Where All the Money Went...

Play day at the Edmonton Mall. Did I mention that "playing" in Canada isn't cheap? The exchange rate when we crossed the border was $1.055 Canadian to $1 American. For those of you that have ever been north of the border, you know that's not the greatest exchange rate. On our first trip to Canada back in the early 90's with Jack and Linda C., the exchange rate was nearly $1.45. At any rate, our day was a great break from traveling. We started out with a morning skate, noted above with a couple of "friends" who momentarily joined us for a photo op. After lunch, we ventured to the indoor water park, home of the world's largest indoor wave pool. The park itself is approximately five acres in size, and again, that's indoors! Needless to say, after skating and the water park the kids were pretty well tuckered. We quickly took advantage of the food court nearby where I particularly enjoyed the uniquely Canadian treat of poutine fries. Poutine fries are french fries with cheese (mozzarella or provolone I think) and gravy poured over them. They are divine and the real Canadian flair is adding vinegar over the whole thing. If you've never had them, they are a real treat. Just for fun, ask to have your fries poutine the next time you order at your restaurant of choice!

Well, the kids are in bed, the laundry is now done and folded, and tomorrow begins another day of our northward journey. We'll be traveling from Edmonton to Dawson Creek, British Columbia, where the ALCAN (Alaska-Canadian) Highway truly begins. After tomorrow's journey, the drive, particularly the roads, will become a bit more challenging, but more visually engaging as well. More from "Mile Zero," where the ALCAN and the next journey begins.

Blessings to all.

Goodnight from Edmonton,

The Lee Family