Back in the USA

After our humongous hike to Crypt Lake last Wednesday, we spent a much quieter day on Thursday taking a scenic drive through Montana’s Glacier National Park. Since Waterton and Glacier are collectively known as International Peace Park’s and connect on
either side of the border, we were not surprised to find the scenery on the US side comparatively staggering. Since we all had sore legs, the leisurely drive also provided the chance for a much needed rest. Although he was a little camera shy and rushed away quite quickly, we were all pleased to find a mountain goat grazing at the top of one of the mountain passes and marvelled at how well his white coat blended into the snow.

On Friday morning, we left Waterton and since have been slowly travelling East toward home. Although the drive across Montana was lovely, we were surprised that many of the small towns were not as quaint as expected and in addition to being somewhat rundown boasted numerous bars and casinos and did not seem the place for children. As a result we meandered right through and found ourselves in North Dakota by Saturday morning where we spent two days in a lovely little town called Medora. Medora sits right at the base of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and is certainly a hidden gem. During the day, we spent some time touring the national park and were fortunate to see several herds of wild bison and horses grazing in the badlands. In the evenings, we were treated to Medora hospitality taking in the unusual pitchfork steak fondue and the lively Medora Musical. Both were really fun!

On Monday, we completed another long drive East landing in Bloomington, Minnesota on Tuesday morning. We have spent the past few days shopping at the Mall of America and have enjoyed preparing for our return to school and work in September. Since both boys have been the lucky recipients of clothing hand-me-downs since they were little and have rarely had to purchase a lot of clothes, the chance to go on a true shopping spree was a new experience. Riley was clearly born to shop and had no trouble finding a mountain of things that he needed. Braedon, on the other hand, was a little more reserved and took awhile to warm up to the process. Since I have been off for almost 14 months, and Shawn almost 6, we took the opportunity to purchase some work clothes as well and will certainly have lots to declare as we cross the border!

Today, we are simply hanging out at the lovely little RV park taking advantage of the pool and games room. Tomorrow morning, we will load up and head toward Illinois State Beach near Chicago where we plan to visit a Renaissance Fair in Wisconsin and a Six Flags Theme Park as well. It should be a fun couple of days!

Tammy