Waterton

Waterton Lakes National Park is the Canadian extension of Glacier National Park. The rugged, yet beautiful Rocky Mountains continued to surround us, and many crystal clear lakes, streams, and waterfalls were as stunning as ever. We spent two nights there in the peaceful campground of Crandell Lake. Yesterday we enjoyed a “moderate hike” (4.8 miles, roundtrip; elevation gain 1,000’) to picturesque Summit Lake.

Nestled in the valley is the small village of Waterton. Although it is a tourist town, there are no gaudy stores or signs, just charming restaurants and shops. From looking at the license plates of other cars and RV’s, it is a popular vacation spot for Canadians who live in other provinces.

With all that said, I couldn’t wait to leave! This is not my vacation; this is my way of life for a couple of months, and….I…need… mental stimulation! I need a newspaper or a Time magazine! I want to be able to use my iPhone! I need a crossword puzzle or play Words with Friends with my sister!! I wanted to talk to my daughter yesterday on her birthday! Even television reception would be nice.

Apparently Verizon doesn’t service Glacier or Waterton, and delivery of newspapers and magazines is non-existent due to the remote areas. Bill, sensing my displeasure (I tried to hide it from him, really, I did!), decided we could cut our visit to Waterton short and head to Banff. On the way to Banff, there is a real city, Calgary! Yeah! Right now, I’m in a Starbucks (first one I’ve seen in 3 weeks) happily online! After I post this blog entry, I am going to search for and purchase every newspaper and magazine I can find. It’s the little things…