The last hurrah

 Michelle has always had this thing that summer isn't summer until you get to a lake, all together, as a family. And I have to say I agree, there is something about water that simply soothes the soul. I prefer fresh water, but I'm not picky.

 This year, as we all know, was a hot one. Hot and dry. I was so thankful that we went through the trouble(and expense) for a good A/C unit. Although she was hot going through Saskatchewan (32C) we were comfy in the bus as we started to head west from the wedding towards the Deloraine Resort and Spa(Michelle's home town).

 What is this you ask?

This is a picture of peace of mind.

WTF?? Ok, OK. Up until now the "security" for Fillmore has been the spring latch for the main door. Which is a bit of a trick to engage from the outside, and then as easy as pulling a release ring from the outside to 'unlock' the door and gain access. Needless to say it has always left a little trepidation when we lock up and leave the bus unattended, especially now that we are using it as a home base with all our accoutrements. The passenger door to the bus has always had a deadbolt installed, but I never had a key. So one morning as I sat having coffee I emailed a query to a small locksmith outfit in Brandon MB called Sargent Lock and Safe. They said bring it down and we'll see what we can do! Within 20 min I was done and pulling up to a Timmies for some driver fuel for the drive back to Deloraine. These boys were awesome!.....Aaannd now I can throw the dead bolt and feel a little better about leaving my 8 track collection of Disco Dance tunes unattended, and speaking of the golden years...

There is never a dull moment in Deloraine, intended or otherwise. We decided a swim day up at  Lake William. And Grandma, being the loving kind soul she is brought wet suits for the kids.....from the 80's and that was a fun time to see the kids squeeze into them and have a swim in vintage wet wear!
After busting the hot water tank in Deloraine, it was time we continued our trek and head west towards home. With no set plan we made it up on the way and ecided the last hurrah should be a family camping trip with Fillmore in south western Alberta

 With as number of highway transport trips under our belt in Fillmore, we quickly came to the realization that this would be the maiden camping trip, and would complete the circle of it's intended design purpose. Exciting!! We lucked out and snagged a beautiful camp spot very close to the water, peace, serenity,AND running water!

 Mornings were cool in the mountains, but staying close and cuddling were the mantra!

 A little walk around in Waterton was lovely....smokey...but lovely




















Michelle was happy to be on the water and have sunrise and sunset paddles, while Jeff and Carson managed to "squeeze out the last little bit of summer"

 After 4 wonderful days we decided to head home and put Fillmore to bed for a much needed rest, after traveling a few thousand kilometers (over 3400 this trip) he deserved to have a little down time.