Family time in EDMONTON and CALGARY

So, not gonna lie, the forecast has dampened our spirits at times. We were prepared for poor weather, but we didn't anticipate continuous weeks of relentless rain well into July. From Kentucky - Alleyne Provincial Park to Jasper National Park, we have encountered rain almost on a daily basis since leaving Vancouver on our road trip across Canada. Long time Albertans keep reminding us how unusual this is. The upside is that there has been no fire ban to speak of and we have had campfires almost on a nightly basis. Fire, by the way, has at times been an absolute necessity, and not just a means to roast marshmallows. There is nothing more mesmerizing than caveman TV to entertain us on chilly nights.

Cold and wet camping has made us crave for comfort, so a few nights in Edmonton and Calgary was just the break we needed. And what a lovely time we had spending it with family! Since selling our house and leaving Vancouver, it was the first time we felt at "home" thanks to wonderful company and hospitality.

The family reunited!

We got to stay in this trailer in the backyard! 5 star glamping!

We spent one full day in Galaxyland, the indoor amusement park in West Edmonton Mall. Except for a few popular rides, line-ups were almost non-existent on a Monday. The one thing we were slightly peeved about was the fact that Owen, 5 years old, had to pay full price ($49, same as an adult) based on his height (43 inches or taller), even though he was still not tall enough to ride on more than half the rides, including the bumper cars. Other than that, the kids of course LOVED it, and we parents took turns on the MINDBENDER, the world's largest indoor triple loop rollercoaster.

We also checked out the Edmonton StreetFest, the International Street Performers Festival. The shows were full of laughs and crazy stunts and the kids were amazed. Shout-outs to Her Majesty's Secret Circus. (Photo below), and Pogo Fred. (Video below).

In Calgary, we stumbled upon another street event called "Fiestaval". There was live latin music, salsa dancing, and food trucks selling everything from churros, pupusas, arepas and empanadas. Yum.

The main library in Calgary was also a worthy stop. Not only is it architecturally stunning inside and out, they also have an amazing children's section with a play area and lots of interactive toys.

We really enjoyed wandering around lively downtown Calgary, with its' large pedestrian walkways, brick heritage buildings, eclectic shops and cool public art.

Hanging out in the city was a welcomed change after spending weeks in the wet woods of the Canadian Rockies. We only got a little glimpse of both cities, but totally look forward to exploring Calgary and Edmonton more in-depth in the future as we hope to visit family again soon!

NEXT STOP: Grasslands National Park and Moose Mountain Provincial Park, SASKATCHEWAN