The Charm

Northern Montana is, ultimately, kind of a boring place to ride through. Outside Great Falls the prairie stretches all the way to Alberta, with barely more than a hill to break the monotony. The morning broke grey and somber. I saw a mountain lion, but it broke my heart when I caught sight of its tawny form. It had been hit sometime in the night, and lay in a ruin on the shoulder.

Time doesn't mean much on a long rides, even more so the farther north we get. Minutes and hours are replaced with tanks of gas. It was a four tank day today, which was easier than yesterday's grand tour.

I've never been to our northern neighbor, but crossing the border into Canada was easy enough. Easiest customs I've ever gone through, the line was longer than the interview. The suit at the window was peasant, and chatty. "How's the economy down there?" "Is Oklahoma a native reservation?" Bad and no, but thanks for asking!

Alberta continued the rolling fields, although the prairie gave way to farmland as we continued north. Some of the culture in Alberta reminds me of home. It feels a little like the Bible Belt and the people here seem damn proud to live in the province. Across from every Walmart is a "100% Real Canadian" big box store, which is both precious and a little defensive.

Also! I was happy to see the "Devils Coulee Dinosaur Heritage Museum" on our route. It's so nice to see a government inclusive-enough to include it's scalier citizens.

Good food though, Yakisoba for lunch in Lethbridge, where all women wear slip-on shoes, and Buffalo Wings in Edmonton for dinner!

We drove through rain several times, but by now that's become old hat. Here's to you, Canada! Hopefully your terrain will be a little exciting tomorrow.