Internet access is catch as catch can around here. The main lodge has wireless but they are still in the process of installing it in the cabins. To save time I’ll likely end up writing in the room and then heading into the lodge to post.

Jasper is definitely different at the tail end of winter. I’ve been here a few times in the summer and it was crawling with tourists. With Marmot basin being so close I’d expect to see more businesses open in town. Many of the coffeeshops and restaurants are closed for the season. I guess Jasper is Banff and Whistler’s poor relation. On the other hand it’s really nice to be able to stroll around town and NOT bump into people with every step.

Drew’s cancelled vacation has been “un-callenced”. We received a call from Drew’s work notifying us that he could stay on leave until Wednesday (as per the original plan) approximately 15 minutes after we checked into the hotel and made arrangements to let go of the extra days on our room. Luckily we were able to get the days back and have managed to piece together a vacation similar to the one we’d had planned.

Since this whole vacation is a belated Christmas present – booked long before Christmas and delivered via IOU under the tree – for Drew I’ve left most of the decision making about what we’re doing up to him. I did veto the idea of a trip to Marmot basin for skiing since Drew has never been on downhill skiis before. We can try that sometime when he’s not on notice for a tour and can afford to risk breaking a bone (or six).

In the meantime, we’re scoping out the brochures for dog sled rides, the mountain train trip, Maligne Canyon walks, wildlife spotting hikes, snowshoeing (which I’ve never done before, but Drew has many times), Columbia Icefield hikes, etc. Dependign on what Drew chooses the budget may only cover one or two activities. I’ll fill you in on what we decide to do – and how it went – as soon as I find out myself!

As for pictures – we brought a small digital camera with us but Drew didn’t bring his big manual one. Photography could be interesting this weekend if I’m to take pictures. I’m not very skilled. However, I’m sure I’ll find a few suitable for posting.

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