Back to Astotin campground just in time for SweetPea’s surgery (spay, gastropexy) in Edmonton. She can’t wait. We are hoping that during the surgery the Vet can also do an evil-ectomy. SweetPea is now in her teens and can be an absolute terror at times. Occasionally she is sweet, so we haven’t kicked her out yet, but there are times…
On the drive south from Fort McMurray the skies became so dark the truck headlights came on. There was so much smoke from area forest fires that we couldn’t see more than a kilometre away. We weren’t sure if we should continue or head back. No fire was visible so we slowed down and crawled along for an hour or so. Eventually the smoke thinned out, so we continued on with much relief.
A much nicer campsite this time (we picked it out the last time we were here). Had a couple of really hot sunny days (low 30’s celcius), so the screen tent and solar panels were put to good use (no electricity in these campsites).
When we were here a week ago, there was nary a Bison or beaver in site. This time we couldn’t turn around without seeing a Bison. They were everywhere! Including on the roads; we had to stop several times to let them mosey out of the way.
The beach area near the campground was very quiet the first time we were here. This time we arrived on a weekend and the place was packed! There were even food trucks in the parking lot.
Some amazing sunsets looking out from the beach.
SweetPea’s surgery went very well. We are staying around for a couple of days just in case we need to dash back to the Vet.
Apparently the Vet forgot the evil-ectomy because as SweetPea recuperates the teenage rotter is reappearing. Sigh.
SweetPea is a high energy dog, not quite as high as a Jack Russel Terrorist, but close. The Vet told us that she must remain quiet, not even any walks, for 10-14 days. I think we need more drugs (either for her or us) to get us through the next couple of weeks.
Trip Summary:
Depart: Gregoire Lake Provincial Park, Alberta 10:15 am June 4; Odometer: 227696 km
Arrive: Elk Island National Park (Astotin Lake Campground), Alberta 3:00 pm June 4; Odometer: 228078 km
Gas Summary:
Grassland, AB (June 4): 102.0 l @ $1.35/l (CAD$137.61) – ODO 227939
Sherwood Park, AB (June 6): 63.5 l @ $1.44/l (CAD$91.40) – ODO 228293