Our journey continues at a relentless pace. I think Sam feels like a prisoner of the highway. We are beginning to see a bit of wildlife, but the temperatures are still high, leaving most critters to find shelter in the high country.

Our timing is off because of the fires. While we had planned to camp in one place, we have had to change course to stay ahead or drive around road closures. Our 50th anniversary celebration was at an unfamiliar and not-so-inviting camp. It was, however, cool enough for flannel shirts!  I fixed my newest recipe, freeze-dried beef stroganoff with an instant gravy. It was surprisingly tasty and paired nicely with a boxed white wine. I know… we’re crazy!

We woke Monday morning, expecting to make the Canadian border in Nighthawk within the hour. Unfortunately, we were detoured around a road closure that cost us three hours. Thankfully, the border crossing was smooth and easy. 

We planned to drive straight up Highway 97 to the Cassiar Highway, but a road sign warned that the highway was closed at Clinton because of the Pear Lake fire (which was completely uncontained and had caused all 650 residents to evacuate. Bless them all.) The detour cost us almost an entire extra day of traveling around the fire. 

Finally, this evening (July 30), we have arrived at the beginning of the Cassiar Highway. In many ways, this is the beginning of our “honeymoon” for our anniversary journey. 

The Cassiar is one of our favorite roads, filled with beautiful lakes, views, and wildlife. We have already seen one small black bear, although I was unable to take a photo. There are no wildfires in the area, so we should have smooth sailing. Can’t wait to see what’s next!