Banff-tastic!

A few short days after returning from Seattle and being with new friends, I was lucky enough to welcome old friends into our home!  Betsy and Marc came to visit from Wednesday, August 28th through Sunday, September 1.  I picked them up from the airport late on Wednesday evening.  Lots of celebration once we made it home...happy birthday to Marc and happy engagement!  Champagne, cupcakes, Starbucks mug exchanges, and lots of catching up and laughing.  So glad they are here!!

 

We had important business to attend to on Thursday morning.  Marc is planning to wear a kilt for the wedding, and who knew there is a traditional Scottish Shoppe selling kilts right near COP?!  A little trial and error finding the place, but we made it, and there was much success!!  Kilt is ordered, and we summited Rock Mountain as well. :) After all that work, we headed to the Farmer's Market for lunch and goodies.  Back home for some sprinkler fun and relaxing in the warm Calgary sun.

 

Betsy and Marc explored Calgary on Friday...Stephen Avenue Walk, Glenbow Museum, Calgary Tower, and more.  A babysitter came to spend time with Ben and Nathalie that evening so the four adults could enjoy some Alberta beef (or fish) at Saltlik.  Yum! 

Up early on Saturday morning to play tour guide in Banff!  Greg and the kids stayed in Calgary so we could explore a little faster and on our guest's schedule instead of a 3 year old's.  :)  The Gondola was first and amazing, as always.  Got to see some wildlife this time...mountain goats!

Next stop was Bow Falls.  Still beautiful...

Moved along to Banff Spring Hotel.  We explored a few shops, and Betsy and Marc were able to find a piece of art to bring home. 

Lunch at The Bear Street Tavern.  Yummy drink, yummy food!  Took a picture of the Aon jersey on the wall for Greg.  Ha!

 

After all that food, it was time to stroll a bit in downtown Banff.  It was a gorgeous afternoon!  A little shopping at Roots, and then it was time for a Starbucks stop before heading home.  Marc's review was that Banff was "Banff-tastic"!  I TOTALLY agree.  :)

Betsy and Marc were so creative and thoughtful at Christmas to get us a gift card to the Pannenkoek Haus in Calgary.  So, on Sunday morning, we enjoyed some pancakes before they flew out that afternoon.  It was so sad seeing them go, but we are definitely looking forward to celebrating with the Mr. and Mrs. in Chicago next July!  Thanks again so much for coming to visit, Betsy and Marc!  We love making memories with you!