Dec 12th

Lucky day according to some beliefs -- 12-12-12.  It was for us as things seemed to be better this morning; so we elected to continue our southward journey.  Left Edmonton around 10AM and although it was colder [minus 18], the roads were not too bad for winter conditions.  Some icy spots and a bit of snow in places.  Around the Edm airport a semi had lost it's load, so the highway was bumper to bumper, just crawling along.  After we got south of Leduc, the highway was dry and bare most of the way to Calgary.  Approx at Airdrie we hit snow and the roads were a little tricky unless you had skates on, LOL.  Made it through cowtown just after noon and stopped in Okotoks for lunch.  The snow stayed with us right until the border with the passing lane & shoulder pretty slick, but still able to hold 110 in the driving lane .  Just after lunch Marg drove until we stopped for a coffee in Lethbridge.  A quick stop at the duty free for scotch & then the quickest border crossing we have ever had.  One vehicle at the booth & as we drove up it left, so we pretty much drove right to it.  Two questions, the last of which was have either of you been in jail and we were on the road.  I think that was mainly for Marg's benefit.  It was amazing, as soon as we crossed the border, the roads were dry and clear.  Maybe they have a snow removal trick or secret in Montana, that operators in Alberta should know.  I think it might be something like blade down or spreader on. The weather probably helps too, it was about minus 4C in Shelby & close to zero when we stopped.  Anyway made it to Great Falls where will spend the night at the Crystal Inn.