I haven't been on this forum for sometime, but had to reply to this. I had sent you an email earlier to-day to see what your plans are. I hope you consider flying, Ed, but please don't leave it until Saturday morning in case there is a storm and flights are delayed.

I've flown to Calgary quite a few times but never directly to Edmonton.

I also was the lone driver from Calgary to London when we moved back and had to come the north route, completley in Canada all the way. It sure added to the miles. We came around by Hamilton in order to do some visiting there. And it wasn't winter!!!!

I bet the kids want you to fly. You might as well spend the money Ed, as they will spend it when you are gone. In the long run, if you have car problems, it could end up costing you much more than the flight will. Should be some good seat sales if you shop around.

I made a round trip on the bus one time and enjoyed that as I was able to sleep with no problem but it is a long ride, particularily if your back is bothering you.

I watched you go across the parking lot one Sunday recently and wished I could do as well. What speed for an old guy. I won't use the descriuptive word you often do). I'm jealous of your agility!!!

If I were younger and had the finances, I would love to spend every solitary summer in Jasper Provincial Park
Let us know what you decide

As far as efficiency of fuel use, I'm not so sure I agree. Prorate the fuel of the plane vs the fuel to drive, keep in mind the plane will probably travel a shorter distance than the car will since you're dodging Great Lakes and subject to various roads. The trip is about 1640 mi. as the buzzard flies and yes the plane probably will take a little less than direct route but let's leave it at that for now. Driving via Duluth/Grand Forks is 1978 mi. (according to Streets & Trips), and assuming no detours or anything that's a best scenario. Going via Duluth/Fargo shows 2021 miles. Often winds up being longer.

I'd sure like to see you Ed, but I think you're better off to fly. Now that doesn't mean you couldn't get a flight with a stop or two along the way! Or each way.

I'm quite a bit south of there, yes, but might just be willing to make a drive to meet somewhere. I haven't had a vacation in a while. I wouldn't mind picking some other(s) up too in that event. Kind of depends on timing. Probably have to work around some therapy sessions but those could be rearranged too and I'm only going in every other day now so it's possible. And a lot depends on what route you'd take. The Fargo route shows going through Brainerd which wouldn't be too bad a trip for me to catch you there. Although I wouldn't mind catching up with you in Duluth or Grand Rapids. Or somewhere else.

But I'm still going to suggest flying... You could pick up feathers, form some cardboard wings and flap your arms for 1700 miles! :D Well, maybe not.

take the plane-never mind the fuel efficiencies....just get there and enjoy yourself

Ed, my home is always open to you, anytime, anywhere, for any reason.

I would love for you to visit again, but for your sake, I hope you fly. Ed, you've been very conservative all you life. You have given, and given, and given. It's time to spend a little coin on yourself. Fly, be safe, and live even longer, to help even more, in the future.

Anyway, I've sent you an email with my address and phone number.

I am about 15 miles from the Grand Forks International Airport (LOL; it flys to Canada, so it's 'international'.) so if you were to be stranded; I could get you to the airport.

I'm about 115 miles from the Fargo Airport, and it would be no problem at all to take you there, either.

We don't have snow right now, but this is a weird weather year. We could get snow, and lots of it, at any time. On the other hand, ND is great with snow removal and keeping the roads dry and clear.

Let me know!

Think about this Ed.

If you fly, you won't be adding more pollution, as the plane is going to fly anyway, whether you are on it or not.

The 4000 mile round trip drive that you would have by car would go a long way for local driving and your car would last you that much longer as well. Do you remember the expense you had when you went to Toronto awhile back and your car caused some very expensive problems and you were only one and a half or two hour drive from home.

I'm thinking of your back problem as well, and what about the concerns with your heart?

However you decide to go, I hope you have a wonderful time and tell us all about it.

Sorry I can't help at this time. We are close to the border, but no busses or trains in the area to Canada. Not even sure about the airport in Minot. Storm coming Wed but because of hubby's health don't get on the roads much during the winter.
Hope you do have a good trip it you go and stay safe.
Marie