It's official - we've seen a bear! BUT the elusive mounties are no where to be found.

It was raining yesterday morning and we set off on a waterfall hike - 12km up over the hills and up to the inkpots. We walked through dense forest areas and the canadians were walking with their bear bells ringing - these are like christmas sleigh bells so the bears can hear you coming. The only thing we saw was a squirrel. Then .... about 25m from the car park ... we saw a black bear on the other side of the river having a little drink .... WOW... by the time I'd found my camera it had gone.

Then as we drove back to Banff there were Elk in the road. They just moved a bit to the side and they weren't at all phased by us. I got some snaps from the side of the car.

We went in the hot springs in the basement of the hotel to help the old muscles recover before walking into Banff for Bison steak and canadian beer.

Thanks for all your messages. Glad to hear Jo is still OK and having a fab time. Not long till your holiday Bex & Smithies ..... heeeeeeeeeee.

I've put more pictures on - but they're a bit blurred - alcohol withdrawal shakes!

Love

Karen & Andy