Our border crossing was a little odd.

“Passports please.”   “You, in the passenger seat, lean forward so that I can see you when I ask questions.”  A bit brusk but, ok.

Do you have any alcohol?

Do you have any weapons?  Guns, bow knives, switchblades, …..about 10 types of knives I never heard of.  Pepper spray?  It was an oddly long list but hey, whatever.

Then the strange part.

“How long do you plan to be in Canada?”  30 days, we are heading to Alaska.  “Where did you hear that it will take 30 days to get across Canada?”   Uh, we are camping and sightseeing along the way.   “SO, it doesn’t take 30 days to get across Canada.  You are choosing to take 30 days.”  Yes.  “Where are you camping?” Lethbridge. “Then where?” Banff.  “Where else?”  She wanted to know our entire itinerary.  It felt a bit like an inquisition with the lasting impression being, yes, you can pass through but keep it moving.

She never asked any of the anticipated questions based on our pervious crossings:  Is there any one else in the motorhome besides the two of you?  Do you have pets?  Do you have fresh produce or plants?

I’m glad it is over with for now and hope we get more amiable border agents on our future crossings. I guess it isn’t their job to be nice; but, they are a sort of ambassador for those of us who enter to vacation and appreciate and enjoy their country.