Shopping, Skating, and Slurping Pho

After a full week of camp activities and nonstop energy, today felt like a well-deserved break, though it was still packed with fun.

We kicked things off at CrossIron Mills, one of the biggest malls in Alberta. From the moment we walked in, it was all about the hunt for the best deals and coolest finds. Some of us headed straight to Nike and Adidas for sports gear, while others explored Urban Planet, Uniqlo, and the massive Bass Pro Shops. Whether you were trying on sneakers, looking for the perfect hoodie, or just strolling through the themed sections, there was something for everyone. A few people even got matching friendship rings.

After loading up on shopping bags, we laced up our skates and hit the rollerblading rink. The switch from mall to wheels gave the day a whole new vibe. Some were naturals, cruising around the rink with ease, while others had a few wobbly moments and lots of laughs. We played music, took turns racing, and even had a mini limbo contest on skates.

All that movement worked up a serious appetite, so we ended the day at a cozy Vietnamese restaurant nearby. Nothing hits better after shopping and skating than a hot bowl of pho. The rich broth, tender slices of beef or chicken, and fresh herbs brought the table to a quiet hush since everyone was too busy slurping to talk. For those who hadn’t tried pho before, it was a total win.

By the time we headed back, everyone was full, tired, and smiling. A day that started with shopping bags ended with noodle bowls, the perfect mix of activity, relaxation, and good food.