Saturday Morning, Marie-Josée invited us at her home for breakfast. She prepared a regal feast on a superb table setting. In a joyous atmosphere, we shared our meal one more time.
For their last day at the Havre, our adventurers were treated to a surprise. Pierre and Mireille, friends of Marie-Josée, offered to take us on their catamaran for a ride on the sea. We passed Île du Havre where we spent the first two nights before heading for the open sea for a further exploration of the territory. With the wind blowing in the sails, lying in the netting, this excursion was a wonderful relaxation.
For the last evening, Jeff and Héléna organized an evening around the campfire. As we did midway through the expedition, each of us was asked to describe in one word his or her experience. This was a precious moment of sharing. The generosity expressed by everyone generated for each of us a feeling of exceptional well-being and filled us with energy. These words described for each person what they gained from this experience. You won’t be surprised to learn that I chose the word “Paradise”… Because of the beauty of the site and the rich diversity of the place, but mostly because time came to a halt, because I met exceptional people, because I had a unique experience and because of the many small joys that reminded me of the essence of life. For eleven days, we lived ‘in the present’ away from our usual daily routine. Each one of us will return to this paradise. When times are difficult, this is where we will find strength and inspiration and also the simple pleasure of seeing those smiles again.
We returned Sunday, a little sick at heart but above all, happy! In spite of the distance separating us, we now form a close group. Thank you all!
Time to say goodbye. Thank you for accompanying us on this expedition. I hope you will join us again for the next one…
This is the last morning of the expedition part of our fabulous eight-day epic in the Mingan Archipelago. The seals are singing in the distance. The sun shines brightly and the sea is very calm. We will head for the Havre in peace. We’re all rather slow; our bodies feel the weight of the expedition… It is difficult to leave Paradise!
Kayaks together, we paddle slowly to enjoy our last moments at sea. Exceptional colours, a soft sea breeze and many beautiful birds of different species are with us all the way. We make a last short stop at Île du Havre, our home base island.
As we near the Havre, we sense the end of our adventure. We make a “raft” of our kayaks and we hold hands. Héléna invites us to use these last moments to relive our best memories, take in the images of the wilderness, and fully appropriate our adventure. Everybody applauds, as we are happy and fulfilled by this unique experience. Together, we faced the challenge of this eight-day trip in total autonomy, and we did it with a smile on our face! Congratulations gang! You are heroes and you have carved a special place in my heart.
We paddle past the wharf of the Havre. Sylvie and hospital employees are there to greet us. They congratulate us, as they know what we have just been through. We are in frenzy. One last rallying cry and we bring everything back to Agaguk’s!
After a well-deserved shower, we return to the Inn, our home for the next two days. Whatever is wet, which is pretty much everything, is put to dry. Éric has made a delicious couscous, which we enjoy together around the same table where, eight days ago, we had our breakfast before leaving the Inn on our expedition.
Finally, it’s guitar time, and we hold a group sing-along on the beach with Jeff. We will use the next two days to “unwind” before returning to reality. We make good use of every moment, before going our separate ways.
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During the eight days of this expedition, we saw it all: rain and fair weather, high and low tide, easterly and westerly winds! Today, we have the wind at our backs to get to our last campsite. A welcome situation as we undertake the return trip, the expedition part of our adventure now coming to an end. We have a long way to go, nearly twenty kilometres. While we are not retracing our steps exactly, we will paddle by each island where we slept before reaching Pointe aux morts, on dry land.
It was quite an experience to have the wind at our backs. Paddling, we raced over the water, what a feeling. Indeed, we were flying! We were comfortable despite the size of the waves. To give you an idea, at times we lost sight of the kayak in front of us for a brief moment before it reappeared on top of the next wave. With our tandem kayaks, it was easy to sail under such conditions and the teenagers enjoyed it. They did sing each day, but today there was a special kind of energy, probably because of the wind coming in from the sea.
Safely at destination, everyone got busy. A now familiar routine, the campsite was up in a flash, instructions are no longer necessary, well nearly! Today, we had the best hot dogs and hamburgers in the whole world. Might as well tell you, everything tastes better outdoors. The wind has died down and we spent a wonderful evening, our last, around the campfire. We knew, without saying it, that this was our last evening together, in isolation and away from civilization. There was a bit of nostalgia in the air, but I believe everyone knew that these memories would be with us forever.
Today was a superb day. As our own Alex-Anne said: “It was like the roller-coaster at La Ronde, without the queues.”
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This is the coldest morning of our expedition so far. The wind came up during the night and it continues to blow. We woke up with the wind in our face but we’re comfy and warm in our down jackets. To make things better, Éric lights a fire and we’re invited to warm up in the shelter. During an expedition even the colder mornings are good.
There is a lot of excitement this morning. As usual, we prepare the fruit and hot beverages but today we also blow up balloons, and we’re in a festive mood. This is a special day. This is Nathan’s birthday. O, to turn sixteen in the Mingan Archipelago! Being shy by nature, he seems a little embarrassed as he opens the door and hears his new friends sing “Happy Birthday to You”. His smile says it all… I bet he’ll never forget his sixteenth birthday.
The wind maintains its force. Jacynthe and Éric listen to the maritime weather bulletin. We decide to wait awhile to see if the wind will calm down. We have only a short distance to go, but safety is our priority. As Alex-Ann said so well: “Just turn the kayaks towards the sea and the wind will die down.” There is an opening and we do not have far to go. So we start and head for Grande Île. In record time, we get to our camping site. We all warm up in front of the fire Rino lit before our arrival. Today our group was in a festive mood. Héléna and Jeff had taken care of the candles and the birthday cake. Once more, we’ll go to bed proud of our achievements.
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Even with a rather short distance to go today, we unanimously decided to spend another night on Quarry Island. After the last two days of crossing, a moment of rest, of relaxation and of drying out is welcome. Prevailing winds force us to stay on Quarry Island. A perfect day for Loup-Garou!
Everybody seems happy. This was a slow moving day. While some took advantage of the sun and a small cascade to freshen up, some flew kites, while others made necklaces. Before lunch, Marie-Josée lead a short yoga session, to everyone’s pleasure. What a beautiful picture as they do the moves, in full concentration, on the porch facing the sea. I would even say it’s magical. As you can see, it was a very busy day even without going a long distance.
To close the day, Héléna and Jeff suggest we spend the evening around a campfire talking about the experience we’re living: how we got here, what we liked until now, and what are our wishes for the coming days… This is a private moment for our group. It is one of the high points of the expedition and we will go to sleep having found this particular thing we came looking for. This is a great group and the team spirit is strong. I have often said this was paradise and today I would like to introduce the sixteen angels who inhabit it for the moment.
There is a cheerful trio of girls. Anne-So, as her friends know her, is rather mischievous and quiet. She listens intently and from time to time she makes brief comments. Her laughter is contagious, her smile radiant! Sara is spontaneous and rather naïve. Her attitude often reminds us that it is important to live in the present. Alex-Ann is the unifier and dynamic element. She often launches the singing by raising her paddle.
Now the boys: Paul, our resident comedian and Loup-Garou host, has an overactive imagination. Brendan has a good sense of humour. He is rather sensitive and open to others. He likes to talk to everybody, guys or girls. Nathan is a little shy but he is always ready to paddle, to laugh and have fun. He is opening up. Finally, Julien is our artist. He loves to draw and will end up an architect or comic strip designer!
The Agaguk Guides: Éric and Jacynthe are on the sea with us while Rino stays in the background to make sure we are safe. They are pros, cooks and interpreters of nature and each of them contributes to the tone of our expedition while allowing us to sail with our mind at rest. The Medics: Kim, Christine and Marie-Josée watch over our physical and social health and are full-fledged members of our group.
Team ‘On the Tip of the Toes’: My colleagues Héléna and Jeff. I’m so proud of them. They are simply beautiful to watch. I am impressed by their professionalism. It is a privilege both to work with them at the office and to be with them in this expedition.
And then, there is little old me hoping to properly convey to you the atmosphere of this wonderful adventure. Henceforth, we are a solid group: the Mingan 2008 Tip of the Toes Foundation group. This experience and these encounters will be with us for the rest of our lives.
We’re all in the same boat, even if it’s a sea kayak
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Brendan seems satisfied with his experience in the rain yesterday. This morning, we awake to a bright, sunny day. The early risers even saw a tern “fishing derby” at sun up. Quite a sight, as they dive head first in the water and come out with a fish in their beak.
Another big day ahead for us. Two crossings are planned, but the On the Tip of the Toes adventurers slept well and they are ready! Again this morning, as soon as we awake, we take down the tents, have breakfast and we get ready to sail as early as we can. Our routine is now set: in no time flat the tents are folded. Like true adventurers, each one of us knows what to do!
The sea is rather flat this morning. The further we get away from civilization, the more magical the scenery becomes. It’s been awhile since I’ve said it: “It’s really paradise!” Terns, razor-billed auks and stints come by to say hello and the monoliths are increasingly beautiful and amazing. It’s like paddling in a natural cathedral. Young and not-so-young marvel at the scenery. There is so much to look at, we can’t take it all in.
After paddling awhile, we undertake our first crossing of the day. In preparation, we slip on our windbreakers, our mitts, and, as an energy booster, we add a cereal bar… The crossing is rather quick despite a soft side wind. The incoming tide is helpful. After a short pause on Niapiskau Island, we decide to do the second crossing before lunch. This will lead us to our overnight camping site on Quarry Island and we’ll have the rest of the afternoon to ourselves. We could even take the path across the island to see the monoliths on the South shore. With a song in our hearts, we rapidly get to the island. Éric congratulates us for our steady rhythm. Hooray for our side!
After setting up camp and drying out, we congregate in the shelter for yet another happy and delicious dinner. After a short one-hour nap, we’ll head for the other side of the island, using the pathway in the middle of the island. Before taking off on our walk, Marie-Josée gives our adventurers an initiation to the benefits of Yoga… Tomorrow morning, we’ll repeat the experience!
As we walk along the path, Jacynthe points out some of the secrets of the island’s plants and minerals. The monoliths are simply impressive! Back around the table, we have the privilege of tasting Éric’s spaghetti sauce, a family recipe, and some garlic butter and cheese croutons
Have I told you this is paradise?
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Yesterday, for fear of dehydration, we all played the game: “I Drink Water, Do You?” The end result obviously was that everybody got up at least once during the night to pee! Brendan’s wish became reality as it rained during the night and we woke up to a fine drizzle. Adventurous and curious by nature, Brendan wanted to experience a full day kayaking in the rain. He got his wish! Nevertheless, in no way was the morale of the group affected! On the contrary, the day started with an early wake-up call requested by Éric and Jacynthe, followed by a quick breakfast and an extremely efficient take down of the tents. The idea was to get going as early as possible as this was to be a long day.
We headed for the open sea under a clouded sky, which did not dampen the superb smiles and the steadfast determination to go a little further in our exploration. Today, everything is Brendan’s fault, even the disappearance of the clouds followed by the return of the sun. We paddled around the île du Havre and as we came to the point we were met by a westerly headwind. This meant constant paddling to make sure we were making headway and not backing up. The sun was a welcome presence for this first important crossing. This was a challenge for all. For the first time since our departure, the wind forced us to give it our best.
For miles around you could hear them sing the house version of the well-known (French) Christmas song “Vive le vent, vive le vent, vive le vent de la mer”. (TRANSLATOR’S NOTE: This a the French version of “Jingle Bells” where the lyrics of the first verse were changed to “ROWING through the WIND”.) The joyous song energized us and is now part of the famous memories collection of the Foundation. Sure enough, some of us, adults and teenagers alike, were a little discouraged, but you can imagine how proud we were when we got to our destination! Our guides, Éric and Jacynthe praise us. This was a real strong and constant wind. Hooray for our gang!
During the afternoon, while part of the group slumbered in the sun and wind, Jeff and Héléna invited us to play our first game of Loup-Garou. Interrupted by a small shower, the game ended at suppertime. Before the meal as an appetizer, we took a walk to the end of the island.
Brendan was right; sea kayaking in the rain can be enjoyable. It was a busy yet beautiful day. We’re proud of our efforts today and we’ll sleep well.
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I know, I’ve said it already, but this is truly paradise. After a hard day, we decided to let the group sleep in. They need to replenish their energy before continuing their exploration of the islands. Gently, they wake up, have breakfast and use this free time to take in the scenery. We’re now on expedition time, i.e. time is not the same anymore, it does not exist.
Meeting on the beach with Jeff and Héléna to brief us on the coming days and to sound out the group. We are embarking on an 8-day sea kayaking adventure, cut off from the world, not your average walk in the park. There is no doubt that together we can face this challenge. Already, we’re a closely-knit group and the adventure can only bring us even closer together. Energy is high and the determination palpable!
Who said the water was cold in Mingan? Believe it or not, this morning after breakfast, we went swimming! We even played in the water for a while. Seriously, water temperature aside, this is like a holiday at Club Med. Don’t worry, after lunch we’ll go kayaking. Éric and Jacynthe tell us that swimming is not that frequent in Mingan… Another milestone for the On the Tip of the Toes adventurers!
As they wait for lunch, some hunt for seashells, others take a walk on the shore, others simply take in the scenery while Paul draws in the expedition logbook. After a copious lunch, we’re off on our daily excursion. We sail on a glassy sea. During this first real day of kayaking we discovered a lot: terns, seagulls, black guillemots, sea urchins, starfish, all kinds of algae, and more. Young and old, we all marvel at the beauties of nature. It’s simply wonderful. Wonderful is not strong enough to describe this beauty! To top it all, seeing the kids in this setting is simply marvellous!
All these colours, these smells and this bliss remind us of Bertrand: Happy Birthday, Bertrand! For those who do not know him, Bertrand has often marked his birthday during an expedition of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation where he was the resident certified life child specialist, a full-fledged member of this family.
Tonight, we eat in English. It’s just as much fun! And by the way, don’t worry, nobody will loose weight during our adventure! Tomorrow we’re off for île XXX in another part of the archipelago. Big day ahead, so it’s early to bed tonight.
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Our second day was beautiful, wonderful, and quite busy. Early in the morning, the sun came up and stayed with us all day. Today is the day! The sea kayak expedition has started. The guides of Expédition Agaguk, Éric and Jacynthe, join us. They arrive, all smiles, and cook one of those delicious omelettes for us to share.
This is paradise! Some in groups, others by themselves, they take in the scenery, play with Rosie (the Auberge dog), or daydream on the rocks. After a first application of sunscreen, we pick up our stuff and head for the headquarters of Expédition Agaguk, our departure site.
The day is still young and we have much to do before we leave. Technical details are important to make our sea kayak trip enjoyable for everyone. Most important is the selection of personal effects and to store them in either our day or night bag. Easy? Not really!
A sea kayak is a wonderful craft that gives us a wonderful feeling on the water, but it has limitations, mainly the size of the watertight cargo bins. Jean-François, A.K.A. Jeff, gives us a lively demonstration on how outdoor adventurers dress and pack their stuff. The main objective is to maximize the enjoyment of the trip in the highest degree of comfort, which depends, among other things, on our ability to remain dry for as long as possible! Everything is planned and designed to be relatively easy. Once we got our things together and before putting them in our bags, Héléna and Jeff carry an inspection to make sure that nothing is missing but mostly, that there nothing superfluous… A good decision!
We’re finished packing, but there is still a lot to do. Before continuing, we lunch on a generous fresh shrimp salad.
Now, Éric and Jacinthe brief our adventurers on the first day’s itinerary. Everyone listens carefully, there are some questions, but we can’t wait to get on the water! Once our wet suits are on, we get to the crux of the process: find room for EVERYTHING in the watertight compartments. Every free inch of space is used.
There is still a long way to go. Before we leave, Éric and Jacinthe give us a demonstration of the basics of sea kayaking and we’re finally off to île du Havre. What a sight! They look like real adventurers. Once we hit land, we set up the tents and get ready for the night. They look like busy ants, with broad smiles.
What a beautiful day! What a beautiful and full day! We learned a lot, we experienced many new things. A good night’s sleep is sure to follow. Tomorrow, we go at sea to explore this beautiful setting.
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Be sure to check our new Web site: www.pointedespieds.com
They’re all there! Seven beautiful teenagers, their best smiles and the sunshine! First day, first exchanges for everyone. Good byes to the family, the last hugs, and we’re ready to take off at 2 p.m. A little nervous and very excited, we get acquainted during the waiting time and the flight. AC8716 is now famous, as it is Julien’s first time on an airplane, and we make a stop in Quebec City to drop off some passengers. Two for one time for all! In a few hours, after two takeoffs, two landings, and a few hundred kilometres on a bus, we will reach the river’s edge.
After landing in Sept-Îles, transferring the luggage to the bus, we’re on our way to Havre Saint-Pierre where we will meet with the Expédition Agaguk guides and Marie-Josée. There is happiness in the air already! We’ve been travelling for hours, but we’re by ourselves for the first time, and we’re finally on the North Shore. ”The expedition starts now”, says Héléna! Indeed we’ve just started, but it seems they are long-time friends. On the highway that gives us our first glimpse of the North Shore scenery, they chat and they laugh. Friendships are developing. Jeff and Héléna predict a memorable expedition… Once again.
We will spend our first night at the Auberge de la Minganie in Havre Saint-Pierre, a former fishing camp at the mouth of the Romaine River. There are three picturesque cabins, one for the girls, one for the boys, and one for the adults. Before bedtime, we play games to stretch our legs and memorize everyone’s name. To close the evening, Jeff shows us how to use a sleeping bag. Tomorrow, we will wake up in the fantastic setting, we will tame the sea kayak, and we will navigate to Grosse Île where we will spend the night! Tomorrow, we’re off on our adventure!
The photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
Special Invitation!!! Come see the Foundation’s rejuvenated Web site at : www.pointedespieds.com
As you know, the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation is leaving for an expedition, August 14-24, and we are happy to share with you these privileged moments, these smiles worth a thousand words, and these fantastic sites.
For its second summer expedition, the Foundation offers an exceptional destination to the seven cancer-stricken teenagers who have accepted the challenge. During the next eleven days, we will travel trough the unique setting of the Mingan Archipelago in sea kayaks. Through the ebb and flow, we will discover the unique and varied flora and fauna of this wonderful area. We will paddle around 500 million-year-old monoliths.
You are invited to witness and be the privileged accomplices of our young adventurers as they live through this expedition. The On the Tip of the Toes Foundation, in partnership with Expédition Agaguk, sets up the expedition.
The North Shore
Lined by the majestic St-Lawrence River, the North Shore is a natural paradise for those looking for spectacular vistas. Everything here is out of proportion. One can see immense areas of boreal forest, through which flow colossal rivers en route to their ultimate destination, the St-Lawrence River.
This area of Quebec is the perfect destination for those who seek a feast for their eyes! Each day, we will travel through this rich and diversified natural setting. Our destination, the Mingan Archipelago, is located between the Island of Anticosti and the shores of Havre-Saint-Pierre.
The Mingan Archipelago
Witnesses of ancient times, the islands of the Mingan Archipelago are many and extraordinary. Each has its own history and is home to a diversified fauna and flora. The islands go back to pre-historic times, well before the dinosaurs appeared on earth! These rock formations are estimated to be 500 million years old. This is a fascinating story that you will discover throughout your voyage. The name Mingan originates from the Basque, meaning “sand bar”, probably a reference to the neighbouring sand bar where the village of Longue-Pointe is located today.
The islands are not only an oasis of rocks and sand. Indeed, life is rich in this unusual décor. There are more than 450 species of plants, of varied colours and shapes. One hundred or so of them have been designated “rare and of interest”.
The fauna is just as impressive. The Islands is home to flocks of marine birds, seals, whales and even dolphins! With a little luck, we could see on the horizon a baleen whale, the largest of all mammals? We could also witness the antics of a humpback whale or even a flock of Atlantic puffins. All part of the many things to see, learn and experience!
The Sea Kayak Expedition
The ideal way to explore large bodies of water without disturbing their tranquillity, sea kayaking is easy to learn. The expedition will allow you to become familiar with this wonderful sport. Each day, we will discover “new small wonders” that can only be accessed through this mode of transportation. We will visit monoliths, fossil sites and, if we’re lucky, we might even see those who have been called the guardians of the archipelago, the common seals.
This expedition will undoubtedly allow you to be the privileged spectator of nature’s splendour. It will also be a special opportunity for you to meet other active youths. Many bonds will be born of this voyage, and each day we will grow closer to becoming a strong team, ready to face any and all challenges.
So why not start right now to dream of things to come: the immensity of the river, the fauna, the kayak, the islands and, most of all, the other youths who, as yourself, will share an extraordinary adventure, because they are themselves extraordinary.
The photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
Special Invitation!!! Come see the Foundation’s rejuvenated Web site at : www.pointedespieds.com
A festive day ahead. Balloons and banners decorate the dining room in the main lodge of Domaine de la rivière Mistassini. For sure, this 10th day of July is the last of our expedition. But above all, this 10th day of July is an important rite of passage for Catherine G.who turns 18! In the morning, the whole group gathers around the table early, before she gets there. Lungs at the ready. Here she comes. Loud and clear, the singing breaks out. She is surprised. She is beaming. She sits at the head of the large table, as on a throne, surrounded by balloons and her new friends. Amidst the aroma of toasting bread, there is an odor of true friendship.
Today, we visit the zoo. All aboard for the bus ride. St-Félicien, here we come! A mandatory stop, but most entertaining and enjoyable. We are treated to a multi-sensorial show in the theatre before our visit. We are introduced to the “Boréalie” (Northern territory) in a very realistic way. Snow falls and snakes nibble at our legs. The shouting is louder than at the Rapide du céleri (and its taste of 7-UP). Then, we’re off on the train ride. From our traveling cage, we see a prancing deer, a grazing buffalo, a magnificent moose, a honey of a bear, and prairie dogs. Time flies, we must be on our way.
Packing time before the evening meal. Cath G. gets a birthday card and a necklace. Then a food fight breaks out. Céline learns that it may not be a good idea to serve whipped cream with a birthday cake… Then, as tradition dictates on this last evening, we close the circle. Each participant, adult and young, must summarize the week in a single word. Strength. Blessing. Family. Test. Challenge. Diversity. Paddle. Living. Excitement. Spontaneity. Comfort. Amazement. Honor. Happiness. Privilege. Beauty. Support. Optimism. Astonishment. Serenity. Confidence. Love. Cheeks are wet. Eyes glisten. Hearts race. Arm in arm, the Gang of Nine is now one. Once united by tragedy, they now share this therapeutic adventure. For the rest of their lives. Thank you Mario. Thank you Héléna, JF, Bertrand, Martin, Karine. Thank you Alain, Alain, Céline. Most of all a HUGE THANK YOU to you, our young friends. You have made this one of the most beautiful weeks of my life. This adventure was therapeutic in more ways than one.
Our group of late risers wakes up to JF’s appropriate poetic recitation. « So make the best of this test and don’t ask why. It’s not a question but a lesson learned in time. It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right, I hope you have the time of your life”. The warm night indoors has worked wonders. The kids are fresh as daisies.
Adam is beaming. He can finally wear his jeans. Marie-Claude is declared the winner of the insect-bite contest: fifty-three on her back and twenty-five on her right hand only. The others gave up after that count. Poor Marie-Claude stuck to her convictions: she flatly refused to use insect repellent. I had hoped I would at least win that contest. I used insect repellent only once, half as much as JF, my closest competitor. No doubt, MC has thwarted JC’s efforts ‘bites down’.
This is relaxation and drying day. EVERYTHING is dripping wet after our last day on the river. The tents, the jackets, the sleeping bags, the sleeping pads and other objects are stretched out all over the place. Some of the kids too, a well-deserved rest. Some write in the group journal, others autograph the expedition t-shirts, some busy themselves making new necklaces, others scratch their insect bites while others strum the guitar, some float in the spa or in pure bliss.
After the best lasagna North of St-Leonard, laughter and shouts rise from the foggy river. The kids, comfortably encased in their flotation devices, are drifting down the current. A showing of expedition photos concludes the evening. What a beautiful river that Mistassini, what beautiful people those neo-Mistassins!
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
Yet another morning like any other. Mario did not catch any fish. Well, only a small one. He says a larger one got away. It’s a bluish morning. The smell of bacon is in the air. The birds sing. Friendly smiles. Complicity. The sky must be sad to see our expedition slowly coming to an end. It broke up in tears at breakfast. First, a few sobs followed by steady tears culminating in a full-fledged sob fest. It’s pouring cats and dogs. The tents are folded and soaking wet. So are the kids. Well, maybe not folded, but soaking wet for sure.
It’s raining. The canoes fill with water as we paddle away. We must bail at regular intervals. It’s raining. The consistency of the rain is only matched by the constancy of the flowing river. The rain falls, the river flows, we bail.
We’re making good time. Soon, we’ll reach our midday station. Moral is solid but, technically speaking, we’re in a mess. A tarp is set up and a fire is lit. Our young friends did 14 kilometres in pouring rain, without a single complaint. Unexpectedly they declare this a “High Moment”. Our second potato is unearthed, torn open. An explosion of Kit-kats, Coffee Crisps and Mars bars follows. There are stars in our young friends’ eyes. Fully boosted, they wish to complete the last 19 km during the afternoon. The guides consult each other and decide to go ahead.
It’s raining so much it’s disgusting. We see a huge birch tree – more than 7 meters in diameter. It does not flinch. At 400 years old, that tree has seen quite a few canoes go by. The rain increases, our young friends are full of joy. They can handle this, they’ve been through much more difficult situations. Two more kilometres to go, and Héléna calls for a canoe conference. Let’s paddle the last section in silence, in a nomadic meditation and expectation.
It’s raining. Le Domaine appears on the horizon. Amidst cries of triumph the paddles accelerate. A few more yaws and we’re there. They have met the challenge, the Gang of Nine. Nine accomplished Mistassins full of disconcerting energy. The sky unloads the rain and we unload the canoes. Soon, we’ll be inside the warm cabins. There, Céline greets us. Ah! Comfort and comforting!
During the meal, there is no shortage of discussions. The guides observe that this meal is quite animated. The venue may be the same as the first supper, but this one is so different. During the evening, Corry will salsa with Céline. More than once. On closer examination, doesn’t our friend Corry have the looks of a playboy?
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
For the second time of this trip, it did not rain today. The day before (Sunday, 6th) was a perfect day: fresh fruit, beach, short distance, full blue sky, weather around 30 C, cool breeze. Hum… seems to me there is a bathroom freshener by this name…
Monday is off to a good start. The birds are signing. And as a citrus-flavored bottle of Listerine, the soft breeze gets rid of the morning mosquitoes. The sun is out and Alain is making the pancakes. Our plan is set for the day, our longest so far: 17 kilometers, 5 of which in meanders, where the water flows so slowly, the river seems depressed. Our mid-day meal comes rather early. Just out of the meanders, our young friends say they’re hungry. But, we still have a long way to go. So, we make a strategic choice. We link the canoes and drift down the river while eating our submarine sandwiches on our improvised raft.
A nice, easy way to do a few leagues on the sea. This floating lunch was so nice, we decide to take a nap. Some go at it with more gusto, like Mario who snores away full blast. Our landlubbers are facing a challenge. We’re coming up to a sharp river bend, actually, three of them. Right after that comes the Rapide du croche de la rivière (River Bend Rapids). With the water level so high in the Mistassini today, it is an R-2. Short, but intense. Everyone braces up. We move apart. This requires a lot of effort. Some choose to go around the rapids others go right at them. Either way, we are successful. One short kilometer later, we come to what is called Île-aux-klaxons (Horn Island). Our campsite is visible from the road, and some happy truck drivers honk as they drive by. We’d be happy with some of the wood they’re carrying.
Early in the evening, Mario and JF build a catamaran and go fishing with a few braves. Jenn brings back a beautiful pike and Taryn has let a yellow pike get away. Around the campfire, the others play cards, strum guitars, finish the necklaces and bracelets they started earlier. They’re laughing and they’re having fun. What a beautiful sight!
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
Truly, no one, no one in the world, had a better Sunday. It’s not possible, no. Mario goes as far as saying that he believes this was the best day in an expedition of the history of the Foundation, dating back to 1996. Not too shabby! Let me tell you how it was.
We woke up at Pointe-à-l’orignal (Moose Point) under blue skies, no clouds in sight. Blue as the Belvedere packs my brother in law was smoking back in 1983. Outside the tents, warm breezes, the smell of sizzling bacon, greet us to the joyous music of the buntings, woodpeckers, grosbeaks, swallows and consorts – a welcome change from the crows of yesterday morning. The water shimmers announcing a nice day to come. After wolfing down a lumberjack-sized breakfast, we howler our team cry, scaring off a group of boy-scouts nearby. We redeploy the canoe teams and we’re off. Sara breaks into the song M. Cannibale. Bertrand does the “back vocals”. Bertrand, when you read this, remember not to give up your day job as a Certified Child Life specialist at which you’re so good! Thanks for your understanding.
Céline, Alain’s sweetheart, says she’ll see us at noon. She is waiting for us in a clearing full of butterflies dancing around a myriad of goldenrods. Céline treats us to a super hot meal, cold sodas and yogurt with strawberries, freshly picked. The strawberries, that is, not the yogurt.
In the afternoon, the sun really bears down. It seems the youngsters are affected: their muscles grow lazy. A head wind consumes our energy. So, after only 1.5 kilometers, we stop at a beach we call Windy-point, AKA No-mosquito-beach or Happy-beach. It’s 2 p.m. and canoeing is replaced by volleyball (Falcons 21, Lynx 15), football (Jenn, less than 100 pounds, out throws JF), ultimate Frisbee, swimming, lounging, and observing this beautiful stretch of river. In short, it’s paradise.
From afar, I watch the scene. To my surprise, I break into a laugh. It’s more than a smile. A smile would be too weak to express my joy. So much beauty. So much laughter. So many good vibes. We are privileged. I think of those poor soul writing blogs on American politics…
The day ends with huge hamburgers on toasted buns, a superb moon crescent, and Martin who with his magic wand launches a game of Loup-garous, our favorite. What a beautiful slice of life! Once again, it’s magical: as the youngsters recall this perfect day around the campfire, fireworks illuminate the sky. They keep coming. Unknown to us, Alain sneaked away after the meal. Earlier in the day, Céline had provided him with the ammunition. I tell you, the best day ever in the history of the Foundation expeditions. The truth, only the truth, nothing but the truth.
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
We left l’Île-à-la-ciboulette late, as the kids slept in. The angelus bells must have been ringing at the Girardville church – the closest hamlet, more than 70 kilometers away – when we set out in our canoes. The youngsters go to bed late, sometimes past midnight. In fact, nightfall is rather late in these parts. The stars don’t come out until 10:15 or even 10:30 p.m. So, when in the North, model your attitude on the northern latitude. Lunch stop at Île Shnitzel, AKA, the panoramic lavatory. I leave it to the kids to explain… Especially, Marie-Claude. The highlight of this grayish day: Corry and Jenn went swimming! Jenn told us it was her first time swimming in a natural setting. Even they can’t believe it.
On the way to our campsite, Pointe-à-l’orignal (Moose Point), the paddles are dragging in the water. A stirring motion rather than paddling. The canoes are noisier than their occupants, except for the occasional “Are we there yet?” The energy of the early days has mutated into tiredness.
The now familiar flying welcome committee greets us at the campsite. They are famished late in this hot, humid and windless day. Oddly enough, the kids don’t complain. Looks like they are becoming experienced campers.
Proof of this, Sara can now seal her keg without assistance…
Before the meal, JF demonstrates balance acts. Smiling as ever, Catherine G. takes charge of the meal service. Mime games follow. Vanessa will not sleep outdoors tonight. She changed her mind. Too bad, she will not see the shooting stars above.
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
The day had started well. At dawn, the clouds were gone. A soft breeze was keeping the mosquitoes away. Then came nice white spots on the horizon. Followed by grey ones, dark and heavy. By 9 o’clock, the spots were drenching us.
Spirits have reached a low point. Clothes are drenched. Some tents leak. It is cold. Vanessa wants to go home. Mario, Bertrand, Héléna and JF hold a meeting. Our young friends need an outlet. Each in turn tells us why they are here –meet new people, practice their French, push back their limitations, get back in shape, live an adventure. One after the other, they tell us about their qualities – perseverance, positivism, strength of character, patience. Sara asks: is this a “low moment”? No doubt.
In our luggage there are two mysterious giant potatoes wrapped in canvas tape, also known as “duct tape”. No one knows what’s inside and nobody can guess. They are to be used as booster cables during “low moments” or as a turbo during a “high moment”. The youngsters decide to use them. This morning, they tear the tape off the potatoes to find a huge quantity of jujubes. They wolf them down. Literally. The magic operates.
Literally. As the glucose explodes, le clouds clear away. As the taste buds awaken, the eyes widen: the northern wind pushes the clouds away.
We break up camp and get on our meandering way. Not easy. Downstream, the river roars. There is the Rapide du céleri. This first technical difficulty of our trip is cause for some exclamations. First, they are stupefied, and then they are happy and proud. Moments of eternity, out of time.
We pause for the mid-day meal. A violent storm rises behind us. It circles us and breaks upstream on the Pointe-aux-fraises. The kids are triumphant, once again. The Mistassini is our moving walkway to l’Île-à-la-ciboultette (Chives Island). Marie-Claude and Catherine L. have found a patch of this herb. They sprinkle some on a bed of rice on which rests a chicken brochette a Greek restaurateur would be proud of. Around the campfire, Bob comes to haunt us again. All day, he travelled with us. “Don’t you now worry about a thing. ‘Cause every little thing s’gonna be a-right.”
Tonight, Vanessa wants to sleep outdoors. No way would she leave the expedition now, not for a fortune.
NOTE: You have no idea of the reactions to the comments you e-mail to the kids! Keep them coming!
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
Our canoeing expedition has started. Grey skies overhead as we leave the Chute Blanche site. But, as by magic, the clouds slowly disappear as the day progresses. As the curtain rises to give place to the show, the grey weather dissipates and, around noon, the sky is blue. And tonight, stars in the thousands can be seen. JF strums his guitar near the campfire with Catherine L., Marie-Claude, Bertand, Martin, Héléna, Alain and Mario. I hear the others laughing in the tents behind me. I am sitting by the river listening to the water lapping Pointe-aux-Fraises. It smells of happiness… and of burnt marshmallows.
Our canoe trip is beautiful, and off to a good start. We got our feet wet for the first time some ten kilometres downstream from our initial planned stop point. The river is so high that we felt it would be more prudent not to bundle our stuff and portage the Rapide du Brûlé, a 1,5 km Class 3. After a rather laborious packing session, Mario organized an initiation to canoeing workshop.
The kids learn fast and they are eager to paddle. They are a little frustrated when we stop for lunch… We teach them how to light a fire. They teach us simple games: Adam even organizes a World championship of the game he called: “I-can-skip-a-flat-stone-further-than-you.’
A few paddle strokes later, we are at La Pointe-aux-Fraises (Strawberry Point). It might as well be La Pointe-à-la-Fraise (Lone Strawberry Point): we merely found three of them, and minuscule at that. Nevertheless, the view is magnificent: in the distance we can see the Montagne de la Tour (Tower Mountain). Our guide, Alain, tells us that his uncle was a warden there in the fifties, looking for forest fires nearby. ‘Three-Strawberries Point’ will be our first camping site. We show them how to set up the tents. The show us what collaboration and teamwork are.
Paradoxically and somewhat strangely, the deeper we get in the forest, leaving civilization behind, the more comfortable our young friends become. They are the gang of nine and all of then seem happy as we enter this wonderful uncertainty that is our adventure.
All of them send hugs and kisses. Of this, I am sure.
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
Not as gung-ho this morning, this gang. Bleary eyed, the adventurers stretch as they stumble out of their tent. Mosquitoes, black flies, gnats and other bugs used every opening to join our adventurers under the blankets. In short, no long and deep sleep for our heroes.
The morning was spent travelling the short, but difficult trek to the head of Chute Blanche. The high level of the Mistassini River prevented us from walking along the shore to get to said Chute Blanche. Instead, we had to cut through the forest to get to an abrupt trail that would take us some forty meters above.
Once there, what a sight! It is said, and we can confirm this, that the Chute Blanche is among the 10 most beautiful in Québec. During a well-deserved rest, the cameras get busy. We meet 2 couples from Sherbrooke finally realizing their old dream of canoeing on the Mistassini River. They tell us we’re very fortunate… We return to camp just in time for lunch and the soft sound of the rain on the roof of the dining-tent is conducive to a short after-lunch nap to catch up on the sleep time we didn’t get because of the flying beasts. As an appropriate segue, Céline introduces us to the fine art of dreamcatcher making. Let’s hope they can also catch a few insects as well… To end the evening, Mario holds a dialogue in the tepee. Tomorrow, Thursday, the 3rd, is the start of our canoe expedition. Judging from the conversations, our adventurers have adapted well to camping life. Next, they’ll have to push the limits of their comfort zone a little. Starting tomorrow, we’ll be nomads, and Mistassin.
P.S. The technical team wishes to inform one and all that our generator (Katerine with a K) seems to be ready to cooperate. The score is now 1-1.
Photographs of Mistassini 2008 and other photos of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation are available at the following URL:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pointedespieds
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