Les matins se suivent et se ressemblent (Mornings start and are alike) sang Joe Dassin (and Marie-Michelle and Pascale this morning). However, our morning seems a little different from the ones that preceded it. Indeed, today Monday, we are taking down our camp to move a little closer to the coveted salmon.
Only a few hours after waking up, we are ready to leave this place to which we have become attached. Goodbye wildflowers and butterflies. Farewell sweet roars of the river. Now is the time to leave to pursuit of the salmon.
On the way to new adventures
So here we are, rolling in the dust, listening to what the North Shore radio stations have to offer. After listening to a bit of Bob Marley and Villains Penguins on the way, we stop for what is meant to be a short hike to a waterfall apparently of rare beauty.
Before starting our little adventure, let’s stop for a moment and realize how blessed we are to have blue skies and blazing sun for a fourth day in a row… Let’s admit, however, that the current weather is a tad warmer and that we would have taken a few degrees cooler to make the few kilometres that we are about to walk less demanding.
Marvel at the Pinel waterfall
We set off towards the Pinel waterfall in a heat that is difficult to ignore. In addition, the trail we are taking is about to offer us several challenges in the form of muddy sections and rather steep climbs.
Everything begins in a most pleasant atmosphere, and we quickly reach a moving speed that allows everyone to find something to their liking.
The way to the destination is still quite good, and the show once on site is reaching our highest expectations. The place is simply heavenly. We immediately take the opportunity to cool off a little, sitting comfortably on the rocks with our feet dragging nonchalantly in the water.
After a quick lunch, Robert, our psychosocial worker, suggests that we take some time to rethink each on our own, the goals we set for ourselves at the start of the trip.
This moment in silence makes us appreciate the song of the fall even more while making us realize how much we are constantly talking to each other. The magic of this type of expedition has taken its toll and we can’t help but make the most of each of us being there.
A slightly more difficult return
Despite the beauty of the place, we get back on our feet after this well-deserved break. Along the way, we make sure to stop at a stream to fill up with water so that we have enough to continue under this blazing sun. The water collected this way must be treated. We must therefore wait a good 30 minutes to drink it and quench our thirst.
Due to the weather and the energy that such an exercise requires, the return seems much longer to us, even though it isn’t. Some don’t even recognize the trail anymore how different the atmosphere is on the way back.
Either way, we nonetheless find ways to distract ourselves and forget about the heat and pain that some must overcome. Among other things, we are starting to talk about food. Mylène dreams of a jugo de sandilla (watermelon juice) reminding her of her adventures in Mexico. Sophie, being inspired by this cucurbitaceae, imagines herself eating a watermelon salad accompanied by olives, feta and mint. This idea makes many of us dream.
These food fantasies allow us to pass the time before finally returning to our starting point. Once in our minivans, we take advantage of the air conditioning to the maximum to enjoy this delightful but artificial freshness.
Recovering from our emotions
Unfortunately, we cannot spend the rest of the day there since we must set up our tents in a new spot. The set-up is much more efficient than the first day since we have learned how much easier it is to set up a tent with another person.
Once properly settled, we take the time to relax in small groups on the riverbanks. This is when Sophie suggests opening the “high and low”—a sort of surprise package that participants can all open together during an incredible moment or a more difficult episode. Or both.
The other participants agree as the hike was a great high of pleasure but was also followed by a big low in energy. A real roller coaster, from the discussions that followed.
After having collected wood themselves and started a fire, the participants then all sit together around it to open their little pick-me-up. Then we experience another beautiful moment, a sweet mixture of connection and relief, thanks to these little treats.
Following this intoxicating moment, we have supper earlier than usual. We also refrain from talking too late before going to bed since the plan for tomorrow is to get up early, very early, to increase our chances of catching an elusive salmon.
Good night, sweet dreams.
Jean-Mathieu, who should be in bed by now!
Blogger and Photographer for the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation.
In pictures
