Cakes and glaciers

Our game plan for the day was changed as we woke up. We were to hike on a gentle slope. That decision was made because the weather forecast wasn’t good. However, as the weather changed this morning, the option of taking the long hike near Mount Assiniboine became the right option again. This somewhat destabilized those who expected an easier day. That said, no day is necessarily easy, partly because of the mosquitoes that never let us alone … never.

There goes! A little morning dance to warm us up, initiated by Dr. Marie-Ève, who is always keen on motivating the troops, and then we’re off! The distance planned for today was about 10 kilometres. From the first steps, the view of Mount Assiniboine was amazing. According to the guides, it would be even more so once we reach the summit.

By the way, the peaks we will reach in this park will not include Mount Assiniboine. It is far and too difficult to access it. Only experts can go there, equipped with ropes and piolets.

It was at lunchtime when we reached one of the park’s most beautiful views. As far as I’m concerned, it’s definitely the most beautiful mountain landscape I’ve ever seen in my life. A landscape that gives you chills, has other option but to move you. At once, I realize how nature can create non-replicable effects.

That is when the guides offered us choices. Take the way back with a guaranteed swim or climb to the top with the risk of completing the walk without going for a swim. Those for whom efforts were enough choosing the way back and those who did not want to miss anything continued. I was on the last panel. It is crazy what a summit can do to the urge to climb it. Reaching the top was definitely rewarding. Once there, the wind rose and a huge thunder clap was heard. We had to head back soon after taking a few pictures. Huge grey clouds were heading our way. The storm was inevitable. Wow! What a sensation! A thunderstorm in the middle of the mountain, perhaps more hail? At the end of the day, about 10 drops of rain fell on us, at the most. For a photographer, it was an opportunity. Later on, we also had time for a swim. The water was very cold, but still bearable. Cindy even swam there for several minutes, which earned her the nickname Swimdy. About an hour later, we joined the rest of the group for a glass of lemonade and a bite to eat, courtesy of the Lodge team. Thank you very much to Claude and Annick!

Just as a little anecdote, the lanyard I bought before I left to hold my camera on my bag broke, and my camera fell in the rocks, on the ground. At first glance no damage. Then, the zoom-in of the objective no longer works … could someone bring me another one, please?

As yesterday and in the next few days, tasks are separated into teams for meals and dishes.

Yesterday, I mentioned the interest the participants had in writing on this blog. Tonight I’ll turn it over to Cindy.

“To family and friends, who probably follow us diligently… I could tell you for hours about the magical moments we are experiencing here. I could describe the climbing, where we learned to trust each other, individually but also with our expedition teammates. I could tell you about the beauty of the landscapes, or even about the respect and listening prevailing here, the crazy line dancing moments on Shania Twain (sung by us, given the absence of any electronic device). I could tell you that the sharing that took place during the sharing circle times are among the most touching ones I have had the opportunity to hear in my life. I could tell you about the helicopter ride over Assiniboine Park (Aurelie would say it was ‘Sick’ or ‘f***** Awesome’). I could tell you that yesterday a deer came very close to our group. But I’m sure that the magnificent photos taken by Nicolas, our photographer blogger, show you how extraordinary this trip is … and I’m sure many of you envy us and would like to be in our place.

However, I would like to talk about the journey that you do not see. For example, the most difficult times, the ones you don’t see in the pictures… Each of us has had our share of moments of concern and apprehension. For some, it is a fear of taking up too much room in the group, for others, fear of having to leave the concept of comfort as we know it. One participant made me laugh when she spoke of her apprehension of being unable to meet her needs in the forest, which could have jeopardized her expedition. For many (including me), it is the fear of encountering a wild animal, such as a bear or a cougar. Some are worried about their physical abilities. Every day is filled with tears, as much as fatigue or gratitude.

It is with relief that I announce that all my fears have disappeared today. It was a wonderful day, and several times I felt so lucky to be here. One of my dreams was to swim in a lake, at the foot of a glacier. The pleasure is multiplied by sharing it. I also cried yesterday, and the day before yesterday … living with cancer twice has made me suspicious of my body and abilities. I cry with joy as I write to you how at this end of the day, after climbing a high, I have regained my confidence and I see that I am capable of much more than I thought.

And those who know me will be surprised to read that by going to my natural pace, without a schedule, I’m a very efficient person in the morning!”

Nicolas Tremblay, Blogger and Photographer for the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation