Camp air-eau-bois, 7h30

The group is playing cards quietly. There are 9 of them laughing and getting to know each other. The atmosphere is charged with energy and positivity. Camaraderie is immediate between the young participants as with the staff, the guides and the medical team. Sharing is the rule. Strong bonds of friendship are formed between Tamara and Mégane, who seem to have known each other forever.

The first day is at an end and it was a full one!

After several hours of driving, we finally arrived at the Air-Eau-Bois Camp, where we spent the day, and where we are sleeping tonight before leaving on the expedition. Today, the participants had the chance to visit the place, settle down, have a round table introduction, got to know each other and discuss a little before leaving for the first time on the water.

Once everyone has introduced themselves, we went down to the beach to play some games, learn to paddle and practice our canoeing techniques. Our teamwork is awesome. Wolverine and kiwi (name of our teams) move their canoes forward with great determination and strength.

It was really a nice afternoon! The sun was shining. Here, it is both summer and fall! It’s warm out, but the changing-colour show has begun. It’s the best of both worlds, we’re very fortunate!

Back at the camp, we have a nice hot meal outside while enjoying the setting sun; then, we take the time to share on our goals, our reasons for being here and on our fears.

Whether it is to take time for themselves, experience new things, meet challenges and push their limits, or spend time with young people the same age as them, they have their own reasons for being here. I think about mine. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet these young people and share the adventure with them. I believe in the power of connections between human and nature, but above all in the power of the connections between humans. These are such beautiful and strong young people and they are already inspiring. I am happy to spend time with them, to listen to them, and to live and capture their best moments.

I’m impressed by the awesome group we already form! I am confident that this will be a unique experience for everyone.

We are eager to leave on the Poisson Blanc reservoir, nature is calling us.

See you tomorrow!

Geneviève Locas
Photographer/Blogger for the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation