A gentle wake-up at the lodge, and we head straight to the cafeteria for a lovely breakfast of fruit, cottage cheese, yogurt, waffles and berry sauce. We take the time to chat and savour our tea or coffee.
Back at the chalet, we pack our expedition barrels. Departure is just around the corner. Pénélope and Catherine are the first to be ready. I can feel all their excitement and anticipation.
A short walk to the beach, a little stretching, and then we leave camp for broader horizons.
The reservoir is magnificent. After just a few minutes, the sky opens up to reveal gentle, comforting sunshine.
Our pace is brisk, and everyone seems to have plenty of energy. Our conversations on the water are meaningful. Our group loves talking, connecting and being together in a wonderfully simple way. The atmosphere shifts between quiet moments, bursts of laughter and more philosophical questions.
A quick snack stop in front of Lost Island before we set off again. Lee questions the place names, and we take a moment to talk about the area’s history.
When we arrive at Eagle Island, Louis, Charles and Serge greet us: “Welcome to Café de la Pointe!” When it comes to outdoor dining, Café de la Pointe is a favourite! On the menu: taco soup, corn chips and avocados. As always, it’s excellent, and the break feels especially good!
Back on the water, we paddle energetically toward our first campsite. Éric and Matt are already recruiting brave souls to go swimming when we arrive.
The breeze feels good, and time flies. We stop for a moment to enjoy it a little longer.
There are only a few minutes of rabaska paddling left for today, and Catherine is at the front. It’s one of her highlights of the day.
In the distance, Dallaire Point appears. We arrive at camp 1.
Everyone hurries to pitch their tent and get changed. We meet at the beach for a group swim (the water is 63 degrees, and we have a thermometer to prove it).
Little squeals of joy, bursts of laughter, and almost the whole group goes swimming. It was refreshing and energizing for many. We’re going to sleep well tonight.
Before heading to bed, we end our day with a delicious meal of puréed soup, risotto and brownies. Around the fire, we talk about our day, our favourite moments, the memories taking root within us and how everyone is feeling.
Elisabeth shares a moment that left an impression on her.
Naomi mentions that her day is a 10/10 (as it is for many of us).
Nick points out how rare it is to feel this connected after knowing one another for such a short time. He says, “We vibe!” He’s right. There’s something inexplicable about this group, a sense of closeness and harmony that feels a little like a big family or longtime friends. It’s a great privilege to experience this. It’s “smooth,” as Marie-Michelle would say.
One thing is certain: tonight, we’re going to bed feeling fulfilled by our day!
See you tomorrow for more!
Geneviève
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