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