Yesterday, we introduced our camping buddies to the three islands that make up Îles-de-Boucherville national park. When we first started coming here in 2017, the big draw was that it shortened the driving distance to Deschaillons-Sur-St. Laurent. I think that even if we wanted or were able to drive longer distances, we wouldn't.
There is something awesome about people who have chosen to not develop this large tract of land. It is surrounded by Canada's second largest city and its suburbs. With each visit we witness the transition to what it must have been like when our native folks lived here. Less and less lawn mowing happening each year. I imagine tens of thousands of Montrealers find peace in their busy lives in this place every year.
Between the islands all kinds of watercraft enjoy the calm waters. And, whadda ya know? BBQ donuts are a thing. We toyed with the thought of renting one until we realized that it was for folks with much thicker wallets than we have. $350 for 3 hours. No bbq on a donut for us for supper, but the poutine with pulled pork and smoked meat at an outdoor table was a good alternative. So yummy!!! I am still full this morning.
I am not a fan of burdocks. Comes from our farming days. I am coming to appreciate them when I remember that some of the 200 bird species here love their seeds. Sadly, some get entangled in the burrs. Life is harsh, even in beautiful surroundings.
Trees in the protected areas are starting to tell us that fall is coming. Today's forecast is for 29˚C. I wonder if the trees get confused?
The native long house has deteriorated somewhat from three years ago. It still gives a good representation of what living on these islands would have been like before settlers arrived.
Today's sponsor is very elusive. Can you see that there is still some of its winter coat left on its neck? Back in the day, it would have had to be even more elusive if it was stuck on these islands with people who wanted to eat it.
While Ted tried to get a little more sleep, I biked the 10 minutes from the campground to the Discovery Centre this morning. You can get a coffee here, packaged snacks, travel information plus rent canoes, kayaks and inflatable paddle boards.
A boat is still quietly resting in the peaceful waters next to the centre.
And, a white egret is finding its breakfast. No coffee or packaged snacks for this one.
Public spaces like this feel like love to me.
“The day the power of love overrules the love of power,
the world will know peace.”
Mahatma Gandhi
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