Leaving the Prairies

September 23, 2022 | Amqui, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Québec

Photo Credit: Darby P. on Unsplash

I grew up in a small rural town in southwest Saskatchewan. Everyone knows each other, and everyone went to school together.

We all know the various kinds of tractors, how harvest goes, which animals are typically grown as meat for dogs (yes, it’s a thing), and how to survive the bitter, bitter cold. However, most people in the Bas-Saint Laurent area would likely know that too. Small rural farming communities, no matter where located, seem to have the same vibes. 

“Most people are kind about my rusty French, and are happy to slow down or repeat themselves, which I greatly appreciate.”

Photo Credit: Nadine Steinley

I drove to Amqui from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, with my best friend who has since returned to Saskatchewan. We did about 45 hours of driving, in about 3 days. The first night we slept 4 hours, the second we slept 6 hours, and the third night we slept for 8 hours. I brought my 2 pet rabbits, Ginger and Paprika with me, which entertained us in the car sometimes. We had to stop every 2-3 hours because rabbits are extremely sensitive and can die from the tiniest change in diet or environment. We stopped and took them for 10-15-minute-long walks in random parks along the way. It was a long 3 days, but somehow, we made it with at least some of our sanity left.

I’ve been in this region for 1 month now, since then I’ve explored Amqui, Saint- Léon-de-Grande, Casapsucal, Rimouski, Parc Nationale du Bic, and lake Matapedia. All places which have been wonderful and fun. Most people are kind about my rusty French, and are happy to slow down or repeat themselves, which I greatly appreciate. I hope to learn more about this region during my time here!

Author
Nadine Steinley
Community Liaison (Amqui, Bas-Saint-Laurent)
for Y4Y Québec