WHAT'S A BYMPH & WHY DO I CARE?

It’s common in sub communities for unique vocabularies blossom, fostering bonds among those within it. From specialized jargon in professions to gamer language, these exclusive lexicons add depth to human communication, reflecting the intricate tapestry of society.

Camp is no different, and we have our own share of funky words! Have a look below & become an insider!

BLUEBERRY: Island used for Lunas on Overnights

THE GLEN: Campsite used for Novas on Overnights

DON: Maintenance Man. Part-time Santa Claus. Full-time badass.

TOOTSIE: Camp dog. Half Bernese Mountain dog, half poodle. Head of the squirrel squad.

MAGIC VIEW: The most beautiful sight you’ll ever see.RABASKA: You see those big yellow boats in the lake? Yep, those are called Rabaskas.

BALLON POIRE: Quebec schoolyard game that brought much joy, and many bruises.

PEG IN/PEG OUT: Safety protocol at the waterfront

LAURENTIAN LEAK: The inexplicable and unavoidable urge to pee (constantly) after drinking minerally-filled water.

WACKY OUAREAU WEATHER: The extreme shift in weather that is experienced in one day (winter-cold mornings, summer-hot afternoons, torrential downpouring evenings)

TABLEAUX: Silent skits that are presented by campers at Closing Ceremonies 

DEPANNEUR: Campers and staff can pick up small things that they may be missing (ie. batteries, toothbrush, etc..)

L’APPART: Room at the back of Le Chalet, on the left side. That’s your staff lounge! 

PILE OU FACE: Activities that are planned for those rainy days, which are so awesome that we kind of hope it will rain.

SIESTA: One hour right after lunch where campers must stay in their cabin and rest (read a book, work on a bracelet, etc.)

STAFF SWIM: 30 minutes-ish of free time for staff before dinner /paperwork time!

#MYJOB: Those moments where you find yourself doing or saying something that you wouldn’t if you didn’t work at Ouareau.

WIBYT: Write It Before You Talk

SAS: STOP what you are doing, APPROACH appropriately, SPEAK kindly.

VIP: Validate, Investigate, Problem-solve

“IN A MOMENT, NOT YET...”: Probably one of the best sentences you’ll ever say. (brought to us by Michael Brandwein) 

BYMPH: The spirit of camp. Loves licorice. 

BATTEMENT: 10 minutes between activities

LA ROCHE: Time of reflection every Sunday

PUDDLE TIME: Short time between dinner and evening program.

THE MULE: Maintenance’s chariot. 

TAPS: Camper’s lullabies.

ROUNDABOUT: Nova section/meeting point

PLAQUES: Group plaque at the end of the month (showcased in the dining room)

GRACES + BREAKS: Opening and closing of meals

S’MORES: Chocolate. Graham crackers. Marshmallows. Genius.

ACT: Acknowledge, Communicate, Together

DARE: Diversity, Atmosphere, Respect, Esteem

OSER: Overture, Site, Estime, Respect

CAMPISTE: Gender inclusive word for campers, in French

MONIT’: Gender inclusive word for counsellor, in French

NOVA: Campers 8-11 years old 

LUNA: Campers 12-13 years old 

SENIOR: Campers 14-16 years old 

TUCK: A serving of candy on tuesdays, thursdays and saturdays after supper

STICKY BUNS: Breakfast on Sundays. 

HONEY BUTTER: Dip for your Sticky Buns. 

GULLY: Path down to the lake from the Health Centre

DOIGS: Island used for Seniors on Overnights