Ryan DeBoer- Last Full Day in Joshua Tree

Yummy yummy, pancakes with chocolate chips and raisins. Top those off with a little fruit pie filling and you’ve got yourself one happy stomach to start off your day. Today is another full day of lessons, so we will need the energy to stay with it. We have all learned a little about how to present lessons properly, but it is hard to stay focused when so many lessons are given in one day. Courtney’s lesson before lunch was definitely up to par. She had a lot of good information to present and did that in a very interactive way. She set the bar for outdoor education lessons. Steve told a great story about Jebadiah Smith and the fur trading business. Ooter, Josh, Shible, and Jake all gave lessons throughout the day as well. Wow, like I said, a lot of lessons were given today.

As busy as the day was, it’s only getting started for me. All our journals must be typed; all of our articles for the third newsletter must be loaded and ready; all our lesson plans for environmental interpretation and outdoor education in the Southwestern desert ecosystem must all be done by tomorrow night. All this homework will certainly affect the amount of sleep I get and my attitude heading into our jobs as camp counselors in Malibu.

Homework is definitely a downer, especially with this much of it to do coming out of our solo experience and directly following an entire day of lessons. Thank God for solo though because I now know I can choose my own attitude and I will choose to have a positive one going into LACOSS in Malibu. Well, it’s after 8pm already and I have hours of homework to do yet tonight, so GOODNIGHT! Here’s to staying positive even during hectic times!

Ryan DeBoer- Last Full Day in Joshua Tree

Yummy yummy, pancakes with chocolate chips and raisins. Top those off with a little fruit pie filling and you’ve got yourself one happy stomach to start off your day. Today is another full day of lessons, so we will need the energy to stay with it. We have all learned a little about how to present lessons properly, but it is hard to stay focused when so many lessons are given in one day. Courtney’s lesson before lunch was definitely up to par. She had a lot of good information to present and did that in a very interactive way. She set the bar for outdoor education lessons. Steve told a great story about Jebadiah Smith and the fur trading business. Ooter, Josh, Shible, and Jake all gave lessons throughout the day as well. Wow, like I said, a lot of lessons were given today.

As busy as the day was, it’s only getting started for me. All our journals must be typed; all of our articles for the third newsletter must be loaded and ready; all our lesson plans for environmental interpretation and outdoor education in the Southwestern desert ecosystem must all be done by tomorrow night. All this homework will certainly affect the amount of sleep I get and my attitude heading into our jobs as camp counselors in Malibu.

Homework is definitely a downer, especially with this much of it to do coming out of our solo experience and directly following an entire day of lessons. Thank God for solo though because I now know I can choose my own attitude and I will choose to have a positive one going into LACOSS in Malibu. Well, it’s after 8pm already and I have hours of homework to do yet tonight, so GOODNIGHT! Here’s to staying positive even during hectic times!

Joshua Tree National Park

Early to rise, before the sun, I had a lot of homework to do. As the sun rose, I wondered what the day would bring? Would I be staying or going home? Soon other arose, my alone time was over. Breakfast pizza was on the menu, but it took forever to cook. While we waited we did Leave No Trace lessons. Courtney was a trickster, scrambling her words, and Ooter did a skit. DeBoer’s lesson I missed, I am going home on the 15. Jeff and I talked about the logistics as my heart was breaking. I am going home. After laundry and grocery shopping, we made a stop at the library. Rose helped me buy my first plane ticket, and DeBoer got his permit for his deer cam. Back at camp, we had taco salad for lunch. Steve told us to be ready to hike, and we left for Rattlesnake Canyon. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I scurried up the granite rocks, leaping and bounding up to the top. I felt as if I was in the backcountry again; my mood soared. DeBoer gave his lesson on setting up deer cams. I am pretty sure we caught two ugly cavemen. The sun was setting; it was time to leave. The best part of the day was on its way. Halfway back to camp, Jeff showed us a detour. We hiked in the dark with the stars as our guide for just a few minutes before coming to a pile of rocks. Jeff said caving; our faces lit up. We worked together to scurry and squeeze through all the cracks and holes. Derek found a Tarantula and wanted to pick it up; he settled for petting it instead. Ooter, Courtney, DeBoer and I all swallowed some air and touched its furry, fuzzy, legs. Never before have I had such an experience. I felt full of wonder as I explored the cave climbing and crawling not knowing where I would end up. DeBoer found a big room, and soon discovered he was really outside. I climbed out of the cave into the night air, the stars all twinkling and moon lighting the sky. We all sat and waited for the others. When Steve and Jeff popped out, we left for camp to eat supper. Supper was awesome, even if it was called Manly Orzo. We debriefed, then briefed about our little hike tomorrow. It was clean up then bedtime. As I slipped in my bag for the night, I smiled at the moon and stars, goodnight.
Oh and before I forget… HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSE!!

Emilie Litow

Joshua Tree National Park

Early to rise, before the sun, I had a lot of homework to do. As the sun rose, I wondered what the day would bring? Would I be staying or going home? Soon other arose, my alone time was over. Breakfast pizza was on the menu, but it took forever to cook. While we waited we did Leave No Trace lessons. Courtney was a trickster, scrambling her words, and Ooter did a skit. DeBoer’s lesson I missed, I am going home on the 15. Jeff and I talked about the logistics as my heart was breaking. I am going home. After laundry and grocery shopping, we made a stop at the library. Rose helped me buy my first plane ticket, and DeBoer got his permit for his deer cam. Back at camp, we had taco salad for lunch. Steve told us to be ready to hike, and we left for Rattlesnake Canyon. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I scurried up the granite rocks, leaping and bounding up to the top. I felt as if I was in the backcountry again; my mood soared. DeBoer gave his lesson on setting up deer cams. I am pretty sure we caught two ugly cavemen. The sun was setting; it was time to leave. The best part of the day was on its way. Halfway back to camp, Jeff showed us a detour. We hiked in the dark with the stars as our guide for just a few minutes before coming to a pile of rocks. Jeff said caving; our faces lit up. We worked together to scurry and squeeze through all the cracks and holes. Derek found a Tarantula and wanted to pick it up; he settled for petting it instead. Ooter, Courtney, DeBoer and I all swallowed some air and touched its furry, fuzzy, legs. Never before have I had such an experience. I felt full of wonder as I explored the cave climbing and crawling not knowing where I would end up. DeBoer found a big room, and soon discovered he was really outside. I climbed out of the cave into the night air, the stars all twinkling and moon lighting the sky. We all sat and waited for the others. When Steve and Jeff popped out, we left for camp to eat supper. Supper was awesome, even if it was called Manly Orzo. We debriefed, then briefed about our little hike tomorrow. It was clean up then bedtime. As I slipped in my bag for the night, I smiled at the moon and stars, goodnight.
Oh and before I forget… HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSE!!

Emilie Litow

Joshua Tree National Park

Today started off with breakfast and potato egg drop amazingness. We cleaned up and loaded the van for a morning hike and another day of lessons. Everyone fell asleep on the van ride on the way to Samuels’s rock. After t=many teachable moments on the way out to the rocks… and wait one more, and yet another we finally arrived at the rocks. There was clearly no spell check, not that we use it either, but the sayings struck a cord with me. Derek gave his lesson and we were back on the move again, this time headed back to our white 15 passenger chariot. Back at camp we debriefed the morning and ate a great pizza pocket lunch. We went back to our awaiting 15 passenger lime and we were off to the visitors center so DeBoer could get his permit for his camera and so Emilie could give a lesson. This was one of the first really SPEC lessons we have had. Jake played with a cactus and everyone got a good laugh out of that. My photo-holic self and to take multiple pictures of the Joshua Tree Welcome Sign before we could head back to the van again. Everyone enjoyed picking the burs off their clothing. Steve came out and gave his short Leave No Trace lesson and DeBoer started in on a great dinner. We debriefed the evening and everyone was able to air issues out that had been arising. After that it was homework time followed by hitting the sack. I was so tired and accomplished no reading and did not write in my journal either, but there is always tomorrow.
-Ryan Plunkett

Joshua Tree National Park

Today started off with breakfast and potato egg drop amazingness. We cleaned up and loaded the van for a morning hike and another day of lessons. Everyone fell asleep on the van ride on the way to Samuels’s rock. After t=many teachable moments on the way out to the rocks… and wait one more, and yet another we finally arrived at the rocks. There was clearly no spell check, not that we use it either, but the sayings struck a cord with me. Derek gave his lesson and we were back on the move again, this time headed back to our white 15 passenger chariot. Back at camp we debriefed the morning and ate a great pizza pocket lunch. We went back to our awaiting 15 passenger lime and we were off to the visitors center so DeBoer could get his permit for his camera and so Emilie could give a lesson. This was one of the first really SPEC lessons we have had. Jake played with a cactus and everyone got a good laugh out of that. My photo-holic self and to take multiple pictures of the Joshua Tree Welcome Sign before we could head back to the van again. Everyone enjoyed picking the burs off their clothing. Steve came out and gave his short Leave No Trace lesson and DeBoer started in on a great dinner. We debriefed the evening and everyone was able to air issues out that had been arising. After that it was homework time followed by hitting the sack. I was so tired and accomplished no reading and did not write in my journal either, but there is always tomorrow.
-Ryan Plunkett

A not so early morning was the start to great day at Camp Cuyamaca. After breakfast and bomb proofing camp we were off, Jeff driving down the winding roads like he was from New York City. Man I hate motion sickness. After a joyous arrival, upon which I could have kissed the ground we met Jeff’s friend Gregg. Gregg took us into the staff house where we learned a little about the program. While there we also learned whom we would be following for the rest of the day. Derek and I followed Jeb, he was very professional and great with the students (San Diego County 6th graders.) With Jeb we went on a 3 mile hike with the kids, Jeb stopping to do teachable moments along the way. These teachable moments didn’t even feel like lessons, for us, or the kids. After several stops for snacks and joining the hardcore club of apple eaters we arrived at out destination. Here we had lunch, then the students got to see it. A great waterfall for them to play in! They were having a great time in nature, this is something there parents might not have let them do at home. Under Jeb’s watchful eye they were having a safe and fun time. I have never seen kids so happy. I was very impressed with Jeb’s program and how professional he was. We were then off to see Principal Gregg and learn about how the school was ran. He talked to us about the staffing , budget, disciplinary system and various other parts of the management. It was then that I learned why the staff was so professional, they all had previous experience in the field. It was great to hear form Gregg and after we gave him an ECOEE mug we were off back to camp. After a shower and doing some homework, it’s time to crash.

Josh

A not so early morning was the start to great day at Camp Cuyamaca. After breakfast and bomb proofing camp we were off, Jeff driving down the winding roads like he was from New York City. Man I hate motion sickness. After a joyous arrival, upon which I could have kissed the ground we met Jeff’s friend Gregg. Gregg took us into the staff house where we learned a little about the program. While there we also learned whom we would be following for the rest of the day. Derek and I followed Jeb, he was very professional and great with the students (San Diego County 6th graders.) With Jeb we went on a 3 mile hike with the kids, Jeb stopping to do teachable moments along the way. These teachable moments didn’t even feel like lessons, for us, or the kids. After several stops for snacks and joining the hardcore club of apple eaters we arrived at out destination. Here we had lunch, then the students got to see it. A great waterfall for them to play in! They were having a great time in nature, this is something there parents might not have let them do at home. Under Jeb’s watchful eye they were having a safe and fun time. I have never seen kids so happy. I was very impressed with Jeb’s program and how professional he was. We were then off to see Principal Gregg and learn about how the school was ran. He talked to us about the staffing , budget, disciplinary system and various other parts of the management. It was then that I learned why the staff was so professional, they all had previous experience in the field. It was great to hear form Gregg and after we gave him an ECOEE mug we were off back to camp. After a shower and doing some homework, it’s time to crash.

Josh

“GCNP to the Orme School”

Up super duper early to stuff our tents in the trailer and stuff our bellies with delightful chocolate chip and banana pancakes and delicious home-made applesauce made by Courtney and Emilie.

We hade everything cleaned up, put away and we were in the van by 7:40am. After three joyous hours in the van driving through beautiful Arizona we made it to the world renowned Orme School. Ooter’s boss Tim, his wife Suzie and Mike gave us a very informational tour of the campus and told us about the summer camp, school, marketing, scholarships and everything else that the Orme School has to offer.

After the tour we grabbed a quick lunch, dropped our stuff off at the cabins and took off for a hike to view the big mesa and some ancient Indian ruins. Some great lessons and teachable moments were given then we debriefed in a dried up wash and made it back in time for dinner. The lovely people at Orme let us join them for an amazing dinner and then it was off to do laundry for me. While doing laundry Steve and I had a great talk with Bruce, the physics teacher and then off to bed for the both of us.

-Derek

“GCNP to the Orme School”

Up super duper early to stuff our tents in the trailer and stuff our bellies with delightful chocolate chip and banana pancakes and delicious home-made applesauce made by Courtney and Emilie.

We hade everything cleaned up, put away and we were in the van by 7:40am. After three joyous hours in the van driving through beautiful Arizona we made it to the world renowned Orme School. Ooter’s boss Tim, his wife Suzie and Mike gave us a very informational tour of the campus and told us about the summer camp, school, marketing, scholarships and everything else that the Orme School has to offer.

After the tour we grabbed a quick lunch, dropped our stuff off at the cabins and took off for a hike to view the big mesa and some ancient Indian ruins. Some great lessons and teachable moments were given then we debriefed in a dried up wash and made it back in time for dinner. The lovely people at Orme let us join them for an amazing dinner and then it was off to do laundry for me. While doing laundry Steve and I had a great talk with Bruce, the physics teacher and then off to bed for the both of us.

-Derek

South rim of the Grand Canyon

Rise and shine on another glorious day here at the Grand Canyon National Park. Today was like yesterday but everything was different. Egg drop breakfast was the beginning of our fabulous day. While I hate eggs I was able to stomach the thought of eating them with a false bet of $20.00 from Derek. Josh had to stop at the bathroom before his kidneys exploded so the rest of the group headed to the walk and talk with Jim about fossils. Jake and I decided to skip the talk because it was already about twenty minutes through. We sat on the rim and enjoyed the whole in the Earth that everyone came to see. We looked at the newspaper and tried to find another talk for the morning. We had great success and headed for the Observation Center and the Colorado River talk. We jumped on a bus and thanks to Mrs. Personality Laura, who could have had a whole tour route to herself, we missed the next talk we planned on attending. She could have had a whole critique written on her voice in fluctuation and skills. We missed yet another talk thanks to our amazing scene of direction Jake and I ended back up at camp, so we decided to start prepping for lunch. Tuna, salad, and bread that was made to perfection. We took off and headed for what we hoped would be our first talk of the day. A ranger’s choice, so glad we went to this one. Kris bowline or “k-Bow” as she liked to be called by her friends gave an amazing interp. She talked to us for a good half an hour after the presentation from everything about her childhood, to her master’s degree and how she was another peoson along the way who was jealous of the opportunity we have on this trip. Tomato soup and grilled cheese was for dinner. Pretty good for someone who cant cook. Everyone helped with putting things away for the evening and then the group headed to the talk about, “ A tale of two Roosevelts.” Nichole was presenting this enthusiastic talk, she was super excited and she should have been she made the presentation. Some of the information could have been expanded upon but she covered tons that was very informative, probably a bit to much. I finally finished Twilight and am passing the excitement onto Rose, New Moon here I come!

South rim of the Grand Canyon

Rise and shine on another glorious day here at the Grand Canyon National Park. Today was like yesterday but everything was different. Egg drop breakfast was the beginning of our fabulous day. While I hate eggs I was able to stomach the thought of eating them with a false bet of $20.00 from Derek. Josh had to stop at the bathroom before his kidneys exploded so the rest of the group headed to the walk and talk with Jim about fossils. Jake and I decided to skip the talk because it was already about twenty minutes through. We sat on the rim and enjoyed the whole in the Earth that everyone came to see. We looked at the newspaper and tried to find another talk for the morning. We had great success and headed for the Observation Center and the Colorado River talk. We jumped on a bus and thanks to Mrs. Personality Laura, who could have had a whole tour route to herself, we missed the next talk we planned on attending. She could have had a whole critique written on her voice in fluctuation and skills. We missed yet another talk thanks to our amazing scene of direction Jake and I ended back up at camp, so we decided to start prepping for lunch. Tuna, salad, and bread that was made to perfection. We took off and headed for what we hoped would be our first talk of the day. A ranger’s choice, so glad we went to this one. Kris bowline or “k-Bow” as she liked to be called by her friends gave an amazing interp. She talked to us for a good half an hour after the presentation from everything about her childhood, to her master’s degree and how she was another peoson along the way who was jealous of the opportunity we have on this trip. Tomato soup and grilled cheese was for dinner. Pretty good for someone who cant cook. Everyone helped with putting things away for the evening and then the group headed to the talk about, “ A tale of two Roosevelts.” Nichole was presenting this enthusiastic talk, she was super excited and she should have been she made the presentation. Some of the information could have been expanded upon but she covered tons that was very informative, probably a bit to much. I finally finished Twilight and am passing the excitement onto Rose, New Moon here I come!

Ryan DeBoer @ the Grand Canyon

A great long night’s sleep to replenish my soul,
And a wonderful breakfast to fill my bowl.

A lack of planning had made us late,
But that stopped none from making the day great.

So maybe we missed the fossil walk,
But we all got to see some interesting talks.

I made Shible’s morning rough with a bad attitude,
I need to start showing more gratitude.

The decision was made to go out on our own,
Into the Grand Canyon we were thrown.

To the visitor center Derek and I ran,
To scout out the day and make our plan.

We decided to join the river walk,
But the river wasn’t the main point of the talk.

From that talk, we learned a great lesson,
As an interpretive speaker one must make an impression.

Ranger Bob’s talk was the opposite,
The CCC changed America and I’ll never forget.

He captivated the audience by telling a story,
Oh the difference it made, just think of Old Glory.

That old banner is not just a flag,
It’s a representation that life’s not that bad.

FDR took over in a time of crisis,
But his quick work made him one of the nicest.

Billions of trees were planted and thrive,
It was for conservation that FDR strived.

He helped create many government parks,
That allow millions of people to camp out in the dark.

Most look up to see the beautiful stars,
And they get a great feeling of where they are.

Not a particular location, but a place in life,
For me at least, it all feels so right.

Our group has our struggles, but we’re all getting better,
There’s too much to say to put it in letters.

We are all beginning to develop our norms,
And I pray for the day we start to perform.

To the Pacific we’ll be heading soon,
To camp underneath the southwestern moon.

We may be worried about homework and grades,
But there’s not a student on campus with whom spots I would trade.

Ryan DeBoer @ the Grand Canyon

A great long night’s sleep to replenish my soul,
And a wonderful breakfast to fill my bowl.

A lack of planning had made us late,
But that stopped none from making the day great.

So maybe we missed the fossil walk,
But we all got to see some interesting talks.

I made Shible’s morning rough with a bad attitude,
I need to start showing more gratitude.

The decision was made to go out on our own,
Into the Grand Canyon we were thrown.

To the visitor center Derek and I ran,
To scout out the day and make our plan.

We decided to join the river walk,
But the river wasn’t the main point of the talk.

From that talk, we learned a great lesson,
As an interpretive speaker one must make an impression.

Ranger Bob’s talk was the opposite,
The CCC changed America and I’ll never forget.

He captivated the audience by telling a story,
Oh the difference it made, just think of Old Glory.

That old banner is not just a flag,
It’s a representation that life’s not that bad.

FDR took over in a time of crisis,
But his quick work made him one of the nicest.

Billions of trees were planted and thrive,
It was for conservation that FDR strived.

He helped create many government parks,
That allow millions of people to camp out in the dark.

Most look up to see the beautiful stars,
And they get a great feeling of where they are.

Not a particular location, but a place in life,
For me at least, it all feels so right.

Our group has our struggles, but we’re all getting better,
There’s too much to say to put it in letters.

We are all beginning to develop our norms,
And I pray for the day we start to perform.

To the Pacific we’ll be heading soon,
To camp underneath the southwestern moon.

We may be worried about homework and grades,
But there’s not a student on campus with whom spots I would trade.

10-15-08

Another morning of waking up in a comfortable, warm bed of a motel. For some reason it just isn’t the same as spending the night in a sleeping bag inside of what has been our home for quite some time now; our beloved tents. Oh how I miss camping and cannot wait to get out of these stale, cubic motel rooms. On the other hand, I am very thankful to be able to take showers and should not be complaining.
Anyway, we headed down to the parking lot early this morning for a meal of powdered eggs left over from the backcountry, delicious sautéed vegetables, and hash browns. Derek was also kind enough to run to the gas station next door and bring back amazing pumpkin spice cappuccinos for Emilie and I. After cleaning the kitchen up, we climbed the stairs back up to our rooms for an hour or so of homework time and another pumpkin spice cappuccino. We definitely weren’t going to fall asleep while doing homework this time.
Around noon the group reconvened for a quick lunch before heading out to the Jackson Hole Visitor’s Center. It was definitely one of the most interpretive and educational visitor centers we have been to, and it incorporated a variety of learning styles for the array of individuals who stop by. There was everything from water floor panels to paintings done by local artists. Also included in the visitor center were sculptures, artifacts, a movie theater that played a documentary of Jackson Hole and The Grand Tetons, useful and interesting information on every wall, in addition to a book where visitors could pledge their signature to preserve The Grand Teton National Park. This particular visitor center also had an extensive gift shop full of wonderful books and other learning material, as well as an area designated for purchasing permits. Although, my favorite part of the center was the gigantic windows, allowing visitors to see a lovely view of the Grand Tetons.
Once we made our way back to the motel, we were given more time to catch up on homework. Before I knew it, it was time for dinner in the parking lot again where we debriefed our simple but productive day. I then decided to call a friend whom I met in Alaska this summer and was very happy to hear from them. Soon it was off to bed for some shut eye in order to rest up for our big day at the Teton Science School tomorrow.



Courtney Mullin

10-15-08

Another morning of waking up in a comfortable, warm bed of a motel. For some reason it just isn’t the same as spending the night in a sleeping bag inside of what has been our home for quite some time now; our beloved tents. Oh how I miss camping and cannot wait to get out of these stale, cubic motel rooms. On the other hand, I am very thankful to be able to take showers and should not be complaining.
Anyway, we headed down to the parking lot early this morning for a meal of powdered eggs left over from the backcountry, delicious sautéed vegetables, and hash browns. Derek was also kind enough to run to the gas station next door and bring back amazing pumpkin spice cappuccinos for Emilie and I. After cleaning the kitchen up, we climbed the stairs back up to our rooms for an hour or so of homework time and another pumpkin spice cappuccino. We definitely weren’t going to fall asleep while doing homework this time.
Around noon the group reconvened for a quick lunch before heading out to the Jackson Hole Visitor’s Center. It was definitely one of the most interpretive and educational visitor centers we have been to, and it incorporated a variety of learning styles for the array of individuals who stop by. There was everything from water floor panels to paintings done by local artists. Also included in the visitor center were sculptures, artifacts, a movie theater that played a documentary of Jackson Hole and The Grand Tetons, useful and interesting information on every wall, in addition to a book where visitors could pledge their signature to preserve The Grand Teton National Park. This particular visitor center also had an extensive gift shop full of wonderful books and other learning material, as well as an area designated for purchasing permits. Although, my favorite part of the center was the gigantic windows, allowing visitors to see a lovely view of the Grand Tetons.
Once we made our way back to the motel, we were given more time to catch up on homework. Before I knew it, it was time for dinner in the parking lot again where we debriefed our simple but productive day. I then decided to call a friend whom I met in Alaska this summer and was very happy to hear from them. Soon it was off to bed for some shut eye in order to rest up for our big day at the Teton Science School tomorrow.



Courtney Mullin

Coming back to ECOEE, I expected to really be slowing the group down because of my lack of being in the backcountry. I expected that while I was home, the group would have gained technical skills, worked a lot on communication, developed a very organized process, and be running like a well-oiled machine. I felt as if my return would be like throwing a wrench into the gears of that machine. I thought I would be WAY behind and would cause the group frustration as they tried to help me learn all the new skills and processes they had developed. I came to realize now that my expectations were very wrong.
The group may have developed many technical skills in the backcountry, but I forgot to think about the fact that they are now in a transition period too. Organization was almost non-existant and it seemed as if everyone has forgotten about the front country process. Missing most of the backcountry may be to my advantage. I now have an opportunity to be a true leader by helping the group in their transition back into the front country life. Now is the time for less talk and more action. We still have many exciting activities ahead and I will motivate the group by reminding them how to be facilitators of the day with an organized plan and positive attitude.

Ryan DeBoer

Coming back to ECOEE, I expected to really be slowing the group down because of my lack of being in the backcountry. I expected that while I was home, the group would have gained technical skills, worked a lot on communication, developed a very organized process, and be running like a well-oiled machine. I felt as if my return would be like throwing a wrench into the gears of that machine. I thought I would be WAY behind and would cause the group frustration as they tried to help me learn all the new skills and processes they had developed. I came to realize now that my expectations were very wrong.
The group may have developed many technical skills in the backcountry, but I forgot to think about the fact that they are now in a transition period too. Organization was almost non-existant and it seemed as if everyone has forgotten about the front country process. Missing most of the backcountry may be to my advantage. I now have an opportunity to be a true leader by helping the group in their transition back into the front country life. Now is the time for less talk and more action. We still have many exciting activities ahead and I will motivate the group by reminding them how to be facilitators of the day with an organized plan and positive attitude.

Ryan DeBoer

Oh a warm cozy bed how I missed thee! After getting out of the backcountry and sleeping in a hotel I have been sleeping like a baby. The past two days have spoiled us with warm rooms, large beds, laundered cloths, steaming hot showers, but most importantly the meals that you don’t have to add water too. But today would be a very important day for the group, we would do what we could only dream of in the backcountry-eat at a Chinese Buffet. This would have some consequences to some of us later, me being one of them, but it was totally worth it nonetheless.
After living up the dream a few of us had to go grocery shopping for the food that would last us for the trip in the Grand Tetons. With much food left over from the backcountry we were again under budget, how good it feels. Next stop was trying to find another home. Ours plans to stay at the local park were spoiled when we found out that the bathrooms were closed. I don’t think that Lander would appreciate cat holes or latrines dug at the local park, especially after we hit up a Chinese Buffet. The FOD, who happened to be Ooter, decided to stay at another motel-Whoopee!
Once things were organized and motel rooms were found the Chinese food began to get the best of me. I began to think that it was not a dream but a nightmare! Guess Chinese food was still too early for my stomach! After lying down for a while and watching some “Heroes” the stomach pain started to subside. All except for the stomach pain the day turned out to me a very relaxing day, which I always enjoy when we get the chance.

-Stephen Gilbert

Oh a warm cozy bed how I missed thee! After getting out of the backcountry and sleeping in a hotel I have been sleeping like a baby. The past two days have spoiled us with warm rooms, large beds, laundered cloths, steaming hot showers, but most importantly the meals that you don’t have to add water too. But today would be a very important day for the group, we would do what we could only dream of in the backcountry-eat at a Chinese Buffet. This would have some consequences to some of us later, me being one of them, but it was totally worth it nonetheless.
After living up the dream a few of us had to go grocery shopping for the food that would last us for the trip in the Grand Tetons. With much food left over from the backcountry we were again under budget, how good it feels. Next stop was trying to find another home. Ours plans to stay at the local park were spoiled when we found out that the bathrooms were closed. I don’t think that Lander would appreciate cat holes or latrines dug at the local park, especially after we hit up a Chinese Buffet. The FOD, who happened to be Ooter, decided to stay at another motel-Whoopee!
Once things were organized and motel rooms were found the Chinese food began to get the best of me. I began to think that it was not a dream but a nightmare! Guess Chinese food was still too early for my stomach! After lying down for a while and watching some “Heroes” the stomach pain started to subside. All except for the stomach pain the day turned out to me a very relaxing day, which I always enjoy when we get the chance.

-Stephen Gilbert

Rise and shine on the trail again ya’ll. This hike is cross country but oh my, will it be a walk in the park compared to the hellish hike of yesterday. Ride the contour to the promise land group Good Hair Day. A few tedious stream crossings made easy by the teamwork of the fantastic four. Uncertainty takes us to the top of a plateau. I scout ten minutes ahead and scold myself for going cross country during hunting season and wearing all tan. I swiftly run back and figure it’s the wrong way. We tackle a devilish hill and find ourselves five minutes from our campsite. We set camp and began to feast as the snow accumulates all around our blue tarpped sanctuary. We wasted the rest of the afternoon away with light conversation and love for nature. We retire to our tent at a modest 6:45. Ooter and I are concerned we need some Geratol for our old decrepit selves.

Jake Yard

Rise and shine on the trail again ya’ll. This hike is cross country but oh my, will it be a walk in the park compared to the hellish hike of yesterday. Ride the contour to the promise land group Good Hair Day. A few tedious stream crossings made easy by the teamwork of the fantastic four. Uncertainty takes us to the top of a plateau. I scout ten minutes ahead and scold myself for going cross country during hunting season and wearing all tan. I swiftly run back and figure it’s the wrong way. We tackle a devilish hill and find ourselves five minutes from our campsite. We set camp and began to feast as the snow accumulates all around our blue tarpped sanctuary. We wasted the rest of the afternoon away with light conversation and love for nature. We retire to our tent at a modest 6:45. Ooter and I are concerned we need some Geratol for our old decrepit selves.

Jake Yard

Emilie Litow//10-07-08

 

It is our first day of final and Ooter, Jake, Courtney, and I are ready to roll. We beat the other camp and were on our way to Echo Lake seven miles away. After sugar, honey fry bread for breakfast, we were on our way. We went up and down switchbacks all day, but our moods remained high. We were all laughing at our random jokes as we hiked the hardest switchback using the Rocky Mountain Rest Step. We had three causalities along the way. Jake lost his hat, and Courtney lost a shoe and her hat. Hopefully, those are our only causalities. We rested on the sandy beach where we had done evaluations and admired the beauty all around us. When we finally arrived at camp, we destroyed the fire ring, fixed everything soup, and falafel cakes with cream cheese. We stuffed our faces and groaning bellies. The bear hang was the best part of the day. We broke four limbs, almost decapitating myself with one of them. I was laughing so hard I about peed myself and I was not the only one. After our bear hang was done, we all went down to Baer Lake to look at a moon so bright and beautiful it can not be described in words. I was completely awestruck by the simplicity of its beauty. I felt so small standing there underneath the moon. We soon said our goodnights; Courtney and I left the boys dangling their feet above the water with the waves barely touching their feet. Courtney and I stayed up laughing and talking until we fell off to sleep. The day was long but filled with laughter and those are the best kind of days!

Emilie Litow//10-07-08

 

It is our first day of final and Ooter, Jake, Courtney, and I are ready to roll. We beat the other camp and were on our way to Echo Lake seven miles away. After sugar, honey fry bread for breakfast, we were on our way. We went up and down switchbacks all day, but our moods remained high. We were all laughing at our random jokes as we hiked the hardest switchback using the Rocky Mountain Rest Step. We had three causalities along the way. Jake lost his hat, and Courtney lost a shoe and her hat. Hopefully, those are our only causalities. We rested on the sandy beach where we had done evaluations and admired the beauty all around us. When we finally arrived at camp, we destroyed the fire ring, fixed everything soup, and falafel cakes with cream cheese. We stuffed our faces and groaning bellies. The bear hang was the best part of the day. We broke four limbs, almost decapitating myself with one of them. I was laughing so hard I about peed myself and I was not the only one. After our bear hang was done, we all went down to Baer Lake to look at a moon so bright and beautiful it can not be described in words. I was completely awestruck by the simplicity of its beauty. I felt so small standing there underneath the moon. We soon said our goodnights; Courtney and I left the boys dangling their feet above the water with the waves barely touching their feet. Courtney and I stayed up laughing and talking until we fell off to sleep. The day was long but filled with laughter and those are the best kind of days!

Today the group almost blew our chance of completing a final in the backcountry. We were scheduled to have a meeting at 8:30 this morning at my tent group’s campsite to discuss expectations of final, but it didn’t go as smoothly as I had anticipated. Apparently, Jeff and Rose arrived at our site fifteen minutes early and were extremely disappointed, as well as angry, to find our kitchen a mess with none of us in sight. We four had just started crawling out of our sleeping bags with only a few minutes to spare, but enough in our opinion, in order to make it to the meeting on time. It turned out to be a very poor decision on our part because Jeff and Rose had now lost trust in the group due to our lazy expedition behavior. My group realized we had messed up big time, and spent the rest of the morning convincing Jeff and Rose that we were prepared and responsible enough to hike back to Worthen Meadows on our own for five days. Plus, we all really wanted to experience being on our own and prove to ourselves that we could successfully do it. Thankfully Jeff and Rose gave us a second chance, and allowed us to begin planning our final expedition with our new cook/tent groups.

It was still pretty darn cold outside at this point, so Ooter, Emilie, Jake and I put on extra layers, boiled some water for hot drinks, and snuggled up next to one another in our sleeping bags on top of a nice flat rock to plan our final expedition adventure. We got right to business, marking our routes for the next five days and creating time and energy control plans for each day. The four of us also had to come up with escape routes, alternative campsites, and lessons to teach the rest of our cook group.

Because our group did so well by staying focused and completing a TEC plan, we felt it was time for a lunch break. Potato pearl soup was on the menu, so we hydrated some veggies, cut some cheese, and added just the right amount of spices to the soup. It was time to add the potato pearls so Jake poured what he thought appeared to be potato pearls into the pot. He and I began stirring but couldn’t figure out why the consistency was still brothy and not thick. Ooter and Emilie gave the soup a try and were disgusted to taste lemon instead of potatoes. Jake and I had made the innocent mistake of pouring lemonade mix rather than potato pearls into the soup. As horrible, yet funny the situation was, we did not want to waste all of that food, so Emilie, Jake and I manned-up and drank the concoction of vegetables, beef bouillon, chili powder, and lemonade. I’ve never felt a sensation quite like it, which made me want to throw up but continue laughing at the same time. Ooter quickly took over and prepared an actual potato soup that turned out wonderfully.

The rest of the afternoon flew by as we completed the remainder of our TEC plans. Jeff and Rose looked them over to make sure they were accurate, and gave us some last minute advice while wishing us fun and safe travels for final. Later on that night, we went over to the other tent group’s site to wish them the same and bid them farewell. After spending every day with the entire group, it will definitely be weird these next few days without them. Each individual will be missed, but we will reunite soon enough with exciting stories to share with one another.

Courtney Mullin

Today the group almost blew our chance of completing a final in the backcountry. We were scheduled to have a meeting at 8:30 this morning at my tent group’s campsite to discuss expectations of final, but it didn’t go as smoothly as I had anticipated. Apparently, Jeff and Rose arrived at our site fifteen minutes early and were extremely disappointed, as well as angry, to find our kitchen a mess with none of us in sight. We four had just started crawling out of our sleeping bags with only a few minutes to spare, but enough in our opinion, in order to make it to the meeting on time. It turned out to be a very poor decision on our part because Jeff and Rose had now lost trust in the group due to our lazy expedition behavior. My group realized we had messed up big time, and spent the rest of the morning convincing Jeff and Rose that we were prepared and responsible enough to hike back to Worthen Meadows on our own for five days. Plus, we all really wanted to experience being on our own and prove to ourselves that we could successfully do it. Thankfully Jeff and Rose gave us a second chance, and allowed us to begin planning our final expedition with our new cook/tent groups.

It was still pretty darn cold outside at this point, so Ooter, Emilie, Jake and I put on extra layers, boiled some water for hot drinks, and snuggled up next to one another in our sleeping bags on top of a nice flat rock to plan our final expedition adventure. We got right to business, marking our routes for the next five days and creating time and energy control plans for each day. The four of us also had to come up with escape routes, alternative campsites, and lessons to teach the rest of our cook group.

Because our group did so well by staying focused and completing a TEC plan, we felt it was time for a lunch break. Potato pearl soup was on the menu, so we hydrated some veggies, cut some cheese, and added just the right amount of spices to the soup. It was time to add the potato pearls so Jake poured what he thought appeared to be potato pearls into the pot. He and I began stirring but couldn’t figure out why the consistency was still brothy and not thick. Ooter and Emilie gave the soup a try and were disgusted to taste lemon instead of potatoes. Jake and I had made the innocent mistake of pouring lemonade mix rather than potato pearls into the soup. As horrible, yet funny the situation was, we did not want to waste all of that food, so Emilie, Jake and I manned-up and drank the concoction of vegetables, beef bouillon, chili powder, and lemonade. I’ve never felt a sensation quite like it, which made me want to throw up but continue laughing at the same time. Ooter quickly took over and prepared an actual potato soup that turned out wonderfully.

The rest of the afternoon flew by as we completed the remainder of our TEC plans. Jeff and Rose looked them over to make sure they were accurate, and gave us some last minute advice while wishing us fun and safe travels for final. Later on that night, we went over to the other tent group’s site to wish them the same and bid them farewell. After spending every day with the entire group, it will definitely be weird these next few days without them. Each individual will be missed, but we will reunite soon enough with exciting stories to share with one another.

Courtney Mullin

Just like every morning my alarm clock went off at 5:49am, only today I couldn’t fall back asleep for fifteen more minutes. Lately we all have been embarking on our hikes a little too late, so today my group was determined to be on time. We made breakfast, filtered water, and packed all of our belongings in record time but somehow still managed to hit the trail ten minutes later than planned. But hey, we’re improving.
The past couple of days we encountered some pretty unpleasant weather, but today was absolutely beautiful. Throughout the entire hike I was dazed in awe from the spectacular scenery. It seemed like every few minutes I stumbled over rocks or tree limbs from gazing around wondrously. The reflections of the snow capped mountains, bright blue sky, and lodge pole pines in the lake were incredibly surreal; I felt like I was in a painting. Being in the Wind River Mountains makes me feel as though I’m in a fantasyland. The air is as clean and refreshing as a cold glass of water with a popsicle on the side during a hot summer day. Even the steep contours are worth every step because the ambiance of the Winds is just so amazing, yet indescribable.
Once Josh, Emilie, Ooter, and I made it to our destination of Bear Lake, we set up camp and prepared for an afternoon full of lessons. The majority of the group, including myself, procrastinated and waited until the last day possible to teach our lessons. It was pretty irresponsible of us, but I figure you live and learn, and hopefully we will all have stellar lessons to give during our time in the next two ecosystems.
The night was coming to an end as my tent group and I cooked dinner. We enjoyed delicious calzones under a starry sky having great conversation about family members we love and miss. Soon after, we quickly cleaned up and followed the moonlit path to our cozy tents for some sweet dreams.

Courtney Mullin

Just like every morning my alarm clock went off at 5:49am, only today I couldn’t fall back asleep for fifteen more minutes. Lately we all have been embarking on our hikes a little too late, so today my group was determined to be on time. We made breakfast, filtered water, and packed all of our belongings in record time but somehow still managed to hit the trail ten minutes later than planned. But hey, we’re improving.
The past couple of days we encountered some pretty unpleasant weather, but today was absolutely beautiful. Throughout the entire hike I was dazed in awe from the spectacular scenery. It seemed like every few minutes I stumbled over rocks or tree limbs from gazing around wondrously. The reflections of the snow capped mountains, bright blue sky, and lodge pole pines in the lake were incredibly surreal; I felt like I was in a painting. Being in the Wind River Mountains makes me feel as though I’m in a fantasyland. The air is as clean and refreshing as a cold glass of water with a popsicle on the side during a hot summer day. Even the steep contours are worth every step because the ambiance of the Winds is just so amazing, yet indescribable.
Once Josh, Emilie, Ooter, and I made it to our destination of Bear Lake, we set up camp and prepared for an afternoon full of lessons. The majority of the group, including myself, procrastinated and waited until the last day possible to teach our lessons. It was pretty irresponsible of us, but I figure you live and learn, and hopefully we will all have stellar lessons to give during our time in the next two ecosystems.
The night was coming to an end as my tent group and I cooked dinner. We enjoyed delicious calzones under a starry sky having great conversation about family members we love and miss. Soon after, we quickly cleaned up and followed the moonlit path to our cozy tents for some sweet dreams.

Courtney Mullin

Tap, tap, tap was the sound on the tent when I woke up. Today was a cold day, the coldest day so far. Luckily for me I was not Jake who had to make the decision whether or no we had to hike or stay. After much consideration Jake make the tough decision to stay at Papoose Lake. With snow blowing, toes frozen, and hands numb I couldn’t be happier. With time to spend in my Journal, my interpretation, any my thoughts it was good personal time in the tent. Well, good personal time when Jake and Derek were asleep. After they woke up we had tent dance parties, tattooing, discussions on weather, food (mostly steak) and most importantly Jake and his hobbit feet. After all that Derek and I have both agreed that if we have to spend one more whole day in a tent with Jake we are going to go crazy. It was a good learning experience on how to handle a person with some severe A.D.D.
With hours passing in the tent hunger began to take hold. With much discussion of what we were going to have while we were in our sleeping bags we finally make the initiative to cook, macaroni in a cheese sauce- yum yum! After killing a whole pan we jumped back into the tent only to snuggle into our sleeping bags. It was not long before I started to doze off, so I turned off my headlamp and we to bed.

-Stephen Gilbert

Tap, tap, tap was the sound on the tent when I woke up. Today was a cold day, the coldest day so far. Luckily for me I was not Jake who had to make the decision whether or no we had to hike or stay. After much consideration Jake make the tough decision to stay at Papoose Lake. With snow blowing, toes frozen, and hands numb I couldn’t be happier. With time to spend in my Journal, my interpretation, any my thoughts it was good personal time in the tent. Well, good personal time when Jake and Derek were asleep. After they woke up we had tent dance parties, tattooing, discussions on weather, food (mostly steak) and most importantly Jake and his hobbit feet. After all that Derek and I have both agreed that if we have to spend one more whole day in a tent with Jake we are going to go crazy. It was a good learning experience on how to handle a person with some severe A.D.D.
With hours passing in the tent hunger began to take hold. With much discussion of what we were going to have while we were in our sleeping bags we finally make the initiative to cook, macaroni in a cheese sauce- yum yum! After killing a whole pan we jumped back into the tent only to snuggle into our sleeping bags. It was not long before I started to doze off, so I turned off my headlamp and we to bed.

-Stephen Gilbert

With Rose feeling better we were on the trail again today! Even though it wasn’t for long it was still a nice hike, with some great scenery. When the weather started to roll in Steve the Leader of the Day made the call to stop early at Papoose Lake. Though it was only one mile from our original destination I wish we would have continued farther. Although if we didn’t stop the other group would not have found the “Bat Cave” which they would call home for the night. After setting up camp it was lesson time. Leave No Trace with Derek, Ryan’s Plant Communities introduction, then Jeff had saved the best for last. Gender issues. . . . . yeah. . .there is nothing quite like talking about those changing years with your instructors. That was a bit awkward to say the least, after a long talk with a lot of awkward silences the lessons were done and it was time to debrief. Steve used a creative way with cards; he gave out three types, Queens, Kings, and Aces. Queens stood for questions, Kings stood for comments, and Aces could say whatever they wanted. After a dinner of pasta a cheese sauce and Youker with Rose, Ooter, and Jake, it was time for bed.

With Rose feeling better we were on the trail again today! Even though it wasn’t for long it was still a nice hike, with some great scenery. When the weather started to roll in Steve the Leader of the Day made the call to stop early at Papoose Lake. Though it was only one mile from our original destination I wish we would have continued farther. Although if we didn’t stop the other group would not have found the “Bat Cave” which they would call home for the night. After setting up camp it was lesson time. Leave No Trace with Derek, Ryan’s Plant Communities introduction, then Jeff had saved the best for last. Gender issues. . . . . yeah. . .there is nothing quite like talking about those changing years with your instructors. That was a bit awkward to say the least, after a long talk with a lot of awkward silences the lessons were done and it was time to debrief. Steve used a creative way with cards; he gave out three types, Queens, Kings, and Aces. Queens stood for questions, Kings stood for comments, and Aces could say whatever they wanted. After a dinner of pasta a cheese sauce and Youker with Rose, Ooter, and Jake, it was time for bed.

Today was a day that was set aside so that Rose could recover and improve on feeling better from her flue experience. Feel better soon Rose! The day also featured two lessons from Jeff and breaking up a few fire pits. The group accomplished removing at least two or three fire pits and after that we had the choice to work on whatever we so chose too. I wound up working on a couple of my Outdoor Education lessons while a few other members of my tent group slept. The spirit of Paul Petzoldt hid our food bags although I think he could have hid them better. (cough)!!!! The night ended with talk about the Blair Witch Project movie and believe it or not it was fitting because Steve, Derek, Jake and I actually became lost in the woods after hanging up our bear bag. Talk about a real fine great day!!!!


Ryan Schaible

Today was a day that was set aside so that Rose could recover and improve on feeling better from her flue experience. Feel better soon Rose! The day also featured two lessons from Jeff and breaking up a few fire pits. The group accomplished removing at least two or three fire pits and after that we had the choice to work on whatever we so chose too. I wound up working on a couple of my Outdoor Education lessons while a few other members of my tent group slept. The spirit of Paul Petzoldt hid our food bags although I think he could have hid them better. (cough)!!!! The night ended with talk about the Blair Witch Project movie and believe it or not it was fitting because Steve, Derek, Jake and I actually became lost in the woods after hanging up our bear bag. Talk about a real fine great day!!!!


Ryan Schaible

Oh joy, the last two evaluations. Time to hike again!
Feels good to be back on the trail. Almost two miles into or trek to the Lizard Head Meadows and we run into a panicked Jeff with no Rose. He informed us that Rose is up the trail a ways feeling dizzy and puking the water she drinks. We catch up with her after stomping through a creek. She was still in high spirits but I definitely noticed flu like symptoms. Although she was in good spirits we decided to stop there and set up camp to give her a day to rest. We used the rest of the day to our own advantage by reading, working on schoolwork and simply relaxing to the sounds of nature. Later in the day we debriefed and went over how we handled the situation. Jeff seemed really pleased with us but still gave us some pointers to improve on.
Early night, delicious calzones and a lesson plan done. Hope Rose feels better in the morning…

Derek Hofeldt

Oh joy, the last two evaluations. Time to hike again!
Feels good to be back on the trail. Almost two miles into or trek to the Lizard Head Meadows and we run into a panicked Jeff with no Rose. He informed us that Rose is up the trail a ways feeling dizzy and puking the water she drinks. We catch up with her after stomping through a creek. She was still in high spirits but I definitely noticed flu like symptoms. Although she was in good spirits we decided to stop there and set up camp to give her a day to rest. We used the rest of the day to our own advantage by reading, working on schoolwork and simply relaxing to the sounds of nature. Later in the day we debriefed and went over how we handled the situation. Jeff seemed really pleased with us but still gave us some pointers to improve on.
Early night, delicious calzones and a lesson plan done. Hope Rose feels better in the morning…

Derek Hofeldt

Another day of evals, OH BOY! Up early again and right back into my sleeping bag, only a few hundred yards away. Here we go again, the tedious process of evaluation on the 18 point curriculum would be repeated four times. Derek, Ryan S., Courtney, and Jake would go and after that bath time! It was nice, 40 degree water was cold, but being clean felt great. After ditching my nasty smell for a new pepperminty one it was time to go back up to camp. Tonights dinner was a calzone, then it was off to bed.

Another day of evals, OH BOY! Up early again and right back into my sleeping bag, only a few hundred yards away. Here we go again, the tedious process of evaluation on the 18 point curriculum would be repeated four times. Derek, Ryan S., Courtney, and Jake would go and after that bath time! It was nice, 40 degree water was cold, but being clean felt great. After ditching my nasty smell for a new pepperminty one it was time to go back up to camp. Tonights dinner was a calzone, then it was off to bed.

Oh dear, first day of evals and I am first! All-in all it really wasn’t that bad. I waited 45 minutes to talk to Jeff and Rose during that time I reflected deeply about my abilities and myself as a leader. What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses? Man what a list. When Jeff called me over I was ready to face the Tindall Bear. We discussed what I really expected to hear. With the last advice that they told me was the best news to my ears, “Go do some laundry and take a shower.” With one of the coldest showers that my body has ever know I felt like a new person. As I waited for the group to discuss my abilities as a leader I noticed a I had a lot of free time. I did laundry, took a shower, ate lunch, did some of my journals, thought about my interpretation topic, and even took an hour and a half nap.
When the group told me that they were ready I prepared myself for the worst, but surprisingly they told me what Jeff, Rose, and I already talked about. It was funny how well the two correlated with each other; guess it really is that noticeable. After I was done being evaluated it was Ooter’s turn. I know knew why it took so long to do my evaluation. We sat down in a circle and discussed every question on the page and gave examples until the group came to a consensus on what number the person should get. We didn’t spend as nearly as long on Ooter as they did with me ( I was seven hours while Ooter was only five).
When it was time to sit Ooter in front of the group and discuss our evaluation of him we all noticed that he was clean too, he must have gotten the same wonderful advice that I received from Jeff and Rose. After Ooter’s evaluation Derek, who was Leader of the Day, decided not to do another one since it was already 7 pm. He feared that we would be even later than Ooter’s and mine because we would be cooking and not many people would be fully involved in the evaluation. I think Derek made the right decision! It was soon time for a pizza dinner and off to bed, we needed to get plenty of sleep for tomorrow because we still have six more people to evaluate.

-Stephen Gilbert

Oh dear, first day of evals and I am first! All-in all it really wasn’t that bad. I waited 45 minutes to talk to Jeff and Rose during that time I reflected deeply about my abilities and myself as a leader. What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses? Man what a list. When Jeff called me over I was ready to face the Tindall Bear. We discussed what I really expected to hear. With the last advice that they told me was the best news to my ears, “Go do some laundry and take a shower.” With one of the coldest showers that my body has ever know I felt like a new person. As I waited for the group to discuss my abilities as a leader I noticed a I had a lot of free time. I did laundry, took a shower, ate lunch, did some of my journals, thought about my interpretation topic, and even took an hour and a half nap.
When the group told me that they were ready I prepared myself for the worst, but surprisingly they told me what Jeff, Rose, and I already talked about. It was funny how well the two correlated with each other; guess it really is that noticeable. After I was done being evaluated it was Ooter’s turn. I know knew why it took so long to do my evaluation. We sat down in a circle and discussed every question on the page and gave examples until the group came to a consensus on what number the person should get. We didn’t spend as nearly as long on Ooter as they did with me ( I was seven hours while Ooter was only five).
When it was time to sit Ooter in front of the group and discuss our evaluation of him we all noticed that he was clean too, he must have gotten the same wonderful advice that I received from Jeff and Rose. After Ooter’s evaluation Derek, who was Leader of the Day, decided not to do another one since it was already 7 pm. He feared that we would be even later than Ooter’s and mine because we would be cooking and not many people would be fully involved in the evaluation. I think Derek made the right decision! It was soon time for a pizza dinner and off to bed, we needed to get plenty of sleep for tomorrow because we still have six more people to evaluate.

-Stephen Gilbert

“Re-supply Day!”
Up, down, up, down all the way to Pinto Park 2 ¾ miles through the woods of the Popo Agie Wilderness. At Pinto Park we discussed the mourning hike, played games and caught up on paperwork while waiting for the horse packer to bring us enough food to last us our last 15 days in the backcountry. When the horse packer finally arrived we all acted like kids on Christmas Morning. We were all so excited to see all that food, especially Steve and Josh when they saw the amount of cheese they had coming to them. Mmm, cheese! Re-supply seemed fast and easy. After everyone was stocked up and packed we split into separate hiking groups. Jeff and Rose took off while the rest of us filtered water and shortly took off behind them. Down, down, down the North Fork trail zigging and zagging down the steep slopes eventually arriving at a spectacular area to set up camp. This was one of the most scenic campsites yet. That night we got together with everybody to go over mid-coarse evaluations that will be taking place in the next two or three days. It’s a good thing we can stay in one spot for a couple days since we have 18 to 25 extra pounds of food. We capped the night off with a feast and a strawberry cheesecake for dessert. A full belly equals a good night sleep.
Zzzzzzz
Derek Hofeldt

“Re-supply Day!”
Up, down, up, down all the way to Pinto Park 2 ¾ miles through the woods of the Popo Agie Wilderness. At Pinto Park we discussed the mourning hike, played games and caught up on paperwork while waiting for the horse packer to bring us enough food to last us our last 15 days in the backcountry. When the horse packer finally arrived we all acted like kids on Christmas Morning. We were all so excited to see all that food, especially Steve and Josh when they saw the amount of cheese they had coming to them. Mmm, cheese! Re-supply seemed fast and easy. After everyone was stocked up and packed we split into separate hiking groups. Jeff and Rose took off while the rest of us filtered water and shortly took off behind them. Down, down, down the North Fork trail zigging and zagging down the steep slopes eventually arriving at a spectacular area to set up camp. This was one of the most scenic campsites yet. That night we got together with everybody to go over mid-coarse evaluations that will be taking place in the next two or three days. It’s a good thing we can stay in one spot for a couple days since we have 18 to 25 extra pounds of food. We capped the night off with a feast and a strawberry cheesecake for dessert. A full belly equals a good night sleep.
Zzzzzzz
Derek Hofeldt

Upon the awakening at 5 am and a great ascent only an hour away, the dark sky, the bright beautiful stars, the stage was set for a spectacular great day of hiking Wind River Peak. An early mistake on my behalf of the correct direction to hike up, soon Derek led the way and up the Rocky mountain terrain we went. It was a true definite test of moral, group dynamics, and proper decision-making in ascending this 13,000 foot plus peak. Through many twists and turns and stops up along the way all of us soon saw the top of Wind River Peak, yet there was just a few hundred feet to go. All of us took part in lessons along the way from Jeff including the rocky mountain rest step, and how to step up and over moats in the mountain hillside slope. Amidst the sore feet we finally made it to the top of Wind River Peak. The instantaneous bird’s eye view set the stage for a collaboration of jaw dropping beauty and respect for such an amazing wonder of the Wind River Range. After reading what other’s had written upon ascending this 13eener over the years and how we added to this momento set the stage for an outdoor education lesson atop of this windy high peak. A few hours later we were back within the Deep Creek Lakes area and after discussing whether or not to keep on hiking after a day of ascending and coming down the peak we all took a consensus to rest our bodies and recover for the day. The day was a huge success and set the upcoming stage for the next day of even more challenging experiences.

Ryan Schaible

Upon the awakening at 5 am and a great ascent only an hour away, the dark sky, the bright beautiful stars, the stage was set for a spectacular great day of hiking Wind River Peak. An early mistake on my behalf of the correct direction to hike up, soon Derek led the way and up the Rocky mountain terrain we went. It was a true definite test of moral, group dynamics, and proper decision-making in ascending this 13,000 foot plus peak. Through many twists and turns and stops up along the way all of us soon saw the top of Wind River Peak, yet there was just a few hundred feet to go. All of us took part in lessons along the way from Jeff including the rocky mountain rest step, and how to step up and over moats in the mountain hillside slope. Amidst the sore feet we finally made it to the top of Wind River Peak. The instantaneous bird’s eye view set the stage for a collaboration of jaw dropping beauty and respect for such an amazing wonder of the Wind River Range. After reading what other’s had written upon ascending this 13eener over the years and how we added to this momento set the stage for an outdoor education lesson atop of this windy high peak. A few hours later we were back within the Deep Creek Lakes area and after discussing whether or not to keep on hiking after a day of ascending and coming down the peak we all took a consensus to rest our bodies and recover for the day. The day was a huge success and set the upcoming stage for the next day of even more challenging experiences.

Ryan Schaible

Up and at em’ ol’ boys! The broken record unspoken statement of the early morn! Another glorious hike with my tent group, my pals, my comrades. Uphill, downhill all the levels in between. Stops for funny statements placed under carans, down slow too much keep on truckin’! Ambiguity shrieks from the duck tapped fencepost at heaven’s lake. Ridiculously superb backdrops, is this hike so surreal, so surreal I’m still dreaming. “Oh hello again!” We stated to the group coming up the trail behind us. Lets make the stream crossing together friends. Snowball fights and more uphill. Follow the leader now if you will. Don’t look now but we’ve ventured to far, stop for ascent, my pack hit a rock my butt hit the ground and stuck like tar. Their folks gaze yonder up the hillside straight. 9,10,11 elk gallivanting leisurely isn’t that great. Back up the hillside isn’t that great. Back up the trail 90-degree turn up the slippery slope, quads feel the burn. Jeff and Rose await at the top, oh what a surprise, if we wouldn’t second guess ourselves we would have beat them guys. Set up camp and learn some knowledge, snowball fight, my socks are damp. Sweaty and tired I retire away after debrief, brief, and afternoon play. Look forward to tomorrow is what I say, cause Wind River Peak E.C.O.E.E. 08’s on our way.

Up and at em’ ol’ boys! The broken record unspoken statement of the early morn! Another glorious hike with my tent group, my pals, my comrades. Uphill, downhill all the levels in between. Stops for funny statements placed under carans, down slow too much keep on truckin’! Ambiguity shrieks from the duck tapped fencepost at heaven’s lake. Ridiculously superb backdrops, is this hike so surreal, so surreal I’m still dreaming. “Oh hello again!” We stated to the group coming up the trail behind us. Lets make the stream crossing together friends. Snowball fights and more uphill. Follow the leader now if you will. Don’t look now but we’ve ventured to far, stop for ascent, my pack hit a rock my butt hit the ground and stuck like tar. Their folks gaze yonder up the hillside straight. 9,10,11 elk gallivanting leisurely isn’t that great. Back up the hillside isn’t that great. Back up the trail 90-degree turn up the slippery slope, quads feel the burn. Jeff and Rose await at the top, oh what a surprise, if we wouldn’t second guess ourselves we would have beat them guys. Set up camp and learn some knowledge, snowball fight, my socks are damp. Sweaty and tired I retire away after debrief, brief, and afternoon play. Look forward to tomorrow is what I say, cause Wind River Peak E.C.O.E.E. 08’s on our way.

“Sarcasm for an angry Rose”
Up and at ‘em. Ready to go at 7:30 on a nearly thousand-foot elevation gain up to the gorgeous Three Forks Park. Jake, Steve Ooter and I took off first about a half an hour before the others. The first half of the hike was a rather intense climb up Pinto Park trail. We had plenty of fry bread done up right to fill our jell-o like legs along the way. After three and a half miles we came to our final cairn (a stack of rocks that indicate a particular point in the trail), take a bearing for our direction of travel, and right as we got done writing the other a corny little note they came stomping up the hill behind us. After a quick hello and buh-bye we were off a gain to find a spot to camp. We get camp set up at Three Lakes Park when Courtney informs us that she shamelessly wants to steal a half an hour from Jeff and Rose. Come 1:30we met in a meadow to go over the duties, skills and quality characteristics needed for affective leadership. We went on to discuss leadership and decision making and then straight into debrief where Rose reiterated her joy and excitement about losing 30 minutes of her day. (If you haven’t caught on to the sarcasm yet, just wait, it gets even thicker) That night a couple of us figured, heck, its dry, its windy, there’s dead wood and dry meadows surrounding us, what better time to have a camp fire… Rose came down to visit and once again shared her joy and excitement about our judgment skills. I have a feeling that there will be no more fires in the backcountry after that incident. A hot cup of cocoa and a slice of cherry cheesecake goodness, then off to bed for all.
Derek Hofeldt

“Sarcasm for an angry Rose”
Up and at ‘em. Ready to go at 7:30 on a nearly thousand-foot elevation gain up to the gorgeous Three Forks Park. Jake, Steve Ooter and I took off first about a half an hour before the others. The first half of the hike was a rather intense climb up Pinto Park trail. We had plenty of fry bread done up right to fill our jell-o like legs along the way. After three and a half miles we came to our final cairn (a stack of rocks that indicate a particular point in the trail), take a bearing for our direction of travel, and right as we got done writing the other a corny little note they came stomping up the hill behind us. After a quick hello and buh-bye we were off a gain to find a spot to camp. We get camp set up at Three Lakes Park when Courtney informs us that she shamelessly wants to steal a half an hour from Jeff and Rose. Come 1:30we met in a meadow to go over the duties, skills and quality characteristics needed for affective leadership. We went on to discuss leadership and decision making and then straight into debrief where Rose reiterated her joy and excitement about losing 30 minutes of her day. (If you haven’t caught on to the sarcasm yet, just wait, it gets even thicker) That night a couple of us figured, heck, its dry, its windy, there’s dead wood and dry meadows surrounding us, what better time to have a camp fire… Rose came down to visit and once again shared her joy and excitement about our judgment skills. I have a feeling that there will be no more fires in the backcountry after that incident. A hot cup of cocoa and a slice of cherry cheesecake goodness, then off to bed for all.
Derek Hofeldt

The Other Perspective-

Oh glorious sleep how much I love you and so do many tent mates. We finally arose around 9:00 a.m. feeling super refreshed and thankful, yet guilty for we knew the other half of our group was well on their way on the toilsome trek to the trailer. Ooter came over and we conversed around our breakfast nook; humble yet adequate. We decide in consensus style which peak to conquer. Once to the top we retired to our own obligations whether that is journals, meditation, or a view that speaks of majestic beauty. We lingered as long as possible at the summit until our stomachs brought us down for a lunchtime snack. After this we started on journals again as some of us bathed, oh boy was that water muy frio yet refreshing. The hiking group arrived back early yet we still decided to have a dinner on us for the tired souls. We had a joyous feast and marveled in the fact that full bellies and warm feet seem to put everyone at ease. As we circled around the fire in the darkness of Wyoming we wond down the night with scary tales and a great bonding experience that offers for sweet dreams and solace for the soul, unless your afraid of songs from P.G. movies. Just kidding! I love ya’ll!

The Other Perspective-

Oh glorious sleep how much I love you and so do many tent mates. We finally arose around 9:00 a.m. feeling super refreshed and thankful, yet guilty for we knew the other half of our group was well on their way on the toilsome trek to the trailer. Ooter came over and we conversed around our breakfast nook; humble yet adequate. We decide in consensus style which peak to conquer. Once to the top we retired to our own obligations whether that is journals, meditation, or a view that speaks of majestic beauty. We lingered as long as possible at the summit until our stomachs brought us down for a lunchtime snack. After this we started on journals again as some of us bathed, oh boy was that water muy frio yet refreshing. The hiking group arrived back early yet we still decided to have a dinner on us for the tired souls. We had a joyous feast and marveled in the fact that full bellies and warm feet seem to put everyone at ease. As we circled around the fire in the darkness of Wyoming we wond down the night with scary tales and a great bonding experience that offers for sweet dreams and solace for the soul, unless your afraid of songs from P.G. movies. Just kidding! I love ya’ll!

Woke up and ran out of the tent, man should not have drank so much water before I went to bed. With gray clouds above I checked in with our local weather man, I just want to make sure our hike was still on. Derek said yes, so I continued on with the packing of my gear. About an hour later Derek came back over to our campsite to discuss a some more serious issue. With a pair of hiking boots forgot at Worthern Meadows our group could not hike any further. This became the groups first serious decision as future outdoor leaders. Should the group all go back? Should just a few go back? How many miles is it? How long is the hike going to take? If we did split where would we meet back up at? With these questions being pondered we came to the consensus to hike out of Bills Park, back up north through his brother, Gills Park, and stay a little north of there. With this being done the four people who are going on ‘operation boot recovery’ will have to travel less distant, but it also puts the group closer to our rendezvouz for food resupply.
As we headed back north to Gills Park we got to again see the landscape and for a brief while it even snowed on us, which added to the beauty. The hike was much easier this time since we headed down hill and at no time we set up our new camp. With a break to get warm Jeff then taught us group roles, and where as individuals we stand according to these roles. After the lesson ended the snow stopped and the sun came out and a quick debrief by Derek ended the day and the night was ours. The group had a fire to warm our bones and some ghost stories were told to creep us out, what a way to end the night.

Woke up and ran out of the tent, man should not have drank so much water before I went to bed. With gray clouds above I checked in with our local weather man, I just want to make sure our hike was still on. Derek said yes, so I continued on with the packing of my gear. About an hour later Derek came back over to our campsite to discuss a some more serious issue. With a pair of hiking boots forgot at Worthern Meadows our group could not hike any further. This became the groups first serious decision as future outdoor leaders. Should the group all go back? Should just a few go back? How many miles is it? How long is the hike going to take? If we did split where would we meet back up at? With these questions being pondered we came to the consensus to hike out of Bills Park, back up north through his brother, Gills Park, and stay a little north of there. With this being done the four people who are going on ‘operation boot recovery’ will have to travel less distant, but it also puts the group closer to our rendezvouz for food resupply.
As we headed back north to Gills Park we got to again see the landscape and for a brief while it even snowed on us, which added to the beauty. The hike was much easier this time since we headed down hill and at no time we set up our new camp. With a break to get warm Jeff then taught us group roles, and where as individuals we stand according to these roles. After the lesson ended the snow stopped and the sun came out and a quick debrief by Derek ended the day and the night was ours. The group had a fire to warm our bones and some ghost stories were told to creep us out, what a way to end the night.

September 21^st, 2008- Ryan Plunkett

 

            Woke up, what a great thing to start the day off.  Gills Park was glorious without the major threat of wind and storms coming in.  The group needed to discuss the problems that have been festering for the past few days that no one else was willing to bring up.  After everyone got what they needed to out in the open problems were discussed and solutions were talked about.  The group was off again to the better brother Bills Park.  On the way we were looking for a non-existent benchmark, we hiked on down the trail and found great campsites after all.  The group had a long lunch that gave us the opportunity to eat something hot and talk about the day before moving into stove repair.  Jeff’s lesson was helpful and interesting to say the least.  It gave us insight on how to repair what is so easily broken with our stoves.  Later I had an amazing three star dump… still no wildlife.  Derek was planning his day while Josh and Ryan cooked an AMAZING meal of Mac, tuna, and cheese OH BOY!  Really not much more to say except I hope that the next day brings more joy than today.

September 21^st, 2008- Ryan Plunkett

 

            Woke up, what a great thing to start the day off.  Gills Park was glorious without the major threat of wind and storms coming in.  The group needed to discuss the problems that have been festering for the past few days that no one else was willing to bring up.  After everyone got what they needed to out in the open problems were discussed and solutions were talked about.  The group was off again to the better brother Bills Park.  On the way we were looking for a non-existent benchmark, we hiked on down the trail and found great campsites after all.  The group had a long lunch that gave us the opportunity to eat something hot and talk about the day before moving into stove repair.  Jeff’s lesson was helpful and interesting to say the least.  It gave us insight on how to repair what is so easily broken with our stoves.  Later I had an amazing three star dump… still no wildlife.  Derek was planning his day while Josh and Ryan cooked an AMAZING meal of Mac, tuna, and cheese OH BOY!  Really not much more to say except I hope that the next day brings more joy than today.

“What a Journey!”
Oh my, what a hike! For some more frustrating than to others. But none the less, all we have to do in a place like this is open our eyes, respect and enjoy our beautiful surroundings.
Say we get lost. So we get lost together with enough strapped to our bags to last us weeks. And we’ve got more than the ten essentials, we got Jeff who seems to know the wind rivers like the back of his hand.
Frustrating days will continue to come and go. Ken Hutchinson said it best “you gotta learn from it, rise above it and laugh a little.” And guess what, after all the frustration, effort, ups and downs, zig-zag-a-di-doos and wrap arounds we made it to our destination with nobody getting hurt!
After setting up camp and cooking some grub to fill our hard working bellies, I went to take a hundred (walking a hundred feet from the site to dig a hole and poo) and where I was pirched on a surprisingly comfortable log I heard a sound that put an ear to ear grin on my face. I heard three or four people laughing hystarically. In my opinion, laughter is the key to happiness and with it one can turn even the gloomiest of all days into a joyful, life long memory. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the view I had and the laughter I heard while dropping a deuce across that amazing meadow… The End

Derek Hofeldt

“What a Journey!”
Oh my, what a hike! For some more frustrating than to others. But none the less, all we have to do in a place like this is open our eyes, respect and enjoy our beautiful surroundings.
Say we get lost. So we get lost together with enough strapped to our bags to last us weeks. And we’ve got more than the ten essentials, we got Jeff who seems to know the wind rivers like the back of his hand.
Frustrating days will continue to come and go. Ken Hutchinson said it best “you gotta learn from it, rise above it and laugh a little.” And guess what, after all the frustration, effort, ups and downs, zig-zag-a-di-doos and wrap arounds we made it to our destination with nobody getting hurt!
After setting up camp and cooking some grub to fill our hard working bellies, I went to take a hundred (walking a hundred feet from the site to dig a hole and poo) and where I was pirched on a surprisingly comfortable log I heard a sound that put an ear to ear grin on my face. I heard three or four people laughing hystarically. In my opinion, laughter is the key to happiness and with it one can turn even the gloomiest of all days into a joyful, life long memory. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the view I had and the laughter I heard while dropping a deuce across that amazing meadow… The End

Derek Hofeldt

As I woke up from time to time through out the morning I kept wondering if Ryan (Schible) was sill going to be in the there in the tent. As 7:00 am approached I woke up to start the day, and was shocked and amazed to see Ryan still there. After breakfast we cleaned and packed the campsite an began to read the chapters we were assigned for our meeting and talk at the Washikie Ranger District. Scott Berkinfield talked to the group and informed us of the five uses of the park, land acquirement, the fire problems the park is experiencing, and budget issues as well with all the above. Scott also informed us of how the third instructor (being Mother Nature) can be very helpful in reminding us what to do and what not to do. After our meeting with Scott was done the group then went to pick up our last remaining supplies for our expedition in the Wind Rivers. After our last snack pick up from Safeway grocery store we headed to the trail head at Worthern Meadows. We were delayed a little because of road construction but that didn’t stop us from learning. Courtney made the decision to do a map lesson while we were waiting. As I the group was getting out of the van I was the lucky chosen one to get stung by the bee who was flying around in the van. I know everyone was jealous because they were not the chosen one but not everyone can be a winner. After learning about the wonderful world of maps we had some free time, which was filled by hiking, bouldering, and my favorite napping. When four o’clock came we got back in the van and continued to drive up to Worthern Meadows. With our Campsite next to a lake, tacos for dinner, and a fire at night I couldn’t think of a better way to end the night.

-Stephen Gilbert