Dingoes: The Dingoes had a week of learning and community building within the group as they practiced their conflict resolution skills. They came together to problem solve some hiking issues and established some new rules to continue moving forward as a group. We enjoyed a week full of sunshine and complete fire busting sets while practicing making fire. We were all surprised when we woke up with a snow covered desert one morning, but we made it through and huddled by the fire enjoying one another’s company.
Gnowees: The Gnowees had a relaxed, but productive week with a small group of students in the West Desert due to Peak Week. We made record time on our hikes; everyone packing up efficiently and hiking hard without complaints. On our layover day, we even decided to do a sunrise day hike up to a small peak next to our campsite and were gifted with a spectacular view. One Gnowee earned their trail name, Joyous Daffodil, and another was honored with the Brightness token. We also spent time learning some new word games and puzzles, all of which the girls solved quickly.
Goannas: The Goannas had a great week filled with peak hikes, cross country hiking adventures, tokens, and trail names. We welcomed two new students this week and the elder students were very helpful and kind. The Goannas are getting very creative with new recipes, building off of each other’s creations. We were lucky enough to celebrate two birthdays this week. One night we had a beautiful bonfire for one of the student’s birthdays. We also summited a mountain top behind our campsite and literally took many of the Goannas to new heights. They were champion hikers and continue to beat their pack up times. The students are also becoming great at busting. The students took the opportunity to reflect on collusion cycles and lifestyle choices during some of our gatherings and have begun leading gatherings for each other. Overall, we laughed and grew in communication and emotional regulation skills!
Brumbies: The Brumbies had a wonderful week where they were challenged on different cross country hikes over various canyons. Members took care to encourage one another and provide companionship throughout each hike. Members were particularly proud and inspired to summit of a peak of 7,500 FT. At the summit, members completed a guided meditation to take the time to pause and enjoy the present moment. Upon reflection and discussion, the Brumbies determined new pillars for their group to include: mindfulness, integrity, respect, and vulnerability. At the conclusion of the week one member was honored with the trail name, Steadfast Banshee,to inspire him to always speak his mind even when it can be difficult.
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Peak Week – Adventure Therapy @ outBACK
This week our students on Peak explored new horizons. We entered new field areas, and introduced climbing as a new hobby for several of our students. The group was extremely efficient and supportive allowing us to maximize our activity time throughout the week. One student conquered his fear of heights, and climbed several routes throughout the week. He said that getting out of his comfort zone is something he intends to practice moving forward. We ended our week with a trip to the Little Sahara Sand Dunes, where we played ultimate Frisbee in the sand.
