LEADing by Learning to . . .

. . . be yourself while also being a member of a diverse group.

. . . carefully traverse across a wire suspended between two trees while someone else controls your safety rope.

. . . collaboratively build a fire with wet wood on snow-covered ground in freezing temperatures.

. . . strategically solve a problem which requires all members of the group to participate with focus and control.

. . . accept and appreciate each others differences realizing that these differences is what makes your group an effective team.

Helen Haunts LEAD

Mr. Margraf, the LEAD faculty leader has limited access to e-mail and his cell reception is spotty at the YMCA Camp Takodah. However, he was able to send us a text update on Wednesday about how they are doing out in the woods of NH.  He'll get us some photos when they return for the weekend.

We are having a blast. The boys have been terrific. 

Monday was indoor-get-to-know-you games. Tuesday was building a snow shelter and starting/maintaining a fire in the middle of the woods. The afternoon was spent designing their connections board and deciding on a team name. They are - Fraternity of the Stealth Corner (FOTC). They had to spell the acronym on a white board using a marker in the middle with sixteen strings off it. Each boy pulled two strings taught and they worked together to write the acronym. Last night (Tuesday night) was singing in front of the fire and they put on a good skit. Today (Wednesday) we hiked around Lake Tully and will do knot tying this afternoon. Tomorrow (Thursday) is the low ropes and high ropes course. 

 We are working with two Irish interns (first time in the states; they are both 21), Marit, and Peter (our leaders). Food and lodging are great except the boys have convinced themselves that a ghost, Helen, resides in our cabin. Doesn't help when I hide in a sleeping bag and scare them when they come back from dinner. All for now!