Post date: Mar 14, 2013 6:47:10 AM
In Wawona tonight with the big group.
All the groups in Wawona (Rotations 3) conquered Chilnualna falls (14 mile and 2000 feet elevation gain), and Alder Falls (14 miles and 2000 feet). At the top of Alder Falls they reported knee-hike snow. Rotation 1 was in the valley for hikes near Yosemite Falls, and then journaling in the meadow. The kids and leaders and all tired and ready for bed.
It is hotter hear than it has every been, but the cross country skiing was still great fun both at Crane Flat and Badger Pass. The sun is hot and sunscreen is must. The temperature was 75 as I drove to Wawona this afternoon.
One chaperone reports that the most beautiful things is that students are making important connections with what they learned and what they can take home. For example, with the theme of the day, "everything has a story", students were making connections the stories that we all carry with us and make us who we are. They are all becoming more aware of the beauty of the park and their responsibility to preserve it for the future. The themes draw deeper meanings from daily experiences.
Tonight I heard about the excellent journals. For some the writing is superb and for others I heard that the journal is ready for framing. The students are taking it all in. They reflect on themes, their feelings and how the week is changing them. I always reflect that the week is transformational for the students and the adults.
The Wawona Hotel is like being on a movie set. The kids enjoy the lawns for games, the verandas for cards and the food in the Victorian dining room. This is an experience they should cherish.
Signing out for the night,
Mary Enright