Oh, the Flying Squirrels. It never fails that you fill my heart with gratitude, humility, and love. Sunday's outing was a seriously special one.
We met, dropped our potluck food with John Perry (thanks again for your schlepping!), and started our day immediately with action. We had a "menu" of options for the Flying Squirrels to decide what to do with: visiting donkeys and a waterfall, a night hike, a bonfire, hot tub time, talking circle, potluck, etc. After a little coaching, the Flying Squirrels focused their minds together and came up with a solid plan for our day in similar fashion as Aimee and I. One thing that the Squirrels would learn, though, is that about 50% of our plans end up having to get tossed out the window in favor of what is happening in the moment. We call it, The Trail being The Teacher.
We ventured first to the donkeys. The girls pet, walked, and cuddled with these adorable creatures, explored the property (hiking up a waterfall, no big deal!), and appreciated some time in such a peaceful place. The property was full of exciting places to explore, and we spend a solid amount of time getting to know it. I am inspired to go back, as I know there is much more there than I got to see!
After carefully putting away the donkeys, we set on the trail towards Aimee's house. As usual, we shared stories and laughs along the way. At every outing, it feels as if the girls haven't seen each other in a small eternity, and their desire for connecting with each other makes that very apparent. So much of our day was in support of that very idea: Connection.
We connected over a sunset on the deck. We connected by the fire for a gloriously deep check-in. We connected by polar bear plunging into the Salish Sea. We connected in the hot tub for a special, sacred Talking Circle, where we honored each girl's desire to share what was pressing on their heart and mind. We connected over delicious food so generously provided for by our Explorers and their families. We connected. So, so much. I think that's really all the girls wanted, and it was so nice to hold that space for them to do so.
We are looking forward to our final season with the Flying Squirrels! Please be aware of our Spring Graduation weekend (Memorial Day weekend- Saturday, May 27 to Monday, May 29). We will need everyone to be there for our special final weekend together.
With infinite gratitude for these girls,
Hannah
To view a slideshow of our day (including just a few glamour shots that Jackie took with Hannah's camera), click here!
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