By Laura Huberty and Audrey Lopez
The second trip was Laura Huberty, Gabe Peterson, Jaimie o’Day, Charlie Urbia, Mike Ennis, Geoff Boller, Mike Phelps, Tony Cruikshank, Maya Diedrich, Titus Woodstrom, Audrey Lopez, Staff: Doug, Pauline, and Joanne, Leader: Mark Warren, alumni: Marcelle Dorenkamp.
First Day
We arrived around lunch time, picked our tents and unloaded. The first group was just coming back from the island you have the sweat lodge on. We ate lunch together, said our little “see ya laters,” and they left.
Mark taught us about nearby plants and trees. He taught us how to make rope out of basswood bark, {one of the trees we learned}. Afterwards, we learned a game called Zoogle. It was about time for dinner and Marcelle and Laura were missing. We looked around camp, and even called for them. They had fallen asleep and were just waking up as we were returning for dinner. When it was finally dark everyone gathered in the cabin. Mark shared a few of his songs with us. He taught us a little sign language. It was interesting to learn and it helped us for the last day on the island. On the island we were to be silent.
Second day
On this day we learned to make fire. Some of us succeeded. Others, however, did not. Mark also showed us some stalking techniques and games that were related. That night we had the naming ceremony. Those who chose to get a spirit name, received one. It was probably one of the more serious things we did. It was really meaningful to all of us.
Final Day
The last day, we cleaned up and packed up. This was the day of the sweat lodge. We canoed over to the island. As soon as we stepped out of the canoe we were silent. We had time for a while to ourselves, but soon enough it was time. The majority of us crawled inside the sweat lodge. We all managed to stay in for the whole time. Only inside we could talk, and we were given time to speak our minds. It was a time for thoughts, reflection, and for complete respect.
After, we all headed straight for the river…..refreshment. We went back to eat lunch, play a game, and pack up the last of the gear. Those who have been on this trip would agree that is one that you won’t regret or forget. So, if any of this interested you, I highly recommend it. Too bad it’s not longer.