Energy. Filled the room during the Jubilee Conference two weekends ago, as students from all over arrived to learn about what it means to live out faith in every area of our lives - and in each of our vocations. For me, the best part of the conference was connecting: with good friends from camps, with people who were interested in CCO XD and what we do, with some amazing college students with whom I spent time on a small island, with friends who have supported me from the minute I stepped foot into college, my mentor, and fellow staff members. God has a way of restoring a feeling of belonging and rightness through relationships and Jubilee had that atmosphere to it this year. Learning. When it's about what we are passionate about, it makes us sit still and really take everything in! For me, the WEA conference was a gift. A place where I heard from countless professors and leaders and innovators in the field of outdoor education about their experiences and research. I'm not sure if I was more excited and fascinated by the place (the stunning Colorado Rockies in February) or the people. Both offered a multitude of ideas and creativity, but the people won out for good conversation and a continuing network across the country. Where else can research, fun and learning occur simultaneously? Doing. Returning from the Rockies, now is the time for doing. I've been much more content in my supportive role as an administrator these past few weeks (although, there's been a lot of travel involved) and am again preparing to head out for another trip - this time to the Carolinas. I'll be heading down to hike a section of the AT with students from Ohio Wesleyan University and am excited to grow along with them as we learn together. I'm excited to learn more about them and what they are pursuing...and to do that in the setting of irreplaceable community. Please keep us in your prayers this coming week as we travel, learn about community and hospitality, and share life on the trail. On a side note, I think this catchy tune might become the theme song of the trip. In the words of Old Crow Medicine Show, "I'm heading down south to the land of the pines, Thumbing my way down to North Carolina, Staring up the road, praying that I'll see headlights. Made it down the coast in 17 hours, I'm picking me a bouquet of Dogwood flowers, I'm a holding out to see my baby tonight." From left to right: (1) Speaker Bob Goff, addressing those in attendance at the Jubilee Conference on Sunday morning. (2) The Wilderness Education Association (WEA) hosted their annual conference this year in Estes Park, CO. Professionals from all over the country joined together to hear the latest research in the field, share ideas, and swap great stories between generations of outdoor educators. (3) Climbing Wa-Wa Pichincha in Ecuador, last spring break. Another trip will heading there again next week! (4) One of the many beautiful features of North Carolina, where another group of students will also be heading for spring break this year.
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