TEA Moms Experience a Typical TEA Student Experience in the Backcountry
This group experienced their fair share of Constructive Adversity moments ranging from steep elevation gains with heavy packs to up and close encounters with black bears.
This past weekend, a group of TEA Moms ventured into Desolation Wilderness to experience a little taste of what TEA Students experience throughout the year. Led by our very own backcountry expert & Elementary School Director Melanie Cooke and TEA Parent / Executive Coach Alexis Robin, these backcountry travelers hiked 16.4 miles with over 4000 feet of elevation gain over the course of 3 days and two nights.
Over the course of the trip, this group experienced their fair share of Constructive Adversity moments ranging from steep elevation gains with heavy packs to up and close encounters with a big black bear. Fortunately, everyone was able to stay in the learning zone and out of the “panic zone” because of Melanie’s deep expertise in the outdoors. This was very similar to what TEA Kids experience on their trips. They are taken way out of their comfort zones but have the safety net of experienced trip leaders to rely on. As a result, they are able to continue learning and leveraging the experience while at the same time courageously facing their fears.
Setting off for Desolation Wilderness at the Glen Alpine trailhead near Fallen Leaf Lake.
everyone had ample time to reflect as they summited Mt. Tallac, swam in two gorgeous alpine lakes, and stargazed before the full moon rose.
Prior to the trip, Alexis worked with the crew to help them identify things in their lives that they wanted to accomplish or improve, and what sorts of obstacles might be in their way. Throughout the hike and during down times around the campsites, Alexis worked with each of the participants both collectively individually. The group used the ample time to reflect as they summited Mt. Tallac, swam in two gorgeous alpine lakes, and stargazed before the full moon rose. Melanie had chosen this particular route (from Glen Alpine Falls to Echo Lake) because of the challenge and scenery.
The women’s backpacking trip was a live auction item at our fundraising event this past spring. The women who participated not only helped raise funds for our school, they also helped strengthen our CommuniTEA and our shared values of stewardship, collaboration, creativity, and perseverance. All while taking in a healthy dose of adventure and Constructive Adversity. We salute these amazing TEA Moms and thank them for their support.
Camping on the shores of Aloha Lake
Wildflowers and spirits were at an all-time high!
The crew summited Mt. Tallac, one of the highest peaks in the Tahoe Basin.
BONUS – Alexis talked about this trip during her weekly life coaching radio show/podcast titled “The Bright Side Radio Show.” Take a listen for even more details on the trip and the work that Alexis did with the group. For more on the work that Alexis does, check out her website here.
