Auburn Adventist Academy seniors bonded while exploring the barracks of Fort Flagler and enjoying the beauty of the Puget Sound during a retreat in early October. "We had fun mixing with our designated groups," says Michelle Morgan of Port Orchard, Wash. "I got to know people better who I didn't normally hang out with."
"The best part of the trip was exploring and being in nature," adds Karli Fredrickson of Sitka, Alaska.
From the scavenger hunt to the ice cream feed, hikes in the woods to quiet time alone, the senior retreat made an impact. "Fort Flagler helped me slow down from my busy life," says Rachel Coon of Sedro Woolley, Wash. "The retreat gave me a chance to relax and bond with my fellow classmates."
Marvin Mitchell, principal, joined the seniors and sponsors on their Fort Flagler adventure and comments, "The kids played, hiked and walked on the beach. Of course the highlights were the student-led worships, vespers and afterglow. There's just something special about sitting by a fire outside together."
As the Auburn seniors rode the ferry home, they reflected on their retreat. "Our trip gave everyone an opportunity to interact with people they didn't normally know," says Elizabeth Downs of Auburn, Wash. "We became a closer class because of it."
Each year, seniors at Auburn Adventist Academy participate in a bonding weekend retreat. The seniors form the number 10 for the Class of 2010. (K. Wileman)
The "blue" team makes a pyramid as part of Sabbath's scavenger hunt. (K. Wileman)
Kayla Chevalier and Anthony Heinrichs smile together while aboard the ferry on the way home from the AAA senior retreat. (K. Wileman)
