M O U N T A I N

Stepping Outside Our Comfort ZonesA NOTE FROM ALISON PETICOLAS RANCH DIRECTOR

Ranch Program Dates

We have lots of opportunities for growth through the adventure activities at camp. In choosing to come to the A/U Ranches we are all embracing what the

sense of adventure has to teach us. I’ve been reading a book called “God of Adventure” by Bruce Dunning, and I loved his statement of this idea, “Purposefully choosing to step outside of your comfort zone to try something new puts you in an amazing position to learn and to grow. ” Absolutely!

We talk a lot at camp about stepping outside our comfort zones and trying new things. Sometimes adventurous experiences are new to us, but it’s also important to recognize different kinds of adventures like reaching out to a new camper and making a new friend or learning how to step into a leadership role.

In addition to all the growth we see during the summer in campers, staff and adult participants, one of the things I love about my job is being part of a community with the full-time Ranch staff as they fully embrace learning and growing. This fall our full-time staff participated in cattle working and roping clinics, completed an Ironman, peaked 14,000 foot mountains, competed in dog agility competitions, took outdoor education courses, competed in Polocrosse Nationals and learned to barefoot waterski. All these activities help keep us focused on stepping outside our comfort zone as well!

This focus benefits camp both spiritually and practically. The staff at A/U brings new ideas and excitement to the Ranch programs, as well as the continued demonstration of Christian Science in action. It keeps us in touch with what we are sharing in our programs. I’m grateful for the growth that goes on year-round at A/U and for the specific “steps of progress” we continue to take.

With much gratitude,

Alison

Adventure Unlimited RANCH NEWS Fal l 2012

Family & Adult Program – 2012Christmas Camp December 21 - 27

Youth Camp Programs – 2013Session 1: Two-Week June 20 - July 4 One-Week June 20 - 27

Session 2: Two-Week July 6 - 20

Session 3: Two-Week July 22 - August 5 One-Week July 22 - 29

Combine any of the sessions listed above for longer programs!

Family & Adult Programs – 2013Co-ed Bible Study April 2 - 6Memorial Service Weekend May 24 - 27Family & Adult Ranching August 10 - 16Cowboy/Cowgirl Camp August 17 - 23 Adult Base Camp August 17 - 23 Christmas Camp December 21 - 27

memo

2012 Youth Camp FruitageIN THEIR OWN WORDS

• A lot of drama was taking place at home and coming to A/U for the first time helped me find peace with whatever goes on.

– RUR Camper

• I am now a stronger student of Christian Science because of A/U Camp!

– SVR Camper

• During the peak climb to Mt. Belford, I experienced difficulty breathing. My fellow campers prayerfully supported me, and I felt completely surrounded by love and at ease.

– RUR Camper

M O U N T A I N m e m o

What Is A Bunkhouse Parent?A NOTE FROM MARY SIPE (pictured: back row, far left)

New EXPERIENCES for growth

From CIT To Bunkhouse BroBY CHRISTIAN HAGENLOCHER (pictured: back row, far right)

This past summer marked my 14th year at the A/U Ranches. As a camper, I experienced many of the programs that Sky Valley and Round-Up have to offer. Then I joined the staff as a Counselor-In-Training (CIT), and ultimately served for eight years as a Counselor.

After graduating from college in 2011, I thought my care-free days of playing all summer in the Arkansas Valley were over. I entered the work force as a high school science teacher, however, I still wanted to be at camp and continue helping young people learn and practice Christian Science in their daily lives. So this past summer I decided to return to A/U as a Bunkhouse Parent.

The first night of camp, a boy in my bunkhouse made the observation that I was “much too young to be a Dad” and insisted on calling me a “Bunkhouse Bro.” The name stuck, and I became an older-brother figure to the young men in my bunkhouse.

This was a wonderful opportunity for me to take my years of experience as a counselor and support the summer staff in meeting the needs of campers on a daily basis. I offered my own insights in meeting challenges they were dealing with at home and in school. Sometimes I’d read a story at night or play the guitar, which gave me the role of being more of an “adult figure”.

If you think your camp days are over, I’d encourage you to reconsider. Whether you have kids of your own, or not, being a Bunkhouse Parent is a blast! It is a chance to experience camp in a whole new way, and continue to share the traditions and the love that’s such an important part of the A/U camp experience.

The experience of being a Bunkhouse Parent (BHP) is one I will always treasure. When my oldest child began attending Sky Valley Ranch at the age of seven, I decided to take advantage of this opportunity. She was surrounded by loving camp counselors, a nurturing practitioner and a wonderful staff, of course, but it was comforting for both of us to have those moments when we could share something exciting or a reassuring hug. I loved watching her make new friends, learn new things and grow in Christian Science.

Watching Christian Science (CS) in action is truly inspirational! When I wasn’t on duty, I was able to study CS and pray for camp. BHPs stay in the cabins with young campers and nurture them as their temporary mother or father. We support their spiritual, mental and physical needs. Being able to love these kids, most of whom we don’t know at the beginning of the session, allows us to provide for them unconditionally. By the end of the two week session, I found it difficult to part with my new children!

This summer I finished another session with my youngest child. While I cherished the closeness with my own child, I also enjoyed new friendships with other campers, staff and counselors, and the hope for the future of Christian Science as these children learn of its potency and usefulness in their lives.

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INTERESTED IN BEING A BUNKHOUSE PARENT?Apply for next summer! Call 888.543.4849 or visit www.adventureunlimited.org/bunkhouseparents.

F A L L 2 0 12Celebrating LEADERSHIP and spiritual service

2012 Program Staff Leadership & Service AwardsAWARD RECIPIENTS INSPIRE AND EXPRESS QUALITIES SHARED BY A/U STAFF

THE CAP ANDREWS AWARD FOR MORAL LEADERSHIPFor outstanding moral leadership in exemplifying the Christian Science way of life to campers and fellow staff members at the Adventure Unlimited Ranches, in keeping with the example of John K. (Cap) Andrews, co-founder and first director of the A/U Ranches.

Katie Clark, Round-Up Ranch Corral Co-Program Head

For many years Katie has been coming to camp, where she has seized the opportunities to challenge herself and grow spiritually. Katie actively pursued leadership positions and humbly accepted mentoring as she grew and improved. As a result, she has grown into an exemplary leader and role model. Most importantly,

Katie, “aflame with divine Love,” shares her passion freely and consistently throughout camp and her life.

Katie is a Senior at Principia College and expects to graduate in December with a B.A. in Biology. She is active in the CS Org and is a Varsity Soccer player.

Justin Sinichko, Round-Up Ranch Corral Co-Program Head

This summer it was evident Justin’s goal was to support others in everything he did. Justin exemplified true leadership not only by his humility, but his spiritual strength, unselfishness and dedication to hard work. He served in various roles including program head, bunkhouse counselor and program staff. In each role he demonstrated

support to his fellow counselors and campers.

Justin graduated from Principia College in 2012. He is presently exploring life in Mississippi and telecommutes to The Mother Church.

THE MARIANNE ANDREWS AWARD FOR SELFLESS SERVICEFor selfless service to campers and fellow staff members at the Adventure Unlimited Ranches, performed with the dedication, compassion and good cheer exemplified by Marianne Andrews, co-founder of the A/U Ranches.

Beth Yost Wrangler Ranch Hand

Beth has earned this award for her tireless attention to all the details involved with caring for 100 horses and maintenance at both Sky Valley and Round-Up corrals. When the need arose to help in other areas of camp, Beth would quietly and humbly step in to complete the tasks. Her loving support of the staff and campers was appreciated by all.

Beth is settling into a new house close to the Ranches. She is enjoying travelling this Fall, as well as continuing to help out at A/U.

Gabe Hudson, Sky Valley Ranch Explorers Program Staff

Energy, love and a genuine excitement for camp are words that describe Gabe. He acknowledged and celebrated the selfless acts of campers through the summer, including a camper who broke Gabe’s Golden Spatula scraping tables record. One staff member said when she asked her cabin of female campers to define

love, one of them said “Gabe.” Another camper said, “thank you for hiring him.”

Gabriel Hudson is a Freshman at Principia College. He is active in the CS Org as well as on the school’s newspaper and theater productions. He is currently studying creative writing, art and mass communication.

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M O U N T A I N m e m o

Youth Camp at the A/U Ranches: Choose Your Major!Whether attending A/U one week, two or more – campers are taught how to live life free of doubt and fear. The practical application of Christian Science is what makes Adventure Unlimited’s experiences meaningful. With the support of spiritually-minded staff and volunteers – it’s a healing atmosphere!

NEW! Majors Organized by Areas of InterestThere has always been a natural progression in the program majors between Sky Valley Ranch and Round-Up Ranch. Those who have an interest in the mountains, horses and water can be challenged by a variety of activities that cater to students in the elementary grades through high school.

SVR = Sky Valley Ranch: 2nd – 8th Graders

RUR = Round-Up Ranch: 9th – 12th Graders

See page 5 for more information on our new RUR Skills Camps being offered Session 1.

Major CategoriesVisit our website for detailed descriptions of individual majors.

Horse MajorCampers who participate in the horse programs at A/U will learn how to ride and handle a horse in a variety of situations from daily “cowboy/cowgirl” work activities

to the challenge of competition. Whether in a “specialized” horse program or general horsemanship, our experienced counselors will introduce and instruct campers in obstacle work, gymkhana events, polocrosse and cattle work. All campers in the program will have the opportunity to highlight the skills learned by participating in our traditional end of session Gymkhana.

Camp Major Grade Session

SVR Buckaroos 3 - 4 All

SVR Horsemanship 5 - 8 All

RUR Horsemanship Skills Camp 9 - 12 1

RUR Horsemanship 9 - 12 2 & 3

RUR Cattle Working Skills Camp 9 - 12 1

RUR Polocrosse 9 - 12 2 & 3

NOTE: All Horsemanship Participants must be enrolled in 2 week sessions.

Water MajorHigh alpine lakes, the Arkansas River and a Junior Olympic size pool provide outstanding venues for the different degrees of water programs at Adventure Unlimited.

Moving through these majors, campers develop skills and confidence. Each major has an overnight trip focusing on the development of their skills. The Sky Valley waterfront major comes together on the last day of camp to compete in the Mountain Madness event.

Camp Major Grade Session

SVR Waterfront 3 - 8 All

RURWhitewater

Rafting Skills Camp9 - 12 1

RUR Whitewater Rafting 9 - 12 2 & 3

RUR Whitewater Kayaking 9 - 12 3

Meanwhile, back at the Ranches...2013 RANCH Programs*

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F A L L 2 0 12

Mountain MajorSet in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area and Colorado’s 14,000 foot peaks, Adventure Unlimited’s mountain programs provide unparalleled opportunities

for beginner through advanced mountaineers. Our mountaineering programs introduce campers of every age to backpacking, the low, middle and high ropes course and rock climbing in our state of the art rock gym and at Turtle Rocks. Each major provides activities specific to the needs and abilities of the age group. The Sky Valley mountain majors come together on the last day of camp to compete in the Camper Adventure Race.

Camp Major Grade Session

SVR Explorers 2 - 4 All

SVR Mountaineering 4 - 6 All

SVR Challengers 6 - 8 All

SVR Challengers Outcamp 7 - 8 2

SVR Photography 6 - 8 1

RUR Photography 9 - 12 2 & 3

RUR Mosaics Skills Camp 9 - 12 1

RUR Mountain Mosaics 9 - 12 2 & 3

RUR Conquerors 9 - 12 2

RUR Conquerors Xtreme 10 - 12 3

RUR Mountain Biking 9 - 12 2

RUR*NEW* Rock Climbing

Skills Camp9 - 12 1

Skills CampRound-Up Campers, are you interested in going to the next level in your skills development and experiences at camp? We are ready to take you there! Join us first

session for Skills Camp in the majors you have come to love at A/U – Horsemanship, Cattle Working, Rafting, Mosaics, and *NEW* for 2013 - Rock Climbing! (See charts under each of the Major Categories for Skills Camp options.)

We have enhanced the schedule to add more days focused on these majors, providing campers extra time to develop and hone their skills than traditional camp sessions offer. Each program will continue to experience a multi-day out-of-camp trip appropriate for their area of interest.

Participants will stay in cabins with counselors and other campers in their Skills Camp. You’ll still have time to visit friends in different majors during meals and evening programs.

* All or part of this operation is conducted on Public lands under Special Recreation Permits from the Dept. of the Interior BLM, Colorado State Parks AHRA, and Dept. of Ag. USFS.

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M O U N T A I N m e m o

Visiting the A/U Ranches anytime of the year is memorable, but joining us for the Christmas holiday is truly a cherished experience.

Adults and families are invited to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas at our house with your A/U family from December 21 – 27. Christmas Camp is for groups of all sizes, as well as participants of all

ages. You can even bring your friends.* We’ll take care of all the trimmings including the Christmas feast!

At Christmas Camp you can ride a horse in the snow, help select the camp Christmas tree, go caroling, sledding, decorate gingerbread houses and play broom hockey on a frozen lake – for starters!

Come to A/U this holiday season and feel the embrace of the Christ spirit. We encourage you to make your plans now, because the snow has fallen in the high country and Christmas will be here soon!

If finances are an issue, consider our volunteer staff opportunity. Visit our website to find out more.

* All participants must simply adhere to the standards of no drinking, drugs or smoking on the Ranches property.

ADULT & FAMILY PROGRAMS offer fun for all!

Come Home for the Christmas Holiday!ADULT & FAMILY CHRISTMAS CAMP AT THE RANCHES DECEMBER 21 – 27, 2012

To make reservations for any of these programs visit our website:

www.adventureunlimited.org6

Plan your next vacation at the A/U Ranches. It’s a time for fun, friends and spiritual reflection! If horses are your passion, imagine yourself spending the day working cattle and advancing your horsemanship skills during Cowboy/Cowgirl Camp. Beginner riders are welcome.

Maybe other activities such as hiking, climbing, fly fishing, kayaking, biking or just relaxing by the lake interest you more; then Adult Base Camp is the right program for you!

These two programs run concurrently, allowing participants to enjoy meals and some evening activities together. Friends and family members can each do their own program during the day, and still spend time together sharing their adventures. It doesn’t matter which program you choose, you can stay in the same cabin with your family members or friends! Applicants must be 18 years or older to participate in either program.*

SPECIAL GROUP DISCOUNTGet a group of four people to share a bunkhouse, including making your own beds and cleaning up, and save $200/person for either of these programs!

Looking for Getaways just for Adults?COWBOY/COWGIRL CAMP & ADULT BASE CAMP AUGUST 17 – 23, 2013

An Early

Christmas Present Just

ForYou!$50 Tuition Discount per

person (up to $250 per family). To apply, go to

adventureunlimited.org/christmas and download

the 2012 Christmas Camp flyer & application.

* All participants must simply adhere to the standards of no drinking, drugs or smoking on the Ranches property.

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F A L L 2 0 12 REWARDS OF SPIRITUALITY at camp...

What a privilege it was to be given the opportunity to serve as a Camp Practitioner at the Adventure Unlimited Ranches this summer! This experience was

one of the best two weeks of my life. It is the daily demonstration of Christian Science that is demanded and practiced at camp.

Here are some of the Christ-like activities we witnessed that you can expect at camp:

“CHURCH” in its purest expression

• An acknowledgement of God’s care by exchanging metaphysical ideas, is held before each major activity. A metaphysical talk speaking about God’s care is provided the night before campers embark on a 3-day camping trip.

• When a camper feels fearful, counselors and other campers support them with metaphysical thoughts. The campers are immersed in this spiritual abundance of ideas

which quiets fear so they can hear God’s angel messages!

• A wide variety of Christian Science literature is available in the camp Reading Room, all around the Ranches, and is read by those visiting the practitioner.

• It's natural for campers and staff to talk with a practitioner. They can request healing treatment or helpful metaphysical ideas for their own prayer and study. Over half of the 100+ in the community during 3rd session asked specifically for Christian Science treatment.

• The Christian Science nurse’s thorough understanding of the metaphysics in Christian Science (and heartfelt love for God in serving in this capacity) works in harmony with the practitioner, yielding quick healing.

HEALING

• Mary Baker Eddy practiced healing by sharing with a patient recognition of the ever-presence of the Christ. A significant physical healing resulted from this type of treatment this summer.

• We witnessed physical healing on a consistent basis as a result of a change in consciousness. The practitioner listens quietly to campers' thoughts, and through Christian Science treatment (reversing what has been voiced) healing results.

• A few days into camp, there was a need to heal sniffling, coughing, headaches (i.e., contagion). Just before the U.S. flag is taken down each day, campers and staff voluntarily share with all of us what they are grateful for from that day. We expanded this experience by asking them to share “gotchya’ good’s”. These are examples of one community member witnessing unselfed, Christ-like love toward another at camp. After this was practiced a few days, the contagion dissipated.

While the setting of camp in the Colorado Rockies is perhaps incomparable, what makes an everlasting impression is the spiritual atmosphere practiced. I can testify to this having returned to camp to practice Christian healing for others about three decades after it was provided to me as a camper.

Come see for yourself!

To find out more about our programs, call:

1.888.543.4849 – Sign up Today! 7

Lives Transformed!BY LORI BIESTERFELDT, C.S.2012 A/U Camper Practitioner, 3rd Session

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Adventure Unlimited5201 South Quebec StreetGreenwood Village, CO 80111

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

What’s inside

M O U N T A I N m e m o F A L L 2 0 12

Adventure Unlimited’s PurposeTo provide inspiring recreational, leadership, service, educational, and social activities for Christian Scientists and their friends, which nurture healing and a sense of community, in an atmosphere conducive to practical reliance on Christian Science.8

•Stepping Outside Our Comfort Zones•Ranch Program Dates•Youth Camp Fruitage•What are Bunkhouse Parents?•Summer Staff Leadership & Service Awards•2013 Youth Majors•Adult/Family Programs•Lives Transformed!

We welcome couples, singles, men and women – all who love the Bible for this special time of friendship and fellowship for an in-depth study of the Bible. Madelon Maupin, noted Bible scholar, is the leader of this special program.

2013 Topic: Second Isaiah 40 - 55

The A/U Ranches is the perfect setting to reflect on the scriptures and be inspired! These are interactive sessions, so you can look forward to participatory discussions that touch on the literary and spiritual meanings of the books in the Bible.

See you at the Ranches!

Non-profit OrgU.S. Postage

P A I DDenver, CO

Permit No. 497

Staff Gymkhana and Adventure Race

The Staff Gymkhana and Adventure Race were designed for staff development, fitness and motivation. The Gymkhana events include barrels, pole bending and keyhole, while the Adventure Race events are swimming, mountain biking, rock climbing and trail running. Staff members competed in a series of four competitions using the same skills they teach campers during the summer.

2012 WINNERSGymkhana

Overall: Jessie Lewis LeRoy Williams Horsemanship Award: Ally Lauria

Adventure Race – Solo

Woman: Haley Morton Man: Jeff Strickland

Adventure Race – Team

Justin Duffy - biking David Ritter - running Kevin Cross - climbing Gabriella Schwenker - swimming

APRIL 2 – 6, 2013

Co-Ed Adult Bible Study at the Ranches