I spent my final month in Argentina working another semester course phase for Outward Bound. This semester phase was the first of 3 and had 9 students who were mostly 18-19. I got to work with one of my best friends, Max, which was so fun and a great extended hang out. The course was challenging, as OB courses always are. But our expedition was pretty sweet, a week long alpine trek over some huge mountains high up in the national park, called the 5 Lakes Traverse. I hadn't yet done this route, since I've only worked the November semester, when there's too much snow to go up high. In addition to a stellar backpacking route, we had a great glacier block, including a glacier traverse of the whole mountain which I had also never done, due to border control issues with the November phase. It was overall, fine. I was more engaged as an instructor on this phase than the November phase from this year, probably because as a phase 1 I was involved in more teaching, coaching, and support. Plus the route demanded more management from me than the November course. The students challenged me... I remember being 18 and wanting freedom and power once... but that's perhaps a reflection to be shared in person so if you're curious for more, ask me sometime! So that's the spark notes, the photos and captions will tell more of the story. So, that's that. It was a positive life experience. Wrapping up 3.5 months in Argentina was a great feeling. I am proud that I lived beyond my comfort zone so consistently for that long. I am grateful that my body held up alright and that I was able to experience a slew of amazing things. I am writing this post from Salt Lake City, Utah, where I have landed until the first week in March, when I will drive back to NC for another OB season. Thanks for following along my 2023-2024 Patagonia adventure! That's a wrap.
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