Alright... I'll just say it right out, that I'm not filling out a survey. I'm more the type to talk straight from the heart. 

   I'm sure the main negative was the weather, which cast a shadow on a lot of things, but that's uncontrollable. We basically had the opposite of the forecast. Let's concentrate on the positives. 

   #1: Stellar facilities. We were given a relaxing environment, with privacy. Plenty of beautiful vistas, and relaxing sounds. Myself, being a Druid, I felt right at home. I was in Church everywhere I stepped. 

   #2: Accommodation. The meals were amazing. Snacks and Coffee were always provided between meals. I can only speak to the main cabin, but it was beautiful. I slept pretty comfortable on a bunk bed. For a camping environment, it was more than expected, and I'm a guy with back issues. 

   #3: Staff. There wasn't a member of the staff that I felt uncomfortable approaching. I tried to make a point of talking with those I didn't know and even made a few friends among them. I embraced the suggestion of taking meals with someone new each time. I didn't get around to everyone but at least had conversations with each. I made connections with everyone present... for me, that's something I normally will not do. We definitely fostered a sense of acceptance and community... I imagine that some of our attendees really needed that. I personally felt the sense of camaraderie that was intended and noticed others feeling the same.

#4: Content of classes.  

Each was helpful. A few really stood out, though. Mario's course (it did get derailed slightly, due to questions), went a long way in bridging the gap between veterans and first responders. I felt an immediate connection with what he was expressing. He and Noah both mentioned the "What If's". That's one of the biggest obstacles I've fought with, throughout my own healing journey. 

   Keri's section on communication made a very valid point. I honestly didn't want to make a PB&J sandwich, but I hung in there and wrote the instructions. The fact that she got the point across very quickly was a definite bonus...lol. 

   Lora nailed it with Mindfulness and Focus. This is a subject I'm well versed in, through both spiritual and therapeutic paths, but she helped reinforce things that I may have laxed in keeping up with. She made it enjoyable. 

   Noah and Molly did well with the Breakout sessions. These were honestly why I wanted to attend, and why I left with a renewed sense of purpose. I don't think we had the amount of time needed to spend on these subjects, but not everyone is ready to dig that deep. It will take more team and trust building to get folks to open up easier. The stories shared gave me a lot of insight on how far I've come in my own personal healing journey, and where I'm lacking. It helped me to rethink my position, and goals. The second session allowed me to take a long look at myself, from a completely different point of view. Tears were shed... tears that needed to be... that's where the healing starts. 

   For the initial push, this weekend was a great success, in my opinion. So many organizations were brought together, new connections were forged, and fun was had. 

   From my perspective, I'm rating the experience a 10 out of 10. I'm deeply satisfied and will definitely attend more. 

     Thank you, once again.

SGT Christopher Hile 

U.S. Army (RET)