Adventures
My First M3 Wilderness Experience
by Christopher Palmer
I really didn’t know what to expect of the wilderness trip to Maine last September. I had asked some of the guys who had gone previously and they told me about the deep clear lake, the warm comfortable cabins, the wonderful food, the floatplane rides, playing poker, target shooting, hiking, and so on. I trusted their judgment, and made the leap-of-faith and committed to attend the trip.
From the very first moment on that Saturday morning, when the group gathering at Bill Dudeck’s house to re-pack our gear in the vehicles heading North, the experience felt to me, much like a college road trip – a large group of buddies traveling together, headed for some remote and enjoyable destination. I must say that the men in the M3 group know how to have fun, how to let go of the daily routines and responsibilities, and how to release the “inner, fun-loving, wild child” in each of us. This was a skill I needed to re-acquire.
The journey itself, I found, became the destination for me! The drive up to Maine went quickly with the great company and conversation we shared. The float plane trips offered glorious views of Mt. Katahdin, and the Bradford camp and all its activities were delightful. There was always something exciting to do, and to talk about at the breakfast, lunch and dinner tables. Even with all the many activities, one could still enjoy some solitude if that’s what you are seeking. I managed to read three books and spend several secluded hours contemplating a career change.
One of the most spectacular sights at the camp is the clear black night sky punctuated with constellations of stars that cannot be seen from our metropolitan area. The experience of deep peace, of camaraderie, and the sharing of friendship and fun was simply unparalleled by any other vacation I’ve had in my adult life. I would encourage each man in M3 who possible can participate in the 2010 Maine wilderness adventure to do so. Make the commitment, take the leap-of-faith, you won’t regret it. I have already put the money down for the 2010 trip – or as we say on poker nights – I’m all in!