Chip Timmons - We kicked off our Staff Retreat with a trip to the low ropes course at the FCA camp near Marshall, IN.  The goal of the today was to work on our communication skills and do a little team building along the way.

Our first exercise involved a sort of team cross-country skiing.  Picture 8 people skiing on 4x4s and you get the idea.  I couldn't take pictures since I had neither free time or a free hand. Both teams eventually reached our destination, but for my group it took a bit longer that we had hoped.

After some instructions from Janel, our host, and a bit of reflection on what worked, we moved over to "Mountain Tops".  Our group was divided into two groups of eight and the objective was to move from mountain top to mountain top using only our wits and 2 planks for wood. No jumping allowed.

After a few false starts, we got into a rhythm. We did our best work after Janel put a rule into effect allowing only Clint to speak.  The lesson..when we all listen to one voice, we work better as a group.  I have photos of this exercise and our last exercise, "Generation Gap". 

Generation Gap proved a bit more challenging, but didn't take us nearly as long to figure out how this one worked.  In groups of 3 or 4, the goal is to make your way across wires three feet above the ground relying on both your balance and that of others in your group.  

To sum up the day, we learned that our office works well together.  We already knew that, but we learned there are some ways in which we need to improve.  All of the exercises took us out of our comfort zones for a while, but by working together and listening to each other, we go the job done.  

Today, we have meetings this morning and we're off to Indianapolis for lunch and entertainment.