Greetings Fellow Adventurers

Topic 1 of 7: The joys of a challenge

We just returned from our 2023 trip to Colorado where we hiked Mt Bierstadt. The hike is 7.2 miles with 2,700 feet of elevation gain. It takes between 7 to 8 hours for the average hiker to complete.

We were at the trailhead at 6:45 AM milling about in the cool crisp air adjusting our backpacks and double-checking our gear. A happy nervousness rippled through the group as we collectively contemplated the challenge ahead of us. But we were prepared. Some of the hikers reported they were in the best shape they had been all year. Everyone had engaged in extensive planning: Getting the right hiking boots, backpack, water containers, food on the trail, and clothing.

And then we started, each of us on our own trip, yet part of a self-supporting group. After 7,000 (or so) steps over boulders, across streams, through brush we were on top. A sense of awe and relief. All of us were changed ... together we did something that was difficult and embracing. The joys of a challenge.

Above photo was taken at Mt Bierstadt Colorado. Check out previous newsletters.

Topic 2 of 7: Books and a beverage:

'Mindset - The New Psychology of Success'

by Carol Dweck

Wednesday October 18: 6:00 PM CT.  RSVP here

Join us for an engaging discussion of the ideas from the book Mindset The New Psychology of Success. We will meet at 6655 Delmar Blvd, University City, MO 63130. The goal is to share ideas and consider how we might incorporate ideas into our life journey. Bring your preferred beverage and any snacks. After the book discussion, we plan go to a Delmar loop restaurant for a bite.

It is not necessary to have read the book to participate.

Topic 3 of 7: Hiking / Rucking trek in Forest Park

Hikes in Forest Park

Sunday 9/24/2023 at 9 AM CT RSVP here

Join us for a hike/ruck. Hike at your pace and with like-minded people. Engaging discussion and high spirits are the guiding principles for these hikes

Topic 4 of 7: Debrief of our Colorado 14er trip - Zoom

Zoom - October 5: 8:00 PM CT.  RSVP here

Join us for an informational meeting when we
(1) revisit the highlights of our 2023 trip and
(2) consider plans for our 2024 trip

We will share photos, stories, and plans. Plenty of time for Q & A.

Topic 5 of 7: Member spotlight

Laura Billingsly,

Laura writes in her member profile:

"Raising my hand to be part of nature and community as my positive contribution to the collective consciousness. I feed my soul with spiritual practices, creative endeavors, yoga, hiking and nature as medicine."

See our Facebook group for photos of other MAC member adventures.

Topic 6 of 7: Devils Tower Hike/Summit Trip

Devil's Tower trip.  October 19 to 22. Learn more and RSVP here

Enjoy the incredible views, do some hiking, and consider joining Helga as she summits.

Devils Tower is a natural rock formation in Wyoming that rises 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River. It is 867 feet tall from the base to the summit. The tower is also known as Bear Lodge and is a sacred place for over 20 Native American tribes.

There are many things to do, including:

• Joyner Ridge Trail: A 1.5 mile loop that's a few minutes away from the crowded Tower Trail

• Red Beds Trail: Provides great views of Devils Tower and the Belle Fourche River Valley

• Tower Trail: A 1.3 mile paved loop that circles Devils Tower

Topic 7 of 7: Medallion 'Embracing Wellness' Conference

We are planning a one day mini-conference on Enhancing Wellness

Date: November 11th 2023

Time: 9 AM to 5 PM

Location: University City Library, St Louis

Topics discussed: Framework from Peter Attia's book Outlive / Exercise / Mindfulness / Emotional health / Self-care.

Learn more and RSVP here

About us: MAC is a non-profit learning organization. We help members increase wellbeing with active outdoor exploration, life-time learning, like-minded community, and healthy habit development. It is a whole-person perspective built on the proposition that adventuring happens one step at a time and is most appreciated when done with other like-minded people.

Thanks for your interest in this MAC newsletter. Click here for previous newsletters.

Please let me know if you

• have anything you would like included in the next MAC newsletter

• would like to be added to the newsletter mailing list or you know of someone who would like to be added

I can be reached at Ron@MedallionAdventureClub.com or a text in MAC Slack. 

To Adventure

Ron King

Medallion Adventure Club