Blog 1: Introductions
Hi, my name is Carolyn Olaveson and I am one of the instructors of Roland Michener's outdoor education program - FIRESIDE. I am super excited to help create and run this program as I feel it is important for our students to see education outside of the classroom, build appreciation for the environment, and stay physically active. As such, I am harnessing my love for the outdoors and adventure sports and using that passion to create diverse lessons in species survival, wilderness appreciation, environmental sustainability, and outdoor expedition in the hopes of foster a love of the outdoors in my students.
My top outdoor activities are:
Swimming: fresh water lakes in Northern Ontario make up some of the best swimming spots in Canada. It allows for great exercise, lets you cool down on unusually hot days, and provides a much needed break from the mosquito-ridden bush.
Ice-Fishing: nothing is as relaxing as taking your sled to an ice hut, dropping a few lines, playing some cards, and cooking your catch. My love for ice fishing began as a child when I would jump on the back of the ol' Arctic Cat and fish with my dad off Dead Man's point.
(note - you must have 5 of these)
What I like least about the outdoors:
mosquitos, black flies, bees... actually... almost all insects - even butterflies! I have that they bite you, get stuck in your teeth when mountain biking, buzz in your ear when you are trying to sleep. I know that they play an important role in 'the circle of life' but I could definitely do without those pesky critters.
The thing I am looking for most this semester:
HIKING. There are so many beautiful trials in the Timmins area that will allow students to take stunning photography, investigate nature, eat off the land, provide hours of exercise! I LOVE that I am fortunate enough to combine my love for the outdoors with my teaching career!
Words of Wisdom:
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” - Michael Jordan