Sending Love from Maui!
July 9, 2023
We kicked off Wednesday morning with an exhilarating second day of windsurfing. Everyone in the group was excited to put their newly acquired skills to the test on the water. Molly, Elizabeth, and Brooke proved to be the experts of the day, effortlessly perfecting their turns and pulling off impressive 360-degree maneuvers. They even ventured beyond the cove, bravely windsurfing onto the vast open water.
Meanwhile, Worth, Alex, and Spencer engaged in some friendly competition, showcasing their skills by racing against each other. It was a thrilling spectacle as they battled it out to determine who would emerge as the victor.
After our windsurfing session, we made our way back to camp, where we prepared delicious burrito bowls to refuel for our afternoon adventure at Big Beach. Excitement filled the air as Alex and Worth faced off against Brooks and Land in an intense game of spike ball. The competition was spirited and competitive, resulting in a close final score of 11-8, with Alex and Worth emerging as the champions.
Alessi, Katie, and Annabelle took the lead in the water, spending nearly the entire time swimming around and enjoying the refreshing waves. As the day at the beach came to a close, the girls decided to take a leisurely walk along the sandy shore, soaking up the beautiful scenery and creating lasting memories.
Our Thursday began with an engaging Conservation activity alongside Maui Cultural Lands in the Honokowai Valley. Ekolu, our knowledgeable guide, shared insightful background information about the valley and led us in an ancient chant, setting the tone for our experience. With a renewed sense of appreciation for the land, we entered the valley and eagerly began our conservation efforts.
Under Ekolu’s guidance, we diligently worked together to remove weeds and maintain the cleanliness and preservation of the valley. With each weed pulled, we felt a connection to the rich history and importance of protecting this natural gem.After completing our conservation work, we made our way to the picturesque Kaanapali beach, where the rest of the day unfolded. Elizabeth, Brooke, and Alessi couldn’t resist the allure of the vibrant underwater world and embarked on a snorkeling adventure, hoping to catch a glimpse of fascinating marine wildlife. Meanwhile, Katie, Annabelle, and Molly chose to unwind on the sandy beach, soaking in the warm sunshine and working on their tans.
Worth, Alex, and Spencer sought solace in the refreshing ocean waters after their hard work in the valley. They enjoyed the cool waves, providing a much-needed respite from the day’s activities. Brooks and Land, on the other hand, found relaxation and camaraderie as they honed their skills in a spirited game of spike ball.As our time at the beach drew to a close, we indulged in a delightful treat at Ululani’s, savoring delicious shaved ice to cool down after the sun-drenched day. Energized and with culinary aspirations, we made a stop at Safeway to gather the necessary ingredients for our very own Iron Chef competition.
Elizabeth, Molly, and Katie formed a formidable team, creating a mouthwatering Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese. Worth, Alex, Land, Spencer, and Brooks collaborated to craft delectable Shrimp Fried Rice. Lastly, Annabelle, Alessi, and Brooke united their talents to prepare irresistible BLT sandwiches. The Iron Chef showdown was intense, with each team showcasing their culinary prowess. The decision was not easy, but in the end, the BLT group emerged victorious, their sandwiches earning them the coveted title. It was a delicious and satisfying end to an eventful day, filled with both cultural immersion and beachside enjoyment.
On Friday, were fortunate enough to have a relaxed morning, allowing us to sleep in and savor the start of the day. With renewed energy, we gathered together and prepared mouthwatering breakfast burritos, ensuring we had the fuel we needed for the exciting adventure that awaited us-rappelling. The anticipation was palpable as we embarked on our journey into the rainforest, eager to witness the breathtaking waterfalls that lay ahead. Land and Molly took the lead, fearlessly demonstrating the art of rappelling by descending down the wall with grace and skill. Their daring acts inspired the rest of the group, fueling our excitement to follow in their footsteps.
In a burst of adrenaline, Alex swiftly descended down the wall, showcasing incredible speed and enthusiasm. With his expert guidance, he encouraged everyone to embrace the Ferrari position, maximizing the thrill of the descent. As the group rappelled, Katie, Elizabeth, and Alessi took a moment to immerse themselves in the beauty of the waterfall, capturing priceless memories with stunning pictures as the cascading water served as a captivating backdrop. Brooke and Annabelle, drawn by the allure of the waterfall, ventured further into the experience by swimming out to feel the invigorating rush of water as it met the pond below. Brooks and Spencer, once given the green light by the guides, eagerly cannonballed into the refreshing water, adding an element of playful joy to the excursion. Meanwhile, Worth’s curiosity led him to explore the cracks and crevices of the trail, hoping to catch a glimpse of crawfish hiding within.
With the rappelling adventure behind us, we made our way to the local food trucks, where a tantalizing array of culinary delights awaited us. From nutritious açaí bowls to savory poke, everyone had the opportunity to indulge in a diverse range of flavors, satisfying their appetites after an exhilarating day. Our next stop took us to a goodwill store, where we embraced the spirit of fun and creativity by selecting funky and groovy outfits to wear later in the evening. This lighthearted shopping excursion added an element of whimsy to our day, reflecting the camaraderie and carefree atmosphere of our group. To commemorate our time in Maui and the unforgettable memories we had created, we decided to celebrate with a special dinner. Our destination was My Thai Maui, a restaurant that provided the perfect setting to reminisce about our adventures and revel in the shared joy and laughter that filled the air. The meal became a tribute to the incredible experiences we had shared, ensuring that the bonds forged during this trip would be cherished for years to come.
On Saturday, as the dreaded airport day arrived, we mustered up the strength to face the bittersweet farewell. To make the most of our last morning together, we indulged in a delightful breakfast of fluffy pancakes and sizzling bacon. After satisfying our appetites, we rallied together to clean up our camp, ensuring that we left behind a pristine and organized space. As we made our way to the airport, a mixture of emotions enveloped us. The air was filled with a blend of joyous laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a tinge of sadness knowing that our time together was drawing to a close. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the airport, we took a moment to share heartfelt goodbyes, expressing our gratitude for the incredible journey we had embarked upon.
Reflecting on the trip as a whole, it was undeniably a remarkable and unforgettable experience. The bond we formed, the adventures we undertook, and the laughter we shared will forever hold a special place in our hearts. From the exhilaration of windsurfing to the serenity of exploring the rainforest, each moment contributed to a tapestry of cherished memories. As we parted ways, we carried with us a wealth of experiences, a newfound appreciation for nature and culture, and the knowledge that our time spent together had been truly exceptional. Though we may have bid farewell for now, the connections forged and the impact of this trip will endure, reminding us of the incredible bond we share and the adventures that await in the future.
All the best,
Connor, Sarah, and John
Red, White, and Ocean Blue
July 5, 2023
Monday
The day commenced with an invigorating paddle boarding session, during which Annabelle and Katie showcased their impressive skills on the board, effortlessly gliding across the water. Following that, we made our way to the beautiful Big Beach, where we delighted in the warmth of the sun and the soothing embrace of the waves. Worth and Land engaged in a spirited game of spike ball with some locals, their competitive spirit led them to emerge as the triumphant winners.
In the meantime, Brooks and Alex decided to recharge their energy levels with a quick nap, ensuring they were ready for the rest of the day’s activities. After the beach, we headed back to Montessori school where Spencer took charge of the grill, skillfully preparing a mouthwatering feast for our dinner.
In the midst of our enjoyable day, Griff paid us a surprise visit, sharing his personal journey and how he became involved with Moondance. His inspiring story reminded us of the importance of gratitude and appreciating the opportunities life presents us with. Griff’s presence added an extra touch of meaning to our gathering, as we absorbed his words and reflected on our own experiences.
Tuesday
The Fourth of July began with a thrilling start as we embarked on an adventure with the Redline Rafting Company. Our destination was Molokini crater, where we had the opportunity to snorkel and witness an abundance of mesmerizing sea life. With excitement in the air, Elizabeth and Brooke were the first ones to dive into the crystal-clear waters, eager to explore the underwater wonders that awaited them. Meanwhile, Alessi and Molly took advantage of the unique setting and captured some remarkable pictures on the elevator, located on the backside of Molokini crater.
As our boat tour progressed, we arrived at our final destination, where we indulged in the exhilaration of performing cool tricks and flips into the inviting water.
Later in the day, the Olympic spirit took hold as we eagerly participated in our own version of the games. Divided into teams, we proudly represented the white team, brimming with anticipation for the friendly competition ahead. The afternoon was filled with lightheartedness and laughter as we engaged in various fun-filled games. From the classic water balloon toss to the challenging birdy on a perch, soccer matches, and even an entertaining eating contest, each activity brought laughter and camaraderie to the forefront. Throughout the games, we had the opportunity to connect and bond with the other groups, forging new friendships and building a sense of unity.
To conclude such a memorable day, we headed to Paia to savor some delicious gelato. This sweet treat served as a perfect way to celebrate the culmination of our Fourth of July festivities. With our appetites full and smiles on our faces, we reflected on the incredible adventures, new connections, and cherished moments that made the day truly unforgettable.
Fun in The Sun!
July 3, 2023
Thursday
Today was an exhilarating day filled with adventurous activities and delicious food. We started off with windsurfing, and it was amazing to see how quickly everyone picked it up. Mollie and Brooke stole the show with their impressive tricks and 360-degree spins on the board. Alessi even had a personal chauffeur from the guide, making her windsurfing experience extra special. Worth and Alex, on the other hand, focused on achieving lightning-fast speeds.
Annabelle and Katie took on the role of documentarians, creating vlogs to showcase everyone’s skills and providing entertaining commentary. Spencer and Brooks, inspired by the guide’s lead, explored the entire cove, putting their skills on display. Elizabeth, with her exceptional talent, wowed everyone with her incredible tricks. After an action-packed morning, we took a break for lunch, where Worth, Alex, and Spencer showed off their culinary skills by preparing hotdogs for everyone to enjoy.
Later in the day, we visited Pono Grown Farms, where we had the opportunity to learn from the owner, Evan. He shared his knowledge about Taro plants and various other crops. We had hands-on experience, raking and placing mulch around the plants, as well as planting different seeds in trays filled with soil. Worth and Spencer even caught chickens from the coop, adding an element of fun to the farm visit. To top it all off, we indulged in a thrilling water slide adventure.
For dinner, we had an exciting iron chef competition. The burger team, consisting of Worth, Spencer, Molly, and Brooke, prepared mouthwatering caramelized onion and bacon burgers, topped with delicious cheddar cheese. Meanwhile, Team A, Alex, Alessi, and Annabelle showcased their culinary expertise with a flavorful pasta dish. Brooks, Land, Elizabeth, and Katie treated everyone to a delightful charcuterie board appetizer, followed by a scrumptious Bolognese. In the end, the burger team emerged victorious, with their delectable creations winning over everyone’s taste buds.
Friday
The day began with an early wake-up call, as we embarked on an exciting surfing adventure with the Maui Beach Boys. The anticipation and eagerness were palpable among the group, all eager to ride the waves. Molly and Annabelle decided to ride tandem, showcasing their synchronized skills on board. Elizabeth, displaying her impressive agility, successfully switched sides while surfing, adding an extra flair to her performance. Meanwhile, Molly emerged as the surfing champion, impressing everyone with her exceptional talent. Alessi, Brooke, and Katie exhibited grace and poise as they elegantly got up and down from the board.
As for the guys, they had an exhilarating experience filled with wipeouts and endless fun. Alex and Worth, in their adventurous spirit, rode together through the waves, often colliding with each other in a playful manner.
After an eventful surfing session, we headed back to camp to relax and take a brief break before our visit to Lahaina for a town day. Our first stop was a vintage t-shirt company shop, where we explored unique and nostalgic designs. To satisfy our hunger, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at Cheeseburger in Paradise and Captain Jack’s Island Grill. Once our appetites were satisfied, we made our way to the beach to soak up the sun and unwind. Worth, Alex, and Land decided to create a human totem pole, showcasing their playful camaraderie. Brooks, filled with energy, went for a quick jog down the beach before finding a cozy spot for a much-deserved nap. Meanwhile, Spencer and the girls engaged in a spirited game of spike ball, adding an element of friendly competition to our beach day.
Saturday
Day 2 of our surfing adventure began with slightly smaller waves, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. We made the most of the conditions and had a fantastic time on the water. Worth, Alex, and Land demonstrated their skills by catching a couple of waves and even tried out the playful technique of butt surfing, which surprisingly brought them quite a bit of success. Elizabeth and Katie, on the other hand, found solace and relaxation in taking peaceful naps on their surfboards, perfectly content with the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Meanwhile, Spencer, Brooks, and Molly emerged as the wave-catching champions of the group, skillfully maneuvering through the water, and catching the most waves.
After our invigorating surfing session, we made our way to Slaughterhouse Beach, which, despite its intimidating name, turned out to be a breathtakingly beautiful beach nestled in its own cove on the west side of the island. Annabelle, Brooke, and Alessi seized the opportunity to go snorkeling, immersing themselves in the underwater world and marveling at the vibrant fish and coral reefs that surrounded them. It was a day filled with adventure, both in the water and underwater, as we embraced the joy of surfing and the wonders of nature.
Sunday
We kicked off the day with an incredibly early start to witness the breathtaking sunrise at Haleakala National Park. The experience was awe-inspiring as we watched the sun slowly emerge above the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky. After taking in the beauty of the sunrise, we headed to Betty’s Cafe for a well-deserved breakfast to fuel our adventurous day ahead.
With satisfied stomachs, we embarked on a tour of the town, exploring various shops and indulging in some retail therapy. Annabelle stumbled upon a Mclovin shirt that caught her eye, immediately becoming a cherished find. The guys, filled with energy and enthusiasm, grooved to the music playing in each store, adding their own lively vibe to the shopping experience. The rest of the girls opted for bracelets as souvenirs, wanting to have a tangible memento of their time in Maui.
As the afternoon approached, we had an exciting cooking class with the Maui Fresh Chef. Under the guidance of the skilled chef, we learned to create delicious bao buns, flavorful spring rolls, and mouthwatering fried rice. The experience was not only educational but also a delightful opportunity to bond and share in the joy of preparing a meal together. To satisfy our sweet tooth, we made our way to Tobi’s Shaved Ice for a delectable and refreshing treat. The assortment of flavors and colorful toppings made for a delightful dessert experience, providing a much-needed respite from the Hawaiian heat.
To conclude the night on a high note, we engaged in two competitive knockout games of basketball. Worth and Brooke showcased their skills and emerged as the winners of their respective games, adding a touch of friendly competition to our evening.
Overall, it was a day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty, culinary delights, shopping adventures, and friendly sports competitions. Each experience added its own unique flavor to our Maui journey, ensuring that every moment was cherished and memorable.
We are continuing to live in the moment and cherishing the time we still have left with each other. Plenty of adventuring still ahead.
Stay tuned,
Connor, John, and Sarah
Alex: hey mom and dad i am missing you🙀😜 and I’m still chilling
Brooks: Hey mom and dad, I’ve been missing y’all a lot, love y’all
Spencer: Hey mom and dad i am having a really great time and miss y’all a lot
Elizabeth-hi love y’all very much having an absolute blast down here in Maui see y’all soon 🤙🏻✝️✝️✝️🥶🥶😸🫥🙄🥱🤕🙀👨🎤
katie- hey mom and dad and other people! love and miss y’all so much and can’t wait to see y’all when I get home 💙🥳
Brooke- hey mom and dad love and miss y’all so much!!
Anabelle:hi mom and dad love y’all so much please add money to my card !! Love yall so much and can’t wait to see y’all soon!! Tell Emmy and Skylar I say hi❤️❤️
Alessi- hi mom and dad miss y’all so so so much. Having the best time. Give Milly and aspen a big hug for me. I Love y’all.
Worth-hi mum and dad I miss you guys and ima keep it buck I’m chillin with Alex 🤙🏼💀👊😀😝🥵🥶🥶😈😈👿👿🤡🤡
Molly Scott- hey mom and dad love you and miss you were having so much fun I love my group see you soon!!!❤️🥳
Land : hi mom and dad i am having a blast 🤙 love and miss y’all.
Aloha!!
June 30, 2023
Monday, the much-anticipated arrival day, finally arrived, and with it came the joyous gathering of everyone on the beautiful island of Maui. Excitement filled the air as everyone started to meet each other as everyone was ready for an unforgettable adventure. With the sun slowly setting, the group set off to Baldwin beach for a sunset dinner from the renowned Flatbread Pizza Company. Laughter echoed as they plunged into the ocean waters, embracing the Moondance motto of living in the moment.
Afterward, our journey led us to the enchanting Montessori school, where we set up camp and eased on into our accommodations. Excitement filled the air as they set up their belongings, preparing for the adventures that lay ahead. As the moon ascended, we gathered for our first Moonup to end off the first day in Maui.
The following day, Tuesday, dawned upon the camp with an air of anticipation. The morning started early at around 6:30 because of everyone’s jet lag and the rain throughout the night. Undeterred by the weather, we decided to kickstart the day with lively basketball games, such as the intense knock out/gotcha and the thrilling 3 vs. 3 matches. The morning proved to be Worth’s shining moment as he emerged as the undisputed knockout champ.
As hunger beckoned, the talented trio of Spencer, Land, and Alex, took charge, delighting the entire group with a mouthwatering pancake breakfast, perfectly complemented by an array of freshly cut fruits. Energized and ready for the day’s adventures, we embarked on an exhilarating zip-lining expedition in the picturesque Kapalua. Splitting into two groups, we soared through the treetops, suspended in mid-air, with hearts pounding and laughter echoing through the canopies. One group, led by Sarah, included Alex, Katie, Anabelle, Land, and Elizabeth, who fearlessly embraced the adrenaline rush of the zip lines. Meanwhile, Worth, Brooks, Spencer, Molly, and Brooke formed a spirited group under the guidance of Connor, their laughter intermingling with the rustling of leaves as we navigated the thrilling course.
Once we returned to camp, our spirits soared even higher as they received a heartwarming surprise. Alessi, whose flight had been delayed, finally arrived, enveloping the entire group in a wave of happiness. The day continued with an impromptu pickup basketball game, where the guys showcased their skills while the girls found a comfy spot to relax in the cozy Eno hammocks. Dinner was a mouthwatering feast of succulent pulled pork and delectable mac and cheese, fueling our bodies for the adventures yet to come. As night fell, we gathered once more for a magical Moonup, where stories were shared, laughter reverberated, and bonds grew stronger, leaving an indelible mark on our second day on Maui.
Wednesday morning unveiled a world of wonder as we set out on our kayaking expedition with Aloha kayaks. The tranquil waters of Makena beach guaranteed a promising journey filled with breathtaking discoveries. With each stroke of their paddles, our group glided effortlessly, each kayak cutting through the crystal-clear waves, revealing a hidden realm beneath the surface.
As we ventured further, everyone’s eyes widened in awe at the sight before them. The underwater view revealed a vibrant tapestry of colors and life. Schools of tropical fish painted the ocean with their vibrant hues, darting playfully between coral reefs. Amidst the kaleidoscope of marine life, a graceful white-tip shark gracefully swam by out of a cave towards the group, its sleek form commanding both respect and admiration.
But the wonders did not end there. The group was fortunate enough to encounter three gentle sea turtles, gracefully navigating the depths of the coral reef below us. Their serene presence added a touch of magic to the experience, leaving everyone humbled by the beauty of nature.
After we saw some turtles, an octopus emerged from its hiding place. Just when they thought the surprises were over, an eel appeared, and it added an extra layer of excitement to the already captivating journey.
Once we returned to camp, the energy and excitement lingered in the air, inspiring a spirited 5 vs. 5 basketball game. Laughter echoed as the teams battled it out, their competitive spirits ignited by the day’s adventures.
Each player showcased their skills, executing impressive plays and showcasing their teamwork. Soon after, we headed to Paia to grab a sweet treat of shaved ice from Ululani’s. The entire group got an assortment of flavors ranging from Raspberry to Sunset beach. After our sweet treat, we decided to go shopping around town. Worth, Land, and Alex each got Hawaiian shirts to showcase their festive spirits. Molly, Katie, Anabelle got a variety of shirts and hats to showcase their Maui swag. Once we finished, we headed back to camp where we played a couple of card games. Brooks and Brooke each took commanding wins in the games we played. Spencer helped John prepare our stir fry dinner, while Alessi and Elizabeth put some tinsel in the girl’s hair for some extra Maui bling. We are having a great time here in Maui and we couldn’t be more thankful for the strong group we have. Many memories have been made and even more are to come.
Stay Tuned!
Connor, Sarah, and John
Movin and groovin in Maui!
June 27, 2023
Hello Maui Families!
We heard from our leaders and the group has landed safely in Maui! The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure.
Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips but we will be posting up to three trip updates throughout the next couple of weeks! This will allow you to follow along with the trip and the students will also give a special shout out mid-way through! You can also follow us on Instagram, @moondanceadventures, to see more of what we are up to this summer!
-Moondance HQ
