Final Update from Chamonix!
July 24, 2024
Hello everyone! We’re checking in with our final trip update directly from the heart of France-Paris!
Our day began with an early wake-up in the beautiful mountainside town of Luz. Eager to embark on our big travel day to Paris, we fueled up on croissants, yogurt, fresh fruit, and other goodies. With our stomachs full, we piled into taxis, our first mode of transportation for the day. The taxis whisked us away, and as we headed towards the train station, everyone’s heads were turned outward, watching the tall mountains grow smaller in the distance. The roads twisted and turned down valleys and through towns until we arrived at the train station. We bid our lovely drivers, Sasha and Matthéo, a fond farewell before boarding our train.
Once settled in our seats for the long ride, everyone found ways to pass the time. Lizzie kindly offered up her string again, and soon Reid, Colin P., Maggie, Lexi, and Sally were all making bracelets. Each person chose various color patterns and made their bracelet for someone else on the trip as a memento. Meanwhile, Colin L., Charlotte, Finley, and Louis, feeling a bit sleepy, were lulled to sleep by the gentle hum of the tracks beneath us. A few snacks, naps, bracelets and card games later, we finally arrived in Paris!
We gathered our things and made our way to the metro station, which transported us through the city to our hostel. As we rode the metro, we took in the sights of Paris. It was strange to think that it many weeks had passed since we first arrived in Paris, yet it also felt like no time at all had passed. The excitement was palpable as we had finally made it to the famous City of Love, ready to explore all the beautiful architecture and alleyways the next day. To prepare for our big day, it was imperative that everyone don their most stylish clothes. Naturally, the only thing to do in such a fashionable city was to hit the clothing stores. After unloading our luggage at the hostel, we headed to a Parisian mall where everyone tried on various European-inspired outfits. Louis, Colin P., Colin L., and Reid opted for classic linen styles to blend in like locals. While the girls all put together awesome outfits using a motley assortment of clothes from different stores.
After shopping, we enjoyed a nice sit-down dinner at a lovely restaurant near our hostel. We ate well, devouring pizzas, pastas, chicken, seafood, and salads. Although it had been a long travel day, we enjoyed it immensely and felt well-rested for the big day ahead. We ended the day with Moonup, then tucked ourselves in for a good night’s sleep.
Early the next morning, Kate and I went to each room and woke everyone up with a nice KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK! Everyone had plenty of time to get ready, shower, style their hair, and perfect their outfits for the big day in Paris. One by one, as people were ready, we made our way down to the hostel lobby. Each time someone walked out of the door to the stairs, it was like a mini runway show as we got to see everyone’s fancy looks. It was so fun to see everyone dressed up, a sharp contrast to the sweaty, dirty state we had grown accustomed to while trekking through the mountains.
We then walked over to a nearby bakery and indulged in various delicious local breakfast treats, from apple fritters and strawberry muffins to classic croissants. Energized by our treats, we navigated our way through the metro station’s maze-like tunnels, ultimately popping out right by the Eiffel Tower. Due to the upcoming Olympics, nearly every major attraction in Paris was blocked off and closed to the public. Luckily, the Eiffel Tower was one of the few monuments with a small open path. We followed the well-marked signs down various roads until we were suddenly staring up at the Eiffel Tower in all its iron glory.
The only logical next step at one of the world’s most famous monuments was to take photos, and we certainly took our fair share. After several poses, we set our sights on the next open destination, the Arc de Triomphe. A quick metro ride later, we were greeted by the 218-year-old monument. The gorgeous stone structure sits in the middle of the third-largest roundabout in the world. The sight of cars whizzing around it in circles made it even more impressive.
Another photo shoot broke out as everyone pretended to be models showing off their outfits. After soaking in the view, we decided that if most of the sights were off-limits, we might as well enjoy some shopping! We bounced from store to store, trying on glasses, bracelets, shirts, shoes, and everything in between. One store even had a high-tech cotton candy machine, and Lizzie, Lexie, and Sally got a flower-shaped cotton candy treat.
Shopping made us hungry, and we found ourselves missing home food. We couldn’t wait another day, so we went to one of the most renowned French restaurants of all time: Five Guys. The burgers and fries filled our ravenous appetites and made us feel right at home in a foreign city. After satisfying our cravings for American food, we sought out a true French delicacy at the world-renowned Ladurée macaroon store. The delicious smells wafting through the air drew us in like cartoon characters. Although many bought macarons as gifts for friends back home, the temptation proved too great, and soon the nicely packed boxes were opened, and macarons were being devoured with big smiles on everyone’s faces.
Riding the sugar high, we continued our walk-and-shop session until we ended up at the official Olympic merchandise store. Every kind of souvenir imaginable was sold there: watches, pins, coins, shirts, jackets, puzzles, posters, keychains, magnets, and statues. Seizing the rare opportunity to get authentic Olympic merch, we piled our bags high with trinkets before checking out.
By now, everyone’s feet were getting tired-we had quite literally shopped until we were ready to drop. We hunted down the famous Luxembourg Gardens and enjoyed a break among the well-manicured bushes, trees, and assorted flowers. After resting, it was almost dinner time, so we hopped back to our feet and headed to our reservation.
In honor of our final dinner together, we dined like royalty. The restaurant offered just about anything you could ever want, and everyone eagerly tried different foods. The fan favorite was the grilled chicken, but the tapas plate came in a close second.
After dropping off our steadily acquired bags, we set out for our Moonup spot: a lovely gazebo in the middle of a small park. There, Finley and Reid led us in our final Moonup as we snacked on delicious ice cream treats. We reminisced about the trip, how we had grown as individuals, what we would miss, how we hoped to change, and what we appreciated most about each other. We ended the night with a great big group hug where no one wanted to be the first to let go.
It’s hard to put into words how truly amazing these past few weeks have been as we traveled across France, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. We have shared laughs, tears, all kinds of foods, sickness, triumphs, smiles, and countless other experiences. Once a group of strangers, these twelve people now feel like a family who love each other dearly. Saying goodbye is a bittersweet moment. Everyone is excited to see their family and share their new stories and experiences, but no one is ready to part with their new best friends. The tears that flow as we head in separate directions serve as undeniable proof of our deep care for each other and the forever cherished memories of our time together.
See you all real soon; this is Cham 5A signing off!!!
Hiking our Way Through the Pyrenees!
July 22, 2024
Greetings from the bustling city of Paris, here’s the latest from our incredible journey!
After a quick, hearty breakfast in L’Escala, we boarded a bus to Luz, France. The long ride was filled with sleeping, snacking, and marveling at the unexpectedly luxurious European gas stations. Upon arriving in Luz, we hiked up charming cobblestone streets to find our hostel nestled next to a historic stone church. With our packs ready for the Pyrenees trek tomorrow (quicker and lighter packing this time, we’re practically pros now), the sounds of Bastille Day festivities drew us outside. We wandered past bands blasting music, shops giving samples, and everyone showing their national pride. Before dinner, we grabbed a soccer ball and hacky sack and headed to a local field for some fun. Our inventive games included hacky sack baseball, where Reid’s impressive shot exploded the ball! Meanwhile, Sally was drawing, Maggie crafting friendship bracelets, and Lizzie sculpting mini masterpieces from Babybel wax wrappers-dinosaur, dog, minion, you name it. Reid, Colin P., Colin L., and Louis kept the soccer ball in the air with their juggling skills. When our much-anticipated pizza dinner finally arrived, we dug into a variety of flavors and then circled up for Moonup. LODs Colin and Charlotte led us in discussing our greatest qualities and those we hope to improve. We capped the night by stargazing, until a spectacular fireworks show, perfectly synchronized to music, erupted above us. We then hurried to bed, eager for the trek ahead.
The next day, we awoke early to gather around a cozy table with bowls of coffee. After breakfast, we did some last minute packing before meeting our guide Mandy. After a short commute to our trailhead, we received a quick route briefing then started into the dense forest. The shaded path was lined by a stream and dotted with gushing waterfalls. We climbed upward until we were led to the stunning Lac de Gaube, a glacial lake nestled in the mountains. There, we took a lunch break to rest and soak in the view. Continuing up the valley, we headed into a giant glacial cirque, surrounded by breathtaking angular mountains and a flat grassy floodplain.Our hostel for the night sat perched upon jutting rocks, with a perfect view of the cirque. Before settling in, we couldn’t help but sit and stare in awe at the gorgeous scenery. Once moved into our room with epic triple-decker bunk beds, some decided to take pre-dinner naps while Colin P. and Maggie found fellow hikers to play a few rounds of Kemps. Later, dinner was a feast of soup, stew, couscous, and dessert bars. Under the pink-tinted mountains in a grassy meadow, we circled up for a Moonup full of giggles and gratitude for an amazing first day in the Pyrenees. Our loyal LODs Sally and Reid asked the fitting question “When did you feel most loved?” amidst our gratitude fest. We then ended with a game of Slack Jaw, where George clinched the win against Charlotte in the final. With hearts full and spirits high, we skipped back to our bunks, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
We woke up on our next day of trekking to a stunning purple sunrise, the sharp peaks of the cirque glowing in the early light. Fueled by breakfast, coffee, and some delirious early morning chats, we packed our bags and grabbed lunch. The cool morning air was perfect for a quick round of “I Love London,” where Reid wowed us with his lawnmower dance move. Our trek began with a steep climb, where we crossed through alpine grasses and fields of rocks. Just before the top, we hit a large patch of snow. Thus, we planted our feet firmly and hoisted ourselves to the summit. Finley inspired excitement as we crossed the border from France into Spain, cheering for our accomplishments.
After taking in the breathtaking view and maintaining our footing despite strong winds, we descended a steep rocky path. Along the way, Louis and Sally led a spirited sing-along to “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Our trek continued through rolling meadows and along beautiful hillsides, where we watched grazing cows cross our path. We found a perfect riverside spot for lunch, basking in the sunlight and listening to the river’s gentle flow. Colin L. even braved a dip in the frigid waters to refresh himself. We all then lounged on rocks, sunbathing like lizards and enjoying post-lunch naps. Refreshed, we continued our trek, passing overhanging rock walls until we reconnected with the river, which led us to Bujaruelo! There, we discovered a large arched cobblestone bridge over a clear blue stream. We quickly dropped our bags and took an afternoon dip. Colin L. and Colin P. found a ledge to jump from, while Reid used the water as an ice bath for his aching muscles. After warming up in the sun, we cleaned up and enjoyed a dinner feast of pasta, sausage, fries, with berries and cream for dessert. Our day ended with a riverside Moonup led by our LODs Lexie and Colin L. There, they asked us about our spirit animals and role models. We closed the night with a rock-skipping contest, with Louis pulling out the win with an impressive 8 skips!
The next day, we awoke well-rested in Bujaruelo, finally getting a good chance to sleep in. After a hearty buffet breakfast, we packed up for the day’s trek. LODs Charlotte and Colin briefed us on the route, and we set off along the river through a beautiful pine forest. As we walked, the river sank deeper into a steep canyon below us. Our trek then took us upward, crossing daunting rock walls with the help of rope rails. Atop a small canyon overlooking the valley, we found a shady spot for lunch. From there, we took in the birds-eye view of tomorrow’s journey into the Ordesa Canyon. Afterward, we continued until the town of Torla came into view and descended through lower forests, dirt paths, and finally cobblestone roads until we reached Torla. After setting down our stuff, we hurried to the water, once again, for a post-hike swim. Under a large stone bridge, we found a rushing spot with a large eddy perfect for swimming. Everyone took the plunge into the cool waters. Lexie boldly submerged herself for a long time, while Louis and Colin P. discovered a perfect jumping spot, floating down the river until they swam out. Lizzie let out her battle screech as she leapt, Reid showed off his hops, and Colin P. and Louis made impressive poses. We all gathered on the rock slab shore to warm up before heading back to the hostel. That night, we had a rare pre-dinner Moonup by the historic church in town, where LODs asked us about impactful moments in our lives and the lessons we’ve learned. We finished with a game of Conductor before heading to dinner. Around the table, we enjoyed a big Spanish dinner, with Finley and Lexie filling the air with laughter and stories from the day. With full stomachs and heavy eyes, we all scurried off to bed, ready to prepare for the next day’s trek.
Our day began bright and early with a delightful spread of European breakfast classics. Toast slathered with Nutella, butter, and jam fueled us up as we headed to the bus stop. We boarded the bus and enjoyed a scenic, winding ride into the base of the canyon. The early hour meant the sun had yet to peek over the tall mountains surrounding us, adding a serene, cool vibe to our morning. With packs on our backs and trekking poles in hand, we set off on our hike. The day started with a steep ascent, climbing nearly 800 meters. Though we were all in good shape and used to hiking by this point in the trip, what really powered us up the mountain were Maggie’s incredible storytelling skills. Her captivating tales from back home had everyone listening intently, making the challenging trek feel much easier. After a couple of hours, we reached a beautiful plateau where a stunning lookout deck awaited us. The view was like a scene from a movie: luscious greens, yellow flowers, bright blue glacial water, white snowcaps, and red rocks combined to create a breathtaking symphony of beauty. We decided to reward ourselves with a quick snack break and rest. During this time, Reid discovered a hidden geocache stashed behind a sign, adding a touch of adventure to our break. Louis and Colin P. took the opportunity to pose for some epic lookout photos. Continuing our hike along the plateau’s edge, we found it nearly impossible to keep our jaws from dropping in awe at the stunning scenery. We paused for lunch in the shade of a large boulder, where some of us took a quick siesta in true Spanish style, while others continued to laugh and chat. With full stomachs and rejuvenated legs, we strapped on our packs and set off once again. Our journey then took us on a slow descent toward the base of the canyon. Finally reaching the bottom, Colin L., Louis, Colin P., and Reid made sure to capture the moment with a picturesque photo shoot in front of the giant waterfall at the canyon’s end. Maggie, Lexie, and Kate splashed water on their faces to cool down, while Finley and Sally dunked their hats in the icy water before placing them back on their heads. Once everyone had cooled off and taken plenty of photos, we turned our attention to the remainder of the hike, which led us through the canyon rather than above it. We followed the winding river all the way back to where we had started earlier in the morning, passing more waterfalls than we could count, each flowing into inviting blue pools. In celebration of our successful hike, we treated ourselves to some delicious ice cream. Charlotte and Lizzie tried an ice cream Snickers bar for the first time and joyfully declared it a life-changing experience! After waiting in line for the bus, we took the winding road back to town, the ride flying by as almost everyone fell asleep, tired from the day’s adventures. Back in Torla, we walked to our hostel, showered, and rested before dinner. Dinner was a treat, with everyone able to choose their own meals from a menu that included lamb, pork, rabbit, salads, cod fish, gazpacho, and fried eggs. Dessert was equally delightful, with chocolate ice cream being the crowd favorite, though Louis and Colin L. swore by the melon fruit. We concluded the day with Moonup, led by our LODs, where we reflected on the day’s experiences. Exhausted from the long and hot day, it wasn’t long before everyone was ten toes up and two eyes shut, ready to recharge for the next adventure!
We awoke to a nice cool morning with small birds chirping outside our windows. Unfortunately, a small stomach bug had affected some of our group, so we quickly formulated a new plan to ensure everyone could still enjoy the day while prioritizing health and recovery. Those feeling up to it continued with the planned activities, getting a lift over to Bujaurelo, situated at the base of the pass we would be climbing and crossing today. Meanwhile, another group consisting of Reid, Finley, Colin P., Colin L., Lexie, and George took a taxi along one of the most scenic roads in France, famously used for the Tour de France. Along the way, they saw many bikers practicing and enjoying the world-renowned route. Words can hardly capture the sheer beauty of the mountains and valleys along this drive. While this group enjoyed their scenic ride, the other group with Kate and Mandy, Lizzie, Maggie, Louis, Sally, and Charlotte began their ascent up the pass. They paused occasionally to marvel at how far they had come, with each turn offering stunning vistas. The trail transitioned through various landscapes, starting with tall green trees, which gradually shrunk into bushes and shrubs as they climbed higher. Eventually, even the shrubs gave way to the loose rock terrain of scree fields. Despite the changing terrain, the group kept pushing forward! Before they knew it, the final 100 feet of the pass were in sight. Fueled by a burst of excitement, everyone’s pace quickened. Upon reaching the top, the group locked hands and joyfully jumped back and forth over the border between Spain and France, alternating between saying “Bonjour” and “Hola.” Eventually, the two groups reunited in Gavarnie. We got to explore the charming town, with Louis, Maggie, Sally, Charlotte, and Lizzie trying their hardest to secure a donkey tour. Despite Louis’ best efforts, the owners, speaking only French, explained through hand signals and noises that they were closing for the day. Back at our hostel for the night, Maggie led the cook crew, whipping up a delicious Bolognese pasta with Caesar salad and assorted veggies to top things off. We ended the day with a wonderful Moonup by the side of a trickling river, where we shared our appreciation for everyone, including our fantastic guide Mandy. With hearts full and spirits high, we hit the hay, ready for whatever adventures awaited us next.
The next day, some members of our group woke up ready for a day hike, while those feeling under the weather took some much-needed rest. Louis, Maggie, Sally, Finley, and Charlotte were up for the challenge, and Mandy led our intrepid group along a path through Gavarnie and into the forest. We followed a river that led us to a beautiful hotel nestled below a massive rock bowl in the mountains. Behind the hotel, we found a trail that crossed several streams and rockfall paths from the steep walls above. Our excitement grew as we neared the ascent to the base of the waterfall. Sally and Finley’s screams of amazement echoed as we approached the towering cascade. The strong breeze and spray from the falls had us donning our rain jackets. Maggie, Finley, and Louis braved the steep rock paths, hiking closer until it felt like we were in a storm rather than under the sun. After exploring and capturing the moment with plenty of pictures, we headed back down, navigating snowy trails to the bottom. Our return journey wound through floodplain meadows, where we enjoyed snacks, chatted, and even spotted donkeys by the river. Back in Gavarnie, everyone explored the town, collecting knick-knacks for loved ones and sharing cold drinks to refresh after the long hike. Once we regrouped, we loaded into vans for our transfer to the next hostel in Heas. Our new hostel sat in a grassy meadow beneath a flowing waterfall, offering a stunning view of the high mountains. We settled in for the night and enjoyed a charming dinner, savoring our last evening deep in the Pyrenees. After dinner, we gathered in the field for Moonup. LODs Louis and Sally asked us about the qualities we admire in those we love, sparking thoughtful and heartfelt conversations. We wrapped up the night early, ready for some well-deserved rest.
The next morning, after a quick breakfast, we headed back to Luz where our journey had began. We took today to recover, recuperate, and explore the town of Luz. Feeling a bit better, everyone wandered the town, looking for souvenirs and catching up with their pals. We gathered together in our hostel to play card games and chit-chat before sharing a pizza dinner. We had Moonup next to the beautiful church nearby, where we talked about what we’ve learned about ourselves during this trip. One thing we know is that, though we’ve faced both highs and lows, we can always find solace within each other. We wrapped up our night with enjoying each other’s presence, once again, as we feel the trip coming to a close.
Now, we’ve made it to Paris! Stay tuned for the stories we’re excited to share from the bustling city!
Signing off for now,
George and Kate
Shoutouts:
Happy Birthday Mom! I hope you had a really good day and I’m excited to see you in a few days and tell you guys everything! Pyrenees trekking was such an adventure was such an adventure and I have lots of stories. Thank you for encouraging me to go, this has been an awesome experience. Love, Sally
Hey y’all! I miss y’all so much! Happy Birthday Mom and Dad, I can’t wait until you see your birthday surprises! Thank you so much for this trip! I’ve had the most amazing time and I have new friends from all over the world! Can’t wait to see you! Lots of love, Lizzie
Hey! Thank you so much for sending me on this trip. It was absolutely incredible and I have so much to tell and show you guys. I can’t wait to see you soon! Love, Finley
Hi family! I miss you guys so much now. This trip has been so awesome. I love the group and it’s been life-changing. Thanks for sending me here. I am however excited to come home. Just a few days left! Love you all so so much and can’t wait for the great hug I’m expecting. Love, Maggie
Hey Mom and Dad! I just wanted to thank you guys so much for sending me on this trip! It’s been genuinely life-changing. I’ve gotten to see so much of the world and meet so many incredible people. I know it wasn’t easy to give me this opportunity, so I want you guys to know that I’ve taken full advantage of everything. I’ll be home soon! Can’t wait to be back! Love you all! – Louis
Hi Mom and Dad, I hope you’re both doing well and Mom is recovering quickly. I’ve had a great time on my trips, so thank you for sending me on it. I can’t wait to get home and see you all. Love, Colin Lassiter
Hey Mom and Dad! I hope y’all are enjoying time with an empty nest. Tell Poppy that I hope she’s having fun at camp and that I say hello from Paris. I have had the greatest time on this trip and have an abundance of stories to share when I get home. I am looking forward to seeing you all in a few days. I want to say thank you for giving me this opportunity as this trip has truly been generational. Tell Bunny I said hello. See you soon! Love, Reid
Mom, Dad, and Vi, I can’t wit to see you in a couple days! I just wanted to say thank you for sending me on this trip. I’ve seen so much of the world that I never ever knew existed and I feel like I have made life long friends that I will stay in contact with far after this trip is over. Love you, miss you, see you soon. Love, Colin Peck
Bonjour! We’re in Paris! The past three weeks have been so much fun, thank you for sending me on a 3rd Moondance. I love and miss y’all and can’t wait to see you soon. Love, Char
Hey Mom and Dad! We finally made it to Paris! Thank you for sending me on another Moondance, this has been such an amazing and life changing experience. I am so excited to tell you all about it. I have made so many amazing memories and friends, you will all love the stories. (p.s. tell Jeff I love him and miss our lingo and roblox time). Love, Lexie
Checking in from Costa Brava!
July 14, 2024
Hey friends and family!
Checking in from Luz, France, where we will begin our trek in the Pyrenees tomorrow! For the past three days we’ve gotten to rest our weary feet as we traded in our hiking boots and trekking poles for flip flops and paddles Here’s what you’ve missed:
A long travel day from Chamonix, full of card games, naps, and sing-alongs, brought us to L’Escala, Spain. We watched out the window as mountains turned to sea and forests to sandy plains. As dusk approached, we unloaded from our last bus in time to make ourselves at home in quaint bungalows only a small walk from the gorgeous coast. Once everyone moved in and the moon had risen (a waxing crescent, as Charlotte informed us) we came together for our usual nightly ceremony. At Moonup, LODs Finley and Reid encouraged everyone to open up, expressing hardships which have shaped us. We wrapped up our night with hugs and kind words, finding that this group of strangers feels more like a family than ever. Right before departing the circle, out of the corner of her eye, Kate caught sight of something flashing across the sky. Everyone turned to watch a massive orange and blue comet streak the sky, seemingly moving in slow motion before dissipating into the dark night. All of us sat in disbelief of the awe-inspiring sight, feeling as if the world was providing wonders solely for our eyes to see!
We woke the next day to the sun warming our tents and the smell of homemade breakfast ushering us outside. Eggs, bacon, sausage, and fresh fruit filled our stomachs before starting to get ready for the beach! Everyone threw on their bathing suits, packed their lunches, and grabbed beach entertainment. We all wandered to the beautiful Spanish beach to find a perfect spot to plant ourselves for a day in the sun. Immediately, everyone rushed into the clear blue Mediterranean waters. While in the water, we began a game of “keep it up” or “tips” with a soccer ball, where Reid wowed us all with his impressive moves and clinched multiple wins. Afterwards, we sprawled out on the beach, soaking up the sun, chatting, and snacking to our hearts’ content. Our wanderlust led us down a trail along the edge of the inlet, where we discovered a prime spot on the rocks to sunbathe like lizards and take daring leaps into the water. With our skin now encrusted with salt, we made our way back to our belongings, packed up, and returned to camp to cool down. To everyone’s delight, a surprise gelato stop revitalized our energy as we walked back to our camp. Feeling refreshed, we hung out by the pool, jumping into the cooler waters and playing games like “chicken fight” where one person sits on another’s shoulders and attempts to knock the opposing person from their teammates shoulders. Some people also grabbed ice drinks and took a well-deserved nap. Lizzie and Louis had their faces painted, transforming them into a cat and Batman respectively. Inspired by the face paint, Louis donned an all black outfit in an effort to look more like Batman and filmed a cinematic master piece capturing his new look with the help of George! LODs Maggie and Colin P. joined a grocery store run to gather the makings for a truly American feast: burgers, caprese, and yet another ice cream surprise. The sounds and smells of sizzling beef and the knife dicing tomatoes filled the air, our stomachs could hardly wait! After we housed our delicious, decadent, and delightful dinner, we headed back to the beach just before dark. Everyone plopped down right by the water for Moonup, where ‘Batman’ opened the nug jug. We described each other’s auras and shared impactful things that have been said to us through our life and how they impacted us. Deciding to linger as night fell, Lizzie found perfect skipping rocks, and we enjoyed piggyback rides. The night ended with a serene stargazing session as classical music played softly in the background. We spotted the Big Dipper and several shooting stars, but mostly just spent time soaking in the beautiful moment. Skipping back home, we were excited and ready for our sea kayaking adventure tomorrow!
We kicked off the early morning with a feast of big breakfast burritos to fuel up for the day ahead. After slathering on sunscreen, we set out for a scenic Spanish river adventure. The weather conditions made it perfect for paddling, so we traveled to the river, buckled on our PFDs, and got a quick lesson on proper paddling techniques. All of the kayaks were tandem, so after everyone was paired up and ready to go, we pulled our boats to the water and began our float. The river wound its way through beautiful landscapes, and we occasionally hit some rapids that added a splash of excitement. As the water calmed, some pairs decided to challenge themselves by standing up on the boat. Maggie and Colin P. were the ultimate duo, standing up together and showing off their balance skills! We even challenged another group to see how many people could fit on one canoe, and guess what? We won! All 10 of the kids were able to fit onto a single kayak without sinking it! To celebrate, Reid playfully tossed the boat over, sending everyone into the refreshing water. The rest of the ride turned into a lazy river float, with gentle paddling and lively conversations with our paddle mates. Many dipped their feet in the cool water, enjoying the serene surroundings. Along the way, we spotted many turtles, birds, and fish. A lucky few of us even saw a river otter before it hid underwater. Eventually, we reached the shore, pulled our boats out, and headed back to our bungalows to make lunch. Embracing the rest and relaxation portion of the trip, we lounged by the pool, once again indulging in cold drinks and well-deserved naps. To stretch our legs, we took a walk and ended up at a charming restaurant. There, we were surprised with a cooking lesson! We met with a chef who taught us how to prepare a traditional Spanish meal. Sally and Reid dived into making homemade pesto, tweaking the recipe until it was just right. Finley and Maggie whipped up some delicious guacamole, Colin L. chopped lettuce, and Colin P. cooked meat for paella. Lexie and Lizzie teamed up to grill bread to perfection. We gathered around our crowded table to feast on our culinary creations, learning how teamwork and collaboration can produce amazing results. For dessert, we indulged in decadent lava cake. After dinner, we took a scenic walk around the inlet, following a small trail parallel to the beach. Lizzie led the group across the rocks and up a hill until we discovered a large, castle-like structure perched atop a rocky bluff. Our sense of adventure took over as we ventured further, finding a secret tunnel beneath the structure. We turned off our lights and trustfully followed the shoulders of those in front of us, making the exploration even more thrilling. Exiting the tunnel to a stunning view of the coast, we found a cozy spot near a small watchtower for Moonup. LODs Colin L. and Lexie led a heartfelt session, asking everyone about their comfort movies and discussing things we’ve come to accept about ourselves. We wrapped up with a lively game of Ninja, bringing out everyone’s competitive spirit. As the night sky blanketed us, we walked home, passing classic Mediterranean-style houses, singing, skipping, and running all the way back to our bungalows. With hearts full and spirits high, we drifted off to sleep, eagerly anticipating tomorrow’s sea kayaking adventure!
The next morning we awoke feeling fully rested and ready to set sails on the sea! We enjoyed a pancake breakfast before traveling to a small beach to meet our guides. Today, the wind was roaring, creating white crested waves along the horizon. Our guides briefed us on how to handle to rough waters until we were itching for the challenge. One again, we all suited up, grabbed our paddles, and secured ourselves into our kayaks with our spray skirts. Then, we were off! Everyone paddled hard, pushing the noses of their boats through the choppy waters. We remained close to the tall bluffs lining the shore where Reid took daring moves to thread between narrow rock passages. We all ducked into several small bays to seek shelter from the waves before heading out again. As we turned a large corner, we moved towards a rocky beach where we settled in for the afternoon. Six at a time, we loaded onto a small motor boat which cruised us along the shoreline. There, we learned about the area and squeezed into caves that opened into massive rock rooms, including the biggest cave in Costa Brava! After everyone got the chance to enjoy the views, we ate a quick lunch before climbing back into our kayaks. On the way to shore, Colin P. surfed the large waves, shooting him up to the beach. Tired from the journey, we drive back home to rest. Maggie served as sous chef for dinner, manning the pasta and garlic bread at the stove. Together we gathered for an early dinner of pasta, caesar salad, and garlic bread before making our way to the beach one last time. The group took their last chance to play in the Mediterranean sea, taking a night time dip. We then indulged in a few rounds of hacky sack and soccer ball juggling. Finally, Louis and Lizzie circled up the group for Moonup where we discussed how we would harness the power of a time machine. After closing with a race across the beach, the forested trail was filled with laughter on the walk home. We all scurried off to bed, dreaming of the mountainous adventure to come.
Now, we’re in Luz, France where tomorrow we venture into the wilderness of the Pyrenees mountains! We can’t wait to check back in and tell you about our adventure through the mountains!
Update from Chamonix!
July 12, 2024
Bonjour everyone!
This is Chamonix 5A checking in from L’Escala, Spain, where we’re getting prepped and ready for our adventure at sea. We’ve wrapped up our time on the Tour du Mont Blanc and we can’t wait to share the stories you’ve missed!
One by one, everyone arrived to the bustling city of Paris, loaded with two weeks worth of clothes and gear on their backs. After polite handshakes and get-to-know-you conversations, our first European journey began. Our first train, despite bathroom obstacles and diving to catch transfers, brought us into the city for our train to Geneva. There, we settled in, getting the opportunity to relax, chat, and catch up on sleep. Lexie refreshed her skills in solitaire, aided by her tablemates, to pass the time. One last ride via bus wound through small roads framed by the towering mountains of the alps into the town of Chamonix! Greens hills grew into steep bare rock bluffs with overhanging glaciers as our necks craned upwards, examining the terrain ahead. We made ourselves at home within the landscape and in our hostel. Some continued their sleep, others indulged in banana-grams and all rushed into the dining room as dinner time approached. We were greeted by a feast of spaghetti, salad, chicken, and, in true french fashion, crème brûlée. Afterwards, we nestled into a small field outside for moonup, our nightly ritual to reflect on our day, to discuss what brought us here. We shared nuggets of gratitude and silly moments from the day, then finished with the name game. As eyes began to droop and a chorus of yawns commenced we headed to bed.
The next morning, after sleeping off our jet lag, a breakfast of baguettes and spreads awaited us. Our Leaders of the Day (LODs), Maggie and Colin L., then led the charge to get our group packed for our first section trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc! Everyone packed with ease and speed, as the beautiful day outside called our names. After a quick check over and lessons on how to fit a pack, our group scurried into the sun, ready to explore. Right outside of our hostel home, large shadows flashed over us as hundreds of paragliders flew overhead. Mesmerized, we followed theirs path and strained to keep them in view. Eventually, we stumbled upon a soccer field where two local frenchmen asked to join us in a game. We split into two teams, each captained by one of our new local friends. Colin P. and Reid quickly showcased their skills, dribbling past their competition and making tricky combinations to get shots on goal. Down by three, Maggie took control for her team, hitting precise goals whilst rocking her hiking pants and tevas. The game remained close until Louis made a fantastic goal to finalize a win for his team! Heated by the sun, we decided to say our “good games” and take a break for lunch. A quick jaunt brought us to a park where George had set up a festive 4th of July picnic. There, we ate hamburgers and fries on plates and napkins adorned with red, white, and blue. As we digested and laid in the grass, Lizzie pulled out supplies for friendship bracelets and Finley created elaborate clover flower crowns. Meanwhile, the boys explored the nearby lake where Reid skipped some particularly crispy rocks. Next, we went into downtown Chamonix to run errands and, of course, enjoy some gelato! We sat by the river to finish our cones and pass around juggling balls in lieu of a hacky sack. The game continued back at the hostel, now using the trio of juggling balls to split into groups and practice their hacky skills. Soon, we wandered in for a dinner of shepherds pie, veggies, and ice cream dessert. For moonup, our LODs led us to a field of sheep under glowing mountain peaks. Each person got to show off their best accent, Charlotte impressing the crowd with her Irish, before discussing our happiest moments and sharing our peaks, valleys, and horizons. Afterwards, everyone walked home in a huddle of giggles to then settle in for a good night of rest before our first day of trekking!
The new day greeted us with great weather and warm coffee to energize us. Today, we would begin the south route of the Tour du Mont Blanc! After a last minute pack up and distribution of gear, we walked to a bus which took us to Les Houches. There we rode a cable car that flew us high up into the mountains and up to our trailhead. The hike began with a downwards trek through the lush forest still moistened by morning dew. With our LODs, Charlotte and Louis, leading the way, we scuffled down rocky trails and across a bridge suspended over a rushing glacial river. Eventually, we started moving up the glacial valley with a smooth rhythm now that our legs were all warmed up. We stopped for snacks, water, and a quick geology lesson of the expansive terrain before walking along a flower-filled ridge to our first pass. Once we conquered the pass, we took in the view and celebrated with a picnic lunch. Over the bluff, down and through scenic pastures, stood our hostel for the night. Back and forth down switchbacks we hiked until we arrived in Miage, planted deep in a cirque carved by ancient glaciers. Once we settled into our home for the night, we gathered by the river that cut through the massive meadow. Colin L. encourage the boys to take a bold polar plunge, the girls made progress on their friendship bracelets, and George and Lexie ventured further into the valley to explore a towering waterfall. We all came together to lay in the soft grass before a golden hour outdoor dinner. Finley got adventurous at dinner, trying a few local cheeses new to her palate. After various desserts, we returned to the field for moonup. There, we celebrated our first day in the French Alps and finished with a cozy cinnamon roll hug. We wrapped up our night playing hacky sack while the orange light of the sun glazed the mountain side and Colin P. captured it from all angles.
The next day greeted us with a cloudy morning, so we snuggled together for breakfast in a cozy wooden barn, warming up with hot drinks. After we threw our packs on our backs, we hit the road and hiked up out of the valley away from Miage through the forest. Soon, we made our way down again, bracing our knees for a long descent to Les Contamines. We took a break at the bottom of the hill while Reid and Finley, our loyal LODs, walked down to the grocery store to buy lunch for the day. Walking down steep hills through narrow alleys between beautiful houses to town, Reid and Finley picked out their future French homes. As the rain started to fall, we hiked back up the alleys to find our group huddled under a tree. So we threw on rain gear and moved uphill through now muddy forests and over a skinny bridge above a rushing mountain river. We found a little wooden hut to take a lunch break, snuggled in and lit by headlamps, where we ate local cheeses from cows of the region, cured meats, and pickles. We geared up again for our final upward push to our hostel for the night. We caught sight of it as we peeked the roof over a hill, so we scurried to the top. We enjoyed the scenic view of the valley we traveled from, now hundreds of meters above it. Everyone then gathered together to learn how to make friendship bracelets, with Colin L. coaching Louis through the process. We had a bolognese dinner and brownie dessert, then moonup amidst the clouds where we shared things we desire to develop, ending with a big thumb war that stopped just as heavy droplets began to fall. It was an early night to sleep for a long day of trekking tomorrow!
Our morning began with an early rise to tackle the hardest day of our trek on the TMB. We cozied around the breakfast table, enjoying big bowls of coffee and cocoa. Our journey started by going down through the now damp forest, where conifers were draped with hanging mosses. The forest then opened up into a flat valley filled with big meadows and plenty of bovine friends, which Reid made sure to capture. We stopped at a small hut for snacks and refreshments before starting our way upwards, hiking straight up rocky trails until the landscape became a world of its own. Rolling hills became incredible mountains that looked like crashing waves, coated in a carpet of green. We made many passes through mountain corridors, approaching our final pass covered in snow and trudging up with all our might. At the top, Colin L. and Louis enjoyed an impromptu skiing session. We continued moving upwards a bit more, crossing over treacherous snow sheets, maintaining our careful footing and using our nifty crampons. We made it to the top and looked down to our next destination, then headed down, winding back and forth with rhythm. Landing at the bottom with aching knees and excitement, we frolicked through a flower field until we found “the cheese factory,” our private farmhouse chalet for the night, with a 360-degree mountain view. Everyone sat out on a rock to talk, braid, sing songs, and enjoy watermelon, while Maggie found a guitar and played us some tunes. A dinner of potatoes and raclette, traditional cheese melting, was followed by a musical performance. Moonup, led by LODs Colin and Lizzie, in the flower meadow was music-themed, with everyone sharing their favorite sound and a song that holds meaning. We finished with a game of pterodactyl where Louis took the win with his impressive impression performance.
In the morning, we started our day with scrambled eggs, croissants, and hot drinks for breakfast, as we huddled together family-style, enjoying the homey atmosphere. Basking in the morning light, we watched the sun light up the mountains around us. After packing up, we trotted through flower fields again and went all the way down to the bus stop. The bus took us to the trailhead, where we started our way up switchbacks on a mossy alpine area. The top of Mont Blanc finally came into view as we pushed ourselves to the top at Col de la Seigne. There, we crossed the border into Italy! We celebrated all together with sandwiches, fresh melon, and naps at the pass. Rising once again, we trekked down, winding through the Italian Val Veny, constantly turning our necks to maintain the view of Mont Blanc. We passed glacial lakes and rushing rivers, going down and down until we finally made it to the bus stop. A ride brought us to the famous town of Courmayeur, where we rested before having an amazing dinner of salad, pasta, pizza, and tiramisu. LODs Lexie and Louis led moonup, talking about the lessons we had learned, and ended our night with a rock-paper-scissors tournament.
A glorious buffet breakfast greeted us the next morning, fueling us for our last day of trekking. Today, we ventured deeper into the Italian Val Ferret for a day hike. Hopping on a bus into the valley, we were dropped right at our trailhead. There was no time to waste as we made our way up a ridge, playing contact on the way to make the hills feel smaller. Breaching the forest, we entered a field with a direct view of six large glaciers of the Italian Alps. We took in the view, caught our breath, and started downwards. We began with a walk, which evolved into a fast walk and eventually turned into a run due to a time crunch for the bus schedule. Sprinting down the angular trails with Lizzie leading the way, we jumped obstacles and juked at each corner, finding our way to the bottom just in time for the next bus. We relaxed our aching muscles on the bus back to Courmayeur, where guide Nathalie bought an ice cream treat for everyone. Riding back through a long tunnel we entered into the familiar valley where Chamonix lies. Once back to our hostel home, we had a ceremony to celebrate our accomplishments and said our goodbyes to our guide Nathalie. After cleaning up and reuniting with our other belongings, we had a surprise town day in Chamonix. LODs Colin and Sally took watches and led two groups through town, allowing us to enjoy our last moments in this beautiful part of the world. After taking in the charming town and collecting knick knack mementos, we enjoyed a dinner of burgers on a patio. We gathered next to the local soccer field for moonup, where Finley bravely fought off buzzing beetles. Sally and Colin L. prompted everyone to give a compliment to the person to our right and to discuss the kind acts others have done for us. As we wrapped up our night, our little group of now-friends walked arm-in-arm back home for one last night in Chamonix.
Now, we are headed to Spain for the next stop in our adventure: sea kayaking in Costa Brava! We are excited to see how this wonderful group continues to grow closer and embrace the special time they have here! We’ll be back soon with more stories to tell!
Shoutouts:
Hi Mom and Dad, Cham is great! Trekking has been challenging but super fun and the views are amazing. Now we’re in Spain! I love and miss y’all. 🌄🌲🚣 – Charlotte
Hey guys! I am having so much fun here in Cham. I miss you guys a ton but I also don’t want to go home. Love you guys! (Also please buy me a Mt. Joy ticket) 🌲🥾🌊 – Finley
Hey y’all! I’m having so much fun! My group is literally amazing! There are two girls from Colorado in my group so now we have another place to go ski! Also @Barbies, miss y’all too and can’t wait to watch Rio when we get home! Side note! Miss everyone so much and please give the puppies hugs for me! Caroline Penninger you better keep my room clean! – Lizzie P.
Salutations! I am having a very lit time 💯! Love and miss you guys so much, can’t wait to tell you about it! Say hi to Jeffry cookie. – Lexie
Hey guys! We just finished the trek of Mont Blanc and are in Spain right now. It has been great and we saw a comet last night, you would have loved it! Miss you all tons. Tell Violet not to do any dumb stuff ❤️🤙.Love, Colin Peck (there are two colins)
Hello, Cham is great! Please send the following to Dr. Gubitx and Ms. Halverson:”Dear Dr. Gubitz and Ms. Halverson,I’m really sorry for being so late on my brag sheets. I completely forgot about them until I reached camp. I’m currently writing to you through a camp shoutout to my parents because I don’t have a phone. I will get them to you as soon as possible. Thank you.Sincerely, Maggie”Also, can I go to Mt. Joy with Finley? And can you get me a ticket? Love y’all – Maggie
Hey guys! We just finished the Tour du Mont Blanc and it was simultaneously incredible and exhausting. Now we’re at a super cool village in Costa Brava. I spent today at the beach jumping off rocks into blue water and hanging out in the sun! I miss you guys so much, but I also can see myself living here forever! I’ve grown super close to everybody on the trip and I can’t wait to make more memories with them. I hope you guys are holding the farm down and I’m sure you’re saving a lot of money without me guzzling all the Landi’s gas! – Louis
Dear Mom and Dad, I’ve been having a great time on my trip so far. We just trekked Mont Blanc and spent time in France and Italy. I’m now in Costa Brava, Spain and we start sea kayaking tomorrow. After that, we will hike the Pyrenees. Mom, I hope you’re recovering well from your surgery. I miss you both and Chloe lots. Please tell Chloe to message Evelyn that my trip is going well and I have gifts for her when I get back. – Colin Lassiter
Hello family, I am doing great and I miss you all daily. I am currently in Costa Brava, Spain and we have already completed the southern section of the TMB and took a long train to where we are now. I hope you all had a great 4th of July and are doing well in Raleigh. Tell Bunny I said hello. I love you all and hope to see you in a couple weeks. – Reid
Hi mom and dad! I miss you, it’s been so much fun. Everyone is awesome. I hope you’re having fun in Nantucket! Love you! – Sally
Safe Arrival in CDG!
July 3, 2024
Hello Chamonix Families!
We heard from our leaders this morning that the group has landed safely in Paris! The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure as they prepare to begin trekking the TMB!
Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we will be posting trip updates throughout the next week! This will allow you to follow along with the trip. You can also follow us on Instagram, @moondanceadventures, to see more of what we are up to!
-Moondance HQ
