A Wild Ending!
July 8, 2024
Greetings from the Golden State! The past few days have been filled with laughter, fun, and LOTS of water! We had a joyous 4th of July celebration at a gorgeous grassy camp site on the American River. James grilled up some burgers, and we ate watermelon and red white and blue cookies between line dancing sessions. The group had a blast doing the Cotton Eyed Joe together. Lucy and Campbell led the Line dance to the new popular song, “Austin”, the group was excited about that. After lots of food, laughing, and dancing, we had a heartfelt Moonup and fell asleep under the stars.
The next morning we woke up bright-eyed and bushy tailed ready to hit the river! Everyone was so excited to start our rafting section. We met our guides at their office and were issued helmets, life jackets, and dry bags to keep our belongings in. Once we were all geared up, we loaded up in a bus and drove down to the riverbank. The group showed off their strength and cooperation as they all helped the guides carry the boats down to the water. Before we knew it we were floating down the river like pros! It was Walker’s first time rafting, but you couldn’t tell at all with his impressive paddling skills. Our first day of rafting had multiple Class 4 rapids, which the group headed on like champs. The first Class 4 called “Tunnel Shoot” had everyone feeling wide awake from both adrenaline and the spray of cold water. We REALLY got woken up though in another rapid a little ways down called “Bus Crash”. Almost the entire group swam in that rapid, with one raft flipping, and another doing what our guides call a “dump truck” where the raft stays upright but the people inside fall out. Rachel stayed strong and held on tight, being the only one to stay in the raft, even our guide fell out of that raft! Everyone was smiling and laughing as we climbed back onto our rafts, feeling refreshed from the cold river water! Lula was not expecting to swim, but she was happy she did! It was the perfect mid morning cool off. After the rapid, we stopped at a rock jumping spot – India and Harper entertained the group with the most stylish jumps. Shortly after our swim, we pulled over to the bank for lunch. We were led on a short hike up to a secret waterfall while the other guides set up a beautiful sandwich spread. After a delicious lunch we got back on our boats and continued on our venture down the middle fork of the American River. A few members of the group had the opportunity to kayak a ducky raft down the river, testing their paddling skills In our afternoon section, the only swimming the group did was voluntary! The canyon was hot, so we had fun jumping in and floating alongside our rafts in the calm water. Eventually, we made it to our campsite for the night on a lovely shady beach. While our guides set up camp and got started on dinner prep, India organized a game of ultimate frisbee in the river! We had so much fun playing and splashing around. Sam was an amazing help in the kitchen cooking up a delicious meal of steak, chicken, pasta, salad, and garlic bread. After dinner, Mimi helped whip up coffee cake and brownies for dessert! Everyone had seconds of both dinner and dessert, as we were worn out by a day of rafting under the sun! Once the group helped clean up dinner, we played a game of two hand touch football under the setting sun. Macy and Austill showed off their flag football skills. After our football game we were ready for bed! LODs Walker and Lula lead us in a great Moonup, which our rafting guides joined in on! It was so fun to have guests present for such a special evening ritual. After Moonup we fell asleep under a sky full of stars once again.
After a satisfying sleep, we rose for another day of rafting! Our guides cooked up a hearty breakfast consisting of Sausage, egg, and cheese English muffins, fruit, and even some camp coffee! We polished off our breakfasts and the group helped our guides clean up. Shortly after, we packed up our belongings and got back on the river for another exciting day of rafting! The river was quiet in the morning, so we were lucky to see a family of otters swimming around and turtles sunbathing on the bank! Chris, Harper, Lucy, and Campbell all took an inflatable kayak down the calm section of the river, floating gracefully behind our guides rafts. After a morning of rafting and cooling off in the river, we stopped for lunch alongside a gorgeous waterfall. Once again, we were led on a short hike to another secret waterfall with a clear pool. It truly looked like a scene from a fairytale! Lucy was first to swim in the pool and climb under the waterfall. Her adventurous spirit was inspiring to all! We all swam in the pool and reflected on our trip so far as the smell of fig and bay leaves floated through the air around us. After our idyllic hike we were led back down to our boats where a burrito bar was waiting for us. We each made our own chicken burritos and sat on the rocks in the shade. When lunch was finished, we hopped back on our rafts to finish out the afternoon. There were some fun Class 3 and 4 rapids in the afternoon, but the Class 6 was a real spectacle. Patrons cannot raft down Class 6 rapids, so our guides led us on a trail along the bank as we watched our rafts travel down the rapids. Seeing that much rushing water was wild! Once our rafts returned to us we continued our journey through the canyon on a peaceful stretch of the river. Harper even stepped up to guide a section of it! He did so well, raft guiding could be a future career for him! Sadly, our trip eventually came to an end and we pulled out on the bank where our bus met us with a cooler full of cold drinks. We helped the guides load the rafts back on the trailer, grabbed our cold drinks, and piled on to the bus. Although we were all exhausted from the paddling in the sun, smiles were endless as we recounted memories from our rafting trip. When we got back to the rafting office we handed back our gear and hit the road for a short drive to our next camp site. This night for dinner we feasted on grilled chicken, salad, fruit, and hot dogs. We had worked up an appetite after rafting all day! Austill and Sam led us in a both a humorous and also reflective Moonup before getting in our sleeping bags for a well-deserved sleep.
When we awoke the next morning, we kicked off our last full day with a leisurely breakfast of eggs, bacon, bagels, yogurt, and fruit. A few rounds of cards were played while we ate! After we finished up breakfast, we loaded up the van with our bellies full ready to take on the day! California was going through a heat wave, so finding somewhere to cool off was a top priority. We found some AC, where everyone could take time to write a letter to themselves. This was a very special time of reflection, and we know everyone is looking forward to receiving their letters in the future. Once we sealed and addressed the letters, we got an ice cream treat to keep ourselves cool! Afterwards, we cruised our way down to Sacramento, singing the entire way in the car. Once we arrived, it was time to hit the thrift store to find an outfit for our Banquet Dinner. Each person impressed us with their unique finds and personal style. Our group definitely turned some heads and caused some laughter and smiles when we walked into the restaurant where we celebrated our final meal together. After a delicious dinner, we got in the van for a final sing along together. This is such a musical group, and it has been so fun for everyone to share their favorite songs with one another. When we returned to our campsite, we packed our bags before LODs Campbell and Rachel led us in a bittersweet last Moonup. They did an amazing job providing us all with the opportunity to reflect on our favorite memories and moments from the trip. We laughed together and shed a few tears before falling asleep under the stars together one last time.
We are grateful for the opportunity to have gotten to know each one of these awesome kids over the last two weeks. We have all challenged ourselves, become more resilient, and had a lot of fun. They are all such special people with incredibly bright futures. Thank you for sending them on this trip! We created memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
With gratitude,
Sep and James
Hello from YOS!
July 6, 2024
Hello!! Since our last update, our group has seen, learned, and experienced SO much! We traveled from the Yosemite Valley up to Mount Shasta, stopping for camp about halfway at a beautiful state park on the water, and got to soak up the ever-changing landscape of Northern California. We were sad to leave the beautiful Yosemite National Park, but excited for our next adventure! On our drive from Yosemite to our next site on Brannan Island, we surprised the group with a stop at In-N-Out, where California native Chris taught the group how to order like a true local (double-double “Animal style”).
At camp, LODs Lucy and Rachel helped us set up a salad bar, where we enjoyed the luxury of fresh fruits and veggies now that we were out of the back country! India and Campbell whipped up some delicious homemade guacamole, which the whole group absolutely loved. Walker kept everyone entertained, teaching the group new card games, and Harper even showed a few magic tricks! After dinner, we enjoyed a beautiful sunset and fell asleep under a massive crescent moon.
We rose ready to get to Mount Shasta! The group was filled with energy and hydrating a lot in preparation for some serious elevation gain. The car ride to Shasta passed quickly, as we were all singing along to some classic karaoke hits. Once we got to our campsite at Lake Siskiyou, right at the base of Shasta, the group took well-deserved showers and enjoyed a dinner of stovetop personal pizzas. LODs Sam and Campbell led us in a great Moonup before we took on Shasta. Sam had the whole group crying from laughter with a dance performance accompanied by Chris and Harper’s harmonization.
The next morning, we drove to the office of our climbing outfitters, where they helped us prep all of our gear so that we were ready to take on the mountain! Our guides, Winston and Ollie, talked us through everything we needed to be successful in our attempt to summit. Our leaders of the day, Lula and Austill, were locked in, listening intently to our guides and helping the rest of the group get ready to begin our trek up Shasta. We split into two hiking groups, Lula and Austill heading up each, and made our way to our base camp. It was a long and physically challenging trek up, but nothing our strong group couldn’t handle. We had amazing, highly trained guides that taught us technical skills to ensure we were safe getting up the mountain. Once we got to our base camp, we were all exhausted but so, so proud of ourselves! Everyone kept up such a great attitude and was constantly uplifting one another. We had a hearty pasta dinner and a Moonup during the end of golden hour, and went to bed shortly after, as we had a huge day the next day!
We awoke shortly before sunrise, donned our headlamps, and packed our bags for the trek up the mountain. The stars still sparkled over our heads as we began walking. The sound of the snow crunching beneath our crampons was the only sound as everyone was locked in. Shortly before daybreak, we made sure our harnesses were secured and then were tied in a rope line where we climbed altogether in echelon. After reaching the top of a steeper section, we broke into four smaller climbing groups. The next few hours we used varying methods of steps (French, German, Canadian) to move up the mountain. Mimi, Lucy, and Macy had a great time with their guide, keeping the jokes coming and making sure that the challenge of climbing included plenty of laughter. They also experienced the thrill of being belayed down a steeper section, roped in. They all agreed this was one of the coolest parts of the climb. Harper, Walker, and Chris approached the mountain with a business mentality, taking calculated breaks, keeping each other accountable, and lifting each other up. They loved their guide as she kept the stories (and snacks) coming. India, Sam, and Campbell really enjoyed all of the fun rope stuff; they all agreed they would like the opportunity to rappel and pitch climb again in the future. Lula and Austill enjoyed their guide and his playful nature. They were dialed in and focused.
Each climbing group reached their own individual summit, acknowledging the hard work they put in and the amount of discipline and determination it took to get there. It was agreed by all that Shasta was one of the most challenging things they had taken on. On the way down, Walker, Lula, Austill, Chris, and Harper had the opportunity to glissade (a technical term for sliding on snow) down a few pitches of the mountain. The entire group agreed that this was a much more fun way to get back down to base camp. Camaraderie was shared amongst the entire group as everyone recounted their day and the challenges they overcame, as well as how much they enjoyed the views. At dinner, we ate everything: ramen, oatmeal, rice noodles, dried blueberries, protein bars – mountaineering really brings on the appetite. Lucy and Harper led us in Moonup as sunset was beginning. The group bonded even more over their Shasta experience, with each individual understanding that they do have what it takes to tackle hard things.
The next morning, we woke up bright and early and began our descent down. We took in the last remaining views of being at such a beautiful place. We made it back to the trailhead in record time. We unpacked our bags, bid farewell to our guides, and hit the road back to our campsite. Upon arrival, the group went to shower and relax. Over the afternoon, the group made friendship bracelets, played cards, and rested. Dinner was BBQ chicken quesadillas. Chris, Lucy, Mimi, and Campbell all took turns whipping up food for everyone, and it was delicious! After dinner, we cleaned up (Lula and Macy get the award for most organized and efficient) and had Moonup as the moon was beginning to make itself visible in the sky. This Moonup was heartfelt and brought the group closer. We ended Moonup with group participation in storytelling and then went to bed, grateful to be where we were and excited to celebrate the 4th of July.
Austill: Thank you so much for sending Macy and I on this amazing trip. I, having so much fun, love y’all!
Chris: Thank you both for sending me here! Can’t wait to get back to MB
Lucy: The first step to a good trip is good gear – thanks mom and dad!
Macy: Thank you so much for sending me on this adventure. Having so much fun!
Walker: Hi mom and dad, these past two weeks have been great. Thank you for sending me!
Mimi: Thank y’all for letting me have this experience and meeting these people!
Lula: Having so much fun, see you guys soon, thank you for sending me on this trip!
Harper: Thank you momma and dad for signing me up for this trip, met so many fun friends and I am having so much fun
Sam: Thank you for signing me up and helping me pack.
Rachel: Thanks for the experience Mom and Dad!
India: Thank you mom and dad, see you soon!
Campbell: Thank you mom and dad for letting me come on this trip, love you and see you soon!
Stay tuned for the next chapter in our adventure, and thank you for sending such awesome people on this Yosemite trip!
SEP and James
Backcountry shenanigan's!
June 30, 2024
Hello from the Yosemite Valley! We have had a magical past few days in the California backcountry. From hiking, to swimming, to sharing meals at camp, this group has kept up a boundless sense of joy and wonder, and kept each other laughing hard! Since we all met at the airport, each person in this group has made such an intentional effort to get to know one another and we are growing closer with every passing minute!
Our trip began right outside of Yosemite National park, where we spent the evening preparing for backpacking and bonding as a group. While this was many peoples first time backpacking, the excitement outshined the nerves and everyone had a great attitude as we prepared to embark on this journey together!
After a hearty breakfast inside the park, we strapped on our backpacks and LODs (Leaders of the Day) Walker and India lead us up the trail to our first camp site! As our first LODs both Walker and India set an incredible example for what a leader should be. Walkers cheerful disposition, constant encouragement, and conversation on the trail kept spirits high. India did an amazing job checking in with her group members and making sure we stopped for water when someone needed a break. The first days hike was tough with lots of uphill and heavy packs, but the group did a fantastic job staying hydrated and keeping each other motivated. When we made it to our first campsite the group put their newfound backcountry skills to the test, already setting up tents like a pro! We shared our first backcountry dinner of pasta with red sauce and broccoli. It was a well deserved meal after a long day of hiking, and no laughs were spared despite our physical exhaustion. This is such a funny group!
The next morning, after a great night’s sleep and a hearty oatmeal breakfast, we packed up camp and put our packs back on to trek to our next camp site. LODs Mimi and Harper showed excellent decision making skills and led us to the perfect swimming spot a short hike away. The LODs decided to take lunch supplies there, so we enjoyed our meal while soaking up the sun by the water. Rachel introduced us to “the RH special” which consists of: summer sausage, cheese, and cheerios wrapped in a tortilla. It’s been a HIT! Lula also showed her culinary creativity, making herself a “backcountry quesadilla” by laying out a tortilla and cheese to melt in the sun. We spent the afternoon playing in the water and teaching each other how to skip rocks. After drying off and hiking back to camp, Lucy and Campbell showed off their harmonizing and dancing skills while Mimi, Harper, Austill, and Sam chef’ed up a delicious dinner of fajita bowls. Austill learned a new method of cutting peppers that she is excited to bring home with her! Sam showed some great man power in his ability to crush the cans we used with rocks to save space in our backpacks on the way down, since we have to pack out all of our trash. We practice “Leave No Trace” in the backcountry, and everyone has been great at making sure we leave our campsites just as we found them. After dinner, the group enjoyed a gorgeous sunset from a fantastic lookout on our campsite. The sunset was beautiful, but seeing the way the group marveled in it together was even more beautiful! After the sunset Mimi and Harper lead the group in an incredible Moonup before we all fell asleep under the stars. It was such a fun experience to “cowboy camp” together! We saw so many satellites and shooting stars.
Our last day of backpacking came all too quickly! In order to make the most of our time in the backcountry, our LODs Chris and Macy made the decision to stay at our campsite so we could take a longer day hike to a waterfall. The two of them did a fabulous job leading us to the waterfall where we spent the afternoon swimming and laughing. Chris carried the lunch supplies so that we could all enjoy an “RH special” or a “backcountry quesadilla”. Macy impressed everyone with her swimming skills, as she was the first to jump into the lake to cool off after a great hike. After an incredible afternoon by the waterfall we made our way back to camp and played games under the setting sun. We had a delicious “mediterranean style” dinner. A day of hiking, swimming, and laughing left us all exhausted in the best way. Chris and Macy lead us through a great Moonup, and we all decided to sleep under the stars again for our last night in the backcountry.
We rose early the next morning, as we had a day of travel ahead of us! After cruising down the mountain back to the van we did a quick change of clothes and piled in the van to take a scenic drive down to see El Capitan and Half Dome. The views were fantastic! Each one of us was blown away by the scale and beauty of the rock surfaces.
As we prepare to take on Mount Shasta on our mountaineering section, the energy has remained high and everyone has been so encouraging of one another. It has been such a privilege for us to watch the growth of each of your children, even in such a short time. They are all eager to learn, respectful, and so so funny. Belly laughs are plentiful on Moondance Yosemite! Thank you for sending your children on this trip, we are so excited for the adventures we have ahead of us!
-Sarah Elizabeth and James
Student shout outs:
“Life is great. Miss y’all!” – Mimi
“I’m having so much fun! Miss and love you!!” – Lula
“The trip is great and my friends are amazing. Miss y’all” – Harper
“Hey everyone! The trip is going great. See you soon!” – Chris
“Bazinga! Ok love y’all bye” – India
“Pickleball injury is healing well. Miss and love y’all” – Rachel
“So thankful for this trip and I am having THE BEST TIME! Miss y’all so much and think about you guys all the time. Also my gear is perfect (thanks dad)” – Lucy
“Hey Mom and Dad I miss y’all so much. I’m having a great time! I’m still alive!!” – Campbell
“Hi Mom and Dad! I’m having a great time and I hope you are having fun in Greece! See y’all soon!” – Walker
“I’m having fun and I miss y’all ❤️” – Sam
“I’m having fun so much fun!! Miss y’all” – Macy
“Thank you for sending us on this trip! Yosemite was beautiful! Love y’all!” – Austill
Safe Arrival in Sacramento!
June 26, 2024
Hello Yosemite Families!
We heard from our leaders last night that all students have landed safely in Sacramento and the group is headed to their campsite! The trip is off to a great start and we can’t wait to share more updates from their adventure.
Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we will be posting trip updates throughout the next two weeks! 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
