Hello from the Galapagos!
June 16, 2025
It is our first full day here in the Galápagos, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to spend it together. We woke up with the sun and started the day with our awesome LODs, Tatum and William, who got everyone hyped with a preview of the day and some great tunes on the boat ride out.
We started with a short hike where we spotted lots of wildlife, and then it was time to snorkel. The water here is breathtaking and we couldn’t wait to jump in. Thomas, Lily, and Davis got some amazing underwater videos-sea lions swam right past us, and the water was bright blue and refreshing. Abbey had a surprise visitor when a sea lion jumped right out of the water and waddled up to her, which definitely gave us our biggest laugh of the day. After drying off and warming up in the sun, we headed to a beach and had the best afternoon jumping off the boat, swimming, and relaxing. Chapman and Will were the first ones in the water and didn’t stop moving the whole time. Tatum kept the energy going and made sure no one missed out on the fun. The absolute perfect LOD! No surprises here 🙂
Later, we cleaned up and walked to a local cooking class hosted in the sweetest woman’s home. Mills took on lime duty like a pro, while Davis and Elizabeth helped prepare the ceviche. Everyone got involved, and even those who weren’t sure at first ended up loving it. Lila and Lily were on aux again with the best music, and Thomas was capturing the whole day with the camera-we’ll be so glad to have those memories later. After dinner (and some very good chocolate chip cookies back at the hotel), we ended the night with games and a Moonup that felt like a turning point for our group. We’re already feeling like a little family, and we can’t wait for what’s ahead. It sure is going by fast!
We started our next morning bright and early with breakfast at 7 a.m., then headed out around 8 for our service project in the highlands. The ride up was quiet and peaceful, but once we arrived, the energy picked up quickly. Our group spent the next few hours diving into all kinds of hands-on work from picking fruit to feeding animals to composting more cow manure than we thought possible. It was hard work, but the group showed up with the best attitudes. Even though they were clearly worn out, they found joy in the little moments. This is what Moondance is all about! Whether it was laughing through the smell or teaming up to carry heavy loads, they made the most of every minute. One highlight of the morning? A challenge to try some super spicy peppers. Chapman and Lila were all in and somehow made it look easy. Mills and John, on the other hand… not so much. Let’s just say there were some dramatic reactions and a few quick sprints for water. After wrapping up our service, we made our way back down the mountain and boarded a ferry to Santa Cruz. Once we arrived and got settled into our hotel, everyone enjoyed some downtime to relax, recharge, and reflect on the day. We ended the evening with dinner and Moonup feeling tired, but grateful for another day together.
The next morning, we woke up with recharged batteries and hopped on a new bus and headed towards the Highlands of Santa Cruz! On the way there, thanks to our JBL speaker along with Mills, John and Lila’s singing, it made a 45 minute bus ride feel like a 10 minute one. Once we arrived we were quickly greeted by giant tortoises that weighed in at over 300 pounds and were over 100 years old. Thanks to Diego’s knowledgeable facts about tortoises we were able to appreciate and learn while we walked the grounds of the highlands for around two hours seeing all different types of animals along with hundreds of tortoises. As we walked around above ground, as well as below in the various volcanic tunnels, we had many sights to see. Once we got back to the entrance the boys crammed into the shells on display for a little picture as the girls gladly stood behind for a great photo. What we didn’t know was that we had a surprise waiting for us inside with AB and Louise coming in hot from town to meet back up with the group for lunch and make us a 15 strong once again. After some card games from Davis and Will we sat down for lunch where we had a great lookout over the park and some exceptional food. After some delicious meals we hopped back on the bus headed towards the beach. Tatum and William were quick to take charge on the walk towards the beach as the rest of the group was right behind jamming out to some Toby Keith and a little bit of the Grateful Dead that Bailey and Thomas have been pushing on the group to listen to more. Once we got to Tortuga Bay we were greeted with a beautiful bay where the group hesitated no time in getting in the water…. Don’t worry sunscreen was applied first!!! As the group was in the water we had some scares thanks to John and Chapman who continuously got everyone by grabbing their legs underwater. The bay brought lots of games such as chicken fights, categories and thanks to William and his ball from the mainland a new game was invented. After some much needed time in the water, AB and the girls set up shop on the beach and got their tan on as the boys walked up and down the beach looking for who knows what. As we departed the beach we had no idea our day was just starting.
We arrived back into town and raced back to the hotel as Elizabeth, Abbey and Will were adamant about getting in their showers first. As the others played in the pool for a little while the group got cleaned up and headed to town. With many shops, restaurants and maybe some sodas overlooking the pier and some friendly sea lions while not so friendly iguanas there was nothing but smiles and tanned faces. It didn’t take long for the kids to find some local shops where Lila and Mills had the great idea for all the girls to get matching bracelets while the boys just scouted for some food. We landed on a local deli where we were blessed with pizza, sandwiches and various but yet delicious juices. Post dinner with the LODs, Will and Louise decided gelato was what the group needed. Sometimes some gelato is all you need to pick the vibes right back up which happened and we scooted around town a little longer. The boys found a store that they had to practically get dragged out of while the girls rated (and politely) judged all of their new clothing items. They definitely were a choice! Can’t wait for you parents to see what they bring home-so stylish! Once we got back to the hotel we sat down for Moonup and ended our night with showers and sleep for our early morning. At Moonup, AB and Thomas encouraged everyone to really take in these next few days-because as we all know, they go by fast. They reminded us how important it is to stay present and not let a single moment slip by. Sometimes, you don’t realize how much something means to you until it’s over, and we’ve felt that truth start to settle in. This group is something special. There were definitely a few tears as we talked about the trip coming to an end-but honestly, that just shows how much it’s meant to all of us. We’ve shared something real here. So together, we made a promise: we’re not wasting a second of the time we have left.
NEW ISLAND UNLOCKED!! The group was up bright and early today to hit the road or I guess you could say ocean. John and Bailey were the first asleep (nothing new here) with the rest of the group following close behind. From the ferry to the water taxi to the dock, we were greeted by more outfitters who quickly swapped our bags for snorkel gear-and just like that, we were off on our next adventure. Within minutes, Abbey and Tatum were the first in the water, leading the way as we searched for sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish. And of course, a few friendly sea lions popped in to say hello. Diego gave us a rundown of the unique bay we were exploring and guided us through volcanic tunnels, but Bailey and Thomas took it one step further, by swimming through an underwater tunnel. Elizabeth, AB, and Lila sat on the edge of the dock and enjoyed some mandarin oranges, where a very special guest joined us! A sea lion was laying on the dock right next to the girls, and we got to see it hop down the stairs back into the water-where it surprised Davis as he was getting out of the water. After plenty of snorkel time, we dried off and piled into a bus that took us to our new hotel on Isabela. Once we settled in, we headed to lunch where we were entertained by some classic William and Mills stories that had everyone laughing. The early wake-up was starting to hit, so we made the most of a quiet afternoon with a poolside hang, a few hammocks, and even a nap spot that Davis crafted for himself… in the pool.
Once everyone was recharged, we visited one of the world’s few tortoise breeding centers. We learned about the different species, their predators, and how these gentle giants grow and live-some up to 120 years old. The group asked great questions and stayed super engaged throughout.
Back at the hotel, our LODs Lila and Davis decided we could all use some beach time-and they were right. We packed up and headed to one of Isabela’s stunning beaches. A competitive game of volleyball kicked off immediately, led by team captains John and Mills, while Chapman dove straight into the waves showing off some serious body surfing skills. Between games, laughter, and beach walks, the energy was all smiles.
After heading back and cleaning up, Davis suggested we grab some snacks for tomorrow-so he, John, and Will made a quick grocery run before dinner. The night ended just right: full stomachs, some GoPro footage from the day, and a few more rounds of group games. We wrapped it all up with a sweet and honest Moonup led by Lila and Davis. Abbey’s laughter and Louise’s constant smile carried us into the night, and AB and Thomas gave us a preview of what’s to come tomorrow.
It’s hard to believe how quickly this trip is flying by-but as we’ve said all along: time really does move fast when you’re making the most of it. And we’re doing just that-every single day.
– AB + Thomas
Now for some thank you’s and shout outs from the kids!
William: thanks for sending me on the this trip I’m having a bunch of fun happy Father’s Day
John: thank you parents having fun. Also happy Father’s Day
Chapman: Thank you so much for the time of my life. I’m having a blast but miss and love y’all. Happy late Father’s Day Billy!
Mills: mom and dad, thank you so so much for this experience it will be with me forever and there are no words to explain how incredible it has been I love you so so much and can’t want to see yall. Happy birthday mom and happy Father’s Day dad I can’t want to see yall❤️
Lila: Thank you SO much for this amazing trip. Happy late Father’s Day…and can’t wait to see yall!!!!
Louise: thank yall so much for this trip it’s genuinely insane how much fun I’m having. Happy late Father’s Day dad I love you to the moon and back and can’t wait to see you! Miss and love yall so much!!❤️
Bailey: trip of a lifetime thank you so much happy late Father’s Day
Davis: thank you for the trip, happy late Father’s Day.
Will: Thanks for sending me on this trip. I’m having an awesome time and everything’s been really fun. Happy late Father’s Day dad, see you soon
Abbey: Thank you for this amazing experience!! I miss and love you all, see you soon!! Happy late Father’s Day ❤️
Tatum: thanks for putting me on the trip, miss yall, love yall! Happy late Father’s Day!
Lily: I’m so incredibly thankful to have the best parents in the world! Thank you so much for this experience, it’s truly unforgettable. Happy Late Father’s Day to the funniest dad in the world!! Love y’all!! ❤️
Elizabeth: Thank you so much for letting me have this amazing experience! I have had the best time and can’t wait to see y’all!! Love yall so much and happy late Father’s Day!
Greetings from Ecuador!!!
June 12, 2025
We have just finished up our first six days here and WOW – this group has been out of this world, and that’s an understatement!! Their instant connection is evident through the friendships that are already forming and the passion they bring to every activity! Whether it is the abundance of exhibition behavior we see among these kids, or the way they are able to laugh hysterically together completely unplugged, they are defining and representing everything that Moondance Magic means.
Our first day, we jumped right in. The students were instantly connected and fast friends. All seven girls walked out of customs together, ready to start the journey with new friends. After safely transporting back to the hostel, the group went over expectations and dove into our VERY FIRST Moonup with EGP 1A! After Moonup and learning all about our “B+ Superpowers,” the Leaders of the Day (LODs) were selected for the next day! From the beginning, William was quick to make everyone smile and feel comfortable in a new place. His energy and attitude are unmatched, and it was clear he was going to be a stellar LOD. Let’s just face it, you can’t help but smile when William’s around! Our other LOD was Lila, who was also so quick to make everyone feel welcome and light up any room she’s in-making her the obvious first choice for LOD! Soon after Moonup, we all crashed after a long day of travel, eager for what was to come!
For our first full day, we hopped in a 15-passenger van and headed off to the Papallacta Hot Springs. We jammed out to country music on the way there-this group has some seriously awesome music taste!! When we got there, we went on a short hike to get a better view of the whole valley. We took pictures, joked around, and Will, John, and AB debated college football (GO DAWGS!😁). After we finished up the hike, we headed to cool off in the hot springs pools. While we were there, Lila and Mills enjoyed the extra hot pool, while William was, interestingly enough, partaking in the cold plunge…. The rest of us had so much fun running around and enjoying the beautiful sights. We have loved using Lily’s GoPro for endless pictures and vlogs! Soon after this, we all started to get pretty hungry, so we decided to head to the car to find some lunch. We came across a restaurant that had a choice of fish or chicken. Chapman, Davis, and Thomas all ordered the trout, which everyone else was immediately jealous of! The restaurant also made us the most delicious and refreshing blackberry juice, which we all devoured! It was the best treat after a long morning! We headed back to camp, where we ended up playing soccer for hours on end! John especially had a star moment on the field, showing incredible skill and teamwork. We grabbed a bite to eat and showered while we patiently awaited the arrival of our missing piece – Bailey! He immediately joined with an outstanding attitude, jumping right into the fun while bringing calm and grounded energy to the group. The group would not be the same without him!
We had an early start to Day 3 as we said goodbye to Quito and headed out for a day full of adventure at Cotopaxi National Park. The bus ride to the park was made even better thanks to Elizabeth and Lila, who teamed up with AB to curate an incredible playlist-safe to say it’s one we’ll be listening to for years to come! Shout-out to Elizabeth for the incredible addition of Silver Springs! Our music tastes are full of old souls-we love to see it! Today’s leaders of the day were Mills and Will, who did a great job keeping the energy high and keeping everyone organized. Will was picked as LOD because of his impressive ability to lead with heart and humility-we’re simply all better for it. Mills is one of a kind-especially in the way she keeps us all smiling with her unmatched humor and effortless joy. As LOD, she brought energy, warmth, and the kind of fun that’s contagious in the best way. One of the highlights of the day was horseback riding around the stunning Cotopaxi Volcano. Abbey and Lily ended up with the speediest horses by far, while Louise, AB, Tatum, Thomas, and Mills brought up the rear with horses that were clearly in no rush-maybe enjoying the scenery a little too much! We galloped, laughed, and definitely smiled the whole way, wishing it could have lasted so much longer. After this, we quickly hopped in the bus and headed to Baños, where we patiently awaited another amazing day here in Ecuador!
Our next day was full of laughs and adventure here in Baños! The LODs for today were John and Louise. John is someone who people are naturally gravitated to. He has a kind heart that shows in everything we do. Louise is so uplifting to all of us!! She is hilarious, and also so genuine to her core. These two were the perfect LODs because they collaborated to bring the energy, but also kept everyone motivated throughout a really long day. We started the day with a surprise party bus-music blasting, everyone dancing (Thomas stole the show!), and good energy all around. It was so fun (and needed) to rock out to a little Lady Gaga all together! Abbey got some amazing pictures with the stunning landscape behind her as our party bus rolled through the hills. On our waterfall hike, Chapman and Davis took “refreshing” to a new level by standing directly under the waterfall-definitely a moment we won’t forget! They are always encouraging everyone to live in the moment and capitalize on everything we do. We also visited the famous “Swing at the End of the World” for some incredible fun and views. Louise and Mills win the competition for the best candid pictures, always seeming to find the camera at the perfect time!
For Day 5, we eagerly adventured to the zip lining and rock climbing portion of our trip. Our LODs for the day were Chapman and Elizabeth. Elizabeth has been a lifesaver and constant friend to all-always helping leaders, checking in on others, and making sure everyone feels included. (Also… ask her about Nick Saban when she gets home!) We’re so lucky to have her here and she is a fantastic leader. She has such a bright future and we are so proud of her! Chapman is a natural born leader-always acting without having to be asked twice. He has this natural ability to bring people together which made him an incredible LOD. We had the best time ziplining through the caves and rivers in Baños, and we keep saying we constantly see new beauty and perfection all over this country. These activities were definitely not for the weak-they required determination, commitment, and support from peers. A special shoutout to Louise for conquering her fears and climbing almost 100m up, despite her fear of heights. We knew she could do it, and we are so proud of her for sticking with it. We ended the day with a long bus ride back to Quito, where we immediately jumped off the bus to play soccer and hop in the pool before heading to the Galapagos tomorrow! Huge nugs to this group for having the best attitude, despite a few wrong turns and alternative routes, they continued to persevere and remain excited for what was to come!
Yesterday, we woke up BRIGHT AND EARLY to head to the Galapagos! We were AMPED and so ready to start this next leg of our trip. When we got to the airport, John found some fantastic bathing suit shorts with iguanas that he will be absolutely rocking. Lily enjoyed some ramen on the plane, while Lila ordered a Red Bull to pump her up for what was to come. When we got on the island, we were greeted immediately by Diego and Sebastian, our guides for this section of the trip! The first thing they told us was that “there are no problems on the island, just situations,” which is something that stuck with all of us throughout the day. We enjoyed some delicious pizza and Mango juice for lunch, which Bailey particularly loved. Once we finished lunch, we headed to the hostel to change quickly before going snorkeling! We arrived at La Loberia and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon surrounded by sea lions. WHAT A LIFE! Abbey especially enjoyed checking them out. Huge nugs to Louise for getting a fire video on her GoPro that we also ran into! We have so many talented photographers to capture all of our moments! The abundance of wildlife and great energy is infectious here! Once we got back to the hostel, William, Davis, Chapman, John, Thomas, Bailey, and Will had the most intense game of pool, while AB, Elizabeth, Lila, Louise, Mills, Abbey, Tatum, and Lily jammed out to Taylor Swift and Toby Keith – what a great combo! We decided we simply needed ice cream, because who doesn’t? We ran next door and shared a couple pints of chocolate ice cream. We ended the night with our wonderful LODs, Abbey and Bailey, closing us out with a Moonup and the hopes of another amazing day.
All of this goes to say that every single person in the group contributes something unique yet so crucial to the dynamic. From the endless games of Empire to the heartfelt Moonups, this group’s instant connection is something so special and one that we definitely won’t take for granted. All of us can’t seem to wrap our heads around the fact that every single day gets better and better – but it is the truth! Talk with you soon!! Wishing you all well from the Galapagos 🐢☀️ We never want to come home!!!
Sending our love,
AB + Thomas
Shoutouts!
Yo, what up mom and dad and Witt, hope it’s going good in Charlotte, all good here these places are really cool, anyways see you soon – Davis
Hey guys I’m having a lot of fun here, we just traveled to Galapagos yesterday which we are doing a lot of snorkeling at. Love y’all hope you are able to hold down the fort. – William
Love ya! Say hi to both b’s for me, miss y’all!! – Tatum
Hi! Having a blast I miss y’all ❤️ – Mills
Having so much fun! I miss y’all so much, say hey to the fam and Charles!! – Lily
Having a blast. Miss and love y’all! – Chapman
Having a great time everything has been super fun. Love you – Will
I’m having so so much fun!! I can’t wait to tell y’all all about it! Love y’all so so so much!!🩷 – Elizabeth
I miss you so much!! See you soon❤️ – Abbey
Hey y’all!!! I love y’all more than life and am having SO MUCH FUN! can’t wait to see y’all!! – Lila
Having fun, can’t wait to see y’all🩷 – John
Having fun! Don’t want to come home! Love ya – Bailey
Hi Mom and Dad! Love you guys so much and I miss you!! Having the best time ❤️ – Louise
The Adventure Begins!
June 7, 2025
Hello Ecuador + the Galapagos Families!
We heard from our leaders this morning that the group has landed safely in Ecuador! The group is so excited to start their adventure together!
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
