BCO and Beyond!
June 20, 2026
Hi BCO Families!!!
A lot has happened before we crossed the border!
Days 10 & 11
After taking a very scenic ferry ride, we headed over to the beautiful town of Squamish to raft. After the kids packed their belongings into their designated dry bags, we loaded into the bus with our wonderful guides and immediately hit the water.
Louisa and Riley absolutely crushed the challenging rapids, fearlessly taking on the cold glacial water. Cal and Hunter rode the bull through the rapids and managed to stay on board! Lulu and Harris had the unique opportunity to experience the rafting adventure from above with the outfitter’s photographer. They both say it was some of the most amazing views they had ever seen!
After a long day of rafting, we settled onto our quaint island campsite along the river. Our guides prepared an incredible spread of meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruit for everyone to enjoy. We spent time relaxing by the river and taking in the scenery before feasting on a traditional American dinner of burgers, mashed potatoes, corn, and delicious chocolate bread pudding with hot chocolate. As we settled in for the night, Evie spotted the Big Dipper and we all admired how bright the stars were.
The next morning, we enjoyed warm French toast before piling back into the rafts. Patrick and Ellis led the boys’ raft in a singing and dancing session that got everyone excited for the day ahead.
After two unforgettable days on the river, we surprised the kids with ice cream! Jackson tried DQ for the first time and absolutely loved his Oreo Blizzard. After our refreshing treat, we made a trip to the local Walmart, where our amazing LODs, Ellis and Lulu, helped shop for the group.
Hunter stepped up as head chef that evening and prepared burrito bowls for the crew. After a hearty dinner, we had a FULL-ON lip-sync battle-and it was hilarious! The boys took home the trophy, with the girls close behind. Ellis and Will sang their hearts out while Hunter, Patrick, Cal, and Jackson served as backup dancers. Sydney led the girls’ team and brought incredible energy to the performance.
Day 12
After a relaxing couple of days on the river, it was time to hit the trails! The hike was not for the faint of heart. The hike was about 4 miles long with 2,067 feet of elevation gain.
Our LODs, Will and Sydney, did an amazing job pacing the group and serving as the voice of the people when water breaks were needed. Despite the challenge, everyone crushed it, making it to the summit to enjoy beautiful views and well-earned sandwiches. Elizabeth and Louisa especially appreciated the incredible scenery.
After making our way back down the trail and returning to camp, the kids participated in one of Moondance’s most beloved traditions: Iron Chef!
We split into two teams and laid out all of the available ingredients and supplies. The kids then drafted their preferred items one by one to create the perfect appetizer, dinner, and dessert for their leaders.
It is safe to say that we were absolutely blown away by their cooking skills. Ellis presented a beautiful charcuterie board with pepperoni slices arranged in a smiley face, while Sydney, serving as head chef, made delectable burger tacos. Cal took charge of dessert, dipping Rice Krispie treats in chocolate sunbutter and topping them with pretzel crisps. Yum!
The other team embraced a Mediterranean theme. For appetizers, Evie served a beautifully presented spread of salami, hummus, tzatziki, and creatively cut cucumbers. Riley masterfully created Mediterranean pita pizzas, and Will put a creative twist on dessert with pancake French toast.
It was an extremely close competition (split-decision), but Riley’s team took home the win, leaving the other team with dish duty!
Day 13
Canada has been such a treat, but it was time to say goodbye and head back to the USA.
After loading up the van, we decided we needed one more taste of Canada, so we made a stop at Tim Hortons. Everyone enjoyed doughnuts as we made our way toward the border. Elizabeth and Louisa continued cranking out friendship bracelets to pass the time.
A few power naps and a gas station stop later, we arrived in Seattle!
After everyone showered and cleaned up, we piled back into the van for our banquet dinner, followed by ice cream. We ended the evening with a wonderful and sincere Moonup to celebrate and reflect on our two amazing weeks together.
Day 14
How is it already airport day?! What an incredible two weeks we have shared together.
It was such a gift to spend time with this amazing group of kids. Their humor, kindness, and instant connection with one another made this trip truly special. We are sending them home with some fun new outfits, plenty of dirty clothes, tons of cooking and camping skills, and most importantly lots of great stories to tell.
Harris, Haley, and Ben are always here for you all-never hesitate to reach out.
With love,
Harris, Haley, and Ben
Thank Yous!
June 17, 2026
Will- Hi Mom and Dad I wanted to thank you so much for this opportunity we have done so much cool stuff and it would have never happened without you guys! 😊❤️❤️
Ellis- Hey Mom and Dad, I just want to say thank you for the opportunity to go on this wonderful trip to British Colombia. I love y’all and miss y’all and can’t wait to see you very soon ❤️
Jackson- Hi Mom and Dad, thank you for signing me up for Moondance I am having a really good time and it went by very fast! I cannot wait to tell you all about it when I see you in Oregon in a few days!! ❤️❤️❤️
Hunter- Hi Mom and Dad thank you so much for signing me up for Moondance it is so much fun, can’t to see you
Elizabeth- Hey Mom and Dad! Thank you soooooo much for sending me on this amazing trip! I’m having sooooo much fun and I can’t wait to see you guys. Miss y’all so much thank you again love you and see you soon!💗
Louisa- Hey!!!! Hope everything is going well at home!!! Miss y’all so much and will see you soon!! Can’t wait to tell y’all about it I have so many stories!! Thanks for allowing me the opportunity to be able go on this trip it’s incredible!!! Love y’all and see you soon so excited!!!💕❤️
Riley- Hi Mom and Dad! Thank you guys so much for sending me to British Columbia. I’m having a blast and it has been sooo cool. Love and miss you guys 💗
Sydney-Heyyy Mom and Dad!! Thank you so much for sending me on this trip! I have got to try and experience so many new things!!! It has been so fun! I miss and love y’alll! Can’t wait to see y’all! 😽✌️
Lulu- Hii Mom and Dad thank you so much for letting me get to go to Moondance and trying all these opportunities. I have been having an awesome time meeting new people and doing all the activities. Again tell Shiloh I miss her and I can’t wait to see y’all.❤️🤗
Evie- Hi Mom and Dad!! Thank you SO SO SOMUCH for sending me on Moondance!! This trip is so much fun and I love everyone on this trip!! The activities are so fun and I love surfing!! Thank you again and I can’t wait to see the fam soon!! Love y’all!🩵☀️
Patrick- Hi Mom and Dad. Thank you so much for sending me to Moondance! I’m having so much fun and I have learned so much and I couldn’t have done any of this without y’all. I’ll tell all about it too you in a couple of days. Love y’all!😁❤️✌️
Cal- Hi Mom and Dad! Thank y’all so much for giving me this experience and opportunity to have fun and try new things I have never done before. I hope you guys are having a great time at home. Love y’all and miss y’all!
Ben, Haley & Harris
Thank you for sending such an amazing group of kids with us this summer – it has been an absolute blast!!! Hopefully they can come home and cook a newly learned meal for you!
The Adventure Continues!
June 16, 2026
Hey Moondance Families!
BCO C has been very busy up here in Canada!
Days 5 & 6 – Rock Climbing and Rappelling
We woke the kids up to an all-American breakfast of eggs, biscuits, bacon, and hash browns. We definitely needed the fuel before a big day of rock climbing!
Will absolutely crushed every route at the crag, while he, Jackson, and Cal raced up the wall, competing for the fastest times. Not only did the kids get to climb, but they also learned how to belay one another. Riley and Hunter quickly became the group’s star belayers with their textbook technique.
After an exhausting day of climbing, it was time to relax at the beach. Sydney and Louisa kicked back in their Crazy Creeks, making friendship bracelets, while Cal and Ellis convinced everyone to take a quick swim and even a polar plunge. The day ended with a family-style pasta dinner cooked by the leaders so the kids could squeeze in a little more beach time. The group is really starting to grow close, and it’s been fun watching new friendships form.
The next day, we were ready for an even bigger challenge: rappelling down a 200-foot rock face. The kids were a little nervous at first, but after making it down once, many of them hiked back up to do it again (and again!). Hunter and Elizabeth were master rappellers, flying down the wall with style, while Evie set a new record for the fastest descent. Once we finished climbing, we packed up and headed toward the beautiful surf town of Tofino. We arrived at our beachfront campsite with just enough time for games before sunset. Lulu and Riley dominated the spikeball court, and we wrapped up the evening watching the sunset over the ocean.
Days 7 & 8 – Surfing in Tofino
Surfing in Canada-who would’ve thought?!
Our campsite sat right on the beach, giving us incredible views throughout our stay. The kids spent their free time playing spikeball, relaxing in hammocks, and soaking up the scenery.
We started our first full day in Tofino with a paddleboarding adventure. The water was calm, and the views were absolutely stunning. Along the way, we spotted starfish, crabs, and even a bald eagle. Hunter and Will bravely sampled fresh kelp straight from the ocean (their reviews were mixed), while Evie, Louisa, and Sydney loved getting up close with the marine life our guides pointed out. We lined up all of the paddleboards and raced across them. Patrick absolutely DOMINATED the races and effortlessly cruised across the water.
After lunch on the beach, we traded paddleboards for surfboards. Evie was an absolute rockstar, catching wave after wave and even showing off a few spins on her board. Ellis quickly found his rhythm in the water, and Louisa and Riley picked up surfing so quickly that they were absolutely shredding by the afternoon. Everyone left the beach exhausted, salty, and smiling.
We wrapped up the day exploring Tofino. The boys bought matching whale pajama pants and proudly wore them everywhere they could. Patrick proudly showcased his newly purchased chains (a new addition to his wardrobe), and Jackson excitedly purchased thoughtful gifts for his family members. By the next day, the girls had joined in on the fun, and the matching pajama trend had officially taken over camp. We explored local surf shops, admired the mountains overlooking town, and enjoyed tacos and ice cream after our long days on the water. Hunter took down what may have been the largest burrito ever served, while the rest of us were impressed that he could still walk afterward. After dinner, Cal showcased his basketball skills on the court before heading back to our campsite.
On our second day in Tofino, we hit the waves again. Ellis really got the hang of surfing and caught countless waves, while Lulu and Elizabeth continued to impress everyone on their boards. After another long surf session, we grabbed a quick lunch and headed back out for a relaxing paddleboard. Will became the unofficial team tugboat, pulling everyone around and leading the way through the water. It was another fantastic day on the coast and one we won’t soon forget.
Day 9 – Travel Day to Squamish
Today started very early as we packed up camp and began our journey to Squamish for our next adventure: whitewater rafting!
The ferry ride was a highlight for many of the kids. Some explored the food court and sun deck, while others continued working on friendship bracelets. Of course, there was also plenty of ice cream involved.
After arriving in Squamish, we had time to explore the stunning falls and a beautiful lake near our campsite. Surrounded by mountains, it was the perfect welcome to our new home for the next few days. The girls took charge of dinner, with Sydney serving as head chef, while the boys handled cleanup duties.
We’re excited for tomorrow’s rafting adventure, but for now, we’re getting some well-earned sleep after another incredible stretch of days in Canada!
Talk soon!
Harris, Haley, & Ben 🙂
Adventures in BCO!!
June 11, 2026
Hello Moondance Families!
Arrival Day: Hiiiiiii from Canada!!
Our arrival day was full of nervous excitement and big smiles, and the group clicked right away. Evie was a rock star, going out of her way to meet everyone and share her excitement for the trip. Once everyone landed, we packed up the van and headed to the Canadian border. Hunter became our car DJ, suggesting tunes that had everyone jamming out along the way. When we got to camp, we taught the kids how to pitch a tent and enjoyed a well-earned pizza dinner. Everyone settled in for the night in their tents.
Day 2 – Quadra Island Adventures After breaking down the tents, we caught a ferry to Quadra Island. The kids learned how to cook outside, and our two LODs, Evie and Ellis, whipped up a delicious stir fry for everyone. Will was the first in the group to try cowboy camping, sleeping under the stars in true adventurer style.
Day 3 – Chinese Mountain Hike & Beach Fun We started the day with a big breakfast, with head chefs Sydney and Cal grilling up some killer chocolate chip pancakes for the group. After breakfast, we headed to Chinese Mountain for a hike. Patrick led the charge up the mountain, and the view at the top was absolutely worth it. Our LODs, Cal and Sydney surprised everyone with some well-deserved candy for their awesome attitudes! As we headed down the mountain, Jackson informed us of his crazy-fast mile time (4:38) and shared stories about his family adventures. After a steep climb through the rain, we arrived at our new campsite. Hunter was the first to volunteer to help the leaders set up camp in the rain, bravely creating a dry roof for everyone to hang out under. Once the rain cleared, we headed to the beach to play in the sun and enjoy the stunning scenery. Elizabeth impressed everyone with her hacky sack skill, and we made lots of delicious chicken quesadillas. Louisa slept in her hammock overlooking the ocean, soaking in the peaceful view. Will tackled the U-Haul like a champ, throwing heavy duffels in and out no matter the weather.
Day 4 – Boating & Fishing – Jackson, our LOD, took charge right away, navigating and driving the boat to our fishing spot. Patrick was the first to get a fish on the hook, but Lulu landed a massive fish. Sydney was also in the running for the biggest catch, while Louisa used her fishing experience to reel in three fish! Riley, Lulu, and Elizabeth were thrilled to finish their long day of successful fishing with some delicious ice cream! Afterward, we returned to our new campsite and quickly set up before heading back to the beach. The captain let us take home our prized salmon for dinner. Ellis and Evie cooked the salmon for everyone, and Riley made yummy pizzas to round out the feast. It was a perfect celebration after a day full of adventure on the water. Veggie-Off! At Moondance, when a game ends in a tie, we hold a “Veggie-Off.” This time, Hunter, Patrick, and Ellis faced off with the prompt “Exuberant Eggplant.” It was a close contest, but Ellis managed to edge out Hunter and Patrick for the win. We are sooooo impressed with how awesome the kids are and have absolutely loved getting to know them! That’s all for now! We’ll check back in with y’all soon 🙂
Ben, Haley, & Harris
Student Shoutouts:
Cal – Hey Mom and Dad I’m having fun. Just went fishing!!!
Ellis – Hey Mom hey Dad having a blast, can’t wait to see y’all soon!😁
Will – Hey Mom and Dad! I’m having a blast here thanks for sending me🔥🪩
Jackson – Hi Mom and Dad I am having fun I can’t wait to see you soon!
Patrick – Hi Mom and Dad I’m having fun see ya soon
Sydney – Hey guys I have had so much fun! Love and miss y’all! Mom, Dad, Natalie, and Sandy!💗
Lulu – Hi Mom and Dad I’m having a lot of fun here! Tell Shiloh I miss her because she probably misses me.💗🔥
Riley – Hi Mom and Dad, I’m having so much fun! Woohoo Canada. The trip is great and we have terrific food!
Hunter – Hi Mom and Mad having a blast. good food
Elizabeth – Hi Mom and Dad, this trip is soooo much fun and I’m so glad I met so many new friends. Having a blast!
Louisa – Hey!! I am having so much fun and loving it! Miss y’all but this is amazing!! Love y’all!!!
Evie – Hey!! I miss y’all so much! I am having so much fun! It has been raining a little bit but I am having a blast! We climbed the Chinese mountain! It was raining but so cool! Ben and I were talking about soccer the whole time and my leaders are so sweet! Love y’all, Evie 🩵
Leader Shoutouts 🙂
Harris, Haley, Ben: Heyyyyyy guys! Having a blast across the border. These kids are awesome. We have so much more respect for y’all lol. Love y’all!!
Safe Arrival!
June 7, 2026
Hello, British Columbia Families!
We heard from our leaders that the group has landed safely! The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure.
Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we will be posting 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
