Au Revoir Chamonix!
June 24, 2026
Bonjour du France! We are back in Paris for our final moments all together. We cannot believe how fast this trip has flown by and we are sad to watch our kids go. It doesn’t feel real, that 23 days together is almost up. But here are some highlights from our last full day together.
The theme of the day… SHOPPING. Apparently Paris has some good stores to shop around in and that’s what nearly all the kids wanted to do. We walked around in the Paris heat, going in and out of stores to try and up our style. JT found a pair of sleek looking shoes while Abby, Viví, and Shelby found some stylish European Sunglasses. Charlie got himself a fancy new wallet while Jack and Rushton were on the hunt for a very specific style. Unfortunately it was never found. Other than that, shopping was a success but it was definitely tiring as we walked through the European heat wave. We definitely had to treat ourselves to some Juices and Iced Coffees as we wandered. Francie even found such a delicious waffle stand.
Obviously, shopping isn’t the only thing that Paris has to offer. As we walked around Jack would drop facts he learned about different buildings during his time in France before the trip. So much great history Europe has to offer. While walking, we stopped by the Notre Dame for a few flicks. Does it really mean you’ve seen it if you haven’t taken a photo underneath it? And isn’t it crazy that we can just waltz on over to see such an amazing piece of architecture. Rushton was happy to be the team photographer and he and Charlie really upped their photography skills throughout this trip.
After so much walking, we needed a mid afternoon break, but not before we gorged down some of the most delicious looking and tasting warm cookies and cold ice cream that Charlotte and Alice found. The cookies were so yummy almost everyone got one before taking cover at our hostel. Having AC at our hostel is honestly quite a blessing and we were very thankful for it.
After the rest, we got dressed back up again to see to most photographed monument in the entire world, The Eiffel Tower. We metroed over, stopped at a souvenir shop, grabbed groceries for a picnic and then walked over to see the lights of the Eiffel tower at night and have Moonup. Caroline made sure that we got our group’s favorite Chocolate Cracker Cookies. We all crafted homemade journals to write each other notes as we sat and thought on such a great trip. Durland and JT led us in a great final moonup and we gave each other one last group hug under the twinkling lights.
And in the morning, they packed up and we were off to the airport. One last metro journey left us heartbroken at the gates. Bags have been checked and they are on their way back to you. We cannot believe that this it the last message that we get to write to you. It has been our joy to cherish such unforgettable memories together. We hope that your kids have had as good of a time as Meg and I have. We will miss them dearly and we hope they continue making amazing adventures and keep the Moondance spirit alive as they travel home.
Safe travels home and we hope you are happy to have your kids back!
Best,
Adam and Meg
Perfect Time in the Pyrenees
June 22, 2026
Bonjour, Moondance Families!
With tired legs and sun-kissed skin, we finished the Pyrenees section, seven days of trekking through France and Spain’s beautiful mountain range!! Though the days were long and strenuous, we trekked on and managed to keep our spirits high. A special shout-out to Alice and Shelby for having such a positive and supportive mindset for the group when the trails got rocky! Luckily, throughout the entire section of the Pyrenees, there were winding snow-melt rivers rushing through rocks and pooling with a deep turquoise color. Jack and Vivian took a liking to the freezing rivers and jumped in every one, as did most of the group when the water was extra inviting.
The mountains treated us to incredible scenery every day. Around each bend in the trail, there would be another breathtaking view waiting for us, whether it was towering peaks, green valleys, grazing animals, or waterfalls shooting down rocky cliffs. Even when our packs felt heavy and our legs were tired, the towering mountains helped us muster up energy. The group became stronger with each day of hiking, encouraging one another and celebrating small victories along the way, even if that was finding the last cookie at the bottom of your backpack.
When we arrived at the Refugio with sore legs, hungry bellies, and tired eyes, the group would be taken over with reward and pride. Nothing beats the feeling of arriving at a beautiful hut in the mountains and indulging in rest while surrounded by striking views and quaint buildings. One of our trekking days, we got to our destination early and decided to turn back time and play “Lava” on the playground. Rushton and Abby had quite the time playing Lava and added to our group’s humor for days to come.
The time spent at the refugios became some of our favorite moments. Boots would be taken off, water bottles refilled, and stories and reflections of the day would begin. It was always an extra bonus if the town we were in had iced cream, this group LOVES ice-cream. Quiet moments of rest gave everyone the chance to recharge and appreciate just how much we had accomplished together and how little we really are when looking over ranges of mountains.
Dinner each night consisted of local foods and cultural immersion. At each supper, Francie never failed to light up the group with laughter! One of the Refugios had donkeys that carry trash up and down the mountain; they found themselves right at home in the doorway to the hostel. Naturally, Charlotte and Durland befriended the donkeys and were quite amused! This Refugio didn’t just have donkeys but cows, sheep, and horses roaming around.
The evenings in the mountains had a special feeling to them. As the sun dipped behind the peaks, the air cooled and everything (besides our group) quieted down. Often times, we would play our favorite group game “salad bowl” a charades-like game where we write in different memories from our trip. This game tends to bring out the competitive side of us, however the absolute comedy that emerges keeps the peace in our group!!
When bedtime rolled around, Charlie had discovered a talent for storytelling. As our tired heads hit the pillows, he amazed us with his spooky stories!
Our last day in the Pyrenees consisted of a short hike out and a rock jump into our final cold plunge of the river. Although Caroline and JT were hesitant, they last minute jumped right in and had an absolute blast, making our whole group indulge in the beautiful river as a goodbye to the trekking section. After our final plunge, we headed to Luz, where we got wonderful wood-fired pizzas for lunch and gelato to fuel our bellies for a nice afternoon nap!
As we reflected on the week, it was hard to believe how much we had seen and accomplished together. From mountain passes to rushing rivers, stomach viruses and knee pain that we overcame, and laughter through it all. The Pyrenees challenged us, inspired us, and left us with stories we will never forget!
After lots of time spent in the mountains, our group is ready to jump into the city streets of Paris, then head home and give warm hugs to family and friends!!
Thank you mom and dad for such an amazing experience! I’ve had a blast and miss you so much! I hope Drew has hit his first homerun. I can’t wait to see y’all in 2 days! Happy Father’s Day dad! Love, Rushton
Miss you guys sooo much and can’t wait to see you so soon!! I’m so grateful to you guys for giving me amazing opportunities like this. This has truly been the best experience! Happy late Father’s Day dad can’t wait to celebrate when I get home! Love y’all so much, Charlotte
Best. Experience. Ever. Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity as special as this one. I appreciate everything you all do for me!! I am so excited to see you all in a few days! Please bring the dogs to the airport! Happy late Father’s Day Dad!! See y’all soon and can’t wait to show you alllll the pictures and videos! Vivi loves YOU!!!
Thank you SO much for this experience Mom and Dad! I have had the absolute best time and the Pyrenees were actually amazing. I can’t believe the trip is almost over but I can’t wait to see y’all in just a few days! I have met the best people and I’m so grateful for being able to go on this trip! Also happy late Father’s Day Dad! I can’t wait to celebrate with you when I get back home! Love y’all so much!! Love, Durland
Thank y’all so much for this amazing opportunity! I loved the beach in Spain and we camped for several days there. We hiked for a week in the Pyrenees in and out of France and Spain. It was beautiful. I cannot wait to see y’all soon. Happy late Father’s Day dad! I am so thankful you sent me here. I love y’all so much. -Caroline
This has been the most awesome trip evert!!!! Thank y’all so much for giving me this opportunity, because this has been the coolest trip ever and I have made the best memories. I am so excited to tell y’all about it when I get back, and I can’t wait to see y’all in a few days. I love yalllll and see you soon! Also happy Father’s Day, I love youuuu! Love, Abby!!!!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to go on this trip, mom and dad! From the beautiful mountains in France and the crystal clear water in Spain, I’ve learned and seen so many new things and have had an experience I will never ever forget. You both work so so hard and because of it I’m able to have opportunities like this. I’m eternally grateful for the both you. I love you so much!! -Shelby
Thank you so much dad and mom for giving me the privilege on going on such a cool trip! I’m eternally grateful! Thank yall so much! love yall! PS happy father day dad! -JT
Thank you Mom and Dad for the amazing opportunity to go on this trip! I am literally more grateful than I can say to you guys for everything you have done for me, and I will remember these experiences forever. Love you guys so much, thank you again, and can’t wait to see you soon! A happy (late) Father’s Day to Dadu! 💕- Francie
Thank you so much for giving me this amazing opportunity to make new friends and see such amazing places! I have loved it so much and am very grateful to be on this trip! Happy Father’s Day Papa! Can’t wait to see y’all soon! Love yall!! – Alice
Thank you for for giving me this opportunity to come on this trip it has been so awesome! And happy Father’s Day dad i love you!- Jack
Thank you so much for letting me go on this trip it has been really amazing for me. I’ve seen so much and I can’t wait to tell y’all about it. Happy Father’s Day dad, love you so much!!!-Charlie
Saltwater, Sunsets, and Something Sweet
June 14, 2026
Hello Moondance Families!
Buenos Días de España! We are here in a beautiful city. After a week or so of hiking through Chamonix, one thing is for certain, we could use a beach day or three… After a long day of traveling, the kids were treated to a much needed American Burger. Francie got to show off her Spanish speaking skills by ordering for the table. Baguettes are delicious, but sometimes you just need a little taste of home, and burgers did just that! We are staying in some glamorous tents that seem more like mini houses with fridges, four beds and a couch. To end our long travel day, we glanced at the beach and had a moonup all together.
Our beach day began with some sleeping in for everyone except Rushton and I. We were up in the morning grocery shopping for the masses. We are preparing a plethora of breakfast items including pancakes, eggs, bacon, breakfast burritos, fruit salad and anything else the kids wanted. Alice and Charlotte jumped in on pancake duty while Jack soiled up some chorizo. Everyone was happy to have their bellies full before heading down to the beach. We’ve never seen water so clear, and Charlie lead the group in a little morning swim while Vivian made sure to capture the moment with her camera. The hot sand and cool water were a perfect healing combination for our tired muscles. Some of the kids wandered off to find some ice cream, and nothing beats ice cream on the beach. Before the sun got to us, we took a break to do some laundry so that we could have fresh smelling clothes for the next few beach days. Dinner on the first night in España consisted of a cooking competition between the group. Abby led her team by making delicious chicken and steak tacos with homemade guacamole and potatoes cooked to perfection. Shelby made another delicious apple crumble to compliment the dish. The other team whipped up chicken alfredo pasta while Durland and Caroline crafted DIY cookie ice cream sandwiches with Oreo crumbs on the outside. Safe to say we have some future cooks in our group. But the fun wasn’t over there… A dance party awaited our group in one of the tents, and JT showed us some moves to all of his favorite songs.
Our first day of sea kayaking consisted of a drive to a nearby beach. There, we were met with some of the most beautiful sea caves we’ve ever seen, and we got to play along the rocks and in the waves. We learned a little about the composition of the rocks, and did a lot of swimming/laying out on the beach during lunch. Our outfitters treated us to some local lemonade. We left our first day of sea kayaking in awe of the beauty of the coast, but we were really excited for the cooking class we had later that night. We learned how to cook, and we dined on the beach to salmon tartar over guacamole made by Alice, Shelby, Vivi, and Francie. We also enjoyed croquettes, calamari, and pan con tomate cooked by JT and Charlotte. Finally, we enjoyed lettuce heads topped with pesto made by Caroline, Rushton, Durland, Abby and Charlie, while Jack cooked all the meat to a traditional Spanish Paella. What a great experience!! We decided that we needed group ice cream in celebration of a delicious meal, but before that, we hurried back to the campground to change back into our swimsuits for a sunset swim. We were having so much fun in the water that we needed decided to have moonup right there, in the clear blue Mediterranean Sea to finish the night.
Our second day of sea kayaking was just as lovely as the first with perhaps an even greater lunch break swimming in the ocean. Many of us laid out on the rocks to get a little tan going, while others swam in the water cooling off and relaxing. Today’s sea kayaking had a lot of fun maneuvering through rocks which was a fun challenge and spiced up the day. What our group really craved was more beach time, and we once again spent the afternoon at the beach, then repeating our habit of getting ice cream afterwards, too. I promise we are eating many fruits and serving up plenty of salads to get our vegetables in. For dinner, we coincidentally craved burgers again. This time, we stopped by the store to cook them ourselves. This was well worth it especially being accompanied by the salad Meg whipped up. As for the remainder of the night, we went back to the ocean to enjoy a late evening swim before packing up for our trek in the Pyrenees Mountains the following day.
And that’s where I leave you. Our group is still doing incredible. Every day is filled with laughter and smiles as we continue our time dancing in the moon. Meg and I are still blessed to have such a wonderful group of kids. Each of them brings such a unique and fun personality and perspective to our dynamic, and we are grateful for each of them. You won’t hear from us until after we have completed trekking through the Pyrenees, so until then, we wish you well and are incredibly thankful for your support in allowing us to do these awesome, life changing experiences.
Best,
Adam + Meg
Sledding Through Switzerland!
June 10, 2026
Hey Moondance Families!
Bonjour from France! Our group has been having quite a wonderful time throughout the first third of our trip, exploring Chamonix and the mountains around Mont Blanc. But to get there we had a long travel day on a train from Paris to Geneva where we met our personal drivers to usher us into Chamonix. Upon arrival, everyone was so ready to stretch their legs we frolicked through the flower fields and walked around the outskirts of the French Village. It didn’t take long for the drowsiness from the day to take its toll and after a lovely meal cooked from the hostel, the kids enjoyed their first Moonup and went to bed.
The next day we got to enjoy a traditional French breakfast at the hostel before having a lovely town day in Chamonix. We went shopping for missing hiking gear, stocked up on toiletries that we might’ve been lacking and walked through a beautiful French city. Rushton had the brilliant idea of getting a soccer ball so we could play kickball in the park, which entertained us for the morning and got us moving and breaking in our hiking boots. We transitioned to playing hackysack, practicing handstands and playing other silly games and before we knew it, we were hungry for lunch. Previous groups recommended a local burger joint in downtown Chamonix and for good reason. Everyone raved at the size and taste of the burgers as we devoured them in in the fresh mountain air. We were having the best day ever and when Vivi suggested we get ice cream, vibes went through the roof and we kicked those cones all the way back to the hostel where we started preparing for the tour du Mont Blanc, or the TMB. Dinner was once again some traditional French hostel dinner and, still feeling the effects of jet lag, we passed out after the second Moonup.
Our first day of hiking started with a taxi ride to our second country, Italy! Although we did not get to have any pizza or pasta, we did see the most stunning view of the Gran Joursase Mountain which our trekking guide had summited just one month prior in the ice and snow, safe to say we are in experienced hands. We knew trekking would be tough, and day one gave a fun challenge to hike over the Col du Ferrat straight into Switzerland, our third country of the trip. But before heading over the border, we stopped to eat lunch, strapped on our crampons and traversed a snow drift to great Switzerland at our highest elevation of the day. So long Italy! Switzerland greeted us with a large snow bank which we got to sled down on our packs. That became a big highlight of the day, so much so that everyone, voluntarily, hiked back up to do it twice. With the hard part of the day over, we coasted down the mountain to our first hostel. The views from day one were unbelievable and we dined under the mountains to French Chicken and Rice. We were fortunate enough to have the whole hostel to ourselves and, led by JT, we had partook in some silly improv post Moonup.
Day two of hiking started with a late morning which we all enjoyed.We began by walking through the Swiss countryside, passed by cows with real cow bells on them and homes from the 1700s. Trail talk has really gotten this group through thinking and it has been such a great bonding experience. We stopped for lunch in the forest and played a game to break up the hiking a little bit. In this particular game, Shelby was better than the rest, just barely beating out Francie in what Moondance calls a moo off. After lunch, we trekked past some beautiful flower fields where a photo shoot commenced before we began our uphill trek. Although steep, these hills were no match for our group, only needing one break at a water spicket before finding a glacier lake in a small town. Alice wins for staying in the chilly lake the longest but it felt really good for all of us to jump in and relax our muscles. Coincidentally, there was a luxury vehicle show occurring at the same time and Charlie took some incredible photos of the cars. We restocked on food and headed to the hostel where we had cheese fondue for dinner and played several rounds of Hacky Sack and “don’t touch my rock” where Vivi used her lacrosse skills to beat us all. We ended the night with a round of salad bowl, fish bowl as some people call it, and went to bed smiling.
Day three of hiking started on the earlier side and we knew we would have one of the more challenging days today. Even though we ended the day with an uphill yesterday, we started this day with one as well. This time through a wooded pine tree forest where Durland led us in Categories along the path. The hiked peaked at a small mountain top restaurant where we got to stop, play hacky sack, enjoy some fresh pies and sandwiches and relax with one of the best views of the trip. Because our legs were tired, we took a longer break before the long descent to a tiny village. When we walked past another small Swiss shop selling ice cream and popsicles, we had to take another break. We couldn’t skip an opportunity like that. Arriving at our hostel, we played a game of World Cup where Rushton and Jack representing France narrowly beat out Caroline and Abby representing Portugal in the final round. Our hostel served us some delicious bolognese for dinner and we did improv once again after moonup. Our whole crew is always laughing and having fun at night and even though the trail can be tough, the views and friendships we are making are totally worth it.
Our last full day on the TMB started with a quick game of Calibria to warm up our tired and sore legs. We knew we had another long uphill but everyone was in good spirits because the end was in sight. Charlotte even led the group in a Moondance sponsored photoshoot. Hopefully we get on the Moondance Instagram with these awesome pictures! Once making it over the pass we were greeted by the most breathtaking view of a lifetime. There, in the wind, we enjoyed baguettes, peanut butter and chocolate for lunch. Some of the kids decided to treat themselves to a soda at another small shop in the pass. Everyone had a photoshoot opportunity overlooking the city of Chamonix and we entered back into France while watching paragliders play in the windy day. The long downhill along a ski resort brought us to a miniature home on the hillside next to another flower garden. We enjoyed moonup like knights at a large round stone table and bonded in the rooms after another authentic French dinner. Don’t worry, we’ve been showering nightly and staying clean in all these hostels because this trekking has been long fun, days in the sun.
Our last day on the TMB was a short downhill hike where we were able to drop our packs at the first hostel and head into town to chow down on some food. And the food we have been craving the most was definitely PIZZA! And of course, it was absolutely delicious but to continue the celebration, we had more ICE CREAM. The rest of the day we rested and played games outside. Nobody felt like hiking anymore but we definitely still had energy for laughs. We played salad bowl all together and listened to music, played hacky sack before a beef and lentils dinner and a cream puff desert. We have had a ton of fun so far and each night of moonup we get closer together.
So far, Meg and I couldn’t be more grateful for such a wonderful group of kids. It feels like everyone is loving and embracing the Moondance spirit and we are off on our next adventure. We are currently playing card games of every kind on the way to Spain. We are hoping you guys are having a wonderful time and home and we can’t wait to share all of our memories with you.
That’s all for now!
Meg and Adam
Shout outs!
Charlie: Hello Mom and Dad, I just got done with the Tour de Mount Blanc and are heading down to Spain. It started snowing the first day on the hike for a bit which was pretty cool. I’m having a great time and my new friends are really awesome to hang out with. I’m excited to see what’s next and explore new areas. Love y’all so much, can’t wait to see y’all in Paris for the day. P.S I have a new nick name-C bear 🐻
Rushton: Hi Mom and Dad, I am having a great time in France. We just finished the TMB. Thank you for sending me on this trip, Happy Birthday and Father’s Day Dad, love you all! Dad I hope my new tires look good. Love y’all lots.
Abby: HEYYY mom and dad!!!!! happy early birthday dad love youu! I miss yallll so much but am having so much fun. The hiking was super hard but the views were so awesome and it was sooo much fun. We just finished the first hiking part in Switzerland and France and now we’re going to the beach in Spain! I’m having so much fun and love everyone in my group so much, thank you sooo much and love y’all.
Vivi: Hi friends and fam!!! I am having so much fun here in Cham! We just finished the Tour du Mont blanc, and so far I have been to Switzerland, France, Italy, and now we are heading to Spain for the beach! This has genuinely been the best experience ever. I have met some amazing people and have done some of the coolest things. When I get home I can wait to show and tell yall about everything I have done. My camera is FILLED with amazing pics and vids. Hug lulu and Leroy for me please I miss them. Auds, I miss u so much too! See y’all soon but this trip is awesomeeee! I will def be sad to leave!
Durland: Hi Mom, Dad, Carter, and Davis!! I am having the best time here! The Tour du Mont Blanc was SO cool. It snowed the first day of trekking and we got to sled down the mountain which was awesome. We are on the way to Spain right now to start sea kayaking. My group is the best and I have met so many amazing people! I miss y’all so so much and hope everything is going well at home! Thank you so much again for sending me on this trip I can’t wait to tell y’all all about it! I love you all lots!!
JT: BONJOUR Mom and Dad I’m having so much fun! We just finished our first hiking trip just one more to go. It was very challenging but very rewarding in the end. I miss y’all lots and can’t wait to see y’all! 😀👋🫶
Caroline: Hi I miss y’all so much but am having so much fun. We just finished hiking the tallest mountain in Europe. It was hard but very pretty. It snowed our first day of trekking and we hiked through Switzerland, France, and Italy in one day. We are now getting on a train to Spain to go to the beach then hike the Pyrenees. I love my group and my leaders and cannot wait to tell y’all all about my trip. I love y’all so much. Thank you for letting me go.
Shelby: Bonjour mom, dad, and Lucas! We’re currently on the way to Spain to go to the beach (yay!) and sea kayaking. We just finished half of the Tour du Mont Blanc which was definitely a challenge but had such rewarding views. I honestly keep forgetting I’m in Europe when we’re in the mountains until someone starts speaking French to me and all I know is “oui.” My leaders have been updating me about the Canes so my fingers are crossed. I miss y’all so much and can’t wait to see you in a few weeks. Thanks for everything💕
Jack: Hey everyone I’m having so much fun with all my new friends just finished our trek on tour de Mont blanc and are going to Spain. Love y’all so much! Thank y’all so much for sending me here it’s so much fun and Im grateful. Happy Father’s Day Dad!
Charlotte: Hi I miss y’all sooo much!! We just got done on our 5 day hike of the tour de Mont blanc and it was such an amazing experience! We are headed to Costa Brava, Spain and then to the Pyrenees after that. This trip has made me so grateful and I can’t wait to show you all of our pictures when I get back. Thank you so much for sending me on this trip! Love you guys sooooo much ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Alice: Hi mom and dad!! I am having so much fun! We finished hiking Mont Blanc and it was so pretty and rewarding! The group is great and we’re getting so much closer! Hope Eloise is having fun at camp and y’all are doing well. Love you guys and am so grateful to be on this trip! See you in a couple weeks!
Francie: Hi Mom, Dad, Sam, and Elliott! I am having an amazing time in France! We have been doing so much hiking, but it is so rewarding, and I have been loving bonding with the whole group! Can’t believe we are almost halfway! I will see you guys soon, and happy Father’s Day to Dadu! 🩵
Safe Arrival!
June 3, 2026
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 their trekking section!
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
