By Emily Sturtevant and Hannah Gensheimer
Ahhh! We truly can’t believe it’s August 10th, and almost every single trip is saying their goodbyes today to their “Apo-family” and heading home. We are filled with a mix of bittersweet emotions as our summer quickly comes to an end, and as our groups give their final hugs (all in their snazzy new Apogee shirts).
Cape Cod and the Islands (CI3):
It was a day of goodbyes from bikes, Boston, and beaches. Kevin, Alyssa and their crew had a fantastic final meal out in Boston last night, and they were all sad to leave their new friends. Thanks, all, for a great two weeks!
New England Mountain’s and Coast (NEMC3):
Our NEMCers are the only group on our blog today not heading home! Yay! Today they spent the day sea kayaking along the coast of Maine. It was 75 degrees and not a cloud in the sky – according to Isa and Pom, it was the perfect day on the water. This afternoon the crew went into Portland to explore the Old Port as a group and enjoy a final meal out on the town.
Vermont to Montreal (VM3):
It was a bittersweet goodbye from Anna and Freddy’s group as they shuttled back from Montreal early this morning. After their two week adventure, these guys aren’t just great bikers, but great friends as well. While it’s hard to leave, we’re sure everyone is looking forward to the comfort of their own bed and a home cooked meal!
California Mountain’s and Coast (CMC3):
After many days in the California wilderness, our CMC3ers are saying fare-thee well. Yesterday, Matt and Midge’s group spent their last final day in full California style – getting in both some surfing as well as time in San Francisco.
Caribbean Service Adventure (CSA3):
Adios, Puerto Rico! Today our group left the Isla Encantada (the Enchanted Island) to return to the mainland. Thomas and Emily were sad to see the group go, but over a brief two weeks, the group was proud of all they were able to accomplish
Maine’s Downeast Explorer (DEX3):
After exploring the best Maine has to offer, including kayaking in Isle au Haut Bay, hiking in Acadia National Park, and summiting Mount Katahdin. The group has turned in their sleeping bags for beds as they head home for lots of laundry and long, hot showers.
Montana Service Adventure (MSA2):
Annika and Christian’s group has bid farewell to “Big Sky Country” as they hopped on their planes home. After two weeks of cycling and service, everyone has formed strong bonds and deep friendships through tackling challenges of their dynamic western adventure. We hope everyone had a great trip!
Northwest Explorer (NWX2):
Last night the group explored around Seattle and cherished their last evening together. Today the group boarded their planes for home, leaving the trip having achieved new heights, experienced spectacular views, and made great friends.
Pacific Coast A (PC2A):
West and Abby are feeling a little blue now that all of their students are on their way home. Having biked three weeks and over 600 miles together, this group left San Francisco with amazing memories and wonderful new friends. This group should be so proud of their huge accomplishment.
Two sad leaders missing their kids!
Pacific Coast B (PC2B):
The group celebrated their amazing trip together last night in San Francisco. This group biked the coastlines of Oregon and California, surfed in Crescent City, volunteered at a local food bank and finally made it to their final destination – all in three weeks! Though their farewells are bittersweet, we’re sure everyone is happy to be home.
Alps Explorer A (AX2A):
Au revoir, arrivederci, and auf wiedersehen! After traveling through France, Italy and Switzerland, these well traveled hikers will be saying goodbye to one another. We hope everyone had an amazing trip and that they are transitioning to the American life again.
Alps Explorer B (AX2B):
After hiking through three different countries and finishing the Tour de Mont Blanc these explorers are on their way back the U.S.A. Last night they celebrated their incredible accomplishment of hiking over 100 miles with a delicious dinner in Geneva. We hope the truly incredible photographs they are taking home with them will help them remember their great trip!