Yellowstone Trip 2011

Wednesday Night

2011-02-23T18:20:00.000-08:00

We went to Blacktail Plateau today. I would say the kids have mastered the skill of snowshoeing. Up and down mostly fresh snow is difficult, but every child accomplished it. At one point it felt like we were hiking toward Heaven because we were going up hills surrounded by the snowy mountains.

Right now they are looking at a wolverine trap. They are about to start the evening class. I wonder who will be chosen as the beaver?

Wednesday Morning

2011-02-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

Class this morning was great. They worked on animal adaptations. They created predators and prey.. Leaving for our hikehike in 30 min. Bundling up for a high of 20° today.

Tuesday

2011-02-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

Water testing in Mammoth area. Ph, temperature, and identify type of bacteria. Hiked 2.5 miles today. Many accomplished the wilderness wiggle.

Wrote acrostic poems. Came very close to some elk too.

Monday

2011-02-22T18:59:00.000-08:00

We took an orientation hike. Brutally cold, but the kids liked the snowshoes. Went in a time machine to learn about geology.

Good Morning!

2011-02-21T03:47:00.000-08:00

We are wrapping things up here at our lovely hotel stay. I have to say I am very impressed with our accomodations. Last time we took the Expedition: Yellowstone, we did not stay at a hotel before going into Yellowstone. It worked out wonderfully so that we could get our supply shopping done, and relax before "roughing it" at the YCC dorm. :)

The kids have a great day planned. After our three hour drive into Mammoth Hot Springs, we will be doing a scavenger hunt at the Albright Museum in Mammoth. Then we head to the YCC to get settled, and we hit the trails for the first time in snow shoes!

We got about 4-5 inches of snow here in Billings since yesterday. I heard Mammoth got 10 inches of fresh snow recently.

I'm unsure about future postings from this point on. Our cell phone use is limited in the park, and I probably won't have access to Internet once we are there. Wish I brought my laptop because our bus has WiFi!!! Oh well, if that's the only thing I left at home that I wish I had now, then we're golden for the week!

God bless and thanks for checking the blog!
--Mrs. B

This afternoon

2011-02-20T18:42:00.001-08:00

We were able to get our feet wet in the hotel pool. The kids were having a blast splashing around. Dinner came from Texas Roadhouse, and the kids gobbled it up. Exausted, they gathered for a little Expedition Yellowstone story time and then off to an early lights-out.

After the first flight to Denver

2011-02-20T18:40:00.000-08:00

The stewardess stopped me and complimented the students, She said they were all very polite, and that she had taught for 30 years. She said kids like these are rare nowadays. Awesome kids!

At 5:00 a.m. at Detroit Metro Airport

2011-02-20T18:37:00.000-08:00

In the security line, a man notices our group's "Expedition: Yellowstone!" sweatshirts. He asked us where we were from and asked how the trip waws funded. Some of the students explain all the fundraising events (bottle-drives, yard clean-up, babysitting, etc.). Then he said, "How about another donation, hot chocolate foreveryone when you get to Yellowstone!" and he handed me a $20. What a nice guy!

The Countdown

2011-02-19T20:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks for joining us on another Expedition: Yellowstone! I am so proud to take these hardworking, knowledge-thirsting students on this trip. We leave in just a few hours. We will do our best to keep you posted on our activities.

The weather forecast is gorgeous. This is for Gardiner, MT which is just outside our entrance into the park:
Monday High 32 Low 20
Tuesday High 32 Low 20
Wednesday High 23 Low 11
Thursday High 16 Low 5
Friday High 15 Low 2

Please pray for our safe arrival and the safe arrival of our LUGGAGE!

God Bless,
Mrs. Boura

Frontier Airlines Checked Baggage Info

2011-01-20T23:26:00.000-08:00

From Frontier Airlines website: http://www.frontierairlines.com/frontier/plan-book/travel-info-services/baggage/checked-baggage.do

checked baggage
Let us handle your stuff. Here are the rules regarding checked baggage. If you are just carrying your bag with you, be sure to read and understand the rules for carry-on baggage. These rules apply only to flights operated by Frontier Airlines. Baggage fees may vary when traveling on codeshare flights operated by another carrier. Please refer to the operating carrier's website or reservations department for more information.

Frontier offers a unique way to purchase tickets called "AirFairs" that gives you the ability to purchase travel that includes the amenities you need or want. The table below shows the three AirFair ticket types available and the baggage allowance for each. To determine which fare type is best for your trip, check out our AirFairs tutorial that will ask you a few simple questions to point you in the right direction.

Economy Classic Classic Plus Summit, Ascent
1st $20 Free Free Free
2nd $20 Free Free Free
3rd and more (each) $50 $50 $50 $50

Active duty military personnel with ID (not including family members or traveling companions) will not be assessed bag fees, and media personnel may check bags and equipment for $25 each.

International
1st Item Free
2nd Item $20
3rd Item $50
4th Item $50
5th item and more (each) $100

For your security, please keep in mind the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens all checked baggage. Unlocked bags can be examined quickly. Locked bags will be opened if necessary, and then resealed. You can find further information on the TSA website.
That being said, we highly recommend that you do NOT pack the following items in your checked bags:

•Cash
•Jewelry
•Electronics
•Laptop computers
•Fragile items
•Medications
•Car keys
•Important documents

codeshare
On codeshare flights, baggage allowances will be determined by the policy of the carrier on which the passenger's flight originates. On codeshare flights operated by Great Lakes Airlines, Frontier's baggage fees will apply.

size and weight issues
We know it's a weighty issue, but please remember items which exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + depth) or weigh more than 50 pounds will incur a fee. There is a $75 fee for bags exceeding these weight limitations and a $75 fee for exceeding the size limitation. These fees are charged separately and one item can incur multiple fees. You can read more about baggage in the Contract of Carriage (PDF).

We take the safety of our passengers and employees very seriously. Frankly folks, our employees have to lift and carry these bags to get them to your flight and we'd really like to keep those checked bags under 50 pounds each. And, as much as we'd like to help, we don't accept baggage that weighs more than 100 pounds or exceeds 110 linear inches (length + width + depth). If you need to transport items this large, please check with your favorite package delivery company. Thanks for your understanding of our policy.

be a sport with your sports equipment
As we mentioned in the checked baggage section, you may be entitled to a free baggage allowance. Keep in mind, to avoid incurring additional charges, each item can't exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + depth) and can't exceed a weight of 50 pounds. Many special items have a specific charge or require special packing.

Please see our baggage chart for more information.

early check-in rules
We understand that you might want to leave your bags with us and have more time to hang out before your flight, but you may only drop off your baggage up to four hours prior to flight departure. However, ticket counters may not open until two to three hours prior to scheduled departure in some of our smaller cities. Check Airport & Terminal info for ticket counter hours.

Please note that baggage check-in cutoff is 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights (flights within the United States) at most of our airports and 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure for international flights. Some airports have a 45 minute check-in cutoff. Please go to Airport & Terminal info for these exceptions.

Frontier Airlines Carry-on Info

2011-01-20T23:23:00.000-08:00

From the Frontier Airlines website: http://www.frontierairlines.com/frontier/plan-book/travel-info-services/baggage/carry-on-baggage.do

You can take it with you... if you follow these guidelines...

Don't get carried away with your carry-on baggage. You'll be sharing the plane with others, so please understand that we allow each passenger one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a briefcase, purse or laptop computer. All baggage is subject to inspection by airport security and our personnel. Each passenger must have his or her name and contact information on each carry-on item.

We're bound by some legal rules, as stated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), "Prohibited items are weapons, explosives, incendiaries, and include items that are seemingly harmless but may be used as weapons - the so-called 'dual use' items. You may not bring these items to security checkpoints without authorization." Click here to review a list of permitted and prohibited items which may be included in carry-on baggage, provided by the TSA.

Now get out your measuring tape and scale. We allow each passenger to board with one piece of carry-on baggage. Your carry-on bag's dimensions can't exceed 49 linear inches with maximum dimensions of 9.5" height + 15.5" width + 24" length and the bag can't weigh more than 35 pounds. Your carry-on bag must fit underneath the seat or in an enclosed overhead bin.

We try to be as flexible and accommodating as possible, but keep in mind these policies help us make sure there's enough room for everyone and their items on the plane. Our main concern is the comfort and safety of our passengers. We thank you for your understanding.

In addition to the one carry-on bag allowance, the following personal articles may be carried on the aircraft:

•Handbag or pocketbook
•Coat or wrap
•Umbrella or walking stick
•Camera or binoculars
•Briefcase or laptop computer case
•Canes, crutches, braces or other assistive devices on which the passenger is dependent*
•Infant bag
•Infant/child safety seat used to transport the infant/child (if the child has a ticket and will be using the seat in flight, it must be an FAA approved safety seat)**
•A reasonable amount of reading material

TSA Regulations for Carry-On Baggage

2011-01-20T23:19:00.000-08:00

From this website: http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm

Make Your Trip Better Using 3-1-1
TSA and our security partners conducted extensive explosives testing since August 10, 2006 and determined that liquids, aerosols and gels, in limited quantities, are safe to bring aboard an aircraft. The one bag limit per traveler limits the total amount each traveler can bring. Consolidating the bottles into one bag and X-raying them separately from the carry-on bag enables security officers to quickly clear the items.

3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 ounce (100ml) container size is a security measure.

Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.

3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.

Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. Officers may need to open these items to conduct additional screening.

Re-posting of Supplies

2011-01-18T21:26:00.000-08:00

Preliminary List of Supplies for Yellowstone
2010-2011
Optional Items
 Camera
 Binoculars
Sleeping Gear:
• Duffel bag, suit case or large backpack
• Sleeping bag adequate for winter cold
• Wool blanket (especially if sleeping bag is not very warm)
• Twin fitted or flat sheet
• Pillow & pillow case

Toiletries & personal items:
Note: Anything with a scent, such as toothpaste and shampoo, must be kept in a small zip-lock bag and stored in bathrooms to prevent attracting mice and bears!
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Face soap
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Chapstick (a must in winter!)
• Sunscreen (above SPF 15, high altitude = more intense sunrays)
• Deodorant
• Facial tissue
• Washcloth, bath towel and/or hand towel
• Comb or hairbrush
• Hairdryer
• Flashlight (check the batteries, then flip the batteries during traveling)
• Medication—to be turned in to Mrs. Boura prior to the trip, with your name on it)

For the trail:
• Backpack (can’t be the type that you carry only on one shoulder, like an athletic bag), no wheels
• 2 water bottles-1 quart each
• hat or baseball cap
• sunglasses (Even in the winter! Snow reflects a lot of light.)

Foul weather gear:
• mittens or gloves
• wool cap or hat that covers ears
• warm winter coat (layers work best)
• windbreaker
• rain gear—several ponchos or a high quality rain suit
• rain pants

Footwear:
• hiking boots/shoes, waterproofed and broken in
• clean shoes for wearing in the dorm/mess hall (this is the “dry pair for indoor use at Yellowstone)
• warm slippers

Clothing:
Winter clothing list
• Dress warmly and on layers. The layered use of synthetics and wool with additional protection from the wind is the goal of your clothing choices. Loose fitting layers allow you to maintain a comfortable and dry body by having flexibility in insulation as outside temperatures change and as your own body temperature and moisture output changes with varying levels of exertion.
• It is strongly recommended that you not wear cotton clothing outdoors in the winter, especially next to your skin.
• The use of hair dryers is recommended on winter expeditions as the weather can be very cold and a lot of body heat is lost through the head.
• The use of hand and feet warmers is a great comfort on the trail to cold fingers and toes. These inexpensive chemical packets can be purchased at most outdoor stores.
Ideal clothing list from the skin out
• Synthetic underwear. A light or medium weight is adequate. Synthetic is best, but wool is fine. Wool shirt or polypro shirt/sweater (a light weight, synthetic fleece garment is recommended.)
• Wool/fleece sweater. This is where a slightly heavier layer can be very helpful for less active times. A mid-weight fleece garment is good.
• Down Vest or sweater. Down has the advantage of being very light and compact for its warmth, but becomes useless when wet. It is useful here for a warm, compact layer for less active times.
• Wind shell with a hood. A layer that breaks the wind yet breathes is important. A breathable nylon shell is good. Gore-Tex are excellent.
• Wool, polypro, or fleece gloves. Hands usually stay warm while exercising and a light covering adequate. Warmer mittens are for rest times and very cold weather. Mittens are warmer than gloves.
• Shell over-mitt. To protect mittens from wind, moisture, and wear and tear.
• Hat that can cover your ears. Rag wool synthetic cap, or balaclava- type hats are good.
• Synthetic neck warmer or neck gaiter. These can be very helpful in keeping valuable heat in.
• Socks. A Light polypro liner with a heavier, wool sock over adequate. There are excellent winter socks on the market. Stay away from cotton. Extra socks are always useful.
• Synthetic fleece/pile pants or wool plants. Mid-weight fleece pants are ideal. Wool army surplus pants are good as well as the kind of ski pants used for protection from the wind.
• Pant shell that allows you to be in the snow and still stay dry.
• Gaiters. Knee-high to keep the snow out of your boots and to keep your socks and pants dry.
• Footwear. They should be warm and large enough to fit over thick socks. Tight boots are the surest way to get painfully cold feet. Pack boots or snow boots are ideal. 1-2 extra pairs of shoes or slippers for use in the dorm or mess hall. One pair of indoor shoes must be closed toe for cooking and cleaning chores.

Agenda/Notes for 12/15/10 Meeting

2010-12-16T04:45:00.001-08:00

Agenda for Yellowstone Meeting 12/14/10

A. Bowling Fundraiser- 1/9/11
a. Headed by Theresa Henderson Jackson
b. Cost and Ticket Requirement (minimum 6)
c. Sign up for basket item—Return basket item by 1/5/11
B. Hotel
C. Other Fundraisers
a. Bottle Returns and Bagels continue
b. Premier Designs Jewelry—orders accepted until 12/17, no guarantee by Christmas
D. Supplies—posted on www.ollsyellowstone.blogspot.com
E. Frontier Airlines
a. Carry On: All personal items and clothes
i. One Backpack allowed
ii. carry on—Limitations: 49 linear inches with maximum dimensions of 9.5" height + 15.5" width + 24" length and <35 pounds and must fit underneath the seat or in an enclosed overhead bin.
b. Checked Baggage: Sleeping Bags, Pillows, snowpants and anything else not needed until we get to Yellowstone.
i. Needed—large duffels and suitcases
ii. > 62 linear inches (length + width + depth) or > 50 pounds will incur a fee. There is a $75 fee for bags exceeding these weight limitations.
c. Verify Personal Info for TSA

Fundraisers

2010-11-05T14:14:00.001-07:00

Dear Students and Parents,

There are several Academy fundraisers occurring this weekend and next. We are in need of students AND parents to help out.

First, there are yard clean ups this weekend. Please bring a rake. Dress in layers too, since it will be cooler out. The information for this weekend is:

Saturday, November 6 at 10:00—Meet at the school, or call Mrs. Barb Youmans for a ride (248)508-7456. The address is 16906 Georgina in Beverly Hills (on the corner of Georgina and Pierce, North of 13 Mile between Greenfield and Southfield.) You should probably pack a bag lunch.

Sunday, November 7 at 1:00—There are two occurring simultaneously. First, the address is 2425 Wiltshire in Berkley. The second house is 4024 Buckingham in Berkley.

The following weekend, November 13 and 14, there is a bottle/can drive. We need help collecting after the Masses as well as taking them to the store. Please call Mrs. Barb Youmans to set up a time schedule, or e-mail me.

Also, we have some potential yard clean ups on Friday, November 12 and possibly over that weekend. Please consider helping. I will finalize more details next week.

Thank you for your continued support of the Academy. Again, we are in need of parents to help out as well.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Boura

Letter Sent

2010-10-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

October 18, 2010

Dear Expedition: Yellowstone! Students and Parents/Guardians,

Please note the following change to our trip: We will be leaving Detroit on Sunday, February 20, 2011 and returning on February 25, 2011.

I have been working very hard trying to find the best rates/fares possible. I have made the change because I was able to save us $5,000 as a group by flying out a day earlier and into Billings, MT. Even with a hotel stay on Sunday night and the added bus costs (Billings is about one hour further than Bozeman to our destination), we are still saving $5,000.

We will be purchasing our airline tickets by next week. You must make a deposit of $250 by Monday, October 25, 2010 (make checks payable to Our Lady of La Salette). Please see the blogsite (www.ollsyellowstone.blogspot.com) for the airline itinerary and please see the following payment schedule:
Due date: Amount Due:
10/25/10 $250
11/22/10 $200
12/20/10 $200
1/17/11 $200
Total cost of trip: $850

I will also need to submit a list of passenger names to Frontier Airlines. Please fill out the bottom of this form and return it with your deposit on October 25.

Thank you and I look forward to a successful trip!

God bless,

Mrs. Sheri Boura
sheri.a.boura@lasalette-school.org
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full legal name of passenger*: _____________________________________

Date of birth: ___________________________
Full legal names means the entire name located on the government-issued photo ID that will be used at the security checkpoint. Travelers under the age of 18 are not required to provide a photo ID. Names must be submitted in this format:
SMITH/JOHN MICHAEL

Payment Schedule

2010-10-18T10:01:00.001-07:00

Due date: Amount Due:
10/25/10 $250
11/22/10 $200
12/20/10 $200
1/17/11 $200
Total cost of trip: $850

Make checks payable to Our Lady of La Salette.

Flight Itinerary

2010-10-18T10:00:00.001-07:00

ITINERARY

Carr/Flt# _____Departure_____ _Arrival_

F9 / 71 DTW 20FEB2011 625A DEN 734A

F9 /1129 DEN 20FEB2011 815A BIL 945A

F9 /1796 BIL 25FEB2011 345P DEN 515P

F9 / 834 DEN 25FEB2011 710P DTW 1152P

FARE QUOTE:

Base Fare: 245.58 USD

Taxes: 18.42 USD

XTs: 41.30 USD

Total Fare: 305.30 USD

Bottle Drive This Weekend!

2010-10-06T13:55:00.001-07:00

This weekend, on October 9th and 10th, after Mass there will be a
bottle/can drive to benefit the Academy field trips. We are looking
for students to help collect the bottles after Mass, and for students
and parents to help return the bottles to the store. Bottle drives
have been very successful in the past, but it takes a lot of hands to
make it light work. Please help out. Call Mrs. Barb Youmans (248-508-7456) to arrange
times for helping out or notify Mrs. Boura. Thank you!

Possible Flight Intinerary

2010-10-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

This is information from the travel agent at Skybird travel.

Delta

Base fare: $457.00

Current taxes including surcharges: $75.00

1 DL2305 21FEB M DTWMSP*SS1 730A 826A

2 DL5640 21FEB M MSPBZN*SS1 900A 1030A

3 DL1584 25FEB F BZNMSP*SS1 240P 607P

4 DL2168 25FEB F MSPDTW*SS1 715P 1003P

United Airlines

Base fare: $516.00

Current taxes including surcharges: $80.00

1 UA7452 21FEB M DTWDEN*SS1 815A 941A

2 UA6765 21FEB M DENBZN*SS1 1115A 1256P

3 UA6765 25FEB F BZNDEN*SS1 123P 300P

4 UA7410 25FEB F DENDTW*SS1 530P 1014P

Yellowstone Summer Activities

2010-07-20T17:09:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! Hope your summer is going well. Our first summer fundraiser was quite successful. The car wash and the bottle drive worked out well thanks to Mrs. Youmans and Mrs. Sheibels and the students who attended. Our next car wash/bottle drive/battery collection is on August 14 and 15. Please, please, please...we need your help! The more hands the better! Please notify Mrs. Boura or Mrs. Youmans if you can sign up. On August 14th, the car wash will be at school from 12:00 to 6:00 and on August 15th at school from 10:00 to 1:00. Please come for a couple hours or stay longer if you can!

Please also think ahead for the fall yard clean up fundraiser. Ask your friends and neighbors if they are interested in having their yard cleaned by our wonderful students!

And lastly, do you want to know more about Expedition: Yellowstone!? Here is a website with more information (you'll need to copy and paste the address in your browser): http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/expeditionyell.htm

Feel free to drop me an e-mail: sheri.a.boura@lasalette-school.org

God Bless,
Mrs. Boura

Agenda and Quick Notes for Meeting on June 2

2010-06-02T19:35:00.000-07:00

Agenda for Yellowstone Meeting
June 2, 2010

I. Expedition: Yellowstone!
a. Dates: February 21-25, 2011=Winter Break Week
b. Student Capacity and Adult to Child ratio=40 person capacity, 2:5 or 1:5 ratio
c. Curriculum=coincides with Michigan Standards
II. Costs (last year, approx. $850 per person plus reimbursed $100 after fundraising.
a. Supplies (see list)
b. Travel costs
i. Plane (looked online today at about $499 a ticket)
ii. Charter bus (depending on number of people attending, larger bus is more costly)
iii. Checked baggage vs. shipping boxes (we will probably check baggage this time)
c. Dorm Fee ($35-40)
i. Yellowstone Park Foundation Scholarship
d. Food (Purchased from Costco in Bozeman, possibly use Sam's Club or Costco again)
III. Fundraisers (please sign up to chair or co-chair an event--see Mrs. Boura w/ questions).
a. Lollipop Sales (now available, please see Mrs. Barb Youmans)
b. Eco-friendly Theme
i. Yard clean-up1
ii. Water bottles
iii. Battery Collections1
iv. Bottle Drive1
v. Smencils
c. Car Wash1
d. Bowling Night for Adults
e. Christmas Shopping Babysitting1
f. Bagel Sales2
g. Gold Party1
h. Discount Cards or Scrip Cards
i. Booth/Table during Dream Cruise
j. Caribou Coffee1
k. Zap Zone Alumni Night2
l. Grants
IV. Before you leave
a. Interest sheet
b. Fundraiser chairperson

1 Does not require up-front funds
2 In cooperation with 8th grade Washington D.C. Trip

Please turn in the interest sheet by Monday, June 7. If you have questions, please e-mail me or write your phone number on the interest sheet and someone will return your call. Thank you!

Also, please consider chairing or co-chairing a fundraiser. Thank you!

Preliminary List of Supplies

2010-06-02T19:34:00.001-07:00

Yeah, they're still learning....

2009-03-08T21:16:00.003-07:00

You have a Picture Mail from gregorykacy@pm.sprint.com

Message:

ranger Michael is helping compare/contrast mouth properties of carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores. we are still in great spirits. damn, these kids are smart!

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veronica bloggin', baby!!!

2009-03-08T21:16:00.001-07:00

You have a Picture Mail from gregorykacy@pm.sprint.com

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she can't wait to tell you all about the trip...

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lunch break

2009-03-08T21:15:00.001-07:00

You have a Picture Mail from gregorykacy@pm.sprint.com

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We've lost Barb and Veronica.

2009-03-06T08:00:00.001-08:00

I don't think they want a search party sent out.

What an incredible trip!

2009-03-06T07:48:00.001-08:00

I think we were all hoping for a big storm so we could stay.

Scat-strewn scavenger hunt!

2009-03-05T18:29:00.001-08:00

Try to find signs of human activity within a carpet of cr_p. Found a wolf tracking collar with radio!

Could this be the next Yellowstone ranger?

2009-03-05T18:25:00.001-08:00

6th Graders Descriptions of Today's Hike

2009-03-05T16:39:00.001-08:00

"awesome", "great experience", "very cold and windy", "breathtaking" and "exciting".

Good classroom work pays off

2009-03-05T08:17:00.001-08:00

Apparently, all of the classroom preparation and activities have paid dividends. They are able to contribute to Ranger's discussions.

A growing experience

2009-03-05T08:14:00.001-08:00

The kids are being creative and are very focused on conservation. It seems like they are building new attitudes. It is very cool to witness.

Expeditioners are getting tired

2009-03-05T08:12:00.001-08:00

All Expedtitioners are getting a bit tired. Aanother good day hike ahead of us including two short stories based upon human history of Yellowstone.

Cold and snowy today

2009-03-05T08:08:00.001-08:00

Lots of leftover food, but not enough time to use it. Early start tomorrow (5:30AM!).

Working on journals before heading out

2009-03-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

The students are hard at work on their journals before going out in the field.

Getting ready for tonight's skit

2009-03-05T06:52:00.000-08:00

Oh, its cold and very windy today!

Breakfast with the ranger.

2009-03-05T06:24:00.001-08:00

Good morning from Yellowstone

2009-03-05T05:15:00.001-08:00

Another day out in the field, everyone is excited. Just want to say THANKS to Mrs. Boura (our 6th grade teacher) for everything.

Howard is the cutest beaver we've seen in Yellowstone.

2009-03-04T19:20:00.000-08:00

What cold weather?

2009-03-04T19:05:00.001-08:00

No one is complaining about the c-c-c-cold weather that we worked in this afternoon. If we were at home, it would have been dreadful.

Greg is bummed wtih Sprint

2009-03-04T19:02:00.001-08:00

Greg's bummed that Sprint cellular service is so poor at the dorm. Can someone please update my Facebook status for me, please...?

Exemplary Students from La Salette

2009-03-04T19:00:00.001-08:00

Our kids have been *repeatedly* complimented on their knowledge, behavior, and great attitude. Are parents are impressed??

Incredible day!

2009-03-04T18:30:00.001-08:00

Some took a bus excursion *deep* into the park to see amazing wildlife sightings and surprising hidden destinations.

Lunch on the trail

2009-03-04T16:57:00.001-08:00

Oh, where are the men? Perhaps autographing snowbanks...

Moutain roads

2009-03-04T09:37:00.001-08:00

Driving on the mountain roads is treacherous. We're going 25 miles into the park: Black Tail Deer Plateau, varied terrain--no paths.

Snowshoeing in the Backwoods

2009-03-04T09:34:00.001-08:00

Today's hike is backwoods showshoeing. Yesterday was a training expedition compared to today. Drew did yoga with the kids last night.

Wolf!

2009-03-04T09:25:00.001-08:00

We saw a wolf this morning. We were in the mess hall at the time, so the ecstatic "city slickers" didn't scare it away.

Presentation Time.

2009-03-04T08:35:00.001-08:00

The pronghorns presenting their Yellowstone animal, imaginary of course!

We love Ranger Michael because

2009-03-03T18:06:00.001-08:00

We love Ranger Michael because of his story telling skills and demeanor with the kids.

Ranger Mel demonstrating a geyser.

2009-03-03T18:02:00.001-08:00

Sampling at New Trail Spring.

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The kids had to sample without touching the hot springs.

Sampling at Orange Spring Tuesday afternoon.

2009-03-03T17:44:00.000-08:00

For those of you who...

2009-03-03T17:06:00.001-08:00

...were on the fence about doing this trip... Do what you can to get here as soon as possible!!! BYO family and camera!

Yellowstone Legends in the making

2009-03-03T17:03:00.001-08:00

Kids are making up Yellowstone Legends story/skits to perform for mass entertainment on Thursday night. Creative juices are flowing...

Ask your daughters about...

2009-03-03T17:01:00.001-08:00

"the wilderness wiggle" No soundtrack required!

Weather changes RAPIDLY!

2009-03-03T16:58:00.001-08:00

It went from sunny/warm to winter mountain squall in minutes. W watched the weather approach us from nearby peaks.

Joe says...

2009-03-03T16:54:00.001-08:00

"Snowshoeing is hard."

Howard says

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"Hello, Michiganders!!!"

Chaperones "working hard"

2009-03-03T10:33:00.001-08:00

The kids are taking pH, temperature, and bacteria tests at Canary Springs. What are the chaperones supposed to be doing...?

Trail Spring

2009-03-03T10:13:00.001-08:00

Learning on the trail

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Snowshoeing

2009-03-03T10:10:00.001-08:00

View from the Dorm

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8:30 am Tues

Class begins right away!

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The kids with Ranger Mel hard at work - even on a long travel day.

The Roosevelt Arch

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The Roosevelt Arch at the North entrance of Yellowstone.

Almost to Yellowstone

2009-03-02T14:27:00.001-08:00

Wow we made it through

2009-03-02T12:49:00.001-08:00

Wow we made it through Costco we are now getting a tour of Bozeman by the best bus driver, Tom.

We made it to Denver!

2009-03-02T08:07:00.001-08:00

Waiting for our flight to Bozeman.

Denver!

2009-03-02T08:01:00.000-08:00

We made it to Denver waiting to get to Bozeman.

Online Field Trips

2009-03-01T21:52:00.001-08:00

If you would like to take an online field trip to Yellowstone, please visit www.windowsintowonderland.org.

Almost there!

2009-03-01T16:06:00.000-08:00

In just a few hours we will happily be on our way to Yellowstone! So many people have worked so hard to get us this far. I am awed by the volunteerism and generosity of everyone involved. A gigantic thank you to the Wonsil family, for spearheading the entire trip. Mr. and Mrs. Wonsil have given so much of their time, talent, and money into making sure the sixth graders can experience this trip. Thanks to all the parents who helped with Caribou, babysitting, bottle drives, bagel day, selling candy, making flyers, typing out receipts...this trip wouldn't be happening without everyone. And students, you have worked hard too...selling candy, bagels, origami, wiping tables, taking care of little children, collecting bottles, and so much more. I hope this is an experience that you will never forget, and that you take home a part of Yellowstone in your heart. God Bless.

Thanks to Adam Hinton!

2009-03-01T15:06:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Adam Hinton for sharing his knowledge of Leave No Trace. The kids learned A LOT.

Big Thank You

2009-02-21T17:03:00.000-08:00

Thank you to EVERYONE who has supported us in getting to Yellowstone!

We are SO thankful to Moosejaw for helping us to "LOVE THE MADNESS" by supplying us with boots.
Thank you to Steve Wonsil, Janet Funkhouser, Lisa Bell, Genevieve Wojtczak, Chris Riha, Cougar Sales and Rental for donating money.
Thanks so much to Caribou Coffee at Woodward and Normandy for hosting many fundraisers on Sunday afternoons.
Thank you New York Bagel in Ferndale for working with us.
Thank you 4M Enterprises for covering our shipping costs.
Thank you for everyone who supported our "Bagel Wednesdays."
Thank you to Universal Flow Meters for allowing us to use your facilities for shipping and packaging.
Thank you to everyone who brought bottles to our can drive.

Welcome to the blog!

2009-01-12T17:53:00.000-08:00

Welcome parents and students of OLLS to our blog! Please use this blog as a communication tool for updates, locating or lending supplies, or just exclaiming how excited your are about going to Yellowstone!

Reminder: Caribou Coffee on Sunday, January 18th after Open House!

Have fun, be safe, and think green!

-Mrs. Boura

Yellowstone Trip 2011

Wednesday Night

Wednesday Morning

Tuesday

Monday

Good Morning!

This afternoon

After the first flight to Denver

At 5:00 a.m. at Detroit Metro Airport

The Countdown

Frontier Airlines Checked Baggage Info

Frontier Airlines Carry-on Info

TSA Regulations for Carry-On Baggage

Re-posting of Supplies

Agenda/Notes for 12/15/10 Meeting

Fundraisers

Letter Sent

Payment Schedule

Flight Itinerary

Bottle Drive This Weekend!

Possible Flight Intinerary

Yellowstone Summer Activities

Agenda and Quick Notes for Meeting on June 2

Preliminary List of Supplies

Yeah, they're still learning....

veronica bloggin', baby!!!

lunch break

We've lost Barb and Veronica.

What an incredible trip!

Scat-strewn scavenger hunt!

Could this be the next Yellowstone ranger?

6th Graders Descriptions of Today's Hike

Good classroom work pays off

A growing experience

Expeditioners are getting tired

Cold and snowy today

Working on journals before heading out

Getting ready for tonight's skit

Breakfast with the ranger.

Good morning from Yellowstone

Howard is the cutest beaver we've seen in Yellowstone.

What cold weather?

Greg is bummed wtih Sprint

Exemplary Students from La Salette

Incredible day!

Lunch on the trail

Moutain roads

Snowshoeing in the Backwoods

Wolf!

More Presentations

Presentation Time.

We love Ranger Michael because

Ranger Mel demonstrating a geyser.

Sampling at New Trail Spring.

Sampling at Orange Spring Tuesday afternoon.

For those of you who...

Yellowstone Legends in the making

Ask your daughters about...

Weather changes RAPIDLY!

Joe says...

Howard says

Chaperones "working hard"

Trail Spring

Learning on the trail

Snowshoeing

View from the Dorm

Class begins right away!

The Roosevelt Arch

Almost to Yellowstone

Wow we made it through

We made it to Denver!

Denver!

Online Field Trips

Almost there!

Thanks to Adam Hinton!

Big Thank You

Welcome to the blog!