After listening to my sister talk about her Rustic trips time after time, I decided I had no other choice but to go on one myself and experience all the amazing things she was talking about. To say the least, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

When I chose the Heart of the Jungle trip I had no idea what was in store for me. From delicious food to unbreakable friendships, early mornings to late night games, and relaxing afternoons to long expeditions, I had the time of my life.

I created a bond with each and every one of the members in my group including our leaders and even though we were only together for two weeks, we became a family who now shares inside jokes and amazing experiences.

When thinking back on the trip, what stands out the most is the time at the end of the day when we would all get together. Every night we would come up with something different to do whether it was playing a game or just sitting and talking.

However, my favorite nights were those we spent under the stars. It was those nights we spent camping away from civilization with no power or cell service that made me the happiest.

The skies were clear and the stars were bright which made it perfect for us to lie down and stargaze. An activity as simple as that contributed greatly to the bonds we created and is still, for me, the highlight of the trip.

I went on this trip having no idea what I would take away from it and I left with 16 new friendships with incredible individuals that I now hold very close to my heart.

Even though we all live in different places and it is difficult to see each other, the memories and experiences we now have remind us that we are all sleeping under the same stars. <3

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