Radio Rookies took a trip to the Catskills -- tasting a bit of fresh air, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoyed the star filled night skies.  The trip was a tremendous success (we didn't get eaten by any bears!).

Apparently there was a bear lurking near the cabin we were staying in. No one informed us until we were packing the cars to leave, with a casual question, “Did you see the bear?” "Uh no… what bear?" Of course ignorance is bliss, at least for me (only since we didn't get eaten by a bear) -- otherwise us city slickers would have been fretting too much about this Ursus Americanus to really enjoy ourselves. Don't worry we would never put the Rookies at risk of being eaten by a bear.  We made sure to not have any food left on the patio.

Much of the trip was a great getaway -- many of the Rookies went on their first hike, cooked their first s'more and swam in their first waterfall. They also had a chance to make some progress on their stories -- it's not everyday they get to work in a peaceful, tranquil and focused environment. 

Here's what one of the Rookies had to say about her experience: 

"We went hiking on the first day and it was the first time ever in my whole life! Even though I was whining a lot about the bugs biting me it was a good experience.  My favorite part was the waterfall. I’ve never been under a waterfall before -- it was GREAT!!!! The fresh water coming down our heads made me feel like I was in heaven for some reason.  The bonfire was another thing that I enjoyed because I’ve never done it before. Oh! I almost forgot! The house, “The Gray Barn” -- it was AMAZING! I wish that this was my place, but I can’t afford it.

Throughout the trip we talked about ourselves, learned about each other, made jokes, cooked, made breakfasts, played games (Taboo), and we danced (not to be forgotten!), and we worked on our stories.  Everybody was involved at all times, especially when it was time to eat. We all prepared the foods together and we all had different duties prepping, cooking, and cleaning. We all came together as big happy family, it reminds me of the time when my family used to be all together!"   

- Danielle M.