High job satisfaction level today. We conducted a benefit trip for the Ticket to Dream Foundation, an organization that supports foster youth and whose mission is simple-“Help foster kids just be kids”. It went as it usually does. At the beginning of the trip, most have really no idea what they are getting into. There are many trepidations, much uncertainty. However, after the first couple of rapids and splashes, the hesitations go away, the wonder sets in, and they can just be kids. There was teamwork, lots of laughter, a couple unplanned swims, lots of questions, and much fellowship. Much of what these kids identify with is the number of their group home, being shouted over and over as we travelled. Everyone just wants to belong to something, to fit in. For these kids, it was their foster youth group home. That really made an impression on me. I found myself hesitant to ask too many questions. As a guide, I pride myself on getting to know people almost instantly, but I didn’t pry here. I can only imagine what some of these kids have been through. None of this happens without my awesome crew, easily the best on the river…Alia, Aaron, Jimmy, Steve, Adrian, Fletcher, Hayden, and Trinidad…well done everyone. Keep it up, you’re doing great things haha. And, Pat and Tom from KNCI, the originators of the idea, we appreciate all the love. Go out and help someone out…none of us do it enough!