Moosehaven was thrilled to welcome six Mooseheart students and their family teachers for a week full of fun, bonding, and unforgettable experiences during their 2025 visit.
Day 1 kicked off with creativity in the ceramics room, where the boys painted keepsakes to remember their trip. They explored the train room and pottery studio before lending their sharp eyes as judges for Moosehaven’s first-ever Recycled Fashion Show. The evening wrapped up with friendly competition in the weekly dart tournament alongside our residents.
Day 2 was all about sunshine and splash time at the Mandarin Moose Lodge. After hours of swimming, the lodge treated the group to a pizza and wings lunch. That evening, a delicious dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse brought together the boys, their family teachers, and Moosehaven residents for great food and even better company.
Day 3 included a special stop at Jacksonville Beach Moose Lodge. Gift bags were waiting, and the boys spent the morning enjoying the surf and sand with lodge members. The afternoon was filled with laughter and games before returning to Moosehaven for a fishing adventure at the pier. While most fish were small, the memories were big!
Day 4 brought Sunday chapel services followed by a relaxing afternoon and an evening ghost tour in historic St. Augustine. From the Castillo de San Marcos to the spooky streets of the Old City, the boys soaked in stories and local lore – hopefully without nightmares!
Day 5 took the group to Camp Blanding, where they got a powerful history lesson on World War II. Swimming in the lake and dinner with mini golf at Lake Shore Moose Lodge capped off another incredible day.
Day 6 rounded out the visit with a trip to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. The boys were fascinated by the wildlife and learned a few things for their biology classes back in Illinois. The final treat? A movie night to see Superman at AMC Fleming Island.
Throughout their stay, the Mooseheart students brought energy, curiosity, and kindness – making meaningful connections with the residents and staff of Moosehaven. Their visit exemplifies the heart of our mission: bringing generations together through fellowship, service, and care.
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