Oct 21, 2023.    Even though it was rainy and cold, it did not dampen the enthusiasm of thirteen highschoolers of The Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx. Some of them were newbies to Apple picking and hiking. All of them were very excited and eager to go on this expedition in the rain. Luckily, rain slowed down and eventually stopped by the time we started with apple picking. The students really enjoyed being outdoor, connecting with nature and exploring new things. They had great time picking apples, tasting them, admiring its freshness and juiciness, and most of all being outside with the nature. After exploring the farm and having lunch, we headed to the Nyack Beach and Hook Mountain State Park for a short hike. We really wanted to go all the way at the summit, but considering it would take more than three hours, we cut our hike short and just reached to the half way and came back. But nonetheless, students had great adventure on the hike (on muddy and slippery trails). This was the very first trip for the students to join NYC-ICO and they can't wait to go on next outings. They already started making plans for the next trips. Overall a day well spent!