The Keystone Kids couldn’t hide their excitement when talking about their recent trip to Toronto and Niagara Falls.

They were gathered at the Keystone Blind Association in Sharon and spent the morning working on a Vista newsletter they’re writing about the trip to Canada.

During a lunch break, the kids chatted about clothes, music and Myspace. They also talked about their favorite moments and what the experience was like traveling outside the United States.

Twenty young people between the ages of 9 and 24 who are visually impaired made the trip by Anderson Coach July 29-31, association children’s program coordinator Kimberly Paglia said.

“I think it was a success in many ways,” Mrs. Paglia said, noting the trip was designed to build the kids’ independence and life skills, as well as provide a good time.

“The kids were really fantastic on the trip,” Mrs. Paglia said. “They really worked well together and supported each other.”

It was association Chief Operating Officer Perry Templeton’s first trip with the group.

“I enjoyed watching the kids enjoy themselves,” Templeton said, adding that it’s important for him to understand exactly what the association’s programs do.

The trek north was “pretty cool,” said Josh Calvin, a senior at Commodore Perry High School.

Everyone enjoyed shopping — a few maybe too much — and visits to Niagara Falls, Medieval Times, the CN Tower and the Hard Rock Cafe.

The poncho-clad crew rode on the Maid of the Mist, which Josh summed up: “It’s wet.”

The falls were loud, Kristen White of Youngstown said, and lived up to the description of them.

Another highlight was cheering on the red knight (who turned out to be a traitor) at Medieval Times. The great food had to be eaten without utensils, as in medieval times.

The Hockey Hall of Fame was a treat for many of the youth.

“I got to touch the Stanley Cup,” said Brett Sherbine of Beaver.