The Trek *uncovered*

We just returned from a fireside at the Stake Center where a slide show was put together of the recent Trek we went on. I realized how long ago it already seemed--I had better write something before more slips away...here is a taste of what it was like, but no one will ever know truly unless they were there.

Day 1: We arrive at Tragedy Spring, California late afternoon and are given a tour by the ranger of the monument. We then travel a short drive to our campsite for the night. Families are assigned and it is very apparent after about 2 minutes that two of our "sons" might need to be tied up with ropes very soon or maybe even put on short leashes. Wow. Ward talent show under the stars. Flashlights only for the Ma's and Pa's. Dark. Dark. Dark. Sweet dreams...until who knows what time and I am awaken to the snoring of someone camping near by. But oh, the stars are awesome.

Day 2: Rise and Shine with the sun. We pack up and head out on our first day of the trail. The first 2-miles were from the original Mormon Immigrant Trail. Rough, rocky, and hills. Two hard to motivate boys. 6 miles seemed long enough in the dirt, dust, and sun, not to mention the handcart and a baby in my belly (at least my arms didn't get tired :) This is going to be an adventure.

So happy to see the port-a-potties...not because I had to go, but that means we made it! Family reflection time, some dutch oven pizza, and wonderful pioneer stories. Everyone is beat after a long day. I guess I won't be hearing the girls chat it up all night. Stars still fabulous.

Day 3: A death in the family (mock, not real) starts the day off differently to say the least. Must carry on. 4-miles up and down a much more traveled trail. Surprise! All of the men are taken for the Mormon Battalion. Ladies left to fend for themselves. Jovial, singing, strong women pulling the cart. Stop at a water hole. All is well until an uphill climb. Relief sets in when the men are seen lining the path. Why are they just standing there? Part of the "plan"...our Men take over the wagon when we reach them (even the two little whipper snapper boys help). Good thing--big hill ahead....I mean HUGE HILLS ahead. Slipping in the dirt and rocks,

multiple ropes needed, all carts need about twice the man power to make it up. Relief to see camp once again. Men and women go back countless times to help ALL of the families up the HILL (18+ carts). Very very cool. Once again tired teens--and Ma's and Pa's. And to think thereal pioneers averaged 16 or 17 miles a DAY. That used to not seem quite as far until we

embarked upon this journey feeling an inkling of their struggles and burdens. How did they do it? Brought games for down time--never played them, everyone too tired. Wet wipe bathing. Pony Express delivered mail from parents. Alone time for all. Testimony meeting. Carry on. Monster cookies. Tired Ma and Pa. Amped up teens (last night, you know). Did I mention I LOVED sleeping under the stars?--4 shooting stars tonight, the most so far.

Day 4: Morning came early for everyone today--actually woke from the bugle horn. Last day. 2 short miles, but worn out bodies all around. Silly made up Army songs along the way. We pulled up the tail end today. Port-a-potties seen. We made it. All is well. Only 3 bug bites. Can't believe its over already.

What an experience to learn of all of the sacrifice, faith, physical-mental-spiritual trials, and so much more that the pioneers gave up or went through to follow the Prophet and the Lord's plan. Beyond admirable. Something I hope never to forget.