Things We LOVE This Week

• indoor plumbing 
• shorts & t-shirts
• air conditioning
• beds
• solid night of sleep
• non dirt tan 
• no new blisters
• walking around without a Camel back
• motorized vehicles

We have a deep appreciation for the list above because last Thursday, Friday, and Saturday we went on a Pioneer Trek. Yes, all 4 of us. Keith and I were called to be leaders and the kids went as youth for their Youth Conference. We wore pioneer style clothing, walked, pulled overflowing handcarts, walked, slept in tents, used port a potties, walked, ate delicious food (seriously--yum!), and washed up with wipes. In spite of all this, we had a great time.

We walked approximately 23 miles in 3 days. Thankfully, other than some blisters, we had no major injuries. Not bad for over 30 kids and 17 adults. The youth all stayed energetic, hydrated, and full of strength. After the second day of walking in the blazing sun with very little wind, and over 90 degree heat, many of the kids still had energy to play ultimate frisbee before dinner. The kids on this trip were quite amazing. They pulled and helped each other on the trek without bickering. Hopefully, they got a small glimpse of what the pioneers experienced when coming to Utah.

During the Women's Pull, the young women and women leaders had the opportunity to pull the handcarts without the men. The conditions were created to be extra difficult. The young women had to do part of the pulling without the adult leaders. They really stepped up and plowed through it. The girls didn't once complain and maintained a cheerful and positive attitude. This was the best and worst part of the trek.

Zack chats with friends on our break for lunch.

Nicole chats with one of the leaders.

 

Zack is on the right helping to pull the handcart across the "river."

 In the end, we were very grateful we were able to experience this together as a family. New friendships were developed and old ones deepened. It was nice to have some time to get away from the hectic pace and noise (no electronic devices or phones were allowed) we have in our lives.

Now, we are looking forward to our Fleming Family Trek :)