I remember first hearing rumors about our stake going on a Trek last summer. I was not thrilled because at first rumor was that only 14 and up would go leaving all the first and second year beehives with no girls camp experience. Alyna and I went to the 11 year old girls camp and the stake counselor over the youth was there and talked with us a little about the trek and that 12 to 18 would go. So I started to warm up to the idea.
Then came the work and I was a murmuring pioneer mother. I was having a HARD time with making those dresses. Mostly I was just frustrated with my lack of sewing abilities and patience. But a few sisters came to the rescue and I got a few lessons in sewing and we finished them up the week before the trek.
Saturday before the trek we dropped off Alyna's sleeping bag and 5 gallon bucket with her 17 pounds of stuff and really started to feel the buzz of excitement. The girls were darling in their dresses on Sunday and I felt bad for complaining because I knew that this was going to be a once in a lifetime experience and that she would have some amazing experiences.
They left early Tuesday morning and I was so glad that she got to go. Only she could tell you of her experiences on the trek. But from pictures the photographer was posting each night I could tell that my little girl was working hard. And yet I was thrilled that she could be apart of this. I wonder, will we look back on our mortal trek and be thrilled that we were part of building Zion. I think we will.
Friday morning Mark, myself and the kids made the four hour drive up to the ranch to be there Saturday when the kids came into base camp. I get all teary just remembering that sweet experience. All who were there gathered around and again there was excitement in the air. I am having a hard time putting words to what an inspiring experience it was for me. There was no fanfare, the kids were hot and dusty and tired. The adults the same and yet there was joy. Probably mostly joy that it was over, but more than that hearts were touched... changed. I may never know all that happened to my little girl on her first summer camp experience as a Young Woman, but I do know that it was good. I have a testimony of coming together as saints, both young and old. That it is sometime a hard row to hoe, but as the Lord says to the Prophet Joseph in D&C 122:7 "...know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good."
I am so grateful to those in our stake that saw the vision and made this experience possible for our family. It was good!
We spent the afternoon slip and sliding! What a blast!
2 comments:
I was able to go on Trek to Martin's Cove and Rocky Ridge because we are closer to Wyoming, and it was definitely a life-changing experience. It builds such testimony-following the footsteps of our ancestors and the early Saints. I loved it, and I'm always so happy to hear about other people going and enjoying it, too.
I was hoping that you would post about your trek experiences. I when a first years ago and still cry when I talk about it. The girls all look so darling in their pioneer clothes.
Thanks for sharing
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