Took the kids to the 2013 Pioneer Trek

This morning came very early for our family and friends.  We woke up at 5:00 am to get up and get ready for this year's Pioneer Trek.  In preparation we had Reece spend the night, Ethan and Ephriam were supposed to also, but they didn't make it.  They showed up at our house with just 2 minutes to spare before leaving...super close.  We met everyone at the DQ for a group photo.  It was still so dark.  Here is the only photo I got of my three kids before heading out on our 2 hour drive to Bradfordsville.

Devon 18, Robert 14, Marissa 16
Ready for the Pioneer Trek

We arrived at the Trek Registration around 8:00 am.  I think everyone was excited as well as a little apprehensive about what was they were about to embark upon.

Robert was assigned to the Blue Wagon (name?) with Steven Fisher (by chance), Marissa was assigned to the Orange Wagon (name?) with Meg O'Brien, and Devon was assigned to the Gray Wagon (name?) with Seth Orr (by chance).

Robert all dressed and ready to embark

Marissa and Meg so happy to be in the same company

 At first Robert was with the wrong company, but almost as an answer to prayer Steven Fisher came over and said, "Robert, we've been looking for you - you are in our family."  I was so relieved.  When we first checked Robert in he was assigned to a family without any of his friends or anyone he knew.  I knew he'd be okay, but then he was also with a family that didn't make me feel like it was the right match (nothing bad, just a feeling).  I was so happy for him to find his correct family.  As soon as that happened I felt so much better - like you have no idea - SO MUCH BETTER.  I knew the Lord would look out for my little boy - he had a great Ma and Pa and he had Steven there.  If Robert couldn't be with Devon then I would love for him to be with Steven.  Steven is preparing to leave for his mission to Scotland very soon.  What a strong, devoted young man!  (Steven is in the blue shirt next to Robert).

Robert's Family

I also feel very good about Marissa's family.  The Ma and Pa seem so wonderful and caring.  I explained that Marissa had just been in an accident and that she was on restricted stress to her neck.  They were so nice about it.  I also told them about her syncope - they said it wouldn't be a problem.  In addition to that, it looks like there are a lot of strong men in her group.  4 girls / 4 boys.  I don't know how it is that Meg and Ben got to be in the same group but there they are...and Brandon too - so 4 youth from our unit.  It's so interesting to see how the Lord's hand works.

Marissa's family

I didn't get a photo of Devon's family.  He was so happy to be reunited with friends from other wards - friends that were his age and doing the trek for the 2nd time, too.  I think Devon is the only one from our unit with his family.  Of all my kids, I know he's the one that can handle that - he's happy to make new friends and doesn't rely on others to make an experience.  He makes the best of it in whatever form it comes - a bit like me.  You take life as it's given to you and make the best of it.  I'm so grateful for his wonderful attitude and happy outlook on life.  Doesn't he look happy with Angela and Hannah?

Devon with Angela Day and Hannah Orr

 Another reason I loved being at the Registration was the chance to see others from our trek 4 years ago.  I was blessed to get this photo of Devon and Ken Wier - both in our family (Sessions) from 4 years ago.  Ken was an amazing help to Mark with the cooking.  Ken is preparing to go on his mission as soon as his braces come off.  I'm so proud of him.  It's amazing to see the difference between these two men today vs 4 years ago.  They have both grown up so strong in education, person, character and testimony.

Betsy with Devon and Ken - both in her company 4 years ago

 At 8:30 President Day called the Company meeting.  He introduced himself as the Trial Boss and his wife as Mrs. Boss.  So cute!  He invited the youth that had done the trek 4 years ago to come to the front.  I knew all but one ...  He had Angela Day share from her experience and then added his counsel and scripture before leading the group out.  It was so strong and powerful.  It was the perfect send off.  I could feel the spirit so strong.  I'm so proud of this group and their leaders.

2 timers - Yoslin, Devon Fielding, Devon Lowe, Angela Day, Hannah Orr, ?, and Ken Weir
Each did the trek 4 years ago.

 At 9:00 - the carts headed out.  Marissa's company was about 5th in the line.

Marissa helping to pull the cart up the hill

So proud of you sweetie!!!

 Robert's cart was about the 7th cart to head out.  Imagine my surprise when I look up and there he is on the pull bar.  WOW!!!  Robert and Steven are the first to pull the cart.  You could tell he was working hard.  I was so glad to see he had his gloves on.  (he's only 90 pounds - my prayer is to please protect him).

Robert on the pull bar - oh my gosh!  I'm so proud of you

 Devon's cart was the last cart - they looked a bit like we did last year - a little disorganized and surprised that they were heading out at first but then Devon and Seth jumped at the chance to pull the cart.  Up the hill and onward.

Devon and Seth on the pull bar - He will be a great leader and help to this family
Devon I'm so proud of you.

 There the go ...

God Be with You

It's official - the Pioneer Trek is started. And away they march into the unknown with only the contents of their 5 gallon buckets, their testimonies and each other. - nothing modern - nothing of this century - nothing more. What an amazing sight... and this is before they get to the real trails (and trial). 

They even had to cross rivers

Marissa crossing the river

Robert on ropes crossing the river

Devon as support crossing the river