I usually do whatever Larry wants to do. I cook what he likes even though it isn't always what I like. I really try to please my sweet hubby BUT I didn't want to go to trek and so I didn't. I knew Larry would "guilt" me into going if I didn't leave. So I left. I don't regret it and I'm glad that Larry, Jaydan, Kimi, and Jared were able to experience a wonderful trek together. I was thrilled when I heard that Jared was going to be able to go because I knew he would love it. He did love it ..... in fact they all did. Larry has been very involved in planning trek with Courtnie Merril and Jayden Fulmer for a long time. It was worth all their hard work because trek turned out great. So many pitched in and helped out and it ran smoothly. The experience was good.
Some of the things I learned from my family is that trek was perfect even though it poured buckets of rain on them the first day and was hard. Trek was fun. They played games together and ate good food. They talked about early pioneers who walked the same trails (or at least the same land) They bonded and grew new friendships with everyone who went. They felt the presence of Angels. The veil is very thin and testimonies grew.
My family talked about working together and helping others out. Everyone did that. They were united and all worked together. Even though it was hard they laughed....they laughed a lot!
I learned that the hardest day was the Second day when the women had to pull the wagons up a hill by themselves. Jared told me he cried....Larry and Jaydan also cried. In fact everyone cried. It was hard on the women. Kimi was feeling sick to her stomach and wanted to quit but remembered the pioneers and that helped her to keep going. She felt the spirit come over her and give her peace and helped her feel better. She cried but didn't want the others to see. I think she thought she was the only one but in reality everyone was shedding plenty of tears. It was a humbling time of the trek.
I learned that bodies get worn down and exhausted but are able to keep going. I learned that the Priesthood is very powerful. Emmalee Winter sprained her ankle and was able to still complete trek without any help. I learned that women don't need the men as much as the men need the women and that women are the crowing jewel. (the men said that)
We are all in this together and we can do anything with each others help. People are just good!
I learned that the girls in the Shannondoah Ward can beat the boys in tug a war every time. I learned that Jared is a good sport and didn't care who won but enjoyed playing regardless.
I didn't learn this but know that Bishop Ropelato loves the people in the Shannondoah Ward and would do anything for any of them. He is truly a man of God and lets God guide him and direct him. I admire that a lot! Even though I wasn't there to grow closer to anyone I love them all too! I admire every single person that went on trek. I am thankful to everyone for blessing the members of my family!
I am thankful for a book that I got "Who's Pulling Your Strings". I read just a little while I was gone avoiding trek and helping my niece. I am pleased with myself for Pulling My Own Strings this time. I know me and know that I do not do well in the hot weather. (I get sick) I also know that my back is bent and too much standing at one time hurts it. I am glad that Larry tries to understand and lets me make my own decisions. I have a great family and a great ward family!
I am thankful for the pioneers and their faith in God and for their powerful example. I am thankful that they shared their believes so that I can be were I am today. We are so blessed!
