The Crockett family setting out on a pioneer trek : Ma and Pa and our 9 teenagers. Three days later we had walked 17 miles with our loaded handcart. We did lots of activities along the way like taffy pulling, leatherwork, square dancing, hatchet/knife throwing, lots of games, food and fun times...
We had some upbeat, positive kids and there was lots of singing and laughing. Not too rough compared to the real handcart companies, but we felt like we gained a better understanding of their conviction, faith and sacrifice. We also gained a new appreciation for all of our modern comforts and conveniences. Those nights under the stars were beautiful, but it would have been nice to have slept. We couldn't wait to get home to a shower and a real chair to sit on. Not to mention ice cream, ice water, and any food not cooked over a fire.
We were glad to be able to sing through it all as those pioneers of long ago. Their faith enabled them to have joy through their trials. We hope to be more like them.