Summer's Trek

Our Modern Day Pioneer- the day she left

Dreams really do come true.
Summer has been dreaming she could be a pioneer ever since she read "Little House on the Prairie"  in I think 2nd grade.
She even dressed up like one for Halloween in 4th grade.
She was so excited to learn she would be going on trek this year.
She prepared physically and spiritually.
She made her clothes, gathered her gear, and read about her ancestors.
I think she knew it would be hard, but couldn't really imagine how hard it would really be pulling a handcart in the mountains, over rocks and up hills.
Let's just say she looked a lot different than the picture above when she got home (she wouldn't let me take a pic.)
I have never seen her face so sunburned or her body so dirty.
Yet she had a smile on her face as she hobbled off the bus because of many blisters.
She told us all of the details and how although the last day was the shortest in distance, it was the hardest.
She was tired and almost cried when she entered "Zion".
After a shower and clean clothes, I asked her if she still wishes she could be a pioneer.
Her answer was very wise.
"No!  But I did gain more appreciation for the pioneers and for horses and oxen.  I don't want to be a pioneer, but I want to be just like them."
I think she got the point of the experience and I am sure it is one she won't forget.