In Which We Walk

This morning the husband and I awoke the children before dawn. On a Saturday. It was the morning of the Pioneer Trek Fun Walk- a walk to make sure we are prepared for the actual trek and up to the task of walking. Funly.

We slipped newly purchased Crocs on six tiny feet and pushed chilly arms through the long sleeves of jackets and we were on our way.

We made one stop to pick up a young man and young woman in our ward, who happen to be siblings, and hopped on the freeway to the trailhead. As we journeyed, the husband recounted to our little riders the story of a pioneer whose life truly inspired us as we watched a DVD depiction of it last Sunday evening. Maybe you have seen it. It is called Only a Stonecutter. And it is amazing.

We arrived at the walking site, wagon and stroller in tow. The husband manned the wagon, while I manned the stroller. (for some must push and some must pull) And we began walking. For 4 miles we walked. And we were supposed to complete the walk within an hour.

As we started out on the trail, the morning air was crisp and I watched my little brood. And my heart was warmed instantly. I love these people.

Oldest daughter took over stroller duty and ran most of the way while little son enjoyed the ride. Middle daughter sat snuggled with blankets in the wagon as the husband chauffeured her cute little highness. And we continued like this for the majority of the walk.

We caught up to the young lady we had picked up that morning, her brother long past her, and found she was struggling a bit, so we slowed our pace and encouraged her on. We remained by her side for the remainder of our little trek, sharing stories and dreams of the utltimate prom dress (her dreams, not mine) and drank our little water. And we tried to keep up with oldest daughter who seemed to have in her backpack endless energy for this walk.

I was itching to go a bit faster, but determined to see this young woman finish the walk. Her brother came back to lend encouragement and walked the last 1/4 mile alongside his sister. We finished the walk in 1 hour 11 minutes. And it was a victory for this cute young woman with prom dreams. I don't believe she has ever accomplished such a feat. And I could have hugged her brother for coming to rescue her.

And I must add that I incorporated the stretches you all suggested and I believe that they did help. My legs held up beautifully.Thank you for your wisdom.

And now I am off to plant tomatoes and strawberries, onions and peppers in my garden. And the husband will plant the lime tree.

What a glorious day.