Trek

For the Hatch Family reunion this year we went on a Pioneer Trek at the Sixth Crossing in the middle of Wyoming. We have several ancestors on both sides of the family that were in the Willie Handcart Company, so it was neat to go back and trace their steps.  The Findlay's on the Hatch side and the Oakey's on the Robertson.  Its fun to think our ancestors knew each other and struggled and walked those paths together. 

We hiked six miles that first day, crossed a river, and did a women's pull.  Hollie cried the entire time during the women's pull because I made her walk and when I thought I couldn't handle her anymore, there where the guys waiting for us.   Hallelujah!  She promptly fell asleep in the cart and took a much needed nap. It was rough but I'm hoping she learned that she can do hard things.   Other than that she was a great pioneer and my goodness, she was looking cute!

Gavin was a trooper.  He loved the dirt and being outside for days on end. 

Previous to the trek all the adults wrote down our testimonies and then Aunt Heidi bound them together into a leather book and gave a copy to everyone.  What a treasure!  Grandpa even included some fun memories of his childhood and when he first met Grandma.  Our very own Book of Hatch.

We had so many neat experiences, but the kids all said the best part was being with cousins!

The next day we went to Rock Creek Hollow and had a devotional.  I love Rock Creek Hollow. It has had a special place in my heart for years because we, too, were once stranded there, (because of a flat tire,) and had our own miraculous rescue in response to an answered prayer. 

That afternoon we hung out at camp and did crafts.  Jotham and Grandpa helped the boys with some leather working, while the girls played with beads and learned how to make corn husk dolls with Grandma Loalee. 

It was a fantastic reunion!