Updates on my Missing Family

Chris and Caleb have survived the 50 mile hike so far. There is only one day left and they cannot wait to get back to civilization and all the luxuries that entails......hamburgers, pizza, ice cream, running water, beds, showers, air conditioning, and the list goes on! What started out as a rather large group of 5 leaders and 8 boys has now dwindled to 2 leaders and 4 boys. Some only planned to come out for a day or two and join in the hike and some left early due to sickness or difficulty hiking the terrain. One of the leaders from our group suffered severe heatstroke and collapsed on the trail. The senior boy scout on the trip ran ahead, filtered water, and brought it back to him. Then he carried this leader's 40 lb. pack and helped him to the next shelter. I am so greatful for the life skills these boys learn in scouts. It is nothing short of amazing to me that they can literally save lives! The leader is now back home and recuperating comfortably. I am glad that Caleb and Chris have been able to share in this time together. Chris has been involved in scouts the majority of our married life and we were so disappointed that he was released right when Caleb turned twelve. I know he is excited to be back in and share in these experiences with his son.

Shelby called from EFY last night and said she is having so much fun! She has really bonded with her roommate, a girl from Tennessee, and is also spending some time with girls from our ward. She said that the first few days it seemed like it was all about church stuff and then all of a sudden it struck her on Wednesday that it all ties together! Church stuff and your life are interconnected! I was so glad to hear that she is enjoying it and learning things in the process. She said she has taken so many notes because she really wants to remember everything she is learning. I am so glad she has had this opportunity! I hope she can bring what she learns home and apply it to her life here in a meaningful way.