Day One - Oklahoma Bound!!

This morning, our fantastic youth gathered at 7am to check in and meet their "families". After check in, the youth had the opportunity to meet their families, go through their supplies with their "Ma"s and "Pa"s, and start getting to know one another. There were lots of smiles and excitement as they went through these last steps before departure!




After the check-ins and introductions were completed, the youth gathered in the chapel for an opening devotional. After a musical number by a youth violin quartet, Pres. Chamberlain addressed the youth regarding the trek they were about to embark on. He expressed to them that this would be a significant experience, even a "turning point in your spiritual lives." He told the youth that "it is going to be hard, but it is going to be fun." He advised them to learn to love one another, to remember their eternal perspective, to be kind and unconditional in their love, and to eliminate contention and competition. If the youth are willing to accept this challenge and rely on their Heavenly Father, they will have a great experience and come home changed on Saturday. He closed with an expression of love for the youth, and the hope that they would have "joy in the journey, and faith in every footstep."


It was then time to board the buses and head out!


Meanwhile, at base camp in Oklahoma, the advance party is getting everything prepared. President Little said "This is going to be amazing."

Stay tuned for more updates form the trail!

**Note for parents: It was announced today that the youth are expected back around 7am Saturday, and that the ward calling trees will notify everyone an hour before their arrival. I will also post estimated arrival times on this blog, so check here if you are concerned about not getting the word before arrival.