Over the next few weeks, we will be adding blog posts from some of the individuals who were an integral part of Parleys Trek 2012. We know that the thoughts and feelings that they are able to share will help those of us who were at "home", tap into the beauty of this incredible experience. Enjoy!

As you know, callings in our Church are often more fulfilling, than helpful to others. The calling to be a "Ma" on Parleys Trek 2012 was an extreme example of this.  I will admit the thought of walking around the high Wyoming desert in the summer heat, did not inspire thoughts of happiness. However, the opportunity to spend time with the youth of our Stake overcomes all qualms. It was so inspiring to watch youth, adults and leaders work, struggle, laugh, whine, exult and learn together. This Stake is full of the most incredible people I have ever known.

The adventure began as the leaders and youth gathered starting at 5:00 a.m. at our own Stake Center. 18 months of planning and hard work were about to pay off. The youth arrived and were immediately separated into "families" that they were supposed to bond with to share the experience. From these simple beginnings, the Trek family was born. It is fascinating how quickly the bonds start forming. As the week wore on this was one of the most rewarding parts of Trek. The love and connection formed allows teaching moments from Mas and Pas to "kids" and in my experience even more teaching comes from "kids" to Mas and Pas.

Your children taught me to work harder than I knew was possible. I was taught to fall to knees in gratitude to our Heavenly Father. I witnessed kids having patience, learning with simple faith, looking out for each other and helping without being asked. We are in very capable hands with the youth of this Stake. They are well on their way to being the leaders, missionaries, mothers, fathers, and faithful Saints of tomorrow.

Teri Lyn Baucom

Stake Relief Society