Pioneer Day Celebration

Yesterday was July 24th. To some that may not seem like an important day, but in our lives and religion it is a day that we celebrate the Pioneers. The ones who reorganized the church here on the earth, the ones who crossed the plains, the ones who came from lands far away to settle here in the USA, and the ones who continue to be pioneers in their own families.

It happens that this year the 24th fell on a Saturday, which was perfect for our joint ward Pioneer Activity. In the past years dressing up has been a big part of the celebration. So the kids and I found the old skirts and aprons, I made 4 new skirts this year (for Cheila, Madison, Abi and myself).... I bought the boys outfits on clearance at Target and we were ready to go. (I bought Mike suspenders to wear, but he refused)

Here are the kids in their outfits.

I was a little sad that nobody else dressed up! Needless to say the older girls quickly realized that nobody else was dressed up, so they quickly went to the car and changed their clothes.

Soon after the activity started, the broke the kids up into groups..... our first activity marbles. Well it turned out to be more of chase the marbles since it was on the wood floor.

Then it was onto making wagons out of graham crackers, marshmallows, pretzels, life saver gummies, a rollo and frosting.

Abi was very proud of her wagon.

Jace was too... (I did not get a picture of Kade's)

The kids played a lot more games, but they were outside, and since I think I broke my toe, I sat inside and did not get many more pictures (although I did give the camera to the kids, but no pictures were taken).

We had a nice dinner on the grass of hamburgers, hot dogs, salads, chips and lemonade.

After dinner there was a Oak Hills vs. Phelan Ward tug of war, men and boys only. Oak Hills won... mostly with the help of Jace... good thing he was there!

The Oak Hills young men, young women and primary also all won their tug of wars also!!!

After the games and food, we went inside for a musical fireside. The group was great sharing some great pioneer songs and stories. Near the end, they allowed the kids to join in the band. Jace was very eager and happy to participate. He had a maraca. Abi had a kazoo and a tambourine.

I hope we can all remember what the pioneers have sacrificed for us. I am grateful for their courage and strength to move onward, even in tough times!