Entrance Gate to Martin's Cove Site

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Oct 14

We are home and mostly unpacked. The trip home was very eventful. We packed the motorhome on the tenth and secured the bicycles on the rack in front of the motorhome. The Honda was happy to be on the dolly behind us. On schedule we left at 5:30 AM on the eleventh and made good time until,,, just before reaching Casper a large deer raced across the highway into our path. We ran over the deer and the front bicycle which was knocked off. My German racing bike was not recognizable and I tossed it to the side of the road. The deer had its hind legs fractured including the hip and I pulled it off the road as well so it wouldn't be mutilated any further. I even talked to the deer and wanted to know what it was doing on the highway this early in the morning. There is some damage to the motorhome grill and the step is unusable. The dolly lost its hitchpin and a running light on the right front of the fender, and the Honda has some scratches with the front and rear bumpers catching most of the damage as well. We continued on after buying a new hitchpin and securing what was left of the second bike to the broken bike rack. After that we just kept traveling towards Bigfork. This whole episode delayed us for about 2.5 hours. The weather was just great and all the clouds vanished after we crossed from Livingston over to Bozeman. Since the hour was getting late, we stopped and mingled among parked truckers at the Conoco Truck stop for the night. We had a "fancy" dinner at the McDonald which is part of the Rocker facilities and then slept comfy until it was time for us to start again in the morning. About 8:10 AM we arrived in Missoula and fueled the MH at the Costco store. Bernice was so good in making something to eat for us while were on the road. It is great to travel by MH and have a semi kitchen, a bathroom and one can even walk back and forth for excerise. We got home about noon after we picked up our mail at the post office and had them resume delivery. The house looked just as we left it, but the apple trees and plum tree were a total mess. There was one apple left laying on the ground which the bears must have missed or were interupted. It will take a while to prune those trees after removing all the broken off branches.
This is the end of our Martin's Cove Mission blog.  Thank you for visiting this site and if you have any questions about our mission, please talk or write us.
Good by.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Oct 10Well, the time has come to pack up our belongings in whatever spot we can find in the motorhome or car. The car will follow us real close while on the dolly.
We have completed all of our work here on the homestead or at the missionary camp area. There was a little leak in of the fittings, but that has been overcome and all is working well.
The weather has moderated a little and there is even some sunshine. Bernice has gone to the pavilion fridge to see what was left behind by those who have gone home. She hit the jackpot with a lot of things which are now in our "ICE Box".
We will see all of you when we make the trip around family. Take care, stay healthy, The Gospel is True.
We are signing off from the Highlands of Wyoming, Mormon Handcart Historic Site, Martin's Cove.

Monday, October 8, 2012

Oct 7This week has been a whirlwind affair. So much to do and not much time. Well, the wells are done and I just have to make out my report to place in the records of Martin's Cove Historic Site.
However, during this week and the cold snap several hydrants in the missionary village have frozen and need attention tomorrow and the next day.
Several couples have been given an early departure because their service was no longer needed. The rest of us have to wait, to finish our work, and then let go on the eleventh, this coming Thursday morning. We are trying to make the whole trip in one fell swoop.
This summer the well at handcart parking gave us some problem with sand. I got a good crew together and we pulled the pitcher/hand pump, 32 feet, and then let down our submersible pump to 85 feet. We pumped for two hours and for the first half the water was deep brown. At the end of our pumping the water was crystal clear and tasted great. Then we reinstalled the pitcher pump and all is ready to go for next trek season. To sterilize the water for consumption I added eight half inch HTH pills to each well. That will keep stuff from growing in there.
Saturday we watched/listened to three sessions of conference which were wonderful and informative. It is great to have a new temple announced for Tucson, AZ and another place in Peru which I can't spell. The other announcement by our prophet was the changing of ages for our young missionaries. Young men are now eligible at eighteen and the young women at nineteen. That is a welcome change because we tend to lose a few during that first year out of school, high school that is.
Almost time to go to the homestead and be there when the "Music and the Spoken Word" starts. After the first session we will have our last potluck and this time it will be a real "potluck", everyone is cleaning out their fridges for the last meal together.
Later:
The potluck was a grand affair. Every type of food was represented. We took some home canned London Broil in a nice tasty sauce. It went real fast as did everything else.
Then we watched the afternoon session of the 182nd General Conference and went back to our "box". We also are using the fridge in the empty trailer next door which makes it easier for us. We have not yet received the new cooling pipes for our Norcold RV refrigerator. Don't know when they will show up, but we will not be here and the parts will have to chase us down.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Sep 30Well, September is almost over and with that our last 11 days at Martin's Cove have arrived. A lot of clean-up work is being accomplished with the cold season fast approaching. Pipes and water systems need to be purged, wells sterilized, new septic systems/ leach fields finished or prepared for the long Wyoming winter months.
The sisters in the humanitarian center are organizing their materials, finishing blankets, crocheting a baby afgan, making hats for cancer patients. A large shipment of blankets was delivered to a military base for processing to a hospital in Germany. These blankets are made to fit a hospital guerney and should keep our injured soldiers warm. During this upcoming winter, the missionaries who stay here will have ample work in the humanitarian center. This center has five sewing machines, one serger and one embroidery machine. There are at least twelve shelves of materials with no less than 3 yards per material bolt. Cabinets upon cabinets of yarns. All the materials have been donated by members or friends of the Church who then bring this material with them when they come to serve here. Some of the material also comes from neighboring stakes; Riverton, Rawlins and Casper mostly.
Our last combined (Willie Site and Martin's Cove) potluck was today and we all said a teary good-by to each other. Many friendships have been forged with some of them being long term. Some of us will probably never see many of the missionaries again while in mortality. The Grim Reaper will see to that.
It is time to start getting the motorhome ready for the trip to Bigfork. The nights are cool and the furnace comes on now and then. The days are still warm and school groups are coming to visit the Cove as part of their Wyoming history classes. A group of about ninety school children are expected during this week.
The Antelopes are in an agitated state during mating season right now. Every day we see fights for dominance and we don't seem to matter with our presence. They run into motorhomes, buildings and cars chasing each other and their "girlfriends." Sometimes it is comical and sometimes downright dangerous.
The local wolfpack, coyotes and cougars take their share of Antelopes for their food chain. We see evidence of that almost daily. Their cries, howls and barks we hear just about every night. The Antelope feels safe here at the Motorhome park so there is quite a number of them living here. Two bucks chasing each other came close to toppling Sister Gloschat as she was coming back to the motorhome from the pavilian.

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Sep 24The final week of trek training has gone by the wayside. Over 200 had been scheduled to come, but only 178 came. One unit did not show up at all. Mostly the units schedule six or seven and then only half of those come to the training.
The well test pumped very nicely. At first I pumped lots of sand which is normal for a well that has been in slow operation, pitcher pump, which causes sand to accumulate at the bottom. After a few minutes the water cleared up and setting the pump at 85 feet the water drew down to 26.2ft and stayed there while the well delivered 30 gpm. The water is delicious.
Then I had to repair another hydrant that had a rusted out liftrod, and an irrigation valve at the homestead. This weekend I found another hydrant which seems to have a bad liftrod as well. I will find out this morning after our prayer meeting.
During this week our refrigerator went south. The cooling unit rusted thru and all the amonia and hydrogen escaped. Going on the internet, while I could, I found a manufacturer in Arkansa who had a unit for our Norcold in stock. Hopefully the mail or UPS does not take too long to get it here.
Also this week we got a call from Jim E. with the tale of three bears breaking down our apple trees on the home front. This has not been a good week for good news. Well, I guess, that finding a cooling unit was alright. All of our fridge stuff has been doled out among other missionaries and the pavilion freezer. We are doing without a fridge right now. I have never R and R'd a cooling unit before, but I will learn; I have no other choice.
Last Friday Bernice played for the trek-ers at the entrance of Dan W. Jones Cove. My part was to hold the umbrella for shade on the instrument and B. She also worked in the Humanitarian Center and onSaturday we had bathroom cleanup so that our trek-ers had clean bathrooms. B finished a baby blanket and made very nice placemats from left over cloth, too small for anything else.
The second year missionaries are leaving this week and we have two weeks left after that. Tonight we have HE at the Willie Site and Bernice is playing her violin for that. It is a long way to go for a HE, but they have to travel here every weekend and then some.
I have repented of my anger with the Lord for not watching my fruit trees better. I know that bears like apples, but they don'r have to break down the trees.
Also I ordered 3 chords of firewood for the "farm" from Lonnie Doige, 406-837-0547. I sent the check by way of Jim and it never got there before he left for Seattle and Oregon. We tried to intercept the letter and hopefully Jim got it arranged so our mail lady could drop it off at Doige's.
My right eye has something in it that I can't get out. May have to go and see one of those eye doctors this week.
Today we will repair another hydrant and then try to move our well pumping rig to another well.
Yesterday was our last Sunday with all the missionaries at the trek center. From now for the next two Sundays we will meet in the chapel and will have enough room. This coming Wednesday, the 26th, we will have our farewell dinner and lolts of tears will surely flow. After these six month or more, we have made friendships and they will be hard to leave behind.
Sep 28Our Monday H.E. was held at the Willie Site. For three hours we listened to missionary talents including a serious piece by Sister B. Gloschat. Half way through we had refreshments of all kinds including sausages in a neat sauce, lots of different types of cookies, and the ever present water. The Turek's came with us and that gave us a better evening. It was an evening of fun and travel.
On Tuesday worked in the humanitarian center and I worked to help Elder Ralph Ohm on the new sewer system. Wednesday was our P-day and it was the day to see the dentist and Ophtamologist. The dentist removed the roots of my left molar and scraped what little infection there was. The Eye doctor found a small amount of cataract in my right eye and that the viscous fluid was separating cleanly from a small part of the retina. Watch it! Not a concern yet.
Worked on pumping another well after removing the pitcher pump and down pipes. This well does not seem to be as strong as number #1, but the flow after pumping the collected sand out will be sufficient for whatever will be needed at the Cherry Creek Campground. We will continue to make a record of this well. One well, number # 4 has filled in with sand and I will try to pump the sand out to make a productive water source.
Last evening we decided to move our M.H. to a different spot after I took down the antenna. We moved next to trailer number eight and since we are sharing the fridge with them we are now closer. Have not heard from the company in Arkansas when they shipped our replacement cooling pipes for the Norcold fridge.
Time to get ready for work--------.
Sep 24The final week of trek training has gone by the wayside. Over 200 had been scheduled to come, but only 178 came. One unit did not show up at all. Mostly the units schedule six or seven and then only half of those come to the training.
The well test pumped very nicely. At first I pumped lots of sand which is normal for a well that has been in slow operation, pitcher pump, which causes sand to accumulate at the bottom. After a few minutes the water cleared up and setting the pump at 85 feet the water drew down to 26.2ft and stayed there while the well delivered 30 gpm. The water is delicious.
Then I had to repair another hydrant that had a rusted out liftrod, and an irrigation valve at the homestead. This weekend I found another hydrant which seems to have a bad liftrod as well. I will find out this morning after our prayer meeting.
During this week our refrigerator went south. The cooling unit rusted thru and all the amonia and hydrogen escaped. Going on the internet, while I could, I found a manufacturer in Arkansa who had a unit for our Norcold in stock. Hopefully the mail or UPS does not take too long to get it here.
Also this week we got a call from Jim E. with the tale of three bears breaking down our apple trees on the home front. This has not been a good week for good news. Well, I guess, that finding a cooling unit was alright. All of our fridge stuff has been doled out among other missionaries and the pavilion freezer. We are doing without a fridge right now. I have never R and R'd a cooling unit before, but I will learn; I have no other choice.
Last Friday Bernice played for the trek-ers at the entrance of Dan W. Jones Cove. My part was to hold the umbrella for shade on the instrument and B. She also worked in the Humanitarian Center and onSaturday we had bathroom cleanup so that our trek-ers had clean bathrooms. B finished a baby blanket and made very nice placemats from left over cloth, too small for anything else.
The second year missionaries are leaving this week and we have two weeks left after that. Tonight we have HE at the Willie Site and Bernice is playing her violin for that. It is a long way to go for a HE, but they have to travel here every weekend and then some.
I have repented of my anger with the Lord for not watching my fruit trees better. I know that bears like apples, but they don'r have to break down the trees.
Also I ordered 3 chords of firewood for the "farm" from Lonnie Doige, 406-837-0547. I sent the check by way of Jim and it never got there before he left for Seattle and Oregon. We tried to intercept the letter and hopefully Jim got it arranged so our mail lady could drop it off at Doige's.
My right eye has something in it that I can't get out. May have to go and see one of those eye doctors this week.
Today we will repair another hydrant and then try to move our well pumping rig to another well.
Yesterday was our last Sunday with all the missionaries at the trek center. From now for the next two Sundays we will meet in the chapel and will have enough room. This coming Wednesday, the 26th, we will have our farewell dinner and lolts of tears will surely flow. After these six month or more, we have made friendships and they will be hard to leave behind.
Sep 28Our Monday H.E. was held at the Willie Site. For three hours we listened to missionary talents including a serious piece by Sister B. Gloschat. Half way through we had refreshments of all kinds including sausages in a neat sauce, lots of different types of cookies, and the ever present water. The Turek's came with us and that gave us a better evening. It was an evening of fun and travel.
On Tuesday worked in the humanitarian center and I worked to help Elder Ralph Ohm on the new sewer system. Wednesday was our P-day and it was the day to see the dentist and Ophtamologist. The dentist removed the roots of my left molar and scraped what little infection there was. The Eye doctor found a small amount of cataract in my right eye and that the viscous fluid was separating cleanly from a small part of the retina. Watch it! Not a concern yet.
Worked on pumping another well after removing the pitcher pump and down pipes. This well does not seem to be as strong as number #1, but the flow after pumping the collected sand out will be sufficient for whatever will be needed at the Cherry Creek Campground. We will continue to make a record of this well. One well, number # 4 has filled in with sand and I will try to pump the sand out to make a productive water source.
Last evening we decided to move our M.H. to a different spot after I took down the antenna. We moved next to trailer number eight and since we are sharing the fridge with them we are now closer. Have not heard from the company in Arkansas when they shipped our replacement cooling pipes for the Norcold fridge.
Time to get ready for work--------.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Sep 10
This week we had frost for the first time since last spring. The temperature went down to 29F and the waterline to the motorhome got a little slushy. I started working on two pitcher pumps, replacing the down pipes and repairing the lift rod. Since I don't have a 25ft boom here, we had to lift the pumps and pipes with a backhoe which was OK but certainly a little backward.
Bernice had a lot of inventorying to do, bringing all the first aid stations up to date, practicing her violin for all the activities she would be involved in.
Tuesday we went to Rocky Ridge for a long climb and hike. We started at the lower monument where missionaries from Sixth Crossing gave a wonderful narrative of the Willie Rescue of 1856. We then started our hike which was only a five-plus mile? round trip. Some pulled handcarts with water jugs and knapsacks in them, while others just walked and visited. The rockhounds in the group could not help but bend over here and there for a looksee of a pebble or two, some even carried some of the mountain with them. On the Rocky Ridge we had our lunch and then a small program followed with continued stories of the rescue orchestrated by Brigham Young to "Go and Bring them In".
Wednesday was our Prep. Day and as always a trip to Casper and shopping for the next week. We had lunch with another couple, the Riding's from Logan,Utah, at a Chinese Buffet. We didn't know it, but they treated us to lunch. What a nice thing to do, now we owe them. That evening we drove the Sixth Crossing and had a fireside with Scott Lorimer covering the Willie Handcart company in detail. It was a wonderful and another full day.
Friday morning the Trek leaders started rolling in, setting up their tents and by 11:00 AM the training started. As part of the program Bernice played Church Hymns (Come,Come Ye Saints; I Need Thee Every Hour; I Know that My Redeemer Lives) at the entrance to Dan W. Jones Cove as the leaders filed past her into the cove. I held the umbrella to keep the sun off Bernice and the violin. We did that twice since we split the leaders into two groups.
At the dinner (6:00 PM) in the barn the "band" played and Bernice had a big part in that. At the close she was asked to play Millionair Holliday to a rousing applause. After dinner we had square dancing outside the barn. Square dancing was one of the pioneer highlights of the day since it relaxed the muscles after a long day of walking, pushing and pulling their handcarts.
Saturday morning breakfast at the barn started at 7:00 AM and then we settled in for more training until lunch at 1:45PM. All during this training we mingled with the leaders to answer questions or just visit about their home units and their plans for next year's trek. The training was well received and covered ALL aspects of trek-ing at Martin's Cove and the Willie Site, from snake warnings to dehydration, to camping, care of the handcarts, following BLM rules, preparing the young people in their home units for a perfect trek experience. Most units will have their young ones trek for a pioneer of the Martin or Willie companies. Some will be carrying a doll to represent their pioneer person. That also includes adults who walk for an ancestor pioneer.
The temperature moderated again with the ever present winds from the west.
Evening:
Don, Nola, Carol and Lynn are here. They arrived about 3:15 PM after they stopped in Rawlins for lunch. Just after they got here we had a tremendous rain shower and wind. The wind opened the rear ceiling vent and some water came in through the screen, the floor got a little wet, but not too much.
At 7:30 PM we had our home evening and it was a riot this time. About six couples had a skit about obedience and listening to instructions. After that we had to follow instructions a little bit at a time to finish a predetermend course. All this was followed by some cookies and no milk.
I checked out three more wells, determined the depth and static water levels. There is so much to do yet and the time is running down. Bernice worked on her knitting. She is trying to finish a baby afgan for the humanitarian center. It is very time consuming and especially when she makes a mistake and has to undo several rows.
We have been challenged to read the Book of Mormon in the next onehundred days. Time to go and read a few chapters.
Sep 12
Yesterday was a full day with visiting the Cove, telling stories of pioneer faith, obedience and enduring to the end, as we traveled the trails in the directors Kawasaki Mule. We had lunch at Handcart Parking and then Don, Nola and Bernice walked to the Cove (2.3 miles) and I (Fred) drove Carol and Lynn to the overlook monument. On the way we stopped at the Statues and I told the Statue story there. When we got to the monument Carol decided she was going to walk the back way to the cove. As she was leaving another rover came with three ladies who also wanted to walk the back trail. As it happened they were DUP's (Daughters of Utah Pioneers) and Carol had a great time walking with them.
One of the ladies was the author of the Relief Society lesson which Carol was to teach this coming Sunday in her home ward. The three ladies came to the Cove on their way to Lander for a DUP convention. Barbara and the third lady had been on a cruise with Don and Nola a couple of years ago. My, how small the world is when you are a member of the Restored Gospel and Church.
Just as we were coming to a close of our trip around Martin's Cove the sky darkened, the winds came increased in strength and some rain fell. It was enough to wet the ground and keep the dust down.
When we got home to Ranch 66 I found that the wind had knocked my antenna down and I needed that for the QSO (HAM appointment) I had with the pilot of a B-1 Bomber from Ellsworth AFB on 14,250 MHZ. I don't know what happened to the Bomber because he never showed up on frequency. However, I was able to make contact with KL7MVX (Alaska) and then with KD4FNI in Ozark, Alabama. Just as I was going to shut down Julio, KB2SDN, from New Jersey wanted to QSL and he told me his life story. We chatted for a while, exchanged information, said 73's and called it a night.
Today I have to find a pump which I will need to check the flow of two wells. It is not easy to do a job when the pieces or tools are not readily available.
Talked to Joe and Mike yesterday. Mike is trying to have his orders to Huachuka cancelled and Joe is in Tacoma doing what Inspector Generals do. He will be going home on Thursday.
Gotta run, wash needs to be checked.
Sep 15
Trek Leaders have been coming from all over the western states for their planning and information sessions required for stakes, wards and branches to participate in any trek-ing in 2013. It has been a rough two days, but all leaders are now on their way home with envelopes full of requirements and suggestions, and helpful hints.
I am in the process of test pumping two wells for a proposed future project. Lately I have been doing what I thought I had been called to do here in the first place. Repairing pumps, checking wells and doing everything that has to do with clean water. I still have not had the opportunity to check well tanks for reliability, but I have been training, in a small way, those missionaries who will stay here over the winter (called Polar Bears).
I believe that to be a correct name. The temps have been going down to the upper twenties during the nights, but reach into the 80's by afternoon under 40% clouded skys. Very little rain has fallen and when it does, Katie bar the door, it comes with buckets for about ten minutes and usually sideways. Mostly enough to wet down the cars and then the blowing sand will make sure that our vehicles look like we never wash them.
We have one more weekend, Friday/Saturday, of trek leader training and then we will be starting our shutdown programs. The second year missionaries will be leaving here the end of September and the first year missionaries on the 11th of October, or sooner if the weather threatens winter conditions for homeward travel. The first year missionaries came two weeks early this spring to get Martin's Cove set-up for the new missionaries.
We had Cameron and his wife come here for trek training. They are from Alpine, Utah and spend their summers/Christmas in Bigfork. Their daughter brings her Harp and we enjoy her talents during Sacrament meeting. It was good to see them, their smiling faces and enthusiasm for next years trek from Alpine, Utah.

Monday, September 3, 2012

Aug 31Today we are on Work Crew and I am finishing up the water truck and making some welding/press helps. After we are done with that we will be on our way to Mt. Rushmore.
We left about 11:30 AM to make a stop in Casper for lunch. We were relying on our Tom-Tom to find us the shortest route and we got to Rapid City, SD in about 5.5 hours. Our accomodations at Ellsworth AFB were very nice and our sleep was very restful and quiet. I tried out the barber shop at the Base Exchange because I was feeling like a mountain man and the barberette took off quite a bit of my locks. It must have been not too much because no-one at Church this morning made any remarks about having received a haircut.
We checked out of the hotel and made our way to see Mt Rushmore. There seemed to be an awful lot of people there. Parking at the site is $11.00 and that is under cover. There are no other charges to see the presidents. Mr. Borglum did an outstanding job and the faces should stay there until nature takes over and the rock wears away.
From there we went to see how the Crazy Horse statue is coming. The head seems to be completed, but there is yet much to do before that can be called finished.
Then our Tom-Tom took us through Custer and finally back through Casper and home to Muddy Gap. We arrived back here 9:45 PM and sleep sounded so good. Our motorhome felt like home. This is the first of September.
Sep 2, 2012We had a full house during our three hour block meetings. Lot of visitors for the three day holiday. Our Fast and Testimony meeting went way over time, but that is alright because this is the last time for our second year missionaries. They will be leaving in three weeks for their home and some of them will return in October to spend the winter here. They are called Polar Bears.
Tomorrow we will start our preparation to train Trek Leaders for next year. That will start this coming Friday. Stake and Wards will send their leaders here for a weekend of training and then they will prepare the Trek-ers in their units for next year.
Today was a beautiful cool day. The nights are starting to be cool and the morning cool air is so refreshing.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Aug 28 What a full week this was once again. The preparation for the Sun Ranch Day took up all of our energy. There were tents to be set up, picnic tables, restrooms checked once again, corn husks and cloth for doll makings, games for children, arts and crafts for children ( adults enjoyed those activities as did the children), parking lot directions, thirtytwo dutch ovens for stew and peach cobbler, four five ft. griddles for fry bread, tables and chairs in the "barn" so visitors could eat their dinner. Public address systems for country singers, small guitar band with Bernice's violin, horses and their riders to demonstrate the times of the "Pony Express". The children loved the horses and especially when they gave rides around the ranch. We learned that the Pony Express riders carried their mail in a "Mochila" which fit over the saddle, hung down on each side, and the young man sat on the center section which was somewhat smooth with the saddle. Each Mochila had four mail pockets.
One of the stories told is of a rider who "lost" his Mochila and after several days the wind blew the content over most of the Wyoming Highlands. The Indians had found the Mochila and did not know what it was and just scattered the mail for the wind to pick up.
Another story told is of a relay station where no rider was available when the tired rider rode in. The station master told that his son could take the mail since he knew the route and was available right then. The young man carried the mail for several month before the supervisors found out that he was only eleven years old. The requirements for a Pony Express rider were:
Quote:
"The choosing of riders was of the u(p) most importance. The success or failure of the operation depended primarily on the rider. They had to be young, good with horses, accustomed to being outdoors, and to be able to endure hardships. Eligibility required a good moral character. Upon being employed, each rider was required to sign Major's oath, and was given a bible." Ref: Pony Express 150th Anniversary Year, pg.10
Unquote.
Most riders covered 75 miles each day.
The Sun Ranch Day was a success even though we are having stew for several days. We had prepared for onethousand visitors and counted almost sixhundred at the end of day. That left a lot of stew and fry bread uneaten, and peach cobbler.
One of the highlights was that two Amateur Radio Operators received permission to have a "Special Event Call sign, K7A" for the day. The first CQ call went out on 40 meters early in the day and was answered within few minutes. For long distances we used 20 and 15 meters, and the first CQ call was answered at 09:25 from Madison, WI. One return was from Hawaii and on the other end, Nova Scotia.
The call went like this:
CQ,CQ,CQ Special Event Station K7A from the Sun Ranch at Muddy Gap, Wyoming. After the CQ was answered we would tell that the Sun Ranch was established 140 years ago. That Martin's Cove was located here and as missionaries of the LDS Church we tell of the handcart pioneers and their history as it happened in the winter of 1856. We tell that the California, Oregon, Mormon Trail and Express Rider trail come right through the Sun Ranch and is now a national monument. We also told them that it was sad that they could not be here for the dinner. Almost all wanted a QSL card which I designed and which despicted pictures of the ranch, Wyoming, and the black handcart silhouette. Everyone who contacted us was encouraging for number of contacts, and letting us know that we are doing a great work to protect the history of Wyoming. All were invited to come and visit Martin's Cove. Quite a few replied that it would be a future vacation destination. At the end of day, 18:25 hrs., we had a total of 102 contacts who heard the story of Martin's Cove and the Sun Ranch. The last contact was from Quincy, Illinois whose ancestors were involved in providing refuge to the Saints when they had to leave Missouri. We thanked him for the friendship shown those early Saints.
QSL cards are now being prepared for mailing. One QSL card arrived today from Springfield, Utah.
Monday was a day for returning the Ranch and MHHS back to a pre-celebration visitor center standard.
Tuesday I received some help from a fellow missionary to remove and replace the water pump on the water truck. After several hours the job was completed and the truck is ready for whatever water needs there are on the property.
Tuesday evening we were blessed with a fireside by the "Pay Sisters." They told of their ancestors faith, obedience and endurance as they crossed the plains pushing and pulling handcarts during the latter part of 1856. These are the sisters of the late Marjory Pay Hinckley who is the Eternal companion of our late Prophet, and President Gordon B. Hinckley. Sister Bernice Gloschat was asked if she would play a violin solo which she did to a rousing applause.
Aug 29Today we are serving at the Veil Crossing Bridge. The wind has rocked our motorhome for most of the night. The nights have started to be cool and no A/C is needed. At night the sky is filled with the brilliance of a gazillian stars, the sky is clear for a majority of days/nights and as far as one can see the wonders of God are evident.
This Friday, 31st, after our shift we will leave for South Dakota and overnight at Ellsworth AFB before visiting Mount Rushmore. We will return on Saturday to prepare for the Sabbath.
We changed shifts with a couple from California, Anaheim Honda Dealer, who wanted leave Thursday afternoon for a two day trip. Since we had the morning shift they asked if we would take their afternoon shift and they would take our morning shift. It was fine with us and now we are going back to the Veil Crossing bridge Thursday afternoon.
There was not much traffic today at our bridge, but we had a delightful young couple with four children who were moving from a small town in Oregon to Pueblo, Colorado and a new job. They were so intent while we told the story of the bridge and Eliza Neibauer. We told the story in a way that the young children would not loose interest. It was a highlight of the day. One more couple came by who were in advanced years and they knew most of what we were sharing with them which made our part kind of superfluous.
No snakes today, no Antelope at our post, not even the little rabbit came by. During these times we get a lot of reading done and crocheting. I was filling out the cards which are to be sent to our Special Event contacts.
With the temperature in the upper ranges of "HOT", everyone's A/C is running which tends to trip the breakers in one of the main panels. And then some travelers move in for the night and they run theirs as well. That causes the wash house back-up and we all get behind in our wash house schedule. Life is tough!

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Aug 16Today is Nancy and Chad's 26th wedding anniversary. As always they have a full days activities planned.
It must be getting close to Christmas because the Idaho Falls tree club has a meeting already.
Yesterday morning we saw our first two wolves as they ran across the prairie to their mountain home. We had heard some howling noises the past few nights and now we know why. They were beautiful specimens with their full tails streight back as they ran. It seemed as tho the antelopes paid no attention to them.
Today was the last day of trek groups. This one was a scout troop with fifteen planned attendees. We counted only nine as we attended them. Six members of the troop bowed out before their departure for Martin's Cove. It was a great group of yooung men and a joy to work with them today.
Next was a German family which spoke very good English and wanted to hear lots of stories about the pioneers who came on the trail and their faith promoting experiences. We had to shuttle a lot of missionaries around because we are running short as we get towards the end of the "open" season.
This next week will be busy with preparations for Sun Ranch Days and all the visitors we expect. A hundredfifty pounds of beel loin has been cut up into stew meat and one of the missionaries is in charge of making this great stew to be enjoyed by all.
Today also was the last day of the excursion into the hills for fence poles. The plan was to get fourhundred plus poles to replace broken fences. The goal was met this afternoon and hamburgers were the treat for the hard working lumberjacks.
The weather has cooled dramatically. We expected frost this morning, and it came very close to being just that. Most of the Sisters wore a coat of some kind this morning.
Well, the Gospel is still true. We have our Prophet, Thomas S. Monson, who receives revelation for the Church. It is getting close to celebrate his eightyfifth birthday and the Conference Center will be filled for that event. He is a good man to be our Prophet.
Aug 19What a busy three days we have had. Friday was the Preparation Day and a full day it was as we shopped for ourselves and the ranch. Lots of repair parts we found in town, but some had to be ordered in from the manufacturers. It is always a good thing to go to town and relax from the rigors of every day activities. We are getting ready for the "Sun Ranch Days" celebration this coming Saturday, 25th of August. We are celebrating 140 years of Sun Ranch. Today we received our schedules and Joachim (Fred) will man the HAM radio for this special event. Our call sign will be K7A and we will operate on 20, 40 and 80 meters. We will call: QRZ (3 times), K7A from the highlands of Wyoming, Martin's Cove. We hope to make many contacts and we have designed 50 cards to be mailed out as a QSL. I will have to move my antenna to the activity site as will one other HAM for his Transmitter and receiver. There will hopefully be four of us to operate throughout the day.
Bernice is assigned to the first aid station, the lost child and information booth.
We hope that lots of people come, otherwise we will have to eat 150 lbs. delicious stew during the week.
Our shift for Saturday was in the morning. I was assigned to repair sprinklers with parts I bought in Casper on Friday. Also check out all the restrooms for this next week. Faucets and flushers have to work just right for as many people as we expect. Sister Gloschat (Bernice) was in the Humanitarian Room setting up quilting frames and finishing up guerney blankets for injured serviceman and women. We also write a small card to accompany each blanket thanking them for their service to our country. We have close to a hundred blankets which will be given to the Air Force for transportation to military hospitals. This has been done in the past and is not a new program.
There were several visitors here for our church service. They are mostly children of missionaries assigned here. For our services we have two couples speaking with a special musical number inbetween. Each speaker is asked not to exceed 10 minutes, but usually the sisters will take more and leave very little time for the elders. It works out OK.
The gravel roads are very hard on my bicycle tires. So far I had to repair 7 punctures on the front tube. It might mean that a new tube might have to be bought.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Aug 6The Trek group for 1:00 PM from La Grand, OR, did not get there until after 2:30 PM. One of the bus drivers became ill and had to be rushed to an emergency room at a city nearby. They then had to fly in a new driver so the fifth bus could go on. The fifth bus got here at 4:15PM just in time for the cooks to have lunch ready. Everything was late and that really puts a crunch on all other activities. The time schedule is very tight since we have so many people coming in at one time. This Trek group was only 307 people.
At about 4:30 PM brother Jim Reed and Velma came to the "Welcome" gate and it was good to see him and her; and the kitty accepted us.
I called the host at the Missionary Village and the spot next to our MH was free. When we arrived home at 10 after 7:00 PM we were able to visit for a while and at the same time do our white laundry.
I finished one card for the "Sun Ranch" day activity and now I will have Ralph Ohm see if it is to all our liking. We think that maybe fifty cards would be enough for the possible HF contacts. Several visiting HAM's are excited about this Special Event and will try to attend or at least check in.
Besides the Trek Group we had about eighteen family groups come in fairly separated to not cause a rush on the visitor center. It has been a very interesting assignment to see the different type of people come and interact with us as we welcome them. Several motorcycle travelers came and even one couple who are on their home from their honeymoon at Sturgis, SD. All of the motorcycles have either been a Honda Goldwing or a Harley Davidson. I still think that a Honda Accord has a roof over ones head when it rains, or cool in the summer or warm in the winter. Good night!
Aug 10Today is our last day for the Welcome Post. Tomorrow we will have preparation day and that means a trip to Casper for supplies, including card stock from Staples for the cards I am making to reply to those who answer our QRZ call on the 25th of this month. The table for the covered wagon has been made and it will fit right over the side boards without maring the paint or wood. We hope that this will be an inaugaration for years to come.
We had good trek groups this week with the Hansen, ID-- BSA troop being the last one for this week. As we got the troop ready for their handcart trek to Cherry Creek camp it was noticed that they had requested that Ephraim Hanks and Thisbe Reed visit their camp that evening. Our schedule only went to the eights and did not include the ninth. Now what? I had a feeling that it would fall to me and Bernice to take up the slack. At ten minutes to seven PM I was asked over the radio if we could fill in. We did and it was a most rewarding event. We went to their camp dressed in our period clothing and they had just arrived there. It would be a late activity. The scoutmaster invited us to come and perform, but we resisted and asked him to set up their camp first and we could talk and visit in the dark afterward. At 8:30 all was ready for us and we did our thing. We were asked to stay for dinner which was a good thing because we did not have time to go and prepare a meal for ourselves. While were eating and visiting the scoutmaster and I compared notes. He was in Anchorage, Alaska after I had been there and had taken over my scout troop # 25. He knew the people I camped with and also the bishop of the second ward. It was a most meaningful evening and I call that "tender moments". It seems that there are no co-incidences while serving here. People, friends are brought together in a most delightful way. As we were talking during the meal the bishop turned to me and mentioned that his counselor was a g.g.grandson of Ephraim Hanks and that our presentation was true and correct. He just had not heard the Banty Rooster story that happened at Ft. Bridger. These things make this mission so special.
The visitors for the last two days were from various parts of the United States and two car loads from Israel. I was able to try out my little bit of Jiddish I know and was able to make them feel welcome.
Aug 14Tuesday today and the week's schedule has been changed again. We have "lost" three couples to family death's and their subsequent travel needs. It is a blessing that the trek-ers have stopped and just daily visitors come.
Yesterday we served at the homestead. Bernice with her brochure inventory and me with irrigation systems. There is always something that needs top be brought up to date.
The smoke from the fires out west is coming to us now. Those who have some athma do have breathing problems for most of the day. When the wind comes up a little during the day it clears the air some, but not enough for some missionaries here.
Today we were at Martin's Cove and not one soul came to see us. I have to admit that the sun and the quiet did me in. I dozed for about an hour and then the no-seeams got too busy. I also climbed the sandhill in the Cove I call "Pres. Hinckley" hill. There is a small cairn on top and someone was real energetic to haul all the stones up there. There was also a very nice Antelope Buck giving me the evil eye. He probably thought that he was King of the Hill. He snorted and stomped his feet and came real close to me. Being alone up there without any protection gave me thoughts of retreat; which I did.
The spirit of the pioneers is still with us. This morning at Prayer meeting it was my turn to have a scripture. I selected D&C 101, v 76. The spirit of 1776, I am 76 and I selected to read starting v 76.
I have ordered me a Romney/Ryan bumper sticker. It will go on the back window and not on the bumper.
Have a great day, Shalom.
Aug 16Today is Nancy and Chad's 26th wedding anniversary. As always they have a full days activities planned.
It must be getting close to Christmas because the Idaho Falls tree club has a meeting already.
Yesterday morning we saw our first two wolves as they ran across the prairie to their mountain home. We had heard some howling noises the past few nights and now we know why. They were beautiful specimens with their full tails streight back as they ran. It seemed as tho the antelopes paid no attention to them.
Today was the last day of trek groups. This one was a scout troop with fifteen planned attendees. We counted only nine as we attended them. Six members of the troop bowed out before their departure for Martin's Cove. It was a great group of yooung men and a joy to work with them today.
Next was a German family which spoke very good English and wanted to hear lots of stories about the pioneers who came on the trail and their faith promoting experiences. We had to shuttle a lot of missionaries around because we are running short as we get towards the end of the "open" season.
This next week will be busy with preparations for Sun Ranch Days and all the visitors we expect. A hundredfifty pounds of beel loin has been cut up into stew meat and one of the missionaries is in charge of making this great stew to be enjoyed by all.
Today also was the last day of the excursion into the hills for fence poles. The plan was to get fourhundred plus poles to replace broken fences. The goal was met this afternoon and hamburgers were the treat for the hard working lumberjacks.
The weather has cooled dramatically. We expected frost this morning, and it came very close to being just that. Most of the Sisters wore a coat of some kind this morning.
Well, the Gospel is still true. We have our Prophet, Thomas S. Monson, who receives revelation for the Church. It is getting close to celebrate his eightyfifth birthday and the Conference Center will be filled for that event. He is a good man to be our Prophet.
Tomorrow is preparation day, that means a trip to Casper.  We have thought of visiting one of the pioneer museums around the area; we'll see.

Monday, August 6, 2012

Aug 3Our performance at the Battlecreek Camp area went very well. When we arrived at their camp, dinner was still going strong. We were right on time and so we would not have to stand around we accepted their invitation to have dinner with them. A large piece of chicken, baked beans, salad, buns, and another square of mint brownie. It was the same ward who offered us a brownie in the afternoon while we were cleaning restrooms.
As we were leaving the camp after our presentation, the cook asked if we wanted to take some ice cream home with us. He ran out of dry ice and couldn't keep the ice cream till the next day. We accepted and he gave us several large boxes of orange drum sticks and ice cream sandwiches. They are in the freezer and we will use them for our home evening in a couple of weeks.
The wind which normally comes from the west has shifted to the east and that makes the fire smoke cover Martin's Cove and the Missionary Village. Visibility is very poor and we don't know how long these fires will go on. Many thousand acres have gone up in smoke.
Our shopping trip to Casper went well today and we even returned to our "box" in a reasonable time. Another gift came to our door step. This time it was a hand towel with "Faith in Every Footstep" on it and a lovely hand written card. That is a very nice, handsome gift. Yesterday we received four coasters with Martin's Cove photographs despicted. They are so nice, we would not want to use them.
Our rabbit has found himself a home right under our motorhome. He/she is not bothered by our walking past, he/she just watches with big eyes.
Aug 4What a full day this was. We left early, 8:15 AM, for the Pathfinder Ranch among several missionary vehicles heading the same direction. We stopped off at the mailbox along the way to send off two birthday cards to the Dan/Heidi Gloschat twins in Vancouver, WA. The weather was ideal with the temperature hovering in the 50's and a clear sky. For once we did not have any gails blowing; maybe we are just getting used to the eternal Wyoming winds.
The invitations to the Ranch were as follows: 8:00 - 9:30 AM one group of missionaries, 11:30- 2:00 PM the second group and the third group, which are the second year missionaries, came from 6:00 until the finish. The menu was typical ranch style. A very good breakfast, lunch was roast beef, and dinner would be rib-eye steaks. The caterers had two BBQ's and each would hold 120 ranch size steaks.
We were checked into the Ranch by a welcome guard where we signed a paper relieving them of any possible injuries which may befall us while looking at a cow, riding a cow, watching the rodeo, or even riding a horse, maybe just eating breakfast. The large covered pavillion was decorated so nicely with table cloth, flower pots and US flags. The food for this event was catered by a company out of Casper and it was very professional. We were served various Ocean Spray juices (many other drinks were available), sausage with egg and cheese on a sesame seed bun, a breakfast burrito, biscuits and gravy, a mini muffin, a choice of apple, banana or orange fruit. It was a good breakfast and the cowboy company added to the atmosphere. A photographer was busy taking pictures by the hundreds and he had all the missionaries line up for a group photo. We had such fun. We hope to get a copy of that picture.
At 10:00 AM the rodeo competitions started with a flag ceremony, a rider carrying the flag of the United States around the arena, and our very talented young lady singing the "Star Spangled Banner. All of arose and there were very few dry eyes. Isn't it wonderful to have a flag and a National Anthem to be proud of? Yes, it is. Pastor Rusty Weaver, country church, gave the invocation asking that all riders would be safe from injury and that all could enjoy the beautiful day, and giving thanks for the great country we all live in. The pastor was also one of the cowboys who tried to cut the ribbon from the tail of the calves. He came close, but no cigar. Sunday morning at 10:00 AM he is holding "Cowboy Church on the Range" in the ranch's very own chapel. All are welcome!
The first action was a ribbon cutting event where the cowboy tries to lasso the calf after it comes out of the shute and a youngster has to take the ribbon off the calf's tail after it is held down by another youth. The calves were pretty good at letting the lasso slide off their backs. The best time was 17.75 seconds by a young boy no older than five or six, and the slowest was 47.9 seconds. Some missionaries watched from the fence rail, with other sitting in the bleachers. There was a huge vocal amount of support coming from all sides.
There was also a raffle going on and one could buy five tickets for $ 20.00. The money went for a good cause. A beautiful saddle, $6000.00 worth, a Winchester rifle, two revolvers, and $ 1000.00 & $ 500.00 shopping spree at Lou Taubert's sporting goods store in Casper. One of the missionary couples here won the $ 500.00 shopping spree. There were free T-shirts and red neckerchiefs with the ranch's logo.
About a quarter to eleven we had to leave in order to start our shift at Martin's Cove by 11:30 AM. Today we were assigned the Veil Crossing Bridge and as we got there one of the Rexburg Stakes, devided into three groups, came by to hear the story of the bridge and Ellen Neibauer.
I got to relate the stories several times to those groups and then several families came by to hear stories as well.
We had one member of record baptism this morning in the Sweetwater River and that family came by on their way to Devils Gate for a picnic.
Bernice was called out to help in the visitor center with a family from France. Their English was halting and with Sister Gloschat's French some communication was achieved. There was also lots of hand waving.
One of our other assignments today was cleaning the Barn and the Chapel. Three of us couples did the job in just an hour and now we are ready for the Sabbath. The chapel is used for Church during the winter months when just a few couples are here. During the trek season we have to use the trek center when around 200 attend; there are lots of visitors and that includes family members of Martin's Cove missionaries.
This evening those of us living in loop "C" got together to have some water melon and start our fast.
Aug 5Today our Sacrament meeting was filled to overflowing. We had visitors from all over plus a scout troop from Evanston, Wy. The young men were worthy to bless and pass the Sacrament in our meeting. These were the same young men who came by my Veil Crossing Post on their way to a fishing site in Devils Gate. The boys and their leaders walked all the way through the gate and saw several snakes which got out of their way, smart snakes. They also caught many fish, but not as many as they had hoped for. I mentioned to them that the Pelicans come in and try to clean up the Sweetwater River. That would explain some of the lack of fish in "our" river.
Many wonderful testimonies were born and the Spirit was felt deeply. We also had a baby blessed; Thomas Mark Seely. He is the baby born to Trinity and Jeff Seely sometime in June. He is a very content baby, never uttered a sound during the blessing. His father is unsurprisingly proud of his son and the father's blessing he received bore witness to that. His and her family were present for this occasion.
Today the visitor center was tremendously busy. Many individuals and families came to find out more about Martin's Cove. One family just stopped by because the sign said "National Historic Site". After walking through the center she, the mother, wanted to know more because she remembered that someone in her history came across the Oregon/California/Mormon/Express Trail. We have so many comments in the sign-in sheet which give their thanks for a great experience. There are also some detractor comments, but all who come here do so by their own free will and choice. It is a good mission to serve.
The evening was topped off with cold water melon, cantelope and gooey checker mix. A nice cold Ginger Ale topped it all off. Good night!!!!!!!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

August 2Yesterday Bernice and I were stationed at the foot bridge and we assisted over 250 people crossing the Sweetwater with their carts and belongings. Some of the young men, anybody under 76, carried women across so that their pettycoats would not get wet. That was done as three youngsters played "Come,Come Ye Saints", on their violins. A very moving experience.
We are always concerned when trek-ers want to go across with bare feet. There are sharp rocks under the sand and we have had some cuts or slices when our warning was not heeded. Some units are very prepared and come with water shoes for each trek-er. They can change into those and then there are no worries about damaged feet.
Today we had the privilege of cleaning the bathroom on the ranch; and there are a bunch of them. We have to have sufficient to handle 250 or 300 people at one time. Usually the need is greatest when they arrive by bus from some far away place. We pride ourselves on our clean restrooms, and visitors appreciate it just the same.
One of the couples from Texas surprised me after work with a bottle/jar of Duesseldorfer Mustard. I tried some without a hotdog and wow is all I can say. That horseradish is mighty powerful. Almost every day a small gift will be in our mailbox from a fellow missionary couple. Most of them are just good ideas and some are down-right expensive.
Our cleaning was interupted by one of the new trek cooks, just came today, with her scruptious brownies; mint of all things. Each trek group brings their own cook and cook house or trailer. They come with big refrigerated trailers, enough food to feed an army; which they are doing. Those of us who have part in their programs at their campsite are always invited to stay and eat with them. Sometimes just walking by brings an invitation.
Tonight Bernice and I will be doing the Ephraim Hanks and Thisbe Reed play at one of the fire rings at the Cherry Creek Camp Ground. After that we will assist in square dancing. It has been a lot of fun to see hesitating young men competely change after an hour of dancing with a large or small group. As missionaries we are always right in the middle of things.
Jul 21A very busy schedule was had for the last four days. While we were stationed at the "Foot Bridge" a small family group came with their covered hand cart. They had already covered about five miles and were now going to cross the river in commemoration of the crossing on November 4th, 1856. That done, we thought that they would now return to the "homestead" by way of the sand trail. Grandmother had two bad knees and the grand children were abt. : girl 11 and 6, boy 8 or 9, and their decision was to do the steep women's pull. As Priesthood we could not help them, but we could stand on the sides at the top and watch, take pictures, no cheering, just pray that the women are up to it. So many women had lost their husbands, had sick husbands and children. Yet, there faith and inward strength brought them to the Valley. This women's pull is to honor all pioneer women and their dedication to the Gospel and foremost the New and Everlasting Covenant which was available to them in the Endowment House in Salt Lake City. This little family accomplished so much amid shed tears by those of us who prayed them up the hill. Two little girls and a sore kneed grandmother. Angels were helping them.
Also we had two trek groups come and cross the Sweetwater. One group had the Aaronic Priesthood carry the women across. The young man who carried the Bishops wife fell and dropped her into the swift flowing current. I am sure that it was unintentional, but that also happened when four young men carried many across in minus ten degree weather and blowing snow, November fourth 1856.
Today I was working on a water truck centrifugal pump which we better not tear down until all the trek-ers have left for the season. It will take several days to rebuilt this pump after we get the right spare parts. We use this truck to spray the gravel roads and camp sites so that the dust is manageable. After the middle of August the trek-ers will slow down since school starts for many.
Time goes by so fast that we lose track of "what day is this?" The rain clouds still go around Martin's Cove and the heat is oppressive, just wears a body out.
We will do our level best to represent our Stake here. Have a great day,
Your Martin's Cove Missionaries
Jul 22Wonders of all wonders; the internet is accessable tonight. After a great potluck dinner today, and my poppyseed cakes receiving accolades, we had an evening of Broadway show tunes sung by Dean Larimor, accompanied by his wife. It was a great evening, the kind of music that is kind to the ears and mind. At one time, to give Dean a break, the audience sang Do Re Me from "Sound of Music". I will be singing "If I were a Rich Man" most of the night.
Lightening has struck and the prairie south east of us is on fire. The strong winds do not help at all to control the blaze. The highlands of Wyoming get very little moisture, the clouds come over us, but will not let lose of precious sprinkles.
Bernice and I were Ephraim Hanks and Thisbe for the Declo 1st ward Friday evening. While the ward was sitting around the propane fireplace they asked their bishop if he would perform the Shoshone raindance. He did and within a few minutes some sprinkles fell, not enough to make any difference. While we were performing our skit he did the raindance again and this time we got wet enough to cool us off.
On the way home tonight from the homestead we stopped to watch a rattlesnake by the side of our road. It had seven nice buttons and it wwent off through the sagebrush to find supper. I did not have my snake stick in the car and didn't want to just pick it up by the middle. Good choice.
Jul 26We received some rain in the last few days. The mornings would start out sunny and hot while in the afternoon clouds would build up and leave a few minutes of rain behind. The air would cool and it would be a pleasant afternoon. The rain would decend with a few sprinkles while missionaries were at their post, but come down hard when most of us were under shelter.
Interesting visitors came this week; one couple from Germany who live just a few blocks from where I, Joachim, grew up. It was a good visit and the Gospel was mentioned, but not well received at that time. That is OK, maybe a seed will sprout when nurished by others.
The other couple was from Baja, CA or Mexico, the Ed Christensen's. They now live in Mexico, a little town, and are friends of the Simpsons living in Bigfork, MT. Soooo, we have developed new friends while here at Martin's Cove. Maybe Mexico is a good place to be during the cold winter months.
We had lots of Trek-ers from various stakes and wards with another 1200 coming today. It is a joy to address them at the various post locations, tell them pioneer stories, and just mingle. The Church will be in good hands when these young people take over the reign.
The 24th celebration was great here at the Missionary Village, but it was a "bust" at the local park and was moved to the stake center in Casper. While it rained here for a few minutes, it was a deluge there in Casper and all the revelers got soaked. Refuge was found in the cultural hall at the stake center where the program continued.
For the first time we had a cougar (Mountain Lion) chase an Antelope through the visitor center area on Monday. As we saw it, the Antelope was just a little faster. It is unusual for a cougar to come this close to the ranch area during the day. Either he was hungry or just not feeling well.
The Restored Gospel is still true. We have a living Prophet at the head, Thomas S. Monson, who the Lord will inspire in leading His people. It is a great day in Wyoming.
July 31We have been overwhelmed with trek-ers this last week. Sometime we don't know if we are coming or going. However, it is great to see the various stakes or wards come with their youth and have great experiences. Some units bless us (the missionaries) with their leftover parishables which we enjoy for lunch.
We had a good day when we went to Casper for our P-Day. We found a business to sell us various pump parts. Pumps that are used here on the ranch and parts are hard to come by. But we found a distributor who would go to the trouble of finding parts for us. Now we have to wait until they get here and then we can repair some pumps and piping before going home in October.
Wildfires are burning close to the ranch. We thought that they had been extinguished, but the high winds and dry air started them up again. At night we see the glow of the fires against the night sky.
We can't believe that July is coming to an end. It seems just yesterday that we celebrated the fourth and Canada Day.
The missionaries are watching each other when we work at our assigned duties. It is so easy to get dehydrated when the body does not get enough water. We provide 5 gallon coolers at strategic places for the trek-ers to fill their water bottles. There is a good well at HandCart Parking, but some trek-er youngsters try to outdo each other when pumping and that causes sand to be brought up with the water. Not much sand, but enough to see it at the bottom of their coolers. A steady, rythmic pumping action will alleviate the sand problem.

Monday, July 23, 2012

Jul 23
I am in the pavilion and a Nursemaid Antelope is outside the window with five of her charges for the day.  We see them as they train the little ones in hiding, running, watching out for danger, and taking them to good eating spots.
The trek-ers last week left us with large amounts of food that they could not take home.  There was sufficient chili for 30 couples, pulled pork sandwiches, bags of potato chips, all types of condiments.  It is a struggle for some to stay at their desired weight.
After last night's rain (abt. 20 minutes) the air is clear and hopefully it subdued the fires to the east of us.  It is off to Casper this morning to do the shopping at Sam's, WalMart and Smith.  We can't miss the second hand stores for neat things.  Have to be back by 1 PM to start our shift until 7 PM.  Maybe there will be someone who needs just the two of us to make a change in their life.
Have a great day. JAG

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Jul 22
Wonders of all wonders; the internet is accessable tonight. After a great potluck dinner today, and my poppyseed cakes receiving accolades, we had an evening of Broadway show tunes sung by Dean Lorimer, accompanied by his wife. It was a great evening, the kind of music that is kind to the ears and mind. At one time, to give Dean a break, the audience sang Do Re Me from "Sound of Music". I will be singing "If I were a Rich Man" most of the night.
Lightening has struck and the prairie south east of us is on fire. The strong winds do not help at all to control the blaze. The highlands of Wyoming get very little moisture, the clouds come over us, but will not let lose of precious sprinkles.
Bernice and I were Ephraim Hanks and Thisbe for the Declo 1st ward Friday evening. While the ward was sitting around the propane fireplace they asked their bishop if he would perform the Shoshone raindance. He did and within a few minutes some sprinkles fell, not enough to make any difference. While we were performing our skit he did the raindance again and this time we got wet enough to cool us off.
On the way home tonight from the homestead we stopped to watch a rattlesnake by the side of our road. It had seven nice buttons and it went off through the sagebrush to find supper. I did not have my snake stick in the car and didn't want to just pick it up by the middle. Good choice.
Wow, the rain just started and I am on my bicycle with my Sunday clothes.  I will have to wait this out.  Every little bit of rain that falls here is well worth and extra wash for a white shirt and slacks.  We found out that Wyoming is the capitol of music with La-Re-Me being just east of here by three hours.
Talk to you all soon. JAG

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Sorry about the delays:  The Internet is very sporadic on the highlands of Wyoming.
Jul 11
Last Friday was our Preparation day and we went to Casper, as usual, and had lunch at KFC where we met a missionary couple. It had been a long time since I had a piece of KFC chicken. After that we went to PETCO and bought a seven pound bag of crushed English Walnuts. They are to go into needle bags for weight. On top of that, they will not dull needle points. We then went to Sam's Club for guest shopping, to WalMart for a couple of lawn chairs (since we left ours home), fill up with gas, then on to Smith's Food Center, the used Hostess bread store, and then for the 70 mile trip to our "box" at Missionary Village.
Saturday we had a call from Joseph Harris and they were going to stop by on Sunday while on the way home to Salt Lake City. They had been to Loveland visiting her folks. Sunday came and after the block we sat the table in the "barn" for our expected guests. This is the only time that we sat as the only couple at a table and when the random numbers were called, we were the first ones to go and fill our plates. All the missionaries had a good laugh about that. The kids did not show, but we called them in late afternoon and they were already by Evanston, WY and did not have time for a stop. Martin's Cove is about 120 miles round trip out of the way.
Monday we were again at the visitor center with lots of people wanting to learn about this place. We then had a family who were direct decendents of Levi Savage, what a privilege. The McBride's were also represented by family. Bernice's cousin and his wife, Carol, came by and she is related to Henry J. Newman and his wife Maria Louisa Penn of the Hunt Freight Wagon Company. Every day some individuals come by who are related in some way to pioneers of the Willie, Martin, Hunt or Hodgett companies.
Bernice and I are getting real good at telling the stories we are asked (by the travelers) to tell. We get to visit with many young and older people, from all walks of life, who come here to experience in a small way what the pioneers went through. We find that some come here ill prepared for the rigors of trail travel. Many fall by the wayside of heat exhaustion and their own medical people have their hands full with them. Several in the last weeks had to have IV's administered on the trek which is difficult at best and requires others of their trek group to aid and assist. Some are very serious situations. In fact we have had heart attacks and have also had two death's on the trail.
In the last few days we have had clouds building up during the afternoon, but none let go of any moisture for us. Casper had sufficient rain to cause flooding, we are in a drought situation.
Jul 17Just returned from Idaho Falls last evening after attending the funeral for Leora Anderson Bratt, my friend for many years (adopted grand mother). Funerals are a time when families get together who have not seen each other for a while. Thus was the case here.
One of our daughters (Nancy I.F.) with two of her boys (Nick and Seth) came to visit on the 11th July and they/we had a good time doing some trek-ing and Nick helped me with a broken pitcher pump at one of the posts. The pump and the lift pipe had to be repaired and we worked until 12:30 AM so that trek-ers could fill up their water jugs for their hike to Martin's Cove in the morning. That post supplies water for as many as 800 people per day. Water is a must before we feel comfortable to let people make the hike into the cove on hot days. A body gets dehydrated rapidly at this altitude and lack of humidity. While they were here, we went to the Pathfinder Dam to see the magnificent display of millions of gallons of water coming through the turbine shute. We counted twelve Pelicans and some of them were as close to the maelstrom as possible to pick up bits of fish that came through the turbines. We watched as several Pelicans attacked a seagul that ventured too close to their feeding grounds. The seagul got away, but it was a close one for the seagul.
Friday noon we left for Idaho Falls and as we climbed out of Jackson 1 1/2 inches of snow and hail made driving interesting. A couple of accidents involving motorcycles caused a back-up in Jackson and it took almost and hour to get through there. However, the rain that followed as we decended into Victor was very welcome. We had not seen rain of that magnitude for some time. The windshield wipers had a difficult time keeping the glass clear.
Today, Tuesday, we were attending the Veil Crossing Bridge Post and had several family groups with their little children who stopped by for us to tell them a story or two. While one of the families was stopped by our post a three ft. Bull snake came by on her way to her hunting ground.
She was a beautiful specimen and she came by a couple of times to show off her markings. About noon a small group of blackbirds shows up and they strut back and forth looking for a handout. It is so interesting how they approach a morsel within just a few feet from us. They hunker down, almost a crawl, grab the piece of bread or apple and hop a few feet away to taste their treat. Some fly off to take the food away and then come back for another free meal.
Also we had a magnifiscent four point mule buck come by our little hut. People don't seem to bother any of the wildlife here. This buck and another live on the little island just down from the Veil Crossing Bridge. Antelopes are a daily show with their little ones as they play in the shallows of the Sweetwater River. The ranch abounds with rabbits even tho we hear coyotes most of the night and morning hours.
All is well at Martin's Cove Historic Site.
Jul 21
So many women had lost their husbands, had sick husbands and children. Yet, there faith and inward strength brought them to the Valley. This women's pull is to honor all pioneer women and their dedication to the Gospel and foremost the New and Everlasting Covenant which was available to them in the Endowment House in Salt Lake City. This little family accomplished so much amid shed tears by those of us who prayed them up the hill. Two little girls and a sore kneed grandmother. Angels were helping them.
Also we had two trek groups come and cross the Sweetwater. One group had the Aaronic Priesthood carry the women across. The young man who carried the Bishops wife fell and dropped her into the swift flowing current. I am sure that it was unintentional, but that also happened when four young men carried many across in minus ten degree weather and blowing snow, November fourth 1856.
Today I was working on a water truck centrifugal pump which we better not tear down until all the trek-ers have left for the season. It will take several days to rebuilt this pump after we get the right spare parts. We use this truck to spray the gravel roads and camp sites so that the dust is manageable. After the middle of August the trek-ers will slow down since school starts for many.
Time goes by so fast that we lose track of "what day is this?" The rain clouds still go around Martin's Cove and the heat is oppressive, just wears a body out.  We still have to bake a cake for tomorrow's potluck.
We will do our level best to represent our Stake here. Have a great day,
Your Martin's Cove Missionaries
A very busy schedule was had for the last four days. While we were stationed at the "Foot Bridge" a small family group came with their covered hand cart. They had already covered about five miles and were now going to cross the river in commemoration of the crossing on November 4th, 1856. That done, we thought that they would now return to the "homestead" by way of the sand trail. Grandmother had two bad knees and the grand children were abt. : girl 11 and 6, boy 8 or 9, and their decision was to do the steep women's pull. As Priesthood we could not help them, but we could stand on the sides at the top and watch, take pictures, no cheering, just pray that the women are up to it.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Jun 30
It has been a very busy few days.  This evening the Canadians are treating us to a great dinner to celebrate Canada Day.  It is actually tomorrow, but that would not sit well to have that celebration on the Sabbath.  Then on the fourth we have the typical Independence Day Hurrah and then in the evening the fireworks on the lake in Alcova.  We do have a fireban, but we don't know if that includes the lake.
The sprinklers are all done and just the sod is missing.
During this time we went to the Alcova Dam and watched as the Pelicans made their approaches into the spillway churning waters.  Those birds are so professional in their flying skills.  Their wingspan was easy five feet.
During the the time that we were Camp Hoasts here at Ranch 66 we helped teach the visitors, and there were lots of them camping in tents or travel trailers,  the fine art of square dancing.  It was quite a sight with fifty percent being small children.  The main thing is that everyone had fun for the three days that we danced here at the Missionary Village.  Ephraim Hanks came to tell his story to all who wanted to hear it.
We also had another angry rattlesnake under one of the camp trailers and it was removed to the other side of the fence.  We are sure to check every day under the motorhomes and trailers since the snakes like to lay next to the warm tires during the night.
President Lorimer from the Riverton Stake came to give us a fireside about the process of creating a visitor center, walking trails, and bridges across the Sweetwater River.  There is a Veil Bridge to commemorate the Rescue and a footbridge at the water crossing site so no-one has to go through the water again.
We are the recipients of smoke and dust frfom the fires in Utah and Colorado.  At time we can not see the mountains which are not that far away.  A little wind does help to thin out the smoke, but it is mostly a small gale when it does blow.
Last evening we had a water mellon bash under the few trees that are here and most of the missionaries were able to come, sit, and swap stories of other missions served.  It was a good time until the weather turned into a dry thunderstorm.
This afternoon Bernice and I will serve at the visitor center (VC) which covers the VC, the Blacksmith Shop, The Simones Store (Fort), the Prairie Park and the Martin's Cove welcome log cabin.  Sometimes visitors just stop by to use the facilities which are the cleanest this side of New York and Los Angeles.
We wish all a great fourth of July and may you have a safe celebration.  Solong, Shalom, L'chaim, until next time.
Much later:
We had a wonderful day at the visitor center.  Lots of young children came to the blacksmith shop and I made Prairie diamonds for them.  The custom made kind.  No-one came to the Fort while I was on watch, but they sure made up for it at the blacksmith shop.
We were home, in our box, by 7:15PM and finished the cupcakes.  Then off to the Canadian Day celebration at the pavilion.  We had a wonderful time and the food was outstanding.  We even had Canadian water to drink.  Now it is time to call it a day.
Jul 1
Closing out the fast was another too much food, too many choices affair.  Since we celebrated Canada day yesterday, a day early, it just spilled over into today.
We had an overflowing crowd in our three hour block and they came from all over the US of A.  Some came to be with parents or g. parents and some passed by on the highway and thought to stop.  All are welcome and the more the merrier.
This last week we had several General Authorities come and visit, talk to the trek-ers, and see for themselves the various posts here and at Sixth Crossing.  Everyone visiting here seems to be impressed with the Spirit and the friendliness and dedication of the MHHS (Mormon Handcart Historic Sites) Missionaries.
Surprisingly there were no serious injuries this last week.  One can not discount a few sprained ankles, or a few sore muscles. 
Jul 2
We had a great Home Evening with one of the couples being the host and facilitators.  When we first arrived here, a list was generated for all the Mondays while here at MHHS (Mormon Historic Handcart site).  We drew the short straw and ours will not come up until the first week in October. It was an interactive H.E. and that way all could participate.  The treats or refreshments were ice cream sandwiches, chocolate or vanilla.
That was such a nice way to finish an otherwise stressful day.
Bernice is continuing to work on the pamphlet inventory and that certainly is not an easy job.  Besides the pamphlets for this site, we have pamphlets for most historic sites in Wyoming.  She has to make sure that the brochures are ordered in a timely manner so that we do not have shortages.  Bernice also serves in the Museum and has sewn a couple of skirts to fit into the theme of pioneer costume.  With both of us sewing and computing, sometimes we even get to see the top of the motorhome table.
Jul 3
The third of July already, my, how the time does fly.  Yesterday I was working on a new lift station and while lifting out the effluent filter a couple of us almost fell into the open hole of the effluent storage.  We had a good laugh about it and then we covered up the hole.  The preventive maintenance at the homestead is a constant concern.  Up to seven hundred people stop by per day, including Trek-ers, and the hygene facilities have been at maximum capacity.  We are changing the pump system and leach fields so that the system can handle the daily requirements.  The Lord has blessed this historic site with people who have just the kind of expertise needed here at any given moment.
Today Bernice and I were stationed at the handcart parking post.  That is where trek-ers or anyone who pulls a handcart has to leave it before going into the Martin's Cove area.  Oscar was there as usual with his adopted trek group from Elko, Nevada.  Then several families came with their little children who enjoyed pulling and pushing their cart.  We were asked to tell stories which we did and the "pilgrams"  enjoyed them.  It ads so much to the Spirit of the trek to know what our pioneers went through and how they handled their dire situations.
Jul 4
What a blast we had today.  First, we were on restroom detail and 400 plus people do not leave clean restrooms.  I almost got tired cleaning up after the trek-ers.  Bernice had to call me to repentance several times.
Then at 7:00PM we got dressed into our pioneer garb to play Express Rider to a trek group.  When we arrived at their camp site, they were no where ready for any activity other than fixing their evening meal.  So we went back to the Missionary Village and joined the festivities there.
There were tables of various dishes, salads of all kinds, BBQ'd sausages, hamburgers, weeners.  Anything you wanted, was there.  Lots of water melon, ice cold to the touch and taste.  We made a three bean salad with onions slivers, vinegar, oil and sugar with seasonings.  We brought  some of it home and will have it tomorrow when we get off in the afternoon.  After  the meal we danced to the Golden Oldies and one of the brethren brought his Kariokee? machine to which we sang and danced.  A good time was held by all.  All this after a day of managing three trek groups and several family reunion groups.  Oh yes, Oscar has been around and adopted the trek group from Hurricane, Utah.
The air was very smokie for most of the day, but that did not lesson the sun doing its thing on my face.  Today I did not wear my hat, but then  the hat does very little to lesson the sun impact.
Time for a well deserved rest; good night.
Jul 5
Today we served in the visitor center which comprises the center, the blacksmith shop, the fort, the museum, and the humanitarian center.  We have two hour shifts adn walk from one to the other.  Sometimes we are very busy with explaining the various features of each place and the spirit that goes with each place.
The were some hotdogs and hamburger left from last night and after our shift we had lunch in the barn with all the trimmings.  Now it is rest time before we have to go and square dance with a group from Hurricane, Utah at 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Maybe it will cool down  some before the dance time.
It is later now and we just returned from dancing in the wind.  It was hard to hear the caller with the wind taking away the words and music.  Then we stopped at one of the "boxes" close to us in circle "C" and listened as an Elder and Sister told the story of Ephraim Hanks and Thisbe Reed.  It was in a little circle with their visiting family.
We started to go to the Pavilian and try to go on the Internet when we were stopped by a camper sister and invited to have a fresh scone with honey butter.  She insisted that we take more scones and share them with other missionaries.  We did share them with Eph. Hanks and Thisbee Reed.  They had not eaten since this morning and were overjoyed to have warm scones with honey butter.  There are lots of campers here for the next two days.  Most all of the camp sites are filled and the cars and vans are parked such that they protect the tents from the high winds.
Outside the wind and sky are threatening.  Clouds are billowing, the wind is starting to be cool, campers sit around their simulated camp fires with blankets on their laps.  Maybe the Lord will bless us with some much needed rain.  We haven't washed our car, so maybe it will not rain.
As missionaries left the camp this morning a rattle snake was coiled up along our road, being disturbed by the passing cars, and not wanting to waste her poison she just waited till all of us were gone before slithering along her way.
The restrooms at the "Womens Pull" attracted a rattle snake a couple of mornings ago and the "Bumble Bee" restroom cleaners made sure that this snake would not harm anyone.  So far we have been very fortunate with this type of incidents.  There are quite a few scrapes, ankle and knee soreness, some shoulders from putting them against the wheels, and sore tummies from eating too much and not drinking enough water.  The altitude and dryness of the prairie dehydrates a body much faster than one would suspect.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Jun 13We are good bathroom cleaners and we even have people comment on how clean our restrooms are. We have aspired to great things and we get to drive the "Bumblebee" which has an automatic transmission. We need to take a picture of the "Bumblebee."
Tuesday I worked on and finished rebuilding the irrigation pump and the piping associated with it. Bernice worked at inventorying the pamphlet supplies and making sure that more are on order and who to order them from. Sometimes suppliers go out of business without telling us.
Today, Wednesday, Bernice finished the inventory and helped at the humanitarian center where hundreds of blankets are sewn and tied. Lately tho we have been so busy with trek-ers that blankets have taken a back seat. I was the recipient of a "loom hat" because the wind was blowing so cold that my ears started to freeze. Loom hats are another item the humanitarian center makes.
The no-seeums are wicket now. Only a liberal dose of deets will keep them at bay. We don't spray deets on us, but wipe our clothes and try to avoid skin contact.
Our heart attack brother, Rigby Idaho, received two stints and wants to come back to finish his mission, but the doctors might decide against that. The sister with Colorado tick fever is on medication and should be alright; it was not Lime kind.
Today we also had a large school group (109) which was devided into small units so they could be small enough to talk to and explain everything. The children were very well behaved and seemed to have a good time.
Over 1000 trek-ers came today and the largest was from Kuna, Idaho which is close to Boise I am told.
We are now getting ready to go and help with the square dancing in the windy, sandy pasture.
Jun 15Yesterday was another hair raising day. Right in the morning another Elder was life flighted in to Casper with an apparent heart attack. The helicopter came from Casper as did two ambulances. As we stopped by the hospital to see Elder xxxxx we also wanted to see/visit Elder number two, but he was being treated and we could not see him. This morning we were informed that the 2nd Elder is back home and referred to a lung specialist because nothing was found to indicate a heart attack. Maybe it is the work we have to do here and the altitude with its thin air.
The square dancing was a lot of fun, but the wind pitched up a lot of sand and dust taking some of the enjoyment away. There were an estimated 200 young people dancing and all those who helped teach the youngsters. Several stakes were involved; Kuna, Vernal, Ashley, Duchesne, Linden 19th Ward, Payson South Ward. (Some stakes or wards are going home today after they wash their carts.) We devided them up into a row of ten couples and they were spread out over the pasture, but still able to hear the caller who is one of the Elders. Several couples had try-outs to be callers and that takes the pressure of all other couples.
There is very little wind today, as of yet, and we will serve at the handcart parking area. That is 1.8 miles from the cove and handcarts are not allowed by BLM rules. However, we can use what we call rickshaws to carry those who are unable to walk that distance and young strapping men from their units pull the rickshaws.
Jun 16Another beautiful day at the Cove. It started out a little cool with ice on the roof of the car, but it melted of as soon as the sun got to it. All tne trek-ers left today, but not without leaving food in our dining hall to be shared when we had our lunch today.
We had a scary moment yesterday, when a 9 year old little girl brought a baby rattle snake into camp. She carried it the right way, right behind the head. It gave all in camp a start until the situation was handled properly. Since the baby had no rattles the little girl assumed it to be harmless. A rattler will shed two or three time per year and add one button each time. This one had no buttons, but they are the most dangerous.
I am working on finishing the installation of sprinkler heads, but the ground is mostly rock and it is hard to dig the channels. We should be done by the end of shift on Monday and then just the sod needs to be layed.
Our internet is down again and with it my opportunity to update our blog.
This morning several antelope does came to show off their young fawns. It is a pleasure to watch them as they prance around with no apparent worries or thoughts of danger. We don't know how they communicate, but at a moment all fawns are gone, out of sight, and only the does are visible. The training session over, and all fawns are up and again having fun playing with their friends.
We are located a mile of gravel and washboard road (trail)off hwy 220 and washing the vehicle is almost a waste of time. The water is also very hard and leaves calcium spots on the paint and the windows. After two trips thru the"Ultimate" automatic car wash the car looked like new until we came home and had again washboarded the car. But we enjoyed the looks while they lasted.
Jun 17 Father's DayIt was a good Father's Day. The potluck was outstanding and we found out that tooth cleaning is no longer needed. With the wind as strong as it is, just open your mouth and your teeth are sand blasted in a second.
We had lots of visitors for our Sacrament Meeting and most stayed for the three hour block. The Martin's Cove Branch Choir sang today and it even sounded good.
Yesterday we had another youth baptism in the Sweetwater River. However, the water is so low that it would be difficult for an adult to be submerged.