Did you know that families are forever?

Its that time of year people. FAMILY  CAMPOUT!

Every year our whole family goes on a campout together. That is me, my parents, 4 siblings, their 4 spouses and all 12 nieces and nephews :) IT IS THE BEST. 

I am small in a big world, but grateful for a God that knows me

This year, the selected destination was Moab. If you know me, you know that Moab is Probably one of my top 5 favorite places in Utah. It is the perfect weekend get away. You can hike, bike, swim, shop, or just enjoy the never ending red rock. Truly, it is unlike any other place.

I am so grateful for parents who live the gospel of Jesus Christ. They truly show what it means to put God first and serve him with all might mind and strength. I am also grateful that they have worked so hard to keep their marriage strong by keeping the commandments and serving one another.

One of the highlights of this trip was the opportunity to go and ride on Slick Rock. Bikers come from all over the world to ride on this one of a kind surface. 

I'll be honest. The old me was very hesitant and no so much of a go getter, but at the conclusion of my mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I made the goal to go into life at full speed and not stop for anything. This camping trip gave me many opportunities to do just that.

In my mind, mountain biking wasn't that different than normal bike riding. How hard could it be? I decided not to ask questions and just go with the flow. To my surprise, it is WAY HARDER THAN IT LOOKS!!! Within the first 2 minutes of riding I had already attempted a "hill", crashed, ripped my pants open, and gashed my knee up. Luckily I had my gopro running the whole time ;)

I am grateful that I was able to at least attempt to be awesome and the rest of the ride was not too bad. Holy cow, it is a work out though! I admire those who are passionate about mountain biking, or just biking in general. Its hard stuff!

One of my awesome nephews

I learned that it is more important to face something uncomfortable and scary rather than run or hide from it. Sure, I got hurt, but it was an unforgettable memory that I will cherish forever. It created a story that me and my family will laugh at forever. Isn't that what is important?

Awesome niece taking in the view <3

Another highlight was getting to go on one of my favorite hikes in Moab. Mill creek. It is just a small little hike to a swimming hole and waterfall. Personally, I find the most joy while spending the day in a natural swimming pool :D

One of the sweetest moments I have captured. My brother teaching his oldest daughter about God's creations and how much he loves her. 

Moab is always rad. I really love it. What I love more though, is the fact that I get to go and do these fun things with my family. It is during those times spent together that I get to grow closer to each of them and learn from their experiences. God put us in families because he loves us and through our families we can come to know him better than in any other way. After all, God is our Father. I also find so much happiness in knowing that my family will not be separated at death. Heavenly Father's plan is designed to keep us together throughout eternity. That to me, is the sweetest gift.

*Note to all. Be spontaneous. Go on adventures. But do not let your spontaneous steps take you away from what matters most. God. and your Family.*

xoxo

Morgan