Journal of Joy ~ The Pioneer Spirit! ~ September 15-16, 2010

The Pioneers Prayer Journey ~ Western Montana, USA

September 15, 2010, Wednesday ~ We met at Polson early Wednesday morning, traveling first south to Ravalli, then northwest to Plains. The photos include the Thompson River, Little Thompson River, Clark Fork River and Flathead River. After a brief stop in Plains where we shared lunch at Benji’s, a local’s favorite spot, enjoyed a Koi pond, and then we traveled up the Thompson River Road to the cabin, which has been in Katie Lou's family for over 60 years. The Thompson River runs smooth alongside the cabin providing easy fishing and boating with oars. As a city girl, my appreciation increased dramatically for Pioneer Women who hauled water daily, lived without electricity (including heat, light, and air-conditioning), cooked on wood stoves and washed clothes in cold rivers. Not to mention the lack of warm water for showers.

Our two-day prayer journey was filled with blessings of nature beyond measure including the Wild Turkeys which just happened to be crossing the road at the time we drove by. America Bald eagles soared above in various locations between Thompson Falls and Plains. We were surprised to see a mountain lion as we turned a corner on Thompson River Road. Within three leaps he was hidden in the shadow of the woods. Canadian Geese heralded the Thompson Falls Reservoir. After leaving Thompson Falls, we found the green meadows alongside the winding Clark Fork River were excellent grazing pastures for the Big Horn Sheep including rams, ewes and fluffy white lambs.

On the way to and from, Plains the lush green pastures along the roadside are filled with “Oreo Cows” which I had never seen before and I found to be rather hilarious. How can one not laugh when one sees an “Oreo Cow?” (Dark brown on both ends and white in the middle, like an Oreo cookie!)

My spirit and soul were blessed beyond words to be given this sacred journey by not only a native of the land, but one who is truly a Montana Pioneer Woman in the earthly and spiritual realm. Thank you so very much, Katie Lou Rosenow, my life has been eternally imprinted by your relentless courage and faithful strength.

For the Eternal Glory of YESHUA, our Messiah King, Priest, Shepherd and Lord!