A Beautiful Camp, A Beautiful People

Another exciting week here in Mongolia!

On our preparation day, we attended a cultural performance called Land of the Sky. It was a stunning showcase of Mongolia’s rich heritage, highlighting the diverse tribes, vibrant traditions, and fascinating history of this incredible country. We were captivated by the elaborate costumes, energetic dancing, unique traditional instruments, and the mesmerizing sounds of хөөмий—Mongolian throat singing!

P-day also included another haircut. It had been eight weeks—two more than my usual back home—so it was definitely time. Since the last one turned out fairly well, I decided to go back to the same stylist. Of course, we can't really communicate, so I just assumed she’d cut it the same way, figuring that my return visit meant I liked it. Well… she must have assumed I came back because it wasn’t short enough—because shorter is what I got! This is my surprised look when I saw it! 😳 Maybe it’s growing on me 

(pun intended)… I can’t decide. Haha!

Our next big adventure was Girl’s Camp! Due to some misunderstandings, Mongolia hasn’t held a Young Women’s camp in over 15 years. Since I’ve been to many many camps over the years while serving in Young Women, they asked me to help with the planning. I offered where I could—when translation wasn’t a barrier—but honestly, the local leaders didn’t need my help. They had a clear vision of what camp should be, and their love for the girls shone through as they prayed, prepared, and pulled off a beautiful camp that gave the girls opportunities to make new friends, enjoy nature, and build stronger testimonies.

The camp adventure began with getting all the girls and their gear loaded on 5 buses and then continued with getting the buses out of the very tight parking lot!

This is the bus driver getting out to inspect his options on getting out!

Tight squeeze!!

We attended two different camps, both held in scenic locations that allowed the girls to enjoy the beauty of creation. And of course, there were plenty of TIM (This Is Mongolia) moments that kept us laughing. The “resorts” where the camps were held were located about 45 minutes down a dirt road (and I use the word “road” loosely) we would never dream of driving on in the States. We were in a car behind the buses and were sure at one point they were going to tip over!

In another TIM moment, this was the ladder we were using to hang lights and decorations in the trees.....definitely wouldn't pass US safety standards but we got the job done and we are still in one piece!

We all arrived safely at the Gobi Resort

The accommodations were great!  Some of the girls stayed in cozy cabins, others in traditional gers, and some even in hotel-style rooms. J.D. and I were placed in what we jokingly called the “executive suite”: a good-sized room with a kitchenette, meeting table, king-size bed, couch, jacuzzi shower, and a fireplace! Next time, we’ll remember to bring our own towels, though!

In typical Mongolian fashion, the food was outstanding and abundant. It was prepared and served by resort staff and honestly felt fancier than any camp food I’ve ever had! On top of that, the stake leaders went above and beyond with extra snacks and treats.

These cute cupcakes were served after the missionary fireside in which President Kunz, 

the mission president, talked to the girls.  

Vibrant Fruit Cups

Cute Cake Pops

The girls had to prepare a few meals.  This was mutton soup, prepared by the girls.  

This spread was brought out as a mid afternoon snack!  Platters of meat, potatoes, carrots and other veggies.  The girls told us the hot black stones rubbed in your hands is for stress relief!

From arts and crafts to games, firesides, and a meaningful faith walk, the camp was a beautiful and uplifting experience for the girls.

One morning the girls hiked up the mountain to a beautiful little clearing.  Here they prepared their own breakfast, learned about water purification and how to make a fire.  We were surrounded by cows, but this particular one wouldn't leave us alone!  The girls loved him and he loved all the attention! 

J.D. was asked to be on a panel to answer questions the girls had about education.

The faith walk was a neat experience for the girls.  All of their pictures are above the temple.  The words say I am a beloved daughter of God.  

The huge bonfire was highlighted with a little fireworks show put on by the owners 

as a thank you for coming to their resort.  

The girls' talents, especially in dancing, shone through at the talent show.  Although there were other more modern dance performances, this one was a traditional Mongolian dance.  

The more we witness these kinds of efforts, the more we admire and love the Mongolian Saints—their courage, their faith, and their deep desire to build the Kingdom of God in their homeland. 

We’re grateful to be a small part of it.