April 14, 1850

Dear Diary, 

Today was another long day on the Oregon Trail. We walked beside the horse because the wagon was too heavy to carry all 5 of us (In reality, my brother Finn and I kept fighting so our mom and dad made us walk). The more we walked, the more my feet began to ache. The soles of my shoes were beat, as was I.

This morning, there was a worry. One of the horses appeared to be sick. If it doesn't get better, I fear we won't have a way to pull our wagon which will leave us behind. My mother baked bread over the fire this morning. The smell of the dough swarmed through the air. It tasted like home. I miss home. 

Tonight we were to set refuge near a river. The water is fresh and cold to the touch, thank goodness. Some of the other families lost food when their wagons tipped crossing the river. I hope we don't meet the same fate. 

I feel brave though and excited for our new beginnings and the journey we will take along the way.

Best regards, 

Pioneer Self