A group of teenagers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Buchanan received a lesson in gratitude during a three-day visit in the northwest Georgia mountains. Participation required them to leave behind modern technology and adopt a pioneer lifestyle.

Two adults were assigned to each group and served as chaperones and parents for the makeshift pioneer families. The girls wore handmade dresses and bonnets, while the boys also imitated fashions from the pioneer period in hopes of capturing the feeling of a simpler time in history. The garments added to their ultimate mission that involved group members teaming up to perform a major task.

“They could take 17 pounds of items in a handcart they pushed during a 23-mile journey they took in about two and a half days at Fort Mountain, Ga. This is a rustic area, where they started out at one point, and ended at a different point,” explained church member Kris Tatum.

One teen participant called the experience tough, yet rewarding.

“It was one of the hardest things I had to do in my life, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” said Kimberly Hardin. “Not having technology was hard too, because we’re so used to it, but when you go out there, it makes you appreciative for what you have.”

She noted the girls had to also go without cosmetics. Meanwhile, cell phones, media players and laptop computers weren’t the only things missing from their temporary quarters either. They slept outdoors and ate wheat berries, granola and cooked by the open fire.

Though a revisit to history came with some adjustments, participants say they still enjoyed themselves, especially during the “ho down” they held to celebrate their successful journey through the mountains.

“This experience showed them the importance of team-building skills they displayed throughout the journey,” Tatum said.