May 18, 1836

Today we travel beyond the Blue River, having crossed it yesterday with little mishap. The grasses are middling. We had a thunderstorm that left us all wet and miserable in the chill. I hope that it doesn't make anyone ill. We have heard that the cholera often kills many in the trains. There are several antelope on the prairies. Soon they say we will see buffalo. I have learned to ride carefully in the wagons and to help watch the children. A few days earlier, a small girl fell out of a wagon. Her legs were crushed by the heavy wheels rolling over her. More often I walk and look for wood. We have trouble finding the wood needed for a fire at night. I am still excited by this adventure although the hardships are like none I could anticipate. I am waiting to see the majestic mountains ahead.