March 1st, 1804
Simon Clarkson
It is the night before we are leaving on our expedition through the unknown land of the west. Captain's Meriwether Lewis and William Clark picked me to join them on this mission because of my talent of making maps. I've been thinking a lot about what this journey is going to be like and it is kind of scary. I'm excited also but I can't help to not be scared. All I have heard about is giant volcanoes and seven foot beavers. I hope that we meet many Native American groups so that they can help us and guide us if we need help. But there is also the question of, are they going to be friendly? What if they don't understand what we are doing and think we are trying to harm them? I hope there is a way we will be able to communicate with them if they don't understand what we are saying. I'm also scared we might encounter harsh weather or terrible sickness that may wipe out our whole crew. If we make it through this journey I know it will be a huge jump in the expansion of our great nation. But most of all I just hope that all our crew will make it back safe to tell of all our explorations.
Simon
June 2nd, 1804
Today we saw the Missouri River for the first time. It is such a beautiful sight. The grass is green, the plants are healthy and bright, and animals are everywhere. Along the sides of the river there are huge prairies of grass, with herds of roaming buffalo. The river is fairly clean, shallow and deep in some parts, and sand bars periodically. I am excited to begin our journey down the river exploring all these parts of the river.
Simon