Summertime

I'm knitting a lot right now- partly for a challenge on a knitting forum, and partly because I'm finally confident enough in my abilities to try harder things, like lace!
This is what lace looks like while it's in process:

 This is what the same lace shawl looks like after it is properly blocked:

It is challenging, but I am so proud of myself for knitting this!

In family news, Hyrum turned 8, and was baptised as a member of our church last Saturday.  We had all sorts of family over, and celebrated after the baptism with a picnic lunch.  I am so proud that Hyrum made this decision to follow Jesus.  He is growing up so quickly, and I pray that he will keep making decisions that will bring him happiness.

Here's a picture of Hyrum, with most of the birthday party guests, opening his presents:

He really is 8 years old now!

Gratitude List:
* I am especially grateful for the knowledge I have of God, and Jesus Christ, and for their plan for me.
* I have a wonderful family- both my own and my in-laws- who give their love and support to me.
* My husband is a good, strong man who cherishes me and loves our children.
* Our house is not flooded, although we have had record amounts of water this spring.
* We have plenty of food to eat, clothing to wear (just took another load of outgrown clothes to the donation center), and a lovely house that shelters us from the weather.
* There are homemade cookies in my kitchen, and breadsticks on the stove, cooling.
* It is summertime, and we have the time to relax from school and work a bit.
* Jared is home the rest of July.
* I have lots of yarn, and lots of ideas about what I'd like to make with it.
* I have good friends, and good neighbors, and an active and welcoming community.
* Today has been a good day.
* (i am also grateful that morgen is not yet a teenager. the moods she has- oh deliver me now!)