Phoebe's Graduation

We've had some gorgeous days over here.

I was trying to capture this field of Butterweed (Packera glabella). It was kind of pretty seeing this field full of it. Other fields had a few yellow sprouts popping up sporadically, but this field across the road from us was absolutely packed. 

Turns out it is bad for animals and humans to consume, causing liver problems. So don't eat it. It's great for pollinators though.

Then the farmers came and those yellows fields were gone in no time. 

From our house you could see up to 7 or 8 tractors in the fields all around us as all the different farming families planted.

Jonathan and Harrison making chocolate chip cookies.

The boys went to the Kiamichi Preaching Gathering.

Jon kept a good eye on everyone and no one was injured. You never know what'll happen when a bunch of boys gather for a week out in the wilderness.

Harrison and Silas preached in the contest and did really well.

Amos and Lanaya Elizabeth took a trip to Oregon for Amos' birthday. I believe they are in front of Multnomah Falls.

My parents arrived for Phoebe's graduation party. We had some time to kill, so we went to Hannibal. Dad bought us a new Keurig (since ours had just broken that morning), and we visited downtown Hannibal and walked down by the river. 

We also shared a piece of mint fudge from Clemen's General Store. You won't regret a pass through that store.

And finally Phoebe's party came. 

This was my first time doing a Walmart cake, and I don't regret it. Phoebe designed it, my dad picked it up, and it tasted pretty good too. And we didn't have a ton left over, which I was glad of!

The boys and my parents were a big help! Phillip did the slide show (which isn't as easy as you'd think if your devices won't connect to the TV). Jonathan helped fix the slideshow problem. Harrison and my parents helped in the kitchen and with decorating. Absolutely couldn't have done it without all of them!

Phoebe and Ainsley will be rooming together in Linn, MO starting in August. I'm thankful for their friendship!

Thanks for taking the pictures, Bryn!

Then the very next day the church had a Rededication Service. Everyone waited outside and walked in together to see the newly renovated auditorium. A lot of work went into the renovation. We met downstairs in the basement for almost 6 months while it was redone. New flooring, pews redone, new paint, new lighting, new electrical stuff.... I don't even know what all was redone, but it looks totally different and so beautiful! The stained glass windows really stand out now, and we have the original wood floors back.

Phillip spoke briefly and presented a plaque to Bob Moore who donated a lot of time and skill. He headed up the building committee, did the electrical and lighting, and was the de facto contractor.

 It was a lovely service all around.