Independence Day!

Today was suppose to be out first Sunday back to church but it got pushed back until the 19th due to rises in the corona virus.  Since, we got a little lazy on our Sacrament service, the past two Sundays we've incorporated a conference talk.  I've personally enjoyed it.

As I sit out on the back porch in my swing, it's a true July summer day-- hot and humid.  Thank goodness for shade and fans. :)

This past week was to be filled with rain that never happened.  Typical.  My morning run/walks are getting hotter each morning.  Jarom runs at lunchtime and I don't know how he does it in this heat.  With Liam working landscaping the heat is making those days seem even longer.

Tipton started working his first official job.  He works for Crumbl, a gourmet cookie franchise that Jim and Celeste opened here in Chattanooga.  The cookies are delish and has been a big hit in the area.  I let him drive sometimes and it makes my stomach turn.  On  Graysville rd the lanes are a little skinnier than other areas and he rides so close to the white line and many places there is no curb, just a ditch.  It's a tense ride.

Friday the older boys (Liam and Tipton) went kayaking down the Hiwassee with Celeste family while Jarom, me and the younger boys went out on the boat with Steve and Deseret.  It's never disappointing.

I managed to take just a few picture for the holiday. When you're really having fun pictures seem to never happen.  

It was quite a unique July 4th due to the pandemic.  We've been living our lives pretty close to normal as can be right now, but social gatherings and the virus are still issues.  This was our first BIG family gathering since probably February.  For the first time in a while, Ammon and his family were going to get to come down for the celebration before Seth left for his mission.  However, Seth got Covid-19 and they all had to go into 14 day quarantine.  It was disappointing.  Phil, also has been doing badly health wise.  He had been admitted to the hospital to run some test so that also prevented Phil, Gloria and Marney from attending.  In the end, we still had a great crowd but it was pretty much all Wards (Deseret's family and kids' families, Celeste family) and us.

The humor of it all is our old home, the new owners are party people and they shot off fireworks.  It was some giant ones!  We ended up in our old backyard to enjoy the celebration.

Our country this year has been in a very unusual state and through media, you start see people's true colors.  This seems to be the case whenever an election year is happening, though this may take the cake.  Despite all the hate and anger, differing opinions and the health safety of our people, I still am so grateful to be in this country.  It truly is a blessing to live in the United States and the wonderful opportunities.

Gold Bless America!