The Miracles On Our Street

Christmas Morning

2010-01-12T05:35:00.000-07:00

This is what James and I found waiting for us on the couch on Christmas morning.
If you will notice the windows directly behind are yet dark.
We asked the kids to not set alarms before 6am, if they could stand it.
This picture was taken at 6 oclock sharp!

The Annual Tree Hunting Adventure!

2010-01-03T17:50:00.001-07:00

THE ANNUAL TREE HUNT HAPPENED, A WEEK LATE, BUT IT HAPPENED!

Some of the regulars weren't in town and we missed them-
but we were very excited when Kimberly- James first cousin- and her husband and kiddos joined the hunt.

Anna was especially happy to have another Anna who is just her age.

Once we parked and Grandpa Frankman shuttled us in to the tree hunt area, most of us were frozen solid.

Hence, we played in the snow for a bit, and took an early leave heading back to the cabin for hot chocolate and a warm fire.

The tree hunters that remained behind didn't take long to follow,

the sun was out, but none the less it was bitter cold!

So Grateful

2009-11-23T22:49:00.005-07:00

With Thanksgiving only days away thoughts of food, cooking turkey, pies and potatoes fill our minds. We wonder how we can get everything done so we can just relax and enjoy some family time. Wonder, worry, wonder, worry,wonder, worry - I can't help but wonder if that is the point of such a holiday as Thanksgiving. I think not!
In my attempt to curb our thoughts to gratitude, I instructed our family at dinner that we would all get to share 10 things we are thankful for before dinner was over. The responses started with food, houses, candy, and many more material items, but quickly turned to a more sacred nature. Our faith, our world, each other!
As we look back to a year ago we have happy memories of a mini Gutierrez reunion with Thanksgiving at our house. Tree hunting the day after with part of the Frankman clan. Our extensive adoption search in full swing. We had no idea that within weeks our Anna would join the family.
Just last week as James and I chatted on our way to sleepy land we mentioned how nice it was that I hadn't cried about missing our "baby" in almost a year. Nice is an understatement. The year has been filled with countless miracles. Thinking of it always brings huge tears to my eyes, tears of heartache for Rachel Mommy that she does not get to have daily contact with our shared daughter and tears of gratitude that Anna is home....

I didn't get this posted the day I started it, but I will continue now- Thanksgiving night.
Since this post I had yet another chance to visit with Rachel Mommy, and was again reminded of our deep love for her. We chuckled about our adoption journey- the ups and downs and the blessing it has been to allow us in to one another's worlds. We shared our gratitude with one another that although the legal road has been long, our little Anna has been completely sheltered from all of that, and is completely oblivious! She knows that the judge has some papers to sign, but figure that is his issue=) Her gratitude Turkey at school stated that she was grateful for..."Being adopted". In her little heart the papers are signed and all is complete, our hearts are there as well. However, as adults we (Rachel, James and myself) are anxious for the legal paperwork to follow suit.

Since we have started our Anna adoption we have been fortunate to speak to several new groups of prospective adoptive families. We were able to share part of journey with them and answer questions they might have about the process. This last class I made up some collages. I'll post a few here just for fun.

I hope that your day of Thanks brought such sweet memories and moments to the top of your mind. We are grateful beyond expression for especially the "Anna miracles" we have witnessed first hand since last Thanksgiving!

"Spooooooky Barn"

2009-11-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T20:27:00.000-07:00

8 Year Old Boy Has to Redo Homework!

2009-10-30T04:18:00.001-06:00

It is reported that an 8 year old boy from Pocatello, Idaho attempted to turn in the above assignment as homework. When it left his home that morning his mother states it was in one piece, in fact not even wrinkled. According to this handsome little tike he placed it in his back pack as directed by his mother. He unfortunately was unable to find room in the front pocket, so he cleverly opened his lunch pail and placed it inside. On most days this would have worked out very well. This fateful day however, was not a normal day for this young lad. You see he had also been in quite a hurry when packing his lunch, and was able to allude his mothers watchful eyes, and place his homemade roll with turkey in the pale without a baggie- a time saving tactic he had tried in the past to no avail. He also knew that a fruit was one of the required lunch items, and decided that a peach half left over from breakfast could also be placed in the pail minus the baggie. From the end result pictured above it appears that the veggie must have been protected and consumed, but that is about all. You see, by lunch time the rest of the lunch including the homework was covered in peach juice from what appears to have been a rocky ride to school. The lunch box arrived home with not just the mashed lunch, but some garbage from the lunch room-note the smuckers sack-not part of the original lunch. The 2nd graders teacher reports she had to ask for the assignment to be redone as she was not able to read the shredded, sticky homework. The days events were of absolutely no concern to this little man. He simply stated "I have two homework's tonight, my teacher couldn't dry mine out." This was the clue that led his mother to discover the above story. His parents are said to have been laughing privately for days at just how cute an 8 year old boy can be!

Pumpkins

2009-10-30T03:45:00.000-06:00

Each year on the Monday night before Halloween we practice our pumpkin carving skills. I have to say it is getting to be much easier each year. After nearly 14 years of the tradition, I believe we are getting the hang of it. We even grew two of our four pumpkins this year.

Back to School!

2009-09-02T15:58:00.000-06:00

It is a new school year and we are all excited! (Alright so I am still adjusting but, I'll get there.)
Anna started 1st grade with Mrs. Johnson. She is fabulous.
Issac has Mrs. Evans, he says she is the best teacher ever.
Savannah and AJ both moved up to the middle school so they have way to many teachers to mention. I do need to mention that one of Savannah's teacher could be my baby brother or even perhaps my child I had when I was oh so young. He looks so young, too young to be teaching teenagers. However, she really thinks he is great. Everyone is riding the bus to and from school. I realize it has only been a week and a half but we have 100% bus attendance- no one has missed the bus yet. We are doing so much better than last year already. AJ discovered that he can work in the lunch room and get a free lunch, he loves not having to pack or pay. Savannah is on the list too, but only as a backup and noone has backed out yet. Call me lazy, but I think I'd just pack a lunch. All they have to do is choose a veggie and a fruit(pre portioned by me) and make a sandwich.
I didn't get a picture of AJ on the first day because he rode the bus with Josh, while everyone else wanted a first day delivery.

all by myself

2009-07-28T23:42:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Summer Nights

2009-07-27T21:54:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

We put together a new toy this evening. Now we just need 5 more so we don't have to take turns!

A Hike for 14

2009-07-06T13:54:00.001-06:00

If you look closely you will notice the red flag background is actually radishes. Grandpa Frankman had an entire grocery sack completely full of radishes. We all just laughed, as this is only a fraction of the radishes he has growing this year! James remembers years when he grew wheel barrows completely full of cabbages. He loves his gardens!

With a yummy breakfast of waffles and breakfast burritos, we were ready to take a hiking adventure. James and I plus our four kiddos, Chris and Brian and 4 of their boys, plus Vanessa and Cameron all headed out for a little hike. It was so fun! About three miles in(give or take a mile) the trail crossed the creek and it wasn't long before the boys were wearing impromptu speedos- skivs- and holding contests to see who could stay in the freezing could water longest! The girls just took of their shoes and wet their toes. It was way to cold for them!

Independence Day Fun!

2009-07-06T13:32:00.000-06:00

We played and played this past weekend. Hikes, swimming, fireworks, food, and framily. We took probably 500 pictures, as soon as I can get them transferred off AJ's computer and on to mine, I'll post them here=)

Surrounded By Amazing Men

2009-06-17T07:56:00.003-06:00

It seems that the news is full of stories about men who perform far below their potential. In fact I thinks society as a whole has given men an out, so to speak. You often hear, "oh he's just a guy he can't help it".
Recently we had the choice experience of visiting with Anna's Birth mom. Or should I say, she came to visit us. During her visit we had many great confidential conversations, but one topic of discussion keeps popping up in my thoughts. I am sure I am okay with sharing a bit of our discussion. She was very impressed with the calibre of men in our world. You see,like many women in our world she has met some less then savory individuals masquerading as "men".
While looking for a family for Anna she wanted a guarantee that Anna would be surrounded by good men, but first she had to believe that they even exist. Over the past six months she has witnessed the beauty of a kind, loving daddy and husband and great brothers. During her visit she got to meet, Grandpas and Uncles. Her current thought that all men are "scary", has been altered. She could not be surrounded by our great men and still think that way. They have played a vital part in our Anna miracle and for that I am truly grateful!
No they are not perfect, I'm sure we all realize that,no one is. They do however, have the goal of becoming that way. Their daily actions reflect that, and all within their loving care are blessed by it.
More and more I am grateful beyond explanation for our good men!

This is a very sweet video we just saw. I think it matches this theme.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhqRMP9m

Vanessa, Cameron, and their new Family

2009-06-16T17:52:00.000-06:00

Vanessa and Cameron came over to visit and brought their newest family members. Jacob wanted to take a look at them so Vanessa created this little collage. Enjoy.

A Dragon and Four Tigers

2009-06-16T12:07:00.002-06:00

If you haven't been to our house lately you will not have seen my latest "brag wall" postings. When grades arrived, we had much to celebrate. All of the Kiddos have put great effort into school. Yeah for them, and fun for us as parents. James was also in school this semester as he works towards his masters. He got his grades a few weeks back as well, but never mentioned that he got another A+ . He says "it is embarrassing,they only give those out in Kindergarten." I happened to see it as I retrieved a paper from the printer. I snapped a picture of it much to his dismay. I think such great efforts should be celebrated, and even bragged about just a little!
Great work Students!!!

Summer has Begun!!!

2009-06-14T19:13:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Wonder Woman

2009-05-27T19:10:00.000-06:00

It's a wonder we were able to part with these furry little creatures. The last went today.
Everyone who has had puppies warned us against naming them.
They said you get too attached. Well, all eight of ours had names-Green Leaf, Bacon, Sausage, Ms.Playful, Wonder Woman, Lucky, No Collar, and Spot. Each came with cute little personality quirks.
We have to admit Savannah's connection with Wonder Woman was almost enough to push us into two dogs.
James gained his resistance from a co-worker who "fell" for that and is sorry now. His daughter is out of the house, and he is "stuck" with an extra dog. I was siding with Savannah **look how cute she is with her** until we came back from our weekend adventure to find two escaped puppies, a back yard littered with chewed up puppy toys, and my freshly planted flowers dug up and dried up.
We love our dog Daisy, and her pups were a sweet chapter in our lives... but for now, one dog is PERFECT!

2009-05-26T12:17:00.003-06:00

All morning the fish were biting. We think it was the night crawlers that Brian, Sam and AJ went hunting last night. They captured about 8 dozen, they looked like a ball made of worms-gross. Or it could have been Matthews luck. He loves fishing and always seem to catch the best fish. Maybe it was that the lake ice just melted last week and the fish are very hungry. Whatever the case, fishing season is off to a great start! We really missed Dave and Allyson though- sorry you guys had to move- fishing doesn't feel the same without Dave Fisherman I mean Frankman.

more fishing

2009-05-26T09:24:00.003-06:00

It appears that I can turn videos on Picasa, but not on blogger. Sorry you'll have to either turn your head or your screen.
Note to self- do not turn the camera on video mode, as you can not flip it back for posting...At least I can't. SORRY.

the fish

2009-05-26T09:08:00.002-06:00

Oops I'll try and turn it.

Great day to be a fisher, but not so great a day to be a fish!

2009-05-25T10:30:00.005-06:00

Matthew caught the first big fish of the day,
and pretty soon everyone wanted to fish.

This Looks Fun!

2009-05-19T14:09:00.002-06:00

Alright I saw this on one of James' cousins pages and it looks so very fun!
I think this bike company is quite brilliant to let us do the advertising for them.
You see, the only way to enter the drawing for this neat bike is for you to post
their link on your page.
Smart and a bit sneaky,but I'm willing to do it "just in case" we are the lucky winners.
Image the fun! You are welcome to try it as well,
as long as we get to take a spin if you win!

Playful Puppies

2009-05-05T22:27:00.001-06:00

Our registered pointing Lab gave us a bonus litter. We planned to breed her within the year, but she couldn't wait. With that being said, we are unsure of who daddy is. The two probables are a pure bred English Setter and a pure bred Lab. So either way we think they should be great dogs. Daisy points as per her great heritage, and several of the pups have already shown that they have inherited that trait. All eight of the pups are playful and healthy. They have been loved and played with all along and each have developed loving personalities. They will be six weeks next Tuesday and should be about ready to go to their new homes.

The Frankman Rodeo

2009-04-27T10:09:00.000-06:00

So much fun with our Cousins!

Four Kids Who Think They Should Own Horses!

2009-04-26T23:08:00.007-06:00

Isaac seems to have no fear of horses.
He and the horses seemed to get along great.

AJ came right away to help get the horses ready to ride.
He had a great time but secretly wished Sam and Cameron
had an interest in riding as well.

Savannah finally got to try out her riding boots
(we bought them over a year ago on clearance)
and decided they are pretty cute after all! She had so much fun!
She stayed right up to the time the saddles were hung back up.

Anna has been waiting to ride a horse "my whole life" she says.
It was every bit as fun as she imagined.
The only thing that she could have been
better was if we could have taken one home with us.

Yet another fun day with family!
Allyson just finished her Masters and is officially done with school.
Yeah for her, she is an amazing lady, and such a fun aunt!
She invited all of us to her parents to celebrate her graduation and Baby Max turning ONE!
James ended up having to stay home to fix an emergency plumbing issue at our tri-plex , but the kids and I went anyhow.
As you can see above, we had a fabulous time.
The White Family is so very kind to show us such great hospitality!
Another great example of the kind of family we want to grow up to be.
Thank You, Thank you for a fun filled day at the White House.

Spring at the Frankman Home

2009-04-24T21:14:00.003-06:00

We think they are the cutest kids on earth!

Bird Bath

2009-04-12T08:44:00.000-06:00

We were happy to see the happy little birds bathing in our bird bath
this morning. Spring is here! Happy Easter to all!

Happy Pups with Happy Kids

2009-04-05T23:56:00.000-06:00

We sure are glad we have 5 more weeks with these cute little puppies!

Puppy love

2009-04-03T23:14:00.000-06:00

AJ wants to keep a puppy.
He has even volunteered to buy it's food and clean up all potty messes!
James is still not convinced.

Sweet Nap Time Sounds

2009-04-02T14:29:00.002-06:00

Happy little pups.

oops

2009-04-01T12:55:00.002-06:00

Well with my CNA background I decided to layer Daisy's welping box with layers of paper and then the lambs wool, paper, lambs wool and so on, so I could have a clean box by just takling a layer of paper and a layer of lambs wool. All I had to do was slide everyone to one side and then the other. Daisy did a super job of cleaning up after her self, but I just needed to do a little people level cleaning.---- Well now all the puppies have been crying for the last ten minutes. I think they are like the kids- they prefer a messy house=) OOPS, now I know!

8 is Perfect

2009-04-01T08:23:00.002-06:00

Daisy is maintaining her 8 little ones like a pro. I am pretty sure if I just had eight little ones, I would be not only stressed out, but a bit grumpy. She just lines them up, cleans up the potty messes, bathes them and feeds them while she's at it. What an amazing process to watch the mommy instincts kick in. We are all impressed around here.

the boys are ahead

2009-03-31T23:11:00.003-06:00

It's 11:10 and the boys are ahead- 4 boys and 3 girls. We may have our own set of octuplets. Daisy is a very proud mommy.
Just kidding before I could post this baby girl number 8 has arrived. So it's a tie!

DOG PILE

2009-03-31T22:19:00.001-06:00

Now we really get what is meant by dog pile. The really do climb right on top of each other in a pile and nap. It is really sweet.

Noisy little pups

2009-03-31T22:18:00.005-06:00

AJ Is holding this little pup in his hands. Poor little guy his is just minutes old. He just wants his MOM! The thing on his tummy is the rest of the cord- Yuck - Daisy actually cleaned it up after the picture, so you don't even know it was once there unless you look hard.

Here's a little video clip of them. The sound so cute!

silly boys

2009-03-27T21:24:00.001-06:00

The boys don't need sleds when they have cousins and friends to dog pile on! I call it crazy, they call it crazy fun!

Cabin fun

2009-03-23T17:13:00.005-06:00

Anna thinks Max is a pretty great toy! She loved and loved on him.

We hiked the last little bit to the cabin. They had plowed most of the road but the last bit wasn't done yet.

Dave and Max in the girls snow fort! BRRR.

Spring

2009-03-17T21:02:00.000-06:00

Spring on the trampoline! Check out the hair.

AJ and buddies

2009-02-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

Two Sleepy Girls

2009-02-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

"Castle Cake"

2009-02-09T22:13:00.001-07:00

Anna ,Savannah and I spent the early afternoon making sure Anna's cake was just how she planned it. We used several pounds of powdered sugar for the frosting, 2 bottles of pink sprinkles, one bottle of purple sprinkles, sugar cones, pink marshmallows, a candy bar for the door, and five princess figurines before the masterpiece was ready. She loved it, and so we all did as well.

Anna is SIX!

2009-02-09T22:07:00.000-07:00

We started Anna's Birthday early with a family party Saturday evening. Anna soaked up every minute of having the eyes, ears and hearts of her large new family directed at her. The middle picture of her, is her walking around the room allowing each guest to feel just how soft her new hoodie lining is. All were very receptive and responded with ooo's and aaa's. She said the best part was "ALL THE PRESENTS". From the matching Valentines socks for she and Savannah to the Candy Land coloring book(she and I had just played Candy Land for her first time Friday morning- so she was way excited to recognize it), each gift is a treasure to her. We are so very thankful to have such amazing families that combine to make life so beautiful for our little growing family!

Sunny San Diego

2009-02-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

The week between Christmas and New years we spent some time in San Diego.
It was really fun to see My Grandma, Uncles, Aunts and cousins.
We also loved our trips to the beach, and wished for more time to soak up the rays!

Bewteen the Tooth Fairy and The Ortho Bills...

2009-02-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures on Tuesday evening. The boys have some big mouth news!
After over a year of Ortho appointments AJ's mouth
is ready for braces on the top. He chose black and silver rubber bands this time, but says in six
weeks when they change them he'll go with orange or green or maybe both. He is pleasantly surprised
that they aren't nearly as painful as everyone warned.
We'll see as time goes on, but I hope for him that is the case.
Issac lost one of his top front teeth but has three other teeth that are so wiggly they are
turning in all directions. His mouth looks like he just got in a fist fight, and LOST!

Weekend Fun

2009-02-01T22:05:00.002-07:00

James had Friday afternoon off so we took the opportunity to check out the fishing at Ririe. It wasn't to great at first but just before dark it picked up and then the excitement began.

Anna had never been ice fishing before, so I was very surprised how much she liked carrying around the Salmon after it was reeled in.

James took Isaac and a couple of his scouts fishing on Saturday. They did very well. When it was all said and done, he spent a good hour and a half at the sink cleaning all the fish for a yummy dinner. He even had enough he plans to smoke some. He learned to smoke a turkey after only two attempts at Thanksgiving. Now he seems to have a new love for smoking- meats of course, not tobacco.

Saturday evening we decided to hop in the hot tub. The trick is to get there and back in the frigid weather. It is on the deck---- but the 15 foot dash from the door to that particular part of the deck seems like a mile in the below freezing temperatures, even wrapped in towels or robes! It must be worth it though because all the kids went in again tonight after dinner. They are braver than I. The warm water is so nice, but I am not sure it is worth the 10 second frozen dash.

Anna loves the snow

2009-01-26T22:37:00.000-07:00

Our little California girl got her first taste
of snow Saturday.

She loved it and built a perfect snow man!

2009-01-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

Monday night fun with Grandpa and Grandma Frankman.
Dinner, and more of Anna's new favorite game, The Flour Game.

Let's start meeting the Family

2009-01-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening Grandpa and Grandma G.
came over to meet Anna and for cookies, Games.

Twister

2009-01-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

A quick game of twister before church was on the agenda this morning!

Anna

2009-01-07T17:25:00.002-07:00

James has a very tired arm, but a very happy heart!
After a game of chess, Anna couldn't get enough of her "Daddy". They are pretty cute if you ask me!

We believe in Miracles!

2009-01-04T11:27:00.002-07:00

We are living a miracle as you read this.
We will post more as soon as we can!
We send our love to all.

2008-10-31T06:36:00.004-06:00

Halloween is tonight,but we had a preview last night of Savannah and Isaac's costumes.

It should bee a fun day!

2008-10-29T19:06:00.004-06:00

Aren't we cute.

top picture above:
A little mix of pics from the Qwest center in Omaha, where attended the Time Out for Women event. It was amazing.

This is a picture from the Frankman girls' weekend. This is us at winter Quarters in the visitors center. They had a replica of the bunk beds used in ships when migrants were crossing. We had so much fun!

2008-10-06T00:38:00.002-06:00

James and I went to Minneapolis this summer for training for work for him.
We explored many of the area malls including Mall of America.
It is true that this mall is sooo big that it has an amusement park inside of it. It also has an aquarium and hundreds of stores. I think this is the first time I have ever seen James smile at the mall. I believe it was because we went to this cool Lego store. We forgot our camera so we just have the few pics we took on our phone.

sleep out on the trampoline

2008-10-06T00:04:00.001-06:00

This summers backyard camping consisted of lots of trampoline sleep outs and even a few nights in the hammock. Being a mom, I peaked out several times and we left the back door wide open. Each time I peaked out in the night Daisy lifted her head to check who was looking in on her family. We don't even have a fence, but she never left the trampoline until they did. She is such a great family dog.

Summer sleep outs

2008-10-05T23:57:00.003-06:00

AJ sleeping out on the Hammock. I took this picture at 8am and the sun had been up since 6. He must have been sleeping like a baby! He never sleeps this late in the house.

Boise trip summer 08

2008-10-05T23:27:00.003-06:00

Above:
- Almost all of us tried out the bed of nails!

- Isaac really liked the child size grocery store.

Below:
-Isaac is blowing on a bubble wall at The Discovery Center in Boise.

- We also took the peddle boats for a spin. AJ and Savannah could out peddle James, Isaac, and I. Our boat was a bit heavier.

- The Discovery center had a pulley system chair that everyone tried out. We want to build one at home now.

AJ Enjoying his dinner at Our favorite Vietnamese restaurant in Boise.

We went to Boise for A Families Supporting Adoption conference, but it was only a few hours, so we had time to play.
Overall our weekend trip to Boise was a success. We had so much fun playing we wished we could stay longer!

Isaac's Straw House

2008-10-05T23:15:00.001-06:00

Isaac loves to build houses. Last spring he built a Box house, now a Straw house. (Does this remind you of any fairy tales?)

We can't help but wonder if he may just become a contractor someday.

2008-10-05T22:59:00.006-06:00

We had our first "cousin work party" and started work on our fence. It was really fun. Grandpa and Grandma Frankman came to help along with the Provo Frankmans, and Carol/Brian and their kiddos. When everyone arrived we had all the posts in but only one section of fencing and at the end of the day we had seven sections up and all the pickets milled for seven more sections.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, to all who came to play/help!

HAPPY 7th Birthday Isaac

2008-10-05T22:53:00.001-06:00

AJ and Savannah found this treasure at a yard sale two weeks before Isaac's Birthday and could not resist buying it for him. We stored it in the downstairs pantry and Isaac made him a not that read "NO ISAAC" to hang on the door so he wouldn't forget to stay out so he could be surprised! It worked and he was so happy as you can see above!

Summer fun

2008-10-05T22:26:00.004-06:00

Great Grandma Pama was scheduled to come visit in early August, but her health wasn't as we hoped. So she opted out of the trip. We had already planned a cabin weekend, so much of the Gutirrez side of the family headed up to Grandpa and Grandma Frankman's cabin for a weekend of fun!

2008-10-05T22:12:00.005-06:00

Our blogging is a bit behind as my computer was out of sorts, but it is up and running so stand by for some summer updates!

Peaches,nectarines,blackberries,raspberries,corn,peas and tomatoes grew in our garden this year! We were so excited and can hardly wait for next year with high hopes to our plum , apricot, and apples trees will also take off!

Run Isaac Run!

2008-07-04T06:11:00.003-06:00

Isaac loves baseball.
He can hardly wait for next year when he doesn't have to use the tee!

I did it! I have always wanted to donate blood

2008-07-01T20:42:00.003-06:00

2008-06-30T22:45:00.003-06:00

This is a rather poor picture of Vanessa and Cameron's wedding flowers. I had a great time putting them together for them. They needed two sets because they took pictures on Monday and weren't married until Friday. It really was so fun!

Savannah's Massacre Rocks Fieldtrip

2008-06-06T18:44:00.010-06:00

We had a great time on the 4th grade field trip to Massacre Rocks state park. Savannah almost missed it. She was so excited she got sick to her stomach. Thinking nervousness was the cause, but being a mom- I followed the bus, so we would have a car just in case she really was sick. Thankfully we stayed all day, and had a great time.
We hiked and hoped not to see a rattle snake. We actually did, but we think it was dead. We reminded a class mate of Savannah's not to check if it was dead by touching it! The ranger said last year a student got off the trail to try and catch a baby rattle snake, and was bitten and $40,000 in medical bills later, he survived.
We also watched the ranger load and fire a black powder rifle. He was excited when he hit his target. I guess it is rare.

You want to ride on that Horse?

2008-06-06T17:28:00.004-06:00

James and Baby Max! We think they are pretty cute.

James and I are both afraid of riding horses, but our kids have always wanted to. Lucky for them uncle Dave chose a wife who grew up with horses. Aunt Allyson arranged to let the kids take a ride when we went to visit them, and celebrate their new baby- MAX. They love it and Hope and Pray: as do we, that Dave and Allyson will get a job closer to us so we can play more often!

AJ and the Rocket

2008-05-28T15:49:00.003-06:00

We---- Xochithl,Lucia,Tzenni-Bah,Isaac,Brooklyn,Diego and Athen spent a few hours Tuesday morning watching the 5th graders launch rockets. It really was cool to see them go up and out of site.
5......4......3......2.....1......pkoooooo. (However you spell that rocket sound). They launched at a golf driving range not far from our house. FUN,FUN,FUN- minus the sulfur smell, and the loud noise for Brooklyn.

ALVIN!!!!!

2008-05-21T14:27:00.004-06:00

Which chipmunk is the trouble maker Alvin, Simon, or Theodore? Was it ALVIN!!!!We think this may actually be him. After all many California residents have purchased real estate in "our" beautiful state of Idaho.---I have actually resided here in Idaho longer than I did in California.---
He seems very secure, and is constantly stealing our flowers, seeds(ie. radish seeds that we had just planted), and even parts of the robins nest that we like in our front tree. He is very entertaining, and poses for pictures like he has done it all his life.

Is AJ a fork?

2008-05-21T14:12:00.004-06:00

The 5th grade at our school does an annual "State Fair". AJ chose to present on, and research Rhode Island, "because it is the smallest state." As part of the project he had to decorate a shoe box as a float, make a poster board about his state, give an oral report,complete an extensive booklet on his state, participate in a parade with his float and dress up as someone or something that represented his state. Sooo, as you see he chose to be a fork. Rhode Island makes famous silver ware. If AJ hadn't studied this state, we think we may have never known that! He is such a fun boy. All the kids raved about his costume, which he thoroughly enjoyed. We think our kids have such great teachers.

Our Princess had her 10th Birthday

2008-05-05T10:14:00.004-06:00

This is most of the cousins who came for Savannah's Spaghetti dinner. Note the blue plates- Savannah is still all about blue.

SNOW TODAY?!

Athen and family came for a visit

2008-05-03T21:11:00.006-06:00

We loved having a quick visit from Athen, Lucia,Brooklyn and Diego. They are all sooo cute. You too Lucia!

Farmer AJ

2008-04-21T15:26:00.004-06:00

James driving the lawn tractor is exciting but, AJ who weighed too little last year for it to operate with him on board, has hit the minimum weight and height and was so proud to drive around.

CHEF ISAAC

2008-04-21T11:31:00.006-06:00

Isaac loves "belly eggs"- more commonly known as over easy. Today he learned to prepare them. I was of course overseeing the project, but he really did crack, cook, and eat them all on his own! He is a very proud chef. The wild hair is his version of spikey hair.

OUR VERY NEWEST NEPHEW

2008-04-21T11:27:00.003-06:00

Just preparing a spot for baby Max. Rumor has it he will be joining Dave and Allyson TODAY! We will post a picture of the cute - growing- family ASAP!
........
update:

Here he is. He had a pretty tough time getting out and got a big bonk on his head. So they have him on oxygen. They think his head hurts so bad and that he is extra tired, and he forgets to breath.
Welcome David "Max"well Frankman, we love you!

2008-04-15T19:30:00.003-06:00

Check out our new trailer. One of our past tenants left it for us when they moved out. It attaches perfectly to our lawn tractor. So, much of Friday night and Saturday were spent hauling pine needles, and pine cones to the pick up.
We almost filled it entirely up.
We are almost real farmers with our little tractor and trailer!

Issac's box house

2008-04-07T14:03:00.001-06:00

We got this huge box a month ago when we bought the rocking recliner. Isaac requested that we store it in the garage until it warmed up a little. Saturday was the day he picked to move it to the back deck. It wasn't very warm, but he just couldn't wait any longer. As you see Savannah and AJ liked it as well. The above picture shows them peeking out through the "sunroof".

OUR NEWEST NEPHEW!

2008-04-05T19:09:00.003-06:00

Baby Athen arrived right on schedule yesterday morning. The kiddos were here with us. They of course were very excited to see him. Brooklyn was a little unsure of the name. She had voted for Lincoln, and wondered about sending baby Athen back and getting baby Lincoln. Diego on the other hand sang "beebee Athen, beebee Athen, goin see the beebee." By the time we got everything done here, and made the drive (stopping four times it took us about five hours-it is normally three), Brooklyn was alright with Athen for a name.
They are such a cute family. Congratulations to the Ratliffs!

2008-04-01T20:45:00.004-06:00

Brooklyn and Savannah at the library. They are performing the "PRINCESS and the BEE". The Princess is the one with the shaggy hair that Brooklyn is holding. She must have had a rough day. Poor princess.

THE BOYS PLAN...From the Girls Perspective

2008-03-31T09:03:00.007-06:00

If you are not aware we have a puppy. Well, she is a full grown dog now=)
Under Moms rules she is not invited on beds, couches etc. James, and the kids have established a separate set of Daisy rules. They say she has to stay off furniture, but when I am out of the room they invite her to sit up on the bed by them. So, I pretend like I don't notice, and Daisy knows to jump off the bed if I walk in the room. It seems to work out alright. However, Yesterday, when I came back from a short appointment at the church, I heard this funny(at least to me), story.
"MOM, DAISY THREW UP ON YOUR BED!!! (AJ) QUICKLY FOLLOWED BY, "BUT IT'S OKAY, WE TOOK THE COMFORTER OFF, AND PUT IT DOWN IN THE LAUNDRY ROOM... SO YOU CAN WASH IT."(JAMES)
I thanked them but, thought for a minute and asked "did you clean the throw up off the comforter first?" with all sincerity the reply was "we made sure we carried it downstairs carefully"
What could I say- They had carefully carried the blanket as not to leave a trail of dog sickness all the way to the laundry room. Men and boys just think so differently than girls- Savannah and I laugh because, we would have definitely handled this situation very different. Perhaps we would have cleaned up the mess, and taken it down and began the laundering process.
Our house is so much more fun because we have a mix of girls and boys!

Sarcasm and Our Six Year Old

2008-03-27T16:35:00.005-06:00

I better write this funny down before we forget.
Isaac being just six years old is a comedian in our book. He doesn't try to be funny, but he just is.
He and I were busily grabbing a few Easter items at Walgreen's early last week. The clerk at the register noticed he looked rather bored, and started having him bag the candy to keep him occupied. Isaac feeling playful decided to shut the bag so the clerk could not get any more items in it. Mr. Walgreen's could tell he was playing and said "Nice job keeping that bag open." Before I could even say -- "hey, bud please open the bag"- Isaac had moaned with disgust and simply stated- "SARCASM!" and sat down by the bags no longer willing to help or hinder the bagging.
Neither myself or the clerk could hide our surprise and smiles at his clever outburst. How in the world did he know what that meant, and well enough to use it in context? We asked him that very question, and he said "AJ taught me."

Spring Break 2008

2008-03-26T23:24:00.005-06:00

Isaac and James ready for a snow mobile ride

Isaac and Savannah made a sledding track as we waited for our turn to snow mobile in to the cabin.

Daisy beat Isaac and Savannah up the snow hill, so she stopped to wait for them.

We dug a snow cave that fit three kids, one dad, and one dog.
AJ is ready to ride the dog sled. He said he felt like a real "musher" even though he had a snow mobile pulling him rather than dogs.

This is Savannah headed off on her dog sled adventure.

The Date on these is off. I need to fix my Camera, it appears to be few years behind!
We had so much fun! Too bad we don't have more time to play.

Happy St.Patricks Day

2008-03-18T10:01:00.003-06:00

Happy St. Patrick's day. We celebrated by decorating eggs for Easter. This Easter we tested a new plan. We purchased "Food Safe Egg Markers"-on last years clearance. Then we colored and colored. After completing just one dozen eggs -we have decided the traditional dipping in different colors is still our favorite method for egg decorating!

2008-03-15T10:31:00.003-06:00

Lucia, Diego, baby Athens, and Brooklyn all having a nap at the Frankmans. They are adorable!

Picture

2008-03-12T11:27:00.000-06:00

My House By Savannah

2008-02-25T09:45:00.004-07:00

I like my House
It is as Quiet as a mouse
Except when my cousins are there
Then it is almost like a FAIR....

We have been laughing all weekend about Savannah's poem. It is an accurate description of how fun and exciting our house becomes when cousins are around, and we love it!!
She wrote this for school but we wanted to post it as well.

My Valentine

2008-02-12T10:35:00.001-07:00

Life is good, Especially when you are married to your best friend!

2008-01-21T22:13:00.000-07:00

We celebrated the New Year with chocolate, banana's and Strawberries, and more chocolate, caramel, and pretzels, and more chocolate, and mint Oreos, and more chocolate!

GROSS!

2008-01-21T22:07:00.001-07:00

T he kids took these pictures themselves, and yes
this is actually Daisy's bone!!!

Christmas

2007-12-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

We had such a nice Christmas Break

*Carol and her family dropped by for a visit. The boys got us to dig out a train track and fed Daisy lots of treats for doing tricks.

Sunday right after church we headed to Rexburg to see Grandpa and Grandma F. We had planned to spend a few days at the cabin, but some were nervous about the snowy conditions and opted we should stay in Rexburg.

*Dave and Allyson made homemade donuts-YUM

*Went sledding with the Larsens. Fun was had by all. Matthew loved Uncle James' snowballs hitting the Yukon window that he was safely behind.

*We had lots of cousin time(with James' side of the family )
which translates to ...a lot of noise!

*We had a short program including scripture and song on Christmas Eve, and everyone was quiet.

Headed home and Santa stopped in to drop off gifts and stocking treats.

* The kids slept until 6:30am. Yeah.

* Visited Grandpa and Grandma G for lunch of Prime rib and fixings
and more gifts.

* More cousin time with Xochithl's side of the family.