The Better Group Picture

Rich and Lisa's blog has excellent pictures from the trip, and maybe Nathan will post some of his & Kobe's pictures on his blog.

The Best Part of Living in California is FAMILY!

Thank you, Rich and Lisa for organizing a family outing to Muir Woods. We all had a great time, even though Bella does not look particuarly thrilled in the last picture. It was chilly, beautiful fun. I think the cousins enjoyed the time together more than the actual surroundings. Nathan and Kobie were hilarious. We have some great pictures and videos capturing their keen senses of humor and their Indiana Jones-inspired antics. We missed Anne, Bob, Doug & their families and are looking forward to their Christmas arrivals!

Young Grandpa Francis

What a handsome, little guy! Mom, do you know how old Grandpa is in this picture?

Grandma and Grandpa Francis Through the Years

What wonderful grandparents, what great examples. I used to think it was such a rip off that they passed away at such young ages (and it must be hard on you younger grandchildren), but having watched people deal with aging parents who have lost a lot of their abilities and faculties, what a blessing to go without those struggles. However, I still don't think that Dad should plan on checking out in 14 years.

Thinking about Grandma and Grandpa, I'm sitting here crying happy tears. I loved Grandma's laugh and her great smile. I wish I had listened
when she tried to tell me how much I would regret being mean to my brother. I remember visiting them when I was 10 and staying up so late talking that she fell asleep in the middle of her sentence. Grandpa had such a warm smile, you just felt great when he'd look at you. I loved looking at the trophy case with Grandpa and Uncle Arthur and having them tell me the stories behind each shiny artifact. Thanks, Mom and Dad for taking the time to drive us down there as often as you did, especially since we were SO fun to travel with. And thank you, Heavenly Father, for protecting them and all others on the road in their many travels to see us and for blessing us with their love and example.

Look, it's Dave and Rich!

I love and miss Grandpa Francis. He gave great hugs. It's fun to see resemblances in our generation. I've always thought that Dave resembled Grandpa and Uncle Arthur, but I never noticed Rich to resemble him until I saw the picture on the right. It's funny how much Rich can look like Dad and then still look like Grandpa Francis, too. Do you see the resemblance? Rachel thinks I'm crazy.

Family Reunion Zoo Pics

This is a beautiful shot of the back of everyone's heads, but I like the way it shows us all hanging out together.

I recently read that a great photographer knows which pictures to delete. Clearly, I'm not a great photographer. The rest of you are so superior that I usually rely on your skills to document our time together, but here are a few shots from the recent festivities.

Favs from Mom's Collection, Part II

Doug, Nov. 1973

Dougie Bubbles

Rich Serenading his Cake

Rich "helping" Grandpa Bowling, Nov. 79

Favs from Mom's Collection, Sorry I messed up the birth order. I can't edit.

Anne, May 1981

Anne, Kindergarten 1985-86

Dave, 3 years old

Dave, Feb. 1986

Baby Bob

Bob, May 1985

Father's Day Fake Smiles June 2004

Well, at least Rich and Grandpa Bowling don't mind having their picture taken.

Road Trip December 1972

Grandma Bowling, Dad, Dad's coat, & Mom A Baby Sherrie Burrito
in front of the Arizona Temple Dec. 1972
Who needs a minivan when you can transport Grandma Bowling, Mom, Aunt Sharron, Shannon, Dad, Shanda and (I'm assuming) the baby in the Bug?

Before there was Photoshop ....

It's too bad that Grandma Francis is not available to add Craig to the family picture in July, but Lisa can take some tips from this photographic gem.

Anne the Accessorizer

Tonight at Mom and Dad's I found this lovely photo while returning some items to the small pantry closet. The picture is not in the best shape, but the subject is priceless. I was just thinking today how I actually miss the days of Rachel's excessive accessorizing and her multi-ponytail hairdos. They really do grow up fast.

Proud of His Shiner

Rich, do you remember how you received that lovely eye shadow? I remember taking the picture but not how you go it.

Anne, Hope your drive up in July is less stressful than this one!

We are really looking forward to your safe arrival!

Chubby 4 year old Cheeks 1975

Oahu 1986

Beach Fun 1986

Another fine piece of photography. Couldn't have waited a few more seconds for the scenery to move on past from behind the boys' heads. Alas.
Was I the world's best photographer or what? Sorry, Doug.
Mom was always great about playing with us. Love Anne's smile.
Snorkeling Dave. Proof you can get a sunburn even on overcast days.
What's your vote for best part of this picture: the posture, the hair, or the sun glasses?

Aunts and Uncles are Awesome!

Rachel and Nathan are blessed to have wonderful aunts and uncles. I wish I had pictures of all of you to post at the moment. We truly love and appreciate you all.

Blessing Day for Rachie

We can't wait until its time for Baby Ava's blessing!
Dave really enjoys baby blessings. The gentleman to the far left is Steve's dad, Norm Jensen.

Gridley Snow

What handsome boys!

All Hail the Triumphant Fishermen

We were clearly pleased with our catch at Burney Falls. Love the yellow Impala station wagon.

January Birthday Boys

Do you suppose that was Richie's favorite shirt or just a lucky coincidence? One picture shows a girl masquerading as a kind big sister. In the other picture, the true persona emerges.

Rare Photo

I don't know what the occasion was, but this is a rare photo of Dave as a toddler and another apology to Doug for the mistake of the photographer.