The Best Christmas

Hey, everyone! I hope you had a wonderful holiday! I had a great Christmas. The Christmas pageant went really well. I didn't mess up my lines or anything. Kanani froze at the beginning. I felt bad for her, but she still did good. Beth was the shining star of the pageant, though. Her solo was good! She brought the house down. Her sister gave her roses after the play. I was so happy for Beth. She was really unhappy at first, that she didn't get her usual role, but she rocked the part she got!

Christmas Eve and Christmas morning were fun. My cousin, and my Aunt and Uncle came to visit. I was happy to see my cousin again. She's a little bit older than me. I like her because she's not just a relative, but also a friend. My Grandparents came over too. Santa was good to me this year. I got almost everything on my list. My Christmas was just the same as every other one, and that's the way I like it. To me, our family Christmas is like slipping into cozy, worn-in sneakers after wearing new shoes all year. Comfortable and familiar. I hope it never changes.

My Christmas may not have changed much this year, but Paige's did. Paige's mom is still dating Bill (AKA Mr. Reese), and he celebrated Christmas with them this year. On Christmas day, I saw him come over to their house. He was carrying a big stack of presents. He had a Santa hat on. I was so anxious to see Paige, and find out all the details, but my mom didn't want me to call Paige or go to her house, because it was a holiday and all. So, I had to wait until the day after Christmas to see my friend.

I finally got to see Paige yesterday. We went sledding yesterday morning, on the hill in her backyard. We trudged up the big hill, and went flying down in my two-person sled. After we went down the hill the fifth time, we were laughing so hard, because the sled hit a bump, and we rolled off, into the snow. We decided to take a break and make snow angels. We started talking about what we got for Christmas. We both got a Lalaloopsy doll, which we both really wanted. Paige said her mom also gave her a purple mp3 player (lucky duck!), and some other things. She said Bill gave her mom earrings and some accessories for her guitar. I asked Paige what Bill gave her for Christmas. He gave her a boxed set of the Chronicles of Narnia books, and a journal. I think Paige is starting to accept Bill. She said Christmas was so much fun this year, because of him. He helped her assemble her gifts, and they watched A Christmas Story. In fact, she said this was the best Christmas she's ever had!

Frankly,
Frankie

Happy Holidays!

Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday and a bright New Year!



Frankly,
Frankie (and all my friends)

So much to look forward too!

Hey everyone!
I had a great day at school today! Mr. Reese announced that we are going to have a class holiday party the day before Christmas break! Isn't that great? He is even going to bring in a real Christmas tree next week, and we are going to make our own decorations for it, like popcorn garlands. There's so much to be done. Next week, instead of silent reading, we are going to be working on our decorations. I like silent reading a lot, but I don't mind missing out on it, since we're going to be doing something that fun.

Best of all, during social studies, we are going to learn how the holidays are celebrated around the world, and do a craft or activity for that holiday. Like, we are going to learn how to play dreidl when we learn about Hanukkah, and we are going to design gingerbread houses when we learn about Christmas in Germany. Then, when we learn about the holidays in Sweden, we are going to make St. Lucia wreaths. I'm really looking forward to this. I love learning about how people live in different cultures.

Today, when we were planning the party, Mr. Reese asked for volunteers to bring in snacks. I raised my hand right away. As I've said before, my mom is an excellent cook. I volunteered to bring mom's special mint chocolate chip cookies. They look like regular chocolate chip cookies, but the cookie part is green, and tastes like mint. They're really good. I think everyone will love them. And since they're green, they kind of look like martian chocolate chip cookies.

This is shaping up to be an exciting Holiday! It really is the most wonderful time of the year...

Frankly,
Frankie

Holiday Preperations

Don't you just love the holiday season? I do! There's so many things to do, and it doesn't even feel like work, because it's all so much fun! My family is already decking the halls for Christmas. We are getting a Christmas tree on Thursday! I can't wait. I love to pick out a tree. The smell of a fresh Christmas tree is one of my favorite parts of the holiday. I also love to decorate the inside and outside of the house. We always put my mom's special nutcracker and Christmas carol books out on the coffee table. She's had them since she was a little girl. My dad and my brothers hang twinkle lights around our windows, and in the trees in our yard. The trees look especially pretty. Mom and I also bake cookies and other treats. I like sugar cookies best. My mom is probably the only person I've ever met who's favorite holiday treat is fruitcake! I kind of feel sorry for fruitcake... no one seems to like it! I do think it's pretty, though. The fruit in it looks like shiny jewels.

Another special part of Christmas is the church Christmas pageant. I'm always in it, and I always play an angel. Now, I'm not the best singer or actress, but my mom does sew all of the costumes for the pageant. I wonder if there's any connection, there? My friend, Beth, has been playing Mary in the pageant since she was six. She has true talent. She has a beautiful singing voice, and she can act and dance. She really deserves a great part in the pageant. But this year, things are going to be different. Remember that new girl, Kanani? Well, she was supposed to work behind the scenes for the pageant, with the lighting and stuff, but the choir director said she would make a perfect Mary this year. She was cast right on the spot. So, Beth has been upstaged this year. She was not happy about it. She didn't act angry or cry or anything, but I could tell she was quietly sad. Poor Beth. But she did end up with a pretty good part in the play. She's going to be in the Angel Choir with me. And the choir director even gave her a solo! She's going to sing all by herself, in front of everyone! I somehow think she'll be okay about losing out on her usual role.

Speaking of the costumes, they are really pretty! And I'm not just saying that because my mom makes them. They are made out of shimmery, white material, with gauzy sleeves, and pale blue ribbons. The wings are made of soft white feathers, with a little bit of white glitter on them. They look magical, almost like you could really fly in them. When we wear them to rehearse in, I feel so proud of mom, because she makes the costumes so special.

What are some of your favorite holiday traditions?

Frankly,
Frankie

Pictures of Halloween's past

It's Halloween Everyone!
Here are some pictures of me and some of my friends enjoying Halloween over the past few years:


Madame Jess, fortune teller:

Paige as a Grecian Princess, Me as an angel, and Lanie as a cowgirl:


Paige and I sorting our loot (2010):


Have a magical and safe Halloween!

Frankly,
Frankie

My Ode to Autumn

I got my Fall poem back from Mr. Reese today. I think he liked it. I got a 99 on it, and a Halloween sticker! Here it is:

My Autumn
By Frankie Schafer

My Autumn is...
Bright leaves falling off the trees.
Raking them into piles up to my knees.

I jump into them with a running start,
because that is the very best part.

My Autumn is...
Up to my elbows in pumpkin goop.
A grinning jack o' lantern on my stoop.


I think he's smiling because it's almost his day
Halloween's when pumpkins go out to play.

My Autumn is...
Setting the Thanksgiving table once again,
while my dad and brothers watch football in the den.

Eating at the kids' table, like every year before,
then clearing the plates while my Grandpa snores.

My Autumn is...
A season of family, food, and fun,
Happy Autumn to everyone!

(This is an original poem. Please do not copy it. Thank you!)

Frankly,
Frankie

Birthday Girl!

Hey everyone!
Yesterday was my birthday! It was really fun. I brought chocolate cupcakes with orange frosting to school, to share with my class. Everyone liked them! (my mom is an excellent cook, so everyone in my class looks forward to my birthday!).

Then, after school, I saw a familiar car in the driveway. My brother Brad was there! He came home to celebrate my birthday. He gave me a hug. I was so glad to see him. I haven't seen him in person in a while. All of my friends who live nearby came to my party (Paige, Beth, Sunny, Rebecca, Kit, Lanie, Mischa, Alexis, and Kanani). This is me at my party:




I'm wearing my special cowgirl-looking outfit. Do I look eleven yet? My dad gave me a cowgirl hat to match, for a birthday gift. It's really cool.

First my friend and I played games. We played hide and seek in my yard, and tag. Then we pushed each other on the tire swing. When we got tired and cold, we went inside, and ate homemade chili and cornbread. It was delicious. Next it was present opening time. Besides the cowgirl hat, I got some neat things. Brad gave me a sweatshirt from his school. It's sort of big on me, but I like it. My brother Charlie gave me socks with horses on them. Mischa and Alexis gave me a spy kit. Lanie gave me a neat book of ghost stories. Paige gave me an art kit. I got lots of other great gifts too.

Then mom brought out the cake and ice cream! The ice cream was French vanilla, and the cake was an apple cake with caramel frosting! It had eleven candles. I blew them all out, but I can't tell you what a wished for, or else it won't come true. Everyone loved the cake. As I said, my mom is an excellent cook. While we were eating, dad passed out our goody bags. We looked in the bags. They had lots of fun Halloween things in them, like ghost shaped erasers, little notepads with Halloween pictures on them, and candy. The funniest thing in the treat bags were fake mustaches! They are sticky on the back, and you can put them on your face! my friends and I tried them on. We looked so silly. It was funny!

Then, it was time for my friends to leave. After all, it was a school night. I was sorry to see them go. But the best part of my birthday is that Halloween is just around the corner, so there is lot's more fun to come!

Frankly,
Frankie

How it went

Hey everyone!
This is sort of part 2 from my last post. Paige's mom has been busy, so Paige didn't talk to her until Monday. This is how it went (according to Paige). It contains some heavy stuff, just to warn you, in case you don't like reading this sort of thing. But I think it's worth reading...

Paige's mom was not happy about how Paige acted at the dinner party, and told her she needs to be more respectful toward Mr. Reese, because not only is an adult, but Paige's teacher. Paige said she was sorry, and she would try to be more respectful, but there were some things she wanted to talk about. She told her mom what was bothering her. About how she didn't want her family to change, and her worries about her real father. Paige's mom told her that no matter who come into their lives, her love for Paige would never change. She also threw in that she and Bill (Mr. Reese) have no plans to get married or anything, but if they did, Paige would be the first to know. Then she said that Paige doesn't have to worry about her father, because she and Paige's father are living separate lives. She said she would be glad if Paige's father chose to take an interest in his daughter and get in touch with Paige, but she has no interest in getting back together with him, and she's sure the feelings are mutual. It's the sad truth, but it's true.

She asked Paige if she wouldn't mind if she talked about what they were discussing with Bill. Paige asked why, and she said because he would understand what Paige is going through better than anyone. Paige shrugged and said she "guessed so."

So, the next day Mr. Reese (Bill) came over to visit, and asked Paige if he could talk with her, not as her teacher, but a friend. He told her about when he was Paige's age, and his parents got divorced. He told her how sad he and his little brother were, and how they wished their dad would just come back so they could feel like a real family again. He asked Paige if she ever felt that way too. She said she feels that way all the time. Mr. Reese said his dad wrote him and his little brother often at first, then he sent fewer letters, than none at all, and he hasn't heard from him since. Paige said her dad left when she was a baby, and she's never gotten a card or letter from him. She told him how she wishes she'd get even just a card from him every Christmas and Birthday, but one never comes. Bill told her he's sorry things turned out that way, but she is very lucky to have a mom who loves her so much. He promised her that even though he was dating her mom, it would never change she and Paige's relationship. Then he told her how his mom got remarried when he was thirteen, to a nice man. He told her how he eventually accepted his stepfather, and came to love him as if he were his real father. He said his stepfather was the missing piece to his family. He said although he and Paige's mom are not married, they do care for each other, and he hopes he and Paige could at least be friends.

"See," he said. "I do understand how you feel. And I'm here for you if you ever want to talk about things."

Paige asked him if he was mad about how she treated him at the dinner party.

"Nah," he said. "I would have done the same thing when I was your age. It's cool."

So, that's how it went. Things may not be completely solved, but I think Paige and Mr. Reese are off to a better start now.

Well, I better go start my homework. Mr. Reese gave us a fun homework assignment. We have to write a poem about Autumn. Also... tomorrow is my birthday! I can't believe another year has passed. Tomorrow will be a busy day. I'm having a party after school, and Brad is coming home to celebrate. I'll be sure to let everyone know how the party goes.

Frankly,
Frankie

Dinner party

Hey everyone!
A lot has been going on around here. Love is in the air (much to Paige's dismay). You see, it all started with some big news. Paige's mom is dating Mr. Reese (our teacher)! Paige's parents are separated. Paige doesn't really know her Dad. She was too little when he left, and he has never gotten in touch with her. This is really hard on Paige sometimes, and she hates talking about it.

But last Tuesday, Paige told me the "big news." Apparently, Paige's mom and Mr. Reese have gotten to know each other through school, and really hit it off. Paige told me not to tell anyone. I asked 'why not,' and she said because it's embarrassing. I told her I don't think it's embarrassing at all! Mr. Reese is so cool and nice (and cute). I think Mr. Reese and Ms. Shepherd make a good couple. They both have dark hair, and they're both teachers. But I promised I wouldn't tell anyone. Paige has been acting sort of odd ever since. She doesn't look at Mr. Reese or raise her hand in class much. When he talks to her, she blushes. I feel bad that she's embarrassed, but I'm sort of happy about the news. If Mr. Reese and Paige's mom got married, it would be like having Booth for a Dad! (not that I mentioned this to Paige).

Then, last Friday, Paige told me Mr. Reese was coming to her house for dinner on Saturday. I know it's impolite to invite yourself to places, but I admit I did just this once. I begged Paige to let me come for dinner too, mostly because I wanted to see what Mr. Reese is like in real life (meaning, outside school). Paige asked her Mom, and she said it would be okay if I came. So, Saturday night came, and I dressed in a nice outfit and went to Paige's house. Paige was waiting for me, and pulled me into the house before I could even ring the bell. Mr. Reese hadn't arrived yet. Ms. Shepherd was cooking dinner. She looked really pretty. She was wearing a blue skirt and a pretty blouse. She had the sides of her hair pulled back. Paige was wearing her new corduroy jumper. Paige and I set the table. As we were finishing, Mr. Reese arrived. He has a shiny silver car. He rang the bell, and Ms. Shepherd asked Paige to answer it. Paige groaned about it, but she did (me following close behind). Mr. Reese looked so handsome. He was wearing a light blue button up shirt, and black pants. He was carrying a bouquet of flowers.

He patted Paige on the shoulder and said; "Hello Paige! Don't you like nice this evening!" Paige's mom called from the kitchen that she'd be out in a minute. Mr. Reese said he was glad to see me. He tried to chat with us, but Paige wasn't very talkative. Poor Mr. Reese. He was trying. Luckily, I can hold up a conversation.

Finally, Paige's mom walked in. Mr. Reese stood up, and handed her the flowers. Paige's mom said they were beautiful, which they were. Then, Mr. Reese kissed Paige's mom on the cheek! That was enough to set me and Paige giggling, even though she was acting like a grump that night. Mr. Reese (who's real name, I learned, is Bill), and Paige's mom (who's real name is Julia, but I already knew that) talked for a while. They both seemed really happy. Then it was time to sit down to dinner. Paige's mom made lasagna. My favorite! Bill (Mr. Reese) asked Paige and I how we like school this year. I said I love it.

Paige shrugged and said; "It's okay." Her mom gave her a raised eyebrow look and asked her to please stop being impolite to Mr. Reese. Mr. Reese gave Paige a knowing look. I think he gets it.

The grown-ups lingered around talking long after dessert (cheesecake), so Paige and I went into the living room to play a game. Paige was still in a mood. I asked her why she doesn't like Mr. Reese anymore.

She said; "I do like him. I just liked him better before he was dating my Mom."

"But why?" I asked. "He's so nice!"

Paige said she doesn't want Mr. Reese to marry her mom, because it's always been just the two of them, and she likes it that way. Then she said she's worried her Dad might come back, and if her mom is dating someone else, he might go away again.

I put my hand on Paige's arm. "Have you told your Mom what you're worried about?" I asked. She said no, she hasn't. I told her she should because it might help. Paige said she'd think about it. I had to go home at 8:00, so my visit ended there. Mr. Reese said goodbye to me. He said he'd see me Monday. Paige's Mom hugged me and said she was glad I could come. Before I left, I hugged Paige (does anyone else feel like this story is turning into an episode of Full House?) and told her I hoped she felt better. She whispered to me that she decided she'd talk to her mom tomorrow. Then, I left my first grown-up dinner party, glad to spend some time with my own family.

Frankly,
Frankie

I love Fall!

Hey everyone!
Yesterday when I stepped outside, it felt like Fall! I just love Fall. It's my favorite season, and October is my favorite month. It has that special feeling to it. I think it feels warm and cold at the same time. Cold, because the weather is cooling down, and Fall makes you think of spooky things like Halloween, but warm, because you finally get to use warm blankets, and everything feels cozy.

The leaves are starting to change, and everything looks so pretty. I love to hear the brown leaves crunch under my feet. When there are enough on the ground, I like to play in them. The air also smells just right, too. It smells crisp, and kind of smoky from people's chimneys. And the nights just feel like Halloween. Dark, with a bright moon in a clear sky, and chilly breezes shaking the bare tree branches. Perfect trick or treating weather.

And... October is also my birthday month! My birthday is October 13th... 11 more days to go!

Frankly,
Frankie

10 Facts About Paige!

Hey everyone!
My best friend, Paige, wanted to write ten facts about herself, too (that's her picture, below):

1. I am an only child

2. I speak (almost) fluent Greek

3. I was born in Chicago

4. I am allergic to peanuts

5. I am learning to play guitar (my mom is a music teacher)

6. I have a cat named Jade

7. My favorite color is indigo

8. My birthstone is garnet (unlike Frankie, I wouldn't trade my birthstone for anything- garnets are beautiful)

9. I believe in fairies

10. I can't wait until I'm old enough to drink coffee (it smells so good!)

Frankly,
Frankie (and Paige)

10 Facts About Frankie!

Here are 10 facts about me:

1. My favorite foods are spaghetti and meatballs and apple pie a la mode.

2. My favorite school subject is English.

3. My least favorite school subject is math.

4. My favorite crayon color is Robin Egg Blue (Crayola)

5. I want to be a spy when I grow up.

6. My birthstone is opal, but I wish it was turquoise (my favorite color- lucky December people...).

7. One of my favorite hobbies is tapping trees for sap and making maple syrup with my family.

8. Sometimes, when I am doing my chores, I like to pretend I am a pioneer girl.

9. I actually like going to the dentist.

10. I wish I had a pet Scottie dog.

Frankly,
Frankie

First day of school!

Yesterday was my first day of school! I got up at 6:30 in the morning, and put on one of my new outfits. My new sneakers felt all stiff and weird and new. I combed my hair neatly, and put on my headband that matches my new shirt. I had butterflies in my stomach, thinking about the day ahead, but felt a little better when I saw that my mom made waffles for breakfast! What a great start to the day. My brother Charlie was already eating when I came downstairs. When it was time to leave, I grabbed my backpack, and kissed my mom goodbye. I met Paige and her mom outside, since I always ride to school with them. Paige was wearing new clothes too. She was wearing a pretty corduroy jumper. Paige's mom pulled out of the driveway, and we were off. Summer vacation was officially over.

When we got to the school, we walked with Paige's mom to her classroom. She's the music teacher. The room was neat and organized. The musical instruments were all lined up, and the desktop was pristine. It seemed a little unfamiliar, but I know that soon, the walls will be covered with posters of instruments and composers, drawing and cards from students, and reminders on sticky notes. The desk will be littered with paperwork, lunch menus, and sheet music. Organized chaos. Oh! And the room will be filled with music and laughter. Paige's mom took a deep breath, and said she's so glad to be back at school.

We left for class just before the first bell rang. Paige's mom hugged us, and we headed to Mr. Reese's classroom. I felt pretty happy, even though I was nervous. I'm glad Paige is in my class. It's great to be in the same class as your best friend. I wondered who else would be in our class this year. We found Mr. Reese's room easily. It's at the end of a hall, near a large, sunny window. Mr. Reese's classroom is big, and cheerful. Mr. Reese was at the board, writing our class schedule. There were a few other kids in the room. Mr. Reese turned away from the board and greeted us. He looked friendly and smart. When I saw his face closer, I couldn't believe my eyes. He looks almost exactly like Booth from Bones! Bones is my favorite TV show...

He said; Welcome to class, girls. This is going to be a great year! Just tell me your names, and I'll mark you on the attendance list."

I answered first; "Francesca Schafer."

Mr. Reese made a check by my name. He said he was glad to have me in class. He asked me if I have a nickname I prefer to be called by.

"Everyone just calls me Frankie." I replied.

Then Paige told him her name.

"Oh." He said. "You must be Ms. Shepherd's daughter. She's such a nice lady, and I hear she's an excellent music teacher. Welcome to class, Paige!"

Paige looked at her shoes. She was blushing. Mr. Reese told us to take a seat wherever we wanted. He doesn't assign seats. Paige and I took two desks next to each other, near the front of the room. More kids filed in, including Mason, my last year's crush, and Kanani, that new girl from Hawaii. Her long, long hair was braided into two thick braids. She sat behind Paige and I. When she sat, the ends of her braids hung below the seat of her chair! I've been hoping to get to know Kanani better. She seems really cool. Maybe we'll become friends this year?

So, the day went on smoothly. I think Mr. Reese will be a really fun teacher. He tells silly jokes, and he has all kinds of fun projects planned. He said we might even get a class pet, like a guinea pig or something. I think this is going to be one of my best school years yet!

Frankly,
Frankie

Book Review of the Month: Lemonade Mouth

Hey everyone!
This month, I read a really good book called Lemonade Mouth, by Mark Peter Hughes. It's about five very different kids; impulsive and opinionated Stella, determined and ambitious Mohini, dreamy and thoughtful Charlie, lovable and stubborn Wen, and shy and loyal Olivia, who meet in detention and discover they have a gift for making music together. So, at the urging of their school music teacher, they form a band called Lemonade Mouth. They become an overnight sensation at their school after playing at a Halloween party, and use their music to stand up for the weaker person and voice the opinions of the unheard. Their story is told in each band member's point of view, and tells about their journey to local stardom and the revolution they start in the name of lemonade.

I really loved this book! Ever since I saw the Disney Channel movie; Lemonade Mouth, I've wanted to read the book that inspired it. I think Lemonade Mouth is a very inspiring story. I love a good underdog story, and this book is great, because it tells about five outcasts who become the voice of the oppressed through music, even when the odds are against them. It has a good message about standing up for what you believe in, even if you stand alone. Mo, Charlie, Wen, Stella, and Olivia's different points of view are fun to read, and they are very relatable. I can see a little bit of myself in each of them, at different times. I think my favorite message in Lemonade Mouth, though, is how music touches lives.

I give Lemonade Mouth an A+. It was such a good book. Want to know more about it? Check out the Lemonade Mouth website Here: http://lemonademouth.com/. Happy reading!

Frankly,
Frankie

My brother, the college man

Today we dropped my brother Brad off at college. We have been helping him pack for weeks, but the day didn't seem like it would ever really get here. We loaded everything in the mini-van today (yes, we have a mini-van... LOL), and drove him up. Mom insisted we walk him to his dorm, and he protested at first, but finally agreed. So, when we got there, we set his bags down, and said our "goodbye for now's." It was sort of hard. My mom was kind of weepy, even though Brad can come home to visit often. Brad is the oldest kid in our family. I guess that's why it's so hard for her. Brad has always been sort of bossy, but he is my big brother, and I love him. The truth is, I will miss having him around all the time. Thinking about this, I sort of got a lump in my throat, and my eyes stung. I started to cry, and Brad scooped me up right off the floor and hugged me.

He said; "I'm gonna miss you, kiddo."

I said; "I'll miss you too Brad."

Just then, Brad's new roommate came into the room. He was a big guy, and seemed friendly. He slapped Brad on the back.

"Hey, Dude." He said. "Tearful family send-off. Classic."

I rolled my eyes. Brad's roommate introduced himself as Ned. I think Brad is going to have an interesting college experience with this guy around.

We helped Brad get settled in a bit, then it was time to leave, minus one brother. Sigh... it's the end of an era. I know that we'll always be a family, Brad included, but things will be different without him around all the time.

As we were walking through the parking lot, I took Charlie's hand. I'm glad I still have one big brother in the house. We started talking and joking, planning the goofy care packages we can send to Brad, now that he's a college man. Charlie also promised he'd teach me how to video-chat with Brad. I have to admit, we planned some projects I'm really looking forward to. Life is full of changes. I guess whether they are good or bad depends on how you look at them sometimes.

Frankly,
Frankie

P.S.- Have you missed Emily and my posts on the Paranormal Doll Club blog (http://paranormaldollclub.blogspot.com/)? Have no fear (non pun intended). We'll be posting again beginning in September.

New year, new teacher

In a week and a half I'll be back in school! I'm excited but nervous, in that odd empty-feeling way. Paige is visiting her Yia-Yia (that's Greek for Grandma) outside of Chicago this week, and I really miss her, although I'm sure she's having a great time. She'll be back Thursday. She took a plane by herself! What a great end of Summer adventure. I'm happy for her, but I can't wait for her to come home.

Yesterday I was really bored, and I figured Paige's mom probably misses seeing my adorable face around the house while Paige is away, so I decided to stop by for a visit. I rang the doorbell, and finally Ms. Shepherd answered. She was cooking when I came to visit. She offered me a plate of cookies. They had raisins in them, and they were spicy. I ate them while we chatted. She seemed kind of lonely. Paige is her only kid, and the house seemed very empty and big. We got to talking about the new school year. I said I was happy that Paige and I are in the same class this year.

"Is Miss Reese nice?" I asked. That's my new teacher's name.

"Ah! You mean Mr. Reese." Ms. Shepherd said, smiling.
"He's very nice. This is his first year teaching at our school. You'll like him."

Paige's mom is the music teacher, so naturally she has the inside scoop. I trust her opinion. She's a very cool teacher, so I'm sure Mr. Reese will be cool too. I've never had a male teacher before. I think it'll be a breath of fresh air. I can only imagine the silly names Mason will think up for Mr. Reese though, because he's in my class as well. Last year, he got lunch detention for calling Mrs. Applebaum "Mrs. Applesauce." I think Mr. Reese's potential nicknames write themselves, unfortunately. I told this to Paige's mom, and she said;

"I'm sure he's heard them all, teaching elementary school."

Then, I heard my mom calling me from the porch for dinner, so I said goodbye, and left feeling a little bit better about the school year ahead.

Frankly,
Frankie

Decisions, Decisions...

Hey everyone!
Have you ever had a hard decision to make? I have a really important decision to make right now. Last week, my mom said that when school starts, I may quit taking ballet if I want to. At first I thought I might stick with ballet. I haven't improved too much, but I'm not terrible at dancing. I've even made a few friends. Then... a complication came along. Yesterday, I got my back to school info in the mail, and in the envelope was a list of extracurricular activities I can choose from this year. One club really caught my eye; Art Club. I love to draw and make craft projects. This club would be perfect for me! The only problem is, Art Club is the same day as ballet. It starts at 3:05, and ballet starts at 3:15. Ballet is halfway across town from my school, on top of that. What's a girl to do? I can't be in two places at once. So I have to choose between the two.

I called Paige and asked her advice. Paige said she think Art Club would be more fun. She is joining, and we can be in it together. Plus, her mom can drive us home afterward, since she is a teacher. If I pick ballet, I'll have to take an unfamiliar school bus to class, and that makes me a bit nervous. Being in this club with Paige sounds like so much fun, I have to admit.

Next, I asked my mom what she thinks. She thinks art Club would be something that I could really excel in, but she says she'll miss seeing me dance. She said it's ultimately my choice, though she is more comfortable with the transportation arrangements for Art Club.

Then, I asked my brother Charlie what he thinks. He said he thinks I'd like Art Club much more, but he knows deep down that I do enjoy ballet. He also said I should ask myself what to do instead of other people.

So I did. I closed myself in my room, and thought, and thought, and thought about it. I already take piano twice a week. And I have to practice a lot to stay proficient, since I'm not exactly a natural talent. Then, I am also taking Spanish this year. I know I will have to study for that pretty hard. Then I have my morning and evening chores. I also need "me time," to do all the things I do, like hang out with Paige, play with my dog, swing on my tire swing, watch TV, read, etc. I consider myself a well rounded individual, but sometimes I just like to chill and do nothing. Will I have time for everything with ballet in the mix? Maybe not. I know Art Club will be fun, and I'd still have time to do other things. I'd be sorry to see Paige going to meetings without me. I would have joined Art Club without even thinking twice, if I wasn't taking ballet. And although I like ballet class, I don't feel very dedicated to it at all. Ballet is all about dedication and discipline. If I don't feel like I can put all it takes into ballet, why take it? After taking all this into consideration, I made a decision. I decided that I'm going to quit ballet, and join Art Club this year. As you can see, it wasn't a very easy decision, but I know it is the right one for me.

Frankly,
Frankie

Traveling Tirya's Visit!

Hey everyone!
I've been busy this week because my good friend Tirya is visiting from Oregon. Tirya and I have been friends for a few years. She's really cool, and we always have a good time when she visits. We snapped a few pictures of Tirya playing outside:

These are pictures of Tirya playing with a rooster! He let her pet his feathers.

Here is Tirya with Tanner the goat. Tanner likes to pose for pictures.


Here is Tirya on the tire swing. I think she looks like a model! We took turns spinning each other on the swing. It was so much fun!

Thanks for letting me share Tirya's visit with you!

Frankly,
Frankie

Ballet? Me?

Two weeks before school ended for the Summer, my Mom casually mentioned that I would be trying a new Summer activity this year. A few days before school ended, she told me what that activity would be: ballet! As I've said, my Mom believes everyone should have an education in the arts, which is why I take piano. But ballet? Me? I'm a spunky tomboy, not a ballerina! Beth is a ballerina. She is tall and graceful, and oh so elegant. That just isn't me. She has been taking ballet since she was three. I am 10 1/2 and I have never even attempted ballet. I didn't think Mom could be serious.


Then, last week, Mom asked me if I wanted to go shopping with her. I agreed. We went to the mall, and somehow ended up in the store that sells dance clothes. Mom got a sparkle in her eyes, as she sorted through shiny tulle skirts, and leotards. She held a pink leotard up to me and said it was perfect. Then, she started picking out a full dance outfit and led me to the dressing room. I got all decked out in the clothes, planning to hate them, but I was surprised to find I actually liked how I looked. Mom said I was the cutest thing and made me strike a pose for a photo op outside the dressing room.

We only left with the pink leotard, and delicate, soft pink ballet shoes. A few days later was my first class. I was so nervous. I had butterflies in my stomach as we arrived at Beth's dance school. A bunch of girls were going into the school as I was. They carried themselves so gracefully. I was slouching, wearing jeans with a rip in the knee (and not the kind that makes expensive jeans look "distressed," but the kind that comes from falling off a tire swing). I straightened myself up, and entered the school. Girls, and a few boys, were bustling around the building. I found my way to the dressing room, and put on my new dance outfit. Then, feeling more self confident, I entered the dance studio.

My teacher, Miss Carpenter, is beautiful. She has flaming red hair that she wears in a tight bun, and very pale skin. She speaks so softly, but is very firm. What I find funny is that she has something in common with Miss Basso, my piano teacher: calling me by my full name, Francesca. Surprisingly, I wasn't the oldest kid in the beginner's class. There is another girl, Claire, who is twelve, and Serena who is eleven, plus a few other ten year olds. The rest of the class is about 6-9 years old. I learned the basic positions pretty easily. These are the first things we learned after warm-ups. Miss carpenter even complimented me a few times. After my second lesson, I felt like the girls that you always read about in those books that are on everyone's bookshelves; the awkward underdog who is forced into ballet (or horseback riding, music, gymnastics, etc.) by her well-meaning mother and ends up not only loving the activity, but discovering she is a natural, and becoming accomplished, and maybe getting a parade in her honor. Okay... so maybe I didn't instantly become a prima ballerina, and I probably won't ever become any kind of ballerina, but I didn't dislike ballet as much as I thought I would. And, after class ended, I went home, put on my old denim shorts and tee shirt, and went outside, barefoot, to play on my tire swing. This spunky tomboy was back in business.

So, the moral of the story is; it's okay to try new things, as long as you stay true to who you are.

Frankly,
Frankie

Book Review of the Month: June

Hi everyone!

Okay, so I've been thinking... I've really enjoyed my school project to read a book and review it every month, and I've had fun reviewing the books I read on my blog. So, why should I stop just because it's Summer vacation! So, here's my first installment of Book of the Month: Summer Edition.

Keeper of the Doves
By Betsy Byars (reviewed by Frankie)

Summery:
Keeper of the Doves is about a young Victorian girl named Amen McBee, and her four sisters. Together they grow up in fear of the strange man, Mr. Tominski, who lurks around their home and is known as the "keeper of the doves." But one day, Amen's father catches the girls making fun of Mr. Tominski, and they find out that Mr. Tominski is not only their father's friend, but is considered a member of the family because he saved Mr. McBee's life many years ago. After that, Amen begins to look at Mr. Tom in a different way; as the gentle man he is, who spends his days caring for doves. But Amen's sisters still fear him. Then, a terrible mistake changes everyone's life.

My thoughts:
I really liked this book. It was a nice story about people and forgiveness. I think the main message of the book is that no matter how small a person's world seems, every person has value. I'll never forget this sad-sweet story. I enjoyed it. It was a very thought provoking story.

My rating: 4/5 stars

See the author's website here: http://www.betsybyars.com/doves.html


Frankly,
Frankie

School's out forever!

Well, just until September, anyway... but I'm still psyched!

Monday is the first official day of Summer vacation. We had a half-day yesterday, which is always welcome in my book. We had a class picnic in the park to celebrate the end of the year. It was a lot of fun. And the weather was perfect- not too hot or cold, with big fluffy clouds in a blue, blue sky.

We didn't even have to bring a bagged lunch from home! The cafeteria ladies made us a picnic lunch. Mrs. Applebaum brought picnic blankets for us to spread in the grass. I shared a blanket with Paige, Lanie, Beth, and this boy named Mason (who I sort of have a crush on). We had hot dogs, potato chips in those little individual bags, macaroni salad, juice boxes, and for dessert we had cupcakes. It was great! Ms. Gillis's class was picnicking on the other side of the park. Ms. Gillis is the other fifth grade teacher. Some of my friends are in her class, like Sunny, Rebecca, and Gwen. We waved to each other from where we were eating. Mason ate three hot dogs! Paige couldn't believe her eyes, but Mason has been to my house for dinner, so I wasn't too surprised.

After we ate, we could go play with Ms. Gillis's class. We played on the playground for a while. Paige and I mostly swung on the swings. Sunny and Rebecca introduced us to a new girl in their class. She's from Hawaii! Her name is Kanani. She has super long hair to her knees! I've never seen hair that long in my life. She and Lanie really hit it off. I think they will be good friends.

After playing for a while, Mrs. Applebaum and Ms. Gillis brought out big pans of bubble solution and lots of flyswatters, and showed us how to make lots of bubbles with them, but dipping the flyswatter in the soap. You wave the flyswatter around in front of you, and you get tons of shiny bubbles. It was a blast! The new girl, Kanani, looked almost like a fairy princess, waving her bubble wand, with her long hair flying around. For a present, the teachers gave everyone a regular sized bottle of bubbles. My bottle was green. After that, it was time to go back to school and get ready to go home. I almost didn't want to leave. It was a perfect day.

But, it's now Summer vacation! Summer vacation is like a picnic every day! This year was one for the record books- my best friend, Paige, moved here, I was in my first piano recital, and my end of the year report card was pretty good. But now that it's over, I just have to say...

...Welcome, Summer!



Frankly,
Frankie

Anne Shirley, Paige, and Me

Anne of Green Gables, by L.M. Montgomery is one of my favorite books. It's the perfect, cozy, carefree book to read under a shady tree on a breezy summer day. My mother and I read it together a few years ago and I've loved it ever since. Now I have a special hardcover edition that I treasure. I guess I love this book so much because I see myself in Anne Shirley in some ways. Anne has a big imagination, and so do I. Sometimes it runs away with both of us! Anne's imagination especially reminds me of myself when she and Diana imagine that the woods are haunted and Anne scares herself. I've done things like that many times! Anne is also adopted by Matthew and Marilla, and I was adopted too, only I was just a baby when I was adopted, unlike Anne who was eleven.

But mostly, Anne reminds me of myself in her friendship with Diana Barry, her "bosom friend." I have a friend like this too. My best friend, Paige Shepherd. Paige moved next door to me last year. Paige comes from Chicago. Her mother and father are divorced, and her mom is a music teacher. She and Paige moved here because Paige's mom wanted to teach in a more rural area. So, they moved into an old "fixer-upper" house next to mine. I met Paige last Summer, when I was actually sitting under my favorite shade tree, reading Anne of Green Gables. There was a moving truck at the old house next door, and I kept seeing a tall woman with curly black hair, carrying things inside. But I didn't think too much of it, and kept reading. I was deep into my book. Then, a girl about my age stepped out of the old house. She looked over my way, and I waved. She waved a small wave, and walked toward me.
"Hi." Said the girl. "I'm Paige Shepherd." She dug her bare toes into the grass.
"I'm Frankie Schafer," I told her. "Are you moving in next door?"
Paige nodded. "My mom and I are moving in today," she said.
"I'm glad," I told her. "I've been hoping for a girl my age to move into that house. I'm sure we will be friends! 'Bosom friends,' even!" I said, quoting Anne.
Paige laughed, looking at my book, which I set on the ground.
"I know what that's from. You're reading Anne of Green Gables! I love that book! Have you ever read it before?"
I nodded. "At least four times already. I love it too."

I patted the grass next to me, and Paige sat down. I showed her the pretty illustrations in my book, and we talked as if we'd been friends our whole lives. She told me about her old apartment in Chicago, and her interest in art, and her pet cat. I told her about my family's farm, and my older brothers, and my piano lessons. She reminded me a lot of Anne's friend Diana, with her long, wavy black hair. She doesn't have black eyes like Diana does though, but they are a nice light blue. I thought; if only I had long red braids and freckles, we'd be a perfect pair. But my lack of red braids didn't stop us from being kindred spirits, just the same as Anne and Diana.

Frankly,
Frankie

Baby Love

I wanted to share some pictures of my good friend, Sunny Williams, and her baby sister, Sari Joy.

Aren't they adorable? These pictures are from last Winter, so Sari Joy has really grown since then.

Look how tiny and sweet she is! My mom babysits Sunny and Sari sometimes, so I get to play with baby Sari often. She has the cutest little toes and fingers.
Sunny is a very proud big sister.

Hope you enjoyed seeing pictures of my favorite baby!

Frankly,
Frankie

Julie and the bullies

There's this girl that goes to my school... we'll call her Julie (because that's her name ;) ). Anyway, Julie seems pretty nice, but on Monday, during recess, an older girl started picking on her. Then the girl's friends joined in. It wasn't a good sight at all. The one girl took Julie's lunch bag, and she and her friend started playing keep away with it, tossing it back and forth over Julie's head. Julie got upset and tried to grab it back, but they were too tall and fast for her. Since then, they have been mocking Julie all week. I wanted to say something to them and make them stop, but I was scared of those sixth graders. I'm much shorter than the bullies (okay, so I'm a shrimp). Paige was scared too, even though she is the tallest fifth grade girl.

Paige's mom is a teacher at my school, so after school, we told her about what happened. Ms. Shepherd said we did the right thing to tell her, because she can talk to the bullies' teachers about what these girls are doing, but there is something else we should have done. She said we should have been better bystanders. That means that if we see something bad happen, like bullying, we should do our best to help the person who is being picked on, by telling the playground monitor when it's happening so she can stop it. Ms. Shepherd said that when she and Paige moved here, I was a good bystander by reaching out to Paige and being a friend when other kids were teasing Paige about being the new girl. She said we should do the same for Julie now. Paige and I agreed that we need to be brave and stand up for our classmate.

Julie is in our art class, so today Paige and I sat by her. We talked all while we were working on our art projects. We are making kites with streamers. Julie's kite is so beautiful. It's an orange and red dragon kite with gold glitter on it. It looks as if it could really breathe fire. Paige told her that she liked her kite, and asked how she learned to make such pretty things. I complimented her kite too, and it turns out that Julie's mom is an artist! That's so cool. My kite was supposed to be a beautiful fish, but it looks more like a fish that was already in a tuna can. Paige's kite is pretty good though, I have to admit. It's dark blue with the moon and stars painted on it. Julie invited us to see her mother's art studio on Saturday. She told us her parents are divorced. Paige's parents are divorced too, so they have something in common. She also has an older sister. I have two older brothers, and it turns out my brother, Charlie and Julie's sister are in the same grade! We had a great time together in art, but Julie also said that the bullies don't just tease her at recess. They also pick on her on the bus. We felt sorry that Julie was going through that. I put my hand on her shoulder and told her we would play together at recess, and if anyone bothered us we would stick together.

Then, recess came. The moment of truth. Paige got a ball from the recess shed, and we played four square. It was so much fun. We were having a great time, until the bullies started to approach Julie. Paige and I stood our ground and stood next to our new friend. They started teasing Julie, and I told them to leave us alone or we would tell the playground monitor. They laughed and called me a baby.

Paige turned to them and said; "My friend is not a baby. Please leave us alone."

The biggest girl laughed and said; "Who's going to make us?"

Then they tried to grab our ball from Julie, but a shadow fell over them. They turned around with a look of shock. It was Mrs. Harkness, the world's toughest sixth grade teacher, who happens to be the playground monitor this week. They were caught red handed! The bullies have lunch detention tomorrow and Monday.

It felt good to stand up for someone else, and now Paige and I have a new friend!

Frankly,
Frankie

Book Review of the Month: May

This month I read a really good mystery. Summer is coming, and it's my favorite time of the year to read spooky books, because of the lazy days and rumbling thunderstorms. Summer sets the perfect mood for getting lost in a bone chilling story. So, I decided to start the season off right with this book:

Deep And Dark And Dangerous
By Mary Downing Hahn
(reviewed by Frankie)

Summary:

Deep And Dark And Dangerous is about a thirteen year old girl named Ali, who finds a mysterious photo of her mother and aunt as children. Another girl was once in the photo- a girl who's image has been torn out. All that's left of the girl is the letter "T" written on the back. Ali questions her mother and aunt about the identity of "T," but no one will tell her. They say they can't remember, but Ali suspects that they just don't want to remember.

Then, Ali's aunt invites her to stay at the family's cabin by the lake for the Summer. The same cabin where the mystery photo was taken. Ali jumps at the chance, despite her mother's fears. When they arrive at the cabin, things seem normal. Ali spends her time at the lake playing with her cousin Emma, and the lazy Summer days take her mind off of the girl in the photo. But then, they meet an unfriendly girl named Sissy who seems to have a frightening affect on Emma, and an irrational hatred for Ali. Ali thinks Sissy's games and teasing are getting dangerous, but Sissy may be hiding a secret that's even more dangerous, and Ali sets out to find out just what that secret is.

My Thoughts:
This book was so good! It had the makings of a perfect mystery- a hidden family secret, a mysterious stranger, and a spooky setting. I really enjoyed it. The descriptions of the lake and the cabin, and Ali's frustration at trying to uncover a family secret really drew me in. It's a great book to read on a dark and stormy night. It was full of suspense, kept me guessing until the end, and I loved it! I think anyone who likes mysteries and ghost stories would also love this book.

My rating: 5/5 stars

To see more about this book, check out the author's site: http://www.hmhbooks.com/features/mdh/ghoststories/deepanddark.html

Frankly,
Frankie

Frankie's Top 10 Plans for Summer Fun!

I know that Spring has just Sprung, but I'm already excited for Summer. I have been planning all the things I want to do when school gets out. I'm ready for a fun-filled Summer vacation! I can hardly wait!

Top 10 Summer Plans:

1. Go to Beth's big sister's wedding

2. Eat lots of pineapple ice cream! (it's my favorite flavor)

3. Help my friend Kit build a tree house

4. Camp as often as possible

5. Make a book club with Paige

6. Pick blueberries with Paige and our moms

7. Lay in the grass and watch the clouds float by

8. Go fishing with my dad

9. Make a lemonade stand

10. Watch fireworks on the 4th of July

It's going to be an awesome Summer. The best ever! What are you most looking forward to this Summer?

Frankly,
Frankie

Easter Dress Fashion Show

Today my friends, Paige and Sunny are visiting. We decided to have an Easter dress fashion show, to show off the dresses we are going to wear tomorrow. We all love to dress up in fancy clothes for holidays.

This is me in my favorite Easter/Spring dress ever:

This is Paige in her pretty new dress:


This is Sunny. I think she looks very elegant:
What do you think of our fashion show?

Happy Spring, everyone!


Frankly,
Frankie

Happy Earth Day!

Happy Earth Day, Everyone!

Today is a very special day, to think about and celebrate the wide, wonderful, wild world we live in!

What are you doing for Earth Day? In honor of this most auspicious day, I "planted" a digital tree. As you can see, it's an apple tree!

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I also plan to do a few more simple things for the earth this year. There are so many things that even a kid like me can do for the planet! I can:

-Use less water. Try not to leave the water running when I brush my teeth.
-Turn the lights off when I am not in a room.
-Shut off the TV when I'm not watching it.
-Use both sides of my paper.
-Ask my teacher about starting a recycling program in my classroom or school.
-Put a bucket outside to collect rainwater in. I will use it for watering my garden or other plants.
-Always leave the outdoors neater than I found it.

Frankly,
Frankie

Weekend House guests!

This past weekend was great! I've been meaning to write about it. My good friends, Mischa and Alexis Evans, came to stay the weekend with their family! I haven't seen them in a while. They are nine year old identical twins. Anyway, when they came, they looked adorable as usual:

This is them when they first arrived. Alexis is wearing red, Mischa is wearing purple. Their mom and my mom were roommates in college. When they started reminiscing about the good old days, we ran off to start our weekend of fun :) .

Mischa and Alexis have three siblings. Lenny, who is 14, Angie, who is 16, and Lydia who is 5. Lydia is mostly a pest, but she is adorable anyway. You know what is very interesting, though? My brother Charlie has a major crush on Angie. So, the logical way to start our weekend fun was to hide and spy on our older siblings. It's way funny. Charlie doesn't even act like himself around Angie. He blushes, and can't think of anything to say to her. They eventually caught us spying, so we went outside to play on my tire swing. We took turns pushing each other on the swing. For lunch, we had an indoor picnic because it was still windy and blustery out, but still very Springy.

That night, the three of us (and Lydia) settled down to watch a new movie on Disney Channel called Lemonade Mouth. It was really, really good. It was about five kids who meet in detention and start a band (called Lemonade Mouth). My favorite character was Olivia. The music was really good too. I thought it was very inspiring. Then it was time for bed, so we all raced upstairs. Mischa and Alexis bunked with me for the weekend. My room isn't the biggest, so it was rather crowded. They slept on the big air mattress on the floor. We pretended like we were camping in the woods.

The next day, we had waffles for breakfast, and then I...wait for it...had to go to my piano lesson anyway :(. That was sort of a drag, but I didn't mind too much because I'm really improving on my recital piece. I really am (I've kept my promise to practice an hour a day). Maybe someday I'll be famous like Lemonade Mouth? After I got back, we played for the rest of the day. We had to play with Lydia. She is the sort of little kid who hangs onto the big kids, but it feels good to be admired so. That night, Angie did our hair for us. Mischa and Alexis have cute hair. She made French braided pigtails. She tried to style mine the same, and the twins and I pretended like we were triplets! But my hair doesn't hold styles well. It's too slippery and sleek! So, the braids loosened up and fell out.

Sunday was fun too, but kind of bittersweet, because they were going home that afternoon. We all went to church together, then my mom and Mrs. Evans finally cornered us to look at their old college albums. It was a very long trip down memory lane. But some of their memories were funny to hear. Apparently, my mother was a prankster back in the day! Then, for the rest of the day, we walked my dog and watched movies, just doing lazy things to make the day last longer. And then, they went home. I can't wait until they come to visit again!

Frankly,
Frankie

Book Review of the Month: April

In school, we have a monthly English project that I really like. My teacher, Mrs. Applebaum, makes school a lot of fun. We read one book each month, then we write a book review and make a project about the book (whatever we want, as long as it has to do with the book). We move our desks into a big circle, and go around the circle, each person sharing their review and project. I thought I'd share my book reviews here each month, since I enjoy reading the books and writing about them so much. This month, I read a great book!

Catherine, Called Birdy
By Karen Cushman (review by me- Frankie)

Summary:
Catherine, Called Birdy is about a spunky fourteen year old Medieval girl. The book is in diary form, so Catherine writes firsthand about her life in her father's manor. She writes about her family, friends, and ideas. But Medieval life isn't always easy. First, Catherine meddles in the lives of her uncle and best friend, which leads to trouble. Then, Catherine's greedy father decides to find her a husband. The richest husband possible. No matter what he looks like or how old he is! After discovering that she can't possibly become a monk, traveling minstrel, or run away and become a puppeteer to escape her fate, Catherine finds ways to repel her would-be husbands with trickery and sass. But unfortunately, the suitor Catherine dislikes the most proves to be not so easy to get rid of.

My thoughts:
Catherine, Called Birdy was a really good book. Karen Cushman is already one of my favorite authors. I liked that Catherine was not an ordinary Medieval girl. She was funny and feisty, but sometimes a "glass half empty" type. I sort of liked that about her though. A girl can't be funny and feisty all the time, can she? I liked reading about her daily life. I also liked reading about Medieval life in general, like the remedies people used to cure people, Medieval manners, religion, hygiene (not for the squeamish), and the holidays and celebrations. Catherine was a very entertaining character. I thought she was very clever.

My rating: 5/5 stars. I wouldn't change much about this book. I loved it!

See more about the book here, on Karen Cushman's website:
http://www.karencushman.com/books/catherine.html

So, if you're wondering what I did for my project on the book, I'll tell you all about it. I loved the fancy way the first letter of every chapter in Catherine, Called Birdy was written. The letters were inside of a rectangle, and had really beautiful designs all around them. Inspired, I decided to do something using that design. With a little help from the internet, I discovered that the fancy design was called "illuminated manuscript." So, for my project, I made a journal, by covering a mini composition notebook in grocery bag paper, so it would look old. Then, on the cover, I carefully drew an F for Frankie in my own illuminated manuscript design. In the first few pages of the journal, I wrote some journal entries about my life as if I were in Medieval times. I decorated those pages with illuminated manuscript designs too. I think it turned out well. I had a lot of fun making the project, and now I have a neat journal to remind me of this book!

Frankly,
Frankie

Chicken Bite!

As you know, I live on a farm. It's usually pretty fun. The animals become friends to me. Sometimes I pretend that I can talk to animals and they can talk to me. I talk to them, and imagine what funny or smart things they would say back. There is this one rooster we have that I really like. He's friendly and has the most beautiful feathers; black, with rusty orange and iridescent green. He has little, beady golden eyes. If any animal could ever talk to me, I bet it would be him. I can just tell he's intelligent.

Well, a few days ago, I was feeding the chickens. That rooster was following me around. I looked down at his smart little eyes. His glossy feathers were shining. I wanted to pet him.

"Don't pet him," I told myself. But the thought nagged at me. So, I threw caution to the wind and reached down to pet the rooster's back. But before my hand touched his feathers... chomp! He closed his beak around my index finger*. I jerked my hand back in surprise. I just been bitten by a chicken!

So, the moral of the story is, never try to pet poultry.

Frankly,
Frankie

* Don't worry. The bite didn't hurt. It just felt like a squeeze around my finger.

Piano Lessons

Every Thursday afternoon and Saturday morning, I have piano lessons with Ms. Basso. My mom thinks everyone should be educated in the arts, so my brothers took piano with Ms. Basso, and now the tradition has been passed on to me. We have a piano at home. It was my Mom's. Her father gave it to her for eighth birthday. Some of the keys stick, and the bottom is covered with marks from my brothers crashing their toy cars into it when they were little. But it is my Mom's prized possession. So, I've been taking piano since I was six. Sadly, I haven't improved much.

It finally stopped raining, and the sun is shining. Today after school, I headed to lessons. I found a long stick along the way, and a dragged it along the dirt road, dawdling my way to Ms. B's. When I got there, Beth was just leaving. Beth is my good friend, who also takes piano. She is truly talented at it. I waved to her. She waved back, and I let myself in.

Ms. Basso is an interesting lady. My brothers say she is eccentric. My Mom says she is gifted. She collects antique metronomes, and sometimes on my Saturday lesson, she eats a tuna sandwich. She was left at the alter by a postman fifteen years ago. She talks about it a lot. So, today I sat next to her on the piano bench.
She said; "Hello, Francesca. I trust you have been practicing?"
I nod my head. Ms. B. is the only person who calls me Francesca (besides my parents, when I'm in trouble). She's proper like that. She asked me to do my warm-ups, and I did.
" Wrists up, Francesca," she said. I lifted my wrists. After my warm-ups, I had to practice my latest piece. I have been practicing for a month now, but I still haven't mastered it. Ms. Basso says I am a sloppy player. As I pounded out the piece on the piano, my fingers began to sweat, and slid between two keys, pressing them both down at once. My neck burned red with embarrassment.
"Just keep going, dear." Ms. Basso said.
I did, and eventually finished the piece. Then I had to play it again. And Again. The last time I played it, the tune was actually close to what it should sound like. A personal best!
Ms. Basso seemed happy. "See now, if you'd just concentrate, Francesca. You could be my star pupil. I want you to practice this piece for no less than an hour a day at home."
"I will." I said.
She put a star sticker on my practice chart, and winked.

What is so special about this piece? I am playing it in Ms. Basso's Spring recital! When she asked me to be in the recital, Mom took me out and got me a special dress and everything. I picked the prettiest dress I could, thinking that if I have a really "wow" dress, my playing will sound better. Good thinking, right?

Here I am in my recital dress


Frankly,
Frankie