"Hi!" says Sami. She looks quite innocent. 
She has now decided to munch on Annika's breakfast. Not so innocent anymore.
Apparently eating Annika's breakfast wasn't exciting enough. Standing on top of the table while eating Annika's breakfast - now that's a barrel of fun. 
If I'm gonna have to sit, them I'm gonna add some excitement by wearing these cool shades.
Labor Day weekend was finally cool enough to camp. We decided to start simple and camp in the backyard. 
Audrey and Sami enjoyed playing in the tent but we thought it best to have them sleep in their cribs. 
I haven't done the mini-marshmallow s'more since hunkering down in a hurricane (shout out to Shanda!). We didn't have Golden Grahams so we used traditional graham crackers. 
Lauren was all over anything containing chocolate and marshmallows. 
I peaked in after dark and found Karl, Annika, and Lauren playing "Go Fish" by lantern light. Everyone slept great (especially me - in the house).
Definitely a blush-worthy occassion!
Audrey and Dave were married at a beautiful Lutheran church in Soulard. 
Cool view of the arch from Laclede's Landing. 
Annika and Lauren thought it was pretty special that the Bride came and gave them a hug. 
Audrey even took time to dance with Lauren. Both Annika and Lauren loved the dancing.
It won't be long before the twins (Sami) start climbing out of the crib. We found this bunkbed on craigslist and moved Lauren out of her toddler bed. 
Annika and Lauren couldn't wait to climb to the top bunk. 
Let the fort building begin!
Grandma and Grandpa Pollack found these great rocking chairs at a flea market. Audrey loves to pick out a book and go sit in her chair - so cute! 
Shoes from our church second hand supply. Love it!
We found this swingset on craigslist too (Karl frequently threatens to hide the computer in order to curb my deal searching on craigslist). Karl was able to keep the fort in one piece thanks to an 18 foot moving truck that a buddy happened to be renting. Frannie, Annika, and Lauren couldn't wait to climb up the ramp. 
First time down the slide!
Karl puts on the finishing touches. 
After adding a toddler swing, we were good to go! Backyard fun to be had by all.
Not surprisingly, Lauren was acting a little goofy on her first day of school. 
This is Lauren with Annika's teacher. Why? Well, Lauren saw Annika getting her picture taken and immediately needed one as well. (This picture was taken at the open house the day before.)
Here's Lauren waiting in line at the opening prayer. 
Enjoying the playdo table. 
We have heard WONDERFUL things about Lauren's teacher, Mrs. Heinemann. Mrs. H showed Lauren where to hang her backpack.
The St. Louis Track Club hosted a 3K and kids run in our neighborhood (the 3K course went right in front of our house). Mary and I both ran it. Running by our house (and kids) gave us the extra burst of energy we needed to finish strong. 
Annika and Lauren's course was one time around the park. 
Running down the chute to the finish line!
The girls were pretty proud of their blue ribbons, but . . . 
they were just as excited about the ice cream treat waiting for them at home.
This was actually the open house the day before the "first day." Annika immediately made herself at home. 
As did the rest of the family. Yes, Sami is eating a crayon. 
Mrs. Hadden is Annika's teacher. This is her first year at CCS. She is VERY enthusiastic and Annika is really enjoying her. 
Best buds on the first day of school.
Annika, complete with backpack, lunch and new sneakers, is ready to go to full day Kindergarten. 
The whole school met outside on the parking lot/playground for prayer. Audrey and Sami weren't interested so they decided to try and find a way out. 
Annika in the Kindergarten line.
Annika's very own hook for her backpack. 
Annika found her seat and appeared a bit nervous. . .
Soon, she relaxed and completed her first assignment and handed it in to Mrs. Hadden. 
Annika loves school, but she is EXHAUSTED when she comes home at 4:00.
Aunt Lesley came to visit and we got to ride the carousel! 
Audrey and Sami were excited to put on Annika and Lauren's dresses - that is until they tried to walk! 
Fun with Aunt Lesley
Nobody told us the water was supposed to stay in the water table. 
The area under the changing table has suddenly become the place to be.
Remember the beans that Grandpa helped Annika and Lauren plant? Here's part of the yummy crop!
Audrey absolutely loved the zoo. She points and gets so excited - especially in the bird house.
The St. Louis zoo is 100 years old. A new exhibit has opened to mark the occasion. It's fascinating to read about the price of a hippo back in 1910.
The girls crowd around the door to wave goodbye to Daddy.
