First Day of School

It still very much feels like summer (we're on day I-don't-know-how-many of 100+  temps), but school is in session. We're back at it ... 

Emma started 5th grade this year!

She and Steve took the last first day walk to Daffron. It's hard to believe we'll be done with elementary school after this year. It's been so awesome to have both girls attend our neighborhood school for six years.

This year, 5th graders got to pick their own lockers!

Emma already plans to take advantage of 5th grade by serving on Safety Patrol, doing the KDAF news, and running for student council!

Sara started 9th grade. I almost can't stand it. I am excited for her - high school is so fun! But my heart is already breaking knowing how quickly these four years will fly by.

The start of school means cheer is in full swing; games start soon. Sara's afterschool Starbucks trips with friends are back up and running ... and I'm just thankful for any time she wants to spend with me. I was able to get a silly "wolfpack" out of her on our Target run yesterday!

I think Jim was more exhausted by the first week of school than anyone. He's been glad to have everyone home this weekend.

We had a great start to the year! Hoping the next several months follow this lead.

summer lovin'

 The end of our summer was full of memories. Sara was thrilled to finally have her braces off! Before high school was the goal, and it happened.

Family (forced) fun pool time! It hasn't been the most refreshing body of water recently, but we've still enjoyed the dips and time outside on the back patio.

Both girls got their own back to school shopping trips. Emma wanted to go to Nike, Adidas, Under Armor, and then Austin Avenue. She was quick and decisive!

Sara wanted lots of hours at the mall and then Taverna ... which I did endured because I love her. She is slow and methodical and expensive, but she's got great taste!

Sara also worked a lot of hours (double shifts many days) and was thrilled when her first direct deposit hit. Of course she wouldn't allow a picture of her actually working, so I got this one as Jim and I watched her walk in. She's really enjoying it and plans to stay on so her position can advance as she gets older!

We had an extended family outing for Big Steve's birthday. My goal for the night was to get a good family photo ... but walked away with just this blurry one. Oh, well.

We've been following the World Cup, of course, and went to a Game 1 watch at The Star. It was hot, but lots of fun with Emma's team. Too bad the US Women fizzled out so fast...

On a soccer note, Emma's new team primarily practices at the park down the street from our house. It's so convenient ... and Jim loves it, too, because it means more walks!

Sara and her friend took Emma along to see the Barbie movie, which they said was great! I'm sure I'll catch it once it comes to OnDemand at some point.

Last weekend we got back to school nails. Emma had her first pedicure in MN with my sister and she's all about the calf massage! I had to secretly take the photo of Sara. 

They're ready for school ... starting 5th grade and 9th grade tomorrow. Yesterday I took Sara to walk her schedule for the first time at Jasper, and today I took Emma to meet the teacher for the final time at Daffron. Huge milestones now and ahead, and they're here whether we're ready or not. I'm hoping it's a smooth, peaceful, and fun year for both girls. It all begins tomorrow!