lil' vikings fans

Steve was gone the last weekend in September, so I took full advantage of the opportunity to dress BOTH kids in purple and gold instead of having to put one in red, white and blue gear (which I really don't mind doing, just for the record- I'm a Patriots fan, too!). I absolutely love football season...Sundays are probably my favorite day of the week from September through December (longer, if things go well!). It doesn't hurt that the Vikings are 6-0...

pickin' apples with grandpa and grandma

We were able to squeeze a quick trip to the apple orchard in when Grandpa and Grandma were here a few weeks ago. We went to the same place as last year, and were excited to find that the Honeycrisps were ready to pick, and the trees were absolutely loaded with beautiful apples. We were able to fill our baskets to the top in no time at all. The kids also got to play on the big pile of hay bales and go for a hayride around the orchard, all of which is so much more fun when Grandpa and Grandma are there- we're so glad they were able to join us this year, and hope we can make it an annual event!

Grandpa helping to select just the right apples

Proud of their harvest

Mom finally got in on a picture just to prove she was there!

Happy apple pickers!

We love Grandpa and Grandma!

jolink/hammink/vanderstoep weekend

Every year my dad's side of the family (at least as many as we can convince to join us) gets together in the Minneapolis area for a weekend of fun, which typically revolves around a Twins game and a get-together at someones house for some good drinks, great food, and fantastic conversation. This year we gathered at Cousin Sue's house on Friday night, and then met again for the game on Saturday afternoon. Jackson and Olivia even got to go to the game, and they had a great time. I look forward to this weekend each year because it gives me an opportunity to catch up with some special people that I don't get to see as often as I'd like...I always vow to do a better job of keeping in touch, but somehow time just gets away from me, and before I know it, we're planning another September get-together! Regardless, I truly treasure these family relationships and the fun times we get to spend together- thanks to everyone who helps to pull this together ever year!

Aunt Sandy, Great Aunt Alice and Jackson

having some fun with the cards at Sue's house

Terry, Alice and Dad

A first for Jackson and Olivia...TAILGATING! (Olivia loved the grilled corn!)

Olivia hitching a ride into the Dome with Grandma

Jackson helping out at the after-game tailgating bash

Luck and Karen and the girls were at the same

game so they joined us afterwards for some fun

Sue and Lori

Tailgating entertainment for the younger crowd...yes,

we were the last ones in the parking lot!