Larsen Family

You couldn't really ask for much more. . . an absolutely beautiful October afternoon, a great backyard location, and a wonderful, fun-loving family.  We started off in the corner with the entire bunch.  The tree had just turned orange and added a wonderful touch of fall color.  We got each separate family, kids, boys, girls. . . the works.  We moved the the stone wall, and after much deliberation, some getting up and sitting down, and of course, a few grass stains, we finally figured it all out, and I think it turned out great.  

And look out for Isabelle and Mackenzie. . . they're certainly going to be famous models before too long!  : )

Pioneers Topple U. City

It was an incredible October night, and the Pioneers did not disappoint as they shut out the U. City Lions 21 - 0 to even their record at 3 - 3 as they prepare for District play.  The temperature was in the 70's, the band was rockin', the cheerleaders were rollin', The Pep Club was peppin', and the pommies were dancing as only they can.  Can it get any better than Friday Night in America?

Go Pioneers!!

Lydia M.

What an awesome evening!!  We've been trying to get Lydia's senior pictures done for a month now and we finally got it done.  We were supposed to do this a couple weeks ago, but I got sick and had to postpone.  Lydia was so gracious and understanding. . . and I don't think it could have turned out any better.  We had perfect weather, and Lydia just sparkled in front of the camera.

And I just LOVE it when Mom's come along.  They find good locations, fix hair, and help hold the transmitter.  Mom, you were great.  Thanks for sharing the entire family over the years.  Lydia is that last one, and she's such an amazing, fun, smart, and beautiful young lady.  

Lu Lu, you ROCK!!!

Turf-Fest Part 2, Soccer Style

It  was "Turf-Fest Part 2" as the soccer team made it's debut on the newly renovated stadium field, and I really like the way the game plays on turf.  Faster, cleaner, and brighter!  The Pioneers came out fired up, and it looked like they would take an early lead as they had several great chances and a couple balls off the post.  Pattonville hung tough and netted a goal midway through the half to take a 1-0 lead into halftime. (You know, you can never underestimate the mighty Pirates. . . Aaaarrrgh!)  (Kriewall, Pattonville c/o 1980)

I was unable to stay for the 2nd half, but win or lose, it was great to see this team play.  Lots of good guys, and I know the coaching staff is really enjoying this season, so that says a lot.   

Field Hockey Honors Seniors

It was brilliant planning by Athletic Director, Jeff Townsend, to schedule Turf Fest on the same night as the Field Hockey Senior Day game, hoping the overflow Field Hockey Crowd might stick around for the football game. . .

It was a beautiful afternoon full of sunshine, smiles, a few tears, and a win!  It's tough to see this group of 6 seniors go.  They've been a lot of fun to watch, and are wonderful young ladies.  Seniors were announced and then met by their parents.  Coach Woodard and Coach Kinsella were joined by Senior Principal, Chris Lindquist, and Dr. Holley and they netted out well-deserved hugs.  The players then all joined in to sing "Happy Birthday" to Grace.  Doc Holley and I agreed, these kids today are just better than we were, especially when it comes to taking care of kids who might need some special attention.  They "get it".  Moments like that make you proud to spend your days around these young people.

Bravo, Seniors!

Turf Fest

It was a beautiful October night and Kirkwood unveiled it's breathtaking new turf field as the Pioneers took on a battle-tested Parkway Central squad.  It was an action packed afternoon, starting with Field Hockey's Senior Day (a 3-0 win over Parkway West), leading into Turf-Fest in the Gym, and culminating with a hard fought football game.  

A high school football home-opener is always exciting, but even more so when it's been pushed back several weeks and you're rolling out the red carpet (in this case, the green carpet).  The band was rockin', as ususal, the cheerleaders got the crowd excited, and the pommies broke out the sparkles.  The Pioneers battled all night long, but a few timely turnovers deep in their own territory sealed their fate, and they fell to the Colts 17 - 10.  

Coach Irvin will use this week to help the squad bounce back as they prepare to take on University City in home game #2.  If you haven't had a chance to see the team or the beautiful new field, make plans to head out Friday night and see what has the whole community of Kirkwood so excited.  

Jenny P

What a fun morning!  Jenny P is a former student of mine, and just a wonderful young lady.  Last year, we shot her sister Laurie's Senior Pictures, so it was fun do Jenny's.  Mom was a big help again, fixing hair, lugging equipment, and holding the transmitter.  Jenny was fabulous from the start.  She has gorgeous blue eyes and a smile to match and just lights up the frame.  

It was supposed to be sunny all day today, but it was in the 50's and the clouds showed up immediately.  Then the rain started.  Jenny was a trooper, though, and stuck it out, even though she spent half the shoot shivering.  We laughed a lot.  So Jenny, remember, "Cross your BOOTS", "Hands Up", and "It looked good in New York". . .

Thanks for such an amazing and fun morning!!  You're beautiful!