Back to School 2009 Edition

It seems like we just completed the fastest summer on record. Whoosh! It was gone just like that.

Today, Parker, Mallory and Alex headed back to school. This year, I have one in high school, one in junior high and one in elementary school. (Next year, when Nate is home from his mission, we'll have one in college, too!) Okay, so now I'm thinking that not only has the summer gone by way too fast, but my kids are growing up way too fast!

The first day of school is always a reminder that my kids are one year older... (of course I don't get any older...just them!!) Especially hard for me this year was watching Mallory walk into the junior high, her pink argyle backpack slung across her shoulder. She was so excited about going to junior high, which made me glad. For me, junior high was a difficult time, but as I watched Mallory walk away from the car, she seemed full of self-confidence and ready to take it on.

Last week, I took Mallory to the junior high to decorate her locker and to walk around and make sure she knew her way to all her classrooms. I took my camera along for the occasion. She was happy to let me document the occasion.

And this morning, we had to take our traditional first-day-of-school picture on the front porch.

Aren't they cute?

Alex -- the big 4th grader!

Mallory getting ready to walk into the school for the big first day!

Wolfe Family

I enjoyed getting to know this family as I did a photo shoot for them. Their little London is such a cutie and was so cooperative for her photo op. Here's a sampling from the session.

Garden Park Ward

I met up with Janae and Jen at the Garden Park Ward in Salt Lake a couple of weeks ago. I just about missed the get-together because I was running late....then I ran into construction along the way....By the time I got there, they were pretty much done shooting. I did get a few shots of Alex and some of Jen's darling little girl. I'd love to go back there and shoot again sometime. It's a fabulous location.

Stephen + Michelle -- Salt Lake Temple

It was tons of fun recently helping my friend Jen take pictures at her sister's wedding. Congrats, Stephen and Michelle. Here are a few of my favorites.

A Hero's Homecoming

I had the privilege of photographing the homecoming of some Utah troops coming home from Kuwait recently. What an emotional experience. We were able to go right to the gate to greet them. What fun it was to see these husbands and dads greet their wives and children.

Welcome Home!

Then, last week, I did portraits for one of these awesome families. Too much fun!!