Tina Sherman of Festus won first place with this shot of Ethan Speck, 3, sliding in the dirt in his Sunday best. Ethan is the son of Mike and Melissa Speck of Festus and the grandson of Lynn and Tina Sherman of Festus and Bob and Cathy Speck of Hillsboro.
- Boys will be boys
Deanna Clements of Pevely snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Rhianna White, then 11, with Rusty the horse. “Her cousin, Abbie Johnson, was holding Rusty’s lips up to make him smile,” Clements says. “I like to see my grandkids play and have fun together.” The photo is the third-place finisher.
- Horsing around
Deanna Clements of Pevely won fourth-place honors with this photo of her 6-year-old grandson, Noah Johnson, during a camping trip last fall. “He had lost both front teeth and was trying to eat a caramel apple,” Clements says. “He couldn’t get a bite of it, so I had to cut off a piece to get him started.”
- All I want for Christmas…
Beverly Bognar of Barnhart took fifth-place with this picture of her granddaughter, Natalie Bognar, 3, on Easter at the Festus home of Bognar’s daughter. “I love this photo because it shows the very essence of my granddaughter’s personality,” Bognar says. “She is a happy child, always singing and dancing. In the photo, she is pretending she is Elsa in ‘Frozen’, and was singing ‘Let it Go.’ I love the way her hands are curved in the bubbles, and the way you can see her hands and the background colors in the translucent bubbles.”
- She’s so bubbly
Jim Lambert of Festus took this picture of his grandchildren, Jakob and Kallista Fraelich, at Kallista’s first birthday party on March 11, 2006. “The photo pretty much speaks for itself,” he says. “Jakob is being a typical big brother who can’t wait another two months to blow out candles on his own birthday.”
- Can’t wait for my turn
Will Solomon of Imperial took this picture of his granddaughter, Ellie Solomon, just before one of her soccer games at St. Joseph School in Imperial last fall. “Ellie played goalie for her CYC soccer team,” he says. “I really enjoy taking photos of Ellie, before and during the game. She loves to play sports – volleyball, softball and soccer. My wifer and I rarely miss a game. Usually she will not sit still for me to take her photo, but this day she actually stopped and posed for me.”
- Getting her kicks
Mike Bradley of Pevely took this shot last year of his granddaughter, Lauren Patrick, then 8, in The Loop on Delmar Ave. in St. Louis. “We had just parked our car and were on the way to Fitz’s for ice cream when we passed the statue of Chuck Berry,” Bradley says. “Lauren spontaneously started playing air guitar. She is a creative, fun-loving, spontaneous young lady.”
- Rockin’ out
Donald Henderson of Crystal City captured this shot of his granddaughter, Aubrey Aileene Henderson, at a St. Louis Blues playoff game against Minnesota. “As I was taking it, some Minnesota fans commented that they were going to beat the Blues and go back to Minnesota with a two-game lead,” he says. “At that exact time, Aubrey stuck out her tongue. It struck us as funny.”
- Take that, Minnesota!
Sharon White of Barnhart spent Mother’s Day with family at her parents’ Farmington home. “It was my grandson’s first camping trip with his Nana,” she says of Logan Meadows, 6. She snapped this picture of him with some of granite boulders in his great-grandparents’ yard.
- Strong man
Susan Vaughn took this picture of her mother, Lequeta Sweeney, on Mother’s Day 2013, as she released a monarch butterfly she received as a Mother’s Day gift. Vaughn and her two sisters, Karen Vaughn and Amy Gans, gave their mom a butterfly chrysalis scheduled to open on Mother’s Day, and Sweeney and her grandchildren gathered at the Vaughn family farm south of Festus to watch the transformation take place.
“This was an amazing time to share with all the children,” Sweeney says, “and to see God’s creation and set it free.”
- Butterfly for Mother’s Day
Amy Petschonek of De Soto submitted this photo of her granddaughter, Amelia Petschonek, 10 weeks, taken at the baby’s home in May. “Amelia is the first grandchild in our family and is a blessing,” Petschonek says. “She is a sweet, happy, adorable baby.”
- Sweet and happy
Vanessa Guy of Crystal City snapped this shot on her camera phone of her husband, Danny Guy, with their 9-month-old granddaughter, Olivia Catherine Guy. It was taken May 16 at the home of the baby’s aunt, Christina Guy Mooney, in Imperial. “This is my first granddaughter from my oldest son, Danny Guy II, and his wife, Michelle,” Vanessa says. “Olivia is a very happy baby. She brings love, smiles and laughter to her grandparents’ lives every time we see her.”
- Grandpa's girl
Barbara Emert of De Soto took this photo of her granddaughter, Rebekah Goodman, at the little girl’s graduation from Happy Time Preschool in Arnold on May 15. “She had an amazing year and did a wonderful job performing for the ceremony,” Emert says. “I am so proud to have her as my granddaughter. I wanted our community to see how special this little girl is.”
- Graduation day
Helen Donahue of De Soto snapped this picture at Walther Park in De Soto following the June 1, 2013, wedding of her youngest daughter, Megan. Her grandsons, Clayton, left, and Maximus Rozycki, served as ring bearers. “The boys patiently endured multiple photos at church, one other park, a bus ride and then Walther Park,” Donahue says. “This picture is special to me because it captures their expressions of exhausted patience.”
- Lying down on the job
Judy Knowles of De Soto sent in this pjhoto, taken by her husband, Ray Knowles, of the couple’s great-granddaughter, Kallista Fraelich. Kallista, now 10, is a student in the Jefferson R-7 School District. “Kallista was about 2 or 3, sleepy and crabby,” Judy says. “She did NOT want her picture taken!”
- Aw, c’mon, guys – lemme ’lone
Donna and Richard Crosby of Festus submitted this picture of their new grandson, Dalton Asa Julian, taken at home on April 22. “Dalton laughed out loud for the first time when his mommy came into the room and talked to him,” Donna says. “Dalton was only 20 days old. My daughter, Michele, and son-in-law, Scott Julian, have tried for over 20 years to have a child and it was such a blessing when they found out they were pregnant. Dalton is a miracle baby.
- Laughing matters
Tina Sherman of Festus snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Aslyn Foveaux, then 3, at a pumpkin patch in Kansas. “It shows her whimsical personality,” Sherman says. Aslyn is the daughter of Jennifer and Rich Foveaux of Manhattan, Kan., and the granddaughter of Carol and Ken Foveaux of Kansas and Lynn and Tina Sherman of Festus.
- Hanging out at the pumpkin patch
Darla Ray of Festus will be sure to whisk this photo out when it comes time for prom some day. She snapped this picture of grandsons Shaden and Logan Ray at a family gathering in 2008, when both were 3 years old. “Their sisters dressed them up in dance costumes,” Ray says. “They didn’t care at that age, but now they are embarrassed!”
- Blackmail deluxe
Angie Bieser of Hillsboro and her husband, Harry, captured this treasured shot of their grandchildren in April. Because their son lives in New York, getting the whole family together can be rare. “This was the first time in a few years all six of our children and grandchildren were together,” Angie says. “We played kickball, flew kites, looked for frogs and turtles (found one!) and had a birthday party for our son’s dog.” From left are Evah Hoven, 1; Gwen Hoven, 6; Nora, Hoven, 3; Carter White, 9, holding Harrison Bieser, 9 months; Olivia White, 5; Isabella Beiser, 11; Lucas White, 5; and Abby Bieser, 8.
- The gang’s all here
Pamela Such of De Soto snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Anneliese Wiley, 3 months, during a trip to the St. Louis Zoo on May 17. “I’m overjoyed every time I get to visit her,” Such says of her first grandchild. “For this contest, I found it difficult to choose a photo to submit. Every photo I see of her smiling, I want to show it off to the world.”
- Zoofari
Colleen Rich of Arnold took this shot of her granddaughters, Gianna, left, and Kyla Rich, in the hammock on Father’s Day 2014. “They climbed into the hammock and cuddled with each other,” Rich says. “Grandpa was trying to poke them with a stick but Gianna grabbed it instead.”
- Let it go, Grandpa
Lisa Schneedle of De Soto captured the personalities of her granddaughters in this shot, taken during their first-ever trip to Grant’s Farm in September 2012. “The sign is perfect,” Schneedle says of the shot of Madalyn English, left, and Aaliyah English. “It’s like Aaliyah is saying, ‘Who, me? I wouldn’t bite!’ and Madalyn is saying, ‘Oh, but I will.’”
- Who, us?
Marline Crochunis said her grandson, Cohen Linderer, was extremely excited to show off his first-ever lost tooth for her in this photo, taken during a family vacation to Wisconsin Dells. “Shortly after the excitement was over, though,” she says, “worry set in about whether the Tooth Fairy would be able to find him.”
- But she’s got GPS, right?
Donna Jones of De Soto took this picture of her grandson, Austin Jones, meeting his new baby sister, Alexandria, minutes after the baby’s birth on Jan. 14. “Grandmother holds this picture special because it was the first meeting of my grandchildren,” Jones says. “Austin, who is 5 years old, was excited, happy and maybe a little bit apprehensive about his new sister.”
- She looks just like me!
Cecilia Greenlee of Hillsboro took this picture in 2009 of her grandchildren, Baylen Wright, then 6, and his sister, Nevaieh Wright, then 2, at Greenlee’s home. “One of their few times sharing,” Greenlee says of the siblings, who are now 12 and 8.
- A rare sighting
Janet Leitterman of Festus took this shot in Louisville, Ky., on May 17 of her five granddaughters: Amelia, Addison, Kylie, Ava and Nora. “We love all of our grandgirls,” she says. “It’s a true joy watching them grow up as friends.”
- Tripping the light fan-tastic
Peggy Heitert of Herculaneum snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Makayla Rose Heitert, on Easter Sunday. “Makayla was waiting patiently with her cousins to go Easter egg hunting,” Heitert says. “I took this without her knowing. When I saw the picture, I couldn’t believe how beautiful she is.”
- Surprise beauty
Sheryl Earls of Arnold had her camera handy on Christmas morning 2013 to capture this pensive shot of her grandson, Carson Earls. “Carson is our first grandchild and it has been a while since we had small children at Christmas,” she says. “He was 2 ½ and really understood what was going on. He had just settled into watching ‘Toy Story 3’ which he had gotten in his stocking.”
- Wonder of the season
Joyce Kinchen of De Soto captured this jungle moment with her granddaughter, Lilly Minden, in Kinchen’s front yard in September 2014. “Lilly had her face painted at church to look like a tiger,” Kinchen says. “She decided to hide in my pampas grass when I took the picture.”
- Eye of the tiger
Joyce Kinchen of De Soto took this picture of her granddaughter, Holly Minden, on Mother’s Day. “When it started to rain, we opened the back of my Escape (SUV) and pretended to be camping out,” she says. “To entertain us, she made duck lips with Pringles.”
- The original duck face
Mary Roqueplot of House Springs snapped her great-granddaughter, Jocelyn Nicole Beuchner, in the back seat during a day out together in March. “We went on an outing to look at nature at the Powder Valley Nature Center, then to McDonald’s for lunch,” Roqueplot says. “During our lunch, she said, ‘If you make a mess, they will make you go right out of here.’ With the sunglasses, I call her Miss Hollywood. She just made the day complete.”
- Miss Hollywood
Mary Roqueplot of House Springs sent a handmade quilt to her grandson, Caleb, at his home in California, but it never arrived, and the family was told it had been stolen. “On Dec. 26, the quilt was delivered to my son’s address, contents undisturbed,” Roqueplot says. “It was a gift from God.”
- A gift recovered
Patty Richards of Imperial sent in this comical shot of granddaughter Gracie Sommers and her best friend, Katelyn Thurman, both 7, during a trip to Six Flags St. Louis last summer. “Katelyn is the one in the shark,” Richards says. “This photo is special because the children are having so much fun together.”
- Sharknado!
Mary Zander snapped this picture of her grandson, Mason Oberle, last summer at her Festus home. “He’s so special to me,” Zander says. “If you could see this little guy, you’d know what I mean. He loves all animals. He thought he would wait and see if the turtle would pop out again.”
- Hello? Anybody home?
Jean Naeger of Cedar Hill couldn’t resist the temptation to put bunny ears on her grandson for this photo, taken on Easter in the backyard of Naeger’s sister-in-law’s home in Webster Groves. Even at 2 months old, little Owen Charles Strosahl doesn’t look all that thrilled, but Grandma had the last word. “He was just too cute,” she says.
- Is this really necessary?
Jean Naeger snapped this picture of her grandson, Evan Thomas Strosahl, then 3, in the fall of 2014, as he played in the leaves with his grandfather in the backyard of the Naegers’ Cedar Hill home. “You realize the simplest pleasures are the ones most dear,” Naeger says.
- Backyard fun
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro took these pictures almost 30 years apart. “Our son, John Wayne Long, is a Seabee in the U.S. Navy,” she says. “He and his wife, Erica, blessed us with a grandson, Elijah. I had saved this Indian drum and vest that belonged to John when he was a baby, and I bought the headdress for Elijah while on vacation earlier in the year.”
- Life father, like son (1985)
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro took these pictures almost 30 years apart. “Our son, John Wayne Long, is a Seabee in the U.S. Navy,” she says. “He and his wife, Erica, blessed us with a grandson, Elijah. I had saved this Indian drum and vest that belonged to John when he was a baby, and I bought the headdress for Elijah while on vacation earlier in the year.”
- Life father, like son (2014)
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro frequently carries her camera on a strap around her neck, just to capture moments like this one. She took this photo of her grandson, Kayden Richards, in June 2014 while he was visiting her Hillsboro home. “We went out into the yard on one of our ‘discovery walks,’” she says. “We love to look at our world and the surprises the yard has to offer. One day, we found a frog and then this worm crawling about. I picked it up and handed it to him. He was truly fascinated.”
- Slippery!
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro captured this tender moment between her brand new grandson, Braxton Richards, and his uncle. Her son, John Wayne Long, is holding his nephew for the first time. “John is away and out of the country so much,” she says. “This photo and this day was just a double batch of joy. We all appreciate these moments of joy and love.”
- Welcome, little one
Deanna Clements of Pevely said it’s not often anyone manage to grab a photo of her 18-month-old grandson, Carter Dorris. “He usually never stays still long enough for me to take any pictures of him,” she says. “But he finally let me take this picture of him with my phone. He is special to us because he’s the youngest of 14 grandchildren.”
- A rare sight
Eva Rosenthal of Hillsboro took this photo in 2010 in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. She and her two sons, who live almost the whole country apart, took a motor home camping vacation with their families. “This photo just happened; it wasn’t planned,” she says. “All the grandkids just wanted a different picture, and this is the result.” She said the children weren’t in any danger of falling off a cliff; that’s just an optical illusion. “We had a wonderful time together,” she says. From the bottom up are Grace, Ethan, Morgan, Ryan, Sydney and Tess Rosenthal.
- A stack of grands
JD and Chloe Allen of Festus sent in this picture they took of their grandchildren in 2009 in Pevely. From left are Logan KuyKendall, Josie Allen, Miranda Allen and Allison KuyKendall. “We had fun. It was a beautiful day with our beautiful grandchildren,” Chloe says. “What else could we ask for?”
- Kids in the grass
Debbie Markus took this picture of her granddaughter, Ellie Fay Markus, on March 1 in her Imperial home. “After we went to see Disney on Ice, she thinks she is a princess,” Markus says. “And so do we. She is always happy and has an outstanding personality.”
- Princess in the house
June Kreyling of Dittmer took this comical snapshot at a St. Louis store in 1989 of her two curious grandsons, Peter Kreyling and Matthew Kreyling, checking out a toilet lid display.”I’m not sure what they expected to find,” she says. “But I found a good photo opportunity in it.”
- Deep-seated curiosity
June Kreyling of Dittmer took this picture of her great-grandson, 9-month-old Raphael Kreyling, last December in her home. “I love the way Raphael seems to be pondering this large creature sitting next to him,” she says. “He is seemingly not afraid.”
- Snoopy and me
June Kreyling of Dittmer captured this picture of her great-granddaughter, 2-year-old Maggie Kreyling, on Dec. 27, 2014, in Mexico, Mo. “Maggie positioned herself on the kitchen floor two days after Christmas, seemingly relaxing after the holiday with her paper,” Kreyling says. “No doubt checking out the after-holiday sales. What could be cuter?”
- A little post-holiday reading
Gayle Lamb of Arnold captured this priceless shot of her two grandsons, Avrey, then 4, and Tony, then 6, during a visit to their great-grandmother, Eleanor Scheibelhut, at Mary Queen of Mother Nursing Home in 2008. “As we were beginning to leave, they wanted to give her a goodbye kiss,” Lamb says. “I just love the expression on my mom’s face, with one eye open and one closed, as they approach her with their loving kisses. She has since passed away, so this picture has even more sentimental value.”
- A smooch for great-grandma
Gayle Lamb of Arnold says efforts to get her own daughter, Kristyn, to eat peas as a baby met with little success. So when it came time for Kristyn’s son, Archer Schnakenberg, 11 months, to eat vegetables, Lamb thought she’d try carrots instead. “Whoa! I think his face speaks for itself,” Lamb says. “You’d have thought we gave him the dreaded peas. No matter what he eats, though, he is still the apple of our eye.”
- Carrots. Why did it have to be carrots?
Linda Poole of Crystal City took this photo in a special, new room she and her husband, Tom, have prepared in their Crystal City home since the arrival of their granddaughter, Maggie Elizabeth Bales, on April 12. “This photo was taken in the nursery we put together for Maggie’s visits,” Poole says. It was taken when she was 16 days old.”
In the crib with her are the 30-year-old twin dolls that were used in the cribs of Maggie’s mom, Laura Bennett Bales, and her twin sister, Crystal Bennett. “Tradition is very important to our family,” Poole says. “I kept them all these years, hoping to one day have them in the crib of my grandchild to enjoy. The passage on the cross above Maggie says it all.”
- Heirloom dolls
Mary Postal of Festus took this picture of her grandchildren, Arthur and Virginia Murphy, during a family vacation to Spring Lake, Mich., in August 2013. “This is my favorite picture of my grandbabies, because it captures the bond they share,” Postal says. “From the day Art was born, Ginny has proudly taken him under her wing to teach, protect and love. Ginny is showing Art a leaf and likely telling him everything he needs to know about trees.” Postal said she loves the look of the photo, and chose to print it in black and white deliberately. “They are sitting on the wooden steps of the old house we stayed in,” she says. “Something about it --Artie’s leather shoes and denim pants, the old porch – brought to mind the old days.”
- Best pals
Kathy Shelley of Festus took this picture of her grandson, Madax Timothy Portell, with his grandfather, Tim Shelley of Pevely. “Paw Paw has a tradition for all his grandkids,” Shelley says. “He gets a decorated cookie each month from 1 to 12 months, and we take a picture of them to see how the baby has grown the first year.”
- Paw Paw’s tradition
Bev Buchholz of Cedar Hill took this picture of her granddaughter, 19-month-old Allie Buchholz, at a car show at Culver’s in Arnold in April. “Allie is the sweetest, smartest little girl I know,” Buchholz says. “She has brought so much joy into our lives. It is such a blessing to spend precious time with her and watch her blossom.”
- Grandma’s little diva
Ginny Ameiss of House Springs caught her grandson, Eli Ameiss, in mid-stride during a trip to the Butterfly House in Chesterfield in March. Eli, the son of Crystal Gloden and Ameiss’ son, Ehren, was enjoying March Morpho Mania with his mother and grandmother. “”Elis is a butterfly on the fly,” Ameiss says. “Both feet off the ground and having the time of his life, flying like a blue morpho. Eli loves the Butterfly house and shares his grandma’s passion for butterflies. He is a 4-year-old with more energy than it takes a caterpillar to morph into a butterfly.”
- Boy in flight
Marie Stallman of Barnhart took this photo of her only grandchild, Jonah Kramer Stallman, at his home in Brooklyn, N.Y., during a visit in March. “The quilt he is lying on was cross-stitched by my mom for our son, Jason (Jonah’s daddy) when he was born 40 years ago,” Stallman says. “So, besides being happy that my mom was with us in spirit, we are so happy to spend time with our grandson.”
- Heirloom memories
Jane Dixon, Hillsboro took this picture of her grandson, Kolton Nelms, 10 months, on Easter at Cathy Jokerst Park in Festus. “I’m not quite sure what he’s thinking,” she says of the little one, holding a big, crumply leaf. “’Eat it? Or talk to it?’”
- What the heck…?
Beeda Maynard of House Springs took this photo of her granddaughters, Alesandra Mae “Sandy” Maynard, 8, and Andrea Joy “Andy” Maynard, 5, at the girls’ House Springs home in 2012. “This picture reminds me of the Ladies of the 80s, a club of long ago that I enjoyed very much,” she says.
- Ladies who lunch
Joan Hric of De Soto took this photo of her grandchildren, Maya and Nolan Albers of Imperial, during a visit to the St. Louis Zoo in August 2009. “This was the first time we’d been to the zoo,” she says. “The grandkids thoroughly enjoyed it.”
- Splashing around
Mary Koch of De Soto took this picture of her grandson, Ben Baeres, in August 2013 following a fun-filled day at the St. Louis Zoo. “All the way home, he held onto and played with his souvenir purple-and-black stuffed snake,” Koch says. “Ben’s sweet smile touches my heart and keeps the memory of a delightful day bright.”
- A sssssweet day
Janet Myers of Arnold took this picture of her grandson, Henry Brown, and her niece, Ericka Brown, at the Amish Store in Lead Mine, Mo., in April. “Henry picked out a hat that was a little too big,” Myers says. “But he loved it. He’s quite the character.”
- Playing dress-up the old school way
Terry Dalton of Hillsboro took this picture of her grandson, Logan Delassus, 3, in the kitchen of her daughter’s home. “Logan is our only grandchild,” Dalton says. “He was so cute enjoying a Steak ’n Shake meal with Papa and Maw Maw while we were babysitting.”
- Logan and his shake
Lisa Stagner of Festus took this picture of her grandson, Wyatt Johnson, in the front yard of her Festus home in November 2014. “We enjoy every minute we have with Wyatt,” she says. “He was having a great time jumping in the leaves Papa raked up.”
- Just leafin’ around
Vickie Vitale of Arnold photographed her grandson, Henry Vitale, on her patio swing in June 2014 when he was 17 months old. “We wanted to see his reaction to his first watermelon,” she says. “He loved it! The slice he is working on was almost gone by the time he put it down. His face was stained watermelon red, with juice running everywhere.”
- Juicy!
Jan Foster snapped this picture of her grandson, Lucas William Foster, last Halloween when he was 16 months old. “He was the cutest giraffe his grandma has ever seen,” she says. Lucas is the son of Denny and Rachel Foster, and the grandson of Barry and Jan Foster and Dean and Mary Dunn, all of Festus.
- Hey up there
Jan Foster took this shot of her grandson, Arlo Foster Bonham, at 5 weeks old. “This shot is a favorite,” she says, ‘because it shows Arlo’s bright-eyed, sweet face.” Arlo is the son of Jon Bonham and Frances Foster of St. Louis, and the grandson of Barry and Jan Foster of Festus and David and Janet Bonham of Webster Groves.
- What a face!
Janet Blankenship of Crystal City took this picture of her twin grandsons, Aden and Owen Blankenship, in their crib in May 2012, when the babies were 6 weeks old. “They are the first boys and twins in the Blankenship family,” she says. “This was a few weeks after they were released from the NICU as premature babies, so it was their first picture taken as healthy, happy babies in their own home.”
- Buddies
Judy Lucas took this whimsical photograph of her three grandsons in 2011. Twins Tyson, right, and Carson Lucas, then 9, flank their 6-year-old cousin, Mason Lucas. “Whenever these three get together at MaMa’s house, it’s fun for all,” Lucas says. “I love this picture because it reminds me of all the time they spend together. It makes my heart happy to be a part of their childhood and to watch them grow closer together.”
- You guys are killin’ me
Lynda Harris took the day off on her birthday in April to spend it with her husband and her granddaughter, Gemma White. “I spent nearly 20 minutes trying to get Gemma posed,” she says. “Then I snapped this accidentally as she watched Grandpa stand up.”
- Surprise
When Terri Kreitler and her husband, Ron, assembled their grandchildren last August for a photo at their Festus home, it was the first time all seven had ever been in the same place at the same time. They’ll need a new photo, soon, though – the family is expecting two more grandchildren. From left are Austin, Owen, Jeremiah, Harmony, Jolie, Hallie and Karis Kreitler.
- A trunk full of grands
Janet Parker of High Ridge took this photo of her granddaughter, Bella Pieper, during the summer of 2014 after Bella climbed the legendary tree in Parker’s front yard. “This is special because she climbed our old red bud tree,” Parker says. “All of my older grandchildren have climbed the tree, too.”
- Legacy climb
Cathy Carter of Arnold captured this moment of sweet defiance by her granddaughter, Lexi Rose Carter of Imperial, outside of Lexi’s great-grandmother Norma Kelly Rieken’s house in October of 2013. Lexi did not want to leave the house. “She sat on the front steps, crossed her arms and said ‘No! I stay here!’” Carter says. “Great-grandma Norma loves this picture and has an 8-by-10 print in her room.”
- Stubborn Love
Donna Buskirk, 61, of De Soto submitted this photo of five of her granddaughters: Carmen, Cecilia, Priscilla, Cynthia and Erika. Buskirk has 23 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and is expecting more soon. She was also a foster parent for many years. “I love my kids,” she says.
- Girl Power
Donna Buskirk, 61, of De Soto captured this photo of her grandson, Rickey, flexing for the camera. Buskirk has 23 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and is expecting more soon. She was also a foster parent for many years. “I love my kids,” she says.
- Welcome to the gun show
Donna Buskirk, 61, of De Soto submitted this photo of her grandchildren, Becca and Austin, and great-grandson Aaron. Buskirk has 23 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and is expecting more soon. She was also a foster parent for many years. “I love my kids,” she says.
- Say cheese!
Kelley Wilken captured this photo of her grandson, Zachary Wilken, when they were playing together at Fenton Park. “Zachary and I love to go to the park together,” Wilken says. “We spend our time looking for treasure and using our imaginations. Zachary likes this picture because he looks as tall as the tree!”
- Towering over the trees
Rosemary Graham of De Soto took this photo of her 1-year-old great-granddaughter, Zoey Brock, this spring. The deer Zoey is playing with was a gift from Graham’s special friends from many years ago. “All of my grandchildren rode on our deer, and now the great-grandchildren are,” Graham says.
- What a deer
Rosemary Graham of De Soto captured this shot of her 3-year-old great-grandson, Riley Brock, playing outside of her house in 2015. “All of my grandchildren rode our deer, and now the great-grandchildren are,” Graham says. “It was a gift from very special friends, many years ago.”
- Ready to ride
Lorraine Sartori of High Ridge captured this photo of her grandson, Max Steighorst, while she was babysitting him in 2007. Max had crawled behind the chair in the picture. “I quietly crept around it on my knees, and then said ‘boo!’ His face lit up and he giggled and giggled,” Sartori says. “Of course, I had to do it again for a picture. What fun!”
- Blue-eyed beauty
Lorraine Sartori of High Ridge took this picture of her granddaughter, Mia Steighorst, in November 2005 at Jefferson Barracks Park in St. Louis County. “It was our day at the park and Mia was playing in the colorful leaves,” Sartori says. “Suddenly, she discovered this huge tree. Her face beamed, as if to say, ‘look, Gramma!’ I was so glad I had my camera.”
- A tree buddy
Neil Dressler of Imperial submitted this picture of his granddaughter, Ellie Fay Markus, at Powder Valley Conservation Area on Oct. 12, 2014. “Ellie and her brother, Ryan, enjoy going to conservation areas and parks. We learn about animals and hike the trails,” Dressler says. “There is always something to climb on. In this case it was a big green frog!”
- Nature lesson
Debbie Wodicker of High Ridge captured this shot of her granddaughter, Alivia Grace “Livi” Mayer, modeling a new hat and scarf set in February. “I have a friend who lives out of state who wanted to make matching hats and scarves for Livi and me,” Wodicker says. “When the hat and scarf arrived and I tried it on her, I was so surprised to see that it fit so well...so I snapped this photo to email to the hat-maker friend, who was totally thrilled! I am completely smitten with my beautiful granddaughter. She is my world!”
- Matching grandma
Dennis Wideman of Barnhart took this photo of his wife, Berni Wideman, and their grandson, Clayton Wideman of CrystalCity, in September 2014 at the Bonne Terre Drag Strip. “It was a beautiful fall day and our grandson loves Lightning McQueen so we decided to take him to the Bonne Terre Drag Racing Strip,” Wideman says. “It looks like he is saying, ‘I am ready to give up my stroller and get me a race car.’”
- Lightning McQueen
Debbie Przygoda of High Ridge sneakily captured this photo of her three granddaughters, cousins Ava, Kyleigh and Emma Przygoda, snuggled up together watching a show. Sisters Ava and Emma live in North Carolina, while Kyleigh (middle) lives here in Missouri, so they rarely get to see each other. “This photo was taken when they were at my home visiting for Christmas vacation and I feel this photo captures their innocence,” Przygoda says. “They didn’t realize they were being photographed. Look how Kyleigh and Emma are both holding their right arm the same way. The glow of the lighting looks just warm and cozy as do the three of them cuddled together.”
- Cousin cuddles
Jean O’Rourke of Barnhart took this photo while she was watching her 10-month-old grandson, Eric David Anderson II, in October 2014 in Norfolk, Va. “Eric’s mom and dad, my daughter Jen and her husband Eric, are both in the U.S. Navy and were partaking in simultaneous exercises which required additional family care,” O’Rourke says. “So grandma Jean was called to duty in Norfolk!”
- Monogram man
Robert Hightower of Arnold took this photo of four of his grandchildren during a vacation with the entire family to Gulf Shores, Ala. during June of 2014. The older kids are 9-year-old Sophia Bradshaw and her brother, 11-year-old Sam Bradshaw, the children of Robyn and Glenn Bradshaw of Fenton. They are posing with their 2-year-old twin cousins, Sydney and Liam Oldham, the children of Kim and Nathan Oldham of Fenton.
- Cousins on the coast
Gwen M. Caputo, 66, of Festus took this photo of her 2-year-old grandson, Carter Sonderman, while vacationing with Carter and his parents, Sarah Walsh and Joe Sonderman, during the fall of 2014 at Hilton Head Beach, S.C. “He had just returned from the beach, which he absolutely loved,” Caputo says. “It was a very special family vacation where our family was able to enjoy one another and nature at its finest.”
- Sweet smile
Sonya Schweppe of Imperial, or “Me Me” as she has been affectionately nicknamed, captured this sweet photo of her 2-year-old granddaughter, Morgan Marie Callahan, on April 18 at Me Me’s house. “This picture is so special to me because I can see the love in her eyes for me,” Schweppe says. “She is my life.”
- The look of love
Jane Turner of House Springs took this photo of her two grandkids, 1-year-old Robyn Ertel and 5-year-old Magnum Ertel, in September of 2014. “This picture is special because we found this replica of a John Deere tractor at an antique mall and bought it for them to use at our house,” Turner says. “They love to be outside helping with the yardwork and playing. Magnum was big enough to ride the tractor right away but he made sure his little sister was able to ride it too.”
- Starting ‘em young
Marsha Caramatti of Barnhart took this photo of her grandsons, Joey and Vinny Caramatti, the sons of Jackie Urrea and Mike Caramatti, playing in their favorite spot in her house: one of the kitchen cabinets. Joey, then 1, is in the cabinet while 2-year-old Vinny is beaming with joy on the floor. “Playing in grandma’s cabinet was always one of their favorite spots,” Caramotti says. “I got tired of getting upset with them – so I cleared out the cabinet just for my grandsons. As you can see, they really enjoyed it very much.”
- Mischief makers
Marsha Caramatti of Barnhart captured this sweet shot of her granddaughter, Cassi Caramatti, the daughter of Jackie Urrea and Mike Caramatti, playing with her favorite childhood toy. “Barney was Cassi’s first love,” Caramatti says. “She’s 3 years old in this picture, feeding Barney. Now she’s 18 years old.”
- Barney’s best friend
Audrey Hardin of De Soto took this photo of her grandchildren during a family vacation to Gulf Shores, Ala. From left are Maddi Hardin, 10; Garrett Hardin, 11; Drew Hardin, 8; Kylie Hardin, 13; Elizabeth McClinton, 3; Cole McClinton, 7; and Trevor Hardin, 7. “This picture is so special because our entire family took a vacation together staying at our own ‘private’ beach and house at Gulf Shores,” Hardin says. “The kids are growing up so fast, we may never get this opportunity again, but I hope we do.”
- Family fun
Carol Wilson of Arnold captured this action shot of her grandson, Justin Wilson, in the playroom at Wilson’s house. He was around 4 or 5 years old then. “This picture is special to me because he was really having a fun time,” Wilson says.
- Look grandma, no hands!
Judy Ronzio of High Ridge snapped this picture of her grandson, Gage Ronzio, then 5, during a March 2010 visit to Suson Park in St. Louis County. He had visited the barnyard animals, and was trying out the playground equipment for the first time.
- Sociable climber
Judy Ronzio of High Ridge took this picture of her granddaughter, Reese Ronzio, 8, during an unseasonably nice January day at Mastodon State Historic Site in Imperial. “It was a great day in January to get outside and play at the park,” Ronzio says.
- A swingin’ good time
Pat DeClue of De Soto took a picture of her granddaughter, Leah Sheridan, at her Eureka home when the baby was 5 months old. “Leah, who is now 10, was wearing a baby sweater that was worn by her mother, my daughter, Jennifer Sheridan, at the same age,” DeClue says. “It was knitted by a neighbor who, along with her husband, was living in the United States on a three-year, work-related visa from England.”
- Heirloom sweater
Pat DeClue of De Soto thinks this picture of her grandson, Jordan Sheridan, was a portent of things to come. It was taken when he was 15 months old on a family outing to a Christmas tree farm. “Jordan, now 20, whose hobby is astronomy, must have known then that the sky would someday hold even more special meaning for him,” she says. “He and I have since spent many evenings stargazing together.”
- Seeing stars
Pat DeClue took this snapshot of her grandson, Corey Sheridan, when he was 5 years old in the ‘art studio’ she set up for her grandchildren in the basement of her De Soto home. Now 18, Corey hasn’t lost his interest in art, and often joins his grandmother, a retired art teacher, in activities such as wheel pottery in her home studio.
- A budding artist
Pat DeClue’s photo of her 2-year-old grandson, Zachary Ward, taken in her home 25 years ago, shows the positive, fun-loving attitude he has always kept, even in the face of adversity. Zachary was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at age 15, and recently underwent a series of brain-related surgeries in a span of four months. “He still managed to complete his college degree, along with his wife, this spring,” she says. “I know he’s feeling better when he answers the phone with something funny to say.”
- No matter what, a funny guy
Lea Durand made this poster from pictures she took of her two oldest grandchildren, Trinity Bartlett, 7, and MaKayla Bartlett, 5. “I made this when Disney’s “Frozen” came out,” she says. “I always remind them when they argue that ‘sisters are forever,’ just like the movie. We always play dress-up when they are with me.”
- Sisters forever
Lea Durand’s grandchildren, unable to pronounce her first name, began calling her “Grandmawee” and the name stuck. She took this picture of her latest grandchild, 5-month-old Paisley Durand, during a family hike to Pickle Springs in St. FrancoisCounty.
“This is my newest angel,” Durand says. Family members are quick to point out that Paisley has more hair than Grandpa Mark. “She seriously has this smile every day. She is always happy!”
- Always happy
Renee Miller of Robertsville captured this sweet moment shared between her grandsons, Luke and Jacob Spalding, on March 24, 2009, playing on the Millers’ property in Robertsville. “This photo is special to me because it captures a moment in time when my grandsons were totally unaware they were being photographed,” Miller says. “The honest joy of brothers at play is a treasure greater than gold.”
- Happy boys
Roy Joedicke took this photo of his 3-year-old great-grandson, Brayden Joedicke, playing at the Joedicke home in De Soto. “Brayden is our ‘miracle’ baby,” Joedicke says. Brayden’s mother was told by her doctors that she could not have a baby because she was ill and bearing a child could kill her. “When she found out she was pregnant, she refused to abort her baby. God blessed her with the perfect child! He is our inspiration.”
- A keeper
Susan Stewart of Cedar Hill captured this funny day with her granddaughter, Courtney Kauffman, in 1997 at Courtney’s home in Louisville, Ky. “It was cool outside so Courtney’s mother Melissa told her to put a jacket on,” Stewart says. “She came back out with the jacket, pantyhose on over her shorts, lipstick and ready to help. This picture is special because Courtney is so special. The lipstick topped it off.
- Dressed for success
Lynn Hoff of Festus took this photo of her granddaughter, Haleigh Alama Hoff, then 17, on Oct. 14, 2012, in West City Park for Haleigh’s senior pictures. “Haleigh’s papa suggested this spot, he loved the fall of the year,” Hoff says. “He passed away in January of 2013.”
- A senior moment
Mary Rudisaile took this picture of her granddaughter, Maggie Rudisaile, with her grandpa, Mary’s husband, Don, during Maggie’s visit to Missouri from her Texas home in 2008. “She was worn out after playing at the water park in Farmington,” Rudisaile says. “Our grandchildren love coming to Missouri to visit their grandparents.”
- Grandpa makes the best bed
Mary Rudisaile captured this funny photo of her grandson, Hagen Rudisaile, clowning around at a water park in Farmington in 2008. Hagen, who lives in Texas, was visiting his grandparents in Missouri. “Our grandchildren love coming to Missouri to visit their grandparents,” Rudisaile says. Hagen is now 12 years old.
- Can’t contain the excitement
Mary Rudisaile captured this action shot in 2008 of her grandson, Walker Rudisaile, coming down the big slide at a water park in Farmington. Walker was in Missouri visiting his grandparents from his Texas home. “Our grandchildren love coming to Missouri to visit their grandparents,” Rudisaile says. Now Walker is 13 years old and will be in 8th grade.
- Whoosh!
Mary Rudisaile captured this photo of her granddaughter Rylie Wilson, right, with her friend, Delaney Anderson, in 2008. The girls were getting ready for Halloween in Texas during Rudisaile’s visit to see her grandchildren. Now the girls are about to enter their sophomore year in high school.
- We’re here to pump…you up!
Larry Otis of Imperial took this photo of his grandson, Joshua David Otis, during a visit to Otis’ house during the summer of 2014. “This photo is special to me because our deaf boxer, Oscar, was laying on the chair and Joshua climbed up and now Oscar is looking over him,” Otis says. “Spontaneous!”
- Best buddies
Lloyd Yancey of De Soto took this picture of his 1-year-old grandson, Bryon Yancey, at Yancey’s home. “His papa Lloyd took this photo when grandma was feeding him,” Yancey says. “All photos are special to us, but when he smiles, there’s nothing else to say.”
- All smiles
Trish Guethle of Cedar Hill took this photo of her grandsons on the porch steps at her home. Top row, from left, are Trent, Grant and Henry; in front are Sam, Harry and Spencer Guethle. “It’s a special photo because it shows a group of little boys who would sit still for a picture before they got dirty playing outside!” Guethle says. “We don’t do ‘girl’ at our place. I live in a boys’ world and I love it!”
- Boys’ day out
More like this...
Tina Sherman of Festus won first place with this shot of Ethan Speck, 3, sliding in the dirt in his Sunday best. Ethan is the son of Mike and Melissa Speck of Festus and the grandson of Lynn and Tina Sherman of Festus and Bob and Cathy Speck of Hillsboro.
- Boys will be boys
Courtney Moreland of Festus captured this sweet shot of grandsons Ethan, left, and Erich Cook at home in 2008. The picture won second place in the contest.
- Brotherly love
Deanna Clements of Pevely snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Rhianna White, then 11, with Rusty the horse. “Her cousin, Abbie Johnson, was holding Rusty’s lips up to make him smile,” Clements says. “I like to see my grandkids play and have fun together.” The photo is the third-place finisher.
- Horsing around
Deanna Clements of Pevely won fourth-place honors with this photo of her 6-year-old grandson, Noah Johnson, during a camping trip last fall. “He had lost both front teeth and was trying to eat a caramel apple,” Clements says. “He couldn’t get a bite of it, so I had to cut off a piece to get him started.”
- All I want for Christmas…
Beverly Bognar of Barnhart took fifth-place with this picture of her granddaughter, Natalie Bognar, 3, on Easter at the Festus home of Bognar’s daughter. “I love this photo because it shows the very essence of my granddaughter’s personality,” Bognar says. “She is a happy child, always singing and dancing. In the photo, she is pretending she is Elsa in ‘Frozen’, and was singing ‘Let it Go.’ I love the way her hands are curved in the bubbles, and the way you can see her hands and the background colors in the translucent bubbles.”
- She’s so bubbly
Jim Lambert of Festus took this picture of his grandchildren, Jakob and Kallista Fraelich, at Kallista’s first birthday party on March 11, 2006. “The photo pretty much speaks for itself,” he says. “Jakob is being a typical big brother who can’t wait another two months to blow out candles on his own birthday.”
- Can’t wait for my turn
Jackie Henry of De Soto took this picture of her great-grandson, Cash Whitter, 9 months, in early May. Cash spends Thursdays with his great-grandparents.
- Going to Grandma’s
Terri Starwalt of De Soto took this picture last summer while lunching at Hardees with granddaughters Ella Whitter, 7, and Paci Whitter, 5.
- Grandma’s day out
Will Solomon of Imperial took this picture of his granddaughter, Ellie Solomon, just before one of her soccer games at St. Joseph School in Imperial last fall. “Ellie played goalie for her CYC soccer team,” he says. “I really enjoy taking photos of Ellie, before and during the game. She loves to play sports – volleyball, softball and soccer. My wifer and I rarely miss a game. Usually she will not sit still for me to take her photo, but this day she actually stopped and posed for me.”
- Getting her kicks
Mike Bradley of Pevely took this shot last year of his granddaughter, Lauren Patrick, then 8, in The Loop on Delmar Ave. in St. Louis. “We had just parked our car and were on the way to Fitz’s for ice cream when we passed the statue of Chuck Berry,” Bradley says. “Lauren spontaneously started playing air guitar. She is a creative, fun-loving, spontaneous young lady.”
- Rockin’ out
Donald Henderson of Crystal City captured this shot of his granddaughter, Aubrey Aileene Henderson, at a St. Louis Blues playoff game against Minnesota. “As I was taking it, some Minnesota fans commented that they were going to beat the Blues and go back to Minnesota with a two-game lead,” he says. “At that exact time, Aubrey stuck out her tongue. It struck us as funny.”
- Take that, Minnesota!
Sharon White of Barnhart spent Mother’s Day with family at her parents’ Farmington home. “It was my grandson’s first camping trip with his Nana,” she says of Logan Meadows, 6. She snapped this picture of him with some of granite boulders in his great-grandparents’ yard.
- Strong man
Susan Vaughn took this picture of her mother, Lequeta Sweeney, on Mother’s Day 2013, as she released a monarch butterfly she received as a Mother’s Day gift. Vaughn and her two sisters, Karen Vaughn and Amy Gans, gave their mom a butterfly chrysalis scheduled to open on Mother’s Day, and Sweeney and her grandchildren gathered at the Vaughn family farm south of Festus to watch the transformation take place.
“This was an amazing time to share with all the children,” Sweeney says, “and to see God’s creation and set it free.”
- Butterfly for Mother’s Day
Amy Petschonek of De Soto submitted this photo of her granddaughter, Amelia Petschonek, 10 weeks, taken at the baby’s home in May. “Amelia is the first grandchild in our family and is a blessing,” Petschonek says. “She is a sweet, happy, adorable baby.”
- Sweet and happy
Vanessa Guy of Crystal City snapped this shot on her camera phone of her husband, Danny Guy, with their 9-month-old granddaughter, Olivia Catherine Guy. It was taken May 16 at the home of the baby’s aunt, Christina Guy Mooney, in Imperial. “This is my first granddaughter from my oldest son, Danny Guy II, and his wife, Michelle,” Vanessa says. “Olivia is a very happy baby. She brings love, smiles and laughter to her grandparents’ lives every time we see her.”
- Grandpa's girl
Barbara Emert of De Soto took this photo of her granddaughter, Rebekah Goodman, at the little girl’s graduation from Happy Time Preschool in Arnold on May 15. “She had an amazing year and did a wonderful job performing for the ceremony,” Emert says. “I am so proud to have her as my granddaughter. I wanted our community to see how special this little girl is.”
- Graduation day
Helen Donahue of De Soto snapped this picture at Walther Park in De Soto following the June 1, 2013, wedding of her youngest daughter, Megan. Her grandsons, Clayton, left, and Maximus Rozycki, served as ring bearers. “The boys patiently endured multiple photos at church, one other park, a bus ride and then Walther Park,” Donahue says. “This picture is special to me because it captures their expressions of exhausted patience.”
- Lying down on the job
Ruth Rudisaile of Festus took this picture of her granddaughter, Abby Rudisaile, at Festus Elementary School.
- A winning smile
Ruth Rudisaile of Festus took this picture of her great-granddaughter, Audrey Lunsford, at Rudisaile’s home
- Great-grandma’s sweetheart .
Mary Roth of Festus took this snapshot of her grandchildren, Alex Roth, left, and Norah Cully, both 5, on Christmas 2013. “Norah was trying to plant a big kiss on her cousin’s cheek,” Roth says.
- Kissin’ cousins
Mary Roth of Festus submitted this photo of her grandson, Jude Cully, then 3, taken by her husband, Rob, at their home in July 2014. “Jude took a swim, ate a snow cone and wanted to show off his tongue,” Roth says.
- Blue man, no group
Judy Knowles of De Soto sent in this pjhoto, taken by her husband, Ray Knowles, of the couple’s great-granddaughter, Kallista Fraelich. Kallista, now 10, is a student in the Jefferson R-7 School District. “Kallista was about 2 or 3, sleepy and crabby,” Judy says. “She did NOT want her picture taken!”
- Aw, c’mon, guys – lemme ’lone
Donna and Richard Crosby of Festus submitted this picture of their new grandson, Dalton Asa Julian, taken at home on April 22. “Dalton laughed out loud for the first time when his mommy came into the room and talked to him,” Donna says. “Dalton was only 20 days old. My daughter, Michele, and son-in-law, Scott Julian, have tried for over 20 years to have a child and it was such a blessing when they found out they were pregnant. Dalton is a miracle baby.
- Laughing matters
Tina Sherman of Festus snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Aslyn Foveaux, then 3, at a pumpkin patch in Kansas. “It shows her whimsical personality,” Sherman says. Aslyn is the daughter of Jennifer and Rich Foveaux of Manhattan, Kan., and the granddaughter of Carol and Ken Foveaux of Kansas and Lynn and Tina Sherman of Festus.
- Hanging out at the pumpkin patch
Tina Sherman of Festus took this picture of Aerie Foveaux, 17 months, in the bathtub. Aerie is the granddaughter of Carol and Ken Foveaux of Kansas and Lynn and Tina Sherman of Festus.
- Can you see me now?
Diana Cornell of Festus took this picture of her grandson, Cameron Williams, in February
- Having some fun
Phyllis Lofton of Imperial took this snapshot of her three granddaughters at her home on Christmas Day 2012. From left are Macie Bailey, now 3; Maggie Bailey, now 6; and Mollie Bailey, now 4.
- What's that sign say?
Darla Ray of Festus took this photo of her four granddaughters during a trip to Florida in 2005. From left are Emily, Shayla, Shauna and Afton Ray. “Grandma and Grandpa had such a great time with our girls,” Ray says.
- Girls on the go
Darla Ray of Festus will be sure to whisk this photo out when it comes time for prom some day. She snapped this picture of grandsons Shaden and Logan Ray at a family gathering in 2008, when both were 3 years old. “Their sisters dressed them up in dance costumes,” Ray says. “They didn’t care at that age, but now they are embarrassed!”
- Blackmail deluxe
Darla Ray of Festus captured her great-grandson, Aiden Simms, 19 months, enjoying a sweet snack at the park in May 2014. “I love to watch him eat,” she says. “He loves his cupcakes.”
- Mmm, mmmm good
Linda Watkins of Arnold snapped this picture with her cell phone of her grandchildren, Zander and Jesse Jordan, after a long day of playing.
- Brotherly love
Linda Watkins of Arnold was there with her cell phone camera when grandson Dax Jordan discovered there are lots of different ways to play with a Tonka truck.
- Truckin’
Linda Watkins of Arnold took this photo of her grandson, Richard Watkins, on his 10th birthday in Kimmswick.
- Birthday biker
Angie Bieser of Hillsboro and her husband, Harry, captured this treasured shot of their grandchildren in April. Because their son lives in New York, getting the whole family together can be rare. “This was the first time in a few years all six of our children and grandchildren were together,” Angie says. “We played kickball, flew kites, looked for frogs and turtles (found one!) and had a birthday party for our son’s dog.” From left are Evah Hoven, 1; Gwen Hoven, 6; Nora, Hoven, 3; Carter White, 9, holding Harrison Bieser, 9 months; Olivia White, 5; Isabella Beiser, 11; Lucas White, 5; and Abby Bieser, 8.
- The gang’s all here
Sandy Johnson submitted this picture she snapped of her granddaughter, Avarae Margaret Johnson, in April at her home. “This photo is special to me because it shows Ava’s big, violet eyes,” Johnson says.
- Just like Liz Taylor’s
Pamela Such of De Soto snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Anneliese Wiley, 3 months, during a trip to the St. Louis Zoo on May 17. “I’m overjoyed every time I get to visit her,” Such says of her first grandchild. “For this contest, I found it difficult to choose a photo to submit. Every photo I see of her smiling, I want to show it off to the world.”
- Zoofari
Colleen Rich of Arnold took this shot of her granddaughters, Gianna, left, and Kyla Rich, in the hammock on Father’s Day 2014. “They climbed into the hammock and cuddled with each other,” Rich says. “Grandpa was trying to poke them with a stick but Gianna grabbed it instead.”
- Let it go, Grandpa
Lisa Schneedle of De Soto captured the personalities of her granddaughters in this shot, taken during their first-ever trip to Grant’s Farm in September 2012. “The sign is perfect,” Schneedle says of the shot of Madalyn English, left, and Aaliyah English. “It’s like Aaliyah is saying, ‘Who, me? I wouldn’t bite!’ and Madalyn is saying, ‘Oh, but I will.’”
- Who, us?
Marline Crochunis said her grandson, Cohen Linderer, was extremely excited to show off his first-ever lost tooth for her in this photo, taken during a family vacation to Wisconsin Dells. “Shortly after the excitement was over, though,” she says, “worry set in about whether the Tooth Fairy would be able to find him.”
- But she’s got GPS, right?
Donna Jones of De Soto took this picture of her grandson, Austin Jones, meeting his new baby sister, Alexandria, minutes after the baby’s birth on Jan. 14. “Grandmother holds this picture special because it was the first meeting of my grandchildren,” Jones says. “Austin, who is 5 years old, was excited, happy and maybe a little bit apprehensive about his new sister.”
- She looks just like me!
Cecilia Greenlee of Hillsboro took this picture in 2009 of her grandchildren, Baylen Wright, then 6, and his sister, Nevaieh Wright, then 2, at Greenlee’s home. “One of their few times sharing,” Greenlee says of the siblings, who are now 12 and 8.
- A rare sighting
Janet Leitterman of Festus took this shot in Louisville, Ky., on May 17 of her five granddaughters: Amelia, Addison, Kylie, Ava and Nora. “We love all of our grandgirls,” she says. “It’s a true joy watching them grow up as friends.”
- Tripping the light fan-tastic
Peggy Heitert of Herculaneum snapped this picture of her granddaughter, Makayla Rose Heitert, on Easter Sunday. “Makayla was waiting patiently with her cousins to go Easter egg hunting,” Heitert says. “I took this without her knowing. When I saw the picture, I couldn’t believe how beautiful she is.”
- Surprise beauty
Mary boushie of Hillsboro took this picture of her grandsons, Wyatt Pullen, then 5, and Gaven Pullen, then 11 months, in 2003 in her driveway. “I love this picture,” she says, “because it shows their big smiles and their first set of wheels.”
- Motor men
Sheryl Earls of Arnold had her camera handy on Christmas morning 2013 to capture this pensive shot of her grandson, Carson Earls. “Carson is our first grandchild and it has been a while since we had small children at Christmas,” she says. “He was 2 ½ and really understood what was going on. He had just settled into watching ‘Toy Story 3’ which he had gotten in his stocking.”
- Wonder of the season
Joyce Kinchen of De Soto captured this jungle moment with her granddaughter, Lilly Minden, in Kinchen’s front yard in September 2014. “Lilly had her face painted at church to look like a tiger,” Kinchen says. “She decided to hide in my pampas grass when I took the picture.”
- Eye of the tiger
Joyce Kinchen of De Soto took this picture of her granddaughter, Holly Minden, on Mother’s Day. “When it started to rain, we opened the back of my Escape (SUV) and pretended to be camping out,” she says. “To entertain us, she made duck lips with Pringles.”
- The original duck face
Mary Roqueplot of House Springs snapped her great-granddaughter, Jocelyn Nicole Beuchner, in the back seat during a day out together in March. “We went on an outing to look at nature at the Powder Valley Nature Center, then to McDonald’s for lunch,” Roqueplot says. “During our lunch, she said, ‘If you make a mess, they will make you go right out of here.’ With the sunglasses, I call her Miss Hollywood. She just made the day complete.”
- Miss Hollywood
Mary Roqueplot of House Springs sent a handmade quilt to her grandson, Caleb, at his home in California, but it never arrived, and the family was told it had been stolen. “On Dec. 26, the quilt was delivered to my son’s address, contents undisturbed,” Roqueplot says. “It was a gift from God.”
- A gift recovered
Patty Richards of Imperial sent in this comical shot of granddaughter Gracie Sommers and her best friend, Katelyn Thurman, both 7, during a trip to Six Flags St. Louis last summer. “Katelyn is the one in the shark,” Richards says. “This photo is special because the children are having so much fun together.”
- Sharknado!
Mary Zander snapped this picture of her grandson, Mason Oberle, last summer at her Festus home. “He’s so special to me,” Zander says. “If you could see this little guy, you’d know what I mean. He loves all animals. He thought he would wait and see if the turtle would pop out again.”
- Hello? Anybody home?
Connie Day of Arnold took this portrait of her only grandson, Samuel Day, in 2005 at her home.
- Blue-eyed buddy
Jean Naeger of Cedar Hill couldn’t resist the temptation to put bunny ears on her grandson for this photo, taken on Easter in the backyard of Naeger’s sister-in-law’s home in Webster Groves. Even at 2 months old, little Owen Charles Strosahl doesn’t look all that thrilled, but Grandma had the last word. “He was just too cute,” she says.
- Is this really necessary?
Jean Naeger snapped this picture of her grandson, Evan Thomas Strosahl, then 3, in the fall of 2014, as he played in the leaves with his grandfather in the backyard of the Naegers’ Cedar Hill home. “You realize the simplest pleasures are the ones most dear,” Naeger says.
- Backyard fun
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro took these pictures almost 30 years apart. “Our son, John Wayne Long, is a Seabee in the U.S. Navy,” she says. “He and his wife, Erica, blessed us with a grandson, Elijah. I had saved this Indian drum and vest that belonged to John when he was a baby, and I bought the headdress for Elijah while on vacation earlier in the year.”
- Life father, like son (1985)
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro took these pictures almost 30 years apart. “Our son, John Wayne Long, is a Seabee in the U.S. Navy,” she says. “He and his wife, Erica, blessed us with a grandson, Elijah. I had saved this Indian drum and vest that belonged to John when he was a baby, and I bought the headdress for Elijah while on vacation earlier in the year.”
- Life father, like son (2014)
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro frequently carries her camera on a strap around her neck, just to capture moments like this one. She took this photo of her grandson, Kayden Richards, in June 2014 while he was visiting her Hillsboro home. “We went out into the yard on one of our ‘discovery walks,’” she says. “We love to look at our world and the surprises the yard has to offer. One day, we found a frog and then this worm crawling about. I picked it up and handed it to him. He was truly fascinated.”
- Slippery!
Patti McClelland of Hillsboro captured this tender moment between her brand new grandson, Braxton Richards, and his uncle. Her son, John Wayne Long, is holding his nephew for the first time. “John is away and out of the country so much,” she says. “This photo and this day was just a double batch of joy. We all appreciate these moments of joy and love.”
- Welcome, little one
Mary King of Herculaneum took this picture in February of her twin granddaughters, Taylor and Riley King, 3.
- Twin smiles
Traci Schneider of De Soto took this picture of her 8-month-old granddaughter, Ashlyn Marie Crady, on the front porch of the little one’s Festus home. “She has the cutest smile and the prettiest blue eyes,” the proud grandma says.
- Blue-eyed cutie
Deanna Clements of Pevely said it’s not often anyone manage to grab a photo of her 18-month-old grandson, Carter Dorris. “He usually never stays still long enough for me to take any pictures of him,” she says. “But he finally let me take this picture of him with my phone. He is special to us because he’s the youngest of 14 grandchildren.”
- A rare sight
Eva Rosenthal of Hillsboro took this photo in 2010 in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. She and her two sons, who live almost the whole country apart, took a motor home camping vacation with their families. “This photo just happened; it wasn’t planned,” she says. “All the grandkids just wanted a different picture, and this is the result.” She said the children weren’t in any danger of falling off a cliff; that’s just an optical illusion. “We had a wonderful time together,” she says. From the bottom up are Grace, Ethan, Morgan, Ryan, Sydney and Tess Rosenthal.
- A stack of grands
JD and Chloe Allen of Festus sent in this picture they took of their grandchildren in 2009 in Pevely. From left are Logan KuyKendall, Josie Allen, Miranda Allen and Allison KuyKendall. “We had fun. It was a beautiful day with our beautiful grandchildren,” Chloe says. “What else could we ask for?”
- Kids in the grass
Debbie Markus took this picture of her granddaughter, Ellie Fay Markus, on March 1 in her Imperial home. “After we went to see Disney on Ice, she thinks she is a princess,” Markus says. “And so do we. She is always happy and has an outstanding personality.”
- Princess in the house
Delbert Shoults Jr. of Festus submitted this picture of his only grandchild, Rylin Christopher Shoults, 13 months.
- Wagons ho!
Mary Peterein of Festus took this photo of grandsons Brady, 6, left, and Barrett, 2, during a lazy weekend at Grandma and Grandpa (James) Peterein’s place last summer.
- Brotherly love
June Kreyling of Dittmer took this comical snapshot at a St. Louis store in 1989 of her two curious grandsons, Peter Kreyling and Matthew Kreyling, checking out a toilet lid display.”I’m not sure what they expected to find,” she says. “But I found a good photo opportunity in it.”
- Deep-seated curiosity
June Kreyling of Dittmer says this photo of her 1-year-old great-granddaughter, Jane Kreyling, captures the “pure joy of the simple act of playing in the bath.”
- Splish splash
June Kreyling of Dittmer took this picture of her great-grandson, 9-month-old Raphael Kreyling, last December in her home. “I love the way Raphael seems to be pondering this large creature sitting next to him,” she says. “He is seemingly not afraid.”
- Snoopy and me
June Kreyling of Dittmer captured this picture of her great-granddaughter, 2-year-old Maggie Kreyling, on Dec. 27, 2014, in Mexico, Mo. “Maggie positioned herself on the kitchen floor two days after Christmas, seemingly relaxing after the holiday with her paper,” Kreyling says. “No doubt checking out the after-holiday sales. What could be cuter?”
- A little post-holiday reading
Gayle Lamb of Arnold captured this priceless shot of her two grandsons, Avrey, then 4, and Tony, then 6, during a visit to their great-grandmother, Eleanor Scheibelhut, at Mary Queen of Mother Nursing Home in 2008. “As we were beginning to leave, they wanted to give her a goodbye kiss,” Lamb says. “I just love the expression on my mom’s face, with one eye open and one closed, as they approach her with their loving kisses. She has since passed away, so this picture has even more sentimental value.”
- A smooch for great-grandma
Gayle Lamb of Arnold says efforts to get her own daughter, Kristyn, to eat peas as a baby met with little success. So when it came time for Kristyn’s son, Archer Schnakenberg, 11 months, to eat vegetables, Lamb thought she’d try carrots instead. “Whoa! I think his face speaks for itself,” Lamb says. “You’d have thought we gave him the dreaded peas. No matter what he eats, though, he is still the apple of our eye.”
- Carrots. Why did it have to be carrots?
Linda Poole of Crystal City took this photo in a special, new room she and her husband, Tom, have prepared in their Crystal City home since the arrival of their granddaughter, Maggie Elizabeth Bales, on April 12. “This photo was taken in the nursery we put together for Maggie’s visits,” Poole says. It was taken when she was 16 days old.”
In the crib with her are the 30-year-old twin dolls that were used in the cribs of Maggie’s mom, Laura Bennett Bales, and her twin sister, Crystal Bennett. “Tradition is very important to our family,” Poole says. “I kept them all these years, hoping to one day have them in the crib of my grandchild to enjoy. The passage on the cross above Maggie says it all.”
- Heirloom dolls
Mary Postal of Festus took this picture of her grandchildren, Arthur and Virginia Murphy, during a family vacation to Spring Lake, Mich., in August 2013. “This is my favorite picture of my grandbabies, because it captures the bond they share,” Postal says. “From the day Art was born, Ginny has proudly taken him under her wing to teach, protect and love. Ginny is showing Art a leaf and likely telling him everything he needs to know about trees.” Postal said she loves the look of the photo, and chose to print it in black and white deliberately. “They are sitting on the wooden steps of the old house we stayed in,” she says. “Something about it --Artie’s leather shoes and denim pants, the old porch – brought to mind the old days.”
- Best pals
Kathy Shelley of Festus took this picture of her grandson, Madax Timothy Portell, with his grandfather, Tim Shelley of Pevely. “Paw Paw has a tradition for all his grandkids,” Shelley says. “He gets a decorated cookie each month from 1 to 12 months, and we take a picture of them to see how the baby has grown the first year.”
- Paw Paw’s tradition
Tim Shelley of Pevely submitted this photo of his granddaughter, Jenna Ryan Portell, 4, of Festus, on the day of her dance recital. Jenna is also the granddaughter of Kathy Shelley of Festus.
- Pompom girl
Tim Shelley of Pevely submitted this photo of his granddaughter, Baylee Catherine Portell, 7, of Festus, on the day of her dance recital. Baylee is also the granddaughter of Kathy Shelley of Festus.
- Little ballerina
Bev Buchholz of Cedar Hill took this picture of her granddaughter, 19-month-old Allie Buchholz, at a car show at Culver’s in Arnold in April. “Allie is the sweetest, smartest little girl I know,” Buchholz says. “She has brought so much joy into our lives. It is such a blessing to spend precious time with her and watch her blossom.”
- Grandma’s little diva
Ginny Ameiss of House Springs caught her grandson, Eli Ameiss, in mid-stride during a trip to the Butterfly House in Chesterfield in March. Eli, the son of Crystal Gloden and Ameiss’ son, Ehren, was enjoying March Morpho Mania with his mother and grandmother. “”Elis is a butterfly on the fly,” Ameiss says. “Both feet off the ground and having the time of his life, flying like a blue morpho. Eli loves the Butterfly house and shares his grandma’s passion for butterflies. He is a 4-year-old with more energy than it takes a caterpillar to morph into a butterfly.”
- Boy in flight
Faith Townsend of Festus took this picture of her granddaughters, Aila Sagehorn, left, and Lillie Townsend, at her home in the fall of 2014. “They were excited to be riding Aila’s pony together,” she says.
- Fun in the sun
Marie Stallman of Barnhart took this photo of her only grandchild, Jonah Kramer Stallman, at his home in Brooklyn, N.Y., during a visit in March. “The quilt he is lying on was cross-stitched by my mom for our son, Jason (Jonah’s daddy) when he was born 40 years ago,” Stallman says. “So, besides being happy that my mom was with us in spirit, we are so happy to spend time with our grandson.”
- Heirloom memories
Mary Mitchell of De Soto took this picture of her great-granddaughter, Emma Jean Coleman of Columbia, S.C., during an April visit to the zoo.
- Fun at the zoo
Mary Mitchell of De Soto took this picture of her great-grandson, Barrett Mitchell Coleman, snoozing with a buddy at the baby’s home in Columbia, S.C., in April.
- Napping pals
Kelly Reynolds took this picture of her grandson, 2-year-old Tyler Reynolds.
- Sniff
David Almany of Rolla, formerly of Festus, took this picture of granddaughter Alexandra Almany in March. “Her smile makes my day,” he says.
- Makes my day
Jane Dixon, Hillsboro took this picture of her grandson, Kolton Nelms, 10 months, on Easter at Cathy Jokerst Park in Festus. “I’m not quite sure what he’s thinking,” she says of the little one, holding a big, crumply leaf. “’Eat it? Or talk to it?’”
- What the heck…?
Pat Block of De Soto took this picture of her granddaughters, cousins Shelby Block, 8, and Emma Vivrett, 11, hitting the water at Goose Creek.
- Cannonball!
Beeda Maynard of House Springs took this photo of her granddaughters, Alesandra Mae “Sandy” Maynard, 8, and Andrea Joy “Andy” Maynard, 5, at the girls’ House Springs home in 2012. “This picture reminds me of the Ladies of the 80s, a club of long ago that I enjoyed very much,” she says.
- Ladies who lunch
Lynn Fisk of Fenton took this photo of her grandson, Landon Miles Jackman, 18 months, on a beach in Greenville, Texas.
- Fun floating around
Lynn Fisk of Fenton took this photo of her granddaughter, Isabel Jackman, 4, at her home in Greenville, Texas. Isabel, the daughter of Jennah Jackman, is also the granddaughter of Jim Jackman.
- On the hunt
Lynn Fisk of Fenton took this photo of her grandson, Azlan Webster, 2, in St. Louis.
- Adorable
Janet Cross of High ridge snapped this picture of her granddaughters, Karlee Trankler and Tara Green, in her yard in 1991. “This photo is special to me because it shows their interest in nature,” she says. “They are discovering a worm.”
- Fascinating!
Rita Johnston took this picture of her granddaughter, Adelynn Johnston, in the front yard at Johnston’s De Soto home.
- Grandma’s little angel
Joan Hric of De Soto took this photo of her grandchildren, Maya and Nolan Albers of Imperial, during a visit to the St. Louis Zoo in August 2009. “This was the first time we’d been to the zoo,” she says. “The grandkids thoroughly enjoyed it.”
- Splashing around
Brenda Breece of Festus took this picture in February of her granddaughter, Lila Rose Frohling, in Lila’s backyard in Affton. “It shows her excitement of her first big snow,” Breece says.
- First flakes
Mary Koch of De Soto took this picture of her grandson, Ben Baeres, in August 2013 following a fun-filled day at the St. Louis Zoo. “All the way home, he held onto and played with his souvenir purple-and-black stuffed snake,” Koch says. “Ben’s sweet smile touches my heart and keeps the memory of a delightful day bright.”
- A sssssweet day
Janet Myers of Arnold took this picture of her grandson, Henry Brown, and her niece, Ericka Brown, at the Amish Store in Lead Mine, Mo., in April. “Henry picked out a hat that was a little too big,” Myers says. “But he loved it. He’s quite the character.”
- Playing dress-up the old school way
Terry Dalton of Hillsboro took this picture of her grandson, Logan Delassus, 3, in the kitchen of her daughter’s home. “Logan is our only grandchild,” Dalton says. “He was so cute enjoying a Steak ’n Shake meal with Papa and Maw Maw while we were babysitting.”
- Logan and his shake
Lisa Stagner of Festus took this picture of her grandson, Wyatt Johnson, in the front yard of her Festus home in November 2014. “We enjoy every minute we have with Wyatt,” she says. “He was having a great time jumping in the leaves Papa raked up.”
- Just leafin’ around
Courtney Moreland of Festus snapped this picture of his granddaughter, Emma Cook, during a 2011 trip to Clearwater Lake. “It was her first camping trip,” he says.
- Fun in the tub
Rick Mosley of Byrnes Mill took this photo of his granddaughter, Hailey Mosley, at his home in April. “This photo is special because my son, Andy Mosley, Hailey’s father, was photographed in that same mailbox 32 years ago,” he says.
- Special delivery
Vickie Vitale of Arnold photographed her grandson, Henry Vitale, on her patio swing in June 2014 when he was 17 months old. “We wanted to see his reaction to his first watermelon,” she says. “He loved it! The slice he is working on was almost gone by the time he put it down. His face was stained watermelon red, with juice running everywhere.”
- Juicy!
Karen Cowell of Arnold captured this shot of her grandson, Cameron Kester, 2, in December 2014 at her home. “He was fascinated by the animated Tigger,” she says.
- Taken with Tigger
Karen Cowell of Arnold photographed her grandson, Grayson Evans, 4, in April on the way home from a play session in a local park. “We stopped at Burger King for an ice cream,” she says. “He really enjoyed it.”
- Having it his way
Karen Cowell of Arnold took this picture of her great-grandson, 2-year-old Evan Bockhoff, at her home in March.
- Wide-eyed innocence
Jan Foster snapped this picture of her grandson, Lucas William Foster, last Halloween when he was 16 months old. “He was the cutest giraffe his grandma has ever seen,” she says. Lucas is the son of Denny and Rachel Foster, and the grandson of Barry and Jan Foster and Dean and Mary Dunn, all of Festus.
- Hey up there
Jan Foster took this shot of her grandson, Arlo Foster Bonham, at 5 weeks old. “This shot is a favorite,” she says, ‘because it shows Arlo’s bright-eyed, sweet face.” Arlo is the son of Jon Bonham and Frances Foster of St. Louis, and the grandson of Barry and Jan Foster of Festus and David and Janet Bonham of Webster Groves.
- What a face!
Wanda Peters of De Soto took this picture of her granddaughter, Payton, on the day of her confirmation. From left are Micah, Payton and Kaiden Weisbrod.
- Congratulations, Payton
Wanda Peters of De Soto took this picture of her granddaughters, Avery and Aubrey Peters, with dogwood blossoms.
- Flower girls
Janet Blankenship of Crystal City took this picture of her twin grandsons, Aden and Owen Blankenship, in their crib in May 2012, when the babies were 6 weeks old. “They are the first boys and twins in the Blankenship family,” she says. “This was a few weeks after they were released from the NICU as premature babies, so it was their first picture taken as healthy, happy babies in their own home.”
- Buddies
Cindy Heimos of De Soto took this shot of her granddaughters, sisters Brilynn, 11, and Dakota, 16.
- Just goofin’ around
Cindy Heimos of De Soto took this photo of her grandson, Emerson LaBruyere, 3, at a friend’s birthday party. “Love his smile getting ready for cupcakes,” she says.
- Smile for cupcakes
Cindy Heimos captured this moment of silliness with her granddaughters, Samantha, 13, and Kelsi Heimos, 11.
- Silly time
Judy Lucas took this whimsical photograph of her three grandsons in 2011. Twins Tyson, right, and Carson Lucas, then 9, flank their 6-year-old cousin, Mason Lucas. “Whenever these three get together at MaMa’s house, it’s fun for all,” Lucas says. “I love this picture because it reminds me of all the time they spend together. It makes my heart happy to be a part of their childhood and to watch them grow closer together.”
- You guys are killin’ me
Every year on her only granddaughter’s birthday, Judy Lucas does a photo shoot with Gabby Lucas, now 11. “She loves having her picture taken and I love dressing her up,” Lucas says. This shot was taken in 2013, when Gabby turned 9.
- Brown-eyed girl
Lynda Harris took the day off on her birthday in April to spend it with her husband and her granddaughter, Gemma White. “I spent nearly 20 minutes trying to get Gemma posed,” she says. “Then I snapped this accidentally as she watched Grandpa stand up.”
- Surprise
Patricia McArthur of House Springs submitted this photo, taken in Hillsboro.
- Mop top
Alice Cohoon of Crystal City took this photo of her granddaughter, Lexi Turner, during a 2013 visit to Bandana’s Restaurant. “I love to watch Lexi eat corn on the cob,” she says.
- It’s delicious
Alice Cohoon of Crystal City took this photo of her grandson, Brayden Turner, during a 2013 visit to Bandana’s Restaurant.
Myrna Enders took this picture of her grandson, 8-month-old Bo Smith, spending his first Thanksgiving at her Imperial home in 2014.
- Thanks, Grandma
When Terri Kreitler and her husband, Ron, assembled their grandchildren last August for a photo at their Festus home, it was the first time all seven had ever been in the same place at the same time. They’ll need a new photo, soon, though – the family is expecting two more grandchildren. From left are Austin, Owen, Jeremiah, Harmony, Jolie, Hallie and Karis Kreitler.
- A trunk full of grands
Janet Parker of High Ridge took this photo in November 2011 of two of her grandsons, Chase and Maverick Pieper. “This picture is special because they are best buddies,” Parker says. “They call me Na Na.”
- Friends for life
Janet Parker of High Ridge took this photo on Easter Sunday of her grandson, Kenneth Pieper, at her daughter’s house in Fenton. “This picture is special because it is of Kenneth’s first Easter,” Parker says.
- Hoppy Easter
Janet Parker of High Ridge took this photo of her granddaughter, Bella Pieper, during the summer of 2014 after Bella climbed the legendary tree in Parker’s front yard. “This is special because she climbed our old red bud tree,” Parker says. “All of my older grandchildren have climbed the tree, too.”
- Legacy climb
Cathy Carter of Arnold captured this moment of sweet defiance by her granddaughter, Lexi Rose Carter of Imperial, outside of Lexi’s great-grandmother Norma Kelly Rieken’s house in October of 2013. Lexi did not want to leave the house. “She sat on the front steps, crossed her arms and said ‘No! I stay here!’” Carter says. “Great-grandma Norma loves this picture and has an 8-by-10 print in her room.”
- Stubborn Love
Donna Buskirk, 61, of De Soto submitted this photo of five of her granddaughters: Carmen, Cecilia, Priscilla, Cynthia and Erika. Buskirk has 23 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and is expecting more soon. She was also a foster parent for many years. “I love my kids,” she says.
- Girl Power
Donna Buskirk, 61, of De Soto captured this photo of her grandson, Rickey, flexing for the camera. Buskirk has 23 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and is expecting more soon. She was also a foster parent for many years. “I love my kids,” she says.
- Welcome to the gun show
Donna Buskirk, 61, of De Soto submitted this photo of her grandchildren, Becca and Austin, and great-grandson Aaron. Buskirk has 23 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and is expecting more soon. She was also a foster parent for many years. “I love my kids,” she says.
- Say cheese!
Margie Loeffelman of Festus captured this photo of her grandson, Kade Palmer, who lives in Arizona. They were visiting the Butterfly House in Arizona when she was able to snap this photo of a butterfly landing on his shirt.
- Butterfly boy
Margie Loeffelman of Festus submitted this photo of her granddaughter, Reese Palmer, playing on the beach. “We were on the beach in California when we got a picture of her shadow,” Loeffelman says.
- Beach bummin’
Kelley Wilken captured this photo of her grandson, Zachary Wilken, when they were playing together at Fenton Park. “Zachary and I love to go to the park together,” Wilken says. “We spend our time looking for treasure and using our imaginations. Zachary likes this picture because he looks as tall as the tree!”
- Towering over the trees
Rosemary Graham of De Soto took this photo of her granddaughter, Somer, on Good Friday. ‘Somer came over to bake our traditional Easter Bunny cake,” Graham says. “I have been doing the cakes with members of my family for 40 years.”
- Easter traditions
Rosemary Graham of De Soto took this photo of her 1-year-old great-granddaughter, Zoey Brock, this spring. The deer Zoey is playing with was a gift from Graham’s special friends from many years ago. “All of my grandchildren rode on our deer, and now the great-grandchildren are,” Graham says.
- What a deer
Rosemary Graham of De Soto captured this shot of her 3-year-old great-grandson, Riley Brock, playing outside of her house in 2015. “All of my grandchildren rode our deer, and now the great-grandchildren are,” Graham says. “It was a gift from very special friends, many years ago.”
- Ready to ride
Lorraine Sartori of High Ridge captured this photo of her grandson, Max Steighorst, while she was babysitting him in 2007. Max had crawled behind the chair in the picture. “I quietly crept around it on my knees, and then said ‘boo!’ His face lit up and he giggled and giggled,” Sartori says. “Of course, I had to do it again for a picture. What fun!”
- Blue-eyed beauty
Lorraine Sartori of High Ridge took this picture of her granddaughter, Mia Steighorst, in November 2005 at Jefferson Barracks Park in St. Louis County. “It was our day at the park and Mia was playing in the colorful leaves,” Sartori says. “Suddenly, she discovered this huge tree. Her face beamed, as if to say, ‘look, Gramma!’ I was so glad I had my camera.”
- A tree buddy
Neil Dressler of Imperial submitted this picture of his granddaughter, Ellie Fay Markus, at Powder Valley Conservation Area on Oct. 12, 2014. “Ellie and her brother, Ryan, enjoy going to conservation areas and parks. We learn about animals and hike the trails,” Dressler says. “There is always something to climb on. In this case it was a big green frog!”
- Nature lesson
Debbie Wodicker of High Ridge captured this shot of her granddaughter, Alivia Grace “Livi” Mayer, modeling a new hat and scarf set in February. “I have a friend who lives out of state who wanted to make matching hats and scarves for Livi and me,” Wodicker says. “When the hat and scarf arrived and I tried it on her, I was so surprised to see that it fit so well...so I snapped this photo to email to the hat-maker friend, who was totally thrilled! I am completely smitten with my beautiful granddaughter. She is my world!”
- Matching grandma
Dennis Wideman of Barnhart took this photo of his wife, Berni Wideman, and their grandson, Clayton Wideman of CrystalCity, in September 2014 at the Bonne Terre Drag Strip. “It was a beautiful fall day and our grandson loves Lightning McQueen so we decided to take him to the Bonne Terre Drag Racing Strip,” Wideman says. “It looks like he is saying, ‘I am ready to give up my stroller and get me a race car.’”
- Lightning McQueen
Debbie Przygoda of High Ridge sneakily captured this photo of her three granddaughters, cousins Ava, Kyleigh and Emma Przygoda, snuggled up together watching a show. Sisters Ava and Emma live in North Carolina, while Kyleigh (middle) lives here in Missouri, so they rarely get to see each other. “This photo was taken when they were at my home visiting for Christmas vacation and I feel this photo captures their innocence,” Przygoda says. “They didn’t realize they were being photographed. Look how Kyleigh and Emma are both holding their right arm the same way. The glow of the lighting looks just warm and cozy as do the three of them cuddled together.”
- Cousin cuddles
Jean O’Rourke of Barnhart took this photo while she was watching her 10-month-old grandson, Eric David Anderson II, in October 2014 in Norfolk, Va. “Eric’s mom and dad, my daughter Jen and her husband Eric, are both in the U.S. Navy and were partaking in simultaneous exercises which required additional family care,” O’Rourke says. “So grandma Jean was called to duty in Norfolk!”
- Monogram man
Robert Hightower of Arnold took this photo of four of his grandchildren during a vacation with the entire family to Gulf Shores, Ala. during June of 2014. The older kids are 9-year-old Sophia Bradshaw and her brother, 11-year-old Sam Bradshaw, the children of Robyn and Glenn Bradshaw of Fenton. They are posing with their 2-year-old twin cousins, Sydney and Liam Oldham, the children of Kim and Nathan Oldham of Fenton.
- Cousins on the coast
Gwen M. Caputo, 66, of Festus took this photo of her 2-year-old grandson, Carter Sonderman, while vacationing with Carter and his parents, Sarah Walsh and Joe Sonderman, during the fall of 2014 at Hilton Head Beach, S.C. “He had just returned from the beach, which he absolutely loved,” Caputo says. “It was a very special family vacation where our family was able to enjoy one another and nature at its finest.”
- Sweet smile
Sonya Schweppe of Imperial, or “Me Me” as she has been affectionately nicknamed, captured this sweet photo of her 2-year-old granddaughter, Morgan Marie Callahan, on April 18 at Me Me’s house. “This picture is so special to me because I can see the love in her eyes for me,” Schweppe says. “She is my life.”
- The look of love
Jane Turner of House Springs took this photo of her two grandkids, 1-year-old Robyn Ertel and 5-year-old Magnum Ertel, in September of 2014. “This picture is special because we found this replica of a John Deere tractor at an antique mall and bought it for them to use at our house,” Turner says. “They love to be outside helping with the yardwork and playing. Magnum was big enough to ride the tractor right away but he made sure his little sister was able to ride it too.”
- Starting ‘em young
Marsha Caramatti of Barnhart took this photo of her grandsons, Joey and Vinny Caramatti, the sons of Jackie Urrea and Mike Caramatti, playing in their favorite spot in her house: one of the kitchen cabinets. Joey, then 1, is in the cabinet while 2-year-old Vinny is beaming with joy on the floor. “Playing in grandma’s cabinet was always one of their favorite spots,” Caramotti says. “I got tired of getting upset with them – so I cleared out the cabinet just for my grandsons. As you can see, they really enjoyed it very much.”
- Mischief makers
Marsha Caramatti of Barnhart captured this sweet shot of her granddaughter, Cassi Caramatti, the daughter of Jackie Urrea and Mike Caramatti, playing with her favorite childhood toy. “Barney was Cassi’s first love,” Caramatti says. “She’s 3 years old in this picture, feeding Barney. Now she’s 18 years old.”
- Barney’s best friend
Kevin Bozada of Barnhart took this flirty photo of his grandson, Liam Zorich, at his house three weeks after Liam’s birth. I like it because the smirk on his face,” Bozada says. “Looks like he is winking at you.”
- How you doin’?
Phillip Street Sr. of Festus captured this photo of his 3-year-old granddaughter, MaKaila Goette, on May 17 at Street’s house. “We believe angels are looking down on MaKaila and she is looking back,” Street says.
- Angel
Adam Schmidt of House Springs took this photo of his first grandson, Thomas Schmidt, in July of 2009 on the deck in his back yard.
- Summer loving
Audrey Hardin of De Soto took this photo of her grandchildren during a family vacation to Gulf Shores, Ala. From left are Maddi Hardin, 10; Garrett Hardin, 11; Drew Hardin, 8; Kylie Hardin, 13; Elizabeth McClinton, 3; Cole McClinton, 7; and Trevor Hardin, 7. “This picture is so special because our entire family took a vacation together staying at our own ‘private’ beach and house at Gulf Shores,” Hardin says. “The kids are growing up so fast, we may never get this opportunity again, but I hope we do.”
- Family fun
Carol Wilson of Arnold captured this action shot of her grandson, Justin Wilson, in the playroom at Wilson’s house. He was around 4 or 5 years old then. “This picture is special to me because he was really having a fun time,” Wilson says.
- Look grandma, no hands!
Judy Ronzio of High Ridge snapped this picture of her grandson, Gage Ronzio, then 5, during a March 2010 visit to Suson Park in St. Louis County. He had visited the barnyard animals, and was trying out the playground equipment for the first time.
- Sociable climber
Judy Ronzio of High Ridge took this picture of her granddaughter, Reese Ronzio, 8, during an unseasonably nice January day at Mastodon State Historic Site in Imperial. “It was a great day in January to get outside and play at the park,” Ronzio says.
- A swingin’ good time
Judy Ronzio took this photo of her grandson, Andrew Herget, then 14, in July 2014 during a visit to the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge near Hillsboro.
- A tree-mendous pose
Pat DeClue of De Soto took a picture of her granddaughter, Leah Sheridan, at her Eureka home when the baby was 5 months old. “Leah, who is now 10, was wearing a baby sweater that was worn by her mother, my daughter, Jennifer Sheridan, at the same age,” DeClue says. “It was knitted by a neighbor who, along with her husband, was living in the United States on a three-year, work-related visa from England.”
- Heirloom sweater
Pat DeClue of De Soto thinks this picture of her grandson, Jordan Sheridan, was a portent of things to come. It was taken when he was 15 months old on a family outing to a Christmas tree farm. “Jordan, now 20, whose hobby is astronomy, must have known then that the sky would someday hold even more special meaning for him,” she says. “He and I have since spent many evenings stargazing together.”
- Seeing stars
Pat DeClue took this snapshot of her grandson, Corey Sheridan, when he was 5 years old in the ‘art studio’ she set up for her grandchildren in the basement of her De Soto home. Now 18, Corey hasn’t lost his interest in art, and often joins his grandmother, a retired art teacher, in activities such as wheel pottery in her home studio.
- A budding artist
Pat DeClue’s photo of her 2-year-old grandson, Zachary Ward, taken in her home 25 years ago, shows the positive, fun-loving attitude he has always kept, even in the face of adversity. Zachary was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at age 15, and recently underwent a series of brain-related surgeries in a span of four months. “He still managed to complete his college degree, along with his wife, this spring,” she says. “I know he’s feeling better when he answers the phone with something funny to say.”
- No matter what, a funny guy
Lea Durand made this poster from pictures she took of her two oldest grandchildren, Trinity Bartlett, 7, and MaKayla Bartlett, 5. “I made this when Disney’s “Frozen” came out,” she says. “I always remind them when they argue that ‘sisters are forever,’ just like the movie. We always play dress-up when they are with me.”
- Sisters forever
Lea Durand’s grandchildren, unable to pronounce her first name, began calling her “Grandmawee” and the name stuck. She took this picture of her latest grandchild, 5-month-old Paisley Durand, during a family hike to Pickle Springs in St. FrancoisCounty.
“This is my newest angel,” Durand says. Family members are quick to point out that Paisley has more hair than Grandpa Mark. “She seriously has this smile every day. She is always happy!”
- Always happy
Carol Schuerman of De Soto captured this grin on her grandson, Jack Schuerman, in De Soto during October 2014. “Jack brings our family so much joy,” Schuerman says. “He is the light of our life.”
- Grinning grandson
Renee Miller of Robertsville captured this sweet moment shared between her grandsons, Luke and Jacob Spalding, on March 24, 2009, playing on the Millers’ property in Robertsville. “This photo is special to me because it captures a moment in time when my grandsons were totally unaware they were being photographed,” Miller says. “The honest joy of brothers at play is a treasure greater than gold.”
- Happy boys
Mary Gideon of De Soto took this precious picture of her great-grandson, Ayden DeClue, at Ayden’s home on May 2, 2015, when Ayden was just 3 months old.
- Peek a boo!
Sharleen Peters of Bonne Terre took this photo of her excited granddaughter, Olivia, proudly showing off her “110% Award” after a dance recital.
- 110%
Sharleen Peters of Bonne Terre took this photo of her granddaughters Savannah, Cicila and Olivia posing together after Olivia’s dance recital.
- Proud sisters
Roy Joedicke took this photo of his 3-year-old great-grandson, Brayden Joedicke, playing at the Joedicke home in De Soto. “Brayden is our ‘miracle’ baby,” Joedicke says. Brayden’s mother was told by her doctors that she could not have a baby because she was ill and bearing a child could kill her. “When she found out she was pregnant, she refused to abort her baby. God blessed her with the perfect child! He is our inspiration.”
- A keeper
Tammy Patterson of Hillsboro took this photo of her granddaughters, 3-year-old Avery Patterson, left, and 5-year-old Macie Patterson, having fun together at a luau party at their grandma’s house.
- Luau ladies
Susan Stewart of Cedar Hill captured this sweet moment between her grandson, Blake Cattron, and Stewart’s new puppies, Bear and Lizzy, on her driveway in March.
- Puppy kisses
Susan Stewart of Cedar Hill captured this funny day with her granddaughter, Courtney Kauffman, in 1997 at Courtney’s home in Louisville, Ky. “It was cool outside so Courtney’s mother Melissa told her to put a jacket on,” Stewart says. “She came back out with the jacket, pantyhose on over her shorts, lipstick and ready to help. This picture is special because Courtney is so special. The lipstick topped it off.
- Dressed for success
Susan Stewart of Cedar Hill took this photo in 1996 of her grandson, Wesley Miller, at her then home in Festus. “It is special to me because it was my niece’s wedding, everybody was so happy and Wesley looked so cute,” Stewart says.
- Nautical theme
Lynn Hoff of Festus took this photo of her great-grandson, Asher Storm, on Jan. 31 at a party for his second birthday. “He was so happy!” Hoff says.
- Birthday boy
Lynn Hoff of Festus took this photo of her granddaughter, Haleigh Alama Hoff, then 17, on Oct. 14, 2012, in West City Park for Haleigh’s senior pictures. “Haleigh’s papa suggested this spot, he loved the fall of the year,” Hoff says. “He passed away in January of 2013.”
- A senior moment
Lynn Hoff of Festus took this photo of her great-grandson, 3-year-old Graham Broyles, posing in a Mercy Hospital Rescue Helicopter at an event at Lowe’s. “Graham wants to fly when he is big,” Hoff says.
- Chopper wannabe
Angela Vallejo of Festus took this photo of her 6-month-old grandson, Corbin Vallejo, at his grandma and grandpa’s house in his aunt’s bedroom. “He was watching his aunt getting ready for prom,” Vallejo says.
- Proud nephew
Mary Rudisaile took this picture of her granddaughter, Maggie Rudisaile, with her grandpa, Mary’s husband, Don, during Maggie’s visit to Missouri from her Texas home in 2008. “She was worn out after playing at the water park in Farmington,” Rudisaile says. “Our grandchildren love coming to Missouri to visit their grandparents.”
- Grandpa makes the best bed
Mary Rudisaile captured this funny photo of her grandson, Hagen Rudisaile, clowning around at a water park in Farmington in 2008. Hagen, who lives in Texas, was visiting his grandparents in Missouri. “Our grandchildren love coming to Missouri to visit their grandparents,” Rudisaile says. Hagen is now 12 years old.
- Can’t contain the excitement
Mary Rudisaile captured this action shot in 2008 of her grandson, Walker Rudisaile, coming down the big slide at a water park in Farmington. Walker was in Missouri visiting his grandparents from his Texas home. “Our grandchildren love coming to Missouri to visit their grandparents,” Rudisaile says. Now Walker is 13 years old and will be in 8th grade.
- Whoosh!
Mary Rudisaile captured this photo of her granddaughter Rylie Wilson, right, with her friend, Delaney Anderson, in 2008. The girls were getting ready for Halloween in Texas during Rudisaile’s visit to see her grandchildren. Now the girls are about to enter their sophomore year in high school.
- We’re here to pump…you up!
Larry Otis of Imperial took this photo of his grandson, Joshua David Otis, during a visit to Otis’ house during the summer of 2014. “This photo is special to me because our deaf boxer, Oscar, was laying on the chair and Joshua climbed up and now Oscar is looking over him,” Otis says. “Spontaneous!”
- Best buddies
Lloyd Yancey of De Soto took this picture of his 1-year-old grandson, Bryon Yancey, at Yancey’s home. “His papa Lloyd took this photo when grandma was feeding him,” Yancey says. “All photos are special to us, but when he smiles, there’s nothing else to say.”
- All smiles
Trish Guethle of Cedar Hill took this photo of her grandsons on the porch steps at her home. Top row, from left, are Trent, Grant and Henry; in front are Sam, Harry and Spencer Guethle. “It’s a special photo because it shows a group of little boys who would sit still for a picture before they got dirty playing outside!” Guethle says. “We don’t do ‘girl’ at our place. I live in a boys’ world and I love it!”
- Boys’ day out
