That's what you're here for

I've been needing to write lately. Like really, just get it all out. I'm not sure if it's the seasons changing, the warm drinks, need for heat constantly, or staying home and working on projects more than road trips this time of year - but all I really want to do is read good novels and write about everything.

I'm really having a hard time accepting that Halloween has come and gone, and since we didn't have our annual party since we're mid bathroom remodel, we're planning a Thanksgiving one. How are we here already?! I'm excited, as I always am. At the same time, I'm craving a walk through of the year and remembering all that has happened.

I'm convinced time is on fast forward most days, and while I try to soak in as much as I can and be as present as possible, it's inevitable. I never finished editing last years photos (!!!) and never got around to making a book to showcase all that I had captured. This year isn't looking so promising either. Sadly, I've gotten into the habit of quickly scanning through my favorites, editing those to share, and moving on. I never get back to the last batch, and well, they're still there. My plan is to really knock them all out and cull down the massive amounts that I have and showcase them.

I gently encourage my clients to print photos - some never do, and others print them all! I love that, and always wonder what people do with their prints. I really love designing albums, and I want to make more of my own. I've been passionate about albums since my early teen years, technology has just grown and changed that a bit. I love how it's developed, and I hope to create pieces of art that people really want to skim through.

So I'm taking this time of year to rest in more time for myself, to read more novels, to prepare carefully curated meals, and to edit and print. I want those images all over my walls, for my family to see, and for my children to look through the books I make for years to come. It doesn't matter if you print through an artisan company that everyone raves about, or through your local lab. It doesn't matter if you spend a few dollars or a few hundred, do what makes you happy, because I know I'll be working on that too!

Oktoberfest in Leavenworth

Something So Good

For the second year in a row, I have photographed the Relay for Life in Tacoma, Washington. One of the largest Relay's in the nation and one of the most humbling experiences of my life. It's the very first lap, as the youngest survivors stand up front holding the banner, wearing their purple survivor t-shirt, laughing, giggling, and smiling for the cameras as they get loads of deserved attention - it's that moment that I have to hold back tears. We all have that image in our heads of what a cancer patient goes through, and if you haven't experienced it first hand, you can only imagine.

We all, sadly, know someone. or many someones.

As I cull through thousands of images there is one constant, we are all there for the same reason. We all believe and hope and pray and support. You have to, because the alternative is non existent. I love going through these images of these people, these families - Relayers - so happy. They are all so very happy to be doing what they're doing. Whether they currently have cancer or are crying tears of love in memory or are simply fighting for the cause, everyone really is happy to be there. That motivates me to no end to capture those smiles and dancing as they take on another lap.

There are Relay's all over the country, if you've never been, I highly recommend you stop by sometime just to see what it's all about. Bring a friend or your family and just have fun. There are food vendors, fundraisers, and so many neat booth set ups from those who stay the whole 24 hours and camp, that you can't help but love it all! Even better, get involved somehow. You can't regret the time spent.

Anyway, I'm not sponsored or anything, but I just finished editing and wanted to share so many images here from this experience. Since that would take forever to get through, the illuminati bags honoring those who are fighting or are being remembered was a great moment for me during the night. Thousands of bags are decorated for that special someone and are lighted. Then every single person in attendance walks a lap on the track before allowing the honorary speaker a chance to share his voice.

If you are interested in seeing the images from the event, I'll be sharing some on my Facebook page.

Our Year In Review