The 2015 Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation annual lundheon was held a the Hyatt at Olive 8 on May 8th. Hundreds of supporters enjoyed a lunch of chilled salmon while listening to Dr. Skip Virgin, MD, PhD talk about recent research being done regarding Crohn’s disease and IBD.  Also exciting was being on hand to see Dr. Scott Lee, MD (my sister’s doctor) receive the McCready Family Award for his ongoing efforts to better the lives of those living with these debilitating illnesses. Ray Liaw gave a moving speech regarding her young daughter’s struggle with the disease beginning at age 5. Luckily her daughter, who is now 10, takes dance lessons, piano lessons and so much more – just about anything any normal 10 year old might do.  It feels good for me to give back in this small way to the organization and people and doctors who have helped my sister in her fight to conquer Crohn’s.

You can download images from the luncheon by clicking here.

I saw Elvis! Really, I did! Great fun was had by all as the elusive “Elvis” (aka Bret Wiggins) graced the stage at the 2015 Heart Auction for Holy Rosary School in West Seattle. Guests arrived dressed for the nifty 1950’s and if lucky enough had their photo taken with Elvis.  During his performance you’d think we were back in high school, with screaming fans and dancing! Congratulations on another great auction.

Be sure and pick up your local West Seattle Community Shopper! (or click on the link) You’ll find some really great offers in the area including my own. I am honored to be their photographer of choice when it comes to photographing the winner of the local cover contest. The current cover features local high school student Alexandra.

We recently returned home from New Mexico where we travelled some back roads. I had no clue that Sears used to sell houses back in the early 1900’s! Could this be what I’ve been dreaming of?….

The sunny weekend weather called for a nice road trip so I headed over to Cle Elum to travel the Barn Quilts of Washington Trail. I came across about seven different old barns. The Bierek barn quilt is based on a quilt that their mom made. Sugar (the donkey) came out to greet me.

It rained all day but that didn’t hinder the love and fun that flowed all day long for Ian and Dorothy. Believe it or not rain on your wedding day is said to bring good luck to the marriage. The old wives’ tale tells us that the knot in “tying the knot” becomes wet and is harder to break, thus making the marriage stronger. There is no doubt in my mind that these two will survive whatever comes their way…even the rain!

It was a ‘sparkling’ evening as guests arrived for the annual Our Lady of Guadalupe auction. There were sparkling dresses, sparkling jackets and sparkling bid items. They raised enough money to buy new windows for all the classrooms. Teachers and students will be very warm and comfy soon. I’d like to thank Laura Vornbrock for thinking of me and asking me to come and take photos. We got some great candids and very fun ‘portraits’!  Take a look:

I attended a wonderful presentation by Martha Golubiec on the Japanese historical rescue of Polish children from Siberia after the Russian Revolution. They found refuge in Japan and their journey continued to Poland via Seattle. Anna Domaradzka, daughter of Leopold Kulesza, who was one of the rescued children, was present at the event as was the Hon. Consulate of the Republic of Poland in Seattle and a Representative from Consulate of Japan in Seattle were also present.

I had the opportunity to photograph the Arboretum’s Annual Fundraising event this past week. I love it for several reasons: One, the cause is worthy. Two, the people are great. And three, I get a sneak peek at the gardens with this select group of donors.  As usual the displays are beautiful and if you get a chance be sure to visit the Northwest Flower & Garden Show!