Adjusting to the loss of our good friend while sharing new faces

Early this morning I gathered branches that were blown down during the snow and headed down to the beach at Harstine where I build the memorials on a big rock that I love.  It was raining as I left the cabin so I grabbed an umbrella, raincoat and the greens and headed off.  As I approached the rock I was looking around as I generally use shells that have washed up but this time there were none so it seemed a sign that nature had provided the perfect material in the greens..  As I started to work the sun came out and it was lovely as I completed the little tribute to our dear supporter and friend, Shirley Schulke.  I walked away thinking of her when I noticed the most beautiful wings over head, the span noticeably larger than any bird I had seen on the beach before.  It flew overhead and down the beach to above the rock and off into the distance.  It was a moving moment.  I share a little snapshot of the wreath.  It seemed a fitting tribute to Shirley as she was involved in our wreath making and made soup for the workers this year.  It was amazing also that we received word that a student at SPU had gotten in touch with us about interning to do the work that Shirley had provided.  We miss Shirley already but are thankful for this young woman stepping forward at the perfect time.

I introduce two new children today.  Daniel was photographed by Sacha and as you can see is an adorable little fellow.  We are so grateful that our this family is sharing his story and photos.

We also have another stunning face to share.  This is Jasper who was photographed by Corinne.  He is so charming.  Both boys will be up on our gallery soon. 

If you have children who would like to participate in the party to create gifts for our photographers.  That work party will be on Feb 11 from 1 to 4 here at the Ballard studio.  Please call Lew at 206-297-0885 if you would like more information.  We are looking for children who are Soul kids or young relatives of Soul children/adults.  It will be fun and we have a little gift for each child who comes to help.

Megan gave me the stats from 2011, we have completed 188 shoots, 41 more than the highest count of the past.  Its hard to feel good about higher numbers in this type of work, but at least it shows we are getting the word out so that more people who are in need of our photography are being served.  I thank the staff here at Soul and our photographers for making this happen.  The supporters who raise or donate funds also are vital to our work.  From the bottom of my heart I thank all of you.  In love and peace, Lynette