When the Oregon Humane Society asked if I’d like to photograph their annual Doggie Dash, I didn’t hesitate for a second.  Yes, I photograph people.  And in my humble, non-scientific opinion, dogs don’t fall far from that tree.

With 4,000 “dashers”, they raised over $273,000.  That’s enough money “to vaccinate all 10,000 pets OHS adopted last year, to feed every animal in the shelter for a year, to buy medical supplies for 1,250 spay/neuter surgeries, AND to keep two OHS animal cruelty investigators in the field for a full year!”

And to celebrate their success, I cracked a few ribs that evening during a soccer game in a most fantastic run-in with my own goalie.  A fine day indeed.

Saw some nice light the other night coming and going from dinner.

One of those things in life that make everything right in my world.

$19,000 raised.  In 5 minutes.  By 190 generous souls.  Enough to feed 100 young girls for 500 days at Children’s Heaven, an organization located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that supports girls who have lost one or both parents to HIV/AIDS.

And by the end of the night, Ethiopian Orphan Relief, an non-profit founded by adoptive parents who wanted to give back to the orphanages and country their children came from, had raised almost $67,000 thanks to an incredible bounty of family, friends and strangers.

I am so fortunate to be forever connected with the people of Ethiopia as well as this inspiring community of adoptive families.

And so fortunate to document such selfless giving.

Nothing says Spring in Portland like a Cinco de Mayo inspired birthday party, face painting, a much used swingset, and a closing bonfire under starry skies.

Happy Birthday Ellie!!  Thank you so much for letting me be a part of the celebration.