Where did Mary go?

Hi friends!

My husband are taking an opportunity to spend a year in service while traveling around the globe. During that time, I'll be focused on volunteer activities and will likely not be posting anything new to this portrait photography blog. Thanks for following me thus far; I do continue to pick my portrait business back up upon our return to the USA, so stay tuned.

Our hearts have been broken for people trapped in modern day slavery - yes, there are people truly enslaved today in the realms of forced labor and sexual exploitation. In Africa, Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, South America, and yes - in the USA. Children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation. It is real, it is heartbreaking, and you can make a difference through your everyday choices. Please learn more:

Websites:

• Polaris Project
  


• Shared Hope International



• Not For Sale Campaign



• Slavery Map
  


• Free2Work



• Fair Trade USA
  

Recommended Books:
Not For Sale by David Batstone
Half the Sky by Nicholas Kristof & Sheryl Wudunn
Renting Lacy by Linda Smith


Meanwhile, you can learn with us as we travel by checking out our blog at http://www.richardnmary.wordpress.com/

Raegan, Max, & Graham

I had the priviledge of spending every Tuesday with Raegan, Max, and Graham for about 6 months this winter and enjoyed every minute! They are bright, loving, precious children and while I taught them about how chocolate is made, tornados, and colors they taught me how to love my brothers and sisters.

Multnomah County Library Volunteers

During the last few months I've had the wonderful experience of volunteering with the Multnomah County Library and using my photography skills to capture other volunteers in action. I've met several dedicated volunteers, many of whom have been with the library for 7+ years. They are each lovely, vibrant people who enjoy serving their community. I had a great time visiting with them and photographing them. Here are a couple volunteers hard a work.

Alyce

I transformed my living room into a portrait studio in early February to capture these photos of Alyce, who wanted some formal portraits.
Alyce's daughter-in-law joined us for the portrait session to help Alyce feel more at ease. Alyce says she often has a cheesy-fake smile in photos,
so I suggested bringing along a family member or friend that could make her laugh. The session went well, and we all enjoyed laughing together.

puppy

This sweet pup is now 8 weeks old, but was just 2 days old with eyes still closed
in the first photo and 3 weeks old in the rest. They grow so fast!

Joyful Youth

The energy and exuberance of these young friends was refreshing.


Stephen and Lydia do a headstand - kindof.

Andrew's lamborghini.

Kate daringly leaps over a row of her friends!

Lydia chooses the over-the-legs route.

November Days

Jesse and Amos enjoy the crisp fall weather while riding their wagon in their neighborhood.

Downtown Chapel Portrait Project

These are some of the beautiful folks that took part in the Portrait Project at the Downtown Chapel this year.