4th of July Weekend

The weekend started with an fun-filled road trip to Renton with Mrs. Spokane County Amy Clark.  I am so proud of Genay Tucker, Miss Spokane.  She won the interview and was third runner up at the Miss Washington pageant this weekend.  Although the auditorium had no air conditioning she was able to remain calm, cool, and collected through the entire event.  We were lucky enough to be joined by other visiting queens and meet some truly wonderful and talented women. 

Before the pageant I was fortunate enough to join some of the Mrs. Washington contestants at The Keg Steakhouse in Renton.  The food and company were both equally amazing! 

Ending the weekend celebrating the 4th with family around the pool with homemade ice cream topped off a fun holiday weekend.  Although I am a bit red I am looking forward to the summer officially arriving in Spokane with 80 degree weather in our near future. 

Welcome July!

Miss Washington

We were very excited to see Genay Tucker off to the Miss Washington pageant in Renton this weekend.  She is truly a special girl.  Look for pictures to come from pageant as we travel to cheer on our local girl on Saturday at the pageant.

Father's Day Message

On this special day I feel the need to post a special message urging those who like me have lost their father's to take that trip down memory lane.  It is with mixed emotion that I replay those special memories of moments with my own father.  While I miss him greatly I am forever grateful for the time I had.  With his guidance and mentoring (and sometimes tough lessons) I became the woman I am today.  He taught me perseverance in the face of adversity, creativity, and compassion along with many other critical life skills.  Little did I realize growing up his passion for opening the minds of future leaders would be a trait I inherited.  I feel blessed that I can now share that message with my own children and others.  Without a shadow of a doubt I know you are looking down upon us with a proud smile.  My special message to you dad, you were right we all have the power to make a difference.  Stay tuned, I am just getting warmed up!

Heroic Leadership ~ Gonzaga

It was my privilege to work with Dr. Tony Andenoro today during the Heroic Leadership class at Gonzaga University.  Listening to others share their stories and watching as future leaders applied the concepts of effective leadership was exciting.  It was comforting to know while challenges exist within all of their respective organizations these students have the passion to deal with the issue in an ethical and compassionate manner.  Thank you for letting me be a part of this special day.

Angel Ball Gala

Saturday I was able to attend the annual Angel Ball Gala.  This was the fifth year for the event and the numbers continue to climb as Julie and Shane strive to help find a cure for Type 1 insulin dependent juvenile diabetes.  This year the numbers topped 350 as Spokane community members came together to raise awareness and funds for this meaningful cause.  A very moving video was shown in which actual family members described the impact of this disease on their families.  Thank you for to Julie for allowing me to be part of this special event. 

Vanessa's Promise Luncheon

Last week I was honored to help out with the annual Vanessa's Promise luncheon.  The event kicked off with a moving poem about the impacts of child abuse delivered by a young girl.  I have to admit there may not have been a dry eye in the room.  As the lunch progressed we were able to see video clips as well as hear yet another moving story delivered by grandparents that were re-introduced to the role of parenting.  It was very powerful to listen as they described the events that occured placing them into the role of primary care givers for their newborn grandaughter.  At the conclusion of the event it was amazing to watch not only my table members but others dig deep to ensure this critical organization not only sustains itself but has the resources to provide care for additional children.  Thank you so much to the many Sterling Savings Bank employees who filled our three tables as well as all of the other table captains.   Special thank you to Kristin and Kim for volunteering to join forces with this organization. 

Mad Hatter Tea

The venue and people made this afternoon extra special for members of the Mrs. America, Miss America, and Miss America USA organizations.  It was fun to enjoy the sunshine and some crazy hats all to benefit St. Joseph's Family Center. 

We all got to marvel at the various hats on display by various vendors. 

Miss Spokane Genay Tucker

The event was complete with an Easter egg hunt officially kicked off by the Mad Hatter and Alice.  The hunt was officially over in less than two minutes.  Amazing how quickly the eggs were cleaned up.  I may have to try that tactic at home with my daughter and her room.

Mrs. Spokane County Amy Clark

Thank you St. Joseph's for allowing us to be part of this special first annual event on an amazing Sunday afternoon.


Hope everyone has a wonderful week.  Crossing my fingers for the sun to stick around just a few more days.