Friends
Below are just some of the nice folks and organizations I've had a chance to get to know and whose services I can whole-heartedly recommend.
Attic Art and Design
http://www.atticartanddesign.com
Artwork from a talented artist that just so happens to be my sister, Christie. Emily and I hold dear several of her pieces and were lucky enough to get them before anyone else! Christie likes to create custom, commissioned artwork. She created a piece for me at my request entitled “fish in space” and it’s just what I wanted—she even threw in a sea turtle swimming among the stars. But don’t take my (admittedly biased) word for it—head over to her site, have a look at her work, and say hello.
Capitol BEST
Capitol BEST is the central Texas branch of a nation-wide organization that promotes engineering and science for high school students. They put on a robotics competition each year, calling upon local volunteers to mentor students and judge the competition—it’s quite a production! I got involved in 2003 as a volunteer still photographer and have taken photos at the event each year since. If you like robots, healthy competition, and have some time to volunteer in the Fall, consider lending Capitol BEST a hand—no experience required!
Ethnic Loft
I’ve known owner Maria Scelsi for many years and was excited to see her take the challenge of starting her own business. She’s done a terrific job, taking a once run-down location in north-central Austin and turning it into a truly wonderful space, filled with goodies from all over. Maria’s up against some big competition, but she’s committed to bringing that personal, small business benefit to furniture and home decor shopping. There’s far more in the store than you’ll find on the website, so be sure to take a moment and stop by.
Gold Ribbon Rescue
Emily and I adopted a Golden Retriever from this central Texas rescue group in 2003 as a companion for our first Golden. Since then we’ve fostered half-a-dozen times for them and I’ve volunteered my photography and design services to assist in placing dogs and with fund-raising activities. While the adoption process can seem a bit grueling at first, you quickly find that the group always has the dog’s best interest in mind—as it should be! If you’re thinking of a buying a puppy, or adopting a Golden, please check out GRR’s resources first.
Grace Harris, Waterloo Dressage
http://www.waterloodressage.net
Dressage instruction and horse training from Emily’s trainer Grace Harris. We were fortunate enough to discover Grace and our families have become good friends. Grace is an excellent trainer and just good people. I’ve spent quite a bit of time photographing Emily and Grace’s other students at local horse shows. This close-knit group has a lot of fun. If you’re looking to explore the world of dressage and live in the Austin area, consider Grace Harris and Waterloo Dressage.