Terp Thon 2011

Terp Thon is a student run philanthropy organization at the University of Maryland that raises money for Children's National Medical Center. They hold a year-long fundraiser, and then end with a dance marathon where the students stay on their feet for 12 hours, raising awareness about this amazing hospital and Children's Miracle Network. The first Terp Thon was held in April 2010 with 250 dancers and $56,000 raised - the highest amount that any national dance marathon has ever raised in its first year. This year's Terp Thon had over 1,000 dancers, and they raised $138,629.44, which is the highest amount any national dance marathon has ever raised in its second year, too - incredible!

It was heartwarming and inspiring to document this event and to be able to meet some of the miracle children and their families. This was also special to me because one of our blogger friends, KT, has a beautiful daughter who was cared for by a wonderful team at Children's National Medical Center. Looking forward to seeing how much Terp Thon raises for 2012!

Marine Corps Commissioning Ceremony

I had the chance to attend a Marine Corps commissioning ceremony with my friend, Danielle, a few months ago. She and I worked together as graphic designers right after college in '01, and we've kept in touch over the years. She told me that her husband, Sean, was graduating from the Marine Corps Officer Candidates School (OCS) and that she would love to have some pictures taken at his commissioning ceremony. I jumped at the chance, not only because it seemed like an amazing event to witness, but also because this was an important achievement for Sean and their whole family. The ceremony took place at The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, VA. The exterior design of the building is beautiful and meant to "evoke the image of the flag raisers of Iwo Jima". After witnessing the powerful ceremony and Sean's pinning and salute, I was moved. I now have an even bigger appreciation for the men and women who serve our country.