READ ALOUD ALBUM !

It's done! I didn't know if it would happen or if I could finish it in time, so I feel SO relieved and happy to see this project to its completion.  Earlier this year, I thought it would be a lovely thing if we could record voices of friends and kids reading aloud poems and short stories, put some music to it, and compile it into an album to then be shared and sold with all the proceeds going to a local non-profit organization. The idea came about from trying to think of ways to support those in our community that are most in need in ways where we could actually use the skills, talents and passions we already have. This way, the giving and the sharing is genuine, organic, invigorating, realistic and more sustainable. Reading, books, and music are all things that we love, and this is a way to do all those things together for the purpose of something bigger than ourselves.   

Friends contributed recordings of readings as well as music (an an original song as the last track by me and my friend Zach!), the album art is illustration by my friend Ashley, and this past month I put them all together (with big help from Ken) and then published it to Bandcamp, where it now lives.

The organization that we will donate the proceeds to is called Patty's Hope. It's a local organization started by our friends, Leila and Pete, that helps biological mothers of children in foster care.  They provide support for those who are without by way of safe housing, trauma recovery, life skills, and a healthy community.  So when you purchase the album, 100% of the proceeds will go to Patty's Hope and the work that they do for mothers here in Richmond. The recommended price for the album is $8, but feel free to donate more, as you are able. Sale of the album will close on December 26, 2018, and Patty's Hope will receive the proceeds at that time, along with a list of all those who have purchased the album. 

Please purchase, enjoy and pass it on!! (You can find it here) Ask friends and family to purchase the album as a gift to you! All of us are very excited about making this and being able to share it with those around us.  We imagine you listening to this album in the car to and from holiday bustle, or cozily tucked inside your home on a cold day, while you cook or clean and children play. We hope you will be be captivated by the melodies and stories, and be inspired to share some of your own.