I had no idea the day I had in store when I arrived at the Menlo Circus Club in Atherton, Ca on this beautiful day, February 2, 2011. I knew I was going to be with good people, generously contributing to raise money for the foundation's sole cause, early detection of cancer. I even ran into a great friend at the event, but I didn't know who was the guest of honor and being interviewed by Janice Edwards of Bay Area Vista. It was non other than Kris Carr! To be honest, I didn't really know who she was, I mean, it didn't "click" "till later. I know, sad. After shooting detail shots for a while I needed a water break, grabbed a glass of pellegrino, and headed to the room where I had my gear and purse. She was in there. Just the two of us. I said "water break!" She said "that's a good idea" and I walked out! Hello? Cass? Are you aware, or so focused on your work, maybe, that you failed to connect and say hi?! Geez! No matter. That was enough of a "hi" for now :) To put it simply, she is awesome. I wish everyone I know and love could have heard what she had to say. Actually you can, just hit up her website: http://crazysexylife.com/ She is a crazy sexy cancer survivor and she did it through her diet: what she eats: with her mouth, heart and mind. She was there for an interview and book signing. Her most popular, making New York Times Best Seller list Crazy Sexy Diet. If you don't have a copy, GET ONE! It can only change your life for the better. 1 in 3 women will have cancer in this country. That's a lot! She was there supporting early detection, but emphasizing prevention. I heard her loud and clear. I'm proud and amazed to share that the next day I took Ava to Whole Foods Market, ordered a "basic green" smoothie, which is kale, frozen mango and coconut water. Ava stole it from me, drank more than half, and I couldn't help but say out loud to onlookers "my daughter is drinking kale!". No joke, it was yummy! We've made it every day since Wednesday and daddy loves green smoothies too!
Anyway, back to the event. Ashley Hurd from Eventful Events put on this event. The detail always makes me smile when I see it because I see beautiful photographs :) She is talented when it comes to an event coordinator. I'm glad to know her :)
Each place setting had one of the three books Kris has recently released. Everyone got to take one home, even me! :)
the menu, inspired by Kris' recipes:
Salad Trio:
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Capers
Leafy Green Salad with Sweet Dijon Vinaigrette
Roasted Tomatoes with Pine Nut Spinach Pate and Young Dill
Grilled Salmon
Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup
Lemon Mousse Dessert
Among many guests were the scientists who work diligently to find ways of early detection. They are life savers. If you are interested in volunteering for a clinical trial click here. Sam Gambhir, director of The Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford University, announced an exciting new test that can be done to detect cancer early and make a huge difference in treatment and survival. It was amazing to see the images he presented. Below are more of the scientists devoted to this:
Guests enjoyed each others company and seemed deeply touched by Kris' interview.
She graciously signed books after the luncheon and talked with many
Don Litswin (below) is the founder of the Canary Foundation and also an inspiration.
And I just couldn't resit shots of his 17 month old daughter and wife. So pretty & so sweet.
It was such a great afternoon! Thanks to all for inviting me to be a part of this day! It was an honor!
Now, go check out Kris Car, buy a book and make a plant-based meal!
And smile :)
ps. if you'd like to donate to the Canary Foundation and become part of the solution click here!
