It all started when I needed someone to pose for me while I practiced getting comfortable with my new light set.  I thought it would be fun to shoot Natalie Sherer.  When I mentioned the possibility of taking shots with a grand piano she jumped at the chance.  Though I can’t imagine how she could get any better, Natalie is training to become a concert pianist and I was surprised when she said she never had a professional picture with a piano.

Though I’ve known Natalie’s family for several years I’ve learned a lot about her since our photo shoot.

While most of us are forced to take piano lessons as a child, Natalie, at the age of 7, was begging her parents to give her piano lessons. 15 years later she has completed 2 years at the Manhattan School of Music.  And this Fall she will continue her education at Wheaton College Conservatory of Music.

She has also been involved with several pageants in Illinois.  She is currently Miss Capital City and will be competing for the Miss Illinois 2010 title this June.  Being quite involved in these pageants she knows that the job requires her to be outwardly focused on serving her community.  And that’s where the Chinese comes in.

This week up through Saturday, May 1st you can go to Panda Express at Eastland Mall and 20% of your order will go to The Children’s Miracle Network, raising money to fund hospital’s for children.

All you have to do is print out the coupon below and present it with your order. Or click here to print out a whole sheet of coupons to share with family, friends and co-workers: panda-express coupons

She and I are also trying to “cook up” an event this Saturday at the food court from 11-1.  We’re still waiting on permission from the mall office.  It’s a secret for now but I’ll give you a clue, it involves young girls, crowns and photos.  Stay tuned to see if we get the go ahead from the mall.

If you can’t get to the Panda Express this week please consider contributing to The Children’s Miracle Network on Natalies behalf at her website.

http://www.missamerica4kids.org/m.aspx?i=24788EEA3B471B

Thanks from me and Natalie for your generous support.