“Pat’s daughter here. My mom is a strong and positive woman—I’ve always admired her for that. The last two and a half years have tested her strength in unimaginable ways. After my dad lost his eight-month long battle with esophageal cancer in May 2016, my mom decided to move closer to me in Lexington, Kentucky—all the way from Seattle, Washington. I flew to Seattle to help her and my brother, Adam, with final moving tasks and to be a part of the memorable seven-day drive across the country. When our departure on the road was delayed by an unexpected snowstorm, she wasn’t fazed. Her inner strength and beauty helped her stay positive, handle delay with poise, and get going when able.
During her four years of Seattle life, my mom got very involved with her local community. She joined her neighborhood’s walking group and the community’s pet food bank, which provides food to pets and families in need. She helped launch a “Wags and Wine” fundraising event for the food bank, which has continued to be a success.
Upon moving to Lexington in March 2017, my mom immediately joined two newcomers’ groups and has even joined the board of one of them, now managing quarterly luncheons. She also is a regular volunteer at Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass, and recently began volunteering the RMHC Family Room at our local hospital. RMHC is near and dear to her heart, and it’s amazing to watch her blossom in these volunteer positions in a community that I love.
Here is a short story to illustrate the awesomeness that is my mom. On one quiet evening last December, she sneakily hung an ornament on each tree on her street, gifting her neighbors with a pop of color and holiday cheer. Even a few months later, no one on the street knows who the “ornament elf” was. The act gained her no popularity, gave her no direct thanks—it simply was her doing a small, selfless act that could brighten someone’s day.
My mom is my best friend. I am blessed to have her nearby, after so many years of geographical distance. Adjectives to describe my mom include inspirational, happy, silly, outgoing, open-minded, active, honest, carefree, unique, genuine, strong, supportive, and beautiful. This woman is my rock. She always chooses joy. She is one beautiful momma.” -Carrie Asalon
As someone who just met Pat, through what seems like a perfect, divine plan, I can say, “Amen girl!” to all the great things Carrie had to say about her wonderful momma! Our first conversation was over an early morning cup of coffee at Common Grounds in Lexington. I was just hoping this lady I already adored on paper would accept her nomination and agree to a photoshoot with me! Of course she said yes…you’re reading the proof, loves! I learned of her amazing heart for serving the community even through her own struggle of losing her husband. And y’all, she almost had me in tears several times during our talks! (#allthefeels) This sweet woman loves hard and lives life to the absolute fullest! I’m so SO thrilled to have partnered with Beauty Revived, Em + Me Boutique, Younique with the Y Girl (Tiffany Clonch), and The Lesser Me (Amanda Welch) to pamper Pat for a day– after all, she does that for everyone around her everyday! It’s rare to meet someone who pushes you to be better without ever saying a word. Pat leads by example and is a total inspiration to everyone whose life she touches! Oh yeah, and she’s super fun to hang out with! Through this experience I know I’ve met a lifelong friend and mentor in Pat and I can’t wait to see her for coffee again soon! I feel very blessed that life led me down this photography road and I’m thankful for all the amazing people I get to meet along the way. So much love to Pat, Carrie, and Amy (who got this whole ball rolling!) Here’s to Pat, she IS Beauty Revived!
And FINALLY...here are the images you can find featured in the Mother's Day Issue of Beauty Revived and on their blog. Pat's beauty shines through in her portraits, but to really see her true beauty, get to know her. She'll be in Lexington volunteering for whatever amazing cause she can get her hands on! Thank you to all the vendors who participated in this Beauty Revived campaign. Pat and I appreciate your kindness and willingness to serve your central Kentucky community. Shining a light on the good in the world is something I'd love to see a little more...if you're a photographer friend and are interested in participating in a Beauty Revived campaign, the next one is right around the corner! Get your cameras ready!
