Well, last Friday was the artist reception in Naples. My husband and I spent a delightful evening browsing the art and talking with the people. "He Is" was hanging in the farthest corner to the right and it was wonderful watching the people look at it, getting as close to it as they could. My husband heard several looking for their names on it. The art that was hanging was wonderful! I felt so honored to have my work next to so many talented artists' works.

I was asked to have my picture taken next to "He Is" for promotion and publication. One of the women there came up to me after the photographer finished and asked me all about "He Is." She seemed very disappointed that I had it listed NFS (not for sale). Then it was time for the awards to be given out.

As each award was given out, and each winning artist happily receiving them, I couldn't help but muse at what a wonderful feeling it must be to have your name called out. One woman's smile was so infectious. She was thrilled to have received her prize, as she should be. I couldn't help but be thrilled for her as well. One man seemed happy with his prize, but he also looked as if he has received many over the years. Either he was hiding his excitement well, or he was simply used to the acceptance of awards. Several artists weren't there to receiver their awards.

Then, my name was called! I couldn't believe it that I heard correctly, so I looked at my husband in shock. He smiled and clapped and nudged me to go forward. I couldn't help but think of the woman who's smile was so infectious. Mine must have been as wide as Texas is large! LOL! Pictures were taken, hands were shook. A few more names were called for awards and then it was done.

People came over to me and offered their congratulations and just felt that they had to share how much "He Is" touched them, amazed them. Many of the sponsers sought me out and had to explain their feelings as well. One artist came up to me and chatted with me for the remainder of the evening as he is a pencil artist as well. He told me that many people before the awards were announced were seeking me out. I truly had no idea. The strangest thing was walking out of the building and seeing a group of people turn and watch me, pointing and talking. It felt very odd, and I couldn't help but turn around so I couldn't see them any longer. My husband seemed to get a kick out it, though! LOL!

So I have to say that I'm quite thrilled! I never anticipated getting an award. I was just thrilled to have my work hanging. "He Is" will continue to hang until June 29th. To me, that is the greatest award: that others will be able to see it too.

Just thought all of you would like to know the outcome.