It was called an unveiling, but it was really a dedication, a symbolic presentation to the town of Ivanhoe, a “Here, this is for you and you are welcome, be proud!” (I wanted to add, “and don’t let it get egged!”)

Lots of hoorah, thank you to this personage, thank you to that personage, acknowledge how wonderful everyone is, pat ourselves on the back, (all present ignored the bureaucracy, indecision, delays, red tape and reluctance to let the mural painters have a key for access to the facilities while painting) take some photos and eat some cake.

There was a translator for the talks; it was kind of hard to keep interrupting myself to wait for her to repeat my words in Spanish. Too bad I didn’t have a formal speech written out in advance to help her. I don’t actually know how to do formal speeches—I just talk.

(I skipped the cake. Thank you for your concern. Please be impressed by my restraint.)

Jonny, my intern showed up! I made him stand by me when I talked about painting the mural. Then I said that he had a great work ethic and that he needs a job. Probably embarrassed him. I don’t care. He is a good worker and does need a job!

We probably talked too much during the county supervisor’s speech; the supervisor said something about “how eloquently” I talked about painting the mural. I told Jonny that he probably had written his speech before I did my little talk.

Jonny was explaining to me that holding up 2 fingers is a peace sign; I was explaining to him that I know what it is; he didn’t explain why he always does that in photos.

Two friends from high school came!

Then my friend Lauren (former drawing student) asked me how to get to Twin Buttes, and I said, “Follow me!” So we took a short detour before heading our separate ways home.

I really really really like this mural and was so touched by all the people showing up.