a blog about raising a daughter with cerebral palsy and learning unexpected lessons along the way

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Apples on Display

In early January, a note was sent home from the art department of Oia's school via her communication folder. A portion of it states:

This is to inform you that we have selected a work of art by Oia to be displayed at the State Capitol. It will appear in the General Assembly Building in Richmond, Virginia. We have put this show together and are sending it to Richmond at the request of Mr. Rob Bell, Delegate, 58th District, from the House of Delegates.

I had no idea what art of Oia's was chosen and frankly, I didn't care if it was absolutely created by her. It's likely the project was a joint effort between she and her assistant but that doesn't matter. What does matter, however, is that someone thought to include Oia, chose her art, and that in somewhere kind of important hangs a piece of work with her touch, and her name. There was no way we were going to miss its display.
So, our party of four said no to work and school one day last week and made our way to the state capital. We really talked up the venture with Oia making sure she felt special about the idea. Once we entered the General Assembly Building we were instantly enveloped by a sea of dark suited, hurried Delegates darting here, there and everywhere. Such a busy building with busy people but even men with places to go and people to see slow down, step aside and smile for little girls in pink coats wandering aimlessly in such grand hallways. We stuck out like sore thumbs that day.

Once we wove around in an attempt to not be in the way, we finally made it to the 8th floor and found Oia's apples hanging high. We ooh'ed and aah'ed made a big deal over her masterpiece. She wasn't all that into it though as the copier across the hall was far more intriguing. I mean, all those buttons.
Del. Rob Bell's assistant texted him to inform him that we were there and asked that we waited around a few minutes as he was heading in our direction to meet Oia and pose for a picture with her. Oia's anxiety kicked in during the short wait but with Rob holding her, she was tolerant for a quick picture.

I think these apples will find their way onto a wall in our new home one day soon. They'll be one of many "masterpieces" yet to come, I'm sure. So proud of our Kindergarten artist.

1 comment:

  1. Yay, Oia! A public display of one's work is totally EXCITING!!

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