By in a blur

Friday, September 8, 2023

Today’s the day… show day!

I swear, this was the fastest day I’ve ever had. After dropping my kiddo off at school, I went home to begin getting ready for the gallery reception tonight. After washing, buffing, moisturizing, I spent an ungodly amount of time on my hair and make-up… but I will say that both turned out fantastic. I even got teenage approval when I dropped lunch off for my kiddo and she said, “You look great, mom.” I spent the remaining time trying, and failing to not fret about tonight. Knowing that I’m going to be in a situation where there will be a lot of people that I don’t know and that I am expected to interact, only heightens my anxiety. And no matter how many times I hear from everyone that “it’ll be fine” or “you’ll do great” or “you’ve got this,” it does nothing to lessen the stress.

All in all, though, things did go well. While I was a little disappointed that people that I thought would be there, were not, I still had my core group of supporters. The friends and family that I know that I can count on. I also received a lot of complements on my work, which did help to ease my mind. I didn’t see anyone purchase anything, but I tried really hard to not pay attention to that.

When it came time to speak, I felt like it was an out-of-body experience. I know I went up there, I know I talked a lot with my hands (which is par for the course) and I know that I received a few chuckles and some applause when I was done, but I honestly couldn’t tell you what I said. I pretty much just blacked out. It wasn’t until after, when the kiddo and I went to dinner, that I was able to know what happened… and that’s only because she recorded the speech. I think I did okay. I hit on all of the points that I wanted to make, I didn’t swear, and I didn’t say “um” a lot. So, I’m going to consider it a win.

While I am very appreciative of the evening, I’m glad it’s over.