Since Hazel King, 90, my mentor and teacher, was unable to come to my reception, I decided to treat her to lunch at the restaurant that is showing my work, The Mad Platter in Nashville. She was tickeled pink to join me, and I suspect doesn't get out often other than to teach and to dance (still!)
I was actually nervous (something that I rarely get) when we entered, wondering if she'd like my work or find fault with every piece. Thankfully, she was gracious, enthusiastic, and even if she wasn't crazy about my paintings, she kept it to herself. It was a very late lunch and I followed her through the (mercifully near empty) restaurant as she inspected each painting, large and small. She'd squeal "ooh! This is good!" at one, and then, "you are very brave" at another. After reviewing most all of them, we took our seats and dined on a great lunch that the owner generously and unexpected provided gratis.
Miss Hazel was a hoot! I've got to say! She was so cute and complimentary with the waitress, folks at the next table, and of course, me. She kept saying "You are very brave to have tackeled all this!" and "I can't believe you painted all this!" A few of the things she said rang like music in my ears too: "You will go far with this," and "You really have what it takes," and "You paint like noone else -- and that's a GOOD thing."
I don't know how much of what she said was sincere and how much was flattery and appreciation for breaking her free from the confines of her daily routine for the day. No matter. To me, it was a day to remember and relish. Long after she is gone (which, God willing, won't be anytime soon), I'll remember this special day and all of the pearls of wisdom she imparted to me today and along this journey.
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