Exceptional

About this time last year I posted about Heather's paper cut project.  Not only was her art included in the 2012 school art calendar, but she won recognition for the project at the school art show last spring. 

Heather was invited to skip sophomore art and go straight to junior art this year.  However, when it was time to submit an art project to the state fair, Heather chose her papercut.  Although the project was the most time-consuming of any project she has done, it is still her favorite.  The art teacher helped students prepare their projects for submission to the state fair.

Today, my niece Stephanie and her friend went to the state fair.  Heather asked them to go find her artwork.  Stephanie took a picture with her phone and sent it to us.

Heather won First Place and Exceptional Merit.  She is so excited she cannot focus on her homework now!  She posted this picture on Facebook and then sent an e-mail to our extended family and to teacher who have encouraged her. 

Heather's art teacher responded almost immediately.  She said, "Do you realize that not only did you win first place, but you earned BETTER than first?  The purple Exceptional Merit ribbon is very special indeed!"  

I am so proud of Heather!  Congratulations, sweetheart.