Kadidilydeeville: Notice Of Continued Life

I have not, my dear friends, disappeared from the face of this planet. On the contrary, I have been appearing all over this planet of late, particularly if we allow “of late” to include the past four months. Even if we limit “of late” to this past month, I’d likely show up on some sort of scientific planetary activity scan.

[Insert break for mental “scolding” and “refocus” lecture.]

Many of you are all too aware of where I’ve been recently, as you’ve been right there with me, sucking in the paint fumes. To those of you who have escaped the Paintathon, I extend a sincere congratulations and a reassurance that I will manage to rope you into some other taxing and very un-enjoyable “because you’re a good friend” job at some point.

Now I will take a moment to unveil the Painters Of Honor Awards:

Most Focused and Productive:

Tiffany Carlson, who unveiled her secret Super Painter status as the rest of us stared from the kitchen floor where we sat consuming pizza, awed by the flurry of tornado-like painter activity coming from a being that scarcely measures over five feet. Amazing.

Most Unflagging Energy and Undying Chatter:

Stacy Steyer, who managed to not stop speaking for more than two consecutive minutes at ANY point as she painted, and painted, and painted for two days in a row. Extra award of honor is deserved in recognition of her offer to help FINISH the job this weekend! Kudos as well for roping Mike into helping. Astounding powers of persuasion.

Most Dedicated With Simultaneous Whining:

Dan Philipp, who made the trek from Milwaukee to Madison on less than four hours of sleep (which we were NEVER allowed to forget) and for single-handedly not-quite-finishing The Green Room! It should also be noted that he lugged his painting supplies AND ran to the paint store for ADDITIONAL supplies when the need arose! His smiling, unshaven, sleep-deprived face was sunshine to us all.

Most Eager to Volunteer (coincidentally, also most inexperienced):

Britt Zeidler, who had never painted before in her life, and who painted only small sections of the ceiling (actual target: wall) in her painting initiation. Her positive attitude and willingness to take on any assignment was a boon to us all!

[Coming soon: The Movers Of Honor Awards.]

To sum up, I am alive. Surrounded by chaos, covered in bruises, calorie-deprived (a completely different story,) but alive. I am – once again – reminded of what amazing people surround me in my life. Why it took me so long to realize that I can ask you people to help me with things – and that it results in ACTUAL HELP – I cannot imagine.

Further proclamations to be issued as progress is made.