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Today, March 10, 2017, I started my new job in the Office of Environmental Health Services at the Virginia Department of Health.  But enough about that!  I actually had to leave early on this first day of the rest of my (working) life in order to travel a few blocks to the Richmond Office of Senator Tim Kaine.  I hope my new employers will be forgiving.  

The back story:  years ago, when Mr. Kaine was completing his term as Governor of Virginia, then Secretary of Health and Human Resources Marilyn Tavenner commissioned a painting from me commemorating his service because he was absolutely the "best boss" she'd ever had. What I painted was a watercolor of a scene at Douthat State Park, his favorite Virginia state park.  It hangs above the fireplace in his Richmond home to this day.  

When I painted "Memorials," it occurred to me that this would make a wonderful gift to the Senator in gratitude for his service to the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation.  Moreover, the symbolism of two great political figures, Washington and Lincoln, would be, hopefully, inspiration to him as he continues to serve the people.  So I contacted Marilyn to see if she could help set this up.  She was more than happy to oblige.  It took about four months but she was tenacious and today it happened.

The senator was extremely gracious, and seemed thrilled with the gift.  He let us know exactly where he planned to hang it in his Washington office, and indicated he will send us a photo of it in his office along with an invitation for us to have lunch with him in the Senate Dining Room.  

A truly delightful man; he even offered to write a note excusing my cutting out early my first day on the job!