I wrote an article on Ed Reep, a World War II combat artist, a few months ago and it was published in
America in WWII magazine. I was fortunate enough to correspond with him (he's 94 years old) and in the process, I also got to know his daughter,
Susan. Through Facebook and email, we continued to connect, even after the article was published. When Susan told me that she and her husband, Mark, were making a cross-country trip from California and wanted to stop in Nebraska, I was thrilled. She also said she was bringing me a surprise. I had no idea what it would be, but surprises are always fun to get!
We met Monday night at a local restaurant and we had a fabulous time. They are both terrific people, full of life and eager to embrace adventure. A few days earlier, they had been in New Orleans and went to visit the National World War II Museum, so of course, I had to get the details as I've never been there.
And what was my surprise?
This Giclee print of one of Ed Reep's sketches he did in Italy during the war:
I was so touched and humbled to receive this. The original is in the U.S. Army Museum in Washington, D.C. I cannot wait to have it framed!
I'm so glad I met Susan and Mark, and I hope to someday visit them in California.
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Melissa, I thought about you Monday and hoped you were having as good a time as you did! That print is so cool, too! What a wonderful surprise indeed!!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to get it framed. :)
DeleteI'm glad you had such a good time. And how wonderful to be given that print.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely a highlight of the year!
DeleteWow, what a great experience! I hope you don't mind that we shared this link to our Tw and FB pages...thanks for doing such a great job, we were happy to feature your work on this amazing man. --Heidi, America in WWII magazine
ReplyDeleteHi Heidi - That's absolutely fine! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful evening, and that print is amazing! (So is that photo of you and Susan!)
ReplyDeleteIt's a small world, always lovely when connections are formed. We never know how we'll be set into situations and lives; so glad to read this!
Thanks, Anna! I love little blessings like this in life. :)
DeleteGreat update! It was nice that you guys were able to connect up again. I really like the print, what a great surprise! Did she enjoy the National World War II Museum? I was wondering if I should put it on my "future travels" list.
ReplyDeleteYes! She said it was fantastic. She also got me a magnet from the museum, too. =D She said it's growing all the time and in another few years, they'll have over 13 buildings to visit.
DeleteDat must be great!
ReplyDelete