Gratitude for a Great and Generous Gift

There is no greater honor than being recognized and awarded by one whom the Spitting Vessel has the highest regard for as a human being, a mother, a genteel woman, and artist of immense talent and generosity. Kim Barker of Laketrees, has conducted one of the most meaningful competitions on the blogosphere; and, for the third time, has offered a portrait of the winner's choice of subject, which she will execute herself and pay for its transport to the winner's location. Beyond the monetary value of the gift that goes into thousands of dollars is the priceless meaning of this creation that will last several lifetimes. The competition for this overwhelming Christmas gift this year was won by the Spitting Vessel.

The gratitude that this site has for this valued gift cannot be expressed in words, since the meaning and purpose of this victory represents a symbol between parent and child, father and daughter, baby boomer and generation X; where bonds of deep affection and respect will be enriched by trust and faith. Trust in the choice made for a lifetime partner and in the manner in which that choice was nurtured by discernment, resulting from sound parental guidance; and faith in the efforts exerted to provide the proper upbringing for children within one's capacity and means, regardless of how imperfect the provider is, or the number of missteps and flaws that transpired in the process. And in this symbol, the Spitting Vessel is privileged to to say that Kim Barker has serendipitously contributed much to its fulfillment. Her kind nature and innate generosity has crossed paths with the need to seal these bonds, to blend perfectly with the unspoken message that required a wordless representation.

To Kim Barker and Laketrees, thank you very much. To Jan Dean who judged the entries, the Spitting Vessel realizes it was a difficult choice and anyone could have won. But this site thanks you for the criteria you made and for the decision you have arrived at. :-) --Durano, done!