Feeling so loved. :)

Gratitude 199 (aka...this entire post! haha!) 

That. Was. AWESOME!! What an incredible evening! I couldn't have asked for a better performance. Sure, it was not perfect, but in the words of Lynn, "Sometimes, imperfection is what's beautiful in life." I had such a great time on that stage and know that this is exactly what I am meant to be doing. :)

It really was an evening for the book of Samantha's life. Beautiful dress. Beautiful music. Amazing teacher who made sure I was fully ready for this endeavor. In good voice. High heels. A pretty black dress to wear to dinner after the recital. My lovely Crystal helping me with every little thing...and coming backstage at intermission and giving me a neck massage so I didn't get tense! Practically my entire family here (...and all in my apartment at 4:30 this afternoon!). My friend Rachel making my hair very pretty and lacquered in hairspray! Watching Gilligan's Island for nearly three hours this afternoon to keep my mind off of my nerves. Well wishes from those who could not attend. Chad carefully matching his tie choice to the color of my gown. (Gotta love him!) Having practically an entourage following me carrying my things for me. (Oh, how fun it is to be a diva sometimes! haha!) A fabulous reception prepared by my mom, sister, gram, and aunt. Surrounded by friends. Then, that moment when you first step on the stage, pushing the nerves into excited energy, and knowing it is completely right where you are standing. Full and resonantly resounding high C's. Double bows before intermission! A knock-dead premiere of Q's piece, complete with the high E-flat. A standing ovation at the end. Bouquets of flowers. Constant jumping and high-fiving with Chad after every set because it was so exciting. My friend Sarah helping me out and then back in to my dress so that I can pee before greeting the crowd at the reception. Feeling so loved while everyone wants to talk to you...yet slightly overwhelmed with trying to give everyone equal time and opportunity but knowing that's impossible. The giant circle of SAI girls singing the SAI chorale after the recital. The adorable old Hungarian man who came and brought me flowers and then talked to clueless Dad for a very long time, while Dad barely understood anything he said because of his thick accent. Another Hungarian friend, Agi, bringing pogacsa for my reception. Lovely commentary from my professors. A delicious dinner and glass of Riesling wine at Giuseppe's. Hanging out at my apartment with my family and Crystal. Unwrapping the gifts and placing the flowers into vases. A stream of Facebook wall comments from friends. Endless thank-yous to those that helped make today possible. Life is beautiful. And the evening was bliss. :)

(I promise pics to be inserted soon! Unfortunately, due to the "no flash," my camera produced a series of blurred images. Waiting for others to send me what they took. Perhaps some sound clips, too, when I get the CD...)