Tom,
I turned on the news and what did I see? Your smiling face staring back at me.... (Our local news played a clip from the unveiling)
The painting is beautiful and I'm so excited for you! I know how prestigious this commission is and what a great honor it is, but if you want to play it down and act like it's not a big deal, I'll try to play along....

BTW I'll be going to Duke in a few weeks, so where can I find your painting and will you include a map?
with love,
Renee