My first public chalk art event was a success. I learned some things that I would do differently next time, but overall I am pleased with the results of the day. I created this United States design using the help of the community of people who showed up at Kiwanis Park in Battle Ground, Washington on Saturday. It was the day before the July 4th Holiday and the day was hotter than I expected in the full sun, but the contributors were great! I had young and old help draw, color and add ideas to the map. Most walked away feeling proud, inspired or full-filled in some sort of way. This is what I came out for!

Special thanks to all those who helped. I wish I could list all the names, but I don’t have them all. Young Lucy was the first and she signed her name by the heart she colored. Whyatt came with his whole family and signed by the stars he colored. But a special thanks goes to my bicycle riding sister, Laura Schroeder, who came to help me finish this monumental undertaking.