What a day it was in DC. Mr B, 3 of his daughters Susan, Bettina and Alexandra, Sam T. Weller and myself.
I will remember it for the rest of mylife. http://arts.endow.gov/ look under LIFETIME HONORS.

I'm still pumped, the President and First Lady, were just great, and big fans. Mrs Chaney, is also a big big fan of Mr B.

The highlight of the day, is when they finished taking pictures in the Oval Office with Mr B's group, they had us stand to one side, and Mr B was to be pushed "wheelchair" to another side, the President of the United States Of America, did the honors himself.

I took tons of picture's in and around the White House, but none were permitted, in the Oval Office at the time. Just the Official Photographer of the White House Washington Post, and a Official Video Camera, which I hope will show, the whole event.

Take care
Patrick

Patrick,

Thanks for sharing what had to be a magnificent day. Bradbury is already a legend and now, it seems, he has practically been knighted. I guess that's next! If you can, post some of your photos later. I went to the link you posted and found the picture and citation for Ray:
http://arts.endow.gov/news/news04/medals/Citations_Photos.html

Now if I can just figure out your numbered postings?!!

The numbered postings were deleted. I was afraid they might represent some secret foreign code.

When I spoke to Ray Saturday morning I thought that he said that he was able to bring all four of his daughters, but my wife has been claiming that I need a Miracle Ear hearing aid myself.

Patrick, as I told Ray, I am so happy that you were able to accompany Ray on this fantastic trip. Did Ray get to do some other things while there? I figured that since he was there he may have scheduled some other activities as well.

[This message has been edited by biplane1 (edited 11-22-2004).]

For those who missed 'The Washington Post' article, let me present an excerpt that described Ray's feelings after receiving the award:
_______________

After receiving the National Medal of Arts yesterday (Nov. 17th, 2004) Ray Bradbury, the master of out-of-this-world words, sat by a window in the Blue Room of the White House. He was taking in the perfect view of the Washington Monument and a sliver of moon.

"This is the happiest day in my life," he said, gesturing to the landmark. "I started from nothing. It was a long haul and now I'm here. Look at that moon, just hanging there."

WOW. I had no idea he could see that well and am glad to hear it!

Fantastic stuff from Patrick, Biplane and all of you. Give thanks for the real and the metaphoric! Enjoy!