Vincent then had about 1/2 hour left for the autograph/picture line.  I had promised Trisha that I would try to get an autograph for her and deliver a "special" letter from her, so I got in line.  I went up quickly and I was nervous all over again.  I wound up saying very little, told him about Trisha, and told him I was glad he was involved with Habitat as I had been involved since College.  I was then finished.  Got my pic taken and onto the next person.
Val came to Pittsburgh all the way from Texas.  She was once again excited to see Vincent again.  She brought a bag of goodies to share with Vincent.  She always amazes me how much she can get into a bag.

After everything was over, they announced that the event raised over $3000 for Habitat for Humanity.  Lots of us stayed after the event to hang out talking, and help clean up.   I will say that I enjoyed the Pittsburgh event a little more than the tea, maybe because it was a little more "intimate."  But I think the largest factor for me was the room size was much more adequate for the number of people.  There was enough room for the auctions and raffles.  I also enjoyed that there was a little relaxation time with the lunch and then moving onto Q&A.  Since the skit was my idea, I wish it had raised more money, but I think the entertainment value was worth it.  You can only go to so many Q&A's and seeing a star interact with a fan is alot more fun and spontaneous.

That night, those still left had dinner in the hotel.  There were around 20-25 of us crammed in a room in the back of the restaurant.  At some point, Sunny's cell phone rang.  She later made an announcement that Vincent had called and was home safe, and to order a bottle of wine for us.  Each table got their own bottle and we then toasted Vincent for a great day, and for great friends!
As I drove home the next day, leading Sunny and Leslie home, I called my hubby who told me that someone had called my house to let me know that Patti had been in a car accident, but she was ok, just suffered a concussion.  So at least I knew that Patti was alright, as we were all concerned all weekend about the fact that she had never come.  So now she is going to have to come in September!
Once again, Vincent has inspired many of us for a charitable cause, making us introspective as to what it is we offer the world.  I came away from the weekend with a feeling of renewed friendships, and new friends.  I look forward to seeing everyone in September and meeting many more new friends!  Bravo for a job well done to the FOVI board and planning committee.
One Final Thought
The day I typed this up I received my "Habitat World" newsletter in the mail.  (God works in strange ways!)  I thought I would share for those who are not familiar with Habitat, that it is going to be celebrating it's 25th anniversary of Building this September.  For more info:  www.habitat.org

The scripture on the back of the newsletter is this:
"Jesus said, 'If one of you wants to be great, he must be like the Son of Man, who did not come to be served, but came to serve and to give His life for others."  - Matthew 20:27-28
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