I was recently honored to be nominated for the ATHENA Award, an international women's leadership award. I was humbled to be one of eight local women chosen because of excellence in their profession, community service and as a mentor to other women. The annual luncheon, sponsored by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, was held last Friday at Little America. I was thrilled Mona Pearl, a friend and colleague, received the award. I never fathomed so many things about my Cheyenne life, including the incredible opportunites I have been given. To have my name even listed beside the other nominees brings me to my knees. The gift for me was having the opportunity to share this honor with my Daddy before he was gone. Since his last words to me were, "I am proud of you.", that is the gift that I will always carry in my heart.