Elizabeth “Betty” Butler, 93, won the blue ribbon at the Big Butler Fair this year for a watercolor painting she submitted; it was her first time entering at the fair. Submitted photo

Elizabeth “Betty” Butler, 93, entered one of her watercolor paintings in the Big Butler Fair this year, her first time entering the competition.

She was rewarded for her entry — a painting of purple flowers — with a blue ribbon, a prize she never expected for her outing.

“I can’t believe my watercolor painting was worthy of a blue ribbon,” Butler said. “Wow, just wow.”

The lifelong Butler County resident told the fair staff that she entered the contest to make the most of life.

“Life is short, you can’t be afraid to try new things,” Butler said.

Elizabeth “Betty” Butler, 93, was surprised to win the blue ribbon for her art submission at the Big Butler Fair this year. Submitted photo