Kelsea Ballerini has been on a steady path to country stardom since her first single, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” was released, but the artist is continually surprised by her success.

Ballerini posted a photo on Instagram on March 23 showing her completely shocked reaction to getting the news that she’d won the 2016 ACM Award for New Female Artist. She's seen sitting on the floor, jaw dropped, hands to her temples, as she receives the verdict. Her caption is one of complete humility and gratitude, thanking fans sincerely for getting her to where she is and noting her inability to stay calm in situations like these.

"I don't even know what to say, so for now I will just say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. For making not only my dreams come true, but for making all of the people around me who work so hard have so many beautiful moments to celebrate," she writes.

When she learned “Love Me Like You Mean It" hit No. 1, she had a similar reaction, though that time there were tears involved.

Ballerini’s genuine approach to her newfound life in the spotlight and her musical career have established her as one of country’s beloved sweethearts, and her songwriting prowess makes her one of the most promising. It’s no surprise she’s done well, though, considering she received Taylor Swift’s coveted endorsement early on, and Swift doesn’t bestow that honor to just anyone.

In addition to accepting the award, Ballerini is slated to perform at the ACM Awards on April 3, which will be hosted by Luke Bryan and Dierks Bentley. Her new single “Peter Pan” is a nostalgic ballad comparing an ex to the famous Disney character — a “lost boy,” if you will — who never wants to grow up. The video, according to her Instagram, is coming soon and looks to be as whimsical as the title. Ballerini is gearing up to go on the road with Rascal Flatts this summer, as well as some select dates with Billy Currington on his Summer Forever Tour.

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