Simon was thrilled to see McKenzie Barrett, who helped rescue him last week. In fact, Simon was thrilled to see scores of people who were brought in groups from the Pig Barn Art Gallery’s First Show to meet him. He shared the billing with artists Serena Kovalosky, Jack Metzger, Diane Swanson and Maria Wulf at a very success first day (tomorrow, ll to 4, with trips to meet Simon and sheepherding demo at 3 p.m.)

I would sat at least several hundred, perhaps more, came to walk through the new Pig Barn Gallery and to see the farm animals and Rose do her work. Maria said paintings, potholders, gourds and fiber art was sold all afternoon. People came from Chicago, Virginia, Brooklyn, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, Westchester, N.Y. and South Carolina.

The show continues tomorrow, 11 to 4. Lots of good art left, and the artists will be hanging around again to explain their work. Maria did an amazing job creating this event, restoring the Pig Barn, gathering some talented artists.  I’ll give an opening talk between noon and one, depending on the crowds. Thanks to Chris and Bree and McKenzie and the amazing Barrett family for helping out and making things run so smoothly. And to Gardenworks which provided a sampling of their gourmet cheeses and other great things to eat. Gardenworks is right down the road and a great place to stop and eat and sample their crafts, produce and art. We are both so pleased that opening up the farm on this picture perfect day turned out to well. The dogs were stellar. Rose did her usual great job, Lenore greeted everyone along with Izzy and I even walked Frieda through the crowd a few times for socialization and she did very well.

This was a great idea, and Simon’s presence added something to the day, as we ferried people from the art show into the corral to meet him, which also kept things going well. And he loved it. Going to get some sleep, rest my feet and we’ll be back at it tomorrow at ll a.m.