One of the very special guests we had from afar was an artist compadré of mine, Emma, and her artist mother Angela. They came from Iowa, and planned their Portland family trip around Pie Day so Emma could meet me and Pino and see Apifera. Emma is a blossoming artist who paints abstracts, tells stories with puppets and uses her imagination in many creative endeavors. Last year she created a wonderful little apron for Pino's cause.
I was told by a Pino Pie Helper that Emma walked into the studio and immediately recognized the Pino Puppet up on a shelf. She also decided that Juliette the folk art donkey doll I made had to go home with her, and it was nice to see Juliette getting a tour of the farm with Emma.
Emma spent time in the barns and met the many animals. Of course, Pino welcomed her, and right before she left, Emma just had to have an apron too.
What a special day for Emma, but, perhaps even more special for me, to see her so happy amongst Apifera's creatures. Thank you, Angela, for arranging your trip so we could meet you.
