Another Pie Day has left the hosts, both donkey and human, exhausted but fulfilled.
The skies gathered just enough clouds to keep us warm but shaded and was perfect for allowing the donkeys to mingle in comfort. The pie, if I may say so myself, was exceptionally good this year and if you didn't like apple you could have chess, blueberry, peach, walnut, strawberry or rhubarb. When I look at the slideshow of the day, I can smell a mixture of warm crust and donkey dust.
We had many repeat visitors which makes us feel that people like us. Many out of towners too that came in all shapes and sizes. Even though I had my internal wings on allowing me to be in as many places at once as possible, I know I missed talking to some people which was frustrating - so next time, don't be shy, run and tie me down.
This year I had a large board up with pictures of all the animals we've adopted. People enjoyed this and it also allowed them to meet the animals in the barnyard. This year we also thank artist and friend Carolyn Holman for selling some of her fabulous Girl Bands [head wear] - I proudly wear them. She donated 20% to Pino's cause.
We also had a new arrival to the farm on Friday - a senior goat who spent his entire life with one owner as a pack animal. He visited with people through the donkey fence. I will write about him this week as his magical qualities deserve a thoughtful posting. He loved all the carrots which pleased me because he is dreadfully thin.
We had a 97% good guest behavior this year. One very naughty attendee brought her dog even though we asked for all pets - even well behaved ones- to stay at home. If she comes back, I will firmly but politely escort her to her car and give her a piece of pie on a plate while I wave good bye and say something in rhyme.
There were many memorable moments. We found four year old Dalton at the front garden where I have a sign that says "When you see a flower, say 'thank you, bees'". He asked his mother to read him the sign, and then he began thanking all the bees that were buzzing around the flowers.
There was also a plethora of red headed children, always a sign of a good gathering.
Net apron sales helped a donkey sanctuary and my art/lavender net proceeds all go to maintain Apifera's old adopted animals.
