Hi,

Saturday, August 7th I had an enjoyable time at the Madison Valley Arts Festival.  I was there as an author and met many fine local and visiting people.  Sold a few books…but hey…I’m really not attached to the outcome.  I commend the fine staff that put on the festival.  They were very helpful and concerned that everything was just right. The Ennis Arts Association has got this one down.

Live music, all kinds of juried art, good food and a small town friendly atmosphere.  A great way to spend a Saturday. The weather even cooperated which had a lot of us concerned for it hasn’t been the best for the past couple of weeks.

I met some of the other Montana authors who were set up in the tents provided for us.  I met some great people from out of the state also.  One from Nicaragua, a couple from San Francisco, another couple from Arizona, a man from New York, and a family from Washington state.  I’m sure there were other notable mentions but it was all such art in motion. 

I love to people watch and my book signings are a great opportunity.  There seems to be an incredibly congenial atmosphere around these kind of events.  Art walks, Festivals, May day celebrations, all bring out the families to have a great time.  I never heard a crying child.  Saw a lot of them with painted faces.  I never heard any cross words or anyone having a problem.  People were helping each other and asking nothing in return..nor were they expecting anything.

This is the country.  This is what America is all about.  This is sharing and caring and networking on the best level.

Face to face.  One at a time. Sharing ideas and thoughts and experiences.

Thank you Ennis Arts Association for having this venue.  It was a very pleasurable experience.  Hope I get to the next one.  As a matter of fact I’m putting it on my to check calendar right after I sign off.

Madison Valley Arts Festival…truly a Montana celebration of great art and camaraderie.

John