We have been studying violin as a family since February, and today marked a special day of growth and a commitment to continuing this musical journey. We visited the string shop we have been renting from, RDL Strings in Bangor, Maine with the intent to purchase. Each of us played upon many different violins, closing our eyes, listening for differences in tone quality; trying to find just the right ones. I fell in love with an $8,000 bow (yes, I said bow, not violin). That bow did not get to come home with me, unfortunately, but it was a delight to make music with, if only for a little while. My new violin has a warm, mellow, round sound; it reminds me of velvet, the color of deep purple, the taste of dark chocolate laced with creamy caramel. Yes, I do love it. Rob, the owner, graciously allowed me to explore his workshop and photograph whatever I wished. So many restorative, creative works in progress in this artist’s studio. I was mesmerized by what I call the ‘staining’ wall, where he stains various parts of violins, violas, and cellos…And we celebrated our violin purchases with lunch at one of our favorite Irish pubs. This was the perfect day! I hope you are having a weekend filled with art, music, adventure, inspiration, and passion. XO