This spring I spent a lot of time choosing a new violin. This involved a lot of trips to the violin shop, each time returning home with another borrowed instrument or bow. It was fun, but after a while it got to be a lot of work giving each candidate enough playing time. My violin teacher and her husband, who is a luthier, patiently helped me through the selection process.
The winner is pictured above. It is labeled “Vissenaire Freres, Lyon” and dated 1876. Who knows — I gather labels get slapped on violins in a fairly cavalier way. I spent more than would seem reasonable to the average citizen, but far less than I might have. I enjoy playing it and that seems to be the point.
This weekend was the balloon festival. My friend, Barb, from college came to visit. We went to see the Friday evening ascension. It was incredible to be out on the field surrounded by all these huge balloons, magical to watch them lift up, seemingly lighter than the air itself.
We’ve had a lovely relaxing weekend. I opted out of all commitments and enjoyed my time with Barb. Dave was busy with the Revels North Solstice Celebration, which we also attended. Today is hot hot hot and I think we will go for a swim in the lake.
