Back at home after an enjoyable trip to Mark's shop in Peterborough, NH. And the guitar we have all been drooling over is finally in my hands. For me, there is no way to adequately describe it except to say it's the perfect fingerstyle guitar and it fits me like a glove.
I really enjoyed my time with Mark (as is usually the case). It is like aroma and visual therapy to spend time in his shop and I always learn so much. We had some good eats and smokes and visited some of Mark's favorite shops. We enjoyed a fresh cup from the veranda of his coffee roasting shop. What an incredible view!
This time of year is a great time to visit the northeast. The hills were ablaze. Just stunning vistas.
And to top it all off I got to watch the master at work. Here he is cutting the slots for the junction of the "X" brace.
I have to say, playing in front of a camera makes me very nervous. But Mark was gracious enough to set up his recording equipment and I knew you guys wouldn't be settled without hearing this sweet Greta with your own ears. Don't be fooled by my perceived calmness in those videos. It was nerve racking!
And as if picking up my gorgeous Greta wasn't enough I got to visit with a couple AGFers as well. I stopped by TomB'Sox place and picked a little. He is a good player. Great to meet him and his wonderful family. It was also great to be able to hear Greta from out front. Tom has a budding young singer in his 14 year-old daughter. Man can she sing! Wouldn't doubt she will become known to all of us in the future. She gives Taylor Swift a run for her money!
Then, AGF mikealpine was kind enough to drive an hour and meet up at my hotel. He brought his Stehr and we played the better part of an hour. I was amazed since he just had surgery on his elbow. He plays really well too! Then he treated me to a bite to eat along with some great conversation. A very pleasant evening.
It was a real treat to meet these two fine upstanding gentlemen.
All-in-all, a very fulfilling trip and I now get to settle in with this fine guitar and get to know her a little better.
Have to say thanks to all the UTGFers who followed along and all your gracious comments. It was a fun ride. I'm sure this guitar will remain with me until bequeathed to a lucky family member so I will return here from time to time and give you all an update on the effects of time and many hours of picking.
