i held a set of bagpipes for the first time today.

the word ‘held’ just doesn’t adequately capture the experience. i thought that grasping a plaid-clad bladder under my left armpit, balancing three long pipes on my shoulder and arm, and clenching the mouthpiece in my teeth and chanter in my fingers would be completely awkward. it was not.

it was like being reunited with a lover after a long separation.

i hope that jana doesn’t get jealous.

i’m still months away from being able to play the pipes with proficiency, but my motivation got a strong boost today. i can’t wait to share my love for the bagpipes with my neighbors, on a daily basis::