Went on the factory tour today. It's a little more than an hours drive up from Oakland, and the butterflys started before I left.
I was a little early and they were expecting a few more guests, so Mary fixed me up with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. (I don't think i've ever turned down a cup of coffee in my life)! Thanks again.
Bob took over, taking us through the shop. I think he genuinely enjoyed fielding some knowledgeable questions. At one point he said he might just be a little jaded, being around this stuff all the time.
Mica took over in the showroom. I had a question as to why cherry doesn't seem to be used more. Interestingly enough, her personal bass has some cherry from a board and a story of it's own.
It's just incredible... the smell of the wood... the instruments in all their phases coming to life. At every stage I must resist this urge to take a bite out of 'em...
It's pretty humbling, knowing the talent that has passed this way. At the same time they all made me feel like I was just an old friend, stopping by to say hello.
I can't promise you the same experience, but if you ever get the chance.....
