Wednesday, March 19, 2014

That's One Item off my Bucket List...

Nancy, one of the women from our old neighborhood planned a pot-luck luncheon for our friend Kerstin today, and also, a wonderful private concert with Anita Burroughs-Price, the harpist with our NC Symphony. I have long wanted to touch a harp, and today was the day. Although I really wanted to touch the strings and pretend to play  it, I consoled myself with studying the frame - which was gorgeous in every way, as you can see. I believe Anita said this harp was made in 1936. 

Anita not only played for about 45 minutes, she told stories about some of the songs, or the makers of harps, or former owners of them, which really added to the enjoyment of the afternoon. 

Kerstin prepared the kitchen and dining room tables for the group of nine. 
We ate lavishly (as usual) and excellently (as usual.) Chicken and broccoli, white cheddar/Gruyere mac and cheese, a cranberry casserole (one of my favorites), croissants, a lovely congealed salad, wonderful canapes and lemon bars for dessert (to die for) and white wine for those who imbibe. I forgot to take photos of my plate, but I did get the place card - after dinner.  It was just lovely and I felt blessed to be among the invitees. 

While Anita was playing "Londonderry Air" I inexplicably began to weep. I don't know why, but the incomparable, richly-sweet sounds of a harp are soothing to my soul.  Thank you, Nancy for planning this day and thanks again to Anita for sharing her wonderful instrument and talent so freely with us. 

8 comments:

LL Cool Joe said...

It sounds and looks like you had a wonderful time. That indeed is a beautiful instrument!

sage said...

Sounds wonderful. I love the sound of a harp (and lunch looked elegant too)

Anonymous said...

How I wish I could have been there with you all. It sounds like an exquisite experience--and the tears were probably for memories. I like to think of tears as nourishing water for the flower gardens of self.

Pat said...


Like you I enjoy food and often forget to take a photo but the ones you did take capture the atmosphere and I would have been having a little weep with you.

OldLady Of The Hills said...

What a lovely special time, dear Judy...And The Harp.....Such a beautiful special instrument.....I too would be in tears....! And the food sounds delicious!!!

Ginnie said...

Wow Judy, how lucky can a person be? The harp is amazing and to be treated to her playing is just the icing on the cake. I'm happy for you.

Granny Annie said...

I love to listen to a talented harpist. You are so emotional to have cried at the music and I would have done the same.

Jay said...

Sounds transcendent.