From the Paris end of St John Street, to the Paris end of, well .... Paris!

Official confirmation came through today that I have been awarded a

to study bow making in France this year! Woohoo! I am thrilled and honoured and, quite frankly indulging in a little gloating for a minute. I have already taught my one and a half year old daughter to say "Fellow" as a regular tribute to me.

Thanks to my referees for giving me such glowing praise in the application. I am sure it is thanks to you that the application was successful.

It's really excellent news and now the adventure of planning the trip begins. My mind keeps drifting towards figuring out how I can sneak as much motorcycle riding into the itinerary as possible. (Motorbikes are my other obsession.) Aside from the incredible experience and opportunity of learning the traditional craft of bowmaking from French masters, I fancy taking the opportunity to also ride a

cool bike

through the French countryside, stopping for the occasional

fromage et baguette! Oui

!

Back to reality, cello number five is progressing well. It looks like a good cello to me. I'll be taking it down south for a test run in the next few days and I am confident that it will sound like a good cello as well.