Mary Beth Yencha

I have always loved the violin but was never able to take music lessons as a child. Last year I was at an Irish festival and there was an exhibitor selling violins. I decided that I was going to try and learn this beautiful instrument. To my friends and family, who never knew of this desire, I referred to it as my mid-life crisis. They surprised me with their support and encouragement.
I am still a rank amateur and it's uncertain whether I will ever actually be able to play. But this desire and instrument have given me focus, joy, down-time (I can go into my own world and decompress after a stressful day), and a greater appreciation for the friends and family that I know are always there for me but maybe take for granted.