I had a chance, a few years ago, to realize just how much my instruments mean to me. I live way out in the country...very dry country...and on a hot and windy day wildfire came over the hills faster than it seemed possible. While my husband was out watering down the perimeter it was up to me to load the truck. Dogs first, but the guitars and dulcimer went in next...before family photos, important papers, original paintings. Along with the dogs, I knew I would need my instruments to feel grounded and "at home" if we had to make a new one. Luckily, at the last minute, the fire dept showed up and saved the day. But I still get the shivers every once in a while, thinking about just how fast they would burn.