MAN, I LOVE THE PIPES



Bagpipes. They are something else.



The last time I saw a guy playing them was at Peggy's Cove in Maine. He was standing outside a lighthouse there. I wanted to stay for an hour, but was pulled and tugged away to go to some tourist trap and look at old bottles.

The first I remember hearing were played by an MTV attorney in our school's operetta Brigadoon. I thought that was pretty cool. Then I moved close enough to him that I could hear him practicing. Somewhat disappointing, but also somehow appealing to me. He also wore the kilts and complete outfit. Not appealing when one has his build. But still, it was cool for SoIL.


The most touching I ever saw and it has an indelible place in my memory bank was the soloist at golfer Payne Stewart's funeral. In the fog, he played of course in full Scottish attire, and walked into the woods. It was poignant.

Unfortunately, my wife doesn't share the love for the pipes. But, she's Irish only by name.