NGD -2018 Olson BRW SJ
 

Hi everyone,
I thought I’d share some photos of my long-awaited SJ, built this year by James Olson.
I *believe I may hold the title for the longest time (# of years) -between the day a guitar by Jim became my “someday” wish ...and my dream guitar finally coming to fruition: 36 years. (*If I’m wrong about this, feel free to correct me.)

The basis for my presumption: I had a babysitting job with the Olson’s when I was 14 yrs. old, wayyyy back in 1982; This was when I first had the opportunity to play one of Jim’s guitars. The tone and beauty of that instrument was unforgettable.

I visited the idea of ordering a guitar from Jim -several times- over the following years, but couldn’t justify doing so....especially given my relatively low playing ability, and the fact that playing the guitar is a mere hobby for me. (I’m not a professional artist/performer; I couldn’t get away with playing one on TV, either.)

Well, this year, my husband decided -and insisted, when I balked- that my 50th birthday gift would be a guitar built by Jim...AND instructed that I include/add any specifications or details I wanted. (When I mentioned this to Jim, he said: “Wow...He must really like you!” Lol!)

I’ve always had a difficult time when it comes to making decisions -and this was no exception.
I spent many (I’m ashamed to admit how many) months agonizing over the fretboard design & other details... Building a guitar can become quite a rabbit-hole, if you allow it to! But I eventually crawled my way out, and am absolutely thrilled with the end result.
The inlay design I finally decided on was executed to perfection by Larry Robinson. I have no doubt that I tried his patience with all of my questions & pickiness throughout the process.

Anyway, without further ado (my apologies for such a long ado).... Here are a few photos of my “dream” guitar.
She sounds even better than she looks.

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That is an incredible instrument and a wonderful story! Congratulations!!

Congrats on virtually a life long dream come true. I grew up about 15 miles from where Jim lives so we must have been neighbors if you babysat for him...the fretboard is stunning.

Thanks, Mike😊.

Thank you, Tom😊.
Yes- I live in TN now, but grew up on the West Side of St. Paul (which is where Jim & Sue lived at the time). Do you mean you’re near there, or Circle Pines (where he lives currently)?

Your SJ looks fantastic!

Quite possibly the prettiest inlays I've seen on one of Jim's guitars. Absolutely wonderful.

Congrats!

That is absolutely gorgeous.

The inlay is brilliant, and matches the instrument perfectly. And the BRW is gorgeous. I have a feeling I have a very good idea how it sounds!

I just about fainted.... Congrats...!!!

That’s a staggeringly beautiful guitar!

That is a beautiful guitar and a wonderful story. The inlay is so sweet, and that abalone ring around the soundhole is outrageous!! You are definitely one lucky ex-babysitter!

Let's hear it for all those spouses/partners who support us guitar junkies!

What an amazing guitar, and quite a story to match!
Jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Enjoy it,
Tom

I guessed, wrongly, Jimi Wingert had done the inlay as that seems her style. Larry has certainly done a monumental job... the wings on that insect are perfect. You've clearly caught everyone involved at the peak of their powers... super.

A beautiful instrument and even more beautiful story. Thanks for sharing both with us.

He was right about your husband! Good lord, what an amazing instrument. The inlay would be a little busy for me, but it's AMAZING work and I can't imagine a nicer execution of what you wanted.

Congratulations! Play it well for many many many years to come!

Great story, great husband, beautiful instrument.