It’s About Time

Today we sent WeiChee and family off to the field of Irian (West Papua). It is a joyful/sad occasion. Sad because our friends are leaving us for the Lord’s work; joyful because they are obeying God’s leading for their lives and we as a church were part of that journey; that process. We were obedient in sending them off to the Lord’s field.

Many of us arrived at the Budget Terminal about 2hrs prior to departure time. It was a casual and light occasion at that time. Kids ran around oblivious to the heavyheartedness of adults. Still it was fun watching them expend energy in the departure hall. Adults meanwhile, ‘loiter’ around in small groups having chit-chats. Some regular visitors turned up: MeiLeng, Angelia, as well as Jeff and Patricia. Stephanie came too.

When 16:00 hrs came, I asked Daniel to gather the folks for group picture. It was quite a breeze since the folks knew what they were supposed to do. Then came the difficult moment – to pray for the missionary family on behalf of the church. Difficult only because one can sense the sadness around.

Tears flowed as I prayed for the Lam family prior to their moving off to Departure gate. It was understandable. Inevitable I might add. The people of NTBC love them dearly. That is wonderful. I do wonder if it’s our turn, will they likewise?

As a side note, I was pleasantly surprised to see TzeCheh (aka Tracy) and Jasmine. Both are married with kids in tow. Both whom I have not seen since 1993 when we left SBBC. Frankly I missed them much though not expressed. I missed their ever positive outlook. The life of the party so to speak, in a positive manner. I missed their fervor. Sadly they are not attending church since the fiasco in ’93. only thing to do is to pray that the Lord will prompt their hearts to yearn for worship and communion with God and His saints.

Avalon S200

This is the Avalon S200 Gold Series guitar, a Grand Concert sized guitar, made in N Ireland by the same group which built Lowden guitars before their split up.  Wikipedia has a writeup on the Avalon company. Their website lists mainly current series at Avalon guitars. This S200 Gold series has been discontinued but still available through direct order with them.

Since I’ve not played an Irish-made guitar (owns a Hofner – German), so it’s a risk I’m taking to buy one actually.  But this used piece has a price that was too good to miss, so to speak.  Anyway, it was made in 2003.

It arrived this morning after 2 weeks on the road and in the air. I was a bit surprised that it looked small – almost similar to a classical guitar size. In my mind I was imagining the lower bout to be wider.  The Hiscox hard case that came with it was light weight compared to regular ones. Maybe that’s the difference between UK and US design HSC?  Somehow, the latches on the HSC reminds me of the latches that used to be found on school bags back when I was in primary school. 

Avalon Headstock

The strings were worn, so I restrung it with D’Addario EXP 11 (80/20 PB). I noticed that the action was low; the saddle likewise. Nut and saddle are Tusq; not bone material. Anyway, that’s factory default material. The guitar itself is in pristine condition; clear pickguard.

To tell the truth, I was quite disappointed at first – the smaller body.  Anyway, I didn’t want to let my initial “shock” prejudiced my assessment objectively.  After the new strings were installed, boy!

The volume was loud (No kidding) for a small body. My Taylor GSMC even paled in comparison!  I guess those S200 owners weren’t kidding about it.  It has a different sounding altogether.  It will hold up well if I were to sing solo and the finger-picking will come through though without pickups.  Because it now has 80/20 PB strings, perhaps that explains the tad brightness of tone. So perhaps with just PB strings, it brings the bass tones down to a mellower level. We’ll see.

Here’s what the Avalon website says about this body shape:

Concert: S Series

“The Avalon Concert models contradict their compact proportions by producing a rich and sumptuous tone. Their personality is quite distinctive: a cleanly focussed midrange complimented by sparkling trebles and strong bass response. This guitar’s inviting dimensions produce an imposing tone suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Powerful trebles are beautifully balanced by a compact warm bass register. The overall sound and projection are truly amazing for such a small guitar.”

Dimensions:

Lower bout – 370mm [14.57"]
Upper bout – 272mm [10.71"]
Waist – 233mm [9.173"]
Soundbox – 505mm
Length – 1010mm
Nut width – 44mm
Width 12th Fret – 56mm
Lacquer Finish: Acid Catalysed Nitro-Cellulose