Growing up, all three of my siblings and I played the violin.  We all started around the time we turned 3-years-old and, eventually we were able to play together. We started by playing at the church where my dad was the music director and eventually realized that we could get paid a little bit for playing, especially around the holidays. So, we became The Bokor Strings and were even chronicled in the newspaper many years ago. (Click here for the article.) We played at Harbor Island in the center of the old shopping area that was there in the late 80s and 90s. We played at the Victorian Christmas Stroll at University of Tampa, and a few other assorted places as well. We never were signed by a label, but we had fun and got to use the money we earned to help buy a synthesizer and a trampoline to play with in the off season.

And this weekend, we’ve got a treat for you as part of Return to Wonder. I wish I could say that the original Bokor Strings was getting back together, but my siblings were not quite ready for a reunion tour. Fortunately, the new Bokor Strings consisting of Abby and Maddy are willing to put on a little Christmas Concert, and we’ve renamed ourselves The Kerby’s Quartet, because one of our staff members happens to be a cellist! This Saturday at 10:30am, the four of us will be playing Christmas carols. We hope you’ll come and sing along. We’ll even have some fun little instruments that you can borrow to join in on the merry making!

And just before we go onstage, I’m going to be reading ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas for any kids (or adults) that want to come out for a classic Christmas Story. It’s one of my favorites and I’m pretty sure I’ve read it every Christmas Eve to my girls. So, wear your favorite Christmas pajamas, find a seat on the boardwalk and get into the Christmas spirit with us as we continue to Return to Wonder at Kerby’s.

p.s. We’ve also got great last-minute gifts for those hard-to-shop-for gardeners. Beautiful flowers, garden statues, wind chimes, or a gift card so they can get just what they want next spring.