Pickin’ and Grinnin’
My dad and a few friends often gathered in our kitchen on Friday or Saturday nights for pickin’ and grinnin’. Instruments included guitars, banjo, fiddle, and an occasional mandolin. They made music with laughter as well as instruments.
Pickin’ and grinnin’ refers to playing musical instruments while having a good time.
Instruments usually have strings such as guitar or banjo. Musicians may not play the best, but they play with enthusiasm. Favorite songs fill the air.
The 1969-1997 television show, Hee Haw, made pickin’ and grinnin’ a more common expression.
Hosts Buck Owens and Roy Clark frequently said it. All the performers looked and sounded happy as a lark.
The dulcimer makes me grin.
Jean Ritchie is one of the best-known dulcimer musicians. She has traveled the world playing and singing Appalachian music.
My dad and I shared an appreciation for the dulcimer. We made the one in the photo above. (Actually, he did the work while I did whatever he told me to do.) He made and gifted several others.
Music makes our world a better place. Enjoy and share!
“Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19 NIV).
Do you have an expression you want explained or a thought about this one? If so, please comment below.
Subscribe to receive my weekly posts by email and receive a free copy of “Words of Hope for Days that Hurt.”
If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends.