sidetracked

So today was a very long day at the ol' bucks. The days seem to be getting longer and longer but I guess that is what happens when there is a possible end in site. As if long work days aren't taxing enough- I have promised a painting to a fundraiser that I very much believe in, problem is I haven't really been inspired to paint in a couple of months (in fact my painting supplies are packed away.) I have been playing music and that is were my creative energy is going lately.

With that said, the one thing I was looking forward to today was going down to the local brewery and trying their new "Chinookie IPA" (which is phenomenal by the way.) My plan was to run to the brewery after work and grab a growler and go home to paint this dreaded-yet-desired painting for a dear friend.

I get a call at 5 saying that someone called into work, my plans of leaving early are now shot but I am still determined to make it to the brewery by 7p. I clock out and get to my car only to realize I made obligations to take something to another store, no problem, its kind of on the way. By the time I get there its 6:35. Im starting to think that maybe I should just stay home and not go to the brewery because I wont have time. I drop off the stuff and I race home. It now like 6:42. I still have to make it there and find parking and get my stuff filled, I was debating more and more not to go but I decided "if my one and only plan for friday falls through, im going to be upset. im going. AND I AM GETTING MY IPA." I get there at 6:59, right in the nick of time. As shallow as this is I prayed on the way there that this beer be great and help inspire me to paint... womp. Sorry, Pop. (remember this part)

While there I am flying solo dolo, much expected at this point, whatever. I try the beer and its great, also expected.

Here is what is not expected, out of the corner of my eye I see a somewhat familiar face, one that I was supposed to meet at least a year ago but never happened, former Invisible Children roadie- Carli. A friend of many friends, and I must say IC is very family-like. It was ridiculous that we lived in the same city and have never met. We strike up conversation about how crazy it is that we randomly met here and she introduces me to her friends that she came to the brewery with, we all decide its time to eat and we go to an awesome pizza place downtown. The night was full of great stories, great food, great beer and just an overwhelming sense of community.

Invisible Children was the best experience of my life and I am inspired by the support and love I received while on the road and sense of community between us even as strangers.

Grant I lost a solid 4 hours of painting time but God did give me inspiration to paint, even over my lame request of beer. I will paint a painting full of my inspiration of community and love.

Ask and you shall receive, my friend. Just be aware He answers your request in His way and you have to be open to see it.