Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. I love it when the curtains are all open. It gives me a sense of freedom. Especially, on those days when I can’t really leave the house and enjoy the great outdoors. Looking out the window allows me to enjoy the trees, the leaves blowing in the wind, the snow shimmering on the ground as it’s embraced by the sun, and the idea of being in the great outdoors keeps me warm and happy. I can only imagine what it smells like outside. Crisp rocky mountain air. There’s nothing in the world like it. At least not to me.
I have been working on a painting of a butterfly. At first, it was inspired by a Blue Morpho Butterfly, but as I continued painting, it turned into something slightly different. It is still a butterfly; however, it now holds a scene within its wings. After a few moments of scrutinizing my own painting, I realized that I had painted a memory of one of my outings in Colorado.
I was in Golden at Mountain Toad Brewing one afternoon, enjoying the company of some Golden locals and the sweet colorful taste of Colorado craft beer. They have over 10 flavors to choose from which can make it a bit difficult to just have one. Typically, I limit myself to two beers and I take my time. It also gives me a reason to go back. The brewery is conveniently located on the corner of Washington Avenue and 9th Street, before heading into downtown.
The walls are covered with local art and just about every day, they offer snack and meal options via food trucks. Your choices can range from burgers and fries to tacos, crepes, gyros and sometimes barbeque. Local word has it that every once in a while, you can find all sorts of entertainment at the brewery. Live art painting and cheese night. You’re going to have to go to find out more.
After a couple of hours, a few random conversations and two beers at Mountain Toad, I walked about a mile to have dinner. After dinner, I found myself – as I often do - taking the scenic route back home. The view from up above was incredible. I sat for a while on the hood of my truck taking it all in; the picturesque scene in front of me, my afternoon and the strangers I conversed with. The memories of my day witnessed twilight come to life.
Colorado has so much to offer. I can’t imagine living here and not being inspired. Any time I feel lost, sad or confused, I can always count on my Colorado photos, paintings and experiences to boost my spirits back up. My scenic butterfly is now complete and lives above my computer. Every time I look at it, I’m reminded of one unforgettable day at a brewery called Mountain Toad and of the roads I journeyed on to find my way back home.
Mountain Toad Brewing, http://mountaintoadbrewing.com/. 900 Washington Avenue, Golden, CO, 720-638-3244.
(Originally published in the January 9, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)
