Raptor Centers Aren't Boring. FTSF

One time when I was bored out of my mind, I... found a raptor center that rehabilitates and releases birds! 

Several years ago, I drove someone to a job interview that was a few hours from where we live. I was left to sit in the car for at least an hour during his interview... boring. I decided that I'd drive around and see what was nearby {hoping I didn't get lost--no smartphone, then}.

I drove past a school, then a sign that said "Raptor Center" and I knew I had to go there! I pulled into the parking lot--it's basically empty--and got out and started wandering around. 

Oh, man... there was SO much more than what meets the eye from the parking lot! This place was cool! There was a store, tons of birds/animals, pathways and even an education/learning area. 


There was a girl painting a mural inside the education area and she started talking to me. I told her that I took a lot of art {painting} classes in college and I have always wanted to paint a mural. She says, "That's awesome, because I need some help! Why don't you come up here on Saturdays and help me paint the scenes?" 

ahhhh! Is this really happening?! I love museums! I love animals! I love painting! Am I about to paint a mural of animals inside this Raptor Center?! Someone pinch me!

I knew I had to pick my friend up and come back--hoping I'd find the way back here. 
*fingers crossed*

Image credit: http://news-prod.wcu.edu

I left to pick up my friend. He told me about his interview, then I told him that I found a Raptor Center! {"you didn't wait in the parking lot?" ...lol. :)}

We found the way back {missed the turn and turned around} and had a really great day, there. It's an amazing place that does amazing things. I bought a stuffed monkey from the gift shop for my RooRoo {puppy} and I took pictures, {but I can't find them right this minute}.

What was just a really long drive for nothing that awesome, turned out to be a great trip, a fun memory and a new discovery. I'm happy that it worked out that way :)

ps: I didn't get to paint the mural, because the commute was just too long. Still awesome :)

What is one of your biggest dreams? :)

Ever got lost and ended up somewhere fun?