Lost Abbey, lost Sunday.

It all began when I ran into Todd at the Public House on Friday, and he said there were beers purchased during his recent road trip that needed tasting.

Fast forward to Sunday, and a gorgeous spring afternoon on the patio at Bank Street Brewhouse. Todd pulled up and began off-loading samples, and those fortunate enough to be seated at the picnic table became part of the group, which became bigger and smaller through the course of the selection pictured above, including at least seven Lost Abbey ales and cans from Oskar Blues.

Hours passed, there was beer, food and conversation, and the afternoon melted away. There were enough people that no one had too much. A couple of us were on bicycles. There's much magic in times like these, and they're something to be cherished. You can plan and manage as much as you desire, but when serendipity takes over ... listen to your inner Sidney Freedman (psychiatrist on television's M*A*S*H): "Ladies and gentlemen, take my advice. Pull down your pants, and slide on the ice."

(Photo credit: Ted)