My wife and I are discussing our options right now. Business is slow, really slow. The truth is that people in times of doubt, in times of uncertainty, don't usually purchase guitars, and honestly, that just makes a lot of sense.
Even though we live in Ecuador at the moment, I've tried to inoculate myself from the Ecuadorian economy. Why? For the simple fact that this tiny country is also going through turmoil, be it of a different nature altogether.
That being said, where we live, Life is quite different from the rest of the country. This is a tiny town, two hundred people at best if you count stray dogs, so as you might imagine we are shielded from appearing on the news, but also from any sort of entrepreneurship venture.
It's fine. As a matter of fact, our isolation is by design, but we are having to brace for impact and realize we need to do something now to supplement or income, or run the risk of becoming a burden to someone.
My sweet mother has suggested we begin performing again. My wife and I used to do shows together and not only had a blast, but also made some coin along the way.
This is the only video I could find of our acoustic shows. My wife can be seen at times inside the gallery painting.
Instead of charging a cover, that people always hate paying for, we would do a raffle. While I sang, told stories, and hosted, if you will, my wife would finish a painting in front of the audience.
If I remember correctly, raffle tickets sold for five bucks, and the prize at the end of the night was the painting.
I may be biased, but my wife's art has always spoken for itself. I don't think I've ever seen someone not feel drawn to it, or at least understand and recognize her god given talent.
The picture I'm sharing here, by the way, was raffled out in a fully packed house event, and it was a controversial event, because the painting went home with an uncle of mine. I had to show over and over how the game could not have been rigged, that my uncle seriously bought 30 tickets, but that did not stop people from feeling FOMO.
If we actually submit ourselves to this life again, even if just for a little bit, it will be quite different. No more late nights, for example, but more importantly, at least for me; No more band.
My wife, a guitar and myself would be "the team"--something we can manage without drama. I value my peace above many things these days.
At any rate; On Monday I intend to go into town, talk to a small venue over there and pitch them the idea.
We'll see how it goes.
MenO
