Vacation 2008: Days One and Two

We are on vacation!!!!

Friday evening, Cynical and Ragged headed our way in preparation to depart for St. Louis.

Saturday, we went up in the Arch.

Ramblin had never been to the top.  Cross that milestone off the list.  Two things we learned on this excursion - they will let you take knitting needles into the memorial, but don't you dare try to touch Thomas Jefferson.  Then, we were starved and ate at a great little place in Laclede's Landing, Hannegan's Restaurant and Pub.  Wonderful, wonderful food.  Then, completely stuffed, we headed out of town and stopped in at the Route 66 State Park.  The visitor center was closed by the time we got there, but we did walk around a bit.

We spent the evening at Meramac Caverns at their motel.  Beautiful setting, and we were the only ones there at first, though later I think we had another intrepid soul join us. 

This morning, we drove to Rolla to see a recreation of Stonehenge,

and ate waaaaay too much breakfast at the Huddle House.  Rolling ourselves out the door, we were on our way to the ultimate destination - Springfield, MO.  This was the weekend for their Artsfest, which was cool, because it was on the street right in front of our bed and breakfast.  It was also tricky, because you had to know the secret entrance to the parking area, with all the streets blocked off.  Eventually, we found our way, checked in, saw our room, and fell in love.  Diane and Shanni, you may have to come get me.

We then went down to walk along Walnut Street, filled with artisan wares and live music.  It was great.

And now we're back in our room, soaking up the Internets and resting.  Later on we may wander down the street for an appetizing restaurant.

We've needed this for a looooong time.