Notions

Which one of those things just doesn’t belong here? What an amazing trip to the Lincoln Presidential Library . . . and on a day when the SCOTUS made a landmark ruling on equality. The video presentation was so technically brilliant. I couldn’t figure out how they accomplished it. Got to see Lincoln’s stovepipe hat, too. Made me think of President Obama’s library . . . bet they will have the first presidential Blackberry. Jokes aside, a very stirring visit.

In Chicago, we went to Tommy Gun’s Garage. It was dinner and a show in the style of a 1920’s speakeasy. The food was great and so was the entertainment. The actors served us a great meal. Then, they sang, danced, and had great fun at the expense of the audience members! Rhonda and I had a great time.

Finally, we heard from Christopher. He called us as we were getting near our hotel in Chicago. We spent a bit of time hearing about his adventure at boot camp. Like before, he sounded great. He’s looking forward to spending some time with us on Friday following graduation. He asked for pizza and a movie. The day is his . . . he’s earned it.

Tomorrow: Zach flies in and we head back to downtown for a fun time.

It’s been a full day of walking around seeing the sights of St. Louis. We were outside all day, either walking the grounds of the arch or taking a ride up and down the Mississippi. We spent the day around the arch, riding to the top of the arch, too. Temps were close to 100 degrees. Finally, we ended up in the St. Charles area, eating (and imbibing) at Trailhead Brewing Company and going to see Monsters, Inc. Fun and exhausting day. Tomorrow: Springfield, IL and Chicago.

Because Rendevous BBQ in Memphis was going to be closed, we decided to forgo Memphis. Rhonda’s parents used to live there and we’ve done Elvis, The Peabody, and most everything else.

Therefore, we headed straight up to St. Louis, MO. And, it’s hot — Houston hot. But, we got to the hotel and relaxed. We decided to find a local restaurant. We found HOME, a local eatery here that was judges best in STL in 2012. The owner/chef was trained in Houston at the Art Institute of Houston. (exciting for us since we live in H-Town) After leaving a phone message for a reservation, Josh, the owner and general manager called me back. Unfortunately, they were booked for today. But, they opened a new restaurant in a hip, cool part if town. He offered to set us up there for dinner.

Table was AMAZING. Such great fare . . . served in small portions so you order and try several things on their menu. Rhonda had the best — Chicken Pouillard. I had the Cassoulet and it was very flavorful. Loved it. Get the Gruyere Cheese puffs — the best cheese/stick- thing you will ever eat for an appetizer. Very helpful waitstaff. Jill helped us get the perfect wine & beer for our meal. If you are ever in STL, go. Great place. Visit their FB page here.

Tonight = rest. Tomorrow segue tour downtown and the arch.

So, here’s how the beginning of vacation starts: while chewing on a Skittle, a crown on my tooth came off. Yep, a Skittle. This caused an impromptu visit with my best friend dentist — Dr. Brian Barry — who took care of my dental problem. I’ll reciprocate . . . should you ever have an anthem emergency, Dr. Barry.