A friend of mine had a conference he was attending in Des Moines, and feeling the need to get away from everything here in St. Louis – if even for a few days – I tagged along.
First off, the city and everyone I encountered were just wonderful! There was a free shuttle that circled the downtown area that I jumped on first thing in the morning. But as the day progressed the weather was so incredible, I just decided to hoof it for most of my journey. I walked and walked and walked (alot!) and saw the capital, the East Village, the Botanical Garden which was very small compared to St. Louis’ AMAZING Botanical Garden, but lovely none-the-less, and that evening walked to a bar called the El Bait Shop for dinner.
What struck me about this small city was all the flowers and gardens and art – everywhere downtown! All the bikers and walkers – and large sidewalks. I think I could pick up and move there tomorrow.
There was a walking path along the Des Moines River and lots of incredible little gardens scattered along the path. I finally found a quiet coffee house in the East Village and did some thinking and writing. Then I wondered the shops. I did not bring my computer with me on this trip, nor did I bring shopping money – that wasn’t was this journey was about. This was thinking and breathing time. Enjoying the moments of time as they came.
As I journeyed through the town, I happened into a very small shop called Green Goods For The Home and had a wonderful conversation with Sharon the owner. A true soul-sister. She showed me some wonderful holiday note cards and gift tag cards which can be planted. There are seeds in the card and they will grow into flowers; she showed me products and told me about the people who made them – local people in many cases. I love the idea of the fire-starters.
About three-quarters through the first day I went back to the hotel to see if my friend (another art lover) had a break and wanted to go visit the new sculpture garden in town – and he did. We hopped the shuttle down the park and wandered around the sculptures. As I said, this town loves its art (individual sculptures on almost every other street corner.) I was in heaven.
I am back and refreshed and grateful for so many things. Sometimes I just need to get away from the distractions of life so I can listen to myself think – if even for just a few days.
