I know I've written about Brian's penchant to just decide we're going to go on an adventure spur of the moment before. He had Monday off from work because of Veteran's Day, but the littles had school. After he brought them home from school, he announced we would have an afternoon adventure. I thought about all the stitching I needed to be doing, all the laundry, all the cleaning. And I almost sat the adventure out. But I knew I'd regret it. And I would have!
We all packed into the car and headed to St. Louis to go visit the arch. Brian and I had been before, years ago when we were passing through the area. But we had never taken the littles, despite them always being so excited to see it whenever we're near the city. We had never told them that you could go up to the top of the arch, but once we clued them in, they were all for it! Fletcher especially was excited, racing forward along the path to the arch, and circling back to us. Rowan strolled along, eating a snack, and not understanding the urgency.
She was pretty impressed once we were right under it. If you've never been to the arch, there is a museum in the underground area that is worth a visit. And if you've never ridden to the top, let me tell you it's not for anyone with claustrophobia. You ride to the top in a circular, barrel-like elevator that takes 4 minutes to get to the top. There are seats in it, and it's not tall enough to stand in. The littles thought it was awesome. Like a rocket ship, they decided.
But the views from the top are worth the ride! As long as you aren't afraid of heights. Fletcher could have stayed up there all day, looking at the cars going back and forth, pointing out different buildings and structures, and watching barges glide on the river. But Rowan only wanted so much before she was done. And when that girl is done, she is DONE.
Papa's adventures always work out and seem magical. I love that he has this spontaneous nature that I just don't possess. Because these memories? They are my favorite kind.
awe how cool!
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I had to scroll through your pictures really fast and even then I got a little nauseous. We did the Arch when I was a kid and I swear I can still feel it sway back and forth a little (as it does when you're at the top). But it seems like a perfect trip for those adventurous Coverts!
ReplyDeleteThose are some incredible views! I think St. Louis is one of the most underrated cities--and so beautiful. Thanks for taking us on that tour. Your family couldn't be any cuter. And I'm so glad that you all went on that adventure together!
ReplyDeleteI think it's lovely that Brian comes up with ideas for adventures. And those photos are incredible. I especially love that first one! :)
ReplyDeleteIt looks like great times - except for going to the top. Would. Never. Happen. If. I. Was. Around. Hate heights! :-P
ReplyDeleteLOVE these pictures, Ruthie. And what a fun day trip!! I'm glad you didn't skip. Because then who would take such lovely photos?
ReplyDeleteOh wow, what a memory!! And kudos to you all for getting to the top. I would have run at the site of the elevator-- I'm all for cozy but, uh, nope, not that cozy!
ReplyDeleteGreat picture of the trees down by the Cathedral! Perfect time of year to go. Thanks for going - I enjoyed the pictures! Can't wait to take Alex!
ReplyDeleteLove the pictures ! We visited the arch years ago on a cross country road trip. I was determined to see it and then totally freaked out by that rickety ride to the top. It's a beautiful piece of architecture/ sculpture!
ReplyDeleteGreat shots! You know, we live 15 minutes from the Arch and have never taken our boys up in it. I think it's high time!
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