We wanted “walk-ability.” Crucial. Of all the cities Andrew and I have chosen to live- Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, and now St. Louis, a neighborhood could be everything wonderful and perfect but if it was not walkable, it was not for us. So imagine our joy in finding this place. Walkable, walkable, walkable. A comfortable walk to coffee shops, bars and restaurants and music venues, reasonably-priced boutiques, a local root-beer factory, the public library, COCA (a performing arts center with classes for the little ones… and big ones), playgrounds, preschool (four or five blocks away, I smile inwardly as I walk by the loooooong line of cars waiting to pick up their children, swoop in, buckle Milo into his stroller seat, and glide effortlessly back past the line toward home), an excellent public elementary school (ONE block away!!!!), playgrounds, parks, and a general store that looks like it has been transported from back in time (though a little pricey, the lemon ginger scones are to die for). A little further hike is Forest Park, with endless activities for all, including a free zoo with train rides and great children’s zoo.
Really, really big hill
But perhaps one of the most important features of this walkable town… Washington University. Andrew can walk out the front door and be to his office in a mere 10 minutes without ever setting foot in a car, train, or bus. A new birthday bicycle makes this even easier. So much easier, it seems, that a certain Honda motorcycle will be up for sale next spring. It is no longer really necessary. Insert sigh of relief here.
And, admittedly, a not-so-short walk to the annual hot-air balloon festival yesterday:
What balloon festival is complete without poultry?
Cooling off before the long walk home
Really. 90-degree weather? Come on, fall.
It was a really, REALLY long walk. Around 8 miles.
And I feel fine.
St. Louis is awesome! You guys just ‘fit’ there. It’s such a progressive and really beautiful city, and your neighborhood is to die for. Just be advised, if you are planning any 8 mile walks the next time I visit, I’m getting an adult stroller and you can push ME! Great pictures.
St. Louis looks fab!!! Can’t wait to visit! I am totally jealous of the “walkability” factor, although I hide every time my one neighbor is out so I’m not sure I’m cut-out for neighborhood life. Guess I’ll just have to continue walking around the woods 😉
I sooooo look forward to your blog posts. Glad you guys seem to be settling into a fantastic little life. . .looks just perfect for you!
Mary- your woods are incredible! If I had that in my back yard, I’d be thrilled. We can’t wait to see you guys!
8 miles in those boots? Seriously? Could you try to tone down your awesomeness a little. And not be so cute? Thanks.
I love the bumble bee boots, and I am with Annie… those must be some seriously comfortable boots to have walked 8 miles in them.
When I was house hunting in TX, I was glad to see that all the neighborhoods we were looking in had sidewalks, but then I realized the sidewalks aren’t usable because everyone puts big brick mailboxes on them and you can’t maneuver with a stroller or a bike. Bummer.
I love love love how you guys can walk everywhere! It looks so pretty around you and I love how you have so many fun spots nearby (a root beer factory?! a source for lemon ginger scones!!) I really give you credit for walking all that way, especially in that super cute outfit. Love that shot of Milo with his tongue sticking out.. they’re all great shots as usual.
I think I see another new post below this one… exciting!
p.s. I gave you an idea for trickery on the post you commented on… good luck!
ahhh I meant the shot of Oliver, but I’m sure you realized 🙂
Imagine my pleasant surprise when I clicked on your blog and there were three posts (i’ve been out of town). You look perfectly cute walking up that big hill! What great exercise and the perfect way to explore the city. Second, the boy’s rooms and glimpses of the rest of the house are soo cute. You and Andrew have done a great job setting up the house. I love the color in Milo’s room! Can’t wait to see more….hope you guys are feeling better!
I agree, walk-ability is key. I love the pictures, as always! Especially the one of Washington University and the hot air balloons. x