Kirk blAug

On a crisp morning, I embarked on a solo run to Laumeier Sculpture Park, a sanctuary where art and environment converse in silent splendor. With each visit, I discover new layers of meaning within its vast, open spaces. Today, I revisited familiar sculptures, each resonating with memories and inviting reflection on their deeper meanings. The park's verdant paths led me to Tony Tasset's 'Eye,' an oversized, hyper-realistic eyeball sculpture that commands attention. Its unblinking gaze seems to challenge the observer, a reminder of the omnipresence of nature and the constant observation we're under in today's society. It's as if the 'Eye' encourages a deeper introspection, a call to look within as much as it looks out onto the world. Not far from this arresting vision is Alexander Liberman's 'The Way,' a towering assembly of red cylinders that reach skyward in a complex yet harmonious arrangement. Even as it undergoes renovations, it stands

This morning's journey with Goat, my steadfast four-legged companion, led us to the Lewis and Clark trail system in Weldon Spring, a place that holds a special spot in my heart. On a whim, I decided to break the routine and traverse the Lewis loop in the opposite, clockwise direction. This slight deviation from the norm felt like a refreshing change of perspective, a small rebellion against the expected. As we reached the point where the Lewis and Clark trails diverge, I chose the path less traveled by us lately — the Clark loop. The decision proved serendipitous. Away from my usual favorite bluff on Lewis, I stumbled upon a new bluff accessible from Clark. There, enveloped by the stillness, I paused to meditate. The tranquility was palpable, seeping into my very being and carrying through the rest of my run. The trails were quiet, with the overcast sky and brisk air deterring most from venturing outdoors. For Goat, this meant the freedom of roaming off-leash, a joy mirrored in his

 This morning, Goat (my loyal canine companion) and I ventured out for a hike at Emmenegger Park, a hidden woodland gem nestled intriguingly between a bustling interstate and an industrial zone across the Meramec River. The contrast between nature and urbanity here never ceases to fascinate me. Emmenegger is my go-to spot for hill training when I'm in the mood for a trail run close to home. However, today was different; I chose to hike rather than run. Hiking allows me to slow down and absorb the scenery more intimately. While I firmly believe that there's no better running experience than a trail, engaging with the same paths through hiking, biking, or running each offers a unique perspective. The same trails reveal different secrets, depending on how you traverse them. The park's layout is particularly striking, with bluffs on either side and a central stream that flows depending on the recent rainfall. Goat especially enjoys this feature; it’s his favorite spot to cool o

Today marked my first Thanksgiving without the kids, a milestone that brought its own set of emotions and reflections. Despite this, the day was punctuated with moments of gratitude and connection. Watching Jupiter perform during the halftime show at the annual Kirkwood/Webster Thanksgiving game was a proud and heartwarming moment. I also participated in the Kirkwood/Webster Turkey Day Run, a tradition I've cherished. Running alongside friends, I found comfort and camaraderie, reminders that even in times of change, some things remain a constant source of joy. The day was one of activity and quiet contemplation. I spent hours walking and running, interspersed with moments of rest. My eating habits were different this year, less focused on the feast that typically marks the day. However, this shift felt okay, especially since the boys and I had already celebrated with a Thanksgiving feast last Sunday. It was a joyous occasion, filled with laughter and shared memories. In quieter mom

This morning, as the first light of day touched the streets of our neighborhood, I set out for a walk with no particular plan in mind. My faithful companion, Goat, a dog with an adventurous spirit, was by my side, eagerly sniffing the fresh morning air. The crispness of the morning had a way of clearing the mind, and soon, the thought of a warm beverage began to appeal to me. Nestled a little over a mile away in downtown Kirkwood is a quaint coffee spot known as Teleo. It’s not just the quality of the coffee that draws me there but the convenience it offers, especially for a dog owner like me. As I neared the coffee house, I placed an order online. The walk-up window service at Teleo is a thoughtful touch, allowing me to grab my coffee without leaving Goat outside. Today, as has become my custom when out for coffee, I ordered a red eye. It’s a simple yet powerful concoction of drip coffee with an added shot of espresso. I first came across this option at Protagonist Coffee House in Sou

Epilogue: A New Dawn In the new dawn that broke over Serenadia, the Weaver, with the Royal Children in tow, gazed upon a tapestry that spoke volumes. It was not just a piece of art but a symbol of their journey – a journey of rediscovery, resilience, and hope. The kingdom, once engulfed in the turmoil of deceit, now radiated with the promise of a brighter future. The Weaver and the Royal Children, hand in hand, stepped forward into this new era, ready to embrace the adventures and challenges it would bring. The tapestry of their lives, once unraveled by betrayal, was now being rewoven with threads of love, trust, and strength. In the heart of Serenadia, the Weaver and his children stood as a testament to the enduring power of hope and the unbreakable bond of family. 

Chapter 5: The Resolution As the seasons changed in Serenadia, so did the tides of the Weaver’s journey. Armed with the truth and a renewed sense of purpose, he began to weave a new tapestry, one that symbolized hope, resilience, and a new beginning for him and the Royal Children. The resolution was not a moment but a process, a gradual rebuilding of the life they had known. The Weaver focused on creating a nurturing environment for the Royal Children, one where they could grow and thrive, unburdened by the shadows of the past. He engaged in new rituals and traditions, weaving new memories that were untainted by deceit. The legal battles with the Gardener continued, each encounter a reminder of the path he had chosen. Yet, the Weaver’s spirit remained undaunted. He knew that the journey to healing and rebuilding was not a solitary one. He found strength in the community of Serenadia, in the support of friends and fellow artisans, and most importantly, in the love and resilience of the