August 2024 & Connect with Your Community
In my twenties, I had the goal of visiting all of the National Parks, which was 62 total at that time. Then my career, kids and life ( … and maybe a ton of tennis) took over and I lost sight of that passion. As I approached my 50th year, my sister sent me an article titled “St. Louis man visits 419 National Parks in 2019, ending at the Arch” about Andy Magee and I was re-energized. I was in Hawaii on the Big Island at the time and I went to two NPS sites that day ... Pu'ukoholā Heiau, a symbol of unification and lasting peace, and Kaloko-Honokōhau, where “On the Lava Flows the People Discovered a Spirit...” After exploring them, I realized I wanted to learn more about the lands, the indigenous peoples, and find ways to honor them.
Then my plans were put on hold as I was diagnosed with HER2+ and Estrogen/Progesterone+ breast cancer, an aggressive and fast moving cancer that needed immediate action. My doctor told me to clear my calendar for a year. Thankfully, I responded well to the treatments which included 6 rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, and 12 immunotherapy infusions …. all the while the world was also battling the COVID global health crisis.
During this time, I started my blog to help pass the time and also to motivate me to get healthy to achieve my goal. I also sent an email to Andy Magee, from the above linked article, sharing that he is a great inspiration to me, however, I had to put my plans on hold for now to focus on my health. Then every New Years after, I would send him a email sharing my accomplishments of the year. He was always so kind and respondes with thoughtful words of encouragement.
Flash forward to August 2024 and Sam wants to go to Missouri to see the KC Chiefs play in a pre-season game … and I sent Andy an email inquiring if he and his girlfriend are free for dinner. After the big game, Sam and I drove to St. Lous to dine with them … and to visit The Gateway Arch National Park. It was so fun to meet Andy in person, to share our adventure stories and he showed me his book with all of his stamps … so cool! I am so thankful to Andy for his inspiration and it was a treat to connect with him!
And if you are ever in St. Louis, please eat at Small Batch!
“With a rotating menu of creative dishes made with locally-sourced produce, you wouldn’t know from first glance that this Midtown restaurant only offers vegetarian and vegan fare. Located in a building that formerly housed an auto dealership, Small Batch’s dining room is elegantly designed to make it a great spot for date night. Visit the restaurant's website to view the latest menu. “ - from St. Louis Magazine
Try this: Pesto (penne, charred cremini, grilled asparagus, squash, garlic breadcrumbs, lemon zest). 314-380-2040. 3001 Locust.