Day 5 (afternoon) - Wednesday June 30

We went from the St Louis Zoo to the St. Louis Basilica Cathedral. When I lived here 17 yrs ago, I never made it inside. WOW! What a place! The mosaic and gold glitter is breathtaking. There are so many scenes on the walls and ceilings that my kids asked me if we were in a "Ukrainian Church!" The limited time of 30 minutes we gave this church was severely inadequate, but the best we could get with the kids in tow. Loved it and highly recommend it!

We headed down to the riverfront to see the Gateway Arch Memorial.

With the bright blue skies this really was

monumental for the whole family. I stressed over whether we could/would travel up in the tram to view from the top. Not all the kids were interested and so we

omitted it and there was no fuss from

anyone. We toured the museum below and took part in a short tour to personalize the items and history on the property. No one broke any artifacts...so it was an impressive day.

The walk along the (Mississippi) riverfront was so beautiful

and peaceful. Trees acted as canopies all

along the paved park. Kids chased every squirrel and bird that was within 50 feet! The river was very high and most of the landing area was closed - including the riverboat cruises. A few barges floated down the river and we explained to the kids how it is used as a shipping route.

Everyone was hungry and tired...so we stumbled down the cobblestones of Laclede's Landing to the Old Spaghetti Factory for a satisfying family friendly meal where everyone was stuffed, smiling and happy. A good day had by all.

Tomorrow, we will venture out to the OMI Novitiate where I spent a canonical year 17 years ago doing my novitiate. It is a beautiful property located just outside of Godfrey, IL, 300 feet up above the Mississippi River. I am excited to see the place after all these years and share with my boys about my own discernment experience. Although I did not remain with the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, they forever changed who I was and helped mature immensely. The current staff allowed us to come pay a visit and stay for lunch while the novices are away on a camping trip. We will then connect with Orin Johnson at the Belleville, IL, Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows...another OMI stronghold. I got a feeling...tomorrows' gonna be a good good day!