Friday marked the ten-year anniversary of my kids and I calling St. Louis home. And I cannot think of a more perfect way to celebrate than taking in the best of this city with my lifelong best friend and her wonderful family, who made the trek from Kansas City for this visit.

What a blast.

Friday started with a trip to the top of the Arch…after a few photos at the bottom.

My second family. I love them.

Hello, St. Louis. I love you, too.

After we took in the view from 630 feet, we put our feet back on the ground and walked to the west to find the City Garden.

This is Alex’s little buddy, Red. When in St. Louis, it’s all Cardinals, all the time. Even if you’re from Kansas City.

As it should be.

And Alex clearly looks like a natural Cardinals fan.

Here’s adorable Kaitlyn demonstrating her climbing skills.

(As if she needs the extra height. She’s already taller than me.)

Even Kelli and I got into the posing action.

This photo was more difficult for a couple of 40+ year olds than one would think. I’m quite proud of this.

Next we headed to Ballpark Village for lunch…where I took a rare “selfie” with my buddies.

Those who know me well have probably noticed that there are more photos of me in this blog post than in the entirety of my blog archive.

Next stop: the City Museum. Otherwise known (to me) as the coolest place on earth.

There are no words to describe the awesomeness that is a trip to the City Museum.

The kids climbed, slid, hid, crawled, ran, and had a fantastic time at this place where imagination knows no limits.

Of course a trip to St. Louis doesn’t count unless you take in a game at Busch Stadium. The boys met up with us and we all got to see a Cardinals winner. (Photo stolen shamelessly from Kelli.)

Me and my guys. What a ride these ten years have been.

Day Two!!

Saturday started with a trip to the Zoo. I’d forgotten how many animal babies we have here. So cute.

Alex made a new friend.

Pretty sure that Red Panda was a favorite for everyone during this visit. Look at that little guy. I wanted to hug him.

Next stop: Grant’s Farm. This place is truly a gem…and admission is totally free.

One of my favorite incidents happened at the Grant’s Farm merry-go-round. Once the kids were on board, the elderly ticket taker told Kelli and Shawn that he’d been working since 9:00 a.m. and their kids were the first to say “thank you” all day.

It was after 4:00 p.m.

I couldn’t have been prouder if these were my own kids. Funny, adorable, kind, and perfect manners. Without question, these kids are being brought up right. It was a joy to get to spend so much time with them. And obviously with their mom and dad, too. I sure wish we could do this more often.

But I could not be more grateful for this perfect weekend.

Love you so, so much, Kelli, Shawn, Kaitlyn and Alex!!!!