At last! Internet service! I hate that I had to resort to sitting in a Starbucks at the Renaissance Grand in St. Louis, but they've got free WiFi. And I was going through withdrawals from not having access for 3 days. You won't find any of the usual "luxuries" staying here-even at the finer hotels. No free wifi, no phone book, lil sewing kit, filtered water, coffee maker, bathrobes...not even one of those super sexy shower caps. The obligatory bible, of course, is there on the night table. For a family leading a simple life, you kind of look forward to going out of town and enjoying these little luxuries. I know, there are starving children and I shouldn't bitch. Adjusting attitude in 3...2...1...
It's a sign of the economic times and perhaps it's noticeable effects here in St. Louis. In a city filled with fabulous history and old buildings, almost every ground floor space you pass is for sale/lease/rent. All this grand and eclectic space cold and empty. Ghostown-ish. Peering into the windows as we pass by,
this artist's mind reels envisioning all the potential restaurants, art galleries, quaint book stores, shops, music venues and the like that could fill this small city. It's really is sad. Sign-o-the-times, indeed.
St. Lewie's economy should be getting a bump this week, though! It'll be bustling chaos in the city tonight. Between the hoards of people attending the convention my husband is here for(news of this actually hit FAUX NEWS-St. Louis is stoked to be hosting these 4000+ people), the Cards playing the Philies, and our President popping in to this very hotel tonight for a fundraiser. I'll keep my camera handy!
BTW...The Gateway Arch really is pretty fekkin' COOL!