Oh the Places to See :: Five Things Friday

Happy Friday! I do hope that all of you had a wonderful week. My parents flew in for a long Labor Day weekend and what a fabulous visit it was. We stayed pretty busy and explored a few places I had never been… I love experiencing new places and things. Anywho, below are {five} places we dropped by during their visit. But first… meet the folks {smile}. I love and appreciate them so much. It makes my heart ache that we don’t live closer.

And now, let’s explore…

1) Penzeys Spices store in the quaint little Maplewood area. I go here often, because this store is spice heaven. If you enjoy cooking and experimenting with flavors, it’s worth a trip or two — or even three. They have a fabulous catalog for catalog orders as well and you’ll get some great coupons too.

2) Vom Fass, which happened to be right next door to Penzeys. Vom Fass translated means “from the cask.” They have a very cool set up, where you can sample a large variety of products from oil/vinegars to wines, etc. You also can pick your own bottle and the amount you want to purchase…. something different. This was a first time experience and I have a feeling I’ll be returning. Loved it!!!

3) Mama Toscano Ravioli down on The Hill here in St. Louis. My Mom and Dad saw this featured on The Food Networks show, “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” So, we made a trip down there to purchase a few boxes of the infamous fried ravioli for tasting. Yumm-o!! I love these places that are off the beaten path, nothing fancy — yet offer a tasteful surprise.

4) Ted Drewes. When I worked down in the Forest Park area, my co-workers and I had Ted Drewes every so often. I enjoyed the Strawberry Concretes, we bought them in pre-packaged cups and handed them out to the students for special events. My husband and parents wanted to try it and compare it to our favorite custard place in Springfield, MO — Andy’s Frozen Custard. Surprisingly enough, it was comparable {yay!} I was tickled silly to see that they had the Pumpkin Pie Concrete too. Oh dear Lord are they good! If you’ve never had one and a yogurt, custard or ice cream shop near you serves them — BEWARE. They are sinful {wink}.

5) Saint Louis Zoo. We went the morning of Labor Day. It was packed with people!! It was a beautiful crisp day, so it was a perfect zoo kinda day. I love going to the zoo and seeing the awesomeness that God created. I think one of my favorite stops every time is the Penguins. If you’ve ever watched documentary The March of the Penguins, you’d know why. They’re so stinkin’ cute too!! The Saint Louis Zoo is very nice — and did I mention it’s FREE?