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September 25, 2012  Day 137   Kimmswick, MO Total miles to date:  2873.9

Kimmswick!

And these are just the
shops on one street!

Our day began as planned. We were in no hurry to leave for Kaskaskia because it was just a four hour trip. So, we walked the half mile into Kimmswick.  It is a lovely little town with several gift shops and the famous Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery.  But first we stopped at the quaint post office, only open from 9-12!  We needed to mail back a small package of tools our engine mechanic left behind in Peoria, so we were glad to find it open.  After walking past the shops (past, not in) we stopped for breakfast at the Blue Owl.  Then we stopped at their bakery counter to check out their pies for which they are so well known.  We came back to the boat with two half pies, peach and blackberry. We could not handle their apple pie which contains 18 apples and is higher than our refrigerator shelf!  We stopped to take pictures of the former country home estate (and now a museum) of Frederick and Mabel-Ruth Anheuser. He was the grandson of the Eberhard Anheuser, one of the founders of Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Outside the home is a well kept riding arena that is used by a non-profit organization. One of the horses walked over to the fence to see us!

The Blue Owl

As we were walking back to the boat, we were aware of the weather forecast for storms later in the day, and since Laura and Ross from The Zone were headed to Hoppies, we decided to stay another day.  One other boat stayed as well.  So, at 4pm we gathered with Fern again as she gave us the information we need as we head down the rivers.  We did not mind hearing it twice.


Pies, Pies, Pies!

One of the many lovely shops

We had dinner on board and then the storm hit, complete with heavy rain and wind and light hail. The storm eventually stopped and then came back again even stronger.

Anheuser Estate

Rain or shine, we will depart at 9:00 in the morning with The Zone for the Kaskaskia Lock.