Even though I didn’t win a Carol Award, I had an awesome time in St. Louis. The trip went smoothly (except for getting lost in a not-so-great neighborhood). After arriving on Wednesday afternoon, I went to dinner with my fabulous critique partner and my equally fabulous agent.

We went to dinner at Fitz’s root beer (sorry for being disloyal to you, Sprecher. You’re still the best in my book!). It was yummy and they had the best gluten free buns I’ve had. Ever. I’d be a regular if they weren’t 6 1/2 hours away!

We then took a little stroll down the street. This is a hip area of STL (I’m hip!) known as the Delmar Loop.

 
There’s a statue of Chuck Berry. How fun.

Across the street is the Blueberry Hill restaurant with a bunch of Chuck Berry memorabilia. We didn’t go in there, but it looks like fun.

Along the way, they have stars on the street, just like in Hollywood, but for famous people from St. Louis and Missouri. I didn’t realize these people came from there.

All in all, a great evening. Thank you Diana, Ed, and Tamela!

The city is celebrating its 250th birthday, so there are all these cakes around town.

On Thursday, my roomie and I took a walk down by the Arch and the Mississippi.

Oh, and here are three Carol Award finalists!

What a great weekend of friend-making, learning and networking!

 What city do you like to explore?