Polish Power

The weekend after Labor Day might just be another weekend to most people but if you're Polish you know that it's time for the Polish Festival (and shame on you if you don't!). Held each year at the Polish Falcons compound on St. Louis Avenue, the Festival attracts a modest, but loyal, crowd that loves to show off it's red and white pride. Of course, the best part of making the trip to the near north side of town is the food. Eight dollars buys the Polish Dinner Plate which is a sampler of Polands finest--cabbage roll, pierogi, and kielbasa. You also get Polish style mashed potatoes and green beans. If you're still hungry, you can chose from a variety of Polish pastries for dessert. Willa skipped the food and headed straight for the games of chance and polka music.

Japanese Festival

The annual Japanese Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden was last weekend. And though you can't tell by these photos, the Garden was alive with all things Japanese. Willa especially liked the Taiko drummers and the entertainment of "The Candy Man." But, as you can see, she was just as excited to see the sheep sculptures and the water fountain. A visit to the Garden for us isn't complete without a stop to rest on the back of a sheep and a drink to rehydrate.