Garden State

In an effort to get more practice with my camera before Spain, David and I have been taking little day trips to fun places. First we went to Forest Park a couple weeks ago and the other day we visited the Missouri Botanical Gardens. I picked the second hottest day of the summer so far and let me tell you, I felt the heat. David says for every degree hot it is, I complain that much more. Ha. He's probably right. I better get over that bad habit soon because the forecast in Spain is way hotter. Lucky me. : )

The gardens are super expansive and meticulously up kept. We don't get there every year, but it is a nice place to take in when you can. Next time I'll remember to go in a much cooler time of year! I am happy to say that I finally took my camera off of the settings and shot in manual half of the day! I set the ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and manual focused all on my own. I have tons to learn, but I am happy I at least took the first baby step. There are numerous problems with their composition, but they're mine and they make me happy.

We ended the afternoon at a cute little cupcake bar, Jilly's, for lunch and what else--cupcakes!

We had some mini burgers and a black bean, tomato, and cheese quesadilla and then bought some cupcakes to go. I almost ate an entire one today and have to admit that I think the Cupcakery in the Central West End is better. To make absolute sure I'll have to visit that place again real soon for comparison purposes! ; )