Originally posted at KC Free Press Online Newspaper August 2010
Initially planned as a wet and wild all-or-nothing girls’ weekend, the intention was that four stressed out ladies would arrive in all our spirited glory to ravage the small town of Hermann, Missouri. Truth be told, the opportunity to walk from winery to winery and sample local wines for two days without a hint of responsibility was a large part of the decision to land ourselves amidst the Missouri vineyards.
After extensive text deliberation we very strategically chose The Stone Giraffe Bed and Breakfast as the location for our weekend shenanigans. While not the least expensive lodging in the Hermann area, it was appropriately secluded and advertised a beautiful, natural view. Okay; the truth is that a phone call had confirmed, too, that none of the other guests at this location would have children in tow.
A mere 188 miles from Kansas City, the three hour trip went quickly. Armed with the confidence and giddiness of freedom, we arrived at our destination elated, adventurous and ready to party down. We were greeted on the gorgeous lawn of the home by smile bearing owners Sharon Havis and Eddie LaBoube (La-Boo). The couple refers to their five-bedroom home as “an uncommon guesthouse.” As the owner of a marketing firm, I was curious to know the branding angle of that statement. As an exhausted, routine-tied mom and wife, I was just ready for something uncommon.
I think it was within one hour that I fell madly in love with Hermann, Missouri. The weekend is an intoxicating blur that began the instant I smelled the pure, sweet air. The Stone Giraffe is situated on a hilltop that overlooks the entire city and theMissouri River. I stood on the back deck that overlooks the small community of German descent, and I was instantly enamored by the beauty of the scenic hills and rolling vineyards for which Hermann is well known.
I’m still not sure if it was the non existence of needy children, the fact that I never once saw a telephone or perhaps the lack of background noise sponsored by Nick Jr.; but I sensed that this girls-gone-wild weekend had just become a soul pampering visit into history.
An admitted coffee addict, I spent two long mornings and two lazy afternoons sipping coffee, without interruption, while imagining the lives of the people already active and working in the village below. I passed on the invitation to drive into the next town for a full-on girl only shopping excursion so I could continue watching the squirrels playing down below; oblivious to the fact that I was even there playing voyeur to their fun.
Each walk through the inviting sitting room called for a pause in the dining area. A seemingly never-ending plate of locally made cheeses and meats remained on the counter top of the cozy kitchen. As expected, there was no shortage of local wine and it was nice to enjoy a late afternoon glass of a mild red alone while watching the sun set.
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