Winter can be miserable in St. Louis, with the gray sky, cold temperatures and static electricity from hats. But there are always a few bright spots: a day that hits 60 degrees or a bright blue sky that keeps you believing spring is right around the corner. I’ve come across a few things that can brighten a dreary day.
Have you heard about Rise Collaborative Workspace? It is brand new and doesn’t open until Feb. 9, but you need to check it out. Founder Stacy Taubman told me there are more than 50,000 female-owned businesses in our community. Most work out of their homes or the local Bread Co., and as you can imagine, that can be a little isolating and uninspiring. Sometimes you just need to be around people, but not just any people. Smart, professional, successful people, and that is where Rise comes in.
This project offers private or drop-in offices for female-focused businesses. It is membership-based, so you can determine how often you need the space. The membership also includes speaker sessions, workshops and book clubs (finally, I might actually belong to a book club!) Rise also has a program for girls in high school and college. Besides academic workspace, it provides a way to connect with some very successful businesswomen. Check out the website at www.riseworkspace.com. Don’t be surprised if you see me hanging around there looking for ideas for my column, because sometimes even my monkey mind needs a little inspiration.
Other good things have brightened my winter, like Andy Cohen. It’s hard being his biggest fan, especially since he is unaware of my existence. Andy, the host of Bravo’s nightly Watch What Happens Live and the producer of reality TV shows like The Real Housewives of New York City, is a very proud native St. Louisan. I recently attended a radio show sponsored by KMOX that featured Andy and Charlie Brennan. And no, he did not pull me out of the crowd to tell me how incredibly funny he finds me, but he did autograph his most recent book for me, Superficial. It’s like you are hanging out with Andy and his friends, like SJP, Anderson and Kelly. (No last names needed!) It’s a perfect cold weather read. Adult topics are covered, so don’t share it with your kids. Instead, give them Growing Up with the River by Dan and Connie Burkhardt.
That is yet another thing that has made my winter better. I spent more time than usual outside this year. I actually touched two rivers, the Mississippi and Missouri! Anyhow, the Burkhardts have written a children’s book about growing up by the Missouri River. Each story takes you to a different place and time, introduces you to new characters, teaches you about history and provides you with fun facts. I must say, I learned more than I should have. Did you know that the Missouri River is longer than the Mississippi? Or that Daniel Boone was not just a character on a TV show? Hmm, and to think I graduated from Washington University!
Visit www.katylandtrust.org to find out where to pick up a copy of the book. And stay warm!
Contact Patty at phannum@townandstyle.com.
