The last two days have been a reminder of American history and our pioneer spirit. We started the day in North Liberty, IA, near the interstate intersection of I-80 and I-380 (Iowa City area).
We spent last evening visiting the Amana colonies, where German Pietists (aka Community of True Inspiration) continued their way of communal living and craftsmanship. Any time you might be going by on I-80, it is worth the few miles off the interstate to take a look at this slower way of life in the seven Amana colonies. And, yes, this is the place where appliance production has its roots. I still have a working Amana microwave, which was used in my first apartment. It still works and hasn't needed repair. Ah, if everything we purchased could be made so well. http://amanacolonies.com/pages/about-amana-colonies.php
Because we had the time, we drove on the back roads of northeastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. We saw the heart of America's farming communities--corn, corn, and more corn. The early pioneers who worked this ground demonstrate the perseverance that has made America great. Clearing the fields, enduring the wind and elements, and living in such isolation are evidence of a sacrifice of great proportions.
We end our Sunday at the Flying Goose, a beautiful campground on a lake near Fairmount, MN. This is the stereotype I have of Minnesota...small lakes, campers around, birds and trees, and cool evenings. We came in during a drizzly rain, but ended the evening with cool sunlight. As we walked around the lake, we are reminded of the beauty of nature around us. http://www.flyinggoosecampground.com/
Happy travels.
Jane and Brad
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