Marengo, Iowa

June 1, 2025

Although Iowa is not new to us (we have been to and through the Hawkeye State a few times over the years), this was the first visit in our nomadic retirement. And it was our first time visiting Julie's friend, Kim, and her daughter's family on their property in rural Marengo.

Crossing the Mississippi River

Apparently, this is the world's largest truck stop

Not a lot of traffic here (just as we like it 🙂)

There was plenty of room for our camper on our friends' 30 acres (with a great view, too)

We had a very relaxing few days' stay, and spent our time mostly visiting with Kim's lovely family (including two very cute grandsons) and taking in the beautiful views. Kim's husband Greg likes to tell everyone, "Everyone thinks Iowa is flat--but it's not", and that is so true. Everywhere we looked there were gorgeous rolling hills of bucolic farmland. What a wonderful place for kids to grow up!

We did go on a few outings during our stay--to the quaint Amana Colonies for dinner, to the college town of Grinnell for lunch, and to Montezuma to check out the recently purchased lake house that Kim and Greg are completely remodeling inside and out. Their generous neighbors in Montezuma even gave us an enjoyable tour of the lake on their pontoon boat. We look forward to visiting next year when the house is all finished!

Pretty countryside

Kim and Greg's new lake house It will look completely different next year with new siding and landscaping.

What a great view we had during our stay!

We saw and heard quite a bit of wildlife

Kim's adorable grandsons

You can see our camper up on the hill next to the white building. Kim's daughter's house is on the right.

Greg took us on a ride in his side-by-side so that we could get a sense for what 30 acres looks like. (It looks like a lot--to us at least😉)

Sunset the first night

We experienced smoke from the Manitoba wildfires during much of our visit, but it only enhanced the pictures Julie took near sunset one day. She had a hard time editing out pictures, so perhaps there are a few too many 😉.

Just makes you want to start singing John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads", doesn't it?

We'd like to extend a warm and heartfelt thanks to Kim, Greg, Megan, Mitch and there adorable little boys for opening up their home to us. We had a wonderfully relaxing time and enjoyed visiting with you all!

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