Open Spaces and Close Family

I had my first chance at an internet connection again tonight, so wanted to update the blog. I have so much to write, but first wanted to address the tragic news back in Virginia. Phill learned earlier today that his flight instructor out at Warrenton-Faulkier airport was involved in a mid-air collision on Monday afternoon. Paul Gardella and another pilot on board their Bonanza aircraft were both killed. Please keep their families in your prayers. I was lucky enough to have gone up with both Phill and Paul several months ago, and of course Phill had come to know Paul quite well during his lessons. He was well respected and a sought after instructor. He certainly touched many lives at that airport.

Such news always makes us pause, be thankful, and consider the truly important things in life, doesn't it? It all can be over in a blink of an eye. For me, these past two days have indeed been a gift, as I've felt more at home than ever among warm, welcoming people and beautiful farm country.

In the last 48 hours, I've seen the farmhouses where relatives were born, heard numerous stories recounting holiday gatherings, childhood mischief, and the realities of being farmers in this country, and absorbed the warmth that Phill's family just naturally exudes as they embraced me in their presence. Each member has a storied background and an amazing life to share. Since I started dating Phill in high school, I've heard about the magic of Iowa. Now that I've experienced it for myself, it truly is a magical place. It reminds me so much of my own family and the memories I have of my grandparent's place in Indiana. Maybe that's why this has all come so natural to me...it feels like going home.

I stayed in a cabin in St. Charles, MN, that was handcrafted piece by piece. It has 7 different hardwoods in its bones, representing the woods from which it was constructed. We saw eagles and their babies. My father-in-law has devotedly watched the famous eagle's nest outside of Decorah for the last three years. They placed a webcam up near the nest and broadcast the happenings to the entire world. This same eagle pair has returned to the nest for several years now and millions have witnessed the hatchings and raising of the eaglets. If any of you are interested, just google the Decorah eagles. It was so special to see the nest in person and share the fascination with Garry. We toured the Bily Clock Museum in Spillville. We have eaten. Oh boy have we enjoyed home-cooked meals!

As I write this, Aunt Tammy, Grandma and I are headed to Waterloo and will begin our fishing trip tomorrow. I might disconnect again for a few days, but will be back with more stories and pictures soon.