As I am driving along the highways of IA, listening to the inauguration address, I pull into my first stop: Dike, IA.
"That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood........ Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered."
Along my stops I see the consequences of a weakened economy in the shape and form of empty storefronts. These downtown areas are only kept vibrant and alive by the efforts of small business owners and its patrons. When the jobs go, so to the shops and restaurants. People move on and the town closes its doors. Trickle down economics in reverse.
A little further up the road is a sweet little town called Applington. I have many fond memories of having tea with my best girlfriend at The Peppercorn Pantry. Delicious quiche or croissant sandwiches and soups, served on beautiful china and tables set with lace tablecloths, crystal candlesticks, and silver place settings. A wonderful experience.
And I am always on the hunt for treasures.
Here is another example of small town IA but exuding big time charm.
Just look at that winter coat. Beautiful morning to be a couple of horses. They look like best friends sharing a meal of macaroni and cheese flavored oats together.
A view of historic main street and the town square.
Ut oh, are there Shenanigans going on down the street?
Ah, the lovely Iowa Falls. Home to heroes and deep ditches. Notice the great view and angle taken of this sign.
Oops, I got a little bit too close to the edge. Knew it as soon as I did it by the slight tilt to my car. No amount of traction control was going to get me out of that one. Along came my hero in a pale yellow Blazer/Bronco SUV complete with towing chains. After a few attempts, I was finally on my way. Big thanks to him. He took off before I could properly thank him. Small town hero, but big time kindness.
This town has a lot of of gems including this Carnegie endowed building. Look!! The Eagle has landed.
After I finish working some business I head downtown where I can usually spot a beauty or two. No disappointment here. Check out the detail in this next building The Metropolitan. Another favorite for various reasons. Isn't it a beauty? It's the local downtown movie theater. Emmmm, I could almost smell the hot buttered corn permeating the air. Wonder if they have that good orange popcorn salt.
Ahhh...a cafe fit for a princess. Would be a wonderful place to take your daughters for tea. Notice the awesome building beside it. A blend of both modern and historic.
I always like to end my day with a treat. Can't think of anything better than a nice cuppa, a sweet treat, a great friend, and an old book.
Ciao!!
1 comment:
Great writing...love reading your blog. Didn't realize that Audiology bikers were such creative writers; you go girl..wit yo bad self.
The inauguration of the 44th president of the United States will probably be recorded in history as one of the most, if not the most, far-reaching and significant events in our nation and the world. Just think, 50 years ago in Paducah, Ky, I couln't use the front doors of the Movie Theater because I was not the right color. I had to buy my ticket and junk food in the front, and then walk around to the back of the theater, climb a long flight of stairs, and sit in the balcony. (At the time, I thought this was really cool; heck I got to sit in the best seats in the theater and I was always at a great angle to shoot spit-balls at folks on the first floor.) Now, January 20, 2009, we have a president of the United States - leader of the free world -that looks like me! Wow!! It's an awesome feeling that words can not express.
blog on
Post a Comment