What a huge change from Nebraska to Iowa! I am continually amazed at the wonderful differences in geography and geology in this huge country. Nebraska was fairly flat as we drove across the Eastern half of Nebraska on I-80. Driving through the large cities, Lincoln and Omaha, was just as crazy as driving through most cities, but the extensive construction on I-80 threw in some extra drama. We crossed the bridge (over the Missouri River) into Council Bluffs, Iowa, and were astounded at the quick change in the terrain.
Iowa is all rolling hills along I-80. There are more trees and lots of rivers. Every rolling hill has a farm on it. The contrast was that Nebraska had lots of huge ranches and we saw large herds of cattle and many horse farms. In Iowa the farms are rolling and much smaller and we did not see cattle ranches but we did see dairy farms. The farm fields that cover the hills are tiered – my limited knowledge of farming suggests that the terracing helps to control run-off and soil erosion. The drive was really beautiful.
There is highway construction (there has been highway construction everywhere!) but not as much and it disrupts traffic flow a lot less. The drive through the capitol of Des Moines was the usual struggle with traffic. I am so glad that we have somehow avoided driving through cities during rush hour! We also gave Iowa top honors for their welcome center on I-80 just over the state line from Nebraska. It was large, new, and well-stocked with Iowa info and a free Iowa map. Driving was tiring because we have stuck with a 6-7 hour trip each day on our way home. Dennis is learning that he needs to share driving duties on a more equitable basis. He does not realize he is tired until it is way too late, but I recognize the signs and I’m not afraid to say, “It’s my turn.” I am sure we will get better about this as time goes on.
We are looking forward to being home soon.
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