As we drove through the countryside we were shocked at the evidence of drought in the corn fields. There were acres and acres of dried up corn fields across the entire state and we couldn't help but wonder how the farmers were coping with so much loss. It was disheartening to see.
We also learned that Holland, MI is not the only city with an imported windmill and the Dutch people are not the only people who used windmills. We discovered in Elkhorn, Iowa a charming windmill imported from Denmark, and realized that the American Danes celebrate it as much as the American Dutch celebrate theirs.
We went into the gift shop near the windmill and the first thing I noticed was that the person who signed the guest book just before me was named Marlys. Of course I immediately went on the prowl to find that mystery person! I never did find her, but we did meet a very friendly couple who were traveling from Denmark (although she was raised in the Netherlands). They are also on a two month trip and their itinerary is almost identical to ours. They are also tent camping along the way, but that is where the similarity ends. They had a tiny tent and a couple of backpacks. We have... well, let's just say that we have a lot more than that with us!
I also learned that Marlys is a Dutch name, but it is spelled Marlyes and is pronounced with a rolling "r" and a very sophisticated sounding second syllable. I must remember to tell all of my friends to use this new, much more beautiful pronunciation! I am having Jim practice this frequently. I am quite sure he is very excited to learn this new way of addressing me!
We are happy to have safely arrived at Rick & Kristie's tonight and look forward to a great day with them tomorrow.
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