At the end of September, we drove Miss Winnie to Iowa for maintenance work at HWH in Moscow and the Winnebago Service Center in Forest City.

The first stop was in Moscow. We did a day trip to the National Pearl Button Museum in Muscatine while the RV’s jacks and large slide-out were getting service. The museum is free and Andy was allowed inside. Hailed as the Pearl Button Capital of the World, the industry started in this city in 1891, and lasted 75 years. It disappeared because of the depleting supply and due to the rise of plastic buttons. Mussels need about 80 years to mature, therefore an unsustainable source for pearl button production.

Then it was time to drive up to Forest City. We arrived more than 10 days ahead of our appointment date for a new HVAC system, hoping Winnebago might squeeze us in. It didn’t happen. Over the first weekend, we drove north to Austin, Minnesota to visit the SPAM Museum again. The first time was nearly 10 years ago. Another free and fun museum, but hold onto your wallets in the gift shop. The next weekend we drove about 40 miles to Albert Lea, MN to Home Depot and Walmart.

Staying in Forest City means you find things to do to pass the time waiting for your coach. We walked a 3.5 mile trail, and through the neighborhoods. Dined at the local Chinese restaurant and the A&W. Went to the post office. Shopped for groceries at the Hy-Vee. Talked to other RV-ers about RV’s and met their pets. One couple in their 80’s had a 27 year-old cockatoo that will outlive them. We didn’t let Andy greet Umbi the cockatoo, but he did meet Chuck the Yorkie.

August and September were intense months for us so we were grateful for the slow pace in Forest City. It was needed down time, but we’re always glad to be back home.

Where do you go to “get away from it all”? Share your comments with us. Maybe Hubby and I would like to visit there.