Barn on the Bluff

September 10-12, 2021

Attending:  Lisa R, Brenda, Connie , Lisa L, Julie, Peggy, Sue

We all met at the Barn on the Bluff near Elkader, Iowa earlier Friday afternoon, where we were greeted by our hosts Julie and Rick Dengler.

They renovated a barn built in 1901 into a rustic oasis set in beautiful Clayton County Iowa.  The barn has a 60 foot veranda (they told us it was a porch, but we are sure that it is a veranda) where the view was just amazing.  Decorah may have a ball diamond, but this is where Heaven is in Iowa!

Julie Dengler is a professional photographer and we took advantage of that to get our first professional group photos.  She took pictures of us as we "assumed the position" at the sign by the entrance, with the view from the barn as a back drop and another on the veranda displaying the beautiful National Park Quilts that Lisa R made for everyone. 

There were plenty of things to keep us busy during our time at the barn.  We played bags, pool and ping pong.  Watched the ISU / Iowa Game - only Sue was happy with the out come of that game.  Evenings were spent at the fire pit toasting, talking and reminiscing.

We also took time to check out the town of Elkader. Saturday morning we visited the quilt shop, antique stores, and other fun shops.  Even found some great ice cream!

Breakfasts at the barn are a reason to get out of bed.  Saturday we had Spinach Egg Bake,  Cinnamon Apple Sauce, Ham Slice and a Fresh from the Oven Muffin.  On Sunday, we were treated to Rhubarb French Toast, Scrambled Eggs with Fresh Basil and Havarti Cheese, Gilbertville Sausage, Yogurt, Fresh Berries and Homemade Granola.

After Breakfast on Sunday we had time for some more ping pong before we had to pack up, say good-bye and head home.