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dailyanarchistposts · 5 months ago

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Histories of colonisation ought to be remembered, including the horrors and atrocities, but also the endurance and empowerment found in trenchant resistance and the fight for sovereignty, writes Radhika Reddy.

India and Aotearoa are both grappling with decolonisation. In this ongoing struggle to wrest free from the legacies of colonialism, each society can learn from the other.

A recent piece published by The Spinoff uncovered some of these lessons, but in my view gave a rather disempowering view of both Māori and Indian experiences. It emphasised tragedy, brutality and suffering, but overlooked trenchant resistance efforts seeking sovereignty, where we might find the most useful stories to exchange.

Common ground

The previous article began with common ground, but only focused on Māori and Hindu ecological values, so let’s broaden the picture with some Indian traditions beyond Hinduism, and decolonising Māori values.

Papatūānuku and Kaitiakitanga: Khalifa, Amana (from Islam)

An “ethos of living in harmony in nature” is found in Islam, India’s second-largest religion. The Quranic approach is based on Khalifa and Amana (trusteeship of nature) in which humans have guardianship over nature, to appreciate and care for it, pass it unspoiled to future generations, and manage sustainably.

Manaakitanga: Seva (from Sikhism)

A spirit of hospitality pointedly appears in the centuries-old Sikh tradition of Guru Ka Langar (communal meal), an act of Seva (selfless service). Langar serves food freely and equally to all-comers, regardless of religion, caste, wealth, gender or age, overcoming divisions exploited by colonialism.

Tino rangatiratanga: Swaraj (from secularism)

Māori notions of self-government and Gandhi’s credo of Swaraj (self-rule) share an essence of seeking self-determination, with social structures and values separate from colonial interference.

Besides principles, there are common experiences and episodes of resistance shared in history:

Parihaka

The events of Parihaka came long before India’s independence movement gained momentum, but the spirit of non-violent resistance echoes across centuries, possibly having influenced Gandhi.

Redcoats

British regiments frequently rotated through India and New Zealand. Waves of veterans, after plundering India or suppressing its rebellions, came to fight the New Zealand Wars, or left to police India. British statues as well as town, street and suburb names across Aotearoa are familiar to students of Indian history — Empress Victoria, Governor-General Auckland, Colonel then Commander-in-Chief Wellesley (later Duke of Wellington), and places like Bombay or Khyber Pass. These are connected histories.

Lessons India has to offer for Māori

Among decolonisation projects, India’s imperfect story of independence still has interesting lessons.

Non-violent resistance works

Māori have led non-violent resistance in Aotearoa for generations, from Parihaka to Ihumātao, and may find the example of India’s liberation a hopeful landmark victory in global history.

The practice of Indian non-violent resistance continues to this day, as protests rage against likely unconstitutional policies such as the Citizenship Amendment Act and the National Register of Citizens, with assemblies, marches, sit-ins, and art, despite state violence.

Coexistence

Although India ejected British occupation and suffers internal divisions, there is still a firm thread running through the ages demonstrating coexistence between different cultures.

Look to chapters in history like the peaceful inclusion of Muslims in South India since the seventh century, the religious tolerance of Akbar in the 16th century, the joint Hindu-Muslim Indian Rebellion of 1857, and the secular Indian constitution. They contrast with divisive ideologies like Hindutva founder V.D Savarkar’s two-nation theory that promoted a dominant Hindu nation. The daily lives of many Indians today embody inter-cultural acceptance, the norm across much of the country, most of the time.

Whereas Aotearoa may not return its settler society for a full refund, multicultural coexistence is possible.

Overcoming divide-and-rule

Whether it was the East India Companies or the British Raj, a small minority of power brokers ran the show — infamously, 35 staff in an East India Company office. They relied on divide-and-rule, recruiting vast numbers of Indian foot soldiers (Sepoys) to do the hard work. But a highly-leveraged organisational arrangement is weak to united resistance (like Kotahitanga). Today it appears in gig economies or the criminal justice industry, which pit marginalised people against each other.

Self-government is not always good government

Today’s India shows how things can get wobbly even 70 years after independence, as a homegrown blood-and-soil movement undermines equality and reproduces colonial hierarchies atop a diverse society.

Take the word “decolonisation”. It probably looks straightforward, but it is a co-opted term in India. In the name of decolonisation, the Hindutva movement promotes discriminatory reforms, such as ending affirmative action for lower-caste people, and passing the exclusionary Citizenship Amendment Act.

There are regions under Indian rule seeking greater autonomy or Azaadi (freedom) today – resisting occupation by a central Indian state, as Assam endures detention centres, and Kashmir a militarised siege.

It takes eternal vigilance to protect hard-won sovereignty from sabotage.

What India can learn from Māori

Colonialism is now

It is tempting to think colonialism must belong only to museums and history books. But settler-colonial societies still persist. In Aotearoa, settlers may have settled but the nation remains unsettled. As Treaty negotiations, claims and protests unfold, Indians can reflect on how the colonial legacy is fed by continuous re-colonisation – a risk India is prone to, not from Britain, but from, say, supremacists within.

Indians in Aotearoa can also respond by allying with Māori in decolonisation efforts.

Overcoming casteism and anti-indigeneity

While there is no comparing two complex societies, there are still parallels between the institutional discrimination that Māori have endured, and the discrimination against Dalit, Other Backward Class, Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and Adivasi (indigenous) people. As Indians in Aotearoa can find solidarity with Māori in undoing colonial oppression, so too can India find equality for its systematically disadvantaged classes.

Protecting taonga like language

While India is blessed with a diversity of cultures, a tendency to homogenise society with one language and identity sometimes rears its head. Whether under well-meaning secularism, or Hindutva rule, language imposition threatens diversity. South Indian languages like Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada are spoken by large minorities but are often in tension with a Hindi regime pushed by central governments. The experience of Te Reo Māori shows the value in preserving languages, and the perils of erasure.

Common struggles

Supremacism

Whether it is white supremacy or Hindu supremacy (sharing traits like Islamophobia), countering dangerous ideologies is vital to fulfill the egalitarian promise of the constitutions of both Aotearoa and India.

Climate change

A global challenge like climate change demands a variety of solutions, but most importantly by centering indigenous people in decision-making — something Aotearoa has yet to fully embrace. For all the “harmony with nature” embedded in dominant Indian cultures such as Hinduism, the ruling BJP government has much to answer for when it comes to emissions, environmental degradation and deregulation.

Feminism, LGBT and disability equality

Achieving equality for women, non-binary, LGBT and disabled people in India and Aotearoa is an ongoing struggle. Threats like sexual abuse, domestic violence, inadequate healthcare, colourism, repressive gender roles, limited autonomy, inaccessiblity, and economic inequality, are common concerns.

Patriarchal British norms echo in Indian laws, as with Section 377 that criminalised homosexuality until recently. Despite decriminalisation in 2018, there is not yet recognition of same-sex or gender-diverse marriage, protection against discrimination, or adequate healthcare. Trans Indians are targeted by the new Transgender Persons Act which sanctions second-class treatment — for instance, it provides for lower sentences in cases of violent crimes against trans women. The new Citizenship Amendment Act and National Register of Citizens especially threaten women, non-binary, LGBT and disabled people.

In Aotearoa, amendments to laws like the Birth, Deaths, Marriages, and Relationships Registration Bill, letting trans people more easily update birth certificates, still face transphobic opposition. Abortion decriminalisation remains under consideration. Māori may be worst affected by settler-colonial sexism, homophobia, transphobia and ableism.

These are signs that our societies have a long way to go, to enact systemic reforms, and to lift the veil of everyday shame and silence surrounding marginalised lives in our cultures.

Remembering

Histories of colonisation ought to be remembered, including the horrors and atrocities, but also the endurance and empowerment found in resistance. The previous Spinoff article proposed a museum dedicated to New Zealand colonisation, and praised changes to the curriculum teaching New Zealand history in all schools.

Both of these are laudable goals, but must be conducted with care to avoid the kind of revisionism seen in India under Hindutva rule. Any museum of New Zealand colonisation should seek to share with all New Zealanders the narratives Māori have learned and developed, to centre Māori self-determination and agency, and to emphasise coexistence under a Treaty framework that respects Tino Rangatiratanga.

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bearcina · 2 years ago

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"I Don't Do Botany, Anymore."

Ruth Bellamy/Ophelia Amana

E rated because of the nature of the game and DLC, however no smut.

Set after Murder on Eridanos, this is your fair warning for SPOILERS!!

Ophelia felt a warm hand on her cold, cold shoulder. It felt like a vice was slowly wrapping around her throat.

"I don't do botany, anymore."

Ophelia shares an evening with Helen

"Miss Bellamy?" Ophelia quietly called, stepping into the penthouse bedchamber. The aetherwave star was sitting at the computer and typing away, but stopped and looked to the Investigator.

"Investigator, it's nice to see you." She said, and cracked a small smile. "I can't thank you enough."

Ophelia smiled back after a minute.

"What will you do now, if you don't mind me asking?" Ophelia asked. She shut the door behind her and meandered over to sit on the bed.

"With Belinda gone, I think I'll be leaving the colony." Ruth sighed, and tapped a few keys to quit her session on the computer.

"Yeah? I hope you find somewhere nice. Somewhere far from this mess." Ophelia smiled, she had done the same thing when she left Earth. Originally planned on working a remote botany outpost, and maybe running away with a few sweethearts.

"You care so much for such a stranger, inspector." The actress smiled and leaned in. "I don't know anything about you, but you've already found out more about me than anyone else has in many years," she confessed.

Ophelia blushed and rubbed her neck. She had a talent for rooting out secrets.

"Well, I'm certainly an open book for you, Miss Bellamy." Ophelia said, and leaned in a little more.

The actress was silent, and studied the form of the inspector relaxing on the unmade bed.

"Who are you really, inspector? Not the person you show to people, but the real you." Ruth asked. She thought it was fair, the inspector hadn't even offered her real name, preferring investigator, or captain.

Ophelia stopped smiling after a second. Then she started to turn pale, and a flighty look appeared in her eyes.

"O-oh, it doesn't really matter." She stammered.

Ruth hummed noncommittally, and squinted at the squirming captain. She had been so calm and composed in their previous chats.

Ophelia let silence fill the room.

The actress didn't offer anything else.

"You just wouldn't believe me if I told you, it sounds almost like the plot to a horror movie back home." Ophelia sighed, and shifted to get comfortable.

"A horror movie?" The actress repeated, now interested even more. No one called them movies anymore... Serials dominated the aetherwave.

"Yeah." Ophelia sighed. "Straight out of my worst nightmares." She patted the bed beside her, it was going to be a long story.

Ruth joined her after a moment.

"My name is Ophelia Amana, former botanist, and Hope colonist. I was selected by Spacers Choice to board the Hope for my ability to make things grow." Ophelia said. Her heart sped up, pounding like a jackrabbit in her chest. "I was going to be placed on Terra One, or what's now called Monarch, and I was to build a greenhouse and make the Earth crops grow in the alien soil."

Ruth frowned, the Hope was still lost.

Ophelia kept going after a moments pause.

"But... As you know, the Hope got lost. Very lost." Her heart was pounding faster and harder. Her head swam. "Seventy years late kinda lost." She was going to spill her story, all of it. Ruth couldn't do anything against her with it, if she even believed it.

"I got rescued recently, got thawed out. Scientist said he needed someone with the right amount of grit and brains, and I fit the bill almost perfectly. The botanist part ended up as just a footnote compared to what I do now..."

Ophelia felt a warm hand on her cold, cold shoulder. It felt like a vice was slowly wrapping around her throat.

"I don't do botany, anymore."

She had so much more she could say, so much she wanted to say, but it was like her heart was shattering.

"I'm sorry, but I've got- I've got to go check on something." Ophelia wiped her cheeks and dashed out the bedroom door.

"Investigator, it seems you're ready to leave Eridanos. I can't say I blame you, I'll also be leaving soon." Ruth said, delicately touching Ophelia's arm to get her attention. She had been waiting for the elusive girl to pass by.

Ophelia jumped, and squeaked.

"Ah! Hello, Miss Bellamy!" She stammered, flustering quickly. She had a duffel bag in the crook of her other arm and was on her way back to her home on the Unreliable. "I'm more than ready to take a hot shower on my ship and park out somewhere alone."

Ruth smiled sweetly back at her, and started walking with her.

"You still have yet to tell me about yourself, Ophelia." Ruth chuckled, leaning against her, "I hope you didn't plan on leaving without telling me..."

Ophelia stopped at the ramp to her ship with a defeated sigh.

"I..." She muttered, "I'm no one special, really... Just Ophelia."

"That can't be true, you certainly seemed to have a lot to say last time I asked." Ruth teased. She turned Ophelia's head to face her, and she smiled at the pink dusting her pale cheeks and neck.

Ophelia shook her head.

"I'm just a freelancer now, Miss Bellamy. I run supplies and end problems."

"But how are you fareing, if you are from the Hope, you must be experiencing some culture shock, maybe even..."

Ophelia yelped and shook her head.

She nervously chuckled, "I came to Halcyon with a blanket and a dream, but I woke up so late... My first memories here are less than fond, and my dream has long since been shattered to dust. I woke up without my blanket, and was hurtling towards Terra Two before I could think."

Ruth gave her the same look Max, ADA, and even Zora had given her.

Pity.

"This colony chewed me up and spit me out like a piece of old gum, and it's done the same to you and your sister." Ophelia muttered, leaning closer to the aetherwave star on her arm. "You've got the same chance I had seventy years ago, Ruth, take it before you can't."

Ruth didn't have much to say after that, so she just nodded a few times.

"Goodbye, Ruth. Be careful out there." Ophelia gave her a strained smile. It hurt. It hurt to let go of the star she just met.

She felt a cold gun get pressed into her hands, Ruth giving her a sweet smile.

"You'll need this more than I will, Ophelia. And who knows, maybe you'll be a botanist again." Ruth said. It was the Needler, her personal sidearm. And she was giving it to Ophelia.

The aetherwave star leaned in and gave Ophelia a chaste goodbye kiss, then walked back into the mess of the shipyard.

#ophelia amana #the outer worlds #the captain/ruth bellamy #bear writes

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etraytin · 2 years ago

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I started this in the tags, but it got really long and complicated so fuck it, we ball.

If this site or the internet as we know it had been around when I was 11 instead of it being a mass of BBS networks where you could book an hour of online time to download .bmp files of extremely pixelated and blurry soda pop cans, I would've spent every waking moment talking about Star Trek: The Next Generation. Little me was so, so, so into Star Trek that it wraps around from not even funny to actually very funny. I saw the Season One episode "The Arsenal of Freedom" in a hotel room with my folks on a vacation to the Amana Colonies and I couldn't stop thinking about it for the entire rest of the trip. (I later figured out that what had really grabbed me by the throat was "hurt/comfort story" but by the time I realized that I was way too deep into the fandom to get out.)

For the rest of my childhood and early adolescence, I was in very deep on Star Trek. My folks were already fans, which is why I saw it in the first place, so even without the internet or any instant video service I had a deep well of material in the form of the first 25 or so TNG novels and a whole bunch of TOS novels as well (which I read later when I became desperate.) I read all the ones heavily featuring Dr. Crusher first because she was my favorite, then the ones with Troi and with Tasha Yar because they were the other women, and then when that scant handful of books was done, I read the others. I had nowhere to go with my disappointment about the lack of developed female characters in the series, so I just thought about it to myself. I was growing up in the evangelical church at that time too, so my disquiet with women being pushed into offscreen support roles was fairly pervasive but not something to be spoken too loudly.

I developed a series of incredibly elaborate mental fanfics (didn't know that word yet either) where my middle school friends and I developed Q powers and traveled with the Enterprise, having hijinks and righting wrongs. I enjoyed this sort of daydreaming enough that it consumed a lot of my attention, something I only realized might be a problem when I caught myself hoping that the Enterprise would beam me up soon so I didn't have to finish practicing my clarinet. ("Hyperfixation" and "Maladaptive daydreaming" were words I wouldn't learn for another few decades either, but I knew what they were.) After that point I continued making fics in my head, but I invented characters to project onto because it felt much safer. I jotted fic ideas down in my school notebooks and even doodled a few pictures but I never did anything with them because there was nowhere to go with them. I also enjoyed reading about Star Trek, so my birthdays and Christmases were full of Nitpickers Guides and Compendiums and Unofficial Series Bibles and all kinds of new things to learn about Star Trek that wasn't just the canon material! It was great, but a little frustrating that the information was so hard to come by and the books were always so expensive. I always wished there were more and that I could maybe write some of it myself.

By the time I finished high school, the internet was becoming a much more accessible space for people who didn't want to spend most of their first online year just learning to internet at all, and fannish spaces were blooming like flowers. My personal fandom had mostly moved on by that time and I was much more involved in The X-Files, which was full of mystery and drama and a female lead who got both lines _and_ plot action to deliver. I met my husband in an AOL X-Files adjacent RP chat in 1998 so that fandom remains dear to me as well, but that's another story.

To circle (finally) back to the actual question, eleven year old me on Tumblr would've been the most stereotypical, most Mary-Suified, most writing-fan-letters-to-Diane-Duane-every-week little fangirl you can possibly imagine, and I love her for that. My way of dealing with younger fans and less adept fannish behavior changed a lot after college when I learned to forgive and embrace what I had thought of as cringe (again before that was a thing) but was actually the sincerest and most open form of fandom appreciation. I may not want to read what today's middle schoolers are putting into the fandoms I'm in, but oh my god, am I pleased that they have a place to put it! It costs nothing to toss them a kudos and some encouraging words. To find something you love in fandom at 11 or 12 is to have a warm blanket against the bitter cold of adolescence, and to belong to a fandom is to have a group who understands the metaphors for all the things you feel and can't explain except in anecdotes or song lyrics.

If I'd had Tumblr when I was 11, both it and I would undoubtedly have been a little weirder for it, but I like to think it would be in a good way.

If you guys were on here at 11 years old what would you be posting about

#fandom stuff #the eleven year old in me is still fangirling about diane duane on tumblr tbh

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ryanrock0 · 4 months ago

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Exploring Iowa's Scenic Wonders: The Most Beautiful Regions to Visit

Iowa, often overshadowed by its neighboring states, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and charming landscapes. Known for its rolling plains and rich agricultural heritage, the state offers diverse scenery that captivates residents and visitors alike. From breathtaking river bluffs to picturesque small towns, Iowa's prettiest parts are worth exploring. Here's a look at some of the most scenic regions in the Hawkeye State.

The Driftless Area: Nature's Untouched Beauty

The Driftless Area, located in northeastern Iowa, stands out for its unique geological features. Unlike the rest of the state, this region was not flattened by glaciers during the last Ice Age, resulting in a landscape of steep hills, deep river valleys, and limestone bluffs. The Mississippi River winds through this area, providing stunning views and abundant recreational opportunities.

Effigy Mounds National Monument is a highlight of the Driftless Area. It showcases ancient Native American mounds shaped like animals. This site offers not only historical significance but also panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, especially during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.

The Loess Hills: A Unique Geological Marvel

Stretching along the western edge of Iowa, the Loess Hills are a rare geological formation composed of wind-deposited silt. This narrow band of rugged terrain offers some of the most striking vistas in the state. The hills are magnificent in the spring when wildflowers bloom, covering the landscape in a colorful carpet.

Visitors can explore the region through the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, a route that provides breathtaking views and access to various parks and preserves. Preparation Canyon State Park and Hitchcock Nature Center are popular spots for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the unique flora and fauna of the region.

The Amana Colonies: A Step Back in Time

Nestled in east-central Iowa, the Amana Colonies are a group of seven villages known for their well-preserved historical charm. Established by German immigrants in the 19th century, these communities are a living museum of heritage and tradition. The area is picturesque, with its quaint brick buildings, lush gardens, and scenic farmlands.

The Amana Colonies offer more than just a visual treat. Visitors can experience traditional crafts, sample delicious homemade foods, and shop for unique handcrafted items. The peaceful and idyllic setting makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely day trip.

The Iowa Great Lakes: A Summer Paradise

In the northwest corner of the state, the Iowa Great Lakes region is a popular destination for summer recreation. This area is home to several large glacial lakes, with West Okoboji Lake and Spirit Lake being the most well-known. The clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife make it a favorite spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Aside from water-based activities like boating, fishing, and swimming, the region also offers beautiful golf courses, bike trails, and amusement parks. The Iowa Great Lakes area combines natural beauty with plenty of entertainment options, making it a top destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Decorah: A Blend of Culture and Natural Beauty

Decorah, located in northeastern Iowa, is a charming town that perfectly blends cultural attractions with natural beauty. It's surrounded by scenic bluffs and the Upper Iowa River, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, and biking. The town itself is known for its Norwegian heritage, which is celebrated through festivals and local museums.

The Decorah Fish Hatchery and Dunning's Spring Park are must-visit sites for nature lovers. The area's vibrant arts scene and local food culture add to its appeal, offering a unique blend of rural charm and cultural richness.

The Mississippi River Corridor: Majestic River Views

The Mississippi River forms Iowa's eastern border, providing some of the most majestic and scenic views in the state. The river corridor is dotted with charming towns, each offering unique perspectives and attractions. Dubuque, one of the oldest cities in Iowa, features historic architecture, beautiful riverfront parks, and the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Traveling along the Great River Road, visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of the river and the lush landscapes that flank it. The drive is exceptionally breathtaking during the autumn months, when the leaves turn vibrant colors.

While Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of scenic beauty, it offers a surprising variety of picturesque landscapes and charming towns. From the unique geological formations of the Loess Hills and the Driftless Area to the tranquil waters of the Iowa Great Lakes and the cultural richness of the Amana Colonies and Decorah, the state is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Iowa's prettiest regions offer something for everyone.

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klaudia2646 · 1 year ago

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Oktoberfest at Amana

#oktoberfest #Amana Colonies #October 2023 #goodtimes

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rasmasandra · 7 months ago

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Traveling Across the USA Iowa

Beautiful Iowa City and Cedar Rapids Two cities in the US state of Iowa Iowa City is located in eastern Iowa. Amana Colonies consisting of seven villages is one of the top tourist attractions, A group of religious Germans founded and built the colonies. Residents who live there occupied themselves with farming and crafting, Today you can tour the village and shop in the craft shops and enjoy…

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programing-nerd · 2 years ago

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Reminded of the time I went to the Amana Colonies over in Iowa and saw this in a shop… good times.

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ourcherokeeinniowa · 1 year ago

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Unwrap the Magic: 7 Best Christmas Getaways in Iowa

As winter blankets the heartland in a glistening coat of snow, Iowa transforms into a festive wonderland, offering enchanting Christmas getaways that capture the spirit of the season. From charming small towns adorned with twinkling lights to festive events that bring communities together, a Christmas getaway in Iowa promises a magical experience for all. In this article, we explore the seven best Christmas getaways in the Hawkeye State, where holiday cheer and festive ambiance abound.

Le Claire - A Rivertown Christmas:

Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Le Claire transforms into a picturesque holiday retreat during the Christmas season. Stroll through the historic downtown adorned with sparkling lights, explore the charming boutiques for unique gifts, and don't miss the annual Tug Fest Christmas Lighted Parade. The waterfront views and festive ambiance make Le Claire a perfect destination for a cozy Christmas escape.

Amana Colonies - Old World Christmas Charm:

Step into a winter wonderland in the Amana Colonies, where the cobblestone streets and historic architecture create a timeless Christmas atmosphere. The Tannenbaum Forest showcases hundreds of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and the Holiday Volksmarch offers a scenic walk through the winter landscape. Experience the Old World charm of Amana as you savor holiday treats and explore the artisan shops.

Dubuque - Dickens of a Christmas:

Dubuque, with its historic charm, hosts a "Dickens of a Christmas" celebration that transports visitors to the Victorian era. The Historic Millwork District transforms into a festive market with carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and seasonal treats. The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens also come alive with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical backdrop for an unforgettable holiday escape.

Pella - Dutch Christmas Traditions:

Experience a touch of Dutch heritage during the holiday season in Pella. Famous for its Tulip Time Festival in spring, Pella's Christmas festivities are equally charming. The town's historic architecture is adorned with traditional Dutch decorations, and the annual Pella Christmas Tour of Homes offers a glimpse into festively decorated residences. The charming town square, adorned with a towering Christmas tree, becomes a hub of holiday activities.

Des Moines - Jolly Holiday Lights and More:

Iowa's capital city, Des Moines, transforms into a winter wonderland with a plethora of festive activities. The "Jolly Holiday Lights" display at Adventureland Resort is a must-see, featuring a magical drive-through light show. The East Village Winter Market, Christkindlmarket, and the Festival of Trees and Lights at the Iowa Events Center offer diverse opportunities to soak in the holiday spirit.

Mason City - Frank Lloyd Wright Christmas:

Mason City, known for its architectural gems designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, adds a unique touch to Christmas celebrations. The Historic Park Inn, designed by Wright himself, hosts a Festival of Trees, showcasing beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The festive ambiance, combined with the city's architectural heritage, creates a Christmas getaway with a touch of sophistication and cultural richness.

Okoboji - Lakeside Holiday Magic:

For a Christmas getaway with a lakeside twist, head to the Okoboji region. The winter wonderland comes alive with the Arctic Open Golf Tournament on the frozen lake, the Winter Games, and the captivating "Wonderful Winterland" holiday light display. Cozy up in lakeside cabins, enjoy winter sports, and partake in the festive events that make Okoboji a unique and unforgettable Christmas destination.

Conclusion:

Iowa, with its charming towns, festive events, and unique holiday traditions, offers a plethora of options for a memorable Christmas getaway. Whether you're seeking the enchantment of a historic riverside town, the charm of a Dutch-inspired Christmas, or the lakeside magic of Okoboji, each destination on this list promises a unique and delightful experience that will leave you with cherished holiday memories for years to come. Pack your bags, bundle up, and unwrap the magic of Christmas in Iowa.

Motel in Iowa

#Hotels in Cherokee IA #Motel in Iowa #hotels near cherokee iowa

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specford59-blog · 1 year ago

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https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XdKOsNF7BC5zj8GTFZPbN6L2Ra-c3FMTaVfstajuURc/edit

Thanksgiving 1972

An Amana Iowa Gathering

My sister Kathleen and her husband drove from Springfield Illinois, my brother Ron and wife from Peoria Illinois, brother Joel and his wife from Omaha and my dad and I arrived from Lincoln. My second brother and his wife were not able to attend as they lived in Ireland and had visited only a few weeks before our mother had died. She was aware of their presence and enjoyed the visit. They were unable to come again for the service or the Thanksgiving gathering in Amana. That November in the Amana Colonies was frigid, and somber gray. Our words must have remained frozen in our thoughts. During the 2 days I don’t recall much if any discussion of my mother’s recent death, following a futile 3-month hospital stay. I don’t recall much of any discussion save for the feeling imparted by the gray weather, and the cutting cold wind that seemed to follow us as we made the rounds to the quaint shops and historic dioramas. 51 years ago, scented candles seemed to be everywhere, and the famed Amana furniture was set out to entice shoppers. I recall one of my brothers making some sort of minor furniture purchase. We had Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant named for the once famous major leaguer Bill Zuber who grew up in Middle Amana. And then the morning after Thanksgiving, we all left to try and pick up our lives.

I had just turned 20 and was in the weeds of Organic chemistry, physics, and Zoology. Somewhere in the foggy weeks between September and November I had managed to take the medical college admissions test and inexplicably must have performed well enough that it would be only 4 weeks later that I’d receive my admission acceptance letter pending of course the completion of the aforesaid courses. I had told my mother, while she was still cognizant that I had decided to submit the test application and to apply for medical school. She was pleased, I think but given the gravity of her illness and the recognition of her what her immediate future held, which we spoke about honestly, understandably she did not make much of a fuss about my decision. She was in retrospect my first and most profound teacher in how to approach living with a fatal illness. The lessons, with some refinement served me well though my career in medicine.

#Thanksgiving #grief

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