June 16,Thursday, West Bend, Iowa

A great night's sleep on thick foam w/ sleeping bag in Honda Element.  Everything worked well: screened windows and window blockers.   Even kept van cool during the day.  It is SOOOO quiet, only the song of birds.  Camp area is mowed lawn grass with free fire wood, WiFi, and just enough shade trees.

Took the free grotto tour which was very informative on the semi precious stones from around the world. Every inch is covered with these stones to make nine separate rooms dedicated to the life of Christ.   Life size statues from Carrara marble in Italy using designs the priest sent them.  Also tons of petrified wood intersperse decor and even create one complete room.  This priest started this in 1912 when he had to use horses to cart items back from Montana, S.D. and  other areas of the country.  Museum of semi precious stones, rock studio and video all available.   Grotto has been valued in the millions of dollars.   Yet I went back at night and everything was lite and museum open with NO ONE there.   http://youtu.be/RlrMYQ6z-Yk   from weird America program.
Campfire and hot dogs tonight!