I LOVE it here!

Location: Sheldon Recreational Trail

Name: Jena Schouten

Residence: Sheldon, IA

What, Who, How or Why attracts you to this place?

The Sheldon Recreational Trail is important to me because it is a place where I can simply soak up God's beatuiful creation while I run, talk on the phone, pray, roller blade, walk, or ride my bike. It's a place of solitude, and yet a place of excitement. On the trail it's common to see people riding bikes, families picnicking, wildflowers blooming, animals grazing in nearby fields, trees rustlling, and birds singing. It's a place where I can begin my day, a place where I can spend my lunch break, and a place where I can watch the sun set as the day comes to a close.

What makes you happy about O'Brien County?

I love the opportunities that O'Brien County has to offer. Whether you are attending school, beginning a career, raising a family, or settling down for retirement, O'Brien County is just the place for that. There are opportunities for people of all ages to learn, grow, and become a part of a community of people who care for one another deeply.

One memory of "touring" O'Brien County

I remember the first time I was introduced to the Dairy Dandy Drive-In was when a friend took me there in high school. I was not raised in O'Brien County, therefore it was truly hard fro me to believe that one place had two of the best things – ice cream and min golf! Today, I still love to take frequent "tours" down old Highway 60 so that I can stop at Dairy Dandy along the way. :)

What did you learn during the COVID-19 Pandemic?

I learned that it's ok to step back, take a deep breath, and slow down. I'm someone who often always wants to be on the go, jumping from one thing to the next. During the pandemic, I was reminded  to enjoy the little things, to valule the relationships around me, and to make the most of each day – each day is a gift!

What is one of your favorite quotes?

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." – 2 Cornithians 4:18