Kerry - the Caffeinated Creative

09/10/2026

Been sitting on this one for a bit... revisiting Little Sioux Stems and Jen because her great work, wide selection, and community engagement deserve their own spotlight — not just an event recap.

From the farm-to-table evening a few weeks back to the everyday magic they bring to every arrangement, this is a business that shows up for its community in a big way.

If you haven’t checked them out yet, now’s the time. 🌻

09/07/2026

📍The Grotto of the Redemption — West Bend, Iowa

A quiet kind of awe. Nine grottos, each one carved from stone and stories, holding one of the largest mineral collections in the world — built by hand, one piece at a time, over decades.

Some places you visit. This one stays with you. 🕯️

09/02/2026

Had a great stop at our friends at Rooted Plant + Coffee Shop in Rock Valley — and it was nothing short of amazing!

I’m no stranger to this spot, and I’m always impressed — the drinks are great, and now the food is too.

Worth the stop for a pick-me-up, a date, or just some time on the town. Don’t just take my word for it… check them out. ☕

08/28/2026

📍 Lauridsen Skatepark, Des Moines

Tucked right along the Des Moines riverbank sits the largest open public skatepark in the U.S. — 88,000 sq ft of concrete for every skill level.

All skill levels, all vibes, all welcome. Dope stop on the summer/fall list. 🛹




Lauridsen Skatepark, Catch Des Moines, Skate DSM

08/26/2026

Midweek slump…got my power up. ☕️⚡ Local coffee for the win

(Spencer peeps, yall recognize this downtown spot? 🤪)

08/19/2026

Another stop on my Iowa summer list… 📍Cedar Falls!

Hit an amazing bike trail, then brought the crew back for river surfing at Gateway River Park , great eats at Urban Pie , and good vibes downtown all evening.

Fun time well spent — highly recommend!

Shoutout to CrawDaddy Outdoors for the awesome surfing lesson!

08/15/2026

08/14/2026

A coffee run turned into a song. ☕🎧

Years behind the bar, countless coffee shops on the road, and a lot of notes along the way.

“barista” — demo out everywhere.
Should I finish it… or let it rock as is? 👀

08/12/2026

new barista anthem alert 🚨☕️ out this Friday, everywhere. save this so you don’t forget 🎶

08/10/2026

Some places make you want to slow down and just listen 🎶

Clear Lake’s Music Experience Center is right next to the Surf Ballroom—the site of Buddy Holly’s final show. It’s history you can feel, right in the heart of Iowa.

Add it to your next Clear Lake trip!