|
|
|
 |
Nature’s Rural Retreat began as a home for newlyweds, Nile and Ruth Rupe, in 1932. They engaged in farming and ranching there for over sixty years and raised their four children. During the summer of 2007, their son, Randy, who is also engaged in agriculture, and his wife, Cathy, who had just retired after 23 years as a librarian/teacher, decided to begin a new adventure. With help from friends, they completely restored the home as a retreat for hunters, nature lovers, and families. This quiet, naturally decorated bungalow allows complete privacy and schedule flexibility for six to seven people in three bedrooms. The master bedroom is furnished with its original double bedroom set. Another bedroom is furnished with a single bed, a bookshelf filled with reading materials and games, and manual toys for little people. The bunkroom allows four people to sleep comfortably on extra long twin beds. All of the bedrooms have fire escape windows for safety. The kitchen is fully equipped for meals and has some freezer space available. The living/dining area is furnished comfortably and has a corn burning stove for extra heat and a warm fire. In this room, guests may also access the Internet and watch Direct TV. For a large family sleepover, there is enough room for several sleeping bags (extra pillows and comforters are available). A large, enclosed back porch offers laundry facilities, a writing corner, and blooming geraniums during the winter months, as well as, places for muddy boots, heavy coats, overalls, etc. and maybe a few more sleeping bags. The front porch allows guests to relax on wicker furniture while allowing dinner to cook on the grill. From this porch, a priceless sunrise can be watched, birds can be heard singing, and prairie scenes can be viewed.
The large farm yard has been landscaped with 1932, water conservation, and wildlife in mind. It includes a barn, an outbuilding, a windmill and several large, climbing trees which are in the process of being restored. A buffalo grass lawn is being established, taller native grasses and prairie wildflowers have been planted to attract butterflies and birds, a natural fence line of elderberry bushes has been planted to add privacy and attract small wild animals, and fruit and shade trees and native scrubs have been planted and pruned to provide protection from severe weather and attract wildlife. Bird houses and wildlife feeders have been located to allow increased viewing for human guests. Outdoor entertainment areas have been developed and include comfortable seating, playing, and cooking areas. All of these adaptations and restorations have been made with hunters, nature lovers, and families in mind.
|
|
|