Want to make friends with people from the farms (house, rent)

[Steveli]

Hey, guys!
I am a student from China. I live in Chicago now. I'd like to make some friends who live in small towns of Iowa or farmlands. I like the people grown up in the rural area because I was raised in the coutryside too.
My msn: datian_2001@hotmail.com

[trishinca]

From a native Iowan who loves her heritage, your best chance to get close to the farming community is to start with the churches. Any church. You may still find yourself stared at because you look different from most people they see, but their hearts will be more open, especially if you radiate friendliness. How you meet them is the challenge. You can't just drive up and down the roads and knock on farmhouse doors. Go to livestock auctions,,,,yard sales.... show genuine interest and ask questions. Be like a reporter, friendly but don't cling. Eventually, you may find a family who takes a liking to you....I think it would be like me going to a foreign country and trying to fit in. Being polite and respectful always helps in both situations. Most Iowans appreciate good manners. Good luck! I'm sure you will achieve this goal. I guess you may have to go to a large enough town that has hotels or decent motels, for a place to stay. Some of the smaller towns have nothing like this. They may be just a post office, cafe, and barber shop......and a lot of churches!

[Tek_Freek]

You might surprised at the number of small towns and farms in Illinois, which would make your journeys shorter.