Hi Nancy-
I was looking back for an older post and came across your question - and with no replies! I do not live in/near Des Moines anymore but I grew up very near there - about 40 minutes south. It's the heart of the midwest and the people are great, there's lots of churches and community, great shopping and it's just an all around nice little city. I told someone else on the forum one time that I would move back there in a heartbeat if I had the opportunity - but that's the way most people feel about "home". It has the best state fair in the country and it only takes a few minutes to get out in the country - which is beautiful. I think your friend will like it there!
My friend is a neurotic aggressive Jewish New Yawker. LOL! I don't think she's going to last too long, but she needed a job, and this one was good. Thanks for your response.