Joy in the Heartland
Life-Changing Road Trips Through God’s Healing Fields of South Dakota
Read the inspiring, faith-based non-fiction travel memoir written by retired nurse Lonnette Kelley.
Watch the Joy in the Heartland Screenplay, an adaptation of the book, narrated by Lonnette Kelley.
The Book
This heartwarming, real-life story of two "at-risk” seniors who navigate the isolation and uncertainty of the 2020 global pandemic by embarking on a series of road trips. Seeking healing, peace, and an escape from the era's widespread sadness, Kelley and a close friend cover more than 4,000 miles across the rural landscapes of southeastern South Dakota. Together, they journey through small towns, scenic parks, and local attractions, capturing their experiences through a lens of faith, laughter, and mutual support.
What is the idea around the hearts?
The Documentary
Coming Soon!
Moved by the warmth and beauty of the local communities they encountered, Lonnette launched a unique real-world project tied directly to the book. She gifted a red wooden heart to 51 different communities located within a 50-mile radius of Sioux Falls. Local leaders placed these hearts on historical landmarks, town buildings, or trees to serve as symbols of hope and to encourage travelers to explore the region.
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The story is structured around 10 distinct regional trails (such as the Lake Country Trail) that highlight each small town’s unique traits. Visual photography includes more than 150 of Lonnette’s personal photographs, as well as professional drone footage showcasing local South Dakota landmarks.
Spiritual Reflections blend practical travel guidance with Christian devotionals, encouraging families to slow down, appreciate nature, and gather meaningful memories.
Joy is everywhere...you just need to find it!
Traveling the Trail of Hearts
Don't forget to search for the big red heart hidden in plain sight in each of the towns featured in my book!
Join the hunt & rediscover the Heartland.
These 10" x 10" hearts won't be too hard to spot. You're likely to find them attached to a building, a tree, something of great value or historical interest, or anywhere else that might be considered the heart of the community.
You can see each heart and all 300 photo sites from your car as you drive calmly through city streets, so there is no need for trespassing on private property.
All the photos featured in the book were taken by the author in 2020, with an eye toward selecting various shots that would have longevity. However, in a world that seems to be in a state of constant change, some treasures may disappear over time. In that case, you are welcome to be creative and search for you own unique photo opportunities.
51 travel destinations in the Dakotas
The goal of the book is to bring families together through the joy of travel. It encourages us to avoid thinking solely on ourselves by focusing on the world around us. Our legacy includes the memories we make while traveling with family or loved ones. Your search for the heart and tidbits of information will help introduce you to 51 neighboring towns within a 50-mile radius of Sioux Falls, in southeast South Dakota, and is sure to create a hunger to learn more and understand the blessings and beauty of this wonderful region.
“Adventure isn’t hanging on a rope off the side of a mountain. Adventure is an attitude that we must apply to the day to day obstacles in life.”
-John Amatt–
51 travel destinations in the Dakotas
The goal of the book is to bring families together through the joy of travel. It encourages us to avoid thinking solely on ourselves by focusing on the world around us. Our legacy includes the memories we make while traveling with family or loved ones. Your search for the heart and tidbits of information will help introduce you to 51 neighboring towns within a 50-mile radius of Sioux Falls, in southeast South Dakota, and is sure to create a hunger to learn more and understand the blessings and beauty of this wonderful region.
“Adventure isn’t hanging on a rope off the side of a mountain. Adventure is an attitude that we must apply to the day to day obstacles in life.”
-John Amatt–
Traveling the Dakotas
Sioux Falls and the Dakotas give Lonnette Kelley an experience of spiritual healing that she wants to share with the world. Join the traveling duo in Joy in the Heartland on their quest for connection with nature. You'll be surprised at the journey this book takes you on.
In a darkened world, Lonnette was able to find joy– and you can too!
Read what people are saying...
Mark Houser, Singer-Songwriter, says:
“…I would recommend this book and taking the time to enjoy these trails. Sometimes we all need to take a breath and just get out and enjoy this beautiful country…”
PJ Clark, Artist, Author & Speaker says:
“…I highly recommend her book as she expresses so beautifully from her own heart, through the eyes of faith, her love for America…”
Kris, Brandon, South Dakota, says:
“…I highly recommend this book as an energizing guide to discovering little-known information about southeastern South Dakota, bringing it like a lighthouse to a dark world. Lonnette's story also demonstrates the redemptive power of faith and the ability to seek joy in all circumstances.”
