It's probably an eight spotted forester moth.
crazy4bugs

Here is a link that might be useful: forester moth

Sounds like a Forester Moth (Alypia sp) from the short description you offered, although I don't know if they have ever been recorded in your state. Records are few, very spotty and widespread for A. octomaculata in the NE for example (and yes, they can have or only appear to have 3 white spots).

Best I can do from your description.

L.

I can add that the 8-spotted forester is commonly mistaken for a butterfly because they fly during the day and they are prettier than a lot of moths. Do you have any grape vines, or Virginia Creeper around? That is a host plant for this moth.

Susan

Yes, It does look like the 8 spotted forester. Gosh you guys are good. But I knew that. I do have grapevines - both wild and cultivated varieties and virginia creeper. I did take a nice picture but it's still in my camera. will post pict later. - kim

Their caterpillars are also pretty. But, I didn't raise any because they have a quirky way of pupating (in holes in wood, etc.).

Caterpillar on Virginia Creeper:

{{gwi:475743}}

Susan

Wow, thank you to all. I sure hope I see it again. And I will check for caterpillars too.

I know I need to post a photo of this moth/butterfly. It was found in Iowa, Council Bluffs. Is tiny, very obvious. There is a photo on my Facebook site under Susan Thomson. Would love an ID for it. It's not an eight spotted forester moth. Wrong shape & color & spots.