Karen has more details to share about this last trip to Rochester, but just to update you all quickly, things continue to go very well. The doctors are impressed with how quickly they are are seeing results from the chemo. Karen's blood counts are still within normal ranges and she is managing the side effects easily.
The oncologist was able to give us an idea of what to expect from the second round chemo drug (Taxol) and that was encouraging. The meeting with the surgeon went well and more than anything, we are just so appreciative that she is willing to consider Karen's concerns and that she honestly never wants to see Karen there again. One of the few times in one's life when 'I never want to see you again' is a good thing.
Throughout this entire surreal journey, we continue to discover humor in the most unlikely places. While waiting for chemo treatment #3, I would read in the August issue of Rochester magazine that humor could be found August 3-5, just east of Rochester in LaCrescent, MN at the "Crucifixion Summer Fun Fest." I am NOT making this up. SEE!
What I love about this listing of community events is that the following two events are just as hilarious, albeit less shocking. I'm not sure how a Swiss festival is deemed more authentic than any other in the entire western hemisphere, but with offerings like the fahnenschwingen and the "ever-popular sackgumpen" how could Mantorville's Swissfest be challenged?
The oncologist was able to give us an idea of what to expect from the second round chemo drug (Taxol) and that was encouraging. The meeting with the surgeon went well and more than anything, we are just so appreciative that she is willing to consider Karen's concerns and that she honestly never wants to see Karen there again. One of the few times in one's life when 'I never want to see you again' is a good thing.
Throughout this entire surreal journey, we continue to discover humor in the most unlikely places. While waiting for chemo treatment #3, I would read in the August issue of Rochester magazine that humor could be found August 3-5, just east of Rochester in LaCrescent, MN at the "Crucifixion Summer Fun Fest." I am NOT making this up. SEE!
What I love about this listing of community events is that the following two events are just as hilarious, albeit less shocking. I'm not sure how a Swiss festival is deemed more authentic than any other in the entire western hemisphere, but with offerings like the fahnenschwingen and the "ever-popular sackgumpen" how could Mantorville's Swissfest be challenged?As for "Pickle It" Day at Historic Forestville, well, I think a misplaced pickled hen's egg are the least of their worries. This event is a recipe for disaster in my book! Consider the set-up here. 1) Farm staff - typically overworked and underpaid. 2) Farm staff dressed in costumes. 3) Picking vegetables in a costume in August. 4) The public. 5) Acidic kitchen ingredients. 6) Boiling water. Oh yeah, you'll find a pressure cooker there to be sure.
Can I tell you how bummed I am that I missed these gems? Next year, next year.
3 comments:
Yes, Janis, count me in for the summer fun at these not-to-be-missed Southern Minnesota events! Where would we be without our Rochester guide book? Missing out on these fantastic outdoor summer activities!
And thanks for all your help with this blog... it wouldn't be anything without you-
Love, Kare
While you’re on the trail of Minnesota summer events, I thought I’d put a word in about the role University of Minnesota metematicians have played in making such events successful. My Extension department has a training we provide to managers of festivals and events. One of the take-away tools we provide: PORTA-POTTIE CALCULATORS! This calculator uses serious logo-rithm (spelling) - type stuff to help folks determine the number of porta potties to rent. (You have to calculate in the number of event days, people, and expected number of beers to be purchased.) No. Look. This tool helps resolve a serious problem. Don’t want to rent too many of the suckers, because they’re expensive. But if you get too few, people high-tail it away and miss some of the Crucifixion Fun!
It was great seeing everybody on Saturday night. If you’re 40, and you have cancer, why are you amazingly beautiful these days? While no one expects you to be beautiful every day, it sure was fun to see you glowing on Saturday.
Best to all. Great to meet some of you!
Joyce
P.S. The "anonymous" posting may seem weird. It's what I ended up doing to get the blog to accept my post, and I'm DELIGHTED that it worked. For those of you having the trouble I had with passwords and "other", anonymous is the way to go! As long as you identify yourself appropriately. :)
I'll check this regularly, Janis. Thanks for setting it up!
Joyce Hoelting
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