An "Epic" Hometown Visit

There is a popular catchphrase floating around Rochester, Minnesota these days.

The traditional definition refers to a long narrative (and sometimes rhyming) poem recounting the deeds of a legendary or historical hero. The more modern use of the word "Epic" refers to something that is outstanding, fabulous or impressive. And with the arrival of Epic Systems Corporation's new electronic medical record (EMR) at my supplemental workplace Mayo Clinic, I added a third definition: It is "Epic" that everything that I need to know about my patient is in the electronic chart ... somewhere!

During my 35 years as a nurse at Mayo Clinic, I have seen quite a bit of change. While I did not have to chart on stone tablets, I do recall "paper charting". When Mayo first converted to an EMR over 20 years ago, I volunteered to become one of the "super users", not because I knew so much about computers, but rather so I could attend the training classes more than once. Seeing the advantages as well as the flaws of the arrival of computers into my medical workplace intrigued me ... and so when Mayo announced that they were converting over to the Epic system, it gave me the desire to come back to learn something new.

Time to teach this old nurse new tricks!

Because of the extra training involved, we decided to stay in Rochester for seven weeks. We divided our time between Autumn Woods RV Park and Chester Woods County Park.

Autumn Woods RV Park caters to Mayo Clinic visitors, and we had the pleasure of getting to know our delightful neighbors and new friends, Mitzi and Dan. Dan was a good "supervisor" as Doug tackled some RV repair projects while I was at work.

Beautiful repair work around the window,
guys! Unfortunately, it still leaks ...

The park has reasonable monthly rates as well as full hook up sites and convenient laundry and shower facilities. Located next to a main highway leading into town, it provided quick access to work ... but also a constant "hum" of traffic.

We began and ended our stay in Rochester at Chester Woods County Park. Located ten miles east of town, Chester Woods campground is set in a beautiful and quiet wooded area with plenty of hiking trails and a lake for summer water activities. It has a more reasonable daily rate, but is a longer drive into town and has a ten day stay limit.

With our plan in place, there was work to be done, friends to visit, and babies to hold ... as we enjoyed every moment of our "Epic" visit to Rochester!

Memorial Day brought out the sun,
Sweet little Daniel provided the fun!

Back at Pax Christi, Doug joined in the song,
Our worship family welcomes us back to where we belong.

We have tried BBQ in the east and in the west,
But Hardy's BBQ (with a bonus visit from our son)
Is simply THE BEST!

Always a feat to be able to gather the crew,
And share stories as old friendships are renewed.

When I was at work making a little money,
Doug tackled that "to do" list that starts with "Honey"!

To reward his hard work, you can't go wrong,
With The Tap House beer list - 50 brews long!

All work and no play would not be good,
So bike rides with friends filled our free time when we could!

June brings Ella's birthday ... so happy we could show up,
Always amazing to see how fast they grow up!

And to celebrate the first year of this precious boy,
Daniel's Dino-mite Birthday brought us all joy!

Senior pictures ... Can it be true?
My dear friend Brittany ... Beautiful in blue!

Gathering to celebrate my niece's grad,
With all my siblings and her very proud dad!

Thursdays on First or concerts in the park,
So many memories with friends left their mark!

For even though far away we roam ...

the smiles,

and visits,

and treats,

and giggles,

and hospitality

of our talented,

and artistic,

and supportive

Epic Hometown Friends

Welcome us home!

Until next time ... celebrate the "epic-ness" around you ... and enjoy adventures in your life!

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