Country experience! You will hear barking dogs, hungry calves, lonely goats and cat's purring. You will also hear real living; family laughing around a backyard bonfire, kids playing an animated game, trying out new recipes, sampling Rosie's "squeaky" cheese from Wisconsin, and getting information on little-known local action. The family that was there when I arrived spent time at Goldrush Days in Oronoco. My husband and I were surprised how much we learned and the memories we shared at the SPAM Museum in Austin (NOT about email). The town highlights local eateries that feature SPAM on their menu, including Culver's, which serves a delicious SPAMburger. Another guest steered us toward Cannon Falls for an awesome local diner breakfast at Erik's, topped off with fresh peach pie and cobbler. The countryside is beautiful, and perfect for my passion for adventuring.
You are minutes away from the big city, and just as close to corn fields as far as you can see. I found a quaint little place called Zumbro Falls. The owner of the local gas station/campground/hotel asked if I was lost. "I'm not lost. I know exactly where I am, but I could use some help getting back, as I have no idea how I got here." On this adventure, I loved the beautiful farms and variety of landscape. Beautiful river valleys, 'hills' that made my ears pop, winding roads, and cute random villages and towns.
My trip to Rochester was centered around scary health issues. The Mayo Clinic is an excellent system, thorough and personal. We were struck by the consistency of care and concern from everyone there, from those who greet you, valet, wheelchair escort, volunteer at information desks, staff who make contact with random people who look lost or confused, people at the check-in desks, nurses, medical assistants, and other medical professionals and doctors, as well as veteran patients willing to share tips to navigate the Mayo subway.
I never felt like I was less than a full partner in each of the specialty teams involved in diagnosing and developing plans of immediate and future care.
That said, you are also not far from emotional and spiritual healing. Rosie's property allowed for quiet reflection as well as the healing that only fresh air and sunshine can provide.
I'll definitely stay here again, when in town for follow-up clinics and evaluations.
