My Folks, June 27
My parents have supported me over the years in every endeavor that I attempted to accomplish. Whether it was remodeling our first home or second one, they were there to hang sheetrock or build a stone wall. This is not to mention helping babysit their grandchildren while I completed a PhD and traveled all over the country for various restoration projects. Many times they accompanied me on so that I would not be separated from the kids for very long.
They were both very excited to join me in Santa Fe for the book signing last Sunday. Although travel has become increasing difficult over the past few years, they hopped on a plane and headed to New Mexico, arriving on June 21.
Unfortunately, the altitude was an extremely difficult adjustment for my mother, coming from an area 830 feet above sea level and trying to adjust to more than 7000 feet above sea level. My father-in-law, John Menzel, also found it difficult to manage high elevations about fifteen years ago. He had climbed mountains all of his life, visiting the highest point in every state after immigrating from French Switzerland. In his 80s, he was unable to handle the high altitudes. My own father, seemed to adjust to the higher elevations with only mild fatigue, so he was able to join his grandson on many of the scenic hikes.
For those who have never experienced altitude sickness, please keep in mind that the symptoms may include dizziness, headache, shortness of breath, chest pain, disorientation, confusion, nausea, extreme fatigue and sleeplessness. My mother did fair until after the book signing on June 24. Although we took my dad on one more excursion today, venturing to the Tsunkawi Ruins and Overlook Park in White Rock, we returned to find my mother in physical distress. The remainder of the day was spent preparing for an immediate return to Albuquerque’s lower elevation after a visit to urgent care. The difference in her wellbeing after dropping the 2000 feet to Albuquerque was immediately apparent. They both return to Minneapolis today, but it meant so much having them here.
To be continued…
