Community Life at Prairie Meadows | Kasson, Minnesota

Darlene

Darlene Erickson spent her years as a wife, mother, and community member hostessing many dinners and parties. Since moving to Prairie Meadows, she enjoys helping at socials and happy hours. Her Dare To Dream was to plan a special event.

Every month, the men in our community gather for a special meal. That morning, Darlene helped make a fabulous banana coffee cake from scratch for the men.

As the coffee cake baked, Darlene folded napkins in the shape of roses and planned the table setting. With every rose that Darlene completed, she was in awe.

Later Darlene set the special table for dinner. As a dozen of our men filed into the community room, Darlene was in her element. After the meal, Darlene served her banana coffee cake, which received rave reviews.

The event was a hit! After it was over and everything cleaned up, Darlene said,” Thank you so much for making this day happen. It means so much to me that I could help put on this event.” Her joy and sincerity was evident.

Doris

Doris’ Dare To Dream came true when Evonne Schlobohm, our Community Relations Coordinator, took her to the American legion in Byron, MN to play Saturday afternoon Bingo. When Doris lived in Florida during her younger golden years, she would play Bingo at different organizations at least 3 times a week. It has been many years since she has been able to participate in what Doris calls “serious bingo playing.”

Unfortunately, Doris was not a winner, but Doris said that she had so much fun she did not want the day to end. After Bingo, Doris and Evonne had ice cream from the Dairy Queen and took a drive through Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo in Olmsted County.

Doris loved the drive in the country and had a smile on her face the whole time.

Connie

Connie is a 65-year-old-resident who loves Harley Davidson motorcycles. Connie can hear a Harley coming down the road every time and she lights up like a Christmas tree each time she hears or sees one–she can barely contain her excitement. Connie used to ride with her husband when she was younger, and she loves talking about her experiences on the back of a Harley.

She was a part of a group that used to ride each weekend. Connie will tell stories of riding for fundraisers, riding to see the scenery and mostly just riding for fun! For her Dare To Dream, we reached out to the local HOG motorcycle club chapter and surprised Connie with one more ride. Her excitement was beautiful! Connie giggled like we have never seen. Connie put on the leather jacket and helmet, hopped on the back of a bike and rode While she was on the back of the Harley she never stopped smiling and laughing. Connie’s love for Harley’s is a love like no other, and it was a joy for everyone involved to bring her dream to life.