Steem Fest sounds incredible man. Being able to meet other Steem members and witness the culture of Steemit would be a very exciting and wise investment for the long term Steem holder who believes in the platform. The knowledge you could gain from talking Steem and crypto with other members who have been here from the start would be invaluable.
That's awesome that @twistychips preferred to be paid in Steem Power. Just goes to show his belief in Steem. I've only invested a small amount in Steem so far but if it drops down under .60 I will back up the truck. I thought I had missed the opportunity to get in early, but since the market is all out of whack with BTC and BCH right now, I might indeed have that chance.
Hope your mom gets to feeling better man and have a great Saturday with little Sam and the family.