16 Comments
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Aileen Smith's avatar

Jenn, a wonderful birthday tribute to your Mom, she certainly nurtured your love of the outdoors and travel.

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

Unknowingly she did. Back in the day, that is what us kids did - played outside. Thank you for your comments. Much appreciated.

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Ali Lopez's avatar

This is such a a lovely tribute to your mama! And what a gift she has given you in your love for the outdoors and adventure. Thank you for sharing!

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Keith Meyers's avatar

What a sweet remembrance! Definitely got me reflecting on the relationship I had with my Mom who really pushed me to be the best I could be and helped me to recognize the bar set by my grandfather and great-grandfather from the standpoint of having purpose in this life.

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

Nice memory. My grandfathers were both self-made men - my Mom's Dad put himself through medical school by working in the Pennsylvania coal mines and my other grandfather had a lumber mill.

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thank you for sharing the story of your Mother and I really like those haiku in her tribute.

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

Thank you Neil. I am enjoying the creativity of writing these little poems.

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Sarah Lavender Smith's avatar

Lovely haikus at the end!

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

Thank you:)

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Laura Lollar's avatar

What a wonderful tribute to your Mom, Jenn! And it's clear where you got your enthusiasm and energy from!

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

She certainly did have a lot of energy.

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Mike Hahn's avatar

Lovely remembrance, Jenn. Thank you for sharing.

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Brittany Vermeer's avatar

This is so lovely Jenn! A meaningful tribute to your mom. I always wanted to do Girl Scouts, and I didn't know you had horses too! It's funny because equestrian is an endurance sport of its very own!

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

I loved Girl Scouts - introduced me to swimming in mountain lakes and camping under the stars. I missed having horses but someday I hope to get back on a horse.

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Ken Seals's avatar

Thanks for sharing, Jenn. I enjoyed learning more about your upbringing, and your mom's role. My dad, 68, was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and we lost my grandfather to the disease. Your post has me reflecting on time with both of them—thank you!

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Jenn Woltjen's avatar

So sorry to hear about your Dad and your grandfather. 68 is young for sure. Today, there are therapies to help with the disease so I hope that may help him. Each day is special for sure.

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