Farmer John's Dad, Nelson, passed away in September.
Nelson, or as I sometimes called him on the blog "Farmer Pap", was the driving force of the farm. He was born and raised here. He cared for the farm after his father passed away. He helped John and I purchase the farm after we moved back to West Virginia. He cleared brush for the pastures. He drove the tractor during hay season. He gave us the cattle as a wedding present. He plowed the gardens. And he was fiercely proud of the work we were doing and our plans for the farm.
It has been hard to start moving forward again. However, it's been made easier because we are surrounded by memories of him. The farm is brimming with them. Everyday, with every farm project, we will think of him and remember his love for us and this farm.
Thank you for this loving and lovely post. It's a good and important reminder to all of us to appreciate each day we share with family and friends.
ReplyDeleteThat picture of him says it all - he's happy there, hand up and his heart full of pride for the way you and John have taken his love and moved it forward. He would spend hours a day just talking about what all you've done and have yet planned to do. He'd laugh at some of the hard times like the troubles with the bridge. I knew it was because he was remembering all those other "hard times" throughout the years that he'd seen pass. It was only recently that I learned how much, how very connected he was with the farm all those years ... buying stoves, appliances and caring for the farm when others couldn't. I thought he'd retire there - but was glad he didn't make that attempt ... thinking of Mom walking that old bridge loaded down with things was just too much - Dad, well, he'd have driven over but when he couldn't ... So when we found out you two were moving to the farm to begin a farming life, I was happy and content. I've spent the past two months thinking of him and this picture says it all. Please blog on! That's his way of living and it's not a bad one at all. Many stories are left to be written of the lives of the people who love your farm. His tales are now part of the collective story book that you are adding too. Your tale is one of the best reads ever! Please keep your projects on here! Write on! Live on! Celebrate what you two have done - I am! Love you both!
ReplyDeleteMollie, your words are a beautiful description of the love that exists on your farm. Nelson's spirit is perfectly reflected. He was so proud that you two were carrying on the traditions! Thanks, too, Susi and Jim for your lovely words about Nelson. I absolutely agree with your encouragement to Mollie to "Please blog on!" What better way to continue the Jennings deep ties to this important piece of land in West Virginia!
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