Jenna Nienhuis

nature writer | artist | mother

  • A Trip in Conversation

    A Trip in Conversation

    “I don’t know anyone else who would do what you’re doing,” said my sister. “Yeah because they’re smart!” I replied.  “Bon courage!” texted my supportive friend, Annelise.  “Will you be traveling alone…just you?” asked the Virgin Airlines agent, unaware of the tears behind my eyes.  “Coffee or tea?” inquired the British flight attendant. What a… Continue reading

  • First Impressions

    First Impressions

    When I first saw her she was all stick and bones. Her thin trunk, merely the keeper of weathered branches. Had she just lost everything or was she just about to bloom? I couldn’t see her whole story, I just knew she had one. She didn’t seem worried, confident it was just a season; fruitful… Continue reading

  • On the Way to Painswick

    On the Way to Painswick

    Dave leaned against the weathered, wooden gate, his mannerisms gruff like his beard and earth-stained clothing. He appeared as much a part of the landscape as the sycamore trees and worn paths of the Cotswold countryside. His DNA made of the dirt under his fingernails. As we stumbled upon his stall from the adjacent road,… Continue reading

  • Ode to the Early Years

    Ode to the Early Years

    I wish I could bottle up the scent of grapefruit blossoms to remind you of the Seed School days. “Good morning!” you were greeted with a warm smile No shoes…no worries. The squeaks and squeals of free-range children and chickens melding into Elizabeth Mitchell melodies. Bubble magic was only the beginning of where you might… Continue reading