Author Archives: Jenny Mummert

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About Jenny Mummert

This blog was originally titled "Drifting Toward Planet Elderly," and it shared a journey I had with my elderly parents as they both went through their later years battling the complexities of dementia. After both passed on, I changed the title to "Living on Planet Elderly." I am a retiree who is reluctantly adjusting to the reality that she is now elderly. In July of 2021, I relocated to Middleton WI after living in Columbia MO for over 40 years. I decided that I want to experience a new and vibrant location in a cooler climate with lakes...a bucket list item of mine. I have a first cousin who lives in Madison. We have nice childhood memories, and I thought it would be wonderful to spend some time together as elders. It was. AND THEN....in March 2023, I returned to Columbia. I had a wonderful time experiencing the Madison area of Wisconsin, spending time with my cousin, and making some wonderful friends. No regrets.

Parental Journal 120 from Planet Elderly: Last Kiss

Posted on March 10, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 (This is the final “Parental Journal” entry for this blog.) On Monday, March 1, I received my last kiss from my mom. It was the first day visitors were allowed to schedule visits again, and I … Continue reading →

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Photography Hobby: Exploring Sunset Scenes

Posted on February 25, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

Friday, February 25, 2021 Beyond my little black deck there are old woods that lead down to Perche Creek. After leaves have fallen, I witness beautiful sunset colors that flow behind bare branches. It can be a spectacular sight, and … Continue reading →

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Remembering a Mentor: Sandy Diamond

Posted on February 15, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

Monday, February 15, 2021 There is something comforting about looking back and remembering others who were instrumental in helping us become the people we are. As we age, many of us seem to spend a bit more time looking back … Continue reading →

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DOWN ON THE FARM: A PIGGY EPISODE

Posted on February 13, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

February 13, 2021 Among my group of gal pals, there is Lynette. Petite, feisty, funny, and compassionate, she is a joy to us all, and we love to hear her stories about growing up in a large family. As today’s … Continue reading →

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Gratitude – The Furry Kind

Posted on February 9, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

February 9, 2021 Guest contributor, Patti Brown, offers a reflection on gratitude. Patti and I have been friends since the early 1980s, and I know that throughout her life she has believed in the practice of taking time to reflect … Continue reading →

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WAITING – a meditative prose poem by Gail Hauswirth

Posted on January 30, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

Saturday, January 30, 2021 (My friend, Gail Hauswirth, gave me permission to share what she refers to as a “musing.”) “Those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall rise up on wings as an eagle. They … Continue reading →

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I Didn’t Want to Die during the Trump Administration

Posted on January 21, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

January 21, 2021 I’m just going to say it: I did not want to die when Donald Trump was in office. Period. I said that flippantly yesterday while watching inauguration festivities, and gal pal, Lynette, sat right up and said, … Continue reading →

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Nostalgic Musings During Political Crisis

Posted on January 16, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

Saturday, January 16, 2021 Like millions of other Americans, I’ve listened to way too much political news and commentary over the past four years. My excuse to friends/family: “It’s history in the making,” or “These are historic times.” Then, on … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 119 from Planet Elderly: Still Can’t See Mom

Posted on January 15, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

Friday, January 15, 2021 It has been a long time since I last saw my Mom. I understand the cautions that must be taken to protect the residents and staff where she lives, but not seeing her has become worrisome. … Continue reading →

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What We Will Not Miss About 2020

Posted on January 9, 2021 by Jenny Mummert

2021 is here and most of us are concerned about witnessing any further acts of far right extremists, ready to get vaccinated, grateful to hear a new president with a vocabulary beyond the fourth grade, and hoping to share hugs … Continue reading →

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