Visiting the Olsens!

Rikke Olsen and my mother grew up in Solvang, California where they and their mothers were very close friends. As a result, my childhood is full of memories of visiting the Olsen home in Owatonna, MN. Now, many years later, I had the priveledge of continuing the relationship by bringing my young family to meet these dear friends.

I have been privileged throughout my life to develop relationships with friends that have known mom most of her life, and who also knew both of my grandparents. The stories of Grandpa Richard never grow old to me. He passed away when mom was in college, and I have always wished I'd been able to know him. I get my red hair and freckles from him, and according to my mom, also many aspects of my personality. Nick could easily have been bored as we talked about our scandinavian heritage and family history. He was a bit overwhelmed at times, but he absorbed it all gracefully and came away understanding even more about Danish heritage and tradition. It may have been a whirlwind trip, but it was well worth it!