Remembering Axel - A Tribute

Love Fiercely.

It is with a heavy heart that I sit down to write this mid-week post.

Almost two weeks ago, one of our own, a devoted mother, lover of mother nature and single track trails and beaches and all things bikes, Jen of VeloMom and her husband Randy were told the unthinkable. Their youngest boy was tragically killed.

I have been following Jen and her family's incredible journey since September of last year when they set out across the country with their two kids, travelling from coast to coast and then down south to Mexico. They were living their ultimate dream, their Big Adventure. Travelling, working, exploring and loving life, I lived vicariously, listened intently and admired them deeply.

Live Boldly.

I have never had the pleasure of meeting Jen or her family, but they are my brothers and sisters. The memory of their son lives on in each of us; in every wave that breaks on the shore, in every leaf tickled by the afternoon breeze, in every breathtaking vista we look out upon, we remember you Axel.

Go out today and do something for someone you love; Make their heart sing, make their eyes sparkle, let them know, without a doubt, that you love them.

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If you would like to send a donation, the Charrette Family has set up a Fund that will be used to continue Axel's passion for bike-riding by providing bikes to kids who otherwise wouldn't be able to afford one. You may send checks to:

The Axel Charrette Fund

Alpine Bank

119 Liddell Drive

Ridgway, CO 81432

This post was written in concert with my Outdoor Colleagues, in honor of Axel's memorial service today.

Read my colleague's tributes to Axel here:

Tales of a Mountain Mama

Brave Ski Mom

Kid Project

Big Grey Rocks

Cragmama

Bring The Kids

Mile High Mama

Nature For Kids