I first met fabulous and free-spirited Fern Hoffer (@fernellen) through Lisa Borden from Borden Communications. (@bordencommunications)
At the time, COVID was in full swing and I got to know Fern online. I was intrigued by her wisdom and kind soul. She generously shared a few words of wisdom that she would tell her teenage self for my book Get Up.
I then re-met, Fern a year later, but our meeting was such a lovely and hilarious one at that.
Several years ago, I stumbled upon Fill A Purse For A Sister Campaign (@fillapurseforasistercampaign). An organization that provides comfort for women in a crisis. They do this by collecting new and gently used purses that are filled with toiletries.
And I wanted to contribute!
The organization directed me to a nearby drop-off location that happened to be down the street from me! And guess who lived there?
Fabulous and free-spirited Fern!
The next thing I knew, I was stuffing a backpack with goodies – I had too many things for a regular purse. Of course, I also had to gift a copy of my book Get Up.

I’ve been waiting for this opportunity to dig a little deeper into Fern’s wise words and ask her about her life and her purpose.
Here we go!
Who is Fern Hoffer?
A lover of life, a keen learner, and a lateral thinker. Each day, I am learning to let go of the things that do not necessarily matter in the long term. This allows me to open my eyes, heart, and soul to absorb more of the magical “Ah ha” moments. I am a never-ending work in progress which I consider a gift to continually be exploring and learning!
I am an involved mother to my wonderful three adult children and love to be a mother to many. A partner to a wonderful and loving husband. I am a daughter, a sister, a cousin, and a friend. A peacemaker, and a problem solver. Even more often than ever before I challenge the “norm” for the betterment of all. (I’ve never been one to shy away when I feel the need to express what matters.) In the process, I invite constructive criticism. It is important that I speak up for what is right, not being afraid to use my voice.
I am a lover of animals, hugs, trees, the sun, island life, cottage life, and star gazing. Mostly all and everything in nature.
A travel and Summer seeker. Dancing, music, art, and cooking are some of the small things that bring me such joy and a higher vibration to me.
I am learning to love and guide my inner little girl and while walking and exploring this path I am immersing myself in more and more practices of well-being for all parts of Fern which in turn affects all those around me.
I believe and have experienced manifestation hand in hand with daily consistent habits as a tool to achieve my dreams. It works and it is work!
What makes you an active citizen?
Supporting initiatives near and far to make the world a better place is important to me. I am actively and happily learning to be even more of a part of the collective to make life a softer and kinder place for all to land. I have always believed that all acts we partake in all day each day, no matter the size matter and make a huge difference to all.
Helping to share and receive knowledge and kindness is also a priority for me. As well, I am constantly finding ways to better myself and am open to learning.
We are all, most definitely, better together.
What are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud and full of gratitude for the three kind and amazing humans I’ve raised along with my husband in a loving and supportive environment. I have taught my children to always be respectful of others and themselves. And they are, as well as full of grace, dignity, and wisdom.
I believe that the next generation will drive the change we need in this world.
I am proud of myself for making many changes in my life despite having a sense of fear instilled into me from a young age. Making great progress from broken generational trauma, allows me to continue to evolve and pass on new legacies to my family and others.
Being kind to myself while no longer considering it selfish. Learning boundaries has been a crucial part of my growth, which has been a long time coming.
What do you consider to be a good friend?
A good friend is someone who you thoroughly enjoy spending time with. You can count on a true friend in both the good times and times of need. You can cry comfortably in each other’s presence and can always speak your truths in confidence. They, too, should be able to feel and share this mutual connection and trust.
Zero judgment and complete transparency are key. There’s never a question of their intentions; they want the best for you, just as you do for them. They are always aligned in their integrity; you can have in-depth conversations. You don’t always have to agree, though you are open to discussion.
It’s okay to cancel plans at times or say no in a respectful manner with good reason.
You can share your accomplishments with them; they are truly happy for you.
A good friend knows when something isn’t right, even if it’s not spoken in words. There’s nothing like having good friends! They are a gift that should be cherished and treated as such!
Let’s unpack your quote: What did you mean by:
“Don’t overthink it – just get into nature, in hindsight, you will always be grateful for it.”
My quote is a spin-off, or a kinder version, of “Just do it.” This means doing things in a free-spirited way with no added stress. Don’t let anything get in the way of committing or allowing yourself to spend time in and with nature.
Get outside, go and do things instead of pondering that decision, as it’s usually always the right thing to do for ourselves!
Have you ever regretted being out there with nature? Perhaps when the mosquitoes or black flies bite a bit too much, though, in most scenarios, it’s the best decision you can make! Get out there, move, and take it all in! We often can spend more time and energy considering an activity rather than just doing it!

Thank you, Fabulous and free-spirited Fern for sharing your wise words with the readers of Get Up. For trusting your intuition, finding your authentic self, and speaking your truth. We need more “Mothers” like you in the world who are generous with their love, patience, and kindness.