Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Grandpa Wilson

My Dad's dad, was Russel George Wilson. He was born Christmas day, 1911 in Kimberly, Idaho. Here are some early pictures of Grandpa. I learned some fun things about this man that I didn't know before. When I knew him, he was very quiet, often grouchy, fought his way through cancer, and eventually died on 3 December, 1986 in Twin Falls, Idaho.

I do remember he had a small motorcycle, and would take turns taking me and my siblings on rides around "town" on it. I loved it!



Ila is my Grandma Wilson, Russel's wife.



Grandpa was a sheep herder before he married Grandma. It must have been a long and lonely job. He wrote some poetry while he was out there. I'll share that next time.

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Portrait Pedigree

I know the individual images are pretty small here, but its a start. Eventually I will show each image seperately with more detailed information.


Turning our Hearts

A few years ago I took a trip with my roommate to Idaho to visit my Grandma. As we were chatting, she began talking about some of her past and her memories. My roommate wisely advised me to buy a digital recorder and get an oral history from her. I did. It opened up a new world for me. A world in which my family stretches beyond who I see and know here and now.

Following my visit with my Grandma, I visited my aunt, and then my great-aunt and uncle. I found pictures, head stones, stories, memories - most importantly I found my family. And now I'm reaching back to find even more.