Note: It could very well be that things that you remember of your parents or grandparents will not always be favorable. Might I suggest that you not totally divorce yourself from putting s-o-m-e thoughts down on paper. Include those questions that you have about their actions that you felt were NOT in keeping with the accepted normalcy of parenting/grandparenting - even if you know you may never get a real answer. Do remember these are YOUR recollections - your thoughts and you may not have an opportunity again to write so openly about your feelings. What you do with these ultra personal comments is entirely up to you. You may choose to keep them under lock and key. You may find that you will use them as guides to keep the same things from repeating themselves in your family. There are a multitude of actions that you cold take. As you write, if you write, remember that there is something to be said about "getting the weight off your chest". and Note: there will be a series over the next 5 days of questions about your father. As you write, ideas will come to you over and above what is noted here. I would suggest you keep a slip of paper at your side and jot down single word reminders and then when the topics are complete, add to your commentary with the details you can write about using these 'reminders'. REMINDER lists are wonderful tools. You cannot cover all the bases all at one time; you will just interrupt yourself! So instead, jot down those single-word memory triggers and write in detail when you are able. (I have a REMINDER list that never seems to end, it grows with each little 'story' that comes up). Subject: MY very own RECOLLECTIONS - 30/100 1. 2. FATHER -1 - Where did he grow up, what stories did he tell of his youth, was he married before, did he ever talk about that part of his life, did he work outside of the house before he married, what stories do you know about the time of his courtship, how long did they know each other, before they dated, and married, who are his siblings (full names and spouses if you know them), what did he look like, describe him, in your memory at this moment, how do you remember him looking, did he have any scars or birthmarks or extremity losses, does anyone else in the family have any birthmarks similar to hers, do you know the story about his scar? Did he have a tattoo? Using your search engine of choice, with IMAGES, try to locate a photo or two that resembles your father's work dress style and 'dressup' style (perhaps with clothes +1940 or clothes +1930 or clothes +depression). 3. Tell a story about marshmallows. Remember...... Write as you speak.... Be yourself.... Write liberally...... Do not worry about technique.... It is the THOUGHT that counts - or thoughts! Write as if it might be the LAST time you can address the question... 28-30 0