I have rarely been this excited to share a birthday gift with a loved one. Now you get a sneak peek early, so mum's the word! The beauty too, is that my creation of this gift has gifted me moments of joyful interludes within this difficult world we are all part of. And while those … Continue reading How Family History Inspires Storytelling for Kids
Long Beach Peninsula
Land Ownership: From Land Claims to High Water Marks
In 1864 my third great grandparents were sent the land deed for their Oregon property. All 640 acres, officially divided between Chloe Clark Willson and William Holden Willson at today's Salem's State Street. William died in 1856, and never saw the official document signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Although I've written about this here and … Continue reading Land Ownership: From Land Claims to High Water Marks
Ode to my baby brother
August 1965 aboard the Willamette Chief on the Willamette River. I wanted to swim off the bow like my older brothers but was appeased holding my new baby brother. My relationship with my four brothers as their only sister informs my writing. My Music Man includes childhood memories (like brothers making me a dog food … Continue reading Ode to my baby brother