​Select a photo and provide a story for your family

As 2022 has drawn to a close, it is time to make a decision.

Each week since January, 2019, I have been making an effort to write something about my family. The program I follow sends me a prompt - a word, an idea - and I can go wherever I want with it. Should I continue?

There are blanks. Sometimes, I have a great idea but no time to research it and write the story. Other times inspiration doesn’t strike until much later or not at all.

So where do I go for ideas? While building a family tree for myself or my husband, I learn many interesting facts. I can read diaries, journals and scrapbooks and now old local newspapers.

Now and then, I simply say, “Read this story in Mum’s Life History.” Photo albums are a definite help.

If you have a box of photos, choose one and go to it. Here is an example:



Who? Uncle Wes, Grandpa Pollock’s brother, and Gyp, his sons’ pony. He lived on the family homestead at the corner of Concession A (now Lake Range Drive) and Concession 8, of Huron Township. Grandpa’s farm abutted the homestead.

When? Well, obviously in winter when there was enough snow for a sled. Probably the late ‘20s or early ‘30s. That’s when Rex was the family dog.

Where? In the driveway opposite Grandpa’s house. You can see the corner of the barn and the lane going back to the river.

Why? Maybe Uncle Wes just enjoyed a ride on a fine winter day. Maybe he wanted to discuss some farm or family business with Grandpa. They worked closely together.

How? Fast! Gyp was known for her speed. Tales were told of hanging on for dear life as the sleigh slid and went off in a wide arc when she made the turn into the driveway.

Now, see how these few details provide a story for my family? That’s all it takes. Since my picture box is overflowing, I guess I must persevere.

And you? You can do this too. Think how much your efforts will be appreciated!

December, 2022
Ruth Anne Hollands Robinson