19560205 Earliest Memory

I took in the whole room. Single bed, white linen, small table on the right side of bed. All viewed from about 4 feet off the floor. I wasn’t floating, I was being carried. Around the bed and to the table, on which was an ink pad and paper. My foot (left, I believe) was lowered to the ink pad and then pressed to the paper.

     Years later (many!) I described this scene to Mom.

     “You were 3 days old. A nurse took your footprint.” She didn’t seem surprised

Footprints were (are still, in many hospitals) recorded for identification purposes. Like hand prints they never change but apparently are easier to read later.

Earliest memories usually start around ages 3-4, and my next memories start at age 4 (a future blog post).

     I have a good friend who shared his memories from the womb. Most would not believe him, but I, like Mom with me, am not surprised.

There are reported cases of “prenatal” or “fetal” memories (google those words).

I suspect they are very rare

My older brother (right) and me. And a puppy!

Sometimes “false” memories can be implanted from viewing old photos or listening to family stories as one grows up.

I have potential false memories of the house and hill in this photo, but I think perhaps the picture planted them in my memory bank (? may never know).

     The house in this picture seems real in my memory, but I cannot be sure.  

      I am sure of the hospital room.

What is your earliest memory? Tell me in the comments. I would love to hear them!