My earliest memories of my father, Charles Dolby, are of him building things. He expanded the house I grew up in and built a lake cottage that we spent time in every summer. He was a city fireman, which meant rushing into burning buildings, and he once broke his foot in the line of duty. He had a kind of quite courage that showed itself most clearly toward the end of his life—when he was forced to endure the debilitating effects of a stroke. As I’ve gotten older, I have appreciated how hard that was on him. Just to stay alive was an act of courage. Thanks, Dad.
All posts by Sandra Dolby
From My Grandmother’s Bookshelf
My paternal grandmother was born on February 13, 1879. I always remembered her birthday as the day between Lincoln’s birthday and Valentine’s Day. She shared many wonderful books with me as I was growing up. This song reflects some images from one of them.
More Peace Somewhere
Losing friends to this pandemic is especially hard. Singing helps me cope. Here is an African American folksong that gives me some solace.