All About My Arrival

Date of Birth:  Dec. 1, 1950

Full Name:  Joseph Ray Carlson, Jr.

City & State:  Burley, Idaho

Were you born in a hospital or at home?  Cassia County Hospital in Burley, Idaho

Was there anything unusual about your birth?  My mother about died having me.  The Dr. told her she probably should not have any more children.    They had called her father to come because of how serious it was.  He was going to speak at a funeral, but he cancelled out to come. 

Who named you?  My parents

Were you named after anyone or does your name have special meaning?   I was named after my father,  he was named Joseph after his grandfather Joseph Smith Adams,  he was named after Joseph Smith by his parents who were converts and had moved to Nauvoo, IL.  My middle name of “Ray” came from my grandfather “Ray” Carlson.

Did/Do you have a nickname?  “Joey”

Are there any stories your family told about when you were a baby?  My folks flew back to Michigan to pick up a new car.  I stayed with Grandpa and Grandma Carlson.   I ended up with a cold and a fever.   They called my parents.    My parents were going to take a small trip and see things on their way home.  Once they thought I was sick,  they drove straight  through to get back home to me. 

What is your very first memory?  Not sure, probably playing with my dog and cat.  We have a picture of it.  I am pulling on the cat’s tail and my dog is pulling on his head.