Thank you my friend. I look for freedom in the guise of another personality. It may be a sign of pathology :) but I actually do feel more brave in my secondary character.
Your point about memory is spot on. What do I remember? What has been reinforced by siblings over the years? Have I seen photos that alter the impression? Yes to all of the above. I think, if something is particularly dramatic, or distinct from what followed, it is easier to separate.
In my case, we moved when I was seven and again when I was eleven. In each case there were dramatic circumstances surrounding the moves so it's easy (rather, given the imperfection of memory) to associate a memory with a time. This memory was in my second house, so I know for certain I was older than seven and younger than eleven.
Thank you very much for your encouragement. Often, we are as free as we choose to be. I hope you are well there and bearing up under the current crypto storm.
Regards,
AG
Edit: To answer your question, how early?
I know by using my method that I recall preschool very well. I had a brother who fell ill when he was nine. 4 1/2 years older than I am. I have clear memories of traipsing through the forest with him. So I guess that takes me back, reliably, to the age of four.
yes, Im fine :). Thank you! This is the answer I was looking for. Still the closest we come to time traveling. I have the impression that creative people often have much earlier memories and more vivid memories.
Have a great week!