The older I get, it truly bothers me that I never asked any of my grandparents to write their life memories down for me or that I didn’t ask them questions “interview style” and jot them down while they talked. I was younger, though, when my maternal grandparents passed and quite frankly, I wasn’t thinking about how important their life experiences would be to me and how much I would crave to read about their past memories now.
Since I had been having these regrets for a while now, I decided to purchase a little memory book for my parents. Now, keep in mind that your loved ones do not have to be writers to enjoy this type of gift. You may be surprised at how much they have to say and after speaking with my parents during their journaling process, they both said that they couldn’t believe how many memories popped-up that they had forgotten about. The neat part is that you can purchase these books with a question on each page to help nudge your memory and even though I am not yet in my retirement years, I bought one for myself to start, as well.
If you aren’t comfortable writing out your memories, consider making a video where you talk about your past and what regrets you may have or what decisions you are proud of and would never change. Don’t be afraid to speak the truth or feel that what you are saying is silly. Trust me, your family would never think that as they read your life story.
Think about it the next time you are missing a loved one who has passed. How much would you give to sit down and read their words right now as if they were speaking directly to you?
A cousin of mine had the right idea. He taped an interview with my maternal grandmother when she was in her 80’s. After she passed on he sent copies to all of our family. It is a most valued tape! In keeping with this idea I made scrap books for both of my kids Adult kids, ages 31 24. The scrap books are ALL about me. My life ,mile stones. My beliefs,interests,Likes and dislikes.I included many photos. Both books are unique and tailored to each child.and our relationship. I enjoyed making these and they took to the idea too,showing the books to friends etc. I would like to pass this idea on.
Wow, Donna…I can’t believe that you did that for both of your kids…you know how we all say we’re going to do it, but then don’t always follow through 🙂 Your kids are so lucky that you did that 🙂 I love hearing stories like that! Thanks for sharing your ideas!
I use to write a travel journal and take photos, transferring them to an album.
Now the trips are shorter, I write a a blog for each trip and put an album on my Facebook page.
I also intend to one day create a large family album.
Facebook is such a great way to store and share photos. I love how the digital world now works to save us from so much clutter. I have boxes of old print photo albums. I’m so glad now I just keep them on my computer or online.
Thanks for the advice
Photographs are taken in the present, to be looked at in the future, to remember the past.
Ah memories. So priceless! Is there anything more valuable in life, especially as we get older ??
Great post !
Great suggestions
I always make picture calendars for grandparents for Christmas gifts, they LOVE them !
I have been a journaler for years and also do some scrapbooking. I have a ‘memory drawer’ in my dresser taht holds lots of memories.