I saw an article in the NYT (free link below) titled “Recording a Family Member is a Gift to Your Future Self” and thought I’d pass it along since many of us may be gathering with relatives this holiday season.
At this time of year I think of my grandparents, my parents and their cousins, people all since gone, and think what a blessing it would have been to be able to hear their stories in their own voices.
I have a couple of Snapchats that I happened to save of my mom explaining some things about her childhood. I can’t tell you how much I treasure not only being able to hear her talk but see her.
Wish I had more. Highly recommend if you have the opportunity.
Not an official recording, but last year when my Mom was digitizing all of our piano/music tapes she got a huge surprise. One year, us kids (ages 5,8,11) made a Xmas present tape to my grandfather. We sang and accompanied ourselves on the piano/guitar. Seems that at end end, he recorded a message about how much he loved it and “it was the best Xmas present in his whole life.” I don’t think I had heard his voice in 25 years. Yes, tears were rolling by us all.
This is definitely a good idea, but I’m afraid it’s too late for H’s parents.
Thank you for the reminder. We need to get some compact VHS tapes transferred. Years ago, our kids interviewed my parents. I know they’d love to hear their grandfather’s voice again.
I got mom talking and D was able to record her reminiscing while we casually talked to her. The quality is not great since it was very casual so it would be inconspicuous on D’s cell phone but at least we have something.
Great idea! Visiting my parents for New Year and will act on this.