Christmas In August

Of course you’re thinking of Christmas gifts. Aren’t you? Well, I don’t usually, but this year I am because I want to tell you about a wonderful idea for a gift to your family, but this one you have to start early.

Present them with a family memoir. A memoir is like a biography or autobiography. It’s a way to be remembered, to honor your experiences, and to pass along your reflections. It’s a way for family members to get to know their siblings and their ancestors.

I had an opportunity to live with my maternal grandmother for a short time just before she passed away. She was anxious to talk and she was probably thinking a lot about her youth. I regret, now, that I wasn’t more attentive to her and asked her more probing questions. I wish I had recorded what she had to say.

The same is true of my mother and of the many members of the rest of my family.

So for Christmas this year, why not give a gift that the whole family can enjoy for generations? Give the gift of memories. Read more