Recently, my brother-in-law Steve's parents came to Natick for a visit. My sister Cathy and Steve have been married for over 33 years and I have known Stan and Sue, Steve's parents, since then. When they came to celebrate their grandsons birthday, we found ourselves gathered around the family table engaged in conversation. Steve had his grandfather's firefighter hat on and this sparked a discussion about his parents. Despite knowing them for as long as I have, there was much about them that I didn't know and they were more than willing to share.

 

The questions came from three generations of family members, with my own parents also present. We were all captivated by Stan and Sue's stories. They shared about their upbringing in the same neighborhood, how they met, the dances they attended, and the fun they had together. Sue's support as a nurse while Stan pursued law school was highlighted, along with their journey of building a home, raising children, and now enjoying grandchildren. They spoke fondly of their parents, and the room was filled with so much warmth and admiration.

 

It was a beautiful moment of connection and discovery. A reminder of the depth of history and love within our family. As we sat together, listening and learning from one another, we were reminded of the power of storytelling and the joy of shared memories. The evening was a celebration of family bonds and the richness that comes from understanding and appreciating each other's journeys.

​

As summer winds down, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the memories we’ve made—and the stories that have shaped our families. This week, I want to encourage you to take a little extra time to talk with your elderly relatives and capture their unique stories. These conversations are not just about preserving family history—they’re about honoring the journeys, wisdom, and humor that make your loved ones truly special.

​

Why Family Stories Matter

When we help clients organize and downsize, we often hear incredible stories behind treasured objects—a recipe card from a grandmother, a photo album from a wedding, or a hand-carved cane. These stories connect generations, provide comfort during transitions, and remind us that our belongings are more than just things; they’re touchstones of a life well-lived.

 

Simple Steps to Capture Family Memories

• Set aside a quiet afternoon to chat with a parent, grandparent, or older friend.

• Ask open-ended questions: “What was your childhood home like?” or “What’s your favorite family tradition?”

• Record the conversation (with their permission) or jot down notes.

• Gather photos and mementos that spark stories, and label them together for future generations.

 

If you’re not sure where to start, try some of these ideas we found on the web:

​

https://www.remento.co/journal/the-7-best-tools-to-capture-and-celebrate-family-memories-stories

​

Check out their 20 questions to ask your parents FREE DOWNLOAD!

​

​

​

​