NextGen Story, like many things in my life, is inspired by my grandmother. And it so happens that many of my recent book projects have been about women: women who were teachers, mothers, trailblazers. They were survivors: learning to use a gas mask in WWII, or sending kids to a Protestant school in Catholic Quebec.
My guess is that you’ve got some of those women in your family, too.
And I hope you’re thinking about how, when, and with what approach you can best help her document her life story.
I am so inspired by the people I have had a chance to work with. If you’re looking for thoughtful, meaningful gift ideas for your mother or your grandmother, here’s a few ideas of what others have done:
Sam published his grandmother’s book as a memoir
Sam’s grandmother wrote the story of her early years in Microsoft Word: after many rounds of editing, careful selection of photographs, and a beautiful custom design - her book was ready just before Mother’s Day this year.
Jackie made a Just a Chapter about a family cabin
The book included quotes from family members and truly captured the peace and connectedness of a favourite holiday destination. Capturing memories of quality family time is one way to celebrate togetherness in a time when we’ve been so distant.
Melanie recorded a special conversation with Nana and 5 grandchildren
For her birthday, Melanie gave her mother the “Nana Project” - two questions from each grandchild for their Nana. I facilitated a Zoom call with Nana and 4 grandchildren to go through half the questions, and then followed up with a one-on-one interview with Nana. It was a great way to facilitate family story-sharing, and a chance to have Nana’s stories recorded for generations to come.
Do these spark a gift idea for a woman in your life? Let me know if I can help.
Sign up for email updates and receive “12 Questions to Spark Reminiscence” - a set of 12 questions designed to get the conversation going with your family.
Photo above: The first book I helped publish and a NextGen Story custom USB case.
Photo below: Box of box, USB, and front cover - 'Just a chapter' book about a family cabin
Kommentare