7 Easy Ways to Start Saving Family Stories

Joanna Slan, author of Scrapbook Storytelling, suggest trying:

1. Dig out family albums; wedding albums and baby books. Tape record, video record or record by notetaking family members as you explain the photographs. Save your tape or notes.

2. Tape record or video record family members. Interview each other about what it is like to go through old albums and the memories they bring back.

3. Create “a day in the life of” journal. Ask each family member to talk about their daily routine, from breakfast burritos to bedtime books.

4. Set a timer and go through boxes in the attic, basement, closet or shed. Don’t clean; you are there to explore.

5. Watch old family movies. Take notes on family members’ thoughts and feelings about the movies.

6. Interview grand-parents. Ask them what it was like when they were young. What was life like without a refrigerator, a television, a computer?

7. Share special memories. For example: what was it like the day a baby was born? What was the best family meal in history?