Labor Day: The “Real” New Year?

/in /by

For me, and for many others, the new year truly starts with Labor Day. It’s the time of year when the energy shifts—summer winds down, teachers and kids head back to school, and we return to our routines with renewed focus. Just like the traditional back-to-school photos that fill social media, this season signals a fresh start not only for students but for adults as well.

Labor Day weekend is the launching pad for new beginnings—whether it’s diving into creative projects, setting personal goals, or expanding professional horizons. This transitional time of the year is rich with potential. We often think of January as the time to make resolutions, but for me September holds that same promise of fresh beginnings. I use this time to dive into my own “new year.” It’s when I review projects, recalibrate goals, and begin fresh initiatives.

This is also a juncture where we can pause and reflect: What have we accomplished so far this year? What do we want to achieve before it ends? Just as students step into new classrooms and begin new lessons, we too can start new chapters in our personal and professional lives. Perhaps it is launching a new project, refocusing on health and wellness, or setting our sights on long-held dreams that were on the back burner.

Labor Day weekend really is a great time to reflect, regroup, and step forward into our own new year full of possibilities. Labor Day isn’t just a holiday from work and school—it’s a moment for reinvention. Let’s embrace it!

Summer Video Time Capsule: Connecting Generations Through Fun Questions

/in , /by

Summer is the perfect time for families to come together and create lasting memories. This year, why not add a fun and interactive twist to your gatherings with a Video Time Capsule project? Imagine sitting around the picnic table or campfire, not just sharing stories but capturing them for future generations. 

One engaging way to do this is by setting up a talk show-style game where everyone participates in answering easy questions about the family’s history and traditions. While you play, this actually becomes a perfect time to record on video (via smartphone or tablet) the answers to be preserved as a memory and for posterity. 

Begin by asking questions that highlight generational differences. For example, “What kind of phone did you have as a child?” might yield answers like rotary phones, touch tone phones, and smartphones, showcasing how technology has evolved. This can lead to fun conversations about how old technology worked or how older generations might have a harder time adapting to new technology. It’s a delightful way to learn about each other and open up communication across generations.

For this game everyone writes their answers on their own sheet of paper. Once everyone is ready, they reveal their answers at the same time. That way you get a snapshot of the different experiences and can discuss them, adding a layer of fun (likely some laughs!) and learning.

P.S. We would love to hear from you!!!  After you do this Video Time Capsule, kindly reach out to Iris (email/phone/text) to share how the experience was for your family.

VIDEO TIME CAPSULE QUESTIONS

For your convenience, you can download the Summer Video Time Capsule Questions PDF and print to use as a script while you record. Most of all, have FUN!

Here are 20 questions to get started

    • What kind of phone did you have as a child?
    • What was your favorite way to listen to music?
    • How did you watch movies at home?
    • What was your first gaming console?
    • What kind of camera did your family use for photos?
    • How did you communicate with friends in elementary school?
    • What was your favorite playground activity?
    • What was a popular snack when you were a kid?
    • What did you use to write school assignments?
    • What was a common family outing?
    • How did you research for school projects?
    • What was your favorite TV show?
    • What type of transportation did you use to get to school?
    • What was a popular toy or game?
    • What was your favorite holiday activity?
    • What was your first pet?

If the youngest participants are old enough

    • How did you keep track of appointments and events?
    • What was your first job?
    • How did you find out the latest news?
    • How did you store and share family photos?

In Honor of Fatherhood: A Meaningful Father’s Day Gift – A Video Experience

/in , /by

Father’s Day is a special occasion that occurs one day a year to honor and appreciate the fathers in our lives. For many of us, our fathers are our “North Stars” guiding us through life with their steadfast support and enduring presence. In my case, my beloved Dad was my “rock” throughout my life, up until his 90’s when he passed. I miss him dearly every day.

While gifts and cards are lovely on Father’s Day, creating a video that captures your father’s wisdom, experiences and love, can be an even more meaningful gift for you to share. All you need is a smartphone and a list of tailored questions to ask your father, which you can find in the blog post.

One of my most cherished possessions is the biographical video interview I did with him over 20 years ago, where I captured all of his life stories and life wisdom. 

Little boy, his father and grandfather lying on bed with smartphones

A homemade video serves not only as a precious keepsake but also as a gift of quality time spent together, deepening bonds and fostering open, heartfelt conversations. It will preserve your father’s voice and expressions and capture his stories and emotions. It’s a dynamic way to document his legacy, allowing future generations when they see it to connect with his personality, values and wisdom in a way that written words alone cannot achieve.

To make the most out of this production, questions should be tailored to the age of the person asking them. This approach ensures that the conversation is engaging and the questions are appropriate, whether they are asked by a young child or an adult. 

Once the video is complete, share the final production with your family and back it up to keep copies safe for future generations to enjoy.

Best Father’s Day wishes to all the exceptional Dads!

 

Questions to Ask Dad on Father’s Day

 

Here are questions to get you started, sorted by age. For your convenience, you can download the Questions to Ask Dad on Father’s Day PDF and print to use as a script while you record. Most of all, have FUN!

For Young Children:

    • How did you feel when you found out you were going to be a dad?
    • What is your favorite memory of me as a baby?
    • What is the funniest thing I’ve done so far?
    • What was the most surprising thing about becoming my dad?
    • What do you hope I remember about my early years?
    • What is your favorite activity to do with me right now?
    • What have you learned about yourself since becoming my dad?

For Elementary School Children:

    • What’s your favorite story to read to me?
    • What school activity or event are you most proud of me for?
    • How do you encourage my curiosity and learning?
    • What advice do you give me about making friends?
    • What’s your favorite game or sport to play with me?
    • What lesson do you hope I learn during elementary school?
    • What family tradition do you enjoy most with me?
    • How do you handle challenges or conflicts with me?

For Middle School Children:

    • What’s the biggest change you’ve noticed in me during middle school?
    • How do you support my growing independence?
    • What do you admire most about my personality?
    • What advice do you have for me about handling peer pressure?
    • What hobbies or interests do we share?
    • How do you help me balance school, activities, and relaxation?
    • What’s the most important value you want me to remember?
    • What’s your favorite memory of us from when I was younger?

For High School Children:

    • What were you like in high school?
    • What’s the most important advice you have for my future?
    • How do you support my goals and dreams?
    • What’s your favorite memory of us from my childhood?
    • What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as my parent?
    • What qualities do you think are most important for me to develop?
    • How do you feel about me becoming more independent?
    • What life lessons do you want me to carry into adulthood?

For Adult Children:

    • What was your proudest moment as my father?
    • How did becoming a father change you?
    • What advice do you have for me as I navigate adulthood?
    • What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned from being a parent?
    • What’s your favorite memory of us together?
    • What values do you hope I continue to uphold?
    • How do you want to be remembered by your grandchildren?
    • What’s one thing you wish you had known when you were my age?

For Adult Children Who Are Fathers Themselves:

    • What advice do you have for me now that I’m a father too?
    • What was the biggest challenge you faced raising me?
    • How did you balance work and family life?
    • What are your favorite memories of raising me?
    • How did you approach discipline and guidance with me?
    • What’s the most important lesson you want me to pass on to my children?
    • How do you see fatherhood changing across generations?
    • What are you most proud of in your journey as a father and now a grandfather?

 

Our Mothers: Bless them all!

/in , /by

Today would be my beloved Mom Shirley Wagner’s birthday. I dedicate this blog in memory of her. 

 

As Mother’s Day approaches this year, it is a perfect time to reflect on the profound impact our mothers have had on our lives. From nurturing us in our earliest days to guiding us through life’s challenges, their influence is undeniable. Mothers are unparalleled in their ability to offer unconditional love and care. From the moment we arrive, they embrace us with tenderness and support, guiding us through life’s ups and downs.

Mothers play a pivotal role in shaping our values and beliefs through both their actions and teachings during our formative years. From the simple act of leading by example to more deliberate conversations, they instill in us the principles that guide our decisions and interactions with the world.

Reflecting on our own experiences with our mothers, memories flood our minds. Whether it’s the comforting embrace during a difficult time or the gentle guidance through life’s uncertainties, their presence has been a constant source of strength and reassurance.

I lost my beloved Mother a few years ago, and still miss her and think of her each and every day. She was an amazing Mom all my life, but especially in our adult-adult relationship– she was my very best friend. The life wisdom she imparted to me still guides me to this day. She was one very special woman and I am so grateful that she was my Mom! 

Expressing gratitude to our mothers is not only important but essential. They have dedicated their lives to nurturing, supporting, and guiding us, often making countless sacrifices along the way. On Mother’s Day, consider meaningful gestures to demonstrate your gratitude. Whether it’s a heartfelt letter or a poem, a thoughtful gift, or simply spending quality time together, the key is to make it personal and heartfelt.

As Mother’s Day approaches, let’s take time to reflect on and appreciate the indispensable role of our own mothers. For those whose mothers are no longer with us, let’s cherish their memory and the lasting impact they’ve had on our lives. Whether through fond memories, cherished traditions, or quiet moments of reflection, let’s honor their legacy and express gratitude for the love and support they provided.

We love you Moms! Happy Birthday Shirley! 

Happy, Healthy wishes to all Mothers on Mother’s Day 2024! 

Enhancing Personal Connection: The Power of Face-to-Face and Voice-to-Voice Interaction

/in /by

This blog is “Part Two” to our last month’s blog- “Talk! Don’t Text: Strengthening Intergenerational Bonds Through Conversation,” on the subject of fostering meaningful family connections. In today’s fast-paced digital world, text messages dominate as a mode of communication and personal connection frequently gets lost. The importance of refraining from using texting as the main means of communication, is of paramount importance during these stressful times.

 

Prioritizing Face-to-Face Communication

When comparing face-to-face communication with text messaging, the differences are profound. Non-verbal cues like facial expressions, emotional reactions of laughter and/or sighing are all examples of body language and voice that can add layers of meaning to interactions. Those cues help foster emotional understanding and build trust. These emotional cues are not available via texting. The irreplaceable value of in-person connection that can aid in deepening love and respect, especially between generations of family members is clearly missing.

At the heart of building personal connection lies storytelling. Whether sharing family lore of the past or planning of future adventures, storytelling weaves a tapestry of experiences and emotions that are shared. These narratives foster empathy and strengthen the bonds that bind family members together.

Picture the warmth in your grandmother’s voice as she shares a childhood memory, or the twinkle in your father’s eye as he recounts an adventure from his youth. These moments breathe life into family relationships, forging bonds that transcend time and distance. Even deep family values can be viewed from that lens. 

And then there are the times of togetherness, the shared laughter around the dinner table or the quiet moments spent watching the sunset. Those are the memories that linger long after the moment has passed.

While text messaging has its place in our day-to-day lives, it can never substitute for the meaningful connections only in-person interactions can create. Even when proximity does not allow for physical presence, technology can bridge the gap through video or audio chat features, enabling loved ones to connect more deeply.

Thank you for joining us on this journey of exploration and discovery. Together, let’s embrace the power of personal connection and celebrate the richness of face-to-face and voice-to-voice interaction. Please…take some time to talk to your parents and grandparents!

Talk! Don’t Text: Strengthening Intergenerational Bonds Through Conversation

/in /by

In today’s fast-paced digital age, communication often revolves around text messages, emails, and social media interactions. While these methods offer convenience for the generations that were born with it, and some elders who have become used to it, they all lack the depth and intimacy found in verbal communication. While text messages convey small bits of information efficiently, they often lack the ability to convey stories effectively. 

In my opinion, there is nothing that beats a heartfelt phone/video call between a grandparent and a grandchild. 

Family stories are precious lore passed down from one generation to the next and are best shared in person. However, when this is not possible due to time or distance constraints, video or voice calls serve as the next best choice. Voice conversations bring stories to life allowing family members to share anecdotes. The emotional resonance that comes from reminiscing about shared experiences, and with passing down oral traditions, will result in strengthening family bonds and identity.

Voice calls enable the listener to ask follow-up questions, delve deeper into experiences, or pivot to other topics, fostering meaningful interactions. To share laughter (or a tear)  on a voice call with a loved one will always be very meaningful!

Consider reaching out to a family member today to share one of your life’s stories. Here’s a suggestion: if you’d like to engage with someone from a younger generation who may not pick up their phone to answer a call, try sending them a voice memo with a family story! It can be a simple yet effective way to spark meaningful conversations and strengthen connections with your loved ones. And hopefully – they will likely listen to and save it!

Navigating Life’s Journey: The Impact of Mentorship

/in /by

When we look back on the story and experiences of our life, it is important to recognize and applaud the influence of those who helped shape it. January, celebrated as Mentorship Month, offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the role mentors play in inspiring transformation in both our personal and professional lives. 

Mentoring, an age-old practice, continues to be a vital part of growth and development in various facets of life. It’s more than just guidance; it’s a symbiotic relationship where both mentor and mentee grow, learn, and benefit. The essence of this relationship lies in the transfer of knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Mentors, with their wealth of experience, offer guidance to navigate challenges, whether they be in a professional setting, academics, or personal growth. Their advice can serve as a compass, helping mentees steer in the right direction, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed decisions. As Steven Spielberg said, “The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves.”

Since I founded Memoirs Productions 24 years ago, I have been fortunate to mentor numerous personal historians along with family office advisors who have crossed my path and who are trying to include legacy preservation in their work. All these interactions have been memorable, as I have learned (almost) as much from them as they have learned from me. In addition, it has been very rewarding for me to see them succeed. 

Recognizing and appreciating mentors is important. Mentorship Month serves as a reminder to express gratitude to those who have guided us. A simple thank you (note/email/phone call), sharing success stories, or acknowledging their influence in our journey can mean a lot to mentors. It is also an opportunity for us to “pay it forward” by mentoring others, thereby continuing the cycle of growth and development for others.

We should all consider becoming mentors. It is giving work where we can contribute to a culture of learning, sharing, and growth that benefits individuals and communities. Mentorship is not just about helping mentees build a brighter future. It is also about creating a more knowledgeable, empathetic, and connected world.

Grandmother and grand-daughter

Unlocking Conversational Treasures: The Grandparent-Grandchild “Ask Me Anything”

/in , /by

In the tapestry of life, there’s a unique thread woven with laughter, wisdom, and endless love—the bond between grandparents and grandchildren. This relationship, often described as one of life’s greatest treasures, holds the key to a wealth of untold stories and valuable lessons shared. It’s the connection that transcends generations, nurturing the roots of our family tree.

But have you ever considered asking your grandchildren to interview you? Akin to conducting an “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) session with a real-life sage—you.

In today’s fast-paced world, where the answers to any question are often just a click away, the art of conversing — even with grandparents — sometimes takes a back seat. However, there’s magic in those conversations that cannot be replicated by searching online.

We recently directed and recorded an AMA interview session between a 70+ year old client and his young adult 20+ year old grandchild. My crew and I were all moved by the profound impact of the experience, as we watched it unfold for them. As they embarked on their AMA journey, we discovered an even deeper connection and a newfound appreciation that was evident for each other.

Grandmother and grand-daughter

The questions asked were not just about the past but also about aspirations, dreams, life lessons and hopes for the future. The result? An amazing recorded video conversation – originally intended to be 30-40 minutes, ended up being close to 90 minutes– and it all felt like 5 minutes! The discussions, touching moments, and even shared laughter left an indelible mark on both of them, as they told me afterwards. And without any prompting from me– the grandchild declared how grateful he was to now have this legacy video as something to show his grandchildren one day!

So, dear grandparents, consider this: seize the opportunity to invite your grandchildren to embark on their own “Ask Me Anything” adventure with you. Let the magic of storytelling and shared experiences bridge the generational gap. Encourage them to capture these precious moments using their smartphone cameras, for in the years to come, these recordings will be cherished heirlooms (as long as they remember to back them up)!

In a world of constant change, the bond between grandparents and grandchildren remains a steadfast anchor. It’s a timeless connection that only grows richer with each shared story. Embrace the unique opportunity to have your grandchildren ask you about your life, for your words are more than answers—they are the keys to understanding your family’s legacy.

AFTER LIFE: The Enduring Impact of Videos from Departed Loved Ones

/in /by

After Life, the acclaimed British television show, written, produced and directed by Ricky Gervais has touched the hearts of many with its poignant portrayal of grief and the transformative power of videos left behind by deceased loved ones. This blog delves into the priceless nature of these videos, exploring how they provide comfort, healing, and a sense of connection to those we’ve lost. The immense value of preserving these memories and the positive effects they have on the grieving process, through videos of loved ones is immeasurable.

NETFLIX

When we lose a loved one, their comforting words and guidance become irreplaceable. However, videos left behind offer a lifeline, capturing their expressions, laughter, and wisdom for us to cherish long after they are gone. From heartfelt messages to shared moments of joy, these videos become treasured tokens of their love and guidance, providing solace during difficult times.

Thanks to technological advancements, recording and sharing videos has become effortless, making it possible for our loved ones to record lasting messages that we may view also once they have passed. With smartphones, tablets, webcams, social media, and cloud storage, these videos can be preserved easily and accessed whenever needed. The thoughtfulness behind these gestures enhances their emotional impact, underlining the importance of these messages.

Videos left behind by deceased loved ones play a significant role in the healing process, as the character played by Ricky Gervais – Tony Johnson–  learned from his wife’s recordings made before she passed. They offered him solace and reassurance, reminding him that she is still with him in spirit. By hearing her voice and seeing her facial expressions, he found moments of respite amid grief. These videos provided a safe space to express emotions, seek guidance, and maintain a connection, fostering a sense of healing and continued support, albeit with his dog always by his side!

Netflix

Extensive research has explored the effect of videos left behind on the grieving process. These videos validate and support individuals emotionally, helping them process their grief and find meaning in their loss, as “Tony” experienced throughout this TV series. They facilitated a path for him to adopt healthier coping mechanisms, aided in finding closure, and promoted resilience. Watching these videos evoked positive memories, and fostered gratitude for the time he spent with his wife.

As we all navigate grief’s complexities, loved ones’ videos can become cherished keepsakes, offering comfort and strength during challenging times. It is important for us to recognize the profound significance they hold in our lives, bringing solace and support in the midst of recovering from loss.

What I know for sure is that I deeply cherish my dearly departed parents’ and my deceased clients’ videos, as part of my prized possessions. Furthermore, as I have been often quoted, “If a picture is worth a thousand words…then how much is a video of a loved one worth?”  

 

P.S. If you haven’t seen After Life– don’t miss it. It’s definitely not as sad as one might think– Ricky Gervais is a brilliant writer/ humorist. And as some would say, many comedies stem from tragedy.