Thursday, May 28, 2009

TEXT Thursday - May 28th

Lately, I've been spending a lot of time researching my family tree. I've been finding it so exciting! I sit with my grandmother some evenings and just ask a few questions about her childhood. She has so many fascinating stories to tell -- like the first time she ever swore! Her idea of a swear word was nothing like today's words, let me tell you.

In the photo below (my nan is on the left) she told me she was around 20 years old at the time, working as a house-cleaner for $6 a month. She saved two months wages to buy the suit she had on; it cost $10. In the photo is also her brother and his wife.




I haven't run out of questions to ask her yet, but if you struggle as to what to ask your relatives, there are many journal prompts to be found online. This one has a nice gift idea. Make a journal jar and send along with a notebook to your relatives.

Family History Journal Prompt Jar


I only wish I had realized earlier the importance of getting these stories down on paper. As scrapbookers, I'm sure we all want OUR stories to be told, but let's not forget the older generation that still have things to tell. I encourage you to seek out your grandparents and great-grandparents and transfer some of their stories to your layouts before it's too late.



3 comments:

Ann Arbogast said...

I know alot of my family history from both sides of my family. Thanks to having such a BIG family on both sides. My great Uncle published our family genelogy book that is listed in the Library of Congress. And I can find pictures of my father in there when he was just a little baby. Believe it or not I can be traced back to 3 celebrities and 2 presidents. My Great Uncle is still alive, and I enjoy talking to him every chance I get. My grandfather lived to be 98 years old, and I could repeat every story he has told me about the great depression, and several other things. Sorry so winded.

Jean Marie said...

What an exciting journey you are on, Carla!
Beautiful photo you have shared!

I'll never forget my first search into my families history all starting thru an oral story that carried down thru my grandmother.

I have found a recorder is also very helpful when interviewing elder family members.

If I can be of any help or do a lookup for you ,please feel free to email. Happy Hunting :)

Stephanie said...

Great idea! I need to do this with my grandparents and it would be an excellent present as they live far away from me. Thanks for the idea!