We have a journal that my husband started back on January 2, 1998. It's about family stories. Some are stories of our ancestors and some are stories of the kids growing up, and some entries are of Jim's thoughts.
Inside the journal you will find a picture of the house we raised our kids in.
Also you will find an introduction or message to our kids.
I recently picked the journal up because it was not in it's usual place, which is in the drawer of the table that sits beside Jim's chair in the living room. I started reading the entries for the millionth time and laughed and cried all over again.
I read an entry about our youngest and I was laughing so hard, I called her down to find out if she remembered the story that was written about her. She did, and she was the one who had taken the journal out of it's place. She was reading it and wondered why her Dad hasn't written in it in so long? I told her to ask her Dad that question.
I wonder who will get this book when Jim and I are gone? Lauren said she wants the book and mentioned that a few others want it too. Maybe they'll have to make copies for everyone.
I think I will always laugh and cry no matter how many times I read this journal.
What a great idea. Maybe Jim should get writing and make enough hand-written copies??? ;-)
Posted by: Thimbleanna | August 26, 2009 at 07:25 AM
what a cool thing to have!
Posted by: Julie L | August 26, 2009 at 08:24 AM
What a wonderful gift to pass on after you both are gone!
Posted by: Bev | August 26, 2009 at 09:23 AM
That's one of the best ideas I've ever heard of and you know it's usually the woman that does such a thing. Where did you find this man???? Your children and grandchildren will enjoy this and probably the generations after that also.
Posted by: Dot | August 26, 2009 at 11:40 AM
What a treasure... the journal and the writer.
Posted by: Zaroga | August 26, 2009 at 03:19 PM
this idea is sacred and so filled with warmth!
Posted by: elk | August 26, 2009 at 04:28 PM
What an amazing idea! My grandma and grandpa took family photographs on slides and videotaped herself showing the slides and narrating about the people and events-I treasure it so!
Posted by: jessica | August 26, 2009 at 05:49 PM
haha if i think i know what story youre talking about.. you should post it.. thats a hilarious story!
Posted by: Erin | August 26, 2009 at 09:18 PM
Judy...I think that's more than wonderful. What a treasure and an amazing and timeless gift for your children and grandchildren.
Family history is so important.
My husband started a journal last year...I hope he fills it as full of stories just as your wonderful husband has.
Thanks for the inspiration!
x lori
Posted by: Lori Holt | August 27, 2009 at 01:08 AM
What a wonderful treasure of memories for your family. Nice job Jim! Keep it going. :)
xxxx
Posted by: kar | August 27, 2009 at 08:24 AM
Your rooster/chicken collection is so much fun...wish I had a few of them, well, ALL of them!LOL
I'd definitely make a few copies of the journal......
Posted by: carol | August 27, 2009 at 12:39 PM
That's so wonderful. Having a book filled with stories from your family and childhood written by your father.....
That must feel so special to read when you're old and grey.
Posted by: Corry | August 28, 2009 at 01:51 AM
Judy,
What a wonderful and precious keepsake. Don't those stories feel like they happened just yesterday!
Posted by: Gina | September 05, 2009 at 08:18 AM