A friend of mine has just pointed me to this fabulous website (The Book of Me Shop) that's all about writing the story of the scrapbooker - usually the eye BEHIND the camera, and not the face in front of it. When we're gone, will our children remember our story?Now, I haven't bought the book, but I'm completely sold on the idea! Heritage Makers is too - here are some journalling prompts that they've already come up with to help you write your own Life Story (and of course, feel free to deviate!!)
Also worth checking out are our Cornerstone Series (search Category: Cornerstone in the Template Gallery) which has several different "Life Story" ideas ready to customize. One of my favorites is "Before I Was Your Mom" (template ID: 18386)
So here's to writing the story about the author!! Have fun!!
Life Story Prompts
Personal History
1. Start with the basics; What were your date and place of birth?
2. What were your parents' names? Did you already have siblings?
3. Where did your parents come from?
4. What was your first home/room like?
Childhood
1. What was life like for you as a child?
2. What experiences do you remember having with brothers and sisters?
3. What was your earliest childhood memory (or one that most stands out)?
4. What were some of your "favorites"? (toys, pets, blankie, movies, foods, games, books...)
School Days
1. What was school like when you were younger?
2. Was there something you were really good at in school?
3. What did you want to be when you grew up?
4. Do you have any fond memories of teachers? Any fun field trips?
Interests and Hobbies
1. What interests did you have and how did this interest develop?
2. What was the most important thing you learned from your parents?
3. What extracurricular activities did you participate in?
4. Be broad in your thinking - artistic, musical, athletic, academic, collecting things...
Young Adult Experiences
1. When did you first leave home? Where did you go?
2. What goals did you pursue at this time? Work? School? Travel?
3. How did you decide which path to pursue?
4. Who were some of the important people in your life when you were first on your own?
Friends and Family
1. When did you fall in love?
2. What was the courtship, engagement, or wedding like?
3. What was life like for the young couple?
4. What were some of your dreams together?
Home, Career, and Interests
1. What special awards or recognition have you received?
2. What personal qualities do you think helped you to be most successful in your home life or in
the workforce?
3. What special interests do you have as an adult?
4. What was a "normal" day for you like?
Holidays and Vacations
1. Where is your favorite place to visit?
2. What is it like visiting your favorite place? Do you go by car, plane, etc.?
3. What holiday traditions carried over from your childhood?
4. Who are the people involved in your holidays and vacations?
Family Life
1. What strengths do you have as a parent?
2. What do you enjoy most about being a parent, aunt, uncle, friend, etc.?
3. What do you enjoy doing with family and others?
4. What nicknames did you or others have in your family?
Special Memories
1. What do you want to be remembered for?
2. Did you create any fun traditions with friends or family?
3. Who do you think of when you think of the good times in your life?
4. Where did some of your fondest memories take place?
Leaving a Legacy
1. What have you learned from your experiences?
2. Is there any advice that you are known for giving?
3. What special phrases do you often say?
4. Who do you want to leave your legacy for?
