Family History for the Holidays

By Kerry Griffin Smith

Soon we’ll be together eating, laughing, and talking as families. With the approaching holidays, it’s a prime time to gather and preserve information about loved ones, especially older generations.

Don’t let the opportunity pass by another year. Gather a few simple supplies and be ready for the opportunities that will naturally present themselves.

Needed Supplies

1. Note-taking Materials. You can use standard paper and pen for taking notes, or use the Notes feature on your phone or bring your laptop to jot down a few memorable things Grandma might say.

2. Scanner. I use a simple phone app called PhotoMyne to instantly capture and scan any photo or document. I pay a nominal yearly fee, which is well worth the price to me. Scans always turn out pristine, and I can scan entire scrapbook book pages, and the app will divide them into individual images. There are also photo-editing options. It literally takes me just a few seconds to scan an image.

You can also bring a computer and scanner if that’s the equipment you already have. Take a look around Grandma’s house to see which images you’d like to copy and begin the quick process.

Sometimes I remove photos from glass frames to eliminate glare. Test to see if it makes a difference on your scanner. You may not need to remove photos.

3. Recorder. Voice and/or visual recordings are so fun to have! Ask grandparents a few questions and record their responses live. Don’t forget to save them in the Memories section on familysearch.org.

4. Camera. Snap lots of pictures, including one of Grandma and Mom preparing a meal. Also, snap pictures of the recipe, preferably written in their handwriting. Include both in a digital scrapbook you can eventually print and share.

Sample Questions to Ask

1. What were the holidays like when you were growing up?

2. What are your favorite traditions this time of year?

3. What’s the most meaningful present you have ever received?

4. What is your favorite song this time of year?

5. Of all the holiday dishes, which one is your favorite and why?

6. Who do you miss most during the holidays? What was that person like?

7. Show us a family heirloom and tell us about it.

8. What would you like our family to remember most about you?

I said a final goodbye to both parents last year and miss them especially during the holiday season. I’m grateful my mom preserved many memories in scrapbooks, but there are still questions I’d like to ask her.

While you have the opportunity, ask the questions. Take the pictures, record the memories, and enjoy the upcoming holiday season to the fullest. A little effort on your part can preserve precious memories while you have the chance.

Kerry Griffin Smith, an editor for the former Ensign magazine, enjoys living in Utah and exploring all the great state has to offer with her family. She also loves to share clean, quality books with friends on Facebook and Instagram.