Ever wondered about the real stories behind your family? Sure, you know Grandpa’s name or where Grandma grew up—but what about the juicy bits? Like who sneaked cookies with them after school, or the games they played when adults weren’t looking? Those little stories? They’re the secret sauce that makes your family’s history yours.

Terry M Geaslin’s Your Living Years is like a friendly detective for these memories. It’s stuffed with questions to ask grandparents that go beyond “born in 1945” to “What made you feel brave as a kid?” Grab a copy, cozy up with your family, and let the stories unfold. Who knows—you might even find out where your love for bad jokes really came from.

Start Simple, But Go Beyond the Basics

Most people ask, “When were you born?” or “Where did you grow up?” But those answers only scratch the surface. Instead, try asking:

  • “What was your favorite thing to do after school?”
  • “Who made you laugh the most when you were my age?”

These aren’t just family history questions—they’re backstage passes to stories hiding in photo albums and old shoeboxes. Think of your grandma’s laugh as she admits she once dyed her sister’s hair green by accident, or your grandpa’s shrug as he says, “Yeah, I set the shed on fire once—don’t tell your mom.” Those moments? They’re the scribbles in the margins of your family’s storybook—messy, real, and yours.

Your Living Years turns these conversations into easy, natural exchanges. No stiff interviews—just real talk that uncovers the big wins and the quiet, quirky moments that shaped your family’s story.

Why Your Family’s Stories Matter

Stories connect us. When Dad shares stories about his teenage skateboard wipeouts or Great-Grandma describes her first day of school in a one-room classroom, you’re not just hearing tales—you’re stitching together your family legacy. These stories aren’t dusty old facts. They’re time capsules for your grandkids. Picture them someday giggling at your middle-school diary or sighing over how you met your first love. That’s how history stays alive.

Terry M Geaslin’s book isn’t just a list of questions. Think of it as a friendly nudge to save those oh-I-almost-forgot moments. Jot down your own stories too—the time you accidentally dyed the dog pink, or how you still can’t parallel park. No fancy words required. Just you, scribbling down life as it happens.

Keep It Light, Keep It Real

Not sure how to get started? Try these family storytelling ideas:

  • Record a conversation: Use your phone to film your grandpa sharing a story.
  • Create a scrapbook: Add photos, notes, and even ticket stubs from events they mention.
  • Host a “story night”: Invite family members to share one memory over dinner.

If you’re shy, Your Living Years has your back. Pick a few questions before family gatherings. People love talking about themselves, and you’ll avoid awkward silences. It’s a win-win!

Turn Memories into Treasures

Once you start collecting stories, don’t let them gather dust! Here’s how to keep them alive:

  • Write them down: Use a journal or a computer to save every detail.
  • Share them: Post a story on social media or email it to relatives.
  • Turn them into art: Draw a picture of your grandma’s childhood home or make a family tree.

The book Your Living Years includes tips for organizing stories so they’re easy to pass down. You’ll learn how to turn casual chats into a lasting family legacy.

 

Questions for Every Age

Don’t limit yourself to older family members! Ask cousins, aunts, and uncles too. For example:

  • “What’s your earliest memory of our family?”
  • “What’s one thing you wish you could tell your younger self?”

Younger relatives might surprise you with fresh perspectives. Terry M Geaslin’s book has questions for all ages, making it easy to include everyone in the conversation.

What If You Don’t Know Where to Start?

Stuck? Start small. Pick one person—maybe Mom or Grandpa—and one question. Try:

  • “Hey Mom, what was your school lunch like when you were 12?”

Or:

  • “Grandpa, spill it—how’d you work up the courage to ask Grandma out?”

 

That’s it. No pressure. Just one question, one story. Like cracking open a window to let light into a dusty room. The rest? It’ll follow.

Your Living Years breaks the process into simple steps. You don’t need to rush—take your time and enjoy the journey.

Stories Teach Us About Life

Family stories aren’t just fun—they’re full of lessons. Your uncle’s story about overcoming a challenge might inspire you. Your great-aunt’s tales about old traditions could teach you about resilience.

By asking questions, you’re not just learning history. You’re discovering values, humor, and wisdom that shaped your family.

Your Family’s Past Is Waiting

You don’t need a magnifying glass to dig up your family’s stories. A little curiosity and a handful of thoughtful questions? That’s all it takes to turn dusty names and dates into real, breathing adventures—like discovering your great-aunt secretly rode a motorcycle or that your dad once tried (and failed) to bake a cake for his crush.

Ready to start? Check out Your Living Years by Terry M Geaslin. It’s available on Amazon, and you can learn more about the author on Terry’s website.

Remember: every question you ask today becomes a treasure for tomorrow. Happy storytelling!