Dear Abby: Grandparents' early memories are cherished family history

Dear Abby
Posted: June 18, 2012

DEAR ABBY: My parents are approaching their 80s, and I'd like to recommend to seniors that a cherished gift to their children and grandchildren would be a journal or family history book written by them describing their childhood memories and early married years.

Children and grandchildren can be given the chance to see through your eyes and your memories what their aunts, uncles and grandparents were like. The family history can be passed from one generation to the next, and I cannot think of a more special gift.

— Charlene in Camarillo, Calif.

DEAR CHARLENE: That's a splendid idea. However, I would urge children and grandchildren INTERVIEW their parents and grandparents now, with pencil in hand. Better yet, if possible, use a video recorder.

DEAR ABBY: I have a good friend who is married to an abrasive, negative woman. She never has anything nice to say about anyone or anything.

I don't want his wife's negative energy around my family. Should I explain that he and his children are welcome in our home, but his wife is not? Or should I arrange to see him only when I know his wife is occupied elsewhere?

— S.K. Out West

DEAR S.K.: What a sad situation.

To tell this man that you want to protect your family from his wife's "negative energy" could end the friendship, so I don't recommend it. Seeing him when his wife is otherwise occupied would be far more diplomatic. n

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