Sometimes people think they need to “get ready” before recording their story — as if life memories require perfect words, perfect timelines, or perfect recall.
They don’t.
A Life Chronicles session isn’t a test. It’s a gentle conversation — the kind that helps a story come out naturally, in a way that feels honest and human.
If you’re joining our pilot project with the District of West Vancouver Seniors’ Activity Centre, here’s a simple checklist that keeps preparation light, but makes the filming day smoother.
1) Pick one theme (not your whole life)
Your life is not one story — it’s a library. Instead of trying to cover everything, choose a single “door” to enter through:
- “How I grew up and what shaped me”
- “How we met / how our family began”
- “A job I loved (or didn’t) and what I learned”
- “A turning point I’ll never forget”
- “The people who made me who I am”
One theme is enough. The rest often shows up on its own.
2) Bring 5–10 photos (a few is perfect)
Photos are wonderful — not because we need them, but because they unlock details. A small stack is ideal:
- 1 childhood photo
- 1 family photo
- 1 “work / pride” photo
- 1 travel / place photo
- 1 photo that always makes you smile
If you have more — great. But don’t stress. Even two photos can carry an entire episode of memories.
3) Write down 7 names (just names)
People often worry: “What if I forget someone important?” A tiny cheat sheet helps — no full notes needed.
Write 5–7 names you know will come up: parents, siblings, close friends, a mentor, a partner, children, a teacher.
You can keep it off camera — it’s simply there to give you peace of mind.
4) Don’t “practice” your answers
Practicing makes stories polished… and often less alive.
Real value is in your natural voice: small pauses, laughter, “I don’t remember exactly,” and the little moments that make a memory true.
5) Choose comfort over perfection
On filming day, comfort wins.
- Wear something you feel good in (avoid tiny stripes / noisy jewelry)
- Bring water or tea
- If you’re filming as a pair, arrive 10 minutes early to settle in
- Most importantly: give yourself permission to go slow
6) Remember: you can skip anything
Some topics are sensitive. Some stories aren’t ready. Some are simply private. That’s always okay.
We can skip, pivot, or pause. The goal is not to extract — it’s to preserve.
Pilot project dates (a few spots still available)
We’re currently offering a limited number of sessions through the District of West Vancouver Seniors’ Activity Centre at a reduced community-centre rate.
There are still a few spots on:
- Apr 19
- May 3
- June 14
Details and registration:
https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/westvanrec/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_keyword=Life%20Chronicles&viewMode=list&locale=en-US
If you know someone who’s been saying “one day I should tell my story”… this is a lovely time to start.