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You know the saying “the days go slow, but the years go fast”? Isn’t that the truth?
As the years go by, children grow up, and memories fade, which we learned from our children and now our grandchildren. If you are like me, you wish you could bottle up every moment or at least create some sort of a time capsule that freezes the most important memories.
In the past, scrapbooks were an excellent way to preserve memories, but I have discovered an even better way: To set up an email address for your grandchild(ren) that you fill with cherished memories, pictures, and stories over the years and later gift them when they turn a certain age! Here’s how it works:
1. Choose an email provider
The first step in creating an email account for your grandchild is selecting a reliable and secure email provider. Some popular options include Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo Mail. Consider the provider’s reputation, ease of use, and storage capacity (trust me, the more storage the better!) before making a decision.
2. Create the account
Once you’ve chosen an email provider, create a new account using your grandchild’s name. To make the email address memorable, consider incorporating their birth year or a nickname. Set a strong password and make sure to keep it in a safe place until you’re ready to give the account to your grandchild.
Tip: Consult your grandchild’s parents before setting up the account for not only their blessing but as a backup for the log-in information!
3. Personalize the account
You can get as in-depth with this as you want (a la adding a profile picture or setting up an email signature), but I do have one recommendation in particular: Create separate folders for photos, stories, and other special memories.
4. Send your first email
Start building the collection of memories by composing your first email, which can be a letter detailing your excitement for your grandchild’s future or a simple memory of the day they were born. Attach a photo or video to make it even more memorable.
5. Keep updating the account
Over the years, continue to send emails, photos, and videos to your grandchild’s account. Record special events, holidays, and milestones in their life. Encourage other family members to contribute as well. The more memories and voices included, the better the final gift will be!
A few ideas include:
- Fun emails and digital letters
- Family stories and history
- Photos and videos
- Life lessons and advice
- Birthday and holiday wishes
6. Organize the content
Every so often, organize the content by moving emails to their corresponding folders, which will make it easier for your grandchild to navigate the account when they receive access. Additionally, take the time to back up important files to ensure their safety.
7. The big reveal!
When your grandchild turns 18 (or whichever age you choose), it’s time to hand over this digital time capsule! Share the email address and password with them, and watch as they discover the treasure trove of memories you’ve created. This special gift is sure to be cherished for years to come and may even inspire them to continue the tradition with their own children! (What’s better than that?)
Conclusion
While the internet has its negatives, ideas like these make me wish we had email when I was a girl so I, too, could have these cherished memories and a special keepsake from my grandma. This truly is a wholesome gift idea that you and your grandchild will cherish for years.
Remember: With each message and photo sent, you’re building a unique and meaningful gift that will connect your grandchild to their past and help them appreciate the love and support surrounding them as they enter adulthood – as only a Devoted Grandma like yourself can.
