Radically Retired

Priceless

Written by

Terry

in

,

Before we took my parents on their first road trip vacation with us, a cousin recommended getting a little handheld tape recorder to record the entire trip: conversations in the vehicle, what we were seeing, weather reports, time of day, hi-lights from each day, as well as interviews with strangers like waiters, bell staff, locals and other travellers.

I took her advice and what a treasure these recordings are now. Listening to the conversations and the laughter is just like doing those trips all over again.

This past week, I hauled out the box of tapes and the original tape player/recorder for the first time in years, and so many memories are flooding back. It’s amazing how much one forgets while remembering the hi-lights. These tapes bring back every single detail.

Priceless.

Comments

17 responses to “Priceless”

  1. Edward Ortiz Avatar
    Edward Ortiz

    Great idea! I’ve never thought of doing that. I use a travel journal to jot down highlights from our trips, but recording audio sounds like an even cooler addition than video. It’s tough to get people to act naturally when you’re filming.

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      That’s so true, Edward. Everyone is much more relaxed when it’s audio only. Thanks for stopping by to read and comment and enjoy your Saturday!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Edward Ortiz Avatar
        Edward Ortiz

        You’re welcome, and happy Saturday!

        Liked by 1 person

  2. Chuckster Avatar
    Chuckster

    Wow, I used Voice Memo on my IPhone and recorded bits and pieces from my recent trip Terry. I loved my recording of the Irish banter and singing between our driver and Irish guides. The recording is priceless. I’ve only tried this one other time, where I was scolded by our Greek Temple expert. Thanks for posting this, I did not know this method. ☘️🏄‍♂️

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      It’s completely amazing in how it vividly restores lost memories and emotions, Chuckster. I wish I could lay claim to the idea – but I had to give credit to where credit is due – to my cousin. Thanks for stopping by to read and comment and enjoy the rest of your day!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  3. A Creative Spirit Avatar
    A Creative Spirit

    What a brilliant idea and what fun. What I’d give to look back and listen to my parents now…

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      I realize just how special this is, Carole. Thanks for stopping by the read and comment! Rest well tonight!

      Like

      Reply
  4. fabricthatmademe Avatar
    fabricthatmademe

    I did something similar when my sister and I took a trip to visit our grandparents—and I’m so glad we did! We heard stories about their early life together, raising kids, and even their own childhoods—things we had never known. We baked using my grandma’s recipes, passed down through generations, and recorded it all. Truly precious memories! So worth it!!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      It sure is worth it. Your comment reminded me that I did a voice recording of my Grandpa when I was in high school. He recounted his life from a young boy until he married. Now, I’m going to find that tape and give it a listen. Thank you!

      Liked by 1 person

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  5. Betty Avatar
    Betty

    What a wonderful treasure!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      It sure is, Betty – in more ways than I can even explain! Thanks for your read and your comments and enjoy your Thursday!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  6. Charla Avatar
    Charla

    What a treasure! To hear the voices and the adventures, wow, priceless indeed.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      Truly a treasure, Charla and I’d recommend it to anyone. Thanks for stopping by to read and comment and enjoy your day!

      Like

      Reply
      1. Charla Avatar
        Charla

        Thanks for sharing!

        Like

  7. annemariedemyen Avatar
    annemariedemyen

    That is priceless, Terry. I bet your Mom would love to listen to those with you. 💞😉

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Terry Avatar
      Terry

      I was visiting Mom yesterday and she asked me to bring the tapes to her, Anne. She had a set but they got lost in one of her moves. There are literally hours of tape, so she’ll listen to them, at her leisure. Thanks for reading and commenting, Anne – have a fab day!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Charla Avatar
        Charla

        I am sure your mom will get such great pleasure from listening to those tapes. Great idea. It kind of makes me teary, thinking of the priceless memories she will get to revisit through those tapes. Beautiful.

        Liked by 1 person

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