By writing your memories of growing up, you are painting a picture for the children in your family. They will be transported back to your childhood, and get to know your siblings, aunts, uncles, parents and grandparents.
-Erik and Faye Krippner
FAYE: I have had a passion for book creation and design since I was a little girl. Working in the fields of technical writing, web and graphic design, and as the owner and active practitioner of a massage therapy practice, I value the deep connection we all share, and the design of an experience.
I have had the honor of compiling my grandfather’s memoirs, nearly 300 pages of wonderful stories of his life. My mother and I worked together to edit and design a hardcover book for him, which he was honored to receive as a gift in front of the whole family.
When my mother became ill, we worked on her biography together. This book was written for her young grandchildren, and included letters she wrote to each of them, telling them of her hopes for them in the future. This book helped my mother wrap up her time here on earth reflecting on her beautiful life, and continues to serve as a bond between her grandchildren and their grandmother. My next project was to create stories of my young niece’s lives, books that included their own art and stories they had written. Since then, Erik and I have written many life stories for others, at all stages of life.
Every family has people and stories who inspire future generations. My uncle has climbed most of the tallest mountain peaks in the world, and photographed many of his adventures along the way. We were excited to create a beautiful coffee table book of his photography. Through this book, future generations will know that their world is a little bigger, and the possibilities of what they can accomplish are greater. It is wonderful to know that strong, inspiring people have come before us.
This is very satisfying and humbling work, that means a great deal to the people involved.
ERIK: Some of my most memorable childhood moments were spent with my grandfather in his workshop, watching his strong hands as he introduced me to woodworking tools. I matched his pace in the garden as we sweat together in the sweltering Texas summer. His words still carry on in my mind: “It’s all in how you hold your mouth,” and “let the tool do the work.”
I received a degree in forestry at Louisiana State, and made my way up to the Pacific Northwest, where I worked deep in the evergreen forests. In the evening, we told stories of our days and our lives. I also spent many evenings sharing stories with my fellow hikers on my seasons hiking the Appalachian Trail.
I have always enjoyed organization, writing and music, and am now a massage therapist with my own practice. I appreciate listening to others’ stories, and relish their passion as they speak of their past