“It’s been a joy working with Julie Jo to create a life story book for my kids and grandkids. What sets her apart is not only her writing and editing skills but also her unique ability to listen deeply, conduct additional research for historical context, and weave everything together in a way that is both beautiful and succinct. Every chapter of my story has been crafted with care, attention to detail, and respect for my voice.”
Stuart Swartz
/
Former General Manager of FOX 9/ KMSP-TV and Emmy Award recipient
from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences-Upper Midwest Chapter
★★★★★
Keep family history alive while reinforcing the ties that bring everyone together.
Hi. I’m Julie Jo Severson. As the founder of Cherish Life Stories, I consider it a profound privilege to interview people about their lives—to listen as they recount their memories, reflect on their journeys, and share the wisdom they’ve gathered along the way.
It wasn’t until I became a first-time mom over twenty years ago that I fully grasped the importance of preserving life stories for future generations. Ten years had passed since the last of my grandparents had passed, and it deeply saddened me to realize I had missed the invaluable chance to learn about their firsthand accounts, lived experiences, and the lessons learned firsthand, which I now wish I could share with my children. But it wasn’t too late to ask my parents. So, I sat down with them and asked the questions I had never thought to ask before.
Among countless other revelations, I discovered for the first time that my Grandma Gertrude had been the editor of her school newspaper—just as I was. I learned that my great-great-grandfather was farmed out by the government at age 12 after losing his entire family to the cholera epidemic of the 1850s. I found out that my mom, a farm girl with big dreams, used to sing to the cows, hoping one day to become an opera singer.
And then there was my dad. As a little boy, he once climbed a telephone pole just to catch a glimpse of his mother in her hospital room before she passed away from cancer. Reflecting on that heartbreaking and pivotal time in his life, he told me, “I remember wanting to climb into the casket and go where she was going.”
I cringe to think of all the incredible family stories that might have been lost forever had I not simply given my parents, who have since passed, the chance to reminisce. Now, those stories, along with so many others, are preserved in a priceless, hardbound collection for each of my children. I’d love to help you do the same—these make truly meaningful gifts!
I’ll Honor Your Stories
with Care and Compassion.
While spearheading and contributing to publishing projects for over three decades as a journalist, blogger, freelance editor, and author, I’ve learned that the heart of a vivid life story is forging an emotional connection and bringing experiences to life with rich detail and authenticity.
With deep respect and heartfelt curiosity, I’ll listen, capture, and craft your life stories into a lasting treasure for generations to come. Your story matters, and I am honored to help you preserve it.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out today using the email link below. I look forward to working with you.
–Julie Jo