[Ally Castillo]

Would You Rather? 05.12.2025​

My, my, surprised to see me (Ally) jump into an afternoon newsletter? The lovely Emerald is on break for the week, and I will be checking in with all of you in her stead! I can only hope you don't get tired of seeing my name in your inbox this week... but enough about me! How was everyone’s weekend? Did you finally crack open that book you’ve been meaning to read since 2009? Did you try a new recipe, or just reorder from that one restaurant again? (No judgement—I'm the same way!)

I've been in a little introspective mood since Saturday and wanted to lean into a little reflection today as well. I know retirement is one of those big milestones that comes with a whole lot of freedom, and now I've got a question: Would you rather write a memoir and publish your life story for the world to read or keep a private journal and pass it down secretly to your descendants? Tell the TGV team all about it in the comments! As for me, I'd rather pass down a journal with all sorts of secret codes that my family members can try and solve—sort of like a family treasure hunt! Whether or not it leads to actual treasure is a secret I'll never tell.

Drop your thoughts below—I can’t wait to hear your takes!

Sincerely,
Ally

 

[Gayle B.]

I’m boring. I have no descendents. I would keep a journal with instructions to burn it right after I pass.

 

[GaryBlake]

I have been keeping a journal for many years for my kids. I went through a very rough patch for a looong time… almost a decade, after my divorce. I read one of my notebooks from back then, and it was very, very hard to read. Some of it was even illegible. I am pondering whether to keep it, or burn it as a cathartic.

 

[Gibb]

Really I would do neither. Things
from my past aren't for others to know.
My kids would just feel sorry for me or try to " fix " it. No thank you

 

[deaniela]

I’d definitely keep a journal and pass it on to my family. Mostly boring but some real bombshell too.

 

[Donna54]

I have a daughter she is 50 now, I write a note or letter every month and give it to her, it’s dated inside and out and also wrapped in that months holiday napkin! Sometimes it’s how my month went, sometimes to vent, sometimes money or just something I wanted to show her. It’s been a long time, she has two lock boxes! She says she won’t open till I’m gone. She will have mostly smiles I hope, lots of memories and some tears , for she is my best friend also! Just something we decided together