MI Diaries vs Vaato

The MI-Diaries app is part of the MI-Diaries project from Michigan State University's Sociolinguistics Lab, which is collecting audio diaries from Michiganders aged 3+ who are interested in submitting periodic oral history recordings. The MI Diaries project originally aimed to document life in Michigan during the lockdowns and immediately afterwards, as we moved back into normal life. However, the response from Michiganders was so positive that we have continued to collect audio diaries ever since. We are interested in all aspects of how life is changing or stays the same for Michiganders, from their daily routines to their language. Residents of Michigan can learn more about the project and sign up at the project website http://mi-diaries.org. Diarists receive weekly (or monthly) emails from the team, with a list of audio diary prompts, such as "Was there a headline that stuck out to you this week?". Diarists may choose to answer any or none of these questions - you may simply tell us about your day if you wish! Diarists may choose whether to have their stories be featured on the MI-Diaries website; each week we select a handful of stories that highlight what diarists have been experiencing that week.

Vaato turns your voice into a book. Answer one question a day, speak for a few minutes, and after 45 days receive a beautiful bilingual memoir - in English and Gujarati. HOW IT WORKS - One question each day about your life - childhood, family, work, travel, faith, and more - After 45 questions, Vaato weaves your stories into a professionally written book with watercolor illustrations. WHAT YOU GET - A bilingual memoir (English + Gujarati) generated from your own words - 5-7 chapters covering your life arc - Custom watercolor illustrations for each chapter - Downloadable PDF you can print or share with family WHO IT'S FOR - Parents and grandparents who want to preserve their stories - Families who want a keepsake from their elders - Anyone who finds writing hard but loves to talk FEATURES - Voice-first: just press record and speak - Bilingual: English and Gujarati - AI-powered: smart follow-up questions adapt to your story - Private: your recordings stay in your family's secure space - No typing required Built with love for families.