I recently discovered the engaging presentation style known as Pecha Kucha, Japanese for “chit chat.” This method involves expressing ideas through 20 images, each shown for exactly 20 seconds, offering a dynamic way to tell a story or share a message.
With my 40th high school reunion approaching at Phillips Exeter Academy—a place I revisited during my 15th and 20th reunions—the theme of “joy” couldn’t be more apt. Amidst the thrill of returning and the typical reunion jitters, our class is asked to spotlight the joyful moments that have punctuated our lives since graduation through a Pecha Kucha presentation.
Recently, I penned a list of what brings me joy, which serves as a foundation for my slides:
- Daily strolls with my husband and our dog, Duke.
- Enjoying the symphony of birds and watching bees dance among flowers from my porch in Minnesota’s warmer months.
- Mountain hikes and ocean swims—scenes not found in Minnesota.
- Savoring the sunshine and fresh air.
- Baking chocolate chip cookies for my grandson, Z.
- Practicing yoga and hosting heartfelt gatherings for loved ones.
- Observing the diverse tapestry of life around me.
- Adorning my space with fresh flowers.
- Plus sixteen other delights.
This exercise of selecting just the right photos from hundreds to a mere 20 has been a profound journey down memory lane, reaffirming my present joys.
A recent Zoom happy hour with classmates rekindled old friendships and sparked new ones, heightening my excitement for the reunion. Think about what your Pecha Kucha would look like. What images would you select to depict your joys? I encourage you to share your own stories of rediscovery and happiness in the comments below or on our social media.
As May approaches and I prepare to share my 20 slides of joy with old classmates, I am reminded of the simple pleasures’ enduring power and the deep connections they foster. Join me in exploring how this unique presentation style can illuminate not only seasonal but daily joys, enriching our lives one slide at a time.
Two Links Du Jour:
- Learn how to create a Pecha Kucha presentation.
- 10 Tips for Enjoying Your Class Reunion — Guideposts
Two Minutes Du Jour 
2 responses to “Capturing Joy in 20 Slides: Pecha Kucha in Progress for Class Reunion”
Hi, I hope I won’t seem dumb asking this, but, is there something I need to do to get the Pecha Kucha experience? And sorry for bothering you about it, but the image didn’t change and I tried clicking on stuff and everything. I lived in the Republic of Korea for 21 months when Daddy was stationed there and loved going up the mountains and the views from them so saw this (after you posted on Mr. Fenner’s blog) and well, I love beautiful vistas. Mountainscapes are probably my fav views, but large open views, whether with lakes or plains or stuff just fill me with a sense of peace and wonder.
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Hi, Madison. Thanks for checking out Two Minutes Du Jour. To create a pecha kucha, try this link: https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/pechakucha–create. You can also use PowerPoint or another slide format. After my class reunion, I’ll definitely share the pecha kucha I created:) Congrats on starting your blog, too!
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