20-year-old hidden surprise in family car leaves woman speechless

Julie, known as @juliannaharveyx on TikTok, recently stumbled upon a precious piece of her past in a way she never expected. After purchasing her late grandparents’ car, she discovered a recording of herself and her "Pop-pop" from nearly 20 years ago, bringing back cherished memories of a time they spent together. The video quickly went viral, resonating with others who’ve experienced similar moments of nostalgia and loss.

In the video, Julie plays the car’s built-in recording device, which had preserved a sweet conversation between her and her grandfather. She can be heard saying, "Helllooo!" to which her grandad warmly replies, "Is that you, Julie? Do you want to talk to pop-pop while we are driving around in the car? You want to make a new message?" When Julie responds that she does, her grandfather encourages her, "OK, let's hear your message then."

Julie hesitates, prompting her granddad to lovingly tease her, "Cat got your tongue, forgot how to speak, did you?" Julie replies, "I forgot... Ahhh..."—her words unclear, but the sentiment unmistakable. This simple recording became a precious memento of her grandfather, a treasure she’ll hold dear forever. In a text overlay, Julie explained, "My pop-pop passed away in December of 2022 and I just recently bought my grandparents' car and found this recording of us from almost 20 years ago."

The car, a Cadillac purchased in 2003 with just 50,000 miles on it, holds both physical and emotional value for Julie, reminding her of all the memories shared with her beloved Pop-pop.

Julie's heartfelt video quickly gained attention, with over 987,000 views and countless comments from users sharing their own experiences. One user, @cami_chanel, reflected on the sentimental nature of such discoveries, writing, "Sweet to think he was recording to save your voice for him, but instead, you get his voice." Another, @lanta.2, shared a similar story: "I drive my grandpa's car too. One day, my Bluetooth cut off and I went to the CD I didn't know was there. It started playing the music I remember him singing to me. It made my whole day, new daily listen."

Others expressed deep empathy and understanding. @julieingeneral wrote, "As a Julie who lost her Poppop and missed him every day, this hit home. I'm glad you still have voice memos from him. He sounds like a wonderful grandpa."

The ability to hold on to a loved one’s voice or presence, even after they’ve passed, is something many in the comments could relate to. @amber_shenae_nay commented, "I have a voicemail from 2017 before my papa passed and occasionally, I'll listen to it... so bittersweet to hear their voice yet remember they are no longer here. I'm sure you were so happy to find this!" Another user, @user3621161841829, shared, "I love this! I have a recording of my grandpa wishing me a happy birthday from 10 years ago. Every year on my birthday, I listen to it."

Driving a late loved one’s car has been a source of comfort for many. @anilsat18 related to Julie’s experience, commenting, "I drive my dad's car, who passed this year and for me, it helps me feel so much closer to him. I just know it's the same for you, especially now! Rest in heaven!" Whether it's an old voicemail, a recording, or simply being behind the wheel of their car, these small moments allow people to feel close to those they've lost.

In a follow-up video, Julie shared photos of herself and her grandfather, both looking happy and filled with love for each other. She captioned it, "He was the best! I found out I was pregnant the night after he passed away," adding another layer of emotion to her story.

Julie’s discovery has reminded many of the importance of cherishing memories, both big and small, and how even the simplest things can carry immense meaning when they remind us of those we’ve lost.