Do you want to write your memoir but don't consider yourself a writer? Don't worry, there's another—easier—way to preserve them. Speak your life stories aloud.

family history, memoir & writingDawn M. RoodeFebruary 20, 2022oral history recording, writing tips for non-writers, how to tell your story is you are not a writerComment

Today: “I don’t care.” Tomorrow: “That was life-changing.”

Family stories have enduring value. Some you share now may not be relevant enough for your kids to care. But one day they will see themselves in your stories.

family history, why tell your stories?Dawn M. RoodeFebruary 7, 2022life lessons through storytelling, intergenerational storytelling, writing about life transitionsComment

The simple reason your life story project never gets finished

Got a life story writing project that you've wanted to do for a long time that's just not getting done? How setting a deadline may be the key to completion.

family history, memoir & writingDawn M. RoodeJanuary 24, 2022creating a plan for your legacy book, the power of deadlines for writing projects, avoid overwhelm with your family history projectComment

Two unexpected writing prompts about family

These two writing prompts about family—and what it means to you—may be just the ticket to more thoughtful storytelling and personal meaning-making.

family history, memoir & writingDawn M. RoodeDecember 6, 2021life story writing prompts, autobiographical writing prompts, meaning of family Comment

Family potluck: reminiscing and recipes

If you're not sure who is the keeper of your family's favorite recipes, take advantage of your next holiday gathering to start preserving your food heritage.

food memories, family historyDawn M. RoodeNovember 8, 2021a taste of the past, preserving food heritage, food memories, preserving family recipes for futureComment

3 awesome (and easy!) Thanksgiving memory-keeping ideas

Get the whole family involved in saving stories and favorite holiday recipes with these three easy and fun Thanksgiving memory-keeping ideas.

family history, food memoriesDawn M. RoodeOctober 24, 2021Thanksgiving memory-keeping ideas, food memories, family stories over holidays, family traditionsComment

How to be a good storyteller if you are the subject of a family history interview

Have you been invited by a family member to be interviewed about your life? Don't worry—these tips will help you get comfy & be the best storyteller you can be.

family historyDawn M. RoodeAugust 16, 2021how to be a good storyteller, what to do when being interviewed about your family history, how to answer questions during a personal history interviewComment

My 3 favorite opening questions to get a personal history interview going

Planning to conduct a personal history interview with a family member? Here are three effective first questions that guarantee their stories will flow freely.