Artful memory-keeping ideas from the world of sketch journaling

If writing about your life isn't for you, how about drawing it? Ideas for using a sketch journal to capture your memories, plus the book that will inspire you.

reviewsDawn M. RoodeSeptember 13, 2021journal writing, illustrated journals, journaling, capturing the everydayComment

Life Story Links: September 7, 2021

A thoughtfully curated list of recent stories on how to write memoir, preserve memories, organize photos, and leave a legacy for the next generation.

curated roundupsDawn M. RoodeSeptember 7, 2021Comment

3 lessons I re-learned during the pandemic

This ongoing pandemic has challenged some long-held beliefs—including that personal history interviews must be done in person (nay!). Wisdom from adversity...

dawn's musingsDawn M. RoodeAugust 30, 2021conducting personal history interviews remotely, benefits of in-person interviews, tribute books make meaningful giftsComment

Life Story Links: August 24, 2021

A curated collection of recent stories about writing—and reading—memoir, creating lasting legacies, and telling family stories in engaging, truthful ways.

curated roundupsDawn M. RoodeAugust 24, 2021recent memoir and biography, the photo legacy you leave your children, the best in family storytellingComment

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

Life Story Links: August 9, 2021

A bi-weekly roundup focused on ideas and practical tips for preserving your legacy, writing about your life, and reading memoir and biography as inspiration.

curated roundupsDawn M. RoodeAugust 3, 2021recent memoir and biography, leaving a legacy, the best in family storytellingComment

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.

family history, the art of listeningDawn M. RoodeAugust 2, 2021family history interviews, oral history interviews, interviewing techniques, questions to ask parents, family history questionsComment

Life Story Links: July 27, 2021

An array of reads for memory-keepers of all kinds including great autobiographical writing, thoughts on what we remember, and the stories within our heirlooms.

curated roundupsDawn M. RoodeJuly 27, 2021stories of our stuff, memories associated with family heirlooms, first person storytellingComment