As your guide through the nostalgic pathways of the heart, I, Melissa Ann Kitchen, invite you to unwrap the gift of nostalgia and its surprising power to bolster well-being, spark creativity, and foster an optimistic view of the future. This special episode is a treasure trove of insights and personal stories that reveal how the sentimental pull of our yesterdays can be more than a fleeting escape but a vibrant source of everyday joy and motivation.

In the company of cherished memories and the comforting craftwork of my grandmothers' hands, we explore the tender touch of nostalgia as a form of self-care. I'll share with you the charm of creating spaces that whisper tales of times gone by and the simple delights of childhood treats that still tempt the palate. We'll reflect on how vintage melodies, the soft glow of classic films, and the rich textures of old textiles can weave a warm blanket of solace around us. So, pull up a cozy chair, fill your cup with something warm, and let's pen our own powerful narratives, with nostalgia as the companion that lights the way through life's ever-shifting stories.

Raise your glasses and join the festivities as Carrie Saunders and I mark a milestone moment—the one-year anniversary of the 'Preserve your Past' podcast. As kindred spirits in storytelling, we take a stroll down memory lane, peppered with laughter and learning curves that have shaped our journey from a simple idea to a flourishing pair of podcasts. It's a celebration of the camaraderie that's grown between us, and a testament to the power of having that one person who champions you through every twist and turn in the world of podcasting and beyond.

Throughout this heartwarming episode, Carrie and I get candid about our partnership—one woven with threads of trust, flexibility, and mutual encouragement. We open up about how our alliance has been the bedrock of our personal growth and professional triumphs, and we don't shy away from discussing the emotional ebbs and flows that come with the territory. From battling perfectionism to embracing the beautiful messiness of creation, we're proof that the right support system is paramount in overcoming the arduous climb to success.

As we toast to the year gone by and the many more to come, we share our gratitude for the village that surrounds us—a community whose steadfast support is our guide through the ever-changing landscape of podcasting and new ventures on the horizon. This episode isn't just a look back at how far we've come; it's a beacon of hope for all the stories yet to be told, the laughter yet to be shared, and the growth that awaits us with open arms and hearts brimming with hope.

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

Imagine a space where the exchange of family history isn't just a pastime but a profound community experience.  Where inspiration flows freely. Join me, Melissa Kitchen, as I interview Barbara Tien and she introduces us all to Projectkin.org.

Barbara is the ringleader at the Projectkin community. She was one of the co-founders at Ponga.com where she was the product and customer champion. That experience gave her a deep understanding of the challenges of sharing stories with modern, connected software.
 
Today, she's focused on building Projectkin into a generous community where members can motivate and inspire each other with their family history projects of all kinds. The community freely shares creative inspiration, tips on tools, and “recipes” for proven projects created without regard to vendors or platforms.

Projectkin are hooked on stories and always looking to share what they've discovered in free online events, an interactive forum, and a new Members’ Corner to publish member stories.

For more general information on Projectkin, including their RootsTech activities go to https://projectkin.org/

http://projectkin.org/members-corner

Click here for all things RootsTech 2024 and to sign up for free!

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

Personal tokens of remembrance  lead us on our latest heartfelt exploration of transforming our sorrow into acts of kindness that resonate with the legacies of those who have passed. Join us as we share touching stories and creative ideas that remind us that our loved ones can continue to inspire and impact lives long after they've left us. Together, we'll uncover how to craft living tributes that not only preserve their memories but also propel us towards acts of generosity and compassion.

This conversation weaves through the motivations that propel us to memorialize those we've lost, from dedicating a playground that swings with the joy of a grandparent's spirit to establishing scholarships that ignite the passions they once held dear. We delve into how these symbols of remembrance serve as enduring beacons, guiding others through challenges while celebrating the essence of those we've admired. Tune in for an episode that promises not just an emotional journey, but a pathway to making a tangible difference in the community, in honor of those who've touched our hearts and shaped our lives.

See all 10 ideas in writing on the blog here!

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

When the O.J. Simpson chase hijacked my wedding eve, it became a timeless story that my family still chuckles about at gatherings. Now, imagine a cozy evening where you're sipping wine and exchanging tales of love that make you laugh, cry, and reminisce. On this episode of The Preserve the Past Podcast we're celebrating Valentine's Day by sharing the art of capturing and cherishing those heartwarming narratives that bind us together. From the 'how we met' anecdotes shared from multiple angles to the quirky traditions that hallmark our personal histories, I'll guide you through four compelling ways to document the love stories that are the essence of who we are.

Ever wonder how to keep the ember of memory glowing for generations to come? The second part of our storytelling sojourn takes us through a treasure trove of personal Valentine's Day traditions and the rich tapestry of questions that unveil the full panorama of a couple's proposal story. With an open invitation to share your own love-laden memories, this podcast is not just an episode but a heartfelt embrace of the tales that showcase our unique connections. Tune in for a dose of nostalgia, laughter, and tender reflections that will inspire you to preserve and pass down your own narratives of love and relationships.

Read the blog version here!

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

Every birthday holds a story, a slice of our personal history that weaves into the tapestry of who we are. Join me, Melissa Ann Kitchen, on a behind the scenes walk down memory lane, exploring the profound ways I've celebrated my special days and the rituals that bind me to my past. As I've faced birthdays without my parents, I've discovered the strength in savoring memories, from childhood parties to the cherished 'Van Choc Straw' ice cream tradition. This podcast is an invitation to reflect on your own past, to find joy in the photographs and mementos that tell your story, and to explore how we can bring these into our present celebrations.

The act of reminiscing is akin to time travel, a way to reconnect with old friends, and reignite the emotions that birthday celebrations evoke. I'll share the evolution of my birthdays, the rediscovery of Angel food cake with real whipped cream and strawberries, and the importance of preserving these narratives for generations. Whether it's recreating a treasured birthday traditions, or simply connecting to our memories of loved ones from the past, this episode is a testament to the power of our histories. I encourage you to document and celebrate your own traditions, ensuring that these precious moments remain a vibrant part of your legacy. So, let's get sentimental and find gratitude in the stories that shape us—it's not just a trip down memory lane, it's a journey that can enrich our present and brighten our future.

For more information on all of the items mentioned in this episode, head over to https://www.melissaannkitchen.com/blog

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

Join us as we weave through the fabric of our own stories, threading together the moments that define us with the art of timeline creation. Step into a world where each second tells a story, and learn how to etch your personal history or honor the journey of an ancestor with innovative and structured methods that breathe life into memories.

From the intimate 'day in the life' timelines that capture the essence of special occasions to the comprehensive life story timelines that chart the course from birth to the present, this episode gifts you the tools to leave a legacy as unique as the names and anecdotes behind it.

Join the Preserve Your Past Share Your Stories free Facebook Group here!

Have you ever considered how powerful the gift of a personalized story could be to the recipient? Join me, Melissa Ann Kitchen, on a heartfelt expedition as we explore the craft of turning personal narratives into timeless tributes. In this episode, we'll navigate through five creative methods to document  shared histories, ensuring the cherished moments with loved ones are immortalized. By writing and then gifting our shared stories we celebrate the nuances of life and the profound connections that shape our relationships.

As we reminisce about our beloved family and friends, we find that their characteristics, like the humor and resilience found in my brother, become integral threads in the tapestry of our own legacies. The stories we tell, such as the serendipitous meeting with my friend Michelle, are not just passing tales but pillars of our personal history. Together, we'll examine how crafting an acrostic poem or reflecting on shared moments can be a testament to the impact someone has had on our lives. Every narrative is an opportunity to honor those who have influenced us and to recognize the lasting imprint they have made on the world.

Embark with me on this narrative journey as we embrace the role of storytellers in preserving collective pasts. By documenting our experiences, we connect with our roots, enrich our present, and weave threads of wisdom for the future. As you listen, I hope you're inspired to pick up the pen—or keyboard—and join our mission of keeping personal stories alive. By sharing these narratives, we celebrate the legacies of those who have touched our hearts and ensure that their memories continue to inspire generations to come ... and that, my friend, is a priceless gift!

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

Have you ever felt the magnetic pull of your ancestors' stories, beckoning you to uncover the rich tapestry of your heritage? Sindi Terrien, research genealogist and author,  joins me to share the compelling interplay between personal narratives and the pursuit of our ancestral legacies. Together, we reminisce about the first experiences that sparked our genealogical curiosity and discuss the vibrant lifeline of family history that Sindi has managed to weave through her blog, "My Many Mothers," and her innovative publications.

Diving into our past isn't just about charting a family tree; it's about preserving the essence of who we are. This episode peels back the layers of time, revealing how family stories, holiday recipes, and even the soft lilt of a loved one's voice can be captured for posterity. We venture into the intimate process of storytelling, exploring how Sindi's passion for genealogy has taken shape in exciting ways—through published projects, genealogy activity books, and a treasured recipe that transformed into a children's story.

Finally, we acknowledge the bittersweet nature of uncovering our history, confronting tales of resilience, tragedy, and even scandal, such as the life of Marguerite Bouillet, a 17th-century ancestor with a story begging to be told. Join us as we open the vault of the past, discussing the importance of chronicling our journeys and the unexpected wisdom found within. Whether you're seeking to document your epic family saga or simply looking for inspiration to start writing down your own, let this conversation with Sindi Terrien ignite the spark to celebrate the unsung heroes of your lineage.

Check out Sindi's "My Many Mothers" blog here!

You can find Sindi's books on Amazon at these links:
Genealogy Fun While Developing New Genealogists
Fun with Genealogy: Activity Book 1

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!

Imagine transforming your stories from mere words on a page to a sensory-rich journey that captivates and lingers in the minds of readers. That's exactly what we're unpacking today – the secret to harnessing the five senses in your writing to create a deeply immersive experience. With anecdotes and examples, I guide you through the process of crafting vivid scenes that engage sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. This approach isn't just for writers; it's a vital tool for anyone looking to leave a legacy of memories that are as textured as life itself.

During our exploration, I share insights on how to effectively plan your stories and perform sensory exploration. By using visualization techniques, writers can create a 'sensory menu' that can be drawn upon to enrich their narratives. Whether you start with a first draft and layer in sensory details afterward or use your senses as the building blocks of your story from the get-go, the strategies discussed will ensure your writing process is both efficient and evocative. This methodical approach to storytelling not only heightens reader engagement but also aids in preserving the nuances of our histories.

As we wrap up this sensory adventure, the conversation turns to the transformative power of sensory imagery in connecting us to our collective past.  By sharing the podcast and participating in this storytelling journey, you're helping to keep alive the art of crafting narratives that resonate across generations. So, let's continue to celebrate our shared heritage through the power of vivid, sensory-rich stories.

This group is for people who are in the process of writing their own personal stories to preserve their past for their future. It’s a place to come for story writing inspiration, weekly writing-related events and memes, and continued support from me and the other members.

Join like-minded people and get your stories down on paper for your future generations!