“My story is boring” and other myths!

“My story is boring, and isn’t worth sharing” “My family isn’t really interested” “I’ve told my kids about my family history, so there’s no need to record it” These are some of the things I often hear from people when I ask what is stopping them from recording their life story and memories. But…I promise […]

Read more

Remember when…

You’re at a family dinner, and some old stories from “back in the day” are being shared. There’s one you’ve never heard before, so you make a mental note to write it down when you get home. Then you forget to do it. And the story risks being lost or diluted. I hear this often, […]

Read more

Festive family rituals and traditions

Most families have something special and unique to their family that they do every year around Christmas time. For example – my sister is the family table decorations maker (and shortbread baker!).  The photo below shows one of the lovely set she did last year.  The shortbread didn’t last long enough for a photo!  Maybe you have a chief […]

Read more

We thought we had more time…

This month’s blog article is especially relevant to Gen X who may be caring for an elderly parent or parents who have been given a terminal diagnosis.  I’m sharing 15 Gentle Questions to ask a loved one when time is short. It’s not easy to know what to ask or say when someone has a […]

Read more

Tell me your story Dad

The very words I wish I had said to him.  My Dad was my hero.  But I didn’t ask him this question before it was too late, and he wasn’t able to fully communicate with us. You may think you have all the time in the world, but sadly the reality is that you may […]

Read more

August is Family History Month

Let’s celebrate the stories of us! Calling all story‑keepers! Every August, genealogists, librarians and family historians around NZ celebrate Family  History  Month – four weeks devoted to discovering, honouring and sharing the memories that shaped us into who we are today. It’s a great opportunity to open up those old photo albums and ask those […]

Read more

How to Film a Life Story – Excerpt from ebook

On 1st May I released a new step-by-step ebook – How to Film a Life Story (with bonus video walk-through masterclass). In today’s blog I’m giving you a sneak peek into this ebook by sharing an excerpt from one of the chapters. The 41 page ebook (with practical exercises and BONUS video masterclass included) is […]

Read more

Saving life stories after a terminal diagnosis

When you know time is limited, the decision to create a life story documentary for a loved one or friend can be daunting. Faced with this situation, what would you do? Would you make it happen no matter what? Or would you put it off because it’s all too hard when someone is really sick? […]

Read more

What is a Death Doula?

How can they help you and your family when a loved one has been given a terminal diagnosis? The role of a Death Doula (aka End-of-Life Doula) is varied and depends on the needs of the client. It can range from helping with tasks for end of life planning and care, to taking care of […]

Read more

Open the stage curtain on your life

Telling your story is a bit like opening the stage curtain on your life. It’s often a cathartic experience as it focusses your mind on what really matters to you. It can help you realign with your values and resolve stuff, and even start to mend relationships. It’s not just about you You may feel […]

Read more