FIRST MONDAY, FIRST PERSON
at Pinney Library
Next Meeting: June 1
Join me for this free monthly event for reminiscence writers. Sign up on arrival to read on a first-come, first-served basis, and receive group feedback from like-minded people. Readings should be about 5-7 minutes long, true, and yours to tell. Listeners welcome as well as readers.
When: First Monday of every month (except holidays), from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Join us in person at the Pinney Library Community Room, 516 Cottage Grove Rd.
Free. No advance registration required. Food and beverages are welcome!
Want to see what kind of stories are shared? Visit my blog, True Stories Well Told.
Summer 2026
From the World of Guided Autobiography
Guided Autobiography (GAB) is a structured approach that involves delving into one’s life story with the guidance of a trained facilitator. It offers individuals an opportunity to deeply reflect on and chronicle significant life experiences, enabling them to gain valuable insight, perspective, and a richer understanding of their personal journey. The Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies trains and certifies instructors to teach Guided Autobiography and other courses that reflect the GAB methodology of learning, writing from prompts, and actively listening to one another’s life stories. The sessions occur in small groups, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collective experience among the participants. The GAB method places more emphasis on self-development than writing craft. You are in complete control of what you write and share; no one is pressured to read more than they are comfortable sharing with the group.
The Birren Center has recently begun training instructors in several new courses. “Shaking the Family Tree” is one of them. I was one of the co-creators of this curriculum.
As an instructor with over 20 years’ experience leading reminiscence writing programs, I have seen how this method brings joy, healing, and creative expression. Participants in my workshops also have opportunities to publish their work through my blog True Stories Well Told, and in the Birren Center’s annual anthologies.
Shaking the Family Tree:
Exploring Family History Through Story
In Person, offered through Madison College, 5 weeks starting June 25. Thursdays 5:30-7:30 pm.
Explore your family history through storytelling rather than genealogy alone. Using reflective exercises and focused craft lessons adapted from Guided Autobiography (a reflective writing method that uses prompts to spark meaningful stories), you’ll transform memories of parents, grandparents, and beyond into vivid personal narratives. Each week highlights a new theme, from cultural roots to family traditions, while building skills in description, structure, and voice. Leave with a portfolio of stories and greater confidence as a writer.
When: Thursdays 5:30-7:30 pm, 6/25-7/23
Where: Truax Campus, Protective Services Building
Fee: $115
To Register: Follow this link or call 608.258.2301, Option 2, and register for class #12221
Have you ever dreamed of writing in Italy?
I do… and I’m planning to participate in Sheila Bender and Brenda Miller’s “Writing It Real” retreat in Lake Garda, September 26 – October 3, 2026. Shall we make it a party? More info at this link.
Intrigued? Got questions, ideas, or a bucket list item to fulfill? Let’s talk.
For Guided Autobiography Instructors
Shaking the Family Tree: Over six weeks you’ll learn to teach this popular curriculum that assists workshop participants to locate, recall, and write the histories of their families. Participants are encouraged to look for lost family culture and traditions embedded in their histories. What will you leave in the past, incorporate into the present, or leave for future generations?
Will be offered in Summer 2026: Check the Birren Center website for specifics.
Cost: $450 (includes a contribution to the Birren Center). Receive certification to teach.
Registration limited to 10. Contact me to register.
Find Your Students, Fill Your Classes: Over six weeks you’ll create a personalized Marketing Action Plan for six months of activity. Each session helps you craft your elevator pitch, social media messages, and other outreach tools, using templates and peer support. You’ll never again feel stuck about what to say or where to start.
Will be offered in Summer 2026: Check the Birren Center website for specifics.
Cost: $300 (includes a contribution to the Birren Center).
Registration limited to 10. Contact me to register.
Workshops not for you?
Try individualized memoir coaching
I help you write and share your life stories, coaching you as you write a compelling story from your memories. Throughout, I’m at your side to help you get started and stay motivated. Print-on-demand makes it possible to share your story with just a small circle or offer it to the world.
Intrigued? Got questions? I have answers! Let’s talk.