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!