“Thank you so much for a great workshop. It's clear that you are doing what you're meant to be doing. What an amazing gift you're sharing with all of us. I think the greatest thing that I've learned so far is that so much is gained from the process of writing, even more than the work that's produced at the end of it. It has allowed me to connect with parts of myself and others in my family that I never otherwise would have.” —Elizabeth Mirarchi
I put a lot of thought into planning my writing workshop, “Tell the Story of Your Ancestors.” A lot of thought and a lot of care. The video above is of the booklet participants receive, along with me packaging it with beauty in mind before mailing it off. Of course, it matters to me, and I know it matters to you, too, that the things we hold be beautiful.
I've been home with a newborn these past weeks, adjusting to life as a mother of two and trying to soak up all the moments, despite the demands and lack of sleep. I know this time is fleeting. But even with that on my plate, I'm eager to share the work that inspires me; work that I truly believe has transformative power. So I’m thrilled to share that I’m opening enrollment for a winter writing retreat, where we'll explore ancestry, culture and personal history through readings, writings and thoughtful conversation.
The first workshop for “Tell the Story of Your Ancestors,” which sold out in less than a week, took place this past September, and it was full of wonderful moments where participants made deep connections between their ancestors and themselves. They had revelations, discovering approaches to gathering and writing the story of the people who came before them in ways they hadn't imagined before. The participants connected to their family stories and to one another.
I can't think of a better Christmas gift to give to yourself—or to someone you love—than a seat at this workshop. What an inspiring way to kick off the new year.
The winter session will be held on Saturday, February 3rd from 10 am to noon Eastern Time, and Saturday, February 10th from 10 am to noon Eastern Time, via Zoom, so you can join no matter where in the country you live.
The work done in this writing retreat is a gift that keeps on giving: You'll be putting down the stories of your ancestry not only for yourself, but for generations after you, and discovering who you, and they, are made of. This work heals. This work illuminates.
Here's what just a few of the participants had to say in their own words:
“Yesterday, after our session, I experienced such an onslaught of emotions. You did a fantastic job. You have the ideal amount of passion, sincerity and finesse to guide and to encourage your students. It was amazing how a group of 'strangers' could share the most intimate of thoughts and feelings, but we really are not strangers, just kindred souls. It was a wonderful and invigorating experience! Honestly, Dolores, thank you so very much for taking the plunge with "Telling the Story of Your Ancestors." I am so very happy that I stepped out of my comfort zone to experience this workshop with you.” —Christina Pedota Polidore
"For me, this feels so healing. It is another way to keep my father's memory alive. An aspect of this workshop that I found extremely effective was all of the individualized feedback you were able to give each participant. The changes I was able to make from week one to week two would never have happened without all of your feedback….Throughout the two weeks, it was so clear how much thought and attention to detail you put into this workshop, and it was truly an honor to get to be a part of the first one. I will miss seeing you all on Saturday mornings, but I am very excited to have new friends to keep in touch with!" —Jennifer DuPont
"You've given me such a gift, Dolores. I hope you realize how special and impactful the work you're doing is, and how grateful I am to you.” —Samantha LaPointe
In this workshop, held over the course of two consecutive Saturday mornings, we'll explore the following:
How to write about ancestors you knew or know stories about.
How to write about ancestors you didn’t know & know little about.
How to use photography, art & objects in your storytelling.
How to write your own story into the greater narrative.
How to write well.
Approaches to narrative.
Approaches to research.
And so much more....
You can learn more about the workshop here: www.bellafigurapodcast.com/workshops
You can register for your spot here: www.bellafigurapodcast.com/register (Please, when submitting payment, be sure to tag the transaction as “payments between friends.")
I hope you’ll usher in a New Year along with me; grab a hot cup of coffee or tea, and join me for two Saturday mornings in February as we connect with our roots, our culture and our people.
All my best,
Dolores