My writing coach Ann Kroeker, in her terrific membership program called Your Platform Matters, recently asked the question, “Why did you decide to start writing?” I was surprised how much I had to really dig into my memory bank to give an honest answer, but I’m glad I did. It reminded me that the journey […]
Note and Letter Writing
The Big Reveal: Heartspoken’s Book Cover and News
Tah-Dah…Drumroll…Curtains up… I am so thankful to everyone who has weighed in with comments, suggestions, poll votes, and general support. I think the Koehler Books graphic design team did a great job of capturing what my book is all about and rendering it as an eye-catching, easy-to-read cover that quickly conveys the book’s purpose. Foreword […]
Book Review: How To Write Heartfelt Letters To Treasure
One of the joys of writing my book HEARTSPOKEN: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire, has been finding and getting to know other writers who share my love for handwritten notes. They always have their own perspectives and stories to share, and the author of this book, Lynette M. Smith, was […]
After The Casseroles Are Gone
Most of us are pretty good about sending sympathy notes or taking casseroles to a friend we know who has recently experienced the loss of a loved one. An online friend is coming up on the two-year anniversary of her son’s death, and it is a stark reminder that the pain of loss doesn’t ever […]
Does a Personal Note Have to be Handwritten?
There are many times when etiquette and custom and sentimentality call for a handwritten note whenever possible. There is something so much more personal—more intimate—more special about going to the trouble to write something by hand, especially thank you notes and sympathy notes. The receivers of handwritten notes say they love just holding them, re-reading […]
Are You A Faithful Writer?
You might be surprised to realize you’re not only a writer, but you’re a faithful writer. Do you find inspiration in strange places? Have you ever awakened in the middle of the night with someone on your mind or something you feel compelled to do? Have you ever had an idea bubble up in your […]
Note Writing Can Heal The Sender Too
Once asked what action he would recommend if a person were to feel a nervous breakdown coming on, famed American psychiatrist Karl Menninger (1893-1990) replied: “Lock up your house, go across the railroad tracks, and find someone in need and do something for him.” One more reason to write personal notes! Over time, I’ve […]
Tragedy Requires A Soft Touch
NOTE from Elizabeth: So many of my note-writing friends have expressed a lack of confidence when writing sympathy notes, especially when the death involves a child, suicide, or other challenging circumstances. I am enormously grateful to Patricia Alcamo Choruzy, who bravely shared her perspective on the death of her son from an overdose in this […]