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High Desert
Raven Writing

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Unearth. Reflect. Connect. Transform.

About us

High Desert Raven Writing Guided Autobiography (GAB)
offers a transformative experience in personal
storytelling, helping individuals write their life
stories two pages at a time. Rooted in the celebrated
Guided Autobiography (GAB) method by gerontologist
Dr. James E. Birren, our approach is enhanced by the
Raven’s unique process: Unearth, Reflect, Connect, and Transform.

READ MORE

Popular Topics To Learn
With Bonus Action Steps

Nine Topics to Learn About Guided
Autobiography (GAB) and High Desert Raven Writing

Each topic showcases the transformative
potential of Guided Autobiography (GAB) and The Raven’s Method in a simple,
approachable way. Bonus call-to-action steps at the
end of each section encourage your immediate engagement, empowering
you to begin exploring the power of your stories and
easing yourself into the writing process.

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What is Guided Autobiography (GAB)?

Guided Autobiography is a structured writing process that helps you reflect on your life through themed writing exercises. It focuses on uncovering meaningful experiences and understanding how they’ve shaped your life. GAB encourages writing in short, focused chapters, making it accessible even if you don’t see yourself as a writer.

 

Bonus Action: Start by jotting down a short paragraph about a memory that taught you a life lesson.

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Introducing High Desert Raven Writing

High Desert Raven Writing weaves the principles of GAB with personal reflection techniques. This approach helps participants uncover hidden patterns in their stories and view their lives through a lens of clarity and self-discovery. It’s tailored for people who seek deeper connections with their past and future.

 

Bonus Action: Write about a place that feels like “home” to you and why it holds significance.

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The Raven’s Method: Unearth, Reflect, Connect, Transform

The Raven’s Method takes you on a four-step journey:

  • Unearth: Dig deep to uncover the memories that matter.

  • Reflect: Find meaning in those moments.

  • Connect: Discover how these stories shape your relationships and self-perception.

  • Transform: Use your insights to create a sense of purpose and direction.

 

Bonus Action: Choose one significant memory and write three sentences describing what happened, how you felt, and how it changed you.

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The Benefits of Guided Writing

Writing about your life can reduce stress, boost self-awareness, and strengthen your confidence. It’s a way to honor your journey, see how far you’ve come, and gain clarity on where you want to go next.

 

Bonus Action: Set a timer for 5 minutes and write about what you’re most
grateful for today.

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How Life Themes Help Organize Your Story

Life themes like “Family,” “Career,” or “Turning Points” help break your story into manageable pieces. Writing about one theme at a time allows you to focus on specific aspects of your life without feeling overwhelmed.

 

Bonus Action: Pick a theme (e.g., Friendship) and list three memories tied to it.

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Why Reflecting on the Past Creates Growth

Reflection helps you understand how your past experiences influence your present. By revisiting your stories, you gain perspective and see your strengths more clearly.

 

Bonus Action: Think of a challenge you’ve overcome. Write down how you grew because of it.

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Building Connections Through Shared Stories

Guided Autobiography is often done in groups, creating opportunities to share stories with others. This builds a sense of community, empathy, and validation. High Desert Raven Writing workshops are designed to foster these meaningful connections.

 

Bonus Action: Share a favorite childhood story with a friend or loved one.

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Transforming Self-Doubt Into Confidence

Many people think their stories aren’t worth sharing or fear they aren’t “good enough” writers. Guided writing transforms self-doubt into confidence by showing you the power of your unique voice.

 

Bonus Action: Write a positive affirmation about your story, such as, “My life experiences are valuable and worth sharing.”

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How to Get Started with Guided Autobiography

You don’t need fancy tools or years of writing experience to begin. All you need is a willingness to explore your life one memory at a time. Tools like The Raven’s Method guide you step-by-step through this journey.

 

Bonus Action: Commit to writing 100 words about your childhood today.

Popular Topics To Learn
With Bonus Action Steps

Nine Topics to Learn About Guided
Autobiography (GAB) and High Desert Raven Writing

Each topic showcases the transformative
potential of Guided Autobiography (GAB) and The Raven’s Method in a simple,
approachable way. Bonus call-to-action steps at the
end of each section encourage your immediate engagement, empowering
you to begin exploring the power of your stories and
easing yourself into the writing process.

null

What is Guided Autobiography (GAB)?

Guided Autobiography is a structured writing process that helps you reflect on your life through themed writing exercises. It focuses on uncovering meaningful experiences and understanding how they’ve shaped your life. GAB encourages writing in short, focused chapters, making it accessible even if you don’t see yourself as a writer.

 

Bonus Action: Start by jotting down a short paragraph about a memory that taught you a life lesson.

null

Introducing High Desert Raven Writing

High Desert Raven Writing weaves the principles of GAB with personal reflection techniques. This approach helps participants uncover hidden patterns in their stories and view their lives through a lens of clarity and self-discovery. It’s tailored for people who seek deeper connections with their past and future.

 

Bonus Action: Write about a place that feels like “home” to you and why it holds significance.

null

The Raven’s Method: Unearth, Reflect, Connect, Transform

The Raven’s Method takes you on a four-step journey:

  • Unearth: Dig deep to uncover the memories that matter.

  • Reflect: Find meaning in those moments.

  • Connect: Discover how these stories shape your relationships and self-perception.

  • Transform: Use your insights to create a sense of purpose and direction.

 

Bonus Action: Choose one significant memory and write three sentences describing what happened, how you felt, and how it changed you.

null

The Benefits of Guided Writing

Writing about your life can reduce stress, boost self-awareness, and strengthen your confidence. It’s a way to honor your journey, see how far you’ve come, and gain clarity on where you want to go next.

 

Bonus Action: Set a timer for 5 minutes and write about what you’re most
grateful for today.

null

How Life Themes Help Organize Your Story

Life themes like “Family,” “Career,” or “Turning Points” help break your story into manageable pieces. Writing about one theme at a time allows you to focus on specific aspects of your life without feeling overwhelmed.

 

Bonus Action: Pick a theme (e.g., Friendship) and list three memories tied to it.

null

Why Reflecting on the Past Creates Growth

Reflection helps you understand how your past experiences influence your present. By revisiting your stories, you gain perspective and see your strengths more clearly.

 

Bonus Action: Think of a challenge you’ve overcome. Write down how you grew because of it.

null

Building Connections Through Shared Stories

Guided Autobiography is often done in groups, creating opportunities to share stories with others. This builds a sense of community, empathy, and validation. High Desert Raven Writing workshops are designed to foster these meaningful connections.

 

Bonus Action: Share a favorite childhood story with a friend or loved one.

null

Transforming Self-Doubt Into Confidence

Many people think their stories aren’t worth sharing or fear they aren’t “good enough” writers. Guided writing transforms self-doubt into confidence by showing you the power of your unique voice.

 

Bonus Action: Write a positive affirmation about your story, such as, “My life experiences are valuable and worth sharing.”

null

How to Get Started with Guided Autobiography

You don’t need fancy tools or years of writing experience to begin. All you need is a willingness to explore your life one memory at a time. Tools like The Raven’s Method guide you step-by-step through this journey.

 

Bonus Action: Commit to writing 100 words about your childhood today.

Our Popular Courses

Class Levels

To help you select the right class, with some, they have been tiered
Beginner through Level 3. These levels reflect the number of themes
you will have in the class, not the difficulty of the class or ability
of the instructor. No matter where you are in your writing practice,
you are welcome to join or apply for any class unless a prerequisite
is noted.

Roots & Reflections: Exploring Your Story Through Genealogy and Guided Autobiography Intensive

$97.00

6 hours (1-day workshop)

Life Themes Unlocked: A Guided Autobiography Intensive

$125.00

1-day, 6-hour

Writing Memories: A Family Storytelling Workshop

$47.00

3-hour interactive workshop

Discover Your Story: A Guided Autobiography Beginner’s Course

$247.00

8 weekly sessions (2 hours each)

Your Story, One Chapter at a Time: Guided Autobiography Level 2

$497.00

12-week course

Level 3: Expanding Your Life Story Collection – Part 1 & Part 2

$475.00

20-week, 2-hour-per-session

Our Popular Courses

Class Levels

To help you select the right class, with some, they have been tiered
Beginner through Level 3. These levels reflect the number of themes
you will have in the class, not the difficulty of the class or ability
of the instructor. No matter where you are in your writing practice,
you are welcome to join or apply for any class unless a prerequisite
is noted.

Roots & Reflections: Exploring Your Story Through Genealogy and Guided Autobiography Intensive

$97.00

6 hours (1-day workshop)

Life Themes Unlocked: A Guided Autobiography Intensive

$125.00

1-day, 6-hour

Writing Memories: A Family Storytelling Workshop

$47.00

3-hour interactive workshop

Discover Your Story: A Guided Autobiography Beginner’s Course

$247.00

8 weekly sessions (2 hours each)

Your Story, One Chapter at a Time: Guided Autobiography Level 2

$497.00

12-week course

Level 3: Expanding Your Life Story Collection – Part 1 & Part 2

$475.00

20-week, 2-hour-per-session

Contact us

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    FAQ'S

    Frequently Asked Questions About Guided Autobiography and The Raven’s Method

    What is Guided Autobiography (GAB), and how does it work with The Raven’s Method?

    Guided Autobiography (GAB) is a structured approach to reflective writing that helps individuals explore their life stories through themes and prompts. The Raven’s Method expands on GAB by emphasizing four transformative steps:

    • Unearth: Discover meaningful memories and stories from your past.

    • Reflect: Delve into the emotions, lessons, and significance of those memories.

    • Connect: Relate your insights to your present life and relationships.

    • Transform: Use your newfound understanding to inspire growth and positive change.

    This method provides both structure and creative freedom, making it accessible to all, whether you’re part of a High Desert Raven Writing workshop or working independently.

    Who can benefit from Guided Autobiography and The Raven’s Method?

    Anyone can benefit from this process! Guided Autobiography is particularly impactful for:

    • Individuals seeking self-reflection or personal growth

    • Those looking to preserve family stories or create a written legacy

    • Participants in workshops offered by High Desert Raven Writing

    • People navigating life transitions or searching for deeper meaning

    Using The Raven’s Method, participants not only tell their stories but also transform their understanding of themselves and their lives.

    Do I need to be a skilled writer to benefit from Guided Autobiography?

    Not at all! Guided Autobiography and The Raven’s Method are designed for everyone, regardless of writing ability. The focus is on unearthed memories and reflections, not on polished prose. The workshops of High Desert Raven Writing offer supportive environments to help you express yourself authentically.

    Can I share my Guided Autobiography
    with others?

    Yes, sharing is an important part of the Connect step in The Raven’s Method. Whether you’re participating in a High Desert Raven Writing workshop or writing independently, sharing your story can strengthen relationships and create new perspectives. However, sharing is always optional and done on your terms.

    Can Guided Autobiography be
    therapeutic?

    Absolutely! Writing about life experiences is inherently therapeutic. The Raven’s Methodenhances this by helping you:

    • Unearth memories that hold emotional weight

    • Reflect on how those experiences have shaped you

    • Connect your story to your current identity and relationships

    • Transform your perspective, reframing challenges into opportunities for growth

    Many participants find the process both healing and empowering.

    How is Guided Autobiography different from traditional autobiography writing?

    Traditional autobiography often aims to tell your whole life story in chronological order. Guided Autobiography (GAB), especially through The Raven’s Method, focuses on specific themes, such as turning points, family relationships, or personal values. The process encourages you to unearth and reflect on pivotal life events while creating meaningful connections between past experiences and present growth.

    How do the four steps of The Raven’s Method apply to Guided Autobiography?

    • Unearth: Prompts guide you to uncover stories you may have forgotten.

    • Reflect: Writing exercises encourage deeper thinking about those memories.

    • Connect: Sharing your story in a group or with loved ones fosters new perspectives.

    • Transform: The process helps you reframe past challenges into sources of strength and inspiration.

    These steps make GAB more than just writing—it’s a journey of self-discovery.

    What kinds of prompts are included in Guided Autobiography?

    Prompts in Guided Autobiography often focus on life themes such as:

    • A turning point in your life

    • A memory of resilience or growth

    • A meaningful relationship or event

    In The Raven’s Method, these prompts are tools to unearth personal insights and reflect on how those experiences connect to your present and future.

    What are the benefits of using The Raven’s Method in Guided Autobiography?

    By following the four steps of Unearth, Reflect, Connect, and Transform, The Raven’s Methodoffers unique benefits, including:

    • Gaining clarity about your life’s purpose

    • Discovering connections between past experiences and present values

    • Healing and growth through storytelling

    • Creating a lasting legacy for future generations

    Workshops offered by High Desert Raven Writing help you fully experience these benefits by providing structure, prompts, and support.

    How do I get started with Guided Autobiography and The Raven’s Method?

    Start by joining a High Desert Raven Writing workshop or exploring resources like writing prompts and themed guides. Guided Autobiography courses and books can also help you learn the basics. To dive deeper, use The Raven’s Method to approach your writing with intention, focusing on unearthed memories, reflection, and personal transformation.

    Charting Your Story: Personalized Life Writing Consultations

    Introductory Rate: $100–$150 for a 60 or 90-minute session (one-time consult).

    Ongoing Packages:

    $300–$500 for three sessions (60–90 minutes each).

    $1000+ for long-term support (customizable).

    Description:

    High Desert Raven Writing offers personalized one-on-one consultations to help you craft your life story with confidence. Together, we will design a process tailored to your needs—whether you are just starting out, need inspiration, or want consistent support to stay on track.

    Services include:

    • Brainstorming and planning your life story.

    • Weekly prompts and progress check-ins.

    • Strategies for building momentum and overcoming writer’s block.

    • Custom guidance based on your goals, interests, and pace.

    Each session focuses on meeting you where you are, providing a supportive space to explore and express your story authentically. We can schedule sessions as needed or develop a more structured plan to guide your journey.

    Start creating the story only you can tell, with guidance every step of the way.

    Birdsong Beginnings: Free Writing Classes with High Desert Raven Writing

    Want to dip your toes in the birdbath and see what High Desert Raven Writing is all about? Join us for two weeks of free, no-commitment classes designed to help you spread your creative wings.

    Discover your creative home while exploring hands-on writing exercises, lively craft discussions, and supportive feedback. Each session introduces you to The Raven’s Method—our unique approach to Unearth, Reflect, Connect, and Transform your stories—through our signature workshop style.

    Whether you’re new to writing or want to rejuvenate your practice, this is your chance to test the waters, meet our flock, and let your stories take flight. Ready to see where your writing journey begins?

    Raven Rise & Write: Catch the Inspiration Early

    Commit to Your Creative Practice in 2025

    Daily Writing Sessions to Establish Your Routine

    Are your ideas slipping by without getting any writing done? Make 2025 the year you change your writing into a consistent and creative practice.

    Join Raven Rise, a supportive, hour-long weekday Free Write program throughout January. Starting at 8 a.m. every weekday, these sessions provide the accountability and structure to help you build a sustainable writing habit before the demands of the day take over.

    All writing levels welcome

    Flexible payment options (Pay what you can: $95, $47.50, $25, $10, or free!)

    No meeting on January 20 – Inauguration Day

    Start your mornings with focus, creativity, and connection to a community of writers. Whether you choose to leave your camera on or off, you’ll find a judgment-free space to write, reflect, and transform.

    If there is enough interest, this program may continue beyond January. Reach out for details.

    Ready to author your story? Reserve your spot now and make 2025 the year of your writing practice!

    The High Desert 10-Workshop Package

    Life Stories Unfolded: A 10-Workshop Guided Autobiography Experience

    Uncover the story treasures of your life with our 10-Workshop Guided Autobiography Package. Designed to help you explore your past, reflect on pivotal moments, and gain clarity for the future, these workshops are a journey of self-discovery and connection.

    Each workshop focuses on key life themes to help you create a rich, meaningful narrative of your life—one chapter at a time. With expert facilitation, guided prompts, and engaging exercises, you will reflect, write, and share in a supportive group setting.

    What’s Included in This 10-Workshop Package:

    1. New Beginnings: Mapping Your Journey

    Explore early milestones, firsts, and turning points that shaped your path.

    1. The Heart of Who You Are

    Dive into your values, beliefs, and the core of your identity.

    1. Life’s Turning Points: Choices That Shape Us

    Reflect on the decisions that defined your journey and shaped your perspective.

    1. The Ties That Bind: Stories of Connection

    Celebrate the relationships, friendships, and communities that support you.

    1. Body, Mind, Spirit: The Journey to Wellness

    Explore moments of resilience and develop a self-care plan for balance and renewal.

    1. The Seasons of Change: Navigating Life’s Transitions

    Reflect on life’s transitions and the lessons they bring.

    1. Inner Reflections: Lessons and Insights

    Unearth the wisdom hidden in life’s challenges and triumphs.

    1. Finding Your Compass: Gaining Clarity Through Reflection

    Gain insight into your guiding principles and inner wisdom.

    1. The Art of Celebration: Honoring Milestones

    Reflect on life’s joys and victories, big and small.

    1. Charting the Road Ahead: Imagining Your Future

    Envision your next chapter with clarity and purpose.

    Who Is This For?

    This package is perfect for anyone who wants to:

    • Reflect on their life experiences with intention.

    • Gain new insights into their values, choices, and relationships.

    • Build connection and community through shared storytelling.

    • Create a legacy of written memories for themselves or loved ones.

    What You’ll Receive:

    • 10 workshops tailored to 50 specific life themes.

    • Guided writing prompts, engaging exercises, and time for reflection.

    • A supportive, eased group experience where you can share and connect.

    • Access to materials for continued writing after each session.

    Special Offer: $800 ($1500.00 value) for All 10 Workshops

    Sign up now to begin your journey of self-discovery, connection, and transformation.

    Start your storytelling adventure today!

    Writing the Threads of Your Life: A 2-Week Guided Autobiography Experience

    Dive into a meaningful two-week journey of self-discovery and storytelling. Meeting every weekday, Monday through Friday, for two hours a day, this immersive workshop will guide you through exploring key life themes and uncovering the threads that weave together your personal narrative. Through thought-provoking prompts, collaborative discussions, and focused writing time, you’ll transform memories into compelling stories. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have written a collection of personal chapters that honor your journey and gained tools to continue authoring your story.

    Pricing:

    Standard Enrollment: $297

    Early Bird Discount: $247

    VIP Package: $347 Includes a 30-minute private coaching session where we will address challenges, clarify themes, and answer questions.

    Level 3: Expanding Your Life Story Collection

    This 20-week, 2-hour-per-session course builds upon the foundation shown in Course 1 and Course 2 of the High Desert Raven Writing (HDRW) program. Designed for those who have completed the beginner and Level 2 course, Level 3 takes your storytelling journey deeper with fresh themes and an evolved instructional approach.

    While the course introduces 20 potential life themes, not all may resonate universally with participants, allowing you to tailor the experience to your personal story and values.

    Each session follows the familiar structure of exploring themes in the first hour, paired with group story-sharing during the second hour. This format fosters community, reflective growth, and creative inspiration. By the end of the course, you will have written up to 20 added life stories, further enriching your personal narrative archive. However, the course also emphasizes that storytelling is a lifelong process with infinite possibilities.

    Grounded in the principles and research of Guided Autobiography, this advanced-level course continues to inspire personal transformation, connection, and self-discovery through the power of storytelling.

    Pricing :

    Standard Pricing: $475 for the full course

    Installment Option: $45/week or $150/month for 4 months

    Important Note: Completion of Discover Your Story: A Guided Autobiography Beginner’s Course and Your Story, One Chapter at a Time: Guided Autobiography Level 2 is needed to enroll in this advanced course.

    Your Story, One Chapter at a Time: Guided Autobiography Level 2

    This 12-week advanced Guided Autobiography course is for individuals who have completed Discover Your Story: A Guided Autobiography Beginner’s Course and want to deepen their reflective writing journey.

    Guided by The Raven’s Method—Unearth, Reflect, Connect, and Transform—this course delves into 25 new life themes, offering fresh opportunities to explore untold moments and gain deeper insights.

    In this course, you will:

    • Draft a new story each week based on prompts designed to inspire deeper self-discovery.
    • Explore patterns and themes that have shaped your journey through reflective exercises and storytelling.
    • Share your stories in a supportive, structured group setting to build meaningful connections with others.
    • Learn advanced techniques to enrich your reflective writing and create cohesive, meaningful narratives.

    Whether you aim to preserve your history for loved ones, uncover new perspectives, or simply enjoy the process of writing, this course provides a safe and inspiring space to continue your story.

    Course Pricing: $497 for the 12-week course (includes weekly group sessions, guided writing prompts, and access to curated resources).

    Important Note: Completion of Discover Your Story: A Guided Autobiography Beginner’s Course is required to enroll in this advanced course

    Discover Your Story: A Guided Autobiography Beginner’s Course

    This 8-week beginner’s course introduces you to the transformative process of Guided Autobiography (GAB) and The Raven’s Method. Perfect for anyone ready to start writing their life stories, the course provides a welcoming and supportive environment to explore 10 key life themes, reflect on meaningful experiences, and begin documenting your journey. Through guided writing exercises, structured prompts, and group sharing, you will gain confidence in your storytelling, uncover connections between your past and present, and take the first steps toward creating your personal legacy. No prior writing experience is needed—just a desire to begin your story.

    Duration and Pricing:

    8 weekly sessions (2 hours each)

    $247 per participant

    Writing Memories: A Family Storytelling Workshop

    Do you have cherished holiday traditions, a favorite recipe with a story behind it, or a memory you have been meaning to share? This 3-hour interactive workshop helps you preserve these moments and turn them into meaningful stories to share with your loved ones.

    Through creative activities designed to spark inspiration, you will outline, write, and share a memory story in a supportive environment. Whether creating a keepsake for family or writing for yourself, this workshop is an opportunity to celebrate traditions, connect across generations, and capture lasting memories.

    Perfect for individuals or family members, this session is ideal for anyone wanting to preserve family stories and create meaningful connections anytime of the year.

    Pricing: $47 per participant or $75 for two.

    Great Gift Idea:

    Give the gift of storytelling for any celebration. This workshop makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones who enjoy storytelling, family history, or creative projects.

    Life Themes Unlocked: A Guided Autobiography Intensive

    $125.00 per participant.

    Life Themes Unlocked: A Guided Autobiography Intensive" is a dynamic, 1-day, 6-hour workshop designed to jumpstart your journey into life story writing. Perfect for those with busy schedules and a passion for self-expression, this workshop introduces you to 10 foundational life themes—each offering a lens through which to explore and reflect on pivotal moments of your life.

    During the workshop, each theme is presented with prompts and examples to spark inspiration. You will then engage in 10–15 minutes of focused brainstorming, crafting initial thoughts, memories, and ideas. In a supportive and collaborative environment, participants briefly share their insights, gaining valuable perspectives and encouragement from the group. This process builds confidence and momentum as you move through each theme.

    By the end of the day, you will walk away with an organized set of ideas and outlines—perfect starting points for writing compelling 2-page (or longer) stories on each theme at your own pace. Whether you are just beginning or looking for inspiration to continue, this workshop will empower you to unearth the stories that matter most.

    Ideal for:

    • Busy, motivated individuals who want to write, but need guidance to begin.
    • Those seeking a supportive group setting to spark creativity and reflection.
    • Anyone ready to document their life stories independently after the workshop.

    Roots & Reflections: Exploring Your Story Through Genealogy and Guided Autobiography Intensive

    Discover the power of family history and storytelling in this immersive 1-day workshop, Roots & Reflections: Exploring Your Story Through Genealogy and Guided Autobiography. Designed for beginners, this course combines reflective writing with the essentials of tracing your roots. Through engaging activities and expert guidance, you will learn how to draft meaningful personal stories, uncover your family’s heritage, and integrate both into a compelling narrative. Leave with a deeper understanding of your unique journey, practical genealogy tools, and inspiration to continue exploring your story.

    Duration: 6 hours (1-day workshop)

    Pricing: $97 per participant

    Special Offer: Start your journey into Guided Autobiography today! Regularly priced at $97, this transformative experience is now available for a limited time at just $75. Don’t miss this opportunity to save while discovering the power of your story.