Category Archives: creative nonfiction

Now is the Prime Time…for Writing Your Family History!

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Do you have a great family story you have been wanting to share? Have you put off sharing your research in narrative format because it’s too difficult, you don’t have time, or don’t know how to begin? 

Or perhaps you are even thinking, “I’m enjoying summer…I can’t concentrate on writing now!”  
Well, now is the prime time to stop planning and start writing!  We are less than six months away from the holiday season, and if you are hoping to share the gift of a family history book this year, the earlier you start writing, the more time you will have to produce something your relatives will read and cherish!

Thank you to Thomas MacEntee (Abundant Genealogy) for creating the graphic

The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive online course will set you up for success. Click here to register now and save 30%. Normally $129.00, now just $89.00 through July 31, 2018.  Use code sunny18at checkout.

And the best part is you can take advantage of the summer sale price NOW, and start writing later, whenever you have more time and are ready to commit to writing.


What is the Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive?

The Write Stuff: Build Your Family History Writing Skills experience consists of an online self-paced instruction. You can start and complete the course whenever it is most convenient for your schedule. You will be guided through practical assignments with videos and resources for each topic and have access to a private Facebook group where you can interact with your writing coach and fellow family history writers and receive feedback. 
This results-driven course will take you through the basics of jumpstarting your writing project through goal-setting, finding your focus, creating a storyboard and working on writing profiles and longer narratives.

Would You Like Success Like THIS?

Since 2014, The Write Stuff intensives have helped and inspired family historians to write, publish, and share their stories.  For example, Melissa R. published a family booklet after taking the course, and had a genealogical organization ask to reprint her work. Another student, Steve C. had the story he drafted during The Write Stuff included in the RootsTech 2018 Photo+Story contest. 

After taking The Write Stuff, Kathy N. was empowered to publish a family history book and says “Your gentle guidance and a supportive group helped me see that I am indeed a writer!”

Lisa Alzo with Kathy N. who published a family history book from The Write Stuff course


Key Goals of the Course

  • Learn writing skills and techniques to produce a quality family history; build on the skills each week. 
  • Focus on getting a working draft.
  • Work at your own pace.
  • Receive constructive and helpful feedback.
  • Overcome fears and anxiety about writing.
  • Have fun!

Start Whenever You Are Ready!

There is no official start or end date for the Write Stuff course, so you can work at your own pace and still receive valuable feedback on your writing from your coach!
Through online instructional sessions, weekly assignments, and collaboration with other participants, you will have access to an instructor with more than 28 years’ experience, who will teach you about key nonfiction writing techniques you can use to produce a “can’t put down” family history that will keep the pages turning for generations.

NOTE: While Facebook is not required, participants will reap the most benefits from the collaborative environment by accessing the Facebook Group for The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive. 

What Family Historians Are Saying About The Write Stuff

Since 2014, The Write Stuff intensives have helped and inspired family historians to write, publish, and share their stories. Several participants have even seen success with self-publishing or with having their works featured in society newsletters and family history displays.

“Those who take The Write Stuff series will gain skills in writing their family history from the idea to completion. Lessons and assignments are in manageable segments; feedback is supportive. I completed a family booklet and, unexpectedly, a genealogical organization asked to reprint my work, thanks to the tools and guidance provided by the course.” – Melissa R.

“Lisa Alzo’s Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive introduced me to tools I had not used before which helped in every aspect of my writing projects. One of the projects I wrote during the course received the best response thus far from my blog readers and an excerpt of the story was selected to be displayed at RootsTech 2018 as part of the CONNECT-BELONG-FAMILY-HERITAGE Photo+Story Competition. In addition to improving my genealogy blogging, I found my writing to be more clearly focused and better structured. I would highly recommend Lisa’s courses for anyone looking to go beyond just dates and facts to tell the stories of their ancestors.” – Steve C.

“The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive” has boosted my confidence as a writer. Before I joined the “Intensive”, I was really stuck on a project I’d been working on for over two years. I couldn’t decide on the best format to use or how to cite my many, many sources properly. Through the “Intensive” I gained new skills and developed new habits which helped me break through my writer’s block. The weekly lessons kept me focused and motivated to keep working. Lisa was so helpful and responsive to my many questions. Being part of a community of fellow writers was a great experience!” – Deb H.

“Your Write Stuff Seminar empowered me to write my family history. Your gentle guidance and a supportive group helped me see that I am indeed a writer! I appreciated the weekly meetings, the prompts, and the opportunity to share my work with others. And I loved exploring the variety of forms one’s family history might take. You inspired me to express myself and in so doing leave a family legacy. Thank you Lisa.” – Kathy N.

Special Offer: Get a FREE CONSULTATION with expert Lisa Alzo

In addition to saving 30% off the regular price, I am making this special offer: the first 15 students to register will receive one free 15-minute one-on-one consultation with me (via Skype, FaceTime or Phone).

So, take advantage of the long summer days and dedicate some time to finishing that family history! 

For more information and to register, click here. and remember to use promo code sunny18 at checkout to save 30%! Sale valid through Tuesday, July 31st.


Copyright 2018, Lisa A. Alzo 
All Rights Reserved

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Five Free Scrivener Resources to Help You Share Your Stories

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Are you struggling with writing your family history? Looking for a tool that can streamline the process? 

If you haven’t yet tried Scrivener–a multifaceted writing and project management tool that you can use to plan, organize, and write your family history–then perhaps 2018 is the year you will want to take it for a test drive. 

It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Scrivener, developed by the company Literature and Latte.  I started using Scrivener back in 2011 and first mentioned its usefulness as a writing tool for genealogists in a webinar for Legacy Family Tree Webinars in 2011. I frequently present on how to use Scrivener at genealogy conferences and for webinars.

I have rounded up a list of five FREE Scrivener resources to help you get started so you can share your stories. Three of the resources are products I have created and the remaining two are general resources.

1. Scrivener Software Free Trial.  You can try Scrivener for free for 30 days (and that is 30 days of actual use, not calendar days). And if you decide you like it, and wish to buy the full version, I have a special discount code for you.

Use LisaAlzo at checkout to save 20% off of your purchase of a regular license using the links below:

Scrivener for Mac

Scrivener for Windows

The coupon is NOT valid for Scrivener for iOS (iPhone/iPad). Learn more here.

2. Storyboard Your Family History with Scrivener. Get a basic overview of how to use Scrivener to create a visual outline (storyboard) for all of your writing projects. Click here to access the free presentation and accompanying handout.

3. Scrivener for Genealogists Facebook Group. Interact with fellow genealogists who use Scrivener in a closed Facebook group. In Facebook, search for Scrivener for Genealogists and send a request to join.

4. Scrivener Handouts and Templates. Visit the Free Scrivener Resources page on my website to download the free handout “25 Scrivener Hacks Every Genealogist Should Know“ and the free Ancestor Profile Scrivener template.

5. Free Previews: Scrivener for Genealogists Webinar Series – Legacy Family Tree Webinars. If you are a bonus member of Family Tree Webinars ($49.95 per year), you can watch the five full-length webinars I presented on Scrivener.  You can preview a snippet of each one on Legacy, but must be a bonus subscriber to watch the recordings in their entirety.

 Other Resources

Scrivener QuickSheets (PDF) – Because I want you to love using Scrivener as much as I do, I am discounting my popular Scrivener for Genealogists QuickSheet (you can choose Mac or Windows) – Save 50% through 24 January 2018.

Click here to purchase the Mac version PDF – use coupon code: scrivmac50

Click here to purchase the Windows version PDF – use coupon code: scrivwin50

The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive. Put your writing plan into action through my six-week course that you can start and complete whenever it is most convenient for your schedule. In Week 2, participants are encouraged to use Scrivener to create a storyboard for their writing project. For the month of January, I am offering a $40.00 discount off the regular price. Learn more here.  Use coupon code: writenow to get your discount.


With so many free resources available, there are plenty of ways to learn more about Scrivener. I know once I started using it my writing productivity soared!  Now I can’t imagine starting any writing project without it!

[Disclosure: Thank you for supporting The Accidental Genealogist by using the affiliate links on this website. While I receive a small commission if you click on a link and make a purchase, this does not increase the cost to you in any way. See my full disclosure page for more information.]
Copyright, 2018, Lisa A. Alzo, All Rights Reserved
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Are You Ready to Write Your Family History in 2018?

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Is writing a family history one of your goals for 2018?  Are you ready to compile all those years of research into a compelling narrative? Need a project to complete while waiting for your DNA test results to arrive? The New Year is the perfect time to dive in and share those family stories!


My popular course, The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive–a six-week writing workshop will show you how!  Click here to register before 31 December 2017 to save over 30% off the regular price: Normally $129.00, now just $89.99 – Use code NYEWRITE at checkout.

What is The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive?

Are you excited about (or perhaps even a little obsessed with) the idea of getting your family history down in writing? Maybe you have self-doubts and fears about how to get started, what to write, and how to put it all together in a compelling way? If so, then this workshop is for you! During this six-week intensive, you will learn the key steps for producing a quality family history narrative from outline to finished product, ways to use “storyboarding” to plot your project, and how to build your writing skills, as well as your confidence as a writer. In addition, you will receive helpful tips, project management tools, and a productivity toolbox to help keep you on track.
Start Whenever You are Ready
There is no official start or end date for the Write Stuff workshop, so you can work at your own pace and still receive valuable feedback on your writing from your coach!
Through online instructional sessions, weekly assignments, and collaboration with other participants, you will have access to an instructor with more than 27 years’ experience, who will teach you about key nonfiction writing techniques you can use to produce a “can’t put down” family history that will keep the pages turning for generations.

NOTE: While Facebook is not required, participants will reap the most benefits from the collaborative environment by accessing the Facebook Group for The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive. 

Key Goals of the Course
Learn writing skills and techniques to produce a quality family history; build on the skills each week.
  • Focus on getting a working draft.
  • Work at your own pace.
  • Receive constructive and helpful feedback.
  • Overcome fears and anxiety about writing.
  • Have fun!
For more information and to register, visit https://www.lisaalzo.com/writestuffdetails and remember to use promo code NYEWRITE at checkout to save 30%! Sale valid through Sunday, December 31st.

[Disclosure: The above is a paid course where I am the coach/instructor and receive an instructor’s fee as compensation].

Copyright, 2017 Lisa A. Alzo, All Rights Reserved
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10 + 1 Year Blogiversary for the Accidental Genealogist

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Normally people don’t make it a point to celebrate the 11th milestone of anything.

 For wedding anniversaries, steel (which represents strength), is the traditional material of the eleventh anniversary. It is not shiny (like gold, silver, or diamonds), but rather it is a practical, sturdy material.

 Today, I mark 11 years posting as The Accidental Genealogist. Last year I completely missed acknowledging my 10th blogiversary (ten is one of those milestone numbers). I don’t know how I forgot, but the date came and went without any post from me.  So this year, I was determined to remember and write a post marking my years blogging.


 However, while searching online for information about the number 11, I came across some interesting information, including about how the number is recognized in numerology. Apparently,  11, 1, 11, 111, and 1111 in “Angel Numbers” all mean: “Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts are manifesting instantly into form. Focus only upon your desires and not upon your fears.”

 So I have chosen this as a sort of appropriate theme for my 11th year of blogging–a decade +1 year of blogging and still going strong.

 As a brief retrospective, I have selected the following 11 posts as my favorites (not necessarily in any particular order).


1. Fearless Females: 31 Blogging Prompts to Celebrate Women’s History Month (The very first post launching my popular blogging prompts series I have hosted every March from 2010-2017; posted February 28, 2010)

 2. Sojourn in Slovakia (Series about my first visit to Slovakia, posted June 15, 2010)

 3. Sojourn in Slovakia: The Sequel (series about my return trip to Slovakia, posted July 01, 2012)

 4. Ten Genealogy Lessons I Learned from My Mother (posted May 10, 2015) 

5. Ten Genealogy Lessons I Learned from My Father (posted June 21, 2015).

 6. Ten Things I Miss About Dad: Remembering John Alzo 1925-2005 (posted  November 27, 2015)

 7. Free Video for The Write Stuff: Using Nonfiction Writing Techniques to Write a Better Family History(the post I wrote about celebrating 25 years as a nonfiction writer, posted March 20, 2015)

 8. Family History Writing on the Go! Review of Scrivener for iOS (posted July 20, 2016)

 9.The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive Returns! (posted February 23, 2017)
For more information on my popular course, click here.

 10. Advent Calendar: December 1, 2009 (my first post for the Blogging prompt series Advent Calendar of Christmas Memories, posted December 1, 2009)

 11. No Looking Back: Why I’m Choosing Myself in 2016! (posted December 31, 2015)
Even though an event (such as my 10th blogiversary) passes without recognition, there is no harm in revisiting it.  Also, as I move on from year 11, I am looking forward to what new topics about genealogy and writing will inspire future posts for this blog. 

 Copyright 2017, Lisa A. Alzo
All Rights Reserved

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When is the Right Time to Tell Your Story? Write NOW! Save 30% on Popular Writing Course

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Do you have a family history project on the back burner? A novel inside your head you have always wanted to write? A half-written nonfiction manuscript stashed somewhere on your computer’s hard drive?  Why not start now?

 Writing is not just for the winter months. In fact, I think summer is the perfect time to tap into your creativity and finally get that first draft in place! With your laptop, tablet, and writing software, you can write anywhere–at your favorite outdoor cafe, the park, the beach, or even your backyard!


 If you are ready, here are three tips to help you to stop dreaming and start writing.

 1. Keep it simple. There is no rule that says you have to write a 250-page book or write about everyone in your family tree. A series of profiles or smaller stories about significant events are more likely to entice the non-genealogists in your family to read what you’ve written. Pick your favorite ancestor, memory, or family story and create a mind map. A mind map involves randomly listing your ideas on a piece of paper or inputting them into a software program to create an initial picture of what you want to write about. [You can read about Mind Maps here]. The next step is to create an outline or storyboard to plot out your project. My favorite software for this task is Scrivener by Literature and Latte. It is available for purchase for Windows or Mac, and there is a 30-Day free trial available. [Note: I am a Scrivener affiliate, so if you click on the Scrivener for Windows or Mac links and make a purchase, I receive a small commission.  This does not increase the price you pay as a consumer, it simply helps to supplement my income].

 2. One page at a time. You may have heard that old adage: “When eating an elephant, take one bite at a time.”  The same applies to writing. Tackle it one page at a time! Even if you just wrote 500 words per week, you would be making progress. Begin with a small time commitment such as 15 minutes per day (come on, we can all find 15 minutes!) and then work your way up to longer sessions. Schedule this time on your calendar, block out all other distractions, and set an alarm or timer. Write until the alarm or timer sounds. The goal is to write something—anything.  Remember: You can’t edit a blank page!

 3. Get a push from your peers. Are you having trouble committing to writing your family history or your memoir?  Perhaps a summer writing course where you can receive feedback from a writing instructor and interact with fellow writers? Well, I have just the course ready and waiting (continue reading below). 

 Need some motivation?  I can help. I bring over 30 years’ experience as a widely published nonfiction author and a passion to coach those who aspire to write a family history!

 For you my loyal readers I have an exclusive special discount to inspire you to start that family history writing project!

 [The course advertised below is part of my business as a freelance writer, instructor, and lecturer]

 Save 30% off The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive through June 4, 2017!

 First 15 Registrants receive a FREE consultation!

 My popular family history writing course has a new format. It’s now self-paced and available anytime you wish to start. 

 Here are the highlights:

  • The course is self-paced with no start and end dates. You choose when to begin, and work through each of the five assignments according to your own schedule. Working on one assignment per week is recommended, but it is up to you.
  • There are five instructional videos, plus a bonus video on top writing tips.
  • You gain membership to a private Facebook Group, which is only available to those who purchased the course. Whether or not you choose to participate is for you to decide, but the group serves as a “virtual meeting room” and the hub of activity.  If you submit your assignments to the group, I will provide my feedback, and others in the group may also choose to comment. 
  • It is a collaborative environment where we learn from each other.The Facebook Group will remain open and you will have indefinite access to the group and all the materials posted there.
  • If you are one of the first 15 people to sign up, you will receive one 15-minute consultation with me either over Skype or telephone.

To learn more and register, click HERE

 Enter coupon code writenow in the coupon code box to save 30% off the $129 regular course price.

 This is the perfect way to jumpstart a family history writing project!

 HURRY–Offer expires 4 June 2017 AT 11:59 P.M. EST.

 [Disclosure: This blog post contains links to products I either produced or am an affiliate for, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase I will receive a commission.]

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Closing the Curtains on 2016! My Year in Review

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As we prepare to say farewell to another year, The Accidental Genealogist is ready to close the curtains on 2016 and review highlights from the 12 months, while looking ahead to new goals and more genealogy and writing adventures in 2017!

Image credit: Pixabay, with edits by Lisa Alzo

2016 Highlights

In my end of year post for 2015, “No Looking Back: Why I’m Choosing Myself in 2016,“ I wrote about how I planned to “choose myself” in 2016 and focus on some specific areas: 

  • Downsizing my physical living space and possessions.
  • Choosing work that fulfills me rather than just taking on any project or doing work for little or no payment, or that doesn’t fit my current business model. 
  • Focusing more on my own writing (including more posts to this blog) and self-publishing 
  • Expanding my work inspiring genealogists and family history writers by offering more personalized instruction through online courses and virtual learning experiences. 
  • Making more time for personal genealogy research and for enjoying life.
If I had to give myself an overall grade, I would probably go with A- because I believe that I was successful in each of the areas I listed. I especially tried to make decisions that were good for my business and focus more on my own writing. I made good progress in clearing out personal clutter and moving towards another goal of eventually changing my living space and location (priority item for 2017).  I also expanded my online educational offerings through webinars and online courses. 

Professional Growth and Satisfaction

One thing I learned in 2016 is how much I truly do enjoy helping others learn how to research their roots and share their family stories.  A few of the professional highlights for me included:

Writing, Writing, and More Writing!
Speaking and Teaching

In 2016 I spent a good bit of time on the road and online delivering lectures.


Online Coaching

One of my favorite jobs during 2016 was as a genealogy and writing coach.

  • I worked with aspiring family history writers through two sold out sessions of The Write Stuff Genealogy Writing Intensive online workshop (in partnership with my friend and colleague, Thomas MacEntee over at HackGenealogy).  And we are about to start a new sold out session on 2 January 2017!
  • I joined the team at GenealogyDOTCoach to help coach those who need help starting their genealogy research or breaking down brick walls in their current family history work.
  • There were other projects as well, making 2016 a year with plenty to do!  

Unfortunately, my own genealogy research was mostly put on hold, but I did make time to search some new online record sets and investigate the possibility of connecting with newly found cousins through DNA matches and contact through social media.


Onward to 2017

Image Credit: Pixabay

I am looking forward to taking on 2017.  It promises to be another year of getting to do what I love–writing and genealogy! 

I have several ideas for books I hope to publish.  I will be working on yet another special issue for Internet Genealogy, and will continue to develop online courses and webinars. Travel will once again fit into the mix.I am excited to be a speaker at a number of conferences again. 

I am especially honored to be the Keynote speaker for the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International’s 16th Genealogical and Cultural Conference, October 17-21, 2017 (in my hometown of Pittsburgh, PA). The conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel – Pittsburgh International Airport.  I will also be giving three other talks at the conference.  For more information click here.

Finally, each year I select a “theme” that serves as a guidepost for my personal and professional life.  For 2017 I have selected “Brave/Bravery” as my theme.  I want to be open to new possibilities, try out new ideas and throw a number of things out to the universe and see what happens, and not be afraid to take some risks.  

I would also like to thank all of you who follow this blog.  In June 2016 I celebrated 10 years of writing as “The Accidental Genealogist” – thanks for coming along for the journey!

Wishing you a peaceful and productive 2017!

[Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase I will receive a small commission]

Copyright 2016, Lisa A. Alzo 
All Rights Reserved







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Back to School: The Write Stuff Genealogy Writing Intensive – Starts 10 October 2016!

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It’s hard to believe summer is over we are in “Back to School” mode again!

If you spent your summer doing genealogy research, or visiting with your living kin, perhaps you are ready to write your family history! 

And, just in time, another session of the The Write Stuff: Genealogy Writing Intensive will be starting on 10 October!  



Below is the official announcement from Hack Genealogy. Click here to reserve your spot today!

###

It’s back! Our popular family history writing course, The Write Stuff, returns for the Fall 2016 season starting October 10th!
Is “write up all of my years of genealogy research” one of your goals for 2016? Are you looking for more than just the standard genealogy report . . . do you want something that you can publish and share with family? Are you interested in crafting ancestor profiles and allowing their stories to “pop” off the page? Then you need to be a part of The Write Stuff – a Genealogy Intensive™ offering.
What Is a Genealogy Intensive™?
A Genealogy Intensive™ is a small group of similarly-minded genealogists with the same project goal. The group meets virtually over a six-week period. Once a week, participants meet online using GoToTraining (similar to GoToWebinar which is popular with genealogy webinar attendees). There are work assignments that are interesting, engaging, and collaborative without being burdensome. In addition there is an online platform to share ideas, encouragement and ask questions at any time of the day or night. The group is closed, private and led by genealogy educators and authors, two of whom you probably already know: Lisa Alzo and Thomas MacEntee. These “coaches” offer encouragement and facilitate online discussions to lend inspiration, solve problems and make that ever-elusive project a reality.
So, bring your obsession. Bring your ideas, no matter how wacky they may seem. Bring your enthusiasm. Get ready for results. We’re talking action and doing. We’re talking feedback and support. Click here to read more about the Genealogy Intensive™ concept.
If you missed out on the Spring version of The Write Stuff (which sold out quickly) then here is your chance! Read below for more information on this six-week collaborative, results-driven, group coaching environment focusing on writing family history narratives. Like all of our Genealogy Intensive™ offerings, you’ll have access to the recordings, handouts, and the Facebook group during and even after the classes end. At Hack Genealogy there is never an “upcharge” for a collaborative environment and if you act now, you can register for the Early Bird price!
Note: A minimum of eight (8) paid participants are needed in order for a Genealogy Intensive™ to be successful. If the minimum is not met, your tuition will be refunded in full and you’ll be notified of the next Genealogy Intensive™.
Testimonials
Here is what past students of The Write Stuff have to say:
“I loved the Intensive. This is not just a “get an assignment, talk once a week” type of course. The very active Facebook group where Lisa checked in all the time helped keep up the energy all week long. Besides the standard handouts, many other resources, articles and other helpful tips and links were shared during the week. This is the perfect way to get your writing started or get it back on track if you’re stalled.” – Diana Ritchie
“Genealogy Intensive gave my family history writing a big boost. From it, I developed the habit of writing every day. Genealogy Intensive led me to understand just how important that is to do. After the class was over, I started a family blog to publish some of that writing and to get it ‘out there’ for others to read. The blog provided other rewards, including increasing their interest and involvement in our family’s history. One of the cousins that I do genealogy work with told me “I love the way you write”. Most importantly, I decided how to write my family history book by choosing a format to use through the storyboarding technique taught in the classes.” – Mary-Angus Yanke
Special Offer – Free Registration!
If The Write Stuff Spring 2016 fills up, with 20 registrants, we’ll draw one name and offer them a freebie – a full rebate on the registration fee!
Description
Are you excited about (or perhaps even a little obsessed with) the idea of getting your family history down in writing? Maybe you have self-doubts and fears about how to get started, what to write, and how to put it all together in a compelling way? If so, then this workshop is for you! During this six-week intensive, you will learn the key steps for producing a quality family history narrative from outline to finished product, ways to use “storyboarding” to plot your project, and how to build your writing skills, as well as your confidence as a writer. In addition, you will receive helpful tips, project management tools and a productivity toolbox to help keep you on track.
Through on-line instructional sessions, weekly assignments, and collaboration with other participants, you will have access to an instructor with more than 23 years of writing experience, who will teach you about key nonfiction writing techniques you can use to produce a “can’t put down” family history that will keep the pages turning for generations.
Key Goals of the Course
  1. Learn writing skills and techniques to produce a quality family history; build on the skills each week.
  2. Focus on getting a working draft.
  3. Receive constructive and helpful feedback.
  4. Overcome fears and anxiety about writing.
  5. Have fun!
Coach Bio – Lisa Alzo
Lisa A. Alzo
Lisa A. Alzo is a freelance writer, instructor, and lecturer with over 20 years’ experience in the field of genealogy. She earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in Nonfiction Writing from the University of Pittsburgh, and is the author of nine books, including: Finding Your Slovak Ancestors, Writing Your Family History Book, and the award-winning Three Slovak Women. Lisa has written hundreds of articles and her work has appeared in Family Tree Magazine, Family Chronicle, Internet Genealogy, APG Quarterly, among others. An internationally recognized speaker, Lisa blogs as “The Accidental Genealogist” bloghttp://www.theaccidentalgenealogist.com. For more information see http://www.lisaalzo.com.
Schedule
Week 1: 10-17 October 2016
  • Online Session: Introductions and Goal Setting.
    10 October 2016 via GoToTraining
    9:00 pm EDT / 8:00 pm CDT 1 Hour, recorded.
    Topic: What do you want to accomplish? What’s important to you? What does writing success look like to you?
  • Video: Setting Writing Goals
  • Week 2 Assignment1) Outline your family history writing goal. Various tools will be provided to explore different ways to create an outline.2) Compose a short elevator pitch (no more than 2-3 sentences) that succinctly summarizes your project. A sample will be provided.
  • Facebook Group
    • Introductions
    • Participants ask questions on assignment; share resources; respond to prompts from instructor (2 prompts each week).
Week 2: 18-23 October 2016
  • Video: Plot, Plan, and Scheme: Storyboard Your Family History Project
  • Week 3 Assignment
    • Storyboard your project idea. You may choose to prepare your storyboard in whatever format that works for you:  For example: Write by hand on index cards and then scan them or photograph them to share; or use Word, PowerPoint, Excel, or a program such as Scrivener or Index Card App or StorySkeleton.
  • Facebook Group:
    • Participants ask questions on assignment; share resources; respond to prompts from instructor (2 prompts each week).
Week 3: 24-30 October 2016
  • Online Session: Review Week 2 and 3 Assignments.
    24 October 2016 via GoToTraining
    9:00 pm EDT / 8:00 pm CDT 1 Hour, recorded.
    Topic: Review Week 2 and 3 Assignments.
  • Video: Tap into Family Treasures
  • Week 4 Assignment
    • Tap into Family Treasures: write 500 words using a photo or document or heirloom or keepsake as your prompt. Instructor will provide a sample.
  • Facebook Group:
    • Participants ask questions on assignment; share resources; respond to prompts from instructor (2 prompts each week).
Week 4: 30 October – 6 November 2016
  • Video: Character Development through Oral History and Profile
  • Week 5 Assignment
Choose one
1) Write from a memory or an oral history interview (500 words). Instructor will provide a sample.
2) Write a profile or character sketch of an ancestor of your choice (500 words). Instructor will provide a sample.
  • Facebook Group:
    • Participants ask questions on assignment; share resources; respond to prompts from instructor (2 prompts each week).
Week 5: 7-13 November 2016
  • Video: Shaping Your Story Using Plot and Structure
  • Week 6 Assignment
    • Putting it all together. Building on the skills you learned in the previous weeks, and using your outline, write a 1200 word narrative (approximately 2 pages) about your ancestor or family. Instructor will provide an example.
  • Facebook Group:
    • Participants ask questions on assignment; share resources; respond to prompts from instructor (2 prompts each week).
Week 6: 14 November 2016
  • Online Session: Review Week 4 and 5 Assignments.
    14 November 2016 via GoToTraining
    9:00 pm EST / 8:00 pm CST 1 Hour, recorded
    Topic: Review Week 4 and 5 Assignments and Wrap-Up.
  • Video: Top Ten Tips for Family History Writing
  • Facebook Group:
    • Thank you, good-byes, next steps
Register
The cost to attend a The Write Stuff Genealogy Intensive™ over a six week period is $129 per person. A special discounted price of $99 will be available during the early registration period. Early registration ends on Monday, October 3rd!
Before you register and make payment, please read the Genealogy Intensive™ Terms and Conditions as well as the Participant Policies.
If you’re ready to be a part of The Write Stuff, Fall 2016 (10 October – 14 November 2016), then click here to register and pay via PayPal*
* You do not need a PayPal account to make payment; you can use a credit card via PayPal.
Money-Back Guarantee
We get it. You’re taking a chance with us on a new, radical format for online genealogy education. If you are willing to do the work and commit to the format of a Genealogy Intensive™, we’re certain you’ll be happy. More than happy. More importantly, you’ll finally get that project done!
If at any time you are not satisfied with the content or format of the Genealogy Intensive™, we’ll gladly refund your money.

Copyright 2016, Lisa A. Alzo
Genealogy Writing Intensive promotional materials, copyright 2016, Thomas MacEntee
All Rights Reserved

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Why You Should Write a Family History in 2016: Last Call to Register for The Write Stuff Genealogy Writing Intensive

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Have you been putting off writing that family history?  Is it a task you keep leaving on your “I’ll get to it someday” list? 

Here are three tips to make 2016 the year you FINALLY stop procrastinating and start writing. 

Image Credit: Fotolia.com (Author: thinglass)


And if you need some encouragement, there’s still time to register for The Write Stuff Genealogy Writing Intensive that begins on 11 January 2016.


No More Excuses!

Most genealogists I know are dedicated, passionate, and persistent.  We’ll spend countless hours researching online databases, in courthouses or libraries, travel across the country or around the world to walk in our great-grandma’s footsteps, and even go to extreme measures to “dig up the dirt” on that “black sheep” uncle. But, when it comes to compiling the years of research, charts, photographs, and other data into an interesting, informative, and captivating format, how many of us become creatively paralyzed before our fingers even hit the keyboard?  Perhaps, we don’t know where to start, we’re overwhelmed by the amount of information we’ve gathered, or we simply say “I don’t have time.” 

If you are ready to get serious about documenting the stories of your ancestors, here are three tips.

1. Think like a writer, not a genealogist. The first thing you need to do is get over your “fear of writing.”  Many people mistakenly believe they need to have formal training in order to write a family narrative.  I was a writer before I was a genealogist (this is the reason I call my Blog “The Accidental Genealogist”), and I consider myself more of a story gatherer as opposed to a name collector, so I’m always looking for the best ways to record, store, and share information. You may not have the same training or experience, but don’t be intimidated.  You can do it—you may just need more practice!

2. Have a focus.  Decide what it is you want to write.  Is it a 250-page book?  A series of profiles, or character sketches?  A house history?  Do you want to focus on one particular ancestor, one family, or several generations?  Take some time to think about what story you want to tell and write down your writing goals and the steps you will take to achieve them. Then, set reasonable and realistic deadlines and stick to them.

3. Play Favorites.  A popular piece of advice given to writers is: “Write what you know.” You can apply this to family history writing as well.  It will be much harder to write about an ancestor for whom you have very little information, so choose a good candidate.  You can also select a favorite ancestor or one who has a “juicy” backstory.  Start with the “easy” subjects before you tackle the harder ones.

These are just a few of the topics I will address in The Write Stuff Genealogy Writing Intensive starting on 11 January 2016.

There are still a couple of spots left, so if you are willing to take writing a family history off of the “someday” list, now is your chance. Click here for more details and to register.


You CAN do this!

[Disclosure: I have been hired as a freelance instructor this intensive by HackGenealogy, and I will be receive payment for leading this intensive.]

©2016, copyright Lisa A. Alzo. All rights reserved.

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Staying the Course: Finishing Week 3 of NaNoWriMo

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Well, Week 3 of NaNoWriMo 2015 has concluded and I am still “in it to win it.” I am writing something every day.I  am pushing through to beat the excuses of not having time and trying to focus on my project, despite many other writing deadlines. 

Image Credit: Pixabay

Okay, let’s get the accountability stuff out of the way. Here are my stats for Week 3:

  • Total Words Written 21,867 
  • Words Remaining 28,133
  • Current Day 22 
  • Days Remaining 9
  • At This Rate You Will Finish On December 21, 2015
  • Words Per Day To Finish On Time 3,126

This is a tall order to finish before 30 November 2015.  But, not impossible. I am planning for some writing sprints this week.  We shall see.

Now, more importantly, here are a few things I have learned about “writer self” in Week 3.

  • I need to schedule my writing sessions for this project because there are too many other priorities (in other words paid writing work) pulling for my “rear in chair” time.
  • I am an early morning creative writer.
  • I need external deadlines (I tend to let my self-imposed deadlines pass).
  • I don’t really believe in “Writer’s Block” (more about this at another time).
  • I really do like my writing project. Every time I go back and review my research I am amazed at the complexity of the story.
  • I enjoy the process of storyboarding and I could not get through NaNoWriMo without Scrivener for Mac and Windows (It was so worth buying both versions).

Week 4 is underway. Will I win?  Stay tuned…

If you are still in it too…I’d love to hear how you are doing.

©2015, copyright Lisa A. Alzo. All rights reserved.










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Half Way There: Continuing the Climb in Week 2 of NaNoWriMo

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Well, it is now Sunday 15 November and two weeks since I started my NaNoWriMo journey. There’s good news and bad news. 

Image Credit: Pixabay

Whenever I am asked which I want to hear first I always choose bad news first so that the good news is what I hear last. 

The bad news for my personal NaNoWriMo tally is that I have written a total of 16,061 words thus far.  I am averaging 1,070 words per day, which is 600 under what I should be writing to reach the 50,000 words goal.  At this rate I won’t finish until 17 December 2015. If that were to happen it certainly would not be the end of the world, but I would much rather make the 30 November deadline.  To finish on time I need to bump up my word count to 2,122 words per day. The good news, however, is that I am STILL HERE. Still trying.  And I have written 16,000 words!  This is more than I have done on this project in the past six months.

So, still striving and aiming to write even more words in Week 3. I won’t lie and say it is going to be easy, or that I have some magic momentum consuming me. What I do have is a desire to do the best I can.  

As part of the NaNoWriMo experience you get “Pep Talks” in messages from other writers on the site. For the halfway point, one of the pep talks had the following quote: 

“Here’s what I want you to know: The kindest thing you can do for yourself right now is to let go of this fear. Don’t worry about writing something bad. Just write.”
— Stephanie Perkins.

So, for me, it will be one foot in front of the other (or one keystroke at a time) to continue the climb. I am not worried about writing something bad. I just plan to keep writing. 

For me, it isn’t the destination, but the journey that counts.

©2015, copyright Lisa A. Alzo. All rights reserved.
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