For me, however, the part of the conference that brought me the most joy was how many of our attendees were introduced to these worlds for the first time. They came not fully knowing why, but knowing they wanted to be there. They left embracing the discovery that story touches everything!
Shared laughter and insights forged and deepened family bonds.
The delight on the faces of our audiences tells the tale.
Story turns hearts, it heals, it inspires, it strengthens family dynamics. Families can affect the way they view themselves and the world around them by the stories they choose to tell each other. That's powerful. I was blessed to share this weekend with my remarkable daughters. We took advantage of the I-tell booth and recorded our thoughts and stories about being Clark Women. It was a moment I will cherish forever. We just don't naturally take such opportunities. Story@Home even reminded me to magnify the meaningful family moments I hold so dear.
Storytellers went home entranced with family history research. Family historians went home ready to share the stories that make all those dates significant. Bloggers went home ready to share stories from the past as well as the present in bold and colorful ways. I've even heard from some spouses who didn't make the conference; they declare that there's no way they are going to miss out next year. Which means, of course, that there will be a next year!
Story@Home was not a flash in the pan. We're here to stay and we want to reach out to as many people as possible. But a year is so far away... So, we're taking a condensed version on the road. Look for us at selected Family History Expos. http://www.familyhistoryexpos.com/
We'll be in Albuquerque in April.
