Starting Strong: Reflections, Goals, and an Exciting New Year Ahead


Dearest Memorists,

As we close 2024 and look ahead to 2025, I’ve been thinking about my writing journey and the incredible progress I’ve seen in this community. Like many of you, I start each year energized and ready to tackle my goals. But somewhere along the way, I lose momentum, and my personal goals often fall by the wayside. Sound familiar?

A few weeks ago, I completed Brooke Warner’s six-month memoir course. I had hoped to walk away with a finished draft. Well, that didn’t happen, but I did make big progress, and I came away clarity about my structure, renewed confidence, and a deeper commitment to forging ahead without getting bogged down in rewrites.

Our inspiring member Sylvia Clare said last week: “I think there are many books among us which will [see] the light of the print this year.” I love this and I agree! This year, our members Ines, Esther, Nutan, and Anna all finished first drafts and the ever prolific Sylvia herself has completed at least once, maybe two more memoirs! (Sorry if I’ve forgotten anyone. If you also finished a draft or completed a milestone you’re proud of, please reply to this email. Let’s celebrate our successes!) These achievements are proof of what’s possible when we support each other. I can’t wait to see what comes next!

To help us all build on this momentum, I’m inviting you to our Accountability & Goal-Setting Session on January 16.

We’ll reflect on our successes from 2024, set meaningful goals for 2025, and test out a new accountability framework designed to keep us motivated throughout the year. There will also be journaling prompts and time to share your thoughts and intentions with the group.

Let’s start the year by celebrating what we’ve accomplished and committing to the next steps in our writing journeys. I truly believe this will be the year that many of our stories take flight.

Sign up here: https://www.meetup.com/memoir-mentors/events/303504496/

Looking forward to celebrating and planning with all of you,

Hugs!
~Christina


Memoir Mentors Is Now on Substack!

Exciting news—I’ve launched a Memoir Mentors Substack! You may have already noticed an email from me there. If you’ve read it, thank you so much! If not, you can check it out and subscribe here: memoirmentors.substack.com.

Substack is a new space where I’ll be sharing updates, resources, and inspiration for our community. While this newsletter will continue to have a personal and community-focused slant, Substack allows me to experiment with additional content and ideas—things I’m still working out!

For those who have already subscribed, thank you! Your support means the world to me. If you prefer supporting Memoir Mentors through Substack instead of the PayPal fundraiser, you can also upgrade to a paid subscription there. Both options help sustain this amazing community, and I’m so grateful for your generosity.

Thank you for being part of Memoir Mentors. I’m excited to explore this new chapter with you!

New Items in the Etsy Shop!

"Be Nice" Eco Tote Bag

“Be Nice” Tote Bag

Writers, we all know the drill—every interaction is potential memoir material! Carry your wit and wisdom wherever you go with this stylish tote bag, featuring the playful reminder: “Be Nice, Anything You Do or Say May Appear in My Memoir.”

Perfect for carrying your notebooks, favorite reads, or even groceries, this tote is a must-have for memoirists who want to make a statement.

🎁 Available now in the Etsy shop! Shop here

Memoir Mentors Mug

 

Start your day with a splash of color and a reminder of the Memoir Mentors community. This mug, featuring our logo and vibrant interior colors, is perfect for your morning coffee or tea. Each sip supports the heart of our group, helping us continue to grow and inspire one another. Thank you for being part of this journey.

"Your Words Have Power" Mug

Start your day with inspiration! Whether you’re sipping morning coffee, winding down with evening tea, or fueling a late-night writing session, this sturdy and glossy mug is here to remind you: Your Words Have Power.

With “Your Words Have Power” on one side and “Memoir Mentors” on the other, it’s a perfect companion for every memoirist. Plus, it’s microwave and dishwasher-safe, making it as practical as it is motivational.

Guiding Light Sweatshirt

 

 

Wrap yourself in comfort and inspiration with our lighthouse sweatshirt, featuring the phrase “Memoir – Transforming life’s challenges into guiding lights for others’ journeys.” This cozy piece symbolizes the strength and resilience of our community, reminding us that our stories can light the way for others. Your support helps keep Memoir Mentors shining bright.

"Be Nice" Sweatshirt

 

Stay cozy and keep everyone on their toes with our “Be Nice – anything you do or say may appear in my memoir” sweatshirt. It’s a lighthearted reminder that every interaction could become part of your next chapter. Perfect for sparking smiles and a few cautious glances!

Memoir Makes Meaning of the Past Laptop Cover

 

Wrap your laptop in inspiration with our “Memoir Makes Meaning of the Past” cover. This thoughtful design is a perfect reminder that every story you write helps shape the past into something meaningful. It’s more than just protection for your laptop; it’s a daily nudge to keep writing and discovering the deeper truths in your journey.

Discover More at our Shop

Explore more inspiring designs at the Memoir Mementos store. Keep your creativity flowing with a range of items crafted to support your writing journey!


Upcoming events

I’d prefer that you sign up through Meetup so I know who to expect and so that you know what the agenda is for the week, but if that’s too problematic, you can go directly to the Zoom link that we use every week:
https://zoom.us/j/4400465879?pwd=R0Y0RUp4YjAvdnJCODV0MkhNMXlmdz09


    Fundraiser Update

    Thank you so much to everyone who contributed to Memoir Mentors in 2024! Your generosity helped us raise €1,405 toward our €4,000 goal, which supports the essential resources that keep our group thriving.

    As we reset our goal for 2024, I want to reiterate that Memoir Mentors is funded entirely by donations and my own contributions. The fees for the tools and platforms we use—like Zoom and Meetup—are annual, and many have increased this year, some by as much as 20%.

    If Memoir Mentors has brought value to your writing life, please consider making a donation to help sustain this amazing community. Every bit helps us cover these costs and ensures we can continue offering writing sessions, workshops, and more.

    You can contribute here:

    Contribute Now 

    Thank you for being part of this journey—I’m so grateful for your support!


    Ideas? Questions? Suggestions?

    Reply to this email and let me know or reach out directly at: xtina.howell@memoirmentors.com