It had rained hard during the night and everywhere I looked it was dripping, grey and dismal. I walked looking down at the ground to avoid mud puddles and slippery sections. Then I looked up, and saw this light – an open window beckoning me on, at the end of the, er, tunnel – of […]
Shaw TV Interview – How I became the Life Story Writer
There is no greater gift than sharing the experiences and wisdom of a lifetime with family and friends. How do family members know who they are if they don’t know where they came from – their roots? But the challenge is in getting started.
In his book On Writing Well author William Zinsser said:
One of the saddest sentences I know is “I wish I would have asked my mother about that. Or my father. Or my grandmother, or grandfather”…
It is sometimes difficult to write about yourself in a detached manner that provides an interesting read for others. Many people put off this activity and never find the time. With some encouragement and a good guide, however, it can be a pleasant, rewarding journey to tell your own unique story.
I live on Southern Vancouver Island and can travel to record your memories of past events and the people who have made your life special. In the comfort of your home this process will be relaxing and enjoyable. It will no doubt be fun too. We will add photos and special documents if applicable, and then we will have your story professionally printed. What a gift – for you, your family, the next generations, and friends – can you imagine holding the book in your hands, seeing it on your coffee table, in your bookcase, reading stories to your grandchildren? It will be much cherished.
How often have you wished that your forebears had left written stories of their lives? A family tree may appeal to some, and facts may appeal to others, but stories are how we get to know people and the times in which they lived.
You may not think you have led an exceptional life, but I am sure that through this process, you will end up thinking otherwise. You will have fun, perhaps shed some tears, and remember details you may have forgotten, but overall, you will be thankful that you made this journey into your past. It will be the creation of a special legacy for your sons and daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren, or friends; they will be so grateful that your stories are preserved. Don’t wait – give me a call and let’s get started.
Family and Friends
If you are a family member or friend, here’s the most special gift you will ever find for your loved one. Give the gift of a life story book to a beloved parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or friend.
Retirement Gift
A book of photos and stories from coworkers makes an amazing and unique retirement gift.
Your Company History
Make it work for you! A short publication packed with personal anecdotes and interesting photographs can be an ideal gift for clients, and a wonderful coffee table book in your office. Highlighting projects and giving clients the opportunity to learn more about the special people who work on them can be a determining factor in developing trust. Posting the business memoir to your website will make your company stand out from all the rest!
Reflections – Look Inside Yourself
“Do you know what you are? You are a manuscript oƒ a divine letter. You are a mirror reflecting a noble face. This universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself; everything that you want, you are already that.” ― Rumi Photo – reflection in Victoria Lake © Janice Henshaw 2015
Finding your way out of the depths
The most beautiful people I’ve known are those who have known trials, have known struggles, have known loss, and have found their way out of the depths.” – Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Photo Super Moon Oct 2015 © Janice Henshaw
Fog and getting out of bed
Yesterday morning my alarm woke me and my first thought was to pick it up and heave it across the room. But I remembered in that infinitesimal nanosecond of time that my little Iphone is actually pretty handy, and the bureaucratic hassles of getting a new one are most decidedly not worth one moment of […]
Sometimes the brain gets in the way of the heart
“Rabbit’s clever,” said Pooh thoughtfully. “Yes,” said Piglet, “Rabbit’s clever.” “And he has Brain.” “Yes,” said Piglet, “Rabbit has Brain.” There was a long silence. “I suppose,” said Pooh, “that that’s why he never understands anything.” ― A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh Photo © Janice Henshaw 2016 (I looked for a rabbit, but only found a frog)
Try slowing down…who knows what will happen?

“For fast-acting relief try slowing down.” Lily Tomlin Now that’s a concept. Who knew it could be so simple? No pills, no frills, just slow down… Better to start now, today, because if we’re waiting for some day in the future to slow down, odds are good that it just might not happen. Janice Henshaw […]
Emails home – it’s so much fun to use my new camping supplies!
July 8, 2012 I love cooking with my new stove and dishes! I found out from the park ranger that I can stay here for 14 days, and I just might do that! I have the best campsite at Fairy Lake, #20, the sun warms me up in the morning, and I can walk right […]
Thanksgiving 2013
Hello hugs, catching up, laughter, Long peaceful hikes through Forests of fir and cedar boughs And the rich hues of maples. Followed by fresh baked cookies, Nanaimo bars, pots of tea. Playing games, sharing stories of adventures, Hopes, worries, and dreams, And dear sweet memories of those Who are no longer with us. […]
Manning Park to Osoyoos July 26 2012

July 26 Thursday – Manning Park to Osoyoos This morning I opened my eyes, and six inches away were Baloo’s unblinking liquid brown eyes staring at me. I guess my new alarm clock was telling me it’s time to get up. I made coffee with my new bod, which is fast and easy. Just boil […]
The Vagabond Girl – My 43,000 km trip in a 14 Foot Trailer with a dog named Baloo
In July 2012 I set out on a trip. I drove my Dad’s old diesel pickup and towed a small 14′ trailer. My dog Baloo sat in the co-pilot seat and acted as navigator. He never disagreed with any of my ideas. Nor did he argue when I changed direction, got lost, or was late […]
“A feeling of wonder”
“It creates a feeling of wonder that so much beauty should be apparently created for such little purpose.” ~ Charles Darwin Photos © Janice Henshaw
Autobiography, Biography, Life story, and Memoir – What is the difference?
Photo © Janice Henshaw Autobiography, Biography, Life story/Memoir – What is the difference? What do they mean? Autobiography – I write an account about my life, and it could consist of just my viewpoint and memories – it’s all about me! Biography – I write an account of someone else’s life – and most likely, […]
Don’t let the elephant get you down…
“When one feels pulled to do a particular thing, when one has passion for a certain life path, karma is always involved. In such an instance, when the goal is worthy and makes one happy, one should continue on that same life path. Just because the elephant cannot carry you anymore doesn’t mean you should […]
To See All That Is Beautiful
Depending on our nature, it may come easily to see and talk about all that is negative in our world. The trick is to put effort into seeing the good – in people, and in everyday moments. To see and remember, and cherish, All that is beautiful. ~Janice Henshaw Photo © Janice Henshaw 2017
Moose Jaw Saskatchewan – Aug. 10, 2012
Swift Current to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan 174km (38’C) Where to today? I couldn’t wait to get out of the Swift Current campground, King of Grunge, and travelling anywhere else sounded good. I am now in Moose Jaw, camped at River Park Campground, a private campground – they only take cash, $32.00 thank you, and they […]
Looking for the light – Grayton Beach, Florida
“Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light.” Helen Keller
“Joy arises from within”
“Pleasure is always derived from something outside you, whereas joy arises from within.” Eckart Tolle
Adventures – and living life
“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view.” Edward Abbey During my travels, I have often been lost. And sometimes upset and fearful and angry at myself, thinking, “Wow, you’ve really done it this time. Why the heck didn’t you bring a compass, and why didn’t you take the […]
Be Nobody But Yourself
“To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else – means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting.” e. e. cummings
Hiking and bears – Waterton Lakes National Park – Aug. 7, 2012
Tues, Aug. 7th Waterton Lakes National Park After the blissful start to a day of sunshine, coffee and breakfast the first thing on my agenda was to drive out to the Red Rock Parkway. It is fifteen miles through the Blakiston Valley, and follows an ancient bison trail. Along this route, there is a great […]

















