Last year I had a vision. I imagined a group of women (who didn’t know each other) around a table, eating beautiful food, and passing around a bowl filled with story prompts. One by one, we would each tell an impromptu story about our lives. It would be connecting and nourishing, compassion-building and healing.
This idea thrilled me for several reasons. The first is that I am bored at most parties. Small talk makes me tired. Witty banter makes my head hurt. I am the girl who will corner you at the party and go deep. You might be the only person I talk to that night, but we will be BFF’s by the end of the evening.
I also believe in the power of storytelling.
There is something really powerful that happens when humans circle up and tell stories. It it ancient and something we know in our bones. We are wired for this. And it is where so much healing happens.
There is a quote that I love by Mr. Rogers that pretty much sums it up: “There isn’t anyone you couldn’t love once you’ve heard their story.”
These storybowls are no exception. I have been holding them regularly in the Bay Area and they are pure joy. There is something really magical that unfolds when we are together. It’s just the right mix of fun, connection, deep nourishment, compassion building and healing.
Please join me for a Bowl!
Sunday, August 18th 10am- 1pm
Storybowl in the garden at Susan’s house (see photo above + more here)
San Rafael, CA
P.S. Dinner or brunch included in the price! $55
see you in November!!
I don’t know if you know it or not, Andrea, but you have a really delicious life. Truly. Like, it’s more scrumptious than every single item on the Food Network. Been following since 1997 when you mentioned SARK often. I found out about Burning Man ’cause of you. I was able to get a peek into SanFran, Berkeley b/c of you. I watched both kids from oven to twirling in the living room air strumming guitars. I’ve purchased jewelry. I vibe off of your creativity. Your photos are all that. I’m here in Washington, D.C. and you’re there in CA. but we’re kindred souls. You’ve excited many days for me as a fellow right-brainer.
Just thought I’d tell you this.
P.S.: Two things that ALWAYS stand out are: “Tell me everything” from one of your posts long ago to your tripping on the sidewalk once w/ your son(s) and some little girls having a tea party in a nearby yard patting your face and saying that you’d be “just fine.” LOVE IT.
If you ever come up to the Portland area again to visit friends or do business, as I’ve heard you mention in previous posts, I would sign up in a heartbeat! I LOVE stories, I love listening to them, I love to tell them, I love to write them, love love love stories, and also to know there are two sides if not more to every story. I also feel a stronger connection and a deeper resonance inside me through oral history vs written history. Thank you again for all that you do, all that you offer, and are xoxoxxo