About Rhonda
As a personal history writer, Rhonda helps people turn their memories into a keepsake personal memoir or business history book.
She makes her home in sunny Palm Desert, California.
Author Archives: rhondakalkwarf
Assumption of Decency
When I introduced this blog, I said I would surely stay away from politics and organized religion as topics. Never say never. Today, I need to rant a little because there’s just way too much animosity in the air right … Continue reading
Posted in Home, Politics, Religion, Traditions
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The Heart of His Story
I had one of those, “Gee, I wonder what ever happened to …” moments today. I thought of a guy I knew in high school, actually the first boy I ever kissed. We went to a dance together and maybe … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Home, Memories, Personal History, Religion, Uncategorized
Tagged video tribute
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Senior Benefits
My husband joined AARP when he became eligible a few years ago. Since then, I stood on the technicality that he is the member and I have benefits as his spouse. Last week, though, I received my first senior discount. … Continue reading
Tribe of Women
I was raised in a tribe of women. From the time I was born, I lived with only women; early on with just my mother and later with my mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and my aunt. In spite of our actual … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Home, Love, Memoir, Personal History, Traditions, Uncategorized
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Missed Opportunity
My aunt died last week. She was my father’s sister. I wasn’t close to her; in fact, I only met her once, briefly. It doesn’t seem like her passing should be a big deal for me. If only… My mother … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Memoir, Personal History
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Remembering Ron Santo
Last night I was thrilled to be part of the crowd gathered to honor Ron Santo as his statue at Wrigley Field was unveiled. Ron’s family was there, along with former teammates Ernie Banks, Billie Williams, Fergie Jenkins, and many … Continue reading
Posted in Uncategorized
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How We Met
I think it’s such fun to talk with others about how they met their husband or wife! Even the most reserved people brighten as they tell their story. Blind dates, church groups, friends’ weddings, they all make good stories. I met … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Love, Memoir, Personal History, Traditions
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My Faithful Sidekick
I work at home and often, the work is solitary. Sometimes it’s just nice to have another living, breathing being around. After the first six months alone, I caught a program on television about pets and pet adoption. It was … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Home, Pets, Uncategorized, Working at home
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Traditions
What are the special traditions in your family? Here are some of my favorites: • Decorating our children’s bedrooms for their birthdays. • Cutting down our Christmas tree. • Visiting the pumpkin farm for pumpkins, apple cider and caramel apples. … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Memoir, Personal History, Religion, Traditions
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What’s in a Name
Do you know the story behind your name? Were you named after a family member? Is there a naming tradition in your family or as part of your culture? My husband’s middle name is his father’s first name. When my … Continue reading
Posted in Family, Memoir, Personal History
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