Past Prompts

Recipes can be treasured and passed down from generation to generation, or they can begin in your kitchen. They can be closely guarded secrets or happily shared with anyone who asks. Some of us still have collections of favorite recipes on cards or in cookbooks. Others have tossed these in favor of Internet searches. Think back … What are some of your favorite recipes? Where did they come from and what memories do they evoke? Is there one you would share on Retrospect? Share your recipes stories forward. Start Writing Read Stories

It’s natural for us to want good fortune and avoid bad outcomes, but what’s the difference between that and superstition? When we were younger, we might have steered clear of black cats, tried not to break mirrors, found four-leaf clovers, stroked rabbits’ feet, or worn hamsas. Maybe we still do. Think back … What was your most powerful superstition? Are you still superstitious now? Or, if you weren’t or aren’t superstitious, why not? Share your superstition stories forward. Start Writing Read Stories

The sense of smell is closely linked with memory, probably more so than any of our other senses. You might be walking down the street and pick up a scent that takes you back in time to a particular moment. Think back . . . maybe the smell of batter reminds you of your grandmother's pancakes, or just the thought of a scent conjures a recollection of a certain summer, or a special someone. Share your fragrant flashbacks stories forward. Start Writing Read Stories

Just checking in … how is the Covid-19 pandemic playing out in your life at this point? Are you actively grappling with the difficulties brought on by changes in schedules, cancellations, loss of work, financial worries, loneliness, or too much togetherness? To what degree are you keeping up with the news, or have you shut it out altogether? Or, perhaps the initial shock has worn off and you’re finding yourself content to spend yet another day at home, taking leisurely walks, enjoying the slower pace, the simpler pleasures, and connecting more deeply and thoughtfully with the one or ones you love. Do you think Zoom and InstaCart will remain staples in your new normal? Think back . . . to the first days of the pandemic. How have things changed for you? Share your Pandemic stories forward. Start Writing Read Stories

Long before the internet enabled us to shop at home, there were door-to-door salespeople who rang the bell and came into our living rooms with a case full of products. The Avon Lady, the Fuller Brush Man, and many others traveled around the country selling their wares. Think back . . . Did you ever buy products from a door-to-door salesperson? Did you ever try to support yourself selling products door-to-door? Would you allow a salesperson into your house now? Share your door-to-door sales stories forward. Start Writing Read Stories