Contemplative Doula
Greetings! I'm Francesca Lynn Arnoldy, a community doula, author, and educator. I'm on a mission to raise awareness about the importance of death literacy while encouraging connection and compassion. JOIN ME ON THE JOURNEY!
A Gift or Garbage
Continuing Connections I was at the ocean yesterday and found myself thinking about my aunt Nancy. It was the anniversary of her death, and although it's been over 20 years, I still miss her. So, I spoke to her and asked if she'd maybe send me a sign--a little wink or "hello" from beyond. Maybe a beautiful shell? I stood to leave and immediately spotted it. No, it wasn't a pristine seaside treasure; it was a cigarette butt in the sand. I knew without question this was "it" though, the answer...
Contemplative Vision Map
What are you Dreaming Up? Winter is a wonderful time to retreat and reflect. And "taking stock" is an illuminating practice. By returning to meaningful memories, we get to enjoy them again. Which moments stand out from your year? Time in nature? Time at home? Time adventuring? Time with loved ones? Time creating? Time volunteering? What has time felt like to you? A gift? A thief? A blur? As I look back on 2025, I'm feeling so much gratitude. I went on an amazing trip to Azores with my family....
Researcher Doula
[Research News] I occasionally mention my research work, but in this month's newsletter, we'll go into detail about my years at the Vermont Conversation Lab... 1) The Backstory I first met Dr. Bob Gramling, head of the lab, in 2016 when developing the end-of-life doula training programs at UVM. I quickly recognized him as a kindred spirit. His calm demeanor, kind heart, and creative vision spoke to me. We worked together on some teaching projects and speaking events, and then I asked Bob to...
Greetings! I'm Francesca Lynn Arnoldy, a community doula, author, and educator. I'm on a mission to raise awareness about the importance of death literacy while encouraging connection and compassion. JOIN ME ON THE JOURNEY!