You can make a little leap–little leaps are the start of something bigger and more productive. Small scale, spur of the moment (this may be less productive–if that is what you manage, however, take it), quick solutions right now build momentum later. You will be ready for and recognize more opportunities everywhere you look.
You can make a BIG LEAP–big leaps usually require more careful planning and a longer lead time. With an extra day to work on your genealogy, pick any day you want. Schedule it ahead of time. Tell all your family and friends that this extra day is all your own.
You might choose to attend the My Ancestors Found-FamilySearch sponsored Family History Jamboree in St. George UT. Several of my genealogy friends at the Family History Library told me that they were planning to attend both days. A client getting on the elevator, held the door to assure me he would see me at my booth in the exhibit hall.
You might choose to spend the day interviewing older family members about what they recall. Select a photograph or two of the family and use these as an entre. The more you have to show, the more they will remember.
You might choose to search a cemetery, or visit an archive or record office. Looking at the actual sources and touching the original records is a stimulus like no other. I keep a file in my research box with records I want to look at–so that I know exactly what they contain and I can determine how to use the evidence I find. I also keep a file of articles and books I want to check. When I get a whole day, an extra day–I am jubilant!
Some people I know, look forward to lounging on the beach or going to dinner and the movies. They relish an evening to attend a sports event. I live an exciting life to me–boring to most of the people I know: visit a library? Are you kidding?
Hooray! An extra day in 2008 to work on your genealogy. And I will find a quiet corner in a new library where I can see what is new and useful to tell you all about. Your favorite genealogist, Arlene Eakle http://www.arleneeakle.com
PS NEW on my Home Page:
- Pay Pal is up and working. You can now order online–books, research, reserve your spot for research trips, etc. Keep your eye on the Home Page.
- Sneak Preview Search–at a price you won’t believe. I’m still working on the copy–you can watch the page evolve. And the research service is genuine–always more than you pay for.
- New articles promised: “Genealogy Resources in England” I’ll bet dollars to donuts you have not searched. Your genealogy may already be compiled! And my article on “Catholics” in the British Isles. Very important, especially for Northern England and those who migrated to Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. The article gives the dates of many Catholic censuses. Once you read about this religion, you will understand the paranoia the English have about the Roman Catholic Church. You will also have a better understanding of the history of Ireland–now and then. These articles need some editing–which I will do over the next few weeks.
My webmaster has been busy.
PPS Watch 14 February for the launch of my VIRGINA Genealogy Blog. I have some great information to share with you. You won’t want to miss a single episode. The blog is FREE.