It has been sometime since I posted last. Just too busy keeping up with email and genealogy. By the way, if you have been missing "Who are You" on TV, by all means give it a try. The fascinating thing about genealogy is not so much where you came from, but where are you going? Your past and ancestors have laid down a path for you and all you have to do is forge ahead.
My ancestors came, primarily, from France (via Canada) and Ireland (Scots-Irish) on my father's side. My mother's side(which has not been thoroughly searched) leans toward French, English and Scots. What they gave me is a sense of courage, devotion and the ability to put myself out there and go for it. They all left homes and family in the old country to come and settle in a new land full of dangers and poverty. They survived and I expect I will be a survivor too. Hopefully, I have taught that to the next generation as well.
Among my ancestors you will find farmers with large families, masons, woodsmen,literary people with the best education they could afford. They worked hard for everything and yet never felt beneath anyone, or better than anyone. What does that translate into these days? Well, it does not speak of royalty or blue blood but it does endure and it brings responsibility, honesty, determination and a desire to be your best at whatever you tackle. No work is beneath you if it pays and you need it. Education is essential and primary. Reading and writing are not just subjects you endure - they are your life blood and will serve you well all your life. Having to work your way through school teaches you the value of what you get and want. There was never time to dally and waste the best years of ones life.
Those of us who are left of that generation have much to be thankful for. Those opportunities may never come again and they were not diluted by machines and speed, which rob you of initiative and curiosity. So, look up your ancestors, say Hello, and try to find your pathway set down for you. It may be the most important thing you do in your life and the most valuable. Good Hunting. PENMOM at 83