Genealogy

I really enjoy genealogy.  Cec and I have both researched our families. We've both done our DNA and I've now found four close relatives and I've been in contact with all of them.  One of my cousins I met while in the UK last year!  I find this journey fascinating.

I'm now helping a friend who has an interesting background and would like answers.  We've found anyone with Eastern European ancestry will find records and DNA matches are difficult!  Most Eastern Europeans have not had their DNA analyzed and when they do, it's not attached to a family tree.  There is an international database and I've entered their information without great results.  Hopefully in the future more people with Eastern European heritage will jump on board this train.

My maternal aunt started the family tree the "old" way.  She visited churches and cemetery's in the UK to find birth, baptism and death records.  She also went to Salt Lake City and researched the awesome facility they have there.  Today with the Internet it's much easier.  There are many sites, some require payment.  You can start with the free ones but if you want all the information in one spot, Ancestry.com has the largest database.  They are continuing to add to their massive database.  You can search for free on Ancestry but it's restricted.  If you want more information, wait for their specials.

The international DNA database can be found: GED Match.  You upload your raw DNA data from any of the DNA providers.  This site analyzes DNA results from them all and puts them into an excel spreadsheet. 

Until April 30th, Ancestry has their DNA kit on sale for US $59/CAD $89.  It takes at least six weeks to get results.  You spit into a tube and mail it in a prepaid box to Ireland!  They keep you informed by email and let you know when it's complete.  The number of people who have had their DNA analyzed with direct-to-consumer genetic genealogy tests more than doubled during 2017 and now exceeds 12 million!

The TV show I find very interesting is on TLC, "Long Lost Family".  It's broadcast in Canada Sunday nights at 7 PM Pacific Time.  The US show is in it's 4th Season!  There is a UK version of Long Lost Family!  They search for adopted family members.  If you watch it, get a Kleenex.  They find the birth parents/siblings of people who were adopted and reunite them!  I've found a You Tube showing a snip it of the show if you haven't seen it.  Long Lost Family 

This weekend I'm attending an all day genealogy seminar in Abbotsford.  There is always something to learn so if you are interested in finding your family roots, this is a rewarding experience.  I will gladly help anyone if they need assistance.