In following Thomas MacEntee’s Open Thread Thursday, in which he asks “What did I accomplish in 2011?” and “What are my goals for 2012?”, this is part one of a two part post answering his questions.
Education – When I first started my blog, less than a year ago, It was my goal to get more serious about my genealogy research. I had been doing genealogy research off and on for several years before the start of my blog. I had figured that my first step back into the genealogy world had to be with education. I had not been serious about my research for so long that I felt I may have lost my touch on my research techniques or with keeping up with genealogical technology. I not only attended the SCGS Jamboree in Burbank in June but I met a bunch of new friends as well! To also supplement the Jamboree conference, I attended a list of webinars, some live and some after they were originally produced. I feel now that I have not only caught up with the times, but have surpassed my genealogy education that I had originally started with. Another education item that I had applied for was for the next ProGen study group. I was accepted and put on a waiting list. Woo Hoo! I should be joining a group shortly after the new year.
Research – With the new education that I had gained, I was able to put them to good use. I had found not only my grandfather’s Mexico Baptism record, but also for two of his daughters, and his three brothers. It was more recently where I believe I found the baptismal records for my great-grandfather’s siblings, but that relationship still needs to be proven. These documents caused my family line to be extended another two generations into Mexico. This is the farthest I have gotten on my dad’s line for the last ten years. I have also research and expanded my husband’s family back a few more generations.
Writing – In twenty days from today, it will be the first anniversary of my blog. I remember during high school that I always wanted to be a writer. A mystery writer to be exact, but I have found that I prefer writing about my family history instead of fiction. I have done more writing in the past year then I did when I took a creative writing class many, many years ago!
Contest – Ever since I had decided to get serious about my family genealogy, I had decided to enter the NGS Family History Writing contest. However, I was waiting to do this for when the NGS conference was either 1) in a state that my research was concerned about or 2) was in a state that was close to me so that if I didn’t win, it wouldn’t cost too much for me to attend. Well it was published that the 2013 NGS conference would be in Las Vegas, NV. I have since drafted part of my submission and have put my research on my research family into high gear. I have until December 31, 2012 to submit my entree for this contest. Wish me luck!!
These are the main accomplishments that pop out in my head. When putting it down in black and white, it is amazing to me that I actually did all of this! 🙂 I can’t wait to see what I accomplish next year!
NEXT….my goals for 2012!
