I'm proud to add the "Ancestor Approved" logo to "Along Spain Creek," with a sincere "Thank You!" to Linda Ellis for the honor. Family history research is more than a hobby with me; it is a passion. I've been at it now for over a half-century, and intend to continue my efforts until my last breath. Researching my family lineage has provided me with some exceptional perspectives:
- I make it a point to take a few minutes each day to honor my father, mother, step-father, and the many other relatives who contributed to who I am today.
- I have learned that true family history research is detail-oriented, requires source documentation, is time-consuming, and is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
- I have come to realize that sharing of acquired family history information is just as much fun as researching it.
- I am truly thankful that my ancestors were family-oriented, and that those long-ago family reunions were so vital to their lives.
- I am thankful for the genes which have been passed to me by previous generations and which have provided me with longevity, stamina, courage, intellect, and other resources in time of need.
- I am constantly amazed at the tribulations which my ancestors experienced in their lives, and at their resolution to overcome them.
- I am thankful that I have been able to acquire all of this information to pass on to my children and my grandchildren so they can likewise be grateful for their heritage.
- I am glad to be living in this age of technology and access to the Internet, and for all of the research which has resulted from this accessibility.
- I give praise to my ancestors who sought a better life in the New World, who crossed the ocean, and who helped to build our United States of America. They paved the way for me, and provided me with the very freedoms and liberty which others covet today.
- I am proud of the blood which flows in my veins, of the convictions which are deep-seated in my brain, and of the love of country which fills my heart.
