Have you ever had the feeling you are part of something greater than you could ever imagine? I hope so, because you are.

We each come from a line of ancestors whose lives crossed and merged until one day, you and I made our entrance into the world.

Imagine knowing those people, the choices they made, the paths they followed, and the lives they led to create the opportunity for our lives to begin.

We will never know all of our forebears, that much is true. What is also true is that for most of us, we can learn about our ancestors, at least a little bit, if we know what questions to ask, where to look for answers, and then take the time to do it.

For over 20 years I have desired to “know.” I want to know all I can about my family. The funny thing is, the more I know, the more I want to know! This is just part of the miracle of family history – that once you get going, it really is hard to stop!

Fortunately for all of us, family history and genealogical records are more accessible than ever, and because of that, record numbers of people are experiencing the joy of family history for themselves. They laugh, they cry, they connect, they marvel, they wonder, they compile, they search, and they search some more.

And along the way, as you seek out your ancestors, you may be surprised at how many times you encounter moments of serendipity. You may have a chance encounter, a stroke of luck, a happy accident, or a seemingly random event helping you on your path to discovery that has no other explanation than, quite simply, your ancestors and your family want to be found. Perhaps they want to connect with you as much as you want to connect with them! I have experienced moments like this, and each time I do, I am awed and humbled to think that truly, I really am part of something so much greater than myself.

After years of research and discovery, joy and wonder and ah-ha moments sprinkled with serendipity, I decided it was high time to share what I have learned in an easily accessible way. What good are family stories if not told? What good is knowledge if not shared? What good is serendipity if kept hidden?

Some of you may be my family members, here to learn about your ancestors. Some of you may be distant cousins, trying to make a connection. Some of you may be searching for research tips or inspiration.

Whoever you are, and why ever you are here, I invite you to join me as I share family stories, moments of serendipity, and research tips and ideas to help you experience the joy of family history.

Thank you for being here!

Jessica