It occurred to me that I could save some money by doing the easy bits myself . I contacted my father's sister and she was kind enough to provide me with a lot of information and some pictures. I began to write for vital records, check cemeteries, write to local historical societies. Much information has been obtained thru the kindness of the many "cousins" I have met online. I have also taken a lot of information from various online resources and family trees like World Connect, Genealogical Library's Family Archives, Genforum, Rootsweb, and of course Family Search from the Church of Latter Day Saints.
Because this has been a done for my own personal enjoyment I did not keep good source records; and yes , I know it was stupid. It has only been recently that I thought it would be a good idea to put my information on the web as a help to others. To go back now and try to track down all the sources would be daunting if not just plain impossible! I put what I have on the web with the desire of sharing what I have collected with others. I make no guarantee of accuracy for anything, nor has it been my intention to "steal" anyone's research! I have read where many people get absolutely livid when other people use their information although I wonder why they put it online in the first place if they did not want anyone to use it!
I would also like to point out that computer wise I am almost completely illiterate. I never did figure out to make a genealogical web site like the many I have visited. I have put my pedigree on World Connect and have linked it to this site. Pretty good for someone who still doesn't know how to tape anything on the VCR! It also has the advantage of being searchable. So while this site is not as polished or sophisticated as the others out there I hope that it can be of use and interest to people. I would love to hear from any cousins out there who would like to share what they have. Any comments or gentle corrections would be appreciated. I would especially love to receive the Holy Grail of genealogical research PICTURES!!!