Have you ever wondered about your family history? Where you came from? What influenced you to be you? I sure have!
Knowing my family history has always been of interest to me. I wanted to know, where did my family immigrate from, why did we immigrate, who did we meet along the way, where did we live and move to once in the Unites States, and what were their names?
When I was in eighth grade, a beloved teacher assigned us to create a family tree. We were given a list of questions to interview a minimum of four people. We then took that information, created a diagram of a family tree, and scrapbooked family photos. My younger sister then expanded this project when she was in the same class. I now have that project sitting in my living room to be able to look back at.
The only thing was, the project results were a bit limiting, because we only had a few names beyond our grandparents. I finally decided it was time to collect as much information as possible and create an expansive family tree that can be shared. What better time than now, when many have been spending a bit more time at home.
I quickly started to find out that I was not the only person in my family with this interest. Far distanced cousins had also collected and created their own trees. I was soon able to take all of these varying branches and create one large family tree. I figured that some of my family stories got lost along the way due to many family members not wanting to talk about their past. So it was so exciting to be able to learn these stories from family members who did discuss our collective history.
Interestingly, our family history travels through us emotionally and physically. For example, if we enjoyed family holiday traditions enjoyable, we are likely to want to continue those traditions, or if we dislike them, we may turn away or create different ones. It is also interesting it to see what likes and dislikes we might share with our ancestors. Within my family, many members have been community leaders proving support and guidance for others, had creative roles in the fashion and art industry, and performed as singers or dancers. All of these are interests of mine! I can easily recall many times being exposed to these fields of work and hobbies and they clearly left a positive impact in my life.
As Cody and I are developing our own sub-family, we are learning about one another’s families. It has been such a joy to hear about both sides of his family gathering together to eat, sing karaoke, and dressing in fun costumes and outfits. And, I have relished in being able to share with him stories about my own family hosting regular dinners, July 4th BBQ’s, and going on an annual summer trip, most often to family camp at Callaway Gardens.
These talks have allowed us to recognize our shared interests and values. We have learned about our love for hosting events, going on hikes, traveling around the country and world, visiting family, and of course, snuggling with our fur-babies. It has also given us insight into how we like to spend our time and show our love for one another.
I am so excited to learn more about our families and to see how our tree will continue to grow, what traditions we will keep, and what adventures we will create.
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