Today I started reflecting and realized that I miss my Intermountain Chapter family. It's been such a crazy year, something out of the Twilight Zone or Jumanji. Spending so much time at home has made me aware that I need all of you and what you've added to my life. It has given me time to dig into my research and get to know my ancestors better. I have become grateful for all of you for the information you've shared with me.
If I'm honest, I had only small and occasional successes until I joined AHSGR. Without all the work of others, I'd still be stumbling around in the dark. Having the resources available through the organization has helped me locate censuses and church records. I better understand the social history of my people.
In a more personal way, even very brief associations have enriched my life and research. At the convention in Kansas, I met a man whose great-grandmother was a sister to my great-grandmother. I'd known of the sister and had so many questions. He filled in the story for me and went home for pictures that he gave to me for keeps. I discovered a distant relative, related through both my German Russian heritage and my LDS pioneers. What fun that was for me. One chapter member, Sharon White, is related through several lines. She freely shares information, allowing me to make breakthroughs. She and many others have contributed so much to other's research.
I could mention many chapter members who helped reorganize and bring back the Intermountain Chapter, but I'd surely miss someone. Please, know how much you are appreciated. Thanks for all of your continuing hard work and effort. I am anxious for the day that we can meet together in person and enjoy the fellowship face to face.
Before this all gets too sappy, I'll stop. Just a bit of information first. I've been using my time at home to take genealogy courses online through Salt Lake Community College. It's opened up some new interests and filled a lot of skill gaps for me. If you're looking for something extra, check into it. Even better, if you are of retirement age and live in Utah, classes cost a whopping $10 for a semester. Here's hoping that you stay healthy, happy, and productive.
