WHAT IS A DAD?

As we celebrate Father's Day 2013, we ponder this special role in a family. Our biological Dad! We may have an adoptive Dad! He's the father of our children. Grandfather takes a new role. A Father figure could be a coach, teacher, boss! He's one-half of a parent set! Mom and Dad! Ma and Pa! He has different names- pere, padre, papa, babbo, daddy! If he is good at what he does, he helps to mould character and is there for you. Watches you dance, play hockey, sing at a school concert, sees you graduate or whatever activity you do! Gives a hug! Tucks you in bed! If a girl, walks you down the aisle! Divorced Dads may only have the job part of the time! They miss their kids and do want to be part of their lives. They divorce their Mom but never really divorce their children! Some Dads do more housework and cooking than others. Some are real handy men! Most like to cut the grass especially if there is a sit down lawn mover. Dads are important in children's lives! So to all the Dads out there- get to it! You have an important part in this world! Happy Father's Day!

NANA SAYS A TRIP TO THE FARM IS FUN

For children of all ages. A recent short jaunt to a local farm with activities for children was worthwhile. Forsythe Family Farms in Markham Ontario is one of many farms throughout Canada that have wagon rides, corn mazes and areas to pet and feed animals. In our visit- goats and sheep- were the main attraction. Watching my little grandson take off when a baby goat wanted some of the food he had in his hand was amusing. My granddaughter liked holding and petting the bunny. Buying some fresh plums for the children and a large garlic for Granpa rounded out the visit. Perhaps we will return in the Fall when there are harvest events involving pumpkins! Do you like to take your children or grandchildren to Farms for fun?

GENEALOGY IS NOT SEXIST

As a matter of fact, most avid family historians are always hunting for that elusive great-great-great-grandmother so another surname can help the journey back in time. Despite modern times and thinking, the baby boy is still preferred over the baby girl in many cultures. To carry on the surname! Superior! Makes the Dad look important! There are many hypenated names that include both parents' names or the middle name can be the mother's last name. In genealogy it takes two- we want to know about the pairs- the 2 parents, the 4 grandparents, the 8 great-grandparents and so on! To think an advanced discipline that does not discriminate against one sex! Perhaps genealogy needs to carry its message to the world. Although it is one of the more popular hobbies, some people still miss the point of its real purpose. Family lines include everyone. The maternal influence is equal to any paternal influence. The names, the history, the country, all include great stories in any family story. Do you have family stories that include all your womenfolk? Isn't it exciting when another name is found? Love of genealogy has been one of my passions for over 26 years. Now with more information on the Internet, it is easier to find missing pieces to your puzzle. Or perhaps you are a lucky one that has someone in your family that has completed your histories? Tell me your story-I would love to hear!