It doesn’t matter when we celebrate, only that we do. Genealogy is all about family: discovering your ethnic branch, your indigenous roots, your European connections and the names of your ancestors. Family is what ties people together. If you…
Genealogy
Now is not the time to take our rights and our democracy for granted
Kate Sheppard would be turning in her grave if she’d been listening to some of the chatter I’ve heard recently. And so would Lucy, (from The Art of Secrets series) the fervent young suffragist who, alongside thousands of other…
The thrill of the rewards you reap
Part of the fun of being an author is the feedback we receive. While they are welcomed with open arms, I don’t only mean the star ratings that appear on Amazon or the reviews that go them or even…
Leapfrogging through the cane fields – Brisbane to Cairns #3
Our progression north was bringing us closer to an exciting point where travel, genealogy and storytelling collided. Along the way, we made a brief stop at Rockhampton, visiting their botanical gardens and zoo and took in the views from…
The weird names of Victorian occupations
In my previous blogs I’ve mostly talked about the women. They are the stalwarts of the time: staunch, loyal and committed. But let’s talk about some of the occupations their menfolk undertook to feed the household. Do you know…
Time to remember those remarkable Victorian women …
This week, let me introduce you to Harriet. Every time I follow the life story of Victorian women I am amazed at their stamina and adaptability. Only seven years younger than Queen Victoria, Harriet knew little about the reign…
Mystery and suspense, but who are these people?
A parcel arrived from overseas. Inside was a collection of family photos dating back to the 1880s. None were dated. Few were named. I immediately found my magnifying glass and plenty of sunshine and inspected them in detail. Some…
Staying with Bristol and Welsh Back from my previous blog for the moment, what always fascinates me about research in the UK and Europe is the history. I especially love the ancient buildings that have stood the test of…
What’s in a name? It depends on when you were born
Do you know what a back is? Or a key? I’m sure you would tell me a key is used to unlock doors, or possibly a vital clue in solving a problem. Maybe even a button on a phone…
A week of celebrations – old and new – with many a story to tell
On a personal level, this week my family and I have or will celebrate our wedding anniversary, our daughter’s birthday, Mother’s Day and the launch of my latest book Lucy on Sunday. It’s been a busy week and watching…