How Genealogy Research Relates to Puzzles During my years as a genealogy researcher, I have compared research to the serious practice of working jigsaw puzzles. All the puzzle pieces clearly present the need for analysis and development of solutions. Although the two activities differ in some ways, I share common elements between the two that contribute to successful solutions in puzzle work and genealogy research. Engaging in jigsaw puzzle work involves handling numerous (hundreds or thousands) pieces and limited clues relative to accurately fitting respective pieces into the whole. An effective way to begin the puzzle work is reviewing a picture of the “finished” product and using this as a guide. For puzzle enthusiasts, the work is challenging and time-consuming, but also captivating. The activity presents a great opportunity to practice mindfulness by employing focus, evaluation and analytical practice. Upon completion, a finis
- Discovery Paths to Family History
- I have engaged in genealogy research for about twenty-five years, beginning with my family and expanding my research activity to other families and special interest areas. My intent is to share information about genealogy research and methods to show how we can develop our family stories using research, analysis and documented sources.
