Cynthia,

I feel ya on this one.

My Jeters (now Geders) are a mixed bag of reunion enthusiasts. The major problem is that we are spread out - East coast, West coast, and even the close cluster of family are a couple of hundred miles apart. That explains travel/vacation concerns.

I'm the main family historian, but I'm also the farthest one away - AND the farthest one away from those courthouse-basement-buried documents. So, in order for the Jeter/Geder reunion to become more than an expanded picnic, I wish that I could be there. Now, there's plenty value in the expanded picnic amongst family; don't get me wrong.

Whatever you do, don't stop talking about the Ancestors! They are counting on us! The reunions are only a part of the struggle to give voice to our Ancestors.

Personally, I'm about to miss TWO family reunions this year. I have stuff to share with both; so it's Kinko's and Priority Mail, then wait for that nephew or grandniece to ask and e-mail questions about their Ancestors - and hope that I can catch up with them at next year's family reunion.

I'm a firm believer that the Ancestors speak to us. There is so much to tell; how they got here and what they endured. And the fact that they were here at all!

My Hancocks (mother's side) are having a reunion in Pittsburg, PA; miles away from their main origins of SC and FL. They're recent discoveries and have invited me, but I can't get the time away from work when they are meeting. Plus they are across the country from me (in CA)!

I think I've whined enough. Just remember, this genealogy thing is a lifelong gig. There will be ebbs and flows; and many more family reunions to come. Don't despair, the Ancestors won't allow it!

Peace
"Guided by the Ancestors"