Best wishes to all my Genealogy pals from the Harbour City. May you find a virtual sledgehammer to knock down those pesky brick walls.
Each year our city hosts a magnificent fireworks display to celebrate the dawn of the New Year. When the kids were little we would visit friends and together stroll to a vantage point to watch the skies light up. Now that we are older and have less energy we prefer to watch the televised show .... but there is nothing like the real thing.
Here is a snippet from NYE 2008/2009:
Thursday, December 31, 2009
New Year's Resolutions! Carnival of Genealogy 87th Edition
As a great believer in the place of reflection/evaluation in the process associated with any task my first task is to repost and evaluate my list for 2009 below.
*********************************************
By taking part in this Carnival I am forcing myself to reflect on the haphazard way in which I approach my genealogy hobby. I am retiring from fulltime employment this month so I should have mor
e time to devote to my search for ancestors and distant cousins. In 2009 I will endeavour to:
* Get organised;
Still working on this one.
* Label my archive of Blogposts and all new posts;
Have retrospectively tagged and now try to tag as I go.
* Post to Geniaus every second day;
Except for holiday periods or when away from home have posted on a daily basis.
* Go through ancestors records one by one and properly record sources for all information; This is happening in a most haphazard manner - needs attention.
* Move my paper files into one sequence and out of their family-based folders;
Have sorted all files into one long alphabetical sequence by individual names.
* Digitise all certificates, wills etc. in my posession;
Partially completed.
* Scan and tag my family history photographs;
Slow process - 1600 more old photos scanned, 60,000+ digital photos tagged.
* Update and redesign my website;
Major project of transferring files and commissioning site http://www.geniaus.net is complete but, as site is continually evolving, it will never be finished.
* Respond to emails from fellow genealogists in a timely manner;
I hope that I have done so.
* Rejoin The Society of Australian Genealogists.
Have joined the Society.
************************
And now for 2010
I am fairly pleased with my progress in 2009. The retirement I had anticipated would give me lots of time was short-lived as I took on a part-time role in a family business. I would not have missed this opportunity for the world - I have enjoyed working in a completely new industry.
In addition to progressing with my 2009 resolutions I will add some more to my 2010 list. My updated list follows
* Put the living before the dead - when family members visit make them the focus of my attention;
* Take advantage of serendipity moments eg actively listen to the Aunts at family gatherings, take photos of family members/groups at gatherings; record notes of information shared on my smartphone, scraps of paper, serviettes - just get it down;
* Use web 2.0 technologies to promote genealogy in Australia, eg GoogleWave, Twitter, GenealogyWise Australian Group;
* Be patient with fellow researchers who do not share my enthusiasm for technology;
* Get organised;
* Label my Blogposts ;
* Post to Geniaus at least every second day;
* Go through ancestors records one by one and properly record sources for all information;
* Digitise all certificates, wills etc. in my posession;
* Scan and tag my family history photographs;
* Regularly update my website;
* Respond to emails from fellow genealogists in a timely manner;
* Maintain membership of The Society of Australian Genealogists;
* Attend Genealogy workshops/lectures.
*********************************************
By taking part in this Carnival I am forcing myself to reflect on the haphazard way in which I approach my genealogy hobby. I am retiring from fulltime employment this month so I should have mor
e time to devote to my search for ancestors and distant cousins. In 2009 I will endeavour to: * Get organised;
Still working on this one.
* Label my archive of Blogposts and all new posts;
Have retrospectively tagged and now try to tag as I go.
* Post to Geniaus every second day;
Except for holiday periods or when away from home have posted on a daily basis.
* Go through ancestors records one by one and properly record sources for all information; This is happening in a most haphazard manner - needs attention.
* Move my paper files into one sequence and out of their family-based folders;
Have sorted all files into one long alphabetical sequence by individual names.
* Digitise all certificates, wills etc. in my posession;
Partially completed.
* Scan and tag my family history photographs;
Slow process - 1600 more old photos scanned, 60,000+ digital photos tagged.
* Update and redesign my website;
Major project of transferring files and commissioning site http://www.geniaus.net is complete but, as site is continually evolving, it will never be finished.
* Respond to emails from fellow genealogists in a timely manner;
I hope that I have done so.
* Rejoin The Society of Australian Genealogists.
Have joined the Society.
************************
And now for 2010I am fairly pleased with my progress in 2009. The retirement I had anticipated would give me lots of time was short-lived as I took on a part-time role in a family business. I would not have missed this opportunity for the world - I have enjoyed working in a completely new industry.
In addition to progressing with my 2009 resolutions I will add some more to my 2010 list. My updated list follows
* Put the living before the dead - when family members visit make them the focus of my attention;
* Take advantage of serendipity moments eg actively listen to the Aunts at family gatherings, take photos of family members/groups at gatherings; record notes of information shared on my smartphone, scraps of paper, serviettes - just get it down;
* Use web 2.0 technologies to promote genealogy in Australia, eg GoogleWave, Twitter, GenealogyWise Australian Group;
* Be patient with fellow researchers who do not share my enthusiasm for technology;
* Get organised;
* Label my Blogposts ;
* Post to Geniaus at least every second day;
* Go through ancestors records one by one and properly record sources for all information;
* Digitise all certificates, wills etc. in my posession;
* Scan and tag my family history photographs;
* Regularly update my website;
* Respond to emails from fellow genealogists in a timely manner;
* Maintain membership of The Society of Australian Genealogists;
* Attend Genealogy workshops/lectures.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Top 10 End-of-Decade Netbooks
It is over two years snce I acquired my first ASUS netbook. I have since replaced it with a later model and would like to upgrade again.
A netbook is one of my essential genealogical tools on which I carry my database in a copy of TMG. It fits snugly in my large handbag when I travel. As well as providing me with a means of keeping in touch via internet and email it allows ready access to my genealaogy database. I also use my smartphone for internet, email and reading RSS feeds but find that the netbook's larger screen size makes for easier access to familydata.
Listed in this article are the top ten netbooks nominated by APC. If you travel and don't have a netbook now is the time to rectify that situation.
Top 10 End-of-Decade Netbooks
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A netbook is one of my essential genealogical tools on which I carry my database in a copy of TMG. It fits snugly in my large handbag when I travel. As well as providing me with a means of keeping in touch via internet and email it allows ready access to my genealaogy database. I also use my smartphone for internet, email and reading RSS feeds but find that the netbook's larger screen size makes for easier access to familydata.
Listed in this article are the top ten netbooks nominated by APC. If you travel and don't have a netbook now is the time to rectify that situation.
Top 10 End-of-Decade Netbooks
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Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
Figures tsar with flair for making friends and foes | The Australian
Australia's market research tsar, Gary Morgan, has an interest in family history.
Figures tsar with flair for making friends and foes | The Australian
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Figures tsar with flair for making friends and foes | The Australian
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Thursday, December 24, 2009
A Dog's Christmas
Taking a rest from Christmas preparations I am thinking of friends. Dogs, man's best friends, have been an important part of our family history.
We have had a few pooches over the years - they have been 'orphan' dogs - either surrendered to the local council or purchased from the pound. Robbie was a deceased next door neighbour's dog given to me by one of my students. Each of these hounds has had a unique personality and ha
s enhanced our family life.
Our first dog Thomas didn't stay with the family long, he was a little too energetic for our tiny courtyard and so went to live with some very good friends who had a much larger yard. Willy, a Border Collie cross, was a gentle and obedient larrikin who was scared of storms. The only time he ventured onto the carpeted areas of our home was when a storm was brewing and he was seeking refuge under a chair or table. When we moved to an acreage Willy became adventurous and was able to find his way out of our property. He was the victim of a car travelling along the road outside our house.
Robbie, an Australian Silky Terrier, was my dog. He followed me everywhere and snarled at anyone who came too close to me. The kids had enormous fun dressing Robbie in doll's clothes and parading him around. Mr Geniaus did not appreciate Robbie's over-protectiveness.
Marty, another fluffy d
og, a cross Maltese Terrier/Shitzu wasn't blessed with a similar intelligence to the other dogs but he was another loyal companion who follwed me around the house. When we rescued him from the pound he would cower in the corner under a chair and was very timid. After a few months he realised that ours was a safe environment and he realised that he was in charge. Sadly Marty met a cruel end at the paws and jaws of a neighbour's German Shepherd. Until we can guarantee its safety by electrifying our fences or securely fencing off an area close to our house I will not have another dog. I do miss the company of a little four-legged friend.
We have three grand-dogs who regularly visit. Ralph, a Border Collie cross, is now an old man who likes to spend his day resting. Like Willy he is gentle and intelligent. Little Neuro is a bundle of energy who, although he is over five, still races round with the energy of a new pup. Buddy, a handsome red and white Border Collie, arrived last Christmas. He has boundless energy and enjoys digging up the garden.
And here it is Christmas Eve.
The children are sleepin' all cozy upstairs,
While I'm guardin' the stockin's and tree.
What's THAT now . . . footsteps on the rooftop?
Could it be a cat or a mouse?
Who's THIS down the chimney?
A thief with a beard - And a big sack for robbin' the house?
I'm barkin'. . . I'm growlin' . . . I'm bitin' his butt.
He howls and jumps back in his sleigh.
I scared his strange horses, they leap in the air.
I've frightened the whole bunch away.
Now the house is all peaceful and quiet again,
The stockin's are safe as can be.
Won't the kiddies be glad when they wake up tomorrow . . .
And see how I've guarded the tree.
We have had a few pooches over the years - they have been 'orphan' dogs - either surrendered to the local council or purchased from the pound. Robbie was a deceased next door neighbour's dog given to me by one of my students. Each of these hounds has had a unique personality and ha
s enhanced our family life.Our first dog Thomas didn't stay with the family long, he was a little too energetic for our tiny courtyard and so went to live with some very good friends who had a much larger yard. Willy, a Border Collie cross, was a gentle and obedient larrikin who was scared of storms. The only time he ventured onto the carpeted areas of our home was when a storm was brewing and he was seeking refuge under a chair or table. When we moved to an acreage Willy became adventurous and was able to find his way out of our property. He was the victim of a car travelling along the road outside our house.
Robbie, an Australian Silky Terrier, was my dog. He followed me everywhere and snarled at anyone who came too close to me. The kids had enormous fun dressing Robbie in doll's clothes and parading him around. Mr Geniaus did not appreciate Robbie's over-protectiveness.
Marty, another fluffy d
og, a cross Maltese Terrier/Shitzu wasn't blessed with a similar intelligence to the other dogs but he was another loyal companion who follwed me around the house. When we rescued him from the pound he would cower in the corner under a chair and was very timid. After a few months he realised that ours was a safe environment and he realised that he was in charge. Sadly Marty met a cruel end at the paws and jaws of a neighbour's German Shepherd. Until we can guarantee its safety by electrifying our fences or securely fencing off an area close to our house I will not have another dog. I do miss the company of a little four-legged friend.We have three grand-dogs who regularly visit. Ralph, a Border Collie cross, is now an old man who likes to spend his day resting. Like Willy he is gentle and intelligent. Little Neuro is a bundle of energy who, although he is over five, still races round with the energy of a new pup. Buddy, a handsome red and white Border Collie, arrived last Christmas. He has boundless energy and enjoys digging up the garden.
A Dog's Christmas Poem by Shel Silverstein
Tonight's my first night as a watchdog,And here it is Christmas Eve.
The children are sleepin' all cozy upstairs,
While I'm guardin' the stockin's and tree.
What's THAT now . . . footsteps on the rooftop?
Could it be a cat or a mouse?
Who's THIS down the chimney?
A thief with a beard - And a big sack for robbin' the house?
I'm barkin'. . . I'm growlin' . . . I'm bitin' his butt.
He howls and jumps back in his sleigh.
I scared his strange horses, they leap in the air.
I've frightened the whole bunch away.
Now the house is all peaceful and quiet again,
The stockin's are safe as can be.
Won't the kiddies be glad when they wake up tomorrow . . .
And see how I've guarded the tree.
Learn To Preserve Family Memories - Denver News Story - KMGH Denver
As you share a meal at Christmas share and record some memories too.
Learn To Preserve Family Memories - Denver News Story - KMGH Denver
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Learn To Preserve Family Memories - Denver News Story - KMGH Denver
Recording family histories before it's too late
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Publish Post
Heartwarming reunion for sisters in Southport
A Southport lady has had the best Christmas present she could ask for - a heartwarming reunion with the sister she never knew she had for sixty years.
Champion Newspapers, Local News, Sport, Arts, Podcasts and Blogs
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Champion Newspapers, Local News, Sport, Arts, Podcasts and Blogs
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Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Connecting at Christmas the high-tech way
A tale of three generations from the SMH
Christmas | Cisco | Telepresence | video conference
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Christmas | Cisco | Telepresence | video conference
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Christmas News from our Nation's Capital
There will be no Nativity Scene in Canberra this year!
The High Court has ruled that there cannot be a Nativity scene in the Australian Capital this Christmas season.
This is not for any religious reason. They simply have not been able to find Three Wise Men in the Nation's Capital. A search for a Virgin continues.
There was no problem, however, in finding enough asses to fill the stable.
Official Google Blog: Unofficial tech support returns home for the holidays
What role do you assume when the family gets together for Christmas?
Official Google Blog: Unofficial tech support returns home for the holidays
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Official Google Blog: Unofficial tech support returns home for the holidays
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Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
Overseas memorial database goes live
From the DVA December Newsletter:
Planning trips to Australian memorials while overseas, including the Australian War Memorial in London and the 1943 Kokoda Track Memorial, is now much easier with the help of a new online resource.
The Overseas Memorials Search http://memorials.dva.gov.au includes details and photographs of more than 110 official and privately constructed overseas memorials which honour Australian service across the globe.
The database will continue to grow as data is collected. Those who have information about the location or details of overseas memorials are invited to contact the Department’s Office of Australian War Graves at wargraves@dva.gov.au.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Destination: Austin Family: Follow Friday - Carole's Canvas
So good to see one of our Australian genealogists, Carole Riley, being highlighted in the US.
Destination: Austin Family: Follow Friday - Carole's Canvas
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Destination: Austin Family: Follow Friday - Carole's Canvas
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Sydney’s Italian fruit shops: a history « Local Notes
This article remids me of neighbourhood fruit shops in my childhood: Cutrupi's at Kensington and Casamento's at Darlinghurst.
Sydney’s Italian fruit shops: a history « Local Notes
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Sydney’s Italian fruit shops: a history « Local Notes
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Saturday, December 19, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Top 100 Irish Australians revealed
I recently came across Australia's Irish newspaper, Irish Echo, online.
As my fathers ancestors were all Irish I have an interest in all thing Irish so I had browse through the paper. I found an interesting article from November, Top 100 Irish Australians revealed. Sadly none of my lot were on the list.
If you have Irish ancestors take a look, you may find mention of an ancestor.
As my fathers ancestors were all Irish I have an interest in all thing Irish so I had browse through the paper. I found an interesting article from November, Top 100 Irish Australians revealed. Sadly none of my lot were on the list.
If you have Irish ancestors take a look, you may find mention of an ancestor.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Dear Genea-Santa: 86th Carnival of Genealogy
Dear Genea-Santa,
I've looked at a couple of lists of gift suggestions for genealogists and have realised that I am a lucky old genealogist as I have many of the goodies suggested on the lists.
From Julie Miller, Senior Times and Carole's Canvas are lists of gift ideas. These are many wonderful suggestions - our individual needs will dictate those items an individual would most desire.
As well as some concrete items, Dear Genea-Santa, I would be pleased to have the following:
Perseverance when I encounter a brick wall;
Patience when dealing with individuals who don't quite get IT;
Time to indulge my passion for family history;
Generosity to share the results of my research;
Meticulousness when recording my research findings;
Understanding for those who are reluctant to embrace new technology like Google Wave;
Good Health and Energy to continue with my endeavours.
Please continue to spread peace and goodwill to all men as you set out on your Christmas journey.
Thanks, Geniaus
This article was written for the Carnival of Genealogy - 86th edition
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Christmas at the Cross
In the early 1950s Geniaus attended kindergarten (preschool) in Sydney's King's Cross.My gift for this carnival is a photo of Geniaus, her kindy pals and teacher in front of the tree at the Kindergarten Christmas Party. The children were required to wear fancy dress for the party; luckily Geniaus had an outfit from her ballet concert that she could wear. Some of the children are clutching the Christmas stockings we received as gifts on the day.
Geniaus is the little sailor girl on the bottom left of the photo. The tall girl in the middle back row with short, dark, curly hair is, fifty-five years later, Geniaus' friend. She is my son's best friend's mother. It's a small world!
This post was prepared for the Smile for the Camera, 19th Edition Carnival - Gift
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Readers in the Mist: For genealogists
Blue Mountains Historical Society offer free workshops at Springwood Library
Readers in the Mist: For genealogists
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Readers in the Mist: For genealogists
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Family History Online « Community Technology Centre
Resources for genealogists in Oberon, NSW
Family History Online « Community Technology Centre
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Family History Online « Community Technology Centre
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Monday, December 7, 2009
How do you present your research results?
The Internet provides us with many avenues to discuss not only our own family history but the methods we use to record our stories. It is great to see that Australian sites and groups are becoming more active and posting polls and discussions relevant to genealogists downunder.
The bods at Unlock the Past http://www.unlockthepast.com.au/ have posted their latest Genealogy Poll How do you present your research results? Visit their site and record your results by 17th December.
Co-incidentally Erica, member of the Australian Genealogists Group on GenealogyWise, added a group discussion Where on the web do you leave your information? Please consider joining the Group and contributing to this and other Aussie discussions.
The bods at Unlock the Past http://www.unlockthepast.com.au/ have posted their latest Genealogy Poll How do you present your research results? Visit their site and record your results by 17th December.
Co-incidentally Erica, member of the Australian Genealogists Group on GenealogyWise, added a group discussion Where on the web do you leave your information? Please consider joining the Group and contributing to this and other Aussie discussions.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Educause - help for Genies in a web2.0 world
Educause "is a nonprofit association whose mission is to advance higher education by promoting the intelligent use of information technology."
On the Educause site there is growing collection of resources (presently 55): 7 Things you should know about. These publications in .pdf format (although I haven't checked them all out.) explain in simple language various web based applications.
If you are flummoxed by Flip Camcorders, confused by Creative Commons, excited by e-books, boggled by Blogs, gobsmacked by GoogleWave or worried by Wikipedia then head over to the 7 Things you should know about at Educause and you will be illuminated.
On the Educause site there is growing collection of resources (presently 55): 7 Things you should know about. These publications in .pdf format (although I haven't checked them all out.) explain in simple language various web based applications.
If you are flummoxed by Flip Camcorders, confused by Creative Commons, excited by e-books, boggled by Blogs, gobsmacked by GoogleWave or worried by Wikipedia then head over to the 7 Things you should know about at Educause and you will be illuminated.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
transportation-australia.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)
Podcast from The National Archives
transportation-australia.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)
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transportation-australia.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)
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