Connecting the dots... represents the culmination of organizing boxes, folders and piles of photos and documents that had been collecting in closets and cupboards over four generations. The one common denominator that existed was at least a partial understanding of the German language. As the fifth generation enters the picture, that factor disappears. Hence the need presented itself to make sure that these materials were organized and presented to an agency that could offer a means to translate and utilize the facts and secrets that were contained within.

The hours spent in deciphering, shuffling, scanning and organizing in fact offered a much greater understanding of where every person fit into a large genealogical web. Conversations took place via phone, skype and in-person, helping to solve mysteries. The result will hopefully offer my family some insights into their heritage.