Genealogy (Do-Over) Go-Over 2017 — Blog 1 January Goals

I was an active participant in the Genealogy Do-Over during all four quarters of 2015 (the first year). I had expected to continue working with the group in 2016, but ill-health interfered with me throughout the year. About the only thing I accomplished in 2016 was to purchase and to download my electronic copy of the Genealogy Do-Over Workbook.

Last month I began thinking about following the group again during 2017. I felt I could safely review my 2015 experiences without getting ahead of myself. I found the workbook in my files, studied the introduction and the entry for Month One. I am engaging in a Go-Over rather than a complete Do-Over, which is basically what I have been doing since I started these activities two years ago.

Month One has two activities. The remainder of this blog addressed the first of these as noted in the workbook: "Work on organizing files, both digital and paper. Then locate essential documents that prove a relationship, and either set them aside or provide an Index … sort of like a Top 20 or Top 50 list."

I reviewed the steps I had taken in 2015 and found them to be basically sound. I could locate my data; my planning and my research records are easily found and understood. I anticipate changes (refinements) as I use these documents. If these changes don't develop, I will know that I have stopped growing. But since these changes will probably be refinements, rather than major changes in plans, they will become part of my ongoing genealogy activities, rather than something I need to address in Month One.

I will mention this blog to the Do-Over group on Facebook. I would like to have your feedback — either on Facebook or directly to the blog. Do I sound like I have made a reasonable and considered assessment? Or do I sound smug. (I am quite serious about the smugness. My mother NEVER needed to change and grow, she had decided about life and everything else should bow before her decisions  — including the weather! I began fighting this, as soon as I recognized this trait in her; but early example is the hardest life lesson to change!)

I am hoping I have met the goals in Activity One. I am going to need all the time I can find for Activity Two.