Dusty:

1. Start with the video animations
<http://www.smgf.org/pages/animations.jspx> and know the differences among
the types of DNA tests and what the purpose of each is.

2. Decide what question(s) you want answered about which ancestor(s).

3. Follow Roberta Estes's blog <http://dna-explained.com>. She has posted
about every other day for the past year.

4. Get your 87-year-old male cousin tested by FamilyTreeDNA.com (FTDNA)
for his and your late father's yDNA, even at the low 12-marker
anthropological level. For genealogical results, at least 37 markers are
needed. His cheek brushings specimen will be preserved for 25 years so
that additional tests and upgrades can be ordered later. Become the
_contact_ person for his results and the _beneficiary_ of his results at
FTDNA. Or find another member of your family who is willing to take on
that responsibility.

5. Obtain autosomal DNA testing on yourself at 23andMe.com or
FamilyTreeDNA.com. If you obtain testing at 23andMe.com or another
company, it is advisable to transfer your data (does not include the spit
specimen) to FTDNA (for a fee) and to GEDmatch.com (free) to obtain
additional matches. FTDNA is currently having a sale through part of July.

6. Join a DNA genealogy group in your local area or within your local
genealogical society for information, discussion, and help.

Or hire a professional genetic genealogist to make the testing decisions
and interpret the results for you. One place to find such a person is at
the Association for Professional Genealogists <www.apgen.org>. Another
place is on the DNA blogs: _DNA eXplained_, _Your Genetic Genealogist_,
_The Genetic Genealogist_, and _The Legal Genealogist_.

Hope this helps.

--Ida Skarson McCormick, [log in to unmask], Seattle,
Member of the Seattle Genealogical Society's DNA Interest Group

------------------------
Dusty wrote:
I have read most of what you referred me and am nonetheless very
confused. I find it overwhelming.

<snip>

To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe, please see the instructions at
http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html