I don't often comment, but I've been lurking for the better part of nine
years. You have the right idea, Jean ... to listen and learn. Old-timers,
right or wrong, can get a little bit crusty when someone who's just arrived
(relatively) either tries to act like they know it all or they ask questions
that indicate they haven't done any basic research. I doubt if it's even
possible to ask intelligent questions without spending a little bit of time
at the library, first ... or at least reading up on genealogy and having
some sense of what's going on. Asking questions is always helped by
providing as much information (who, what, where, when) as you have, and by
staying on topic. Current events and rants on politics, religion, or any
such topic will usually get you snapped at by someone. We haven't had a real
sniping war for quite some time, and I hope (knock wood) we don't. Paul and
Henry have been quite gracious in sharing their knowledge and if you listen
to them long enough you'll learn a lot. Welcome to you and all the rest of
the newbies.

Chuck West, a former newbie, now getting crusty in Indiana

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jean Mayes" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2004 2:43 PM
Subject: newbies


> I have read several comments about people who are new to the list.  I
> signed up to learn something, not to give advice, because I don't know
very
> much about genealogy.  I do want to learn and I have learned quite a bit
by
> reading the notes to the list.  I do hope that those of you who have been
> doing genealogy for many years don't mind some of us newbies joining the
> list.  I want to learn all I can and have found some valuable information.
> Thanks to all who are willing to share.  We all have to start somewhere.
> Many of us cannot travel to all the states where our forefathers lived and
> the internet lists, etc. is a valuable aid to us.  I have been to several
> states and have checked records., but I have never had the priviledge of
> visiting Virginia where my great grandfather and those before him were
> born.  Thanks for helping.  Jean
>
> To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions
at
> http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html
>

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