If you are going to meet someone about shared family, read this.
Miss Hortense is bored. But Master Julian is attentive and open to learn more. One of the things that confounds me, constantly, is how people's minds wander. I say that because if my brain wasn't attached goodness knows where it would be. We all have those days, those topics, those moments when we lose sight on the purpose of our task. When it comes to meeting with distant relatives, or making connections with people who have agreed to share information, images, documents - whatever - that can aid us in the search for our ancestors, we have to sometimes remind ourselves to be on our best manners. This means looking your best, being prompt if you are arriving (or forgiving if they are coming to you), and being prepared with paper, pencil, and having anything you wish to share with them ready. All of these points show that you respect their time, their help, and their interests. Other do's and don't include: DO accept a beverage if offered. The are...