Fearless Females Blogging Prompts 2026

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Welcome!

In March 2010, I launched a series of 31 blogging prompts for celebrating and honoring the “fearless females” in our family trees. Many bloggers participated and I was asked if I planned on running them again. I’m happy to say that this series is back for a 16th year. [Read the original launch post here]

Fearless Females 2026 Badge

Badge graphic courtesy of Denise Levenick; edits by Lisa Alzo

So, to mark National Women’s History Month, I’m listing the 31 prompts below.

Also, you can download the free badge above to use on your blog to indicate your participation. [A special thanks to my friend and colleague, Denise Levenick, The Family Curator, who created the original version of this badge especially for me for the 2016 edition of Fearless Females].

It is a perfect time to start writing about your female ancestors.

Group of Females

[Group of young women reading in library of normal school, Washington, D.C.]Library of Congress, (Johnston, Frances Benjamin, 1864-1952, photographer.); REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-USZ62-100288 (b&w film copy neg.) DIGITAL ID: (b&w film copy neg.) cph 3c00288 http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3c00288]

Prompts

Fearless Females: 31 Blogging Prompts to Celebrate Women’s History Month

You can choose to do some of the prompts, or all of them–there’s no pressure–it’s meant to be a fun exercise to focus on the women and make sure their stories are told!

March 1 — Do you have a favorite female ancestor? One you are drawn to or want to learn more about? Write down some key facts you have already learned or what you would like to learn and outline your goals and potential sources you plan to check.

March 2 — Post a photo of one of your female ancestors. Who is in the photo? When was it taken? Why did you select this photo?

March 3 — Do you share a first name with one of your female ancestors? Perhaps you were named for your great-grandmother, or your name follows a particular naming pattern. If not, then list the most unique or unusual female first name you’ve come across in your family tree.

March 4 — Do you have marriage records for your grandparents or great-grandparents? Write a post about where they were married and when. Any family stories about the wedding day? Post a photo too if you have one.

March 5 — How did they meet? You’ve documented marriages, now, go back a bit. Do you know the story of how your parents met? Your grandparents?

March 6 — Describe an heirloom you may have inherited from a female ancestor (wedding ring or other jewelry, china, clothing, etc.) If you don’t have any, then write about a specific object you remember from your mother or grandmother, or aunt (a scarf, a hat, cooking utensil, furniture, etc.)

March 7 — Share a favorite recipe from your mother or grandmother’s kitchen. Why is this dish your favorite? If you don’t have one that’s been passed down, describe a favorite holiday or other meal you shared with your family.

March 8 — Did one of your female ancestors leave a diary, journal, or collection of letters? Share an entry or excerpt.

March 9 — Take a family document (baptismal certificate, passenger list, naturalization petition, etc.) and write a brief narrative using the information.

March 10 — What role did religion play in your family? How did your female ancestors practice their faith? If they did not, why didn’t they? Did you have any female ancestors who served their churches in some capacity?

March 11 — Did you have any female ancestors who died young or from tragic or unexpected circumstances? Describe and how did this affect the family?

March 12 — Working girl: Did your mother or grandmother work outside the home? What did she do? Describe her occupation.

March 13 — Moment of Strength: share a story where a female ancestor showed courage or strength in a difficult situation.

March 14 — Newsmakers? Did you have a female ancestor who made the news? Why? Was she famous or notorious? Did she appear in the social column?

March 15 — Write a six-word memoir tribute to one of your female ancestors.

March 16 — If you could have lunch with any female family member (living or dead) or any famous female who would it be and why? Where would you go? What would you eat?

March 17 — Social Butterfly? What social organizations or groups did your mother or grandmother belong to? Sewing circle, church group, fraternal benefit society or lodge? Describe her role in the group.

March 18 — Shining star: Did you have a female ancestor who had a special talent? Artist, singer, actress, athlete, seamstress, or other? Describe.

March 19 — Have you discovered a surprising fact about one of your female ancestors? What was it and how did you learn it? How did you feel when you found out?

March 20 — Is there a female ancestor who is your brick wall? Why? List possible sources for finding more information.

March 21 — Describe a tender moment one of your female ancestors shared with you or another family member.

March 22 — If a famous director wanted to make a movie about one of your female ancestors who would it be? What actress would you cast in the role and why?

March 23 — Create a timeline for a female ancestor using your favorite software program or online timeline tools. Post an image of it or link to it.

March 24 — Do you share any physical resemblance or personality trait with one of your female ancestors? Who? What is it?

March 25 — Tell how a female ancestor interacted with her children. Was she loving or supportive? A disciplinarian? A bit of both?

March 26 — What education did your mother receive? Your grandmothers? Great-grandmothers? Note any advanced degrees or special achievements.

March 27 — Do you know the immigration story of one or more female ancestors? Do you have any passenger lists, passports, or other documentation? Interesting family stories?

March 28 — Do you remember your mother’s best friend? Your grandmother’s? How and where did they meet? How long were they friends? What activities did they share?

March 29 — [Updated] Create a tribute page or video for a female ancestor. Some sites to try include MyHeritage LiveMemory™ and FamilySearch Memories. If your feeling a bit more ambitious. consider investing in the Vivid-Pix® Memory Station [afflilate link], a one-stop solution to help you scan, restore, store, and share your memories. Learn more here.

[Original Prompt:  Create a free Fold3 Memorial Page or a Genealogy Trading Card at Big Huge Labs for a female ancestor. Some of you may have created your own card back in September 2009 following Sheri Fenley’s post over at The Educated Genealogist. This time, the card is for your female ancestor. Tell us about who you’ve selected and why and then post a link to what you’ve created.]

March 30 — Did you receive any advice or words of wisdom from your mother or another female ancestor?

March 31 — Pick one female ancestor and write a mini-profile (500 words or less).

BONUS: Take all of your postings and turn them into a memory or tribute booklet for future generations.

Post an entry on your Blog when you have created your tribute. Tell us how you did it (what format, how you printed it or digitized it, etc.).

Like these prompts? Consider purchasing a copy of the Fearless Females: 31 Writing Prompts to Celebrate Women’s History E-book, which contains all 31 prompts plus bonus prompts and resources. Click here for more informatioin.

Copyright, 2026, Lisa A. Alzo

All Rights Reserved

Goodbye 2025: My Year in Review

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Well, it’s time to say goodbye to 2025 and welcome in 2026. Here is a brief recap of some of the activiities and experiences since my last “year in review” post.

New Year 2026

During any given year, there are always highs and lows, happy and sad times, and memories that will be reflected upon in the future.

I am grateful for all of the professional opportunities that came my way in 2025.  I continued to write articles for Reunions Magazine and Family Tree Magazine. I presented webinars for libraries, a number of genealogy societies (including the virtual conference hosted by my friends from the Polish Genealogical Society of Connecticut and the Northeast, and for Legacy Family tree Webinars/MyHeritage. I taught two immersive courses for Family Tree University and courses for OASIS Syracuse. I was also invited to give four presentations (in-person) in October for The Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International in Overland Park, KS.

I enjoyed spending time with family in Pittsburgh (at Easter, a graduation party for a cousin in May, and the annual family reunion (Mom’s side) in July. I had an opporunity to meet up with some friends during the summmer too and at the CGSI conference in the fall.

In 2025 I experienced some difficult moments. In Sepetmber, I lost a co-worker who unexpectedly passed away and I learned about other friends who were experiencing serious health issues. Such events always seem to serve as “wake-up” calls to cherish each day, to be grateful for what I have, and to give thanks for times spent with loved ones and friends. In times of trial, I often look back at my ancestors and draw inspiration and strength from how they dealt with adversity in their own lives. This is one of the reasons that after 30+ years, I still enjoy being a genealogist. 

Last Year’s Word

In 2025 I chose REALIGN. I chose that word because I wanted to change and shift my priorities both personally and professionally. For the most part, I was successful in making small changes to improve my health and to focus on work that fulfilled me.

My “Word” for 2026

For 2026, I haved selected the word CALM. With so much chaos in the world and because of the stressful events during last year, I feel that staying calm is going to be a priorty for me in the coming year. I will set small personal and professional goals each week that I know I can realistically accomplish.

So now I say “bye-bye” to 2025,  I would like to extend a special thank you to my readers for your continued support. I wish you health, happiness, and peace in 2026!

Celebrating 15 Years of Fearless Females Blogging Prompts

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Welcome!

Get a Jumpstart on Your Blogging for Women’s History Month

In March 2010, I launched a series of 31 blogging prompts for celebrating and honoring the “fearless females” in our family trees. Many bloggers participated and I was asked if I planned on running them again. I’m happy to say that this series is still going strong and is back for a millestone 15th year.

Fearless Females Badge 2025
Badge graphic courtesy of Denise Levenick; edits by Lisa Alzo

So, to mark National Women’s History Month, I’m listing the 31 prompts below.

Also, you can download the free badge above to use on your blog to indicate your participation. [A special thanks to my friend and colleague, Denise Levenick, The Family Curator, who created the original version of this badge especially for me for the 2016 edition of Fearless Females].

It is a perfect time to start writing about your female ancestors.

[Group of young women reading in library of normal school, Washington, D.C.]Library of Congress, (Johnston, Frances Benjamin, 1864-1952, photographer.); REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-USZ62-100288 (b&w film copy neg.) DIGITAL ID: (b&w film copy neg.) cph 3c00288 http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3c00288]

Prompts

Fearless Females: 31 Blogging Prompts to Celebrate Women’s History Month

You can choose to do some of the prompts, or all of them–there’s no pressure–it’s meant to be a fun exercise to focus on the women and make sure their stories are told!

March 1 — Do you have a favorite female ancestor? One you are drawn to or want to learn more about? Write down some key facts you have already learned or what you would like to learn and outline your goals and potential sources you plan to check.

March 2 — Post a photo of one of your female ancestors. Who is in the photo? When was it taken? Why did you select this photo?

March 3 — Do you share a first name with one of your female ancestors? Perhaps you were named for your great-grandmother, or your name follows a particular naming pattern. If not, then list the most unique or unusual female first name you’ve come across in your family tree.

March 4 — Do you have marriage records for your grandparents or great-grandparents? Write a post about where they were married and when. Any family stories about the wedding day? Post a photo too if you have one.

March 5 — How did they meet? You’ve documented marriages, now, go back a bit. Do you know the story of how your parents met? Your grandparents?

March 6 — Describe an heirloom you may have inherited from a female ancestor (wedding ring or other jewelry, china, clothing, etc.) If you don’t have any, then write about a specific object you remember from your mother or grandmother, or aunt (a scarf, a hat, cooking utensil, furniture, etc.)

March 7 — Share a favorite recipe from your mother or grandmother’s kitchen. Why is this dish your favorite? If you don’t have one that’s been passed down, describe a favorite holiday or other meal you shared with your family.

March 8 — Did one of your female ancestors leave a diary, journal, or collection of letters? Share an entry or excerpt.

March 9 — Take a family document (baptismal certificate, passenger list, naturalization petition, etc.) and write a brief narrative using the information.

March 10 — What role did religion play in your family? How did your female ancestors practice their faith? If they did not, why didn’t they? Did you have any female ancestors who served their churches in some capacity?

March 11 — Did you have any female ancestors who died young or from tragic or unexpected circumstances? Describe and how did this affect the family?

March 12 — Working girl: Did your mother or grandmother work outside the home? What did she do? Describe her occupation.

March 13 — Moment of Strength: share a story where a female ancestor showed courage or strength in a difficult situation.

March 14 — Newsmakers? Did you have a female ancestor who made the news? Why? Was she famous or notorious? Did she appear in the social column?

March 15 — Write a six-word memoir tribute to one of your female ancestors.

March 16 — If you could have lunch with any female family member (living or dead) or any famous female who would it be and why? Where would you go? What would you eat?

March 17 — Social Butterfly? What social organizations or groups did your mother or grandmother belong to? Sewing circle, church group, fraternal benefit society or lodge? Describe her role in the group.

March 18 — Shining star: Did you have a female ancestor who had a special talent? Artist, singer, actress, athlete, seamstress, or other? Describe.

March 19 — Have you discovered a surprising fact about one of your female ancestors? What was it and how did you learn it? How did you feel when you found out?

March 20 — Is there a female ancestor who is your brick wall? Why? List possible sources for finding more information.

March 21 — Describe a tender moment one of your female ancestors shared with you or another family member.

March 22 — If a famous director wanted to make a movie about one of your female ancestors who would it be? What actress would you cast in the role and why?

March 23 — Create a timeline for a female ancestor using your favorite software program or an online timeline generator such as OurTimelines. Post an image of it or link to it.

March 24 — Do you share any physical resemblance or personality trait with one of your female ancestors? Who? What is it?

March 25 — Tell how a female ancestor interacted with her children. Was she loving or supportive? A disciplinarian? A bit of both?

March 26 — What education did your mother receive? Your grandmothers? Great-grandmothers? Note any advanced degrees or special achievements.

March 27 — Do you know the immigration story of one or more female ancestors? Do you have any passenger lists, passports, or other documentation? Interesting family stories?

March 28 — Do you remember your mother’s best friend? Your grandmother’s? How and where did they meet? How long were they friends? What activities did they share?

March 29 — Create a free Fold3 Memorial Page or a Genealogy Trading Card at Big Huge Labs for a female ancestor. Some of you may have created your own card back in September 2009 following Sheri Fenley’s post over at The Educated Genealogist. This time, the card is for your female ancestor. Tell us about who you’ve selected and why and then post a link to what you’ve created.

March 30 — Did you receive any advice or words of wisdom from your mother or another female ancestor?

March 31 — Pick one female ancestor and write a mini-profile (500 words or less).

BONUS: Take all of your postings and turn them into a memory or tribute booklet for future generations.

Post an entry on your Blog when you have created your tribute. Tell us how you did it (what format, how you printed it or digitized it, etc.).

Copyright, 2025, Lisa A. Alzo

All Rights Reserved

So Long 2024: My Year in Review

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Where did 2024 go?  It seems like yesterday that I sat down to write my Farewell 2023 post and now here I am again ready to say so long to 2024.

Happy New Year 2025

By all accounts, 2024 was a good year. I continued writing articles for Family Tree Magazine and Reunions Magazine. I also moderated classes for Family Tree University, ran four virtual meetings on Eastern European Research for the International Institute of Genealogical Studies, and presented webinars for Legacy Family Tree /MyHeritage.com Webinars. I also taught two sessions as part of the “Bring ‘Em Back to Life: Writing Our Ancestors’ Stories” course for the Spring 2024 Virtual offering of SLIG (Salt Lake Insitute of Genealogy), and a virtual session on “Reviving Memories: The Joy of Photo Reunions” as part of the  Imaging–It’s Past, Present, and Future course with the GRIP Genealogy Research Institute June 2024.  I also wish to thank the many libraries, societies, and organizations (too many to name indivivually) for the opporrunity to present on topics such as using Artificial Intelligence(AI) for Genealogy, Eastern European Research, and Creative Nonfiction Writing for Genealogists (and many more).

The highlight of the year for me was the invitation to give a talk on Slovak Immigration for the  Thomas Kukucka Memorial Lecture on Sunday, 25 March 2024 at the University of Pittsburgh (my alma mater). I was touched to have so many family members and friends there to hear my presentation.

My “Word” for 2025

For 2024, I selected the word DETERMINED. I stated I was determined to 1. Write more; 2. Stress less; and 3. Declutter and organiize. I think I did pretty well in all three areas. and hope to continue to do so in the coming year.

It was challenging to decide on a word for 2025 that will set the tone for me for the next 12 months. After much thought, I chose REALIGN.

The definition of “realign” according to Dictionary.com is:

  1. “change or put back to a new or former place or position.”
  2. “change one’s position or attitude with regard to (a person, organization, or cause).”

The main reason I chose this word is because I want to realign my priorities both personally and professionally. Primarily, I desiere to create a healthier work/life balance. This means giving up some activities or work in order to make room for new projects, experiences, rest, and fun. I also plan to get back to my creative nonfiction writing roots. I have so many ideas  that I never had time to explore in recent years. I look forward to putting my fingers to the keyboard very soon to finish a creative nonfiction book that is long overdue for publication and start some new projects.

As always, I would like to extend a special thank you to my readers for your continued support

I wish you health, happiness, and peace in 2025!

 

 

Fearless Females Blogging Prompts Back for 2024

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Welcome!

Get a Jumpstart on Your Blogging for Women’s History Month

In March 2010, I launched a series of 31 blogging prompts for celebrating and honoring the “fearless females” in our family trees. Many bloggers participated and I was asked if I planned on running them again. I’m happy to say that this series is still going strong and is back for a 13th year.

Badge graphic courtesy of Denise Levenick; edits by Lisa Alzo

So, to mark National Women’s History Month, I’m listing the 31 prompts below.

Also, you can download the free badge above to use on your blog to indicate your participation. [A special thanks to my friend and colleague, Denise Levenick, The Family Curator, who created the original version of this badge especially for me for the 2016 edition of Fearless Females].

It is a perfect time to start writing about your female ancestors.

[Group of young women reading in library of normal school, Washington, D.C.]Library of Congress, (Johnston, Frances Benjamin, 1864-1952, photographer.); REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-USZ62-100288 (b&w film copy neg.) DIGITAL ID: (b&w film copy neg.) cph 3c00288 http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3c00288]

Prompts

Fearless Females: 31 Blogging Prompts to Celebrate Women’s History Month

You can choose to do some of the prompts, or all of them–there’s no pressure–it’s meant to be a fun exercise to focus on the women and make sure their stories are told!

March 1 — Do you have a favorite female ancestor? One you are drawn to or want to learn more about? Write down some key facts you have already learned or what you would like to learn and outline your goals and potential sources you plan to check.

March 2 — Post a photo of one of your female ancestors. Who is in the photo? When was it taken? Why did you select this photo?

March 3 — Do you share a first name with one of your female ancestors? Perhaps you were named for your great-grandmother, or your name follows a particular naming pattern. If not, then list the most unique or unusual female first name you’ve come across in your family tree.

March 4 — Do you have marriage records for your grandparents or great-grandparents? Write a post about where they were married and when. Any family stories about the wedding day? Post a photo too if you have one.

March 5 — How did they meet? You’ve documented marriages, now, go back a bit. Do you know the story of how your parents met? Your grandparents?

March 6 — Describe an heirloom you may have inherited from a female ancestor (wedding ring or other jewelry, china, clothing, etc.) If you don’t have any, then write about a specific object you remember from your mother or grandmother, or aunt (a scarf, a hat, cooking utensil, furniture, etc.)

March 7 — Share a favorite recipe from your mother or grandmother’s kitchen. Why is this dish your favorite? If you don’t have one that’s been passed down, describe a favorite holiday or other meal you shared with your family.

March 8 — Did one of your female ancestors leave a diary, journal, or collection of letters? Share an entry or excerpt.

March 9 — Take a family document (baptismal certificate, passenger list, naturalization petition, etc.) and write a brief narrative using the information.

March 10 — What role did religion play in your family? How did your female ancestors practice their faith? If they did not, why didn’t they? Did you have any female ancestors who served their churches in some capacity?

March 11 — Did you have any female ancestors who died young or from tragic or unexpected circumstances? Describe and how did this affect the family?

March 12 — Working girl: Did your mother or grandmother work outside the home? What did she do? Describe her occupation.

March 13 — Moment of Strength: share a story where a female ancestor showed courage or strength in a difficult situation.

March 14 — Newsmakers? Did you have a female ancestor who made the news? Why? Was she famous or notorious? Did she appear in the social column?

March 15 — Write a six-word memoir tribute to one of your female ancestors.

March 16 — If you could have lunch with any female family member (living or dead) or any famous female who would it be and why? Where would you go? What would you eat?

March 17 — Social Butterfly? What social organizations or groups did your mother or grandmother belong to? Sewing circle, church group, fraternal benefit society or lodge? Describe her role in the group.

March 18 — Shining star: Did you have a female ancestor who had a special talent? Artist, singer, actress, athlete, seamstress, or other? Describe.

March 19 — Have you discovered a surprising fact about one of your female ancestors? What was it and how did you learn it? How did you feel when you found out?

March 20 — Is there a female ancestor who is your brick wall? Why? List possible sources for finding more information.

March 21 — Describe a tender moment one of your female ancestors shared with you or another family member.

March 22 — If a famous director wanted to make a movie about one of your female ancestors who would it be? What actress would you cast in the role and why?

March 23 — Create a timeline for a female ancestor using your favorite software program or an online timeline generator such as OurTimelines. Post an image of it or link to it.

March 24 — Do you share any physical resemblance or personality trait with one of your female ancestors? Who? What is it?

March 25 — Tell how a female ancestor interacted with her children. Was she loving or supportive? A disciplinarian? A bit of both?

March 26 — What education did your mother receive? Your grandmothers? Great-grandmothers? Note any advanced degrees or special achievements.

March 27 — Do you know the immigration story of one or more female ancestors? Do you have any passenger lists, passports, or other documentation? Interesting family stories?

March 28 — Do you remember your mother’s best friend? Your grandmother’s? How and where did they meet? How long were they friends? What activities did they share?

March 29 — Create a free Fold3 Memorial Page or a Genealogy Trading Card at Big Huge Labs for a female ancestor. Some of you may have created your own card back in September 2009 following Sheri Fenley’s post over at The Educated Genealogist. This time, the card is for your female ancestor. Tell us about who you’ve selected and why and then post a link to what you’ve created.

March 30 — Did you receive any advice or words of wisdom from your mother or another female ancestor?

March 31 — Pick one female ancestor and write a mini-profile (500 words or less).

BONUS: Take all of your postings and turn them into a memory or tribute booklet for future generations.

Post an entry on your Blog when you have created your tribute. Tell us how you did it (what format, how you printed it or digitized it, etc.).

Copyright, 2024, Lisa A. Alzo

All Rights Reserved

Farewell to 2023: My Year in Review

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2024 Happy New Year

As I prepare to say farewell to 2023, I find myself at somewhat of a crossroads both personally and professionally. This past year went by quickly as there always seemed to be something to do, or deadlines to meet. There was also a fair amount unexpected closure due to dealing with the deaths of two important people in my life: my aunt/godmother in October, and a dear college friend, two months prior (in August 2023). Professional closure came as well as I decided to shut down my online course website, Research, Write, Connect, and then just a few months ago I learned that Internet Genealogy Magazine was going to cease publication (I was a regular contributor for more than 15 years and I will miss working with them).

But 2023 had many bright spots as well. I continued writing articles for Family Tree Magazine and became a regular contributor for Reunions Magazine. I also moderated classes for Family Tree Univesity and presented webinars for Legacy Family Tree Webinars (my September 2023 webinar on “50 Family History Writing Tips in 50 Minutes” made their Top 10 list for October). I also presented webinars for a host of genealogical societies (I enjoy giving virtual presentations) and delivered 5 in-person lectures for The Czechoslovak Genealogical Soceity International Conferene in Milwaukee, Wisonsin in October 2023.

When I looked back to see what my post was last year on December 31st I was surprised to realize that I had not written one!  I don’t remember why but there must have been a good reason.  At any rate, in previous years I had summarized key things that I accomplished in my genealogy research and as a writer and lecturer. I also started choosing a word for the coming year. In my “Farewell 2021: My Year in Review” post, I chose the word RESET as my word for 2022. It was a fitting choice as I implemented changes in my daily routine and my work.

Since I didn’t choose a word for 2023, I need to start again with choosing a word for the coming year.  For 2024, I have seleted the word DETERMINED.

The definition of “determined” according to Dictionary.com is:

  1. adjective
    resolute; staunch:
  2. decided; settled; resolved.

I like this word because it sums up my attitude moving into this new year.

So, in 2024, I am determined to:

1. Write more. I have made good, steady progress on a creative nonfiction book that is long overdue for publication. And I have several other ideas for other writing projects that I need to start working on, including sharing more stories about my ancestors Stay tuned for updates.

2. Stress less. I need to have more of a work-life balance. I work all the time and I want to try to work smarter, not harder in 2024 so I can spend more time with my husband, and plan more in-person visits with family and friends. I will also schedule time for myself to rest and relax.

3. Declutter and organize. Four years ago I parted with a lot of possesions due to downsizing and the sale of our house. But i still have A LOT of stuff! Since space is at a premium (and I want to be ready for our next move wheneve the time comes(. I plan to actively start a routine of sorting through documents, photographs, and other possessions and only keep what I feel is most important and meaningful. It is an ongoing process.

I am looking forward to 2024. I can’t wait to see what’s ahead.

As always, I would like to extend a special thank you to my readers for your continued support

I wish you health, happiness, and peace.

 

Copyright 2023, Lisa A. Alzo, All Rights Reserved

Last Day for Early Bird Registration for 2023 CGSI Conference

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Early-bird registration ends August 15th for the 2023 CGSI Genealogical & Cultural Conference. The conference will be held October 17-21, 2023, at The Ingleside Hotel outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Registration prices will increase after August 15th. Register today to join the hundreds of others who have already registered.

A CGSI conference is a great place to learn, share, and connect with the genealogy, history, and culture of those from the Czech and Slovak ancestral lands of Central Europe. The format allows you to connect with information, resources, and other attendees via presentations and workshops, tours, networking opportunities, films, and social events.

I will be presenting five sessions at this conference. Hope to see you there!

Program and Registration Booklet

Complete conference details are available on CGSI.org and also the Program and Registration Booklet, which you can download by clicking here.

We encourage you to review the conference details to fully understand the workshop, tour, and dinner options before completing your registration.

Please visit the CGSI website to view the most current information on presentations and workshops and tours.
 

Online Pre-Conference Platform

Beginning on September 16th conference attendees will have access to Whova, an online platform to connect, discuss topics, organize virtual meet-ups, and more.

All conference registrations automatically include access to this online platform, but access is available if you are unable to attend the conference in-person.

Even if you are not attending the in-person conference in Milwaukee, for just $25 you can purchase access to just the pre-conference platform.

Copyright 2023, Lisa A. Alzo and CGSI. All Rights Reserved.

2023 Polish Genealogy Conference Online – Zoom

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Below is an announement from the Polish Genealogical Society of Connecticut and the Northeast about their 2023 Polish Genealogy Conference which will be held virtually via Zoom on October 21, 22, and 28, 2023.

I will be a presenter at this conference. My session, “Diseases, Disasters, Distress: Bad for Your Ancestors, Good for Genealogy!” will be on Saturday, October 28th from 12:45 – 2:00 p.m.

If you have Polish roots, you won’t want to miss this event!

2023 Polish Genealogy Conference Online – Zoom

Sponsored by

The Polish Genealogical Society of Connecticut and the Northeast, Inc.

and

The S. A. Blejwas Endowed Chair of the Polish and Polish American Studies
Central Connecticut State University

Conference Details


The conference provides an opportunity to learn strategies for tracing your Polish-American and Eastern European roots. The speakers are well known in Polish genealogy circles and their discussions will enable attendees to fill in the missing pieces of their family history. Speakers have extensive experience in their respective fields and have been featured at numerous regional, national and international conferences.

The Conference will be held on October 20, 21 and 28. The conference will be held online using Zoom.

Attendees can be from anywhere in the world!!

For more conference information and registration form, please click this link.
Every attendee will be entered into the prize drawing which will be held on October 28.

Cost – Members – $25
Non-Members – $40

If you are NOT a member of the PGSCTNE and would like to pay the discounted members price, please join here. Joining the society will give you many advantages including our webinars, bulletins and society newsletters.

After signing up, you will be sent a link, for each day of the conference, prior to the event. All
lectures will be given in English.

For further information, please email Diane Szepanski and Lauren Siembab, Conference Chairs, at conferencepgsctne@yahoo.com.

Copyright 2023, Lisa A. Alzo and The Polish Genealogical Society of Connecticut and the Northeast. All Rights Reserved.

Fearless Females Blogging Prompts Series Back for 2023

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Welcome!

In March 2010, I launched a series of 31 blogging prompts for celebrating and honoring the “fearless females” in our family trees. Many bloggers participated and I was asked if I planned on running them again. I’m happy to say that this series is still going strong and is back for a 13th year.

Badge graphic courtesy of Denise Levenick; edits by Lisa Alzo

So, to mark National Women’s History Month, I’m listing the 31 prompts below.

Also, you can download the free badge above to use on your blog to indicate your participation. [A special thanks to my friend and colleague, Denise Levenick, The Family Curator, who created the original version of this badge especially for me for the 2016 edition of Fearless Females].

It is a perfect time to start writing about your female ancestors.

[Group of young women reading in library of normal school, Washington, D.C.]Library of Congress, (Johnston, Frances Benjamin, 1864-1952, photographer.); REPRODUCTION NUMBER: LC-USZ62-100288 (b&w film copy neg.) DIGITAL ID: (b&w film copy neg.) cph 3c00288 http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3c00288]

Prompts

Fearless Females: 31 Blogging Prompts to Celebrate Women’s History Month

You can choose to do some of the prompts, or all of them–there’s no pressure–it’s meant to be a fun exercise to focus on the women and make sure their stories are told!

March 1 — Do you have a favorite female ancestor? One you are drawn to or want to learn more about? Write down some key facts you have already learned or what you would like to learn and outline your goals and potential sources you plan to check.

March 2 — Post a photo of one of your female ancestors. Who is in the photo? When was it taken? Why did you select this photo?

March 3 — Do you share a first name with one of your female ancestors? Perhaps you were named for your great-grandmother, or your name follows a particular naming pattern. If not, then list the most unique or unusual female first name you’ve come across in your family tree.

March 4 — Do you have marriage records for your grandparents or great-grandparents? Write a post about where they were married and when. Any family stories about the wedding day? Post a photo too if you have one.

March 5 — How did they meet? You’ve documented marriages, now, go back a bit. Do you know the story of how your parents met? Your grandparents?

March 6 — Describe an heirloom you may have inherited from a female ancestor (wedding ring or other jewelry, china, clothing, etc.) If you don’t have any, then write about a specific object you remember from your mother or grandmother, or aunt (a scarf, a hat, cooking utensil, furniture, etc.)

March 7 — Share a favorite recipe from your mother or grandmother’s kitchen. Why is this dish your favorite? If you don’t have one that’s been passed down, describe a favorite holiday or other meal you shared with your family.

March 8 — Did one of your female ancestors leave a diary, journal, or collection of letters? Share an entry or excerpt.

March 9 — Take a family document (baptismal certificate, passenger list, naturalization petition, etc.) and write a brief narrative using the information.

March 10 — What role did religion play in your family? How did your female ancestors practice their faith? If they did not, why didn’t they? Did you have any female ancestors who served their churches in some capacity?

March 11 — Did you have any female ancestors who died young or from tragic or unexpected circumstances? Describe and how did this affect the family?

March 12 — Working girl: Did your mother or grandmother work outside the home? What did she do? Describe her occupation.

March 13 — Moment of Strength: share a story where a female ancestor showed courage or strength in a difficult situation.

March 14 — Newsmakers? Did you have a female ancestor who made the news? Why? Was she famous or notorious? Did she appear in the social column?

March 15 — Write a six-word memoir tribute to one of your female ancestors.

March 16 — If you could have lunch with any female family member (living or dead) or any famous female who would it be and why? Where would you go? What would you eat?

March 17 — Social Butterfly? What social organizations or groups did your mother or grandmother belong to? Sewing circle, church group, fraternal benefit society or lodge? Describe her role in the group.

March 18 — Shining star: Did you have a female ancestor who had a special talent? Artist, singer, actress, athlete, seamstress, or other? Describe.

March 19 — Have you discovered a surprising fact about one of your female ancestors? What was it and how did you learn it? How did you feel when you found out?

March 20 — Is there a female ancestor who is your brick wall? Why? List possible sources for finding more information.

March 21 — Describe a tender moment one of your female ancestors shared with you or another family member.

March 22 — If a famous director wanted to make a movie about one of your female ancestors who would it be? What actress would you cast in the role and why?

March 23 — Create a timeline for a female ancestor using your favorite software program or an online timeline generator such as OurTimelines. Post an image of it or link to it.

March 24 — Do you share any physical resemblance or personality trait with one of your female ancestors? Who? What is it?

March 25 — Tell how a female ancestor interacted with her children. Was she loving or supportive? A disciplinarian? A bit of both?

March 26 — What education did your mother receive? Your grandmothers? Great-grandmothers? Note any advanced degrees or special achievements.

March 27 — Do you know the immigration story of one or more female ancestors? Do you have any passenger lists, passports, or other documentation? Interesting family stories?

March 28 — Do you remember your mother’s best friend? Your grandmother’s? How and where did they meet? How long were they friends? What activities did they share?

March 29 — Create a free Fold3 Memorial Page or a Genealogy Trading Card at Big Huge Labs for a female ancestor. Some of you may have created your own card back in September 2009 following Sheri Fenley’s post over at The Educated Genealogist. This time, the card is for your female ancestor. Tell us about who you’ve selected and why and then post a link to what you’ve created.

March 30 — Did you receive any advice or words of wisdom from your mother or another female ancestor?

March 31 — Pick one female ancestor and write a mini-profile (500 words or less).

BONUS: Take all of your postings and turn them into a memory or tribute booklet for future generations.

Post an entry on your Blog when you have created your tribute. Tell us how you did it (what format, how you printed it or digitized it, etc.).

Also during the month of March you can save 30% off the Finding Your Female Ancestors course on my online education website, Research Write Connect (regularly priced at $99; now $69.30 with discount). Click here to register and use coupon code FEARLESS2023 to claim your discount through 31 March 2023. The course is self-paced with no start or end date so you can purchase at the discounted price and start the course whenever you choose.

Copyright, 2023, Lisa A. Alzo

All Rights Reserved