My lifelong passion for family history began at age 16, when I was asked to compile a family directory for an upcoming reunion. What began as a simple project quickly became a calling. Realizing how little was known about my family, I set out to connect with relatives by phone and mail, gathering not only dates and vital details but also the stories that brought my heritage to life. I was hooked! In 2005, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Social Studies Composite from the University of Texas at Tyler, intending to teach history at the middle and high school levels. Though my career path took a different direction, I never lost my enthusiasm for history or genealogy. Over the past 27 years, I have expanded my family tree to include more than 19,000 individuals. My extensive research and background in history enable me to inspire others who share my curiosity about the past.