Ah, yes, the Norwegians! I'm married to an old descendant. Since he is of a calm and good nature, we think his were the ancestors who stayed home in Norway, quietly keeping the home fires burning while the more rambunctious ones went a'viking, as they say.
Well, sure. Somebody had to stay home and run the farm - plant the crops, tend the goats, salt the fish, dry the reindeer meat. They couldn't all have gone to sea.
Lovely prose, Sharron. Perhaps your viking DNA is what has inspired your adventurous travels over the years. In any event, we love our little "least of all warriors."
Just lovely, Sharron. And how extraordinary that you're able to trace your heritage back so far! And, no, I do not believe your ancestors would be "disappointed to learn that their DNA now flowers" in you, nor would they view you as "the least of all warriors." I believe you're a tremendous warrior and that they would be proud to know their incredible descendant. Hugs!
For most of my ancestral lines, the records ran out by 1700s. But one direct line was traceable to the 9th century because they were nobles. Good records survive when it comes to aristocracy. I was thrilled. Genealogy is a lot of work...
I almost commented on your other heritage piece last night because your “gather” poem reminded me of it! Both works are stellar. What a great way to pay homage to your ancestors. Thanks as always for the mention!
For most of my ancestral lines, the records ran out by 1700s. But one direct line was traceable to the 9th century because they were nobles. Good records survive when it comes to aristocracy. I was thrilled to trace it all the way back and watch it unfold.
You are so sweet to say so, Janice. I never personally knew ANY of my Norwegians. Not even my father. I am sorry for it. I do have a handful of first cousins scattered about the country, but we will no doubt never meet. We are all too old...
I spent a few hours in Oslo’s airport on the way to Copenhagen. I wish I’d been able to go out and explore the country. It had been a long horrible flight with problems piled upon problems and it wasn’t over yet. The people there were so friendly and helpful in a Norwegian sort of way. Which means they sorted everything out for me in a matter of a few minutes, got me a connecting flight free of charge and sent me on my way with out ever smiling or engaging in any unnecessary conversation. I love Norwegians!
Yep. That sounds exactly right to me. Stereotypically speaking, Norwegians seem to be a wonderful mix of reserve and generosity of spirit. No nonsense, but willing to assist. Thanks!
Thanks, Rebecca. I am just feeling a little isolated this week and need to remind myself that I come from a long line of stalwarts. You know how it is sometimes. ( However, my new tribe, the Substack tribe, has become such a joy, too.)
About 30 some years ago, a new relative did the research and made a family tree book. It barely made it long enough to include my daughter. Its a good 1 1/2 inches thick. She and her dad were thrilled. I knew only a couple of uncles by name. No one from my side. Ah well. She has the book now. I have photos of my Mom, Gram and Great Gram. Then there's me and my daughter and two grand kids. Nice to be in the middle. )) All of us lacemakers, except I don't know about GG, but she must have taught Gram, so I'll add her to the thread line. 6 generations is a good long time. If there are GGkids while I'm still here there WILL be 7 generations of lacemakers )))). That's enough to keep it going eh?))
Surely those who came before us in our bloodline have some effect on our spirits. We are all adventurers in our own way.
Yes, I think so too They give us something to live up to.
Ah, yes, the Norwegians! I'm married to an old descendant. Since he is of a calm and good nature, we think his were the ancestors who stayed home in Norway, quietly keeping the home fires burning while the more rambunctious ones went a'viking, as they say.
Well, sure. Somebody had to stay home and run the farm - plant the crops, tend the goats, salt the fish, dry the reindeer meat. They couldn't all have gone to sea.
Lovely prose, Sharron. Perhaps your viking DNA is what has inspired your adventurous travels over the years. In any event, we love our little "least of all warriors."
I had never thought of that, Jim. I believe you are right. Thanks
Cool roots and heritage, Sharron. I doubt they would be disappointed!
I guess there are all kinds of bravery, all kinds of ways to be strong.
Just lovely, Sharron. And how extraordinary that you're able to trace your heritage back so far! And, no, I do not believe your ancestors would be "disappointed to learn that their DNA now flowers" in you, nor would they view you as "the least of all warriors." I believe you're a tremendous warrior and that they would be proud to know their incredible descendant. Hugs!
For most of my ancestral lines, the records ran out by 1700s. But one direct line was traceable to the 9th century because they were nobles. Good records survive when it comes to aristocracy. I was thrilled. Genealogy is a lot of work...
Both versions are lovely, Sharron.
And warriors don't always wield swords...sometimes it's a pen. You brandish that mightily!
Aww. Thank you for reminding me of this perspective, Heather. You made my day!
I almost commented on your other heritage piece last night because your “gather” poem reminded me of it! Both works are stellar. What a great way to pay homage to your ancestors. Thanks as always for the mention!
I love being a part of Fifties by the Fire. They just get better and better. It must take you hours, though, to respond to comments.
They really do! It isn’t so bad. Thankfully the stories don’t take all that long to read!
850 is dang near Pre-Adam-ite )))K
For most of my ancestral lines, the records ran out by 1700s. But one direct line was traceable to the 9th century because they were nobles. Good records survive when it comes to aristocracy. I was thrilled to trace it all the way back and watch it unfold.
Hi Sharron, As others have said, I certainly believe your ancestors would be very proud of you and the work you do.
You are so sweet to say so, Janice. I never personally knew ANY of my Norwegians. Not even my father. I am sorry for it. I do have a handful of first cousins scattered about the country, but we will no doubt never meet. We are all too old...
I spent a few hours in Oslo’s airport on the way to Copenhagen. I wish I’d been able to go out and explore the country. It had been a long horrible flight with problems piled upon problems and it wasn’t over yet. The people there were so friendly and helpful in a Norwegian sort of way. Which means they sorted everything out for me in a matter of a few minutes, got me a connecting flight free of charge and sent me on my way with out ever smiling or engaging in any unnecessary conversation. I love Norwegians!
Yep. That sounds exactly right to me. Stereotypically speaking, Norwegians seem to be a wonderful mix of reserve and generosity of spirit. No nonsense, but willing to assist. Thanks!
I love them both, Sharron. 😊😊
Thanks, Rebecca. I am just feeling a little isolated this week and need to remind myself that I come from a long line of stalwarts. You know how it is sometimes. ( However, my new tribe, the Substack tribe, has become such a joy, too.)
Sorry to hear you're feeling isolated, Sharron - I'm so glad though to be part of your tribe. We're all in this together! 😊
About 30 some years ago, a new relative did the research and made a family tree book. It barely made it long enough to include my daughter. Its a good 1 1/2 inches thick. She and her dad were thrilled. I knew only a couple of uncles by name. No one from my side. Ah well. She has the book now. I have photos of my Mom, Gram and Great Gram. Then there's me and my daughter and two grand kids. Nice to be in the middle. )) All of us lacemakers, except I don't know about GG, but she must have taught Gram, so I'll add her to the thread line. 6 generations is a good long time. If there are GGkids while I'm still here there WILL be 7 generations of lacemakers )))). That's enough to keep it going eh?))
Wow! Everyone did their part. What a great story!
Power in ancestry! Power in 50 words!
Yow! Thanks!
It's good to know about one's roots, one must not forget.