If you like to do research and spend hours in a library chasing faint trails you might like doing geneaology. You will surprised how many friends you can make online and in real life. I have found it helpful to always carry a pen and a notebook. Another good thing to know is how to use the libraries inter-library loan and the copier machine.

The LDS church runs a bunch of Family History Centers that specialize in genealogical research. They have a wealth of info, and a ton of copies of old records that you can use

I have just recently became of the Sorensen Project. The Sorenson Database is the foremost collection of genetic genealogy data in the world. Search by DNA results or surname and find your place in the worldwide genetic family tree. The Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to building the world's foremost collection of DNA and corresponding genealogical information.

SMGF is making their collection available for searching on this web site. Finding matching DNA results and pedigrees in the Sorenson Database can help you make new family connections throughout the world and across generations.

The Foundation is a world leader in DNA research with direct application to genealogy. Their work complements other studies that focus on the "deep ancestry" of humankind.

SMGF was inspired by discussions in 1999 between philanthropist James LeVoy Sorenson and BYU Professor Scott Woodward about using DNA in genealogy.

Since that time, SMGF has collected more than 60,000 DNA samples, together with four-generation pedigree charts, from volunteers in more than 100 countries around the world.

Y-chromosome DNA results and pedigree charts are available for searching in the Sorenson Database. Y-DNA results and pedigrees help you trace your direct paternal line.

SMGF plans to release the Sorenson Mitochondrial Database in the second half of 2006. mtDNA results and pedigrees can help you trace your direct maternal line.

The Foundation is also conducting research on autosomal DNA, and plans to release the Sorenson Autosomal Database in the near future. Autosomal DNA results and pedigrees can help you trace both family lines.

"I can't think of anything that matters more than reminding people everywhere that in a very real sense, we are all brothers and sisters," says Mr. Sorenson about our genetic connections.

We invite you to participate in the SMGF project and search the Sorenson Database. Help grow the genetic family tree, one branch at a time.