T of N.J. – (Lives Long Lost)

I have known I was adopted since birth but never had a curiosity about my birth family.

When the state of New Jersey unsealed birth certificates I was 68 years old and realized it was about time I looked at my birth certificate. I got the certificate and it contained pertinent birth information including my birth mother’s name and her address at the time of my birth. I contacted Sharon who I knew worked on genealogy . What I had hoped at the time was that just maybe I would find out the type of life my birth mother had lived. I had been put on a path by this woman that gave me a full, happy and loving life (not without its peaks and valleys). I was hoping she had a good life.

Within a short period of time, Sharon was able to find a member of the family my birth mother had worked for at the time of my birth. She was able and more than willing to tell me what a lovely person she was and the type of life she had led. I was thrilled beyond belief that after 68 years and no knowledge of my history, Sharon was able to put this information in my lap.

Then came another turn! Through Sharon’s efforts she was able to find birth family members, starting with a 3rd cousin and then eventually turning up 12 first cousins! When a scheduled trip to Ireland was mentioned these family members (all of whom reside in Ireland) requested that we meet. At age 69 I walked into a room and was surrounded by family who I resembled. I cannot say how this experience has colored my world. I never in my wildest dreams envisioned find out the information I now have. I haven’t even begun to pursue the information that Sharon has uncovered about my birth father.

Her work and passion for this field is amazing. She is willing to take you on a path where you feel comfortable. It is never too late to pursue your history!

T. in New Jersey

I have always been interested in my family’s history and ancestry, but never knew much about it.  Sharon said that she could and would help me with this.  I gave her my parent’s phone number and after a few conversations, she was off like a race car.  She absolutely stunned us all! The information which she accumulated fills two binders.

My Mother’s ancestry she traced back to 1648 and was able to determine that the family came to America on the second ship after the Mayflower.  I had known only through word of mouth that we had ancestors who were part of the American Revolution, and with her help, I was able to become a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.My Father’s history she was able to trace back to the 1500’s in Italy along with baptismal records and documentation of marriages and deaths.  Unbeliev-ably amazing, what she has uncovered.

I will always be in her debt for doing this for me and my family.  I can not thank her enough.

Don’t hesitate to contact her.

Charlie P. in New Jersey

This gift was the hit of my mother’s 90th birthday party.  Everyone wanted to check out the binder which remained open the entire evening.  Friends and family took pictures of  every single page. It was so much fun to see birth and engagement announcements of the family, especially since no one had ever seen them before.  Additionally, there were several surprise newspaper articles, OMG! Word got out to those who were unable to attend the party, so we had it copied for them to enjoy. 

A really great gift idea!

M. in Pennsylvania

Was hoping to discover more about my African American heritage.

Our Family Binder had accompanied my parents to the family reunion this year.  Everyone was astounded with all of its’ documentation as well as what was discovered.

Utterly speechless with the presentation & final project, I felt as though I was a participant on the PBS program, “Finding Your Roots.”

I Highly Recommend!

R. in New York