Tamarisk

"A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots."
Marcus Garvey
 
So I set off to visit relatives on a route that was so familiar when Dad was alive.  I used to drive him to keep in touch with his sisters, little realising just how much my interest in Family History would be stimulated.  My visits now are part keeping in touch, part research for the next thrilling edition of my story about the family [ha ha].  I managed to self-publish the first part about his life in time for Christmas, partly as a present for his grandchildren.  That was well received which was a relief as it took much, much longer than anticipated.  Once I got stuck in to it I found myself visiting the Archives in five counties, from Worcester to Cardiff.  I also found a new outlet for creativity, not only writing about his life but sketching, photographing and painting places he'd lived.  There was also plenty of social history too as he'd had such a varied "career", from a footman and butler to RAF electrician.  And so I'm now researching for an extended version of the Family History, the grandparents [and beyond].  Plenty of raw material to work on, with their involvement in WWI and the massive changes in their lives.

Another successful visit today with lots of interesting little snippets of stories for the "book" - and an enjoyable lunch out with the aunts and uncle J.  Had a detour via Glasbury on my return journey, dropping in to the Scout hut to enquire about the old diaries that were once kept there in the 1930's, when Dad was there.  Hoping for some response...

Todays photo is the beautiful Tamarisk tree which stands outside C's house, welcoming visitors with such a stunning display of colour and elegance.  I can't recall ever having seen it looking so good.