This list highlights specialized primary archives, regional databases, and unique research tools for Ireland, excluding the "Big Four" platforms. Note for 2026: the 1926 Census of Ireland is now fully released and freely available via the National Archives, offering a key genealogical window into the post-Independence era.
THEORY: The evolving nature of family history research
We now contend that Mary McKernan did not come from Old Machar in Aberdeenshire, nor from County Down, as previously hypothesized. As of early 2026, those theories no longer fit the record. A different explanation has emerged, supported not by one decisive document but by a growing coherence among many smaller ones.
INSIGHT: Harnessing the power of change
At first blush, the fact that change is inevitable can feel unsettling. What can we count on if everything shifts? Acknowledging change may spark powerlessness or resignation. Yet one constant remains: change itself, and we can act to shape how it unfolds.
ARTICLE: Constructive Living; Accept your feelings, know your purpose, do what needs to be done.
Accepting feelings is not ignoring them or avoiding them, but welcoming them; Vietnamese poet and writer, Thich Nhat Hanh recommends we say, "Hello Loneliness, how are you today? Come, sit by me and I will take care of you." Morita's advice: "In feelings, it is best to be wealthy and generous", ie, have many and let them fly as they wish.
YOGA: Sequence A to Lower High Blood Pressure & Increase Circulation
Yoga has been shown to positively impact blood pressure regulation through its ability to activate the relaxation response, reduce sympathetic nervous system activity, and improve endothelial function, ultimately resulting in lowered blood pressure levels.
TIP: Jump into family history research
These are just a couple tips and tricks to make your family history research more productive and less overwhelming. Using city emblems for profile avatars is one of the top five tricks to get the most out of the tree view,
TIP: The Differences Between Ancestry, Heredity, Genealogy, and Ethnicity
Ancestry, heredity, genealogy, ethnicity, nationality, culture, and heritage are just a few of the terms that are often used interchangeably, despite having distinct meanings and connotations. Let's unpack the terminology and explore these differences.
Re-enter Your Dreams to Harness Their Power
This is a transcript of the Dream Re-entry process developed by Dr. Fred Olsen. The conversation occurred in an online chat room focusing on dreams. Dr. Olsen (Dreamtrack) enters the conversation and starts the process with the dreamer (Bravo). The questions posed are the heart of the process. My comments, based on my notes from a workshop I attended with Dr. Olsen, are in parenthesis ().