A Piece of History A few days ago I received a package in the mail. In it there was a variety of genealogy items including the tiniest possible ziplock bag containing a little piece of stone and an explanatory note. I have deleted details that might cause problems for the person who removed two tiny fragments of stone from a historical site. "You are receiving a piece of [the ancestral home]. [My daughter] didn't see me take them and couldn't believe I'd taken them when I showed them to her in Dublin. She says 'Mom, I can't believe you actually did that -- can you imagine what would happen if all the [family] that go there did that!' Oh well --- say I." I found this story amusing. I was the one that encouraged the traveler to physically touch the walls of the ancestral home when she visited it. I didn't suggest taking unauthorized souvenirs, and the daughter asks a very valid question. I think the best answer is "Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints." The two of them visited the dining room at the ancestral home and sat down. The waitress came to them and said "This is a private club. You are members aren't you?" "Of course", replied the mother with a smile, and they proceeded to order their meal and enjoy it. She is a fun gal, and she loves her ancestors. I hope they got a chuckle or two from her adventures that day. I am touched that she would think of me at such a special time and place. I will probably never get a chance to travel to the old country to touch those walls. I appreciate my own little piece. Please don't do it again, but thank you! You are wonderful, and I am blessed to know you.