Grandpa Roberts

Talking to my dad a few days ago I discovered why my Grandpa Roberts joined the military. He came from a family of coal miners and they didn't have money. My grandpa only had one pair of pants and one shirt. Everyday when he got home from school he had to wash his clothes so he could wear them the next day. He wanted a better life than that and dropped out of high school to join the military.

Of course I asked my dad why I never knew this story. His response was a shrug of the shoulders. I told him that while he is sitting at home I want him to get on his laptop and write down all the stories he could remember about his family. He laughed and then I told him how important I felt it was to be able to share stories with future generations. I guess we'll have to see if he follows through.

Family History

Talking to family you've never met can be awkward, but rewarding. I've discovered that you can learn a lot from people that you don't know. A thorough family history has been provided to me regarding my grandmother's father's family. It is amazing to see names of people that you descend from. I love when side stories are thrown in to give you a better perspective of your descendants. Looking forward to learning more and providing my own information.

Family Photo

I was gathering pictures to add to a Facebook group for the Descendants of Moniteau County, Missouri. I came across this picture of the family, minus Christopher Burgan. He decided to spend Thanksgiving with his grandma while the rest of us went to Goofy's Kitchen.

Sissa's B-day at Disneyland

Chris, Jenn, and Sissa spent the morning of her Birthday at Disneyland. We enjoyed several adult rides and a little shopping. It was a fairly relaxed morning. We should try and give it a shot more often. It is always a pleasure to see Disneyland decorated for the holidays. Although we didn't stay to see the snow or Christmas lights on it was still a lot of fun.

Christmas Cookie Party 2009

Well this year the turn out was small for our annual cookie party, but fun none the less. We made Gingersnap Cookies and Brown Sugar Cookie Cut-outs. Hunter even got to join in the excitement and cut out a few cookies. Have you ever seen a cookie that has been cut-out by a 1 year old. Adorable!

Anakin Blocking

Anakin joined karate and learned how to block. He is very excited about this new endeavor!

Quick Catch-Up

Here is the scoop on the family:

• Chris Burgan is playing like mad and teaching too.
• Jenn Burgan is working as a long-term sub until the middle of October. She'll have an English Clear Credential by November. Yeah!!!!
• Jess Roberts - nothing has changed!
• Yvonne Roberts retired in June and is planning to enjoy life a little more!
• Tad McKinney graduated from law school in May, took the bar in July, and is waiting for results to arrive in November.
• Melissa McKinney is working hard and exhausting herself being a mommy!
• Hunter McKinney is WALKING!!!
• Kris Roberts is looking to get his electrician's certification and then find a job!
• Michelle Roberts is busy working and raising a family.
• Anakin Roberts is POTTY TRAINED!!! Wooohooo!
• Leia Roberts is talking!
• Troy Lucardie started 7th grade!
• Ethan Lucardie started 6th grade! Middle school, YIKES!

Well that pretty much gets you up to speed on the family. I will make new posts with photos soon!