General Chat

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am I missing something below here?????

My Gran just called and said would I like to go to dinner on Sunday as her neice is visiting from Watford. She just so happens to be a direct ancestor of the line I am currently researching but don't know much about. Now I haven't seen her for years and don't want to turn up with pad in hand and start pumping her for family info. It would seen rude.......but.........will temptation prove too strong? Will I ask her if she has her dad's war medals? Will I ask her if her grandad was really imprisioned for theft?........yeah probably! ;o)......well wouldn't you? Claire xx

You are too quick for me! Claire xx

Hi Claire, Take the information you have on the family and show it to her. When she begins to comment ask if she minds if you make a note of what she says - I imagine she'll be fine with it. Gwynne

Morning Gwynne, Nice holiday? Yes sue I think I may sneak in a few questions. From what I can remember she seems an amiable lady. I just don't want to dominate the conversation. I think I may take along a few bits and pieces from my research to see if she comments. Good idea! Claire xx

I can understand your need for answers. I would be tempted to ask loads of questions too but facing someone who is 'taking notes' might actually stop the freeflow of information. How good are you at 'chat'? If you can get the niece talking about family, where they lived etc. you can throw in a few lead questions. I have found out quite alot this way, especially with older people. Such innocent questions as 'Did you always live in that house?'might get a reply such as' No. We only moved there in .... when Dad left the Navy and we had to move from Devon' Perhaps you could ask if you could contact her by letter to help with further research. Enjoy your lunch!

I did this at the Xmas dinner table when my relics were spilling.... I looked at the host and asked if she would mind me taking notes and she was so please to help. Keep a small one in your handbag and ask before using it and no doubt they will be fine!! Good luck xx

I dont think it would be unpolite to take one, but ask first, not to ask would be impolite. Then get the torch and shine it in her eyes lol

Agree with LG ... about the asking ... not the torch! I always take one, then decide whether it would intimidate ... quite often it stays in my bag! Good luck! Jane

Claire - take the notebook but keep it in your bag and then if the moment seems right do a Dave Bennett and whip it out, lol.

Oooh errr!!! LOL Claire xx

Gosh you're a scream Bendy LOL, I would certainly take a notebook but also definatley ask before producing it and I'm sure if you tell her what you are doing she will be only to glad to help you, and give her your email address and snail mail one too,in case she can do some more research with her reli's too good luck to you Lara