4 Ways to Discover Your Roots

No, we're not talking about those gray hairs. Or those weeds that keep popping up in your lawn. We're talking about your family!

Next Monday is National Roots Day. A day to look back on your ancestors, to share stories with family, and just gather to discover your family history. The holidays are a great opportunity to do this. We've compiled a a few ideas on how you can find and share your roots. Family trees and histories make great gifts.

1. Family Search

There are few apps you can use to record your family history. The most user friendly one we've found is FamilySearch or familysearch.org. Not only can you search for ancestors and keep track of them, you can also share what you find with others, make keepsakes, and store photos and stories all in one place. And the best part? It's free! Also try the sister app, FamilySearch Memories where you can do more creative projects to preserve your family history. These make great gifts.

Ancestry.com is another good site, but it's not 100% free.

2. All About Me

Have each family member fill out an "All About Me" sheet before a family gathering. You can compile them into a book or digital file as a gift to your family. Use the free download below as a starting point. You'll have so much to talk about when you get together.

3. Make a Time Capsule

Find a container that will last for a while and put items or letters in it that you can look at in 5 to 10 years. You don't need to bury it in the back yard, but put it somewhere out of the way, maybe with your Christmas decorations. When you open it, it will be a great present from the past.

Some good items to include are: a letter to your future self, photos, a printout of the day's big news stories, predictions for your future, a recording of your favorite song, and a selfie.

4. A Real Photo Album

Take the time to print out some of those digital photos and create an album or book that you can share with family members this Christmas. It doesn't have to be fancy or cost a lot. The point is to get people talking about experiences and memories. Services like Snapfish, make this super easy.

Good luck finding your roots and then sharing them with your family!