Hi Gena, I read your message regarding genealogy programs and would like to suggest Family Tree Maker. It is SO easy to use and generates the most amazing reports, family group sheets and trees. GEDCOM files are a snap. Correcting errors is also easy and adding another spouse, etc., is extremely easy. It also has scrap booking capabilities and you can connect to the Internet while in the program. It also allows you to have a personal web site where you can post material. I also have the PAF program loaded on my computer. I have a cousin in Utah who uses this program -- she sends files that have to be opened in PAF. I think it is a very difficult and cumbersome program to use -- but perhaps I am just plain spoiled after using Family Tree Maker for so many years. I saw the latest edition of Family Tree Maker at Office Max a week or so ago -- it was $49. It included the latest SSDI (Social Security Death Index) and some other genealogy CD's. This program has a lot of tools and aids that are helpful for researchers -- such as the ability to print census sheets, etc., as well as "how to" suggestions. The only drawback I have found is the continual upgrades -- they add an option or two each time -- but they really don't enhance the basic usefulness of the program. If you bought the most recent Family Tree Maker software, I think you would be set for years and years. Hope this helps as you shop for software. If I can answer any questions, please let me know. Lonna Jean >snip Subject: [MO-OREGON-HISTORY] Genealogy programs...pros and cons Date: Thu, 26 Jun 2003 23:17:42 -0700 From: "Regena Lally" <jrl91@worldnet.att.net> To: MO-OREGON-HISTORY-L@rootsweb.com Hello to my favorite list... Some time ago my old computer died, and it took with it my PAF system. I think much of my data may be retrievable by disk, but it is such a pain getting to it. Before do so I would like to make a decision about a new program. PAF was a good program, and now upgrades can be downloaded free. However it was a bit cumbersome to use. Especially after the death, re-marriage and the 2nd family of children came along. It took me a long while to learn that part, and now have forgotten what I learned. I will replace my program, but would like the opinion of those on the list. Here are my priorities... 1. Ease of use 2. Cost 3. Comprehensive program 4. Ability to print out new and up dated info on group sheets, etc. easily 5. Now that I am finding old photos, perhaps a way to include them 6. Since I am also a quilter...the thought in the back of my mind is...can this program assist me in a family memory quilt with transferred photos? Open to any and all thoughts and suggestions. Gena Gates Lally Sun City AZ >end snip