Maggie, Do not let this debate stop you from joining the genealogical society. They may have rules, but the wealth of information that the genealogical society has (and works to get out to the people) is wonderful. You will never know if you will like it until you try it. I am not trying to discourage anyone from doing their research in any fashion they like. I only want the expectations of conformity to lighten up a little. I hate to see someone totally give up on anything because they feel they will not be "up to snuff." I am not "up to snuff" on my research according to a lot of people, and it drives me crazy that some people think that the genealogy world would be a better place without my "amatuer" work. I agree with you on a mother knowing when her own child was born, and even knowing who the father was. I know there are exceptions to every rule, but women know when they give birth....LOL. Carolyn