Q: I have been reading your columns for a couple of years and like the way you say things. I am considering writing our family history, as you recently suggested.

I am in my 60s and am nearing retirement. In discussing this idea with my family, they think it is great, but no one is willing to step up to the plate to get the project started. But the good news is that several members are willing to help by supplying their information, photos and other data. Do you think I can get it done?

A: Yes. But it is not an easy undertaking, and to do a good job requires a great deal of research, time and commitment. Also, be aware that some members prefer for secrets and negative experiences to not be exposed. For example, did grandfather drink a tad too much?

Include the important facts about where your family originated, the loving and happiest times you shared, birth and death dates, work challenges and successes, educations, passions, hopes, financial hardships, avocations, dreams, photos and remembrances.

Now, DNA researchers are attempting to learn more about what health predications may lie ahead for future generations. Including major health histories could prove valuable as genetic findings unfold.

If you are concerned about family reaction, you can let them proofread it before you publish. Use 3-by-5 notecards, recording only one detail on each card. This makes it easier to juggle the timelines later.

Births, growing up times, educations, marriages, and humorous details that you've experienced together will be interesting to include. Do not hesitate to overwrite, because as you edit later, you can flip your cards into sequence.

Local libraries where you grew up are excellent hunting grounds to confirm fuzzy details. After you have finished your first draft, stash it away for a couple of months. You will find that every rewrite enhances your memory.

Self-publishing has come a long way and become inexpensive. Making gift copies for holidays, birthdays and anniversaries could prove to be big time winners!

Q: Our car is 6 years old and still in good shape. However, we now have five grandchildren and need more passenger space. One grandson is 18 and needs transportation for his job.

We plan to give our car to him. In knowing that accidents can often occur among teenage drivers going though their learning curve, what advice should we offer?

A: Insurance statistics reveal that the majority of teenage accidents are caused by alcohol, distraction (like changing music controls), cellphone communications, driving barefooted, eating, reacting to road rage, smoking and a lack of concentration.

Encourage him to drive by himself until he feels comfortable and is legally allowed to drive in order to avert many of these dangers. He will soon learn that even if it is not his fault, other drivers may become his greatest challenge!

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California Retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.