Just another newbie introduction

**SandraK** · 5th October 17, 06:46 PM

Hello, my name's Sandra Kassabian (nee Shearburn White). My maternal grandfather, Alexander Campbell Vallance was Scottish born in Annan, Dumfries. I suppose you could say were a very far away branch of clan Johnston(e). I was born in Brazil but have both a Brazilian and British passport. Papa enlisted (under age) during World War I and his parents were tenant farmers. I'm afraid that you'll find my spelling a little mixed up - part British and part U.S. I have second cousins in Edinburgh but haven't had a chance to visit the U.K. for a while. My brother Rob unfortunately passed away this February from cancer leaving a widow, Fabiola, as well as son Christopher and daughter Stephanie in Sussex, England. I live in the U.S. and have since 1977, hobbies are gardening, reading, music and pet parrots (small ones).

I've joined in hopes of finding more information about my clan so that I can give both my sons, James and Justin, as much information about their family history as possible. Also in hopes of making sure they both have clan kilts as well as getting something for myself.

I'm happy to say that James (eldest @ 31) has the clan motto (don't know if that's the right word) tattooed on one arm. Justin (now 27 and recently wed) wore a kilt to his high school though it wasn't the clan tartan; he was challenged by school security who told him "he couldn't wear a skirt" (big no-no) and he promptly corrected them (he had checked the school handbook beforehand). So, I suppose, the clan motto "Nunquam Non Paratus" still applies along with a certain determination (or stubbornness) as my husband calls it.

Sorry for the long intro.

**Kiltedjohn** · 5th October 17, 11:26 PM

Hello, Sandra. Welcome from a Scotsman living in the English midlands.

**Father Bill** · 6th October 17, 04:09 AM

Welcome to the “Great Rabble”!

**Tarheel** · 6th October 17, 04:34 AM

Well met Sandra. I hope you are able to get information here as well as direction to other sites for your family ties. Let your sons know they can visit anytime to adjust their kilting needs. We're glad to have you here.