For years I have wondered where my ancestors once lived. I am a Latina whose parents have roots in the Mexican state of Zacatecas. So I had a general idea. I am definitely Mexican. However, that is not enough. I wanted to go deeper. My friends would always discourage me and say "Brenda the test is going to say, Mexican. Don't spend your money on that. You do not need a test to tell you the obvious." A week ago I purchased a 23andme ancestry kit. I did this behind their backs afraid they would discourage me once more. I didn't tell them about my plans.

I got a deal, there was a 20% sale going on so why not? According to their site, it takes 6-8 weeks to get results. This does not factor in the days it took for my kit to arrive and for it to be sent to their lab. So it looks like this will take at least 10 weeks.

The process

I honestly hope I provided my sample to the best of my ability. There are instructions on how to provide a saliva sample in a small tube. It's honestly kind of gross. You cannot eat or drink anything 30 minutes prior to the sample. Then, you must seal it with a cap that releases a stabilizing liquid. After this step, you must place the tube in a biohazard bag. The bag must then be placed in the original box and mailed back to 23andme's lab. I would honestly prefer to personally go to their laboratory and have a professional administer the test. I am not the best at directions. So I am keeping my fingers crossed and holding my breath.

I received an e-mail about 23andme receiving my sample so at least I mailed it back correctly. In two months time, I will know where my ancestors once lived. My best guess is that I have Spanish and native roots. Zacatecas was once part of a conglomerate of states known as Nueva Galicia. Zacatecas is famous for its mines and once produced 50% of the worlds silver. This caused many Europeans to rush towards Mexico in an attempt to get rich quick. It was also home to many indigenous tribes. My future plans are to travel to all the highlighted parts on my chart. I have always been captivated by exploration.

There are some pretty cool stories for people who have used this product. I might even be from a totally different part of the world. I have always been fascinated by research. I hope to add to my story. To my friends: you guys are just a bunch of haters. I am optimistic that this test is not a waste of money.