From Ellen: << ..... I'm heartsick that we've lost a treasured contributor to this list. I've reiterated to Vee that her health is the most important thing for her to concentrate on right now, but that I'd gladly welcome her rejoining us whenever she feels better. I know I speak for many others when I say that the list will miss her terribly. :( >> -->> Ellen and All, You said many things in your message after reading Vee's unsubscribe message. I realize Vee herself will not see this, but I think there are two primary things here: 1) I agree. The most important thing for Vee right now is doing whatever gives her the most peace of mind, pleasure and healing as possible. On or off list.. But, yes... she will surely and sorely missed here if she stays offlist. 2) I'm happy that "remembrances" are deemed "on topic" on this list. For those who do not wish to go that direction, it's easy to "delete" and move on to the next post. We have lots of different types of posts here - and that's a good thing! That's the "list stuff". On a personal note, I'm just sorry that a valued list member was made to "feel bad" for sharing her memories. I understand that it was done privately - and that's good - but still - why the need at all? Multiple conversations are possible here... so why not just start up one of interest and "carry on"??? And why not just be "glad" we have folks who "do" want to share their memories? Sounds like there were a lot of wellwishes sent to Vee privately... and just this "one"... that didn't ... but it comes at a vulnerable time... so while not the majority, all it would "take" is one, when you are not feeling up to snuff. Ah well.. Ellen.. thanks for publically commenting... hope Vee reads (and takes to heart) your private message. I'm sure she'll get others as well. To all of "you"... I enjoy this list. And part of "that" is because there "is" variety. We can discuss surnames, availability of records, the latest cemetary walk.. or "what life was like when"... We can take that local history walk via a pioneer book... or look a little closer to home.. and talk to people "now".... in our own families if it isn't too late... and with folks here on this list!!! It's "all" part of the fabric of what we do! debbie CAhobbies@aol.com