Hi list, I think I know what everyone's saying. Sure, its nice to receive a pat on the back for expended efforts. I don't worry about it too much, though. I do keep a reminder in the back on my mind (or what's left of it) whom I have helped and who has been appreciative. I think its in the searchers best interests to make a friendly informational exchange. If someone milks me for stuff and I never receive a kind word, my human nature, being what it is), seems to find less time to provide more help. Derick S. Hartshorn Asst. State Coordinator, NCGenWeb Page owner - Catawba Co. NCGenWeb page - Burke Co. NCGenWeb page - Hartshorn Family home page List owner - Catawba-West-L - NCBURKE-L - NCLINCOL-L - NCTRYON-L - HARTSHORN-L - WHITE-PA-NC-L > >Cheska, I don't really think most people mean that they will ONLY thank you >in advance and not after the fact. Maybe I'm naive, but I believe many want >you to know that they even thank you if you don't find anything and >therefore don't reply. I don't say "thanks in advance" because I know the >researchers don't appreciate that, but wouldn't it be nice if there was a >short "something" you could say in advance that shows your appreciation for >even reading the question? I'll bet there are many people posting questions >who have never asked a favor of a stranger before--at least in writing. >Most of us do really appreciate both your knowledge and your willingness to >share it and we'll thank you many times for any help we can get. "Thanks!"