If you go then who will post? At times your posts have made me gasp in shock and other times have made me burst out laughing - at least you are evoking human responses. Sit, stay.

sit, smile, stay. Don't taking anything here too seriously. Other internet people I know call trouble makers trolls. I think that there may be a few trolls around (you no whom you R) ****all mistakes intentional****

Paul

Tony, you probably don't know who I am but I know your posts. You're very entertaining, and you also know what you're talking about so I usually learn something at it...

Thanks.

Rose

Why would any writer be more "lowly" than another writer? This opinion exists, of course. But I suspect that the ones who hold that opinion are generally the least paid (or their field isn't generally well paid), and think that anyone who hustles for the writing bucks is selling out somehow. I could be wrong.

I've seen this "snarky" behavior on other writers' groups, and I just don't get it. The writing biz is tough enough already; why make it worse? I've always felt there's room for everyone. If I help someone who writes similar pieces, and they end up being my competition, well, I guess that means I have to work a little harder and be a better writer. And if I'm a better writer, everyone benefits.

In my college business class many years ago, we were advised never to step on anyone underneath us because one day we might be the ones they step on. The guy/gal you're being rude to on a forum might end up someday being that editor that rejects your work. Something to think about, hm?

As painful as it is for me to bring up - sometimes the 'snarky' behaviour is what enlivens this forum! An animated conversation is more entertaining than a calmly-stating-the-facts one.

OK, Tony ... I have decided to jump in here and help push this rope up the proverbial hill.

Things have cooled down out on the Iowa prairie and my motivation for outdoor pursuits tends to mimic the thermometer. No snow skis or snowmobiles will be found in my garage. Cold weather not only numbs my fingers, it also numbs my mind. However, chilly temps afford me the opportunity to justify indulging in indoor activities. I try to limit most of those endeavors so they can accommodate including a cup of good coffee.

Eliminating a plethora of minor household projects is always high on my wife's list of winter priorities. Although I whittle away at that list, I also relish the opportunity for intellectual pursuits. Researching intriguing topics is always a delight. Special mental treats are marveled at and savored when some author is able to capture and convey a concept in a particularly concise and enlightening manner.

For years I have pondered this ability that some people wield as a wordsmith. It is a skill that most will never attain. Some are able to succeed sporadically while a few others possess an innate pinnacle of consistency.

The assemblage of words into concise, cogent thoughts is a pursuit that I find cold weather makes easier. Gone are the distractions of most horticultural labors. Hot, caffeine enriched liquid leached from "the bean of the gods" just seems like a natural companion to my keyboard and serves to stimulate my mind.

...Time for a refill. Here's to you, Tony.
Happy Holidays.

IronBelly

If you have really left the forum this time then you will be missed.
While not a writer myself, I am an avid reader of garden books and articles. With all the material available it is sometimes hard to figure out what to read and where to find it. Reading everything is simply not an option (at this time) so finding sources of reliable information is necessary. This forum has provided a wealth of new writers to explore and many an hour of entertainment perusing the old posts. I thank you and all the others for your contributions past and future. Happy Holidays!!!