2020 started out bleak from a Numismatics standpoint.  I had been collecting coins since the 1960s, but didn't have a clue.

I became active, first by reading everything I could get my hands on, then joining the ANA.

I read the blogs without responding, was all this something reserved for only experienced folks?  

Did you have to have the computer equivalent of a secret handshake to join in?  

If you were new and didn't know what you were doing would the folks on the site ignore you or worse?  

How do you communicate with people who obviously know what they're talking about when you don't?

You are older and don't have a strong computer background, can you even succeed in making a post?

There is no manual, how in the heck do you put pictures up?  

What could someone with my limited knowledge bring to the table so to speak?

On 1 Aug 2020, I posted my first blog, nervous.... hell yeah, I was just waiting to be blown out of the water by folks telling me I was wasting their time.

Oobie was the first person to respond to my blog, and even stranger as I was to later find out Mike didn't respond at all.  There was even a response from some Bama fan, not normally a  welcome thing  if you're an Auburn man!  Lol!

All welcomed me, even told me to contact them if I had any questions.

I try to remember those feelings when I see a post from a new person, if I with my life experiences could feel that nervous and apprehensive over my first blog, think of how others must feel.

I have developed friendships with many here on this site, have been mentored, taught valuable knowledge, become a better person overall.

You guys and gals, young and old have made me a part of this family, allowing me to pass on personal experiences, lessons learned. 

 I look back at my knowledge level today and April feels like 10 years ago.  What is exciting is I know I'm just beginning to learn!

So from the Stumpy household to all of yours, Merry Christmas, and I hope 2021 is a better year for all.  Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.  

Nuff Said!