Why I Returned to AC

This has nothing to do with Associated Content (AC) the company, but everything to do with the folks that gather on her pages. Frankly, AC doesn't deserve the talent it is blessed with. Yes, I have met plenty of jerks, hacks and radicals, but this is not about them it is about you, my friends.

During a three-month hiatus from AC, none of which was for pleasure, educational pursuits or simple respite, I decided not to return. I logged on one day to say my goodbyes, but as I bounced around from article to article I remained engaged, Cathy's article AC Captive comes to mind.

My faves inspired me, my detractors awakened me, and my friends welcomed me. I was hooked once again and could not stay away from the crazy AC bunch, I say that with affection.

Friends such as Charlotte Kuchinsky continued to warm the heart. Whenever this old salty dog prided himself on being impenetrable, Charlotte would prove me wrong.

The wit of J P Whickson, Lori Lane, and Nancy Canfield kept me chuckling as did the whimsical poetry of Steven West. Speaking of Mr. West, I looked forward to the political challenge from my left of center friends such as Louisa Burgess and Carol Bengle Gilbert.

It is a joy discussing the issues despite the differences, sometimes vast, because Patriotism always shone through. Folks, when love of country is at the fore front, common ground is attainable.

The more I navigated the pages of AC my goodbyes evolved into hellos as I met new friends such as Janet Hunt, Linda Louise Johnson, Rachel de Carlos, Sherri Thornhill, and Brian Schultz who I would go on patrol with any day.

In addition to my new found friends, the warmth and work ethic of Jennifer Wagner, K.
Karl, Angel Vee and of course ARTME certainly created smiles and inspiration. Kudos to the ladies that have contributed so much to the AC experience.

My old pals kept a light on for me, friends that I consider culture warriors fighting the good fight. Great Americans endeavoring to keep America Free, friends such as Snidely Whiplash, Justice Lives Not, Randy Inman, and Anne Bryant.

Speaking of warriors, Marie Anne St. Jean and Clark Richards has earned our thanks for their service to our country. In fact, if you are reading this thank a teacher; if you are reading this in English thank a soldier. Marie Anne, Clark and the rest of our Defenders of Freedom you have my undying gratitude.

Sheryl Young wears her love of God and Country on her sleeve, which is right up my alley. Sheryl introduces Christianity with the acceptance of all, which epitomizes what Freedom is all about.

AC would not be what it is for me with out the uplifting and encouraging words of April Lorier, the multi-talent of Kim Linton, whose page you can visit for cutting edge information on the latest computer technology or the brilliance of a sermon.

April, Kim, and Sheryl have the ability to provide the medicine for what ails the soul and the intelligence to sort out the nonsense of today's political issues.

Speaking of medicine, I couldn't resist visiting the good doctor Kristie Leong M.D. A trip to her office...uh...page will teach you about beauty tips, which I pass on to my wonderful bride, the importance of diet, exercise, and proper living, which includes the family pet. Following Kristie's advice will help extend anyone's stay on AC and possibly this earth.

I can do this all day, but for the sake of brevity (I know too late) I will wrap it up, but not before I reach for an Alabama Peanut Butter Muffin baked by my friend Pat Burroughs. I'll chase that with some down to earth dish by Shanika, where you can get the no nonsense what's up about the current political beat to the best free wall paper this side of the web.

Last but not least I always enjoyed the view points and content of SFaloon, Sylvia Cochran and Wendy Dawn. I cannot forget my Canadian friend Carol Roach, who Charlotte introduced me to, or the short stories and exotic destinations that Mr. Norman A. Rubin regaled us with.

It is this collective that held me captive in the AC world and I'm grateful to the bunch of ya. I know I left some fantastic people and writers out, I apologize for that, please forgive my absent-minded omissions.

This rambling piece I wrote came from the heart and my intention was not to reduce anyone to a particular category or even link you to another writer, for it is the plethora of gifts you have given and your independent spirit that kept this caveman coming back.

Write On and Never Forget!