I experienced this as well. I've been on quite a dry spell because I've been helping my father who has throat cancer and is about to start chemo again for the third time. Only to keep things in check until his time comes. The docs say there's not much else they can do. With this kind of news it's hard to have a good day.

About a week or two ago, a request on this board for specific chips was made. One was a chip I had in my personal collection so I made contact as I thought I had a trader. It turns out I didn't and after a few emails and a great history lesson, a trade was made. One that was greatly in my favor. The chips I received in trade were chips I will never part with, as with any gift I have ever received from fellow collectors.

At about the same time, another series of emails started with a different collector. He explained that he had a few items from some clubs I have been having great difficulty finding anything from. Asked for my address and I received everything in the scan today!

I cannot tell you or anyone else how my heart swelled. I haven't been able to renew my membership for a couple of years because of other personal issues but I feel like part of the family anyway. Collectors like these are what make this hobby great and a little wind in my sails during this trying time of my life means more to me than I could ever express.

It's good to remind ourselves how truly blessed were are to be part of this collecting family.