I've learned about so many products I never would've known about otherwise. My BlueStar range, for example.

I agree with all the things you mention, sandtab! On top of all those good reasons, one thing I especially love is that the forum posts are searchable. I don't know how I'd manage without that feature since there is such a huge amount of good advice, ideas, and information here.

The patience and generosity of the GW'ers willing to take the time and effort to be helpful. The recipient builds a desire to pay it forward.

I love this forum because everyone is so SMART and help me see completely new things in design. I've learned a tremendous amount here and I know when I have a question I can come here to find answers. I also love that you know where to find a BARGAIN!

I like this forum because everyone is nice! It sounds so trite, but it's true. Many forums have good information. They also have posters who delight in nit picking, rudeness and one upmanship (is that a word?). This forum is informative and pleasant. It's a hard combination to find on the web.

deee - I agree. Your Virginia mist honed granite counters were my inspiration counters and you were so generous to share pictures, info and pricing. Many, many thanks.

1. All my friends, family, and neighbors are really sick and tired of listening to my kitchen babble (which faucet? the drainpipe from h*ll! pulls v. knobs? so tired of living with the dust! Shaw's label showing or not?) but you all actually get it!

2. The phenomenal amount of knowledge out there -- I only wish I'd discovered this forum while still in the design phase.

3. The ability to drool over theresab's and cloudswift's granite and realize that mine may, someday, I hope, look as nice and that I may not be crazy for wanting blue granite!

4. Widgets, i-chic, my alter ego nomoreblue (or am I the evil twin?), and many other people and posts that brighten my day while I can't possibly get any work done over the dreadful racket!

5. The lack of commercialism -- so often websites feel like someone is just trying to sell you something.

I found ideas for several items I untimately included in my kitchen: Undercabinet lighting, airswitch for my garbage disposer, cabinet hardware that was both attractive and sensibly priced. I have not been a contributor for about 2 years but recently remodeled the back half of my home and came in to see what's going on here. Some of the same nice folks are still here.

I agree with deee, I have observed very very few instances of catty behavior on this board - whereas it seems common on other boards. This is a very pleasant group of people, even though most are under the stress of a remodel. It seems that this is the most helpful, positive and pleasant group. I have had several "OH MY GOSH - HELP!" panic moments during our kitchen remodel, and have had those nerves calmed by empathy and good advice. While I'm at it, a hearty "THANK YOU!" to y'all for being here.

---Boxie

I love that whatever idea you come up with, someone has done it and can let you know the goods and bads. No matter how obscure or random an appliance/granite/cabinet choice, someone is there to help guide you through the selection process, reassure you that your choice was good, or caution you away before you make a misstep.

I love the support when someone posts a panicked "help!" or vent.

I love the different finished kitchens and seeing each person's vision come to life.

I love that even though I'm at least a year away from starting my kitchen remodel, I feel right at home here! :)