I think popular culture encourages such narcissism in a variety of ways. It puzzles me why anyone over the age of 18 would think that the life details many post on FB would be of interest to anyone. Paradoxically, many FB-active people I know are shy and insecure. What's his name started with a good idea, a web place for incoming classmates to get to know one another. I think it's run its course, recent press reports say usage is falling. I feel lucky, most of the people I know in the FB-prime ages have better things to do and don't bother with it.

I joined Facebook a few months ago and like it a lot. I've re-connected with a lot of people who used to be in our church, and a bunch more from college and law school. These are people I always liked, but we grew apart over time, as people do. I probably wouldn't sit down and write them an email or a letter or call them, but Facebook provides just a bit of contact. I'm interested to see their kids and hear a little about their jobs, and I like the odd comment about something interesting in their lives. This is about the right amount of contact for a number of my cousins, too. I am fond of them, but we really only see one another at funerals. I like seeing a little more of them on FB. I don't send food or hugs, I take lots of quizzes but post few of them, and I block posts from anyone who plays "Mafia Wars." I have things set to be pretty private, too. I also love the "Six Degrees of Separation" aspect, where you discover that an acquaintance from work knows your kid's friend's mom.:)

Thanks, thirdkitchen - I forgot about the Stone Studio. Yes, they did our counters. I tried to send photos to all the small businesses that helped us and they've made the rounds for sure! :) BTW - can highly recommend them. They were great!! Thanks for the heads up, though!

Dani, I was baffled by Facebook too when I first joined as I was also used to MySpace. But now I find it much easier, and safer using Facebook. I go back and forth between the two now and if I can't find friends on Facebook I try one of three things. 1. I go to MySpace and look. If I find a friend on MySpace, I ask them to join my Facebook page. 2. Use the Friend Finder option on Facebook. You can put in your email address and password and it goes into your address book and tells you who in your addresses is already on Facebook and gives you the option to select everyone who is not on Facebook so you can invite them. 3. Find the kids of friends and family you've lost track of, contact them and ask for a way to reach their parents. I just reconnected with my brother and two old friends that way. Jodi-