<BR>All right, I preface this message by admitting that it might sound kind of corny. <BR> <BR>That said, here I go. I posted a message last Saturday. As I checked replies throughout the week, I noticed that twelve kind Fodorites provided their suggestions and comments. They were highly instructive and , as a result, we altered our plans for both travel and hotels in Italy beginning November 1st. <BR> <BR>I suppose I shouldnt be suprised at the generosity of fellow Fodorite travelers but, as a sometimes jaded NY'er, I was very touched that others took a genuine interest in my travel plans. You folks are really amazing. <BR> <BR>I suppose a lot of my response to this is as a result of the fact that I was one of those fortunate people who decided to travel to downtown Manhattan late on September 11th rather than going in early. I lost two folks who I knew and at least a dozen others others I know were fortunate to escape the WTC that day. <BR> <BR>Anyway, I guess I have been a bit reflective lately. I am trying to appreciate people and life a lot more. If life is truly a gift, then you Fodorites are surely one of the best presents one could receive. I hope we all remember to appreciate the help and guidance from our fellow "travel posters" here on this site. <BR> <BR>Hope this wasn't too self-indulgent. <BR> <BR>Thanks and regards <BR>Tim <BR>

Well said Tim---I totally concur.

Nicely expressed, Tim.

Tim, nothing self-indulgant or corny about it all. It's a pleasure to push your gracious message to the top. Have a wonderful trip!

How refreshing! Thanks, Tim.

Hi Tim-- <BR> <BR>That was wonderful, and well said. What you describe is what originally atracted me to this site a couple of years ago, and what keeps me coming back, even when the helpful folks seem to get buried in the sludge. <BR> <BR>I'm so sorry about your losses on 9/11, and I wish you well in adjusting. I here that just everyday life in New York is complicated these days, aside from the emotional impact. We wish you well! <BR> <BR>Robin

I hearily agree - what great gracious people you all are!

Here's to Tim and to all of us! <BR>Tim, it wasn't corny at all, but very thoughtfully said.These days kindness seems to be more recognized and appreciated, I know that I am more sensitive to the kind word or deed...and hopefully, I respond in kind.Wishing you all safe and well, M

Tim: <BR> <BR>If your message is "corny", then pass the salt and butter! Thank you. This is so timely and so nice - so heartfelt. <BR> <BR>I think we should all try and keep this message coming to the top to remind us of the goodness in people.

TTT!

while I appreciate what Tim has said I really don't think he wanted everyone to play "keepie up" just for the sake of it. Thanks Tim- but for goodness sake everyone else don't turn this into something Tim did not want- corn!!!

Tim Rourke, you are right! You have expressed sentiments I share also. <BR> <BR>For a person in search of European travel information and opinions one could do a lot worst than hanging around here. There is loads of info archived and, yes, people do continue to share a wealth of travel know-how. Yes, sometimes the BS is knee high and, frankly, too much for me to take, but I find that the good spirit and savvy experience of fellow travelers seems to mostly shine through all that. <BR> <BR>Mr. Rourke, please accept my condolences for your lost friends.

Hi Tim <BR> <BR>I too have been truly touched by the generosity of Fodorites after posting my first message a couple of weeks ago on this site asking for advice on my honeymoon destination. I have got some great advice and will be taking it up. There are so many genuine and sincere people out there in the world, and you are one of them. There is a lot of crap out there in Internetland, but something like the Fodors site shows just what a wonderful thing it can be. <BR> <BR>God bless you. <BR> <BR>Charlotte <BR>

Not corny at all, Tim. Very nice sentiments. Very sorry about the loss of the people you knew but also very glad that many others you knew survived. Hope you have a wonderful time in Italy!