[Anguirel]

I've just noticed that yesterday-the Ides of March-was my Deathday.

I was first enthralled by the Downs...a very long time ago. 'Twas the Name Generators what did it. My first Elf name was Minyaloke...not so entirely different from reality...

Hanghobbit and Mad Libs were also favourites. This was so long ago that I hadn't even read the Silmarillion, I think...

Anyway-perhaps three years ago? Maybe more? I first lurked at the forums. It was a practice I kept up for a very long time. By this time I was a proper Silmaphiliac.

And then davem and Lalwende got engaged. And I took it as a Sign from Above...

It's been a wonderful year, everyone. I've known forums before, but none can begin to compete with this-such intelligence wedded (sometimes literally!) to invention, and yet such an inclusive and friendly atmosphere. This place justifies the existence of the ghastly old Internet.

Three cheers to you all...