I have been shooting a longbow since I was 8 years old (Thanks Dad), and I am rapaidly approaching 44. I bought my first custom from Mike Ballenger (7 Lakes) 2 years ago, and 2 more from Bill Stroupe (Cold Mountain) very soon afterwards. At Mike's suggestion, I started visiting this site, and relized how limited my knowledge was, and how much more I could enjoy this sport that I love so much. I reluctantly joined, as I am considerably less than proficent with a computer, but I am glad I did, and should have done so sooner. I began aquiring, IMO, some special bows, and considerable knowledge and appreciation from fellow archers. Now, to the point-  
 I just completed building some sourwood and rivercane arrows, an undertaking I would have never attempted w/o reading some of the post here. Thanks to Snakewood3 and Pat B for opening up the world of primitive archery, and teaching me how to make my self-nock arrows. Pat B doesn't know how much help he was, but I searched and read everything I found, and most of the knowledge I took from that was from him. Snakewood3 has, and continues to be, a great inspiration as I admire his work and if I can produce arrows that are just a fraction of the quality of his, I will be content. More than that, I am glad to call him "friend".
 Thanks to Chromebuck, Jedimaster and Cyclic-Rivers for introducing me to Big River Bows. It would have been a bad thing indeed not to ever have shot a Big River.
 So many members have encouraged me both with varying aspects of archery to heightening my faith in the human spirit. Some of the topics here have been an inspiration, and have caused me to offer more compassion to my fellow man. I have always been thankful for the Lord's gift of the outdoors, but certainly a greater appreciation has been gained through the words, pictures and insights of the members of this site. Bud B and 2fletch are right there w/ the others, with the added bonus of having met them in person, which, in all likelyhood, would have never happened w/o this site. Also, thanks to moderators who make this site what it is.
 Especially, thanks to Mike at 7 Lakes for encouraging me to delve deeper.
Best Regards to All,
Brian K. Johnson

this is a great place to hang out thats for sure and if it aint been said. welcome to the site  

This is indeed a special place.  I hope to someday be able to help someone as much as I have recieved from the generous members of this site.

Indeed a special place with special people-    welcome home brother. Thank you for the kind words to those who have helped you.