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Everybody Needs Somebody

© L.C. Dumke

Have you ever felt like there was no one around who really understood where you were coming from and what you were trying to do? I have -- actually, lots of times. But especially when I moved to a rural area (for the first time in my life) about 10 years ago. There were plenty of people around, and they were very warm, kind and friendly folks. But I couldn't seem to find anyone who shared my interest in art, poetry, theatre and ... you guessed it ... budget decorating.

I lamented the absence of like-minded friends for years, then something happened. I discovered the online world (CompuServe, then AOL) almost six years ago, when I was homebound, bored and very, very pregnant. Back in those days, I was amazed at the information I could find there. I mainly used the Internet to conduct research for articles I was writing and download shareware. I never imagined it would grow into my main source of information and, eventually, a great support network.

Five years ago I discovered a parenting chat room where I made wonderful friends, message boards where I could find crafting advice, an a few email discussion groups that have truly enriched my life. I've been able to connect with people who have supported me in everything from creative writing to job hunting to decorating to frugal living. I realized that whatever my interests, I may never have to go it alone again, thanks to the World Wide Web.

So whether you're looking for lively decorating conversation or the answer to a very specific decorating question, here are some good places to gather and connect with other people:

• Martha Stewart's Web site hosts a Meeting Place where you can choose from message boards, live discussions and even a session with the Queen of good things. If you don't mind the consistent Martha By Mail ads, you'll find lots of great information here.
• Women.com has many message boards, and several cover home, gardening,decorating and more. Other places to connect within the Women.com network include message boards and chat communities for Country Living, Good Housekeeping, and Victoria magazines.
• Decorator Secrets is a great site just for it's tips and article. So I was thrilled to find that in addition to great content and an e-mail newsletter, they also offer a forum called "Just Ask It!". You don't even need to login or get a username and password to use the forum -- just stop by and find what you need.

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