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On the way to work I cross the busy Washington Street. I rarely have to wait because people stop to let me cross, I am always thankful and smile gratefully.

Most drivers seem to appreciate the small town atmosphere, there is no foot bridge or tunnel for me to go on and so we both must endure a moment of pause when we cross paths.

The internet offers chances to pause and appreciate each other.

Many Comments
On the Knight Fire news stories people have been thanking those out in the rugged, smokey and in many ways difficult terrain fighting the fire. Our most sincere thanks goes out to them as well.

On Social Network Sites
A Facebook status update like "Had a busy day with the kids" can be followed posts from friends that are supportive and even funny. There are applications that allow you to send a gift, smile, or a hug. In the farming games people send each other trees and animals. They may be virtual gifts, and I may not want to play that game, but it is the thought that counts!

Customer Support
When I receive a phone call or email with questions about posting an event, a classified ad, or yellow page listing, it is always satisfying to show people how to use the features we offer online. You could call me the Mother of myMotherLode and I adore all of its features.

Twitter
myMotherLode has a twitter account as well. Most of the "tweets" are links to the local news stories we post online. But like all social networking tools it offers a way to meet and connect with people far and near. I am always grateful for a local twitter follower.

The other day a twitter user named SolsticeGIS tweeted: I am VERY grateful for your real-time reporting. @mymotherlode @thepinetree

Essentially she broadcast her appreciation to all the people who follow her (the @ provides a link to who she is talking about) It really made my day to recieve such a compliment, and now I know it is a new way that I can show appreciation.

In this fast paced world with its heavy share of depressing, sometimes frightening news it is important to balance it with good and positive news. Especially in this economy where jobs can be hard to keep and the work is twice as much for less money a thank you can go a really long way.

We love the Mother Lode, thanks for making it such a wonderful place to live.