i found sm about a year ago,and sure ive spent my money on tutorials, but hey was it worth it! when i got maya i spent 200 on books but when i hit a problem it would take me hours to work it out...if only i had someone stood at my shoulder to say just do it this way, one tutorial well made is worth ten books, thanks to the fantastic apache helicopter tutorial i did about three months ago , i made my own. i work full time in the real world , and dont get a lot of time to get into the forums here as much as i would like but like you i realy appreciate the posting and sence of community, when i am good enough or confident enough i will give back what i can...promise.:p