Hi everyone. I am from the wonderful state of Kentucky (USA). Leitchfield, Ky. I am relatively new (about three years)to the world of minerals. And have a million questions! Mindat members have taught me allot so far. I have just purchased the Donald Peck "Mineral Identification" book and cd (as suggested). Seems like a great place to start!

I just went on my first "collecting" trip (November 2007), to Halls Gap, Ky. Cracking that first self-collected geode was a great experience. I will write an article about it here in the near future. Kentucky, though not recognized as a great state for collecting minerals, has allot to offer and a variety of minerals.

I received a severe neck injury recently that has left me unable to work (at age 48). When I mentioned it initially, the first response I had was "Well, that leaves you with plenty of time to spend with your minerals". And they have actually helped me in the healing process by filling some of the endless hours. And even in the beginning when I was extremely depressed, I still managed to crack a big smile when looking thru the 'scope! And as mentioned above, I still have the ability to get out for a couple of hours at times to collect too!

Thank you for the opportunity to be a member of such an outstanding group and for making me feel right at home!