What a touching letter CJ.
I can see where you're coming from about people being open and helpful amongst the forum. I too have stayed with people i hardly knew and have also had people stay here with me. (Looking forward to Dave Hancock staying in a couple of weeks.) Seem to always end up very good friends by the end of the visits too. Sorry southerners, but i do find the Scottish particularly accomodating and welcoming. I don't know if it's a closer knit community amongst the northern dancers or just that northerners do tend to be friendlier and more up for a party, but i have always felt at home when north of the border. Don't want to upset my southern counterparts as there are lots of friendly dancers here too.
Just find it takes longer to get to know them.