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For several years now, I have been involved in a book club. Reading the book is an important aspect of being a part of this group, and since I have joined Helium I must admit, I am two months behind! I explain to the group, "I must read and rate articles on Helium so I can maintain the stars I have worked so hard to obtain.' They nod and smile.

No one understands, except another Helium member. I try to pick up the book, honestly I do, but the Helium voice is saying, "write, rate, write, rate."

"A penny saved is a penny earned', by Benjamin Franklin, is something to celebrate. I tell my friends; "I have forty cents in my account now". You guessed it they nod and smile.

I only joined a few weeks ago. I write in my sleep, dream of ratings and when I wake up I reach for my lap top to see how my ratings did overnight. I make a decision to keep this to myself, if I mention it to anyone, I am afraid they will just nod. and smile.

A couple of weeks ago, I logged on to Helium.com and before my eyes were four yellow stars. Granted they came gradually but how proud I was of them. Then one day, you guessed it, there she was, a sweet, bright little blue star right there by my name. My heart began pounding and she took my breath away.

And then...

Somewhere in the night, my little blue star was taken away. She was there when I said "goodnight Helium" but by morning she had left me. No "goodbye, see you later," just gone. I miss her. I understand clearly why she had to leave; I have read the User Guide.

I may be new at this but I want to compete with the great writers on this site. I envy those who sparkle with one, two or be still my heart; five pretty blue stars. I will read their work, learn from them; and find a new inspiration to carry on.

One of the best things about Helium.com is the Community boards. I chuckle when others wonder where their stars have disappeared to. I can't help but sympathize with them and hope for the speedy return of their charming little friend.

What is it about this site that becomes borderline obsessive? Is it the hundreds of topics to choose from? Is it the anticipation of what we might accomplish?

I have bills to pay, letters to write and a house to clean; not to mention a book to read! I need to make some phone calls and walk the dog and get some groceries. But what am I doing? You guessed it. I am sitting right here with my computer in my lap and loving every minute of it. Pretty soon, I may start to loose weight just from the lack of snacking. You can't eat when you're typing and it is just not good to get crumbs in the keys.

I have not discovered a program for people like me. There has been no mention on the Community boards where you can seek help for this sudden obsession. But I will make the effort to regain my life and clean the house again.

Maybe, just maybe tonight; my sweet, little blue star will find me again. Maybe tomorrow, I will begin that book.

Learn more about this author, Peggy Lindgren.
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