I first learned about VAF when I stumbled on the Vernacular Architecture Newsletter -- a slim paper production back then -- in Cornell’s architecture library.  In 1985 I attended my first VAF conference, in San Francisco.  What a thrill to find a community of people who shared a common language, an engaged curiosity about buildings, and a delight in one another’s company!  Since then I have attended 24 annual meetings.  VAF has for me been a steady source not only for intellectual inspiration but for friendship.  Over the years I have served on the VAF Board; co-edited Perspectives in Vernacular Architecture; and organized the 2004 meeting in Pennsylvania.   It has been a pleasure to give back to the organization and I look forward to serving the VAF again in a second term on the Board.