I found it in 2000 or so when surfing around AOL. Someone on a board there mentioned "the real UConn board" and linked to it or said the name and I went and found it.
I've learned a lot here over the years. Going from a guy in his mid 20's to a guy in his early 40's in that time, I've grown up a lot, moved a couple of times, had kids and lost loved ones.
There is a lot of valuable information and advice available here and it is generally a very accepting place if you play nice and keep an open mind. The best advice and life lesson I've gotten from the Yard? There was a poster several years back who used to call his wife his "bride". I can't remember if we had an exchange about it or not but it stuck with me. I love my wife but she can really get on my nerves sometimes. In fact, there were a few times in the last 15 years where I truly thought we might not make it. I have continually found that if I think of her as my bride at the worst times that my levels of patience, empathy and love for her immediately come to the surface. For that alone, this place has made a big difference in my life, her life and the lives of our kids.
On top of that sappy item, there have been many times when I've been inspired by the charity and good will displayed here. Whether it was the donations for Coach Calhoun's send off gift to the UConn Health Center, a board member buying season football tickets for another poster that was tight on cash or all the other little charities supported here. In all honesty, I didn't donate to any of these causes. I donate almost all of my charitable funds to one particular cause that I truly believe in, the Children's Hospital that saved my youngest child as a newborn. I can't imagine my life without her, she is the ultimate Daddy's girl and the sweetest, smartest, most creative person I know. Nonetheless, the Boneyard's giving spirit is amazing.
So, I'm glad I found the Boneyard, and frankly, I don't know what the hell I'd do with my time without it. This place is a true community and offers a wealth of information, knowledge and camaraderie far beyond anything I ever could have expected.