when there is a lock on a topic, i know that means that one can no longer reply, but why is it there?  who puts  it in place? 

Admin locks threads when they either become heated or go way off topic.
:)

Admin do ....maybe if you read the Terms of Service you may get more of an idea ;)

Melody :)

so far, i cannot find the 'terms of service', but if i do i'll make sure to read it.  thanks for answering my question. 

Elija, Melody has put a link up for you, (where it says "terms of service") if you click on it, it will take you straight to them. :-)

oh duh, sorry, im a little slow this morning.  i don't know what time it is there, but im still drinking coffee here at about 7:30ish.  anyhow, i'll look it up!  lol

ah ha!  i have read it and it sound pretty normal, like all other forum rules. 

You're drinking your morning coffee!! I've just got back from work, am just about to cook evening dinner! :D