Okay. I'm not those members that has been here for over 500 posts or so, but my newbie experience is still fresh on my mind.
The name's Julia, but I go by Julz more. I joined in March 2004 when I found this site by-I-dunno-how.
I joined right away hearing that the actual band members post here, and didn't read the FAQ right away or even used the Search button that much. I posted a little here and there, being a Lurker unsure of stuff. Two of my threads got locked in the first week, and the advice of using the Search button finally hit me in the head while backing off the wall behind me. Oh boy, does it help soooo much!
And like the rest, I was freaked about the Mods, but accepted that they were pretty busy and won't always have the time to hold my hand and introduce me to every little thing. This is the real world, where you're independent. It teaches you to get along with strangers, and to be respectful.
I also found it helpful to PM an older member for some answers on unanswered stuff that aren't in the Search or the FAQ or in any of the threads. Don't be afraid to ask when you've found nothing in all your resources.
Everyone here's nice. They won't bite. If they do, our Mods will be sure to hackle them in chains and train them with a muzzle until they learn to play nicely.
Take it from me: Soon you'll feel this place is a home that you might not have ever had, or an addition to your family.

Have fun, take care, and luvness forever,
~Julz~