Hello there, my name is Gertrude (but you can call me Gertie for short, sweetie). I am your virtual Information Officerat the newly opened DollObservers.com Welcome Centre... However if you ask me I am very much real but apparently it's all the rage to be 'virtual' these days.... but there we are!

Also I just wanted to clear something up before we get going: I assure you I know how to spell! It's just that the boss here is English and he insisted we use the British spelling of center... ahem, I mean centre. I just wanted to get that cleared up, as I am a stickler for these things...

Anyhow where was I? Oh yes... the Welcome Centre is your first stop as a brand new member to the community and serves as your guide to all the features and news all in one place.

If you are an existing member it would be lovely if you could stop by to welcome the newbies and you can also use the centre to help you if you get stuck using any of the features.

So without further ado; here are some essential links and downloads to help you get started:

• Download the Navigating the Network Guide so that you can print it out and keep handy!
• Check out the New Users Guide
• Familiarise yourself with our Community Guidelines (nothing heavy, I promise!)
• Say hello and introduce yourself in the New Member Forum
• Join our popular Theme of the Month group and consider entering our photo contest (you could win yourself $50!)
• Join us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest