"I love the Internet"
Sure, until a neighbor, who knows I'm on the net, comes up with a request for me to research an apparently antique Hummel figurine last night.
"Huh?"
"You know, those little ceramic figures that are so popular. Can you find out how much it's worth? I got it from my grandmother."
"Um. Yeah, I guess." I'm a pushover.
Got some info on its markings and such on the bottom. Actually, until then, I thought "Hummel" was a brand of dishware.
Three hours later I learned more than I ever wanted to know about Hummel figurines.
Turns out it's possibly an actual original from about 1935, might actually be worth something. But man, with all the variations in markings and finish and color and whatnot, it would take a genuine expert to estimate arm's-length market worth.
Wrote up and printed out a report on it, will deliver it to her tonight.
Actually, the detective work was at least 30% fun, but this morning my mental muscles are sore. Sort of like not having ridden horseback in a while, The next AM you can count the forgotten muscles used in riding.
Don't let anyone know you own guns or are connected to the net. :D
Terry