Hey gals, I got to thinking about this and I think it may be helpful. They do this on the DC forum that I belong to.
First off, let me say that by no means is this a way for us to pry into your personal business, but it does help us to know that you are ok. I see our group as some of the most caring people you could ever meet and know on the WWW and we obviously worry when we don't see someone for a while.
So to keep our little minds at ease, we can use the checking out method that lets folks know that you will be away for a bit. Or, maybe you choose to leave the forum, (I hate for anyone to leave) but if you do, I would rather know that then just not hear from you at all. I would always wonder.
All you need to do is make a quick post that lets everyone know that we will not see any activity from you for a bit. That way we don't worry about ya so much!!!!