In addition to particle's comments, remember that a node's reputation is based on the ratio of VotesSpentOnIt / TotalVotesCast. Consider this: if you use up your "extra" votes on nodes that didn't really deserve the votes, you are diluting the effectiveness of your own votes. They will count less because there are more total votes "out there."

I think one of the responsibilities of a senior-level monk is to help make the voting system work better (even if it means you get less personal benefit)... ;-)

Keep voting for the truly worthy posts. Sounds like you're doing fine... :-)

Russ
Brainbench 'Most Valuable Professional' for Perl