there are several ways to reply to a post. one: you just click "reply" and post your response; two: you 'quote' , or highlight the part you are responding to and 'quote' (i always have to delete the parts i don't want included); or you can click on the person's name and leave them a personal reply on their home page or in a Private Message (PM).

you don't have to be friends with people to reply in the forums, but sometimes people close their home pages to all but friends. you will be told you are 'not authorized to post' , if that's the way it is.

i find it's good to use the Thank You function key to let people know i read their post, or their reply to mine, and felt some connection with them.

it's good to have you being active, welcome~
Gus