I flew across-the-country in June (PHF-OAK and return) in a C-172 and I
exchanged pleasantries with -many- FSS folks - at least once for each of
the 26 hops.

'Tis my impression that they -are- more conservative now, very quick to
say "VFR Not Recommended". One even told me that the FAA's guidance
was, in effect, to provide such advice.

I had to press a few of them to give me specifics, to give me enough
information so I could decide for myself. Only once did I get a less
than satisfactory response.

Having said that, all across the country (northern route) and back
(southern route), the support provided by FSSs and ATC (RFF almost every
mile) was outstanding, and the attitudes of those on the other end of
the radio calls was invariable pleasant and helpful. Only when there
were obvious reasons for them to be busy did I not receive more than the
minimum level of support. Thanks to all those controllers.

george