Apparently there was a problem with the server or the SQL server database, or whatever the thing that stores forum stuff is called, that caused a serious malfunction in the operations of the site. Or so the moderators have said on another thread, ie the Coffeehouse thread. Thankfully though, the wonderful and magnificent Admin has worked feverishly to restore the function of the site and now we can resume enjoying it.
No site can work wonderfully 100% percent of the time and I consider Admin's work on keeping the forums running smoothly a necessary and well appreciated job that we should be grateful for. If not for him, we would most likely not have this site at all. I, for one, am very grateful.
Patience is a virtue after all.