Custom Controls: How to tell if it is being placed on the form for the first time?

Which even should I use to see if my control if being placed on a form for the first time? I want to do some error checked and I want to size it properly. UserControl_Initialize is called a few other times as well. Is there a better event to use?

Now sure if this is of any help. will show a messagebox as soon as you add the control to the form.

Private Sub UserControl_Show()
On Error Resume Next
If Not (UserControl.Ambient.UserMode) Then
MsgBox "design time"
End If
End Sub

The InitProperties event only occurs when the usercontrol is first sited on a form. It does not fire at runtime.

The Initialize event is always the first event to occur when an instance of the control is created, design time and runtime.

But will InitProperties be called every time the project is loaded? I would think so. I guess I should go test it though ;).

Thanks guys. I'll see what I can come up with.