hi 'Chelle! You've invested a lot of time and energy here at RR...a lot of years, and you've given a lot. It IS important to evaluate what you're getting back for the time and energy you invest here. What is it you want back that you're no longer getting (or getting ENOUGH of)??? For me, I'm here to learn. I have so far to go. I want to improve my skills and become more adept at what i do. I want to be around people who challenge me to continually do better and to think about new things. I want to become better at expressing myself in an artistic way while increasing my technical skills. Getting feedback here and in my gallery, as well as looking at other people's art, fulfills those needs. I also feel like i belong here. Several years ago when i organized an art showing in college, my artwork was showcased...and it stuck out among my peers like a sore thumb. it was so different than everyone else's, and no one liked it or understood it. Here, i don't feel so different, and i'm comfortable in my own skin. You guys encourage creativity and exploration. i like that. and i like that we can laugh along the way. well...sometimes it's not ALL joy and laughter as this past week has shown. Despite the problems and conflicts that have occurred here, however, i do enjoy the fellowship, friendships, and commradarie here...it's like family. sometimes we fight like family too. :( i'm not sure of the game being played in the gallery which is tiring you; however, my experience has been that no matter what kind of social group you belong to, people play games. it's our nature. some games can really suck though!!!!!! :) as for recently events curtailing your enthusiasm, well, that's understandable. i guess none of us walked away unscathed. Anyway, now I'm the one who's rambling. What else is new?? LOL! just wanna say i've so much appreciated all you given here, Michelle. I can't even begin to tell you how much i have to learn from you as a photographer. It'll take years and years! I'm also just beginning to get to know the person behind the cam, and i gotta tell you, I think you're one helluva of person!!! I will admit that i'm selfish and hope you'll stick around! I would miss your art terribly, and i would miss out on continued learning from you!!! then on top of that, well, i would miss your presence here...your spirit. Like i said, I'm selfish!!! I think you're awesome and hope to get to know you better. But i do think it's important for you to evaluate exactly what it is you need here that you're not getting. and if you need some time "me" time, then by all means, take it. Let yourself go away and find whatever it is you need to be fulfilled, and then I hope you'll come back and share it with us!!! See how selfish i am!!!!! sorry! i just hope you won't go for good!!!!! Huge hugz, 'Chelle!!!!!!!! Hope you have a fantastic weekend full of sunshine and awesome photo opportunities!!! sheila