yes.. some good replies.. i personally have tried some of the other sites, it's either much the same or they don't accept my style of work & even though i no longer post here i still hold a certain fondness for the place as well as bitterness.. you have the "eye" for compo, know the technical & that's a big part of what it takes  & why you were accepted at P-G (which btw is the only place i have been successful in selling my work)  ..the rest is just frosting..  it's become much the social scene & i'm hardly one to talk but feel i have come full circle... a higher level can be achieved.. still a lot of talent & knowledge here.. after all it's quality over quantity, being inspired, sharing & seeing others improve as well as yourself & having the confidence in knowing you are good  (& that's if by saying "out of your depth" means not good enough)

edit: oh & fun.. ddid i mention fun? ..as well as being serious.. when it ceases to be fun then what's the point.. this isn't the be all & end all.. lol