Smoke! Al! I don't hang out here as much as I used to, much due to factors that have nothing to do with the site itself. I'm also not the most knowledgeable, nor the most tutored, nor the most artistic, nor the most seasoned "denizen" of these depths. I'm seldom interested in the "social media" aspect of the web either, preferring - in my older generation way - "actual" reality in interpersonal relations, rather than "virtual" reality.
And yet, I still check in from time to time to see what's happening with folks I've come to know and like and admire here, and often in real life as well - as I have with you, Smoke. I also come here to see if there might be any further need for whatever knowledge or wisdom I can offer ... and yet, it's not always clear that the interest is there, even when the need is ....
Although I've had some great times over the years enjoying off-topic stuff in the Tea House, (and whatever it was called before it was tamed into political-correctness with that silly monicker), my main reason for coming here over the years was only secondarily to make and grow some bonsai-related connections to people that I liked, and occasionally had met. Primarily I came here and stayed because it seemed I had a wee bit of experience and knowledge - and inspiring bonsai beauty - to offer to those interested in this fabulous hobby/art/obsession/addiction that has meant and offered so much in my life.
The contributions I have made here on BNut are contributions of which I am very proud, especially my four tutorials, my significantly extensive galleries, and my starting the "Five-Plus Year Progression" thread, as well as many lesser threads.
The fact that many have come here without even bothering to explore such real treasures that I and many others like you have shared, is sadly indicative of the corrupting lure of "Artificial Intelligence"... yes - "Artificial", indeed! Unfortunately, their trees will not be "Artificial" ... they will be living - in reality - or dead ... and they may be impressively beautiful and inspiring - or not ... independent of whatever their wishful-thinking/narcissism projects onto their reality.
Smoke! Enjoy your trees as the works of art that they are! They are the result of YOUR art, and YOUR application of that art - long and lovingly cultivated! If the site annoys you, let it go, and tend to your trees, and enjoy them immensely every chance you get! Most here have no idea what it would be like to begin to see a bonsai through your eyes, nor ever even hope to create one. You have lived this art fully, and still do so - how fortunate you are!!!
