You got me on a couple of those questions. I don't have a gallery on here, nor have I shared more than a couple of photos of my trees. I'm not ashamed of them - but after posting the first one and asking for help, the lack of response left me feeling like the tree was not worthy of it. I realize now, there probably wasn't much that would have helped the tree. I had accidentally over fertilized it, and the roots were burned. It had a slow death. The sad thing is - it had the most potential of any of my trees. The trunk and nebari were incredible.
I have numerous bonsai books, several magazines, and always read things I can to improve my knowledge on the subject. Until I got on this forum, I thought my trees were pretty nice. A lot of the older books show bonsai that would be considered a "stick in a pot," by most of the folks on here. My concept of the art of bonsai continues to change, the longer I am involved in it. I am in awe of the talent and insight that is shared here.
I don't lack the motivation for competition. I just know that at this point in time, I don't have any trees that I could compete with. I can't wait for Spring, when the local nurseries will be loaded with lots of stock to choose from.
You and Walter made a good point about the money spent on the endeavor of bonsai. I'm up there in the range, that I better darn well be in this for more than a simple hobby, or I've tossed away a
lot of money for nothing! I have quite an array of pots, professional grade tools, and miscellaneous supplies. I've loaded myself up with everything but the raw stock to work with. But, I will follow one of my favorite sayings...
"onward through the fog!"
BTW Dan - I like the way you think about things.
Marsha