Hello Caedesians!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SURPRISE FOR CAEDES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is a special thread to honor the GREAT CAEDES, himself! This project is initiated by myself, KIEFER/Keith, and NATHAN/ NMSMITH. It is to initiate a special tribute for all of us in the Caedes website community to show our respect and appreciation to the man who made this great and classy site possible. That scary eye guy.....CAEDES...
{ whispers to Keith and Nathan:"is his real name a secret"?}

I know what this site has done for ME, and I hear many people here talk about this site like it is home, so what better way to thank Caedes, than a tribute? This is a surprise thread...he will be unaware of this until he sees this....{ he might see I opened the thread and never read it at all / lol} but eventually he will see it.

We'd like to invite all Caedesians to honor Caedes, by VOLUNTARY contributions....and by RESPECTFUL COMMENTS on this thread, and invite all to please work on a heart-felt art project and post it in this category { new images/ CAEDES. There is no deadline.
It is understood that everybody may not be able to make a financial contribution, so please do NOT feel obligated...{again-Caedes does not know we are doing this and if he does not stick his evil eye in here then maybe Keith, Nathan and I can split the loot 3 ways....{ we'll buy you all doughnuts..:)

All kidding aside: It costs a lot to run this website! You can bet the fees from members do not even touch down on the over-head...and yet Caedes gives this site and his time, so please consider showing your appreciation { we did!} The paypal link and sending the donation works fine, and they do give a receipt, so never fear! :)

CONTRIBUTIONS WILL NOT BE CREDITED AS MEMBERSHIP FEE PAYMENTS. {unless requested :) THIS IS AN APPRECIATION GIFT TO CAEDES!

In paypal, simply send your donation to: CAEDES@CAEDES.NET

You do not have to be a paypal member to make a contribution. If you have a problem with paypal, I can send you a paypal invoice....so pm me with your email address if you need to and you can pay with a credit card. If I invoice you, it will be directed and payable direct to Caedes acct { as I figured out how I can invoice from mine and make payable to him} :)

Expect a few words from the talented Kiefer and NMSMITH.....and again, we welcome all "RESPECTFUL" comments on this thread for Caedes! Please do NOT send your comments of appreciation to Caedes by PM, as he would maybe choke the life out of me for flooding his mailbox. He probably is just looking for a reason to drag me off his site by the ear....:) Thanks! MADMAVEN

<CLICKHERE><


CAEDES.....he's a real cool guy....
Caedes....the great Eye in the Sky..
Sometimes he's grouchy.....and looks kinda mean...
But he runs the classiest site I've ever seen. :)

I ran across the Caedes site in 2004 while looking for some computer desktop wallpapers to add life to my computer lab at Utah State University. I was instantly impressed and signed on. The site has inspired me to get back to doing art - a love I put on the back shelf for quite a while. The community here was friendly and very helpful and encouraging. Unlike most other wallpaper sites, the images were tasteful and beautiful.

Like Terri, I'm very grateful to Caedes for creating the infrastructure that makes this all possible. My sincere thanks to Caedes and the many fine people who make this a great place to be a part of.

With Terri and Keith, I'd like to encourage you to do something nice for Caedes today - a kind comment on this thread - a piece of art dedicated to Caedes - or a donation to Caedes to help him keep all this going.

Again, thanks to you all. You are wonderful people. Sincerely, Nathan Smith

I was introduced to Caedes about a year and a half back, and have never regretted the move....I have made some marvelous friends, and everyone treats each other as if have known them for years..it is so very user-friendly!...

I have to admit, the very few times that I have had 'problems' they have been sorted! immediately, thanks to all of the MODS and the 'One-eyed-Monacled One'!....

I have introduced some my own 'Pals' to Caedes and even they are impressed at the way it is run!......It only leaves me to say a very grateful thank you from Wor-Bob and long may Caedes 'reign'

The Owd Sod himself--Bob

I found Caedes to be a pleasant, respectable artist-oriented website after growing tired of the other art/wallpaper sites that sport mostly nudity...gore...animae (I'm REAL sick of that!)...sleazy celebs/music personalities (Equally despise the high volume of that - Just how many drug-induced-strike-a-pose images of J-Lo or Mariah do you really NEED?)...and rap/hate poetry with plenty of four-letter-words...That's why after only six months here...I've posted well over a hundred submissions...

Quadruple Kudos to its Creator Praetor....

Sincerely,
Jhihmoac The Maniac (Ron)

This was a great idea. I have been a member of Caedes for less than 2 months. Can't remember how I came across this website, I only know I am very glad I did. The first thing I noticed was it's complexity and yet with all that complexity it was very "user friendly". I could browse through hundreds of quality images from all over the world, download anything I favored, leave comments, meet people, gain friends and on and on. To me it was like being a child in a candy store. All this at a price that was music to this Scotchman's ears ... zilch! If all that were not enough Caedes allowed me to post some of my own pictures requiring that I merely cast a few votes on other artists work. "Is this man Caedes for real?" ... I thought. Well, he is for real and I for one am very thankful he had the ambition, talent, and I have to assume the patience of a saint to bring this website to what it is today. He's strived to make the site one that is "family oriented" and I think that holds true. Not a small matter in today's world and with a global internet open to cultures so vastly different. He's gone out of his way in trying to make it as fair as possible to all those showing their artwork on the site. So my hat is off to Caedes and the staff he has helping him run this oasis for artists and wannabe artists of all types. If I have any regrets about my Caedes experience, it's that I didn't find this website much earlier than I did. Perhaps the best way to make my point as to just how inviting Caedes has made this website ... consider the fact this Scotchman became a paying member and opened his wallet to cover the rest of this year. (Took 3 visits from Terminix to rid the house of moths) A small price to pay for the enjoyment I receive as a member of Caedes. So come on you guys ... Let's hear it for Caedes ... all together now ... "LONG LIVE THE KING ... LONG LIVE THE KING"

I stumbled across Caedes by accident and it has held me hostage ever since. This site is truly like a family to me. I've met some very dear people here from all over the world. Not only does this site have the BEST photographs and graphics it also gives us an opportunity to "talk" with each other which is really great. I raise my glass to you Caedes for creating a truly unique site that I'm sure is the envy of all the others. The word is spreading fast my friend. Thank you so much- Eileen

I, like muggsy, am new to the site. It's barely been a month, and i've already seen growth in my own work, and i've had the priveledge and pleasure of seeing work by artists far better than me.

I had come to the site after a suggestion by animaniactoo (cat) when I had expressed an interest in discovering whether i had 'it', that is, whether a pursuit of photography was still worth it for me, or if i was doomed to be just another 'snapshooter'. and no offense to the member by that user name.

Upon coming here, I've had the chance, through seeing other work, and through advice ( most of it friendly) to explore what my own capabilites are.

Had it not been for this site, who knows, my love for photography might have sunk back into dormancy.

So thank you, Caedes, for not only providing a place to find some of the most awesome images, but also to have an outlet for everyone to share their work, and grow from the output of others.

Let's here it for Caedes!

I never felt like my photos amounted to much except through my own eyes. Then I stumbled across Caedes while searching the internet one day. There is a friendship here that is different from the norm and I feel fortunate to have found these new friendships. It is totally addicting and it takes me to a never never land that makes me feel like my photos are really good. Thanks to the Caedes friends that critique them, like them, don't like them, all of it is a joy. They have given me new ideas, new ways, new challenges while at the same time, touring the world through the eyes of others. Thanks to you Caedes for making this possible. A toast to you for bringing such a great community of friends together. Cheers. Anita

I used to spend a lot of time on other wallpaper and photo sites but after finding Caedes.net 4 months ago, I spend 90 % of my internet time here.
All the people I have run across are wonderfully talented and very helpful. The interaction is what I value most.
Here's to a man who had a vision of what a truly classy/family oriented website is all about.
Mr. Caedes I deeply appreciate the work you have done with your website. And your choice of Mods. has been outstanding. No brag...just fact..
This is definately a MOST excellent place to be...Many thanks to all who keep this site running smoothly....Mr. Bill :-O

I'm pretty much a newbie here at Caedes and I wish I'd known about it long ago. Although I have to admit, I no longer have a life outside Caedes and my husband is wondering why I have that glazed over look every night when I come to bed these days. A friend told me about Caedes because she knew, as a photographer, I like to get feedback for my work. There is no place like Caedes. The "friends" I've already accumulated are honest, funny and most of all encouraging and I love the diverse ages - some are in their thousands and some have not even been born - their age says 0. While I do sometimes scratch my head at what some call art, I've also had my horizons expanded by a long stretch and am now looking at everything with a completely different set of eyes. I look forward to going to the voting booth every day. What I once wouldn't have looked twice at, I'm now finding real value in. So I'm learning and growing every day, something one at my age doesn't really expect a lot of. It's healthy to keep the mind active and this definitely activates my imagination. I also like that Caedes is a "clean" environment and I don't ever have to worry about seeing something explicit or offensive. I love the honor system at Caedes and feel safe sharing my work without worrying that someone will trespass on copyright. I tell everyone about Caedes and my only worry now is that too many will find out about this great treasure and the server won't be big enough to handle all the uploads and the whole thing will explode!!!! But I'm not paranoid or anything. Thank you, Caedes, whoever you are (I really wish I knew more - is it a person's name? or a word - which isn't in the dictionary cuz I looked...) for creating this incredible forum for us to come together and share our craft, and even sometimes our lives. Love and cyberhugs, anne hughes Vive Le Caedes!

I never knew how much fun photography could be until I found Caedes.net. Not only have my photographic skills increased, but I have learned so much more. I have fallen in love with fractals, made friends and get to laugh everyday! The members on this site are the friendliest and funniest anywhere on the web!! Caedes has become an everyday part of my life that I enjoy totally and look forward to!!
Thank You Caedes for creating such a wonderful gathering place for fantastic artists and great friends!

Smiles,
Dot

I bumped into the site while on a hunt for wallpapers - it was a lucky 'bump'! I'm on about ten different non-art-related sites, but none of them have the quality of Caedes, and I spend the majority of my time here. I used to be obsessed with reading the news in the morning - I haven't even touched the papers in several months due to rushing over here first thing in the morning! I always keep my laptop next to me at night so I can check on here in the wee hours!

I first used the site to share my photography and a few traditionals, but over the months, I started dabbling in fractals and a few digital illustrations, and now I'm thinking of going into 3D.

I've always been into the sciences/tech fields, but I've had a great love for the arts also. When I first became active here, I had zilch knowledge about anything to do with the art here. This site and the people on it have taught me to develop an artistic eye better than any art course could have!

Thank you Geri for creating this website, and for all that you do for the site!

Let Caedes stand strong for decades, centuries, millenia, however long the internet lasts!

I would like to add my personal thank you too! To someone who has created this network of people all supporting each other and encouraging growth in their own particular talents - artistic and photography. I came across this site, like a lot of others, purely when searching for a photograph at Christmas to put on my desktop. I found that in the holiday section, but then started to look around and instead of spending 10 minutes here I was captivated and stayed for about 3 hours - I was pretty amazed at the talent and had never come across such a gallery of exceptionally beautiful photographs. I added it to my favourites. I was already a member at an online club, helping to manage it, so I did not give this site my full attention at the time. I found it again in my favourites when looking for a new desktop - that was in March. Since then, I have never looked back. I visit here every day and I have made some incredible friends from around the World. I receive so much encouragement and support from those friends and have renewed my interest in photograph and am improving all the time. soooo I just want to add my thanks Caedes - this site is unique! Patti

I am also new to Caedes -it has been mentioned on BBC "Click" program (UK) about 2 months ago. I have seen many a site asking to "share your pictures", but after a page or two I would go away without joining! Yet I was desperate to find outlet for my work and just that simple sharing of creativity which is the most important attribute of Caedes community. I have been ill for a long time and my interest in graphics has dwindled down to occasional look at one of Fractal engines and making floating objects for my screensavers. Mostly I was playing Poker for points - which amounts to ZERO content! NOW - needless to say - I have not had game in weeks! Thank you Caedes, and also for restoring my faith in WWW - it is NOT full of banal-to-horrible places - the are niches for nice people too! And truly I could not wish to visit a nicer place than Caedes site - there can't be one... I am not just happy to join - I am "Over the Moon"!
Anna Wallace

I stumbled across Caedes by accident as I was searching for a special cake recipe. I accidently typed in cades.net instead of cakes. I thought it would be worth checking out & boy was I right. I was just beginning to learn photo-editing & a few months earlier I had downloaded Terragen. From the bottom of my heart I thank you Mr. Caedes for bringing this wonderful site to everyone & I appreciate all your hard work with making this all possible. Congratulations. Sherree

I bumped into this site accidentally about 3 months ago, in my seemingly never-ending quest for unique, high quality images for both personal viewing enjoyment and for use as screensavers and as desktop wallpaper. Upon finding Caedes, I've never looked back at any of the other sites that I used to visit, nor do I intend to. I appreciate the many friends that I've made thus far, and look forward to meeting many more as time progresses! The only problem I have with regard to Caedes is that it tends to lure me away from my job more often than I should let it - oh well...
With that said, I'd like to express a heartfelt Thank You to Caedes himself (Praetor Maximus), as well as to the Artists, Caedes Cadre members, Aediles, Praetors, and Consuls. Thanks to all for your kind comments on my submittals, and mostly thanks to all for having the "guts" to put themselves out there in the form of their own submissions!
My mornings would simply not be complete without Caedes to look forward to!

I found Caedes.net on the Kim Komando, Site of the Day, newsletter. I definitely owe her a debt of gratitude, as I do little web surfing, with the exception of researching Photo Editing programs, and Utilities.
Like others before me, I have visited a few photographic sites, even registered, but only visited, occasionally.
Finding Caedes, was like coming home. Wonderful people, great photography, traditional art, and other art forms I knew nothing about, but am learning, with the help of other members.
Caedes is, without a doubt, an Addiction.
But what an addiction,it is. All HIGHS, no lows, All FREE, or next to Free, All the Rehab help you could possibly want, AND IT'S ALL PERFECTLY HEALTHY and LEGAL
Many thanks, to the Founder, and Volunteer Staff, who feed and nurture this wonderful addiction.
You've given us a second home, to come home to.
The BEST D--N(darn) Site on the Net.
Congratulations, and a heartfelt, Thank you.
Doug.

WHAA-AT? .. (*he says grouchily*) .. I just woke up .. (*stretches*) ... I don't remember when I actually discovered the site .. I was killing time, waiting for Amerigo Vespuci to get back to the ship from his exploratory wanderings on the new continent, when I disobeyed orders and poked around a clump of pine trees .. there it was .. in blinking NEON lights .. Caedes Dot Net (and grill) ... the *geri man was the only one posting artwork to the site at the time and I saw that it was good

I CAN tell you that I created my first account on June 13 of oh two! .. and that this account has a whopping karma of 3 (*blush*) .. All of which comes from recent months when I was revving the engine to keep the battery from dying .. I missed most of 2004 due to my browser not playing nice with the site .. after a couple months of re-caedesying I started to fool myself into thinking that I, too, could walk among these people and eat of their fruits and cheeses, maybe not as an equal, but as the cabana boy sneaking leftovers off the plates.

The community here has always been easy-going, giving, and generous and nobody better exemplifies these qualities than the man at the helm .. He has allowed us to play in his sandbox while he has singlehandedly herded the neighborhood cats and kept them from spoiling the venue. And for that I am grateful .. (*tips hat*)

THANK YOU oh mysterious one without out a name or face

Dear Caedes, i recently started photographing and wanted to share my pictures with others. I looked a long time for a site at witch to upload and heared from my sister, "jackygroen", that you had a great site with very nice pictures and people. After i uploaded my first i got so many nice and helpfull comments that i sticked with it! It's addictive and stimulating and most off al hellpfull! For that i want to thank you a lot and allso the members who help me ( special Terri for her warm welcome).
greetings, Wim from Holland

A wonderful friend of mine kept sending me all these really great photos and digital art images, I finally asked where they came from and was given the address.. I dabbled in all sorts of art and craft, when I came on here I was amazed at the quality of the work, so became a member... My photography was basic the usual family snapshots and holiday pics, seeing all the great work encouraged me to buy a new digital camera and set off to take "real" photos, the feedback, the tips, the encouragement were fantastic that now I actually look for angles, lighting, etc.. then I was curious as to how the graphic artists did "their thing", made some wonderful friends who had the patience to show me HOW since then my work has improved so much that i'm even entering comps and selling some...

This site is the best user friendly site I have come across, the community is like family and I value all of the friendships I have made over the years some have turned into my best friends...

I think The Boss is amazing to keep this site to the quality it is, he not only has a very hectic "real" life, but he also oversees this life.. the time he takes to upgrade, organize, put up with the temper tantrums and endless questions is a credit to this special person...

Thanks Caedes for inventing your site which has gone from a personal hobby to one of the world's best sites...

this forum has been a great one for me. never before had i put my photographs out for people to judge. i have enjoyed the ease of manipulation within the site. if i only could learn to make a link i would find nirvana. i appreciate the fact that we must all use restraint in our comments and expect to be chastised if we don't. i think the discussion groups are wonderful. one can pretty much find out about anything. lastly, even though i could go on and on, i appreciate the fact that there are those willing to find the crooks who steal our pictures. all in all i'm happy to be a member. jen

I was introduced to Caedes by a Kim Komando "Cool Site of the Day" email. I'm gonna give that gal a big ol' kiss someday for tipping me off to this great site! lol I have seen so much amazing art, found so many good friends, and had so much fun posting my own photos on here! I went to the Caedes website strictly to look for a desktop background or two, but ended up coming back again & again. Pretty soon I registered with the site, and then finally got up the courage to post a photo or two. Took a little heat at first for the date stamps on them. LOL But thanks to a now great friend of mine (THANK YOU TERRI-Ms.MADMAVEN!!! ) who kind of took me under her wing & showed me how to do them up right, I now post at least once a day. Between her & much encouragement from a lot of others (some from the very get-go thanks EILEEN- FOO FOO!!) I feel I'm now a part of this great "online community"! My photos have improved remarkably due to feedback & advice offered up here on Caedes. My initial goal of a 75 c-index was something I thought I would never see, but have since met or surpassed several times! My list of friends has grown considerably too & it has been a privilege and an honor (not to mention one HELL of a lot of FUN!!) getting to know you all! What a talented bunch you all are!!

A huge THANK YOU to Caedes for making this site available for us free or darn near free if you choose to contribute! This website is amazing as is your generosity!! My only regret is that it's been around so long & I only discovered it in February of this year! Thank you sir..it's been a great ride so far and I'm sure it will only get better with time! My hats off to you, Caedes!

A Big Thank you Caedes, for a wonderful site!! Not only is it a great place to learn, it also has a wonderful community spirit.
02/21/06 9:30 PM - I first came here, following a link on another site to 'a great place for wallpapers' I have been back every day since and have learned such a lot, from the willing and helpful folk here, many of whom I am proud to call 'friend'. The work seen here is a joy to view and an inspiration to improve.
My PhotoShop and PSP programs no longer languish unused, and I see things with different eyes, appreciating more my wonderful adopted country and seeking 'good shots' to show it of. Every time I see 'Artist' beneath my name I smile. I am not one, but I still like seeing it.

I have even learned that DOF does not mean Dear Old Friend :)

Eve

A tribute or a roast? Dang, it sez tribute and here I was wanting to razz the ‘ol boy a bit. :~P

Well back in I’d say October 2005 I googled Caedes for the first time. 8~O He hasn’t let me leave since. I luv changing my desktop wallpaper and I really liked those weird, abstracty things, which I now know are called fractals. I popped in from time to time and found lotsa great fractals as well as other art works and photography. My wife & I have two adorable kitty kats and I’d been trying to take pics of them with my old camera, a Canon Snappy AF that I got when I was a teenager. My wife left it out and I guess one of the boys played with the strap and knocked it to the floor, rendering it useless. I decided maybe a new hobby was in order as I currently didn’t have one at the time, so I bought a digital camera and started snappin’ away. During the winter months I also started inquiring as to how fractals were made; I DL’d Apop and started playin’ with that as well, I couldn’t believe I was creating these neat-o things.

It didn’t take long to start meeting wonderful people on the site. Everyone is so genuine and fantabulous!! I have friends all over the world now and I thank Caedes.net for that opportunity. I feel like my photography, Apop and Photoshop experience have gradually gotten a little better since I started out and I again thank Caedes.net as well as all my friends and family here for their continued support, encouragement, tips ‘n’ tricks…I’ve learned so much, yet I know it’s just the tip of the iceberg and can’t wait to learn more & more everyday. This is the best community of people anywhere!!

Sure, I’ll take a chocolate with sprinkles please…huh? Oh, donation…I thought it said donut. What are we gonna buy Master Caedes? Some shiny new guitar strings? Maybe a new BBQ grill? Oh, oh, I got it...a lap dance, who doesn’t like one of those? I tried to make a PayPal donation of 1.3 million dollars (US), but it was rejected? ~looks in checkbook…oh, I see the problem…I’ve been multiplying instead of subtracting all these years, dang~ Of course I will make a donation, anything for the site!!

~raises bottle of scotch in the air~

Here’s to a Grand, Exciting, Ritzy, Inspiring site!!

Well, back in May 2005 I was looking around for free wallpapers just like a lot of others here. I came upon this site and decided there were some very good artists. After a while a very good friend of mine, Daddyrumpkins (Stephen) said to me that he noticed I liked fractals and that I should give Apophysis a try. Long story short, I found that I could actually do something with it. I've since tried many other programs and have frankly enjoyed the hell out of it. So I'd just like to say thanks to Caedes for the chance to find out that I do actually have artistic abilities. I've also made some very good friends, some of them, the best people I've ever known in fact. So thanks once again boss! You deserve it for running such a fine site..=)

Here's a little experiment that turned into a tribute/promotional image for caedes. I wish it had turned out a little better but nevertheless it is a token of my appreciation in small measure of how much this site means to me. It has been a big part of my life since I joined in June of 2004, having also visited here numerous times in 2003 even before joining. My first uploads weren't much to speak of but thanks to the fine art and encouragement of many good people here, and the open door policy of caedes, things have improved somewhat for me and I have also discovered some new interests along the way. The contests, discussion boards, and willingness of caedes to let us suggest changes that he takes into account are all a big plus and make this the best and friendliest art site on the net...I have checked out others but this one beats 'em all hands down...as for 'The Man' himself, I have had few dealings with him but when I have, I found him quick and willing to address my concerns and for that I also thank him...to top it all off, the illusive 'man of mystery' is quite a cutie pie if you ever get to see his picture, lol...many thanks caedes (Geri) for everything...I am sooo glad I found this site and hope it goes on and on and on and on....btw, I sure hope that one day there will be alternative methods to financially contribute...me and the credit card companies parted company a long time ago so paypal is not an option for me but if other methods are ever introduced I would love to contribute.

Thanks everyone (particularly madmaven, nmsmith, and KEIFER) for this thread. It is certainly much more pleasant than seeing the 15th thread on what color and smell the c-index should be changed to. The only objection that I have is with madmaven's suggestion that any donations not go toward Cadre memberships. The Cadre was made for those who contribute to the site and these donations are certainly such a contribution. I certainly want to give out Cadre memberships, so don't think that you are somehow being a drag on the site if you want the donation applied to your Cadre membership. Thanks again.

Awesome idea guys and dolls! Caedes rocks ... I stumbled upon in purely by accident looking for some cool abstract art to put on my large flat screen at work, joined up, observed from a distance for sometime then thought "why not"......... and with the ease of learning to use the site and some encouragement from other members I feel quite at home here. It is a terrific outlet for my creativity and a fun way to interact with other people/artists! A big ole Thank You to the founders and churning gears behind the scenes here at Caedes as well as a thanks to the fellow members that welcomed me so warmly!

I've been hanging around here now for just over two months, but it seems like forever. I did a google from the lab where I work looking for more interesting wallpaper for our new Windows based computer system and as fortune would have it, I stumbled upon Caedes.
Now, all eleven monitors in our lab sport a wallpaper from Caedes and the screensaver is a slideshow of Caedes images. Yes, of course, some of my shots are there too. Many of the people I work with have asked where I found those wallpapers and I send them here. Many of the workers weren't all that Windows savvy, but they have figured out how to change the wallpaper and when I come to work, I am surprised to see a different Caedes image posted on different monitors.
Caedes is a good place to go because there is much beauty in the images presented and much genuine respect among the artists who post them. I especially like Caedes because I get to see parts of the world or things I might otherwise not have the opportunity to see and I also have the opportunity to share with others the things that I have been blessed to see.
I had a bent towards photography since buying a digital camera to capture images of the new parts of the world I had never been to but was about to see. I wanted to share them and keep them for myself to remember those places always.
Caedes pushed me over the edge and into the full stream of 'light writing' that has become an avid avocation now. My photos have dramatically improved in a short time because Caedes provided the testing grounds for me to discover what was good about my images and what was not so good. It gave me the opportunity to more closely examine others work and find words to explain what I was looking at or what the artist wanted me to see. I found encouragement and friendly banter about what could be different or what aspects were better than others. I got tips and suggestions and help from others who had been there before me and could make suggestions that worked for me.
This web site owes it's success to the wonderful people who come here every day, the ones who post and the ones who just want to see beautiful images or just get wallpaper or whatever they derive from being here. It is successful because a group of people called mods stay on top of the hundreds of images that are uploaded each day and insure that things run smoothly and most of all Caedes is successful because a young man who calls himself Caedes had a purpose, a vision and a quality of soul that comes from a good heart and was given a gift of inspiration to make this a welcoming, nurturing environment for beauty and harmony to take root and grow. Thank you sir.

I found this site a little over 3 years ago looking for a change in desktop art. I found a whole lot more than that. There have been people come and go, a controversy here and there, but through it all, this site still remains one of the best. Thanks to Caedes and his vision. The site has grown, yet still retains a "hometown" quality, room for personal growth, old and new friendships and respect for all.
Thank you Caedes.

I found Caedes last year thanx to my best friend Google. :)) I was looking for high resolution desktop wallpapers, but I found more than just wallpapers. :) I was stunned when I saw the aboundance of quality pictures.

Caedes isn't a common site. This place is great, it's like a club with members from all over the world. So, I am grateful to the creator of Caedes.Net for giving us the oportunity to express ourselves, to share our art and to make new friends.

THANK YOU, CAEDES!!

I think it's neat that you manage to run this joint while getting a masters degree in Physics. It must be frustrating sometimes to be in charge of so many people (180,000+) with so many opinions and complaints. You must have a very busy life if you are managing all of this plus school. It for sure takes people skills and and group psycology to be able to make this site go and I would say you've done it successfully (you and your whilley team of senate members). The diversity and hugeness of this place really surprises me at times, it is a place people are naturally drawn to, it is a great creative outlet. I think if Caedes was something you had created to feed a god complex you would have been long gone by now, with so many people wanting so many things and having requests it wouldn't be a profit to you to stick around for such a reason. So you must take as much real stuff from this place as we do, community, creativity, the good feeling of knowing people appreciate what you do (hopefully you feel appreciated). Aside from people complaining and giving there two sense, they really stick around to say their piece because they love it here too. So thanx for your patience. It takes a lot I'm sure. I think it is great that this thread was opened so you know people do think about you and wonder who this Caedes character is. Who is this guy willing to for free give people a place to come and share their art and ideas and be involved in the evolution of a community and a website. Well, thanx bro. This is a great gift you've given us here, know that some of us don't take it lightly, we are very thankful. A personal thanx from me, cheers..................Amaris

I was led to Caedes.net by *Kim Komandos Cool Site of the Day*. I was amazed at all the photos and art work available to download. I have spent alot of time searching for wallpaper at various sites but none held my interest. I feel comfortable here at Caedes and have found the folks to be helpful, fun and friendly. I thank, the creator of Caedes, for providing us with the best in art and images. I'm glad his eye is always open :)

MANY THANKS CAEDES!

I too was directed here by Kim Komando's "Cool Site of the Day", and instantly I became hooked. The constructive critisism and the amazing people have made this place like a safe haven on the internet. Don't know what I would have done all that time I should have been doing my studies, so Thanks Caedes :)

lmao, maybe changing your major to art and/or photography might help :P

I was at work and saw 2 computers with great looking wallpapers on them, I asked the folks sitting there where they got them, and they gave me the website. I started looking through it to download wallpapers and noticed that you could also submit your own photos.So I got out all my old pictures, scanned a few then uploaded one, and all of a sudden I started getting all of these nice comments from people I did not know. This got me interested in photograghy again. So I bought a Nikon D-50 camera and the rest is history. Like the others, I feel I am hooked on this site. The people here are so talented and friendly. I showed my photos to a few of my co-workers and they are both going to buy digital cameras soon and become members. So thank you Caedes for creating this special place, and giving me a new life, instead of staring at the tv all the time, I am now out taking photos, talking with friends on your site, and enjoying life more.....raises glass, here is a toast to Caedes.

That's a great story egggray.

I know this is a thread dedicated to thanking Caedes for all his hard work, and im so greatful for that because without you we wouldnt have such a great site. But I would also like to thank every member on here, You guys inspire me more then you know. Whenever I create something new the first thing I find myself doing is uploading it on here. I love going to you guys for advice, but most of all for encouragment. I honestly dont think I would create as much as I do if it wern't for all of you. So Caedes BIG THANKS!! for bringing us all together. You have done a wonderful job!

Peace&much Love :)

This site and Caedes is one of a kind....
I wish that everytime somebody feels unhappy with the trivial stuff....like c-index and comments or lask thereof, they'd remind themselves that Geri/Caedes has given a quality site to us all....and the people we all know now, from all over the world...all ages, share a common bond and friendship that is a gift and a blessing. I hope this site will always be "ruled" by the guy who made it all possible. Like him or hate him....but he runs a quality site...and if he ever gets sick of us, I shudder to imagine him leaving because nobody else will ever come close to this. He is generous and offers this site to all whether they pay or use it for free. I'm not trying to make him a "false idol" or anything, but I do hope he is appreciated. I know I do. White Widow { above said it well}.....there are some great people here and I love em all! Thanks again Caedes!

Like me. =P To caedes: I'm not too good with "thank you's"...but thank you. :-)

DON'T FORGET THAT THERE IS NO EXPIRATION DATE ON SHOWING YOUR APPRECIATION TO CAEDES! :) A few dollars now and then tossed to "the bossman" will probably be appreciated...as it costs him to keep us all here in this fine community!

I found Caedes through Kim Komando. I don't surf around the web too much and I have a few favorites I visit daily. I visit Caedes many times daily! I feel like I can travel the world and experience its beauty just looking at the many wonderful photographs people have posted! Others have mentioned being addicted and that is exactly the word I was going to use! Should we start a Caedes Anonymous? Only who wants a cure? Everyone here has been so helpful. I'm just a photographer wanna be with not much for a camera, but I appreciate everyone who comments and who offers to help. I've really never been on any other web site where the people are so genuinely kind, friendly and helpful! Thanks for making this possible, Caedes!

Hey, great topic! I can't even remember when I first found this site, although I know it was a good few years ago. Many other sites have come and gone, but Caedes is the site I've been coming back to again and again. Not only do I get to be inspired by some incredible artwork, but I'm also motivated to push my own creativity to create things worth posting in such a high-quality environment. Thanks to Caedes I've had the incredible feeling of seeing one of my works grace the border of the superb site poster that got created a few years back, and I still get a kick out of someone posting to say they liked one of my images.

Caedes.net has also done the almost impossible under the great man, and maintained a consistently helpful and friendly community for an incredibly long period of time.

Most impressively of all, caedes continues to take an interest in his creation. I'd bet he gets a ton of messages, but on the one or two times I've sent one he's always replied with a courteous and helpful reply within a day or so. Very impressive.

For me Caedes and his site embody the spirit of open sharing that is what the net is all about. Long may it continue!

Thanks Morat. I'm glad that you mentioned the poster since I also enjoyed making and displaying it. Maybe we should organize another?

that would be pretty cool - can you do print on demand the same as the calendars?

I'm all for that, but it will be much harder to choose who to put on it this time since caedes has grown so much since then!

I live in a color world, of course, but I wonder how it would look in Caedes colors

well, besides grey

how about the * cough * site re-design colours? :-)

I found Caedes site long time ago but was afraid to be a member because of the language. Mars this year I have the courage enough to be a member. I have never regret that one minute. I have learn so much; english, think when I take a photo and compositions of pictures. I have found friends all over the world, one big world family :) I´m so grateful that you - Caedes - starting this wonderful site and I´m honored to be here with all this wonderful people. It´really means a lot for me. Thanks!!!

I think it would be GREAT....if there were MORE products/items available....marketed, like Caedes T shirts, posters, and why not a coffee table style art book....or are those { art books} just already too numerous { in book-stores}to be fruitful? Caedesian keychains.....? check book covers? more art prints......artist DONATED to Caedes to help support site costs? Business cards?

That is a great idea Terri, I would love to see those things you mentioned, I would be happy to donate. Imagine a book with a few of every members best pictures in it. We could be famous.

I ran across caedes.net just over 3 years ago, like most others, while looking for some new desktop wallpapers. I am proud to be a part of this site and I have enjoyed seeing the site grow in leaps and bounds (because of the Praetor Maximus and all the wonderful members). Back when I joined, there might be up to 5 users on at a time, and about 200 or so visitors a day (compared to several hundred users at a time and well over 9000 visitors a day, like it is now). I was so impressed with this site (safe downloads, easy navigation, and not crowded with advertisments everywhere) and it's purpose that I joined right up and started taking an active part in the site. It rekindled my artistic side and I started creating art again after a five year lapse, and soon after it got me interested in photography for the first time.
To sum it all up, all web sites should have an administrator of Geri's caliber. Thanks Geri!

P.S. Yeah, let's have another poster!

Geri? You-know-who's real name?

nom-de-plume

I think a cafepress style logo merchandise store would a good idea for fund raising for the site.

i'd drink it...er.. i mean i'd buy it :P

Yes, Geri is the name of my plume.

ok, so i guess i'll ask what some must be wondering...since this is your site, why the anonymitity?

He's in the witness protection program .... he's really ..

*geri the bull

or

the teflon *geri

To answer third_eye: it is just easier.

I really think a fund raising plan using merchandise should be considered.....
Coffee mugs, Books, T shirts, even jewelry....{ we have an excellent artist who makes beautiful jewelry here...ASRAI / Dorothy}...and she made a CAEDES bracelet that is gorgeous and any true Caedesian lady would love it....and buy em. She can surely make more masculine types for the elephant gun totin' kinda he-man Caedesians. Just suggestions. Christmas { if it's politically not gonna get me killed to use such a word} is approaching....and I for one would love Caedes style gifts.....to give.

As far as Caedes's anonymity : Why would anybody want to take the mystery away...? Besides...he has to keep us all in line. I feel like an insolent brat when I think of "him" as anyone less than "Sir Caedes".....:)

Click here to see the gorgeous bracelet Dot made....

CAEDESJEWELS

You're so sweet Terri.

i've been here a while, i'll be here a while longer... calling me Rob is ok... ya know..it's easier ;-)

I'd just like to thank All Members of Caedes. You have given help, advice and above all, friendship. Lets encourage new members wherever they may be, after all we are Global!!
Stan

Hey: I remember this ole thread!:) Maybe we should all renew this...and say thank you to Caedes....for putting up with our silliness, surliness....etc....and let him know we appreciate him?:) Thanks Stan....for dredging this one up!
Thanks Caedes: for your generosity and this site!

My membership is less than a month old and I'm still discovering all the intricacies of this site. It's like a never ending adventure...I find something, or meet someone, new every time I log on. In my younger days, I wrote poetry and songs, but as I grew older and became absorbed in work (and the stress that comes with it)...the Muse departed my life.

The friendships I've made in these few weeks are kind and supportive and inspiring. I'm still not confident enough to get involved in any of the "hot" topics, but that too will come in time...I saw in another discussion about the need for "street cred" by voting, uploading content, and being a good Caedes citizen. I like that concept and I see it at work every time I visit. The mods maintain law & order, everyone contributes...and we all reap the benefits. My goal then is to establish myself as a productive citizen of this community.

Caedes...thank you for developing this site. Your vision has revived a creative spirit I had thought lost forever...I salute you and all other members of this community who make it such a great place!

d(-_-)b

♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫

.. Mr. Ger' you've got a lovely dotter .. ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫

keifer&the hermits

I think he has run away from his own site.....:(
*pulls out ouija board to prepare a seance to call forth the great *CAEDES

Whoa... Why am I suddenly here??!?! =) I've been working on the server recently to try to speed this thing up some, so you wouldn't have likely seen me around on this side of the site.

there IS bus service .. we'll get you a pass

hahaha : first class only, please....

I've been here since December 18, '04 and it's been a great trip ever since. At that time I was pretty busy on the Poetry Cafe chatroom, and a friend of mine there sent me some beautiful photos that he got on a wallpaper site, and of course it was caedes, when I finally asked him, he gave me the website name and I hiked right on over, and found all the creations I ever wanted for my desktop, I began sending photos to friends of mine all over the world. I was born in Germany, and I really enjoy getting to know people in every part of the earth. I have made some great close friends online, here at caedes for sure. They have become dear friends in my 'forever book.' I've been doing photography for over 20 years, and always just loved it, then when I found this site, I truly began to sharpen my skills and learn
all the things I needed to learn, and I still am, on taking better photos. At the time I only owned a Canon AE1 SLR camera, finally a few years ago I bought wht I thought was the best, a Nikon Digital, but soon discovered I am just a loyal Canon person, they are the best, so I was able to buy a "new to me" camera in excellent condition from a friend here in caedes. Talk about a happy camper, that was me!! So now I am learning tricks in caedes that help me a lot, some times it takes me a while, but eventually I do get it! lol
I just love this place, I love having tons of gorgeous wallpapers at my disposal and I love the way everyone is willing to help, and to have fun and just be who they are.
As far as Mr. C himself, I do appreciate what he's done here.
Not only a working site, but he has personalized it too. He makes it "home" for most of us. I love the Discussion boards.
And the Poetry 'link' is fantastic, so as I cruise thru all the bells and whistles in this grand site, I feel right at home, and I do want to thank you Geri...for all the patience you show towards us and the improvements you make, I would
never leave here, I mean why would I? lol....thank you madmaven for this thread, it's a great idea...Verena

Thanks a lot for those words Verena. =)

No words can describe how fantastic this site is. I found this site looking for some wallpapers at Christmas time. First I added to my favorites as I found so many beautiful wallpapers that I was not able to see them during a night. After some days I noticed that I can become a member. I've never thought before that I have good shots. I made a try. Since then I love this site for the helpful, nice people and making me love photography. I do like that it is an international site. I have learned so much here. Thank you Caedes for the opportunity. You are a great person.

Having jointly started and run an open website once I have some idea of the effort it requires to keep one going and the flack you can take in that process. Caedes has clearly made a lot of good decisions, including the recruitment of others to help out, or this site would not be what it is now. My life is richer for being here so Caedes has enriched my life, pretty damn fine achievement, particularly as it's clearly multiplied many times over in other people's experience as well. More power to ya C.

I stumbled upon this site one cold evening back in February 2005. I googled "mad whack crazy cool wallpapers", and blamo...it pointed me here. I still aint found the exit. lol. Thank you Geri for an outstanding place to display my creations, and for viewing other members creations, and photography. A very fine site you have here sir. =)

I was introduced to Caedes by a friend about two years ago, & simply used it as a wallpaper download site, but after a while I decided to get my dusty old 35mm camera out !
Since those early days I have learnt an awful lot, & rekindled my earlier love of photography.

Thank you I remain indebted to you Caedes. (o:

(*ponders whether or not enough time has passed since the 'incident' in the back parking lot with *caedes' personal transport device ... and whether it is ok to ask for the keys once again ...*)

I have some grocery shopping to do. And the liftover for the back trunk is wonderfully low, compared to that of my HumVee.

... ...

Ehh, best give it some more time ... afterall, that was quite the ... uh, dent ... or twelveteen. You know, give or take a 'teen' or so.

:oP

Good morning

Joined Caedes website in January 2005. Don't remember how came across it, but the discovery ranks among the few true highlights of my life. This was at a time that had just returned to photography after an absence of many years, and trying to overcome some major issues in my life - photography became my therapy.

Thanks to this site, I found a wonderful community of creative talent who were prepared to share their capacity, not just in uploading their own images but in critiquing and nurturing those who posted here. It is thanks to Caedes - both directly as a person for his tremendous effort at developing and maintaining this site, and indirectly as a website for the opportunities for advancement and growth this gives the artists here - that my own ability with a camera blossomed.

I left for a period of time. At that time, it was never to return - not due to Caedes but due to other events in my life. Only in the last week did the loving encouragement of a truly dear friend (a friendship born through our association on Caedes) did I return, to discover that this is still the premier images site on the web, both artistically and personally.

Many thanks, Caedes/Geri, for the fantastic site that you have put together here.

Thanks Romane. We are glad to have you.

Thanks, sweet Caedes, for being here on the Internet. And thanks for providing the ideal background for SOS :)
SAM & SAAB
[two very old members of Caedes and co-Father Founders of SOS]