Caedes

Artist Spotlight # 26

Submitted by mimi 09/24/07 8:23 AM GMT

Our next artist to be spotlighted is an "owd geezer" who claims he is Dunstickin but we sure know he ain't "dunshootin" yet! If you would like to view our resident bench-sitters' images, please go to his gallery and enjoy the works of art.

Wow!..this was totally unexpected! ‘Shocked, dumfounded, scared, and delighted’! all these emotions went through me when I heard. ’Famous at Last’!!..

I am totally overwhelmed and ‘gobsmacked’ that I have been chosen as ‘Artist of the Month’ and I humbly thank all those who have nominated me, and that my photography has been enjoyable to you all.

I think most of you know me by now and, how much I enjoy myself on here!! When I first discovered Caedes, 3 years and one month ago! (Boy, doesn’t time fly!) I was very excited at the thought of showing my images on a web-site!.. Now the rest, as they say is ‘history.’ I can truthfully say I have enjoyed every moment of my time on here, and have made some very delightful friends in that time! Thank you and bless you all for making me that fortunate!..

I was an only child and was christened Robert - known as Bob all through my life! I suffered with a few problems in my early life. ie: Double pneumonia, Bronchial pneumonia, Spinal Meningitis, and the usual complaints of early childhood! I spent most of my earlier years in and out of hospitals, even doing my school work in there! Luckily I had a great doctor, and recovered from all that to lead a some what ordinary & at times, exciting life!…

I had several jobs, first as a worker in a steel industry driving over-cranes poring molten metal into containers, then eventually ended up truck driving!

Growing up, and into my late teens, I was involved a lot with Youth Work, in a local club. This was a time in the 60’s when good ol’ Rock n’ Roll was all the rage! I joined a local ‘rock’ band as a drummer, and had some great times doing that!

I met then met Ann in 1966, affectionately known as ‘Wor-Lass’ and married her in 1969, we have had a blissful married life of 38 years! Have two children, a lad & lass! We adopted both of them at a very early age! And are now blessed with a delightful and loving grandson David!

In all my life, I have had an interest in photography, and had an assortment of camera’s beginning with a ‘Kodak Brownie’ graduating onto the usual 35mm stuff, and then to the one’s I use now. My main camera is a Panasonic FZ50 and I always carry a pocket sized Panasonic TZ3 wherever I go! Both are excellent cameras as results show in my posts!

In 1980, when working as a truck driver, I had an accident, which left me with a lot of problems and had to retire from work because of them! Those times were bad for me, and I turned very depressive. But through the love of my wife Ann, family and friends, I made it through those ‘bad times’! A friend suggested a hobby, and that is how I became to make ‘Walking-Sticks’ [some of you on here, have seen my work on those] Over many years I showed my work at county fairs and various show gatherings. This was a part of my re-habilitation and I accumulated a lot of awards and prizes for this. Finally I became a tutor and a judge in this craft. However, the hard work using the materials for this work, took its toll on my hands! And reluctantly I had to give up on that. I have happy memories of that period!

It was then that I became more embroiled in my photography and turned to buying a computer. I bought a second hand one to learn on, which was just a well. Because within a week, I wanted to either throw the bloody thing out, or maim the ‘wife’! It was her suggestion that I enrol in computer courses, which I did. I have now learned a great deal which enables me to enjoy my new time consuming hobby.

Although my disabilities inhibit me a lot, I find the thrill of going out and taking pictures very enjoyable and stimulating! During my outings of taking my snaps, I sometimes get into a few err! ‘difficulties’ !! Episodes of falling off gates and having to be bedridden for a few weeks! Chased by various domestic animals that had to remind me not to get near them! Tumbling backside first into patches of stinging nettles! And I cannot remember how many times I have had the pleasure of falling into a river or pond! But, despite all these ‘mishaps,’ I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it all, and have felt like a big kid again! I am delighted I can share all my ‘snaps’ with you!

Never a day passes that I am thinking “What can I post today?” Will my friends enjoy this one or that one? As I dig deep into my ‘rubbish bin’…Ah-ha there’s a new bench that I must try out!

I am so very grateful to Caedes for giving me this opportunity to inject a new passion into my life, and will always be thankful for that!

Now, my dear friends, may I raise a glass or two in salute to you all, and say a big Thank You for the enjoyment, pleasure and companionship I have received since joining this site!

Owd B☺B

Comments

Post a Comment  -  Subscribe to this discussion
::Hottrockin
11/02/07 9:25 AM GMT
Way to go me owd mucker!! A grand tribute to a great kid!!
0∈ [?]
Why do the pictures come out square when the lens is round?? Picture Purrrfect .
::cynlee
11/02/07 1:19 PM GMT
At the risk of repeating myself, I just want to say that maybe this community has given you much support Bob, but the situation is definitely reciprocal. You have never hesitated to help or respond when I have PM'd you for any reason. I have learned much about composition and perspective from viewing your beautiful posts which I anticipate to arrive around 3-4 a.m. if I am still awake and that is often times the case.
You are a good natured and friendly soul and always eager to help and communicate. You are the kind of person that makes spending too much time on Caedes an edifying experience. I congratulate you on your accomplishments and your skill as a photographer and am happy to add my name to this list of fellow admirers. Carry on, mate! ;)
0∈ [?]
You will be led to the knowledge of the internal things which are invisible to you, by the external things which you see before you. . . . Even so then, we can represent to ourselves in thought the Author of all that is, by contemplating and admiring the (visible) things which He has made, and ever brings into being. - Hermes
.alexis518
11/02/07 1:19 PM GMT
Wow, after reading the above, one thing you never have lost is your indomitable spirit! I don't always have time to view all your posts, but I have enjoyed your work tremendously. Congratulations on recognition by your peers, the honor is well deserved, Bob!
0∈ [?]
Much of the beauty in life is found in people who care.
::JQ
11/02/07 2:18 PM GMT
Yay!! well deserved and congratulations Bob!! Im glad it was you this time!!!
0∈ [?]
::fogz
11/02/07 2:19 PM GMT
I don't mind repeating myself! oops! ;)

...copied from the other thread:
well my 'owd friend Bob! No-one deserves this more than you - you owd stalwart! Every day I know you will post some photos with an amusing narrative and every day I know you will find time to comment on my photos! We all know you are a big softie inside, although you pretend not to be! We all luv ya!! ...and can't wait to meet you on our UK get together! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! and I raise the glass to you tooo or maybe I will raise two or three glasses to you! lol! CHEERS!!!
0∈ [?]
"Life is short, break the rules, forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile" .... mygallery
::marilynjane
11/02/07 3:30 PM GMT
To my dear...dear friend Bob.....

I am with Patty...that is I do not mind repeating myself...as many times as is needed!!! ;o) I find it a pleasure to do so.....

For this honor attributed to you by Caedes' membership...I salute you with pride..and with my friendship.... and am delighted that you were chosen to be the 'next star' that shines down on all of your beloved friends....friends at Caedes...your home away from home....and for the very best of reasons...and there are many....

I will begin with the marvelous laughter you have entertained us with...the 'down to earth' 'flavor' of humor..the encouragement and help you have given to me and to others...and of course...for the wonderful presentations of your beloved England...offered to us.... from 'your' very personal view.... as seen through the lens of 'your' camera.... England at her best.....;o) And I really mean that...the quality of your photography is exemplary!!

You have made people in general...feel welcomed and enjoyed...brought pleasure to those who needed a laugh...encouragement to those who just needed your listening ear...and always found the time!! Even through some health issues...'which are common knowledge'...such as your painful arthritic hands....you managed to allow for the time to do what was needed...and I...along with many others...thank you for all these blessings.....and as I always say in my letters to you...'sending my love in tons'.....well...today is no exception!!

To your lovely wife Ann...whom I named 'Queen Ann' long ago...for the job of having to live with... and attend to you....she earned the name I gave her....we still laugh about that...even today....LOL!! She has really paid a price for your love....but found it to be priceless... as she adores you....just a few little secrets I like to share....;o)

Congratulations again Bob...you are so deserving...indeed.... of this honor bestowed upon you.....;o)

P.S. Bob I was so in a hurry to get my salutations off to you....I wrote it rather quickly..... during the 'trick or treaters' visiting my door...sorry Bob!! My thoughts of you and my words delivered...are in know way diminished....;o)

Natural for me to conclude with your Briticism...

Ta..ta...for now...

Love, Marilyn
0∈ [?]
::animaniactoo
11/02/07 3:50 PM GMT
WHEE!!!!!!! *raises another glass* 8•P
0∈ [?]
One man sees things and says "why?" - but I dream things that never were and I say "why not?"
::jacked
11/02/07 6:39 PM GMT
Congratulations and thanks for all the wonderful images Bob, you are a treasure. Peace and happiness to you, and your loved ones. Dwight.
0∈ [?]
::nigelmoore
11/02/07 7:18 PM GMT
Can't think of a nicer bloke for it to happen to. Apart from the sterling work in the gallery - and that's an inspiration in itself - I've never known such courage in the pursuit of artistic ideals. Whether it's a ducking in the brook or being stampeded by stags on hormones you've been there and lived to tell the tale. The naps on benches, and whatever it is you keep underneath them, are well deserved!! Many congrats me owd mucker, you make a massive contribution to this site and have given me personally many happy moments with your images and comments. I have a full glass and it's well and truly raised Bob! I salute you.
0∈ [?]
"Whatever you're interested in, go for it. You can only find your voice if you're not intimidated by doing stuff that's been done before." Alec Soth
.mesmerized
11/02/07 8:38 PM GMT
'Owd Bob' as Artist of the Month?...what a SMASHING choice and about bloody time I say! From the moment he landed at caedes he charmed us all with his charisma, friendly, supportive comments, and yes, even his cluttering up the place with his ever-growing collection of seats and benches where we can always sit and share a chuckle or smile over his comedy or crackin' good photography. The place has changed for the better since your arrival, Bob, and I am so pleased to see you receive the attention and accolades you so richly deserve. Thank you for all the marvellous images you have shared with us and for being one of my friends here...BRAVO AND CONGRATULATIONS !!!
0∈ [?]
“Every oak tree started out as a couple of nuts who decided to stand their ground.”
dutch_postings
11/02/07 10:43 PM GMT
Hideeeehoo Bob ! congratulations with the spotlight you have gotten here, i find it very well deserved. Your work has and is outstanding. Not only in your postings, but also in your efforts in replies what makes this comunity a fun place to be.
I hope you will continue your efforts with lots of new material of your side of the pond.
Greetings and congrats from the mainland ;-) and all the best !

Hans.
0∈ [?]
My images on the map in Google Earth just click here.
.0930_23
11/03/07 4:17 AM GMT
Hope this Copy and Paste works. Owd Bob, you are the "Benchmark" we all should use to reach our potential and even then we would fall short of your achievements. I'm a baby (2 months) on the Caedes site, and so many have welcomed me and made me feel so much at ease, but none anymore than you. You've shared your knowledge and done so out of kindness not wanting any payment other than a smile or a decent post. Your wit with both words and the camera are second to none. It's been a pleasure getting to know you. I'm looking forward to the following months and years and learning even more from you. This award is highly deserved. Contratulations Owd Timer.

Tick

Ain't technology great. It's ok for me to do this because Owd Bob and me are at the age where repeating oneself is second nature.
0∈ [?]
I'll meet you at the edge of the sunlight, just behind the shadows. The Ghost
::LynEve
11/03/07 1:48 PM GMT
Another copy and paste from the other thread :)
Must mean I have to drink another toast!!

Dear Owd Bob - Congratulations!! Such a well deserved honour. You have become a marra to many with your humour and kindness.
Your photography skills are an inspiration and your pictures looked forward to and enjoyed with delight, allowing us a view of your world through your eyes. Take a bench dear friend, with Wor Lass beside you and sit back and enjoy the spotlight because you deserve it :)

I have the lid off the Laphroaig :) A toast to you !
0∈ [?]
The question is not what you look at, but what you see ~ Marcel Proust
.heidlerr
11/03/07 10:04 PM GMT
Owd Bob I raise a glass to you sir. Your images are as amazing as your life story. Although I haven't had time to comment on every upload recently, I have viewed them and drawn inspiration from your talent. Thank you for your masterful and humorous images. They are a blessing to us all. Enjoy your time in the spotlight. It's long over due.
Russ
0∈ [?]
Anything that excites me for any reason, I will photograph; not searching for unusual subject matter, but making the commonplace unusual. Edward Weston
.1bunnyslippers
11/03/07 11:29 PM GMT

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

.1bunnyslippers

You truely deserve this award and I'm so happy for you :) I enjoyed your above info on your interesting life. Many cheers to my special friend, owd Bob :)

0∈ [?]
I need to catch up on things so can't comment too much. But I love all of your fine images :)
.Jhihmoac
11/04/07 1:18 PM GMT
WE-ELLL! Th' Owde Pike finally got 'is name up "On th' barkeep's wall"...T'was 'appy t' see it on th' frent page! Couldn't 'appen t' a nicer bloke! (raises a cold one)..I salute ye, mate! Cheers!
0∈ [?]
"Let us forever cherish and hold sacred these moments...for it is our undoing ...should we forget..." -William Shakespeare ... Visit Jhihmoac's Gallery
.corngrowth
11/04/07 7:21 PM GMT
OWD Bob, SUPER!!! My congratulations pal. Almost drowned, almost ..... (and so on) but not to beaten. Taking from time to time a nap on a 'open air' bench, but above all a photographer with great skills and humour. You simply deserve that honour! Proost, Skoll, Cheers, Santé, Prosit. Cornelius
0∈ [?]
Cornelius was here! (lol) Click HERE to see his work!
.purmusic
11/05/07 3:37 AM GMT
I almost missed this. :o|

Well worth the time to place some more words for you Bob here.

Yes, of course ... congratulations is in order. :o)

It was only a matter of time, and now ... your time has come due.

I join all in raising a glass your way, and toasting both your artistic efforts and community spirit on the site here Bob. Well done, enjoy your time mate. :o)

Les.
0∈ [?]
"Sometimes me think what is love, and then me think love is what last cookie is for. Me give up the last cookie for you." - Cookie Monster
.Novice
11/05/07 7:05 PM GMT
Ow'Do Bob,
Very well deserved. You have a talent which I envy.
Surfs Up,
Stan.
0∈ [?]
Surfs Up, Stan
::verenabloo
11/06/07 3:49 AM GMT
Hey my Dear dear friend!! I just today found out that you made it to the "bigtime" here in caedes!! You are THE most enjoyed person on here I do believe. You've so often given me SO much to smile about on those days that I was really down and out. I've had a real bad year and a half, as you know, and you so often
inspired me to keep going and to keep smiling. I love your humour. We ALL need to be able to laugh and smile so much more, it's the health making thing!! I love the things you post from good ol' England, so many many times they are memories for me from when I lived there as a child. I love the castles you so lovingly sent to me. One day I SHALL do a canvas painting of one, I know that. You know, just a few days ago, I sent one of your photos to a friend of mine that is in a Correctional Institution, and she is in love with that precious country scene. I hope it's ok with you tht I did that. She loves the countryside so much, so your photo is loved. Thank you my dear friend for all the care you have given me and so many others..Congrats and Muuuahhhh!! Verena
0∈ [?]
The person that is the richest is whose pleasures are the cheapest....
.Gabbels
11/06/07 11:16 AM GMT
Hello there my dearest friend!

Like Verena I too discovered today your spotlight!
You deserved it big time. And I too will raise a glass or two in glory to you!

Congratulations Bob.

Gabrielle
0∈ [?]
* Gabrielle *
::gerryp
11/06/07 7:08 PM GMT
Congratulations Bob!! It is well deserved. I must tell you that maybe I have not really commented on your earlier work, i have viewed your work snce I joined here last year and you have inspired me to do better. Now that i have met you I am very pleased to be your friend:))...gerry
0∈ [?]
"The more we come in contact with animals, and observe their behaviour, the more we love them, for we see how great is their care for their young." - philosopher Immanuel Kant
::100k_xle
11/07/07 12:38 AM GMT
CONGRATS BOB !
Love reading your narratives and comments as much as viewing your work. Read your Bio above and I see you've lived a pretty tough life with lots of Zeal. GOOD FOR YOU !
May your fortunes of health change and your work here continue.
I think it's people like you, Fogz, Lyn Eve, Jerry, PJ, Sandi etc., etc. (too many to name) that make Caedes what it is.
Great Talented People with Super Personalities.
Well Deserved Indeed !
Rock On Old Drummer Boy !

E J
0∈ [?]
.Inkeri
11/07/07 2:09 PM GMT
WoooW.Congratulations,Bob and Thank You for Wonderful images.!!
Erja.
0∈ [?]
::djholmes
11/10/07 4:53 PM GMT
This honor couldn't have gone to a more deserving member. Congrats, Bob!
0∈ [?]
Several of my photos are available for purchase in larger format at Shutterpoint, and some are also available in high quality framed prints at http://djholmes.imagekind.com/
::solita17
11/11/07 12:10 AM GMT
Hey, wasn't this on a different thread and didn't I say CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!! on it...? If not, well, CONGRATS!!!!!!! Mr. Owd Bob, you are such a loverly person AND artist here at Caedes, and I think of you lots when I'm out in the 'field' taking pitchers, mostly because on our trails here on Cape Cod there are often benches (yes!) placed at beautiful scenic overlooks, and now, you see, I have an entire folder labeled, "Benches For Owd Bob"... So I have to say, this couldn't have happened to a more nicer and lovlier person than yourself!
mary
0∈ [?]
"If I dream I shall be real, or really myself..." Robert Penn Warren
::fra99y
11/11/07 11:15 AM GMT
Congrats m8....... bet it feels nice up there.....
0∈ [?]
Please swing on by and check out my Gallery .
::tealeaves
11/12/07 4:31 AM GMT
Congratulations, Bob! I had checked out your massive gallery the other day. Such breathtaking views and creative works! I only wish I had such natural and beautiful landscapes around me, as you do. I hope that some day I will have the opportunity to visit the UK to see all it's beauty. But until then, I thank you for bringing it all to me through your snaps :)

It's great photographers like yourself, that inspire me and keep me here. And I look forward to many more postings by you. Take care and best of wishes! :)
~Lori
0∈ [?]
Each cup of tea represents an imaginary voyage. ~Catherine Douzel
&nmsmith
11/13/07 8:42 PM GMT
My most sincere congratulations to you Bob! I consider you a true artist, and have most of your photos saved to my hard drive. Thanks so much for sharing them with us.

Nathan
0∈ [?]
::scorpie
11/14/07 2:45 PM GMT
Congratulations Bob, I just looked through your gallery and am so glad that you are being honoured this way. Your captures are so wonderful, and your narratives and titles are spot on. Again congratulations to a great artist.
0∈ [?]
Why not go out on a limb, that is where the fruit is.... Frank Scully
.rolonmascara
11/15/07 12:50 AM GMT
Hya Mate - If it were not for you I would have never known there were so many places to sit in the UK. Congrats - R
0∈ [?]
Stultum est timere quod vitare non potes.
+photoimagery
11/16/07 2:36 AM GMT
Congrats. Bob, glad to see you made it here. It's an honor that is well deserved. Keep up the good work and I'll be watching over your shoulder.
Your work is really inspirational.
0∈ [?]
.spoton
11/16/07 4:31 AM GMT
Hey, pal. This is a really great honor and for one so deserving. I get up a little early some days just to see what "owd" Bob has created for our viewing pleasure before I head off to work. It is a great start to my day. Congratulations on well deserved recognition of your vast talents.
0∈ [?]
Charlie
::tigger3
11/20/07 10:25 PM GMT
Way to go Bob! I loved reading about you. You have had an interesting life and it show with your wonderful good naturedness. Sandi♥

0∈ [?]
Nature in all her glory is my uplift on life.
.ekowalska
11/24/07 9:09 AM GMT
It is high time you were chosen to shine and glitter in the limelight, Bob! Your uploads are always very professional high quality work, and a pure pleasure to view, my friend. And your gallery... you should be definitely very proud of it... To mention only two of my favourites: February Autumn and A Home for Piner. Can't wait to go through your gallery once again...

And above all, you're always so generous with comments and encouragement like no other. No doubt you are a key asset of this site, and we are fortunate to see nature at its best through your lens.

I am so pleased for you... and offer my sincere congratulations to you with great delight!

Bear huggs form Ewa
0∈ [?]
"Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures." Henry Ward Beecher
.cuddlebuddy48
11/27/07 3:55 PM GMT
Hello you owd weezer..I mean owd geezer! Grab a bench and sit a spell cause I have a speech 4 u and I don't want u smokin any Queen Anne stuff, either. I am thrilled 4 u to finally get the applause you deserve......I have enjoyed your photogs from your side of the world...beautiful work my friend.
Hugs from Geri-girl
0∈ [?]
::jswgpb
11/28/07 5:06 PM GMT
and just how could I have missed this ??? Our favorite Owd sod. LOL Glad to see you in the spotlight Bob. How much are you charging for autographs now ?? LMAO
0∈ [?]
Always remember - Follow the Yellow Brick Road, it will lead you to the Emerald City and OZ A very nice place to be. Trust me on this one, I live there. The Lion **** MY CAEDES GALLERY****Another Site I'm AT - MY DA HOME PAGE
.twinkel
11/29/07 3:25 PM GMT
well deserved 'owd' Bob and concrats with it and keep them going those pretty shot of your walkings:))
0∈ [?]
laughter is the best medicine.
.Ramad
12/02/07 10:18 AM GMT
Hello Bob, hearty congratulations on coming into the "spotlight". (I missed this page earlier somehow). I can well imagine how tough it must have been for you after your accident. I may not have been commenting on your postings but have very often looked at them and have been impressed. Keep up uhe good work!
0∈ [?]
If practice makes perfect and nobody is perfect, then why practice?
.Skynet5
12/20/07 5:32 AM GMT
Congrats!!
0∈ [?]
"Do or Do not, there is no try" -Yoda
.dleuty
12/24/07 5:28 PM GMT
Ringo Bob! I would have never guessed. Way to go, mucker.

Congratulations. I cannot think of anyone more deserving.


d
0∈ [?]
"If you can dream it, you can do it." Walt Disney

Leave a comment (registration required):

Subject: