Caedes

Artist Spotlight #36

Submitted by mimi 12/08/08 12:52 AM GMT

I present you yet another artist, our 36th, to shine in the bright Artist Spotlight.
Winning this honor by popular vote, I present to you our own cynlee. Please take some time to stop by her large,varied gallery and leave congratulatory words!

Naturally, I am delighted to be selected as this month's featured artist and wish to especially thank those who presented my name for consideration. I am deeply honored by your thoughtfulness towards me and your approval of my images. Mimi suggested some things that I could include in a short bio so you could know a tad more about me, so for starters, my full name is Cindy Maurer, resident of Wales, MA, population 1500, for the last 25 years.

I have been blessed with five wonderful children, Roma, Colin, Aaron, Maryam and Jamila, ages 39-19 and a very patient, understanding husband, Roy. My three youngest children were home schooled and as part of their (and our) education, Roy and I decided to take them abroad to see other parts of the world. So, in 2002, we traveled to the UK and parts of Wales, (the country) lol. In 2004, we visited Morocco with stop overs in Amsterdam where I got to see some of the original works of my favorite artist, Jan Ver Meer. Then in 2005, we all took a trip to Turkey.

Naturally a digital camera became a necessary travel accessory and we bought a 2 MP Fuji. By the Turkey trip, I had acquired a 4 MP Kodak Easyshare camera and a fondness for 'picture taking'. I am a Medical Technologist by profession and in 2006, when the computer system in our hospital was upgraded to a windows based OS, I went on the Internet to find more wallpapers for the 14 monitors in the laboratory. That's how I discovered Caedes' wonderful web site. I downloaded some images and soon others were asking where I had found those beautiful desktop wallpapers and when I told them, they started downloading them too. All the wallpapers on our monitors are now harvested images from Caedes.net. Having found this wonderful venue for sharing photos from our trips as well as other scenes and subjects, I was inspired to pursue photography more earnestly.

I have always been interested in light, color theory and optics, so photography was the natural niche into which I would settle. I have pursued many other art forms over the years, like sewing, gardening and needlework and taken classes in watercolor, pen and ink, and illustration, (Should I mention the belly dancing and massage classes too?) lol, but nothing quite held my interest like photography.

Wanting to learn more and have more control of the process of 'picture taking', I naturally bought my first DSLR, a Canon XT with the kit lens. That was enough for awhile and I acquired a Sigma 17-70mm telephoto and a Sigma 70-300mm telephoto, both of which I had researched and found to be good lenses for reasonable prices. I became enamored of the Canon 40D when it was released and got such a good deal with the 28-135mm lens that came with it, that I bought it. Since then, I have also gotten a Tamron 90mm macro lens and a Canon 70-200mm f4 lens with IS, which I like very much. I use PaintShopProX, PSCS3, Photofiltre and most recently Canon's Digital Professional Photographer, as recommended by Paul Gerritsen. I shoot mostly in RAW because I like the control it affords me in the post work.

My fondness for Caedes website is mostly derived from the communication and interaction of the members. I can talk about my favorite subject, photography, with folks from the UK, Sweden, Holland, Germany, Hungary, India, NZ, Australia, France, Canada, S. Africa, Turkey etc. as well as with folks from the Midwest, the South, the North West, and the East and West coasts of the US. I enjoy it when someone gives me a straightforward, honest critique of something I post because that is how I will learn to improve. I can be too subjective in viewing my own images and need other eyes to help me see what I may have failed to see.

I have met many wonderful people on the site and though I would like to name them all, for the sake of brevity I cannot, but I hope they know that I appreciate these friendships along with their observations, comments and advice on my posts and that I derive much pleasure or discover something new about the world in viewing their posts.

I had a wonderful time in DC meeting up with Jen, Hilda, PJ and Mary. It was great to see the faces behind the avies and share our common interest.

My other hobby is reading. I read mostly non-fiction; books about religion, natural healing, herbs and medicinal plants and, of course, photography!

I come here also to get new ideas from the works of those I aspire to emulate. I want to learn new techniques and more about camera settings, etc. And I owe a great deal of thanks to those who have already helped me on this learning journey, members and moderators both.

As to my choice of my own favorite photo, I'd pick Queen of the Garden, because it was taken in one of those serendipitous moments and it was shot with the 4MP Kodak set to macro. Was I brief enough? Lol Thanks so much to all of you and I look forward to seeing YOU here next month!

-Cindy

Comments

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.DigiCamMan
12/08/08 1:09 AM GMT
Way to go Cindy! Great to see you get the honor...now let's party!
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Lu 17:24 For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day. ........ My Gallery
::jeenie11
12/08/08 2:54 AM GMT
BRAVO! it's about time!!!!!! i am so delighted. you contribute to this site in more ways than i can count. your photography is excellent and your comments are ones that make us all evaluate the topic more carefully. i'm with Jerry and i'll bring the champagne!!!!
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i am always extremely grateful for the kind comments and suggestions that you make. sorry i'm so far behind in my comments! Please Visit My Gallery
::RKG
12/08/08 3:58 AM GMT
Congratulations.
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comments/critiques always appreciated
::solita17
12/08/08 4:05 AM GMT
Heyyy! Congratulations, Cindy! I'm so happy for you, enjoy your time in the spotlight!

I took a peek at your latest, and I have to say, your fractals are as delightful and distinctive as your landscapes...

So, once again, congrats and enjoy... and I'll bring lots of freshly baked cookies!
mary
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"Never let your studies interfere with your education." - Pete Seeger
.Genver
12/08/08 4:13 AM GMT
Congratulations,it is well deserved.
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.Gabbels
12/08/08 8:44 AM GMT
Congratulations!
Enjoy your well deserved time in the spotlight.
I'll bring some more goodies to the party.

Greetings and hugs Gabrielle
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When you're through with life and all hope is lost. Hold out your hand 'cos friends will be friends - right till the end.
::JQ
12/08/08 9:28 AM GMT
congratulations on a well deserved honour! :-) i have enjoyed many of your photos, you are especially good at flowers, but also the butterflies and other lil critters you have posted, i love the cardinal in the snow you posted today, its nice to know a bit more about you also. have a fun month girl!
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::gerryp
12/08/08 11:06 AM GMT
Cindy...I could not be more happy for you! It is always nice to be recognized by one's peers....I have seen you improvement in your work over last few years..as I have seen with many members here..This website has been a wonderful site for us here...congratulations agian Cindy!!....gerry
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"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
::nigelmoore
12/08/08 11:37 AM GMT
Many congratulations Cindy, it's about time you were included here! Your great pictures have been an inspiration to me on many occasions. Enjoy the limelight, you deserve it.
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"A camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." Dorothea Lange
::LynEve
12/08/08 12:09 AM GMT
Delighted to see you here in the spotlight Cindy - CONGRATULATIONS on this well deserved honour.
Your work is always a pleasure to see and your attitude towards others and your willingness to help is an example to follow.
I enjoyed reading your bio.
Now I am off to seek your latest offering.
Go celebrate Cindy!!
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The question is not what you look at, but what you see ~ Marcel Proust
.SatCom
12/08/08 1:19 PM GMT
Congratulations Cindy!!!! What a well deserved honor to a well deserving friend. I have always admired your work and your honest comments and opinions.

I am so proud to be able to call you my friend of photography and please never stop learning...because the minute you do...we all suffer.

Keep up the grand work and looking forward to even my beauty.

Paul
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Sometimes I do get to places just when God's ready to have somebody click the shutter. - Ansel Adams....... My Gallery
.Jhihmoac
12/08/08 4:06 PM GMT
Congrats to you Cyn...Thanks for sharing your works and for becoming a memorable part of the Community...
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"Who says the music's dyin' in the streets?...Don't know what they talk about...I like my music wakin' up the dead...Don't tell me to turn it down!!!" - Motley Crue ... Visit Jhihmoac's Gallery
&purmusic
12/08/08 4:47 PM GMT
Congratulations Cindy on reaching a well-deserved spot in the limelight. :o)

Not too shabby of an early Christmas gift, eh?

Enjoy your time and may you keep your artistic passions moving forward.

... ...

... ...

Oh, and you owe me $37.34 for the write-up of your bio. :oP
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"Be the change you wish to see in the world." -Gandhi
::twinkel
12/08/08 6:49 PM GMT
Congrats Cindy for being in the spotlight, a well deserved place for you, enjoy it for as long as it takes:)
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Better to fight for something, than to live for nothing! Love Life, Fight Cancer. WWW.Fight Cancer.nl
::jswgpb
12/08/08 9:06 PM GMT
WoooHooo.......Lion dances around.......dances around some more. What an honor and you deserve your moment in the sun my dear. You always have wonderful images and I look forward to seeing them all. Now.........you're a fractal artist too.....something I can relate to more readily (not much good with a camera) LOL Hope you enjoy this......it don't last long :) Couldn't have been bestowed opon a more seserving individual around here. I'm pleased as punch just to have you as my friend. Congratulations Cindy. ((HUGS)) WoooHooo....... John
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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
::NL
12/08/08 10:37 PM GMT
Congrats Cindy, a well deserved spotlight.
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::Hottrockin
12/08/08 11:56 PM GMT
wOOt!! wOOt!! wOOt!!

FINALLY girly girl!! A grand tribute to a grrreat gal!!

Congrats on the spotlight...very, very deserving!! Your ability to always see beyond and around the corner is always sweet to see!! You try and perhaps don't succeed, yet, only to try again and nail it out of the park!! Havin' fun and learning are super duper and you've done both with a majestic grace!! Keep up the amazing works Cyn!!

BIG hugs from your Rocker boy!!
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Why do the pictures come out square when the lens is round??
::tigger3
12/09/08 1:10 AM GMT
Cindy, Congrads to you. Your very talented with the camera and now fractal art. Your always so willing to help others and are a good friend. Cindy, I'm very pleased you get the spotlight this month. Whohoooooooooooo!! :) =^..^= sandi ♪
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Nature in all her glory is my uplift on life and so is my love of photography. ♪ ♫ ♪sandi ♪ ♫ ♪
::PatAndre
12/09/08 3:40 AM GMT
Congrats girl. I always like to see your name come up on my "Friends List". This is a long time coming and well deserved award. Bask in it!
Pat
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::0930_23
12/09/08 3:45 AM GMT
I am not surprised that you get your turn on the pedestal. It is much deserved. You were one of those who welcomed me to this site and gave me many instructions to help improve my work. You directed me to programs that would help in the process. For all that I am thankful.

I learn by looking closely at what you post and your comments. It has been a pleasure to get to know you COG.

Congratulations once again.


Tick
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I'll meet you at the edge of the sunlight, just behind the shadows. Anyone who does not like clouds, does not like to dream. The Ghost
::phasmid
12/09/08 5:10 AM GMT
What a lovely bio you left us...and I don't believe that Les had any part in writing it..lol

This is so very well deserved, my friend. Meeting you and part of your family in Washington was a delight and I hope it's not the last time we have together to shoot the breeze and shoot pics as well.

Your intelligence and lovely personality show through even when you aren't physically present. I'd have to look hard to find a more honest and forthright person, and it shows in everything you do.

I'm proud to call you my friend in so many different ways.

It's YOUR time in the sun, girl. Fly as high as you can. You'll "rise" to the occasion.

:)PJ
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We don’t make art to show someone what something looks like. All this requires is eyes (or a lens). Art is supposed to have meaning, emotion, power, or magic. Alan & Mario "FourThirds"
::danika
12/09/08 5:14 AM GMT
Congratulations Cindy ... a well deserved honor. You bring me all alot of enjoyment when I view your images. Enjoy your time in the spotlight.
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A photograph is usually looked at - seldom looked into ... Ansel Adams
.JEdMc91
12/09/08 11:59 AM GMT
Congrats to you my friend, you deserve it~ :-)
-Jonathan
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Music's the medicine of the mind. ~John A. Logan Visit My Gallery.
.rozem061
12/09/08 4:55 PM GMT
Congratulations Cindy ! A well deserved honor !
John

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****Sorry' I'm not a member of the "TREACLE CLUB" ! ***
::tealeaves
12/10/08 2:48 AM GMT
I'm so happy for you, Cindy!!! I was attracted to your photography from the beginning, and it has been a pleasure to witness your growth in the art. A true inspiration you are, to myself and others, through your creativity, and comments on others work. It also tickles me that you have finally decided to give fractals a try, and having fun with it :) I've enjoyed reading your bio and I hope that life continues to be good to you and your family. A truly well deserved honor, my friend! And best wishes to you and yours, this holiday season :)
~Lori
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Each cup of tea represents an imaginary voyage. ~Catherine Douzel
.Jimbobedsel
12/10/08 3:22 AM GMT
I just now saw that you were selected. That's great C. Congratulations. You are well deserving of the honor. I am very happy for you. Take care.

Jimbob
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MERRY CHRISTMAS to all.
.jesusrocks13
12/10/08 5:41 AM GMT
Congratulations Cindy! You absolutely deserve the spotlight! You've been so helpful and kind to me over the past few months and I cannot thank you enough. You're always willing to give me good constructive criticism on my work and it has meant so much to me. I too have enjoyed the friends here on caedes and you are definitely one of them. Thank you for being so sweet and fun to be friends with. Congratulations Cindy... a very fitting award!
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::Toto_san
12/10/08 6:06 PM GMT
I am really glad, Cindy. You are really somebody who has a very interesting and lovely collection. I have learned a lot from you with your kindness and constructive opinions. Enjoy your month. I think I can tell it: We love you, Cindy. :)
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For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, His eternal power and Godhead;... Rom 1:20
.mesmerized
12/10/08 7:51 PM GMT
Cindy, I'm so glad to see your time has come in the spotlight. You have a marvellous gallery full of variety and color...it would be hard to choose a favorite. I especially love your landscapes and nature shots and being a cat lover really like Ole Blue Eyes. I too have seen your abilities improve and grow since you joined caedes...that and your friendly, warm personality all go towards making you and your art a welcome presence. Congrats on this overdue and deserved recognition!
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.corngrowth
12/10/08 9:12 PM GMT
Congrats dear Cindy!! It's great that you have a place now in the 'Photographic Hall of Fame' forever. You've deserved this honour very well! Be proud of it, as you've brought us a wonderful collection of photographs.
Thank you very much!
Regards, Cornelius
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Cornelius was here to enjoy your image. Please CLICK HERE to see his work!
::rp64
12/10/08 10:01 PM GMT
Congrats Cindy...very well deserved!

Rich
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You never get old until your regrets outweigh your dreams...
.angelledaemon
12/11/08 2:58 AM GMT
Congrats! Your artwork is divine.
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Angelle "Ya, but she's our witch so cut her the hell down." Malcom Reynolds...Firefly "Safe"
.gabriela2006
12/11/08 4:01 AM GMT
Awesome...congratulation :)
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.toetsie
12/11/08 9:33 AM GMT
Congratulations..
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Carpe diem....
::100k_xle
12/11/08 12:35 AM GMT
CONGRATULATIONS CINDY !

A Well Deserved Honor Indeed.
Love Your Work and Look Forward To Seeing Much More In The Future.

E J
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This Image GRABBED my EYE. That's Why I Stopped By. Thanks For Sharing ! Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience
::bean811
12/11/08 3:28 PM GMT
GONRATS!!!!! Definitely well-deserved, Cindy! I've always been a big fan of your work...there's too many to pick a favorite, but I think I'm leaning towards your Hummingbird shots :)
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Check out my website
::egggray
12/11/08 3:50 PM GMT
I am so happy for you Cindy, your gallery is amazing and your work is always improving. So nice to read your bio. A big congrats to you for a well deserved honor. What a nice Christmas gift. Enjoy the spotlight.
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If you wish to purchase framed photos, prints or greeting cards of my work please visit my website .http://www.redbubble.com/people/ziggy7
::_SNAPDRAGON_
12/12/08 8:56 AM GMT
I was absolutely delighted when your spotlight appeared on the homepage Cindy, your photos are so beautiful, just like yourself and I'm so thrilled to see your wonderful gallery getting the praise it deserves. Enjoy your white Christmas, I know I'll enjoy your pics of it:) Love and blessings, Kelcey.
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::fogz
12/12/08 6:09 PM GMT
Congratulations Cindy! very well deserved! loved reading about your family and your enthusiasm for photography!
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..thanking you in advance for your comments. Please know that all your comments are appreciated....." Live well, love much, laugh often!" .... mygallery
::wheedance
12/12/08 8:16 PM GMT
Way to go, Cindy! I'm so pleased to see you honored in this way! This is a well deserved honor and I congratulate you. Yay for you! (I'm happy for you!) Hilda
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All of earth is crammed with heaven And every bush aflame with God But only those who see take off their shoes. - Elizabeth Barrett Browning<p> mygallery
::SEFA
12/12/08 11:37 PM GMT
Congratulations Cindy! I am happy to see you here as artist of the month, it is so very well deserved! I have enjoyed your photos for a long time now and I think if enyone deserves to be here it is you! Well done!


Susanne

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SEFA
::Joanie
12/13/08 10:18 PM GMT
I can't believe it took me this long to notice you on the front page! Oh, I get so mad at myself. A big congrats Cindy! So well deserved!! You're one of my most favorite artists and close friends here, and you truly deserve this honor. I'm proud of you girl, and please keep us all going with your wonderful photos and fractals! Well done and lots of love to you!
Joanie
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Love and live.
.gonedigital
12/14/08 3:17 PM GMT
Hi Cindy that's quite a long informative narrative up there !

I've followed your work for some time now, & have not only enjoyed it, but commented on some of it too. :o) Congratulations on this award, Caedes is often a unfair, & tough place for some artists but you have clearly persevered regardless .. Fair play. :o)

P.S: The artist you mentioned Paul_ Gerritsen is an excellent photographer who I have always aspired to.
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If you have a garden please feed the birds this freezing winter, & supply drinking water not ice, it's so important. . . . Help dwindling bird numbers survive.
::Dunstickin
12/14/08 4:02 PM GMT
Oh Dear..oh dear!...

I'm late and sorry!...Congrads on being picked Cindy!...a long time coming in my eyes!....

your work has always been a aspiration and full of enjoyment!..

reap the rewards dear heart...and revel in the comments!

cos yer worth it!..
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* To Believe in myself and have faith in my Photography * OwdBob'sGallery
.Ramad
12/15/08 2:32 PM GMT
Hearty congratulations Cindy, on becoming the Artist of the Month. I have been through your gallery before and have admired quite a few of your fine photos. It is interesting to read how Caedes got you to invest in better cameras and lenses. Keep up the good work - Raj
P.S. Sorry am late - have only returned from my holiday in India on Saturday.
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If practice makes perfect and nobody is perfect, then why practice?
.alexis518
12/15/08 2:51 PM GMT
I can't believe I'm so late in coming to congratulate a fine artist. Not only do you provide us with so many fine images, but also a thoughtful word on so many others. Becoming an artist of the month is but a natural progression of your talents and a well deserved honor.
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Much of the beauty in life is found in people who care.
.Inkeri
12/15/08 5:51 PM GMT
BIG Congratulations,Cindy..Very Well Deserved..
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=ppigeon
12/15/08 7:28 PM GMT
Hey! You forgot Belgium in the country list... ;-)
Congratulations Cindy!
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-Pierre-
::cynlee
12/16/08 1:07 AM GMT
Oh, and I can talk to people from Belgium too! No doubt I have forgotten some others as well. lol I wish to sincerely thank all of you for your very kind and supportive comments and I wish you all a very happy holiday season and a very merry new year. Cindy
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"Felicity is a tree whose root is certitude and crown is serenity"...Frithjof Schoun
.muki7
12/16/08 3:17 AM GMT
Congratulations Cindy! A very well deserved honor. Keep up the great work.

Ed
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After 50 years of photography I shoot for memories not perfection
::Roseman_Stan
12/16/08 6:42 PM GMT
Congrats Cindy!!! You deserve to be in the spotlight for sure. I have always enjoyed your work. You were one of the first folks I met here at Caedes and you made me feel at home. Keep up the superb work! :o)

Stan
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“Won't you come into the garden? I would like my roses to see you” - Richard Brinsley Sheridan
::verenabloo
12/18/08 8:07 AM GMT
Congratulations...for a job well done and I'm sure you'll enjoy
your time in the spotlight. Verena
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The only courage that matters is the kind that gets you from one moment to the next.
+nmsmith
12/19/08 5:29 AM GMT
A heartfelt congratulations, Cindy. One thing I like about these artist features is we get to learn a little more about our friends here. I didn't know you had five children, and had homeschooled them. My wife and I have seven children, and we homeschooled all of ours until just the past couple of years. My wife is now attending the university full time, and should get a degree in horticulture and soil sciences within a year. I've always enjoyed your work, and greatly appreciated your comments. You deserve this honor.

Your friend,
Nathan Smith
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::sasraku
12/23/08 10:08 PM GMT
Whoop, whoop, whoop, well done m8.......
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No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
::casechaser
12/29/08 6:03 PM GMT
Cindy, I am so very happy for you. You well deserve this honor and you bring honor to it, as well. I have long admired your work. Keep them coming! ~~ John
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.marcaribe
01/07/09 4:06 PM GMT
Happy New Year Cindy! I enjoyed reading your informative narrative and learning about your life.
You are truly a artist and deserve this honor.
looking forward to all your new beautiful photos in 09!
all my best
Diane
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purr
::allisontaylor
01/08/09 3:24 PM GMT
Hi Cindy, I truly enjoyed reading your bio. I always enjoy your work as well as reading your comments. I feel I've learned from your assessments as much at the images. Congrats!
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seanzone
01/20/09 7:48 PM GMT
Hi Cindy, You have the eye of a true artist behind that lens at work.
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