For the 98 clicks interested to see about Mth44sc - I have a reply

[Mira]

He wrote me a very nice note, in which he told me he is well, Miss Sarah is well and the grandson, that he is not taking so many photos right now, that he looks in on us periodically and we are not forgotten.

He said that the one time he ran a contest he came close to committing suicide (I think that's what he said) and did not want to evah go through that again.

So, the most important part is our friend is well, and may show up again.
At least I hope so.

[Saphire]

1. I'm glad my photo inspired you to to get in touch :)

[Callalily]

2. Thanks for the update Mira.

I miss Mth44sc photos and inspiration, and am glad that all is well.

[Mira]

3. Thanks for checking in and saying so.

I realize we all have our freedom to come and go, but we are also cared about.

[CC]

4. Good to know.

Life gets busy or things happen so understand his not being around and even the checking in just to enjoy. Contest ARE stressful for the host. I'm just glad he and the family are doing OK and will check out the other swamp pictures when I need a fix. His swamp is beautiful and his photos radiate peace.

[regnaD kciN]

5. What does he mean, "the ONE time he ran a contest"...???

I just checked -- mth44sc won five monthly contests, and I don't recall him recruiting anyone to run any of them in his stead.

It should be noted that he won those five monthlies -- plus two seasonals -- all in the course of a single calendar year (from February 2008 to February 2009). It was by far the most amazing dominance of the DU photo contests I've ever seen.

Anyway, thanks for contacting him!

[Mira]

6. I thought so too, I did not know the exact amount

but I was here for some of those multiple wins. I remember the holding of the breath about what he may enter next, and for the comments about how we can all pack it in now once the expected masterpiece was posted.

I am but the messenger reporting his response. It's possible he commented about feeling suicidal about one specific contests, or maybe
collectively; only his shadow knows, no matter.
What does matter is a celebration of his achievements in general, which is what you are contributing. Thanks!

I contacted him because I miss his presence and his photos.

[CC]

7. I left out a very

important "Thank You" for reaching out and letting us know. :hug:

[Mira]

8. I remember you coming back when you recovered from your injuries,

I gathered then that you had been gone a good while.

I had joined the group but did not know a thing about you and I was so pleased to get to know you, you showed up bearing gifts of bird shots and you made my day that day when I witnessed the happy welcome back you received.

I'd hate to think one of us regulars would disappear and nobody ever asks about them.

Thanks to you, too, CC.
:hug: