Is it time to just quit?

Liz... while we don't always agree, you bring a true, sincere, "real world" perspective to many threads that otherwise threaten to veer off into mushroom-stoked la-la land.  Keep on posting.  I've found shopping therapy is quite effective until the c.c. puts on the brakes.  My own theory about inexpensive tweaks is that they keep the endorphins hopping in those lulls between bigger purchases.  Right now I've fallen back on lurking around Amazon and buying good condition used CDs. 

Don't despair Elizabeth, we all go through something similar though most don't want to admit it. There's been a few times when the idea of selling everything had me rethinking this hobby and the costs and efforts to maintain it. 

I think too much emphasis is on buying and not listening, backed by the never ending sales and peer pressures. You have to keep in mind this is one of the most hyped niche industries around. 

I've had a few moments when I thought I was satisfied, and I was, only to read up on what was shiny and new and it provoked that demon inside to "just read up on it" and check it out and then wait and see what some of the respected reviewers had to say and then, bingo! Another sale. More used gear to sell. Now which cables work best with the new set up, and so on.

You have a lot of insight that we all like to hear as well as a great sense of humor. Your posting here is appreciated. The doldrums will pass.

All the best,
Nonoise

If this hobby starts to become unfun I’d day it’s time to quit. Think about your stress level! You don’t want to have a heart attack...

I used to belong to a large Nikon gear based web site. I was a moderator for years and very active. Once I acquired the higher level gear and skill set that suit my purposes I found that I no longer participated as much.

At first my thinking is that I just don’t need advice on gear and basic technique any longer.

But that is self centered thinking since the other half of the equation in forums like this is helping others and not just myself. Admittedly, I am still not super active on that (excellent) site.....but I probably should be simply to pass on what knowledge I have that might be helpful to someone else....as others did for me.

My point is, we should probably try to enjoy helping others as part of our own enjoyment here and other sites....and avenues of life. If I’m preaching here, I’m preaching to myself. I can’t be much help to anybody here at this point. Maybe at some point. But Elizabeth, you can be and have been a help to people here.

Yes, yes and yes!