Geoff,
I admire any working Pro that can consistently "get the shot." It seems like I'm constantly irritated at myself because I've not set the camera "correctly," or missed a shot because I wasn't "in the game." It takes experience, concentration, and lots of practice to consistently "nail" each shot every time. It doesn't help that each new generation of cameras gets more complex and takes longer to learn. I'm not complaining though, just noting that I really admire the folks that are on top of their game and can maintain the concentration required to keep getting great shots time after time. That's one of the reasons I am starting to look for any excuse to pick up the camera. I'm looking forward to the day when operating the camera becomes like playing a musical instrument, I think the notes, and my fingers do the rest, without having to consciously think about all the intervening steps.
No need to apologize for not visiting recently. I enjoy all your images and posts, and appreciate that you take the time when you can to share your images and experiences. I'll look forward to more at the coming weekend . . .
Keith