I'm a newbie and was trying out Cumulus when I had a problem (self induced). Steve L. at Sandaysoft stuck with me explaining what was going on and basically what to do about my problem (as did some great users here on wxforum.net!). With my thick-headed questions I figured at anytime to hear him say "buzz off" or something, but he never did...he just kept trying to answer my questions, explain to me what was going, and what to do next...very patient with me. I like the software...the UI is straightforward and easy to navigate, configuration is easy, configuration of internet connections is simple, pleasing look to the default screen, etc.,. I think it's pretty good and it's author is very approachable and responsive. And, it is
FREE! 
BUT...
Imagine an artist finding a craftman who makes a certain type of paintbrush that (for this particular artist) makes his paintings come alive and be what he wants them to be whereas other paintbrushes are good just don't quiet get there for him. The craftman simply tells the artist that he makes the paintbrushes because he enjoys making them and interacting with the artists that use them. He also tells the artist that if the paintbrush does what the artist wants it to do, if he's happy with the end results, and if he wants the craftman to continue to be able to supply the brushes it would help if the artist could make a donation of any size to help buy tools, materials, etc.,. Otherwise the craftman will have a hard time continuing the production of his brushes. The artist doesn't feel forced into "buying" the brushes but after seeing their value they indeed donate to the craftman...sometimes small amounts, sometimes large amounts, and sometimes in between. The artist doesn't donate because he thinks he is "buying" the brushes (there's no price tag on them). Instead he donates to the craftman so the craftman can continue to do what he enjoys and in doing so furnish the artist with a particular something he desires and needs. He also donates simply because he appreciates what the craftman has done without any assurance of being rewarded for his work.
No one software program will work for everyone, we all have our likes and dislikes. There are other fine wx programs out there, some that cost upfront, some absoutely free, some donationware, some shareware (limited use), etc.,. You have to pick your poison...or at least your tonic.
After using Cumulus a short while and after my exchange with Steve at Sandaysoft I made a donation. What George said about an annual donation is exactly what I had planned to do...it doesn't hit the wallet as hard all at one time that way. Will I continue on with Cumulus longterm?...I don't know (I'm a newbie
), but for now I like it, I'm comfortable using it, and I'm thankful that Steve makes it available.
Ed
