thanks for the comment. I used photomatix and then CS2. personally I am not fond of it at all and I think I will wait to find a much better subject on which to try some more HDR.
Good, I won't feel bad for saying I think the subject matter is boring. I also wish there were a lot more shadows/dark tones to add more "range".
Honestly though, I remember some of your shots you've posted and you seem pretty good and I can't wait until you get the hang of it. I doubt all of Woodsac's first HDRs were amazing.