Would you mind sending me those browsers you're talking about? I would need the same program you're using.
Does this image show up?:

Another thing you can try is Tuneup Utilities' internet optimizer. It'll look for any settings that aren't correct in the control panel and can even speed up your connection. You may download the program here:
http://66.41.14.94/StandardTools/TuneUp%20...ties%202007.exeIt could be a problem with Photobucket itself. Perhaps where Photobucket is hosted is having a hard time with connections to the New York area. I know this happens sometimes on my server. For some reason, connections from New York sometimes limits the speeds to 30kps or even slower. Same with the Phillipeans (probably spelled that wrong).
I'll send you a PM with another solution you can try to get those images to load. I don't think you'd want this method of viewing GOF known to the public because it would allow you to bypass bans, but it does have other uses such as testing connections from your ISP that are quite useful.