The Absence
Yes, I haven't "logged in" in some time. However, I have viewed the site not logged in. I haven't had much to say. My life is super busy... our lives are super busy. I'm working full time, our daughters started dance and gymnastics season, I still babysit on Saturdays and school started last month for our kids and for me, so I'm also doing the school thing full time as well.
elitecodex and I have read the posts. We see what others are saying about us, and the site. Will is not only working from home, but now, he's responsible for taking on our 2.5 year old while he's at it. He's a handful. He really really is. I can only imagine how difficult things are for him being at home working and trying to take care of a kid that will get into everything he can possibly get his hands on.
We are aware of the absence. As far as people complaining about no emails, I don't get the "contact us" emails or even the main emails. I only get anything that comes directly to me, and I haven't seen anything come across in awhile, so I cannot comment on that aspect. The posts have given us a lot of things to think about. We have to figure out what is going to be in the best interest of the site, us and the members. We've heard a ton of complaints, and some of them are warranted. However, having a million things tossed at us all at once, people need to understand that 2 months of not posting or being that active is not that bad. I'd like to see some of you do what WE do on a regular basis and manage a site as perfectly as everyone wants you too.
We're not perfect, and we never claimed to be. We apologize that we haven't lived up to your expectations but life happens. We'll keep you posted once Will and I have discussed things further.
Image Credit »
Comments
MegL wrote on September 5, 2015, 11:07 AM
Hey, MaeLou , thanks for posting. I understand life gets busy. A quick post like this helps. It lets us see that someone is here. That's all most of us need - just a little reminder that there is someone there. We're like kids too - sometimes we need our hand held, or the light left on.
5Feisty56 wrote on September 5, 2015, 11:08 AM
MaeLou , I apologize if the concerns voiced have felt personal; I don't think it was anyone's intention to make it so. The concerns I've voiced and read have been about the site itself, and yes, that input from the administrators would be reassuring. With a young family and the commitments that go along with school, work and home, we can all understand neither you nor Will have the time or interest to "babysit" the site or its members.
There was no disrespect intended, only concern and yes, even some frustration. Speaking for myself, I had grown used to your and elitecodex 's regular presence on the site, so it was disconcerting to me when concerns were voiced by members and there was no response from management because that had not been the norm here. We all want to see Persona Paper succeed, from your standpoint and our own. I've always had the feeling here that we all worked together as a team, keeping that goal in sight.
I hope you and Will will be able to determine a method of going forward here that will work first for you two as management and then for us as members. : )
CoralLevang wrote on September 5, 2015, 12:01 PM
MaeLou Thank you for your post. Good to see you here. I can sense your frustration in this, and want you to know that the majority of us believe in this site, and understand. Concerns have been expressed by some and, for the most part, have been just that--concerns. Several of us have been trying to put the kibosh on the relentless negativity by certain individuals.
That being said, there are still many of us here who love it here, and have been doing our best to keep a spirit of community and encouragement, as well as supporting freedom of speech. I commit to you and elitecodex that I will continue to do that, and would like to go on record to say that if there is something that I can personally do to help you, let's have some discussion. I think there are several who might do the same.
I hope that you, Will, and your "handful" take time this Labor Day weekend to enjoy one another. Heaven knows you all deserve it. Hugs and much love to all.
CalmGemini wrote on September 5, 2015, 12:39 PM
Hello MaeLou ,thank you for your kind post. Most of us were unaware that you do not get the ''contact'' emails.Any way,happy to know that you and elitecodex will be discussing site matters. Wishes for your family.Take care.
wolfgirl569 wrote on September 5, 2015, 12:43 PM
Glad to see you again. We know your life is very hectic and busy. I dont think I could have done all that you do.
1MaeLou wrote on September 5, 2015, 12:57 PM
I think the "frustration" posts can be posted. But, I really don't see why me nor Will have to respond to them. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and we do not always feel like we have to defend our choices and consistently respond to those that want to complain all the time.
2Feisty56 wrote on September 5, 2015, 1:17 PM
I heartily agree that no defending is necessary and yes, even when the goose lays golden eggs, there will be those who find fault.
I know I've been heartened to see that the core group who posts regularly and does their best to keep things upbeat is still growing strong and the number of those doing so has increased over time.
Wishing the best to you and yours -- stay healthy and safe over this holiday weekend and going forward.
lexiconlover wrote on September 5, 2015, 1:44 PM
I agree with what you've said. I see no reason that you or him beef to respond to every concern or complaint. The website seems to be running smoothly to me. So continue living life :
1CoralLevang wrote on September 5, 2015, 2:19 PM
CalmGemini I think that this is one reason that we need to be vigilant to support them, rather than get on the negativity bandwagon that is so easy to do, given past behavior from other owners. This site's owner/admin have been nothing other than transparent, and for some folks to try to suggest that they could be like the others at different sites does NOTHING but create more discontent, like a cancer that eats from the inside out.
1My Mom used to say, "No news is good news." In this case, we have to trust, because this admin has been nothing but forthright, though silent. People have been paid; it has been running. It has not been the same as with other sites, which stopped paying and skulked around.. We must all take care to keep things moving forward, and not fall prey to those who stir it up just for stirring it up sake.
xstitcher wrote on September 5, 2015, 2:48 PM
Thank you for being here when you can. Everyone has a life outside the internet, some people unfortunately forget that. I have nearly three year old nephew that my mother and I watch on Wednesdays, and while we only have him one day a week and he is pretty good about not getting into things, but by the end of the day my mother and I are worn out ! I'm sorry people have been complaining. Some people don't have anything better to do. ;(
HappyLady wrote on September 5, 2015, 2:52 PM
Mae Lu, maybe the way forward is to have a helper or two? I know others who have done this n other (non writing) sites. I really do understand how busy life is as will most of us who have tried to juggle studies, jobs and young kids. We have, many of us been there. I haven't had any complaints, only suggestions, so now I am wondering what the fuss it!
JohnRoberts wrote on September 5, 2015, 3:42 PM
Just because you guys run the site doesn't obligate you to make posts or have to "check in." That's for members to keep this thing going. I guess what bugged people the most was the last log in dates and because the content site world has become skittish with so many going down, people worried about PP joining them and feeling abandoned. Maybe that was it. The site runs smooth with no issues or glitches and the needed advertisements are there and it is basically up to member participation to make it work.
elitecodex wrote on September 5, 2015, 4:10 PM
I had been logging in, and while not every day my last login is usually pretty close. Heather does also keep an eye on the site, but she may login from work, and while not logged in still viewing it. We haven't been able to put as much time into it as we would like. We are discussing our options, and I will be making a post by tomorrow night about how we are moving forward.
Kasman wrote on September 5, 2015, 4:48 PM
elitecodex MaeLou - I don't think anyone knew you weren't actually getting emails - that explains a lot! We don't expect a daily post from you but I don't understand why you would view the site without logging in - it would tell anyone checking your profile page that you were still keeping an eye on the site . . .
2PS: What about the official Persona Paper FaceBook page? It currently has 77 members but there doesn't seem to be much activity there although it could be a valuable outlet for little snippets of news and information. There is also Persona Paper Peeps - a closed group with 20 members but again little activity. I have had a request to join it pending for some weeks now!
WordChazer wrote on September 5, 2015, 4:59 PM
MaeLou elitecodex from my point of view I'm glad I'm not the only one who spent the summer running round like a blue backsided buzzing thing. I've not been logging in as much as I might like so I think I have missed most of the negativity that's been thrown at you.
Marvin the Paranoid Android had it right: LIFE. DON'T TALK TO ME ABOUT LIFE.
Good luck, God bless and I for one am looking forward to hearing what you have to say once you have had the conversation, be it good or bad.
WordChazer wrote on September 5, 2015, 5:02 PM
And, I have to say, this above coming from someone who leaves us in the shade for achieving STUFF DONE on a daily basis.
valmnz wrote on September 5, 2015, 5:05 PM
MaeLou I can understand your absence and your concerns. Family is important. So is re-evaluating where you stand with something. However, what I don't understand is that you've been reading posts without logging in. Isn't there a clause that says we, as members, are at risk of having our membership closed if we don't log in monthly? Sorry, I should have re-read that before I started writing. Maybe logging in before reading would have been one way for those concerned to know you've still been around.
1cmoneyspinner wrote on September 5, 2015, 5:25 PM
MaeLou - Was always aware of your family and work situation but ...
3- What do you mean you don't get the “contact eMails”. The link at the bottom of the site says “Contact Us”. That's what I always used. You used to respond to them before.
- I'm confused. What do you mean you don't get the “contact eMails”. If you don't get them, who does and why are they not responding to them??
CC: Elitecodex
JohnRoberts wrote on September 5, 2015, 5:53 PM
I never paid attention to whether you logged in or not. Or posted. I just read other people's comments about it. As long as PP runs smooth, I just go about my business.
wolfgirl569 wrote on September 5, 2015, 6:28 PM
Thank you bunches, but I would have went nuts raising kids, working full time, babysitting on the side, going to school myself full time, and trying to run a web site. MaeLou has me beat 10 times over and then some. I would comfortably dare anyone to take all of that on with a 2 year old in the house.
1DWDavisRSL wrote on September 5, 2015, 7:11 PM
Before I even read your post let me say how good it is to see you.
bestwriter wrote on September 5, 2015, 7:23 PM
This is a serious issue - you not getting emails. Hope this will be attended to early. Showing concern is not being negative which I am sure you will agree. Those who have had no issues are critical of those who have shown concern as they have issues that need to be dealt with.
2The day a site stops receiving feedback that will be its count down.
bestwriter wrote on September 5, 2015, 7:36 PM
Those who have shown concern love this site too and in fact are more active than those who criticise them for it. Showing concern is certainly not being negative nor does it come under ' complaining' . Discouraging feedback will be the site's undoing. A good site always encourages feedback. Both @Mae Lou and elitecodex have encouraged it . It is only because their 'contact' was not functional that they did not get back which they normally do.
1When full page Ads gobble up Persona pages which perhaps you have not experienced it is but fair that you show concern for those who are experiencing it. It is only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches. It is good for the site as a whole if such things are redressed.
HappyLady wrote on September 6, 2015, 3:06 AM
I have been here a while and not heard of these. Should have looked!
Paulie wrote on September 6, 2015, 5:18 AM
I understand that you and your husband are very busy with jobs and young kids. I could never do what you are doing in running this site. Thank you very much for the update.
jiangliu1949 wrote on September 6, 2015, 6:03 AM
You two are so busy and under pressure -we have to make allowance .I love personapaper and hope it will make great strides .
chrisandmark wrote on September 6, 2015, 1:19 PM
Hello from a newbie
I have a four year old male handful (after three very good girls) - wishing you both luck in actually getting online before his bedtime!
BarbRad wrote on September 6, 2015, 2:26 PM
Thanks for checking in with us. I have a tough time keeping up with everything I have to do in the real world, too, and I don't even have children at home. I hope you and Will have some time to slow down a bit this weekend and have that conversation about Persona Paper. I consider this my writing home, even though I don't have the time to post as much as I used to right now. I feel like I'm in limbo, not sure how much effort to put here until I hear what the direction is. I'm not so much concerned about adding the features you've talked about that take more programming time. I think the priority right now is working on those things that affect user experience, such as the loading time and intrusive or suggestive ads. We want site visitors to keep reading and returning. I just need reassurance that you and elitecodex are still committed to the site so that we will know we time invested here is not wasted. Most of us have to divide our time between many sites and we haven't any time to waste on sites not in it for the long haul. I'm hoping you can reassure us that Persona Paper isn't going anywhere anytime soon. With that assurance, I will feel good about spending as much time as possible here and continuing to promote the site.
carolscash wrote on September 6, 2015, 2:51 PM
I have not been here in awhile, but I am guessing that some have complained that you are not living your life on the computer. Good for you! I am sure that as site owners, you are aware that others will expect you to do that. Do what is best for your family! I think many of us are committed to this site and that we are willing to help in any way that we can. Feel free to share with us.
LoudMan wrote on September 6, 2015, 4:44 PM
Please hang inthere.
LoudMan wrote on September 6, 2015, 4:46 PM
Don't let complainers make you quit. Hang in there.
MaeLou wrote on September 6, 2015, 6:05 PM
If I check in, I'm usually at work, therefore, I don't "login."
I'm not on FB a whole lot these days and Will usually isn't on there barely at all. Could be why there is not a ton of activity on the official fb page. However, the Persona Paper Pees is not ours, so I don't know who is running that.
MaeLou wrote on September 6, 2015, 6:06 PM
No, membership is NOT closed if you do not login.
1Please read my response above to Kasman
MaeLou wrote on September 6, 2015, 6:09 PM
"I" personally do not get them. elitecodex checks them, they go to HIS email, not mine. I cannot comment why or who has not been responded to since I do NOT see what is coming in.
1MaeLou wrote on September 6, 2015, 6:10 PM
Just b/c I personally don't get the emails, doesn't mean Will doesn't.
1MaeLou wrote on September 6, 2015, 6:12 PM
We can't do too much about the ads or the speed of the site, especially when the speed of the site isn't slow for us at all. We cannot pinpoint why it would be happening to you.
cheri wrote on September 7, 2015, 12:28 AM
I understand that we also have our own lives outside Persona Paper that we need to attend to. Just glad that you posted again
TheMightyThor wrote on September 7, 2015, 4:16 AM
I'm not entirely settled on which way to turn this discussion. We're all experiencing time management, life management, and budget management constraints so I won't be the first casting the stone; however, finding that balance between home life and work life is essential. I think it's better to view a commitment we've made as 'A Calling' rather than an Obligation. I think this alternative view will strengthen our motivation toward our talents whether those talents are centered on 'journalism', 'music' or whatever else. Of course I consider writing for a newspaper journalism. Balancing the home and work life is hardly easy, but consider maybe getting your children involved in your work if possible, or asking friends and neighbors, and even other coworkers who may have extra time on their hands. Sit down with your boss and reveal to her that you are helping to manage a public-private publication, (Person'-Paper) and tell her what the work-load is like--he or she may just empathize with you, or be able to offer tips and strategies on how to merge the two.
MaeLou wrote on September 7, 2015, 9:14 AM
Our work and family life will always come first. We work our 40 hours a week, and will not push our paid job aside for this. There is absolutely NO INCOME in this site for us. We do not earn anything from it. As far as getting the children involved our kids are under 10 years old.
1HappyLady wrote on September 7, 2015, 11:27 AM
i COULD tell you that the speed of the site is slow today. It would be really unfair as I know it is something to do with my computer itself running slow. I think we need to be careful before we accuse the site.
HappyLady wrote on September 7, 2015, 11:31 AM
Good heavens! This is a recipe for losing a job. I would never tell my employer what other work I was doing. Most want you 100% committed to their venture and as for family. I think it most unfair for children to be pressed into working like this. They may grow up to resent it and anyway Mae Lou's kids are far too yound. It is easy for us all to have ideas but in the end, the people who know their situation best are Elite Codex and Mae Lou.
TheMightyThor wrote on September 7, 2015, 1:19 PM
There no need to get defensive. It was just an idea. And this idea may not work for them but it may work for somebody.
TheMightyThor wrote on September 7, 2015, 1:22 PM
I talked about possibly forming a merger. Not pushing anything aside. You'd be surprised at what children are willing to do to impress their parents these days.
BrenndaMarie wrote on September 7, 2015, 2:15 PM
I know, how it is. Everyone seems to be very busy these days. I haven't posted anything in awhile myself.
cmoneyspinner wrote on September 7, 2015, 5:44 PM
MaeLou , Elitecodex - No doubt you realize it's not good business practice not to respond to eMails, so I noticed you are looking for a Site Moderator to perform some tasks. That will probably address the complaints about non-responsiveness.
Per your comments below, you indicate you are not making any money from the site. Well then … what incentive do you and Will have to maintain this site? Are you saying there's nothing in it for you? Are you saying all the revenues go to the members? Is this site up for sale?
You could tell me to mind my own business. You have the right. Just asking since you mentioned it and it made me curious.
This is a nice site as far as a publishing platform. The community is also very nice. But the statements you have made are making me think whether or not to continue here. Y'all have jobs and this is not your source of income. But some people are using this site to generate an income stream.
MaeLou wrote on September 7, 2015, 6:22 PM
When the site started, we were making good money. We had what we needed and Google Adsense shut us down when we were ready to cash out. That was money lost and anyone who cashed out was paid out of our own pocket. Other advertisers do not pay as much, therefore, we're still trying to play "catch up." As of right now until we "catch up" all revenue IS going to the members.
1Site is NOT up for sale
alexdg1 wrote on September 7, 2015, 6:33 PM
I think that part of the problem is that quite a few of us are exiles from Bubblews and, consequently, many of the ex-Bubblers now have either unrealistic expectations for Persona Paper or are afraid that they will be treated as shabbily here as they were by Arvind Dixit and his team. Personally, I have no complaints about PP, Will, or you. You're not a big gazillion-dollar enterprise like Alphabet or Amazon, and you're obviously having to balance your online life with your offline reality. I know how that is, and I wish that other members would understand this, too.
2Shadi wrote on September 9, 2015, 7:28 AM
Does that mean payments are also delayed?
Lemark wrote on September 9, 2015, 2:34 PM
Your life is yours to live. And your decisions are your to take and act upon them. You don't owe us anything.
That said - I cheer for you that you make the right decisions - for yourself! I will support you no matter what you decide to do. This site included :)
MaeLou wrote on September 9, 2015, 2:36 PM
Payments have never been delayed, even if we weren't necessarily visible to the community on a constant basis. Payments are still being paid in a timely manner.
celticeagle wrote on September 10, 2015, 2:02 PM
Glad to hear how things are going. Of course all of these sites can pay better but at least we are being paid. Have to be adult about it and keep moving on or leave. (Us, not you.) Hope things continue here and maybe even get better, eh?
1SLGarcia wrote on September 10, 2015, 5:25 PM
I completely understand your post. I am in a similar position myself and haven't posted here all summer. Life has simply become far too busy for me!
PriscillaKing wrote on September 13, 2015, 3:42 PM
Glad you're back, MaeLou +MaeLou MaeLou (however the tags work here)...I find it hard to log in every month too, so I can relate.
Kath wrote on September 15, 2015, 9:10 PM
Hi MaeLou and thanks for the update. I always look forward to visiting persona paper... I like the format and that I can just log in from time to time as schedule permits. Thanks for keeping the site going.
Squidwhisperer wrote on September 16, 2015, 1:03 AM
Just dropping through for the first time in months and was a bit jolted by the "crisis." Due my ignorance, I won't wade in. Funny though, as I'm trying to type this, Miley Cyrus is yammering in my ear - from the site. Anyway, just wanted to throw some support your way for even maintaining this venture, especially with a young family. I'd like to say that I remember those days but I only partially remember those days - due to the chaos. Toddlers rule. Everything else is... attending to toddlers. My biggest relief came with the point where they no longer consider Lego as potential food... everything else is gravy.
Ruby3881 wrote on September 18, 2015, 3:00 PM
Bill, the Persona Peeps group is, I believe, owned by LdyJarhead, whom you may have met either here or on Bubblews. I'm not sure how often she checks the group page anymore, as she hasn't been active here in a long time. If I recall correctly, most of the posts there have very little to do with PP, these days.
Ruby3881 wrote on September 18, 2015, 3:04 PM
Between family stuff and the drama on Seraphic Insights, I've been AWOL for about a month myself. So I'm definitely not one to point any fingers! I am glad you & Will are both fine, and that any absence is due to outside obligations. You guys are still a far sight better than a lot of other site owners I can think of, even if you haven't had a lot of time to devote to the site lately!
Kasman wrote on September 18, 2015, 3:22 PM
Yes, she does own it. I have cancelled my ''pending'' request to join that group - it was ''pending'' for five weeks without response!
1VinceSummers wrote on September 18, 2015, 9:35 PM
Isn't that the ex-Marine lady? She was quite active at Yahoo. If she hasn't been on line, odds are she's flown the coop. That's my take. She's always in the thick of things she's actively involved with.
LoudMan wrote on September 22, 2015, 3:55 AM
The comments are interesting.
LadyDuck wrote on October 3, 2015, 4:05 AM
Hello MaeLou , I am glad I found your post. I have been very busy too and I know that we cannot always be online when we have other important things to do in life.
frankie2015 wrote on October 6, 2015, 9:15 PM
Good evening Maelou. I agree, life is hectic and working as hard as everybody does in this day and age is certainly not helping. But your latest post is just what everybody here needed. A little bit of reassurance, that's all.
I understand and agree with you totally.
mrtoffee wrote on October 9, 2015, 5:13 AM
Sometimes life just takes over, I totally understand your situation as my life for the last few months has been manic. No complaints from me, I think you guys do a sterling job, especially as you have a full time job and a family
carolyn wrote on October 25, 2015, 3:33 PM
I have been absent too for a while.
k_mccormick2 wrote on October 26, 2015, 2:47 PM
MaeLou , no worries we all get busy sometimes. Thanks for keeping us updated I know that I, personally, would not be able to do what you and Will do. I thank you both for everything that you are doing.
luisga814 wrote on November 23, 2015, 4:21 AM
The comments here are very interesting to read. It is okay for me in their absence of not posting around as long as they are reading our articles and comments. Thanks MaeLou and elitecodex . God bless and your family.
RapidBlue wrote on November 27, 2015, 9:28 AM
I was away with other projects but as a member of staff you are not obligated to post, just to monitor page if everything works well. The only question I have about the site is when it is going to rise the rate. that would be all I am interested in, nothing else.
LisaSteinmetz wrote on December 3, 2015, 5:11 PM
Personally I don't understand why folks are upset that your not posting all the time. Life happens, ya know?