Saturday, August 4, 2007

Time to think.....

[Fwd: [group name removed] Re: [HulaHut] Chris blog - Hawaii map]

> Thank you!
>
>
> On 8/1/07,
email@aol.com email@aol.com wrote:
>
>
>
> Hi gals,
>
> As promised, attached is the Hawaii map from Chris today :)
>
> name removed :)

_______________________________________________

But I left the smiley face in after the persons name. Glad the person was so happy to share my hard work.
.......
Well folks this was sent to me from a yahoo group. Not the first time. Someone has sent something to my attention. I have a lot of thinking about what to do.If you are reading this and you know you typed it. I removed your email address and name out of respect for your privacy. I have a feeling many people would not be to happy and would like to send you emails asking why you can't follow TOUs that are stated with every single download file. Every day. Especially since I have seen your name listed on a few of the cutter groups as well. Where people don't even pass out my password, but send people back to my blog to get it.

So on that note. I may need to figure out a new way to run my blog. This was not sent to a cutter group By the way, but yes a yahoo group. And thank you to the person who sent it to me out of respect for me, my files and my terms. Your honor will be forever respected.

My question is if I sign up with Constant Contact and send out the password weekly to a subscriber email list... this is a service I will have to pay for. Is this something people would be willing to do? I would just email out the password for the weeks files. Just trying to get a feel and an idea for what to do or not to do anymore. (Okay... so an update.. some confusion.. In giving my files away I would maintain a list with Constant Contact and pay the fees myself. I would not pass it onto those here. I would pay for it with my sales at Paperthreads. I just am wondering how many would consider even subscribing to get the password to download. Not to incur a cost. Just wanted to clear that up real quick with all the wonderful comments I am receiving. Thank you)

Or the other thought given to me is just to post the entire verbage her name and all and leave it at that. . There must not be a problem sharing her name much like the willingness to share my file. This is the less work for me, but not really my style. Any thoughts on this?

I have to say I started this blog in February and I love run it. I love the contact with everyone and the requests and doing something I love. This however is becoming a much more common thing. Which is inherent with running a blog of this nature. Sharing with one person is against the terms, but wow. I have listed my Terms of Use every day. and also offered it in pdf format.

I am off to think. Your thoughts are appreciated. and if anyone has a different avenue that I might take please let me know. I would really rather not shut down.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Thanks for stopping by even tho' I am not normally here on the weekends.
Chris

PS If you have read this and know the post came from you and have anything to say. Or if you are the owner of this group and want to email. please do so. I look forward to hearing from you.

65 comments:

Anonymous said...

Good luck. It really bites when you try to give your heart away and then somebody bites your hand off. I know!!!
Hang in there~

Anonymous said...

Hang in there!
It really bites when you try to hand your heart out and somebody bites your hand off.
I know!

kirst said...

I'm sorry someone has abused your trust like this. I hope you know that most of us who log in to your blog appreciate very much the time and trouble you take to make the files and your generosity in sharing them with us. Hugs.

Anonymous said...

Chris,

I am so sorry that there are people out there who don't want to respect your rules. They don't seem very difficult to understand and obey. I hope that you just deal with that person and understand that we aren't all like her/him. I for one am so in awe of your files and look forward to reading your blog and seeing what you and your family are up to everyday.

Alyse

Shirley Clark said...

Chris, my thoughts and prayers are with you as you work this all out in your heart and mind. I don't blame you for feeling hurt over this. Afterall, anyone can come here and get their own file. There is no reason to be dishonest about it.

Anonymous said...

Whatever and however you decide to handle this "sharing" situation, I'm sure we will all be behind you Chris. You are sooo very generous with your talents, there is no need to blatantly abuse your TOU. My goodness, how hard can it be to log into your blog and pick up the "free" files. What a shame there are always bad apples in the basket. *hugs* Helena

Anonymous said...

Chris,
I really hate it when someone ruins a good thing. I look forward everyday to reading your blog and seeing your files. It is the first thing I do when I get home from work. They are so great! I guess it is how I unwind from the day. When I go on vacation and can't get your files, I look to see what I missed and go to paperthreads to purchase them. We will all support whatever decision you make, but it makes me sad that you even have to make such a decision. What is wrong with people! I know you'll do the right thing.
Kathy

Anonymous said...

Chris-

I saw this and I was sick...you work so hard and I know for myself I look forward to your posts...I think that a monthly charge would be well worth the service that you provide!

Sorry this happened!

Have a good week-end anyway!

Unknown said...

Hi Chris
I look forward to your blog and free files everyday and am sad when I am away and miss a file...so off I go to purchase the missed files from paperthreads...I have most of your files and I will not ever share them with anyone even my best cutter friend...I send people to your blog...it is so easy to come here and get the file for the day.
It saddens me to think that some one would do that with your file and how many other ones has she given away. Whatever you decide to do with the sharing situation I will be behind you. Thanks for all the fantastic files, don't be disheartened,keep up the great work. Big((HUG)) Cara

Anonymous said...

Chris, If it was me. I would contact that person thou the yahoo group. Let them know how it makes you feel.

If you want to send your links via email or the pass word via email, i would say go for it. You could even have a "CLUB" and require the persons information, even charge a yearly fee. I have seen that on a web site or two. A $10 fee to join the club, i would join.. I doubt the people who share will change or stop sharing. I do know i love your files, and respect the amount of time spent on them. How ever you handle it will be fine by me.

Angie

Anonymous said...

Chris,
All I can say is that I support you completely. Whatever you decide is the best for you is the best answer in my mind. Hugs,
Shae

Anonymous said...

Hi Chris,

This really stinks!! Yep, I'm here with you on Saturday. I often stop in on weekends and re-read your blog. I love the pictures that you post. Your blog opens up your part of the world to the rest of us. I especially loved reading about your birthday squirt gun water party! I would have NEVER been so creative. And honestly, seeing all of that water in the middle of all of the dry earth around was interesting. You are so talented and kind for sharing your files with us, what-ever you decide I know it will be what is best. I am sorry for you, I can't imagine how you feel. Hugs to you from all of your cyber friends.....
joanne

Unknown said...

Chris,
First thanks for all you have shared. I enjoy your blogs and respect all your talent and efforts you put into your files. Shame on whoever did this. I will also respect your next move,whatever your decide.

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry your having to go through this Chris. I am a new owner of a knk and am so new to the cutter world. I was so blown away that you offered a free file for me and others each day. I honestly can't wait for each day to come on and check out your blog.
I am heartbroken that someone can't follow the simple instructions that you asked of us. So simple! So little!!
I really wish you had posted the gals name for us to email ourselves.
Again, I am so sorry you have to deal with this.
Kathy

Anonymous said...

Chris,
I enjoy reading about your life each day and being lucky enough to take advantage of your free files. I'm sorry others can't respect that. While it may not be the gentlest thing, I would out the offender. I don't think that one bad apple should force you to throw in the towel here and pay for a service just so all of us can have free files. That's too much of a sacrifice for you especially when it's not your fault! I'm sure you know in your heart the right thing to do and I'm praying that whatever you decide to do makes you happy. *gentle hugs*

Anonymous said...

I too am sorry to hear what has happened. I have enjoyed your blog and appreciated you sharing your creative talents. I just want you to know that others share your pain and will continue to support you.

Jackie said...

Chris,
I had someone I trusted disapointed me at work this week. Like you I felt hurt and betrayed. Give it to God and you'll know how to handle this person. I just hope you continue sharing your wonderful files.

Dayme said...

Chris,
I was horrified to see the post today. I think its just terrible that rotten people somehow manage to wiggle their way into our lives. Take all the time you need...I feel confident in saying that whatever you decide, you will retain the respect, loyalty, and friendship of those worth having!

Dayme

Anonymous said...

I personally know how much time and effort it takes to make a file. I also know how much of yourself you give so freely to run this blog....

I am very blessed to call you my friend and it hurts me that you have been wronged in this way!

It makes me look at the world in a whole another light!

Want me to hunt them down and kick their butt!!! I WILL!!!!!

Lori

Isabelle said...

Some people are really rude and dishonest. I agree with the contact list or the club idea. I would estimate the cost and ask for donations by Paypal or a club fee (5-10$ a year).

I love your work and I really hope these people won't spoil it for others that respect your TOU.

Anonymous said...

Chris,

Please know that there are many who follow your blog and respect your work! I for one, so appreciate your willingness to share your files! While I love my WB, I do not have the time, energy or talent to even think about making my own files. Even if I could, I know they would pale in comparison to your's. As a mom trying to stick to a tight budget, I also appreciate the fact that you offer your files to us for free. Please know you have the respect of many and we will support you amd your decisions.
-Diane

Anonymous said...

Chris,

First of all, I like so many others that visit your blog everyday am very grateful that you share with us; especially those of us that are much less creative and need the help!!!!

I have heard of this happening before to other people and even if it's not exactly the right thing to do, I think it's time to out the people doing this. Why is it that one person has to screw everything up for everyone else? Sorry to be on my soap box, but it really makes me mad that people can be so selfish.

I love reading your blog and hope that you continue and if the person or people that think doing this is okay is reading this: FIND SOMETHING MORE PRODUCTIVE TO DO WITH YOUR TIME. GET A LIFE!!!

Seriously & Madly yours,
crazyk472

Anonymous said...

Chris, you have been so generous to share your files for free. It is horrible that someone shares them like this. If I miss a file I go and buy it. I think you need to just sell your files. They aren't expensive. It probably won't stop some idiot from sharing it, but maybe that idiot won't buy the file. Please realize that the vast majority of us appreciate and love your files. thanks. Sue

Unknown said...

I would make it a policy to out the offenders when things like this happen. I don't believe that's harsh because, as you said, they're already outing themselves to 500 people. To drastically change what you WANT to do because of a few offenders ... who will always exist ... hurts you, not them. FYI - I'm watching Paperthreads for some of your newer things to appear so I can purchase them. Thanks for the great files ... no matter how you decide to handle this!

Anonymous said...

I just got home and was shocked at what someone did. You are very talented and so generous to offer some wonderful files. It's sad that some people can't follow the rules.
Hang in there!!!

Jayne

Dana said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Dana said...

That really stinks. i for one appreciate the fact that you share your talents. Totally unacceptable that someone would do that. If you want to do a pay service that would stink.. but totally understable and I would more then likely sign up as I love your designs. They are one of the only ones I pay for at Paperthreads.

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry this has happened to you. I do come here often to get the files but mainly to read about a person that I have a few things in come with and kinda as a "gal pal" type of enviornment. I hope this doesn't affect your sharing but I can completely understand if this ruins what has been a fun leisury daily activity for many of us of simply visitin with you.

Liz

TammyB said...

Wow - I'm not 100% sure what's going on but let me say that it doesn't sound good. I'm sorry someone violated your TOU. I belong to a Yahoo group for fonts and if you violate his TOU - he outs you on the board, providing your username and email address. But I understand that that isn't easy for everyone to do - I personally wouldn't have any problems doing it but you seem to be a much sweeter person - LOL Hey, want me to beat them up for you?? Whatever you decide - I've only just downloaded the one .ai file here and was so excited. But I would totally understand if you needed to step back and re-evaluate how you are running things. Take care....(((hugs)))

Anonymous said...

I Just found out about your blog a couple of weeks ago when i got my new cutter. I LOVE checking out your amazing work. You are so talented. I was amazed at how you share your talent with us untalented. And for free. God Bless you. It amazes me how someone could be so disrespectful to you!!!! My prayers are with you on making this hard decision. I dont know what I would do either. But I know we will all respect your decision!!!!

NHSpeechGirl said...

I must be slow because it took me a while to figure out what had happened. I just couldn't imagine that someone would be so thoughtless. I'm sorry you are dealing with this. I love your block and am so grateful for your files.

Anonymous said...

Chris,
As I sit here in Pj's rereading your blog entery for today, I have tears for you, and for myself too. I love the files, the blog and just the community spirit that you have. I am so sorry that this has happened to you and hope that the person who shared your files can see the wrong, in what they have done. I am willing to pay for my files and will go to paperthreads if that is what the outcome is. But the one thing that I do ask of you is that you continue to share with us your daily life through your blog.
I went to coltonsfriend and was touched by the account of little colton and how fragile life can be. I also could picture you out getting your horses water when you had well problems. So whatever the outcome, I hope that I will continue to get a glimpse into your creativity. My heart and hugs go out to you during this difficult time. Hugs Nina

Anonymous said...

Chris,
I am so sorry that someone has gone against your guidelines, especially when you put so much of your self into your designs and are so generous. I look forward to checking your blog daily and love getting a new little surprise and also to see how you and your family are doing.
No advice on the mis-use, but a big hug and HUGE Thank you for the gift you give us every day!!

Debbi (no 'e' on the end) said...

Oh Chris I am so sorry that this happened. I just hate it when people can't play fair & follow some simple rules. After almost loosing Mary to someone who thought it was ok to not play fair I do not want it to happen with you. I come here first thing every day & continue to check as the day goes on until I see your posting as sometimes even Google Reader doesn't show your postings. I don't know what I would do if you weren't here for us. I agree with Judy....I think the public outing would be very appropriate for anyone who couldnt' follow your TOU's. Hopefully that would get them blacklisted from all the lists. That in itself should be a motivator I would think. Good luck with whatever you decide to do...we will all be there for ya.
Big Hugs to you my dear Chris.

Anonymous said...

Chris-
I love your work and this just stinks! To put it nicely. I look forward to checking your blog everyday and I have even purchased files that I have missed. It is too bad someone has to ruin it for all of us. I belong to a yahoo group that is a fan of your work and no one has ever compromised the TOU. What ever you decide, all of your faithful followers will stand behind you.

Anonymous said...

Chris
I too feel the same way all the others who have already posted feel. You are an amazing, talanted and sweet person, and it is aweful that someone would take advantage of your generosity. I enjoy reading your blog on a daily basis. If you need to charge, or just put your files for sale at Paperthreads then go for it. I will definetely support you. (I vote for still posting here though, because I feel like it's my birthday everyday, not knowing what I'm gonna get!)

Amber

Anonymous said...

Chris,

I am sorry that this has happened to you again. I know that it is upsetting. I come daily to your blog to read what you have to say and what you are doing. I will support you in your decision that you make with your files.

Melissa

Heather Huggins said...

That totally sucks. I can't believe people can be so thoughtless! I just started doing some of my own files and know how much work they are. What ever you decide if fine by me. I love to come here to just read about you and your family. The files are just a bonus and if I miss some I just jump over to paperthreads and pick them up. My prayers are with you...

Heather

Anonymous said...

I would so be willing to pay a yearly/monthly fee to help offset the cost to you....just let us know....as YOUR FILES ROCK!!!
kris

Karen said...

Chris,
You are so talented and have been so generous to share your files. I would be willing to chip in to pay for the password service or any kind of subscription fee.

You might want to consider contacting the owner of the Yahoo group, describe the situation and the violation of your TOU, and ask that this person be put on moderated status or even suspended from the group. If there was no cooperation at the group owner level then I would contact Yahoo Groups directly and see if they would suspend this person from all of Yahoo Groups.

Anonymous said...

WOW, 500 people she shared this with??? Wonder if she would take the time herself to make just ONE file a WEEK and share it for free with 500 of them???

Chris, again thank you for sharing your talents so freely with us. I look forward to reading your blog every day.

I too belong to that Font group and he will post your name in a heartbeat if you "cheat". And this is what has been done to you, they are cheating!

I'm sure you will make a good decision about what to do. After all, it is your time and talent that is shared here and I thank you soooooooo much for your generosity.

Anonymous said...

Hi Chris,
I am so sorry that you've had to encounter this situation. What a bummer! I LOVE and respect your files so much, and am very sorry that someone would share them like this. I would definitely subscribe (and even be willing to pay a fee to access your files). I check in daily and enjoy so much your willingness to share your hard work, thoughts on life, and ideas!! Keep your chin up,
Jessica in Kansas

Jill M said...

I was the one that posted the notice that the file was not correct, and now the file is not available. Would it be possible that you can email me the file, if not I will buy it at Paperthreads as it is such a cute file.

I am truly sorry that people can not abide by you very simple request concerning the files and sharing them. I have told several people about your wonderful file and they have started coming for the free bees. I would certainly understand if you quite doing them and just sold them on Paperthread, whatever your decision is I would support you to the hilt. I would miss getting them for free but understand your position.

Jamie said...

Wow, the audacity of some people. I don't really know what you should do. I will say I sort of liked the idea of having a blacklist where you list those that have went against your terms of service but then again stuff like that angers me. I haven't purchased any of your files yet. But I did miss one, it was a set of letters for a word book and I will purchase it as soon as I actually learn how to turn the wb on. :)

Anonymous said...

Chris,

Whatever you decide, I will support your decision. Thank-you for all your hard work. I love your files, and would be sadden to see the free files leave,but I understand that you can not have people "stealing" from you. Rosalie

Anonymous said...

Wow, what a collection of hypocrisy and pollyannaism! You've got your panties in a wad because someone shared a FREE file with a group of 14 women. One of THEM obviously forwarded the share to the larger group with 500+ people. Perhaps that person should be the target of your venom? But guess what - it's a stupid computer file. It's not the cure to cancer. It's not something that will hurt anything other than your pride and your inflated ego. Wah wah wah! Take it as a compliment that your work is so appreciated, that people want to share it with others. Get over yourself...and all you little lemmings with your kiss-ass comments, get a life! If you put this much time and energy into something important (like that cure to cancer) just imagine!!!

Anonymous said...

Chris..
It really stinks someone cant follow simple rules! I hate it when someone does something from the kindness of their heart to have it ruined by selfishness! I too appreciate all your hard work and kindness to share!

Anonymous said...

I so agree with everyone else, this is just so horrible! I look forward to your blog everyday, I love your free downloads, because even though I have had my cutter for over a year, I still have no earthly idea as to how to create hardly anything. What I do not understand is why this person did this and not just send out a link to your blog instead? Your blog is great, I love to hear about your life, so much more fun than mine!!!
I love your kindness for sharing and I will respect whatever it is you decide to do. BIG HUGS to you as you try to figure things out.

Anonymous said...

I started coming to you blog about 3 months. It is a daily routine for me to see what you have to say and a new file. Most of us respect you request not to share but you always get one bad seed the bunch. I hope you can figure out a way to keep you blog going.

sussann said...

I'm so sorry someone felt the need to abuse your generosity like that. Massive, massive hugs!

Anonymous said...

Hello Chris,
Some people just don't understand what a privilege it is to be able to get to use the files you create whether by free download or purchase. These are so reasonably priced that it's not even worth me trying to design them myself and be frustrated with the outcome. It was very disrespectful of her and whatever decision you choose, I respect that and will continue to be loyal to your work.

Angie said...

A comment to the person who sent the file to a group of 14. you passed along the file! Your right its not cancer, to compare cancer with sharing files only shows your lack of concise for those who suffer with such a disease. It does take hours to compete a file and it’s pretty much the same as stealing when you send it to others when you have been asked not to.

Angie one of the “ lemming"

KathyinMN said...

As someone who is new to cutting and trying got get used to their new Pazzles, I found both your files and blog to be very helpful in kickstarting my own creative process. Whatever you decide to do with your files - thanks for sharing what you have and I hope you at least continue blogging and showing off your new files here-(share or not). I love reading about you and how you come up with stuff. You're simply amazing.

KathyinMN said...

As someone who is new to cutting and tryin got get used to their new Pazzles, I found both your files and blog to be very helpful in kickstarting my own creative process. Whatever you decide to do with your files - thanks for sharing what you have and I hope you at least continue blogging and showing off your new files here-share or not.

Unknown said...

Sorry ... I'm still laughing from:

"Anonymous said...
Wow, what a collection of hypocrisy and pollyannaism! ..."

Talk about putting it into perspective! As harsh as the comments are, there is some truth to the post.

As I said before, I'd out the person (or people) as they do it and move on. Otherwise, you're letting strangers ruin something you obviously enjoy. Think of how many people get enjoyment out of what you do (including you) and don't abuse your policy. Don't give the bad ones that much power! In the end, it should be all about what you WANT to do.

Deneen said...

Chris,

I only recently found your blog and love. I for one couldn't believe that you offered a free file everyday. Wow! Your generosity is beyond measure. I for on hope you do not stop offering your files and would be willing to pay a monthly fee. If you collect a dollar from each member per month,that should cover the costs. Either way my prayers are with you and keep your head up.
Dee

sharonh said...

Chris,
I love your blog and your files. You are incredibly generous with your time and talent. What a shame that some people cannot respect terms and abuse the privileges you have given. Blessings to you!

Gerrie said...

Not sure of the the details of what happened but wanted you to know how much I have appreciated your generosity with your files and of your life. I enjoy reading your blog and downloading your awesome files. I only hope one day to be as familiar with my wishblade to create more than just a welded title. Thanks so much for all you do.

Ginny said...

well you know I LOVE your work and this is the first place I come when I get online...I for one would miss your freebies but you gotta do what you gotta do...

heidilynn said...

wHi Chris. I am so sorry that you have had to go through all of this junk. You are such a wonderful, kind, creative and sharring person and it just isn't fair. My thoughts are with you.

Anonymous said...

Interesting that the person who posted to say those of us who support Chris's rules are "lemmings" didn't have the guts to leave their name. Also interesting that the person appears not to read before jumping the gun... Chris IS peeved at the person who shared the 500, not the person who shared 14, mind you, she has every right to be peeved at you because the rules are NO SHARING. Get your friends to download it themselves like the rest of us have to!

Chris, I love your blog and I would really miss your files if you feel the need to pull them. I would willingly join a group with or without a fee, in order to continue enjoying your creative talents. All support to you as you make your decision!

Anonymous said...

What a shame - I've just found you and I think your designs are wonderful - I send other people to your blog and have purchased files that I've missed. I'd be more than happy to sign up for files if that's the safest way

Lillykins

Unknown said...

Chris, (and to Owners of other groups) PLEASE out this individual so that she will not be welcome in other groups. PLEASE as group owners, ban those that aren't able to follow rules. Make there be a consequence for her behavior.

ELIANA said...

Hi Chris, Just wanted to let you know that I visit your blog often and appreciate the hard work you put in your wonderful files and the willingness to share it with us. I am sorry you had to go through all of this. I had a similar thing happen to me and it is devastating. I would like to be included in your email list please. Have a wonderful week. Hugs,
Eli

Anonymous said...

Oh my gosh, Chris, I am SO very sorry that you were violated like this! Wow. I went over to paperthreads after missing the Hawaii map and happily bought it, having gotten several wonderful designs from you for free. It's always sad to miss a freebie, but NEVER okay to steal, which is exactly what this person did. If you decide to do subscription, I'd be interested, depending on the cost. Your designs are fabulous. What about maybe a monthly subscription program? I don't know, just thinking out loud. ;-D

Best to you and yours,

September - off to Hawaii tomorrow!

**