posted
Hey guys! I havent really posted here much, mainly on the fruits and veggies page. But I wanted to share this. Making friends isnt easy, ya know? So, on another web site I frequent, I was trying to get more involved with a certain board. Found out, if you use "blinkies" there, you're basically considered untouchable! I wont go into too much detail. Let's just say I posted at the wrong place at the wrong time, and got to feeling like a total outcast.
Anyway, I thought maybe you all would understand! This is where I should be, trying to connect. You all seem pretty wacky and fun loving.
That's all, just reaching out and saying hi!
Karen
Plants: 264 | From: Lehigh Valley, PA | Registered: Sep 2005
| Seeded: 24.229.242.122
* * * * ~Tina Getting old is the pits. But it sure beats the alternative. My Blog Plants: 7549 | From: So. Cal. | Registered: Nov 2005
| Seeded: 71.103.161.230
posted
Well I think some are wackier than others of course!! I come and go around here so don't be surprised if you don't see me for a few months at a time.
Hugs
* * * *
GO DAWGS! Plants: 3479 | From: The Idaho Boonies | Registered: Apr 2005
| Seeded: 69.21.8.60
loz
guest
posted
Karen, stick around here---we're a wacky, fun-loving bunch!
quote: Found out, if you use "blinkies" there, you're basically considered untouchable! I wont go into too much detail. Let's just say I posted at the wrong place at the wrong time, and got to feeling like a total outcast.
What the......! That is awful! I swear, I am so glad I found this place FIRST, and didn't have to look any further for a gardening forum. I was welcomed here with open arms...from my very first post, which I probably even put in the wrong place.
You just got a big cyber hug from me!
* * * * Buckle up! It makes it harder for the aliens to suck you out of your car! Plants: 43285 | Registered: Mar 2004
| Seeded: 70.35.241.223
posted
Karen, that is just not right. We are all wacky and crazy here so forget that other place and make your home here with us! We will treat you right!
* * * * We are all under the same stars... therefore we are never far apart. Plants: 30076 | From: Washington, the state that is... | Registered: Aug 2004
| Seeded: 66.235.45.83
posted
Okay 'Sparagus, what the heck is a "blinkie"??? I am soooooooooooo curious...
quote: You all seem pretty wacky and fun loving.
Cindy and Laura are the wacky one's, I'm fun loving ...
But this site really is a nice family orientated group... Who love gardening, and doin' a bit o' yakkin' on the side too! *We'd be havin' a serious Backyard BBQ if everyone lived closer too*
And remember, GOD works in MYSTERIOUS WAYS 'Sparagus.. He puts people in our paths...
* * * * Weezie
Don't forget to be kind to strangers. For some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it. - Bible - Hebrews 13:2
* * * * We are all under the same stars... therefore we are never far apart. Plants: 30076 | From: Washington, the state that is... | Registered: Aug 2004
| Seeded: 66.235.45.83
posted
Blinkies are little things you can put in your posts to make them more colorful, and maybe tell others about you a little.
Plants: 264 | From: Lehigh Valley, PA | Registered: Sep 2005
| Seeded: 24.229.242.122
posted
Oh those are way cute. I just found a bunch of them. Thanks for the tip!
* * * * We are all under the same stars... therefore we are never far apart. Plants: 30076 | From: Washington, the state that is... | Registered: Aug 2004
| Seeded: 66.235.45.83
loz
guest
posted
quote: Cindy and Laura are the wacky one's, I'm fun loving
Yeh, but Cindy is the seriously wacky one...I'm just a wacky one in training!
Seeded: 70.109.86.202
posted
'Sparagus looks like I will be the first old man here to give you a cyberhug(((((((((((((((((((hug)))))))))))))))))))). I was on 5 gardening? sites before I found this . Could not get an answer from any of them when I would ask something it was ether ignored or someone would say "I thought everyone knew that" . Since finding this place I took them off my favorites in about an hour. I think it may have been Vanessa or Cindy that helped me first then Weezie and Loz and Catlover was right there as was Ducky. I sure miss Catlover and Duckey. But peppereater should be here before long wrapping his cyber arms around you. Welcome to the forum. If there is anyway I can help you let me know I will try my best to help anyway I can.
* * * * Meet Clyde my Male Sugar Glider. Clyde says. Keep it organic GOD BLESS THE U.S.A. Pray for our Troops!
posted
As a sociologist currently doing research about the type of people who join forum communities, I've observed the gardenhelper site for several months. Though this site shares many common traits with other forums, there are some unique differences.
My study excludes casual members who limit their forum participation to plant topics, focusing instead on members who, to paraphrase them, consider this forum to be their "home". The gardenhelper community seems to engage in less blatant back-biting that other similar forums, however, co-existing with the good-natured camaraderie and obvious caring among members, I discern a subtle, disturbing undercurrent. Some of the regular posters to this site, particularly those with inordinately high number of posts, exhibit an unusual devotion to the gardenhelper community, such as that found amongst individuals attracted to certain dysfunctional self-help groups and cults. Certainly not all members fall into this category but there seems to be a rather disproportionate number compared to other forums.
As enough preliminary data are collected from gardenheper.com, I will be moving onto the next case study, however, if anyone is interested in learning more about the current study, have any questions, or are interested in receiving a copy of the study once it is published, feel free to PM me. I will check for messages for at least a couple weeks, longer if interest exists.
posted
Did we all just get psychoanylized? ..... . . . . AGAIN!!!!!!
We MUST be nutz!
Sonja, I don't need a copy of your "report" , but if you could write us a movie script or maybe send your info to Oprah, she could get us all together for a wildest dreams reunion!
Hugs for you, 'Sparagus!! No one is ridiculed here! We all learn, every day.
posted
GOOD MORNING! Whoa.....very interesting....
quote:As a sociologist currently doing research about the type of people who join forum communities, I've observed the gardenhelper site for several months.
Thank you all for all your replies
All those messages kept me from jumping on and seeing what was going on in anti-blinkie land.....
Well my "boss" is whining, back at naptime, if that ever happens!
Karen Plants: 264 | From: Lehigh Valley, PA | Registered: Sep 2005
| Seeded: 24.229.242.122
loz
guest
posted
quote: Some of the regular posters to this site, particularly those with inordinately high number of posts, exhibit an unusual devotion to the gardenhelper community, such as that found amongst individuals attracted to certain dysfunctional self-help groups and cults.
WOW!
We're being compared to a dysfunctional self help group and cults.
I'm not sure how often she's been here on the site in her months of study. Most of us have bonded through our love of gardening, and through the years it's progressed into "real" friendships and relationships. Many of us have actually met other members, or talk on the phone with other members often--sometimes daily. We're here to offer support to each other, and love, and to laugh and cry with each other. We care about each others days, problems, triumphs, and trials. I don't call that dysfunctional---I call that functional!
This is our internet "home" and I truly know there isn't a better net place to be, or a better group of people to be here with.
Seeded: 70.109.67.67
quote:Some of the regular posters to this site, particularly those with inordinately high number of posts, exhibit an unusual devotion to the gardenhelper community, such as that found amongst individuals attracted to certain dysfunctional self-help groups and cults.
boy did she miss the boat on me!! BUT...
as a psych major hoping to minor in sociology, there are some very serious points... and i am glad that sonja discovered that WE ARE NICE!!!
{{{{{'sparagus }}}}} you are hugged, well and truly!
and, i'm glad you inspired sonja to post! from a clinical aspect, we are a unique group, and from a web perspective we are even more unique!
so, if normal isn't like us, i don't want to be normal!!!
ok, off here to start work! have a good day everyone!
Seeded: 69.41.96.32
posted
I agree Jiffy. But nobody ever said we were normal. Also seems to me she needs to take up gardening and unwind some. She wants to analyze us we want to analyze our garden's and plants and see how we can improve them and make very good and close friends while we are at it. How can you beat that. Cult no dysfunctional not hardly I know blood families that are not as functional as we are. Maybe she just needs a cyber hug. Here Sonja just for you ((((((((hugs)))))
* * * * Meet Clyde my Male Sugar Glider. Clyde says. Keep it organic GOD BLESS THE U.S.A. Pray for our Troops!
posted
I do see where she is coming from. But I think her posting on this thread is a little odd. Kind of makes her seem a little less legit to me. It would have probably been more appropriate for her to start her own thread introducing herself, and telling us about what she's been up to.
A first post, here, and using the words "dysfunctional" and "cult" kinda gets me thinking "troll"...Im not making an accusation, but it seems like it could be taken the wrong way and start trouble. Someone who's been researcing these types of communities would definitely know that.
As long as it wasnt a hit and run post, and she can explaine a little more (maybe in a new thread) I wont think it was done to get anyone upset.
And thanks again for all your replies!!! This has made my day.
OK, must finish cleaning cockatiel Cherry's cage, and get out and dig some daisies Im relocating before the sun gets too strong!
K
Plants: 264 | From: Lehigh Valley, PA | Registered: Sep 2005
| Seeded: 24.229.242.122
afgreyparrot those banners are cool! did you make them? where do i find something like that.I like the happy hour one.. I just saw a sticker on a back of a car that said stupidity should be painful...kinda sad, yet kinda funny in a sick way..unless i have a warped humor...possibly.
* * * * Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is painting that speaks. Plutarch Plants: 11590 | From: WI | Registered: May 2006
| Seeded: 64.12.117.7
quote:Originally posted by JV: I agree Jiffy. But nobody ever said we were normal. Also seems to me she needs to take up gardening and unwind some.
I also agree!!! But the question here is what is Normal???? Normal for one person is not necessarily normal for another.....And gardening can be relaxing if you allow it to be.
Welcome Karen...I read your posts and you are not left out!!! ((((((((((HUGS))))))))))
quote: Some of the regular posters to this site, particularly those with inordinately high number of posts, exhibit an unusual devotion to the gardenhelper community
After being on the net for nearly 9 years (July 4, 1997), and supporting one another through the deaths, the births and the disasters of our members, we DO some very devoted "family" members here, but we certainly aren't a cult!
quote: inordinately high number of posts
You can post in a lot of topics in nine years time!
quote: such as that found amongst individuals attracted to certain dysfunctional self-help groups and cults.
... and I'm the king of Dysfunction Junction!!!
* * * * Plants: 11227 | From: Cedar Hill Washington | Registered: Aug 2002
| Seeded: 69.33.97.176
posted
All I have to say is that if we are indeed dysfunctional and cultish, let me in. Cuz this kind of family is so much more supportive and understanding than many out there in the "real" world.
* * * * We are all under the same stars... therefore we are never far apart. Plants: 30076 | From: Washington, the state that is... | Registered: Aug 2004
| Seeded: 66.235.45.83
Bill, is it possible to come up with a hugging graemlin?
I have a question about Sonja's study and it's publication: is she allowed to specifically name thegardenhelper.com? Is it considered libel if she does? After all the work the hostesses and Bill, and our other unofficial bouncers, have put into this forum I hate to think what might happen if those comments were actually put in print and distributed to who knows where? Am I the only one concerned about this?
* * * * "As long as there are tests, there will be prayer in public schools" - Maxine Plants: 3903 | From: Maine | Registered: Oct 2005
| Seeded: 72.65.101.37
posted
quote: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Some of the regular posters to this site, particularly those with inordinately high number of posts, exhibit an unusual devotion to the gardenhelper community
Its called having friends and talking with people who care!
quote: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- such as that found amongst individuals attracted to certain dysfunctional self-help groups and cults. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I can only speak for myself, but let me say this, i am not one who is or ever easily influenced by anyone, i have made some great friends on here and wouldnt trade them for anything, and i can honestly say that i am a little offended by the cult comment, but i need to ask, did you have a bad experience on here to make you think that?
posted
P.S. to my earlier post: I too have made some wonderful friends here. Everyone is so supportive and kind and I was welcomed in with open arms. Times that I've been off for a few days I was sent PMs just to make sure I was ok!
I have a hard time making friends (because I have been stabbed in the back and used so many times) but this forum is world-wide and it is so easy to find people to really connect with and not be afraid of getting intentionally hurt! Not to say we don't have any disagreements and misunderstandings, but everyone here is so tolerant and forgiving, and mature that it's easy to accept and respect our differences.
I have learned so much about gardening that I can't wait till the weather gets warmer and I can share all my successes and failures with my Forum family!
Plus I can get on here anytime and not worry if I haven't taken a shower yet or my hair and make-up aren't perfect or I'm just wearing sweats or still in my pjs or my face is swollen from allergies... (and no one can hear me yelling at my kids...)
* * * * "As long as there are tests, there will be prayer in public schools" - Maxine Plants: 3903 | From: Maine | Registered: Oct 2005
| Seeded: 72.65.101.37
* * * * "As long as there are tests, there will be prayer in public schools" - Maxine Plants: 3903 | From: Maine | Registered: Oct 2005
| Seeded: 72.65.101.37
Jiffymouse
guest
posted
quote:Originally posted by BeckyB: Hugs to you Karen! And a kiss too!
Bill, is it possible to come up with a hugging graemlin?
I have a question about Sonja's study and it's publication: is she allowed to specifically name thegardenhelper.com? Is it considered libel if she does? After all the work the hostesses and Bill, and our other unofficial bouncers, have put into this forum I hate to think what might happen if those comments were actually put in print and distributed to who knows where? Am I the only one concerned about this?
good question becky! usually, if you name participants in a study, you have to have their WRITTEN permission. otherwise, it is considered an "actionable" offense. bill and i will have to check with our legal teams (personal for each of us, but they will advise when necessary for the site) to see if we need more info.
Seeded: 69.41.96.224
* * * * "As long as there are tests, there will be prayer in public schools" - Maxine Plants: 3903 | From: Maine | Registered: Oct 2005
| Seeded: 72.65.101.37
I second EVERYTHING that EVERYONE ELSE has responded to you here. And I must add, that your blasting in here with your commentaries out of NOWHERE is rather dysfunctional at the least. As someone else here said - how about joining the GH and introducing yourself, before SNEAKING around here and psychoanalyzing us without permission?
And, as Becky has said... you might think about getting written permission from any of us that you might intend to quote, before doing so. It's the courteous thing to do, ya know?!?
Karen...
Lynne
* * * * Lynne's knitting journal "I'm spayed, declawed, and housebound - how's YOUR day going???" Plants: 17066 | From: Rockland County, NY | Registered: Nov 2003
| Seeded: 69.125.135.161
posted
Im not worried about it. I think she is bogus, because like I said earlier, why would she post in the middle of this thread? And where is she? Although I did PM her a link to the site where I was having trouble, and if she checked it out, she wont have any need to come back here!!
Actually, once I did run into someone who was writing a book and wanted to quote me and some others from the site, and I did email her written permission.
Thank you all for your warm welcome and support. I better get outside now! My mini garden helper is getting antsy!
Karen
Plants: 264 | From: Lehigh Valley, PA | Registered: Sep 2005
| Seeded: 24.229.242.122
quote:Originally posted by 'Sparagus: I do see where she is coming from. But I think her posting on this thread is a little odd. Kind of makes her seem a little less legit to me. It would have probably been more appropriate for her to start her own thread introducing herself, and telling us about what she's been up to.
I agree...
quote:Originally posted by Sonja53: ...I discern a subtle, disturbing undercurrent. Some of the regular posters to this site, particularly those with inordinately high number of posts, exhibit an unusual devotion to the gardenhelper community, such as that found amongst individuals attracted to certain dysfunctional self-help groups and cults.
Well.........
With my "inordinately high number of posts", and my obvious "devotion to the gardenhelper community"...(and judging by my signature line I am obviously a die-hard "Bill Groupie") ... .......plus it's no big secret I am pretty "dysfunctional"...
That kinda makes me feel like the head guinea pig!
Cindy (oink oink)
* * * * Buckle up! It makes it harder for the aliens to suck you out of your car! Plants: 43285 | Registered: Mar 2004
| Seeded: 70.35.241.223
* * * * "Lord, I love you and I need you, come into my heart, and bless me, my family, my home, and my friends, in Jesus' name. Amen!" Plants: 6492 | From: Illinois | Registered: Feb 2006
| Seeded: 199.217.139.113
Okay--well I don't have an "inordinately high" number of posts but I am on here at least once EVERYDAY--I just couldn't get through my day with hearing from the "BEST BUNCH OF FRIENDS I'VE EVER HAD" and I gotta tell ya-- I wouldn't trade my membership here for another, anyplace else in the whole cyber world!!-- Although they may not know it, the friends I have made here have helped me through some of the toughest times in my life-- and they did it just by being themselves-- and to all of you-- I say thankyou and keep it up!!-- and hopefully before too long I'll be outta the books and back on here for more than just readin'-&-runnin'!!!
* * * * Each day is a new beginning...What you begin is your choice. The pleasure you receive from life is equal only to the attitude you put into it. Plants: 1454 | From: Cotton Land in the Magnolia State | Registered: Feb 2005
| Seeded: 69.160.238.199
* * * * Each day is a new beginning...What you begin is your choice. The pleasure you receive from life is equal only to the attitude you put into it. Plants: 1454 | From: Cotton Land in the Magnolia State | Registered: Feb 2005
| Seeded: 69.160.238.199
loz
guest
posted
Don't get to see you around too often anymore, just wanted to make sure I got to tell you hi!
Seeded: 70.109.67.67
posted
Hi there Tricia, I have to pop in with a hello since I do not see much of you these days either.
* * * * We are all under the same stars... therefore we are never far apart. Plants: 30076 | From: Washington, the state that is... | Registered: Aug 2004
| Seeded: 66.235.45.83
posted
Based on the facts that were revealed in our investigation of Sonja53 and her post, we have concluded that this was nothing more than a feeble attempt by cricket and her croanies to once again infiltrate our forum and cause problems and dissent.
Until such time that Sonja53 can satisfactorily prove her identity and credentials, she has been moved to the dungeon of shame (with the rest of her little gang)
I apologize to any and all of our members who felt uneasy about her post! On the advice of my attorney I have forwarded a copy of this post as well as previous posts designed to disrupt this forum! We will take further legal actions as necessary to prevent another such invasion!
Sorry, ms mud, you got busted again! What is your problem??? Get a life... somewhere else!
'Sparagus, I apologize to you for the hijacking of your topic! {{{{{{{{HUGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG}}}}}}}}}
* * * * Plants: 11227 | From: Cedar Hill Washington | Registered: Aug 2002
| Seeded: 69.33.97.176
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Hugs 'Sparagus.
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GO DAWGS! 
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THANK YOU! 
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kinda gets me thinking "troll"...Im not making an accusation, but it seems like it could be taken the wrong way and start trouble. Someone who's been researcing these types of communities would definitely know that.
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Lynne![[wavey]](graemlins/wavey.gif)
Each day is a new beginning...What you begin is your choice.
The pleasure you receive from life is equal only to the attitude you put into it.
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