Guess what today is?! It’s Lurker Introduction Day (Take 2), a day when lurkers on this website are invited to come out of hiding and show themselves. It’s also a day I totally made up. But, look, I know what it’s like. I’ve been before, and am, a lurker on different sites. You read along for weeks or maybe months (maybe even years??) without ever having an intention to NOT participate — it just sort of happens that way. You might have things to say in the comments, but they’ve already been said a dozen or so other ways by other people — people who comment all the time. Or, maybe you’re kind of shy. Or maybe you can’t think of a good user name. Or you don’t want to leave any digital breadcrumbs to your real identity. I don’t know. I guess lurkers all have their reasons. But maybe if you’re specifically invited to come out and introduce yourselves and participate in our conversations, those reasons won’t seem as important.
So here it is: an introduction to you lurkers to come introduce yourselves. Tell us who you are and what your story is and how long you’ve been lurking in the shadows. Come out in the light and let us get a good look atcha, why don’t you?
[Check out our first Lurker Introduction Day here!]
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howdywiley May 28, 2014, 2:08 pm
Hi. I am big time lurker. BIG TIME. I used to lurk when Wendy was over on The Frisky (or was it The Stir?). I have read every single comment thread on the posts, and boards, since the beginning. Major lurker. Maybe stalker? Anyway, hi everybody.
ktfran May 28, 2014, 2:15 pm
Oh, hi howdy! You’re a stalker? I know an LW I could introduce you too. I KID! Welcome.
honeybeenicki May 28, 2014, 2:31 pm
Like we say in our house, nobody loves you like your stalker! So stalking is ok. 🙂
shanshantastic May 28, 2014, 2:53 pm
You know you’ve made it as a stalker when you have your own stalker (anyone know the series?). Best of luck finding one here, and welcome!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:24 pm
Hi howdy! Lurker Introduction Day is my FAVORITE DAY OF ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunshine Brite May 28, 2014, 5:32 pm
Hi!
MissyC May 28, 2014, 2:14 pm
I also discovered Wendy from The Frisky! The site would sometimes drive me crazy with the formatting and such (I think I remember a ridiculous number of popup ads even though I had a blocker on? Or something annoying like that) so I was pumped when she started her own site.
Do I still count as a lurker if I am occasionally? I try to respond. I really do! But usually I write something and when I get back to my computer there are 80 other comments and I get really intimidated…
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 2:34 pm
Hi, and don’t be intimidated!
MsMisery May 29, 2014, 1:09 pm
That’s ok, I am a part-time lurker, too! I read every day on my lunch-hour but by then it seems like the comments have blown up so I almost always end up just reading them and nodding/LOLing. But I try to comment occasionally.
GatorGirl May 28, 2014, 2:15 pm
where is this nitabee who lives in NCFL???? Come out come out!! It’s summer lets be friends.
LlamaPajamas May 28, 2014, 2:21 pm
I want to know more about GiantPoodle!
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 2:26 pm
I want to know more about SmallishPug!
honeybeenicki May 28, 2014, 2:32 pm
I want to know more about MediumBulldog!
for_cutie May 28, 2014, 2:21 pm
Hi! I have followed Wendy since The Frisky too and never commented. Wendy has been with me through grad school and two kids and didn’t even know it! I am married and work full time. I love hearing about Jackson and Wendy’s adventures of working from home – it gives me perspective when I am at my desk missing my kiddos. There was a post a while ago about a tantrum in Trader Joe’s that sounded really familiar to my life…
CurlyMomNJ May 28, 2014, 2:35 pm
Ditto for me! Followed Wendy since The Frisky, and now check in every day on her site. I’ve had 2 babies in the last 3 years, so all of her new motherhood stuff really resonates with me. I have gone to post a few times, but I would just be repeating other commenters, so I’ve chosen to continue lurking. Maybe I’ll start posting more often… I do see a lot of people from suburbs of Philly, and I’m in Cherry Hill, so I always like to talk to others in the area! Hi!
No Pants May 28, 2014, 2:40 pm
Hello from Philly! We’ll do a city meetup one of these days. 😀
LlamaPajamas May 28, 2014, 2:45 pm
Definitely!
bethany May 28, 2014, 2:46 pm
Philly area lurkers scare me… What if I know you IRL?!
Just kidding, kind of. The more the merrier!
GatorGirl May 28, 2014, 2:53 pm
Omg that’s totally a fear of mine!! haha.
honeybeenicki May 28, 2014, 2:56 pm
I overheard someone on the phone on the bus the other day and they told someone to “move on already” and I really wanted to ask if she read DW but then realized if she didn’t it would be super creepy of me.
No Pants May 28, 2014, 3:21 pm
I started using STFUA (shut the F up already) this morning. I’m not sure if I invented it, but I’ve used it quite a bit today.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:24 pm
hi for_cutie! and CurlyMom!
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 2:37 pm
Here’s a Jackson story from today: We had gardening class this morning (our last one) and then came home for nap. Jackson only naps one or two days a week now but he usually stays in his crib for “quiet time” for at least a little while — long enough for me to scarf down lunch in peace and maybe read through today’s comments. well, I was just sitting down to eat and jackson opens his door (he climbed out of his crib!) and said, “Hi, Mommy! Whatcha doin’?” I have been trying, for the last hour, to keep him in his room for quiet play time. He is sitting at my feet right now running a toy car over my toes. So much for getting anything done…
for_cutie May 28, 2014, 2:42 pm
Gardening class sounds amazing. No naps sounds not-so-amazing…
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 2:44 pm
Gardening class was kind of a dud, unfortunately, but we start basketball class next and my friend (a former pro player) is teaching, so I’m hoping that will be fun. No naps is as awful as it sounds.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:31 pm
you’re friends with a former pro basketball player? is he single? gawd, wendy, it’s like we don’t even know you!
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 3:44 pm
She’s a woman! And a mom of three.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:51 pm
d’oh! sexist much, addie?
Ms. Simba May 28, 2014, 4:08 pm
….I assumed it was a woman. Clearly I watch way too much women’s college basketball!
CurlyMomNJ May 28, 2014, 4:23 pm
My son turned 3 in April, and he just has so much energy. I definitely favor “activity” classes (Little Gym, mini karate) to the quieter stuff (library story time, etc), because it tires him out and makes him sleep better!
kali May 29, 2014, 2:01 pm
CurlyMomNJ – have to ask about your name… is it because you have curly hair or some other reason? I ask because I am also a ‘curly mom’ but my curly is my curly-coated retriever (dog) baby Ozzy. Wondering if there’s another curly person here on DW.
kerrycontrary May 28, 2014, 3:48 pm
Wendy, not sure if this would help or not, but I’ve seen these lights/clocks that you can program to tell kids how long they need to stay in their room for quiet time. I’m not sure if Jackson would be responsive to it, but you can set it and then say “ok you need to stay in your room until the light is blue (or red or whatever)”. A lot of people use them to tell their kids that they need to stay in their room/watch tv until the light turns green on saturday/sunday morning so they don’t wake up mom and dad at 6am. Again, not sure if it’s a good fit for Jackson. It’s sort of like this: {adtype}&ca_sku=FPS-247362&ca_gpa={adtype}&ca_kw={keyword}&CAWELAID=500001880000067102
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 4:08 pm
I actually got one for jack a month or two ago and he is scared of it, if you can believe it. It might be time to try it again though.
for_cutie May 28, 2014, 4:51 pm
Wendy, give me the link to the one you bought for Jackson through your affiliate site for Amazon. I totally need this for my daughter who is 2 1/2 years old and just got a toddler bed this weekend. She got out of bed at 5 am today. Ugh!
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 5:10 pm
This is it:
Velvet Paws May 28, 2014, 2:28 pm
Oh I’m a lurker as well. The site is great, as are the majority of the commenters..I just don’t usually feel wiser than those who spring into the fray first. But I’m learning! Thank you, non-lurkers!
Diablo May 28, 2014, 4:01 pm
If we all waited for wisdom to strike before we commented, this would be a pretty dull site! Likewise, I strongly discourage anyone reading my comments from holding me responsible for the havoc that would ensue if people actually followed my advice. I think the idea is to see how are people are thinking and then filter that through who you are. For instance, although i value being a compassionate person, I’m actually not that good at it, and will willingly set morality aside for the sake of ANY joke. Maybe your comment would finally convince me to cut it out! So don’t hold back!
Ella_ May 28, 2014, 2:33 pm
Ha, I was going to introduce myself but I was the first comment on the last lurker intro thread so I guess I’m not a lurker anymore?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:50 pm
Ella_, you’re so old news. Kidding! Tell us about your brothers.
Ella_ May 28, 2014, 5:37 pm
I only have one brother but he’s only 23! Just a baby.
selgnirp May 28, 2014, 2:34 pm
Hi everyone! I also found Wendy on The Frisky and followed her over here :). I think I’ve commented like 2 or 3 times? I’m in the DC area. Tried to go to a meet-up once, but something came up.
Kicia May 28, 2014, 2:42 pm
I think it’s time for another DC meetup!
selgnirp May 28, 2014, 2:49 pm
I’m in!
shanshantastic May 28, 2014, 2:54 pm
I LOVE your handle. Just FYI.
selgnirp May 28, 2014, 2:56 pm
Haha, thanks! I’ve been using it since high school.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:26 pm
I can’t see her handle. Hi selgnirp! I’m trying to guess what “selgnirp” means and I’m at a loss. “Serious eel lover” was as far as I got and then I had to go get sushi.
selgnirp May 28, 2014, 3:31 pm
Hi Addie! It’s just Pringles backwards. I don’t even like pringles, though. I’ve just always thought it was funny backwards. I used to love eel sushi but now I prefer smoked salmon. C’est la vie!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:45 pm
Aw, pringles! i love it. i should go by soteech.
selgnirp May 28, 2014, 3:48 pm
Haha, sorry but wouldn’t it be soteehc?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:49 pm
fukc, i can’t get anything right.
cmary May 28, 2014, 3:32 pm
Pringles spelled backwards?
(I really like potato chips)
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 3:38 pm
I am mad at myself now for not realizing this before you did.
cmary May 28, 2014, 3:46 pm
Do you doubt my love for potato chips?
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 3:51 pm
You ruined my day, ok?
cmary May 28, 2014, 4:20 pm
Aw, I’m sorry. Maybe this will help? http://bassethoundsrunning.tumblr.com/
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 4:21 pm
Oh jeez, it did! That’s hysterical.
selgnirp May 28, 2014, 3:47 pm
I guess I can share some fun stuff. I’m going to be an aunt! Pretty excited about that. I’m already an honorary aunt but now it’s for real! YAY.
.
Also, I bought that book Wendy recommended a few weeks (months?) ago, “Calling in the One.” My best friend and I are going through the lessons together which is nice because we’re keeping each other on track. Anywho, I’m learning a lot, so fingers crossed!
rosie posie May 28, 2014, 2:38 pm
Thumbs up to all the new lurkers introducing themselves! Let’s have them feel the DW love!
howdywiley May 28, 2014, 2:42 pm
I’ve noticed that most of the posters are from the East Coast. Is there any other Californians here? I am on the Monterey Bay. 🙂
honeybeenicki May 28, 2014, 2:48 pm
How about I meet in the middle as a midwesterner?? It does appear that there are a lot of east coast people.
muchachaenlaventana May 28, 2014, 3:12 pm
I just visited that area and am obsessed. I want to move to Santa Cruz with a burning passion. You are quite lucky 🙂
howdywiley May 28, 2014, 6:49 pm
I just got home from spending the day in Santa Cruz! Had to hit up the board walk and Pizza My Heart. It IS summer after all 🙂
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 3:34 pm
I am! In SF!
Velvet Paws May 28, 2014, 3:42 pm
I’m from SF and currently in Grass Valley CA, so we’ve got some Westies here!
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 3:49 pm
Yay left coast!! 😛
DesiDad May 28, 2014, 4:47 pm
It is actually sunny and warm in SF today!
Ella_ May 28, 2014, 5:38 pm
Grass Valley! That is so close to where my parents live!
howdywiley May 28, 2014, 6:49 pm
My closest friend is from Grass Valley.
othy May 28, 2014, 7:01 pm
My cousins are from Grass Valley. We used to visit all the time when I lived in Sacramento.
Laura May 28, 2014, 10:57 pm
I’m in Sacramento! After being in SoCal for a short while. (I’m about to out-lurk/stalk you methinks) There are quite a few DWers on the West Coast, especially in CA. One thing I’ve seen West Coasters say is that by the time we get around to commenting hours later, it feels like everything’s already been said/full conversations have been had, and it’s easy to get intimidated by lots of comments for a not-so-regular poster. For me personally, I am afraid of posting at work, and by the time I get home I’m either too busy, too tired, too insertrandomexcuse. I’m also one of those that sometimes writes up comments but then deletes because I’m shy like that.
Anyhoo…We are going to have a meetup in SD this weekend (HOORAYYYYYYY AP BE JEALOUS!) I believe there was an SF meetup within the past year (and possibly another NorCal one, but I’m fuzzy on that). There are also quite a few people in the LA area, but I see comments from them come and go. I once wanted to try to see BGM at a comedy show, but I got lazy and didn’t feel much like driving up to LA. I now regret that greatly 🙁
Ms. Simba May 28, 2014, 2:48 pm
I’ve been a lurker for probably 3 or 4 months now, so more of a newbie! I mean to comment but I’m at work and reading everyone’s stories is just so much better 🙂
Not really sure what to use as an introduction. I’m from the East Coast as well, working full time and in a pretty serious relationship. I guess that’s it?
Thanks for the invite to come out of the shadows!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:27 pm
hi! tell us about your serious relationship and do you have a good looking single brother?
Ms. Simba May 28, 2014, 3:30 pm
Uhoh! What did I get myself into haha. We’ve been together basically a year and actually moving in together in a month! Sounds bad but we were friends for 5 years previous, so is that better?
And I do have a good looking step brother! …but I’m pretty sure his long term gf would be pissed if I introduced you.
Love the avatar btw!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:48 pm
well how about you let me know as soon as she exits the picture?
Ms. Simba May 28, 2014, 4:07 pm
I totally will 🙂
Dot May 28, 2014, 3:10 pm
Long time lurker. Reading Dear Wendy since, uh Frisky days? I think that was the site. Stopped going once Dear Wendy had her own. Love reading the advice and response and seeing all the meet ups and community. Thanks for helping break up my work day.
Lili May 28, 2014, 3:14 pm
hi, I’ve been lurking since Wendy was on the Frisky, I’m really bad for lurking I don’t generally comment on anything but I’ve become so fascinated by the comments section here that sometimes I look forward to the comments more than the original answer. so I guess I should finally actually get in on this. I also never really know what to say in comments, sometimes my social anxiety spreads online, so Hi. I guess?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:30 pm
“Hi” works! Hi. Are you any relation to the old Lili who used to comment all the time?
Lili May 28, 2014, 11:19 pm
I was actually surprised it let me post as Lili, it’s usually taken by the time I try to use it so no relation at all
Ani Nani May 28, 2014, 3:17 pm
I have commented a couple times (notably on the sippy cup/Alzheimer’s LW), but I think I still qualify as a lurker. Mostly I read everyone else’s comments and occasionally use the thumbs. I abandoned the Frisky as soon as Wendy started her own site, and I guiltily giggle at any cooper pot references.
I live in Ohio with my husband and super cute (and super bitchy) kitty and work as an unhappily underemployed attorney, which explains why I check this site multiple times a day. I have to keep the ennui and cynicism from destroying me.
This is enough, right?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:57 pm
Hi! Not enough! Tell us more. What kind of law do you do?
Ani Nani May 29, 2014, 1:06 pm
Basically, I am a glorified doc reviewer. Or as I like to call it “fake law.”
Casey May 28, 2014, 3:22 pm
Hi everyone! I introduced myself during the last lurker introduction day and have been trying to comment more. I agree that the regular posters are so smart, I typically don’t have much to add. So many smart people on this site.
I’m a veterinarian and live outside Chicago in Naperville. Still secretly crossing my fingers for a DW meetup this summer. As I mentioned last time, I want Addie Pray to become my best friend. 😉
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:28 pm
CASEY! Consider it done. Best friends forever!
Also, Moose is getting his gigantic balls cut off this Friday. Do they let you keep the balls? They’re so cute.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:28 pm
… And with that maybe you don’t want to be best friends anymore…. 🙁
Casey May 28, 2014, 3:50 pm
Haha, this just means you’re a weirdo like me – best friends forever!
Not sure if they would let you keep the trophies, you’d have to ask.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:53 pm
do you have any brothers? how come we don’t have a chicago summer meetup in the works? oh i know, because KTFRAN IS SUPPOSED TO ORGANIZE IT!
Casey May 28, 2014, 7:14 pm
Addie, I’m off work this week for study time – I take my boards in a few days. I think it’s time to open a beer, and since we’re now official best friends forever, I’m going to image you’re drinking with me so I’m not drinking alone. Deal? And I know you prefer wine, but I prefer beer, and I still think we can make it work.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 9:54 pm
I prefer people who prefer beer. it means more wine for me!!! i’m taking tonight off. it just occurred to me that i’ve had (at least) a glass of wine every day for over a month. like, not one day off, in 30+ days. that’s whack. so i’m taking today, may 28 off. i’ll resume tomorrow b/c we have a summer associate event. ha.
Casey May 28, 2014, 10:44 pm
It’s good to give the liver a break every now and then. Fortunately, I have a built-in break for my schedule when I’m on call.
AliceInDairyland May 28, 2014, 3:53 pm
My favorite lurker!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:54 pm
hey now, i got dibs on Casey.
Casey May 28, 2014, 4:03 pm
Now now girls, no fighting. After my boards are over next week, I’ll have plenty of time for everyone.
Addie, one brother, but he’s married with a child on the way. You?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 4:05 pm
two. both married. lots of kids.
Casey May 28, 2014, 4:15 pm
Dammit! Well that just means we need to pester ktfran about planning the meetup, forge our friendship, and go on a man hunt.
Amanda May 28, 2014, 4:19 pm
Ooh! We should try to have a meet up in the Naperville area! I’m close-ish (Carol Stream) and am too much of a wuss to journey into Chicago by myself.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 4:24 pm
meetup in the burbs! who wants to go for a hike? we can bring our pets and have DW doggie meetup too!
Amanda May 28, 2014, 4:41 pm
Well, I can’t bring a dog (and I’m pretty sure my chinchilla would NOT enjoy it) but I would happily play with other people’s doggies!
Casey May 28, 2014, 5:02 pm
Squee, I love chinchillas! They’re the softest things ever! But probably not the best hiking partner. We can play it by ear on the pets – I have an old lady dog who is iffy around other dogs, so it depends on what other animals would be there.
Amanda May 28, 2014, 5:05 pm
Yeah, she wouldn’t be so good on a hike.
.
I’m also up for a non-pet centric meet up. Basically I just want to meet new people!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 5:25 pm
seriously, let’s meet in a cute suburb and do on a walk. what about meeting in Oak Park and doing a Frank Lloyd Wright house tour walk? Super fun idea?!!!!!
Casey May 28, 2014, 5:30 pm
Great idea, I love the architecture in this city and Oak Park would be a good halfway meeting point.
Should we move this discussion to the forums?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 5:39 pm
done! go comment. let’s get this meetup on the calendar and then beat all the other meetups, mwahahahaha
Casey May 28, 2014, 4:29 pm
Oh my god, I LOVE that idea!!
Minerva May 28, 2014, 3:27 pm
Hi everyone! I’ve been reading Wendy for years, ever since The Frisky. I don’t really know why I don’t comment, I guess I just never feel like I have anything better to contribute than all of the other awesome commenters!
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I grew up in PA, but now I live at the beach in SC and I love it! I’m 27, I work in marketing and I’m newly single. I’ve actually been making very big changes in my life recently, which I think is why I finally had the courage to comment!
.
I started a new job a few months ago, which I am loving so far. In the last few weeks I finally decided to leave a two year relationship that just wasn’t making me happy anymore. It was really hard, and sad, but it was definitely the best thing for me. This past weekend I moved into my own apartment, and I am very excited to be living alone again! I’m really trying to focus on myself, and I’ve been eating healthier and exercising again this week, so things are looking up!
jlyfsh May 28, 2014, 3:32 pm
Do you live in Myrtle? Good luck with the exciting changes going on!
Minerva May 28, 2014, 3:36 pm
No, Charleston. And thank you!!
jlyfsh May 28, 2014, 3:39 pm
Awesome! I’m up in MB. Closest DWer I’ve heard of before though! I was in Charleston back in October, I need to visit again. Love that place so much! 🙂
Minerva May 28, 2014, 3:44 pm
Charleston is a really beautiful city, I still can’t believe I live here sometimes! And we have Bill Murray! Sadly, I haven’t run into him yet in my two years here.
jlyfsh May 28, 2014, 3:53 pm
I’m jealous of all the restaurants there and the farmers market!! I wish our local market was even half as nice! And of course Bill Murray is the icing on the cake 😉 (Especially if it’s from Kaminsky’s!)
bethany May 28, 2014, 3:37 pm
Yay for PA people!! Where in PA are you from?
Minerva May 28, 2014, 3:39 pm
It’s crazy how many PA people are on here! I’m from the Lehigh Valley.
othy May 28, 2014, 7:05 pm
I went to school in the Lehigh Valley!
Elisse May 28, 2014, 10:10 pm
Yes, yay PA people!!! I’m from Bedford. 🙂
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 3:39 pm
Have any lurkers been reading Emily Giffen’s new book?
Betsy May 28, 2014, 5:34 pm
I read it! Didn’t love it as much as her others.
lets_be_honest May 29, 2014, 10:13 am
I’m still in the middle of it, so hard to tell if I like it better than the others. It does seem like its written for the purpose of making a movie out of it though.
GatorGirl May 29, 2014, 8:09 am
whhhhhhattt first I didn’t know she had a new book, secondly college football? that’s going on my list next.
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 3:41 pm
Hi! I’m sort of a lurker, as I comment occasionally, but I’ve been commenting occasionally and reading voraciously since the Frisky! I also know a few of you and have met a few DW peeps in real life, which has been awesome!
I live in San Francisco, grew up in the Bay Area, and work in architecture. I am also working on making some big moves in my life. (as in, moving.) And as someone who fears change like the plague, I think I need a vast support group.
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 3:42 pm
You don’t count as a lurker mp!
bethany May 28, 2014, 3:43 pm
Totally not a lurker. Nice try though!
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 3:50 pm
Okok, I honestly wasn’t sure if I counted. I’ve honestly had no idea if anyone even noticed me!
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 4:01 pm
Aww, I consider you a regular! 🙂
rainbow May 28, 2014, 4:30 pm
Of course we noticed you!
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 5:20 pm
Aww, thanks guys! 🙂
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:46 pm
cha, nice try, dummy (she said, lovingly)
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 3:56 pm
Now I feel like I just crashed a party. Oopsie! Does this mean I don’t get to dognap, er, I mean, meet Moose?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 3:47 pm
and i’m addie pray, i’m a lurker. a few things you might not know about me are that i love wedding rules, white wine, and credit cards.
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 3:51 pm
Reeealy?!
Diablo May 28, 2014, 4:04 pm
And poop.
No Pants May 28, 2014, 4:02 pm
Hello, banjo friend! I keep meaning to tell you that I bought the Goodtime!!!
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 5:19 pm
Yesssss, awesome!!! 🙂
No Pants May 29, 2014, 8:48 am
Thanks!!! I’ve had it for about 10 days and I’ve been practicing for 30 mins a day. It took me a few nights to get used to the thumb pick, but it’s SO fun. I appreciate the encouragement!
lemongrass May 28, 2014, 3:49 pm
Hi! I’m a pregnant mom of 1 from the canadian west coast… Okay, okay. Welcome lurkers!
bethany May 28, 2014, 4:05 pm
Wait, who are you?
Mclovin May 28, 2014, 3:56 pm
Hey everybody, I’m McLovin. I’ve been around, off and on, since the beginning. Life gets in the way and I forget how many awesome, smart, funny people comment here regularly and that always brings me back.
I’m 45, live on the west coast with a cat that adopted me and my son a while back. I travel way too much for work and I’m usually on my phone reading DW when I’m at the airport with my headphones in so people don’t feel the need to ask me what I do for work.
theattack May 28, 2014, 7:32 pm
Hi Mclovin! I said this on the last deleted thread, but I don’t know if you saw it. I think you should comment more! I miss your comments.
What do you do for work?
.
Bahaha just kidding.
McLovin May 28, 2014, 8:30 pm
I did see that, made me laugh. And then I replied with something enormously inappropriate about 30 seconds before Wendy deleted that thread(imkiddingbuteitherwaytheresnoproof).
I’m actually a consultant. It’s not sexy, but I get to travel to a lot of very cool places and pretend that I know what I’m talking about at conferences. So if anyone needs any Marriott rewards points just hit me up, I have enough for all of us.
No Pants May 28, 2014, 4:09 pm
I really keeping hoping that Pantsless Ramona is a lurker and that she uses this thread to out herself. (I finally remembered today which LW included Ramona.)
Moneypenny May 28, 2014, 5:21 pm
I know right! I want an update on Ramona.
tkup May 28, 2014, 4:21 pm
Hi everyone, I’m tkup. Another longtime lurker, first-time poster who has followed Wendy since The Frisky. I’m a librarian and currently engaged (will be married June 14th, just a few more weeks!!)
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 4:25 pm
You’re like the lurker version of kerrycontrary!
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 4:25 pm
If you were getting married on the 14th month instead of the 6th, you could’ve had 14-14-14! Maybe you should consider pushing the wedding back?
LlamaPajamas May 28, 2014, 4:43 pm
I’m an engaged librarian, too! What kind of librarian are you? I’m medical. And I’m getting married in October!
tkup May 29, 2014, 9:21 am
I work full-time at a law library and part-time at a public library, so I guess you can say I’m a well-rounded librarian. 🙂
muchachaenlaventana May 28, 2014, 4:51 pm
There are so many librarians on this site! It would be so interesting to do a demographics of people who comment and see all the similarities or differences.
othy May 28, 2014, 7:07 pm
As a statistician who looks at a lot of demographic information, I fully support this plan.
bunnybear May 28, 2014, 4:25 pm
Howdy all!! Long time lurker. I originally found Wendy through her post on citywendy about throwing a budget wedding in NYC. I then proceeded to stalk her advice column on frisky and then, here. My favorite part of the site are the bartending videos, so more of those please! 🙂 Originally from VA, but been in NYC for 10 years. Worked in the corporate world for 15 years, but am now a massage therapist. Best change I ever made, though, no one becomes a massage therapist for the $, let me tell you. What else? I am almost 40, and have a parakeet named Marvin. We moved out of Brooklyn in the fall to get a bit of space and be closer to nature. I actually have a patio now!! After at least 13 years – my own outdoor space!! I have been obsessed with planting flowers and even have herbs and 1 pot of tomatoes! It’s the little things in life, people. And chocolate. And wine.
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 5:09 pm
Where’d you move to? Yay patios!
bunnybear May 28, 2014, 5:45 pm
We moved to the hip and happenin’ town of White Plains. Not. But….we lived here before so knew what we were in for. And we can easily get by with 1 car which was essential. Plus, we needed to wean off city life slowly – so spoiled with restaurants and shopping at our doorstep. Still…patios! And grills!! Totally worth it. Plus, stuff closes during snow when you don’t live in the city – I had forgotten that 🙂 (Bad for ordering food, but good for snowdays on the sofa!) Worst part has been missing my friends. It was impossible enough to schedule happy hours and brunches when everyone lived “relatively” close. Now, it really is impossible. So, having a bit of withdrawal to that end. But, otherwise, no regrets whatsoever. Nicetomeetya!!!
No Pants May 29, 2014, 9:52 am
I grew up not too far from White Plains 🙂
lets_be_honest May 29, 2014, 10:07 am
That’s near me! Have you been to Tarrytown? Love that little “city.” My brother lived there for a year or two.
You should go to the Central Park meetup!
No Pants May 28, 2014, 5:09 pm
Hi!
AlwaysALurker May 28, 2014, 4:27 pm
Hi Everyone!
As my name suggests I’ve been a lurker for a while. I actually joined the last DC meetup as a last minute delurking move. It was great meeting the DC DWers in person! Unfortunately I haven’t delurked again until now. DW is almost a daily read for me and I really love the community so it’s my summer resolution to comment more.
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 5:14 pm
Comment more, comment more! And encourage other lurkers to go to meet ups. Especially the one in central park this weekend so I’m not the only one there because that would be sad.
AlwaysALurker May 28, 2014, 5:43 pm
Thanks Wendy! It’s a plan! Wish I could join the next meetup in NY… but I highly recommend all NY lurkers to attend!! I actually told my sister (who recently moved cross-country and is close to NY) about the DC meetup and recommended she try to join if there’s a meetup in NY so I’m already on the DW meetup advertising train.
Christy May 29, 2014, 8:41 am
Yay! I’m glad you’re introducing yourself! You were awesome at the meetup.
cakemonster May 28, 2014, 4:31 pm
Hi everyone! Fellow super-lurker here, and I also followed Wendy from The Frisky. I’ve commented a total of 5 times since then, maybe? I have crazy social anxiety that manifests in the weirdest way online. If someone starts a debate with me, I freak out and obsess about it for hours. First world problems, amiright? I’m in my late 20s, I live in Austin, Texas, and I’m a 3D character animator in the video game industry.
My current drama of the week is convincing my mom that dyeing the bottom of my wedding dress to get an ombre-effect is an awesome idea.
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 4:33 pm
Someone has the coolest job EVER! (and potentially the coolest wedding dress ever!)
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 4:34 pm
DAMNIT, I SAID IT FIRST BUT OBVIOUSLY YOU HIT SUBMIT FIRST. i got dibs on cakemonster!!
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 4:38 pm
HAHA! IN YO FACE
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 4:34 pm
You’re a 3D character animator in the video game industry *AND* your user name is “cakemonster” *AND* you want to dye your wedding dress to get an ombre-effect? YOU ARE OFFICIALLY THE COOLEST DW COMMENTER!
cakemonster May 28, 2014, 4:37 pm
Aw thanks! 😛 I’m arty fartsy
No Pants May 28, 2014, 4:35 pm
I know someone who did that and her dress looked amazing. 🙂
cakemonster May 28, 2014, 4:42 pm
That’s good to hear! So far, all signs are pointing to It’s A GREAT Idea
No Pants May 28, 2014, 4:55 pm
It’s fantastic!
Sunshine Brite May 28, 2014, 5:35 pm
We need pics when it’s done! Bring some to the forums 🙂
Wendy's Sister May 28, 2014, 5:56 pm
Hi, cakemonster! I’m in Austin, too! I also have weird social anxiety, so I’m surprised I’m saying this, but we should do a DW meetup again! It’s been almost two years since we had one.
Welcome!
Joresana May 28, 2014, 4:34 pm
I also followed Wendy from The Frisky. I think I’ve commented on 2 or things, and I made one forum post several years ago. You all just seem like such a close group that I feel like I’m intruding when I comment. I’m 30 and live outside of Atlanta with my husband, Aves, and 2 kitties. Currently unemployed and looking for a job I can do with my disability.
Snaphappy May 28, 2014, 4:45 pm
Lurker since The Frisky, I’ve posted a little under the forums but then I realized my old username makes it super easy to find out who I am 🙂
I’m graduating law school and moving across the country (Chicago to NYC) to move in with my fiancé in June (and we get married in August!), so there are a lot of things going on right now!
Other than that, I like eating lots of dessert.
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 5:16 pm
Hey, I moved from chicago to nyc to move in with my boyfriend (now husband!). Good luck! Come to NYC meet ups!
MsMisery May 29, 2014, 1:17 pm
YES to dessert. If not for things like morbid obesity and scurvy, I would just eat dessert for all meals (including dessert).
squirrelcat May 28, 2014, 4:57 pm
Hello! I’m squirrelcat. I have been reading Dear Wendy for a few years now. I live in Calgary Canada and work as a Career Advisor. I live with my partner and our recently diabetic cat.
GoHabs! May 28, 2014, 5:11 pm
Hello! Another stalking lurker here. I try to minimize my online profile, so I will remain a lurker. I just want to let everyone know that there are many of us stalking lurkers out there, reading and analyzing your every comment… creepy enough?
lets_be_honest May 28, 2014, 5:18 pm
Um, yes. I’m not commenting anymore, so analyze that!
lemongrass May 28, 2014, 5:28 pm
I call bullshit.
Christy May 29, 2014, 8:44 am
Go Habs, indeed! My preferences of the semi finals: Habs–>Kings–>Rangers–>Blackhawks. (I’m SICK of the Blackhawks.)
GoHabs! May 29, 2014, 9:28 am
I am totally with you. I want a Habs-Kings finals, with the B-hawks watching crying from home.
runberries May 28, 2014, 5:33 pm
Hey! Another lurker here. I read Wendy’s column sporadically when she was on The Frisky, but have pretty much been a regular reader since she started her own site. I think I commented once or twice a couple of years ago, but I don’t have that e-mail address anymore and don’t remember the name I used. I’m awful at thinking of names!
I’m in my late twenties, live in TX, have an adorable bratty dog, and I love reading and running (well it’s sort of a love/hate relationship with running – and eating, which necessitates the running). It’s fun to finally introduce myself here! Maybe since I pulled the trigger and made an account I’ll actually comment more?
Wendy's Sister May 28, 2014, 5:58 pm
Hi, runberries! Welcome to the comments! Whereabouts in Texas are you? I’m in Austin.
runberries May 29, 2014, 10:43 am
I’m in San Antonio. I lived in Austin for several years and I miss it like crazy!
Aurora May 28, 2014, 5:43 pm
Hi everyone! Fellow mega-lurker here, following Wendy (man that sounds creepy) over from The Frisky as well. I read the site every day, columns and forums, and have been wanting to jump in and join the discussion for some time but always backed out. No longer! Lurker Introduction Day has inspired me to finally create an account and start commenting and de-lurk. I’m excited! A little about me: I’m from NJ, went to school in DC, and have been in NYC the past few years, and work in legal. Oh and I really love cheese… and wine… and bread. And Netflix.
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 5:53 pm
Oh, hi, Aurora. You live in NYC? Dod you know there’s a meetup in central park this saturday? There is! You should come! There will be wine and cheese and bread. Probably no netflix though, but you never know.
Aurora May 29, 2014, 2:51 pm
I would love to, unfortunately I can’t make it this weekend. I’m definitely in for the next one though!! I hope everyone has a blast!
lets_be_honest May 29, 2014, 10:16 am
We’re twins Aurora! (except for the DC part, being in NJ and fine, I live near the city. Close to twins though. And I love your name!
Aurora May 29, 2014, 3:13 pm
You’re so sweet, LBH! Yay for close to twins. And I’m glad you like the name! I would have joined the conversation a lot sooner yesterday but for trying to come up with a good one!
lindsaybob May 28, 2014, 5:50 pm
Hi, everybody! I’ve been lurking for AGES (like, a couple of years, probably), but I’ve commented a handful of times. I live in England and I always feel like the time difference really gets in the way. So much of the discussions happen when I’m asleep! It’s 10:45pm here right now and I’m about to go to bed while you’re all having fun 🙁
I’m 31 (32 on Tuesday!), married and have recently given up my job as a solicitor to be a SAHM to my 9-month-old son. I’ll try to comment more!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 5:56 pm
hi counselor!
lindsaybob May 29, 2014, 1:20 am
Hi Addie! My dog would love to meet Moose, he’s such a cutie!
theattack May 28, 2014, 7:37 pm
omg you just said solicitor! That is SO cute!
lindsaybob May 29, 2014, 1:21 am
It is? Um, okay, I have no idea why that’s cute, but thank you!
Christy May 29, 2014, 8:46 am
We don’t have that as a distinct job title–if someone in the US described themselves as a solicitor, they’d be trying to be coy or something like that.
theattack May 29, 2014, 1:14 pm
What Christy Said. We just have lawyers in the U.S. with no common way to specify what type of work a person does. I have no idea why, but I think the British words are really fun. I always want to start using them here, but that probably wouldn’t work. So sorry if it was rude to call your job title cute. I just really think it’s a great word!
Boobs Magee May 28, 2014, 5:51 pm
Hi everyone!
I actually delurked for the first time on the San Diego meetup thread (using my boring real name, Shauni), but I figured that I should chime in here, too. Especially considering that I haven’t commented since then…. :-/
I’ve been in San Diego most of my life,
I’m the single mom of a 16-year old daughter and 3 psycho kitties,
my passion is performing at renaissance faires,
I think I should be able to drink wine at all gyno appointments.
Oh! I followed Wendy over from the frisky, too!
rachel May 28, 2014, 5:53 pm
I like the new name 🙂
Boobs Magee May 28, 2014, 6:01 pm
Thanks! My boyfriend thinks he’s hilarious. 😀
theattack May 28, 2014, 7:39 pm
You’re not the old commenter TitsMagee from The Frisky, are you?
Boobs Magee May 29, 2014, 11:03 am
Nope, wasn’t me. I always just lurked on that site, too.
Nutella May 28, 2014, 6:03 pm
Hey there everyone, I think I sorta de-lurked on on the last lurker thread and I always want to chime in on the deleted threads but those threads, like this one today, always happen on days that I’m actually busy at work and/or still drunk from my evening escapades.
trixy minx May 28, 2014, 6:44 pm
Hello my name is trixy. I’m a bit of a lurker since I don’t have internet so I’m mostly on my phone. Which means I’m hardly in dw anymore 🙁
I currently live in the Colorado rockies. Moving here was the best life decision I ever made.
MayeFoo May 28, 2014, 6:52 pm
Hello everyone, my name is Mayela and I’m from Mexico. I’ve been following DearWendy every since she was on theFrisky (I’m still a fan of that site btw).
I’m 28, married (1 year and a half), no kids, 8 dogs, one cat. I’m an engineer and next fall I’m moving to France to pursue a PhD.
I love DearWendy and my husband makes fun of me because I’m constantly saying “DearWendy says that we should do this or that” 🙂
Anyway, I’m a big time lurker and just wanted to say hi.
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 7:13 pm
8 dogs?! Woah.
Also, jealous of your move to France.
hatercakes May 28, 2014, 7:07 pm
Hi!!
I totally missed last lurker intro day, and am glad I was able to make it on this one! I’ve been lurking since the days of the frisky – dear wendy is a daily addiction. I guess I should have commented before now, but I never seem to make it that far. I love reading through the comments tho!
About me: I live in north florida and I’m working on my doctorate. I have the most adorable puppy ever and love to garden and escape to the beach whenever I’m able.
theotherbarb May 28, 2014, 7:11 pm
Okayokayokay! Also big-time lurker here, from the time of the Frisky….I’ve never commented before (guess that’s one def of “lurker”, right?) but a person has to start somewhere! I’m from NoCal (from our state capital, to be exact) and love the site and Wendy’s family of commenters. Always a hoot! Does that expression tell you I’m a “bit” older than most commenters here? I’ll never tell (well, maybe I will!)
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 7:13 pm
Hi, theotherbarb!
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 7:15 pm
PS I know how old you are (because you told me once in an email) but your secret is safe with me.
theotherbarb May 28, 2014, 7:22 pm
Thanks, Wendy! Aha, now I know how to reply (d’oh! because it’s obvious!!) Guess that was part of my problem with commenting….gonna get good at this now!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 9:49 pm
You’re 47! (Was I close?)
theotherbarb May 29, 2014, 2:11 am
Oh so close! (I’m so excited! I love your comments!) Actually, I only wish you were close! Does the fact that my daughter will be 47 this year count? I’m outed now!
Laura May 28, 2014, 11:12 pm
I’m from a state capital ‘burb, barb! But I work in the capital city and I’m looking to move closer to work sometime in the next few months. 🙂
trixy minx May 28, 2014, 8:19 pm
It is really cool seeing how many people followed wendy from the frisky. I did too btw.
Yes to Staying in More May 28, 2014, 8:20 pm
Hi all! I’m a 27 year old grad student who followed Wendy from the Frisky and reads everyday. This is actually my first ever comment on the interwebs (scary!). I read DW because the advice is great and thought provoking, but also because I really love to live vicariously through other people’s drama. I know that pretty much makes me the worst– but there it is. I’ve always wanted to write in, but I’m single and only occasionally interact with humans bc of said grad-schooling, so I haven’t had a situation worthy of Wendy advice. (I swear I do actually interact with humans though, really…). Plus is there anything more revealing than planning to write in, imagining Wendy’s response, and realizing you are being a total idiot??
My favorite piece of Dear Wendy advice is that it doesn’t really matter why someone is not interested in you or isn’t treating you well, it ultimately just matters that they aren’t. This has really helped me to not obsess about various dude situations and to just MOA.
That’s all for now!
LL
lucy goose May 28, 2014, 8:23 pm
Hi! Longtime lurker (since the frisky days) and daily reader here. This site provides a welcome respite and happy distraction from a very boring job. I’m 26, newly engaged, and just bought a house in the NYC metro area. I have the world’s best dog, who turns 6 on Sunday and inspired my user name. I love reading anything and everything, pretending to be more crafty than I really am, cuddling with my fiance, doing house projects (except gardening!), pretend shopping, watching trash tv, wine, junk food, and playing Rock Band.
Wendy, your advice is the perfect balance between compassionate and no-nonsense. I discuss your column’s with my fiance on a somewhat obsessive basis. Commenters, you are some of the most insightful people on the Internet and I enjoy reading everything you have to say!
PuppyLove May 28, 2014, 9:25 pm
Hi all! I’m an uber lurker and have been for years. I chocolate addict with a running habit who wants to be besties with every puppy I meet.
Addie (we’re on a first name basis since I introduced myself right!?) – Before you ask, I’m sad to report I don’t have any single brothers but I want to join the doggie dates!
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 10:04 pm
hi! i am so in love with my puppy. he became friends with a sweet pup at the dog park this evening and the two chased each other for what seemed like hours! and now my puppy is about to CRASH. i love him so much my heart hurts.
*
come to our chicago/oak park meetup on sat. july 12!!!!!
PuppyLove May 28, 2014, 10:28 pm
Well duh! He’s cute and cuddly, no way to resist that.
And driving fours hour for meet my new internet friends is totally normal right!? Does Moose help you pick up guys? My pup is a little too much like a stuffed animal to bring the boys to my yard even if she’s totally boy crazy.
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 10:41 pm
come come! 4 hours is nothing. where are you? i drove to baraboo wisconsin this weekend – that was 4 easy hours. (probably less for normal drivers but i have a Prius and am obsessed with maximizing my miles-per-gallon which through experimenting i’ve found occurs at 55-60 miles per hour, so that’s what i drove on the highway.) any chance you live in bariboo??????? i can’t think what else is 4 hours away. … iowa? michigan?
PuppyLove May 28, 2014, 11:04 pm
I’m in St. Louis but with the way you drive that’s probably like a 2 day journey for you. I kid, I kid! My sister has a Prius (only because I wanted one!) and I call it her spaceship. My dog also has a special seat so she can stick her little head out the window!
Addie Pray May 29, 2014, 9:54 am
Come for the meet-up in Oak Park – it’ll only take you like 45 minutes to get here! And you can bring Cats Meow along.
Liz May 28, 2014, 9:49 pm
Hi there, I’m Elizabeth. I don’t know if I’m technically a lurker because I comment maybe…once every few months? haha, but I check Dear Wendy daily, since The Frisky. (god what an awful site that’s become. Anyway..) I have referred many friends (and even my boss!) to articles here and there. And I wrote in a column a couple years back (http://dearwendy.com/is-it-grief-or-is-he-just-not-into-me/) which helped me so much.
I’m 26, live in an apt in Queens with my boyfriend, do marketing for a construction company and spend most of my time reading blogs and online shopping-without actually purchasing anything. Annd I’m late to this post. 🙂
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 10:42 pm
Come to the meetup in central park on saturday!
baapplesauce May 28, 2014, 10:27 pm
Hi everyone,
I am also a long time lurker. Pushing 30, married, from Maryland. I adore day drinking, social sports, binge watching tv shows, and wendy’s gift recommendations….though they are usually for me 🙂 I also always read the book club books…but still haven’t commented yet! I will one day, I promise!
bittersweet411 May 28, 2014, 10:47 pm
Shamefully, I’m one of the years-long lurkers mentioned in Wendy’s intro. I’ve been reading her column since her The Frisky days. Even though I’m the go-to relationship counsellor to all my friends (and strangers who tell me their stories in the first 10-minutes of our introduction), I’ve never felt compelled to comment because Wendy rarely misses the mark. Lastly, I’m just not a very active Internet commenter — I’d definitely come to one of her meet-ups if it was held in Toronto 🙂
Hi, Wendy!
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 10:51 pm
Hi! Now I want to come to toronto and have a meetup there. I haven’t been to Toronto since I was like 12.
Wendy's Dad May 29, 2014, 11:44 am
Wait!What? You were in Toronto at age twelve? Why don’t I know about that? And while we’re on the subject, I am upset that nobody EVER mentions a DW meetup in the Ozarks.
Dear Wendy May 29, 2014, 12:02 pm
Don’t you remember our trip to Niagara Falls and Toronto in the late 80s?
Wendys Dad May 29, 2014, 12:08 pm
I remember Niagara Falls, and I remember that we probably drove past Toronto on our way to Windsor and Detroit, but I do not remember stopping in Toronto. Am I getting old or are you remembering something that I have long forgotten. Or both.
Dear Wendy May 29, 2014, 12:15 pm
Well, you ARE getting old. The other options are possibilities, but that one is a truth. (I’m getting old too).
Elisse May 28, 2014, 9:57 pm
Hi there!
*
I’m Elisse, long time lurker and occasional commenter (and once a LW!) as well. I’ve actually followed Wendy from BEFORE The Frisky – when she was writing her own blog called City Wendy in Chicago! What’s that been, 7 years now? Wow. I also bought the book that she and a friend wrote, The Very Best Weblog Writing Ever By Anyone Anywhere In The Whole Wide World ). You all should get it! 🙂
*
I’m 31, somewhat-recently single, and the mom of a toy poodle who is the light of my life. I live in NC – a transplant from small-town PA; I work in digital marketing; and am a writer myself. I’m a daily (often several-times daily) reader and once in awhile I try to comment with something unique, if it hasn’t already been said! Wendy gives some of the best, most solid and grounded advice and I love reading all of your responses as well!
*
Nice to (kind of, finally) meet everyone!
Elisse May 28, 2014, 10:04 pm
Also, PS (responding to my own comment = NERD!), I really think we should have a NC meetup somewhere (coughtheTrianglecough). I’ve been meaning to ask for awhile if anyone’s close but I’ve been too shy. Any takers?
Addie Pray May 28, 2014, 10:08 pm
Anna lives there (i think)!!!
Dear Wendy May 28, 2014, 10:44 pm
Hi Elisse! You are reader from back in the City Wendy in the Windy City days? I love that! And guess what? I started that blog exactly ten years ago today!
What do you write?
Elisse May 28, 2014, 11:40 pm
Hi Wendy! It’s so sweet of you to reply to me! Yes, I’ve been following you for ages! 🙂 I think I started reading after you’d had the blog for awhile, probably 3 years in, but yes!
I have a Master’s in Screenwriting and Producing; I write scripts, stories, and I have 2 blogs. So far. My goal is really to write several books within the next 10ish years – before I’m 40. And then go back to school for my Ph.D. in English!
I’m so happy to see all of your success and to have followed you for so long. You’re a great writer!
Dear Wendy May 29, 2014, 6:21 am
Aw, thanks! Good luck to you in your writing pursuits!
Chaparra May 28, 2014, 11:04 pm
Hi everybody! I’m so glad I made lurker day just in time. I’m a longtime Dear Wendy fan. I started reading the blog a few years ago right when I got married, and I have loved! Wendy’s honest approach to parenting. I don’t have any kids now, but I’m 34 so it’s definitely on my mind. I’ve also posted once for advice and got some really helpful feedback. I mostly just appreciate how open minded this community is.
Let’s see – important stuff about me: I have two cats who are awesome; I’m a professor after a looong haul in grad school and I love it, but I have to live in the suburbs of Indianapolis for my job. Boo! I guess the last thing is that since I’m Chaparra (viva short ppl!), that makes the husband Sr Alto.
Lo May 29, 2014, 12:26 am
I clicked on these comments with every intention of remaining a lurker but they are so fun so here I am! Like many, I’ve been a Wendy fan since the Frisky (also like many, I am of the opinion that the Frisky went way way down hill). I sort of love advice columns?! I read Amy and Prudy on a regular basis too – I think it’s that I love the stories and the reminder that many of life’s seemingly difficult problems can be solved with better communication and the ability to let
go. I’m 29 and live in Chicago (near Wendy’s old stomping grounds so I enjoy the Chicago stories on here!). On the relationship front, I just got married this April so it’s been a pretty fun and exciting spring. I really enjoy the site and all the comments so thanks all for letting me lurk. 🙂
Addie Pray May 29, 2014, 6:13 am
Lo! Will you come to out Chicago meetup?
Lyra May 29, 2014, 12:44 am
Hi all you lurkers!!! It’s so fun to see people come out of their shells. 🙂 Any Minnesota lurkers? Anyone?? We need to have another Minnesota meet up soooooon.
Not A Princess May 29, 2014, 9:55 am
Hi! I’m a lurker. I’ve commented once or twice before when feeling particularly brave, but most of the time I’m a look-don’t-touch reader.
My job is a boring contractor in DC, but my passion is writing. I write under the name Victoria Helen Rose and I published my first book earlier this year! I also wrote an article for The Frisky. Wendy’s column was a major draw for me for The Frisky so of course I followed her here!
I love to read the little conversations from the regulars, but I find it a little intimidating to try to break in so I gave up trying.
I have five siblings and was raised Army. My favorite type of Wendy article is the shortcuts.
Amanda May 29, 2014, 10:54 am
Don’t give up! I find it intimidating too. But I comment when I can sometimes it’s in a conversation…other times it’ a conversation with myself. So comment more!
clarabelle May 29, 2014, 10:12 am
Hi, another lurker for many years. I have an awesome job that lets me spend lots of time on the internet. I’m not sure why I have never commented, probably because everyone always has better answers than I do! I’m 36, have three great kids, and in the middle of a divorce. I live in the middle of nowhere in the Midwest and am jealous of all the dw meetups!
Not a Princess May 29, 2014, 10:24 am
Hi Clarabelle,
I’m sorry to hear about your divorce. That sucks donkey balls. I love your name! It sounds so noble.
Speaking of names, how does everyone pick theirs? I’m particularly interested in squirrel cat
ohtheplacesyoullgo May 29, 2014, 11:49 am
Hi everyone! I hope I’m not too late to the de-lurking party. I’ve been an on-and-off reader and lurker, but have lately been much more on. I really appreciate reading Wendy’s advice and the generally sound and spirited debates in the comments. I am soon to be 24 and soon to be moving cities to join my boyfriend of 4 1/2 years–no job yet, but I will be living at his parents’ (where he lives, employed) while I look, then we’ll be moving in together! I’m really excited to settle into my new life in my new city, though it is both nervous and liberating to have given notice at my job now without having anything lined up. And to be temporarily moving in with boyfriend’s parents, though they’re really lovely and kind to me.
zombeyonce May 29, 2014, 11:52 am
I’m another lurker, though I’ve commented a few times here and there. I think the main reason I rarely comment is because I’m always late to the party and when I get the email that a new post has gone up, there are already a ton of comments so I think no one will ever read mine so it’s like talking to myself. But maybe not! Is anyone actually reading this? Beuhler?
If you ARE reading this, here are my stats: I’m 32, married 2 years, bought a house a year ago, live in Portland, OR (of Portlandia fame), and read constantly. I also watch really bad television made for teens (like Vampire Diaries) but it’s entertaining and full of eye candy.
I mostly just comment on posts about open relationships, since I have firsthand experience with them. I’m in an open marriage and it’s pretty great, though it can be challenging. I think the key is that even if we closed our relationship, we’d still be perfectly happy with just each other. It’s a comforting piece of knowledge. And open relationships are awesome (at least for me; I know they’re not for everyone)! Who doesn’t like making out with assorted hot guys?
Jane May 29, 2014, 12:14 pm
Howdy y’all!
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Sooo I may have missed the boat again on this, but I have been lurking since The Frisky (which got SUPER annoying minus Dear Wendy so I’m stoked that she moved over here)!
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She did answer a letter of mine (http://www.thefrisky.com/2010-01-15/dear-wendy-my-family-disapproves-of-my-controlling-boyfriend/) on that site (*CRINGE* at my letter!), so I’m not sure if she does updates for those letters. However, an update of sorts can be seen on the ‘How to be a casual dater’ forum post, haha.
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Anyway, I am a young professional in Houston and I comment very rarely. I usually see what I want to say among the comments, so I feel like it doesn’t need to be said again. But I may become more active now that I have a bit more free time!
rlSing23 May 29, 2014, 6:31 pm
Hi everyone! I’ve been a long-time lurker since TheFrisky days as well, and I’ve have commented a couple of times over the years. I’m 26 years old and I’m a Cantor (for those of you who don’t know what that is, it’s kind of like a Rabbi, but more musical–I lead prayer services, teach music, etc.) I don’t have a full-time job at a synagogue currently but I am working at a bunch of places tutoring and teaching music to kids in the DC area. I have been mostly quiet because I try to keep my online presence minimal, because I am currently on the job search!
I am engaged and getting married in November to a wonderful man who I have been dating for about 4.5 years–we met in Israel (but he is not Israeli!) and continued our relationship back in the states, but we have been long distance (and still are, but not for long). We will be moving in together at the end of this summer either in the DC area or somewhere else, depending on where we find jobs (wherever one of us finds a full-time job first, that is where we will move to). We are so excited!!
I have loved this site for such a long time–I read other advice columns and love articles about relationship advice. I think the post from 2010 on TheFrisky–“I’m pretty, so why can’t I get a boyfriend” (and the follow-up in “Does everyone really deserve love and happiness”), was what got me hooked! I even used those two posts in a sermon I delivered during the High Holidays this past September (Yom Kippur, to be exact–my favorite day of the year!)
Don’t know why I missed the last lurker day but glad I made it the second time around!
Dear Wendy May 29, 2014, 6:40 pm
Welcome! Drew’s childhood Cantor performed at our wedding and it was such a memorable experience (I mean, the whole wedding was memorable for me, of course, but I think the Cantor’s presence was especially meaningful), so I like cantors. I like Yom Kippur, too, but mostly because I went into labor on Yom Kippur so it feels special to me.
Lyra May 29, 2014, 8:36 pm
ANOTHER MUSIC TEACHER!!!! YAAAAY! I teach band. 🙂