Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Dear Forum Family,

I deeply apologize for the recent challenges we've faced with our server and the impact it has had on our website and services.

Over time, we encountered difficulties with server updates that raised concerns about potential issues with the GRUB bootloader during server boot-up. To mitigate this, I temporarily halted doing updates, which led to a delay in keeping our systems up to date.

As we planned an upgrade to our forums, one of the prerequisites was PHP 8.0. To address the potential server issues, I decided to take proactive measures. I performed a comprehensive backup of our server data, including nightly, monthly, and full backups. These backups were supposed to be stored securely on an external drive.

However, an unexpected issue surfaced. In 2019, the connection to the external backup drive was lost, unbeknownst to me. The drive was not mounted with the remount flag. Consequently, the server had started saving backups on the server drive instead of the external one. This remained unnoticed over the years as I verified the existence of the backups and pruned out-of-date nightly backups.

To resolve the GRUB bootloader issue, I initiated the re-partitioning of the server drives, which included creating a new boot partition at the front of the drive and installing the GRUB loader there. As a precaution, I disconnected the external drive to eliminate any potential complications.

Upon completing these tasks, I proceeded to install the latest version of the operating system. Thankfully, the boot problems were resolved. However, when I remounted the external drive and attempted to restore our website and server files, I discovered that the files were dated from May 2019.

This unfortunate turn of events resulted in the loss of four years' worth of posts, and some members who had registered during that time were no longer active. Additionally, members who had deleted their accounts within that period were involuntarily restored, and for that, I deeply apologize.

I then began doing an upgrade on the forum to bring us to the current version. This took 1223 minutes and 40 seconds due to the large size of the forum, even back in 2019. I was only able to grab intermitten sleep during that time.

To prevent issues with canceled subscriptions, I had to cancel all active subscriptions. I kindly request that you please take a moment to restore your subscriptions, as this site cannot survive without member support! I will be working on re-implementing the donation system as well.

As a part of the upgrade, I had also issues restoring the WordPress installation that managed our front page, and since much of the WordPress content was out of date, I decided to make the forum the main page of the website, adding a redirect from the previous location.

I sincerely apologize for the technological oversights and the impact they have had on our community, the lost memories, posts, and the wonderful support members of the community had given in those lost years. I also apologize for anyone who needed peer support over the New Year's Holiday and couldn't receive it.

I assure you that hard lessons have been learned from this experience, and I am committed to ensuring that these types of mistakes do not ever recur.

For those who may be revisiting our community, We had recently taken a series of steps to deal with perceptions that moderation on the site was heavy-handed including revisions to our TOS and content policy. We did a total ban wipe. We removed the prohibition on discussing dosages in relation to Hormone Replacement Therapy, Our censored word list was heavily pruned. Our renewed focus is to create a supportive environment where everyone is welcome, supported, and both seen and heard.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. We look forward to those whose memberships were dropped re-registering.

I really hate having to ask for your help, but your support for the website and myself is more crucial than ever during this period. We offer a range of monthly subscription options from $5 to $1000, and your contribution in any form will be deeply valued. You can also donate via paypal through my paypal me link which goes to site's account.

paypal.me/SusanElizabethLarson

Sincerely,
Susan Larson
Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Dear Susan,

Wow, I certainly didn't expect to see this.  I'm so very sorry for everyone's loss and for the loss to the community.   I can't imagine how you felt when you first realized what was lost.  OMG, I would have died.  My heart goes out to you, and everyone that is a part of Susan's.

Thank you for getting the site back up and running again.  I sincerely hope those that have made this site a part of their lives come back.  I know it will be hardest for those that had the daily blogs, as they have lost the most.  But they, in their blogs have made may more friends and loved ones then they know.  They are the reason many of us were visiting the site on a daily basis.

I hope you can get the payment service back up soon.  Do you have a P.O. Box I can send a Cashers Check/donation to?

I do not have a PayPal account.  I have serious issues with PayPal and by no means what them to have any of my information.  In the past I used a Visa gift card and registered it anonymously to make donations.  Sorry, I'm very weird in some ways and I can't help it. 

Warm Regards, 
Paulie.
     

I'm looking through the names on the 2019 posts, and there aren't many who are still posting recently, so unless more recent members are able to log on, activity will be greatly reduced. There will need to be information sent around the other Forums to alert people who can't log on now. The forum can recover, but it will take a lot of work!

Hugs,

Allie

Well that wiped my blog out, not even there to post on now. Lets hope things get sorted soon.

Davina, some of your Blog may be available at Archive.org.

Hugs,

Allie

Just to let you all know, I heard from someone whose account was lost and who tried to re-register and they said that they are not getting their registration e-mail and hence can't move forward.

Heidemarie

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 02, 2024, 07:35:45 AMJust to let you all know, I heard from someone whose account was lost and who tried to re-register and they said that they are not getting their registration e-mail and hence can't move forward.

Heidemarie

This is a known issue with people with gmail accounts. Not sure when it'll be fixed (hopefully soon(tm) ).

Quote from: davina61 on January 02, 2024, 04:48:29 AMWell that wiped my blog out, not even there to post on now. Lets hope things get sorted soon.

Well Im still here, thanks Davina for letting me know, Im not an active user but the site has been wonderful over the lonely years. Might just help again.

Katie Jade

Loads of Luv n Hugz xx

Quote from: Katie Jade on January 02, 2024, 10:21:19 AMWell Im still here, thanks Davina for letting me know, Im not an active user but the site has been wonderful over the lonely years. Might just help again.

Katie Jade

Loads of Luv n Hugz xx

Please, we would love to have you!

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 02, 2024, 07:35:45 AMJust to let you all know, I heard from someone whose account was lost and who tried to re-register and they said that they are not getting their registration e-mail and hence can't move forward.

Heidemarie

That is most probably due to a google account. It's been an ongoing war between me and them. I will work on that today. In the meantime if they will email the sptrdonations@gmail.com account from the email in question. I will see about manually activating them.

At first I will thank all for all the afford to get SP back online as complete as possible. This affords we're also during the new years events so double heavy!
Also the moment of realizing 4 years of SP would possibly gone must have been one which makes your stomach turn around.
I whish all strength in building back SP!💥
If I can help please let me know.

Susan I agree that your heart must've been in your feet watching this all play out. I am so thankful for the effort over the holiday to get the site back up. I am sure that we will all get the content back up as well. It has been so necessary for us all, and I can't see people giving up on it. I like the new setup, I have thought a like function would be phenomenal and here it is. I will be starting a new blog soon!

Like? I do not see anyway to do this. Like there is not a like button like lol (sorry British humour)

Hugs
Jessica xxx

Hi Susan,

Not the greatest start to year but these things happen so don't worry too much about it

I was logging on to prep for my five year update lol

most of my posts were between 2019 an 2021 (start until operation) it's a shame all that info has gone

on the plus side for me I won't be disappointed that nobody has commentated or responded to any of my questions or posts. I can blissfully believe there were lots of great responses

I will see if I saved any of my rambling posts in Word or Notepad and repost if I find any

Will also see if even though getting on with my live post transition I can log on a bit more to answer questions for new people starting theirs

Hope the rest of the year fares better for everyone

Carla

This is very disappointing. Most of us have lost 4 (for some, the most important) years of our lives. I do hope this issue can be resolved to prevent any further losses of members experiences. The past 4 years were the most important transitional period of my life. It would be a good idea for each of us to take it upon ourselves to back up our personal blogs/post to prevent such a tragic loss of valuable personal information in the future.

Donica

Quote from: Jessica_K on January 02, 2024, 08:45:52 PMLike? I do not see anyway to do this. Like there is not a like button like lol (sorry British humour)

Hugs
Jessica xxx

I noticed that some people have liked posts, but I don't see a "Like" button or a thumbs-up button either. Can someone please point to where that mystical elusive feature is hidden?

Thanks,

Heidemarie

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 10:32:39 AMI noticed that some people have liked posts, but I don't see a "Like" button or a thumbs-up button either. Can someone please point to where that mystical elusive feature is hidden?

Thanks,

Heidemarie

Look right under Donicas signature in the post.  :)

Hugs, Devlyn

Quote from: Devlyn on January 04, 2024, 10:52:22 AMLook right under Donicas signature in the post.  :)

Hugs, Devlyn

This is what I see for Donica's post:

(https://i.imgur.com/irZ5lSK.jpg)

Am I missing something here?

I looked at my account settings but did not see anything obvious either.

This is what I see on my laptop and the mobile browser on my phone. Are you using tapatalk by any chance?

(https://i.imgur.com/qoaYiiU.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/iCmtT0Y.jpg)

Hugs, Devlyn

No, I use Apple's Safari browser on a Mac. Same behavior on Google Chrome and Firefox, so I don't think it is a browser issue. I do see the "1 person likes this" message, but no Thumbs-up/Like hyperlink. I checked the DOM and that element is just not there.

Tapatalk, btw, currently doesn't work at all. I believe SMF requires a plugin to enable Tapatalk which might not have been installed yet after the server rebuild.

Are you using a cookie blocker?

No, I only have a popup window blocker enabled, but that shouldn't cause any issues. Is there any particular cookie that is required for this feature to work?

The SMF documentation mentions that the Like feature can be limited to specific member groups. Is it possible that I am not in the correct member group that has the Like feature enabled?

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 12:57:33 PMNo, I only have a popup window blocker enabled, but that shouldn't cause any issues. Is there any particular cookie that is required for this feature to work?

Not sure, just an uneducated guess.  :laugh:

I'm going to call in the experts.  ;D

Hugs, Devlyn

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 01:01:57 PMThe SMF documentation mentions that the Like feature can be limited to specific member groups. Is it possible that I am not in the correct member group that has the Like feature enabled?

It's possible, yeah. May be just an oversight. Don't worry, I'm sure it'll be sorted in time. :)

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 01:01:57 PMThe SMF documentation mentions that the Like feature can be limited to specific member groups. Is it possible that I am not in the correct member group that has the Like feature enabled?

Let me do a bit of re-jigging with your membergroups. Tell me if you see the like button.

Quote from: Allie Jayne on January 02, 2024, 06:43:59 AMDavina, some of your Blog may be available at Archive.org.

Hugs,

Allie

Allie,

How does Archive.org work? I looked at that site and could not figure it out.

Thanks
Ellen

Quote from: Devlyn on January 04, 2024, 01:02:48 PMNot sure, just an uneducated guess.  :laugh:

I'm going to call in the experts.  ;D

Hugs, Devlyn

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 12:57:33 PMNo, I only have a popup window blocker enabled, but that shouldn't cause any issues. Is there any particular cookie that is required for this feature to work?

Is the Like button there now?

Yes, the Like button is showing up now. Thanks!

Hugs,

Heidemarie

Quote from: Devlyn on January 04, 2024, 01:47:41 PMIs the Like button there now?

Yes it's here now thanks.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 01:57:25 PMYes, the Like button is showing up now. Thanks!

Hugs,

Heidemarie

Quote from: Jessica_K on January 04, 2024, 02:02:53 PMYes it's here now thanks.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

Thank Susan!  :)

Quote from: EllenW on January 04, 2024, 01:39:40 PMAllie,

How does Archive.org work? I looked at that site and could not figure it out.

Thanks
Ellen

Ellen, I don't know how to use that site, but a friend was able to recover lost posts from another crashed forum. It was a bit hit and miss, but found some data.

Hugs,

Allie

It appears my profile was one of the ones that has been wiped out and I was forced to re-register. Is it posssible to lift the restriction on a certain number of posts before adding a profile picture? Or perhaps Danielle can verify that I have been on this site for years and lift the restriction based on that verification?

Or am I just missing the place to add a profile photo on the new site?

15 posts can go in no times. but there's no way to lift it without lifting the restrictions on actual new members.

So disappointing to have to start over completely. I'll have to think about it. Might be a bridge too far.

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2024, 09:29:34 PM15 posts can go in no times. but there's no way to lift it without lifting the restrictions on actual new members.

I'm sorry but I would disagree with your premise. Most of the forum threads are over 4 years old and the discussions are inactive. There simply aren't 15 discussions that I feel I can add to that are relevant in 2024.

Perhaps you could do a temporary lift for a short-term window of time (7-10 days). This would make it easier for those who have been completely wiped out and have to start over from square one after years of participating on this site. This solution would minimize any disruptions to the site should a handful of ACTUAL new members slip through the cracks and post a profile pic before achieving the 15-post minimum.

This seems like a reasonable compromise that helps incentivize members who have lost all of the content they have provided to this site due to no fault of their own to stay. It doesn't make sense to make it harder on the members who have been contributing to this site for years to continue that support.

You've already made three posts and you're a newly returning member – that is a great start!

Have you introduced yourself in the Introduction forum (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,8.0.html) yet, or interacted with other newly returning members there? Don't forget to participate in the Roll Call for Members (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,246818.0.html), send birthday wishes in the Birthday Board (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,317.0.html), Also, consider reading, responding to, and supporting others in the Member Blogs (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,317.0.html), or share your own joys, trials, and tribulations.

Explore the forum using the 'unread posts (https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=unread)' and 'updated topics (https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=unreadreplies)' links at the top of the page, or the Recent Posts (https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=recent) list on the main page. Another great way to engage is by creating and contributing helpful content for new or returning members.

Reaching 15 posts can happen quicker than you think!

If you're looking to add a profile picture, just message one of the staff members; they'll be happy to assist you in setting one up.

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2024, 11:19:15 PMYou've already made three posts and you're a newly returning member – that is a great start!

Have you introduced yourself in the Introduction forum (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,8.0.html) yet, or interacted with other newly returning members there? Don't forget to participate in the Roll Call for Members (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,246818.0.html), send birthday wishes in the Birthday Board (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,317.0.html), Also, consider reading, responding to, and supporting others in the Member Blogs (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,317.0.html), or share your own joys, trials, and tribulations.

Explore the forum using the 'unread posts (https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=unread)' and 'updated topics (https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=unreadreplies)' links at the top of the page, or the Recent Posts (https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=recent) list on the main page. Another great way to engage is by creating and contributing helpful content for new or returning members.

Reaching 15 posts can happen quicker than you think!

If you're looking to add a profile picture, just message one of the staff members; they'll be happy to assist you in setting one up.

I think you have missed the point.

Welcome back, Zoey! The Staff appreciates the thanks you've offered for all the hard work we're putting into getting the site up and running again.  :)

Everyone understands the disappointment of the lost data and having to start over again. If you post the picture you want to use as an avatar, myself or one of the other Staff members would be more than happy to set it as your avatar.

Hugs, Devlyn

Quote from: zoey starr on January 04, 2024, 09:32:09 PMSo disappointing to have to start over completely. I'll have to think about it. Might be a bridge too far.

I have no doubt many of your posts are possible to retrieve from the web. This would help you get the number up quicker. Secondly, You can support others and get the total up in no time. Another way that helps the site and its users is posting news articles. We never catch all the articles that are out on the web and don't require a paywall. Those are just some ideas and in addition to that you can tell us about you and where your at in your journey. As Devlyn mentioned, we would be more than glad to post the profile photo for you especially since isn't your fault. You can send the profile photo to one of our emails and we can get that taken care of for you. mariah@susans.org Hugs
Mariah

I want to say thanks to the staff for all the hard work you have been doing to restore Susan's Place.

Just want to make sure that the connection to "Tapatalk" is on your to-do list.

Again thanks for all the hard work you have been doing

Ellen

Quote from: EllenW on January 06, 2024, 04:58:16 PMI want to say thanks to the staff for all the hard work you have been doing to restore Susan's Place.

Just want to make sure that the connection to "Tapatalk" is on your to-do list.

Again thanks for all the hard work you have been doing

Ellen

I second that. With over 80% of internet use being by phone, I'm afraid there are many who don't even know that the forum is back up! I wish there was a way to let them know.

PS:
When I click the "donate" link, which is not visible on all pages, I'm directed to page that says the following:
An error has occurred
You can not view Donations.

That's too bad about the outage.  However, I managed to get re-activated.

@NancyDrew1930
Dear NancyDrew:
WELCOME BACK ....
....I am so very glad that you were able to re-activate your account !!!!

I am looking forward to reading your postings around the Forum.

A lot has probably changed since you were here last, even if it was just last week! Please review the links at the end of this message, they include information which will help you navigate the site and use the available features. 

Once you reach 15 posts you will be able to send and reply to private messages, until then if you have any questions about the Susan's Place site and the Forums, please feel free to contact me via email at northernstargirl@susans.org

Once again, Welcome back to Susan's Place!

HUGS, Danielle
The Forum Administrator

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,2.0.html)	Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,54369.0.html)	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,114.0.html.)	Cautionary Note (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,82221.0.html)
Reputation rules (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,18960.0.html)	News posting & quoting guidelines (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,174951.0.html)	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy (https://www.susans.org//index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)	Membership Agreement (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,216851.0.html)

@Courtney G
Dear Courtney:
Thank you for your message.
Please be advised that the Donation and Subscription LINKS are now fixed.

If you continue to have problems please let me know.

Thank you for your desire to continue to support Susan's Place and the Forum.

HUGS,
Danielle  If your LINK doesn't work, try the Subscription Link
                      in my Signature Line at the bottom of my posting.
cc:  @Susan

Quote from: Courtney G on January 06, 2024, 05:29:57 PMPS:
When I click the "donate" link, which is not visible on all pages, I'm directed to page that says the following:
An error has occurred
You can not view Donations.

I am calling to talk to paypal tomorrow about the donation issue. Right now subscriptions should be working perfectly, if not let me know of any issues.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 07, 2024, 09:48:22 PM@NancyDrew1930
Dear NancyDrew:
WELCOME BACK ....
....I am so very glad that you were able to re-activate your account !!!!

I am looking forward to reading your postings around the Forum.

A lot has probably changed since you were here last, even if it was just last week! Please review the links at the end of this message, they include information which will help you navigate the site and use the available features. 

Once you reach 15 posts you will be able to send and reply to private messages, until then if you have any questions about the Susan's Place site and the Forums, please feel free to contact me via email at northernstargirl@susans.org

Once again, Welcome back to Susan's Place!

HUGS, Danielle
The Forum Administrator

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,2.0.html)	Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,54369.0.html)	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,114.0.html.)	Cautionary Note (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,82221.0.html)
Reputation rules (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,18960.0.html)	News posting & quoting guidelines (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,174951.0.html)	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy (https://www.susans.org//index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)	Membership Agreement (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,216851.0.html)

It was more like making a new account since I wasn't on here until 2022.  But I wonder, could you maybe recover some of the missing stuff from the Internet Archive's Wayback machine?

Quote from: NancyDrew1930 on January 08, 2024, 12:50:07 PMIt was more like making a new account since I wasn't on here until 2022.  But I wonder, could you maybe recover some of the missing stuff from the Internet Archive's Wayback machine?

We are not able to do that, however you are more than welcome to recover what you can and post it. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Susan on January 07, 2024, 11:34:45 PMI am calling to talk to paypal tomorrow about the donation issue. Right now subscriptions should be working perfectly, if not let me know of any issues.

As before, when I click the Donating (http://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=treasury) link at the top here, it directs me to a 404 page. I'm not the subscription type. I did make a few one-time donations in the past. But there doesn't appear to be an option for that.

EDIT: also, the note about donating isn't showing up at the top of the page since I wrote this post. It doesn't appear in the "news" section at the top of every page, only certain ones.

Until it's fixed you can use the paypal.me link (http://paypal.me/SusanElizabethLarson) in the initial post.

I signed up again.  It is disappointing to learn that so much was lost.

We are already rebuilding, and I have ensured the drive is set to auto remount

Quote from: Susan on January 08, 2024, 04:51:35 PMUntil it's fixed you can use the paypal.me link (http://paypal.me/SusanElizabethLarson) in the initial post.

Yeah, the donate page is up but Paypal gives me an error when I try to donate, so I just used the link.

I flagged you as a donor.

Quote from: Susan on January 09, 2024, 11:53:32 AMI flagged you as a donor.

Thanks, but the donor image referenced in the page code isn't on the server any longer.
https://www.susans.org/Themes/default/images/membericons/ranks/donor.png

It looks like you need to upload it again.

EDIT: A "donor" banner is appearing at the top, but there's one right below the country in my profile sidebar that isn't on the server.

It should only be showing up once, I will work on it.

Looks perfect now.

Quote from: Mariah on January 05, 2024, 08:07:58 AMI have no doubt many of your posts are possible to retrieve from the web. This would help you get the number up quicker. Secondly, You can support others and get the total up in no time. Another way that helps the site and its users is posting news articles. We never catch all the articles that are out on the web and don't require a paywall. Those are just some ideas and in addition to that you can tell us about you and where your at in your journey. As Devlyn mentioned, we would be more than glad to post the profile photo for you especially since isn't your fault. You can send the profile photo to one of our emails and we can get that taken care of for you. mariah@susans.org Hugs
Mariah

Mariah,
Thank you for your offer to help by posting a profile photo for me. I emailed it to you yesterday afternoon. Please let me know if you have any issues with the file.
Zoey

To all of our members:

If assistance is needed to get your Avatar/Profile picture posted on your
Forum Profile you can feel free to contact any of our Moderation Team Members:

NOTE: You can easily contact the Forum Moderator Team by
Forum Private Message or Email:

  Global Moderators
              Devlyn          
              devlynmarie@susans.org

              Jessica_Rose    
              jessica_rose@susans.org

              Mariah          
              mariah@susans.org
           
  Forum Administrator
              Northern Star Girl   
              northernstargirl@susans.org


I am trusting that you will have an enjoyable and happy experience here on the Forum.

Warmest Regards,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator [/size]

Quote from: zoey starr on January 09, 2024, 04:12:21 PMMariah,
Thank you for your offer to help by posting a profile photo for me. I emailed it to you yesterday afternoon. Please let me know if you have any issues with the file.
Zoey

Will find it right now and get it taken care of for you. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on January 09, 2024, 07:53:52 PMWill find it right now and get it taken care of for you. Hugs
Mariah

Thank you, Mariah! I don't know if you saw this additional request in my email or if it is even possible...

When I signed up for the new registration I didn't realize I could use uppercase letters in my name.  Is it possible to change my profile name from zoey starr to Zoey Starr?
I really appreciate any help you can offer.
Zoey

I posted a very serious thread later in December. Luckily I think I read all the replies to it right before it was lost. I thank everyone for their replies to it as well.

@CosmicJoke
Dear Cosmic Joke:
You are not alone... all of us that have returned to the Forum after
the New Year's Day site crash have experienced loss in our postings and comments. 

Be looking around the internet and do a search in the Forum and you will
probably be able to find more of your writings that you can re-post.

It was good to see that you were able to make it back after the crash.
I will be eagerly looking for your future postings.
HUGS,
Danielle

Quote from: CosmicJoke on January 15, 2024, 01:50:52 PMI posted a very serious thread later in December. Luckily I think I read all the replies to it right before it was lost. I thank everyone for their replies to it as well.

@CosmicJoke
Dear Cosmic Joke:
        ONE MORE THING!!!
I just did a "Entire Forum" search in the Search Bar at the top right of any page
and I entered your name "Cosmic Joke" and found a lot of what you had posted in the past.

Please look over the search results in your own search and feel free to repost
the important writings that you had submitted.

HUGS,
Danielle

All I can say, is "wow!!!"

I was able to recover my original account I created when I first came out, but my main account, one I created after I came out to Nora, is gone.

All my posts, threads, and my entire blog.
My story does't exist here any more, nor all the wonderful advice I received over the years, advice and lessons I thought would be helpful for future transitioners.

Gone, like I never existed here.

And now I wonder whether it's worth it to return.

Laura

Dear Laura,

I understand the deep sense of loss you're feeling, and it's truly heartbreaking to hear about the disappearance of your main account, along with your valuable posts, threads, and blog. Your journey, experiences, and the insights you've shared are irreplaceable, and it's natural to feel disheartened in such a situation.

However, I'd like to encourage you to consider the broader impact and the unique value you bring to our community. While it's true that we provide the platform, it's the contributions from members like you that truly bring it to life. Your story, though it may feel like it's been erased, continues in you and through the interactions you've had with others over the years. The advice and lessons you've imparted have already made a difference and can continue to do so.

Rebuilding might seem daunting, but it also offers a fresh start, an opportunity to retell your story, perhaps with new insights and reflections that weren't there before. Your return could be a powerful statement about resilience and the enduring nature of our shared journeys. The support, understanding, and camaraderie you've found here remain, and your voice can still be a guiding light for those embarking on their own paths of discovery and transition.

Remember, your existence and impact extend far beyond the posts and threads you've created. They reside in the lives you've touched, the conversations you've sparked, and the community you've helped build. While we cannot replace what was lost, we can continue to offer a space for you to share, grow, and connect.

I hope you'll consider staying with us, not just for the support you can continue to receive, but for the invaluable support and inspiration you can continue to provide to others.

Warm regards,
Susan

I may be more fortunate that most, because all my blog posts were drafted in Google Docs before I posted them to Susans. I cared that much about the stories I was telling. So, yes, I could spend the next week or two reposting them, but then all context is lost because the amazing advice I'd received is no longer available.

While this is my original account, I'd deleted it and later created a new account. I COULD use this account going forward, but I'd used my entire name as the user name. My deleted account was under Laura1951. I'd rather my last name not be referenced with every post. Unfortunately, I'm not able to create a new account, LauraE, because my primary email address was also used by this account.

I'm stuck.

Laura

Hey Laura!

 I hope you stick it out around here!... life is about today and the promise of tomorrow!

https://youtu.be/_lyve_egY8o?si=Wp97KGIa4d9xGdrP

Onward We Go Brave Sister!

Ashley 😀💕🌻

Thank you Susan for changing my username. I feel more comfortable now.

Laura May

Password reset requests to Gmail accounts are working now!  Yeah and Thanks.  -mS

I've re-registered as I couldn't get my old account to work. Been on here before but am happy to be back.

(Please don't bombard me with Moderator "Welcome" instructions. I know the rules of your site.)

On January 9 I noticed that my account and my postings had all been erased..... Like I was never here. I had to re-register Is this the reason why?

Quote from: Tig58072 on January 28, 2024, 06:35:55 AMOn January 9 I noticed that my account and my postings had all been erased..... Like I was never here. I had to re-register Is this the reason why?

Yes. We basically lost everything between late May 2019 and 1 Jan 2024. Anyone who joined Susan's between those dates will need to re-register, and all of the posts in that period are gone. Thanks for coming back.

Love always -- Jessica Rose

@Tills  @Tig58072   
Dear Tills and Tig58072:
Welcome back after our site crash on New Year's Day. 
I do remember your prior presence here and I am glad that you were able to re-register.

I promise to not "bombard" you with "Moderator Welcome instructions" however you do need
to know that the site is still in the process of rebuilding and looks a little different
and navigating around the site is a little different as well.

I do want you to look closely at the ANNOUNCEMENTS
                  https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,2.0.html
you will find a summary of what happened and what we are doing to get the site put back together.

Also the "Rules" have been revised and have actually been "relaxed" and updated to be more
user friendly so you do need to review those again.
        Susan's Place: Community Guidelines and Terms of Service
                  https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,2.0.html

... I am so very glad to see that you have returned...  consider this a fresh start as
you begin again with sharing your experiences here on the Susan's Place Forum.

If you you have any questions regarding the Forum you can feel free to contact me.
NOTE: You won't be able to use the Forums Private messaging
or posting your Avatar profile photo until you reach the threshold of 15 postings,
so you can contact me via my Email at  northernstargirl@susans.org   
I can also immediately assist you in uploading your Avatar profile photo if you wish to do that.

Warmest Regards,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator

Quote from: Tills on January 28, 2024, 12:41:48 AMI've re-registered as I couldn't get my old account to work. Been on here before but am happy to be back.

(Please don't bombard me with Moderator "Welcome" instructions. I know the rules of your site.)

Quote from: Tig58072 on January 28, 2024, 06:35:55 AMOn January 9 I noticed that my account and my postings had all been erased..... Like I was never here. I had to re-register Is this the reason why?

Quote from: Zoey Starr on January 04, 2024, 09:27:16 PMIt appears my profile was one of the ones that has been wiped out and I was forced to re-register. Is it posssible to lift the restriction on a certain number of posts before adding a profile picture? Or perhaps Danielle can verify that I have been on this site for years and lift the restriction based on that verification?

Or am I just missing the place to add a profile photo on the new site?

I too would like to add an avatar photo but don't really want to post wasteful messages until I gain the permission so I'll bide my time probably.

On this subject, I noticed that waaaay back an original forum mod posted something, fairly confrontational I feel, about not putting up an avatar that is clearly not yourself. Their point at the time was that a false photo can mislead people. It's an interesting one that and in the interest of balance I think it's worth putting the other side. I have two children, one of whom I have to dance around very carefully. He's aware of this site and as I also have a media profile he would NOT be happy to see me posting anything that could identify me on here.

It's always worth just taking a step back with people and from hostility, especially online where so much can be misconstrued, and asking ourselves, 'now why might that person be coming at if from that angle? Is there another point of view here'?

Anyway, well done all for getting the site back up and running. It's still not accessible using several web browsers e.g. Safari and DuckDuckGo but I can access it on Chrome.

xx

Quote from: Tills on February 01, 2024, 11:26:57 PMI too would like to add an avatar photo but don't really want to post wasteful messages until I gain the permission so I'll bide my time probably.

On this subject, I noticed that waaaay back an original forum mod posted something, fairly confrontational I feel, about not putting up an avatar that is clearly not yourself. Their point at the time was that a false photo can mislead people. It's an interesting one that and in the interest of balance I think it's worth putting the other side. I have two children, one of whom I have to dance around very carefully. He's aware of this site and as I also have a media profile he would NOT be happy to see me posting anything that could identify me on here.

It's always worth just taking a step back with people and from hostility, especially online where so much can be misconstrued, and asking ourselves, 'now why might that person be coming at if from that angle? Is there another point of view here'?

Anyway, well done all for getting the site back up and running. It's still not accessible using several web browsers e.g. Safari and DuckDuckGo but I can access it on Chrome.

xx

I believe that you're referring to this post from Nero, the Forum Admin at the time.

https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,167649.0.html

Quote from: Nero on June 23, 2014, 01:04:50 PMNo fantasy faces and lives please. Susans is not for pretenders

When you post a photo or avatar of someone other than yourself and claim or lead our members to believe it's you, you're insulting all of us. Insulting our intelligence (since many of these photos are easily turned up in a google search as being some model who is either a well known cis person or just very unlikely to be you).

You're also >-bleeped-<ting in the face of our many members who have shared their real faces and real lives with us. They were brave enough to share themselves warts and all with us. So don't chicken out and try to pass off a gorgeous cis person as yourself. You don't have to be beautiful to get into this club. You just have to be real. And there are many of us who don't show our faces for privacy reasons. Perfectly understandable as well. Just don't pretend to show your face, unless it's really YOUR face.

If for whatever reason, you want to play out a fantasy on the internet - a fantasy face and fantasy life - please go elsewhere. Fantasy has its place, but it's not here.

Avatars of famous people or models are ok; as long as you're not trying to fool anyone it's you.

The point isn't that you can't use another photo, in fact we offer a selection of photos for use by our members which can be accessed by going to Profile/Forum profile/Select avatar from gallery/Femmes.

The point is that if someone is using another photo, or a faceapp photo, they acknowledge it, especially when someone compliments them on the photo.

I hope this clears things up.

Hugs, Devlyn

Quote from: Tills on February 01, 2024, 11:26:57 PMOn this subject, I noticed that waaaay back an original forum mod posted something, fairly confrontational I feel, about not putting up an avatar that is clearly not yourself.

that's a very old post regarding a very old issue that happened with another site. as you can see with my own profile picture, I'm not exactly a sadistic stuffed bear irl it's just maintaining  a certain degree of separation with the rest of the world (and if you want to do the same nothing wrong with that).

It wasn't 'unclear' @Devlyn so it didn't need clearing up. I was pointing out another side to what was a rather acerbic post by that original person. I deliberately didn't put the Nero quote as it was a) from an awfully long time ago and b) they are now deceased. So I was treading with grace and dignity.

I'm quite sure that if someone uses a picture of, say, Jennifer Aniston it's pretty obvious to everyone in the world that it isn't them.

Quote from: Flan on February 02, 2024, 03:03:43 AMthat's a very old post regarding a very old issue that happened with another site. as you can see with my own profile picture, I'm not exactly a sadistic stuffed bear irl it's just maintaining  a certain degree of separation with the rest of the world (and if you want to do the same nothing wrong with that).

Perfectly put. Thank you :)

@Tills
Dear Tills:
Regarding you being able to post an Avatar/Profile photo immediately without waiting to achieve the 15 posting threshold...
I have already offered you a way to do that, HOWEVER as of now I HAVE NOT received any communication from you asking for
specific help getting your Avatar/Profile picture posted... 
All you have to do is send the photo to my E-mail at northernstargirl@susans.org and I will immediately take care of that for you.
Please take a close look at the excerpt below from January 28, 2024 "Welcome Back" message that I posted to you on this thread.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 28, 2024, 09:54:19 AM@Tills ....
Dear Tills ....
- - - - -
        {snipped text}
            - - - - - - - -
If you you have any questions regarding the Forum you can feel free to contact me.
NOTE: You won't be able to use the Forums Private messaging
or posting your Avatar profile photo until you reach the threshold of 15 postings,
so you can contact me via my Email at  northernstargirl@susans.org  
I can also immediately assist you in uploading your Avatar profile photo if you wish to do that.
      - - - - - - - - - -

Here on the "new" rebooted Forum... our staff is working very hard to get things back up and running smoothly while maintaining our
refreshed and updated way that we are handling how we "Moderate" members.  Our hard working staff is not particularly thrilled with
your recent public postings that bombard us with your displeasure regarding your past "pre-crash" experiences about our policies that
you were not happy with.    As the old saying goes... "You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar"
All of that is "past history" so if you wish to discuss those issues, please do it privately with me via my E-mail.
Warmest Regards,
Danielle [northernstargirl@susans.org]
The Forum Administrator

Kinda really sad that my update post is lost to time, but in the grand scheme of things, I was not greatly affected by this tech kerfuffle. Happy to still be able to see my first post, when I was still very baby, and seeing *just* how far I've come :)


E

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 02, 2024, 10:17:28 AM@Tills
Dear Tills:
Regarding you being able to post an Avatar/Profile photo immediately without waiting to achieve the 15 posting threshold...
I have already offered you a way to do that, HOWEVER as of now I HAVE NOT received any communication from you asking for
specific help getting your Avatar/Profile picture posted... 

Thanks Danielle.

Tbh, I just switch-off when I see all these multi-coloured mod posts. They cause my eyes and brain hurt because I'm light sensitive (migraine triggers). But that's a kind offer re. the avatar. Thank you. I'll wait until I reach 15 x posts but I do appreciate it. Thank you xx

Susan,

Thank you and your Forum team for all of your work to get your forum back up and running.


Sincerely,

Chrissy

I think I may have been one of those who was inactive and got tossed.  ;D
No one's fault. I was inactive due to various issues, ya'know... life.  Was homeless for a short period, but now in a new apartment and trying to reconnect (now that I have internet again). I had to create a new account, but I am pretty sure I remembered my username and just signed up again with (I think), the same name... or a variation thereof.  ;D

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on January 04, 2024, 12:44:09 PMNo, I use Apple's Safari browser on a Mac. Same behavior on Google Chrome and Firefox, so I don't think it is a browser issue. I do see the "1 person likes this" message, but no Thumbs-up/Like hyperlink. I checked the DOM and that element is just not there.

Tapatalk, btw, currently doesn't work at all. I believe SMF requires a plugin to enable Tapatalk which might not have been installed yet after the server rebuild.

I use safari and do see all the options that Devlyn showed you. I am more glad to help you troubleshoot it so we can make sure you are seeing everything you   Should be. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on February 16, 2024, 11:07:13 PMI use safari and do see all the options that Devlyn showed you. I am more glad to help you troubleshoot it so we can make sure you are seeing everything you  Should be. Hugs
Mariah

Thanks for your offer, Mariah, but the issue has been fixed. As I suspected, it wasn't a browser issue, but it had to do with group memberships and one's setting for the default group (I had joined the MTF Transsexual group, but that action also set that group to be my default group, which didn't have all required permissions. Changing the default group back to Registered Members fixed the issue).

Hugs,

Heidemarie

@LoriDee
Dear LoriDee:
Welcome back to Susan's Place and the Forum...  I see that you have already
re-introduced yourself on the INTRODUCTION subforum.  Click Link below:
  https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,247394.msg2263918.html#msg2263918

There you will find my Welcome Message along with important information and helpful Links
that you should read to get updated on the updated guidelines of the Forum.

Thank you for finding your way back...
Warm Regards,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator

Quote from: LoriDee on February 16, 2024, 10:22:12 PMI think I may have been one of those who was inactive and got tossed.  ;D
No one's fault. I was inactive due to various issues, ya'know... life.  Was homeless for a short period, but now in a new apartment and trying to reconnect (now that I have internet again). I had to create a new account, but I am pretty sure I remembered my username and just signed up again with (I think), the same name... or a variation thereof.  ;D

Quote from: Iztaccihuatl on February 16, 2024, 11:59:30 PMThanks for your offer, Mariah, but the issue has been fixed. As I suspected, it wasn't a browser issue, but it had to do with group memberships and one's setting for the default group (I had joined the MTF Transsexual group, but that action also set that group to be my default group, which didn't have all required permissions. Changing the default group back to Registered Members fixed the issue).

Hugs,

Heidemarie

I'm glad you were able to get that figured out. Those kind of issues we have been working on since the site came back after the outage. Hugs
Mariah

It took me so long to get above the 15 posts for a profile pic too, and now it's gone.  :icon_cry2:

Paypal still shows my subscription as active, so I hope that the donations are still going through. Is there somewhere I can post or ask to verify that the payments through PayPal are still going where they should?

@Diffidence
Dear Diffidence:
A Warm Welcome back to the Forum after the New Year's site crash.  I am glad that you were
able to reactivate your member account. 
Be sure to read all of the other announcements that have been posted that will inform you of
what had happened and what changes, updates and new policies here on the Susan's Place Forum.

Please re-introduce yourself and let our members know of your return to the Forum and find your
way to the Introductions Forum (https://www.susans.org/index.php/board,8.0.html) to briefly tell all of the older and newer members about yourself.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  Be looking for my very next posting on this thread where I will be assisting
you to take care of the two issues that you mentioned in your posting:
    -->  Your Avatar/Profile Picture
    -->  Your GOLD Subscriber Subscription

To refresh your memory and to make it easy for you to explore the updated rules and policies
be sure to look at the LINKS below.

You will not be able to send private Forum messages until you reach 15 postings so if you
need to contact me with any questions please message me via my Email  alaskandanielle@yahoo.com

Again, a Warm Welcome back to Susan's Place and the Forum.
Regards,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,2.0.html)

Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,54369.0.html)

Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,114.0.html.)

Cautionary Note (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,82221.0.html)

News posting & quoting guidelines (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,174951.0.html)

Photo, avatars, & signature images policy (https://www.susans.org//index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)

Membership Agreement (https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,216851.0.html)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

QuoteIt took me so long to get above the 15 posts for a profile pic too, and now it's gone.  :icon_cry2:

Paypal still shows my subscription as active, so I hope that the donations are still going through. Is there somewhere I can post or ask to verify that the payments through PayPal are still going where they should?

@Diffidence
Dear Diffidence:

Per the "Subscription Log" I am seeing that you had a GOLD subscription that had expired .... 
    Go to the LINK below:
--> https://www.susans.org/index.php?action=profile;area=subscriptions

If your PayPal account shows that you have submitted current payment(s) please Email me a screenshot so
that I can verify the payment(s) and re-activate your GOLD Subscription...
...you will also need to give me the Start and End dates for your subscription.

Regarding your Profile Photo, you can Email the photo to me and I can reinstate your Avatar/Profile picture right away.

My Email is alaskandanielle@yahoo.com

I will expeditiously handle and solve those issues quickly once I receive your Email.

Warm Regards,
Danielle  [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator