In which - an update and some thoughts on the "R" word.

It's me, Maddy, Caroline's person.

We're still very much here - things have been busy, but not in a bad way. I took three civil service exams back in the spring and I'm currently being canvassed for a job with the county I live in. So I'm anticipating (and looking forward to!) going back to work full-time soon. No more temping. I have plans for some new photostories soon, and some new characters (one from Lovecraft's pantheon!) who will be joining the family. So, all good stuff.

Now, about the "R" word - Recasts.

First, for the record, I am anti-recast. It's not right. It's disrespectful to the artists who make these beautiful dolls. It's also breeding a lot of distrust in the secondary market. It's just not good for the hobby at all.

And the worst part is that a lot of people are afraid to talk about it.

But it IS something we need to talk about. I understand that it's a subject likely to cause a fair amount of debate within a group (and I loathe drama for the sake of "OMG DUH-RAMAAAAA!!!!!!!11111" as much as most other people do) but it's time for frank, honest, mature discussion. We need to have a way for newbies to get real information - not just "RECASTS ARE BAD!" We need to talk about why. What to look out for. What sellers are suspect. How to create an attitude of people wanting that original doll and only that original, where we're proud to say we waited and saved because we wanted the real deal and only the real deal. Most of us are, but not everyone.

We need to stop shying away from discussing recasts and start talking about what we're going to do about them. For everyone's sake.

Okay, rant over. Caroline and company will be back very soon, I promise.