Friday, January 20, 2023

Epbot Is Changing: It's Time To PIVOT

Hi, friends! Happy Friday!

You probably noticed I've been doing more video content lately, mostly to stay afloat on social media. It's been a hard adjustment, and I've grumbled the whole way, but it's also kind of exciting to create in a new format and see Epbot numbers actually grow again.

Meanwhile, readership here on the blog continues to dwindle. And hey, I get it, most people don't read blogs anymore. The fact that you're still here is incredible, and your support means everything to me, but the online world has moved on. Unfortunately all I can do from here is continue to lose readers.

Also at stake are my mental health and stress levels, as I juggle what is in essence a second full-time job creating and promoting videos and social media posts, all to push people towards this blog, when most are happy with just the videos and posts! John and I've been running full speed since October, giving it our all, but our all isn't working, and something's gotta give.

So starting today, Epbot the blog is going on the back burner. It will still be here - for all of us - but I don't plan to post here again anytime soon. Instead, I'll be doing three things:

First I'm going to rest, because I can't remember the last time I was bored. I can't remember the last time I felt like I'd done enough to take the night off. I've made my living online for 15 years. Fifteen years! The increasing demand to do more, to be more, to craft an update so compelling the algorithm might show it to even a fraction of you... it's a lot. So I'm going to breathe, be still, reset my brain, and let myself dream big dreams again.

Second, John and I are going to spend more time offline, helping people in real life. Our greatest passion has always been serving others, and we already have a list of projects scheduled to get us started. Over the next few months we'll be painting, organizing, decorating, and offering home repairs around Orlando again, all for free. Y'all. I can't wait to work a job that gives me confidence again, without the second-guessing. I can't wait to measure the value of my day by more than post reach, and feel that bone-deep satisfaction of leaving something better than we found it. I want to make helping others in a tangible way my priority, and give Epbot the extras - not the other way around.

And third, I'll continue posting on social media as usual, plus experimenting with longer videos for YouTube later on. Yep, don't worry, I'm not really going anywhere! I'll still be sharing fun builds, events, and silly life stuff. So if you already follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube, not much will change. In fact you may see me more!

I can't promise much as I figure out what this next chapter looks like, so I understand if this change leaves you sad or disappointed. I love and appreciate every one of you, and your friendship has given me life, joy, and purpose for the last 12 years. For those of you who've supported John and I financially - well first, thank you - and also please know we won't be hurt or offended at all if you step away after this. Truly. It's ok. John and I have game-ified being frugal to the point that it's second nature, and we're fortunate to have enough little irons in the fire - online and off - that we'll be fine. If you do want to keep supporting us, then know your money will go towards our work for others. (Work I hope to share more of!)

Like I said, this site isn't going anywhere: it will still be my home base of archives, templates, FAQs, etc. The Squeegineer give-aways will also continue every month. Community wise, both Fans of Epbot on Facebook and the Epbot Discord are going strong, and are independently run by amazing Epbot volunteers so we have a place to hang out together. Plus who knows, I may post here again! I just know for now, for this season, I'm ready to spend more time offline, get my hands dirty, and find fresh ways to share my joys and passions with you.

This decision has been YEARS in the making, but I don't mind telling you I'm scared spit-less. I don't like change. I'm even more terrified of failure. But I also believe we should make decisions based on hope, not fear, and this decision gives me so much hope.

I can't wait to see what happens next.

See you out there, friends and FoE.



109 comments:

  1. I am glad you aren’t disappearing I love your viewpoint and amazing creativity, that being said you have to live life too. Looking forward to seeing where and what you do next.

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  2. Take care of yourselves. Thank you for your time.

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  3. I’m so proud of you for doing the scary change thing in order to keep yourself healthy and fulfilled. 🎉

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  4. I am selfishly very sad because I try hard to completely avoid the socials and I make a point of reading here every Tuesday and Friday. But it sounds like you are doing what is best for you and that is fantastic. Congratulations on making a difficult decision and thank you for all the entertainment you have provided!

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  5. I love reading your new posts here, but I get it. And you 1000% deserve a rest, relaxation, time to do things that enrich and encourage you. Take care of yourself!

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  6. Feels a little like the end of an era - I remember when you announced the start of this blog over on CW, and have enjoyed reading nearly every blog post since then (I've enjoyed them all, but missed a handful here and there, haha). But I'm happy for you all to pursue the things that feel worthwhile to you, and to take some time to rest! You certainly deserve it.

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  7. I have viewed every post here as a gift (and I've read them all, for 12 wonderful years). You deserve to take care of yourself as well as you've taken care of this community you've built. Thank you for all of the past, and thank you in advance for whatever you choose to share with us in the future, wherever that may be and whatever form it takes.

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  8. i've enjoyed your blog for so long, and cakewrecks that brought me here. Am toodling over to youtube to subscribe.
    I'll always be an

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  9. Going to miss seeing you here but so excited for all the joy ahead for you both!

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  10. I'm so glad you will be able to spend more time pursuing things that fill you up! You deserve all the best and more. Thank you for your time online, creating this space, and being a happy little corner of the internet!

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  11. You do what's best for you! I really mean that. But I will say I'm kind of heartbroken - I still read a lot of blogs, because reading content is far easier for me to do than watching video, and so much is video these days that it's just gotten to be too much for me to follow properly. I'll miss you so much, but I hope you are happy and healthy in your new venture. <3

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  12. I'll miss reading your posts (I'm still old school!) but you obviously have to do what's best for you. Thank you so much for sharing so much and creating this safe and happy space for others! Good luck and have fun!

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  13. I say good for you! I've seen more and more of the artists I follow profess the same burnout due to the constant churn and changing of algorithms. Quite a few have even returned to email subscriptions to reach people. It's a crazy time. I love that you both do the work you do to help people and I love that you get to do it even more! You do you!

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  14. I have been a reader here for all 12 of these years and of course I will miss you posting because to me nothing beats a great blog. I don’t do social media but I do check out YouTube so I hope to keep up with your amazing crafts there! Thank you and John so much for what you’ve shared here over the years! You deserve a rest and this opportunity to pivot to what will truly bring you joy. Looking forward to this next chapter!

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  15. Jen and John, I hope you both have SUCH a wonderful time pursuing the things you love. xoxoxo

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  16. Just to say - From a religous reader (if not commenter) - thank you for sharing yourself and your life with us. This wonderful blog has helped me and given me something to look forward to - it is rare to find a blog that is real about life and gives a space of joy at the same time. I am so deeply grateful.

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  17. Feels like the end of an era, which is always emotional, but I'm also so happy for and proud of you!! Seriously, you guys are amazing, and I'm excited to see what all you do, even if I'm seeing less. I love how caring you are in tangible ways and I think dedicating more time to that is so wonderful. You have made such an impact on me, various artists and individuals, so nothing will ever change that!

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  18. Be well, and be free!

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  19. You guys are THE BEST, I can't imagine if you had never created this community. You have brought so much happiness to so many people. All the best to you - Always.

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  20. First of all, thank you for all you've shared over the years- the joy, the sadness, the crafts, the love, all of it. You absolutely deserve a break, and I'm happy for you that you're doing what's right for you. On the other hand, I'm incredibly sad to see you go. I'm not on Instagram or Discord and I'm cutting back on FB (though I've been a FoE since the start of the group), so I'm not sure how much of your content I'll get to see. I love this blog, it's been my "comfy place" for many years. I feel like you share here in ways that I don't think we'll see in video content (hard to imagine a video all about finding & fitting a good bra!). I don't like how the internet has changed in ways that make things harder for people, both "content producers" (ugh, hate that phrase) and their audiences. Your blog was one spot to find it all; now I fear I will miss things if they're only shared in one place/medium. And I will miss you. And John. A lot. I feel like I've gone on so many adventures over the years via your blog- Dapper Days and antique markets and delightfully over-the-top Halloween decorating and scrumptious house tours and clever, pun-filled (and fun-filled) parties. I feel like I'm losing a friend who's moving far away and we promise we'll keep in touch but we both know that life gets in the way. If you have suggestions for your "old school" fans who aren't big on social media for how to keep up with what you're sharing, I think a lot of us folks would appreciate it. You are an amazing and magical person, and your & John's relationship is so inspirational, and I'm so glad you've been part of my life (even from far, far away) for so long. Cheers.

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    1. I echo everything this person just said. This blog has also been my comfy place and I will very much miss it. But I totally understand your need to step back from it. Put on your own oxygen mask first . . . I'll miss you both so very much. Take Care

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    2. I also echo this!! Miss this blog very much.

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    3. Another echo here too. Good luck and I'll miss you too.

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  21. Off to Insta!! Somehow missed that one. You do you. We get what we get and we won't pitch a fit. See you around the pixels!!! So glad you'll still be around. ❤️

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  22. Thank you so much for all the joy you've brought us! I hope your next venture brings you all the peace and joy you desire.

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  23. I'll miss your awesome posts but I completely understand how much work it is! I'm definitely already following you on socials so I look forward to seeing the work that gives you life. And some REST is definitely in order!

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  24. Thanks so much for giving us so many years of your time. I'll miss the blog posts, but they are so much work for increasingly little (traffic) reward. See you on social media!

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  25. As sad as it was to read this post, please know we wish you both all the joy and happiness in the world! May your future endeavors be fulfilling and bring you happiness. Thank you for everything you have given to all of us: the laughter, the happiness, the smiles (so many of those), the creative ideas, the cat advice, the event recaps that many of us can not attend, the reassurance that not being ok is still ok, and even the tears. The list is longer than that, but you get the idea. :)

    May this new chapter be a great one for you and John, and we hope to hear all about it in the future! *BIG HUGS* and a BIG THANK YOU for many wonderful years!

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  26. You are such a wonderful writer, I will miss these, but self care is important and the world changes.
    Be well!

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  27. I hope this change is everything you want it to be! You've given us so much over the years, you deserve to be happy! I look forward to the new stuff in whatever format works best!

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  28. Congratulations! If the Prime Minister of New Zealand can do it, so can you! :)

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  29. Hi! Thank you so much for all your posts. I have been reading here for a long time! I will miss your regular updates, but I do understand the need for rest, change, growth, etc. I am not on social media at all, but I do like clicking on your videos from this platform. I was wondering if it would still be possible to post the content you make here, just without the "blog" / writing element to it. I think a lot of us long time readers would love to keep up with your shenanigans, but like me will likely not sign up for social media just for that. It may be an easy way to keep this blog somewhat active, as well. Just a thought! All the best to you!! And thank you muchly!

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  30. I just sent my mom your blog -- she and my dad are the OG LOTR geeks (I read The Silmarilion alongside the Bible as a kid... hahah) -- and was just telling her this afternoon that yours is the one nice place left on the internet, populated with lovely people. Thank you for giving us this gift!! And take care of yourself. <3 Wearing my brand-new Epbot-y crossbody bag tonight in your honor.

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  31. Taking care of yourself is the most important thing! Happy to hear that you will be around!

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  32. I'm truly happy that you both are doing what you want and need to do for you. I'm also selfishly sad to lose my favorite (and only) blog that I follow. I'm just very much not a video person. But that's my issue, not yours. Go, be free, follow your passion and all that! I'll see ya' on FB.

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  33. As others, I want to say a hearty “Thank You Guys!!!” You have inspired me consistently for the past 12 years with your creativity, hard work, generosity, vulnerability, kindness, and kitty photos (and the post surgery recovery suit!!! What a Godsend! Simone says meOWOwwowwow!”) you’re in my auto feed thingy so if you pop on every now and then I’ll pop in and have a good read - if not, the memories will bring me back to kick my crafty projects back in gear! (Still processing how to redo the fireplace surround and mantle in pink foam, but also thinking about other ways to faux architectural details!)
    I love you both and wish you well with your service projects and any other life pursuits you desire! Smooches from SOCAL where you have a standing invitation if you ever need a free room close to Walt’s original dream!

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  34. I started with Cakewrecks (the plaid wedding cake is still my all-time fav) and have loved Epbot maybe even more. I love your love of all geekiness, the cool things you find, and the AMAZING things you build. (I do a lot of kid library programming and I am in awe of your creativity and ability to make something spectacular out of nearly nothing.) But most of all, I appreciate you sharing your journey with us. My children have grown up during these years and one of them in particular has had a hard road in adolescence -- yours was the first kind voice I heard about loving ourselves and caring for our mental health. Your encouragement is one of the reasons I speak out in my world now, to try to be that voice to others. I know you'll keep spreading your light in whatever new paths you travel. Love and luck to you and John.

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  35. 1. Thank you, I've loved this blog!
    2. Ooh, go have fun making things!
    3. For those of us who do better with written words, may I share your frustration in the video push?
    4. I cannot emphasize how much I'll miss this blog. Really, truly, have loved it, even if I've mostly lurked.

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  36. I will miss this blog as it did not feel so pressured to interact with at the pace of modern social media but you must do what your heart calls you to do and taking care of yourselves is the most important part. I consider my monthly donation a donation towards helping you guys help others anyway so nothing changes really. Thank you for the all the beautiful content you've done and being the people you are.

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  37. Take care of yourselves! Looking forward to more after you have a rest!

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  38. I must say, videos do very badly with my character. I'm still on discussion boards, though, so I am maybe not the typical person. I loved your posts with detailed step by step photos. It helped me tackle project with confidence, and I love to read the detail and see how you made stuff, instead of hitting play and pause on a video, or playing with the speed.
    I understand though that you need new challenges and be up to date with today's internet. I'm just say to see one more feed on my RSS reader (oh yeah, also one of those) who will go more and more silent.
    Thanks for all the good years, Epbot! Continue to spread happiness everywhere!

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  39. Sending you TONS of lurv and well-wishes. I found CakeWrecks first, then naturally progressed here. FOE is my happy place. THANK YOU for every snigger, every chuckle, and every fantastical dream you have brought to life-for yourself AND all of us.

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  40. I've been reading Cake Wrecks almost from the beginning and loving Epbot since you started. As a fellow blogger, I totally get it - you don't live your life for us, you live it for yourselves. I'm grateful for you and John for sharing so much of your lives with us, and always in a funny, kind and understanding way. I feel like you're both friends! Thank you for all of it, Jen!!

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  41. Finishing one Well Done and on to the next! Using your talents to benefit others is a fabulous gift of love. Praying this new chapter brings overflowing blessings beyond imagination! ❤️🧡💛 Missy

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  42. Im sad for me, but happy that you are doing what is right for you! I think we all hate change, and crave it as well. Hugs, enjoy, and keep us posted in which ever manner works for you!

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  43. I remember first reading Cake Wrecks when you had only a couple pages of previous posts. The girls and I have adored you from afar from the very beginning of EPBOT. The first day of FoE is an annual holiday on our calendar (along with many other fun days the girls invented). A certain roseate follower has stated that she wants to be Miss Jen when she grows up. 💝💝💝💝💝. We will miss you desperately, but I am so glad you’re prioritizing your health and joy and generosity. Algos are cruel taskmasters, and I’m glad you’re escaping. Thank you for creating and inspiring so many hours of joy in our lives already. I look forward to new and different doses of joy from you. 💝💝💝💝💝

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  44. That is so dang cool. Thank you for the years of uplifting posts and cringe-inducing puns.

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  45. Thank you for creating wonderful content for so long. I remember being in the hospital back in 2009 or 2010 trying to explain to my nurses why I found so much joy in Cake Wrecks. You helped me find funny in the messed up. Your crafts here and on Instagram have inspired me to be creative, and I am so delighted that you are choosing to take care of yourselves. Rest matters.

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  46. Thank you so much for this blog. It was there when I really needed it. I will continue following no matterwhat form you all take.

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  47. Thanks for everything !

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  48. Jen, thank you so much. I can’t believe it’s been 12 years! Go forth in happiness, hope and well-being, and wishing all the best for you, John, and the kitties.

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  49. I have always enjoyed your posts, from the silly to the thought-provoking. From the beginning, I was under the impression that Epbot was your diversion from Cake Wrecks - a separate place where you could share more personal, goofy, and fandom stuff. Your more recent posts, confirm that Epbot has become another job and obligation. Honestly, I've never had any expectation for how often or what content you share. Whenever you do, it brings some joy and I feel a connection to a kindred spirit. It is very appropriate for you to re-evaluate and make choices that will bring you joy. Like an old friend, whenever or however, you reconnect, I'll be here to listen.

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  50. Wishing you well deserved rest and success on the next leg of your journey. Thank you for sharing your creativity, joys, strength, and struggles with us. It has been a pleasure.

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  51. Genuinely just happy you’re still sharing the creative stuff you get up to and the pics of your fellow creative cosplayers! Quiet follower here, just glad you’re doing what works for you. Good move and thank you!

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  52. I'll miss this blog, thank you for keeping on with this as long as you did.

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  53. Have been a lurker since the beginning, thanks for the many years of wonderful posts. Best of luck with the video content and your future endeavours!

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  54. I'm sad to hear this, and I'll miss Epbot very much — it's one of the only two still running from my early days of exploring the internet, and it's always been a site that brings me a great deal of happiness and joy. (I am also perpetually railing against the video-fication of everything, but that's nothing new.) That said, I understand what you mean about dwindling numbers from my own blogs. I respect that you're making the choice that's best for you, and I wish you all the best and will continue to follow on the socials. Thank you for keeping things going this long.

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  55. I've also been with Epbot since the beginning, coming over from CW. It's one of the very few blogs I follow, and is so wonderful - I'll miss it terribly! I'll join you over on Youtube, I do enjoy your videos, and I totally get it that things have moved on and you need to do what you need to do, and you deserve to be happy and healthy :-). But I hope you don't give up up writing completely - you are a brilliant writer, so witty, warm, personal...! Hopefully when it's not under pressure and you don't feel burnt out, you'll recover or rediscover a joy in that and share some of it with us once in a while <3 Be well

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  56. So so PROUD of you for making this choice for yourself and John’s well-being and happiness and hope! That should always come first, and even though this was a hard decision, it definitely seems like the right one. I wish for absolutely amazing rest for you, and for joyful meaningful house projects and connection that way. We love you!!!

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  57. Oh, no! This blog by "my fake friends in Florida" helped me raise my daughter into the geek princess she was destined to be. Thank you for pouring out your gifts on all of us. Epbot will always hold a special place in our hearts. May God bless you in your continuing adventures!

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  58. Definitely among the sad ones about this. I kind of hate that social media has decided that videos are the way, and that all content on every platform is best when it's videos. Sigh. That said, I echo everyone else in thanking you for everything you've given and continue to give, and I fully endorse doing what you need to do to take care of yourself. I'll keep the blog in my blog reader, and will look forward to whatever sporadic posts ever happen to pop up (even if it's, like, once a year, or not for several years). And I'll keep following you on IG, and also look forward to seeing what evolution your content takes now. Thanks again for everything!

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  59. We've never met, but whenever I talk about your content to my husband I always say "my friend Jen." And we have to be proud and supportive when our friends take risks and focus on their passions. Routing for you both and can't wait to watch anything you post! Let your creativity and giving spirits guide you!

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  60. I'm extremely saddened by this, as this is the only place I follow Epbot - the other formats are simply not for me, and I've always felt that the blog has been where the quality content was.
    But that being said I understand that you need to prioritise your life, and that you need to do that according to your own needs, wants and plans for the future. So while I am personally sad to see you (both of you!) go, I wish you all the best for the future. And I will keep the blog in my feed, for when you update us all that you have made it big and are living your best life in endless luxury! ;)

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  61. I am one of the few who enjoys reading a blog vs. watching a video, but, you need to do what is best for you and taking time for yourselves and helping people sounds fantastic! Will definitely miss the blog, but will continue to follow Epbot in whatever form it takes. Please yourselves first, don't worry about what the rest of us think! Thanks for all the great content. Love you guys!!!!

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  62. I think you need to do what makes you happy and feeling fulfilled but I won't lie, I did shed a tear while I read this. I'm not much of a social media person, actually dislike most of it, so I will definatly miss you guys! But, I fully support your decision to move into the next phase of your lives. Good luck and follow your bliss.

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  63. I've lurked here for 12 years. I was an early reader because Cake Wrecks made me so happy. Know thatyou have brought joy to my life for a long, long time. Thank you for everything! I wish you the best in everything you do. If you go at it with the love and care you've brought to this blog, you'll do just fine. Thanks again!

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  64. For all you have given us, you deserve nothing but happiness and good fortune. We have been blessed to benefit not only from your knowledge and creativity, but to get to know you. I understand you have important reasons for making this decision and that it couldn't have been easy, but here's one more person adding to the chorus wanting you to know you will be missed. The other social media platforms better appreciate the shining stars you are and all the goodness you have brought to so many. And if not, some of us will be right here, waiting for your light to shine through this window again. Hailing frequencies closed, Captain.

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  65. I'm so very proud of you for making a healthy but difficult decision. I'm already subscribed over on YouTube, and Instagram and Facebook, so cheers to you both as you step into something that will benefit others in a new way and you in a soul filling way. Keeping being you and you will change the world around you for the better.

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  66. Gonna miss the blog! I've been reading on and off since the start (way more on recently), and I really hate watching videos so for me this is terrible news ... but I totally understand your decision and I'll happily follow along the insta stories instead!

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  67. I’ve been reading and enjoying the blog for years, though this is the first time I’ve commented. I love your creativity, heart for service, sense of humor, and- hah!- the whole shebang! Thank you for sharing your lives here for all these years. Wishing you rest, regeneration, and loads of joy going forward. You are loved!!

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  68. Thanks for all the years you put in here, Jen! I've really appreciated Epbot being one of the last true blogs rather than videos - I have some trouble with audio processing and thus tend to prefer articles and blog posts rather than videos. I also deliberately stay away from daily social media (FB, IG, TT), so I'm not sure how much of your posts I'll still get to see. I'm grateful the archives will still be here though! Much affection from a decade-long reader.

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  69. This makes me sad, but I understand that you and John need to take care of yourselves. You've helped me through some tough times. Be well, my friends.

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  70. As a longtime reader (and one time art winner!), I don't know how anyone keeps up with the nagging that is content creation. You have contributed beautiful things and wherever you guys go, I will follow. I hope you get some wonderful rest! ❤️

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  71. Your happiness and mental health are important, and making time for friends old and new. I completely understand your putting Epbot on the back burner. I will miss your posts - even the how-tos on crafts I knew that I would never make. Sometimes work and chores overtake the pleasure of visiting this space, but I always return. I love your videos on Youtube and Instagram content as well - but I hope that if you discover a wonderful book uncover an important insight, that you return to say it here. I have read and done things because of Epbot or FoE. Thanks for making me laugh, for sharing beautiful, funny, and sometimes punny things with us.

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  72. You 2 are the Best. I'm excited for you as you transition into the next phase of your journey in your life. We will continue to see you 2 at events and love the time we spend laking about all your craft projects. Here's to the future ❤️

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  73. Good luck on your future endeavors! I've left all social media behind for my own mental health, so losing this blog kinda means losing all of your content, but I fully understand wanting to try something different after such a long time. Thanks for all the fish.

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    1. This. I'm sad I'll lose all your content, and sad another blog is being abandoned. Why not focus on the blog and ditch social media? ;) I guess for most people this is an unthinkable joke, but oh how I wish it were true. When someone has something to say, it is so much easier to read a lovely in-depth well-written piece than try to eke information out of a video. Videos are so frustrating! And social media is . . . not for me. Oh well, it's good to get offline so I wish you happiness in doing that.

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  74. I join in with the others who have said I will miss this blog and miss you. I've been here since the beginning, coming from CW. Since I don't do social media, this news is sad to me, selfishly, but on the other hand I'm happy for you and the difficult decision you couldn't put off any longer and your new adventures. I wish you two the best. Happy 2023.

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  75. Good for you guys! Hoping you keep following wherever your bliss leads you. And thank you for inspiring such amazing communities of people. I look forward to seeing the projects you share in future!


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  76. Praying for you two and this new project! You make this world better, and it makes me happy knowing you're out there in it!

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  77. I've been a long time reader, and I fully support this! Nothing is more important that you and John. It's important to take care of you and take that well deserved break. It has always been so much fun to read about what the two of you are creating, and I love that you want to use your talents to help others. That is such an admirable thing to do, and you both are so good at it. Looking forward to whatever it is that you decide to do in the future.

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  78. I am another who has avoided the socials in my online viewing so far, but had regularly come to Epbot, so I too want be sure to let you know how much I have enjoyed reading your blog all these years. Thank you so much for including all of in your adventures, interests, laughter, plights, triumphs, friends and fun.

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  79. First, thank you so much for all you’ve given through epbot over the years. I’ve made so many of your projects and have gotten so much inspiration and techniques for others. “The epbot lady” (as I’ve described you to my son since he was small) is now famous in my family. Second, I’m so glad you’re taking care of yourself and putting your talents in a fulfilling place—I want you to get all the joy you can from your talents, because you deserve it. Finally, I’m so sad to see the blog end. It’s been my internet happy place for years, and while I’m on FOE and have checked out instagram, there is no replacement for your unique voice. Thank you for sharing it, and I’m sending you good thoughts for this next phase.

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  80. I am not on social media - might quickly check facebook quickly once every couple of weeks to keep tabs on family. But this blog has been something i have really enjoyed, since i came across it 8 or 9 years ago. I understand & respect your decision, but i will miss your stories, your builds & your struggles & triumphs. I just wanted to say thank you for allowing us to come along for the ride. Best of luck to both you & John.

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  81. Here's a challenge for everyone, start re-reading the blog from the very beginning. I'm looking forward to seeing which posts I remember and which ones I don't! ~SM3

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  82. Standing ovation! I have followed this blog since day one. I follow you on Youtube. I enjoy all of that content and will do so for however long you decide to post there. Do not be "terrified of failure". Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don't. I love Yoda, but he was wrong, there is try. You will be helping others, that's always worth a try.

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  83. Thank you, Jen and John. Wishing you both the best.

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  84. Thank you for providing this update. You both are awesome and I'll miss your blog updates. I follow you on FB too, so I'll look for you there. Good luck with this next stage in your life and I wish you and your kitties a healthy and happy future! Love you!

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  85. Hi Jen and John! I won't lie that this post made me somewhat sad. I've been following your blog for years now. But I figured this day was coming. Social media has been on this unrelenting ride, constantly changing and making certain platforms irrelevant and inaccessible to large audiences in short periods of time. When I saw you doing YouTube videos and shorts, along with IG stories, I was like, this all seems like too much. It does start to make one feel old when a medium you enjoy (like blogs) is no longer the place to be. But oh well...life goes on and I completely understand you wanting to move on. See you on YouTube and at future DragonCon meetups!

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  86. Thanks for all the joy and fun over the years! Enjoy!

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  87. I always loved your blog posts. The decorating ones, the crafting ones, the party ones, and the introspective ones! I prefer text and pictures over videos, but I understand that a lot of people think otherwise and you need to go with the times, so to speak. I already follow you on youtube, so I will keep following your work.

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  88. Oh! I am selfishly disappointed to hear your news. I first visited EPBOT for the girliness - I have no idea how I stumbled across it, but the first post of yours I read was your bra post - and I stayed for the geekery, goofing off, and cats. Some of the things I've discovered from your blog have changed my life for the better so I hope this change changes your life for the better. Please don't give up on writing completely Jen! You have a true talent for writing with warmth and wit. Thank you for all you and John have shared with us over the years. It is sad to see this chapter close, but I wish you all the best for the next one.

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  89. I've been here, mostly lurking quietly, since the beginning. Although our major point of overlap has been Harry Potter, it's been fun to see your creativity and celebration of other geeky things (and of course, to squeal in delight when post LotR content). I've felt these changes coming - I've noticed that you've slowly been posting more video content, and I have to admit that I've often skipped watching them even when they're embedded in the blog. So this may be a parting of the ways, but I totally get that you need to follow the best path for you, and I wish you all the joy you can hold as you find your new direction.

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  90. I hope this change works well for you. It will be very sad for me as I keep looking for places with words instead of videos. I really dislike videos. But I know I am in the minority. I wish you well.

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  91. I'm sorry to see that these posts are ending, but am glad that you have the courage to make a change you think is needed. I don't so social media in the traditional sense, so I will keep checking here to see if there are any new crafts. Maybe when something is posted elsewhere, a link will magically appear here? Thank you for all the love you put into this place, and God bless you and John!

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  92. I will really miss reading your blog. I have really enjoyed it over the years. Definitely more a words person than video. But because it's you guys i will give it a red hot go. Thanks for all the splendiferous words

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  93. Wow, so many feels. I hope you are proud of making the hope and love decision despite the fears. That’s incredible and inspiring. It’s not exactly so long, but thanks for all the fish, nonetheless. See you around the inter webs, I look forward to reading or viewing more as it comes and I wish you lots of love and fulfillment ❤️

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  94. Loong time reader here, both of CW and Epbot. I don't do Facebook anymore (or Instagram since it's owned by FB) so this blog is the way I've been interacting with you all and following your adventures. I'm not a big YouTuber--rather just read words. So I'll miss this blog and your honest and beautifully written posts, but you should absolutely do what's best for you. I am so grateful for the many years you put into this online space and wish you and John the very, very best. Thanks for the photos, the how-to's (even though I'm the least crafty person possible), and for explaining how to buy a bra that fits! Much love. --FM

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  95. Sure, I'll watch videos. I'm most interested in build videos of your projects.

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  96. I will miss your voice very much, but you have to do what is best for you. I will say for myself that I hope someday you come back. Much love and gratitude to you both.

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  97. I will miss your voice. All the best to you both going forward

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  98. Good luck with this next stage! I'll miss the blog, but I"m glad you're on other platforms as well!

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  99. I love the blog and will miss it very much, but I am 100% behind Jen and John doing whatever works best for them! I'm not a social media expert at ALL, but just want to drop a word of caution around what Cory Doctorow has called the "ensh*ttification" process of platforms. The fact of HAVING to do more social-media content just to avoid losing value sounds like part of the "locking-in" of suppliers that Doctorow speaks of, and I don't want you to get burned by it. But you know your own business better than I do, and all we want is that you take care of yourselves and get what you need!

    Love from a forever fan of Epbot and CakeWrecks,
    Kimstu

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  100. I am so proud of you for making this big decision and going with what is best for you. Whatever your next steps bring, I support you, and will go find you on Instagram!

    Much love, peace, and joy to you both from another forever fan of Epbot and CW

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  101. Thank you for all you've built! What a success. Long -ime fan. Enjoy the break.

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  102. Been here since the beginning and glad to still be here at the end! Thank you for all the fun moments over the years. I save epbot for when I feel sad and come and loose myself in your posts! I will continue to do so every time I need to lift myself up. Maybe I'll just start from the beginning next time and relive all these wonderful years with you. You will always have my gratitude and love

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  103. Thank you for suggesting your Epbot Facebook page. Not a substitute for your blog but lots of fun in its own right.

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