Post #270825 by Coco Loco on Wed, Dec 6, 2006 2:25 PM

I have lots of thoughts on this topic. I'm glad you cared enough to address it MM.

Yes, it seems to go in waves. And things do evolve. Some people have moved on, some are busy for weeks at a time -- then jump back in, some check every day but don't post, and the artisans seem to post more frequently (than non-artisans) these days.

Hukilau and Tiki Oasis do correlate with posting spikes. These events foster social aspects of TC. Folks who haven't posted in a while greet current posters warmly (for the most part). It reminds me of a family reunion at times.

Many people have a very strong affinity for TC. Some who have left still come back and visit, and there are others who have left for good still have very strong feelings about TC, and newbies continue to join with newfound interest in Tiki...all which lead me to believe that TC is alive and kicking.

I'm often perplexed by lurkers. At any given time there are 35 - 65 people 'currently browsing'. Interestingly enough, only a few sign in: 5 - 15. Not sure why more aren't signed in? Lurkers? Former posters? Researchers? Who knows? Guess that's what's good about TC though. It's an open forum that anyone interested in Tiki can benefit from.

As you said Monkeyman, 'it's about the people' and their contributions to this site. If more of the '35 - 65 browsers's participated, a definite shot in the arm would be achieved. If someone's interested enough to consistently check out this site, they should be posting and contributing to it. That's my opinion.

You know, I'm thinking, perhaps the concept of posting to this site could be intimidating. I mean, to the outside world we're considered Tikiphiles, and are kind of a tough group to crack. The discoveries have been made. We've seen the cycles, discussions, and arguments before.

However, there's more: There's a commonality of interests amongst many of us. A shared similar sense of humor. A common perspective of the world. We've gotten away from talking about common interests and laughing - dare I say beyond the art and historical aspects, which may have hindered the social feeling of this board. I don't know if there's any one answer, but I think that loosening up, sharing interests, and laughing, plus simple contributions from more the '35 - 55' browser group would be helpful. Just some thoughts.

[ Edited by: Coco Loco 2006-12-06 15:37 ]