Poll type Question regarding program...

Ive received alot of emails/PMs/comments regarding pals not showing their appreciation for the gifts they've received. Unfortunately.. about the only thing short of removing them from the program altogether, is to ask them to post when they receive their package and to offer a quick note of thanks. I understand, as a sender how frustrating it is to not be appreciated for the time, thought and effort we put into our pals gift every month, my pal hasnt thanked me either, so you're not alone... at this point, what would you all suggest I do? I do not want to lose anyone who fully participates in the program because they feel taken advantage of. Do I send an email out making appreciation/thank you notes MANDATORY for the program, and continue next month to remove anyone who does not do so... or should I start weeding them out this month? Its unfortunate that some people are simply seeing this program as a free gift/handout, when infact gifts have the least to do with what this program is REALLY about. We're here to make friends, brighten each others day with notes and sweet little gestures. If you're not doing any of these things and in it only for the monthly gift, then you dont deserve to be a part of it at all. So.. do I send out an email with the new mandatory rule and give everyone another month to pull their &#%@ together.. or do I start removing them now? Note: This does not include those who have not sent out their gifts for January, they will be removed this month!

First, I want to thank you Anissa for all your hard work. I apprecaite all of your hard work putting this program together. I know from experience that it is hard. So thank you for all your efforts!!!! Second, I joined this to feel better about myself. Just to give things to someone. That old saying says "It is better to give than recieve". I myself was alittle late getting my gift out to my pal. but she should have gotten it today. I already have my february gifts and they will go out Monday. Yes it would be nice to get a response, but just to know the gifts are getting to them, not for myself. We are all adults here and hopefully it is just slow getting started. I would give things one more month, just to give everyone a chance to catch up and get the wrinkles out. But that is just my thoughts. Thanks again for all your hard work!! Love and Hugs, Kelli

HI Annissa I have no problem with the ones that cant reply--so say imediately, but its jsut a matter of them replying at all. For example, the one I buy for has had no contact with me at all---I know we all have lives but it is only polite to let them know some where alongst the way that hey--I am here and thanks--I have been too busy to get in contact with you. Thanks again for heading this up---you are doing a great job! Becky

I say put rule out there and give it another month. I believe in 2nd chances. Jenifer

I too say give them another chance. (Now you see what I mean) I was getting depressed from all the emails....I hope it gets better for you. I hope you are doing well. I am going to Turning stone in March and hopefully meeting some ladies from the Jan 06 board if you are interested in meeting up let me know! ~~hugs and well wishes~~ Chris

I think you should put a rule in place just so every one knows the gift arrived. If they want to thank you that is a whole different issue. Let's give everyone a 2nd chance but it there is no response... then let's cut it loose and save the spots for people who appreciate the kindness of others. Thanks for all your hard work on this! Kelly

Anissa, I'd also say give them one more chance. I do think it's important to let your pal know something was received, so after one more month, I'd make the change. Thanks again for all of your hard work!! Hope your recovery is going well! Wanda

I agree with giving them a second chance..then if there is no response, they obviously reconsidered doing this and I do feel they should be dropped. I was blessed with a great Secret Pal all the way around... GOD Bless Deb

I would vote to give people a second chance to say thank you / notifying someone you received their gift, then maybe give them the boot. I agree that this program is about making new friends and not just getting a gift. I also want to note that I got a strange email in my regular email (not OH pm) from a secret pal yesterday asking if I got my package for January, which I have not, but since this person had never contacted me before I had no idea anything was ever sent?? So this person may think I am an ungrateful secret pal, which I am not, I just never got anything!

I think you shouldn't have to make it a rule that someone says thank you for gods sake! The rule should be that they report they received the gift that way the sender isn't wondering.. if they didn't get it then the receiver isn't thinking WTF no gift? But the mandatory thank you?.... I think it's a shame that you even have to tell someone to say thank you. The rules should be as follows: The sender should email to let their SP know the package is on it's way. The SP should email back that they have recieved it. And if the SP doesn't have enough manners to say thank you.. well.. hopefully next year you get a better SP. HUGGS AND THANKS FOR ALL OF YOUR HARD WORK! smoooooch, Barb