To those keeping an eye on Best Photo Blog Polls to which I was generously nominated and included in Round 5, I would like to explain my decision to withdraw and apologize to everybody who voted for me and to people whose rating has suffered as a result of my withdrawal from the race.
My rating greatly upset one of the Round 5 contestants to the extent that he accused me of faking my results and verbally attacked me, which has made me very upset and sad so I decided to take myself off the poll.
I don’t want any bad experience to spoil my joy of blogging and interacting with some of amazing bloggers out there, nor do I need any more stress and attacks in my life that is stressful enough as it is.
I wanted to give the votes assigned to me to a great photographer and blogger on the Round 5 list, but I understand that that would imply manipulation of votes.
Once again a big thank you to my generous followers and voters.
Tom, I appreciate your words. They touched me really. I never entered myself into that contest and I was honoured and flattered. Now I just want to forget the bad experience and keep this blog as my safe place where I communicate with people I like 🙂 Grazie tanto.
It’s not about the competition anymore, it’s about your dignity. I understand if you don’t get back in there. I’m just tired of bullies and insecure, overly competitive dicks pushing people around unopposed.
That’s just my two cents. I’ll shut up about it now.
Sorry to hear this. I just took a look at the link. I didn’t know this competition existed. Sadly, the premise is flawed, and this will just turn into a popularity contest because of personality, not because of quality of photography.
I follow certain photo sites because I want to, not because someone else tells me I should.
This is what I wrote on a friend’s blog – your words exactly 🙂 I did not know I was that popular. Anyway, I did not choose to be included in the contest, and I am much calmer now. I don’t need people hating me for scoring better than them… Thank you, Draco.
People who. Ritchie’s like that are those who often don’t have talent themselves. I love your photography Paula and believe you have a lot of talent. I am sorry that he has upset you.
I can feel your support and it means a lot. I stopped thinking about reasons. The contest itself is not that big a deal, but it made me happy to see I was popular. Now I just want peace and quiet and peaceful people around 🙂
and that is why I’m not interested in entering of any such competitions as you always find one that cannot loose gracefully and starts this type accusations… such a pity people cant lose…
I’m so sorry to hear about your experience. In my opinion, it just lowers the esteem of the other blogger. I wasn’t aware of the contest, but I’m glad you’re not going to let one bully/very sore loser ruin blogging for you. I truly enjoy your blog and photos. Keep up the good work! PS: You’re the winner in the eyes of your followers! 🙂
Paula, it is sad that people throw in the towel because somebody is obviously very jeallous and, to be honest, unpleasant – It may be too late for you now to retract but next time, dont let negative people get under your skin. I do like your photography. Carina
Thank you very much Carina. I see your point. Now I just want to be at peace. It is lovely to see a new face on my blog. Thank you for your visit and support. Paula
You were accused of faking your results and verbally attacked?!? I must say that people take this blogging shit too seriously!
Sometimes I just wonder what the fuck is going on inside the tiny little fucking brains of some people…
That is awful news. Whether you are on polls or not, I think you are one of the best photographers around, and your work inspires me to take more myself. I’m so glad you share your work here.
he’s the one who should be out! he must have felt threatened by your talent. You’re much wiser and stronger than the guy.
you’ll have other wonderful opportunities to show your work, Paula, because your pictures are absolutely magnificent!
Ne regrette rien! tu fais un travail fabuleux!
bon courage pour la suite
Salut Jul’. Je ne regrette rien, c’est vrai. Je suis un peu boulversee a cause de la mauvaise experience, mais je serai bien bientot. Tous mes remerciments pour ton soutien.
this is why i never take part in like this. people can be such children. you’re better off, paula. you don’t need that in your life. your blog should be a place of fun, not consternation.
Remember what I said yesterday- “What do you care, what other people think (say)?” 😉 cheer up! or else, I might have to start cracking my stock of PJs( that’s a threat, BTW)! 😀
I don’t think this is what Otto had in mind at all in setting up these polls, and those nominated should just live with what the bloggers have voted on. So ridiculous that this has happened to you! There is an idiot in every crowd. Don’t let this bring you down, Paula!
This is sad, Paula, but I understand what you mean by trying to avoid more stress. Blogging is supposed to bring along positive emotions and not rubbish like accusations, offending etc. Your photos are really exquisite – you deserve to be on the top of all of the photo blog polls, most definitely!
I’m so sorry to hear about your bad experience Paula but am relieved to read you find comfort here in the positive and constructive interactions with your blogging friends. I always look forward to reading your new posts and admiring your photography!
Dear Paula – I’m so sorry! That must have been hurtful and stressful too! I love your photos and I’m so sorry you are pulling yourself out…….:-(
Sending you a big warm hug and lots of love XXXX
Thinking of you!!
Vaya Paula!
No tenía ni idea de que este tipo de cosas podían pasar…
Realmente hay gente rara que se escuda en el anonimato para molestar…
No te preocupes..Sabes lo que vales..Y nosotros también…
Querida Ilargia, Te agradezco mucho tus palabras. No era anonimo. Era un email de alguien que firmo, y no me importa irme (nadie me obligo) de la competicion, pero lo que me hizo dano y me aruino salud – (sufro de taquicardia y no necesito mas estress en mi vida) fue el mail lleno de insultos, acusaciones injustas. No dormia toda la noche y ayer casi me desmaye por agotamiento. Es tan injusto. A mi las competiciones, blog awards, estatisticas no me importan nada, pero mi paz si. Un abrazo, Paula
You are kidding, this really happened? Unbelievable! As though life isn’t tough enough without creating petty blog dramas, wow! So sorry to know Paula that this took place but trust that you have walked away with your head held high and dignity intact!
I am so sorry this happened to you Paula and yes, I totally agree with you. No one needs more stress in today’s life. Photography should be fun and not a competition. It’s in instances like this that I am so grateful that my photo’s are not good enough to be there with the professionals. 🙂
You hang in there hon and don’t mind this blogger. It’s all just envy. 😀 *hugs*
Life sucks sometimes, Paula 🙂 I saw your well deserved nomination but not the follow up. Who needs it, and I’m sure Otto wouldn’t want this kind of thing going on either. I’m going back to Chris Rea. Do what you do so well and the hell with them, girl.
🙂 I like Rea a lot :). I wish I could hear your accent and voice Jo :). Is there a chance you can record yourself and put it on your blog some day? (O sole mio comes to mind :O). Thank you for what you have said. You have no idea how much it means – coming from you. P.
It happened, and I am still trying to recover from it. Thank you very much, Uday. I did not mean to announce it on my blog, but I owed an explanation to all the people that voted for me. Thank you for everything….
Hi Paula, this is terrible to hear and I feel bad for you. In the end, you don’t need any validation from polls/votes etc. You have a fantastic blog filled with wonderful, creative and inspiring photos.
Wow! That’s awful Paula! I didn’t know about this. It really is a shame that something that should just be for light hearted fun would turn into something mean spirited. I’m sure you did no vote manipulation and wish this didn’t even happen.
Best,
Phil
Lost in Translation 
Je suis désolée d’apprendre ce qui t’est arrivé, c’est vraiment regrettable que certains participants aient cet état d’esprit ! 😦
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Merci Julie. J’en suis toujours tres secouee…. J’espere qu’il en est content maintenant.
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That’s terrible! I’m so sorry that happened to you. 😦
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Thank you, Jackie.
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Paula — Reconsider. Don’t drop out.
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Tom, I appreciate your words. They touched me really. I never entered myself into that contest and I was honoured and flattered. Now I just want to forget the bad experience and keep this blog as my safe place where I communicate with people I like 🙂 Grazie tanto.
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Yes, fight!
It’s not about the competition anymore, it’s about your dignity. I understand if you don’t get back in there. I’m just tired of bullies and insecure, overly competitive dicks pushing people around unopposed.
That’s just my two cents. I’ll shut up about it now.
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You got it, and you told it as it is. Thank you, Allan.
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Thats sad and never worth it! Just enjoy what you do and voting for art and creation is impossible imo!
I love your work!
Have a great day, Ron
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It is not worth it at all 🙂 I am glad you think so Ron. Have a great rest of the week!
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😦 it’s even worse than you think.. I am Sorry that it is happening with you… Godbless you !!
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🙂 Just reading you makes things easier. Bless you, Amresh.
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Please don’t let idiots stop you from doing anything, Paula….x
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They won’t stop me from doing anything I want. I promise Chris. I have been wondering about you… x
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Glad to hear that… Things haven’t been too good for me so haven’t felt much like posting… Hope you’re okay…x
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Can I help in any way? Let me know, please. I am getting better x
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Thanks, Paula I appreciate that… What was the matter, glad you’re okay…x
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Work stress.. the usual 😉
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Sorry to hear this. I just took a look at the link. I didn’t know this competition existed. Sadly, the premise is flawed, and this will just turn into a popularity contest because of personality, not because of quality of photography.
I follow certain photo sites because I want to, not because someone else tells me I should.
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This is what I wrote on a friend’s blog – your words exactly 🙂 I did not know I was that popular. Anyway, I did not choose to be included in the contest, and I am much calmer now. I don’t need people hating me for scoring better than them… Thank you, Draco.
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People who. Ritchie’s like that are those who often don’t have talent themselves. I love your photography Paula and believe you have a lot of talent. I am sorry that he has upset you.
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I can feel your support and it means a lot. I stopped thinking about reasons. The contest itself is not that big a deal, but it made me happy to see I was popular. Now I just want peace and quiet and peaceful people around 🙂
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and that is why I’m not interested in entering of any such competitions as you always find one that cannot loose gracefully and starts this type accusations… such a pity people cant lose…
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wow- that is so shocking! they know who they are but we don’t- do tell!
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🙂 I can’t tell, but it is not that hard to guess 😉
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I understand. I am a firm believer in ‘what goes around comes around’ Your blog is stunning.
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Thank you for your soothing words 🙂
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I’m so sorry to hear about your experience. In my opinion, it just lowers the esteem of the other blogger. I wasn’t aware of the contest, but I’m glad you’re not going to let one bully/very sore loser ruin blogging for you. I truly enjoy your blog and photos. Keep up the good work! PS: You’re the winner in the eyes of your followers! 🙂
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Paula, it is sad that people throw in the towel because somebody is obviously very jeallous and, to be honest, unpleasant – It may be too late for you now to retract but next time, dont let negative people get under your skin. I do like your photography. Carina
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Thank you very much Carina. I see your point. Now I just want to be at peace. It is lovely to see a new face on my blog. Thank you for your visit and support. Paula
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You were accused of faking your results and verbally attacked?!? I must say that people take this blogging shit too seriously!
Sometimes I just wonder what the fuck is going on inside the tiny little fucking brains of some people…
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All you said is true… It is a fucking weird world, but I will not let him get to me. Thank you, CG.
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That is awful news. Whether you are on polls or not, I think you are one of the best photographers around, and your work inspires me to take more myself. I’m so glad you share your work here.
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I appreciate this Alex, I really do.
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he’s the one who should be out! he must have felt threatened by your talent. You’re much wiser and stronger than the guy.
you’ll have other wonderful opportunities to show your work, Paula, because your pictures are absolutely magnificent!
Ne regrette rien! tu fais un travail fabuleux!
bon courage pour la suite
Jul’
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Salut Jul’. Je ne regrette rien, c’est vrai. Je suis un peu boulversee a cause de la mauvaise experience, mais je serai bien bientot. Tous mes remerciments pour ton soutien.
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this is why i never take part in like this. people can be such children. you’re better off, paula. you don’t need that in your life. your blog should be a place of fun, not consternation.
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Sad to hear that Paula you are a strong Lady ,that is a veil a trifle.Be blessed jalal Michael
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Remember what I said yesterday- “What do you care, what other people think (say)?” 😉 cheer up! or else, I might have to start cracking my stock of PJs( that’s a threat, BTW)! 😀
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You have made me laugh 😆 Thank you Sayantan 🙂
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I don’t think this is what Otto had in mind at all in setting up these polls, and those nominated should just live with what the bloggers have voted on. So ridiculous that this has happened to you! There is an idiot in every crowd. Don’t let this bring you down, Paula!
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This is sad, Paula, but I understand what you mean by trying to avoid more stress. Blogging is supposed to bring along positive emotions and not rubbish like accusations, offending etc. Your photos are really exquisite – you deserve to be on the top of all of the photo blog polls, most definitely!
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I’m so sorry to hear about your bad experience Paula but am relieved to read you find comfort here in the positive and constructive interactions with your blogging friends. I always look forward to reading your new posts and admiring your photography!
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That’s very kind of you, Lisa. I tend to focus on what’s positive. Talk soon 🙂
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Dear Paula – I’m so sorry! That must have been hurtful and stressful too! I love your photos and I’m so sorry you are pulling yourself out…….:-(
Sending you a big warm hug and lots of love XXXX
Thinking of you!!
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🙂 thank you Anne
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Vaya Paula!
No tenía ni idea de que este tipo de cosas podían pasar…
Realmente hay gente rara que se escuda en el anonimato para molestar…
No te preocupes..Sabes lo que vales..Y nosotros también…
LikeLike
Querida Ilargia, Te agradezco mucho tus palabras. No era anonimo. Era un email de alguien que firmo, y no me importa irme (nadie me obligo) de la competicion, pero lo que me hizo dano y me aruino salud – (sufro de taquicardia y no necesito mas estress en mi vida) fue el mail lleno de insultos, acusaciones injustas. No dormia toda la noche y ayer casi me desmaye por agotamiento. Es tan injusto. A mi las competiciones, blog awards, estatisticas no me importan nada, pero mi paz si. Un abrazo, Paula
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Increíble! I wonder how those people behave in their real lives!
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You are kidding, this really happened? Unbelievable! As though life isn’t tough enough without creating petty blog dramas, wow! So sorry to know Paula that this took place but trust that you have walked away with your head held high and dignity intact!
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Yes, and it was (I was sad, not for dropping out, but it is ugly to be accused and attacked). I will be ok. Thank you so much Patti…
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I think you did the right thing, Paula. If it’s not fun, the it loses the purpose 🙂
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Yes, exactly. Thank you, Igor 🙂
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I am so sorry this happened to you Paula and yes, I totally agree with you. No one needs more stress in today’s life. Photography should be fun and not a competition. It’s in instances like this that I am so grateful that my photo’s are not good enough to be there with the professionals. 🙂
You hang in there hon and don’t mind this blogger. It’s all just envy. 😀 *hugs*
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Life sucks sometimes, Paula 🙂 I saw your well deserved nomination but not the follow up. Who needs it, and I’m sure Otto wouldn’t want this kind of thing going on either. I’m going back to Chris Rea. Do what you do so well and the hell with them, girl.
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🙂 I like Rea a lot :). I wish I could hear your accent and voice Jo :). Is there a chance you can record yourself and put it on your blog some day? (O sole mio comes to mind :O). Thank you for what you have said. You have no idea how much it means – coming from you. P.
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I’ll sing extra loud on my way to Nordic walking this morning. You’ll hear me! 🙂
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😆 Have fun!
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Verbally attacked you?? Terrible how some people can just not get over their insecurities! Take care, Paula.
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It happened, and I am still trying to recover from it. Thank you very much, Uday. I did not mean to announce it on my blog, but I owed an explanation to all the people that voted for me. Thank you for everything….
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Hi Paula, this is terrible to hear and I feel bad for you. In the end, you don’t need any validation from polls/votes etc. You have a fantastic blog filled with wonderful, creative and inspiring photos.
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Thank you for saying this Mark. It means a lot 🙂
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Wow! That’s awful Paula! I didn’t know about this. It really is a shame that something that should just be for light hearted fun would turn into something mean spirited. I’m sure you did no vote manipulation and wish this didn’t even happen.
Best,
Phil
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Thank you, Phil. I am glad you see it that way. 🙂
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That was awful. That blogger needs to be in blog prison. Ahihihi 😀 You deserve that top spot. You really really do!
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It doesn’t matter.
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