Hi Xyliacs!
Sorry I missed last week…but…. you know. Well, some of you do.
I know that there are people out there that don’t get why I even update this site at all if I’m not putting up comic pages, but it’s really just for that handful of you who really seem to care what’s going on, and not just: ‘Where is my comic! I want my comic now! My free comic, that I somehow feel entitled to!!’ Oops. Did I type that out loud?
Seriously though, there was another one of those comments posted on my last blog, and the thing that I found a bit frustrating is when people say, “I don’t read the blog, but why is there no comic here?” And sometimes not in such friendly ways. (Those comments I don’t approve because I don’t have to if I don’t want to. Nyeaah.)
In summation, to anyone out there who is going to ask this question again, here’s the deal- I’m a mom first and foremost- and as a single parent, I have to do that primarily on my own with no real support. Granted, my kids are getting pretty self sufficient, but I still spend a great deal of time with and for them. I run a household alone (if you don’t know what that means see taking care of home, paying bills, taking care of cars etc…etc..). I have my own freelance business which has become quite busy, and work a second job. My parents are older and I try to spend time with them as much as possible. I also work out regularly (ideally 5 times a week) to ward off fat but primarily to keep my BP down and keep my health and sanity. Additionally, I deal with occasional bouts of depression that makes everything I mentioned above go slower at best – or completely shut down at worst. Somewhere in all this, I do try to spend some time socializing with friends and dating too. Cause, well…uh I think I kind of deserve that.
Now. If you are coming here and asking “WHERE IS MY COMIC FIX? WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH THIS WOMAN?” please read through the above and locate out of that the EXTRA 16 hours that I will need to get just one page of the Xylia webcomic up on the site. I’ve looked for those hours, and I have been having trouble finding them.
THAT’S why Xylia has not been updating.
Sorry for that rant, Xyliacs, but I wanted to post a blog that I could refer these people to in the future to read so they can get their questions answered without me having to work for it, since THEY aren’t willing to work for figuring it out.
So, where was I? Oh yes. I hope all of you here stateside had a very nice Thanksgiving holiday. If you’re like me (and I really hope you aren’t 
holidays are a real challenging time. I forget that this is so sometimes, and then they sneak up and do a leg sweep and knock me on my butt. Which is what happened this year. The first half of my Thanksgiving day was an unpleasant one, but the last half was nice. Until I ate way too much and felt like the Goodyear blimp. But anyway. I know some of you are dealing with difficult times this year, and I hope that you were able to find some support and love.
Enough on that, how about Xylia? Well, my busy time has ramped up even further. So much so that I am not getting to the gym or seeing friends as much as I would like. As much as I WANT to work on Xylia, the back burner is where it stays for now until the holiday orders are done. It’s a matter of me finding a schedule for it, but I just haven’t figured that out. I am really anxious to tell the story- I think you will like it- I do. *frustrated…*
I’m sorry to keep everyone waiting so long, sometimes I wonder if I should just shut the site down so that people won’t wonder any more, and then bring it back when I finally can, but I hate to do that too. What are your thoughts, Xyliacs?
Thank you again for visiting the site, and again I apologize for the way things are, but most of it is out of my hands right now.
————–Response to November 14, 2011————–
Miamistax: 
your comments about the sketches made me smile- I think you need to go back and read chapter 1 of Xylia. Thank you for your kind words on the ‘chicken scratchy’ sketches of mine… and Happy Thanksgiving to you as well.
Meridian: “can I ask what’s happened to this comic? I haven’t been here for more than a year, because it just wasn’t getting anywhere.” My response to your inquiry is above. Since you ‘rarely read the blog’ it’s something you wouldn’t know, so I’m helping you out. (Course if you don’t read the blog… you won’t see this, so why did I bother? hmm….)
Nathaniel: Sounds like you are getting a good work out! I actually do several different types of exercise when I have the time, which I don’t right now. Alternating 4 mile jogs at 6.5 mph with sprinting interval days (going up to 10 mph. ) My knees can’t handle that all the time though, so sometimes I do elliptical training. When I’m not so flipping busy, my weight training is an hour long class 3x a week (ideally) with high reps. And I also try to get in a 15 minute pilates core workout- as often as possible. If I had LOTS of time, I would do yoga a couple times a week too. But right now it’s all about my art jobs though, and it’s very hard to get the exercise in. “…which will also make a healthier heart than running”. Running is more for my mind than anything, but I’m not too worried about heart health right now: my resting heart rate is 42 (I’m shooting for 35) , my bp is 118/65. I had a complete heart work up a couple years ago (before I was in this kind of shape) and was told I had the heart of a 20 year old. Not shabby for 46.
Francisco: I hope your new job is going well! And yes, that was Ambrosia in the pic.
Skewered Viewpoint: I do hope Thanksgiving was all right for you this year. I thought about you quite a bit. And yeah, the schedule is going pretty nuts.
Canterrain: thank you for your response to Meridian before I had time to blog. And thank you also for the nice words about the sketch of Charlie- you are pretty much spot on catching the gist of the image.
Joe: Yeah, sorry this is late! Bosslady had to be the boss of a lot of non Xylia stuff.. adnt heat will only continue…
Ayshara: Glad that your sister is doing well. Sorry I misread your other post.
Julie: I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well! I am hoping that we can work together on some more of your characters in the future! ^_^
Jamming: but you ARE great as fans.
Thanks all, I hope to post more regularly soon, but I can’t make promises in December. Is what it is.
Hugs, B
November 27th, 2011 at 8:07 pm
@Meridian: If you don’t know enough to wait, then STFU and go elsewere.
@barb: It’s alright, also on another note you can just use twitter/a blog service like insanejournal while hosting the pictures on Photobucket if it’s easier and/or cheaper for you. Then you can keep us updated while putting the domain on hiatus until you can resume working on it. Have you thought about writing it out and posting it on smashwords or other services once you have enough written? I’m sure people with e-readers would gladly pay a couple of dollars for it.
November 27th, 2011 at 9:55 pm
Seriously, I want to just set those Entitled People on fire. Even if you didn’t have an extremely busy/full life, you don’t owe any of us A THING. What you do here with every update (with comic or not) is above and beyond any of us should expect. What makes you so awesome is that you continue to do so even when you aren’t up to doing much of anything.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, just the fact that you respond to EACH and EVERY comment you get here is a unique and wonderful thing and something none of us should take for granted! I know I don’t! I always approach each update of yours by immediately scrolling down to see what you have said to me before I read anything else and after having my wee bit of Squee, I go on and read the rest. Just to give you an idea of the effect of what you do here has on me personally.
*extra huggles for you, you special person!!*
November 28th, 2011 at 12:34 am
Barb, I can understand completely where you’re coming from, having done the single parent thing myself. First things first, everything must be prioritized and the family absolutely must come first. That being said, Barb, I genuinely look forward to your blog so that I may be some kind of current on what’s going on in Barbland. Hey, there’s always that chance that an Xyliatales update may appear. Barb, just keep doing those things that you know in your heart you must do and, please, keep those of us who are dedicated Xyliacs posted. As much as we’ve enjoyed Xyliatales, many of us equally enjoy knowing you and will continue to be in your corner cheering you on. Peace & Love, little Sister!
November 28th, 2011 at 12:58 am
I know this isn’t really any kind of long term solution – and it probably will not make production any more fun. But perhaps instead of trying to knock back large chunks of the creation, you take an hour here, fifteen minutes there, just to keep the page moving forward? I would go crazy if I had to figure out how to get 16 hours to work a page through. You’re efforts are so brilliant though, so I think your time is well spent. I can totally understand about the time it takes, and how difficult it would be to figure it into your already PACKED schedule!
I’m really sorry to hear that there are those still insensitive to the requirements of real life and so selfish as to demand updates. I mean…it’s great to have an audience, but the real support comes from those who are willing to wait, to see whatever you have to offer (Up to and including your brilliant sketches.)
November 28th, 2011 at 1:38 am
You know what fans are? They blow hot air around…..so we are all great at blowing hot air, if we are great fans.
However, we certainly appreciate all the work you do for us. You are always keeping us entertained and all that amounts to something. No really its not a webcomic….its and illustrated true life story about a webcomic.
November 28th, 2011 at 8:16 am
Barb. I have been a fan since your Talisman days, and I will still be a fan in years to come when the tale of Xylia continues to get told. I like coming here and reading your blog, and seeing the cool sketch (or snippet of page) that you put up with it. But if it’s easier for you to have a Livejournal/other free blog, then I will continue to follow you over there as well.
If people actually read the blog… any one of them, they would realise that life is busy! and not always easy! And you are amazing at just keeping it all together… and then even thinking of us fans enough to post about what’s going on. As a follower, I really appreciate it. Like Jamming said above, what you are currently creating is an illustrated true life story, about a web comic.
(Ps, no Thanksgiving here in Australia, but the weather is getting warmer and drier… and that is something to be happy about!)
November 28th, 2011 at 9:14 am
So… There are comments on the blog, saying something like: “You know that stuff you write, about what’s going on in your life and how work on the story is going? I don’t want to read that, I just want to know where all my free stuff is! Why haven’t you told us where all our free stuff is?”
To wich the only real reply is: “All that is in the blog, if you read like even one of them, you’ll know all that.”
And the response to that would presumably be: “Yeah, but I don’t want to read all that, I just want to know!”
Is that a koan or something?
Wait, I’ve got it!
And then YOU say: “I’m sorry, we haven’t yet figured out a way to transfer information directly from brain to brain without going through a medium, such as speech or writing. Standby for that.”
And then they go away.
November 28th, 2011 at 2:08 pm
I usually read web comics on my iPhone, but this new image is so delightfully detailed, I’m going to look again on my bigger pc screen. You’re not kidding about how long it takes. I loved your snarl at “Entitled People” (good one, Harena). Especially apt considering this new picture you were working on was obviously not something you whipped out in a few minutes. EP had blathered after my first read, and by the time i came back to look at the page again, EP had already been handily retorted to. I considered piling on, but thought its just some whiny kid. Then you came in exercising Creator’s Rights and whomped him/her. I loved it. To your remark about going away until the strip is done, I’ll restate my opinion that I love seeing your “work in progress” sketches, and I well know that just jumping at a story without first developing background artwork results in a less than ideal product. My vote is please keep doing what you’re doing here, at whatever schedule you feel comfortable with. Don’t let EPs push you away. This place is nice and homey. Sure, sometimes an a—–e will creep in, and we’ll smack ‘im with a rolled-up newspaper to the nose. Meanwhile, I’ll go back and re-read Chapter 1.
November 28th, 2011 at 5:07 pm
By all means, KEEP THIS SITE UP AND RUNNING!!
I know I’m not the only Xyliac who feels this way (though I haven’t taken the time to read the other comments this time around), but I truly enjoy hearing about how your life is going and what ideas (or lack of them) are popping up on the Xylia side of your brain. Yes, I’ll admit that every time I come back to the site and it hasn’t updated at all…or the news is that Xylia’s been postponed for another indefinite stretch of time…it’s a tad frustrating, but I certainly understand why (especially since you usually explain the reasons). I’d much rather hear that things are going so well (or so poorly…though I don’t like hearing that) that you don’t have time for this comic than be left wondering if I should remove Xylia from my comic favorites or general radar of awareness.
Besides, the little teaser sketches you’ve been giving us are wonderful and help feed the yearning for my comic fix.
Also, at the risk of sounding slightly odd, I feel like you’re a friend that I enjoy checking on and getting life updates. True, we’ve never met, and it’s not likely we ever will. Also it’s true that we’re not close buds (our only interactions are via comments and the occasional email), but you still fall into the category of people whose well-being is important to me. This is also likely something I share with some of your Xyliacs given the way this community seems to work and interact.
So, yes…you should keep this website running…even if you never update Xylia again. We all want to hear from you and get little glimpses into the random pieces you create when inspired.
November 28th, 2011 at 5:54 pm
just a suggestion and i hope i dont get flamed for it (xyliacs are really passionate about the comic and creator), but i think possibly it best to put this site on hiatus and open up a seperate blog while still uploading your sketches and rough ideas. believe it or not there are a few (ie. me) who don’t expect to come by and see a comic, but still come back and hope to be surprised by an actual comic….and it’s not there. i know how busy you are, i’ve read your blog posts up until now but i’d rather have bloggings have their place and this is a comic site.
correct me if i’m wrong. at the same time, do what you want.
you’re amazing to put yourself first, be with kids, work, socialization, etc and give us updates here and there. i’m not knocking you for that. but to save yourself from grief and annoying comments, i think these things should be seperate from xylia. it’s been two years now. until then, i will keep doing the occassional check up. just my two cents.
take care of yourself.
November 28th, 2011 at 11:08 pm
Barb, I am happy to see sketches or read your blog when you have them for us and when you don’t, I patiently sit on my hands and check back in a couple of days. I don’t know everything that you’re going through, but knowing that you have so much on your plate and yet you still get on here and deal with your whiney fans is amazing to me sometimes. You’re doing a good job and don’t let anyone tell you differently. ^_^ I’ll be patiently waiting and enjoy what you are able to share. Have a happy holidays and try not to stress too much.
Missladybug
November 29th, 2011 at 2:28 am
I used to read the comic regularly, but then got too busy to read more than a couple web-comics around the time you got too busy to produce your comic. I wanted to let you know how inspirational it has been for me to look over your ‘extras’ posted while on hiatus and occasionally browse a blog post or two. I don’t have time to read in-depth (sorry!), but it’s enough to remind me that the stage I’m at – li’l ones – doesn’t last forever, and that life has its busy periods and its quiet periods.
I’m expecting my fourth li’l one, our first boy. Our eldest, twins, are 5 1/2, and our littlest is almost 2. I work full-time, although I’m blessed with a husband who was able and willing to “give up” his career to be a stay-at-home dad (quotes are because I don’t think he felt it was much of a sacrifice!). And, of course, this is all surrounded by the rest of “life”, in all its grandness and hard work. I used to dream about becoming an author, writing science fiction or fantasy, and sometimes it can feel like I’ll never have time for creative pursuits again, for the rest of my life. The fact that you managed to find 16 hours per page for all those pages while being a single mother to two (if I’m following correctly) . . . someday I, too, shall find the time.
I do hope things calm down again for you someday, because I’m very eager to get to know Xylia more – but I’d much rather see you enjoy your busy life now and return when you can enjoy a calmer time, if it ever comes. In the meantime, I’ll hope I get a quiet time to start that novel sometime in the next decade or two, and remember your example even if I can’t finish it before things get busy again; and, I hope you are finding a little time to reflect on all the amazing things you are doing right now.
November 29th, 2011 at 7:22 pm
That is what the RSS feed is for. I don’t visit until I get a bing in my inbox to say Barb’s back! I don’t mind waiting. Patience is a virtue!
Being busy with my little one (3 months old this week!) that is how I manage my Web comic time. Love hearing about what is happening in your life when you have the time. Believe me, when I see a post, I treat it like the gift that it is rather than b!tch about it not being regularly updated. Seriously. Free comic viewing is a privilege not a right.
I vote keep the site running and post as a stress relief if you have the time. Your site, your rules!
Best wishes for the holidays.
November 30th, 2011 at 3:25 am
I also vote to keep the site up and running. But only if it’s not a strain to you. I’m always happy to read one of your posts, and look forward to Xylia’s return. But it can wait.
Now, to be completely honest, when the comic first went away, I waited for another comic to show up. When it didn’t, I filed it in my “Dead Comics” folder, which I check less often than the comics that do update regularly. This didn’t mean I felt entitled to the comic. I know things can get rough. If the comic stops, for a short hiatus, or forever, I will miss the comic. I will long for it. If I can, I’ll contribute money to further the existance. But I respect the time you have given.
I read webcomics at work when things get slow, and only at one particular site that I work at for two weeks at a time. Which is why I didn’t post immediately when a new Blog post appeared on the 5th.
But, and I know I’m completely alone in this obviously, just because someone asks what’s going on, does not mean they necessarily feel entitled to your comic. Yes, I feel it’s wrong and a little rude of him to not read the Blog at least a little to find out what’s wrong. That is what the Blog is for.
I know when I first came here….. Back here….. I was a little intimidated. Some of your regulars act almost as Entitled as they accuse Meridian. Oh, they’re not asking when the next comic is coming. They know the score. But to jump on Meridian, and accuse him of being an Entitled Person, to “Seriously, I want to just set those Entitled People on fire.” is wrong! And annoys me to no end.
This is your place, Barb. And I love and respect you. I hope that you know this. But not everyone wishes to read a Blog. They just want a simple answer. And Canterrain’s reply was perfect.
This is my opinion. I hope that I don’t get run out because of it.
November 30th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
I have followed xylia since the first few pages. I love the comic, both the beautiful and expressive art and the interesting and unique story line. I actually follow about a hundred online comics, and xylia, though it hasn’t updated in a while, is still the fifth link on the list that I check nearly daily. I don’t always read the blog, because usually I can only spare a few minutes to reading comics before getting back to ‘work’ writing, illustrating, and administrating for the various freelance and self-employed jobs I fill. I can say without any hesitation that I think it is brave and thoughtful for you to take the time to reach out to your fans on a regular basis. I can’t seem to keep a regular blog going with my schedule, and I envy your persistence.
Though I am sad that the comic hasn’t updated, I am very glad to hear that you’re eager about your story again. Sooner or later that fire will get the best of you, to everyone’s delight. But until then, I am happy to see the awesome sketches and occasionally read about the artists and author behind the comic I love.
also, you should know, most of the comics I read update once a month and often less. Once a week is very very ambitious and most artists who attempt this often go on frequent and long ‘hiatus’. White Noise has a regular habit of going on hiatus for several months at a time, and Rosa has been on a long stall due to writer’s block. Don’t think that you’re the only fish in the sea with scheduling and muse issues, you are in the company of other great artists and authors with similar difficulties. I still check religiously, because that’s what a devoted fan does.
It is your life and it is your comic, we’re just along for the ride. Thank you for your updates and sketches.
November 30th, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Sorry to have been lurking for so long, new life at college is crazy, lol who knew there was so much art in architecture (heavy sarcasm).
This is a great place you have created here with a whole family of caring people, the odd ass is bound to show up. This is the internet after all. But I’m always happy to read your blogs, although sometimes I have to read them bit by bit because of time. I would hope the site would stay up, just because it is such a lovely place. I don’t think most of us come here expecting you to work yourself ragged to post something. We trust you to take your time and create something beautiful like you always have. So when there is a sketch or a page it is a delightful gift.
You are a gracious hostess and whatever decision you end up making I will trust you in it, although it is always wonderful to check in here every once in awhile. So from me to you, and really every Xyliac here, hugs and love.
A side note, I really have missed talking here, it really is like a big family, and I feel like I’m joining back again after being gone for awhile
December 1st, 2011 at 12:33 am
No worries Barb, take as long as you need. From the bits and pieces you have posted I can tell that when you do start posting the comic again it is going to be phenominal!
December 1st, 2011 at 5:30 am
I’ve long said “real life comes first” Barb. And I’ll wait.
Hell, I wait for Megatokyo. Now that’s patience.
December 2nd, 2011 at 3:14 pm
*stumbles in late to the party* Oh, sorry. I got lost in Thanksgivingland and then took a detour into Skyrim and couldn’t find my way back until now.
As for the shutting down or not of the site, it’s really up to you. We’ll be around either way, waiting and hoping as usual. If it were me, and this is just me, I’d keep it up and running (because I needs me my Bosslady fix every once in a while. I’m entitled, I think) just so we fans know what’s going on and so that you have yet another outlet for stress (can one really ever have too many outlets?). But that’s just me.
December 2nd, 2011 at 3:17 pm
hey as a first time reader I want to say great job! Though I have to ask, what made you think of using a Corgi as a character? I do have 2 corgies and I love the fact that you used a corgi as a character but I was wondering as to your thoughts and reasoning!
December 3rd, 2011 at 5:58 am
Barb, i want you to know that i love Xylia tales, and such as that is, i will continue to hope and wait for an update until you are ready, and have time some how. I think good things, things that you care about, are worth waiting for, and that i’d be happy to wait as long as it takes.
I also wanted to let you know that i love the art and what not that you post from time to time; what you make is so wonderful, and it’s really nice to still get little tastes that you take time out of your day to make for us; so i say, please do not put the site on haitus!
please! please!
I’ve never been moved to post from reading your blog before, i’ve always read it and found it interesting and thought that it’s nice that you take the time to keep us informed and part of everything, but now i thought i should let you know how much i appreciate it all.
Thank you
December 4th, 2011 at 10:46 pm
Hi Barb … Just coming out of lurking mode long enough to let you know that those fans who truly appreciate what you do and enjoy your professionalism and body of work would never make such comments. We understand what it’s like to balance a busy schedule, budget and most importantly family. Believe me, there are lots of things I would love to be working on that my own commitments don’t allow for.
Whenever it is you decide to retire the hiatus and revive Xylia’s story we’ll all celebrate with you and enjoy what you’ve produced tremendously I’m sure. But until then, we’re all still all for you!
Best,
Matt
December 4th, 2011 at 10:49 pm
Bye the way … just another thought. You’ve heard the term, “Vocal minority” right? That’s what these people are … the minority … and if they don’t get their way they get vocal and bent out of shape (see, Internet Troll). Don’t let them get you down.
December 5th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
Also, because I forgot to mention it, awesome art. I’m highly intrigued to see what it is that lies behind the foliage in all it’s glory.
December 5th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Hi, Barb — I check in here often, but don’t generally post. I just wanted to say that I’m so grateful for the time we’ve already had with Xylia, and I’m looking forward to more whenever you’re in a place in your life to bring her back to us
I hope things settle down in your life (it feels a little weird to worry about someone I’ve never met, but still — um, I worry about you? If that’s not creepy?), and try not to worry about the jerks. They’re always around, but they’re few and far between in your *actual* readership — you attract a really lovely kind of person, in general, and I think you should take that a high compliment 
Take care of yourself, and don’t worry — your Xyliacs will always be here for you!
December 5th, 2011 at 6:17 pm
Job’s going well but I had to take today off sick (cold combined with sinus pain).
Generally, it’s been hectic here.
I’m glad things are going well for you.
December 5th, 2011 at 6:18 pm
Job’s going well but I had to take today off sick (cold combined with sinus pain).
Generally, it’s been hectic here.
I’m glad things are going well for you.
Blast! I got my e-mail address wrong.
December 5th, 2011 at 10:56 pm
My purpose here is shared with many others. You are a creator — drawing, living, loving, crying, feeling however you are moved — at times through your drawing and story. I, and I hope most others, are not here to demand anything of you, or advise you of how to create more efficiently. I am, we are, here only to share in appreciating your creation, so that when you whisper from that point that needs to create, you will know that many will see, and some will think, and perhaps a few may understand.
Thank you.
December 7th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
@Lex-Kat: If I made you feel that way, I’m sorry, but I’m sure everyone can agree with me that patience is needed; Barb’s viewpoint on this is one I totally agree with, and I will stand by it 100%. It’s the trolls who don’t know when to shut up that annoy me.
December 12th, 2011 at 3:16 pm
Hi Barb,
Don’t have much time, but sending you love and letting you know i’m still here. <3 Do what makes you happy!
December 14th, 2011 at 6:50 am
Hey Barb. ^___^ Was worried about you—two months is a long time for this place. o.o;
But anyway, all the same…this is more than most people get from a semi-canceled/hiatus webcomic. You’ve shown that you honesty care about the people that connected with you and that you wish to see what exists in your mind see the light of day.
You have remembered us and given us voyeuristic glances into your complicated life. I’ll stand for your honor, always. ^^
December 14th, 2011 at 3:43 pm
This is new for me. 2 comments in one day! Anyhow, have a great holiday season! When you read this and my previous comment for moderation, smile! You do not have to let this one post. It was just for you to know I meant what I said. I read to current and will wait patiently for your next page. Get to it when you can and in the meantime, smile, give and get hugs and good luck with the dating scene!
*note: Hugs go both ways. Giving them is just as helpful as getting them lol
December 14th, 2011 at 9:42 pm
Hi! I’m not exactly a Xyliac but I love coming by every now and then to catch up on what I’ve missed (usually 2 chapters worth). I’m not sure how much sifting through of your blog entries I’d have to do to find this out, but have you considered publishing Xylia? (Would be a perfect question for an FAQ page
Not that I’m trying to give you more work, but if you find yourself answering the same questions, it may be worth while in the long run)
As far as breaks and your dedication to your fans goes… I would take a -mandatory- couple of months off every year. No one expects you to dedicate every waking moment of your time to something you offer for free. Take care of yourself before you take care of your readers. <3 One comic that I love, Wormworld Saga only publishes a chapter a year. It still does well because the quality is outstanding. The quality of Xylia is also wonderful, which is why you deserve your breaks. Take them, enjoy them and let the haters hate.
December 15th, 2011 at 6:51 am
Why don’t you put up a note saying that the comic is on hiatus? (And in the meantime, there’s a blog…) I’m certain it would reduce the frequency of comments demanding updates
Here are a few other comics that have done so:
http://ourtimeineden.smackjeeves.com/comics/ – http://bymoonalone.com/ – http://geekblather.com/
December 16th, 2011 at 8:27 am
I have been reading Xylia for a long time, but never posted. I just wanted you to know that I appreciate your blog posts. It is better to know what you are going through and that you still care about your comic then to just let it be blown away by the wind. Life is more important, and although I really hope I get to see this to the end one day, I would understand if I didn’t.
You are amazing, not only because you are a single mother, but because you are a wonderful story teller and artist. I hope you really take that to heart. Good luck and happy holidays!
December 18th, 2011 at 5:56 am
On one hand, I think only you can decide whether or not to keep the site running as it is, or shut it down until you can find the time you want to devote to it. On the other hand, I still come back and visit as much to read the blog posts/look at pretty sketches and concept art as I do to see if there’s a comic update. I’m a terrible lurker, and I haven’t even stopped by in a while because of my own life challenges, but I’d miss your updates (even just blog posts!) if they were gone.
December 20th, 2011 at 7:52 am
Barb- I found you first through Talisman, and then found you here. What I appreciate is that you give updates. While I (and obviously many others) would rather have the comic updates, you post about where you are with things and your plans and how you are trying to get back to the comic (and if I remember right, some new sketches as well have appeared?). At least we have an idea you are still here. Some comics just don’t ever update again. I’d rather someone post and say “I’m ending my comic/can’t continue my comic because of…..” than to not say anything at all. So thank you for the updates!
December 21st, 2011 at 2:24 am
Hey, I too am a mom. Just because I do temporary work I still work in and out of the house, so I understand. There are more things to deal with on an every day that sometimes, we (mom) don’t get to do what we really want to do. So, be good to your childern, they will understand in time, stay with your loving parents and do what you can for yourself. I’ll keep checking back to see if you have had time for I do love how you draw.
December 22nd, 2011 at 11:07 am
I admit when I first came here it was for the comic… AGES ago. But then I found out that the author actually talked to her fans. And granted you could probably count on both hands the times we chatted I always try and chek in to see how you are doing. Dark times of the best of times I always want to know that you are still alive and kicking. So what if the comic pauses or stops? In the end it wasn’t the comic that became important but the person. You do work, you work out (oh great scott i should do that, I’m so out of shape I could play Santa x.x) You’ve kids, a life and many many things on your plate and you -still- manage to say hey now and then. Frankly I’m impressed. Just continue to strive on and sure… Some folks won’t get it. But many of us do. Keep rocking on and thanks for all the great times, blogs, and memories Barb. Oh and the Stories too. No matter what you choose I enjoy them.
PS, I swear one of these days (A threat I make to many people) I’ll make sure you get some good old stick to your waistline Missouri cooking.
The kind that has doctors scream in fright. 
December 24th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
Happy Put-A-Tree-In-Your-House-Day-Eve, bosslady and Xyliacs. Hope your chosen holiday (or in the case of no holiday, your weekend) is super awesome and you eat entirely too much and nap it all away in a food coma. Also, presents. Yay!
December 27th, 2011 at 6:32 am
Hope everyone had a nice Christmas and continuing Chanukah, to each their own. This year they overlap, so if you have family who celebrate both, it’s twice the fun. I like the row of smiling Barbs!
December 31st, 2011 at 2:54 am
Well, Happy New Year Xyliacs. *Hugs for Ayshara*
December 31st, 2011 at 11:31 am
Happy New Year, everyone!
January 2nd, 2012 at 3:57 pm
@Lex-Kat *hugs back* I was out at the local casino here in town on New Years Eve, had a few drinks, came home with over $500 after taking $65…
January 3rd, 2012 at 8:30 am
Happy New Year! At least, I am sincerely hoping it was a Happy one for you! Also hope you had a lovely family, friends, and fun-filled Christmas, and tht your future is looking bright even as I type. Take care of yourself, I *DO* hope you can come out and visit us once in a while, but totally understand that – hey- Real Life comes first. *Hugs* and catch you later!
January 6th, 2012 at 2:46 pm
I hope your Christmas and New Year have been blessed, lady. My Christmas went well, but my new year has started with upper respiratory infections and a flat tire on a work day…it can only get better, right?
I predict (and I think I’m more on point with this prediction than I’ve been with my others) that you will get an email from me within one week. (How’s that for setting a goal for myself?
)
January 13th, 2012 at 1:41 am
Hey there~
I’ve been following Xylia for… heck.. I don’t even know how long anymore, and I’ve also been keeping up with your blogs. After reading each new update from you I’ve always thought “I’m sure she’ll be fine.” Now, that doesn’t come from indifference, but from seeing how you’ve seemed ‘better’ with every post. Even with this most recent one the picture you put up shows how happy and vibrant you look. I know that’s probably not how you are all the time, but it’s one of the pictures I’ve seen you happiest.
Keep on truckin’, and always hold onto that light.
Blessings,
Maru
January 15th, 2012 at 3:38 am
first your comic is one of the best i’ve read i was hocked at page two ,two i may not know what being a single mom is like first hand thank god, but my mom was she had me my sister, brother and low income but so i can get were your comeing from it’s hard and that’s just the have of it yea, any ways to all the wankers out there being pissey about the comic, to hell with’em . as for the depression thing i used to have it still do at times. that’s a hard thing to fight but it’s about will you know that you don’t want to be depressed you have to will your self out of it any way you can i used hate and rage to do it but not at loved one or any thing but the depression it’s self as in to hell with be sad and i tryed to make more jokes about all thing in life and try new thing ech day and have a plan to just do better and better ech day it’ helped me and i still do this today i don’t know if this will help but i hope and that this paper as a hole makes you feel just a little bit better even if just for a bit. i hope in time you can up date you comic and single mom’s rock go mom power whooo
January 15th, 2012 at 4:04 am
Dear Barb: You are wonderful. Teh end.
January 18th, 2012 at 4:51 pm
I just wanted to say “Thank you”. Thank you for the wonderful art and story that is Xylia. I cannot wait until you are able to update it again, but I understand about life getting in the way
January 22nd, 2012 at 10:16 pm
Hi. I think your art is awesome, by the way. But it’s just not right to have your comic advertsed on many websites when it’s not updating, hasn’t for a long time, and may never happen again. At least a banner at the top of the page would be helpful, and may deter people from questioning you.
January 26th, 2012 at 4:22 am
@ Ayshara
Casino? I went to Reno for my birthday. I spent $50 at the slots and won $200. Too bad I didn’t cash it in. :\
January 30th, 2012 at 12:48 am
@Lex-Kat We have a casino here in town that I go to every now and then.
February 3rd, 2012 at 6:56 pm
Well, Bosslady and Xyliacs, I figured I’d share the good news. I’m getting married tomorrow. Wish yall could be there. I’ll be sure to have extra fun for everybody who can’t make it. Back in a few days.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:01 am
@Joe: Best wishes! To a long and prosperous happily ever after.
February 9th, 2012 at 3:44 am
Hello,
I just discovered your amazing Xylia! Wow! Thank you so much for the time you have put in on this wonderful artwork and story!
February 19th, 2012 at 6:53 pm
Congratulations, Joe!
February 20th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
Congratulations Joe, I wish you the best life can offer.
March 1st, 2012 at 11:17 am
Barb, I’ve been a long-time reader, but scarcely ever a commenter. It’s early in the morning for me, so if this has been mentioned in the past and I don’t recall, please forgive me, but have you ever considered partnering with another artist who can produce a similar style? You could do the basic storyboarding and hand it off to him/her to flesh out a page, and then take it back to add the final touches. Of course, you’d probably want to find someone willing to volunteer for the task in exchange for credit as an artist on the project, but it might be a viable alternative that can work into your schedule. Giving someone who is happy to do it as a hobby/personal project a chance to participate in a comic they probably already enjoy might make for a great collaborative experience for you both as well.
March 12th, 2012 at 5:04 am
I miss your updates.
March 12th, 2012 at 3:04 pm
DINNER FOR BARB! For all you good Xyliacs who read all the way to the bottom like me to see if there’s any new posts, here’s the plan. This Friday, March 16, everyone click on Barb’s Donate button and give whatever you can to Barb and tag the donation “Dinner on the Xyliacs.” Y’all post your concurrence between now and then, because if I’m the only one doing this, I can barely afford McDonalds for her family. Everyone step up for our goddess now. Thanks.
March 12th, 2012 at 5:37 pm
Fantastic idea Miamistax!
I’m in!
March 13th, 2012 at 11:46 pm
Hello. I’m not sure if this has been brought up to you, but other sites are still linking to your comic. I know that this is probably on purpose, but it might be giving you an inflow of ‘entitled’ people. I was actually a little confused when I saw the ads. I thought you’d started the comic back up again
March 14th, 2012 at 4:18 am
Awesome idea, Miamistax. I’m with ya in spirit, but my fine wife is without a job, so cashy money is tight. I’ll catch it next time, though.
March 14th, 2012 at 2:12 pm
Ooo…that’s a possibility nsanelilmunky… I hadn’t thought about that. Then again, I also haven’t seen many Xylia site ads.
March 22nd, 2012 at 8:11 pm
I’ve had a link up to your site for quite a while and it will likely stay there until (heaven forbid) I take my site down. Thought I’d swing by, since it seems to have been two years since I checked for updates. Didn’t know you’d gone on hiatus, much less all the other stuff life was throwing at you. Extra kudos for putting your family first, too many prefer to neglect what’s important for something that isn’t in comparison. Best of luck to ya!
April 5th, 2012 at 1:40 pm
Noticed you haven’t updated your blog in a while, I hope you are doing okay :\
April 29th, 2012 at 2:25 pm
I can’t tell you how I came by this comic, other than it was advertised on some other comic I found through another comic in much the same manner. But I can tell you that I read through it (although not much of the blogs or comments until today) in two or three days. It was like a really awesome book I just could not put down, until I got to the end, and then, only because the author (and in your case illustrator, if that is the correct term for such wonderful artwork) has such a way with spinning a story, hungers to know more. And well could see why others demand more, as though they are entitled. Myself, I merely contented myself with going back and reading what all else was written, to truly get to know the story behind the story, and I still want more to come, but will not demand it as though it were owed to me simply for stumbling across your wonderful art. I realize this has not been updated in some time, and for that I am sorry, but I truly wish you the absolute best, and wanted to say in my ever round-about way, that you have given everyone who reads even a bit of your story a great gift, and those with imagination will be able to keep that gift alive in their own minds, wondering what more is to come, if ever. And for that, I thank you
May 3rd, 2012 at 1:19 pm
I love this! I found it by going to Google and typing in my name: Xylia. The very first listing was, Xylia: A Faerie Tale by B.L. Jacobs Updates Wednesdays. It’s so freaking cool to have an entire comic story with MY NAME! –not even kidding people, Xylia IS my name.–
May 14th, 2012 at 2:12 pm
Are you still there??? WE MISS YOU!
May 15th, 2012 at 7:37 pm
http://www.goblinscomic.com/fourteen-ways-to-spot-a-bad-critic/
May 27th, 2012 at 10:16 am
I read every comic in one day, then glanced at all of the recent updates, wondering about the haitus. Once I got to the most recent, I read the blog to see what was going on. I’m glad you’re continuing the site, even though you haven’t had the time to work on the comic. I enjoyed how much of the comic was there. And I hope you continue to work on it when you find the time.
Good luck with everything, and thank you for the story.
May 30th, 2012 at 1:06 pm
Getting pretty worried about you, Barb. Haven’t heard from you in months and just hoping you’re okay.
June 10th, 2012 at 2:34 pm
Just Read though the comic this morning, though didn’t know of the blog posts, till the last of the pages, but great web comic so far, and perhaps you’ll get some time to post some new drawings. Man I wish life was as easy as it was portrayed in movies, books, web comics, but real life, everybody seams to want to complicate it. Got my own business too, in auto repair, lucky I’m still young and my dad and grandma can help with the finances, and a place to live while I work on way to make money, well mostly bring in customers.
June 18th, 2012 at 1:08 pm
*agrees with @Creed*
June 20th, 2012 at 10:30 pm
Know You O Webgoddess that we Xyliacs still love you! I am also worrying about you. Mayhap you could add your own reply to this page if you don’t feel like making a new page, just to reassure us that you, our friend, are hanging in there. Miss you.
June 24th, 2012 at 6:19 pm
Agreed like a speed steed in need. Or something. We miss ya, bosslady.
July 3rd, 2012 at 8:45 pm
I hope you are doing well. *Hugs*
July 8th, 2012 at 11:17 am
I, for one, will not complain about you taking time for your life. I just read to this point. I know how life can be demanding. I’ve been unemployed for 7 months, with off-and-on work for 2 years before that. Surviving has been tough. So, I’m willing to wait. Take your time. This is good enough to wait for. I’m following your RSS feed. It will let me know when you’re updating again. LIFE HAPPENS. Roll with it. I’ll be here.
July 9th, 2012 at 10:50 pm
Hi, Miz Barb. It’s okay about the comic; I totally understand. I’m not a mom yet, nor a household-care-taker, but I am a full-time grad student with a scientific thesis going and… craziness. You’re busier than I am, which really kind of awes me. I really like the comic and am looking forward to seeing where it ends up someday, but your blog posts are great as well. You’re a delightful lady. Thanks for keeping your fans up to date.
July 19th, 2012 at 4:34 am
Hiya Barb…dropping by to see how you are. Hope all is well with the family and your freelance work! Take care of yourself and if you get a moment I’d love to hear what you’re up to lately!
Take care chica!
July 21st, 2012 at 5:51 pm
Hiya, Barb. Hoping all is well, with you, and this is just “real life” being a bit on the busy side. Much as I’d love to see more of the story, it’s mostly your happiness that concerns me, as with so many others. I love the way you draw, and the way you express yourself, and it really doesn’t matter if it’s a quick sketch, a comic or a blog update, it just feels good to know you’re out there, and hopefully doing OK. Can’t “splain” why that is, for someone I’ve never met in RL, maybe it’s because a person’s art is such a window into how they “tick”; but I do know I want to give you whatever encouragement I can, so consider this a “virtual bear hug”.
July 24th, 2012 at 6:10 pm
Might be another way to generate the income. As a (formerly single) parent, I can empathize about keeping everything together. Perhaps a Kickstarter project is in order..?
Just sayin’.
Blessings to you.
Maps
August 11th, 2012 at 2:58 am
Dropping by to see how things are, I hope everything’s ok. You aren’t the only one who’s gone ‘missing’ I’m sorry to say…
August 13th, 2012 at 1:05 pm
Still checking in. How goes it, Bosslady? We miss ya.
August 15th, 2012 at 3:54 pm
I saw the Tychia picture you posted on Facebook…you should share it here too!
September 5th, 2012 at 7:48 pm
I can only say one thing on this blog of you…
You are…
AWESOME!
i got to admit that I sometimes when there’s no page I think: GRMBl…
but then I think to what you’re going through and that you still find the courage to write these blogs!
and that’s just awesome!
your comic is fantastic and i love the story and art!
but… your health and life is always more important than a fanbase!
i will patiently wait for the comics grand return, but till then i’ll wait!
September 24th, 2012 at 4:09 am
Aww. Guess I posted too soon. Please don’t think I was nagging. That was meant to be a pep talk. lol
I’d still like to exchange comments, if you like. And I’ll pray for you.
September 27th, 2012 at 11:05 am
Barb’s back on Twitter. ^_^ *has already sent a wb message*
October 26th, 2012 at 1:50 pm
Beep beep boop boop. Robot Joe, checking in.
October 29th, 2012 at 5:12 pm
Hope you and the kids have a very Happy Halloween! And also that you’re nowhere near Frankenstorm. And that goes for the rest of you. If anyone is near that beast, and I’m not joking, flee for your lives!
November 19th, 2012 at 5:33 am
I’ve been away from my computer for a bit, and I was going through my RSS feed list, looking to see what I’ve missed in general. When I looked at this site’s feed, I thought it was an error, that there was no way that it’s been a year since there has been a post, that there was an issue with the dates. But there wasn’t one. It’s been twenty months since there’s been a comic update, but it doesn’t feel like that long a time.
I understand as to why there has not been an updates, you must come first. All I want to say is that I’m saddened by not being able to read your stories and see your artwork here, and that I look forward to the day where this site will update once again with them. I will keep the RSS feed in a special folder, and look forward to seeing a notice that you are well and are able to once again work on the comic.
Though I don’t know if anyone will even see this, writing this helps me, since I am going through a difficult time right now, and I recall how the escape you provided to me in years past helped me feel better.
November 19th, 2012 at 12:08 pm
We see you, Orion. And I know that feeling. I tend to write everything (especially my stresses) down, if only to get it out of my head so that I’m not locked up with it all the time.
November 20th, 2012 at 2:22 pm
I’m sending positive thoughts and prayers your way Orion!
November 21st, 2012 at 2:42 am
Thank you very much, Joe and Julie, they are appreciated.
November 30th, 2012 at 6:12 pm
Everybody survive the holiday okay? Nobody died a turkey related death? ‘Kay good.
December 3rd, 2012 at 7:09 am
Okay, here I go again. Figured I’d announce this somewhat early enough, so we can all save up a little. Time once again to contribute toward dinner for Barb, and what better time than Christmas Eve to spread some cheer? So, ya’ll click on her Donate box on Dec 24 morning or the night before, and toss in some cash. Doesn’t have to be anyone’s life savings. Maybe a bunch of Donate blips all pinging at once will be a nice little gesture to our favorite Webgoddess. We loves ya Barb!
December 3rd, 2012 at 2:08 pm
Seconded! Count me in.
December 14th, 2012 at 1:28 am
Agreed! If I have something to give then I certainly will.
December 26th, 2012 at 6:22 pm
Merry Christmas a day late, you Xyliacs. And to the Bosslady, wherever she might be.
January 21st, 2013 at 4:34 am
It’s been ages since I visited this site – not since I was in the army back in 2010, I believe, but I thought I’d pass by and say that I’m still a great fan of your artwork, and I hope life is treating you well. A much belated Happy New year, and may it only bring you good things.
January 29th, 2013 at 10:37 pm
hello bar and all the xyliacs
i was just passing by to see if there was a new blog, and thought i would say hi ^_^ i hope everything is well for you all, especially bar! x
March 18th, 2013 at 4:40 pm
Happy belated St Patty’s Day y’all.
April 25th, 2013 at 3:20 pm
Happy…um, Thursday, yall! Hope it’s awesome for everybody, Bosslady included.