Patreon: One Year In Progress Report (Patreon)

Hard to believe it's been a year since I started doing this. Just like I did back in April, I'd like to give a status update alongside talking about a few things coming up this month. To give a semblance of order, I'll be using the various Patreon tiers as an outline for some thoughts I have.

Tier 1 Cyclops ($1): Polls

In regards to the polls open to this tier and above, interaction has been steadily rising to ensure I get a good glimpse at what my Patrons want. That being said, there are still several Patrons that abstain from voting. Considering how eccentric some of the topics can get, I can understand why some of them wouldn't vote. Just be aware that this is the major way I gauge interest in future story ideas, so make sure you let your voice be heard.

Tier 2 Visionary ($3): Story Previews

I'll admit that while Patreon has given me plenty of opportunities to write, various life things have made it hard to put out said stories on a regular basis. I'll get into a bit more detail about a possible remedy in a bit.

Tier 3 Enlightened ($5): Prompt Requests

Writing prompt requests have been going along quite smoothly, with volume 5 getting close to being filled up. That being said, I would like to take this opportunity to remind people these are WEEKLY prompts, meaning you can submit one per week starting every Sunday. I've had quite a few people mislead to only sending in one per month. Make sure you get your money's worth.

You can find the appropriate post to submit prompt requests for this month here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/56868092

Tier 4 Scholar ($10): Story Suggestions

This is the only tier I've had to adjust the price for and it appears the change has worked. For the past few months, at least one of the two stories that have been chosen in the polls have come from Patron submitted ideas. That being said, the next poll I have in mind might be a little different and a bit more difficult to submit ideas for. As always, if you don't have anything that fits that particular poll theme, feel free to suggest your stories for the general poll.

You can find the appropriate post to submit general story suggestions for this month here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/55703287

Tier 5 Beholder ($25): Commission Discounts and Priority

This tier is doing what it's supposed to do, offering a method for people that want to commission me with a discount and would prefer to skip the waiting list. Haven't had any in a while, but I am ready and willing should anyone pledge to this tier.

General Stuff and Announcement:

Let's start with some good things with the Patreon. I'm about halfway towards my initial goal of $100 a month. During that time, what funds I have received helped me to obtain a new laptop when my old one was on the fritz. I want to thank everyone who's donated, whether that be the big Patrons or anyone who tipped me a $1. I appreciate the support, which brings me to my next point.

After the latest poll, I am now up to 4 stories in my backlog for Patrons. Part of the reason I'm behind is due to the evacuation I had back in late August, but there are other factors as well. To remedy this growing backlog, I'm going to be putting a hold on commissions so I can focus on Patreon stories for a while. I'll resume commissions as normal once I catch up on the stories. During this commission freeze, if any $25 Patrons pledge to my Patreon, I'll be more than happy to put you on the Patron waiting list and honor your discount when I resume commissions again.

Once again, thank you all for your support and hopefully this hiatus will get things back on track story-wise.