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Introduction Too: Conker Exchange is an idea thought up by Lorena and Elli. They thought of it independently, an idea about women, the internet, asking questions, staying in touch, babies, work, child loss, relationships and all those other facets of life. They had an idea which involved a chat site, an exchange of information, an online shop for women's products, advice pages and a chance for women to earn a bit of money, somehow. From this idea grew another idea. To try and set something like this up, without ever meeting. To communicate purely by email. To rely on the written word and to make friends with someone without any of the barriers which voice and appearance can create. It is true that new barriers were created: Elli couldn't see when Lorena was tired and Lorena couldn't hear when Elli was joking. But soon a new way of communicating developed as the need to be very open and to 'over-communicate' became clear. A note sent: I'm ill! Or: we're away this weekend/I've got loads on. This all helped. And also the longer mails which started with sentences like: I've had time today, but don't feel stressed by what I'm sending, read it and respond when you have time :-) This way of communicating has led to the slow gestation and birth of Conker Exchange, Lorena and Elli's baby. At the moment Baby Conker is very small, she just has some great places to chat and some new folks to meet. But like all parents, Lorena and Elli have great plans for their baby. When Conker grows up, she'll be rich and famous and beautiful and a doctor and will always shop ethically and help other people fulfil their dreams and lead happy lives.
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