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[jawusa]

[4t2] Sixam - Secret Alien World for TS2 ^^

Remember my 4t2 Sixam project I started 2 years ago? Which I almost scrapped but revisited sometime last year? ... well, I've got good news for you then. It's finally out now! ^^

Welcome to Sixam!

Sixam Academy is a prestigious intergalactic university on the planet of Sixam that provides special training for aspiring students to become Birth Queens, Colony Drones, or even the latest innovation in alien technology: Pollination Technicians. The academy offers hands-on experiences, collaborative research, and cultural exploration, alongside interstellar expeditions, nurturing a community focused on curiosity, inclusivity, and innovation.

Yes, I recreated the secret alien world from TS4 for TS2 as a custom university subhood! Why as a university subhood you may ask? Well, I tried to keep the original vibes of Sixam of it being an "unlockable"/visitable place your sims can explore rather than a regular neighborhood your sims can live in!

Well, even after graduation, your sims can actually stay and live in the university subhood using Lamare's YAs can enjoy maternity (and all that) mod, as well as Lamare's Pets at University mod!

While technically it's a university, it could easily also be just a downtown or a main hood, as it includes quite a few urban city-style residential & community lots that a main hood/downtown would also otherwise have… just all in sci-fi/alien theme, of course! ;)

Download: MTS | Simblr.cc | SFS

More info under the cut...

Neighborhood Info:

Requires only Uni/NL/OFB EP and no CC were used to build the lots - I made this without Apartment Life EP, so TS2 Super Collection users can also use it, but in the future, I might also make an alternative version as an actual downtown with apartment lots!

No camera mod is needed, yet, still recommended for easier gameplay, especially since some lots were built on skyscrapers and can be hard to view with just the vanilla camera.

Number of Sims: 90 (10 playable sims in 4 playable families, 31 townies, 44 NPCs, 5 dead sims)

Number of Lots: 35 (7 residential lots, 2 Greek houses, 5 dorms, 1 secret society, 20 community lots, where 8 of which are owned businesses)

Gameplay Info:

Speaking of lots, I made lecture halls for every major, which you could use with beestew's Active Classes mod! These are community lots, featuring skill-building equipment and study spaces, with NPC professors (as lot owners) available for tutoring whenever your sims visit.

I also made an optional custom skybox and custom lighting file for Sixam that will make it always nighttime (Yes, you heard right! The sun never shines here on Sixam!) with subtle seasonal color changes - reddish in Autumn, bluish in Winter, and greenish in Spring.

While the empty version should be CC-free, the inhabited version requires the 3 alien skintones (blue/turquoise/violet) from my [4t2] aliens set to keep the TS4 alien characters like Aileen Rauvu authentic. As giving all these colorful aliens the default green skin instead felt as bad as white-washing, say, giving black characters like Olive Specter a lighter skintone for me. An alternative CC-free version with no CC skintones is also available for players who prefer to not have any CC skintones in their games, though.

I also recreated some characters from TS4, especially all the characters from the The Sims 4 Get to Work: Sul Sul trailer. Every character comes with a complete set of ancestors (at least parents) and customized memories, even townies and NPCs! Some also come with interesting lore! Even though, they're just... townies! Oh, and everyone has genetic infant faces! Yayy! XD

Speaking of characters, scripted events don't work in subhoods, but I wrote a text in each family description that somewhat mimic the scripted event notifications anyway. I think this is a brilliant and fun way of introducing new characters, even in university subhoods. All households should also have a complete set of family album pictures that show their lore a bit. ^^

Recommended Mods:

All notownieregen/antiredudancy/nodormiespawn/nossrespawn mods. All university townies/NPCs in Sixam are aliens.. or at least have a very good reason why they're there, but this can easily be ruined if you don't have these mods installed, lol.

bloodredtoe's Mannequin babies can be born mod. To have more variety, I used the mannequin skintone for some of the alien sims. While this mod isn't required, it's recommended to prevent crashes, especially when these aliens have offspring, as there's a chance they could inherit the mannequin skintone.

Squinge's No Townie Memory Loss. Again, townies and NPCs in this neighborhood are highly customized and I recommend getting no townie amnesia mods to prevent their lore from getting wiped out! As there are a few clues in the bios of some of the townies... including long lost twins!

lingeringwillx's Restore Default Names for Sims in Subneighbohoods . This is especially helpful, not only because the townies/NPCs are related to the playable sims, but also, it will help to maintain the alien atmosphere of Sixam with names like Pollination Technicians, Colony Drones or Birth Queens, etc. instead of having EA's default townie/NPC names.

Install Instructions:

This download consists of 3 parts:

Neighborhood itself:

Place the USXM folder into your PROGRAM FILES/EA Games/The Sims 2 University/TSData/Res/NeighborhoodTemplate folder

Note: If you have TS2 UC, it's PROGRAM FILES/EA Games/The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection/University Life/EP1/TSData/Res/NeighborhoodTemplate

Note: If you have TS2 Legacy, it's PROGRAM FILES/EA Games/The Sims 2 Legacy/EP1/TSData/Res/NeighborhoodTemplate

2. OPTIONAL: Custom skybox (& 3 new alien skintones):

Place the Sixam CC folder into your DOCUMENTS/EA Games/The Sims 2/Downloads folder

Note: If you have TS2 UC, it's DOCUMENTS/EA Games/The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection/Downloads

Note: If you have TS2 Legacy, it's DOCUMENTS/EA Games/The Sims 2 Legacy/Downloads

3. OPTIONAL: Custom lighting (for enabling 24/7 nights):

Place the sixam_lot.txt file into your PROGRAM FILES/EA Games/The Sims 2 Mansion & Garden Stuff/TSData/Res/Lights folder

Note: If you have TS2 UC, it's PROGRAM FILES/EA Games/The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection/Fun with Pets/SP9/TSData/Res/Lights

Note: If you have TS2 Legacy, it's PROGRAM FILES/EA Games/The Sims 2 Legacy/EP9/TSData/Res/Lights

Credits:

To EA for creating Sixam in the first place, even though it was originally created for the wrong game ;)

Makers of SimPE (especially with the newest version, allowing creation of customized NPCs!)

Mootilda for all her amazing tools, especially LotCompressor, LotAdjustor, HoodChecker, and her tutorial on how to create a custom subhood template.

Numenor for his AnyGameStarter, allowing for the creation of a Uni/NL/OFB only environment.

@lowedeus for his original skybox, which I recolored and modified to make the skybox season-friendly, as well as @criquette-was-here for the tutorial on how to make nhood objects glow at night.

Gwenke for the original ocean surface nhood deco, which I also recolored and modified to make it glow at night.

@catherinetcjd for all her inspring builds and also for being such an amazing friend. I recommend her Isosceles Apartments, Experiment 4.2, The Colony as well as her Pyramid Commune No. 9 Live, specifically as optional additional lots for this neighborhood. I learned a lot from you in the past few years of neighborhood and lot building!

Creusa Sims for her support and love while I was creating this neighborhood. It was fun discussing some of the lore in this neighborhood with you. XD

@lordcrumps for also being such an amazing friend! It was you who kept pushing me to actually redo the skybox when I wasn't happy with the draft version, lol! And also for your helpful inputs very early on. ^^

@lamare-sims for being such a talented modder and her amazing mods that make living in university subhoods possible in the first place! This concept wouldn't have otherwise made sense.

That's it for now I guess? I hope you have as much fun with this neighborhood as I had building it! <3

[visenyaism]

Just when you think you have hit rock bottom. bam. 2 factor authentication required☝️notification

[quinnhills]

I just got a notification from Tumblr that said it’s my birthday, which is weird because my birthday isn’t for a few more weeks.

This image appeared with a caption that says, “It's my 2 year anniversary on Tumblr 🥳”

2 years ago I started this…

On February 9, 2023 I was 5 months on HRT, I had not come out to my immediate family other than my older brother, and I was still boymoding most days. By my birthday a few weeks later, I planned to be out to everyone and only be myself in the world.

That’s what I did.

It’s scary right now in 2025, but it always was. Authenticity requires vulnerability. Most of us aren’t taught how to harness the kind of strength we need to be unapologetically ourselves. I had to put in work. I’ve been in therapy for years. And even with all that, coming out is still a massive daunting series of hurdles.

Right now, I fear for myself and my community. A lot of good people are struggling. I don’t know what will happen. I don’t have a passport that reflects who I am. I feel trapped.

As hard as things are for me right now, they aren’t as hard as spending every waking moment hiding who I am. They aren’t as hard as the 10+ years of adulthood where I let friendships and relationships fade because I didn’t want to bother other people. I thought I didn’t matter. I thought I was a useless annoyance. Any people who did remain in my life were usually folks who I allowed to steamroll me completely.

I thought my original songs were a waste of time. Performing them in front of other people felt impossible. I stopped performing my music live in public in 2010. That was dysphoria. That was fear of failure. And it would be well over a decade before I found my power.

I don’t miss those challenges. I was born in 1989, but I never had a good year until 2023. My best year was 2024. I got back on stage. I put out an album. I learned a lot.

I don’t look at 2025 with much optimism, but I do know a few things:

I came out when I was ready

I don’t miss being in the closet

People have exited my life, but I am way better off without their toxicity and control

My friendships now are purer and more radiant then they ever had been

I love myself

I’m doing things I only dreamed of before

I forget sometimes how much I’ve endured and how much strength I have.

I’ve made it this far.

You have, too.

[nerdyqueerandjewish]

7 Types of Rest

I've been reading a bit about this and jotting down some notes because the framework is helpful for communicating my different kinds of exhausted and gives me ideas on how to help myself more, and idk I thought I would share because I think other people might find it useful or interesting. I don't have just one article on it to recommend because unfortunately they are almost all trying to sell you their telehealth services or a meditation app or whatever.

**Disclaimer that resting isn't going to fix everything, examples of things to do aren't going to be accessible to everyone, they are just meant to be a start to brain storming, this is not medical advice etc...**

Physical - Relates to activities that are physically restorative

Mental - Relates to taking a break from mental stimulation

Spiritual - Relates to the fundamental need for belonging, purpose and acceptance

Emotional - Relates to being able to experience and express your real and authentic feelings

Sensory - Relates to giving your senses a break from stimulation

Social - Relates to feeling energized by spending time with people who contribute to your life in positive, supportive, and meaningful ways

Creative - Relates to appreciating beauty or feeling awe/wonder

Notes I made for "signs you need x type of rest" and actually getting that type of rest are under the cut. Again, they are personal so take them with a grain of salt. Also some of my notes on things I could do would definitely apply to others. I didn't want to keep writing "go outside" and "journal" for over half of them lol.

Physical Rest

Signs you may need physical rest

Feeling fatigued, body aches and pains

Feeling mentally sluggish or foggy

Getting some relief

Prioritize getting good quality sleep

Go on walks or engage in other gentle physical activity

Stretch throughout the day

Getting a massage (maybe trade with a friend or partner?)

Improve the ergonomics of your workspace

Mental Rest

Signs you may need mental rest

Unable to concentrate or recall simple things

Unable to relax

Racing thoughts

Getting some relief

Schedule breaks throughout the day

Write things down (can help racing thoughts or things you're worried about forgetting)

Do a satisfying activity that doesn't require much thought (example: coloring pages, simple craft)

Spiritual Rest

Signs you may need spiritual rest

Feeling lack of purpose or belonging

Getting some relief

Get involved in local community

volunteer

pray or meditate

Emotional Rest

Signs you may need emotional rest

Feeling weighed down

Stifling/suppressing feelings

Strong need to please others

Getting some relief

Talk to someone who allows you to be your authentic self

Participating in a peer support group

Journaling

Sensory Rest

Signs you may need sensory rest

Feeling energized at the start of the day, but becoming more irritable as the day progresses

Getting distracted by noises other people seem to be able to tune out

Getting some relief

Use dimmable lighting or lamps

Regularly set notifications to do not disturb

Use power strips to easily turn off multiple appliances at once

Avoid running loud appliances during busy parts of the day (ex. if washing machine is loud, don't run it while you're trying to pack and get out the door on time)

Social Rest

Signs you may need social rest

Feeling drained, exhausted

Feeling like your only interactions are with people who want/need something from you

Getting some relief

Nurture life-affirming, meaningful relationships

Make time for socializing with friends who don't "need" anything from you, where you can just enjoy each other's company

If you know you will be interacting with someone you find draining, make a plan to engage in social rest after

Creative Rest

Signs you may need creative rest

Feeling "blah"

Struggling with problem solving or brainstorming

Getting some relief

Go out in nature

Spend time in inviting spaces

Listen to music

Watch a skilled performer

Display items you find visually appealing in both home and work spaces

[ladamedusoif]

Gentleman Cowboy

Jack “Whiskey” Daniels x F!Reader

Pairing: Jack “Whiskey” Daniels x F!Reader

Word count: 3500

Summary: A solo getaway. A fateful glass of whiskey. And a very charming cowboy, ready to explore the big city.

Rating: Explicit; 18+ MDNI

Warnings: Alcohol references and consumption; non-canon compliant as is right and proper because that man deserved better; oral sex (F receiving); safe PiV sex; little bit of strong language; no physical descriptions of Reader other than her blue dress and red lipstick; fluff; Jack-typical pet names (sugar, sweetheart, darlin’).

A/N: A belated birthday fic for @agentjackdaniels, who deserves all the nice things - including a certain, irresistible, (retired) secret agent turned ranch owner.

Follow my writing blog, @ladameecrit, and turn on notifications to keep up with my writing.

Charisma.

The jury’s out on whether you’re born with it or can acquire it. For some people, it’s just there. Natural, easy, instantaneous. Doesn’t mean they’re more attractive, necessarily, or more successful. Just… charismatic. 

Hard to explain, but you know it when you see it. And you’d seen it today, checking into the hotel for your solo birthday getaway. A staycation, of sorts - this is your home city, after all - but an escape nonetheless, a break from work, from stress, and a chance to mark another turn around the sun.

He was in the lobby while you were queuing to check in, sitting on one of the hotel’s chi-chi armchairs leafing through a city guidebook. By chance, you glanced in his direction at just the moment he raised his head.

He was all brown eyes, bright smile, dimple set in a tanned handsome face. More than that: he exuded charisma. 

He nodded. You nodded back. By the time you’d checked in and secured your room key, he was gone.

***

He’s been to this city many times before, but always for work. Never any time for sightseeing or getting to know the place. In retirement, he made it his business to return to those old stomping grounds he wished he’d seen more of, joyfully embracing the life of a tourist for a few days before returning to the horse-breeding ranch he owned and ran back home in Kentucky.

The hotel bar is elegant and modern, wooden accents and brushed metal fittings perfectly in line with his own taste. He’s settled in a cosy corner alone, whiskey tumbler in hand, when he sees her again. 

Her casual outfit from earlier has been replaced by a diaphanous, layered dress in midnight blue, printed with a pattern reminiscent of Van Gogh’s Starry Night. He half-expects to see a companion, joining her for a post-prandial nightcap. But she’s on her own.

Just like him.

The bar is quiet. He can’t help but overhear her at the bar. “It’s my birthday,” she tells the bartender, grinning happily. “They said I could have a complimentary drink.”

The bartender smiles and nods. “Sure thing, ma’am. What would you like?”

Jack watches as she peruses the gleaming shelves of liquor bottles behind the bar, noting the adorable way she chews on her lower lip while she’s thinking. 

“I’ll make it a whiskey. A Gentleman Jack, please.”

His ears perk up in spite of himself.

Thing is, Jack’s pretty good at reading other human beings. Part of the job, after all, and pretty hard to let something like that slide when you’re no longer an active agent in the field. 

He knows, then, that it might be a bit much for him to launch a typical come-on attempt at the bar. You seem like the type to find that too heavy-handed, disconcerting - cheesy, even.

Not that Jack minds cheesy, as required.

He returns to his book and when he looks up again, you’re taking your Gentleman Jack over to a small table in the other part of the bar. He taps his glass to get your attention. 

“Hope you don’t mind me overhearing, miss, but I just wanted to wish you a very happy birthday,” he says, Southern drawl as warm and as authentic as the Bourbon in his glass. He raises the tumbler to you, and you reciprocate. 

”Enjoy that whiskey, now. Fine choice, if I may say.”

***

He’s definitely not flirting with you. Right? Right. Just a Southern gentleman of the kind that’s all “manners maketh man” and “yes ma’am” and opening doors for ladies. Probably illegal for him not to wish you a happy birthday. 

Just a gorgeous man with the twinkliest, kindest eyes you’ve ever seen in your life, dressed in a beautifully-tailored western-style shirt and perfect dark denims, wishing you a happy birthday. Move along, nothing to see here. 

You settle in with your birthday drink and your copy of One Hundred Years of Solitude, immersing yourself back in the world of the Buendia clan. Occasionally, you glance back in his direction, and sometimes, he’s looking over at you, too.

Coincidence. 

As the alcohol hits you, you adopt a more cliched “mysterious woman” approach, as befits the slick of vintage-style dark red lipstick you’re wearing for the occasion. Let’s see what happens. No more looking over again, just you, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and Gentleman Jack. A good time to be had by all - handsome guy or not.

He’s gone the next time you raise your head. Empty seat. Empty glass. And your heart sinks, against your better judgment. 

“Fuck it. Another whiskey’s in order - for the room.”

You nod over to the bartender, ordering another of the same and asking for it to be put on your room bill. 

He returns swiftly with another crystal tumbler of the amber liquid and what looks like a business card. “Ma’am, the gentleman that was just here asked if he could pay for your next drink. Seeing as it’s your birthday. He just had one condition - that we pass this on.”

He hands you the business card, and it’s embossed on one side with a name:

Jack Daniels, Esq.

Some promotional thing, you assume, connected to the whiskey in your glass. But there’s something written in a clear, determined print on the rear of the card. 

A number - a room extension number - and a message.

Happy birthday, miss. If you want to say howdy, this is where you’ll find me - J.D.

You quirk an eyebrow. This seems…insane. Like a set-up waiting to be revealed. But you take the card and head to your room with the whiskey, half-expecting that the next time you look at the little business card it’ll be blank - the note gone, imagined, the product of your own febrile brain and the power of Gentleman Jack.

Still there. Still metaphorically winking at you, daring you to call.

***

One finger of whiskey down. Enough to give you the courage to dial that number. 

If it’s him, and he’s not a creep, just say thank you. That’s all you want, right? And he wouldn’t possibly want anything else.

He picks up almost immediately. “Well, hello there. Glad that barkeep gave you the card, miss.” His voice is low and honeyed over the line. 

You clench your thighs together involuntarily.

”I, uh…I wanted to say thank you. For the drink.”

He chuckles. Oh, fuck. That voice.

”Wouldn’t be any kind of gentleman if I didn’t buy a lady a birthday drink. Specially when she’s drinking one that bears his name.”

You pause for a second. This is…weird. Pinch yourself, once, twice.

”So that’s your actual name? Jack Daniels?”

”The one and same, at your service.”

The whiskey has emboldened you. “Ah, but are you a gentleman, Jack?”

You swear you can hear him inhale sharply. “Well, well. Guess you’d have to get to know me to find out.”

”Birthday or no birthday, Mr Daniels, I’m not in the business of inviting strange men into my hotel room.”

”Fine by me, sweet girl. How’s about I meet you in the lobby in five minutes? Might be cold but it’s a nice night for a walk. You know the city?”

”Lived here my whole life.”

He chuckles again. Oh, girl. You are in trouble.

”Now, ain’t that something. Perfect person to show a lonesome cowboy around. Grab your coat, sugar.”

***

He’s already waiting in the lobby when you walk out of the lift, wearing a black leather jacket with a corduroy-trimmed collar and a dark brown, felt broad-brimmed hat. Not quite a Stetson, but still perfect for a cowboy visiting the big city. His dark brown boots are impeccably polished, you notice.

”Well, hi there, birthday girl!” He grins, laughter lines around his eyes crinkling and emphasising the handsome contours of his face. “Guess we should introduce ourselves properly.” He extends his hand. “Jack Daniels.”

You introduce yourself and find yourself chuckling at the strange coincidence of his name. “Are you anything to the whiskey brand? I feel like I should know, just in case this is some insane promotional stunt.”

He laughs, a bright, genuine chuckle that makes your heart sing. “Sadly, I’m not the JD. But Whiskey was my…nickname. Once upon a time.”

”Makes sense,” you say, as he holds open the hotel door for you and you step out into the night. “Now, Jack Whiskey Daniels, where to?”

“I’ll leave that up to you, birthday girl. You’re the native and the expert. Happy to surrender myself to your capable hands. Only thing is…” He pauses, looking a little sheepish. “I’m hungry enough to eat a stable door. Mind if we pick up a little something on the way?”

You giggle, noticing the little flecks of grey among the dark hairs of his perfectly-trimmed moustache. “I’ve got just the thing, Jack. Come with me.”

***

”I cannot believe that delicious slice was two dollars. Two dollars! And they always say this city’s expensive.”

You swallow the last bite of your own pizza slice and laugh. “It is expensive, but the dollar slice still reigns supreme. Even if it’s two bucks these days.”

You wander companionably in the direction of the elevated garden walkway, your chosen destination for this stroll through your home city. “So this your first time here?”

Jack shakes his head. “Not quite. Been here a few times over the years, but…never got to see much. Always workin’, in and out of our headquarters. No time for just getting to know a place.”

You nod sympathetically. “If it’s any consolation, sometimes it’s harder to see the good in a city when you’re there all the time. So it’s nice for me to get to be a tourist tonight, too.” The two of you climb the stairs and emerge on the walkway, you pointing out key landmarks to Jack as you stroll along together.

”So are you on a break from work this time?”

He looks at you with a soft smile. “Retired. These days I spend my time on the ranch, down home in Kentucky.”

You clap your hands excitedly when he explains that it’s a horse-breeding ranch. “Oh, wow. I just love horses - truth be told, I think there’s a cowgirl streak in me somewhere. City girl or no city girl.”

He laughs that gorgeous, warm laugh, and you feel your heart skip a beat. “Always happy to welcome a city slicker cowgirl on a tour, sweet girl. You just say the word.”

***

As you walk, you realise just how attentively Jack is listening to you. He takes in every detail, every word that leaves your lips, whether it be about the city or about you. 

With a pang you realise that it had been a very long time since someone really and truly seemed to listen. To see you. 

Or maybe he’s just like that with everyone. You are equally rapt, revelling in the melodious rhythm and comforting timbre of his baritone as he tells you about his ranch, his favourite horses, his fascination with the city. 

You’d always assumed that you might be too overwhelmed in the presence of a man so incredibly handsome and charming to do more than just gape at his beautiful form. With Jack, though, you’d never felt more at ease. 

And, dare you say it - he seems pretty darn comfortable, too.

The wardens on the garden walkway announce that it’s about to close, and you find the nearest exit and return to street level. It’s almost imperceptible, but for an instant you swear you can feel his broad hand on your back as you cross the street, heading back to the hotel. 

“Now I’ve got a confession to make, Jack.”

He turns and raises his eyebrows.

”I’m hungry again. You want another slice?”

His smile feels bright enough to power half the city. “A two-buck pizza slice with the prettiest girl in town? Count me in, sugar.”

***

Your whole life, you’d assumed it was safer to wait until they made the first move. Helped avoid any embarrassing moments where you’d read the vibe wrong. Easier, too, to assume you would want someone more than they wanted you.

The electrical charge that’s crackling between you and Jack Daniels as you stand side by side in the hotel lift is a little too powerful for the “wait and see” approach. You look at him again, in side profile this time. 

Fuck. That is a beautiful man.

”Jack?”

He turns his head and smiles. Your hands find first his shoulders, then the light stubble on his jaw. He closes his eyes as you caress his face, dark lashes resting on his cheeks. You move closer, feeling his breath on your face, tilt your head, and lean in to find his lips in a slow, gentle kiss.

The lift pings as he pulls you tight to him, tongue seeking entrance to your mouth. His floor.

”I sure hope this ain’t too forward, sugar, but… would you like to come to my room?” 

You’re already walking out of the lift, holding his hand as you pull him down the corridor that leads to the guest rooms. 

“Thought you’d never ask, cowboy.”

***

No sooner have you got to the room than he’s pushing you against the wall, your hands hastily unbuttoning his shirt and jeans while his broad hands grope your tits through your favourite dress. 

“Goddammit, sweetheart, these are damn gorgeous,” he murmurs, fingers tracing the outline of your hard nipples under the light fabric. “You are damn gorgeous.”

”So are you, cowboy,” you purr, slipping your hand gently inside his boxer briefs as he moves you away from the wall and over to the king-size bed. Even half-hard, you are impressed by the feel of his cock in your hand - thick, heavy, and velvet-soft around the head.

He lays you down on the bed and quickly peels off his shirt, revealing a broad, tanned body clad in a white undervest that clings lasciviously to the muscles of his chest and back as well as the softness of his tummy. It’s a tantalising sight: Jack, his dark, silver-streaked hair slightly mussed and falling forward over his brow, propped up above you on the bed. You trace your fingertips over the pattern of freckles that peeks over the neckline of his vest.

”Can I taste you, pretty girl?”

You nod, throwing your head back and whining with pleasure as he gets to his knees at the edge of the bed and lifts up the skirts of your dress. He hums and moans contentedly as he buries his nose and mouth against your aching pussy, still wearing your panties.

”God-fuckin’-dammit. You’re gonna taste so sweet.”

With a swift tug your panties are off and his head is between your legs, stubble tickling deliciously over the sensitive skin on your inner thighs as his moustache presses against your wet folds.

”Taste me, Jack, please.”

The first long, slow, lick of his tongue up your slit is enough to have you moaning. 

“Fuck, sugar suits you. Sweet as fuckin’ sugar down here.”

Another long, slow lick, tongue flat against you, and then the tip finds your pussy, flicking over the hole and dipping in and out until you feel like he’s fucking you with it. His nose rubs against your swollen clit in time with the thrust of his tongue.

”You’re gonna make me come, Jack…keep doing that, that’s it.”

You focus on the sensation, the sounds that fill the hotel room: your gentle moans, Jack grunting against your pussy while his hand works his own cock, the lewd wetness of your soaking cunt as he brings you closer and closer to orgasm.

”C’mon, sweetheart, come for me - c’mon, good girl. Got you so nice and wet, darlin’, I know you’re close.”

He rests a hand on your tummy as your hips start to buck upwards, the orgasm building and building inside of you until, with a scream of his name, you come hard on his face.

”Think you enjoyed that, sweetheart.”

”Fuck, Jack, that was…fuck.” You sit up and he helps you out of your dress, eyes roaming over your body and settling on the curves of your tits inside the dark blue lace of your bra.

”Can I take this off, sugar?”

You nod, reaching for the hem of his undervest. “Sure, cowboy. But you have to be naked too.”

He is only too happy to oblige. Undervest discarded and boxers on the floor, Jack climbs onto the bed beside you and sits you up. He takes his time with your breasts, unhooking your bra and tossing it to one side before bringing his mouth to each nipple and lovingly kissing and sucking and caressing them in turn. 

“What do you want, baby?”

It’s a rhetorical question. You both know what you want. He breaks away and you lie back on the bed, spreading your legs, moaning delightedly as you feel his gorgeous weight settling on top of you. 

“Want you, Jack. Want you to fuck me until this whole city knows who’s having me.”

He flushes visibly and chuckles, standing up to retrieve his wash bag and returning with a packet of condoms in hand. “And there I was thinkin’ you were a shy little thing, sweet girl.” 

You laugh. “I’m shy until you get to know me, Jack Daniels. Shy, until…”

He positions himself back between your thighs, carefully rolling the condom over his impressively thick cock. 

“Until?” 

You pause for a moment to look into his eyes. “Until I feel like I’m safe with someone.”

He melts a little, leaning down to kiss you softly and slowly.

”That’s a heck of a compliment, sugar. A nice thing, to know you feel so safe with me.”

You smile and look up at him from under your lashes. “I think it’s your charm, cowboy. Not bad for two people who were strangers until a few hours ago.”

He hums happily and kisses you again. ”Not bad at all. Can I have you, sweetheart?”

”Yes fuckin’ please, Jack.” 

He takes you slowly, carefully, stretching you steadily until he’s fully sheathed inside you. He takes a moment, squeezing his eyes closed as he fights the urge to go straight to fucking you as hard as he wishes.

”Feel good, Jack?”

”Feels out of this world, baby. Perfect tight, wet pussy, perfect pretty girl.”

He pulls his hips back slowly before snapping back into position and you whine, wrapping your hands around his shoulders. 

“That feel good for you, baby?”

You nod frantically. “The best. Fuck me, Jack. Want to feel you.”

He builds up the pace slowly, steadily, taking you deeper and deeper before moving to take you harder and faster. Instinctively you hitch up your legs, finding your calves wrapping around his lower back as he starts to fuck you at just the right angle.

He babbles as he fucks you, praising you, promising you things you remind yourself not to see as anything more than sex talk. How he’ll bring you home with him someday, come back up to see you here, make you all his, how he wants to be all yours.

With a swift shift of his hand he finds your clit again. You come harder, again, crying out his name as he fucks and talks you through it. 

“Good, good girl, my good girl,” he murmurs, eyes locked on the place your bodies are joined as he watches you ride out your orgasm. “You’re so beautiful, you know that? Prettiest damn thing I’ve ever seen.”

His long fingers press hard into your hips and you can tell he’s about to come. For a brief, sudden, vivid instant you fantasise about throwing all caution to the wind and letting him finish inside you: filling you, claiming you for his, all his.

Jack comes hard, groaning and crying out your name. He rests on your shoulder for a moment, catching his breath, before pulling out and nuzzling in beside you. You turn to face him, fingers trailing through the dark, damp strands of wavy hair clinging to his brow.

”Good, darlin’?”

You kiss him. “Very, very, very good, Jack Daniels.”

He chuckles against your kiss. “And do you think I’m a gentleman now?”

You pull back and flit your eyes over his face, as if making an assessment. 

“Let’s see. Gentleman cowboy on the streets, gentlemanly demon in the sheets. Sounds perfect to me.”

***

You sleep soundly that night, nestled safely against Jack’s warm body. He wakes you with the gentlest of kisses to your forehead, and for a moment you can’t remember. 

And then those coffee-brown eyes, that smile, and you know you’re right where you’re meant to be.

[botgal]

California Bills To Watch For

I'm sure by now that many people are aware of the dangers posed by AB 3080 (discussed in my post here), but for those unaware, there are yet other bills in California that pose a danger to free use of the internet which we should also keep on the forefront of our minds. 3 of the 4 bills I will mention here will be going up for a hearing in the California Senate Committee on Appropriations, one of the bills is currently being held in suspense file until the suspense file is read and thus will not be up for discussion in the same way as the rest. So that one will remain more on the back burner but still good to call your representatives about nonetheless. (A link on how you can find your reps here).

CA SB 976: Protecting Our Kids From Social Media Addiction Act (Senator Skinner et al)

Building on the California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act, this bill seeks to make it unlawful for the operator of an addictive 'internet-based service or application' to provide an 'addictive feed' to a user unless the operator doesn't have actual knowledge the user is a minor, has reasonably determined the user isn't a minor, or has obtained verifiable parental consent to provide an addictive feed to a minor user.

Essentially a very complicated and roundabout bill which would be difficult to enforce and would necessitate the usage of age verification for nearly all users. Especially when the alternative is that parents would have to also give up their identifiable information to allow a child to use an online platform. And also limits the ability of a minor user to receive notifications from a service or application during times assumed to be for school attendance or for late night usage. Great potentials for privacy violations and potential dangers for minors in abusive households where parents can exercise greater control over them and what they do. Also does not limit this specifically to social media platforms.

Overall a very unnecessarily complex bill that attempts to solve issues with perceived addictive social media features in inefficient and privacy violating ways.

Currently set for Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on May 13th.

CA SB 1228: User Identity Authentication (Senator Steve Padilla)

Requires social media platforms to verify the identities of people with large social media followings and influence in a tiered system. Nominally to minimize the spread of misinformation during an election year.

"Influential users" are defined as people who either has content that has been seen by more than 50,000 users within a seven-day period across all accounts the user controls on the platform, those with accounts over 15,000 followers, or ranks in the top 6% of users by amount of content viewed by users on the platform within a seven-day period across all their accounts on that platform. These users would be required to provide the platform with their name, telephone number, and email address in order to be considered authenticated.

"Highly influential users" are defined as people whose content has been seen by more than 100,000 users within a seven-day period across all accounts the user controls on the platform, those with accounts over 30,000 followers, or ranks in the top 3% of users by amount of content viewed by users on the platform within a seven-day period across all their accounts on that platform. These users would be required to provide the platform with their name, telephone number, email address, and government-issued identification in order to be considered authenticated.

Supposedly there would be safeguards and rules saying that any information taken to authenticate a user would not be stored or used for anything besides authentication. And they would be marked as authenticated, with the option to block non-authenticated users. But also allows social media companies the option of requiring either of these things even for those who aren't considered influential or highly influential.

Essentially another identity verification measure which should not be allowed to pass, and unnecessarily complicated and unlikely to work in its attempts to prevent misinformation.

Currently set for Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on May 13th.

CA SB 1444: Let Parents Choose Protection Act of 2024 (Senator Stern)

Requires large social media platform providers to create, maintain, and make available third-party safety providers through which parents or guardians are able to control what appears on their child's social media feed.

Another bill which by its sheer existence would put the identities and information of users at risk, both adults and minors. And would likely lead to further age or identity verification measures which would be wholly unnecessary and highly invasive.

CA AB 1949: California Consumer Privacy Act of 2020: collection of personal information of a consumer less than 18 years of age (Assembly Member Lowenthal)

Would remove the conditions that an online business have actual knowledge that the consumer is less than 16 years of age, and would prohibit a business from selling or sharing information of a consumer less than 18 years of age unless the consumer or their parent/guardian has authorized the sale of the personal information. Also requires businesses to inform the consumers of what information is being collected and sold and will not collect additional information. Allows consumers the right to opt out of any sale of personal information, but by default none under 18 may have their information sold.

Also runs the risk of invasive age verification becoming the norm for internet websites, rather than wholesale allowing the opting in and out of sale of personal information to be default for all.

Currently set to the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Suspension File.

With all that said, while I know it may seem like a lot, please look into these bills as much as you can, and send messages to your representatives letting them know you're in opposition to all of them and what they could potentially mean for our internet freedom, privacy, and safety.

[v-ividus]

22. The Illusion of Trust: Decoding the Broken Bonds of a Widely Fractured Society

“It is right that you learn all things — both the unshaken heart of well-rounded truth and the beliefs of mortals, in which there is no true trust.” — Parmenides

In a world rife with superficial relationships and digital interactions, trust has become a currency that is both devalued and yet relentlessly sought after. This paradox creates an unsettling backdrop wherein individuals often mistake the vibrations of social media engagement for genuine connection. What is deemed “likeable” often outweighs what is “trustworthy,” leading to a collective condition where the heart of truth is obscured by the smoke and mirrors of curated online personas. One might argue that as modern society embraces the fleeting dopamine hit provided by attention, it simultaneously compromises the very essence of trust itself.

Authenticity, in its purest form, is rapidly becoming an elusive aspiration. Individuals engage in a dance of façade-building, projecting idealized versions of themselves that are far removed from reality. This self-betrayal extends beyond personal identity into relational exchanges, breeding a climate of codependency. Rather than forging genuine connections, individuals become entangled in webs of emotional manipulation and parasitism—using one another as means to end. The moral ramifications of such behavior create ripples that undermine the foundational ethos required for healthy, fulfilling relationships.

Amidst these dynamics, we must ask: What does it mean to trust in a world where vehement likes eclipse heartfelt conversations? The delicate weave of trust is frayed by fleeting validations that occur at the speed of a thumb swipe. Amid the echoes of endless notifications, the quest for authenticity often finds itself buried beneath layers of curated commentary and attentiveness that serve selfish ends. The gravity of these choices stretches our understanding of interpersonal agency, raising profound questions that challenge our very conception of morality and connection.

Paradoxically, the price of this social currency is steep; it demands the sacrifice of depth for breadth. In an age where every interaction is structured to serve the fickleness of engagement metrics, the more profound human experience—characterized by vulnerability, reciprocity, and, fundamentally, trust—stands endangered. As we deconstruct the intricate ties that bind us, it becomes imperative to reassess not only our motivations for engagement but also the ethical frameworks that sustain our relationships amid chaos.

The Currency of Connection: Emotional Dependency and Social Parasitism

As Parmenides reminds us, the beliefs of mortals are often steeped in treachery rather than truth. The manifestations of emotional dependency in contemporary society reveal a troubling trend: humans are increasingly reliant on one another, not for authenticity, but for mere affirmation. This reliance is amplified through the dynamic of social media, where validation occurs at the cost of genuine connection. It is a paradox of modern life, where the abundance of voices drowns out the quiet power of meaningful discourse.

In this milieu, one must confront the uncomfortable reality of social parasitism—the phenomenon where individuals derive their sense of self-worth from the accomplishments and affection of others rather than fostering their own identity. Individuals become emotional leeches, thriving on the accolades initially designed to bolster communal trust. However, this destructive dependency ultimately erodes the very fabric of society, stranding individuals in a quagmire of unsustainable relationships and hollow connections that masquerade as fulfilling bonds.

Emotional dependency breeds a toxic environment wherein the intention behind interactions becomes muddied. As individuals align their worth with social media engagement, they inadvertently reinforce cycles of manipulation and disengagement. Such practices serve to attenuate the intricacies of ethical decision-making, prioritizing personal validation over collective responsibility. The foundation of mutual respect is undermined, giving way to relationships characterized by a transactional mindset, where emotional debts replace real connection.

To disentangle ourselves from this emotional mire, we must re-establish a hierarchy of values that prioritize depth over superficiality. Authentic connections must revolve around more than mere acknowledgment; they must root themselves in a shared commitment to truth and vulnerability. As social currency continues to proliferate, so too must our defiance against the corrosive impact of emotional parasitism, which threatens not only our relationships but the very essence of humanity itself.

Deconstructing the Ethics of Engagement

The landscape of moral engagement is fraught with ambiguity. Trust, once the cornerstone of productive relationships, now teeters on a precipice of peril, challenged by the fragmented narratives that populate social media. In this kaleidoscope of opinions, the individual voice often becomes an empty whisper devoid of moral grounding. In a world where every tweet and post serves as both a weapon and shield, the ethical dimensions underlying our engagements fall victim to the whims of societal approval.

In tracing the contours of ethical betrayal, we must confront our role as actors within this dynamic. Each user is an architect of their digital identity, wielding the power to shape their perceptions and, by extension, influence others. However, the clash between genuine engagement and performance raises a new dilemma that demand both introspection and accountability. Are we crafting honest-hearted narratives with integrity, or are we merely participating in a tragic masquerade designed to satiate a hungering and insatiable audience?

To build a restoration of trust, it becomes paramount to reevaluate our incentives for engagement. As the boundaries between virtual interactions and tangible relationships continue to blur, the ethical implications of our choices carve marks into the social psyche. Every engagement bears the weight of intention, summoning us to reflect—are we there to uplift our fellow users or are we doing so merely to preserve our status? Amid this reckoning, it becomes increasingly evident that the loss of trust is a consequence of collective inaction as we falter under pressures to conform rather than embrace authenticity.

Rebuilding relationships calls for the courage to engage in uncomfortable conversations, the willingness to dismantle harmful patterns, and the strength to resist the palpable lure of superficial engagement. Only by courageously questioning our motives and the ethics underlying our interactions can we hope to regain the trust frayed by years of emotional neglect and social manipulation. Escaping the clutches of social media-induced isolation requires a steadfast commitment to fostering genuine connections born from realness, empathy, and transparency.

The Renaissance of Resilience: Redefining Trust in the Digital Age

In recognizing the deficiencies propagated by the viral age, we face the exciting challenge of redefining trust. This effort calls for a revival of resilience as a principle, wherein the reclamation of real human connection stands as a primary goal. Acknowledging the pervasive fragmentation necessitates a conscious divergence from the familiar patterns of codependency and emotional parasitism that have marred our collective experiences so far.

At the heart of this quest lies the recognition that we, as individuals, possess the power to effect change. By fostering emotional independence and resilience, we cultivate environments that prioritize authentic connections over hollow affirmations. Such a transformation germinates from collective introspection, where honesty becomes the cornerstone of our interactions, and the delineation between genuine engagement and superficial dialogue is sharply defined.

A call to resilience urges us to dismantle the external validation mechanism that has permeated our relationships. Trust should embody a principle that transcends individual engagement, spreading its roots into the fabric of societal ethics. Cultivating a climate of open communication and shared vulnerability becomes imperative in this transformation, ensuring that our relationships are not merely transactional engagements, but rather profound encounters that affirm our shared humanity.

As we navigate the tumultuous waters of trust in the digital age, we must champion a commitment to authenticity, instilling hope and renewal within the morass of emotional dependency. The path forward illuminates the potential for deeper relationships, urging us to cultivate an understanding of trust that transcends its superficial trappings. The arduous pursuit of this remarkable transformation demands immense strength; yet, in its wake lies the promise of reinstituted kinship founded upon cooperation, compassion, and collective resilience—a true renaissance of trust.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Trust as the Cornerstone of Meaningful Connections

As we reach the culmination of this discourse, it becomes evident that trust transcends mere abstraction; it stands as the essential force that fuels human connection. The disintegration of societal trust compels us to scrutinize our moral compasses, demanding unwavering introspection from both the individual and the collective. We must become acutely aware of our roles in perpetuating cycles of mistrust and ethical decline, while fervently striving to nurture authenticity in a world rife with superficiality.

The harsh truth of our present circumstances—a society plagued by codependency and social parasitism—necessitates a confrontation with our own complicity in this chaos. We are not merely observers; we are challenged to dismantle the walls that obstruct genuine connection. It is crucial to grasp that the cultivation of trust demands relentless effort, the audacity to embrace vulnerability, and a resolute commitment to mutual respect and accountability.

Ultimately, by reclaiming trust, we lay the foundation for relationships imbued with depth and meaning. In championing authentic connections while resisting the seductive lure of external validation, we awaken our potential for profoundly enriching interactions. As we embrace the path ahead, let us acknowledge the transformative potency of trust—an enduring force capable of bridging the divides that fracture us, empowering us to rise above the limitations imposed by social media and our own insecurities. We stand at a pivotal crossroads, where the imperative to restore trust and authenticity will shape the very essence of our future and the bonds we create within it.

[kellysue]

On Interviews and Getting All Up In My Head

If you haven’t yet listened to Sam Fragoso’s interview with Annie Baker, please do. Baker is startlingly honest, and I mean that literally. I was folding clothes, hadn't even chosen the episode—it was just the next thing in my queue after whatever grisly murder podcast I had purposely selected. I was startled enough to stop folding, rewind, and listen again. I don’t want to say too much about it for fear of spoiling the experience for you, but there’s an authenticity there that’s rare. If anyone within the reach of this email knows Fragoso or Baker, please pass along my compliments. It was a hell of a thing.

Interviews are on my mind as I gear up to do press for the new comic. I’m not a shy person, not an introvert in the least (as anyone who’s met me will attest) but I do get up in my head about this stuff. It’s a part of the job that elicits a stew of feelings. The sort of vulnerability required to write, to create anything really, is different from the vulnerability required to talk about the work, about the process, or about yourself in that mix. (My heart is beating a little bit faster all of a sudden—my body reacting to even the thought of it. No kidding: I just got a notification from the Apple Health app.) There’s a certain defensiveness in the experience, no matter how friendly the interlocutor, one I suspect is fueled by the spirit of this internet age. As a part of your brain is searching for an honest answer, another is running through all the ways your response could be deliberately misconstrued, and a third is asking, ‘Will this really help the sales of the book/film/show/etc.?’ Is this worth it?

Baker lays all that bare; she risks being considered “difficult” or annoying Fragoso. (To his great credit, he doesn’t just allow for it; he answers her vulnerability with his own.) She appreciates the thoroughness of his preparation but at the same time wonders aloud at the peculiarity of having something she once said parroted back to her as Truth. She doesn’t deny having said it, and likely it was true once, but memory and identity are fickle things, and the perspective of age alters how the light hits both. Of course, for the purpose of an interview, for the purpose of any conversation, there have to be some things we take as given, but her willingness to highlight the absurdity of the exercise, to own her discomfort, and then to light up when Fragoso is willing to ride along is refreshing, a buoy to me just now.

I love her willingness to push back, too. If you know me, you know I can be a lot, and I don’t exactly have a reputation for conflict-avoidance, but there have been moments/remarks in interviews past that I let slide unchallenged and they gnaw at me still. My hesitancy to hit the press circuit probably has something to do with that as well. Fear of signing up to either answer the well-meaning stranger back or grit my teeth and learn to live with another Lego in my shoe. And for what? In comics, anyway, no one seems to know what press, if any, will move the needle.

Oh goodness. Reading back, I’ve descended into something that looks rather unflatteringly like privileged moping. I am fortunate to make my living in the arts, I know. My challenges are hardly those of a coal miner or a policy-maker, I know, but here we are. Bucking up now, I promise.

I’ll say in closing this bit out, though, that I probably ought to own that my efforts to find new ways to market FML (starting with the acrostic in the last email) are not entirely about the current media landscape. They’re at least in part a reaction to the current me landscape. And I think it’s probably okay to acknowledge the absurdity of being so tired you can’t bring yourself to do things the usual way and then making up new approaches that require three times the work. Nothing if not on brand.

xo

Kelly Sue

[binhwantstoeatoreo]

Week 3: Digital Community: Tumblr Case Study

Gen Z is mourning the un-filtered public sphere of 2014 Tumblr

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok over the past few years, chances are you’ve stumbled into the wistful world of 2014-2016 nostalgia. ‘Tumblr Girls’ by G-Eazy is trending again, King Kylie era with jet-black nails and electric blue hair photos, Lana Del Rey’s Born to Die and Ultraviolence lyrics dripping with melancholy, the glorification of cigarettes and poetic sadness, and those moody GIFs of brooding white girls paired with angst captions about how life is just one big existential crisis.

It’s a full-blown revival of Tumblr’s golden age, when this aesthetic reigned supreme, and Gen Z has welcomed it back like a long-lost comfort blanket. Case in point: a girl doing a cover of Sky Ferreira’s Everything is Embarrassing, with messy hair and off-the-shoulder flannel look, sent the comments spiraling into a collective wave of 2014 Tumblr nostalgia (@reme, 2025).

As of 2021, on TikTok, the hashtag #2014tumblr boasts 83.9 million views, while its counterpart #tumblr2014 has garnered 51.9 million views (Navlakha, 2021). But what does this resurgence mean for a generation raised on fast-paced TikToks and Snapchat notifications? And what does it have to do with the public sphere of Tumblr?

Tumblr as a Public Sphere

Jürgen Habermas’ concept of the public sphere describes a space where individuals gather to exchange ideas outside traditional power structures (Çela, 2015, p. 195). While social media platforms often claim to foster such spaces, their algorithm-driven nature frequently distorts participation, privileging virality over authenticity (Yin, 2024, p. 10-14). This creates a tension between the ideals of a public sphere and the realities of social media's algorithmic governance (Dahlberg, 2007, p. 52)​. Social media platforms grapple with the challenge of distinguishing genuine user profiles from counterfeit accounts (Mahammed et al., 2023, p. 1).

In contrast, Tumblr operated as a counterpublic, a concept described by Warner (2002) as an alternative space where marginalized groups construct their own discourses outside dominant institutions. Byron et al. (2019, p. 2242) apply this idea to Tumblr, highlighting how queer youth used the platform for identity exploration and indirect yet meaningful connections. Tumblr thrived as a platform where users did not need verification badges or massive followings to have a voice; instead, all that was required was internet access and a willingness to share unfiltered thoughts. Unlike social media sites such as Twitter or Instagram, which often prioritize personal branding and follower counts, Tumblr fostered a culture of anonymity and authenticity, allowing individuals to engage without revealing their real identities.

For many LGBTQIA+ users, Tumblr wasn’t just a blogging site—it was a lifeline. Queer youth engaged with the platform far more than other social media, finding a space for identity exploration and connection (Robards & Byron, 2017). According to Byron et al. (2019, p. 2242), young LGBTQIA+ used Tumblr to navigate their identities, often in ways that were indirect and anonymous yet profoundly meaningful​. Unlike Instagram or TikTok, where visibility depends on engagement metrics, Tumblr enabled queer self-expression without the pressure of personal branding. The platform’s unfiltered, pseudonymous culture allowed young people to explore gender, sexuality, and mental health in ways that mainstream social media often stigmatized or ignored.

The Politics of Aesthetic and Self-Expression

The 2014 Tumblr aesthetic isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a whole mood, a rebellion, and a contradiction all at once. It was a space where people rejected the glossy perfection of Instagram and Facebook, opting instead for something raw, messy, and deeply personal. But here’s the thing: even rebellion has its own aesthetic rules. Tumblr’s vibe might have been anti-mainstream, but it still had a way of shaping how people expressed themselves.

Take the #bodypositive movement, for example. At first, Tumblr was the go-to place for people who wanted to push back against traditional beauty standards. It gave users—especially marginalized ones—a space to celebrate diverse bodies, challenge unrealistic ideals, and embrace self-love in ways that mainstream media didn’t allow. But, as Reif et al. (2022, p. 5-6) point out, even in this “empowering” space, certain aesthetics started taking over. A lot of the content still followed a specific look—filtered but “effortless,” curated but “authentic.” So while Tumblr helped redefine beauty, it also reinforced new versions of what was acceptable​.

And that’s exactly the paradox of the 2014 Tumblr aesthetic itself. It was all about being different, but in a way that still fit a certain visual and emotional mold. The black-and-white photos of girls smoking in oversized sweaters, in wired earphones listening to Arctic Monkey, cryptic text posts about sadness—these weren’t just random; they became an entire brand. As Goldberg (2022) notes, Tumblr had a way of romanticizing self-destruction. It made heartbreak poetic. It turned depression into an aesthetic. It blurred the line between genuine self-expression and performance.

This whole push-and-pull dynamic also played out in the way people curated their identities online. As Byron et al., (2019, p. 2246) explain, even in supposedly free and unfiltered spaces like Tumblr, certain norms always emerge​. People were crafting their own personas through carefully chosen images, quotes, and blog themes, but they were still following an unspoken rulebook.

Final thoughts

Today, Gen Z is attempting to reclaim that balance, by recreating Tumblr’s unpolished aesthetics on TikTok while navigating a vastly different digital landscape. In a way, this nostalgia is an act of rebellion against the hyper-curated, brand-saturated digital spaces we’ve grown used to. The irony, of course, is that Tumblr’s once-anonymous culture is now mediated through platforms that prioritize personal branding. Yet the fact that users are reviving this era suggests a persistent desire for a public sphere where self-expression isn’t dictated by corporate algorithms.

References:

@reme. (2025). everything is embarrassing. TikTok. https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSM8fg1Qf/

Byron, P., Robards, B., Hanckel, B., Vivienne, S., & Churchill, B. (2019). “Hey, I’m Having These Experiences”: Tumblr Use and Young People’s Queer (Dis)connections. International Journal of Communication, 13, 2242. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338593649_Hey_I

Çela, E. (2015). Social Media as a New Form of Public Sphere. European Journal of Social Sciences Education and Research, 4(1), 195. https://doi.org/10.26417/ejser.v4i1.p195-200

Dahlberg, L. (2007). The Internet, deliberative democracy, and power: Radicalizing the public sphere. International Journal of Media & Cultural Politics, 3(1), 52. https://doi.org/10.1386/macp.3.1.47_1

Goldberg, A. (2022, February 2). What the Return of 2014 Tumblr Means For Body Image. Teen Vogue. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/what-the-return-of-2014-tumblr-means-for-body-image

Mahammed, N., Klouche, B., Saidi, I., Khaldi, M., & Fahsi, M. (2023). Bio-inspired algorithms for effective social media profile authenticity verification (p. 1). https://ceur-ws.org/Vol-3694/paper13.pdf

Navlakha, M. (2021, October 26). TikTok is reviving the 2014 Tumblr-era aesthetic. Mashable SEA | Latest Entertainment & Trending . https://sea.mashable.com/life/18022/tiktok-is-reviving-the-2014-tumblr-era-aesthetic

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2022). “Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive. Mass Communication and Society, 26(6), 5–6. https://doi.org/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442

Robards, B., & Byron, P. (2017, May 29). There’s something queer about Tumblr. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/theres-something-queer-about-tumblr-73520

Warner, M. (2021). Publics and Counterpublics. Zone Book. https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv1qgnqj8

Yin, H. (2024). From Virality to Engagement: Examining the Transformative Impact of Social Media, Short Video Platforms, and Live Streaming on Information Dissemination and Audience Behavior in the Digital Age. Advances in Social Behavior Research, 14(1), 10–14. https://doi.org/10.54254/2753-7102/2024.18644

[ausetkmt]

TUMBLR HAS MORE BOTS THAN USERS

In 2024, Tumblr, a once-thriving hub for creative expression and niche communities, found itself grappling with an unprecedented surge in bot activity and scams. The platform, known for its vibrant mix of fandoms, artists, and bloggers, became a prime target for automated accounts and fraudulent schemes, disrupting the user experience and sparking widespread concern among its loyal user base.

The rise in bot activity on Tumblr can be traced back to several key factors. Firstly, the platform's relatively open registration process made it an easy target for automated scripts designed to create fake accounts en masse. These bots typically engage in following users, liking posts, and reblogging content to appear legitimate. However, their primary objective often involves disseminating spam links, phishing attempts, or even spreading malware.

One of the most noticeable impacts of this bot surge has been the inundation of fake follower notifications. Many Tumblr users reported a significant increase in new followers, only to discover that these accounts exhibited telltale signs of automation. Profile pictures were often generic or non-existent, bios were sparse or nonsensical, and the accounts rarely posted original content. Instead, they engaged in repetitive reblogging of posts from other accounts, creating a facade of activity.

The motivations behind these bots vary. Some are designed to drive traffic to external websites, often of dubious or malicious nature. These sites can range from fraudulent online stores to phishing pages that attempt to steal users' personal information. Other bots aim to manipulate engagement metrics, inflating the appearance of popularity for certain posts or accounts. This can distort the organic reach and visibility of content, undermining the authentic interactions that Tumblr users cherish.

In response to the escalating bot crisis, Tumblr implemented a series of measures aimed at curbing automated activity. Enhanced CAPTCHA challenges during account creation and suspicious activity detection algorithms were among the first lines of defense. Additionally, the platform's moderation team ramped up efforts to swiftly identify and remove bot accounts. However, the sheer volume of bots meant that these measures often felt like a game of whack-a-mole, with new bots continually appearing to replace those that were removed.

The surge in bot activity also had a ripple effect on user trust and safety. Scams became increasingly prevalent, with bots frequently sending direct messages containing phishing links or fraudulent offers. Unsuspecting users who clicked on these links risked compromising their accounts or falling victim to identity theft. The presence of these malicious actors eroded the sense of community that Tumblr had long fostered, leaving users wary of interactions with unfamiliar accounts.

Despite the challenges, the Tumblr community has shown resilience in the face of the bot invasion. Users have banded together to share tips on identifying and reporting bots, while also advocating for stronger platform security measures. Some have even created browser extensions and scripts to help filter out bot accounts from their notifications and interactions.

Tumblr's bot problem is emblematic of a broader issue facing many social media platforms in the digital age. As automated technology becomes more sophisticated, the battle between bots and platform security measures is likely to intensify. For Tumblr, the key to preserving its unique cultural space will lie in continually evolving its defenses and maintaining open lines of communication with its user base.

Ultimately, the fight against bots and scams is an ongoing effort that requires collaboration between platform administrators and users alike. While 2024 has been a challenging year for Tumblr, the lessons learned and the steps taken to combat the bot surge will undoubtedly shape the future of the platform and its community.

[the-doggy-diaries]

"you must sign up to continue" "turn on notifications to get the latest updates" "we strongly recommend two-factor authentication" "your password requires at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, one special character, and must be at least ten characters" "would you like to sync contacts to your account?" "your current password expires in 13 days please create a new one" PLEASE IM SOBBING IM ON THE FLOOR SOBBING AND SHAKEING I CANT DO IT ANYMOARE

[aktechworld]

Building a Mobile-First CRM: UX Considerations for Developers

As teams become increasingly mobile and remote, CRMs must function seamlessly on smartphones and tablets. A mobile-first CRM isn’t just a responsive design — it’s a rethinking of how users interact with features in real-time, on the go.

Here are key UX considerations developers should prioritize when building mobile-first CRM solutions:

1. Simplified Navigation

Use a bottom-tab or collapsible hamburger menu for easy one-hand use

Prioritize the most-used features on the home screen

Limit user interactions to 2–3 taps to access critical tasks

Avoid overloading the interface with too many options

2. Offline Access and Sync

Allow users to access records even without internet connectivity

Auto-sync changes once the device goes online

Use local caching for smooth experience during field operations

Maintain data accuracy across devices

3. Touch-Optimized Interactions

Design larger touch targets for forms, buttons, and menus

Use swipe gestures for actions like delete, archive, or assign

Minimize typing by offering dropdowns, toggles, and voice input

Focus on finger-friendly UI patterns over mouse-based ones

4. Performance and Speed

Optimize loading times with lazy loading and minimal animation

Compress images and minimize API payloads

Use skeleton loaders to improve perceived speed

Reduce background processes that drain battery

5. Context-Aware Functionality

Trigger location-based reminders or check-ins for sales reps

Show recently accessed contacts or tasks upon app launch

Personalize dashboards based on time of day or past activity

Custom CRM apps can dynamically adapt to user context

6. Data Entry Efficiency

Pre-fill forms with known user data

Add barcode/QR code scanning for quick product or ticket lookup

Use camera access for attachments and visual records

Minimize scrolling with accordion or segmented layouts

7. Notifications and Alerts

Send real-time push notifications for leads, meetings, and updates

Group notifications logically to avoid spamming users

Allow users to customize alert preferences within settings

Deliver actionable alerts with quick action buttons

8. Security on Mobile Devices

Require biometric or PIN login on app launch

Encrypt stored data and use secure authentication APIs

Set auto-logout for idle sessions

Mobile CRM security must match or exceed desktop-grade protection

[joshinglis123]

Navigate the New Rules of ZATCA e-Invoicing Phase 2

The digital shift in Saudi Arabia’s tax landscape is picking up speed. At the center of it all is ZATCA e-Invoicing Phase 2—a mandatory evolution for VAT-registered businesses that brings more structure, security, and real-time integration to how invoices are issued and reported.

If you’ve already adjusted to Phase 1, you’re halfway there. But Phase 2 introduces new technical and operational changes that require deeper preparation. The good news? With the right understanding, this shift can actually help streamline your business and improve your reporting accuracy.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know—clearly, simply, and without the technical overwhelm.

What Is ZATCA e-Invoicing Phase 2?

To recap, ZATCA stands for the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority in Saudi Arabia. It oversees tax compliance in the Kingdom and is driving the movement toward electronic invoicing through a phased approach.

The Two Phases at a Glance:

Phase 1 (Generation Phase): Started in December 2021, requiring businesses to issue digital (structured XML) invoices using compliant systems.

Phase 2 (Integration Phase): Began in January 2023, and requires companies to integrate their invoicing systems directly with ZATCA for invoice clearance or reporting.

This second phase is a big leap toward real-time transparency and anti-fraud efforts, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of building a smart, digital economy.

Why Does Phase 2 Matter?

ZATCA isn’t just ticking boxes—it’s building a national infrastructure where tax-related transactions are instant, auditable, and harder to manipulate. For businesses, this means more accountability but also potential benefits.

Benefits include:

Reduced manual work and paperwork

More accurate tax reporting

Easier audits and compliance checks

Stronger business credibility

Less risk of invoice rejection or disputes

Who Must Comply (and When)?

ZATCA isn’t pushing everyone into Phase 2 overnight. Instead, it’s rolling out compliance in waves, based on annual revenue.

Here's how it’s working:

Wave 1: Companies earning over SAR 3 billion (Started Jan 1, 2023)

Wave 2: Businesses making over SAR 500 million (Started July 1, 2023)

Future Waves: Will gradually include businesses with lower revenue thresholds

If you haven’t been notified yet, don’t relax too much. ZATCA gives companies a 6-month window to prepare after they're selected—so it’s best to be ready early.

What Does Compliance Look Like?

So, what exactly do you need to change in Phase 2? It's more than just creating digital invoices—now your system must be capable of live interaction with ZATCA’s platform, FATOORA.

Main Requirements:

System Integration: Your invoicing software must connect to ZATCA’s API.

XML Format: Invoices must follow a specific structured format.

Digital Signatures: Mandatory to prove invoice authenticity.

UUID and Cryptographic Stamps: Each invoice must have a unique identifier and be digitally stamped.

QR Codes: Required especially for B2C invoices.

Invoice Clearance or Reporting:

B2B invoices (Standard): Must be cleared in real time before being sent to the buyer.

B2C invoices (Simplified): Must be reported within 24 hours after being issued.

How to Prepare for ZATCA e-Invoicing Phase 2

Don’t wait for a formal notification to get started. The earlier you prepare, the smoother the transition will be.

1. Assess Your Current Invoicing System

Ask yourself:

Can my system issue XML invoices?

Is it capable of integrating with external APIs?

Does it support digital stamping and signing?

If not, it’s time to either upgrade your system or migrate to a ZATCA-certified solution.

2. Choose the Right E-Invoicing Partner

Many local and international providers now offer ZATCA-compliant invoicing tools. Look for:

Local support and Arabic language interface

Experience with previous Phase 2 implementations

Ongoing updates to stay compliant with future changes

3. Test in ZATCA’s Sandbox

Before going live, ZATCA provides a sandbox environment for testing your setup. Use this opportunity to:

Validate invoice formats

Test real-time API responses

Simulate your daily invoicing process

4. Train Your Staff

Ensure everyone involved understands what’s changing. This includes:

Accountants and finance officers

Sales and billing teams

IT and software teams

Create a simple internal workflow that covers:

Who issues the invoice

How it gets cleared or reported

What happens if it’s rejected

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Transitioning to ZATCA e-Invoicing Phase 2 isn’t difficult—but there are a few traps businesses often fall into:

Waiting too long: 6 months isn’t much time if system changes are required.

Relying on outdated software: Non-compliant systems can cause major delays.

Ignoring sandbox testing: It’s your safety net—use it.

Overcomplicating the process: Keep workflows simple and efficient.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

ZATCA has teeth. If you’re selected for Phase 2 and fail to comply by the deadline, you may face:

Financial penalties

Suspension of invoicing ability

Legal consequences

Reputation damage with clients and partners

This is not a soft suggestion—it’s a mandatory requirement with real implications.

The Upside of Compliance

Yes, it’s mandatory. Yes, it takes some effort. But it’s not all downside. Many businesses that have adopted Phase 2 early are already seeing internal benefits:

Faster approvals and reduced invoice disputes

Cleaner, more accurate records

Improved VAT recovery processes

Enhanced data visibility for forecasting and planning

The more digital your systems, the better equipped you are for long-term growth in Saudi Arabia's evolving business landscape.

Final Words: Don’t Just Comply—Adapt and Thrive

ZATCA e-invoicing phase 2 isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about future-proofing your business. The better your systems are today, the easier it will be to scale, compete, and thrive in a digital-first economy.

Start early. Get the right tools. Educate your team. And treat this not as a burden—but as a stepping stone toward smarter operations and greater compliance confidence.

Key Takeaways:

Phase 2 is live and being rolled out in waves—check if your business qualifies.

It requires full system integration with ZATCA via APIs.

Real-time clearance and structured XML formats are now essential.

Early preparation and testing are the best ways to avoid stress and penalties.

The right software partner can make all the difference.

[udonlawyers]

Thailand Permanent Residency

Thailand's permanent residency (PR) framework originates from the 1927 Alien Registration Act, with major reforms occurring in:

1950 Immigration Act (established modern categories)

1979 Immigration Act (current statutory basis)

2008 Nationality Act amendments (tightened naturalization pathways)

1.2 Jurisdictional Authorities

Primary Oversight: Ministry of Interior (Section 37 Immigration Act)

Implementation: Immigration Bureau (Division 1, Section 3)

Adjudication: Special Committee chaired by Permanent Secretary for Interior

1.3 Relevant International Obligations

While Thailand maintains strict immigration controls, certain bilateral agreements influence PR considerations:

ASEAN agreements on skilled labor mobility

US-Thai Treaty of Amity (limited PR implications)

Japan-Thai Economic Partnership (special professional categories)

2. Eligibility Matrix

2.2 Qualitative Assessments

Character Evaluation:

Police clearance from all countries of residence

Neighborhood certification (conduct verification)

Employer/associate testimonials

Integration Metrics:

Thai language proficiency (CEFR A1 minimum)

Cultural knowledge exam (80% pass mark)

Community participation evidence

3. Procedural Architecture

3.1 Document Preparation Protocol

Core Documentation:

Visa History: Certified copies of all visas + entry stamps

Financial Evidence:

Bank statements (6 months, certified)

Tax records (RD.90 forms)

Investment certificates (BOI/SEC approved)

Supporting Materials:

Property Documents: Chanote + household registration

Employment Verification:

Work permits (all versions)

Social fund records

Company financials (for business owners)

4. Financial and Tax Considerations

4.1 Cost Structure Analysis

Official Fees:

Application fee: THB 7,600

Approval fee: THB 191,400

Alien book: THB 800 (annual)

Re-entry permit: THB 3,800 (single), THB 9,800 (multiple)

Unofficial Costs:

Document procurement: THB 15,000-50,000

Legal representation: THB 100,000-500,000

Expediting services: Market rate THB 200,000+

4.2 Tax Implications

Pre-PR: Only Thai-sourced income taxable

Post-PR: Worldwide income potentially taxable (if remitted)

Wealth Tax: None currently, but property transfer taxes apply

5. Rights and Privileges

5.2 Occupational Restrictions

Registered Profession Requirement: Must work in field specified at application

Business Ownership: Permitted but requires MOI notification

Government Employment: Prohibited without special approval

6. Judicial and Administrative Review

6.1 Appeal Process

Rejection Appeals: 30 days to file with Immigration Commission

Judicial Review: Available at Administrative Court

Success Rates: <15% for appeals, <5% for judicial review

6.2 PR Revocation

Grounds include:

Criminal conviction (1+ year sentence)

Tax evasion findings

Extended overseas absence (5+ years)

National security concerns

7. Strategic Application Approaches

7.1 Category Optimization

Employment Track: Ideal for corporate executives (minimum THB 150k salary preferred)

Investment Route: Best for property developers (BOI projects favored)

Family Path: Most reliable for long-term married couples (10+ years marriage ideal)

7.2 Document Enhancement Strategies

Tax Augmentation: Voluntary additional tax payments to demonstrate commitment

Community Engagement: Documented volunteer work with registered charities

Language Certification: Official CU-TFL test scores preferred over immigration exam

8. Comparative Regional Analysis

8.2 Global Benchmarks

Processing Time: Thailand (3-5 yrs) vs Canada (1.5 yrs)

Cost: Thailand (~6K)vsUK( 6K)vsUK( 3K)

Success Rate: Thailand (8%) vs Australia (25%)

9. Emerging Trends and Reforms

9.1 Digital Transformation

E-Application Pilot: Limited testing in Bangkok

Blockchain Verification: For document authentication

Automated Background Checks: Integration with INTERPOL databases

9.2 Policy Shifts

Talent-Centric Quotas: Increasing STEM professional allocations

Retirement PR Pathway: Under consideration for high-net-worth retirees

Dual Citizenship Tolerance: Parliamentary study underway

10. Practical Challenges and Solutions

10.1 Common Obstacles

Document Procurement: Especially for older visa records

Bureaucratic Delays: Particularly at verification stage

Exam Preparation: Lack of standardized study materials

10.2 Mitigation Strategies

Early Retention: Engage immigration lawyer at least 2 years pre-application

Parallel Processing: Initiate document requests simultaneously

Mock Examinations: Utilize private language schools for test prep

11. Longitudinal Case Studies

11.1 Successful Applications

Tech Executive: Approved in 3.5 years via employment track

THB 250k monthly salary

Certified Thai language proficiency

BOI-company sponsorship

Investor: Approved in 4 years via property route

THB 25M Bangkok condo portfolio

Additional THB 5M government bonds

Documented charity contributions

11.2 Rejection Analysis

Common Factors:

Inconsistent tax payments (78% of failed cases)

Language test failures (62%)

Suspicious financial patterns (45%)

12. Future Outlook

12.1 Projected Reforms

Points-Based System: Under consideration (2026 target)

Premium Processing: THB 500k+ for expedited review

Regional PR Options: Special economic zone programs

12.2 Demographic Impacts

Current PR holder demographics:

Chinese: 32%

Japanese: 18%

Western: 22%

Other Asian: 28%

13. Conclusion: Strategic Imperatives

Thailand's PR system remains: ✔ Highly exclusive (0.03% approval rate) ✔ Process-intensive (1000+ document pages typical) ✔ Discretionary in nature (despite codified rules)

Critical success factors:

Early preparation (3-5 year horizon)

Comprehensive documentation

Professional guidance

Financial commitment

The program continues evolving toward:

Greater transparency in decision-making

Enhanced digital infrastructure

Strategic alignment with economic development goals

Prospective applicants should monitor:

Annual quota announcements (December)

Ministerial regulation changes

Judicial rulings on PR-related cases

[cindylouwho-2]

RECENT ECOMMERCE NEWS (INCLUDING ETSY), LATE JUNE 2024

Welcome to my latest summary of Etsy and other ecommerce news, relevant for small and microbusinesses online!

Get these updates plus my website blog posts via email: http://bit.ly/CindyLouWho2Blog Get all of the most timely updates plus exclusive content by supporting my Patreon: patreon.com/CindyLouWho2

TOP NEWS & ARTICLES 

Etsy has yet again changed how processing times work for some countries, and this time, they’ve opted everyone into working on every national holiday. [post by me on LinkedIn, with screenshots] Many people are happy they can officially opt out of working on some days, but not so happy Etsy opted them in. The next day, Etsy clarified that this is currently only available for Canada and the US, and is only for national holidays, not regional or provincial ones. 

The old Etsy listing form disappeared as promised on June 25, and the new one is still a mess [post by me on LinkedIn]. Etsy claims to have fixed numerous issues with the new listing form, including manual translations, bulk editing, and sharing to Pattern. No word on the numerous pricing issues that have affected non-US sellers in particular through the domestic pricing tool, and that have apparently changed both variations and shipping prices for US sellers. The latest new listing form fix is the inability to save drafts, although it doesn’t seem to be working for everyone. 

USPS seems to have reused its tracking numbers early recently, with widespread reports of labels created June 18 and later showing as already being delivered in April or May. I’ve updated that linked Patreon post with info on how to get Etsy to correct their own records, so that seller protection and Star Seller status are not affected. 

ETSY NEWS 

Wondering if your images meet Etsy’s minimum size requirements? I did a video for you [on Patreon] so you can easily check for yourself. 

Etsy is still pushing shop loans through YouLend, “up to two times your monthly revenue.” Thanks to Michele from Artologica for the screenshot of the dashboard notification, and some of what you see once you click it:

and a link to the Etsy program at YouLend. Please read the terms carefully, as they get repaid through your future sales. It appears to be US-sellers only. 

There’s a new “Made for You” page with a lot of links to various features for buyers, but I don’t see it linked anywhere on the desktop version of the site. I also don’t really see the point, but maybe we’ll have to wait and see how they use it. 

Apologies for missing this one, but sellers in Turkey must now use “ShipEntegra” to mail orders, unless they already use another service. In effect, this means all new shops in Turkey are required to sign up and only ship orders through ShipEntegra, as of June 3. 

Apparently the “Buy More and Save” badge Etsy applied to some listings that already had multiple quantity discounts is just a test [item 2] per Etsy.

ECOMMERCE NEWS (minus social media)

General

Facebook appears to be removing links to EcommerceBytes on its platforms. 

Amazon

Amazon's "Subscribe & Save" feature will be available for products that are not Fulfilled By Amazon items, as of June 27. 

Amazon's Prime Day 2024 is July 16-17th. 

“Ad Relevance” is Amazon’s proposed solution to the end of ad cookies; it has AI at its core. 

North American Amazon orders will stop using plastic air pillows by the end of the year. 

Amazon is facing another lawsuit on copying successful sellers’ products and manipulating the Buy Box, this time in the UK. 

eBay

As of July 1, eBay will be charging most of its sellers more for Express Payouts: $2 each time instead of 1.5% of the total. 

eBay is now charging buyers of luxury wallets and handbags an optional $40 for authentication, for items between $200-$499.99. Items $500 and up are still authenticated for free. 

The eBay Summer 2024 Seller Update included new tools and renamed programs, but some of them had already been announced. 

If you are using the eBay seller app, watch for draft listings disappearing. 

Shopify

Businesses selling through Shopify can now apply to sell on Target Plus, a third-party marketplace that currently has around 1200 sellers. 

Shopify now has a chatbot for site owners, called Sidekick, but it is currently only available to English stores in North America. 

Walmart

Walmart+ Week started June 17th, almost a month before Amazon’s Prime Day. 

All Other Marketplaces

Just a few months after ending selling fees, Mercari is laying off a substantial portion of its US-based workers. It’s also still looking for new sellers, offering credits that can be spent on the site for opening a new shop and inviting friends. 

Payment Processing

Apple Pay Later is being phased out in favour of “Affirm”, a third-party Buy Now Pay Later app that will be available in more countries than Apple’s own product. 

Shipping

USPS hopes to change its non-standard package surcharges by region, charging more when the package travels further. 

[sarkariresultdude]

Air Force Recruitment Results: Process, Selection, and Next Steps

The Air Force recruitment process is a noticeably competitive and rigorous choice gadget designed to identify the maximum appropriate candidates for various roles. With thousands of applicants each yr, best the first-rate and most succesful individuals are selected to serve. The statement of recruitment effects is a essential section for aspirants, figuring out whether or not they've successfully made it to the subsequent degree or want to prepare for future opportunities. In this text, we can explore the Air Force recruitment outcomes, how the selection manner works, and what applicants must do after receiving their effects.

How to download Air Force recruitment result PDF

Understanding the Air Force Recruitment Process

The recruitment manner for the Air Force is systematic and involves a couple of ranges to make certain that most effective the maximum succesful applicants are selected. The number one steps consist of:

Notification and Application - The Air Force releases recruitment notifications thru authentic channels, detailing eligibility standards, available positions, and crucial dates. Aspiring applicants need to cautiously evaluate these information earlier than filing their packages.

Written Examination - Candidates who meet the eligibility standards are required to take a written exam. This examination checks diverse topics including popular understanding, mathematics, reasoning, and English language abilties.

Physical Fitness Test (PFT) - Those who qualify for the written examination move directly to the physical fitness assessment. The PFT includes running, push-ups, sit down-ups, and different bodily patience exams to determine the candidate’s physical capability.

Medical Examination - Candidates who pass the health test undergo a radical clinical exam to ensure they meet the required health standards.

Interview and Personality Test - Some recruitment approaches encompass a non-public interview or a mental evaluation to assess the candidate’s personality, management qualities, and decision-making skills.

Final Merit List and Results Announcement - After all the assessments, a very last advantage listing is prepared based totally on candidates' standard performance. The results are then formally introduced at the Air Force recruitment portal and different legal platforms.

How to Check the Air Force Recruitment Results

Once the consequences are announced, applicants can test their fame thru the subsequent methods:

Official Website - The consequences are posted on the professional Air Force recruitment website. Candidates can log in the usage of their credentials to check their results.

SMS or Email Notifications - In some instances, applicants obtain end result notifications thru SMS or electronic mail.

Local Recruitment Centers - Recruitment facilities or targeted Air Force offices may additionally offer effects for applicants who prefer offline techniques.

Newspapers and Employment News - Some recruitment effects are published in newspapers and employment bulletins.

Understanding the Selection Criteria

The selection procedure for the Air Force is primarily based on a mixture of things, which includes:

Performance inside the Written Exam - High rankings inside the written examination significantly growth a candidate’s possibilities of choice.

Physical Fitness Standards - Meeting and exceeding the specified bodily fitness requirements is essential.

Medical Examination Clearance - Candidates must be in exceptional fitness, with out a underlying scientific conditions that might hinder their performance.

Interview and Psychological Assessment - If applicable, the interview and mental evaluation play a key position in the final choice.

Final Merit List Ranking - The cumulative performance throughout all degrees determines a candidate’s position on the advantage list.

What to Do After Checking the Recruitment Results?

For Selected Candidates

If you have been selected, congratulations! Here are the subsequent steps:

Download and Print the Call Letter - Selected candidates receive a name letter with info on similarly training and becoming a member of procedures.

Prepare for Training - The Air Force training is rigorous, so bodily and mental guidance is critical.

Complete Documentation - Ensure all required documents, along with clinical reports, identification evidence, and educational certificates, are prepared.

Report on the Specified Date - Candidates need to record to the exact Air Force training center as per the commands of their call letter.

For Candidates Who Didn’t Qualify

Not being selected can be disappointing, however it’s not the cease of the street. Here’s what you can do:

Analyze Performance - Identify areas of weakness and paintings on improving them.

Prepare for the Next Opportunity - Many applicants succeed in subsequent tries with better coaching.

Seek Guidance - Consider training or mentorship to beautify your practise.

Stay Updated - Keep tune of future recruitment notifications and eligibility standards to use once more.