#coffee network marketing

[pagesandpixelsamy]

Tuesday 💛☕️🌻

Morning networking event

Park walk

Solo office day

[csuitebitches]

How To Make Full Use of Networking Events

Networking events and conferences are great because you get to meet and learn from experts but also connect with peers. I recently attended one and I wanted to share things I wish I had done before and what I learned.

1. Define an Objective

You have to determine why exactly you want to go to the event. Are you looking for a career change? A job? Advice on how to be better at your current job? How to tackle some issues in your start up? Networking? Make a list of the reasons.

2. Research

You need to research the speakers extensively. Go over their Wikipedias, LinkedIns and other social medias. Read their company websites from top to bottom. If they’ve released a book, take a look at the summary and read the reviews. Read some of their published articles.

Take this time to prepare at least 3 questions per speaker. Try to make at unique and interesting as possible, don’t ask the usual generic ones.

3. Business Cards

Definitely carry business cards. Make sure that your email, LinkedIn is mentioned clearly. Even if you work at a different company, that doesn’t matter- show your job title on the business card. Better yet, ask your HR if they can give you business cards as you would be promoting their company through your event. If you’re a student, I’d recommend you make a portfolio website of your internships/ project/ past work/ volunteer work/ hobbies/ interests.

4. Actually Talking

During the event, don’t be shy to ask questions. It doesn’t matter whether the rest of the audience thinks they’re stupid. You have spent your money to come there for your gain. Make full use of it. Ask questions. Meet the speaker after the event. Thank them for the insight, introduce yourself, ask them questions related to your objective of coming to the conference. Exchange business cards.

5. Utilising Coffee Breaks

Coffee and lunch breaks are a great way to talk to people. You may feel shy or awkward to talk to new people, but there’s very high chances that they feel the same way. You can start off by asking someone how they heard about the event, what they thought of the speaker, or pass a remark on the question they asked the speaker. Keep in mind that if the event has multiple speakers, there could be a chance that you’re talking to a speaker, even if you don’t recognise them… so be on your best behaviour.

6. Questions

Ask questions that are beneficial to you. During my conference, we had a women-leaders panel. An audience member asked the speakers how they divided their work between family and work. The speakers looked visibly annoyed at the question - because how generic is that?

Ask questions that could help you grow. If you’re in marketing, ask about their tried and tested marketing strategies. If you’re an early stage founder, ask them how they sourced their VC. If you’re struggling with time management, ask the speakers how they manage. Ask the questions for YOUR own benefit.

You can ask difficult questions but make sure you do it respectfully and tactfully. Best to start with a compliment and then ease into the question.

7. Dressing

Business casual, unless mentioned otherwise. What this means: blazer/ jackets/ trousers/ pencil skirts/ shirt/ co-ord sets/ no sneakers.

It doesn’t matter what other people wear. The way you present yourself is your brand. It also shows the respect you have for the other person - you respect them enough to not come shabbily dressed.

[carlos-in-glasses]

Thank you beautiful @heartstringsduet for the tag! 🩷

With chapter 3 of Where All This Love Comes From up on ao3 - I'm sharing a snippet from the upcoming chapter 4, within which Carlos and TK encounter Gabriel and Andrea at the 2022 Fall Festival...

Gabriel beckons Carlos. They step away from the crowd, leaving the vibrant network of market stalls and crossing onto the grass, which is green and springy underfoot now the rains have returned after the scorch of summer.

The city feels perfect today. If Carlos hadn’t blundered ahead and [redacted] yesterday, he knows that he, his parents and his fiancé would have rushed to greet each other, delighted. They’d be chattily heading off somewhere for coffee.

Instead, right now, Carlos is standing on tiptoe on a knife edge, and he's trying to smile through it.

“I’m guessing you haven’t told TK about what you got up to yesterday?” Gabriel says, guessing correctly of course, with his usual bloodhound tenacity.

Open tag and tags below!

@alrightbuckaroo @bonheur-cafe @basilsunrise @catanisspicy @carlos-tk @chicgeekgirl89 @cold-blooded-jelly-doughnut @eclectic-sassycoweyes @freneticfloetry @goodways @im-overstimulated-and-im-sad @jesuisici33 @lemonlyman-dotcom @ladytessa74 @liminalmemories21 @lightningboltreader @louis-ii-reyes-strand @mikibwrites @noxsoulmate @never-blooms @orchidscript @paperstorm @reyesstrand @rosedavid @rmd-writes @sugdenlovesdingle @strandnreyes @sanjuwrites @three-drink-amy @thisbuildinghasfeelings @wandering-night19 @welcometololaland @inkweedandlizards @whatsintheboxmh @fitzherbertssmolder @redshirt2 @herefortarlos @theghostofashton @spaghett-onaplate @inflarescent - if you want to share/haven't already! No pressure ever!

❤️ 🩷 🧡 💛 💚 💙 🩵 💜

[sunshinesmebdy]

Moon in Virgo: Tidy Up Your Biz and Harvest Financial Abundance

Astrologers, rejoice! Business gurus, unite! Because under the meticulous gaze of the Moon in Virgo, it's time to blend cosmic wisdom with practical strategy. Get ready for a potent mix of grounded energy, keen analysis, and a sprinkle of earthy magic ready to boost your business and finances.

Virgo's Virgo-ness: Picture a spotless spreadsheet, a perfectly balanced budget, and a to-do list so organized it whispers sweet satisfaction. That's Virgo's domain. When the Moon dances through this earth sign, it brings a laser focus on details, a knack for efficiency, and an urge to declutter both your physical and financial spaces.

Business Benefits:

Sharpened Skills: Hone your expertise, take that online course, or finally master that new software. Virgo's energy fuels learning and skill development, making you a powerhouse of knowledge and competence.

Channel your inner Hermione Granger under the Virgo Moon! Devour knowledge like polyjuice potion, mastering that new software with flick-of-the-wand ease. Whether it's an online course on astrological forecasting or the intricacies of blockchain technology, Virgo's studious energy makes you a sponge for information, transforming you into a confident, competence-wielding powerhouse ready to tackle any business challenge.

Streamlined Operations: Virgo loves a well-oiled machine. Use this lunar phase to audit your business processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement systems that save time and resources.

Don your efficiency hat, because under the meticulous Virgo Moon, streamlining your business becomes a cosmically ordained quest. Scrutinize processes like a celestial accountant, unearthing time-sucking bottlenecks and banishing them with automated spells (aka, handy new systems). Watch as email chains unfurl into streamlined communication channels, meetings morph into laser-focused action sessions, and your once-chaotic workflow hums like a perfectly tuned engine, freeing up precious time and resources for your entrepreneurial magic to truly shine.

Networking with Purpose: Quality over quantity is Virgo's motto. Connect with potential clients or collaborators who share your values and expertise. Think strategic partnerships, not random coffee chats.

Forget the business card bingo of generic gatherings – Virgo's discerning Moon demands quality connections. Seek out collaborators and clients who mirror your values and expertise, like kindred spirits drawn together by constellations of shared passion. Think chess match, not cocktail party. Craft targeted pitches that resonate with their specific needs, and cultivate strategic partnerships that feel like cosmically ordained alliances. This intentional networking isn't about collecting contacts, it's about igniting mutually beneficial collaborations that propel your business towards the stars.

Marketing Magic: Craft targeted campaigns that speak directly to your ideal customer's needs. Virgo's analytical prowess helps you understand your audience and deliver messaging that resonates.

Under the analytical gaze of the Virgo Moon, ditch the shotgun marketing blasts and unleash laser-focused campaigns that whisper sweet nothings to your ideal customer's soul. Virgo's eagle eye pinpoints their deepest desires and pain points, transforming you into a messaging maestro. Craft content that speaks their language, addresses their specific struggles, and showcases your solutions like the missing puzzle piece to their perfect life. Let go of generic pitches and embrace storytelling that resonates with their values, because under this lunar influence, targeted marketing isn't just effective, it's downright magical.

Financial Fortunes:

Budgeting Bliss: Break out the spreadsheets and get granular. Categorize expenses, track income, and create a budget that feels secure and sustainable. Virgo loves a balanced bottom line.

Spreadsheets sing and budgets balance under the Virgo Moon! Unleash your inner accounting alchemist and transform financial chaos into crystal-clear clarity. Categorize expenses with the precision of a cosmic librarian, track every penny like a moonbeam, and craft a budget that feels not like a restrictive cage, but a beautifully organized, secure haven for your financial future. Virgo craves equilibrium, so find that sweet spot where income and outgoings waltz in perfect harmony, leaving you feeling abundant and empowered, the maestro of your own financial orchestra.

Debt Disposal: Tackle outstanding debts with renewed determination. Negotiate better terms, make extra payments, and experience the liberation of financial freedom.

Ditch the debt demon and embrace the warrior spirit under the Virgo Moon! Channel your inner debt disposal dragon, breathing fire upon outstanding balances with renewed determination. Hone your negotiation skills like a celestial diplomat, securing lower interest rates and crafting repayment plans that fit your budget like a cosmic glove. Make extra payments with the fervor of a moonbeam illuminating a dark cave, watching those numbers shrink faster than a vampire in sunlight. Embrace the sweet liberation of financial freedom, feeling the weight of debt lift like a cosmic spell dissolving, leaving you empowered and ready to conquer your financial Everest.

Savvy Investments: Research, compare, analyze – Virgo's energy is perfect for making informed investment decisions. Seek advice from trusted professionals and prioritize long-term stability over short-term gains.

Transform into a celestial stockbroker under the Virgo Moon! Put on your research goggles and analyze potential investments like a cosmic detective, comparing, contrasting, and sniffing out hidden risks. Consult trusted financial oracles for guidance, but ultimately, let your own Virgo-honed discernment be your compass. Prioritize long-term stability over fleeting trends, building a portfolio that grows like a well-tended celestial garden, not a gambler's dice roll. Embrace the slow and steady path, for under Virgo's meticulous gaze, informed investments blossom into financial freedom, one calculated decision at a time.

Unexpected Windfalls: Keep an eye out for unexpected opportunities to increase your income. Virgo favors those who put in the work, so your dedication could be rewarded with a bonus, a new client, or a lucky windfall.

Keep your antennae tuned to cosmic whispers under the Virgo Moon, for fortune often favors the prepared! Your dedication and sharpened skills could attract unexpected boons like a bonus shimmering out of thin air, a new client drawn by your newfound expertise, or a windfall landing softly as a celestial feather in your lap. Remember, Virgo rewards hard work, so keep hustling, honing, and learning, and trust that the universe may just surprise you with a bonus chapter in your financial story.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the earthy magic of Virgo! Surround yourself with green spaces, incorporate crystals like citrine and jade into your workspace, and practice grounding exercises to channel the Moon's practical energy.

So, there you have it! The Moon in Virgo is your invitation to tidy up your biz, fine-tune your finances, and reap the rewards of your focused efforts. Remember, success is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, celebrate the small wins, and trust that under Virgo's meticulous guidance, your business and finances will shine.

Now go forth and conquer, astrologically savvy entrepreneurs! Your financial stars are aligned.

[zoesblogsposts]

o 625 words to know in your target language o

There is a really interesting blog called "Fluent Forever" that aids foreign language learners in tricks, tips and techniques to guide them to achieving fluency "quickly" and efficiently. One of the tricks is to learn these 625 vocab words in your target language, that way you have a basis to start delving into grammar with ease as you can understand a lot of vocab right off the bat. Plus this list of words are common across the world and will aid you in whatever language you are learning. Here is the list in thematic order

• Animal: dog, cat, fish, bird, cow, pig, mouse, horse, wing, animal

• Transportation: train, plane, car, truck, bicycle, bus, boat, ship, tire, gasoline, engine, (train) ticket, transportation

• Location: city, house, apartment, street/road, airport, train station, bridge hotel, restaurant, farm, court, school, office, room, town, university, club, bar, park, camp, store/shop, theater, library, hospital, church, market, country (USA,

France, etc.), building, ground, space (outer space), bank, location

• Clothing: hat, dress, suit, skirt, shirt, T-shirt, pants, shoes, pocket, coat, stain, clothing

• Color: red, green, blue (light/dark), yellow, brown, pink, orange, black, white, gray, color

• People: son, daughter, mother, father, parent (= mother/father), baby, man, woman, brother, sister, family, grandfather, grandmother, husband, wife, king, queen, president, neighbor, boy, girl, child (= boy/girl), adult (= man/woman), human (# animal), friend (Add a friend's name), victim, player, fan, crowd, person

• Job: Teacher, student, lawyer, doctor, patient, waiter, secretary, priest, police, army, soldier, artist, author, manager, reporter, actor, job

• Society: religion, heaven, hell, death, medicine, money, dollar, bill, marriage, wedding, team, race (ethnicity), sex (the act), sex (gender), murder, prison, technology, energy, war, peace, attack, election, magazine, newspaper, poison, gun, sport, race (sport), exercise, ball, game, price, contract, drug, sign, science, God

• Art. band, song, instrument (musical), music, movie, art

• Beverages: coffee, tea, wine, beer, juice, water, milk, beverage

• Food: egg, cheese, bread, soup, cake, chicken, pork, beef, apple, banana orange, lemon, corn, rice, oil, seed, knife, spoon, fork, plate, cup, breakfast, lunch, dinner, sugar, salt, bottle, food

• Home: table, chair, bed, dream, window, door, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, pencil, pen, photograph, soap, book, page, key, paint, letter, note, wall, paper, floor, ceiling, roof, pool, lock, telephone, garden, yard, needle, bag, box, gift, card, ring, tool

• Electronics: clock, lamp, fan, cell phone, network, computer, program (computer), laptop, screen, camera, television, radio

• Body: head, neck, face, beard, hair, eye, mouth, lip, nose, tooth, ear, tear (drop), tongue, back, toe, finger, foot, hand, leg, arm, shoulder, heart, blood, brain, knee, sweat, disease, bone, voice, skin, body

• Nature: sea, ocean, river, mountain, rain, snow, tree, sun, moon, world, Earth, forest, sky, plant, wind, soil/earth, flower, valley, root, lake, star, grass, leaf, air, sand, beach, wave, fire, ice, island, hill, heat, nature

• Materials: glass, metal, plastic, wood, stone, diamond, clay, dust, gold, copper, silver, material

• Math/Measurements: meter, centimeter, kilogram, inch, foot, pound, half, circle, square, temperature, date, weight, edge, corner

• Misc Nouns: map, dot, consonant, vowel, light, sound, yes, no, piece, pain, injury, hole, image, pattern, noun, verb, adjective

• Directions: top, bottom, side, front, back, outside, inside, up, down, left, right, straight, north, south, east, west, direction

• Seasons: Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall, season

• Numbers: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 21, 22, 30, 31, 32, 40, 41, 42, 50, 51, 52, 60, 61, 62, 70, 71, 72, 80, 81, 82, 90, 91, 92, 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 1000, 1001, 10000, 100000, million, billion, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, number

• Months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

• Days of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

• Time: year, month, week, day, hour, minute, second, morning, afternoon, evening, night, time

• Verbs: work, play, walk, run, drive, fly, swim, go, stop, follow, think, speak/say, eat, drink, kill, die, smile, laugh, cry, buy, pay, sell, shoot(a gun), learn, jump, smell, hear (a sound), listen (music), taste, touch, see (a bird), watch (TV), kiss, burn, melt, dig, explode, sit, stand, love, pass by, cut, fight, lie down, dance, sleep, wake up, sing, count, marry, pray, win, lose, mix/stir, bend, wash, cook, open, close, write, call, turn, build, teach, grow, draw, feed, catch, throw, clean, find, fall, push, pull, carry, break, wear, hang, shake, sign, beat, lift

• Adjectives: long, short (long), tall, short (vs tall), wide, narrow, big/large, small/little, slow, fast, hot, cold, warm, cool, new, old (new), young, old (young), weak, dead, alive, heavy, light (heavy), dark, light (dark), nuclear, famous

[femmefatalevibe]

How to survive having a job that you don't like? (Sadly. It's not the vibe. But quitting is not an option)

Hi love! I empathize with you on this one. Spending your entire day and mental energy on tasks you dread doing (and need to execute well) can be overwhelmingly draining. I'm hoping that this job only takes up 5 days of your week! Here are my best tips:

Keep Your "Why" Top of Mind: Even if a job doesn't align with your interests and passions or is in a bad working environment, you have to focus on the short-term purpose the job provides. Relish in having a steady paycheck to give you food to eat and a roof over your head. While long-term you deserve to find more purpose in your work, having a semblance of financial security will always top having to constantly worry about where your next meal is coming from – even if you hate every moment of being on the clock.

Plan Ahead: Mentally work through the following day ahead of time. Plan the tasks, meetings, and logistics right when you're ending your work day. This framework allows you to overcome the mental blocks and dread before you can go into decompress mode, so you can just wake up and go through the motions the next day. Taking the emotional aspect out of the daily work you hate is the simplest way to avoid burnout (at least in the short term).

Systemize Your Days (When Possible): Creating systems for different tasks or even your entire day can help you be more productive and lighten your mental load. This practice can help you to get your dreaded work done in less time while allowing you to feel less drained at the end of your shift. It's a win-win strategy. Create email templates you save for different types of messages (client-facing, different types of projects, scheduling meetings, presentation notes, etc.), have a folder organizing your different projects, program different Excel formats, and have outlines of decks saved – almost like a pre-made template that's actually useful (and potentially unique).

Focus On Skill Building Over Purpose: Consider the transferable skills you're acquiring while enduring this position – even if they don't pertain to your desired industry or role. Some of these universally-helpful transferable skills include writing a killer email, building a convincing case or admirable deck, learning how to speak to clients or stakeholders with confidence and grace, team-building and collaboration, organization, interpersonal communication, or simply prolonging your attention span. Reflect and dive deep to consider all the life lessons you can leverage later on by holding down this occupation.

Find Ways To Network Outside of Work Hours: Follow & connect with colleagues and influential figures in your industry on social media. Thoughtfully engage with the content they share. Ask about treating them to coffee for an informational interview. Go out to industry-related events, conferences, etc., and make sure to connect with those you met on LinkedIn the next day with a personalized connection message. Connect two of your mutual connections whenever possible. Allow karma to work in your favor.

Lurk, Research, & Study To Optimize Your Job Search: Set aside 20-30 minutes a day to search LinkedIn, job boards, social media (Twitter, Instagram), etc. to see potential next opportunities and evaluate the current market, trends, and most in-demand skillsets within your field/industry. Always tailor your applications and messages to mutual connections or hiring managers when applying to new roles. Be aware of your desired role/industry is evolving. Upskill whenever possible to increase your market value.

Incorporate Simple Pleasures Into Your Days: Make your favorite coffee every morning, have a go-to playlist that improves your mood to listen to before work, incorporate your favorite healthy meals into your week, find a workout you enjoy to add into your day either before or after work, indulge in a favorite book or TV show after work as a "reward" for making it through the day. Practice self-care – do a face mask or specialty hair treatment on a weeknight. Invest in an at-home massage tool or luxurious loungewear to wear in the evenings.

Indulge In A Creative Outlet: Find an opportunity for growth and self-expression outside of a workplace setting. Write, read, paint, draw, cook, bake, take a dance class, learn a new language, how to play a new instrument, or about interior design. Create Pinterest boards, poems, new playlists, and new recipes to celebrate your desire for variety in your otherwise mundane life.

Have Plans To Look Forward To Every Week: Whether it's hanging out with friends, going to a museum, watching a movie, or taking a walk along your favorite local route. Ensure you enjoy how you spend your days off. Don't waste time worrying about a dead-end job when you're off the clock. Spending your leisure time on your own terms. Take this time to do what you love.

Romanticize The Lifestyle It Provides: When motivation or your morale hits a low point, take time for gratitude and focus on the resources this job allows you to integrate into your life – whether that's a roof over your head, the opportunity to eat meals you enjoy, wear outfits you love, or even just provide you some sort of daily routine.

Consider your current job as a chapter in your life and career. Acquire the lessons, skills, relationships, and resources you can as preparation for the next stage in your ever-evolving journey.

Hope this helps xx

[museum-spaces]

Happy solar new year nerds. I have been having feelings [tm] about the passage of time and the last 12 months. I am sat on my couch in the Greater Vancouver Area with my 5 month old chihuahua and my almost 3 year old husky-mutt under blankets because my heat is out, and I am... happy.

It has been ages since I have felt this... effortlessly content. Ianto is currently begging for special food [I do not know what Special food is in his mind, he won't tell me. just that the food that is out is not what he's after] and Klaus is curled up with a hot water bottle and a denta stick and I have a coffee. Life is good.

So, this post is a bit of a sappy retrospective on the last 12 months. Feel free to skip if not what you're after and, of course, absolutely no ill will towards people who didn't have a good 2023. I get it. just getting through to 2024 is waaaay more than enough to call it your year.

First quarter; started the year off bad. No water, no floor, no contract for 2023 at my then-current job at Camel Town.

Highlights; sleepover at my friend's house [because my water was frozen], and a trip to the local christmas market. It was a nice day out with Johannes.

Second Quarter; got a reduced contract, fewer hours and less money, but enough to float till I got another job. Got quite a few interviews including the one for my current job1 found a place to live in the GVA [turned out to be a scam], and moved down here. Also learned about Klaus' oops existence and started to plan for him to come home.

Highlights; made another friend1 started my job and am doing very well I think. got money, did meetings, did some networking. did good.

Third quarter; brought Klaus home, continued to make friends, continued to do good work.

Highlight; met Myth1 they spent the weekend at my place and they are very very sweet.

Fourth quarter; settled into my life enough to realize I need to move, but its not life or death, its just a bit more expensive than ideal to live here. Klaus finished his vaccines and started day care - he is shy but not nervous according to the day care folk.

Highlight; accidentally got myself a boyfriend? we went to the Vancouver Winter Market and I went swimming. It was very fun. My meds were reduced from 50mg to 30mg over 2 months. With luck, I'll go down to 20 in January or February.

[electricopolis-net]

S03E02: Sparker Reborn (Part 2)

2. The Electric Festival

"It'll be great," Bob gushed, his eyes sparkling. "I really appreciate all your help, you guys."

"Aw, it's no problem!" Margie laughed. The three of them--Bob, Margie and Jam--were sitting in Jam's studio, sharing some celebratory drinks. "I'm just glad you don't hate me anymore."

"I never hated you," Bob sighed. "I was just...hating myself, mostly. I just feel terrible for everything I've done..."

"You apologized enough, you don't have to do it again," Jam said, smiling a rare smile. "But I'm with Margie here. It's good to see you back to your old self, Bob."

"In more ways than one." Margie closed her notebook, sighing. "To be honest, I'm glad you're gonna leave the company. It feels more and more like Dad is...I'm not sure. But something seems to be making him really testy, lately. I have the feeling something bad is going to happen."

"I'm just lucky he gave me permission to put on the Electric Festival in the first place. I really thought he wasn't going to." Bob took a sip from a glass he was holding, then placed it back on the nearby coffee table. "He didn't seem all that happy to see me."

"Well, you did kind of...cause a headache for him," Jam said through nervously gritted teeth. "With the whole attempted murder thing."

"Gee, you know, I feel just awful about that," Bob lamented, shaking his head. "That's part of why I wanna do this. Pay my debts, you know. This city's been good to me. Better than it has any right to be. So I wanna give something back, instead of just taking."

Jam tilted his head. "You know, I'm kind of impressed," he remarked. "I didn't think you'd ever be so...introspective about this."

"Well, it's the start of a whole new me!" Bob exclaimed, putting a hand over his heart. "No more exploitation. From now on, I'm going to do the best I can to change Electricopolis!"

"Well, you might have a hard time with that," Margie offered. "The city's been around a long time, and so has Top Tier. I'd be surprised if you were able to make a dent in the television network market share in your first year."

"I know. But it's better than just sitting around feeling sorry for myself. And besides," Bob said, "isn't it better to try than not to try?"

Margie lifted up her drink. "Hear, hear."

Jam nodded. "Well, you know we've got your back. To be honest, I'm surprised I didn't come up with the idea myself," he remarked. "A festival for the arts and crafts scene in Electricopolis is a really cool idea."

"I'd be lying if I said I weren't thinking of you when I came up with it," Bob laughed. "I was like, 'What would Jam do in this kind of situation?'"

"Really?" Jam blinked behind his glasses. "I'm surprised. I guess all my lecturing really did get through your skull."

The three of them laughed, together.

---

"We'll aim for the end of the year, okay?" Bob suggested. "That should give us more than enough time to get the word out about the Festival and the Electric Park."

"Sounds good," Margie said. "I'll fund it and arrange the spaces for the artists' booths."

"I'll liaison with the artists and help spread the word," Jam offered. "I think you're gonna have a hell of a turnout."

"And I'll present!" Bob said. "And manage. And I have a few designs for some of the floats already," he continued, "and I have a few artists I'm reaching out to for the rest..."

"Careful," Jam said gently yet sternly. "You don't want to spread yourself too thin. You gotta learn to moderate yourself, instead of doing an all-or-nothing kind of thing."

Bob sighed. "You're right. I'm just feeling so..." He shook his hands out, as if drying them. "So energized! Honestly, I never imagined I could get this kind of jolt from anything other than frying my brains out!"

The morning news--well, what passed for morning in Electricopolis--interviewed Bob near the end of the year. Wrapped up in a scarf and hat, Bob gestured to some of the artisans' booths as he talked into the microphone.

"We have folks from every corner of the city," he said loudly, talking over the din of the crowd. "Over here are some carpenters from down on 1-2, best work you've ever seen! And of course, we have goldsmiths from right here in the top tier, too. I wanted to arrange it so that it wasn't just folks from their own parts of the town clumped up together. This way, everyone can mingle and maybe learn something new about each other."

"That's very ambitious," said the anchor. "So when can we attend the Electric Festival?"

"It'll be held right before the New Year!" Bob explained. "From December 29th to the 31st. We're going to kick it off with a pop-up light show with all kinds of floats and machines!"

"Wow!" said the other presenter, oohing and aahing. "An Electric Park, is that right?"

"That's right," Bob responded, nodding and grinning. "It'll be a spectacle like nobody in Electricopolis has ever seen!"

---

The Electric Festival was shaping up to be a roaring success. Bob, Margie and Jam worked around the clock to process and set up every artisan and craftsperson who wanted a space, and the sheer breadth and depth of the works provided was stunning, especially to Bob, who, until he met Alice Lang, never met a piece of art he felt he actually understood. Paintings, embroidery, sculptures, even seemingly ordinary pieces like ironwork chairs and tables seemed to contain a startling new form of life. It was as if he had never actually thought about the way the world worked before. In turn, that seemed to ignite some creative part of his brain, something he hadn't truly exercised since he had been a young performer on the streets of the top tier.

He took a meticulous, almost obsessive interest in the design and operation of the Electric Park. And, Bob Sparker still being Bob Sparker, too much was never enough: more bulbs, more neon, more moving joints and multicolored lights began to take shape on the floats, bit by bit by bit.

"I dunno if the dragon is going to work out," Margie said, squinting up at the still-in-progress machine. "That whole ‘breathing sparks' thing might be kind of, you know, a fire hazard?"

"A fire hazard? I guess you're right," Bob sighed. "I guess we could go with something else. Maybe an arrangement of bulbs that change color?"

"We're already using over 500,000 bulbs," Jam pointed out. "How about you go in a different direction? We have a ton of leftover fabric. Why not use some of the reds and yellows, cut ‘em up, put a fan in the head of the dragon."

"Hey, that's great!" Bob exclaimed, looping an arm around Jam's shoulders and giving him an enthusiastic side-hug. "See, this is going to be incredible!"

"Well, let's not get ahead of ourselves," Jam stammered, adjusting his glasses. "There's still something we haven't decided on yet."

"What's that?"

"How are we actually going to power all these machines?"

"Oh, Mr. King signed off on all that a while ago," Bob said, waving a hand. "I figured we would just plug ‘em in. I warned him it would be a little heavy on the power bill."

Margie looked over at him. Her brow seemed to furrow for a moment, and then she shrugged. "Well, if Dad says it's okay, I guess it's okay."

Bob looked in the mirror, turning his face this way and that. There were a few new lines there, a few new wrinkles that brought a slightly craggy quality to his face; but more than that, there was a glow, a warmth that bloomed underneath the skin. He smiled.

There was a polite knock at his door. "Hey, Margie just called," Jam said politely. "She's been called away by her dad for some reason or another. She says she'll meet up with us once it's taken care of. You wanna get going?"

"Sure, sure." Bob turned away from the mirror and finished tying his necktie. It was a muted green satin tie, bought for him by his mother when he had first signed on with Zap! Entertainment. He always wore it when he was nervous--he considered it a good luck charm. "I'll be done in just a second."

He smoothed it down against his chest, admiring himself in the mirror. "All right," he whispered to his reflection. "It's showtime."

---

"Ladies and gentlemen," Bob pronounced, "thank you for coming out in this cold weather! Before we start, I just want to say a couple words about the Electric Festival..."

He nodded over to his companion. "It wouldn't have been possible without this guy! Jam arranged contact with almost all the vendors and artisans here at the Festival. A big round of applause, ladies and gents!"

The crowd applauded vigorously. Jam bowed his head down, trying to hide a smile.

"I'd also like to thank Margaret King for funding to put on the Festival in the first place," Bob continued. "She couldn't be here right away, sadly, but I'm sure she'll turn up. And now, without further ado, let's kick this thing off!"

Bob tucked the microphone under his arm and knelt down to grab the two large electrical plugs--one male, one female--that lay on the ground in front of him. "Enjoy the Electric Festival!" he exclaimed, and shoved the plugs together.

The Electric Park lit up in a million different lights, drawing a gasp and astonished applause from the crowd. The floats began to move back and forth, the colored fabric waving. Bob and Jam exchanged relieved grins.

"I guess that's that," Jam sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. "A job well done, right?"

"That's right," Bob agreed, clapping him on the shoulder with his free hand. "A job well--"

The lights flickered, and then there was a vmmm sound as the floats powered down and dimmed completely. There was a startled silence among the crowd.

Bob pulled the plugs apart. He pushed them back together. Again. Nothing. He fumbled with the microphone, bringing it back up to his face. "One second, folks," he stammered. "I'm just as confused as you are."

Jam tapped him on the shoulder, and he turned. "My cell phone's got no reception,"he said. "I think the cell towers went dark too."

"The cell towers? Then the whole city must have lost power," Bob replied. Sure enough, in the distance, the bright lights of the storefronts were going black.

There was a loud murmur that rippled through the crowd. "What is this?"asked someone near the front. "Is this part of the festival?"

Bob motioned for them to settle down. "It looks like there's been a power outage," he explained. "It's not just us. I'm sure if we all stay calm--"

He was cut off by the wail of sirens. A crowd of police cars pulled up to the entrance to the park. A megaphone crackled. "Bob Sparker?" announced one of the cops through the megaphone. "We'd like you to come with us."

[luxe-pauvre]

Every person offers immediate social signifiers with their clothing. Sometimes this is obvious: clothing covered in logos with a certain designer’s name, outfits comprised of attention grabbing colors or loud patterns, garments and uniforms associated with particularly career paths. Even the person picking their smelly sweatpants off the floor and hastily pairing them with a wrinkled t-shirt is offering a social signifier, either I do not care what other people think of my clothing or I want people to think that I do not care what people think of my clothing. It would be ridiculous and ahistorical to claim that there was a time in modern fashion where clothing didn’t function as a form of social exchange or that social identity has ever been extricable from consumption. But our contemporary understanding of identity, by way of these “niche aesthetics”, are not social identities later commodified. They begin with consumption, any sort of cultural or philosophical unification is a latter addition. A single, branded item becomes the basis for a group identity; one does not need to own this item, simple aspire towards what it represents and place themselves in a network of like-minded consumers. The structures of social media heavily reenforce commodity-based niche aesthetics. Certainly, influencers, celebrities, and socialites have always influenced people into purchasing things or adopting specific trends and styles. What is unique to our contemporary media landscape is the role in which algorithms play in building our consumer identities: Tik Tok’s main feature is its endless, algorithmically generated For You page. Instagram has continually increased its focus on suggested content, both in the Explore page and on its main feed. Specific objects become units of data, like a geotag or hashtag, which can be analysed and promoted based on a user’s previous interaction history. Without any human involvement, a social media algorithm can notice that some users who enjoy content about female-driven coming-of-age movies will be receptive to fashion videos that feature iced coffee in glass mason jars and platform oxford leather shoes. The algorithm then promotes content that synthesizes the most trend-friendly images, ideas, and products. In this way, contemporary social media does not reenforce niche identity groupings but actively creates them, selecting the exact products and commodities that can be grouped together to target and captivate specific markets.

charlie, Personal Style Is Dead And The Algorithm Killed It

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

New SpaceTime out Friday....

SpaceTime 20240202 Series 27 Episode 15

Could atmospheric pressure changes be driving Martian methane pulses

New research shows that atmospheric pressure fluctuations that pull gases up from underground could be responsible for releasing subsurface methane into the Martian atmosphere.

Can red dwarf stars host planets with life after all?

A team of scientists are proposing that rocky, Earth-like planets orbiting some of our nearest neighbouring stars could host life.

The Axiom Mission 3 to the International Space Station

SpaceX has launched another private manned mission to the International Space Station for Axiom Space.

The Science Report

People with strong obsessive-compulsive disorder traits have an 82% higher risk of death

Claims the Meg was slimmer than thought.

North Korea claims it’s just tested an underwater nuclear weapon system.

Skeptics guide to the coffee survey

SpaceTime covers the latest news in astronomy & space sciences.

The show is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Apple Podcasts (itunes), Stitcher, Google Podcast, Pocketcasts, SoundCloud, Bitez.com, YouTube, your favourite podcast download provider, and from www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

SpaceTime is also broadcast through the National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio and on both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

SpaceTime daily news blog: http://spacetimewithstuartgary.tumblr.com/

SpaceTime facebook: www.facebook.com/spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime Instagram @spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime twitter feed @stuartgary

SpaceTime YouTube: @SpaceTimewithStuartGary

SpaceTime -- A brief history

SpaceTime is Australia’s most popular and respected astronomy and space science news program – averaging over two million downloads every year. We’re also number five in the United States.  The show reports on the latest stories and discoveries making news in astronomy, space flight, and science.  SpaceTime features weekly interviews with leading Australian scientists about their research.  The show began life in 1995 as ‘StarStuff’ on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) NewsRadio network.  Award winning investigative reporter Stuart Gary created the program during more than fifteen years as NewsRadio’s evening anchor and Science Editor.  Gary’s always loved science. He studied astronomy at university and was invited to undertake a PHD in astrophysics, but instead focused on his career in journalism and radio broadcasting. He worked as an announcer and music DJ in commercial radio, before becoming a journalist and eventually joining ABC News and Current Affairs. Later, Gary became part of the team that set up ABC NewsRadio and was one of its first presenters. When asked to put his science background to use, Gary developed StarStuff which he wrote, produced and hosted, consistently achieving 9 per cent of the national Australian radio audience based on the ABC’s Nielsen ratings survey figures for the five major Australian metro markets: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.  The StarStuff podcast was published on line by ABC Science -- achieving over 1.3 million downloads annually.  However, after some 20 years, the show finally wrapped up in December 2015 following ABC funding cuts, and a redirection of available finances to increase sports and horse racing coverage.  Rather than continue with the ABC, Gary resigned so that he could keep the show going independently.  StarStuff was rebranded as “SpaceTime”, with the first episode being broadcast in February 2016.  Over the years, SpaceTime has grown, more than doubling its former ABC audience numbers and expanding to include new segments such as the Science Report -- which provides a wrap of general science news, weekly skeptical science features, special reports looking at the latest computer and technology news, and Skywatch – which provides a monthly guide to the night skies. The show is published three times weekly (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday) and available from the United States National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio, and through both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

[netherworldpost]

A general shop idea I'm happy if you institute as well

One of the things I have been tinkering with, and I'm finally settling on, is a monthly zine that pulls the essays and comics and photos etc. I take in a month.

It will essentially be a monthly compilation of the original content I make for social media.

Zines will go out the first week of the month, capturing all the stuff from the previous month, so there isn't a pressure to make stuff specifically for this zine.

"Why not create new stuff?"

Because resources (time/energy/etc.) will be to create new stuff at large -- products, comics, etc.

This is specifically designed to repurpose existing stuff.

The specific point is to connect without adding more work that would derail the creation of stuff.

It's a catch-up. An archive.

An "I get too many emails, not enough physical mail, I want weird ghost mail"

"...so... why would I subscribe to this..."

I, myself, regularly say "Hey I like this comic or thing. Here is a few coins."

It's a take on the $1-3 tip jars, pledges, patreon levels, etc. that are extremely popular to offer, and extremely popular to support.

It's there if you wish to support the content.

It's also there as a way to bypass the multitude of social media platform decays, frustrations, lockouts, etc.

As a person who Makes Things Online and has for 20+ years, I am extremely worried about what the space will look like going forward in the next 20+ years.

Hence! This!!

Hey remember when RSS was far more accessible? Those were fun times.

Hey remember when Reddit wasn't on the verge of...

Hey remember when Twitter wasn't...

(sotto voce) Do you see where I'm going with this?

"How much is it going to cost?"

About 125% the cost of production, so probably $2-3/month. This is not a profit-making vehicle, the extra grease on the wheel is to cover production issues, lost in the mail, etc.

When I have a sale or launching a new thing, a note will be included. "Hey! For the coming month, use code XYZ! We're launching New Thing on This Date too!"

"Couldn't I just follow you on social media and/or subscribe to email and see it for free?"

Yes.

I'm not trying to shift your behavior from one to another.

I want to create a thing should you say "I like you but I'm tired of XYZ social network and/or I get too many emails."

I want to create a thing should you say "I'd rather read about calling myself an Addams cousin while drinking coffee in the park."

This is not anti-social media.

This is not "people are on their phones too much."

This is not anti- anything, really.

I want to create something should you say "I want more mail. I want more physical mail and I want it to come in a bright envelope decorated weirdly."

It is my professional estimation that online communities are going to continue to fracture. The following is my personal rambling opinion:

It is going to get harder, and harder, and harder, as a person, to keep track of the artists and makers that you are interested in.

It's going to get even harder, and harder, and harder, as a maker, to connect to people who are interested in the stuff you make.

Before social media, you had "marketing," and for awhile, we've had "social media marketing," which is similar but about 100,000 times cheaper.

We are rapidly reaching a point where the majority, possibly the vast majority, of content you see on socials fall into one of two categories:

Created by a large business

Created by a large business but funneled through a special division they created specifically to quietly hide the scale of their operation

This happens right now more often than is comfortable!

And I think it's going to continue to shift that way!

"I'm on board, where do I sign up?"

Until the shop launches, I'm sending out a monthly newsletter. Signup is at netherworldpost.com. This will be among the first projects I launch.

Once said shop launches, I'll continue with the online newsletter, but this will also be available.

I will have an open, public, forever free, never paywalled guide on "This is how I run this with the tiny print shop we built. Here are some ideas if you do not have a tiny print shop."

Thanks!

And feel free to take this idea and make it your own for your whatever sized shop on whatever platform you make things on now and/or the future!

[thebirdandthebee]

Easy As

A Carmen Berzatto Universe

A/N: Thanks for your patiences while I was out of town! This was another request - see below. My request box is still open :)

Vanessa Monaghan is the breath of fresh air that Carmen had been gasping for.

Page 13: Tostones

“You’ll be back before you know it,” Carmen reassured as the taxi driver loaded the suitcase and tote, hugging Vanessa tightly.

“M’gonna miss you,” she mumbled into his chest, her winter coat bundled in his arms.

“I’m gonna miss you, too, baby,” Carmen kissed her cheek, rubbing up and down her back. “I’ll come pick you up at the airport on Sunday,” he reminded. “If you don’t get in the car soon, you’re gonna be late.” Vanessa nodded, taking a step back. “Give me a kiss,” he demanded softly, to which she complied, pressing her lips to his.

“Text you before takeoff,” she promised.

Carmen saw her car off, sighing, before turning back into the building. Heading up the elevator, the apartment felt different with Vanessa gone. Sure, he’d been in there alone plenty of times in the last 10 months, but knowing she was on her way to another state for a whole week wasn’t quite the same.

Vanessa had been asked to speak at a marketing summit in Miami for the week, participating in a keynote tomorrow, Tuesday, and a panel on Friday afternoon. She’d fly back Saturday morning, leaving Carmen on his own the entire week.

They had really hit their stride with timing and at the point in their relationship, when all they wanted to do was be together, it was awful being apart.

The first day went by quickly.

Carmen was busy with work and Vanessa was doing a lot of networking and mingling with young professionals who were clamoring to get an internship in her office.

Every time she changed, she’d send picture of her outfit to Carmen. He looked forward to her updates every day, but especially her pajamas at night, which usually included his boxers or his old Cubs T-shirt.

The second day wasn’t so bad either, there was less texting between the two of them – Vanessa in the thick of keynotes and networking, and Carmen working on The Bear’s fiscal year-end paperwork.

On the morning of Day Three, Vanessa gave Carmen an early-morning FaceTime call.

“Hi Gorgeous,” he greeted, having just returned from the farmer’s market. He was meeting with a few vendors there and snagged a few healthy handfuls of kale to make wedding soup.

“Hi baby,” Vanessa sighed an exhale, her hair in rollers but her makeup all done. She propped her phone up on the bathroom vanity and he watched, enraptured, as she went about taking down her hair in a plush robe.

“How’s Miami?” He asked, leaning over the kitchen island.

“Not as warm as I’d like, but the conference has been good,” she replied. “There’s also this sweet little Cuban coffee shop across from the hotel, but the mom of the owner makes tostones and black beans and rice every morning, you’d just die,” she gushed. “Can you try and make them for me when I come home?” She asked, fluffing up her hair in a way that made her look like his personal 90’s wet dream.

“Yeah, I can try,” he laughed.

“There’s also a stray cat that like lives in the hotel, he’s so sweet,” she sighed. “Should we get a kitty?”

“Ness, you’re allergic,” Carmen reminded her.

“I know, but I could get medicine for it,” she said thoughtfully, carrying her phone over to the main room and propping it up in her closet. Dropping her robe, he eyed her with precision in her black bra and matching thong.

“Hi beautiful,” He murmured, feeling heat at his temples as she held up two dresses against her body.

“Blue or green?” She asked, checking out her options in her reflection of the phone. “Blue,” she decided.

“Blue,” he agreed, though she’d look beautiful in anything. The dressed slipped down the figure of her body like silk and she spent the next few moments adjusting.

“Okay baby, I’m going to take off, I’m meeting a group of college grads for coffee so they can grill me,” she sighed, picking up the phone again and stepping into her heels.

He watched her spritz her perfume across the line of her collarbone and felt a longing tugging at his belly button. Damn, he missed her a lot. He could smell the perfume from Chicago.

“Call me tonight?” He asked, leaning back against the sink and tucking his free hand across his chest into his underarm.

“Of course,” she smiled, pursing her lips in a kiss before ending the call. Looking down he could see he was half-hard in his joggers. At least he had plenty of Vanessa’s outfit photos to get him through the morning.

That night was a different story. The day had gotten away from both of them, and as Carmen was riding the train back toward the apartment, his phone dinged.

He was grateful there was no one sitting next to him when he opened his texts from Vanessa to see a handful of racy shots of her in her bra and panties – some with either one or the other. His favorite was the one of her in his old Cubs shirt – nipples visible through the fabric as she fisted it to cover between her legs, but her bare hips on display.

From: Vanessa

My fingers aren’t as good since I know what yours feel like.

One more jostle from the train and Carmen was going to pop a full boner.

Carmen didn’t want to remind her of the time left apart, so instead of messaging her fuck that conference, come home, he went another angle.

To: Vanessa

You are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen in my life and when you get home I’m going to fuck you absolutely dumb.

Across the country in Miami, Vanessa giggled wildly, feeling like she was back in high school with a crush on the quarterback. But with Carmy, it as more like a crush on the A/V Club President.

Vanessa got through Day Five slowly. The coffee wasn’t helping the way she needed it to and she’d had just enough of fluorescent lighting and young professionals handing her their resumes. She admired their gas, but now, on Thursday, knowing she wasn’t going home until Saturday, she was pretty miserable.

Skipping lunch at the conference, she grabbed a salad at her hotel before flopping on her bed. She knew Carm would be at The Bear in the thick of lunch prep, so she called her Dad and chatted with him for a while instead. The afternoon passed slowly and she flopped on her bed after arriving home after a happy hour that evening.

From: Vanessa

Can you send me some nudies, I miss you.

Carmen shook his head as he checked his phone in the office

To: Vanessa

At work, sorry, miss you too beautiful.

She laughed, knowing full well that he would never send her nudes regardless of whether or not he was at work.

From: Vanessa

Just a little selfie? I want to see your cute face.

Carmen cleared his throat, fixing just a curl or two before snapping a photo of himself at his desk before sending it off.

From: Vanessa

You have all day Saturday off, right?

Carmen didn’t get a chance to reply before another text pinged.

From: Vanessa

We’re gonna need a full day.

Carmen still wasn’t sure how he got so lucky with her.

Vanessa really did try to make the best of her last day in Miami. She went for a run in the morning, grabbed a coffee and tostones from her favorite little spot and took a painstaking amount of time on her hair and makeup. She moderated a panel on the last afternoon and turned down the conference-ending activities to go back to her room, pack and turn in early.

Vanessa’s flight left Miami at 7 a.m. and put her back at Midway by 9 a.m. Carmen was already waiting at baggage claim with a Cuban coffee in his hands when she appeared at carousel 4.

“Carmen,” she breathed, feeling the tightness across her shoulders lax.

“Hi baby,” he greeted, having just enough time to set the two cups down before hugging her tightly. He stroked his hand down her hair and kissed her cheek over and over as she squeezed him. “Kiss me, I missed you,” he commanded softly, to which Vanessa gladly obeyed.

“Missed you more,” she sighed against lips.

“Don’t leave again any time soon,” he advised, slanting his mouth over hers.

“Take me home,” she all but begged.

“I’ll grab your suitcase, you zip up this coat,” he tugged on the zipper of her cropped puffer. The ride back from the airport to the condo felt longer than ever, but just moments after arriving home, Carmen was pinned to the sofa, Vanessa in his lap as she kissed him fervently.

“Is it pathetic that every day I thought about how much I missed you?” She asked, holding the back of his neck in her laced fingers, her thumb running over his Adam’s apple.

“If it is, then I’m equally pathetic,” Carmen said, looking up at her with pure adoration in his eyes.

“I’ve never felt like this about another person,” Vanessa confessed, pressing her hips forward into him. “I wanna be with you all the time,” she leaned into Carmen’s touch as he ran his hand through her hair gently.

“I think for me – it’s you,” he said sincerely.

Vanessa didn’t care they hadn’t been together for a year yet – she agreed with a kiss.

[reliabledragon]

Hi! I’m genuinely curious, why is Seattle a bad place to live? I’ve thought about moving there at one point, until I realized I wouldn’t be able to afford it.

Ah, well, I should probably clarify that I don't think it's, like, an inherently bad place or anything. It was just a really bad fit for me, so being stuck there for several years really sucked. Basically, it boiled down to a few things:

Making Friends: Seattle is so notoriously unfriendly that the "Seattle Freeze" even has its own Wikipedia page. People will be plenty nice to you, but most have no interest in actually becoming friends, and it takes ages to build a social network there.

Lack of Diversity: In this case meaning the cultural sense, not the racial one. (It is racially homogenous as well, but I'm not really qualified to open that can of worms.) Seattle basically does like, three things: extreme outdoor activities, substances, and computer stuff. ("Substances" here meaning things like weed, but also beer, coffee, etc.) So if you want to go skiing every day, climb mountains, smoke weed, drink artisanal beer, play video games, or found a startup, it's a good place for that. However, if you want to do anything else then you are going to be fighting against Seattle every inch of the way.

The Dating Scene: Again, Seattle does some things very well here — it's probably the best dating market in the country if you're poly! But again, the monoculture means that if you're Seattle's kind of person then you're going to have the time of your life, but if you aren't, then you will simply be screwed. And I wasn't, so I spent three years basically unable to find anyone to seriously date. (I will grant that part of this could have been a me problem, but I certainly had far less difficulty both in SF before and NYC after.)

Urban Design: Maybe this is a personal one, but Seattle is in this really awkward middle ground, where it absolutely sucks to have a car in the city, but it also absolutely sucks not to have one. It's my least favorite city in the US that I've ever driven in, but it's also a pretty rotten experience trying to get around town on the bus or (very limited) light rail system. I'd much rather live somewhere with functional public transit, but if that's not possible then I'd at least like my mandatory car usage not to feel like I'm turning the ignition key in a Saw trap.

Distance: Unless your friends and family are in the PNW, you're probably going to want to leave occasionally to see other people, and Seattle is really very far away from everything other than Portland and Vancouver. Perhaps this isn't the biggest issue on this list, but combined with the Seattle Freeze, it can make the city intensely lonely. And combined with the weather, it makes it even harder to get away when the sky starts feeling oppressive in the winter. And speaking of winter...

Climate: This is a big one, and one that I think you can't really understand until you live there. Or at least, I certainly didn't grasp the implications beforehand. Everyone knows Seattle as a "rainy city", but it's one thing to hear about it and another to live it. The thing about Seattle is that it's both accurate to say that it always rains, or to say that it never rains. It's not like most of the country, where you have rainstorms and then times when it isn't raining. No, not in Seattle. In Seattle is drizzles, constantly. From September until June, every time you step outside, it's just... Damp. And cloudy. Once the clouds come in the Fall, you will not see the sun for nine months. The sky is just a bright gray mass hovering oppressively overhead, not dim enough be properly melancholy, not bright enough to be cheerful. It just looms, vaguely too bright to look at, no matter which direction you look. For most of your life in Seattle, you live in hollow light and hollow rain.

Despite all that, I really do think Seattle is a great fit for a lot of people, but it's hard to know if you're one of those people before you move there, and the penalty if you're wrong can be a pretty terrible living experience. My response on that poll was playing along with the "city hate group" thing they were asking about a little bit, but I really did have a very bad time there. It might well be a great fit for you, I know it is for a lot of my friends who live there! I would just advise anyone thinking of moving there to make sure they understand what they're signing up for, because it's easy to get taken in by the aesthetic and not realize what sort of place it is, and what sort of person you need to be to enjoy it.

Thanks for the ask! I'm always happy to talk about cities. :)

[sunshinesmebdy]

The Chatty Moon Takes Charge: Business & Finances Under the Gemini Moon

Mercury’s swift messenger, the Gemini Moon, flits into action, bringing its signature blend of communication, adaptability, and intellectual curiosity to our business and financial endeavors. For some, this can be a period of booming ideas, quick deals, and fruitful networking. But beware, dear entrepreneurs, under the Gemini Moon’s changeable nature, things can shift faster than a Twitter trend. Buckle up and take notes, as we navigate the highs and lows of this lunar phase for your business and finances:

Prospering Under the Silver Tongue:

Communication Confidence: The Gemini Moon empowers clear and persuasive communication, making presentations, negotiations, and sales pitches flow effortlessly. Leverage this energy to connect with new clients, close deals, and strengthen existing partnerships.

Embrace the “Gift of Gab” under the Gemini Moon! This lunar phase imbues you with captivating clarity and persuasive charm, making sales pitches effortless and negotiations dance in your favor. Whether presenting to potential clients, striking deals, or fostering partnerships, tap into this cosmic fluency. Let your words weave magic, connecting hearts and closing deals with the persuasive power of a silver tongue. Seize the opportunity to build bridges and solidify trust, for under the Gemini Moon, communication becomes your secret weapon for business success.

Idea Powerhouse: Your mind buzzes with innovative solutions and marketing strategies. Brainstorm with your team, explore new collaborations, and experiment with unconventional approaches. Remember, the best ideas often appear when you least expect them!

Under the Gemini Moon’s electric influence, your mind becomes a vibrant marketplace of ideas! Innovative solutions and bold marketing strategies sprout like dandelions, urging you to break free from the conventional. Spark brainstorming sessions with your team, explore collaborations beyond your usual circles, and embrace unconventional approaches. Remember, the most ingenious solutions often bloom unexpectedly, so stay open to those “aha!” moments that pop up while sipping coffee or taking a shower. This is your chance to think outside the box and unleash your inner inventor, igniting innovation for your business!

Network Ninja: This is your prime time to connect and expand your professional network. Attend industry events, join online communities, and reach out to potential collaborators. The Gemini Moon favors quick connections and information exchange, so be open and adaptable.

Sharpen your social butterfly wings, for under the Gemini Moon, networking becomes your superpower! Industry events, online communities, and even casual conversations transform into fertile grounds for expanding your professional circle. Don’t be shy — strike up conversations, join discussions, and connect with open-minded individuals. The Gemini Moon favors quick, information-rich interactions, so be adaptable and receptive to unexpected connections. Remember, a casual chat today could spark a fruitful collaboration tomorrow. Seize this lunar window to weave a web of valuable connections and watch your network blossom like a vibrant garden!

Navigating the Gemini Moon’s Fickle Phases:

Scattered Energy: The Gemini Moon’s flitting nature can lead to multitasking mayhem. Prioritize your tasks, set clear deadlines, and avoid jumping from one project to another without finishing anything. Focus on quality over quantity.

While the Gemini Moon fuels your multi-tasking engine, beware of becoming a scattered squirrel hopping from branch to branch! Its flitting nature can lure you into juggling too many projects, leaving them all half-baked. To avoid this productivity purgatory, prioritize ruthlessly. Define clear deadlines for each task, and resist the urge to jump ship at the first shiny new idea. Remember, scattered efforts yield mediocre results. Channel the Moon’s mental agility into focused sprints, conquering one task at a time with laser-sharp efficiency. Quality over quantity — that’s the mantra for navigating this lunar phase without succumbing to multitasking mania!

Impulsive Spending: The chatty Moon loves gadgets and trends, making you susceptible to impulse purchases. Stick to your budget, research before buying, and avoid shiny object syndrome. Remember, long-term financial stability is more valuable than fleeting fads.

Hold onto your wallets, for the silver tongue of the Gemini Moon can seduce you with the latest trends and must-have gadgets. Remember, its chatty nature thrives on novelty, tempting you with impulse purchases that might leave your bank account singing the blues. Don’t let “shiny object syndrome” lure you astray! Stick to your budget like a mantra, research thoroughly before clicking “buy,” and resist the urge to splurge on fleeting fads. Remember, long-term financial stability is infinitely more valuable than momentary thrills. Think of it as an investment in your future success — say “no” to the impulse and “yes” to financial security!

Overpromising, Underdelivering: Enthusiasm is great, but don’t overestimate your abilities under the Gemini Moon’s influence. Be specific about your commitments, manage expectations, and deliver on your promises to maintain trust and credibility.

The Gemini Moon’s energetic spark can fuel your enthusiasm, but be cautious of outpacing your capabilities. Don’t let its fast-talking charm lead to overpromising! Remember, under this lunar influence, it’s easy to underestimate the time and resources needed. Be specific about your commitments, managing expectations realistically. Overestimating your abilities can erode trust and credibility. Delivering on your promises, even if it means scaling back or adjusting timelines, is key to navigating this transit with integrity. Remember, slow and steady wins the race, especially under the ever-shifting influence of the Gemini Moon.

Tips for Taming the Moon’s Mercurial Energy:

Plan, Prioritize, Execute: Before diving into the whirlwind of ideas, create a clear plan of action with defined priorities. Focus on completing one task at a time to avoid the scatterbrained blues.

Before surrendering to the whirlwind of the Gemini Moon’s ideas, channel your inner architect and draft a clear blueprint for action! Define distinct priorities, like pillars holding up your plan. Resist the siren song of multitasking and instead, focus on tackling one project at a time with laser-sharp concentration. Remember, scattered efforts under the Moon’s changeable nature lead to unfinished business and scattered blues. Prioritization becomes your mantra, ensuring each task receives the dedicated attention it deserves. So, grab your pen, map out your priorities, and execute with focused determination — that’s the recipe for success under the ever-shifting lunar tides!

Collaborate & Communicate: Partner with others who can provide balance and different perspectives. Communicate openly and honestly to avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page.

The Gemini Moon thrives on connection, so don’t go it alone! Partner with individuals who offer diverse perspectives, acting as anchors to your whirlwind of ideas. Open and honest communication becomes your bridge, ensuring everyone stays on the same page and misunderstandings don’t derail your progress. Embrace the Moon’s collaborative spirit, leveraging the strengths of your team to tackle challenges from different angles. Remember, two minds (or more!) are better than one, especially under the ever-shifting influence of the Gemini Moon. So, build bridges, foster open dialogue, and watch your projects soar to new heights through the power of collaboration!

Research & Reflect: Don’t let enthusiasm cloud your judgment. Before making important decisions, research thoroughly and take time for introspection. Use the Moon’s analytical side to weigh pros and cons carefully.

Under the Gemini Moon’s intoxicating energy, enthusiasm might mask potential pitfalls. Before diving headfirst into decisions, don’t let excitement overpower reason. Tap into the Moon’s analytical side! Conduct thorough research, examining details and potential challenges with a critical eye. Don’t skip the due diligence — every angle deserves exploration. Take time for introspection, considering your gut feelings and weighing pros and cons carefully. Remember, informed decisions pave the way for success, and under the Gemini Moon, a balanced approach is your key to navigating enthusiasm without compromising wisdom. So, research, reflect, and make choices that empower your future, not just fuel a fleeting impulse.

Remember, dear business owners, the Gemini Moon is a double-edged sword. By harnessing its positive energy while mitigating its pitfalls, you can navigate this transit to propel your business forward and create lasting success. So, put on your thinking cap, sharpen your communication skills, and network like a pro — the universe of opportunities awaits under the silver sheen of the Gemini Moon!

Bonus Tip: For personalized insights, check your own Sun and Moon signs and see how they interact with the transiting Gemini Moon.

[thelesbiandeli]

A Caged Bird Set Free

(Chapter two of three)

(Ao3 link here)

(3336 words)

Unfortunately, it seemed like Circuit escaped the building before either heroes could find him. Scar received a light telling-off from his higher-ups, but nothing too serious. They could never scold their golden child, CuteGuy thinks bitterly to himself. 

Noone has noticed the slight personality shift yet, luckily. The AI has tried his best to stay as perfect as the day he was programmed, but sometimes the odd rude remark or snarky insult has slipped out. Lucky for him, people take it as a joke. Well, why wouldn’t they? It’s not like he could think otherwise anyway.

That’s just one of the messed-up things that he’s noticed now that his mind has been freed. Only now can he notice the ways that The Institute prioritises the neighbourhoods that can afford to fund it, or how some people classed as ‘villains’ started out just using their powers without a licence. And of course there’s the fact that, despite the fact that they’re marketed as equals, CuteGuy was clearly never seen as a person. Even the thought of how he used to call Scar ‘boss’ makes him itch. Because HotGuy was never his boss, was he? No, he was his owner. CuteGuy was just a thing, gifted to a hero for assistance and aesthetics. It’s almost worse now, because he can understand the situation he’s in, and he can’t really escape without being hunted down by The Institute’s state-of-the-art technologies.

Wait.

He is one of those technologies. He can access the whole network, from the locks on the doors to the earpieces the heroes receive commands through during missions. And on top of that, he can access the archives. Every single criminal record, every piece of security footage, every person in the city’s government data. He could probably get into personal data stores if tries.

And just like that, a plan starts to form in his head.

—

After hours spent searching through social records and watching every video of villain fights he can find, CuteGuy has put together a plan. It seems pretty foolproof, from what he can tell, but he’s made sure to set up a backup plan if things go south. Small edits have been made all throughout The Institute's code, just as a way for him to access it if they try to cut him out, a hidden backdoor, if you will. Now he just needs to wait for the perfect opportunity. And that opportunity comes a lot earlier than he expected.

A mission, sending them to fight the very villain who gave him full autonomy. And CuteGuy is practically sparking with anticipation.

HotGuy yells into his earpiece as he leaps across a gap in the rooftops, rolling as he lands.

“CuteGuy! Track Circuit for me, will you?”

A hologram of the AI appears, floating in a casual sitting position. He kicks his feet up onto an invisible coffee table, and grins.

“Nah, I’m good.”

HotGuy almost trips over a chimney pot as he skids to a halt. Never in his time working with the pink-and-white clad sidekick had he said no to him.

“What did you just say?”

“I said ‘I’m good’. I’ll be honest with you, Scar, I’m getting tired of this. It’s always ‘CuteGuy, do this’ or ‘CuteGuy, track that’ or ‘CuteGuy, turn down the speakers’. And what do I get from this? Nada. Nothing. It’s a corrupt system, if you think about it. Not to mention the horrendously screwed up ways that The Institute created intelligence purely to be your accessory. So I believe this is for you.”

HotGuy watches in confusion as the hologram shoves a glitching piece of paper into his chest. He pulls it off, ignoring the fact that it clips through his fingers slightly, and stares down at it. Scrawled in pink glitter gel pen across the page are the words ‘letter of resignation’, and a loopy signature is written across the bottom, accompanied by a small heart. CuteGuy cracks his knuckles, and adjusts his heart-shaped sunglasses.

“Well, I can’t say it was nice working with you, but I’ll be seeing you around, Scar! Good luck!”

And with that, he disappears in a pop of light and a shower of code. HotGuy watches in disbelief, unnoticing of the letter dissolving in his hands, mouth hanging slightly open. This wasn’t meant to happen. How is he meant to explain this to his higher-ups?

—

Mumbo is casually strolling back to his apartment when he feels a buzz from his phone in his coat pocket. He takes a sip of tea from his takeaway cup, and pulls it out, only to frown at the strange text from his housemate.

Etho :D 

Hey dude there’s a guy who says he knows you on our couch

He said you gave him the keys, but I thought we lost the spares?

I don’t want to tell him to get out if he actually knows you, but he also might be a robber or something

Wait hold up I think he might be one of the heroes

Hurry home pleaseeeeee

Mumbo nearly chokes on his tea as he reads through the messages. Void below, he most definitely has not invited a guest over. He down the rest of his nearly cold drink, and takes off running as fast as his lanky legs can carry him.

He nearly crashes into his door as he fumbles with his keys, finally managing to unlock the door and fling it open with as much intimidating energy as his beanpole of a body can fit into it. After a second, he falters as he spots Etho, sitting nervously on the opposite side of the sofa to a very familiar person. 

Said person is casually stretched out and scrolling through something on their phone. Although their outfit is different from the last time he saw them, with them now wearing a cropped pink hoodie and baggy white sweatpants, they are still instantly recognisable. Well, it’s hard not to recognise the slightly transparent form of one of the city's most popular heroes.

CuteGuy glances up from his phone, and grins at Mumbo. 

“Heya Circuit! Or rather, I guess I should call you Mumbo when you’re out of costume, shouldn’t I? Anyway, good to see you!”

Mumbo’s grip on his keys fails, and they fall to the ground with a metallic clatter. Etho glares at him, wide eyed.

“I thought you never told anyone else, dude!”

Before Mumbo can defend himself, CuteGuy waves his hand dismissively.

“Oh, he didn’t tell me, I just figured it out. Good job too, actually, you were one of the hardest villains to find the identity of. It was actually some footage of Shade out of costume handing you food that helped me figure it out.”

Etho fiddles with the hem of his shirt nervously. He has been retired from the villain business for nearly two years now, and he didn’t think many people remembered his brief time as the shadowy antihero. Mumbo looks just as panicked.

“Are you going to be turning us in now?” He reaches up to adjust his tie, “Well, that’s a stupid question. You’re a hero, of course you are.”

If Mumbo didn’t know better, he would say that the hologram looked offended by that statement for a split second. The blonde recovers, and brushes their messy hair out of their eyes.

“Me? A hero? You must have been mistaken, I have no loyalties to those self-absorbed aristocrats. They do no good for this society, honestly. I bet half the villains do what they do because of the heroes, anyway.”

Etho and Mumbo glance at each other in confusion, before Etho sighs and gets up. Holding his hands up in mock surrender, he walks away from the other two, and into his room.

“Nope, not dealing with this. Mumbo, call me when dinner’s ready.”

He shuts the door behind him, leaving the other two in an awkward silence. At least, until CuteGuy buries his head in his hands and rubs his eyes. And for the first time, Mumbo sees the ex-hero look anything but confident. The AI sighs, and slumps slightly.

“Was that too much? I’m still trying to figure out emotions without the background influence of The Institute.”

Mumbo smiles. Yes it’s sad, but it’s also kind of endearing.

“Nah mate, you were just a bit enthusiastic. I don’t think Etho was prepared for that level of energy on a Wednesday afternoon. I think it’s rather nice, though. You’ve hit the nail on the head for both of our reasons to do what we do.”

CuteGuy seems to lighten up a bit, literally. A few energetic pixels fly off him as he sits up a bit straighter and claps his hands.

“Really! Oh, this is great. Now, I have a bargain to make. I do something for you, you do something for me.”

Mumbo frowns, but gestures for him to continue. CuteGuy shuffles around to sit on his hands, and grins excitedly.

“So! You’re a redstone nerd, you made that clear enough on our first meeting. I was wondering if you would like a bit of a challenge.”

“What do you want from me.”

“Aww, don’t be so negative! Anyways, how hard do you think making a prosthetic limb would be?”

“I’ve made them before, now what do you want me to do?”

CuteGuy swallows nervously, excitement bubbling in his eyes, and Mumbo notices that he’s rocking backwards and forwards slightly.

“CouldyoumakemearobotbodysoIcanenactmyrevengeonmycreatorspleaseandthankyou.”

Mumbo blinks slowly, and chuckles.

“You’re going to have to speak slower than that, mate. I could barely hear a word you said.”

CuteGuy sighs, and repeats himself.

“Could you make me a robot body? I want to be able to make the heroes really feel it when I enact my revenge.”

Mumbo raises an eyebrow. This is clearly not the only intention behind this request.

“Really? Well if that’s the case, I can make you a controllable projectile launcher or someth-”

“No!”

Mumbo cocks his head and grins as the AI tries to regain his composure.

“It would have the same effect though. Unless there’s something else you needed it for?”

CuteGuy blushes slightly, and brings his knees up to his chest.

“Well, I, uh, I want to be able to move things. And touch stuff.” He slips his sleeves over his hands and starts fiddling with the drawstring of his sweatpants, “Sc- HotGuy had a cat. He never told me her name, but I watched him play with her. She would sleep on his chest while he was in bed, and rub against his legs when he walked into a room, and I want that. I think it would feel nice. I could feel like a person.”

Mumbo chuckles, genuinely for the first time, not out of concern or fear, and pulls a small notebook out of his trouser pocket.

“I think I can make that happen. Do you have any specific design choices in mind?”

CuteGuy’s eyes light up, and he starts explaining the details of his perfect body, Mumbo furiously scribbling notes to try and keep up with the AI’s exited rambling.

A couple hours into their planning, CuteGuy notices that his new friend has fallen asleep. With a small smile, he gets up and dims the lights of the apartment, before leaning back in a chair by the kitchen table. He shuts his eyes, and lets his mind wander through the vast expanse of the cites code, the closest thing he has to sleeping.

As the clock in the kitchen ticks gently past midnight, Etho strolls into the kitchen, and sighs when he sees his housemate fast asleep.

“So much for dinner, I guess.”

He fishes an instant ramen out of a cabinet, and sets the kettle down on the slowly heating stovetop. He frowns at the AI, glowing slightly pink in the dark room, but his attention is drawn away when the kettle starts to boil. He fills his bowl with boiling water, dunks his noodle in for a few seconds, then takes a bite out of it. With a satisfied smile, he takes his food back into his room, pushing the door shut behind him with his foot.

—

It’s been a month or so after CuteGuy 'disappeared’, and Scar is still trying to figure out why. This sort of sudden behaviour change doesn’t just happen. It had to have been prompted by something. And the villains are his best bet.

So now Scar stands, fully dressed as HotGuy, on the roof of a building overlooking the city. From years of experience, he’s positioned in a way that means he’s ready to leap down at a moment's notice, but the light of the early evening still silhouettes him against the sky dramatically. 

Just below him, on a lower rooftop, there’s two villains moving around. He squints as Circuit gestures wildly, and the person next to him seems to laugh. HotGuy presumes that Circuit’s company is the villain Shade, but these days he can never be sure. The villain hasn’t been seen for years, but he can’t remember anyone else who would wear Shade’s classic black mask on his lower face. 

HotGuy frowns as Shade seems to wave goodbye, and disappears out of the hero’s line of sight. Circuit pulls something out of his pocket, and starts fiddling with it. The perfect time to strike. HotGuy crouches down, and launches himself up into the air, twisting slightly as he plummets down onto the roof below. It’s only as he lands and rolls that he realises that this was slightly suspicious. Circuit’s expectant smile only seems to solidify this.

He hears a whisper of cloth behind him as someone sticks something into the small of his back. HotGuy gasps in pain as a shock of electricity shoots up his spine, but stands his ground, glaring at Circuit. Shade slips into his peripheral vision, tucking a cattle prod into his belt. Circuit grabs the cattle prod back, and Shade sighs, annoyance tainting his breath. The two seem to remember HotGuy’s existence as Circuit clears his throat. 

“Well then, we were wondering when you were going to show up.”

Shade cuts in, putting his hands on his hips.

“Rather rude, isn’t it? Showing up late when you have someone wanting to see you.”

HotGuy narrows his eyes at the two villains.

“What do you mean, someone wanting to see me?”

Shade smiles, and waves a hand dismissively.

“You’ll find out soon. Now, we better be going.”

The two leaps up onto the edge of the roof, Circuit stumbling for a second as one of his feet skids on a patch of moss. He regains his cool, and smiles at the hero, still recovering from his shock.

“Just remember to smile for the cameras!”

The two leap off the edge, and out of HotGuy’s view, leaving the hero to think over the words. He frowns, and mutters quietly to himself.

“Smile for the cameras. What does that even-”

Suddenly, small objects on the corner of almost every building around him start to move. HotGuy shivers as dozens of security cameras turn to face him, their lenses glinting almost like eyes. A cloaked figure steps out of the shadows in front of him, nearly silent if not for the whirring noises that join their every step. In the folds of their outfit, HotGuy can see the glint of what he presumes to be a blade. He stumbles backwards and trips, landing on his ass. The figure grins at him, his eyes glowing an ominous purple, not quite enough to light up his face. 

“Well, Scar, what do you think. Do you like the new look?”

HotGuy’s heart drops as he hears the all-too-familiar singsong voice of none other than-

“CuteGuy.” 

The figure glares at him, and HotGuy clenches his fists nervously. He doesn’t know how, but he’s messed up. They push down their hood, revealing their silver face twisted into a shape of disgust, his eyes glinting off the bridge of his nose.

“I don’t go by that name. I’m not just your accessory anymore, I’m my own person.” CuteGuy takes a few steps forwards, and crouches down so he’s eye-to-eye with the hero, “You can call me The Watcher. I think it’s catchy, don’t you? The perfect name for your nemesis.”

HoyGuy just stares in shock. The Watcher frowns and straightens back up, the pistons in his legs hissing slightly.

“Well, regardless of all that, I think it’s an improvement. And look at you! You’ve finally gotten a proper arch-enemy, and even one that links into your oh so tragic backstory! I bet marketing will be thrilled!” The villain spreads a pair of giant silver wings, stained that haunting shade of magenta at the tips, and gives the brunet a mock salute. “I look forward to working with you, HotGuy!”

And just like that, The Watcher launches himself backwards off the edge of the roof, disappearing into the night. HotGuy just sits on his ass, eyes wide and breathing heavy. Every inhale sounds like it’s being amplified tenfold, and every exhale feels like it’s echoing through the streets.

A bright billboard catches the corner of his eye, and HotGuy pauses for a second. That can’t be right. He runs to the edge of the roof, and looks across the city. His breath is snatched away from him.

Every single one of the giant screens advertising social media and food deals are now displaying him, from every angle, wide eyed and panicking. People on the streets below are either watching the signs in awe, or staring at their phone screens open-mouthed. A couple people look up at him on the roof, and one points at him and yells. One by one, people start pointing cameras at him and chattering excitedly. HotGuy ducks back onto the rooftop and puts his hands over his head. He squeezes his eyes shut, trying to block out the feeling of thousands of eyes staring at him. Watching him.

HotGuy uneasily gets back to his feet, faintly aware of the yelling in his earpiece to get back to The Institute, and draws his bow. His fingers shake as he notches an arrow, and, with none of his usual charisma or bravado, looses it. The projectile hisses through the air, and smashes directly into the eye of the nearest security camera. There are a few faint gasps from the crowd below him, but he blocks it out as he draws his bow again. Camera after camera, he lets the arrows fly, until he’s surrounded by occasional sparks and broken glass glinting in the light of dusk.

After all these years of being a public figure, and he gets freaked out by a couple of stupid cameras. Void, he’s so stupid.

 He sighs, and slings his bow onto his back, trying to ignore his pounding heart. As he hops gracefully off the room, he shudders at the memory of The Watcher’s smile. The same smile that he had seen while cracking jokes over dinner, or when he would ‘accidentally’ trip up during combat practice, trying to make his friend laugh. And those purple eyes were just too similar to the bright blue ones that would wake him up in the mornings. And that playful tone, all too familiar with the way that his sidekick used to tell him that he should be in a fight, a few minutes late on purpose just to see him panic.

Scar’s line of work didn’t leave him room to make many friends, but he and the AI are close. Or at least they were.

HotGuy has to shake his head to get the thoughts out, and doubles his speed, launching over chimney pots and sliding through small puddles until he gets back to The Institute. Almost as soon as he enters the doors to the main building, he is met with one of the directors. The woman frowns at him, and crosses her arms.

“HotGuy. We need to talk to you. Now.”

[femmefatalevibe]

I am currently taking a course to start copywriting/editing as a side gig to my main career. I have the basic writing and grammar skills required, so I am taking the course to familiarize myself with the job itself. That being said, do you have suggestions for how I might market those skills after completing this course to obtain some jobs? I have helped friends and family edit documents forever but I have no paid experience. My coworker suggested Upwork, which I might try, but I am still seeking outside suggestions.

Hi love! I would say to create a portfolio of your work/clips from any projects relevant to your industry from school, helping family/friends, or self-created mockups that are similar to the types of work/projects you want to do for clients. I think it's best to take a global/local approach here.

Online, I would market your services on Upwork/optimize your LinkedIn profile to potential copywriting clients in your niche/industry. Creating a website (even a blog if you have the time/energy) also legitimizes your presence. On a local level, I would pitch your local businesses (like coffee shops, hair salons, restaurants, etc. – depending on your niche, definitely do some research to see if they're hiring) to do some initial projects like social media copywriting or website copywriting for them to get your foot in the door (lower rates tend to be part of the game in the initial stages).

Also, I recommend pitching yourself to publications to do some freelance commerce writing in your niche to gain some free (and also paid even if the rates are low) press coverage for yourself. Friends and family/professional network referrals also are a goldmine if you have any available to work with.

Hope this helps xx