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shotgunsandstars · 7 years

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Q&A chap 93-101

Hold onto your butts

Ch 93

The ‘thanks Xazz, I hate it’ coming out of the reviews from this chapter filled me with so much life okay? I didn’t need to eat for a week because I was sustained solely on your suffering lols.

Everyone crying about why I killed John I’ll let you in on some inside baseball.

Originally Andrew was going to have more of a redemption arc. But then I decided… you know what? Fuck that guy. He doesn’t get one. Just because you feel bad about what you did doesn’t excuse your abuse or earn you a redemption. Also he hadn’t been as present as he needed to be to earn a redemption arc. He was going to be more around for the Atlantis attack and get a good death but… bitch didn’t deserve it. So John took his place and it was rather poignant that John died, the last of Desmond’s biological family he accepted to having, and he’s found by his adopted family, covered in the blood of their covenant. Since the saying is that the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.

Also I knew all of you would cry when I killed John, which was delicious. I cried too okay. I was not immune.

To say he's done enough. Did John mean he's done enough to save the world or enough good and bad in his life? Maybe he's ready to join the rest of his family in death?

He’d done enough killing. He’d done enough saving. He’d done enough to see that the world was going to be okay. He’d finally saved his baby sister and his baby brothers he couldn’t before through Desmond. John is someone from a world that won’t exist in a few hours. He’s enough. He’s done enough.

you said you regret creating Jake now and would rather he had remained Jacob. Is that why you decided to put Malik to sleep for now as part of your storyline with Jacob and Tommy?

No. Not at all. The character acts the way they would act regardless of what could have been. I literally said why Malik decided to go to sleep. Like I literally don’t know how I can make this any clearer.

Though I prefer your Tincture, tbh, where she never sinks into depression and Altair is Des' biological father and they escape the Farm.

While I do also prefer that it also… isn’t good for the story. Desmond does half of this shit because he’s abandoned. Because he has no family. He is constantly seeking validation, family, and love because he was denied those things growing up. Sadly, if those things don’t happen then none of FM happens because Desmond has no drive to go out and seek the validation of being valued and needed and loved by someone else.

@Wren

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Just wondering why you've gotten away from the bird theme in Flocking Movement, Xazz? Every chapter used to be a bird name or something related to avians. Not that I don't like it, just curious.

What??? 95% of the chapters in this story are bird themed. And the rest are themed around flight or the sky. There are like 300 chapters of FM in total, all of them with unique title names. I didn’t want to just resort to calling chapters by bird names exclusively. That’s rather boring. Just these last few chapters haven’t been exclusively tied to birds.

What has been your fave chapter in each Flocking Movement story, Xazz?

My favorite chapter? Hmmmm. That’s an interesting question.

For FM my fave is chapter 24: Seven Ulama. You know, the one where Desmond thinks Altair’s fucking dead. Bird on a Glass Bridge (25) is also very good cause that’s the first time I bring up Duncan and Desmond nearly breaks Jacob’s arm. The entire arc in those chapters is def by fave in the first story.

In 17th I actually really like chapter 1: Yolk. It was very fun to write. But chapters 37+38 were my faves because DesLucy and also you got to see Desmond just SNAP. I’d had those chapters written for months before they were posted XD

For Triad, to literally no one’s surprise, my favorite chapter is 12: Muninn: My Story Isn’t Pleasant; it Tastes of Folly, of Madness and Dream, the Life of all People Who No Longer Want to Lie to Themselves. Which other than I love it for it’s huge and unwieldy title is also all about my favorite sad, pissed off, son; Duncan.

At the time of writing for Terrible Things my favorite chapter is 36: Wishbone. It was verrrry fun to write. I also really enjoyed 57: Mother of Owls andddd 85: The Freer: Rain Goddess. I have a lot of other chapters I really love in Terrible Things but those are my top 3 :D

For Tincture it’s absolutely 100%, chapter 1: For You. I’m pretty sure I teared up writing it. For Eden is also A+

My fave in Legacy… oh boy. There are a bunch I like. 18: The Pyromancer’s Daughter (for obvious reasons). 10: He is the Sunrise, and its counterpart chapter, 14: The Dusk. And 15: You Lean Towards Dispair because I like hurting myself. God I love that one. It chokes me up every time.

Desmond is finally at the doorstep of the Unnamed, so it's time for me to get some final speculation done. I'm positive that whatever he will do will kill him either immediately or induce the beginnings of brain atrophy. The knowledge/power of turning the tide will take its pound of flesh. I have a feeling this will be the end of the immortals as well. Maybe it'll be part of the price that Des has to pay to accomplish everything he wants.

No. I’ve been saying for years that Desmond does not fucking die.

why did Cain never tell Altair about adrenaline Waking up immortals faster?

The last time Cain had a civil conversation with Altair was literally in the 1440s. And even if he did tell Altair at the time there was no way to get Epinephrine until literally 1900 when the compound was isolated and could be synthasized. Which if you remember… Cain was busy rotting in a cell in a Germany Vault. Cain also didn’t have the words to describe to Altair what adrenaline was. He had words to explain how it worked in hado but Altair… doesn’t know hado and other than to talk to Cain in his mother tongue has no use for hado. And then after Altair abandoned Cain in 1446 they rarely had any civil conversations. Mostly it was spitting words and Cain getting under Altair’s skin to get a reaction out of him since he didn’t seem moved by Cain’s requests for Altair to ‘come home’.

is Hawk still using his glass computer he built before the Apocalypse, or did he make a new, updated one after getting access to Demeter's technology and equipment?

Given the equipment Hawk literally builds himself a new computer every time there’s any sort of hardware update. He had the glass computer in 17th because he literally could not get any more advanced than that for the tech available. But now he’s had access to Demeter and things on the Ilythian ships. He’s nearly figured out personal holographic interfaces, which not even proeathans had really figured out. They could make big holographic stuff like the AI but the power and mechanisms required to power them weren’t suitable for small, personal, use. Hawk has absolitely upgraded. Once tech comes back he’s fully ready to replace his eyeballs with mini cybernetic things and when he’s ready to change that too he’ll just kill himself and everything will reset (he’d have the fake eyes removed first cause having his body consume something that large while he’s Under and then replace them would take a long time)

Did John think Kaley's exile would be permanent from the family? That Troy would never get over his pride and forgive her?

He didn’t think Kay’s exile would be permament. He figured Troy would realize he didn’t have a suitable heir and bring Kaley back. But then one of John’s brothers’ children showed signs of having the Sight and it didn’t matter. Troy just wanted an heir, which for him could only be filled with someone like him with the Sight. That was why Kaley’s probably temporary exile turned into a permenant one.

Will [Mary] have a bigger role in teaching future Angels?

Idk. Maybe.

Is he the first true Stadalla to enter an Unnamed?

Desmond is the 17th named stadalla. As in, there have been 16 true stadallas before him. Only one didn’t actually enter the Unnamed but is still regarded as a stadalla. There were also other people who were born to be a stadalla but just… never reached their full potential. What makes a stadalla isn’t actually that rare. It’s just the nature of their psychic ability. Just so few actually realize that they are that sort of powerful psyhic being to go to the Unnamed.

Kaley was just as responsible for preventing unwanted pregnancies as Andrew, so they share blame for Duncan.

Just because Kaley probably made sure Andrew wore a condom doesn’t mean that he didn’t fuck it up. Condoms are easy to sabotogue if you want to and Andrew knew the pretty, politically powerful, Kaley Miles was his ticket to being accepted as an Assassin. Also Kaley probably wasn’t on birth control because of the nature of how and where she lived. Also someone mentioned somewhere (I don’t remember where) that Kaley probably knew how to drive and could just leave Willow Creek to get an abortion herself because she wasn’t a prisoner and lols WHAT!?

Kaley wasn’t a ‘prisoner’ but she wasn’t free okay. Troy was very controlling of her entire life and body and she was a prisoner of her life being raised in a specific way to make her into something specific. Kaley could not drive, Troy didn’t see a reason for her to learn since she would be staying at Willow Creek with him, and she couldn’t just leave Willow Creek. A big facility like that no one just comes and goes as they please in a car. And if Kaley decided to walk out she’d be found pretty quickly. Like as fierce as Kaley is she is very sheltered and very dependant on her father because she was raised that way. She’s never been to a city before. She has very little concept of life outside of Willow Creek. Mostly because Troy was too afraid she’d be killed like his wife if she was allowed anywhere he couldn’t control.

Like you guys gotta remember. The Assassins are a cult. A fucking creepy fucking cult that trains children to fight so they grow up to be killers. The Assassins are just that; assassins, as in they fucking kill people. People born into the Assassins are basically brain washed from birth to believe their rhetoric and that their way is right and good and they are doing good things for humanity by basically playing god and deciding who gets to live and die.

Also Andrew wasn’t above marital rape which… yeah.

If Des survives the Unnamed, will he be psionically exhausted again?

He’ll be tired but he’ll be… different. It won’t be like when he over extended himself. He’ll have realized himself and his exhaustion will just be from working so much without rest and less life threatening than psionic exhaustion.

He and Des never really had the chance to bond. Des' fault, certainly.

Neither of them are blameless. Don’t put all the fault on a man who was lied to about the nature of their connection when he trusted John to be upfront.

Who took over Willow Creek and the Miles clan after Troy's death? Was it John?

Probably Arlyn or Eric honestly. They both had kids and were younger. John had no heirs and was gay. Troy wouldn’t have put a son who would feel it a burden to continue the line to be the leader of Willow Creek. Eric and Arlyn also did produce at least one Sighted kid. So Troy had them as an heir /shrug

Heron why you gotta cut me deep like this? I’m happy FM is ending cause it’s such a huge monster of a thing and I’m glad the book is being closed on it. On the other… this is like the only place some of ya’ll talk to me on. Which is kinda depressing. I’m literally gonna lose a bunch of friends when this story is over (even if sometimes you guys drive me up a wall. That’s kinda what friends are for lols.)

Chapter 95

(There was some weird overlap in reviews here cause I don’t know how to pick chapters correctly /sigh)

So the Unnamed messes with memories too. That's good to know. /Sarcasm

The Unnamed is a strong independant woman who doesn’t need your sass *hair flip*

I guess Lucy was able to get in with him because the Unnamed doesn't recognise her as a real person.

No that’s literally it. She’s not ‘real’.

Just when I thought Desmond was going to do some epic mind-bending, reality-warping stuff, you've thrown this little curveball.

That’s still going to still happen idk what you’re talking about.

Maybe she's the next Tiamat in more ways than one - a synth who's about to become a Stadalla should she survive the Unnamed. Maybe it'll take two (or even three if Tiamat somehow makes it here) Stadalla to ensure that the cycles of civilization and apocalypse don't keep repeating.

Lucy isn’t a stadalla. She’s was a synth designed to be human. Desmond… isn’t human. Well, not all human. She’s physically incapable of being a stadalla because of what a stadalla actually is.

How did they make the decision for Lucy to accompany Desmond into the Unnamed?

Cause Lucy was getting fucking shot at and followed Desmond into the Unnamed to avoid being fucking shot.

Tiamat explained long ago in OotTT that almost everyone the Proeathans sent into the Unnamed to unlock its secrets died, and the few survivors came out with total amnesia. Except for Tiamat herself, of course. I would've thought Desmond would be too scared to risk Lucy's life bringing her in.

Except synths. And ho shit WHAT DO YOU KNOW!?!?!?

Maybe in 20 years or so [Rinchen] could accompany Desmond into an Unnamed structure?

Why? Like for what purpose? It isn’t a toy. It isn’t a training chamber or anything like that. What purpose does some random human, and remind you, Rinchen is HUMAN, have to be going into the Unnamed just because he shares looks (and not genetics) with and was adopted by Cain?

Didn't you write once there's more than one Unnamed in the world?

No. One Unnamed. The constructs are connected to the Unnamed but they are not the Unnamed or like it or can compare to its power in any way.

Anyway, I could see Rinchen being rebellious and wanting to understand the nature of who and what he is better and venturing into the Unnamed to get answers. And Desmond having to go in after the kid to rescue him since Cain probably can't go in. Desmond is the hero of this piece. Or Lucy could go in to rescue Rinchen, too.

Yeah. Let’s play a fun prank and enter a giant arch I know kills things that enter it to give my dad a heart attack. Honestly if Rinchen tried to go into it he’d just walk through it. Or appear to walk through it. No memory of walking in, seeing fucking nothing, and then walking out after a split second. Duncan would just be like ‘oh, you aren’t supposed to be here Rinchen’ and once Rinchen had decided he’d had enough of literally seeing nothing but white emptiness he’d walk back out and Duncan would memory wipe him for safety so he’d forget the time he was inside.

Tiamat probably not as she must be dying of cryo sickness like the others. She may be synthetic, but she was in a cryostasis chamber for 75,000 years just like the other Proeathans. It would take a toll on her living body, too.

Nah. Tiamat decided that that was bullshit and she wasn’t ready to die yet so she just decided ‘nope, I’m not sick now’. Because that’s what it looks like when you have the psionic power of a god.

I'm guessing time doesn't pass the same way inside the Unnamed as it does in the real world? Who built this thing and why?

Time passes how you want it to pass in the Unnamed. Who and why it was built is in 96.

A bridge. A bridge to past and a bridge to the future.

It’s more an allusion to that chapter in FM after Altair got ‘killed’ and Desmond had his fucking freak out. Same name, just a little different.

Why a house with a white picket fence? Seems like a weird choice especially since Des is saying he finds the house creepy.

Duncan is doing his best okay. He doesn’t know what else to show Desmond. He can’t read Desmond’s mind and doesn’t know Desmond yet either. The white picket fence is a classic dream for Americans and that’s what Duncan is working with.

Or maybe this is about Des facing his fears? Everyone must do that at some point in their lives if they want to grow, to become more. To own his fears would make Des stronger, to conquer them would make him unstoppable.

It ain’t that deep

You must be writing and concluding this story at break neck speed

Not really. I’ve got other things to do lols

So did Des expect to die when he entered the Unnamed?

Not immediatly. But he does expect whatever he does in the Unnamed to kill him.

Why did he risk Lucy by taking her into the Unnamed with him? Od warned him that most everyone who ever tried to enter died. That seems careless and Des is never careless with Lucy.

*Makes a loud fart noise with their hand and mouth*

Will they remember anything about the Unnamed to tell the others when they come out?

Duncan makes people who aren’t supposed to be there forget what they’ve seen. The Unnamed was always meant for Desmond.

hope some day you have the time and interest to write another draft of your Flocking Movement saga because readers would love to see how it changes when Kaley Miles lives and does not sink into depression. Maybe she and Altair would still hook up? Or maybe not, because there is Jake. Or would you keep just as Jacob?

If Kay lived she and Altair absolutely would not hook up again because she’s mad at him for leaving her and her children in an abusive situation she felt powerless to get herself out of. Really she’d become bffs with Cain (who I’d change the name of and also make a girl cause WOW FM is a fucking sausage fest) to fuck with Altair a lot. Jake wouldn’t happen, Jacob would just trip into immortality alone thanks to Altair’s fuck up and Altair would end up hooking up with Jacob probably. Cause as much as I love Jake… idk. He doesn’t need to be there. Honestly Jake is Jake so people wouldn’t throw a fucking hissy fit I was shipping Altair with an OC.

Are the Altair, Ezio, Cain, the Angels, and Baldurs people guarding the Unnamed now from Proeathan incursions?

Mmmm. Kinda. When Desmond made it into the Unnamed there isn’t much the Adjatevs can do now. They’re more just making sure they don’t get away.

6 years creating your masterpiece

I would absolutely not call it a masterpiece. Have you actually read FM lately? It’s SO BAD.

Why did you decide upon [the bird theme]?

Because it’s literally part of the AC lore??? Like every single game from the 1st one features bird themes. Altair and Ezio are LITERALLY bird names.

So is Des building bridges here or burning bridges here?

It’s literally the chapter title dude. He’s on a bridge.

The wall that just went up cuts them off from returning to the real world, does it not?

No???? But they want to go in and to go in you have to actually like… GO IN

Is the Unnamed trying to traumatize Des? Making him feel like he's back in the Black Room of the Animus seems needlessly cruel.

The Unnamed isn’t doing that. That’s just the Unnamed looked like. The Animus is bullshit fake news tech made to break human brains but it uses tech similarly to vessels which also uses tech similarly to the Unnamed. The Unnamed is a psychic presence and the Animus and vessels all (tho Vidic didn’t understand it) tap into the psionic prowess of the person and the Unnamed is such a HUGE psionic marker that has trickled down through all these machines that it is part of its very essense. The Unnamed isn’t replicating the Black Room, the Black Room was replicating the Unnamed.

Des needs to remember that Lucy has her own traumas. She 'remembers' dying as Lucy Prime. She was trapped in Proeathan custody for several years. She still grieves for what happened to Clay. She was tossed aside by the Assassins as expendable. She was forced to compromise herself in order to survive. By bringing Lucy into the Unnamed, Des could cause her unnecessary vicarious trauma

*Continues to make fart noises with hand and mouth*

What was your original plan for this chapter?

Just the memory they watched. I didn’t find that particularly thrilling to write so I just had them watch an abridged form and instead I could set the atmosphere of the Unnamed better.

I like how it's not always the guys protecting the damsel in distress in your FM saga. More like the guy in distress being protected by his butt-kicking lady!

I’m pretty sure Desmond has only saved Lucy once. And that was when he gave himself up to Cain to protect her in Mexico. Lucy’s always saving his ass.

Also, if I counted right, this is review 1300

Y’all are crazy. Thank you.

have you ever considered a Legacy chapter from Lucy's time with the Proeathans?

Not really something I’m interested in writing. Sometimes things are better when you just don’t know

Not that I'm begging, please don't think that! It's just you've said in the past it was all right to suggest ideas for Legacy and Tincture.

I… didn’t think that at all. And this sort of wording you guys do sometimes makes me really uncomfortable like I’m incapable of understanding intent in written words and comes across as kinda disingenuine.

Too bad John and Desmond never had the chance to use their pyromancer powers together, as in one giant fireball they lobbed together at their enemies.

Not really how pyromancy works… Cause then taking out the Storks is them using their abilities together.

You saga absorbs me more than most so-called must read literature. As far as I'm concerned, your saga is a Must-Reat story.

Probably cause like most well written fanfic it isn’t sanatized for the Standard of published media which all kinda sounds… the same.

Did Des lose his black smart matter bracelet/knife/god-killing weapon?

Well Lucy was holding it when she shoved him into the Unnamed…

Did Saturn ever have custody of [smart matter]?

Yeaaaaaap. While not stated explicitly the sword she uses in Rain Goddess is smart material

And now that I think about it, how did Des come to have it?

I never say. He woke up with it on his wrist in the Pacific contrust. As to where it came from I think that a bit of mystery is important to a story.

Ch 96

So I realize I was pretty vague in saying to ask questions but some of you guys like… did not read at all what I had written for the type of questions, nor did you really use any reasoning for what sort of questions likely to be answered in this chapter. I know you’re all very smart but guys… guys… pls

Why did Duncan have to die?

Because then Desmond wouldn’t have been wanting.

Must have just about killed you to write this 5 years ago and have to sit on it for so long.

You have no FUCKING IDEA.

So what was Juno's purpose in using Des to kill Lucy Prime?

That question was answered by one of the AI a long time ago. She did so to manipulate Desmond but realized she fucked up only after when the proeathans had him. Also Duncan would have no fucking idea.

Is Xazz happy she ever started writing this monster work that is the beloved Flocking Movement?

Honestly I just can’t wait to not have to write this story ever again. It’s been a serious love hate relationship with this stupid story.

So I guess that's my question to this semi-omniknowing entity. Please explain this chapter in simple terms dolts like me can understand!

I mean it’s supposed to be hard to understand. It’s like a dream sequence and a training montague. Duncan can’t explain it like that because Desmond understands.

And who fathered her twins, Cain and Abel, if not Adam?

Eve’s sons aren’t named Cain and Abel for starters. And that’s a question I’m never ever going to answer. Stories need to have some mysteries.

For those few who survived and made it back to the real world, did they relive all the memories of their lives and acestors?

Not really. Only psychics strong enough can see anything besides the white room can even see memories and those people aren’t common. Most of them just stayed there a long time waiting for something to happen or they became too weak and were going to die so they left.

Maybe the Unnamed could show him the Miles family, and specifically Kaley Miles, so that Desmond could get to know his real mother, even if only peripherally? Not quite what you meant by questions, but this is probably Desmond's only chance to get to know the real Kaley Miles unless he goes into an Animus with the intention of reliving his mother's memories before his own conception. And I doubt he'll ever willingly climb into an Animus again. Ever. No matter how long he lives or doesn't live.

Y’all are a lot like Andrew; you just won’t let Kaley be dead. Desmond has gone out of his way to literally say just let her be dead and rest in peace.

The Unnamed sounds a bit cruel, making Des relive all of his worst memories. I'm surprised it didn't make him relive killing Lucy, or make Lucy relive Lucy Prime's memories of dying, cause you mentioned once that Angel Lucy remembered the original's death.

It did. But it also didn’t just pull out the worst memories. It pulled out all memories. A lot of the things they experianced in the Unnamed were things Desmond experianced on his travels before he ended up in NYC. And then Desmond built worlds around them based on his memory.

Really, I'd love to know more about this shadowy figure orchestrating mass genocide behind the scenes, the bad guy that has never been seen in Flocking Movement. Also, what is the history behind Tiamat and her connection to Chronos that makes her want him dead?

Chronos will be appearing in another chapter. And I thought locking her in a box away from all other humanity for years was a pretty good reason to want Chronos dead.

May I suggest that the semi omniknowing entity be named Xazz? Seeing as you are the all-knowing entity behind Flocking Movement, it'd be radical if you inserted yourself into your own universe. Honestly, after six years writing your saga, you deserve your own character!

Self inserts of myself actually make me incredibly uncomfortable. As it is I share a name with one of the main characters and that really makes me uncomfortable. So. Never gonna happen.

Can [the Unnamed] show the future, or possible futures?

The Unnamed can show the true past, present, and future. It is literally made by even more advanced pyschics than humans or proeathans who could percieve time differently than either of them and can see the future unaided while proeathans can’t at all and humans need someone else to do so accuratly.

if the whole of Atlantis will transform around everyone standing and fighting there now

I actually didn’t think of that til now and the image is very lovely.

I’ve asked you a million questions and speculated til we’re both blue in the face, so coming up with more may just be redundant

Yeah but you keep trying, Heron lols

Addionally, I would love to know more about past Stadalla. Saturn. Jupiter. HERA and JUNO!

I actually have a series planned that’s just… the Stadalla during their times.

Specifically the part where the twins, Hera and Juno, were the first stadalla to advocate for human freedom. STADALLA?!

I might have mistyped a tiny bit. The actual stadalla who did it weren’t Hera and Juno but Venus and Mercury. Hera and Juno were very important stadalla, especially Hera, but Venus and Mercury existed at the same time and they were the ones who really fought against proeathans keeping human slaves. Sorry I just got too excited about sharing lols

Why then would Juno want to kill Lucy and weaken Desmond, the next Stadalla, if she supported humans being free?

Okay and also. These AI are not the stadalla. The AI are just people who were sacrified by the Adjatevs. The AI known as Mercury isn’t even an Adjatev, he’s a Lesh’v’rin. They were all alive during the fall of the proeathan civilization and none of the actual stadalla were. Not to mention the AI known as Juno isn’t even the right gender or species.

Chapter 97

I assumed the builders of the Unnamed would be a long dead race, native to Earth, perhaps more advanced, but not extraterrestrial in origin.

I really wasn’t sure how fucking far I could keep pushing shit. Cause humans have found a pretty good historical record of stuff and it’s obvious the proeathans didn’t just disappear. They show up as other and in our cultures as things. But I didn’t know how I could like… not make it aliens and it fit??? Cause if it was an older civilizations the proeathans would have known about it! Early humans would have known about it. Aliens was really the only way I could get a good ‘we have literally zero idea or understanding of this giant monolith’ without it being like ‘well actually we found xyz in the fossil record’.

Also aliens

I assume those species had something more sophisticated than cryogenesis, as they would need to freeze themselves in order to survive the distances that would need to be travelled to reach other galaxies. In fact, those species would probably still be sleeping as their ships continued on their way as all of the drama surrounding Earth’s naïve children played out.

Or faster than light travel. Or something like the Mass Effect Relays which don’t even give a flying fuck about your FTL shit. If you could make something like the Unnamed and the Earth’s facilities you ain’t taking long space flights.

Duncan says the Others seeded Earth, too, to help life evolve. But why? They were using Earth as a way station for weary travellers. Why help life evolve on Earth and have to give up their way station in a solar system that could provide all of the fuel they needed to continue on their way and support life on top of that? Then why leave that same life the Other’s helped create to flounder and find their own way to survival?

So Drivers just do… that. They’re a benevolant race of psychics. Which is why Earth has psychics. And they didn’t do anything really. They just saw that Earth could sustain life and were like ‘oh this is neat’ and kinda helped it along and then when the proeathans started devloping culture they peaced out cause it wasn’t an empty world anymore. Things lived there now.

What has become of these Others? Are they still around, watching from afar?

I will tell you they aren’t watching. No one even knows Earth is there. As to what they’re doing; fuck if I know.

Perhaps not making contact is actually better for Proeathans and humans? Look what happened when Humans and Proeathans made contact.

Yeah no the galaxy is gonna be a hot mess when Earthlings figure out FTL. Space orcs and such.

Were Eve’s twin sons, Cain and Abel also Stadallas?

Ya’akov and Le’a you mean. And technically yes. But also no. They’re stadalla in the same way that Tiamat is a stadalla. Stadalla in ability if not by godhood.

Did Eve, who herself was not a Stadalla, but instead a powerful Angel, give birth to twin Stadallas?

Yes

Were Cain and Abel trying to fulfill their mother’s legacy, or just to understand it better?

The first bit

Yet Desmond is the Seventeenth Stadalla, clearly the most important Stadalla ever born.

MMMMM!!! Debateable lols. Desmond is the most important in recent memory but people would argue Saturn was way more important than Desmond. Or Pluto. Or Demeter. Demeter is an insanely important stadalla.

Is that ability unique to Desmond? That he can fashion reality to suit himself and the world?

No everyone could do it in the Unnamed. But not everyone got to sit in the big boy chair lols.

Just imagine how Cronos would fashion the world to suit himself.

Well I mean… reality of the Unnamed only exists in the Unnamed. You can’t just go into the Unnamed and bring it out of the Unnamed without Duncan’s permission. Like Desmond and Lucy’s clothes will leave with them because Duncan is like ‘yeah sure, you can do that’ but Chronos couldn’t go in there, make a super weapon, and bring it back out of it. Duncan wouldn’t allow it. Also you can’t just… brute force the Unnamed unless you’re a Driver. Like Ya’akov and Le’a brute forced the Unnamed because they were Drivers even tho Duncan KINDA HATED BOTH OF THEM but there were two of them and they were ridiculously powerful and he was kinda powerless to stop them. If you aren’t a Driver you just see… nothing. There is no Unnamed for someone who isn’t a Driver and you can only force the Unnamed to become yours if you are one like Ya’akov and Le’a. Which is what they did. Duncan didn’t want them to have access to that chair but they did it anyway.

This must have frustrated Cain and Abel to no end that they couldn't fix the damage their mother had caused, to bring back the world the way it used to be, except with a place for free humans and Angels.

Kinda??? They were more pissed at Duncan cause he kept kicking them back into their own bodies because he was so hateful to them. Which to be fair, they were LITERALLY trying to destroy the entire world and REALLY fuck shit up even worse than it already was and Duncan can’t allow that.

Like where anger and jealously lead one twin to killing the other, as history seems to record...?

Uh… no. Ya’akov and Le’a loved each other. Like to the point it made other people uncomfortable how much they loved each other. And the Cain and Abel mythos is about…. Cains and abels, the type of psychic ability humans have. Has literally nothing to do with Eve’s sons.

Your Flocking Movement wiki must be enormous, bb, to cover all of these characters and their backstories.

Not really??? Cause I just don’t care about those kinda things that much. If you actually want me to write those kinda entries I will but that isn’t really what the wiki is about.

How then did Tiamat interact with the Duncan? He just old Desmond that he modified his program to keep Lucy young and alive and not affected by the passage of time within the Unnamed. Wouldn’t he have had to do the same for Tiamat, since she told Desmond he’d have scads of time in the Unnamed to figure life out?

Yes Heron that is literally what happened you literally answered your own question.

Since Lucy is synthesized, does that mean she contains no Other DNA either?

Yes Heron that is gone kinda in depth with in Clay’s chapter in Triad. Like I explicitly say that Lucy is 100% pure sythasized human DNA.

How sad and frustrating for Lucy that she has been unable to get pregnant?

Less sad and more she’s just frustrated and mad about it cause god damnit Desmond be useful lols

How much worse that she likely won’t be there to see much of her baby’s life… It is not selfishness motivating Lucy here, not a desperate attempt to leave something of herself in the world. Its hope that’s motivating Lucy. A hope that she’ll leave a real legacy, and the knowledge that Desmond and his ancestors will still be there to love and raise the child in her absence.

I honestly can’t believe you actually thought I’d actually let Lucy fucking die a second time. Like the fuck??? You think I’d go through all this trouble to deus ex machina her back to life and get her and Desmond back together again during the fucking apocolypse for her to ACTUALLY DIE in 3 years? Please.

A child born of her love with Desmond and gift to leave him when she is gone. A reason for Desmond to go on living, which I believe Lucy realizes he’ll need if he loses yet another person he loves.

No but real talk other than cause she wants to that is the primary reason Lucy’s decided she wants a baby. She wants Desmond to have fucking something when she eventually dies cause SHE KNOWS her man and she knows he’s a hot fucking mess and probably would just kill himself eventually because he couldn’t deal with it. Not that she does die tho cause fuck that noise.

Speaking of children failing to live up to their mother's legacies, Lucy's baby would surely have a tall order to live up to regarding the Lady of the Lake being its mother. Yikes. And Desmond as the father if people view him as a demon of sorts? ... Maybe better for Lucy to keep the identity of the father a secret for the child's sake.

Nah. Baby doesn’t have to live up to anything. Desmond and Lucy don’t let them feel like that. As it is they already do live up to it by existing which is a fucking miracle after the shit their entire species and planet have been through.

Fingers crossed for a girl, just like her mama and her nana Kaley.

I mean… they do have a girl. It isn’t the first one tho. I am gonna rip your heart out on the first one lols

I only pay attention when I see reviews climbing, then I know you have a new one up!

That is literally the worst way to see if I have a new chapter cause seemingly ALL y’all do that until someone notices.

When he said he was making animals, I just about fell over! If he's willing life into existence, are these existing animals, or is he creating new creatures?

I mean they… aren’t real?? Like Duncan said they are their reality but Desmond also isn’t spontaniously making life out of nothing. Like objects (clothes) are fine because that’s just matter but actual living things Duncan doesn’t allow out of the Unnamed.

The Unnamed likely had a name once in the alien tongue, long lost to the mists of time by this point.

It absolutely did.

The Others were the gods that the Proeathans fashioned their own mythos after, just like humans adopted Proeathans into their mythos.

No. Absolutly not. The stadalla were real live people who became gods and thus they were worshiped. But the Drivers were never worshiped as gods by the proeathans.

Cha 98

Now Micheal having a nervous breakdown in the middle of the battle and Altair is trying to hold him together, literally and figuratively.

I mean… he isn’t. He just suddenly can feel emotion again and he’s feeling so many emotions all at once that all he can do is cry.

If [proeathans] destroyed [The Unnamed] while Lucy is still inside, there would be no stopping Desmond’s vengeance.

Literally impossible

Have any other lifeforms messed up the Unnamed as badly as humanity and the Proeathans have done? Have any other species managed to bring themselves to near extinction by misunderstanding and misusing the Unnamed on other worlds as badly as the people of Earth have done?

I mean… they aren’t misusing it. It becomes what they need it to become and serves a new purpose when it falls into the hands of the new race. It becomes theirs. But yeah, probably.

What are the limitations of Desmond’s power? He can’t bring back the dead, but can he prevent death if he chooses? Can he prevent his and Lucy’s deaths, or will time take them away anyway?

‘God-like’. Also everyone just like… forgets all the time that Altair has made THREE people immortal thanks to the Apple. Like it isn’t that fucking hard.

Can he create life beyond procreating with Lucy?

Don’t say it like that Heron it sounds gross. But no.

Or is he the sacrificial lamb, risen with his lion-like divine powers to bring peace and justice to the world? A lamb who will tolerate no more fighting

I don’t know how much actually clearer I can tell you what a stadalla is at this point. Either you get it; or you don’t

Okay, now I’m insatiably curious about the first Stadalla. You once wrote that the Proeathans learned how to use the Unnamed to control human and Angelic minds when they found their way to Atlantis and enslave them and mutilate them and wipe out whole races and suppress natural abilities. I assume this was because the first Stadalla, who I surmise was a Proeathan, taught his people how to use the Unnamed to control the other sentient,

Pluto was too busy fucking up his own species to even know humans existed. Humans didn’t enter the picture until… Hera I wanna say. That’s 6? 7?

Finding that Apple in Boston altered Micheal’s life

Philly

Hey, did Cain ever meet Qin Shi Huang, emperor of China who desperately searched for a way to become immortal

Idk man. Maybe

Is Hawk gone for good then after Des woke up Micheal's soul in One of the Terrible Things? Poor Hawk.

Yeah. Hawk’s gone. Don’t pity him. He doesn’t pity himself. He’s happy. He’s happy he’s Micheal again.

Do the Proeathand feel like Hawk much of the time? They aren't ruled by their emotions, to the point Des had to share empathy with them so they could understand human emotions and validate that way of being.

No. Hawk doesn’t feel anything. He doesn’t feel fear or sadness or joy or anything else. Proeathans just don’t possess empathy. They are a sympathetic race but they still feel fear, sadness, joy, loss.

Will he remember Hawk's memories of the past 200 years and everything Hawk did? Is Hawk glad to be going now and returning control over to Micheal?

Yes and yes

I know you said Hawk is an infestation, but is he still part of Micheal's soul, or just memories now?

Neither really? Both? Hawk was Micheal without emotions. But he was still Micheal.

Ch 99

does he realize how much he has become like his father?

Except he fucking isn’t. Desmond isn’t like Andrew. On the surface he is but people are not skin deep. Motivations behind Andrew and Desmond’s choices are DRASTICALLY different. It’s like the Batman argument ‘if you kill a killer the number of killers remains the same’ with the counter being ‘well if you kill 1+x killers the number of killers go down by x’. Yeah they both did the same thing of letting someone die for the ‘greater good’ but their motivations and how they went about it are so UTTERLY different it’s kinda insulting to even compare the two tbh

Altair ibn La’Had al Umar

Heron I’m disappointed. La’Ahad

I don’t know if Duncan’s presence provided more comfort or pain to Andrew

Why not both?

His three daddies (four if one counts Cain)

Cain absolutely doesn’t get dad status okay.

What will happen to the surviving Assassins and Templars in the new world order Des is building? I assume Des isn't going to kill them all?

Both of their orders are dead. There’s nothing left for them to fight. The war’s over. They will help rebuild just like everyone else.

How do soldiers adjust to a period of peace?

There also aren’t a lot left on either side. A few dozen Assassins and actual Templars who understood the war and not just thugs.

Andrew couldn't quite believe Desmond would let him die, but surely he realizes he's merely reaping what he sowed? He raised Desmond to be this practical and this ruthless. The world has not been a gentle place to Desmond Miles.

Winner winner chicken dinner

doesn't kaley share some responsibility for this situation as she was the mother? yes, she was depressed too, but she doesn't appear to have sought much help either and didn't ask anyone else to take care of the boys

Don’t fucking victum blame dude it’s fucking gross. She was their mother but when you’re living in a cult where other people control your entire life it’s hard to just get over shit like what Kaley had. She was as much a victim as her children and casting blame on her is kinda shitty.

Ch 100

Des is like the strongest psychic on the planet now, right? Why didn't he go into Andrew's mind as he lay dying?

Why would he do that??? Like what’s the point of that????

Is he like a spirit or ghost when he detaches from his body like this? Like dead?

Astral projection since you couldn’t understand Duncan’s explanation

Xazz, you have a wicked sense of humor!

I just like ruining Altair’s life/day tbh. It’s my fave thing to dooooo~

What about Lucy? Des is pressuring his ancestors to have some kind of relationship with Tommy, but what about Lucy?

I don’t know if you noticed but Lucy isn’t in this chapter.

Who was Sath’ka?

Idk. I just made it up lols

Rather egocentric that Tiamat assumed the AI would appear as a Proeathan to Desmond, a species that have seriously traumatized all humans on Earth, but then that is the Proeathan way.

In her time, in the ability proeathans had, AI were all gendered and could not change forms. It isn’t egocentric. She’s just going off what she knows about AI which to her makes total sense that the waystation AI would be female and proeathan no matter who interacted with them, just like all other AI she’s ever interacted with and seen.

Ch 101 (the actual chapter 100)

Will Des eventually build up new countries as the population expands over the centuries?

No. Humans and proeathans can do that themselves. He made Atlantis and that’s his home now. Humans can and will rebuild their world on their own.

Are the AI the current ones that Des knows, or AI who've basically been in storage awaiting a purpose?

I mean Desmond doesn’t know about if there even if other AI out there other than the Adjatev ones. So…

Are the AI happy with how this war turned out?

Desmond’s were. The others aren’t lols

What about Morpheus? He said long ago that he helped Des because Venus promised he'd see something amazing if he joined the Flock's side in this war.

Sorry is a god being born in front of you not amazing enough for you?

How did Hera get revenge on Juno, which she told Des was one of her main reasons for fighting?

Hera’s revenge was just helping Desmond who Juno was against, and making Lucy perfect

What role will Tommy have in this new world?

Probably… none. Tommy gets to be a normal guy who gets to kiss cute boys and hang out with his brother and nieces and nephews and be normal; just what Desmond always wanted and wanted for Tommy.

Do the Adjatevs accept responsibility for the war, the genocide of humanity and several races of Proeathans?

Fuck no

Cain, as the last surviving Drell on Earth, surely had something to say about that on behalf of his father, Pipek?

Hey. Hey. Remember that big thing Cain told Desmond about how he buried his people and put them to rest and wasn’t angry about it anymore? WOW it’s almost like that’s a thinggggg

Is even Lilith gone, Xazz?

All the vessels are broken, all the angels within freed, even Lilith

Didn't she say she'd be training Des for years to come in his Angelic abilities?

Just because a character says something doesn’t mean it’ll happen. Desmond is so infititly more powerful than Lilith now to think she’d have anything left to teach him is fucking laughable

What does Tommy think about the big brother he didn't remember?

But he does remember? Like that’s the entire point of what Desmond did. He does remember.

How many birthday wishes have you received today, Xazz?

Idk across the 5 different stories people were wishing them to me I kinda lost count XD Needless to say; it was a LOT

How relieved his daddies must be they're not going to lose Desmond?

They all knew Desmond would eventually die. They were relieved he wasn’t going to die so soon and would get to grow old but now he’s immortal and they’re like ‘oh… sweet!’

If I read your comments correctly, you wanted to complete your story on November 29, which I think you said is your birthday. But according the ff site, your story was completed on November 28? I don't know if that's a glitch or I just missed chapter 101 yesterday?

It’s a glitch. When you get a lot of reviews like I was getting ff.net kinda REALLY FUCKING HATES IT and causes things to display incorrectly. It’s why reviews took a while to show up that week and why it said the 28th. But I assure you, I 100% uploaded chap 101 on the 29th.

Couldn't Lucy and Desmond just take a break from each other if they get bored of one another?

I don’t… know why this is a question? Like. Yeah???

Tiamat probably can't either as she is probably pure Proeathan, being synthetic herself.

Tiamat absolutely is not pure proeathan. She’s like Mercury, a synth made to be a perfect being. Meaning Otherness.

Will Desmond bring Duncan's body to Atlantis to rest near him?

Remember Desmond’s insistance to just let Kaley be dead? Yeah. Same thing. Let the dead fucking rest.

Were there any other Proeathans still sleeping, waiting for the day they get to awaken? Won't they be surprised when they wake up to a world where humans and Proeathans are living together and Angels have returned and the Stadalla is in charge?

Now that would be telling wouldn’t it? ;)

And thanks to everyone who sent me birthday wishes across all of my FM stories. They really brightened my day, especially cause it wasn’t the best day when I had a bit of a row with a friend over dumb shit.

Also someone… somewhere in the giant mess of reviews I got asked about why Desmond is the 17th stadalla and why that number and what’s the significance of 17. And the answer is… well it’s literally canon lols. Desmond is Subject 17 of the Animus Project conducted by the Templars. And then Juno says some cryptic ass shit about 7 in the end of Brotherhood and I just kinda ran with it. So yeah, that’s why Desmond is the 17th stadalla.

#shut up bb

3 notes · View notes

meginoi · 7 years

Note

All the numbers

Challenge Accepted, anon. You asked, i answered

1:Full name - Meg (i’m not putting my last name)

2:Zodiac sign - Aires

3:3 fears - Insects, loneliness, the dark

4:3 things I love - Youtube, my friends, Netflix

5:4 turn on’s - Hmmmm, not sure

6:4 turn off’s - Being arrogant and cocky

7:My best friend? - Online: cutie5780 In person: soulydyingalone

8:Sexual orientation? - Polyamourous Bisexual or Lesbian (i haven’t figured it out yet)9:My best first date? - Bowling

10:How tall am I? - 5′6

11:What do I miss? - Having no responsibilities

12:What time was I born?- 1:25pm

13:Favorite color? - Red

14:Do I have a crush? - Definitely

15:Favorite quote? - Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time. – Thomas Edison

16:Favorite place? - There’s a lovely coffee shop near to where i live where i go to work and write.

17:Favorite food? - Lemon Chicken

18:Do I use sarcasm? - Definitely, it’s my only source of humor

19:What am I listening to right now? - Impossible - James Arthur

20:First thing I notice in new person? - Their eyes

21:Shoe size? - 6

22:Eye color? - Blue

23:Hair color? - Naturally blonde but i dye it brown

24: Favorite style of clothing? - Style? I just wear jeans and a jumper really…idk

25:Ever done a prank call? - Nope

26:What color of underwear I’m wearing now? - Not answering this one

27:Meaning behind my URL? - I used an username generator, its a mix of my name and idk what.28:Favorite movie? - It’s a tie between the IT remake and La La Land

29:Favorite song? - Temporary Bliss by The Cab

30:Favorite band? - Icon For Hire

31:How I feel right now? - Tired but happy

32:Someone I love. - cutie5780 - Sydney

33:My current relationship status. - Single

34:My relationship with my parents. - Me and my mom have a good relationship. Me and my dad…not so much.

35:Favorite holiday - The cruise i did round Scandinavia in August

36:Tattoos and piercing I have. - None

37:Tattoos and piercing I want. - A tattoo of a flower on my thigh

38:The reason I joined Tumblr. - I can’t actually remember

39:Do I and my last ex hate each other? - No, not at all

40:Do I ever get “good morning” or “good night” texts? - Yep

41:Have I ever kissed the last person I texted? - No

42:When did I last hold hands? - I can’t even remember.

43:How long does it take me to get ready in the morning? - About half an hour

44:Have I shaved my legs in the past three days? - Yep

45: Where am I right now? - Home

46:If I were drunk & can’t stand, who’s taking care of me? - Probably soulydyingalone

47:Do I like my music loud or at a reasonable level? - Depends on my mood

48:Do I live with my Mom and Dad? - Yes

49:Am I excited for anything? - The Markiplier tour in February

50:Do I have someone of the opposite sex I can tell everything to? - No

51:How often do I wear a fake smile? - Almost all the time - especially at work

52:When was the last time I hugged someone? - I can’t remember

53:What if the last person I kissed was kissing someone else right in front of me? - I wouldn’t really be bothered

54:Is there anyone I trust even though I should not? - Probably one of my exes

55:What is something I disliked about today? - Going to work

56:If I could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be? - Probaby either Thomas Sanders, Jacksepticeye or Markiplier

57:What do I think about most? - I think about my future career a lot

58:What’s my strangest talent? - Idk, I’m not talented

59:Do I have any strange phobias? - I have a phobia of getting ill

60:Do I prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it? - Depends on my mood

61:What was the last lie I told? - I’m not sure

62:Do I prefer talking on the phone or video chatting online? - Talking on the phone

63:Do I believe in ghosts? How about aliens? - Yep, believe in both

64:Do I believe in magic? - Yep

65:Do I believe in luck? - Not sure

66:What’s the weather like right now? - Raining (no surprise there)

67:What was the last book I’ve read? - Flawed by Cecelia Ahern

68:Do I like the smell of gasoline? - Yep

69:Do I have any nicknames? - Meggles

70:What was the worst injury I’ve ever had? - Fracturing my hip

71:Do I spend money or save it? - Spend, i have no control with money

72:Can I touch my nose with a tongue? - No

73: Is there anything pink in 10 feet from me? - Nope

74:Favorite animal? - Dogs

75:What was I doing last night at 12 AM? - Writing and watching Long Live

76:What do I think Satan’s last name is?

77:What’s a song that always makes me happy when I hear it? - Cake By The Ocean by DNCE

78:How can you win my heart? - By actually caring about me and asking how i am

79: What would I want to be written on my tombstone? - Say not in grief that she is no more but say in thankfulness that she was. A death is not the extinguishing of a light, but the putting out of the lamp because the dawn has come. 80:What is my favorite word?- Bubble

81:My top 5 blogs on tumblr? - deadprinxietywalking, cutie5780. soulydyingalone, ilovemyspoopydad. mylasagnaisraw82:If the whole world were listening to me right now, what would I say?- Everyone, be nice to each other!

83:Do I have any relatives in jail? - Nope

84:I accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what’s even cooler is that they endow me with the super-power of my choice! What is that power? - The ability to read minds

85:What would be a question I’d be afraid to tell the truth on? - Have you ever been abused?

86:What is my current desktop picture? - The Sanders Sides

87:Had sex? - No

88:Bought condoms? - No

89:Gotten pregnant? - No

90:Failed a class? - No

91:Kissed a boy? - Yes

92:Kissed a girl? - Yes

93:Have I ever kissed somebody in the rain? - Yes

94:Had job? - Yes

95:Left the house without my wallet? - Yes

96:Bullied someone on the Internet? - No

97:Had sex in public? - No

98:Played on a sports team? - No

99:Smoked weed? - No

100:Did drugs? - Np

101:Smoked cigarettes? - Yeah

102:Drank alcohol? - Yeah

103:Am I a vegetarian/vegan? - No

104:Been overweight? - No

105:Been underweight? - Yes

106:Been to a wedding? - Never

107:Been on the computer for 5 hours straight? - Almost every day

108:Watched TV for 5 hours straight? - No

109:Been outside my home country? - Yeah

110:Gotten my heart broken? - Yep

111:Been to a professional sports game? - Yeah

112:Broken a bone? - Yeah

113:Cut myself? - Yep

114:Been to prom? - Yep

115:Been in airplane? - Yep

116: Fly by helicopter? - Nope

117:What concerts have I been to? - So many, most recently was Ed Sheeran.

118:Had a crush on someone of the same sex? - Yep

119:Learned another language? - Yep

120:Wore make up? - Yeah

121:Lost my virginity before I was 18? - No

122:Had oral sex? - No

123:Dyed my hair? - Yeah

124:Voted in a presidential election? - No

125:Rode in an ambulance? - Yeah

126:Had a surgery? - No

127:Met someone famous? - Yeah

128: Stalked someone on a social network?- No

129:Peed outside? - No

130:Been fishing? - Yep

131:Helped with charity? - Yeah

132:Been rejected by a crush? - Yep

133:Broken a mirror? - No

134:What do I want for birthday? - A tattoo

135:How many kids do I want and what will be their names? - 2 - Ellie and Ryan

136:Was I named after anyone?- I don’t think so

137:Do I like my handwriting? - Nah

138:What was my favorite toy as a child? - Not sure

139:Favorite TV Show? - American Horror Story

140:Where do I want to live when older? - Cornwall, UK

141:Play any musical instrument? - No

142:One of my scars, how did I get it? - Top of my wrist - carpet burn

143:Favorite pizza topping? - Bacon (that’s a topping right?)

144:Am I afraid of the dark? - Yeah

145:Am I afraid of heights? - Nah

146:Have I ever got caught sneaking out or doing anything bad? - Nope

147:Have I ever tried my hardest and then gotten disappointed in the end? - Almost all the time

148:What I’m really bad at - Singing

149:What my greatest achievements are- Passing first year of college with a distinction150:The meanest thing somebody has ever said to me - My life was better without you in it - my crush at the time.151:What I’d do if I won in a lottery - Take a trip to New York

152:What do I like about myself? - My eyes

153:My closest Tumblr friend - Cutie5780

154:Something I fantasies about. - Being a published writer

155:Any question you’d like - N/A

6 notes · View notes

componentplanet · 5 years

Text

Living with a Dell Precision 5540 Mobile Workstation

Just when you think you’ve got a great mobile computing solution, something always comes along to upset the apple cart. In my case, it was mostly drones — more specifically, the 4K footage from my Mavic Pro drones. In addition to the added compute demands of rendering and encoding 4K video, consumer drone footage benefits mightily from substantial post-processing to reduce noise, correct artifacts, and perform color grading.

My two-year-old Dell XPS 15 9560 has been a great workhorse for photo and video editing but has been limited by its 4-core CPU and thermal issues (even after I hacked on it with various thermal fixes). Plus there is a whole new generation of GPUs since its 1050, for applications like Lightroom and Photoshop that take advantage of them. So I went shopping.

Shopping for a High-Powered Laptop

By default, I looked at the newest model XPS 15, the 7590, but early reviewers seemed to be having the same thermal issues as the earlier versions. I also looked closely at the HP and Lenovo mobile workstations,

but the components I wanted — latest generation i9, Turing GPU, and 4K touch display, all in one 4-pound chassis — weren’t all available at the time. They are starting to be, and I look forward to working with some of them over time. But I needed something sooner, so I took a chance and purchased one of the first Dell Precision 5540 units.

The Precision 5540 is very similar to an XPS model, with a few workstation twists, like the option for a Quadro GPU and some thermal tweaks, along with being certified for a lot of creative and engineering software. Early units even said XPS on the back flap, although now they say Precision. Physically the Precision 5540 looks nearly identical to my 9560, and in fact while I’ve had both of them in use I’ve found myself being frustrated at a missing file only to realize I’m on the wrong laptop.

Dell also provides about the same extensive set of ports it has for several years. There is a USB-C port that is now Thunderbolt 3 compatible, HDMI, 2 traditional USB ports, a mic/headphone jack, and a welcome SD card reader. Hard-wired Ethernet is long gone, but Dell does ship a USB-C Ethernet dongle along with the machine. Video callers will be thrilled that Dell has squeezed the webcam into the tiny bezel above the screen, instead of having it next to the keyboard.

If you’re looking for a fresh design, the Precision 5540 isn’t it. It’s nearly identical on the outside to my 2-year-old XPS 15, other than the new webcam placement.

You can get the Precision 5540 with Windows 10 Home, Pro, or Workstation (if you choose the 6-core Xeon). Linux is also available. RAM ranges from 8GB to 64GB, and hard drives from 256GB to 1TB. If you want either the T1000 or T2000 GPU, you’ll probably also want the large battery instead of an extra drive bay. The only screen option advertised to support 100 percent of Adobe RGB is the 4K IGZO4 Touch version. Selecting it will also require the large battery and configuring 2 RAM modules. After Dell’s online discounts, the 5540 is priced similarly to a high-end XPS 15.

The Precision 5540 Is a Performance Beast for a 4-pound Laptop

By the numbers, the Precision 5540 is a large upgrade over my last-gen XPS. The 8-core i9-9980HK has a lower base clock than the 9560’s i7 (2.4GHz versus 2.8GHz) but it boosts to a maximum of 5GHz and doesn’t throttle nearly as much. Running Cinebench R20 (CPU rendering) the 9560 crashed to a low of .8GHz, helping reduce its score to just over 1000. The 5540 never went below 2.9 GHz which, along with its 8 cores, allowed it to score over 3200. That performance ratio was more than matched in Intel’s XTU benchmark, at 2800 versus 850.

Similarly, the Quadro T2000 is a big upgrade. 3DMark’s TimeSpy jumped from 1800 to 3200, for example. The results for FireStrike were also good, jumping from 5000 to 7400. Following along with a monitor on the CPU temperature and clock speed, a small amount of thermal throttling occurred, but the CPU was always able to perform above its base clock.

Dell’s Precision 5540 4K LED display has a gamut covering 100 percent of sRGB and Adobe RGB, along with 95 percent of DCI-P3.

However, this is still a lot of processing power and heat crammed into a small package, so it isn’t immune from throttling. A combination of heavy CPU and Nvidia GPU load will cause the system power limit to come down, which in turn can reduce clock rates down to their base clock.

What? No RTX?

Having just covered Nvidia’s big push to roll out its RTX capabilities to “Creatives,” I was well aware that even though the T2000 GPU in the Precision 5540 is a beast by mobile standards, it doesn’t have any of the dedicated RTX functionality. In the end, I decided I’m okay with that. It isn’t clear how much true RTX capability is in applications Nvidia touts, so I don’t know what the performance gain would be.

In particular, while I do a lot of rendering, encoding, and image processing, I don’t game on my laptop (much) or use it for ray tracing very often. Similarly, serious AI work will still be the province of my desktop machines or the cloud, which have beefier GPUs and more GPU memory. Plus, the mobile workstations with real RTX GPUs are even heavier and more expensive. If Nvidia is successful in establishing RTX

as a permanent part of its architecture, I’m sure that will change over time.

“Kitbashing” to Save Some Bucks

A favorite term in our family comes from model railroading: Kitbashing to upgrade a pre-designed building model is one of our favorite activities. Doing your own computer upgrades can be just as rewarding, and even more profitable. Dell wanted an uplift of something like $700 to equip my machine with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. I found I could buy the equivalent or better components for about $250 (Crucial 2666 RAM and a top-rated Adata NVMe SSD) and install them myself.

I did find that the security settings in the BIOS had to be turned down a notch before it let me boot of my new drive — that I had cloned from the one that came with the Precision 5540. Then I used the excellent PC Mover utility from Laplink to get my apps, files, and settings across from my old machine. It’s not perfect, but having tried many tools that claim to do this over the years, it is the only one I’ve found that is actually worth using.

Using the Dell Precision 5540

Overall, the Precision 5540 is a joy to use. The screen is stunning and capable of being incredibly bright. Having the (optional) fingerprint reader in the power button makes returning to the machine simple and intuitive. And the machine is fast. It not only benchmarks fast, it feels fast and is responsive (which you’d certainly expect from all that power under the hood). You can order it with a spinning hard drive as the primary drive, but I find it hard to believe that would ever make sense.

Unfortunately, much like many other Windows computers, the Precision 5540 continues to struggle with sleep-related issues when running Windows 10. The first one I ran across was that the default “connected standby” or whatever the current term is for the default sleep mode is, would enable the machine to fire back up after I closed it and put it in my photo backpack. Forcing it to hibernate solved that problem, but it really shouldn’t be a problem at all in a state of the art high-end machine. The other issue I had with two different units is that after resuming from sleep the WiFi speed was crushed to less than 10% of what it had been before. Interestingly, I didn’t see this when the 5540 first shipped, but has been easily repeatable for the last couple weeks. Updating drivers (from either the Dell or Intel site) doesn’t seem to fix it, although turning WiFi off and on again does. I really hope Dell gets on top of this soon.

Conclusion

Overall, I’m satisfied with the Precision 5540. It performed perfectly on the road in Europe to process 360-degree panoramas and lots of 4K drone footage, and around the US on several different projects. While the 5540 pricing starts at $1,240, a fully-configured unit prices out at just over $3,000, so it isn’t for everyone. I’m pleased with my choice and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to those with similar needs and budgets, although both the Thinkpad X1 Extreme 2nd generation and the HP ZBook Studio G6 should be worthy competitors. I’m assuming that Dell can fix the annoying WiFi issue.

For Mac users, look for the rumored 16-inch MacBook Pro by the end of 2019. I do wonder if its screen will actually be larger than the 15.6-inch current standard for high-end 15-inch machines, or if the 16-inch moniker is just marketing. It’ll be interesting to see what Apple provides for GPU options for it, as that is one area where they have tended to lag behind Windows competitors.

Now Read:

At a Glance: Alienware M15 R2 Laptop Review

Hands On With the DJI Mavic Pro: A Serious Drone That Fits in Your Daypack

Lenovo X1 Carbon vs. Yoga: Which ThinkPad Model Is Right for You?

from ExtremeTechExtremeTech https://www.extremetech.com/computing/296737-living-with-a-dell-precision-5540-mobile-workstation from Blogger http://componentplanet.blogspot.com/2019/10/living-with-dell-precision-5540-mobile.html

#Living with a Dell Precision 5540 Mobile Workstation

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iwantunique · 5 years

Text

20+ best stocking stuffers for toddlers 2019

Oftentimes, best stocking stuffers for toddlers 2019 or to choose toddler presents are some of the most difficult tasks on your shopping list. What’s your type when you choose the presents for your tot, like funny, cheap, useful, educational, and expensive? Well, there are heaps of miniature gadgets that will amaze your child by seeing the brimmed stocking! But it is always fair to indulge at least some things that the receiver of the gift (whether it’s your parent, child, or might your cute dog) gets really surprised; feel enjoyed while receiving those presents; at the same time, it would be the icing on the cake if they’re useful too! To help you out in this thorough process of figuring out the suitable Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 for preschoolers this year, we have assembled some of the best products aptly suited for the best stocking stuffers for toddlers 2019. These stuffers include items right fro, quirky toys to gag gifts, the very useful gadgets, beautiful accessories, and so much more. Here, you’ll find the best stocking stuffer toddlers ideas for your little cutie pie! And remember while adding the excitement taste under Christmas Tree, fill these stocking stuffers with something that spreads enchantment and joy! The list of these best stocking stuffers for toddlers 2019 will make Christmas morning or the annual holiday present list a very special one! We test, research, and recommend the best of the best products. So, glance further to buy something unique for your child. Best stocking stuffers for toddlers 2019 1.Turbo Race Car Twin Bed The Turbo Race Car Twin Bed from Delta Children! Designed to resemble a classic race car, fun details include a rear spoiler, a front grill and racing tires with chrome-colored rims. Made of durable molded plastic and decorated with cool decals, this sleek bed will kick any car-themed room into high gear for years to come. The high sides of the race car act as secure guardrails and allow kids of all ages to easily enter and exit the bed. Perfect for any child who dreams of racing cars.

Promising review: " I bought this bed for my 3-year-old son. He loves cars and we were trying to motivate him to stay in his own bed. He loves his own bed and I have fallen back in love with my own bed."--Doognik Get it from Amazon for $252.89 2. Warmtree $100 Dollars Bill Funny Money Napkin This funny napkin is soft and comfortable,it looks and feels like real money, perfect for themed parties and interesting games.

Promising review: " Very happy with my purchase! Larger size than expected!"--Ashley Mcneil Get it from Amazon for $10.99 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 3. Children's Night Lights Touch Sensor Vibration Birdcage Chargeable Hand-held Lamp Made of ABS and PC+TPU,Food-grade premium quality,safe and non-toxic materials ;High emulation lawn cute round animal in clear cap glowing soft light (birdcage shape).Build in 700 mAh battery,Rechargeable and energy-saving with an USB line(1200mm) Charging time:5h, Battery life:15h;USB charge it by your computer or power bank, etc.Base switches with 3 modes :ON / OFF / VIBRATION.VIBRATION: three status of middle-bright, high-bright, turn off , lights will cycle when your hands touch the cage.

Promising review: " My daughter loves it. It is a great night light."--Lenka Hrebickova Get it from Amazon for $19.99 4. Totoro Anime LED Night Light Kid's Character Lamp USB Charge, Desk Night Table Reading Lamp Whimsical lamp in the shape of Totoro holding an umbrella. Totoro is a popular Japanese animation character, loved by adults as well as children. Soft light emanating from Totoro's stomach or his umbrella are perfect as a nightlight. Charges conveniently with USB, making the lamp useful for outdoor camping and travel. Charging Time: approx. 2~3 hours. Light lasts about 8~15 hours.

Promising review: " Great little lamp. Super bright! Recharges with USB cable (included). Light comes out his belly or from the umbrella. Again both are fairly bright. It comes in a box and you snap the umbrella into place. The box I received also advertised the fan variant, so it might confuse someone if you're giving this as a gift. Overall my 12 year old daughter loves it. Very good resemblance to the beloved Totoro from his classic film."--James Wyatt Get it from Amazon for $27.00 5. My Neighbor Totoro Sleeping Bag Sofa Bed Twin Bed Double Bed Mattress for Kids Bed sack: 100% Polyester *Inner padding: 80% Polyester, 20% Cotton *Overall Size: 230CM * 175CM (90” * 69”) *New Weight: 13KG *Tail Size: 80CM (31”)

Promising review: " I Absolutely Love this. This one from this seller is better than I expected. My daughter absolutely loves it. Absolutely NOT made cheaply. Now my other daughter wants to buy one for my granddaughter. It's huge and comfy and no need to add more stuffing although we thought we were gonna have to with some reviews. Also it has a zipper if you do wanna add stuffing or remove it to clean it. Absolutely 100 % Completely Satisfied and A Very Happy Birthday Girl who turned 10! "--Sonja Schlegel Get it from Amazon for $273.64 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 6. R/C Award Winning Tracer Racers High-Speed Remote Control Infinity Loop Track Set with Two Cars for Dual Racing Racing cars feature undercarriage lights that not only make these cars look almost like they are hovering rather than rolling - the lights also leave glowing streaks in their wake showing how the racers are "burning" up the track takes your racing to the next level with Tracer Racers High-Speed Remote Control Glow in the Dark Racing. Tracer Racer racing cars feature undercarriage lights that not only make these cars look almost like they are hovering rather than rolling - the lights also leave glowing streaks in their wake showing how the racers are "burning" up the track!

Promising review : " very good investment - not cheap, but will be used for many, many hours by my grandson and myself - so well worth the price - can see us buying more track pieces to create different designs - lots of fun to race, simple to charge - good quality product, did have an issue with one car when opened, called company and got immediate response - they sent new product out same day of call and I got it in 2 days - impressive - grandson loves hot wheel and RC cars - this is perfect for him - also light up track is very good - extra bonus!"--Wayne Get it from Amazon for $119.99 7. Hamburger Junior Beanbag Chair Fresh off the WOW! grill, The Double Stack beanbag is hot and ready! Warning: the delicious appearance of this superbly soft beanbag may cause slight drooling. Soft and cushy construction that lends a touch of whimsy for any area and is certainly a fun conversation piece. Digital printed fabric treatment projects real life-like appearance. Wow! Works bean bag unique chairs will wow you! Product Materials: Polyester, High-grade EPS Bead.

Promising review: " Bought it for my sons 9th birthday. It was a big hit! the chair is the perfect size and the print image is great. The only thing i didn't love is that the "beans" are really big. I am buy smaller filler to replace it."--TLC Get it from Amazon for $38.99 8. 95 Foot Zip Line Kit with Stainless Steel Spring Brake and Seat Our zip line used the 5.3 Foot Stainless Steel Spring Brake instead of the bungee cord braking system. All customers who have purchased our zip line before, if there is any problem with bungee cord braking system, please Contact us, we will help you replace the new Stainless Steel Spring Brake for free! This zip line meets the international quality standards (RoHS & CE) and can easily hold up to 250 lbs. Are you looking for a wonderful outdoor activity or a birthday gift that will help you bond with your kids and enjoy unforgettable moments? Look no further. Now you can spend endless hours of backyard fun with your children. Your backyard will instantly become a stunning amusement park, and you will become the neighbourhood’s coolest parent!

Promising review: " We LOVE this zip line! We were looking for something to draw our screen magnet youngest child outside with increased frequency. This fits the bill!! Installation was definitely a two-person job, just as we expected. It took us a part of a morning to put it up. Tightening it was a little tricky and required some trial and error on our part, but I'd call that operator error related to inexperience, not a flaw in the kit. We have installed a secondary brake just to add a back-up for safety. It's only been up for about five days but I bet we've made 500 trips down the line already. We have six children with an eighteen year age spread between them. All six have enjoyed multiple trips down the line along with their friends."--Dayna Strand Get it form Amazon for $161.27 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 9. Giant Inflatable Ride-On Banana Float Huge over-sized inflatable banana ride-on float enjoyed by kids and adults alike for a great pool experience. Use as a lounger or for just any fun pool activities. Made of durable heavy duty PVC and measures 59 inches long. Not recommended for kids under 6 years old and children should have adult supervision.

Promising review: " I got this as a gift for my friend, and didn't realize that it's likely meant for kids, so can't really handle adult weight as well. It made such a fun floatie to even try to get on top of the thing! It's basically the water version of the mechanical bull."--Mia Get it from Amazon for $16.99 10. Baby Kids Play Mat Foldable Soft and Washable Toys Storage Organizer Children Play Rugs with 59 inches Large Diameter Winthome toy storage bag can store the toys in order, no longer need to find toys everywhere. It is very Simple, Portable and Sturdy. Ideal solution for leaning up small toys like trains, cars, dolls, stuffed animals and more. Mummy's good friend. Use this to make sure your child is having fun without worrying about the mess.You can also bring it with you while you are outdoors, making sure your child is safer and more comfortable when playing.

Promising review: " Purchased this mat for our 7 month old daughter and it's absolutely perfect! Easy to sinch up and move into another room. Just enough padding to keep her comfortable on our hardwood floors. I was nervous to wash it but no change to the quality of the mat after washing it. It's big but not too big. Big Brother can easily join her for play and there's room for everyone. Highly recommend."--EmmyB Get it from Amazon for $29.99 11. Baby Play mat Kid's Puzzle Exercise Play Mat for Floor Crawl mat for Baby with XPE Foam Thicking 0.8in This baby mat is easy to Splice as puzzle and take it out.You can optionally splice baby play mat baby mat play mat playmat extra large foam play mat according to your preference. Depending on the size of the space, different shapesbaby play mat, baby mat,play mat,playmat extra large foam play mat. The play mat is big and thickening 0.8 inches and Changeable Size so easily .baby folding mat play mat extra large foam play mat play mat large foam baby crawl mat playmat foam folding play mat baby foam mat folding baby play mat foam play mat for baby folding mat for baby foam baby play mat .

Promising review: " I wish I come across this baby mat sooner... My daughter is almost 2 and the mat is perfect to put at Grandma's. She goes there a few days a week and Grandma likes that it is foldable so it can be put away when it's not in used and depending what toys they put out, Grandma can adjust the playmat accordingly. The material is good, the prints are cute, I cleaned it a few times with disinfectant wipes, easy to clean, no colors were wiped off. This mat can be used for tummy time, crawlers, and of course toddlers, I really like the foldable design."--Doleman Get it from Amazon for $49.99 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 12. Pool Floats for Kids - Llama Pool Float, Baby Floaties for Toddlers and Kids Baby water float and inflatable pool float features a unique trendy design for 2019 - only available from USA Toyz; these llama pool inflatables introduce little ones to these gentle South American animals. Let kids have fun splashing around with these swimming pool floats; this floaty for baby features 2 leg openings in the swimming ring for toddlers to sit safely, and should be used responsibly with adult supervision.

Promising review: " I loved this floaty. I loved that it is a cool llama, its actually fun to choose different animals / shapes every year, I had just become tired of the same old Aligator or Shark or even those flamingos that were popular the last couple of years. Llamas are cool, my kids got a huge kick out of it, and when their friends come over they also love it. It seems very sturdy, after a couple weeks and I don't know how many kids using it, it is still in tact as good as ever. The material seems thick and high quality. Nice design. I also think it is very reasonably priced for its size. I have seen floatys in the store for upwards of $50, so this was a great deal."--Julie S. Get it from Amazon for $15.99 13. Light Up Football : Glow in The Dark LED Ball Composite leather footballs and textured lace provides exceptional grip and control especially with Football Gloves, we’re talking solid spirals for days during your American football games. Butyl bladder locks in air for optimal pressure and shape retention for a consistent throwing during your football games. USES: Beach football, night-time football, recreational football games, playing in the pool, park, ootball practice.

Promising review : " Very cute- my son,Chance, will be thrilled when he gets it! "--SallySue Get it from Amazon for $24.99 14. Capture the Flag REDUX: The Original Glow-in-The-Dark Outdoor Game for Birthday It's the classic game of stealth, speed and strategy that people have enjoyed for over 90 years – now adapted for today's generation using glow-in-the-dark lights! It includes battery powered game pieces for jail markers, territory lights, light-up wristbands and glowing crystals that serve as each team's flag. With a fresh look and the added dynamic of low-light game play, this activity inspires people of all ages to put down their phones and do something active together. Learning how to play is easy. Your objective is to enter the other team’s territory, steal their Orb (aka “flag”) and get it back to your home side without getting tagged. Tagged players go to “jail” and must remain there until a teammate reaches them without getting tagged.

Promising review: " I am a youth minister and this game was used on our Fall 2016 Retreat. Was a huge hit! A couple lights went out and I emailed them about it a few months after and they sent new parts without any hassle. Extremely good customer service and a great product. Well worth it for any size group. My group is bigger than what this game gives arm bands for so we use cheap glow stick bracelets for extra team identifying."--Mason Cothren Get it from Amazon for $59.90 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 15. Anime Hooded Cloak Flannel Cape Hoodies for Sleep Nap Critter Blankets 100% brand new & high quality.Note:The snaps that connect the sleeves are the same which style just like the pictures.FUNCTIONAL:The versatility of this plush blanket allows to be a perfect camping, traveling, napping, playing, sleeping and reading companion.COMFORTABLE:Very soft and comfortable flannel,it can keep you warm in the winter or sleep under an air conditioning in office.OCCASION:You can use it as cosplay cloak,role play,Halloween,Christmas,all kinds of parties or daily wear.One Size:90*160cm(35.43*62.99inch).Package: a cloak.

Promising review: " I love it! It's super soft, the quality is way more than expected. I am just worried about the whiskers.... It might fall in the washing machine. And It should have a bigger version! So it could cover my whole body. SO cute!"--Bianca Get it from Amazon for $28.99 16. Glow Battle: A Light up Sword and Ninja Game Family, friends and neighbors play organized sword fighting games using (harmless!) glowing foam weapons. Choose from 10 different ways to play or create your own! The perfect interactive game for team building, icebreakers and developing strategy for large and small groups. Get youth off their screens using the 28 glowing game pieces included in this kit. Make exercise fun as boys and girls run, swing and dodge to win.

Promising review: " This is a really fun product for the family. The glow bracelets and swords stay lit for a long time. I love that the batteries are replaceable. I would recommend that you play outside since its an active game. The ONLY thing I didnt like is that at the end of the battle need swords is plastic and can hurt someones face, you know if you're getting crazy, like kids do! We use safety glasses as always with any sport. I didn't take pics because we are having too much fun. Also, fun for adults in the forests. Not even kidding."--crystal knigge Get it from Amazon for $49.90 17. Kids Kick Scooter w/ 3 Wheel Deck, Handle Bar Grips, Sit-or-Stand Removable Folding Seat Adventurous tots gain a smooth-gliding companion with this cool convertible Kick Scooter from Modera Kids. Designed to adjust as kids grow up and fine-tune their motor skills, the three wheeler features a foldable/removable seat, adjustable easy-grip handlebars, built-in back brake, extra wide anti-slip deck, front basket for toys, and an additional platform where toddlers can rest both feet while sitting.Like a balance bike, the scooter’s sturdy design and lean-to-turn wheels support little ones as they hone their coordination and control. Watch as they rip up the pavement and gain confidence on the road to adolescence! Parents also save a bundle with a toy that conveniently collapses and converts as kids get older. So give a gift that actually grows with them—add a sit-or-stand Kick Scooter to your cart today!

Promising review: " This is a awesome little scooter. My so t had played with it everyday since it arrived. Quality built and. It cheap as I was afraid it may have been. I’m super impressed."--J Guthrie Get it from Amazon for $49.99 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 18. Colored Clip in Hair Extensions 20 inch Rainbow Heat-Resistant Straight Highlight Hairpieces Cospaly Fashion Party Christmas Gift For Kids Girls 12 Color in 24 pcs Colored hair extension are affordable ,lightweight,and easy to apply,these color extension snap into your hair and can be taken out in a matter of seconds.High quality synthetic fiber,DIY your look you want ,and instant highlight without any chemical dye to damage your hair ,it is a perfect accessory for special occasions which can make you stand out from the crowed.Color:Bright red, lilac purple, pink, yellow, orange yellow, sapphire blue, fruity green, rose red, beige, violet, purple, vanilla green.

Promising review: " Sometimes I want to dye my hair a crazy color but I realize it would be expensive because my hair is long and dark. So I got this extensions pack to just try out colors. That way I have the fun hair colors without the commitment. It’s a good value for the amount of extensions that come in the pack. The clips are easy to put on and there are a lot of color options. I had more than enough colors so I gave some to my 6yr old niece and she had a lot of fun trying on the different hair colors."--Abbie Get it from Amazon for $14.99 19. Giant Beach Ball 6 ft Soccer Ball Diameter Extra Large Inflatable Beach Ball Pool Toy Jumbo Beach Ball 6 Feet Tall Beach Ball Inflatable Soccerball 12FT Pole-to-Pole Inflatable Beach Ball Pool Party BallsIntroduction:A huge size version of a classic sports ball! Kids and adults will have a blast chasing, kicking, and watching the ball soar. Add a unique touch of fun to any party, cookout, or beach day!Item Specification&Features:Material：Made of thick, durable 30mil vinyl with reinforced seamsSize: 6 Feet Tall/12FT from pole-to-poleLarge, secure airtight valve keeps air in and won't tear or detach from the vinylNew rapid valve allows for the fastest inflation and deflation compared to traditional valvesFun eye catching colors inspired by the classic beachball design, great for adults and kids of all agesThis is a great ball for kicking, punching, throwing, and climbing on top of .

Promising review : " This item is the size and style I expected when ordered. It arrived in the time frame that was given. It inflates and deflates great, no holes. I would order this again"--Lyndsi Donner Get it from Amazon for $49.99 20.Remote Control Car Boat Truck 4WD 6CH 2.4Ghz Land Water 2 in 1 RC Toy 360 Degree Spins and Flips- This is a multi-functional stunt rc car, unique design let it easy to complete 360 degree spins around, best gift for boy and girls.Waterproof Design- Equipped with waterproof rubber ring to protect inner accessory of the car which makes it possible to even drive on the water, amazing fun land & water rc toys.

Promising review: " I bought 2 of these are they were way more fun than I anticipated. My 5 year old daughter and I were driving them in and out of the surf for a good 20 minutes. They're not super fast, which was perfect. They're quick enough to be fun, but not so fast that my kids couldn't control it. I highly recommend this toy. I bought spare batteries too (all blue). and used my spare batteries first and they lasted over 20 min of near continuous use. Next I put in the batteries that came with them (one blue and one green). The blue one performed the same, but the green battery died after 5 minutes. I think I got a bad one since I charged again over night and it died quickly the next day."--Rory Get it from Amazon for $37.98 21. Water Balloon Launcher Water Balloons Slingshot Cannon 3 Persona Balloon Launcher 250 Yard Wheter you're having a party or looking for a wet and wild sort of battle, Whizbuilders balloon slingshot has you covered. Out water balloon launcher is the perfect choice for anyone that wants to rain down balloon filled with water on their friends and family to enjoy the surprise look on their faces. This 3 persons water balloon sling is designed to launch balloons further and faster. Our 3-person water balloon launcher can shoot a balloon up to 250 yards to surprise friends and family at backyard parties, pools and more.

Promising review: " This is exactly what we expected. So much fun, for adults and kids. With an adult on either side, and an adult pulling the sling shot - we were able to launch a water balloon from one backyard, across the street, and into another backyard. Totally worth it!! "-- Kristen Get it from Amazon for $16.97 Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers 2019 Read the full article

#gifted #kids #toddlers

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argonapricot · 7 years

Note

when you REBLOG IT do ALL OF THEM

1: Name - Julia

2: Age - the number of protons in an argon atom! My favorite element! That didn’t even occur to me until just now and I am delighted.

3: 3 Fears -

1. Plane crashes

2. Dementia

3. Bad things happening to pets

4: 3 things I love -

1. elves

2. Dvorak

3. making fun of you

5: 4 turns on

1. Linguistics

2. The end credit music from Attack of the Clones

3. Girls

4. Chord resolutions

6: 4 turns off

1. Sex

2. Existentialism

3. Depression

4. Logistical complications

7: My best friend - three of alex in a trenchcoat

8: Sexual orientation - homosexualism

9: My best first date - I’ve only had one! Unless you count Mackenzie Week which wow I sure don’t yikes

But yeah, the actual first date was cute af we were adorable and drenched

10: How tall am I - not tall enough

11: What do I miss - so much all the time, god. Having it be a normal and socially accessible activity to play pretend when you hang out with friends. Having a girlfriend, lol. Playing outside in the yard, my brother being a tiny little puffball. Being an impressive child. So many childhood things actually I’m an enormous sap. Not being depressed?

12: What time was I born - 7:02 in the evening, I think

13: Favorite color - poorple

14: Do I have a crush - um i have like 7 I’m bad at getting over people

15: Favorite quote - “the answer is six” - alex, that one time the answer wasn’t six

16: Favorite place - it’s a secret!

17: Favorite food - academic vigor

18: Do I use sarcasm - no of course not

19: What am I listening to right now - the clock trying to guilt me from across the room

20: First thing I notice in new person - whether or not they are painted green

21: Shoe size - 9/12

22: Eye color - Brown! Maybe like ¼ hazel

23: Hair color - also brown! It gets lighter in the summer, the sun bleaches it a bit.

24: Favorite style of clothing - gay

25: Ever done a prank call? - I used to prank call Clarissa every time I called her in like middle school, but it was always super obvious that it was me I think

27: Meaning behind my URL - my favorite element, paired with a handy dandy alliteration fruit that I enjoy

28: Favorite movie - Alex making a fool of herself

jk it’s I guess Lord of the Rings but I’m honestly so bad with favorites especially movies

29: Favorite song - I’ve been listening to Hurt by Johnny Cash a LOT lately, for fictional angst purposes and also it’s just a really good song

30: Favorite band - the Grady Knights Philharmonic

31: How I feel right now - sad that I’m only on number 31

32: Someone I love - Lee Pope

33: My current relationship status - so single you don’t even know

34: My relationship with my parents - good! I have great parents they are great!

35: Favorite holiday - I’ve only actually been to a Tu b’shvat seder once, but it was so incredibly rad and it’s a good holiday I approve of it.

36: Tattoos and piercing i have - none

37: Tattoos and piercing i want - none?

38: The reason I joined Tumblr - to get in on that sweet pjo fandom action

39: Do I and my last ex hate each other? nah bro @alphaj8de hi five

40: Do I ever get “good morning” or “good night ” texts? - I exchange “goodnights” with someone if we end a conversation by going to bed?

41: Have I ever kissed the last person you texted? - quite possibly!

42: When did I last hold hands? - I hold hands with Tolkien every day of my life

43: How long does it take me to get ready in the morning? - Depends on how slowly I get out of bed

44: Have I shaved your legs in the past three days? - yeah

45: Where am I right now? - on a couch

46: If I were drunk & can’t stand, who’s taking care of me? - fanfiction, probably, since all of my good caring friends are Leaving me to go to Party College, or alternatively Very Far Away And Stupidly Cold Stupid College

47: Do I like my music loud or at a reasonable level? - I like my music neurotically soft

48: Do I live with my Mom and Dad? - for the next like two months

49: Am I excited for anything? - college! Hannah’s lake house! garbage on the internet!

50: Do I have someone of the opposite sex I can tell everything to? - I rarely tell Everything to anyone

51: How often do I wear a fake smile? - I suck at fake smiles, and can only maintain them (when called for) in three-second bursts

52: When was the last time I hugged someone? - I hugged Benjamin earlier today

53: What if the last person I kissed was kissing someone else right in front of me? - I would stand there like a tool.

54: Is there anyone I trust even though I should not? - YEAH @cognitivelyagitated I can’t believe you took advantage of my eighth grade self like that and I can’t believe my eighth grade self was that stupid.

55: What is something I disliked about today? - Discord crashed and my online friend was not online.

56: If I could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be? - *mumblemumble*

57: What do I think about most? - characters doing Things

58: What’s my strangest talent? - I have the power to make sleeping possums knit

59: Do I have any strange phobias? - macaroni and cheese, also certain noises that make me flip out and cringe

60: Do I prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it? - I can go both ways!

61: What was the last lie I told? - the answer to that sarcasm question

62: Do I prefer talking on the phone or video chatting online? - what is communication

63: Do I believe in ghosts? How about aliens? - I don’t devote a lot of energy into having opinions on ghosts or aliens one way or the other.

64: Do I believe in magic? - sometimes

65: Do I believe in luck? - I mean luck is just the concept that sometimes good things happen and sometimes they don’t? So yeah, the experimental probability of good things that happen is a thing.

66: What’s the weather like right now? - hot and humid

67: What was the last book I’ve read? - I’m in the middle of like four books right now, the last one I finished was I think A Conjuring Of Light? In the shades of magic trilogy, which was hype.

68: Do I like the smell of gasoline? - no!

69: Do I have any nicknames? - julesliaia

70: What was the worst injury I’ve ever had? - I broke my arm in seventh grade

71: Do I spend money or save it? - both!

72: Can I touch my nose with a tongue? - no

73: Is there anything pink in 10 feet from me? - there are some pink things visible on the screen where this is being typed?

74: Favorite animal? - I like all kinds of cats

75: What was I doing last night at 12 AM? - watching Episode 3 of IDOL Drama Operation Team

76: What do I think is Satan’s last name is? - why would he have a last name

77: What’s a song that always makes me happy when I hear it? - I can’t think of the best answer right now

78: How can you win my heart? - elf appreciation

79: What would I want to be written on my tombstone? - my name would be nice

80: What is my favorite word? - right now, sepulchral

81: My top 5 blogs on tumblr - I don’t really rate tumblrs!

82: If the whole world were listening to me right now, what would I say? - stop! being stupid! stop being mean! Help the planet and also other people! I don’t know

83: Do I have any relatives in jail? - no

84: I accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what’s even cooler is that they endow me with the super-power of my choice! What is that power? - being able to sing well would be nice

85: What would be a question I’d be afraid to tell the truth on? - are you spending your time responsibly?

86: What is my current desktop picture? - Yosemite

87: Had sex? - y

88: Bought condoms? - n

89: Gotten pregnant? - n

90: Failed a class? - n

91: Kissed a boy? - n

92: Kissed a girl? - y

93: Have I ever kissed somebody in the rain? - I think so, yeah

94: Had job? - y

95: Left the house without my wallet? - y

96: Bullied someone on the internet? - n

97: Had sex in public? - nah that’s your gig

98: Played on a sports team? - I was a part of the Lucky Clovers soccer team in like 1st and 2nd grade

99: Smoked weed? - n

100: Did drugs? - n

101: Smoked cigarettes? - n

102: Drank alcohol? - some! on special occasions

103: Am I a vegetarian/vegan? - n

104: Been overweight? - n

105: Been underweight? - n

106: Been to a wedding? - Yeah, a couple!

107: Been on the computer for 5 hours straight? - ………..probably on some late nights, but that’s terrible and I feel ashamed and sad

108: Watched TV for 5 hours straight? - n

109: Been outside my home country? - twice! Once to Spain and once to Mexico

110: Gotten my heart broken? - There have been a couple instances of vague heart breakage idk

111: Been to a professional sports game? - during TIP camps, yes

112: Broken a bone? - y

114: Been to prom? - I was busy Killing It at Carnegie Hall

115: Been in airplane? - y

116: Fly by helicopter? - n

117: What concerts have I been to? - @queer-sighted took me to a Fall Out Boy concert two summers ago, which was lots of fun! I’ve been to a lot of ASO concerts that Mom gets tickets to for producing the show, and a bunch of other classical music occasions, and some concerts that I’ve played!

118: Had a crush on someone of the same sex? - yeah. like. a Lot.

119: Learned another language? - I learned some okay French

120: Wore make up? - y

121: Lost my virginity before I was 18? - y but virginity is dumb

122: Had oral sex? - y

123: Dyed my hair? - n

124: Voted in a presidential election? - I was too young!

125: Rode in an ambulance? - n

126: Had a surgery? - yeah, on my foot in second grade

127: Met someone famous? - my crush met Selena Gomez does that count

128: Stalked someone on a social network? - only a tiny bit

129: Peed outside? - of course

130: Been fishing? - I’ve stood near some people who were fishing sometimes

131: Helped with charity? - I’ve worked on a lot of tikkun olam projects? And volunteered places? And donated tzeddakah? I don’t know what specifically constitutes charity.

132: Been rejected by a crush? - only very indirectly I have the forthcoming romantic initiative of a slug

133: Broken a mirror? - no

134: What do I want for birthday? - ummmm books and mamamoo I guess? Maybe a new tablet

#long post #ask meme thing #alkaline earth muses

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theillustratorscourt-blog · 7 years

Text

Here I am! A day before June 2017 and frantically getting in several projects and written documents that needed tending to! I cannot even believe that it’s almost half way through this year already..

I’ve made a few new art pieces for my portfolio but still struggle with finding the creative energy to attack some of my narrative pieces, which I know I need. I also stare endlessly at my website and cannot see a solid style. My friends say they can tell, but to me, every art piece looks like it’s by a different artist. I’ve been trying to loosen up and create subject matter (and in my own way), that I actually want to create. Yes it’s important to look a the market you’re trying to break into and what the current trends and subjects are, but I create more fluidly and better when I just breathe and think about whatever it is I feel like drawing.

It feels impossible sometimes to be an artist. I have good days and bad days and they do NOT work with deadlines. I say to myself, “How can you create on days you have zero drive ?!”

Other days I’m bursting with creative energy and spend the entire day at my tablet. I just can’t seem to force this energy where it really needs to be. I do what I can, when I can and hope with all my might that in the days prior to a deadline, I can spew out good work, last minute, after having spent days just staring at the screen in a dark funk. I wouldn’t want to be anything else but it must be really nice to have jobs and careers that just require you to go through the motions and labor. I’ve yearned for a solid, reliable paycheck and consistent work that always had an intuitive map to lead me through from start to finish. That is just not how being an artist is, at least not how I have experienced it.

As a work from home mom, it’s awesome but is also difficult on the creative process. The current situation of not being able to close a door behind me to do computer work (since I have roommates and the computer is in the living room), is a challenge to say the least. My eldest son is out of school the end of this week and then it’s OFFICIALLY summer! I’m searching for jobs in the area that I could bring my kids too, since daycare is financially out of the question. So far…unlicensed childcares seems to be my only option. I’ve been interviewing around.

Being a young mother is a perk when interviewing since you’re inherently ahead of the 18-19 year old’s fresh out of high school, when it comes to the responsibility role. (If my 18 year old self could see me now, her jaw would drop haha) I FEEL that I am struggling to adult properly but really, I’m a far cry from where I was. Living expenses may be hard but my kids have made me such a better person; more patient, understanding and caring. I literally interact with people differently and view the world with a totally distinct perspective. I even think being a mom lends to creativity in a way, since watching how a child thinks, feels and deals with day to day life is excellent fodder for children’s illustrations.

I’ve still been nervously eyeing a few illustration agencies and then eyeing my portfolio, not sure whether I am ready to apply. A browse for ages through their represented artists and most have an obvious style. The art comes in all styles, from very realistic and polished to cartoony and simple, but 95% are chocked full of complete, pretty images that have narrative. How do I compare? Will I be turned down and never looked at again if I reapply? Can I get ANY advice from agencies or professionals on what to add? This is why I follow the SVSLearn team closely, and other resources, consistently reminding myself to add, add, add to my portfolio.

“Don’t put in what you don’t want to end up drawing for clients” is a hard one because, I want to show that I can draw a wide variety of stuff but I don’t want to get stuck drawing one of the things I hated drawing but someone happened to like. So many anxieties.

I am trying to create a sort of “This year’s style index,” based on Julia Patton’s, “Style Bible,” ideas. I’ve written in a notebook A-Z over several pages and filled each letter with things, animals, objects, foods etc. to draw and fill a bound side-portfolio (since I digitally create, I’d just be indexing these images on my computer and then, if I want to show them, print and stick them in a binder. It’s pure genius: a prospective client wants to know how you draw bids, cars, trees, fruit, water, men, women, expressions, seashells…The ideas are endless but the core ones are invaluable, especially for a children’s book artist. You’re supposed to update at least every year or when you think your style has changed. This is helpful for someone like me who feels they have several possible styles. I could just fill a page with different ways I’d draw dogs or aliens or unicorns or toasters, or maybe I only draw toasters one way; so I’d only draw one toaster.

This is a work in progress, as I have more ideas than I have had time to commit to the screen. Anyhow, this brings me back to wondering how I compare to currently represented illustrators. I know I lack some technical skills but I make up for that with the bizarre, nonsensical “style” I often dabble with when it comes to furniture, perspective and occasionally people. There’s thousands of artists who make a living with art that doesn’t represent perspective or anatomy but I’d like still like to improve my knowledge of how to create working anatomy, color theory, light and basic perspective, so that I can create better around those fundamentals. There is so much more I wanted to do in art college, as I learn better with an in-person instructor. I’ll need to make use of the online resources and instructors soon if I cannot go back to school next year.

I need to commit to some self-initiated projects. Other than overtly children-related illustration, I was considering labels and food packaging like wine, beer and baking, as I love so many of the labels I see but don’t have the faintest clue how you get hired for labeling. Art licensing maybe? I have a lot more to learn. My other idea is to create an illustrated commission infographic for my protentional freelance clients, since many do not have any prior knowledge about hiring illustrators freelance, cost or standard timelines etc. Basically, it’ll be an FAQ to all my most frequently received questions for hiring projects, but fun, colorful and illustrated!

So my sort of to-do’s are:

· still try to apply to some agencies,

· keep my eyes out for agents, work on the style index,

· Style Index

· start more self-initiated projects

· create some illustrated client-related commission info-graphs,

· create mailers and send

· work on the technical skills: anatomy, color theory, light, perspective

· set aside some savings (somehow) for moving, new computer/tablet etc.

· casually look for art related work in OR and prepare for the impending move.

· Continue being health conscious and take care of myself

Oh, I almost forgot (irony for what I am about to write), I was fortunate enough to be able to receive a full learning disability testing. I met for a month with a special doctor and did all kinds of tests, reading, writing, building with blocks, picture-finding: I felt like a chimp. All this was done to pinpoint what it was that has been hindering my entire life when it comes to mathematics and memory. Well, turns out, it is my “working memory,” and this issue is exactly what prevents me from being able to solve more than EXTREMELY basic mathematics, remembering phone numbers (or a variety of things), use any kind of formulas, and even remember what I am reading without re-reading and processing. I cannot explain how awesome and awful it is to know this. I am relieved that I finally have proper documentation for this most annoying detriment that has literally plagued me as far back in academics and jobs my entire existence. It’s also frustrating to really sit back and wonder about all the things I could have maybe accomplished without it. (I had wanted to be a pathologist once, lol.) At least now I know my learning style and have tips and reminders on how to process information better (most of which I was already doing- I practically live between my wall calendar, phone calendar and book planner. If I don’t write it down- I’m not remembering it.)

I expect to write back by end of july-early august? There’s lots of summer tasks to take care of. I lost 15lbs and have been doing very well with eating less calories, going on walks, light weight lifting and drinking lots of water (that one is the hardest). Here’s to toning up my butt! Haha

Sincerely,

An illustrator

#illustration #illustrator #motherhood #freelance #todolist #learningdisability #positivity #portfolio #childrensbooks #childrensillustrations #kidlit #kidlitart #kidlitartist #anon #blog #blogger

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wandashifflett · 4 years

Text

What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine | Bill Gates

What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine

Humankind has never had a more urgent task than creating broad immunity for coronavirus.

By Bill Gates

One of the questions I get asked the most these days is when the world will be able to go back to the way things were in December before the coronavirus pandemic. My answer is always the same: when we have an almost perfect drug to treat COVID-19, or when almost every person on the planet has been vaccinated against coronavirus.

The former is unlikely to happen anytime soon. We’d need a miracle treatment that was at least 95 percent effective to stop the outbreak. Most of the drug candidates right now are nowhere near that powerful. They could save a lot of lives, but they aren’t enough to get us back to normal.

Which leaves us with a vaccine.

Humankind has never had a more urgent task than creating broad immunity for coronavirus. Realistically, if we’re going to return to normal, we need to develop a safe, effective vaccine. We need to make billions of doses, we need to get them out to every part of the world, and we need all of this to happen as quickly as possible.

That sounds daunting, because it is. Our foundation is the biggest funder of vaccines in the world, and this effort dwarfs anything we’ve ever worked on before. It’s going to require a global cooperative effort like the world has never seen. But I know it’ll get done. There’s simply no alternative.

Here’s what you need to know about the race to create a COVID-19 vaccine.

The world is creating this vaccine on a historically fast timeline.

Dr. Anthony Fauci has said he thinks it’ll take around eighteen months to develop a coronavirus vaccine. I agree with him, though it could be as little as 9 months or as long as two years.

Although eighteen months might sound like a long time, this would be the fastest scientists have created a new vaccine. Development usually takes around five years. Once you pick a disease to target, you have to create the vaccine and test it on animals. Then you begin testing for safety and efficacy in humans.

Safety and efficacy are the two most important goals for every vaccine. Safety is exactly what it sounds like: is the vaccine safe to give to people? Some minor side effects (like a mild fever or injection site pain) can be acceptable, but you don’t want to inoculate people with something that makes them sick.

Efficacy measures how well the vaccine protects you from getting sick. Although you’d ideally want a vaccine to have 100 percent efficacy, many don’t. For example, this year’s flu vaccine is around 45 percent effective.

To test for safety and efficacy, every vaccine goes through three phases of trials:

Phase one is the safety trial. A small group of healthy volunteers gets the vaccine candidate. You try out different dosages to create the strongest immune response at the lowest effective dose without serious side effects.

Once you’ve settled on a formula, you move onto phase two, which tells you how well the vaccine works in the people who are intended to get it. This time, hundreds of people get the vaccine. This cohort should include people of different ages and health statuses.

Then, in phase three, you give it to thousands of people. This is usually the longest phase, because it occurs in what’s called “natural disease conditions.” You introduce it to a large group of people who are likely already at the risk of infection by the target pathogen, and then wait and see if the vaccine reduces how many people get sick.

After the vaccine passes all three trial phases, you start building the factories to manufacture it, and it gets submitted to the WHO and various government agencies for approval.

This process works well for most vaccines, but the normal development timeline isn’t good enough right now. Every day we can cut from this process will make a huge difference to the world in terms of saving lives and reducing trillions of dollars in economic damage.

So, to speed up the process, vaccine developers are compressing the timeline. This graphic shows how:

In the traditional process, the steps are sequential to address key questions and unknowns. This can help mitigate financial risk, since creating a new vaccine is expensive. Many candidates fail, which is why companies wait to invest in the next step until they know the previous step was successful.

For COVID-19, financing development is not an issue. Governments and other organizations (including our foundation and an amazing alliance called the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations) have made it clear they will support whatever it takes to find a vaccine. So, scientists are able to save time by doing several of the development steps at once. For example, the private sector, governments, and our foundation are going to start identifying facilities to manufacture different potential vaccines. If some of those facilities end up going unused, that’s okay. It’s a small price to pay for getting ahead on production.

Fortunately, compressing the trial timeline isn’t the only way to take a process that usually takes five years and get it done in 18 months. Another way we’re going to do that is by testing lots of different approaches at the same time.

There are dozens of candidates in the pipeline.

As of April 9, there are 115 different COVID-19 vaccine candidates in the development pipeline. I think that eight to ten of those look particularly promising. (Our foundation is going to keep an eye on all the others to see if we missed any that have some positive characteristics, though.)

youtube

The most promising candidates take a variety of approaches to protecting the body against COVID-19. To understand what exactly that means, it’s helpful to remember how the human immune system works.

When a disease pathogen gets into your system, your immune system responds by producing antibodies. These antibodies attach themselves to substances called antigens on the surface of the microbe, which sends a signal to your body to attack. Your immune system keeps a record of every microbe it has ever defeated, so that it can quickly recognize and destroy invaders before they make you ill.

Vaccines circumvent this whole process by teaching your body how to defeat a pathogen without ever getting sick. The two most common types—and the ones you’re probably most familiar with—are inactivated and livevaccines. Inactivated vaccines contain pathogens that have been killed. Live vaccines, on the other hand, are made of living pathogens that have been weakened (or “attenuated”). They’re highly effective but more prone to side effects than their inactivated counterparts.

Inactivated and live vaccines are what we consider “traditional” approaches. There are a number of COVID-19 vaccine candidates of both types, and for good reason: they’re well-established. We know how to test and manufacture them.

The downside is that they’re time-consuming to make. There’s a ton of material in each dose of a vaccine. Most of that material is biological, which means you have to grow it. That takes time, unfortunately.

That’s why I’m particularly excited by two new approaches that some of the candidates are taking: RNA and DNA vaccines. If one of these new approaches pans out, we’ll likely be able to get vaccines out to the whole world much faster. (For the sake of simplicity, I’m only going to explain RNA vaccines. DNA vaccines are similar, just with a different type of genetic material and method of administration.)

Our foundation—both through our own funding and through CEPI—has been supporting the development of an RNA vaccine platform for nearly a decade. We were planning to use it to make vaccines for diseases that affect the poor like malaria, but now it’s looking like one of the most promising options for COVID. The first candidate to start human trials was an RNA vaccine created by a company called Moderna.

Here’s how an RNA vaccine works: rather than injecting a pathogen’s antigen into your body, you instead give the body the genetic code needed to produce that antigen itself. When the antigens appear on the outside of your cells, your immune system attacks them—and learns how to defeat future intruders in the process. You essentially turn your body into its own vaccine manufacturing unit.

Because RNA vaccines let your body do most of the work, they don’t require much material. That makes them much faster to manufacture. There’s a catch, though: we don’t know for sure yet if RNA is a viable platform for vaccines. Since COVID would be the first RNA vaccine out of the gate, we have to prove both that the platform itself works and that it creates immunity. It’s a bit like building your computer system and your first piece of software at the same time.

Even if an RNA vaccine continues to show promise, we still must continue pursuing the other options. We don’t know yet what the COVID-19 vaccine will look like. Until we do, we have to go full steam ahead on as many approaches as possible.

It might not be a perfect vaccine yet—and that’s okay.

The smallpox vaccine is the only vaccine that’s wiped an entire disease off the face of the earth, but it’s also pretty brutal to receive. It left a scar on the arm of anyone who got it. One out of every three people had side effects bad enough to keep them home from school or work. A small—but not insignificant—number developed more serious reactions.

The smallpox vaccine was far from perfect, but it got the job done. The COVID-19 vaccine might be similar.

If we were designing the perfect vaccine, we’d want it to be completely safe and 100 percent effective. It should be a single dose that gives you lifelong protection, and it should be easy to store and transport. I hope the COVID-19 vaccine has all of those qualities, but given the timeline we’re on, it may not.

The two priorities, as I mentioned earlier, are safety and efficacy. Since we might not have time to do multi-year studies, we will have to conduct robust phase 1 safety trials and make sure we have good real-world evidence that the vaccine is completely safe to use.

We have a bit more wiggle room with efficacy. I suspect a vaccine that is at least 70 percent effective will be enough to stop the outbreak. A 60 percent effective vaccine is useable, but we might still see some localized outbreaks. Anything under 60 percent is unlikely to create enough herd immunity to stop the virus.

The big challenge will be making sure the vaccine works well in older people. The older you are, the less effective vaccines are. Your immune system—like the rest of your body—ages and is slower to recognize and attack invaders. That’s a big issue for a COVID-19 vaccine, since older people are the most vulnerable. We need to make sure they’re protected.

The shingles vaccine—which is also targeted to older people—combats this by amping up the strength of the vaccine. It’s possible we do something similar for COVID, although it might come with more side effects. Health authorities could also ask people over a certain age to get an additional dose.

Beyond safety and efficacy, there are a couple other factors to consider:

How many doses will it be? A vaccine you only get once is easier and quicker to deliver. But we may need a multi-dose vaccine to get enough efficacy.

How long does it last? Ideally, the vaccine will give you long-lasting protection. But we might end up with one that only stops you from getting sick for a couple months (like the seasonal flu vaccine, which protects you for about six months). If that happens, the short-term vaccine might be used while we work on a more durable one.

How do you store it? Many common vaccines are kept at 4 degrees C. That’s around the temperature of your average refrigerator, so storage and transportation is easy. But RNA vaccines need to be stored at much colder temperature—as low as -80 degrees C—which will make reaching certain parts of the world more difficult.

My hope is that the vaccine we have 18 months from now is as close to “perfect” as possible. Even if it isn’t, we will continue working to improve it. After that happens, I suspect the COVID-19 vaccine will become part of the routine newborn immunization schedule.

Once we have a vaccine, though, we still have huge problems to solve. That’s because…

We need to manufacture and distribute at least 7 billion doses of the vaccine.

In order to stop the pandemic, we need to make the vaccine available to almost every person on the planet. We’ve never delivered something to every corner of the world before. And, as I mentioned earlier, vaccines are particularly difficult to make and store.

There’s a lot we can’t figure out about manufacturing and distributing the vaccine until we know what exactly we’re working with. For example, will we be able to use existing vaccine factories to make the COVID-19 vaccine?

What we can do now is build different kinds of vaccine factories to prepare. Each vaccine type requires a different kind of factory. We need to be ready with facilities that can make each type, so that we can start manufacturing the final vaccine (or vaccines) as soon as we can. This will cost billions of dollars. Governments need to quickly find a mechanism for making the funding for this available. Our foundation is currently working with CEPI, the WHO, and governments to figure out the financing.

Part of those discussions center on who will get the vaccine when. The reality is that not everyone will be able to get the vaccine at the same time. It’ll take months—or even years—to create 7 billion doses (or possibly 14 billion, if it’s a multi-dose vaccine), and we should start distributing them as soon as the first batch is ready to go.

Most people agree that health workers should get the vaccine first. But who gets it next? Older people? Teachers? Workers in essential jobs?

I think that low-income countries should be some of the first to receive it, because people will be at a much higher risk of dying in those places. COVID-19 will spread much quicker in poor countries because measures like physical distancing are harder to enact. More people have poor underlying health that makes them more vulnerable to complications, and weak health systems will make it harder for them to receive the care they need. Getting the vaccine out in low-income countries could save millions of lives. The good news is we already have an organization with expertise about how to do this in Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

With most vaccines, manufacturers sign a deal with the country where their factories are located, so that country gets first crack at the vaccines. It’s unclear if that’s what will happen here. I hope we find a way to get it out on an equitable basis to the whole world. The WHO and national health authorities will need to develop a distribution plan once we have a better understanding of what we’re working with.

Eventually, though, we’re going to scale this thing up so that the vaccine is available to everyone. And then, we’ll be able to get back to normal—and to hopefully make decisions that prevent us from being in this situation ever again.

It might be a bit hard to see right now, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. We’re doing the right things to get a vaccine as quickly as possible. In the meantime, I urge you to continue following the guidelines set by your local authorities. Our ability to get through this outbreak will depend on everyone doing their part to keep each other safe.

from Rayfield Review News https://therayfield.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-covid-19-vaccine-bill-gates from The Ray Field https://therayfieldreview.tumblr.com/post/623551958821797888

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therayfieldreview · 4 years

Text

What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine | Bill Gates

What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine

Humankind has never had a more urgent task than creating broad immunity for coronavirus.

By Bill Gates

Which leaves us with a vaccine.

Here’s what you need to know about the race to create a COVID-19 vaccine.

The world is creating this vaccine on a historically fast timeline.

Dr. Anthony Fauci has said he thinks it’ll take around eighteen months to develop a coronavirus vaccine. I agree with him, though it could be as little as 9 months or as long as two years.

To test for safety and efficacy, every vaccine goes through three phases of trials:

After the vaccine passes all three trial phases, you start building the factories to manufacture it, and it gets submitted to the WHO and various government agencies for approval.

So, to speed up the process, vaccine developers are compressing the timeline. This graphic shows how:

There are dozens of candidates in the pipeline.

youtube

Vaccines circumvent this whole process by teaching your body how to defeat a pathogen without ever getting sick. The two most common types—and the ones you’re probably most familiar with—are inactivated and live vaccines. Inactivated vaccines contain pathogens that have been killed. Live vaccines, on the other hand, are made of living pathogens that have been weakened (or “attenuated”). They’re highly effective but more prone to side effects than their inactivated counterparts.

It might not be a perfect vaccine yet—and that’s okay.

The smallpox vaccine was far from perfect, but it got the job done. The COVID-19 vaccine might be similar.

Beyond safety and efficacy, there are a couple other factors to consider:

How many doses will it be? A vaccine you only get once is easier and quicker to deliver. But we may need a multi-dose vaccine to get enough efficacy.

Once we have a vaccine, though, we still have huge problems to solve. That’s because…

We need to manufacture and distribute at least 7 billion doses of the vaccine.

Most people agree that health workers should get the vaccine first. But who gets it next? Older people? Teachers? Workers in essential jobs?

from Rayfield Review News https://therayfield.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-covid-19-vaccine-bill-gates

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enacclimatechangethings · 4 years

Text

Alex François 18/03

What I actually do on my daily scale:

Composting.

-How? By sorting food each time I cook. I put fruit and vegetables remains, eggshells, fish, grains into a separate bin that I’ll bring later to the composting area at the ENAC.

-Why? To avoid creating food waste. I hate wasting any kind of food, so I’ll do anything to save those I can’t eat and let them be useful. Therefore I also help the ENAC BDS to have a better compost.

-What if we do it perfectly? We could save money if the compost is used for personnal planting, no need to buy chemical fertilizers, and as it does help to retain soil moisture, we have to water less. Not to mention the improvement of the soil, that receinves multiple nutrients. Also resources are saved, more than 40% of residential waste is compostable materials. We thus create cycles to plant durably. Finally, the impact of CO2 emissions is reduced by doing so : less vehicules are required to transport waste and organics do not produce any C02 emission by being composted.

-What if we don’t? Ironically, not composting actually isn’t neutral for the environment, but rather bad. Indeed, organics in landfills break down without oxygen to produce methane gas, which is 20 times more harmful than CO2. Buried organics can also react with metals in the landfill to produce toxic leachate, a potential source of groundwater pollution. "Why should I compost?", Justin Quigley

Every day, 1.3 billion tonnes of food is wasted globally each year (1/3 for human consumption) according to the FAO. Among them, food that could have been eaten even if expired, others that could have been composted.

If you’ve been conviced and want to try composting, here are some advices to begin: Composting - Guide.

Not eating meat.

-How? By neither consumming nor buying any king of meat, and a very few fishes. Being cautious when buying on the supermarket or eating at the canteen not to take those.

-Why? The main reasons that prompted this decision were the ethical point of view. I knew that one day I would stop eating meat. But besides the ethical, healthy and cheap sides of being vegetarian, not eating meat has numerous environnemental benefits, which are nowadays beyond question.

-What if we do it perfectly? Being vegetarian (or vegan) will ward off disease, keep your weight down, build stronger bones, reduce your risk of food-borne illnesses, and let you live longer for instance! For an environmental point of view, you’ll avoid toxic chemicals. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 95% of the pesticide residue in the typical American diet comes from meat, fish and dairy products! That would also greatly help reduce pollution: chemical and animal waste runoff from factory farms are responsible for more than 173 000 miles of pulluted rivers and streams. Without getting into all the details: the United Nations said in a report that only livestock generate more greenhouse gases than all the cars and trucks in the world combined! Not to mention all the water and the lands needed to farm them!

-What if we don’t? You’re now aware. Consuming meat has a lot of environmental impacts: deforestation, huge greenhouse gases emissions, gigantic use of water, use of chemical products. If you tell yourself that the greenhouse gas effects of eating 1 burger amounts to drive an average European car for 320km (and 3000L of water), maybe you’ll reconsider buying a brand new electrical car to go to the restaurant. Emissions of eating one burger

I’d have much more to say about the actions I daily do for the environmental issues. Here are briefly other things I’ve also decided to do:

-Waste sorting. I sort papers, metal and glass from plastic for example.

-Carpooling/public transportation/bike. If possible, I always use my bike to move from place to place (which is also convenient). Otherwise, I use the public transports or the carpooling if I need to go on another city in France, not too far away.

-Buying carefully packaging. As far as possible, I try not to buy plastic packaging food/tools. Sometimes that is more expensive or hard to find, but when I’m looking at all the waste I can do at the months passed, that gives me courage to search.

-Saving water. I try to save water during the showers (turn off the water when useless) and when I do the dishes, by improving my skills.

-Reducing energy consumption. I turn off the lights and the heating when not needed. I think that kind of actions could make a difference. However I somethimes consumes lots of energy by using my computer through video games or cooking in the oven...

Nevertheless, all these actions are little things compared to the exponential growth of life comfort we are facing! There are so many things we should do either to compensate other’s actions, or to compensate ours that we do not necessarily perceive!

Buying an apartment/house, a new phone/computer, solar panels, clothes, food, books; as many things that pollute, are (non-renewable) energy-consuming, or that consume non-recyclable materials! Just look at how many plastic tools/equipment there are around you. We’ve reached a point where the energy and rare materials aren’t just used to improve our lives. But to maintain it the way it is.

Everything we own has been – to some extent - produced with nuclear or fossil fuel. Everywhere you want to go, you have to take airplanes, cars, buses or trains. Every time you practice an activity, you may use items that created pollution. As the computer I’m using right now to write those sentances.

That is difficult and expensive to put into practice – a clean zero pollution lifestyle – which wouldn’t pollute nor cost our planet sacrifices. If we all want to keep on this planet though, as well as our next generations, we should surely tackle this problem together seriously… Together, we can make a difference.

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douglassmiith · 4 years

Text

How to Save Your Consulting Business by Shifting Online

Leverage technology and processes to maintain your consulting business online.

March 17, 2020 11 min read

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

With an increasing number of people working from home or practicing other forms of social distancing, it can be challenging to maintain a consulting business. All the plans and projections you’ve established can easily change on a day-to-day basis, leaving you concerned about how you’ll be able to sustain your business.

Although this situation is globally challenging, the solution for many consultants is clear: offer remote services.

I’ve worked as a business consultant for the past five years, 95 percent of my business is done remotely. Initially, this was done out of necessity, it was too challenging to consult onsite in Manhattan and make it back home to Brooklyn so I could pick up my children from daycare. Over time, I discovered it was much more efficient, and allowed me to grow my business by working with clients in other regions. I could also stack more meetings back to back — no commuting between appointments — allowing me to generate more revenue in a shorter period of time. This same skill (knowing how to effectively share knowledge remotely) proved useful as I started speaking at online conferences, some of them such at SEM Rush’s Global Marketing Day and Teachable’s Reach Summit draw more than 50,000 attendees.

My initial disadvantage, the need to work remotely, eventually became an extremely valuable skill. During my upcoming webinar How and Why to Shift Your Consulting or Speaking Business Online. I’ll teach you how to do the same. It’s free to attend and takes place on April 1st at 3 pm EST. Assuming you can’t wait until then to start transitioning your business, I’ve provided some immediate advice below. I should note, there are several “how to work remotely” articles going around these days. Check them out, I’m sure you’ll gain valuable insights. My goal with this article is to solely focus on the immediate needs of consultants.

Getting client buy-in for remote consulting

The first hurdle you’ll need to get over is making your clients feel comfortable with the value you can deliver remotely. In some cases, your impact may be diminished, acknowledge it. However, the value you’re still able to offer is most likely better than nothing at all. Be sure to stress the benefit of doing something as opposed to waiting for weeks, possibly months, for in-person meetings to occur. This may not be the ideal situation for many clients, but it’s not something we can avoid either. Or, as my dad would say, “It is what it is, now what are you going to do about it.” Don’t say that, but you get my point. You can also ease these concerns by being prepared with a plan of how you’ll move forward.

“I know this is a challenging situation but I have a solution that will help. We’re going to hold all meetings through a video conferencing platform, which I’ll record in case some of your team members are unavailable to attend. I’ve also created a Slack channel to make it easier for you and your team to ask one-off questions while you’re juggling additional responsibilities. My working hours will remain the same, but I understand you may have to ask questions based on your availability. I’ll do my best to accommodate.”

Related: 5 Questions Every Consultant Must Ask During a Sales Call

Leverage the right apps and gear

Set yourself up for success by leveraging the right apps and gear from the start. Below are a few of my favorites, you can see a complete list by checking out the Consultant Toolkit on my website.

Zoom

This tool is designed for hosting webinars, teaching online courses, conducting online training and video conferences. With the majority of my consulting taking place remotely, I use it almost daily. I’m also leveraging it for all my in-person speaking opportunities that have shifted to online. Although Google Hangouts offers some of the same features, Zoom allows you to record meetings. This is extremely helpful since it reduces the amount of notes your clients have to take. This will help them better focus on you, and the value you’re delivering. Beyond that, not everyone will be able to attend meetings live for one reason or another. Recording meetings makes the content accessible to everyone and simplifies the scheduling process.

Pro tip: Download the app as opposed to using the browser version. You’ll be less likely to experience lag, especially if you’re on a slower connection.

Yondo

Yondo allows anyone to sell live online consultations and videos on their own website. As previously mentioned, this is the tool used for Entrepreneur’s Ask an Expert platform. One of my favorite features is the ability to set your availability for consulting sessions, which syncs with your Google Calendar. No need to go back and forth coordinating, the client just selects a time and then pays immediately upon booking. No need to invoice!

Pro tip: Next time someone asks to “pick your brain”, send them a link to your Yondo account so they can pay you for your knowledge!

Again, I recommend recording these sessions. You should also consider adding a link to your Yondo account in the main navigation of your website. Over time, you’ll discover people booking paid sessions with you that you’ve never directly interacted with. Maybe they read an insightful blog you wrote or heard you speak on a podcast. In order to make the best use of everyone’s time, I also suggest providing a pre-call questionnaire. You can use this to collect some basic information and avoid saying things like “So, what’s your website? Is that .com or .co?”

As you can see, there’s some overlap between Zoom and Yondo. I use Zoom for long-term consulting engagements since these clients usually pay on a monthly basis. I leverage Yondo for hourly consulting. Again, there’s no need to invoice and your calendar is always up to date. I also include a link to Yondo in my signature to make it easier for people to immediately book a paid consultation with me.

HoneyBook

HoneyBook is an integrated project management, proposal, billing and invoicing software designed to help you automate various operational processes. Since you may be juggling other responsibilities while working remotely, this is a great way to get some time back. The ability to quickly send proposals and invoices is one of my favorite features. Once you have these setup, it takes about 5 minutes to send them out. Your clients can sign contracts online, which is beneficial since many of them may not have access to a scanner or printer.

HoneyBook also has a great mobile app, allowing you to keep track of all your invoices and upcoming payments without hopping on your laptop.

Pro tip: During times of uncertainty, it’s beneficial to bill clients on a retainer or project basis as opposed to hourly. This will make it much easier for you to forecast revenue, which will reduce stress.

Audio/visual gear

You may be working from a noisier environment than you’re used to, investing in a pair of noise-canceling headphones can be rather clutch. You’ll be able to hear better during meetings and lock in more while working. I’ve been wearing Bose for years and depend on them so much that I have one pair at home and one at my office. That said, you may be able to get away with the earphones that came with your phone. Either way, please don’t use the mic from your computer! It doesn’t work, even if you awkwardly lean towards it.

In regards to a camera, the one on your computer should be fine, but you can obviously get a webcam as well. That said, now isn’t the time to buy stuff just to buy stuff. See how things go with your built-in camera before investing in an external one. Depending on your working environment — and the clients you work with — you may also want to get a backdrop so you have a more professional looking background. You can purchase something for less than $100 on Amazon but this also falls into the category of not buying stuff just to buy it. My new “office” has been my daughter’s bedroom for the past four years so clients shouldn’t be shocked to see PJ Masks toys in the background. My hope and expectation is that everyone acknowledges we’re all doing the best we can these days.

Regardless of your background, the wrong lighting can take away from the experience you’re delivering, a $20 selfie light can help you avoid this issue. Many of them also come with a cell phone holder which makes it way easier to create video content for Social.

Pro tip: Now is the time for you to start creating and/or releasing valuable content. If you’re stuck, think of 10 questions your audience has, then answer them with content.

Related: How to Start a Consulting Business: Get Ready to Launch

Internet connection

If possible, use an Ethernet cable. Nothing ruins an online meeting faster than someone losing connection or — even worse — getting frozen with a silly look on their face. It makes the meeting go longer and interrupts the flow. Beyond that, if someone is paying you by the hour, you’re literally wasting their time and money. You can also get a signal booster or invest in a solution like Nest Wifi from Google. According to their website “Nest Wifi blankets your whole home in fast, reliable Wi‑Fi and keeps buffering at bay in every room.”

A steady internet connection is critical, invest money into solving for this if needed and available.

Related: 10 Golden Rules for Digital Entrepreneurs of This Decade

Emotional intelligence and soft skills

Working remotely may be new to the clients you interact with. Acknowledge this from the start and provide guidance to make them — and yourself — more comfortable. As a general rule, I prefer everyone to have their cameras on. It makes for a more personal experience and you can pick up a lot from non-verbal gestures. If someone has their camera off, I usually make a joke of it by saying “I’m going to assume you’re not catfishing me, but it would be great if you could turn your camera on”. Feel free to steal that one. This usually gets most people to turn their cameras on (or at least laugh) but you also want to respect boundaries. The person you’re talking to might be caring for a child, or may not want to be on camera for various other reasons. Although talking to a blank screen can be a bit of drag, you can maintain a high level of energy and just by standing up.

You should also expect technology hiccups to occur, your response will be crucial as to how your audience responds. Years ago, Adi Hanash taught me how to lead online classes through my role at General Assembly, a school that teaches the job skills of tomorrow. He shares a piece of advice “Smile through the problems. As the online host, people will be looking to you to make sure things are perfectly normal. So if problems come up, smiling as you handle them gives the audience confidence that you have things under control and will buy you some leeway as you handle any issues that have come up.”

To paraphrase, “Don’t freak out”. These days, not freaking out is probably good advice for all of us, regardless of the context.

Do you need help shifting your services online, or have other questions related to growing your business? Book at 1:1 session with me through Entrepreneur’s Ask an Expert platform.

Website Design & SEO Delray Beach by DBL07.co

Delray Beach SEO

Via http://www.scpie.org/how-to-save-your-consulting-business-by-shifting-online/

source https://scpie.weebly.com/blog/how-to-save-your-consulting-business-by-shifting-online

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laurelkrugerr · 4 years

Text

How to Save Your Consulting Business by Shifting Online

Leverage technology and processes to maintain your consulting business online.

March 17, 2020 11 min read

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Although this situation is globally challenging, the solution for many consultants is clear: offer remote services.

Getting client buy-in for remote consulting

Related: 5 Questions Every Consultant Must Ask During a Sales Call

Leverage the right apps and gear

Set yourself up for success by leveraging the right apps and gear from the start. Below are a few of my favorites, you can see a complete list by checking out the Consultant Toolkit on my website.

Zoom

Pro tip: Download the app as opposed to using the browser version. You’ll be less likely to experience lag, especially if you’re on a slower connection.

Yondo

Pro tip: Next time someone asks to “pick your brain”, send them a link to your Yondo account so they can pay you for your knowledge!

HoneyBook

HoneyBook also has a great mobile app, allowing you to keep track of all your invoices and upcoming payments without hopping on your laptop.

Audio/visual gear

Pro tip: Now is the time for you to start creating and/or releasing valuable content. If you’re stuck, think of 10 questions your audience has, then answer them with content.

Related: How to Start a Consulting Business: Get Ready to Launch

Internet connection

A steady internet connection is critical, invest money into solving for this if needed and available.

Related: 10 Golden Rules for Digital Entrepreneurs of This Decade

Emotional intelligence and soft skills

To paraphrase, “Don’t freak out”. These days, not freaking out is probably good advice for all of us, regardless of the context.

Do you need help shifting your services online, or have other questions related to growing your business? Book at 1:1 session with me through Entrepreneur’s Ask an Expert platform.

Website Design & SEO Delray Beach by DBL07.co

Delray Beach SEO

source http://www.scpie.org/how-to-save-your-consulting-business-by-shifting-online/ source https://scpie1.blogspot.com/2020/03/how-to-save-your-consulting-business-by.html

0 notes

riichardwilson · 4 years

Text

How to Save Your Consulting Business by Shifting Online

Leverage technology and processes to maintain your consulting business online.

March 17, 2020 11 min read

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Although this situation is globally challenging, the solution for many consultants is clear: offer remote services.

Getting client buy-in for remote consulting

Related: 5 Questions Every Consultant Must Ask During a Sales Call

Leverage the right apps and gear

Set yourself up for success by leveraging the right apps and gear from the start. Below are a few of my favorites, you can see a complete list by checking out the Consultant Toolkit on my website.

Zoom

Pro tip: Download the app as opposed to using the browser version. You’ll be less likely to experience lag, especially if you’re on a slower connection.

Yondo

Pro tip: Next time someone asks to “pick your brain”, send them a link to your Yondo account so they can pay you for your knowledge!

HoneyBook

HoneyBook also has a great mobile app, allowing you to keep track of all your invoices and upcoming payments without hopping on your laptop.

Audio/visual gear

Pro tip: Now is the time for you to start creating and/or releasing valuable content. If you’re stuck, think of 10 questions your audience has, then answer them with content.

Related: How to Start a Consulting Business: Get Ready to Launch

Internet connection

A steady internet connection is critical, invest money into solving for this if needed and available.

Related: 10 Golden Rules for Digital Entrepreneurs of This Decade

Emotional intelligence and soft skills

To paraphrase, “Don’t freak out”. These days, not freaking out is probably good advice for all of us, regardless of the context.

Do you need help shifting your services online, or have other questions related to growing your business? Book at 1:1 session with me through Entrepreneur’s Ask an Expert platform.

Website Design & SEO Delray Beach by DBL07.co

Delray Beach SEO

source http://www.scpie.org/how-to-save-your-consulting-business-by-shifting-online/ source https://scpie.tumblr.com/post/612855296773226496

0 notes