#I looked up the website of one near me to see what the experience might be like

[solarmorrigan]

Sweet Reward

For the @steddie-spooktober day 10 prompt: Orchard Rated: G | Words: 657 | CW: None | Tags: established relationship, fluff Divider credit: @steddiecameraroll-graphics

Eddie lights up the moment they reach the gift shop, ignoring the shelves of gardening tools and kitschy yard decorations and zeroing in on the display at the back.

“You did not disclose,” he says, crossing the little shop in a couple of surprisingly lively bounds for someone who’d just claimed to be tired of walking, “that there would be doughnuts.”

The whole display is dedicated to local products and items made with produce from the orchard. There’s apple butter and pear jam, a few apple pies and pear tarts, local honey, and, of course, apple cider doughnuts.

“I didn’t know,” Steve says. “I just wanted to pick some apples.”

“We should get some,” Eddie says, hands twitching at his sides like he’s barely stopping himself from reaching out and grabbing a box.

“We don’t need doughnuts, Eddie.” Steve shakes his head.

Eddie scoffs. “No one needs doughnuts. But today we have walked long and far–”

“We were out there for, like, an hour, tops.”

“–we have labored beneath the hot sun–”

“It’s barely seventy degrees.”

“–we don’t need doughnuts, we deserve doughnuts. Doughnuts are our great reward!”

“Aren’t the apples our great reward?” Steve asks, holding up the basket they’d filled out in the orchard. “Y’know, the things we were questing for, or whatever?”

Eddie had declared the entire trip an adventure the moment they’d stepped out into the trees earlier in the day. He’d even found a large stick towards the beginning of their walk that he’d proclaimed was a wizard staff, which would aid them in their quest for some damn fine apples. Steve had been helplessly charmed by the whole ridiculous display.

“Sure, but doughnuts are an even better reward,” Eddie insists.

“You do realize I’ll be making pie later, right?” Steve reminds him. “That’s, like, the whole reason we came out here.”

“Yeah, but that won’t be ready to eat until later. Doughnuts are ready now,” Eddie practically whines. “Besides, pie and doughnuts are two totally different beasts. Different taste, different texture–”

“Oh my god, fine! Get the damn doughnuts,” Steve finally relents.

“Yes!” Eddie lets out a hushed whoop of victory as he snatches up a box of half a dozen apple cider doughnuts and precedes Steve up to the front counter.

Steve can only follow, shaking his head.

They pay for their spoils and head back out into the sunny afternoon, Steve with the apples and Eddie with the doughnuts. It’s a nice day – bright and clear and not too hot. It’s probably one of the last clear weekends they’ll have before fall really descends on them.

All the same, as they cross the parking area back towards the car, Steve can’t help but turn to Eddie to check, “You didn’t actually have a bad time, did you? With the heat or the walking or anything?”

He wonders if maybe Eddie’s scars are causing him trouble with the change in seasons like Steve’s tend to, but Eddie shakes his head.

“Nah, today was fun,” Eddie says. “But even if I thought it was gonna suck, I still would’ve come.”

“Why’s that?” Steve asks.

“Because you wanted to come,” Eddie says, taking a half step sideways so their shoulders bump as they walk.

A wave of startled affection wells up in Steve’s chest, the way it always does whenever Eddie makes a claim of such easy devotion, and it demands an outlet. Steve glances around; the only other people in the parking lot are at the other end, heading in towards the orchard, so he deems it safe enough to lean in and press a quick kiss to the corner of Eddie’s mouth.

Eddie beams at him, and Steve can’t help but smile back.

“If you eat all those doughnuts without me, you’re sleeping on the couch,” Steve murmurs, still close to Eddie’s ear, and Eddie’s laughter rings out as warm and clear as the day.

[calm-with-anxiety]

If I see or hear people defending their votes for Trump with “well I didn’t really know her policies and plans for her presidency” I will burst into flames. We live in a time where almost every piece of information is in your hand, you could’ve Googled her plans, it was on her fucking website for weeks, it was 80 pages of policy and how they planned to pay for it. Like you chose to be an uneducated voter that got information from commercials and short form video.

The economy line is bullshit because his plans will make everything more expensive, tariffs are payed for by you, you think the multibillion dollar company will take on the extra cost to buy and ship goods by lowering the CEO salary, no, they will make the item more expensive because they never promised you a $200 tv, but they did promise stockholders a dividend of $10/share. His mass deportation policy will cause the economy to collapse because immigrants, legal or illegal, do the jobs that others look down on. You never see a line of white guys in overalls hoping to be hired for below minimum wage to pick fruit for hours in the sun, you don’t see young white men showing up to construction jobs that the builder has subcontracted so it’s cheaper to build. The bedrock of the U.S. economy is cheap labor and a majority of that is immigrants who are looking for jobs that don’t require knowing perfect English and have employers that look the other way when you don’t have documents because they know you will work for anything.

Don’t even get me started on healthcare, outside of women’s healthcare which will get worse, if he finally gets rid of the affordable care act, aka Obamacare, they will replace it with nothing. The man was president before and after John McCain put his thumb down they never tried to make a new policy that wasn’t throwing the whole program into the trash. Also the affordable care act is more than just low cost healthcare, it put in place pre-existing conditions, for those too young to remember, the insurance companies could deny you coverage all because you might get cancer one day because your mother had it, you would have to pay out of pocket for an inhaler because asthma was a pre-existing condition, even if you were diagnosed with it later in life. Don’t forget what the vaccine situation will be, especially if he puts RFK jr. anywhere near it, like there is actual fear that Polio will come back because guess what? Most people under the age of 40 are not vaccinated for it because it was considered eradicated due to the mass vaccination of children in the 50s and 60s. When you complain about feeling like shit after getting the flu shot or a Covid booster, that is the vaccine working in your body, your body is doing an internal workout so if and when you come in contact with those viruses you won’t be getting extremely sick or die because someone doesn’t know how to cover their cough.

I think this election was proof that you can have all the information and still know nothing because you chose to know nothing. People vote with their eyes, not their mind. Gas where I live has been under $3.00 for months, it’s been under $2.50 at the warehouse stores for weeks, but because an ad on tv said prices are rising people believed the tv over their own experience. People saw grocery prices increase and blamed the administration when in reality corporations took advantage of Covid shortages, raised prices, recorded historic profits, and didn’t start bring prices down until this summer after people realized what was happening to some extent and even then they didn’t return to pre-2020 prices because the profit still needed to be high, they looked at the $2 increase in a bag of chips over 4 years and blamed democrats and not Lays.

This is going to be a painful 4 years, for many people here and abroad, Ukraine will have to depend on Europe which is starting to lean conservative as well and the war in Gaza will take an extreme shift that will make the last year look like a paper cut in terms of humanitarian assistance and a possible end. It’s already getting on my nerves as people tweet “we keep fighting” and “we need to be strong so they can’t do all they plan to do like the first time”, it’s not going to be like the first time, the adults in the room he had with him, many who came out and supported Harris, are gone and now it will be yes men that he was told to put there by the extreme right like the supporters of project 2025 and billionaires. And for those saying “well maybe he will die in office”, you think JD Vance is better? He allegedly picked him because DT jr. suggested him and if you have ever seen jr. and his takes you would know Vance can be worse.

This is gonna hurt for many people that will now be seen as lower than second class citizens and you won’t even have lower prices to show for it as that seemed to be the reason you voted for him, enjoy your expensive goods as people lost rights.

[peppershark]

WOLFER --- The real California history behind the Tomione Fic

Convict Lake Camp (OwensValleyHistory.com)

When I was a kid, my family frequently visited Bishop, California. I can still feel the light-headed enchantment of hopping out of the van at a relative's green, creek-watered ranch shadowed by towering granite faces of the High Sierras. The dusty road and sage-sharp aroma propelled my imagination two hundred years into the past.

Wolfer is set in 1890 Bishop Creek, and while some of the location names are changed to fit the story, the town really had ranching barons like the Sacred 28 families, churches which exerted certain levels of social power with the well-to-do folk, boarding houses for mill workers and on-farm worker housing for fruit pickers and cowboys--or perhaps the odd wolfer.

It's amazing what you can dig up when you're procrastinating working on your WIP, lol. I did a lot of initial research while writing a Gingerrose fic set in post Civil War Bishop Creek.

Here are some things I found.

Main Street, Bishop Creek 1880 (OwensValleyHistory.com)

In Chapter 1, Tom rides down Main Street to the marshal's office (played by a grudging Severus Snape) and runs into Hermione.

Way off into the upper right you can see the steeple of the First Baptist Church on Main Street.

East Line Street, Bishop Creek (OwensValleyHistory.com)

Tom chases Hermione to Line Street, where he pushes her up against the Brown's Machine Shed, which is of course re-named to fit Lavender Brown's family.

(OwensValleyHistory.com)

Check out that snow! Sitting at 4,000 feet of elevation in the foothills of the East Sierras, the snow can get quite voluminous.

W.D. Roberts Ranch, Round Valley (OwensValleyHistory.com)

The ranch near the dry saltbeds of Owens Lake where Draco visits Harry, (by way of Mad Eye Moody) might have looked like this.

Cerro Gordo photo taken some time between 1871 - 1879 (OwensValleyHistory.com

We get a brief glimpse of the Cerro Gordo silver mine when Draco and Harry ride off into the sunset together for a night of wild debauchery. The brothels and bawdy houses within these sprawling mining towns would have perhaps been some of the only public places for late 19th-century gays to be themselves. Miss Lola's was among the more famous, and I'm struggling to find the website where I originally learned this this but I believe she hosted queer sex workers and provided space for an early LGBTQ+ scene.

The silver mine itself brought together a richly diverse group of fortune seekers. I accessed California census documents and found that while Bishop Creek was mostly white, Cerro Gordo had a much more diverse population (interestingly all marked with 'I', even Latinx names).

I did a phone interview with the Inyo Historical Society and chatted for an hour with a local historian, telling him I was getting context for a novel. (He didn't need to know that my novel was also a fanfic, hahaha.) The historian told me the mine had Mexican, Black, Chinese, and Indigenous populations working as miners, teamsters (people who drive wagons), cooks, brick masons, farm laborers and all kinds of interesting jobs related to running the mine.

Main Street in Bishop Creek, 1878 (OwensValleyHistory.com

One thing that sticks out in my mind from the conversation with the historian is how the white and Mexican ranchers demolished the irrigation canals the Numuu Indigenous tribes had dug to create a green landscape in Owens Valley. Native Americans have been 'farming' America's landscape for thousands of years in a low-impact way. In Chapter 4, Tom muses on this detail as he's setting a wolf trap on Rosier's ranch.

Perhaps the most illuminating account of the region comes from Sarah Winnemucca, daughter of Chief Truckee (after whom the town is named). Sarah travelled as an advocate for Indigenous rights and cataloged her experience and the story of white settler colonization in her book, Life Among the Pauites: Their Wrongs and Claims which you can read for free here.

Thank you for diving into California history with me!

Read Wolfer here.

[kpopsexstories]

Updated Master List (October 23, 2024)

I just updated my Master List post to include all the new stories posted in the last month. Additions include the latest stories in the Most Memorable Sexual Experiences of TXT series, the Jeno NCT Dream Dating Ban stories, and several new Mixed One-shots and Quick Fix stories. In total 13 new stories were added to the list.

In this post I would like to highlight what's coming next and promote my external website Story Finder, which is a much more fun way to explore my content compared to the Tumblr master list.

We're nearing the end: Most Memorable Sexual Experiences of TXT

The second last Most Memorable Sexual Experiences of TXT story was posted on Monday, Soobin's story. Beomgyu is next this coming Monday (the 28th) and I might have a bonus story after that.

This series has been so much fun to write! Because I set a higher bar for myself in terms of plot and quality they're also more challenging. They're never as liked as more direct stories from other series – presumably because you just want something quick and dirty 😉 – but I'd like to think that there's at least a handful of people who prefer the style of the MMSE stories. I certainly enjoy writing them which makes them worth the time they take, even if they're far from as popular.

I currently don't have a plan for a new MMSE group after TXT – but several half-baked ideas. If there's a new "season" in the future it won't be this year!

Gay Stories & The NCT Dream Dating Ban Series

Most of my smut is straight but I do have a Gay K-pop Smut series. So far it's been almost exclusively populated by the NCT Dream Dating Ban sub-series, to which I post a new story/member every now and then. But I've got three pieces of good news for those of you who want the gay stuff!

1. There's a new one-off non-NCT gay story coming on Thursday (October 24, 2024)! And it's about a group I've never written about before (gay or straight)!

What's the story? Monsta X's Wonho and Hyungwon pick you (x male reader) up at a bar for a threesome. This was a request that immediately inspired me to write a story 😀

2. I have a timeline for the NCT Dream Dating Ban series

I've kept you waiting a lot. But now I finally have a timeline for the remaining parts of the Dating Ban sub-series. Starting this week I'm making every Thursday gay story day, and while this week will be the MX Wonho & Hyungwon story mentioned above, the following weeks might be all about the Dating Ban.

Unless I end up writing a non-dating ban story that will be thrown in somewhere in between, we're looking at the following schedule:

October 31st: Chenle's incredible blowjob and cum frenzy that I've teased in the past.

November 7: Jaemin's first part.

November 14: Jaemin's second part.

November 21-December 5: The big finale featuring all 7 members, split into three parts.

And if you've missed it you can already read these stories in the Dating Ban series: Jisung Pt. 1, Jisung Pt. 2, Haechan, Mark, Renjun Pt. 1, Renjun Pt. 2, Jeno Pt. 1 and Jeno Pt. 2.

3. Other Gay Stories & NCT 127 Dating Ban?

A lot of the requests I receive are for gay stories so you'll likely see more of them. Again, I'll make Thursdays gay story day, at least loosely so. Non-NCT and non-Dating Ban stories might appear in between the schedule above, but I want to limit the gay stories to one per week so they don't take over the blog.

And while you probably won't see anything from it until 2025 I am determined to make a "season 2" of the Dating Ban happen, and if so it will be about NCT 127. I'm actually part way through writing this already! There's a connection to the Dream version, and the stories are slightly more tied together and plot-driven than the original.

So yeah, if you like my gay stories and series you've got a lot to look forward to 😄

Quick Fix Season 4 (x Female Reader)

In November I'm likely to start Season 4 of my Quick Fix series. These are shorter idol x female reader scenes featuring any (male) idol. I have enough stories for a full season already (8 stories), but there's still a chance to send in requests if you want to get something in. Examples of previous requests that became Quick Fix stories are Yuta & Taeyong, Ten's romantic evening and Mark hitting it from behind.

Story Finder: A New Way to Explore My Smut

Finally, I want to promote Story Finder again, my external website where you can browse individual stories in new ways. It's essentially a visual database of all the published stories, and you can find stories in ways that aren't possible with a simple Master List post on Tumblr.

On Story Finder you can:

View all my published stories in a gallery.

Browse stories by group & idol – find your bias and the stories I've written about them.

View the requests I'm working on – and stories published as a result of requests.

Find stories by category of the content in them – like sex positions (missionary, doggy style, cowgirl, etc), sex acts (dirty talk, blowjobs, clit teasing, threesomes, etc) and other things (cute stories, with a fan, pregnant, cumshots, cute stories, etc).

Browse stories by word count.

Find the Top 25 Stories.

FInd out which stories were my personal favorites to write and why.

Browse stories by series and sub-series, like Backstage Sex and MILF stories.

...and more!

In short, Story Finder is a deeper, more dynamic and more fun way to explore the content on this blog 😀

Phew, this became a long post! But now you know what I'm planning for the foreseeable future and beyond 😊

[girldragongizzard]

Chapter 19: Twisted Nerve

Tuesday I take for myself, and go to the DMV to update my State ID before counseling.

Oh, counseling, AH-HAHAHAHAA!!!

If I'm a myth, a story, maybe I should be seeing a literary analyst instead. Or an editor!

I avoid other people I know to give them their space, but I message them about it, to let them know what I’m doing. I might catch Chapman before counseling, but by then I’ll be ready for it and sie might be too. I hope. I still plan on joining Rhoda for evening tea if she invites me. She can have more space if she needs it, though.

What did I do most of yesterday, after my talk with Rhoda and the Kims?

I practiced with Wentin, and I started setting up plans to meet with the Mayor again.

I’m gonna keep glossing over practicing with Wentin. It’s an experience that I don’t need to share much of. Or want to.

It’s still a nightmare, after all.

But confessing my revelation with Rhoda and then spending time with Wentin again right after has me introspective in the lobby of the DMV.

As I’m waiting for my number, and watching other people wait, too, then to hobble or walk up to the counters, exhausted and confused, I’m asking myself questions.

For instance, if I’m a story, what’s my plot?

What are my themes? What’s my message or moral? Do I have one?

What kind of weird bullshit am I destined to experience next, as a dragon waiting in the DMV?

I’m not disguised as a human.

I actually don’t think that that would make this go easier.

I have this really weird intuition, or suspicion, that the clerk with the camera would look annoyed and ask me to take my disguise off. And I’d rather save that disguise for special occasions, like meetings with the Mayor, or showing off my favorite dress and tiara while I drink coffee in the morning.

Am I going to wear my tiara when I meet with Mayor Chisholm?

Yeah…

I’m totally going to.

But here? Nah.

It’s not that I want this to go smoothly, actually. It’s that I’m trying to choose my trials, I think. Strategically, like I’ve explained.

But, like, even if getting my ID renewed with an accurate photo of me and my new name and gender marker does go smoothly, it’s still going to be fundamentally funny.

I’m a dragon in the DMV.

It’s practically a one panel funny in the actual printed newspaper.

It’s so goofy what we call newspapers nowadays, too. And that the weekly calls itself the weekly, still, even though it updates its website every day. It just considers its news cycle to be weekly, rather than daily. It takes its time to investigate things, unlike the daily.

That’s a tangent. Sorry.

I’m a fifty year old – oh, there’s my number.

I get up from my spot in the aisle near some chairs and walk up to the window that my number is above.

“How can I help you today?” the clerk asks without really looking up from their computer.

I place the open envelope that’s in my mouth onto the counter and say, “Hello.”

The clerk looks at me and then looks down at the envelope. 

It has a hand scrawled note on it that says:

Hello, I can’t talk well without AAC. I am here to update my State ID with my new name, gender marker, and up-to-date photo. Everything I need is in this envelope.  Thank you, Meghan Estragon Draconis

It’s actually my hand writing, and not at all what I think of as girly, unfortunately. But now I see it as draconic. It was always legible but scratchy. It’s easier to do in human disguise, but now I think I know why I’ve always had trouble with it.

The claw marks needed to get out somehow.

“OK, let me take a look at this and see what you’ve got. Can you answer yes or no questions?” the clerk asks. Her name is “Sheela, she/her”, I see on her nametag.

“Yes,” I say.

“Wonderful!” she smiles. Which surprises me. I don’t think I’ve seen a DMV clerk smile before.

Sheela flips through the contents of the envelope and nods, licking her finger occasionally. Then she arrays it out in front of her.

“I’m going to get you entered into the computer right now, then I’ll give this all back and I’ll need you to sit back down,” she says. “Then, when your name is called – your new name – go on up to that window over there, and Gavin will ask you your questions and take care of your ID. OK?”

“Yes. Thankyou,” I say.

She smiles again, then takes a couple of minutes to do her work before filing everything back in the envelope. She points at my note as she hands it to me, “Just show Gavin that when you go up there.”

“Thankyou,” I say again.

“Have a nice day!” she says, then presses the button to cycle numbers.

And it takes a little while, then it goes pretty much the same with Gavin. Except that I think he’s a trans man, because when he sees my deadname and name change form, he gets excited and congratulates me. And then it feels like we’re queerly flirting at each other without saying anything out of script for the rest of our interactions.

Oh, and changing my gender marker is so simple. It’s just answering the question of which marker I want. I can change it every time I update my ID, as many times as I want. There’s even the X to choose from. I go with F.

And it turns out that they have the camera set up to be adjusted for dragons already.

Which makes this feel like a fantasy.

I mean, honestly, poking my nose out of my apartment four weeks ago to meet Rhoda, who said, “Good morning, Sleepy Head. Still a dragon today?” was plenty fantastic already. Along with everything else that’s happened since.

Sometimes it’s been like a children’s picture book, and sometimes it’s been almost but not quite like a grimdark web serial about world shattering supervillains fighting against cosmic forces beyond comprehension. But fantasy, either way.

But, like, the DMV has already got this stuff figured out? That’s silly. Isn’t it?

Only, having it figured out means everything goes more smoothly, and that’s valuable to everyone stuck in this place.

It’s probably not the same in other states.

Heck, it might not be quite the same in Spokane or Wenatchee.

As I stand there and wait for the flash, I ask another question of myself. One that keeps coming back to me.

Am I a person?

Not, should I have the same rights as a person? Or, can I act like a person?

More fundamental than that.

Am I even alive as an entity that resembles a person sometimes?

Closer to, do I exist? Except I know I exist.

It’s a kind of silly question to ask, because I have the agency to ask it and then decide whether or not to try answering it. Of course that makes me a person. But it keeps popping up.

“OK!” Gavin cheers at me. “Come on back and get your stuff. You’re all paid for. Your temporary ID is being printed right now. And all you have to do is take that and then wait for your new ID to arrive in the mail. It’s been an honor doing this for you Meghan! I hope you have a wonderful rest of your week! And here you go!”

And I’m done, and I’m weirded out that there wasn’t more to it than that. And that no one was blatantly grumpy. It was such a different experience the last time I renewed my ID.

“Oh,” Gavin says. “Do not forget to swing by Social Security and update them, too. It’s easy, though, and a lot less work. Just one half a form. Do you need the address for that?”

“No. Thank you,” I say.

“You’ve already got it?”

“Yes.”

“Fantastic!”

Then, when I’ve got everything together, I head to the door to go outside where the thermals off the parking lot are not so great in this fall weather, but they’ll have to do.

And as I reach the door, a man comes through it and holds it open for me.

He looks familiar to me in that way where I’ve seen only a rare class of people dress like that, and he’s wearing a single unique accessory that should identify him if I were only more familiar with him specifically. His tie. It’s nothing. Just some distinctive stripes.

And as I step up to him, I then notice his eyes.

And our eyes meet as I plod by, heads turning to maintain contact.

I can’t exactly say that we’re not transfixed, but we’ve both got lucid control of the rest of our bodies, despite how rigidly locked our gazes are.

“Hello, Meghan,” he says in a strange, almost mechanical male British voice.

To be continued…

[killjoyhistory]

The Mystery of DD

Since a lot of newer fans weren’t around to experience the mystery of the DD era as it was unfolding, I wanted to try to describe it so people can understand what it was like to be an MCR fan in 2010.

A Bizarre Mystery

It all began on September 4th, 2010, when MCR’s website suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a mysterious transmitter. No one had any idea this was coming, and no explanation was offered. You could click the dials to see different screens (test patterns, a nuclear fallout symbol, etc.), and hear distorted sounds. At one point, fans believed that they could hear an unreleased MCR song on one of the stations, buried under static and distortion. Later on, the transmitter started playing mysterious videos that hinted at a post-apocalyptic universe.

Not long after the transmitter appeared, the DrDeathDefying Twitter account was discovered after he tweeted a fan. NewsAGoGo and AgentCherriCola were discovered soon after, with the rest of the accounts coming later. The accounts posted a bizarre mixture of strange pictures, futuristic slang, references to apocalyptic events, fan interactions, and eerie ramblings. You could determine a loose background and storyline from the Twitter accounts, but they were so vague that no one was quite sure what was going on. All we knew was that the characters seemed to be part of a nightmarish, post-apocalyptic universe that took place in the near future. But we had no idea how this related to MCR, or why they’d gone in this direction for their next album.

The Return of MCR.com

The website did return on September 8th, with a new photo and blog post from Frank. But the blog post offered no explanation, and the speculation was far from over. The transmitter was still accessible on a separate page on MCR’s website. As the Twitter accounts continued to post their bizarre ramblings, people made connections to everything from movies to past MCR eras to the supposed “2012 Mayan Apocalypse.” At that point, their next album could have been about anything.

Looking back at Danger Days now, it’s pretty clear what was going on. But at the time, we had no idea where this era was heading. Keep in mind that our only sources of information were the Twitter accounts and the transmitter–no comics, no music videos, no interviews. The era could have been about anything. For this reason, fans scrutinized every scrap of information–pictures, tweets, transmissions–down to the smallest detail.

A World of Theories

The blog girlautomatic is a great place to read the old theories. Here’s an example from one of her posts:

Here’s my new theory:

Dr. Death Defying is part of a group called the Philly Jackals, likely a gang that either travels around on motorcycles or cars or both. Whether the group actually comes out of Philadelphia, assuming Philadelphia (or even the other states) still even exists as we know them to exist, is debatable.

The name Dr. Death Defying is an alias s/he either adopted or was given upon joining up with the Philly Jackals.

Slaughtermatic Sounds is both their logo and their motto.

The car in the picture Frank posted and the raygun Dr. Death Defying tweeted a picture of belong to him/her.

Which could possibly mean that the Lady referred to in this tweet is said car. It also probably means that last night’s tweet about being low on batteries is also about his car, but that might be a bit of a stretch. Also? I’m not sure I’d want to get on the Doctor’s bad side, if this is all correct. Motor gangs are serious business. It at least casts this tweet in a different light, though, and really makes me wonder if this tweet about nitro is referring to the dangers of drag racing, and if this tweet is about traveling on the open road.

This might look strange to fans today, but at the time, no scrap of information was insignificant. Whole blog posts were written about one or two tweets. People studied the blank transmitter screen, trying to see vague shadows or reflections in the image. They traced pictures posted on Twitter to their original sources, then studied the sources. To fans, it was basically a giant puzzle–but we had no idea where it was heading, or if there were even a solution to find.

People also tried to figure out who ran these Twitter accounts. We know now that Shaun Simon ran most of them, with Gerard Way and Jon Rivera handling DrDeathDefying. But at the time, several fans (including me) just kind of assumed that the members of MCR ran the accounts. A popular theory was that Gerard ran DrDeathDefying and Frank ran NewsAGoGo (a few tweets shared Frank’s typing style.) However, some people did suspect that Shaun Simon was involved, as the characters tended to tweet about things that he mentioned on his personal Twitter.

The End of an Era

Eventually the “Art Is The Weapon“ video was released, and the interviews and music videos that followed cleared up a lot of the mystery. But the characters continued to tweet, some of them posting well into 2013. We’re now familiar with the Danger Days universe, but the hint of mystery and intrigue still lingers. Many questions were never answered, while some concepts and ideas were scrapped altogether. Even if we get more content in the future, parts of DD will always remain a mystery to us–and I think that’s one reason that it continues to capture people’s imaginations.

An interesting note–thinking back on the transmitter and the Twitter accounts, it felt like we’d analyzed these pieces of information for months. But while I was researching this blog post, I realized that MCR’s website returned after only four days, and "Art Is The Weapon” was released only a few weeks later. I guess the analysis and scrutiny was so in-depth that it seemed to last much longer!

[tryslora]

Balticon Wrap-Up

This past weekend I attended Balticon and participated in programming and once again, I had a blast.

For anyone who has come to my website/social media from the convention, welcome! If you’re looking to find me on other social media, I recommend Bluesky and Mastodon for random chit-chat and quick commentary, or Pillowfort/Tumblr/Dreamwidth for blogging. You may also get random fandom content on Pillowfort/Tumblr or well, anywhere I can boost someone else’s posts. I may be writing original work now, but I am still a fan at heart.

I am Tryslora everywhere. <3 Hope to meet new folks!

Balticon is one of my childhood conventions (I grew up in SFF fandom starting when I was 12 years old). I went in high school, in college when I could make it there, and it was my husband’s second ever SFF convention back when we were first dating. We continued going as adults until our son’s frustrations with traveling, and the kids activity schedules impinged on our ability to attend conventions. After all, the long drive made it one of the more difficult conventions to attend.

Last year, my son was doing his second co-op in Baltimore, and we realized that hey, if we get to see him (and there’s a chance he might settle in Baltimore for a while eventually) then we can go back to Balticon! And we are so glad we did.

On the fandom side of things, I enjoy spending time in the gaming room (Hal Haag, we miss you, and I think of you every time I game at Balticon). Spent some money in the dealers’ room, and have a list of things I plan to buy after the convention as well. I tried to buy lovely art, but was overbid, then missed the auction because I was on a panel. Sadness!

But, panels! I had a blast, and was so excited to get to see friends I’d made last year, and make new ones. I was on five panels between Saturday and Sunday.

Before I get into the panels I was on, I’d like to compliment the programming group at Balticon, headed by Yakira Heistand. The selection was amazing, and there are some virtual panels I’m hoping to watch recordings of once they are posted. There were so many things I wanted to go see, and nowhere near enough time. Fantastic work!

Book Covers For Indie Authors

My first panel of the convention was Sunday morning. We had a great discussion of what goes into making a cover that will reach out and grab readers (bright colors, easy to see/read in a thumbnail, fonts). We talked about traditional published covers, and the differences between those and indie covers, as well as why do some covers look more traditional than others. I, of course, brought up seeking out fan artists because I’ve had such great luck with the artists for my books. And no cover art discussion can happen without talk about the impact AI has had, particularly on indie covers.

Breaking Up With Your Inner Critic

My inner critic hasn’t been silenced; she has been put in time out in the corner, and I am doing my best not to listen to her.

We all had different ways of stepping away from our inner critic, and we also had a discussion about the book The Artist’s Way, which some of us have had positive experiences with, and some of us not-so-positive (me, that’s me). It was a nicely hopeful session, and I hope we were able to encourage the folks in the audience to be able to push past those moments when the inner critic tries to say “no” and into a world where anything is possible.

Tools to Manage Creativity

Ahhh I wish I’d taken more notes on this panel. We had a great talk about all the tools that are out there, and which ones work best for each of us. Most importantly, we noted that there is no One Perfect Tool that appeals to every creative. Some folks love Scrivener, some draft in Drive, some use Word. That’s okay! What’s most important is finding the tool that works best for you. One of the parts I enjoyed most was that each of us shared not just what tools we use, but why we use them. What does it do for our creativity and productivity.

I met someone from the audience who is an even bigger part of the spreadsheet fandom than I am! Their spreadsheet was a thing of amazement that put my own word tracking sheet to shame.

At the end of the panel, I was happy to let people touch my iPad—the paper-touch screen protector I put on it has been a game changer for me. I love how it feels for both using the iPad instead of a notebook, and for art.

Paranormal Romance

Ohhh there is nothing harder than being on a panel that ends with “and what are your recommendations?” and having your mind go blank. But my mind going blank about details is normal (hello, ADHD), so I warned everyone ahead of time. And I wrote down a ton of queer paranormal romance recommendations offered by someone else.

We also talked about writing romance, and the expectations of romance, which means I have some research and writing material to go through in order to improve my craft. I love being on panels where I learn something, too!

Slash of Our Ancestors: A History of Fanfic

Oh my goodness, this may have been my favorite panel. It was the only evening panel I was on, and we discussed everything from the early days of fic with zines made with mimeograph machines to the advent of the internet and how things changed. I had a blast. It was great getting to sit with folks of all different ages and talk about how we came into fic, and what our experiences were, and how the advent of the internet (and the popularization of fanfic) has modified how the world interacts with fandom. Our mod asked some great questions, and the audience had a lot of interaction (I mean, we were talking about fandom—how could we not include the audience?). It was a perfect way to end the convention.

In the end, I screwed up my sleep schedule, and Monday night before working Tuesday was a bit rough. The drive home was… entertaining… we hit some big storms as we returned to New York and I got to feel my new baby car hydroplaning (ugh, but yes, we are fine, nothing happened) as we went through a lovely purple zone on the radar.

I’m very much looking forward to returning to Balticon again next year!

[umbra-borealis]

TLDR, Elements of Chaos, a massive Sonic AU I've had for years will be in production, meaning most my spare time will go towards that. C0mms might still be open but I'll be more picky because I want to make sure I can actually deliver quality without overworking myself. It's just me, one singular guy, working on this passion project and while I'm okay with that, keep in mind that things might move slowly. I don't have the mental capacity, free time or funding to work on it full time. I'm still excited though and I hope you guys are too.

And of course, here's that ko-fi link I mentioned.

Transcript:

Umbra's 2024 look-ahead

Hello everyone!

2023 was a rather slow year for me as an artist but eventful for me mentally. Because of this I wasn't able to do as much as I had planned and that, not going to lie, hurts. But I'm also ready to leave that in the past and perhaps just push the pause button on some things to return to later because certain things (like the tarot card project) still live rent free in my head. These big long term projects are most impacted by the small amount of folks interested in them besides myself and before you think I'm complaining, this is actually a bit of a blessing because this means I can put a pin in that and things like it to instead focus on something more important to me...

ELEMENTS OF CHAOS.

This is a Sonic AU, yup. Lets get that out of the way first. I'm far from the only one to have an AU and turn it into a full length fic or comic but the thing is, I'm doing neither. Sonic has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It was a comfort during my most traumatizing years as a child when I had to navigate abuse on the daily, it was a reason for me to not commit sewer slide when I was at my lowest and I cannot begin to express the many ways it affected me as a writer and artist. Together with it's less well known sibling NiGHTS, the Sonic series is the reason I draw/write at all. But as we all know, the Sonic series isn't without it's flaws and just like so many others, I started re-writing bits and pieces I didn't like to form a new narrative.

This is a long haul passion project. The format has already been decided on and I plan to keep 'dev logs' for folks to keep up with if it interests them because I can't promise the release of it's first chapter any time soon. This project only has one person doing all the work and that person is me so if you're interested in supporting me I have a ko-fi link I'll attach to this post (and hopefully more options to come soon) They come with perks too so I don't feel like I'm just e begging, lmao.

Here's a little list of things I'm doing/have to do in order to start publishing.

Character references (Sonic is done already). This is because this story will also feature illustrations.

Website building. Yes, I plan to host a website on Neocities specially for Elements of Chaos.

Actual writing, doi. It's true that I have already worked on the first chapter and gotten positive feedback on what I have so far, but it's far from done!

Cover/page illustrations. This is a storybook type thing. I want to experiment and learn as an artist. This project will be my playground for that and hopefully you'll get to see that growth as the story progresses.

Development will happen in that order, so you can expect references before anything else.

For now, happy new year everyone! I'll share more fun stuff such as a synopsis, world building, stream news etc. in the near future. For now I'm going to enjoy what's left of the holidays before going straight back to work. I look forward to taking everyone along on this creative journey. Thank you!

[maverick-werewolf]

AUGUST - A look ahead + some general updates

Hi, all! Just keeping everyone posted on what I've been up to and what's coming up in the future. Here are some things you can expect to see in the month of August, both publicly and exclusive to the Patreon...

Public posts:

New Werewolf Fact - That's right; it'll be a werewolf fact again this month! What will it be about? Well, that's up to my patrons. They have several choices this time. Whatever they pick, I'm going to refocus on werewolf facts again for a little while, especially to prepare for the promotion of my upcoming book Knightfall - and possibly even for the announcement of another nonfiction werewolf folklore book from me.

Preview for an upcoming short story - Depending on how efficiently I get these two new short stories written, I would love to post a public preview for one this month!

Website updates - I'm going to be doing some website updates this August, including some updates to the character pages on my website and possibly more (I would love to improve the look/feel of several pages, but I'm not sure I have time to get to that this month). If you haven't seen my website redesign, by the way, don't forget to check that out! It has lots of useful pages now, including character pages and reading order guides to my fiction, as well as previews of all my books and links to purchase them online from Amazon (they are also available online at most book retailers). I am especially fond of the Characters section, myself.

Patron-only posts:

Poll on next Werewolf Fact - Patrons will get to decide what August's werewolf fact will be! The poll will go up around the start of the month, and it'll run for a while before I take in the final results and start working on the fact itself.

Monthly Preview, Chapter 8 of Knightfall revision (near-final draft) - Already loaded up and ready to be posted soon, the monthly preview for August will be chapter 8 of my Knightfall revision in its near-final form (not final yet, though)! This chapter introduces a brand new plot twist, and we're fast approaching the point where I will no longer post chapter previews of this revision, as things are really heating up. I'm very excited to hear what readers think of this preview!

Previews for 1 or 2 new short stories - I'm not sure how much writing I'll get around to in terms of these short stories, but I know what I want to do with both now, so I'm really hoping to post a preview at least for patrons this month of one, if not both, upcoming short stories! If you missed the writing journal on those, check that out here.

Writing Journal on short stories - You can expect new writing journal(s) about one or both upcoming newsletter short stories.

Writing Journal on newsletter - You can also expect a writing journal about my newsletter itself, what I hope to achieve with it, what to expect from it, and more.

Possibly other journal(s) - Who knows what I might write a journal about? I like to do journals at random sometimes. I actually have had something in the works for a while that's totally unexpected... we'll see if I get that posted this month or if it continues to lurk in the drafts for a later date.

Will I finish at least one short story to the point of posting a public preview in August? I can't say yet! We'll see how it goes. I am going to run them by my patrons first; I do know that. So if you're a patron, definitely expect at least a preview of one or both new short stories this month.

Patrons are going to be my test audience for these short stories, so patrons will receive these short stories in their entirety before they are available publicly through my newsletter!

Also, as a more general update, I have removed the Character Questions reward from my Patreon for the time being in order to make space to experiment with other potential rewards in the future.

If there's anything anyone would be excited to see from my Patreon rewards, be it related to my folklore work or my fiction or whatever else, I'd love to hear from you!

There's a lot in store, and I can't wait to share it all. I'm really hoping to make 2024 a big year for me and my work, so I'm doing a lot of preparation in the remainder of this year to work toward that.

Until next time!

[bennettsilberman]

An Essay For School That I Thought Was Pretty Funny

A Reflective Account of an Interaction at the Library Reference Desk (i.e., A Reflection)

It now occurs to me that the Library Reference Desk is not like, a decorative altar of knowledge in the corner. They (i.e., the person sitting behind the Library Reference Desk) are not Sophia manifest in physical existence, donned on both sides and fanned by Brahmin priests. They (i.e., the individual stationed at the post (i.e., the Library Reference Desk) at any given time) always had an aura of unapproachability to them that inspired an attitude of near reverence. I never noticed that they (i.e.,) had a seat next to them to sit upon in order to interface. It would be far too inappropriate to have to look down upon their Highness (i.e., the person sitting behind the Library Reference Desk at any given moment) in the course of our interaction.

               So I ordered a dirty chai latte with a double shot of espresso- my usual order being a quad shot, the physio-psychological effects of that (i.e., a dirty chai latte with four added shots of espresso) being akin to scheduled stimulants mixed with laxatives- and a croissant- the palatal experience of its (i.e., the croissant) consumption being actually at least like one standard deviation above what one might expect it (i.e., the experience of eating a croissant from the library café) to be- and strolled over. I forget whether or not I started the interaction with “excuse me,” “hello,” “howdy,” or some other wild card option.

               The man sitting behind the Library Reference Desk- his name is Aaron- or was- I can’t imagine he is still sitting behind it (i.e., the Library Reference Desk)- but I also can’t imagine he changed his name since our interaction- although he could have- he has every right to, after all- seemed pleasantly surprised to see me. I really don’t think a lot of people make use of it (i.e., the Library Reference Desk).

               I explained to him (i.e., Aaron (i.e., the man sitting behind the Library Reference Desk during the course of our interaction)) a general outline of an English project I was working on- am working on. Essentially, my task- as it relates to this English project- not like- my overarching life mission- is to deconstruct and knead and prod and analyze and deploy and defile Harry Potter to a near autofellatic degree.

               “Ah” he (i.e., Aaron) said. I may be completely making this (i.e., the “ah” – not the session (i.e., talking with Aaron (i.e., the man behind the Library Reference Desk)) itself) up. But he (i.e., Aaron) did seem to understand what I was getting at. I was thus thrice-born into the Initiatory Order of the English Research Guide (i.e., libguides.humboldt.edu/engl/articles). This specific section of the library website (i.e., libguides.humboldt.edu/engl/articles) was actually pretty useless for my research purposes. I find Google Scholar to be more than adequate for these sorts of quests (i.e., the completely legal practice of sifting through public trash cans outside of specific residences (i.e., the completely legal practice of sifting through specific websites inside of specific domains (i.e., surfing the web))).

               But what was enlightening, and new to me, was the fact that the main section of the library website (i.e., library.humboldt.edu) and its attendant search function had the ability to pierce through the veil of institutional access barriers. I would probably be destitute had I ever forgot to cancel one of those free trials to various dragons curled around piles of gold on peaks of mountains (i.e., academic publishers with exorbitant paywall fees). I would send the people profiting off of this artificially enforced scarcity of knowledge to labor camps, if it were up to me. But alas..

               This is basically the extent of the knowledge imparted upon me during the course of our session. There might have been more, but I forget. I took notes during it, (i.e., the session) – these being hastily scrawled upon the pages of a glittering, sparkling notebook- the type of glitter upon sequins I initially and erroneously thought wouldn’t shed and get everywhere- that I stole from an old flame (i.e., Alina (i.e., Алина) a.k.a Alinachka (i.e., Алиначка)) - these notes reading, exactly:

               “- English research guide

               - Case by case

               - Context matters

               - Social justice, Humboldt

               - Difference, issues, religious studies

               - Aaron”

               These almost incomprehensible- even to me (i.e., the artist and author)- sigils contain unbreakable ties to the historical event (i.e., the session with Aaron (i.e., the man sitting behind the reference desk during the course of our session and possibly, although it is unlikely, right now)) which created them. I can see now that somewhere between “English research guide” and “Case by case” I stopped asking questions about my own project (i.e., a complete and exhaustive archeological expedition of the Harry Potter anthology) and began asking questions about his (i.e., sitting stoically yet approachably behind the Library Reference Desk).

               I clumsily conveyed the maxim of “producing better writers, not better writing” (1) to Aaron (i.e., the man sitting behind the Library Reference Desk) from Stephen North’s “The Idea of a Writing Center” (i.e., a citable reading from any module in the course (i.e., ENGL 450 42281))- and asked him what he (i.e., Aaron) thought about it (i.e., the maxim of “producing better writers, not better writing”) and whether or not he (i.e., Aaron) had any personal philosophies or things of that nature guiding his (i.e., Aaron’s) own practice (i.e., sitting stoically yet approachably behind the Library Reference Desk).  

               He countered my maxim (i.e., “producing better writers, not better writing”) with some maxims of his own, these being general notions of the importance of treating each lost soul who he found himself in consultation with, at the Library Reference Desk, on a case-by-case basis, and taking into the account the individual contexts and circumstances around each interaction, at the Library Reference Desk- not that these principles couldn’t and shouldn’t be applied to other sorts of interactions and consultations in the course of day-to-day life, it stands to mention.

               He also recalled the importance of sitting stoically yet approachably behind the Library Reference Desk in a way that was in line with the guiding principles of Humboldt. I asked for clarification as to what these (i.e., the guiding principles of Humboldt) were, exactly.  I feel that I know what they (i.e., the guiding principles of Humboldt) are in my heart, but it’s kind of a tricky question (i.e., “What exactly are the guiding principles of Humboldt?”) and oftentimes one squirms in such a way that the frames of their being align parallel enough to catch glimpses into their soul. He answered it (i.e., the question (i.e., “What exactly are the guiding principles of Humboldt?”)) well. But the Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao.

               He (i.e., Aaron) referenced his (i.e., Aaron’s) background in religious studies, and the importance of celebrating difference and not trying to stamp it out. I think we (i.e., Aaron and I (i.e., Bennett)) share an appreciation for interlayered and multicolored tapestries. I made sure to ask for his (i.e., Aaron’s) name at the end of our session, and I’m glad I (i.e., Bennett) did, for this paper wouldn’t be the same without it (i.e., his name (i.e., Aaron)).

               I (i.e., Bennett) didn’t shake his (i.e., Aaron’s) hand at the end. We (i.e., Aaron and Bennett) were kind of at an odd angle and the computer monitors comprising some of his citadel (i.e., the Library Reference Desk) stood as barriers between us- and it just seemed like it would be kind of weird and forced if I were to try and go in for it (i.e., a handshake).

               But it was a good session nonetheless. I’m glad I learned how to use the library website to bypass those paywalls. Some of those free trials are like a six-hundred-dollar charge if you forget to cancel them. It’s (i.e., the exorbitant charges associated with paywalled academic journals) insane.

Works Cited:

North, Stephen M. "The Idea of a Writing Center." College English, vol. 46, no. 5, 1984, pp. 433-446.

[skylabseo]

Best SEO Practices for 2024: What Every Business Needs to Know

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is always changing. What worked a year ago might not work today. If you want your business to stay on top, you need to keep up with the latest SEO trends.

In this, we are going to talk about the best SEO practices for 2024. These are the tips and strategies that will help your website rank higher, get more traffic, and grow your business.

Let’s see

High-Quality Content is Still the Key

Good content is the heart of SEO. It is not enough to just have a lot of content. Your content needs to be useful and relevant to your audience. In 2024, Google will continue to reward websites that offer real value.

How to Create Great Content:

Know Your Audience: Before you write, think about who you are writing for. What are their problems? What are they searching for? Your content should answer their questions. Be Original: Do not copy what is already out there. Offer something new. Maybe it is a fresh perspective or some unique data. Make sure your content stands out. Use Different Content Types: Not everyone likes to read. Some people prefer videos, infographics, or podcasts. Mix it up. Focus on E-E-A-T: Google likes content that shows Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness. Make sure your content is well-researched and credible.

In short, focus on quality over quantity. Create content that people will find useful, and Google will reward you for it.

Optimize for Voice Search

More and more people are using voice search. Think about how often you ask Siri or Google for help. People are using their voices to search for things, and this trend is only growing.

How to Optimize for Voice Search: Use Natural Language: When people use voice search, they talk like they would in a conversation. So, instead of targeting short keywords like “best pizza,” go for longer phrases like “Where can I find the best pizza near me?” Answer Questions: Many voice searches are questions. Make sure your content answers these questions clearly. For example, “How do I fix a leaky faucet?” Focus on Local SEO: A lot of voice searches are for local businesses. Make sure your Google My Business profile is up to date, and use local keywords like “best coffee shop in New York.” Voice search is becoming more common, so make sure your website is ready for it.

Mobile-First is a Must

Google now uses mobile-first indexing. This means Google looks at the mobile version of your website first when deciding where to rank it. If your site is not mobile-friendly, you are going to have a hard time ranking well.

How to Make Sure Your Website is Mobile-Friendly: Responsive Design: Your website should look good on all devices, whether it’s a phone, tablet, or desktop. Fast Loading Times: Mobile users do not want to wait. If your site takes too long to load, they will leave. Use tools like Google Page Speed Insights to check your site speed. Simple Navigation: Make it easy for mobile users to find what they are looking for. Do not make them click through too many menus. Avoid Pop-Ups: Pop-ups can be annoying on mobile devices. If you use them, make sure they are easy to close. In 2024, having a mobile-friendly website is not just a good idea it is a must.

Improve User Experience (UX) Google cares about how users interact with your site. If people find your website hard to use, they will leave, and Google will notice. That is why user experience is so important for SEO in 2024.

How to Improve User Experience: Fast Loading Times: No one likes a slow website. If your site takes more than a few seconds to load, users will leave. Compress images, use a content delivery network (CDN), and minimize unnecessary code to speed up your site. Easy Navigation: Your website should be easy to navigate. Users should be able to find what they are looking for quickly and easily. Mobile Usability: As mentioned earlier, your site must be mobile-friendly. Make sure buttons are easy to tap, text is readable, and images do not take forever to load. Engaging Design: A visually appealing website keeps users engaged. Use high-quality images, videos, and graphics to make your site more attractive. In short, the better the experience users have on your site, the better your chances of ranking higher in search results.

Core Web Vitals Matter Google has a set of specific metrics called Core Web Vitals that measure how users experience your website. These are important for SEO in 2024.

The three main Core Web Vitals are:

Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): This measures how fast your main content loads. Aim for under 2.5 seconds. First Input Delay (FID): This measures how quickly your site becomes interactive. A good FID score is less than 100 milliseconds. Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): This measures how stable your site is while it loads. You do not want things moving around as the page loads, so aim for a CLS score of less than 0.1. How to Improve Core Web Vitals: Optimize Images: Compress images to reduce load times. Use Lazy Loading: This make sure images only load when they are about to be viewed, improving speed. Minimize JavaScript: Too much JavaScript can slow your site down, so reduce it where possible. Set Size Attributes for Images and Videos: This prevents elements from shifting around as the page loads. Improving your Core Web Vitals will not only boost your SEO but also create a smoother experience for your users.

Structured Data is Your Friend Structured data, also known as schema markup, helps search engines understand your site better. By adding structured data to your pages, you can get those fancy rich snippets in search results — you know, the ones with star ratings, images, and extra information.

How to Use Structured Data: Add Schema Markup: Use schema to provide extra information about your content, like product details, reviews, recipes, or event dates. Create Rich Snippets: These increased search results help your listing stand out and can improve your click-through rate. Use Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool: After adding schema markup, use this tool to make sure everything is working properly. Adding structured data to your site can improve your visibility in search results and give you a competitive edge.

Backlinks Still Matter (But Quality Over Quantity) Backlinks are still a major ranking factor in 2024. But here’s the catch — it is not about how many backlinks you have. It is about the quality of those backlinks.

How to Build High-Quality Backlinks: Create Link-Worthy Content: The best way to earn backlinks is by creating content that is so good, people want to link to it. This could be a comprehensive guide, original research, or a unique infographic. Guest Blogging: Writing guest posts for reputable websites in your industry is a great way to build backlinks and get your name out there. Reach Out: If you have created a great piece of content, do not be afraid to reach out to other sites and ask for a link. Avoid Spammy Links: Stay away from low-quality, spammy backlinks. Google penalizes websites that use shady link-building tactics. Remember, when it comes to backlinks, quality trumps quantity every time.

AI and Automation Are Here to Stay Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a bigger role in SEO every year. In 2024, AI and automation tools can help you stay ahead of the competition and make your work easier.

How to Use AI in SEO: AI-Powered Content Creation: Tools like ChatGPT can help you generate ideas, optimize content, or even write drafts. Automated SEO Audits: Tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs use AI to help you conduct regular SEO audits, track keyword rankings, and analyze competitors. AI for Personalization: AI can help you personalize content for different users, which can improve engagement and conversion rates. By embracing AI and automation, you can streamline your SEO efforts and stay one step ahead.

Local SEO is More Important Than Ever If you run a local business, local SEO should be at the top of your list. More and more people are using search engines to find local businesses, and optimizing for local search can help you capture this traffic.

How to Boost Local SEO: Optimize Your Google My Business Profile: Make sure your Google My Business profile is complete and accurate. Include your business hours, location, and photos. Use Local Keywords: Include local keywords in your content, like “best pizza place in Chicago” or “plumber near me.” Get Reviews: Positive reviews can boost your local rankings. Encourage your happy customers to leave reviews on Google. Get Local Backlinks: Get backlinks from local websites, like news outlets or local directories. Local SEO is a must if you want to attract more customers from your area.

Keep Up with Algorithm Updates Google is always changing its algorithm, and 2024 will be no different. Staying on top of these changes is important if you want to maintain or improve your rankings.

How to Stay Updated: Follow SEO Blogs: Websites like Search Engine Journal, Moz, and Google’s Webmaster Blog are great resources for keeping up with algorithm updates. Monitor Your Rankings: Use tools like Google Search Console to keep an eye on your rankings. If you notice a sudden drop, it could be due to an algorithm change. Stay Flexible: Algorithm updates are inevitable. When they happen, do not panic. Analyze the impact, make the necessary changes, and move forward. By staying informed and adapting quickly, you can minimize the impact of algorithm changes on your website.

SEO in 2024 is not just about keywords and backlinks. It is about providing value to your audience, improving user experience, and staying ahead of the latest trends. Skylab SEO is the leading SEO company in patna helping your business to improve their online visibility by implementing proven SEO strategies, we can increased your search engine rankings, attract more qualified traffic to your website, and ultimately boost your business growth."

Remember, SEO is a long-term game. Stay consistent, stay patient, and the results will come.

[ilios-india]

Heat Pump Sales Near Me: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking to upgrade your home heating and cooling system? If you are, you’ve likely come across heat pumps as an energy-efficient option. But before making a decision, it's important to understand what heat pumps are, their benefits, and how to find the best heat pump sales near me. This guide will help you explore all of that and more in simple, easy-to-read language.

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a device that can both heat and cool your home by transferring heat from one place to another. In the winter, it pulls heat from the outside air and brings it inside your home. In the summer, it works the opposite way, taking heat from inside your house and releasing it outdoors.

Unlike traditional heating systems that burn fuel, heat pumps use electricity to move heat, making them highly energy efficient. They can reduce your energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and help reduce your carbon footprint.

Benefits of Heat Pumps

If you're wondering why you should look for heat pump sales near me, here are several reasons why they are a great choice:

Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat, which means they are far more efficient than furnaces or air conditioners that rely on burning fuel. You could save up to 50% on your energy bills.

Dual Functionality: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, eliminating the need to buy separate units for summer and winter.

Eco-Friendly: Because they don’t rely on fossil fuels, heat pumps have a lower carbon footprint, which is good for the environment.

Consistent Comfort: Heat pumps deliver steady and even temperatures, which means no more cold spots in the winter or hot spots in the summer.

Quiet Operation: Unlike other HVAC systems that can be noisy, heat pumps are known for their quiet operation, keeping your home peaceful and comfortable.

How to Find Heat Pump Sales Near Me

Now that you understand the benefits, you’re probably wondering, "How do I find the best heat pump sales near me?" Here are some tips to guide you:

Do Your Research: Start by searching online for heat pump sales near me. This will give you a list of local dealers and suppliers who sell heat pumps. Visit their websites to get an idea of their offerings.

Read Reviews: Customer reviews can provide insight into the quality of service a dealer provides. Check Google, Yelp, and other review platforms to see what other customers have to say about their experiences.

Ask for Recommendations: If you have friends, family, or neighbors who have installed heat pumps, ask them where they purchased theirs. Personal recommendations can be invaluable when looking for heat pump sales near me.

Visit Local Showrooms: Many HVAC dealers have showrooms where you can see heat pumps in person. Visiting a showroom allows you to ask questions, compare models, and get a feel for which system might be best for your home.

Check for Promotions: When looking for heat pump sales near me, don't forget to look for special promotions and discounts. Many dealers offer seasonal sales or rebates, which can save you hundreds of dollars on your purchase.

Key Considerations When Purchasing a Heat Pump

Once you’ve found a few options for heat pump sales near me, there are several factors to consider before making your final decision:

Size: The size of the heat pump you choose should be based on the size of your home. A unit that is too small will struggle to heat or cool your home efficiently, while a unit that is too large will waste energy and cost more upfront.

Efficiency Rating: Heat pumps are rated by their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). Look for models with high SEER and HSPF ratings to ensure maximum efficiency.

Type of Heat Pump: There are different types of heat pumps, including air-source, geothermal, and ductless mini-splits. Air-source heat pumps are the most common and are ideal for mild climates, while geothermal heat pumps are more expensive but extremely efficient. Ductless mini-split systems are an ideal solution for homes lacking ductwork.

A solid warranty provides reassurance and confidence. Make sure to inquire about the warranty when looking for heat pump sales near me. The warranty should cover both the parts and the compressor for an extended period.

Installation Cost: Don't forget to factor in the cost of installation when looking for heat pump sales near me. While some dealers offer free installation as part of a promotion, others may charge extra. Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate before making a decision.

Maintenance and Care of Heat Pumps

After you’ve purchased and installed your heat pump, regular maintenance is key to ensuring it operates efficiently for years to come. Here are a few tips to keep your system in top condition:

Clean the Filters: Regularly clean or replace the filters in your heat pump. Dirty filters can reduce efficiency and put extra strain on the system.

Check for Leaks: Make sure there are no leaks in the ductwork or refrigerant lines, as leaks can cause your heat pump to work harder, increasing your energy costs.

Schedule Annual Tune-Ups: Professional maintenance should be scheduled once a year to check the system’s performance and ensure there are no underlying issues.

Track Your Energy Consumption: Stay informed about your energy expenses. A sudden spike in energy usage may indicate that your heat pump needs servicing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, searching for heat pump sales near me is an important step in finding a system that fits your home and your budget. With the right heat pump, you’ll enjoy comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind all year long! Originally Published Here:-https://iliosindia2.wordpress.com/2024/09/19/heat-pump-sales-near-me-everything-you-need-to-know/



[krunal-vyas]

SEO Toronto: Create High-Quality Content That Converts

If you’re running a business in Toronto, you’ve likely heard about SEO (Search Engine Optimization). It’s essential for standing out online and attracting more customers. However, there’s a catch — it’s not just about driving more traffic. You need high-quality content that turns visitors into buyers. This is where many businesses struggle. Whether you’re a local business, an e-commerce store, or a marketing manager, crafting content that works for SEO Toronto and converts can feel like a challenge.

In this guide, I’ll show you simple, effective strategies to boost your SEO in Toronto and create content that works. Let’s dive in.

How Do I Improve My SEO in Toronto With High-Quality Content?

Understanding SEO in Toronto

Toronto is a busy city, full of local businesses competing for attention online. If you’re not showing up in local search results, you’re missing out on potential customers. This is where local SEO becomes essential.

Why Does Local SEO Matter?

When people in Toronto search for something like “SEO services near me” or “best restaurants in Toronto,” you want your business to be one of the first results they see. Local SEO makes that happen. If your business isn’t ranking well locally, you’re losing out to competitors who have optimized their sites for Toronto-based customers.

Key SEO Metrics to Track:

Organic Traffic: Are you getting visitors from local searches?

Conversion Rate: Are your website visitors turning into customers?

Local Rankings: Are you ranking for Toronto-related keywords?

Bounce Rate: Are people leaving your site too quickly without exploring?

If you’re struggling with any of these, it’s time to rethink your SEO strategy and focus on creating high-quality, SEO-friendly content that engages and converts.

What is High-Quality Content?

High-quality content isn’t just about stuffing your blog posts with keywords. It’s about making your website useful and relevant to your audience while also ranking well in search results. The goal is to create content that helps your visitors and makes them want to take action — whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, contacting you, or making a purchase.

Three Key Elements of High-Quality Content:

Relevance: Your content must answer questions or solve problems your audience cares about. For example, if you’re a local restaurant, you might write about “best dishes to try in Toronto” to attract people searching for food recommendations.

Originality: Don’t copy what other businesses are doing. Stand out by offering new or better information.

Value: Make sure your content provides something useful, whether it’s tips, insights, or answers to common questions.

Additionally, User Experience (UX) plays a huge role in content quality. This means making sure your site is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and fast-loading. When visitors have a smooth experience, they stay longer and are more likely to convert.

Audience Research and Persona Development

To create content that really connects with your audience, you need to understand who they are. This is where buyer personas come in. A buyer persona is a profile that represents your ideal customer. It helps you focus on what your audience cares about, making your content more relevant and effective.

How to Create Buyer Personas:

Collect Data: Use Google Analytics, surveys, or customer feedback to learn more about your audience’s interests, age, location, and behavior.

Identify Pain Points: What problems are your customers facing? How can your product or service solve those issues?

Build a Persona: Create a profile that includes details like age, job role, challenges, and goals. For instance, if you run a gym in Toronto, one of your personas could be “Busy professionals in their 30s looking for flexible fitness options.”

By understanding your audience better, you can create content that speaks directly to their needs, increasing the chances that they’ll engage with your site and convert.

Keyword Research and Optimization

For SEO Toronto, choosing the right keywords is essential. Local keywords help your business show up in search results for people in your area. Generic keywords might bring in traffic, but local, long-tail keywords — phrases that are more specific — bring in people ready to take action.

How to Find the Right Keywords:

Local Search Tools: Tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs help you find keywords that people in Toronto are searching for.

Long-Tail Keywords: These are specific phrases that show more intent. For example, instead of using “SEO services,” you might target “affordable SEO services in Toronto” or “SEO content for local businesses in Toronto.”

Competitor Analysis: Check what keywords your competitors are ranking for and identify gaps where you can rank higher.

Once you have your keywords, use them naturally in your content, especially in titles, headers, and meta descriptions. Avoid overusing them – Google can tell when keywords are stuffed, and it can actually hurt your rankings.

Writing Engaging Content

Now that you have your keywords, it’s time to create engaging content that keeps your audience interested and converts them into customers. The key here is not just writing for search engines, but for real people.

Tips for Writing Effective Content:

Catchy Headlines: A strong headline grabs attention and makes people want to click. For example, “SEO Agency Toronto: Transforming Your Business from Zero to Hero” immediately tells the reader what they’ll learn.

Readable Structure: Break your content into short paragraphs, use subheadings, and include bullet points or numbered lists. This makes it easy for readers to scan your content and find what they’re looking for.

Multimedia: Include images, videos, or infographics to make your content more engaging. People respond better to visuals, and it increases the time they spend on your site.

When your content is easy to read and provides value, it’s more likely that people will stay on your site longer, increasing your chances of converting them into customers.

Local SEO Strategies

To rank better for Toronto-based searches, you need to optimize for local SEO. This means using strategies that help you rank higher when people search for businesses in your area.

How to Optimize for Local SEO:

Google My Business: Make sure your Google My Business listing is complete and accurate. This will help your business show up in Google’s local pack — the map results that appear for local searches.

Local Directories: List your business in local directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and other Toronto-based sites. This builds local citations, which helps improve your local SEO rankings.

Local Keywords: Use keywords that people in Toronto are likely to search for, like “best pizza in Toronto” or “affordable SEO services Toronto.”

By focusing on local SEO, you can connect with customers who are ready to visit your business or make a purchase.

Promoting Your Content

Creating great content is only half the battle — you also need to promote it. A big challenge for businesses is not having a clear plan for getting their content in front of the right people.

Promotion Tips:

Social Media: Share your blog posts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Join local groups or community forums in Toronto to share your expertise.

Email Marketing: Send your content to your email list. This keeps your audience engaged and brings them back to your site.

Collaborations: Partner with local influencers or bloggers to reach a wider audience. This can help boost your content’s visibility and credibility.

Promoting your content helps you reach more people, driving more traffic to your site and increasing the chances of turning visitors into customers.

Measuring Your Success

After putting in the work, you’ll want to know if your content is effective. Tracking the right metrics will help you see what’s working and what needs improvement.

Key Metrics to Track:

Page Views: How many people are visiting your content?

Bounce Rate: Are people leaving your site without interacting?

Conversion Rate: Are visitors becoming customers, signing up for your newsletter, or taking other actions?

By measuring these metrics, you can fine-tune your content strategy and continue improving your results.

Conclusion

To improve your SEO in Toronto, create relevant, original, and valuable content that targets local audiences. Use local SEO tactics, such as optimizing for Toronto-based keywords, improving user experience, and promoting your content through social media and directories.

Ready to take your content and SEO strategy to the next level? Contact iQlance today.

Call us at (+1) 647 637 9108 today to discover how our expert SEO strategies can help you create high-quality content that converts!

[needlesthc123]

The Healing Center

Many people travel to Needles, California, to hear the world-famous medley.

Our cannabis specialists are available to take your call at any hour of the day or night.

We take great pride in being one of the most well-known cannabis shops in the world dispensary near me I am happy to hear that our enhanced indica and sativa strains are even more potent than before.  Two varieties of high-quality cannabis have been provided to you. Thank you very much for helping me out. Edibles and vape pens are only two of the many cannabis products available at our dispensary.

Because of its superior functionality and performance, it has become the industry leader.

We will not be able to break into the massive medical marijuana market. Indeed, internet markets do keep tabs on the selling of tobacco and drugs. To find visually beautiful websites nowadays is a major undertaking.

The little California hamlet of Needles served as a major rest area along the historic Route 66 that ran between Arizona and California. Needles is home to a number of establishments, including the Healing Centre Weed Dispensary. Both of these locations might be in California. This region of California is unique because of all that is here. The odds of both of these places being in California are rather high. Strangely enough, the same structure houses not one but two cannabis dispensaries. It is the right thing to do to see the local talent. Each premium cannabis product has been hand-picked for our dispensary according to the specific advantages it provides. Feel free to make use of our search option at your leisure. You can find all of these things at our dispensary. A wide variety of cannabis products, including flower, extracts, candies, and more, are offered at the Healing Centre. No matter what kind of cannabis product you're after, this is crucial. Despite including all the necessary terms, our cannabis study is still unable to predict how long your disease will last. Please accept our deepest apologies if this is problematic for you. Our sincerest apologies if this was inconvenient in any way. You can have faith in this guarantee because it guarantees a pleasant and trouble-free transaction. Think about this if you're considering an online cannabis purchase. It would be completely irresponsible to ignore this.

Any inquiries you may have regarding our services can be answered by our kind and educated team. Your hospitality in letting us tour their showrooms is really appreciated. If you could kindly accept our invitation, we would be eternally grateful. To peruse our extensive selection and obtain up-to-date suggestions, visit any of these locations. At the Healing Centre dispensary, your health and happiness are our top priorities. Our greatest cannabis experience ever awaits us if we remain on Route 66. You are cordially invited. Having you there would be the most incredible blessing for us. If there's anything we can do for you, don't hesitate to contact us.

Facilitate the purchase of cannabis through internet marketplaces and dispensaries. Pay close attention to these instructions.

Take a look at our menu here at the Healing Centre dispensary to start the ordering process for cannabis goods for pickup. A lot of work could be saved if you could gather all the necessary information beforehand needles dispensary You are welcome to contact us at any hour of the day or night. Check out this different way of putting it. Once you've settled on a plan, picking out the components and amounts is as easy as dragging and dropping. A mastery of the art of twisting the key to start the engine will put all your problems to rest. Consider this more carefully if your handbags are on the pricier side.

We greatly appreciate your timely appearance to retrieve the things. If you follow the right procedures after you find them, you will be prepared. If you would like your order to be completed accurately, please fill out this form entirely. This request is necessary in order to finish the order. New users will be asked to provide identity when they sign up, while existing users will have full access to all functions. We will provide the user access to their account after the verification procedure is finished. They are unable to participate in the verification process due to a lack of proper credentials.

We will schedule garbage pickup at your curbside once we get your approval. When your order is prepared for pickup, we will send you a text message to let you know.

Here you can find all the information you need to know about the proper use of our cannabis products. We kindly ask for your full focus and attention. This is something we'd like to emphasise multiple times. Surely this is the deciding factor in their destiny.

[fulldip]

PlastiDip Near Me Exploring: A Handy Guide

What is PlastiDip Near Me?

PlastiDip is like magic paint that can transform things! It's a special kind of rubber coating that you spray onto objects to change their colour or protect them. Imagine you have a favourite mug, but it's starting to look a bit old and boring. PlastiDip near me can come to the rescue! You can spray it with Plasti Dip in a new colour, like blue or red, and suddenly, it's like you have a brand-new mug. But PlastiDip near me isn't just for mugs. You can use it on lots of stuff like car parts, tools, or even your bicycle. It sticks really well to all sorts of materials like metal, plastic, wood, and more.

One cool thing about Plasti Dip is that if you change your mind later and want your mug or whatever you've sprayed to go back to its original colour, you can just peel off the Plasti Dip like a sticker. It's like having a paint job that you can take off whenever you want! People also use PlastiDip near me to add grip to handles or to protect things from scratches and chips. It's kind of like a superhero for your stuff! So, if you're looking for an easy and fun way to change the colour of things or give them a protective coat, Plasti Dip might just be your new best friend. Just remember to use it in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions carefully for the best results!

Where Can I Find Plasti Dip Near Me?

Sure, let's dive into finding PlastiDip near me!

PlastiDip near me is a cool rubber coating you can use to spruce up your car, tools, or even household items. It comes in a variety of colours and finishes, and it's super handy for adding a new look or protecting surfaces.

So, where can you find PlastiDip near me? Here are a few places to check out:

Hardware Stores:

Your local hardware store is a great place to start. Places like B&Q, Wickes, or independent hardware stores often carry Plasti Dip in their automotive or paint sections.

Auto Parts Stores:

Shops like Halfords or Euro Car Parts might have what you need. They usually stock automotive supplies, including Plasti Dip for those DIY car projects.

Online Retailers:

If you prefer shopping from the comfort of your home, online retailers like Amazon or eBay have a wide selection of Plasti Dip colours and kits. Just type in what you need, and it'll be delivered right to your doorstep.

Specialty Shops:

Sometimes, specialty shops focusing on car modifications or detailing might carry Plasti Dip. These shops are often knowledgeable about the product and can provide advice on how to use it effectively.

Local Distributors:

Sometimes, Plasti Dip has local distributors in your area. You can check their official website or contact them directly to find out if there's one nearby.

Before you head out, it's a good idea to call ahead or check online to see if the store has the specific colour or quantity you're looking for. That way, you won't waste any time or petrol driving around.

Once you've got your hands on some Plasti Dip, you can let your creativity run wild! Whether you're customising your car's rims, adding a pop of colour to your tools, or experimenting with new designs, Plasti Dip near me is a fun and versatile way to upgrade your stuff.

Advantages of Using PlastiDip Near Me

Sure, let's talk about the advantages of using Plasti Dip in a simple and easy-to-understand way.

Plasti Dip is a really cool product that comes in a liquid form and dries into a flexible rubber coating. Here are some reasons why people like using it:

Colourful Fun: Plasti Dip comes in lots of different colours, so you can change the look of things easily. Whether it's your car, bike, or even your phone case, you can make it look cool and unique.

Protective Shield: It acts like a shield for whatever you put it on. It can protect surfaces from scratches, dings, and even the weather. So, if you want to keep your stuff looking new, Plasti Dip can help.

Easy to Apply: One of the best things about Plasti Dip is that it's super easy to use. You can spray it on or dip things into it. It's like painting, but way simpler. Plus, if you mess up, you can just peel it off and start again.

Versatile: You can use Plasti Dip on all sorts of things. From car parts to tools to furniture, the possibilities are endless. It sticks to almost anything, which makes it really handy.

Temporary Changes: If you like changing things up every now and then, Plasti Dip is perfect. Since it's removable, you can try out new looks without making a permanent commitment.

Affordable: Compared to other ways of customising or protecting things, Plasti Dip is quite affordable. You can get a can or a spray bottle for a reasonable price, and it goes a long way.

Remember, though, while Plasti Dip is great for a lot of things, it might not be the best choice for everything. But for adding some flair, protection, or a temporary change, it's definitely worth a try!

Understanding PlastiDip Near Me Applications

PlastiDip is a cool and handy way to change the color of things. It's like magic paint that you can peel off later! You might be wondering, "What can I use PlastiDip for near me?" Well, let's dive in!

Car Customization: One of the most popular uses of PlastiDip near me is on cars. People love to change the color of their car temporarily without committing to a permanent paint job. You can use PlastiDip on your car's rims, emblems, or even the whole car if you're feeling adventurous!

DIY Projects: PlastiDip near me isn't just for cars! You can use it for all sorts of DIY projects around your home. Want to give your old phone case a fresh look? PlastiDip it! Need to add some flair to your laptop? PlastiDip near me can do that too!

Tool Handles: Tired of your tools slipping out of your hands? Plasti Dip can help! Dip the handles of your tools to give them a better grip and a splash of color.

Home Décor: Spruce up your home with Plasti Dip! You can use it to add a pop of color to picture frames, vases, or even furniture legs. The possibilities are endless!

Craft Projects: Get creative with Plasti Dip! You can use it to create unique artwork, customise accessories like sunglasses or jewellery, or even make your own custom stencils for painting.

Remember, when using Plasti Dip, always follow the instructions on the can and test it on a small area first. And if you ever want to remove it, just peel it off – it's that easy!

So, whether you're jazzing up your car, getting crafty at home, or adding some flair to your tools, PlastiDip near you can be your go-to solution for fun and easy customisation!

How to Apply PlastiDip Near Me

Plasti Dip is a cool way to change the colour or add a protective layer to things like car rims, tools, or even phone cases. Applying Plasti Dip is easy and fun! Here's how you can do it:

First, make sure you're in a well-ventilated area, like outside or in a garage with the door open. Plasti Dip spray can be smelly and you don't want to breathe it in too much.

Next, clean whatever you're going to dip really well. Use soap and water to get rid of any dirt or grease. Let it dry completely before you start spraying.

Shake the can of Plasti Dip really well. You want the mixture to be nice and smooth. Then, hold the can about 6-8 inches away from the thing you're dipping. Press the nozzle and spray in a sweeping motion, kind of like you're painting. Make sure to overlap each pass a little bit to get even coverage.

Don't worry if it looks a bit thin at first. You can add more coats once the first one dries. It usually takes about 30 minutes to dry to the touch, but it's a good idea to wait a few hours before adding more coats.

If you mess up or don't like how it looks, don't panic! You can peel off Plasti Dip easily when it's dry. Just start at one edge and peel it away like a sticker.

Once you're happy with how it looks and it's completely dry, you're done! Enjoy your newly dipped stuff and show it off to your friends. Plasti Dip comes in lots of cool colours, so the possibilities are endless!

Removing Plasti Dip

Removing Plasti Dip is not as hard as it may seem. Plasti Dip is a rubber coating that people often use to change the color of their cars or other objects. Sometimes, though, you might want to remove it to reveal the original surface underneath. Here's how you can do it. First, you'll need some basic supplies. You'll need a Plasti Dip remover, which you can usually find at hardware stores or online. You'll also need some gloves to protect your hands and some old newspapers or a drop cloth to protect the area you're working in.

Start by making sure the surface you want to remove the Plasti Dip from is clean and dry. You don't want any dirt or grime getting in the way. Then, apply the Plasti Dip remover according to the instructions on the bottle. Usually, you'll spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes to work its magic. After the remover has had time to do its job, you can start peeling off the Plasti Dip. Depending on how thick the coating is, you might be able to peel it off in big chunks or small pieces. Just take your time and be patient – it might take a little bit of effort to get it all off.

If there are any stubborn bits of Plasti Dip that won't come off, you can try using a plastic scraper or even just your fingernails to gently scrape them away. Just be careful not to damage the underlying surface. Once you've removed all the Plasti Dip, give the area a good clean with some soap and water to remove any residue. Then, you're done! You should be left with a clean, bare surface ready for whatever you want to do next. Removing Plasti Dip might take a bit of time and effort, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it's definitely something you can do yourself. So don't be afraid to give it a go!

Maintaining Plasti Dip

Maintaining Plasti Dip is easy and important to keep your belongings looking fresh and protected. Whether you've dipped your car, tools, or other items, taking care of the Plasti Dip coating helps it last longer and stay vibrant.

Firstly, regular cleaning is key. Use a mild detergent and water to gently wash the dipped surface. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can damage the coating. A soft sponge or cloth works well for cleaning without scratching.

Inspect your Plasti Dip regularly for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any peeling or areas where the coating is thinning, you can easily touch up those spots with more Plasti Dip. Make sure to clean and dry the area before applying new coats for better adhesion.

Protect your dipped items from extreme weather conditions whenever possible. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, or snow can cause the Plasti Dip to degrade faster. Parking your car in a garage or using protective covers can help extend the life of the coating.

Avoid using petroleum-based products or gasoline near Plasti Dip, as these can cause it to dissolve or become sticky. If you accidentally spill such substances, clean the affected area immediately with soap and water to prevent damage.

Lastly, consider using Plasti Dip enhancers or top coats for added protection and shine. These products can help maintain the colour and finish of your dipped items while providing extra durability against scratches and fading.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Plasti Dip stays looking great for a long time to come. Regular cleaning, inspection, protection from the elements, and gentle care will help preserve the integrity of the coating and keep your belongings looking their best.

Cost Considerations

Cost considerations are really important when you're thinking about money. It's all about thinking carefully about how much things cost and how they fit into your budget. When you're making decisions about what to buy or how to spend your money, it's smart to consider the costs involved. This helps you make sure you're not spending more money than you have or buying things you don't really need. One big part of cost considerations is comparing prices. This means looking at how much different things cost and deciding which one offers the best value for your money. Sometimes, you might find that something you want is cheaper at one store than at another. By comparing prices, you can make sure you're getting the best deal possible.

Another important thing to think about is whether you really need something. Sometimes, we see something we want and we think we have to have it right away. But it's a good idea to stop and ask ourselves if it's something we really need. Thinking about whether something is a necessity or just a want can help us make better decisions about where to spend our money. Budgeting is also a key part of cost considerations. A budget is like a plan for how you're going to spend your money. By creating a budget, you can make sure you have enough money for the things you need, like food and bills, while still having some left over for things you want. Budgeting helps you stay in control of your finances and avoid spending more money than you have.

Finally, it's important to think about the long-term costs of your decisions. Sometimes, something might seem cheap upfront, but end up costing you more money in the long run. For example, buying a cheap appliance might save you money at first, but if it breaks down quickly and you have to replace it, it could end up costing you more in the long term. Thinking about the long-term costs can help you make smarter decisions about how to spend your money. In conclusion, cost considerations are all about thinking carefully about how much things cost, comparing prices, deciding if you really need something, budgeting, and considering the long-term costs of your decisions. By taking these things into account, you can make sure you're making the best choices for your finances.

Plastidip Near Me Customization Possibilities

Looking to add a personal touch to your belongings? Plastidip near me offers a world of customization possibilities right at your fingertips! Whether you want to jazz up your car, revamp your bike, or add flair to household items, Plastidip is the way to go. But what exactly can you customize with Plastidip? Let's explore!

First off, cars! With Plastidip, you can change the colour of your car without the commitment of permanent paint. From sleek black to vibrant red, the choice is yours. Plus, if you ever want to revert to the original colour, simply peel off the Plastidip – easy peasy!

Bikes are another canvas for your creativity. Whether you want to add racing stripes, camouflage patterns, or a pop of neon, Plastidip can transform your bike into a unique ride that turns heads wherever you go.

But wait, there's more! Plastidip isn't just for vehicles. You can also use it to customise household items like phone cases, laptop covers, and even furniture. Add a splash of colour or create funky designs – the possibilities are endless!

The best part? Plastidip is easy to use. Simply clean the surface, spray on the Plastidip, let it dry, and voila – instant customisation! Plus, it's durable and peelable, so you can change your mind as often as you like without damaging your belongings.

So, if you're ready to unleash your creativity and add a personal touch to your world, look no further than Plastidip. With its endless customisation possibilities, you'll be amazed at what you can create!

Plastidip Near Me Safety Precautions

When you're thinking about using Plastidip near me, it's important to keep safety in mind. Plastidip is a handy product for coating and protecting surfaces, but it's crucial to handle it safely.

Here are some easy-to-follow safety precautions:

Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Whether you're spraying indoors or outdoors, good ventilation helps prevent the buildup of fumes.

Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, safety goggles, and a mask, to shield yourself from potential splashes, fumes, and dust.

Skin Protection: Cover any exposed skin to avoid direct contact with Plastidip. If it gets on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.

Eye Protection: Protect your eyes by wearing safety goggles. Accidental splashes or sprays can cause irritation or injury to your eyes.

Avoid Flames: Plastidip is flammable when wet, so keep it away from flames, sparks, or sources of ignition. Make sure your work area is free from any potential fire hazards.

Read Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines provided on the product label or packaging.

Keep Away from Children and Pets: Store Plastidip out of reach of children and pets. It's not intended for ingestion and can be harmful if swallowed.

Dispose Properly: Dispose of used Plastidip and its containers responsibly according to local regulations. Avoid pouring it down drains or disposing of it in household waste.

Clean Up Spills Promptly: If you spill Plastidip, clean it up immediately using appropriate methods and materials. Avoid letting it dry or spread to unwanted areas.

Store Correctly: Store unused Plastidip in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Seal containers tightly to prevent drying out or leakage.

By following these simple safety precautions, you can enjoy using Plastidip for your projects with peace of mind, knowing that you're protecting yourself and those around you from potential hazards.

[raindropsandstardust-blog]

Swifties Guide to Movie Theaters 🪩✨

Hello my fellow swifties!! Since the concert movie comes out soon, I wanted to give everyone a little guide on theater etiquette. (My qualifications being that I’m part of theater crew since I work at a movie theater)

Big thank you to @taylorswift and @taylornation for making this happen!!

Eras Specific Stuff 🦋✨

Can we dress up?

Of course! Super excited to see everyone’s outfits during my shifts this weekend :)

Can we trade bracelets?

OF COURSE!! I plan on trading when I see the film and also during my shifts if I have any left :)

Can we sing/dance? Can we stand?

By all means, sing and dance! We want you to have fun! As for standing, I’d just say to read the room. If others are standing, cool, stand! If people wanna sit, let them sit and be able to see Taylor.

How much are tickets?

Adult tickets are $19.89

Senior and Child tickets are $13.13

Tickets may end up costing more if you decide to see the movie in another format (IMAX, Dolby, Prime, etc.)

No vouchers or discounts can be used on these unfortunately. Even if you have a membership with the theater. (I had to pay even as an employee)

How much are collectibles?

This is gonna vary from theater to theater! And from item to item! I would look on the theaters website. You can also call your local theater and ask, we’re happy to help!

How early are collectibles available?

They’re gonna be available as soon as the movie is out. There’s no getting them early, unfortunately. Be aware that collectibles for big movies like this one go FAST. If possible, go to your theater on release date when it opens for the day, you might have a better chance of getting something then!

Let me know if you guys want a part two, and what questions I should answer!