#but even the blank spaces can provide useful information

[thatfizzyyyy]

2 day streak of journaling after weeks of nothing🥳

[autumnslance]

Hi! I’ve been trying to make an introductory post for my WoL, but when I tried doing so freeform it ended up overly long and full of rambling. I’ve searched for templates all over the internet, but the only ones I can find are in the general style of D&D character sheets that include irrelevant information about stats while not properly dedicating space to the actual character traits. I saw the format you used for your OCs, and it seems to be about what I’m looking for. Is there any chance you could provide a blank template along those lines for me and others who might have the same problem?

Funnily, while I keep them all similar, I didn't have a template before now. Also reminds me I need to do some updating and revision on my own OCs, it's been awhile and they can use a refresh for character and plot updates.

I recommend making static pages over posts; easier to track and edit. I am a stickler for organization, so keep my pinned post to the bare basics with links to the profiles and other pages, to keep from stretching the post to a mile long, in part, and to keep the info where it's easily read and relevant. Also because mobile app view won't show one's theme and links, and the pinned post is more likely to be seen and accessible than a sidebar or menu.

I have tutorials on how to set a custom theme (and access full blog features) as well as how to create those static blog pages. Tumblr may have made some updates since, but the gist is the same, and the Help pages have newer details if necessary.

I do urge keeping colors and format simple, accessible, and reader friendly, including screen reader friendly. A row of asterisks or tildes as a separator line are usually individually read out by screen readers, as is the code used to make those fancy hard-to-read gothic letters folks use for "aesthetics." In a lot of my profiles, I split sections with images of the character (which should also use alt text if we're trying to be kind and inclusive, and it's to the point of a profile page anyway).

I think I will put the intro and template here in the post under a cut, and then in a Reply Comment add a link to the Google Doc version, cuz of how Tumblr is about external links. An actual blank copy-pasta is on the GDoc, what's below has some thought processes for each section for guidance.

This a pretty modular template, that can be added to or subtracted from as needed. Move descriptive blocks around as they seem more or less relevant for your OC, substitute things that make sense over things that don’t; this is just a starting point!

I see these as broad strokes; a quick introduction and general overview of your character, meant to give an at-a-glance idea of who they are. It’s handy for other writers and artists, and even oneself for keeping track of some details. I recommend practicing succinct writing here; these blocks should each stay between 100-300 words or thereabouts. Use links to other pages and tags to point toward longer details and stories (and keep them handy for yourself!). It also makes it much easier when you want to revise things when characterization marches forward, or if you want to retcon something entirely.

But these are all just my opinions and ideas on how I approach OC profiles after making them in some form or another for about a quarter century. Make it as long or short as it needs to be, change it up, go nuts, I ain’t your mom, and so on 😉

-

Statistics: The basics; barebones, at-a-glance stat blocks, handy for quick reference. Can be added to or shortened as needed. If a stat starts to word wrap on a standard screen, trim it and move that extra detail to the “Description” paragraph below the list.

Race: (for FF14 fantasy possibilities) Nationality: (or Ethnicity, whatever works. Where are they from, as that helps shape them?) Height: (both feet/inches and centimeters are handy here) Eyes: Build: (I prefer this to weight, as that’s ridiculously variable depending on one’s build, which is more important visually anyway; are they broad, stocky, skinny, muscular, stringy, etc) Hair: (color, type, texture, preferred lengths and styling) Skin: (sometimes I fold scars into here, if there’s nothing too outstanding) Scars: Voice: (how do they sound?) Nameday: Age: (depends on your personal timeline for your OCs, but I recommend an age range over specifics; mid-20s, 25-35, late teens, a little over a century, etc. Less updating and fits with the handwaved time bubble anyway) Disciplines: (what are their main job[s]? The adventuring or professional skills they’ve learned?) Hobbies: Birthplace: Current Home: Occupation: (Their actual day job, different from or part of their disciplines?) Signature Items: (A particular weapon? A piece of jewelry? Always wear a specific coat?)

Description: A very short "immediate impressions" type description; what would someone "on the street" see when meeting/looking at your character on a typical day? Taking some of the info from the stats but then how you want those barebone facts to be seen; is the OC elegant, or rough? Expensive clothes or simple attire? Any particular smells, or sounds? I recommend around 100 words.

Biography: Very brief, general overview of the backstory that led them to the point where they become a story protagonist (adventurer, the WoL, or other roleplay archetype). Don't have to go into great detail, keep it short and simple; it's a blurb that sets up how they got here in broad strokes. I think my longest bio is around 300 words, and it probably shouldn’t go over that here.

To get more details, one can always link to specific stories, or to a tag. I have multiple OCs, so I might make my tags something like "Aeryn Backstory" or "Iyna Lore" or "Punchy History" or some combo thereof (I usually try to keep them consistent though for ease).

Persona: What face do they present to the world? How are they perceived by the public, acquaintances, coworkers, family, actual friends? Some of these answers will be the same, some may change depending on if and how they code switch in various social situations.

From there, what lies underneath the surface? What are some general internal attitudes, traits, feelings?

A hundred words for outward demeanor and another one hundred for innermost self ought to cover the general broad strokes.

Romance: If so inclined, details about the OC's relationship details; sexual and romantic orientations, relationship history, current situations, how they view and approach intimacy (or not!).

Links to relationship tags or stories or art can work well here, too.

Echo: Does the OC have an Echo at all? Is it a "typical" Echo, or do they have some special abilities, some things they're better at than others? How does it affect them, how do they feel about it?

This is another section that may be a free space section to remove or swap to something else relevant to the character.

Hobbies: The stuff outside of work and heroics. Ways they relax, special interests, side jobs, things they enjoy, and so on. This can be an expansion of the listing in the stat block, or you can cut out one or the other to avoid redundancy.

Companions: What’s their chocobo like, or do they have another favored mount? What pet(s) do they have? Are they practically a Disney Princess? Have a familiar? Do they prefer arcane entities? Technological constructs? Or do they eschew companions entirely?

How to find the OC in game: This is where I list things like realm and data center, and addresses for the FC house and personal house or apartment. Not necessary if you don't want folks to go looking.

Links: The links can be scattered through the post in relevant sections, or gathered together here. I tend to put my basic tag for the character, if I have an aesthetic tag for them, their story tags, any links to art references or other miscellaneous items I want easily found for myself and others. I often put this close to the top if a profile is longer and I want those links to be quick referenced.

OOC: Any particular notes one wants to make about the character from a meta perspective. Can also be combined with the Links.

[sixpennydame]

You're Not a Hunter, You're a Gatherer

It seems that every writer moot I have is feeling some kind of burn-out right now. I read an amazing post today from Sarah Gottesdiener of The Moon Studio that I think every writer/artist/creative needs to hear:

Many of us are taught to be creators in a way that mimics punishment and productivity culture. To push, force, and maybe even flagellate ourselves into making work.

(Then when it comes to sharing work publicly, it’s another little punishment party going full blast inside, amirite?)

This is a capitalist, patriarchal, hierarchal way of doing things.

To hunt down our innocent ideas and wrangle them in between our bloody, iron grip hands feels like abuse.

To contort our process, our work, and maybe even ourselves so that we might create work that we *think* will get us: paid, laid, loved, and accepted. (Which are all branches of the same gorgeous tree of belonging and security. May we all experience these freely!)

You are not a hunter. Exhausting yourself by chasing down the next innocent idea like that will solve your problems when it only feeds the loop of insecurity and lack. When you operate in hunter mode, deep in a dopamine deficiency, relying on the next big kill to satiate the gaping void inside, nothing you do will ever be enough.

You are a gatherer. Everything you need is a stones throw, or a right click, or a meditation, or a conversation away. Everything you create is a conversation with the world, and it is infinite. Because source is infinite. Ideas are infinite, and form is infinite. Deep exhale.

​ The hunter mentality, complete with spears and endless bloodshed, can live inside of our processes. Ursula K. LeGuin suggests a different approach, the Carrier Bag Method. The first tool was a net, a vessel. Thousands of years ago our ancient ancestors foraged, gathered, carried the life force of abundance back to their homes, and were nourished. This process required curiosity, patience, and an ability to use what already existed on the land they inhabited.

​ Your creations are meant to be friends, stewards of your ideas, companions to others’ fruits, and in conversation with the greater world.

When you create from that space, it’s much easier to get ideas, have a process that is delightful, and share your work with ease.

Here’s an overview of one of the creative processes that works for me. ​ 1. Everything I create is for me, first. What excites me, or interests me, or will force to grow, learn, or implement different behaviors? That is my starting point. ​

2. Structure proceeds flow. Creativity needs containers. Create core intentions and fun rules. Outlines, lists, schedules all help to provide a base, an anchor, some scaffolding. ​

3. Use the Carrier Bag Method whenever possible. Live life. Look around. Gather. A conversation, an insight on a walk, a podcast episode, a shade of the sky: anything and all things can be inspiration. Anything that sparks insight can be fertilizer for creative projects. Never start from a blank page of life. ​

4. Program the subconscious to be the master creator. Know how you ask Siri to set timers, look up information, and help you out? That’s what your subconscious is…but for, like, your intuitive creations and messages. Tell your subconscious you need to write that book, that social media message, that report, or that newsletter by a certain time in a certain way in a certain way and watch what happens.

[richincolor]

Book Review: Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer, adapted by Monique Gray Smith and illustrated by Nicole Neidhardt

Publisher summary: Drawing from her experiences as an Indigenous scientist, botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer demonstrated how all living things—from strawberries and witch hazel to water lilies and lichen—provide us with gifts and lessons every day in her best-selling book Braiding Sweetgrass. Adapted for young adults by Monique Gray Smith, this new edition reinforces how wider ecological understanding stems from listening to the earth’s oldest teachers: the plants around us. With informative sidebars, reflection questions, and art from illustrator Nicole Neidhardt, Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults brings Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and the lessons of plant life to a new generation.

My thoughts: I don’t know who had the idea to make this adaptation, but this book is a gift and we’re fortunate that people worked together to make this happen. Monique Gray Smith and Nicole Neidhardt have shared Robin’s words in an extraordinary way. They managed to maintain the message of the book while also making it accessible and visually appealing to a younger audience or even adult readers who appreciate fewer words with a larger font, more blank space, and beautiful images that support the text. This book carries so much meaning and love and I’m thankful that it is in the world for young readers.

Braiding Sweetgrass is about connection and being in relationship with the earth, plants, animals, and humans. It’s an inspirational book that is part memoir, part science text, and part love letter. If you’re thinking that the text is doing a lot, you are not wrong, but it’s never chaotic. The text, colors, and images are peaceful and encourage pauses and contemplation.

Readers begin with an introduction to sweetgrass and an invitation to remember our connection to the world and the beings within it. Throughout the book, there are quotes pulled from the text that are featured within a circle of sweetgrass. The first one really sets the tone: “Imagine how less lonely the world would be if we knew and believed that we didn’t have to figure everything out by ourselves.” Another explains about that honorable harvest is “to take only what is given, to use it well, to be grateful for the gift, and to reciprocate the gift.”  There are also small boxes that include definitions of key words like reciprocity or kin. Questions are also scattered around like, “What’s your first memory of being connected to all living beings? or “In what ways can stories be medicine?”

The reader is meant to think about the concepts in the book, but action is also strongly encouraged. When Kimmerer shares about trees that collectively fruit across the state, she explains that “all flourishing is mutual.” This is followed by questions about how to apply this to social justice and the current issues in our own neighborhoods. We have a responsibility to the earth and each other and are reminded many times through these pages.

One aspect of the text is about the contrasts between Indigenous ways of knowing and scientific (what is taught in typical US academic institutions) ways of knowing. Readers see how Kimmerer struggled with this in her college years and ultimately remembered how to learn from nature in a rich way. Native scholar Greg Cajete is referenced at one point. He wrote about Indigenous ways of knowing explaining that we understand something only when we have understood it with all four aspects of our being: mind, body, emotion, and spirit. The writings and stories in Braiding Sweetgrass show how to attend to all of the aspects and find the beauty in this world.

Speaking of beauty, the illustrations definitely help to express the wonders of our world and whether it be plants, animals, humans or anything else. They don’t just teach–many communicate healing and connection. Some are simple diagrams like when there is an eye and the parts are detailed, but others are art that illustrates a story or images that speak to the heart.

Recommendation: Get it now. I recommend this for any young person especially if you are interested in science and living beings. It’s also an excellent book for anyone who is feeling isolated or who is seeking connection. I think the words in this book can bring healing to readers and lead to healing in our world.

Publisher: Lerner Publishing Group

Pages: 304

Availability: On shelves now

Review copy: Purchased

Extras:

Visit the Lerner site where there is a download of the Thanksgiving Address illustration for download.

TeenLive Author Talk: Braiding Sweetgrass from The New York Public Library on Vimeo.

Watch a Kitchen Table Discussion with the authors and illustrator about the process of creating this book.

[tr0v3]

Are Videogames Worthy Of History?

Almost every medium of art and storytelling has a place within established historical scholarship - Film, Music and Drama are not only academic disciplines within their own right, but are useful sources of information and mediums of communication for historians! Academic institutions across the world utilize everything from photography to animation for historical work...but videogames are much rarer to see in research or education. Why?

Using Amnesia: The Bunker (ATB) as a case study and Henry Jenkins' Game Design As Narrative Architecture as a theoretical basis, I am going to present a brief, basic analysis of how a videogame can be 'historical'!

Consider this a simple starting point for anyone new to the topics - for a deeper analysis that does this topic justice, I'd reccommend reading Jenkin's own piece for yourself HERE!

~

Art, for better or worse, is a vehicle for wide consumption of History. School curriculums aside, we recieve historical narratives, stories of the past, in the form of films and plays and even videogames all the time - even if they aren't neccessarily accurate representations of past events. Take for instance the myriad of WW1 films made in the last century, or Shakespeare's historical plays - maybe even YouTubers have provided some History to you, in the form of fun animated videos? Popular culture has a role in defining past narratives, and although they are relativly new, videogames have long been a cultural conduit of all things, including history. So how do they actually interact with History?

Functionally, videogames are unique from other forms of media because of how integral interactivity is to their design. Games are not watched or read - they are played, and require active participation from players, rather than passive viewers or readers. The freedom and control neccessary for fun gameplay often clashes with attempts to impose a narrative on a game however, leading to the unique problem of ludonarrative dissonance.

There have been years of extensive discussions about ludonarrative dissonance and the limits of its usefulness as a concept, but Jenkins' Game Design As Narrative Architecture identifies a key concept that can overcome the issue, at least to an extent - Spaciality.

Essentially, Jenkins argues that Spaciality, the shape and structure of the world within a videogame, allows for Environmental Storytelling - showing narrative (and historical!) ideas through the game's virtual space. There are four ways in which Environmental Storytelling can be used to immerse a player in a narrative, unique to videogames - Evocative Spaces, Enacting Stories, Embedded Narratives and Emergent Narratives.

EVOCATIVE SPACES

When a videogame vaguely connotes a historical setting, prompting us to recall broad ideas of that historical period from our preconcieved notions about it from other media we've seen - that's an Evocative Space.

ATB is not really a WW1 game, the war is merely a distant backdrop for the game's story. However, little things from the the barbed wire loading screen to the ocassional muffled boom of an explosion on the surface brings about a reminder that the player is in the midst of The Great War. From the buttoned uniforms and low-tech electric lighting, enough elements familiar to us from history classes or war documentaries are present to let our imagination fill in the blanks.

As a game with a fictional story within a factual setting, ATB evokes the thought and memory of World War One, making it a historical game via Evocative Spaces.

ENACTING STORIES

Narratives within games can be broken into two - broadly defined objectives that run throughout the entirety of the game, and short, 'localized'/'episodic' sequences that the player experiences in certain areas of the game. Unlike other forms of media, a videogame can manage ludonarrative dissonance by breaking up the majority of the story into these smaller 'localized'/'episodic' sequences. These are all experienced by the player first hand, hence the name 'Enacting Stories'.

ATB employs this effectivly by having a singular overarching goal throughout the majority of the game, but numerous sub-objectives and optional goals that aren't strictly linear, and exist as sub-objectives within an open 'free roam' environment for players to explore. For example, the player must obtain both The Dynamite and The Detonator Handle, but they can do so in any order.

Its possible to complete ATB without experiencing every localized/episodic sequence in a certain order because none of those events disrupt the scripted narrative sequences at the start and end of the game, making ATB a successful example of Enacting Stories. This is true for the game as a self-contained piece of fiction, but also a historical game - the story does not affect the wider events of WW1, or attempt to rewrite history in any significant way.

EMBEDDED NARRATIVES

In a similiar fashion to backstory reveals in detective novels or flashback sequences in a movie, videogames can tell their narratives out of order. By utilizing Environmental Storytelling to reveal narrative elements, videogames can provide a story as less of a linear plot and more as a mystery to piece together with clues littered throughout the virtual space. This creates what is called an Embedded Narrative.

ATB's narrative can be broken into another two parts - past and present. While there is an Enacted Story being played in the current moments within the game's world, the environments of the game provide clues and insights into past events that have shaped the game world as it is currently, a history within the game's world. All across the environments of the game, evidence of the past narrative can be found - broken furniture, decaying bodies, and even notes that detail character's thoughts, experiences and events. All this backstory is hidden throughout the game in a variety of sources for players to find, much like how real historians in the real world piece together evidence from the past to build narratives of actual events in the real world.

ATB is among many horror games with mystery narratives - Five Nights at Freddy's and Iron Lung come to mind - and like these, the entirety of the story can only be understood through investigation of the environments, a successfully Embedded Narrative. Is that story historical though?

ATB is decently accurate to history - but there are no historical references more specific than the technology present in the game, such as Joubert's radio in the Soldier Quarters or the wheel mechanism that unlocks the Emergency Lockdown. It is an entirely fictional scenario within a broad historical setting, and isn't deeply linked to real events - the narrative is embedded in the environment, but the narrative is entirely fictional. Only the setting is historical.

EMERGENT NARRATIVES

Out of Jenkins' four theories on Environmental Storytelling, this is the only one that is not really present in ATB - an Emergent Narrative is when player choices are mapped onto a game's space to invent a narrative in real time - and although you can technically take actions like moving boxes and blowing up barrels, these are intended to be tactical decisions rather than meaningful or cosmetic choices. Games like The Sims or Minecraft would be much better examples of how a game can truly be a sandbox for both gameplay and narrative.

CONCLUSIONS

In the spirit of Remembrance, I've chosen to focus on a game set in the First World War - but is Amnesia: The Bunker even a historical game?

I would argue that yes, the game has a historical setting and in terms of 'Historicality', it does feature details that help immerse the player in the setting...however,the historical aspect of ATB is ultimately quite surface level, and doesn't really go beyond a general setting. It does not feature interactions with any real historical figures or actual events from the past, nor does it attempt to present anything as actual history. ATB employs Embedded Narratives and Enacting Stories for its fictional plot, but only communicates real history through Evocative Spaces. The game is fantastically designed to provide story elements in an immersive and seamlessly-integrated fashion, but isn't comparable to other forms of media dedicated to recreating historical narratives.

Is this really a limitation though? If the game was too bogged down in being historically accurate or linking itself to real world events, it might be less engaging narratively. Even if the game's historical element is 'surface-level', it avoids interfering too much with the entertainment of the gameplay or the thrills of the horror - and that may just make the historical aspects of the game more appealing for players to explore for themselves.

Perhaps videogames are still too young, too new, to be compared to Film or anything else that has integrated itself into historical study over the decades - but Amnesia: The Bunker shows that with good design, there is potential for historical videogames. Maybe videogames aren't worthy of History...yet.

[my-insanity-is-an-artform]

The OC Switch - Portals

I was supposed to write about Teatime. Wild wanted to meet Aaliyah and now it's nearly 5am. Rip to me I guess.

@neverchecking, I hope I did your girl at least a bit of justice but this is from Wild's pov so I'm blaming him.

Wild shook his head lightly as he stepped out of the portal. Every portal was always a little disorientating even with his experience of Sheikah Tech. The feeling of being magically transported through time and space was vastly different to the colder electric feeling of moving from shrine to shrine.

Rolling his shoulders to remove the vestiges of discomfort, he pulled the Sheikah Slate from his belt and glanced at it, frowning. The map was acting oddly. In most Hyrules, all it showed was static and the same blank page he’s had at the very beginning of his adventure. In his own Hyrule and in Cal’s, the map was filled out and clear, providing up-to-date information regarding the weather and the time.

This place however made the map glitch and a box popped up stating ‘CONNECTION ERROR’.

Which had never happened before.

Time finally stepped through the portal and it fizzled out behind him. “Sound off.”

Various voices called out, but Wild didn’t, too distracted as he poked at the screen.

“Wild and I are here.” Cal reported quietly. He’d been standing quietly next to Wild, curiously glancing over his shoulder.

“Wild? Is there something wrong?” Time turned to the two which also made the whole group turn towards them.

Cal shifted uneasily. They had only picked up the Hero of Calamity a few weeks back and he still had a habit of freezing up whenever attention focused on him. He’d loosened up, but there was still a ways to go.

Wild jabbed at the screen again. “My slate’s being weird. This isn’t my Hyrule, at least according to this, but it’s glitching.”

Suddenly, a bolt of light connected with a nearby tree, leaving a scorch mark and causing every single person to draw their sword.

“Identify Yourselves!” A feminine voice demanded. Both Wild and Cal froze.

The voice was familiar. Too familiar.

“Who are you to make demands when you attacked first?” Warriors said, taking a step forward only to pause when a woman stepped out from behind another tree, pointing a glowing bow directly at his head.

“Princess Zelda?” “Your highness?” Both Wild and Cal spoke at the same time, but denial shot through them.

This Zelda was clearly a bit older than either of theirs. Her hair was pulled back into a long braid, showing off the almost lightning-like scars that trailed up the right side of her face like a warped mirror of Wild’s own scars. The scars ran down her neck and under the sensible tunic and leather combination most travellers wore.

There was also the way this woman held herself. Confident without excess and comfortable enough with the bow that it held steady even as eleven swords were pointed awkwardly in her direction.

She looked like their Zeldas, but it was very obvious she wasn’t.

She glanced at them both briefly. “You are certainly neither of my heroes if you call me by that name. You came from a portal reeking of darkness. Identify yourselves else prove yourselves a threat to this land.”

“My name is Time and these are my companions. We are seeking the one who is making these portals and transporting monsters through them. Please, we mean you no harm.” Time sheathed his sword and held up his hands. “We also seek the Hero of this land. We believe that Hylia has called him to defend Hyrule once more just as she has with each of us.”

The woman snorted. “I have two heroes of courage under my protection and they shall come only if they wish. She can come down here and ask them herself if she wishes to toy with either of them.”

Sky and First looked as if they desperately wanted to object, but since she was still pointing a glowing arrow at Warriors’ head, they both bit their tongues and tried to still their impulses.

Still her eyes caught on the aborted movement and she stared at them. Something had caught her attention and her eyes narrowed.

“Is that the Master Sword?”

The group tensed as Sky nodded. She stared for a moment then nodded. “Then step forward and put it on the ground. We’ll see if you are who you claim to be.”

Cautiously, Sky took a few steps past Warriors and jammed the Master Sword into the ground before retreating to Warriors’ side. Her eyes squinted at him but let him remain next to the other.

Wild cast his eyes about as each of his brothers all shifted uneasily. They’d been thrown off guard by her appearance and knowledge and it was hard to make a choice. She hadn’t been entirely unreasonable. They had come from a dark portal and it was eleven to one. It wasn't unreasonable that she wanted to defend herself.

And she claimed she had two heroes to protect. How in the name of all the gods had that happened?

The woman smoothly approached the Master Sword and pressed a knee against the blade which glowed and let out a strange chime.

The woman glanced down at it and softened. “I suppose you can vouch for all of them, Fi?”

The sword chimed again and Wild nearly dropped his sword. Just who the hell was this woman?!

The sword chimed once more then dimmed and fell silent.

All tension in the woman dissipated and the bow vanished in a flicker of light. She wrapped a hand around the handle and pulled it easily from the ground. She smiled softly as she tested it’s weight, like she was greeting an old friend. “I apologise for my behaviour, but we’ve had issues with imposters recently and word of these portals unleashing strange monsters has everyone on edge.” She looked up towards him and Cal. “I take it neither of your Zeldas had visions when she was a child?”

“Visions?” Wild asked weakly. Next to him Cal tensed up, clearly uncomfortable with this woman who looked so much like their Zelda looking at them.

Her ear flicked, but her expression stayed gentle. “I had visions when I was younger. And a major personality change if your Zeldas are anything like the one we have to deal with.” Exasperation was clear in her voice.

“What are you talking about?” Wind burst out, voicing the thought they were all thinking.

“Oh, sorry. My name is Tia and I am a version of Zelda, specifically your Zelda.” She pointed at Wild.  He couldn’t help but stare. This woman was supposed to be a version of his Zelda. Like Cal was a version of him specifically. Impossible.

Tia smiled wryly. “I know it sounds complicated, but the long and short of it is when I was seven, I had visions of Ganon and what I assume was your adventure. I got brief glimpses at the other heroes, some clearer than others but you were the main one. A few months ago, my Hyrule merged with another version of Hyrule that was on a similar timeline. We’d both gone through the Calamity and… some other factors which I promise I will explain in a better location.” She added hurriedly before Wild could interrupt. “The main difference between our Hyrules was me and the consequences of my actions versus an additional Champion in the other Hyrule, a Sheikah Champion.”

Wild and Cal couldn’t help but tense up at the idea of another champion. One they could’ve failed and probably had in this version of Hyrule.

“Her name is Aaliyah and she basically attached to the hip with Link. Well, that version of Link we refer to as Sage and my original version we usually call Champ. The convergence was very confusing, but the end result was some people merged with their counterparts, others remained separate due to the fact they were too different or.. not dead really.” Tia explained, finishing awkwardly.  

“What do you mean not dead?” Warriors asked with a baffled expression.

Tia’s expression wavered for a moment then she licked her lips and looked directly at Wild. “The champions. Revali, Mipha, Daruk and Urbosa. They’re alive alongside others like your sister. I saved them.”

Wild felt the world go blurry. The champions? Alive?

And… a sister?

The world went dark.

Ten minutes later, Wild had recovered enough to walk back to Tia’s encampment. She was leading them next to Time and Warriors, who’d seemingly forgiven her for holding him hostage, discussing the portals. He noticed she kept glancing back at him worriedly.

He wished she’d stop.

Cal hovered by his side. It’d been hard at first, confronted with a version of himself that had won. But something about the other had him sliding him into the same place in his heart where he kept all of his brothers.

And now…

“Why didn’t you tell me we have a sister?” Wild asked quietly.

Cal winced and his lips pursed. He blinked several times and steeled himself. “I… I had hoped you would at least remember her a little bit. I haven’t seen her since I joined the knights.”

It was clearly a sensitive subject and Wild was no stranger to those. He dropped it.

But something else bugged him. “Do you have a Sheikah Champion?”

Cal shook his head. “No, we only have five of us plus the Princess. The Sheikah never had a champion.”

Guess that was something else different about this Hyrule. “Wonder what she’s like? Zel-Tia said they were attached at the hip to her version of us.”

Cal hummed in agreement before a loud laugh in interrupted all conversations through the whole group.

“GET HIS ASS SUNSHINE!”

This voice was again familiar. A little rougher but still undeniably his own voice.

Tia’s shoulders slumped. “I’ve been gone for twenty minutes. What on Farore’s Green lands have they been up to?” She muttered before breaking into a light jog.

Bursting from the tree line, Wild saw a version of himself, older and more ragged with shorter hair and a strange black arm, laugh as yet another version, one with longer hair and similar arm bands, wiggle helplessly in the grasp of the most beautiful woman he had ever seen in his life.

She had gorgeous short white hair like moonlight on snow. Her lean body seemed to weave through the air like she was the wind itself. Her smile lit up her entire face and Wild swore not even stars would outshine the gold in her eyes. He could see the way her muscles flexed under her silken dark skin as she casually tossed the wiggling counterpart directly into the river.

Gods, he wished that was him.

Cal let out a small quiet noise like a mouse being stepped on.

Wild nodded in agreement.

Yeah, he felt that.

The gorgeous Sheikah stood on the edge of the river, arms raised in victory as she laughed brightly. The sunlight seemed dim in comparison.

“Who the hell are these guys?” The growl of his own voice grabbed his attention for a moment and he glanced to see Tia linking her arm with the rougher version of himself and giving it a light squeeze. He seemed to be glaring directly at him and Cal who was still glancing at the Sheikah.

“Link, this is Link, Link, Link, Link, Link, Link, Link, Link, Link, Link, and Link. They're heroes from past eras.” She said entirely with an innocently straight face, pointing to each of them in turn. He adjusted his arm around her shoulders and pinned her to his side, angling her away from them.

“What.”

“Those portals with the monsters apparently connect to other times which is why I felt like I recognised some of them. These heroes have been dragged around trying to find the culprit.” Tia leaned against him.

The counterpart glared briefly at the group then down at her. “I thought you were talking to a korok.” He growled again.

She poked him in the forehead. “Well, maybe if you didn’t terrify the poor things, I would’ve brought one of you along but since you all decided to set fire to the Lost Woods...”

He slumped under the weight of her stare and seemed to grumble under his breath. "That was an accident."

Wild would’ve paid more attention as Time introduced himself properly, but it was stolen by the way the pretty Sheikah woman was now yelling at the river.

“Come back out here and face me!” Her voice was sweet like a bird song that could listen to for hours.

There was an explosion of water as the long haired version popped out from under the surface.

“Hey. Hey. Hey, Aaliyah~ Guess what I’ve got.”

Aaliyah. Even her name was beautiful.

She crossed her arms and smirked before she paused and pointed down at the possible hero who’s grin only got wider.

“If that’s fish you’re about to throw at me, I will make you eat it raw.”

“Close but no.” And with that, he threw an octorok at her.

Letting out a shriek, there was a flash of steel as she elegantly sliced the creature in two with her sword then gracefully launched herself at the cackling hero, sword left in the ground.

Wild felt the air leave his lungs in a rush.

That was amazing.

“YOU DAMN FUNGUS!” The ragged one tore after him as well, the water becoming a swirl of white foam and splashing.

Tia sighed and moved to pick up Aaliyah’s sword. “Honestly, I’m just impressed he caught one.”

Honestly, Wild was just plain impressed.

___

Tia can be Queen of Hyrule or she can fully corral the trio. She's good but no one's that good.

Wild is just like fully got the rose-tinted glasses on and so does Cal while Sage immediately has their number.

[asking-jude]

Do you want free, fast mental health help? Visit askingjude.org.

anonymous asks:

Hi I’ve been feeling a certain way towards a friend recently and I don’t know what to do. I have keep having a feeling of insincerity and resentment from them. It makes me mad it makes me feel like like a second thought to them and I’m only relevant to them if I’m in front of them at that second. It makes me feel lesser than because they treat their other friends with more attention and attentiveness. I don’t wanna have to chase them down because why should I. It feels like they don’t think most of the time and I have to fill in the blanks for them it’s kinda of annoying I don’t wanna have to think for someone who entering adulthood. I feel like this isn’t fair to me because I would usually think of them of consider them but I don’t receive the same and I’m questioning if this friendship is genuinely worth my time anymore.

asking-jude responds:

Hey love,

I am so sorry to hear you are going through this difficult situation and thank you for reaching out to Asking Jude!

I would first recommend sharing how you feel, if comfortable, with your friend. Although it may be uncomfortable, your friend might be unaware of how they are making you feel, so communicating your emotions may help with the situation.

Here is an article that discusses how to effectively discuss your feelings with others: https://www.psychcompany.com/2019/productively-communicating-your-feelings/. Having an open and honest discussion is a great first step in explaining your needs in the friendship and finding a solution to any tensions between you two.

This article provides some more tips on resolving friendship conflicts, compromise, and good communication tactics: https://socialskillscenter.com/ways-to-resolve-conflict-with-a-friend/#:~:text=Open%20and%20Honest%20Communication%3A%20Communication,can%20escalate%20the%20conflict%20further.

If you don’t feel comfortable talking with your friend, having someone trusted you can talk to can help you sort out the situation and better grasp how to approach resolving it. This can include a different friend or family member, or a therapist is another great option where you can also discuss any other conflicts or things you may want to share. Here is a link for a resource to find therapists near you: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists.

Another option is to express yourself privately which can be done through journaling. Journaling helps with anxiety and stress relief as well as a comforting way to avoid suppressing emotions that you want to release. This resource explains more about what journaling is and how it may be helpful for your situation https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentID=4552&ContentTypeID=.

All friendships have ups and downs, so what you’re experiencing is very normal. However, if you feel like your relationship with this person is negatively impacting your mental health or an open discussion doesn’t result in any solutions, it is perfectly okay to express the need to distance yourself from the situation. If there is little reciprocation or a grave lack of support, then it is completely understandable to take some time and space to both reflect on the situation and even potentially give your friend whatever time they may need to better understand how you want to be treated as a friend.

I hope this information was helpful and we are here for you always. So, please don’t hesitate to reach out again, you got this!

Love, Jordan <3

Ask a question here.

[thedoctornumber11]

Tools of the Doctor

The Doctor has many tools at his disposal that he uses regularly.

The TARDIS: 

Links for more information: Link 1 Link 2 Link 3 Link 4

The TARDIS is the Doctor’s space ship and time machine.  It can travel anywhere in time and space and it’s bigger on the inside.  The Doctor’s TARDIS specifically is a Type 40 which is generally considered to be one of the older models.  Most TARDISes have a chameleon circuit, which allows the TARDIS to figure out what it’s surroundings are and automatically blend in, disguising itself as something that might make sense in that time or place.  The Doctor’s TARDIS’s chameleon circuit is broken however, having broke in 1960’s London.  Therefore it’s forever stuck as a blue police box.

The Sonic Screwdriver:

Links for more information: Link 1 Link 2

The sonic screwdriver, also called a sonic probe or simply the sonic, was a highly versatile tool used by the Doctor. He modified and ostensibly upgraded it over the years, giving it an increasing number of applications. Early versions were used mainly for the picking of locks and for projecting sound so as to, for example, detonate objects and fry circuitry. By the time of the Ninth Doctor, the sonic was able to also be used as a sophisticated scanning device, with medical applications. Subsequent incarnations gave it even wider functionality, such as the ability to hack into computers, provide geolocation and actively defend against some types of assault weapons by frying their internal mechanics and causing the weapons to burst into flames and spark from the inside. The tool seemed to have electromagnetic properties and abilities, as it could be used to electrify the nervous system, and could create powerful frequencies and signals, as well as use sound to carry out its functions, even to the point where three of its latest incarnations where able to create a sonic force blast powerful enough to repel and destroy a Dalek while working together, as well as shoot green sonic energy waves to briefly incapacitate or stun a target.

The Psychic Paper:

Links for more information: Link 1 Link 2

Psychic paper was a blank, white card that had special properties. When shown to a person, it could usually induce them to see whatever the user wished them to see printed on it. However, it proved useless on geniuses such as William Shakespeare or people with feeble imaginations, such as Fenton.  It was often used by the Doctor in his later incarnations. It served as a “get out of jail free card”, allowing the Doctor to avoid many setbacks.

If you have questions about any of the Doctor’s other tools, you can probably find it at this link here.

[bemused-geek-nz]

Modern high- or medium-density housing often seems to come without parking space, something to do with the fact that the architects and politicians behind them have no idea how essential the car still is.

Should I suddenly become a wizard, I know what to specialise in: Garage Doors of Holding.

These items look like regular "tilt-a-door" style garage doors, but are fitted to a runed surround bolted to an exterior wall. When used, the door opens onto a blank space large enough to fit a single normal motor vehicle.

While I can make larger double, triple, or even larger spaces, the cost in magicka, materials, and post-enchantment medical bills increases exponentially, partly due to the fact that the hammerspace beyond the portal ends up larger due to the need for turning circles etc.

Additionally, the larger a garage hammerspace is made, the more likely break-ins are. No, not by mortals. Contact information for the appropriate authorities is provided with your purchase.

And yes, a Garden Shed of Residence is possible. However, the same issues still exist, and other than the front door, no windows or other apertures exist. And if they do, evacuate.

I wish wizards were real so bad imagine coming out of a wal mart and seeing some guy with long robes and a big hat in the parking lot surrounded by wacky particle effects screaming some shit like "By the moon and the starlight, by the shield and the sword, I summon to me, my Honda Accord!" And then just getting into his car and driving off

[swimmingmentalitypenguin]

Club Game Wikipedia

The Very Popular Parlor Game Of All Time, Rated They additionally supply a tiny choice of games for home entertainment. Our high-backed booths use the excellent mix of listening to the crowd and enjoying some privacy for your game. Maintain Rose City Weird is a neighborhood rule, as Rose city stands alone, providing distinct preferences, views and experiences you will not find everywhere else. Do as locals do and embrace the city's eccentric vibes. Charades is a living-room video game that never obtains old. Discover Gaming Occasions And Galleries Around Rose City One more bar video game that transforms a physically-strenuous task right into one you can do stalling with a beer in your hand (or at least close-by). Shuffleboard isn't simply for cruise ships and retirement home anymore. The tabletop variety is the perfect method to include some fun and competition to your business without occupying a great deal of room. The video games are simple to find out however hard to master, so customers will be encouraged to return evening after evening to down a couple of beers and hone their abilities with the hint. Located in the heart of Schöneberg, Cafe Manstein4 is the dreamland to take pleasure in a delicious cake amidst attractive art. If underhand rolling isn't your thing, try the overhand enjoyable of Pop-A-Shot and see the number of baskets you can make before time runs out. And it's reasonably affordable and very easy to mount so all you need is a little blank wall space, and you're good to go. Switch on your light to require service, otherwise we provide you space to play. There are different side road with spots and a car park deck throughout 3rd St. just southern of us. For a quotation, please send the occasion query kind or e-mail with details on number of individuals, day, time and meal choices. The Library Fee Bay Boys Brewing (Tracy, California) gives you access to play as many video games as you want and you're also welcome to remain as long as you want.

Just how to run a video game evening at a bar?

See to it you''re the centre of communication. Have all beverages in the kitchen and offer them. Ideally give them. Supply the food. Find out the guidelines of a game meticulously and run it by telling individuals when it''s their turn, what to do and who''s right in a dispute.

They supply a wide range of board games, making them the excellent selection for your board game journeys in Berlin. Rose city is a city of makers, doers and, of course, gamers. Take your buying experience to the next degree at these shops and bars, which boast open invites to collect and video game in-house. From informal open-play hours to affordable events, chances to discover brand-new games (and pals) are plentiful. This timeless competitors between 4 individuals is a fantastic addition to any kind of listing of bar video games. Work in a method to include adult beverages, and you've obtained a champion. Join our mailing list for news and enjoyable statements.Various video gaming occasions occur nearly every evening.Wish to tackle an extra complicated game in the convenience of your very own home?If you want, list a lot of triggers beforehand and toss them right into a hat or dish for individuals t

[valeriamorena-art]

[ARTIST REVIEW] KEITH HARING'S "UNFINISHED PAINTING"

Seeing Keith Haring's Unfinished Painting always gets to me. The significance and purpose of this piece and to think of all the art he would have been able to create if he had more life to live is heart wrenching. He wrote the year he was diagnosed with AIDS: "Amazing how many things one can produce if you live long enough. I mean, I've barely created ten years of serious work. Imagine 50 years.… I would love to live to be 50 years old.". Even when having a little bit of information of the context of the creation of this piece, it speaks volumes to how inappropriate it is to complete this work with the use of AI. The painting was purposefully left unfinished to represent the fact that his life would be cut short due to AIDS. The fact that the creation of this piece was based in representing the effect of the AIDS pandemic in the gay community and culture, and someone decided to "complete" an already completed piece with a soul-less AI platform, ignoring the late artists intentions, plagiarising his style, and disrespecting the context in which this piece was created along with all of those who suffered and are represented through a work like this. 

Artificial intelligence is trained with existing information and produces a result that "imitates" the learnings. The concept that Haring intended with this artwork was to leave it incomplete purposefully, but this is a complete piece in an of itself, since through the blank spaces within the canvas and the feeling that it still needs to be filled, the deaths of the AIDS pandemic are represented and the way that these lives, including the artist's were cut short. Still being alive, he still knew all the things he would miss and all the work he would still have left to produce and communicate because he will not live long enough to do so. "Completing" this piece with artificial intelligence not only negates the significance of the appearance of the piece being incomplete, but also uses the style of an existing artist that had a trajectory to develop and is loaded with their own essence and AI cheapens that process out. In the sense that ignores the process and produces something empty and devoid of meaning, context, and soul. 

When working with artificial intelligence, which is something inevitable considering the rapid advance and incorporation of these technologies in our daily lives, it has to be taken or considered as a tool, rather than the machine of a final creation. These technologies are trained with existing work from artists that have worked very hard to develop their style and trajectory and mimics it without crediting the sources or providing a monetary compensation for the usage of the images and content that were used to train the program. I think transparency is key to truly transform AI into a tool rather than the originator of empty ideas and the producer of poorly crafted work that is meaningless. By labeling AI work, we are able to differentiate the source of these images and conserve the hard work and craft of the artists actually producing work from their own context and experiences, rather than from machine learning from other's works. 

The implications of creating work such as this, are beyond words. The painting was left  unfinished to symbolize the tragic loss of the artist's life to HIV, the  issue isn’t just that AI struggles to replicate the artist’s style, but the fundamentally disconnected creation of work that does not have any substance. AI will never be able to represent the tragedy of the unlived potential of the artist, will never be able to communicate the suffering and more importantly, will never be able to come up with this concept. This situation and this creation are harmful, unoriginal and negates the role of the artist and their trajectory. The advancement of artificial intelligence is inevitable, but the ethics and the creation of actual cultural impacting work such as this will never come from the sole usage of this technology. Personally, since this was a tweet, I really hope it is just an awful taste satire and that someone was not serious about it when posting it. 

[jamesvince9898]

Unlocking Creativity and Connection: The Benefits of Art Jamming for Team Building and Birthday Parties

Introduction: Art jamming has gained immense popularity as a unique, creative outlet for both individuals and groups. With its roots in free-form art expression, it offers a refreshing, unstructured approach to creativity, enabling participants to tap into their inner artist. This innovative concept has now evolved into a go-to activity for team building and birthday parties, offering an enriching and memorable experience. Whether you’re organizing a corporate event to foster team cohesion or planning a fun birthday celebration, art jamming provides an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.

What is Art Jamming? Art jamming involves a group of people coming together to create art, typically in a relaxed and informal setting. The essence of art jamming lies in its non-judgmental atmosphere, where participants can express themselves freely without the pressure of producing perfect artwork. There’s no need to be an expert or even have prior experience; the focus is on the joy of creation and collaboration. Each participant is provided with a blank canvas, paints, brushes, and other materials, and they are encouraged to let their imagination flow.

The beauty of art jamming is that it breaks down barriers and facilitates open communication. It fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants as they engage in a shared creative experience. In the context of team building or birthday parties, this results in stronger bonds and deeper connections, making it an ideal activity for various occasions.

Art Jamming for Team Building: Fostering Creativity and Collaboration In today’s fast-paced work environment, building and maintaining strong team dynamics is more crucial than ever. Art jamming has emerged as a powerful tool for team building, offering a break from the traditional problem-solving exercises and trust falls. Instead, it allows teams to collaborate in an entirely different way, emphasizing creativity and communication.

Enhanced Communication: During an art jamming session, team members are encouraged to share ideas, collaborate on a collective artwork, or even create their individual pieces while discussing and engaging with each other. This open dialogue helps to break down hierarchical structures that often exist in the workplace, allowing team members to connect on a more personal level.

Unleashing Creativity: Art jamming taps into the creative potential of each participant, encouraging them to think outside the box. When team members engage in creative activities together, it fosters innovative thinking that can carry over into their professional roles. This is especially useful for teams in fields that require fresh perspectives and solutions.

Stress Relief and Bonding: Art jamming provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment, making it an excellent way to relieve stress. Employees often feel the pressure of deadlines, targets, and performance metrics, which can affect their well-being. A fun, pressure-free art jamming session allows employees to unwind and bond with their colleagues in a non-work setting.

Building Trust and Understanding: Team building through art jamming encourages participants to trust one another as they create something unique together. Whether they’re collaborating on a single large canvas or working on individual pieces in the same space, the process fosters a sense of trust, which is essential for a cohesive team. Moreover, it offers an opportunity for team members to gain insight into each other’s personalities and creative strengths.

Long-lasting Impact: The positive effects of art jamming extend beyond the session. Teams often walk away with a sense of accomplishment, having created something beautiful together. This shared experience contributes to stronger team relationships, and the artwork itself serves as a tangible reminder of their collaboration, which can be displayed in the workplace as a symbol of their collective effort.

Art Jamming for Birthday Parties: A Creative Celebration Birthday parties have evolved from simple gatherings into memorable experiences that friends and family can cherish for years. Art jamming is the perfect activity for adding a creative flair to any birthday celebration, offering something unique for guests of all ages.

Interactive Fun for All Ages: Art jamming is suitable for people of all ages and artistic abilities, making it an excellent choice for birthday parties. Whether it’s a children’s birthday party filled with imaginative drawings or an adult gathering where guests explore their artistic side, art jamming offers an interactive experience that engages everyone. The flexibility of this activity means that each person can work at their own pace and comfort level, ensuring that all participants have a good time.

Personalized Artwork: One of the best things about art jamming at birthday parties is the opportunity to create personalized artworks. Guests can take home their creations as a meaningful keepsake, making the event even more special. From hand-painted canvases to abstract designs, these pieces serve as a lasting memory of the celebration.

A Unique Experience: In a world where typical birthday parties often involve predictable activities, art jamming stands out as something new and different. It offers a way to celebrate creativity, where guests can express themselves and bond over their shared artistic endeavors. The sense of accomplishment when finishing a piece of art brings a rewarding feeling that makes the birthday celebration unforgettable.

Inclusive Atmosphere: Not everyone is comfortable with more physically demanding activities like sports or dancing, but art jamming offers a peaceful, inclusive option. It encourages participation without being overly competitive or strenuous, making it ideal for guests with varying preferences and energy levels.

Creating Lasting Memories: At the end of an art jamming birthday party, guests leave with more than just memories—they take home their artworks, serving as tangible souvenirs from the event. These paintings can be displayed as reminders of a wonderful day spent celebrating and creating together, making the experience truly memorable.

Why Choose Mochiart Art Jamming? At Mochiart Art Jamming, we take pride in offering a warm, inviting space where creativity can thrive. Our sessions are designed to cater to a wide range of occasions, from corporate team building events to intimate birthday celebrations. We provide all the materials and guidance necessary, ensuring that even first-time artists feel comfortable and confident. Whether you’re looking to foster team spirit or create lasting memories at a birthday party, our art jamming sessions are tailored to meet your needs.

Expert Facilitators: Our experienced facilitators are skilled at guiding participants through the creative process while keeping the atmosphere light and enjoyable. They encourage everyone to express themselves freely, offering tips and techniques when needed.

Customizable Experiences: We understand that every event is unique, which is why we offer customizable art jamming packages. Whether you’re planning a large corporate event or an intimate birthday party, we work with you to tailor the experience to suit your preferences.

Quality Materials Provided: At Mochiart Art Jamming, we provide high-quality art materials, including canvases, brushes, and a wide variety of paints. You don’t need to worry about bringing anything except your enthusiasm and creativity.

Beautiful Studio Environment: Our spacious, well-lit studio offers the perfect ambiance for creativity to flourish. It’s a welcoming space where participants can feel relaxed and inspired.

Convenient Location: Located in a prime area, our studio is easily accessible, making it convenient for guests to attend and enjoy their art jamming experience without any hassle.

[randysapps]

Boost Your Income by Integrating AI Tools into Your Marketing Plan

Boost Your Income by Integrating AI Tools into Your Marketing Plan

In the fast-paced world of online marketing, staying ahead of the competition is crucial. Juggling multiple tasks while managing time efficiently sounds like a pipe dream for many marketers. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the marketing landscape, making it possible to achieve more, in less time, and ultimately boost income. This isn’t some far-flung sci-fi concept—AI is here, and it’s transforming how marketers work.

Streamline Your Workflow

Imagine having a virtual assistant that organizes your tasks, schedules posts, and analyzes data all in one go. AI tools like Trello boards augmented with AI can prioritize tasks based on deadlines and project requirements. Tools such as Asana and Monday.com employ AI to provide smart recommendations and automate routine tasks, freeing up valuable time for strategic planning and creative thinking.

Content creation, a core aspect of marketing, can immensely benefit from AI. Platforms like Copy.ai and Jasper use natural language processing to draft everything from blog posts to social media updates. This means less time staring at a blank screen and more time refining strategy and engaging with audiences. I do have a range of AI Apps I use myself in my own Online Marketing business - you can view those at RandysApps - which now has a collection for most requirements.

Enhance Customer Engagement

Engagement is key to retaining customers and keeping them interested in your brand. AI-powered chatbots like Drift and Intercom can handle customer inquiries 24/7, ensuring that no customer feels ignored. These chatbots understand natural language, provide personalized responses, and gather data to make future interactions even smoother.

Beyond chatbots, AI tools can segment your audience and personalize marketing campaigns efficiently. Tools like Mailchimp and HubSpot employ machine learning to analyze customer behaviors and tailor email campaigns that resonate with individual preferences. Personalized marketing doesn't just increase engagement—it translates to higher conversion rates and, consequently, more income.

Optimize Advertising Efforts

Artificial Intelligence takes the guesswork out of advertising. Programmatic advertising platforms use AI algorithms to automatically buy ad space that targets your ideal customer demographics. This means you reach the right audience at the right time with the right message, thereby maximizing your return on investment.

Google Ads and Facebook Ads both incorporate AI to optimize ad placement and budget allocation. With features like automated bidding and performance analysis, you can ensure that every cent spent on advertising is working towards your goals. Enhanced targeting and smart budget allocation mean better ad performance and higher revenue.

Data-Driven Decision Making

The amount of data available to marketers today is staggering, but AI can make sense of this data. Analytical tools like Google Analytics and Tableau use machine learning algorithms to interpret vast datasets, offering insights that would take human analysts much longer to uncover. These insights can inform every aspect of your marketing strategy, from content creation to campaign optimization.

Predictive analytics is another game-changer. Tools like Salesforce Einstein and IBM Watson can forecast customer behaviors based on historical data, allowing you to anticipate trends and adjust your strategies proactively. This forward-thinking approach not only keeps you ahead of the curve but also ensures a steady stream of income.

Improve ROI with AI Automation

The ultimate benefit of AI in marketing is the ability to do more with less. By automating repetitive tasks, providing deep customer insights, and optimizing every aspect of your campaigns, AI tools empower you to make smarter decisions and achieve better results. The time and resources saved can be reinvested into other areas of your business or into refining your marketing efforts further.

Turning to AI tools doesn't mean a loss of human touch in your marketing; instead, it enhances your ability to connect with your audience in meaningful ways. The decisions become smarter, the strategies become sharper, and the results become more tangible.

Embrace the Future Today

The integration of AI tools into marketing strategies is no longer a luxury but a necessity. As competition becomes fiercer, those who leverage AI will find themselves not just surviving but thriving. Embrace AI today, and watch your productivity soar and your income multiply.

---

[mybudgetart01]

Affordable Art: How to Get Cheap Canvas Prints Without Sacrificing Quality

In the realm of home decor, canvas prints have become a popular choice for those looking to add a touch of personal style to their living spaces. Whether you're aiming to display a cherished family photo, a favorite piece of artwork, or a custom design, canvas prints offer a versatile and attractive solution. However, many people shy away from canvas prints due to the perception that they can be costly. Fortunately, there are ways to get high-Cheap Canvas Prints without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can achieve affordable art with canvas prints while maintaining quality.

Understanding Canvas Prints

Canvas prints are images printed onto canvas material and then stretched over a wooden frame. They provide a gallery-quality look without the hefty price tag associated with traditional framed art. The process involves high-resolution printing, which ensures that every detail and color of your image is captured vividly. The canvas texture adds depth and a classic feel to the artwork, enhancing its visual appeal.

Tips for Finding Cheap Canvas Prints

Shop Around Online: The internet is a treasure trove of deals on canvas prints. Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and specialized canvas print shops often have discounts and promotions. Additionally, compare prices across multiple platforms to find the best deal. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or special offers that can significantly lower the cost.

Consider Size and Customization: The size of the canvas print can greatly affect the price. Opting for smaller or standard-sized prints often results in a lower cost. If you’re open to less personalized options, many online stores offer pre-made prints that can be much cheaper than custom designs. Customization options such as framing or special finishes can add to the cost, so weigh these factors when budgeting.

Look for Discount Codes and Coupons: Before making a purchase, search for discount codes or coupons. Many online retailers offer promotions that can provide substantial savings on canvas prints. Sign up for newsletters or follow social media accounts of canvas print companies to stay updated on any upcoming discounts.

DIY Printing: If you have a high-resolution image and access to a good printer, you might consider printing your own canvas. Purchase blank canvases and use a local printing service to transfer your image onto the canvas. This DIY approach can be significantly cheaper, especially for larger prints.

Buy in Bulk: Some retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases. If you’re decorating multiple rooms or buying gifts for family and friends, consider ordering several canvas prints at once. The cost per print may decrease with larger orders, leading to overall savings.

Check Local Stores: While online shopping is convenient, don’t overlook local stores. Art supply stores, home decor shops, and even discount retailers sometimes offer canvas prints at lower prices. Additionally, you can avoid shipping costs and get your prints immediately.

Opt for Standard Designs: Custom canvas prints are wonderful, but standard designs or templates can be significantly cheaper. Many online print shops offer a variety of ready-made designs that are stylish and cost-effective. You might find a design that perfectly matches your decor without the extra expense of a custom piece.

Maintaining Quality on a Budget

While seeking Wall art For Living Room, ensure that the quality is not compromised. Look for reviews and ratings of the print service you choose to gauge the quality of their products. Pay attention to details like print resolution, canvas material, and frame construction. Even on a budget, it’s possible to find high-quality prints if you do your research and make informed choices.

In summary, obtaining affordable canvas prints is entirely achievable with a bit of planning and savvy shopping. By exploring various options, taking advantage of sales, and considering DIY methods, you can enhance your living space with beautiful and budget-friendly art. With these strategies, you can enjoy the elegance of canvas prints without overspending.

[danpalomaorig]

Mistakes to avoid when building your Shopify store! From the LTV SPOT newsletter

As someone who’s been deeply involved in the eCommerce space, I’ve reviewed numerous stores and studied all the in-depth case-studies of LTV Spot’s newsletter. Here are a few common mistakes that many people make when setting up their first, second, or even third store. I’d like to share some of these key takeaways from the newsletter that can help you avoid these pitfalls:

First Mistake: Not Having or Not Filling in Your Policies One of the first steps to building trust is having all your policies in place. Shopify provides templates, but you need to actually fill in these templates correctly. Don’t just click the button and leave the placeholders blank. According to a study by PwC, 84% of consumers say they will not engage with a brand if they do not trust it. Legally, you also need these policies, so it’s not just about trust but compliance too (source: PwC Consumer Insights).

Second Mistake: Blinding Your Target Market with Bright Colors Avoid using overly bright colors that can be off-putting. Stick to a toned-down color palette that’s easy on the eyes. A study by the Institute for Color Research found that people make a subconscious judgment about a product within 90 seconds of initial viewing and that between 62% and 90% of that assessment is based on color alone (source: Institute for Color Research).

Third and Fourth Mistakes: Random Product Selection and Lack of Categories It’s crucial to have cohesive branding and product organization. Throwing random products together and calling it a store just doesn’t work. Each product needs to make sense next to each other and within your brand’s context. Categorizing your products is also vital. If you have more than five products, organize them into logical categories. This not only helps with SEO but also enhances the user experience, preventing potential customers from aimlessly scrolling through your site. Research by Nielsen Norman Group shows that categorization significantly improves user experience and navigation (source: Nielsen Norman Group).

Fifth Mistake: Using Supplier's Titles and Descriptions Using the supplier’s titles and descriptions won’t sell your products. Incorporate at least one keyword in your titles, keep them between 60 to 75 characters, and write product descriptions that are 150 to 300 words long, addressing at least one pain point of your target market. Meta descriptions should be concise, no more than 175 characters. According to HubSpot, personalized and detailed product descriptions can increase conversion rates by up to 20% (source: HubSpot).

Sixth Mistake: Front Page Layout Your homepage design is crucial. Simply plastering products on your front page isn’t effective. You need to provide some information and value between sections to keep your visitors engaged. The idea is to welcome your visitors with value, not just shove products in their face. A study by Stanford University found that 75% of users make judgments about a company’s credibility based on its website design (source: Stanford University).

Final Advice: Know Your Target Market Understanding your target market is crucial for everything from product selection to marketing strategies. According to a survey by Salesforce, 76% of consumers expect companies to understand their needs and expectations (source: Salesforce Research).

Alright, take these insights to heart and avoid these common mistakes – it will benefit you in the long run. And one final piece of advice: make sure you thoroughly understand your target market!

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Enhance Your Storefront: Creative Ideas for Commercial Sign Placement

When it comes to running a successful business, your storefront is the face of your brand. It's the first thing potential customers see, and it plays a crucial role in drawing them inside. One of the most effective ways to enhance your storefront's appeal is through the strategic placement of commercial signs. Well-placed signs can grab attention, convey essential information, and entice customers to explore what your business has to offer.

How Creative Commercial Sign Placement Can Enhance Storefronts Creative sign placement isn't just about sticking a sign above your door and calling it a day. It's about thinking outside the box and using your signs to create an inviting and memorable impression. When done right, creative sign placement can transform your storefront from ordinary to extraordinary. It can highlight your brand's personality, showcase your products or services, and even set the mood for your customers' shopping experience.

Read More About : Boost Your Brand with These 5 Must-Have Commercial Signs in Philadelphia

Ideas for Unique and Eye-Catching Commercial Sign Placement

Window Graphics Window graphics are a fantastic way to utilize otherwise unused space. They can be colorful, informative, and playful, giving passersby a glimpse into what makes your business special.

Hanging Signs Hanging signs, especially those with unique shapes or lighting, can catch the eye from a distance. They add a touch of charm and can be customized to reflect your brand's aesthetic.

Sidewalk Signs Sidewalk signs are perfect for businesses located in areas with high foot traffic. They can feature daily specials, promotions, or fun messages that engage pedestrians.

Interactive Signs Interactive signs, such as those with QR codes or augmented reality features, can provide a modern twist. They encourage customers to engage with your brand in new and exciting ways.

Murals and Wall Art Transform a blank wall into a canvas for your brand. Wall Murals and Wall art not only catch the eye but also make your storefront a local landmark.

Floor signs Take advantage of every surface in and around your storefront by utilizing floor signs. These can be placed on the sidewalk, outside your doors, or even inside the store to direct customers to certain products or sales.

Read More About : How to Select the Perfect Commercial Sign for Your Business

Benefits of Strategically Placing Commercial Signs Strategic sign placement offers numerous benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics:

Increased Visibility: Well-placed signs ensure that your business is visible from different angles and distances, attracting more foot traffic.

Enhanced Brand Recognition: Creative and consistent signage helps build brand recognition, making your business memorable.

Improved Customer Experience: Informative signs guide customers, making their shopping experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Boosted Sales: Eye-catching signs can highlight promotions or bestsellers, encouraging impulse buys and increasing sales.

Competitive Edge: Unique signage sets you apart from competitors, making your business stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Conclusion In the world of retail, the power of a well-placed commercial sign cannot be underestimated. It's an investment that pays off by drawing in customers, enhancing their experience, and ultimately boosting your bottom line. So, take a moment to evaluate your current signage. Is it creative? Is it strategically placed? If not, now is the perfect time to make some changes.

Ready to transform your storefront with eye-catching and strategic signage? Contact us today to discuss your ideas and get started on making your business stand out like never before!

Source : Enhance Your Storefront: Creative Ideas for Commercial Sign Placement