#but that does not make standardized tests more meaningful

[furioushoneymaple]

Here's a small Sonic headcannon list (with Sonadow highlighted in):

Amy: "Oh, it takes a lot for him to cry, but once Sonic starts crying, it's hard for him to stop crying. Yeah, he doesn't do it on purpose, but he bottles up so much inside him. You can always feel it, and it's rare for him to share..." (giving advice to Shadow)

It'd hard for Sonic to cry in front of people/fans/folks too. He will hide his face, run away, bury his face away, he'll do ANYTHING and everything to not be seen. To him, he internalized it so much as an issue/he has high standards for himself that he doesn't even realize. He doesn't want the folks or fans in his life to see him sad. He's always about having a good time, laughing/joking/smirking, and just being a happy guy being the best he can be.

Sonic is very mute in the morning, at least for a few hours (and this really catches Amy and Shadow off guard) ...

Shadow: "you'd think he's loud, hyper, obnoxious, or annoying in the morning, but he's quite calm, gentle, and kind" (he's talking/gossiping to Amy)

The morning is really Sonic's favorite time of day (his chest is the sun after all) and while Sonic is mute he still communicates through sign language. Overall, Sonic is a morning person and is also not a morning person.

Sonic has knowledge (and still learns/but has procrastinated with it) about robotics and machinery. And only when he took Tails under his wing as his big bro is where Tails found his fascination about robotics and machinery too. That's where Tails learned from Sonic about all the cool knowledge, tricks and skills. Every so often Sonic will gladly help test run any of Tails inventions. Sonic believes in him very much.

In a lot of the backgrounds, there's Sonic petting the closest wild life/kitten/pup he sees. He cares a lot about the critters around him, and more times than not when he's on a mission/depending on the levels of danger or urgency the mission is, he will and does get distracted by all the animals around him.

Sonic loves learning, and he has a lot of random facts and knowledge hidden inside his mind. Like when he spends time with Rouge, there was this one time where Sonic saw a few of her gems that she collected (stole) and he lists all the important facts about the gem, the rarity, the design, the history. Just for him to stop half way through, and then going back to what he was doing.

Shadow is the bigger spoon while cuddling. He needs to be able to defend against any dangers even when he's asleep/cuddling. He's always on edge/and when danger is eminent, he's hyper aware/focused/on alert. Like a cat at night. And only when he can relax or when he's not busy/working/fighting, he loves physical affection (not in public though, never in public), he just kind of sucks at giving physical affection back. But, he tries. His form of love that he gives to others is words of affirmation, it's gestures/like chores or tasks he does, and he gives meaningful gifts.

Shadow overall is a great listener, Sonic is a great yapper.

Sonic is a great cook, he has mad cooking skills, and no one knows because he prefers street vendors/homemade/someone else's cooking he supports and loves/enjoys food that he doesn't have make. But Ohhh but he SUCKS at baking. He was determined to cook better food for Tails while they were growing up.

Shadow is also pretty great at making food too. He'd do his best to make snacks/meals with Maria. With whatever food the ARK had, he'd do his best to make the best dishes with the bare minimum. So during the holidays Shadow would do his best to make food for his family too. And it's hard to say which is better at making food between Shadow and Sonic. Shadow does know how to bake though, so there's that, but Sonic really tries to bake. Baking hates him.

There's probably more headcannons in me head somewhere but, enjoy, byeeeee

[monstersdownthepath]

Herald of Gorum: The First Blade

CR 15

Chaotic Neutral Large Outsider

Inner Sea Gods, pg. 288

Whoof. This poor guy is going to have a rough time of it in a few years, won't he? And unfortunately, it has a direct, tangible connection to Gorum, being a chip of sword knocked free by one of the Lord in Iron's clashes with a great god-beast and given life by the energy of the battle. At the time of writing (6/1/2024) we have little idea of what will happen to Gorum's divine servants come the Godsrain, so the looming future of the First Blade is a dark and swirling cloud for it as well as for us.

So we're going to ignore it! And focus on the Now, much like we did for the Hand.

The First Blade is, perhaps, as straightforward as Heralds get. Gorum is a god of war who dislikes diplomacy and underhanded tactics, and as such the First Blade is a warrior with zero ranks in any skill which doesn't directly benefit its ability to initiate or maintain a combat and zero utility or ability to do anything but fight, fight, fight, and make sure everyone else fights, fights, fights as well. Unlike most Heralds whom often have multiple duties, the purpose of the First Blade is exclusively battle, and the book outright states "no accounts exist of the First Blade responding to a summons for a task other than combat;" whether or not it would be willing to train warriors is left unsaid, but it's fully willing to join in whatever fight presents itself... just be wary that disappointing it may see it killing (or at least terrifically maiming) everyone on every side out of disgust or even boredom.

Fittingly enough for one of the most combat-oriented Heralds in existence, getting into a one-on-one with the First Blade typically only ends in one way: a messy, painful death. Let's see how!

First thing's first: That weapon in the art? That's decorative at best, and an insult at worst. The First Blade is the Lord of Battle, proficient with ALL weapons and capable of instantly summoning any mundane weapon made of any material it desires in a single standard action to overcome whatever DR it encounters... but every weapon it could potentially summon is actually weaker than its Bladed Slams which, damage-wise, are usually more than enough to deal with whatever foe has presented itself.

Indeed, if the Blade is wielding an actual weapon against you, it's either because it believes you don't deserve to die by its hand, or because it's testing your mettle. It may even be showing you mercy by using a weapon, for whatever reason Gorum may have decreed. There IS a third option, in which it has determined that using a weapon with a property its slams don't have (such as Reach, Trip, Disarm, or being made of a specific material), or if it would, for the fun of it, like to make four weaker and less accurate attacks rather than two powerful and accurate ones. For the most part, the Blade will be using its two slams to devastate anything that enters its threat radius (10ft space + 10ft reach) with 2d10+16 damage while also tacking on 1d10 bleed. It's also to Great Cleave to slice through an entire squadron of foes at once, lacerating them all at once with its bladed arms so it doesn't lose as much DPS when it focuses a single enemy down.

The Blade's slams also count as magical, chaotic, adamantine weapons for the purposes of piercing DR and hardness, meaning there are few impediments the Blade cannot cleave through just by hitting it enough times. Even the iron and steel its god loves so much are shorn like paper by the Blade's hands, though this Herald DOES have some meaningful connection to iron; it's got Ironsense, letting it detect any iron coming within 60ft of it, which helps it negate ambushes and the sneak attacks of any foes it may face. And speaking of Sneak Attacks, as a hater of all forms of underhanded tactics, the First Blade is immune to poison and has 75% Fortification, meaning critical hits and Sneak Attacks have a 3 in 4 chance of simply not affecting it.

You know what else doesn't affect it? Most magic. See, the First Blade has the same Immunity to Magic as an Iron Automata, meaning that a good 80% of the spells in the game simply cannot affect it in a meaningful way! Electricity damage will slow it, but the far more common Fire damage will heal it, and most attempts to debuff it directly will just not work, assuring a good, clean battle between it and its enemies without magic getting in the wa--

oh you've made a wall surrounding it. Fair enough. It'll just do that right back, having Wall of Iron available to it 3/day to trap its foes in an arena with it (it's got Blade Barrier 1/day for a similar reason!). I say "without magic getting in the way," but the First Blade has a unique array of spell-likes which I have a difficult time envisioning the uses of. Well, I mean, I know how I'd use Chill Metal and Heat Metal (which it can do 3/day each), but it's hard knowing why the First Blade would ever bother using them... except, perhaps, to "gently" discourage unworthy foes of taking up arms against it, to scare off warriors who could not possibly survive an upcoming battle, or... well, as part of one of its crusades to slaughter an entire battlefield which disappointed it.

I'd imagine it uses its 3/day Repel Metal or Stone for a similar reason. Some creatures simply aren't worth battling, and dismissing someone so hard that them and all their compatriots are blasted 60ft backwards is a hell of a way to make that statement. RMoS also gives the First Blade an emergency disengage button on the chance someone manages to pierce its DR 15/Adamantine and Lawful and outpace its Regeneration 5 (suppressed by adamantine weapons only; magical substitutions will not work) enough to finally put it on the back foot.

While Gorum expects his worshipers and even his Herald to battle to the bitter end, he isn't so bloodthirsty that he expects them to die in a fight they would have a chance of winning were they better prepared (unlike his rival Szuriel), so a tactical retreat can be fully justified even by the vicious Herald. RMoS is an extremely powerful tool in that regard, as there is no way to resist the effects aside from dropping all the metal on your body. Amusingly, given that it's almost wholly metal, the First Blade can aim RMoS at itself to blast itself 60ft backwards to relative safety. This is, perhaps fittingly, the only true escape tool the Herald has if it must retreat.

It has no fly speed and no teleportation magic, relying solely on a 30ft movespeed to get it where it needs to go; a humble Create Pit spell takes the Herald out of the fight for several rounds until it clambers back up. Even its Swarm Form, which turns it into four squares of whirling death (4d6 damage at a time) can't fly! It's got no immunity to paralysis, stunning, or sleep, meaning nonmagical means of inflicting those status ailments have a chance of working... provided they can contend with the Blade's +20 Fort save or +12 Reflex save. Its meager +8 Will save seems like a weakness one could easily pounce on, but most effects which could take advantage of it are blocked by its Immunity to Magic, rendering that point moot. Even still, indirect ways of attacking it or containing it which don't rely on it making saving throws still work like a charm.

It can even make its enemies stronger, as it projects a 100ft aura of Rage that gives any creature which willingly accepts the effect--ally OR enemy--the spell's benefits and downsides! It cannot turn this aura off. When the First Blade joins a battle, oftentimes the only way it's walking away is by killing or demoralizing the enemy to the point they can no longer fight; it simply has few other ways to retreat from a battle it, for whatever reason, cannot or does not want to win. It's quite fitting that the First Blade is basically incapable of retreat on its own, but this relies on you being capable of putting it in enough danger that it feels the need to... and, quite simply, there are very few level-appropriate parties that can do that before it's got half of them facedown on the floor and the other half imprisoned in Walls of Iron, waiting their turn.

At the very least, dropping your weapons and surrendering will often get you mercy; Gorum grants mercy to those wise enough to realize when they're outclassed. Just don't even think about picking your weapons back up until the First Blade has fully departed, because going against the sacred rules of war by attacking it after you've surrendered is a sure way to earn its eternal ire against your companions and a swift, messy decapitation for you, personally.

You can read more about it here.

[asherlockstudy]

bit of a weird ask but connected to one you answered earlier about rhett's fear of link coming out.

your metas about wonderhole seem to revolve around the idea that wonderhole is a means of r&l testing the waters for coming out - or at least, trying to indicate to *some parts* of their audience that something's going on. how does this tie in with rhett not wanting link to come out? like is it that he (rhett) is trying to come out, but only in a really cautious and planned out way? which is why he came up with that side of wonderhole (i say 'he' because he's usually the more creative one but idk!!!).

thank you for all your metas btw they're so interesting and you notice so much!! 🫶

Okaaayyyy sorry for the late answer! This is probably 3+ weeks overdue! This is by the way the cynical post I promised a few days ago. These weeks have been horrible and it's still not much better but I finally had the opportunity to complete this. My answer unfortunately is not a pleasant one. This answer will be a little sensitive, even for my standards. Be warned and steer clear if this is not your cup of tea or idk pretend this is my headcanon and I believe none of what I am saying.

For these reasons I will keep my answer under a cut:

Toxicity & misalignment between Rhett and Link (Rhink edition)

First of all, I confirm that this is the general idea behind my metas. However, I have also said in various occasions that Rhett and Link do not seem to be on the same page at all. Based on everything I see, Rhett actually does not want to come out. He only “agrees” to it because he is cornered into an agreement since Link wants it very much. It wasn’t even hard at all to see it in the “who’s the worst husband” GMMore but I have been having thoughts about Link’s marriage… ever since I started watching GMM in 2016 basically. Moreover it seems both a divorce and a coming out are desired in his case. But the problem is that also little of this is half meaningful to him if he does not do it in order to be with Rhett.

Except Rhett does not want to do it. At the same time, Rhett can’t really stop another human being, let alone his best friend and business partner from doing something so pivotal for his wellbeing and his very life. The problem is that these two share a heavy private past and present. If Rhett completely rejects the idea and downright refuses the prospect to ever be part of this and openly be with Link, this can be received as betrayal, rejection and separation from Link and it can cause huge resentment that might ruin their relationship, their friendship and their business. As in, this can literally make them part ways both as friends and as business partners, which would not only be most likely costly to Rhett’s personal happiness but it would also be 100% the doom of their career and income. Additionally, the level of heartbreak and resentment a betrayal or separation between the two would risk producing could cause very unpredictable and volatile responses from Link, as we know he is capable of. Who can guarantee to Rhett that Link won’t out him alongside his own outing out of vengeance? And if this happens, then Rhett will lose everything he would fear he would lose if he came out on his own terms anyway: family, career, money plus in this case he will also lose Link because if they reach that point when Link outs him out of vengeance, I think their relationship is probably beyond a salvation point.

But even if Link breaks up and comes out on his own and somehow retains the level-headedness and magnanimity to not reveal Rhett’s contribution to his sexual awakening, it’s still not a good situation for Rhett or their partnership. First of all, even just Link coming out will be a risk for the stability of their viewership and the fan support. Second, do you think Link could come out on his own in his forties and 99% of their loved ones and fans would not be able to make a guess about what the trigger of this awakening was? Link would be like “oh I was walking down the street and suddenly after 40 years of life I saw this cool bloke and everything changed for me no it has nothing to do with the guy I have attached to my hip since I was six years old and I always act obsessed over I swear we only Plato besties” Yeah...no. Eventually fans will understand but more than anyone else friends and family will also understand. Once this happens, even if Rhett does not follow, he will be subjected to 10 times more scrutiny and suspicion than whatever he was getting so far. Family and friends will wonder how much he knew about his best friend, Link. People who suspected both and were eventually proven right for one half (Link) will become sure they were right about the other half too. For example, Rhett’s father who did not approve much of Rhett’s too tight friendship with Link, he suddenly finds out that indeed Link was in the closet all along, he will only feel vindicated and he will almost certainly be convinced that his own son just hides. They will all think like that because almost all of them were suspecting that for both of them, so when they get confirmation for one part, they will take it for granted that the other half confirmation is pending. Rhett will be scrutinised and monitored by everyone. In the end, it will be like he did come out too. Rhett and Link’s lives and choices are so intertwined that a single coming out will simply be no much difference. What one does also affects the other. Even if Link comes out on his own, Rhett is going to confront pretty much the same problems.

Rhett did not expect all this between them would go that far, he did not expect Link would find the guts to pursue such a huge identity change publicly. Rhett allowed himself to be swept away by the affair, because he rested in his miscalculation that their motives and goals would always align. He thought Link felt and saw things the way he did and that he would compromise for a secret affair forever, easily covered by their very close friendship and committed 24/7 business partnership. It was the perfect hideout, beard if you will, for an affair that nobody would be able to prove since they had always been extremely close anyway.

Except Link has an allergy to lies and he spent the largest part of his life tormenting himself by lying. I suspect the by far biggest reason he lived with lies (including religion and his romantic life) was his fear of losing Rhett as a friend. Furthermore, Rhett was Link’s point of reference for most things so besides lying to him, everyone else and to himself, Link genuinely tried to imitate Rhett - his role model - very hard. He did everything in his means to be a great business partner to him whether it was in religion or entertainment, he tried as best as he could to be “effective” as a straight husband and he struggled super hard to be a proper devout Christian - so to have all the package Rhett wanted. But when Rhett abandoned the faith and after they started the affair Link now had what he wanted the most all this time and he didn’t care nearly as much for anything else or going back to another lifetime of lies. You must have seen how he has developed a pretty fierce hatred for lies and for not being “true to oneself”. Link started wanting it all out, the truth, the ability to live their love.

Link was greatly disillusioned by Rhett’s hesitation to share his aspirations. Rhett probably initially did not want at all but the strain it caused made him comply for all the reasons I mentioned above; the more determined Link becomes, the less Rhett can do but follow.

The only thing Rhett could do to control this out of hand situation was to warn Link that he agrees to it but only if he takes care of how and when exactly it will happen, with the argument that he tries to prevent as much collateral damage as possible. Link agreed even though all this delay torments him because he too knows that acting way too impulsively and independently from what Rhett wants is risking to lose him forever. This is Rhett’s only weapon that Link fears: “You can come out on your own or out me without my will if you want, but just so you know, if this happens it’s over between us”. Link on the other hand is like “If I get convinced you are lying to me and don’t truly intend to do this with me, then it might as well mean we are essentially finished anyway, so I will come forth and do it myself and hell mend us because I have nothing to lose and just so you get the message I will show you again and again I can do it at any moment”. This is how they still keep each other at check. And if you think this is a toxic as hell situation, well you are right. Their relationship is toxic. Given its circumstances, it is statistically near impossible to not be toxic. The unique problem with them and their relationship is that if they stopped it and broke up, with everything that ensued, things would perhaps become even worse for them emotionally and even pragmatically. So they are literally trapped in every single way.

Whoever thinks things slip out of Link unconsciously like so many people believe needs to reconsider. All these small non-coming out coming out jokes and comments he makes are his intentional constant reminder and warning to Rhett, who is equally tormented by it just as Link is from the delays and Rhett’s hot and cold behaviour. If all this is real and if we are being realists, all these and several other aspects I can’t even bring up because this will become a monster post are causing very significant strains to their relationship which they both try to ignore, fight and reconcile over constantly but it is not always that easy. They have big fights. They did recently. They did in spring 2023. And in between, I am sure. And it is usually close to the making of their “coming out” scripted content.

I have said so much already. I will say this too. Link is not in a good place. Despite starting 2023 by saying he is living his best life again and again, this is not reflected anywhere. (Perhaps at the time he believed this because he expected the scripted videos to come would produce much more desirable results.) Link even makes some slightly concerning statements; including how he sleeps to avoid remembering his problems or that he makes plans of going away (that tend to NOT involve his loved ones, not even Rhett) and that waiting for the next plan is what he lives for. Link is heartbroken by Rhett’s hesitations and constant postponements. He can’t help but compare Rhett to himself, who’s ready to drop it all (ALL, even family and career) at a moment’s notice and lands again and again to the conclusion that Rhett does not love him as much as he does or even that he does not truly love him. This hurts him deeply and causes most of the resentment you see bursting out of him against Rhett or in general sometimes and it seems so out of place.

The fact that Link doubts Rhett’s true feelings can be observed several times throughout their content. Around 2017-2019 Link would implore Rhett publicly to open up about his feelings and thoughts, causing discomfort to Rhett. But the most important evidence came with the invaluable EB episodes of spring 2023 which were very charged. At some point in spring 2013, Rhett and Link took different weeks off for vacation and as a result they both did one single-hosted EB each. In Link’s episode, Jenna was asking him questions by the fans. One was “what virtues he values the most”. This is what Link replied:

I think sincerity... I’m sure that’s not the only one. There’s got to be at least three other ones that tie with that but that’s what I am going with today. You know. Don’t give me lip service. Mean it. Want it. Put your heart into it.

This is clearly Link talking about something way more specific than just general sincerity as a trait in people. He visibly has a particular situation in mind, he wants “someone” to mean what they have said to him, to “want it”, to “put their heart into it”. The implication is that Link expects them and wants them to want and put their heart into that certain something as much as he does. Don’t tell me it doesn’t fit… perfectly, right? Link therefore has great doubts about whether Rhett truly wants to set their plan in motion and blames him for doing too much empty lip service to keep him "sedated".

Another time, in a GMM Rhett read in a not so serious context that “For Link passion is the most important thing”. Link replied seriously; “It is. For you it is not” and he looked at Rhett with a complaint on his face. Rhett’s expression fell but he ignored his comment. Here's a link with screenshots.

Link really does not say things randomly anywhere near as much as people think. The following recent example must have been interpreted by most as a typical nonsensical Link segway for a podcast topic, except it was not nonsensical at all. It was the truth, at least in the way Link perceives it, and maybe the truth in general as well:

Link makes the segway to a fan's question personal by claiming Rhett would like to be the third person in Link's relationship with Christy (as in, remain the secret affair). Link himself changes the subject promptly in this case and Rhett does not comment at all, while normally he is amused and inquisitive about Link's nonsensical statements. Notice Rhett's standard by now approach to not react at all and let the situation diffuse... he was talking lately about how good of a diffuser he is.

However, the most significant moment for me, a moment that felt like great vindication, a moment that made me think “Damn how wrong can I be in what I think after this???”. What happened is that I predicted what Link would say in a personality / deeper thought question and then minutes later Link went ahead and said exactly that! They were talking about the power of being invisible in an EB in 2023 again and they were asked what they would use this power for. I immediately thought : “Link wants to be able to go to Rhett while Rhett is not aware of his presence and find out whether Rhett's feelings for him are true and how Rhett truly interacts with Jessie when they are all alone".

And here's what Link said a few moments later and made me lose my mind:

Link: Gain access to. Information. And, um, I decided to invest the limited time I have in - as an invisible - to learn what people think about me. Really. Like, I wanna put myself in positions where people - Rhett: Give me an example. Link: Like, every relationship that I have, I’m talking work relationships, friend relationships… I mean, it was a quick answer but- (…) Link (after some non-significant joke part initiated by Rhett ): I feel like I know what Christy thinks about me. I don’t feel like it would be fair to spy on my wife. Rhett: But I feel like maybe you can predict what all these people say about you without you being there… Link: Yeah… maybe there’s not much to learn and maybe it’s only… maybe I don’t want to learn it.

So Link said. exactly. that. He wants to know what people close to him truly think. He says "work relationships, friend relationships" (Rhett checks both boxes) and only excludes Christy (with a reasoning that is also intriguing). He does not exclude Rhett. Rhett acts clueless but his remark makes me suspect his cluelessness is not 100% genuine. Link ends this by reconsidering his choice, mostly because it made him vulnerable in Rhett's presence, and realises he probably does not want to know the truth after all, which again hints to a specific charged situation that bothers him instead of a generic tactic used on all his acquaintances. Read my original post for a detailed analysis of this moment. It's relevant to what is being discussed here.

Long story short: despite the reassurances he privately gives Link, Rhett is not quite ready to come out and it is obvious to Link, who is heartbroken, drenched in his doubts and fears and trapped indefinitely in a situation he wants to break free from, a situation that leads to the deterioration of his emotional and psychological well-being and to outbursts of aggression or anger that in return further strain his relationship with Rhett.

Rhett takes a lot of it stoically but he also reaches his limits often. He thinks Link wrongs him or misunderstands him more than his behaviour justifies. He is seriously worn out by Link's menacing playing with fire. Sometimes Link's outbursts hurt him and then he responds by also hitting Link to his weak points. He has severe anxiety too, which Link exacerbates.

A juvenile example of how this ongoing chronic toxicity makes them hurt each other is in the latest EB and it might seem insignificant because it's founded on silly banter; as Rhett recounts his experience as a novice archer Link says that maybe he is parts elf. Rhett plays along, saying his ears are pointy anyway. Link quickly reconsiders this odd compliment (elves are aethereal and natural archers), as he often loathes to stroke Rhett's ego (which he considers the big culprit of the problems in their relationship - Link spent much of his life deifying Rhett and Rhett took advantage of that and then took Link too much for granted) so he turned it to the unnecessarily cruel reconsideration that maybe he is parts orc actually. This remark hit Rhett under the belt; an insecurity, his appearance. While obviously Rhett ages like fine wine and Link visibly agrees, it doesn't change the fact that Rhett cares too much about the impression he makes to other people or that for a long time he didn't look his best or, also, that objectively he is the less beautiful half of the duo. It isn't very clear but Rhett is hurt by this and he always is hurt by it when Link makes fun of his appearance - it is honestly such a bad thing to make fun of when you are the public figure companion, let alone most likely the lover. You can tell Rhett is hurt by the way he retaliates in milliseconds: "Well I've told my wife to call me Legolas". So, immediately he snaps back by reminding Link that he is desirable to somebody else and that he has sex with that somebody, thus hitting Link on his own insecurity. They know each other's weaknesses and anxieties and unfortunately they make use of that a lot.

When I say Rhett does not want to come out, it's not that what he feels for Link is a lie, I don't think so. We have several examples of Rhett demonstrating jealousy or neediness for Link, even genuine moments that slip out of him. However, he mostly keeps himself at check and is not very expressive about his feelings to Link, hoping to restrict him a bit in this way. Maybe Rhett is just hyper aware and terrified of all the things that can go wrong. It's also true that apart from the wives, the rest of Rhett's family environment is going to be way less tolerant to such a revelation than Link's family. Rhett fears his parents might cut the communication with him, even disown him, and his brother is a pastor. You might say, who cares, he is an adult, he does not need their approval! Of course he doesn't but we can't just expect from people to not care what will become of their relationships in their family. Also, from all the kids, Locke seems to be the most conservative and has a close relationship with his grandfather. Maybe Locke's reaction is what Rhett fears the most, let alone their relationship was never very easy to begin with. I think Shepherd is going to be fine. Link's kids, I think Lily is bi herself so she will maybe understand and Lincoln and Lando are mild young people, unlikely to have way too strong reactions. Sue is a sweet understanding woman and Charles would definitely be a problem once but he has mellowed with age. So Rhett feels there's more at stake for him than for Link.

Then it's all the other risks, how the viewers will respond, how many viewers will turn their back to them. This is not just about being anti-LGBT. A lot of viewers - even allies - will feel they were taken in for years or will disapprove of the affair being a secret from everyone for years. Most people watch Rhett and Link to enjoy these two friends and family men do silly and inconsequential stuff, to lay off their everyday worries and burdens. Such a reveal will be a huge nasty shock for many, no matter how pro-LGBTQ+ they are. A fall in viewership or subscriptions will endanger their Mythical corporation. A hundred people are paid by them. It's truly not easy at all, which is why Rhett tortures himself by overcurating their strategy and Link by overbearingly monitoring him.

Link saying how Rhett will hit him in the legs under the desk often to control what he's saying is another Link joke that is totally the truth.

Then again another reason Rhett is hesitating so much more than Link is that - let's be honest - Rhett is sincere when he says he is really attracted to women. Rhett likes women and he enjoys being intimate with his wife. If they are pursuing a fully committed relationship, which I think they do as they both want to commit to the one they love, it is a lot harder for Rhett to make the move of no return because it means giving up on women probably forever. I think in theory Rhett considers himself ready to do it but in actuality it is harder for him because he probably ends up losing more than Link does. More conservative family at stake, sacrificing his love for women. It is just a lot and I don't blame Rhett for having so many thoughts about it. They are edging their 50s, that's the time a person wants safety and stability, not to embark on a huge odyssey of a journey. Plus, maybe Rhett suspects (and he won't be wrong if he does) that this will not prove all that easier for Link when shit hits the fan, it's just that Link is so impulsive and wants to escape his marriage badly enough that he does not consider much all the adversities and everything that might go wrong. Rhett is painfully aware of all the dangers, maybe even to the point of somatizing anxiety. He fears so much that he curates and curates and curates their scripted videos strategy and he finds obstacle to every negative hint to the point that Link thinks he is disingenuous. It's almost certain to me that Rhett wished they could keep being secretly in love forever because they had the ideal cover-up; best friends and business partners. They would remain lovers and friends and partners forever anyway, all while keeping fans and relatives happy as well. Rhett also seems to be worried that Link is getting more unpredictable and a little "difficult" as he ages ; it's cynical but maybe he is also concerned what he gets himself into in the future.

But again I don't think it is that Rhett doesn't love Link enough or that he doesn't wish deep inside he were more carefree and braver too... He's just very scared and stressed and his concerns are logical. And in the end, he still is trying to do it. It’s just that he has to fight and defeat himself in order to achieve it.

[fuckmeyer]

HEY i'm having unhinged carlisle/edward thoughts again and i had to come into your inbox to share them because YOU DID THIS TO ME--

but truly. like. the bond between creator and created. (this may or may not have been inspired by a conversation with su-angelvicioso about yknow. a different ship) the creator recognizes themself in the created, the created knows the creator because they were shaped so fundamentally by them...so any time they're looking at the other person they're seeing themself, but also any time they see themself they're seeing the other...there's no way to define yourself except in the differences and similarities you have to this person who you know more intimately than anyone else in the world, except really your view of them will ALWAYS be distorted by your view of yourself...like!!!!

edward thinks carlisle is perfect because he thinks of himself as a monster. carlisle thinks edward is the best of all of them, the reason to believe vampires have souls, because it's the only way for him NOT to believe he himself is a monster!!! edward hates and fears carlisle for being a standard he can never measure up to, but he loves him because he is that standard, and he keeps forgiving him...but maybe actually the forgiveness just makes him hate carlisle MORE because edward doesn't WANT to be forgiven!!! carlisle thinks of edward as his own redemption, but that means he'll never actually fully see edward and he can't actually forgive him in a meaningful way!!! they're obsessed with each other, but neither one of them can actually express that to the other!!!!!!! holy FUCK they're a MESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(sorry this is not even a question, my brain is just scrambled eggs about them now apparently)

THIS IS IT I LOVE YOU THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME THE SPACE TO TALK ABOUT CARLWARD I SWEAR I AM GOING A LITTLE FERAL OVER THIS SHIP? FORGIVE ME THIS ASK SHOULD HAVE BEEN MORE POIGNANT BUT IM JUST GONNA SAY STUFF OK

THE BOND BETWEEN CREATOR AND CREATED!!!! YES!!!!!!!

the creator recognizes themself in the created, the created knows the creator because they were shaped so fundamentally by them. [...] your view of them will ALWAYS be distorted by your view of yourself

and isn't it just so beautiful when we put Carlisle & Edward's canon relationship in this context! i wrote this in another post but:

Carlisle believes Heaven exists because of Edward.

Heaven is not a place for the damned creatures like vampires, but a place for humanity.

which means!!!! Carlisle has chosen to see his own humanity in his son. for all it entails. its light, its shadows, all the shades of gray in between. and, yes!, the scary thing is, this is the only way Carlisle can believe he himself is not a monster - to see his progeny thrive within Carlisle's philosophy.

but the beautiful thing is he accepts Edward. he loves Edward. always. no matter what. & this is what allows him to participate in society, to take the Hippocratic Oath, to live a life of vegetarianism: Carlisle loves humanity in all its forms, BECAUSE OF AND IN SPITE OF EDWARD.

and Edward!!! Edward is the physical manifestation of Carlisle's beliefs. for better or worse. on the surface, Edward is a vegetarian vampire, med school grad, etc., and who wants to believe in the value of human life. (he doesn't always live up to this in day-to-day interactions obvi.)

on a deeper level, he has grappled with questions re: humanity, especially his place within his preconceived idea of Humanity. he considers himself damned, just as Carlisle does. (perhaps, even, the darkest part of Carlisle doubts the existence of his own soul.) he spends the entire series rebelling against the idea of his soul & his worthiness of love while battling his own monstrous nature.

but unlike Carlisle, Edward has actually gone out and tested these ideas. can i still have a soul if i'm a vampire? can i still be human if i kill bad people? can i still be human if i take away life? can i still be human if i do x, think y, say z?

because Carlisle doesn't necessarily have the space to do what Edward did. not just because of his busy schedule as a doctor, but his coping mechanisms, his compartmentalization required to live this vegetarian life, his religion (/religious trauma?), & his position as a coven leader do not afford him the luxury of testing these ideas himself.

at the end of the day, Carlisle can never do what Edward did. if Carlisle is going to 'save' other vampires, he needs to be (at least outwardly) secure in the notion that he has saved himself. even if he isn't.

Edward can go further, dig deeper, and that allows Carlisle to go further, too.

and in that context, god, how beautiful is it that Carlisle just has this unwavering, unconditional acceptance of Edward? that through the darkness and mistakes, there is something worth loving? that through this acceptance, Edward finds his soul in the end?

like, the breakdown of the relationship is:

to Edward, Carlisle is a god.

to Carlisle, Edward is a man, i.e., a disciple of his teachings.

& in that context, how beautiful is it that, baseline, Carlisle & Edward share this deep, spiritual love for each other that will never be broken? FUCK that hits

[splanana-bitz]

This rant I'm about to go on will probably not even get noticed, but, I genuinely do not care.

I just want to take a solid few minutes to really praise Will Wood and how...intellectual and meaningful his lyrics are. I know that's probably obvious to a lot of other WW fans already, but his music has been causing me actual brainrot and I can't stop putting his albums on repeat, ESPECIALLY The Normal Album, and I can't and won't shut up about it.

(Heads up, this is simply a take of mine on The Normal Album that I've been really wanting to talk about. I am by no means disclosing that what I am about to say is objective and/or true. You may politely correct me or respectfully counter it with your own opinions/thoughts, but kindly remember, this is just me mindlessly blabbering about how much the album means to me, how the little details make up my theory for the album's theme/point, and just me fangirling over the thought he put into his music.)

Alright I'm gonna go out on a limb here and essentially just explain my Normal Album theory I compiled by making the most logical connections and assumptions based off the album's lyrics and certain song's context(s) from the album.

To me, The Normal Album is an ironic, satirical juxtaposition testing "normal" people's reactions to "hush hush" topics of conversation, or things we don't typically think/talk about that aren't considered "normal" at all. Not only that, but also how the little bits and pieces from different songs and lyrics from the album make up said theme, is just so astounding to me. It truly shows that he put a lot of thought into his work and you can tell some of the songs are hitting just as close to home for him as it does with a lot of fans who look really into it.

To further emphasize, notice how the first song of The Normal Album, "Suburbia Overture / Greetings from Mary Bell Township! / (Vampire) Culture / Love Me, Normally," the first name and part(?) of the song is literally starting with "Suburbia?" Suburbia is often known as a neighborhood that appeals as a peaceful, cookie cutter place to live or the collective standard people envision as to what "normal" people should act like or how if you really are "normal," this is how you should live your life; a shiny, happy family, white pickett fences, perfectly cut grass, etc. Suburbia also (stereotypically) expresses resentment anyone that does not fit their standard of "normal," and I think that's Will's entire point, not only expressed in this song in particular, but the entire album. He is testing the waters by presenting this as an exaggeratedly normal album on the surface, but the further you get into it and/or dive into the lyrics, it becomes evident this is not normal at all. Just like how modern, suburbian culture (that he very explicitly expresses that he despises (e.g, "fuck your culture," "culture is not your friend")) presents itself as normal, even though behind closed doors, we know there is most likely something that is not okay, or something going on that contradicts the suburbia's own self-established standard of normal.

Hell, even the album cover is Will wearing "normal" suburbia-esque attire, waving out a window with a smile on his face, presenting as the normal he very much opposes with this album's music. This enhances the theme because of how much its trying to look normal on the cover; only ironically portraying Suburbia as too good to be true even more. And this is only the first of many symbolic details found within the album. With the ironic title, plus this sense of imagery, who wouldn't think it wasn't normal? (but if you know Will Wood and/or look at the titles, then you know damn well this album is far from it.)

By showing us something normal on the cover and starting off the album with a song who's title's first word is "Suburbia," it unveils itself to be ironic yet symbolic, reflecting suburbian attitude and showing how these kinds, and plenty of other people, treat what should be considered important topics (identity, death, morality, mental health, etc.) as things to be swept under the rug because it was not integrated into their "normal" ideals, through its music and words.

For example, to help even further prove my point, just look at some of the lyrics/song titles:

·"It's only culture, and its more afraid of you than you are of it." - That right there, that right there is his entire thesis that sums up his point of the album, along with my theory. Anything different opposing "normal" culture, the same culture grows a fear of it, often times trying to silence it out of fear of losing control of or entirely losing the "normal" haven/standard that has been created and set. Will bringing up the topics he does within the album does this very thing, destroying the "normal" feeling that had been set at the beginning, along with revealing the album's lack of hesitancy to discuss tough topics, the undertones of its true nature, and shining a light on how the album is ironically not normal at all.

·"I/Me/Myself" - A song that plays into the themes of not only identity, but the same themes of normality and conformity by discussing how both cis and trans people have their idea of normal towards labels and how one should act according to theirs and are both capable of projecting it in a toxic manner that tries to push down anything that defies it. Will Wood LITERALLY wrote and explained how this song is talking about his experiences as someone who used to be a genderqueer person, how both people on each side of the gender spectrum tried telling him that he can't do xyz because he's a cis man/genderqueer person (or in general), his frustrations with said standards, and that he only wore his gender identity as something to serve a purpose. Just because your behavior, interests, or whatever, contradicts your birth gender, it does not mean you have to conform to labels on either side, even if its not "normal" to everyone telling you otherwise. This very thing also exemplifies how this aforementioned culture is "not your friend" and that it can and will very much push down its standard of normality down your throat, no matter how good it seems or what side its on.

·"Marsha, Thankk You for the Dialectics, but I Need You to Leave" - Like "I/Me/Myself," this song also presents two (most likely extremist) sides that have their own standard of "normal," but this time, it discusses mental wellness instead. Regarding the fact this song revolves around themes of mental health and the balance of how it should be treated, we are given two (or possibly several more) perspectives on the subject matter that could each be considered normal, depending on the evironment/generation. (E.g., we hear a side throughout the song that seems to oppose professional/medical help in this regard or leans away from heavy reliance on such things (e.g., "Back in my day we didn't need no feel good pills and no psychiatrists, we just drank ourselves to death/bled out in our bath," "A little identity never hurt nobody, but lately you've been focusing too much on yourself," etc). And then, we also hear a side that is also consistent throughout the song, seemingly the polar opposite (e.g., "Better safe than sorry, and we both know the danger," "And a little conformity never hurt nobody, but lately I've been worried that you're losing yourself," etc.) (This one is kinda loosely tied, but I still thought it played into themes similar to I/Me/Myself in terms of normality, sorry if it doesnt make too much sense)

·"Well this disease is defined by its treatment, you people make me sick!" - This bit from Outliars and Hypocrates helps emphasize the album's theme further due to the song itself (theoretically) being about human behavior and this lyric also showing how these "normal" people may treat anything different negatively, creating issues within the person who appears as different and making them think something is wrong with them, potentially forcing the person to conform in order to avoid being ostracized (further creating and pushing the established "normal" expectations). Thus, creating a "disease" that is not at all a disease, and merely just behavior that is only treated as such because it does not fit the metaphorical and literal suburbia's standard or ideals of "normal."

I could go on and on, but I have been typing for way too long at this point (my hands and brain are actually hurting, help- VHKDFJ). There are plenty of other lyrics and songs I want(ed) to integrate in this post, but as I just said, I'm very tired from writing all this, and besides, I think I've made my point/theory clear. Whether I'm correct (partially or fully) or not, this was still fun to talk about, and trust me I have so much more praise for this man and his work and I got plenty of more speculations as to what some of his other songs could mean. Maybe I'll make more posts on it sometime in the future, but who knows?

And again, I cannot stress this enough, please do not harrass me for this and if you do believe otherwise, please reply respectfully. I know some, if not most people are nonchalant at the least about this kinda stuff, but I do NOT wanna deal with any comments or replies I know I could possibly get that'll be going "Erm, Actually-" or getting pissed at me for having an opinion. I am in no way claiming my postulation is definitivelty correct, these are just MY theories and MY thoughts. If you have anything different to say or your own theories about The Normal Album, or just any of WW's music in general, I would love to hear them in a respectful manner and/or your reasons for why you think xyz about the album(s).

I just had to rant about how truly incredible Wood's choice of words and music were for the album. The theme is truly very astounding, but just the pieces in the words and titles that make up the puzzle, is what it makes it even better. It is just so well thought out and amazing to me. Will Wood is one of the most lyrically intlligent, and seemingly passionate artist's that I've ever seen. If you dont like his music or have never even heard of him, at least read more analytical posts like this just so you can get a taste, and/or at the least, appreciate how absolutely profound Will is with his lyrics. My compliments and explainations for his work do not do it justice. It is just something you have to listen to for yourself. His content just cannot be put into a box by words.

[bloodykneestm]

rate your muse's traits 0-10. repost and rate your muse's traits.

compassion. 2/10. very poor, some sympathy is extended in life or death situations, but his priority will always be his own comfort and consumption. bitterness. 8/10. certainly no sweetheart, harrison uses any means necessary to keep everyone at arm's length, even and especially those he holds dear. this isolation has become a festering wound and though it is all at this point self-imposed, he feels deep bitterness toward those who can form and maintain healthy, successful or even simply lengthy bonds. that said, he tries to never allow his bitterness to become a personality trait, burying it beneath disinterest and detachment.

happiness. 2/10. though successful in both his professional and private endeavors, harrison experiences almost no happiness. with no meaningful connections, minimal attachment to material objects or hobbies and a compulsion for never-ending indulgence he is always dissatisfied in some manner or other.

politeness. 6/10. harrison could easily be described as proper, well-mannered in a way consistent with his upper-class and disciplined upbringing, but when amongst peers or opposed by someone he considers lesser ( most everyone ), he can be blunt, cruel and even profane.

pride. 9/10. harrison feels complete conviction in everything he does, certain that he is smart enough and privileged enough to if not always be right than always be told he's right. he feels pride in his work and his persona, to a point. he has a weak spot in his lack of humanity, but even feels some pride about that.

honesty. 4/10. working in finance and sales as he does, harrison feels confident fibbing or bluffing when he knows he can find a way to cover his ass. he is above all a strong manipulator because he keeps a nugget of truth in every lie.

bravery. 8/10. harrison feels little fear, though he experiences some anxiety in the face of direct rejection and regarding his serial killing hobby and cannibalistic lifestyle becoming uncovered.

recklessness. 3/10. while harrison can be impulsive, he aims to keep the big picture in mind at all times, well aware that every move on the board counts, and wanting to win.

ambition. 10/10. harrison is compelled by success, it is more or less what he lives for. he aims for recognition and perfection in everything he does, although he may play it cool, he is cut-throat in the name of these causes.

loyalty. 4/10. aside from a few deep familial bonds ( even these being estranged or strained ), harrison has no loyalty to anyone. cruelty toward those closest to him is standard practice ( as he tests others' loyalty to him ) and he will only ever show false loyalty in the name of strategy. ( save that nugget of truth. )

love. 1/10. even those he loves, he loves in a violent, possessive and sadistic way. his few close connections have been controlled, abused, tortured and killed for wronging him, and those who remain have little left to give to harrison, who himself, has nothing to give but money, sex and violence.

sense of family. 3/10. though he has no active relationship with any of his family members aside from his sister, he feels a deeply ingrained pride in his family's name and the tenets upon which his household was run, including some lingering belief that he can always turn to them regardless of their absence.

attractiveness. 8/10. certainly this is subjective, however, harrison's appearance can be described as nothing short of handsome and his charms, vestments and wit make him all the more attractive, as well as his violent tendencies for those so-inclined.

agility. 7/10. though i would consider him stronger than he is agile, he's certainly quick on his feet.

sex drive. 8/10. very sexually impulsive, bitterness begets aggression bleeds into arousal. sex is one of his many vices and he is never completely satisfied, though sometimes these urges are repressed in favor of a different obsession or become indistinguishable from his violent impulses and actions.

tagged by: @samuhelll (thank you!) / tagging: @polardestiny, @princetorn, @slashaer (josef or wayne), @ahsterism (travis or gerry).

[golmac]

Inform 7 Basics: repeating through

I'm still trying to decide on a theme for a string of posts. For now, we can look at a couple of interesting little things. Important stuff that we've only briefly touched upon. To start, let's come up with an adjective that we can used to characterize some things in the game.

a thing can be spooky or not spooky.

You don't actually need the "not spooky" part; Inform 7 will work that out on its own. But more and more, I'm finding myself trying to be explicit with these one-time declarations.

a thing is usually not spooky.

OK, nothing will be spooky unless we say so, or otherwise make it that way. So if we do this in a test project (see below for ide/snippet):

lab is a room.

there is an apple in lab. there is a hat in lab. there is a blue blanket in lab.

none of those things will be spooky when play begins. Perhaps we could make them spooky after the sun goes down. First, let's disable the "standard report waiting rule" so that we can provide our own text (reminder! you can see what rule is printing what with the debug command RULES):

the standard report waiting rule does nothing when the location is lab.

As the rule suggests, the only exception is our current location, lab. Let's do an initial response, then have a different one repeat. We can do that with a "[one of]... [stopping]" construction.

report waiting: say "[one of]The sun goes down, and everything seems to be a little spooky.[or]Waiting here makes you feel anxious. It's spooky in the dark![stopping]"

That's a nice start, but we haven't really changed anything in the world of the game (if this were a longer, more complex game, we might want to set a value or truth state to "remember" that the sun has gone down). Let's make everything spooky. We'll use a "repeat with X running through Y" construction to consistently apply the "spooky" property to everything in the game. We've glanced at this before, but let's take our time.

repeat with item running through things:

here, "item" is a name of our choosing. as Inform 7 works its way through its internal list of things ("things" as in a kind of object in an Inform story. It builds this list on its own.), "item" is the current thing on Inform's list. We can tell Inform to do anything we might otherwise have it do in a rule. In this case:

now the item is spooky.

Now, we won't often want to act upon every thing in a story. We can use conditions, just as we do in action processing. Let's go with this:

report waiting: say "[one of]The sun goes down, and everything seems to be a little spooky.[or]Waiting here makes you feel anxious. It's spooky in the dark![stopping]"; repeat with item running through things: if item is portable: now item is spooky.

There. We won't make ourselves spooky, or a bit of scenery spooky, just items that can be picked up by the player (this is an example. Inform is very flexible with these rules).

Still, this isn't very meaningful in-game, is it? We could check for "spooky" in our rules. We could do custom responses and so forth. Messing with "printing names" isn't something I do a lot of, but sometimes it makes sense (this is what Inform calls an activity). How about this:

before printing the name of something spooky: say "spooky ".

There. I think that will do. Output:

lab You can see an apple, a hat, and a blue blanket here.

> z The sun goes down, and everything seems to be a little spooky. > l lab You can see a spooky apple, a spooky hat, and a spooky blue blanket here.

It even handles "a" vs "an" correctly. <3 More soon! Here's a little code snippet to look at and even tinker with.

[ausetkmt]

I recently heard a trailer for a radio programme, in which the announcer asked us if we knew that reaching out to others can enhance our health and even help us live longer. He sounded somewhat surprised himself.

Yet I remember writing about the power of social connection way back in the early 1980s, on publication of the latest report from the Framingham Heart Study, a long-term investigation of the heart health of residents of Framingham, Massachusetts. It had revealed that having close relationships was more important for the heart than standard protective factors, such as taking exercise, having a good diet, and not smoking. (The article, in the British edition of Cosmopolitan, was even given the chirpy title, “Love your friends and save your life.”)

Research on Loneliness

This was quite astounding at the time, and supportive findings from other studies followed, such as one that found that men who felt loved by their partners were less likely to suffer heart attacks than those who felt neglected.

Much more has been discovered, of course, in the intervening years, about the power of connection with others and its wider impact on health, protecting against not just heart attacks but also other ills. It is now scientifically accepted that the human brain is a social organ and that we need social connection to survive.1 Put bluntly, loneliness can be a killer.

As the late John Cacioppo, an eminent psychologist in this field, described in his book Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection, not only does loneliness adversely affect the stress system, which enables us to deal with major or chronic stressful circumstances, but it also slows healing and reduces brain power.2

The findings continue to accrue. For instance, Finnish researchers recently showed that those who described themselves as lonely were at higher risk of contracting infections that needed hospital treatment.3

Strikingly, Cacioppo showed how people who are lonely have heightened sensitivity to social threats. In a test in which participants had to name the colour in which positive and negative social and nonsocial words were printed (for instance, "cooperate," "reject," "delicious," and "vomit"), only lonely people were slow to name the colours of socially negative words like "reject."

Fear of Rejection

“The brains of lonely people are on high alert, focused on social connection and social rejection in everything they do, which is why they see evidence for rejection or unkindness, even when its existence is questionable,” John Cacioppo told me in an interview for Human Givens Journal.4 Unfortunately, the fear of being rejected can make us too demanding or too critical of others or too passive—and so we manage to sabotage the very thing we want—genuine, meaningful connection with another person. Alas, the lonelier we are, the lonelier we may get.

I have worked with many university students struggling with loneliness and fearful about reaching out to others. Social anxiety is behind most of it. Just recently, one told me that he couldn’t speak when in a group of students, fearing they would find him boring. It was just after the beginning of his first term, when people were starting to form their friendship groups, and so it was important that he quickly learned how to manage himself better.

I suggested that he needed to recognise what he might be contributing to situations he found awkward, through the way he presented himself in them. Did he appear reluctant to be spoken to? Aloof (through fear)? Did intense concentration make him seem judgmental?

I advised him to ask questions of others. “Be like a journalist,” I told him. “Be genuinely curious. Ask about their interests and listen to the answer, instead of worrying about what they may be thinking of you. If you listen to the answer, you will have your next question, and quite quickly the conversation can start to flow more naturally.”

Understanding Loneliness

Find counselling near me

Having an external focus instead of an internal focus is, of course, the key. He tried this and reported back that he had felt comfortable in, and accepted by, the group. (Not surprising, as he alone had been excluding himself.) The experience gave him encouragement and confidence.

I also suggest lonely or shy people try out activities where the focus is not on meeting people but involves being with others in a natural way—such as through joining a park litter-picking group, acting as a tour guide, signing up for rambles, taking someone’s dog for a walk in the park—that can lead to a lot of chat, all unthreateningly dog-focused—and so forth. Oiling the wheels of social communication makes connection easier.

So, as the radio programme proclaimed, reaching out to others can indeed enhance our health and well-being—and maybe it does need saying over and over again.

[thecollegecoaches]

Maximizing College Success: The Value of Student Meetings with College Coaches

It is arguably the most transformative stage in the lives of students; full of aspiration, opportunity, and often with a good degree of uncertainty. The process towards college is bound to be quite smooth and more meaningful with engagement from college coaches, especially when achieved through student- meeting sessions.

These meetings are not just about planning college applications but about understanding the unique strengths, goals, and aspirations of each student. This blog will delve into the importance of introductory meetings with college coaches, specifically highlighting how they celebrate student achievements and set the stage for success.

What Are Students Meetings with College Coaches?

A student meets is a consultative session in which students and families meet experienced college coaches to better understand the scope of their collegiate and career paths. The students meeting mostly takes the format of an introduction or a 'free' one-time session used as a base for the designing of the route to the prospective college for that student.

Key features of such meetings include the following:

Getting to Know the Student A coach takes his or her time to know a student, including their interests, passions, and achievements. The introduction student phase forms the foundation for a customized college admissions strategy.

Review of Student Achievements Coaches evaluate the student's academic record, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements to look for strengths that could be used as selling points in college applications.

Goal Setting In a collaborative process of open discussion, students and their families share goals, such as preferred colleges, career aspirations, and scholarship needs.

Why Are Students Meetings Important?

The college admissions process is highly competitive and nuanced. A students meeting with a college coach offers several benefits:

Personalized Guidance Every student is unique, and their college application should reflect that. Coaches use these meetings to tailor their advice to the student’s individual strengths and aspirations.

Strategic Planning Coaches provide a clear roadmap, from selecting colleges to crafting essays and preparing for interviews, ensuring no step is overlooked.

Building Confidence Recognizing and celebrating student accomplishments during these meetings boosts confidence and motivation, preparing students for the challenges ahead.

What Does Happen in an Introduction Student Meeting?

An introduction student meeting is usually the first contact that a college coach has with the student. This meeting is meant to create a rapport, gather information, and set expectations for the admissions process.

Main Elements of an Introduction Student Meeting

Getting to Know the Student Coaches will ask questions concerning the student's academic background, extracurricular activities, and personal interests. This gives an insight into what makes the student unique.

Achievements Discussion In this session, celebrating the accomplishments of students is very important. Coaches can identify some achievements that will give a boost to the student's college applications.

Goal Setting The student and their family discuss their objectives, including preferred colleges, potential majors, and scholarship requirements. 4. Exploring Resources Coaches introduce students to resources and tools that can aid in their college preparation, such as essay workshops, test prep materials, and scholarship databases.

Highlighting Student Accomplishments

One of the most impactful aspects of a students meeting is the emphasis on student accomplishments. These achievements serve as the backbone of a strong college application and are critical in setting students apart in a competitive admissions landscape.

Types of Accomplishments That Matter:

Academic Achievements High grades, advanced coursework, and standardized test scores demonstrate a student’s intellectual capabilities.

Extracurricular Activities Leadership roles, community service, and participation in clubs or sports reflect well-roundedness and commitment.

Personal Projects Unique endeavors, such as starting a small business, conducting research, or creating art, showcase initiative and creativity.

How Coaches Highlight These Accomplishments:

Application Strategy Coaches help students strategically incorporate their accomplishments into essays, resumes, and interviews.

Essay Development Coaches guide students in writing compelling essays that highlight their achievements and personal growth.

Preparing for a Students Meeting

To make the most of a students meeting, it’s important to come prepared. Here are some tips for students and families:

Compile Achievements Create a list of academic and extracurricular accomplishments to share during the meeting.

Set Goals Be clear about what you hope to achieve, whether it’s gaining admission to a specific college, securing scholarships, or exploring career paths.

Ask Questions Prepare questions about the admissions process, timelines, and how the coach can support your goals.

Success Stories: The Impact of Students Meetings

Sarah’s Journey to Her Dream College Sarah, a high school senior, scheduled an introduction student meeting with a college coach. Through this session, the coach identified her leadership roles in the school’s debate team and her volunteer work at a local shelter as standout achievements. Together, they crafted a compelling application that earned Sarah admission to her top-choice college.

Michael’s Scholarship Success Michael, a talented musician, worked with a coach who emphasized his musical accomplishments and community performances in his applications. During their students meeting, they also explored scholarship opportunities, ultimately securing a full-tuition award.

The College Coaches: Your Partner in Success

At The College Coaches, we understand the transformative power of a well-structured students meeting. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping students achieve their dreams by providing personalized guidance and celebrating their unique strengths.

Why Choose The College Coaches?

Customized Strategies We tailor our approach to each student’s needs, ensuring their individuality shines through in their applications.

Focus on Student Accomplishments We help students identify and showcase their achievements in a way that resonates with admissions committees.

Comprehensive Support From the introduction student meeting to application submission, we are with you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts A student meeting is much more than just a conversation-it is the first step towards building a brighter future. Student accomplishments are recognized and celebrated, and goals are clear and defined while taking advantage of college coaches' expertise. This enables students to face the admission process with confidence and success.

Book an appointment with your introduction student meeting today with The College Coaches. Begin to make those college dreams come true. Everything is possible with the right guidance and support.

[alicevgcna]

Open Your Healthcare Career: How Long Does a CNA Course Really Take?

Unlock Your Healthcare Career: How Long ⁣Does‍ a‌ CNA Course Really Take?

The demand for certified ​nursing assistants (CNAs) is rapidly​ increasing as ⁤the healthcare industry expands. If you’re considering entering this fulfilling ⁣field, one of your first‌ questions might be: How long ⁢does a CNA course really take? This guide aims to provide​ you with a comprehensive overview of the time commitment involved, factors that ‍influence duration, and valuable⁢ insights to⁢ help you succeed in your CNA career.

the Basics of CNA Training

A Certified Nursing Assistant ⁣(CNA) plays a crucial role in patient care, often being the primary support for⁢ patients in‍ hospitals, long-term care facilities, and​ home health ⁤settings. ⁢CNA courses typically include both classroom training and ⁣hands-on clinical experience, aimed at equipping you ⁢with the skills ‌needed to perform​ essential duties.

Typical Duration of a‌ CNA Course

The duration of a CNA​ program can vary widely depending on several factors, including your‍ chosen institution, delivery method (online vs. in-person), and state regulations.Generally, here’s ⁢what you⁣ can expect:

Short-Term Programs: Typically last‍ between 4 to 12 weeks.

Standard Programs: Most commonly,thes courses last about 6 to 10 weeks.

Extended Programs: Some community colleges offer‍ programs that last up to⁢ a year, frequently enough including additional certifications.

Sample CNA Course Durations

institution​ Type

Duration

Vocational School

4-8 weeks

Community‌ College

8-12 weeks

Online Programs

Flexible (approx. 4-12 weeks)

Long-term Training⁢ (degree programs)

1 year or more

Factors Influencing the Length of CNA Courses

Several factors can affect the‍ time it takes‌ to complete your⁢ CNA ⁤training:

1. ​Course format

Some programs offer flexible ⁢online ⁣courses, while others require in-person⁣ attendance.online‌ courses may allow you⁣ to progress ⁣at your own ⁢pace, potentially shortening⁤ the overall time.

2. State Regulations

Each state has its own regulations governing CNA training and testing. some states might require more clinical hours than others, which ⁣can extend ‍the duration of your ​coursework.

3.Previous Experience

If you ​have prior ⁢healthcare experience or training, some programs might ​allow you to complete the courses in​ a shorter time frame or waive ⁤certain requirements.

Benefits⁢ of Becoming a CNA

Choosing⁢ to become ‌a Certified Nursing Assistant has numerous benefits, including:

Speedy Entry into ⁢Healthcare: ⁤With a short training duration, you‌ can start your career ⁤quickly.

High Demand: The⁣ aging population is increasing the need for CNAs, ensuring job‍ stability.

Growth Opportunities: Gain experience that can lead to further certifications and‌ advancements⁣ in the healthcare field.

Meaningful Work: CNAs often develop close relationships with patients,‍ making ‌a real difference in their lives.

Practical Tips ⁢for Your CNA Journey

If you are ready to ⁢take the plunge into a CNA course, here are some practical tips:

1. Research Your Options

Look for accredited ‌programs ⁢that‍ fulfill state requirements. Check online and community-based ​options‌ that suit your schedule.

2. Understand Financial Aid

Many CNA programs ‍offer financial aid or scholarships. Be‍ sure to inquire‍ about these ‌options to minimize your educational expenses.

3. ‌Prepare for Clinical Training

Hands-on training is​ essential. Prepare⁢ yourself by reviewing basic patient care ​skills ⁢and terms relevant to the healthcare profession.

Real-Life Experiences‌ from CNAs

To provide further insight into the journey of becoming a CNA, here are a few first-hand accounts:

Case ‌Study: Maria’s Journey

Maria, a recent graduate from a vocational school in Florida, completed ⁣her CNA training in just 6 weeks. She‍ appreciated‍ the fast-paced curriculum, which allowed her to jump directly into‍ the workforce. “I felt fully prepared after going through my course. ​It set a solid foundation for my career,” she shared.

Case Study: ​John’s Experience

After completing a community college program ‌that lasted 12 weeks, John⁤ landed a ⁢job in a ​rehabilitation center. He loved the⁣ longer training as it provided him with diverse skills. “Even‌ though it ‍took longer, I felt confident‍ in my abilities, and it paid off with a great job,” he noted.

Conclusion

Choosing to⁣ become a⁣ Certified Nursing Assistant can be ⁢a valuable step in unlocking your⁤ healthcare career. with programs typically ranging from 4 to 12 weeks,​ you can enter‍ this fulfilling profession quickly. Remember that the training is not just about the timeline but also about⁣ your​ passion for⁤ patient care and your commitment to ‍learning.⁢ As⁣ the demand for CNAs continues to ‌rise, your choice⁣ could lead to a⁣ stable ‍and rewarding career.

By understanding the course duration, ⁣the‌ factors affecting it, and what to expect in your training, you’re now better equipped to embark on this journey. Start ‌your CNA journey today, and change lives—one patient at a time!

https://cnaclassesonline.net/open-your-healthcare-career-how-long-does-a-cna-course-really-take/

[phdrescue]

Data Collection Methods: Selecting the Appropriate Method

Data Collection Methods: Selecting the Appropriate Method

Data collection is the core of any research project. It is the raw material that feeds the analysis, interpretation, and informed decision-making process. Selecting the appropriate data collection method is, therefore, crucial to ensure that the insights gained are accurate, reliable, and relevant to the research goals. In broad terms, data collection methods fall into two categories: quantitative and qualitative, each with distinct characteristics and applications.

Quantitative methodologies gather numerical data that can later be statistically analyzed. These methods prove particularly useful for measuring variables, testing hypotheses, and drawing broader generalizations. Surveys are just one of the most popular uses of quantitative tools to assess trends or behaviors across a broad sample of a population. For instance, a multinational company will utilize a customer satisfaction survey about the services it offers different regions. Experiments is one type of quantitative method, which is provided through controlled experiments to test causality for relationships between variables. These methods give structured and objective data to be used in support or refutation of existing theories.

Qualitative methods are focused on exploring the more profound, subtle aspects of human behavior, attitudes, and experience. Interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic studies are techniques through which the "why" behind certain actions or decisions can be uncovered. For example, a focus group organized by a startup might uncover the emotional drivers behind why a customer prefers one product over another. These techniques are particularly useful in exploratory research where context, culture, and individual perspectives play a significant role.

There are various factors determining which method of data collection to choose. Some of these factors are the objectives of the research, the nature of the study, and the resources available. For instance, if one wants to understand how often something happens, then perhaps a quantitative method would be most suitable. On the other hand, if one wishes to explore why or what motivated, then a qualitative approach would be most appropriate. Sometimes researchers combine both quantitative and qualitative methods in the research process to get a deeper understanding of the subject being researched.

Technological advancements have also enabled more efficient and effective data collection methods. Online surveys, mobile applications, and social media analytics have made it easier to collect large volumes of data at a reasonable cost. Google Forms, Qualtrics, interview transcription software, and similar tools have made both qualitative and quantitative research easier and faster.

However, it is also important for researchers to look into the limitations that could have arisen from time, budget, or bias. It is important that the method of collecting data fits the ethical standards of research. One example is when a researcher collects data through interviews, in which creating a safe environment will ensure that participants feel free to respond with honesty and in as much detail as possible.

Conclusion The selection of the method of data collection does not go about choosing in a one-size-fits-all basis. It involves careful evaluation based on the goals of research, the subject matter, and constraints. By making the best selection, researchers ensure that the findings are robust, meaningful, and capable of driving impactful conclusions.

For further research assistance reach out to us on our whatsapp https://wa.me/919424229851/

[pooma-education]

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 - 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: It's not just a method, it's a revolution in education:

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Project-Based Learning (PBL) has emerged as a transformative approach that shifts the focus from traditional rote learning to active, experiential engagement. By integrating real-world challenges into the learning process, PBL cultivates skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, preparing students for the complexities of the 21st century.

At its core, PBL revolves around inquiry-driven projects that require students to explore and solve authentic problems. Unlike conventional methods that prioritize memorization of isolated facts, PBL emphasizes understanding and applying knowledge in meaningful contexts. For instance, students might develop a sustainable energy plan for their school, design an innovative product, or create a multimedia presentation on local history. Such tasks demand not only subject-specific knowledge but also the ability to work in teams, communicate effectively, and think critically—skills that are invaluable in both academic and professional settings.

One of the primary benefits of PBL is its capacity to engage students deeply. Traditional classroom environments often struggle to maintain students’ interest, as lessons can feel disconnected from real life. In contrast, PBL immerses students in hands-on activities that resonate with their interests and aspirations. This sense of relevance fosters intrinsic motivation, making learning a more enjoyable and impactful experience. Furthermore, the collaborative nature of PBL teaches students how to navigate group dynamics, resolve conflicts, and leverage diverse perspectives, mirroring the realities of the modern workplace.

Another significant advantage of PBL is its ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice. By working on tangible projects, students see how their academic knowledge applies to real-world situations. For example, a math lesson might extend beyond equations to involve calculating budgets for a community initiative, while a science project might involve experimenting with renewable energy solutions. This integration of knowledge and application not only enhances comprehension but also empowers students to see themselves as problem-solvers and innovators.

PBL also aligns well with the demands of the digital age. With technology increasingly permeating every aspect of life, PBL encourages the use of digital tools for research, collaboration, and presentation. This not only enhances the quality of projects but also equips students with essential tech skills. Moreover, the iterative nature of PBL, where students continuously refine their work based on feedback, mirrors the adaptive processes required in dynamic industries.

Despite its numerous benefits, PBL does come with challenges, including the need for significant teacher training and adjustments to traditional assessment methods. Teachers must adopt a facilitator role, guiding inquiry and supporting diverse learners. Assessments, too, must go beyond standardized tests to include evaluations of collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.

In conclusion, Project-Based Learning represents a paradigm shift in education, fostering skills that are crucial for success in the modern world. By connecting learning to real-life challenges, PBL not only enhances academic achievement but also prepares students to thrive in a complex, interconnected, and rapidly changing global society. As more educators embrace this innovative approach, PBL has the potential to redefine the future of learning.

(𝙱𝚢. 𝙳𝚛. 𝚁𝚊𝚟𝚒 𝙺𝚞𝚖𝚊𝚛 𝙻 𝙿, 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚄𝙽 𝙴𝚍𝚞𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚒𝚜𝚝)

[ear-worthy]

A Matter Of Degrees Podcast: Is Climate Change Dead in TrumpWorld?

The co-hosts of this excellent podcast -- A Matter Of Degrees -- are not simply climate advocates, they're scientists. So they're not tree huggers, but highly skilled women of science who can take on any climate denier who produces a snowball to prove the earth is not warming to dangerous levels.

In the U.S., only nine percent of people actively dismiss the reality of climate change, and that has more to do with identity and politics than science.

"We’re focused not just on how people think, but also on how they feel, "says the podcast co-hosts, Dr. Leah Stokes and Dr. Katharine Wilkinson. "To take meaningful action on climate change, we need to reckon with our emotions – guilt, fear, anger, whatever they may be. We think it’s most important to work for policy and political progress. Let’s focus on collectively achieving structural change."

Season four has just begun, and the co-hosts tackle the current climate issues surrounding the election and its aftermath.

Episode one of season four was about Project 2025, which has been all over the news lately. But what exactly is this conservative playbook for the Federal government? And what does it mean for climate policy? 

This episode dives into the Heritage Foundation's plan for the next conservative presidential administration. The co-hosts lay out what Project 2025 would mean for the climate movement and how it threatens to unwind all the progress we’ve made. This 900+ page document covers a lot of ground and, as they found out, the devil is in the details. In the episode, the co-hosts walk through the policies that define Project 2025’s vision for a Federal government that’s fundamentally anti-government, anti-science, and anti-equity and justice. We also take a hard look at just exactly how we got here: who wrote Project 2025, who benefits from it, and what we can learn from it.

The co-hosts set up a scenario reminiscent of Orwell's 1984, when, at the book's opening, the protagonist Winston Smith says, "It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen."

In the second episode, the co-hosts craft a climate success story.

On this episode of A Matter of Degrees, we tell the story of how a powerful grassroots movement, ambitious lawmakers, and Governor Tim Walz turned Minnesota into a climate leader. Then, we talk about using the Minnesota blueprint to make change everywhere else.

States also play a huge role in our path to healing the planet. Beyond just cutting pollution within their borders, states implement our big federal climate laws, test new innovative policy ideas, and build momentum for nationwide progress. And the center of gravity for state-level climate action isn’t California, or Washington, or Massachusetts. It’s Minnesota. Over the past few years, Minnesota has done more on climate than perhaps any other state, anchored by a nation-leading clean electricity standard that requires 100% carbon-free power by 2040. 

To tell Minnesota’s success story, the co-hosts spoke to Aimee Witteman, the Vice President of Investment and Network at Rewiring America, Chris Conry, the Managing Director of 100 Percent MN, and Rep. Jamie Long, the Majority Leader of the Minnesota State House of Representatives. 

Who are the co-hosts of A Matter Of Degrees?   Dr. Leah Stokes is a specialist in energy and climate policy, and the author of the award-winning book Short Circuiting Policy, which examines the role of utilities in undermining regulation and promoting climate denial. Trained at M.I.T., Columbia, and the University of Toronto, Leah has published in top scholarly journals and popular media outlets. Named a 2020 Grist 50 Fixer, she regularly provides advice to policymakers at the federal and state levels and has given testimony on clean energy and electrification to the U.S. Congress, as well as states and cities. At the University of California, Santa Barbara, Leah is the Anton Vonk Associate Professor of Environmental Politics. She’s also a senior policy consultant at the advocacy groups Evergreen Action and Rewiring America. Dr. Katharine Wilkinson is an author, strategist, teacher, and one of 15 “women who will save the world,” according to Time magazine. She is co-founder and executive director of The All We Can Save Project, which works to grow climate leadership, and creator of All We Can Save Circles and Climate Wayfinding. Her books on climate include the bestselling anthology All We Can Save, The Drawdown Review, the New York Times bestseller Drawdown, and Between God & Green. Stokes and Wilkinson have just started their third season of A Matter Of Degrees. Check out some of their previous episodes such as season two, episode eight The ‘Win-Win-Win’ Strategy To Retire Coal, and season two, episode four 'Green Jobs...For All?' In a previous interview, Dr. Stokes and Dr. Wilkinson told me, "These are both future and present concerns. The climate crisis is here, and we can prevent it from getting a lot worse. The goal is to recognize where pieces of a clean, livable future exist in the present and fight as hard as we can to let them flourish and grow. This is the work of our lifetimes."

Dr. Stokes and Dr. Wilkinson are not wonky science types who speak in code like they're giving a lecture. Instead, these two academics speak from the heart and target their message toward the "climate curious." Their goal is not to convince those nine percent of climate deniers.

As podcast co-hosts, they're tremendously skilled with a balance and rhythm to their voices and a knack for interviewing guests. Further, their podcast runtime is reasonable, the show itself is carefully produced, the sound clean and crisp, and the tone informative and supportive instead of deprecating and dismissive. I believe it's a positive sign that climate change podcasts have proliferated in the last few years. That means people are taking climate change seriously and want more information.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said that, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” Dr. Leah Stokes and Dr. Katharine Wilkinson dream of a future when we can be environmentally responsible and responsive and make the only world we have habitable and hospitable for generations in the future.

Check out A Matter Of Degrees. Listen before it gets too hot!

[ratan0706]

UI vs. UX Design | Top UI UX Design Company | Guide — Innovate digital Media

What Is UI Design?

UI, short for User Interface, is that aspect of a product’s design which is purely visual. This site deals with the aesthetic appeal and interactive nature of a product, making it look so attractive that users would be able to engage with it directly. From colour schemes and typography to button style and content arrangement animations, UI design ensures that a product looks visually appealing and user-friendly.

Key Elements of UI Design

Visual Design : Colours, typography, images, and everything else that pops into your mind when thinking of branding, basically shaping the visual experience.

Interactive Design: Buttons, toggles, sliders, or any other element which requires a click should be intuitive.

Layout and Structure: About designing content: what matters is arranging it such that it’s logically easy to navigate and follows a smooth user journey.

We at Innovate Digital Media Agency understand how essential it is to have the right UI UX graphic design, and what a user perceives upon entering the website. Our UI UX design firm does work toward designing beautiful interfaces that evoke engagement and build brand identity.

What Is UX Design?

UX (User Experience) design is the process which helps enhance the user experience through improved usability, accessibility, and interaction of a product. In contrast to UI, UX design focuses more on the journey and overall experience of the user while navigating a product.

Key Elements of UX Design

Research and Strategy: Understanding user needs, behaviours, and pain points through surveys, interviews, and data analysis.

Designing UI UX wireframes and prototyping: Establishing a product’s skeletal structure through wireframing, then, use prototyping to test usability

User testing: usability testing through user feedback and real-life

Our UI UX design studio Innovate Digital Media approaches UX from a holistic level for every interaction, making it meaningful, intuitive, and enriching in terms of the overall user journey.

What is the Difference Between UI and UX Design?

1. Focus and Purpose

– Focus on how the product looks and feels: UI design focuses on how the product looks and feels. It’s about developing a visually stunning interface that aligns with the brand identity.

2. Tools and Techniques

– UI designers make use of the creation of highly graphics-based interfaces and UI UX graphic design with the use of tools like Adobe XD, Figma, and Sketch.

– UX designers rely on research-based tools and techniques to create journey maps, user personas, and usability testing.

Innovate Digital Media Agency uses the latest tools and techniques to bring your vision alive. Whether you want UI UX design for a website or an intuitive mobile application, we will bring it to life.

3. Output

– UI design results indicate the final appearance of the product, like buttons, colour schemes, and interactive elements.

– The results of UX design include user flows, UI UX wireframes, and prototypes that will guide the development process.

Why Are Both UI and UX Important?

Where the UI holds the user’s eye and provides him with a beautiful visual experience, the UX design fulfils the needs he has for moving around the interface easily and doing stuff with it efficiently. Together they create one cohesive product that is both beautiful and functional. Both can make the final user frustrated if not put together properly.

Here at Innovate Digital Media Agency, we combine both UI UX design projects in a harmonic manner to result in interfaces that are attractive and experiences kept. Our work, therefore, as a UI UX design company, says all about our keenness and commitment to delivering digital solutions based on the highest standards.

The Role of a UI/UX Design Studio

A UI UX design studio, such as Innovate Digital Media Agency, is vital in the creation of aesthetic and user-friendly products. In the UI UX design process, we look at the whole scope, keeping the client’s vision and business goals in mind.

Approach to UI UX Design

A UI UX design studio, such as Innovate Digital Media Agency, is vital in the creation of aesthetic and user-friendly products. In the UI UX design process, we look at the whole scope, keeping the client’s vision and business goals in mind.

Mobile Optimization Steps:

What Is UI Design?

UI, short for User Interface, is that aspect of a product’s design which is purely visual. This site deals with the aesthetic appeal and interactive nature of a product, making it look so attractive that users would be able to engage with it directly. From colour schemes and typography to button style and content arrangement animations, UI design ensures that a product looks visually appealing and user-friendly.

Key Elements of UI Design

Initial Research: Every project starts with thorough research regarding the target audience and competitive landscape.

Wireframing and Prototyping: We make UI UX wireframes, which define the outline structure of the product, before advancing to a more naturalistic design or prototyping.

Design and Development: Following principles of graphic design in UI/UX Development, we craft an intuitive yet visually appealing interface.

User Testing and Feedback: Through our iterative process, we ensure that the outcome is well-rounded after user feedback.

We at Innovate Digital Media Agency understand how essential it is to have the right UI UX graphic design, and what a user perceives upon entering the website. Our UI UX design firm does work toward designing beautiful interfaces that evoke engagement and build brand identity.

How Innovate Digital Media Agency Can Support

As a top UI UX design company in our class, Innovate Digital Media Agency values the level of competition in the digital domain. Customised services in UI UX design for websites and apps work towards our goal of becoming the go-to site for companies looking to change their online presence. Whether starting with a full-scale website redesign or breaking into new product launches, we bring years of experience in UI UX design projects that will bear innovative and effective solutions.

Our team of experts collaborates with clients very closely to ensure that the client’s vision is met. From developing user-friendly interfaces to crafting journeys that drive conversion, Innovate Digital Media Agency is the go-to partner for comprehensive UI UX designing needs.

Any new design student stepping into the digital product development field should know about UI and UX design. While UI design is about how visual and interactive something is, UX design is about these things being functional, easy to use, and fun to use. All together, they make the backbone of any successful digital product.

At Innovate Digital Media Agency, we take pride in ourselves as one of the leading UI UX design companies that transform ideas into impactful digital experiences. Bring your project to life today with the perfect blend of UI and UX.

[furnitureconcepts]

How Can the Right Mattresses & Covers Improve Your Space's Comfort and Durability?

Quality beds and covers are considered the foundation for creating soft and meaningful sleep spaces, so often underrated. In settings such as healthcare facilities, camps, and homes, these objects are even more important for comfort, hygiene, and durability. At Furniture Concepts, being an industry-leading mattress and cover wholesaler, we find such a necessity to represent a major investment in their well-being as well as the long-term value that your space will be accorded. Here's why selecting the right mattresses and covers from a well-reputed wholesaler is quite a no-brainer, if one wants to retain high standards within any setting.

The Importance of High-Quality Mattresses

A good night's sleep is important for health and productivity. Being a mattress wholesaler, we understand that people require mattresses that can withstand heavy use in camps, dormitories, and healthcare facilities while still offering comfort.

Some critical factors to contemplate when buying a mattress from a wholesaler include:

Comfort: Mattresses should offer the right balance between support and comfort. Selecting accommodations that are too smooth can lead to health problems like back pain. Our range of mattresses, available through our wholesaler services, is designed to support healthy sleep patterns by minimizing pressure points, ensuring users wake up refreshed.

Durability: In shared spaces, durability is paramount. Our mattresses, sourced directly from our wholesaler operations, are crafted from high-quality materials to stand up to frequent usage. Whether it’s for facilities with high visitor turnover or healthcare centers demanding long-term solutions, our mattresses represent an investment that pays for itself over time.

Sanitation & Hygiene: In shared environments, mattresses are often exposed to germs and allergens, which is why choosing antimicrobial and waterproof options makes a significant difference. Our mattresses, available at our wholesaler rates, are easy to clean and maintain, keeping your facility both comfortable and sanitary.

Why Mattress Covers Matter

One would easily focus only on the mattresses, but covers are vital as well. A really good quality mattress cover does much more than protect you from stains; it stops allergens, bed bugs, moisture, and deterioration from coming into contact with your mattress, thus effectively prolonging the lifespan of your mattress.

Key reasons to invest in top-quality mattress covers from a trusted wholesaler include:

Allergen Protection: In healthcare facilities and camps, protecting against allergens is crucial. Dust mites and allergens can quickly become a health hazard. Our mattress covers, available wholesale, provide a strong layer of defense against allergens, offering a healthier sleeping environment.

Waterproofing: Accidents are bound to happen at camps or healthcare where the control is not total. Waterproof mattress cover purchased from a wholesaler helps keep the mattresses stain free, odor free, and dry; hence their service time will be increased. Our covers are easy to clean in order to prevent their replacement.

Pest Control: Bed bugs can be a problem in shared spaces, drawing bad reviews and costly treatment. A bed bug-proof mattress cover adds another layer of protection, and our wholesaler solutions incorporate pest-resistant covers to help secure a peaceful space for every resident.

Durability for High-Traffic Spaces

High-use areas need to have long-lasting mattresses and covers. Replacing the mattresses often is very expensive; therefore, a smart move is to invest in quality products from a trusted wholesaler.

Our wholesaler products are designed to last. Whether it is a facility that welcomes hundreds of visitors or a healthcare setting that sees patients daily, our materials ensure that your mattresses and covers will stand the test of time. In addition, durable covers add years to the life of the mattress, reducing replacement costs and the environmental impact of frequent disposals.

Specialized Solutions for Your Needs

As a wholesaler with expertise in mattresses and covers, we understand that different environments have unique requirements.

Healthcare Settings: Mattresses used in health-care settings have to meet extremely strict standards on hygiene and comfort. We sell medical-grade mattresses designed specifically to provide comfort for the patient while strictly following strict infection control measures. Their waterproof covers also make them relatively easy to maintain and simplify the cleaning process so healthcare providers can keep their beds clean and functional.

Camps & Dormitories: Camps and dormitories require mattresses that can be used regularly; our wholesaler options offer durable mattresses, with strength combined with comfort and long-term service life. Coupled with our water-resistant covers, we ensure your investment is protected.

Residential Facilities: For long-term residential settings, comfort is the top priority. We offer luxurious yet durable options that enable residents to sleep peacefully without worrying about wear or maintenance issues.

Conclusion

We know that at Furniture Concepts, there is a need for good-quality mattresses and covers for comfort, safety, and durability in different rooms. Our wholesaler designs are best for heavy use and therefore best for shared environments like health care facilities, camps, and many more.

If you're ready to find reliable wholesaler solutions that balance comfort and longevity, contact us today. Let's create a space that's just right with the ideal mattresses and covers for your needs!

[truelymarry2]

Finding Your Perfect Life Partner: A Guide to Discovering Lasting Love and Companionship *+91 830~393~0005*

In today's world, finding the right partner can feel like a challenge. With countless profiles on various matrimonial websites and ever-growing expectations, people often wonder how to begin the search. If you're serious about finding a compatible life partner who aligns with your values and aspirations, this guide is here to help. And if you're ready to make the leap, you can reach out at *+91 830~393~0005* for personalized assistance in finding your ideal match.

Why Finding a Life Partner is More Than Just a Choice

When it comes to choosing a life partner, it’s about more than shared hobbies or a checklist of qualities. A life partner brings stability, companionship, and a sense of purpose into your life. This makes the search for the "perfect match" deeply meaningful. We’ll break down the various elements you need to consider when looking for the right person and discuss how to identify that perfect match for lasting happiness.

1. What Does "Perfect Match" Really Mean?

The concept of a "perfect match" isn’t just about ticking boxes. In fact, it’s a mix of chemistry, compatibility, and shared goals that truly make two people a great fit.

A perfect match means finding someone whose personality, values, and lifestyle are compatible with yours. Free matrimony services and exclusive Indian matchmaking sites offer insights and opportunities to connect with people who share your vision and goals, leading to stronger relationships that stand the test of time.

2. How to Start the Search: Setting Realistic Expectations

The journey begins with setting clear and realistic expectations. Often, people fall into the trap of setting very high standards for their partner, only to realize that no one fits the mold exactly. It's important to remain grounded while still aiming for the traits that matter most to you. Here are some useful tips:

Focus on Values: Look for people who share similar values and life goals rather than just appearances.

Stay Open-Minded: Flexibility is key. Sometimes, people may not initially meet all your criteria but prove to be wonderful partners.

Be Clear About Your Priorities: Identify a few non-negotiable traits that are most important to you, such as career goals, family values, or lifestyle preferences.

3. The Role of Matrimonial Websites in Finding Your Match

One of the most efficient ways to find a compatible partner is by using a matrimonial website. Matrimonial sites offer a comprehensive look at various profiles based on preferences, community, and cultural factors. Here’s how you can maximize the potential of these sites:

Filter by Key Traits: Most top matrimony sites allow you to filter profiles based on important criteria such as age, profession, religion, and location.

Explore NRI Profiles: If you’re looking for an international connection, many Indian matchmaking sites specialize in NRI profiles, providing access to potential partners who live abroad.

Use Exclusive Matrimonial Services: For those who seek more personalized matchmaking, exclusive services can provide curated profiles and assist in every step of the search process.

4. Redefining Compatibility: The Foundation of a Successful Match

Compatibility is one of the most important aspects of a long-term relationship. While physical attraction often initiates interest, lasting relationships rely on compatibility, trust, and mutual respect. Here’s what makes two people truly compatible:

Emotional Connection: An emotional bond allows you to understand each other’s feelings and perspectives.

Lifestyle Compatibility: It's essential to ensure that you and your partner can adapt to each other’s lifestyle.

Long-Term Goals: Shared visions and ambitions make it easier to navigate the journey of life together.

5. How to Know if You've Found the Right Partner

Knowing when you’ve found your ideal partner isn’t always easy, but there are telltale signs to look out for. Some questions to consider include:

Are your goals and aspirations aligned?

Do you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and fears?

Is there mutual respect and admiration?

When the answers to these questions are positive, it’s a good indication that you’re on the right track. However, if you're still uncertain, talking to a relationship counselor or a trusted confidante can provide additional clarity.

6. Breaking Down Myths About the "Perfect Match"

There are many myths surrounding the idea of finding a perfect match. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:

"A Perfect Match Must Be Perfect": No one is perfect. Relationships require work, and even the best partnerships face challenges.

"Physical Attraction is Everything": While attraction plays a role, it's not the foundation of a lasting relationship.

"Love at First Sight Means You’ve Found The One": Instant attraction doesn’t always mean compatibility. Take time to get to know the person.

7. How a Matrimonial Site Can Make the Search Easier

Choosing a reliable matrimonial site simplifies the search process significantly. The best matrimonial sites, like ours, provide free matrimony options and advanced features to help you navigate through numerous profiles with ease. Here’s what makes a matrimonial site effective:

User-Friendly Interface: Easy navigation allows users to filter through profiles effortlessly.

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8. Perfect Match vs. Good Match: What’s the Difference?

While a perfect match sounds ideal, it’s important to consider what truly matters. A good match doesn’t necessarily check every box but aligns with your core values. Relationships are about growth and compromise, and sometimes, the "good match" becomes the "perfect match" over time.

5 Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if we’re a good match?A good match is characterized by mutual respect, shared values, and a sense of ease when you’re around each other. You should feel understood and valued.

How do you find a perfect match on a matrimonial website?Start by filtering profiles based on your preferences. Take your time getting to know potential matches through conversation and look for common values.

Is it easy to find a perfect match?While it takes time and effort, a structured approach using a top matrimonial site can make the search easier and more efficient.

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How important are looks in a perfect match?While initial attraction is essential, deeper compatibility is more important for long-term happiness. Look for someone with whom you share a connection and mutual respect.

Conclusion

Finding a life partner is a journey filled with excitement, self-discovery, and growth. With the right approach, you can find someone who truly complements you. Whether you're using free matrimony services, exploring Indian matchmaking sites, or reaching out at *+91 830~393~0005* for assistance, remember that the search for a perfect match is about more than just appearances—it’s about finding someone whose values and aspirations align with yours. Start your journey with confidence, and may you find the partner you’ve been looking for.