December 28, 2008 Sunday

Yesterday I went to Nguzo Saba Park for a candlelighting as part of Kwanzaa. I toured the small but well done park that had prim sculptures of the seven symbols.

Today I had a magic carpet ride tour of the Germania Seagull sim. Pretty good, especially when I got to sunset and the moon rising. There was an airport.

I have continued to aggressively organize my inventory. I have everything from A to Z lined up nicely now. However, for example, there is a LOT of loose stuff, say, in "Clothing" that I will soon turn my attention to.

I did have a lifechanging day or two as I went to a garden in SL that gave a podcast of Eckhart Tolle's book, a couple chapters, "A New Earth". It was just what I needed to hear, for some things in my RL. Met the lady who made the garden and put out the podcast and then the next day went to her class.

These last few weeks and until early January is what they call Winterfaire. I think basically what that means is that you go to Showcase: Hotspots, and then there are a long list of winter places and sims. So I went around to several of those last night. I went to a Cherokee park -- saw a wolf (an avatar) and went into a cave with 2 bears (prims) and walked by deer. There was a horseride there, but I couldn't get it to work. But the forest and lake and mountains were gorgeous in the snow and then with the Native American music going, amazing, spiritual. I will return there again; it will be green. I also went to a place called Greenies which is basically a giant house and my avatar was very, very small in comparision. An interesting eye's view. Other than that there was ice skating, and a place where I went on a sled ride, and a place where I went on a motorboat ride through a jungle-y cave (not Winterfaire, but I happened to see it across the road from the ice skating rink), Santa's workshop, an English horse farm. I also went to the sim with St. George Church (Eastern Orthodox). Again, very lovely trees and mountain, and the music was what I call "cathedral" music, utterly lovely.

I also want to put in a plug for one of my favorite shops, Coconut Ice. Cute, romantic, unique. I also found a place that does superb fantasy and role playing outfits, Suki's Silks. Huge selection.

December 25, 2008 Thursday

Well, I've done several notable things the past few days. I'll write them, but it might be out of order; just whatever I think of.

First of all, right at this exact moment, I am sitting at what is called a "building blitz" at NCI (New Citizens Institute -- help for noobies). It's a building contest. Just going to watch this one, never been to one. The theme is "Peace on Earth". The contest takes 40 minutes, don't know if I'll stay the whole time.

I found a rock climbing wall at a sim one day, but the instructions seemed a little too detailed for me, so I passed. Looked cool, though.

I've been dancing at the Elven Market, starting to meet people. I even talked in character, made a backstory for myself.

I rode a sleigh at a mall.

I did get a review done for Wonderful Evenings, got paid for it (nice), and have started another.

And . . . wo . . . today . . . I went through the Wardrobe into Narnia. Lightpost and everything. I always wanted to do that!!!!!!

I've been created more jewelry sets, too. I'm getting excited to set up a business. I've been doing math to see how much I have to sell to support myself without outer money. We'll see, but that is always going to be my goal. I'll work, too, writing and dancing.

I attended a support group for mental illness, mostly listened, but I think I'll go back, I felt comfortable with the people. (Phoenix Rising).

December 20, 2008 Saturday

This morning I took a look at my creations (jewelry) and how to make a business of them. I did have shops before, I don't have any now, and I want to get another and keep going with that. So I took a snapshot, made a poster, put some bracelets in boxes, and a box in a poster (for sale). There is lots more to do, but I've started on it. In a couple of weeks, I'll rent shop space.

I also met my neighbor below me in the apartment, showed her my place, took a friendship status from her.

Today is a day for touring. So I am in New England Nantucket. I've looked at yachts, an old galley ship. I am at the Folk Art Museum New England now where they have an exhibit of quilts, quite fascinating, in conjunction with the RL Fenimore Museum. There is a replica, but only the exterior, of a real New England schoolhouse that exists. The sim is mermaid friendly. I finally found a poseball that would give me a walking tour, so I did that. There is a theatre and I joined the group, so we'll see what kind of events they'll have. Very interesting, nice sea sounds.

I spent some time at Asagao Memorial Park. Utterly lovely, green, flowers, trees, sound of water. It could be romantic -- there was a cuddle picnic spot -- but the memorial part is for all of those who have lost a loved one from suicide (which, I have). So you can see there is an idea for everything here in SL.

I returned to Nantucket Theater for some live music by Sylar Morrisey.

Then I decided I wanted a Christmas outfit for (DJ) Jack Picket's private party tonight. So shopping took up quite a bit of time. At Christmas Sim and Market, I got a sleigh ride and saw a Yeti. I also found some "windows" that were scripted to snow upon several choices of winter scenes, only 200 L, I had to have one. I'm not sure how many prims, but I hope it will go nicely in my apartment. I finally found a Christmas gown and a Christmas short dress, so we'll see if that gets me through the season . . . or if I need to shop some more, ha ha. I did deny myself a lovely gown and cloak that was 800 L, but I might go back if I really have an event for it.

December 19, 2008 Friday

Best news is that now I am renting again, an apartment. 300 Ls per week for 200 prims, so excellent, I don't need a lot right now. Just a personal space for relaxation, friends, and, most importantly, ha ha, changing clothes. I've been setting out my decoration, but it's kind of hard to decide. It's just one square area, plus a deck. I've decided I'm not going to bedroom or kitchen it. So far I've made just two seating areas, one a rich red and yellow, and the other a rich green. I think I just want to put up my art and nice things, such as I set up my piano, a few candles. I think I went through every single thing in my inventory that could be furnishings, and only a few items made the cut. One morning all I did was rez carpets out, quite a few nice ones. I ended up making my own, a rich red velvet, and did a shade for the window in the same color. Super easy. Found out the cube only stretches so far, though, before you have to add another prim. I may do that, but thus far decided to have it be half the room, and di the green on the other side, as I mentioned. I was going to do a purple/lavender-ish center around some stained glass pieces I have, but I either have lost in my inventory (don't know what it's titled) my central piece I bought, or lost it when I took down the furnishings at my cabin a couple of months ago.

I finally picked up a translator at Simbolic's. It was free. I was motivated because I met a french speaker at one of my sandboxes. And then I could use it in Romanian too, as R*E* came by again yesterday (although he speaks English pretty well). He came just as I was renting, so he saw the (bare) apartment, then we went ice skating in the snowy, starry night at a place near my apartment. Then had hot apple cider. Then I had another art showroom to show him, so we went there. There were even a couple of empty spots maybe for him to put up his art.

This morning I'm dancing at Aloha's. They usually are the place that has the most dancing round the day. And they usually have playing nice club mixes -- ones with melodies, not weird, hard psychedelic stuff. I already have 2 more things to do, and the list will probably grow as the weekend moves on. I'll let you know.

Friday is also roleplaying day. I made another visit to the Hidden Leaf Village. I still cannot figure out how to join the group, so I IMed someone in the group to ask, so we'll see what reply I get. I just wandered around and watched some ninjas having some combat or playing or training or whatever in a big grassy arena.

Now I'm going to dance at a new place, called Footloose. They have one of the best dance ball/ chims as far as how the dances look like when the avatar is grooving, in my opinion.

Then I went to a Christmas part at Poets of Zarahemla. R*E* was with me, then, and we waltzed to big band music. Lovely. Wore a poofy red gown.

I did take a peek around a Norwegian styled village. It was fine, not spectacular. I thought I was going to get to ride a tram, but I couldn't get it to work for me.

I went ahead and bought a Christmas tree and put it in the apartment. Now THAT looks spectacular.

This evening, starting out Christmas dancing at Brother Brigham's, listened the Jamba LosAngeles's kickoff concert for their Peace on Earth tour at Gaslight (their new spot), danced at Runningbears for quite a time, then went to a new place where StevenJaimzProject . . . that is, Steven . . . was playing, The Merry Prankster. I had seen him at Gaslight, I had met him at Blue Tattoo or Shooting Star a few days ago. He is getting himself into the live music route around SL, cool beans. Anyway, he told me where he was playing (guitar, wowie, I'm listening now to Fade to Black) (at The Merry Prankster) and gave me a landmark, and I end up being one of four dancing girls up on rocks (you had to be there). Lovely.

December 16, 2008 Tuesday

Snow, snow, snow! Everywhere! Christmas! I saw Santa and his sleigh and reindeer in the sky at Riverwalk.

Stopped by Scilly and chatted with Marc. Then he and I took his hovercrafts for a spin around the island, sometimes we were eating sand, but it was exhilerating!

I worked on a write up I am trying to do for Wonderful Evenings. It is a beautiful art place. While there, I met a gentleman and we spent some time together. We waltzed and I showed him Riverwalk since he was interested in more art, and then I showed him Al hambra.

I guess I cannot get away from the guy-girl thing in SL even though I wish I could. I feel so assaulted one moment and then totally "in crush" the next, different people/avatars. Some people are so rude and have no boundaries, and think that ALL of SL is their sex place . . . I guess I just have to be tough-skinned and tell people off if they deserve it, unless I want to give up the whole experience with its good parts, which I don't. Other times I have such a lovely time with somebody that is, say, from another country, and we connect, but I realize that I just have to be careful even with that -- it isn't real, it isn't dirty dishes and diapers and rat race . . . oh, well.

December 12, 2008 Thursday

Everyone is having their snow and Christmas stuff out. Including ice skating parties. I'm at one put on by Intimate Moments, and a very nice person gave me 100 L (I'm low on Ls) as a Merry Christmas so I could get ice skates from the vendor, and it's fun to figure out the HUD with its tricks and such.

I also organized some of my Notecards.

I think I will write something again for Wonderful Evenings if I can find the right place. I went one place to check it out, but it was just okay, not as excellent as some places. Not worth sending other people there. Although I did land right next to a Christmas ornament ball twice the size of my avatar. Had to stare and back up to tell what it was I had almost gotten knocked over by!!

December 11, 2008 Thursday

Today I am going to stop by all of my list (landmarks) of Tux & Gown dance places to see if they are still there and just to remember what I love about them.

I love putting on a gown. One of my favorite shops is Sirena, I love all of their clothes and hair, and I put on Sirena's "Sabrina" gown -- white, with black detail. I have a black three-tiered diamon necklace. I look fabulous.

So here is where I've been today: Ballroom in the Clouds, New (Purple) Moon (they have a new spot), Afterhours at Fitzgerald's, Bogarts (of course), Eden Park Ballroom, Frank's Place (also of course), Intimate Moments, La Musique, and others.

I stopped by one of the events of the Human Rights Festival going on this week, listened to some live music and held a vigil candle.

I also stopped by a ninja roleplaying village. I think I had been there before. I wanted to join, but I couldn't even find where to do it -- usually they have those kinds of things prominently displayed. Ah well, next time. In any case, I got a lot of free ninja clothes, and that's the important thing! He he.

December 10, 2008 Wednesday

I did want to note that one thing I did this evening was to tour the Holocaust Museum . . . audio, written, sim, photos . . . I learned about the Holocaust extensively in school as a youth and it has always been a subject dear to my heart, and, yes, something never to forget what it means for every person on the planet.

Oh, yes, I finally took the few minutes to download the latest update. I had procrastinated that. I can tell some of the changes . . . like my own typing chat is in BLUE!!! YAY!! (WHY??). Anyway, lol.

I mentioned that Scilly has gone through some changes. The look is completely different -- more tropical, less English seaside. But my friends are still there. They have a great new club, a really unique idea -- it's underwater! It's called Crystal Blue, and I spent a greater part of my night last night partying there.

December 9, 2008 Tuesday

Life has gone on, RL and SL. And both have had their challenges and rewards.

I can say that I no longer feel new in SL now. On the other hand, I still realize I have only scratched the surface of the possibilities of SL, and I still feel the wonder out there of things to discover and experience.

I will say that I no longer own land or houses. I gave them up. Yep, money. SL is a luxury in my RL budget (gasp!). I'm not worried. I will continue to build up my skills in SL and make enough to do more of what I like. And I'm sure the RL budget will bounce back too. Oh, and since I have the premium account I do get 300 L still every week. It's really not much especially for a party and shopping girl like me, and certainly not enough for a house, but it's still nice.

Runningbears still feels like home even though I had to give up the cabin. In fact, Runningbears is going through some changes too. They had to move their club. So Trident Runningbear is building once again in a new spot. I think it is a lot smaller, but it's cozy, and it's still got the Runningbear spirit. They aren't ready to open the club yet, but I'm in the staff group. So I stopped by the new place earlier today and Trident was hard at work. The floor we all love so well was still there -- it looks like the ocean underfoot with coral and moving fish.

I ran into Melaneigh there. She looked beyond cute in some Christmas-y duds, with blinking green, gold and red lights on her boots, her bikini, her tail, her headress. In fact, I'm not sure if she wasn't wearing only lights! Giggle. But Mel can pull that look off easily, ha ha.

In any case, I'm going to use Runningbears as the place to log off and on each time until I get land again.

I've decided I've lost sight a little of why I joined SL in the first place and what it really meant to me in the beginning, and that is child like joy. So I'm going to take it a little at a time and really get back into the things that mean the most to me in SL (in balance with RL, of course).

So . . . that means . . . . dancing! I'm not a hard core party girl as far as in RL you'll never find me getting drunk or getting laid or coming home at 4 in the morning or any of that really fun stuff. But I do looove dancing and every kind of music there is (in RL) . . . but I don't find opportunities in RL (yet), and there are so many fun places and friends in SL. So I'm going to build up my round of party places again that I once had been visiting, and add more. I actually use my Inventory for this. Under Landmarks, I'll make a folder and call it Dancing, and put all my landmarks for my favorite spots. I've got a folder with dance animations, and I'll make one with dance accessories (like my rave poles!).

Speaking of Inventory, that thing is still a monster, and mostly because of the clothes. So I am still going to plug away at the useless but absolutely necessary task of continuing to organize the inventory. Not least, wearing the clothes is half the fun of the dancing! And I want to know EXACTLY where, say, my leather bustier is . . .

So, as I said I would, I spent the evening going around to some past favorite dance places. A few of the landmarks weren't any good anymore, which I was glad to know and I deleted them. Now there's room for more. I showed up at ALOHAS and Melaney remembered me even from only a few times more than a month ago, so that was gratifying. Makes a gal want to come back. These are all dance places that have the hard music. I'll save the tux and gown places for another night. I decided that a few of the landmarks I had were for dance places too skanky for me. I'm just not into that scene.

I listened to Tukso Okey at Gaslight (live). I do believe he is my "orgasmic" guitar player from some weeks ago. He sings too, one of those scratchy voices that are nevertheless satisfying to listen to. Nice, nice way to end the night.

September 24, 2008 Wednesday

Okay, it's been a while, ha ha. My excuse is that I have been still involved with Second Life nearly every day. Real life too, I started a semester of college.

Hmmm, so what to tell you.

Best thing . . . heaven and I are still together, SL and RL. So you can imagine we've been hitting a lot of romantic spots. We make it to Frank's every once in a while. We find new places, especially by looking at the Wonderful Evening Guides (I continue to write for them). And we have our favorites now, also. I'm not gonna tell you necessarily, ha ha, because I want it to be just me and heaven there.

I'm still decorating the cabin. Just today, I put in a hot tub and a sleeping pelt as well as a floater out on the pond. I also bought a few more things -- a candelabra, and stained glass table, and a print of the Milky Way that will go up when I next take the chance. heaven keeps his motorcycle by the front door of the cabin. Love that.

It's been a little while since I did some serious creating and working on my shop, but I will. I have learned how to do "poster boards" that the customer will buy from; however, it is difficult for me, and I need to get in a rythm of it, and get a better background texture, font, lots of stuff. It's just not the best I could be. But my shop on Rockaway (Scilly) is a little labratory for me, a little hodge podge of things while I learn how to do some really great things with creating and marketing. When I get it all in the shape I am satisfied with, I am going to blow this thing up big.

I've had a bit of disappointment in the DJ-ing department. I made a lot of effort with Winamp, which is free, but have practiced and also talked to others, and it simply is not a good medium for DJ-ing. SAM is the next step, but I hear it costs a bit, and I simply can't justify that in RL yet. So, hm, maybe a Christmas present for me, or sometime next year. Have to remind myself it's just Second Life (gasp!) although I really was looking forward to sharing my favorite music with my friends and my favorite clubs. I think they all would have had me as DJ. In any case, I will work as a hostess and/ or a dancer at Runningbear Beach (club) which is where I have my cabin. And I'll keep writing for Wonderful Evening Guides.

I have attended another meeting for Convivencia Institute, and there is one tomorrow. Right now we are just figuring out scheduling -- what type of events and when. But I'm glad to be a part of it. I can't jump full in this yet either, too much RL, but I'm glad to be making contacts and friends. I'm really excited about how SL and Convivencia Institute can fit into my larger goals of peace work in the world, as I grow in what I'm doing in RL with this. I should say, I actually have a lot of ideas as to how SL and my RL can intersect 9and the real lives of others). This becomes what truly excites me about Second Life, even more than the shopping, he he.

Other than that, I continue to attend dances and live performance events. Went to Gaslight -- was it Toksy? prolly butchered that name -- I have Never Ever heard a more sublime extended guitar lick, was slightly orgasmic, he put that much of himself into it. Tipped him huge just for that moment.

September 9, 2008 Tuesday

Hmm, what an SL weekend.

The following isn't necessarily in any order.

I got paid Lindens for my first job!!! This was writing the guide to a romantic spot for Edge and for Wonderful Evenings.

I did attend a couple of lectures on Saturday at Global Handshake festival. I learned some things about making a trustworthy space, and I'm now part of the Convivencia Institute. I'm sure you'll hear more about these groups that came together for the Global Handshake, because I imagine getting deeper involved.

I had the wonderful . . . heh . . . experience of getting my account disabled. I wasn't able to get on Second Life for about 2 days. NOOOOOT GOOOOOD. Ha ha. I was in pain. But I did call the Linden billing line and they helped me out, and in the end I was able to get a new password. I didn't really understand why my account had been disabled; only that they said it had been "compromised". So I guess I'm glad the Lindens watch for these things. I also was helped nicely by live online support chat, but the onlly thing they could do was tell me to call the billing office.

I now have rented the Cedar Lake Cabin, as it is called, at the Runningbears. I had been shopping for some things for a while before. I have put up my stained glass and my Aztec art. I put up the baby grand piano, plus a slow dance pose ball set nearby. The piano plays Titanic's "My heart will go on." Very soothing. I have about 4 different fireplaces, but none of them worked. I also have about 3 different hot tubs, and none of those worked. Can you say . . . more shopping??? Ha ha.

I have met another nice gentleman, heaven. He has been very kind, and we have been enjoying dating over the weekend.

September 6, 2008 Saturday

The place where my cabin is keeps getting improved. The water is in the lake, and the trees surround the bank of the caldera.

I am "this" close to being ready to DJ. I think I have all my equipment and songs ready. I just need to sit down and work out times that I can work. In fact, I see that Runningbears have an empty slot today. So if I can get my ducks in order before someone else takes it, that is a possibility!

I went to one place called Samurai Japan. This was a very lovely place -- snowy mountains. They take their roleplaying seriously though; I'm not sure I can do that. I met a nice gentleman who stood ready to help. I think I will look at a few places before deciding, though.

I try to take two tours each Saturday. I went to a place called Midnight Fantasy, which was space, and dreamy, and garden themed. And then I went to October Country. That was a bit fun -- there were ghosts and a graveyard and pumpkins.

I'm actually really upset about the fact that I keep getting in a bit with married men. I have started asking, but I think I'm getting to where I'm just going to ask upfront before even the first dance. Because they certainly aren't upfront with it. And then I think I have a nice date partner, but then when I ask they say they are married. Bollocks. It makes me feel like crap and that's not what I'm on Second Life for. But it's my responsibility to protect myself, so . . . can't trust anyone, I guess.

I missed yesterday's activities, but when I was looking through Events today I came across Global Handshake. And it is being held at and near the Alahambra. I even ran into the gentleman who built the SL Alhambra, he was very kind and showed me where to go. He lives in Spain, and we commented how SL joins us all across oceans. The virtual world possibilities of peace and unity excite me. So anyway, I'm going to listen to some lectures and go to some music activies today in regards to Global Handshake. And maybe it is one more thing I can participate in.

I have been dancing at home (Scilly) last night and today so I check out my streaming music, and it's good that I did because I have a found a few songs that aren't streaming well, so I'll need to fix the Debut set.

I went to the Showcase which was Gibson Island, yes, the guitar. It was okay; I did take the trolley ride that circled the Island.

Well I see a snail race and skydiving today, but I probably won't get to it, because of the Global Handshake I'd rather do.

September 2, 2008 Tuesday

Trident (and Bailey) showed me the cabin and mountain he built for me. It's not finished. But I can't believe the view I have! The sunset, wow! And I'm going to be right on the edge of a lake. The cabin is quite large actually, but I bet I can live with that, ha ha.

I've been working on product sign boards for my shop. I feel like I've made good progress and know what I'm doing now, but it isn't just exactly right. Trying to get good coloring, good lettering. But when I'm done with this project, pretty much nothing is going to stop me.

September 1, 2008 Monday

This was a good day. Sammi and Maikl put The Tube in the park for a day long party because of Labor Day. I went a couple of times.

I toured Cork, Ireland. It was lovely to hear the gulls, the church bell, the fog horn. I swung on a tree swing. Sat in a coffee book shop.

I bought a golf cart. It's hard to steer, and makes a lot of noise, but I might have fun tooling around Scilly in it.

I ended the day by sailing my sailboat around the entire island (Scilly).

August 30, 2008 Saturday

Yesterday Andii, Ralph, Sammi and Maikl with lots of help from Marc and from their list of DJs put on a huge 12 hour beach party event. Mena won the contestof 1000 L and a piece of Scilly land. Sp*t came so it was fun to dance with him and catch up. I refused to wear a thong, of course, but I did have short shorts and a bikini top, and put my hair up, and "my Corrys" as I call them -- my favorite pair of heels. I just put them on, they go with everything, if I don't have any other specific shoe look I need or want.

I also put on a gown and wings and hair all in silver for the Best in Silver at Brother Brigham's for their dance. I had a nice conversation with a gentleman; he talked about how they were trying to put together an LDS singles group in SL.

I didn't want to change my silver gown, so I went back to the beach party in that for a few minutes.

I also wanted to write down that I met Galactic last Sunday, and "at your service, m'lady" he showed me around Lyonesse and I showed him around Scilly. Also last week I won 300 L for Best in Wings at Runningbear's although I was the only one on the contest board, ha ha. They are too kind. But I accepted it because I was out of Ls at that point, and then gave some nice tips. I did have a pretty hot pair of wings, black. Trident has started on his mountain, and Bailey (his wife) has her mall up (where I will rent next as soon as I figure out one more technique for my shop).

Today I spent a lot of time at Riverwalk trying to finish up the guide to it. I actually saw Edge there, and talked to him. I am done with the guide except I'm half way through the final walk through and proof read; and I need to take a snapshot. This project was a lot of work. It's a detailed sim. Lovely. But I love this and I will continue to do this if Edge will let me.

I toured a Mexico/Maya place. I rode a horse around that place. I toured the San Diego sim. Shopped in both places. The Mexico/Maya especially had some inexpensive art and pottery and such, 45 L. The San Diego had a Peace and Justice Coalition, which is what brought me there in the first place. Yesterday I was looking at possibilities for peace groups to join and peace work to do. I was surprised at how much there wasn't. A few things I'll check out over the coming days. But there is definitely room for what I'm going to do. The Runningbears may let me put my sanctuary on their land (renting, of course). I already mentioned it to Trident.

August 28, 2008 Thursday

I've continued my daily business and adventures on SL. I did find it necessary to put an announcement in my profile -- please no jerks . .. only I wrote more than that, ha ha. I met a man who did not disclose that he was married until we'd spent some time together and he was trying to date me (and that was just one jerk I've met). I wasn't really that interested in him anyway, but just the idea. That is not! what I'm in SL for, sorry!!

Thankfully I've met some really sweet people. I've spent more time with the Runningbears, I'm glad they let me hang around.

The best time I had this week was when Con, who lives in Scilly, was out and about in the streets at night, and so I went out. He was playing army and then he got his ninja stuff and I got my kimono -- which I had shopped for and wanted to wear. I had some medieval swords (not asian) that I wear now because they sheath and hide. But they come out, one in each hand, and I can animate with the keys to slice those suckers around!! It's exhilarating! So we just messed about a bit, and I got some tips from him on shopping for katanas (japanese swords) and such.

I've started to systematically read through the secondlife website (http://www.secondlife.com/) so that I can educate myself.

Marc and I had a short hovercraft ride -- we each had a hovercraft -- at a lake or sim called Avalon. So that was fun. Marc was THE first person I met when I blinked my way out of the orientation Island. He was on Help Island, a second spot. But I have learned that he is connected to Scilly and The Tube, so I've met up with him again. He's a nice guy.

I also dragged another gentleman (Griz) along with me to several places I wanted to go -- a couple of live concerts, and the Purple Moon ballroom. He was pretty forward, but I called him on it, and then he was pretty nice also. I don't know. I just suck at any and everything related to dating and men and women, in SL too. Ha ha. I just fumble through it.

August 22, Friday

This and that. I finished some shopping I had started last night for a cabin for the snow property. I want something not too big, not too small. I may have found something. I'm not sure. It's the best so far.

I also am working on creating that dating guide for Riverwalk Landing. It is more work than I expected, but it's going to be so worth it when I'm done. Sp*t and I really enjoyed finding everything the guide had said about Fantasy Falls, so I want to do that for others.

In my daily inventory organization I spent time on putting all my silks in one folder. I have over 20 silks!!! In fact I have to finish that up later, it also takes a lot of time.

It's Friday, the weekend, so I've received a lot of notices on some fun and formal and musical and whatnot activities from my different groups and such, so I should have a very full SL evening. It's great, because there's nowhere to go in this RL small town I live in.

I started dancing at the Tube for some time, they had a good crowd. I danced at the Purple Moon, by myself. I danced at Frank's Place, mostly alone, although I did dance a couple of waltzes with a gentleman in a Darth Vader kit. I danced at Chabrel's Jade dance floor, where I really was by myself, absolutely empty at that moment. Although it was sunset by the beach, so I just gave into the music. I danced at Bogart's, to myself. I had a lovely cream colored gown for these formal places. I danced alone at Dolce Vita's Intimate moments. They had great music. I made appearances at Shooting Star and Blue Tattoo. Mena came with me to those two places. And Brother Brigham's was doing a Planet Dance. Also great music, sweetheart songs. And then Mena and I ended the night of dancing at Runningbear Beach; I really love it there. I took off my fancy duds eventually, took off my heels, my crazy hair (just put it down), and got on shorts and a black bikini (and a tat, of course) while at Runningbear. It's that kind of place. (In the interest of chronicling all my SL adventures, had a slight, topless, wardrobe malfunction for a bit; nobody said anything though, ha ha.) And Kaine Runningbear -- it's hard to pick because there are sooo many good DJs -- but I think he's slowly becoming my favorite. I'm more of a hard rock gal than a club dance gal, that's why. But I like any and all music -- even the old time songs at Bogarts and Frank's.

Now it's SL sunrise, so I'm sitting at the Rockaway fire pit just enjoying and being peaceful. I figured out that my little green sailboat does have a Ride script, so I took it about the island, it goes pretty fast and is hard to control, but it was fun. It doesn't quite go all the way around the island because of the way the island is shaped, you hit offworld pretty near the island. I also found a swim ball on one side of the island so I swam for a bit. Eventually those parcels will belong to someone and have a house on them, but for now they are bare.

I think I'll go shopping for little houses/cabins more. I have found 2 that I do really like, but still . . . maybe the One is out there. Ha ha.

Well apparently the night isn't over, because I keep getting party notices. Runningbear is far from over and is doing their best in black, so I'm all in leather now. Then there is a 50s pool party somewhere's that I heard from Wonderful Evenings guide. So party til I drop I guess.

August 21, 2008 Thursday

Well, Sp*t and I continue to spend some lovely time together and on SL. We have the boat, the lighthouse, the house, shopping, The Tube. Then we usually, but not always, find a romantic spot to have a more formal date. Today it was Fantasy Falls. That! you need time for, but soooooo worth it.

I found more party spots. Some of these people are interconnected, and they go about. I've got with a nice group (other than The Tube's really nice group, always my first love), that go about to a few places. Including Runningbear Beach which I will definitely be back to. And this was the answer to my SL prayers for a little snowy, mountain small, but high prim spot. And I have been looking all over and finding nothing right!!! One of the Runningbears is building a snowy mountain, he hasn't even done it yet, and he asked me what I wanted!!! Ha ha ha. So I can't believe how PERFECT this is all turning out. Beyond amazing.

August 20, 2008 Wednesday

I had asked Sammi (who with others owns the Scilly sim) if I could place a boat in the waters surrounding the island. They graciously said yes. I had shown my choices to Sp*t yesterday, and he made the final selection. So I put my little sailboat up on the side of the island where the lighthouse is (away from Rockaway beach actually). I put a set of "hold" pose balls on the seat, however, I'm not satisfied with that. I need to shop for more couple pose balls. I just have the one, and I'm also using it on the cheetah sofa.

I did this and that with my shop. I added my shop areas to my Picks on my profile. I had trouble placing boxes on my Harvey's Village booth, so I shot my landlord an IM. I bought some Wonderful Evening Guides, and will read them later. Also was in contact with another nice woman who apparently is either employed by or owns with Evening guides with Edge. Her name is Marissa.

Harvey IMed me back, and told me I needed to activate my group to be able to rez my boxes at the booth there. Later he gave me a gift!!!! It was a huge sign with shells and my shop name!!! Wow. I'll have to place it tomorrow.

Sp*t gave me a gift too. A beautiful red gown, and including a little sashay walk animation, ha ha. So we danced at a Valentine Ballroom in Hell as he christened it before we were done. ha ha. And then SL went haywire as far as not being able to teleport and I got out of SL to try to re-log and no go.

Oh, earlier, Marc rezzed his huge spaceship right in the street of Scilly and he showed me and Sp*t about it. Ha ha. It had seating area, like a lounge! ha ha. Woot, woot, Marc.

August 19, 2008 Tuesday

I have been two weeks on Second Life now. It seems like forever. A lot has happened. It's been challenging, romantic, poignant, spiritual (I went to Maikl's Christian teaching last Sunday), liberating, prosperous, imaginative, friendly, and so much more.

So it is fitting that today I went ahead and paid for a year of premium membership. A very good deal for as much as I intend to use this opportunity. Also, my rents on my Scilly home and my two shops (Scilly and Harvey's Village) are all paid up so that is a good feeling. I did go and donate to the NCI stipend ball.

My main goal right now is to find a second parcel in a mountain snow area. My second most important goal is to continue to learn what I need to, to be successful in my shop, including building cute pieces to sell; but also learning about other SL business helps and tasks, etc. My third most important goal right now is to continue the two jobs that I am going to do in SL, that is, to write dating guides, and to DJ; so there are several tasks ahead of me involved with that.

I finally listened to the tutorial on www.secondlife.com/showcase (Tutorials) (this was one of Torley's You Tube efforts) on how to Report Abuse. So I am glad for the information.

So I was sitting on Rockaway just catching sun, when Marc rezzed a plane and tried to get it flying. Wow.

I watched the full moon (which it always is in SL) from the light house tower in Scilly.

When Sp*t came, we went about, including Moscow's Red Square (meh), dancing in formals in a club in Scotland sim, some cuddle time on a beach. That isn't everything, ha ha. We usually do a bit other things -- the light house, shopping. Like I mentioned, I just can't tell every detail anymore.

August 18, 2008 Monday

Well, the NCI stipend ball has been empty the last few times I went there. I do intend to donate to them and to the money trees I have gotten from when I am a little more flush in SL.

Mena and I sat in my living room (she got the cheetah sofa, I swear that thing is a hit. who knew? I can't get rid of it, because it's Sp*t's favorite too, he he). We talked for about 30 minutes. So one more great way to use SL. She really needed some support, and, hey, I did too. We have things in common, and we can help each other by talking, which ladies need to do.

I finally reinstalled my printshop, so I made a sign I could live with for my shop, although I prolly will keep tweaking.

Sp*t and I went to Dolce Vita, The Tube, and then formal wear at Frank's Place.

Later we went to Scotland, including the romantic cave they have there.

Shop, shop, shopping for snowy land.

August 17, 2008 Sunday

Well, Edge with Wonderful Evening guides got back to me with some feedback. He was encouraging as far as it being a first effort, but there were several things needed to make it best, and so I will work on that this week. And when I do the guides it will have to be . . . work!! ha ha.

Sp*t and I explored and cuddled all about 2 sweet places (after dancing at The Tube, of course). Indian Village, and Shanghai City. We are still planning to go somewhere in a tux and formal. I'm not sure when.

I went ahead and rented another little 10 prim booth at a place that looks busy, Harvey's Village. I also am using my first sign. I still need to improve it, but it's better than my most recent "improvements". I just don't have a good program on my desktop for that yet.

It's getting to the point now where I feel comfortable enough in SL, that I probably won't give every detail of my activities. Just the highlights.

I've been building my DJ playlist.

Right now I am sitting around the fire bit on Rockaway Beach with my Scilly neighbors and we are just chatting. It's a perfect Sunday night with friends. The stars are out.

I checked out the Linden snow lodge. It was pretty simple. But there were several people about on the snowy lawn, ice skating, snowballing, having fun. The snow was falling, even. I want to get a little piece of land for a snow spot, a posh little lodge. Maybe even before the peace sanctuary I was going to do? Ha ha. So I spent some time looking at all the snowy attraction spots, although not as many land sales.

When Sp*t came we went to . . . hmm . . . this snowy Japanese place. Silk mountain or something. I'm not sure. We found a stone tower gazebo and a thick carpet to lay on. We talked and held. Just lovely.

August 16, 2008 Saturday

So I'm still waiting patiently until I can arrange things in my RL to be able to sign up for a premium account.

I downloaded winamp, and I started a group for my DJing. So now I have a few more questions for Maikl so that I can continue setting up to DJ. Maybe in a week or two I can debut. But winamp is loads of fun. I started my first playlist.

It was early morning for me, but I headed for the English Breakfast at The Tube (no food, ha ha, just hot music). Maikl did the count down as he always does, although it was my first time to hear it. Sp*t came soon, and we had loads of fun just dancing, and him telling me sweet things in my IM.

This and that. I put some stuff under the "About Me" section of my profile. And oh! Someone bought something from my little shop for the first time! My neighbor Sinya! That was a fun feeling.

I visited Riverwalk Landings once more. This time as I walked through, I wrote a guide. I first asked someone how to make a notecard. It was super easy. Well, Edge is the person who owns Wonderful Evenings guides. He's got a funny little spot for them. A dock with a fire, innertubing. Cute but romantic. He's got a great idea. If he hadn't thought of it, I would have. Making sure people know all the date spots for Second Life. Anyway, I sent off my review. He's not online, so we'll see. I'm excited at this point at helping him make his idea the best it could be.

Well, even though Maikl tried to help me yesterday, I couldn't figure out how to detach a particle fire from a candle I made. And I didn't have a plain copy. So I noted the parameters (size, hole, etc) on the defective one, and then redid it pretty quickly. I placed it at my booth and rearranged boxes. Things aren't perfect there yet, but I'm figuring it out little by little. But between several things, I'm feeling great about my Linden possibilities here in Second Life. I didn't think it was possible. But I faced it with an attitude of learning and I keep plugging away. Of course, I still have a long way to go.

I started working on my sign again, but only got so far because Sp*t arrived.

We danced at the Tube. Then he took me to a spot he picked out, some Rose Gardens. There was a kiss there. We just walked about and tried several cuddle, dance and kiss pose balls. Plus lots of talking too.

August 15, 2008 Friday

The day starts with just some inventory management. I created a folder called Businesses and Buildings, and moved a few things to there. Of course, everytime I find something I don't want at all, I delete it. I picked up a LOT of freebies. And I don't want casinos or weapons, etc., so those are all gone.

I then spent several moments looking through events, teleported to check them out, joined 2 groups. I want to get plugged in a little more with things that are happening about. I found something for Sp*t and I to do on our next date, but I'll tell you about it when it happens.

I also decided that I need to start fixing up my profile, so I took a snapshot of myself (avatar) in front of my fall foilage oak at my Scilly home. I uploaded the snapshot (10 L, of course), and it is now in my profile.

I found another money tree and received a dollar. It was at this cute shop with windchimes and designs and another sweet dance, date spot.

I did some creating. I looked at the object parameters on a jewelry link and copied them. I'm not sure what I did looks right, but it was just practice. I really do intend to take a jewelry class. Then I made a really cute pink candle with a shell textured bowl (but not sculpted). However, I put a fire particle in it, but it was a fire all around the object, and I can't seem to delete it now. And I don't have a pre-fire candle, neglected to copy it at that point. And I'd hate to redo my work on the candle, though possible. So I'll just ask a question some time to someone.

I also did not have success in re-doing my sign for the seaside booth. Ah well. I'll keep working. I did change some labeling, and arrange things. So I am satisfied with that. So the sign and the candle are the next two things I am working on. I will do a candle without fire, but I would like to find a little fire I can use. We'll see.

Sp*t showed up. He only had a minute or two. He was in the process of leaving me another sunflower. I was afk working on the sign. But we got to talk (etc.) for a minute.

I also found a lay on side pose ball for the bed I like that allows me to watch the telly. I think I figured out the pose ball alignment problem on the balls. It's just that you can't see the rotation happening because it is a ball. You just have to keep trying it out by "sit here", and then re-adjusting. So next time I'm on, I'll put my recline ball back on and adjust it.

When Sp*t came again, we went to a balloon ride (Purple Moon). And then slow danced a bit in the court yard they have there. Then we went home to the cheetah couch and held there for a bit and talked more.

I don't remember some stuff, but I know that Sp*t came again and we went to the Windchimes place where we tangoed, and cuddled, floated in the fountains, watched the sunrise. At one point (and I said I had a suprise for him), we went to a high bridge overlooking a long, high waterfall (this was all night time). And there was a kiss set there. So he held me, held my face, and we kissed until I was dizzy. So that might be why I don't remember the other stuff. Oh, yea, I wore a tshirt, shorts and my fluffy slippers for that, ha.

Why Second Life Is Good For My Real Life

*I live in a place where there isn't too much green or trees, and my lifestyle at present doesn't permit me to get away too often to where there are trees. Being in Second Life with all the beautiful greenery -- it has done my heart so good, lifted a great spirit burden; which thus leaves me better able to live in my "green-less" Real Life.

*I have often opined that I need several parallel universes to do all the desires and ideas and things I want to do in life. In RL, I've simply had to jettison some of my enjoyment and talents in order to focus on some crucial priorities. I don't regret this as far as RL. However, voila, here I am in SL, and I have many of those parallel universes now. For example, the fact that I am going to set up to DJ. Music is a big part of my soul, but I haven't had a lot of room in RL to fully express it. So I'm looking forward to the SL opportunities.

*I am being trained in finances. I can make mistakes and have successes in Ls (Lindens) with consequences in SL, but not huge repurcussions in RL. But the way I'm starting to think and the confidence I'm getting obtaining my own Ls is spilling out over into confidence and skills in real dollars.

*I like the liberty that is in SL. You can be bad or good. You can be sexual. You can be PG. You can have a war. You can have peace. You can do anything. You just might have to do it on your own property or in zones set aside. If you don't want combat or non-PG going on you can say so and enforce it with, at least, a ban. But other than reporting abuse, there is a certain anarchy that exists in SL. That means how you personally govern yourself is what you get, for better or worse. There is no central government. Most people honor the boundaries of others. There are people who go about making trouble, as I've experienced first hand. But I like the expectation that we are to be adults and to respect others. I also like the view this gives me of how to operate similarly in RL.

[will add more]

August 14, 2008 Thursday

Arrived in SL just as sun was rising, perfect timing. Had a notice from Starlight that she had a new, larger showroom, so I think I'll go over there first thing.

I edited a couple of people out of my friends, just because after our initial meeting, we haven't kept in touch.

Got a notice from The Tube about DJing jobs. I expressed my interest, but said I have to take some time to get set up. The music part -- selection -- no problem. Ha ha. Maikl is talking to me about it now. It is going to be an investment. That means, I"ll prolly have to DJ a couple of places. There is one other club I want to be a part of, we'll see.

So I went by Starlight's Treasures. She is so creative, what she builds.

I watched another tutorial on You Tube (www.secondlife.com/showcase, at the bottom, there are several links and "Tutorials" are one of them. I don't go to You Tube directly). Torley Linden was the one that put these together, and he always sounds like he's having so much fun.

I read a few more notecards at Ivory Tower. I'm not sure I am absorbing all the information, but I'm keeping the notecards for further reference. I also went by the furniture store JJLanes, and got my 50 Ls for advertising in my picks. It really is a lovely store, I'd be glad to do it even without the money.

I wanted to say that, Second Life is pretty much island and beaches. Everything is surrounded by sea more or less, at some place in the geography. Lots of fun. Some of the islands are very mountainous and with forests, but ultimately, you run into the water again. It's how it is all connected.

So I was just home, making notes on my profile (there is a notes tab, I make it my to do list), some curious/nosy young lady just came into my house and looked about. I welcomed her, of course, and talked to her about Scilly a little. I was nosy in houses too at the beginning. Half the time I didn't realize they were people's homes. That's what I did to Lestat. I just moved in, ha ha, for a day or two, and he was very gracious about it.

I also wanted to say that I use Sp*t's notes Tab too. Whatever you put in the notes tab, only you can see. Even Sp*t can't see it. But since there is a limit to how many characters (letters) can go in the notes tab (my own), and since I have a lot of things I want to do with Sp*t, I just put that list in his profile notes tab.

I know about and have used the Plum sandbox and the Ivory Tower sandbox. But I really wanted another place. I have found Little Blue Sandbox. It looks like a good place. We'll see. I mostly just need a place to unpack my inventory (tons of freebies!!). I do some of it at the house, but I don't really like doing that. Well, I think it wouldn't let me rez boxes. But it will still be a good build place. So I'm back at the house for now.

I got $1 from a money tree. And now I am checking out Heron Creek. They have house rentals and performance space. I'm also gonna shop for a painting for the house soon.

I was shopping for art when Sp*t came. It was 9 p.m. for him. 1:00 p.m. for me. He followed me shopping a bit. I was on my last shop that I could handle for the day, when I did find something. It was an abstract of the Tree of Life. It was in deep green, too, like the bedspread is. Gorgeous. I made it big on the wall and tried to set it without hitting Sp*t. He watched the telly (I had put up last night). Also when I got home, Sp*t had put a little sunflower growing in the ground by my mailbox. Ha ha. Presents make me happy, yea? Especially the flowers. Although, I won't be able to have too many more presents, at least out and about. I only have 11 prims left on the lot. I've done a lot with the house, and left the outside mostly unlandscaped, just green lawn. I may still do some 1 prim flora on the lot, we'll see. But I think the house is absolutely finished being decorated, unless I want to change it about. (He he . . . .)

I don't know what it is about Sp*t. It's just like I don't want to be unattached from him.

Well time for some RL.

I had sent Starlight a landmark for my shop stand. So she must have taken a look because she IMed me and said it was cute. So I took a moment and showed her my house too. It was nice just to say hi.

I am trying to make some more bracelets now. Or maybe a shell bowl. So I worked at the Ivory tower sandbox on a new texture for the ringed bracelets. Worked on some labeling. I want to make a link bracelet, but I don't know how to attached the ends to make a ring. So another question to ask someone. A fellow was there saying hello with voice. He seemed kind of a caustic sort, but nice enough. Quoted me Robert Service, lol.

Sp*t came and we sat at the fire at Rockaway Beach and talked serious and fun and RL and looked at the stars. I'm very happy. However, I have chosen to send him off my RL picture, so I wonder how that will go now. I'll give him an easy out if it makes him change his mind. Internet is a strange thing. And SL is another animal all together. Ah well.

When I popped back in, Saskia and Ryan were by the fire. Ryan is the one that does the carriage rides, and also he plays violins for tips. I need to figure out how I can sing for my supper.

So I took forever dressing, ha ha, so The Tube was quiet when I was ready. So I headed over to a spot I found, Shooting Star. This is a cool place. I got some nice greetings. They are playing British invasion and such. It's still a small bunch, less than a month old, but maybe I can help that out.

Sp*t is here and we are about. :) I took him to Seacliff. We are just talking. I dunno if he's seen my RL blog pic, but he hasn't run screaming, yet. He said he did see my pic, and that I'm stuck with him.

I am just in this unbelievable glow. I am . . . I can not believe this. Well, also, he said he had to go soon, but that he wanted to take me somewhere first. And then he teleported me to the top of the lighthouse!!!! He remembered!! We slow danced (thanx to pose balls), and had sunset on. Colby Caillet's song "Realize" was on. I love that song, it's perfect. And I'm going to remember that song for us.

I know this is all sickeningly sappy to the casual observer, but I . . . wow.

We still have one day at a time to do, but we are starting an adventure together, and that's all I can ask. Thanks, Second Life. Thanks, Sp*t.

I was so jazzed and lifted that I walked from the Holland Park in Scilly to my house. There was soundtrack of course, and I just had to put on a dance locally and dance in the night outside my house. Just for me. Just because of joy.

August 13, 2008 Wednesday

I arrived. I usually place myself on my bed when I leave, in my jammies, or whatever I would wear to bed, in this case undies and a gray tshirt. Now I'm sitting on my cheetah couch by the fire in the living room. It's night. I'm going to start off with a You Tube tutorial; this one is one gestures. I see that they are dancing at the club, but I'll wait a bit before I do that. Wait for RL night time :).

I got dressed. I went to JJ Lane's first thing to get my payment for advertising, because it has been more than 24 hours. However, when I went, it said I had to wait another day. Sigh . . . I hope not everything is a scam. Okay, so I will come back. If it doesn't work then, I will just IM the owner.

I did a check on the prims I have left on my land. It is 26. So I think I'm done decorating.

So I tried to solve the problem of the herb plant. I dunno though. I still could not rez it on the land "near the original" as the instructions said. I never got a return IM from the owner, and I left her another. I am rezzing it on my land, and we'll see, but it's making me nervous. I deleted in the middle of my validation process, so we'll see. I'll just keep checking to make sure Ls aren't leaving my account. If they are, hmm, I don't know what I'll do, but lesson learned, eh? And I'll pass on the message to others.

I am on the second floor of the Ivory Tower now. I'm studying more there now.

Sinya got a new house, and she asked me "building" question, which unfortunately I did not know the answer to.

I am at a spot for camping and free L site, but I dunno about some of the ideas here. We'll see. I'm going to check out several spots that advertise camping, and see if any are a good idea. A lot of them are sex spots, so no thanks. Those I skip over.

I found a cool dinner and dancing spot called Frank's Place. Of course, when I find things like this, I think of taking Sp*t to it.

I looked at a few more You Tube tutorials. Little things to know, I guess, but no huge revelations that I can use (yet!).

Okay now I'm really excited. I was browsing the classifieds and found a writing job (SL) that pays a relatively huge amount of money. It is right up my alley!! I will be writing some guide book stuff -- or I will if they accept me. I just IMed the owner so we'll see. Because I've been having a BLAST exploring SL and finding romantic spots and telling others about them anyway, so yea, I can advertise this to all my friends, as a Pick place. We'll see if they are still wanting writiers for it. I may tell him to divide his guides up into 1 and 2 and 3 with the same title, because charging more than 150 L per guide? I dunno.

I'm checking out NCI (New Citizens Incorporated). I also figured out that I will be getting a premium account -- less than 75 dollars a year -- because there is a L stipend that comes with it, and I am going to be doing this heavy duty. NCI has Business starting classes I will have to catch sometime, and they said they have a stipend program, so I'll have to see. I think I haven't checked out all the classifieds yet either.

I danced at the Tube, and danced with James. I think I could probably eventually figure out setting up DJing. I can probably learn some DJing off SL. I will need a microphone, too.

I think the herb tree is just a scam.

You know, a lot of SL just seems empty. That is too bad. It makes me want to have an idea about it.

Well, I finally got my question answered about how to make a sign. You canNOT make fancy wording and letters in SL. You have to do it on your desktop application, and then upload the image (10 Ls) where it becomes a texture. I can take it from there. I'm graphics software poor. I only have Paint. I used to have print shop, but I dunno where it is right now. Will have to re-install. But I will attempt to do something with paint, and we'll see. Ha ha!! I was even praying to God about this question.

After I make the sign, my next order of business is to get on landmark/Linden Search results, which I think costs weekly Ls. But if I get that premium account next week, no problem. Patience, patience . . .

I was at the Ivory Tower sandbox, and this woman came up to me, and said hello. She turned out to have been here a year, and she VERY generously answered my questions about sign making (she got on voice too; makes me want my microphone, ha ha). People are soooo nice. I know I said this before, but I hope I can just keep paying it forward.

Okay!!!! I made my sign!!! I am sooooooo excited!!! I made it on paint, it is very simple but cute. I paid to upload the image, and it is on the kiosk. Now the next order of business is to get into the search results, but I will wait til next week after I get my premium account.

I did change my account info, so that I could get some more Ls so that I wouldn't lapse on the rent of the house. But I am so feeling better about this Linden money stuff. It will all fall into place soon.

The guy who I can help write the guide with also IMed me! So I am super excited! I will write something to give to him.

Sp*t came. He is UK. I am west USA. So it is late at night for me, before work for him the next day. He saw how I had done the sign. Then he ironed his RL pants while I dressed in SL. Then we went to Willow Grove Zoo. It wasn't too elaborate, but it was pretty cute, animals all about. But the best part is they had a little dock or deck by the water. So we sat in the lounger and he held me. We talked, SL stuff and RL stuff. Oh. My. Gosh. He kissed my forehead and then my mouth and gave me hugs and squeezes. Or he would have. Honestly, I was NOT expecting this!!! I know I said that already. But I am considering Sp*t's regard a very valuable thing. There is so much more I could say, but it's not for this blog. But gosh . . . I'm dating!!! (It wasn't happening in RL!) And is it pathetic that my first kiss, really, of any romance or importance was on SL? ha ha. It's sweet and cool actually. I got kissed all the way from UK. I'm allowed to be girly about this, aren't I?? Squeal! Ha ha.

Well, I got the rent paid for another week. That is off my chest. I just feel so great about SL developments right now.

Now I am sitting by the fire ring at Rockaway beach (Scilly) for the rest of the sunset, and the stars. Peace invades my soul . . . .

I opened stuff, organized inventory. I put up a plasma tv in the bedroom. I put out a mailbox -- it even says when I'm online or not to other people. I put a "reclined" post ball on the bed. It looks a little weird, but I'll keep looking for the best one. I left a note for Sp*t for the next time he gets online.

End of the day . . .

August 12, 2008

This morning has seemed long and interesting but ultimately fruitless. I am trying to create or buy a business sign, but I can't seem to find something I can buy, or understand the principles. I can see EVERYWHERE the signs people use to show their wares, and I don't even see something like that I can use. Even though I really want a cute sign, but I'll take any at this point.

I am dancing at The Tube. I need to ask someone questions, so I'll probably go to a help place soon.

I just did some routine inventory organization. I checked out a new infohub. I am thinking again that I need to fit in at least on You Tube tutorial a day just for good measure. But I don't feel like starting now.

I listened to a You Tube tutorial, and learned about HUDs. But I don't think I understand them well enough. That may be my answer to making a sign, but, yea, I still need help. I can't seem to locate any help, lol.

I met my new Scilly neighbor, Sinya. We talked for a bit on the picnic benches in the park at night, and toured each others' houses. She keeps trying out pool and fountain features in her yard. She feels like I do, how wonderful it is to be a part of Scilly and the great environment Sammi and Maikl and the other owners are making it.

I did spend time resting in the Scilly chapel today. I toured several places to check out, landmarks in my inventory I hadn't gotten to yet, mainly infohubs Vincente had shared with me.

Sp*t did come. It is early a.m. for him in RL, before RL work. It is late at night for me, past 10 p.m. But we talked and danced at the Tube -- it was sooo fun to have a partner for that -- and then went to the beach for good bye.

I bought a bonsai and the burning candle box I'd had my eye on. I put them by my Japanese screen and cherry table. A little meditation center on my porch.

I also ran into a bit of trouble getting Ls. I'm going to have to pay attention to my RL banking, ha ha. Ah, well. Because house rent is due very, very soon.

I wanted a hug animation to hug Sp*t good bye. After he left, I found that I did have one. I am also still looking for a sleep or lay down animation for my bed. I found one that may do, but the person is selling it for 200 L, so . . . ha ha. Save up for it, or run into a cheaper one.

I did do some more learning at Ivory Tower (re prim building). And I started a second bracelet shape. I've also been imagining what is the first thing I can do with the shells Sp*t says he is getting, and I think I'll try a little candle bowl first. Then probably a necklace.

I looked for land for a sanctuary, even though it's way too early to buy. I need to get a shop or two or three in the works and generating money. But it is fun visiting land, and I saw one or two places that I think would be lovely to do. We'll see. I've got to find the elements of land beauty, high prim, reasonable price, and zoning covenants. Also who my neighbors are.

I do have a small problem. On some of my furniture I float when I'm sitting. Not a biggie but just one of those nagging annoyances I sometime hope to solve.

I will get 50 L a month for advertising a store called JJ Lane. Some of these stores, people have gone all out and are soo creative and created such beautiful objects and atmosphere. It's amazing. I'm also wondering if I can build up to DJing at The Tube, but it'll take a while to get that put together, a learning curve, but in the end I think I'd be good at it. They are wanting more DJs. Also, I'd have to have the RL time for it, so we'll see.

August 11, 2008 Monday

Well, this morning began with disaster. I deleted my house (was trying to delete a different object, I'll have to be Very Careful with that in the future). Talk about mistakes not to make again. I rezzed it again, of course, but the trouble is, is that Sammi (nice lady and part owner of Scilly), had done a lot of work the other day with editing the house, it's position on my land. So, I do have privacy back, but it's a little off with the positioning. You know how when you try to set a painting, you are like, "a little more this way", "a little more that way"? Try doing it with a house. There I was standing in my jammies and slippers and my furniture on my lawn. ha ha. Luckily no one was around. Now the door is not attached properly and some other weird things. I'm probably going to have to tweak it just a bit every day. It might actually be easier to delete and reset the furniture, we'll see. But I do need to line up the door. Sigh . . .

I next spent some time figuring out how to get my item inside a box and to sell (I asked someone). I think I got it working. Ralph (who I rent from) came and tested it all out for me. The tip jar still seems weird but I'll figure that out too. Maybe get rid of it.

So I have one free bracelet, and one 10 L bracelet. I still have to figure some stuff out, but I really feel good about it. For example, I"m using floating text to show what the item is, and I really need to get a picture on the front of the box. The floating text clutters things up, plus they wouldn't really be able to see how it looks.

Sp*t came, in fact, he was sleeping in one of the beach chairs when I got there. It looked so cute. He was waiting for me. So after he watched me fuss with my shop, we rode bikes around Scilly, mostly down to the light house. We flew up to the top of the light house. There are dancing spots up there (will have to go back, wink). Then I showed him Riverwalk Landings, we walked down the gallery dock, and ended at a spot where we could sit and eat dinner. It was a good day except for getting bald twice in front of him, and sitting in the salad first before figuring out the chair. But I really enjoyed the conversation, we were able to have a real one.

Next is still to work on my shop. I only have 20 prims total, so we'll see. And I am renting the spot for 150.00 so I basically need to sell two 75 L items a week to break even, which I dunno about that. I think I can put a landmark in the search database, but that costs another 30 a week, so I will have to sell three 75 L items. I probably can do that, but I'm going to have to get some nicer pieces. And maybe I can hang the bracelets without the boxes or the floating text, except they are so tiny. So we'll see.

I tried to put music on my parcel, but it didn't work really.

Put on my jammies and slippers, and went to bed.

When I returned, I did some inventory managing. Then I partied for some time at the Tube (getting on a cool outfit). Mena had lost all her clothes. So people gave her some, including me, a few things. Now I am meditating by my Japanese screen on my porch while I do some real life stuff. I also spoke to Starlight on IM for a bit; she knows I have a new house. Oh, and one thing, apparently Sp*t has mentioned me to his other friends (sweet) coz Jade and Axi (friends and fellow partiers at The Tube) said a little sumthin sumthin about it.

The day has continued with friends, dancing, organizing. I built several more bracelets and put them in a box to sell at my kiosk. I'm going to keep learning prim building at Ivory Tower, and then get textures from Sp*t, to do a few more pieces. 20 prims go fast. But when it's full I will get a second place and figure that one out, and link the two also.

Sp*t came buy. I bought a huge aquarium (it looked small in the store). And Sp*t watched me put that in, ha ha. That's about all he's doing. Ha ha. He is going to the seashore in RL, to make some photos. But he says it is blustery.

The lady next door had bought and put in a pool, ha ha. Just, pop! and it's there in my view out my window.

Sp*t continues to say he loves my company, and obviously it's mutual. This is strange. I wasn't expecting this. I honestly was just saying hi to someone, and here he is still with me, which is perfectly lovely. Course I'm not saying SL is RL, not at all. But it's still nice.

I looked at some friends' shops. Now I am pre-looking at land for the sanctuary.

August 10, 2008 Sunday

Well, I thought there was a business starting tutorial, but if there was, I can't find it. I'll have to keep looking for educational opportunities then.

Right now, basically I went freebie shopping a whole bunch last night, so I am just going to work on my inventory.

I just got an invite to LDS Sunday Social, so I'll go to that later.

I do want to completely set up my shop with the one bracelet today, sigh.

There are still some clothes inventory things I need to do. Like labeling or deleting some different clothes I made when I didn't understand. Just clearing the clutter. I did do a lot on the inventory organization. But there is tons more to do. It gets tiring. So I guess I will do a little each day.

Sp*t came for a few minutes, and also Mena. I introduced them. They took a look around my house with the new furnishings. Mena was the first person I met in Scilly when I bought land. She was very nice.

Okay, I'm going to look at jobs and money making opportunities, I think now. I think I'll go to the Showcase place too. I found a camp spot, and made $2 for dancing for five minutes, ha ha. But until I get my shop set up, I'm going to keep doing the camp things.

I found the herb tree. But I IMed the owner, because I couldn't follow the instructions. I hope it's not a scam.

Now I'm going to dance at the tube.

I talked to Vincento to tell him about how I was now, and had him tour Scilly and my house. Nice good chat. Sp*t came, and cutie, he said, oh, you have company, I'll come later, and I was like, oh, no, please come and meet this dude. Ha ha.

So then Sp*t and I talked for a long time, and he watched me put up a chair. I think the spark of love, oh so small, has arisen in me for him. He's just sweet and normal. I think I will need to tell him a few basics about my RL. But not much.

Oh, he loves my house. I do too. But I think I want to remember to tell him next time that really I'm a frilly person.

When I came back to SL, Sp*t had left a message for me. “I left you a pressie.” Ha ha. It was a big bunch of roses on the table. He is soo sweet. I think I'll keep him. I can't believe I met him.

I went to the very end of the concert at the amphitheatre in Scilly, then I spent a little time at the Sunday Social (LDS), then I danced in the Tube for a while, and even got a song request. Then I walked about Riverwalk Landing, then took a swan ride during the sunset for 30 minutes and saw lots of cool places I'll have to come back and explore.

So now, I can't help it, I'm shopping. I'm looking for a candle.

I also wrote notes on myself and Sp*t, my SL to do list. I really need to pick someone's brain on the bracelet and shop. Maybe Lady Starlight will help me, I'll leave her a message. Also I need to continue at Ivory tower (learning prim creation).

August 9, 2008 Saturday

Well, I mentioned it a little bit, but I wanted to go into more detail. I now live in the little seaside village of Scilly (sort of British). The water and sand here is gorgeous. There are cobbled streets and cute street signs. I live on Baker Street. There is a church, and an outdoor theatre. One of the residents gives carriage rides (I haven't gone on one yet). Actually, I think they cost a little L (which is the SL money). There is a light house. There are park areas, picnic tables and gazebos. There is a Tube, which is the underground rail turned into a club spot. I obtained a bike to ride around the island with. I went ahead and splurged on a bikini, ha ha, since I live by the ocean. Sp*t was the gentleman I met. The only drawback is that my lot will not accept too many things on it. So my house will be carefully and sparsely furnished. But that is okay, I'm sure I will get another place elsewhere, like Elf Haven next to Lestat and Starlight.

Today's order of business: Visit to the sandbox to unpack anything. Find out about inventory for shops and get into business based on what I learn. Perhaps some trees and furniture around the house. Visit the GFC Academy (Star Trek). Also I need to find out why my music doesn't work usually. Visit anywhere else if I have time. Attend the Scilly activities this weekend. They are having their grand open of the island. I got there just in time! Ha ha.

I went to the grand opening blessing at the Scilly church this morning. I met the man I bought land from (Ralph). Then I took a carriage ride.

I am at Star Trek Federation Fleet. I even took a shuttle ride. I partied at the Tube (in Scilly) earlier. It's not really transportation, it is just a club. Lot's of cool dancing. Now I'm dancing at a Star Trek party. I can't believe all the dancing I”m doing.!! I have a whole folders of dances now. Ha ha. I met Kenny and danced with him.

I also found another free shop and got a whole bunch of stuff. I'm going to have to organize my inventory very soon. I tried my hand at making a tie dye bracelet.

Oh, I got griefed today by about 6 hoodlums at the Plum sandbox. I didn't report them, I wasn't sure how, and I just wanted to get out of there. I think from now on, I'm going to build in the Ivory Tower sandbox. It's a lot better nicer feeling. At least until I get my own build place. I might could build in my house. I'll see.

I did talk to a shop owner about reselling, but she told me things that makes me realize that that is not a good idea. I”m just going to have to get really good, really fast, with building (or creating). I'll have to spend time at Ivory Tower every day learning the prim basics; then take a jewelry class. Getting that shop up and running is the first order of business, so I can hopefully fund the rest of my SL life with SL activities, no more outside money. (I want to buy tons of clothes at other shops!!). I will also have to figure out boxing, tip jars, freebies, pricing, lots of stuff, lol. I know there is a tutorial on YouTube about starting an SL business, so I'll probably learn that too. Oh, I forgot to talk to Sp*t about him doing a texture business, with the shells. Or other photos, really. Next time.

He came again. We spent several minutes in Elven country and looked at the moon. He really likes me. And, actually, I really like him. He's a decent, non-dramatic fellow. Ha ha.

One other guy at the Star Trek thing was flirting with me too. We took the tour together, and Kenny was actually the guide, in his uniform. But then Kenny said I should come to the party (after Knight left, he he), and so I did. He gave me a dance folder, too.

I met a girl at the Elven garden, that wanted to show me a cool spot. I'll have to ask her tomorrow about it. There are a couple more Star Trek places I want to see also. Scilly is having grand opening activities still tomorrow. I need to look at more of recent stuff and unpack it. Maybe deco outside – I wanted to put out the crab sculpture, ha ha. There are still landmarks and such I haven't seen, hubs and such.

Every day is going to be business and fun. I did put out some furniture and carpet today too. Got rid of those AWFUL orange chairs. Sp*t says he likes them, so I'll prolly give them to him. He he. Oh, I solved the problem of the music. I can hear music at parties now, and such. Ha ha.

I don't even want to go to bed. But I guess I will. I have to do the Sabbath properly tomorrow, I'm not sure how much SL I will be able to do. I think SL makes me want to do my RL well, too. And I think about RL money in terms of prims and creating and stuff now, lol. And when I was going to a RL reception tonight, I thought to myself – I need to edit my appearance.

I may get an animal eventually. Oh, I know. I want to find out what scripts are, and/ or animations. I want to get a lay down ball for my bed, etc. And some cuddling or something for my couch. Maybe a hold him and her for the bed too. And a slow dance for the porch, maybe. I think there are free scripts at the Help Tutorial Center, so I may check them out. I also need to aggressively find more ways of making money. I wish I could find that herb tree again. Or I can look for jobs in the classifieds maybe. Then I would like to volunteer, like at the help center, and a peace place. Oh, I should visit the LDS gardens again. I already found a mall where I want to do my next shop, but I will have to make my seashells very good. Maybe I can just make the rounded bracelets, if I can – but put a seashell texture. I just have a lot of questions. I'm going to work on it. In fact, I think I should do mostly work right now, until I can get the shop going very well. And I will have to build constantly thereafter, but maybe I can get some forms that are easy for me after I build them once. After I have a steady stream of L's, I can play and tour and shop more again. Although I should always visit my favorite places again and again. Just no shopping, really, yet. Everytime I go to a pretty place with sitting or dancing, I should landmark it. I can't believe I haven't been doing that.

August 8, 2008 Friday

I often have to start over at a hub called Plum. Which is slightly annoying, but I guess it's familiar.

I have decided I like Elven Glenn, so I went there first. I just want to explore it a lot. I found a beautiful garden park. And I climbed a tree and am sitting in the tree.

So I saw a Third Life poster. I didn't know if that was a joke or real, but I'll worry about that later.

Vincente (the man I had found on top of the hill) helped me figure out how to open my box of hair, so now I lots of hair styles and colors. And when I met Starlight – she was one of the elves I stayed with last night – she gave me wings and dresses. That was so nice of her. She didn't have to do that. It was very generous.

So now I'm at a party and I'm dancing. I'm riding a merry go round here. I rode a ferris wheel. Saw same beautiful architecture based on stones and pillars.

I am sort of living with Lestat now (the second elf? I had met and spent the night with). He has a beautiful home, and he's never there. He did say to me “My home is your home.” I don't want to take advantage of it. But until I get my apartment or until something else happens, I think I'll come back here often. It's a safe place to edit my appearance, too.

Now I am in a space area. Beautiful planets. It is still night.

I bought land and set up my free home. Three really nice ladies helped me. I love where I live. I invited a guy to be there too (I met Sp*t down at the beach when I went to watch the sunset on my first evening in my new home village. He was newer than me. Also I had splurged on a bikini for this beach sunset watching).

I put up two furnitures. I went to two parties, Pendragon again with the ferris wheel; and The Tube club which is at where I live.

August 7, 2008 Thursday

I am exploring around SecondLife.

I am in another beautiful natural place, in a cave even, looking at a statue of Christ. I have talked with a man-fox, lol.

And have done lots of flying!! Oh, this place is going to do my heart good! I can even see a full moon, and I am flying over the sea.

Plus you don't need oxygen, and you don't have pain. So I can fall or bump myself, and I'm all right, I just get to the right spot. And I looked at an underwater garden.

Rob is in SL as Kio, so he has invited me to his place and we are talking. He's a fox in SL, also.

Now I am spending the night in a little cottage in this beautiful, tree-lined space. It even has a church. I would like to get land here, but I am going to have to figure out how much it costs, and where to get the money.

I toured the temple of Solomon.

I spent the night with two elves, in one of their homes.

This is just part of what I did today. I even went dumpster diving and got an umbrella, ha ha.

August 6, 2008 Wednesday

I can't believe it!!

I started an avatar on second life!! Ha ha.

I can't believe the adventures I'm having. I'm flying! I also climbed up a green hill with pine trees in it and at the top, ha ha, there was a dashing gentleman. He was very kind too. I was just like, wo!, when I saw him. Ha ha.