#it really is a dream of mine to get a doctorate in english or creative writing or something

[quirkypossum]

got tagged by @wardenkay for this:

15 questions, 15 mutuals

Were you named after anyone? Technically no I don’t think so apart from  my birth middle name which is my mom’s mom’s name. The name I picked for myself is after a bunch of different things.

When was the last time you cried? I think last week or the week before in therapy. I was having a rough time with my job and being burnt out and generally not wanting to live.

Do you have kids? No, I’m constantly on the fence about having kids. On the one hand I love kids and would love to have them, but I dunno if I can have bio kids and I hesitate to risk being a worse parent than my own are. All of that excludes the fact that it is awful to bring a kid into the world in the state its in along with my own life and financial situations.

Do you use sarcasm a lot? Probably more than I realize. I tend to sound sarcastic when I’m trying to be genuine and sound genuine when I’m trying to be sarcastic.

What’s the first thing you notice about people? I tend to pick up on their general vibe. My first impression of a person is 95% accurate at all times. If you give me a bad vibe right away, it’s only a matter of time before I get proven right. This bites me in the ass a lot because despite my accuracy, I still don’t trust my gut instinct and get hurt because I ignored it.

What’s your eye color? Not to be that person but mine does change depending on the sky and the most prominent colors I wear. They fluctuate between blue, green, and grey.

Scary movies or happy ending? Happy endings, I need some hope in my life.

Any special talents? Not sure what counts tbh, but I have insane beginners luck with a lot of stuff and I can usually win up to the first five games of something new before failing miserably the rest of the time. Another thing might be I’m really good at writing academic essays at the last minute for full points.

Where were you born? United States

What are your hobbies? Currently active hobbies are few and far between. I like to write still and play video games and IF games. Smoking weed doesn’t count but I’m a daily user at this point so it might as well count. Old hobbies I want to get back into include: figure skating, archery, reading actual books, painting, ceramics, etc.

Have any pets? Yes! The loves of my life are Boo Boo, though her legal name is Doctor Mew (change is courtesy of an incident involving having her tail partially amputated), and her sister Schroedy. Both were named as such because my family is a bunch of nerds and I loved Doctor Who when we got them and my sibling and mom were into sciency shit so Schroedy was named after the Schroedinger’s Cat theory. I love them both and they are what keeps me on this earth 90% of the time.

What sports do you play/have you played? I did soccer and softball when I was a lot younger but didn’t do more than four years of either. I did competitive figure skating with a synchro team for three or four years but I’ve been skating for close to seven or eight now. I tried basketball and volleyball when I was younger but I never got into it. OH! I also did archery and I have my own bow and arrows now.

How tall are you? Average to shorter for a guy in the US I suppose. Both wish I were taller and shorter....

Favorite subject in school? Solidly English if it involved fiction and creative writing. I also liked biology and art.

Dream job? Not to have to work.... But if I had to pick something I’d go for either a marine biologist or a small little bookshop owner.

If you read through all of this I commend you. I definitely don’t have fifteen mutuals so after the initial tags feel free to do it if you want and obviously no pressure to do it at all.

Tagging: @vuhii @brat-the-wurst @mapplestrudel @gamer-shrimp-buoy @reindoodles @wallowing-wallflower @lordnochybaty @phantasmaghoria

#tag the possums it #the possum speaks #tag game

[oliverreedmasterass]

15 Questions

Thank you so much for the tag @indigofallingsky and @jmkho!!

were you named after anyone?

My dad told me recently that he chose my name because he had a massive crush on Alyssa Milano which...I don't know how I feel about that. But my middle name is the same as my great-grandmother's.

when was the last time you cried?

literally yesterday while watching Click lmao THE ENDING THREW ME OFF GUARD

do you have kids?

oh no way

do you use a lot of sarcasm?

I do but the problem is most people can't tell that I'm being sarcastic so it just winds up being super awkward when I'm trying to have my comedy hour

what’s the first thing you notice about people?

Whether they look friendly or not? I think a lot of that has to do with their facial expression, idk I have massive trust issues it's bad

what’s your eye color?

green but somehow also kinda brownish-gray - I swear they change based on the day

scary movies or happy endings?

as much as I love laughing at scary movies, I like how a happy ending makes me feel all warm on the inside. I feel like we don't get enough happy endings in real life

any special talents?

I can't really call it "special" but I can do a mean Miss Piggie impression (and by that, I mean I just shout out KERMIE!). I can also name every single player on the San Jose Sharks 2010-2011 roster off memory which is utterly useless

where were you born?

sunny CA baby

what are your hobbies?

writing, reading, having full-blown conversations with my cat, playing the bass/guitar/piano, softball, going to concerts, letting hockey ruin my life

have any pets?

1 little lady called Mocha (I have no clue what cat breed she is, but she is TINY)

what sports do you play/have you played?

soccer and softball - I tried basketball once since I'm tall but I kept standing under the hoop and proceeded to take like 6 balls to the head before being taken out of the game

how tall are you?

5'10" but honestly I'm butthurt that my doctor lied when I was a baby, he said I would be 6 ft wtf

favorite subject in school?

english, creative writing, orchestra

dream job?

writing sketch comedy would be pretty neat but also owning a record store/book shop with live music

No pressure tags!! @starcatcherkiszka @mountain-in-springtime @writingcold @dannyandthekiszkas @fallonfatality @way-to-go-lad @gold-mines-melting and anyone else who wants to participate!!

#personal

[thatsmybluefondue]

A New-Old Writeblr Introduction

Sterling Blue here! So... I was around a couple years ago, and now I am deciding to make my comeback! 

Here’s where I’ve (sorta) been the last couple of years.

Twitter: @/mybluefondue

TikTok: @/thatsmybluefondue

And now...

The introduction!

Name/Pen Name: Sterling Blue

Pronouns: They/She

Age: Uh... Old enough.

Some More About Me: I’m in university for Education in English Language Arts, English, and a minor in creative writing. Then I’m gonna get my Master’s in English, and finally a Doctorate in creative writing. (At least, that’s the plan.) 

I play D&D in my free time, and write (duh), and watch TV (mostly anime). 

My dream, of course, is to be a (good) published writer, and I’m aiming traditional or indie at the moment. Teaching others is also a fun dream of mine, and especially teaching something I’m so passionate about.

Currently, I’m really into graphic novels, so I’ve been writing a lot of those (even though I cannot, for the life of me, Art. I just partner with people). I’m also working on an upper YA novel, and sometimes I dabble in a (sort of?) memoir-type thing.

Without further ado...

The WIPs.

Guardian of the Sun: The Weight of a Life

The world is split into the North and South. In the North, Sunchild Cordelia rules with a careless hand. Because Sunchild Cordelia refuses to leave the castle and spread light and energy, the North has long fallen to ruin—and with the decay of trees, clean air has become a commodity that only the wealthy can afford. Guardian of the Sun: The Weight of a Life follows siblings Nash and Nova, orphans that scam their way to survival. Nash’s cough is worsening though, and only clean air through a specialized mask can improve it—something they can’t yet afford. Nova would do anything for her brother and will carry him however far it takes, even if that means piggy-backing him to the Inner Circle to make more money. But the Inner Circle is different from their wide-spread Outer Circle life, and things will change forever because of their trip—especially when Nova accidentally kills someone for a mask. Now they’re on the run, and Nash is only getting worse.

Distant Dreams

Casey, Preston, and Zara are just ordinary kids when narcoleptic Aurora comes bursting into their lives via teleportation. They think this is their chance to escape The Frozen Land and reach freedom in The Sunny Place across The Mountains, but Aurora has yet to master her powers—and with monsters around every corner and random bouts of teleportation taking them to the worst possible locations, it doesn't seem likely that Aurora will have the chance to learn any time soon.

The Sea Witch and Her Curse

After Alcina’s family is murdered in front of her, an old sea witch takes her to be trained into becoming a sea witch herself. With the sea princes in-fighting over who will become the next king, witches are used as the main line of fighting in these battles and war. But there are dark secrets lurking in these waters, and Alcina does not want to figure them out.

Like Clockwork

Kilo never got to practice magic like everyone else growing up, but he has his chance now. With his internship at Magix solidified, Kilo can practice fighting in the Arenal Department to his heart’s desire. But with upper-rank officials dying left and right and the Anti-Magix Rebellion rising, Kilo will have to use whatever skills he has just to survive the summer—before time runs out.

Mentally Stable

Basically a journal of my journey through mental health. It’s totally fun—not really—and funny—if you enjoy dark humor—and absolutely, positively sane.

There are others in planning stages, but these are the ones with actual words on paper.

Like and comment and reblog and all that jazz, and I’ll follow you if you look like a neat-o writeblr!

#sterling blue #writeblr #writeblr intro

[semercury]

Gosh, can you imagine how powerful I would be if I had all the right brain chemicals in my brain?

#stuff sarah says #God had to nerf me. He knew i was too powerful #im just... i really do wish i could get a phd #i made that post as a joke but like #it really is a dream of mine to get a doctorate in english or creative writing or something #i really want to go back to school #i just dont know how to do that right now and it honestly hurts so bad #im so angry at my brain for fucking up like it has #imagine how far i could be right now if i didnt have breakdowns #and i dont want to try again until i know i wont freak out and want to die #bc its a lot of money... #im frustrated and sad and angry and i really have no one to blame but myself #and thats not even touching the other weird issues i have with getting that degree.... #who am i to do something i want when other people cant? #who am i to be happy when other people arent? #who am i to chase my dream when other people cant chase theirs?

[papermoonloveslucy]

GRAFIC LUCY

April 26, 1953

On April 26, 1953, Lucille Ball appeared on the cover of the Chicago Sunday Tribune’s Grafic Magazine.  Inside, the article is titled “Lucille and Desi. $8,000,000 TV Stars” by Hedda Hopper.  

The photo on the cover is very similar to one that also appeared on this 1954 issue of Dell’s “I Love Lucy” comics. It is likely the phots were taken at the same time during the same photo shoot. 

By HEDDA HOPPER 

LUCILLE BALL, and Desi Arnaz. in their wildest dreams during their upsies and downsies, never imagined that one day they - a couple of strolling players - would be signed to a two-and-a-half year television contract for $8,000,000.

That's a heap of cash in any man's language, and in American money it's like finding the Glory Hole gold mine or stubbing your toe in your own back yard and starting an oil gusher. For actors to sign that kind of contract it's a Disney fantasy come to life. 

Lucy has used a lot of gold dust in her hair, but she's certain now that Peter Pan came to life and covered her from head to toe with pixie dust. But, being Lucy, her one comment after signing the fabulous deal with her TV sponsors was: "It couldn't happen to a nicer pair of kids. I mean our two children, of course." 

And those kids are as famous as their ma and pa. All over America last January, second in news importance to Ike Eisenhower's inauguration, was the birth of Lucille Ball's baby boy. The interest in the big event was fantastic. Tho they've been kicking around Hollywood for a long time, Lucille and Desi have grown into an American Institution in two years via TV. They've received more than fifty awards; their names have become household words. 

I was In Washington for the in inauguration, when Desidero [sp] Arnaz was born.

I’d like to straighten out one point. Lucy didn't have her baby by caesarean to please her sponsors. The operation was necessary. She had her first child by the same process, and since the caesarean operation could be set for a definite date, the birth was worked into the script of the show. The writers took full advantage of it. Since the show deals with an average couple, the pre-natal period reflected that of millions who have, or were having, babies. And to make sure that nothing in poor taste crept in, the Amazes had a Catholic priest a Jewish rabbi, and a Protestant minister check each script.

Lucy wanted a boy, and her doctor told her she'd have one. "I didn't pay any attention to his prediction," says Lucy. "He told me my first baby would be a boy, too. So I had a girl." 

Their show sticks to real life situations and mirrors the trials, tribulations, and fun of marriages enjoyed by millions of average men and women. 

Desi credits the success of the show to that fact "Its an average love story with humor," he explains. "Audiences believe I'm in love with Lucy, and I am. Lucy ' could be a straight dramatic show. In fact, I think there's no really good comedy that couldn't be turned into drama. I believe the average man gets a kick out of Ricky (the name he uses on the show), because he somehow always manages to dominate the woman, tho the victory is not great. Women love Lucy since she gets by with things they'd like to do, but wouldn't dare try." 

A fan wrote Desi: "I used to think my wife was crazy. But after following Lucy, I'm convinced all women are that way, so I'm reconciled to my wife's behavior." 

Desi is proud of the fact that he and Lucy help many couples in distress. “Lucille and I used to fight a lot," says he. "Then we discovered a sense of humor about situations that came up at home. We learned to live together and like it just as Ricky and Lucy do on the show. In real life, we still have our differences, but we never go to bed without speaking. We may have a peeve between us, but one of us will always say, 'All right What are you mad about? ' That either settles It or starts a real battle, which gets the beef off our chests." 

I wanted to know how much Lucy and Ricky resembled the real life Amazes. 

"A lot"  Desi laughed. "For example, we can never agree on the temperature of our home. I like it hot Lucy wants it cold. We put that In the show. For television the characters have to be exaggerated for the sake of comedy. But sometimes situations come up at home that give our writers ideas. For instance, our baby. Writing him into the script was completely natural. We knew what happened to couples expecting a baby."  

“It was the first nine-months' pregnancy that lasted only seven weeks," said Lucy, meaning that the baby business was only on seven programs. 

“And neither of our writers, Madeline Pugh and Bob Carroll Jr., is married," said Desi. 

"But they know whereof they write," said Lucy. "Within three weeks after the baby was born, we received 20,000 letters, 2,000 telegrams, and hundreds of packages.” 

"How many products do you indorse?" [sp] I asked. 

"It's easier to tell you what we haven't indorsed, [sp]" said Lucy. "We haven't indorsed [sp] locomotives or aircraft. We have art office now on 5th Avenue in New York just to handle merchandising." 

I asked how much money they could keep from their $8,000,000 contract.

"About four dollars and fifty-five cents," said Desi. "In the dear old days before taxes we could have retired for life In one year. But the government needs money. We're not complaining. Lucy doesn't have much business sense anyway. When it comes time to pay taxes, she doesn't bother trying to get exemptions. She just says, 'Bring me the check, and I'll sign it.' 

"And you're still expanding instead of cutting down?" I asked. 

"Yes," said Desi. "I put in 10 hours daily at my office." 

"I don't bother with business," said Lucy.  “That's Desi's department." 

“We've got over a hundred people working for us now," said Desi. "We'll do 32 television films a year, and I'm getting a man to take over the business management so I can devote more time to the creative phase of our work. We. plan to produce other shows. Then there are pictures." 

"I'm happy you two are going to make 'The Long, Long Trailer,' " I said. 

"That," said Desi, "is a dream. I read the book and tried to buy it But I didn't have the money to compete with Metro. So Pandro Berman called me up and asked if Lucy and I would be interested in reading the script I told him sure, to send it over. And It was 'Long, Long Trailer.” 

"It's a honey," added Lucy. "I once lived with my family in a trailer. It was all right until we all got claustrophobia. That's bad enough when you get it alone, but when it hits a whole family at the same time whew!" 

"We can make pictures any time we like," said Desi "But we'll concentrate on television. But if either Lucy or I wants to do a movie, we can always pile up a backlog of TV films that will tide us over." 

"I'm not particularly interested in going back to movies," said Lucy. "TV is my dish. We don't see a script at least I don't until 10 o'clock Monday morning. On Tuesday, we read from 10 to 12, then lunch. After that we start shooting. The writers usually aren't even on the set If I don't understand something, either the producer, Jess Oppenheimer, or our director, Bill Asher, explains it to me. We work four days and rest three. You cant do that in picture-making.” 

"Incidentally, Desi's malapropisms aren't written into the script. The script is written in straight English. But If Desi butchers the King's English during a rehearsal, it stays in." 

"Bill Frawley and Vivian Vance are wonderful additions to your cast," I said.

"We were lucky to get them," said Lucy. "When Bill's name was mentioned, I almost dropped dead. He was a big star and we couldn't afford him. But somebody said it wouldn't hurt to try to get him. Remember this was two years ago; and everybody here was scoffing at TV. Nobody knew." 

People didn't know many things. For years I've watched Lucy's work and considered her one of our finest comediennes. She has versatility and great timing. But nobody gave her break. Tho he'd done several pictures, Hollywood just couldn't see Desi for dust. He had to make a living with his band, and this put him on the road for long periods. Result: "I Love Lucy." 

"When we got the idea for the show, people said audiences wouldn't accept us as husband-and-wife team," said Lucy. "They didn't think audiences would believe that a girl like me and a Cuban like Desi could be married. I remember telling you this, Hedda, and you yelled back, 'But for Pete's sake, you' are married!'". 

Because the Amazes finally decided to portray life as they found It regardless of how dizzy it was, they found their way of life, says Lucy. "If you have a hunch, back it," is Lucy's advice.

The headline of April 26, 1953. 

#Chicago Tribune #Hedda Hopper #Lucille Ball #I Love Lucy #Desilu #Grafic Magazine #TV #1953

[szopenhauer]

Are you the type of person who gets straight to the point?: I try my best to explain things but ppl still don’t understand the obvious

What was the last thing you said in complete caps?: not sure what was last

Do you enjoy playing board games?: some

Did you wear anything new today?: pineapple shirt my mom bought for me recently

Do you ever eavesdrop on people’s conversations?: hard not to when they’re so loud

Are you good at playing Hide and Go Seek?: I was because I’m tiny XD

Who or what made you smile last?: my thoughts 

What was the last song you had on repeat?: Daisy by Ashnikko :x

Do you often have that song on repeat?: no that was one time only lol  I hardly ever have a son on repeat, that happened like 5 times in my entire life, usually after breakup

Silly string or confetti?: fun but too messy and waste of money so none

How long is your favorite song?: about 3.50

What was the highlight of your day today?: it’s complicated

Do you tap your foot when you listen to music?: I tap but mostly due to anxiety ^^”

Would you rather use tape or glue?: tape 

Homemade or store bought cards?: store bought 

Do you listen to any hip hop?: nah

How about some lyrics?: I'm tired of weakness Tired of my feet of clay I'm tired of days to come I'm tired of yesterday And all the worn out things that I ever said Now it's much too late The words stay in my head (...) I'm tired of Facebook Tired of my failing health I'm tired of everyone And that includes myself Well being alone now It doesn't bother me But not knowing if you are That's been hell you see 

Have you ever had a fascination with stickers? slightly

Have you ever seen A Walk To Remember? yeah Did you ever watch Captain Planet? I did Do you think that Uggs are ugly? I love them Have you ever watched That ‘70’s show? meh Do you get along with your sibling’s friends? we don’t know each other Do you have a fashion icon? sorta, not really Do you think that iCarly is annoying? possibly

Have you ever had a really bad haircut? sadly

What are your favorite type of calendars? pocket?  Could you spend hours on pinterest? just a couple of minutes  Have you ever had to wear a school uniform? I liked that Who were your best friends in high school? K.K. E.E. E.W. Ż.B.

Would you rather sleep on the top bunk or bottom bunk? bottom Have you ever had a secret admirer that left you notes? I got a note in elementary, it’s a mystery to this day, I thought that it’s a response from M.N. after I left him one myself but it seemed to be a prank done by girls who’ve been bullying me so I threw that piece of paper angrily at him like it was his fault - I still kinda remember what was written on it, they called me a flower and left a tiny drawing - later, forgot how, I found that note again and I believe I might still have it stored somewhere  What was your favorite thing to do at sleepovers when you were younger? as a kid I had 1 sleepover (same school in which the note situation happened) my friend P.W. had puppies and I was allowed to stay for the night in her house Do you currently live in the city you grew up in? mhm What’s one way in which you’re behind the times? ex. getting a job  What’s one way in which you’re still a child? ex. collecting stuffed animals, lots What’s one way in which you’re old? ex. health issues Do you feel old or young? Or do you feel both at different times? both at different times What would be the best surprise you could receive right now? money? Do you usually forgive when someone hurts your or try to get revenge? neither, I hold grudge and don’t trust the person again, at least for a long time  Were there any subjects in school that were really easy for you? in primary most of them were, in middle school: polish, biology, chemistry and math and in high: russian, english, PE and physics (but I probably shouldn’t count it as we had it for a few months) Did you ever skip a grade or get held back a grade? - What time of day were you born? half past midnight, my mother asked me why I’m so lazy as for someone who was born on Saturday and I responded with - I was sleeping in and was late for Friday What is the best hairstyle you’ve ever had? can’t choose Do you think you look better with dyed hair or natural hair? I’m used to my color but I wouldn’t mind dyed hair Do you ever listen to Celtic music? me and John had a phase on that back in the day, I wish I remind the titles... Have you ever wanted to be a model, actress, singer, or dancer? actress When you look at your baby pictures, do you recognize yourself? pfft Has your hair color changed since you were a toddler? got darker, less red  Do you wear matching socks? always but recently I thought about changing that fact Do you have a seashell collection? Do you have a rock collection? small Flamingos or pineapples? both Cacti or seashells? same but it’s harder to take care of cacti than shells haha Maple tree or palm tree? palm, ppl say maple looks like weed - I don’t think this way but that’s annoying, still I’d prefer maple trees irl!  Dreamcatcher or wind chimes? wind chimes but not every kind Have you ever taken a picture at the perfect moment? <3

Are you a pyromaniac? Bu is :P Are you a kleptomaniac? wtf Do you like to wear belts? it’s uncomfy and not good for my belly Would you ever get dreadlocks? I could but I won’t Do you listen to Eminem? no way

Does your sibling have a significant other? my sister is married 

When and why is the last time you cried (or at least, shed tears)? yesterday?

Have you ever cried at a real wedding? not that I been to many but no

What do your flipflops look like? don’t own any

Are there any gadgets of yours that need charging right now? my cellphone is charging

Which awards show would you wanna go to the most (e.g Oscars, Grammys etc.)? I wanna go to MET gala, nothing else

Any idea what time you’ll be going to bed tonight? late

Does your significant other like the same colour as you do? she hates my fav colors besides black 

Have you ever purchased anything online? obvi

Name all your friends whose name starts with the 4th letter of your first name. ...

Have you ever ridden an elephant? I’d like to (and camel and an ostrich and a horse)

Are you the candle lighting type? am not

Coffee in the morning, yay or nay? nay

Anal sex, yay or nay? hell no

Blue lipstick, yay or nay? okay, whatever

Is this question lame: “Have you had sex?” yep

Have you ever dated someone with really crooked teeth? mine are crooked

Would you rather vacation on the beach, or in the mountains? beach What embarrassing music do you listen to? too embarassed to write down? What’s your biggest talent? talented? me? r u kidding?

If you were a candy bar, what would you be? Milky Way? Would you rather ride in a hot air balloon or hang-glide? air balloon What’s one word you want people to use to describe you? truth is most important, everything else is less 

Did you often read for fun when you were a kid? tons of books

Are you more of a visual learner or an auditory learner? I learn best with my hands (kinesthetic) but visual is probably easier than auditory to me 

Do you have any dietary restrictions? ugh...

Do you prefer Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze, or something else? I get lost no matter what

How old does someone have to be for you to see them as an adult? about my age or older

Do you ever ‘manspread’ when you sit down? sorry but I don’t sit like a lady - I sit like a lesbian unless there’s no space for that

When was the last time you were in a crowded place, and where was it? bus this day

Have you ever turned down a job offer? had to

What was the last medical appointment you scheduled? scheduled plenty at once

Have you ever had a dream in which you died? I die often, it’s a common element in my dreams, I’m fine with it by now

Have you ever fallen asleep on public transport?  oh well... majority of those times I was able to but once it was an accident and I missed my stop while going to school

Can you touch your toes without bending your knees? almost Have you seen all the Hunger Games films? yasss Why did you last go see a doctor? control visit about my IBS, GERD, food intolerances... Are you more logical or creative? depends

What do you currently hear? parents talking, music - iamamiwhoami; shadowshow 

Did you get enough sleep last night? I slept a little over 3 hours and I feel tired  Are the streetlights on? it’s not dark yet When you wear a hoodie, do you pull the sleeves over your hands? when it’s warm for that or they bother me in what I’m doing Are you in any advanced classes at school? w moim profilu miałam rozszerzone historię i WOK (wiedza o kulturze) Did you have a good day today? it wasn’t the worst (compared) and hope it won’t turn into complete shit 

[raisingsupergirl]

A Daydream In Defense of Classical Education: Love the Lord Your God With all Your Solid, Liquid, Gas, and Plasma

LentWatch 2020, Week One: Freedom!

Change is hard. Breaking habits is harder. And breaking habits without accountability is the hardest, which is probably why I've already "failed" at my personal Lent goals by snacking after dinner (c'mon, it was just a few cookies… and some meat-n-cheese… and some chips). But despite realizing my limits and having to drop that one goal, I've held strong to the rest (which you can read about by clicking here), and the results have been like a long sigh after months of holding my breath.

At first, I felt a little lost. Especially regarding social media and YouTube videos. It's amazing how we, in the 21st century, have lost the ability to sit idle. Every spare moment is taken up by checking our phones. Waiting at doctor's offices, going to the bathroom, five-second pauses in friendly conversation—they all fall victim to Instagram notifications, leaving no room for actual thought. And I almost forgot the joy of such idleness before I gave these little things up. And that, combined with cutting television down to a minimum and alcohol down to zero, has made way for that glorious thing that used to be so condemned by teachers and parents: daydreaming!

Now, one can't just cut out all entertainment cold turkey. I'm not even convinced that a human can survive on work and sleep alone. There must be some in-between where we recharge and enjoy pleasures of our own choosing. And so, instead of Facebook and Netflix and beers, I've been reading—at night, mostly, but also in the morning, and even a little during the day. As I said in my previous post, I started re-reading Celebration of Discipline. But I'm also reading The Book of Revelation, The Time Machine, and a creative young adult trilogy called The Illuminae Files. I've never been one to read multiple things at one time, but gosh, it seems like my mind has been hungry for too long, and now it's chowing down. And with the glut of all these stories and ideas, I'm finding that I pause every page or so to just think.

What am I thinking about? All kinds of stuff! For example, why water can't (typically) get hotter than 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Or why an open refrigerator will actually heat a room. Or whether Einstein was wrong about exceeding the speed of light. Or why four separate books of the Bible seem to disagree about how to love God (and thus, what it means to be human). You know, normal stuff.

WARNING: What follows is some serious musing and rambling. If you're strapped for time or are easily irritated by random details, skip to the last paragraph. You'll have no idea what the title of this post means, but hey, I'm not sure I really know, so…

Now, if you haven't checked out, you're probably just intrigued enough to wonder if I've completely lost it. But it may surprise you to know that all of the thoughts I listed above are quite related. And I never would have had them (or their subsequent "higher" questions) if I hadn't "wasted" tens of thousands of dollars on a bunch of classes that I "didn't need" in college. I would have just read the books I listed earlier with interest, and then I would have moved on with my life. But, you see, there are things that bind us—things that connect us to art, literature, history, architecture, mathematics, science, religion, and back to art again. And, for me at least, the more I fill in the gaps between these elements of the human experience, the more I appreciate it all.

I get that not everyone is like me. I get that most people are happy to learn a craft—become an expert, even—work at that craft, leave a legacy, and catch the last episode of their favorite TV shows. And that's the way it's always been. I mean, not everyone in ancient Greece was a philosopher. Not everyone in the Middle Ages received a classical education. But there may have been soldiers and peasants who would have enjoyed the experience had they been given the opportunity. And I, for one, am one of those peasants.

As I've said in previous posts, my young life was characterized by impulsiveness, which culminate in the idea that, "I should go to college and become a physical therapist." I just kind of had the idea one day, so I did it. I resonate with Elle Woods (from Legally Blonde) when she applied to Harvard Law School and said, "What, like it's hard?" Now, of course college was hard (and PT school was much more so), but I enjoyed it. All of it. Even the classes that I didn't need to take: philosophy, freshman English (in which I learned only about Little Red Riding Hood in all of her iterations throughout history…), physics, Old Testament studies, American history. Learning to enjoy education was a slow burn, and it definitely didn't peak until college. If I'd have followed my first inclinations as a senior in high school, I would have joined the military or the police academy, and I would have had a fulfilling career in either (likely with a more impactful contribution to society), but I never would have understood the universe in the way that I do now. And that would have been a real shame.

But I did go to college, and I did rack up student loans (which I'm scheduled to pay off this spring!). And I did come close to what could be called a classical education, which laid the foundation for me to continue to learn, grow, and connect thoughts and ideas into new and creative concepts… some of which are kind of insane, like the one's I mentioned above, which I will now explain briefly (but only if you see the dragon in this picture I took below. Why? Because it’s awesome, and if you don’t see it, you’re not worthy--aka weird enough--to continue):

Thanks to the books I'm reading in tandem—along with plenty of breaks spent daydreaming in idle, wandering thought—I've dredged up an old fascination of mine: Why is the Great Commandment represented in four different ways in the Bible? "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." That's how the author of Deuteronomy puts it. But then when the verse is quoted by Jesus thousands of years later, Matthew, Mark, and Luke all put it in slightly different terms: "heart, soul, and mind," "heart, soul, mind, and strength," and "heart, soul, strength, and mind," respectively. Now, I realize the differences are subtle, and Mark and Luke both say the same things in a different order, but they are different. And when the essence of the phrase is, "Love God with everything you have," it's easy to wonder if these components make up everything it means to be human. And further research into the original languages in which these phrases were written sheds some light onto the discrepancy: English (and Greek, for that matter) doesn't have the words to describe the original Hebrew text, so slight variations are represented based on who's writing it and in what language.

But the intrigue remains. What does make up a human? And the answer, for someone like me (OCD, science-minded, Christian foundation), it's clear that we're bound together by a multifaceted system, like the Holy Trinity or the Four States of Matter. And so, if we take the States of Matter approach, what if our strength (bones, muscles, tendons) is akin to "solids," our heart (hormones, neurotransmitters, basic emotions) is akin to "liquids," our mind (cortical thought, short-term memories, self-awareness) is akin to "gas," and our soul (that ethereal, immortal morality not bound to social constructs or genetic influence) is akin to "plasma?" And so, such extrapolation (i.e. going down the Wikipedia rabbit hole) naturally leads to all sorts of allegory and thought puzzles. Oh, what fun it is to dream!

LAST PARAGRAPH BELOW FOR NORMAL PEOPLE:

Like I said, cutting the distractions from my day has allowed me to get back to the things that bring me true joy: quiet contemplation, purposeful living, and totally normal ideas about what it means to be human. Week one has been a success. I'm thankful for the money I "wasted" on my education because it's made me the man I am today, and I'm thankful for Lent because, even though I will inevitably fail at some of it, my ultimate victory will be remembering who I am as a man (which, apparently, boils down to the various states of matter…). So, thanks for reading, y'all. You could have been doing a bunch of other things (and you probably wish you had), but hopefully my rambling forced you to have at least one thought of your own.

And maybe, just maybe, that thought will lead to a daydream…

#lent #lent 2020 #science and religion #science #states of matter #great commandment #daydream #daydreaming #free thinker #amreading #classical education #legally blonde #like it's hard

[tie-me-up-velez]

Tag Challenge

I was tagged by @lavanyas04 ily :’)

Rules: you have to answer all the questions and tag 10 friends after you've finished.

How tall are you? 5’6” (i.e. taller than Rich & Erick in heels 😌)

What style and color is your hair? Straightish, medium-length, and brown 🤷‍♀️

What color are your eyes? Brown

Do you wear glasses? Nope

Do you have braces? If Invisalign can fix Erick’s teeth it can fix mine too ✊

What is your fashion sense? Forever 21 + Target lol. I like to call it “lazy femme” - I love feminine looks (skirts, dresses, heels, colorful clothes) but don’t put a whole lot of effort into my style

When were you born? May 1, 2000

Where are you from and where do you live? I’m from the Washington DC area but go to school in LA!

What school do you go to? A pretty good one if I do say so myself 😉 (check the rankings hehe)

What kind of student are you? I plan out when I’m going to do all of my work but I wouldn’t say I’m super organized, I do well but in a chill way. I love learning about things I’m interested in !!

Do you like school? I love learning about things I’m interested in! So generally yes :)

Favorite subject? Throughout school it was math, now it’s mostly social sciences stuff

How many languages do you speak? English and Spanish (with some degree of fluency lol)

Favorite show(s)? DOCTOR WHO, Rebelde, Grey’s Anatomy (no spoilers I’m not caught up), Downton Abbey, Grace and Frankie

Favorite book(s)? The Straight Road to Kylie by Nico Medina is an all-time favorite, less because it’s fantastic literature and more because it’s gay and involves Kylie :’) I also adore everything written by Adam Silvera and Benjamin Alire Sáenz, and will always have a special connection to Cheryl’s autobiography

Do you have any regrets? I make it a principle to live without regrets. Everything happens for a reason and I’ve learned (or am learning) from the things that have gone wrong

Dream job? Anything where I get to a) help people, b) write creatively, or c) be involved with music. I’m kinda wide open

Do you want to get married? I’m a hoe for love and romance so yes ma’am

Do you want to have children? If so, how many? I’m not super great with kids but I do like the idea of having like...1...if it’s with the right person

Do you like going shopping? I like having new clothes and stuff but I hate spending money and I hate trying on clothes lmao

What’s the scariest nightmare you’ve ever had? I honestly can’t remember one in particular um idk

What countries have you visited? UK, Ireland (barely - funny story there), and Perú (best experience of my life)

Do you believe in miracles? I believe in something, could be miracles, I’m not really sure what

How are you? I’ve had a really rough past month or so but I’m getting better little by little. Today’s been okay

I’m tagging: @alexmariesblog and whoever else wants to do it hehe

[morganeuk]

The Doctor & the Librarian. (Sherlock AU)

Part 3: The British Government interferes

(Read Part 1: Kissing is not required on Tumblr)

(Read Part 2: Brainy is the new sexy on Tumblr)

Summary: Sherlock, academic librarian at Oxford, talked with an interesting doctor from London on the library help line... He don't know what to do next and founds it difficult to understand his feelings when his brother decides to visit him. But, thanks God, Lestrade gives him the occasion to escape the discussion!

It was early in the morning and Sherlock hadn't slept at all since he came back from the university. Usually, his thoughts are focused on a particularly hard research question or the creation of a complex database schema needed at work.  His job at Oxford, assisting creative and gifted researchers and professors, most of the time was rewarding, and it was easy to get immersed in an overload of projects. To banish the constant boredom, to avoid reaching for drugs as an easy answer

But as of last night, no need for external stimulation! His mind was focused on one thing only: Doctor John Watson.  When the doctor contacted the helpline three days ago, it was like if someone had thrown him a life jacket. Like he was finally able to fully absorb the oxygen around him! And it wasn't planned at all, a mere coincidence... Even if he does not like to work in the library, with regular ordinary people, he must do it when nobody else is available. Usually, his non-verbal attitude is clear enough that nobody asks questions, except the few giggling girls or cocky boys who ask if he wants to go for a beer after his shift, and he can work on his project. 

That night, to avoid a discussion with an insistent suitor that clearly not understand the meaning of 'bugger off', he uses the excuse of a call on the helpline. It was that or killing the stupid man in front of him! 'You're one hot librarian, I would like to check you out!' Come on! And what's with all the winking? Does he need an ophthalmologist? He's not supposed to reply to the helpline requests, the head librarian has received too many complaints about him, but it was an emergency!  

And his world has suddenly shifted because of one of Bart's finest: Dr John Watson.

Sherlock found his name less than five minutes after their first exchange. It was easy, a doctor, probably between thirty and forty-five, John, working in an ICU in London... but then at the end of the conversation he gives his real phone number! A phone number is as good as a social security number when you know where to look... Once his identity is clarified, more information appears. Ex-military, Afghanistan, unattached, a blog full of... emptiness. Probably an idea of his therapist. His life turning solely around his work. What's so special about him? That was the question that kept Sherlock awake all night. 

What's so special about him?

The log of the first and second conversations they had was printed in front of him.  He had to delete them from the system as it was too... personal. He read over the few times, adding them to his Mind Palace in a brand new room simply named: John. The will to help a patient that wasn't even his, the quirkiness of the discussion, the genuine amazement when he deduces him. He said that it was fantastic... Nobody has ever said things like that to me... His openness, the suggestion that they meet in London someday!

Sherlock was realistic and knew that the invitation was only made because of the excitement of discovering the disease he was looking for. He looks objectively at the transcript of the first conversation and nothing that he said could be considered the basis of romantic interest from the doctor. But... he came back! After 2 days of trying to forget the beautiful man, he finds pictures!, Sherlock begs for a night shift in the reading room. A few ridiculous questions later, including if it's best to sleep with her legs up while trying to conceive a baby; HIS doctor was there. To talk with him. Only to talk with HIM! He seems to understand the appeal of his job, was thankful for his help in solving his problem and was openly flirting. Openly, confidently, effectively flirting. Sherlock was lost for words and after he closes the chat window couldn't resist and... texts him his name.

His name, unique as it was, it was certain that John would be able to find him on the Internet (He knows he's the only Sherlock in the UK!). What should I do now? Should I contact him or let him take the first step? Maybe he won't like what he finds on the web? His brother regularly cleans his records to avoid any unsavoury surprises but a few of his articles are available in open access journals, his blogs about data mining and the science of deduction are accessible to all, but due to his brother's line of work, no pictures of him have ever stayed on the Internet more than a few hours.

Maybe I should send him a picture of me? Is this 'online dating'? How does it work? Oh God, this is killing me! It's Saturday, I don't go to work on Saturday... But I can't dream about this doctor all days! It's driving me mad! His phone rings on the coffee table and he jumps quickly to get it. If lucky, it's Lestrade with a murder investigation! Blah... It's only Mycroft. Ending the call, he opens the text app instead.

What do you want? -SH

You know I prefer to talk -MY

Yes -SH

So you're doing it on purpose only to annoy me. It's childish -MY

Sue me. What do you want? I don't have all day! -SH

As Sherlock was going in the kitchen to put the kettle on, someone knocks at the door.  For God sakes... "Go. Away!!"

The door opens and an impeccable Mycroft walks inside the small flat. "Good morning Brother mine." The imperious glare of the Government official surveys the room.  The few computers, print out of codes and parameters. Newspapers and journals everywhere. A pile of Lestrade's now resolved cold cases... "I can deliver those to NSY if you want, on my way back." The older Holmes proposes.

Sherlock, English to a fault, put a second teacup for his brother on the countertop. "What do you want, Mycroft? You're not in Oxford,  on a Saturday morning, for nothing."

"I'm only here because I care for you... and Mummy asked me to check on you." He shakes his head, thinking about their overprotective mother. "She's worried about you, constantly. Being all alone here." And so am I...

"You can tell her that I'm doing great. I haven't put anything 'recreational' in my body for nearly two years!" He drinks his tea with a stern look. "So you can leave now." He points his long fingers in the direction of the door.

"It's not the only thing I want to talk to you about..." Why is this always so complicated? "I know that you seem to love your job as a librarian, and though we were thrilled when you decided to finally do something with your chemistry degree and go on with a Masters in IS, I would like you to consider a position with me, in London." Sherlock was still listening, even if he did not acknowledge his brother's words. "Or if you don't want to work with me, I can arrange for you to become a full-time consultant with NSY." Still not a word from Sherlock... How can he waste his talents like this! It's not that what he is doing is unimportant, but someone else can do it.  Less effectively perhaps, but with similar results! "Sherlock! Say something!"

"Are you finished?" He rises from the chair he was sitting. "First of all, I don't seem to love my job, I really do love it. Second, I went back to complete my university for myself and not to 'thrill' anyone else.  Third,  I would never ever work under your orders. And lastly, I don't need you to coerce the NSY as Lestrade asks me regularly to come to work with him on cases more than I used to." He turns his back on his brother and simply states. "Now, leave."

Getting up and playing suavely with his umbrella, Mycroft can't restrain himself and replies softly, as an afterthought, "But in London, you may find interesting things... people..." He looks at his phone to confirm the name of the man. "A Doctor John Watson, for example."  He knows it is a cheap shot, but sometimes it's the only things that work! Something big is brewing and he needs his brother in London, whatever the cost.

"What are you talking about, brother mine?" Sherlock's voice was now cold as ice. "I know that you are checking on me nearly 24/7 but I don't understand how you could considerate that man, unknown to me, as  leverage to get me back in London."

"You're far too easy to read, Sherlock, sentiment... Always sentiment... You wrote to him about why you like your job, you falsely admit having ADHD instead of turning him off by announcing with a flourish that you're a high functioning sociopath." Mycroft's eyes locked on Sherlock's. "You voluntarily  went to work in the reading room, which you hate, in the hope he would contact you again." Knowing he was getting the upper hand of his younger brother, he concludes, "And you gave him your name and your phone number.  Tell me brother, how many phone numbers do you have in your directory? Besides our parents', Lestrade's and mine?"

Sherlock was looking at his brother with disgust. How can a man have any hope of getting a love life if the British Government interferes! His phone chimes, a text from Lestrade.

Are you available? I need help with something... - GL

The fake suicides? - SH

Yes... got another one. -GL

Giving his brother an unreadable smile, Sherlock gives him a cup of tea. "Wait for me while I'm getting dressed, I need a lift."

"I'm always happy to use my chauffeur as your cab driver... Where do you need to go?"

From the bathroom, Sherlock responses loudly, "London!"

With a satisfactory smirk, Mycroft Holmes considers once more how irreplaceable DI Gregory Lestrade is.

Read the rest of the story here! http://archiveofourown.org/series/770607

#johnlock #AU #playing with old stuff instead of writing my WIP

[tartantardis]

Producer Derek was having the time of his life

(One of the strangest experiences I’ve had was interviewing an old friend about Doctor Who. Derek Ritchie was a pal of mine in the Glasgow Doctor Who group in the late 90s, so I was delighted when he started work on the show. The interview appeared in the Ayrshire Post, which I was editor of at the time,  and appeared on 23 October 2015!)

Troon man Derek Ritchie is getting ready to have his work scrutinised the world over this weekend.

The 37-year-old has produced four episodes of the current run of Doctor Who, with his final episode being screened this Saturday, the sixth in the current 12 episode series.

Derek, a former pupil of Marr College, studied Film and Television, and English Literature at Glasgow University, before pursuing a career in television, which has seen him work on shows including Taggart, Being Human, and Wizards vs Aliens, the latter which he produced in 2014.

Last year, he told the Ayrshire Post how he had enjoyed working on Doctor Who’s 50th anniversary special, as well as Matt Smith’s final story as the Time Lord, before  handing over the TARDIS key to Peter Capaldi. It was a dream come true for Derek, a former member of the Glasgow Doctor Who fan group.

But this year, he has been responsible for bringing the four episodes - Under the Lake, Before the Flood, The Girl Who Died and The Woman Who Lived - to the screen, and the Ayrshire Post met with Derek at BBC Wales in Cardiff last week.

He said: “I was just finishing up on series three of Wizards vs Aliens when Brian Minchin, the Doctor Who executive producer, asked to meet me, and offered me two blocks of Doctor Who. That’s how simple it was!

“Wizards had gone down well and he knew how much I loved the show, and I had worked as script editor on it before going on to produce.

“I’d proved myself as a producer of the genre.”

With Doctor Who having millions of fans all over the world, not just in the UK but countries as diverse as Australia, New Zealand, the USA, South Korea and Brazil, Derek’s work will be scrutinised by the show’s dedicated fans.

He explained that the producer’s job on Doctor Who is a complex one: “It’s incredible, mainly because you are the person in the middle of everything, coordinating the entire team with HoDs (Heads of Department), both creatively, financially and practically, and you have to bring these people together on a daily basis. It’s very intense because there’s so many factors involved in a programme like Doctor Who that you may not get in your common or garden drama.

“We are not just building one set at the start of the series, and that set does as was the precinct for the rest of it.

“Every block, we have big, new changes, which is what makes it such thrilling to work on, with great costume designers, makeup designers, a great designer and his team, the effects teams, CG (computer generated) teams, all those people, as well as the director and cast.

“You are constantly spinning a lot of plates, every day, and that’s what makes it such a delight. It’s not just the scale, but the creativity behind it, that keeps everything fresh and exciting.”

Derek’s four episodes have been divided into two blocks, with stories being thematically linked.

His first two episodes were set in an undersea base in Scotland in the future, while the second batch are set in the past.

He said: “I was very lucky as my two blocks are extremely different - the first was a sci-fi story very focussed within particular set builds, two great new monsters we got to concept up from scratch, and had four weeks in studio and one week on location.

“The next block is two back-to-back historical episodes, almost completely on location, with all the different logistics that come with that: again designing two brand new monsters from the ground up, working with a different director and whole lot of other aspects because it’s historical. It’s most about the locations than the sets.

“We are up against discovering new ways to achieve things. We’re very ambitions, but don’t have a lot of time. We’ve got a good budget, but not a vast budget, and the amibition always pushes it to the absolute limit. That’s what keeps the show fresh. That’s the big joy of the job.”

Derek was able to have a bit of impact into his first story, by having the story set in a military base underneath a loch in Caithness. He laughed: “It wasn’t really a coincidence. Initially, it didn’t have a setting. It was never described in the script, so I cheekily suggested Scotland!

“It wasn’t a coincidence because I made it that way, and everyone said, ‘yes, I’m sure there’s glens in Scotland that could flood, so that will work’.

Doctor Who’s fans are famously possessive of their show, and are very active on social media. Derek admits that he’s been delighted by their response to the episodes he’s produced so far.

“It’s been absolutely amazing. We knew the first was was a more traditional adventure, with Under the Lake, and weren’t quite sure how people would repond to that because (showrunner) Steven Moffat’s opener, which was so big and mythic (featuring classic villains the Daleks, Davros and the Master) in its ambitions.

“It was such a joy to make and it comes through on the screen.

“Daniel O’Hara, the director, is fantastic and invested in it - we pushed it as far as we could.

“People really liked that change of pace, going from the more traditional into something very modern (in the next episode), when we did things like break the fourth wall, and then have a rock version of the theme tune.

“We played around with it, and the audience have really responded to it. It’s an absolute pleasure.

“For me, to make Doctor Who is a dream come true. People loving it is incredible.

“You make a TV show and the audience respond to it. That’s the only reason we do it, for people to engage with the storytelling, and enjoy it.

“For better or for worse, Doctor Who is a show people which will always be vocal about about. I say for better or worse because, if they don’t like it, you will hear about it. If they do like it, you will hear about it, which is glorious - so far, I’ve only had the nice part of it!

“It’s been an absolute joy to have a happy and responsive audience!”

However, Derek’s busy workload has had one downside.

He laughs: “I’m not back often enough, my  parents would say! I only come back every now and again. I do miss it, greatly, but Doctor Who has kept me so busy in Cardiff, but I’m going to be back over Christmas.”

#DoctorWho #PeterCapaldi #DerekRitchie #Cardiff #Troon #Ayrshire

[femnet]

Confession: I’m afraid of dying. Or I used to be. Maybe it’s because I used to wonder if I was. It all started when I was in my early 20s and I’d have these episodes while sleeping- an alarm bell would go off in my head and I would suddenly jolt up out of bed, gasping for breath, my body half numb, my heart pounding.

Doctors told me it was just anxiety, which in some cases, it is. But I knew in my heart that it wasn’t normal for me. I was the most laid-back, ce la vie person that I knew. I never had a panic attack in my life. But just in case, they convinced me to take antidepressants. Needless to say, they didn’t work.

For several years, I was able to ignore the symptoms. They were vague and would come and go. I told myself I was just out of shape. After all, I used to be a competitive swimmer who swam for hours every day and now I was so busy with work that I only worked out a few times a week. I might feel dizzy and short of breath after a workout one day and feel fine the next. Dehydration, maybe? But I drank water like a mermaid. Weeks later, I would feel weak in my left arm. I went to the neurologist. Then, it was my left jaw. I saw a dentist. I had lung tests for shortness of breath. The pulmonologist said my lungs were clear and my lung capacity was higher than average, probably due to being an athlete.

However, in my 30s, when I started feeling dizzy and faint after lifting a heavy object or leisurely walking around Target for thirty minutes, I started to get scared. I made a few trips to the ER, but the doctors and nurses did not seem worried. My EKG was normal. My blood pressure and heart rate were optimal. X-ray and blood work were stellar. I was just another healthy young woman who worried too much about her health. But just to alleviate my fears and to be prudent, they conducted a plethora of tests: a holtor monitor for palpitations, a tilt test for dizziness, echocardiogram, nuclear stress echo on a treadmill. I passed them all with flying colors. “Good news!” they would say. “It can’t possibly be your heart!” I tried to feel relieved, but the symptoms never went away. And since no one believed me, I suffered in silence.

As a woman, I am NOT alone in my experiences with the healthcare system. It turns out, women really are from Venus. We are just as unique chemically as we are in every other way and we have been historically misdiagnosed and underdiagnosed. There are many more of us out there doubting ourselves. I’ve read too many documented cases and verified studies about women who died too soon or too young because their symptoms were dismissed or misdiagnosed as anxiety or stress by their doctors. Why? It isn’t because doctors don’t care about women. It’s because medicine is not a perfect science. There are still so many things that we still don’t know about our bodies and most diagnostic tests have been tested on men. Therefore, women have to be the experts of their own bodies. We have to be own advocates.

Finally, last year, at the of 36, I could not ignore my symptoms any longer. I was a high school English as a Second Language teacher and I had to walk up 3 flights of stairs every day to get to my classroom, leaving me exhausted, nauseous and dizzy all day long. I would have to fake normalcy with my coworkers and students when secretly I felt like I was a ticking time bomb. I would spend my lunch breaks crying, checking my pulse and obsessively googling my symptoms. I eventually had to quit my job and dedicate myself full time to finding a diagnosis. Now, I can finally say that I’m on the right track.

The greatest relief came when I realized I wasn’t going crazy. All of my independent research finally led me to find more patient stories like mine. I found a support group of (mostly) women, some my age or even younger, with negative tests, no risk factors or family history, but persisting symptoms. It turns out that our main arteries are clear, but we have a dysfunction in our tiniest vessels, which can lead to a chronic lack of blood flow to the heart, a condition now known as microvascular disease. Unfortunately, it is difficult to diagnose as it is difficult to detect with conventional to test. Not only is it difficult to diagnose, but also difficult to treat. However, as more and more is becoming understood about the mechanisms behind it, (some experts believe it is an autoimmune or inflammatory response or genetic disorder), doctors are able to help us manage our symptoms to prevent future problems like heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.  

Contrary to popular belief, heart disease is the leading killer of women of all ages. Women are more likely than men to have heart symptoms or even a heart attack despite having clear main arteries. Women are also more likely to die before, during, and after their first heart attacks. I’m not saying this to scare you. Knowledge is power and women are the best experts of their own bodies. If your doctor says you’re fine, but that little voice tells you that something just isn’t right, seek a second opinion. And a third. If it weren’t for the women in my Facebook support group, I would never have found a specialist for microvascular disease. He is one of only a few in the country. I am crossing my fingers for a definitive diagnosis in February.

But even without one, I know I’ll be okay. I have good days and bad days. I have a support system of friends all over the world. I’ll keep on living and searching for answers and ways to adjust to my evolving situation. I am more in tune with my body and I know my limits. I’m now more comfortable living in a state of “unknown”,  which has helped me cope with living and the idea of dying. Life is precious. I don’t put off my dreams, but I also take one day at a time. I listen to my body instead of the advice of others. I allow myself to be lazy some days. I try not to feel guilty when I have to cancel plans. I try not to care what other people think. I’m kind to myself.

As a teacher and life long learner, my experience has become more intriguing to me than depressing. I’ve chosen to make lemonade from these lemons. I feel like a living, breathing science experiment. I do have some control over what I choose to do from now on. And although this condition limits me in physical ways, it has also put me on the path I am today. It’s made me love science and medicine. Made me live more deliberately and choose a healthier lifestyle. It’s made me more creative. Adaptable. Resourceful. Determined. I’m now teaching English online to kids all over the world. I’ve also started my own blog, something that’s been a goal of mine for years, but I never had the time when I was teaching in the classroom full-time.

I am not very religious, or even very spiritual (although I try to be), but this experience has made me consider the existence of fate and a higher power. Maybe I was meant to be struck with this. Quit my classroom job. Write this article. Have you read it. Save a life.

#by rebecca #real life #medical #diagnosis #january 2019 #health and self care

[xwitches-gardenx]

Haven't done one of these in years!

01: Do you have a good relationship with your parents? I have a very good relationship with both of my parents

02: Who did you last say “I love you” to? My mum in hospital last night, when we were finally allowed to see her for 30 minutes after waiting 8 hours to even find out if she was alive.

03: Do you regret anything? I regret a lot of things. I'm my own worst critic. My biggest is probably that my mum probably won't be around to ever see me get married.

04: Are you insecure? Depends what about. Certain things. Yes

05: What is your relationship status? 100% single

06: How do you want to die? By book avalanche. It would just be incredibly ironic and exactly to my humour

07: What did you last eat? I can't actually remember :/. Oh egg mayo sandwiches

08: Played any sports? I did use to play yet. Netball, Hockey, Basketball and Athletics

09: Do you bite your nails? Yes, very bad habit of mine

10: When was your last physical fight? Years ago when I was at uni in Derby and this girl I hated who always had to be the centre of attention kept picking on me after my ex and I split up. She'd leave really nasty comments about me on his Myspace wall (lol remember that). She turned up at the same club as me so I punched her.

11: Do you like someone? Nope

12: Have you ever stayed up 48 hours? Pretty much since yesterday and today

13: Do you hate anyone at the moment? No

14: Do you miss someone? Yes my mum. I don't know when I'll get to see her in hospital again because of Covid restrictions

15: Have any pets? Not personally, but we have a family dog and cat

16: How exactly are you feeling at the moment? Anxious, uncertain, drained...mildly hopeful and numb

17: Ever made out in the bathroom? Home bathroom yes. Not out anywhere

18: Are you scared of spiders? Depends what size they are and if they're those fat fuckers or the skinny ones

19: Would you go back in time if you were given the chance? Can't think of anyone off the top of my head

20: Where was the last place you snogged someone? Snogged? What are we? 11. Probably a year ago

21: What are your plans for this weekend? I have no idea. I literally live my life day to day

22: Do you want to have kids? How many? No and 0

23: Do you have piercings? How many? Yes. I only have 5 now.

24: What is/are/were your best subject(s)? English and any Creative subject

25: Do you miss anyone from your past? I miss alot of people from my past

26: What are you craving right now? Something to eat but I dont know what

27: Have you ever broken someone’s heart? Probably

28: Have you ever been cheated on? yes

29: Have you made a boyfriend/girlfriend cry? yes

30: What’s irritating you right now? Coronavirus, because I cant see my mum

31: Does somebody love you? My parents??

32: What is your favourite color? Silver (?) dark blue

33: Do you have trust issues? To some extent because of how I've been treated in the past

34: Who/what was your last dream about? Shannon Leto :') (that's all I'm saying)

35: Who was the last person you cried in front of? My dad and a doctor

36: Do you give out second chances too easily? Not sure

37: Is it easier to forgive or forget? Forget

38: Is this year the best year of your life? No. Literally my worst

39: How old were you when you had your first kiss? 18

40: Have you ever walked outside completely naked? No

51: Favourite food? italian

52: Do you believe everything happens for a reason? Definitely. I've come to realise that more and more over the years

53: What is the last thing you did before you went to bed last night? Cried? I didnt really sleep

54: Is cheating ever okay? No

55: Are you mean? Can be, if someone deserves it

56: How many people have you fist fought? 1

57: Do you believe in true love? I'd like to think so, but from my experiences....it's unlikely

58: Favourite weather? When its warm and windy

59: Do you like the snow? Not as much as a kid, but yes.

60: Do you wanna get married? Yes

61: Is it cute when a boy/girl calls you baby? In private, not in public

62: What makes you happy? 30stm and books??

63: Would you change your name? No

64: Would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed? Yes coz I dont even talk to him anymore

65: Your best friend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do? Well it would depend how I felt about him. If i didnt have feelings for him, would have to tell him. If I liked him I'd discuss it with him and maybe give it a go

66: Do you have a friend of the opposite sex who you can act your complete self around? yes

67: Who was the last person of the opposite sex you talked to? My dad??

68: Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with? My dad and a doctor last night

69: Do you believe in soulmates? I like the notion of it. Whether it personally happens to me....no idea

70: Is there anyone you would die for? Yes.

[striped-commander]

Get to know me

Rules: Answer 20 questions then tag 20 (give or take) followers you wanna get to know better!

Stolen from: @nova-au​

Name:  SuperSayinMajinSheBuu/MajinSheBuu/Savannah

Nickname: Majin/Savy/Savs

Height: 4′11

Nationality: American

Favorite Fruit: Most melons. I’m allergic to apples.

Favorite Season: Autumn and Winter

Favorite Smell: The cologne my gf wears and the scent of Lilacs.

Favorite Color(s): Red and Black

Favorite Animal: Birds and Hedgehogs

Tea, Coffee, Hot Cocoa: I drink more coffee than I should, but I adore homemade Lipton sweet tea, and Hot cocoa made with milk and a bit of cinnamon.

Average Hours of Sleep: Sleep? What’s that? (0-4 due to nightmares most nights, but when I do manage to get decent sleep, I get a full 8)

Dogs or Cats: BIRDS!

Dream Trip: Uh... I have small dreams... Most of them involve going to States that are around mine, or to places like Ceder Point, since I’ve never been before. I think I’d like to visit Japan and Canada one day.

When my blog was created: UHHHHHHHHH... I may or may not remember this one... I made it a while ago... Maybe sometime last year or the year before, but it only recently became super active.

# of Followers: 13

Random Fact: Hedgehogs are immune to most poisons (set aside poisonous insects). They have a tendancy to eat things like chemicals, cigarettes, and other dangerous toxic things, then coat their spines in it. It’s not known whether they do this to remove pests from their quills, mask their scent, or to coat their spines in poison to deter predators. My personal guess is all three. 

Hedgehog saliva is also sticky.

You’re welcome.

Favorite Food: In terms of fast food, I like Subway. In terms of home-cooked meals, I like sloppy joes, and spaghetti. Chili dogs are also a fave.

Favorite TV show: I really like Sonic Underground (I’mnotobsessedshutup) and I watch anime sometimes. I grew up on Pokemon, and I’m currently marathoning Supernatural with my girl. I like House too.

Overall though, I don’t really watch TV. I really tend to stick to YouTube. In which case, I love Game Grumps, Markiplier, and Jacksepticeye.

Favorite Movie: That’s a tough one... I don’t really watch movies either... I think the movie I’ve watched most on repeat would be Sonic The Hedgehog OVA and I’ve watched Pokemon 2000 almost as much.

Favorite Vine: Anything by Tomas Sanders.

Sexuality: Pansexual

Gender: ALL! (Pangender)

Favorite Book Series: The IDW Sonic Comics are the only thing I’ve been really reading lately.

Favorite Video Game(s): Anything Sonic tops my list, obviously! But I really love Shadow The Hedgehog, Sonic Colors, and Sonic Generations to be more specific.

Favorite Subject: I used to be in college before mine got shut down. So I’ll go with my favorite from High School. I really loved World Mythology, Creative Writing and English.

Favorite Fandom(s): Sonic is the only fandom I obsessively subscribe to.

Favorite Superhero: Sonic? Does he count? He has super speed and he’s the Hero of Mobius. If not, well... Doctor Strange, Iron Man, Thor and Loki are awesome.

Guys or Girls: Well, I’m Pan... So, girls, guys, nonbinary, trans... I mean, my lovely gf is Ace. If you have a good personality, I’m game. (Tho I’m taken so...)

Celebrity crush: I love Tom Hiddleston, Ryan Reynolds, and a few others.

Last time I cried: Two days ago most of my day was crying :/

Hair Color: Red (Like a red-copper color. I don’t dye it)

Eye Color: A dark grey-blue, almost black, though the blue shows well in certain lighting.

What Should I Be Doing: Eating and drawing tbh.

Tagging 20 people: Do this if you want I guess? 

#((out of emeralds)) #about me #((my adhd makes me rambly and indescicive)) #((sorry its so long))

[rinnnyxr]

I LOVE…

Books. The outdoors. Clothes shopping. Finding good deals. Bike riding. Animals, especially cats. Exploring new places. Antiquing. Thrift shopping. Film photography. When someone takes me someplace new. Stargazing. Spending hours reading a book. Learning new languages, or just hearing them spoken. The Victorian era. Hot-tubbing. Trading music with friends. Going on hikes. Swimming in rivers/creeks/lakes/the ocean as opposed to swimming pools.

I DISLIKE… Hot and very humid weather. Driving in heavy, slow traffic. People who don’t realize how their actions affect others. Selfishness. When pets have “accidents” in the house. Bumper stickers like “Country Girl” or “Silly boys, trucks are for girls!” Politics in general. Feeling like I’m not in control of anything. People who treat everything I say as a joke. People who claim to be my friend and treat me badly. Twitter fights. Warm beer. Doing the dishes. Thistles. Feeling hopeless. That panic moment when I have no idea what I’m going to do for the rest of my life. How people still text and drive. Being broke. Not having a job.

SHOWS I LOVE… Doctor Who Breaking Bad Supernatural Pretty Little Liars True Blood Game of Thrones Top Gear UK Parks & Recreation The Office The Walking Dead

I WOULD LOVE TO VISIT… Iceland England Italy Montreal Marseilles The Alps Yellowstone National Park Machu Picchu Greece Ireland and Scotland

THINGS I’M NOT GOOD AT… Making big decisions. Making myself motivated. Exercising/working out. Dealing with hot weather. Controlling my temper in traffic. Keeping a regular “schedule” for chores. Not worrying about silly things. Tolerating other peoples’ irritating behaviors. Having a positive outlook on things that might turn out badly. Keeping friends. Sleeping in. Training pets to mind me. Managing my time. Mathematics. Makeup or other “beauty” related skills. Dealing with other peoples’ children. Being “politically correct.” Ignoring insults and not letting stupid things get to me. Being content.

GOALS THIS NEXT YEAR… Become physically fit. Get better grades in school. Find a better job. Start saving money again. Travel somewhere completely new. Make more/new friends. Spend less time with technology and more time outdoors/doing something productive. Start drawing/painting regularly again. Pick up a new hobby.

-

Bold all the things you've done: 1) You've gone skydiving. 2) You've kissed someone. 3) You've gone on a road trip. 4) You've gone streaking. 5) You've stayed up all night to watch the sun rise. 6) You've been on a roller-coaster. 7) You've been snorkeling. 8) You've been scuba-diving. 9) You've learned to play an instrument. 10) You've learned to speak another language. 11) You've fallen in love. 12) You've done something charitable. 13) You've purchased a physical CD and/or record. 14) You've been to Disneyland and/or Disney World. 15) You've been to a different country. 16) You've had a pet. 17) You've seen your favorite band/artist perform live. 18) You've done something crazy to your hair. 19) You've slept on a beach. 20) You've seen the Northern Lights.

21) You've wished upon a shooting star. 22) You've observed a solar eclipse. 23) You've learned something crazy and/or awesome about your family's history. 24) You've ordered everything on the menu at an amazing restaurant. 25) You've eaten at the best restaurant in the world. 26) You've met your idol. 27) You've made the news. 28) You've run a marathon. 29) You've learned how to ride a bike. 30) You've learned how to water-ski. 31) You've climbed a mountain. 32) You've thrown an amazing party. 33) You've gone skinny-dipping. 34) You've been to a protest/rally. 35) You've voted. 36) You've lived on your own. 37) You've assembled IKEA furniture on your own successfully. 38) You've been to prom. 39) You've been on a safari. 40) You've been to the Grand Canyon.

41) You've been camping. 42) You've cooked an entire meal, including dessert. 43) You've achieved closure with an ex. 44) You've spent a paycheck on something frivolous for yourself. 45) You've stayed at a fancy hotel. 46) You've been to a fancy spa. 47) You've spent all day in bed, just because. 48) You've scored your dream job. 49) You've ridden a horse. 50) You've played hooky from work and/or school.

51) You've been to The Metropolitan Museum of Art. 52) You've seen an opera. 53) You've seen a ballet. 54) You've been to a Broadway show. 55) You've learned how to drive a car. 56) You've tried sushi. 57) You've swam in the ocean. 58) You've driven across the country. 59) You've traveled solo. 60) You've traveled with friends. 61) You've learned how to play a sport well. 62) You've learned how to dance. 63) You've been to all 50 states. 64) You've been to the Eiffel Tower. 65) You've been to the Great Wall of China. 66) You've tried a really fancy wine. 67) You've written a book. 68) You've written a screenplay. 69) You've been to a religious ceremony not of your faith. 70) You've crashed a party.

71) You've been in a wedding. 72) You've attended a black-tie affair. 73) You've been in a band. 74) You've visited the white house. 75) You've read a book in one sitting. 76) You've set a Guinness World Record. 77) You've communicated with someone who doesn't speak the same language as you. 78) You've been to North America. 79) You've been to South America. 80) You've been to Asia.

81) You've been to Australia. 82) You've been to Africa. 83) You've been to Europe. 84) You've been to Antarctica. 85) You've won a contest. 86) You've run for some sort of leadership position. 87) You've been on TV. 88) You've been skiing. 89) You've been surfing. 90) You've been ice skating. 91) You've had a surprise party. 92) You've cultivated a hobby. 93) You've made a best friend. 94) You've had your 15 minutes of fame. 95) You've climbed a tree. 96) You've been in a hot air balloon. 97) You've won an award. 98) You've given a speech. 99) You've learned to swim. 100) You've been rollerskating. 101) You've gotten a tattoo. 102) You've tried a food you were nervous to eat. 103) You've told someone you love them. 104) You've gotten lost somewhere on purpose. 105) You've been on a game show. 106) You've hooked up with someone "famous". 107) You've been mistaken for a celebrity. 108) You've gambled in Las Vegas. 109) You've made a religious pilgrimage. 110) You've hooked up with someone outside your age range.

111) You've gotten drunk. 112) You've gotten high. 113) You've made a bucket list. 114) You've felt alive. 115) You've lived your life to the fullest.

-

I’m not afraid to admit that I’m a geek. The last video game I played was Guitar Hero.

Something has been bothering me a lot lately.

A lot of thoughts occupy my mind at the same time. i don’t know if I’ll ever be satisfied with my body. Seth Rogen movies really aren’t as funny as people say they are.

I LOVE homemade pizza.

I’m currently looking for some people to start a band with.

My relationship with my dad is very strained.

I don’t understand why people have such a problem with kids. I’ve stood next to a famous landmark. I wish my bedroom had more space in it. A friend of mine has a job. I have never owned a Cabbage Patch Kids doll. I’ve used the library to read newspapers from very long ago.

I can remember when my family moved into this house. My mother’s favorite flower is pretty typical.

I enjoy watching rain falling on a lake.

Someone I know is wearing green today. English accents really aren’t that attractive to me. I love listening to music boxes.

My dog is inside right now.

I’ve taken a college/university course before.

When there’s nothing on, I’ll watch re-runs of Happy Days.

It’s difficult for me to really get into a book. I love to eat lemons.

I prefer small venues for concerts opposed to large ones. Warped Tour isn’t as good as it used to be back in the ’90s. Yesterday was a good day. I would buy CDs all the time if I could afford it. Guitar Hero is overrated.

I’ve been grocery shopping recently.

All Time Low’s new stuff sounds much more New Found Glory than Blink 182.

I usually see the Harry Potter films within the first week of their release.

I’m going to a birthday party sometime in the next month. I prefer sans-serif fonts (Arial, Tahoma) to serif fonts (Times New Roman, Georgia). I don’t think peer pressure affects people as much as they say it does.

I still have a collection of VHS tapes. I would love to own a grand piano.

We use the back door of the house more often than the front door.

I absolutely love the insanity incorporated in some of Poe’s work.

Outer Space fascinates me.

I usually look for meaning in songs. I haven’t charged my cellphone today. My street name is also the name of a city.

Someone I know has done a choreographed dance to Beyonce’s “Single Ladies”.

Video games can keep me occupied for quite a while. I like to say “FAIL!” whenever someone screws up.

I don’t like to change my layout that often. I can’t remember the last time I played with a frisbee.

Our fridge doesn’t have a freezer.

Someone new followed my blog today.

My plans are never written in stone; they always change. I love creative cake makers. Summer passes way too quickly. I’ve watched a gay film before.

I really don’t like Xanga that much.

Facebook is stupid. I enjoy making graphics.

Elvis Costello is amazing.

FUCK WMG!

I don’t like waiting until fall for TV shows to start up again.

People are very annoying.

The band I’m listening to right now starts with an S.

I know what déjà vu actually means in French.

My favourite bath towel has a picture of something on it.

I think I’d make a pretty good actor, if I wanted to pursue that area. For as long as I’ve been living, my family has never been without a pet.

I vote for award shows.

I love going to furniture stores. The 90s was my favourite decade for non-mainstream music. My favorite book is pretty popular. I know how to read a map.

I don’t like boring cereal.

Yes, I approve of gay marriage. A friend of mine hasn’t lost his/her virginity yet. I actually wouldn’t like to be royalty.

Most good things in life are either illegal, immoral or fattening.

The idea of living out of a van appeals to me.

When someone has to say “honestly” at the start of their sentence, they’re probably not being honest.

I’ve created my own username for Facebook.

I don’t like waiting for videos to load. Little kids can always make me happy. I can’t stand it when people say “FML” over stupid things. It really sucks when I want to go to the theater but nothing good is playing. Americans suck at remaking Japanese horror films.

Lolcats are stupid, but they do make me laugh.

I get by with a little help from my friends. I often feel like I have to prove myself. I don’t think there should be “age limits” on kids things. I have a lyric painted on my wall.

[afellowslytherindemigod]

Get to know me!

I was tagged by @thebluesideofmyworld and @theeloquentsnake which both have awesome blogs - and personalities -, go check ‘em out!

Name: Suhani (means ‘pleasant’ in Gujarati, how ironic) :)

Nickname(s): Suhu, Foni (don’t ask), Shuni, Chestnut and a boatload of characters (Hermione,Nico,Isak,Annabeth)

Gender: Female

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Height: 5′ 4

MBTI: (not that I totally believe in this stuff) INFP-T (The Mediator)

Sexual Orientation: So far, I’ve only liked guys but I’m not old enough to know fully. Let’s just say heterosexual.

Favourite Colour (did I mention I’m Canadian?): *why must I choose?* I’m partial to blues and greens - slytherclaw pride - but I can’t actually decide.

Favourite Animal: Never really thought of it, but some kind of bird . . . or a fox! (I also love all pokémon, if that counts)

Average hours of sleep: 6-8

Cats or dogs? Either, both are adorable! Though, I might be more partial to dogs.

Favourite fictional character(s): AHHH SO MANY! I love Nico di Angelo, Linh Cinder, Noora Amalie Saetre, Hermione Granger, Simon Lewis (as you can see, I tried really hard to keep it short . . . this are my fave characters from some of my fave TV shows and books)

Music? *melts from indecisiveness* Currently, I’m loving Daniel Caesar, Petit Biscuit, Imagien Dragons, Oh Wonder, TROYE SIVAN, Lauv, Billie Eilish, and Vancouver Sleep Clinic. My music taste is sporadic and all over the place. I listen to what I like, period.

Dream Trip: Greece or Rome (mythology nerd right here). Iceland is definitely one of them. Maybe Amsterdam?

Dream Job? Something in medicine or literature. My creative passions are music and writing so if that’s a career option, I’m down. Though, mum wants me to be a doctor :P

Current number of followers: *dramatically states* Sadly, I have a measly 32.

When did your blog reach its peak? It hasn’t as of yet (hoping to change that) but occasional posts of mine are fun to reblog.

Time right now: 5:25 PM

Song stuck in my head: Born to die - Lana Del Rey (I kinda wish it was Crave You - Flight Facilities; I miss that song)

Last movie I watched: English movie would be IT but the most recent is a hindi one called Chef.

Last TV show I watched? Skam, season two episode five

What I’m wearing right now: Ripped skinny jeans, light purple T-shirt (wish I could dress like Noora though)

What kind of stuff I post: anything related to Harry Potter or the PJO universe, recently evak, relatable funny posts - the like.

Any other blogs on tumblr? Not as of yet, but hopefully @theeloquentsnake and I will be getting a poetry blog up

Do I get asks? Rarely, but would I like to? OF COURSE (thanks)

Why did I choose my URL? Well, I’m apparently an eyebrow-raising,sly and witty slytherin and definitely classify as a demigod (an ordinary mortal cannot be as extrordinary as I) so the name stuck :)

Lucky Numbers: Don’t have any but i love odd numbers?? Let’s pick . . . 5

Following: 41? (I think . . .)

I tag: @scarlet-fire1918 , @vika-avey , @lightwoodlesbians , and YOU (whoever is reading this, please do consider yourselves tagged)

Thanks for reading,

afellowslytherindemigod (Suhani)

#well #this got super long

[wmshappen]

For international Women’s Day, we asked some of the team about their experiences working at WMSH.

1.     Tell us about your role at WMSH.

Megan: As Senior Creative Producer, I am fortunate enough to work across experiential campaigns, stunts, events and festivals, from pitch stage right through to delivery and management.  Part of my role includes idea generation in response to creative briefs from clients.  Ideas then must be articulated through visualisations, which either myself or the design team will undertake, budgets, which show a greater level of detail on build and materials, and written content on how the idea aims to benefit the client. My role then involves producing successful projects, which can include sourcing and liaising with build and materials suppliers and venues, logistics, working with the design team to create any assets that may be required and so on. 

Lorna: I am an Event Producer at We Make Stuff Happen. There are many different aspects to my role, which I like. I work on the creative and production process ahead of events and can be found on site at some of the live events. I also work closely with all of our clients leading up to jobs, as well as meeting potential clients.

Lucy: I have recently joined WMSH as a Creative Producer.  The role involves taking briefs from clients, creative brainstorming with the WMSH team,  budgeting and supplying costs for every aspect of the project, and liaising with the workshop to ensure production runs smoothly to bring the ideas to life.

JD: I’m Co-founder, which as job titles go is gloriously undefined. Day-to-day, I oversee the creative on most of our projects, drawing on my background in advertising to ensure whatever we’re proposing has the client’s message at its heart, and sign off every budget that goes out the door. I’m a big picture thinker who hates stagnating, so I’m also very focused on strategy and where we’re going as a company. I oversee our business development team, spend a lot of time analysing how we work and seeing where and how we can do better, seeking out new opportunities, and making plans for WMSH’s future.

Alice: I'm a Senior Event Producer at WMSH. I work with clients to budget and plan their events, from conception, right up to the day of the event, where I'll then be onsite as the Production Manager or Event Manager, putting the plans into action and problem solving anything that arises. I split my time between working remotely from home in Glasgow, and travelling for client meetings and events, mostly to London and the Midlands, but have also worked on WMSH events in New York, Ibiza and Berlin.

2.     What do you most enjoy about working at WMSH?

Megan: I love that every day in the office is different. You might be looking at how to make a water-tight umbrella from an old tent one day, and then a giant sculpture made from plastic waste the next.  Every time the email pings with a new brief, it is impossible to guess what we might be asked to achieve. I’d say my favourite aspect of the job is generating ideas in response to client briefs.  We will often be given an idea of what the stunt or campaign needs to deliver, in terms of generation PR coverage, or simply getting people through the door, and I enjoy working within the parameters to come up with something that will give the client bang for their buck.

JD: Building a community of likeminded people and getting a chance to create the change I want to see in the world. Growing up, my life was very unstable and I lived in an area where there were few opportunities and high economic and cultural poverty. That taught me that work (or the lack of it) can cause stress, distress, and hardship on both an individual and a wider social scale. Because of that, I see it as a responsibility to create good quality jobs and secure interesting work for us all, and to offer opportunities to people who might not otherwise have access to them. One of the founding principles of WMSH is that the team can do more together than any of us could alone, and seeing that in action every day is a fantastic privilege.

Lucy: What I love most about this role, having come from a similar background, is the complete diversity in projects that we get to be involved in. The creative scope is endless and allows you to really use your creativity and imagination. 

Alice: No day is like another. There's always something different happening and new conundrums to solve. I don't think I could do a job that was the same every day. Every project is different and even the events we work on annually always come with new challenges and developments. WMSH is growing, so I'm always learning, and constantly getting the opportunity to take on bigger and more complex projects. I love getting to know our clients, figuring out how they work, what they need, and how we can do the best job for them. People don't always know exactly what they want, or what they need, and I enjoy taking their vision, and trying to create that for them. Occasionally I've had the pleasure of getting the WMSH office number diverted to my mobile, and that's always a fun day. It's a constant stream of bizarre calls...."We want to create a giant egg, that gets up and walks around". I love taking something like that and breaking it down...."ok, no problem....when you say giant, is that as big as a person, as big as a van, or as big as a house...?"

Lorna: What I most enjoy about working at WMSH is that no two days are the same. We get endless amounts of weird and wonderful requests which keep us excited for a run down every time the phone rings with a new brief.  

3.     Any dream clients or projects that you’d love to work with or on? 

Lucy: I love detail and colour, the application of textures and multiple fabrications.  The more bonkers the better.  Some of the creations at festivals are among the most jaw- dropping and innovative.  I would love to be involved in a creative installation for ‘Burning Man’ or to work with Morag Myerscough & Luke Morgan on their fun and colourful and interactive creations. 

Lorna: My background is in hospitality and I am very passionate about food and drink, so I would love to work with some more big brands or festivals that are in this field. 

JD: We’re very lucky in that dream projects come in all the time. I always love working with causes, whether it’s an organisation campaigning for Living Wage, sustainability, human rights or something for Pride. I enjoy the challenge of delivering something inspiring that might not have a massive budget, and there’s nothing more gratifying than seeing the general public interact positively with something that has a real message to it. It’s always good to have a reminder that most people are kind, generous of spirit, and open to change.

Alice: Glastonbury. WMSH did do a project at Glastonbury with Oxfam, which unfortunately I wasn't involved in, but as someone who loves to work on festivals, getting to see behind the scenes of the biggest festival there is, is an ambition. I've heard that it's organised like many mini-festivals, all knitted together, and it would be awesome if WMSH ever got to run one of those. Also, it's an ambition of mine to work with Nickelback. Shoot me down if you must, I know it's silly, and they say never meet your idols, but my career goal has always been that one day our trajectories will meet, and I'll get to work on a Nickelback show. I got to work with Theory of a Deadman once ("Nickelback-lite" for those who don't know them). They invited me onto their tour bus for drinks after the show, and I'll never forgive the polite English girl inside of me who (before I knew what she was saying) said "oh no, thank you, but I must be heading home". I want to work on a Dolly Parton show too - she's so talented, and seems like such a professional, it would be amazing to see her set up up close.

Megan: I have always loved and admired Guinness as brand, from its mad, conceptual advertising campaigns to the weird and wonderful experiential activities that it undertakes. I would love to receive a good chunky brief from them to create something totally new and inspiring. We recently worked with Oxfam on a summer-long campaign around creating awareness around clothing wastage in the UK, and ultimately asking people to pledge support to make better choices in the future.  The project turned into a bit of a dream brief, which involved huge amounts of creativity from the team, and an array of beautifully made campaign materials as a result.  

4.     Tell us something about yourself outside of work. 

Megan: I have a very busy household with two boys, Herbie (4) and Bon (2), we are soon to be joined by a third who is yet to be named. To add to the chaos, we have three dogs, which have been described as akin to small horses in size, Bully, Buddy and Florence.  Phew.

Alice: I go to a lot of gigs, and buy a lot of CDs. I play on a netball team, The Glasgow Flames, currently in Division 3 of the local league. I'm also on the committee for the club, helping build our ranks and develop the club.  I am married to Graeme, a doctor of Engineering at the University of Glasgow. We live with 2 ferrets and 2 pole cats (who I love) and a terrapin/angry rock (who I do not). While I've not played as much in the last 5 years or so, I also play the guitar and sing. My favourite musical achievements were getting played on Radio 1 with a song I wrote, playing to a thousand people at the St Andrews grad ball, and at the St Andrews Rock Music Society Reunion Ball, standing on a table, and belting out Don't Stop Believing to a pumped up crowd, while wearing high heels and gothic fairy wings. That was a lot of fun.

Lorna: When I am not in WMSH HQ or on site with a hi vis on, I can be found eating out in the evening with friends or my boyfriend, Will. I spend most of my weekend days going for long walks around Brighton with my dog, Reuben, binging on Netflix series or swimming.

Lucy: I am kept very busy by my two kids Noah and Lottie who love to hear about all the different projects I get to work on.  Bikram yoga keeps me sane and allows me to dream of being in a hotter climate.  I try to get to music and comedy gigs as often as I can. 

JD: I’m a voracious consumer of music and former DJ, so in my free time I’m usually listening to the radio, trawling Spotify, or crate diving. I enjoy a mooch around secondhand shops and flea markets looking for bizarre objects no one else will love, collect and propogate succulents, and also read a lot of Stoic philosophy in the ongoing pursuit of a calm, worthwhile, and happy life.