17 yr old, graduated school early, currently working with counselor for employment assistance which led to recommendation to LearnKey. No “IT” classes or clubs in school but always interested and enjoy tinkering and troubleshooting with both hardware and software. Have minimal web development knowledge, like surface level stuff( HTML, CSS, Java, C). Not necessarily interested in app or web development & have no qualms about learning about it, but would like to be involved behind the scenes, like maintaining server racks and networks with occasional end user troubleshooting.
Currently reading the A+ book from Mike Meyers and honestly a lot of the stuff clicks and makes sense, with the occasional thing I’ll have to look up; will prob read the book twice and mix in some YouTube video tutorials to fill in gaps (Messer, Network Chuck, Tech Gee, & even LTT coming in clutch) .
Don’t know if any of this makes sense or even the right place to ask, but figured I’d ask; how did you get to where you are now? (Most likely than not, help desk / very entry level, which is fine, absolutely do not mind; would like that as well, boots on ground and learn ropes before trying to run. However most “entry level” job postings I’ve seen ask for 2-4 years experience, among other things). If you could go back and do it differently, would you? and how? Any time or resources you spent learning something you wish you would’ve focused on something else?
LearnKey offers what they call signature programs. And am interested in their Entry level cyber security program, which includes: 1. CompTIA IT Fund 2. A+ 3. Net+ 4. Sec+ 5. EC Council Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE) 6. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
and additionally a entry level cybersecurity digital forensics course which includes those 6, plus: * EC-Council Digatal Forensics Essnt. (DFE) * Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI)
Alternatively on shorter time frames & different curriculums, a course containing just: * CompTIA IT Fund. * ITS network Security * ITS cybersecurity * EC Council Network Defense Essentials
And another one with only: * CompTIA IT Fund. * ITS network Security * EC Council Digital Forensics Essentials
Ideally, would opt for Advance level networking that includes: * CompTIA A+, Net+, Sec+ * EC Council Network Defense Essentials (NDE) * Certified Network Defender (CND) * Cisco Certified Network Associate (200-301)
but I know well enough I’m not anywhere near “advanced” in terms of knowledge and skill. Although, I am offered the opportunity to “upskill” down the road so that’s why I’m leaning on an entry level program (besides not wanting to overestimate myself). I’m also definitely not trying to take shortcuts or rush through any of the learning process (that’s kinda the part I enjoy most, well after actually applying what was learned), so don’t mind “taking” time to learn. The time will pass regardless.
I know it’s a long post, I’ll most likely cross post to reach different opinions and views. Basically I’m just asking for some guidance and experience from those that know more than I do. Not to familiar with the ITS certs, and could be wrong but from the research I’ve done, have been led to believe the CompTIA ones hold some more weight.
Long term goal would like to aim for, (junior) System / Network Admin / Specialist, LAN Admin / Specialist, IT Specialist or something along those lines. Would the courses, if any, qualify for any of these roles?
Any input or advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you and have a great day.

I’m recommending 30 hours per week for a 3 year old and I’m feeling a little…icky about it. Tell me what you think:
Just turned 3, doesn’t nap. Scored 0’s across the VBMAPP and non-vocal. Currently in daycare 40 hours per week, but the parents report the daycare has asked that they find a “better fit” for the child (aka we don’t want them). So I’m recommending them for in clinic because we have a play gym, a sensory room, tons of toys, it’s actually lot of fun. I’ve tailored the goals to be play based and child led. A regular schedule of free operant preference assessments, parallel play and leading to joint attention when the child appears to give assent (allowing BT in their space, engaging with shared materials, etc) and modeling without expectation (frequency counts of motor imitation, vocal imitation and reciprocal play). Non-contingent sensory breaks, choice board available for requesting snacks/toys/space in between offerings.
I just can’t get over 30 hours per week. I know they was doing more at daycare but it feels like a lot. And realistically the parents have to work so it’s better that they are in a space that can accommodate high behavioral and sensory needs.
Sorry this ended up as a rant, I guess I just wanted to open the conversation to other BCBAs who feel the ick with their own recommendations sometimes 😅

Hey, just had a few questions and hopefully you knowledgeable people can help me out. Keep in mind I’m just starting to research so feel free to tell me I’m an idiot about anything that doesn’t seem right lol.
I want to take a 2 day one night camping/canoe trip in September sometime. It’ll be me, my buddy, my 13 year old daughter, 17 yr old nephew and dog. I don’t want it to be completely slow and calm the whole time. We’re not afraid of a little white water, nothing crazy though.
I’m seeing there’s 2 trips that people seem to talk about with this length of trip.

1. Woolum to Gilbert
2. Grinder's Ferry to South Maume

What are the differences of these runs of the river? Would you prefer one over the other?
Also I would like to set up a tent and camp somewhere along the river. Is that allowed? With campfires and all?
Thanks for any suggestions you might have.

So i think this may be a little backwards, but here goes.
Ive built PCs, I work in a networking adjacent field, and I like having stuff thats overkill in all aspects of life. So after not taking my ADD meds for a few days, I'm diving head first into something like an idiot.
Backstory: for the last 10 years or so i have been installing Physical access control, and camera systems for a national retailer (think BIG BIG. with their own data centers, and central monitoring). In that role, i was provided hardware, and had to program at the device level, but never dealt much with the server setups. I got tired of traveling nonstop, so i got a new job as an "engineer" for another company, doing design work. Since we utilize lots of systems that i am not familiar with I am working on taking some of the server setup work from the programming team to familiarize myself with the systems. In the process of doing that, i realized that having my programming lab be a folding table with a server sitting on it and cameras and access boards strewn about wasnt the best bet, so i picked up a free 48u rack off marketplace for cheap, commandeered a UPS and KVM Console, from the office, bought 2 used servers on marketplace, and a few cisco enterprise 48 port POE+ switches. All hardware was pretty cheap which im sure i will regret soon (im sitting around $400 currently). Here's what im working with:
Server 1 - Dell Poweredge r720XD - dual Xeon e5-2670's, 128gb DDR3, 1tb HDD (11 empty drive bays, that i will be filling for storage) Server 2 - Dell Poweredge R710 - Dual Xeon L5520's, 128gb ECC, 3x2TB HDD
Server 1 im planning to be a NAS for documents, photos, and CCTV storage, as well as running the CCTV VMS, plus whatever else it can handle
Server 2 was basically given to me when i bought server 1 so im not 100% sure yet. I was thinking about using it as a way to train on new software solutions when given demo licenses by our vendors, Maybe even set up in its own VLAN/standalone network to work on more secure buildouts
Some other things i would like to try but im unsure if i have the hardware capability:
Make a minecraft server for my daughter and a few friends (3-5 active players at a time) plex server (currently dont own a ton of physical media, but that may be in the future. im tired of switching streaming services month to month) Have games saved to the server so i can play them on any computer in the house without filling up the laptop (not sure how to make this happen. Basically, i like to play Flight sim 2020 every few months, its 200gb, and im tired of uninstalling a bunch of stuff and installing it just to play for 30 mins and get bored)
IDK. I guess what im really asking is what now. Where would you begin? What other things could/should i be doing. I basically needed a structured cable/rack setup but got too excited on FB marketplace, and im looking at a pile of parts wondering if i am an idiot.

Meditation is one of the most ancient practices which almost every self improvement creator or people in self improvement tell about and it has almost a mystic essence to it. This mystic nature of meditation comes from the fact that its written account is first seen in VEDAS, Hindu Scripture, which is 1500 BCE. So it is pretty old.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:
I have been meditating for almost 2 years obviously with ups and downs, going from 20 minutes a day to 0 minutes but overall I have meditated for more than 50 hours or over 3000 Minutes. I did it mostly from Waking Up App (2432 Minutes), Medito (193 Minutes) And Rest with just a timer. So I don’t have the experience of a monk but I have some experience in meditation and here’s how it has affected my life.
CHOICE AND SELF AWARENESS
One thing which meditation has given me is choice and it is probably the most relevant change I have felt in myself. As a kid and as a teenager I was an angry boy and I used to lash out on people in fit of rage and had violent tendencies which occurred when something didn’t go my way and I used to just hit people when I got angry. My mom wanted me to meditate because she thought it would help cure my anger issues. But obviously I didn’t listen to her. But later I started meditating on my own accord. And now when any event happens I automatically see the anger coming on the surface and feel a level of control on that. Do I still lash out? Yes sometimes, less than before but now I feel it comes because It is required like, to standing up for someone and not because I am just angry. It could be just a rationalisation I use to justify the anger but just the thought that I am aware of my own anger and what I use to rationalise is the new skill which I gained because of meditation.
MOVING ON AND ACTION:
Before meditating, if an event happens which bothers me and I couldn’t take action or didn’t wanted to take action on it I would get stuck on that. I would then use the anger of not taking that action towards someone else, but now when an event happens I feel like if I don’t any actions towards it because of any reason I am able to get over it more easily and don’t get stuck at any one thing, which makes me unbothered and disregard anything which is not really important and it is easier to focus on what is important.
ACTIONABLE ADVICE:

1. Waking Up App: This app is by Sam Hariss and you can get it for free if you apply for a scholarship and it has a lot of different types of meditation. Plus it also has audio courses for daily life, like Time Management, Stoicism etc
2. Medito: This app is much simpler, it too has courses, and also has daily meditation which starts from 3 minutes which makes it easier to practise daily.
3. Timer: If you are starting you can also use a timer and start from one minute and increase your meditation practice daily or weekly.
4. Smartwatches And Smart Bands: These devices has a feature called breathing which can help if you get lost in thought while meditating and brings you back to the present moment.

This was my personal experience with meditation, if you have any problems which you want me to make a guide on write in comments and I will make a guide to tackle that problem. If you have any review on my writing please tell me in comments I will appreciate any advice on writing as well. THANK YOU

Meditation is one of the most ancient practices which almost every self improvement creator or people in self improvement tell about and it has almost a mystic essence to it. This mystic nature of meditation comes from the fact that its written account is first seen in VEDAS, Hindu Scripture, which is 1500 BCE. So it is pretty old.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:
I have been meditating for almost 2 years obviously with ups and downs, going from 20 minutes a day to 0 minutes but overall I have meditated for more than 50 hours or over 3000 Minutes. I did it mostly from Waking Up App (2432 Minutes), Medito (193 Minutes) And Rest with just a timer. So I don’t have the experience of a monk but I have some experience in meditation and here’s how it has affected my life.
CHOICE AND SELF AWARENESS
One thing which meditation has given me is choice and it is probably the most relevant change I have felt in myself. As a kid and as a teenager I was an angry boy and I used to lash out on people in fit of rage and had violent tendencies which occurred when something didn’t go my way and I used to just hit people when I got angry. My mom wanted me to meditate because she thought it would help cure my anger issues. But obviously I didn’t listen to her. But later I started meditating on my own accord. And now when any event happens I automatically see the anger coming on the surface and feel a level of control on that. Do I still lash out? Yes sometimes, less than before but now I feel it comes because It is required like, to standing up for someone and not because I am just angry. It could be just a rationalisation I use to justify the anger but just the thought that I am aware of my own anger and what I use to rationalise is the new skill which I gained because of meditation.
MOVING ON AND ACTION:
Before meditating, if an event happens which bothers me and I couldn’t take action or didn’t wanted to take action on it I would get stuck on that. I would then use the anger of not taking that action towards someone else, but now when an event happens I feel like if I don’t any actions towards it because of any reason I am able to get over it more easily and don’t get stuck at any one thing, which makes me unbothered and disregard anything which is not really important and it is easier to focus on what is important.
ACTIONABLE ADVICE:

1. Waking Up App: This app is by Sam Hariss and you can get it for free if you apply for a scholarship and it has a lot of different types of meditation. Plus it also has audio courses for daily life, like Time Management, Stoicism etc
2. Medito: This app is much simpler, it too has courses, and also has daily meditation which starts from 3 minutes which makes it easier to practise daily.
3. Timer: If you are starting you can also use a timer and start from one minute and increase your meditation practice daily or weekly.
4. Smartwatches And Smart Bands: These devices has a feature called breathing which can help if you get lost in thought while meditating and brings you back to the present moment.

This was my personal experience with meditation, if you have any problems which you want me to make a guide on write in comments and I will make a guide to tackle that problem. If you have any review on my writing please tell me in comments I will appreciate any advice on writing as well. THANK YOU

“True happiness comes from the joy of deeds well done, the zest of creating things new.” Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Bio
Name: Taylor Bennett Armstrong	Date of Birth: 04/03/2024
Age: 15 years old	Gender: Demiboy
Sexual Orientation:	Nationality: Canadian
Ethnicity: Irish-Jewish	Languages: English, French, Japanese
Hometown: Toronto, Canada	Demigod Conundrums: ADHD

Family:

Name Relation Age Occupation Relationship ------------
Benjamin Armstrong Father 42 years old Artist Taylor shares a special bond with his father, Benjamin Armstrong. Despite being a single parent for much of Taylor's life, Benjamin always made sure to provide a loving and nurturing environment for his son. He recognized Taylor's unique talents from a young age and encouraged him to explore his creativity without limitations. Benjamin's own passion for art and innovation served as an inspiration for Taylor, shaping his worldview and igniting his love for invention. Benjamin supports Taylor's dreams and ambitions wholeheartedly, even if he doesn't always understand the mechanics behind his son's creations.
Eliza Armstrong Stepmother 43 years old Graphic Designer She brings a different perspective to Taylor's life. As a graphic designer, she values precision and order, which sometimes clashes with Taylor's more spontaneous and chaotic approach to creativity. However, despite their differences, Eliza cares deeply for Taylor and wants what's best for him. She worries about Taylor's safety and well-being, especially when his inventions go awry and cause unintended chaos. She often finds herself playing the role of the voice of reason, urging Taylor to think things through more carefully before diving headfirst into his next project. Despite their occasional disagreements, Eliza recognizes Taylor's potential and admires his boundless imagination and ingenuity.
Rachel Armstrong Half-sister 10 years old Student Rachel Armstrong, Taylor's half-sister, adores her older brother and looks up to him with wide-eyed admiration. From a young age, she was fascinated by Taylor's inventions and artistic talents, often trailing after him like a curious puppy, eager to learn and explore alongside him. Taylor sees Rachel as the most precious angel in the world and is very protective of her. He takes great joy in teaching her how to sketch, build, and code, fostering her own love for art and invention. Rachel, in turn, idolizes her big brother and cherishes their time together.

Appearance

Faceclaim: this Picrew Voiceclaim Walter from Spies in Disguise

Features	Description
Height	5’8 feet
Weight	157 lbs
Hair	Ginger
Eyes	Blue
Skin	Tan
Build	Lean, slim
Scent	Ink, paint, oil
Attire	Gamer Aesthetic

Overview: Ginger Hair: One of Taylor's most noticeable features is his vibrant ginger hair, which seems to have a life of its own. His locks cascade in untamed waves around his head, framing his face in a fiery halo. Despite occasional attempts to tame it, Taylor's hair always manages to retain its wild, rebellious spirit, reflecting his own untamed nature. Taylor's eyes are a mesmerizing shade of blue. They sparkle with curiosity and intelligence, constantly darting from one point of interest to the next. Across Taylor's nose and cheeks are scattered a constellation of freckles, like tiny stars dotting the canvas of his face. Despite his intelligence beyond his years, Taylor's face retains a youthful charm and innocence. His features are soft and rounded, with a hint of boyish mischief lurking behind his bright smile. There is a sense of wonder and curiosity in his expression, as if he is forever on the brink of discovering something new and exciting. Taylor's fashion sense is a reflection of his personality, blending comfort with a hint of geeky flair. He favors graphic t-shirts adorned with characters from his favorite video games, showcasing his love for gaming and pop culture. His hoodies are oversized and well-worn, providing both warmth and a sense of familiarity. Taylor's cargo pants are practical and utilitarian, offering plenty of pockets to store his tools and gadgets for tinkering. His sneakers are his constant companions, scuffed and worn from countless adventures and late-night gaming marathons.

Personality

“Creativity is a wild mind and a disciplined eye.” Dorothy Parker
Quality Traits Positive Optimistic, Creative, Kind-hearted, Spontaneous, Resilient Neutral Naive, Chaotic, Impulsive, Eccentric, Idealistic Negative Gullible, Overbearing, Impatient, Inattentive, Stubborn
Overview: Taylor radiates an infectious positivity that lights up any room he enters. He greets each day with boundless enthusiasm, seeing every challenge as an opportunity for adventure and growth. His optimism is unwavering, even in the face of adversity, and he has a knack for finding the silver lining in the darkest of situations. Taylor's sunny disposition makes him a joy to be around, and his genuine smile can brighten even the gloomiest of days. Taylor marches to the beat of his own drum, embracing his individuality with gusto. He has never been one to conform to societal norms or expectations, preferring to chart his own course through life. Taylor's free-spirited nature is reflected in everything he does, from his spontaneous inventions to his unconventional approach to problem-solving. He thrives on the freedom to express himself creatively, unbound by rules or conventions. Taylor's energy is boundless, and he approaches everything he does with an infectious sense of excitement and wonder. He is easily captivated by new ideas and experiences, often bouncing from one project to the next with the fervor of a child in a candy store. Taylor's excitable nature fuels his insatiable curiosity, driving him to constantly seek out new challenges and adventures. Despite his youthful exuberance, Taylor possesses a keen intellect far beyond his years. He is a natural problem-solver, able to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to even the most daunting of challenges. Taylor's mind is a whirlwind of ideas and possibilities, constantly buzzing with new inventions and artistic endeavors. His creativity knows no bounds, and he revels in the thrill of bringing his imagination to life. Taylor's intelligence and creativity have instilled in him a healthy dose of confidence, bordering on cockiness at times. He knows his worth and isn't afraid to show it, often speaking his mind with a brashness that can catch others off guard. However, Taylor's confidence is tempered by his humility and genuine humility. He is quick to acknowledge his mistakes and learn from them, never allowing his ego to overshadow his humanity. At the core of Taylor's personality is a deep well of kindness and empathy for others. He genuinely cares about the people around him and goes out of his way to help those in need. Taylor's compassion knows no bounds, and he often puts the needs of others before his own. He is quick to offer a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on, and his unwavering support has endeared him to many. Beneath Taylor's cheerful exterior lies a vulnerability that he often tries to conceal. He is sensitive to the opinions of others and fears being rejected or misunderstood. Taylor's insecurities stem from a desire to be accepted and valued for who he truly is, flaws and all. Despite his outward confidence, he struggles with feelings of loneliness and self-doubt, yearning for genuine connections and validation. Taylor's drive for excellence can sometimes border on perfectionism, leading him to be overly critical of himself and his work. He sets high standards for himself and is often disappointed when he falls short of his own expectations. However, Taylor's perfectionism is tempered by his resilience and determination to persevere in the face of failure. He sees each setback as an opportunity to learn and grow, refusing to let obstacles dampen his spirit. Taylor has a gift for communication, able to express his thoughts and feelings with clarity and sincerity. He is a natural storyteller, captivating audiences with his animated anecdotes and infectious enthusiasm. Taylor's ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level makes him a trusted confidant and valued friend. He listens intently to others, offering words of encouragement and wisdom when needed. Taylor approaches life with a sense of adventure, always eager to explore new horizons and push the boundaries of what is possible. He thrives on the thrill of discovery, relishing in the excitement of unknown possibilities. Taylor's insatiable curiosity drives him to seek out new experiences and embrace the unknown with open arms. Whether embarking on a daring quest or simply trying out a new recipe, he approaches each adventure with the same sense of wonder and excitement. Taylor has a playful sense of humor that often borders on mischievousness. He loves to joke and laugh, finding joy in the absurdities of life. Taylor's playful nature brings levity to even the most serious of situations, helping to ease tension and lift spirits. He delights in pulling harmless pranks and sharing witty banter with friends, always with a twinkle in his eye and a grin on his face. Taylor is incredibly adaptable, able to thrive in any environment or situation. He approaches change with a sense of curiosity and excitement, eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Taylor's ability to adapt to different circumstances has served him well throughout his life, allowing him to navigate the complexities of both the mortal world and the realm of the gods with ease.
Preferences
Favourite... Item Food Macaroni and cheese, mango milkshake Colour Electric Blue Season Summer Weather Sunny, warm, clear skies Music Pop, rock, orchestral, jazz, celtic Animals Bunnies and Cats Book/Movie Genre Fantasy, Sci-fi, Romance, Slice-of-life, Adventure, Action Media Avatar: The Last Airbender, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia, Kingdom Hearts, Legend of Zelda, Genshin Impact, Honkai Impact 3rd, Honkai: Star Rail, Pokémon, a scary amount of anime, etc…
Hobbies:

• Drawing
• Painting
• Crafting
• Sewing
• Video Games
• Cosplay

Demigod Info

Powers

Name	Type	Description
Psychometry	Domain	The ability to glean information from a particular object relevant to the parent's domain, especially its material make-up and method of creation. (Crafts, Mechanics and Art)
Enhanced Skill Proficiency	Domain	A trait where one is naturally adept in the skills lorded over by their parent. (Crafts, Mechanics and Art)
Summon Tool	Domain	The ability to summon any small tool. (Once every 5 minutes or per turn.) (Duct Tape or Superglue)
Machine Communication	Minor	A trait where one is able to understand and communicate with automatons and machinery (includes code).
Electrical Resistance	Minor	A trait where one is able to resist electricity to a such degree that they are able to withstand badly interacting with small appliances.
Machine Manipulation (Technokinesis)	Minor	The ability to directly control mechanisms, machines and automatons.
Basic Enchantment	Major	The ability to imbue weapons, crafts, machinery and automatons with magical properties (modmail for specific enchantments). Options: Weapon Transformation—into a mundane item; Monster Hunting Proficiency for a) Fleshy Monsters—Sharpness, b) Armored Monsters—Bludgeoning, c) Ghosty Monsters—Absorption

Weapon of Choice: Bastard Sword
Fatal Flaw: Naivety Taylor's fatal flaw lies in his inherent naivety, stemming from his trusting and optimistic nature. Despite his intelligence and creativity, Taylor often lacks the worldly wisdom and discernment needed to navigate the complexities of the world around him. His naivety makes him vulnerable to manipulation and deception, as he struggles to see the darker intentions lurking behind the smiles of others.

Items and Equipment

Name	Age	Description
Sketchbook	7 years old	Taylor always carries a sketchbook with him, filled with doodles, sketches, and designs inspired by his vivid imagination.
Art Supplies	3 years old	As someone who enjoys art, Taylor keeps a collection of art supplies like pencils, markers, and colored pencils, allowing him to bring his creative visions to life wherever he goes.
Tool Kit	5 years old	As a budding inventor and tinkerer, Taylor carries a compact tool kit with him at all times. It contains essential tools like screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, and a mini soldering iron, allowing him to repair gadgets, fix mechanical issues, and work on DIY projects on the fly.
Nintendo Switch	2 years old	Taylor never leaves home without Nintendo Switch. He keeps a selection of his favorite games in his backpack, ready to play whenever he has a spare moment to indulge in his love of gaming.
Music Player	3 years old	Music is a constant source of inspiration and motivation for Taylor, so he always carries a portable music player loaded with his favorite tunes.
Cat Headphones	1 year old	High-quality headphones that allow him to escape into his own world of music whenever he needs a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They are cat-themed for no reason other than Taylor felt like it.

Trivia

• Zodiac Sign: Pisces
• MBTI: ESTP-T (The Entrepreneur)
• Enneagram: Type 7 (The Enthusiast)
• Love Languages: Words of Affirmation (receive); Acts of service (give)
• Quirk: Doodling on almost every surface he sees when bored.
• Fears: Hurting People, Big Animals

Backstory

“There is no innovation and creativity without failure.” ***Brené Brown*
Taylor Bennett Armstrong was born into a creatively vibrant family. His father, Benjamin Armstrong, was a dedicated artist who often spent hours in his studio, painting and sculpting. Benjamin's work was deeply inspired by classical art, and his studio was filled with references to mythological themes and ancient techniques. This environment planted the seeds of creativity in Taylor from a very young age.
Taylor’s biological mother was Techne, the goddess of art, craft, and invention, but he had no knowledge of her divine heritage. His mother left shortly after his birth, leaving Benjamin to raise Taylor on his own. Despite the absence of his mother, Taylor's early childhood was filled with love and encouragement from his father.
When Taylor was five, Benjamin met Eliza, a talented graphic designer, at an art exhibit. They quickly bonded over their shared love for art and soon married. Eliza embraced Taylor as her own, though she struggled to understand his unique, often chaotic way of thinking and creating.
Even as a young child, Taylor showed remarkable intelligence and creativity. By the age of six, he was building simple machines and drawing intricate designs. His father was both amazed and slightly concerned when Taylor began to take apart household appliances to understand how they worked. While Benjamin encouraged his son's curiosity, Eliza worried about the constant mess and occasional accidents that resulted from Taylor's experiments.
Taylor’s half-sister, Rachel, was born when he was five. She looked up to her big brother with admiration, often following him around and watching as he created his various inventions. Despite the occasional mishap, Taylor and Rachel shared a close bond, with Taylor frequently making small toys and gadgets to entertain her.
School was both a blessing and a curse for Taylor. His intelligence allowed him to excel academically, but his unique way of thinking and his constant tinkering often got him into trouble. Teachers labeled him a "problem child" due to his inability to sit still and follow conventional methods. Taylor's inventions occasionally caused disruptions, further cementing his reputation.
Socially, Taylor found it hard to connect with his peers. His enthusiasm and intelligence often intimidated other children, and he was frequently taken advantage of by classmates who used him to boost their own grades. These experiences left Taylor feeling lonely and self-conscious about his naivety, although he never let it dampen his cheerful spirit.
Taylor's life took a dramatic turn when he was 15 years old. One day, while working on a particularly ambitious project in his makeshift workshop, he was visited by Oleander, a satyr sent by Camp Half-Blood. Oleander had been observing Taylor for some time, noting his extraordinary abilities and his connection to the divine.
Oleander revealed to Taylor the truth about his mother, Techne, and his demigod heritage. At first, Taylor was skeptical, thinking it was some sort of elaborate joke or fantasy. However, Oleander's ability to demonstrate his satyr powers and his deep knowledge of Taylor's unexplained talents eventually convinced him.
Explaining the situation to his family was a challenge. Benjamin, who had always suspected that there was something special about Taylor, took the news in stride. Eliza, though worried and confused, ultimately supported the decision, understanding that Camp Half-Blood could provide Taylor with the guidance he needed. Rachel was both excited and scared for her brother, worried about the dangers he might face and she would miss him.
Thankfully, despite the huge distance he and Oleander had to travel from Toronto to Long Island went calmly, for the most part, with not many delays or monsters attacking them.
Well, at least until they reached New York. After that, the whole “calm journey” was out the window. It almost seemed like all the monsters decided to wait until they were close to their destination to suddenly appear one after the other. First they had to somehow avoid a cyclops. Then they were attacked by dracanaea. And finally, they were chased by harpies until they crossed the border of Camp Half-Blood.
By some miracle, they were still alive.
What a way to be introduced to demigod life.

Present Day

“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun” Mary Lou Cook
Taylor's arrival at Campbell Half-Blood was… something, alright.
You know, being chased by monsters from New York to Long Island, passing out in between attacks and then waking up in the Medic Cabin feeling like you've been hit by a truck and maimed by a cat at the same time was, in short, not fun. It also didn't help the fact that he had to stay in bed to get treated for what, hours. Which, for someone like Taylor, was absolute torture. Good for him then that demigods, apparently, had magic healing and he didn't have to stay for days instead. At least Oleander was around to explain every detail about the world he's been thrust into now that he was out of danger. And as a plus, he was also claimed, so yay! He had no clue who Techne was, but he was sure he would learn soon enough.
So, what does Taylor do after getting patched up? Does he wait and rest for a bit just to make sure everything is okay with him? Does he stop for a moment to process everything that has happened to him in the last 24 hours?
No! Of course not! This is Taylor, after all. Him staying put for more than 10 minutes would be a miracle already.
Instead, he just went off on his own to see what this Camp Half-Blood was all about. He just had to get to his cabin first, which would be relatively easy with Oleander's instructions, and then he could explore this place to his heart's content!
Hopefully, Camp Half-Blood would be ready for the chaotic force Taylor would prove to be.
[OOC: Hello, everyone! Say hello to my new character, Taylor! Feel free to interact with him literally anywhere at Camp, he's probably going to be there at some point anyway lmao. Thanks for reading;)]

Hi! I'm a nerdy and poly trans woman looking for another partner. 💚
Me: 29 years old, polyam and ENM with a nesting partner who is supportive of me searching for another partner, very nerdy and into video games, ttrpgs, writing, and painting minis, been on HRT for a little under 6 years. Switchy and mildly kinky, touch and quality time are my love languages, optimally cuddle shaped,will listen to you infodump and binge-watch shows with you
You: Poly, some form of nerdy, be it games, shows, writing or some other permutation of nerd, local (I can't do long-distance, I've tried it before), at least 24 years or older, likes sex (preferably a little bit of a Dom streak), enjoys cuddles, will call me pretty
If any of that interests you please feel free to DM or message me! I look forward to meeting you 😘

Contest Rules For Best Song Of The Month • Updated May 19th, 2024

Click here to see summary of changes.

Best Song Of The Month Contest

Music Or Lose It hosts a monthly Best Song Of The Month contest at this musicorloseittv subreddit community. There is no cash or monetary value prize at this time. This contest is simply just for fun. Winners earn the enjoyment of being voted the best. Winners may cite the win in their biographies and social media posts.
The moderator (mod) is available to help music creators with the entry process, eligibility requirements, and deadlines. Music creators are allowed to contact the mod to ask questions about the contest anytime and mod will reply as soon as possible.
Definitions
Music creator: refers to a solo creator, band, group, choir, orchestra, or duo.
Brand identity: refers to how a creator presents themselves as an entertainer making music for the general public. For example, Simon & Garfunkel as a duo is one brand identity. Paul Simon solo is another brand identity.

Process & Deadlines

🟡 Round 1
1) Discovery ◦ Each month, moderator keeps track of songs shared at this musicorloseittv community.
2) Notifying Music Creators ◦ When a likely eligible song is seen, the u/musicorloseittv profile or u/themusicfanman profile will notify the music creator of likely eligibility within the qualifying song’s post. The reply will indicate, “⏳ This song appears eligible for the Best Song Of The Month contest. Please provide the following information…” If the song is confirmed to be eligible by a mod, the mod will make a reply “🟨 This is confirmation notifying you that this song is eligible and in consideration for the Best Song Of The Month contest…” within the qualifying song’s post.
3) Determining Contestants ◦ The Music Fan man will evaluate all eligible songs by the month’s eligibility deadline. He will then at his discretion choose up to 5 songs to compete.
3) Finalists Post ◦ At this musicorloseittv community, the musicorloseittv profile will announce the top finalists (up to 5) in a post tiled “Contest: Best Song Of The Month Finalists (Insert Month & Year).” This announcement will be done in a post made 4 days before the final day of the month. The post will be made sometime in the morning. The songs will be listed within the post in a manner most representative of music diversity as determined by the musicorloseittv profile mod. All songs available on YouTube will be included in a playlist titled “Best Song Of The Month Contestants • (Insert Month & Year)” hosted by the musicorloseittv channel on YouTube. Songs not available on YouTube will be excluded from the playlist. The playlist will be mentioned in this post. The available playlist will help voters get familiar with the songs.
The u/musicorloseittv profile or u/themusicfanman profile will notify the music creators of qualifying for the contest in their post of the song. The reply will indicate, “✅ Congratulations. Your song qualifies for the Best Song Of The Month contest…”
4) Voting ◦ The “Contest: Best Song Of The Month Finalists (Insert Month & Year)” post will specify a duration of 3 consecutive dates during which music fans can vote for only 1 of the top finalists. Voting occurs by the voters making a reply to the post in the following manner: “🗳️ I vote for….” Failing to vote in this manner will result in vote not being counted. To best ensure vote accuracy, voters must not use the “🗳️” emoji anywhere else in the post’s comments section. Music creators may vote for another music creator yet may not vote for themselves. For music creators, it’s “word of honor” voting. The top vote earning song within these three days will become the winner.
‣ Community moderator profiles musicorloseittv and onesongoftheday will abstain from voting. Also, themusicfanman and any special judge involved will also abstain from voting - unless they’re needed to serve as a tie breaker, in the event of a tie preventing a clear winner. If themusicfanman and any special judge involved are needed as a tie breaker, they must come to a consensus to achieve tie breaking. If no special judge is involved, then themusicfanman alone will serve as the tie breaker.
🟢 Winner Declaration!
Declaration Post ◦ At this musicorloseittv community, on the final day of the month, the musicorloseittv profile will announce the winner in a post tiled “Congratulations! 🎉 Best Song Of The Month Winner (Insert Month & Year)” in a post dedicated to celebrating the song. Using the sticky-post feature, the post will be prominently displayed the home page of the musicorloseittv subreddit community for ≈ 24 hours.
Achievement ◦ The contest winner may promote their song as:
My song “Song Title” won:
🏅Best Song Of The Month By Community Vote
(Insert Month & Year)
At The Music Or Lose It Community
The winner may promote themselves and the song as the winner at venues like X/Twitter, Facebook, Threads, or their YouTube channel’s Community feed. The winner may also cite the win in their biographies online including their personal website.
🏆 Song Of The Year
A similar Song Of The Year vote will occur in December. It will be similarly organized and scheduled to conclude on the final day of the year. To determine a Song Of The Year by the end of the year, December’s monthly contest will only be ≈ 2 weeks. Why? Because we need time to conclude The Song Of The Year vote by the end of the year. Additionally, this is a busy time of year for many people. What’s more, non-Christmas music released in December is typically overshadowed by Christmas music. It seems to be a bad idea to release new-original music in late December. See opinion commentary: The Best And Worst Months To Release Music.
Achievement ◦ The contest winner may promote their song as:
🏆 Best Song Of The Year By Community Vote
(Insert Year)
At The Music Or Lose It Community
The winner may promote themselves and the song as the winner at venues like X/Twitter, Facebook, Threads, or their YouTube channel’s Community feed. The winner may also cite the win in their biographies online including their personal website.

Eligibility

Here are the rules for the Best Song Of The Month contest organized by Music Or Lose It just for fun. The eligibility rules are intended to make this contest as fair as possible to the music creator participants.
**👤 Personal: **
Requirements:
✔️ Must be an actual human.
✔️ Must be 17 years of age or older.
✔️ Must be a music creator abiding by the rules of this musicorloseittv subreddit community.
✔️ Must be a music creator posting using either your personal profile or your brand profile as a music entertainer.
Ineligible:
🚫 Profiles run by publicists, music labels, or channels hosting performers.
🚫 People posing as other humans using imitation avatar type creations by artificial intelligence (AI).
**🗿 Music creator’s stature status: **
Eligible:
✔️ Unsigned amateur or unsigned professional yet lesser known.
✔️ Lesser known music creators who have not yet achieved two different songs with over 500,000 views/listens and are signed to deals with small to medium-sized record companies or seeming one-song-per-time type distributors.
✔️ Lesser known music creators who have not yet achieved two different songs with over 500,000 views/listens and are signed to deals with to a major label.
**📅 Release date: **
Eligible:
✔️ Your song must be published and accessible to the masses anytime between November 15^th of the prior year and 5 days before the final day of the current month.
**💽 Songwriting, singing, & recording: **
Requirements:
✔️ You must be the copyright owner of the song (lyrics and sound recording) or authorized/licensed to perform the song by the copyright owner as the first original performer.
✔️ An exception is made if your song is an authorized/licensed remix or includes authorized/licensed interpolation or sampling content by the copyright owner in collaboration with any other amateur music creator(s) or unsigned professional yet lesser known music creator(s). The aforementioned release date also applies to any remix, interpolation, or sampling content.
✔️ Collaborations within the aforementioned rules are allowed so long as the song is entered into the contest by the lead. Lead refers to the first person named in the collaboration.
Ineligible:
🚫 Copyright/trademark violations.
🚫 Songs written by artificial intelligence (AI).
🚫 Songs primarily generated artificial intelligence (AI).
🚫 Cover, parody, nor artificial intelligence (AI) imitation.
🚫 Songs likely to be very divisive for political or religious/anti-religious reasons.
🚫 Collaborations within deceased music creators akin to “Unforgettable” by Natalie Cole featuring Nat "King" Cole.
🚫 Interpolations, remixes, or samplings of a song by a creator signed to a record company of any size or signed to a one-song-per-time type distributor.
🚫 Song with hard cussing. No variations of F word, S word, C word, D word, N word (er or a), ahole word(s), or sexually vulgar words.
🚫 Extremely sexual, gang promoting, violent, or especially scary/gory/maleficent/evil aesthetic content.
🚫 Songs primarily about brands. For example: “I Love Driving Such-And-Such Brand Name Trucks.”
**👂 Recording quality: **
Allowed:
✔️ Professional quality recordings (live or studio).
✔️ Amateur quality (including songs record in a bedroom, car, outdoors, etc…) yet reasonably pleasant sounding.
✔️ Demos are welcome.
Ineligible:
🚫 Live records with too much interfering audience noise.
🚫 Recordings with excessively poor sound quality (abrasive on the ears, difficult to hear).
**📏 Song length: **
Requirement:
✔️ Minimum of 01:15 minutes up to 10:00 minutes.
**💻 Distribution venues: **
Requirements:
✔️ A song published and accessible to the general public masses at a well-known music website such as YouTube, SoundCloud, or Bandcamp.
✔️ A song uploaded to a channel hosting live performances is allowed so long as the song is entered into the contest directly by the creator and so long as the creator confirms permission by the channel. Confirmation can be done in either your original upload URL link source or at this community within your posts’ body-text section or a reply to the post.
✔️ The song’s upload date must be visible at the distribution venue website.
⚠️ If you enter this contest with a Spotify or TikTok URL link, ensure you’ve provided a link for the entire song (not a teasesampler) in a manner that does not require login; ensure the publish date is visible; and be weary of looping flashing visuals necessitating a “⚠️Possible Seizure Trigger Risk Warning.” Failing to do this will result in ineligibility.
Ineligible:
🚫 Login required to access the song.
🚫 Payment required to access the song.
🚫 Uploads of songs directly to Reddit.
🚫 Links not fully available to the public such as an “unlisted” YouTube video.
**🖼️ Song’s artwork: **
Definition: artwork refers to the image/drawing/photo/visuals accompanying your individual song at a music distribution venue such as YouTube, SoundCloud, or Bandcamp. It is sometimes referred to as “cover art.”
Requirements:
✔️ You must be the original creator of the song’s accompanying artwork.
✔️ Alternatively, you must be the copyright owner of the artwork if you paid to have it made. Otherwise you must be authorized/licensed to publish the artwork as part of the presentation of your song.
✔️ Artwork primarily generated by artificial intelligence (AI) is allowed so long as you are authorized/licensed by the AI source to publish the artwork as part of your song’s public presentation. However this is advised against because public sentiment may be hostile towards AI generated content.
✔️ If your song’s artwork uses aspects of copyrighted, creative commons, or “free” material content, you must confirm you’ve got authorization/licensing to use the content as part of your song’s public presentation. Confirmation can be done in either your original upload URL link source or at this community within your posts’ body-text section or a reply to the post.
✔️ Your own logo that you own the copyright to may be displayed in the song’s accompanying artwork (including on a person wearing a hat or T-shirt).
Ineligible:
🚫 Copyright/trademark violations.
🚫 Parody notably displayed in the artwork.
🚫 Visible logos of any brand other than your own logo as a music entertainer.
🚫 Extremely sexual, gang promoting, violent, or especially scary/gory/maleficent/evil aesthetic content.
**🎥 Song’s music video (optional): **
Including a link to a music video is optional.
Requirements:
✔️ You must be the original creator of the song’s music video visuals including: animation; moving graphics; prominently featured still artwork or photos.
✔️ Alternatively, you must be the copyright owner of all the video’s visuals if you paid to have them made. Otherwise you must be authorized/licensed to publish all the video’s visuals as part of the presentation of your song’s accompanying music video.
✔️ Visuals (including: animation; moving graphics; prominently featured still artwork or photos) primarily generated by artificial intelligence (AI) are allowed so long as you are authorized/licensed by the AI source to publish the artwork as part of your song’s public presentation. However this is advised against because public sentiment may be hostile towards AI generated content.
✔️ If your song’s accompanying music video uses aspects of copyrighted, creative commons or “free” material, you must confirm you’ve got authorization/licensing to use the copyrighted material as part of your song’s public presentation within the accompanying music video. Confirmation can be done in either your original upload URL link source or at this community within your posts’ body-text section or a reply to the post.
✔️ Your own logo that you own the copyright to may be displayed in the video (including on a person wearing a hat or T-shirt).
✔️ Allowed music videos include “Official Music Video,” “Live Performance,” “Dance Video Version,” “Animated Video,” or “Lyrics Video.”
✔️ If you opt for an “Animated Video” or a “Lyrics Video,” you must be authorized/licensed to publish all the video’s visuals as part of the presentation of your song’s accompanying music video. If you hire an animator or use AI or an app/software designed to create music video lyrics, you must be authorized/licensed by the animator or AI source or app/software creator to publish the animation and/or lyrics as part of the presentation of your song’s accompanying music video.
✔️ If you opt for a “Dance Video Version,” the dancing and/or choreography must be originally created for your song’s accompanying music video. If you hire a choreographer and/or dancers or collaborate for free or for barter, you must be authorized/licensed by the choreographer and/or dancers to publish the video’s dancing/choreography visuals as part of the presentation of your song’s accompanying music video.
✔️ “Official Audio” type music videos are allowed so long as an accompanying still image complies with the aforementioned “Song’s artwork” rules. Alternatively, if the “Official Audio” music videos has moving visuals, it must comply with these above-mentioned “Song’s music video” rules.
✔️ “Live Performance” music videos may be made from your home/cafield (pretty much anywhere decent and reasonable) or from one of your well-recorded performances from a show. Be sure to avoid copyright and trademark violations in the video.
⚠️ Brief uses of music distribution venue logos at the end or start of a music video may be allowed at mod’s discretion, when the intent is to inform the viewer of venue availability of the song. This is however discouraged unless the distribution venue, at their website, specifies this is allowed. Music videos that display any trademark logos (other than the music creator’s own copyrighted logo) entirely throughout are ineligible.
Ineligible:
🚫 Copyright/trademark violations.
🚫 Notable use of virtual reality program recordings.
🚫 Notable use of filters from apps/websites similar to Snapchat.
🚫 Parody of intellectual property characters prominently displayed in the video.
🚫 Notably visible logos of any brand other than your own logo as a music entertainer.
🚫 Notable display of brand products with visible logos including but not limited to toys, stuffed animals, autos, hats, T-Shirts.
🚫 Extremely sexual, gang promoting, violent, or especially scary/gory/maleficent/evil aesthetic content.
🚫 Limitations on involving minors (under 18 yo): no minors doing dangerous stunts; no depictions of minors participating in drugs/drinking/smoking or very sexual behavior (including sexual dancing); do not prominently feature children that are not your own in the video (exception may be made if a relative only allows you to involve their children).
⚖️ Quantities:
Requirements:
✔️ One song per music creator’s brand identity.
✔️ If a music creator uploads more than one of their brands’ potentially eligible songs, the music creator must inform mod which song they prefer to be included in the contest.
✔️ A music creator may win this Song Of The Month contest up to three consecutive times. If this happens, thereafter the creator must abstain from the contest for the next month and then may return to the contest after that 1-month eligibility hiatus.
Ineligible:
🚫 Every collaboration will not automatically be considered a new brand. For example, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss collaborating one time should not be considered a brand. Robert Plant & Alison Krauss making an entire album together should be considered a brand. Music creators attempting to enter multiple songs under multiple brand names will be scrutinized. If there is no social media presence for any additional brands, their songs will likely be rejected as “also eligible” by mods. If this happens, the music creator will have to enter only 1 song.
**🖱️ Accounts you may post from: **
Requirements:
✔️ Your post must be made directly from either your personal Reddit account profile or your brand’s Reddit account profile.
✔️ If you have a medical condition necessitating aid, on your behalf, you may appoint a publicist, manager, caretaker, helper, spouse, partner, friend, guardian, or family member to post from either your personal Reddit account profile or your brand’s Reddit account profile.
✔️ If your song is from a band, group, choir, orchestra, or duo brand, the post must be made directly from either from one of the members’ personal Reddit account profiles or from your brand’s Reddit account profile.
✔️ If your song is collaboration, the post must be made directly from either the lead’s personal Reddit account profile or from the lead’s brand Reddit account profile.
✔️ If you want another song to be a part of the contest from another brand identity you are involved with, the song must be posted by a Reddit account profile for that separate brand – or one of the brand collaborators’ personal Reddit account profile.
👩🏾‍🏫 Presentation at this musicorloseittv community:
Requirements:
✔️ You must post a link to the song at this musicorloseittv community by tapping “+” on smartphone or clicking “+Create a post” on desktop/laptop. You must select the “My Song” flair.
✔️ Your post must be done by the “Title & Link Share Only method.”
✔️ The song’s URL you provide must be of the standalone song upload - not part of a playlist URL link.
✔️ You may post an audio only upload URL link (such as an individual song published at SoundCloud or Bandcamp). Alternatively, you may post a music video link from a venue like YouTube.
✔️ You may include a smartlink for the individual song (not album or playlist) within your posts’ body-text section or a reply to the post.
✔️ You may title the post whatever you want within the community’s rules and the contest’s rules. Remember: no vague titles; limit post title emojis to no more than 2 (if you decide to use them); and don’t request feedback.
✔️ Your post title may be done in the style of “Entertainer - Song Tile” (or something similar). Alternatively, the post title may be more elaborate. For example: “This Is My Latest Song. It’s About A Wonderful Time I Fell In Love.”
✔️ In your posts’ body-text section or in a reply comment, optionally you may share details about the song that you feel the audience would enjoy knowing.
**📝 Needed information: **
Requirements:
✔️ Within either your posts’ body-text section or within a reply comment at your post, provide the following information – as is:
❇️ Contest entry for your consideration:
• Entertainer's Name - Song Title:
• Published on: [Insert date & year. Refers to date published at your URL link source]
• Genre:
• I am an independent creator unsigned I am signed to [insert label name]
• Interpolations/remixes/samplings disclosure: N/A this song contains authorized/licensed interpolations/remixes/samplings [specify] of another song released since 11/15 of the prior year in collaboration with other unsigned music creator(s)[specify]. The link to the original song is [insert URL link – publish date from URL link source must be visible].
• Al disclosure: N/A. A portion of this [song/artwork/music video] is created by Al. Explanation: [specify if this applies to song/artwork/music video].
• Copyright disclosure for song: I confirm I’m the copyright owner of all the contents of this song (lyrics and recording) as it is presented including the artwork [(if applicable) and music video]
Copyrighted content I am authorized/licensed to use commercially in the promotion of my song include: [insert details]
• [optional/voluntary] Confirmation of substantial human involvement: A real human substantially arranged/compose this music. [Note: This type disclosure is strongly encouraged by creators who use instrument sounds and beats from apps/software in substation of instruments played live at the time of recording. This is especially encouraged for music creators who do not show their face and/or don’t show themselves creating the music in a music video or behind the scenes video. For music fans opposed to music primarily created by AI, this type of disclosure can be helpful and assuring.]
• Lyrics: [insert URL link or embed URL link into “Lyrics” text] [note if the lyrics are available at the upload source] [only if you're the copyright owner of the lyrics, you may entirely include them] [type “vocalized” or “instrumental” if applicable]
Ineligible:
🚫 Uploads of songs to Reddit.
🚫 No engagement pleas disguised as feedback requests in post titles nor in your posts’ body-text section. No feedback requests.
**👨🏼‍⚖️ Copyright/trademark compliance: **
‣ Important note: Aforementioned rules already state you either must be the copyright owner of the content you enter for this contest or you must be authorized/licensed to commercially use the content by the copyright owner. Aforementioned rules already state you must disclose use of copyrighted, creative commons, or “free” material. Mods reserve the right to ask for additional proof for confirmation. Suspected violations will be removed at mod’s discretion. You are strongly encouraged to upload your best, newest, utmost original content.
‣ Resources:
U.S. Copyright Office, Copyright in General https://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-general.html
What Musicians Should Know about Copyright by U.S. Copyright Office https://www.copyright.gov/engage/musicians
U.S. Copyright Office Fair Use Index by U.S. Copyright Office https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use
**🤝 Mutual Support **
Requirements:
✔️ You must be active in the musicorloseittv community regarding mutual support and engagement with other posts. You must post a comment reply to at least two other posts of any kind at the musicorloseittv community before the final day of the month. Failing to do so will result in disqualification.
Ineligible:
🚫 Posting then ghosting the community.
**😎👍 Encouraging fans to vote: **
Ineligible:
🚫 You are not allowed to ask for votes in anywhere in the musicorloseittv community’s comments section.
🚫 Music creators may not offer anything to anyone whatsoever in exchange for voting for them.
Allowed:
✔️ If you see a music fan has voted for you, you may thank them in a reply comment.
✔️ You may make social media posts at venues like X/Twitter, Facebook, Threads or your YouTube channel’s Community feed to encourage your fans to join this musicorloseittv subreddit community and vote for your song.
Example post:
My song “Song Title” is a finalist for Best Song Of The Month at the musicorloseittv community at Reddit. At [insert URL link] please vote for me and my song. Thank you.
**📜 Rules adherence: **
‣ Important note: If you are new to the musicorloseittv community as either a music fan voting or music creator entering the contest, latitude may be given as you get familiar here. It’s up to mod’s discretion.
‣ Important note: This contest is just for fun. Likewise playing boardgames or cards with friends is also just for fun yet people expect rules to be followed.
**🕊️ Truthfulness: **
Requirements:
✔️ Contestants and voters are expected to behave honorably and ethically.
Ineligible:
🚫 If anyone is ever discovered cheating or being dishonest akin to author James Frey or music entertainers Milli Vanilli, they will be disqualified and also likely be banned from this community.
Additional Info
If you do not want to be in the contest yet want to continue sharing your songs in this community, it is totally ok. Please inform the moderator. A “Message the mods” option is at the homepage.
In circumstances where uncertainty arises due to an unforeseen issue not addressed here in this outline of rules, moderators reserve the right to approve or disapprove eligibility. Moderators reserve the right to disqualify any song for any reason. Unfortunately, not every contest can perfectly satisfy all participant hopefuls.
Just do your best, don’t take it too seriously, and have fun.
Thank you.
END

I mostly understand the new leveling, food, evolve features. And it's a bit depressing how many max 4 Star units I have waiting the old systems evolution. While re-exploring my options I noticed some of my critters have 6 RED stars. I for the life of me can't remember how I got those guys to be RED and not purple. Is the red stars still a thing, I saw nothing about star color changes in my YouTube video searching for the functionality of the new system? Any advice on this would be appreciated. Ty

Hey there! I'm a 19-year-old aspiring software engineer and self-proclaimed geek from California. In my free time, I love exploring the great outdoors—whether it's boating on the weekends, hiking scenic trails, or playing sports with friends. I'm also fascinated by true crime and can spend hours engrossed in documentaries or podcasts on the subject. Additionally, I'm passionate about giving back to my community through volunteering. Described as a fun-loving individual, I enjoy spending time with my close-knit group of friends, but I'm always eager to expand my social circle. If you're looking for an engaging conversation, tech advice, or just a friendly chat, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm also infatuated with tattoos so if you have any feel free to share, Let's skip the small talk and build some meaningful connections!

My 10 year old loves to fish and I’ve decided to give it the ole college try. My dad loved to fish and tried (unsuccessfully) to get me “hooked” in my youth. Sadly, dad can’t take over for me here because he passed a few years back. I purchased an ugly stick 6’6” combo and some lures. I have successfully put 8 lb mono onto the spinning reel. I’m practicing knots in mono. Have pulled off a uni and a double uni with confidence. I live in central NC and most of our fishing will be freshwater lakes. What are some setups that I need to learn? To this point it has been bobbers and worms for the kiddo, but I’d like to learn so I can teach him stuff. I have been watching YouTube vids from Fishing with Nat and Just the lil fishing as well. I guess my biggest concern is. Other than hook, split shot weight, bobber and a worm what else can I do. Thanks in advance.

It replaced the old tubing spot

I'm 37 from Massachusetts, I'm looking for someone who shares the same interests as me start things slowly and see where this road will take us. I don't like to force things nor do I have expectations I would like to find my player 2 but, I am more than comfortable with just having new friend's. Distances doesn't matter as long as the end game is to see each other.
I am looking for someone who has some of the same Interest as me. I am an avid gamer. I play all kinds of game's sandbox, rpg, platformer, mmorpg's WoW, FFXIV, New world, Diablo. Shooter's, battle royals, etc. Titles like 7 days to die, Valheim, the forest, Resident evil, Battlefield, dying light, the Witcher 3, kingdom hearts, uncharted, the last of us, Final Fantasy etc. I am currently hooked on survival games would be cool to have someone to play them with or any Co-Op games in general.
I listen to music a lot. I listen to almost every thing minus country and pop. There are a few songs from those genres that I think are pretty good, but overall I don't really listen to them. I mainly listen to rock, metal, indie, emo, punk and subgenres of rock. I am also very big with EDM, not dubstep, not a fan of it. More into house, Trance and Vocal trance mainly artist like Tiesto, Dash Berlin, Axwell, Alesso, to name a few. If you like trance then I promise I will love you forever!!
I am also a big movie junkie. I am up to watching almost anything. I enjoy a lot of action movies and comedies. I am a big fan of old school action movies. Die hard, Terminator, Predator, Lethal weapon, Rocky, Rambo and etc. I am also into Star Wars and Lord of the ring's I also enjoy all DC and MARVEL.
I enjoy reading manga and watching anime but I am really behind on that. I've been very busy with work and when I'm not occupied with work I would usually chill and watch a show or game. I am a huge bleach fan and currently really enjoying demon slayer and my hero academia.
My DM's are open feel free to reach out to me. I prefer voice chatting, texting is just as fine. I have discord if you prefer to use that.

Hi all, after 8 years of wanting a Samoyed, I am finally pulling the trigger and adopting one from a reputable breeder. Seeking some guidance here.
CONTEXT
This is my first pet. I grew up around dogs and always loved them. Unfortunately living under the same roof as my grandma meant that I wasn't allowed to have any pets.
I am 30 yo and work from home. My office is upstairs and the master bedroom is on ground level. I bought a 42" crate which I have placed in the bedroom. Currently have a 24x24x8 play pen, and a 200in retractable screen to divide the living room into a play area. I plan on crate training him. He'll be 10-11 weeks old when I pick him up.
DAILY SCHEDULE (TENTATIVE)

• 6AM-630AM - wake up, potty, train, meal #1, play (supervised)
• 630AM-9AM - back into crate for nap time
• 9AM-930AM - wake up, potty, train, play (supervised)
• 930AM-12PM - back into crate for nap time
• 12PM-1230PM - wake up, potty, train, meal #2, play (supervised)
• 1230PM-3PM - back into crate for nap time
• 3PM-330PM - wake up, potty, train, play (supervised)
• 330PM-6PM - back into crate for nap time (I will use that time to go to the gym)
• 6PM-630PM - wake up, potty, train, meal #2, play (supervised)
• 630PM-9PM? - in the play pen in the living room, currently have a 24x24x8 play pen, and a 200in retractable screen to divide the living room into a play area.
• 9PM - potty, back into the crate
• 12AM - potty, back into the crate
• 3AM - potty, back into the crate
• 6AM - repeat....

QUESTIONS
1) As part of the crate training, he's going to be spending a good amount of time in the crate during the day. I want to make sure he doesn't develop separation anxiety whenever he goes into the crate knowing that I'm at home. How do I make sure my dog doesn't develop SA?
2) This brings me to my second point, should I get another crate to place in my office so that he can sit next to me while I work. I'd move him from the downstairs crate if I hear him crying (whining is ok). I could also let him free roam in my office until he calms down. My desk is tidy, all cables are zip tied beneath the desk, and my power cords from my workspace are in a plastic cable spine which is blocked off by a subwoofer on the floor.
3) How do you work on barking? Tips on how to calm a dog down when they're barking uncontrollably assuming that I'm not neglecting their basic needs.
4) Where should I feed my dog & keep his water bowl? I was thinking having a water bowl near his crate but also his play pen in the living room.
5) Any other suggestions / tips are greatly appreciated. :)

I was recently asked by my mother to review the portfolio that their financial advisor has them in. My parents retired in 2021. They had about $1m in their retirement accounts when they left their jobs, but of course their portfolio value was inflated due the post-COVID bull period.
Their portfolio is now around $700k. They draw around $4500/month cash from their retirement. They have not been withholding taxes on their IRA withdrawals. 😞
Before they retired they got connected with an advisor that a friend of theirs “has used for years!”
The advisor had them pull everything out of my fathers employer sponsored retirement plan (including converting an old pension worth ~$1300/month which he had them take the cash payout and put in their IRA) and move it into an IRA that he managed for them and picked all the funds for them.
My parents were both unfamiliar with the phrase “expense ratio” until I explained it to them a few weeks ago. The more I dug I the more shocked I was.
Their advisor is charging them 2% of assets under management for his services.
His services amount to: 1. two one-hour long meetings to review their status per year

1. Free filing of their taxes with either 1040A or 1040-EZ (1040 requires an upcharge)
   
2. They did their will (forgot their living will, though)…looks like mine does from Legal Zoom
   
3. Guidance on ACA (they retired before 65), Medicare signup and supplemental plan selection every year
   

Essentially this advisor has my parents heavily in four funds, which are:

1. Direct analog to the S&P 500
   
2. Direct analog to VTIAX
   
3. Some kind of crypto ETF
   
4. Cash equivalent account of about $80k
   

The first three funds were all charging a 1% expense ratio. I didn’t take notes on the specific funds and don’t have my browser history available to go look back on the specific funds.
What am I missing here? Where is the justification for them spending 3% of their assents per year for these services? Is that the going rate?
For context I’ve got my IRA and post-tax investments with Vanguard and use a fiduciary every year to review and guide me which costs me a flat $2k/year. I’m used to seeing <.1% expense ratios.

I am 27 years old and everytime i see a balloon that i like, i want to buy or get (some stores give for free as advertisement), but i am ashamed of getting. They make me happy af but well, i think that it haves a "judgement" about this because i am not a child.

I'm 37 from Massachusetts, I'm looking for someone who shares the same interests as me start things slowly and see where this road will take us. I don't like to force things nor do I have expectations I would like to find my player 2 but, I am more than comfortable with just having new friend's. Distances doesn't matter as long as the end game is to see each other.
I am looking for someone who has some of the same Interest as me. I am an avid gamer. I play all kinds of game's sandbox, rpg, platformer, mmorpg's WoW, FFXIV, New world, Diablo. Shooter's, battle royals, etc. Titles like 7 days to die, Valheim, the forest, Resident evil, Battlefield, dying light, the Witcher 3, kingdom hearts, uncharted, the last of us, Final Fantasy etc. I am currently hooked on survival games would be cool to have someone to play them with or any Co-Op games in general.
I listen to music a lot. I listen to almost every thing minus country and pop. There are a few songs from those genres that I think are pretty good, but overall I don't really listen to them. I mainly listen to rock, metal, indie, emo, punk and subgenres of rock. I am also very big with EDM, not dubstep, not a fan of it. More into house, Trance and Vocal trance mainly artist like Tiesto, Dash Berlin, Axwell, Alesso, to name a few. If you like trance then I promise I will love you forever!!
I am also a big movie junkie. I am up to watching almost anything. I enjoy a lot of action movies and comedies. I am a big fan of old school action movies. Die hard, Terminator, Predator, Lethal weapon, Rocky, Rambo and etc. I am also into Star Wars and Lord of the ring's I also enjoy all DC and MARVEL.
I enjoy reading manga and watching anime but I am really behind on that. I've been very busy with work and when I'm not occupied with work I would usually chill and watch a show or game. I am a huge bleach fan and currently really enjoying demon slayer and my hero academia.
My DM's are open feel free to reach out to me. I prefer voice chatting, texting is just as fine. I have discord if you prefer to use that.

Allow me to set the scene on an alleged evening:
It’s that first HOT day of the year, the one where you know summer is right around the corner. After a long day, you head out for your evening drive.
The car: 99 NB, mostly stock
Fire the car up. No check engine lights #nice
The odometer: 99,987
Tonight’s the night!
Queue up ol’ faithful, the “Miata” playlist; shuffled, “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac starts you off
“Now here you go again 🎶”
The sun is setting as you get on the freeway, headed east, to enjoy the colors in the sky. The evening traffic is lazy, a few cars, plodding their way from A to B.
Odometer: 99,992
the opening chords to “Free Bird” play
“God works in mysterious ways”, you think, “but this makes too much sense”
Odometer: 99,994
“Cause I’m as free as a bird now, and this bird you cannot change” #relatable
Odometer: 99,997
You start to creep up in speed, following the ever increasing pace of the song: 65, 70, 75, 80. You begin to overtake cars, using all three lanes safely, but confidently (with a turn signal for every move)
Odometer: 99,998
The guitar solo urges you ever faster: 85, 90, 94, 95
Odometer: 99,999
The drums are rolling and you are too: 96, 97, 98
In a symphony almost as great as the one blaring through the speakers, you crack 100mph as the odometer ticks over
100,000
You slow as the song comes to an end, the grin on your face nearly as wide as the car you’re in.
“Welcome to the next chapter, old girl” you say, patting the dash.
The next song starts, Bob Seger’s gentle guitar strums welcoming in “Night Moves”
Odometer: 100,001
Times in that car, those are “night moves” I will always remember.