Around the Grid

Second Life birth date: October 11, 2007

This is currently the favorite avatar in my collection, and the one I appear in most. As you can see, elegance is my preference. However, you can see me slouching around the Metaverse just as often in a pair of baggies and a T-shirt from a university or Abbott’s Aerodrome. It all depends on the time of day and the setting. Raves aren’t quite my thing, but I wouldn’t turn away the opportunity to visit one if the music was good.

Music is a driving force with me, given my name. It’s very easy to find music, especially in stream-happy Second Life; finding good music can be another matter. I’m old enough to remember the great singer-songwriters of the Seventies and their hits, ranging from Carole King to James Taylor; and the other performers such as Barry Manilow, Melissa Manchester, even the Carpenters and the Captain and Tennille! Add to that enjoyment of folk, Celtic and classical, and you get an interesting ragout of musical taste indeed.

Art is a top draw for many to Second Life. As such, I have opened a store with OnRez, and I may take an actual storefront if I do well enough (or feel flush enough). Stop in to Harper’s Fine Art and Photographs for your framed art needs. (We also do commission work!)

Another interest in world is building. You have to admit that Second Life can often be breathtakingly beautiful, and I’m not talking about the fashion! This is due to the creativity of the Residents, and I would like to share in that creativity. I used to be a fair hand at designing homes in The Sims; why not here, where things are much more in my ability to manipulate?

Other things that I enjoy include chess, reading, writing (obviously), art, fashion (of course, in this world!), hairstyles (major!), history — and whatever strikes my fancy at the time (grin). What often strikes my fancy, though, is conversation. You must admit that Second Life makes a spectacular place for socializing — for instance, I’m sitting in a club in that photo above. I’ve struck up interesting conversations and acquaintances with all sorts of people, none of whom I’ve ever met in RL. While I’m slow to grant formal “friendship” status, I’m usually willing to exchange calling cards with you if you’re an interesting conversationalist.

And, of course, I hope you’ll find my thoughts here entertaining, informative and, occasionally, thought-provoking. Come on with me for the ride, and let’s see where this exciting new life takes us all!