Medici University Coming Soon-Apply Now

LEA23 Medici University coming soon... apply now.   Check out this link for all the details: http://mediciuniversity.co.uk/

"Taxy! To the Zircus"

"Taxy">http://vimeo.com/115523041">"Taxy! To the Zircus"
from Eupalinos">http://vimeo.com/eupalinos">Eupalinos Ugajin on Vimeo.https://vimeo.com">Vimeo.>


Video on "Taxy! To the Zircus"  installation by Eupalinos Ugajin... Hurry over.  Only a couple days left on MetaLES.


Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/MetaLES/128/128/21

Songs of Solitude

http://issuu.com/karatrapdoor/docs/songs_of_solitude_pdf


http://issuu.com/karatrapdoor/docs/songs_of_solitude_pdf/1




If you are curious about my most recent project please take the link above.  I hope you enjoy it!

Merry Christmas

You may have noticed I haven’t been blogging this week.  Besides getting ready for RL holiday events I’ve been working on a little SL book in hopes of passing them out as Christmas presents to my friends list.  So If you are on my list you should get one soon, and if not and you’d like a copy just respond here or IM/drop me a note inworld and hopefully I will see it and pass you one.  If you don’t get one this week, just harass me later or IM if you see me online, but note I will be on vacation for a week Dec. 29-Jan 4.    The books are copy/transfer so can be re-gifted or used as stocking stuffers.   I also hope to get it up on Issue at some point so it might be easier for some to read it there than to rez an intellibook inworld.  I’m not going to provide a “teaser” here because I want to pass them out inworld before blogging anything more about it, but I wanted to get out a huge thank you to a few friends I asked to contribute to the project.  I conceived this book idea about a week ago inspired by a friend, so thanks also for working with me on such short notice!  I realize some of it was very personal for some of you.   Special thanks to: Yohann Emoto, Kathy Nikolaidis, Enigmatic Deir, Aeonix Aeon, Dividini Shostakovich, Sonicity Fitzroy, Rogue Braveheart, and Phi Mayo.  I have such wonderful, generous, and talented friends to be thankful for.  To everyone who ends up with a copy, please take the time to especially review the works of the above people as I believe some of it was done boldly and from the heart and deserves recognition.  The book will additionally include some special landmarks and web links for added enjoyment.  Thanks everyone for being a part of and enhancing my Second Life as well as my First Life and for allowing me to share this project with you in return.  Merry Christmas.

Kiki's Burlesque Christmas Show

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LORII%20CAPRONI%20ISLAND/128/128/2
Official web site here: http://www.kikishob.us/


Kiki Marjeta (Kiikiidoll) of Kiki's House of Burlesque put on a great holiday show tonight 12-14-14.  The dancers, costumes, sets, special effects, and venue were very impressive.  The venue had over 50 in attendance and things rezzed quickly.  I was glad to see hair, costumes, and movements work so well in such a place with all the visitors and gorgeous decorations. Santa made quite the appearance and the girls did a great job keeping him and the crowd entertained.   The show times vary so stop in and pick up a subscribe or group and watch for further notices or check their official web site. 







Of course there were a few side things happening that were quite interesting as well as the show.  I was sitting next to a friend who actually told me about the show, Enigmatic Deir, when suddenly a lady in a white demo wedding dress plopped on his lap (the seats are for singles or couples) and she began making out with him.  I know he didn't want to lose his spot and so of course that must have been why he didn't immediately hop up off his chair when she began to undress.. yes.. that was his reason, I'm sure. So once she was fully nude, continuously making out with him even changing the poses, I had to nudge him because he was so so focused on the wonderful show to grasp the situation.. so he said.  You never know what might happen in burlesque but what happens in burlesque stays in burlesque.  Actually other than that the crowd in attendance was very classy, mostly dressed in beautiful formal and semi formal attire just adding to the ambiance of the beautiful décor and holiday colors. 


★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
☆(¸.·'´★(`'·.¸(`'·.¸ * ¸.·'´)¸.·'´)☆(¸.·'´
KIKI'S HOUSE OF BURLESQUE and; DANCE!!!!!
☆(¸.·'´ ☆(¸.·'´(¸.·'´ * `'·.¸)`'·.¸).☆(¸.·'´
     
 Lorii Caproni Island 138, 37,1601

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Treat yourself and your partner to a day out at our lavish playhouse.
Order a drink from our fully stocked bar and enjoy some of the most
elegant, beautiful, dancers in SL as they sway to a variety of tunes.
Professionally choreographed dances and sets with a wide range of
costumes hand picked for each set.
Themed Shows and Dancers Open Theme Nights !!!
Be sure to touch our subscribe-o-matic or group joiner as you enter
the playhouse to be notified of upcoming shows !!
􀀀
:❈:❈Some topless and nude dancing, you must be 18 or older to enter:❈:❈
          :           ❈:❈all guests will be carded at the door❈:❈
Performances by the O O H  L A  L A  D A N C E R S !!
★The sets.
         ★The songs.
                 ★The dances. 
                        ★The Fashions.
                               ★The choreography.
                                         ★and ohhhhhh the Sexxxy !!

The Dirty Grind Independent Artist Community

Explore LIght and Dark in Second Life, Never Ending and Gethsemane

I explored a light and a dark place today in Second Life, both very interesting in their own ways.

 First I saw Never Ending visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Siren/128/128/23


This cute and fun sim loaded with so many great pose, photography and explore spots is owned by Nasukei, Papillon, Never Ending, Be happy: )   This whimsical winter land is absolutely a must visit.. take my word for it and just go.  I first saw it on Honour Mcmillan's blog and when there also ran into fellow blogger Ziki Questi who was in some pose spots with Finn so I captured them in a shot and Ziki's dark outfit was a nice contrast to the white in a scenic spot.  This is a multi-level explore so be sure to enter teleport doorways, go into the light in the castle, pick up a gift, etc., in other
words, explore well for optimal pleasure  : ) and enjoy.


Then I visited Gethsemane, visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Siren/128/128/23
This dark sim I visited today is also very scenic filled with dragons, fantasy creatures, dark seating and photographic spots.  I changed clothes for the occasion and also took a couple of pics here for you to see. Home and Haven to lords of shadows this sim is owned by Abaddon Mortmagus. Ok, so yes, I put myself into the pictures because I was initially going for some fantasy selfies but the sims were both so blog worthy, I am using them here. : )

LAQ Free Angel Chimes

Marketplace here: https://marketplace.secondlife.com/p/LAQ-Decor-Angel-Chimes-Gift/4951703








I found this little item on SL Marketplace as a free gift from LAQ. I totally love this, as it's so well made, looks real, spins like real, chimes, is 1 prim, and it's free.  What more could you ask for? Thank you very much LAQ. 

Calas Galadon's Noel-Explore Second Life

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Breakfree/128/128/20








I blog this sim every year, but it's so worth everyone going for a visit.  Calas Galadhon's Noel, by Ty Tenk and Truck Meredith-A beautiful winter sim with skating, sleigh rides, many nice pose and contemplation spots and the big buildings to enjoy a bit of Christmas in SL.  The park's official web site can be seen here: http://calasgaladhon.com/

Scrumptious Sweets Madpea Advent Calendar Today Through Jan 4th

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Grantville/128/128/55





Vist the Madpea blog for all the daily prize info. how to play, etc here: http://madpea.blogspot.com/


Today starts the latest Madpea adventure.  Contrasting greatly with the prior adult rated murder mystery hunt, this whimsical delightful candyland is full of fun gatcha and "for purchase" items in little huts along the trail.  With your $100 L hud purchase you can play along with the clues provided to hunt for and obtain a daily prize, one new one per day, starting today Dec 1 and finishing up Jan. 4th 2015. Be sure to eat before you enter because I know those cookies really made me hungry. Bon appetite!

The Dirty Grind-Explore Second Life

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Fender/83/78/34


I've been exploring The Dirty Grind. My friend E showed me this cool place that has an overall steampunk theme with much to offer including some of the main attractions such as a live music venue, Jasmine's Hollow, beautiful nature areas to enjoy with a friend, shopping, some residential rentals in the same theme, engine room, dark woods, bakery, game lounge and dock areas. The beautiful game room houses a bar, Greedy, Triumph, and Cards Against Humanity. Most of the larger areas are loaded with some great art too. The whole area is rich in color. As I wandered the grounds I found a small cave area and later found a large underground tunnel system you can walk and also boat through to find secret rooms. There are plenty of cuddle areas and some great photographic scenery. The sim is very well put together and is well worth a long visit or many. I've included this week's live music schedule on one of my photos.





I took some info. directly off their Promos that states: ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ Welcome to The Dirty Grind Independent Artist Community and Jasmine's Hollow www.JasminesHollow.com 􀀖 􀀕 ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ ღ ♥ Please contact Jasmine0Alaya Resident or ian mcconach with questions, comments or anything that we may be able to assist you with. "Enjoy an auditory feast as we celebrate SL's best musicians. Radio Grind features The Dirty Grind family, including Winston Ackland, Kinagree-Smith, Matthew Perreault, Xara Fiasco, Beth Odets, Donn DeVore, Red Heaven, Shannon Oherlihy, Effinjay, Deepsky Timeless, Oblee, Terrylynn Melody, and AMForte Toss into your land or player. and enjoy! ---> http://216.155.128.202:8079/ You are invited to enjoy Second Life®'s FIRST & ONLY Adirondack steampunk™ destination, an all-inclusive bohemian art retreat for interactive exploration, live music, forest, cuddles,, boating, & more! Radio Grind Rentals Gweeb's Guitars & Corsets Jasmine's Hollow™ has hours of treasures to discover and enjoy alone or with family, friends, or a special someone. It is constantly evolving, so grab an LM and know you are welcome to return or make your home! A very limited nuber of residential and commercial rentals available. Come enjoy Second Lif©e's FIRST and ONLY Adirondack Steampunk™ sim!

What are your feelings on sensory deprivation? Truthball Gallery Edition Releases, Just in Time for the Holidays

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Couture%20Boulevard/128/128/22


"What are your feelings on sensory deprivation?" This is one of the questions that comes in the BDSM version of Truthball just released in the latest of their new Gallery Edition releases in BDSM, and regular Male, and Female versions.  They can also be loaded with their other question packs.  Just in time for the gift giving holidays Truthball has released their latest versions of the ever popular game.  The Gallery versions have been released in table top size and full size in beautiful sculpture style that need to be seen in person to fully appreciate.  The male and female versions ask a variety of questions and I really enjoyed the pg chocolate questions with a friend.  Truthball owner, Leesa Donner, told me all about their products.  I have used the holiday version for a couple of years and just tried out the new gallery versions.  These really are a great way to get to know people better.  I've seen them used in clubs and at parties too.  The Gallery editions are gorgeous with colors and moving particles inside the globes.







If you are not familiar with Truthball, their promo says it best,
"Best truth or dare style game in Second Life.Wanna have some REAL fun??? Do you want to score points, have fun with your SIGNIFICANT OTHER and throw the best parties? Do you want a better way to get to know someone or have them get to know you? Play TRUTHBALL to ask the questions you NEVER would DARE to ask yourself and simply knockout your guests with fun questions that will leave a lasting WOW impression. The basic TRUTHBALL offers more questions  than any game in SL from sexy to silly, ..so you won't see duplicates for a long time. Over 50 more question sets are available for additional purchase. The game lasts for hours of fun.  You can even write your own!" TRUTHBALL is the Best Truth or Dare Game in Second Life...thousands sold.  They also have brand new question sets.

 Other versions available in the store or on SL Marketplace include: Valentine, Holiday Snowglobe (cute for Christmas as it looks like a little snowglobe with a snowman, tree, and present inside), low prim, Neko, Truthkitty, Celtic, En Espanol, Bound V.III, Ultra Low Prim, DJ, St. Patricks Day, Wedding, RL Big Issues, Get 2 Know You, Cauldron, and many other editions. Check them out on SL Marketplace here: https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/27820?search%5Bmaturity%5D=General&search%5Bpage%5D=1&search%5Bper_page%5D=12&search%5Bstore_id%5D=27820 These make great gifts for all occasions.

The Follow Returns to Second Life 11-21-14 at 6pm SLT

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dragons%20Meadow/128/128/2

 I ran over to PRMC home sim - NO CARS , Dragons Meadow (109, 134, 465) - Moderate where The Following will be playing Friday and ran into Anek Fuchs who actually owns the venue for this show, and his partner built it. The area has a multi-level bike track. I asked how many levels it is as it's hard to cam and tell and he said 3 primary levels, but it winds the rest the way down to ground level so more than 5 and he said it changes a lot. It's a very cool place and looks like fun to ride with tunneled areas and nice landscaping winding around and down.  He also told me they will have bike give-aways Friday too, so it should be a great event overall. Powers Avon also showed up to start setting up for the show stage and audience area. The event note card states:
"www.TheFollow.SL is where you can go to teleport to any of our shows With any SIM crash, relocate to The Follow Music Hub until the host SIM recovers
􀀁  or http://tiny.cc/TheFollow
www..TheFollow.com is our little place on the Internet
http://www.thefollow.com/
Calendar: http://tiny.cc/TheFollowCalendar

The Follow always puts on a great show, so be sure to go early and grab a spot.  Take a landmark and try out the public use tracks too!  Be sure to check the links as they give information about their new RL album "K" that is scheduled for a Dec 1 release date. 

I cammed way out and took a pic of the sim/track but can't do it justice at the distance as it really is beautifully landscaped in there with colorful fall trees, interesting tunnels etc., but at least you can get a feel for how the layers wind round. Anyway, hope to see everyone Friday. It's sound be a great show.

The Bad, The Ugly, and Finally the Very GOOD in SL

The bad, the ugly, and finally the good.....  I hate to share this first link perpetuating attention for someone who must not have taken any time exploring the good SL has to offer, or decidedly chose a narrow path, one which many of us easily avoid in SL. But I will, in part because it's the age old stereotype of SL that needs dispelled... which is by a response I link below.  This first post was written Nov 14th using ancient photos and reeks of someone who may not have actually ever entered SL or made any reasonable effort to do/find something productive in SL vs searching for what they obviously were looking for.   Here: http://moviepilot.com/posts/2014/11/14/these-strange-stories-prove-second-life-isn-t-the-dreamworld-you-believed-2429911?lt_source=external,manual,manual 


THEN I felt some sense of normalcy reading Inara Pey's eloquent response today here: http://moviepilot.com/posts/2014/11/18/the-strange-stories-about-second-life-that-totally-miss-the-mark--3-2445543?lt_source=external,manual,manual.
  I really enjoyed Inara's post in spite of the bitter taste left in my mouth by the  "other" post precipitating my finding Inara's.  Inara's is well worth a trip over to her blog to read and also enjoy the attached videos regardless of the reason for her post.  Enjoy the good in your Second Life!

The Secret Affair, Opens Today With Great Fantasy Shopping And a Wonderful Explore

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ippos/128/128/37


This place is an amazing explore with a wide variety of settings to get involved in.  I went there looking for a shopping event (which I haven't even found yet and have run out of time for now so will have to log back in later to look some more) and just was enveloped in beauty.  I took a quick shot last night and grabbed the link today.  I am not sure what is going on here yet, but I will find out soon.  In the mean time.. it's gorgeousness all over.  (see addendum below for the event details)






Ok I just found the main event... it's "The Secret Affair".  It's located up in the sky via a teleport from an area that is also wonderfully landscaped near the Cemetery area on the edge of the sim (water area).  
Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ippos/102/40/2998  (I think this is a direct link to the affair)


Their official blog is here: http://thesecretaffairevents.com/

The Liaison Collaborative Opens Nov 15

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Fall/128/128/17
Winter Harvest round is here: Doors open at 12AM SLT on November 15th and doesn’t close again until 11:59PM SLT on December 10th.  Check out The Liaison Collaborative official blog here: http://www.liaisoncollaborative.com/ which states: "On the 15th of each month, we bring together the best creators from across the grid for an exclusive gathering of themed items. We curate a diverse collection of products that include Clothing, Accessories, Skins, Hair, Home and Garden, and Poses and Animations"


I went in early for a sneak peek and picked up a few things I really like. 


Kathy and I wearing the new Mina hair that comes with color change hud for the hat. I also have on a dress, scarf, and mug from the event.

Tuty's Freebie Pup in Purse

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ubunil/128/128/119








Tuty's is a great place to get AOs, skins, shapes, poses, freebies, avatars, elderly avatars, etc.  This is the place I send noobs for free good male and female basic AOs too.  Anyway.. right now in their freebie section they have this cute little pup in purse and they also have a Christmas version that is the same but pup has a little santa hat on.  This item is super cute and highly detailed. 


(yeah yeah, I know I don't have my slink hands on, so be it)

Draxtor says: let's SL GO places!

Explore The Pines at Jacob's Pond

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Jacob/128/128/22


After a long weekend I sulked off to a cute relaxing winter sim to just get away and unwind.  I've been having major computer problems and struggled just to even get some photos.  But finally things were working, at least for a while, and I got a few photos of this nice place to share.  The sim is "The Pines at Jacob's Pond" by Holly  (dacotah.longfall). Holly saw and greeted me welcoming me to her sim and indicated it is open to the public and all are welcome to visit.  This sim was found at a great time for me and I just hung out by myself for a very long time.  So if you too are wanting to relax in a wintery nature area this is a nice spot to check out.

Kitty Ransom Note

Kitty ransom note..........
Anyone have muffins to contribute?

Madpea Blood Letters

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/R3VOLT/128/128/2

I decided to do the new Madpea Blood Letters hunt.  This is a nice detective murder mystery I guess.  It seems to be sort of X-rated, so no kiddos allowed, sorry.  Some of the gifts are adult rated too.  They warned us ahead of time that no kids are allowed, so yup, off we ran to try it out.  The hud is 400L but worth it in that you get the value back and thensome in all the cool gifts you get along the way, plus it's a great explore as each segment not only takes you to a store to hunt but you get a part of the story and are in a new set or scene. The sets are very well done so explorers might light this hunt just for that feature alone too.  The stores selected are great and the gift are also very good.  The way it works is every day a new letter, clues, and gift are added.  Since this runs from Nov. 1 to Nov 30 there were already 5 letters up so I went with my friend Kathy and we did the first 5 all at once, and will need to go back now each night or at some point to do the rest that will be put out in future days.  Madpea is always great, so don't miss out on this one. Sometimes their hunts are sort of long and difficult, but the way this one is set up as one per night with some cool scenes they have made keeps it interesting and the hunting is not too difficult but enough of a challenge to keep it interesting.  Anyway, enjoy .. and be sure to check their official web site too fore more information here: http://madpea.blogspot.com/2014/10/blood-letters-how-to-play.html

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum and Hot Tunes Tribute Shows 11-2-14

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Outfits/128/128/38

Facebook Issues

Seriously Facebook? I have far more contacts, business, and associations on this account than most do.  I'm not real?  Tell that to YOUR advertisers, my friends, and business partners, etc.  So much for being user friendly.  So much for keeping people happy.  So much for pen names.. those aren't legal either now? Just great.. I'd love to have a huge big rant here, but know it's worthless other than to make me feel better. I understand the issue behind this but feel in this case it's not valid.  Just Nice : (

Cica Ghost's Little Town Opens Tomorrow 10-30-14

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Taboo%20Rock/128/128/51

 "The inhabitants of Cica Ghost's Little Town have all disappeared for the day -- or maybe they're just hiding -- giving you a chance to explore their quirky, curious, humorous and delightful island."  Cica Ghost is at it again with the opening tomorrow 10-30-14 of her latest build, "Little Town at Taboo Rock".  Quite a few people were hanging out today although the official opening is tomorrow,  but people do come in out droves to see the sometimes delightful and sometimes quirky builds Cica does once the word goes out. This one is great with a sort of steampunk meets Dr. Seuss feel to it, with oddly shaped buildings, gears and whatnot.   At the landing you can pick up a free flying ventilator to help you explore airbound or just enjoy and there are also unique steampunk looking little cars one can drive around to explore as well. Even the music fits this eclectic sim that is so rich in texture and fun shaped buildings and objects. A fun place to visit! 

                    (Cica in black dress below.  Me in bottom pics in vehicle and flying ventilator)

Tropical Escape Spa, Fitness Center, and Much More -Closing Nov 1

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Tropical%20Escape/229/201/21

If you'd like to visit my "Kara's Korner Tropical Escape Spa and Fitness", it's going to close up Nov 1, so hurry on over.  This is an interactive place I put together  some time ago and is a great date place, place for families and girls nights out, photo ops, and exploring.  Some of the features include:
-Hair and body spa and salon with plenty of post/photo spots for many people.  There are also many couples/adult places. Hair styling, tattoo, hot tub, spa, pool, etc.
-Tai Chi galaxy
-Adult Turkish Bath
-Fitness and Game room including SLictionary, Greedy, Cards Against Humanity.
-Chapel for free elope or photos including free photo albums to take
-Free photo studio with many nice backgrounds
-Multiple underwater and mermaid areas
-water slide
-Mermaid  and other water areas
-Kayaking and jet ski
-Paper Airplane tour rides
-Many small couples areas to find
-Free gifts in various locations.
-Resort lodge with games and live music stage area
 and much more.
Have Fun!

Giano Estates Children's Show Teaser

Join us this Sunday for a great parade and show!

Halloween Decorations in Giano Properties 2014

Modern Day Haunted House

visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Woonsocket/200/211/25


http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Woonsocket/128/128/21 Deep in the heart of suburbia Giano Properties on a quiet little dead end street sits an un-obtrusive ranch house at #17 Lighthouse drive that is the typical middle class residential home in an average American neighborhood. But during this time of year when the veil between worlds weakens and thins, strange things are said to occur at this residence. Stop by, if you dare, to explore this unusual phenomenon now through Halloween.




 sim video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYMTNdCZqXk&feature=youtu.be

SL Live Radio New Studio Open House Party 10-14-14

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Second%20France/128/128/25


SL Live Radio will be hosting it's new studio grand opening party this Friday 10-24-14 from noon to 4pm SLT.   Today DJ Sonicity Fitzroy was hosting her show "Slow Bake" featuring SL musicians on her radio show in the new studio, so we all got a sneak peek. I took a photo so you can see how cool it is with a lot of moving lights, etc.  There are free SL Live shirts too.  We can all hang out with any of the DJ's during their shows there. 

(DJ Soni)

Follow Me, Down the Rabbit Hole-Explore Second Life

My imagination has always been piqued by the terms “rabbit hole” and “follow the white rabbit”, so much so that I’ve actually had a white rabbit in my profile pics for quite a while now, with the words, “follow me”.  I guess my insatiable curiosity just loves the idea of an adventure, exploring something magical or profound and SL is a bit like that for me sometimes not only in the explores but more so in learning about others and  myself in this virtual world through my involvement in relationships with others in an alternate setting that is real but not my reality as far as daily life and the way I conduct myself in first.  My SL experience is a great escape, adventure, learning opportunity, and a place to explore parts of my own mind I would not otherwise do or maybe have an opportunity to do in my first life.   I love to go down my SL rabbit hole, but in first life many of us would be too cautious to do as much. In some ways many people somewhat safely explore things in their SL environment and about themselves they wouldn’t do in first life.  Simplistically for example, how could I be a fairy in fairy land in first life? SL offers freedoms for many they don't have in first life.  And a more complex example would be in some of the interpersonal relationships I see in a world of anonymous reflections interacting.   At any rate, the idea of self-exploration, exploration of the unknown, and subsequent new understanding or metaphysical  “waking up” is part of the whole rabbit hole concept.  It could be expanding awareness to incorporate new ideas and achieving mind-expansion.Many books and movies such as The Matrix also reference the white rabbit in this manner. 


The other part seems to be simply exploring and enjoying the adventure for what it is.  Second Life is a good opportunity for both.  SL is my down time from first life so generally I try hard to keep things light and enjoy surface value magic, exploration and some creativity in SL,  but anyone who knows me knows that in spite of myself I can’t help but constantly contemplate all things about interpersonal relationships and also run and explore everything such as the beautiful magical wonderlands that I can in SL.  Going down the rabbit hole can represent the taste of something extraordinary with the tease of more to come.

Some say the term rabbit hole refers to drug use, as in the mind and body altering cake and drinks from the story “Alice's Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll.  Certainly the Jefferson Starship song, “Go Ask Alice” is referring to the Carroll story and drugs such as LCD/hallucinogens.  The story has Alice following the white rabbit down the hole into a wonderland where she must take the drinks/cake to proceed through a beautiful, yet strange and surreal world and story that has its risks, adventure, and ultimate desire to return home or reality, safety, and normalicy.  One can get lost in the rabbit hole with a risk of never finding ones way out.  Have you ever spent more than a few hours in SL and still not wanted to surface to first life? I think we’ve all been there.   Anyway, there are other drug annotations such as the hookah smoking caterpillar and mushrooms all around. 

My SL fantasy world and some of the amazing beautiful Sims are just such an adventure to me but without the fallout from drugs or other repercussions for behaviors first life would hold.  But again, the white rabbit is more than a drug induced trip, it represents exploration, introspection, curiosity, and is about questioning reality and ourselves.  I think going down the rabbit hole at least a little ways once in a while if fine, as long as you know your way out.  Take a chance and you might learn something about yourself and meet some great people along your voyage of discovery.  I know many run headlong, never looking back.. this is SL… enjoy.  Check out the explores.  One is pure fantasy,  the other is similar with the addition of a cool EMB (adult) club at the end. 



The Rabbit Hole, (adult) EMB Industrial Goth Club, visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Woodcreek%20Island/128/128/25

Dysphoria, (general) Oxygen Island, Alice in Wonderland visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Oxygen%20Island/128/128/47

The Rabbit hole Includes the Red Queens Throne Room (stage fancy stage area), Rose Garden Maze area, Mall area, and The Rabbit Hole Club, super cool club area. 

Dysphoria includes  Enchanted forest and gardens (fairies and sprites).
Wonderland Warren (giant rabbits).
White Rabbit's House (please do sit on the bedroom chair).
Dysphoria Forest (don't fall into the little green swamp!)
Red Queen's Castle: Turn left up into the red-lit winding-thorny-path (just before you reach the giant black widow spider).  Mushroom Circle: Some mushrooms have animations, click to see.
Mad Hatter's Tea Party: Path on the right up into the mountain, just as you reach the mushroom circle. (There are balloons in the trees at the Hatter's, you can use them to fly.)

(Above pics of Dysphoria and below, The Rabbit Hole)

“It was much pleasanter at home," thought poor Alice, "when one wasn't always growing larger and smaller, and being ordered about by mice and rabbits. I almost wish I hadn't gone down the rabbit-hole--and yet--and yet--...” ― Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland
Yes, .. and yet....
Ok, maybe I wrote a little too much here.

Way To Go Royals!

http://www.songlyrics.com/irving-berlin/what-ll-i-do-lyrics/

Halloween Tour Time

Everyone who knows me knows I love Halloween and  have done a few haunted houses myself in SL in the past.  Well it's time again for touring haunted houses and sims.  Here are a few of my favorites. All of these are excellent so check them out and have fun.

Paradise Falls, Skyrah - Khyr Ariem.  Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Paradise%20Fails/128/128/94
  This is a very haunted tour with a pumpkin hunt along the way, a maze etc.  Pretty dark.

Pumpkin Town 2014 Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Boutou/178/167/32  There's a variety of things to see and do here from a haunted house to a great explore, well worth the visit.
Halloween Town by Laura Liberty, visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Elizabeth%20Town/128/128/22 Always a favorite with a long tour through haunted movies, shopping, a pumpkin decorating contest, freebies, and more. super fun place to visit.

News and Brews Cafe and Giano Journal Launch Party 10-12-14

Kathy Nikolaidis and I have opened up a small coffee shop, The News and Brews Café, In Giano Properties, a light role play "real" type community.  We have made up a news/journal, The Giano Journal,  and will be having a launch party for both tomorrow/Sunday 10-12-14 at 4pm SLT with DJ Love.  Please join us.  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Smithfield/128/128/17


And if you'd just like to view the Giano Journal online you may view it here: http://issuu.com/kathynikolaidis0/docs/giano_journal

UWA Transcending Borders. Enter Now. Closes Oct 31st.

(Ad poster by Eliza Wierwight)


Be sure to visit the official UWA Web site with all rules and details. http://www.uwainsl.blogspot.com.au/2014/07/transcending-borders-launch-of-uwa-art.html
Visit inworld here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/UWA/128/128/24


On a personal note I will be helping to judge this round.  I have enjoyed perusing the art and machinima in the past and even won audience participation prizes. (this is a fun way to be involved and win even if not contributing to the actual contest --see their blog for details.)


Visit here: Part of their press release /initial info. about this states..."
"University of Western Australia (UWA) is happy to announce the launch of Machinima UWA VII and the 5th UWA Grand Art Challenge, with a starting prize pool of L$545,000 each. The theme is "TRANSCENDING BORDERS".  Sponsored by Tom Papas and SciFi Film Festival, LaPiscean Liberty, SL Artist, AviewTV, Arrehn Oberlander and MetaHarpers, Kip Yellowejacket and Virtlantis, Taralyn Gravois and Arts Castel Gallery, TheDoveRhone and Peace is a Choice and S&S Gallery of Fine SL Art, Barbie Alchemi of Creations for Parkinsons, Jon Stubbs, UWA Student Services, as well as the UWA Virtual Worlds Project.  The prize pool sits at L$1,090,000 (approx. USD 4,200).  We hope you are inspired by this to create many wondrous works of art and film as you have been through the years! (Please note the major rules and special prize guidelines as well as the Audience Participation Prizes for watching the machinima.  These will be on the UWA Blog and SLArtist)"

BOSL Fashion Week Begins Oct. 11th

BOSL INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK BEGINS TOMORROW, OCTOBER 11TH


The press release in part states:
"The Best of SL Magazine and BLVD Fashion House Models will present the BOSL International 2014 Fashion Week beginning tomorrow, Saturday, October 11th and run through Saturday, October 18th. The week's theme will be "A Night at the Movies" and some of the best of Hollywood films.
Celebrating BOSL's anniversary and the introduction of BOSL Emporia, the remodeled retail area and event venue, the launch show will feature designs from Ever An' Angel, the 2015 Miss Virtual World candidates will be presented on Sunday, October 12th, A Hot and Steamy movie theme will be presented on Friday, October 17th and the finale show will be dedicated to the National Alliance on Mental Illness honoring the memory of the late actor and comedian, Robin Williams.  The theme will be based on the famous movie “Aladdin.” The other shows will be a mixture of the films themes.
Following the finale show, there will be a party with music provided by SL Live. 
Participating designers include:
Artizana,,Azul, Black Lace, BlueMoon Enterprise, Castiel, CHAMPAGNE! Sparkling Couture, Desir
Dot-BE, EDELFABRIK, Ever An' Angel, K E L I N I, Luxe Paris, Lybra, Modern Couture, Prism, Romance Couture, Sascha's Designs, Son!a, The White Armory, Tres Beau ,UniQue* BoutiQue, Vero Modero, Vogue, Whimsical Imaginarium, Wicca's Closet, Y o K a n ,
Invitations with the LM to the venue will be distributed on Saturday morning, October 11th.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ABOUT BOSL & CO.
Started in 2008, this media giant has grown from an SL magazine that focused on the "Best Of" in all aspects of SL to include the following companies:
-            Best Of SL Magazine
-            Miss and Mister Virtual World Pageants
-            Miss Virtual World Modeling Academy
-            BLVD Agency now known as BLVD Fashion House
-            Fashion Feed
-            SL Associated Press known as BOSL Interactive
-            Best of SL Couture Boulevard & Renaissance Galleria Malls (Renaissance has been changed to Emporia)

Each company is focused on bring the “Best Of” in it’s own category.
ABOUT BLVD FASHION HOUSE
BLVD Fashion House is one of the longest operating agencies in SL and features some of SL's top fashion models. Being home to very special models with a discerning eye and a high level of professionalism is our acclaim. We are able to offer fashion shows that can take advantage of the immense coverage BOSL has as media to make very effective announcements for the shows, top class models and top class show productions for SL fashion designers and creators who are looking for first class fashion shows that enhance brand image. This agency is exclusive and models are welcome by invitation only. Applications are not accepted except for castings."
                                                                                       

Are you looking for me? Computer Woes

First I want to say, if you don't see me online and are looking for me, try searching up Karatrapdoor2 Resident. 

So, I began having a multitude of problems with my 2 year old alien laptop and although Dell was so kind as to come to my house on my warrantee and personally installed a new graphics card, the display screen had also gone very bad, one of the keys was bad, it randomly was getting hot (in spite of a cooling pad) I was having frequent freezez, crashes, blue screens, ac adaptor errors, etc. etc.  Needless to say, the Dell home repair dude couldn't fix all that so off it went to Dell in TX.  I tried to log on to a "lesser" laptop and cant get on Kara Trapdoor (the original).  I have tried probably no less than 50 times on 3 different viewers and I either get 2/3 of the way through the log in bar and crash or I make it in but all I see is blue screen, water or sky, I don't show online to anyone, I can't see my own av or other things, and I cant access my inventory, literally like I'm dead in the water.  So I tried someone else's  really good computer... there I can log onto Kara.  I cleaned cache, cleaned all files, rebooted the wireless router, changed my tag, hair base, put on some light clothes and went to protected land.  I still can't log onto Kara Trapdoor from this laptop I'm using while waiting for my alien to return.  This is disturbing as although I made Karatrapdoor2 for just such an occasion long ago, I never enhanced her much.  She looks about the same  but has next to 0 inventory.  I am used to having my wonderful inventory, enjoying beautiful windlights and taking photos and video, moving around smoothly, etc. 

I will say that every computer I've ever had has been a love/hate relationship for me.  I am amazed by them, love them when working, am totally enthralled really when they work.   I'm not in the least techy though, being a more physically social person than this techy stuff is,  but I have learned a few things and try to get updates, clean and defrag, etc. and use help of some very techy friends as needed.   Computers just like to give me problems.  

Bottom line, this sucks.  I'm guessing most of us have been here at some point though.  I truly feel bad for persons with low end computers in SL who can't enjoy it like I normally do.   I am very thankful for what I have had in the past.  But to top things off, this computer I'm temporarily using is Window 8.1.  Seriously annoying with 5 million popups when browsing and stuff, plus I don't get why I have to keep going to the side, top or bottom, to work stuff.. .. and  also I am not a app'y sort of person.  I want what I chose to want not what is presented to me randomly.  (From what I hear, all that is not really so random but personally selected for me based on high tech spy skills the powers that be have aimed at my personal life, saved in that magical cloud for their future ad use.  And just when we all thought that whatever goes to the cloud stays in the cloud.....apparently we were wrong about that..../me puts on bathrobe now)  Well a tiny bit of suggested stuff is ok, as I might be missing out on something great if I don't know about it, but OMG.. really? So many things just constantly thrown at me with this Windows 8.1.  Plus many things are so different everywhere online with it, like for instance even my blog auto highlights key words and then if you click on that it takes you to something with that word, not related to my blog or anything I have intent of promoting in any way.. .. its not wantd and is very annoying.  Surely there is a way to turn that off. Also through all this I have concluded McAfee must be a virus in itself.   I can only hope my alien will be back soon and in good working condition,   But it's a wake up call for me to try to clean up my inventory as I've been told Kara's big inventory may need too much ram for this little laptop.  So I fear one day the inventory may also be too much ram for my alien and then how will I get in? I do love my inventory things though.

Oh, and while we are on the subject of finding me.... Facebook recently decided that some years and many many contacts later that Kara Trapdoor must not be a real person.  I am assuredly very real.  So I changed my Facebook name to my acceptable "real" name Kara Vontrap there.  I hope you enjoy my music. 

Well.. if you need me, most likely you can find me on Karatrapdoor2 Resident in Second Life for now.  OK, rant over.   I think that was a rant... I feel like a huge rant.  Screw the alcoholic beverages, this calls for the really good stuff.  I'm going for some cookies and milk now. 

Seth Regan "Left of Center"

                      (official press release photo above)  (below photos I took at release event)  

 

 I attended the release party enjoying the music and great crowd most in steampunk gear.  The official press release for the event stated:

"SETH REGAN TO RELEASE 6TH SL CD “LEFT OF CENTER”

Sunday October 5th 2014 at 2PM SLT, Multiple Award Winning, veteran live Second Life (SL) performer Seth Regan, will be releasing his new all original SL CD “Left of Center”. This will be his 6th release since he first started started performing to global audiences within the Virtual World of SL. Seth started performing in SL in 2006 as "Mankind Tracer" and quickly rose to become one of the most recognized names in SL music, business and also in other virtual worlds.

 

The "Left of Center" EP features Seth’s popular new ballad "Only for You", the politically themed Americana anthem "One Voice" and the raw emotion of "So Many Things", among others.

For nearly 8 years, fans from all around the world continue to fill Seth's live shows in SL... and for good reason. Seth’s music is often called both “profound and insightful in music and lyrics”. He offers unique takes on the cover tunes he performs, adding his own stylings and smooth vocals. His sound is always crystal clear and the level of interaction and vibe at Seth's shows is always positive and  uplifting.

 

"I wanted to create music and lyrics which draw from, and elaborate on, some personal feelings I have on various topics and current events. Some may be romantic, some a little eerie. Some are political in nature. I only hope people will understand the metaphors and directions I might have taken."- Seth

 

”Left of Center” will be available for purchase as an SL CD at the release party for the first time and then after the party at Seth’s future SL shows in support of this release. The release party will be at a specially designed venue with a “Steampunk” theme.

 

This EP also includes a bonus track of a recently rediscovered recording of an earlier production. Seth had written and recorded "Eye of the Storm" coincidentally only a few months in advance of the devastating Hurricane Andrew which decimated South Florida in 1992 where Seth was living at the time. The song was played on the radio for some time after the storm and during the area's recovery.

 

Attendees are encouraged to dress in a steam punk theme.

The release party is open to the public and sponsored by the Lefevre and Hernandoz Foundation." 

"Only For You" Live Acoustic: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPbUzsbrt8s&list=UUDHagcyRV4JVrpQNoY5daVQ

Press Contact:
Brandy Maltas (Kalli Birman)
brandy@sethregan.com

 

Giano Properties

This is a very fun place.  Check it out some time.  Residents can drive around and participate in a variety of fun events and activities and hang out with friends in a light role play community that is almost like first life!

Bryn Oh, A Retrospective: A Second Life and First Life Exhibit

Visit official blog here: http://www.nbbd.com/festivals/ArtAndAlgorithms/index.html
Visit exhibit in SL here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LEA9/128/128/14
Visit Bryn Oh's blog here: http://brynoh.blogspot.com/

I received this press release today about Bryn Oh's invitation to exhibit RL/SL for the Art And Algorithms digital festival held Oct 3-12.

Press release reads: "I was invited, by Gary Zabel, to exhibit at the Art & Algorithms digital festival in Titusville, Florida. The focus of my participation has been in the form of a retrospective of my work spanning from 2007-2014.  http://artandalgorithms.com/
     The other segement they will focus on is my region Immersiva and specifically The Singularity of Kumiko which will be available for their guests to navigate using a kiosk at the event in Florida.  (I have informed Mr Zippers not to slaughter them while at Kumiko)


     I have always resisted doing a retrospective of my work in the past and have created this one with a great emphasis on what members of my inworld group Immersiva have requested to see. 
A few machinima examples of works included in part.  All machinima can be seen by clicking the titles at location.
Standby - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8RgAuhcBOw&list=UUI7NrJQ5vpg2PmVQKpwXSbw
Annas Many Murders
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9L7ck6fQB4&list=UUI7NrJQ5vpg2PmVQKpwXSbw&index=15
Vessel's Dream
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDfjYyNtiGE&index=44&list=UUI7NrJQ5vpg2PmVQKpwXSbw

Gashlycrumb Tinies (2008)
Condos in Heaven (2008)
7 Backspaces (2009)
Angler Girl (2009)
Daughter of Gears (2009)
Vessel's Dream (2009)
4Jetpacks4 (2009)
Willow (2009)
The Rabbicorn Story (2009)
26 Tines (2010)
The World Expo Shanghai regions 1 (No Light) 2 (No Colour) 3 (No Sound) (2010)
Lady Carmagnolle (2010)
Format (2010)
Mayfly (2010)
Avatar Games (2011)
Rusted Gears (2011)
Box (2011)
Anna's Many Murders (2011)
The Path (2011)
Gretchen and Teddy (2011)
Family Unit (2012)
Further Along the Path (2012)
The Cube Project (2012)
Standby (2012)
Virginia Alone (2012)
Imogen and the Pigeons (2013)
Dance of Death (2013)
The Singularity of Kumiko (2014)
Golden Age of the Russian Avant Garde (2014)
     The event has two regions donated by the Linden Endowment for the Arts with the second showing work by artists of the Virtual art innitiative from Caerleon island the now defunct artist collaboration.  For information on this portion of the event please contact Pixels Sideways."

A Clockwork Spiral Through October 1st.

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Cursed/178/150/1002


Visit the official blog here: http://aclockworkspiral.wordpress.com/acs-2014-map-and-landmarks/

Today I visited a Clockwork Spiral event and there is no way I could pass up getting this Fallen Gods full avatar and outfit. There are so many very cool steampunk things to see and buy there, all for a good cause.  Here is their press release info. :
"
A Clockwork Spiral is a shopping and music event featuring steampunk, steamgoth, dieselpunk, dieselgoth and dark Victoriana in Second Life to help raise money for the National Kidney Foundation.
It will be held September 15th – October 1st, 2014 on Cursed.  (It should be noted that Cursed is an Adult rated sim.) The Spiral opens at NOON on September 15th and closes at MIDNIGHT October 1st.  Both times are Pacific Time (SLT).
The Spiral hosts 40 merchants bringing in their interpretations of the theme for the visitors to shop while enjoying the atmosphere and the music of the event. As always, Club Gothika’s Mobile Unit will be present in the event area and will be the heart of the music events.
More information at: https://aclockworkspiral.wordpress.com/"

Innsmouth, For Sale

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Innsmouth/128/128/25
Darmin Darkes put out notice today Innsmouth sim needs to be sold---- so if anyone can take this over that would be great, as I love this cool sim.   Better hurry and visit before changes happen.

2-10-14 Limey Linden had this to say about the sim: http://community.secondlife.com/t5/EUREKA-The-Destination-Guide/Innsmouth/ba-p/654601 
"Innsmouth is a dark, foggy 1930s New England coastal town. The buildings are crumbling or derelict and residents are few, but if you listen carefully, you can hear... things......
Innsmouth is deeply influenced by American writer H.P. Lovecraft, who was active in the 1920s and 1930s."He's notorious for his murky prose," say Darmin, "but his strengths were in creating the underlying mood of impending doom and the deeply constructed mythos that is all part of his stories. He created an entire pre-history of our planet and the stars with his race of elder gods and their influences upon us. The sim loosely echoes the the situation of the story The Shadow Over Innsmouth with a few references to The Colour Out of Space and other bits of Lovecraftian mood."."

"He's notorious for his murky prose," say Darmin, "but his strengths were in creating the underlying mood of impending doom and the deeply constructed mythos that is all part of his stories. He created an entire pre-history of our planet and the stars with his race of elder gods and their influences upon us. The sim loosely echoes the the situation of the story The Shadow Over Innsmouth with a few references to The Colour Out of Space and other bits of Lovecraftian mood."."

Remembering 9-11

Remembering 9-11


A virtual memorial... more information at New World Notes here: http://nwn.blogs.com/nwn/2014/09/second-life-mmo-memorial-september11.html

The Station Sim Closing 9-20--14

Visit here:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Station/177/86/1040


This amazing sim will be closing Sept 20th.  Hurry over and get some last exploring and photos.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
                                                          The Floating City, Sky Level

* Miri's Club, The train depot, Fun House, mechanical bull challenge,  upper walkway electric dance poles, mini porn theater, lower walkways benches and viewing and gear box access to other places
 * The New Orpheum Theater (book for free/movies running otherwise-current "Burlesque")

*The Rube-Goldeberg Sling Shot Ride

*The Skywalk Art Gallery

*Magical Celestial Observatory-have a seat and be whisked away to other worlds

*The Retro room, spin the bottle, dice, dance and more

*Exotic Private Dance Gallery

*Down the Rabbit Hole to Alice's Suite, Dance, explore, etc

*The Guilded Gobbler Air ship and Dark Mirage Observatory and hang out, and flying airship rezzers  landing

*Private Dance Quad

*The showers

*Fun House maze, naughty room

*Private Dance Trolley

*Balloon hangout rooms

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
                                                        The Dead City Ground Level

*Trains & Trolleys

*The Human Cannon and steampunk bird gliders

*The Dead City Carnival, bumper cars, roller coaster, ferris wheel, carousel, kissing booth, etc.

* Interactive Immersive Theater  upper level & SLictionary Game in lower level

                                 *Strip Poker, Greedy, Mechanical Bull Game Area
                                 *Room for rents, Skywalk Gallery museum, library
                                         *Courthouse suitable for weddings or RP
       *Dead City Gambling hall, free to play slots, roulette, blackjack, dance stage with dances, semi-furnished rooms for rent, The Attic open mic club, trollies

* Sex Ed and detention classroom

 http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Station/71/29/43

*Old Orpheum Theater & private dark viewing room

*The Underwater Aquarium and Dance Area

If interested in acquiring The Station, please contact Sonrisa Seminario

Mystery Sim Opening Tonight 9-9-14 8pm SLT

Visit here: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Tropical%20Escape/230/201/21




Ok, so it's not REALLY a mystery, but I had big plans of making a video, taking photos, blogging and spamming this place and didn't.   Since it done/made I just decided to open it to the public.  I'll make a video or pics later.  You all can come visit and enjoy it too though now.  It's just my homestead open temporarily to the public. I'll let you check it out for yourselves though, but what I will say is I think it's good for dates, photography, hanging out and having fun and playing with friends and family, exploring, etc.. Please don't feel the need to critique it, as I'm not a builder and I just put together things I really like and want to share it with everyone for a while.  I probably won't have it open all that long, but a few weeks at least.  I hope you enjoy it!  xoxo KT