Ipenda Keynes - 2nd Life

Keiko for PAU!

2007-10-03T16:15:00.003-07:00

Keiko Takamura will be playing a PAU/free education benefit show on Friday at 5pm slt on Paws Above University's Mephilo Tor parcel. Stop by for some great tunes, and show your support to Keiko and free education from Paws Above University!

Keiko for PAU!

2007-10-03T16:15:00.001-07:00

Just a cool shot of some friends

2006-08-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yeah...sometimes I forget that sl is separate from real life...but as they are, I consider all of these people my friends. I try to avoid drama, by being bluntly honest. In a day or two, I'll be posting an official announcement about our new University within Second Life, "Passionate Angels University" (the title may change because I wasn't in the picture when it was originally thought up.) I resigned from TeaZers, my home since joining sl back in April. And I lost one of my closest, most trustworthy friends in sl due to rl situations.

So, *sigh*, this post is bittersweet. I'm very anxious to start teaching the newly written courses with our new direction, but I'm starting to question ethics and professionalism that I never thought I'd have to deal with in sl.
Well, at least check out the slURL and come visit PAU.

It goes by in a blink...

2006-08-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Phew...two months! Can you believe it...Everyday, Felanis manages to surprise me with her love.

Real life aside, for a second, I love her very much too!
Happy two months!

Right in front of me all along...

2006-08-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Anyone that's been here before, or read my profile, should know by now, that one of my favorite past-times is finding quiet/peaceful places to relax. Who would've thought that the girls would create such a beautiful home/garden literally overnight! Who would've thought that our home would be the most peaceful, relaxing place to get work done, or just sit and talk!? Just over 4 months of searching, and a place like this is literally right infront of me!

We shouldn't need to mention the company, but I will anyway, cause I love them dearly. Felanis and Asaria, you two amaze me with your building/scripting skills, but more importantly, your loving/caring manners about you.

In a Rut...

2006-08-08T20:31:00.000-07:00

It happens with my composing, my performing, my teaching...why would I not expect it to happen with my Second Life as well? Maybe because, so far, SL has been my ideal escape from reality, at least for a few hours a day.
But lately, I've been in a rut. There are times when I am so bored in sl, I just sit at the house listening to Simkast. Other times, I just throw my hands up in the air, sigh, and logoff.
Many of my very close friends are not in-world nearly as often, so loneliness is definitely an issue. Also, all the changes and drama with TeaZers lately is starting to make me miss my rl job.
Finally, my quest for land has severely backfired...(see previous post) As it stands, looks like not only am I not getting the First Land plot, but we're going to lose out on the larger one since it's already up for auction. Sigh.

Often the best way out of a rut, is to try something new. If you see me in-world, say "hi", maybe even share a favorite landmark with me!

The Great Land Chase...

2006-08-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

So, this may have backfired on me, but I talked to Guy Linden about a piece of First Land that seems to have been abandoned. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to reset it so I could grab it, but too make things worse, he put a large plot up for auction that Asaria and Felanis wanted. In doing so, he dropped the land's level, making our house look rediculous.
Sis, Fel, I'm working on building up some Lindens so this land can be ours.
I feel like Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman from "Far and Away" right now...
^.^

Where Am I!!!

2006-08-01T04:09:00.000-07:00

You know why there isn't a picture this post? Huh, huh? Do ya?
[sigh], It's because I've been so busy with rl (real life, just in case you forgot) that I actually had to ask for a leave of ansence from TeaZers for this week! For anyone that hasn't seen my profile in Second Life, I'm a musician and a teacher, so I got volunteered as a drumline instructor...this week, being the 14 hour-long days of band camp (This one time...at band camp...oh hell, n/m).
So, when I get home, and get to log on to sl, it's for about 15-20 minutes to read some saved IMs, work on (read: break) a script or two, and spend time with my Passionate Angels, mainly Felanis.
Next week, I'll make up for the absence at TeaZers with some hard-core scripting classes (I want to get all the way through 101-107 next week, plus host 2 hours of Jello Boxing). Also still trying to get my most desired piece of land...
So? Hopefully see yous all soon. If you catch me, during the few minutes I'm in-world, say "hi"!

Cello! How are you?

2006-07-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

I've been saving for this gorgeous instrument for a few weeks now, and today, after asking a few questions regarding my shortness, I bought the Hyper-Cello. I'll leave the slURL at the bottom of the post. Remember, slURLs will take you right to the landmark if you have Second Life installed on your computer.

So, I can't wait to play with this thing some more tomorrow. I also started working with Fraps (see link below) to start some Machinima projects. I'm surprised at how well the video is recorded when you think about the fact that my laptop is pretty laggy most the time.
Anyway. Gotta love the cello!!! Thanks Robbie!
Robbie Dingo's Music Shop-SLurl

Some Reading during "Grid Maintenance"

2006-07-23T07:08:00.000-07:00

Well, the grid goes down every once in awhile...sometimes it's scheduled...other times...it's not.
For those times when nothing seems to be working, nobody is in Skype, Yahoo, AIM. And you're stuck with nothing to do, here are a few interesting links:

Second Life for Relay for Life - I've posted before about the Giant Snail Races, and how I've been able to donate to the American Cancer Society in Second Life.
SimKast Radio - Offering the best, all-request radio station in Second Life
TeaZers University - The friendliest, most knowledgeable residents in Second Life, offering their talents for free to all students.
Avimator - Free download to create your own animations for Second Life
Fraps - Screen Capture software, recommended by Eric Linden
Alt-Zoom Studios - Second Life Machinima Experts!

So...enjoy!

Milestones...

2006-07-19T14:40:00.000-07:00

I still remember the conversation like it was yesterday...even though it started a month ago today.

Felanis Soyer, asked me a simple question: "Do you like me?" From that point on, I was the luckiest person in Second Life. And, 2 nights ago, when she got to listen to a song I wrote especially for her...well, that's another memory I'll never forget.

Get Well, RacerX! (and thank you)

2006-07-15T15:08:00.000-07:00

Our Cross-country, Giant Snail Race was postponed this morning because RacerX Gullwing is very sick, and couldn't make the event. TeaZers University is also closed today for reconstruction. That left me high and dry, looking for exciting things to do. But I did get to check out the "Tiny Snail AV" that Racer gave us last night at the race kickoff party at Club76.

Is Felanis, my sweetheart puppy pouring salt on me? Of course not! She loves me. The Tiny Snail is very cute and Lobby-friendly.
Anyway, RacerX, get well soon!

Noise is Good!

2006-07-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...my profile says I like "quiet" places, but in this case, noise is good! I've been wanting to buy Robbie Dingo's cello ever since he made it. Not only did he make it, but since I requested it awhile before, he made the extra, personal, step of IMing to tell me it was finished. Unfortunately, at L$3000, it's kinda steep at the moment. But, nevertheless, I visited his shop this morning, and discovered his "WhisperBox" audio exhibit. I want to try this with a few friends, but it was a lot of fun to play around with...

btw, I apologize for not "Slurl-ing" as much as I wanted to. Since I normally blog without being *in* Second Life, it's much harder to get the location. My bad...I'll get right on it!

Do Instructor's Party?

2006-07-13T06:03:00.001-07:00

Of course we do! This was our monthly Instructor's get-together where the theme was "bathtime fun". First and Dragon set up an EduGame build-off where we each got a folder of supplies (and cute duckie slippers), and had 30 minutes to build something "bathroom-y". We also got rubber-duckie trivia. So, with my limited building skills, I built myself a shower, and dressed for the role. When I shared the snapshot with my Felanis, she was in tears laughing (it's now adorning the North wall of our house), so I decided to share it here, too...

Following the build competition, we got a huge posed shot to sent to the Lindens. I'm in there somewhere (I think near the back...)

Passionate Angels, and me

2006-07-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

Yah, Me being an angel is like roasting marshmallows eternally in Heaven. But anyway, Asaria and Felanis maintain this little place we call home, and since I love Felanis very much, I get to live there too. They actually got someone else to take this snapshot (display settings maxed out!), and I'm so lucky to be included in the group! These two are truly my closest friends in Second Life.

Yeah, you're jealous of me...

Whoever heard of a Racing Snail?!

2006-07-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

So, RacerX Gullwing is allowing me to race in the cross-country Giant Snail Race on Saturday. First thing I had to do, was find a Map...hehe

I found the map, changed outfits (to the snail), and began running. Aside from a little lag here and there, I finished the course on my own in about an hour. Of course, I had many funny encounters (cars, people running, newbies gawking and taking pictures, etc) I can't wait for my new shell and the chance to run this race. It's for a good cause, folks!

It's the Great Pink Sea Snail!

2006-07-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

bear with the multiple images...had a fun last few days
The title is a quote from the original "Dr. Doolittle" movie, where they hunt for a giant, mythical pink sea snail. Anyway, I read about Giant Snail Racing in SL in the M2, which is an online, newspaper written by Second Lifers, about Second Life. On the 15th of July, RacerX Gullwing is hosting a 40 Sim, cross-country race to benefit Relay for Life, and Race for a Cure. I missed the required beginner's orientation class, but got to watch 2 of the parkour races (obstacle course, with launches).

Then, yesterday, I noticed RacerX on, so I asked him when the next orientation would be, but due to the big race, there wasn't going to be one for a few days, so he invited me to use the obstacle course on my own since he hadn't wiped it from the prevous race-day. Haha, When I first put on this snail avatar, I sent a picture immediately to Felanis.

Maybe I can get in the cross-country...we'll see.

The Evils of Competition

2006-07-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

Ya all know Primtionary is one of my favorite Second Life past-times, right? But what if you're against competition, or you see a mean-streak in yourself the moment winning becomes a goal?

One of my very dear friends in SL, whom I give a great deal of respect for her thirst for knowledge and fun within this world, humored me when I invited her to play Primtionary this past Saturday. Following the event, though, we talked about the good and evil of competitive nature.
It was a very interesting discussion, one of which I can't possibly go into on a blog post...but, in SL, my little bit of competitiveness keep things lively!

New-ness!

2006-07-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud!

Silken Glitter, one of my favorite students, just had her application approved to teach at TeaZers alongside some of the best educational staff in SL. This snapshot was from her second class (Nyla sat in on her very first), "Show Me the Money" (making a Tip Jar). Another first, though...is that she taught in TU's new Starlight Classroom, which is a very long classroom, but plenty of room to work.
Congratulations, Silken! I'm honored to have taught you.

You tell me not to worry?

2006-07-07T11:03:00.000-07:00

First off, I absolutely adore this snapshot. Possibly one of my most favorite shots, I'll ever take. But, that's where the goodness ends. I can't go into it, but I'm going to miss Felanis for a while, possibly a long while...last night, we got to spend together before she left.

From my previous posts, anyone reading should know that A: I'm married and I love my wife more than anything, B: I also love Felanis, but in a slightly different way, and C: I am a very caring, open, "heart-on-my-sleeve" type of person. So when, I was told not to worry about problems in real life, because Felanis is just another player in a game, I got pissed. Sure, it was okay for another of our friends to make sure we were okay after the torrential rain and flooding in our area, but now I can't even wonder if she's okay?
/rant end.
I still love the snapshot, though.

Pop Goes the Fourth!

2006-07-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

I realize many of the SL residents aren't from the states, but that didn't stop most of us from celebrating our Independance Day. Deli, of course dj'ed, and we had our funny hats courtesy of Compulov. But, where am I in the picture? Nowhere. My wife, Nyla was celebrating for the both of us.
I wanna do the fireworks next year...

The Open Road, and Open Sea

2006-07-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

It is July 4th weekend for us. That means huge family picnics, trekking up to the lake with my in-laws and wife, and being sans-tech til Tuesday. We will get to take Dad's boat out on the lake though, hopefully spot the nesting Bald Eagles again, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the small town.

Boating in Second Life was awesome! Especially when you fill one of these sailboats with a handful of your good friends.
I'll see you all on Tuesday!

Good Grief-ers

2006-07-02T00:32:00.000-07:00

Okay...all in good fun is one thing...but caging, guns, pushing, self-replicating prims/scripts, etc. Well, they have got to stop. Known as griefing in Second Life, people basically make other users' lives miserable for no good reason.

Linden Labs claim griefing is declining, but after being given security clearance at TeaZers, I beg to differ.
I understand SL is a different game for everyone, but just being an ass isn't going to accomplish anything good.

And now Introducing...

2006-07-02T00:20:00.000-07:00

Nyla (said "Knee-la") Kelly!
Nyla is my wife in First Life, and now she's as hooked on SL as I am! Hehe. When she said she wanted to try it, I said "sure!", and immediately set her up with Gizmo Gorky to go shopping. L$2000 later, this is what we got!

So, we only need a second computer, and we'll be able to play together. Hehe!

6 Degrees of Separation...I wish

2006-06-28T12:28:00.000-07:00

First off, no picture this post. No reason, except I couldn't find one that fit the topic.
Well, the unthinkable's happened. My wife in First Life has created an avatar in Second Life. For the time being, we probably won't be on at the same time, and I can't promise or predict how addicted she's going to get. I also can't predict how my current friendships and relationships will change now that Nyla Kelly is a part of Second Life.
Please bear with whatever changes come about from this...all I can hope for is that no feelings are hurt. I love you all...

Perfect Activity for the Day!

2006-06-27T06:37:00.000-07:00

First time I tried Jello-Boxing, which is a TeaZer's sponsored event, it was at the Dreams Festival. I was still very new, and kinda sucked at it, but had a lot of fun nonetheless! So...after my day of emotional heartaches, worries, then laughs, and loves...Jello Boxing seemed like the perfect way to end my evening. My Wife in First Life even made an attempt (and did fairly well, actually)! But, when Dragon showed up, she chickened about and blamed LAG, so I took over for the last two rounds.
Meanwhile...I finally got through my whole "mental mess", when Felanis came on, and started cheering for me! Staying on that late (almost 2am) was worth more than sleep last night.

Enjoy...and Dragon, I'm practicing for next time. -.^

First Time Ever in SL...

2006-06-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I went through an emotional rollercoaster within Second Life...never has a game made me "worry", "cry", "laugh" (well, sometimes), or "love". Hence, SL is not a game in my definition. For a long while yesterday, I felt very alone. Even with my long list of friends in-world, nobody was logged in, but me!

I spent a lot of time exploring, building random things (most of which I threw out), and sitting in quiet places sorting my inventory or reading notecards. Thankfully, though...read the newest post.

Reflection...

2006-06-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

One of my most dedicated students at TeaZers shared this place with me. It is called Future Perfect (I'll create a SLURL to it later, I had a hard time finding it in the "Find" menu). It is, by far, the most beautiful place I've ever seen in Second Life. It could possibly be a marvelous place to sit and reflect, or even spend with a close friend or loved one...

Maybe I'm not in the position to reflect yet, but I definitely have some issues to deal with. For a few weeks, I'm going to be on a limited SL schedule (playing only from 8-11:30 my time...which would equal 5pm-8:30pm SLT) as per a request from my wife. Oh well, hopefully things will sort themselves out...it's amazing how communication can, pardon my language, get really fucked up, when you're not speaking...

Can I get a lil' peace and quiet?

2006-06-24T16:34:00.000-07:00

Just kidding. I really love the attention. But with every new friend request, and every class taught, I have found it increasingly difficult to find a quiet place to read, run through a lesson plan, or manage the dreaded inventory. I love the Bluffs, especially when I can float or hide out in the caves, but I'm still too tempted to find someone in IM and bother them instead of teaching myself something new. Now, finally...I think I found my "thinking place".

Well, it's not my home, but I don't think the owner minds me cuddling softly there, reading, thinking, or just taking a cat nap. I love TeaZers, and have called the lobby my "place of rest" for a few months now...but now, I finally feel at home.

Not Quite a Fly-By

2006-06-21T01:58:00.000-07:00

I wish my teachers when I was a child would've told me to, "Just stay here...go make out in the back or something." A fellow instructor needed a few extra students to make sure her roster was large enough to get paid (a few people had crashed half-way through class), so she asked me to bring Felanis up with me to do a "fly-by". Of course, after you give me permission to spend precious time with Felanis, who could resist, so I rezzed my little basket on the wall of the classroom.

Do you seriously think I would've let this go without getting a snapshot? Felanis, thank you for such an enjoyable night yesterday. It's always the little things that bring out the warm fuzzies.

On the Prowl

2006-06-21T01:47:00.000-07:00

I got to go exploring last night after my love went off to bed. After making a flower planter box in Alore's class, I suggested planting catnip instead of daisies. So, after class, she showed me a few stores devoted to kitties! I actually did buy some catnip, but I enjoyed the stores immensely without spending a ton of money. Someday, when I have land, I can just picture a huge cat, scratching-post tree in my front yard. Ask for the landmarks if you don't already have them, and definitely check this place out (especially if you're of the fuzzy variety). The entrance alone is worth the visit!

Thanks Alorellen for being a good friend, and being a sounding board when I'm not sure what to do next.

Necklaces, Collars, and Basket-weaving

2006-06-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

There seemed to be a theme yesterday, so I felt the need to post a few more snapshots than usual. It started the night before, with the baskets which were wonderfully made by Gizmo Gorky and Alorellen Chamerberlin. I ended up purchasing both the large cuddle basket, and the cozier couples one. There's also a shoebox, but I'm not sharing that at the moment.
Then...yesterday, Briseis and Asaria, two of my good friends in SL, gave me a present. They decided that all of their good friends should have custom-made, matching "bling" necklaces with their names. I was truly honored to be included, and will happily show off the new "kitty bling".
Finally, I was given a leash. The leash, goes to a collar, bringing me to the last picture. Let me clarify, that Alorellen (the green furry) is not the collar wearer. That's important. But, after helping her out a little with her shop, I asked her what it was all about.
scroll down a bit...

So, it seems like I am a cuddler, friend, and owner...What was that about this being a game? Oh yeah, right.
You guys are all the absolute best!

Aww...

2006-06-15T09:34:00.000-07:00

Some news. Felanis (the cute one in the picture), and I both got our Linden Labs Instructor titles yesterday, which was perfect timing since I had a class last night! That means, we're both pulling in L$500 (Second Life's currency for those of you who don't got game) per class. It certainly beats the chump change (as my mentor put it) of L$150/class as a trainee. But, as far as I know, TeaZers is the only place that allows teacher trainees to get paid at all anyway! As for the picture below:

Briseis and Asaria were both hanging out in the lobby, and Felanis and I were chilling on the couch as usual. Bri, being an incredible photographer in SL, snapped a few shots of the two of us, so I had to post one of 'em. Remember, we're just friends so as not to disrupt real-life in any way, but game or not, snapshots like these give me the "warm-fuzzies".
Finally, I added a new friend to the list of Blogs on there on the right. Elum Pegler. (I can't remember where I ran into her, but saw her blog, and have commented occasionally ever since.) Be sure to check out her's, and enjoy some light reading!

Education Reform, (this is a game, right?)

2006-06-14T01:47:00.000-07:00

SL forum's-Meeting Chat Log
TeaZer's University Staff Forums

Yesterday, I turned 60Days inworld, so the first thing I did was apply for Linden Labs Instructor. Then, I was invited to the Second Life Education "scaling" duscussion. Phew, lemme just say, to be fair and polite, read the posts...I'm all for education reform, but you mustn't forget why you're reforming it. And, no...money is not the reason. All I'm saying is that these types of changes seem to mirror No Child Left Behind, school reform commisions, and state takeovers...things I don't approve of in RL. This is a game, right? Keep telling myself that. Our fearless President doesn't have an avatar does he? (oh my God, that would be hilarious...now where's that Lemming Launcher?)

AFK = more fun for everyone else!

2006-06-13T15:42:00.000-07:00

If you're gonna go away from the keyboard for a bit...be prepared for hijinx like no other. Poor Dwen.

This reminds me of when college kids go out partying and the drunken, passed-out ones get "shamed" by having an eyebrow shaved off, things written on them, etc. But, since TeaZers is mostly PG, and it's Second Life, we have more creative methods. Dragon and Dwen are by far, the best at it, but Rocinante, and even Asaria get in on the fun when someone is left sitting in the Lobby, afk.
*watches his back from now on...*

Twin Power!!!

2006-06-12T01:38:00.000-07:00

I said crazy things happen when we're all up late. This is the event of an all nighter, and a crazy idea to create twins. Yup, even I have a twin now. We get to be silly, flashmob around Second Life, just have an excellent time!

This shot was taken after shocking Felanis with the sight of all our twins.

TeaZer's Fun

2006-06-12T01:35:00.000-07:00

What happens when you put Dragon Stryker, First Page, and the rest of the TeaZer's crew (well, a few more, anyway) into one small chair?

We all get silly, spout out crazy ideas, and then...

What can Brown (black) do for you?

2006-06-10T07:52:00.000-07:00

You can get ya darn truck out my classroom! That's what!

Izira Kirkorkian found this truck sitting up in North Classroom at TeaZers (so she couldn't teach her class up there). She told us about it, and I, being the cat (You know what they say about cats & curiosity...) had to check it out.
Curiosity hit again when I tried to sit in the seat. Since I'm not the "owner" (who is!?) ,it bounced me through the roof and up into the air.

So I took my portrait infront of it instead...

A Demonstration of Physics

2006-06-10T07:03:00.000-07:00

I always wonder how many people skip over posts that have the word "physics" in the title...

I was tattling on Rocinante and Asaria, to Felanis the other night, so Asaria volunteered to "demonstrate" what they did to me at the end of my Scripting 101 class. They've gotten the script to clean up after itself (a skill, I guess Furries usually need more work on than others?), so we didn't have hundreds of little prim marbles all over the lobby.
Felanis, moved out of the way, leaving the brunt of the "drop" on me. I would've protected her...hehe

Wax on, Wax off...continue

2006-06-10T06:56:00.000-07:00

With all the drama going on between Linden Labs and TeaZers (I'm not getting into it here, don't ask), I just wanted to post a shot of what I enjoy doing 80% of my time in Second Life. If I'm not camping out in TeaZer's Lobby with some of my closest friends, I'm teaching people, primarily scripting at the moment.

We had a relatively small class last night, but that only means more individualized instruction and help. Scripting 103 will be taught tonight!
I have to be honest with ya though, I was kinda hoping for Rocinante, Asaria, or even Felanis to get in on the clowning around...oh well.

Everyone else is doing it...

2006-06-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

I think I managed to get everyone (almost) to update their blogs tonight, so if you haven't loved the links over on the right, be sure to (you'll even get a nice shot of my ass on one of 'em). right-click, save, drool
So, since everyone updated their blogs, I had to get mine done as well.

Thanks to Deli, as always for the great radio show and dance party at TeaZer's Lobby! (and yes, the ratio was much more even this time)

Adorable.

2006-06-06T21:14:00.000-07:00

Alright, so I don't have a catchy title for this post. I actually forgot to post this one after Felanis took me shopping for my furry avatar. This was while we were in the sandbox (before Asaria showed up). Anyway thought it was cute, and wanted to share. Felanis hasn't been able to play as much recently, and I miss her. But it's just a game, right? ha

p.s. I'm including a link to some of my original, real-life compositions for violin/cello/"vocals" (I'm not a singer, but I try...). Enjoy. I accept hate mail, but will probably just delete it.

Physics = fun

2006-06-06T02:02:00.000-07:00

What happens when 3 East-Coasters stay up all night to play a game based on the Pacific Coast? Add to the mix, the fact that I was teaching a Beginners Scripting Class at 1:30am. Asaria and Rocinante decided to be the "class clowns" this morning. So, as I taught, they sat quietly behind me plotting to drop a pile of physics-enabled marbles on my head.

Back in the lobby, we continued to play...I guess felines are supposed to be nocturnal, right? But what do they call "no sleep"?

Vacation...

2006-06-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

For the next few weekends, I will be away from Second Life so I can help my in-laws build their vacation home. Enjoy the peace and quiet, but I know you'll all miss me terribly.
I expect pictures on blogs of anything I'd regret missing! hehe

-Ipenda
p.s. thanks to a friend in SL, I learned a few interesting Swahili facts:
1. "penda" is a popular girl's name meaning "love". By adding an "i" to the front, *I* made it a boy's/kitty's name.
2. "asante san" means "Thank you very much" and "You're welcome" in Swahili as well.

Fitting, ain't it?

Am I one Too?

2006-05-31T23:41:00.000-07:00

Today, I got to go shopping. I originally wanted to find some formal wear, but since I went shopping with Felanis, I got an awesome furry avatar. So, now I match Felanis, and get to explore Second Life through a totally different set of eyes. After buying the avatar, we flew into a Furry sandbox, and I changed into a kitten. Then, Felanis invited her sister, Asaria who gasped and applauded the change. So, after mulling around the sandbox for awhile, we decided to show off my new image.
Whether I continue to be a furry, or use this for special occasions I haven't decided. I have a few other pics to post, but they'll wait til tomorrow.

"I don't want to mess with the ratio," he says...

2006-05-31T01:35:00.000-07:00

Only in Second Life, could I be dancing in the lobby of one of the most prestigious schools, after teaching a class on Scripting, with 5 or 6 beautiful women. And only in Second Life would I be the only guy dancing.
I had a blast last night, and even though I'm married in my First Life (I'm no longer referring to it as "real life" because they're both real, just in different forms), I was able to flirt without consequence. Brings up an interesting point, I guess. My wife will never play SL, because she thinks it's just a game. If she would, though, I'd partner with her in SL in a heartbeat. But...instead, I can be the batchelor I never really was.
In some ways, I wish I could get "serious" with someone from SL, but then again, there are so many difficult decisions. So, for now, I'm having fun as a single, pointy-haired dude. Someday, maybe, someday...

Voted most Peaceful

2006-05-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm trying something different with how I post my polaroids. We'll see how it works.
So after one of the worst days in my FL (not Florida), Second Life was a wonderful little escape, at least for a little while. I discovered TeaZer's Lobby had moved, and got to spend a very short time with one of my favorite furries before getting dragged back to FL for some pre-work garbage.
When I was able to return to Second Life, I chose to explore the Bluff's Arts Center for some peace and quiet. Ironically, I brought Rocinante Mandelbrot along (just kidding, hehe). We explored the various concert venues and the caves beneath the Bluff. Then, a few of my friends from the Bluffs logged in, and after a few short introductions, we went floating. After we were all "pruny", we checked out the Lodge ,

and danced for awhile. ZeroOne Paz even recruited some other ladies in to spice things up. Hehehe.
Back to First Life for a little, I suppose. Hopefully the vacation was enough.

Keltish-live in SL's Dublin

2006-05-26T22:05:00.000-07:00

Wow! Who would've thought after last night's hardware issues, that I'd be able to log on today, watch a live streaming concert, in an area with 65 other avatars, with almost no lag (well, a little, but not a big deal)!?!?! So, the concert was incredible. So incredible in fact, that I plugged the laptop into my home stereo system to listen to 'em.

These are a few of the shots I took inbetween the performance sets. Really...I'm so happy the update helped...for me anyway.

Obsolete?

2006-05-25T19:41:00.001-07:00

Is my laptop obsolete, already? I realize laptops aren't meant to have the best hardware/graphics/etc, but until Wednesday, I wasn't having too much of a problem in Second Life. Sigh...I'm almost ready to give up.
On a lighter note, I'm sharing my GooglePages site so my friends can listen to my compositions. In SL, instant message me, and I'll share it. Or, click this. Feel free to comment here on the music (I hope someone listens to 'em. I think they're alright, if not good.)
So, until I can run SL a little smoother, I'm taking my spare time to my composition/performing.

Take care, friends. I'll miss you while I'm away.

Romantic Candlelight, with lag

2006-05-25T01:54:00.000-07:00

As soon as Rocinante Mandelbrot asked us to check out the local lighting at Midnight, most of us gently changed settings just for a moment. Although the picture doesn't quite do it justice, his candles lit up the otherwise dark lobby quite well, and left a romantic glow around us. It still irks me that some of my closest friends in SL (Felanis) are having so much trouble with the upgrade.
I chose against photographing the hot tub party afterwards (it was still PG, of course), and have since reverted back to the low-level lighting option.
But to think all we needed were a few beautiful avatars, and some romantic violin music...

Ugh

2006-05-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

Well, turns out my laptop, broadband, and completely updated drivers still aren't good enough. Second Life was upgraded today with some really cool new features...but since the lag is absolutely impossible to deal with, I'm afraid I'm going to be missing out on a lot of it.
If it weren't for my friends I've made over the past month or so, I'd just screw it, and go back to composing and podcasting...but I can't. I would miss all my friends at TeaZers way too much to just give up.
So, I'm going to give it a few days (I am going away this weekend anyway), and maybe things will have fixed themselves. To everyone who is experiencing the misery of the upgrade, especially, Felanis...I can only offer consoling hugs...

Phew.

2006-05-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

That's all I could say last night, as I crashed into TeaZer's Lobby, quickly teleported myself about about 20 others into the West Classroom, and began teaching Scripting 101.
I was 15 minutes due to Real Life transportation issues (read: Amtrak's fault). Luckily, after a little ribbing, everybody was happy I made it, and we had a great class. Phew!

But, it brought up an interesting situation. And I have an interesting solution.
Even if I wanted to cancel my class, or at least let someone in-world know that I was going to be late...I couldn't. I didn't have an internet connection on the train, and had no way to contact anybody. TeaZers has a two-strike rule stating that if you are a "no-show" for two classes, you're put on probation...(you's in big trouble, mister)
So, my solution, if it pans out, is this: I already have an alternate email address for Ipenda, along with this blog, so why not create an alternate IM screen-name as well? So, for anyone who would like to talk to Ipenda Keynes even when I'm not in Second Life...IM IpendaKeynes.
It's an AIM screenname, but since I use Trillian, there ya go.

John Cage...eat your heart out!

2006-05-21T21:54:00.000-07:00

I learned about Javanese Gamelan orchestras while I was in college, studying 20th Century Music History. It wasn't until today, that I actually got to sit an perform in one. Yeah, yeah. It was in Second Life, but since I've never even seen a real-life J-G orchestra, this is as good as it gets. ZeroOne Paz and Anhinga Chaika gave me an incredible tour of the Bluff Nature Preserve and Arts Center today. ZeroOne also gave me some pointers on a pet project I'll be working on...
I plan on giving a live recital within Second Life sometime this summer. I'm not sure whether I want to do some sort of charity with it or not, but that's also a possibility.
Anhinga also taught me a little Swahili...ask me what my name means!

There was an Ipenda, who lived on a shoe...

2006-05-21T21:50:00.000-07:00

See this shoe? Yeah. The one I'm sitting on. See it?
Good! Wanna buy it?
Good.
Felanis Soyer is selling this awesome shoe chair (I think it's meant more for hot chicks, than me, but whatever), as well as a great cylindrical, two-story house...furnished.
I love seeing her happy, and I know that she's happy when people like her creations. Buy the shoe! (hot guy sitting on it, not included)

It's Not Delivery!

2006-05-21T21:45:00.000-07:00

I made my first attempt at playing "Pizza" a few nights ago. For those of you who've never played, "Pizza" is a lot of fun. I enjoy "Primtionary" a lot more, but that's my opinion. The gist of the game is you put together a pizza, matching all the same sized ingredients. Then, you "sell" your pizza for points. Whoever has the most points at the end of 40 rounds, wins the pot.I didn't win at all, but I learned quickly, and had a lot of fun.

Ain't she KYooot?

2006-05-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

When I first rezzed in Second Life, I was greeted by all sorts of nice people, and have continued to meet interesting people all through my first month or so in-world...(as you can see by my earlier posts). But over the last few days, I've gotten very close to Felanis.
I can't predict where this will take me, but I am definitely enjoying the flirting! Only time will tell, I guess...
p.s. I'm adding her blog as well as her sister's to the right-hand content

No more "book"

2006-05-20T18:25:00.000-07:00

The book was an incredible creation...unfortunately "lag" kills it's usability.
So, they brains at TeaZer's University created this new board with chat channels, and colorcoded teleports...making finding a class much easier.
Way to go, everyone!

RUN AWAY, Maia!!!

2006-05-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

Dragon Stryker, aka "Oogabooga" was trying to eat Maia (the cute lil' bunny). We were up VERY late last night (I went to bed at 3am EST) just talking, goofing around, and hanging out at TeaZer's University Lobby.

Pizza Party at TeaZers

2006-05-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

Kim Seifert was trying out the objects for her new class, so we got to pig out on pizza and bahama mamas. Hehe.
Just stay away from the Red Bull...haha

New friends, Carolina & Kayla

2006-05-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't have a good picture of Carolina, but Kayla is one of her best friends both in RL and SL. I took a chance and IMed Carolina during an event at the Bad Girl's Club, and found out that we have a lot in common in both lives. She is a great new friend in SL (plus she has a hot avatar...well, they both do...hehe)

Ms. Theodora Duke

2006-05-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

Theodora is an absolute sweetheart. We met during one of the TeaZers classes and became friends almost instantly. She is such a flirt, and I really enjoy her company!

Shhh...Listen...

2006-05-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

Can you hear that? Quiet. Just the babbling waterfall, with me floating peacefully in the stream...
Somewhere, inbetween all the strip clubs, casinos, battle grounds, education centers, and concert halls, lies some of the most beautiful parcels of land within Second Life. This was one of many "nature" areas where an avatar can be by him/herself to think, get some work done, or just escape the noise. I'm sure it would be very romantic, provided you had someone to be romantic with in SL, but I at least got some lesson planning done.

Nice place ya got, there.

2006-05-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

My career as a TeaZer's University instructor is finally taking off. A couple days ago, I met my mentor, Stranger Christiansen at his home. He's a really cool, fun avatar to chat with, and his modernist abode certainly reflects that. When I first teleported into his home, he invited me to sit in a peaceful, but futuristic looking garden complete with sounding wind chimes and rustling trees. Then, he showed me to his "practice classroom", his bar (complete with bar wench), and finally, his store...which we arrived at by leaping blindly off his "little pad in the sky".
Although, I don't own land yet...after seeing Stranger's place, I'm seriously considering settling down in my Second Life.
p.s. I will be teaching BEG Prim Edit at TeaZer's University within the next week or so. Come check it out, especially if you're new to SL or building!

A Cool Breeze...

2006-05-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

Kerhop Seattle, one of TeaZers most interesting instructors regularly teaches students how to make a giant floor fan...There's mine: I was amazed at the fact that the blades are only 1 prim! This class was also my first shot at mucking with an existing script (we learned how to change the speed of the blades).
So far, this is one of my favorite snapshots taken in Second Life.

Strike a Pose, Ipenda!

2006-05-02T10:33:00.000-07:00

I needed a cool shot for my TeaZer's Instructor Trading Card...
What do ya think?

Just for having cool Pajamas?!

2006-05-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I do things in Second Life that I would never do in my First Life. Take, for example, going to a very erotic dance club, wearing the most God-awful, orange, flannel pajamas I could possibly create. Then, asking a hot girl (she said she was short, but we were about the same height) to dance with my pajama-wearing self. And finally, to top it all off...how 'bout winning L$200 just for being the best male "pajama-wearer" there (I did have awesome sheep slippers on too). Yup. That's what happened. Bad Girls is definitely a fun club to hang out at, and the thought of winning Lindens for dressing silly...what fun!

Wanna Snuggle?

2006-04-22T15:01:00.000-07:00

This morning, in an attempt to attend a few more classes before starting TeaZers instructor orientation tomorrow, I took this intermediate building class to make a "snuggle rug". Keil (can't remember her whole name at the moment) was the instructor, and this was the first time she's taught at TUi! She did a fabulous job, and I really enjoyed putting this thing together.
Now, if I can only find some hotties to share it with...

Ipenda, the badass

2006-04-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

After my class with Jace, I teleported over to New Citizens Inc and used their photobooth. Couldn't figure out how to hide all the other poseballs...oh well.

Thank you, Rick Raymond, for the new clothings!

Snapshots class @ TeaZers University

2006-04-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I've been so caught up in the game, I haven't had time to blog about it...haha.
So, I began my quest to become a teacher in Second Life, with the help of TeaZers University. They offer a "trainee" and "apprentice" position for gamers who haven't met the requirements for Linden Labs instructor certification yet. One of the requirements to become a TUi is that I must attend at least 6 courses. Here's one:
That's Jace Normandy, one of the coolest looking instructors at TeaZers, teaching us a class on the "snapshot" feature (which is how ALL of these posts are created, btw).

Where's the Grid?

2006-04-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

Looks like Ipenda and his new look are gonna have to wait...the Grid is currently "Linden only".
While we wait, let's here from the 1st Life:
I checked out the Metaverse Messenger, which is a real-world newspaper based on Second Life happenings. I was anxious to log on and find a game of "slictionary". Also, the "Dream Fair" was supposed to kick off tonight (I heard about it at Teazer's University). Oh well...

Before my long commute home, I picked up Wired's April issue. 90% of the mag (minus ads, etc) dealt with gaming. Being a musician, who is friends with gamers, game-makers, and an avid Game Developer's reader, Wired really had some awesome articles including a few dealing with Second Life. I guess I have something to read while the F5 key gets pressed 2000 times...

Grid was Down, We were In!

2006-04-15T21:34:00.000-07:00

Earlier, there was a login shutdown while the Lindens fixed a scripting problem...then, while they disabled scripts, only about 500 users were left in-world. Without scripting, there was little to do but chat. So, Katya, Equine, and I sat in the Teazer's University Lobby and yapped for hours!

They even taught me a thing or two!

Building a Wetbar!

2006-04-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

I am only 3 days into Second Life, and already took my first class on building. That wet bar in front of me (yeah, I went back to the tie-dye shirt) was made 100% by me with the help of the Teazer's University instructor, Ruby Newt. There is a second class that I started, but didn't get to finish yet that allows me to have a beverage that people can take from the bar and drink.
I have had a lot of trouble finding a place to earn some money today. Possibly because it's the weekend, I guess. Currently, I'm down to $9 Lindels...oh well. At least I'm having fun!

Dancing for Lindels

2006-04-15T01:09:00.000-07:00

I forget where I was here, but I've discovered "camping". It's a great way to make a few bucks without doing anything but wasting bandwidth. Here, I was just dancing for 5 Lindels every 10 minutes.

Plus...there were plenty of nice things to look at... ;)

Happy Birthday, Ipenda Keynes

2006-04-15T00:20:00.000-07:00

My name is Ipenda Keynes. I am a 2 day old, adult male, from the online game, Second Life. I will share my experiences in Second Life as I learn, explore, meet, and create a completely online persona.
This screenshot was one of the first ones I took. I have a basic avatar on (I found the tie-dye pattern in my default folders), and I edited my body shape a little. The cute girl there is DeDe Doowangle. Not only did she help me out with some newbie questions, but she gave me a shirt she created as well as a link to her store. Dede also became my very first friend in Second Life...