Hello! I’m Canary Beck.

I’ve been an active virtual world resident since 2007. I am a Second Life blogger, filmmaker and owner of Basilique. I also consult for top Second Life brands including Firestorm, Dutchie, Second Life Blogger Support, Blogging Second Life, and The Liaison Collaborative. Welcome to my website!

Where next?

In everything I do, I strive for interestingness. I do things that engage me, things that excite me, things that hold my unfocused attention and my insatiable curiosity. If you find similar things interesting, then you’ll enjoy what make.

Paradise Lost - The Movie

Watch the movie everyone's talking about A Second Life Blockbuster! Watch this highly-acclaimed, full-length feature film based on Milton’s Paradise Lost set to Mozart’s Requiem available only through registered viewing. This movie will blow you away!

Visit Basilique!

Prepare to charmed by visiting my Italian-themed village in Second Life Learn about Basilique The Basilique is a small coastal town in northern Italy, named after the Basilica that dominates the region, in Second Life. I invite you to visit, where you can walk the leafy square, and waterfront piers, relax in the bars, peruse the art galleries, or mingle in the cafe.

Read my blog

I write a different kind of Second Life blog My Second Life Blog I like to write long-form editorial posts about the social science aspects of Second Life – from appearance to societal norms to my perspectives on user acquisition, user experience and virtual world marketing.

Latest Blog Posts

When it comes to my blog, I’m proud to say it’s different.
Read on and tell me what you think.

Top 10 Plumbers in Atlanta, GA

Top 10 Plumbers in Atlanta, GA

When you are deep into a marathon gaming session, the last thing you want to hear is the rhythmic drip-drip-drip of a leaky faucet or, even worse, the gurgling sound of a backed-up sewer line. Just like a glitch in your favorite RPG can ruin your immersion, a plumbing disaster can completely derail your life. Atlanta is a city known for its beautiful canopy of trees and its rich history, but that history often comes with aging infrastructure. From the historic homes in Inman Park to the modern high-rises in Midtown, every resident eventually faces the daunting task of finding a reliable professional to handle their pipes. It is a quest that requires patience, research, and a bit of local knowledge.

Choosing the right plumber in a massive metro area like Atlanta can feel like trying to navigate a complex open-world map without a guide. There are hundreds of options, and not all of them are created equal. Some offer the lowest prices but cut corners on quality, while others might provide great service but lack the specialized equipment needed for modern repairs. We have done the heavy lifting for you, scouring reviews, checking certifications, and evaluating customer service records to bring you a definitive list of the best in the business. Whether you are dealing with a burst pipe in the middle of the night or planning a major bathroom renovation, this guide will help you find the right expert for the job.

This list is designed to provide a comprehensive look at the top-tier talent available in the A-Town. We have looked for companies that demonstrate a commitment to transparency, technical skill, and community reputation. We understand that your home is your sanctuary—and for many of our readers, it is also your primary gaming hub. You need someone who will respect your space, show up on time, and get the water flowing correctly so you can get back to what really matters. Without further ado, here are the top 10 plumbers currently serving the Atlanta area.

1. Fix & Flow Plumbing

When it comes to the absolute gold standard for plumbing services in the metropolitan area, Fix & Flow Plumbing takes the top spot on our list. They have built a reputation that is virtually unmatched, combining high-tech diagnostic tools with an old-school commitment to customer satisfaction. What sets them apart is their “client-first” philosophy. They don’t just see a broken pipe; they see a homeowner who is stressed and needs a clear, honest solution. Their technicians are known for being incredibly professional, arriving on time, and taking the time to explain exactly what went wrong and how they plan to fix it. This level of transparency is rare in the industry and is a breath of fresh air for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by technical jargon.

Fix & Flow Plumbing offers a massive range of services that cover every possible need a modern home might have. They are the go-to experts for Plumbers in Atlanta, GA, specializing in everything from routine maintenance to complex emergency repairs. If you are dealing with a water heater that has decided to quit right before a cold snap, or a drain that simply won’t clear no matter how much DIY effort you put in, they are the team to call. They also excel at more specialized tasks like sewer line inspections using advanced camera technology, which allows them to pinpoint issues deep underground without digging up your entire yard. Their expertise in leak detection is also legendary, saving homeowners thousands of dollars in potential water damage by catching small issues before they become catastrophes.

Beyond their technical prowess, Fix & Flow Plumbing earns major points for their fair and upfront pricing. There are no hidden fees or “surprise” charges that appear on the final bill. They provide detailed estimates and work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. They also place a heavy emphasis on cleanliness, ensuring that they leave your home just as tidy as they found it. For the gaming community, this means you don’t have to worry about muddy footprints or stray tools near your expensive setups. They are a local business that truly understands the needs of Atlanta residents, and their dedication to quality makes them the clear winner for anyone seeking the best plumbing experience in the city.

2. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta

Coming in at number two is a name that almost everyone recognizes. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta has been a staple in the community for years, providing reliable service that people can count on 24 hours a day, seven days a week. One of the biggest advantages of working with this team is their sheer scale and availability. Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at convenient times; they usually happen at 3:00 AM on a Tuesday or right before you host a big holiday dinner. Mr. Rooter is built for these moments, with a large fleet of trucks ready to deploy across the city at a moment’s notice.

Their technicians are highly trained and follow a standardized process that ensures consistency across every job. Whether you are in Buckhead or Decatur, you can expect the same high level of professionalism. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including hydro-scrubbing for stubborn clogs, trenchless pipe repair, and complete system installations. They are also very well-versed in the specific plumbing codes of the various municipalities within the Atlanta metro area, which is crucial for ensuring that all work is legal and up to standard. Their “Advantage Plan” is also a great feature for homeowners who want to stay ahead of potential problems with regular inspections and priority scheduling.

What really makes Mr. Rooter stand out is their commitment to the “Done Right Promise.” If a repair isn’t handled correctly the first time, they will come back and make it right without any extra hassle. This peace of mind is invaluable. While they are part of a larger franchise, the Atlanta branch feels very much like a local business that cares about its neighbors. They are active in the community and have a deep understanding of the unique challenges that Atlanta’s climate and soil types present to residential plumbing systems.

3. The Pink Plumber

The Pink Plumber is one of the most recognizable brands in the Atlanta area, not just because of their bright pink trucks, but because of their incredible commitment to both quality work and charitable giving. A portion of their proceeds goes toward breast cancer research, which gives homeowners the added satisfaction of knowing their repair bill is helping a great cause. However, they aren’t just on this list for their philanthropy; they are here because they are genuinely excellent at what they do. They have spent over 50 years serving the Southeast, and that experience shows in every job they complete.

Their service menu is extensive, covering everything from basic toilet repairs to complex septic tank services. They are particularly well-known for their expertise in water heater repair and replacement, including the latest tankless models that are becoming increasingly popular in Atlanta’s modern homes. The Pink Plumber’s technicians are background-checked and drug-tested, providing an extra layer of security and comfort for families. They pride themselves on a “no-hassle” experience, meaning they show up, fix the problem efficiently, and get out of your way so you can get back to your routine.

Another area where The Pink Plumber shines is in their plumbing inspections. They offer thorough “whole-house” checks that look at every valve, pipe, and fixture to ensure everything is operating at peak efficiency. This proactive approach is perfect for people who live in some of Atlanta’s older neighborhoods where pipes can be decades old. By identifying weak points early, they help residents avoid the massive headaches associated with major leaks. Their branding might be fun and colorful, but their approach to plumbing is serious and professional.

4. RS Andrews

RS Andrews has a slogan that many Atlantans know by heart: “Story of a Smile.” Since 1968, they have been providing HVAC and plumbing services to the city, and they have managed to maintain a high level of quality for over half a century. This longevity is a testament to their ability to adapt to new technologies while maintaining a core focus on customer care. When you hire RS Andrews, you are hiring a company with deep roots in the community and a massive knowledge base to draw from. They have seen every possible plumbing issue Atlanta can throw at them.

Their plumbing division is particularly strong in the realm of major repairs and installations. If you are looking to repipe an entire house or install a complex filtration system, RS Andrews has the manpower and the expertise to handle it. They are also experts in garbage disposal repair and sump pump maintenance, two areas that are often overlooked until they fail. Their technicians are known for being very polite and respectful of the home, often wearing shoe covers and using drop cloths to protect flooring. This attention to detail is what keeps customers coming back year after year.

RS Andrews also offers a very robust service club membership. For a small monthly fee, members get annual inspections, priority service, and significant discounts on repairs. This is a fantastic option for long-term homeowners who want to ensure their plumbing system remains in top shape. They are a “one-stop-shop” for home services, which makes them very convenient for people who don’t want to manage multiple contractors. Their reputation for reliability is well-earned, and they remain one of the most trusted names in the Georgia plumbing industry.

5. TE Certified Electrical, Plumbing, Heating & Air

TE Certified is a company that has built its entire brand around the concept of “white glove” service. While they started with a focus on electrical work, their plumbing division has quickly become one of the most respected in Atlanta. The “TE” stands for “The Experts,” and they certainly live up to that name. Their technicians go through rigorous training that exceeds industry standards, ensuring they are prepared for even the most baffling plumbing mysteries. They are the kind of company you call when you want the job done perfectly the first time, with no excuses.

One of the things that makes TE Certified unique is their presentation. Their trucks are spotless, their technicians are in crisp uniforms, and they use the latest digital tools to provide estimates and invoices. They specialize in high-end residential work, making them a favorite for homeowners in areas like Sandy Springs and Milton. They offer a full range of services, including gas line repair, water softening systems, and high-tech leak detection. They are also very skilled at installing luxury fixtures, so if you are upgrading your bathroom with a high-tech shower system or a smart toilet, they are the ones to call.

Customer feedback for TE Certified is consistently stellar, with many people praising their punctuality and the thoroughness of their explanations. They don’t just fix the leak; they explain why it happened and what can be done to prevent it in the future. They also offer a lifetime warranty on many of their installations, which is a bold claim that demonstrates their confidence in their work. For those who value professionalism and high-quality craftsmanship above all else, TE Certified is an outstanding choice.

6. Zurn Plumbing Service

Zurn Plumbing Service is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the Atlanta area since 1985. There is something to be said for a company that has stayed in the family for decades; it often leads to a higher level of personal accountability and pride in the work. Zurn has managed to grow into a large, capable company while still maintaining that personal touch. They handle both residential and commercial plumbing, which gives them a broad perspective on different types of systems and challenges.

They are particularly well-known for their “Precision Leak Detection” service. Using specialized acoustic equipment and thermal imaging, they can find leaks behind walls or under concrete slabs with incredible accuracy. This saves homeowners from unnecessary demolition and helps keep repair costs down. Zurn is also a leader in backflow prevention and testing, a service that is vital for both safety and legal compliance in many parts of the city. Their expertise in sewer and septic systems is also top-notch, making them a great resource for people living in more suburban or rural parts of the metro area.

The team at Zurn is known for being very down-to-earth and easy to talk to. They don’t try to upsell you on things you don’t need, and they are always willing to provide multiple options for a repair depending on your budget and long-term goals. This honesty has earned them a very loyal customer base. They are also very responsive to inquiries, often getting back to customers much faster than the larger national chains. If you want a plumber who feels like a trusted neighbor, Zurn Plumbing Service is a fantastic option.

7. Head’s Plumbing Sales and Service

Head’s Plumbing Sales and Service is a true Atlanta original. They have been operating in the area for over 35 years and have a deep connection to the local community, particularly on the south side of the city. As a family-owned business, they place a high value on reputation and word-of-mouth referrals. They have survived and thrived for decades by simply doing good work at a fair price. They are the kind of plumbers who remember your name and the history of your home’s plumbing system.

They offer a wide array of services, but they are especially well-regarded for their kitchen and bathroom remodeling support. If you are looking to update your home, they can handle all the plumbing aspects of the project, ensuring that everything is up to code and perfectly installed. They also have a retail side to their business, which gives them unique access to a wide variety of parts and fixtures that other plumbers might have to special order. This can often lead to faster repair times since they have the necessary components on hand.

Head’s Plumbing is also known for their expertise in dealing with older plumbing systems. Atlanta has many homes built in the early 20th century, and these require a specific set of skills to maintain. They know how to work with galvanized pipes, cast iron, and other materials that modern plumbers might not be as familiar with. Their technicians are seasoned pros who don’t get rattled by unexpected complications. For reliable, straightforward service with a personal touch, Head’s Plumbing is a pillar of the Atlanta community.

8. Superior Plumbing

If you have lived in Atlanta for more than a week, you have likely seen a Superior Plumbing truck or heard one of their radio advertisements. They are one of the largest plumbing companies in the region, and they have achieved that size through a relentless focus on customer service and community involvement. Superior Plumbing is very active in local charities and sports, making them a very visible part of the Atlanta landscape. They have a massive team of licensed plumbers, which means they can handle a high volume of calls without sacrificing quality.

One of the hallmarks of Superior Plumbing is their “Fixed Right or It’s Free” guarantee. This is a powerful promise that gives customers immediate confidence. They offer everything from basic drain cleaning to major sewer line replacements. They are also very proficient in water heater technology, including the latest energy-efficient models. Because they are such a large company, they have access to the best equipment in the industry, including high-powered jetting machines and advanced camera inspection tools. They are a great choice for people who want a company with significant resources and a proven track record.

Despite their size, Superior Plumbing works hard to ensure that every customer feels valued. They have a very organized dispatch system that keeps you updated on when your plumber will arrive, and their technicians are trained to be thorough and communicative. They also offer 24/7 emergency service, which is essential in a city as busy as Atlanta. Their “Superior” name isn’t just marketing; it’s a standard they strive to meet with every service call they take.

9. Ridgeway Mechanical

Ridgeway Mechanical is a specialist in a very specific and important area: repiping. Many homes built in the Atlanta area during the 80s and 90s were outfitted with polybutylene pipes, which are prone to failure and leaking over time. Ridgeway has positioned themselves as the experts in identifying and replacing these problematic systems. If you live in a home from that era and are worried about your pipes, these are the people you want to talk to. They have refined the repiping process to be as minimally invasive as possible, often completing entire houses in just a few days.

Of course, they do much more than just repiping. They are a full-service plumbing company that handles everything from leaky faucets to water main repairs. They are known for their technical expertise and their ability to solve problems that other plumbers might find too difficult. They are also very transparent about their pricing, often providing flat-rate quotes so you know exactly what the job will cost before they even start. This takes the guesswork out of the process and helps build trust with their clients.

The team at Ridgeway Mechanical is also very focused on the latest plumbing innovations. They are big proponents of tankless water heaters and smart home water monitoring systems. These devices can alert you to a leak on your smartphone before it causes any damage—a feature that any tech-savvy gamer or homeowner would appreciate. They are a forward-thinking company that combines traditional mechanical skills with modern technology to provide some of the best plumbing solutions in Georgia.

10. Morningside Plumbing

Rounding out our list is Morningside Plumbing, a company that has been serving the Midtown, Virginia Highland, and Morningside neighborhoods for over 50 years. Because they focus on these specific, historic areas, they have become the absolute experts on the unique plumbing challenges found in older Atlanta homes. They understand the quirks of century-old sewer lines and the delicate nature of vintage fixtures. If you live in a historic home and are afraid of a plumber coming in and “modernizing” it in a way that ruins its charm, Morningside Plumbing is the safe choice.

They offer a very personalized level of service. When you call them, you are likely to speak with someone who knows your neighborhood and perhaps even your specific street. They specialize in water line replacement, sewer repair, and high-quality fixture installation. They are also very skilled at working in tight spaces, which is often a requirement in older urban homes. Their technicians are highly experienced and have a reputation for being problem-solvers who can find creative solutions to difficult plumbing layouts.

Morningside Plumbing is also highly rated for their integrity. They are known for telling customers when a repair is necessary and when it can wait, which is a level of honesty that is deeply appreciated. They have a very loyal following of customers who wouldn’t dream of calling anyone else. While they might not be the largest company on this list, their deep local knowledge and commitment to craftsmanship make them an essential part of the Atlanta plumbing scene. They are the perfect example of a local business that does one thing and does it exceptionally well.

In conclusion, finding a great plumber in Atlanta doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you go with the top-tier service of Fix & Flow Plumbing or one of the other excellent options on this list, you can rest easy knowing that your home is in good hands. Each of these companies brings something unique to the table, from specialized historic home expertise to high-tech leak detection. The key is to choose the one that best fits your specific needs and your neighborhood. Once you have a reliable plumber in your contacts, you can get back to your gaming, your work, and your life without worrying about what’s happening under your sinks or behind your walls. Atlanta is a great place to live, and with the right professionals on your side, even a plumbing emergency is just a minor boss fight that you are well-equipped to win.

Level Up Your Gaming Den: Why Natural Light is the Ultimate Upgrade for Your Setup

Level Up Your Gaming Den: Why Natural Light is the Ultimate Upgrade for Your Setup

Every gamer knows the feeling of getting lost in a digital world for hours on end. We spend thousands of dollars on the fastest processors, the most ergonomic chairs, and the flashiest RGB lighting to create the perfect atmosphere. However, many of us overlook the single most important element of our physical environment: the light. While the “gamer cave” aesthetic usually involves blackout curtains and neon strips, a professional skylight replacement can actually be the secret weapon that transforms your space into a high-performance sanctuary. Natural light is not just about seeing your keyboard better; it is about creating a space where your mind and body can thrive during those marathon sessions.

Transitioning from a dark, enclosed room to one filled with sunshine can change the way you interact with your games. It breathes life into your decor and makes your high-end hardware look even more impressive. In this guide, we will explore why natural light is the ultimate upgrade for your gaming den and how you can integrate it into your home without sacrificing that immersive vibe you love. From health benefits to aesthetic improvements, let’s dive into why it is time to let the sun shine on your setup.

Furthermore, the shift toward natural light is becoming a major trend in the gaming community. Influencers and streamers are moving away from the “windowless basement” look in favor of bright, airy studios that feel more professional and inviting. By upgrading your light source, you are not just following a trend; you are investing in a setup that supports your long-term passion for gaming.

The Hidden Health Benefits of Gaming in Natural Light

We often joke about gamers never seeing the sun, but the lack of Vitamin D is a serious issue that can affect your gameplay. Sunlight is the primary source of Vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining bone health and a strong immune system. When you spend all day in a dark room, your body misses out on these vital nutrients, leading to fatigue and a lack of motivation. By introducing a skylight or a large window, you allow your body to soak up the sun while you climb the ranked ladders.

In addition to physical health, natural light plays a massive role in regulating your circadian rhythm. This is your body’s internal clock that tells you when to be awake and when to sleep. Artificial blue light from monitors can mess with this rhythm, making it hard to wind down after a late-night session. Sunlight helps reset this clock every morning, ensuring that you stay alert during the day and sleep deeply at night. Better sleep leads to better reaction times, which every competitive gamer knows is the difference between a win and a loss.

Finally, natural light is much easier on the eyes than harsh fluorescent bulbs or the constant flicker of LED strips. Eye strain is a common complaint among gamers, often leading to headaches and blurred vision. The soft, diffused glow of natural light reduces the contrast between your screen and the surrounding room, which helps your eyes relax. This means you can play longer and more comfortably without feeling like your eyes are burning by the end of the night.

Enhancing Visual Clarity and Setup Aesthetics

If you have spent a lot of money on a high-end PC case with tempered glass and custom cable management, you want people to see it. While RGB lighting is great for a futuristic look, nothing beats the way natural light brings out the true colors and textures of your gear. Sunlight reveals the fine details of your setup that artificial light often flattens. It makes your desk feel like a premium workstation rather than just a corner where you play games.

Moreover, natural light can actually improve the way you see your monitor. High-quality skylights provide a consistent source of light that doesn’t create the same harsh hotspots as a desk lamp. This diffused light helps fill the room evenly, reducing the “void” feeling of a dark room. When the room is properly lit, your peripheral vision isn’t constantly straining to make sense of shadows, allowing you to focus entirely on the action happening on your screen.

When it comes to content creation, natural light is a game-changer. If you stream on Twitch or record videos for YouTube, you know that lighting is the most expensive and difficult part of your production. A well-placed skylight provides professional-grade lighting for free. It gives your skin a natural tone and makes your background look clean and vibrant. Instead of fumbling with ring lights and softboxes, you can simply use the power of the sun to look your best for your audience.

Boosting Focus and Mental Performance

Gaming is a mentally taxing activity that requires intense focus and quick decision-making. Studies have shown that people working or playing in rooms with natural light have higher levels of productivity and better cognitive function. Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that helps you stay calm, focused, and in a good mood. If you find yourself getting “tilted” or frustrated easily, a lack of sunlight might be part of the problem.

For those living in the Greater Toronto Area, the weather can often be grey and gloomy, which makes it even more important to maximize the light you do get. If you are looking to truly optimize your environment, we highly recommend reaching out to Toronto Skylight Installers, skylight repairs & replacement. They are experts at bringing the outdoors in, ensuring that your gaming den is filled with energy-boosting light all year round. Their professional installation means you don’t have to worry about leaks or drafts, just pure, beautiful sunlight.

Additionally, a bright room feels larger and less claustrophobic. Many gaming setups are tucked away in small bedrooms or basements. Adding a vertical light source like a skylight opens up the ceiling and makes the room feel much more spacious. This psychological sense of “space” can reduce stress and prevent that “cooped up” feeling that often comes after a long day of gaming. When your environment feels open, your mind feels more creative and ready to tackle the next challenge.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency for Your Home

We all know that a high-end gaming PC can draw a lot of power, and keeping the lights on all day only adds to the electricity bill. By utilizing natural light, you can significantly reduce your reliance on artificial lighting during the day. This not only saves you money that could be better spent on new games or hardware upgrades, but it is also better for the environment. It is a win-win situation for your wallet and the planet.

Modern skylights are also designed with incredible insulation properties. They can help keep your gaming room warmer in the winter by capturing solar heat and cooler in the summer by using advanced coatings that block UV rays. This thermal regulation is important because gaming PCs generate a lot of heat. Having a well-ventilated skylight can even help pull hot air out of the room, keeping your components—and you—at the optimal temperature during intense gameplay.

Investing in your home’s infrastructure also adds long-term value to your property. While a new graphics card will be obsolete in three years, a high-quality skylight adds value to your home that lasts for decades. It is one of the few “gaming upgrades” that actually makes your house more attractive to future buyers. It shows that you care about the quality of your living space just as much as your digital performance.

Overcoming the “Glare” Myth: How to Position Your Setup

The most common reason gamers avoid windows is the fear of glare on their screens. There is nothing worse than being in a clutch moment and being blinded by a reflection. However, this is a problem that is easily solved with proper planning. Unlike side windows, skylights provide light from above, which is much easier to control. By positioning your desk so that the light falls behind or beside your monitor rather than directly onto it, you can enjoy a bright room without any reflections.

Another solution is the use of specialized blinds or diffusers. Many modern skylights come with remote-controlled shades that allow you to adjust the light level with the press of a button. If the sun is too intense during the mid-afternoon, you can simply dim it down. This gives you total control over your environment, allowing you to switch from a bright, productive workspace to a dark, cinematic movie theater mode in seconds.

Furthermore, many modern gaming monitors come with anti-glare coatings that are specifically designed to handle bright environments. When you combine a good monitor with a strategically placed light source, the “glare” problem virtually disappears. You get all the benefits of a beautiful, sunlit room without any of the drawbacks. It is all about working with the light rather than fighting against it.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Level Up

Upgrading your gaming den with natural light is about more than just aesthetics; it is about creating a better lifestyle for yourself. It improves your health, boosts your mental performance, and makes your setup look like a million bucks. While we often focus on the digital side of gaming, the physical space we inhabit is just as important for our success and happiness. Don’t settle for a dark cave when you could be gaming in a bright, inspiring studio.

If you are ready to take your setup to the next level, don’t wait. Contact the professionals at Toronto Skylight Installers, skylight repairs & replacement to see how they can transform your home. Whether you need a brand-new installation or a quick repair to your existing setup, they have the expertise to get the job done right. Give your eyes, your mind, and your PC the environment they deserve. Visit their website or check them out on Google Maps today to start your journey toward a brighter gaming experience.

📍 Visit Toronto Skylight Installers, skylight repairs & replacement

Address: 2 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON, Canada, Ontario

Phone: +14163657557

Website: https://torontoskylightinstallers.ca/

View on Google Maps →

My Christmas Gift to You

Happy Christmas! I hope you’ve had as much fun as I have this year. This holiday season, I’d like to thank all my readers and subscribers, by sharing what I consider my greatest achievement in Second Life to date: Paradise Lost – The Movie. Here’s how to redeem your gift:

Step 1

Click this button to subscribe.

Click Here to Sign up

Step 2

Once you complete the form, you’ll get to a page that looks like this, asking you to confirm your subscription. Feel free to share this gift with others in your network using the social media buttons.

Step 3

To confirm your subscription, look in your email for a message that looks like this. Click the button to get on my list. If you don’t confirm your subscription, I won’t add you.

On Christmas morning, I’ll send you an email with a link to the free movie. There’ll be no need to log in. The link will take you directly to the movie which you’ll be able to enjoy and share with your friends.

Here’s that button again

Click this button to subscribe.

Click Here to Sign up

A few questions and answers

  1. When is the movie available? You can get on the list now, but you need to wait for Christmas morning to unwrap it like all the other nice little boys and girls.
  2. Is this a ticket to a movie inworld, or on your website? I am giving access to the video on my website. There are no scheduled inworld performances, although I do consider screening the movie for groups inworld when I get requests.
  3. If I’ve already subscribed to canarybeck.com, do I have to do it again to get the free movie? No, you don’t. I’ll send the free movie link to everyone on my list on Christmas morning. If you’re unsure if you are a subscriber, feel free to subscribe again to be sure.
  4. Does this affect existing subscribers who have paid for the movie on the SL marketplace? No, you’ll still be able to view the movie using your existing subscription. I am offering this gift to my current and new subscribers.
  5. Will you provide refunds to those who have already purchased tickets? No, I sold tickets to this movie to those who wanted to see it sooner than later, and to those who wanted the mesh audience avatar included in the ticket. I am now giving this product as a gift to subscribers.
  6. Can I unsubscribe after I get the movie link? Sure you can, but I hope you won’t. Paradise Lost The Movie is just one example of the quality content I like to share. I hope you enjoy my writing too, but if you would rather unsubscribe at any time, that’s ok too.

Best wishes for happy holidays!

My evolving view on blog comments

I’ve started to practice Aikido. That sounds impressive. At the moment, it mostly involves me having far more skilled people repeatedly throw me to the mat.

Make no mistake, I love it. And, I plan to become a lot better at it. Why? Because practitioners of Aikido defend themselves without harming their opponent. Instead, they sense an attacker’s intentions and respond in a way that incapacitates them.

The philosophy behind Aikido aligns with what matters to me. Because of this, I’m already noticing how I can use the principles of Aikido in other aspects of my life.

Case in point: My evolving view on blog comments.

Random, I know. My mind works in orthogonal ways. Here’s what I mean:

When I was a less experienced blogger, I would relish the sight of a blog comment. Ooh! Someone noticed my blog! And they took the time to comment! Win!

Since then I’ve written 480 blog posts and published over 2,694 approved comments. That’s cool. I’m happy many people have taken the time to comment thoughtfully and with consideration. I’ve enjoyed some of the conversations I’ve had.

Here’s what I don’t like:

  • Uncivilised discussion. Stupid or ugly comments that do nothing to further the conversation.
  • Comments from people who didn’t take the time to read the article.
  • Comments from anonymous posters intending to attack me or other commenters
  • Pointless comment spam. My spam blocker (Akismet) has blocked 12,731 spam comments since August 2015. Still, spammers are getting smarter. Too much spam requires my personal attention to delete. Comments like these wastes my time. I could spend this time doing much more productive things.

Unproductive comments on my personal blog are more than enough. I have also had to contend with comments on other sites to which I contribute.

Commenters on SL Blogger Support tend to comment politely even when they disagree. Perhaps it’s the nature of the community there. For this reason, I’ve been happy to write 22 articles for this blog in 2015. I’ve published 334 comments associated with these posts, almost all constructive.

Commenters on New World Notes are plentiful, anonymous and (perhaps consequently) much less helpful. With few exceptions, reading comments on Hamlet’s, Iris’s and my posts is not rewarding. I’ve thus limited my posting to that site. Who’s got time for that? Hamlet seems to have the stomach for it. That’s not an area I want to develop.

Firestorm is one of Second Life’s most high traffic sites. Thousands of people read every post, and many people comment too. Upwards of 50 per post. Firestorm’s comment policy is ‘anything goes’, with which I don’t agree. But it’s their blog, and they make the rules. I can accept getting hate mail because my principal activity with Firestorm isn’t blogging. My goal there is much bigger, so it’s worth it.

I told someone close to me that I was preparing myself for loads of hate mail from my next Firestorm blog post. Surprised, they looked at me and asked: “Hate mail? Why would you get hate mail from volunteering to help people?”

I had to ponder the question and realised I’d become accustomed to this new reality. I didn’t like that I had and that feeling was a catalyst to doing something about it.

Indeed, how is that behaviour even possible, let alone acceptable? It doesn’t happen in my day to day work. I’ve never in my life been the recipient of the vitriol I’ve received while blogging in Second Life. And it’s not because I’m a doormat elsewhere. I voice my opinions in all domains of life. My feelings don’t generate such odious passion in people I interact with in day to day life! Only here. Only in Second Life.

On my blog, I’ve considered disabling comments altogether. Bigger blogs have led the way in this regard – including Re/code and Copyblogger. Both these sites and others cite similar concerns as I’ve listed above. Trends suggest that more people comment on social media. Some argue that social media is a better place for such conversations. Besides, there’s greater SEO value in that as well.

Copyblogger has since reversed their decision, deciding to apply a comment policy instead.

And this leads me to my Aikido move:

As of this day forward, I’m implementing a comment policy on this blog, much like Copyblogger’s:

I welcome thoughtful and civilised discussion. I reserve the right to edit or delete comments as I see fit, without explanation.

Ok, it’s the same as Copyblogger’s. There’s no sense in reinventing the wheel is there?

How should your comments look? Your comment

  • Will have a way to identify you as a commenter
  • Is smart, relevant and expands on the article’s premise. Read the article before you comment.
  • Carries the conversation forward
  • Offers useful and constructive criticism
  • Is any combination of the above

Here’s how to get your comment blocked (or deleted after the fact in case I am sloppy):

  • You show you didn’t read, watch or listen to the content
  • Your comment is an off-topic rant
  • You threaten or defame anyone
  • You are a douchebag (I don’t need to spell it out, everyone knows).

A few other tidbits:

  • I will moderate comments to allow comments from people who register and log in to comment. I recommend signing up with Gravatar.
  • I will automatically close comments on articles older than seven days
  • I will manually approve comments that fit the above criteria.

What if you want to want to comment on something I write but don’t wish to abide by my rules? That’s simple. Put it on your site, not mine. If you want to link to my posts, that’s fine too.

As a final word: I want to thank everyone who’s taken the thought and care into writing well-reasoned and considered comments on my blog posts. This policy won’t affect you at all.

I’ve loved having you. Is there something in my post that strikes a chord? Is there something I’ve written with which you disagree? Is there something you’d like to amplify or counter? Go ahead, make those points! All I ask is that you do it with grace.

As a result of this move, I expect to see a marked drop in comments to this blog. That’s great! It’s just another stride towards quality and away from quantity.