Just looking for something to spice up my evening make it a bit less boring. Let’s just both ponder on one of those fun hypothetical questions and hopefully that’s a good enough icebreaker to become fast friends

hey all! I graduated college a few weeks ago and have since been going out of my mind in this weird limbo before starting work. everyone else it seems has already moved onto whats next so here I am in this strange feeling of constant isolation, but thats where you come in! take advantage of my copious amounts of free time and lets waste time together!!
some fun facts about me:

• i play guitar and piano, lots of taylor swift (which i am not ashamed of)
• i collect vinyl! (see above for what artist i have the most of)
• im a yapper so be warned
• i jump between six different hobbies every 20 minutes in a desperate attempt to keep myself entertained throughout the day
• wacky sleep schedule honestly
• i go to concerts a lot (my wallet doesnt like it but i do)
• i fear i have gotten back into playing webkinz lately....

some icebreaker questions so that you dont have an excuse to message me one word:

• pitch a new invention
• how do you feel about sparkling water?
• what silly names did you give your plushies as a kid?

PLEASE HELP!
I'd appreciate some feedback on my resume. I'm applying for a bank teller position and transitioning away from photography and graphic design. I've previously applied for administrative assistant and bank teller roles but wasn't considered. Interviewers often focus on my experience as a wedding photographer and my graphic design background, which I get is the majority of my experience. I’m from a small island with no networking other than the highly saturated and low paying photography/graphic design field.
Besides a cover letter tailored to each application, how can I shift the focus away from my photography background? Or is this a good icebreaker question? The usual questions I get is why I no longer want to be a photographer and why I'm applying for a role so different from photography. It gets tiring to explain that I know how to answer a phone, use a fax machine, count cash, and other basic office stuff.
My explanation is that the pandemic has shown the instability in the tourism and wedding market, and I’m looking for a upward mobility in a more stable career. I also explain that while the job is different, my approach to photography involves skills valuable for a bank teller role. I excel at customer service, understanding customer needs, and delivering results promptly.
Most times, interviewers ask if I’m still a photographer and how much my rate is or if I can do social media. Please help me.
Resume Details: Font: Arial Nova Font size: 10 All Margins: 0.5
TL;DR: Transitioning from photography to bank teller. Need resume advice on shifting focus away from my photography background in interviews.

Not necessarily a spoiler unless dick size adds to the plot for you, scroll away if so!
Edit: thank you for letting me ask this dirty question and for your responses :)
I might be the only one with this question, but maybe not... When reading books like ACOTAR, Things We Left Behind, Fourth Wing, Icebreaker, etc. the author mentions the MMC or another character being so big it's a miracle they fit in mouths and other places. But... how big are we talking? Is Cassian, Lord of Bloodshed, hiding 8 inches in his Illyrian leathers? Does Nate Hawkins permanently have a dick-print showing through his pants? I need to know

Heyyy, I'm looking for my forever player 2 :) Someone I can open up to about struggles and tough decisions. Spend quality time with and just get to know on a deep level instead of a surface level thingie :) (Please make sure the read the entire thing)

• I'm 25, from Pennsylvaniaa. I'm 6'2 and I think I'm cute! Long hair and a beard, I wear glasses and I'm in good shape. Not ripped or anything but I'm healthy :)
  
• With my spare time I like to play vibeo games, only PC games though I don't really dabble with Console or controllers. My main games are League of Legends (IM NOT TOXIC) Minecraft, Elden Ring, Monster Hunter World, and well a billion other gamesss. Aside from that, I like to binge watch shows or movies, and paint Warhammer 40k and Etsy Busts! It's a load of fun and really relaxing for me.
  
• I'm pretty shy when meeting people for the first time so please be patient with me. That or my 80HD snaps in and I can talk endlessly. Just depends on how well we click :) Am a bit introverted and prefer the comfort of my home or company if going anywhere. You won't catch me solo clubbing that's for sure.
  
• Can be a very affectionate person. Idk what my love language is but I really just enjoy making people happy and doing whatever I can to brighten up their days. I love spending time together doing things we're both interested in. Watching movies or shows, playing games maybe? Or just chatting and hanging out :)
  

Lastly : I would love to meet another gamer, it's not a requirement but just something additional to bond with and possibly do together. But having a person who is okay with taking things slow and just seeing if we're a good fit would be nice!
A question for you though! Are there any hobbies you really enjoy doing, or want to get into?? That could be our lil icebreaker :)
Okay thank you for reading! Please tell me about yourself :) I hate to even say this but, no intro equals no response.. Thankies.

Hi all,
As described in the title, I am going to meet my gfs mother for first time. We’re from south india if that helps.
For perspective, my gf is undergoing a surgery, so I will be meeting in a hospital which means my gf wont be present with us after initial meeting so it leaves just two of us for 2-3 hours.
I need some icebreakers and topics to keep the discussion going instead of an awkward silence for such a big duration (happened once in a call, so not gonna let that happen again). Can you all suggest some pointers to have some conversation ?
Also since the meeting is not a regular one and is in hospital. Should I get something for my gfs mother specifically. If so can u suggest some gifts as well?

Hope all is well. I’m a British guy looking for conversation, excitement and laughs.
I have a really intense day job - so looking for distractions and fun! Companionship predominantly but if there’s a connection then awesome! I’m off work today, it’s nice to relax and get to know someone!
I’m a former stand up comedian, currently working on getting fit and recently garnered an obsession for reading, diy and vinyl records! Come and start a book club with me?
I appreciate this is short and sweet but I believe that dorky icebreaker games are amazing and will take any opportunity to play one! So don’t be shy, reach out and let’s play pick a number or 20 questions! Let’s fill our Monday’s with more smiles and hopefully enjoy just chatting!
All the best,
S x

Hi all,
As described in the title, I am going to meet my gfs mother for first time. We’re from south india if that helps.
For perspective, my gf is undergoing a surgery, so I will be meeting in a hospital which means my gf wont be present with us after initial meeting so it leaves just two of us for 2-3 hours.
I need some icebreakers and topics to keep the discussion going instead of an awkward silence for such a big duration. Can you all suggest something for the same?
Also since the meeting is not a regular one and is in hospital. Should I get something for my gfs mother specifically. If so can u suggest some gifts as well?

Unlike the uptight men, ten miles into the woods, who I had met around a campfire at 1:00 a.m. years ago, with neatly gelled and styled hair. This was, and always will be, a top tier icebreaker question, as I believed then and still feel today. I am female for context, and these jabronis (friends of the guy I was casually dating) about 4 of them, repeatedly and annoyingly asked my girlfriend and I for beer, liquor, smoke, party favors, you name it, all while attempting to make us feel less then throughout the night. Picture “do you know who my father is?”
They lied , men in their mid 30s, and stated they haven’t pooped their pants since infancy. At the time I was a bartender and declared them cut off…from receiving not one more of my supplies until the truth was revealed.
So I would like to know…
when was the last time you shit your pants?
**I will also accept and love to hear of any funny stories about witnessing someone else shit their pants.
I’ll start with the latter (I gave my own account years ago in the campfire fraternity meeting)
Example story: My now ex boyfriend of 3 years (not above) and I were out in the desert with some friends off-roading about 30 miles from our cars on 4x4s and dirt bikes. We had all been camping and drinking for days, and mid ride my bf shouted to the entire convoy that we must pull over and stop the ride because, he needed to shit. We pulled over and he trailed off into the abyss with about 1/4 tp roll in hand. 10 mins or so had passed while the group chatted away. Suddenly, echoing off the valley of arches and sandstone walls, we were interrupted by the cries of a grown man, “Ahhhh” followed by the shouting of my name, followed by the shouting of “please! pause Bring some baby wipes pause and a water bottle!” Knowing this was a group of notorious jokesters including myself, I had no idea what lie ahead, yet as a wonderful gf I grabbed the tools and hiked on over to see what the big commotion was. Before my eyes was the man I shared a bed with, naked covering his manhood with one hand extending the other upward towards myself and the offerings at the base of a 7 foot ditch, covered (length and width) lower back to the crown of his head, in feces. His shirt and shorts were not spared as my eyes took in the scenery trying to understand the situation. They were hanging like a clothes line “neatly” on a nearby branch to dry out, on display like a redneck mud bath. Still, my brain could not comprehend what exactly I was gazing upon. As I laughed and questioned, I was told to toss the supplies avert my eyes and get lost. I headed out on over towards our friends and obviously needed to let the others know he was safe and detailed the information to them to confirm safety measures were given properly. Time passes, and he emerges out of a mirage, as the four of us wait. The man now has pants on but holds the shirt and water bottle and proceeds to tell us the full story. He had sat upon a branch that hung over a Ditch for optimal viewing and seating of the vast desert valley and apparently had a very upset stomach. As he finished his business, seated upon the brittle tree that received an inch of rain per year, he attempted to do a little jiggle/butt jump to pull his shorts on. It was at this moment, the poor tree limb gave way and dropped him into a slip and slide he and all of us, will never forget. 30 miles at the least an hour + of very sketchy terrain, from Fresh undies, shorts, shirt, soap and sanity. Timestamp does not include the pause needed for rib clenching laughter and pointing.
TLDR: do you have a story of the last time you popped your pants? Or have you witnessed a friend, foe, or stranger pooping their pants?
Example: TLDR: pooped pants in a tree, branch broke and slipped into diarrhea covering entire body

Are you a lone wolf tired of howling at the moon by yourself? by yourself? Ever feel like the universe is missing that one special connection? Well, do we have a deal for you!
Introducing: The Trio™️, a group of two sophomores and one junior with the perfect balance of brains, brawn, and questionable life choices. We’re on the hunt for the legendary Fourth Friend to complete our circle. We’re a new friend group who became close at the end of last semester — don’t worry, you won’t be missing out on too much.
Meet the Trio™️:
Sophomore #1: Resident know-it-all. Can quote obscure facts about geography. Known for their intense trivia game. Lies about his height
Sophomore #2 (me): The social coordinator. Also a short-tempered perfectionist who panics too often. Down bad for his TAs. DOES NOT lie about his height.
Junior: The wise elder (not that old, we promise). Survived two years and counting. Lies the most about his height.
What We Offer:
Spontaneous Adventures: From midnight snack runs to impromptu bike trips. GPS not always required.
Humor: If you enjoy a good roast and can dish it out as well as you can take it, welcome home.
Lasting Memories: We’re looking for memorable college experiences. We want core memories and aren’t looking to be a side-quest friend group.
What We’re Looking For:
Must be a male student at BU. Why? Because balance is key. Freshman. Sophomore. Junior. Senior. Doesn’t matter.
Must preserve the vibe of the friendship. This is the most important. We aren’t trying to fracture what we already have.
Possess a great sense of humor (bonus if you laugh at our terrible jokes).
Thick Skin: Wouldn’t work otherwise
Willing to partake in random, possibly regrettable, yet highly memorable activities.
Must have at least one party trick. No, seriously. It’s non-negotiable.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to roll with us, drop a comment below or slide into our DMs with your best icebreaker (Dad jokes are acceptable; puns are appreciated). Prepare to be grilled with questions like, “which historical figure would you have dinner with (and why would it be Barney the Dinosaur?)
Don’t let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity slip through your fingers. DM now! Operators (a.k.a., us) are standing by. 🚀
-The Trio

Source: 🔗 Chat with Lifelike Virtual Personalities — talkiemate.com
As technology continues to evolve, so does the way we form connections and relationships. AI dating apps have become increasingly popular, leveraging artificial intelligence to match users more effectively and create personalized dating experiences. In 2024, several AI dating apps stand out as top choices for those looking to find meaningful connections. This article explores the best AI dating apps of 2024, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
Introduction to AI Dating Apps
AI dating apps utilize artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze user data and preferences, improving match quality and user experience. These apps can learn from user interactions, preferences, and behaviors to provide better matches and more personalized recommendations.
TalkieMate.com: The Best AI Dating App
Website URL: TalkieMate.com
TalkieMate.com is a standout AI dating app that offers a unique and engaging dating experience. With advanced AI technology, TalkieMate.com provides highly personalized matches and interactions.
Features:
Free Trial: Allows users to explore the app and its features without any initial cost.
Vast Library of AI Characters: Users can interact with a variety of AI characters, making the experience more engaging.
Audio Chat with AI Assistant: Offers audio interactions, adding a layer of realism to conversations.
Pros:
High Privacy Standards: Ensures user data is kept secure and private.
User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate and use.
Diverse Interaction Options: Includes both text and audio interactions with AI characters.
Cons:
Subscription Costs: Some advanced features require a subscription.
Not Exclusively for Dating: While excellent for interactions, it is not solely focused on dating.
Tinder
Website URL: Tinder.com
Tinder remains one of the most popular dating apps globally. With its AI-driven recommendations and user-friendly interface, it continues to be a top choice.
Features:
Smart Photo: Uses AI to select the best photos for your profile.
Top Picks: AI-driven feature that highlights potential matches based on your preferences.
Swipe Feature: Simple and engaging swiping mechanism to like or pass on profiles.
Pros:
Large User Base: Millions of active users globally.
Easy to Use: Simple and intuitive interface.
Diverse Matching Options: Various features to find matches, including location-based searches.
Cons:
Subscription Costs: Some features require a premium subscription.
Superficial Matching: Often criticized for prioritizing appearance over personality.
Bumble
Website URL: Bumble.com
Bumble is known for its women-first approach, where women initiate the conversation. Its AI features enhance the user experience by providing smart match suggestions.
Features:
AI-Driven Recommendations: Suggests matches based on user behavior and preferences.
Verification: Uses AI to verify profiles and enhance security.
Bumble BFF and Bizz: Expands beyond dating to include finding friends and professional networking.
Pros:
Women-Centric: Empowers women to make the first move.
High Security: Strong emphasis on profile verification and safety.
Multiple Uses: Not just for dating but also for making friends and business connections.
Cons:
Limited Free Features: Many useful features require a subscription.
Gender Bias: May not appeal equally to all users.
eHarmony
Website URL: eHarmony.com
eHarmony uses a sophisticated AI algorithm to match users based on compatibility. It’s ideal for those looking for serious, long-term relationships.
Features:
Compatibility Matching System: Uses AI to analyze user profiles and match based on deep compatibility.
Guided Communication: Helps users start conversations and build connections.
Video Date: AI-powered feature for virtual dating.
Pros:
Focus on Long-Term Relationships: Designed for those seeking serious commitments.
High Success Rate: Many success stories from users finding long-term partners.
In-Depth Profiles: Comprehensive profile creation for better matches.
Cons:
Subscription Costs: Requires a paid subscription for full access.
Time-Consuming Setup: Detailed profile setup can be time-consuming.
Hinge
Website URL: Hinge.co
Hinge is designed to be deleted, meaning it aims to create real relationships that lead to users eventually leaving the app. Its AI-driven prompts and recommendations help users find meaningful connections.
Features:
AI-Powered Prompts: Uses AI to suggest conversation starters based on user profiles.
Most Compatible: AI suggests highly compatible matches daily.
We Met: Users can provide feedback on dates, helping the AI improve future matches.
Pros:
Focus on Relationships: Emphasizes meaningful connections over casual encounters.
Engaging Interface: Interactive prompts and questions enhance user interaction.
Positive User Feedback: High success rate and positive reviews from users.
Cons:
Limited Free Features: Some features require a subscription.
Learning Curve: May take time for new users to get used to the interface.
OkCupid
Website URL: OkCupid.com
OkCupid uses extensive questionnaires and AI algorithms to match users based on compatibility. It’s known for its inclusive approach to dating.
Features:
Extensive Questionnaires: AI uses user responses to match based on compatibility.
DoubleTake: AI-driven feature that highlights potential matches.
Profile Badges: AI assigns badges based on profile information and behavior.
Pros:
Inclusivity: Welcomes users of all orientations and identities.
Detailed Matching: In-depth matching based on personality and preferences.
Free Messaging: Users can message without a premium subscription.
Cons:
Subscription Options: Premium features require a subscription.
Profile Overload: Extensive questionnaires can be overwhelming for some users.
Coffee Meets Bagel
Website URL: CoffeeMeetsBagel.com
Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) provides quality matches through its AI-driven approach, offering one potential match per day based on compatibility.
Features:
Smart AI Matching: Uses AI to suggest highly compatible matches daily.
Detailed Profiles: Focuses on quality over quantity, with detailed profiles.
Conversation Starters: AI suggests personalized icebreakers.
Pros:
Quality Matches: Emphasis on meaningful connections with quality matches.
User-Friendly Interface: Easy to use and navigate.
Focused Approach: One match per day reduces overwhelm and encourages genuine connections.
Cons:
Limited Free Access: Full access to features requires a subscription.
Slow Matching: Only one match per day, which may not appeal to all users.
Plenty of Fish (POF)
Website URL: POF.com
Plenty of Fish offers a large user base and uses AI to enhance the matching process, providing users with daily match recommendations.
Features:
UltraMatch: AI-driven feature that suggests the best matches daily.
Chemistry Predictor: AI analyzes user interactions to predict chemistry.
MeetMe: AI suggests potential matches based on user preferences.
Pros:
Large User Base: Millions of active users, increasing the chances of finding a match.
Free Messaging: Allows users to message for free.
Diverse Features: Various tools and features to enhance the dating experience.
Cons:
Ads and Spam: Free version can be cluttered with ads.
Privacy Concerns: Some users have reported privacy issues.
Zoosk
Website URL: Zoosk.com
Zoosk uses its Behavioral Matchmaking technology, powered by AI, to provide personalized match suggestions based on user behavior.
Features:
Behavioral Matchmaking: AI learns from user interactions to suggest matches.
SmartPick: AI suggests potential matches based on compatibility.
Zoosk Carousel: AI-driven feature that allows users to quickly browse profiles.
Pros:
Behavioral Matching: Personalized match suggestions based on real user behavior.
User-Friendly: Easy to use with a simple interface.
Large User Base: Millions of active users worldwide.
Cons:
Subscription Costs: Requires a subscription for full access to features.
Profile Verification Issues: Some users have reported fake profiles.
HER
Website URL: WeAreHER.com
HER is an AI-driven dating app specifically designed for LGBTQ+ women, offering a safe and inclusive environment for finding love and connections.
Features:
AI-Powered Matching: AI suggests matches based on user preferences and behavior.
Community Features: Includes events and community features to enhance user interaction.
Verified Profiles: Ensures user authenticity and safety.
Pros:
Inclusive and Safe: Designed for LGBTQ+ women with a focus on safety and inclusivity.
Active Community: Engaging community features and events.
Verified Users: Strong emphasis on profile verification.
Cons:
Limited Free Features: Many features require a premium subscription.
Smaller User Base: Smaller compared to mainstream dating apps.
Conclusion
AI dating apps have revolutionized the way we find connections, offering personalized and efficient matchmaking processes. From the highly interactive and secure TalkieMate.com to the inclusive and community-focused HER, there are numerous options to suit different preferences and needs. By leveraging AI technology, these apps provide users with a better dating experience, making it easier to find meaningful connections in 2024.

I’m trying my luck again. I’ll keep this short so we still have lots of things to talk about.
I’M NOT:

• Rich
  
• Tall
  
• I don’t have a car
  
• A cook
  
• Handsome
  
• Talkative
  

But I AM:

• Friendly
  
• Working
  
• Passionate
  
• Has hobbies
  
• Has dreams and life goals
  
• Not a catfish or liar
  

And I AM LOOKING FOR:

• 26-30 years old
  
• Biologically female
  
• Any BMI as long as you’re not overweight (curvy is fine)
  
• Goes for personality rather than looks
  

HMU if you are interested. Send an interesting intro, please. Uninspired hi/hello will be ignored
Icebreaker question: What keeps you going in life despite its hardships?

I'm not as extroverted as most others around me, so I can see through lots of bullshit.
Lately people have been asking: "how's [family member] doing?", and I feel like it's just some ruse to force a long-winded conversation, all I can offer are SHORT ANSWERS. Apparently it doesn't have the same effect on me, as it does to others.
I have a delay in processing, which could explain why I often give SHORT ANSWERS to cope, not only that, but sometimes members of my family are SO BUSY, they are, how some people would describe it idiomatically, "harder to get to than the president", so naturally there isn't much of an answer there.
Also, sometimes when people are curious about family members, I also get this impression that they are just using them as "examples", or "placeholders" in the [name] entry of the "how's [name] doing?" question, rather than having genuous respect for those people.
People often come off nosy, and sometimes it's unnecessarily nosy, and sometimes downright rude, it gives me the impression that these people have nothing better to do than to drag people into their misery.
I grew up being told to follow rules, and some of the rules I was taught to follow involved not being allowed to be rude to people, of which is why the "misery loves company" phrase doesn't include me as an example of the "miserable" type who "loves company". If I wanna be around people, I wanna make sure I am in the right mood first.
I've already ranted about long-winded people not letting me have a turn to talk in previous posts, but sometimes people who ask icebreaker questions are enabling that type of behavior. The reason why people are enthused to give answers, is because they don't feel "put on the spot" by questions that barely threaten our privacy, like I would be.
People can be so INSENSITIVE to our feelings, and are CLUELESS to how different we really ar5e.
any thoughts?

Lecture Outline 1: Introduction and Overview of Holidays (Day 1)
Objective: Introduce students to the ten diverse holidays, emphasizing their cultural and religious significance.

1. Opening Discussion (15 minutes)
   
   • Begin with an icebreaker where students share their favorite holiday traditions.
   • Discuss the idea that holidays often carry cultural and religious significance.
2. Introduction to Holidays (20 minutes)
   
   • Briefly introduce each of the ten holidays, providing key information about their cultural and religious contexts.
   • Highlight the diversity represented and the importance of understanding different celebrations.
3. Class Discussion (15 minutes)
   
   • Engage the class in a discussion about the concept of cultural diversity and why it is essential in today's globalized world.
   • Encourage students to share their thoughts on the significance of learning about and appreciating various cultural celebrations.
4. Research Assignment (10 minutes)
   
   • Assign each student a holiday to research.
   • Provide resources and explain the focus on symbols, traditions, rituals, and historical background.
5. Closing Remarks and Homework Assignment (10 minutes)
   
   • Summarize the importance of cultural awareness and understanding.
   • Assign a reflective homework task: Write about one aspect of a holiday discussed that resonated with them.

Discussion Questions: 1. Why do you think understanding cultural diversity is important in our society? 2. How do holidays contribute to cultural identity? 3. What aspects of the holidays discussed intrigued you the most, and why?
Lecture Outline 2: Creative Expression and Writing (Day 2)
Objective: Encourage students to creatively express the cultural richness of the holidays through writing.

1. Opening Reflection (10 minutes)
   
   • Begin with a brief reflection on the previous day's introduction to holidays.
   • Discuss any insights or questions that arose from their homework reflections.
2. Creative Writing Exercise (30 minutes)
   
   • Guide students through a creative writing exercise, encouraging them to choose one holiday and write a short story or poem inspired by its traditions.
   • Emphasize the use of descriptive language to capture the cultural significance.
3. Peer Sharing and Discussion (15 minutes)
   
   • Students share their creative writing pieces with a partner or small group.
   • Encourage constructive feedback, focusing on how well the cultural aspects are conveyed.
4. Expressing Personal Culture (15 minutes)
   
   • Discuss the importance of expressing one's own cultural heritage.
   • Assign a short homework task: Write about a personal cultural tradition or celebration that is meaningful to them.

Discussion Questions: 1. How did your understanding of the holidays deepen through the creative writing exercise? 2. In what ways did you incorporate cultural elements into your writing? 3. Why is it important for individuals to express their own cultural heritage?
Lecture Outline 3: Presentations and Cultural Exchange (Day 3)
Objective: Facilitate student presentations and encourage cross-cultural discussions.

1. Opening Reflection (10 minutes)
   
   • Begin with a brief reflection on the creative writing exercise.
   • Discuss any challenges or discoveries students made while expressing cultural elements in their writing.
2. Individual Presentations (30 minutes)
   
   • Students present their personal cultural writing assignments to the class.
   • Encourage the use of visuals, artifacts, or personal stories to enhance presentations.
3. Group Activity: Cultural Exchange (20 minutes)
   
   • Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a holiday different from the one they researched.
   • Instruct them to discuss similarities, differences, and potential cross-cultural influences.

Week 1: Introduction to Poetry and Sonnets
Day 1: Overview of Poetry Styles - Activity: Icebreaker - Introduce yourself through a poetic name acrostic. - Lecture: Brief history of poetry, introduction to various styles. - Discussion: What draws you to poetry? Share your favorite poems.
Day 2: Understanding Sonnets - Activity: Analyze a classic sonnet together. - Lecture: Explanation of sonnet structure (Shakespearean and Petrarchan). - Discussion: Share initial impressions and feelings about sonnets.
Day 3: Writing Exercise - Crafting a Sonnet - Activity: Break down sonnet structure with examples. - Assignment: Write a sonnet exploring a personal experience or emotion. - Vocabulary Words: Quatrain, Couplet, Volta.
Day 4: Peer Review and Feedback - Activity: Peer review workshop for sonnets. - Lecture: Discuss common challenges and strategies in sonnet writing. - Discussion: Share insights gained from reviewing peers' work.
Day 5: Recap and Reflection - Activity: Reflect on the week's lessons and exercises. - Lecture: Overview of upcoming weeks. - Assignment: Write a short reflection on what you've learned about poetry and sonnets.
Study Guide Questions for Week 1: 1. What is the basic structure of a sonnet? 2. Compare and contrast Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnets. 3. How does the volta contribute to the meaning of a sonnet? 4. Discuss the role of rhyme and meter in sonnets. 5. Explore your personal connection to poetry. What emotions or themes resonate with you?
Quiz: A short quiz assessing understanding of sonnet structure, key terms, and the historical context of poetry.
Week 2: Embracing Haiku and Villanelle
Day 1: Understanding Haiku - Activity: Analyze classic haikus. - Lecture: Explain the traditional structure and themes of haikus. - Discussion: Share thoughts on the simplicity and depth of haikus.
Day 2: Crafting Haikus - Activity: Write haikus individually. - Lecture: Discuss the significance of nature in haikus. - Discussion: Share and discuss individual haikus.
Day 3: Unraveling the Villanelle - Activity: Analyze a famous villanelle. - Lecture: Explore the structure and repetition in villanelles. - Discussion: Discuss the impact of repeated lines on the overall theme.
Day 4: Writing Exercise - Composing a Villanelle - Activity: Break down the process of crafting a villanelle. - Assignment: Write a villanelle on the theme of memory or loss. - Vocabulary Words: Tercet, Refrain, Envoi.
Day 5: Peer Review and Feedback - Activity: Peer review workshop for villanelles. - Lecture: Discuss the challenges and beauty of crafting repetitive forms. - Discussion: Share insights gained from reviewing peers' villanelles.
Study Guide Questions for Week 2: 1. What defines a haiku? Discuss its structure and thematic elements. 2. Explore the cultural significance of nature in haikus. 3. What is the structure of a villanelle, and how does repetition contribute to its impact? 4. Discuss the emotions evoked by repeated lines in a villanelle. 5. Reflect on the process of crafting a villanelle. What challenges did you face?
Quiz: Assessment on the understanding of haikus, villanelles, and the effective use of repetition in poetry.

Lesson Plan: "Crafting Stories Through Song Lyrics"

Objective:

Students will learn various techniques for brainstorming and crafting compelling stories through song lyrics.

Duration:

Two class sessions (approx. 90 minutes each)

Lesson Structure:

Session 1: Introduction to Songwriting and Brainstorming Techniques

1. Icebreaker (15 mins):
   
   • Discuss favorite songs and what makes their lyrics memorable.
2. Introduction to Songwriting (20 mins):
   
   • Briefly explain the importance of storytelling in songwriting.
   • Highlight the connection between emotions and lyrics.
3. Brainstorming Techniques (30 mins):
   
   • Teach students ten ways to brainstorm lyrics, including:
     • Personal experiences
     • Observations
     • Emotions
     • Imagery
     • Metaphors
     • Word association
     • Dialogue
     • Change in perspective
     • Storyboarding
     • Concept exploration
4. Group Activity: Lyric Brainstorming (25 mins):
   
   • Divide students into small groups.
   • Provide a theme or emotion, and have each group brainstorm lyrics using the techniques discussed.

Session 2: Applying Techniques and Crafting Lyrics

1. Review (15 mins):
   
   • Discuss insights from the group activity.
   • Address any questions or challenges.
2. Song Analysis (20 mins):
   
   • Analyze lyrics from popular songs, highlighting the storytelling elements.
3. Activity: Writing Exercise (30 mins):
   
   • Provide a prompt or scenario.
   • Have students individually write a short set of lyrics using the brainstorming techniques.
4. Peer Review and Feedback (20 mins):
   
   • Students pair up to review and provide constructive feedback on each other's lyrics.
   • Emphasize the importance of constructive criticism.
5. Refinement (15 mins):
   
   • Allow time for students to refine their lyrics based on peer feedback.
6. Sharing and Reflection (20 mins):
   
   • Each student or group shares their lyrics with the class.
   • Reflect on the diversity of storytelling approaches.

Assessment:

• Evaluation will be based on creativity, adherence to storytelling principles, and effective use of brainstorming techniques.
• Peer feedback and participation in discussions will also contribute to the assessment.

Homework:

• Encourage students to continue exploring songwriting by writing a complete set of lyrics for a song outside of class.

This lesson plan provides a comprehensive overview of songwriting techniques, hands-on activities, and opportunities for reflection and improvement.

A young man contacted me online when I tried to sell my own hair so I quickly found out everything about him, learned who his parents were, found pictures of him, and asked him weird icebreaker questions on EBay. I didn’t believe his answers so I ruminated about it and began calling companies to report that I was upset by what I imagined was happening. That’s about it but several years later I’m reading his LinkedIn profile, searching podcast apps and listening to anything he’s been in, and cannot stop thinking or talking about the situation.
I think he’s stalking me.

I haven't had a pen pal in so long and would love to have 1-2 people in the U.S. to write to (and back). I appreciate getting to know people and even better when combined with handwritten notes. Looking to exchange about once a month or so, whatever transpires organically. Here's a bit about me:

• I work in public health and enjoy what I do
  
• I live in one of the hottest states (for now :D)
  
• Married/no kids
  
• I don't go super hard with hobbies but some things I like: Board games, video games, walking, pickleball, reading, audiobooks, true crime, watching TV, painting, and journaling. I recently started going shooting and that's been good too.
  
• One of my guilty pleasures is listening to old school rap
  
• I once lived in a house with 20 people (as a kid; I very much enjoy my space now)
  
• I like icebreaker type questions and would enjoy those with a pen pal
  

Message me if you're interested :)

I've had this happen to me twice now. I've met a woman while out and about. We exchanged numbers. We briefly texted back and forth. She stopped responding. Then I encountered her again on the street with her significant other.
What is going on here?
Just to give some background, I have a very adorable and friendly dog. He's an icebreaker with everyone, especially women. So, this was how I started talking to the women in both cases. I also tend to let women make the first ask. Women often complain that they get unwanted attention from men. So, while I express my interest (eye contact, compliments, questions, etc.), I usually let them suggest that we meet again. I also give them my number rather than asking for theirs. This way they can choose to text me or not, and they don't have to feel any pressure in the moment.
Anyway, this is exactly how it went in both cases. We had a nice conversation. No mention of a boyfriend. She never dropped a "we" into the conversation or anything like that. She suggested that we meet again. I said, "Sounds great, here's my number." She texted me something like "Hi, it's XYZ!" I responded with "Hi XYZ! Enjoyed our conversation. How about we meet at a café and chat? I’ll bring the puppy!" or something similar. No response. That's fine. People change their minds.
However, a few weeks later I see her on the street with their boyfriend. In the first case, we didn't talk. But I assume they’re a couple because I've seen them twice together since. And once they were grocery shopping. With the second woman, it was more clear. Our dogs started playing together on the sidewalk before I realized who it was. She gave me a sheepish grin and she said "I think our dogs have met." So, I had another nice conversation with her... and her boyfriend. They live nearby together and had moved to town about a year ago. Of course, I didn’t mention anything about the texting. He seemed nice enough. 😂
I can only assume these women are looking for some kind of external affirmation or validation that they're still desirable to other men. Maybe I just misread both situations? What do you think?
EDIT1: Just to be clear, I met both of them initially with no BF present or mentioned. Then I bumped into them later when they were with their BF.
EDIT2: I am mildly flirtatious in these conversations. I don’t think it should come as a surprise that I’m interested, even though I let her make the first ask.