…From BarbTUSA

Hey gals! So much as happened since we met through our group on Meetup.Com.  I’m so grateful for our connection and hate that I’ve had to be away for so long. My life has changed dramatically over the last 18 months, and the change has been good  but I do miss the lights of Albuquerque and YOU ~ the women who dare to make a difference!

This past winter I took time out to go to the theater to see the movie Avatar. I was so intrigued over the virtual world James Cameron had created for the movie that I embarked on an adventure to see what a 3D virtual world might offer someone with my background. I am happy to report that I found a place where business is thriving in ways I never imagined possible. I have gotten back to my artistic roots and when I am not busy helping a successful gallery and its artists in real life, I am creating a new economy in the metaverse through Jewle (pronounced Julie) Rae.

After three months of research, on April 22, 2010I decided to officially embrace and accept the reality of Web 4.0 (Web4). The time has come for us all to learn how to handle avatars and I’ve acquired an island for us in the 3D virtual world of Second Life and would love to have you join me for socializing events and immersive learning experiences in there! And, if you want to expand those meetings to ancillary groups within your home or physical business location,  I can show you how to broadcast our virtual meetings through your local television or large computer screens, enabling all of us to interact without being physically present in the same place.

To join me on this 3D virtual world adventure, you will need to open a Second Life account, download and install a compatible 3D browser and complete an orientation on how to handle your avatar in the virtual world. You can choose between a premium account or a FREE basic account. I recommend getting a Premium Account not just because you will get a free ‘home’ that is for your private use but because it is a great way to experience what it means to be part of a virtual community. Currently there are three pricing levels for Premium Accounts: $9.95 per month, $22.50 per quarter, or $72 per year.

I signed Westward Connections up to be a Second Life affiliate to defray some of the cost of publishing and online presence maintenance. I would appreciate it if you would click on the web ad in either column to join me in world. After you have enrolled and installed the software but before you log into Second Life contact me through Facebook and I will be happy to join you in world to welcome you personally and help you learn how to handle your avatar.  I look forward to showing you my Linden home and taking you to Gritaville.