Dive Jobs All Around The World

We as humans are so busy with our land-based activities that we often forget that there is a fascinating dimension to our blue planet that we are mostly unaware of. A startling 71 percent of the planet is submerged in water. For some this presents a dangerous new frontier that beckons to be explored. For others, it might be a fun workplace, low on long-term commitment, but big on unique experiences. If you have the necessary skills to hold your own against whales, dolphins, jelly fish and so many more of marine wildlife, then consider this group your job board. Dive masters, marine biologists, instructors, even supportive admin personnel with a little inside knowledge about diving are welcome to browse for seasonal opportunities.

Members: 60.4k, at the time of writing. 

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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All Bugs Go to Kevin

I don't know who Kevin is. But with an estimated 30 million species and 10 quintillion (that's a lot of zeros) individuals at large, it is hardly surprising that his Facebook group for identifying insects, bugs, worms, arachnids and other creepy crawlies would be a very busy online space. Within just 24 hours' worth of posts, I endured some facetime with an RV-domiciled huntsman spider (named Charlotte), a pair of crane flies getting all romantic on someone's windshield, caterpillars sampling the new growth of spring, jumping spiders from several different corners of the globe, a rat-tailed maggot enjoying a swim in a garden bucket, a wolf spider in the wild, and a mantis charmer. And that's not even counting a rogues' gallery of critters that as yet remain unidentified. Scroll through the guides to check the frequently asked questions and comments about specific species, or even just to meet the knowledgeable resident experts through a series of Q&As. There's even a set of All Bugs Go to Kevin merchandize.

Members: 283.6k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: Creepy crawlies.

Go here to visit or join. 

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FRIENDS AND FICTION

If books give you a reason to breathe. If stories are your pleasure and your poison. If your to-be-read pile is in danger of collapse, but you want more. If you've just visited the most awesome fictional place and dined and danced with its people, and now, you're looking for someone else who's been there too. If you need a road map or maybe just some directions to your next reading adventure. Then FRIENDS AND FICTION is the virtual lounge where you will receive the warmest welcome and more treasures than you can count, because its people are your people. Friendly. Positive. Cozy. And book-centric. The fact that so many books are referenced without authors' names, and the right people still get it, speaks of the easy familiarity that exists between members.

Members: 256.2k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Let's make rag dolls!

Some are stylish, with a hint of sultry energy gleaming between the tiny stitches. Others are humbler, with yarn for hair and button eyes. There's a collection of outrageous witches regarding you with wise, yet tired eyes. At least one has outfits and accessories to spare. Another draws inspiration for her bright traditional dress from Yamaya, Orisha Goddess of the Sea. But she is not the only ambassador for cultural fashion. A personalized gift pokes fun at the trials and tribulations of the aging female body. Here and there, a cloth cat or dog. Or a blast from the past - a rag doll from long ago that represents love and distant memories. There are Viking maidens, baby dolls and even a plush and pink elephant lady. It is amazing to see how much individualization is possible with rag dolls. Many probably reflect the unique characters of their makers. 

Members: 7.1k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Roma Urbs Aeterna

For the past few weeks, the eyes of the world had been fixed on events in the Eternal City of Rome, with the burial of one pontiff and the election of his successor. In world history, the buildings, monuments and art of Rome provides a continuous thread that connects our world with ancient triumphs and tragedies. For good or ill, it forms a sturdy framework to fixtures of our modern world, even to those of us who reside far from it. Whether it's the timeless views of old bridges that bisect the Tiber, the inscribed stonework of recovered ruins or terracotta statuary now residing in museums, Rome has so many faces, so many impressions to show us. Infographics decode the mysteries of a Pompeii bathhouse or Hadrian's wall. Scenes from everyday life, depicted in painted images or inlaid mosiac humanize the people of ancient Rome. We see it reflected in opulent image from Renaissance or 18th century art. There are the backstories behind significant archaeological discoveries. Even a little factoid revealing what Gaius Julius Caesar thought of beer.

Members 91.4k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warning: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Tips & Tricks For Monstera Happiness

Did you know that a Monstera plant is supposed to be a harbinger of monetary wellness? That while residing in your home, it is supposed to be quietly, yet efficiently purifying the air you breathe?  Or that the plant was first discovered by Louis XIV's Royal Botanist? Whether you subscribe to the above-mentioned superstitions, or whether you just like to enjoy its green, leafy tranquility in your proximity, if you own a monstera, chances are you will want it to thrive. For gardening enthusiasts, this Facebook Group is a valuable resource for connecting to like-minded monster-heads, or to ask the hive mind for advice, if your delicious monster needs a boost or some tender loving care. 

Members: 527.5k, at the time of writing.

Trigger warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Mixed Media & Mixed Medium Art

A fusion of styles and inspirations. A bright and unexpected explosion of color. Found objects meeting paint and canvas. A few staves of sheet music peeking out from behind the colored folds of an imagined lady. New life growing in the heart of vintage elements. Black and white photographs. Re-purposed buttons. Art becomes so much more dynamic when it moves out of the confines of its framing. A unique energy dances across the pages when multiples blend into one. As I scroll through the creations of group members at Mixed Media & Mixed Medium Art, delight sits frequently on my shoulders, tugging at the corners of my mouth. It is easy to smile, in the presence of so much creativity. So much beauty. Visit often and stay inspired. 

Members: 19.7k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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