When did you join SmallWorlds?
I joined SmallWorlds in July 2010.
When did you start making missions?
I actually began the groundwork on my first mission in November 2010. Then took a break over the Christmas holiday and eventually released it in January 2011.
What was your first mission?
The first mission I created was Jenna's Busy Day.
Can you tell me a little about it?
Well as a new player one thing that fascinated me about SmallWorlds was the islands. I loved the open spaces. So I purchased and decorated my first island. Then I wanted players to visit so I decided to create a mission. It was a pretty stressful experience. I tried following the forum guidelines on mission making, but it was very confusing. I didn't give up though. I kept persevering until I got the basic idea. The story tells of a friend's willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that her friend's visit is an unforgettable one.
Did anything inspire you to make missions?
Playing missions inspired me to make missions. I was intrigued by the way mission makers brought to life many issues via a mission, and wanted to also express my ideas in such a creative way.
What inspires you to keep making missions?
Teaching. I am inspired by the ability to bring health and other global issues and solutions alive in a mission. Lately I have also been inspired by the challenge of taking the next step, stepping out of my comfort zone and exploring the endless possibilities of mission making.
What are some of your favorite missions you played?
The list is endless; but I would mention a few. The Rocky Horror Picture Show - By Smeeky Star, Final Fantasy: Cry Of the Planet - By Neverquits Bray, Psycho - By Kitsune Blanca, Lest We Forget - By Jeevii Krishna,
The Munsters - By Mark Gx, The Best Gift - By Una Lunaqat, Don't Touch The Wires - By Dezertdog Chris, A Father's Life - By Chiclet Gum, Unlikely Heroes - By Sunday Monkey, 100 Days - By Caitlin Mcqueen, Daughters - By Mangoloo Lala, This is Where I Died - By Belly Tt, Adarna - By Bituin Bulanadi, The State of Things - By Alfalfa Bokchoy, The Penthouse - By Starry Nightss, Trembling Heart - By Sou Kishuku.
What’s your favorite mission you’ve made?
This is a tough one as I am so attached to many of my missions. But since I have to choose I would have to say Summer Love. It touches close to home.
Have you ever thought about quitting mission making?
Yes. Unfortunately I have many times. I felt frustrated and unappreciated as a mission maker and felt that it was a waste of my time and money to continue creating missions on SmallWorlds. In the summer of 2012 I left SmallWorlds for a while. I have to say a big thank you to Name Withheld who through his continuous support of my missions, motivated me to return and create missions again.
Many people mentioned that a lot of your missions are heartfelt. How do you invoke emotion into your missions?
Well I am always in touch with my emotional side. I put my heart and soul into whatever I do. I create missions about things that I am passionate about and use words, music and decor to tap into the emotional side of people. Music is powerful and with the perfect lighting and words from the heart it adds up to something that’s inspiring.
Where do you get your ideas for your missions?
Everywhere! As a child I wrote stories and plays. I have always been artistic. I still write to this day. I walk with a pen and pad wherever I go. I am constantly writing, imagining. I will get up at 3am and jot down a thought. There is so much around us to see if we would take a moment to notice. Even though I have created a few missions outside the realm of awareness. My true love would always be awareness missions. I know that not everyone is interested in learning, but I use my writing skills and create a storyline for all my awareness missions making them more appealing to all audiences.
Any advice for coming up with ideas for those having trouble?
Look around you. Pay attention to the cues in the room. Then write from your heart. Not everyone is going to be interested in your mission idea, but make it interesting. It's like trying to get a child to eat his veggies-
If you add some delicious ranch dressing he might be more inclined to eat it. Dress up your mission! Make it appealing!
Many people commented on your amazing space décor – how long does it take to decorate a space?
Well, it depends on the space and resources. I can decorate a small space in a few hours, once I have the tokens and gold at my disposal. Larger spaces could take a couple days.
Do you have a few tips on decorating you can give?
Here are a few things to remember when decorating. First of all decorating is an art. When I have a mission idea, I get some music going. This helps me think. I make the walls and the floors a neutral color. Then I try different colors. I could get stuck on this part for a while. Once I get the walls and floors just right, I set the lighting. I love cozy, so most of my spaces are mostly on the darker side. Then I use extra lights to help set the mood. Lastly I add the furniture. Sometimes I have to switch things around. Add and remove until it looks just perfect. I guess it's the same as an artist or sculptor going at it until that painting or sculpture is just right. Pay attention to details. Step out of your comfort zone. Try something new! If you have blue walls and red furniture add something blue to tie it in. Don't be afraid to mix and match. Take the time to make your space inviting, it adds to a great mission experience.