Well, folks, August is skedaddling out the door like a cat chasing a laser pointer, and I’m here to wrap it up with a blog post that’s equal parts cozy, chaotic, and ready for what’s next. Let’s dive into the end-of-month musings, shall we?

First off, I’ve been spending some quality time babysitting a furry overlord, Miss. Whiskers (not her real government name). Playing with a cat is the ultimate reminder that you’re never really in charge. One minute, I’m dangling a feather toy, feeling like the puppet master of fun; the next, I’m dodging a sneak attack from a fluffball who’s convinced my hand is the final boss. It’s humbling, it’s hilarious, and it’s the best kind of chaos to punctuate a busy month. Pro tip: if you ever need a break from adulting, just toss a crinkly ball across the room and watch your cat channel their inner Olympic sprinter. Instant serotonin.

Speaking of sprinting, I’m so ready for Subtember to hit TikTok and Twitch like a glitter bomb. For the uninitiated, Subtember is that magical time when creators and communities come together to hype each other up with subscriptions, follows, and all-around good vibes. I’m buzzing to get back to content creation after a bit of a summer siesta (read: I got distracted by iced coffee and beach naps). Whether it’s whipping up spicy TikToks or streaming some late-night gaming sessions on Twitch, I’m ready to crank the creativity dial to 11. Expect some epic collabs, maybe a few questionable dance moves, and a whole lot of me yelling at my cat to stop photobombing my setup. Subtember, let’s make it weird!

And can we talk about this season’s last BBQ? There’s something bittersweet about firing up the grill one final time before the leaves start falling and we all start pretending we love pumpkin spice everything. This month’s BBQ was a masterpiece—think perfectly charred burgers, a playlist that somehow transitioned from Kendrick Lamar to ABBA, and me attempting to toss a frisbee without yeeting it into the neighbor’s yard. Spoiler: I failed. But as the sun set and we all laughed over slightly burnt marshmallows, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for these moments. Summer’s last hurrah always feels like a warm hug before the cozy chaos of fall takes over.

So, here’s to August—full of cat cuddles, BBQ smoke, and the promise of Subtember shenanigans. I’m ready to leap into September with fresh ideas, a fully charged camera, and maybe a few extra treats for Mr. Whiskers (he’s earned it). What’s got you excited for the month ahead? Drop a comment, and let’s vibe into fall together!

Meow and peace out,

iivocom

When Did You Realize Fall Doesn’t Start When the School Bell Rings?

Picture this: you’re a kid, the final days of summer vacation are slipping through your fingers like sand, and the dreaded back-to-school ads start popping up on TV. New backpacks, crisp notebooks, and that one kid in the commercial who’s way too excited about geometry. For most of us, that was the unofficial death knell of summer. Fall, in our young minds, began the second we were forced to trade flip-flops for sneakers and freedom for homework.

it took me well into adulthood—embarrassingly far into adulthood—to realize that Fall doesn’t actually start when you go back to school. Mind blown.

I mean, come on. The calendar says summer stretches all the way to late September, sometimes even flirting with early October. September 21st or 22nd, to be precise, when the autumnal equinox struts in like it owns the place. But growing up, my brain was hardwired to think Fall kicked off the moment I stepped into a classroom that smelled faintly of chalk and existential dread. Winter? Same deal—another story for another blog post. But for now, let’s talk about the end of summer, that glorious season of sunscreen, popsicles, and pretending you’re going to “get in shape” before the school year starts.

So, here we are, at the real end of summer (not the fake one your elementary school principal tried to sell you). How was your summer? Did you live it up like you were starring in a coming-of-age movie, or was it more of a “I meant to go outside but Netflix had other plans” vibe?

Mine? Oh, let’s just say it was a masterpiece of mediocrity with a few dazzling highlights. I had grand plans—don’t we all? I was going to hike mountains, learn to make artisanal sourdough, and maybe even become one of those people who “summers” in a quaint coastal town. Instead, I spent most of my days mastering the art of the afternoon nap and perfecting my “I’ll do it tomorrow” mantra. My summer was lazy, unremarkable, and honestly? Kind of glorious in its simplicity.

But there were those golden moments that made it all worthwhile. Like that one perfect beach day where the sun was just right, the waves were cooperative, and I didn’t get sand in places sand should never go. Or that impromptu road trip with friends where we got lost, argued over the playlist, and ended up at a diner serving the best milkshakes known to humankind. And let’s not forget the evening I decided to “stargaze” but mostly just lay on a blanket eating chips and contemplating life while a single mosquito made me question all my life choices.

Those are the moments that stick, right? The ones that sneak up on you and remind you that summer isn’t just a season—it’s a state of mind. Even if your summer was 90% couch and 10% chaos, I bet there’s at least one memory that makes you smile.

So, as we officially wave goodbye to summer and step into the crisp, pumpkin-spice-scented arms of Fall (the real Fall, not the back-to-school imposter), let’s hear it: what made your summer unforgettable? Drop your stories in the comments—I’m dying to know if I’m the only one who spent more time “planning to be productive” than actually doing anything. And while you’re at it, tell me: when did you realize Fall doesn’t start when the school bell rings?

Introduction

A while back, just before everybody and their cat was launching a podcast, I toyed with the idea of doing one myself. I’ve always preferred listening over watching—audio streams in the past were my jam, and I still get a kick out of tuning in hands-free.

From Idea to Execution

The Excuse Catalog

“I don’t have time.”

“My audio setup looks like a science experiment.”

“What if nobody shows up?”

Sound familiar? Those same classic creator excuses were hounding me when I first flirted with the podcast world.

The Twitter Spaces Spark

Then Twitter dropped Spaces—live audio rooms where anyone could chime in. I thought: if I’m already squandering free hours on movies, shows, and games, why not channel some of that into content?

Designing “What’s On Wednesday”

Why Weekly?

I needed a goal that wouldn’t feel like running a marathon every time. A weekly slot keeps content fresh without demanding Olympic training. Plus, I budgeted in some “me time” with 42 episodes a year—because who doesn’t love a mid-season break?

Why “What’s On Wednesday”?

It nails what the show delivers: current musings on movies, shows, games, and more.

It sets the release date in stone—Wednesday can’t hide from me.

Milestone Check: 100 Episodes

Did I reach my target? Technically, I hit episode 100—give or take a few re-runs and “oops, forgot to hit record.”

What 100 episodes taught me:

Consistency trumps perfection.

Planning is my friend, not my enemy.

Even live streams benefit from a script outline.

Lessons Learned

Audio Quality: My first setup sounded like an underwater interview. Upgrades are non-negotiable.

Editing Workflow: Cutting out ums, ahs, and mid-sentence sneeze attacks is a real time-sink.

Structured Reviews: Off-the-cuff commentary is fun, but a little structure keeps listeners from drifting off.

Future Improvements

Invest in a proper microphone and pop filter.

Streamline editing with dedicated software and shortcuts.

Develop clearer segments: hot takes, deep dives, and surprise guests.

What’s Next?

This fall, I’m taking the plunge: I’ll upload “What’s On Wednesday” to your favorite podcast platforms. No more “live audio only”—it’s time to hit the big leagues (or at least YouTube).

Conclusion

From hesitant Twitter Space host to 100-episode veteran, the journey has been equal parts chaotic and rewarding. Here’s to better sound, sharper structure, and many more Wednesdays of whatever’s on my mind. Stay tuned—and bring snacks.

This is a draft to match the release of episode hundred on X Spaces. I’m coming back to a more thoughtful post later. Maybe even with some tips and ideas.

No, it’s not just a feeling—it’s been scorchingly hot here, hotter than usual, and it didn’t arrive gradually. One moment we were enjoying “pleasantly warm,” the next someone cranked the thermostat from moderate to extreme overnight.

It’s that kind of pressing, dense-air heat that makes you want to have a siesta all day until sunset.

A proper siesta isn’t just a quick nap—it’s a midday ritual born from necessity. You find the shadiest corner, flop into a hammock or sink into a cushy armchair, and let the world spin on without you. Ceiling fans hum their lazy lullaby while your brain drifts between half-awake dreams and the vague promise of an afternoon snack. Two hours later, you reemerge refreshed enough to face the late-afternoon sun—almost.

It’s also the kind of heat that turns ice cream into an accidental milkshake. You triumphantly extract a perfect scoop, admire its pristine swirl… and then watch it liquefy into a sticky puddle on your cone faster than you can say “brb, just grabbing a spoon.”

At least there’s AC somewhere—just not in my car. Remember when I said the season’s short and I’d fix it next year? That boast dates back two summers, but at least last year’s half-hearted repair allowed brief moments of cool relief. Now every drive feels like an audition for the next Fast & Furious movie: “Tokyo Drift and Fry.”

Yet some people still crave the great outdoors. Take Tomorrowland in Boom, Belgium—the mecca for electronic-music lovers. Each July, hundreds of thousands of ravers descend on the De Schorre park to dance beneath kaleidoscopic light shows and towering pyrotechnics. This year’s mainstage, nicknamed Orbyz, almost never saw a beat: mere days before kickoff it went up in flames. But organizers pulled off what felt like a festival miracle, rerouting headline DJs across its 14 other stages. Cue confetti cannons and undefeated party spirit.

So how do you beat this blistering heat? Perhaps a dip in the lake—still a tad chilly for my taste, but increasingly tempting. Or maybe you’d rather melt into the dark, air-conditioned comfort of a cinema. I last saw “Barbie” there; this summer’s marquee titles—“Jurassic World Reborn,” Marvel’s “Fantastic Five”—are begging for a viewing. The only catch? The sauna-on-wheels trek to the theater.

All things considered, I’m leaning back toward my hammock and that trusty ceiling fan. Another siesta, anyone? What’s your go-to heat-escape strategy this summer?

I swear I wasn’t going to write about the weather again—I’ve basically covered every complaint in the book. Too windy, too still, too cold, too hot, too rainy, too dry. Yet here we are, because this morning delivered that perfect warm summer rain straight out of childhood memories—the sort that makes you want to fling open the front door, stomp through puddles, and do a clumsy two-step that’s equal parts dance and face-plant.

But let’s rewind.

The Grand Plan: Summer Food

Originally, this post was destined to be a culinary tour of summer delights. Would I champion a classic Greek salad, each bite a symphony of tangy feta and juicy tomato? Or maybe dive into light Mediterranean fare—olive oil shimmering on grilled zucchini, a hint of oregano whispering across my tongue. There was even talk of spicy stir-fries and aromatic noodle bowls from the other side of the globe. And of course, the BBQ chapter: ribs dripping in smoky sauce, corn on the cob slathered in chili-lime butter.

I do tend to favor lighter dishes in the heat, but hey, I digress—because, well, summer food turned into summer weather.

When Summer Strikes…

Yesterday, summer arrived like a heavyweight champion. It was so hot that even my car’s AC gave up the ghost—apparently neglecting it for just one too many seasons is enough to earn a mocking glow on the “A/C” button. Every time I pressed it, the light flickered at me like, “You knew the risks, pal.”

Still, as the sun dipped behind the horizon, the parking lot transformed into a furnace that somehow felt pleasantly warm rather than brutal. Cruising down the highway with the windows down, I watched the sky explode in pinks and oranges. At a random exit, I pulled into McDonald’s for a midnight feast—because nothing says “high-class summer” like a Filet-O-Fish at 11:45 PM. Cradling that greasy bag under the blush of dusk, I thought: life, you’re pretty sweet.

Full Circle: Back to That Rain

And now here I am this morning, soaked (in spirit if not style), reminiscing about dancing in puddles and chasing my dog—who looked thoroughly offended that I dragged him into this nostalgic rain ballet. My sneakers squished with every step, and I might have unintentionally scared a neighbor’s cat (sorry, Mrs. Jensen!).

In the end, maybe weather and food are just two sides of the same summer coin: one minute you’re plotting kale salads and mango smoothies, the next you’re belly-flopping into memories the size of backyard sprinklers.

So, tell me—what’s your summer anthem? A crisp bite of tzatziki-drenched cucumber, or the splish-splash symphony of a friendly rainstorm?

Let’s keep this Sunday rolling. Next week: maybe I’ll finally tackle that summer food recipes post …unless, of course, the weather don’t allow it.

Almost Summer Chill & Such

Among the few certainties in life is the fact that people will always complain about the weather.

Then summer hit us like a wall, you know how I might have complained about previously it’s been cold

This 21c-25c might not sound like a lot to some of you, but when you jump from 13c, clouds and cold win to sun, humidity, and a warm breeze it sure feels like it.

Makes you appreciate air conditions, or the natural chill of a basement

Speaking of natural cooling, we took another day at the lake, and no I didn’t go in the water this time either in case you read about the last escapade with the alpha warriors, but this time they didn’t stay in as long either.

I’m curious what is your idea of a good summer weather chill? Picnic in the city park? Reading under a a tree? Dip in the lake or something completely different? Maybe an escape in to the dark chilled cinema?

Let me know on Facebook, Bluesky, or X/twitter

Article will be updated between June 9th - 16th

Check out www.twitch.tv/iivocom for game play VODs and live streams

The Steam Next Fest June Edition is here or “NextFest Summer Edition” as I like to call it, it’s the last spur of gaming before my lazy summer month kick in, so let’s dig in and see what gems we can find.

Day 1

Dispatch

How does superheroes know where to to go? And what do they do if they are unfit for field duty?

Day 2

A little bit of a hiccup as my stream got slapped with a copyright claim for one of the audio on one of the demos, I should have known to mute an unfinished product. Anyway I might do a second stream just so I have a day 2 to show for.

Day 3

Brew

3d platformer comes to mind in this semi-open world fantasy rpg / rougelike / action game. I had fun with the first part even if I struggled a little. 

Master The Tower’s trials as an Alchemy Academy student in this action-packed roguelite. Brew potions for combat boosts, wield diverse weapons, and overcome fierce foes to pass your exams!

Paradigm Island

A fascinating game that blends click and point adventure with dice based mechanics without it being intrusive. 

Play as a mercenary grappling with an identity crisis in a surreal, crumbling world. Shape your fate through choice while navigating shifting loyalties, hidden agendas, and unsettling truths.

Day 4

I usually play old or retro games on Thursdays so with that in mind I digged in the pile of indie demos for just that. 

Mythy 1990

A true homage to yesteryears adventure games, interface, graphics, humour and all

Son of Art

A puzzle game that teaches you about art

First and foremost rip to my parents, you are missed and still in many hearts 💕 To tacle this process I wrote a somewhat humors recount of the experience with the a little help of AI.

Keep reading

There’s a promise in the air—a whisper of summer. The weather report suggests that next week might just deliver a beautiful, summer-like week. But as with every forecast, only time (and perhaps the fickleness of nature) will tell if the promise holds true.

## Digital Generational Wars on TikTok

If you’ve spent a minute or two scrolling through TikTok or any short video platform, you’ve probably noticed the playful tension between generations. The older generation loves to rib the young for being soft, for lacking the hardy spirit of days gone by. It’s an amusing digital tug-of-war that reminds me of how each generation invents its own version of toughness—with a healthy dose of humor on both sides.

## Childhood Memories: Lakeside Adventures

I remember my childhood vividly—at least the parts that survive the selective edits of memory. As soon as the snow started melting up north, that was our cue to head for the river or the lake. One sunny day, when the kids asked me to drive them to the lake at the very first glimpse of sun, I couldn’t help but smirk. “Sure,” I thought, “This will be a short trip, nothing like my daring exploits in the wild outdoors.”

## Testing the Waters—Literally!

My confident assumption was quickly put to the test the moment I dared to stick my toe into the water. The chilly shock hit me immediately: “There’s no way!” I recalled thinking. Yet, as if to defy my caution, the kids began marching into the lake with the determination of adventurers on a quest. I continued to mutter under my breath, “Really, there’s no way…”

And yet—20 minutes later—they emerged from the lake, having braved water that was probably close to 42°F (8°C). Despite the icy plunge, they were grinning from ear to ear, their faces aglow with the thrill of the unexpected. In a delightful twist of irony, I then drove them back, sweating under the full blast of the car’s heat, as if nature itself were playing a joke on our expectations.

## Weekend Weather: A Bit of Summer in the Air

For now, the weekend weather seems to be living up to its promise. There’s a certain charm in these unpredictable moments—a reminder that life, much like our digital lives and childhood adventures, is full of surprises that both challenge and delight us. After all, isn’t this mix of sweet nostalgia and modern banter exactly what makes summer memories so enduring?

As Mark Twain once hinted in his misadventures, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” And isn’t that the very spirit we’re chasing this summer?

May Musings: A Bridge of Memories, Culture, and Seasons

Here we are again, at the start of May—a month that sneaks up on us like a mischievous cat knocking things off the table. It arrives with the warmth of spring, an existential crisis about the speed of time, and a few good excuses to celebrate.

Keep reading