INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Perhaps you just walked in the door from a stressful day at school and your mom starts pestering you to clean your room. Instead of yelling at your mom or getting upset, remove yourself from the situation and give yourself a chance to calm down.  For example, you could go to your room and listen to music to help yourself relax. Avoid just walking away from your mom without saying anything because this is likely to make her angrier. Try saying something like, “Okay, I just need to put my things down first and I will come back and talk in a few minutes.” You can burn off some of your steam and negativity by writing in a daily journal. Rather than taking out your negativity on your mom, try writing down your feelings. This may help to control your attitude and will improve your relationship with your mom.  You can write down your feelings rather than say hurtful things to your mom. For example, you could write "I am so mad at my mom. She wouldn't let me hang out with my friends after school today. I think she just likes to punish me for no reason." Try burning off negative emotions through exercise. If you find that you are in a bad mood and are worried that your mom might be able to set off your temper, go for a walk or a light jog. Exercising can help you relax and will allow you control your temper.

SUMMARY: Remove yourself from the situation. Write in a journal. Exercise to let off steam.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: If possible, ban cell phone use completely during game play. Pulling out a mobile phone while another player is sparring with an angry wizard will destroy the atmosphere in the room pretty fast.  If natural light spilling in from nearby windows is distracting and/or conveys the wrong mood, cover them with blankets. Set up the game in a room that doesn’t have a lot of other things going on. An empty attic, for example, would be an excellent place to set up. Dim or turn out the lights and use candles. If you’d prefer to avoid possible fire hazards, try repositioning the room’s light sources instead. For example, you could move all the lamps into the next room and allow just a little of their light to spill into the game room.  You can get even more creative by throwing patterned and/or colored scarves over the lampshades. As the plot progresses, make sure to change up the lighting to coordinate with new scenarios and settings. Music is one option, although most contemporary music would throw off the fantasy setting completely. For a no-fuss solution, stream an internet radio station that plays classical, baroque, or Celtic music.  Using non-music sounds can greatly enhance a fantasy setting, as well. For example, you could play a CD that features nature or ocean sounds to intensify jungle or maritime settings and scenarios. Put computers on the other side of the room, out of everyone’s direct line of vision. Have the game master sit in a chair that positions them above the other players. You can also use room elements to mimic setting characteristics. For example, in anticipation of a sea scenario, you could set up a fan in the corner of the room to mimic an ocean breeze.

SUMMARY: Turn off the TV and minimize all other distractions. Change the lighting in the room. Use sound to enhance the atmosphere. Rearrange room elements to strengthen the atmosphere.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Take quality pictures of any arrangements that you make and compile them into a professional portfolio. Your portfolio can be shared with potential employers and clients. Highlight your best work and show the full range of your skills (e.g. bouquets, funeral tributes,centerpieces, wedding designs, etc.).  Organize your portfolio in sections (e.g. weddings, funerals, bridal shower, etc.). Each picture should include a description of the arrangement and the price of the arrangement. If you plan to freelance or be self-employed, it is important to market your floral design skills. Set up a website to showcase your work and promote yourself using social media.  Ask your friends or family members if they need flowers for a special event.  Give small arrangements as gifts to other people instead of buying presents. If people like your work, you will begin to get clients by word-of-mouth. If you want to work for someone else, contact the shop or store where you are interested in working.  If it is a large company that employs florists, check the website for job openings and apply online.  Many florists jobs are found by word of mouth so it is best to call the shop or visit in person. In addition to the AIFD, many states have a florist association. Visit your state's website or the AIFD website to find job opportunities.  You may need to join the association to access the job board. If you received formal education, let your teachers and former classmates know that you are looking for a job in the field. They may know of some opportunities. These websites also have a list of florists who are members of the association. You can contact these florists about employment as well. Wear business casual attire to your interview and bring your portfolio. Demonstrate your knowledge of the floral industry and flowers.  Make eye contact and communicate well during your interview because customer service skills are very important for a florist.  Business casual attire for women includes tailored shirts, sweaters, pants, skirts, and dresses that are not too tight.  Skirts and dresses should be knee length or longer.  Cleavage should not be visible. Wear conservative closed toe shoes that are black, brown, navy, or taupe. Business casual for men includes nice slacks or khakis and a long-sleeved button down shirt.  Wear leather dress shoes as well. You may or may not have to design or put together an arrangement as part of your interview.  If you do have to design, ask if you need to bring your own tools.

SUMMARY:
Prepare your portfolio. Market your skills. Contact potential employers. Join a professional association. Prepare for your interview.