Busy Week: Episode Two Podcast

I have created my second podcast! I want to thank all of those people who subscribed this week. I love receiving an email that says I have a new subscriber. It brings a smile to my face. This week I was overwhelmed with projects that did not involve yarn. I spent a great deal of time prepping and teaching a GATE workshop (Painting With Picasso) to third through eighth graders. It was a lot of fun seeing the students create superhero paintings in the cubist style of Picasso. When I wasn't working on the workshop I was busy sewing and creating medium sized project bags and DPN holder project cases. I was able to get some of these posted for sale in my Etsy shop last Friday. Here is a sample:

I would love for you to grab a cup of coffee (or any beverage) and join me for my latest podcast.

As promised, I'm including my show notes here.

Episode Two: 1/25/16 Show Notes

Ravelry: Everything Jenni group
Instagram: everything_jenni
Facebook: Everything Jenni Page
Etsy Shop: Everything Jenni
Website: www.everythingjenni.com

Works In Progress (WIPs)

Coziest Memories Blanket (Junkyarn)

• UPDATE: ordered yarn from XrayAnn on Etsy (set of 8 hand-dyed mini skeins in the autumn sampler color way)
• Are any of you working on this project? If so, please share on Everything Jenni Ravelry group page for the WIPs thread. Tell us if you are you using the same weight of yarn or the same pattern? What size needles are you using? How many squares have you decided to do? We love to see what you are working on.

Whispering Pines Shawl

• Yarn: Manos del Uruguay Alegria
• Colorway: Antigua
• Needles: US 6  or 4.00mm
• Pattern: Whispering Pines (Molly Klatt of A Homespun House)
• Notes: I just started, but using this yarn I can see that I will not see the snowflakes well, but the pine cones and trees will be awesome.

Hiker Socks

• Notes: I’m making the men’s size medium, so I cast on 60 stitches. I’m still working on these, but did not make much progress this week.

Sewing Projects

• Medium size project bags and DPN Holder Project Cases available in my Etsy shop now
• UPDATE: I have been busy stitching away on my sewing projects. I hope to have Valentine project bags available by the end of the week. I’m also in the development stages of a few surprise projects.

Finished Objects (FOs)

Christmas Eve Socks (Little Bobbins Knits)

• Yarn: Madelinetosh Sock
• Colorway: Clematis
• Needles: Karbonz Circular – Size 1
• Pattern: Vanilla Latte Socks by Virginia Rose-Jeanes
• Notes: I used the “eye of partridge” heel flap and the rounded wedge toe.

Casting On This Week

Rustling Leaves Beret from Coastal Knits

• Yarn: Woolfolk Tynd
• Colorway: Color No. 3
• Needles: Size 2 and 3 circular 16"
• Pattern: Rustling Leaves Beret (book: Coastal Knits)

New Yarn Purchases

• Yarn/Colorway:  The Lemonade Shop in Harvest Moon
• Yarn/Colorway:  Paca Peds in Mermaids go Walking

Patterns I Would Like to Try

• Pattern/Designer: Cruiser/Cailyn Meyer (dailyskein.wordpress.com)

Art

• Artwork Behind Me
• Artist: Christopher Burgan
• Title: Hanging Onto Time
• Medium: Oil Paint on canvas
• Subject: Early 1900’s era everyday tasks by everyday people
• Website: http://www.chrisburgan.com (artwork coming soon)

Love Notes Postcard Project #lovenotesjb

• www.jenniferbelthoff.com

Recipe

• Recipe:  Loaded Chicken and Potatoes from Tip Hero on FB
• Notes:  Recipe calls for hot sauce, but I used my own seasoning mixture and a white gravy. I omitted the bacon.

Thank you for stopping by. I hope you join me for my next podcast.

Hugs,

Jenni

"Find Your Happy Place"

I have several projects in the works, but I recently finished this painting. It all started as a sketch. I wasn't sure that it would even become a finished painting. Then last week I was looking through my sketches, and I decided to give it a chance to become something more. This time I would take on the painting with gouache on watercolor paper. It took me awhile for the color palette to come to me. I wanted something that conveyed a place you might be happy. I know for myself that my trailer is my escape and it makes me incredibly happy. So the above image is my final painting. Prints, cards, and postcards will soon be available on my website (www.everythingjenni.com). I'm also trying to incorporate the trailer in a necklace. My hope is that when you see this little trailer you think of your happy place.

Hugs,
Jenni

Love Notes Postcard Project

I have been so inspired lately to create new art pieces. Generally, I am spending at least part of my day wrapped up in music and painting. I couldn't be happier.

Although I don't need to add anything to my plate, I have done just that. A dear woman across the continent, Jennifer Belthoff, hosts a "Love Notes Postcard Project" every few months. It is this amazing postcard swap where you are paired up with a partner anywhere in the world. The idea is that you are given a prompt each week. You send your partner a postcard with your response to the prompt. I have participated twice before with less than stellar results. However, this time around I have been moved to create original postcards to send to my "love note partner." I think there is something completely moving about sharing your personal thoughts, and in my case my art, with a complete stranger. It has been downright invigorating for me. Let me share my process with you.

Here is how I create a postcard for this beautiful person:

• On Sunday, I receive my prompt. I begin thinking about what it is that I want to say in my writing.
• By Monday, I begin sketching ideas of how I can express my words through imagery.
• On Tuesday, I begin painting my words, and this process usually takes a few days to allow for drying times.
• Either Thursday or Friday, depending on the drying process, I add my writing to the back of my postcard and send it off to my partner.
• Then I spend my weekend waiting in anticipation for my partner to post that she has received my postcard. It is incredibly difficult to create an original piece of art and then just send it through the mail with no special packaging to protect it. You are never sure how it will arrive. Will it be as beautiful as you remember? Will the post office have stamped over your image? There are so many variables involved that you can't possible worry about them. You slide the postcard into that mail slot and pray that the recipient receives it just as you intended.
• By the end of the project, it is my hope to have gained a new friend. I think this time I have been lucky enough to be blessed with a truly beautiful person who shares her own thoughts with me as well.

This week I encourage you to pick up a postcard that speaks to you and send it to an unsuspecting person in your life. I guarantee that the surprise will bring a smile to their face and possibly start a trend of sending happy thoughts to those you care about. Be sure to let me know if you decide to take on this challenge and bring unexpected smiles to beautiful people in your life.

Hugs,
Jenni

Jumping in With Both Feet

It has been awhile since I painted on a canvas. Recently, I decided to test out one of my whimsical girls on a canvas. Sometimes I find that I have to throw caution to the wind and dive in. If I sit and ponder all of the things that could go wrong then I would never start. So this past week, I dove head first into painting on a canvas. It took some getting used to, but I'm loving where it is headed. I look at her sweet face and I think about how she is lost in her thoughts. We are getting a glimpse into her soul when we look at those eyes. She lets the chilly wind blow through her hair while she walks through the enchanted forest. She seems to be inviting us in to hear her tale. That tale will continue as I work through this painting. Watch for updates to see where she leads me.

Hugs,
Jenni

Loving the Process

With the new year, I have been actively painting and creating. I am absolutely loving the process. When I am not busy camping or helping family I get up, have a cup of coffee, and sit down to paint. I spend my morning watching the sun cross the sky and creating new sketches or painting my drawings. It is a meditative process and I have found that I have grown as a person through this time. I focus on what matters most to me while I let the rest of the world just melt away. It has been truly healing. I'm currently working on a new girl. She is lovely and I just know that you are going to love her. Keep an eye out for an update of when she is going to be available.

Hugs,
Jenni

"Little Red Valentine" Painting

Do you remember the story of "Little Red Riding Hood?" I always loved how she trots off through the forest to see her grandmother. Well my "Little Red Valentine" is not off to see grandmother, but she is off to deliver Valentines. I have finished my sweetheart. She is so precious. I love her. My cards are printed and now available for sale. I will be selling one card with an envelope for $2.00, but I'm also putting together a package of six cards with envelopes for $9.00. If you are interested, please send me an email at jcburgan@gmail.com to work out the details.

I hope y'all love her as much as I do. She brings a smile to my face and makes me thinking of the smiles she will bring to others.

Hugs,
Jenni

Little Red Valentine Sneak Peek

The sneak peek that I promised is here. I have been working on my new Valentine image. Much like my "Winter Wonderland" painting, the style is whimsical. I will have the entire painting done tomorrow. It has been fun creating this beautiful little girl. I am planning to create Valentine's Day cards and small prints this year. If you are interested in ordering a print or a set of cards, please let me know. Once I have finished the painting I will be posting the items for sale in my Etsy shop. Have I held you in suspense long enough? Here is my "Little Red Valentine" sneak peek.

I hope you enjoy this work in progress. She has so much of my heart in her. I love her beautiful blue eyes. I think you are going to love the completed painting.

Hugs,
Jenni

A New Year is Approaching

I am so excited to start this new year. I have enrolled in several art classes to motivate me to create even more art work. I am working on my 2015 Valentine's Day card and hope to give you a sneak peek soon. As the new year approaches, I am looking forward to setting up my webpage and my Etsy shop. I turn 40 this coming February and it is going to be a big year for me. I am hoping to fill my life with all things art. It is one of the things that makes me most happy.

As we approach the new year, what are your goals? I'd love to hear from you. Maybe we can work together to encourage each other in attaining our goals this year.

Hugs,
Jenni

Artful Monday Musings... Disneyland

During a recent trip to Disneyland I took a serious look at the beauty of the art work. Whether it be paintings or architecture, Disneyland is overflowing with works of art. I remember being a little girl in awe of the ride, "It's a Small World." Every time I visit I'm sure to head over and take a trip down memory lane. Every ride is full of art that inspires you to picture yourself in the fairytale. It's no wonder children fall in love with Disneyland. Next time you take a trip somewhere be sure to look for the artistic side of things.

Hugs,
Jenni

Sketchbook Inspiration

After spending some time in my sketchbook today, I came up with an idea for prints and a notecard set. This is a preview. I'll be finishing a set this week and posting in my Etsy shop. I'll keep you posted.

Hugs,
Jenni

Artful Monday Musings... Simple Color Wheel

I taught a GATE painting workshop today for middle school students. I introduced them to the color wheel and we created our own simple color wheel. The exciting part was that each student drew an image to create their color wheel. We only discussed primary and secondary colors, but I think everyone had fun. I look forward to teaching them monochromatic painting on Wednesday.

Hugs,
Jenni

Artful Monday Musings... Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Today we celebrate Pierre-Auguste Renoir. He was a brilliant Impressionist painter. I highly recommend checking out his body of work.

"An innovative artist, Pierre-Auguste Renoir was born on February 25, 1841, in Limoges, France. He started out as an apprentice to a porcelain painter and studied drawing in his free time. After years as a struggling painter, Renoir helped launch an artistic movement called Impressionism in 1870s. He eventually became one of the most highly regarded artists of his time." (www.biography.com)

Hugs,
Jenni

Taking on a New Challenge

Welcome to Everything Jenni for 2013!

I decided to start out the year by taking on a serious challenge. I've joined the "Ultimate Blog Challenge." Basically, it means that I will be posting a blog a day for the month of January. I will post links to my blog on my Facebook and Twitter accounts. If you get tired of reading my blog posts, then feel free to ignore me, but my hope is that I will be able to share a little bit about myself that keeps you interested and anxious for more.

So grab that toasty beverage, sit back, relax, and enjoy the reading adventure!

Hugs,
Jenni

ATC Swap at Artists in Blogland

I recently participated in an ATC swap. For those that don't know, ATC means Artists Trading Cards. These are cards that measure 2 1/2 x 3 1/2, and you create original art work on each card. Then you send them to people around the world, while people send them to you. This particular swap was hosted at Artists in Blogland.

While I have not participated in an ATC swap before, I also have not created any artists trading cards. I struggled with whether I wanted to create a theme among my cards or if I just wanted variety. After a lot of thought I finally settled on a theme for four of my six cards and then found a different idea for my other two cards. The first four cards were to represent the seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. My second two cards were to represent a bride and groom. Here is how my cards turned out.

It was exciting to visit my post office box every few days in the hopes of receiving ATCs. In the last few weeks I received four cards. They are absolutely beautiful and created by talented artists from around the world. Thank you Michelle Mathey and Monika Paha for my exceptional cards. Take a look at their work here:

This was such an exhilarating experience. I would definitely participate again and recommend that you participate in a swap. It's a rewarding feeling. Thank you Marcia at Artists in Blogland for doing such a wonderful job with the ATC Swap.

Jenni

Sketchbook Challenge

I've decided to host a Sketchbook Challenge. The way it will work is that I will provide you with a theme and guidelines every few weeks for you to work on in a sketchbook. The sketchbook can be any type that you choose.

Let's start with the guidelines for your first two pages if you have purchased a sketchbook, or your front and back cover if you created your own from my tutorial.

• Page 1 / Front Cover:  Create a design that incorporates your name.
• Page 2 / Back Cover:  Create a thumbnail self-portrait in a style of your choosing. The portrait should be about 2" x 3" in size. Remember it does not need to be realistic. After you have done this, write a brief biography about yourself, including your favorite mediums, influences, and what you would like to learn this year.

As you complete this portion of the Sketchbook Challenge, share your progress with us. Remember that all art is beautiful and we are here to encourage fellow artists.

Jenni 

How to Make Your Own Sketchbook

To join in my Sketchbook Challenge you will need a sketchbook. If you would like to purchase one or you already have one that is wonderful, but for those with limited funds I've created a brief video tutorial showing you how to create your own sketchbook with a few simple tools.

Back to Art

My cousin, Melanie, had to have surgery to remove her thyroid this week. While waiting with her husband for her to come out of surgery I decided to get back to some artwork. I thought rather than spend $6.00 or more for a throw away get well card I'd make one.

Paper: Watercolor Paper - Cold Press
Medium: Watercolor Pencils, Micron Black Pen

It has started a whole new creative process. Check back for updates on a new Artist Trading Card Swap I'm involved in this month.

Hugs,
Jenni

Angels Baseball Quilt

Recently I made this Angels baseball quilt for a friend's baby shower. I started out with a pattern and then when I started to cut my materials I changed my mind on the pattern. I ended up creating my own design and just went for it. It was welcomed with joy and I'm told the theme of the baby's room changed to an Angels baseball theme after receiving this gift. So happy I could bring a smile and joy to the happy new family.

Hugs,
Jenni

Knit Nite

As many of you know, my dad passed away in July of last year. After his passing I struggled with my creativity. I felt like I didn't want to be creative or enjoy the process of creating. Luckily that time has passed and I find myself creating again.

Recently I decided to start attending Knit Nite at my LYS (the Purlside). After several weeks of Thursday nights with fellow knitters and crocheters, I am happy to announce that I am feeling more and more like myself again. I find that I truly enjoy sharing stories, patterns and projects with like-minded people. I find myself looking forward to Thursday nights. I'm drawn to the stories of others. Often I find that I'm drawn to projects that my fellow Thursday nighters are working on. I am constantly in awe of those that diligently stick to the large and labor intensive projects. Sharing moments with others about my constant need to not become bored with my projects for fear of giving up is just as enjoyable.

I think that my emotions will always be up and down when I think of my dad. However, I feel that I now have a place to share with others in one of my passions. For all of you that knit or crochet, I would encourage to find a group of people to share this experience with. You won't be disappointed.

Hugs,
Jenni

Looking for Inspiration...

Have you ever had one of those funky weeks where you feel unmotivated and lack the confidence to be creative? I find that when I'm overworked or stressed this can happen to me. I've been experiencing this more frequently since dad passed last July. It can be easy to hide from others, but you know that you just don't feel like yourself. In one of my "funky moments" I decided I needed some inspiration. A trip to my local Barnes and Noble was in order.

I love taking a break from whatever is happening in life to make a trip to the bookstore. It seems to calm me to walk in and be surrounded by inspired words that people pour themselves into. Generally I shop for books on my Nook, but I always enjoy the feel of an actual book in my hands. Yesterday I found myself gravitating to the magazines. I found several magazines to leaf through for inspiration. After spending an afternoon with an icy beverage and these inspiring magazines I feel that I am rejuvenated. There are several art processes that I am now dying to try. Of course I had to ask Christopher if he could show me a few things. I can't wait to work on something and share it with you here soon.

Hugs,
Jenni