Hiking Through Hipstamatic: Day 2 Ultimate Blog Challenge

Last year I embarked on a journey to lose weight and get healthy. One of the ways in which I chose to get in shape was to get back into hiking. (I live near some of the most beautiful trails in Southern California.) My goal is to keep it up and build my strength and endurance to be able to take a weekend backpacking trip.

I also love to take photographs. Since the iPhone became a viable option for fun and interesting photography, I've downloaded several camera apps. One of my challenges this year is to give each of them a serious try and let my readers know what I think. This month I chose to play with Hipstamatic.

So, yesterday I combined two of my goals and went hiking with my husband and my dog. While hiking I took several shots with one of the options on Hipstamatic (Lens: Lucifer VI, Film: Ina's 1935, no flash). Above you will see one of those photographs of my dog, Dyson. He patiently waited for me to adjust my camera and take this shot. I like the color I was able to produce in daylight without a flash. I also like the way that the photographs are already square in shape and ready for Instagram. I will continue to work with the many film, flash, and lens options available in Hipstamatic and let you know what I think.

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

Sketchbook Challenge #2 - Balance

The definition of "balance," according to the California Content Standards, is the way in which the elements in visual arts are arranged to create a feeling of equilibrium in a work of art. The three types of balance are symmetry, asymmetry, and radial.

This week's challenge is to create artwork in your sketchbook with balance. Remember to have fun while expressing yourself.

Happy Creating,
Jenni

Sketchbook Challenge Update - Repetition of Geometric Shapes

Okay, I know it has been awhile. I've been incredibly busy grading papers from my class at the University of La Verne. Who knew that I would spend so much time grading? Well I promised that I would post one of my sketchbook drawings for "Repetition of Geometric Shapes." I know it's not traditional, but you can see the repetition and the geometric shapes. Hope yours have turned out well. Stay tuned for the next challenge tomorrow.

Happy Creating,
Jenni

Sketchbook Challenge 1

Okay, it's time for the first challenge.

Theme: Repetition of Geometric Shapes

In your drawings this week, focus on repeating geometric shapes (circles, rectangles, triangles, diamonds, ovals, etc.) Try overlapping, side by side, and more. Let your imagination go! This week i will post a photo sharing site that you can share your creations with us. Until then, be creative!

Hugs,
Jenni

Fabulous Lunch in Pasadena

While out shopping for art supplies with my mom today, we stopped in to a bakery & taqueria in Pasadena, Dona Rosa. I have no idea if it is a chain, but well worth stopping in. It just happened to be "Taco Tuesday." of course I had street tacos that were to die for delicious. It is a place that I will go back again and again. Anyone in the area should give it a try.

I would love to hear about some of your favorite restaurants.

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