Jenn Greenleaf's Blog

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

When the kids are sick, they take a lot of pleasure in relaxing activities. Since Sunday, we’ve been battling the following:

• My oldest son: H1N1
• My stepdaughter: really-really bad cold
• My youngest son: pink eye, and a really-really bad cold

Even though they’ve all felt lousy, and have had to stay in bed all week, they’ve taken pleasure in reading, watching movies, SLEEPING, and working on art projects. They worked on “scratch art,” making small books, fabric art, and sticker art.

They’re feeling so much better today, but still not well enough to hit the bricks yet. They’re working on making clothes for their little bears using pieces of felt and rubber bands. They’re so creative! Their bears look like a cross between ninjas and characters from Robin Hood.

Do your children enjoy working on art projects when they’re not feeling well?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

There’s no school today, so it’s just the boys and I home while my stepdaughter spends the day with her mother and my husband works. The boys are going to work on art projects, including making birthday cards for their grandmother who lives in Florida.

They LOVE making these types of cards because it gives them the opportunity to use a wide variety of media, make a mess, and create something special.

Some of the materials on the drawing board:

• Cardstock (of course)
• Markers, crayons, colored pencils, glitter gel pens (they like to mix them all up)
• Stickers
• Stencils
• Decorative punches
• Magazine cutouts (they better not cut up my good ones!)
• Paint samples (those strips from the home improvement center)

I’m sure they’ll dig more things out as the projects progress. This is just some of their “off the top of their head” ideas for creation. I’m going to take pictures throughout the process, and share them with the family. Creative moments like these are worth spreading!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Starting January 1st, I’m going to challenge myself to work on or create a piece of art everyday for as long as I can. I want art to be part of my everyday routine again, so why not start the New Year with this type of challenge?

I’m not talking about the creation of a large-scale piece on a daily basis. I have to accept the fact that there will be days I can only add a single element to a piece, or snap a picture to use in a future piece. If I keep this challenge realistic, I’ll be able to achieve the goal that much easier.

I’m thinking about picking up a new art journal specifically for this challenge. I have a couple of large ones, but the page count and the page sizes tend to intimidate me when used for challenges. If I pick up something a bit smaller (not a Moleskin, either, because I don’t want to mess those up for some reason…I know, I’m weird….), I think I’ll work in it more consistently.

Are you challenging yourself to an art a day challenge, or something similar in order to bring a creative habit you want back into your life?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Now, I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a sea monkey kit referred to as a scientific art project before . . . nor have I heard of a crystal garden referred to as such either, for that matter. My children have a unique way of looking at things like these, though, and we encourage that type of creative thought.

These are the projects occurring in our little kitchen this morning. My stepdaughter received a sea monkey kit from her grandmother on her last birthday, and my sons received crystal gardens as Christmas gifts from their grandmother last year. So, they all decided today is the day for theses scientific art projects. This is the type of “art” my husband can get into, so he worked with them throughout the process.

Now, they’re all cleaning the yard. I love how they can switch gears like that so quickly. ::smiles::

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I need some glitter. Last night, we had our first snowfall that actually stuck. We’ve had a couple of other small storms, but they quickly changed to rain so none of the white fluff stuck around. We woke up to snow covered everything this morning, though, and it inspired me!

Each time it snows – and stays – I’m inspired to work on paintings with glitter encrusted everything. I want to paint trees highlighted with bits of white that are covered with glitter. I love how these paintings turn out . . . when I have the glitter, that is.

Why is it that, whenever I don’t have anything planned for glitter, there’s an abundance of it in my workspace? Where does it all go when inspiration hits? It’s a mystery. I’m going to try to carve some creative time out during the course of this weekend to start a painting, and buy some glitter!

What are your creative plans for this weekend?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Everyday after school when snack time is finished, my three little ones gather around the kitchen table to read for 15 minutes and then write about their day in their journals. Then, they roll out with their homework assignments from school.

We’ve asked them to write in journals because neat penmanship is a struggle sometimes for some or all of them. Adding creative twists to their writing has been helpful in the past, and it looks like it may be worth revisiting.

Here are some ideas:

• Drawing a picture first in a separate sketchbook, and then writing in their journals with the picture (or pictures) at their side.
• Creating a comic book style journal, rather than all text.
• Using magazine clippings or other pieces of ephemera to create art journal page spreads with enough empty space to still add text about their day.

My children love to write, but sometimes they want to rush through the process so they can hurry up and get to whatever is next. By adding a creative writing spin on this daily routine, it helps them slow down and enjoy the experience. There are some children who look at writing as a chore. Maybe adding these creative twists will help them, too!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Honestly, I wish art could somehow be incorporated into my children’s daily classroom routines. They’re SO inspired by the moments of creativity their art teacher brings to their lives once per week. I love how they embrace what she teaches them, and often carry it throughout the week until they meet with her again.

The latest project: using plastic canvas and yarn. I remember doing this when I was younger with my mother’s scrap pieces of canvas. She used to make everything from tissue box covers to Christmas ornaments. To this day, I still don’t understand why she never viewed herself as an artist. Anyway, my youngest son brought this project home with his yesterday.

When I saw his work, I was immediately transported to my own learning of this craft. He seems to like it as much as I did, so I’m going to head out and get some supplies for them to work with. My oldest son is still working on the weaving projects he’s been learning using his cardboard loom, which is fantastic.

I can’t wait to see what other projects come through the door with them!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Back “in the day,” I used to participate in a lot of different challenges. Some were to work in a paper writing journal everyday for a year, some were to work on altered books everyday for a week, some were to work on a different type of art each day for a month. Here are some links to where you can find art a day challenges:

• November is Art Everyday Month!
• A Piece of Art a Day Challenge
• An Art a Day Challenge
• ArtSoMoFo Challenge
• Weekly Art Challenge

If I wasn’t participating in this year’s NaNoWriMo challenge, I’d be working on the “November is Art Everyday Month” challenge, hands down. I don’t have time for both challenges, so I might make January my “art everyday” month.

Setting personal artistic goals and challenges are fun, but I always seem to do better when I’m working alongside my peers. We’ll see what happens!

Are you participating in any art challenges right now? Are there any art challenges you know about that I haven’t listed here?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Every year, we have at least one or two pumpkins for each of our children lining the edges of our deck’s stairway. They’re usually carved, but we’ve never liked how quickly they rot no matter how many preventative measures we take to avoid this from happening fast. So, this year, I thought I would teach my children some mixed-media techniques when decorating our pumpkins this year rather than carving them.

The problem?

It’s Tuesday, and Halloween is Saturday…and I keep forgetting to buy the pumpkins! Usually, I buy them too early…this year, it’s completely out of my mind each time I enter the store – even when I have it on my list! What’s wrong with me?! So, today, when I pick up the laundry detergent I keep forgetting to buy, I’m going to grab three pumpkins!!!!

Are you decorating and/or carving pumpkins this year?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve always been a huge fan of sketching, but it never really occurred to me to sketch my ideas and plans out for writing projects until a writing-friend of mine (Christina Katz) posted that she does on this on a social networking site we both use. Why didn’t this ever occur to me before?

Ever since, I’ve been sketching out plans and ideas for my manuscripts, the NaNoWriMo challenge, and articles. It’s been so much fun to let my sharpie work its magic on an oversized sketchpad. What does this have to do with mixed media art, you wonder? Good question! Because I am the way I am, I can’t just leave a sketch alone. I have to add things:

• Newspaper clippings
• Articles from magazines
• Clip art
• Website printouts
• Pamphlets
• Portions of brochures
• Newsletter clippings
• Post-it notes

In other words: any materials necessary to proceed with or inspire the research process for these projects. It isn’t long before these pages become weighty, much like an art journal or altered book page. This inspires the creative process even further for this little mixed media artist, so I’m prompted to add more.

Do you have a special way of getting your ideas out on to paper?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

As a feature writer, I’m required to complete a certain amount of articles per month in order to maintain my status. The last thing I want to happen is to have to step down, but I’ve been so stumped lately. The same thing has been happening for my Maine Education topic at Examiner.com . . . what is wrong with me? Usually, I have so many ideas I can’t keep up with them all.

Typically, I keep a notebook going of all my ideas and drafts. This notebook has remained still far too long. Time to get back into the swing of things. I don’t want to step down from either writing position, so I need to get busy. The decision will ultimately lie with the powers that be, so my fingers will remain crossed (makes it hard to type, but I’m ambitious!) that things will remain as they are.

To help things along, I’ve gotten out an over-sized sketchpad to sketch out all my ideas and works in progress:

• I’ve been working on character sketches for my NaNoWriMo challenge project on templates, as well as in my sketchpad.
• I’ve been working on ideas for tutorials and lesson plans in my sketchpad.
• I’ve been working on my outline, as well as research notes, in my sketchpad for a cookbook I’m writing, as well as for a book about learning how to say no.

This has been an excellent exercise and an excellent tool. Why didn’t I start this sooner than today? I have no idea, but I’m glad I did! Hopefully this tool will help keep me on task with all of the various writing projects I have on the block – and, it’ll help keep me on track with my goal to be “creative” beyond the written word on a weekly basis!

How do you keep your creative juices flowing with either art or writing projects (or both!)?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m so frustrated with myself . . . . I’ve been SO excited about my son’s interest in weaving on his cardboard looms, yet I keep forgetting to pick him up some yarn. I’ve been to the store THREE times since he’s asked me to get him some, and I keep forgetting to get it . . . what is wrong with me?!

I have a good excuse today, though. I had to pick him up from school today because he has what appears to be the flu. The first thing he said when we rolled out of the school parking lot was, “thank you for picking me up, Mommy. Did you get me some yarn when you did groceries? I’d really like to weave until I feel better.”

::sighs::

Yep, that would’ve been a great thing for him to do while saddled to the couch with fluids and medicine. Yep, that would’ve been a great thing for him to do in between napping and reading. BUT NO, Mommy had to drop that ball again. He’s a forgiving little person and said, “it’s okay, Mommy, I know you were trying to hurry up so you could come and get me.” He’s such a sweet little guy.

I blogged about how he's feeling on my personal writing blog here: Yep, It's a Monday.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Friday, my oldest son came home from school absolutely thrilled:

1. He baked oatmeal chocolate chip cookies with his class, and was able to bring some home.
2. He learned how to use looms made from cardboard with yarn.

He brought home three looms his art teacher let him borrow, along with some extra yarn she let him have. He’s been looming all weekend, and asked for more yarn last night. He loves those things!

I didn’t know this was taught in art class, and of course I’m dreaming up ways to mix it up! I’m going to teach all the kids how to use these goodies, as well as make our own because he’s going to have to return them eventually. My thoughts:

• Adding beads
• Adding charms
• Weaving in other fibers
• Adding costume jewelry
• Adding buttons

So, it looks like we have yet another rainy day project to work on (or snowy day – that’s right around the corner in these parts). We’re coming up on another trip up to camp, too, and this will be prefect to work on during inclement weather! I’m so excited!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

When we brought the kids up to camp last weekend, I drew! I drew a picture of an old barn, and the surrounding environment…including the trees I enjoy drawing so much for some odd reason. I used nothing but the colored pencils my children use to draw with (Crayola, Rose Art).

My plan is to paste it into my art journal (the paper I used is slightly smaller than the pages in my art journal), and then create a bit of a collage around the border. I saved some score cards from games we played while were there, as well as other paper elements (like receipts, etc.) that will work well in this effort.

I need to draw more. There’s no way around this. Not only do I find it completely enjoyable to partake in this activity with my children, but it’s also a very soothing practice when I’m on my own (despite that not happening often). I used to spend hours drawing when I was younger. I can remember being in my late teens, sitting in my Papasan chair in my first apartment getting lost in my sketchbook. I miss spending that kind of time, and I know I can do it again – I have to MAKE the time.

Do you get lost in your sketchbooks?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I was just talking about writers retreats in my other blog, and it (of course) spurred thought of artists retreats. To be honest, I’ve never known anyone to go on a retreat just to work on their art. This sounds like something I would love to do sometime in the future, though. Can you imagine it . . . going someplace JUST to embrace creativity? The thought is a wonderful one, and one I hope will come to fruition someday.

What would I work on? Good question!

Here are my thoughts:

• Art journaling about whatever is on my mind, as well as what I’m experiencing (of course)
• Altered book work focused on a particular project I’ve wanted to finish for quite some time
• Landscape paintings and drawings of what I see, as well as what my imagination cooks up
• Mixed media paintings using found objects, and objects gathered from the environment surrounding me.

As you can see, my mind is already full of ideas and that’s just the cusp of what I would explore. I would also want to learn new techniques, as well as strengthen my existing skills if that was possible through workshops and classes. I think it would be a wonderful experience!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My husband and I are up in Embden, Maine with the kids again this weekend. We’re trying to travel up here once per month to reconnect with the kids, and take a break from the stresses of life. It’s such a wonderfully addicting experience and, thanks to my husband’s sister and her husband, we’re able to indulge in this often. We’re SO thankful!

While here, the kids and I love hunting around for things out in the yard and in the woods that can be later used in art projects. We’ve found the typical pine cones, pretty leaves, acorns, and things like that. In addition, we’ve found some wonderful pieces of birch, as well as some interesting pieces of bark. We found mushrooms, too, which will be photographed and incorporated into pieces of art once we return home.

We’re going to do some bark, stone, and other texture rubbings in our art journals as well. That way, we can use them as backgrounds or in other ways for our mixed media work. The kids are so inspired whenever we walk through the woods – they always ask for plastic bags, pieces of paper, and crayons before we leave so not a moment is missed out on.

I plan to write tutorials for my topic here outlining our various artistic adventures and experiences. Whatever doesn’t work well in article form will be found on this blog. I’m looking forward to sharing this with all of you! And, yes, there will be pictures included with the articles. I can’t figure out why pictures won’t load to the blog, so I’ll be sharing some on my personal blog as well.

Stay tuned!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Yesterday was magazine day in this little household of ours. My boys decided to make some booklets by folding standard sized paper in half and stapling them together. Then, they gathered a bunch of my old magazines, as well as old magazines they brought home from their classrooms, to create their own magazines from.

The entire kitchen table was covered with glue sticks, booklets, magazine cutouts, scraps, scissors, and pencils. It was great! I regret that I didn’t take pictures of this creative moment, but I know I’ll have the opportunity after school today when the break all of these materials out again. This time, they’re going to include my stepdaughter and encourage her to create her own magazine! It’s so much fun!

My boys plan to give these magazines to their grandmother when she travels up from Florida in a week. They’re excited to share these creations that were made just for her. My oldest included recipes and pictures of the cuisines he thought she might enjoy cooking or baking for the rest of the family she spends time with back in Florida. He’s such a thoughtful little guy.

It amazes me what these kids come up with on their own!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I have a stash of art supplies I keep whenever I find clearances, and other “must have” treasures at the dollar store (or wherever else). I add to this stash throughout the year, and sometimes I forget it exists. Whenever that happens, it’s like I’ve found something new again and the inspiration flows like magic!

I recently found a package of flat foam pumpkins, cloth sunflowers, and flat foam harvest shapes when digging through said stash. Yay! The kids and I are going to make some pieces of art using these things. We’re going to mix it up by:

• Adhering them to pieces of construction paper
• Drawing pictures around the shapes
• Embellishing them with magazine cut-out’s
• Dressing them up further with glitter glue

I’m thinking this will be a week-long project if I play my cards right. Considering the rainy weather in the forecast, including today, that’s perfect! While the kids are in school today, I’m going to hunt for some stickers and other goodies in my workspace (which, as of right now, looks like a craft store exploded in there . . . I really need to address that situation fast).

Do you keep a craft supply stash?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m always looking for new opportunities, but I’m the worst critic when it comes to my work.

• You’ll never sell that.
• There’s nothing special about your work.
• Why do you bother?
• That’s the most ugly thing I’ve ever seen.
• It won’t make sense to anyone.
• There’s no market for that.
• You’re clearly an amateur.
• Yeah, I’m pretty hard on myself.

I just finished writing a review for Jessica’s book over on my “writing” blog, and it lead me to wanting to (needing to?) further explore these thoughts here on my art blog.

What if I really COULD be a career artist? Why is this such a stretch?

I’ve been working as a writer, my other passion, for a decade . . . it’s a career I thought I’d never embark upon, never mind succeed at. However, I did and I have. I think I can do this with art, as well, so long as I put the same effort and aggression into the pursuit. (and patience – any creative careerist needs a lot of patience)

Here is a link to Jessica’s website, along with information about her book. Even if you’re not a fantasy artist, I highly recommend picking up this book and adding it to your arsenal of resources.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I know I just wrote about this, but I’ve been inspired to write further. I was just sitting here folding laundry while looking out my window and, ideas started springing to mind. I’m looking at the mixes of reds, greens, yellows, and oranges right outside my window while thinking, “I should take pictures of these trees and use some of the leaves from these trees in the art piece.”

I love it when ideas spring out of nowhere like these have. Here I am, innocently folding laundry while daydreaming out my window, and it just hits me. There’s that motivation I was talking about in yesterday’s blog post. I’ve been struck with so much inspiration and ideas that the motivation to make them come to fruition is just a camera click and leaf pick away. How great is that?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve been blogging a lot on my “writing” blog about photography and imagery lately. Okay, only a few times – but a lot compared to how much I normally write about pictures! ::smiles::

This brought about some new inspiration for me this morning. When I was an active member of Nervousness.org “back in the day” many-many moons ago (I started there in 2003, and dropped off the radar when the main site shut down), I participated in a lot of mail art exchanges where photography was the theme.

I want to dabble in this again, only with a new twist. Rather than using other people’s photography or pictures that are “random,” I want to take pictures specifically to use in my mixed media pieces. I’m thinking about using them in:

• Art journaling
• Altered books
• Greeting cards
• Mixed media paintings

I’d use them in collages, but I think the duds would work best in that (for my own personal tastes, that is). I’m going to start off by taking pictures of things I see everyday – the trees in my front yard, my coffee cup, corner of the couch I curl up in, my favorite spot on the deck, and things like that. This is going to be fun!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Thinking About Art: Motivation vs. Inspiration
• Discovering Creativity: Finding Motivation
• How to Sustain Your Creativity: A New Approach for Artists

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I haven’t forgotten about this blog, I promise! I feel like I’ve been neglecting this poor little blog lately, and to some degree there’s a bit of truth there. It isn’t intentional, though, I promise! I’ve been working on some pretty exciting projects.

During the course of this month, I decided to work on fiction once again. I’ve been writing about it on my other blog, Jenny Greenleaf: Maine Writer & Artist, but I neglected to do so here for one reason or another. I’ve had the “fiction-itch” since 1996-1997, but I was always deterred from looking at it from a career perspective because it wasn’t a “money maker.”

This was bad advice, I know now, and I wish it hadn’t taken me over a decade to come to this realization. Believe me, I’m not walking into this as a get rich scheme. That’s very far from the truth. I’m walking into this wanting to be the writer I started out to be. Don’t get me wrong, non-fiction will always be my bread and butter because the pursuit of knowledge will always exist within me. Fiction/Novel writing will be in the mix now, too, though . . . no longer pushed aside because someone else’s agenda didn’t quite match up.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

It’s strange. I’ve been on the go all day long, but it doesn’t feel like I’ve gotten much accomplished at all. I have no idea exactly WHY it feels that way . . . it just does.

My stepdaughter’s mother’s birthday (and my nephew’s father’s birthday, now that I think of it) is this coming Friday (yep, September 11th – oy), so she’s been making clay creations for her ever since she came home from school – SO cute! I love it when the kids want to make art projects to give as gifts without any prompting to do so whatsoever.

My youngest son made some clay creations for her, too, which was very thoughtful. After dinner, I’m sure there will be more arts and craftiness – if not tonight, tomorrow night. Her mother picks her up for the weekend Friday, and I think that’s when all these creative gifts will be bestowed upon her. I can tell the kids are excited about that!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

It’s funny how such simple things can bring such happiness to our family. Surrounded by a society where there’s never “enough” given to children, or done for children, or appreciated by children – I think we’re pretty lucky to be raising children who can embrace simple pleasures. Don’t get me wrong, they’re sucked up by consumerism along with the norm, but they have healthy attitudes when hearing the word, “no.” (most of the time, anyway)

So today, we’re gong to play with clay when the kids come home from school! They’ll be home in about 45 minutes, so I’m trying to tend to all my “must do’s” before they arrive. They’ve always loved playing with playdough, so using modeling clay (they’re grammy sent it to them this past weekend) is an exciting opportunity. We’re not planning “what” to make, we’re just planning to make “things.” Those are the best laid out plans in these circumstances!!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Lesson Plan About Art Journals
• Lesson Plan About the Alphabet

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Rather than sitting around eating, reading magazines, and channel surfing during today’s lunch hour, I’m going to work in my art journal! I collected some bits of ephemera while staying in the hospital with my husband, so that is going to be the focused materials used today. I’m also going to start some drafts for fall paintings I’d like to complete before snow flies.

I’m going to begin drafting the lesson plans I’ve been speaking of today, too. I started writing some for another website I work for, and it’s been an extremely gratifying experience. Not only are these lesson plans great for the after school activities I enjoy working on with my children, but it’s also providing me with a stable to work from when next summer rolls around. I can just print and go whenever our schedules permit! I love that!

I’m stumped for educational ideas related to Labor Day, though. That’s the editorial focus for another website I’m working for, and I’m running short on ideas for some reason. I’ll have to do some research for topic ideas to fill my well. The Internet comes to my rescue once again! Do you have any plans for this Labor Day weekend? We’re planning to spend ours at camp this year!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Last night, my husband and my nephew ran to Lowe’s to pick up some things for one of my husband’s jobs right before our three little ones went to sleep. After I tucked them in, I settled in with a magazine and chick flicks. They didn’t return from the little excursion until around 9:30pmish or so . . . meaning I had one and a half hours to myself . . . and, for some reason, working in my art journal never occurred to me.

What’s wrong with me?

I complain all the time about wishing for a free and uninterrupted moment, one where I can work on something for ME without feelings of guilt or like I’m going to be pulled off the project at any moment. This opportunity presented itself last night. Whoops, missed that opportunity for creativity!! I could make a thousand excuses as to why, but I won’t. I’ll just leave it to the fact that my muse must’ve called it a night early, too!!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I can’t help wondering what this new school year will bring. We have one going into second grade, two going into third grade, and one starting his Junior year in high school. What sort of challenges will each child face? How much more homework will the experience in comparison to previous years? Will they experience excitement or dread about these changes?

I’m a firm believer in children reacting to new experiences based on their peers, as well as adult influences. So, I’ve been trying hard to keep the positive encouragement and excitement flowing for them. It’s been difficult at times, though, because some of the kids have been away a lot this summer. I’m doing the best I can, though, and that’s what matters.

School bags are packed, and tonight they’ll choose what they’re going to wear on their first day of school. I remember the first day of school from year to year and feeling extremely nervous. Part of that was because all I ever heard from my mother was how badly she was tormented in school and how much she hated going. I was so scared that these things would happen to me! See what I mean about the power of adult influences?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

This has been a very strange summer, to say the very least. Typically, this household is busy with art projects, reading programs, practice work, writing letters, and journals. This year, for some odd reason, that didn’t happen hardly at all. The kids still worked on some art projects, but hardly any in comparison to previous summers. It’s so weird!

We still participated in the summer reading programs, too, but not quite as aggressively as we usually do. Usually, the kids read at least one hour per day. This year, though, they just read enough to satisfy the requirements of each summer reading program they participated in. It’s so weird!

The kids still wrote letters, but it only happened twice. I have no idea why! Typically, the kids write letters each week during the summer. It’s so weird!

So, I guess the thing I have to realize is there’s no more “typically” when it comes to how things go around here. There’s no more “usually,” either. I’m not complaining, so don’t get me wrong. Even though we experienced record rainfall (21 inches, or something like that, compared to the usual 8 or so inches), the kids still seemed to have had a decent summer, and that’s what matters the most.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve been making note about the creation of mixed media art lesson plans for the classroom for quite some time, and now that the new school year is upon us, it’s time to start putting these plans into action. Over the course of the school year, I have plans to write and present at least one lesson plan per week. Some of these lesson plans will contain pictures of the creative process I work through with my own children, while others will not (because some of these plans I’ve already worked through with my children and did not take pictures of the process).

In either case, these lesson plans will be straight forward enough for you to print and take with you. Some teachers have sent me notes about how they like printing and reproducing the pieces I’ve written to hand out to their class. So, I’ll be striving to create very easy to understand instructions using materials that should already be on hand. And, if these materials are not on hand, they should be inexpensive enough for students to bring to class with them with the help of their parents or guardians.

If there is a particular lesson plan you would like to present to your classroom or use in your homeschooling programs, feel free to send me a message or write a comment on this blog post. I’m all ears and would love to hear your suggestions! Until then, the first of the series of lesson plans will be rolling out the first week of September. I may bulk up and present a number of them to get the ball rolling, and then slowly taper off as each semester progresses. We’ll see what happens!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

We’re all living in the same society where people are losing their homes, prices for everything are skyrocketing, and lay-off’s or shut-down’s are occurring on a near weekly basis. Through all of this, we all continue to work hard to keep our ends met and to prevent these realities from hitting us . . . if they haven’t already.

How often, though, do you truly reward yourself? Seriously, we’re all working our tails off and just keeping afloat (unless you’re insanely rich) and doesn’t it make sense that rewards should come down the pipeline. I don’t mean expensive gifts or splurging on trips. I’m talking about the little things that put a smile on your face . . . a hot bubble bath, a massage, buying your favorite magazine or book, picking up a new tool, and so on.

I’m guilty of hardly ever rewarding myself. For some reason, I constantly try to reward those who surround me with this, that, or the other thing because I love seeing the smile on my face. For a long time, I believed that was my reward. While that is a gratifying experience and I wouldn’t give it up in a minute, I am giving myself up in a way. I need to reward myself, give myself that same kind of praise, and give myself that same smile on my face. It’s a contagious thing, this happiness and gratefulness . . . ::smiles:: . . . So, my dear readers, I promise you that I’ve promised myself that I won’t ignore these situations anymore (or at least I’ll promise to try!)

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Have you ever noticed that, when one thing goes horribly wrong in your life . . . there are sure to be several other things following in line waiting to make things that much worse? That’s what it has been like in our household since July 13th . . . at 2:39am, to be exact. Though there have been some up’s (I landed a new writing gig), there have been more downs than I would ever wish on my worst enemy.

I’ve been working on trying to make everything right again and, believe me, it hasn’t been easy . . . it’s as though I’m reliving each and every situation from the past 30+ days over again. I’m not going to go into detail because I don’t want to bore you with all of that. I will say, however, that these problems have touched my personal, professional, and education life . . . so, there are a lot of holes to patch here, there, and everywhere. It’s exhausting, but it has to be done in order to get some sort of semblance of order back into our lives.

Some things are falling into place rather quickly, while other things are a fight. I don’t know why it has to be so difficult, but at the same time, I understand where everyone is coming from. My problems shouldn’t be theirs, nor do I expect them to be. I can’t expect everyone to be flexible and understanding just because I’m going through some particular trials and tribulations. That’s just par for the course, right? I’m rambling, time to end this blog entry.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My boys and I are home today while I work, and they play.

However, I do have plans for another day of creative exploration. I told them their grandmother in Florida could use some “happy mail,” and that we were going to do that today. Of course, my oldest asked when we were going to go get the Happy Meal . . . so, I had to correct that immediately. Anyway, the boys and I are going to work on some letter writing, stories, and pictures so she can have some happy mail. ::smiles::

I’m also going to write an illustrated letter to someone I love exchanging mail with, but we’ve both fallen out of the routine. I want it to become habit because, as we both know, it is really good for us to take that time (a nice, creative break) at least once per week to write to each other. So, I’m starting my letter today. Hopefully I’ll finish and be able to send it off today!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Yesterday, I worked at the library (I know, I keep talking about this – anyway . . . ) and, when I returned home, the table was COVERED! What was it covered with, you ask?

ART SUPPLIES!

I love that, even when I’m not around to encourage them or inspire them, they’re still working through their own creative moments. Yesterday, it looked like they were working on a lot of drawings using markers and crayons. There were bits of cut paper, too, but I don’t know what that was all about.

When I see these creations that occur when I’m not around, I wait for the kids to talk to me about their work. I try not to probe with too many questions because sometimes their work is “private” . . . even though it is left out for the whole world to see. It’s an interesting situation, but one I try my best to respect.

When you leave for work (or wherever you may need to go while your kids stay behind), do you come home to find the creative process has occurred while you were gone? Do your children share this work with you, or keep it to themselves?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I worked from the library today, and it was sensory overload in terms of the thousands of inspirational books found here. There’s a large section on the “reference” floor, as well as in the children’s section. I love how there’s a healthy mix of how-to books, and books about artists, architecture, art history, art movements, types of art, and so on. It’s art frenzy!! I could have sat there all day just enjoying the assortment and variety of books. However, work commitments and responsibilities prevented me from doing so. That’s okay, though, because I’m sensing an artist’s date focusing solely on these books is on the horizon.

When was the last time you visited the library just to enjoy the books, and not to do specific research or work related tasks? Do your visits to the library focus on enjoyment and pleasure reading or research? Or, do you find yourself visiting the library just to work or perform research for school or work?

I’m at the library A LOT each week. I’m here with my children, I’m here to work, I’m here to do school work, and I’m here to research. Usually, I’m quite busy and the opportunity to sift through the stacks for fun just doesn’t present itself very often. I have my date book with me most of the time I’m here . . . so, I should just schedule in an artist date for book enjoyment while I’m here!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I worked at the library today and, much to my chagrin, I had a lot of math homework to complete. Because today was so busy, the opportunity to be creative was nil. However, when I really took a hard look at the math I had to complete this afternoon, the work is very much like art. Here’s why:

• I had to create charts and graphs for my statistics project.
• Matrices require linear thought similar to work created by artists like Escher.,
• I had to do a lot of plotting and graphing.

I believe this is the last math course I’m required to take for my degree program, so I may as well try to enjoy it while it lasts. I’ve always envied those who enjoy math all the time, and wished I was one of them . . . then, must maybe, it wouldn’t be such a struggle to understand!

Was math a challenge for you? Did you try to put your math work under a “creative” light?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• A snack tray: these snack trays are the kids that have two compartments on one side, and one large compartment on the other.
• Small round compartment: this holds all their scissors, glue sticks, pencils, and other “straight up and down” materials they like to use.
• Small compartment: this holds small items like rubber stamps, notepads, small packages of stickers, pencils sharpeners, boxes of crayons, and things like that.
• Large compartment: this is for larger sketch pads, pieces of construction paper, notebooks, stencils, and other larger items they like to use.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Drawing pictures have encapsulated my boys’ free time for the past week for one reason or another. They have these little snack trays that we’ve employed as mini-art desks when purchased, and it isn’t uncommon to see them dragging these out throughout the day. Sometimes they work on projects while watching TV, and other times they just keep them “handy” to use when taking a break from playing.

Yesterday, their work was dedicated to their grandmother in Florida. They don’t have the opportunity to see her nearly as often as they would like, and they miss her very much. Bridging the gap between visits with art and letters will certainly help. They’re hoping, of course, this will coax her to visit sooner. There’s always an ulterior motive when it comes to little people and their grandparents, right?

They have plans for more art for “Grammy” today, too, which will be a nice surprise for her.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m in the process of setting up goals for my Suite101.com topic: Mixed Media Arts. I’ve published 218 articles and, by the end of August, I’d like to have 300 published. That would mean that, between now and then, I’ll have to write about 3 articles per day until the end of the month.

Is this possible?

I think it is considering how many ideas I’ve been mapping out since April. I have the time, I have the ambition, and I have the inspiration. There are a lot of things that could potentially get in the way, but it’s up to me not to let them. I control my writing schedule, right? It’s time for me to start enforcing that. I have a number of other writing gigs I’ve set similar goals for and, once school starts for my little people, it’ll be a lot easier and less stressful to roll these goals out.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

For those of you who have been following me on this blog, or my other one, you know I have a serious addiction to office supplies (fetish, love . . . whatever you want to call it). While running 1,000’s of various and sundry errands yesterday, I picked school supplies up for all four kids – high school stuff (lots of notebooks, binders, paper, writing instruments, etc.) for my nephew, and elementary appropriate things for my three little ones (who, oddly enough, aren’t so little anymore . . . ::weeps::).

There was a battle, and I won! There was a strong, nearly over-powering, urge to buy cases of notebooks and filler paper. There was an overwhelming need for goodies like fancy paperclips, neat looking pens, decorative folders, and notebooks of all different sizes that I KNOW I could’ve found many uses for. I was in the aisles, walking ever so slowly, fighting with myself over if I should or should not pick these items up or not . . .

Needless to day, I walked out of the store having purchased only what was on my list. I was shocked. I was amazed. The urge was fought, and the battle was won! Last year (and the several years before), I caved in and regretted it later. This year, I have to be smarter with our funds for a number of reasons . . . and I’m so proud of myself for not letting the urge to feed my fetish take over! (It brought back memories of trying to figure out how I could buy out all the paper my neighbors had for sale at their garage sales while I was growing up.)

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

As much as I’d love to have creative moments sprinkled into my daily routine, that’s just not realistic. There’s too much going on around me that I have control over, that I don’t have control over, and that just swoops in when I least expect it to happen. As a result, finding creative moments on a monthly basis is more in tune with how life is rolling around here.

This will change, though, once school starts. Then, creative moments will be able to happen as soon as my children come home from school everyday. We jump right into homework assignments after a snack is enjoyed, and then we work on something creative. This can range from anything to a simple drawing for their grandparents, or something more extensive. It all depends on what else is happening that day.

So today, the only creative time I had was filling out what seemed like an endless stack of paperwork. It was huge. On the plus side, though, it’s finished!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My youngest is art journaling now, and I can’t even begin to express how that makes me feel. He was so moved and inspired by the trees we worked on in my art journal the other day, that he asked me if he could have an art journal of his own to work in.

Of course!!!! I put together a kit for him:

• Small sketchbook
• Zipper pouch slightly larger than the sketchbook
• Zipper pouch for short colored pencils
• Zipper pouch for crayons
• Set of mechanical pencils
• Crayon sharpener

The zipper pouches all came together in a set, so I was immediately inspired to use that as the home for his kit. He loves that the pouches are “see-through” and that he can carry everything together easily when we run errands or when he visits my husband’s mother. It’s a perfect little kit for my little guy. The best part for me is, when my other two children ask for a similar kit, it was extremely cheap ($5.00) to put the whole thing together thanks to back to school sales!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Creative moments are, well, very creative here. My oldest went to work with my husband this morning (my little guy is SO excited), and my other two (well, my youngest son and my stepdaughter, that is) are working on some creative adventures. They’re in the process of making balloon snakes using their “blower uppers” so they can create balloon animals using the books we have as guides.

“Balloon animals are art, Mommy,” said my son when he explained me that this was going to be used as their arts and crafts time today. He’s going to figure out how to glue sequins on as eyes, embellish them with string, and then make them part of a larger “sculptural” work. I love the imaginations of the little people in my life! It inspires me so much to watch them work, discover, and create.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

So, the kids have turned my kitchen table into an art desk today. There’s bins filled with Popsicle sticks, crayons, glitter glue, colored pencils, funny shaped erasers, construction paper, and other various supplies covering the entire surface they’re not using as their “personal art areas.” I love how they’ve improvised, and found a way to make the creative moments they crave work!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Use a corner punch
• Stamp a floral image on the front of each card
• Stamp the wedding cake image on the interior of the card
• Add wedding themed stickers to the front and interior of the card
• Color in the wedding cake image on the interior of the card
• Add a floral image to the envelope’s flap
• Use glitter gel pen for all the text

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Notebooks
• Composition books
• Random papers
• Documents
• Binders
• Schoolbooks
• Files
• Receipts
• Pieces of mail (in-coming and out-going)
• Office supplies
• Library book
• Notes
• Journals
• Worksheets for the kids
• Research materials

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My boys and my stepdaughter each have a grandmother who lives too far away for visits. My boys’ grandmother lives in Florida, and my stepdaughter’s grandmother lives in Washington. (Yes, they each have another grandmother each living in Maine, but these others are equally as important and they want to maintain close relationships despite the distance.)

Phone calls can’t happen as often as the children would like, either, because it gets costly. So, starting today, we’re working on illustrated letters. All three of the kids love writing and they love drawing, so they’re very excited about combining these two passions for their grandmothers. They also love receiving mail, too, so this entire experience is very rewarding for them. It’ll also help keep their skills intact in preparation for the upcoming school year (as suggested by their teachers last year).

As much as they’d love to see their grandmothers, this will be a good way to keep the connection alive until that can happen again. We’re planning on at least one letter per week, but knowing these kids as well as I do, I know it’ll happen much more than that. And, of course, I’ll be there to encourage them (and help them spell words) all along the way!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

It’s been a LONG time since I’ve blogged on here and, in my absence; there has been a change to my blog and my Mixed Media Arts topic here on Suite101.com. Do you notice the difference?

I got married!

So, my last name is no longer Hollowell. I’m now Jenn Greenleaf, and wearing that name so proudly! I love this last name for a variety of reasons, including the fact that trees have been a focal point of various art pieces of mine over the past two decades or so. This is why:

To me, trees are a symbol of strength and endurance. So, having a last name that carries a piece of what has already been a strong symbol in my life for so long – it’s green leaf – seems so right and so natural. It interests me how trees (surrounding my art work, surrounding my home, and now tied to my name) have been that ever-present “pillar” in my life.

So, here I am with a fresh start (getting back on track again) with a new name! Stay tuned for new content on my topic, as well as pictures of art work on my other blog (I still can’t figure out how to upload pictures to this blog yet, but when I do you all will know!)

What changes have come about in your life recently?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My brain won’t work now. This is frustrating because, earlier today, I was cranking right along with all of my school assignments. I’m caught up on everything, and ahead on a couple of classes. That’s a great feeling, true, but it’s a not so great feeling when I sit down to work on other things . . . and my brain won’t work.

Fear not! I shall not be defeated! (How was that for a super-freelance writer slogan?) There are ka-zillions of writers out there currently attending college while managing their careers, so I know this is far from impossible. There are just some things about my life that need a little tweaking in order to make this work. I need to make sure I’m:

• getting enough sleep at night (I’m getting better at this)
• eating well during the day (no skipping meals or filling myself with empty calories)
• exercising regularly (I’ve been good at this lately, but prior to that . . not so much)
• asking for help when needed (I’m bad at this)
• taking time for ME weekly (I’m getting better at this – I know it’ll prevent burning out)

It all looks easy enough, right? So, why is it so hard to stick to these things? Is it because my “inner Jenn” knows it’s what’s good for me and I’m rebelling against myself? (bad inner Jenn!) Or, is it because I’ve developed some very bad habits that are going to take some work to kick? (sounds reasonable . . and true) It’s worth the effort, though!!

Do you face similar challenges?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m thinking about compiling another set of art journal page to self-publish through LuLu.com again, but I’m not sure…my inner critic is screaming in my ear to just leave things alone and keep the pages where they are. However, there’s another side (the one that is coaxed out by those who actually support and encourage me) that thinks this is a good idea. See the quandary?

Here are links to the others I’ve published what seems like a lifetime ago:

• Explorations: January’s Art Journal
• Explorations: March’s Art Journal

The original plan was to published journal pages during each month of the year . . . but, alas, life got in the way of creating the pages and the project never fully came to fruition. I have a stockpile of pages that I’ve created since then, so I may be able to carry the original concept out, only in a different way (volumes, rather than months). I’ll have to see how this goes, though.

I’ve also thought of creating a picture/how-to book containing sets of articles (arranged by topic similar to how things are categorized in my column) and step-by-step pictures to publish through LuLu.com, too, once the rights revert back to me. That might be beneficial to those who are looking for lesson plans, as well as those who keep saying they want pictures. (Sorry guys – I try to upload, and it won’t work!!)

Thoughts? Ideas? Suggestions??

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

A friend of mine from Boston (she and I went to high school together, and then she moved down there for college – and stayed!) came up this weekend, and we were able to connect again after nearly nine years! We’ve kept in touch through email, phone, and social networking over the years – but it just isn’t the same as spending *actual* time together again. It was great!

She was also friends with my sister, and we talked a bit about my sister’s many talents. Though she doesn’t view herself as such, she’s the most talented artist and musician I know. I have always loved listening to her play the various instruments she seemed to pick up without any effort (flute, piccolo, clarinet, bassoon, and piano), and I always loved it when she showed me her artistic creations.

While the art she and I create are very different from one another, it has always interested me that we both loved the same creative pursuit. She “retired” a few years back, but I wish she’d pick it back up again. My friend and I were talking about how wildly talented this woman is – if I had half of her talent, I’m sure I’d be in a much different place right now (although, I’m a bit partial to the place I am now…but that’s another story for another day).

I wonder if she’ll ever create art or play her instruments again?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Call for submissions: Share your journals, share your stories

We're putting together a 1001 Journals book proposal to shop around to publishers, and need your input. To get the publishers excited, we'd like to share some remarkable journal entries, and stories that go along with them. If you'd like us to consider including your journal / entries / story in the proposal, please email us the following:

• Your Username
• The journal number
• Your city, state, and country
• A brief description of the entries, and why they're amazing (make sure they've been added to the 1001J site, where we can review them)
• If there's a story, please include it with as much detail as you can

The deadline is June 9th.

Email submissions to someguy@1001journals.com

Don't have anything to submit? You've got time, create something unique and interesting. This is your chance to get published. Not on 1001journals.com? Sign up and start sharing journals.

Journal Contributions could range from amazing art or writing to controversial entries, humor, raw emotion, confessions, interaction between contributors, conflicts, rants, oddities, and so on.

Journal Stories might be something interesting that happened with the journal, or in your life involving the journal. Was the journal left in a library? Taken on spring break? Was it used as a marriage proposal? Perhaps you discovered it for sale in a thrift store, or shared it with reformed convicts. Let us know.

Thanks, and keep on journaling,

someguy

www.1001journals.com

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I know, I know. I was going to work on art this weekend once I was finished (i.e. sick of) working on the yard sale stuff in my basement. I didn’t. Instead, I planted container gardens. It’s such a relaxing experience that I wish I could afford to buy and plant new things every single day of the week. I’ve been in love with container gardening, as I’ve been mentioning frequently this past week or two, since 1998. So, it’s no wonder it won out over creating some art this weekend.

HOWEVER!! I plan to create an art journal about my container gardens. I love both, so why not? Right? I’m thinking of creating the art journal myself, using paper I create from various things from here and there around our home. I’m thinking of adding bits of nature to the pulp, as well as any wrappers or information spikes that come with the seedlings I purchase. Won’t that be fun! I’m excited about this because the kids and I have wanted to make paper for quite some time now (I have the screen, I just need to box it in a frame). I’m going to encourage them to make books, as well.

This week my classes open up (I’m attending college through the University of Maryland’s distance learning program) tomorrow, so it looks like I’ll be adding some more weight to my already busy schedule. I’m not worried about this because, no matter what life throws at me, I seem to be able to manage my time fairly well. I’m thinking that, since these are summer courses, I’ll be able to work outside (with my gardens no less!), and be able to bring my children to the park while I have my studies in tow. Considering they’re all becoming more independent, the need to push them on the swing or make sure they’re not eating something gross from the ground is now non-existent, I can bring work and school work pretty much wherever we go!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

This has been a heavy week, but that’s okay. It’s all part of the whole “working mother” gig. There are days when I feel like I have nothing more than housework and running errands to do, while there are other days where I feel like I’m juggling too many balls. Sounds pretty normal, right? Don’t worry, I’m not complaining!

All four of the kids are headed off in other directions today – my boys are going with their dad, my stepdaughter is going with her mother, and my nephew is going with his grandparents. Tomorrow and Sunday, my fiancé is going to be all over the place (helping his mother, working on a garage, and going to a car show) . . . so, guess what that means! Once I sift through the piles of “yard sale miscellany” in my basement, I have some time to myself! Amazing concept . . .

I’m still craving art journal, altered book, and visual letter writing time . . . so, maybe that’s how I’ll start and end each day. My first instinct is to blow off the basement duties, but I really do need to get that stuff in order (and priced) because we’re having a “benefit” yard sale at the end of the month to raise funds for upcoming “things” we both expected and didn’t expect to come down the pipeline. Lots going on, that’s for sure!

What are your plans for this weekend?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I speak all the time about taking a day for me, but things always seem to come up that pulls me away from that decision. Even on days where I’m “supposed” to be spending time taking care of (or even “celebrating”) me . . . like on my birthday or Mother’s Day, for example, I end up doing other things that have nothing to do with what I have planned in this little head of mine.

I know that’s part of life, and I know that’s part of having a large family. However, what’s bothering me the most, is that this rarely happens to others in my household who have the same desire. When they want to “do what they want” on a given day, that’s what they do . . . and nothing seems to get in the way of that plan. Why doesn’t this work as well for me?

It’s mainly because I haven’t embraced the “power of NO.” I will take on more than I can handle, bite off more than I can chew, and handle things that should be taken care of by others . . . mainly because I want to make things easier on people in my life. Why do I do this? I find myself consumed with guilt when I want to spend the day working on art, despite the fact that others in my life are working on their hobbies when they have time . . . I find myself consumed with guilt if I want to organize my art space, rather than running errands or tending to the needs of others.

I need to work on this, because it’s just ridiculous to feel this way all the time. There’s no need for it, and it has to stop. So, I will be taking a day for me, it will happen before my classes start up again, and I won’t feel guilty about this decision . . . until I do, of course. ::winks::

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Arts and crafts projects: my oldest son has a “dinosaur project” he’s been wanting to do, which is perfect for outdoors. It’s also that time again to write some letters, and draw some pictures for family we don’t see very often.
• Nature collections: every year we pick leaves and other items from nature to press in my giant gardening books. We use them later on once they’re “flat” for art projects (greeting cards, collages, paintings, art book projects, and so on).
• Reading: the kids LOVE it when I read to them, so I thought it would be perfect to read to them while we’re outside. What a nice and relaxing way to spend the afternoon!
• BBQ! We’re having family over for a barbeque for dinner, and the kids love helping prepare for that. I’m going to ask them what they’d like to help me prepare for dessert. I have a number of choices to set out for them to decide from.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My lists notebook is nearly full, and I don’t know why I think this is a monumental thing. Could it be because it is the first time I’ve ever filled one without moving on to another? Could be. Could it be because this list notebook contains the various “going’s on’s” that have happened for work, home, and homeschool since September? Could be. Could it be because I can’t wait to pick out another one? Maybe.

I think it’s a mix of all of the above. I love notebooks, as if many of you haven’t already been able to guess. This notebook was a bit different than the others I typically pick out because the pages are a larger landscape, and there are pockets on the covers . . . yet, it’s not one of those rigid “5-Star” type notebooks the usually feature those benefits. (This one has swirlies, polka-dots, flowers, and other girlie things I like. Hehe)

It looks like I’ll be finishing this notebook off by the end of next month. This is such random thing to write about for a blog post, I know. As I mentioned in the summary line of this blog post, though, it’s just how I roll! How to does this relate to the creative, artsy side of me? The fact that I can doodle, or keep things super-duper neat . . . the fact that I can play with all sorts of different types of pens . . . the fact that I can paste in, staple, paper clip, and attach miscellaneous bits of what-not to these pages . . . there are different ways to find creative escape even in the most useful of daily tools.

Do you keep a “list notebook” as way to keep yourself organized?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m going through this overwhelming urge to write a letter – has this ever happened to you? Typically, I like to write letters every week (at least once or twice depending on what my schedule allows for). However, it seems like forever since I’ve written any letters. I know it couldn’t possibly be THAT long, but it feels like it has been.

I’m going to take some time this week to write some illustrated letters. I love writing these – they are filled with doodles, quotations, words of affirmation, and, of course, my thoughts. I want to include little envelopes filled with mini-letters and other bits of fun’ness that is perfect for that sized envelope. I have templates, so I don’t know why I don’t do this more often.

I want to work on some unsent letters, as well, for my art journal pages as well. I find these to be very helpful when attempting to work through stressful situations. I have several topics and recipients in mind, so I may wait until after the family has gone to bed or when I’m alone on the weekend to work on these. That decision is still up in the air. I like to take random words and passages from them to incorporate into altered book projects, and mixed media paintings . . . so I’m hoping this “release” will help inspire some more creative pursuits.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My step-daughter asked me this question this morning (she saw a picture of one on a package of multi-purpose printer paper sitting on my desk), and I realized . . . I can’t remember how to do this! The simplest of art projects, make a paper hat, has completely left my brain despite the fact that this was one of my favorite things to do (aside from paper airplanes, of course) when I was her age. Isn’t it funny how things that seem tried and true and never forgotten are, in fact, eventually forgotten?

It made me wonder what other “things” in the art world have slipped my mind?? I used to work with origami quite a bit when I was younger, and in to my teen years . . . however, I can’t remember how to do any of that without the help of my oldest son’s books now! What about weaving? I used to do a lot of paper and yarn (yes, sometimes together!) weaving when I was very young . . . now, I can’t even remember how to set up a cardboard loom! What is wrong with me???

So, it looks like I need to get back to my “roots” with my children. The last day of school is June 17^th, and like last year and the year before, we’re going to be working through a summer learning program. I’m thinking the arts and crafts portion of this program should include some “blast from the past” projects. I may even dig out my Spiro-graph!! I love that thing. I was looking at it the other day when I was gathering things up for a benefit yard sale and I of course thought, “This will never be part of ANY yard sale!

Are there art projects, even basis ones, that you used to create years ago and have since forgotten how to complete?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

It was pouring – let me rephrase – POURING this morning when the kids loaded on to their bus. It’s one of those mornings where sitting on the couch under a heap of blankets with a steaming cup of tea would be a slice of Heaven . . . then, out of nowhere, the sun pops out for about ten minutes. This is, of course, shadowed by more clouds and rain just as you’re about to hope the cushions outside will dry enough to move there to work.

I understand that it’s a woman’s right to change her mind (or however that cliché goes), but Mother Nature is being all too fickle right now. My case in point – the sun has shown itself and then quickly vanished again three times since the start of this blog post. The clouds must be traveling much faster than usual, because this is not a typical annoyance.

Why am I writing about this?

I guess I’m trying to distract myself from the other stressful annoyances that have been occupying my mind the past two days. Guess what? It worked! The entire time I was writing about this weird sun, rain, sun, rain thing . . . I didn’t think about those troubles at all. So, I’m guessing that if I find other “odd” ways to distract myself today . . . I won’t think about these things at all!

One can only hope.

[Edited to add: the sun is out again! Wait, no . . . never mind . . . there’s the rain again.]

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Art journal pages
• An altered book project (well, not the whole thing – but some pages in an altered book)

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Page Prompt #1: Maps (for those of you who follow my other blog, Jenn Hollowell, you know that I tend to look at “maps” in a different way, so this prompt will carry that sort of creative twist.)
• Page Prompt #2: Lists (for those of you who follow me on here, as well as the blog I listed above, you’ll know that I’m OCD when it comes to my passion for list making…so, this is a PERFECT prompt for me!)

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Last week, I really wanted to get back in touch with my creative self. Instead, I found myself managing some pretty strange schedules. Some of the kids were here, some were there, and some were at the other place . . . we didn’t all finally unite as a family at the same time until last night right before supper time. It was so out of the norm that it threw me off for the entire week!

I managed to keep up with my pressing deadlines for work, but everything else seemed to fall out of place. I also worked on lesson plans, got caught up on grading, and created the tests that are being given to my nephew today. So, all was not lost – I was productive! However, the time for art failed to present itself to me once again!

I have figured out a solution to this problem, though. Rather than waiting for artistic moments to present themselves in the midst of this hectic life of mine, I’m going to MAKE them happen. Why not, right? I grab the bull by its horns when it comes to my career, my household, and educational matters . . why can’t I approach this facet of my life in the same manner? I CAN and I WILL.

In other news, the piano is HERE! You have no idea how excited I am about this! It’s my fiancé’s grandmother’s, like I mentioned before, and it’s the same piano he and his sister learned on when they were younger. It just needs to be tuned, and it’s ready to go! I’m hoping to find a piano teacher that offers bulk discounts for lessons considering there’s so many of us that will be under their instruction! I can’t wait!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

In the meantime, I leave you with this question: what is your favorite art supply to work with in your art journal?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Do you have trouble sharing your work with the public because of your inner critic? How do you sleigh that dragon? If you do share your work, it to a chosen few or to a large audience?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

• Keeping a Grief Journal
• Managing Grief Through Journal Writing
• 4 Ideas for Writing a Grief Journal
• Healing Through Words: Keeping a Grief Journal

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve noticed something in the past four or five weeks. Each and every time I say I’m going to work on some art, something comes up that pulls me away from those projects or completely obliterates my free time. Why is that? Whenever I don’t mention it at all, though, there is no problems or pressing circumstances that require my immediate attention.

It’s weird.

So, from now on, I’m going to say that I’m not doing art this weekend. Nope. No art for Jenn…

• Jenn will not be working on a mixed media painting for her living room. No way!
• Jenn will not be exploring new techniques in her art journal to later write about. Absolutely NOT!
• Jenn will not be planning out a new altered book project to use as a teaching guide for her children. Are you kidding me?
• Jenn will not be writing two illustrated letters. Nope, not going to happen.

There. Now that that’s taken care of, on to other news. I’ve also mentioned in the past that I will be presenting lesson plans in my suite101 topic in the coming weeks. Yes, this is still the plan. These lesson plans are still under development and will be presented one by one as they’re finished. I’m looking forward to adding this content, and hopefully will be able to get the “powers that be” here to give them their own section if they garner enough hits.

We’ll see what happens!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I know, I know – there are times in my life when I really need to let things go, and there are other times when it would behoove me not to do so. Finding the balance between what and what not is the challenge. However, when it comes to my career, I really do need that “obsessive compulsive” organization people have told me time and time again was the cause of my stress.

In reality: not being that organized has been to my detriment.

So, I’ll continue down the path of my list making and month mapping. I keep letting others who really don’t know how I work or what it takes for me to operate efficiently throughout the work day influence my decisions about such matters . . . I don’t know why I do that considering I know what works best for my career routine and what doesn’t.

I probably sound like a broken record when it comes to this stuff, but that’s also how I work. ::smiles:: Venting it all out in a blog or other public forum is a good way to keep me accountable for such decisions, as well as provide motivation for me to do more. I don’t mean more in terms of adding to my workload, but more in terms of enriching what I’m doing so it is the fulfilling experience the creative side of me craves.

Do you let others influence your career decisions to the point that is becomes a bit of a mess that needs to be straightened up later on?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m not really an April Fool this year, but I am going to say Happy April Fool’s Day to you all! ::smiles:: I don’t have the energy to really get into this year in comparison to year’s passed, but that’s only because I haven’t been able to get rid of a cold that has been lingering for what seems like an eternity.

I am, however, going to try my best to embrace spring. Last night after dinner, the kids went outside with my fiancé to play baseball while I did the evening chores. It was so nice to have the kitchen window open and listen to their laughter while I went about my business. I would have joined them, but I had way too much to catch up on from letting things slip a bit this week (that cold…I tell you what).

I’m going to start working on some spring art projects today:

Art journal pages (that is always a great alternative when I’m sitting on the couch coughing my head off)

Illustrated/visual letters (I’ve fallen behind on my pen pal letter writing routine, so I’m going to draw up some “spring-y” letters during my coughing and hacking frenzy later)

It’s going to be a busy schoolwork day for my nephew, too, so we need to get started with that. We have him working during regular school hours, so I have a few minutes (to cough and hack) to gather up some materials and set myself up on the couch before we have to get started. I really wanted to hit the library today (doing research on fairies), but I just don’t have it in me again today. This will pass, though . . . because it always does.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

That’s right, it’s finally here. It seems like a long road traveled, but we’ve finally made it to our first full week of homeschooling. I’m starting my nephew off slowly because I don’t want him to become overwhelmed and frustrated the first week into this program. Right now, he’s working on getting all of his notebooks and assignments from school organized. There was a LOT in his locker that he “never got around to doing” that my fiancé and I thought would be beneficial for him to finish. Especially since we’re trying to finish off the credits he already started at the beginning of the year.

It feels strange working with someone sitting at the desk behind me. My entire routine is going to change, but that’s okay. It’s going to be a different routine for him too, obviously, so it looks like the transition is about to begin! We’re going to be spending time here, at the library, and other various locations throughout his program. This summer is going to be interesting because I start school back up, too, and we’ll be managing the summer schedules of the three little ones. It’s going to be busy around here!

I was going to move my easels up into the living room this weekend and start a new painting, but those plans never came to fruition because:

• I have the beginnings of a cold that wants to kick my butt, but it’s taking it’s time . . . long, drawn out, and torturous symptoms.

• My easels are folded up, and under a bunch of things I had to stack up on top of my work surfaces when cleaning up after the flood.

I will work on this, though, because the ideas won’t leave me alone. This isn’t a complaint, mind you, but rather an observation. I love it when this happens, actually, because it reminds me that a creative part of me is living and breathing – and deserves as much attention as the rest of me!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

When I was doing research for a writing project about activities dads can do with their daughters last year, I came across an interesting idea – mud painting. At first, this sounded like a terrible idea that was just begging for trouble. Until I realized one thing . . . it’s not about the mess, it’s about the fun.

Once I pulled my head out of the idea of hosing off children before they walked through the door, I genuinely grasped the idea:

1. Set up a disposable or plastic table cloth (one of those blue tarps will also suffice) next to a particularly mucky area.
2. Cover the “work area” with paintbrushes in various sizes, as well as some large pieces of art paper.
3. Roll up your sleeves (and the cuffs of your pants because, let’s face it, you’re going to be tempted to dig your feet in the mud with your kids), dip the paintbrushes in the mud, and start painting.

Now, these works of interesting art won’t “stay” the same way as a typical painting will. It’s not about that, though. Rather than letting it be about the preservation of “little people art,” think about the quality time you’ll be spending with your little ones getting dirty and being silly.

This popped into my mind, of course, because I’m staring through my window as what looks like a chocolate pudding party in my yard. ::smiles::

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m looking forward to when all this sickness has passed through this house and leaves once and for all. It’s touched everyone, except my nephew and my fiancé, and seems to want to linger longer than usual. It’s frustrating because the household was staying well for so long . . . and then this new mutant bacteria or virus decided to invade. Ugh. I hate that.

I’m hoping he feels better later because we’re supposed to be making posters for family reading night when the others get home from school. Family reading night isn’t until next Thursday, but we’re starting now to ensure all three of the little ones have their posters completed – they’re very particular when it comes to their artwork, and I’m thankful to have this week to work with them!

They’ve been creating a lot of art similar to what you’d find in a graphic novel, too. It’s interesting because I was thinking my boys would be interested in comic books, like my sister, but they prefer longer stories. My stepdaughter seems to be picking up with the same interests, which interests me because no one in her family enjoys writing or art. I love it when that happens! Now, if only we can get my nephew on board . . . he’s fighting us tooth and nail about anything like that ever since we took over guardianship (actually, even before the papers passed he was fighting this). He’ll come around eventually . . . I hope!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My stepdaughter and I each received letters yesterday, so today is a day for replies! We love writing and receiving letters around here, so it’s always like a gift each time we open the mailbox to find something new. My boys are going to write some letters, too, because they have a lot of news and artwork to share, too!

We love turning our letters into “visual” letters, similar to an art journal page (in the margins of the letters), so this is going to be an excellent opportunity to be creative today. During summer vacation, we write at least one letter per week – but, now that they can write with less effort (as they get older, everything becomes less of a chore), they seem to want to do this more often. I think that’s great!

So, back to letter writing – I’m going to have everything set out and ready for them to get going with right after they finish their after school snack. I’m thinking about encouraging my nephew to write letters as part of his homeschooling program, as well, so he can start getting some fun mail (and hopefully gain a fresh, new, and inspiring perspective on writing) once and awhile, too. We’ll have to see how that goes, though . . .

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Yesterday, I went through my entire living room area and did some serious de-cluttering. I started with my desk, which looked like a bomb went off on it, and started purging and organizing. Once I reconfigured my stacks, organized my supplies, and threw away a ton of stuff . . . I feel l can work in harmony now!

I moved on to the rest of the living room area from there:

I cleaned off and organized my nephew’s desk.

All of the board games went into a closet in another area of our home.

The TV table I had set up next to my desk to hold the over-flow of paper work I was amassing disappeared.

Books that needed to be put away because we were finished reading them or using them as references went back on to the bookshelves (rather than being piled all over the place).

Art supplies went back where they belong, rather than being piled up everywhere.

I also changed out all of my dark winter linens and fabrics for my spring colors. I can’t believe how changing something as simple as a throw blanket and toss pillow can make everything so much lighter, brighter, and airier in a space. Welcome spring! I need to go through the rest of the rooms and change out the fabrics and linens, too, so spring can trickle throughout the rest of our home.

I love that these little changes feel like creative phases . . . bits of artistic touches throughout the main living spaces of our home. My fiancé noticed the difference in how everything “felt” and how much bigger the rooms felt as soon as he walked through the door last evening. I’m hoping my children notice the positive difference when they return home, too, later today.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

When I was younger, I was lucky enough to live in a part of the city where there were still trees in my back yard as far as my little eyes could see. Whenever I was upset, in need of some creative inspiration, or wanted to sort through my thoughts I would go the same tree stump each time. It was nestled to the side of a well-traveled trail the neighborhood kids and I would use to go from house to house or to use during our various explorations.

I want a new stump now.

Those days are long gone. We moved from that home when I was twelve and, as odd as this sounds, I haven’t been able to find a “place” like that (or even a suitable substitute stump, for that matter) ever since. I live in the country and, of course that means tons of tress stumps in our back yard. The kids and I turn them into fairy houses . . . but I have not been able to find a “sanctuary place” where I could use the space the same way I did when I was younger. Yes, I know this sounds strange . . . but I need a stump!

So, rather than complain about it for the next several months, I’m going to get out there and look. I’m going to bring my art journal, and some other goodies and treat it as an artist date. However, I have to wait. The majority of our land is swamped this time of year, but it’s clear throughout the tail end of spring and the majority of summer . . . so I have plenty of time to be “stumped.”

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve been thinking a lot about how our decision to homeschool easily folds into my career. I have to make up monthly content plans for most of the companies I work for, and I’m going to have to come up with lesson plans for most of the subjects my nephew will be working with. I thought that was an interesting little bit of trivia.

So, back to my original thought – I’m working on my content plans for the month of April because (these months are slipping by quickly) we’re nearly finished with the month of March (already). I have a lot of plans for my suite101 topic and, like every other month, I’m really going to try working through the entire plan (noted on other blogs as my month map, for those of you who may be wondering).

Now, in keeping with the whole homeschooling thing I brought up a minute ago, I will be creating a lot of lesson plans within each category of my topic. I received quite a few requests from teachers in the past month or two about using my articles in their classrooms, and that’s what has inspired this decision. In addition, these lesson plans and tutorials will be another resource homeschoolers can use to build their lesson plans.

My goal is to have all the content planning finished by the end of the weekend, and finish writing our homeschooling curriculum plan by Monday night (in preparation for the meeting we’re having with the school on the 25^th) . . . so, I’ll be working on both at the same time. This will be excellent “practice” for when we begin our homeschooling program because, obviously, I will still be working in the midst!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Even though it still looks like winter when I glance out my window, I’m still going to embrace the fact that tomorrow is the first day of spring. It’s still kind of cold, but it’s not cold enough to wear a heavy jacket. Our driveway looks like chocolate pudding, but that will let up soon enough once everything has melted.

In celebration of spring, I’m surrounding myself with things that remind me of this season. For example, I found some pastel colored file folders on clearance a few months ago and now is the time to break them out and put them to use! I was going to use them back when I bought them, but my memory failed me as soon as stuck them in a pile of “stuff I’ll get to later.” That worked out perfectly in this sense, though, don’t you think?

I dreamed last night about potted plants, so even my unconscious self is ready for the nicer weather. My dreams were filled with Boston ferns hanging in each window, planter boxes filled with flowers, and big planter barrels filled with vegetables. Yes, I’m really looking forward to getting this season rolling! I love seeing Mother Nature sweep her paintbrush everywhere!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

It’s my honey’s birthday today and picking up what he wanted for his gift last weekend makes he easy for me. ::phew:: Saves me a shopping trip, and it also saves me the worry of picking up the wrong thing! I’m still going to wrap it up and give it to him with his cake when he gets home from work tonight because I’m just silly like that.

My oldest son is home sick from school again today. I went to Parent and Teacher conferences last night, and his teacher suggested that I keep him out today since they only have a half a day of school and he wouldn’t be missing much. The conferences for all three children (my nephew didn’t have one at the high school this time around) we REALLY well. They’re all doing so well!

So, all four of the kids will be getting out of school early today (like yesterday). I love having the extra time with them. It feels like a holiday around here lately because they were all home all weekend (which is unusual), and now they’re home early from school two days in a row! ::smiles:: We’re going to watch Mouse and the Motor Cycle as soon as they get home, then we’re going to have some reading and art time. I can’t wait!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My oldest son was sent home from school yesterday, and is home again today. He’s feeling better, but he’s still not quite 100%. This boy never-ever complains about anything, usually has a huge appetite, and hates sleeping. So, it was really easy to tell he wasn’t feeling well when he was burning up, had no appetite, and slept for fourteen hours. Poor little guy.

This reminds me of when I was younger and I had to miss school. I used to pile up a TV tray with coloring books, activity books, storybooks, and a drawing pad. I would keep this all propped up next to my bed so that, when I woke up from my medicine-induced comma, I could have some creative moments as I rested. I’m thinking about setting up the same thing for my little guy today. He’s so sleepy (not from medicine, but from fighting this cold), so I’m not sure he’ll be in the mood for creative moments or not.

My youngest is getting over his cold nicely, and hasn’t had to miss any school. I’m wondering how long it will be before the two other kids (and my fiancé) come down with this? I’m feeling under the weather (started feeling icky yesterday), and was thankful when I was able to sleep in about one hour this morning while my fiancé took the time to get the kids ready for school (he’s SO GOOD to me). I’m pounding the vitamins, though, and am already feeling better.

In other news: I’ve been reading the Twilight series since March 2^nd or March 3^rd, and I’m on the last book already (I’m trying to read this one slower because I don’t want it to end, but I’m having zero luck at that.). This book has been stirring up some new artistic inspirations (nothing weird, just interesting), and I love how that happens. It’s been so long since I’ve been lost in any type of fiction or creative writing, and I always love when I do this because it stirs up creative thoughts in other areas of my life. I need to get my hands on another addictive series when I finish with this one! My art journal is going to be on fire this week!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

The kids were all home this weekend for various reasons, and it was so strange considering they’re all usually off with their other parents. It was jam packed with activities from Friday right up until Saturday afternoon (late). My youngest got VERY sick Friday night and into Saturday, so that curve-balled some plans we had. That’s okay, though, because I loved the extra cuddle time.

My oldest is home sick with the same thing my youngest had. He really wanted to go to school, but the nurse threw a wrench into that plan and sent him home early. He said, “I’m kind of glad I’m going home. I’m tired, Mommy.” His eyes were glazed right over, his temperature was 102, and he walked like a drunkin’ sailor. Poor little guy. Hopefully it’ll pass as quickly as it did for my youngest . . . and I’m hoping it’ll miss the other two kids completely!

Even though I said I was definitely taking some time to myself this weekend, I didn’t create any art. My time was limited because the kids were home unexpectedly (though, it was a wonderful change because we LOVE having them around), and because there was so much illness in the house. I did read, though (I’m on the last book in the Twilight Series – so addictive.), and I did write a letter. So, all was not lost. This weekend, my fiancé and I have plans to take a day or two to ourselves, so that that will be nice. I see artistic opportunities on the horizon.

In other news: we’ve inherited (well, an early inheritance) my fiancé’s Grandmother’s piano!!!! I can’t wait until it’s in our home, and tuned! We’re all going to take lessons – something I’ve dreamed about ever since my neighbor growing up (Jenny Sawyer) started taking lessons. I’m so excited about this . . . though, I think there will be four others here are not quite as happy about the lessons as I am. Hehe They’ll get over it! (I hope.)

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

For the past few weekends, I’ve wanted to take some time off to myself to kind of regroup creatively. Because life kept getting in the way, or should I say Mother Nature (flooding), I haven’t been able to make good on this plan. This weekend, however, I’m going to take some time off for the first time in what feels like forever. I know it hasn’t been that long, really, but it feels like that long!

The house is going to be empty most of the weekend, so this is a great opportunity to think of ME without feeling guilty. The three little ones are going off with their other parents Saturday and Sunday, and my fiancé and nephew will be working at my fiancé’s grandmother’s house most of the weekend. My fiancé came up with this idea, so I’m taking him up on it by reading and working on some art pieces. It’s going to be so relaxing!

I’m going to be positive about nothing happening to prevent this from happening. This is GOING to happen. I am GOING to take some time to myself. NOTHING is going to come in the way of these plans. (I hope.)

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I can’t help wondering if it is impossible to teach a teen who has never ever been exposed to the wonders of the art world any appreciation for this form of creative expression and exploration. I’m speaking about my nephew and our impending venture with homeschooling. As part of the curriculum, I have to teach him about the arts. When it comes to my children, I’m met with enthusiasm continuously because they’ve been exposed to this consistently throughout their lives . . .

. . . . my nephew, on the other hand, has never been really “taught” the exquisiteness of losing oneself in a piece of fiction, the mesmerizing affect poetry can have, or the way art can be the most intense form of therapy . . . .

To him, all of this stuff is boring and stupid. This is a response that is to be expected with all things considered, but is it an impossible situation? I can’t help wondering if there’s a way to break through the barriers. I can’t help wondering if all the bad influences about these talents can be worn off, eventually? It bothers me that he’s been robbed of this aspect of his childhood. I’ve seen so many children’s eyes fill as their imaginations ran wild when a story was told to them. Did he miss out on this? I’ve seen so many children’s expressions change from working furiously to the gratification of accomplishment when completing a particularly challenging piece of art. Has this opportunity been bestowed upon him?

I can’t help wondering . . . .

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Because I’m a mixed media artist and am completely addicted to this type of creativity, I tend to stash a lot of “stuff.” Some of this stuff includes:

• Those return envelopes you receive with junk mail, or bills you intend to pay online.
• Catalogs I have no intension of buying from, but they have pretty pictures!
• Empty boxes (these are great for templates, book covers, 3D art, etc.)
• Toilet paper and paper towel tubes (craft projects GALORE with these babies!)
• Brown paper bags
• Empty tins, coffee cans, jars, and plastic containers.
• Tea wrappers (the Stash tea wrappers small yummy, and the insides add “bling” to your creative thing)
• Bits of what-not that make me think, “Ooooooo, I can make something with that!”

I never envisioned water coming into my creative space (despite the many dreams I had about this…involving a cow…don’t ask), so I kept most of my stash in paper bags and shipping boxes. I know it’s just “recyclables” to most, but it was “art supplies” to me . . . so it was really hard picking up these drenched goods and getting rid of them forever.

I’m stashing again, though. This time, I’m using plastic totes and keeping what isn’t in a tote up off the floor. Until we get our “dirt work guy” in here (well, until we get a loan for the dirt work guy), we’ll be experiencing many more of these water issues, and I don’t want to lose more “stuff” in the midst.

What sorts of things are in your stashes?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I created some art I forgot all about it. How could that be possible, right? Well, it is. When I was writing Mixed Media Painting Using Toilet Paper Rolls, I made the little flower that goes on to the painting. I didn’t finish the piece by any stretch of the instructions presented, but I DID make SOMETHING! Finally! A bit of an artistic moment! Will this lead to more?? I certainly hope so!

I have been envisioning a basic painting to hang on the large blank wall in my mud room. Nothing too fantastical, but something large-scale . . . so, a muted composition that is on the large size. I had some knick-knacks hung on cute wooden shelves that looked absolutely adorable before . . . but no one knows how to actually open the door all the way and walk through. So, now I have a bunch of really cute – BROKEN – knick-knacks and the shelves are stored in the basement. ::sighs::

So, maybe I’ll create that piece of art this weekend!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

We talked to our homeowner’s insurance agent yesterday and learned that water damage caused by ground water is not covered. ::sighs:: Yes, we expected that to happen. However, we would have LOVED to be proven wrong in this case. With the upcoming weather tonight and into tomorrow, we can’t help worrying . . . although, we’re even more worried about the inevitable “big melt.” It’s going to be a lot of work, that’s for sure!

Luckily, there are also solutions on the horizon. Our original contractor didn’t install our drainage system properly, and unfortunately, we have no recourse when it comes to that because we’re beyond the six months statute. My fiancé has connections to other ground work men who can fix this issue (hopefully FOREVER), but it’s going to cost some bucks. We read that our town offers loans, so we’re going to look into that. Why does everything that is absolutely necessary have to cost SO MUCH money?

On the brighter side, the basement is super-duper clean. ::smiles:: I miss my art supplies, though, and the ability to work freely in my little office area. Plans to continue building down there are on hold for the next year or two because of this water issue. So, it looks like my living room is going to be my art studio. I’m also going to work outside A LOT when the warm weather hits. I have a few easels that are perfect for both tabletop and standing deck work. I’m excited about that!

There’s a positive spin to everything if you look hard enough.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

We’re going to start homeschooling our nephew within the next couple of weeks, and even though I already have a number of great resources at my disposal, I can’t help feeling like I need more. He’s sixteen and we’ll be working on getting him “caught up” with his junior class during the next six months or so.

So far, I have guides teaching me how to create a workable curriculum, all the Maine laws, support group information, and guidelines about how to create a portfolio. In addition to that, I found some websites that offer legitimate online courses for high school students. This will be particularly useful when he gets into subjects that are way above my head (i.e. anything math related!).

What do you think of homeschooling?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My plans to work on art projects with the kids yesterday during their snow day didn’t work out as planned. Two of the kids worked on their own independent projects, one of them played in his room, and another one slept on the couch when he wasn’t complaining about his cell phone not working. Me? I was working furiously to keep up with my assignments, keep the kids fed, and keep up with other household things that kept popping up.

I really, really, really wanted to work on art, though. I really, really, really did! Today? I touched my art journal and glanced at my gel pens. That was the extent of my creative moments this morning. Later? We have to deal with insurance adjusters for the vehicle accident I was just in, and we have to deal with insurance adjusters for the flood we just had. (sighs) Even later? I’ll be making up work-time from having to take off time to deal with all the insurance adjusters (how’s that for good grammar?).

Tomorrow is a new day with new time for new opportunities, and I’ll remain positive of the potential possibilities. If I don’t think like that, I’ll believe that none of my art supplies will EVER be touched again and, to be honest, that would be a real bummer. That won’t happen, though, because creating is like breathing for me. If I’m not writing, sharing something creative, or creating art in some way . . . then, I’m walking through life not really living it.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Yes, we’re having yet another snowstorm! The kids (aside from those who are assigned to snow shoveling duty) are really excited about having another day off from school. Honestly, I can’t remember the last time when these kids have had a full week of school. There have been a lot of snow days, teacher workshops, holidays, and parent/teacher conferences consecutively.

It took my fiancé about one hour and forty-five minutes to commute into work today, one hour longer than it typically takes him. He was stuck behind a state plow truck going 15 miles per hour, so that slowed down all the traffic considerably. Then, when he wasn’t stuck behind that, the roads were too slippery for standard travel speeds. It’s a mess out there! It wouldn’t bother me so much if this happened during the beginning of the season, rather than right before the season should be ending!!!!! Grr…….

In other news, we had a flood this weekend and my plans for art were put on hold. We spent eight hours cleaning, clearing, and stowing on Saturday. We woke up to three inches of water in our basement because the drainage around our house was done incorrectly. It’s such a mess. We had a rough time with it last year, and this year is going to be much worse because the house is continuing to settle. Luckily, my fiancé has many connections so we can resolve this issue.

Because the kids have no school today, we’re going to work on some illustrated letters. That will give us all an opportunity to catch up on correspondence to “far away family,” and get in some creative moments! ::smiles::

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

So, we’ve been talking a lot about the different directions this household has been taking since September of last year. It’s been such an interesting ride, and life is never boring around here. There are more changes on the horizon, and it looks like it’ll be beneficial to everyone. We’re considering home-schooling our teen nephew in order to get him back on track with his education. So, it looks like he’ll be joining me this summer when I return to my home-schooling sessions this summer.

In other news, my streak of luck with no accidents during the winter has ended. I was run off the road yesterday, but no one was hurt. The van that ran me off kept going, so I have no idea who it was. I ended up slipping on slush, spinning my truck the wrong way, hitting a snow bank on the passenger side, and then spinning the truck again so the rear was buried deep into the snow bank filling the ditch on the side of the road. Thankfully, a nice guy with a huge chain came to rescue us.

What else? I’m taking some time to myself this weekend for creative moments. It’s been such a whirlwind of activity and mishaps since Wednesday that I really need a breather. I feel like art journaling, illustrated letters, and possibly a mixed media painting is exactly the kind of harmony I need to get me back on track!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

When you’re working on your mixed media art projects, is there a particular art supply you use each and every time? This could something as simple as your art journal for daily work, or your love for using gesso. I’d love to hear what you grab each time you gather your gear.

Me? I have a short list of favorites I use more often than not:

• Distress ink
• Old book pages
• Gel medium
• Gel pens
• Vintage style stickers
• Vintage style ephemera

I tend to wonder if I’ve fallen into a rut because, whenever I shop for new supplies or whenever I gather my supplies for an art session, I always gravitate to the same thing. Is this because I’m in a rut, or is this because I’m working within my own personal style? How do I figure out where this fine line is drawn?

I’m interested in hearing your thoughts about this! I’ve got my coffee – let’s chat!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Mother Nature decided to dump over a foot of snow on our already sleepy little town last night. The children were delighted to wake up to an extra day of vacation, but the teens were less than pleased when they heard it would be a day of helping (the boy is helping shovel and plow, the girl is helping with the kids and housework). The little ones are thrilled, though, because they haven’t been “home” all vacation and they love playing here.

It’s going to be a day of transition, as well. We’re all transitioning back into our regular routines, which is difficult after everyone being away from home for a week and a half. Some of the kids have absolutely no structure, rules, or routines when they go off elsewhere and it’s really difficult for them to transition back into the way things happen over here. They do eventually, though, and they’ve all said how much they prefer how things are over here and that they’ve voiced this to the other adults . . . and they seem hurt that these people just don’t care. That’s the hard part of having such a blended family.

There will likely be school tomorrow, so that means another day of transitioning back into schedules and routines. My youngest has been getting stomachaches with each change, which wasn’t met well with the last set of adults he was with. So, he’s been worried all day about how that’s going to play out here and at school. Poor little guy. All I can do is comfort and reassure him.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I have an assignment to write about how to make a mixed media collage using photographs taken of winter scenery. What a perfect coincidence! The weather hit us like a raging bull night before last; it lasted all through yesterday, and then into this morning. We’ll be hit with yet another storm Sunday, but I have no idea if it will be anything like this past storm. It will add to the accumulation we already have, though, which will further enhance my picture taking opportunities!

Typically, I don’t really care for the winter at all. In this situation, though, I am happy to walk through my property taking pictures of the snow covered trees and other elements of nature. This is a quickie assignment, but I think I can expand it into other writing opportunities. I love it when that happens! The best part of this whole thing is I finally found my camera’s adapter, so I can share photos of my work (as well as upload the pictures necessary for this assignment).

When was the last time you incorporated nature in with your artwork?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My step-daughter received a letter from her grandmother yesterday, and I received one from her the day before. She’s one of my pen pals and I absolutely love exchanging letters with her about her granddaughter’s experiences, the weather, changes in the household, and anything else that pops into my mind. My other pen pal is a writer friend, so I feel like I can connect with her in ways people in my real life will never understand.

So, today I’m going to write some illustrated letters with my step-daughter. She’s been away at her mom’s all week, and just returned home last night. She clung to me like she hasn’t seen me in months, and that was such a wonderful feeling. I can’t wait to work on these letters with her. She’s playing a puppy game with her dad right now, so I have plenty of time to work on some projects and deadlines before our day of letter writing begins. I’m so excited! I dreamed about it last night – that’s how much I’m looking forward to creative moments with this little girl.

I have a ton of “art related” articles and project tutorials to catch up on today, too. So, while I’m working on these while she’s working on art projects as well. She has a poster she’s coloring, so it will give us a good opportunity to “work” together on “important papers.” She so cute!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Last night, my fiancé told me there was a message from the department of education about my student loans. I told him that I’ve been trying to figure out what to do about the continuation of my education . . .

• Do I finish out my degree?
• Do I say, “forget it,” and start paying back what I owe?

He said, “I think you would be foolish not to finish.” I expressed my concerns about cutting back to part-time work so I could handle my course load. He whipped out the calculator while I was in mid-sentence to prove that we would have no problem with that.

He’s so supportive and, I don’t know why it surprises me each time he does this. So, I filled out my FAFSA this afternoon and will hopefully start in July (the current semester is already in progress, so I just assume wait instead of starting out behind everyone else). I admit, I’m nervous . . . but I know I have the support I need to finish.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m not terribly unhealthy, but a flag was raised last Thursday when I was in for a routine check-up with my doctor. I see her every three months for various reasons, and she’s been making note of my gradual weight gain each time. This past visit, though, she made a point of telling me that I’ve put on 20 lbs. since this time last year and that’s concerning.

I, of course, had about 1,000 excuses lined up and ready to go. However, I didn’t use any of them. I fessed up to the fact that I’ve been succumbing to sugar cravings on a daily basis, and I have a mini-gym in my basement that I’ve been ignoring for about a year. Yes, yes, yes . . . bad Jenn . . . blah, blah, blah. Would you like to hear my excuses for why? Okay, I’ll spare you just as I spared her.

I worked out twice this morning (two short sets that equal one minimum recommended set to start), and I didn’t pig out on all the Valentine’s Day goodies sprinkles ALL OVER the house. I also started over-hauling my art space. If you have seen that area of my home, you will know without a doubt what kind of workout that entails. I noticed that, when I worked out this morning, I didn’t feel the same run-down fatigue I typically fix with coffee. My mid-afternoon desire to crash was alleviated, as well. Yay!

I started writing an illustrated letter to one of my penpals about my desire to be healthier, feel better daily, and boost my self-esteem. So, all in all, it’s been a positive shift.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m getting ready to bake my son’s birthday cake and wrap up all of his birthday presents. He’ll be spending his birthday, which is Sunday, with his dad this year. I’m sure they’ll be giving him a cake, so I wish I could do something a bit different for him. I love how those cupcake towers look, and want one badly! I almost picked one up a couple of years ago, but it was really expensive.

Why haven’t I “bargain hunted” since then?

I’m the type who loves searching for a good deal. We have cupcake parties here quite often, so a tower wouldn’t be a frivolous purchase (in a couple of months, anyway – see, Is She Really Writing? to understand what I mean). Instead of a cupcake tower, I’m baking him what he requested – a vanilla cake with vanilla frosting that has been dusted with cinnamon. He asked this after our last cupcake party because; you guessed it, that is how I made those cupcakes. Hehe

So, I’m baking up a storm and wrapping gifts today. I didn’t want to wait until the last minute (we’re throwing him a tiny family party tonight), but life keeps getting in the way of these tasks. That’s okay, though, because I always manage to get everything done . . . despite the sweat on my brow and the hidden messes under my bed.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve been looking at note cards in my collection and, out of nowhere, thoughts about how to alter them have been popping into my mind. Typically, when I buy note cards I leave them as they are because they’re already something I like (the design, color, text, etc.). I buy them to include with letters I write, to use as personalized greetings, and for thank you notes.

So, why do I need the change?

Okay, I don’t really need the change. I guess it’s the desire for creative moments overwhelming me. I have a set of note cards sitting on my desk right now . . . staring me in the face, almost mocking me very existence! They want me to punch the corners with a lace pattern, they want me to add some quotation stickers, and they are screaming for some eyelets. That was a bit dramatic, right?

Creative moments are looming on the horizon.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Yesterday after school, my oldest son came up to me while I was working and said, “I’m going to build a truck.” I said, “Sounds good. I’d love to see when you’re finished.”

He scampered off to gather his supplies: construction paper, scissors, and a glue stick.

Without measuring, drawing, or anything . . . he built a pick-up truck in about fifteen minutes. Seriously! He had “super swamp” tires, a tow hitch, and his version of construction paper shiny rims. He made the entire thing 3D and could drive it around (the wheels don’t turn, but he doesn’t care).

He just BUILT it without any help and without anyone giving him any type of instructions cluing him in about the process! How does he do these things? I don’t think I could figure out how to cut out all the pieces, glue them together, and get everything to line up without planning, measuring, and drawing. He did NONE of that. It amazes me each time.

He’s been doing things like this since he was four (he’s nine now), and it makes me wonder what else this little man is capable of doing. To me, this sort of thing is a step beyond artistic ability . . . yes, yes, yes, I’m a proud Mommy!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

My youngest son will be turning seven on February 15^th, and he’s so excited! He’ll be spending his birthday with his father, so we’re throwing him a very small party here Friday night . . . yes, I know it’s Friday the 13^th, but we’re trying to overlook that in light of the impending celebration! ::smiles:: Because it’s so last minute and being held early in the evening, only a couple of people can attend.

He doesn’t care, though. He loves being with his immediate family, and he loves the idea of choosing his own cake flavor (vanilla). I make all the cakes for our family’s birthdays and love the ability to be creative. I’m not a master cake decorator by any means, but the family still loves how they turn out. (Thankfully!)

I can’t believe how fast the time is flying by. I never believed grown-up’s when I was little whenever they said childhood years are fleeting. I always thought they were exaggerating. One minute we’re all learning how to use finger paints, and now they’re binding their own books. How does that happen? One minute they’re trying to figure out how to write their names, and now they’re completing stories. It’s amazing.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Do you wait until the last minute to get things out into the mail? I’ve been doing this a lot more lately than usual. For example, I really should’ve gotten birthday invitations out for my son’s party on Friday much sooner than I did . . . why didn’t I? I really should get Valentine’s Day cards out in the mail by today, but they’re not ready . . . why?

I don’t purposely wait until the last minute to do these things, nor am I the type to procrastinate about sending cards out. However, lately I’ve managed to pick up this habit somehow. Could it be because I’m busy doing other things that I think might be more important? Could it be that these tasks have become less important to me? Have I lost the spirit of these types of celebrations?

In all honesty, I don’t have a straight answer for any of these questions. All I know is that I intend to break this habit because, really, it isn’t who I am. I love celebrations of any kind, I love expressing my feelings through greeting cards (even if they’re ecards sent at the last minute), and I love sending things through the mail that is considered “fun” mail all the time. Anyone who knows me and knows me well can vouch for that. ::smiles::

So, I’m wondering . . . are you the type to wait until the last minute? Is this a recent habit that you’ve also picked up that you’d like to break?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Yesterday, my stepdaughter and I found a moment for art before she went to the Princess Ball (a daddy and daughter dance held annually at her school – it’s the cutest thing ever). We wrote a note to the tooth fairy explaining that she and her step-brothers switched rooms last week. (we switched them around so she and the new addition to our family, a fifteen year old teen girl, could share a room)

It was very important that this note be just right, so we:

1. Wrote with sparkle gel pens, as a way of symbolizing fairy sparkle dust (similar to what is found in the Fairyopolis books)
2. We used purple construction paper because, for some reason, she believed that is what the tooth fairy likes the best
3. We used a lace corner punch to add some artistic edges
4. We drew vines and flowers around the edges of the note

When we were finished with the tooth fairy’s note, we hung it on her bedroom door with the words, “To the Tooth Fairy” written across the front. The problem was solved, and an artistic moment was found. It was a small artistic moment, but one worth embracing nonetheless. Monday, I’ll be making a dragon book with my youngest son. I love the imaginations these kids have. It’s so much fun creating art based on whatever pops in there mind because it’s rarely uninteresting!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Some of you know that I’m a fierce vitamin taker and Airborne user. Those two rituals have kept me cold-free since August and, with a family the size of mine, that’s no small feat. Right now, three of the kids have coughs and I’m sure the other two will be coughing and/or sneezing soon enough. My fiancé has a cold ALL the time (he works outside, so it’s difficult to keep his immune system in check), so I can’t believe I haven’t gotten sick sooner.

I’m glad I haven’t, though!

I’m talking about this because, when I was little, I was sick all the time. I have memories of missing a lot of school and, when I was sitting in bed wishing I felt better, I would start thinking creatively. I decided to get out one of those metal TV trays my mom had and fill it with art supplies. When I wasn’t crashed out from the medicine or the symptoms of whatever was going on, I was working with these materials. I needed to keep my “creative self” alive, even when I was feeling at my worst.

It’s been a long time since that’s happened. Now, I’m the mom and my TV trays are wooden. ::smiles:: Now, my children are the ones gathering their art supplies whenever they don’t feel well, and keeping their “creative selves” alive. It’s neat to watch, because I never shared my story with them about what I did when I didn’t feel good when I was a child. Right now, they’re all sitting at the kitchen table waiting to get ready for their bus . . . and drawing dragons. I love mornings like this.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’ve been getting a lot of “I have no idea what you’re talking about” type of comments on my articles lately. Mind you, these are articles I posted up to my suite101.com topic two years ago. So, this is proof that material is evergreen . . . even when it makes absolutely no sense to my readers at all. This prompted the question, though:

If these two or three articles are so completely misunderstood, why haven’t I been receiving comments within the past two years on them?

It’s interesting. The same person keeps commenting over and over again. Why is that? I haven’t been approving them to post up for the world to see because I tend to wonder if this is a different kind of SPAM. There are no links, but the person’s identity isn’t clear. So, what the heck is going on? It’s just weird. Ordinarily “weird” doesn’t bother me – heck, I’m weird! But seriously, folks, this is just WEIRD!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

We’re finished changing the kid’s rooms out, finally, and it was a huge undertaking to say the very least! It’s finished now, aside from some more organizing and toy weeding, and everyone is where they’re going to stay. It’ll take some adjusting for all five kids, but it won’t be long before everything is back on track again. I still can’t believe it took almost three days to switch two bedrooms!

Anyway, I unearthed some more cool things while I was moving things around, piling things on the kitchen table, and piling things in my living room. I love it when things like this happen because everything seems new again. The excitement of creating a new project returns, and it seems like we’re experiencing a new holiday or birthday! It’s pretty neat!

So, once everything is organized and we’re all settled, there will be some serious “arting” and crafting going on. The kids are so excited!! Yay!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I belong to another online community where we post questions and discussions on a daily basis with various points to ponder, as well as hard looks into our own realities. It’s really interesting to see some of the answers different people, particularly those from other countries, come up with regularly. I’ve been a member of this community for a couple of years, so it’s been a huge asset to my “idea notebook” and various personal research I’ve had to do.

Yesterday, I posted a question about tomorrow: name something that will make you happy. Just one thing.

Various responses came in including long term happiness, as well as things as simple as having a cup of coffee that comes out decent. Wide ranges of answers continue to pour in, and it’s really promoting a lot of thought about future pieces of writing. I love it when that happens!

My personal answer was to create art tomorrow. Yes, I’ve been obsessing about the creation of art, but it further validates my need to incorporate creativity into my daily routine. This will happen. I’m sure of it! I have to remain positive, or else I’ll just spin into a spiral of depression. Which, of course, would be completely ridiculous.

So, now I’m going to see what you have to say, my dear readers. Don’t be afraid to speak up! Name one thing that you can do tomorrow that will make you happy.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I don’t know why, but yesterday just felt really odd. Work went fine, housework was completed without overwhelming me, and I managed to get dinner on the table despite how late everyone was running (including me). The running late thing is usual, so that isn’t what felt odd.

What felt odd, though?

I can’t really put my finger on it . . . I wrote a letter, but that’s usual. I finalized a bunch of paperwork, but that’s [sort of] usual. I can’t figure it out. This feeling, of course, has trickled into today. So, this morning feels odd. I don’t know what the heck is going on.

So, in celebration of this oddness, I’m going to work on some art today. That’s unusual, so maybe that will relive this feeling of oddness. ::smiles:: Rather than worry that this odd feeling is something wrong, I’m going to embrace it and turn it into something that I want to make part of my regular routine anyway!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

When my fiancé couldn’t decide what to get me for my birthday, he suggested I get some arts and craft supplies from my favorite store. I’m sure you remember I blogged about the ridiculous prices I encountered during this little shopping trip. Well, I ordered a couple of things I really wanted from the store online and they arrived today!

• A “postage themed” rubber stamp.
• A lace themed tri-corner punch.

Yep, I’m going to have fun with these little things. I know, it’s not that much – but, anyone who knows me well knows it doesn’t take much to make me happy. In the stores, these two things would’ve been over $20.00, but I was able to find them online for a combined total of just over $10.00 with shipping included. I love bargain hunting.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

What do you think about mixed media snowmen? You have no idea what I’m talking about. Okay. It’s a snowman that is still a traditionally “built” snowman, but it is decorated with items that are not typical of a snowman. For example, an old set of mattress coils would be the eyes and you might see muffler parts as the arms; that sort of thing.

What do you think of these outdoor creations?

We have “stuff” all over the yard that is “needed” and, to be honest, I can’t figure out why most of it is here. I’m so tempted to gather it all up and create snowmen and other embellished snow sculptures with these “necessities.” However, that might cause a different kind of storm… unlike the snowstorm we’re experiencing here today. Perhaps I should rethink this a bit.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

We’re changing the bedrooms around so my son’s bedroom is now going to be my stepdaughter’s and vice versa. That way, there’s enough room for the new girl we just moved in and each of the girls will have their own closet (there’s two closets in the boy’s room). It seems to be the best solution. I was on the roll moving things yesterday… until I realized that this job is far larger than I anticipated!

I need help with the rest. Seriously.

I did unearth some reading books, activity books, craft kids, and art supplies that all of us completely forgot about. Some of these things were hidden on bookshelves, some were in closets, and some were in bins. So, that was a nice surprise. It looks like there’s some arts and crafts time to look forward to once this rather HUGE undertaking is complete. It’s good incentive to get the kids to help me with the rest, too!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

We’ve been going through some changes in our household that are all good, and are bringing about the opportunity for creative exploration in my art journal. We moved in another troubled teen last night and, I’m hoping to bring some positive artistic influences into their life as best as I can. I believe art is an excellent outlet for expressing anger, fear, resentment, confusion, and all the other emotions a teenager typically experiences when going through difficult times.

It’s going to be a long weekend (moving things, rearranging things, and making room), so I’m not sure if I’ll have the time for art or not. I might squeeze it in during breaks! That way, I don’t go completely crazy with how obsessive I tend to be about organization and cleaning. I don’t mean to be . . . it’s just how I’m made! During those opportunities, I’ll see if they’re interested in seeing what I’m doing and why I love to do it so much. Little by little, an interest may be cultivated.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m so excited to get started in Valentine’s Day art and craft projects with the kids! Today, we sorted through construction paper, gathered stickers, and sorted through coloring book pages. We started looking for pictures of flowers in magazines, but then we ran out of time. That will happen tomorrow, though!

We’re going to make handmade greeting cards, handmade books, and mixed media paintings. We’re going to alter the coloring book pages and incorporate them into each of these art projects. We’re all so excited to get these projects rolling.

The kids are all heading off into different directions this weekend, so we’re going to start on these projects Monday after school. If we work on it a little at a time, we’ll be able to finish projects for all the mothers, stepmothers, and grandmothers in plenty of time. Most of these things have to be sent through the mail, so we have to start early!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

There are going to be some changes, some expected and some not, going on around this busy little household of ours. We are the type of family who does not turn people in need away, so it looks like our household will be growing once again in the coming weeks. We could for see some of this, but not everything. It will be okay, though.

As a result of some of these changes, I have to pack away most of my creative materials until after these shifts are over with. Some of these changes will remain in place for a couple of years, while other changes will only be temporary (as far as we know). So, keeping out only what I absolutely need to keep the artist in me alive and well will be essential. I will have to do the same with the art supply explosion that my children have in the corner of what I call my office space.

I have an area of the living room, though, so all is not lost. I can hide some things under the bed, I can stash things in the corner of my closet, and I can re-organize my desk so more can fit. Like I’ve said before, every problem has a solution. While this is not necessarily a problem, more of a hiccup, there are still positive sides I will remain focused on.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I have a number of articles written in my handy dandy notebook for my topic, I just need to type them out and post them up. I’m working on a new plan for content presentation that I’m pretty excited about and happy with. I’d like to contribute at least one new article per week for each category within in my topic. I think that’s very manageable, and will work well in terms of building up the entire topic as a whole.

My question for you is: are the artist date ideas still piquing your interest, or would you rather see more tutorials? Are you happy with the mix of everything as it stands, or would you like to see more content in any particular category? Are the art journal prompts working in your favor, or would you rather see something more complex?

My readers are my rocks, so how this topic is built based on your desires and needs is important to me. You can reply directly to this blog post, or you can send me an email through here. Either way, you will be heard and your comments, questions, and concerns will all be taken into consideration. I’m always happy to receive content requests, so please keep those coming!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Years ago, I had a rubber stamp fetish. I wasn’t the type who had a large collection of stamps, but I was the type who used what I had A LOT. There was something about the addition of stamping to cards, letters, journal pages, art journal pages, and other work that seemed to speak to me in ways other media couldn’t.

I was looking through stamps on a site a friend of mine just suggested to me, and drooling over the variety. I could clearly envision how I would incorporate nearly all of these stamped images in work I’ve wanted to create for quite some time. I wish I had come across this site before my birthday because my wish list is rapidly growing . . . not only in the stamp section. J

So, it looks like I’ll be testing the waters again with rubber-stamping. I love the types that have text, vintage elements, and postage themes. I have one stamp that I received from a mail artist friend about four years ago that I use ALL the time and I would love more similar to that one, so my eyes have been peeled!

What type of art supply have you used quite a bit in the past that you would like to revisit?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

. . . I couldn’t believe the prices of all the different things I had been dreaming of owning one day. The store we went to, which shall remain nameless, was one of my favorite spots years ago because they had great prices and the clearances were out of this world. I was deeply disappointed when I visited there last night. It’s been about five or six years since I’ve been into that particular store because it used to be quite a distance from us, but they’ve recently opened another closer to where we live. Not that I’ll be back in there anytime soon, mind you.

I did manage to find a few treasures:

• Walnut in spray (which I managed to get for free with a coupon, but I’m still not quite sure how that happened)
• Some mini-alpha stamps
• A black in pad (mine finally dried out after eleven years of use!)
• Some postage themed stickers (I wanted some postage theme stamps, but I almost croaked when I saw the prices on them)
• A vile of glitter (I was going to choose mica or diamond dust, but again, nearly croaked at he price)

There are two mail-order catalogs containing all of the delights I wish to partake, so I’ll bed using them as a means of supply searching and birthday indulging from now on. I think that’s what I’ll do today because my fiancé kept saying, “this is ALL you want for your birthday?” I explained the pricing issues and he couldn’t wrap his mind around this issue, either. It’s strange how these catalogs can be SO much cheaper than walking through the stores. What an eye-opener!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Talking about mail art has been on my tongue quite a bit over the past years, but rarely do I come across any of the mail artists I used to collaborate with. We still travel in the same social networking circles, but the topic never seems to come up between us . . . until recently. One of them sparked a conversation with a choice few of us, and it’s made me yearn for those days again.

It was one of those addictions similar to what some go through about text messaging and visiting forums. Mine was seeing who had new mail art projects posted, and which ones I wanted to sign up for. I couldn’t begin my morning routine without sipping coffee and signing up for mail art projects (or starting my own) on a daily basis. My art “studio” was constantly active with art journals, decos, ATCs, altered books, handmade envelopes, altered post cards, and mini-shrines.

This leaves me with the question . . . why do I need to be part of something in order to keep myself creative on a daily basis. Why can’t I just be an artist for myself . . . without the deadlines, guidelines, and themes set up by someone else? These questions may not be answered anytime soon, but I’m sure they will be eventually. I will get to the point of personal creation. My work will be important, with or without the stamp.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I had high hopes for how I would spend my birthday. I decided to take the day off from work (even though I still “snuck” on to the computer and did SOME work), and spend the day doing things I enjoy. I bought a few magazines, I bought a container of my favorite coffee, and I got out my art journal.

Then . . . I fell asleep!!!!! How could I let this happen?! This was a PLANNED day off! What happened?!!?? I didn’t sleep the entire day away, but this nap did eat up a little over two hours. I woke up about an hour before the kids returned home from school, and then I did a bunch of activities with them (because I’m usually still working for at least an hour and half after they get home – it was a nice surprise for them).

I was so frustrated. I was so mad at myself. I was so irritated . . . until . . . I remembered it’s a long weekend and everyone (including my fiancé because he has a side job he has to do) will be away. I’ve made plans for a belated birthday celebration on Saturday with my fiancé, but I have opportunities to connect with my creative self on Sunday. I think I see more planned days off in my near future. I have to do these things for myself in an effort to maintain my new routine of self-care. I see an artist’s date in the making!!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

In an effort to find out if “I’m alone” in many of the artistic challenges I’ve been facing lately, as well as some writing challenges, I found a website where the questions and answers asked are the bread and butter of the whole operation. Users post questions, other users answer them, and so on. It’s been a tremendous resource so far.

I know I’m not alone in the “grand scheme of things” when it comes to these challenges. I am very much alone in my real life, though. I don’t know any writers or artists in my real life, so it’s difficult to go from day to day without verbal conversations surrounding these interests and careers. I do have conversations about this online, though. However, it doesn’t carry the same weight (or a sense of validation) as a person to person conversation carries. I don’t know how to solve this. I attempt conversations with members of my household, but it’s usually dropped and replaced with something that falls more into their interests. This is no fault of theirs . . . it’s just the way it is.

Do you have this challenge?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I’m working on a letter to a friend of mine in Washington, and then I’ll be starting another letter to my friend who just moved. This is such a calming, and wonderful experience. The ability to bring a bit of art into these letters has been helpful, as well. I’ve been trying to be “artistic” on a weekly basis and, eventually, on a daily basis.

Speaking of art, I’m going to be adding more content to my Mixed Media Arts topic more often as well. My goal is to fill each of the categories with a lot more reviews, tutorials, biographies, and techniques. There is already a lot of material there, but there’s so much room for growth. Why not make it happen now? What have I been waiting for?

So, today is a mix of personal writing and professional writing. In addition to the topic writing, I have a number of other assignments for other websites in the works. These assignments have to do with art, as well, but on a different level (home improvement, decorating, design, etc.). I love writing about diverse topics that still relate to each other loosely. J

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Okay, so I couldn’t wait to read my new book and sat down last night after supper and cracked it open. It’s a quick read, which is nice for those of us who don’t have a lot of time to sit and enjoy books. (I’m talking about Return to Fairyopolis for those of you who have absolutely no idea what I’m talking about.)

I read through all the text, and then I read through it again to enjoy all the little inserts the book contains. All the while, I was thinking about my art journal and the two people I’ve been exchanging letters with. Thoughts about making the letters more interesting beyond the visual aspects of writing and illustrated letter floated through my mind. Thoughts about how to put my tea-stained journal to use flowed in and out of my mind.

So, today I’m going to take some time to myself to partake in some letter writing and some art journaling. I have a letter started to a friend of mine in Washington already, so I’ll finish that. I’m going to work in the tea-stained journal that I’ve left neglected for way too long. I’m going to start another letter, as well. I feel so inspired to create right now, so I’m not going to ignore it any longer. It’s a new day, and a new artistic opportunity. I’m going to take advantage of this while I can.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Okay, okay - #1: I shouldn’t be opening my birthday gifts early (my birthday is January 14^th) and, #2: I know it’s weird to buy myself a birthday gift. I did it anyway! Like I was saying to a friend of mine on the phone a few weeks ago, “I know that’s not what I’m supposed to do . . . I never do what I’m “supposed” to do.” Well, in cases like these I don’t anyway. J

You’re wondering what I purchased myself, aren’t you? I ordered Return to Fairyopolis from Amazon.com the other night when I was ordering a “how to” book (actually, it was an idiot’s guide, but we’re not keeping score here) for my fiancé. I thought about asking for it from him, but he hates bookstores with a passion . . . and hates getting on this computer even more.

I solved that problem and now it’s in my hands! I can’t wait to spend some time with this book, and Fairyopolis: A Flower Fairy’s Journal (I received this from my mother for Christmas) this weekend. I find both of these books very inspiring and, each time I look through them, my art journal becomes FAR more interesting. I, of course, am not journaling about fairies, but I am being a lot more visual about my own interests. I love this!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I don’t know what my problem is, but I can’t stop thinking about creating art projects from the coloring books I have stored away in the basement. All the coloring books my children stopped showing interest in have made their way into a banana box, and I still have stacks of these things to go through.

I don’t like throwing them away for many reasons:

• We have kids visiting all the time that these coloring books are age appropriate for.
• They are great “bases” when we’re working on glue or paint projects and we don’t have a surface to work on.
• They’re great for making art projects from!

There’s been a long running list going through my mind ever since fall. I don’t know why. (could be because that’s when I started stowing them away…anyway…) I want to:

• Turn them into altered books
• Gesso over pages and turn them into art journals
• Tear out pages to cut up for mixed media paintings, ACTs, art journal work, and altered book work

Those are just some of the ideas that have been running endlessly through this little mind of mine. I’m going to start working on these projects with my kids. It will teach them about recycling, too! And, it will also teach them that even when it seems like they’ve grown out of something . . . that may not necessarily be true!

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

It seems I’ve gotten the “art bug” again because I’ve been writing about art related topics for my other writing gigs . . . not just for my topic on this site. I know there’s nothing wrong with this and that’s not why I’m bringing it up. I’m bringing it up because I think my “muse” is trying to tell me something . . .

“You should be creating art, not just writing about how to create art.”

There’s no school today because it’s snowing really hard outside, so this is a perfect opportunity to work on art projects with my children. I just wrote about how to use Christmas things in art projects for two different sites, including this one, so I think I’m going to use that as the foundation for art creation with the kids today. There’s a lot of Christmas themed activity books and Christmas themed coloring books around here, as well as Christmas cards . . . so we can work on art projects all day!

Is your muse trying to tell you something? How often do you listen to your muse? Is it a habit for you to ignore your muse?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

Organization has been a huge hiccup in this “mixed media artist’s” life. (I quote it because, honestly, I don’t feel like I’m truly an artist these days.) Most people who know me would think this a weird phenomenon because, usually, I’m obsessive compulsive about organization. It can’t be helped . . . it’s hard wired into my being.

At least . . . it used to be hard wired into my being.

The majority of my home is pretty well organized the way it needs to be to sustain functionality and efficiency. However, when it comes to art supplies, there’s no rhyme or reason to anything. The sad thing about this reality is that it’s not just my supplies . . . the kids have fallen into this mystical void of disorganization.

How did this happen?

I spiraled out of control the third time I had to move my creative space. The previous two times I moved everything, it was easy to find homes for all my materials. This third time, though, I was burned out from transferring everything out of one space and into another . . . and trying to work without power, heat, or walls. Yeah, it’s not fun.

These problems will be solved, though, because that’s what we do.

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I need to figure out how to make my work area that’s in my living room multi-functional. It already is, per se, because I work here and I manage the household finances here. I also work on school related tasks for the kids here. So, this area of the home really is multi-functional already . . . but I need it to take on one additional task . . .

I want to work on art here, too.

I have a rather large desk top, but it’s full most of the time. I can take my laptop off the desktop and put in on another shelf, but it’s hooked up to my printer and phone line (yes, I know, dinosaur ages), so it’s not convenient to do so each time I want to create. There’s also a large calendar blotter thing, many notebooks, printed research, and files spread out at any given time.

My solution?

I’m thinking about bringing my giant clipboard thing (that’s what it looks like – it has two large clipboard clips on one edge, and a handle along another edge) and slide it behind my desk. Each time I want to create, I can slide that “thing” out and get to work. It fits nicely on a tabletop easel, as well as any other surface (including the floor!). I have a portable tabletop easel that will fit behind my desk, as well.

Problem solved!

Now, I just need to get my rear in gear and make all of these things accessible. I’m looking forward to having a room to work in again, but that goal seems to be falling further and further down the list of things to do around here. I’m patient, so that doesn’t really bother me . . . until I become impatient, that is. J

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I know, I know . . . is said I would share my artistic goals for this year with all of you. I know I said I would share with you what I intend to accomplish . . . or at least what I hope I accomplish. What’s my problem?

I’m afraid of making these goals concrete.

Why? Well, if I broadcast my goals to all of you then I’ll be held accountable. Typically, this works very well for me. What’s my problem now? I’m afraid that if I make my goals public, and I don’t accomplish some or all of them . . . that it’ll cause another block.

I’ve managed to work through my blocks in the past, but it’s gotten more and more difficult each time one creeps up. I don’t know why it’s easier for me to council others through their blocks then it is to resolve my own. As a result, I’m really gun-shy about the potential for one to come up again.

It’s silly, isn’t it? It’s terrible that I’m thinking it would be easier this way and, trust me, this feeling won’t last. Blogging about it on here is certainly going to help. What else is helpful is hearing from my readers. What do you think about what I just wrote here? Have you experienced something similar? Are you afraid of artist’s block looming on your horizon?

Posted by Jenn Greenleaf

I have a number of projects to finish today, including working in my tea stained journal. I created this art journal quite some time ago and have been itching to work in it ever since. Writing letters to a friend of mine recently has brought out the inspiration I desperately needed to work on projects like these again.

It interests me how, even though the letters I was writing had nothing to do with art journaling, I still felt this incredible urge to create in mine. I’m thankful she answered my desire to write handwritten letters again. I love writing in my paper “text only” journal and was hoping that kind of writing would inspire me to create art . . . but there’s something about a handwritten letter that pushes inspiration a bit further for me.

I’m going to be getting my Mixed Media Arts topic out of the shadows (it retreats there quite often, I’ve noticed) this month. If there are tutorials or specific information you would like to read about mixed media art, feel free to send me a message or comment on this blog post.