Art Updates

Not my most favorite drawing, but its good to know where you started

My favorite drawing so far. This one is going to remind me of our time here in Virgina.

DVD cover template from Graphic Design

The insert for the DVD cover art

This are some recent things I have been doing for my classes this semester. It has been a lot of fun learning about the basics and fundamentals of design.

Sorry, if I abandoned the "Love Me" campaign. The end of school year has been a doozy. Perhaps I'll start up the challenge in July.

Happy Summer!

Love Me challenge; Day 4, A person who loves me

As I thought about this,

I thought of my husband.

Of course,

he loves me,

but eventually, 

my thoughts were led

to HIM.

My Father in Heaven!

There is no one who 

has loved me more than Him.

He spared his one and only

begotten Son.

He who has lived.

He who has sacrificed

He who loves ME endlessly.

Forever and ever.

And ever.

I'm still waiting for this to be available in print. 
My favorite images of Christ are from Yongsung Kim.

Love Me Challenge; Day 3, Words that describes YOU

Today I feel positively effervescent!

adjective

1. effervescing; bubbling.

2. vivacious; gay; lively; sparkling.

I've been speaking positively about myself

by saying this sentence out loud with

a new, happy adjective everyday.

This wonderful list sits in my planner and I go down 

the list and of new happy word each day.

Read more about why you should be more
mindful of our words and stay positively INSPIRED.

I just came across this photo of a Young Women
activity that reminded me of personal descriptive words.

The individual would sit and the others would

write descriptive words about us.

There were a few "inside jokes"
but I was reminded of
the characteristics that people value 
in me.    

Love Me Challenge; Day 2, A photo of you

C, can you pick a photo
where you think I am beautiful?

"Oh, I like this one!"

Why do you think I am beautiful in this photo?

"It just has you.  And us! And you look happy! 
And that must be a tear of joy in my eye! " 

"Love Me" Challenge

My insecurities are getting to the best of me. I complain everyday about my mommy tummy. Everyday. Single. Day. I'm sure my husband is exhausted. I don't want my kids to have a disdain for their body so why am I doing it towards mine. I appreciate and love the kids that were formed in this belly of mine. But the struggle is real. I wanted to find a "love me" challenge and I came across this past February challenge via Pinterest. Taking on the challenge TODAY.

So, WHY ARE YOU DOING LOVE ME?

I want to value and appreciate who I am from within. I want to learn to love the inner beauty of me more than the elements of physical beauty. The most genuine and sincere hearts are the truly the hearts of some individuals that just shine! I feel like I let my physical beauty shine more than my heart. 

I didn't like this photo because my first thought was, "I hate how big my arms look. The fat side of my face! Why do I wear t-shirts?!" I'm posting it because my son doesn't care what I looked like. He loves me regardless of what I think my flaws are. He thinks I am awesome because I wore a Star Wars t-shirt. We were at Disneyworld and I was worrying about how I looked. My husband has this as his screensaver on his phone. My son and husband loved this moment so why can't I.

Introduction to Drawing

Thumbnail Sketch

Learning about negative and positive space

Blind contour of hand

Contour Sketches of Shoe 1

Contour Sketches of Shoe 2

I recently switched from Special Education to Graphic Communications. We discussed the difficulty of teacher certification from state-to-state. With plans to move every 2-3 years, I've decided to switch tracks and doing something more applicable.

These drawings are from Week 1 of my Introduction to Drawing class. I love playing on Adobe Illustrator and InDesign but drawing is not forte. However, I am learning a lot of the basics of art foundation. It has been my favorite class so far.

It's important to know where you once were to see what can you change in the future. I am grateful that I can acquire an education and learn new things everyday.

Illustrated Faith

As I approach my 30th birthday in six months (yes, I'm counting down), I thought about how I wanted to celebrated the last year of my 20's. I thought of doing a "Random Act of Kindness" mission or writing a letter about my 20's and what I learned in my youth. But I believe the Spirit guided me and has prompted me read my scriptures more. Because isn't that where all kindness begins?

I have never been the best scriptorian ever. I love the teaching and gospels of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! But I prefer listening to hours of conference talks by our modern day prophets or watching mormon messages videos or listening to LDS hymns or streaming Mormon channel... you get the point.

Some different ways I have studied the scriptures:

- During our first few years of marraige, my husband and I enrolled in an institute class as a young married couple to learn the Book of Mormon. I remembering grumbling some nights about it, but I understand that there was accountability for us. We would send our responses to a local seminary institute teacher every other night and he would respond back. He was impressed that we wanted to take these classes. He rarely saw couples taking classes.

- The Book of Mormon institute manual  has been a great friend.

- The last two years, I heavily relied on the Red Headed Hostesses website. If you have never used her website, it is absolutely wonderful. I would use a lot of her visuals for Young Women lessons. Right now, I'm have been working on the "Come Unto Christ" workbook that came out in 2014.

MY SCRIPTURE MISSION

"You are loved" by Tiffany Zajas

After browsing some Project Life ideas, I came across "Illustrated Faith" started up by Shanna Noel and other blogging creative gurus and I knew this was how I wanted to study scriptures! I knew I needed to find scriputres that I allowed me to journal and write my faith in the margines.

I have searched high and low for a wide margin Book of Mormon. I came across this download by Brad Jackman. I uploaded it to my USB and took it to the printers and the price was going to be $80 bucks. Yikes! Then I thought I would print the pages on my printer and illustrate the pages a few pages at a time. Yeah, my printer settings are not nice.

Then we moved.

Last week, we had a lesson in Relief Society about the blessings of the scriptures. It inspired me to pursue the need for a wide margin Book of Mormon.

Grace by Shanna Noel

 Alas, I came across lulu's printing website and made a book which cost me $20 versus $80. I uploaded Brad Jackman's wide margin PDF and picked and choose the cover. I can't wait for the book to get here for me to work on. I look forward to doing this with the other standard works as well.

In the meantime, I have downloaded David J. Ridges scriptures made easier to help me understand my scriptures more. I still plan on highlighting and using my personal scriptures as well. I have added tabs to my personal scriptures by using some washi fabric tape (the picture above). The last time I updated those tabs, I was in high school and used clear tape. I'm also excited to CREATE something for Him, about Him, and that generates my love for HIM!

Anyways, I'm sorry for the long details. I'm just ecstatic everything has come into place about how to go about studying scriptures for me. I will do my best to share my "illustrated faith" in the days or months to come.

How do you study the scriptures? Please feel to share.

Plug in "illustrated faith" in Pinterest and you will see some amazing scripture testimony!

FEB & MAR TM

February/March Tender Mercies

* Purging household items.
* Learning the Waltz with B at our church ward activity.

* Spending more time with B. We had lots of lunch dates with each other which included Wich Wich and Ban Moon ( a Lao- Thai) place.

* Celebrating our 5th move. 

* Being able to write letters of love, appreciation and gratitude for the Young Women in my church and to the leaders I served with.
* Recieving a candy poster, anchor jewelry from amazing YW and leaders.

* Sharing and expressing my testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on multiple accounts.

* Saying goodbye to our first home.

* Spending time with Mike (pop pop). He drove with us to Orlando from Texas.

* A surprise (ok not really a surprise) trip to Disneyworld.

Bucketlist Additions

*Go on more diverse date nights with B, other than a dinner and movie. We had so.much learning the waltz in Feb. I want to try different things.

* More acts of love for husband.

* Host a group couple date.

* Boost my physical activity level.

* Continue with gratitude journal.

* 30 Minute math sessions on Khan Academy hopefully evolving to 46 mins than 60 mins.

* Start researching next duty station.

* Start researching adoption agencies.

* Blog once a week on Sundays.

* DIY furniture.

Let it be unique for yourself

"Sunshine" Watercolor by C

January has been filled with various forms of reading, art-making, scrapbooking and a whole lotta of celebrating. Last week, we traveled to see B graduate Navy Officer school! Hallelujah! The last seven days were spent flying into Austin and Charlotte and then driving through New York, West Virigina, Virigina, Maryland, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee and returning home to Texas. Unfortunately, we all got sick along the way. It started out with C, then D, and of course, hit me last.

After my declaration of wanting to create more this year, I plotted/decided/pursued and dreamed of too many ventures. I started with basic watercolors techniques by checking out every book on watercolor at the local library. I semi-started Project life again! I wanted to include journaling too. I started looking at how to add mixed-media to the mix, and then Pinterest. Yes, pinterest. The mother of overload! How was I going to keep myself sane by not starting 100 new projects?

I finally saw an amazing mini journal idea on Studio Calico's community member gallery and I knew this is what I want to do! It's pretty much a smash book of all my creative pursuits and random ephemera. Euphoria!

I can't wait to show you January's collective album.

Celebrating 2014

Celebrating 2014

I ran a color run. I have always wanted to do one.

We bought our first HOME!

The husband became a Navy officer.

We visited Austin and San Antonio.

I started a new waitressing job 

and had many late night karoake sesh 

with co-workers (Peggy Lee and 

Nancy Sinatra are my favorites).

Aunt K moved in with us (and moved out

in December).

C was in the local production of

the Nutcracker. 

D started Kindergarten.

I decided an A-line cut is the hairstyle for me.

Pixie cut was too short. Lesson learned.

I decided to withdraw from my academic studies

to take care of the needs of our family.

Again, pending. Sigh.

We endured a long three months without B.

Boy, this was hard for me!

I am the 1st counselor in the Young Women's

Presidency. So many spiritual moments with

amazing Young Women.

BUT 2015 already feels good!

I started painting with water colors.

My Project Life album for 2013 & 2014 

is almost done.

Organized my bathroom and kitchen 

drawers. Every single one of those drawers
are organized.

Two more moves in the 2015 year.

B will be home mid-January!

Spreading Good Cheer

I've established that 2015 is about creating more and making art. But I also want to encompass more kindness, cheer, and COLOR. I want more color in my life. Colors that do not just represent said blue, white, black, but expand on emotions and conviction and love and gratitude-- you get it. We do not have to wait until a new year occurs to be more kind. It starts today. It can start now. 

I love the idea of passalong cards. This was another collaborated work with my children. All you need are white cards, paint brushes, party poppers, markers (I used a chalk marker which isn't listed), an assortment of washi tape, acrylic paints, and a work place for a mess.

And paint away.

These are some of the combinations we made. The ends will curl after drying. I used a heavy book to press down to keep it flat. Use your washi tape to adhere the popper to card and write your message. I went back with a black marker and paint to add more definition for the "Happy New Year" lettering. Stick in a basket, bag, purse and pass the cards to strangers, friends, er, strangers. We passed them out yesterday while at the grocery store.

I think these would be a great idea for any season or holiday or just to spread a happy message. I hope that your resolutions have been drafted for 2015. I do not think it is cliche to make goals or plans or any endeavor of any sort. I am grateful to have the opportunity to reflect on what changes occurred and what downfalls helped me grow. Happy New Year's Eve.

100 Favorites: Black & White Doodle Art

This was a simple and fun activity. I was inspired by this simple art prompt where one writes down "100 things I love" page. I used a plain white 8 x 10 paper and black penmate pen.

During the process, my daughter joined me in making her own. The difficult thing with pursuing an art medium is not to expect perfection and letting the quirks reveal themselves. My daughter wanted to throw hers away but I insistently told her that there are no mistakes and to just enjoy the process.

This will be a great and positive reminder of who we are and what we love.

Art Journal Inspiration

 

[Alisa Burke]

Creating in 2015

 

2014 was filled with more flops and flips and backward-steps than I can account for. Instead of pushing forward with goals, I let the world absorbed me. I withdrew from my current academic studies. My husband went away for three months. I let self-doubt, temptation, and advocates of every kind consume me. Perhaps, it wasn't as drastic as I'm painting, but I really let my faith in Him leave me. It wasn't until my husband's recent visit during Christmas break that I realize I hard I fell, how strongly convicted I was of my own pride. Instead of filling you in with abstract tales and sordid details, I just want to make a declaration to live more creatively in 2015. 

Over the weekend, I found myself picking up a journal and wanting to write more, but not just writing, but creating, longing for the artist to come out. Today, I found myself walking around the art isles in Michael's for hours. I found myself reading about watercolors, acrylics, and gesso (how to use it, how to apply it, what is it), applications, and numerous art techniques. I haven't created anything the last few years, but as the digital age is here to stay, I found myself wanting to create something more concrete and with my hands.

Last year, I picked up Project Life and was determined to fill the album. However, as many of my projects go, the Project Life endeavor  dissolved. I want to start explore more with mixed art mediums specifically with art journals. I need a process to display my heart.

I do not know who blogs anymore. But if you are here, reading this little space today, just know that I am forging ahead with some creativity this upcoming year.

I'm excited, 2015, it is going to be great.

[Inspirational Quote from Chatting With Sky]

Monster Truck Rally

READ HERE.

Stitch Fix

I received my first Stich Fix after a friend referred the monthly subscription to me. She sent me a message and said, "This is you, Khinna, try it out." Basically, it's a monthly subscription for clothing. You create a personal profile. A stylist will review it and send you clothing or jewelry particular to the profile you created. I read the reviews prior to trying it out. I did like that every customer received unique items, so I thought it wouldn't hurt to try.

You pay $20 towards the styling fee and it goes towards your purchase. A box is mailed to you, open it and style with other clothing you own. If you don't like it, you send it back. If you keep it, you pay for price. If you want all five pieces, there is a 25% discount.




Ark & Co Sterling Belted Minidress $68
Pros: I love the stripes. I love that the dress had 3 quarter sleeves. I love the feel of the fabric on this dress. It felt higher quality. It's a great and versatile piece.
Cons: This dress was bit snug for me. You can see where it puckers below the breast line. It's too short and thus makes me feel a bit juvenile. You can see that I had to wear it with a skirt extender. Sorry, I don't want to bend over without revealing everything to those around me.
Verdict: Not for me. I really prefer dresses with a hemline that is already long. I don't like to fuss with a skirt extender or even like to wear them. If this dress was longer, it would have a classic silhouette that I look for.



Yumi Wilhinina Polka Dot Belted Skater Dress $98
Pros: This dress fit much better than the Sterling dress. I love the longer sleeves. I love polka dots. You can ask anyone?
Cons: I really just wish it was longer. It could probably work with a nude skirt extender. The price was also a major factor.
Verdict: Again, too short. Not for me. The cost.




Mysteree Gabrie Mixed Print Sheer Top $68
Pros: I love the feel and print of this blouse as soon as I pulled it out. I love the contrasting prints. It was sheer, so I wore a tee underneath. The fit was perfect. LOVED THIS. Perfect for Texas weather right now.
Con: There wasn't anything wrong except the cost of the shirt. I just couldn't stomach spending that much on the shirt. I have similar shirts with the same blousy sheer texture and I did not spend $70 dollars on them.
Verdict: Sadly, this one had to go back.



Dylan and Rose, Ruth Cross-Front Side-Ruch Top $48
I actually didn't care for this top while looking at it or trying it on. Now that I am looking at myself in picture form, the side-ruche is brilliantly hiding trouble spots.
Pro: Side-Ruche details. Stretchy. Versatile. Breathable.
Con: Black, I don't need anymore black in my wardrobe. More comfy in a size medium.
Verdict: No more black for me.

Under Skies, Miah Short Sleeve Embroidered Hem Top $48

[Pictures to come] 

When I first took this out of the box I honestly though this is not me at all. What was my stylist thinking? However, I did check a box that said to add more bohemian in my wardrobe. There is card that suggest we try everything on. What do you know? Loved it! Pretty transition into Fall piece. Plus, I had to buy something so my $20 dollars didn't go to waste.

Pro: Comfortable. Soft fabric material. Love the detail.

Con: Too hot for the Texas whether now

OVERALL STITCH FIX Experience

I really did enjoy getting a box full of clothes. Who wouldn't? Each article of clothing fit my body proportion and was comfortable. I really don't like trying clothing on at retail stores. I will have to change my top size to medium to see if this will allow more breathing room. The major drawback are the prices. If you are a bargain hunter, Stitch Fix is not for you. I like a mix of affordable and high end (which I mostly get off 40%). I understand a company has to make money, and Stitch Fix probably does through the high mark retail mark up.

Did I think the stylist listened to me? My stylist did a great job finding things that worked for me and finding something I know I would have ignored if I saw it in a store. I asked for professional business casual pieces and the Gabrie top would have been great. I have read that boxes do get better as they send you more. Overall, I had a great first Stitch Fix experience, but I won't be doing this monthly, because it would be costly for me. Every once in a while, maybe.

I love for you to try it out and let me know. Love to hear about it.
Link Stitch Fix through here (referral credit for me). 

---Khinna

Collage Wall

Collage Wall
Read here.

Staple Pieces

My style has transitioned a lot over the past few years. My style has definitely become more business casual. As I prepare to re-enter the workforce in a year, I find that I gravitate towards to a lot of preppy/professional styles such as trousers, pencil skirts, modern business wear and so forth.

A few staples I'm on the lookout to add to my closet; a black and white stripe tee, a houndstooth knee-length pencil skirt, and pair of leopard flats. I haven't found a black and white stripe tee that I love and I'm still wondering if I even like stripes on me (stripes make you look wider, I always feel wider when I wear them).

I like/love/enjoy wearing layers, but I am finding it hard to wear in this Texas heat. I could pull off wearing long-sleeves in Georgia, but if I dare put one on here I'm sweating really crazily. I can't wait for cool weather to come back.

I really love this blog and how she puts her clothing pieces together. I want to stray away from being matchy-matchy. Of course, I would never have her clothing budget. I'm going to be a school teacher! But she's a source of inspiration. I haven't bought anything full price in a long time and shop 40% sales all the time.

What are you hoping to add to your wardrobe this Fall?

[Image Credit: Suburban Faux Pas]
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A New Addition.

Things We Do.

End of July Updates

Dancing Duo

Away We Go (in Austin)

Away We Go (in San Antonio)