Why Bother?

So, something has just occurred to me...It's a little embarrassing, I should have noticed sooner. I have this blog, but I also have a Tumblr, which can actually be used as a blog, and not just re-posting things! So, I'm making the decision to create less work for myself.

This blog will still be here, if anyone finds it, and wants to read through old entries. However, all of my new posts will be done on Tumblr. I'm going to -try- to post more original content like photography and that sort of thing, as well.

Thanks for following, and I'll see you on Tumblr!

http://www.tumblr.com/blog/jenicsaco

Midnight Launch!

The time has come! Art With A Porpoise is finally here! I've been fighting the urge to launch this early, because I'm actually incredibly excited about this. I'll be the first to say that I have a long ways to go before I feel my art is anything really special, but I'm working on it. I do love working on art, and I can only get better. I'm also always open to suggestion, so if anyone has any suggestions for things I should add to my shop, or constructive criticism, let me hear it!

 What's in a name? Well, I sell art and photography...so that bit's self explanatory. Porpoise? A play on words...So, "Art with a Purpose". Purpose, porpoise - Get it? Ha? My porpoise is to raise money for myself of course, as well as donations and awareness for various charities, and the issues that surround them. I started this website because I felt I needed more structure for the online presence I'm trying to create. The reason I'm doing -that- is obviously to bring in a little more money. I'm currently trying to save every penny so my fiance can afford a honeymoon this October, and after that, so save for a home and a child. Without tooting my own horn too much, I like to be generous. This brings my charities into play. As I've got written in a few places, I'm donating 10% of my total sales to one of my charities at the end of each month. Each of my charities means something special to me, and this way I'm able to give at least a little to them.

 This big change includes new pages and locations for many of my external lurking areas, or simply updating the names. There is one that's a small thorn in my side though. RedBubble (I love it to bits, really) won't let me change my username, hence the name of the shop. I'd rather not create a new shop there either, as I already have sales, and plenty of product up. I've changed the avatar, but it shall forever been known as BahariHaunt on their server. I will however, still refer to it as my Art With A Porpoise (AWAP) RedBubble shop.

 I think that about wraps it up here, thanks for reading, and tagging along on my little journey!

 All my love,
 ~Jenicsaco

It's hard to say goodbye...

I'm not really sure how to start this post off, but this is more something for myself, something I feel I need to work through. I find that writing things out generally the best way to deal with most things. I find myself missing a certain group of people, even though I haven't been in that group for a few years now. I'm going to throw out a little background information, in case anyone reads this, and wonders what I'm talking about. In the World of Warcraft, people can form groups or clubs, called Guilds. The guild I was in was called the Zandalari. We roleplayed our trolls together, and played the game content together. It was heaps of fun, and I began to consider this group honest-to-goodness family. I'd do anything for these guys. I loved them all. I recall plenty of nights when I'd stay up until one in the morning playing and chatting with some of them. I ended up dating one of them. It was a blast, even if it didn't work out in the end. We held a good friendship for a while after until we finally drifted apart, after the guild itself had finally fallen apart. I wish we hadn't parted ways though, and I'm going to try and track this guy down. I miss that friendship. I also fell in love with another member of the guild, despite fighting that tooth and nail. This actually took place before dating the previously mentioned guild-mate. To be honest, finally giving in and admitting those feelings was a great thing to happen. It made me realize that I was rather unhappy in a relationship that I was currently in. I had no desire to pursue the new love, but it put things into perspective for me. Now thanks to that, I'm living a much happier life, and getting married soon! Byron, if by some strange coincidence you read this, thank you so very much. I'll never forget you (thanks to the tattoo you designed for me. ;) ). Thank you to everyone, in the Zandalari, really. Thank you for giving me a sense of belonging, for giving me a sense of worth. I had some of the best times with you guys, and it is one of my deepest regrets that I lost contact with everyone. I have next to no way of reaching out to anyone now, but to post this to our old forum. jenicsaco@gmail.com, @Jenicsaco, facebook.com/jenicsaco <- Find me! I miss you! I keep thinking about this group so often, and every time that I do, I feel like there's a huge part of me missing. I've spent the last few weeks randomly feeling hollow and helpless. It's ridiculous, and I know that I just need to move on somehow. So, this must be my final goodbye. I keep checking the forum, to see if anyone has posted in the chat-box. Once in a blue moon, a new one pops up, but it's rare. I can't keep doing this....So Zandalari, this is it. I love and adore you guys, but I need to move forward. If anyone wants to catch up, I welcome you back into my life, whole heartedly. But I can't keep looking back, because it's simply too hard. I have a lot to look forward to, and right now, forward is the only direction in which I can allow my self to look towards. Goodbye, Zandalari. Love you always, Mun'tasi.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Que the obligatory "reflection" post. This will likely be short, don't worry.

2012 was a fairly eventful year for me, when I really think out it.  I did suffer a few losses and heartache (the major one for me being the family dog, Tira). It's still weird to go to my parents' house, and not hear her excited barks and hear her nails clattering on the floor by the door as I walk up the steps. I can't help but get a little choked up, even now, thinking about it.

I stood by my best friend as she got married, celebrated, and share some pretty great memories with her, and my other best friends. My reign of Maid of Honor ended, and I'd like to think I did a fairly good job. I planned and Engagement Party, Bridal Shower, and a Bachelorette. They all worked out well, and I'm pleased as punch!

My fiance and I moved into an apartment that's has some ups and downs, together just the two of us, for the first time. We also welcomed a new member into our family shortly after, Monster, Scott's dad's kitty. He adapted to indoor life better than we could have hoped for, and has been amazing. I can't imagine coming home and not seeing him there to greet me now.

After five years, I finally moved to a new department, and thus far am loving it. I'm learning new skills, meeting plenty of new people. I couldn't be more excited for this change. 

As time winds down, more wedding planning for my own wedding was needed, and we managed to book a nice venue, and I went for my first round of wedding dress shopping.

We met with a financial planner recently as well, and with his help next year, will get our crazy financial situation under control. 

2013 of course, will be jam packed with more wedding work and planning. Soon begins the traditional wedding diets, so that we can look fabulous on our big day. We're getting married in under ten months now!

I hope to lead a more structured life as well, planning and keeping myself and fiance well organized.

Bahari Haunt will be seeing the release of monthly art collections. Cute, simple prints and merchandise. I will also be stepping up on my commissions. 

I also aim to see friends more often, maybe hosting some movie and/or game nights in my home. Once per month would be lovely. I love my friends, and I really don't think we see each other enough.On a similar note, I need to spend more quality time with my husband-to-be, as while I see him most evenings, and usually  full day a week, it just doesn't seem like enough. I think a monthly date night may be in order.

I'm pretty sure I say this every year, but I am seriously determined to make 2013 the best year yet. Bettering myself, my relationships, and I hope to maybe even get my foot in the door for a more career oriented position. I've got plenty of goals and dreams, and part-time won't get me there.

Happy New Year (and if you missed it, Merry Christmas!), my friends!
~Jenicsaco

Christmas Shouldn't Be Offensive

I recently read something where someone was greatly offended by a Christmas movie they watched, because they weren't Christian. This movie, had no religious connotations whatsoever, really. Okay, it was Polar Express. You know, the 3D animated movie where a kid gets on a train to see Santa Claus. Not Jesus, not some big Christian birthday party, or what have you. 

I think I need to clarify that I'm not writing this to be offensive. While admittedly religion makes me uncomfortable, I'm becoming more tolerant. So, don't hate.

I can understand people disliking the over-commercialization of the holiday. I can understand not celebrating for religious reasons. I don't understand however, how some people can get so offended over something that isn't religious.

Not everyone who celebrates Christmas is Christian. I'm not, and it's my favorite time of year. The holiday has different meanings for a lot of people. For me, and I -think- many other people, the holiday is less about the birth of some guy named Jesus, and more about the 'spirit' of the season. The warmth, and joy. The giving (and to a small degree, receiving. I can't lie. ), the family and friends, spending time with all of your loved ones. It's a great excuse to gather everyone you love under one roof and just have a great time. Yes, I know you shouldn't need an excuse, but it's difficult to find a time when most people are even available for gatherings, now isn't it? That's what Christmas is to me, at least.

 I don't think religion should ever be flaunted, but since it is still a big part of the holiday for some people, I'll respect that. I don't have to like it, or really even approve of it, but I'll respect it all the same. So long as someone doesn't tell me I'm going to Hell for not sharing the same belief, we're cool. You keep your beliefs to yourself, and I'll do the same.

If anyone is interested in the origins of Christmas, Britannica has a nice, fairly short little post about it. Enjoy!
And yes, this is super early...but considering the content of this blog post, it feels appropriate.
http://www.britannica.com/blogs/2011/12/origin-christmas-december/

I wish you all a safe and joyous holiday season! Enjoy the company of your friends and family, gifts that you give and receive, delicious food and treats. Revel in the beauty of the falling snow, if you're lucky enough to have it. And of course, stay safe!

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Joyous Kwanza , Happy Chanukah, 
~Jenicsaco

[Social Media] *Like*

I can't help but think of how lazy and impersonal we're becoming with the ride of social media. It's quite sad, actually, and I would like to make an effort to return to the old ways, even a little bit.

I've never been a fan of short-form. Abbreviations make me cringe...that's part of my crusade against a lack of respect in communication.

Anyhow, my reason for posting is this. I'm realizing that "Like" and "Favorite", and any other similar one-click thumbs-uppery is just incredibly lazy. In keeping with my "laziness is a lack of respect" view, simply clicking the 'Like' button is just kind of rude. True, I love it when people 'like' a post of mine. But I love comments even more! I want to know exactly what people are thinking, how they feel when they click. Exactly why did you click? Do you have anything to add?

It's kind of pathetic how lonely I feel when someone 'likes' a post, and leaves no comment. I'm just not worth the time of day? I'm sure that's not it, but I just can't help but feel a little empty inside.

I doubt many others feel this way, happy with their social lives...but, I'm making it a goal, from this point forward to take the time to leave a real comment on any post that I enjoy, or respond, or whatever the medium calls for.

I think the biggest issue I have in this respect is on DeviantArt. I work very hard on my art, and I frankly find it quite disrespectful for someone to simply click. 'Favorite' or 'Collect'. Please, let me know what I'm doing right! I appreciate the small token of love, but it really does me no favors.

I don't mean to sound harsh, I just wish people would be more respectful, and take the time to properly communicate with each other. This world and its technology has us distanced from each other, so disconnected. It's quite frightening!

Show your friends and family some textual love, and time! Next time you enjoy someones post, I encourage you to share a little with them in return. I can't imagine anyone who would dislike getting comments on their art, page, tweets, wall, whatever.

Keep spreading the love, my beauties!
~Jenicsaco

[Movies & Philosophy] End of the World?

So, I haven't been around much as I've been pretty darned sick. My apologies, if there's anyone out there that actually follows me. ;) I'm finally starting to think I may be getting better, which is fantastic news after almost a full week of misery and grossness. I'll spare you the details, don't worry.

Anyhow, there's one thing that's been on my mind a lot lately. The end of the world. Yeah, it's pretty dark. But, I can't stop thinking about it! A friend is writing a story revolving around that topic (which I can wait to read), some crazy people say the world will end this year, and I recently watched a related movie.

Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World

The same friend writing the story recommended this to me, and not being in the mood to do much but lounge around, it was the prefect time to watch this! Cuddled up with the fiance and hit the 'play' button. 

First off, I really enjoyed this movie. There's a lot of comedy in it, and I quite enjoy Steve Carell. He didn't play quite such an over-the-top character as he usually does, and it was good. I'm really terrible and writing synopsises...sinopsis? I can't without giving away everything, so I'll refrain. There are a lot of sweet, hopeful moments. There are also some sad ones. The movie ended, and my fiance and I sat in a moment or two of silence, tears rolling down our cheeks. 

The big reason I really enjoyed this movie was because it made me think. The world learns that the world is going to end in three weeks. What would I do in that situation? Would I try to carry on a normal life? Bite the bullet early? Quit everything and cram in as much adventure as possible? Spend time with loved ones? I would say a mix of the latter two, if my time were that short. Suffice to say, the world would more or less be chaos. 

What if it were farther in the future? Say, fifty years? The world still needs to function...food still needs to be produced, electricity, other essentials. Knowing our time was limited though, would most throw out any 'green' habits, or race to try to save it? I suppose it depends on the apocalypse. Still, there are so many variables to factor in, so many outcomes. So many ways one could react. One thing breaks my heart when I put myself in this situation, is that I wouldn't be able to have a child. My one big dream in life is to raise a kid.  Obviously, that would just be cruel, to bring a child into a world you know is doomed. 

Then again, that far in the future, what if they develop something that will save the planet by then? 

Ugh, deep thinking is not good for this sick gal...Anywho, this is just what I've been pondering fervently for the last week or two. What would you do if the world was going to end in a month? Fifty years?

Live long and prosper, friends.

~Jenicsaco