Confessions of a Hedgehog

Recent Updates

2011-03-21T15:18:00.002-06:00

I just got another email from Mandi, and for those of you following what's happening in Japan, there is some interesting news to report. First, all of the missionaries in Sendai and Tokyo have been moved to the other missions. This was so that no one would worry about them, especially the Japanese church members (who love the missionaries) and that way all attention could be turned to helping

Japan Earthquake

2011-03-11T13:38:00.003-07:00

So, I got a text from Washi which helped me to realize that I'm sure all of you are worried about Mandi. Mandi is okay. Being in Nagoya, they didn't get as much damage as Tokyo and Sendai (Sendai was where the 8.9 quake hit), so she is alright. But, our prayers and thoughts go to the people of Sendai and Tokyo who are experiencing this. My roommate looked up more information on the Japan

Heh heh

2011-02-16T17:29:00.003-07:00

Er, Hi everyone! Please don't kill me! I know it's been over a month, but I have a good reason: College + Senioritis= ADD So there you go. YOU CANNOT GET MAD AT ME!!! I'm graduating!! But, here's the latest letter from Mandi. Granted, I received it January 30, 2011, however I wish to announce that she will be departing for Japan Nagoya, March 1, 2011. And there was much rejoicing. So,

Long time no write!

2011-01-19T21:33:00.002-07:00

Hello, everyone! It's Jekka again with the latest update with Goodale shimai. She's doing alright. She's learning what every 12-week missionary learns about the MTC: it's a lot of rules. Actually, the mission is a lot of rules, but the MTC is more strict and rigid because you have 2,000 19-21 year old children stuck in one square mile, 24/7, 12 months year round. It can be quite daunting for

I almost forgot

2010-12-29T22:52:00.001-07:00

Mandi's dad made a website where he can post all of her letters, emails, and pictures. As I'm sure it is family and friends that will be viewing it, here is the link: http://web.me.com/cgoodale1/Sister_Goodale/Home.html okay, for real this time. . .Good-bye!

It's been three weeks. . . .

2010-12-29T22:28:00.003-07:00

Hello, everyone, and welcome to The Inflitrated Show! I am your host, Jekka! So, it has been three weeks since our lovely M.A.N.D.I has entered the Missionary Torture Center located in Provo, UT, USA, Northern Hemisphere, Earth, The Solar System of Awesomeness, The Milky Way, the Universe. Things are going well. The Japanese language is proving to be a tough one to crack, but that's why she's

Off on new adventures

2010-12-16T19:07:00.002-07:00

Well, it's official now: Mandi is learning Japanese and mad teaching skills and I'm in control of her blog. >:D isn't life awesome? So, things have changed since I went into the MTC. For one thing, it's basically drive-by-drop-off style now. No pictures except in the outside parking lots, and no loitering around the curb. It was quick and clean. And we got a little teary eyed but it was

Final Fantastical Post...

2010-12-14T08:59:00.010-07:00

I promise... So I finally finished it. Except for the salad plate. I didn't have time to finish up Yuffie before I left for my mission so I'll just have to finish her after I come back. Anywhoz, here it is: Dinner Plate: Salad Plate (or at least what will be on it): Coaster: Mug: Inside Bowl: Outside Bowl: "Finished" Set: Now they're all done! I have a set of 4!!! :) Yay! Zelda Mario Kirby

Jekka Jones now presents. . . .

2010-12-13T11:42:00.004-07:00

>:D That's what happens when M.A.N.D.I goes and infiltrates Nagoya: Jekka takes over!! every minions dream! Undermine the infiltrator!!! Muahahahaaaa!!!! EDIT by Goodale Shimai: What have I done?.... Good luck hedgehogs. I hope you aren't blown up by the mad Jekka in the next year and a half.... Stay strong.... T_T

Last day in Memphis!

2010-12-11T19:57:00.008-07:00

It's been a pretty good week! I've had a lot of fun getting things together and packing up and visiting friends. It was awesome to see everyone at my farewell party last night and party. My mother did a wonderful job with the food. We had all sorts of "Asian food" including Ramen and Egg rolls! We made Hello Kitty cake balls! And even showed how big of a fan we are of Japan. :) My mom is

Theme Songs...

2010-12-05T00:20:00.002-07:00

I dunno why, but I like to have one.... During high school and my first years of college I've had Stephanie Smith's "Better Off Alone" song. Depressing, but that was seriously my life through those years. Same old story over and over. Some more elaborate than others, but it was all the same thing. Either way, I've come to love the song "Let Me Go" by Cake for many reasons. You should listen to it

Dear Readers,

2010-11-24T09:09:00.002-07:00

Some of you may have noticed that I have "unsubscribed" to your blogs and other on-goings in your life. I want you to know that I mean no offense by this, but that since I am leaving, I will not be able to read them. Jekka has been so kind as to manage my blog and e-mail whilst I am gone and so she should update things on everything in Japan. :) I hope to get letters from you all while I am gone!

Nostalgic...

2010-10-28T21:11:00.003-06:00

So I went to my last convention this past weekend (at least for the next few years) in Nashville. It's a small convention called Geek Media Expo (or GMX for short). I was helping out with a friend, Morlock and his booth which was interesting. I'm really not the best sales person, but just being the booth babe seemed to get people to come. lol ;) Anywhoz, he sells Steampunk/Cyberpunk stuff! Alasse

Oh The Things You Can Think...

2010-10-15T00:21:00.004-06:00

...If only you try. Think down and think up, Think low and think high... Highs: I have a lot of clothes that will mostly work for my mission I'm almost done with my satchel I found two good patterns for skirts I can make My temple day is the 21st of October and I can't wait This months Ensign magazine is all about temples General Conference is on my iPod Pumpkin Waffles are delicious I found

Life is Good...

2010-10-11T21:57:00.004-06:00

I've got flashcards of Katakana and Hirigana up around the house so I can learn the language more. It's so much fun! It'll be REALLY interesting to hear how the Japanese pronounce "Goodale", especially since there aren't any "L"s in Japanese. ^_^ I've been learning new phrases and got some of the grammar down already. I'm really excited and I wanna watch more anime in Nihongo to see what I can

Called To Serve

2010-10-05T19:56:00.003-06:00

Japan Nagoya Mission Leave December 15, 2010 I seriously cannot believe I got Japan. How crazy is that. It was seriously last on my list of places I would go. The irony. I'm looking forward to it. I'm finally going. I'm going to be a representative of the Lord as a missionary to help others feel the light of Christ. I cannot wait. Right now I am sick and have a small fever, but I hope to get

Keeping Busy...

2010-09-20T21:34:00.002-06:00

I'm trying to stay busy because whenever I'm no busy, I get depressed. So, I've finished Tak's Steampunk set for his brithday/book signing/thanks for being my friend gift. He likes it of course. I'm glad. Last night we got to talking about cosplay and Steampunk and I got so excited that I stayed up all night drawing and improving my original outfit. All I need to really make is a belt/holster for

Tour de Crash

2010-09-15T21:34:00.004-06:00

I toats biffed it today on my bike. My friend Tak and I went biking on a trail at the park here called the "Tour de Wolf". It is a 6 mile trail that goes around Shelby Farms. It's an awesome trail, but definitely not for people who don't know what they are doing. :( I've been on parts of it when walking Kate and biking here and there, but I've never been the full 6 miles. Today we only went 4.5

Patience is....

2010-09-11T23:35:00.002-06:00

...the key to everything! Sheesh! I've come to realize that you need patience to have Charity, patience to gain more Faith, patience with customers that think 1+1=FISH, patience in long suffering, patience with patience! *sighs* I'm really bad at patience. I've been really stressed and worried about my mission call. Why has it taken so long to process? Why is it not here? Am I just that

Quickie

2010-09-07T16:27:00.002-06:00

Papers still aren't back. It's been three weeks.... Hopefully this week... Institute starts up again this week. Yay! I'm back on Facebook at least until I leave on my mission. I've been playing more of my guitar and learning more tabs. I need to post the rest of the pictures from Utah... or at least some of them sorry....I know I'm a slacker I've also been very addicted to games lately. I've been

I hope they call me on a mission....

2010-08-24T12:08:00.003-06:00

I'm going to be 23 on Thursday! How crazy is that? lol Anywhoz, I've had a lot of people ask me what I want and honestly... I don't know, but I picked out a couple of things that are awesome if you really want to know. In other news though... MY PAPERS ARE IN SALT LAKE!! ^_^ Yay! I am now in the waiting process until I get the papers back sometime in two weeks or so. Huzzah! I've started the

The wolderful world of Ghibli

2010-08-20T12:16:00.001-06:00

If anyone knows anything about anime, they should know of Hayao Miyazaki. He works with Disney and has created so many wonderful stories. Miyazaki's work is not your typical 26 series of Anime, but actual films, which I prefer more than sitting in front of the TV or computer for a week. There are some good series out there that I've watched though, don't get me wrong... Anywhoz, we'll get there

I've been shot!!

2010-08-11T10:32:00.002-06:00

Hepatitis A and B in the right arm, Tetanus and TB in the left. Holy chicken nibblets I cannot move my arms. OW! Sheesh. Thank goodness my awesome Utah family knows what to do to get things done. Today I'm going to get my vision done and I'm going to call the doctor again to see if I can get my information on my bloodwork and if it doesn't work... My "mom" is an EMT. ^_^ Yay! More needles! When

Papers....

2010-08-09T16:11:00.004-06:00

I'm so pissed off right now... I put my availability date as September 1st. I got my Dental work done. I got my Personal Medical papers filled out. I got my Doctor Medical papers filled out. ...or did I? Ugh! Sunday I had a meeting with the Stake President. I thought it would be my last meeting before he turned in my papers. I was hoping that since all my work was done he could just send it in

Cute Kirby!

2010-07-29T18:16:00.013-06:00

I'm so excited that these are done, you just don't even know. I'm not too excited about how the mug came out, but whatever. Now I just have one more set left! This'll be the most difficult one too 'cause of the detail and I don't even know what to do. Anywhoz, here it is!! Dinner Plate Salad Plate Coaster Mug Inside Bowl Outside Bowl Finished Set Huzzah! Now for Final Fantasy... I

....

2010-07-18T11:20:00.002-06:00

Have you ever had a dream so real or horrible that it just sets off your mood for the whole day, draining you of any and every motivation you had/have to get up in the morning and actually get things done? I've had this re-occuring dream and it's bothering me a lot. I wish it would go away and stop, but it's not like a really have anything to do at the moment. I've been drawing a lot, I need to

Know of any aliens, espers or time traveling waitresses?

2010-07-14T12:51:00.004-06:00

I just finished Haruhi Suzumiya and let me tell you, second time around in the correct chronological order, it is much more entertaining than the first time in the American order... Anywhoz, I consider that one should watch it and watch it in this order: 2,3,5,10,13,14,4,7,6,8,1,12,11,9. Although, if you want you can watch 14 at the end I recommend that 'cause it's much more exciting. I had to

Creative Cutie!

2010-07-11T16:08:00.006-06:00

Okay... so I've been trying to keep busy and I have actually been taking some sewing classes from a lady in the family ward of church! :) I finally finished my project. Well, it's not my original project... I started out with an attempt to make a satchel. That failed miserably because of lack of understanding the difficult and missing steps in the pattern. So, we made a skirt! I finished it

Where'd you go?...

2010-06-29T10:44:00.006-06:00

Hades, a lot has happened lately. Things have been super busy and I don't know where to even start. I'm still going on my mission and have been working on my papers. I'm waiting for my dentist because he's out of town until after the 4th. I'm also debating on getting a passport. I've never been out of the country and it would be a neat experience for sure, but it's $50 some-odd dollars that I

It's-a me, Mario!

2010-06-12T16:29:00.007-06:00

I finally finished another set! About time... I started working on my Kirby set too. Got the plates done at least. Gotta work on the mug and bowl now. Anywhoz, I swear Pookaknight that I am working on your commissions and when you get into town they will be done..... I hope... >.> If not, uh.... yeah...... something...... Dinner Plate Salad Plate Coaster Mug Inside of Bowl Outside of Bowl

Change

2010-05-29T22:23:00.002-06:00

"And it's a sad picture, the final blow hits you Somebody else gets what you wanted again You know it's all the same, another time and place Repeating history and you're getting sick of it But I believe in whatever you do And I'll do anything to see it through Because these things will change, can you feel it now? These walls that they put up to hold us back will fall down It's a revolution, the

Last of the Watercolors...

2010-05-28T10:29:00.003-06:00

(Sorry for that previous interruption... I came home rather speechless the other day to a surprise. Things have apparently been rather stressful due to a three day headache and stress blister on my lip. Lovely... Anywhoz, things have been pretty good in the life of Mandi aside from my stress. ^_^ I'm glad I've found some new friends and people I can talk to again without any drama. Yay! On to

We Interrupt this program....

2010-05-27T21:25:00.001-06:00

...due to life. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for your patience. Now back to our regular program...

Watercolors

2010-05-21T21:43:00.003-06:00

So after exploring the wonderful world of Amy, Nene and Renee, I found Deviantart! Huzzah! On Deviantart, one of the first artists I found was Karen Sweetland, aka Acorncupcake. Each of her faeries is not just painted, but has a story! They're all magical and really take me back to my Neverland. She also gives tutorials and almost always comments and responds back when I've posted to her

Style

2010-05-13T21:52:00.006-06:00

So I think I've finally come to terms with "my style" of art, or so to say the way I draw. I have not really liked the way I draw things for a while, but after looking around at other artists work and copying or "stealing" ideas from them and of course endless hours of just doodling and drawing, I think I've got it and can come to at least accept my own drawings. lol As many times as I critique

Graduation!!!

2010-05-11T21:07:00.002-06:00

Today I called in and paid my Graduation fee!!! OMGWTFBBQ YEA BABY!!! Because I am so late in my Graduating duties, it will not show until August on my transcript that I have Graduated with my Associates Degree in my General Eds. BUT I am done! No more Math, no more Psychology or Science! Maybe I'll go back one day, but for now I have other plans and hopefully in a few months I'll know whether or

Labels...

2010-05-10T22:33:00.004-06:00

So I guess I should feel accomplished today. It's been a pretty horrible week and it's only Monday... lovely eh? Anywhoz, here are the labels I've been working on. If you'd like to read what it says, you can check it out here and click it to zoom in. They were put together quite well and looked really nice. Thanks Burbank for helping out. I'm know Ryan and Lara really appreciated it. Gluing on

Faerie Notebook

2010-05-09T20:53:00.003-06:00

I couldn't resist the 40% off sketchbooks at Hobby Lobby.... I got a little 3x5 pad to take with me everywhere! :) (This was like last month...) But... every Sunday when I don't have anything else to write about and find some quiet down time, I'll sketch in it. So far, it's all been faeries! It's my little Faerie notebook! They're invading my book and are all over the pages. So far I have only a

Printing...

2010-05-08T21:29:00.003-06:00

Ok, so for Lara's wedding, I'm making soda labels similar to Jones' Soda labels, but with their picture and a few changes. (I'll post the finished product later) It's super cute. I've got the right dimensions, the size is correct, and it's laid out exactly how I want it to print. I don't want to print it on my crappy regular computer paper. I want it to look like a real label. Shiny, brighter and

MTAC and more...

2010-05-05T22:35:00.002-06:00

MTAC was fun. I'm really glad Sarah came and I'm really glad I didn't set up a booth this year. I at least got some ideas for next year... maybe. The pictures are posted in my Gallery if you wanna browse through the MTAC section, they're all there. It was a lot of fun. Got rained out and kinda stuck in Nashville for a while due to flooding, but all was well and I got home Monday afternoon. Crazy

Temper? -Long post-

2010-04-23T23:05:00.006-06:00

Things are a little stressful right now... -Company is coming and I really would like to clean my room. -The work schedule isn't out yet for this next week, so I can't plan anything with my company. -This next weekend is MTAC (Middle Tennessee Anime Convention) and I haven't done any preparations. -I'm speaking in church Sunday and I have written down one scripture on the topic and nothing more..

Intermission....

2010-04-19T17:21:00.002-06:00

Okay, I told myself I wouldn't post until Wednesday, but I was eating lunch today and I have to say something... I love yogurt parfaits. Random and stupid I know, but I do! I was so excited this morning when I woke up and found a whole box of strawberries momma bought that looked so wonderful and ripe that I couldn't resist taking them to work with some vanilla yogurt, granola, and banana. It was

General Conference

2010-04-18T11:07:00.003-06:00

I'm LDS (or Mormon) for those of you who don't know and recently we've had the opportunity to listen to the Prophet of our church speak to everyone worldwide. I have not had a chance to listen to General Conference over the weekend due to work and all Sunday I was cooking and cleaning up for the Singles in the church to come over during the break in between the conferences. Fortunately, they have

So much to do before MTAC!

2010-04-13T22:09:00.003-06:00

And time feels like it's running out. However it feels like this week is dragging on... So this is what I've gotten done on my list of things to do... Pictures of my Princess Tutu Shoes are up. If you haven't seen this anime, you should. It's super cute. This is what got me hooked on it. Watch it. Now. Quack! I also have finished the mascots for the church's softball team. We are the Fire

Confession...

2010-04-07T18:28:00.003-06:00

I think being this is "Confessions of a Hedgehog", it is time that I write a confession! Ready? Here we go... My name is Mandi and my life is a complete pathetic mess. End of confession. You may not think this is much of a confession (or you may agree with me), but to me, recognizing the mess is the first part. I'm sure everyone's life gets to be a mess sometimes, but I think mine is just

Life...

2010-04-04T20:58:00.003-06:00

Sometimes it just hits you at the most un-opportune moments and you learn so much from it, but you don't realize it until after the overwhelming sensation of stress, humiliation and emotional/mental exhaustion. Anywhoz, for those of you who haven't heard, I quit Facebook and discontinued my LiveJournal account. =\ I'm so tired of drama and the ragging from people that I just don't want to hear

2010-03-25T20:08:00.003-06:00

I've been very stressed as of lately and will not really be blogging much for the next few weeks. Please keep my family in your prayers as we are going through a rough time. Thanks. I'll post again soon.

Thoughtful....

2010-03-14T23:13:00.002-06:00

So I'm really frustrated right now, so I'm trying not to vent to avoid dramatic things, but just a quick update: I'm not doing Castle in the Sky cosplay. Don't ask about it. I signed up for the gym and I'm going to start working out everyday walking Kate, doing yoga, swimming and maybe kickboxing. I've also had to start getting my own food and plan my own meals being that my parents are now on a

Ideas are cooking........

2010-03-07T22:22:00.002-07:00

Life: (to skip through this boring portion of my blog and get to the point, scroll to the next big break) So I'm not doing the MTAC booth, but it at least has given me inspiration for Etsy things that I can sell. I've been working on a card set and I'm trying to finish up my bookmarks and Tutu shoes. I dunno if I mentioned it here, I think I said on Deviantart that I found a blank 12 month

MTAC Cosplay

2010-02-25T22:56:00.004-07:00

So I've decided I'm not going to do the booth this year with 4 new Anime Convention new comers. (maybe 5) *sighs* Besides, I've taken WAY too long to decide what I want to do and now with little time left, I've started to rush everything and I've messed up my Princess Tutu shoes which took me hours of days to finish just the outline, and some note cards and it's frustrating me. So I've decided

More later....

2010-02-22T17:56:00.003-07:00

I'm really reconsidering the booth at MTAC now.... I have a general idea for inventory and what I would like to sell. I have an idea of what I want in my portfolio. I even have the money for the booth. The problem is, I no longer have someone to share my booth with. I was so excited about MTAC and setting up my booth that I invited the "whole world". So I have two cousins, my cousins wife,

Got a Commission...

2010-02-10T22:17:00.004-07:00

AND IT'S SO FREAKING CUTE!!! I miss my Jekka a lot... This girl has really REALLY cute Chibi's and I have absolutely fallen in love with them. They're not your typical fat Chibi Anime Characters. They're skinny and tall and just so cute! Those big puppy eyes and the rounded lines draw me in. She's awesome and she's doing commissions for Haiti. They're not bad either. I mean $5 for a chibi?

Confessions of a foodie...

2010-02-03T21:23:00.004-07:00

Mom sent me some pictures the other day and I couldn't help but add some dialogue to them... My poor Kate has been cooped up inside the house for days now due to the snow, ice, rain and cold weather that prevents us from wanting to take her for a walk at the dog park... She's restless and dying to run and play and play and run! Anytime we have food out she is OBSESSED and goes crazy circling

Mini Madness

2010-01-30T01:04:00.002-07:00

So I've finally gotten the majority of what is "important" up in my gallery and so everyone should go take a look at them and tell me what is cute. You know you want to! :) I have a fairly large list from all of everyone's favorites and I'm going to have fun narrowing it down to what is more... viewable by the public... I'm still trying to finish up the commissions for Pookaknight. >.> I decided

Big steps...

2010-01-23T22:08:00.005-07:00

For the longest time (two years to be exact) I haven't been in school. The last time I was in school, it was the fall semester and I was working towards an associates degree out in Southern Utah trying to graduate to go home and transfer to the Memphis College of Art. Things happened and I failed my Math course that I needed to graduate. I came back to Memphis not really knowing what to do and

Christmas 2009...

2009-12-24T23:15:00.004-07:00

...yay. I survived another year. It's been quite the year.... It's been an interestingly rough ride through the Holiday's this year, but definitely not as crazy as last year. It's been slower this month, but being sick kinda made it seem slower. I think I'm getting better. At least I can kinda breathe again. Stupid nose... Though it may seem contrary if you have read my Facebook statuses, I am

Huzzah!!

2009-12-03T22:08:00.006-07:00

So, here's a few pictures from Thanksgiving. :) I had a lot of fun with my cousins. They're the best. This is Logan, Jen and I carmelldancin in front of the Hallmark Headquarters after my Aunt's Retirement party. I love my awesome family. We stayed awake until about 3am playing rock band the night before. It was a BLAST! Thanksgiving was great too. I've never had so much food at Thanksgiving

Happy Turkey Day!!

2009-11-24T18:12:00.002-07:00

I'm in Kansas City, Missouri for the Holidays this week! I hope everyone is enjoying their Holiday! I am! ^_^ I can't wait to have a non-fat free sugar free holiday!! Yay! Real pumpkin and apple pie with awesome fattening mashed potatoes and gravy! Huzzah! It'll be awesome! (For those of you who don't know, my dad is diabetic and has heart disease so we don't eat sugary or fatty foods... this

Bookmarks?

2009-11-11T17:32:00.002-07:00

I'm totally getting a little down and depressed about these things.... I want to do this. This will probably be the one thing that will give me a taste of what it is like to get my art out there. For those of you who don't know, I want to set up a booth at the Middle Tennessee Anime Convention (MTAC), the first weekend of May. I am trying to keep it mainly Faerie Stuff being that my website is

Halloween Next Year.....

2009-11-01T20:32:00.003-07:00

So I was totally lethargic and didn't do ANYTHING this Halloween... and I had a Saturday off without asking for it... AMAZING. What did I do? I went to work anyway to paint.......... lame. I know. I sat at home afterwords and watched the Nightmare Before Christmas, cause that's just tradition. ^_^ Friday I did go to the church dance though dressed up as a Panda Bear which was fun. I'll have

Chii?

2009-10-28T20:30:00.002-06:00

So, they're headphones first off. Which was really difficult to do. They're uneven and slightly wide. It's my first pair though. Which they have given me a wonderful idea on how to fix that and make them.... multi-purpose? is the word I'm looking for maybe? Anywhoz, they're awesome. I made the spools too. I thought it would be easy, but Zeus and Hera they're hard... The angles, the symmetry, the

Air/Wind

2009-10-18T22:57:00.004-06:00

So.... I'm an Earth and Fire Element. Though Earth gave me trouble with the lineart, I at least had a color scheme going on that I knew what to do. Green, Brown, Amber, Earth tones.... I'm working on Air/Wind Fairy now and I have no idea. I did a flat color scheme to go with and I dunno if I like it. In fact. I don't. I want Air to be mainly Purples, because water is going to be mostly blues. So.

Granola....

2009-10-10T15:46:00.003-06:00

Soooooo, this morning, I was preparing my lunch (yogurt and granola) for work and we were out of granola. So I went to the Target that was by my work to get some. All they had was Kashi. Dis-gust-ing. It was nasty. I will never get it again. Ew. Just wanted to share my thoughts on that, cause I like granola and oatmeal, but this stuff was gross! It looked like Smacks! cereal, but tasted like

That of art, music and anime...

2009-10-09T20:58:00.004-06:00

However, this Wind Faerie I've been working on is giving me some trouble... -.- I've had to redraw the whole fae itself from the original and start over, in Photoshop. Her proportions were waaaaay off. However, I think I've got it right now, I just need to add the wings and some details. What'cha think? Other than art, things are pretty okay here. I have found a new band that I like. If you like

Earth Element

2009-10-04T18:00:00.003-06:00

It is done. And I am happy. ^_^ Thanks for your help peoples! 13 votes for the Orange. She's awesome. I'm so excited that I don't even know what to say.... I'll let the art say it... Eventually I will sell these on Etsy when I can figure out how and where to make thick laminated prints out here. Punch holes, string some ribbon, etc. As for pricing... I dunno yet. I didn't clock my time...

In loving memory...

2009-09-30T20:10:00.006-06:00

One of my good friend's, whose name I will keep anonymous, mother died today. I'm sad that I was not there to comfort her being that she is a few states away. (that's the problem with these long distant things) I really regret that I am unable to be with her and I am sad to admit that our friendship seems to have fallen apart, at least on my end I feel like I have not been the best of friend I

Sneak peak!

2009-09-25T12:11:00.007-06:00

So I've started to color it again being that I was angry at it and didn't touch Photoshop for a day after I closed without saving........ So far so good. I've decided to take it slow. Do a little at a time. One thing a day. This is how far I've gotten: PLEASE! I would like any and all critiques, opinions and options that anyone can get me. A few things I am iffy about are: 1. Her hair. To blur

Metallica and Mtac

2009-09-20T12:19:00.003-06:00

So after Dragoncon, the next weekend Monday, I went with Joey to go see Metallica live in Nashville. I don't know Metallica too much, but I do enjoy their music and listen to them and have a few songs by them. The concert was fantastic. I knew this was a once in a lifetime thing, so I totally went and I am glad I did. It was a lot of fun. It was fun. They played for over 2 hours without a break

What have YOU been up to?

2009-09-17T09:56:00.010-06:00

ok ok ok. Sorry I've been slacking. I meant to upload this yesterday, but I got really busy working on the Paint a Piece Blog for work. So first things first.... Dragon Con: It was a lot of fun and there was so much to do that my head exploded. There was EVERYTHING there at the con. Pirates, pixies, goths, preps, crazy steampunk everywhere, anime, Stargate, Star Trek, Star Wars, World of Warcraft

I know I know.....

2009-09-12T14:45:00.004-06:00

I'm sorry. I have been lazy and I have actually been sick. I meant to post something before I left for the con, but I was rather rushed out the door to leave so I never got a chance. Forgive me!! However, I did fix my pictures, and you can view all the pictures from the convention on my website under Photography and under Festivals and Conventions. There are a few also under Friends and Family as

Teaser!

2009-08-18T23:51:00.004-06:00

So, the costume is done... At least the basis for it. The pictures you are about to see is not the full costume however. There will be some changes. This is what it looks like so far though! The brown jacket is a no go. I just got it because it was cute and Steampunkish. :) The dress looks wierd without something there, so what will be there (once I find some leather ties to tie it up) is that

Faeries?

2009-08-13T00:17:00.003-06:00

So, to those of you who don't know of Sally Smith, I like to follow her creations. She makes faerie houses and other things of nature. She's an amazing creationist and her photography skills are amazing. I always like to see what she comes up with next and what materials she uses. You should really check out her website. She has some amazing stuff on there. The other day I found two mushrooms

Steampunk2

2009-08-07T21:53:00.014-06:00

So here's the outfit that is incomplete: Isn't it cute!? And I can wear it to church as well! I am going to be wearing that hat with it, unless I get a bowler. I wouldn't mind a bowler. It would be super cute. :) With the dress, I am going to wear a vest/corset with it. This is the pattern we got: It's going to be the underbust on the right. Except instead of the three paces to tie it, there

Introduction to Steampunk

2009-08-05T20:46:00.006-06:00

So I know I've mentioned Steampunk a couple of times. For those of you who do not know what it is, I shall give a brief more detailed explanation.... Steampunk is a sub-genre of fantasy and speculative fiction. It is set in an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century, and often Victorian era England—but with prominent elements of either science fiction or

OMGWTFBBQ!

2009-07-31T22:56:00.002-06:00

I am completely stoked about Dragoncon. I went to go try on the basic part of my outfit for Haruko and steampunk and I'm so excited! The girl that is doing this is A-MAZ-ING!! She majored in seamstress and makes her own patterns! She's fantastic and is charging a really decent price for all three outfits. I'm really excited y'all. This is going to be so incredible. I am really looking forward to

New Arts!

2009-07-13T21:36:00.002-06:00

So it's crunch time! It's coming close to August and September will be here before you know it. I have my Moogle outfit done, so nothing to do there. Haruko I just need goggles for which I think I might get off of EBay or something. I dunno yet, I haven't found any I really care for. I would really like to get the helmet too, but we'll see. However I most definitely need to get her bracelet made

Happy National Faerie Day!

2009-06-25T00:18:00.006-06:00

Wednesday, June 24, is the official National Faerie Day holiday. I hope everyone wore their wings, or showed some sort of Faerie spirit!! I definitely did! I couldn't go all bonkers, but I did wear my wings: I had to work today, so I didn't want to wear anything actually too out there. My co-workers and boss already think I'm strange. I'm surprised one of them is willing to be my friend. I had

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm

2009-06-20T11:02:00.003-06:00

I am on my iTouch so you'll have to excuse some typos. I have fat fingers. I just got back from a nice liytle walk at the dog park, though I shouldn't say little because I got lost on a new path and so I ended up jogging/walking for I would say 2 maybe even 3 miles.... I was on part if the Tour de Wolf (a 5 mile bike run for those of you who do not live here). I'm whooped!! It was nice to get

What's New?

2009-05-27T16:29:00.005-06:00

Not too much. Just at work most of the time. On my days off I go to work to paint. :) I finally finished the dinner plate for the Zelda set. I hope it comes out alright. I loaded it today, so it will be done tomorrow night. I'm anxious. Here's a before picture: Then I saw something at the Wolfchase store the other day. Someone painted a spoon rest which made me and my co-worker/friend Kelly

The Most Awesome Customer Piece Ever!

2009-05-22T10:39:00.002-06:00

I saw this last night while I was working on my Zelda Dinner Plate. It's awesome. If you don't agree, you need to listen to Rush and learn about one of the most amazing drummers ever...DO IT!

Things around Memphis

2009-05-18T09:55:00.009-06:00

Had a rather eventful weekend. I went camping at Fort Pillow with the Memphis Singles Branch which was fun! I had a blast going camping. I haven't been camping since Girls Camp last year in June, which isn't really camping when you're in cabins with electricity, doors and a porch... But in Memphis you have to consider the humidity and bugs as a factor, because camping in 93 degree weather with an

Who's a nerd?

2009-05-14T11:52:00.006-06:00

That would be me..... They're not done yet. I mean, they're painted, but I need to fire them in the Kiln so they will be glazed. These are going to be so cool and I am so totally excited. lol Can you spell dork? Ha! Wanna know something even more geek-tastic? I'm basing my dish set off of the coasters... Yeah, I have no life. If you're a little confused.... The triangle is the Triforce from

Jeep Jeep!

2009-04-17T20:10:00.009-06:00

I love Moab! I think it's one of the best places in the world. I have missed this family so much!!!! They are so great and lovely! I've missed Torie, Washi, Dave, Nathan, Stephanie, Kevin, Katie, Charlie and Sunny, KC and more!!!! Y'all are great and I love you so much. We have had so much fun here. The fist day was kinda sucky cause Moab was really REALLY windy and the air was actually full of

SCORE!!!

2009-04-16T19:42:00.003-06:00

I totally love this movie in Disney and I love the live action ones too that are around, comedic and drama/action! If I could be any princess I would def. choose her and so I took a test about the BBC version of Robin Hood and the series they have and guess who I am!!! This totally rocks! I love Maid Merian! She's so awesome! <3 Torie is my witness that I totally did

I'll post more later....

2009-04-09T22:31:00.002-06:00

...promise!! I have updated art in DA, work tomorrow in the morning and Saturday night. I'll try to post something. I've got art block and my brain hurts... Until then, randomness!!! 1. Do you sleep in your bra? When I forget to take it off.... 2. Do you enjoy drama? No. I loathe it and try to stay away from those who attract it. 3. Are you a girly girl? Eh. Sometimes... When I feel like it.

It's impossible to wear a frown in Mandi town!

2009-03-21T23:34:00.004-06:00

*if you can name the song where the title is from, I'm sorry your mind has been corrupted and your precious time on earth wasted...* ANYWAYS.....so I told you I would update more later. Well, y'all are going to get a lot more, so here we go! What to say first.... I know! I'll start with a funny! Penny Arcade comics are occasionally rather risky and I don't care for the language they use, but

You are the one for me!

2009-03-21T02:22:00.002-06:00

So anyone who is or ever has been acquainted with the awesome shows of Veggie Tales, should most definitely (<- I finally spelled it right!!!) check out my newest art in my gallery. :) No updates for now. I am very much so tired emotionally and physically. A lot has gone on lately and I need to think about it before I mention it to anyone, though I should've mentioned it to y'all in the first

Shopping Spree!!!!

2009-03-10T22:05:00.003-06:00

So, it's spring break and one of my new found Memphis friends, Kelly and I went summer shopping! Now, I'm not a really big shopper, but Kelly is. We went to a bunch of places... Target, Kid's Corner, Gordman's, Shoe Carnival, Old Navy, Victoria Secret, Sophie's Closet and Charlotte Rousse. All in all I got a cute green skirt at Kid's Corner, some green and brown plaid "Bermuda" shorts, a bright "

99 Truths and 1 Command

2009-03-03T10:20:00.002-07:00

100 Truths- Darn you Alex! :P 01. Real name - Amanda Kaualulehuaopanaewa G... 02. Nickname(s)- Mandi Zoie Manda Panda Mandimoo and Miranwe 03. Zodiac sign - I think I'm a Virgo? 04. Male or female - Definitely Female 05. Elementary - Cordova 06. Middle School - Cordova 07. High School - Cordova (no lie) 08. Hair color-Right now it's more of a dark brown with red highlights... 09. Long or short -

Too cute!

2009-03-01T14:05:00.002-07:00

I can't stand not having my camera! Because of the snow I went and took my dog Kate out to the dog park and it was the most fun I've had all week. I throw and snowball and she tries to catch it. Sometimes she did and it would burst in her mouth or she would chomp down on it and eat the snow. She was so cute running here and there bounding through the snow like a grasshopper because she doesn't

Sweets, Snow, and Sign Language

2009-02-28T22:04:00.002-07:00

Sweets I have the munchies.... I hate it when I have the munchies.... 'Cause I eat everything.... I want something warm though.... But I don't want to cook.... So my sweet tooth kicks in.... There's a lot of dots in this paragraph. Snow It snowed today. Which is amazing. It will all be melted by Monday, but it snowed. I can't believe it actually snowed. I felt like I was back in Utah. Wierd.

Art, Friends, and Moab.....

2009-02-02T22:35:00.005-07:00

As some of you know from my LJ there's a lady that finally finished this gorgeous back splash for the CEO of Fedex to go into his kitchen. It's beautiful. I can only imagine the time it took her to make it. Pretty ain't it? Here's some missionaries that are having a little too much fun.... Le sigh. What goes on at the MTC.... This one is my favorite. I think it's so cute.... That's

Friends!!

2009-01-27T10:34:00.003-07:00

So I finished some work as some of you well know. The first one is just a CG for my lil sister and you can view it here. That's not the art I wanted to post here though. Being that Miss. Torie Chan is mostly on here I wanted to post her art!! Ta da!!! Yay! It's a torie! I tried to get the blonde right on and I think I did okay. It's better than yellow or orange hair right? ^_^ Hope she likes how

Art!!

2009-01-13T21:41:00.003-07:00

I posted my latest work on my gallery if you want to check it our. I've done this fae three times now. The silly girl wouldn't stop dancing. She like myself really wants spring to come early this year. I am not too fond of the winter. So I asked her if she'd do her Spring Dance. It's like a rain dance, but to persuade the flowers to bloom instead of rain to fall. I'm not sure if it worked, but it

OMG Finally!!!

2009-01-12T23:09:00.002-07:00

I can finally and officially say I am done with this picture. I can, once it is dry, post it on my gallery... I'll have to explain more tomorrow (later today) about this "masterpiece" I've been working on... Right now I'm tired and it's hard to post on blogger using my iTouch. I have fat fingers. Well, until later this afternoon when I can figure out how to use the scanner dad got for Christmas.

Repetition....

2008-12-18T21:34:00.002-07:00

I feel like all I ever type is.... "I swear I'm doing something..." lol I'm sorry ya'll have to put up with that. I really am doing things. Just been so busy with Christmas and work and alls that. I got a promo. at work and so now I'm "assistant manager" to which I worked everyday except Sunday last week. Which is fine. Work = $$ which is what I need, especially if I plan on getting an apartment

VOILA!

2008-12-03T14:14:00.002-07:00

I have almost finished my Christmas presents! I have a few more embroideries to do and then I'm done with crafts. That means that the only thing left to do is art! Never fear, I have been working on a picture that is NOT a Christmas gift. So I'm trying to make it look good. It's hard... I thought it would be an easy picture, boy was I wrong. I haven't done graphics in a while so I'm doing some

Lazy

2008-11-16T22:47:00.003-07:00

I've been meaning to post in Jekka's blog, but I haven't gotten around to it.... I'm sorry!!! Gomen! I was really busy last week with work everyday and I've been really tired. I've never worked more than 5 days a week, not to mention 5 shift days, not every morning, then night. I worked all day open to close Wednesday just about. I had a 2 hour break or so, but I wasn't about to drive home, then

Serious Stuff

2008-11-09T22:53:00.002-07:00

I'm a little distraught and at a loss which causes me a lack of sleep with all the other overwhelming things I have to deal with right now. I'd rather not talk about it on my "Happy Art Blog", but if you'd like to post your two cents of the matter, you're more than welcome to and I'd love to hear your comments on opinions and just what you think. I'm not a very political or news oriented person,

Awesome Artist Alley

2008-10-28T21:32:00.002-06:00

Just some new artists that I've found and become interested in! William O Conner I like the way he uses his colors and the softness of the pictures. I especially like Zephyr's Tomb (the random roll), but he also does amazing dragons and other fantastical art work. Karen Sweetland A Faerie Artist. Uses mainly watercolors. I met her on Deviantart and she's so sweet! Her art is so magical and