Over the summer, I wrote a post about wanting a camera. Actually, the post was about a loved one who shot down my dream of owning a nice camera one day. It's been six months, and I still don't have that camera. But, truly, this has been a rough year financially. It doesn't mean I won't get that camera or that I'll give up on the idea of having that nice camera. What I realized is that I don't have to sacrifice my dreams, sacrifice living simply because something isn't attainable for me right now.

This realization hit me while scrolling the internet and seeing all the photographs my online friends were posting. I started seeing various hashtags and buzzwords that I was only vaguely familiar with. So I took some time to do a little research, ask around and lose myself in some fabulous blogs. I saw that people all over the world are participating in various online photo projects to share and document their lives, and I knew I wanted to get involved. Except I don't have that nice camera. Yeah, so what? I just upgraded my old iPhone to the iPhone 4, which has a pretty damn nice camera on it. Why shouldn't I be using that handy, convenient camera every chance I get? By the way, the phone cost me $20.51. Yep. I traded in my old phone at Target. If you're due for a new phone, I suggest checking their program out; they offer all the major carriers.

Back to my story, I have this awesome phone, and there are apps out there that will help transform your photos into works of art. There are also a number of blogs who have set up fun photo sharing projects for the year or by the month. I figured why not get involved? I did a bit more resarch and discovered some great tutorials and a free class that can help me use that iPhone camera to its fullest potential. For time's sake, I'm just going to list out the resources I've found so that you can get started on your photo journal project as well. By the way, here's my first picture of the year. They're cute when they're sleeping, aren't they?

Photo Journaling Projects

Photo a Day Challenge - I noticed on Instagram that many people were using the hashtag #JANphotoaday. So I had to check it out. What I found was the blog Fat Mum Slim, where Chantelle was issuing the challenge to photograph a different subject each day in January. I joined in a couple days late, but I'm loving the sharing that's going on. It's so fun to see what others are having for breakfast or what they adore in their lives.

Project 365 - This is the daily photo journaling and sharing project that, I believe, started it all. The site, in conjunction with the iPhone app, allow you to go back and see just what you did each day of the year. I'm not sure if I'll have the dedication to take part each and every day, but I sure intend to try!

Photo Apps

Instagram - This app makes taking photos fun and easy. You can transform your pictures by adding various filters and edits. Then share them with other Instagram users. I love it!

Project 365 - This app goes along with the daily photo journaling project of the same name. I just bought the pro version for .99. What's really cool about it is that it places your daily photos on a calendar that you can then print out or add to a website or blog. You can also send your photos instantly to flickr or other sharing site.

My January Project 365 so far

Classes/Tutorials

iPhone Photography Workshop through CreativeLIVE - Sign up here and sign up now because this class is tomorrow. So sorry for the short notice. This is a two-day workshop that's free to attend. They'll be discussing and demonstrating the best apps for iPhonoegraphy and teaching techniques to help you make the very most of your iPhone camera.Video will be available for purchase. It's $59 dollars pre-purchase, $79 after tomorrow.

How Did I Do That? Step by Step Solutions for Creative iPhone Photography - This PDF document by Cynthia Louden is so in-depth, but she gives screen shots and how to's that make it all doable. She really does show you step by step! I am amazed by the amount of information provided in this tutorial for free. I haven't read it all yet, but I will!

How to Organize Project 365 by Angry Julie Monday - Apparently, Julie tackled Project 365 last year and almost let her perfectionism take her over the edge. She gives great tips in this blog post on how to handle the daily task of documenting, storing and sharing photos without losing your mind. Thanks, Julie!

Top 7 Must-Have iPhoneography Apps - Zina of the blog, Develop, offers this fantastic post of what other apps will help to make your iPhone photography outstanding.

So what do you think? Have you taken part in any of these projects or used the tools mentioned here? Do you plan to jump on board this year? I'd love to hear your thoughts and tips. Happy photo taking!

I have a friend who underwent plastic surgery not that long ago. Apparently, it was something she's always wanted to do. Since the procedure (breast augmentation), she's had no regrets. After having lunch with her the other day, I got to thinking about other surgical procedures and what's involved. The writer in me was curious and wanted to explore the topic.

I, personally, have thought about a tummy tuck. After having three children, my poor body just isn't the same, and I know the abdominal muscles are the most difficult to get in shape. But my flab issues are minor in comparison to many who are dealing with serious weight problems. I wanted to explore weight loss surgery and the options for those who may be considering it.

There are several types of bariatric surgery, such as gastric banding, gastric bypass, and sleeve gastrectomy. Regardless of type, there are some things people considering such procedures must do. The first is to determine if you're a good candidate for weight loss surgery, and this involves finding a physician you can trust. Be sure the doctor possesses certifications and can provide referrals. Go with your gut as well; you need to feel entirely comfortable with the person performing this kind of procedure on your body.

Ask questions, of your physician as well as other experts, and be sure the procedure if covered by your insurance. If it's not covered, can you afford to pay for it out of pocket, and is it truly worth the expense? Take into consideration health factors as well as personal conviction. Do your research and choose a qualified physician whom you trust.

What many people don't consider is what happens after the surgery. You'll want to ask what kinds of procedures are in place for aftercare. Not just for the recovery period, but are there programs and personnel who will help you learn to adjust to your new lifestyle and to help ensure your results will be as positive as they can be? Counseling and education are key to making lasting changes that stick. I'm learning that on my own personal weight loss journey. There's so much more to any weight loss than just counting calories and shedding pounds.

Have you gotten your kids' Halloween costumes yet? I have, only thanks to my dear husband who got the ball rolling when he had our daughter out running errands. If it weren't for that, I probably would just now be thinking about what costumes to get. One year, I waited until the absolute last possible minute. Don't ever do that. It's bad. Real bad.

I very recently learned about a new service associated with eBay, called PicClick, that makes finding the exact costume your kid's been whining about asking for a much easier task than ever before. I've bought costumes on eBay in the past and think it's a great way to get unique, well-made costumes at a fraction of the cost of buying new, but it can be hard to compare all of the available costumes and find the best price, from the most reputable seller.

That's where PicClick comes in. With this tool, you can see up to a hundred products on one page, compared with just a handful in a standard eBay view. Also, PicClick cuts out all the extra clutter of banner ads and such that run on eBay. Here's a screen shot.

There's still time left before Halloween.. If you haven't gotten your kids' (or your own!) costumes yet, give PicClick a try. I think this would be a great way to look for other things too, like the best bargain in high-end cosmetics, fashion, or jewelry. Yes, I've bought diamonds on eBay in the past. You can get great deals. Wish I'd had PicClick then!