Back in February I read a post by my friend Corinne Rodrigues of Everyday Gyaan which was all about the upcoming Blogging From A To Z Challenge. I’m always up for a challenge – especially a blogging challenge! – so I was immediately intrigued and decided to learn more.
Basically, the idea of the now-annual event is for participants to blog their way through the alphabet in April, posting on a topic beginning with the letter A on April 1, B on April 2, and so on, all the way through the month (with the exception of Sundays) until finally arriving at the letter Z on April 30. (You can find some background and a more detailed explanation of the challenge here.) Posts may be based on a theme, or not – the only guideline is that they must follow the prescribed letter of the day. It’s a fun way to add some structure to your blog posts and connect with other bloggers who are doing the same.
I remembered seeing posts from others who participated in this challenge in previous years, but had never signed up and committed to doing it myself.
That is, until this year!
Since I’m attempting another 365 consecutive days of blogging in 2014, and am (so far) off to a perfect start, I thought I’d piggyback on what I’m already doing and jump in on the Blogging From A To Z Challenge for April. I signed up for the challenge, joined an AtoZ 2014 Facebook Group, started brainstorming about a theme, and finally joined an A to Z Challenge Theme Reveal BlogFest… which brings me to today.
Theme reveal day!
When I was debating possible themes, I knew I wanted something different, lighter, a little more fun and a little less “thinky” than the sort of thing I often write. I wanted my April posts to be focused on creativity and growth. After a long, grey winter, I wanted something cheerful and fresh and visually appealing.
So the theme I chose is… drumroll, please…
Tangling from A to Z
Confused?! Don’t be! Read all about my love of tangling in this post (don’t worry, I’ll wait for you!), then come back and see how I’m going to tackle the Blogging From A To Z Challenge.
Back now? OK, here’s what I’ll be doing.
Every day in April (excluding Sundays), I’ll…
- learn three new tangles, each with a name that begins with the appropriate letter for the day.
- create a 3.5″ square Zentangle®1 tile which incorporates the three tangles I just learned.
- share photos of my process and links to instructions (in case you’re interested in doing some tangling yourself!).
(I’ll still be posting on Sundays, of course, though it won’t be as part of the challenge theme – Sundays are reserved for the Gratitude Linkup, which is fast becoming a lovely tradition on Alphabet Salad!)
Some challenge days my posts might just be captioned photos, but I’m not ruling out the possibility of including some wordy rambles, depending on the mood of the moment. We’ll just have to see what transpires!
So I’m looking forward to a creative, energized, growth-filled April, with a blog that’s awash in pretty images and inspiration. And I invite you to come along for the ride!
Are you participating in the A-Z Challenge?
(It’s not too late to sign up!)
Please share!
1 The Zentangle® Method was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas and is copyrighted. Zentangle® is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc. Learn more at zentangle.com.

Twitter: thechefkatrina
March 21, 2014
Now this looks like an interesting challenge. I will have to do some brainstorming for a theme myself. This is my first time learning about this blogging challenge.
Thank you so much for sharing!
Katrina recently posted… Blog Help: Are You Using Fiverr for Your Blog Needs?
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
You’re welcome – if you decide to join in, I hope you enjoy it!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: shyvish
March 21, 2014
Oh this sounds really intriguing! The most intriguing of the lot I have read today 🙂 Good luck 🙂
Shailaja V recently posted… A to Z 2014: Reasons and Revelations
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you so much! I’m looking forward to it!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: worldwidewriter
March 21, 2014
I love the idea of an A-Z blogging challenge, although as a travel blogger I mind find some letters problematic. (Not sure I’ve ever been anywhere beginning with X!)
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
LOL, I can imagine! Some of the letters are definitely a challenge.
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
This is really something really interesting…
would love to read how you weave those tangles…
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you – I’m looking forward to the challenge!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: shilpaagarg
March 21, 2014
I learnt about Zentangles on Kathy Comb’s blog and did create one artwork. And then subscribed to a newsletter on Zentangles too. But as expected, rarely read it. But your posts on this art is what I need! Looking forward to your lessons keenly, Laurel 🙂 ♥
Shilpa Garg recently posted… A to Z Challenge Theme Reveal
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Kathy does beautiful work – she’s an inspiration!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: 1951
March 21, 2014
Tangling fascinates me: why people do it, how they find time, what they do with the tangles. Looking forward!
Carol Cassara recently posted… Accepting the new reality: a generation in denial
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
It’s a very relaxing and satisfying form of art – and really, it can take as much or as little time as you have to spend! I’m looking forward to picking it up again.
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: vidyasury
March 21, 2014
Laurel, love your theme. I am fascinated with zentangles and I am looking forward to your art!
Yes, I am going to post on Sundays too – and I think I’ll start tuning those posts towards gratitude! Let’s rock! Hugs!
Vidya
Team Damyanti
“>My April A to Z Challenge 2014 Theme Reveal #atozchallenge #atozreveal
Vidya Sury recently posted… My April A to Z Challenge 2014 Theme Reveal #atozchallenge @AprilA2Z
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you so much, Vidya! Looking forward to April!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Now I’m really in trouble. You MADE me read your very enticing tangling post, and I’m not an artist but have wanted to tiptoe into it along with my new blogging venture. So tangling is on my “look into” list for May, and your blog is on my April reading list. Very excited!!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Wonderful! Tangling is so satisfying, whether or not you consider yourself an artist. I hope you do give it a try!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: CorinneBlogs
March 21, 2014
You make it all seem so effortless, Laurel! I’m always in awe of you. Looking forward to seeing all the tangles!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted… April Come She Will #AtoZChallenge
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Awww, thank you so much, Corinne! And thank you for inspiring me to join A to Z. 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: kaushiva
March 21, 2014
I’ve just heard about Zentangles and seen some pretty amazing art work by Kathy I’m awe. I’m sure with your tips I’ll be tempted to try one myself! All the best! 🙂
Aditi recently posted… My Treasure Chest
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Kathy does some beautiful work! She’s definitely an inspiration.
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: nabanita21
March 21, 2014
I like this tangling theme!!
All the best ..looking forward to it!
nabanita recently posted… A to Z Challenge Theme Reveal – A Tales Buffet!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you! I think it’ll be a lot of fun!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Hey Laurel,
Interesting , unique Theme…
Cant wait for April1 🙂
Ananya Kiran recently posted… Theme Revelation !
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you! Looking forward to it!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: doreenb8
March 21, 2014
I am fascinated! I have never heard of tangling and I am really looking forward to learning more.
Good luck with the challenge! This is my third year and as usual I am still not organized but I’m hoping to write a few posts today.
Doreen McGettigan recently posted… Drum Roll Please, The A-to-Z Challenge Theme Reveal is Today
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you so much – I think it’ll be a lot of fun!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: Sophie_Bowns
March 21, 2014
I do love the idea of a blogging challenge. However, I’m working on my novel, Azure at the moment & I would like to focus on that!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Totally understandable!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: Krystol1
March 21, 2014
Hello Lauren! My name is Krystol and I too will be doing the challenge this year. This is my first time and I must say that I’m very excited and nervous. I guess figuring out what to say on a daily basis using the letters of alphabet. Tangling, huh? I had never heard of this prior to reading your messages. But, it looks fun. It’s a pleasure meeting you and feel free to check out my reveal at http://www.writingsbykrystol.com.
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Very nice to meet you, Krystol – all the best on A to Z! I think it’ll be a lot of fun.
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: LindaBrendle
March 21, 2014
Laurel, I have not heard of tangling before. I’ll be interested to see what you come up with each day. I’m doing the challenge, too. I didn’t participate in the reveal but am hoping to keep up with the daily posts. Every day I think I will get a running start and write my posts in advance, but so far it hasn’t happened!
Blessings,
Linda
Linda Brendle recently posted… Book Trailers – Mine Is Coming April 14 | by Linda Brendle
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
I’m hoping to get some of mine set up ahead of time, so as to streamline things a bit for April. We’ll see! Good luck with the challenge. 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: DebbieDoglady
March 21, 2014
That’s some very cool artwork! I’ll be looking forward to your posts. It’s my first time participating as well. 🙂 Good luck!
Debbie recently posted… ANNOUNCING THE GREAT THEME REVEAL! #AtoZChallenge #AtoZReveal
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
Thank you so much, Debbie – good luck to you as well! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: peppylady
March 21, 2014
This A to Z challenge sure sound fun, can’t wait until it start. Good way of meeting new bloggers.
I’m going to wing it or (MI) person.
Coffee is on
peppylady (Dora) recently posted… Weekend Photo Hunt (Focus-Technical)
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 21, 2014
I think it will be great – have fun with it! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: Krystol1
March 21, 2014
I do as well!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 22, 2014
I’m working on setting up the framework for my posts now… it’s a lot of work, but it’ll save time later!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
So glad to hear you’re doing this, Laurel, and what an interesting topic. Your tangles are beautiful, and I’ll be looking forward to see what you do. I’ve done the challenge for the past two years but I’m passing on it this year–I couldn’t come up with a theme that interested me enough. I’m happy to read other people’s, though!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 22, 2014
Thanks so much, Elaine! It’ll be a change from just writing, but I think I need to focus on something more visual for awhile. Looking forward to it!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: suzyq1810
March 22, 2014
Awesome I love tangling. Look forward to some very zen tangles. Yay.
Suzy recently posted… A to Z 2014 – My Theme
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 22, 2014
Tangling is wonderful! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: BatteredHope
March 22, 2014
You are the first blog I looked at for the theme reveal as I just returned from being on the road this week. WOW – how intriguing — I look forward, as usual, to your posts during this challenge.
Carol Graham recently posted… The Coveted Liebster Award
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 22, 2014
Glad you’re back! I think it’s going to be a fun challenge. 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
As a visual artist…watercolorist and former school art teacher…your Theme and, the Zentangle Art Form, is of keen interest to me. Like you, I’m always looking for the next creative challenge, and here I’ve found two…writing and drawing. Thanks for the links to ‘Tangle’…I’m looking forward to giving it a try and to your AtoZ Challenge posts. I’ve added you to my AtoZ BlogRoll so I don’t miss a single post. Great job on the Theme Reveal…I’m so glad I stopped by. I am #192 Sue at CollectInTexas Gal
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 22, 2014
Very nice to meet you – and so glad you stopped by and commented! All the very best on the challenge – it’s going to be fun!
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
It will be so nice to see your zentangles again Laurel, you are so talented. xo
karen recently posted… Groovebook: A Groovy Little iPhone App!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 22, 2014
Awww, thank you so much Karen! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… How well do you know yourself?
Twitter: drgaurikekre
March 23, 2014
What a cool theme!!! Love it, and will be watching out for all your tangles 🙂
Gauri recently posted… A to Z April Blogging Challenge Theme Reveal
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 23, 2014
Thank you so much! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… 100 Words: An Elderly Couple
A tingly tangly post 🙂 Lovely, Laurel 🙂 I’m sure this is going to enjoyable. There’s nothing like art to unleash the creativity that’s lurking inside. Waiting for the Zentangled April ! 🙂
Sreeja Praveen recently posted… Here we come, A to Z !! ( A to Z Theme Reveal post)
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 23, 2014
I am so looking forward to it!
Laurel Regan recently posted… 100 Words: An Elderly Couple
Twitter: psychbabbler
March 23, 2014
Oh wow! That’s an incredible project and a very unique theme! Good luck Laurel and looking forward to following your journey.
Psych Babbler recently posted… Lessons for a younger me
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 23, 2014
Thank you very much! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… 100 Words: An Elderly Couple
Very interesting and I believe A-Z comes at a good time for you in the resolution to carry on blogging 365 days!
Richa Singh recently posted… Travel and Technology
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 23, 2014
These challenges definitely help keep me going!
Laurel Regan recently posted… 100 Words: An Elderly Couple
oh wow! amazing tangles. Waiting for them.
sugandha recently posted… A to Z theme reveal
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 23, 2014
Thank you so much! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… Today’s Gratitude List – Linkup No. 22
Twitter: Sri_Indrasenan
March 24, 2014
I am Stri and I am a fellow participant too! I am excited about you theme, good luck 🙂
S(t)ri recently posted… Seven Things To Do To Beat Single-o-Phobia
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 24, 2014
Thank you, and good luck to you too! It’s going to be fun. 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… Today’s Gratitude List – Linkup No. 22
That is a challenge within a challenge… would love to know what tangles you come up with
Shiva recently posted… Greatest Love of All
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 24, 2014
I’m looking forward to the project! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… Today’s Gratitude List – Linkup No. 22
Now this is a cool idea!! I will look forward to seeing your tangles and following your progress through the month. Awesome! I can not wait. I am planning to share some finished tangles throughout the month mixed in with 55 fiction and haiku.
Kathy Combs ( recently posted… The Greatest Love of All
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 24, 2014
Thanks, Kathy! I am so looking forward to April!
Laurel Regan recently posted… Today’s Gratitude List – Linkup No. 22
that is so intriguing.all the best.
nz recently posted… Theme reveal
Twitter: alphabetsalad
March 25, 2014
Thank you! 🙂
Laurel Regan recently posted… 100 Words: A Recipe for Morning
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