Leurai created the first set of pups that are available for adoption. I have to say my first impression on them is something you would take with you on a picnic. This means that the design can vary depending. It can be picnic related theme or showing one of nature. Nature seems to be a big running theme this year already. Though I don't digress against it as I often love these themes. So far from what I have seen from the pups it seems like a cross hatch patterns of grass. Though I'll give more of of my thoughts on this later.
Sorren Fey this time as really outdone herself I think. Then again she's always been one with colors to begin with. Anyway, they seem to be reflecting spring to be honest with the flowers and lively swirly like markings on the blanket. With the few that have grown up so far it doesn't surprise me that their base is dark charcoal gray almost. It would give reason for the pastel colors to pop; giving the impression of spring flowers. I can't wait to see this litter fully grown. ;3
Guest Artist DisabledLlama also has pitched in a litter this month. Her's seem more natural colored with their base and blanket to boot. I'm not exactly sure what the white pattern is suppose to represent. It could represent face paint, the sun, flowers, or even a windmill. Though the white design seems to appear on most of the outcomes thus far. The natural patterns so far are very pleasant and easy on the eyes. To me they seem to have a slight tribal feel to them.
Leurai Created the set of kittens for adopt this month. This was also the only litter produced at the beginning of this months time. I believe these will be a bit brighter than her pup set giving the blanket that she choose to give the kits. A flower pattern placed delicately within the center; surrounded by colors. Assuming they are the colors the kits will grow into, most will be in the pastel flower themed. Cat's are usually my favorite adoptable, so I will be looking forward to these.
Leurai's rat seems to be natural based in coloration. Though it has hints of Aztec coloration and patterns. I'm not sure how this will play out into the rats as they grow out of this stage but they seem pretty interesting considering. I'm sure there are other native tribes that might also share the same coloration or patterns that I'm not aware of. Course on the other end of the spectrum; I've also been suggested that it might reflect a circuit board. Yet, I don't much see it. We'll see as they begin to grow. ;3
Ricorn seems to have joined the boat this month with newborn rats. The pattern indicates a very wild spotted pattern. I'm not sure if they'll be more than one type; which I'm sure some might reflect on different wild patterns. This one currently reflects a clouded leopard and a few other marbled felines to my knowledge.
Ricorn also has given us the only set of butterfly wolves for the start of the month. My first impression of course was "Zebra." Who would blame me to that extent? Though I love the idea of revisiting old simple patterns to be honest. Most that I've spoken to are quite excited about this batch and I have to say I agree. I believe stripes can be done well and if done well enough can never get dull when revisiting the same ideas.
I'm happy to see Malk once more created this months spiders. At first glance it took me a bit to guess despite the obvious in the pattern. The orange and stripped pattern seems very tigerish; so I can just assume that this will also be another wild animal print design but a redo fashion onto spiders for a change of pace.
Leurai; being one a busy artist this months has also released the set of owl eggs. My first impression on the set is included in one word; "neon." The eggs themselves seem very bright in coloration and I'm looking forward to a very bright set. On a second note they may also be a spectrum/rainbow set for the egg seems to include most of the colors.
Leurai seems to have a theme running this month on most of the pets she approaches. These seem to have their natural brown hued base which I always love to see on equines; or even in general most pets. I also love the splash of unnatural coloration around the horses neck and around their chest area. Swirls are usually one of my favorite patterns and including the bright vivid colors I assume they will spread over the design on natural colored pelts. The colors well compliment the base very well I believe.
Leurai has stricken again. This set of newborn horses seems to follow that path according. This set seems to have a very unsaturated natural dark base. The patterns seem like they are either dabbled or swirl like in appearance on the base's coat. The markings are also very unsaturated in appearance. This isn't a bad thing as it's diverse from the rest of the pets that are available for adoption this month. The one thing that stands out about them to me is their streaked manes and tails.
Review by Caesar
The owl litter this month is awesome. This litter features five outcomes with stunning glowing wings. In various colors, these owls have normal colors owls usually possess, but with unique glowing effects on both their wings and eyes. The glowing even shines a bit on it's feathers, which shows great attention to detail by Leurai, the artist for this beautiful litter.
This cat litter, designed by Leurai, has a very natural and calming theme. There are four outcomes, each a different and beautiful color. The colors include beige, green, blue, and grey. In addition to the unique and fun colors, we have beautiful plant designs adorning the cat's front legs, which are either a flower design or a leafy design. Their hind legs then have stripes that are the same color as their design, giving a nice match throughout. To finish it off, light dots of color are scattered throughout it's body, which is just like the icing on a cake.
The first of three dog litters, this one by guest artist DisabledLlama showcases dogs with realistic fur patterns, with a unique swirl effect. While of the three outcomes, two have orange eyes, this outcome featured a very unique twist. This dog has two different colored eyes! Also known as the condition heterochromia iridum. Props to DisabledLlama for making this creatively unique litter!
This dog litter by Leurai is simple, yet nice. The outcomes all have the fur patterns of a normal dog, making them seem very natural. In addition to the lovely fur, these outcomes all have stubbed tails! This is some thing unique in Chicken Smoothie pets, just like swirled tails. Great job Leurai!
This unique litter was designed by the talented Sorren Fey! All the outcomes have a black coat with sparkles and light grey swirls, but they then all have unique designs. These designs include tight stripes, lovely swirls, or the simple flower as showcased by the only dog PPS this month. We can assume that this PPS will be a rare one!
This litter by Ricorn features Butterfly Wolves with unique zebra pattern! There are seven outcomes, all different colors These colors include blue, purple, yellow, green, orange, red, and blue! This stunning variety is great for your collection!
This litter by Malk is very unique! These spiders have an animal print pattern, ranging from zebra to leopard to tiger, etc. This shows a unique blend of creatures with four different outcomes. Malk never disappoints!
This month's horses have two litters, both by Yulynh! This first litter Shows horses with normal colors and patterns in all outcomes, but with a twist. They also have a beautiful swirl design and big dots. In addition, there appears to be a grassy pattern right above their hooves, giving a natural feel.
This litter of horses come in the colors orange, black, dark purple, and dark yellow! All of these although have dots of color spread throughout their body's that may remind one of fireworks. These dots seem to glow almost and giving lighting. It's a nice subtle technique that Yulynh is great at.
We have two litters of rats this month, and they are both just great. This first one by Ricorn has been mostly shrouded in mystery as only one outcome has grown so far. This outcome is mostly all brown with a light brown underbelly, and a rock-like pattern on it's back. To finish it off, this one's tail has brown specs on the top that tie the whole design together.
This litter by Leurai also has an outcome yet to grow, but the two outcomes that have grown are very nice. The colors so far have been blue and purple, and yellow and blue! Both of these outcomes showcase a very interesting pattern with many spaces, reminiscent of a tribal like pattern.
Picnic Litter outcome: Seems I kinda hit and miss this one on the beginning reviews. It is nature. Naturish. Basically I didn't know where this was going to lead and took my best guess. Apparently this litter meant that having a picnic basket around and you'll soon have bears; So bears it is. I'm actually a bit surprised but a bit relieved that there is a collective theme with them. Lets get into each one that has grown thus far.
Brown bear: Course, I wouldn't imagine there being a bear set without a brown bear ever not being involved. What threw me off of track is this dog right here in my beginning month reviews. I thought it resembled grass a lot more than anything. Unfortunately; I still see that trademark. Its a good playful idea but the cross hatching of the pelt colors seems too varied and not so much highlight. I normally see faded hues in brown bears and I can't say this one really touched base with that. It's still a lovely design but the colors are too sharply different to scream brown bear at me.
Speckled Bear: Now we move to this growth; the speckled bear. To be honest I've never even seen a speckled bear before and got a glimpse of one when someone posted a few pictures of the species on the discussion form. I can still see the cross hatching type marking but its very subtle in this one and blends in rather than standing out too much.This is a good thing in my opinion as it doesn't distract from the face or the over all features. I like how this out come came out.
Black bear: Now with this out come I can tell that they tried to make a generic black bear. There is nothing wrong in that fact at all. I understand their facial markings can vary differently and would take me a moment to step back and understand the design. I do grasp the fact that it is indeed a black bear. I love how they stuck with unsaturated colors for this. ;3
Polar bear: Lastly; I don't think we'd ever expect to have these guys invading our picnics. Unless of course you like having picnics in freezing temperatures. I had to wait till the last minute, in other words he grew up after I finished my review but I'll edit just for this one. I love the gray on the nose and the darker pads on the paws. My favorite of the bunch. ;3
I'm not really sure how to grasp this litter to be honest. I've picked up the names from the discussion thread because I had no idea what to label them as; which is per usual with me any way. Over all I noticed that the shading layer is close to nonexistent and I figure that's because if there was high shading that most of the detail would be covered by it.
Light Chocolate Sun: It's not very often you'll see a pet with a dark belly underside. This is a unique factor they put into this design and I like it for that aspect. It also has a line that travels down the side. Not sure I love that but it doesn't take away from the pet over all. The marks above its eye is eye catching as it accents the eyes.
Dark Chocolate Sun: One of the main things I see is some of these designs have dark backsides while others have dark bellies. This pup has a dark backside and light stomach. The white accents of the eyes are splashed downward and flipped a bit in that regard. He also has dark socks on his back hind feet. I find that to be an adorable trait.
Chocolate Sun PPS: This little guy has much of the appearance of the first one mentioned. The only difference is that he has two wide dashes; one under while the other is over his eye. But has a white lining around his floppy ears which define them nicely.
Heart Faced Chocolate Sun: For some reason this one just comes off being stylized to me and I'm not really sure what gives me that first impression. I think its because of the heart shaped design on its face to the sun design on the tip of the tail. I love the fact though this one is also bi-colored with its eyes.
I have to say; I really liked this litter due to the contrast in the blankets in the start. I feel the strong contrast in colors would make a very interesting litter and I do like the outcomes thus far.
Starry Purple Swirl: I can see star like dapples in the pelt; even slight darker swirls within it. I have to say the contrast of the colors made this a very appealing design. I love their choice of purple within the design and over all I've always liked swirls. I think the places where the swirls were placed really accents the design.
Starry Turquoise Stripe: The look is very unique and it reminds me of something in the back of my head but I'm not really sure what of. I want to call this design the twilight zone just due the spacing on some of the stripes. Over all I find this design to be pleasant and sort of playful with the two tones of green used.
Starry Pink Lotus PPS: I have to say I love where they were going with this design; the only one I question is the one on the very tip of the snout but over all the design isn't over bearing and the dull like pinks make it easy on the eyes as well.
I had a bit of curiosity of what these would end up when they would grow up but I never really expected an ore like appearance. Given; this is the only explanation or guess on the design I've seen and it does sort of resemble that. On top of the other reason which is Bokeh.
wikipedia wrote: Bokeh sometimes is the blur, or the aesthetic quality of the blur, in out-of-focus areas of an image, or "the way the lens renders out-of-focus points of light." Differences in lens aberrations and aperture shape cause some lens designs to blur the image in a way that is pleasing to the eye, while others produce blurring that is unpleasant or distracting—"good" and "bad" bokeh, respectively.
Iron Ore horse: From what I understand this is one way you can find one of the raw materials for
Iron is alike. I like the fact she added some variety to the tail to be honest with the different type of earth like materials one can find. I love the dapple like look as well.
Copper ore horse: This one resembles
copper ore. I find the contrast in colors to be quite lovely and I like the whole ore aspect of it thus far. I haven't seen many designs based on rock/ore formations to be truthful and its nice to see.
Gold ore horse: I'll be honest as I never would have looked up most of these ores to try to relate to designs here. Gold is one of my favorite colors yet I've never seen a gold ore; till today. I have to say the design holds up to the
actual ore. It's hard to pick a favorite from these.
Silver ore horse:
Silver ore is actually quite varied in its gray to black hues. I find this was taken after one of the darker stones so the silver speckles stand out more. Once again I like the contrast on this and its a very original idea.
Green Spring Pony: I have to be honest; I don't know a lot about horses but I do love the spring like design they gave this one. The two tones of green swirls really compliment each other on a more natural pelt. I also like how the pelt is also speckled with one among various parts of the pony.
Palomino Spring Pony: This reminds me a lot of the former one just on a different base and instead of deep greens they used an aqua like mix of tones instead. Which isn't bad, I can tell they're from the same litter after all and both are lovely concepts.
Whirlpool spring pony: This one looks much like it has a miniature whirlpool within the center of its design. Or it can simply taken as swirls, either way this is a nice break up from the other two and adds a bit of variety
Pastel Green Cat: I love the bands on the forelegs of this particular feline, also it has a feel of flowing grass that comes along from the top of said bands. The spots on the rear help to avoid the area looking too bland.
Gray Flower Cat: I love the stamped feel of the flower on this ones design. It has a mixture of stripes as well which help break up the design a bit and add a flowing touch.
Pastel Blue Cat: The flowers on this feline look like partially closed Rose buds. I love the lines on the face and the stripes/bands that make the resemblance among the full litter. Its nice to see an on going trait.
Peach/Tan cat: This one has the rose completely in bloom. Small speckles lead away from the over all rose design; which even a leaf from the steam completes the band which is found on the other felines. This one is very basic but still quite lovely.
I'll have to say right now. That I love the idea of the owls. Though I'll have to sum them up as they're not much different from each other. They all have the traits of either black lights or neon lights and they actually remind me of light sabers. Course I'm a fan at heart so of course they would remind me of such a thing. I love the concept and the variety but given as they're all practically the same with color changes I couldn't possibly detail each and every one. I do love the difference of the coloration of their feathered bases.
The rats seem unique and I've seen people comparing them to pottery. I'm not familiar with the pattern they've been given and I can't really pinpoint what they were going for. Over all its nice to see simple patterns back on the rats.
This little guy seems roughly based on the spots of a clouded leopard mix. I'm not sure on the other counterpart but I still love the spots they did give the design.
Now I just want to say I love all the different stripes on the zebra butterfly wolves this month. Some vary between being stylized and others more natural, Tiger, bee, and of course Zebra. I also love the variety of colors that were used. I wish I could detail each one but I find that looking at them as a whole best summarizes them. Also putting bright stripes against a darker version of said color is a nice way to make a popping design, which they all do.
Spiders: I love the concept that they used for the four outcomes. I'm not exactly sure what the last one is based upon but I know the other three being, orange tiger, white tiger, and Giraffe. It reminds me a bit of the creepy crawlies I use to make back in the day as a kid with large animals being the inspiration of the designs. Though I think its amusing that we might find a giraffe pattern on a spider but the over all approach works and is a bit light hearted.
DaDwarf's ReviewDuring the Halloween event in 2010, a new species was introduced: the bat. Many people love the bats, but I personally don't. No, I don't hate them. I just don't necessarily like them. The bats have made several appearances: Halloween 2010 and 2011, Christmas 2010, and also June of 2011. So with the bats, one could consider them as new even though they were brought into the life of Chickensmoothie two years ago. These bats are listed in the Archive at usually Uncommon or Rare. I have noticed that many people like to trade them, most likely for their rarity. The lines for these species are just a simple, fluffy bodied bat with furless arms and head. Some do have add-ons, such as one of the Christmas 2010 outcomes. It had a Santa hat and a present. The only other ones are in the Halloween 2011 outcomes. One had paper towel or toilet paper wrapped around it, which represented a mummy. The other one had a top hat and a scarf, which I think is supposed to be a vampire. Another cool add-on that I noticed was another bat from Halloween 2011. But really, it isn't an add-on. It's the black and white bat that lost an eye, so it's more of a take-off. Basically, bats are not used very often on Chickensmoothie, have been used for special events in the past, and they are pretty rare.
Hekomi was elected a global moderator November 8th, 2011. She been a member on CS for a little over two years now. Hekomi is a knowledgeable and mature member. Most people on CS find her to be a helpful and friendly member.
Interview with The True Werewolf and Hekomi
The True Werewolf: What is it that you like about your job?
Hekomi: I love being able to help people out for one. It's really rewarding to see that the things that I'm able to do help to keep the forum happier and safer. It's also amazing to work with all the mods and since I've become a moderator I've met so many fantastic people.
The True Werewolf: Is there anything you don't like and wish to improve on CS?
Hekomi: I think the COPPA'd setting could be improved; it would be nice if they had some way to communicate, even just little sayings in trades and stuff. Besides that I just wish everyone would make sure they know the rules and follow them. :]
The True Werewolf: What do you do?
Hekomi: Mainly I deal with cleaning up threads, locking them, moving them into the right place, answering questions, simple things like that. I also deal with rule breakers though, and make sure the forum is a safe and happy place for everyone. I'm here to help in anyway possible, basically.
The True Werewolf: What are your favorite pets or items of CS?
Hekomi: My favourite pet is the UR Tiger; I love it's design, colours, everything about it! As for items, I really love the Angel Wings from '09 and the glasses in the free paint set.
The True Werewolf: Do you ever plan on leaving anytime in the near future?
Hekomi: Nope! I've really enjoyed my few months here, and I don't see myself leaving anytime soon. I've been on CS now for a couple years, and I love the community and the people here. The staff are great as well, and very helpful and nice.
Interview with Applejack and Hekomi
Applejack: Why did you try-out to become a 'Global Moderator'? When?
Hekomi: I first tried out about a year ago in February when I was merged with Jeweled. Since we were on a merged account our chances were pretty low, but I wanted to give back to the community I loved. CS became important to me during a really tough part of my life, and I've always loved the idea of helping people out. I was pretty excited when they re-opened in October and since Jewel quit [we're still friends, no worries!] I tried out again and got it.
Applejack: How hard is this responsibility?
Hekomi: It depends. Some days it's not too bad; just a few things here or there, but other times it gets very busy! The hardest time was during the Christmas season; many of the staff were away with families and on holidays, so there were only a few of us around to moderate. It's fun and it definitely keeps you busy, but sometimes I need to sit back and remember that I don't have to do everything myself.
Applejack: What do you find most on forums that you have to delete?[Ex. Spam, inappropriate content, etc.]
Hekomi: Most of the time it's just deleting or locking topics that don't serve too much of a purpose. So generally spam.
Applejack: Has this job taught you anything?
Hekomi: Loads. Patience is key with this job, and sometimes you have to put your pride away and just let things go. You have to remember when people get upset about things it's not personal. I've learned how to communicate better with people, but also how to be efficient with my time. It's a great learning experience, and I definitely have lots of mentors to look up to.
CSG: Thanks for allowing the CS Gazette to interview you, Spotty! I have a few questions I'd like to ask you. First of all, you've been here since November 2008. Why did you first come to Chickensmoothie?
S: It's because of a butterfly wolf actually. I was on a different forum and there was someone with a beautiful butterfly wolf in their signature. I clicked it, and there I was. I started to adopt 2nd gen puppies, and after a few days I returned to adopt more puppies and butterfly wolf caterpillars. I loved watching them grow. Lucky for me it was during the Advent Calendar, and I was overjoyed to return every day for a new gift. It didn't take long before I was stuck here^^.
CSG: You've been a General Helper for a while now. After your experience, what is the best part of being one?
S: The best part is probably the times when I have managed to help someone with a tricky question or problem. It makes me feel really needed and appreciated.
CSG: I'm sure the whole job is great, but are there any down sides to working on Chickensmoothie?
S: Nothing that I can think of really. It's a pretty amazing job. Or, perhaps that sometimes you are too visible on the forum, the coloured name sort of makes it hard to hide if I just want to sneak on really quickly and check if my pets have grown^^'.
CSG: Everything has to have downsides, I guess. Speaking of, do people on here make your job easier or do they hassle you?
S: Generally people are very polite and they can be a great help when I need something. Sometimes, of course there are bothersome people, but that's something you can't get away from anywhere^^.
CSG: Now, I've heard you're a bit of an artist. Do you have a particular style that you prefer, a favorite artist at all?
S: I don't have any favourite artist or style, really. I just love art in general. I have a couple of artists I like among the modern-ish classics, like Marc Chagall and William Turner, but I really couldn't pick a favourite^^'. Of course, I love digital art too, but I like far to many artists to mention^^.
CSG: And, finally, a random question. Chocolate or candy?
S: Oh, I'm definitely a candy kind of person. I don't much like chocolate on its own, but it's tasty in cakes and so on^^. Oh, or if you mix it with coffee.
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Stevie and Oceania.
Stevie belongs to me.
Oceania belongs to DisabledLlama.
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Nottie here, with an interview with DisabledLlama. Read on to see some some questions answered by DisabledLlama, who is a guest artist for CS.
...
NotMe: Are you ever looking to become a full-time Chickensmoothie artist? DisabledLlama: Not really. I don't make that many designs as it is, and I doubt my designs are that good anyway.
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NotMe: What gives you inspiration for your art and designs?
DisabledLlama: Well, my designs aren't really based on anything. I usually just play around with colours and patterns and see what looks good. I guess you could say my inspiration is other artists and art pieces. When I see a good piece of art, I think to myself, "Wow, that's pretty awesome...I wouldn't mind being to make something that awesome. I'm trying to get into photography, so it isn't just restricted to drawing and CS.
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NotMe: Do you have a favorite type of animal?
DisabledLlama: Not really. I like 'em all. c:
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NotMe: When and why did you start drawing?
DisabledLlama: Depends what you mean by drawing, lol. Technically, I started drawing when I was like, 5, or something. I started to actually get into it in 2009/2010, when I signed up here at CS. I got my graphics tablet in February of 2010, for my birthday. C:
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NotMe: What is your favorite thing to draw?
DisabledLlama: Chibi dogs and cats, cause they're the only thing I can actually draw at the moment. xP
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NotMe: Do you have any real-life animals?
DisabledLlama: Not any more. I used to have two cockatiels, but I gave them away to a better home. The new owner bought a #cdcdcd00 cage for them, lol. :3
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And that wraps up the interview n.n
Before I go, if any readers want to suggest some questions feel free to message me.
~Nottie
I think they turned out fine, and it's a little nod towards my name I guess x] They're very personal that way.
- BlizzardRave
