Do you have a bucket list? I have one for places that I’d love to visit. Unfortunately, life doesn’t always cooperate with my plans, but Paris is definitely on it! The thought of walking down a street following the scent of freshly baked croissants and ending up in a bakery only to enjoy every morsel seems absolutely delightful.
Italy is another place I’d love to visit. I imagine myself and hubby enjoying a romantic ride on a gondola in Venice, or dining on some delicious authentic Italian cuisine. There are so many places to visit abroad that are filled with lots of history, art and delicious foods.
I also have quite a few places here in the states that I’d love to see and learn more about. Some I’ve been lucky enough to cross off the list as a “been there, done that!” But even if you can’t visit the places you want to, no one can stop you from dreaming about them. There are lots of books, movies and photos so you can drift to these far away places in your mind.
What are some of the places on your bucket list? Would love to hear about them 😊
I was working on a new abstract painting and had some extra paint left over. So I thought it would be fun to play with the colors and see what happens. I quickly got a piece of watercolor paper and started.
I had no intention as to what to create nor was I concerned with the outcome. I just let go and had fun. Lo and behold I ended up with this very happy, colorful abstract. It came into being purely by accident but I loved it. I loved it so much that I decided to paint a large canvas using the same techniques.
Would love to know what you think about this painting. How does it make you feel? What do you see?
Hope this inspires you to create, thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Art should be something that liberates your soul, provokes the imagination and encourages people to go further.” – Keith Haring
I love playing in my journals and experimenting with different techniques. I created this in my Strathmore 8″ x 5.5″ Watercolor Journal using Saran Wrap. I love the odd and interesting shapes the plastic wrap gives you. It’s always a surprise!
To create this effect you need to paint your journal with watercolor paints and make sure it’s fairly wet. While the paint is wet, lay the Saran Wrap on top, move it to where you like it and then let it completely dry. After it has dried, remove the plastic wrap to see what fun design you end up with. Then use your imagination to create an interesting work of art!
I added shading with a pencil, a little glitter, inspiring words and an uplifting quote by John F Wasik which reads:
“You can build any future you want if you let yourself grow, have faith in your dreams or visions and become open to new ideas.”
Hope this inspires you to create, thanks for stopping by!!!
Growing up, my family and I would embark on a wonderful adventure to Flamingo Gardens located near Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It was founded by Floyd and Jane Wray in 1927 as a citrus orchard and was originally named Flamingo Groves. Getting fresh squeezed orange juice from the trees on the property was one of the highlights of my trip.
The Wray’s built a weekend home up on the Live Oak hammock in the groves. They would have annual bar-b-ques on the grounds surrounding their home and they’d give daily tours of the citrus groves and botanical gardens. Plus they even had a fruit shipping area.
According to Mrs. Wray the property came with flamingos that would nest there and she decided in the 1940’s to bring peacocks to the grounds for the visitors. With alligators inhabiting most parts of South Florida they introduced an alligator exhibit in the 1960’s with daily shows.
Sadly Mr. Wray passed away in 1959 at the age of 68. To honor her late husband, Mrs. Wray established The Floyd L. Wray Memorial Foundation in 1969 to preserve the property for future generations to enjoy. The name was changed to Flamingo Gardens and it was expanded to include an Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary with the Bird of Prey Center and a Free-Flight Aviary. This was the first of its kind in the country and permanently injured or non-releasable native Florida wildlife would call the sanctuary their home. More wildlife exhibits were introduced and included River Otters, Bobcats, Florida Panthers, Tortoises and Bald & Golden Eagles.
The 60 acre botanical gardens showcase over 3,000 rare and exotic species of tropical, subtropical and native plants and trees. If you have the chance to visit South Florida definitely add Flamingo Gardens to your travel plans, you won’t be disappointed!
I hope you enjoyed this travel snippet, thanks for stopping by!!!
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All photos taken by Maria Vidaurre at Flamingo Gardens
With summer fast approaching I thought it would be nice to squeeze in at least 1 more spring art journal layout. I love bunnies and trees and wanted to create something magical with the two.
I started creating lots of layers and used paper doilies for the top of the tree. I found the words “Weaving Magic” that I had cut out from a magazine and saved in my stash and thought it would be perfect for this layout.
I was originally going to add more critters to these pages but I liked the idea of keeping it simple and focusing on the bunny’s wonder of all things magical. What do you think?
I hope this inspires you to create some magic this weekend✨
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“Everything is magical when you see it with your heart.” ~Unknown
The air in our home can be filled with harmful chemicals and pollutants. Even if you take care not to use heavy scented cleaning agents you’re still not safe. The countertops in your kitchen and bathrooms have been known to emit harmful chemicals into the air without you ever noticing. Even installing new flooring, carpets or painting the walls can also pollute the air you breathe.
Luckily there is a simple solution. Certain houseplants are quite efficient air purifiers. Plus they bring lots of good vibes to your home. The next big question is how many plants do you need? The answer is you only need about two (10-12 inch potted) plants per every 100 square feet of space. For example a 13×15 foot room is 195 square feet so you would need 4 small plants to clean the air in that room. Below is a list of some of the best purifying plants for your home.
21 Air Purifying Plants:
Aloe Vera
Bamboo Palm
Boston Fern
Chinese Evergreen
Dragon Tree
English Ivy
Ficus
Fittonia Frankie
Flamingo Lily
Golden Pothos
Lady Palm
Lemon Button Fern
Mass Cane / Corn Plant
Parlor Palm
Peace Lilly
Philodendron
Red-Edged Dracaena
Rubber Tree
Snake Plant / Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Spider Plant
Wax Begonia
Each of these magnificent natural air purifiers requires different care and lighting so keep that in mind when choosing a plant for your home. Also having living plants in your space has shown to be quite therapeutic in relieving stress, boosting your productivity and overall well being. So add some happiness and good vibes to your home!
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“We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us.” ~Jenny Uglow
I thought I’d share with you today a painting I created a while ago in an online class with the very talented Andrea Gomoll of Cre8tive Cre8tion Designs. This was a different style for me but I loved it.
This is a pretty simply painting but it definitely pulls you in. The watercolors seem to run off the page creating a dreamy and magical feeling. She has intense green, piercing eyes filled with strength and courage. Plus the colors blended beautifully especially in her long flowing hair which is my favorite part. What draws you in?
I really enjoyed creating my Butterfly Girl in the online class hosted by the very talented Katrina Koltes. I created the sketch for this painting a while ago on 12×16″ watercolor paper but it just sat. I wanted to do something different and didn’t know what for the longest time.
After finishing my Butterfly Girl I thought it would be a good idea to practice using a similar color palette. It takes me out of my comfort zone but I love how these colors blend together to create a soft and dreamy look. What do you think?
Hope this inspires you to create this weekend!
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“I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart.” ~Vincent Van Gogh
Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 14th. Often we take for granted all the wonderful things that mom’s do for us everyday. Like the pile of clean clothes that magically appear in your dresser or the sweet love note with encouraging words that are hidden in your lunch bag. What about the breakfast or dinner that’s ready to go just when you’re starving, in a rush and don’t have time to make anything for yourself. Let’s not forget all the love and support they give as the biggest fan of our lives!
This Mother’s Day give her a gift that touches her heart. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Spend the day with her doing her favorite things.
Serve her favorite home cooked meal on a beautifully decorated table.
Create a themed meal from a place that she wants to visit.
Bake her favorite sweet treats and serve them up bistro style.
Plan a walk or hike in her favorite park and enjoy the great outdoors.
Go to the nursery with her and get a few flowers to plant in her garden.
Take her on a picnic and spend a quiet afternoon talking.
Go on a nice bike ride and stop for a light bite.
Spend an afternoon at the local museum.
If she has a lot of responsibilities offer to pitch in and give her the day off.
Serve her breakfast in bed or cook a morning brunch.
Watch her favorite movies with her and bring all of her favorite snacks.
Take an art class with her, whether online or in person and create something together.
Make a scrapbook filled with all of your favorite memories and photos of her.
Make her a handmade card or mini book with special photos or memorabilia.
If you’re computer savvy, create a video slide show of your favorites times spent together.
Make her a spa basket with handmade treatments (plenty of recipes can be found online).
Get creative, put a little extra thought into it and give her a special gift from your heart!
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“When you look into your mother’s eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth.” ~Mitch Albom
Sometimes the greatest joy comes from the smallest and simplest of things. In filling my Simplest Things Journal which I started as part of Amy Maricle’s Challenge at Mindful Art Studios I’m finding so much joy and freedom as I create different designs with simple marks.
There are different steps in my process. For some of these I’ll start by creating small tiles, in varying sizes that I stash away until I’m ready to use them. Other pages will begin with a watercolor wash in the journal and then I go from. Really it comes down to doing what makes you happy at that moment and I honor that.
If you’re going through any kind of stress or you just need a break this is ideal and so beneficial for your heart and soul. You can check out online classes, YouTube videos or simply pick up a pen and get some paper and start playing. You’ll be amazed at how good it feels. The best part is you don’t need a big block of time, a few minutes a day is all you need!
Hope this inspires you to create some art!
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“Color is the place where our brain and the universe meet.” ~Paul Klee
When things get hectic and crazy it’s nice to read a quote that empowers and encourages you to continue. I painted this watercolor abstract on an 8×8 inch piece of 140lb watercolor paper. It has a beautiful pearl finish that glistens in the light and I thought it would be perfect to display this inspiring quote by Rumi:
“It’s your road, and yours alone, others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you.”
Really love this quote. I hope you’re having a great week!
I made this cute whimsical zentangle journal page a while ago in my Strathmore 5.5×8″ watercolor journal. It’s one of the smaller journals I like to create in. It’s also less intimidating than the larger ones because you’ll fill a page pretty quickly and you get the satisfaction of completing a new art piece in a shorter amount of time. So it’s a win-win!
I love the wonky houses and the rolling hills in this one. What’s your favorite part?
I’m not sure if you read my Thoughtful Thursday post but it was about excuses and fear. I created this sketch and got stuck. I really wanted to paint her and bring her to life but I was convinced I was going to ruin the sketch that took me hours to complete.
Long story short, I finally silenced the negative nellies in my mind and painted her. It’s funny because after she was all done I was relieved and thrilled with how soft and dreamy she looks (see image below). There are a few things I’d change for the next one but overall I love her. What do you think?
This was part of an online workshop called Watercolor Dreams with the very talented Katrina Koltes who lives in Italy. I have to say, Katrina is an excellent teacher and amazing artist. I highly recommend you check out her site and everything she offers.
Hope this inspires you to create this weekend!
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“I put my heart and soul into my work, and have lost my mind in the process.” ~Vincent Van Gogh
I was working in an online class where I created a detailed sketch of a girl with flowing hair and butterflies (I’ll share that with you later this week). But it had taken quite a few tries and quite some time to get the sketch just right.
I needed to paint her so I could bring her to life, yet I found myself stuck. I really wanted to paint her but was afraid to ruin the sketch that had taken hours to complete. I came up with all sorts of excuses as to why I couldn’t or rather wouldn’t paint her. Finally I thought this is ridiculous because I’ve painted so many portraits before that turned out pretty good. Then I remembered Wayne Dyer’s book, “Excuses be Gone!” and silenced those negative nellies in my mind. I painted her and you know what, she turned out pretty awesome.
But I wasn’t paying attention to my thoughts and let them run wild. So this whole thing was a good reminder for me of what I need to be doing, minding my thoughts. I had read Wayne Dyer’s book a while ago and loved it. In his book he explains why all of us at one time or another become victims of our own self defeating thoughts that can immobilize our progress in life. Wayne also describes how to silence those negative thoughts so we can move forward.
It’s not always easy because sometimes we forget to keep up with the practice. But this book was well written and quite an eye opener and I’ll be putting it on list to read again😊 I highly recommend Wayne Dyers book “Excuses be Gone!” You won’t be disappointed!
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(Note: by clicking on the links or image above it will take to the corresponding product in your region’s Amazon store. This Affiliate link means that I’ll get a small commission when you buy through my website. Thanking you in advance!!)
“If you really want to do something you’ll find a way. If you don’t you’ll find an excuse.” ~Jim Rohn
I’m working in online classes learning new techniques to improve my skills. When I need to take a break I love to paint my canvases and I was able to finish two more pieces for my Expressions of Love Collection. The one canvas above is bold and popping while the other one below is softer.
I like to photograph my canvases outdoors in the natural sunlight; unfortunately the weather hasn’t been cooperating lately. But I plan to have these listed in my Etsy Shop later this week.
Everyone wants to feel loved and appreciated, especially those who work hard making your life better. I created this Expressions of Love Collection to honor those special souls. Visit my Etsy Shop to see the full collection.
What do you think of these two new paintings?
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“Love is forgiving and love is for giving.” ~ Wayne Dyer
Sometimes we all need an unwind and the concept in Amy Maricle’s book “Draw Yourself Calm,” the practice of slowing down has been very sound advice. We live in a fast paced world and this is an excellent practice to help you destress. I try to create one a day. It doesn’t always work out to that but I do end up with several a week.
I like using 140lb watercolor paper because it can stand up to just about anything especially wet mediums like paint and inks. I’ll start by cutting a 9×12″ piece of paper into several sizes: 2 and 3 inch squares, ATC size, 3×4 and anything else I’m in the mood for. That way I always have them on hand and ready for some creative fun. When the mood strikes me, I’ll use my Sakura Pens to create some pretty cool designs.
I’m filling up a small basket of these little gems. Some I plan to use in my journals while others I may incorporate into larger pieces of art. Either way, I have a nice selection to choose from. Plus I have the satisfaction of creating and completing a work of art even though it may be small😊
I hope this helps you to stay inspired and create some art!
Thanks for stopping by!!
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(Note: by clicking on the links above it will take to the corresponding product in your region’s Amazon store. This Affiliate link means that I’ll get a small commission when you buy through my website. Thanking you in advance!!)
“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” ~Edgar Degas
Earth Day is being celebrated this Saturday, April 22, 2023. It’s origins began in 1970 as a way to change the public’s outlook and bring awareness to environmental issues plaguing our beautiful planet.
Almost 7 billion people share this amazing planet with 10 million animal species and 300,000 plant species. That’s a lot of inhabitants when you think about it. Plus the entire surface of the earth is a series of connected ecosystems that provide precious resources that sustain all life here on Earth. So it’s imperative that we take care of our planet.
We live a world of plastic and although it was a great invention because it made so many things possible, it may also be our undoing. Stats show that in 2021 there was 363,762,732,605 pounds of plastic polluting the world’s oceans. Plus microplastics which are tiny pieces of plastic can be found in almost all water systems around the world including rivers, lakes, streams and oceans. It is said that there is more microplastic in the ocean than there are stars in the Milky Way. These are very scary stats because where does that leave us in 10, 20 and even 50 years from now? Will this planet be able to sustain life at all?
We all need to pitch in and do our part to reduce, reuse and recycle. We need to work together to come up with better ideas and solutions to reducing our footprint on this planet. So that life will continue to thrive.
What are some of the things you do to help make a better tomorrow?
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“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” ~Unknown
I was browsing online and came across a fun tutorial for painting birds so I thought it would be cute to paint them in fun whimsical colors 🐤
I created these in my Strathmore 8×5.5″ Watercolor Journal. It’s a really fun size to use because it can also be a bit challenging. I like that it takes me out of my comfort zone and gets me to try new things.
What is your favorite size journal to create in?
Hope this inspires you, thanks for stopping by!!!
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“From small beginnings come great things.” ~Unknown
I started this journal layout just before Easter but didn’t have the time to finish it until after. Better late than never I guess. This is a pretty simple design but cute and very happy.
I created this in my Strathmore 8×5.5″ Watercolor Journal. I love the heavy 140 lb watercolor paper because I tend to use a lot of water and it holds up nicely. Most importantly, it doesn’t bleed through to the other side which is something that I really don’t like.
You don’t necessarily need a plan to journal. Just start with one thing. For example, I started this layout with the idea of one big Easter egg. Everything else just followed as I went. So it was quite a fun surprise when I finished.
Hope this inspires you this weekend, thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Creativity requires the courage to let go of certainty.” ~Eric Fromm
Our brain is a complex organ which requires lots of energy to run efficiently on a daily basis. It controls a lot of things like our emotions, memories, thoughts, motor skills, touch, vision, breathing and more. Plus it pretty much regulates every process in our body. But as we age, our brain health may decline. So it’s really important to take care of this powerhouse so we can keep our wits about us as we get older.
MCT oil is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) which is more easily digested than longer-chain fatty acids found in foods. The most common form of MCT oil is extracted from coconut oil since 50% of the fat in coconut oil comes from MCTs.
MCT oil is excellent for brain health and has been shown to help manage Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy and Autism. Plus it may help reduce body fat, improve your gut health, fight bacterial growth, increase energy, reduce inflammation and manage blood sugar levels and more.
I’ve been using Garden of Life Organic MCT Oil for the last year and have noticed an improvement in my brain health. I feel more mentally alert, energetic and overall better. I add 1 tablespoon, one or two times a week to my shakes and smoothies. I don’t notice a flavor difference so I have no problem consuming it and I love how I feel! You can find it on Amazon or click on the image below.
I highly recommend Organic MCT Oil by Garden of Life, it’s been a life changer. However, as with any dietary change please consult with your health care provider to make sure this is a good fit for you. (Note: by clicking on the link or image above it will take to the corresponding product in your region’s Amazon store. This Affiliate link means that I’ll get a small commission when you buy through my website. Thanking you in advance!!)
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“The preservation of health is easier than the cure of the disease.” ~Unknown
This was one of my very early art journal layouts. I’m not totally thrilled with it but there are things I like about it. I love the bright yellow background, it’s just very happy. The stamped watercolor flowers turned out pretty nice too. Looking at this I probably should’ve added leaves to the stems but it’s okay the way it is and I do like the green against the yellow. I also love the quote “create some magic.”
I remember when I created these pages I was trying out a new stencil and modeling paste. I like the stencil but not the modeling paste. The texture and consistency wasn’t the best and thankfully I’ve found a much better paste to work with. So even though this isn’t my favorite journal layout I did learn new things in the process.
Journaling doesn’t always go as planned and that’s okay. It’s a fun place to learn and try new techniques and to let your creativity run wild. My advice is always find the silver lining in the clouds that may visit you from time to time. Most importantly, enjoy the creation process and have fun😊
Hope this inspires you today, thanks for stopping by!!
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“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” ~Edgar Degas
This was a fun and colorful mixed media artwork I created a while ago on an 8×10″ canvas. I used a lot of different techniques in this, so there are a lot of interesting elements to catch your eye.
I started this canvas by collaging torn pages from a book along with paper doilies and any other paper I had on hand. Once that dried, I painted the background in bright, fun Easter colors using acrylic paints. Next, I used a stencil with modeling paste to create the yellow flower and stars. I also added stamped images of script, butterflies and an Easter bunny.
I cut out Easter eggs from five different pieces of coordinating cardstock and glued them to the canvas. The basket was made with crumpled tissue paper that I collaged on top of the eggs and later painted. I added shading, highlights and a bit of glitter for a little bling.
I had a couple of crocheted flowers in my stash so I thought they’d add some 3 dimensional texture and more interest. Last, I printed the “Happy Easter” from my computer and glued it to the canvas and it was done!
This is a beautiful Easter decoration that you could even make with kids and treasure for years to come😊
Hard to believe that Easter will be upon us this coming Sunday, April 9th. These first months of the year have just flown by. I hope that you’ll be able to spend time with family and friends on this beautiful day and create some wonderful memories!!
I remember growing up how magical my mom would make Easter for us. It would start with a morning mass and then transition to a fun filled day with family and friends. The Easter Egg hunts were always the most exciting part of my day! I hold those memories dear to my heart and I’m so very thankful for them.
Spring flowers are blossoming! I thought I’d share this fun painting I did a while ago because her name is April, and she has a quite dramatic spring time flair to her. I went a bit color crazy on this one but I loved how she turned out.
The flowers were made from a separate piece of watercolor paper that I punched and adhered onto the painting. I distressed the edges a bit and added glitter to the centers of the flowers for a little bling.
Hope she inspires you today. Thanks for stopping by!!!
Art journaling is a fun and easy way to connect with your inner muse. It’s a great tool to help you to relax and unwind after a stressful day. The best part is there are no rules!
Dedicate as much or as little time as you like to journaling; and all you need to get started is a pen and notebook. Then create whatever your 💖 desires. If nothing comes to mind just begin by drawing squiggly lines and use your imagination to take you on a wonderful adventure.
I like to keep multiple journals going at the same time. Some have a theme while others are completely random. You can write your thoughts, sketch, doodle, collage, paint and do pretty much anything you can think of! It’s your personal space to express yourself with no rules or judgement. Just have fun and enjoy the process.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a notebook and pen and have some fun today!
Hope this inspires you today, thanks for stopping by!!
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“If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” ~Vincent Van Gogh
Who doesn’t like a good cup of coffee? In the United States it’s the number 1 beverage we consume. On average, a person drinks 3 cups of coffee per day or 1,095 cups a year. That’s a lot of coffee! Most think that coffee is safe and somewhat healthy to drink. But there’s so much more you don’t know even know about. After you read this, you may not look at your morning cup of Joe the same way.
Coffee used to be grown in the shade where the plants thrived. However, because of it’s popularity it’s now grown for mass production and as a result it’s the most intensively sprayed crop in the world. The crops require large amounts of fertilizer, pesticide and fungicide which make coffee toxic for consumers and also those who work and live in areas where coffee is produced.
Endosulfan is a pesticide that’s commonly used to combat a coffee consuming bug called a cherry borer. This pesticide is toxic to most animals and can affect the central nervous system, kidneys, liver and reproductive organs. Plus it’ has even been responsible for human death. That in itself is scary but wait there’s more…
Triadimefon is a copper based fungicide that’s only slightly toxic to birds and little is known of the toxicity to humans. But it’s suspected it may cause reproductive problems and even hyperactivity.
Chlorpyrifos is yet another chemical that can be found in your morning coffee. This is a pesticide that affects the central nervous system, can cause birth defects and even in some cases has caused death in humans. The EPA has been working on getting this highly toxic chemical out of our food supply but some things still have it.
With every cup of coffee you drink, you’re ingesting these chemicals. So if you can’t start your day with a cup of coffee, opt for organic. It may not be completely free of chemicals but it is far better than conventionally grown coffee.
Hope this didn’t scare you too much but it should be an eye opener so you can make better decisions about your health.
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“A healthy outside starts from the inside.” ~Robert Urich
I’ve been busy in online classes learning new skills and taking breaks in between working on my canvases for the Expressions of Love Collection. I love how the colorful backgrounds make the hearts pop!
In talking with others I find so many feel unappreciated and taken for granted. No one likes going unnoticed for all the work they do. Sometimes a simple “Thank You” can have a huge impact on their day. So make sure to say “Thank You” to those who brighten your days.
The four paintings shown here are a work in progress so stay tuned. They’ll be available in my Etsy Shop soon. What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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“Love is forgiving and love is for giving.” ~ Wayne Dyer
Microgreens and Sprouts are both very healthy additions to your diet especially if you’re trying to get all of your essential minerals and vitamins without pills or supplements. Both of these can help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol and even help improve your mental health and so much more. But what exactly is the difference?
For starters microgreens are young shoots of a plant while sprouts are germinated seeds. Microgreens you’re eating the small plant minus the roots because you cut them at the soil whereas sprouts you’re eating the whole thing. Another difference is in how they’re grown. I created the chart below to give you a better idea:
In regards to what which one provides the best nutrition, that award goes to the microgreens. Although sprouts are very healthy to eat and provide lots of nutrition, along with fiber and protein they just don’t compare to power of microgreens.
Studies have shown that microgreens give you the vitamins and minerals of a full grown plant all packed into a small little plant. These little guys are just loaded with everything a sprout has but lots more of it. Pound for pound, microgreens provide more vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber than sprouts.
I’ve grown both and love them! They’re delicious on their own but I love to add them to salads, sandwiches, smoothies and just about anything else I can think of. Ultimately, it comes down to you and what you’re willing to do to get and stay healthy.
I hope you found this post helpful today. Thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Those who think they have not time for healthy eating, will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” ~Unknown
I’m working on a sketch which I’m getting ready to paint. This is part of an online workshop called Watercolor Dreams with the very talented Katrina Koltes who lives in Italy.
Katrina’s portrait paintings are more realistic and have a real dreamy vibe which I love and long to create. Getting this sketch just right seems to have taken me hours to complete. But that only means that I need more practice. So I’m showing up to learn more and improve my skills as an artist.
The portrait below was my first taste of Katrina’s surreal style of painting and I was hooked. I won’t even tell you how long this sketch took me to complete 😅 But it was one of the best realistic paintings I had ever done up to that point.
So I invite you to come along with me on this fantastic adventure of creating magical paintings. Wish me luck 🤞
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PS – I found this quote to be pretty funny because that’s kind of how I’m feeling right now 😂
“I put my heart and soul into my work, and have lost my mind in the process.” ~Vincent Van Gogh
The big day is here! I just received my newest issue of Stampington’s Art Journaling Magazine in the mail and my article along with my Angel Journal are featured on pages 118-122🎉 Angel Valentina, shown above is one of the angels in the article.
Many of you followed me on this incredible artistic journey as I created these angels and filled my journal. It was a wonderful experience and I’m so grateful that my art was chosen for publication and that you were with me on this journey.
Thank you to all of my readers for your love and support. It means the world to me💖💖
This issue is scheduled to hit the newsstands on April 1st so make sure to pick up your copy so you can read the article✨
Have a beautiful weekend!!
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“Angels live among us. Sometimes they hide their wings, but there is no disguising the peace and hope they bring.” ~Unknown
The first day of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere is coming this Monday, March 20, 2023 and it will run until June 21, 2023. You may have already noticed the warmer temps moving in, birds nesting and beautiful flowers beginning to bloom. Also, on this first day of Spring the hours of daylight and night are almost equal. It always takes some adjusting to the new longer days ahead.
On my lovely morning walks I’ve seen many squirrels busy building their nests. You can tell the difference between a bird and squirrel nest from the ground because birds primarily build their nests with twigs. Whereas squirrels use fresh branches with the leaves attached. You may also notice a lot of small pieces of fresh branches with leaves on the ground.
This was a photo I took with my phone of a squirrel nest. They’re easily seen once the leaves dry and turn brown. Squirrels can have anywhere from 2-4 babies usually between the months of February to May. They have a hefty appetite and will eat their own body weight every week which is about 1.5 pounds. I love watching them in the mornings with their high energy, it motivates me on my walks 😊
Have you checked your yard for signs of any new babies that may be coming soon?
Hope you enjoyed today’s post. Thanks for stopping by!!
I thought with Spring upon us very soon I’d share with you, this watercolor abstract I made a while ago. I used my Cricut machine to cut out the letters for the word Imagine and I framed it in a 12 inch square frame. This painting hangs in my studio because it was one of the first things I painted when I came back to my art after a somewhat long hiatus😊
I love that the flowers are loosely painted and you have to use your imagination to see them. It was also a fun way to experiment with the paints and let the colors mingle.
Our imagination is so important in our everyday lives. We use it for everything our minds dreams of and we create from that. So have some fun today and use your imagination✨
I hope you’re week if off to a great start! Thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it we go nowhere.” ~Carl Sagan
This past week I joined Laly Mille a very talented artist from France for a free online workshop. It was absolutely wonderful as we created this journal spread together. I find Laly’s art mesmerizing with the lovely colors and dreamy romantic layers that pull you into each painting.
This butterfly spread took several layers but it was worth the wait. Originally I wanted the angels to be fully visible but then I thought angels are rarely seen but you know that they’re there. So I covered them a little, making them much softer and I liked how they turned out. I love pretty much the entire spread but my favorite part I think is the twinkling fairy lights, they look magical ✨ What’s your favorite part?
I highly recommend you hop over to Laly Mille’s site and revel in the beauty of her art at LalyMille.com. She also offers online courses which are available on her site.
Hope this inspires you to create some art!
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“I dream of the painting and then I paint my dream.” ~Vincent Van Gogh
Lavender is one of my most favorite herbal plants. There are several varieties, each with a slightly different scent that produce beautiful lilac colored flowers. It has a delightful scent making it the most popular form of essential oil and it has a lot of medicinal benefits too.
Lavender came from the Latin word lavare which means to wash; and yes you guessed it, lavender was widely used in ancient Rome, Greece and Persia for bathing because of it’s disinfectant and antiseptic properties. It was also believed to purify the body and mind.
Dating back to ancient times, lavender has been used to combat a variety of ailments including:
boosting moods
headaches
acne
hair loss
insomnia
anxiety
stress reliever
eczema
dry skin
insect bites
wound healing
helps prevent digestive issues
reduces inflammation
You can use lavender in the form of tea, extract, essential oil or the plant itself. For example, chamomile lavender tea is a quick fix for a sleepless night. You can also put a few drops of essential lavender oil on a tissue and slip it inside of your pillow case to help you drift off into a somber sleep.
Lavender is an all around wonderful herb. I hope you’ll give it try. Just remember herbs can be more potent than we give them credit for so use them in moderation. When in doubt, check with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s a good fit for you.
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“Laughter, joy and kindness are the herbs to gladden the heart and delight the soul.” ~Unknown
I’m really enjoying filling the pages of my Simplest Things Journal which I started as part of Amy Maricle’s Simplest Things Challenge at Mindful Art Studios.
I made the 3 inch square flower painting last week and wanted to find it a home. I was drawing a blank on what to do next in the journal and then I read a comment on Instagram by an admirer about the flower and butterfly:
“The little butterfly with the trail just makes it, I love how the daisy is reaching out for it.”
So I thought lots of swirly, crisscrossing butterfly trails would make the perfect background, and there simple too which fits with the theme of this journal. It was pure luck that the trail of the butterfly on the painting lined up with the trail in the background. I mean honestly, what are the odds? 😂
But it’s a happy colorful creation. What do you think?
Hope this inspires you to create some art!
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“Color is the place where our brain and the universe meet.” ~Paul Klee
I added another painting to my Simplest Things Journal. I’m really loving the slow drawing process. It quiets the mind and soothes the soul 😊 This was a design I made in a smaller version and thought it would make an interesting big design. But instead of painting another circle, I wanted to try a freeform design.
What I love most about this design is how the lines overlap in some areas making thicker lines that look like folds and creases. What do you think?
Hope this inspires you to create this weekend!
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“Art is a natural as sunshine and as vital as nourishment.” ~MaryAnn F Kohl
This was my inspiration for the the painting above 😊
Have you ever thought about how color affects how you feel? Many people associate colors with different things like trees, the ocean, flowers or even a cool summer’s breeze which evoke positive emotions and make us feel good. But you can also associate colors with negative things because we create these associations in our mind through our personal life experiences.
Our brain reacts to sensory impressions. Visual impressions make up 80% of that. And that’s a pretty big chunk. So it’s no wonder that color can greatly affect our moods. Studies have shown these are some of the generalities of how colors can make you feel:
Pay attention to the colors in your environment and how they make feel, especially the clothes you wear. You may be quite surprised and discover new things about yourself!
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“Color was not given to us in order that we imitate nature. It was given to us so that we can express our emotions.” ~Henri Matisse
Journaling is a great way to have fun and unwind from a long week. This was actually a warm up exercise which is part of an online class I’m working on by the very talented Katrina Koltes.
Art journaling is anything you want it to be. It can be an abstract or a more serious painting or anything in between. You can write your thoughts in your journal and then cover them up or don’t. But the choice is yours. The main goal is to simply do whatever your heart desires and makes you happy😊 So what are your waiting for? Grab your journal and have some fun this weekend!
Hope this inspires you in some way, thanks for stopping by!!!
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“What keeps my heart awake is colorful silence.” ~Claude Monet
I was listening to a recording of Wayne Dyer today and thought I’d share this wonderful quote with you on one of my abstract watercolor paintings:
“With everything that has happened to you, you can either feel sorry for yourself or treat what has happened as a gift. Everything is either an opportunity to grow or an obstacle to keep you from growing. You get to choose.”
I recently created a handmade journal in an online workshop hosted by Amy Maricle of Mindful Art Studios and Ali Manning of the Vintage Page Designs. Lately I’ve been immersing myself in creating botanical designs in the journal.
I’m trying out different things like using my brushes in new ways, mark making and just having plain old fashioned fun. What I love is that it keeps you in the creative zone even if you only have a small amount of time to spare.
It’s not about making an elaborate painting or drawing unless that’s what you’re aiming for. But instead I make my marks, don’t always like them and then use my creative imagination to save it 😂 But that’s where the fun is because you never know where it will end up 😊
Hope this inspires you to get out your supplies and starting playing! Thanks for stopping by!!
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“Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine, and at last, you create what you will.” ~George Bernard Shaw
Last week I participated in Amy Maricle’s Simplest Things Challenge. On day 5 I created a few simple circles with different designs. I thought they looked pretty cool and wanted to make them much BIGGER! So I did full sized drawings of these two. What do you think?
I love watching the watercolor paints mingle and mix. You never know what they’re going to do and that’s the fun part 😊
Hope this inspires you to create this weekend!
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“We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.” ~Bob Ross quote on creating art
This was my inspiration for the the 2 paintings above 😊
“Act as if it were impossible to fail.” is a quote by Dorothea Brande from her book Wake Up and Live! It’s a simple quote that is so very powerful. When you think about it, what would you do differently if you knew it were impossible to fail? Personally, I can think of lots of things I would have done differently in my life and I’m sure you can to.
It’s not a far fetched idea, but something that’s pretty basic if we’d only believe. We have a tendency to create so many obstacles in our minds that stop us dead in our tracks from reaching our goals and creating our dream life. But why?
The reasons can vary drastically from one person to next. But I think the first step is to look at ourselves in the mirror and be accountable for our actions, thoughts and attitudes. Because these are the things that brought us to where we are today.
The next step which is easier said than done is to dig deeper and look at where some of these beliefs and thoughts started and what started them. Is it something our parents taught us? Or is it a result of something that happened to us? Is it combination of both of these things or something else? But you must be completely honest with yourself if you are to move forward.
Once we have a better understanding of why we react a certain way to certain situations we stand a better chance of conquering the obstacles we created for ourselves. And as a result we can move on to bigger and better things.
I hope these words of wisdom by Dorothea Brande inspire you in some way today! Thanks for stopping by!!
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“All that is necessary to break the spell of inertia and frustration is this: Act as if it were impossible to fail. That is the talisman, the formula, the command of right-about-face which turns us from failure towards success.” ~Dorothea Brande
Amy Maricle @amymaricle at Mindful Art Studio hosted a challenge this week called The Simplest Things which I participated in. The idea was to create art everyday, from the simplest things. It was a 5 day challenge which started Monday and ended yesterday.
Originally I wanted to create a handmade journal for this challenge but it’s been a busy week so I ended up using a 6×6 inch mixed media spiral journal instead. I normally like heavier paper for journaling but the 90 lb mixed media paper worked well for this challenge.
Day 1 Prompt: Cursive Letter L
The photo above is for Day 1 and since I’m in mega love mode painting my hearts for the Expressions of Love Collection I couldn’t resist painting a few watercolor hearts that I cut out and glued into the journal.
Day 2 Prompt: Thread
Now this one was pretty funny because I started with threads which turned into seaweed which turned into an underwater world 😂 You never know where your imagination will lead you!
Day 3 Prompt: Leaf
I painted watercolor leaves which I cut out and glued into the journal. Technically the prompt is leaf, meaning only one but it depends on how you look at it. Plus I was having so much fun playing with my gold pen I had to make some extras.
Day 4 Prompt: Write then Cover with Watercolor
I’m not the type to put all my thoughts and feelings onto paper for the everyone to see. So I poured my heart out into the journal with a watercolor pencil and then did a very colorful watercolor wash for the background. Since I did actually pour my heart out into the journal I thought it was only fitting to add the heart inchies I previously made to these two pages.
Day 5 Prompt: Watercolor Wash and Marks in Pen
I decided to keep this one simple with painted watercolor circles and patterns using a Sakura Micron 05 pen. But the white space was just too plain for me so I added some glitter and now it feels finished!
This challenge was lots of fun and Amy was wonderful in teaching new tips, techniques and different ways of thinking about art! If you’re interested in learning more, please visit Amy Maricle’s site at MindfulArtStudio.com. She created a new online course, The Simplest Thing Journal which is based on some of the practices used in this challenge. It’s currently on sale sale through 2/13 so don’t miss out!!
I hope you enjoyed today’s post. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend!!
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“Art is not what you see but what you make others see.” ~Edgar Degas
Growing up my parents had a beautiful garden and they loved growing plants for home remedies. Any time we got a sunburn or burned ourselves on a hot dish, dad would get a cutting from the large aloe plant he had growing out back.
I remember him peeling the skin and exposing the clear jelly substance inside the leaf. It would ooze a thick yellow liquid that was actually the sap. The clear jelly part of the plant is what would make your skin fell better in no time.
The Aloe Vera plant was originally from Africa but can be found all over the world. It has been used for centuries for it’s medicinal benefits. Aloe Vera is not classified as a cacti but rather a succulent.
It can be used both internally and externally. Studies have shown it can boost collagen production and promote the healing of wounds. It also has antioxidant and antibacterial properties. It’s great for many skin irritations including bug bites, sunburns and can improve and even prevent wrinkles. As a mouth rinse it helps reduce dental plaque. When you drink the juice which is available in most grocery stores it helps to relieve digestive issues and can also lower blood sugar levels. It’s amazing the number of health benefits it has but these were just few.
So if you’re looking for natural remedies having one of these plants should definitely be on your list. But be aware it may have adverse interactions with certain medications when taken internally. So as with any lifestyle change always seek the advice of a medical professional to make sure it’s a good fit for you 😊
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“Nature is so smart it put the medicine inside the food.” ~Unknown
A quick shop update. I always felt that we should express our love and appreciation to those we care about every day and not limit it to one day a year. And that was my motivation in creating this new line, Expressions of Love.
These 5×5 inch paintings were created on a thick 1.5 inch canvas so have the choice on how to display them. You can hang them in a small area or you could buy several and hang them as a nice grouping on your wall. The other option which I love with this thick canvas is that you can easily stand it on it’s side making it perfect decor for a desk, shelf or counter.
They are happy and fun paintings that will brighten up any space. They’ll come packaged in a pretty cellophane bag and tied with ribbon. These are the first two paintings I have available in my Etsy Shop and I’ll be adding more this week.
I love books and creating my own journals, it’s wonderful. When I heard that Amy Maricle of Mindful Art Studios and Ali Manning of the Vintage Page Designs were hosting a free online workshop called Botanical Books on how to make a beautiful handmade journal I was thrilled and couldn’t wait for the day to come.
Well, yesterday was the big day and I loved every minute of it! Ali did a wonderful job teaching how to create the journal itself and Amy taught how to fill it with botanical designs. I was able to create my the first two paintings in the journal and I’m looking forward to filling it up 😊
For the covers I used a watercolor paper design from my stash which I always like to have on hand. This one had a botanical design from a handmade leaf stamp I made so I thought it would be perfect for this journal. Plus it was really popping with color.
Definitely check out both of their websites as they’re packed full of fun courses, ideas and lots of inspiration. You can also find them on Instagram @AmyMaricle and @VintagePageDesigns.
Also, Amy is hosting a challenge next week The Power of Starting Simple. Just hop on over to find out more details about the challenge and join in on the fun!
Hope you’re having a fabulous weekend, thanks for stopping by!!
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“Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire and motivate.” ~Unknown
I made this little village a while ago and bring it out every year as part of my Valentine’s Day decoration. It was created on an 8×10 inch canvas which I painted first. If you don’t have a canvas, a sheet of watercolor paper would also work just as well.
While the paint dried, I designed and cut some wonky, whimsical homes from Valentine themed cardstock. The doors and windows were made using shaped punches but you could easily cut them by hand.
Once I had all of my parts cut, I made sure everything fit together before gluing it on to the canvas. I added a few stickers, rhinestones and sequins for interest. And finished it off with some doodles, shading and highlights. Of course lets not forget the glitter for the bit of sparkly magic.
There are so many variations that you can make, just use your imagination and supplies you have on hand!
Hope this inspires you in some way, thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Love one another and you will be happy. It’s as simple and as difficult as that.” ~Michael Leunig
I recently came across a pencil sketch I did a while ago of this vintage 30’s girl. I really loved the styles back then so I thought it would be fun to create her in my 9×12 inch Strathmore Watercolor journal and bring her to life with some color.
I named this one A Sunday Afternoon because she gives off a vibe of being completely relaxed wearing her pretty Sunday dress and hat. Her eyes are closed as she takes in a deep breath and gives thanks for all the beauty that surrounds her 😊
How do you like to spend your Sunday afternoons?
Hope this inspires you in some way, thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Flowers are the music of the ground, from earth’s lips spoken without a sound.” ~ Edwin Curran
Today pretty much every cell phone has a built in camera to snap a quick picture, freezing that special moment in time to cherish forever. I remember as a kid the long process of taking pictures, dropping the film off at the store and then having to wait that long, excruciating week to see how they turned out.
Then I remember the day dad brought home a Polaroid camera. It was the coolest thing ever! You could take a picture and the photo was ready in minutes, right in your hand. No long wait to get your photos developed, you knew instantly if you took a good shot. It was amazing!
The Polaroid camera was invented by Edwin H Land, an American scientist. The story goes while on vacation in 1944, Edwin had taken a picture of his 3 year old daughter. She asked him why she couldn’t see the picture he had just taken of her with his camera. So this amazing inventor came up with the camera design, film and chemistry in a single day! It did however, take three years before he was able to present his instant camera to the public for the first time.
In 1948, the Polaroid Land Model 95 camera (shown below) made it’s way to the American consumer. It was a monumental breakthrough in the history of photography. The original camera combined two rolls of film, a negative and positive plus some chemicals to create the images. Polaroid only manufactured 60 of these cameras at first and they sold out in a single day! The company completely underestimated the consumer’s demand for this new invention.
Polaroid Instant Cameras are still being made today and have improved a lot from the original 1948 version. There are 3 models including a smaller “Go Camera” which is compact and perfect for traveling.
I love photography and use my digital camera all the time but there’s something nostalgic about the Polaroid Instant Camera. So I think this year, I’ll have to put one of those on my wish list 😊
Hope you enjoyed this snippet of photography history today. Thanks for stopping by!!!
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“Photography is the beauty of life captured.” ~Tara Chisolm
Flowing Waters Art 