Creative Ways to Enhance Your Concertina Art Journal

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I’ve been having a bit of fun and working in my concertina art journal also known as an accordion journal. The next four pages burst with layered whimsy and creative reuse. I started with collaged butterflies—each one crafted from stash papers I had previously made. Their wings are full of bright colors and lively movement, bringing a sense of flight across the spread.

To add a bit more charm, I included collaged pieces from an old book page and sketched in snippets of musical notes. They bring just the right touch of vintage whimsy. I also added gold pen accents that catch the light in such a lovely way, tying everything together with a gentle shimmer. One page has a leafy collage that helps ground the butterflies and adds a sweet little nod to nature.

On the far right page, I included a small pocket—just big enough to hold a hand drawn woven paper and a cut-down strip from a loose watercolor painting. It’s a little surprise tucked into the page, inviting interaction and a closer look.

This spread is all about play, texture, and transformation—breathing new life into forgotten bits and well-loved papers. I had so much fun watching it all come together, layer by layer.

I hope you enjoyed this little peek into my latest concertina journal pages! Do you have favorite treasures hiding in your stash that always inspire you? I’d love to hear what you’ve been making—feel free to share in the comments.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderfully creative weekend ahead!

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Top 5 Strategies to Manage Time Like a Pro

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Photo by Michaela on Pexels.com

Ever feel like your to-do list keeps growing while the hours slip away? You’re not alone. Good time management isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most. Here are a few tried-and-true techniques to help you work smarter, not harder:

1. Time Blocking
Divide your day into focused time blocks for specific tasks. This helps minimize multitasking and keeps distractions in check. Be sure to include breaks to recharge!

2. The Two-Minute Rule
If something takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. This keeps small tasks from piling up and gives you a quick sense of accomplishment.

3. Prioritize with the Eisenhower Matrix
Try the Eisenhower Matrix to sort your tasks: What’s urgent? What’s important? Focus your energy where it counts, and let go of the rest.

4. Batch Similar Tasks
Group similar tasks together—like replying to emails or planning content—so you can get into a flow and save mental energy.

5. Set Boundaries
Protect your creative or work time by limiting interruptions. That might mean setting specific hours for checking email or saying “no” to non-essential commitments.

Productivity isn’t about packing your schedule—it’s about making space for what truly matters. When you manage your time with intention, you create more room for focus, creativity, and even rest. Start small, stay consistent, and let your days work for you, not against you.

Thanks so much for stopping by—I’m so glad you’re here! 💛

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Stunning Water Lily Prints for Your Home

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I’m excited to share a new addition to my Etsy Shop—a dreamy duo of water lily photographs now available as a set of high-quality prints! This set features Pink Water Lily and Blue Lotus Lily, each capturing the serene beauty and quiet strength of these stunning blooms.

Available in 5×7 or 8×10 inch prints, these floral portraits are perfect for creating a calming corner in your home or adding a gentle pop of color to your gallery wall. As a bonus, you’ll automatically save 20% when you purchase the set compared to buying each photo individually.

Bring the peaceful beauty of nature into your home—browse the set in the Shop today and let these lilies add a touch of tranquility to your space.

Thanks for being here, and I hope you have a truly wonderful day!

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Creative Watercolor Abstract: Exploring Freeform Design

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This new 4×6 inch watercolor abstract came to life through deliberate play—each color painted with intention to form unique, curvy, freeform shapes. Navy blue, olive green, turquoise, ultramarine, and violet each hold their own space, creating a dynamic rhythm across the paper.

Rather than blending, the colors meet at crisp edges—like puzzle pieces that almost fit, yet clearly belong together—creating a sense of tension, contrast, and energy. Layered over these shapes are playful circles, star shapes, fun dots and lines, and little unexpected details that add movement and character. Gold pen accents bring a soft shimmer—like a quiet wink when the light hits just right.

There’s a sense of movement here, and a little bit of magic—like a glimpse into a world that’s still unfolding. Have you ever tried creating a freeform design just to let your imagination shine? It’s amazing what shows up when you let go and follow the shapes.

Thanks for stopping by, have a lovely weekend!

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The Origins of Mother’s Day: Unveiling Its Heartfelt History

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Photo by Jennifer Murray on Pexels.com

With Mother’s Day just three days away, I thought it’d be fun to take a quick look at where this heartfelt holiday actually came from. 💐

Believe it or not, Mother’s Day in the U.S. has roots in both ancient traditions and one woman’s heartfelt mission. While cultures around the world have honored motherhood for centuries (think ancient Greek festivals for Rhea, the mother of the gods), the modern version we know today was largely shaped by a woman named Anna Jarvis (pictured below).

After her own mother passed away, Anna wanted to create a national day to honor the sacrifices mothers make for their children. Her efforts paid off—in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in the United States. 🇺🇸

Though Anna Jarvis succeeded in creating a national day to honor mothers, she later felt disheartened by how commercialized it had become. Her original vision was simple and sincere—think handwritten notes, heartfelt words, and quiet acts of love.

As Mother’s Day draws near, whether you’re celebrating a mom, honoring a mother figure, or quietly remembering someone you hold dear—let’s come back to the heart of it all: love, gratitude, and meaningful connection. It doesn’t have to be big or fancy. Sometimes, the smallest gestures say the most.

I’d love to know—how are you planning to honor Mother’s Day this year? 🌸

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🌷Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms out there!🌷

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Vibrant 5×7 Original Painting: Sugar Pop

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I’m so excited to share my newest mini painting, Sugar Pop! This 5×7 inch original abstract artwork is bursting with vibrant joy and playful energy—perfect for anyone who loves bold color and modern charm.

Painted on a sturdy 1.5-inch deep canvas, Sugar Pop features a lively blend of turquoise, ultramarine, pink, lavender, and sunny yellow. Whimsical white splatters, pink and white circles, purple squares, and a touch of glitter—bringing this little piece to life.

It’s ready to display right out of the box—no frame needed! Whether you prop it on a shelf, nestle it into a colorful gallery wall, or brighten up a cozy corner, Sugar Pop adds a sweet pop of personality wherever it goes.

This is a one-of-a-kind piece, and once it’s gone, it’s gone!

👉 Head over to my Etsy Shop, to grab Sugar Pop and explore more joyful abstracts created to make your space shine.

Thank you so much for reading—and for supporting my art. Your encouragement means the world to me and allows me to keep creating pieces that bring joy and color to the world.

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The Journey of Line Abstracts: Colorful New Creations

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I’ve been exploring a new direction in my line abstract series—this time with looser tangles and bolder color choices. These two new 8×8-inch pieces feature playful, wandering pen lines paired with watercolor accents that bring each work to life in its own unique way.

One piece glows with soft, expressive pinks—gentle, airy, and full of warmth. The other makes a bold statement with electric, neon-inspired hues that practically leap off the page. Each began with a single continuous line, twisting and curving freely across the paper. After the lines find their rhythm, I step back and let the shapes suggest where the color wants to go.

It’s always a bit of a surprise—how lines that wander freely and break all the rules still manage to create a sense of quiet. Maybe that’s the beauty of letting go.

There’s more to come in this evolving series, so stay tuned!

Wishing you a bright and creative weekend, and thank you so much for stopping by.

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How to Build a Consistent Fitness Habit

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Photo by TMS Sam on Pexels.com

Let’s be real—staying motivated to move your body regularly isn’t always easy. Life gets busy, energy dips, and sometimes your bed just looks way more appealing than your sneakers. But building a consistent fitness habit is more about small mindset shifts than sheer willpower.

Here are a few gentle tips to help you stay on track (without burning out):

💪 1. Remember your “why.”
Instead of chasing a number, focus on how movement makes you feel—stronger, calmer, more energized.

🧠 2. Set small, doable goals.
A 10-minute stretch counts. So does a walk around the block. Motivation grows when goals feel achievable.

🎧 3. Make it fun.
Hate running? Don’t run! Try dancing, hiking, or a fun workout playlist that makes you want to move.

📅 4. Schedule it like a meeting.
Treat your workout like an important date with yourself—and keep that promise.

💬 5. Celebrate progress, not perfection.
Consistency beats intensity. Give yourself credit for showing up, even if it’s just a little.

🌱 Fitness is a journey, not a race. The goal is to keep going—not to be perfect. One step, one rep, one day at a time. You’ve got this! 😉

Thanks so much for stopping by—hope this gave you a little boost of motivation today!

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Chocolate Decadence: A Vibrant Abstract Painting

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Looking to elevate your space with a unique, vibrant piece of art? Look no further than “Chocolate Decadence”—a stunning 8×10 inch abstract painting that combines bold color with an undeniable sense of energy. This original artwork is now available in my Etsy Shop, and it’s ready to bring a burst of joy to your home or office.

A Bold Fusion of Colors

“Chocolate Decadence” is all about rich contrast and lively interplay. The deep, inviting chocolate browns are complemented by electric bursts of turquoise blue, vibrant reds, soft lavender, and playful pinks. But the magic doesn’t stop there. The addition of shimmering gold accents brings this piece to life, catching the light and creating a layered, dynamic effect. The cheerful shapes give the painting a sense of movement and energy, making it a perfect focal point for any room.

Versatile, Unique, and Ready to Hang

Whether you’re looking to freshen up a cozy nook, brighten up a gallery wall, or surprise someone special with a truly one-of-a-kind gift, “Chocolate Decadence” delivers color, character, and warmth in one beautiful package. And because it’s sealed for lasting beauty, this piece will continue to impress for years to come.

This painting is ready to hang right out of the box—no framing required! With its vibrant colors, “Chocolate Decadence” makes a bold statement in any space, whether it’s your living room, office, or bedroom.

Available Exclusively in my Etsy Shop

Thanks so much for stopping by—and as always, thank you for supporting my art. It means the world to me.

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New Line Abstracts in the Studio: Calm in the Chaos

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I’ve been working on a fresh series of line abstracts that combine pen work with watercolor accents—and I’m really enjoying the contrast. The first piece features rich jewel tones tucked into a few of the shapes formed by the lines, while the second brings in a calming mix of greens and blues.

Each piece begins with free-flowing pen lines that twist and tangle across the page. Then I pause, letting the organic shapes that emerge guide where the watercolor flows. What people often tell me they love most is how, despite the wild and unpredictable nature of the lines, the finished piece feels surprisingly peaceful to look at.

I have to agree—there’s something truly beautiful about discovering calm within the chaos.

More pieces are on the way as this series continues to unfold.

Wishing you a lovely weekend, and thank you so much for stopping by!

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