Cozy Winter Comfort Foods to Warm Your Heart

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A real cold snap swept through this week, sending temperatures into the 40s — a rare treat for us Southerners! While that may seem mild elsewhere, it’s just enough to make us reach for a blanket and start dreaming of comfort food. As the chill settles in, our kitchens become havens, filled with the scent of simmering soups, slow-cooked stews, and freshly baked bread. 🍞🍲

Comfort food has a beautiful way of wrapping us in nostalgia — a gentle reminder of love served one meal at a time. For me, it’s the hearty soups and slow-simmered stews that bring back the memory of my mom’s kitchen on chilly winter nights, the air filled with the aroma of something comforting on the stove. A steaming bowl of soup can transport you to those moments of being cared for as a child, while a hearty pasta dish might recall family dinners filled with laughter and stories shared around the table. Even a simple mug of hot chocolate has the power to stir up memories of cozy evenings by the fire, watching the world grow still outside. ☕🕯️

Winter warmers are more than just meals — they’re stories told through flavor. They carry love, tradition, and the unspoken language of comfort. Taking time to cook or share these foods is a gentle act of mindfulness — a way to slow down and nourish not just our bodies, but our spirits too.

So this Thursday, pause and savor something warm. Cook a dish that makes you feel at home. Share it with someone you love — or simply enjoy the peaceful moment it brings. Because sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the ones that sustain us most. 💛

👉 What’s your favorite winter comfort food that never fails to warm your heart?

Thanks for reading — here’s to cozy kitchens and comfort in every bite!

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✨ New Mini Holiday Paintings: “Love Lives Here” and “Lil Red” ✨

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The holiday season has officially arrived in my studio, and I’m so excited to share two brand-new 4×4-inch Christmas paintings that are full of sparkle, warmth, and joy!

These mini originals may be small in size, but they’re big on holiday cheer — perfect for gifting, decorating cozy corners, or adding a handmade touch to your festive décor.

🏠 “Love Lives Here”

Bring a touch of Christmas magic to your home with “Love Lives Here,” a whimsical little blue house nestled between a cheerful Christmas tree and a friendly snowman. Floating gold hearts fill the sky, reminding us that love truly makes a home shine.

Hand-painted in happy shades of yellow, blue, green, pink, and white — and sprinkled with a touch of glitter for extra holiday sparkle — this piece radiates warmth and joy. It’s ready to hang with a festive ribbon and makes a thoughtful Secret Santa gift, stocking stuffer, or keepsake to treasure year after year.

🐦 “Lil Red”

Meet “Lil Red,” a bright and curious red bird gazing up at a glowing North Star against a lush green background. Inspired by my own special friendship with a red cardinal who visits me daily, this painting captures the beauty of small moments and the spirit of connection that makes the holidays so special.

Each brushstroke is filled with love and color — from the rich reds and greens to soft white and golden accents that make the little bird glow. “Lil Red” is also ready to hang with a festive ribbon and sealed for lasting beauty.

🎁 Perfect for Gifting or Decorating

Both mini paintings are original, hand-painted works of art — no prints or reproductions here! At just 4×4 inches, they’re ideal for desks, shelves, or cozy nooks, and they come safely packaged and ready to gift. Whether you’re looking for a unique handmade present, a cheerful Secret Santa surprise, or simply something special to brighten your own space, these minis are made to spread joy.

✨ Celebrate the Season with Art & Heart

The holidays are all about love, connection, and little moments that make us smile. “Love Lives Here” and “Lil Red” were created to capture that spirit — in a small, heartfelt way.

🛒 Add a little handmade magic to your holiday décor — or gift it to someone special today!

👉 Shop both mini paintings now in my Etsy Shop.

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🎉 P.S. A little holiday surprise is coming soon!
I’m planning something extra special just for my blog readers — a limited-time offer to say thank you for supporting my art. Keep an eye on the blog (or sign up for my email list!) so you don’t miss the announcement when it drops.

Remembering Helga: A Life Full of Adventure and Love

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Today is my late sister Helga’s birthday.
She would have been 69 today, but sadly, she was taken from this earth over 21 years ago. Helga was a free spirit in every sense of the word—fearless, adventurous, and always ready to try something new. She had the courage to follow her heart, no matter where it led, and that often meant one adventure after another.

Helga was also a talented writer. During her time living in Islamorada, in the beautiful Florida Keys, she started and published her own magazine. I always admired her strength, tenacity, and unwavering determination. When Helga set her sights on something, she gave it everything she had until she made it happen.

She was one of the most loving and caring souls I’ve ever known. No matter what chaos might have been swirling in her own life, she was always ready to lend a helping hand—or a listening ear. Helga had a wonderful sense of humor, the kind that could turn an ordinary moment into a fit of laughter. We used to talk on the phone almost every day, sharing stories and laughing at her delightfully quirky, Far Side–style humor. She had such a unique outlook on life—she could make even the toughest situations seem lighter and easier to handle.

One of my most vivid childhood memories of her is the day I stepped on a sewing needle. I was too terrified to pull it out myself, so I hobbled into her room, crying. Helga gently removed it, then gave me the biggest hug—the kind that could make the world feel safe again. That’s something I miss deeply: her hugs. She had this incredible gift of making your worries melt away with just one warm embrace.

Helga’s creativity seemed boundless. After her magazine came to a close, she poured her artistic spirit into her jewelry business, Earth Naturals, crafting stunning pieces from beads and natural crystals. Each creation radiated her love for nature, her eye for beauty, and her gift for self-expression, turning her art into something both personal and timeless.

Happy Birthday, my beautiful sister Helga.
Though you’re no longer here, your spirit dances in every memory and every laugh we once shared. I’ll love you forever. 💖

Thanks for sharing this special day with me.

New Art Releases: Moments of Renewal and Echoes of Joy

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These past two weeks have been a whirlwind, but I survived! 🎉

Long story short—my computer crashed, and I was nearly in tears thinking I’d lost all of my work and photos. 😢 Thankfully, everything was recovered, and I now have a brand-new computer—yay! The downside? It came with all-new software, including a different version of Windows and my photo-editing program, so there’s definitely a learning curve. But I’ll get there😅

While my computer was down, I still managed to get some work done from my phone (which was not easy on that tiny screen!). I did, however, manage to list two new pieces in my Etsy shop:

🎨 Moments of Renewal – A 5×5-inch abstract painting that glows with depth and movement. Layers of luminous color and expressive brushwork create a radiant composition that feels alive—evoking both serenity and inspiration.

🎨 Echoes of Joy – A vibrant 4×12-inch modern abstract that bursts with rhythm and harmony. Energetic strokes and shifting layers of color capture a sense of celebration and motion, like joyful echoes reverberating through light and space.

✨ Both of these one-of-a-kind abstracts make a bold statement as wall art or as a shelf accent in your home, office, or creative space. Their vivid hues and dynamic energy invite reflection, spark conversation, and add a touch of contemporary elegance wherever they’re displayed.

Stop by my Flowing Waters Art Shop on Etsy to take a closer look!

Thanks so much for stopping by—wishing you a truly wonderful rest of your week! 😊

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The Art of Pumpkin Carving: From Tradition to Creativity

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Photo by Steven Van Elk on Pexels.com

Every fall, as the air turns crisp and pumpkins start appearing on porches and in grocery stores, I’m reminded of how creativity weaves itself into the simplest of traditions. Pumpkin carving may have started with superstition and folklore, but over the centuries it’s become a joyful, artistic expression that celebrates the beauty of the season.

A Quick Nod to the Past

If you read my post a few years ago, you might remember that the very first jack-o’-lanterns weren’t pumpkins at all—they were carved from turnips or other root vegetables and lit from within to ward off wandering spirits. This old Irish and Celtic custom eventually made its way to America, where pumpkins—larger, softer, and much easier to carve—became the perfect substitute.

As the tradition took root here, it began to change. What started as a way to frighten away spirits gradually turned into something far more joyful—a creative celebration that brings people together and lets imagination shine, one glowing pumpkin at a time.

Pumpkin Carving as Creative Expression

Today, pumpkin carving has evolved far beyond the triangle-eyed faces of childhood. Artists around the world sculpt pumpkins into intricate works of art—layering, etching, and shading the surface like a living sculpture. Some carve realistic portraits or elaborate scenes that glow from within, while others paint, collage, or even stack pumpkins to create whimsical displays.

There’s a sense of wonder in watching these temporary creations come to life. Maybe that’s what makes them so special—like art itself, they remind us that creativity doesn’t have to last forever to make an impression.

Finding Inspiration in the Glow

Even if you’re not into elaborate carving, there are so many ways to celebrate this cozy tradition. Try painting your pumpkin in soft watercolor-like hues, adding gold leaf, or creating abstract patterns inspired by your favorite fall colors. Let your imagination lead the way—there’s no “right” way to decorate a pumpkin, only your way.

A Little Reflection

Each glowing jack-o’-lantern, whether spooky or serene, carries a spark of creativity that connects us across time. From ancient folklore to modern artistry, it’s a tradition that continues to evolve, reminding us how art—and a little light—can turn something ordinary into something magical.

Thanks for stopping by! Wishing you a cozy, creative, and delightfully spooky Halloween filled with glowing pumpkins, flickering lights, and inspired moments. ✨🎃

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Embrace Playfulness This Halloween Season

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Once a year, the world feels just a little more playful. Pumpkins line doorsteps. Costumes take over closets. Adults and kids alike find themselves caught up in the excitement of something that’s all too rare in our day-to-day lives: pure, creative fun.

Halloween isn’t just about candy or costumes—it’s a yearly invitation to loosen up, use our imaginations, and remember how good it feels to play.

🧡 Letting Go of Being So Serious

Modern life often comes with a constant pressure to be polished, productive, and in control. But Halloween gives us permission to hit pause on all of that. It’s a reminder that not everything has to be so serious.

When you put on a costume—even a simple one—you’re saying, “Today, I choose joy.” You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be present. Whether you’re handing out candy, carving a pumpkin, or walking through a neighborhood full of decorations, you’re participating in something simple and powerful: fun for fun’s sake.

🌟 Reawakening the Imagination

When’s the last time you played pretend?

Halloween is powered by imagination. It brings us back to a mindset we knew well as kids—the freedom to invent, explore, and dream without rules. Whether you’re creating a costume, decorating your space, or telling a spooky (but not too spooky) story, you’re flexing your creative muscles in the best possible way.

And imagination isn’t just for October 31st. It’s something we use in everyday life—solving problems, telling stories, thinking ahead. Halloween just reminds us how joyful and refreshing it can be when we let that creativity run free.

🍬 Enjoying the Moment

There’s something beautiful about the simplicity of Halloween joy.

Kids running from house to house. Laughter echoing down the street. The crunch of leaves, the glow of jack-o’-lanterns, the sense that—just for tonight—it’s okay to just be in the moment.

Halloween doesn’t require expensive plans or perfect conditions. It invites us to slow down and enjoy what’s right in front of us: a playful moment, a spark of imagination, a shared smile.

✨ Let the Spirit of Play Stay With You

So this Halloween, whether you’re dressing up, decorating the house, or simply soaking in the season, give yourself the gift of play. Let your imagination take the lead. Let go of the need to do everything “right.”

Because when we allow ourselves to be a little more playful, we feel more alive, more connected, and often—more ourselves.

What’s one way you’re bringing a little more play and imagination into your life this season?
Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re celebrating!

Here’s to imagination, laughter, and letting go!

Thanks so much for stopping by!!

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Vibrant 11×14 Fine Art Prints That Wow

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  • Peacock King
  • Fancy as a Peacock
  • Pink Flamingo

I’m excited to share a new addition to my fine art print collection: large-format 11×14 inch prints of three of my most loved pieces — Peacock King, Fancy as a Peacock, and The Pink Flamingo.

If you’ve admired these vibrant works in smaller sizes, you’re going to fall in love all over again. The new 11×14 format brings even more life, color, and detail to each piece — perfect for making a statement in your home, office, or gallery wall.

✨ Why the 11×14 Format?

Art deserves room to shine. This larger print size allows for:

  • Richer detail: You’ll see every feather, texture, and expressive nuance more clearly.
  • Bolder impact: These prints stand out — no frame required (though they look stunning framed).
  • More versatility: At 11×14, these pieces are large enough to stand alone or complement a gallery wall.

🦚 Meet the Collection

🟣 Peacock King
Majestic, proud, and unapologetically regal. This piece captures the powerful elegance of the male peacock in all his iridescent glory. The 11×14 print gives his sweeping tail and intense gaze room to truly shine.

💙 Fancy as a Peacock
A celebration of flair, fashion, and the bold beauty of being extra. The larger format highlights the shimmering hues and whimsical charm that make this piece a favorite among collectors and daydreamers.

💗 Pink Flamingo
Playful, poised, and perfectly pink — this portrait balances grace with personality. The 11×14 edition brings out the softness in the plumage and the quiet strength in her stance, creating a striking visual centerpiece.

🖼️ A Statement for Any Space

Whether you’re decorating a new space or refreshing a favorite nook, these 11×14 prints bring a vibrant pop of color and personality. They also make thoughtful gifts for art lovers, animal enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates bold design and a bit of whimsy.

Available now in my Etsy Shop. Let your walls strut their stuff!

Thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for more larger prints!

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Finding Calm Through Art: Embrace Everyday Creativity

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Some days, life feels like a blur — a string of errands, appointments, and to-do lists. But then there are the moments when art steps in, quietly, and reminds me to breathe, notice, and feel. Those little pauses — a splash of color, a texture under my fingers, the scent of paint in my studio — turn ordinary days into something extraordinary.

For me, creating art isn’t just about finishing a painting or completing a project. It’s a way of experiencing life more fully. A simple morning walk can become a study in light and shadow, a cup of tea in the morning turns into a meditation on color and form, and even the smallest sketch brings a sense of calm and presence. Art has a way of making time stretch and ordinary moments sparkle.

Sometimes, it’s the small, intentional acts — setting up my workspace, choosing a palette, or even doodling in my journal — that transform the rhythm of my day. These practices remind me to slow down, notice beauty, and connect with the world around me in a way that feels meaningful.

Art doesn’t just enhance my day; it enhances how I see and live in the world. It teaches me patience, joy in the process, and appreciation for fleeting moments. Even when life is hectic, those little interactions with color, texture, and creativity make everything feel richer.

So today, on this Thoughtful Thursday, I invite you to notice the small ways creativity touches your life. Maybe it’s a favorite song, a photograph, a sketch, or even just noticing the sunlight dancing across the floor. Those moments are your own little masterpieces — and they have the power to make each day more vibrant, calm, and alive.

✨ How does art or creativity enhance your everyday experiences? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Thanks for spending a little time here with me!

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Drift and Bloom: Modern Art for Your Home

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  • Drift and Bloom – Original
  • Drift and Bloom – Giclee Print

I love to lose myself in my art while I paint. Each brushstroke I add puts a little piece of myself into the artwork — a thought, a feeling, or simply a moment of quiet joy. Over time, those moments come together to form something new and alive. That’s exactly how Drift and Bloom came to be.

This 8×8 inch original painting on wood is a celebration of color, flow, and modern elegance. Layers of turquoise blue, playful pink, soft white, warm brown, and shimmering touches of gold drift together in a soothing, uplifting dance. The natural wood panel adds depth and texture, enhancing the luminous energy that makes this piece feel like it’s gently moving.

Because this painting has such a peaceful yet vibrant spirit, I’m excited to share that Drift and Bloom is now also available as a fine art Giclée print. Each print is professionally produced on premium 310g archival paper, ensuring the colors stay true and radiant for years to come.

Whether you’re drawn to the tactile richness of the original wood painting, or prefer the versatility of a print that brings its joyful calm into any room, Drift and Bloom adds a bright, modern touch to your space.

✨ Both the 8×8 original and Giclée prints are now available in my Flowing Waters Art Shop on Etsy — perfect for collectors, color lovers, or anyone who loves art that radiates harmony and light.

And for those who enjoy my photography as well — I’m in the process of adding new 11×14 inch print sizes to all my photo listings, so you can enjoy larger, statement-worthy versions of your favorite images. Stay tuned for updates as new sizes become available!

Thank you for taking a moment to share in this burst of color and creativity with me — wishing you a bright and joyful day! 😊

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The Joy of KC and the Sunshine Band: A Disco Legacy

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Richard Finch, Robert Johnson, Harry Wayne Casey (KC), Jerome Smith

When it comes to feel-good music that gets people dancing, few groups capture that infectious energy quite like KC and the Sunshine Band. Formed in the early 1970s in sunny Miami, Florida, the band was led by **Harry Wayne Casey—“KC” himself—**who blended funk, R&B, and pop into a sound that defined the disco era. Their songs weren’t just catchy; they became anthems of joy and celebration that still fill dance floors today.

With five No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “Get Down Tonight,” “That’s the Way (I Like It),” “(Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty,” “I’m Your Boogie Man,”and “Please Don’t Go,” KC and the Sunshine Band dominated the charts through the mid- to late-1970s. They went on to sell over 100 million records worldwide and earned three Grammy Awards, including one for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Group and another for Producer of the Year. Their upbeat, horn-driven sound helped define the Miami Sound and left a lasting imprint on pop and dance music for decades to come.

From the rhythm of “Get Down Tonight,” to the iconic “That’s the Way (I Like It),” and “Shake Your Booty,” KC and the Sunshine Band made it nearly impossible to sit still. Their music was all about movement—about letting go, smiling wide, and feeling the groove. Even today, those opening notes can transport you straight back to a time of sequins, disco balls, and carefree nights.

Growing up, I had a fun little connection to this dazzling world of disco. We ended up living just a few doors down from the band’s manager and his family. They had a daughter around my age, and tucked away in one of her closets were some of the actual stage costumes worn by the band! I still remember how we used to open that closet door in awe—the outfits were incredible. Made of thick polyester, adorned with sparkling rhinestones, and surprisingly heavy, they shimmered beautifully—even in the faintest light. We’d giggle and marvel at the thought of someone dancing under bright stage lights in those sparkling suits!

It’s funny how music and memories intertwine. Even now, when I hear “Boogie Shoes” or “I’m Your Boogie Man,” I can’t help but smile, remembering that glittering closet and the magic it held. KC and the Sunshine Band taught us something timeless—that life feels a little brighter when we take a moment to dance, laugh, and celebrate the joy of the moment.

So today, on this Thoughtful Thursday, maybe turn up a little disco and let yourself “shake, shake, shake” your way into a happier mood. Because as KC would say, that’s the way (uh-huh, uh-huh) I like it! 🎶

Hope you enjoyed this groovy stroll through music history. Thanks for stopping by!

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