I see flowers as Mother Nature’s masterpieces. Their petals, whether soft and strong or luminous and fragile, each possess a unique beauty that ignites my creativity. These two new paintings I’ve created invite you to envision flowers through a lens of feeling rather than detail.
As I wrap up these paintings, I’m also piecing everything together. A few unexpected challenges prompted some design changes, but they’ve only enriched my artistic journey.
Stay tuned to see how it all comes together…
I hope this inspires you, have a wonderful weekend! 🌸🎨
As awareness of health and environmental issues continues to grow, more people are turning to organic produce to reduce their exposure to pesticides and support sustainable farming practices. While buying all organic can be costly, alternatively you can focus on certain fruits and vegetables to maximize the benefits.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes two primary lists every spring, the “Dirty Dozen” which is safest to buy organic and the “Clean Fifteen” which is safest to buy conventionally.
Here are some tips on making shopping for organic produce easier on the wallet:
Shop Seasonally: Organic produce is often cheaper when it’s in season.
Visit Farmers Markets: Local farmers markets can offer fresh, organic produce at competitive prices.
Join a CSA: Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs allow you to buy shares of organic produce directly from local farmers.
Grow Your Own: If you have space, growing your own organic fruits and vegetables can be a rewarding and cost-effective option.
Prioritize the Dirty Dozen: Focus your organic purchases on the produce listed in the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Dirty Dozen, which highlights fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues.
By prioritizing these key fruits and vegetables, you can significantly reduce your pesticide exposure and enjoy healthier produce. Making informed choices about organic options supports sustainable farming and contributes to a healthier planet.
Would love to hear from you! Share your experiences and tips on buying organic produce in the comments. For example: How do you prioritize your organic purchases? Do you have favorite markets or creative ways to save on organic options? Let’s foster a community of shared knowledge for healthier, sustainable choices✨
Hope you found this post useful, thanks for stopping by!!
As many of you know, I love painting angels. It’s where I find peace and solace through the artistic process. I started this watercolor painting in my art journal a while ago, but I wasn’t thrilled with the overpowering, bold colors.
Eventually, I decided to move forward and finish her. Surprisingly, once I changed my mindset, the colors started to grow on me, and new ideas emerged on how to complete this painting. Sometimes, we need to take a step back and let things settle before new inspiration comes to us. It’s a reminder that patience and a fresh perspective can transform our work in unexpected ways.
I hope this inspires you in some way today. Thanks for stopping by!!⠀
Share the Happy💖
“Faith and Fear both demand you believe in something you cannot see. You choose!” ~Bob Proctor
I love nature’s beauty in flowers. There are so many varieties, textures and lovely colors. It’s no wonder I have a strong calling to paint them.
I’ve been enjoying creating abstract watercolors. My intention with these paintings is to evoke the essence of flowers without focusing on the details, leaving much to the viewer’s imagination.
These small pieces are part of a larger mixed media project I’m working on, and I hope to complete them this coming week. So join me on this artistic journey to see how it evolves!
I hope this inspires you in some way. Have a great weekend!⠀
In recent years, the debate between organic produce and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has gained considerable attention. Understanding the key differences can help you make informed decisions about what you eat.
Organic Produce
Organic produce is grown without synthetic chemicals, using natural methods like composting, crop rotation, and biological pest control. These practices promote environmental sustainability and protect biodiversity. Foods labeled “organic” are often seen as healthier and more eco-friendly.
GMOs
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are plants or animals with altered DNA to introduce traits like pest resistance or drought tolerance. Proponents argue that GMOs can lead to higher crop yields, reduced pesticide use, and enhanced nutritional content.
Health and Safety
The safety of GMOs is debated, but many organizations like WHO and AMA say they are safe to eat. Some consumers, however, worry about long-term health effects. Organic produce, free from synthetic chemicals and GMOs, can be reassuring for those avoiding potential risks of conventional farming methods.
In regards to health effects, this is my personal experience: I love tomatoes, and had one with dinner. Around 3 am, I woke up in extreme pain, unable to close my hands into fists or move my legs, arms, and even my neck. The next day, I did research and found it was likely either a sudden onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis or an adverse reaction to GMOs.
The easiest option was to rule out was the GMO tomato so I decided to eat another tomato. I clearly didn’t think that through because the same exact thing happened. The pain was excruciating and took several days to subside. However, for me this confirmed the painful inflammation I was experiencing wasn’t arthritis, but instead, my body’s response to the GMO tomato I had eaten.
Environmental Impact
Organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals and promotes soil health, enhancing biodiversity and reducing pollution. However, it typically requires more land and labor. GMOs can reduce the need for chemical inputs and increase crop resilience, but there are concerns about their impact on non-target species and potential gene flow to wild relatives.
Cost and Availability
Organic produce is often more expensive than conventional produce due to the labor-intensive farming practices and lower yields. GMOs, on the other hand, can be produced more efficiently and are typically more affordable. The availability of organic produce can also be limited depending on your location.
While not everyone will experience the severe reaction I did to GMOs, organic produce is generally considered better for your health and the environment, provided your budget allows. Stay tuned for next week’s discussion on which produce items are consistently safer to buy organic, and which ones are acceptable in their conventional form.
Hope you found this post useful, thanks for stopping by!!
Lavender flowers, with their vibrant purple hues and delicate blooms, are a true feast for the senses. Their beauty is captivating, evoking images of serene fields bathed in sunlight. The delightful scent of lavender, both calming and invigorating, has a timeless allure that enchants and soothes the mind, body and soul. As one of my favorite flowers and scents, lavender served as the inspiration for this painting.
I’m thrilled to introduce “Lavender Mist,” the latest addition to my Etsy Shop. This abstract painting, crafted with professional paints on 9×12 inch, 140 lb cold press watercolor paper, exudes elegance and charm.
“Lavender Mist” captivates the senses with its serene hues of greens, blues, and violets. The touch of metallic paint adds a beautiful shimmer, infusing the artwork with a touch of magic.
Enhance your space and soothe your mind with “Lavender Mist” and let its timeless beauty inspire your soul. Don’t miss out – make it yours today and let the enchantment begin!
As we celebrate the 4th of July, let’s take a moment to appreciate the freedom and independence we cherish. This day is not just about fireworks, barbecues, and parades; it’s a reminder of the resilience and courage that shaped our nation.
On this day in 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the thirteen American colonies as free and independent states, no longer subject to British rule. This pivotal moment in history marked the birth of our nation and the beginning of a journey toward liberty and democracy.
Gather with family and friends, enjoy the festivities, and reflect on the values that unite us. Whether you’re watching a dazzling fireworks display, hosting a backyard BBQ, or simply relaxing, let the spirit of liberty and unity fill your heart. What special plans do you have for today?
💖🤍💙Here’s to a joyful and safe Independence Day! Happy 4th of July💖🤍💙
I’ve been practicing brushstrokes in my journal with the new watercolor brushes I recently bought, and I’m amazed at how each one is completely unique. They differ in how much water they hold, their bounce, and how well they maintain their shape. These new brushes are a significant upgrade from my old ones, but they definitely take some getting used to.
Instead of leaving this as a boring practice page I thought it would be more fun to keep the creativity going and turn this into an abstract design. So I used my pens to add lines and dots.
What started as simple brushstroke practice turned into a fun and creative abstract design. Art is all about exploration and finding joy in the unexpected. Have you had similar experiences with your own practice or art projects? I’d love to hear your stories and see your creations. Share your journey in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other.
One of the many things I love about watercolors is the element of surprise. I use a lot of water in most of my paintings, allowing the colors to move and mingle freely. The results can be stunning or sometimes a complete disaster—you never know! This time, I experimented with a new color combination and absolutely love how it turned out.
Creating art is meant to expand your mind and soul. It’s an unpredictable adventure, and that’s where the joy comes from. May this piece inspire you to explore, experiment, and find beauty in the unexpected twists and turns of your own creative journey.
Lemons are a versatile fruit that offer a myriad of benefits and uses beyond their tangy flavor. Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and various nutrients, lemons are a powerful addition to your daily routine.
I grew up with a lemon tree in the backyard, and my mom was very creative in using lemons in tasty recipes I loved making them one of my favorite fruits.
From boosting health to enhancing flavors and even household cleaning, lemons are an incredible multitasker. Let’s dive into the many ways you can benefit from this citrus superstar:
Health Benefits:
Boosts Immune System: The high vitamin C content in lemons helps strengthen your immune system, warding off colds and infections.
Aids Digestion: Lemon water can stimulate healthy digestion by encouraging the production of bile and improving liver function.
Promotes Hydration: Adding lemon to your water can make it more flavorful, encouraging you to drink more and stay hydrated.
Improves Skin Health: The antioxidants in lemons help fight free radicals, promoting clear and glowing skin.
Culinary Uses:
Flavor Enhancer: Lemons add a burst of flavor to both savory and sweet dishes, from salads and marinades to desserts and beverages.
Preservative: The acidity of lemons makes them a natural preservative, perfect for preventing the browning of fruits and vegetables.
Baking: Lemon zest and juice are common ingredients in baking, adding a fresh and zesty flavor to cakes, cookies, and breads.
Household Uses:
Natural Cleaner: Lemons have antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making them an effective natural cleaner for cutting boards, countertops, and appliances.
Deodorizer: Lemon’s fresh scent can neutralize odors, making it a great choice for freshening up your kitchen, fridge, and garbage disposal.
Polish: Lemon juice mixed with baking soda can create a paste that effectively polishes metal surfaces, leaving them shiny and clean.
Incorporating lemons into your daily routine can boost your health, enhance your meals, and freshen up your home. With their numerous benefits and versatile uses, lemons truly are a remarkable fruit.
Hope you found this post useful today🍋 Thanks for stopping by!
Flowing Waters Art 