I’ve always been amazed at how a face can tell a whole story without saying a single word. One glance can share a feeling, a mood, or even a little secret. That’s why I love creating faces so much. Whether they turn out whimsical, serious, detailed, or abstract, each one brings its own unique emotion.
This particular piece was a fun practice session in my Strathmore watercolor soft-cover journal. It’s one of my first portraits using acrylic paints and inks. There were parts I really enjoyed and a few things I didn’t love as much—like blending the skin tones. I find that so much easier with watercolor, probably because I’m more used to working with it. But trying something new is all part of the adventure, right?
I still think about some of my very first watercolor portraits… those faces were definitely on the blotchy side! But that’s the beauty of learning—practice really does make a difference.
I’ve been rethinking a few things behind the scenes, so you’ll be seeing some changes coming to my Etsy shop and this site soon. I’m still working out the details, but I’ll keep you updated as everything comes together.
Thanks so much for stopping by! Wishing you a bright, happy week ahead.
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!
Autumn has a way of inviting us to pause, reflect, and soak in the beauty of change. Even if you don’t experience the full crispness of fall where you live, the season’s colors, moods, and rhythms can inspire creativity, calm, and a sense of renewal.
To help you embrace the magic of autumn, I’ve gathered 20 beautiful fall-themed quotes—perfect for journaling, decorating your space, or just reflecting on the season:
“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” — Albert Camus
“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald
“Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.” — Unknown
“Notice that autumn is more the season of the soul than of nature.” — Friedrich Nietzsche
“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.” — Jim Bishop
“Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it.” — George Eliot
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” — L.M. Montgomery
“Autumn leaves don’t fall—they fly.” — Unknown
“And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.” — Oscar Wilde
“Autumn is the hush before winter.” — French Proverb
“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.” — Emily Brontë
“Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.” — Samuel Butler
“The wind that makes music in October corn is the same that bends the pine.” — Wallace Stevens
“Autumn arrives in a cloak of gold, whispering secrets of change untold.” — Unknown
“Leaves are falling, autumn is calling.” — Unknown
“Pumpkins, leaves, and apple pies, autumn is a sweet surprise.” — Unknown
“Autumn is the season to find contentment at home by paying attention to what we already have.” — Unknown
“The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let the dead things go.” — Unknown
“Autumn paints in colors that summer has never seen.” — Unknown
Each of these quotes is a little invitation: to slow down, appreciate the season, and embrace change in our own lives. Whether you’re savoring a warm drink, walking among colorful leaves, or creating in your studio, autumn has a gentle way of reminding us to pause, reflect, and find beauty in transformation.
Which of these quotes speaks to you the most? 🍂 I’d love to hear which one captures your autumn spirit!
Thanks for stopping by, and may your fall be full of color, inspiration, and cozy moments.
This week, I’ve been thinking about one of my favorite musicians, Tom Petty. His music has been a constant source of comfort and inspiration for me, and his life reminds me of the power of perseverance and staying true to yourself.
Born in Gainesville, Florida, Petty picked up a guitar in his teens and never let go. By 1976, he and the Heartbreakers released their debut album, and from there he carved out a legendary career spanning four decades. With hits like “Free Fallin’,” “American Girl,” “Refugee,” and “I Won’t Back Down,” he became the voice of resilience, freedom, and authenticity.
What I find most uplifting is how he never lost his passion for making music. Even after achieving worldwide fame, Petty kept writing, recording, and touring, driven not by ego but by love for the craft. He also stood up for artists’ rights, challenging record companies when he felt fans were being overcharged. That mix of heart, grit, and integrity made him unforgettable.
Over the years, Tom Petty received some of music’s highest honors. He won three Grammy Awards, including Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for “You Don’t Know How It Feels.” He earned MTV’s Video Vanguard Award, a Billboard Century Award, and was named MusiCares Person of the Year in 2017. Petty was also inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2002) and the Songwriters Hall of Fame (2016). Beyond that, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999 and, in 2021, was even awarded an honorary PhD from the University of Florida.
Tom Petty’s life (1950–2017) is a reminder that success isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about holding onto what makes you unique and sharing it with the world. His music continues to encourage me, both in life and in the studio: to keep creating, keep showing up, and never “back down.”
Here’s to Tom Petty—an artist who made the world brighter with his songs and spirit. What’s your favorite Tom Petty song that never fails to lift you up?
Grateful you shared this little journey through music history with me—may your day be filled with inspiration and joy!
Some paintings take their time with me. They don’t rush, and they don’t reveal everything at once. Whispers of Light, my newest 18×24 inch abstract, is one of those pieces.
It started months ago with soft washes of color and textured movement layered onto canvas. I blogged about it back in May—how I paused at midnight, resisting the urge to keep going, and waited for the morning light to guide me. That moment of stillness helped me see the work with fresh eyes. I didn’t know it at the time, but that pause was part of the painting’s story too.
As I added final touches in the weeks that followed, I kept returning to that early light—the quiet, glowing energy that filtered through the window that morning. The colors in this piece—turquoise, rose, golden peach, and warm earth tones—carry a softness, a hush, almost like a breath between thoughts. There’s boldness in the movement, yes, but also a sense of calm rising through the layers.
That’s where the title came from. Whispers of Light felt right—it speaks to the way this piece came together: slowly, gently, and with trust in the quiet moments.
Now that it’s finished, I feel both proud and at peace with it. It’s a reminder to listen to intuition, to light, to softness. To know when to pause, and when to move forward.
Thank you for following along on this painting’s journey—it means so much to have you here.
💫 Have you ever worked on something that unfolded slowly and surprised you in the end? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
Wishing you a weekend full of quiet joy and radiant little whispers of your own.
Meet My Green Goofball: A New Wonky Woofer Joins the Pack!
Sometimes a painting comes together in the quirkiest way—and this one might be the quirkiest yet! 💚 Meet my newest Wonky Woofer, an adorably awkward green pup who looks like he just woke up from a nap and realized he forgot how to dog.
Long floppy ears? Check. Slightly concerned expression? Definitely. Unexpected shade of green? Absolutely. He’s a little lopsided, totally lovable, and full of wonky charm.
Why So Green?
Honestly? I’m not sure why he’s green—but it just feels right, doesn’t it? Like he wandered in from a Dr. Seuss book or maybe he’s the official mascot of some magical dog park where the grass is always neon. Whatever his origin story, one thing’s for sure: this little guy made me smile from the very first brushstroke.
Painting him reminded me of something I’ve learned again and again: when I stop trying to get it right and just let the brush do its thing, the joy shows up on the page.
Permission to Play
This goofy green guy gave me the perfect excuse to just play. No rules, no pressure—just watercolor, a wonky sketch, and a whole lot of fun. I think that’s what I love most about these Wonky Woofers: they remind me that art doesn’t have to be serious to be meaningful.
In fact, sometimes the sillier it is, the more it fills my creative cup. 🎨🐾
Your Turn: What’s the Most Unexpected Thing You’ve Painted Lately?
Have you ever started a painting with one idea and ended up somewhere completely different? Or chosen a color just because it made you laugh? I’d love to hear about it! Share your favorite playful painting moment in the comments—I always enjoy seeing how others embrace the whimsy too.
Until next time, keep creating, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to paint something totally off-the-wall (or off-the-leash!). 💕
Thanks for stopping by—and may your weekend be filled with color and joy!
Say hello to the latest addition in my whimsical pup parade! 🐶🎨 Inspired once again by the fabulous Karen Campbell’s Wonky Woofers book (@karencampbellartist), this delightfully disheveled little guy practically leapt off the page with his big googly eyes and “Did I do that?” expression.
From his tilted stance to his slightly suspicious side-eye, this pup might look confused—but he’s confidently quirky in all the best ways. I can’t help but smile every time I see him. There’s something so lovable about that wonky charm, don’t you think?
Letting Go and Leaning into the Quirk
One of the things I’ve grown to love most about painting these wonky woofer characters is how freeing it feels. There’s no “right” way to do it—wonky is the point! The joy is in the imperfections, the happy accidents, and the freedom to just play.
This pup reminded me that creativity doesn’t need to be polished to be powerful. Sometimes a slightly askew eye or lopsided smirk is what makes a piece come alive.
Got Any Quirky Creatures of Your Own?
What’s the silliest or most unexpected thing you’ve painted lately? Maybe a bug-eyed cat, a cheerful blob, or something that started off serious and ended in hilarious chaos? I’d love to hear about it! Drop your funny or feel-good art moments in the comments—I always love seeing what kind of playful magic you’re making.
Until next time, keep creating, keep embracing the wonky, and remember: a little wobble just means more personality. 💕🐾
Thanks so much for stopping by—and wishing you a colorful, joy-filled weekend ahead!
Working on these abstract paintings is always an adventure—each layer tells part of the story, even the ones that get buried beneath others. This 18×24 inch piece has been evolving for quite some time now. I’ve been adding layers slowly, letting each one guide the next, and I’m finally starting to fall in love with it.
The Midnight Pause
There’s always a point in the process where I feel the urge to keep going—adding more color, more movement, more energy. Last night was one of those moments. I was tempted to keep layering well past midnight, but something told me to pause. So I listened. I stepped away and promised myself I’d take another look in the morning with fresh eyes. I’m so glad I did.
A Fresh Look in the Morning
This morning, I brought the painting into a sunnier room and propped it up by the window. The natural light made the colors come alive in such a lovely way. I sat there with my delicious chocolate shake, just soaking it all in—and that’s when it hit me: it didn’t need much more. Maybe just a few soft lines or subtle shapes, but nothing major. For now, it feels close to complete. And that feels really good.
Trusting the Process
It’s moments like these that remind me why I love making art—learning to trust the quiet pauses just as much as the bold brushstrokes.
Let’s Chat!
Have you ever taken a break from something creative, then come back to it with fresh eyes? I’d love to hear how that’s worked for you—feel free to share in the comments!
Thanks so much for stopping by. Wishing you a beautiful and relaxing weekend!
Every now and then, a journal page comes together in the most unexpected—and delightful—way.
Take this one, for example: a colorful little abstract filled with watercolor, gouache, and some playful collage elements. The stars? Pink and yellow birds I stamped and painted myself, full of whimsy and personality. But the real surprise? Their tail feathers are made from a white cupcake liner. Yep, straight from the kitchen to the art table. Because who says cupcake liners are just for baking?
I love moments like this—when the creative process is loose, joyful, and totally unplanned. It was one of those no-rules kind of pages that made me smile the whole time I was working on it. Adding a little “kitchen magic” gave it even more charm, and reminded me just how fun it is to experiment and be playful with materials.
Now I’m curious… what’s the quirkiest thing you’ve ever added to your journal or artwork? I’d absolutely love to hear!
Wishing you a wonderfully inspired weekend, filled with color, creativity, and maybe even a few unexpected supplies. 🌸✨
Recently, I picked up Wonky Woofers by the incredibly talented Karen Campbell (@karencampbellartist). The book is filled with whimsical, delightfully quirky dog illustrations, and I knew I had to give it a try. This little pup was my first attempt, and let’s just say… he’s got personality.
With his wild, unkempt fur and a face that says, “I meant to do that,” he radiates pure, adorable chaos. And honestly? I think he pulls off the look better than I do in the morning.😆
The Joy of Imperfect Art
One of my favorite things about painting these playful characters is that there’s no pressure to make them “perfect.” The wonkier, the better! Sometimes, letting go of expectations leads to the most delightful surprises—whether it’s an exaggerated expression, unexpected color choices, or a completely unpredictable outcome.
This little fluffball reminded me that art (like life) is more fun when we embrace the unexpected.
What’s the Funniest Thing You’ve Painted Lately?
Whether it’s a quirky animal, a happy accident turned masterpiece, or a doodle that made you laugh, I’d love to hear about it! Drop your funniest painting moments in the comments—I can’t wait to see what creative chaos you’ve been up to.
Until next time, keep painting, keep playing, and remember: sometimes, the messiest creations are the most lovable. 🎨🐾✨
Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend!!
Flowing Waters Art 