Tag Archives: Famous Quote

Celebrate the Summer Solstice: Embrace the Longest Day

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The Longest Day of the Year…

The Summer Solstice is officially here tomorrow—a day when the sun seems to stand still in the sky, stretching our daylight hours to their fullest. It’s a moment that feels alive with possibility, where nature buzzes with energy, and the light invites us to slow down and soak it all in.

When I Was a Kid…

I lived for summer. School was finally out, and that meant everything good was about to begin—movie matinees at the theater, boating adventures, and endless hours swimming in the lake with friends until our fingers were pruney and the sun started to dip behind the trees. It felt like the world opened up just a bit wider, and time moved differently—stretching long like the solstice itself.

Make the Most of the Light…

Whether you’re a fellow sunshine lover or just looking for a way to connect with the season, here are a few simple ways to honor the solstice:

  • Watch the sunrise or sunset and soak in the light
  • Go for a walk in nature—notice what’s blooming
  • Light a candle or small bonfire to celebrate the sun
  • Start a new creative project or journal your summer intentions
  • Make a simple summer treat—fresh berries, lemonade, or something grilled

This time of year is a beautiful reminder to find light—both around us and within.

I’d love to hear how you welcome the season—do you have a favorite way to soak in the magic of the solstice? Feel free to share in the comments—I always enjoy hearing how others celebrate this special time of year.

Wishing you a bright, beautiful solstice full of warmth, wonder, and a little spark of magic. Thanks for stopping by!

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“Summertime is always the best of what might be.” ~Charles Bowden

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The Lasting Influence of Leonardo da Vinci on Art and Science

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Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519) was more than just a painter—he was an architect, scientist, engineer, and visionary thinker whose curiosity knew no bounds. Best known for masterpieces like Mona Lisa (pictured below left) and The Last Supper (pictured below right), da Vinci’s art captures human emotion with remarkable realism, thanks to his mastery of light, shadow, and perspective.

But Leonardo’s genius extended far beyond the canvas. He filled notebooks with studies of anatomy, flight, botany, and mechanics, designing inventions centuries ahead of his time, including flying machines and early concepts of robots. His keen observations and relentless curiosity made him a true Renaissance polymath, influencing both art and science in profound ways.

Leonardo da Vinci’s boundless curiosity and mastery across disciplines continue to inspire artists, scientists, and inventors, proving that creativity and knowledge go hand in hand. His ability to blend science with art, observation with imagination, and precision with wonder reminds us that the pursuit of learning is limitless—and that imagination has the power to shape the future. Whether sketching a flying machine or capturing the human soul in a portrait, da Vinci’s legacy teaches us that artistic expression and discovery go hand in hand. In his own words, ‘Learning never exhausts the mind’—a timeless reminder to keep exploring, questioning, and creating.

Hope you enjoyed this post today, thanks for stopping by!

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DIY Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

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Valentine’s Day is a perfect occasion to show your love and appreciation with heartfelt, handmade gifts. Here are a few creative DIY ideas that will delight your loved ones and add a personal touch to the celebration:

1. Personalized Photo Frame Create a custom photo frame using a plain wooden frame, some paint, and decorative accents like glitter or heart-shaped stickers. Add a favorite photo of you and your loved one for a sentimental keepsake.

2. Handwritten Love Notes Write a series of short, sweet messages on small pieces of paper and place them in a decorative jar or box. Each note can share a reason why you love them or a favorite memory you’ve shared.

3. Homemade Scented Candle: Craft a personalized candle using a candle-making kit or simple supplies like wax flakes, a wick, and a jar. Choose a romantic scent like lavender, vanilla, or rose to set the perfect Valentine’s mood.

4. Custom Gift Basket Fill a basket with their favorite snacks, candles, and small treats that match a theme—such as a movie night or a cozy self-care kit—for a personalized bundle of joy.

These thoughtful DIY Valentine’s Day gifts are not only fun to make but also a meaningful way to express your love. Thanks for stopping by and happy crafting!

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“It wasn’t love at first sight. It took a full five minutes.” ~Lucille Ball

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Kickstart Your New Year with Healthy Habits

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The start of a new year is a perfect time to refresh your routines and embrace healthy habits that set the tone for the months ahead. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, improve your mindset, or bring more balance into your life, small, intentional changes can make a big difference. Here are a few simple yet powerful habits to kick off your new year on a positive note:

1. Prioritize Daily Movement Movement doesn’t have to mean a rigorous gym session. A brisk walk, stretching routine, or dancing to your favorite songs can invigorate your body and mind. Consistent daily movement helps improve mood, increase energy, and support overall health.

2. Create a Morning Routine You Love How you start your day can set the tone for everything that follows. Incorporate activities that energize and inspire you—whether it’s sipping a warm cup of tea while journaling, meditating, or reading a motivational quote to spark creativity and focus.

3. Hydrate More It’s simple but often overlooked: staying hydrated is vital for your health. Invest in a water bottle you love and make it a habit to drink water throughout the day. Adding a slice of lemon or a splash of fruit can make hydration more enjoyable.

4. Embrace Mindful Moments Practicing mindfulness doesn’t require hours of meditation. Pause for a few deep breaths during stressful moments, savor your meals without distractions, or spend time observing nature to center yourself in the present.

5. Declutter Your Space A fresh start feels even better in a tidy, organized space. Take time to declutter one room or even just one drawer. Creating a peaceful, clean environment can help clear mental space and boost productivity.

6. Celebrate Small Wins Instead of focusing solely on large, long-term goals, take time to acknowledge small victories. Did you complete a challenging task? Stick to your new habit for a week? Pause to celebrate these moments—they are steps toward bigger successes.

Starting the new year with healthy, sustainable habits can help you feel more balanced, focused, and energized. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. Choose one or two habits to begin with and enjoy the positive ripple effects they bring into your life!

Hope this inspires you to embrace positive changes in your life. Thanks for stopping by, and here’s to a happy, healthy new year!

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“Love yourself enough to live a healthy lifestyle.” ~Jules Robson

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The Power of Thoughts: A Reflection on Gandhi’s Quote

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While flipping through some old notes, I came across this beautiful quote by Gandhi, and it instantly felt like the perfect match for my “Rustic Charm” abstract:

“Your beliefs become your thoughts.
Your thoughts become your words.
Your words become your actions.
Your actions become your habits.
Your habits become your values.
Your values become your destiny.”
~ Gandhi

This quote serves as a great reflection, highlighting how even the simplest thoughts can shape our lives in profound ways. 🎨💫 It reminds us to be mindful of our thoughts and the impact they have on our actions and values. Creating art is my way of reflecting on these ideas, expressing them through color and form, and finding inspiration in life’s little moments.

I hope these words of wisdom inspire you today, thanks for stopping by!🌟✨

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Exploring Abstract Art with Watercolor Brushes

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I recently got a new set of watercolor brushes, and I couldn’t wait to try them out! I grabbed my 5.5×8.5” watercolor journal and spent a fun afternoon playing around, creating this colorful abstract. It’s amazing how different each brush feels—getting used to their bounce and how much water they hold is part of the fun.

I love experimenting in my journal, testing out new patterns and designs. Some might make their way into bigger pieces, and some are just for the joy of the process. I’m a bit obsessed with curves—you’ll often see circles, waves, and leaves pop up in my art. They remind me of the ocean and trees, two of my favorite things.

For this painting, my favorite parts are the blue leaves near the top and the dark blue waves at the bottom. There’s something calming about those patterns—I love the flow they bring to the piece. What about you? Do you have a favorite part?

I hope this little peek into my process brings a bit of inspiration to your weekend! Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing this creative moment with me!

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“‘Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not.’” ~Pablo Picasso

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Thoughtful Thursday 5 Easy Tips to Decorate Your Entryway for Fall

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As the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall settle in, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your home’s entrance with seasonal charm. Your front door is the first thing guests see, and with just a few simple touches, you can create a warm and welcoming space that reflects the beauty of autumn. Here are five easy tips to transform your entryway into a festive fall haven:

  1. Wreaths with Natural Elements: Swap out your summer wreath for one featuring fall staples like pinecones, dried leaves, and pumpkins. A wreath with a mix of orange, gold, and deep reds instantly signals the change of season.
  2. Pumpkin Display: Arrange a cluster of pumpkins in varying sizes and colors around your doorstep. Mix real and faux pumpkins for texture, and don’t forget to include unique shades like white and pale green for a fresh look.
  3. Mums and Lanterns: Place a few pots of chrysanthemums on either side of your door for a pop of vibrant color. Pair them with rustic lanterns filled with candles or string lights for a cozy evening glow.
  4. Layered Doormat: Add depth to your entryway with a layered doormat look. Start with a plaid or buffalo check rug underneath and top it with a simple welcome mat for a cozy, farmhouse feel.
  5. Seasonal Signage: Incorporate a fall-themed sign that welcomes guests. Phrases like “Hello Fall” or “Give Thanks” painted on wooden boards bring a personalized, inviting touch.

Whether you keep it simple with a few well-chosen décor pieces or go all out with a full fall display, touches like these can transform your front door into a festive focal point that welcomes everyone with seasonal cheer! I’d love to hear how you’re decorating for fall—feel free to share your own ideas and inspirations in the comments and let’s celebrate the season together!

I hope this inspired you to spread some seasonal cheer! Thanks so much for stopping by!

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“Listen! The wind is rising, and the air is wild with leaves, We have had our summer evenings, now for October eves!” ~Humbert Wolfe

Finding Calm in Chaos through Creativity

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Life can feel overwhelming at times, so I recently took a step back to create a little something every day in my small 4.75-inch square zentangle journal. With autumn arriving just last week, I’ve been envisioning a subtle shift in colors—not too drastic, but enough to reflect the season’s quiet transition. That’s why I decided on a limited palette for this design.

I came across a great reminder online: creativity is like a muscle—you have to exercise it regularly to keep it strong. I’ll admit, I never really thought of it that way before, but there’s a lot of truth in that statement. Despite a whirlwind of a week, I still found time to work on my zentangle in small, manageable sections, little by little.

Sneaking in these moments of creativity, even if just for a few minutes, made my week feel less chaotic. Each brief session was a grounding force, and by the end of the week, I had something beautiful to show for it. I hope this encourages you to carve out a few moments for your own creative practice today, no matter how busy life gets.

Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing this journey with me!

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“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” ~Maya Angelou

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Thoughtful Thursday Captivating Colors: Discovering the Beauty of Peacocks

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I was around 4 years old when my family took a trip to Germany, and one of our stops was King Ludwig’s Linderhof Castle. During the tour, we came across the mesmerizing peacock room, adorned with ornately decorated peacocks. Every color imaginable was woven into the room’s stunning design, and as a lover of color, I was instantly captivated by these magnificent birds. It’s no surprise that from that moment on, I fell in love with peacocks and their vibrant beauty.

Peacocks are not only admired for their beauty but also for their symbolism across various cultures. In Hinduism, they represent patience, kindness, and compassion, while in Greek mythology, they are associated with the goddess Hera, symbolizing watchfulness and protection. The way a peacock proudly displays its feathers is a powerful reminder to celebrate our individuality and express ourselves without fear.

Whether you’re captivated by their vibrant colors, symbolic meanings, or the sense of grandeur they embody, incorporating peacocks—whether through photos, artwork, or their rich hues—can bring a touch of elegance and inspiration into your life. Let the peacock’s stunning display remind you to embrace your own brilliance and stand confidently in the world.

I hope you enjoyed today’s post—thanks so much for stopping by!

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“Love and gratitude are the constant companions of those who delight in the beauty of the world.” ~Kristin Granger

All photos were taken by Maria Vidaurre and are available for purchase in 5×7 or 8×10 inch prints. Visit: FlowingWatersArtShop.etsy.com to explore the collection and enjoy free shipping on orders over $35!

Small Art, Big Impact: Exploring Zentangles in a Mini Journal

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I recently found the perfect watercolor journal on Etsy at the WanderersPalette—a 4.75-inch square hot press journal with 140 lb watercolor paper. I usually go for cold press, but I wanted something smoother for my zentangle designs, and I’m so glad I made the switch! The size is just right—not too big, not too small—making it ideal for quick designs, especially when I’m on the go.

Whenever I feel stuck on a painting or need something calming, I love creating small designs in this journal. It’s so satisfying to finish a piece in a short time, and the repetitive patterns really help slow my thoughts down—a process I’ve come to enjoy deeply.

Since this is a fairly new journal, I’ll be filling it up with more zentangle designs. But these are the first three, and I hope they inspire you to create your own!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

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“Every artist was first an amateur.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson