How I have not seen this before today is beyond me since it has 8.2 million views on Youtube but nevertheless, it is freaking hysterical! Great video for #caturday http://youtu.be/GbycvPwr1Wg

Pina Colada Ice Pops Healthy Recipe
I am on a mission to find ice cream and popsicles that I can eat and still maintain a low sugar/low calorie diet. These popsicles only have 117 calories and are made with coconut milk. I plan on making these as well as blueberry and strawberry ones too. Found the recipe at allrecipes.com and http://therealityofskinny.tumblr.com/foodrecipes, wooohoooo!


Blend and freeze the following ingredients (don’t forget the sticks!): (Makes 6 servings)

1 can pineapple chunks, in juice
1 banana
1 can coconut milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Calories: 117 per pop :)

Stereographic Projection Photography
I am not a professional photographer in the least but I sure can appreciate a unique image when I see one. This was taken over 30 hours and is hundreds of images stitched together. Greek photographer Chris Kotsiopoloulos captured it and I sit amazed and mystified!
http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2012/04/24-hours-of-photographs-merged-into-a-single-panoramic-image/

Totally Freaking Amazing Video of Art, Video, and Music called "I Paint" by Thijme Termaat!
Not sure how I haven't seen this before but the more the video evolved the more my jaw kept hitting the floor. His paintings are wonderful but the addition of the video editing and music takes this experience to an entirely other dimension. Great way to end the evening for me!

OMGosh, freaking amazing! 

Oh, Pinterest, I do love the humor you share with me each morning, especially the laughs that make me choke on my Lucky Charms as I laugh out loud....like this one. I would so love this on a T-Shirt! #geek #starwars

New to Google+? This Might Help!
If you have joined Google+ in the past few days you may be unaware of some keyboard shortcuts you can use, especially if you want to use BOLD TEXT, use ITALIC TEXT, or use LINED OUT TEXT. Here is a tip sheet shared by +Simon Laustsen that has those and more tips on it.

If you are friends with folks who don't speak English, he has a few tips sheets in other languages in this album as well. https://plus.google.com/photos/108443027359212340995/albums/5626033258060851249

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
Just because it's my birthday month and just because I want to 'practice' before Thanksgiving, I shall make this sinfully delicious cheesecake. Thanks to Katrina for the recipe and photo as well, oh my word, total food porn!

http://www.inkatrinaskitchen.com/2011/05/chocolate-chip-cookie-cheesecake.html

Looking for more food images that leave you craving for scrumptious food:

www.foodporndaily.com

The Book Lover and the Foodie in me find this the best of both worlds! Edible little books! You can find the recipe at this blog site and I have found these as delicious as they look.
http://www.hungryhappenings.com/2011/05/how-to-create-school-books-using-corn.html

Creamy, Blackberry Frozen Yogurt altering the recipe?
I am totally intrigued by this frozen yogurt recipe....blackberry. Looks yummy, but I am wondering what I might substitute for the sweetened condensed milk to save on calories but not taste. Coconut Milk maybe? Here is the link to the recipe, any ideas?
http://www.kitchencorners.com/2009/08/creamy-blackberry-frozen-yogurt.html

New to Google+? Let Us Help! Circle
One of the first things I learned about Google+ when I joined a few months back was how friendly people are here. When I had a question, I could ask for help to Google+, the Google+ Managers, or in my stream, and help was there. As our circles grew, many of us wanted a way to help our own followers and friends coming on board so this group was formed for just that reason.
We are NOT Google employees, just an UNOFFICIAL of active users here who are willing and eager to share tips, answer questions, and seek out answers for new users. It is not necessary to follow all of us, unless you choose to. We share tips sometimes one at a time, other times in groups like +Serge K. Keller 's and +Paul Spoerry posts here, but primarily we share topics that interest us along with volunteering to help new members. If you are an active user and want to join our team, read over this post to understand who/what we are and contact me. If you are simply new to Google+, welcome, we are here to be one source, out of many, of help to you.

New to Google+? Let Us Help!+ Group Description Post - https://plus.google.com/108112557629934458248/posts/eMLHnDsPgKV

+Serge K. Keller 's Google+ Tip post https://plus.google.com/111901425213768112631/posts/DQq9CnsgKH3

+Paul Spoerry 's Google+ Tip post
https://plus.google.com/112915508949553064969/posts/Vtq5GB59wi1

(If you want to make sure you can find these tips sheets, create a circle for yourself called "Google+ tips" and share these posts with that circle. That way you can always refer back to it, and share them when your friends or family join Google+ as well.)

If you are in this circle but wish to be removed, please just let me know. If you used to be in this in this group but don't see your name here it may be that you were one of the deleted profiles that weren't following the group guideline suggestions. See the post above and message me. I work hard to keep this group filled with members who are active in sharing.

Ardith Goodwin shared a circle with you.

Lol so true!

Join the New To Google+? Team

For some of us, we love Google+ a great deal and are anxious to see it succeed. We have sent out invites, only to find that our friends, family, and co-workers join but don’t find their first experience here successful and leave after the first day. I want them to enjoy Google+ with me and am actively trying to make their first visit here one that shows the brilliance of G+. Although Google has in place many help features, we believe that there are steps we can take as a user base to help those new members feel at home from day one as well. We also realize that the Google+ Community Managers are pretty swamped and can't always engage in one on one conversations to answer questions, (although +Natalie Villalobos does a pretty sweet job!) That is where we, the users can help.

Here is how you can help:

1. Join the New To Google+? Team on http://www.group.as/+new+to+google+plus+-+let+us+help and add your profile number to our group.
By joining you are committing to these things:
a. Fill out your Profile About Page with a section labeled “New To Google? Let Us Help.”
b. Leave a link to our group.as page so that new members who join or visit your page
will be able to add some of us from day one and get help finding their way around.
c. List at least 5 people you follow that you have asked to help welcome newbies.
(Those 5 don’t have to be a member of this group, just five friends who will help you
welcome others. )
d. Occasionally create posts with this header, New To Google? Let Us Help!
Post one short, helpful tip at a time with a possible link to more info.
e. Actively engage with the new members by posting publicly along with your private posts.
f. Don’t join this group for personal gain. Please, no spammers, sales, or folks simply trying to raise follower counts. This
group is a service group of volunteers, to promote Google+ and help new users. It isn’t about popularity.
g. Share the link to your profile page with any new member you invite and post it occasionally to let new followers know
you are a New to Google+ Team Member and want to help.
h. Be knowledgeable about how Google+ works, know the Googlers who are developers and community managers, and
know where to send folks who ask, "How do I find people who have the same interests as I do?"

Can’t Join The Group But Want To Help?

1. If you don’t feel you are knowledgeable enough about the ins and outs of how Google+ works but still want to join in to help
new members, consider doing the steps above but change it up, “New to Google+? These Folks Can Help” and give a link
to our group.
2. You can always create posts on your own, as you become more familiar with how G+ works simply by using the phrase in
your post and sharing a tip at a time. By sharing the link to your profile you not only help new members see why a thorough
Profile is so important, but it helps your new invites feel they have a connection here from the start.
3. Form your own welcoming committee for your new invites and place links to their profiles on your About Page. You can
also participate in The Public Circles Project by +Jarek Klimek at this link:
https://plus.google.com/111873853137122484021/posts/PtKotY6hLGg

The beauty in this project is simple. We, who actively use Google+, can spread the word and throw out the welcome mat for new users by changing our About Pages, Sharing Links to Them, Sharing G+Tips in our Posts, and Being Open to Answer Questions About Google+ for our own followers. Will you join me?

Please remember, there are lots and lots of lists circulating which are helpful for some but our group is not to raise your follower counts. Please join and contribute if you want to help make Google+ more user friendly to new members. If you do join, Message me that you are joining please so I can add you to my circle of helpers If you share this posts, PLEASE, disable comment sharing so I can keep up here, thanks!

Welcome New Members to Google+
Good Morning, or Evening, depending on your time zone. As I watched my stream flow by I was hesitant to post a status right now because I didn't want it to really get lost in the flow. Then, I realized that many new members don't have streams that move quickly, so here is a shout out to all of you. Welcome to Google+! For me, this network is by far the best social network I have ever used. I learn, share, and have developed friendships with people from all walks of life, and look forward to connecting with you.

If you feel lost at first, don't worry. I still do at times, but there are people who are eager to help. When I have a question about how Google+ works I usually first throw it out in my stream. This gives me instant feedback. If the answer isn't clear to my circles though, I will go to Google+ Help which is in the right hand corner of the black toolbar, and it looks like a little wheel. There is also a group of us, not Google employees, just users who really love Google+, that are willing to help out with new users any way we can. Our About Pages have links to tips, suggested users you can follow that will engage newbies, and lots of other ideas which can help make your experience here successful from day one.

http://www.group.as/+new+to+google+plus+-+let+us+help

I have found that the more I interact here, the better my experience. I follow many, but follow wisely. I share original content, but I also share content from others that I find interesting. I comment, debate, and engage with those I meet here, which is key for me. Over the past three months there have been tons of tip sheets, articles on how to use Google+, and threads about this product. Now that search is active, I am sure you will be able to pull up some of those same things if you choose to. Google+ does have a few rules, like no nudity and such, but overall, it is a very welcoming, open place.

If you are new to Google+ please take some time to let me and your circles know that. If you have questions, ask. I look forward to sharing with you.

(thanks again David for the photo)

Celebrating My Born Day
Wow! Totally blessed birthday today! I'll say this for FB, they are one up on Google+ for helping share the love on a birthday day. As much as I hate to get older, I totally felt surrounded by much love and friendship, for that I am blessed. My best friend baked me the best birthday cake ever, two loaves of homemade sourdough bread. It's gifts like these, made at home with simple ingredients, that mean the most to me. I carved our a hole and we lit a candle, such a fun way to celebrate my "born day." Just now coming up for air and I see I missed the roll out of brand pages and lots of juicy fun stuff here. After Friday, which is the day we celebrate our First Anniversary for our gallery, Art(ology), I will come up for air and be able to hang out in the Googlesphere. I have missed YOU, the conversation, the friendship, and so grateful that this social network is still my favorite place to call home. Peace friends, be blessed and loved tonight!

Women of Google+, Beware of this type of email spam
Well, this is a first. The text bellow came from a guy using my email link here on my profile, which I have seriously debated whether or not to disable. He didn't ask for money, and I didn't know what to think about this. I laughed out loud, felt a wee bit sad for the lad, and then I visited his profile. He only follows women. Now I love welcoming new folks here, in fact, I work hard at it because I love G+, but this.....is a bit much. +Tenny Milton won't see this because I blocked him, but to any men out there thinking about trying this strategy out on the women of Google+, you will be in for a rude awakening I am afraid.


Message sent to me from Tenny Milton:
"Hello How are you doing I will Like to know more about you My name is Olanrewaju I am black but open to any race. I'm very mellow, soft-spoken, kind, considerate, happy, responsible, sometimes adventurous, love to laugh (hopefully your funny), love to cuddle, positive outlook on life and love going to church .. I'm a romantic Man. I love the little things in a relationship... holding hands, text messages, and small but grand gestures. I love the idea of being with someone,and have had a tendency to rush into something. It's proved to lead to more short-term relationships, and yet I would consider myself to be a long-term kind of a guy. I'm well-mannered and respectful, not one for conflict. I'm quiet until I get to know someone well, and even then I'd never be considered a louder mouth. I find solace in most things and don't need to be entertained or constantly going. I don't need to find someone, but I want to. I miss having someone to miss, someone that makes me smile, who wants to be loved and appreciated as much as I do.and who will take care of me. I am tired of being Independent, and I know how to take care of my body and people around me.I believe that the mind and body are connected, and if you let one go to waste, then the other one probably has too.I AM A VERY LOVING PERSON WHO HAS NEVER HAD LUCK TO FIND THAT ONE GOOD AND TRUSTING WOMAN, JUST USERS AND ABUSERS OVER AND OVER AGAIN. I JUST WANT TO FIND ONE WOMAN WHO IS NOT GOING TO PLAY GAMES WITH MY HEART AND TELL ME WHAT SHE THINKS I WANT TO HEAR. I JUST WANT THAT ONE WOMAN (MY SOULMATE) TO TELL ME WHAT IS IN HER HEART AND MIND. I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THE ABILITY TO LIVE A DRAMA FREE LIFE FOREVER. i hope we can get to know ourself better.."

Are you interested in joining or starting your own Circle of Peace aka Politics Free Circle
One of the things I love most about Google + is the amount of beauty, ideas, and words shared here by all of you. I had been craving a different type of social network, one where intellectual ideas were fostered and conversations were active. The past few months have been such a delightful change and I wanted to personally say thank you for adding me into your circles, sharing so much of yourselves with me, and helping foster that beauty in my life every day.

When I woke up this morning and began to view my stream I noticed a huge difference in the type of posts that were being shared compared to before, especially ones of political nature. With the election season fast approaching, I realized that there will be times that I wish to engage in some amount of political dialogue, but for the most part, I want Google+ to be that source of beauty, peace, and creativity for me, not my political fix for the day. I totally respect everyone’s right to share what they choose, but I was left pondering how my behavior would change so that my experience here would remain a source of low stress. For my own serenity I need to take refuge from the daily barrage of politics, but I don’t want to disconnect from all of you either and love a great debate as much as anyone.

What I decided I needed was a Circle of Peace. Yes, I am in the Peace Project but that isn’t what I mean by this. My Circle of Peace will be filled by those of you who wish to actively share images, music, ideas, and words that promote peace, beauty, calmness, and compassion but no politics, religion, anger, or judgment. When I visit this stream I need to connect with it as a refuge, to breathe, enjoy, and engage with others surrounded by positive energy...just so I can recharge my batteries.
If you are interested in this type of circle and willing to actively share with me let me know.

Things I hope to share and see in this circle are:
Art, Poetry, Music, Photography, Ideas, Laughter, and Reflections that spread beauty, kindness, peace, and love, but are not wrapped around anything derogatory or offensive.
I will also use this title when sharing to this circle so that it is more easily seen and won’t get lost in the stream as much. Circle of Peace Post
Once again, THANK YOU for circling me, making me laugh, cry, pull my hair out, and feel like howling at the moon at times, and for being willing to read my wordy posts, ;)

Google+ Simple Tip - How to Archive Posts
Archiving my posts is not something that Google+ makes easy, they only show the most current 250. Yes, my posts are searchable now, but that is time consuming and I am forgetful. I learned yesterday, in a hangout, that Evernote is a great solution to this because it gives me an email address I can use to share my posts with.

All I did was:
Set up an Evernote circle using Evernote email address.
Share to that circle. Post is archived.

I know there are other services that do something similar, like Drop Box. What are you using to archive your posts?

National Chocolate Day December 28
Just to celebrate one of the best 'national' days ever, here is probably one of my favorite chocolate desserts of all time......oh, sinful isn't it? 

Happy Saturday and Happy #Caturday  to my Googlesphere! 

Southern Colloquialisms
Hey ya'll! I am working on an art project incorporating southern phrases, colloquialisms, similes, metaphors, or words. Do you have ONE favorite that you remember from childhood or that you have heard often? A friend of mine says, " I am going over to mamanem's, you want to go?" I just have to laugh out loud at that one but she is actually serious. Help a southern girl out and give me some help will ya? (Please keep them as clean as a bar of Ivory Soap, :)

I am not a professional photographer at all, but I must say, taking photos of my glass collection is just incredibly fun.

I have no clue who wrote it, have seen it popping up in my world every which and way, so that usually tells me I am to pay attention. So tonight, I head to bed meditating on this, and writing it passionately on my heart as well. Peace to all of you friends!

Wow, it has been a rough week. One of the challenges of living with a body with chronic pain or illness is that some days can be unpredictable. I can go to bed feeling pretty swell, and due to a change in the weather, or for no reason at all, getting up the next day makes me feel like a Mack Truck rolled over me. For me, there are always two decisions I have to make on mornings like this. Will I give in to the pain or will I do my damnedest to fight it? Today, I chose to fight it. I don't always do it successfully, at least I was able to chase the Mullygrubbies away for the most part. That is a catapult in the right direction!

Meet Nikki Our New Family Member
Ever since we lost our beloved Skippy DaFlippy my hubs has been itching to get a new dog and early in the week that came to fruition. I was hesitant at first because we have had our share of difficult dogs, but Little Miss Nikki has proven herself to be a total charmer. She loves to ride in the car, take long naps, and doesn't have puppy breathe that will peel paint from the walls. My kind of dog.

Banana Keeper
I just had to laugh out loud when I saw this. Yes, it seems very practical and useful as I hate a bruised banana but then I just shake my head and ask myself.....really?

I know you are just dying to get one, ;)
http://www.americastestkitchenfeed.com/gadgets-and-gear/2011/10/bunker-that-banana/

I have been reorganizing my photos today and the more I get used to Picasa the more I like it. This album contains many of my watercolor paintings from when I first started painting to more recent ones. I really love seeing how my style changes over time. I also realize that I don't spend a lot of time looking through albums here on Google+ but think I might do some of that today. Hope yours is a blessed one.

INTERESTED IN HELPING NEWBIES OR INVITES WITH GOOGLE+ ISSUES?

Join the Unofficial New To Google+? Team
For some of us, we love Google+ a great deal and are anxious to see it succeed. We have sent out invites, only to find that our friends, family, and co-workers join but don’t find their first experience here successful and leave after the first day. Although Google+ has in place many help features, we believe that there are steps we can take as a user base to help those new members feel at home from day one. Although we are not Google+ employees, can will also serve as a gateway to give Google+ feedback about our experiences with new member issues within our circles.

Here is how you can help:
Join the Unofficial New To Google+? Team on group.as.
http://www.group.as/+new+to+google+plus+-+let+us+help

By joining you are committing to doing these two things:
1. Fill out your About Page with a section labeled “New To Google? Let Us Help.”
2. Leave a link to our group.as page so that new members who join or visit your page
will be able to add some of us from day one and get help finding their way around.
(Suggestion: Put a personal message here that you feel is important about welcoming new members)

These are SUGGESTED GUIDELINES, BUT NOT REQUIRED.
Add a link to the Google+ Help Page http://www.google.com/support/profiles/?p=help_center&hl=en
Add a link to +Natalie Villalobos About Page. She is one of the Community Managers and has links the best links on her
page for new members.
Add our group members to a “New to Google” circle so we can share tips and ways that we are helping new members.
List at least 5 people and hyperlink their names so your new members can follow them from day one.
Occasionally create posts with this header, New To Google? Let Us Help!
Post one short, helpful tip at a time with a possible link to more info.
Actively engage with the new members by posting publicly along with your private posts.
Share the link to your profile page with any new member you invite and post it occasionally to let new followers know you
are a New to Google+ Team Member.
Share this post with your followers. The more users we have that join in this effort the more welcome Google+ can become.

Not Ready to Join But Want to Help Your Circles Stay On Top of Tips?
1. If you don’t feel you are knowledgeable enough about the ins and outs of how Google+ works but still want to join in to help new members, consider doing the steps above but change it up, “New to Google+? These Folks Can Help” and give a link to our group or other Google+ members who share helpful tips.

2. You can always create posts on your own, as you become more familiar with how G+ works, by sharing tips and hints about Google+. (Remember, you might see tips in your stream, but unless you share them, your followers might miss out.)

3. Follow some of us to stay connected with Google+ tips. It is not necessary to follow our entire list unless you choose to. Just by following some, you will see Google+ tips in your stream quite often. We all share other types of interests, not just Google+ tips, but you will see a lot of tips in your stream if you follow all of us.

FOR GROUP MEMBERS: Bookmark this post http://bit.ly/nyrvbR for future reference because it's the best way we can communicate for now. Comments will remain active here, unless we get too many and need a new static page. I tried posting to my circle, but if we all don't follow one another, the communication is broken.

SHARE THIS PAGE WITHIN YOUR CIRCLES IF YOU WISH
GIVE ME SOME FEEDBACK. WHAT NEWBIE ISSUES CONCERN YOU AND YOU HAVE ENCOUNTERED?
(I will be condensing these issues to share with the community managers.)

Here is a link explaining the hangout I had with +Natalie Villalobos https://plus.google.com/108112557629934458248/posts/Sjp9mdncQTA
I need to know if any of you would be willing to have a hangout in the near future with her and possibly some other community managers. These hangouts will be a way we can bring specific issues to their attention and help them understand what we are seeing within our circles and from new invites/members.

(Please see the New to Google+ Circle I shared for the most current list or visit our group.as page above.)
New members as of 9/8
+Daymond Decker +Ian Atkin +Jaana Nyström +Paresh Prajapati +Pradeep Peter +Amanda Blain +Lonny Cloud /Thunder Puppy Art +Cesar JB +Wayne WANG +Brian Krassenstein +Rikardo Lumbantobing +M Sinclair Stevens +Reynaldo Orio +Kimberly Lau +Bill Olson +Ray Bilcliff +Deise Lemos Almeida +TERRY ELLIOTT +Christy Knight +Angel Figueroa +Andrij Harasewych +Pooja Srinivas +Scott McCarthy +Radek Dudka +Leonard Harris +Wes Hoye +Gayla Wennstrom +Allison Sekuler +Maynard stratton +Kim Mahan +Thomas Power +Kushal Desai +Robert Matthew Cook +Ed Fernandez +Paul Spoerry +Mike Corbett +Carter Gibson +Serge K. Keller +Moritz Tolxdorff +Alan Truly +Cliff Roth +Ayoub Khote +John Gavalik +Jonathan Chandler +Dennis Freitas +Rick Jones +Marc Jansen +Yifat Cohen +Cat von Hassel-Davies +Mark Watson +Dbudlov Johnson +Eric hoffman

Added 9/9
+Ryan Crowe +S Sriram +Daniel Ibanez +MILOS JANATA +Ivan Dimitrijević +Charlie Hoover +Alister Macintyre +Trudy Connor +Christy Knight

Parenting and Kid Network on Google+
I am really excited that our parenting network on Google+ is growing. If you are a parent of young ones through pre-teens, or if you spend time with that age group this is a circle of resources here on Google+ that you might be interested in. These people and pages share creative, hands on activities, as well as educational aids, How To's, and home school lessons. There are also pages here that share great children's books, games, toys, etc. As always, adding a large circle is handy, but weed through and see exactly who fits your needs and let the rest go. I love the entire circle but you might find that a handful are right for you. If you know of other parenting resources on Google+ that are not included, please let me know so I can add them! 

Orthopedic Challenges Vs. Optimism
Most days I am pretty optimistic. In fact, I have often been called a Pollyanna because of my insane optimism at times despite the huge obstacles I have faced while walking the planet. But, today, in this moment, I feel the need to vent, to embrace my discouragement and frustration, and say to myself, "It's not ok today." Many of you know my history, but most probably don't. The short summary is that I am on my 24th surgery in my 44 years due to a genetic orthopedic issue that wears my joints/ligaments out too quickly. Both ankles have been rebuilt, my right knee is partially replaced, my neck is fused, and my lumber has 6 screws keeping it stable. All of this led me to have to leave my beloved teaching career and face life a bit differently. I am ok with differently. I am even ok with dealing with medical challenges for the most part because I know how much worse it could be. I am not facing a terminal illness. Yes, I live with a life of chronic pain, but I will take that any day over a terminal illness and 99% of the time I embrace the fact that I live an extraordinary life. Yesterday though, on a day where I learned that another disc, the one above my fusion has collapsed, I am angry.
It would be one thing if I had lifted a car or something, or tried to climb a tree and busted my behind, but no. I simply woke up and had another excruciating shot of pain wake me to reality and remind me that my body is not my friend at times. It's not fair, it doesn't make sense, and it can be infuriating in light of the dreams and visions my mind has dancing around....ones I will never see to fruition for the most part.
My art and my faith will be what pulls me through again, along with the support of my family and friends. I just simply wish they wouldn't have to. For today I simply wish that I could begin a year and know that it will be one of wellness and healing and outrageous joy. I will get there, I will. But it won't be today, and once I get past the anger, deal with the path that is before me, I will be ok. I am grateful though to be able to say to a group of friends like you all that life just sucks sometimes. I'll get my pollyanna on tomorrow, but right now......gahhhhhhhhhh!

The Call of the Sea 
Living along the Gulf Coast just gets in the blood and no matter how far away from home I am the colors, patterns, and textures the coast always call me home. I have been working in a mixed media collage series showcasing my love of the coast for an upcoming show. Really loving the walk down memory lane. Each piece in the series has a meditative text written on the canvas. Here is the words for this piece: 
"What is the call of the ocean on our hearts? Is it the ebb and flow of the spirit between love and connection? Is it the fluidity of the movement between coming forth and drawing back? For so many the ocean calls out to us, touching a place deep within, grounding us by water, life, and the beauty bound not only by its surface but also its depths. When one experiences the call of the deep along the coast we become part of it in a way that is difficult to pen. It is who we become, our way of life, our knowing between the land and the sea. Our families are shaped by it, contained by it, and impacted by it, as it was meant to be. May our longing for the coast remain in our hearts, be protected by our actions, and may we be the stewards of the tide. May we forever love and honor its beauty and the gifts it offers us. 
" The Call of the Sea" 22" by 28" collage on canvas"
#mixedmediaartwork   #collageart  

You know it's going to be a great day when you find a superman Supergirl symbol on the ground while pumping gas. I take this as a sign that I CAN GET IT DONE today! #randomblessings

Sending all of you some "super power love" today too!

Follower Counts Do Not Equate To Celebrity Status
Lately I have been getting feedback from newbies that they feel intimidated here on Google+ for several reasons but one in particular has stuck out to me as more of an issue than others. The perception from some is that "If someone has a high follower count here they will never take the time to engage with those of us who are new." I can only speak for myself but will let you in on a little secret about that crazy follower count and go out on a limb to shed some light on it. For me, it is a total crock. (ducks head) I am no celebrity and I LOVE to engage with anyone who wants to engage with me. I sit at home, in Alabama, most days in pajamas, and paint, or write, or cook, and simply take photos of things I love and I share them here. I study and work hard at posting well written/knowledgeable posts, but that doesn't make me in of need to the Google+ paparazzi. Some days I even deal with nightmare chronic pain but that's ok too. What I need for you to know is that I am an ordinary person her on Google+ who chooses to 1. Be Myself, 2. Be Kind, and 3. Reach out to strangers.

I don't sell a brand, could give a rats arse about numbers, and really want you to know that on a hunch, the MAJORITY of us that have what appears to be a large follower count to you who are new, most likely are just like me and enjoy interacting with YOU......and we are not celebrities.
So, please, ignore the follower counts. Be yourself, be kind, share what you love, and engage with others about what they love....that is my recipe for having a great Google+ experience here. (And if it helps, picture us all nekkid with hairy chests or something lol), just don't be intimidated in the least.

I have been thinking a great deal about why and how I am drawn to color. This morning's collage made me reflect a great deal about how color helps speed up the healing process for me.

Each collage, with the exception of one, is 4" by 4" and created in 30 min or less. Their story can be found on the links in each post.

Sweet and Sour Grapes
I saw this recipe floating on Pinterest and thought it would be fun to try for Easter! All it takes are washed green grapes, a ziploc bag, and one box Lime Jell-O. Shake them up and serve. Yes, I could have served them fresh but for a special treat they were yummy today. For an alternative you could use red grapes and raspberry jello too!

Finally, in Wellington, New Zealand, as I type, my dress is part of the finals for the World of Wearable Art International Designers show. I was not allowed to post my pic previously with the name of the show for judging reasons, but tonight's the night. "Tribute To Kandinsky" is in the Centerport Illumination section, which showcases glow in the dark dress designs. Sadly, I missed out on the chance of a lifetime to attend due to my surgeries but to even have a dress in this show is a remarkable achievement. Raise a glass with me, whether I win or not, I am raising the roof tonight with glee! www.worldofwearableart.com

Our new daughter in law is from Japan but is not on Google+ yet. Since getting to know her and learning about the Japanese culture I have become interested in learning the Japanese language as well. When I joined Google+ and realized how global it is, I was hoping to connect with some Japanese members who also speak English. I used Google+ search, but even with the use of Google Translate, I am realizing that finding those members is a challenge. Do any of you have members of your circles who are Japanese but speak English as well? I so need some help in connecting with some.

Love This Rocking Chair!
The design of this rocking chair by artist marija cvetinovic is brilliant. It not only looks beautiful, but it encourages conversation and connection, two of my musts for a happy family. I might consider a different fabric, but overall, would love to hang out in this. You can find info about it at the link below.
http://www.houzz.com/pro/anturija/marija-cvetinovic

Totally had a change of pace with this abstract as I started out with my two least favorite colors, brown and grey. What I discovered was that they helped mellow my other colors into a more mature palette and gave me the confidence to embrace their potential. Looking forward to seeing it framed in my show! 

The Plus Project Week Four

Wow! The Plus Project has finally come to an end for me and what a great experience it has been. +Mike Searle started this project a few months back, to introduce 30 Google+ profiles in a creative way, and I had the privileged of completing round three. For this past month I showcased members using tidbits I learned from their public posts, About Pages, and images, then wrote a poem about each person in 30 minutes or less. The poems are collected on my website, broken down by weeks.

This experience taught me many things about Google+. There are so many here who don't post publicly, so the numbers are off in my opinion, because for every profile I wanted to use, there were at least SEVEN I couldn't use because they had no public posts. This tells me there are lots of people here we don't even realize. Visiting someone's profile and reading through their posts and About Page is the very best way to get to know who they are. In fact, after gathering data, I would guess I know these people better than they realize, and it makes me question just how much public info I actually share. Lastly, there are really phenomenal people here on Google+. They all have talent, brilliant minds, lots of different interests, but there was one trait that everyone had in common: They actively enjoyed meeting and conversing with new members. That says a lot about a social network and the people who are found here.

My hat is off to Mike Searle for having the vision for this project and to +J.D. de León who will take up the project for round four. Can't wait to see who he profiles and what creative medium he chooses. We might be seeing several new Avatar folks in our streams. I do hope you will take the time to read through some of the 30 poems and profiles I showcased, you won't regret following these folks.

Week Four Plus Project Showcase Members With Poems : +Giselle Minoli +Adam Boenig +pio dal cin +Christina Trapolino +byron rempel +Gheorghe Chesler +Nicole Stich and +J.D. de León

I do have these members on a Plus Project Circle, let me know if you would like me to share it with you.

It's a dreary day down in southern Alabama and days like this make me crave southern comfort foods. One of my favorites is grits with butter. I was raised on this, and short of chicken and dumplings, it's my go to food when I want to curl and get warm. I would guess we all have foods that we connect with in some way and since so many of you are global, I was wondering what your comfort food is?

I love it when someone suggests a new music website that I just seem to click with. Thank you +Linda Jew for suggesting www.stereomood.com, which lets me listen to music based on mood rather than musician. Totally groovy tunes for painting with today!

Playing around with some smaller torn paper collages in preparation for our Christmas Artwalk this week. Not sure if I am quite done but decided to let this one rest in the Googlesphere a bit. Hope your day is blessed and filled with Peace today!

Wooooohoooo! This painting of Stewartfield sold today to a lady who 'secretly' purchased it for her husband on their 10th anniversary! I love it when one of my pieces connects with a couple that way. Totally excited for them!

Today was one of those days where I was faced with having to choose to be courageous or choose not to. I wish I could say the decision came easy. There are times in my life that I have faced fear squarely in the eyes and with great determination and courage, conquered it. When they said I would be paralyzed in both legs, I proved them wrong. When, as a child, I was a victim of gun violence, I journeyed on. What bothers me though, despite being able to pull courage up from the bottom of my gut sometimes, is that I wish I could recall examples of courage from people I encountered growing up.

I know they faced their fears. I know their lives weren't perfect and they overcame great obstacles with courage. I simply wish they would have shared their stories more freely, to teach us, the younger ones in their life, that courage is not simply for the noble or brave or valiant. I wish I could have understood that that moments of courage throughout my life could have been witnessed by merely seeing someone stand back up, carry on, despite the overwhelming desire to quit.

I am becoming more acutely aware these days that to live an extraordinary life the definition of courage for me must change. I must begin to acknowledge that in moments of failure, it is courageous to begin again. Climbing mountains takes courage, but getting up from that chair and putting one foot in front of the other in the face of fear is a mountain in itself. That is where my heart is tonight, IRL, and on G+.

Google+ Welcoming Committee Idea
One of the most common answers I hear from someone who has come to visit Google+ and left shortly after was that it was boring, lonely, or they couldn't figure it out. I can't tell you how many invites I have sent out only to hear these answers from them. I even wrote a blog post, "I have joined Google+ now what?" to help bridge the transition from the other network but still, the drastic difference between G+ and FB was hard to overcome for them. Then I got to thinking. When I go to a convention what is one of the first things I do when I get there? Register and then visit the welcome desk. I pick up an agenda, list of available events, but mainly, I meet the folks that have the answers to questions I might have. Most of the time, if they don't know the answer they help me find someone who does, and usually, they all have the same color shirt on. You know this to be the case right? Well, I propose the same service here on Google+ for those who wish to participate.

I think if there was a Google+ welcoming committee, made up of everyday users of G+, that were knowledgeable about how it works, made new members feel welcome from day one, and could link them up with other groups or users that had similar interests newcomers might just decide to stick around. No, I don't work for Google and am not being paid to promote G+. Yes, I believe in this network and want to see it thrive, especially for the average user, who is reluctant. So here is what I propose and if you are interested in joining this committee let me know, I can't do it alone.

To become a member of this group you must:
1. Be available to welcome new members by answering How To Google+ questions that may have been asked multiple times.
2. Be knowledgeable about how Google+ functions, and have access to helpful tips, or people who can answer questions about Google+ if you don't know the answer.
3. Be willing to suggest users based on their content and or level of engagement here on Google+.
4. Be willing to promote the community here on Google+, not yourself. (What I mean by this is, this is not the group for you to spam, give sales pitches, or increase your follower base just for the numbers.)
5. Be willing to follow new members to mentor them through the initial joining phase.

The best way I know how to do this is to begin a curated group at group.as so that one, the list can be managed by several moderators to maintain its purpose and quality and two, so that there is one link we can share with new members who join. I also think if we ask that these words, "Google+ Welcoming Committee" is placed at the top of our posts that we use to share with new followers, then new users will know we are here to help them and are approachable.

Before this project grows wings though I need some feedback. This type of group will only be as effective as the members that choose to embrace it. So, give me some feedback. If you were an average user, not a tech oriented one, would you have benefited from finding this group when you joined? If so, are there membership guidelines I have not included that you feel would help this group become more helpful/effective? Mull it over, let me know your thoughts. I love Google+. I believe in my heart it is a place to bring the diversity of the human race together to share similar interests, passions, and friendships. What do you think?
(If you share this post please disable comments on yours so that all the comments will remain here, thanks.)

Wonderful Avocado and Grilled Corn Salad Recipe
My daughter in law Ai, who is Japanese, is visiting with us for a few weeks and we have big plans for art, nature, and food while she is here! One of the first things we are choosing to cook is traditional tacos with avocado and grilled corn salad. Lisa, of the Authentic Suburban Gourmet website, has the best ever corn salad recipe for this, and for my vegan fans, it's meatless! If you are a fresh veggie or taco kind of foodie, this recipe is one for your books as well!

Recipe and lots of juicy tidbits about Avocados can be found here:
http://authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2011/05/avocado-and-grilled-corn-salad-with.html

Please Don't Follow Me If...... A Nudity/Cleavage POV Post


Because I have had a lot of new followers lately and the issue of the sharing of nudity/cleavage seems to be popping up I want to share my POV if you are considering following me. I find the human body most beautiful and love sharing that beauty in art, discussion, and the written word. I don't cringe when I see a painting of a partially nude figure in my stream, and enjoy an intellectual, often humorous discussion of sexual topics with consenting adults here on Google+. With that said, I need to share what I don't find appropriate and having no control of the types of posts that show up in my incoming stream, I ask you to please consider this before you follow me.

I don't want to see pics or gifs of partially naked female or male body parts which are posted for entertainment or shock value purposes at all. I would never post a pic of a hairy, partially clothed testicle, regardless of purpose, and I would be grateful if images of the female body, such as wet, twirling breast gifs are not shared in my incoming stream either. I do realize there are those that feel they should be able to post what they want, for any purpose, but G+ pushes your posts into my world through that incoming stream which is an issue. There are times that my family sees my stream as well, and I would hate to have that type of image forced on them if I happen to click on incoming. If you choose to share within your own, private circles, this won't be an issue.

So, I am asking, please, if you choose to share that type of image here on Google+, please don't follow me. There are many more men here than women, and personally, I don't choose to foster an environment here that encourages that type of post in any way. Although I know that Google+ has a no nudity clause, including cleavage, in their user Terms of Service, I realize you might choose to enjoy that type of thing and that is your choice and I am not making a judgement call as to if you should or shouldn't. I simply would appreciate you choosing to keep it out of my incoming. Thanks!

Rolo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
This is probably one of my all time favorite cookie recipes and Jamie of mybakingaddiction.com has the best recipe I have tried so far. I bake these and pack them as gifts because they give the gourmet cookies a run for their money. Thought some of you might want to try these Rolo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies if you are a cookie lover like me.

Here is Jamie's post with the recipe.

http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/rolo-stuffed-chocolate-chip-cookies/

It is dreary and dark here in Mobile as the beginning of what they say will be five days of rain begins. The absence of light depresses me, so to fight back, I think I will fill my stream with some brilliant color today, just in case I am not the only one. Here is my watercolor painting, "Bright Waters." In honor of our home we lost on Dauphin Island due to Hurricane Ivan. These colors lift my spirit, hope they will yours as well..

I missed the local Sketchcrawl yesterday because I was in bed with my back but I chose to sketch and paint just the same. This is an image of the Cathedral in the heart of downtown Mobile which sits across from our art gallery. I adore our jewel of a city, there is so much to see, sketch, paint, and do if you are a creative. Can't imagine not living near a place without access to artists. Hope you all had a blessed weekend! #sketchbook   #watercolorpainting  

It's a standoff! 
Two things are going on in this pic....beside the obvious. #1....this is not our turtle, he just happened upon my front walkway and #2 Yodaman either has the patience of Job or is contemplating the most clever way to go ninja on the poor turtle. Either way, it added to an odd and eventful afternoon to say the least. 

Peppermint Bark Snowflakes
This time of year peppermint calls my name. I put it in my coffee, my cocoa, my ice cream, but what I most love to do with it is to make peppermint bark and share it with as many folks as I can over the holidays. In fact, if I could, I would beam each of you up some just to say Merry Christmas and spread a little high living with all of you. There are tons of ways to make it, but this year I have found the recipe and steps that Rachel uses on Baked By Rachel the ones I embraced because I fell in love with the silicone snowflake mold. As always you can just make it and bust it up, but I am finding that sharing a little beauty with my foods this holiday season seems to add a bit of something extra special. If you have never made it I encourage you to try it, and if you hate peppermint switch to nuts or fruit. It makes one of the easiest and best gifts ever!

Here are the steps on Rachels' website! http://www.bakedbyrachel.com/2010/11/peppermint-bark

Celebrating #firstfridayartwalk  for the first time in a long time! This is one of my mixed media collages on canvas using acrylic skins and hand painted papers. "Ardithian Sonbird" 

Happy Thanksgiving To My Googlesphere Family!

It's our first Thanksgiving together here in the Googlesphere and I have to say, after having a brief respite from G+ lately, I am grateful for the connections and friendships I have built here. Rarely does a social network provide such valuable relationships for me on a daily basis but I feel that here, have much gratitude for it, and miss it when I am busy living with my family and friend peeps. My hopes are that all of you will be blessed in the coming days, feel much appreciation from me, and know you are valued deeply. May the turkey, or ham, or gumbo be fine, may no one go without, and may you know I send ((((((hugs))))))) your way.

Tiny Tree Frog
This has got to be the tiniest frog I have seen. I picked it up on on a piece of bark because if you can tell, it is smaller than my thumbnail pictured at the bottom of the pic. I have no clue what type it is, but I am always amazed about the beauty and variety in nature, especially on a miniature scale. 

Heather of Sprinkle Bakes Key Lime Swirl Cheesecake Bar Recipe
You know I couldn't go to bed without sharing a to die for dessert recipe, and this green would be a great addition to any Halloween parties you might be planning. I had my very first real key lime today. Yes....very first sad to say, but we were given a key lime tree last spring and it is loaded with fruit now. Based on the directions hanging off the tree, lol, I picked my first one today and it almost turned my mouth inside out because it was so tart. I quickly dipped it into a bit of sugar and licked it again, ohhhhhh....divine citrus to say the least. Realizing how delicious this little fruit is, I went on the hunt for key lime recipes and came across this one. Must try this for sure.

Heather wrote the recipe and Confession's of a Cookbook Queen shared it which can be found here:
http://www.confessionsofacookbookqueen.com/2011/05/guest-post-key-lime-swirl-cheesecake-bars/

I saw this posted on my friends FB page and laughed out loud because it seems lately all I see over there are quotes about life....and the random cat. So, in honor of Caturday here on Google+, I leave you with this quote.....and a cat, ;)

RESHARE:
I started this discussion thread this morning but wanted to share it again this evening with you. Would you be interested in chiming in and giving some feedback about this? Would you be interested in participating?

Reshared text:
Google+ Welcoming Committee Idea
One of the most common answers I hear from someone who has come to visit Google+ and left shortly after was that it was boring, lonely, or they couldn't figure it out. I can't tell you how many invites I have sent out only to hear these answers from them. I even wrote a blog post, "I have joined Google+ now what?" to help bridge the transition from the other network but still, the drastic difference between G+ and FB was hard to overcome for them. Then I got to thinking. When I go to a convention what is one of the first things I do when I get there? Register and then visit the welcome desk. I pick up an agenda, list of available events, but mainly, I meet the folks that have the answers to questions I might have. Most of the time, if they don't know the answer they help me find someone who does, and usually, they all have the same color shirt on. You know this to be the case right? Well, I propose the same service here on Google+ for those who wish to participate.

I think if there was a Google+ welcoming committee, made up of everyday users of G+, that were knowledgeable about how it works, made new members feel welcome from day one, and could link them up with other groups or users that had similar interests newcomers might just decide to stick around. No, I don't work for Google and am not being paid to promote G+. Yes, I believe in this network and want to see it thrive, especially for the average user, who is reluctant. So here is what I propose and if you are interested in joining this committee let me know, I can't do it alone.

To become a member of this group you must:
1. Be available to welcome new members by answering How To Google+ questions that may have been asked multiple times.
2. Be knowledgeable about how Google+ functions, and have access to helpful tips, or people who can answer questions about Google+ if you don't know the answer.
3. Be willing to suggest users based on their content and or level of engagement here on Google+.
4. Be willing to promote the community here on Google+, not yourself. (What I mean by this is, this is not the group for you to spam, give sales pitches, or increase your follower base just for the numbers.)
5. Be willing to follow new members to mentor them through the initial joining phase.

The best way I know how to do this is to begin a curated group at group.as so that one, the list can be managed by several moderators to maintain its purpose and quality and two, so that there is one link we can share with new members who join. I also think if we ask that these words, "Google+ Welcoming Committee" is placed at the top of our posts that we use to share with new followers, then new users will know we are here to help them and are approachable.

Before this project grows wings though I need some feedback. This type of group will only be as effective as the members that choose to embrace it. So, give me some feedback. If you were an average user, not a tech oriented one, would you have benefited from finding this group when you joined? If so, are there membership guidelines I have not included that you feel would help this group become more helpful/effective? Mull it over, let me know your thoughts. I love Google+. I believe in my heart it is a place to bring the diversity of the human race together to share similar interests, passions, and friendships. What do you think?
(If you share this post please disable comments on yours so that all the comments will remain here, thanks.)

Flickr is allowing users to blacken photographs of other users to show their support for stopping SOPA/PIPA.

Christmas Day Tornado in Mobile
It has been a harrowing day in Mobile. This is a pic of the tornado that tore through our city this evening. My home and family are ok, but many of my friends' homes are not. It is heartbreaking to know that any tornado wreaks havoc but on Christmas Day it is even more insulting. Grateful that no one died but simply stunned at the devastation in town. As the sun rises our city will see just how bad it is. Please, if you are the praying type, please say one for us. 

Is it just me or is any one else exhausted from trying to keep up with the blogging, social networking, marketing parts of the art/writing world with less and less time of actual production? Either it has just been a really long day or the "You're Not Doing Enough" voices are stuck in repeat mode. Geesh, what happened to waking up and just being able to sling some paint or words? Sigh......

Wooohoooo! We are new grandparents! Benjamin Henry Stewart is celebrating his Born Day! So sad that we can't be there because I am too sick but so excited to have a Christmas baby to celebrate with. Will share a pic soon. Standing on my head with glee right about now!!!! 8 pounds, 2 ounces and healthy! Henry just might make me change my mind about December, ;)

Progress Not Perfection, A Journey of Wellness Week Three
If you have been following me since last July you might be aware that I struggle with orthopedic issues and chronic pain, and that I have had more than my share of surgeries. If you haven't, to make a long story short, I have had both ankles reconstructed, right knee surgery 9 times with a partial replacement, my lower back fused and my neck fused. (That is the short story, ;) With all that said, I could easily live a life of being defeated but I refuse to. Three weeks ago my doctor gave me a challenge that if I wanted to age to the best of my ability, considering my spine and joint issues, I would have to make some changes....so I am.
I started out with simple ones, like giving up sugary drinks, letting go of fast food, and such. These were easier to do than I thought. I then began to really consider my diet, why I ate, what I ate, and when. I did this because I knew it wasn't about a diet, it was about a life change. With every little change I could see a small difference, and it feels good.
This week I started out with my biggest hurdle....exercise. I knew that I could only do that in a pool, so I joined one, and began ever so slowly to walk and then start deep water exercise with a float belt. I have surprised myself. Walking without falling is a challenge on land, but in the water I can do this well, I can even RUN, for a short period of time. I can't tell you how important this is because one of my dreams is that I will be able to run on land again without a walker...and I will achieve that dream, despite the surgeries, despite the foot drop, despite the pain.
10 pounds down, one step at a time, and progress has been made. My challenge is a huge one, but I am determined to rise above my disabilities and love my body as much as possible. For today, I am reminded that I can do more than I ever though, it simply takes moving one foot in front of the other and allowing my mind and heart to tell me....Yes...I can.

What is your definition of BEING A CREATIVE?
I had the pleasure of speaking at SpringHill College today to a group of students studying art and culture. Their goal was to pick my brain, along with another artist, as to what our creative process is like. One of the questions I was asked was what do I mean when I say, "I am not merely an artist, I am a creative?" I know my answer, but I am fantastically curious if you consider yourself the same way.....a creative rather than simply an artist. If so, what would your definition of 'being a creative' be? 

Sooooo...I turned 45 this week. No, I am not freaking out to share my age, actually I love and embrace every year, moment, and day that I am gifted. My favorite part though was sharing it with my family whom I love and adore. With every click of the clock I realize just how outrageously loved I am. I can only wish that for each of you, and that you are loved the just as much! (yes those are flowers growing out of my head, it's my Meryl Streep look lol)

Oh....my....word. If this isn't a dose of reality I don't know what is.

Alcohol Ink on Yupo
I am playing with 91% rubbing alcohol dropped into wet acrylic on Yupo paper today. Loving the organic feel to this. What creative endeavors do you have on your platters today? 
#mixedmediatechniques  

Simple Gifts For Kids
I absolutely love finding simple gifts for kids that I know they will love. It takes me back to the days where a rake and pile of pine straw was the best way ever to build forts. This toy caught my eye on the website Haute Nature and it was created by designer Małgosia Wesolowska out of an old tire, plywood, and paint etc. I can imagine if I had this when I was growing up it would have been so much fun. I am on the hunt this year to share ideas like this. Reuse, Reduce, Recylce in our gifts! My kind of gift giving!

http://hautenature.com/malgorzata-wesolowska-retyred-see-saw

Total Rant Before I Implode
I go back to visit FB, to remove access to my private phone numbers, only to get caught up in what I thought was a 'simple' discussion about FB privacy. Within about 4 posts I realize there must be at least a 50 point deficit of IQ from here to there because it was like trying to talk paint off the wall. No debate skills, no manners, just total diarrhea of the mouth from the majority of those posting. My first thought was, this wouldn't happen here. Then I knew, my days there are numbered. I just can't stomach, not only the lack of privacy, but the lack of social skills found there.

Whew, rant over. Now, back to my beautiful stream filled with art, writing, knowledge, intellect, and most of all, people who welcome a different point of view.

Circle of Peace Post
Good Morning! I was thrilled to wake up and see my article about The Circle of Peace I created published on MediaTapper by +James Barraford. Although this circle is not an entirely perfect solution, it has given me and others a wonderful place to simply 'land', enjoy the view and conversation, and take a small break from our busy main streams. Hope you might considering creating a a circle like this of your own if you need the same 'respite.' The discussion about our choice to use social networking for a bit more 'peaceful' reasons has been interesting as well, especially in light of all the changes we see happening so quickly. Such a relevant topic these days.

Art Journal - Letting The Colors Flow
One of the things I love to do on a day when I am 'having to rest' is to sit out by the lake and play around with watercolor washes and ideas. It's quite relaxing, just letting the colors flow without the pressure of getting something finished or 'just right' for a commission and today, with it being Caturday of course, I decided to go with blues and purples. Here is my version of "Blue Cat At Rest." This is only a 5" by 7", I may keep it as is or cut it up, but the process of letting the colors flow along with letting the day flow gently was the main point. Some days it's good just to let go of control and go with the flow.

Good Morning! I need to pick your brains a bit!

In regards to posting Blogs on Google+ do you prefer:

1. To read a short intro and click on a link to visit the blog.
2. To read the entire Blog post within Google+ and visit the blog if you choose.
3. To skip lengthy Blog posts here and only use a Reader outside of G+.

For me, I feel as if I miss some great content if the post is very short with just a link but reading long posts, especially when the stream is whizzing by, is a chore without using a permalink. Just curious as to what YOU prefer.

Mr. Colonel Sir Harry Aloysious Louis Thibadeoux Hey You Cat
Meet our new addition, the cat with one too many names and two indecisive parents, lol! 

My son is fortunate enough to work for Lego and received one of his employee gifts today... a replica of the original duck toy. I must say, I think this one is pretty sweet!

RESHARE:
+Paul Spoerry is a New to Google+ Member, which is an Unofficial group of users that have come together to help make newbies feel welcome. He has complied the most up to date tips and links page list I have seen so far, grouping together many of the posts and list that have circulated, all within this one post. I told him he needed a donate button, ;) That's the spirit I find here at Google+, people helping people. Awesome trait about this network and the users here! Thanks Paul!

Reshared text:
My New to Google+ (1 followed by 100 zeros aka the big one) Getting Started List

A compilation of some of the best Google+ “Getting Started” guides, tools, and tips for users new to Google+.

If you’re new to Google+ and wondering how to get around have no fear, the newest social network on the block is filled with a vibrant user base that is willing to help. A great deal of content has been created and shared among Google+ users. This list by no means captures ALL of that content; it should however, provide a list of resources to help you get going.

How to get help
+Ardith Goodwin has created a group of users who have volunteered to help users connect with existing users of Google+ who are willing to help people new to Google+ should they want/need one-on-one help. The members of this group can be found on the Group/As site here: http://bit.ly/otbAGP. The members of the group will frequently post “New To Google? Let Us Help!” posts letting new users know we’re here if they need assistance.

If you use Chrome as your web browser I suggest grabbing the Circle+ Chrome extension (http://bit.ly/qyCrBP) by +Daniel Treadwell. With this extension enabled you can visit the Unofficial New To Google+? (http://bit.ly/otbAGP) Team page and in one click add all of the members to your Circles.

+Natalie Villalobos, Community Manager for the Google+ project, suggests starting with Early Adopter’s Guide & The Starter Pack by +Ahmed Zeeshan. Both are excellent resources for getting started on Google+ (http://bit.ly/redld9 & http://bit.ly/ok12eg).

Getting Started Guides
• Official Google+ Help Center – Google+’s official help center is a great place to start and always available by hitting the cog in the upper right hand of Google+ and selecting “Google+ Help”. (http://bit.ly/okusRC)

• Google+ Visual Startup Guide v2 by +Saidur Hossain. Available in 31 languages this provides a beautiful slide show style presentation of getting started on Google+. (http://bit.ly/q7zTUq)

• Google+ 101 for beginners by: +Pauline Sweetman is on onsite beginners guide to Google+ (http://bit.ly/nsKqJd)

• Google Plus 101: How to Get Started by +Rana Shahbaz. A simple and straight forward blog post on the basics of Google+. (http://bit.ly/oDJEL8)

• Tips for Newer Users of Google+ by +Robert Scoble. Robert is blogger, author, and former tech evangelist for Microsoft. This is his onsite top tips for new users of Google+. (http://bit.ly/pfbL83)

• Google+ Resources by +Mariva H. Aviram. An extensive collection of links to additional resources for learning more about Google+. Viewable both as a regular page, viewable in Google docs, as well as editable in Google docs if you wish to contribute. (http://bit.ly/qZrSWY)

• Google+ 101 Guide and Google+ 201 Guide by: +Nancy Bain. Visual presentations on SlideShare (http://slidesha.re/r4JV6T & http://slidesha.re/oExiJv)

Detailed Guides and Documentation
• Google+ - A Collaborative Document – One of the first community driven, collaborative documents that emerged from Group+; filled with great information. Viewable in Google docs, as well as editable in Google docs if you wish to contribute.

• Google+ Visual Pro Guide by +Saidur Hossain. A beautiful slide show style presentation of power user Google+ tips and tricks.

• Google+: The Complete Guide by +Ben Parr. Mashable’s guide to using Google+ (http://on.mash.to/ndEJww)

• Finding and Following People on Google+ by +Johnathan Chung – Exhaustive list of external sites for finding users on Google+ (http://bit.ly/pKEsnw)

• 9 Ways to Get a Google+ Vanity URL (and the Google+ one you might already have) by +Paul Spoerry (http://bit.ly/p4E9LK)

• Google+ Search Tour by +Carter Gibson – How to use search to find people, sparks, posts, and more. (http://bit.ly/nIA5nu)


Wikis
• Unofficial Google+ Wiki by +Szabolcs Feczak (http://bit.ly/nLdf0c)

• Getting Started on Google+ by Wired.com (http://bit.ly/qSvBWF)

• G+ How To Wiki – Unofficial web portal (http://bit.ly/oa6L7U)

• GooglePlusTips Wiki by WildTangient.com (http://bit.ly/obi6b7)


Cheatsheets, Tips, and Infographics
• Google+ Cheat Sheets and Tricks v1 by +Simon Laustsen. High level overview of Google+ in visual form and available in multiple languages. (http://bit.ly/pWNIOI)

• Google+ Cheat Sheet v2 by +Simon Laustsen. Second edition overview of Google+ in visual form and available in multiple languages. ( http://bit.ly/omtPpK)

• 6 Steps to Configuring Privacy by ZoneAlarm (http://bit.ly/pl9Z8U)

• 40 Google+ Tips and Tricks for Power Users by PCWorld (http://bit.ly/oBHvLe)

• Google+ Resources: Guides/Tips/Tutorials by +Joe Sabado. Organized into categories like General Use, use for Higher Education, Tips, Tools, & Accessibility (http://bit.ly/pVSWvO)

• Google+ Tips & Shortcuts by +Andrew Shotland of localseoguide.com (http://bit.ly/nAUHpN)

• Google+ Tutorials by +Anson Alexander (http://bit.ly/mPuRiZ)


Privacy on Plus
• Data Liberation Front – Google’s in-house data liberation team in charge of allowing you to export your data from Google services, including Google+. (http://bit.ly/od14vM)

• How to: Download Your Google+ Data by +Paul Spoerry – Walkthrough on downloading your Google+ data (http://bit.ly/r6fpj5)

• 21 Google+ Privacy Tips: The Ultimate Guide by +Craig Kanalley (http://huff.to/o3T49x)

• 6 Steps to Configuring Privacy (Infographic) by ZoneAlarm (http://bit.ly/pl9Z8U)

Circle Management
• The Circles: Dividing, Nesting and Prioritizing (available in multiple languages) by +Ahmed Zeeshan (http://bit.ly/qNg8sA)

• How to Manage Your Google+ Circles Without Going Crazy by G+ Insiders Guide (http://bit.ly/nhYsb5)

• Circle reordering (includes video) by +Brett van Zuiden (http://bit.ly/ol765y)

• How to Sort and Manager Circles by +Kelly Clay via Lockergnome.com (http://bit.ly/o72mBb)


Hangouts
• 6 Invaluable Tips to Help you Hangout Successfully by +Carter Gibson (http://bit.ly/pxur4X)

• Where to Hangout at Google+ - A directory of current and future Google+ Hangouts (http://bit.ly/oLZhzk)

Link for this post: http://bit.ly/rjNwxZ
Edit: I just noticed +Johnathan Chung has a very similar list! Here's his: http://bit.ly/ruW0D3

Earlier this afternoon I had the opportunity to have a hangout with Natalie Villalobos about the effort and purpose of my "New to Google+? Let us help!" group. I have shared some of our discussion with my group members but I want to hear from you about this one question.

What do you think Google+ can do to help a new user have a successful first visit here?

Consider your first experience as well as those you have invited who didn't choose to remain. Although Google+ gets lots of feedback I am finding that comments in the stream shared within our circles are the best indicator of what we experience on a daily basis. What are your thoughts about this? (If you reshare please disable comments so they can be shared here.) Thanks....your POV is important!

Happy Earth Day 2012
It seems the older I get the more I appreciate the magnitude of how beautiful a life I have here on this planet we share. So, I took some time this morning in gratitude, for Earth's sustenance, for its protection, for its giving of life. May I strive to be a good steward with every breathe and never take her for granted. That is my prayer today. (My father gave me this sphere, it is called "Creation.")
#glass #Earthday

Art Journal Love<!
My latest page about dreams it seems. I so love altering books to practice my ,mixed media ideas, especially when they count as therapy as well.
 http://ardithsart.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-conundrum-of-dreaming-art-journal.html
#artjournal  

Wow.....I find words difficult to express my reaction to this other than awe...Here is some background for all of you though. 

Marina Abramovic and Ulay started an intense love story in the 70s, performing art out of the van they lived in. When they felt the relationship had run its course, they decided to walk the Great Wall of China, each from one end, meeting for one last big hug in the middle and never seeing each other again.

At her 2010 MoMa retrospective Marina performed ‘The Artist Is Present’ as part of the show, where she shared a minute of silence with each stranger who sat in front of her. Ulay arrived without her knowing and this is what happened.
~Zen Garage~

Parenting Networks on Google+ Circle
Last week I spent hours going through search to locate pages and people that actively share posts/resources about kids, for kids, and for parents of kids. With millions of users here I thought it would be easy, but it wasn't. I did manage to come up with about 50 people/pages/organizations that were specifically found to promote kid play and family fun, but I haven't actively engaged yet with all of them. If you are a parent here on Google+ with babies to teens and wish to connect with parenting resources here on Google+ this circle might be for you. If you are a parent/page/organization that is not in this circle but shares posts that promote creativity in kids, family fun, and education then let me know so I can add you. I would love to see Google+ become a hub of parenting/kid connections here on Google+. (For those of you who personally responded in my post the other day, I have a separate circle for parents in my personal network and added you to that.)

#homeschooling #parents #educationalresources #kids #momblogs

Merry Christmas to all my wonderful new friends in the Googlesphere! May you and yours feel blessed, be blessed, and carry that with you into 2012!

What is the first thing that you thought of when you saw this image "Land of Psychedelic Illuminations," created by artist Brian Exton? Where you hooked instantly or was it painful to see because the colors are so intense? As an artist, I am drawn to this type of color more than any other, but I haven't exactly figured out why. In fact, I have a hard time using a neutral palette because it simply isn't something my heart connects with or becomes stimulated by. I also realize I am not the norm, some love intense color and some hate it. What is your take on why you are drawn to intense color or to more neutral tones? Is it the hard wired brain, environmental influences, personality traits, or a mixture of all?

http://www.picturerealm.co.uk/gall20.html

This is the best Halloween treat ever! Nola, Cafe' Du Monde, wild and crazy folks, and rats with wings. Gosh I love this town!

New To Google+? Let Us Help

The rapid moving stream can be annoying for all of us and there are several extensions you can use to slow it down. But, if you see a post that is rather long, that you really want to read now without interruption, simply click on the timestamp next to the persons name who posted it and it will open in a new window. You can also create a 'me' circle and share the post with that circle so you can come back to it for later viewing.

One Super Duper Super Hero Cake
I so love StumbleUpon, Pinterest, and Blog Hoping, but it is so frustrating to come across a great image or idea but not be able to contact the original source of said image or idea. This awesome cake is one of those images. I found it on Pinterest and on seven different blogs, but for the life of me can't find who originally created this. I would love, love, love to have this done for my son's birthday next year, but would prefer to find the genius behind the cake. Any ideas on how to track back the original source on an image when Google Image Search doesn't quite work?

Lawd have mercy I am finished! 
"Reflections In Creation" 20" by 30" watercolor. Finally finished this piece and what a journey it was. Had I had a 'normal back,' there would have been a few things I would have done differently but considering what my challenges were the past few weeks, I am over the moon pleased with it. You can view a few in progress pics if you click through to my blog to see how I painted it.  http://ardithsart.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-journey-of-painting-glass.html
http://ardithgoodwin.com/watercolors/

#watercolorpainting   #paintingglassinwatercolor  

"Glass Menagerie" watercolor on paper
My first attempt at painting glass many moons ago. Just wanted to throw some color in the stream today! Happy Sunday friends! 

Motivational Quote of My Day
Be fit for more than the thing you are now doing. Let everyone know that you have a reserve in yourself; that you have more power than you are now using. If you are not too large for the place you occupy, you are too small for it. -James A. Garfield

Every now and then a quote will connect with me right in the heart...to remind me that I am on the right path. This one did just that this morning. I am getting my gumption up to go out and make some waves today, because yes, I know I am more powerful than I believe. Wrapping this one up and taking it with me....but not before I share it with you.

(wish I knew who to credit for the image, sigh....)

Wow, I am having one of those days where Social Network Fatigue is setting in thanks to the changes on "The Network I Shall Not Name." Think I will disconnect for a while and walk back in to real life where the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and my hubs will take me for a canoe ride. (You peeps stay blessed today!)

Thank you +Vince Dang for sharing this in your stream!

Having a deaf family member makes this video really something that is close to my heart. If you have seen it, great! If not, and you know someone who is deaf, please consider sharing it with them. I listen to it with the sound off and also on, just to relate a bit better with my Uncle. I am grateful technology has improved so much so that the hearing impaired can enjoy music as well!

Done, Done, Done! Miniature Abstract Collage Squares
Despite having the horrid crud this week, my hubs stepped up to the plate and helped me finish constructing these miniature abstract squares. Each little painting is only one to two inches set onto a 4 inch by 4 inch canvas. I need to name these the "Under The Bed" series because they are made up entirely of paintings that I had under my bed and was ready to discard. I am pleased with the process of cutting them up, it was a bit cathartic and taught me that even though I may consider a painting not marketable, as long as there is bold color, line, or texture, there is always the potential for a work of art!
Here is a link to their album where there are close up shots.
https://plus.google.com/photos/108112557629934458248/albums/5734305189012069905

Have you read a great book lately? Has your kids? Love NPR's book promo poster, it makes me smile....big smiles!

New to Google+? This Might Help! BE CAUTIOUS WHEN USING THE "NOTIFY ABOUT THIS POST" OPTION

There has been a lot of frustration by many users on Google+ over the "Notify About This Post" option when posting to public or your circles and I wanted to help clarify what that actually does for the new users to Google+. When you share a post, you choose which circles to share it with. You can also click on the blue contact buttons and be given an additional option, besides simply sharing it with your circles or in your public stream, to "Notify About This Post". If you choose to check this box, then you are sending a private notification to EVERYONE in that circle. If you are a member of a group and want to make sure they see your post for group information, this works great. If you are simply checking that box randomly and sending a notification to everyone along with it being a public or limited post, you are risking doing two things:

1. Sending a post that may be perceived as SPAM
2. Taking the risk of being blocked by some.

Google+ gives us this option to use as we wish. Just be aware that to many, especially those with high follower counts, the use of this option is one way you could get blocked if you use it each time or if you send them any type of product advertisements because it becomes noise.


Thank you Abdul Malik for the pic!

Trying out the new photo features and sharing an album. Hmmmmm......

Pitch A Fit, Be Human, Move On
Sometimes I get so busy trying to be calm and keep it together that I forget the catharsis of actually losing it every now and then. Just because it's been one of those days....weeks....months and the thought of seeing another Keep Calm poster makes me want to hurl. Just because I needed to vent today and move on, these are the words I am ok with embracing today.

Living with chronic pain will grow hairs on your chest. I say that in jest because my husband always says to the kids, when they are facing difficult challenges, that those challenges will grow hair on their chests. If that's the case I should look like a monkey of some sort. Humor is one of the best ways I cope with chronic pain, and I am grateful that have it in my life. Many of you see my posts about my art and about helping newbies find a home here, but peering into the window of my daily life is not something I share as much. I am just as passionate about being an advocate for those who struggle with pain and illness on a daily basis as I am for the others though, and want to simply share that here in case it resonates with some.

You see, behind the words and the face staring back at you is someone who has lived through 24 surgeries in my 43 years, one resulting in a spinal chord injury called Arachnoiditis. No, I wasn't bitten by a spider, but I did have a nurse ask me once if that was the case. I have had both ankles rebuilt, 9 knee surgeries, 5 lumbar surgeries with a fusion and just had my neck fused, and that is just the orthopedic ones. They have all been a challenge to say the least but I still believe I am an ordinary person living an extraordinary life. When I first joined Google+ I wasn't sure sharing this type of content would be embraced here. That is until I met +M Monica. She too struggles with chronic illness and has inspired me to be bold enough to share a more personal struggle with you. Her courage is contagious.

Many of you post a lot of content here and it intrigues me. What I do wonder though, for those willing to share a bit more about who they are, is what part of your world are you reluctant to share here? What part of your world do you fear would not be embraced? My medical journey is mine....what is yours?
.

Bahahahhahhaha, I hope when I am their age I have this much spunk! Great smile to end the day with!

New to Google+? This Might Help! "YOU ARE NOT DOING IT WRONG" ISSUES

Every day I get emails from newbies here asking me questions that they were reluctant to ask within their circles for fear of "Doing It Wrong." I realize that many of us have been here for several months, are familiar with seeing things posted in a certain way, and expect people to behave "as we think they should." Please know, THIS IS YOUR GOOGLE+ as much as it is mine. Here are a few tips to help you feel more comfortable posting and sharing, and for those of us that have been here a while, please remember there are many new people here that are using this network for the first time and have no clue what or how others expect them to behave. Let's help them feel welcome while showing them the ropes!

(As always, these are not rules, just simple suggestions that may or may not apply to your experience)

1. Be yourself and share what you choose to. Yes, many of us LOVE original content, but don't feel as if you need to write a Pulitzer with every post. (Personally, I love seeing baby pics and reading recipes just as much as I love reading science or tech articles, but that's just me.)
2. Don't feel as if you need to click that box to "notify about this post" every time you post something. You can, but some folks find that intrusive if they receive multiple notifications from you only to find you posted it publicly.
3. Don't freak out if strangers follow you. Google+ doesn't work like FB. If you don't want to interact with strangers here you don't have to. Simply post only to your circles and you control your info. (BUT, if you share a post in your circles and don't want it shared by your friends, make sure you LOCK your post from being shared.)
4. Start you own "Share as you Like" circles. I have done this, specifically for people to feel safe in posting however they choose and it's one of my most favorite circles. This way, you never have to feel you are doing it wrong and your friends don't either.
5. Read up on some tip sheets. Yes, knowing what tips work well here is important even if you choose to react differently. There are TONS floating around, and if you need some links just ask.
6. Use the MUTE BUTTON! No one will like everything each of us posts all of the time, but I would never call someone else out for posting something. It is their post. I can choose to mute the post, uncircle the person if I don't care for what they are posting, block the person if I find it offensive, or report the person if needed. . It is OK to uncircle people here and it is not viewed the same way as unfriending over on FB by many.
7. Actively fight spammers and trolls and keep Google+ free of that!

New Followers.....Meet Found Baby!
Have you ever come across an object and realized it just might have been your destiny to find it? Found Baby was like that for me. Last year, as I was walking on our 42 acres in the woods, next to an abandoned still, and found a doll half buried, face down. When I pulled her from the dirt, I realized she was no ordinary doll. She was strange looking, disfigured, and 50 years old. I began photographing her at first, because her face was drawn to the lens, and then I realized from the reaction of people she had a greater story to tell. Found Baby was meant to be found and I was meant to tell her story. When you see her images, at first you might see an ordinary doll. I ask that you look past that. Give her story, and the one of her friends, a chance to be told. It just might make you reconsider your concept of beauty.

The Incredible Journey of Found Baby is a photographic, fictional narrative from the view point of this doll and the two others I found. The story of how she was found is true. Her story from there is one I have created based on my photography and how the world has reacted to seeing this doll and her friends. My hopes are that as I write about her journey, her story of courage, triumph, and survival, will resonate with people/ She is especially fond of those who have ever felt ugly, been abused, are disfigured, or burned. Her story is a tragic but beautiful one. I wanted to share her here on Google+ because she is my way of showing the world there is a different side to beauty, one that is internal, and we can all embrace that. She also stands as an advocate for children who have been abused. Will you take this journey with her, follow as it evolves, and consider sharing it with someone you might feel that Found Baby can root for?

She is a work in progress, as we all are. But I feel her work....is beautiful. You can follow her story on her blog here: www.foundbaby.net