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

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

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

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!

Happy Saturday and Happy #Caturday  to my Googlesphere! 

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.

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

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

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  

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.

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!

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  

Lol so true!

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!

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. 

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" 

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  

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  

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! 

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!

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! 

Rarely does it happen that my brother and two sisters are together at the same time for us to get a picture made so tonight, this was a great treat for us. We celebrated Christmas together with the family and had a grand time, and the evening leaves me realizing just how outrageously loved I am by my family. #blessedandsmiling  

RESHARE:
I'm headed to bed with the vision of this little dude in my head. Rock on little man, rock on!

Reshared text:
Just rock and roll ♥

slavesoul.com

Plus One Collection 2012 for Charity 
One of the things I love and adore about our Google+ community is the willingness from our members to collaboratively use our talents to serve others and give back. The Plus One Collection is a book created from images submitted by Google+ photographers and the sales of the book go towards helping charity. +Ivan Makarov is the brainchild of this project and has worked so hard organizing it. You can learn more about the Plus One Collection by watching this video: http://youtu.be/Q3HNSuUkSXI or by visiting the website: http://plusonecollection.com/
You can also read and follow Ivan's thread here on Google+: http://bit.ly/UoM1R4

What I also love about this project is that photographers at any level can submit a photo. I am purely an amateur photographer who just loves to capture a unique image of life through the lens. My submission, Honor Creation, is a tribute to the love I have for our planet and the fragility that comes with her protection. I have no clue if I will be selected or not, but for me, that is not the point. The point is that I can participate, I can give to this cause to help charity, and most importantly I can join with my fellow Google+ members to give back to a world in need. That is my kind of project. 

It isn't too late to submit your own photo as the deadline is January 16, 11:59pm California time.

#plusonecollection2012  

"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! 

RESHARE:
I adore this image by Louise Williams, "Blind Faith" graphite and acrylic.

Reshared text:
Blind Faith by Louise Williams Graphite with Acrylic
When I saw this image in a mixed media group on FB I was stopped cold in my tracks. Rarely will an image stir emotion, immediate emotion in me but "Blind Faith" by Louise Williams did just that. On her FB page, she shares the steps she made to create this masterpiece, by combining layers of graphite with acrylics. I so thought all of you would want to see it as well. I think the graphite lends to the mood of this piece with its shadows and contrast. I could really look at this all day and am a big fan of Louise's work. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Louise-Williams-Heartistry/286297614758552?ref=hl

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!

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, ;)

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!

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

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. 

My First Still Life
I was fortunate to be spending a few days at the Gulf with two artist friends and finally decided to take the bold step of painting my first still life. I usually paint from a photograph and because I am self taught haven't pushed myself into still life painting despite painting tons. Have to admit....I loved it. I am still not quite finished with this yet but the day is closing so I am letting it rest. We also tried Absinthe for the first time to really get into the historical painting groove and that was a hoot in itself. Great few days just chilling and feeling blessed.

Ole Kirk's House Lego
Each Christmas my son receives a Lego kit in the mail from Lego and this year it was Ole Kirk's House. I never get tired of seeing these wonderful creations come to life! 

For The Love Of Google+
Just for the record....all you people in my Googlesphere create the most hilarious, intellectual, artistic, and beautiful content of any social network I use.....THANK YOU for doing so! ( AND DONT FORGET TO SET YOUR CLOCKS FORWARD FRIENDS!)

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

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!

Can you tell? Can you tell my day has been filled with life, creativity, color, and love? Yes! Breathing deeply, soaking it all in and slinging paint, my idea of blissful serenity! Hope your day was filled with tons of contentment as well!

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.

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  

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? 

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

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 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!

I love my dad. Today, I spent most of the day watching the Alabama Football game with him, cringing when he disagreed with a call and laughing at him hoop and holler. During half time, a commercial came on about 9/11 and I silently watched his whole demeanor change. You see, he holds this event sacred, because his love of country and of sacrifice runs deep. What occurred to me, but I didn't share with him, was the realization that many don't have this opportunity anymore. They can't watch a game with their dad, talk to him, or relish at his passion for football because so many dads were lost that day. I am the lucky one, and though I realize I won't always have my dad to share football days with, I am grateful that today I do. This is one of my favorite pics of him, with his grandson. It shows his strength and mirrors that with his boyish love for life. Tonight I will spend time saying prayers of gratitude, and prayers of peace for those who miss their dads tonight.

This is how I spent my afternoon, getting my new bridge put in! Can't get over the relief of not being embarrassed to open my mouth and smile. When the swelling goes down I will post a pic of my new smile tomorrow. 

Oddest fortune I have ever gotten....

Yodaman Eyes a Squirrel
Skylights in our roof are the perfect way to tease the devil out of my cat....smiles the rodent on the roof, lolol
#caturday

RESHARE:
And the artist and geek in me just laughed out loud at this one! 

Reshared text:
I love art.

*Acrylic Abstract Painting* 
In an abstract from of mind tonight. "Fragments" acrylic on canvas, is a piece that I labored over between ideas, thoughts, concepts, and motivation. If there ever was a fragmented piece to match my psyche today, this is it. 
#abstractarteveryday   #abstractart  

Lavender Infused Blueberry Pink Lemonade
With Memorial Day tomorrow and summer upon us finding a cool, refreshing drink can make the difference in a hot day and a spectacular, grand day....despite the heat. For my parents 50th Anniversary Party I made Lavender Infused Blueberry Pink Lemonade and topped it off with champagne. The lavender infused simple syrup made this lemonade way beyond anything expected and it was a big hit. If you are on the hunt for a great punch recipe this summer, look no further, this one is delicious! You can read the details about it on my website, and if you prefer not to have a pink drink you can even change the color to purple as well! Stay cool tomorrow friends! http://www.ardithgoodwin.com/lavender-infused-blueberry-pink-lemonade-recipe

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!

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!)

Merry Christmas to all of you friends! I am chilling out at the beach with the family getting my sketch on this morning. Blessed with much love and beautiful weather and sending you all (((((((big hugs)))))))!

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, ;)

Have my blue crab about 95% finished and he and my fish will ship off to Pennsylvania this week to live in a beach house on the New Jersery Shore. Creating these collages are some of my most fun, totally out of magazine scraps, which makes me feel like I am not only creating art, but recycling as well, ;)

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.

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.

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

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.

I am not a professional photographer but I do love to take photos and every once in a while the timing, lighting, and opportunity all fall at the perfect moment and I end up with a shot like this. We were in a church rehearsing for my step-daughters wedding. The walls were a creamy white and the stained glass was mostly yellow. As the light flooded through the windows, and she turned to look at me with a bit of curiosity, I snapped the photo. One of the prettiest child shots I have ever captured.

This is where I wish I was.....with a cold one, :) "Shores of Serenity" 20" by 20" mixed media collage on board. This one is part of my show that launches tomorrow, mixed media works inspired by living along the Gulf Coast of Alabama. Makes me miss the ocean so much! 

Are you a trash picker? I adore my trash picking husband! He has built a house out of items recovered from the trash, and every now and then he finds an extra special something that he knows I will be over the moon about. Today was one of those days as he brought home this rusted old tool box. This type of gift scores more points for me than flowers or jewelry, but I am weird like that. #standsonheadwithglee  

RESHARE:
The geek in me just had to share this one! Happy New Year dear friends! I do hope we are all here tomorrow, because friends, this place just wouldn't be the same without YOU....be safe tonight! 

Reshared text:

Awesome Cheesy Family Christmas Pic
We all have them, those holiday pics of the family. Some are in front of the trees with the Christmas sweaters proudly hanging off the reluctant shoulders of most of the family....except the mom and Aunt Gerty types. Others are the pics of the "unknowing swollen belly asleep after lunch" shots that most of those folks never know exist as we get a great chuckle out of their unfortunate slumbering. And then...well then there are these, like mine. A crazy family, madly in love with one another, that simply wants to poke a little fun at the "Let's all wear white shirts and khaki pants and take a pic on the beach" pics. So, from my fruitcake fabulous family to all of you, I do send you much love, much gratitude for engaging with me this year, and ever so giant ((((((((big hugs!))))))) for a great New Year! 

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)

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! 

My Marie Louise was in rare form this morning as she decided to make biscuits on my face. Luckily I had my camera close by. Good #caturday morning to all of you!

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)

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..

Just Be
Do you ever get exhausted trying to do it all, be it all, and get it all done? I said to heck with that today and just breathed...did exactly what I wanted to do, and it was lovely. Guess what, the world didn't end, :) 
Take back your moments friends! 
http://ardithsart.blogspot.com/2013/01/just-be.html

It's #caturday  and Yodaman is on his favorite perch trying his best to figure out a way to catch the illusive "mouse" that dances all over my computer screen. Happy Saturday folks! 

RESHARE:
I would so love to play in this amazing crocheted playground. Holy Cow Moly! 

Reshared text:
Amazing crocheted playground
Wow, in Japan artist Toshiko Horiuchi-MacAdam has created this amazing playground for children out of textiles. It is beautiful. Imagine how much fun you would have playing in the rainbow of swings, cushions and pockets. Of course it really comes alive when the children are playing in it.

Has anyone been to the playground in Japan?

Its at the Hakone Open Air Museum in Hakone, Japan.

You can find more info here: http://www.mymodernmet.com/profiles/blogs/vibrantly-colored-crocheted-playground

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

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

Acrylic Floral Series of Paintings
I have had the most fun working on these acrylic florals and tinkering with the "drip" effect. I only had three musts for these since they were my first attempts at it. They must be wildly colorful, I must paint loose and let the water flow, and I must not put too much emphasis on getting it right instead of allowing myself to experience the technique by using my fingers. Overall, I totally am pleased with the outcome and feel I met my goals. Now, I plan on doing some smaller ones since these are each 2 feet by 2 feet and I am going to try this drip technique with watercolor on paper instead of acrylic on canvas.

Viviane over at the Chocolate Chilli Mango Website shares here recipes for some delicious food and this little jewel of a dessert caught my eye, (Protein) Cherry Bombs! For one thing, they are low in sugar and another they are high in protein, so if I am going to go for a sweet treat, especially one that won't spike my blood sugar much, these yummy looking bombs may be just the thing to make and try. I have never used Whey or Coconut Sugar in a recipe as well, so this concoction will hold many firsts. Can't wait to try these for myself.
You can find the recipe here:
http://chocolatechillimango.com/2011/12/11/ch-ch-ch-ch-cherry-bombs-protein/

Paper Pinwheel Ornament
I am totally into making hand made ornaments during Christmas time and this one, which I saw on the How About Orange Website is gorgeous, but very simple....which is what I love about it. Kids could do these as well as artist who choose to create them with hand painted papers. I also considered writing certain special events that occurred during the year on them and making one each year to remember them by. Using text papers or ones with a little bling would be pretty swell too. If you are an ornament fiend like me, you will want to check out the step by step instructions. Way cool, way simple, and lovely.


http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2010/12/diy-striped-paper-ornament.html

Day 269 is all about best friends and Day 119 is all about love. Guess there is a common theme running through my head even over the span of months. I take that as a good thing. Happy Sunday to all of you friends!

Watercolor Travel Palette
It's a great day to spend it with artists slinging paint and my Watercolor Art Journal Class along with my Watercolor Sketchbook class starts today. Rather than spend big bucks on fancy travel pans, I opted for a $5 bobbin case and my own tube paints. Looking forward to the added variety in my color palette as this little case is only about 5" by 4" and for teaching my students a few cost shaving shortcuts when I can. Happy Tuesday to all of you this morning! http://ardithsart.blogspot.com/2013/04/watercolor-travel-palette.html
#watercolor   #sketchbook  

The Joy of Painting Glass in Watercolor 
I have a love/hate relationship with painting glass in watercolor. The part of my brain that loves systems, order, and patterns loves painting glass. The part of my brain that is a free spirit, loves to make loose, intuitive marks, hates it. Such a fun dynamic for mood I would say. This piece, which is about half way finished, has so many more glazes to go I cringe to think about it, but I am pleased with how it is progressing. You can view my WIP pics if you click through to my blog. http://ardithsart.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-journey-of-painting-glass.html
#watercolorpainting   #painting   #watercolor  

Visiting and old friend!
Back in 2003 when I was teaching myself to paint this was one of the first glass paintings I attempted. I have since given it to a dear friend and haven't seen it in several years so it was nice to walk in her kitchen and see the colors and brilliance of light still glow against the black walls and frame. Makes me smile to know it is well loved. "Glass Menagerie, 8" by 10"" 

I need a glass of wine now, :) Mixed media 20" by 20" on board.   Thought some of you might need a color and pattern explosion this evening. The layers were a journey  in themselves .

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? 

Happy Caturday
This is J. Alfred who just so happens to have a thing for Cousin Nancy, ;) 

I have no clue who made the pic but it cracks me up. That little girl looks distraught for sure!

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

Catturlion By Moonlight
Oh, I have missed my watercolors. For the past few days I have been tinkering with blobs, animal totems, and text in my art journals so this evening I combined all three. This was a riot of fun to paint and has gotten my juices flowing to do some more intense beachfront scenes. Catturlion may need a poem too....hmmm.....
#watercolorpainting   #illustrationart  

Maurice Sendak Quote
This may have gotten shared a lot today but it put a much needed smile on my face that I had to share it as well. If only we each had a kid love our work enough to eat it, lol!

Painting With Acrylic
I go through spurts as a painter because my attention span just won't settle down with one technique or style and lately I have been doing florals for the first time painted with acrylic. I intentionally force the process to stay loose so I play through drips or scrapes or even saran wrap as a blotter just for fun. This one I am pleased with. The textures turned out like I had hoped and I am ok with the darks and lights. I would like to evolve the next piece to show more looseness in the flowers and more contrast with the lights, but that will come. Being self taught has its freedoms for sure.
"Our Time, Your Beauty" 9" by 12" acrylic on canvas

(I detest this black box....)

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.

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/

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/

25 min sketch - Grouping of Three
It is really hard to photograph such a linear image with my phone but this comes close enough. Had a great time sketching these three little guys for a study in a larger piece. Not sure of their purpose, but the more I look at them, the more their unusual characters seem to appeal to me. Graphite, Neocolor II's, Derwent Inktense, and Micron Pen. #sketchbook   #watercolorsketch  #sketches

Such few words, but many prayers. #prayersforboston