I've been using backing tracks mainly, it's nice to see the chords change visually when trying to follow the changes, but also just playing favourite music and filling in between the vocals is fun too.Dean, are noodling on electric or acoustic? Are you using a backing track or did you make your own?
I do have a looper, a Digitech Trio+ which also creates drum and bass tracks based on what chords or bass-line you 'teach' it; it's a great bit of kit and I mean to try writing songs with it too.
I have been practicing on a Yamaha Silent guitar with a set of electric strings on it, it gives an acoustic sound with the ability to bend notes like an electric. A lot of fun!