Social media is consuming me... we?  Me for sure. Thank Goodness for Instagram! 
(I say with a smirk) 
I'm grateful my www posts for me, it's allowed me to have  a following on twitter - I do not have a clue how to use it and and have decided I better not learn.  I have enough going on and drawing too! 

I'd rather be creating than watching someone else create. Don't think I'm not 'led down the PIN path' of temptation too many times, to not know what I am talking about. 10 minutes turns into 20 in a heartbeat... a cartoon that should have taken me a day - has taken me 3 - like this one from start to publish and I did not have far to drive.
I was distracted. By FB, twitter and Instagram. I like the latter. Instagram 
a 'visual FB' - which is what I prefer and I learn how to use the iPad too. Bonus.
While we play on the computer or looking down at your screen what is happening all around us? It's not only bad for social skills but it is a dangerous distraction as well, driving and texting FB on the phone!?  I recently read Fb will be adding a dislike button, intended to show empathy -some serious concern suggests it will do the opposite with some thinking 'it is funny', or wanting to get a reaction - will go too far,  much like road rage. 
I've already seen displays of ugly on FB - I don't think they need help. 

My biggest distraction some days is wanting to fit in - to be normal and that's not happening. 
Oh, we 'fit in' today.. Norm and I, we decided to check out IKEA.. guess what happened?
We got lost. A couple of times.  (I'm not sure anyone other than IKEA visitors will understand what I'm talking about.)
If you want to know if your marriage can survive - go to IKEA.  lol
I do find it - inspiring! They have pretty creative stuff but it's all stuff. 
Furniture, Norm makes ours... which means: I wait 10 years- but it's good stuff...  lol!
Its been a long day, he cracked me up a couple of time like when he asked me 'if we needed an 'allen key' for the salad table - it was do it yourself.'  ;) Funny Guy.

He was not laughing at the Dr.s Office  earlier in the day, but we both came away feeling -
...  optimistic' ?   Better than I had, than after other visits.
She sure was upfront and direct. It looked like an interesting clinic, it had to do with 
the elderly.  As I think of the tests ahead I'm off to bed.
   
Tomorrow it's back to NORMAL -said with a smile crossing my face - painting & cartooning!  Check out my first few instagram images Georgia.Toons

Have Faith
​<><  xox

Positive Vibes & prayers are always appreciated.
A day of testing ahead... pun intended. 

A Poem:

No, I don't care that you 'once were there... 
3 blocks over that way there.'
Yes, I have stuff on my mind.

No, I don't care between coffin or Mayor...
Yes, I have stuff on my mind.

No, I don't care.
Yes, I have stuff on my mind.


​
Have Faith
<>< xox

I'm not sure why.. but every time we're in Walmart *with poppy in her vest - employees feel it is their job to question me.  Here is the thing (and I get it that they do not understand) I go just to get out,  to get a break, to think, buy my birds peanuts & I can only buy what I can carry (Norm loves it) and every time they talk to me - they force me to respond (or I feel rude- must get over that) and it triggers my face and I am in pain - and stressed - "here we go" and  my simple outing to Walmart turns into a reminder of all thats going wrong with this face. 
I know when I cry - I'm not crying over Walmart (please)  I am crying because of this illness that is very difficult to deal with socially, mentally & physically. ONCE someone starts to speak to me and they witness the side of my face and neck pulling- they usually shut up.
Too late.  I was assured by the store manager: employees wold be spoken to and reminded not to address a service dog- clearly he did not get to all of them..  rather than cry I came home and drew.

A simple little toon that I will be walking over - hopefully, later today.
2 -one for the mens staff/change room and one for the women (if they have that?)
I threw in the treat them like everyone else - 'ignore them' - for a giggle
I am after all a cartoonist.
I have decided to make little cutouts of this and have the 'Walmart space' left blank..
I was in another store on the weekend and the woman said:
"Oh yes, service dogs are permitted but YOU MUST carry them.."   lol
Oh my Gosh, I couldn't even respond! Really? What if it was a Lab? 

* I will again share - Poppy is very well behaved and trained, everywhere we go = people come right up to me - especially ones with the same breed and comment on her behaviour,
don't kid yourself - if you come here - she barks!  It is the pack mentality then that takes over.  We walked past a woman (inches away) and her dog never stopped - Poppy just strolled right past! So proud of my little Poppy. - As for the not barking - how did I train her? I think she just knows.  I look forward to our next library visit this week! 

I am not angry with anyone at walmart- how could they understand?
Clearly there is an issue for people with service dogs.  This, I hope is a start to education.
I will NEVER again explain what is wrong with me to any employee at any store.
I won't even speak I'll have these little cards and on the back will say: if it's a problem, I suggest you get your store superior/contact number for head office
They can write it right the back!  Poppy power! ( TY Jo- lol)

The journey continues..  ;)
Teach only love... change hearts and minds one toon at a time.
Tomorrow an anti social media toon - lol - that being said:
I have a new account on instagram:  georgia.toons   check it out! ;)

Have faith
​<>< xox

Its true - you learn something new everyday - without little effort - if you allow.
Sadly, not all of what we learn is good news... during my idea for this cartoon -let's dispel 'once and for all 'cartoon- at least in my mind-  I learned of another button killing kids.
Lithium buttons and it's a terrible way to die.
If not the choking then what the battery can do to a child's inside is horrifying. Watch the simple video that shows us. I did not occur to me.  I Imagine part of the problem is a little one not being able to vocalize they had swallowed a battery.
So much so Health Canada did have a warning about them and possible death, still they are everywhere. Did you know? Please be honest.

I would like to point out and ask all of you to think about:
How much has the Current Canadian government (OR any for that matter) spent on Educating  the public about Lithium batteries and deadly consequences with children ***Especially -compared to what they have in fact spent smearing medical Cannabis?
Hmmmmmm?  If I had to guess I would say TOO MUCH on one and
       NOT enough on the one that matters!
"Worried about the children" ...please, it's just another excuse they use for their own benefit to manipulate us until they can use something for theirs best interest $$$.
If I a wrong this would be the perfect example to prove me wrong.  Go ahead.


When I started to draw about buttons- the kind we wear and are everywhere- I had no idea about batteries, what they did and HOW common it is.
Battery buttons will never be banned or the other kind.  It is ALL about EDUCATION.  
​As with cannabis - as with EVERYTHING.
Spending money and resources on educating our young should be our priority - always. 

I am so TIRED of the bullshit represented by Rona Ambrose and Stephen Harper and the damage they have done to this country- If you are not - you are not paying attention. 
I don't know 'who' will make it better but I am voting for Justin Treadeau.
I AM voting. IF you don't please don't speak to me of such issues.
Bullshit 'voting does not matter'- get out there & make it matter - if you can vote and don't then you are part of the problem.  
There are people around the world that would kill and DO for such an opportunity.

Today - PLEASE, educate ONE person who has little ones on the true dangers of button battery cells!  

Have Faith
<>< 
xox

It's the weekend and we have a to do list that must get done.
I am an early bird! I try to keep quiet on the weekends so Norm can sleep in but he usually follows around 8:00 a.m.,  & before 9 this morning I had 'us' crafting! lol  
I have an old kitchen table and chairs, at least 3 families before me have owned it - I will have a harvest table of my dreams - as soon as Norm gets around to building it.  ;)  
In his spare time.  There is no way we are paying $100's when I know eventually... the one we have will be beautiful and made with TLC  in the meantime - we have a table and chairs that frighten some. Mostly me. 
The seats - I couldn't take anymore - I had an idea- We covered 4 chairs & handmade TWO  * one 12' long table runners for ThanksGiving for $20!  They turned out terrific if we do say so ourselves! Have a  peek below. 
Again, I make it look soon easy - I do have private contractor by my side the entire way - hee hee hee...  he does al the hard stuff. I paint, take photos & make coffee.
Thanks to Norm for his assistance on this project.

Norm and I also visited the  "thrift store"  I found a few tiny projects I thought would be fun to show you some 'before and after creations'!  Amazing what a bit of paint can do & something old is new again! Be watching the blog for them.  I might even give one away - to brighten someones day! 

A few other things on my mind.. while I create...
`I saw an old friend today I had not seen in about 15- 20 years.. he gave me the best hug ;) 
How neat. 
`I have 2 accounts on FB and I decided to delete the the other the other morning, it's more work, more messages and more time stealing..   I decided - enough - after I posted on my sons page to wish him a happy birthday, I would delete the page.  
Not realizing the one post vanished.  ;( .
 I was glad I wished him a happy Birthday on my Georgia Toons page! Whew! 
Sure enough I am reminded I have no feed...  I out of curiosity logged in since deleting the page and there it was. Not deleted. Still there.
​Waiting.
What to do .. what to do....

I'll decide another day... it's time to go and paint.
Have Faith!
 <><

Baaaaaaaack at it! 
Norm came home the other day and had to go back to work on an emergency..  I usually 'unwind' with Norm, we watch a movie together and then off to bed,  but with him back to work - I thought - why not!  back to work for me too!
Into the studio/painting room and there was this white chair, it had been white for at least 6 years, time to just add paint! No sketches, no thoughts of what I was even going to paint... it did not take long for my sheep to appear, the rest...  just felt good. 
I did remember to take  few photos as I went along.  Norm arrived  home but by this time I was in my groove - lol.. he went to bed and I stayed up painting past two.
 
I need the chair! I'm having company this thanksgiving!!  
I asked thinking, it's been a very difficult year for this family with the death of Jim*,  and I know  sometimes we don't want to celebrate much - let alone holidays - so I would have been be fine either way, it was for my cousin to decide  & Elly said "Sure! A change will be nice" and I AM THRILLED!  I'm painting chairs and on PIN for decorating ideas!  
I cannot pull it off anymore by myself (not even close) - so it's a pot luck too! (the food kind) I need a chair(s) and the white was simply too boring for the day! 
I already feel truly blessed to be having our Fall Feast here!  
I wish I could invite more, really! lol  My house will be full as it is! 

                                   Family, friends, Dogs and LOVE = FULL HOUSE!
 
I mailed out the invites and now that they have seen them all and said YES! lol 
I can show you! Hand painted on HEMP cards of course.
It's weeks away but I have much to do! Today I'm transforming my kitchen chairs, finishing a custom made garland, painting the Turkey giveaway & more!

My son has gone away for the weekend, I was teary when he left, I tried to hide it but was not completely successful - it bothers me  that I am physically unable to go with him. 
I thought maybe this year.. he left reminding me 'your having better days than last year mom...'  after he pulled away I burst into tears.  Then, I said to myself - fell sorry or go create something  that WILL make someone smile.  That has become my job - lol. 
It's not like I get paid to draw or paint every day,  and I have  been blessed by all of you - to realize - money means nothing - as usual.  
I have been blessed, thanked and reminded a thousand times over now.
It is ALL about making others SMILE & occasionally - think.  ;)  

Time to go paint. I will be waiting until he comes back home for my hug and to hear what fish he caught in his new BIGGER net. I am so proud of our son, who ventures out on his own - exploring the world - not waiting for others or even life to 'wait until it's convenient'
He certainly is not afraid of much.  Bears beware. ;)

Have Faith! 
<><  xox  -

* Jim (Elly's husband) died earlier this year in a terrible accident. Golfing.
I will continue to educate on this subject as long as I live. It should NOT have happened.
We all miss Jim very, very much.  xox    

You can read about it by clicking on the tag Jim Smith ? Golf cart death.

I'm sure this toon has been drawn before by someone - oh well, I wanted to draw it again! Some times I see little sketches of cartoon ideas I've done - they make me giggle - and when I draw it large - I wonder;  have I drawn this before?  I did...  the sketch.  
We are as great as our hearts and mind remind us we are.
I am powerful.  
I realized this last week - not because of who I am, what I do or even what I have - more, because I remembered 'God has my back.'  Remember this and all else falls away.  The key - is to remember it... always.

On my mind..  Goodbye Laurie
I read a friend died last week. Laurie Turnpenny Atkinson.  Laurie and I were friends in our early 20's. I introduced her to her former husband (and still friend) John!  
They married the week before Norm and I &  I was glad to hear  they remained friends till her  death.  Laurie suffered for years from a  battle with cancer,  she was cut (literally) from top to bottom on her torso. She was proud to show you - IT MEANT SHE HAD SURVIVED. 
As soon as she could - Laurie would be up again &  Running -to educate on health and  eating right and not stopping for anyone or anything.   
Her Faith in God was incredibly strong. 
Unfortunately the last couple of years we did not speak much, not fighting ether.. we had exchanged a couple of e mail, I was not well - she was not well and - it showed.  
This is also a side effect of chronic illness and pain.. words said, ways parted - not over each other - but from each others pain. & exhaustion.
Laurie knew I loved her. I've no doubts. 
It brought me to tears when I saw her obituary, she leaves behind a daughter Amy, the same age as Storm  & will be missed by her dog..    ;( 
Laurie is now at peace. Goodbye friend.

Have faith
<><
xox

We found these foam shapes behind Walmart, garbage tossed from packaging we figure.
A peace sign shouted out! Well we had two, they looked like a Mercedes symbol you can see the piece we added.  Follow the photos below - step by step ... pretty easy stuff really!

I checked out Leslie The Bird Nerd just after posting this project and read this:
Today is also 'International Day of Peace' 
The theme of this year’s commemoration is “Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All” which aims to highlight the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. 
                              `Wishing you all a lovely and peace-filled day

How cool was that?  No wonder this peace sign called to me! 
Peace be with you!   Make your own!  If you don't have foam use cardboard! 
Use your imagination! I made a peace sign out of grapevine! 
Photos below!


A Very happy Birthday to the love of my life.. Storm, who is a young man of 23 years old.
I am beyond proud of the man he has become, and I've no doubts will continues to be.

Have Faith! 
<><
xox


*The winner of the contest (mini saw blade) was announced on the post and contacted

Hunting for 'sport',  is a weasel word.

I do not understand it.
If a person can be so cruel to shoot a harmless animal... for fun.
Fun? 
I watched the vid. of the grizzly in Canada being shot over and over, while the shooter and friends laugh in amusement at this poor bear.  
I do not want to admit out loud what I thought. 

I do not understand it. 
I do NOT agree with it. 

If you do, perhaps it's best we keep our distance.

Have faith 
<><
xox

Screech Screech! = I'm here come feed me!
  Check out this beautiful vid on a Bluejay if you have not seen one! 
These birds have stole my heart and peanuts.  I do not see them all the time, but they really do call and alert me as to when they are ready to visit the feeder so I can catch a glimpse if sit an watch after hearing that call.  I had to paint another and this one I am keeping.  
It just  had a desire of it's own and the colors flowed.
I like how you can see th fine lines of the saw engraved in the paint if you look closely, and you can not see it but the small brushstrokes  look like feathers!  What a wonderful. relaxing way to spend a Saturday!  

Today is Sunday and my son is taking me to the city! THC - I have not been there in years, 
looking for some hemp clothing.. I hope Cody is there- one of my preferred people on the planet.  Then, we are going to a meeting/discussion put on by students for sensible drug policy .  Just the name of that organization instills HOPE in my mind. 
Too bad there was not such an organization for Politicians - lol   
Read more here:  http://cssdp.org/?p=2225
I am excited - Education! Mushrooms & more.  Mushrooms for healing - I've been paying close attention to this topic and  I believe it will be the next  MEDICINE  to be explored. 
No more  made made poison - lets try to heal the way intended by God.
And lunch - a wonderful day ahead.   I have been thinking of a saw blade with a mushroom on it - I KNOW, I'll come home inspired!   

Don't FORGET to enter the contest on the post below!!
I will draw for the Mini Blade on Tuesday! 
You just comment under Poppy's photo where is says.. comment  lol 

Have Faith!
<><
xox

Our baby is turning 23! Glory Be!  How do I Give Thanks?
By sharing my gift and hopefully making someone else smile! 

***If you are reading this post all you have to do is 'comment' below!**** 
Please do not feel obligated to say anything nice, lol - a simple :) will do! 
It's not about me - It's about you - well 'one' of you anyhow. 
I do not care if you already own something by me or won a post card, 
I believe it will go to whom ever it is meant to go to! 

I will not share your e mail address with anyone,  I will ONLY contact the winner. 
If you comment, I will be responding to some - but really... It won't matter.
On Storms birthday, this Tuesday the 22nd., I will pick the winner
I will  check the comments 
- I usually have a number in my head & I'll get someone who knows  no one to pick for me...  It will be fair!  The Lucky winner will be picked and the saw blade will be mailed to them, once an address has been confirmed.  
OPEN to any one, any where in the world. I pay for shipping too.
NO STRINGS attached. A gift simple.  Saw 9 btw.

Since Storms medicine is cannabis, a plant & hummingbird! 
A reminder of two of Gods most beautiful gifts.
I just shipped a big blade to Norway, this won't can't possibly cost to mail what that one did.  ENTER! ANY one - Any where.
Just comment below! & thank you for the FB fun & continued support.

* I have tried to have contests on FB but  I am often unable to contact the winner  due to their privacy settings.  It then became  frustration... this way is the easiest for me to be able to have such contests.  If it works well I'll have another soon! 

A couple of photos below, the actual blade is just over 5 inches ;) 
My little Poppy poses beside for you to see. 
Good Luck!! 

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED! 
THE WINNER OF THE SAW BLADE WAS: RENEE MATTHEWS
THANKS TO ALL WHO ENTERED! ;)

 V   Comment below    V   

To think when Norm first asked me if I wanted Poppy (not yet born, or named- lol) 
I said: 'No'.
Why - because I had just had surgery - it was not successful, I could hardly walk right let alone look after a new pup. He persisted.. I said - Only "if" it was dark, and sure enough - Poppy was the only dark pup in the litter. 8 weeks later my tiny, tiny puppy sat on my lap and has not jumped off since!  Only to pee and chase squirrels..  o.k. No, joking. 
Poppy became my little lap dog and so much more. 

Her first year was all about teaching, protecting, educating the other dogs and loving her.
She started to "service" me before I even realized. She is now 2.
When I have my severe attacks, she jumps up, licks my face -(which she hardly ever does) and  makes a little squeaking noises.. I find before I know it, I'm focusing on her and NOT what is happening to me- I remember to breath and pray - this will pass. It's that simple.
She has become my 'comfort pill'.  Healthier than any addictive anxiety medication. *AND this is not anxiety.  Problem is- she is so darn cute- no one takes her seriously. 
Or me...  but a recent chain of events pushed me past 'that' point.  
I was told very recently told "you're too nice".  I'm not too nice! lol
 I just don't want to get people into trouble- sometimes I don't think they even realize what they do/say - I don't know all the time! 
From NOW on, I will be taken seriously and so will Poppy.

We will just have to work harder. Right Jo! Right Cathy! (Thanks Ladies - lol) 
That is exactly what we are doing!  I honestly will admit to crying over my Walmart experience with Poppy. The entire confrontal "What's wrong with you!" thing has just embarrased and depressed me. I just want to buy my f*cking bird seed.  
Not be questioned about Poppy every time go in the store.  My bluejays love peanuts and I walk there to get them. It gets me out.  It keep me focusing on walking and living! I only hope I can continue do it in the winter.  So, I was feeling at my end and I remembered to ask - lol  How simple is this.

I asked God for help in resolving this matter, I feel too tired to deal with issues sometimes.
The next day the very first e mail is is from care2 and it's all about service dogs! 
The first phone call is from Walmart head office..  from what I understand the matter has been addressed and I won't be having anymore issues. Thank you Walmart.
Then I find out September is service dog month!  So,  I decide to take Poppy to her first library visit! Storm drove me and in we went.  All was wonderful, we strolled around, looked at some books, she just stayed by my side, never made a peep. This was my biggest concern- she does not bark when I take her anywhere but not in the library! Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
I decided to read  the latest national geographic - animal issues and sure enough a few pages in and it's about dogs that help people! We sat and read about bloodhounds and 'pitties'. 
It was quite relaxing, Poppy glanced out the window from time to time at passers by. 
We walked home from there and a hike it was!  I did make a stop on the way and met a handsome young man named London. Cool name.  So - it was a great experience! A win win day! Thank you! 

I plan on sharing every great experience! A new adventure awaits! 
 I did not ask for this & I will not be shamed by it. 
Poppy is my service dog - if you don't get that - the problem is yours not mine. 
PLEASE show some understanding if you see someone with a service dog and PLEASE do NOT be quick to judge.  I know now - it could be for many reasons. 

Linda shared she saw a woman at Upper Canada Mall  one day  with a little dog, in a pink vest with a  pink bow in it's head being pushed around in a stroller ?  I don't get that. 
I do not agree with a dog in a stroller - lol  How is this good for a dog? AND yes, I do think this woman is NOT helping with the issue but I don't know her & I don't care, it is the malls decision not mine.

I care about being able to continue to explore this world with Poppy by my side. 
She is able to provide me with comfort at a time when humans  only seem to look at me with judgement & confusion.

Have Faith.
I must just simply remember this myself, certainly not worth wasting tears over. 

Tomorrow is the day! Tomorrow I will be posting the photo of the mini saw blade for someone to WIN FREE anywhere in the wold!!  Planting the seed of Love all over! Hahaha!
Just as it has been shown to me.  Get ready! All you have to do is comment! 
Have a terrific day! I'm off to paint!
<><  xox 

A full blown head cold, messing with my mind.  ;(  It's been a week.
Still dealing with feeling more tired than usual, I've been taking it easy  but not feeling like physically crafting/painting as much,  * mentally I still do. I'm happy to report as soon as I finish this entry - the paint is going to hit the  saw blade! The mini blade to be won by someone! 

Soon a new work of  art - I'm excited,  a new piece in mind called: 'Passerine Queen Flora'! 

Also on my mind... Poppy.  
Rather than allowing myself to get frustraited about how some 'see Poppy' - until they do I will continue to educate.  Teach Only Love. 
This is not an easy task -  think, think, think...  
Well! I have been taking Poppy with me to Shoppers Drugmart, easily a year, and they  never have even made mention. On our last visit she did have on her 'new vest' & was noticed and got a few more smiles but thankfully, no attention. 
She also must get use to her new position. "woot, woot" I am writing them a thank you card "Georgia Toons" style! and delivering it on Friday when I mail out my next batch. 
I have a couple of other places as well!  
The reason for this is I have had issues, leaving me feeling  depressed about not being able to get out.  It does not take much... I can admit, to keep me from going out.  
 I feel a strange sense of power with this little creature that cares for me & looks our for me. - and IF she was a big dog - no one would even question me. ;(  What is with people.  Wait until you see the first idea we are working on! More On Poppy tomorrow - It's national Service dog month!!!

My friend Todd Stimson wrote me from jail. 
If you knew Todd like I know Todd- your heart would break a little.. Todd wrote he had to physically defend himself. Bloodied hands.  Todd is the sort of guy who would not start a fight, he probably would not have to resort for violence - he is thoughtful, charming and I feel naturally - a lover, not a fighter.  I am sure Kerry his lovely wife would agree. & THAT is what JAIL does not non-violent offenders.  
Being beaten down, mentally & physically for growing plants. PLANTS.  On top of this he misses both his daughters so bad, I can feel his tears in his letters. 
For what?    Plants.   

Good News.. another court case was won. 
Cannabis is a medicine recognized in this country by the Supreme Court of Canada!
Not only are we now 'legally' permitted to eat our medicine - I've no doubts in my mind 
Seriously ill patients permitted to grow their medicine will be able to continue to do so.
Thank God, I know several people who were truly talking about ending their lives. People who do not want to take drugs that cause them to feel worse than the actual disease killing them!  If you leaned about  serious opiates - you would prefer more people used Cannabis. So many reasons.  TRY! Learn! Research! 
Turn off the tube and turn on your mind! ;)

People who hunt to hunt. Big Game.  I saw the bear video circulating on the internet, I did not know what I was watching until it was already started and it was disgusting. YES, I am making a judgement call.. COLD, nasty, senseless, cruel murder of an innocent creature.
Do you know the numbers of animals left remaining on this planet that we destroy.   
For what?  NOT the meat.  Not for necessity... For a HEAD on a wall.  
It is a level of selfishness unlike any other.  I don't know what to do about it, do you? 
I feel though the tides are turning against such actions, and the hunters will become the hunted if not careful. Some comments I have read on these stories make me realize there are people out there as passionate against big game killing as we are about our own lives.
Drawing about this today. I woke up with it on my mind.

Check out what this woman is doing: http://www.fear-project.com
AWESOME! What are you afraid of? 
I submitted an entry. I think she is saving minds and lives, really.

That's all for now..  time to PAINT that mini saw blade! 
Tomorrow a blog on Poppy
Saturday - I will post the mini saw blade and then leave it a few days - enough time for a few to enter if they wish. Tuesday the 22nd- in honour of Storms 23- I will give a gift to a stranger! 

Have faith 
xox
<><

I have company coming today -  Georgia .. on my mind - will wait for another day! 
Here is a recipe I am sure you will enjoy if you like your sandwich pickles! 

After a hard crafting session, we usually do lunch - it's the routine. ;)
The last time Cathy was here she brought sliced pickles & they were  delicious. 
She said she is 'never making pickles the old way again',  I've never made so I don't know the extent of the work,  but I trust her on it. 
She mailed the recipe and I share it with you pickle lovers, sweet & tangy slices of green goodness!  Here you go:

As promised, here's the pickle recipe.  
In four litre ice cream pail (or other container that will fit in fridge), measure:

3 cups white sugar
2 cups white vinegar
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp pickling salt
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp mustard seed
1 tsp celery seed
1 large sweet onion cut into chunks or 1 red or green pepper (optional)

Mix together.  

Wash and slice cucumbers about 1/4 inch thick.  (They stay crunchier if they aren't sliced too thinly.). Do not peel.  Add cucumbers to liquid.  Stir together.  Let stand for 2 hours on counter.  Add more cucumbers as they sink down until pail is full.  Store in fridge.  You can continue to add cucumbers for 2 or 3 days.  

Can eat the next day!
Enjoy :)

Tis the season! 
Have Faith 
xox 
<>< 

My first cardinal!  We have cardinals at the bird feeding station! The other night I watched them as the sun was setting, one kept picking up seeds and feeding the other, like it was a baby - but it was not. It was sweet - tweet tweet!  I must say that new feeder norm made- I posted yesterday is a bluejay magnet! I am beyond excited for the light of today to get out there and sit and watch for a while. I find it so peaceful and interesting this backyard entertainment was the best investment we have made in a while. Storm is fond of the woodpecker that also visits regular. I don't know enough about birds to know which ones will be staying! The bluejay I've seen in many winter photos - yippie!  

Time to stock up on nuts. I walk to Walmart (with Poppy) for the reason alone- nuts for the birds. lol More on that soon...

I am painting a small saw blade- the one you see below and I am going to give it away!! FREE * OPEN to anyone anywhere in the world that may be reading this blog.
How? It's simple - you are already 1/2 way there- you know how to get here!
 ** I'll post the painted image in a couple of days - on FB..
& then, you simply come back to my blog the day of the post, of the painted saw blade  image and comment!   Comment on that post * but thank you to the couple that commented already! I hope I did not confuse ;)

 I can keep better control of comments made here and I can easily contact the winner with a reply. FB  is not so easy - I've tried to pick a winner before and because  of my FB situation - I can not message people unless they comment - lol  
This will be easiest.
I believe I found a bird friendly coffee house and coffee provider! More on that soon! 
Tweet tweet! it's all coming together! 
Tomorrow:  Georgia... on my mind.
A few thing I have to get off my mind and chest.

Today - I paint! I am expecting a paint delivery today too! Woot Woot!
Paint excites me! How about you!?

Have Faith
<><

Sun or shade coffee? You don't know?  Neither did I , so don't feel bad.  I do now from reading  Silence of the Songbirds, which I am throughly enjoying.  Its simple, sun grown coffee is all about $$$ - your not surprised, I know.  Shade grown is NOT about cutting down all the trees- it is  growing coffee like they did for generations/decades - better for the  birds, countless creatures- not to mention the one called MAN. The planet too of course.

 If it is as simple as switching to shade grown coffee - won't you consider? 
I am now asking all retailers if they have shade grown coffee available and if not, I educate and ask if they will consider getting it.  Make people aware. Is that not what IT is about? Most people care about our futures and children futures - they just don't know.
As with cannabis. Education is the key.

Me, I'm being really selfish right now, I care about the birds! Once again - helpless, harmless creatures- in fact the opposite-  birds  are our world. The first feathered dinosaurs. You have no idea of how bad it would be without birds. Insect eater and seed planters! 
They are our original farmers!!
I have a can of Folgers in the cupboard. They are NOT shade grown, as soon as that can is gone - we have switched over. I found a place on line,  I can order coffee right to the door -  If I use It and am happy with the service - I'll share in a future blog.

About Pumpkin smashing...  I slept like a baby the day I squashed the pumpkin, it was long over due I think. Norm too, did much thinking..  Norm is not one of those guys who can say "I'm Sorry..." or "I was wrong" (can many husbands) - lol.  I can tell he did much thinking on the weekend when I look our kitchen window and see an awesome new 2 tier feeder!  Norms  version of sorry. 
Also a few other things I've 'been bugging' about  miraculously were all taken care of this weekend. Being 'quiet' in a relationship is good  occasionally, it gives each other time to - cool off & THINK.  He made stuff, I made meals and cleaned and painted. 
Storm was away for the weekend, so that too was good & he had a fantastic time! 
I'm thrilled to hear it! 

Today, all is well on the Peschel Family front, now it's time to go out and figure out how I'll hang the new feeder!  I think from the cloths line if it is not too heavy. It's more for bluejays and cardinals - & both visit now regular- I had the pleasure of watching two cardinals feed each other yesterday for a good 1/2 - a male and female. It was too sweet, better than watching cable T.V. any day! 

 So cheers! What will it be shade or sun?  TWEET TWEET! 
Save millions of birds by choosing shade please. It's that simple.
Read more about it here! Educate yourself and set yourself free - free like a bird! 
Have faith 
<>< xox

Tomorrow Saw 8, the Cardinal & the sunflower. 

Saw 7- Hummingbird love.  
I love Hummingbirds but I did not see one this year. Not at my feeder, not anywhere.
Slightly disappointed- I'll be better prepared for next year! I will research over the winter & design a humming bird feeding station. lol   Hummingbirds love cannabis, you can often see photos taken with them hovering about the beautiful bud. (seen below) 
What better idea for saw 7 painted with TLC & THC.   
Humming bird love is an 8 inch saw blade and is for sale on my Art for Purchase page.
I painted it yesterday & started saw 8 as well - and they saved my sanity for sure.

If you drove by our house around 8:30 a.m. yesterday, you would have seen the pumpkins fly!  Literally - well not a pumpkin but a skeleton, and mini coffin or two.  Fly to the curb & front lawn as far as I could throw.
It's September - Time for Georgia & Norm to fight about halloween.  ;(  
*WIVES - take warning - if your hubby is building a halloween display - watch closely and keep it under control!!! Ours as you know got out of control.  It grew big and became a job, a month long job at that. I can't imagine the money spent. I don't have to imagine, I have a pretty good idea and I want it to end, we are far from rich and have other priorities before a coffin gets made.  SIMPLE.   I walked into the garage yesterday and saw - not one new FANCY coffin but 2!  WTF. I knew about the first and decided  to 'let it go' and even encouraged - my mistake.  It seems like nothing to you but it is a big deal here for too many reasons to mention-  let's just say I lost it.
Big time. 

I once again can only imagine what the neighbours must think - lol - well they know!  They do. I've talked with them over the years and they are in agreement! IT got too big.  
My biggest fear now is some little kids will get hurt.  
IF we had land, or if someone had the facility - I would encourage it BIG time.  
Anyway - let's say it was a very quiet day and remainder of the weekend...   I know Norm knows I'm serious, now.  I feel bad about 'the pumpkin' - one cannot be repaired,  I really did lose it & I'm not proud of that either.  A marriage  is an agreement, you don't lie or sneak about stuff, not anything.  Sooner or later it comes out and someone is hurt.
IT is full of comprises!  Trust me after 23 years- you have no idea. ON BOTH PARTS.  
If something like a 'holiday and decorations' gets in the way and can not be resolved - then perhaps it is time to think about parting.  It make me laugh out loud - I do think, if  Norm and I were to divorce it won't be over some mistress, it will be over a skeleton in a coffin. 

Today is a new day.  New start. New saw blade to paint. 
New COFFIN to finish, I did make the mistake as saying 'he could set up a small display' on the from lawn - compromise.
I'll paint  saw 8 today! A cardinal on a sunflower!
The bluejay on the sunflower (saw 4) did not sell but was donated to OurLady of the Lake for their Annual Tea Party fundraiser! I was told the proceeds go to a youth group. ;) Perfect!

Have Faith
<><  xox 
 

 Those who are free of resentful thoughts surely find peace.
            ~Buddha

OR 


Think Good Stuff
               ~Moose

Have Faith
<>< xox

I was outside painting on one of my many saw blades and realized the gifts I've received as of late. None worth $$$, all priceless to me.  Here are just a few examples..

Eggs & Soap and Catnip Supppuuurrreme! A stranger visited and a friend left. 
I love that saying! In this case I feel it was true. A new friend who bought eggs (delicious taste) Are there any better gifts - of those from nature?  Given to us from the chicken, from the garden  or from the heart. Thank you J
Onya Ganja a.k.a.http://stonergirlsguide.com/sgg-blog/

Comments on Facebook - when someone takes the time to say something nice, that is a gift. I've seen far too many times when not so nice stuff is said - lol. Give Thanks!
This made me smile. It's how it works. Simple.  Best 'pill' out there ..WE are, for each other.

Mail... A Card with a photo  of a lady on a duck.  That is priceless! lol

Saw Blades from a sister! I've already painted the first - it's a stinker.
A chicken is waiting - cluck cluck! 

The gift of two eyes to see another day!!  ;)      Saw it on PIN..lol 

The gift of endless hours of entertainment and joy...  birds at a feeder - or two.
Tweet Tweet! Pretty Sweet!
Give Thanks! 

I already painted Saw 6.  I painted it outside  well into the evening (more tomorrow) and it was hot, a fine mist of sweat covered my arms as I painted. I love summer!
lol - It helps me if I Remember two things:
Over 1/2 of the world lives in conditions much worse than we do, for much longer than we do, with much less than we do. Especially water! To drink - let alone swim. Fact.
* I wish more people were paying attention to our water than Cannabis with Stephen Harper. ;(

So - enjoy it! Soak it up! 
It's September doit is soon gone until next Spring -when we get the green again!
Have faith 
<>< xox  


Some Gifts:

What a terrific long weekend it was! Norm took Friday off and I did not remember - so it was nice to have him home - and even better when he built my bird feeding station!  
I love it, the birds are not use to it yet and they are slowly starting to use. 
Except of the new bluejay buddies! Woot Woot! They have no problems taking the nuts from the coconut feeders attached to the poles ;) 
Both Storm and Norm were home - so it's been nice.

I sat outside and painted the skunk well into the evening. 
Music softly in the background so I could still hear the birds and bugs. I
 took some photos - you can see where I sit.  So, I'll bring it back inside. the painting room is ready so I'm good. ;)  
I'm putting my saw blades up for sale...  I have some wonderful news- I have my passport!
A 10 year passport! I am beyond excited- I have people I want to see, places I want to go - friends I want to have tea and cookies with! All over this world.

It's been a while and It's time to do some traveling! For this I will need to save some money. lol  - so selling my art it is.  I love when my work is enjoyed so I have no problems with it and I can't keep them all! I might keep one or two - I am about  to paint another bird today - a small blade! Then I will give it away! I am excited!  
I Love giving gifts of the heart - especially art!! 
Stay tooned - I will announce it on Face book and will draw for the winner on  my sons Birthday, the 22. to celebrate the best gift I was ever given. - Thanks God! 
Interested in purchasing Moolite Raid?  Click here:
http://www.georgiatoons.com/art-for-purchase.html

Out to paint! Amen! Give Thanks! As long as I can - I will! 
Have Faith 
<><   xox

The cover of Cannabis Digest complete! I'll scan and send it off tomorrow - the thought of these saw blades on a beautiful  Sunday afternoon in September in Canada! 
Dreams do come true!   Who knew I would have so much fun painting on an old saw blade?  
Child of God you were created to create and that is exactly what I will do. 
How about you?

Have Faith
xox<>< 

It is a long weekend By the way! 
Here is a great visual reminder for all. xox

I love Alice in Wonderland!

The Disney version - my VHS ate my Alice in Wonderland this week and was destroyed ;(  I still can't throw out the case..lol  I do not own a DVD copy... yet.
I did get to see any!  I had a moment - the VCR in the garage, now garbage. Should have got rid of that beast long ago, Destroyer of Disney Classics!

Well I started Saw 5 and it was going to be a crow in a Cannabis field, but then I looked around my painting room and was reminded I have a crow on the go - wait till you see! it will take me weeks  due to detail. So I was thinking of Alice and just drew this.. on the saw blade! nothing to look at - Not one white rabbit to be found... except in my imagination!
I was please d with the results!  Reference material is great but occasionally something screams to be born on it's own, and I'm glad it did.  

I loved every moment of painting this bunny. I was lost in my own wonderland..  I painted him well not the evening. As soon as I can take a better photo I will put him up for adoption. 
Painted with Love. Teaching about cannabis in a creative, passionate,recycled way! YAY!!
lol
Norm has no more saw blades... ;(   I do not wan't to buy new - it defeats the purpose.
I might go around to saw fixing places and ask him for his old. I don't know. For now - I have a cartoon or two to do and a canvas that is calling. Kaaaaaaa! Kaaaaa!

More on this blog later.. when my battery and mind has been charged ;)
Have Faith   xox   <><
With Love
Georgia 

Saw 4   =  A summer Bluejay!
Inspired by my own sunflower! I was sanding in the garden looking at this beauty and thought I have to paint a sunflower! So I took a few photos - why not paint my own?  Looked at some bluejays on line, seeing as I have only seen one all summer  at my nut feeder...  I'm still inspired! Plus The Toronto Bluejays are doing so well. lol 

It's September! My favorite month! The month my baby was born. 23 he will be. ;)
I remember feeding him shortly after he was born and hearing horns and cheers - the Toronto Bluejays won the series. ;)   
I have a cover to work on for Cannabis Digest this week and a few other ideas.. saw 5 lingers as well.. a little more fun for the next one.

I'm out to enjoy the backyard and birds today! The geese now, you hear them daily shouting goodbyes! Storm told me up North where he fishes you see some trees changing color already. He caught his new personal best btw,  I have seen a photo - I hope he was able to get a better one- but with the fish having to go back in the water so quickly - sometimes you don't!  I love that Storm LOVES nature.  

I had a interview with a lovely young woman - she goes by the name of 'Stoner girl' - she is far from the typical stoner.  I just wanted to hug her - lol.  More on that soon, she came to write an article for a magazine - a series of events brought us together in person and it was a wonderful visit!  As usual it went too fast and we both had too much to talk about! lol 

Time to get out and be inspired!  
Make something everyday! 
Even if that is only making someone smile. ;)

Have Faith! 
<><