How true...   

I put abundant amounts of love into these bears - I feel it radiating still from my pores today! I left the stars until this morning..  I wanted to wake up and continue the love I felt & carry it over.  It has.  

It might not appear but this was a couple of days of painting.  
6 layers at times.
I have to wait in between layers while  the paint dries. Gouache dries different then when applied.  It's a tricky  technique, instructing me in patience as I persevere.  
Painting on black board also is a bit tricky, numerous  times I think back to my classical animation training- thinking backwards- black first.. patience with cell painting, training for today. 

Love in every stroke.. It occurred to me
'I wonder how many strokes are in these paintings?
​lol     Too many to count.  Perfect.  

In the Garden of Love  & Medicine - also why they smile. 
As you can see 'He is a little grey- so the cannabis helps his old bear bones.

Hee hee hee.

Have a creative day!
Paint yourself some love!!

Have Faith
xox
<><

Lift off!  How I feel every morning with my first bong hit & pray it works as fast as can be.
I have been smoking/consuming what's called 'Grape Escape' and I feel  outstanding.. out of this world. Thank God & my Grower...   who is now on Instagram btw:
Dynamic Garden Design.  Kindly show him some love as he has me & my medicine the past decade. 

Spaced out- no.. creative & focused yes.
This little bud is just the explorer' - the 'mars rover' of buds for a different painting. I wondered how to put him in space suit, wonder no more.   Is this cannabis causing me to think about aliens- no,  it's the program - Ancient Aliens, I find it rather fascinating and do believe, simply because of all the unexplained technology/art/culture/architecture  from the past.  Tasks accomplished THEN we still can not accomplish today without advanced machinery.   Alone in Universe,  I don't think so.

I believe as with all medications from time to time our bodies need a jolt- a switch up from from our regular routine.  How wonderful we are able to accomplish this with the switch of a  plant strain- unlike medications that take literally months - just to get off of- in order to try another.  I am loving this switch up.  Painting till 2a.m.  most night back a it a  6/7 a.m.  yes, I nap in the afternoon- I prefer to say recharge- and sometimes I don't nap - I think of ideas to paint.  I am grateful from my daily grape escapes.  

Dream of other worlds! Let your imagination explore! You might come up with a  little bud in a space suit - you might come up with a new cookie recipe! Inspired by cannabis & love- we will not fail.

I am painting bears.   Love in every stroke.

Have Faith
<><
xox

I painted this little guy/girl/both too...

Here is a sign of my age.. 
Who remembers Holly Hobbie?
I DO!  I'm pretty sure I had a Holly Hobbie Doll, didn't we all? 

I was reminiscing on PIN, easy to do…  Raggedy Ann, Cabbage patch babies (I still have my original), The Sunshine family- now we can simply see toys of our past- get that ‘warm and fuzzy feeling all over again in a few seconds.

I was looking at of all things, the ‘Doll from Trilogy of Terror, remember him??  Frig that thing terrified me.  lol 
I was thinking of making a clay version for my desk in my office… lol - as long as his necklace does not fall off, Bird should be good. 

Well there she was - Holly Hobbie and BAM it hit me as plain as day.. she needs to become  ‘Holy iHighBe’  hee hee hee. 
It is my tribute art to Holly Hobbie -the Artist - of the same name more so than the doll, her one little image became iconic and loved by many little girls & boys.  She also is famous her her children books.

My little rendition of Holly -  My little Cannabis girl is also loved by millions around the world- the cannabis part anyhow!

She turned out so adorable, I have her framed and in my bedroom.  It makes me smile when I look at her & gives me a flash back of all warm & fuzzy - it’s a win, win.

I have decided to offer her as a print. It will be signed and numbered I’m only making 100.   
You can order her off Etsy link: 

https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/494723282/holly-ihighbe?ref=shop_home_active_1

Order your own cute little 'Holy iHighbe' print to frame -
​I have mine in a Walmart frame I purchased already with the matt for only $20.  
She is quite the little conversation piece,  instantly she is recognized but with a twist. 
A Cannabis Twist.


Have a Creative day - I know I will!  

Have faith  
xox
<><​

Check her out in My Etsy Shop!    

The future belongs
to those who believe
​ in the beauty of their dreams.

- Eleanor Roosevelt -

By the Grace of God...  until tomorrow.
xox
<><

​

                                   Only in the darkness can you see the stars.
                                                           ~Martin Luther King Jr.

To sit and paint and get lost in each stroke of fur...      thank God.
I am reminded I was created to create.  All else can wait.
No opinions matter.   No rush. No deadline. No $ pressure...  
positively paining.

I can't escape these starry nights, thankfully they help with all the grey days.
1:30 a.m. &  I think... 'I'll just sketch quick...'  2 hours later.
Another bear & fox is born.  
Do what you love. I have no clue what I'll do with them, I was asked to sell one, not at the moment.

Have Faith 
xox
<><

I’m taking a social media break - to paint & ponder on the year to come.  Being the troglodyte that I am, I’ve decided to explore more this year, get some new music, focus less on negative news & more on positive & LOVE - not just for me, everyone needs more love.  Don’t you? 

Since I’m taking a break to paint - those who read my blog have a ‘heads up on my gratitude decision for 2017. Everyday,  I paint a ‘warm up and then work on a bigger piece- sometimes completing it, other times it takes a few days needless to say- I’ve quite to collection of little originals!  What will I do with them all?
GIVE some away.  Share.  Make  someone smile!  Furnish a fan with fabulous fridge art!
Snail Mail out some TLC made with THC by ME!?
​
Who gets the first - Victoria J, a fan who mailed me a Christmas card, she lives in Monticello, Arkansas and has been sending cards for a couple of years, her timing perfect & she does not even know it! Unless she reads this blog. lol  
Her little original is ready to go out with Fridays mail.

I’ve wrapped and labeled my art ready to be shared with a select few. How do you get one??!
I don’t know..  we’ll figure that out as 2017 goes along. 

I’m going to explore more in 2017.
What are you focusing Love, Passion, Career, Health, Success, Money?  Have an idea of where you want to start.

I think I’ll give out an original to the first person who sends me a postcard for my blank bulletin bored… Hint Hint. 
:) 
Thank You.
​
Have Faith
xox
<><

Snow Storm today here in Ontario- good day to paint. 
Tragic all the talent the world lost in 2016. 

Every Christmas I give away a framed original.
This year is no exception- except  -lol- instead of having a draw I decided to give it to someone in particular, to express my gratitude & appreciation.   Someone who really has made my/our life better, to whom I truly am grateful and wish to show my thanks & love with my heart & art.

I also thought of a funny, 'private card' -only in the sence that I don't need to share it with all of you, my 'Hallmarks' are truly originals- with only one being sent & only few viewing. They are often thought of with very secific people in mind, they are personal and intimate,  funny,  sexual & even sad.  I share them with those I trust most.  I will say this one made me blush slightly and giggle most of the time I was painting it, my admiration of this man and his looks too - are no secret- althougth he is not 'my type',  my age & taste matured, I like 'salt & pepper' - or white hair- which I'm sure he will have soon enough, no doubts!!! 

A framed original - also of my choosing- cannabis related of course, 3 comics (signed), magazines & a copy of  Hempathy by Ivan Art to educate the children!! & the hand painted card...  ​

To: Justin Trudeau.

Thank you for providing me with peace again.
Thank you for being more than a set of old, outdated rules.
Thank you for caring about US  not just profit.
Thank you for truly making a difference.
Thank you for representing! Woot Woot! & doing it so elegalantly.
Thank you for caring about women across the country & in assisting in making us 'heard'. 
Thank you by leading by examply - with your cabinet & your Pride Parade Participation! 
Thank you for bringing about legalization in Canada &  in assisting  with the attention & education, research of  Cannabis across the globe. 
More importantly thank you for addressing missing women & idgenious peoples, in particular  addressing and assisting the children who are in serious need of a better life and education.  Canada is not a 3rd world cournty - Not in any corner. 
Countless thank you's - for great halloween costumes and family participation, a lovely wife Sophie (inside & out) also working with mental health issues & more, her terrific wardrobe & confidence to match. Thank you for boxing & jogging photos, that smile.. lol   Thank you.

Yes, I decided to say thanks this year to Justin Trudeau.
I don't know about you but he has made my life more positive & I look forward to an even better 2017 because of him.  Merry Christmas & Happy Birthday Justin!!

All this, then I look up the address and I get a thank you immediately back- 
No postage required.
WHAT??  I rub my eyes -  that's what it said- just like when I write to Santa?? lol
I call the post office  to ask one of the lovely ladies who is alwasy more than
egar to assist- @shoppers in keswick - great post office serive-
"Is this true?" my excitement obvious...
"Yes.. "   I am told.
"ANYTHING????... A letter or a package?!  A framed original??"
Instantly they know it's me, hee hee hee. 
"I'll ask...  Yes. Georgia, even a framed original!"  
FREE!! How Christmas Cool is that!? I was going to have it rushed! I still will.   
To give is to receive. I got back my $$ before it was even spent!
Merry Christmas & Ho Ho Ho.

You only have one person you can give a gift to this year...
who would it be & what would you give them?   

Have Faith
<><
xox

Who needs a last minute gift bag for something small??
Here it is.. painted just for you - so you can make one too!

You can see how to make it here on timelapse:
 https://www.instagram.com/p/BOHqCE8AzEv/?taken-by=georgia.toons

Have faith
<>< 
xox

Kiss me under a thousand stars..    
I was listening to the song and suddenly these bears appeared.  
I'm not sure where they are coming from, I'm not overly fond of bears...  at least I don't think I am.  
I know, I really dispise seeing them shot.  

They look terrific on a dark background. I love to paint fur.. and when I think Canada- I think 'bear' over.. elephant or lion. These bears are all about Love.  It's that simple.  
 Just happy to be together.  ​Looking, waiting, longing.

I added Bud because it was late when I was painting, my hand sore but I just  'filled' a BIG blunt- 'Palm papers' I tried (pre -rolled so you just fill it) Storm does not like the smell, I'm not overly keen other than the ease.  BUT I smoked it*, put on my headphones - turned up the tunes..  I felt great and just kept painting until I became too tired. Not too sore.  
What do you do about arthritis?
I do take an anti inflamatory - when 'I feel' I need it.  
Cannabis also helps I believe with assisting the 'mental ability', which keeps us from focusing on our pain but instead allows us to keep focused on passion.  All kinds ;) 
I'snt that what a medicine should do?  Isn't that what love does?

Focus on your passion & it will surly bloom! 

* I do smoke my bong in my office with Bird- and he does not seem to mind, as a matter of fact- I think he enjoys it, he likes to fly around in the evening - little show off that he is! & sings more.   BUT I do NOT smoke a full blunt in the same room - I leave.  I dont want to hotbox bird ;) 
It's nice to think of others...  no?

​
Have Faith
<><
xox
​

Thank you!
For every single person who has shared, reposted, talked about (good & bad), glanced at, printed, mailed & e mailed any of my drawings. Thank you.  Each time - bringing ALL of US one step closer to ending the negative stigma attached to cannabis as a medicine.

I started drawing to educate 10 years ago- when at 14 Storm had his first bong hit and his pain was no longer controlling him- he became master & controller of it. No more tylenol, codine or morphine to constantly consider. I thank God & the universe for the cannabis plant daily!

Inspired by love & we did not want parents who were already dealing with a sick child  have to deal with some of the 'BULLSHIT' we had to.  As well as be informed it was in FACT helping with chronic bone pain, that NOTHING was able to do as well & keep our son happy & healhty & active.  We decided to share, because of the loss of judgemental family & friends to the constant questions and concerns raised by othes - including myself at times, AND the politics of it all.  Health Canada Horror stories & fear mongering rampant in our own country, never mind any place else in the past 10 years -Good riddance, to a hateful, harmful government here in Canada.  Welcome Justin, who will legalize. be patient people.

Cananbis has introduced us to a new world, literally, one filled with compassonate & understanding people,  ready to be laughed at and shunned for thier love of a plant.  People who refuse to sit back and watch all day- instead, they draw, talk, protest, bake, blog, bulldoze & blunder thier way through to make a differnence, and they do.  
I am very thankful for them.

We have also met a few 'heavy hitters' in this industry and I am thankful for them, they fight the legal battles and go to bat for the millions who cannot due to lack of  health or finance. Many have been fighting for years and yes- it too can take a toll on thier health. 
We've made many friends ;) thank you...  all around the world!  Thank You!
Friends who showed us the ropes, taught us a few tricks, took us under their wings and more. Thank You.  
A enemy or two had been made a long the way I've no doubts. YOU will never please everyone & I am grateful for them as well - they teach the the most dificult lessons - each time helping make me stronger in the process.  More determined.

Every person who has taken the time to read  this blog and ignored my continued spelling & grammar errors!  I know how difficult it is for many, there too should be a lesson, if you are judge'n me bi my spellin, with out understanding - you have too much time on your hands.
& just like judging someone for wanting to choose cannabis over  pills - we are no better.
I try to only judge 'myself' at the end of  each day. That alone is enough. 

Thank you.

Time to Draw

How it works in this life I believe..    be nice & Give what you can if you don't have money use your gifts to make people smile.  I can tell you it WORKS.. I am smiling  today. 

I painted a little 'custom coffee' sleeve the other day- I am so excited for her to see it - the though of her and her expression make me smile...  sure enough because i gave with TLC (as I do with all I paint)  a package arrived (Storm and I jumping in the kitchen!! -lol) - the same day - American thanksgiving and it is from an American friend - Stephen Boehme!! Glass artist supreme - and I started laughing!  I follow Stephen on PIN - he follows me and helps me! I know- every now and then he 'pins an octopus, bee or even something I'm working on- he an I, have the same eye, and it is enjoyable and inspiring to share with a fellow artist.
I made Stephen a Daurma doll egg- when I noticed he was 'pinning them' and sent it last Easter, I also made many for friends - NOW- I have my very own Glass buddy  -
EYES wide open- reminding me to achieve my goals and keep going! You know it! 
And RED for Luck & Good fortune!  ;)  I make my own luck, from now on! We all do.
Bring it on! I'm going to keep him on my desk.. and have name for him already - hee hee
 it a secret between me and my Daruma Doll

Inspired by love you can not fail.
I am grateful for my friends- I've never met Stephen- he's been warned he's in for a HUG supreme-when we do meet! lol - His wife is also aware! Haha!  To live in this time and make friends over the internet- is incredible. I've blogged about Stephen before - if you are a collector of glass art - you will thank me.   I do feel very "?' special? lol not in that way- a bit emotional, really that Stephen took the time to make this and sent it to me.  
I feel honoured - as an artist and friend and it does the heart good.
Thank you.

I am going to do the same in 2017 - a year to give.
I've been painting every day- I have so many little pieces- I don't know what to do with.. Im giving some away! yes, to those who have been faithfully following Georgia Toons on FB  for years. Why not.. so if I 'message you' asking for your address  you might want to provide it. 
GIVE  your talent,  your time...  you friendship.  

Love makes the world Go round. 

Have Faith!
xox
<><

​:)    Check out my doll:

It's my American friends Thanks Giving!  
My heart is with them for several reasons.  
I know many Americans are giving thanks for cannabis and it's PROGRESS forward!
Give thanks!  Finally, they can enjoy it recreationally & with each state that becomes legal, or  for medical purposes - myths are dispelled.   
Adults & Children finally become able to access medicine!  
Amen! Give Thanks!

Reading about children on drugs/prescribed pills is heart wrenching.  Some as young as 4 - is mind blowing- literally. Yet, we read about cannabis and the "research needed"  when we have constant proof & lawsuits these pills kill.  Don't get me wrong research is needed!  
I agree with it. Then those who wish to access it purely for the medicinal benefits may, for specific needs. We are well aware of the different strains & the different pains they assist.  I pray  kids will be able to access edibles - first, to try and see if this eases their depression/ADHD/?/what ever - in tiny does - I believe it would be a better alternative for all I have been reading about and know. YOU research it if you don't believe me.
IF they really NEED it... make it one of the first options to try, a natural plant.
No, I am not a doctor, I AM a mother sharing my opinion.
A mom with one son- who loves him to the universe and back.
A mom who witnessed pain being controlled  for the first time in 14 years with cannabis.
A miracle...  YES.
10 years later- Give thanks!! No side effects- like warned/promised by other  prescribed alternatives.  I am beyond thankful - I know more people will be helped.  Give Thanks.

I'm mostly appreciative of the actual American friend's I have made over the years.  
Thank you.
Several through face book, the EXPOs and other social medial outlets... Wow- what a world we live in - Give thanks! I have become very fond of a few of you and I feel the same returned. Give thanks, our world becomes closer every day.  
When we are closer we care about what happens to each other.  
Stephen our American Glass Artist friend (one of a few) e mailed me a package is on the way!! Poor Storm! Hahaha: This is me when waiting for a package: Sponge bob. 
Really, Im embarrassed to admit I get like this!  
hee hee hee - Storm a.k.a Patrick in this agrees! lol  Poppy is Sandy. ;) 
I do have one American friend in particular who has me smiling quite a bit lately,
Give Thanks. I find it fascinating our little differences- there is quite a few- you don't really notice  it until we can converse  'as friends'.  I like your accents!
It feels lovely to be smiling when I think of you.
Yes, I am truly thankful for ALL my American friends, you enrich my life, make me laugh, share your talents & gifts, kind e mail and more.  You have invited us into your homes and on your sofas! lol  Sent me everything from post cards to potholders!   Even those I do not communicate with on a regular basis, (Faye), I'm amazed at how many time many of you pop in my head. Give Thanks.  I have several American friends & fans with 'Georgia Toons' - most of my post cards have gone to the USA, how wonderful and FUN to write post cards to places I have only read about in books or heard from Bugs ;) hee hee hee
Georgia Toons postcards on fridges across America!!  Who could ask of more?  Me!
I'm sending out more every year - Give thanks.   
​Thank YOU! Helping plant the seed of Cannabis Education.
I hope you enjoy your day with your family & friends and know, I'm thinking of you! 
OMGosh- Storm showed me footage of traffic in LA . No thanks! Kowabunga!
Drive safe!

Back to painting one of my all time favourite quotes. 
I'll share tomorrow - as continued thanks! ;)
I do have a wicked craving for some turkey.. Poppy too. 

Happy Thanks Giving! 
With Love:
​Georgia & family

Let us remember all who have died frighting for what they believed  was important.
As we witness the United States fight amongst itself & others,  it  has never been more import to understand Remembrance Day & pray we DO NOT REPEAT it.
​War - what is is good for - absolutely nothing. 


Have Faith
<><
xox

Yesterday we celebrated ThanksGiving! 
Sitting here today I realize what a Thankful dinner it was, nothing fancy, Mom cooked a ham and scalloped potatoes! & made Storm venison stew! Mom kicked me out of the kitchen - "I don't like anyone around when I'm cooking!" - I get it! I don't like anyone around when I'm painting.  The occasional distraction is nice, but usually - No.  
As it happened we had an unexpected guest!
A friend of Storms who we all know - at first I was like- Do we have enough? lol Then I remembered my friend Roberts quote.. "more than a mouthful is more than enough to share."  something like that.. lol    So, we made a place at the table! 

​Here's the thing... his family just last week lost everything to a devastating fire in Keswick.
Tom is the owner of the original postcard with the dogs.. 'Grass a day' - It did not get lost in
the fire it was in his Barrie apt.  Holy cow.. I don't even know what to say, his family has already been through so much, anyhow- I'm thrilled we had an unexpected guest! We all were.  It made thanks Giving all the more thankful. 

I actually baked a carrot cake - stuffed with cream cheese! It was relaxing, fun & stress free.
Today I painted a little Give away for facebook, The image you see above. I will draw for the original tomorrow.
Why? because I'm thankful I get to paint!
I can mail it to someone to make them happy. 
I can share my gift.  Make a stranger smile.

Amen

Happy Thanks Giving Canada! 

The King of the Jungle is complete!  
The little kitty purrs peacefully as she meditates, knowing her King has her back..  Kings.  
See it as 3 cats of the jungle if you wish, it's meant to make you smile, that's all.
The meaning for me is beyond words. Countless brushstrokes, thoughts, ideas.
As soon as it is framed in the snuggery it goes, where I will see it  every day.​ 41:10

I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way
-- things that I had no words for.
                   ~ Georgia O'Keefe -

Happy Thanks Giving Weekend Canada!


Have faith
<><
xox

Yesterday  I was sitting outside getting some sun, I add nuts to the feeder then I sit out there and have my tea.. when I came back inside I saw a friend sitting on my kitchen table - a Bluejay! Of course it was frightened and it started towards my kitchen window - I reached out and grabbed it!  I' have 'Bird' to thank for my bird catching skills (hee hee hee _ I grin with pride)  I guess because I couldn't believe it myself & it just got calm.  Like I said I do this to bird all the time and at first he would shake.. until he knew I meant him no harm, now he likes it.. this Bluejay was so calm for one second started to panic.. then it looked at me, right in the face and calmed down, looking at me.. its beak was open and I wondered if it would bite so I gently rubbed it and it seemed to like this.. I rubbed its head feathers and it leaned in.. I could not stop smiling! I walked  up to my office to get my camera.. it just looked at me. 

I took some photos... I am so glad my hands were warm, I can tell you it's a strange sensation to have a bluejay claw around one of your finders. It was a powerful yet gentle grasp, big enough so my finger could have been the branch. Wow. 
As I spoke gently to it looked and blinked and did not try to escape once.
We walked out to the back deck, and opened my hands and it was gone, I can still see it leave my hands.. as though a perfect scene from a movie. 
Not long after I'm sure the same bluejay visited me at the deck feeder it sat there and just looked at me...  picked up 3 nuts before deciding and left. 

I have this big black canvas waiting... as I finish the 3 cats today I'll be thinking about my next bluejay painting. I want it to be allegorical, only I'll understand it's meaning, I started one of Scruffy in a boat earlier in the summer & decided to not continue. It was full of meaning, meaning that can stay in the past. 

After I research bluejays, symbolisms & facts I'll start to sketch. I'd be lying if I said my bluejay encounter didn't feel like a blessing. I'll admit holding it  -for one second -sorry, but I thought of John Jame Audubon who I found out watching a documentary- killed and used the dead birds to draw from, which made them so incredibly accurate.  
No.   I could never do it.  There is no need now, so many photos are available- I've taken 100's of bluejay photos! 

Letting it go, the dogs were in shock! I think, they thought I was faking it!?  I was so calm -the bluejay was so calm.. when it left my hands all their eyes (7 in total) including the cat- bulged!! It was comical- then they looked at me like WTF was that!?

Time to finish King of the Jungle & imagine good things - cause they make me smile! 
Have a great day & remember miracles happen ALL the time.  Big & small.  
Open your heart and watch what happens.

Have Faith
<><
xox

Swim your own risk..  Poppy is ready for adventure.
I've been coming up with some funny cartoons lately. Life related.
I've decided to make Poppy my alter Ego and draw more strips.

This painting  took me a while, I started it in the spring when my friend came to paint and could not seem to complete it, first it was a goldfish then Poppy, today it is finished.  Sometimes it just takes a while for something 'click.
You will see there are sharks in the water Poppy.. it's never just simple swimming fun.
You never know who swims in the shadows.  
The octopus is on our side so all is good, it's  powerful purple presence is passionately perplexed by Poppy.
I finished it today thinking of new adventure, forgetting problems of the day.  
If God puts it in front of me - I am taking the chance -  Me & Poppy! 
Wether it is an actual adventure or one in painting, cartooning... It's all ONE big adventure.
Bring it on!!  

It's my new painting for my bathroom so I can sit and ponder at the swim ahead every morning.  
hee hee

I have a NEW bigger canvas waiting..
Black.. Not for long.

Have faith
<>< xox
​

Last nights giggle:
I took poppy for a late (sun setting) nights long walk! It was a beautiful evening the sun still warm.. I wore jeans but wished I had wore shorts!  I am thrilled with all our walking this summer - last night I thought - this is fantastic, we kept up a great pace, no balance issues Life is good... until the snow arrives anyhow.  ;)

This older gentleman  (my age- lol) walks towards me with a cute little dog (off leash) it runs over to Poppy- I realize how small she is when this small dog is 2x her size..  

I say: "Oh, he's cute! Whats his name?

The guys responds :
"LaFleur!... Like the hockey player. My son named him!"  & smiles at me
then he asks "what's your dogs name?"
Me: "Poppy! ... like Opium. I named her!"

Well.. if you could have seen this guys face! He put his hand up to his forehead like he had to seriously think about what I just said... it took him a second and then he burst out laughing.
We both did.. then I said 'nice meeting you' and went on my way.
Giggling as I left- his face made it all worth while. lol

*I am Canadian I knew instantly who he was referring to,  btw- I'm not sure et it was Lafeur I do know it was a Canadian hockey player!! lol 
​I'm up and ready to PAINT! How about you? Lets get this show on the road!  
Have a terrific day! Do what you love & the rest WILL follow.

Have Faith
xox
​<><

It's raining...  good, everything  going from yellow to green again.
Thank you.

Scruffy is doing fine, she is eating, sleeping and snoring as usual  -
Thank you.
​
Note.. taking a dog outside in the pouring rain with a  'cone on.. '
(a cartoon is born)
Thank you.

I'm painting something special for a gift. Top secret - can't share the image until the gift is given.. but I will after because so far it is turning out pretty cool, if I do says myself.  Sometimes - you never get to 'hear' what people think of your art- so, IF you think it's cool- tell yourself!!  It's a positive start! 
​Thank you.

It is being painting with love.. that's another positive start.

Have faith
<><
xox
​

Medical patients in Canada who use cannabis can now grow their own. Amen.
The court case proved it is not right to force people to  have to use a 'Legal Gov. approved growers', but they can grow their own or  if not well enough have a 'designated grower '- do it for them: 
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/medical-marijuana-home-growing-law-1.3716860
Thank God. How insane was it to tell  anyone they can't grow plants that help them heal in the first place.  A crime against humanity, now changed here in Canada!  I feel very fucking proud of my country right now. VERY ILL Children all over Canada - will now be introduced more to the medicine they need.  Would you not try a natural herb before a synthetic drug for your child? IF PROVEN to help?  Google: Dr. Gupta Weed.... if you still doubt.

I'm not even sure what to draw yet!  Next cannabis will become a legal recreational drug, good - it will mean fewer alcohol related deaths! I know you probably don't believe that.. I've been reading about it the past few years. Don't believe me? Research it.  I Laughed Out Loud yesterday sitting the Dr.s office, across the T.V. screen - 'Ottawa warns of possible increase in impaired driving if cannabis is legalized' - (something like that).  Of course. Bring on the fear mongering!  Do you really think that there have been that FEW  cannabis smoking drivers over the years/decades that it has not become and  issue? LOL!  It's not.

I had a great lunch with my moms friend Geoff yesterday, he took me to an "Irish pub", he confused my love of  Scottish with Irish.. I'll forgive him. We chuckled, chatted and enjoyed a steak & mushroom pie, talked about going back to school late in life (which he did & was very successful at), why he got into politics- someone said to him, "your opinion doesn't matter- you're not even Canadian...", he quickly became one shortly there after.  Cannabis,  he is a cigarette smoker and I suggested he switch to cannabis! It's less harmful and apparently from all I've been reading - less addictive- so you smoke less. He told me he would think it over.  ;) 

Then I was at the Dr.s, we both laughed out loud at the fact that  he could help me with my foot pain!!  He is  frustrated they can't seem to help me otherwise.. especially since I'm not  for pills or surgery, again. He remarked, he's never seen anyone with a case like mine, so severe and does not know how I'm coping.. me either. Cannabis.   We talked about much, how this illness has also given me a new found strength, the fights I've won with it, MC, The bank, anyone re: Poppy now.. and then he said while freezing the bottom of my foot:
& Cannanbis! You have won that fight too!  I don't personally feel like I had any part in the winning.  I prayed our stories of Storms and my own experience we shared have been heard, that was all.   ***For all sick Canadians, already dealing with so much including judgement - constantly for those who DO NOT UNDERSTAND.  One less fuckign thing to worry about. Affordable medicine, loving grown at home.

It comes with rules, as it should.. I know some will think 'I'm gonna grow!'  lol- good luck, Its not that easy and they will have 'regulations' not to mention  hard work, I know a few growers and they can be very stressed at times, not form politics - from work. it has toby safe, I'd be a hypocrite if I didn't  talk about that.  it doesn't matter really - people are never going to stop growing illegal cannabis- at least now patients who truly need it have the option. AT least NOW maybe the police will focus on other more important crimes like the missing indian woman in Canada! HUMAN trafficking.  What matters most. HUMANS.

I AM very upset still they are saying "compassion clubs' 'dispensaries' NOW, don't matter'  now that they have the legally approved Licensed producers.... and that they are considering the possibility of selling it via the pharmacy- WE ALL knew that was coming! $$$$$$$  
If not for  compassion clubs we wold have been lost. I will tell you first hand,  many I know are not the criminals  they are being made out to be - but people who truly want to help  others.  Our government is out to make money like everyone else. Greed rules.  
The L.C.B.O. is starting 'mail home' delivery.. wow.  I wonder how that will effect alcohol abuse in his country- well, I don't wonder. I know.  

Time to think of what to draw to celebrate!
I'm also drawing the cover for Cannabis Digest and its 50th issue! 
I'm calling it 'Give  Thanks!!!'  

Thank you Canada. Thank you Kirk & John...
Thank you everyone whom has ever tried to educate regarding the cannabis plant.
Thank you God.

Have faith
xox
<>< 

Recently one of the girls at the coffee shop 'Brittany', mentioned she wanted some help with a 'cut out/face in the hole'  she was making of her moms birthday - I offered my assistance of course!   I love making these things! The wood was brought over primed (Brittany's grandma did that, I met her at the coffee shop a few days earlier & instantly liked the woman) then I just started to draw *after a few moments on PIN ;)  and came up with this Hawaiian style head in a hole!  The girls were amazed that I could "just draw it like that'  lol.  

Practice, practice, practice... &   Thank you God, for my gift. 

Jessie, Brittany, Storm & Poppy all helped!  The deal was: I draw, they then color in the lines and then we all added some details here & there!  Every photo I see cracks me up! I can't help but smile ( I hope you do too!) 
It only took a day and we had many laughs & interesting conversations as well.

It was nice to spend the day speaking with the girls, I didn't get the chance to really speak to Brittany on our short visit to the coffee shop- what a confident, beautiful young woman who makes me think-- she's gonna be a 'get the fuck out of my way woman!' YaaaaHoooo!  lol 
I really enjoyed painting a Tiki for the first time and will make one - decorative for the pool area- a totem - just for fun.  Note this Tiki has a hole lower in the totem for a face but if only two people - the face pops back in! 

These are very easy to make & are great for all kinds of events.  This one was a gift to Brittany's mom I guess you could say! It was a fun day I was more than happy to help and it inspired a 'tiki totem' for the pool.. coming soon...

Yesterday we stated our little paint lessons book!  It was a great afternoon we tried contour painting, sketching in the garden and then painting  effects.. all from my newest Craftsy class btw! Illustrated natural journalling-  this teacher is terrific!    Take an online class! Expand your mind instead of wasting it watching others live on FB  or any social media for that matter.  Everything in moderation.  
I was watching a friend right now on FB having a meltdown and it's not nice-  it made me sign off for a bit.. I wan't to send a message saying 'stay the fuck off for the sake of your health!'  I just might...   do something creative!!

Today I'm working on a new cannabis cartoon Storm gave the idea for.. simple yet factual. 
Tomorrow, new art.

Have faith- it will all work out.
xox - love yourself and tell others too!
<><  - I believe in being good.

I like to say "I have an assistant"- who assist me and it's been a blessing this summer!
I was telling a friend I needed help, with all sorts of stuff, finding art, hanging art in the office, sorting the paint room and was at a loss.. she said "ask that girl at the coffee shop,  she likes your cartooning!"  Jessie, she had drawn me that cute little 'get sconed'.. what did I have to lose?  I asked she said "YES!"   I explained the deal, we would barter *as I do with many, for art lessons, original art - what ever.  She showed up an  we instantly hit it off. How could you not like her?    
I can't help but think of her as a firecracker- petite with red hair but huge on personality and talent!  We had a drawing lesson, more to see what she was capable of and I soon realized she was quick to pick up what ever I showed her & has what many do not-  the imagination to go with!   & her own distinctive style already- even if she does not realize it.  Next an introduction to gouache & sure enough her first sample, painted in her own time blew me away.. Check out the cute little bag she made for  the 'coffee scrubs':

After only a quick introductory lesson?? I didn't know if wanted to smack her or hug her! 
lol..  I get this way when I meet someone with artistic talent and find out they are not using it,  how does everyone not eat, breath and sleep art, I don't know.   ;) 
Jessie has joined me up at the cottage,  there too she was incredibly helpful and simply a pleasure to be around, although it is where Poppy 'decided to like her' - and since, is having no problems showing her affection as does Daisy!  You can hear her speak it "Jessies here!" she runs to get what ever toy she knows Jessie will throw.

What started as some assistance has turned into a friendship, I will miss her when she returns to school but will be visiting all the time - so that's good.   Never let age get in the way of speaking to anyone, as I teach her, quite offen she teaches me something as well.  I've got to know a  couple of her sisters and it is really  wonderful to know they are all smart, educated, traveled, kind, successful & funny young woman (well Jenny, another sister- she's another story, she cracks me up... I'm not sure why, she too manages to make me smile instantly- good thing, since I see her usually for 'our first coffee of the day)  they have been a blessing in our lives and I'm happy to know them!  * Jade too- who returns to law school in a few weeks in B.C. ! One more excuse to visit and I asked her to become 'something I can use..' Not a criminal lawyer- lol I know from our short interactions - watch out.  Just the thought of her being a lawyer - kicking ass- makes me smile.

Jessie also makes unbelievable body scrubs- so far I've had the lemon, coffee and  mint- they exfoliate my psoriasis and have helped get it a little more manageable lately, not to mention  stimulate all the senses.  I really think Jessie is going to be something- CREATIVE!  I look forward to watching it happen!  

I've included my favourite photo taken at the cottage.  
She has proven to be much needed & added sunshine this summer and I'm truly grateful to God for the  introduction.  & Jenny - for having her work in her coffeeshop and make fun of her 'little sister', as sisters do.  

Today she's coming over  I have a surprise a backyard painting journal!!! 
I'm forcing her to start one! lol   I'll show you when complete - she has talent and I can't wait to see it blossom! In full out gouache color!  
​Do what you love, surround yourself with people you enjoy and inspire and make you smile.  
​
Come back tomorrow to see 'our nature journal' and the FUN  'Hawaiian' photo op/cut out we made! 

​Have faith
xox <><    

* P.S. there are still about 3 people waiting for art - I've not forgot..
have faith, trust in me...  it will come,  you will see.  ;)

BTW all my framing is done by my longtime friend Kat of Kat's gallery. 
I highly recommend. :  https://www.instagram.com/kats.gallery/   
Just don't ask her personal questions about us, I can't remember if we are fighting or not, she probably can't either...  30, years I think.  hee hee hee  xox

When away, I slept.
I did not paint... which is blowing my mind.  3 little sketches, the one I did finish- I learned what 'rain does to Gouache' my meditation frog (below) was washed away..  so was I.
Up with he birds- and the birds were AMAZING!  I was in bird utopia! 
Arrrrgh! I forgot to bring some peanuts. 
From bed to the dock was my first stop each morning as the girls - Daisy & Poppy would need to pee. *thanks to Storm for leaving his dog with me. & I would sit and sip my tea.
I'd wander between the cottage and dock, in at 11 to nap...  deck, dock, bed nap.. lol!
Really.  I needed it bad. Holy cow.
I was instantly overtaken with the  peace and exhaustion- physically & mentally, took hold and said SLEEP. Thankfully, where ever I went, Daisy lay 3 feet away, ever watching me & Poppy. I LOVE my dogs. I love all dogs.  I was so relaxed I slept with all the windows and doors open on the hottest few days and  absorbed the quiet. Satellite Tv- I turned on and thought REALLY!?  REALLY Georgia!? It was in time for the line from Ghost Busters (* which I will watch @ my desk painting) "Do you have any Hobbies?"  - "I collect moulds, fungus and spores."  It cracked me up, lol - that is Storm.  He is anxious for  the fall foray season. ;)  I could NOT stay awake the first couple of days and hardly ate.  
My body was screaming and my mind called the shots. SLEEP
I even started to feel guilty- you're not painting...   oh well, sit back & breath.
I thought about a few people in specific on my mind lately all the time. 
I didn't shed a teaar- also hard for even me to believe - lol, I sat and chilled with Poppy & Daisy. We wandered, I caught a big frog and a tiny one, thew rocks and napped.

Now, I'm home for a bit & paint fumes drift up stairs,  the kitchen, it'c coming. 
Norm goes non-stop.  Bird is happy I am home. 
I tell you what... I feel stronger mentally  & physically :
God has me on the path, I just have to keep walking.
I know what needs to be done, there is no confusion in my mind.
I know what I want & I will have it.  
Focus on what I am here to do.  Draw.

I am drawing - it was an overwhelming desire yesterday - to draw about police abuse in America. Why?  SPEAK UP!! FOR EACH OTHER! We are ONE it should not be tolerated.
It's getting out of control, no wonder people are shooting cops- who does not think that?
Bring attention to it. Yes, there are great police officer out there but the evidence does not lie- thank God for cameras.  More on it tomorrow.
Understand also- I have a few Americans I'm really fond of - hee hee, seriously, I think about them and it's heart breaking. I want to have a few acres and tell them come on up, put up a tent and hang out.  This toon is born of love from my friends and I feel it does speak the truth.

Trump or Hillary?    .. .Hillary. 

A Thank YOU Universe & to my good friend Jim, I love that Guy  & everyone knows it.  
I was telling Storm what a wonderful friend he's been all these years, so many laughs. 
For assisting in providing me with peace & always showing me love.
You know, as I do with  everyone close to me at one time sooner or later it seems...
I put him to the test a few times & he has never left me.  XOX  Thank God.

xox Have Faith  <><