Bear adventures.. here's a few I was playing with, above Blue spores for a blue bear... Psilocybin help with depression research shows, pay attention - it will become more prevalent in the months to come! A safer alternative then many anti-depressants without the harmful side effects. I like the all blue bear, he's inspired another painting idea - for another day!
I'm not sharing everything on social media simply because I don't feel like it, some days I appreciate the break from the mega distraction called Instagram. I don't know how people do it - those who have Facebook, Instagram & TicToc... must not have much time for actual life. I tell myself - I'll just go check things out and easily an hour passes - seeming like minutes, time I could be creating. Below is a painting I started and disliked, I finished it anyway -it will help the next time I attempt the same idea -IF. I wasn't pleased with the direction it was going but like the concept'. Even (mostly) our mistakes teach us the fastest -what not to do again. I was impatient - more layering was needed. & below that- the stumps bear - I also became bored with, I like the pose but the rest was lacking. Or maybe I just didn't want to paint. It was also on my desk when my cat spilled water, you can notice near the face where it started to bleed'... some paintings like those two (not blue bear) ended up as kindling. The important lesson to myself - is every painting is a lesson- what to do, not to do. The more you practice -the more you learn! The next will absolutely be better - as we should be every day. It's to be a balmy 14 today... I can't wait for the snow to melt off the deck! The dogs- excited as I am can smell the spring getting ready to spring! Created to create. Look up! Gouache on white. 8 x 8
It's official! - Storm and I became Official at our new church and were welcomed -officially as new members with a couple fo others, this past Sunday. Storm chose this church because his friend is the pastor so he suggested we check it out and I'm glad he did. Sometimes you don't realize what you are missing. Our last church was much bigger than this tiny church in physical building size and parishioners. The worship is different'... less structured that what I was use to but I love it all the same. I like the more relaxed ways- yet not relaxed in zeal or message for God & Jesus and each other. We have been officially welcomed but felt welcomed since our first visit! It's a wonderful tiny church with stained glass, comfortable seating - a screen for our Zoom attendees and even a bell tower - which I wish they would ring! I told Storm , I'd like that bell, I'd put it on the deck and train the dogs and bluejays to come when rung. It was nice to be officially welcomed and we are pleased to be a part of the church community - all there to worship Jesus & God and a reminder for the week to try to live our best lives. Be who God knows we are. I'm trying to remember names now, it's getting easier each week. Reverend Max is such a nice human, Arrow, who doesn't warm up to many took to him instantly. I find him very funny & quick to make everyone laugh/smile... he also has an addictive laugh imo. I've said before -you don't need a church to be with GOD, often I relate to the forest being my couch where I feel closest to God and all His creations but having fellow -humans who are getting together (taking time out of their busy lives) to get together to sing, read, celebrate, pray - WORSHIP - is an added bonus. Where two or more are gathered in my name... powerful stuff. It was definitely the high lite of my week (well, besides the woodpecker (lol). This week we had things to do and did not stay after mass but that's always a nice way to end our visit - coffee, conversation & a treat, I always feel energized ready for what ever the week wants to bring. I'm grateful for this tiny church and extended church family - joined in love. Of course - there is a very neat young human Thomas who greets us, I'm fond of him already as I'm sure most are. There's also an adorable little girl a toddler - isn't it amazing how kids just take down all sorts of barriers! Just seeing them makes me smile! Joining a group, church - is showing yourself love, in this case - showing yourself & Jesus love at the same time! We are happy, it's official. Now, Bible study on the sofa with Poppy, Arrow, Ginger & Daisy - another favourite pastime. Created to create. Prayer Bear. gouache on black 8 x 8
Focusing on the Bear necessities. Teach Only Love - That is what you are. ~Jesus. ACIM Warmer days ahead.. 8 x 8 gouache on watercolour & bookmark.
Art and a bookmark! I'm envisioning warmer days- it already is a bit warmer, snows melting and the days are getting longer - yay! what's not to celebrate. Painting this happy bear made me happier, do bears eat cannanbis? I don't know. Standing amongst a bunch of plants - better yet a field is outstanding! I read some good news = The RCMP will ease up and let them use cannabis off hours - GOOD & finally! How ridiculous not to - it's safer than alcohol and will help them (I hope) destress, relax & even forget some what they have to deal with on a continual basis. I'mm sure many could also benefit from psilocybin use. Soon, it will time to plant the seeds - speaking of seeds ... a friend gave us some squash, it was the tastiest squash I've ever had! I wondered why I don't see them at the store and realized because they are delicate'. There were yellow with orange/brown stripes and when you roast them, you eat the skin as well! Not tuff or chewy - crunchy and sweet would be how I'd describe them, I've saved seeds and already imagine them sprouting. I wanted to paint one - but it didn't manage to get it done before they were all baked. I'll be sure to share some if they sprout this summer. This summer! Closer than you think. I started a new book called Atomic Habits, and happy to report I have already established a few 'atomic habits' I'm pleased with, reading the bible & painting daily! Which I'm about to do both - soon. Below a lovely moment of my girls snuggling. Create some Atomic Habits - or art! Pondering polar bear. & bookmark. gouache on watercolour
Do not bear a grudge. Polar bear thinking about not bearing a grudge. Heehee I've done it, chances are you have too... I've held a grudge 0r two in my lifetime. The sooner you let it go - the sooner you move forward and experience JOY. Holding a grudge is pointless - most of the time the person you are holding it against, isn't even aware -so you are only holding it for yourself and robbing yourself of Joy, keeping yourself 'stuck'. There are so many more things to focus on than hurtful feelings towards another. Yes, I still get angry but understand - just let it go.. move on so I can paint & have peace restored in my own mind & heart, that's what Jesus would want. Forgive... unfortunately the trust is usually gone but it's all part of the lesson. It takes less energy to forgive than to hold a grudge, in my experience. Holding a grudge is a sign of immaturity, spiritual immaturity. I trust in the Lord to look after it all! Leviticus 19:18 18 “‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbour as yourself. I am the Lord. Who has time for grudges when I hardly have enough hours in the day to paint? I think I'll get in the habit of adding a bookmark at the same time, it fits the paper and is like a mini area to experiment as I work on the main feature. I always have left over paint too & Now, a book mark! I will add a ribbon and gift it to a reader. This was just todays 'warm up. I have decided to focus only on art inspired by the bible! Every time I read it - I am inspired. 40 days at least, dedicated to The Lord with painting, timing should bring me into March. I hope you continue to follow -if not that's o.k., I know we are not all on the same path but eventually we all arrive at the same destination! I have faith. The day you start working to please God and not others,) including yourself) is the day you you feel free! Everything becomes fun', a passion instead of a chore'. Next a bear I've painting before, slightly different. Created to create! Watching it go up in flames. Gouache on black
A 38 year old Quebec resident admitted to starting numerous forest fires, 14, After he was followed on social media & in real life & confronted by police, he has pled guilty. It’s one thing to accidentally start a forest fire, another for those who start them intentionally. That’s another level of nasty, I’m sure he’ll do jail time, he is a risk to public safety. A threat in particular to all those who fight forest fires. At the time it was suggested the government was starting them - many commented “it was nature, lightning..” clearly, not natural, either way I’m glad he was caught. What do you think about (soon to be) President Trump? In the past I have expressed my thoughts and drawings and now… I am proof, we can all change our minds, if I were American Trump would be my choice. The world has learned much the past few years and I do think Americans would be better off with Trump compared to the now president they have who does not appear physically or mentally fit to run a country. Sure he has lied, as have they all. Sure he is not such a nice human at times - as can we all be. Above all (literally), I have pondered The Word of God. God has us ALL exactly where we are meant to be, even Trump. I wish him & Americans well. If I were to try to make exceptions based on my personal preference, well that wouldn’t say much for my faith in God. Thy Will Be Done. Trump appears to speak the truth, as brutal as it is at times - which is more than most. Do I like what he says or how he says it … not always but at least he’s entertaining & I like his attempted dance moves. Look at Trudeau and all that he’s said, things I never thought he’d say. Lies, threats & betrayal to Canadians… I’m ready for a change. Will the next be better? Only God knows. I have surrendered with my ‘likes or dislikes’ of who appears to run the show, truthfully… who’d want the job? Not I. My son makes the best masked potatoes, good thing or bad? I’m not sure. I woke thinking about the leftovers and had a big bowl of mashed potatoes for breakfast, it’s cold so it hit the spot nicely (currently -15)! They are rich, flavourful and my belly thanks him, my waistline not so much. Heehee Now, I’m about to paint a prayer, focus on & spend time with God & the goodness he has provided. Drawing close to God, God draws closer to you. I like that! I’m drawing as much as I can! Created to create. Smokey Bear ‘Only You.’ Part two. Acrylic on wood 9.5
This piece is officially titled: Only You. When researching vintage smokey I noticed many had Smokey with cubs or baby deer, small animals (usually babies) & fire filled skies with orange and yellow lighting in the background. Too often we worry about human life & not animals, but all Gods creatures deserve consideration. It’s not the animals starting forest fires, usually simple carelessness from inconsiderate humans start them. Smokey Bear has a powerful message to share, a reminder for all: the forest if full! Home to many animals, birds & insects. Trees are proven to communicate with each other… do they scream to each other during a fire? Forest bathing, walking in the woods… watching the lite glisten through the leaves, exploring for fungi, seeing all sorts of creatures on the trail cameras - I feel blessed to be here. Blessed with every changing season I’m still around to see… Gods gift to us all. It was alone in the wilderness, Jesus knew. I’m always asked when others are going shopping - do you want anything? My reply is usually: No. I need nothing. Our past house had a Walmart built within walking distance & we always were getting stuff, most not needed’, stuff. I was forever arguing with Norm who felt it necessary to go almost daily, spending money we did not have on crap we did not need. Note - we also ate less healthy then we do now, easier access to junk & junk food, can be problem. Living in the forest, we are taught by nature what one truly needs: to become more self sufficient, to be aware of our surroundings, to be in AWE of Gods creation & every detail… which can all go up with one match tossed on pine needle trail or campfire carelessly left smouldering. I understand & appreciate fire bans when the forest is too dry. Firefighters are heroes, forest rangers too. My tribute to Smokey Bear is done.. for now. Painting fire with all this snow was a challenge to the mind, I have one more image on the desk. First I’ll add another log to the fire on this chilly morning & thank the dead tree for keeping me & the girls warm. Give thanks - everyday for everything. Canada (the world) needs MORE water bombing planes, not people bombing. There’s a message for Smokey. Created to create. Smokey Bear’ Part one. Acrylic on wood 9.5
I doubt many are thinking of forest fires in Canada at the moment, not here anyway - blanketed by a few inches of snow (more on the way) except, those who have been directly effected by them last summer from Canada to California to Greece Australia - all around the world the past few years we have all witnessed raging fires displacing many, destroying much! I’m glad it finally snowed as the forest needs saturation. We all need the snow, turned into water when it melts, every living thing depends on it. I found it curiously coincidental, a couple of weeks ago I printed images of Smokey The Bear to paint & then forgot about him... and just a few days ago, I heard from a long time friend that I’ve not communicated with for a while and he tells me (& sent photos) of his relationship with none other than - Smokey Bear. He also corrected me: it’s not ‘Smokey The Bear’ - It’s ‘Smokey Bear’. This wording came directly from Smokey himself. I was also sent a few photos of Smokey when he was at the Whitehouse last Easter. I’m reminded, I have friends & bears in high places! Thank you Lord. My friend is American & we have been buds well over a decade or two… talk about timing though. I decided it must be a sign, time to paint my idea. If everyone lived in the woods, they’d take better care of nature from the trees to the insects, birds, bees, bears - all Gods creation & creatures. Yes, some fires happen naturally but most are man made, worse - one of our most devastating fires started with a planned burning (by the government) that went terribly wrong. That's usually the case when man/woman tries to play God. There are benefits of burning parts of a forest, provided it goes as anticipated. Who doesn’t like Smokey? I’ll never understand why Canada stopped using Smokey and now use a fox, that will never be as popular or well recognized (I didn't remember util I researched Smokey in Canada) as the icon bear was created in the USA August 1944 -Smokey Bear will be 80 this year! Prevented from being as popular here... probably politics & money are the cause, no matter - Smokey Bear still gets the message out everywhere. Only You can prevent fires! Make sure that match/campfire is OUT! Smokey Bear is on social media (of course) & has a webpage: https://smokeybear.com - check it out, it's very informative & fun. I like his Instagram page. Funny yet always to the point: Only You can prevent wildfires. I wanted to keep this image vintage Smokey Bear with a powerful message… that’s part 2. next. To Be continued... Shadow box bear. Gouache in a wooden frame image 5 x 5
I created something a little different than usual, although it still involved painting. I’ve had this shadowbox frame for a while and decided it was time to use it or lose it. I think I’ll be giving away a few supplies I have. The most difficult part of this creation was cutting out the front image & bear, using a box cutter as scissors are of no use to me. Holding a box cutter is enough of a task on it’s own. Still I couldn’t give up because this creation was already in my mind - waiting to appear before me. Tadaaa!! Lol It will probably end up as a gift for someone. I’d like to do another but the thought of asking for help ‘cutting it out’ is a deterrent. Instead I’ll keep painting, my goal is to alternate gouache with acrylic steadily. Acrylic take longer & is a completely different feel, both I enjoy but the gouache is limited to mostly paper. Acrylic is much more durable and you can get it wet without being destroyed. I was reading an article on the quality of gouache paint and cheap gouache fades - was the conclusion. The gouache I use is not cheap, I have not noticed any fading, thankfully. It was fun to try something a little different & the shadowbox is now off my storage shelf - home to a tiny bear in a tiny forest near a little lake. Back to paper for the next few creations. A few people with birthdays have been on my mind, I think it's time to create some cards. What ever you do - do it with love - gratitude for the Creator. Be still & know - twirling art. 7.5 diameter Acrylic on wood.
When I went to pick the 'canvas for 'Steam Boat Willie' I noticed another that had been sketched but not painted & I decided it was a great way to start off the new year - finishing a project that I started 'last year. Done! Also a simple yet powerful message from God: Be Still & KNOW. Whats to know? God knew. Exodus 2:24. God knew the people were suffering, worked to death & treated poorly.. God knows everything. Trust in God, have faith he hears our grumbling, leave it with God & it will be done. Exodus teaches us how patient God is and how many chances some are given. There are times God needs us to be humbled. I know of a few that would be better off humbled, including myself at times in my life... some are destine to find out the hard way. Like the Pharaoh, took him a bit... It's taken years, decades but I give thanks every morning & night, for each day. If you only say one prayer - Let it be: Thank you. God knows what's in our hearts. God sees all & hears all & knows all. When I feel overwhelmed and don't understand 'why' ... I try to just sit back and remember to Be Still (patient & trusting, don't react) & know God is aware. That is the most powerful feeling. The ultimate reassurance. If God is for us - who can be against us? - So don't worry, instead... Be Still & Know. It's my first bear, first acrylic, first twirling art of 2024 and first 'Word of God', now twirling in the breeze - a constant reminder Of Gods Love. A perfect start to 2024. Now it's time for Steam Boat Willie - I'll time-lapse painting it - all in greyscale since the original is in black & White. Created to Create. Snow bear. gouache on black. 8 x 8
Where ever two or more are gathered in His name... Do snow bears count? ...I think so. I'm working on a few more cards today, get them ready to go and I'm done for another holiday season. On to debating wether or not to set up the tree, I always start to think 'Id like a real tree' -but then I go for a walk in the woods and the thought of killing a tree to sit in my living room for a month, is not an option... especially considering it could live a few more decades where it is, house critters, provide shade, nutrients and beauty... without glass baubles. Fake or nothing... maybe I'll dig up a small one that is growing too close to the driveway, pot it for Christmas and plant it in the spring in a better location. Created to Create Remembrance bear... 8 x 8 gouache on black.
Remembrance Day .. how could we forget, how can we ever forget with wars waging and looming? With something new to be divided about daily. Hopefully we don't forget, only to repeat senseless killing over political gains. That's who' has always wins in wars. More funding for a bigger armies. I wonder how many, who have died for our rights', would be 'rolling in their graves' to see what they died for, now. Where would you even start. I am remembering all who have gone on this day, not just from war. Missed and loved, always. I am grateful for all those who fight for their beliefs - it is the political agenda behind them, I am not grateful for. It is the loss of innocent lives I disagree with, soldiers & civilians. I will not pick sides.. there are no winners in war except for those encouraging the killing = the war machine$$$. War is a business & a select few profit from it, very much. Today pray for Peace, give thanks for who help keep the peace, in the past & future & pray thanks for those who did lose their life defending what they loved. Pray we learn from our past so as not to keep repeating. Pray to The King of Peace - Praise Jesus! Teacher bear. 8 x 8.
Just playing around.. READ. Knowledge is power & reading is powerful. The more you know, the more you grow. Have a creative day. Rainy days. 8 x 8 gouache on black
Just because it's raining.. bears still linger. A bear got into a woman's van and destroyed it, ripped to shreds, I wonder if insurance covers such an incident, they also get into homes. Imagine a bear walking into your house.. they seem pretty skittish overall but occasionally I see videos where they seem astoundingly brazen. If Arrow can open doors so can bears. I've read they have an incredible sense of smell & why many will be long gone in the woods before you see them - they will smell you. This wee bear is peeking inside, probably wanting in to be dry. The above painting took more than usual consideration. First, I painted the outside of the window with the washi' tape in place, for the black lines/window frames. Then I removed the tape and painted the inside, the plants. The fun part of learning a new process is you can continue to advance to make it better, the next painting. What are you reading? I just finished Robert Crumbs 'Genesis and consider all the work that went into it. I wonder how long the project took... years, probably. I just started C.S. Lewis, signature classics - several books in one, just completed the first and it has me thinking about quite a bit about morality, God and looking forward to the rest. I watched a documentary on C.S.Lewis, amazed he was at one point an atheist. I recall something I read in ACIM: "Many are called but few are chosen." should be "All are called but few choose to listen." It's raining, bears wait to be painted - for the month of Novembear, what will you create today? The Clearing... Hello! 8 x 8 gouache on black
I don't think bears eat cannabis.. I don't know. I'm sure a bear has discovered a garden in the bush from time to time.... possibly a few humans too, with glee. I changed the direction of this painting, while painting 3 times.. if I don't like how something is progressing, I just continue & change it.. Every painting is still and always will be a learning process. The background green is metallic that turns from green to gold warming up this black bear. Cold, damp and I am sore.. it's just how it is, On these days I try to stretch a little more, take it easy, don't try things that I know only frustrate -like peel vegetables. Read & paint & pray. Once snow arrives it takes the edge off but days like today, I am grateful for cannabis. I have a puff just to loosen my wrists today. For people still concerned with getting high' , I can't remember the last time I got HIGH". Cannabis has always been medicine for me, it does not stop the pain or prevent it, it does allow me to deal with it. How wonderful now, we can access it easily, still no one has overdosed from it. How ridiculous it all seems now, that argument: it will hurt kids. Fricken chips (hot taco chips, you get at a variety store) kill kids. Ironically, I tried those taco chips before I read a kid died from them - they were brutal yet addictive. Drugs are not killing people - the economy is. Trudeau. Having no where to live (no wonder immigrants are leaving) -winter on the way.. food prices soaring, rent rising, everything has become more expensive, longer hours for " bullshit pay", more mental health issues with less mental health help - is what is killing Canadians. If cannabis helps take the edge off - without the fear of overdose, good. Better to smoke a joint that down a bottle of vodka - fact. Enough with these lies & excuses. Lies harm kids. Trampolines have hurt/killed more kids than imaginable yet - they'll be on sale again this spring. UTV accidents kill kids... but cannabis - No, no child has died because of cannabis alone. Education is what keeps kids safe, lies only confuse them. Cereal! Lately, I'm reading about cereal > cancer causing breakfast stuff. I'm not a fan, I can't remember the last bowl of cereal... I was reading cornflakes were invented to suppress masturbation -wtf? Are you aware that many cereals available in the USA & Canada are prohibited in other parts of the world because they are so unhealthy? What are YOU feeding you child? I was reading about the Halloween horror stories - we all know them -kids die from poisoned candy, a razorblades in a an apple.. turns out it's never happened, just the media creating fear... well, a child (or two) has died from drug overdoes and it was made to 'look like' it was halloween candy - it was carelessness by an adult -not keeping their drugs away from children. It's very sad but the reality is carelessness kill kids, daily. If you don't need cannabis or medication -good for you! I truly hope you stay that way - what a blessing... but remember not to judge another's journey or how they try to ease their pain & fears. Mental Health Monday - eat an old school breakfast- eggs, bacon real fruit! Don't be hard on yourself, we all learning everyday, something new, old lies exposed - a new opportunity to get it right - do better, be better. Adult? In pain... have you tried cannabis? Try before you try opiates. What have you got to lose... besides your life? Have a creative day! Hello Honey! 8 x 8 gouache on black
This bear was painted using a 9flat wide brush, with the exception of a tiny liner for the sun details on the fur and a few leaves, most leaves are also the flat brush held on it's side, great for bunches of leaves! I find it amusing, I tried to record it to show the process and did so on slow motion. Once the camera is set up, I forget about it, that's how it should be.. focusing on the art being created - creating, is what's important. While trying to take a photo my son was in the room and did son stuff,' that he's been doing 30 years and it made me laugh, he stuck his hand infront of my camera. Sons.. intentionally annoying moms since the beginning of time. lol I enjoy it, it keeps life normal. Storm took me to dinner this past weekend - twice! The first time because we were ready but reservations were cancelled due to road issues, so we had to go to a different restaurant. Rhubarb, just around the corner. The food and service was delicious as always. It did seem a little crowded though, I think it was just our table placement, luckily it didn't effect the food or company. The next night we went to a new place Heathers Lodge & it was a wonderful evening and what a view! The timing was perfect on the drive there the sunset was brilliant and we arrived just in time to watch it disappear with a stunning reflection on the lake. Each dish was a delight - since they had to cancel the reservation from the evening before we were also treated to complimentary drinks and chocolates. It's a clever menu they have, coming from someone who helped run a restaurant. It must save on time, preparation, service and $. You can also stay overnight (no kids) "Adult Lodge' & it's looks very comfortable, I was told it's booked solid, all summer - no doubts. Today, 'we' attended mass via zoom! My first zoom experience and I so happy I tuned in, it was nice to see everyone and it made me want to be there in person, the service was about Remembrance day, starting with one of my favourite parishioners reading: In Flanders Field, a perfect 'first zoom' experience. The dogs tried to distract but then settled down. My remembrance day art is already complete, since we're hearing about 'war daily and more lives lost daily, it's been on my mind. How anyone can choose a side ' when death, destruction, suffering is 'equal' on both sides, is beyond me. WWJD? Enjoy today - tomorrow is not promised. , Got Smores? 8 x 8 gouache on black
This Bear has the expression as if I've caught him off guard, roasting marshmallows, the metallic embers lifting into the sky (you can't see them here) on a beautiful summers night. I love the light of fire, candles an campfires, there's nothing like the warm glow & feeling of the wood stove when you come in from the cold. Campfires especially are mesmerizing as they hi light the trees and rocks closest to us... This bears fur is shimmering with gold to reflect the fire. ...For God, who said, Let light shine out of darkness. Not summer, snow on the ground, it's snowed twice already... it will melt. Yesterdays bear (you'll see her next) I remembered to record but did so on slow motion - so NO bear video. Too bad as I painted 90% of it with a wide flat brush to show you the difference. I'll just have to do it again. I was trying to think of famous bears - can you think of any? Please, let me know. Theres Yogi Bear & Booboo, Smokey The Bear, Baloo (Jungle book bear) and the 3 bears... that's all I can think of, there's got to me more. Oh and Pooh Bear of course... Paddington Bear too. Can you guess when I'm using sad bear? We will have a few more outdoor fires, as long as the fire pit doesn't get covered in snow. Tis the Season! Clocks go back this weekend, I tell you having chickens proves how time/light effects us. They went from an egg a day - to none, maybe one a week... so imagine how the time change messes with our human internal clocks. We are giving the chickens a rest but will soon turn the lights on at 6 & off naturally , to try to get some consistent egg laying, at least for weekly baking. I understand why people kill their chickens in the fall for stewing, and save eggs in water, it's less work in the winter, for birds not producing. No chickens will be killed for stew... this year. It's all lessons in life. Ducks still like to venture outside for a stroll but the chickens prefer the warmth of the coop. Time to get cracking with painting lessons & painting. Have a creative day! |