It's raining in cottage country! I live in cottage country- I must pinch myself!
The mosquitos - actually  bite me enough - I don't need to pinch myself, long sleepwear (that covers my ankles) is now living attire, hee hee hee! Yes- I still love it! EVERY day- I've never had an 'Oh my God what have we done' moment - - but I've had countless  'Thank You God' for getting us HERE  moments.   It rained last night! We needed it- living in a forest -you start to notice when it gets dry - I can hear this big 'dead' tree (that Norm needs to cut down as soon as he get the opportunity) creak on the hot days - demanding our attention before it lands on the bird deck - other than that I giggled- it rains  on the weekends in cottage country for all the 'cottagers' that come up - they'll stil have fun!

I ventured out in Minden the other day and I absolutely thought everyone I encountered was wonderful! A neighbour drove by and yelled from his truck "How's Denny!?".. I thought for a second & yelled back  "I don't know - she moved!"  I realized he thought I was her.
lol - see I told you we resembled each other! He then introduced himself - he lives Up the hill &  has horses & yes I can go & take photos! I just might paint a horse one day.   In town I met  a few shop owners who also knew 'Denny - all confirming what I already felt ' she is a lovely human with a kind heart.. no wonder my studio is so calming - I was in there last night until dark and my hands demanded I quit - not my heart.

I found a cheese store in Minden- Yeah! The cheddar with carmelized onions- OH my tastebuds! It's a tiny shop tucked away full of delicious treats- so glad I found it right away  & the owner - I immediately liked him! One of those people I just want to hug- I can sense the good nature. lol I refrained as I am new to the neighbourhood. I tiny shop run by Betty (the dog lover) right next door - carries designer clothing - I'm treating myself to the little butterfly top' - I'll need something when company visits & I'm almost ready for company! Will you visit?

The house looks terrific - if I do say so - I'm officially unpacked - other than a few boxes with Studio stuff- waiting for a studio... the open concept makes me laugh out loud- for years my imagined dream home  has had to have a long hall to throw a ball - from my bedroom  I can throw the ball to the front door- WEEE - when the driveway is covered with snow we'll still be playing ball. A peek into  'my little wooden' studio - (below) - I find it bigger than the last two rooms - everything has been placed with TLC - while under THC- LOTs, I can't begin to tell you how much I love my little creative space - my work will speak for itself.  

I have noticed already since I'm not unpacking as much I am smoking less... because I am  content - happy even.   Interesting.  This home is my dream home, easy to clean,  all on one level, all the 'luxuries' of a house in the city in cottage country - even a dishwasher! (No, I don't mean Norm)  & on several acres...   lot's to wander & explore & be inspired by when I'm not painting.  Rodney (from the cheese store) told me of an ap. that outlines the property and I can put markers while I make trails & won't get lost - let the adventure begin! 

The tent for company is next.. we've just decided where it goes  &  need to build a platform, then we can at least offer guests a 'glamping experience' - if company wants to visit  but does not want to 'tent'  Minden is building a lovely new resort! There are also several tiny places very close that offer sweet tiny cabin rentals - until we can build a sweet tiny cabin for guests - it will have to do.  I would encourage all to visit  Minden - Halliburton and  Carnarvon (don't blink)  for the perfect Ontario cottage country experience - don't forget Kawartha Dairy- there is always a line up - I think that's part of the fun.   Today, it's cool - I'm listening to my favourite radio station Canoe FM & about to paint a humming bird with PINK/purple cannabis - different than usual.  Next a fish for a friends cottage.

What will you create today?  My words of advice this lovely Sunday:
Prayer changes things. 
xox 

My hands are sore, my psorisis bleeding, I barely made it in time this morning (if you know what I mean) and I feel as though I can vomit- Im' so elated I also can't sleep. Elated.
Happy.  Thrilled even. 
lol 
Friends took me for coffee & we sat at the beech looking out at Lovely Lake Simcoe, which I am about to leave. Keswick is beautiful it's easy to understand  why is has grown to what is has as fast as it has & will continue to do so - for a young family living in this house it's going to be awesome! To know kids will enjoy the pool again - makes me feel joy.  My friends reminded me of the many friends I have been blessed with over the years... now though, is no time to tear up - it's time to: BE here NOW and focus on all that is going right. 

All is going right - right now. Our son is healthy, happy & doing what he loves  surrounded with peole he really cares about & enjoys their company. Norm loves his current job - it's been the most difficult part of all of this but he is excited to work in his own shop & do what he loves without he drive to the city & else wehre every day.  I am grateful God keeps promises. We are grateful for this house that has kept us safe & shared many memmories for 26 years.

We are grateful to depart & create in our new space, under the circumstance - I'm amazed we are getting along as well as we are  & I remember - not only is it our new home but it's also our 27th Anniversary.  The same day!  The agent choose our move in date- we were so preoccupied - it took moment to register.  Talk about celebration! 
Luckily, our son will be around too!!

 "27 years of marital fucking bliss!" you will hear me say to friends - then laugh... right.
27 years of work & counting.

It is what we have found to like & respect in each other that keeps us together & yes, that is work too but the reality of all this is - I can't imagine doing it without Norm, & he - me.  
We are a team.  We do know how to 'create' well together - look at Storm - hee hee!
& we do work well together & inspire each other in many ways because we know each other so well.  Yes, he is a handy man &  I'm no dummy.  ;D
​I know it's not ever gong to be "perfect"  -perfect in a marriage, relationship does not exist - except in Gods eyes - are we all perfect - the rest of us tent to judge...  just a litte. 

Off to the forest we go - the handyman & I go to continue to chop wood & carry water, build, create & paint! Weee!  Right now tho- I can't do anything... God wan't me to nap  ;)
Sounds Good to us.

Forevergrateful cards had to be packed- I can't wait to start more.
Thanks for your patience buds.

​With TLC & THC
Georgia 

Wow - Alexa just informed me Bruce Linton has been let go.   
Bye Bye Bruce - thanks for helping change history!
I'm kinda disappointed  for whatever reason, I liked the 'story - the history & the growth...'
I'm sure he's far from retiring.  I Painted Bruce as the Willy Wonka of Weed to celebrate Legalization when it happened... I don't know if he was pleased I never heard.  
I'm guessing  - he was. lol 
NOW, he can't participate in the cannabis industry - in Canada...'     interesting.
I can imagine he would be  sad/disappointed  after all he has accomplished - I'm sure he will continue to accomplish more... else where & I wish him continued success.

Ontario - Toronto is getting more cananbis stores! The lottery again is up for people to enter to open a dispensary - good thing- SINCE  the most complained about company in the past year at the better Business Bureau in Canada was the: Ontario Cannabis Stores. Go figure.
​
Apparently Cannabis use has increased by 40%    & there is still a stigma- fine.
​It takes time...  many still say they "don't want  a co worker to know they regularly use Pot"
well I guess most people don't admit to others how much alcohol on a regular basis either. 
It's understandable - I don't know about the rest of you but I am proud & grateful for my cannabis use & never ashamed to let anyone know.   The other day meeting our lawyer - I decided to wear mascara..  after several attempts and a large sigh - I HAD to go & have a bong hit - just to get my eye to stop twitching long enough to apply  my mascara.  Stress is at an ultimo high - although it is good stress, I would NOT be packing ALL these boxes without cannabis I can tell you that.  It's not about getting high it's simply about functioning some days.  Have I started to walk down the street smoking a fatty - no - not quite. lol  

I was sad to read they rounded up over 300 Canadian Geese On Canada day to kill them- God forbid they are pooping on Golf course. WTF?  What is wrong with people? Birds are struggling- global warming - but no they are upset with the geeze - how do you think the geese feel not being able to lay their eggs in nature- because a CITY is on top of it.  I read they cover eggs with grease so they don't hatch (insert crying emoji here)   :(
They want to try to use the geese for food for the poor - which I know they can.. I know someone who does this and told me goose jerky is delicious - I'll pass.
Denver- you just lost my tourism $.

Happy Cannabis  times Canada! 
Puff Puff Puffing along!

with TLC & THC
Georgia 

It's time to change things up! 
Please note:
 
               georgiaToons@rogers.com  
                             will no longer be available to receive mail in a few days... 

Please Re Direct all mail from this day on - to:​​

   georgiatoons@gmail.com

                   Weeeeee... into the forest I go to lose my mind & find my soul!

Look at all the many different leaves in one tiny space... imagine the possibilities!
Different shapes & Different shades.
Each lovely & useful it it's own way. 
What secrets they hold for improving our world... we don't yet understand.
Just Like Humans.

Different shades & shapes..
Makes Canada what it is - Absolutely BEAUTIFUL.

                                   `Green gradients glisten graciously, God.
                                                                                            ~Me.

Happy Canada Day! 
I cannot pack all day & paint all night -  pack I must! 
It has been an enjoyable process for the most part...  I've had friend offer & help & thank you - other than 'memeories at a time when you are already emotionally & physically tired- oh well...  good & bad - I thank God for them ALL.  As usual Storm is supportive & tolerant of my outbusrts, moodswings & occassional rants & messages.. & typo's.  ;)

Like this a.m. when I found out Norm had over 20 orders for coffins & props - e mails he's not seen because he never checks his WWW!  He was shocked - one person from  Georgia  is interested in Nightmare Before Christmas prop - our last Mayor also sold to an American (shipping was not cheap) & this is Norms dream come true too..  to have some time to finally build & focus on his own props.. after the 'to Do' list is complete .  So he better learn to check his email... in his spare time.  
​I shall try to assist.

After my initial - rant- "I have to read his e mail too now!!?"  
Norm was very excited to know he's had that much interest.. not me, I know how talented he is & I do tell him all the time.  When he's not trying to push my buttons by sending a TEXT:
Please, bring me  beer.  
He knew it would get a reaction and was laughing as soon as he sent it.  
Typical Canada Day - 27 years later.  The only missing element is Storm.
​I miss his cooking too- lol  
I am grateful this Canada Day.
 
I LOVE Canada - I do think it is one of the best countries in the world with one of the best world leaders who also loves Canada.  A editorial cartoonist has been fired -Michael de Adder  in Canada for drawing a Trump toon... I would  give him a medal &  will say thank you!  IT was fantastic... right to the point.
One door closes more will open for him - Perfect editorial cartoon of  what many of us do feel is happening currently - nothing.  & he plays golf as Americans beat themselves up at protests and humans wash ashore like dead fish....   Fore!

I need to draw - I can not deny - I admitted recently - I feel a bit grumpy because I can't paint.. it's my meditation - napping more seems to do the trick - lol 
I have been sketching tho... maybe it is a good time for me to draw a few editorials..
let off a bit of steam. 

Very excited to see a new view of Canada from my living room window... Eh! 
Soon Baboon!!   -Bird chirps!  lol 
Bird is excited too!  ...the little creeper is reading over my shoulder again.
​
Happy Canada Day
With THC & TLC

Georgia 

We drove up to see the property...  now that is legally ours, to do a bit of measuring.  
Norm has to build a kennel attached to the house as soon as possible - the first day up there he has to install a dog door and add a contained covered kennel no dogs can escape or no creatures can enter, I am designing it today.... I'll be distracted with all the moving & can't stress about the girls wandering off.

We included Ginger & Poppy on our visit to see their new home - commenting before we left "I'll leave Daisy till next time in case she sees a deer & takes off".  Norm remarked   "you're pushing it George - expecting to see a deer your first day..." (snicker). I ignored him.  
When we arrived I hopped out of the truck & said let's walk our NEW driveway girls for the FIRST TIME! Wheeeeee - they quickly behind me run up ahead a few feet - the sun was shining - patches on sunlight danced on the driveway,  I couldn't have imagined a more beautiful day...  then they both stopped - I looked at the girls to see they froze & were both looking in the same direction - I looked up and there she was!
A huge beautiful Doe looking me as if to say  "Oh... hello. "  
I froze like a deer in the headlights - our eyes locked.  It was love at first sight. lol
They started to move I said "Don't dare... "   looked up & the deer was gone.
Just like that- I then realized (of course)  I had my iPad in my hands - Arrrgh.  
No matter - it was the moment.  God welcomed me home.

Or agent -when I said 'I saw my first deer!!" said soon you'll say - oh it's just another dammed deer..  (lol - I take it he's seen a few)  & warned me to be careful as he has hit a few in all the years he's been up there. Elated I said  "I can't wait to see a bear!" his reply - YES, you can... & then proceeded to tell me about the time the bear attacked his son. Cowabunga- I needed to hear it- I was already walking the woods- la de da...- Norm has no clue where I was.. lol   I will be investing in a air horn & bear spray & promised NOT to feed.  Our agent said what helped save his son was he had the  common sense (while a bear was biting him) to push his truck alarm & frightened the bear - He is lucky to be alive from what I heard. So, no - I won't be encouraging any bears to pose for a portrait.

Norm & I are both tired- Norm more so - on top of things he rescued 2 baby -viscous  behaving- raccoons off the roof, they look yesterday like they were going to pass out from heat. look thin & dehydrated  -I've seen them a week- no mom in sight. ;(  I ffed them- they ate it all- bananas, smoked salmon (all I had at the time) lol - almond butter & cherries! All the food was gone this morning- I'm waiting for animal control to Pick them up.

It's time to pack!! Want to see my backyard? A few photos below - we need to build a new deck and spruce it up a bit - nothing we can't handle- Oh - where to hand my tiki?? 
All I could think about was that deer - & NOW anytime that stress anxiety kicks in b-I think of that deer waiting to welcome me home  join me for coffee.  I painted it - I had too - just a small one- for me to remember that moment - God sent the perfect welcome wagon.

Dreams come true-  have faith.

With TLC & THC Georgia 

Next the trash pandas portrait & free coloring sheet to DL, found while packing.
​

o.k.... it's  happened - we are.... EXCITED! It has sunk in and it is paid for. Forward!
Cowabunga!!! Dreams come true.  We have downsized- our new home is smaller- big enough - downsized but living large on a piece of land surrounded by trees - we plan on making trails through the property and placing a cabin/shack in the woods for friends to visit-  a little off grid glamping! Weeeee.

We already have friends where we are moving -  long time buds of us both- how cool is that? 
The past few months have been filled with house hunting and conversation & some arguing too - mostly between Norm and I and as to what our future direction would be.  We were very close to going in different directions but this house is what we both have been looking for & Norm gets to build his own shop from the ground up - I know if anyone can - he can. 
Not much needs done to the actual house - we have a fireplace to figure out and we are already designing the new deck for across the front of the house!

The dog kennel (top priority) will be built first.  Attached to the back of the house - where they can go out through the dog door to do their business or just check outside - a fence around this property - is not an option we could afford or desire- I don't want to keep the deer out - just the dogs in... I already KNOW training will start the first day we move in- I promised God- I needed a long driveway to throw the ball and walk the dogs everyday - no humans in our way, I can't believe how much I have thought of my girls while house hunting ... my family.  This place is as much for them as it is for us - & yes I will be adding to our family - one more another bigger one.   I've ben walking around crying - elated at the prospects that await - we purchased a prospector :) the house has  only 2 bedrooms - our guests will have their own place to stay - complete with wood stove. 

I mentioned on IG about not offering alcohol to our guests, I have issues with alcohol as some are aware. Living in the middle of nowhere when guests visit, I couldn't and won't start to stress about people driving impaired. I'm too familiar with those consequences due to the past and others in my life & I will NOT encourage it.  Norm and I rarely drink - we might  have the occasional craft beer - glass of wine but it's just as easy for us to pass' - we had champagne to toast our new home and both complained it gave us a slight headache- we don't drink anymore - so why have it?  Why offer poison to people I care for  & that is a fact.  That being said - there is a cute little craft  brewery/restaurant not far from our new home, I'm sure we will be visiting. Will I have a craft beer or A glass of wine to offer during dinner - perhaps...  BUT I'm done with drunks. I have no issues with people who have a drink or two - those who can moderate & control- Bravo..    Regrettably, past experience has proven many I'm familiar with do NOT know when to stop - over indulge  & in many cases become abusive, depressed & depressing and nasty.  ​I will not allow this to happen anymore - if you want to get drunk - please, do not visit.
 
If you want to come up - digital detox, learn how to paint, be surrounded by nature, hike trails, look for mushrooms.. look for deer- nature, help Norm chop wood & carry water- to your tent...  lol Please do!  Dogs will be welcome too!   P.s not a fan TV either- so that won't be happening - much. Weeee - maybe I won't have many human visitors with my "house rules" ...  I have my girls, Bird, painting & Norm - I'm going to be busy.    
Amen.

OH! - Did I tell you we have a sauna!? I just researched & was over the moon to learn: Saunas help with arthritis pain  - detox our bodies of nasty crap- help with STRESS & are known for REDUCING psoriasis - HOLY - I have a sauna!
Bring your own towel.  Wheeeeee!  *btw... alcohol & the sauna - bad idea. 

Thank you God!
Jesus - I look forward to our forest conversations & exploration.

With TLC & THC 
​Georgia

While packing I've discovered a program - 'Portrait artist competition UK' - I'm glued, watching - 3 different artist enter to paint a portrait of someone famous...  incredibly versatile on styles & mediums, fast, creative - it's inspired me to paint more people. 

Many of the artists for practice paint themselves, not because we love our own reflection but because - it's free & easy... well easy for some.  I for one do not enjoy looking at myself in the mirror for long periods of time- once I remember and focus at what I am doing - I get past vanity & on to learning & painting. Vincent VanGogh painted himself many times... a painted journal - the original selfie king.   Today being slightly  grumpy - needing to paint, my hands are sore from all the packing & yes, I'm mentally exhausted - to think of 'what to paint' - forget it, what I decided was start a mini journal of portraits ONLY  most dont take longer that 15 mins., - all who will sit... but I will sit for me first - because it's easy, fast & free. I'll TRY for one a day!

Problem is...   if people go by 'my self portraits - LOL - they won't think I'm any good. I am what I am... as a matter of fact I thought this particular portrait is pretty accurate.
I'm pleased.                    Our face has little to do with our abilities.  

My ego is the asshole that occasionally reminds me about my "ugly face"... 
- not for most peoples  standards anyhow, then I am reminded thankfully - child of God you were created to create & Jesus loves me. hee hee I like saying it, I say it out loud to my girls all the time.  Gratefully, I'm not overly concerned about other peoples standards any longer..   My face is in twitchmode big time... stress, moving, $$$, meeting strangers, having them come through your private home - daunting. I can't imagine hoarders going through this... I'm getting nothing but positive feedback and still find it's stressful- the hermit in me is not not happy- I've had to step out of my comfort zone too many times lately and I'm ready to embrace the forest with each passing moment.  Packing is waiting.

This is me. This is a good first self portrait - I caught me.
If you do like ME as I am - thank you... I am trying.
If you don't like me - what are YOU doing here?  Creeper.....   lol
 
Boxes to pack.. 
with TLC & THC
​Georgia
​

Storm showed up yesterday (unexpected- we know how busy he is) complete with Tomahawk, special salt, pepper, potatoes & organic Arrugla - craft Raspberry beer in a cool artsy can for us to enjoy -we joked about  cananbis edible 'regulatons'  as we cheered'.
It's all the news - Oct is the date but by Christmas - watch out- Santas has stockings to stuff!
I will have several Chrismas cards available on Forever Grateful soon.  I'm excited! 
Many alcoholic beverages now infused with cananbis are going to be available & here is where I guess I am o.k. with the limit being so low..  for those NOT use to cananbis- it is ALCOHOL added to the mix' that concerns me regarding  safety. PLEASE drink responsibly  Cheers - I will try a couple - but not being a fan of alcohol - will stick with the joint, bong & edibles! Nom Nom!

I  already have a rule at the new house.. no booze.
No alcohol - I won't be serving it - other than perhaps A glass of wine  or A beer  - with a great meal... I would never forgive myself knowing someone I care for left my home - impaired. It's a long drive.  Been there done that -  Alcohol has been the destroyer of many (too many)  days in my life - either due to others being under the influence or myself.  Those days are done. Norm does not drink now, why start?
He has a to do list longer than the driveway already!
Weeeeeeeee...    & lifetime to do it.

I've actaully have been refraining from feeling elated, that shit with the bank - talk about buzzkill.  BE HERE NOW.     Fine.. until I get the keys - I paint.
I painted this for a gift for the woman who is currently in the home. Last night during dinner  I admitted to the guys...  "I think we even LOOK alike!" & Norm choked- "YOU do! I thought so too!"  I did not even look at the kitchen - (speaks volumes) I was so - 'stunned' at how much that house looked & felt like me - all the masks, art, buddhas, prayer- I can't wait to PAINT.  Norm has to build right outside my studio a deck across the back of the house :) (we are both excited) I will have him add an outdoor easle - big enought to hold HUGE boards to paint- like my friend Bonnie does (check out her work! I love it)  I can't begin to tell you how excited I am knowing I am moving up here - with birds, trees & peace - to paint. God promised.
Every obstacle shall be removed!  Weeeee! 

Packing up the office today - I will miss this amazing office that has the one full custom built in wall (wish I could take it with me - I take the handman instead ;))
All who have seen the house are amazed with Norms craftmanship - not me.. too bad it took 26 years. Better late than never! Amen.

Just imagine what we create together next! 
O - is for OFFICE   ;)

I love this song....   SAVE us ALL      Tracy Chapman       

With TLC & THC 
​Georgia 

Inside of card:
                          Rest is a luxury few can afford & fewer appreciate.  ~Me.

I made this for a friend who is about tot retire!  My girlfriend has worked hard her entire life- as a teacher.. and this is her last year- in a few months she is done! WoooooHoooo! 
I couldn't be happier for her.  I know though - she is truly far from retirement.. she has parents that are now dealing with issues associated with age,  young adult children  - that we never stop stressing over & caring about -a husband and duties that won't end,  she is far for retiring..  she won't be plopping herself infront of any TV eating bonbons all day.
A womans work is never done.

This past week was emotional  & stress filled -  a FUCKING important lesson as usual was learned the hard way.  We went from being elated about our new home to days later being told the bank "miscalculated" only by  a small amount... $400,000.   That's right - a bank employee made an error & yes, we are all human..  but did not inform us of such error - we were signing legal contracts & house hunting under false pretences.. We went from being approved to not being approved ? & no one told us.  It made NO sense to anyone as we do not currently have a mortgage - my dream home - where I have mentally moved in  & decided where to place my easel & started painting - lol - was gone..  I cried  the entire day - what a mind fuck this is..   After my pity party where only the girls and I attended.. suffering from a nasty headache I thought -- how dare I  cry over a 'house' when so few even have a bed, reality kicked in  & so did a little anger.
Time to Take control of this situation instead of crying about it & it controlling me.   

WTF... I tired to get in touch with someone.  TRIED' being the key word- NOPE - no such luck.. when I TRIED to call someone I was told - You can't speak to anyone - there is NO one to complain to  per-say ...  only the 'branch manager' -  all she kept saying was:
I was not there I did not witness it...   - well, isn't that fucking special, I thought to myself.
Trying to find out what the fuck went wrong!? Here is what I learned -  apparently the RBC can 'miscalculate  - by $400,000 but God forbid I say...
                                       'are you fucking kidding' me!?  on the PHONE!
'CLICK.'  

WOW. I was silly enough to try again... thinking Georgia - stay calm.. blah blah blah  blah blah... from them   Me: $400,00o! is no fuckng minor MISCALCU..."  CLICK
          $400,00O - You tell me how you would feel, boxes packed- house bought.

Did I get an apology - No...  & suddenly  a little denial entered the conversation.  
Not appreciated. 
Not only did they ignore the issue, as if no wrong was done... BUT they did focus on my swearing stating: 'I should treat them with respect'..  I then asked them to explain  how respectful it was to make a $400,00o fucking mistake & not even have the decency to inform us.   Speechless is the word then that comes to mind.
A small miscalculation for them a big mental breakdown for me, a big dose of fucking stress WE did not need OR deserve.

Had we signed a contract we couldn't get out of under false pretences  - would the bank have paid for their miscalculation?  I doubt it.  We opened the account the day we bought this house - it was a tiny office & I quickly became friends with a few of the ladies whom work there still - the service amazing.  Now they have moved, are much bigger, fancier - but the service....   $400,000 "miscalculation" is no fucking tiny mistake, not to us.
​
Click.

Stress - yikes.. Rest is what I need NOW - I admit - it knocked me out physically & mentally - but just for a couple of days - tomorrow  is a new day & I am excited for it....
it is just a house...  just a mistake - Focus on the deer you will paint.  
All 'apparently, has been resolved.

​The Science of Swearing - just one more way men are taken seriously & women thought trashy - educate yourself & others - because when someone makes  $400,000 mistake...      I guarantee you - you will swear.

   27 years.. no more than numbers.   

With TLC & THC 
Georgia 


To see my Father's Day contribution - head over to Forever Grateful Greetings!