Oh Canada... what's happening? Just For laughs is Canadian Tradition, for as long as I remember there has been a 'just for laughs festival' & it is as it states - just for laughs! & It has been cancelled... at a time when Canadians need more to laugh about, not less. 'Victor has been the mascot and his big bold greenness & massive smile -made us smile for a long time .. Victor is crying today, as are too many comedians. I've known many comedians & have always thought it sad- most feel they won't make it "big' unless they leave Canada, example - Jim Carey (one of many) & it's usually true. It's going to be harder now, one less venue for our funniest to express themselves. Victor is sobbing. I hope it's just temporary and it returns because Canadians NEED to laugh, more than ever. Victors background is a bold Gold as you can tell. A quick chat about metallic paint experience! I have tried several there are MANY to choose from in all price ranges and below is my account with a couple so you can decide the direction you might want to do. I do not remember exactly what price I paid for some of these only approximately, I'll include the name if you want to look them up & remember: if anywhere but Canada - you'll probably have a lower price (Thanks J.T.). 2 were purchased directly from the company, another DeSerres (Canadian art supplies -good prices) and Amazon. 1. The first pallet you see what the lowest Ive paid -about $10 for the pale which I used for a while and have had for over 7 years... It's by Yasutomo. There is little paint in tiny pans but a nice variety of shades, a fun introduction but as vibrant' as I hope for -I still use them for playing with ideas in my sketch books or have handy if teaching others and don't want to use my good stuff - it is a fine set to start with, terrific for beginners & kids. DeSerres
2. Komorebi (2 sets) rectangle pans with a lot of paint! I've had this other set also about 7 years and used it a lot -the gold lovely - it's what I used on Victor and I use these for backgrounds mostly, the second set I've not even opened -classic metallic -the pan size is large and it lasts a long way. DeSerres -*note- as they were purchased a while back they might no longer be available at DeSerres. 3. I wanted to include the image of these brushes, mostly for fine line& detail with my metallic paint, especially my last set-they give a beautiful delicate fine line and hold a nice amount of paint, I use them for all fine hair/fur in my paintings. 4.& 5. Artistro -I bought this set last year off Amazon and have been very pleased -the 6 chameleon colours are very cool! I like one in particular so much 'magic' I'm going to try to purchase it on its own, I love how the coluor dramatically changes in light from deep purple to bright silver about $23. I recommend this set for anyone it covers well on black & white. 6. Beam Paints - Beam is Canadian and handmade goodness, it is a higher end paint and I only have the gold metallic' but it's by far one of the best quality and covering 'gold I've tried. The hole Canadian thing with paint made and put in wood slices I also like - creative, functional, decorative packaging. Im not sure of individual prices but it is more expensive -my set cost close to $100. This set I'd gift to others in other countries, I love shopping & sharing Canadian. Go see (on the www.) the GreatLakes pine pallet! They also make sampler/travel cards that last a lot longer than you think. These paints are a treat. 7. Windsor Newton -Silver and gold -I've tried both and flew through the gold. Good quality paint (my preferred gouache) lasts a long time- when your tube is almost empty -do yourself a favour and squeeze it all into some container (like I have) you can keep and re hydrate it no problems, the problem is-IF/when it gets too dry in the tube-good luck getting it out, you may as well toss it. It's anywhere from $10 - $23 a tube. I do with is ALL W & N gouache now as too many times it's friend I the tubes. 8.Lisilinnka this paint has been my most expensive purchase to date, I am (mostly) very happy with it as it is top quality lovely vibrant paint. With one drop I'm amazed at the consistency & coverage, it will probably be my last purchase as it will last a while. The pans are a nice size, the packaging lovely (as previously mentioned) and the details so far have been inspiring & encouraging to play more'. I did order the Prism and after much trial and asking others their opinion -it appears I was sent the wrong paint 'stardust', I'm in the process of correcting this as the one pan was $46. (more Canadian) and I want what I ordered, I'll keep you posted*. Other than the wrong paint - this set is perfect, they do have a few more colours I'll consider (deep purples and greens) as so far this is the best quality & coverage. * I contacted the Company, they apologized for the error and are sending me the correct paint a..s.a.p & I can keep the stardust. Terrific paint & customer service. I hope that helps... Have you tried some metallic paint? Let me know what your favourite is! Created to create! Time to paint!! 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. Just a curious chimp & me, playing with painting backgrounds. 8 x 8 on Gouache
We watched Adam Sandler in Spaceman - I enjoyed it, it's getting mixed reviews but I thought it was - thought provoking & well done. So expressive is his travelling companion - especially the eyes - the animation is fantastic - is it even called animation, probably not, I guess it's CGI. One word description: Deep. What an actor he's turned out to be - wonderful in all genre - from silly to serious, he is an impressive human. For decades he's entertained us proving himself to be creative, talented, intelligent, resourceful and ambitious... I look forward to all he creates. I think I'll paint that creature. Created to create Enjoy this day The Lord has made. This handsome kitty is inspired by a photo off instagram of a friends cat. The cannabis & fur has delicate dabs of metallic paint, mostly noticeable in the bowtie but photos and scanning will never display it as it is on paper. I made the mistake of leaving this on my desk, my own cat spilled a lot of water & the glitter lifted off, interestingly enough it hardly effected the gouache. My cat has a thing for water, not sure what I'll do to try to keep him off my desk, no point being angry with him as he is not aware of the aggravation he is causing, and he's adorable.
I was reading about immigration & how many who come are leaving.. it explained how in their countries Canada Propaganda shows only the lovely side of Canada- doesn't everything though? Enticing strangers with promises of owning the dream- or fantasy is more like it. Many come with their life saving in hopes of finding a better life and job and soon realize - it is out of reach' because EVERYTHING is so expensive here, (as you are aware) & by the time they pay rent, utilities, taxes, personal expenses, transportation, food - they have very little left over for fun (like most Canadians) and are left feeling always exhausted - sound familiar? Any 'dream' of owning a home in Canada is soon realized as exactly that - a dream. Once they run out of money they often return 'defeated and poorer' than when they started... & embarrassed to return home. At least at 'home' they can afford to live, eat and not endure -30 with the windchill. It's a problem though. Canada is not what we think it is or was... one only has to read this blog to know I love Canada & being Canadian but the past decade in particular - Canada had changed & Trudeau seems to be promising - & that's it. Even proud Canadians have to face facts - things are getting out of control - just visit the many tent cities popping up, go ask the food banks -how's it going? I'll vote conservative next but I don't expect much change, other than faces. Canada appears a rich happy country but it's a façade' - Canada is a country of people in debt, struggling & tired... Over worked and underpaid. With the immigrants in particular, employers KNOW there's many to follow and replace someone for a more affordable substitution & they do. Canadians are leaving too... why stay when you see the direction things are going? House prices will ONLY continue to rise, you are in denial if you think otherwise. Why pay $3,000.000 million for a townhouse here when you can buy a frigging villa someplace warm and afford to eat? & educated professionals are leaving too - too many taxes, overpriced everything, low paying jobs. Why stay in a country that has proven if we don't behave' (to their wishes) & speak up (peacefully) about it - you can be denied access to YOUR own bank account & thrown in jail & trampled by police horses - until proven innocent. Not for an emergency reasons or justification but to prove a point & that, Trudeau did. Dr.s and professionals are leaving our already struggling system along with the immigrants. Like it or not... that's not good for Canada. & - AND lets not forget control, not letting us read what we want, watch what we want or say' (ask Jordan Peterson) what we feel.. more laws with more control for the government and less freedoms for Canadians. Is Trudea to blame? No. WE ARE for allowing it to progress as it has, we are -for enabling him & his like minded... who are obviously VERY out of touch with what actual daily LIFE is for the average Canadians - not flying to Jamaica for a vacation on the tax payers expense. Like politicians that tell Canadians, 'just stop your Disney subscription if struggling...' or the CEO telling Canadians to 'have cereal for dinner' to save money! Boy oh boy - easy to say as they jet set and dine in 5 star Michelin restaurants around the world. Don't want immigrants coming to Canada? Careful what you wish for. They are a huge percentage of the work FORCE keeping Canada running somewhat smoothly. Thank you for your service. Who's ready to Leap into March? To leap into spring!? ...Melted snow and muddy paws? We are.
What will you do today with this EXTRA day we've been given? Who's looking forward to warmer days? It's a chilly one today! While painting this, I kid you not.. I watched it pour rain (yay - melting the snow) then it hailed, snowed and ended with a blizzard as it got dark.. March is coming in like a lion. This painting has glitter on it, hard to distinguish when scanned or photographed. I think, Tigger is also now 'open domaine' -the same time as Steam Boat Willies due date was up... I'm not positive, I read a few articles on the topic at the time. Spring is around the corner only a couple of weeks away! Happy 'Leap Day' in this Leap year! Created to create All that glitters is not gold... but it could be metallic paint! Weee - I have new paint & it's exciting.. a new toy to play with and explore. I decided to treat myself to a very nice paint for my birthday (it arrived a week early & I was not waiting, the paint is from https://lisilinka.com. Made in Germany. First I'll add the paint is expensive (more so than most) but after watching demonstrations on social media and the site and reading positive reviews I went for it -deciding on the set Holo-Flowers... deciding what set to choose was difficult - another I like is Northern Lights, I also purchased Prism for $45. a single pan & was sent for free Hazel which was nice, since it's another full size pan -*that being said even with free shipping - when it arrived here I was charged another $40. for duty! Yeah Canada.... they will take our money every way they can. It's here so.. I cleaned my desk and opened the paint!
The colours are lovely & the quality is as promised, I used the swatch cards provided -they dry even better than when applied with fantastic coverage. Watered down - the amount of glitter that swirls still was impressive - it will take some practice to master the level of glitter to apply. The Prism is exactly what I expected and changes colour when the light hits it, just using it I find relaxing, watching all the glitter swirl - Today Im using the one colour to paint an entire painting.... playing with is the fastest way to learn - nothing too serious yet'. Pleased with the paint - the packaging is equally impressive, albeit it can first appear excessive' - it's as though it was created for my hands! I can grasp & hold the containers & they all have magnets in them so they snap' open and closed very easily. Individual paint pans also have magnets so you could customize your own. They won't fall out of your paint holders -that's happened to everyone (no doubts) who's used water colour paint pans'. Packaging is attractive & my creative side thinks they can probably be used & recycled easily. The paint also came with a tiny water dropper -as you only need one drop, I do find it a bit difficult with arthritis but that's fine as I have several paint droppers called Pipettes' (from DeSerres). From the selection cards provided -I quickly calculated: a FULL set of these paints would cost about $3,000. I will probably add a few more shades... I really like Polar Night, Cranberry & Indian summer is also lovely, easy to choose from all the vibrant selections! About these Pipettes... My cat is obsessed and jumps on my desk at night (grrrr) and steals them! He also chews them and destroys them - last night I forgot to put my art away - a sweet tiny container garden painting' was destroyed by water from a cat stealing Pipettes. I put drops of rosemary on them now so if he takes one, hopefully he won't like the taste and leave them alone. He already knows better than to jump on my desk during the day. The paint will probably be used more for hi-lighting and accent details, it's raining and foggy - a great day to paint & explore new ideas and mediums. Grateful to God & the Universe for this new day of discovery! 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. Frog on a log' or King of the puddle'. gouache on black 8 x 8
Sitting high surveying his domaine, I think he needs a tiny twig crown. I am missing frogs right about now. There's always tiny ones in the garden, a visit from a big one occasionally draws all our attention. This branch that juts out - distracted me the entire time I painted it. I stuck it in at the last minute to add the snail but regretted it later. It happens sometimes & since theses are 'in-between' paintings I don't stress over them too much as they are still lessons all the same - lessons what NOT to do next time. The background has a metallic glitter purple that are hard to photograph, the funky background was my favourite part. Metallic paint, not only is is beautiful but it's mesmerizing to work with and an added touch of 'shimmering is entertaining in itself. I preferred the time-lapse to the painting -lol. Time-lapse is a teaching tool in itself, more on that soon. Before I start my canvas.. still debating on the background colour, I'm going to glance through a few Disney Art books I have, perhaps with Snow White playing in the background as the backgrounds are fantastic! It's mental creative stimulation. A pre work out work out for this painting. I want it to have a joyful feel'... something with enough details that you have to take time to see things, a creative closeup. Do your dogs eat fruit? My dogs like dried Mango, not Ginger - she only likes fattening stuff like chicken skin, lasagna, roast beast... no mango for her. Sometimes they eat bananas, blue berries and Daisy loves cherries. Broccoli, carrots, apples, brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes, celery - (all pan roasted) they eat it all. I feel bad for dogs who only get kibble. They know what they want, Poppy loves broccoli but is not too fond of carrots. Show yourself some love today by eating naturally, today will be fruit, walnuts, a banana, frozen mandarins - nothing that needs cooked! & water & cranberry juice. A break from baked and fried for me usually once a week, feels wonderful & refreshing. Give your pets a taste too. Everybody also likes to nibble on a little popcorn from time time. Are you planning anything special for the Year of The Dragon on Saturday? Created to create February! What's not to love? This month I focus on LOVE - all sorts of love, so even those who are not in a 'loving relationship' can partake in the festivity's. What's especially loving this month? We get an extra day to LOVE all of God's Glory! I think it should be mandatory that 'Leap days' are a day of rest. Perfect timing for the colder months, many probably feeling a bit run down -a day of rest including no cellphones for a TRUE rest for our minds too. Put in your work request for a day of rest : Contact Justin Trudeau for our mandatory holiday on a Leap day, today. They stopped people from accessing bank accounts fast enough, it shouldn't take long to get a day of rest, every 4 years. Mental health issues are at Emergency levels currently, in Canada. One extra day to snuggle with & paint the dogs - I love leap Years.
I took this photo of these 3 all looking at me, with love in their squinty eye(s), well, I think the cat was jealous of not being in the basket. At first Ginger would share the basket with the cat, now- she won't, she'd rather sleep on the floor than with Smokey, Poppy too. I have seen the cat snuggling up with Daisy & Arrow so it's just the small dogs. The day was bright with blue sunshine - so much it was a bit difficult to paint. The sun is low and crosses my art, making it difficult to see how he colour is going on and we all sat squinting & enjoying every second of it. Yay Sunshine - Love it! Painting Poppy, I became painfully aware of the grey on that tiny head, I love Poppy & that is what I'll focus on, how much I love that tiny grey face and those sweet little paws and that cute little chatting noise she makes when she wants my attention. 'Love is a dog or 3, a cat or 2 too... A bird, lizard, gecko, fish, hamster, rat, spider... the possibility to love, is endless. Of course we are asked to Love Each Other as Jesus love us. Ginger remains us, both eyes open with focus. Have a creative day - show yourself some love, drink enough water. The Seeker. gouache on black 8 x 8
What do you actively seek? You will find it... like it or not. Seek and you will find. This handsome frog is a mycologist seeking more than mushroom... he seeks Peace, Love & Hope. He will find them, Jesus promised. The trick it to seek 'it' passionately, not as a side hobby to pursue occasionally. 'It' - is what ever your heart desires. This might also lead to a "careful for what you wish for" moment. Different times in my life I did seek different things... only one ever made me feel LOVED like nothing else could... Seek God. I can't convince anyone, or promise anyone - I can only share my own experience. God keeps me going. Seek Ultimate Love? Seek God. Seek Peace? Seek God. Seek Goodness? Seek God. Created to Create & Seek God! That's why we are here. Daisy Dog gouache on watercolour 8 x 8
I did not forget Daisy dog.. our elder 15. What good girl she is. She barks the most & doesn't like to share toys but other than that she's been a blessings, as are all dogs. Daisy has to go' sometimes at night, she goes in the bathroom on the pads placed for the tiny dogs, what good girl. We've noticed when she does, the pads are now almost folded ups over what ever was dumped'... It's the cat! lol. Smokey also shares Daisys food every night. Daisy allows this, why I'm not sure... what a good girl. Daisy is double digits', Poppy will be soon. Double digits has its privilege. She knows she's not going to get into trouble and pushes it some days. That's o.k., as I'd rather have Daisy pushing limits instead of Daisy pushing up daisys. This drawing/cartoon had indeed captured her personality, she's always sitting like a lady with her paws crossed. Daisy loves to sit in the rain & snow, often we have to call her in as she gets covered & doesn't seem to mind at all. I love Daisy. Blessed are you Lord our God - creator of dogs. Thank you. Creator of Dogs! Gouache on watercolour 8 x 8
I mentioned I was painting a prayer but it's more of a 'ThankYou!' Blessed are you Lord our God! Creator or dogs! Dogs - I love them & they love me. Dogs comfort us, keep us active, entertain & LOVE. My girls just want -Me. To be with me, snuggle with me, follow me, adventure with me, play with me and comfort me. This morning it's cold - I moved from bed to the sofa to read and before I even notice, all have joined me, including the cat, who believes he is a dog. Just painting this was a joy filled meditation, sitting in my tiny studio, looking at ALL the snow... while on my mind, imagined us on another adventure in the woods - we warmed right up. I pray, I thank God enough for all that is provided but mostly - dogs. I'd be lost without Dog & God. Gifts from above, sent with love. It's too cold, even the big dogs only go out for a few moments - pee, survey & back in with me. I didn't add Daisy so she's getting her own painting! Another 'Blessed are you...' is on my desk too. What's MOST important to you? What/who are you thankful for? My relationship with God & Jesus is where I'm at & thrilled to BE. I put LOVE for my creator in all my creations. How exciting it is to finally create for the only one that matters. Thank you!! Thank you for dogs! Thank you for two hands - still able to hold and maneuver a brush, thank you for eyesight allowing me the joy of painting and expressing my love for you. Thank you! 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. 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. Happy New Year 2024! Are you sill breathing? Give Thanks! It's that simple.
Life (2023) has taught us all - how fleeting it can be. I was reading about all who died this past year and never can I remember so many younger people. We get it when someone in their 70's dies but many younger passed away as well, from all sorts of reasons. It makes me appreciate those still here, I understand, when your times up - it's up. Thy Will Be Done. We can learn along the way things that 'might' increase our chances of a long healthy, productive life. I didn't say Happy because it's not about 'happy'. Life is about lessons - all lessons God will have us learn - all bringing us closer to God. Read your Bible for the best 'Instruction to Fruitful, loving Life - Best Book available. I'm excited for 2024 - as excited as I am every morning. This past week (weather related) I've been in terrible pain, more than usual, it's been difficult to walk without pain forcing me to rest. How many don't have the luxury of resting'. Instead of letting it overwhelm, see it as a sign to read (exercise the brain), rest and eat healthy... the last thing one needs with sore feet is extra weight. Sitting around feeling sorry for oneself is also not going to help - if anything it will bring you deeper into a depression. No more alcohol, no junk & little sugar- that being said I'm making those mints' we use to have as kids -the pastel pink, green and white mints -the recipe looks easy and it's nice to have a treat' available when the urge kicks in. I'll share the recipe if they turn out - heehee. I'm sure when it finally snows or warmer weather arrives again, the pain will subside. Having sore feet makes me want to explore the forest - not give up. Either way, for my own "best start' to this new year, I painted my homeboy (above) & will enjoy The Word of God this morning, Forever inspiring - daily, it's what is important to me, to help me live the best life possible, be the best version of myself... surrounded by Love for my & by my Creator. I'm excited to paint today - Steam Boat Willy, today I'll create my own fun. Storm is cooking a terrific dinner (as he always does), Norms creating in the shop. The dogs, cat & I will snuggle, play and chase the ball a few times - a perfect start to the new year. I hope 2024 brings you all your heart desires! Give thanks for every day & everyone Thank you for visiting - I plan on trying to teach some painting/drawing lessons this year to help those who wish to bring out their creative side - as we are all: Created to Create! Happy New year!! snow dogs 7 x 7 gouache on watercolour paper.
Do you want to build a snowman? No, but snow dogs -yes! Well there's not enough snow for anything currently, it's on the way I am sure, until then I'll build snow dogs with paint. This painting pleased me when finished. I captured the girls identity simply by using a few tiny details about each, Ginger looks the sweetest albeit a chubby little snow dog. Arrow got the carrot for her long pointy nose. Poppy big coal eyes Daily dog a big red bow a she likes to be the "pretty girl". Painting it too was a pleasure. I recorded a time-lapse, (you can see on my Instagram Georgia.Toons) and started by painting the space all blue, this helped me create the shadows by applying a bold white in layers, working my way around the image as the white dried before reapplying with the hi lights last. The key is to wait until layers dry in between - patience, or your image can become muddy' in appearance. I might paint a snow kitty' as I forgot to add mine to this image. We're 1/2 way to Christmas, no decorations are up but I feel slightly festive all the same. Christmas shopping is done and dinner is being planned, it will be small but merry - I was speaking to some others who have company coming - 35 for dinner! WOW - that's a full house... I can't even. When I was kid, we had big family celebrations that were lots of fun, I also enjoy our more intimate dinners now. The only little ones' have four legs and are easy to please with the gift of a new ball & stuffed toy. I have paint, paper/canvas and 'time' to use them, I am surrounded by 'Christmas Trees' - over 30 feet tall, I don't need to put up something plastic, I just look out the window. The decorations are the sunshine, snow, birds, & pinecones. I need nothing from Santa. Be joyful as it is a time to remember & celebrate the Birth of our KING! zen kitties.. 8 x 8 gouache on white
Kittens chilling on mushrooms. I don't know if black kittens are the easiest or most difficult to paint, these 3 were easy. Still. - Michael J. Fox documentary was interesting and empowering. He has/had quite the extreme career -he reached the highest of high as an actor, he worked very hard to accomplish his level. Still, details his journey with Parkinson disease as well, more or less ending his career prematurely. Walk a mile in his shoes' takes on a whole new meaning. There seems to be a trend of documentaries with actors, now older - reflecting on past highs and lows', like Sylvester Stallone, who can't seem to let go, living in the past... surrounded by images and statues of himself. Or Arnold, who's documentary has him completely alone in a huge empty house reminiscing about days gone by, lies that led to his family dissolving. Michael J Fox is the most impressive of them all, his struggles very real, not self inflicted issues with alcohol abuse (although it appears prevalent with them all at some point in their lives), womanizing. It was refreshing & eye opening & has helped many across the globe - raising awareness & funds for Parkinson disease. Noted, he still has his family surrounding and loving him, acting was fun'... but I'm guessing the Parkinson is the real challenge in his life. It left me feeling hopeful for him and his continuing story, far from a tale of self pity I felt watching the other two. Michael J. Fox is a real life hero, leading by example. I watched it on apple. Elvis on Netflix now, wow... I felt bad for Elvis. I was/am a fan. he had everything, talent, looks, moves, charm.. too bad he had a lying parasite for a manager. What a lesson, all that money, fame - everything.. and he appeared to be one of the saddest/lonliest humans on the planet. Money is nothing... faith in God is everything. Everything is a lesson God would have us learn. I'm sure he's in heaven belting out the gospel tunes! Everyone teaches and teaches all the time. For sharing their lives, talents and lessons I'm grateful. Ironically, I wouldn't trade places with any of them, their stories educate and remind; careful what you wish for. As well as: Money can not buy happiness. Created to create. Where paths cross. This is my driveway, I walked up with the dogs the other day to see a deer grazing. I saw the deer then turned so the dogs did not chase after it. Did you know female deer can have antlers? It's deer hunting season, I make sure the dogs are in dusk & dawn to make sure they don't case deer who are already 'skittish'.
The day we signed papers on this place a deer appeared at the end of the driveway to welcome me, since then I've seen a few on the property, mostly on trail cameras and on the driveway. I feel blessed with every witness of these creatures. There's someone complaining in the paper lately about 'feeding the deer', as it causes problems for them - the deer eat their landscaping... forgetting - we are the problem, living in their home. I researched what plants to plant that deer are not fond of, rock placement.. dogs. there all sorts of deer deterrent. Some people who move up here from the city, complain about the deer, not realizing how much wildlife contributes to the community and being a tourist' area - tourism. I love seeing deer on peoples lawns and in the woods. Deer is also food for many, & with rising food prices, I bet a lot more wish they had deer in their yards'. If from the city and you don't like the deer - perhaps you prefer city life, they were here before us. I like the deer, I'm pleased to see & read when people feed the deer. With what's happening around the world - it's preposterous anyone even thinks to complain about deer eating plants. They also addressed deer ticks - which is laughable as deer ticks are also squirrel, chipmunk, beaver, fisher, moose, owl... ticks. Rats with ticks are a bigger problem than deer with ticks. Read about New Yorks current problem with rats taking over.. much more serious than deer munching on plants. Ticks too are a part of wildlife, omitting deer will not omit the tick. Deer causing car accidents is always addressed.. I'm not sure what to say, perhaps take caution when driving. The deer is not crossing the road as much as the road is crossing the forest. I knew of someone who's mom died from a deer hitting their vehicle that was in Georgina.. what are the odds? Is the answer to remove all deer? I'm grateful for each tree, every deer and every path - All paths lead to Jesus. It is on a path surrounded by forest, deer, bear, birds that I feel closest to Jesus. That being said - it is deer hunting season and I'll avoid the woods for a few. I wrote the other day - knowledge is power.. but it's not - Wisdom is power, knowledge isn't much if you don't know what to do with it. How we use what we know, is wisdom. I'm wise enough to understand the deer are here where they belong, instead of cursing them and wanting to eliminate them, we should give thanks we are still blessed and surrounded by Gods creations. Psalm 42:1 1As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. created to create |