Okay... I have to admit it.

I have never been to the Royal Canadian Mint. You know. The place that MAKES MONEY for nearly half the countries around the world. The beautiful building that was used in the last scene of the 2005 movie "The Constant Gardener".

Yep... never been there. Even though it's been nearly in my backyard since 1976.

A mere stone's throw from my home (although, if I threw a stone I would surely be in trouble --that's alotta glass windows) and I had never even stepped foot inside.

Until Friday that is.


With Canada Day fast approaching, and this being the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, I wanted to get my hands on a few commemorative Toonies that were on sale. So I got off my butt and played "Tourist", snapping photos of

a Mountie Moose:


Olympic medals:


Lush gardens and pools inside the foyer:


Antique artifacts:

and outdoor beauty:


with Canada Geese making an official appearance of course:


And while I was there, I made sure to pick up a few rolls of pennies; struck for only 4 months, the 2012 penny will be our last.


It was fun alright.


And it only took me 36 years to travel a few blocks to get there.

Sure is quiet around here.

You see, I've been spending the majority of my time working on redecorating my craft room. As a matter of fact, I no longer refer to it as my "craft room". I have dubbed it my "art studio", perhaps to give me incentive to actually create some art in there... other than home made cards, that is.

Anyway, when daughter and I switched rooms last Fall, I decided it was time to not just pile all my crap, er V.I.S. (Very Important Stuff) in there, but to actually decorate it too. Since I was beginning to collect some vintage and antique items, my "Art Studio" has gradually transformed into a "Victorian Studio" and I love it! If you want to see a few pictures, click on over... in July there will be a post with a complete reveal slideshow.

Now that I have my own TV and couch, gone are the days of helplessly watching hubby channel-surf. I can watch whatever I want, whenever I want! (and so can he without my comments about Controlling the Remote Control). Or I can simply listen to it whilst actually creating something at my desk.

Yep. I have finally finished my refuge; my very own place to relax, create and even indulge in a snack or two.

Although that latter task has it's hazards. It seems the cats and dog still knew where to find me (and my snacks):

Dammit.