I'd like to do a formal introduction to the forum, even though I've been a member for a few months already. Blue Cavern with its members and valuable postings information have been amazing resources for my collecting! I've been active reading many threads, but have also been in contact with a few members, which have been great in helping me out with questions, etc.
Whenever my schedule allows, I'm now going to try posting and replying to threads, as I love the conversations and results that come from interacting.
Here in Canada, Smurfs are known by everyone at every age, but finding any product in retail stores the last 15 years or so has been a challenge. Even with the new items from Jakks the last couple years, only one or two retail stores carry the products, and of course, in very limited quantities, rarely restocking. And I live in a major city in Canada! But of course, if I want something 'Winnie the Pooh', all I have to do is turn my head and look. Doesn't matter if it's the toy, grocery or diaper aisle. HA HA. Maybe Disney should buy the Smurfs. They know about marketing.
My collection is mainly Schleich figures, and I only need about 50 more to complete the entire series. I love Smurf puzzles and artwork as well. Still waiting for an official complete Smurfs series DVD, like I'm sure we all are. Oh, and an annual North American Smurf convention. I know there's one in Europe I found out about last year, so I hope to make it there one day.
Anyways, that's it for now. Thanks for welcoming me into this community!
to the forum.....you are defnitely correct about Disney and the smurfs...although people around me would say there are already enough smurfs in the stores...what do non smurfers know anyway 
Maureen 
