When I was drawing this toon I was going to compare the USA and Canada and a few other places especially the weight issues; Obesity is such a killer and our poor kids have no hope with fast food places springing up like  - FAST food places! While researching W.H.O "Obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, with at least 2.8 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese. Once associated with high-income countries, obesity is now also prevalent in low- and middle-income countries." 
 I also believed that Canada would be second behind the USA with the obesity
 - Sorry Canada... my bad! We are actually 11th. 'Whew!' 
The issue - who is the fattest- is NOT the issue. 
These things are killing us and yes they are all legal.. and we just keep buying into it.
So WHY do we do it? It's the normal way of life. Where can you go and not be tempted by any of the 3 or have them in your face all the time. Storm and I have had several conversation about fast food lately. I've not been feeling great and cooking not my favorite past time as it is but - every time I eat fast food lately (with the exception of Burger priest or Swiss Chalet ) I'm talking McD's or KFC> I feel sick.  So why - EASE and like the millions of you I was raised with this.  IT IS LACK of Education. 
TEACH your kids - if you do this now then chances are  they might just want to be the incredible beings they are meant to be!! BE honest!! SHOW them the facts. Teach by example. I read some kids only ever get French Fries as their vegetable. 
All things in life should be sampled if you are fortunate enough - but "super-size that and add gravy!" has to stop. 
I wrote 'in the USA' because those are the facts. Mexico a close second.. If Canada was the fattest it would say it in this cartoon.  Perhaps I should have said in the world but that is not true- too many people in the world have everything BUT Obesity to die from.

My wish for today is someone sees this cartoon and RE-thinks the next time they eat out, 
pours another or buys another pack of smokes. EVEN that tiny thought can be a start.

Time to break away from the "sheeple"  and do what is right.  Look after each other.
How about spending a little less money on sending people to prison and spending on educating our children - properly - truthfully on HEALTH. KARMA and compassion.
xox <>< 

Had to add this.. 
THIS IS GROSS. 
On several levels. Pollution, death, lung cancer.
When walking my dogs the other day on the edge of the Walmart parking lot this is what you see the entire path. 
THIS should be illegal.  
This was just a tiny bit of the way. 
IT IS like that the entire distance.
Disgusting. 

Occupy your mind! This is exactly what my friend Josh did! Just this week I got a package in the mail from my good friend Joshua Boulet! Inside was the new book by Josh - DRAW OCCUPY -Wall St.

WHAT a fantastic idea! Josh who resides in Texas took it upon himself to visit NY and DRAW what was happening & I for one and thrilled he did! 

I opened the book on my back deck thinking; I'll have a quick glance, 2 coffees later the book read from cover to cover! I really could not put it down. My hubby did the same thing later that evening and Storm is reading it  now.

 I LOVE IT!  For too many reason.

1st- we love Josh - we met a couple of years back at the first Treating Yourself EXPO - the next year he came and stayed with us for a few days, might have ended up a week or so - who knows - all I remember is Josh is a GREAT guy, perfect house guest, Loves the dogs (visa versa) and cut the grass! 

MORE importantly - This book was so interesting - I had no idea of what it was really like watching from my home in Ontario Canada- The work, planning, community all worked together to make OCCUPY happen.

I laughed, giggled and thought - JOSH!! You are so lucky you did not get hurt! Or end up in Jail!  Josh braved the elements - the no showering, cold, damp weather and he documented it with drawings and words in this book! It is the ultimate souvenir  especially fro those who were there - it is History.  Check out Josh’s site - you can order prints of Occupy and get your own copy of this book to show your kids... this is what happens when people want to be heard and are tired of being treated poorly! 

When asked Josh reminded people he was there to share LOVE. 

Knowing Josh and the good vibes he already naturally puts out to the world I am sure he has done just that! Can’t wait to see what he is doing next!  More of Josh : http://www.joshuaboulet.com

I spent the morning in the garden - my mom bought me this great little guy! I call him OmBoy HomeBoy!
He has the slightest little smile and I have moved him all over the back yard - finally resting in my gazebo where I meditate/pray the most in the summer. He looks like he was meant to be  in my garden.  Just the sight of him makes me feel more at peace.  
What a beautiful day!  I don't have a car and it was so nice I decided to take the dogs for a walk! As always it turned out to be somewhat of an adventure- surrounded by beauty (that almost didn't happen).
Scruffy! Little power house that she is was so excited she tugged me as I was putting on her leash and my glasses fell and I stepped on them! ARRRRGGGGGGH! Oh well, I was already on my way and was not going to let that stop me! So off we went!  Wild flowers everywhere! Daisy's!! Tomorrow I am going back to pick myself a bouquet of Daisy's! The girls loved it of course and we know Daisy LOVES water from the pool but I had no idea! 
ONLY in Keswick you say! - Behind the Walmart plaza is a pond with a boat launch! LOL!! DAISY found a little slice of heaven! The second she spotted it she was in! Chasing dragon flies, butterflies - all in the water!  I LOVE dogs. They remind us to LIVE in the moment!  I sat for a while - even though I could not see much in the distance! It was wonderful. I think tomorrow I'll pack a little picnic;-)
My girls below and my little Om Boy..   Today! LIVE in the moment!    xox <>< 

When it comes to HEMP - I am proud of Canada - We grow and export Hemp all over the world.  We got that right! I saw this short vid. this a.m. on the Hemp car made way back when!!> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLKDTfQMhfg&feature=player_embedded
WOW!  IF only...  Hemp is used in so many ways all around the world, building material, FOOD, clothing, furniture - it is endless. So NOT to grow it is just - insane! 
Think about it!? 
WHY would anyone NOT grow HEMP knowing all it can do?  Because someone might sneak some cannabis in there to get a little buzz....  PLEASE! That is just an excuse! 
It's all about the $$$ people - want to be a little better educated on HEMP today ? 
Watch this:  
http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/hemp-revolution/   Watch it! It is interesting! 
Education is the key to ending the insanity! 
What have you got to lose .. I mean, besides your children's future?

HEMP HEMP HORAY!!! I live in a Country that LOVES it's HEMP!
If you don't speak up! - VOTE.
xox <><

Questions are being asked. I've been reading how Obama knows he just might win IF he legalizes Cannabis, although you have to wonder - once bitten, twice shy?  It is in the news, 
not just FOX.  People are asking questions! Will you know the answers? I do!!! 
 IF  your children ask - tell them the truth! Educate them properly - not with lies that they will only end up resenting you for in the future - because it is in fact their FUTURE!  Educate them on Cannabis AND HEMP! Help them make their world a better place for their children. 
As it says above... BECAUSE it works!!
That is why this little plant (weed if you prefer) IS STILL HERE. 
People are willing to fight for it.  I know I am. 
Cannabis is medicine.
xox <><

I Love Daisy's!  I'll give you a daisy a day dear... (remember that song?)  Even our dog is named Daisy and she is as pretty as a Daisy - HAPPY!  A Daisy is a happy Flower! Tall and strong - who has not =  "she loves me... she loves me not..."  with a Daisy at some point in their life?  So my bouquet of PEACE would definitely be Daisy's!  
We can't go wrong if we plant these seeds! LOVE, HOPE and COMPASSION. 
You can not help but grow GOODNESS when you plant such ideas in the minds and hearts of those you interact with.
So never mind Cannabis today (We'll be right back on track with that Monday morning!)
Plant some LOVIN'  NOW!  If only in your own mind and heart - it's a start!!!
xox <><

From time to time I am asked 'will you tell people my product is great' - ALSO happens when your friend #'s get up on FB - stuff just starts to appear on your page - promoting other peoples 'stuff'. For this reason I had to remove the option for people to post on my page.  IF someone had a great product I feel it speaks for itself. I will not say I LIKE something - If I don't - or do not even know about it - only if have tried it first hand will I comment - or else I'd be lying.   I don't know about you but money is hard to come by and I try to decide wisely what to spend it on.  So - thinking many of us are the same - how could I promote something - not knowing?  If someone were to say - "Oh' I read..." or 
"Georgia said ..."  If I DON'T like it I'm NOT going to promote it. Simple.  

This past week as things would have it I have been asked to sample 2 products - So I have decided  - When I like something - I WILL mention it!!  Too many times we are quick to complain about service or a product - but do we tell someone when they are doing a great job? Not usually.  Start today! Like something? Tell someone.
 One of the products was a PLENTY Vaporizer! You will have to read about this in an up coming issue of Treating Yourself! I was thrilled to do it! My first 'official' product review. 
Here is the second.. this past week in the mail I was sent a gift from http://www.hempwick.com  -Simply - I love it!   It has many uses - we have a outdoor fire, candles all over our backyard and of course can be used when lighting your smoking apparel- I have used a wick for a long time, I do not like to use lighters and inhale lighter fluid - and I do not like the sulphur from matches.  So I was already using this product (not this brand).
I love this one - I love what the company stands for, It's simplicity  - Peace, love and keep it green message.   LOL - My son clearly loves it too and my nice little box ended up on HIS coffee table!  Would I tell you to buy/try HEMP WICK? YES. 
** I have decided - since HEMPWICK - sent me a few funky samples! AND I also have some Canadian Skinnies - and Hemp rolling tips.. http://www.quintessentialtips.com/skinnies.php
I'm going to share the LOVE ;-) Who does NOT LOVE free stuff?  (You can actually USE!!)
 I do. 
***I WILL include samples with every comic that is purchased 
 - while supplies last!
I was just going to thank HEMP WICK  with a note for the cool gift but I thought I would do it the best way I know how - since they have shared their talent with me - I drew for them. I hope they like it. I love when I have complete control to draw what ever I want - drawing hippies - too much fun ;-)  xox <>< 

Today I feel hopeful. Well yes and no. I feel Cannabis is being recognized all around the world for what it is - MEDICINE. A plant.  Many are talking Legalizing! EVEN better Decriminalizing! Of course there are now many that are saying  - fine but let the government do it - put it in a pharmacy - ALL this will still have the problems - as with any prohibition. People will and should always be able to grow any plant on this planet that they use for food or medicine! It is our God given right. 
I understand the importance of the Cannabis Medicine.  Thank God. 
BUT I have also learned on this journey  just in FACT how safe Cannabis is compared to legal drugs like Alcohol and Tobacco and MUCH more - including Bath Salts! This has convinced me too many people are suffering - being teated as criminals for something that is NOT HARMING anyone. So Today I'm going to DREAM BIG! Decriminalization!  
Really - Look how long it has been - and this fight wages on. 
What's the longest war in History? The WAR ON DRUGS!  
The failed war on drugs... 

xox <><

I have come to the conclusion this is the only way, re-educate and get rid of the reefer madness lies. The facts are there like a puzzle and you start to see why Cannabis is REALLY illegal and it is sad, very sad.  It is all about $$ much like everything else. The difference is - people are suffering physically and mentally. Patience, farmers, Dr.s - everyone!  Hopefully you can break the ice with a cartoon - Hopefully one of mine! ;-)
Start a conversation. Share some facts and if you don't know encourage people to research.
Statistics alone should be ending this war on Cannabis - How can a government tell us they are keeping it illegal for our best interest when 100's, 1000's are affected daily - by a much more harmful - many times deadly, LEGAL substance like Alcohol  - or tobacco!? 

It is not in our best interest - it is in theirs.
 Time to look after ourselves, look after each other and stand up for what is right.  
I posted this cartoon and saw that it was over 200 shares and I was crying.  I can't explain.
At least 200 people shared it and then hopefully from their friends more will share it - It will get people thinking and that has me FEELING FANTASTIC!   The day that I don't have to worry about my son being judged, discriminated, busted for his medicine - will be a very happy day in this moms life! 
Today I am NOT drawing a Legalize cartoon - I am drawing a DECRIMINALIZE cartoon. Time to put his plant where it belongs  back in the garden! 
Let the police do their jobs - arrest real criminals - you know the kind that HURT, steal, rape, murder...   not the ones growing plants. 

xox <><


 

As we age we are to get wiser- so they say.  I wish that was the case - but we have all met and know some crusty old - who are still nasty,  grumpy, racist and stuck in their old mindset. I don't believe getting old is permission to be nasty. I hope I remember that as I age ;-) Especially since the number of old people is climbing - more than ever before in history : http://transgenerational.org/aging/demographics.htm  Growing with them is the number of prescribed medications -  to deal with aging issues.  HERE is the problem.  There are side effects  with all medications but when old people are given these toxic cocktails - (4 or 5 or more pills at once) mixing with each other the side effects can dramatically increase! In some cases causing death - sadly, no one says- "it was the pills",  they just think the person was old. 
I met several much older people at this expo and was thrilled!  My own dad passed a few years ago from dementia - Cannabis is recorded to help with dementia, parkinson's & alzheimer's!   Don't believe me - research! 
Many take pills for upset stomach, sleep aids, anti depressants - all of these things can be helped by CANNABIS - so never mind your children EDUCATE   your parents? Do you want them using a herbal medicine that has never had a fatal recorded death in history?
Or will you watch them pumped with pills ending a long life pretty much in a zombie state?
Check this out :  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyMT1Xx7jVs
HOW wonderful!!   I am also reading about many seniors that are being caught with cannabis in their homes! Busted in a retirement home for a doobie, how sad.
 In the video they mention they are worried about some using it for recreations use?  REALLY!!?  In their 80's & 90's in a home and want to use it recreationally!?? 
 BRING IT ON!  Put me in that home!   
One thing is for sure - as we are all getting older and more educated on big pharma. - you know we will be demanding such choice - after all it is our $$ keeping these places open!
Never mind your children - educate your parents!
"Not dangerous or hazardous to the patience".
If it improves your quality of life! WHAT ever it takes!!  Particularly when you don't have much longer to live. xox <><

Is  it just me??? On our visit to the city the other day we drove past Toronto's new private prison - I did not know what it was - WOW look at that place - is it a hotel a hospital?  Norm said - NO! That's the new prison!    I could not believe it! I had read about the prison recently as was disgusted as I am sure so many Canadian are. The prison equipped with  large screen televisions, a complete state of the art library (extra touchy subject as they are closing public libraries from no funding- all over the city) a game room complete with billiards table, internet and more..  
JAIL? Going someplace because you have committed a crime.
 Some very serious crimes.  IS IT JUST ME?
So many people are out of work, desperate and homeless and hungry-  AM I insane to think that some people are thinking - wow - this looks like a pretty sweet deal for a couple of years. I know of people who went to jail got educated (FREE- Karla ring a bell) come out 
smarter and wiser and even healthier!
 I don't think our jails have to be like jails in other places (see below) but at the same time COME ON!  Jail should be a place you do NOT want to go.  As for a private prisons - I've been reading about this of course and cannabis - in the USA many people are sent to jail for small amounts of Cannabis - a private prison is a business and lets just say when you send someone to jail for  - say Cannabis  - business is booming!  Thank God - there are NOT so many murders -but they have to fill those jails somehow.  Or else No $$$
But here it is and it went up pretty quiet- VERY quiet in fact - I know people who have a penthouse apt  near by and had no idea the jail was that close. I also have family in the area and I worry about them.  FACTS are facts. 
Note I drew a black man especially - When you are born into being poor - you have fewer options. The number of African Americans in prison - for something as simple as a cannabis possession is APPALLING! *National drug arrest rates for blacks and whites are compared from 1991 to 1995, showing dramatic and consistent disparities.  The disparity between black and white arrest rates for marijuana offenses has grown during this period.  Other comparisons rely on more extensive use of 1995 national and metropolitan county level data. The black arrest rate for all drug offenses is four times the arrest rate for whites.  
Read More:  http://norml.org/component/zoo/category/racial-differences-in-drug-arrests
FACTS. For a plant.   It's all about business.  http://www.straight.com/article-119340/stephen-harper-opens-door-to-prison-privatization  or read this:  http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/1250425--new-mimico-jail-is-ontario-s-first-prefabricated-prison
Yes of course, who do we have to thank for this step in Canadian History? Not a proud moment in my opinion. The one and only Steven Harper. To add insult to injury - we had most of this fancy prison shipped from Atlanta! USA - Nothing like helping our own economy Steve! 
If you are not worried about this new private prison... lucky you. Let's hope you behave. 
If they send a cannabis grower to jail for plants - *longer sentence than a pedophile what's next?  When It's all about $$ I m sure they will come up with more creative excuses.
xox <>< 

Still have this bug a bit, and am reminded today to just go and sit and draw and relax. One of the best things I heard was in a doc. and the Dr. said:  "Cannabis helps us eat, sleep and forget."  These things are so important to a body and mind. Sadly too many people don't have enough to eat in this world, worry & work keeps us from sleep  and  when we remember - the negative - it drains us.  It makes us a prisoner in our own mind.  
So if you can, remember to eat- healthy!  Sleep and forget - for now... we always have tomorrow. All that stuff - chances are it will still be there. ;-)  The trick is making ourselves healthier, stronger and Happier.   
NAP TIME!!
xox   <>< 

Since Norm is home I took advantage and asked him to take me to Toronto to do a few things! Thrilled to have my sherpa in tow- off we go! I brought my friend Marco a thank you gift! After the Expo Storm and I were talking and I was telling him how EXHAUSTING I find the entire experience - I don't know how Marco - or many others do it!  With Marco - the entire Treating yourself EXPO - All I  have to do is set up my booth and hang out all weekend. I can only imagine the work on a grand scale that goes into planing an event like the Treating Yourself EXPO - so I was saying I hope he is taking some well deserved rest- and then I had the idea! When Storm told me Marco also goes by a.k.a. 'The Weed Master' - it gave me a good giggle and  I knew what to do as a thank you!  The Weed Master needs a throne to sit his ass and take a breather! A well deserved one at that ;-)  The Chair has a Cannabis leaf on the back - I can't believe I never thought (Norm can) to take a photo of it complete but you have the idea.. I'll just have to go and visit and re take.
We also went to Vape on the Lake :  http://www.vapeonthelake.com/     on FB :  https://www.facebook.com/vapeonthelake
 it was great- for one nice and cool - but it is also nice to see some familiar faces! I had not been there since it first opened and still needed finishing details - they are complete now! They also have a stage and I found myself wishing I lived closer to the city to attend a comedy show. 
I could not be all the way there and not check out some amazing GLASS! RIGHT next door (downstairs!)    http://www.1ofakindglass.com     I only took a couple of photos I was too absorbed in the coolness of it all! As an artist I know the hours and creativity  - using a not so nice medium all the time- Glass - wow! OF course my favorite piece is a fish! A Dr. Suess inspired - it is a bit out of my budget but I have my eyes on it and secretly hope it doesn't sell - LOL I'm sure the guys are one of a kind  don't appreciate that! I could spend HOURS down there -  I wish some of my bong buying experience had been so nice in the past. I know the guys that were in the store and they have always been incredibly helpful - LOL - this too would have been nice when I first started and bought a bowl - thinking it was the entire bong !! Well the day ended with a visit to the Priest!! The BURGER Priest! - BEST burger - ever!  It was a great day, happy to have Norm with me - we don't really get to just hang out too often ;-) 
xox <><

I read this somewhere and it made me giggle. Some drawings are just too easy to visualize. I love cows!  I first would like to offer great thanks and appreciation to this genius!  
Gary Larson   http://www.thefarside.com/  
 who has inspired me and made me laugh so many times over the years - but most important he first showed me cows standing and talking!  FREEDOM!!!  Of the mind...A cartoonist can make anything happen! Any artist can believe  what they can paint.You just have to believe,  & have LOTS of fun! ;-)  Made me giggle!  FEEL free to insert your politician of choice in the podium sign..   sadly, I bet there are a few candidates - who make us feel this way! I know one for sure!! ;-) xox <><

What I am about to say might be harsh to some.. It is my opinion and I am entitled to it. It also comes from 4 years of meeting and watching and listening.  There are burners and burn outs. The burn outs are the same as drunks.  I have met many people now who smoke Cannabis, some are very hard working individuals who smoke and continue to work  are inspired, inspire and keep busy. Steve Jobs was a perfect example of someone who burned one often, and look at what he accomplished.  Then there are those who  smoke and sit on the sofa watching the tube, munching and  getting high all day.  They wonder why they struggle and don't make it anywhere.  
IT is the PERSON not the pot!   
My own son is one who burns one - but always keeps busy, I guess I am also.  If smoking cannabis turns you into a slug - DON'T smoke Cannabis. If drinking alcohol turns you into a drunk - don't drink. Who are you hurting ? Yourself.  If you cannot function - accomplish tasks - well  then you have no one to blame but yourself.  You chose to be a slug with every puff.  Life is all about control - SELF control. Our bodies,  our minds. We are responsible for what we do to them.   If you fail and don't accomplish much - how driven are you in the first place?  Don't get me wrong - yes there are times - not often, when I medicate and just need to go and sit and veg. relax. Especially to tame the twitch. Life is short, precious and for the LIVING! So decide will you burn one or be a burn out?

*I'd like to note that I am sent e mails from time to time with cartoon ideas. I usually like most of them but some - I just dont 'click' or understand the point the other person is trying to get across... but recently I have had contact form a gentleman who has some great ideas- I usually have to simplify  - in my own mind, but he gets me thinking and I like his ideas so from time to time you will see : Cultivating Compassion by Georgia & ______
in this case - it's J.D  of : http://www.hempology.org/  
check out his site - he's a smart guy,  he is definitely  NOT a 'burn out'. 
xox <><

We are born and our mothers know how to look after us - since the beginning of time long before the internet! It is in us to GROW! Grow our families- food, medicine - and yes grow in our minds our goals, dreams and ambitions.  It is also in a mother to naturally protect her child.  I use to protect my child when he was little and probably always will but now I worry more about human rights in general. LOL - I guess this is a good thing. 

How can I not think about human rights? I met a family at the Expo with a young man who is suffering with Lupus:Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This leads to long-term (chronic) inflammation.  The underlying cause of autoimmune diseases is not fully known.
Lupus is much more common in women than men. It may occur at any age, but appears most often in people between the ages of 10 and 50. African Americans and Asians are affected more often than people from other races.He was 16 I believe - might even be 14 - It was such a busy weekend and I talked to so many - I don't remember his age but I remember him. He was a handsome young man! Well spoken, he filled me in  on a bit - the fact that the medication he is on is stunting his growth, he always feels sick from the other medication he is taking. He gets the  "you don't look sick" all the time...All the while he had a smile on his face and was just a good kid!  Apparently he had put research together for his Dr.s at the hospital - requesting Cannabis as an anti nausea and anti inflammatory.   They waited and heard a reply and it was denied. ;-(   I am NOT a DR. I do not know the severity of the case.  What I do know was I looked into his moms eyes and I saw tears.  Our children are dealing with chronic pain and other diseases that can be helped by a natural medicine- One that is incredibly safe compared to other  pharmaceutical drugs that are prescribed to alleviate the same symptoms - yet they are forced to take other medication because of BULLSHIT!   Political bullshit.  Talk to this mom and dad - it is NOT about being high and you insult them when you make your jokes, I have a very hard time, I know what we live with and I am very touchy - I think most moms in my shoes would be.  She is in my shoes.  He is in Storm's shoes.  And his dad (one of those guys that only speaks when he has anything worth saying- I respect that kind of control in people)  was just like Norm - LOOKING incredibly frustrated. Why should this young man  be forced to continue on medications that are  more damaging to his already hurting body? ;-(   It is sad and it is wrong.   As parents it is HUMAN nature to want to help our children, as parents - I feel the issue should be heavily discussed with all involved.  ESPECIALLY to the one who is suffering. He has a lot to say, this young man and he did it better than most.  He also told me about his school project! I Beamed - Storm also did one in grade 9 on cannabis. 
Because of political bullshit...    How can I help them? I racked my brains a hundred times since we met..   I can include his family in my prayers. 
I can keep doing what I am doing. 
 I can draw. 
I have faith.  xox <><  

Plant the seed of cannabis education in your mind! In the mind of everyone you meet. 
This man says it best: 
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OFzXaFbxDcM

Thinking about the EXPO and what a great weekend it was. We had Todd and his family treat us to the hard rock one night for diner and it was wonderful to hear more about what Todd is doing *( http://www.brmcrc.org ) as well as meet a man and his family - wife and daughters - who have been educated.  My opinion of their understanding of Cannabis is - It is NO big deal.  Hardly batted an eye. THAT is how is should be! If we educate our children from a young age - as we should on all things, Alcohol and tobacco (especially those that cause serious harm) and even on diet. Lets face it, I grew up in an age where you ate what was on your plate and welcome to the world of McD's and  The Red Barn, A & W !  I lived across from a McD's in high school and that is what we ate - every day! In fairness to our parents - WE are NOW ALL -educated on health and obesity so - now hopefully people will actually think about introducing children to these places -  As parents it is US who creates alcohol, poor diet and other nasty habits to our kids. I am guilty of it myself!  


On the topic of kids- On the last day I saw quite a few kids, a few vendors had their children and I saw several parents bring the children - to which some were criticized! ? 
 FOR what?  Disease, pain knows no age- so why not educated your kids in all things. IF there had been people walking around puffing joints all day - I'd say - perhaps not- A child does not choose to be in that situation. BUT that was not the case!  There is a vapor lounge and you need your license to be in there, No children permitted. Other than that - I saw no reason - not to have children present - It's not a sex show THIS mentality is part of the problem. THERE are children who use Cannabis as medicine and why not educate them on that fact. When I heard that it was others in the industry that "criticized" these parents I was truly disappointed.  This is the attitude that is keeping the ignorance alive. 
Not quite sure I'd say 'add a kids corner' either - if you are bringing your children somewhere then they should be a part of it - not dropped off for a few hours in a corner. 
At 14 - I WISH I would have had some place like the EXPO to take our son to be further educated on his medicine. Thank God - the times they are a chang'n! 
 Tomorrow I will tell you about a young man I met - Kid (16) Named 'Oscar'.
I have not stopped thinking about him since meeting him. 
Everything for a reason ...    xox <><  

This past week I have been sad and angry - but sitting outside with my hubby today - I giggle - everything for a reason! It is nice to have Norm home this week and next - I am getting so much done! ( LOL - he is getting so much done) The garden tilled - planting tomorrow, a special gift for someone has been made and is in the garage waiting to be protected, the front hall finally finished,  but most importantly - we - he and I have actually SAT by the pool the past couple of days, played with the dogs... and I have decided  
ANGER is too big of a distraction -Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.
Mark Twain
And quite frankly I am better than that and I have more important things to think about and draw!  I shall give this not one more ounce of my energy - I have learned a very important lesson - not one might may expect - and the best thing of All  (hee hee hee) I HAVE been inspired to draw!  The pen mightier than the sword - I am ready to draw ;-)))
As the week continues some amazing things have been happening. Good stuff!  I am still so fueled from the expo - every day I remember another POSITIVE, inspiring conversation I had with someone about Cannabis - what I noticed more so than the past two years was there were a lot of people there this year that have NEVER tried Cannabis! WANTING to be educated on the subject and they were in the right place!! 
Now onto better things: 
I am also inspired by a young man I know name Kyle Clements- Today he has a huge art show at the MOORE Gallery!!  WOW! For as long as I have knows Kyle painting has been his life.  Many moons ago his mom asked me to talk to him - offer some advice - I thought o.k.  and then I saw his work! At 18 I knew he was going to be more of an artist than I ever will be.  If he ran out of paint I'd have no doubts in my mind he would use his own blood ;-)  IT IS his passion and life. I admire him and I am SO very proud of him!  I am blessed also 
(big bonus) that his mom is my best friend  Kathy. If you are blessed to know Kathy - you soon realize that she has rubbed off and her boys are all also pretty amazing guys. 
Kyle is a link on my friend page and I have said it before I can say I know him NOW! IF you can invest in an artist I would say this is the guy! I hear he already has sold a couple of pieces!! All I can say to that Is I am not at all surprised!  On FB : https://www.facebook.com/events/439156389430828/
I won't make it tonight but I am so looking forward to seeing his work at the Gallery- if not at the gallery I'm a lucky duck - I can see some when I have coffee with his mom :-) xox

I AM motivated, and becoming more fearless & FREE with every day that passes.. tears are over - I will be blogging about what has happened  because IT IS WRONG.  Ignorance is a BULLY and I refuse to be bullied. 

Today I am drawing! 
 Thanks for the e mails of support xox

Truth be told. Went to bed in tears last night.  
Wonder why I am doing what I am doing, when I feel we are being punished 
for what we believe in.  
Worse - being punished because of others ignorance.  
Because of a Plant...  saving our sons life. 
Still feeling very.. sad. Disappointed.  Then I look at my Storm.  

I know why I AM doing what I AM doing.  For 100% PURE LOVE
And when you have LOVE you have all you need.
Everything happens for a reason.   

<><

I hear this time and time again at the EXPO. Not me personally - but others telling me that they deal with this all the time. WHAT does sick look like? Can you see Cancer? Can you tell when someone is dying from a terminal illness? In many cases NO- So stop making Assumptions people!  Thank God,  everyone who is sick does NOT look sick - that is an entirely new issue to deal with -TRUST ME on that - I know!   My son does not look sick.  He does wear hearing aids and glasses but other than that he looks good! Several times he has had strangers  comment - WHAT the heck !? Is there not more serious issues to deal with? Why must someone LOOK sick to justify the use of Cannabis as a medicine?! 
If no one ever smoked it and only used "medibles" -medicated - baked goods, these comments would probably stop.  Smoking is the fasted way to medicate and I don't know about you but when in pain - I want it treated as quickly as possible. WHO does not?  It was one of the biggest problems for my son when he was little - by the time he asked for medicine - (codine for example)  the pain was so great that it took even longer to work - at the same time - if you know the side effects who wants to give a child codine ALL the time. 
 I am So happy my handsome son does NOT look sick.
I on the other hand have been dealing with a very 'visual' problem and get the opposite! Especially from those close to me - I have lost a lot of weight and have a very painful 'Twitch", Luckily my Dr., is able to somewhat control the twitch (contractions) with Botox for the time being - but as you can see in the Video below - it is obvious I am dealing with something. I've had people look at me and comment on my appearance for the past 3 years! 
"Did you have a stroke?"  "OMG are you O.k.?"  "You look terrible!"  "You better not lose anymore weight!"  AND I MUST say - That ON TOP of dealing with  actually NOT feeling great is even harder. It is depressing! I can't smile like I use to - I look like a mad woman sometimes - I use to be a bit of a hottie. Yet I don't feel that anymore when I look in the mirror.  ;-(
So MIND your business!!!
What does it matter to you? 
People if you use Cannabis to medicate, lucky if you have a Dr. that cares and has prescribed Cannabis -- - don't justify yourself - forgive the ignorance and look past the reefer madness! If you don't look sick than thank God -*Buddha,  Jehovah, Yoda- whoever you need to thank - thank them! 
Thank your lucky stars you look fine!  It is ONE less issue to deal with.
Video taken at the Treating Yourself EXPO - I was nervous. But I MUST look past my appearance - I am on a more important mission. If you can't get past my appearance that is your problem.  Thank you to Remo - the Urban grower for this - helping me spread the word! xox  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GgzJ3Kj1pI&feature=g-u-u

Really - where does it get us? The worst possible case scenario IMO -  is DEATH.  So if it's not going to kill you - It may hurt but YOU learn from each hurt. You learn not to do it again & you become stronger and stand up for what you believe in.  My feeling can be hurt over and over - It won't kill me.  As a mater of fact - I may shed some tears, ask Why?
To LEARN. We are all her to learn and MAKE this world a better place. NOT judge - Too many are so quick to judge now a days - yet we all walk a fine line - WE ALL MAKE MISTAKES.  To pass judgement on someone that is using a medicine that is physically helping them so they do NOT suffer - be it a PLANT or a PILL is a crime.  I WILL NEVER wish what Storm has on a living sole ever - but I have to say - it has crossed my mind several times -  IF it was YOUR kid you would be singing a different tune/toon!  I find it hard to believe any parent under the same circumstances to want to give their child chemicals over a natural plant that is  helping them - once you do the research.  So - I do worry for a bit but my faith being strong - whatever problem sooner or later I say Is in God's hands. He has not failed me yet. Espeically not when I am defending the love of my family. I have been blessed with my guys, husband and son.  I like to think I am kind, helpful and caring but like anyone Don't F*&^% with my family.  Don't harm my guys and don't take food out of our mouths and we'll be fine.  
As for the world ending - I'm not going to worry. LOL - I believe the Myans were just making the date that Cannabis is finally legal! AMEN!
 Matthew 6:34
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
*I know many do not believe in the bible - I admit I do not take it literally, you can't - if so everyone that has ever eaten a lobster is going to hell.  - I feel it is a wonderful book to read and learn and if you believe it or NOT - It's true - why worry - tomorrow will be here and we take it one step at a time.  The bible - brings me comfort 
It soothes my soul and leads me to greener pastures!   Punn intended.
<><       xox

I got a phone call yesterday saying I had won a Canada Hallmark contest again - 2nd time tried and won! The first was The Scruffy Card! This time the theme is Retro- I cannot show the card until it is printed.  I am so excited. My guys proud of me and  I am proud of me. I am doing what I LOVE, finally - all those wasted (distracted years). It was Storm when I told him he could never give up  - he would grow up to be what ever he wanted - he asked me "what did you want to be?" - HE put me on the spot. I said  of course, a cartoonist and he said then why aren't you trying mom?  So I did 8 years later - LOL  I have two Hallmark cards! COOL !!  Better than cool I must admit is my Cultivating Compassion strip. I know I am helping people. I was overwhelmed at the EXPO with the people that came and told me they loved my strip - Dr.s!, teachers. nurses, grandma's, patients, parents, professionals, Monks - I met and talked to them all!  Families - starting conversations where before there were only road blocks. For what ever reason a cartoon is a great ice breaker! My cartoons are getting attention and I do thank God. We are personally dealing with some bullshit right now that has to be stopped. Ignorance. Lack of Compassion 
WHY!?  For a Legal Medicine in Canada, prescribed by Dr.s, proven by science, being made into 'medicine' by the pharmaceutical industry. When I think of the bullshit my family has stressed over the past 3 days (my hubby genuinely hurt) over our sons medicine I get pissed. And tired but I tell you God kicks my ass tells me to snap out of it and I start to get ideas.
Luckily I have a wonderful group of support and I have faith. It makes me stronger each time to keep doing what I am doing ! So many are already dealing with so much , especially those who use medicinally -they should not have to deal with negative stigma bullshit on top of it all. DUE to a lack of education & interest - I bet if it was their child the tune would be different.   So - it's o.k. I am learning from this- I AM inspired by this.
And then I get a little boost like a HALLMARK CARD! ;-D Keep me going! Thank you Hallmark!  Out in stores in the fall, but my old card ( hee hee hee) was such a great seller they are bringing it back to stores this month!   I am Blessed.