Blog Archives - Georgia *Artist

Happy Halloween!

30/10/2012

My dog Hunny. ❤

Happy Halloween!
Tomorrow at midnight! October 31st, 2012
I shall draw for the cartoon above!
The original! Whom ever from where ever may enter. The internet has connected us with people from all over the world - so I figure the contest should be open to everyone.
I pay shipping too.

To enter:
1. You must be Subscribed on my GeorgiaToons page
2. You must share the cartoon.

That's it.
We will check to make sure so don't forget to do both. The cartoon is just for fun.

Because legal or illegal - Life should be fun.
xox Happy Halloween!!!
Actually... I will let the winner pick from ONE of the cartoons posted here. ☝or ☟

I'm only an elected official!!

30/10/2012

The making of a mayor! We had to make something to put out this year to say there is NO Halloween! I thought the mayor when he says "Jack!? No Halloween? I'm only an elected official! I can't do it on my own!" Perfect!
I drew a sketch on what I would like the prop to do and then My hubby works his magic. I really do get all the easy stuff - he does the body, figuring and mechanics if any. Wood, foam a lathe, nails, glue and staples, paint, plaster and more paint and many hours of TLC and you have a Terrific Halloween Prop! It goes from the garage to the kitchen back to the garage too many times to count! Tequila has loved to watch me craft for years as you can see. ❤ She finds it relaxing to watch me because I believe she feels my peace. I am at peace when I create.
Norm is already trying to figure out how to place him so no one steals him. We have decided he will sit just in front of the garage with some candy. He will come when it's over and then where will he go - I've already lost 2 rooms in my home to Halloween Props! Norm said - In the living room! ... I don't think so. ;-)
The more I think about Halloween it really makes me sad. I am going to miss all the kids
"Hey Miss Peschel! I still have that fish you drew for me!" "What's new this year?" "Will I be scared!!?" " Hey remember me!? Last year I was batman!" Hee hee hee.
Now with the all the terrible weather- it is really a good thing the display did not go up- it would have been hard on it - with no dry days in between- not to mention not so many trick or treaters!
Oh well, somethings can't be helped. Just imagine how amazing NEXT year will be!
If you do venture out Have a Safe Halloween! Here is a link to our Mayor - video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rPH7AtNUvs&feature=youtu.be

To see more you can visit my Hubby's page! P.s The coffins are all sold out! http://www.normansworkshop.com/halloween.html

It's that time again...

29/10/2012

Health Canada.
Those words as a Canadian I would THINK would be someplace I can count on - to get help. Ha!
Here I go again. Every year we have to do the paper work.
Nothing has changed.
Our son still suffers with a terminal illness & in my case I have gotten worse this past year- clearly with surgery just around the corner. Today the timing is appropriate for what ever reason - only 11a.m. and I'm ready to go back to bed, head pounding, twitching and sick to my stomach. Counting the days... 15! Medicate and nap soon.
So on top of all this I now have to fill out the paper work get the Dr. to sign and hope I get it all back in time - before surgery - just in case I'm not feeling so great and need to get it out of the way now.

BUT WHY!? If I was using morphine/Oxy/prescribed pain medication from a pharmacy - would I have to go throguh this every fu%^$#@ time? Not just my son but I know so many people now who are - terminal, have cancer, have a hard time just functioning, most of them are NOT going to get better. Many have difficulty just LIVING! What has happened to compassion where it is needed most with HEALTH CARE?

To make people suffer and endure added bullshit over a plant does MAKE ME ANGRY!
Changes MUST be made! With our Health care system - and Cannabis. End the bullshit by decriminalizing and let people and Dr.s do what they want! A Dr. SHOULD never be made a criminal for helping someone. I DONT want pills. I'm worried about what Im going to get after the surgery - being even 'aspirin free' for a couple of years.
With all the horror stories I am hearing - seriously ill people who can not find a signing Dr.
When all this stated I did not believe in paying a Dr. to get your license. But after meeting people who have cancer, serious illnesses and their Dr.s refuse to sign because of the political crap that accompanies the paper work. People are being forced to look for signing Dr.s who charge to help them. I understand.

I still don't agree with those that just want to enjoy the herb and go to a Dr. to get their license. To me it is almost a sign of cowardice. Stand up for what you believe in!
VOTE and THANK GOD you are not in the company of the sick who seriously NEED cannabis to make their life liveable!

WHAT happens between you and your DR. Should be between you and your DR.
He is the one with the degree. Not Health Canada or any other government agency!
Part of me wants to say I'm done! I'm done with this paper work! I have a right to feel better, be better, my Dr. agrees. I don't need Health Canada or anyone else to tell me I can't use a PLANT to do that. ARE we hurting anyone??

I will get it filled in an mailed out. Only because I am under a 'bit' of stress and don't want to add to it at the moment. I am very tired of it. BUT if I don't- when my paper work expires I instantly become a criminal in the eyes of the law - Really. That is disgusting.

I know what I would like to say to them. Not any 'one' person - as I understand we all do what we are told but as far as I am concerned - as a whole, MMAR and Health Canada need a lesson in compassion and HELPING Canadians. Read the story below.
Who will you turn to when it happend to you or someone you love?
http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1278841--health-canada-brushes-off-reports-of-serious-side-effects?
Health Canada should be ashamed of themselves and clearly if they are not looking after my best interest - that of those and my family, friends - fellow Canadians... WTF should I show them any respect? Clearly they don't care about us, the article above with all I have learned the past four years is more frightening than any thing else Im sure to see this Halloween.
☮♥☝

Thank you God

28/10/2012

Let there be no confusion where my loyalties are.
I thank God ever day for Cannabis.
I thank God every day the second I am awake.
I said when Storm was diagnosed with a terminal illness was when I started to pray but that would be wrong.
I started to pray when he was a baby and he cried and screamed for hours on end.
When we could see his pain.
I prayed. I begged. I promised.
Tell me you would do different.

Norm and I were at the ktichen the other day and I asked , do you wish we didn't go public with all this and he instantly looked at me and said "How can we not? We saw from the first day how it made Storms life better."
For what ever reason we are here. By the Grace of God.
Our son is doing amazing right now! Mentally and physically he is strong. That is with nothing but Cannabis in his system, controlling his pain.
Who else should I thank?
The government? Hell no.
The system? Hell no.

If you believe in God, the bible and you try to tell me that on the very first page - God forgot to include a > * < regarding Cannabis :

1:11 And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding *seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so. *Does not include Cannabis.

GIVE me a fricken break.
Who should I thank? Who do you thank?
I thank God, you can thank who every you feel you need to thank.
God, Mother Earth, The dolphin gods( for my pal Ron ;-)), Evolution.
Thank you sun, soil and rain! ☮♥<><

EVERY single seed IS planted for a reason.

Work together, ONE love.

It's a sign!

27/10/2012

Do this don't do that! Can't you read the signnnnnnns... 𝄞
Cannabis is a hot topic. Some do NOT want it legalized - like those that are already profiting from it. Criminals, politicians, law enforcement, alcohol makers and distributers and *Pharmaceutical companies. It would seem if you watch and read that the majority of the human race want's cannabis to be legalized or better yet- decriminalized. Everyone knows someone!! My hunny and I ended up going to a sweet little tea/art/antique house for tea today and got into the conversation with a few lovely ladies about cannabis and Crohn's disease. I know about crohn's from people who have it and have educated me on their cannabis use. So many people tell me that the medications they were on were killing them and giving them no life what so ever. I KNOW what Cannabis does for pain, we have witnessed it first hand with our son I KNOW what cannabis does for nausea, twitching nerve head pain and depression. IT eases every one of those symptoms for me.
The one woman told me something during conversation and my brain instantly went TOON!! TOON! lol I had to interrupt her for a piece of paper so I woud not forget!
I'll draw it tonight I think.

People can say what they want but the signs are there. People are talking, people are tired and everyone knows someone who uses cannabis. It does not seem such a big deal. Times are changing and I am hopeful. I really do believe everything happens for a reason. WE went in to see the place - started talking about art, that turned to Mural cartoons in the local school (which I did years ago) was then asked- what do you do now and then it begins. I AM very proud to be a cannabis cartoonist. If you ask I will tell you.

Norm and I enjoyed our visit, nice ladies - intelligent conversation and great tea!

My botox I believe it gone. Yeah!! I hope out of my system... although I have the feeling after a few years of regular injections it takes longer. I have a smile back (sometimes) and my face does not feel numb, my eye closes again - the down side the pain is sure more intense and the twitch once again - constant. Triggered now by talking and eating,
which I am doing less of both! LOL Only a couple of more weeks I tell myself this every day a few times a day. A few days ago I felt so bad I actually considered calling my Dr. and asking for a pain pill. - Then I gave myself a slap- plugged in my plenty and set a timer so I remembered to medicate every hour! It keeps me drawing and crafting and the occasional load of laundry is getting done! Better than lying in bed feeling sorry for myself!

Thank you God for this plant & for providing us with compassionate caregiver -who really cares, it is so sad some of the stories I hear about Dr.s.
My life would not be what it is without it.

In preparation for my recovery I am lining up some really fun and exciting drawing projects!! So not only am I excited for the surgery! I'm already anxious to get drawing after !
xox <><
*Pharmaceutical companies are not profiting from Cannabis and that is why they do not want it legalized. More people will switch over from pills - how can they not when they learn the facts.

Terrific T!

24/10/2012

Time for a little T- alteration! I have so many tops with little blops of paint on them, I often add or bleach or tye dye to hide or repair. Being an artist it comes with the territory so I alter rather than toss!
Thank you to ReLeaf magazine for being the 2nd to carry the craft features! I have already had positive feed back on the Halloween craft, confirming it's time! Time to get Cannabis where it should be- accepted as a normal part of life for millions around the world. Recognized as a medicine - like so many others only this one is less toxic and won't kill you. Out in the open.
NOTHING to be ashamed of!Cannabis is our medicine! Thank God!
Have fun! Make your own T-shirt and then wear it LOUD and PROUD!

This is an easy craft and if you have a few T shirts! Go crazy! All it takes are a few items and an idea! How nice also to wear your own art instead of someone else's. I had someone suggest to try this craft with real leaves as well - I guess you could! It is also a great craft to do with little ones. They can tape a shirt - no pattern needed - let them go abstract! Then stand back and spray! (Always use caution when crafting with little ones! ) Remember to spray at MIST setting and lightly - you can always go back and spray some more. When I first tried I had too much bleach and ended up with holy mess after it was all done! It also was a bit lighter after it was washed. For an even softer look add more water to less bleach. The only other key of importance is rub on your tape! The harder you rub the edges the stronger it will be with less bleeding when you remove the tape! Make sure it is DRY before you remove the tape!! As you can see (below) Tequila kept me humble and told me she much preferred my T as a place to rest her furry butt...

Angry bird.

23/10/2012

I saw the beware sign on PIN and it gave me a giggle.
I decided to make my own version.
I was inspired.
<< I also really do find this very funny.
Not sure why. You might not find it funny.
To each his own.
Most people would be o.k. with that.
You say 'tomato', I say 'tomato'.

You say pills I say plant.
That simple ;-) Not hurting anyone.

One Love. xox <><

Cannabis safer than water? You tell me.

21/10/2012

Recently someone posted this and I thought whaaaaaaaa..? Yes, thats right! I had heard about this. Drink too much water and you could die. Smoke too much Cannabis and you won't die but hopefully you'll have a really good sleep. Read:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_intoxication
There is a joke - I've drawn it before (posted below) that many Cannabis users have tried. Suicided by cannabis - not happening. Common sense. Where has it gone? How can we be throwing people in jail, taking their kids from them, ruining their lives, losing jobs for something that is less harmful than water. If cannabis were decriminalized and recognized for what it is - a plant. This planet would be a little more peaceful. How could it not?? Think about it.

Decriminalization or Decriminalisation is the abolition of criminal penalties in relation to certain acts, perhaps retroactively, though perhaps regulated permits or fines might still apply (for contrast, see: Legalization). The reverse process is criminalization.

Decriminalization reflects changing social and moral views. A society may come to the view that an act is not harmful, should no longer be criminalized, or is otherwise not a matter to be addressed by the criminal justice system. Examples of subject matter which have been the subject of changing views on criminality over time in various societies and countries include:

When you look at the number, the failed war on drugs, the terrible excuses for using cannabis against specific minorities - it is time. Forget legalize - Why? So big pharm can then come in a make you $$$ from the plant. Or the LCBO turns CCBO.

The right thing to do would make it what it is A plant.
Let humanity decide for themselves, Over something less harmful than water!
xox <><

In God we Trust.

20/10/2012

Yesterday was not a great day. I woke up at 4, full twitch and it did not let up till 6, and back again at 8. Some days are worse than others and I have no clue why. I was asked out for lunch and although I said no, not to go out a few times.. we ended up going out.
It's hard enough when you don't feel well but when your face is contorting and you cant even get through a meal without thinking you head might explode (for a few moments anyhow) I DONT want to go out. Some days I wake up and feel good and usually they can be good days.. I'll still have my attacks and by the end of the day I am exhausted but at least I wake up some days and feel good! Today appears to be one.
Thank God.
At lunch not feeling well, nauseous and my head pounding - something was said.
I was not impressed and decided to walk home. I left my friend and walked home.
At some point I had another attack and started to cry partly from pain and partly for feeling sorry for myself and kept walking.
I saw a penny and picked it up.
two more steps and saw another and picked it up...
saw a 3rd and picked it up and started to smile.
A long time ago I was told a story I think by my friend Cathy about the rich man that picked up pennies and someone commented on how rich he was - he did not need to pick up pennies.. but he did because pennies remind him every time he see's one IN GOD we Trust. AS they say on every American penny. So that stuck with me. 3 is also my favorite/lucky/signifiant # - for a few reasons. I then continued - realizing it was a beautiful fall day! I would have never went for such a long walk voluntarily but with the leaves, sunshine and warm fall air it was a blessing is disguise!!!
Think about it when is the last time you saw a penny? 3?
I made it home and went to bed. The pain did not get much better.
Storm came home with some Monkey picked tea for me! LOL - toon on the way...

I know the intentions were good.
I know too that had I not been feeling so shitty I might not have walked out but I did and glad.. sometimes it is best to walk away, for a little while anyhow.

You know to you they are just pennies - what ever - it was enough to trigger my mind out of what I was in and onto God and hope. So who cares if they were pennies or acorns!?
What ever it takes. xox <>< I am thankful for my faith- you have no idea! ❤

Craft class 2!

19/10/2012

I had so much fun the night before I had to do it all over again! I had 2 pals come up and visit me from the city Marie & Aline, and normally we just sit and chat because they are not artists.. but I thought - forget that! EVERYone is an artist!
Everyone has the desire to create!
So I was ready! Hee hee hee, as you can see from the results above! We made stuff! LOL It is not about skill it is about the act of creating, talking and making something. To make all the crafts above would cost you less than 20$
Maybe even less if you already have a few wine glasses and mason jars around! And once you have the initial craft supplies - all you need is a surface to paint!

Nothing is safe in my home. In the past I have painted: Window blinds, appliances, shoes, leather jackets, garbage bins, plates, wood, paper, canvas, trees, fences, props, glasses, clay even People and pets! Scruffy was once a easter egg for halloween blue with yellow dots. (Food coloring ;-)) I love to paint, craft but I love to DRAW more, the thing is with crafting you don't need to draw.
Marie and Aline had fun yesterday and so did I! How do I know they had fun? LOOK at the crafts! Poor Aline's kitty-lol will be brushed to make a fur top for her jar! These two friends do use cannabis medically. So there was that happening too in the room.
The day before -out of courtesy for my non-smoking friends I left the room, - in my own home, because I have respect from my friends. They don't smoke and I never smoked cigarettes so I can relate. I am very much an anti tobacco smoker. If I had a boyfriend who smoked -he quit or I dumped him - I also knew when he was ready to dump me - if he started to smoke again! hahaha!
It was a fun day again with laughter, good conversation and ideas to be had! Marie is also my assistant and friend so we had some EXPO talk too!
What have you got to do today?
At some point when you think of turning on that weapon os mass distraction - the T.V. - think again and craft! Stimulate your brain! xox <><

Hanging with my buds. ;-)

17/10/2012

My craft!

Craft night!
I don't get out much - lol
So instead I decided to invite over 2 friends to visit, chat and craft!
All three of us paint.
Linda is an amazing painter as well as makes beautiful jewelry, which I offer at the EXPO (LOVE her pants!) Ellen is also an incredible painter & works with kids!
But each of us is so different I love it! Every time we are together - someone will say something inspiring! Tonight the crafts were MINDLESS - well for us three anyhow. The idea is NOT to stress but to just go with the flow, relax, have fun and as you can see we did, each completely different! We did not have to sketch or plan we just did. We sat and chatted and painted, laughed, listened to music, talked about our kids and husbands. Our art and passion. Neither of these two smoke Cannabis - medically or recreationally - neither have the desire - nor are they big drinkers! They both understand where I am coming from, understand Cannabis is our medicine and have no problems with it. As Ellen said (hee hee hee)- come on - we are all artists who grew up in the 70's! Nuff said.
We came together to create! I have known both these ladies for a few years but it is only recently that I have come to enjoy their company as friends, I promised myself to only surround myself with people who have good hearts ;-) are creative and want to make this place a better place ;-) It is nice to socialize - no alcohol needed - I did have to medicate when my twitch started to become painful but just continued on after like nothing - cause thats what it is NOTHING!
You take advil, I smoke cannabis. You prefer to go chemical - I prefer to go natural.

I really like these two, tonight we have decided instead of a book club we shall have a craft club! Every two weeks. I am already looking forward to the next!
We are also planning an art show. The details in the new year! I will tell you one thing EVERY time we are together we inspire each other to be better artists - if not better people. Imagine what were coming up with for our show!!! ❤

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
Albert Schweitzer

xox <><

Darth Vapor

16/10/2012

May the force be with us!
Storms idea! Not sure where it came from, sometimes will tell me a straight out idea but as with life - he just inspires me. He makes me laugh or has a comment or suggestion, I was asking for an idea on a Halloween toon and I LOVE to draw Yoda... I was thinking of having E.T. chatting with Yoda but decided on a Storm Trooper. ❤
Halloween won't be long now and I can tall you - for the first time in a very long time - there is no stress in this house. I have decided not to even decorate inside -usually done up quite a bit in prep. for all the company we have this month. Norm admitted he feels relaxed and says he is glad to have a break - although if he tells me one more time he is starting in Sept. next year...
I imagine kids have figured it out as well as some parents as we usually the the fake front up by now. Oh well, it won't be the end of the world - it is just a holiday- One I LOVE to draw! Norm has promised the Mayor will be on the lawn this weekend! Blog & video to be posted. xox<><

Medicine jar madness! Happy Hallowe'en!

15/10/2012

Here it is Your Hallowe’en craft! I want to thank Canada's 420 insider for being the first magazine to pick up the craft feature! I believe part of the problem is Cannabis MUST become more mainstream. Not something to be whispered about. Most magazines (especially women's magazines) have a creative corner - so why should this industry be any different? Cannabis is a part of millions lives daily for medicinal and relaxing reasons.

It has never killed anyone and is continuously being proven to alleviate all sorts of medical conditions. What better way to take this out of the closet and on the kitchen shelf where it belongs!! In this fun and funky jar!

Don’t forget Cannabis is said to help people relax, let go and be creative! So HAVE some fun! We deserve to be happy, healthy and have fun! Make this funky Medicine jar! EVERY month I will have a craft featured in this magazine! Another magazine will also carry the crafts! That blog in just a few days!

There are a few notes below the craft and a few handy hints and a couple of more photos! ENJOY!! To get a copy of the magazine e mail [email protected] * I am not sure how he will go about this but it does not hurt to ask! I will be in every month so you might want to pick up a subscription. ;-)
NOTE: My crafts will be under the tag- 'Let's get Crafty!' to see more.

AS stated I get most of my supplies from the Dollar store and will continue to do so when ever I can! There is no need for expensive supplies. It is a good idea to have basic crafting tools - Check out this link: Basic Craft supplies In this craft I also used Mod Podge - pretty much a glue based clear coat- NOTE it does go on "milky" as seen in the photo below of the kitty catnip jar. Best to let it dry over night! It gives it a beautiful glossy coat and protects your work. I don't suggest you wash it, if anything you can wipe to remove dust (not that my medicine jar ever gets dusty) with a damp cloth. Mod Podge can be expensive so here is a link to make your own - I use it on almost everything! Make your own mod podge and also here is a link to all sorts of Mod Podge crafts.. Mod Podge rocks!
You jar's can be used for all sorts of thing! Fill with Candy, you can make many mini jars (baby food jars) and fill with hallowe'en treats for your special little ghouls. Below is a jar I also did that is just for every day. They make a terrific personal gift for storing medicine and more! If you make a jar please send me the photo! I'll send you back a thank you in the mail ;-)

Let there be light! & Leaves!

13/10/2012

My office window;-)

Winter. YUK. Other than the snowflakes, snowmen, trees covered in snow - you know the beautiful snow! I do not like winter. The cold, white - soon GREYness of it all gets to me Big time and a million others. I am determined this year to NOT let it get to me.
Initially I had this idea years ago - we had a neighbor that enjoyed living in his underwear, that would had been fine if he was Brad Pitt but he was not. So I often had my kitchen windows closed - all the time. I then put up the frosting to cover the lower par of the windows but still allowed light! I had the idea again in my office I like light and in the evening I forget to close the blind- it also clutters my plants and stuff - I did the lower part of the windows so the blind can stay up. No one can see in and the frosting actually looks really pretty. I can still see out the top Finally to my painting room! One side so I can still look out the window while painting snow or no. Well I had the idea to cut out the leaves and wow! That looks cool! So I wanted to share:

I started thinking - this is a great idea for the hard to find blind (shape) because they can be very expensive! Great idea for a kids room and cut out butterflies or stars and moons!
The possibilities are endless I'm going now to do my front hall skinny window with some leaves and fancy scroll work... well that is what's in my head anyhow.
My hubby picked up the contact paper at walmart for me - under $10. If you get an air bubble - and you will! You can cut a little line in it and push out the air. My window has airbubbles - you can't tell really and when I cut 'out' the leaves that is all you notice! I think this would look terrific at a compassion club - frost the bottom 1/2 and then cut out ton's of leaves! For me - when spring arrives and there are buds on the tree's, green grass once again I shall peel away my frosting! Then again .. perhaps not I like it! So did my guys.
Back to work ! - Never! ;-) xox <><
to see more crafts! Click the "Let's Get Crafty" tag on the side >>>

Send no evil!

13/10/2012

I hope this toon is shared as much if not more than my others. I have been reading how kids are having such a difficult time with cyber bullies, kids and adults. Not being able to escape now being harassed at home on their own PC.
I have always loved the See no, Hear no, Speak no - sadly we have to add the Send no... I have these monkeys in my studio, painted over 4 years ago as my own reminder to try to only speak positive.
Hard to do when confronted with 'challenges' that we are faced with daily - in the form of someone who pisses you off- LOL . But I am trying very hard and getting better. More than anything I am truly starting to despise gossip. I had someone start to tell me something about someone we both know -had said about me- I astonished myself when before she could continue I put up my hand and said "before you tell me what she has to gossip about me - stop and ask yourself what she is saying to someone about you." That is the truth - look where it comes from! Chances are that person who always has something nasty to say about someone - will say it about you too when your back is turned. That sort of person knows no other way to get attention. It is sad really - often jealousy is the reason or just anger. Angry with their own miserable lives that they see nothing wrong with constantly talking badly about others. I have to say - my friend looked at me and said "your right!" The topic of conversation quickly changed to wonderful! I felt - TERRIFIC! I did not have to hear the vile spew and by not engaging in gossip I had an instant sense of relief! It does, it gets easier - just keep practicng like everything else.

BY refusing to listen we are helping stop it in it's tracks. Good for us and the person speaking poorly of others- help them with KARMA - lol. I will not give into gossip any longer it only robs my mind of focusing my energy on positive! My mind needs all the help it can get with focusing! ;-)

On that Note! I have a date! I have a date for my surgery and I thought once I had the date I would be terrified but yesterday I felt pangs of JOY!! HOPE! Nov.13th. To think that I will wake up from surgery and this twitch will be gone! The pain gone! The controlling of my life gone! My face back! My smile back! I will be comfortable going out in public again! I am so excited! I found myself dancing with daisy in the kitchen yesterday a few times!
Wow! HOPE is so powerful.
I have to go draw!!! ;-D xox

I LOVE fall!

12/10/2012

I love it! I love the color of the leaves, the cooler weather, starry nights, sweaters, track pants, thick socks, hot tea or cocoa... Mostly LONG walks with my girls...
I am thankful for places and spaces where we can still roam and run free.
Daisy - well this is her first fall. She was born in Sept so just a pup. She loves everything about fall!
I am a wee bit concerned at the soon recent improvement to squirrel visibility! Oh well Squirrels beware!

A better life all around!

10/10/2012

I was thinking today how much our lives have changed in the past few years. I would have to say we eat healthier, feel better generally - my mind especially. I really believe the media is responsible for the stoner thing - well them and stoners! LOL The ones you see that show up at events stoned out of their mind walking around with a 10foot bong. (I'd much rather see a stoner walking around that a drunk.) To each his own. I can tell you that the more people I meet, the ones that are activists- educated, compassionate - not all about posting "I'm so 'f*cking high" on their Fb page every 15 mins .. the other cannabis users and patients - I find they eat healthier, they try to stay positive and active and many - very impressively successful ;-))) . They generally seem to have a better outlook! Most of them meditate and all want a better world in general - open minds and hearts. Many not just cannabis activists but so much more - that I will save for another cartoon...

When you learn about cannabis and then you experience it first hand as a medicine - you are INSPIRED to be healthier.

I had the best day today. A conversation with my son - he said something and I looked at him, instantly my throat closed and I teared up! 100% tears of joy. I was so fricken proud of him for what he said. I thought he get's it! I am so proud of him . We have raised a fine young man and now his own brain and heart appear to be leading him in the right direction. Wow a real aha MOM moment. ;-)))) Then he treated me to lunch! ♥
Then a friend who I have had for years, asked me for advice on cannabis because of his cancer. He really is not liking the morphine. The irony is he is a successful Dr.
who has now become a patient and suffers ;-( He has heard and is willing to try.
We have been e friends for a long time - since our kids were little and every now and then we catch up. I was so sad to hear how he is feeling and of course he just wants to get back to work. It is his passion. I was honored he is asking me questions.
If I can help a friend... that is why we are here.
xox
☮❤☝

Results not typical...

9/10/2012

Weight loss is one of the biggest magic bullets around. Take this pill and you'll be thin. IF only. WAKE up Sheeple!!!
If that was the case would there be any obese people? No
I am sick and tired of advertising that in very small print says results NOT typical - well you know what show us what is TYPICAL so we can make an honest, educated decision ourselves. These pills that are hurting and even killing people - because of advertising that is ''false" should be banned. Stopped. Hold accountable any business that uses such false advertising. Next time you see an add that says results are not typical - MOVE on. That is a way for them to protect their ass- when you don't get the results you saw in the magazine! Stop buying the magazine, WRITE to magazines and ask them to tell you the truth if you are going to be spending your money on them.. The best thing you can do is educate yourself & your kids! Teach them about photoshop (some neat examples below), false advertising and to research ANY medication- pills- herbal or synthetic that they plan on putting into their one beautiful body! xox
From the photos below - even the beautiful they touch up!
No such thing as perfection so why lie? Teach love comes in all shapes, colors and moles!
☮❤☝

Sasquatch!

7/10/2012

It happened again! I had one of those 'Who the F*&^% is that?!' moments in the middle of the night with my mirror. I just cut my hair short as I am getting ready for surgery and I know part of it will be shaved so I'm making the transition easier. ;-).. I got up in the middle of the night to - what we do in the middle of the night and caught a glimpse of my reflection! I swear I let out a small scream without even realizing - it was a -did I say that out loud moment! Where is that hot babe that always looked back looking sexy - no matter what shape her hair was in! LOL I'm still here and even though my own appearance catches me off guard I am reminded that is all it is a reflection. It is NOT me. I think we would all be better if we did not see our reflection.
I was watching a doc called 'Mansome' http://mansomethemovie.com/ we watched it on Netflix. Norm and I both enjoyed it. Well there was this one 'indian guy" and I thought he was Hot, BUT as the interview goes on I am sick of him catching his reflection in every shiny object he can and his SO full of himself/shallow attitude was quite a turn off.
I'd much rather have someone like Zach Galifianakis anyday compared to him (he is also in the doc) Not into the Mansome stuff. Especially the C, S&B wax. Ouch, yuk.
We put too much on appearances because yes they do - we all fade, slip, sag, wrinkle and grey one day! To which I say YIPPIE! One because I am still here to see another day- many are not much younger than I, and with each wrinkle I know I have truly earned it. I love my S&P hair! It would cost me a fortune for such streaks!!!

Anyhow as fate would have it - the very morning this drawing was on my desk not yet colored a friend stopped by and we started talking about bathrooms paint and turning on the light and catching your reflection! She said the same thing I had just drawn! We are not alone! I know I am not the only sasquatch sighting at 3:a.m.
Embrace it!
Embrace the Sas when you see it!!! It means (all that really matters)- we are sill breathing. xox <><

added Oct, someone sent me this re the above toon:
Your blog made me remember when that happened to me. I was into my treatment { pegatron n interfon which was a yr long} for the Hep C about 3 1/2 months, looked in the mirror one morning and seen this sick looking person with hair falling out in handfulls {already cut it short} gaunt looking {lost about 45lbs} pale, skin hanging looking like death warmed over. I went back into the shower and cried my heart out. I think letting it all out in the shower helped me accept what was happening and knowing/hoping {50/50 success rate} it would only make my life so much better. It was a long hard road but I crossed that path and love the one I am on now.
My toon was really just about age in general but yes it is important to remember when people are not feeling well and a little added TLC is needed to help them. People realize when they don't feel well - just like obese people KNOW they are obese - they don't need anyone to remind them - that is what a mirror is for. Be good to yourself ;-)

Creepy

6/10/2012

What inspires a toon? This one was, believe it or not inspired by a comment someone made about "when does persistence become creepy". I believe Creepy is Creepy the second your mind thinks that's creepy. Too often we do not listen to what our own bodies & mind is telling us. To some what is creepy - is nothing more than a different form of expression and others what some might think creepy - might think downright disgusting! Yet another might just see it as a completely fine turn on... to each his own. We are all unique- everyone of us, special and each comes with our own mind full of our own ideas. This is what makes everyday a mental exercise! Keeps us thinking and feeling! If something makes you feel "creepy" it is usually for a reason. If you feel uncomfortable at anytime - don't dismiss it. Think about it and be careful. Our bodies and mind have these senses for a reason.
<>< ☮♥☺

'Personal' medicine.

3/10/2012

Cannabis the new SNAKE oil! I read that and thought - that is easy for someone to think - especially someone that knows and uses cannabis! Pain, spasm, headaches, nausea.. insomnia- all these I use Cannabis. I cannot remember the last time I took a Tylenol. Cannabis is Personal Medicine - LIKE IT SHOULD BE! I watched a doc. The Marketing of Madness and it had a point I've never really thought about before - (duh me and ignorance) If I am in pain I go to the Dr. and he prescribes a pain pill. If my friend 'Gus' goes to the Dr. he is prescribed the same pain pill.
Here is the thing. I weight 125lbs. Gus 325lbs. That alone should send up 'warnings' prescribed medication needs to be better controlled. WORSE, CHILDREN ARE taking medication that was designed and created for adult bodies! Which brings me back to that snake oil. I'd much rather have a natural plant THAT eases my pain and will not kill me from overdose before I had to take some pill that destroys my liver, gives me a rash and causes my hair to fall out.
A medicine where I can have the equivalent of a joint or two yet my son has quite a bit more, because he needs more. I never worry about overdose. ;-) Imagine that mom's and dads.. my son will have to take pain medication for the rest of his life, everyday and I don't worry about overdose. PEACE of mind = Priceless♥
So, snake oil - think what you will and I HOPE you never have to rely on any medicine daily for pain or anything else but I would not call it snake oil.. I'll call it what it is - a miracle plant! God makes no mistakes.
Thank God for miracles.

Hallmark card! #2!!

2/10/2012

It's out! In stores now!

My second Hallmark card!
They are in Hallmark stores in Canada (my husband saw it at the Walmart sore-also carry Hallmark) in the shoebox collection area from now until February 2013. I must admit it is NEAT! It was fun with my first card and equally fun with this one! Now, who do I send it to!? Drawing this card was easy I just had a mental flash back of roller skating at the terrace in my red sequin tube top and LOVED my clackers- until they almost broke my fingers.
There is no greater feeling being a cartoonist than to see your stuff in print.
I feel blessed to be in so many quality magazines -some of the BEST available! Now Hallmark cards! I am excited and inspired to set a new goal. 3 cards!
To think I almost did not enter the contest but then I said what I say to others
- What have you go to lose? Nothing. Nothing if you don't try!
I had a friend recently tell me he has had "his story rejected 3 times so - oh well..."
I laughed in my head - I have a -2- I have 2 duotangs full of rejection letters!! I kept them because I knew one day I would be published and I can look back and see that they were just pieces of paper. Even the rejection letters got better as time went on, with comments and encouragement from publishers. I will never give up again when there is something I want to accomplish.
I might not accomplish it but I know I will have tried and given it my best.
That is ALL we can do. Our best. Over and over and over again - until we get it right.
xox <><

Worldwide Cannabis Tribe

1/10/2012

I was asked recently do draw for The WorldWide Cannabis Tribe - of which I am proud to say I am a member! I loved drawing this cartoon for several reasons. I had complete freedom. The owner asked that I do what ever I wanted with the paragraph he provided.
The Hemp leaf turned into hemp twine keeping us all connected. Medically, recreationally for religious reasons - what ever the reason, Cannabis is widely used all around the world and I agree- not until we all stand up and ask, express & in some cases even demand the right to use this healing herb.
This toon is now on it's way to Scotland! My toons travel more than I do! LOL
I am honored to say the least that this toon will be displayed in another part of the world. Planting the seed of Cannabis education all around the world!
I feel blessed!
Now back to plastering my honey's prop for the front lawn! Then perhaps I can sneak in a drawing today or two!
xox ☮❤☯