On my Mind..

Justin Trudeau.. should've challenged Trump to a boxing match for fun. hmmm.
I'll leave it to you to decide who you think would win. Mr.Trudeau was criticized on the weekend for  appealing to the  rich regarding the 'angry middle class..  at a gala  attended by the rich. Irony it was said.  Stop and think for one second here.
HOW many galas thrown by the rich, attended BY the rich, NEVER bring up the plights of the angry middle class let alone any other issue other than the $250 caviar appetizers.  
Political Media Drama :(  We see how it divides America.
Why not show some support instead of continuing to divide.
​
I was speaking to a friend  recently who went the extra mile.. he  had his garden  upscaled and then called the mayor of his town, he did all this for insurance reasons*  -apparently  they came, including the fire dept- he had to make a few changes (small things- still costly$$$) etc.  It passes inspection with flying colors! Raves from all around he tells me only to find Health Canada of course did not approve him the first time in 11 years.  & tells him to shut it down. With a suggestion of 3 places (only 3?) he could get his meds now.  Guess who the 3 were.  
He tells me the media won't touch it.  Hmmm food for thought, for all considering doing the RIGHT thing. Irony.

I know people now who have their medications COVERED by the company insurance!
​Do not be told otherwise. If they cover medication - THEY COVER ALL Medication legally bought and paid for. Look into it if you think you might apply.

I'm painting bears  with a special healing kiss... with a bit of  kiss education.
Something you can even try with your dogs!
Sounds Kinky Eh!!   lol come back soon to see.

Have Faith
<>< 
​xox

Thank you!
For every single person who has shared, reposted, talked about (good & bad), glanced at, printed, mailed & e mailed any of my drawings. Thank you.  Each time - bringing ALL of US one step closer to ending the negative stigma attached to cannabis as a medicine.

I started drawing to educate 10 years ago- when at 14 Storm had his first bong hit and his pain was no longer controlling him- he became master & controller of it. No more tylenol, codine or morphine to constantly consider. I thank God & the universe for the cannabis plant daily!

Inspired by love & we did not want parents who were already dealing with a sick child  have to deal with some of the 'BULLSHIT' we had to.  As well as be informed it was in FACT helping with chronic bone pain, that NOTHING was able to do as well & keep our son happy & healhty & active.  We decided to share, because of the loss of judgemental family & friends to the constant questions and concerns raised by othes - including myself at times, AND the politics of it all.  Health Canada Horror stories & fear mongering rampant in our own country, never mind any place else in the past 10 years -Good riddance, to a hateful, harmful government here in Canada.  Welcome Justin, who will legalize. be patient people.

Cananbis has introduced us to a new world, literally, one filled with compassonate & understanding people,  ready to be laughed at and shunned for thier love of a plant.  People who refuse to sit back and watch all day- instead, they draw, talk, protest, bake, blog, bulldoze & blunder thier way through to make a differnence, and they do.  
I am very thankful for them.

We have also met a few 'heavy hitters' in this industry and I am thankful for them, they fight the legal battles and go to bat for the millions who cannot due to lack of  health or finance. Many have been fighting for years and yes- it too can take a toll on thier health. 
We've made many friends ;) thank you...  all around the world!  Thank You!
Friends who showed us the ropes, taught us a few tricks, took us under their wings and more. Thank You.  
A enemy or two had been made a long the way I've no doubts. YOU will never please everyone & I am grateful for them as well - they teach the the most dificult lessons - each time helping make me stronger in the process.  More determined.

Every person who has taken the time to read  this blog and ignored my continued spelling & grammar errors!  I know how difficult it is for many, there too should be a lesson, if you are judge'n me bi my spellin, with out understanding - you have too much time on your hands.
& just like judging someone for wanting to choose cannabis over  pills - we are no better.
I try to only judge 'myself' at the end of  each day. That alone is enough. 

Thank you.

Time to Draw

WHO definition of Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
WHO - does not understand this? 

​IMO social well-being does not include discriminating people who choose to use cannabis for a  Healthy, Happy & socially well adjusted life.  
Putting people into jail for enjoying the use of natural medicine?
WHO thinks this is still o.k.?

No ME.

Have faith
xox
​<><  

Please, Keep in Mind I'm not encouraging 'hard core criminal activity' 
Be careful where you obtain you cannabis, I look forward to legalization in the sense, people will finally have safer, affordable < I HOPE, HEALTHY options.
​
Amen.


BTW.. I filmed this cartoon creation (cause it's a fun thing to do on a rainy day) on 'time-lapse' and it can be seen on my Instagram Account:
GeorgiaToons. 
www.instagram.com/georgia.toons/    

What a day for the internet to be down! I called Rogers-our provider  only to be told on the recording 'our area was experiencing a high volume of technical difficulties.'.. 12 noon was to be the announcement - Storm grabbed his phone and we waited.  No internet and no cable, Storm did have his phone and could share  "It's a win!"

The Canadian Supreme Court of Canada ruled that medical Patients can continue to grow their own medicine!  *(not getting into all the technical right, please if you are interested- research! You will learn more than you imagined)  but, this applies to designated growers - for those who can't but had someone do it for them.  This includes many times a spouse or sibling.  Thank God.  
How could they not find in favour for patients, humans.  
The weight lifted was incredible.
I have faith but after living with Steven Harper the past few years I started to question many things I would not in the past.  
My greatest fear was wondering how Storm would go without medicine.
I swear I could hear the collective 'sigh' across Canada as it was announced!  
I loooked at Storm,  my eyes watered and we gave each other a great big hug!!
CELEBRATE!! Thats all we need to FOCUS on right now!!! GIVE thanks & more thanks! 
That is how you celebrate.
I am truly thankful for those involved!  Going to court, lawyers - and they are NOT healthy! They were willing to fight and they won.  AMEN!

I did not have a cartoon prepared- Im not like that - I did not know how  I was going to FEEL until I was there and this is exactly what we felt!
​Love and Joy and Thanks! Tears!
I will draw a more 'collective cartoon' soon.. I wanted to enjoy the moment.
​
Everything for a reason.
I feel as thought I can sleep! Lay down and have the best rest I've had in years. 
To know I don't have to worry about my sons medicine for his pain...
YES, I tear up at just the thought! If you don't understand it - be grateful!!!
Prayers were answered! More on the way! I know it.

'Cocky?' When I posted the toon below?
 No.  I  Have Faith. 

Have Faith ;) 
Believe 
xox <>< 

You've got mail!  
IT might be mine.  A joke - no, I'm not laughing.
What you see above is *MAIL** just picked up from our mail box with OUR very own private key - that I paid $35.00 so I could have the lock changed a while back.. mail that was in our mailbox - you know the big kind everyone is getting, that you go to with your keys to pick up your mail safely from the BOX with YOUR own key - Am I making myself clear??Here is more proof, I am documenting every time - I've had it!
Could you imagine IF we were receiving OUR medicine through Canada POST!? 
I argue with my son - almost daily - 'Please go check the mail'...  
I don't like going out- it's simple the cold hurts my face, balance, I don't like seeing people  - in the summer it's a different story. lol -
BUT Now, please go check the mail has turned into:
'I need the mail checked STUFF is going missing!!'

What do you do? Who do you blame- talk about frustration. Accidents happen all the time - this is proof - I get it - and if this is your job - man it must get mundane- BUT,  privately addressed for a neighbour * Norm has already delivered to the CORRECT address.
these are bank papers - identity theft is on the rise- and here is more than most  would need to know!   Check out how they tell us to keep safe from identity theft:

https://www.canadapost.ca/web/en/kb/details.page?article=how_to_prevent_mail_&cattype=kb&cat=security&subcat=identifytheft  

Collect your mail daily! I would IF it was IN the CORRECT box - Canada Post.
Why am I upset? It's not a one time thing-  mails is going missing! 
I've had items I ordered never delivered. If you read this blog you know just before Christmas again, a very small package - never got it.
It was replaced by the shipper and I felt bad about it.  
Did we become targets when Health Canada mailed out their letters addressed for all to see? 
If I'm getting wrong mail  - someone is getting OUR mail. 
Imagine if it was Storms medicine OR mine- I forget about me- I think of him first - 
and was delivered to the wrong home - and lets say - its not such a trust worthy person, who is slightly curious, and more than slightly dishonest- well: kiss the mail goodbye.
I hate to think any such people exist in Keswick..  Ontario... Canada!  - lol 
I've been called naive before.

Why do we have this service and pay taxes - for what?
Proof- shit happens, mistakes are being made all the time... more than mistakes - things are being stolen that are not addressed to the person that they belong to.
Stealing is exactly what it is.  

Tell me what can be done? Do you know?
Really, I don't know what to do - the www. offers a royal run around - and simply suggests you deliver mail if not yours even though 'they are legally' responsible.
Legally responsible for setting us up for identity theft.  This is beyond frustrating.
No wonder, I 'demand' the mail is checked daily - they tease me - I TELL Storm - "Please GO, before  others come home & check their mail, incase & we get a key and they take out mail from A or B box.'  Its a fact. I wish I did not even think it, let alone say it - live it, trust me.

It is to the point, I don't think I will order anything that comes via Canada Post and is important to us. I don't trust the service any longer. 
Do you have my mail? If so kindly deliver it to the correct address. 

Belive
​<>< xox

Tomorrow, Alice.

Its true - you learn something new everyday - without little effort - if you allow.
Sadly, not all of what we learn is good news... during my idea for this cartoon -let's dispel 'once and for all 'cartoon- at least in my mind-  I learned of another button killing kids.
Lithium buttons and it's a terrible way to die.
If not the choking then what the battery can do to a child's inside is horrifying. Watch the simple video that shows us. I did not occur to me.  I Imagine part of the problem is a little one not being able to vocalize they had swallowed a battery.
So much so Health Canada did have a warning about them and possible death, still they are everywhere. Did you know? Please be honest.

I would like to point out and ask all of you to think about:
How much has the Current Canadian government (OR any for that matter) spent on Educating  the public about Lithium batteries and deadly consequences with children ***Especially -compared to what they have in fact spent smearing medical Cannabis?
Hmmmmmm?  If I had to guess I would say TOO MUCH on one and
       NOT enough on the one that matters!
"Worried about the children" ...please, it's just another excuse they use for their own benefit to manipulate us until they can use something for theirs best interest $$$.
If I a wrong this would be the perfect example to prove me wrong.  Go ahead.


When I started to draw about buttons- the kind we wear and are everywhere- I had no idea about batteries, what they did and HOW common it is.
Battery buttons will never be banned or the other kind.  It is ALL about EDUCATION.  
​As with cannabis - as with EVERYTHING.
Spending money and resources on educating our young should be our priority - always. 

I am so TIRED of the bullshit represented by Rona Ambrose and Stephen Harper and the damage they have done to this country- If you are not - you are not paying attention. 
I don't know 'who' will make it better but I am voting for Justin Treadeau.
I AM voting. IF you don't please don't speak to me of such issues.
Bullshit 'voting does not matter'- get out there & make it matter - if you can vote and don't then you are part of the problem.  
There are people around the world that would kill and DO for such an opportunity.

Today - PLEASE, educate ONE person who has little ones on the true dangers of button battery cells!  

Have Faith
<>< 
xox

The ruling is in & The Supreme Court of Canada has ruled that it is unconstitutional to force Canadians to ONLY smoke their medicine. 
Read More here: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/medical-marijuana-legal-in-all-forms-supreme-court-rules-1.3109148   It is now legal for  legal patients of cannabis as their medicine to use and have with them edibles/medibles:  Items that can be eaten with cannabis in them = cookies, brownies, tootsie rolls and teas to name ONLY a FEW.  How I first preferred Storm to medicate - especially when at school, for several reasons * all of which have been covered in this blog over the years - lol  So - to me  it was an obvious decision. medicine that tastes good- Rona Ambrose  Our Minister Health - here in Canada "is OUTRAGED!" Which has me shaking my head for several reasons. 
Outraged? Really and to whom does she direct this rage? Canadians that she is  supposedly to be concerned of our health and welfare, safety?  
WHO is she to feel or direct rage at anyone - including a judge of the Supreme Court of Canada?  A unanimous decision. Had the decision went in the other direction - Rona would EXPECT us to show only respect for such a judges decision! Wouldn't she?  
This woman represents Canada and ALL the Canadian people, No? 
Not just the 'conservative ones'? Am I wrong?  Please correct me if i am.

Not just this decision but the Canadian people - becoming more aware - are opting for legalization/decriminalization-  and we should be - what ever it takes to stop sending out people to jail! These ARE not hard core criminals I am referring to, they ARE non- violent offenders.  Growing a plant, smoking a plant - if for medicinal or recreational use should not be putting people in prison! 

I was angry yesterday. I purposely posted - so I would not post until today - after I had time to process. Process before Posting. < lol I'll try to listen to that more often. Rona is most concerned about the children - then do the right thing and EDUCATE them - on all drugs. NOT fear MONGER. What government rules  by fear - a weak one and that is what is happening - it's nothing but fear mongering lately. ;(  I'm not afraid.   I told Marie this case would be won weeks ago. 

I believe we (Canadians as ONE)  won't HURT our children and we have proven it by making sure edibles are available!!! 
Cookies and brownies for our babies! WHY NOT!?
If they are ill enough for cannabis - let them enjoy every BITE.  
PLEASE remember - Our son Storm was in fact, diagnosed by 'two teams' of Dr.s,  one at the hospital for sick children and then again in Montreal at the shriners hospital - IT was only after years of watching our child suffer that we chose cannabis as an option. Thank God it WAS available.
I am NOT telling any parent to make this decision on their own. I AM begging EVERY parent - IF your child is ill - do your research about Cannabis and make it one of your first choices! It IS one of the safest, compared to our other options available.  

Rona is worried about the children...  Rona, what about he thousands of children who are being HELPED by cannabis, do our children not matter?  
Are we expected to believe that Rona Ambrose - Health Minister of Canada,  mother, < (just a word), professional - who is well aware of Cannabis in Canada - a mistake in HER mind made over 10 years ago - is NOT aware of what cannabis is doing to help save people around the world? Doe she not have cable ? lol 
Does she not ever watch the news or read the paper?  Let me guess,  or in a few months will she be Canada's Dr. Gupta and tell us "I was wrong about Cannabis"  we'll all be expected to 'forgive' her and move on.  

The stress added to sick individuals in this country over cannabis - a plant, is the only real crime being committed. Rona Amrose - our Minister of Health (oxymoron) 
the outrage you feel is simply a reflection of what you have provided to so many others.  

The next court case will be for Canadians who were granted permission to grow their own medicine - will be permitted to continue to do so.  I have no fear regarding this case,  it too will be won.  Why?  It is wrong.
I no longer have faith in our Government to look out for our welfare - I do have faith in each other.

I'm going to go and BAKE to celebrate!  I'm going to go and make some sweets for my sweet- made it TCL and THC by me - MOM!  Here is one posted before that was a hit!  
Storm still prefers homemade banana bread with chocolate chips and extra Cannabis!  
good for his bones!!  Also - some medicate chex mix is on the menu! 

Have faith    <><    xox    

It’s that time of the year! I get to draw the  Cannabis Digest Halloween cover! 
Fun!? For me YOU BET! Halloween for many years is our favorite holiday for fun. 
Time to bring out he imagination in full force! 

This years cover also has special meaning. 
It is my way of thanking Ted & Gail  and the Cannabis Digest team for all that they do 
- as in educating the masses.
My cartoons have been featured in CD for a few years now, and I grateful for it!
I was even working on a regular blog but with health issues what they are - I am  eliminating all stress - including deadlines . LOL   So far so good. 
Ted was very understanding.

I put extra TLC into this cartoon as  I thought of Ted and Gail.
I have only had the pleasure once, of meeting them in person - at a treating Yourself EXPO  and that was fleeting.  Ted was enthusiastic as I thought he’d be and Gail was just sweet. Down to earth. The both of them.  They have educated us with Cannabis Digest, at the same time the stories hey have shared make me feel closer and empowered - strength in numbers. 

Ted & Gail - if you check out their FB page also have a wonderful loving relationship. You see it in all they do! The paper, the Teepee, the tiles behind the fireplace in the place they call home sweet home. You always see people over, hanging out.  I am under the impression that Ted and Gail welcome all. 

Gail is not well, she has been battling cancer for a bit now and still I see photos of her laughing, surrounded by friends and family. I drew Gail laughing! Her and Ted together stirring the POT! In more ways than one!  Ted has a smile in my opinion that goes from ear to ear & has a hint of CHEEKY & FUN.  I hoped to catch it in the drawing- with a touch of madness for halloween of course!
We all need a touch of madness to be by - Halloween or not! 

I put much TLC into the drawing, as my way of saying thank you to Ted and Gail and the team (new and old) @ Cannabis Digest for all they continue to do in helping educate and end the insanity. It was fun! The time flew and I can’t wait to see the cover!  I also enjoy the fact that others will have fun coloring! 

As you read the current copy of Cannabis Digest Please take one moment to thank them for all the hard work they do. It is all many need to simply keep doing that they are meant to do. I wish them continued Love and success at all they do, as long as they do it... and hopefully together for a long time to come!  

Clearly,  two heads & hearts made stronger in love and more. 

Cannabis Digest:
https://www.facebook.com/CannaDigest
http://cannabisdigest.ca/

xox <><

It's been a great long weekend & It's NOT over! 
Today, I decided to get crafty and create a sign for the front door entrance.
I wanted to use pallets - Free wood.  
I WILL admit,  Norm did re-nail them a 'bit closer' for me, and then sanded the entire thing with an electric sander. Accomplishing in mere minutes what would take me hours. 
Storm carried it out back and I painted in the sunshine! 
Now it hangs in the front entrance and I am already working on a Christmas one!!!

Most days, it is a good thing when you must keep busy. 
I also drew the cover for the NEXT Cannabis Digest newspaper! 
You might be aware, we love Halloween.. It was so much fun.
(more on the cover - after it is published)  
It's like crack for my brain thinking of halloween!  ;) 
I can't share it - You have to wait until it hits 'news stands' like me! 

Imagine if we were all permitted to just do what we love?
Have faith! Give thanks and NEVER give up!!!

Amen.  

<>< 
XOX

Yippie! & Horay!!!

Sanity is still alive and kicking in Canada! Amen! 
A judge has ruled it is  unconstitutional to not allow edibles! 
Medibles! What ever you call them.  Cannabis infused products.
Medicated products that you eat - rather than smoke cannabis!!!

NO KIDDING! It astounded me when this case started! Really? 
No baked edibles permitted? No cookies or  brownies?

As a mother  who’s son was 14 when he first used cannabis for pain - I baked him cookies to take to school! I baked him banana bread when he was not feeling well enough to smoke. I make him medicated Toffee for the winter months!  I have super healthy date balls in the fridge that are medicated, ‘CannaTootsie’ rolls are a favorite, we have medicate cocnut oil for me, a personal favorite. I put it in my tea.

How insane that we were expected to only SMOKE it. I do smoke it still - It brings me the quickest from of instant relief.  To sleep or a busy day planned with a lot of walking, standing, medibles are a great way to keep it in your system, much like pills do I guess.
I would not have made it Saturday at the ‘Perch fest’ without my medicated capsules in the a.m. and a few tokes throughout the day.  Thank God.

It was a given! I was so happy!!!!! AM so happy! How wonderful! 
Moms can make their  severely ill children brownies, cookies - instead of fighting and forcing them - already enduring enough- to take a crappy medicine they don’t like! 
Been there! Done that!!! I know.
WE even get to throw in lots of other great ingredients! 
My banana bread is very healthy! 

So celebrate! It’s a step in the right direction!!!  
Thank you Judge with  HEART, Compassion, Empathy and UNDERSTANDING!!!

Now for the rest...   one day at a time.
Read more here:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/medical-pot-cookie-prohibition-ruled-unconstitutional-1.2736526

xox 
<><

Oh, Canada!!
Canada has changed a lot in the past 10 years, but never so shockingly as it did in December, 2012. That month Canada went from 2.5 million protected lakes and rivers to 159 protected lakes and rivers. 

You need to ask, why?  This is a quote from the Huff Post, it’s a pretty good assessment.

"It means the removal of almost every lake and river we know from the Navigable Waters Protection Act. From one day to the next we went from 2.5 million protected lakes and rivers in Canada to 159 lakes and rivers protected. You name the river, you name the lake and it is no longer protected by this act, and this has nothing to do with the budget that the government rammed through, it has everything to do with pipelines, because you are able to now are able to ruin navigation and not trigger an environmental assessment."

One little tidbit they didn’t mention is the most of the protected lakes and river are in Conservative ridings. Places that have millionaires cottages perched on the shores. The rest of us can just suck it up.

I’m angry; my children will likely lose the opportunity to swim in clear clean water (unless they marry money) and the risk to the environment, just when the rest of the world is starting to clean their countries up, will have reached epic proportion in Canada. My grand children will be at risk, their health, safety, lifestyle and living environment will be negatively impacted to benefit a handful of international mining companies and their rich shareholders (who live with THEIR children beside the protected lakes.)

This just boggles my mind.. since when is one group of people more important than another? Since when has Canada been willing to sellout its citizens? There is no net benefit, no silver lining, no payoff , unless of course you’ve invested in mining companies.

We need to ask our Conservative government a few questions. First- who are you working for? Second- Why are you so willing to risk your children’s future when you have a choice not to? Third, do you know what your grandchildren will think and say about you?

We need to get angry, folks, we need to start showing an interest in what our governments, at all levels, do in our names.

CETA, the European free trade deal is set to be ratified in September. Once that’s through we can expect even more attacks on what laws we have in place provincially to protect our wild and not so wild areas. This trade deals allow corporations to sue countries who have environmental laws that might hurt their “future” profits.. nice for them, eh? We’re rapidly losing control of our laws to greedy corporations and this Conservative government is smoothing the way.

Go find a nice lake or river bank this weekend, swim.. wash your hair, take a tire tube and show the kids how to paddle around the shore looking for minnows and turtles. You better take pictures though, as this is likely the last generation who will be able to enjoy it.


*Thank You Ellen Durkee!  Terrific Guest Blog. 
I get by with a little help from my friends!  <><
Read this.. more on the topic! 
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/lakes-across-canada-face-being-turned-into-mine-dump-sites-1.733972
You won't believe <>< ;( 


To see the Stephfin carper  in the flesh (yours), join me tomorrow at the Painted Perch Challenge!  I think it's going to be a lot of fun, Norm myself & Poppy! Adopting out - Zen Kitties and enjoying the day! My other artist friend Ellen Downe is also going! 
The kitties are $20 each with $5. for each purchase going to the Georgina Food pantry. 
* I figure that would cover mailing and they sell on line for $20 ;)  


I am just looking forward to the DAY!! In the park! Music! Crafts! Friends! Fun!
Come say hello, and if YOU want a free post card, just ask ;) 
xox <>< 

Good Morning! And  a good one it appears to be so far, thank God.
I have had a terrible past few days, almost as bad as just after surgery. My twitch waking me up at 4 a.m., so powerful it has me crying before I'm out of bed.  And it does not stop. It takes on average 3/5 bong hits JUST to get it under control this past few mornings. JUST to get it to start to give me a break.  
When it is as bad as it is.. I can not walk properly, I can not read, I can not use the computer, I can not function.  The shots of pain I get  instantly stop you in your tracks! Right from the top of my head down now to my chest.  The several days, I've hardly been able to function past 3 in the afternoon. Exhausted, mentally and physically.  What do I worry about - seeing my son and husband watch this. I know it breaks their heart every time.  My days consist of moving from one seat to another - thank GOD, I can draw, or I don't know what I'd do :(  I pray a lot too. 
I have to go and see my Dr. I have decided NOT to renew my license to use cannabis. 

Talk about a week of emotional roller coasters rides! I feel like today I could nap for a month!
Yesterday the court decision was in!  From now until trial outcome, Canadians permitted to grow their own cannabis  themselves or with a  designated grower are permitted to continue! Thank God!  I waited like most others yesterday to hear the ruling expected in the afternoon. I read it, over and over, then I burst into tears. 
Tears of Joy, tears of relief! Then instantly a anger filled me - so angry, that we are even 'here' dealing with this bullshit! 
SO stressed because of Health Canada. Health Canada - here to make us feel better. 
After my outburst, I reminded myself not to get angry but busy... and I wanted to celebrate! Celebrate each small victory!

Celebrate that people see what the government is doing, is WRONG. Cruel and criminal.  
Right now - I just want to smile, thank God, for a while we don't have to worry about Storm and his pain medication. Or me and my head medication, mental and physical. 
I believe this is just the start. There is more good news on the horizon!  
I feel it growing as I type!!!
xox <><

http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/medical-marijuana-users-can-continue-to-grow-their-own-pot-court-1.1740201

Read Up. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/marihuana/notification-avis-eng.php
A new level of low for Health Canada, I guess they dont' want to take any chances of losing any business. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$all

This is how so many of us feel I think right now.  At fist I was going to draw this cartoons just pertaining to Cannabis, but it is regarding everything it seems lately. 
Especially Cannabis. 
We can't win it seems! Constant road blocks and a government that is to help it's people appears to be crushing them at every turn. do it one way and your wrong, do it the other and they will get you to!  The united states is no different with confusion and compassion clubs still being raided.  The government has taken out the patent for Cannabis as a medicine that helps with cancer & numerous other ailments!  Yet,  Gov.  officials still rant there is NO proof!  Someone should send out a group memo to get them all on the same page.  

Do people live under rocks? My girlfriend just had this slid under her door. 
She is a medical patient approved by the Canadian Government and using cannabis under her Dr.s prescription and supervision-  DO they not read the paper?  Good luck trying to stop her from using Cannabis in her APT!  When was the last time you walked down an apartment hall?  I grew up in apartments and  the smells sometimes would tun my stomach.  Back then people also thought nothing about smoking tobacco on the elevators. YUK. It's all just about educating people but there has to be an end to treating patients like criminals.  This is the last thing my friend needed.  IF they have issues with smoking in the stairwell then address it.

So as for the toon, ONE LOVE and ONE people suffering under governments that only appear to have their wallets and personal best interest at heart. Not it's people .
ONE LOVE for each other, support each other and speak up for each other - or...
 who is next?
xox <><

***CANADA'S NEW MEDICAL MARIJUANA LAWS: 
      WHAT ARE THEY REALLY ABOUT?


On March 13, 2014 the current medical marijuana laws in Canada will end and an entirely new system of laws concerning medical marijuana will take effect. The current laws allow those registered as medical marijuana patients to grow their own marijuana or to buy government produced marijuana from authorized pharmacies. Under the new laws that go into effect in a few months, medical marijuana patients will no longer be permitted to grow their own marijuana and the government will no longer produce marijuana, nor will pharmacists be involved in the sale of medical marijuana to patients.

The legal reasons stated for this drastic change in the medical marijuana laws in Canada are listed as public health, safety and security issues. Despite reading many articles and trying to discover these alleged public health, safety and security issues, one is hard pressed to find a single article describing exactly what those issues are. There were a few (very few) growers who had fires break out. Those were all related to poor wiring. Electrical issues are easy to cure and simple compliance inspections of grow operations would remove that issue from the table. As for public health and security, there was nothing describing exactly what they are, just the generic legal umbrella under which the politicians are able to enact new and stricter laws.                                                                         So why the need to fix that which is not broken?

There are currently 37,359 registered medical marijuana patients in Canada. That number is much higher than the 477 registered medical marijuana patients in 2002 evidencing the need for medical marijuana. Of those 37,359 registered medical marijuana patients, 25,600 are licensed to grow their own medical marijuana. Of those 25,600 licensed to grow their own medical marijuana, only 4,200 are specifically licensed to grow for one (and only one) other registered patient besides themselves. All of these rights will be stripped away from Canadian medical marijuana patients as of March 13, 2014.

Under the new laws there are currently 156 applications awaiting approval to grow medical marijuana on a much larger scale in huge warehouses. These warehouses will be owned and operated by those entrepreneurs with enough money to buy the licenses, the warehouses, the property on which the warehouses sit, the massive costs of filling that space with the maximum lighting possible and to employ a staff large enough to grow, trim and prepare the medical marijuana for public sale and to distribute it. With private sector businesses, profits tend to be the overriding priority rather than producing a high quality product that is organic and safe.

Under the new laws patients will be permitted to purchase medical marijuana from these massive warehouse farms. All sales will be through a mail order system and thoroughly regulated. The regulations only apply to the amount of marijuana sold and the income the entrepreneurs take in. These strict regulations will not cover the quality of medical marijuana grown nor the non-organic fertilizers and pesticides used to grow the marijuana to produce ever larger and more profitable plants. This puts unsuspecting (and already burdened with health issues) patients at further risk of ingesting marijuana and medical marijuana products that essentially contain poisons detrimental to their already deteriorating health.

Health Canada's current average price of medical marijuana is approximately $5 per gram. The projected cost of private sector medical marijuana after the new laws take effect in March is expected to be about $7.60 per gram. CannaMed, the first licensed distributor in the private sector is currently advertising their medical marijuana at a cost of $9 to $12 per gram once the new laws go into effect. Keep in mind that the current black market cost of marijuana in Canada is approximately $10 to $15 per gram. No matter how one tries to make sense of these new laws, they fail to address any alleged public health, safety or security issues. They also have the added disadvantage of driving up the cost of medical marijuana for patients. These patients are often already financially strapped due to their varying medical issues. 

So why the sudden change in medical marijuana laws that seemed to be working so well according to the patients who are the intended beneficiaries of these medical marijuana laws? It is simply a desire for profits. Health Canada has projected that by 2014 there will be 58,000 registered medical marijuana patients. They further project that by 2024 there will be 450,000 registered medical marijuana patients in Canada. Health Canada has estimated that by 2024 the medical marijuana industry will be a 1.3 billion dollar per year market. That 1.3 billion dollar per year market will all be taxed at a higher rate, a luxury tax, and not as a medical necessity. 

It appears to be obvious that the only reason for the change of the current medical marijuana laws in Canada is related to revenue collection and has little (or nothing) to do with any issues of public health, safety or security. Sadly, this massive change of the current and well functioning medical marijuana laws in Canada is more about a healthy economy than about a healthy population of Canadian citizens.


 Georgia:  AMEN! *Well said as always! Thank you Lisa! I am the first to admit - I know what I want to say, but often it is difficult - just as cartooning is difficult for many!  She once again put it perfectly IMO. Are you paying attention Canadians?  

Clearly, I was not alone and  news has it Health Canada is already trying to make up excuses for the latest fuck up. 
http://www.prairiedogmag.com/health-canada-breaches-privacy-of-medical-marijuana-users/

I am exhausted physically and mentally, this is all very upsetting, degrading and it's NOT over.  Today I share a post  from another ( a stranger really- I just saw this comment and asked If I could share) so you have an idea.  Until you live this HELLTH Canada - you have no idea.  I'm done. 
Bring it on and yes Health Canada - Should I have a home invasion, I too will hold Health Canada responsible.

She has asked I don't share her name.. Unlike Health canada I will RESPECT her wishes:

Health Canada has sent out notices to medical marijuana patients with "Medical Marijuana Program- Health Canada" in bold print on the front of the envelope. Up to this point all correspondence from Health Canada has been sent from "Health Canada" by registered mail. This was obviously a letter to a person who is part of the program. Some patients have had their postal workers comment about the program. I live in a small gossipy community, I know the post office gossips. My mail carrier is a close neighbour who can not be trusted with private information.

I feel that Myself and my family as well as my neighbours have been put at risk. It would seem like an easy hit for a criminal, a secluded house, only an ill woman home during the day.

In addition there is our reputation in this small community, my husband and myself are active in the church and the community. Many would not look fondly on us if it were known that I grew and used Marijuana, even as a medicine. My children and grand children are at risk of embarrassment. I could lose friends. My husband could have problems at work.

I feel this is a serious issue and I copied these point off your privacy list. They are all relevant to my and other patients situation.

1- information relating to the education or the medical, criminal or employment history of the individual or information relating to financial transactions in which the individual has been involved,
2- the address, fingerprints or blood type of the individual,
3- correspondence sent to a government institution by the individual that is implicitly or explicitly of a private or confidential nature, and replies to such correspondence that would reveal the contents of the original correspondence,
4- information relating to any discretionary benefit of a financial nature, including the granting of a licence or permit, conferred on an individual, including the name of the individual and the exact nature of the benefit,
It would seem that this was done purposely, with malice, perhaps it was stupidity or it could be that the Minister and her dept are just incompetent.

Whatever the reason, steps must be taken to satisfy the the anger and unease that patients now feel. I am personally very much afraid that the wrong person will find out about my license.

Thank you for your prompt attention. I look forward to your timely response.



More tomorrow - You bet! 
It's far from over.
xox <><

More on  the Health Canada mail. Not only did they make everyone a target by mailing out letters stating  on the outside of the envelope you are a recipient of the Marihuana Medical ACCESS Program 
- it just got more insane from there.

 THIS REALLY made me my hair hackle...
 Health Canada states that all medicine must be destroyed as of March 31, 2014.
 This means Not only are people NOT permitted to grow their own any longer, nor are they permitted to have a D.G. (Designated grower ) AND NOW IF they have ANY medicine in their possession as of March 31,2014 they will be considered criminals and can be charged!  

WAIT - there’s more! -  
YOU MUST DESTROY all YOUR MEDICINE by March 31,2014 Or ELSE!   
GET THIS - the only example they can think of to suggest at this time is to:     
          Mix it with water and add it to the kitty litter and throw it out!!!
        OR Call your local friendly police station and ask for assistance. 

OMGOSH! ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!

FU*K - I was mad when I read that. At first my brain could NOT register - I swear - I thought THIS HAS to be a joke!? DESTROY  OUR MEDICINE!? 
OUR medicine that is saving my sons life!?  TAMES my twitch and gives me a BIT of a break! Helps me eat!? Helps Storm function? OUR MEDICINE - OUR Dr. Prescribed!?
AND the only example you can give us instantly makes one think of cat shit!?! 

REALLY - I am sure that was intentional and it is appalling!!  It is adding insult to injury.

 I read it at night before I went to bed,  my twitch was full force. The next morning Storm came up to my office, (I was on the computer)  I decided NOT to start the day off with talking about it so I kept quiet. He was looking out my office window and he said 

The times are changing! Thank GOD! 
People are becoming educated, they can't help it! 
Stories, news, people you know being healed with a plant! Freed from Pain and yes many are saying Free from Cancer! 
I am not going to sit here and say "Believe it Damn it!!!"  
No, I prefer to say - get curious, I dare you.. Do a bit of research.  Then I KNOW you will be shocked and angry and then you will start to research a bit more. It is common sense.
When  DRUG companies are being sued, left and right for side effects and then this:
In one of the country’s largest health care-related settlements, pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson paid $2.2 billion to settle charges of false marketing, and paying doctors and nursing homes kickbacks for promoting drugs for unapproved uses.  
Read More:
http://www.drugwatch.com/2013/11/07/johnson-johnson-settlement-risperdal/
I can't help but sit here between twitches - some so painful  I can't thinks straight while they are going on.  No one seems to be able to tell me why or how to stop it. 
3 Neurologists and a not completely successful surgery... was it pills?  I was prescribed the above drug  "it was to give a medication I was on a boost".  
I've had people say to me "SUE!",  I am too busy living and trying to function to sue. 
THAT is another terrible side effect. How many people are just too sick and tired? 
Too many.  

We have to pick our battles and I'm pretty sure mine is evident to all who know me! 
 I battle for my son's medicine. The love of my life's - Quality of life giving medicine!
Bring it on.
I am confident with each passing day  and continued education that the times are changing! Harper - when you start arresting the sick for something Health Canada allowed for years... I will make sure as will several thousand other Canadians that the rest of the world is aware of  how you treat your your sick and suffering. <3 - They seem to be getting a pretty good idea lately as it is.
xox <3

Tomorow's Blog Radio Interview.

Who does not love Pooh!? I do!  Winnie the Pooh! 
I do not love to cook, but over the years I have been given a few cookbooks and I can't part with this one.  It is simple and has a few drawings and quotes. Well I came across this and instantly thought MEDICATED!  So easy - just trade up the butter for medicated butter or I used Medicated coconut oil. 
(included toon on bottom)
I love medibles, especially when you are not feeling well. I have never been a cigarette smoker and only have a couple of puffs with the bong a day, usually at night when my pain is more intense.  I'm not really a  joint smoker -it burns my throat,  what ever works... 
I enjoy edibles and these are perfect. I LOVE LEMON.
I made them - it was easy IMO, MUST stir constantly. I only went the 7 minutes and it is  a soft toffy, the next batch will be the brittle so I can break up some for travel.
To think in a few months canadians wont have the option of making thier own edibles. 
A much safer and easier way for many to medicate. Especially those who can not and do not want to smoke. I smoke because my twitch reacts almost instantly to a bong hit. I can get a break for a few minutes - the bong it is. As for arthritis - edibles are best for me - it is more of a soft body  high... I like to be in control of my medibles, I have work, chores and stuff to do - I don't want to be stoned on the sofa in front of the TV unable to function, if that was the case I'd take OXY. 
 I MAKE the strength I KNOW I NEED for MY body. Enough said. 
Edibles as I understand will be considered illegal in a few month. 
Who are the criminals? 
xox <>< 

Recipe from the Book: The Pooh Cook Book
Milne/Ellison  McClelland & Stewart    
Some available on E bay - great book for kids and adults!  <>< xox
Note* recipe below is just how I make it,  try to research a few and see what one you prefer and I let it simmer longer than an hour most times.. usually 3

According to Health Canada now it will be easier for patients to access medicine (they can no longer afford) via Canada Post.  Visit the distributor ONLINE, order and it comes in the mail. Woot Woot!    "It's in the mail... "  will take on an entirely new meaning. 
YUK. 

We had a family conversation about this the other night and had many  interesting thoughts. FIRST of all theft.  From Postal workers and others watching postal workers or patients that share information unknowingly, the possibilities are endless.

The Postal System does indeed have theft problems. Who does not? 
To say they don’t would be like saying there is no such thing is a corrupt cop or a  pedophile priest. I WISH it was not true in any case.  
Lead us not into temptation. That is exactly what Health Canada has done.

I have had problems with the mail we all have. Let alone returning crappy products.

O.k. never mind that - ‘one bad apple don’t spoil the whole bunch’ - more importantly,  the safety of these postal workers. 
Why are we NOT reading anything about this? 
I wonder how they like the fact that they have all just been turned into legal drug dealers. Ahhh, only in Canada Eh!?          Pity.

Criminals hold up armored cars and  drive away with interact machines - don’t fool yourself  - someone is already thinking and plotting. Are Postal workers entitled to carry a weapon? DO WE WANT postal workers to carry a weapon???  
No thanks.

I am also worried about my friend - she lives alone (in a ‘troubled’ area of Toronto)  in a large building and is concerned she will become a target. I understand completely and would feel the same. It is just ONE MORE added stress many patients do not need or WANT. 

How about a Postal strike?
Insurance  for “LOST Mail”- Big deal, what will insurance mean to me when I am hurting without my medication? 
More toons to come..... 

This is just another set of problems - get  ready to start reading about them and then  you can thank Health Canada. & Steven Harper. Remember it is your tax dollars paying  for this and of course I imagine there was a contract with the postal service & gov. so they made money... Ah, that’s Harper - keepin it in the family. 
‘Harpers Canada’ family... Not the rest of us.

xox <><

Every time I read HOW Health Canada is justifying  'weeding out the growers' - all I see is excuses and lies. Not to mention very unfair to ASSume everyone is a criminal just because they enjoy the passion of gardening.
OR never ASSUME that every grow room is a FACTORY/warehouse/Laboratory.  

Although I’ll admit, hard to do other wise if your only form of cannabis education is via the mainstream media - I will say they are getting better. 
I think it is more of a case you can’t hide the truth much fu*king longer!!

Many times people have a  simple out door garden, a closet garden, small tents designed specifically for indoor growing. MUCH LIKE many grow systems that people use in their homes who are concerned about GMO’s. Many have converted rooms, even a basement.  How many people brew their own beer/ wine? Worse - how many people have a meth lab set up in their homes? More than you know; after all that is where the true $$ is, with serious addiction come steady clients. 

It is nice to have control of what goes into ONES body and WHY shouldn’t we?!  
Not according to Health Canada-  it is very dangerous. 
The biggest danger is keeping it illegal. 

I have sent letters, e mail and now posted on Leona's FB page but never even an acknowledgement.
APPARENTLY  several people were consulted - patients,  about the changes but everyone I have spoken with said  pretty much everything they suggested or said was simply ignored. 
IMO it was all  just for LOOKS. 
Now to read - Canadians will be 'saving tax' dollars no longer having to grow Cannabis for sick patients! WOW. 
SUCH BULL it is mind blowing. 
REALLY!??  Do you think we are idiots? Who's taxes will pay for these people when you send them to jail for growing plants? Many are already on disability... and these peopel will still need medical attention - more $$$ for tax payers.. 
How much does it cost to keep a Canadian in Jail for 6 years?
http://news.nationalpost.com/2011/07/18/prison-costs-soar-86-in-past-five-years/For instance, the cost of keeping a male inmate in prison rose from $88,067 per year in 2006 to $109,699 in 2009, according to the most recent data from Corrections and Conditional Release Statistical Overview.

 I want to know who's tax dollars will pay for all these people who are determined to continue to grow their medicine! NOT CRIMINALS!  What would YOU DO!!!
Many  have invested in all the necessary equipment and I do say INVESTED - so what are they expected to do - stop? SOMETHING they have been legally permitted to do for years!? Because HEALTH CANADA  has decided to make changes?
I am really SICK and tired of all patients/growers being ASSUMED criminals. 
Is that not the same as we should assume all politicians are crooks?  
Or crack heads? 
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...

I am not alone, I know so many people who are frustraited, angry, depressed, frightened all because of HEALTH CANADA and the proposed changes to the MMAR.    On top of that they feel alone and IGNORED. I can relate. 
Does my opinion not mater? 
Does my son not matter? 
If Leona won't help us who will? Is she not the HEALTH MINISTER???
Leona won't help us. 
WE must help ourselves by bringing attention to this treatment of Canadians 
as what it is CRUEL.  
Adding stress to the thousands that are already ill and suffering  is shameful. 
OVER A PLANT. 
SPREAD the word, make sure people understand what is happening.
The next time you read about saving tax payers money, wonder at what cost?
This cost will be lives. 
Will Leona answer questions then?

xox <><

Now that’s an edible!

I  draw for many people, a few bakers the past few years - so I have tried my share of baked goods.  I am also in a situation where I have met many people who bake medibles. and I am even sent some in the mail and have to say there have been times where I do not eat or use the edibles that have been sent. I have even tossed several.

 Why?   I have no clue about who made them or how they were made, they can taste a little “off” or I can taste the cannabis... and like everything else lately I try to know what I put in my body - including GMO’s  so why should cannabis be any different?  

Unless I bake it in my own kitchen - I like to know what’s in it. ESPECIALLY with medicine. 

BUT I never know what to say to people. IF they ask. ”Did you like it”?  
 I always give my honest opinion and it might not be great, but I do it in hopes that they can make themselves better, not to drag someone down.  This is a competitive market like EVERY thing else so, step it up or move over.

Here is what I CAN SAY... This is how you do it! IMO
Below are photos of baked goods that we received recently.  
Each is CLEARLY marked ingredients, strength and even strain! 
WOW. 

I have had medibles from a few clubs and made such suggestions and then just watch.. some will and some won’t and those that don’t IMO will soon be out of business. 
Many patients do want some sort of clarity on what we are taking. We also want it to taste good! If a compassion club can't offer you an assortment  - then look for another compassion club. I think sooner or alter they all have to set certain standards.
IF you bake for a compassion club PLEASE  TAKE it up a notch!  

This is clear and professional and I was happy to sample. I have mentioned  this compassion club before because I know the quality of the baked good and yes I will say they are one of the best I have met. Why wouldn’t I - It is part of the confusion - anyway that I can help make it easier and eliminate any stress anyone is dealing with - been there done that!  You will fin a brochure from them in my special EXPO bag and a few other clubs I like and have had the pleasure of dealing with. (more on the bags soon)

If you currently use a club that does NOT present medibles like this - make the suggestion. Part of the problem is the sneakiness still associated with silly habits,  
food should be marked clearly for several reasons including allergies. 
Take the time.. add the detail of TLC - your patients will thank you for it. 

The compassion club that these baked  goods are from:

http://cannabisaccess.ca/

and I highly recommend them ;-)  
BTW according to Health Canada,  Medibles are ILLEGAL. 
One of the safest ways to consume... what a joke.

I can’t wait to see my friend Adam from Cannabis Access and many more people at the EXPO!! Got your ticket???
xox <><