Category: - Georgia *Artist

Check out MY BUD collection!

28/5/2013

Over the years I have heard many people talk about their BUD collection. There are so many different strains of Cannabis and many have a slightly different flavor, taste, smell and effect. Much like a wine collection - if I had to compare. I know someone who saves a small jar of every bud he smokes, with names like Great White Shark, Grape Escape,

Blueberry, purple/pink kush and more - it is interesting to hear about all the different LOVELY buds! People are passionate when they talk about their buds!
I am looking though all my photos, the new display was a hit to say the least!
The 2 hole spot for 2 best buds was a good idea! It is so fun to see peoples faces when they see it - instantly a smile appears across their face! Some would run to take the photo, other needed some coaxing but every one laughed! Once again FB profiles become Buds all over! It is AWESOME. That was the idea! Make people smile!
Plans are already in the making for a new display for 3 best buds!!!

Then, I realized:
I HAVE the BEST BUD collection in the world !
I love my buds. Some I do not know - they just needed an extra face!
Others we soon become Fb friends and others really are best buds.
Either way - I now have hundreds of bus with all different names from all over the world! My buds come in all shapes and sizes, colors and classes! I am blessed to have them all! Each one makes me smile.

In some photos you might notice, I was botoxed up for the expo. Ironically smiling, laughing and even eating trigger my twitch, Storm and I were literally laughing last night when looking though some of the photos and I held up an envelope to show only the smile side of my face and then the crazy side... Storm said “mom when you look at the photos all you need to remember is you were laughing and it triggered the ‘look’ so who cares... the laughing is all that matters.” ♥

I look at my photos and some make me feel a bit ‘sad’ but then I look at the person beside me in the photos - their face the look in the eyes - the smile on the face and that is all I need. It makes me happy just to look at them. I have the best buds in the world.

I look forward to growing my collection!! Have a look at my ‘Best Buds’ from over the past few years. You might know a few!
If you have a bud photo and it is not here, please feel free to it it to me and I will happily add it to the collection!
xox <><

Whew!

27/5/2013

It's Monday 4:20 and I am exhausted! Physically and mentally and loving it. The Treating yourself EXPO is over another year and it was the best year yet for many reasons and on many levels.
The 4th year now, many people have attended every year - Exhibitors and Attendees - It is so nice to see the same people over and over again , especially as some are from the other side of the world. Each year becoming just a bit better friends ;-)
An educational experience to say the least and thrilled to hear even more people yet again- praising the health benefits they get from Cannabis.
More than anything it was a weekend to spend with my so in the city - doing what we are both strongly passionate about - educating others, especially parents on cannabis. It is done in many ways, through drawing, talking or just hanging out and sharing in conversation. I had one mom come and thank me after their visit last year for pointing them in the right direction, this year she had her license and mom is less stressed, daughter feeling better (as better as a terminally ill person can be) and I felt good too. If thats it. o.k. I am feeling overwhelmed today, thinking about the many conversations we had over the weekend. Everyone.
The quote came to mind instantly..

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
― Maya Angelou

How did you make us feel at this years EXPO?
♥ LOVED ♥
I am so grateful you have no idea.
Hopefully it will show in my upcoming work.

Resting today - Tooning tomorrow!!! Blogging too about :
Painted Boobies
Kids and cannabis
Talk about changes
Growing Cannabis.
custom Hempy Stalkers!
My bud collection ( it's the best in the world I can say that confidently!!) and more!
Until then... xox <><

Introducing: Running with Buddha

20/5/2013

Introducing Running with Buddha.

Many of you might not be aware of my Hempy Stalkers.... probably because every year I am lucky if I can produce 10. This year only 8. Each Hempy stalker is made with THC & TLC & every year they get better and better. It’s only been 3 and like any other work you get better and fine tune it as you go along. The problem is - NOT a problem for me - I have a few collectors that come back every year, so in essence they are sold before I even display them.

NOT this year!’
I did 2 things. I told all, they have to wait until the EXPO is officially one before they can purchase anything and Running with Buddha is NOT for sale. I decided that with my ‘show special’ (More on that Wed.) 100 bags- every bag purchased is the only way you also get a chance to WIN Running with Buddha. 1 in 100, those are pretty good odds!
If you do not win you still get an awesome limited edition bag full of Happy Hippie stuff.
This way someone that might not be able to afford a Hempy Stalker can possibly own one.

My hubby is right now in the garage building me an awesome display! Just for my Stalkers ;-) Each made with THC & TLC! Here are a couple of photo of Running with Buddha but like everything else ‘she’ is much more beautiful in real life.

Of course there will be several available to purchase they are priced from $65.00 Up to $400. for “the Twins” if you are interested you better decide early...

Each takes a long time to make, almost a full year, proper drying and prep then painting, bringing to life - most of them guide me as to what they become ;-) I add little details, charms, beads, glass and what ever else seems to want to be part of Hempy Stalker ART.

I have had Running with Buddha on display in my own living room and it is going to be hard to part with. Not one person walks by and does not make a comment! What a wonderful way to start a conversation about Cannabis. Ideal for a Compassion CLUB, HOME. OFFICE anywhere! I have a friend with one on order after the EXPO to display in her store front window! EXCITING!

To me they are sculpture, art... that is what they are, NOT for Children. They are not toys. They are a little delicate but made to be handled, touched and appreciated for all they are, and all they represent!
LIFE - GROWTH and LOVE.

Want to see more!? See you at the EXPO and I will have a blog with all the Stalkers after the EXPO - sorry no point even showing them now, I don’t like to tell people “No.”
xox <><

GIFT BAG CONTEST TIME!!

19/5/2013

It's time! Time to enter the contest! Contest time! For one reason or another; batteries in camera die, I fell asleep... lol I am now finally posting this contest!

My Treating Yourself EXPO Gift bag!
Valued at over $400! Full of fun stuff!

What’s in it?
3 signed prints from my friend Jason Belamm
1 Green Reefer - ‘Who you gonna call’ T -shirt
1 limited edition, hand drawn mug by GT ‘Good Morning Bud'
1 metal Cannabis sign decoration
1 tiny glowing mushroom (not edible)
Copy of Cannabis Digest
GT Original, Halloween card design 2012
2 Happy Hippie Comic Books
1 Scruffy card & envelope
Cannabis Key chain By Linda
A Real Meal Table Fable- Early Georgia Work.
Peace wooden sign
Flip Flips LOVE moms for marijuana
Hemp Wick, Hemp ball in a box (awesome stuff)
Complete set of GT post cards
Box of Quintessential ‘Canadian Skinnies’ and samples
Legalize It Wrist Band(s)
Hand drawn, ladies baseball cap by GT
Re-USE Tote by GT and thanks Section 56
Hand painted Washer Poppy by GT
Mini Framed ‘Sea Weed’ By GT
Hand painted Cannabis egg by GT
1 lucky mushroom rock
1 original collage ‘Criminals’ BY GT
2 -3 DAY passes to this Years Treating Yourself Medical Cannabis EXPO!
Please check out the links above. (active links different color)
Thank you to all of my friends who support, encourage and keep me creative.

TO WIN: All you do is
*share the TOON above Posted, My favorite ‘Living Proof’ <3
*It must be shared from my original POST
Share as many times as you want.
YOU must also be subscribed to my FB page.
Winner drawn MUST be able to attend the EXPO.
You are responsible for getting there yourself.
It will not be exchanged for anything else.
Your tickets will be waiting for you at the main entrance.
Pick up the gift bag - come see me at my booth.
I will draw for the winner in 24 hours.. at 4:20 Yeah!!! Long weekend here in Canada!!

So Share! Thank you for your support! No time for posting new toons but that does not mean they are not happening ;-) New Display is done... more in Tomorrows blog.. xox

April Newsletter!

11/4/2013

April Newsletter!
Delivered directly to your In box! E me if you want to be on the mailing list.
Be the first to know what's new, coupons, events.. YOU must print newsletter or show me an image (on your phone) at the EXPO to receive Coupons. xox <><

You don't look sick...

4/6/2012

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

I asked for a sign and God sent Moses! LOL

31/5/2012

Almost at the end of the EXPO - this was it my weekend to spread the word!
I was embarrassed at the beginning of the expo because I wrote on FB I am going to speak- and people asked me - or commented - “Oh when are you speaking, near Jodie?”
I was so embarrassed - I meant I was going to speak to anyone that would listen to me from my booth. Get on stage with my face and twitch ? No thanks.
Anyhow, I met so many amazing people and Sunday the best day yet! I was stewing in my booth remembering a conversation (very short) I had had and was thinking and told myself - move on, remember why you are here- and I swear to you - these two Buddhists walked up to my booth! Sounds like the start of a bad joke... I speak to everyone - sure enough one likes cartoons and draws but is a Dr. so he does not get to draw much anymore. The english was a little difficult, but I believe if we want to we can communicate with anyone (I had a wonderful conversation with Lauren in the Vape lounge and don’t speak sign) you just have to be open and patient. - I am so glad I was!!! So any how these two Buddhist - one is a Dr., the other a MONK! (former) We start Ommani - that is how it started! He noticed my necklace and asked me if I knew what it meant! HOW COOL! Compassion - it gave me the idea for Cultivating Compassion (former blog) I was telling them the mantras I listen to when I draw ;-)))
I was once again at peace!
My mind again on track we laughed, exchanged cards, good vibes, they laughed at laughing Buddha! LOL! So glad he was with me. I remember thanking God for ‘that sign’ - how cool!!!
This was the last day - it got really quiet and I prayed I had made a difference - this insanity and ignorance about Cannabis has to end - too many people are suffering because of it.
So, I thanked God and thought the show is almost over - anyone else I need to speak with best be soon...
He sent me Moses! LOL - I was lying in bed when that toon popped in my head and I started to giggle - I have a head cold and have felt crappy pretty much all day
BUT I had to get up and draw! God sent me Moses ;-)))

I said I was going to talk and hoped someone would listen. I saw Moses standing over to the side and I realized who he was and I was instantly nervous! OMGOSH! That’s Moses! If you are not Canadian you might NOT know who Moses is `but I do!
This was it! IF I had once chance to spread the word and there is MOSES!
I’m giggling because I just started to walk over and grabbed him by the arm and pulled him into my booth! The man did not have a choice ;-) I STILL cannot believe I did it. Storm was so proud of me. Perhaps I was not meant to talk to a crowd ;-) I think I was able to do it because I saw (in my mind- not crazy) Michelle - I still miss her - she was a class act in my book. Her hair, red lips and smile always a hug and a genuine one at that. She sent Storm a goodie box when she found out he was legal! She would want me to speak to her friend Moses! I remembered the year they two of them walked around the expo arm and arm. That was it! I’m not sure who exactly kicked me in the ass but I took that first step! That leap of faith- I planted the seed about cannabis and kids in Moses mind - LOL - o.k. it’s probably already there - the man does everything, but I refreshed ;-).

We had a wonderful conversation I introduced him to Storm - OMGosh I think I forgot about Marie- I was shaking when he left. He was so soft spoken and I yell! LOL - Hearing impaired child, I hope I didn’t frighten him. I was talking to a man that I admire- who makes a difference and has for a long time and I am reminded of the incredible difference one man can make! One man one woman!
Oh - Moses was just as peaceful as my Buddhist!
HOLY COW! LOL - I think I said that to them! ;-) We laughed a lot it was so nice, so I guess I got a sign for sure!
From Buddha and God! HAVE FAITH!

It was wonderful. I am grinning from ear to ear. We are blessed.
xox <>< Read More about Moses here: http://www.mosesznaimer.com/
Tommorrow I blog about "Oscar (not his real name as he is only 16) and wants Cannabis as his medicine. I was honored to meet him and his family too.

Me and the man - Moses ;-)

Treating Yourself EXPO was a hit!

29/5/2012

I am home! A bit rested - I am NOT use to the city and had a hard time sleeping, so I have a bit of catch up to be doing! WE had an amazing time! There was so much happening and going on again - NOT once was I able to leave my booth and see the entire expo -I'd try but would see someone I know or knows me and would chat - realizing I had to get back to my booth - so I only really left when I had to. I have made notes - several things happened at the EXPO I can not wait to share. A couple of 'events/situations' - not great and that too will be talked about - it is the only way to correct and make changes! Luckily there were really only 2 things that bothered me - an ignorant radio host, a bad attitude politician (go figure) - more on that later... other than that the show was fantastic! I met so many wonderful people all ages, races and education! I was honored to meet several people in particular famous and not.
I had a few AMAZING things happen to us - wow my head still reeling - did that conversation really take place ?! KOWABUNGA - I am excited beyond- BUT I have to focus!
I have drawing to do - I have a waiting list- I have made notes and have some great photos!
Like the one about of my handsome son in the booth this year ;-)
All of which I shall share starting tomorrow! Today it's re-organize, but just a few key words/names/people I will be talking about: Oliver ;-), Moses, Marco, My liberal and NDP experience, Jodie, Patti, Lauren, Marie, Storm (of course), Tiny pink panties, Tourists,
Options, Ignorant Radio hosts, Martin, Drawing, teen age boys, Buddhist monks and more!
More importantly - to me anyhow - I get back to business today! DRAWING!
MUCH love to all who came out to say hello- Thank you! Stay tooned!
Oh BTW - Expo booked for next year already ! May 24- weekend 2013!! If it continues to grow like I have witnessed it the past 3 years (which it will) I am convinced it is only a matter of time before cannabis is legalized and the insanity ended!
xox<><

Photo Ops. ;-) are fun!

23/5/2012

The Happy Hippie is se up in my home - a few touch ups and he is ready for the EXPO. I love this guy and so did the many people who had their photos taken with him last year.
People can not resist becoming a bud! My own aunt and uncle were up on the weekend and they both had their photos taken with Buddy ;-) LOL Neither tired cannabis ever but are very supportive of our medicine. Photos are memories - I don't care if someone buys something or not - He is here to take a photo and hopefully make someone smile ;-)
I heard about a car show my cousin was at - he has a beautiful classic - and The Fonz was there YOu know AAAAEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeee! It's The Fonz! My cousins friend wanted a
photo with the Fonz - I would too! BUT apparently it would cost him $20 bucks! FOR WHAT a PHOTO of the Fonz- who is not quite the FONZ anymore!? Man it is all about $$! I was so disappointed to hear that. Last year someone asked me ( they were staring at the display and smiling and I told them to take a picture-) How much? FREE OF COURSE! OMGosh!
It makes my day to know someone wants a photo with my HH or this years Laughing Buddha! If I think that each time they look at this photo a little smile will sneak across their face - Well that is worth more than $20. bucks if you ask me. ;-) I don't care if they do not know who I am or about my son. I get such a smile watching them take the photos ;-) I took a few last year and e mailed to those who did not have a camera ;-) FREE of charge.
So COME take your PHOTO- PLEASE!
FREE!
SMILES FREE!

Fonz- $20. for a photo? Tisk Tisk Tisk I still love you - but I wont pay $20 for a photo, now a kiss on the cheek.. an AAAAAAAAeeeeeeeeeeeeeee... perhaps.

I chanted when I painted him and thought happy thoughts and wished that everyone that he makes smile is blessed ;-) From me to them. GOOD VIBES on the way ;-)

What an exciting week!

22/5/2012

Wow - when it rains it pours! GREAT stuff!! Today my baby gets his first vehicle that he is purchasing on his own! WOW - He drove my car to the end - the past year we had to have it towed a few times and Storm is also looking for a little more comfort and we safety ;-) I am SO proud of him ( both of us are) He works very hard and saves his money and today he will drive home his new wheels and drive his mom to the EXPO in comfort and style! LOL I can't wait till he brings it home. * note car for sale- great clunker for getting around, also great starter car for new kid driver. DOES not go very fast hee hee hee.
In just 3 more days I'll be setting up for the EXPO! I'm as ready as I will ever be! My sherpa (below) in the garage making boxes for the originals, LB is painted and ready to take photos! The Happy Hippie is ready to GO! I AM SO EXCITED and I'm feeling GREAT!
My botox seems to be at it's prime and I have to thank the Dr. he is mastering where the injections go and I am NOT in as much pain! :-) YEAH! Any that I am, is quickly helped with Cannabis!! I am SO READY!
We did open the pool on the weekend and Daisy LOVES it! All Storm had to do was whistle and she was in - right over to him and would stay in the pool as long as he did. Some photos below I have to go and do some last minute painting!!! <>< XOX

I will say that I will be happy when the EXPO is over so I might resume cartooning - the ideas are backlogged in my brain - Not much room in there these days ;-)

Treating Yourself Magazine Issue #29

6/7/2011

Truth be told. Storm's story is finally out. Over the years I have been asked to write something , do interviews (which I can not without tearing up - and like Oprah, I hate the Ugly cry ;-) So I sat down and wrote it out, let my guys read it and then sent it off to TY. I thought they would edit it, they corrected it but kept the entire story! It was 'releasing' to write it out, although emotional - re living many of the experiences that I had hoped to put behind us. THIS story needed to be told. There are so many people out there who are so misinformed about Cannabis. They hear only the negative and think it's all about getting high. For many sick and suffering people all around the world it is about medicine and pain control. I especially want parents to know. Parents who have sick children, there is a safer option. The only way people will believe is when they look into things for themselves.
If anything I pray the article gets people curious. Everything happens for a reason. It has been a constant learning experience and it continues to date. This is my son's medicine. This is my sons life. This is our family. I thank God every day for Cannabis and finally some pain control for our son ;-))) To those who have read the article and have e mailed me, thank you. I have had nothing but positive feedback. One person said "You're so brave."
I am not the brave one - it is my son Storm that has to endure everyday. He is Brave. My inspiration. My Love.
The fact that he continues to GO GO GO every day, not letting his disease slow him down, not feeling sorry for himself when I know he is hurting is all I need to keep going. If you have not read the article it is available in stores now. Long before I was in the magazine with my comic strip (before anyone knew it was based on a true story), I though it was a terrific magazine. I am thrilled to be in several amazing magazines now. ALL educating, helping. I do believe Cannabis will be legalized. ONCE more people learn the truth it has to be. No point bitching about Steven Harper - his time will come when eyes will be opened - many already are!! Instead of spreading the anger and hate - plant the seed! The seed of truth and knowledge ... it is growing big and tall like a weed, GeHARD to pull out of the garden! The greatest WEED of all. Cannabis.
If you do want to support us, all I ask is that you purchase a comic! Maybe 2? One for you and one to help educate a friend. SPREAD the word, Share the story ..
More than anything I want to say thank you &
Prayers are always appreciated ;-) xox Georgia & family.

Cover of Treating Yourself Issue # 29 featuring Storm's Story

Todays toon.. As long as I have to I will keep drawing and educating and creating a curiosity. Inspired by LOVE I can not fail.

Kowabunga.. busy busy busy Women at the EXPO

15/6/2011

So much for my next day blog, Stuff happens and one thing leads to another I try to squeeze in a few drawings and the day is gone.. so better late than never.
Women at the EXPO.
Last year fate brought me a new friend. Our booths happened to be across from each other and we were laughing the at the first sentence. We both had Lotus flowers on our booths .. it just continued from there. My friend Candice is one of the best memories I have experienced from the Treating Yourself EXPO. The second we spotted each other this year we smiled from ear to ear! We were lucky enough to get to have diner at this EXPO and shared more than a few giggles. I can not believe we again did not get a photo together! I'll have to draw us again. She also has a fantastic product & incredible HEMP paper - which I have been drawing on and enjoying BIG TIME. http://www.quintessentialtips.com but never mind her product It is her smile and attitude and laughter that I already look forward to next year!
SO many wonderful women! They make me all proud to be a woman! Where do I begin?
Oh, LOL - although I like the women I only mostly got photos with men - tee hee hee something never change;-) Amy! My baking friend who made the cotton candy that everyone is talking about. She is talented and tiny and has a HUGE heart.
I see it every time I look at her. http://www.amyanonymous.ca
I finally got to meet Laurentine .. as sweet as can be and funny. One of my biggest fans and inspiration. Another friend I look forward to getting to know better.
"The" Jodie Emery came over to say hello to Storm and I and we were very happy to finally meet her, I watch Jodie's blog all the time and think that Cannabis culture is one of the best informative sites out there. Mark is the Prince of Pot - Jodie is the princess. She works very hard at trying to make a difference and is very educated on the subjects, sadly a little too close to home for her. She is very strong. Angie bought one of my originals I had planned for a friend that could not make it ( Yoda), so I figured it was fate. I am so happy that it went to Angie, it means a lot to me. Mary Jane - let's not forget her! Friends who I have met through FaceBook and came up to say hello! Patti, Cat, Jen, Marie... I was overwhelmed and think of someone different several times a day- I know I can't possibly remember everyone and many just faces! The Yoga lady - who is getting married! She was so nice, as was her mom. That mom from Texas... The older classy woman with her hubby who is tired of all the mixed medications! ALL EDUCATED.

And you know what- they were all there for the same reason! They all believe.
Male, female, straight, gay, doctors, stoners, lawyers, mothers and fathers! EVERYONE you can imagine was there at the EXPO! HOW can I not be inspired! I think I have to draw!
I have been lucky - The Green Reefer came back too! Decided to hang out in Canada a bit longer! We have had so much fun two completely different cartoonists also working together, literally with our comic strip for the GREATER GOOD! LOL had to laugh when we came back to reality (after the EXPO) and My hubby had The green Reefer cutting the grass! LOL I am blesses.

So not only do you get educated at the Treating Yourself EXPO if your lucky you meet some pretty amazing new people and they become friends. A few photos.

Missing from this years EXPO...

10/6/2011

Michelle Rainey
One night Storm and I walking back from the hard rock we both had mentioned how much we missed Michelle. Just the presence of Michelle. We knew her briefly compared to most so I am sure we were not the only ones thinking about her. I heard that a friend won the Michelle Rainey award! - I do not know the details (will find out more) - I am sure it is an award for cannabis awareness and compassion beyond what others only speak about. Al who is P.A.C.E is another hard working gentleman, as is his wife and his good friend Mike. I really enjoy when I see them and look forward to our talks. I am learning the EXPO is not the place for that to happen. So once again I am inspired by Michelle... and continue to draw for change.
Also missing Marc Emery.
His giant banner and his t-shirts and buttons and beautiful wife Jodie all there. All there for Marc. I have never met the man, but with most things I try to do a little research -I have educated myself to know that he is a very determined and educated man with strong opinions and is not afraid of making waves for what he believes in. For that I admire anyone. I told Jodie, it was a moment when I am normally a very proud Canadian... I was a little ashamed. I cannot believe that we (as a Country) sent Marc to the U.S.A and for what - in all reality .. A PLANT. A PLANT grown from a seed planted originally here by GOD. I shake my head just thinking about it.
You never know what tomorrow may bring! It may bring Marc home. AT least back to Canada to serve the remaining time. It is cruel and unusual punishment to be taken so far away. I also told Jodie I saw a documentary about Jack Herer, he created his best work in jail! The Emperor wears no clothes. http://www.jackherer.com/thebook/chapter-two
I can only imagine with Marc will come out with. That and a wicked guitar Duo coming up with Tommy Chong! ;-))) I am excited about that.
Well, I think that was the only thing about the EXPO that I felt was missing ... of course Jack.. but we know people leave us, some we will never forget or stop missing.. for me it will be Michelle.

Tomorrow... ladies of the EXPO!

Michelle & Storm. Everyone and everything happens for a reason. Michelle was one of the first to open her heart to Storm. I will be forever grateful.

Treating Yourself EXPO . 3 men I met.

9/6/2011

I always say everything and everyone we meet happens for a reason.
I have been Blessed to now meet a few of the best. ;-)At the EXPO I met many men, it is clearly a male run industry. The amazing thing about being in a trade show is watching it come together. I have to say how impressed I was watching the pro's at work. I commented to my son Storm that I noticed Franco - from Green House seeds is there first thing setting up, it is a lot of work! I also saw for the first time one of the Strain Hunter videos and am amazed at all these guys do. They are fine examples of hard workers. I admire the energy. I am so tired of people thinking that everyone who smokes cannabis is nothing but a lazy stoner. I have witnessed the opposite in a huge room full of many who smoke Cannabis daily - these guys are far from stoners. They are very HARD working business men (and a few women). They are professional and educated with what they do. They are also passionate and there passion has gotten them where they are today. They are some of the best in the industry. As we say in Canada Eh.. The Union ;-)
Mr. Birzle:   I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Birzle from ROOR. His passion has him producing some of the best glass in the industry - you can see him make some of the Cups for the treating Yourself EXPO on the ROOR website: http://www.roor.de
I have to say I was honored when Mr. Birzle asked me a few questions and then returned with my very own ROOR picked by the master himself! It is a beautiful collection for my studio and I am thrilled to own a ROOR. Now if I can just keep Storm away from it hee hee hee (me and Martin Below) I also met one of his colleague's Laszlo, another person who never stopped working each time I saw him. From what I saw it is no wonder they are a successful business.
RUSS:   Russ was a great guy, he informed us about Graves disease. His eyes buldge (photo below) I have to say when Storm and I looked at this photo we giggled. I was worried how I now appear but here is this guy who has lived most of his life with this condition. It was an awakening moment. I am not making a face on purpose and Russ - his eyes not so bad as he was medicated. He showed us what he looks like when he is not medicated and said he has had difficulty all his life with even children being frighteneed of his appearance. If you had the pleasure of talking to Russ, he was informative and funny. A nice guy. Sad he is having such a difficult time finding a Dr. to prescribe Cannabis for him.
He made us laugh and educated us.. watch for a toon soon about Russ.
Mark: Mark gets a lot of attention for the Cannabis movement in a completely different way. He is out there making people smile every event. I don't want to say WHO Mark is you'll have to figure that out on your own. HE works very hard, is non stop and I also am impressed with his energy and dedication. He is very creative and I am please to have got to know him.
THREE very different men.
ALL use Cannabis NONE of them - what I would consider a "stoner".
Did I see any stoners at the EXPO ? Well I could say I did see the 'stereo typical' stoners -I think really they were mostly young guys, not educated on the whole cannabis industry - just out for a good time. They were all laid back, none of them nasty... I had a few comments same as last year - "your sons legal? That's cool man!" To which I relpy
"Really? Which part is 'cool' the part he is legal to use cannabis for his medicine or the fact that he has a terminal illness?" I am NOT saying this to be mean, just expressing the fact hoping they realize that not everyone is about getting stoned sitting on the sofa eating munchies playing video games. All in all, I saw VERY few stoners at the Treating Yourself Medicinal Marijuana EXPO. Change is in the air and its all good ;-))
Below: Just a few of my favorite men I met at this years EXPO. Can't wait to see them again next YEAR!!

Treating Yourself EXPO part2: Compassion

7/6/2011

Compassion Clubs. THIS is the place to find a compassion club! When Storm first became legal we did not know which way to turn. A couple of clubs I called never returned our calls and one did not take me seriously when I told them my son was 15. Luckily one did it was C.A.L.M. We were blessed to have an orientation and all other meeting with our now friend Gabe. He quickly realize how smart Storm was and educated him and continues to do so to this day. We were not there to get high - we were there to help control my sons pain and learn about his medicine. I still am amazed at the many strains for so many pains!
As we learn we continue to share our experiences with our Dr. and educate him on the process of compassion clubs. Actually, I tell every Dr. I see. ;-). Looking back I think how amazing it would have been (hopefully will be) when one day Health Canada includes a brochure that educated more on the different strains and how Cannabis works, also nice would be a package with brochures for compassion clubs. The last thing you should have to do when you are already sick is start to have to figure all this out. IF you want to be educated on Compassion Clubs the EXPO was the place to be.
At one point during the expo I turned a corner and there they all sat having a serious conversation - the main guys from several clubs! Just seeing them all working together I could feel my heart swell - I could feel HOPE. I have had the pleasure now of meeting several of them personally. They are all wonderful, professional and compassionate men themselves. **from time to time you will hear about someone who went to a club and had shady dealings, was treated poorly, received poor medicine. DO YOUR research- talk to other patients - find out who they deal with, then simply - avoid the clubs that do not have a good reputation. There are always going to be clubs like that - just like there is always going to be a car dealership to sell you lemons! I am adding a page to my website called EDUCATE yourself. Documentaries, Compassion clubs, web sites etc.. I will try to list only those I know or have heard good things about but again you have to be responsible for your own actions and experiences. I hope it will make it a little easier - *now I just need to find all the business cards from all the wonderful people I met.

The main thing I heard from people visiting the EXPO was "my Dr. said no -" then I ask them how did you ask.. they said I just asked. If you want to use Cannabis then educate your Dr.
Go prepared. Have a file folder with all the proof on how Cannabis would benefit your condition, THERE is all kids of documentation, sites and information you can print and present to your Dr. If after that they say no ask them WHY.
Ask them about the Hippocratic Oath they took. What ever it takes...
IF you believe Cannabis helps you then be prepared to explain why. Be educated.
Below is one of the best examples I have met of an educated man who can tell you why Cannabis is medicine! He inspires and motivates. He has worked very hard to be where he is today. It was an honor for Storm and I to meet him. His name is Irvin Rosenfeld
He is LIVING Proof ;-) to learn more bout him - click here:
http://mymedicinethebook.com

one note: I look at these photo and at first I got a bit sad about my face and my twitch- I met so many people with things going on, some you could see some you could not - I was educated and I thought to myself... when I took these photos I was smiling in my mind!
That is all that matters. Not what the camera catches but what we feel inside. xox
I felt the love ;-)

Treating Yourself EXPO 2011 part one

6/6/2011

I say PART ONE because there was just so FRICKEN much stuff going on! It's going to take me a few and I met so many amazing people I want to thank them properly so here is what a Treating Yourself Medical Marijuana Expo is like:
First I want to get right to it and thank Marco Renda. I met Marco after I started drawing for the magazine Treating Yourself. A few times over the past 2 years, I can say Marco and I become friends. ;-) If you get to know Marco you quickly realize he does not bother with bullshit. Last year, with short notice he presented us with Treating Yourself Expo 2010. I was concerned because I have heard of Marijuana Expos with girls dancing from poles with boobies and bud, nude fashion shows and more and that is not the direction I want to go. This is my son's medicine. Well last years Expo was great but this years was fantastic!
So many venders. Seeds, grow, compassion clubs, bakeries, clothing, glass art, activists, patients, KNOWLEDGE and EDUCATION. If you want to learn about Medicinal Cannabis THIS is the place to be!! Thank you Marco for making it HAPPEN! Marco is also a patient, I think many people forget that. He knows how important his medicine is to him. I know how important it is to Storm.
Below are photos of my booth, when I came up that escalator and saw my booth I started to cry - which made Norman and Storm laugh. WOW! This is the only event we attend and the only time I really show my work. I am determined more than anything to share with others what we know to be true! Especially parents with terminally ill children or children suffering with chronic pain. I have dreams that if you take your child to the hospital with a broken arm.. before they pump chemicals into them they offer a natural plant cannabis brownie! IMAGINE!! THE Safer alternative! Well, I was honored. I still sit here and shake my head and thank God for people like the people I met at the EXPO and Marco. I came home STRONGER and even more determined! - LOL -also extremely tired ...the show went from 9 to 8 and I wanted to be able each day to give my best so I was in bed each night at 10 * I will admit I wanted to party a few nights = especially with my friend Candice, but remembering why I'm here I did not. The EXPO was professional, educational and fun. I met so many wonderful people, other venders and patients and just people curious. I will be speaking about them all, Jodie Emery, Irvin, Friends, fans, ROOR, Grow bot, Russ, Todd, Sean, Laurentine, Benny, Kevin, Dean, Adam, CALM, AMY - that cute guy from montreal, Franco from green house, stuff!- and posting photos. On the drive home Storm and I talked all the way - we had the best time... Laughs at the Hard Rock, manning the booth, sharing a SMALLl room! Josh and chairs.. Candice and cookies and COTTON candy! But right now I must go to bed!
Marco - THANK you for giving me - giving Toronto the best opportunity to be educated about medicinal Cannabis and help making this ONE step closer to reality. Once people are educated they can not deny. So I hope you stay tooned and learn a little more about what a medicinal marijuana EXPO is all about. Can't wait for EXPO 2012.

I AM ready! I think...

31/5/2011

Well, Thursday we go set up for the EXPO - I guess I am as ready as I am going to be.
I've got my hand painted purses, Originals, Minis (matted) - COMIC books! A few hand painted T's, sketch book - stuff! ;-) Yesterday I hung out with the creator of The Green Reefer, Joshua Boulet all the way from Texas. He is staying with us until the expo. We talked about how excited we are and discussed a few comic ideas for future toons. We also each drew a cartoons and posted them on FB. Sitting by the pool - funny thing the pool has no water in it! LOL The first time since we got it it has not been opened yet! LATE delivery of pool liner.. But it's still a great spot to sit and chat and sketch! It's not every day you get to hang out with a comic super hero ;-)
Now ready for the EXPO I just want to be there! Seeing all the people from last year and meeting some new faces! Having Josh stay has been interesting and fun! ;-) I was shocked to hear that in TEXAS you can go to jail for having a roach! How sad it that? To have your life ruined by smoking a joint. A crime worth going to jail for? NEVER.
I really hope to get my message across this time - I am more experienced (a little shy) but I realize this is my opportunity ( Thank you Marco Renda- who is also a patient and knows better than most the importance of his medicine ) to tell people what we know. To help get out the message. I need to take only one look at my son and I am reminded why I am here doing what I am doing.
Not sure I'll get much of a chance to blog until after the EXPO now - but I will be posting photos and sharing stories after so I hope you continue to check in.. A purse at the EXPO - this one is MINE ;-) I have only a couple for sale so if your interested come see me early! ;-)
Ready or not here we come! ;-))
You can purchase only if you promise to carry it LOUD and PROUD!

Treating Yourself Medical Marijuana EXPO! FREE SAMPLES!??

28/5/2011

A week today I will be at the EXPO. It starts next Friday (less than a week) - and like MOST artists I know I am still doing stuff!! Last minute - me and my Sherpa are hard at it
;-) I had an idea last year just before the expo that was a huge hit. Imagine your at an Cannabis EXPO and someone offers you a "little baggie full of dried green stuff"! That is exactly what I did last year and I had them running to my booth when their eyes caught my samples! On the other side of the baggie is my business card (below) and it says on it CATNIP> L.O.L That is what I give out CATNIP for your furry feline friends. It usually gives everyone quite a chuckle once they realize it is Not what they thought it was. So it's a nice ice breaker! I also have to say most people laughed and kept my business cards - most people have cats! So it is a great idea if I do say so myself for pennies ;-) and I'm making many little kitties happier! hee hee hee

This EXPO is about many things to US.
ONE: EDUCATION for us to become educated and hopefully to Educate a few people. A better word would be to share our experience and encourage people to Educate themselves. It is the only way you truly learn something when you are curious to do so. We all know that from all the useless stuff we learned in High School ;-) We learned best what we were most interested in. I have patients come and share info with me. Some have become good friends.Last year Storm learned about a few different strains that really helped with his "body pain". When you are in chronic pain it is nice to be able to control the body pain and some strains also make you feel good too. THIS is very important. It makes me shake my head when they (BIG PHARM) says they can make cannabis that takes the "high" feeling out.
When you suffer with health issues you have much to think about. A little mental feel GOOD is just as important as the physical aspects. Ask anyone who is suffering with pain daily in their life. How it can take its toll on you some days. Sadly some people it takes it's toll on them and they no longer feel they can continue.
TWO: FUN!!!
We get so socialize, see friends that we don't get to see that often! Check out all the cool stuff, cannabis related and other, get some amazing clothing. I am going to invest in something HEMP for myself ;-) Storm gets to meet some incredible people who love Gardening and Cannabis. People who really know their stuff and are as passionate as he is. His passion is learning about the plant. It always has been - you should see our vegetable garden this year! ;-)) We laugh - I get to hang with the Green Reefer who make me laugh all the time with his simple e mails over the past year - he is coming to visit us tomorrow for a couple of days! I did not warn him that this is a house that does NOT sleep in.. hee hee
*the one thing is Norm does not get to come. We have a house full of animals! HOPE is a full time puppy!! So Norm stays home - Not to mention he has to get that pool ready for the HOT weather we are expecting!! LOL But I talk to him all the time and he is my sherpa - with set up and take down - He is also my personal set design and PROP man! LOL - I am so FRICKIN LUCKY! And he works for - peanuts .. wink wink, nudge nudge...

So I better get back to work and print my business cards I certainly don't want to let down any FELINE friends this year! * If anyone grows catnap and wants to donate some in exchange for some free advertising let me know for next year! This year is already bigger and better than last year so you know its just going to continue! Perhaps next year it will be legal! Perhaps one day I can hand out free sample of God's natural healing medicine! !! IMAGINE!

COME see me for your FREE FELINE Friendly SAMPLE :-)

Ahhhh... the sights and smells of spring!

14/5/2011

I woke up this morning and there are leaves on the trees! How does that happen!? Even my husband commented they were not there yesterday! I can smell the dirt and the rain and LOVE every second of it! Summer around the corner. Give me heat over snow anyday. I LOVE Canada and our seasons but this past winter seemed like an especially long and cold one. Our puppy - after only one week is house trained! I do not - or ever have crated my dogs. I just make sure they have a lot of attention especially the first week! It means I am POOPED but - The quicker you let them know how its going to be the better!
It's a rainy day - I'm painting some details on a Prop. for the TY EXPO! And doing what else - some drawing.. in between helping hubby, playing with my girls and doing domestic.
I must remember to stop and look at the LEAVES!

NEW Treating Yourself magazine out!

16/12/2010

Storm braved the snow to the mailbox for me. If you do not know I do not like snow! LOVELY to look at but thats about it. I live in Canada and do not know how to ice skate. The mail box - just around the corner had what I was waiting for! The new Treating Yourself magazine!!
Before I was in treating Yourself ( The happy Hippie) we would buy it at the corner store because we found it to be one of the most informative, educational and entertaining magazine out there. I read it from cover to cover. Before TY it was Oprah ;-)

Now my strip The happy Hippie has been in the magazine since issue 16, 2009. I can't tell you how THRILLING it is a a cartoonist to pick up a magazine and see your work in it! BUT to have a magazine that you believe in, Inspires you! It's a dream come true.

I feel blessed to be in Treating Yourself. Over the years I take copies to Dr.s, give them to friends to read and leave it out on my coffee table for all to browse. I am PROUD to be a cartoonist but I am even prouder to be someone that might make people smile and think about Cannabis.

6 years ago I set out to become a syndicated cartoonist! Little did I know that a few years later, It is not about syndication but more importantly about bringing an awareness to others about Cannabis as medicine. I know first hand what Cannabis can do. I witness it every day. God has put us on this path (Thank you!) I get to use my gift - that brings me happiness and peace! My son gets pain relief from Cannabis.

Last week someone sent me a copy of TY in the mail to please autograph!
WOW! How cool was that!? It included a SASE to send it back to The U.S.A. I was honored and slipped in a matted toon to say thanks!

If you get a chance pick up your copy and see why I am so proud.
I do not even submit my work to the syndications anymore. I am quite content doing what I am doing. It is with LOVE and that is all that matters.
Time to go make a tea, snuggle with my new magazine and have a good read and get inspired!

I'll keep a marker in my purse just incase you want your copy signed !

hee hee