Are you Marching today!? www.womensmarch.com
Please Do if you are able!!
If not please help make others aware of the issues women are marching for today! 
I JUST read of some Canadian women denied entry into the USA because they said they were going to the MARCH! WTF?
www.theguardian.com/world/2017/jan/20/womens-march-canada-protesters-denied-entry-us
Have Faith
<><
xox

As they say on Instagram.. happy Caturday!  Perfect timing as I painted this last night!
Kat & I go way back as you might know (if you read this blog faithfully- lol)  she's been framing my art for over 30 years.. we met many moons ago, became friends and still remain. Not nearly as close as we once were - but that's life.. if we only kept 'old friends close' we would never meet new people. We grew. 
I wanted to thank her, she'd done a lot of framing & does give me a deal.. ;) perks with 30 years of service, friendship, bitching, crying, laughing.. etc! lol  I usually just send her the work and say frame it. I trust her experience. Her ART. 
I broke a cardinal rule with Kat recently - it's my own fault.  In my excitement I asked her to frame something for someone - 'they would be good for it!'  Turns out they might have changed their mind as Kat's not heard anything  now that the piece has been ready a few weeks - oh well.  
Frig, lesson learned, I apologized, it's not how we work after 30 years.  It's all good! I bought the piece off Kat- for a deal - lol! I will hang it in my office as a reminder.  Looking forward to it actually.  'Don't fall for it, don't take it personal Georgia.  Lesson learned.'

Kat knows actually it was more than not picking the piece up.. I was hurt' I'm so silly sometimes I could smack myself.  People change their mind, even about my art. lol  
Deal with it, move on and focus on what is important.  If I 'quit' every time I had a setback, I would have stopped drawing years ago.  
This past few days I've had a few personal set backs.. cry or draw.  
I choose to paint.

Recently, I noticed on Johns page (of Skunk Magazine) they asked who is a 'Canadian Activist' who has made a difference.. lol - I didn't see my name. I thought- I've been drawing almost 10 years now about cannabis awareness but can't seem to be 'recognized as contributing'?   LOL    
Please. 
If I let that shit stop me I would have given up long ago.
I draw for the love of my son - first and foremost- I don't need any recognition beyond that.  I get it.  I'm mentioning this because I commented on a few people I thought qualified:
Ted, Gail (R.I.P), Owen, John, Kirk, Kelly, Adam.. then I signed off and thought - that was stupid- you fell into the trap that you don't like yourself!
There are too many to mention! I don't want anyone to feel left out- like I usually do.  
To the point, in the future I won't name anyone.
Al Graham, Dori, Patricia, that grumpy old guy- I can't remember his name..   it hit me after I 'hit comment' .. they have been trying for as long as I have been watching and also don't seem to get any recognition.  Thankfully they don't stop. 
Just one person I might of forgot - made me think 'this is bullshit'.  
For everyone out there who feels they are not being 'appreciated'  - FUCK it!
Keep going! FORWARD.  I appreciate you!  Tell them you appreciate all they have done.

I don't need a magazine article/facebook comment to validate what I do.
I draw for Love. That is enough.

On a positive note!
My hair looks great! Holy, it has a lot of silver streaks, I like it short- why do I resist! lol
& I have a new framed artwork to hang! LOL - Still ONE of my personal favourites.
;) & Im drawing a new cannabis cartoon! lol
​BRING this day on! 

Have Faith! 
<><
xox

My good friend Todd Stimson (still incarcerated in  the USA for cannabis- legal lies)  is married to Kerry. This tiny little shell of a woman- right!  Kick ass Kerry - she is strong, determined and a down to earth woman effected more than most on this F&^%ing  lie of a War of Drugs - WAR on Us.  I saw her comment online one day..  "Sweep off your own porch before you come inspecting mine!" It stuck with me.  
I was not sweepingly own porch.  I am learning - everyday I breath - thank God.
So, here I am drawing how bad African Americans have it across the border (and they do!) but then I started to hear we were worse!  Gasp? How is that?
We treat and have treated our Aboriginal people like they are nothing. 
How ashamed I feel - ashamed: I had no clue.
Was I aware before 'The Hip mention', yes.. look into Human trafficking.  
Where you aware? Are you aware?

Who does not know about missing aboriginal women, to think of it is heart wrenching, so it's time to draw about it.  I don't know how.. how so it will bring justice to artwork & individuals.. for the lives of so many lovely, lost souls.. being born into generations of abuse- abuse of alcohol, abuse of the system- supposedly in place to protect them- to protect ALL Canadians, abuse by more than I can even imagine to know about. 
I read this article in a Dr.s office a few weeks ago:
http://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/canadas-prisons-are-the-new-residential-schools/
Most are in jail for NON-violent crimes. IF only we took some of the money to put people into jail & help them instead with education and support.  Money wasted on the Drug WAR.
When you know better. Do better. 

I am reaching a point personally I can tell you, though my education on cannabis - what I read happening around the world. Just F*cking legalize it, enough already and stop putting people behind bars because of  it! So many poor, disadvantaged people already being taken  and thrown behind bars, WE should ALL feel ashamed and continue to do so until WE all speak up and demand it end.  Imagine the kids- the newest generation waiting.. to go to jail. Kids who never get to get a break from the start because the color of their skin. Fact. 


Have Faith
<>< xox

Since, I have several people appearing to enjoy the time-lapse besides myself, comments, messages and a couple of e mail have assured me so. -I decided to try a How to:
Draw a  Cannabis leaf.  One that is far from perfect.
The reason being, no stress.. just play- its going to take you a few times perhaps to get it looking like mine. Every time you try it gets easier! 
The supplies needed:   Ruler,  paper water color paper/card stock
                                            Pencil, eraser,  paint brush - a few sizes is always good.
                                            Green and yellow paint .  circle tracer ?-
                                     something that traces a circle I use this  
                                      'circle plate cover' for all my drawings.
​                                                It was handy.   & HAVE some fun!  Music helps!  

*note you can substitute Gouache for Poster Paint - the much more affordable brand -nothing fancy, or use paint from the dollar store, just get one color if you want. Green. ;)   Actually the Cannbis leaf is very distinct - you can really get away with painting any color leaf if you  follow the shape closely.  I painted the background yellow, so you could easily see the green and what I was doing. Feel free to miss this step completely.
I hope it makes it easier so you will indeed want to paint your own cannabis leaf cards!
Put on some good music and relax!

To watch the  Vimeo clip of the Cannabis leaf  go here:
https://vimeo.com/181272791  vimeo.com/181272791  
or Face book or Instagram.  Have fun

Ending on a positive note:
I was high out in the garden today.. on life it appeared.  
I could not escape the overwhelming imaginings going on in my head, songs stuck in my head.. been buzzing, the hot sun, cool in the shade kinda day had me smiling & drifting places I believe I needed to go. Someone watching  would have expected me to spit out a bird.   The grasshoppers where all gossiping.  
It felt fantastic- I decided to just go with it - take it all in... every second.
Breath deep and  Enjoy..    
I thank God for my fantastic imagination...  I was high out in the garden.
No drugs were needed.  

Time to paint.

have faith
​xox <>< 

I was recently asked if I would share this infographic from:
Jason Adams @ [email protected] 
​It is 'clean', easy  to visualize, understand and includes informative links so that
YOU may research it for yourself!  
Knowledge is power.   
If you have any questions or concerns, I suggest you ask Jason. 

Ending on positive notes..  
I'm about to do the fine sketch for The Cannabis Digests Fall Cover!
Which means it will be complete before the end of the weekend
*a long weekend here in Canada!   WoooooHooo!!  
Not that it really matters to me, I get to draw every day and that means...
every day is a weekend.

I woke at 5 this a.m. and looked out my window - the stars were so beautiful I went out & stood in the dark in PEACE, in the middle of the vegetable garden..   it was exhilarating.
Poppy would beg to differ.

Have Faith
<><
xox

As you might know,I'm out of the FB bubble... lol - my son told me this a.m.  Dana Larson
was arrested for GIVING away seeds.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/dana-larsen-custody-pot-seed-handout-tour-1.3524504
GOOD FOR HIM!! I wanted to do this a couple years back! I drew a cartoon about it - Free seeds with every comic but my friend Marco informed me it wouldn't be wise as 'I could be arrested' even though I was giving them away for FREE.  I thought then it was ridiclous and still do!  Already - tax payers dollars are NOW being wasted! AGAIN.  Seriously - have we nothing better to focus on!? 
The police will give a statement on this- big deal-  what can they possibly say?
He was giving away free seeds. Many will never get planted.   Seed for a PLANT that  has never  killed anyone - it is not poisonous - as a matter of fact the USA government has taken the patent out on it for its medicinal values- yet greedy politicians  in the USA also still send  people to jail over plants.  A Plant never been linked to a death  only helps many  feel better - I KNOW.
How much money do you think it has already cost us?
Here is a good article McLeans wrote back in 2013!  Phbbbbt.  http://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/why-its-time-to-legalize-marijuana/
 2016 and arrested for seeds!
What judge will see this in court?  
I'm reading about people growing who are getting  $5. fines and then tossed out of court.  
If ONLY our money was going towards education, healthcare, hunger, jobs.. GEEZE!
Put the money towards 'potholes' would be better productive!  No.. lets 'bust' someone for GIVING away seeds. What ever dufus made that decision.. seriously needs to be educated on cannabis and empathy towards others.

Me.. I'm painting, learning gouache, drawing a cartoon, and painting a birdhouse...
​How about YOU?  

Believe
xox
​<>< 

Yesterday I received a letter from Todd. Instantly I had a sinking feeling..   for several reasons.  I had not wrote in a bit & last time I did, I was a mess and he was my distraction.
I realize now it was for a reason as usual.  I did apologize, Kerry since spoke with Todd and explained and Todd does indeed understand.

His letter was to 'cheer me up', last he had  heard my cousin had been in a serious accident and he told me about his own brother who had been in a terrible accident and had also been in a coma for a while and he wanted me not to worry. That is Todd. 
If you have been following the blog Todd is my American friend I met a few EXPO's back ;) 
(I wish I had been better at tagging my blogs) We met at my booth, something he had said, he challenged me on something and that was it.  From there we became friends.  E mail, and then in person a couple of times. I was fortunate enough to meet them for diner with Storm, the entire family.

Since, I've seen a family torn apart.  Over plants. 
Plants Todd had purchased Tax stamps for.
I have a couple of them - souvenirs.  So when  the SWAT team broke into his home, held a gun to his daughters head... I truly believed, someone had made a serious mistake and it was not Todd.  Todd's youngest daughter became ill and cancer was discovered,  it was so quick - she had already had surgery, treatment and is on her way to feeling better, the stress now with her dad in jail, I bet has more than just me worried.  Sierra - well she is on her own path right now, I hope later she has no regrets.  Don't we all.  
Kerry - Todd's wife - well she is tiny and mighty.  LOL She will be o.k. &  getting Todds 'behind in line' as soon as he is FREE.
WHY is he in JAIL!?
Tell me what part of this toon is not true? I'm just being blunt.
I'm bored of the rock stars/famous that brag about cannabis and I get upset when they joke about being 'medicinal' - to be BLUNT. Well, when I took it personally.. which I no longer do. lol.  You soon learn not to.  Everyone else is bored too.

Dr.Gupta- all over the USA now you read about it - what we have been saying for years -  why do you think parents & patients are fighting so hard? Demanding. 
WE SEE HOW IT WORKS!! WE SEE IT SAVES our childrens lives & importantly it has prevented other poisons going into the bodies of our kids.  Amen.
Don't believe me? WATCH it for yourself- Google Dr.Gupta Weeds Doc. or even easier... click on the link.  You will learn something I guarantee.  It's an on going battle, one, I am personally exhausted from fighting. Until I got Todds letter.  

Originally the cartoon said - thousands 'get it' in the mail, I thought to myself  'ha,  the 'legal ones'.  You can believe the number is in the 100s of thousands and growing by the minute. 
SO WHY is Todd in Jail - I did not even have room on the cartoon about the growing business I'm reading about - one after the other from soft drinks to the newest  'vapour bar/clubs' opening up - legally...  so WHY  is Todd in jail? 
This is NOT just a USA thing - It is an US thing. 
Todd carried a plant  across a couple  of states to bring attention. What have you done?

Now he is in jail, sick, tired and bummed or I think the American way is 'Blue' to put it mildly.  WHY? For paying taxes on plants? 
The government knew exactly what he was growing and for how long.
Why is Todd in Jail.

Someone has to make money somehow $$$$$$$.

Todd is in jail over a plant. He is a good guy, no saint but not a sinner by far.  He is a good dad and loved husband  that should be at home with his family, growing Lillies. Not sitting in a cell, getting sick because he has never gone this long without working!  Not writing me letters to cheer me up ;(.  I love him.  He knows it. The family knows it.  Just hearing it had me crying - I could not believe he would go to jail. I believe there is good in everything. 
He went to jail as the rest of America starts to embrace the plant. 
 
Right now - I'm caught with that, as a few around me struggle with the loss of dads. 
A dad in jail.. still better than a dad in the grave.  

Please support Todd. A card! A hello note! A post card! 
If you don't know what to say 
Write: 
Hi Todd! 
Support from (put where you live)  
and your name. 
That simple! 

I hope he gets a lot of mail from all over! 
He is such a good person - I bet he will be out sooner  - for good behaviour!
I wrote today and will again in a couple more. I'm sending a copy of the cartoon. 
I hope he gets it I don't see why not. 
Even prison guards know its  all about the $$$,  I hope they relax at the end of a day with cannabis rather than alcohol, it is a stressful job they have.

Here is the address:
Todd Stimson#0391125
F.M.C.U. 3720
5150 Western Ave
Morganton, NC 2865
USA

You can also support him on Facebook:
Todd Stimson  or click on the link below.

I don't know why.

Have Faith 
xox <>< 

My friend Todd...
I have blogged about Todd before. I believe everything and everyone for a reason. I first met Todd at an EXPO and he 'called me' on something -  something I offered in my newsletter-  to make a long story short - he got my attention, we struck up a conversation and today I am honored to call him and his family friends.  

Todd GREW Cannabis legally in the united states.
HE DID. 
By paying for tax stamps! I have one right here on my desk to remind me daily of the injustise my friend faces (in the image above) Tennessee Department of Revenue -UNAUTHORIZED SUBSTANCE STAMP(s).. and guess what friends, they don't come cheap.  Todd has been playing by the rules, openly goes & pays for his stamps and they know what he has been growing. Todd even has a website he promotes- In other words...
*** IT'S BEEN NO BIG SECRET -  BUT not too long ago they still busted his door in and held a gun to his daughters head and arrested Todd.  You can research it all yourself or contact Todd, he has nothing to hide.
Shortly after being busted, his younger daughter Ariel was rushed to hospital  with pain in her abdomen only to find out she had cancer. She has undergone extensive surgeries and  cancer treatments. 
Todd has much going on.. His court date is July 14th. 2014.  
He does not know if he will go to jail very soon and what his he doing - he is MARCHING!  We are close, when this bust happened and I first spoke with Todd, he was frightened (how can one not be), now, I am witnessing a different Todd, one who knows he did nothing wrong and is tired of being pushed around and is tired of watching everyone being pushed around - for what?   NOW - A substance only a couple of states away is celebrated. 
 It is ridiculous!  
I am sure people who know Todd are thinking, why did'nt she draw Todd walking... 
-one of the reasons why I love my friend Todd, his letter starts off with this:

***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?  

We are: 
Accountants, administrative people, farmers, architects, sales representatives, Dr.s & nurses, dentists, florists, health workers, child care workers, bakers, cooks, mechanics, carpenters, brick layers, construction workers, lawyers, parents, teachers, software designers, actors, butchers, assemblers, cleaners, vets, fire fighters, police, real estate agents, dietitians, gardeners, hair dressers, hotel managers, secretaries, technicians, meteorologists, musicians, house painters, pipe fitters, plumbers, roofers, seamen, photographers, surgeons, taxi drivers, travel agents, web designers...  

American Drug War 2. 
http://americandrugwar2.com/  
 We rented it via Apple T.V., Apparently it can be found on youtube. 
We watched  the first of these documentaries a few times, I did, it is very educational and the producers story very honest. IMO. BUT  the second documentary shares also the story of Cashy Hyde.  & his beautiful family.

The bullshit that family had to endure on top of everything else. From medicine to police abuse. That is exactly what it was . OVER A FUCKING PLANT.

Does anyone deserve this over a plant that has never been responsible for a death? Parents who only want to do everything they possibly can to help their child?

I really do think when they said for Storm no treatment, no cure was a blessing in disguise some days. Well, I might think that now, I did NOT then.

What  Cashy endured...  my one fricken surgery (miniscule in comparison) and I am still reeling ;-(  Cashy died the day after my surgery - I did not find out until a few days later.. maybe even a week I don’t  remember, I just remember no one wanted to tell me. Which I am now thankful for. It was a direct blow to my heart.  How could it not be? It was for MILLIONS.  

Cashy  was a miracle, you have no idea and yes he was here for a reason. We are all blessed because of him. Yes, he was a ‘weed warrior,’ sadly we now have a few.  A few little warriors who are suffering with pain, disease as their parents stand and watch helplessly..  and then to fear for your life because a plant you give your child  and eases their pain is ILLEGAL? Alcohol, pills and tobacco are all easily attainable and all deadly?

Is there any wonder I feel I am going mad? How crazy is all of this?
Innocent children are being punished and made to suffer over $$$
We all are. OVER the next big money maker!  Imagine if it was YOUR child.
Google Children on Cannabis  I dare you.

I KNOW. I have living proof and I love him very much.  I am doing this for more than my own son. 

Imagine if it were your child and you knew you could not get him enough medicine, MEDICINE that you KNOW has helped him, eased his pain and could possibly be what is saving his life and  although it is something you should  be able to GROW in your back yard.  THEY COULD NOT.

IT needs to be acknowledged for what it is A VEGETABLE. 
A MIRACLE plant!  Prohibition is not the problem any longer, it is lack of education.
Once more people become educated on the subject, and get away from reefer madness it will only be a matter of time. 

My son says I am naive.  ;(     I’d like to say I STILL believe in US. ❤

Please take the time to watch something that will educate you. 
The American government is educated on the subject of cannabis don’t forget - that’s why they took out the patent on it. FOR its medicinal values.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
xox <><

Mike & Kalli Hyde.  
Rest in Peace Cashy. xox
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rK-5ELuMg5Qhttp://www.cashhydefoundation.com/
Dr. confirms Cannabis cures tumor.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6iba3sEUIg

There is nothing in a caterpillar that tells you it's going to be a butterfly.
R. Buckminster Fuller 

A picture is worth a thousand words...
If you see love in this photo it is because it exists.

My hubby saw this photo and instantly asked “WHO is that?  Looks a little close  to me... “   
All I could think to say is “yes, it does, that is my friend Chris.”  ;) This expo was the first time Chris and I actually met and that photo taken then. We have been friends on FB since 2o10.  I never saw his photo before  the EXPO and had no idea what he looked like. The moment he said ‘Hi'  my heart jumped - CHRIS!  I thought & he is handsome too!  LOL 

When I first met Chris it was online, FB. He was a medical patient and had suffered a very serious accident,  I knew he suffered extensive damage to his face and brain not to mention everywhere else, I had seen photos of his x-rays but I did not know much more...  then  after a few posts, curiosity got the better of me and I asked.  I am learning to be BLUNT - how else do you find stuff out.

Well, the rest is history.  A history filled with questions, likes, comments, shares and more.  
Chris, for some reason I decided to trust and share a few details about my own head pain long before many others even knew what I was dealing with, asking him what strain he suggested for head pain, a few things... I still do ;-) Just the other day I asked: Do you swear more? 

I as you might know if you pay attention to this blog, I have been frightened to say the least, hard not to when you are dealing with something and Dr.s can’t seem to figure it out so.  I ask, he answers.   It has been a God send for me. 
That makes me giggle, Chris and I have a different opinion on God - BUT even that we put aside to discuss other more important stuff! < How it should be.

Who else do you ask? If you don’t know from experience - YOU don’t get it! 
He gets it. Explaining things I am experiencing.  

I was thrilled when I heard he was coming to the EXPO!  I really consider him a friend and I felt it!  I know he cares for me and I him and we just became friends on FB and because of Cannabis! How cool is that?   

That being said I did ask Chris If I could share a few details. I was going to ask him to write a blog but I thought -  no, better to see his answers, up front & honest.  Just as he shared with me and I am so grateful he did.

Below a few photos, I borrowed  from his profile, and a few of our messages... ;-) 

 I asked Chris to share his accident and he did: 
I have my card due to a very serious car vs. snow removal truck in 2003.
I was a passenger that had a 10 wheel dump truck full of snow turn in front of us, crossing our path. He turned illegally (double yellow line) into a parking lot to dump his snow (illegally on private property).
He claimed he did not see us, but that is only possible if he was not looking! There was nothing my friend could do, the truck turned and we hit the side at around 50mph (80k).

There were no airbags and the front of the car was destroyed, the dash actually came & hit me in the face, just under my chin and cracked everything up to my forehead. Lower jaw, upper jaw, cheekbone, eye orbits, nasal everything... it was not pretty.
Botched surgery caused me to need 3 more to adjust my upper jaw to what the idiots had done to the lower by mistake, all because of "god" complexes of certain doctors & the department in general.
Let's just say I do not recommend "teaching hospitals", part of a local university.
My other serious injury was to my brain, I have a frontal lobe TBI which is a real pain in the ass to say the least.
I'm not sure what you know of TBI (Traumatic brain injury), but it is a a serious problem with no solution, every victim will be affected slightly differently and it is invisible, so people just think we are rude, mean, all kinds of things that are associated with bad behavior. That leaves us open to discrimination and more problems. I am 'lucky' (Hurts to say that, because I really don't feel lucky!!) that I was highly functioning before so I compensate well in stress free situations, but it doesn't take too much to make me rattle me. Friends and family relations are strained, I am also really not the same person I was before, I like different music, different people, I dislike some friends and activities...
SO, I use cannabis for pain relief, which helps me a lot. I can do more things with less frustration and it makes me feel less pain to the point where I can think before I act or speak - a common trait with head injuries that can get us into a lot of trouble.
It also helps with anxiety, stress, makes me tolerant and compassionate.
I hope that wasn't too much info lol
Painful topic, once I start it's hard to stop the flow of words, I don't let them out often anymore.
To finish that up, 99.9% of people have no idea when they meet me if for just a few minutes, I hide it well, but after awhile it starts to show that I may not be in complete control of my thoughts, words and actions.
Cannabis gives me as much of those abilities as I can get, no other medication I tried even came close. 

I asked about Strains:
It depends what you mean by brain pain
Headaches? mental fatigue?
I am not the best guy for this, my brain is in hyper vigilance mode due to a TBI, so I can intake massive amounts of any indica with no negative effects. Makes me sleepy, but so does having a TBI.
What they do to me is different from what they do to most ppl.
I avoid sativas cuz they make me even more hyper vigilant, jumpy, annoying ... lol

If I had to name one strain for most brain issues, anxiety, epilepsy... -->Sensi Star. It covers a wide range of issues, seizures are one of them, which I do not have, but the same soothing effect it gives an epileptic, it can provide to me.  Hope that helps a bit 
...
Hi Georgia,
Secrets are safe with me
I hope the neuro can provide some good info, that sort of thing is complicated for sure. I have a brain injury so whenever I have issues with my eyes, speech, tingles, nerve pain, twitches... it is hard to know from where it actually starts.
I know an epileptic that swears he can take a few drops of Sensi Star tincture at the onset of a seizure (wife puts it under his tongue) and he almost instantly stops the seizures! Sensi Star may be the right strain for you, although they do have slightly different effects on each person.
Tinctures or eating it may also have an added benefit over inhaling for your purpose. I hope you find the strain you need

In between these e mail, we shared cute photos, jokes, toons, informative Cannabis info and Chris always supported my toons and work. He went even further to help me heal by sharing his advice on Hemp Products > Good for the BRAIN! - he sent me some AWESOME Hemp oil and that AMAZING honey  (by mr. Cookie - Brain) that is a terrific appetite stimulant! Helped me pack on a few pounds, after surgery I lost another 14!   I needed it. He still sends me tips and info for arthritis - something we also share.

That is all I will share with all of you...  it has been one of the best lessons for me,  you can make real, special friendships on FB. 
Strangers are willing to help!  ASK! Who knew!?
♥ You might be blessed to even meet them in real life! Chris thanked me over the years for inspiration.. I often wonder when someone comes into our lives is it for our advantage or theirs? BOTH. We are here to serve, help, assist, and share with each other.

Do you see love in that photo? I do ;-)  
Not the kind of love that first comes to mind, but one of two people who care for each other and want to help each other.   

All this week I keep thinking who knew, 4 years ago FB Friends you made would become real life friends. A drawing you did would be turned into glass by other artists?
 WHO knew!?  A caterpillar turned into butterfly.

 ONE LOVE! 
 Brought together by a PLANT! 

I hope Chris and I continue to be even better friends as the years go on, he really has been a life/sanity saver for me the past few years and I am blessed to call him friend.
I grateful Chris and his bud (also a nice guy - got to meet him too at the EXPO) - are still here with us today 
Lucky me!
xox <><

*** I discuss many blogs with my guys, and sometimes special friends before I publish.. I got a 'that seems pretty personal..'   WHY? Because I express  love for a friend, another human? Too often all we hear is negative. It surrounds us. We hate this and that...  I have no more room or time for it. Not a day goes by in this house were we don't say I love you to each other...  Storm and I every time he leaves or says goodbye - he throws in an I love you!  What an awesome way to end a conversation. ;-) Until we see that person again.
I'm done, If you make me happy your going to know it! I don't care if the world knows it. 
 Maybe if Chris and I hung out more, I'd see more of the side he mentions -  I have a hard time imagining (because he has only ever been nice to me) even then - because he shared with me,  I KNOW to be patient & understanding,  we are all far from perfect. 

We should share with people - It avoids a lot of guessing. ♥

We all know someone who or knows directly a police officer who does not agree with Cannabis laws. I have met a few "I don't agree with it, it's my job"  Tough call.  Yes, we need our jobs, we need to pay bills and provide for our families but what happens when it becomes one of your kids who is up on Cannabis charges? Will your tune then change or if you are a politician (who is a complete hypocrite) will you have the charges dropped: http://gothamist.com/2013/04/26/medical_marijuana-hating_assemblyma_1.php

Educate yourself.  Many police are admitting - finally- that they too should be doing more important things!  L.E.A.P = http://www.leap.cc/  is a fantastic organization that promotes education on drug prohibition and it's failing history. There are Judges, police officers and politicians that, when they feel they can - when their job is no longer on the line, will admit to Cannabis being a waste of time and money.  Listen to the former police captain: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8yYJ_oV6xk
I for one look forward to the day when they can return to serving and protecting instead of bulling and beating over Cannabis, a plant.    
xox <><  

A guest Blog that I enjoyed reading and thought worth sharing!  xox <><

Catch-422
By John Dvorak, Hempologist  See more @ : http://www.hempology.org/CANNABISCURRICULUM.html

With a tip of my hempen chapeau to Joseph Heller, our government has created a phenomena that I call Catch-422.  They put up as many roadblocks as possible in an effort to stifle our progress and to demonize Cannabis Sativa, a safe and effective natural herbal remedy.  A Kafkaesque melangé  of federal agencies and bloated bureaucracies justify their existence at the expense of the sick and dying, while the beer-bellied, vodka saturated, over-pharmaceuticalized sheeple continue to gulp down oxycontin, viagra and anything else peddled by their kowtowed doctors.   Thousands die EACH YEAR overdosing on alcohol and prescribed drugs, while there isno lethal dose for Cannabis.      

Hundreds of thousands of Americans are arrested each year merely for possessing marijuana because Reefer Madness has infected Congress and rotted the judicial system to its core.  Marijuana’s illegality is justified by calling it a gateway drug that will lead to harder drugs and/or a decaying of a person’s moral fabric:  Catch-422.  In fact, cannabis is proving to be a gateway AWAY from illegal narcotics and debilitating pharmaceuticals.  

The DEA classifies marijuana as a Schedule I narcotic which, by definition, means there is no currently acceptable medical use.  Everyone knows this is total bullshit, but when researchers ask for cannabis to perform studies, they're told they can't have it because, of course, marijuana has no medical use, leaving patients burning in Dante’s inferno of mock compassion: Catch-422.  Their circular logic jerks people around to no end.  

Even some states with medical marijuana laws on the books are imposing outrageous restrictions on the ailments that qualify:  Catch-422.   One of the most egregious examples of this is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which several states refuse to recognize Cannabis for despite its obvious benefits.  And, the Federal government never misses a chance to “pile on” by preventing the Veteran’s Administration from providing Cannabis to the many vets with PTSD.  

A classic Catch-422 is how states delay the implementation of medical marijuana laws, oftentimes parroting the old canard: “think of the children.”   New Jersey’s Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act was signed into law in January, 2010.  However, bureaucratic foot dragging by that state’s Gutless Wonder Governor, Chris Christie, delayed the opening of their first dispensary for almost 3 years.  

Consider this:  A card carrying medical marijuana patient working for a big box store had a minor accident,  failed a drug test and was subsequently fired.  His dismissal was upheld by Michigan's supreme court: Catch-422.  Tragically, a medical marijuana patient who was denied a liver transplant because of his Cannabis use recently passed away:  Catch-422.  We need to fight for people’s basic right to medicate without discrimination.

Another Catch-422 is the “institutional hypocrisy” that  prevents people from coming out of the cannabis closet.  Consider this:  Despite many states passing various Cannabis laws, mere possession of marijuana continues to be a violation of federal law!  It is very difficult for someone to promote an illegal activity.  You expose yourself to public ridicule or worse.  For many, testing positive for Cannabis could result in the loss of their job, government benefits or custody of their children.  Students that are arrested for Cannabis could lose their student loans:  Catch-422.  

Similarly, the IRS has ruled that medical marijuana dispensaries cannot deduct business expenses because possessing and distributing Cannabis violates federal law: Catch-422.    Banks and credit card companies are refusing to do business with dispensaries for the same reason:  Catch-422.   The sad part about this is that dispensaries are proving to be economic engines, hiring people and paying taxes in an otherwise depressed economy.  


The DEA says that hemp is the same as marijuana.  They have tied a Gordian knot of hemp rope, claiming that hemp will confuse the police even though this is not an issue in Canada or Europe where it is legal to grow hemp: Catch-422.  United States Department of Agriculture studies call hemp a niche crop without fully investigating its myriad uses: Catch-422.   Farmers will not grow hemp unless there is a market for it and you can’t sell products unless you can produce them which means you need farmers to grow hemp: Catch-422.  This chicken or the egg situation is a real “pair o’ ducks.”   Thanks to prohibition, we are re-inventing the ENTIRE hemp industry from the ground up.  The sky is limit (think Trillion Dollar Crop!) but it is going to be a long, hard fight for those willing to join the battle.  

We need to recognize these efforts for what they are:  a blatant and callous effort to impede our progress.  Only by identifying and understanding these barriers will we be able to get around or over the obstacles that stand in the way of realizing the full benefits of the humble plant scientifically known as Cannabis Sativa.  Fortunately in the privacy of the voting booth, people are electing to choose cannabis hemp and give a collective middle finger to the powers that be.  

Music for your blog reading enjoyment:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dzs1K3caXJk
Wow, this cartoon smacked me right in the head ;-) Awesome.
It started with a joke from my best bud Cathy.♥ 
I was stressed wondering what to draw for 4/20?! 
The universal day of 
Celebration for Cannabis!!! 
A Plant.
Grown from a seed.
Made by *GOD.
(*original patent holder)


Medical, Recreational, Hemp, Food, Fuel.. 
It's the day and I want to say THANK YOU!  
                                       I have said it so many times, I thank God daily for this Plant! 
Give us this Day our daily Bud...  <3 Wow. YES,   I read recently  how powerful that prayer is;  Give us this dayour daily bread,  -not thanks for yesterday, or make sure I have it tomorrow. Give us THIS day.  Focus on today.
.. and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,
 and that                 ^ ^        ^  That simply put means  ^    ^  ^             :
                                               PEACE, PEOPLE!  
Religion aside... who can argue with those lines?  How else are we going to get ahead, clearly WAR is not the answer! 
Thank you Marvin, now in my head for the rest of the day.
People all around the world who suffer over a plant. A plant less toxic than many others,  proven helpful to ease pain, yet illegal and lives destroyed because of it.    
WTF?   O.M.God.  How disappointing.  
A PLANT.  While others  rape, kill, abuse, terrorize, suffer & starve needlessly... 
enough with the bullshit distraction. 
FOCUS on the REAL problems at hand. 

Rise Up people! Speak up! <3   Celebrate this Plant! Let it be a symbol of change.
It all starts with a SEED!!!  Life.

So.. Yes!
     Give us this Day our daily bud, 
       and thank you Lord  for it!
I do! Everyday! Keeping the Love of my life happy - How could I not give thanks?
Celebrate 4/20, Spread Peace and Love !!! 
- there are already enough assholes doing the opposite;-)


xox <><

by:Jane Grey

Cannabis. To some, it’s medicine, or a drug, or a way to relax. To others, they are indifferent, skeptical about it’s use, or choose not to believe a natural plant that does no harm could do so much good. I used to be one of the skeptics. 

    

Two years ago, my husband was diagnosed with a terminal form of cancer called Merkel Cell Carcinoma found at Stage 4 in his lymph nodes. Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare and fast-growing form of skin cancer that only 1000 people get diagnosed with in North America per year. Doctors know very little about this form of cancer. Normally, a patient's prognosis is grim because 90% of people diagnosed with Merkel Cell Carcinoma are over the age of 60 and are too ill or old to go through extensive chemotherapy or radiation treatment to slow down the rapid growth of Merkel Cell Carcinoma. My husband at the time was only 35 when he received his diagnosis and was expected to only live 3 months.

   

After several chemotherapy treatments his condition worsened, I suggested he try cannabis in hopes it would help him. He was skeptical it would be beneficial, but knew it was no worse than his monthly chemotherapy and medications since I did not have to wear a haz-mat suit to hand him a joint. He found cannabis not only helped pre-existing back pain, but eliminated nausea for up to 4 hours, gave him energy, appetite, helped his depression caused by his diagnosis and was able to re-gain some independence again. I saw cannabis take a man off his death bed quicker than he was put there. Though, cannabis could not help him with recovering between chemotherapy treatments but made life more bearable while going through it. Even years after his chemotherapy is over (and he’s still alive) he is left with a chronic ‘bone ache‘ common with people who have been through chemo, and a loss of energy and appetite he once had prior to his treatments. 

    

Adam found no supportive doctor who would sign his MMAR. Even his oncologist, the doctor that told him he only had 3 months to live suggested he “buy off the street” because what cop would arrest a man with cancer? Well, this doctor was mis-informed. Because they do, violently. Sure, we found some doctors who wanted $500 for a signature, but it was far beyond what we could afford. It made us wonder who exactly could afford $500 a year to have their paperwork signed? Doctors don’t even get paid $500 a visit by Health Canada when you see them. Health Canada’s wages for doctors are posted publicly. Depending on the doctor or circumstance, they receive $60-$120 per visit. Something along these lines are more fair and affordable to someone on a reduced income from CPP Disability, ODSP or a pension. Most people looking to obtain a MMAR are usually on a fixed income, because they’re ill! It shouldn’t be held against them. Also, I think it would be illogical for a doctor to risk their practice and license over $100, even $200. The risk far outweighs the gain, regardless of how much they would make annually from it. However, a doctor that charges $500 up to $1000 to fill out paperwork- which doctor would be more likely to turn a blind eye to someone who is.. not so sick? And, who would be more likely to have this kind of money readily available to pay said doctor?
    
    
Health Canada is considering making changes to the MMAR to take away a patient's right to grow because of criminals. But, how exactly did these criminals obtain a MMAR? I think some of the statistics could be falsified. In Canada, our Charter of Rights and Freedoms gives us freedom of association. And, regardless of what a person does or who they know, because they are a ‘criminal‘ doesn’t make them immune to illnesses, diseases, and getting common conditions associated with age. So if they did actual research, how many would be left out of 20,000 exemptions that are actually using and abusing the system. That paid a doctor to turn a blind eye only to take advantage of the system. And how come, because of so few taking advantage- why are thousands left to suffer?

    

The average monthly income for someone on assistance from disability or retirement ranges from $700-$1500 per month depending on the province, circumstances and where the income is coming from.  Cannabis can currently be grown outdoors for essentially free less the costs of  some nutrients. It can also be grown indoors very inexpensively. However, Health Canada wants to take away this affordability and charge patients $8/g [$500-$2480 per month based on the average prescription of 2g-10g/day]. Most indoor growers will find that they are paying no more than $200/mo additional hydro for a larger indoors grow operation- and someone with a 2g/day prescription and only 10 plants will not generate $500 worth of hydro or nutrients per month. 

    

Health Canada’s proposal is not only inconsiderate, but goes against some basic human rights. If I need medicine- Most have benefit plans or can purchase third party health plan. Depending on the province, if you have low income and would qualify for a provincial disability plan- you can get free health coverage from your own government. If you choose to use holistic remedies, many can be grown in your backyard, or a window ledge for free. But Health Canada has no intention of issuing a BIN number for cannabis, and they are taking away a patients right to grow their own holistic and beneficial medicine for free. Implementing these new regulations will only cost our government more money, because those who receive a lower income will be arrested for continuing to grow because they cannot afford to buy their medication. Daily, cannabis related charges are being withdrawn because many qualifying patients cannot afford or find a supportive doctor and the government does recognize this and does withdraw charges based on health conditions. Should new laws be implemented, the courts would have to recognize and provide the same respect and consideration since a person should not be arrested for being poor. 

    

I think these new regulations would have very little legal standing when brought to court. This does not stop violent police arresting sickly people, and crown attorneys dragging cases out in hopes of finding ‘something’ because they don’t want to lose. But when the decision comes to a judge or jury, no human being could ever send a sick person to jail for not having enough money, even if it was brought as far as a trial. These new regulations would also cost the government more money. I have no doubts people would still continue to grow- and eventually be arrested by police, and have a case dragged out by a crown attorney, and be represented by a legal-aid funded lawyer. All this excess time, efforts and money so a small percentage out of 20,000 people would not be able to sell cannabis. Wouldn’t that same money be better spent on funding efforts on stopping meth and crack dealers, illegal gun sellers, or heck.. Education? 

  

 I have personally been using medicinal cannabis for a year. I had an unsuccessful knee surgery leaving me with chronic pain and difficulty walking; leaving me to rely on the assistance of others just to live.  I also have a nerve disorder causing tremors and chronic nerve pain in my hands, legs and face. Simply typing out this blog post sharing my ideas, experience and opinions is a struggle- without cannabis. I have to use a walker or cane to get around. I also have a digestive disorder that causes sensitivity to almost all medication, and a year prior to using cannabis, I was chronically ill just from taking medications to help some symptoms and in turn would create new ones or worsen pre-existing conditions. Cannabis is the only medicine I have ever taken that helps all my health conditions, and does not make me sick. 

     

There was a me before I was disabled. Everyone had a them before they landed where they are. I had a great job, happy and comfortable lifestyle and just thinking back to when I was able to walk easily where ever I wanted is something I truly miss. One of the last freedoms I have, that I am still physically able to do is grow my own medicine. Do not take away our freedom to grow and access affordable medicine. 

Jane Grey is the author of My Criminal Cure detailing her husband's struggle with cancer, using cannabis as medicine and their legal battle. 


Georgia : Well said Jane! Jane is a friend of FB , I can not wait to read this book. So sad that so many people are suffering and dealing with this crap. I am sure it is just the beginning  of a POTlitical nightmare to come,  thanks to The MMAR program. 
Stay tuned and tooned.. 
xox <>< 

Niki sends me messages from time to time. More support and smiles.  It is friends I have made online that have shared experiences that continue to make me more determined on helping them share their story! Niki made my day when she told me that part of helping her own family understand the issues they are dealing with - they shared Storm's story with their family!
 It made family members have a new outlook. - THAT is why we do what we do. 
Simple ❤ 

Women leading in alternative medicine education
Posted by Niki Smokes

Mainstream media has taken a grip on all of our minds and injected the paradigm of moral medicine. How did we go from drinking teas and eating nutritious foods to care for our organic bodies to accepting manufactured magic bullets as cure-alls? Sad?! ..there's a pill for that. In pain?! ..there's a pill for that. Not ready for parenthood? ..there's a pill for that too.

Cher Kore, AromatherapistAlternative Medicine has been around longer than Big Pharma. Literally thousands of years of prescribed teas and tinctures verses less than hundred years of pills and injections. Why are the pharmacies winning? They have marketing committees yet to be matched. Because media and government are selling you their magic pills and fear of the unknown, we are neglecting to discover the true potential of the ever healing human body.

Today women are taking on that challenge and bringing it to the next level. Emerging in the independent and mainstream media is a new acceptance of natural health care and its ability to assist patients through their most dire struggles. We hear the stories and can briefly catch them in the local news before they are quickly buried under the weather.

Survivors, caretakers and advocates want you realize the miracles happening all over the world. They are here to change your perspective of combining the alternatives with modern medicine.

From Storm's Story in Treating Yourself Magazine Georgia's son Storm was born with a painful and debilitating syndrome called multiple stenosis. Sometimes conventional medicine can be too demanding on a human body.. especially a growing one. Left with very limited choices Georgia decided it was time for an alternative. Cannabis is now Storm's medicine of choice.
"From the first puff, we saw the results, and that is what mattered most to US! Results we had not ever seen with any other medication. Not to mention we did not have a fear of overdoses or liver damage or organs shutting down! From a PLANT!" - Georgia Peschel
Click here to read Storm's Story written by Georgia Peschel in Treating Yourself
Georgia enjoys drawing cartoons chronicling life's fleeting moments and uses her talent to educate about cannabis as an alternative medicine. Check out her blah blah blog!
From "Storm's Story" in Treating Yourself Magazinewww.georgiatoons.com

Cheryl Shuman.. Survivor and advocate.
Cheryl made history with Ricki Lake and brought legal cannabis products to mainstream daytime television onThe Ricki Lake Show. She's a survivor of stage four ovarian cancer and this fighter is not backing down until everyone understands their right to choose.

Cher Kore.. Aromatherapist.
Owner and Scentstrodinaire of Kameleon Healing Aromatherapy, Cher Kore has taught me so much about Aromatherapy and other natural remedies that I use everyday. Local to Boston, Cher is a contributer at FreeMassMedia.com where she blogs about new approaches to alternative healing.

See the actual LINK here: http://www.mikecann.net/2013/01/women-leading-in-alternative-medicine_10.html

Well - as much as I'd like to think it's great minds - it's more like a too common problem on either sides of the planet.;-) I  wrote a blog and was trying to think of how to draw it when I saw one of Ivan's latest cartoons and  - it is exactly how I'm feeling!  My work done for me! 

After my surgery (photo - my badass mama bear scar! - lol no longer visible with hair) I got SICK.  It was a concern before going in- they don't want you heaving etc. when the fluid has just been drained from the brain. They had warned me about anti nausea medication that I would be on after surgery as well as some pain medication. 
I reminded my surgeon I was already on what I believe to be the best nausea medication - (Cannabis) to which he said something along the lines - yeah but we can't have it in the hospital and can't get into that now..
One needs to remember that I was sick- I was not about to argue with a brain surgeon, I just wanted him in and out and it fixed.  LOL - if only! 
                            
                                     You might not 'get that' until you are in my shoes.
                      There are times to pick you battles and that was not one of them.

Anyhow - he did just that - soon after I woke in the recovery room it started. Vomit.  
I could not stop and I was wondering the 3rd day, where the heck is this coming from!? They had  me on intravenous, that and the occasional attempt at a sip of juice was all I had in me... I went from those USELESS, little, liver, shaped spit bowls to my own batch (stack) of recycled compost-able vomit bowls. 
I remember the nurse looked just as upset when she told me yet again - "o.k. were going to try this medication - this one the 'cadillac" of chemo anti-nausea medication! It should work!!!"  It did NOT.  I was still twitching, and now worried about the nasty head ache from vomiting all the time and sore insides I was also getting from all the heaving. 
The 4th day they said I could go - I still had not eaten anything solid - but I nibbled and I wanted OUT of there. Storm brought me a Booster juice - banana - it was perfect I sipped the long drive home. Once home and in bed, vomit. Then I was frightened, at home and still sick...  Norm picked up 2 prescriptions they sent me home with for nausea- I took a couple but still felt sick and then "groogy" from the pills. NOTE: They were also $$$ (we do not have a drug plan) 

Storm came up stairs with a full volcano bag and I won't lie to you - he said to me 
                              "MOM, stop being a hypocrite - here vaporize!"  
I was worried! Nothing else worked, my head spinning, vomiting for 4 days, still recovering from major surgery  -  I took it and inhaled.  
That was it. I was never sick again. Never took a Pill again - I am giving them to a friend who's hubby is suffering with terrible sickness from Chemo. 

 My surgery was not the success I had hoped but I can say that thankfully - for now I appear to be getting breaks when I medicate and when it gets to be too much I can medicate and go nap- try napping with something poking you in the every second... Cannabis lets that happen.  Thank God.

The Dr. mentioned another surgery in the future,  I would not consider it unless I could have my plenty with me when I woke up. I did use my plenty steady as I recovered - I never had to have any pain pills either!! ;D I must say - I dropped that plenty a few times - I am very pleased with it as a product.  I still have some pain and am waken by the twitch very early  so I just turn on the switch, inhale and usually If Im lucky I drift back off.  

Cannabis  is  medicine.  Recognized in this country, prescribed by my Dr., 
But I could not use it in the hospital! ? WTF?
                                                    CHANGES need to be made! 


xox <>< 

Now Is that not the perfect cartoon!!?  I wonder if he was thinking of me ;-) 
Ivan is a friend and mentor and has been since I first started all of this. He was one of the very first people to ever encourage me on my Cannabis mission ;-) I am forever grateful.
He has an awesome book out : Hempathy!
You can find his page on FaceBook  @
https://www.facebook.com/HempathyFoodForThought?
A little bird tells me he also might actually make it to the next TY EXPO! 
I hope so I just love to watch him draw! 

Time to go medicate.

These Canvas's cost pennies to make! Once finished they can make quite an impact! 
What better way to express your feeling with words. IF you don't feel like painting - you could  follow the first few steps and then collage real leaves on the canvas- It of course does not have to be about cannabis.  How cute to do a canvas covered in dog quotes, jokes and saying and then add a silhouette of your favorite canine pal! As with all art the ideas are endless. Have fun  medicate and create- do what brings you peace! ☮♥☯

Today's Hero...  Grant Higgins
I met Grant on FB - bringing the world closer one post at a time ♥
I do not know him, chances are will never meet him but he had my curiosity then my attention ;-) I peeked at his profile and posts and see: a dad, foot ball lover, funny guy and Cannabis activist- who just seems to make too much common sense in my opinion - while still making me laugh and smile. I e mailed him to thank him.  Another FANTASTIC thing is he is on another continent. WOW - Worlds apart (I do not travel much) but we have the same passion and desire to help educate. As always he is BLUNT and to the point- he inspired the toon above and I thank him for speaking up!  
Grant Higgins
Is silence always Golden? Hi im Grant Higgins uk cannabis consumer
i am not apart of anything or any group! 
im just "diffrent" because im a 33 year old recreational cannabis user.
i walk my dog, support my football(soccer) team tottenham and raise my kids.
im a member of the public and i like to think of myself as a NormlUK Citizen.
im surrounded by people of varying ages who consume cannabis everyday.
the oldest consuming friend being in their 60's! 
all working in many different professions and they all use cannabis!
everyone would admit to it freely behind closed doors.
hiding safe in their shelters praying the fate of others does not befall them!
seeing people living in fear almost as if they are ashamed of who they are is saddening.
no victim! no crime!
at this present time in our lives the global comission for the war on drugs and many governments are breaking the taboo and talking about the war on people that consume some drugs.  they are saying it has failed and i hope our government listens.
we all need to be breaking the taboo! and now is that time!
http://www.breakingthetaboo.info/ 
people are dying! and together we have the power to stop this!
cannabis consumers need to come out of their cannabis closets! 
a lot like all the gay people did and stop hiding away!
demand to be treated equally the way black people did!
burning spliffs in public like women did their bras!
as the victimization and prejudice heaped upon cannabis consumers is much the same!
some people are so far in their cannabis closet they are in Narnia!
would they continue with their silence if they were aware of the suffering that it caused?

when children are being stolen from loving parents for consuming a plant?
when a patient is locked away for consuming a safe medicine that works!
or when someone hangs for possessing cannabis?
would none of this make you speak up?
people are dying!

i had a relative die recently.
she had cancer but that is not what took her she was on dialysis also.
rather than suffer and have cancer ruin her the way it did her husband and other family member.  she stopped dialysis and slipped into a coma... 
3 people have had cancer in my family and died.
being a parent myself these days i figured it best to start doing what is best for my health.
i knew that inhaling cigarette smoke can give you cancer and had already quit.
i reasoned that inhaling cannabis smoke would be a probable cause of cancer also.
if this was true then it would give me the insentive i needed to quit inhaling cannabis smoke. to google i took and typed in 'cannabis cancer'.... and waited for the writing to appear on the blank white page

CANNABIS CURES CANCER AND THE US GOVERNMENT HAS KNOWN SINCE 74! was one of the first statments i saw. 
this couldnt be true could it!
my government wouldnt cover up information and research as valuable as that surely!
Would they? i mean if the US knows the uk would know too!
i had to know more! .....keep digging.
turns out most of the evidence was destroyed. 
i then came upon a documentary called RUN FROM THE CURE 
the 2000 study in spain madrid that produced the same results as 74.this has been confirmed in many studies since.
how could a plant that has never killed anyone and have so much potential medically be labled Toxic and lethal in the UK?
why was this not headline news around the world? 
id never heard of cannabis's anti-cancer anti pain properties before!

why are people dying? why is more research not being done!
i felt very alone!
they die because they do not know.
i started posting the links i came across on facebook.
how long has prohibition been getting in the way of research and why is cannabis prohibited?  youll have to make your own minds up.

the responses i got were mixed.  some were upset with me as they didnt want to hear it.
others wanted to know more  some mocked but dont they always?  your just a stoner(and proud!)  and then there was them that have helped me learn what i needed to know.
a big thank you to anyone whose encouraged me kept me grounded and educated me!!
we can do this!
after i posted the links to my profile everyone knew.
even them which deleted me knew and that knowledge can never be undone.
things are changing.the world is changing
together we are breaking the Taboo!

special thanks to -
- Mike Hyde and family for being brave enough to share their life. one love! r.i.p. Cashy
- all the LCA 
- Winston Watthews for standing up for uk cannabis patients and consumers 
- everyone at NormlUK and the UK Cannabis Social Clubs
http://norml-uk.org/ and http://cannabiscure.co.uk/ukcsc/ 
- All the scienists around the world that are researching and utilising cannabis to its fullest potential  and everyone whose sharing their findings.
- georgia toons for all the toons, laughs and seeds of education

dont ever believe you dont make a difference posting, commenting and signing online petitions. you can, you are and you do! 
make some noise and break the taboo!
____________________________________________________________
hope this is what you were looking for. i gave it my best shot. one love.

^^ It is exactly what I was hoping for and I thank Grant! 
My everyday Hero. 
ONE LOVE  ♥☮☯... 

Georgia <><

I want to celebrate an 'EVERYDAY HERO!'

 If you ask "who is a hero?"-  For example in the Cannabis movement - you might hear the same names over and over again. I have come to the realization through this AMAZING - gift the internet that:  Cannabis is not a Canadian/American problem, it is WORLD wide problem!  There are far too many heroes that we do not see and hear about.  People who suffer daily from debilitating disease and pain and use Cannabis to help make life liveable.  Or worse - there are too many, soon forgotten after losing the war and paying the ultimate price - their lives. 

It is these heroes that I hope to bring attention to, pay tribute to and thank! 

I am blessed and thankful for FB, that has introduced me to people from all over the world these past couple of years. I have even found that my former limited knowledge has gone through a rude awakening. We are punishing, hurting, jailing, torturing and even murdering our fellow humans - over a plant.  Shame on us. 
We need to speak up! We who have the power – through access of the internet- the power to write, speak, draw and share as parents, educators, motivators, reporters- everyday people...  need to set an example and end this insanity over a PLANT.  A PLANT that HELPS the sick and suffering and soothes the mind and soul of millions more. 

This awakening came with a recent post(s) I saw. It made me simply - sad. Two posts that appeared right after each other on my FB news feed that left me feeling a moment of shame,  as a fellow Canadian cannabis activist.  

The first post was a photo of Cashy Hyde,  his tiny coffin being put into the ground - we truly lost a huge little hero. My heart aches and I pray that the family is healing and surrounded by all the love possibly mustered.  The second post was by Jodie Emery.          It said, if you’d like to send Marc money you can find the instructions at… 
I do not believe Marc should be in jail.  It was a sad day as a Canadian when they sent him to a US prison. And WE let it happen.

We see Marc Emery in jail - who appears to be a rock star, preforming shows, learning songs, reading magazines and asking for money to be sent to them.  I cannot help but think to myself; the average person who goes to jail for simple possession will not become a rock star, will not be out in a few years, will not be able to have family visit even just once, for crimes regarding Cannabis - less serious crimes like simple possession... those people I read about all the time and many hardly get any attention -other than from families or friends. For whatever reason the two posts haunted me and it got me thinking. There are many heroes in this battle. I only wish the ones that are truly suffering would get as much attention, if not more than the “Rock Stars."

People lose their jobs, homes, families and go to JAIL for enjoying what others BRAG about. 
                         THAT IS THE REALITY OF CANNABIS prohibition. 
Get busted for cannabis and you won't be in jail learning how to play in a rock band -chances are you will be in jail and become a new 'bum buddy' for someone.  When and IF you get out of jail you will have to start all over again. Sadly, THOSE are the facts for our every day heroes.  That is closer to reality than coming out a celebrity.

Keep in mind this punishment is all for something millions do and admit to daily!  Just like PRESIDENT OBAMA - self admitted Cannabis consumer.  Clearly it did not ruin his future. Hmmm? THINK ABOUT IT!  It is not fair and I for one will not 'celebrate' it any longer knowing how many are truly suffering. The law needs to change.

Celebrate ALL those who help - the famous together with the every day person who is posting and sharing - every bit helps. Post the truth of what happens to every day people.  If not, it will never change. 
There are criminals in the cannabis industry - just like every other industry and many are forced to be criminals. Patients should NEVER be made to feel like a criminal for something that provides a quality of life.

Do not forget the everyday hero - who is not getting fame or fortune but still puts it out there every chance they get in order to make a difference.  To those of you out there - I salute you and thank you. 

Starting tomorrow,  (every Monday) I will compile a GUEST blog from someone that I have either contacted- because they inspired me or who has contacted me with something to share. Some do not care if I mention their name while others choose to remain anonymous - mostly because their story is often too painful and they do not want people to know what they have endured. ;-(   
Please support and think carefully the next time you salute YOUR hero. 
Some are from around the world! It is nice to see how and what they think and feel. 

Beautiful songs and yes I agree... Police and firemen & Women  ♡♡♡ True Heroes :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pm3eHZnfjPI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWfAIDVltuQ

Or how about a rose by another or name is still a rose... I get it.
BUT  When I am discussing our medicine I call it what it is Cannabis. I made a comment on FB  about this and had someone start - IMO to 'nit pick'... explain the different strains. 
One - If you think I am not aware of the different strains and difference between cannabis and hemp, you are mistaken. 
Our son even more knowledgeable. To argue over the name Cannabis and marijuana is something that does need to be addressed. HOW is anyone expected to take it seriously when we can't even agree on a name!?  There are so many names - so why confuse - call it the name of the plant. Cannabis. Simple? Apparently not..
We waste our time on this sort of  mind play. 
Have we not been lied too long enough? My first reaction was to smack my head against my computer screen in complete frustration... but then I thought about it. I've noticed on FB how "heated and juicy" conversations can get- it also seem like they are the conversation people want to read about - never mind the thought of a cat fight! Meow!! 
So Im thinking.. I'm going to post this blog at the end of that link and if you are here to see what I have to say than what ever it took to get you here is worth it!!! 
The conversation did make me angry. I feel part of this entire problem is confusion. When I say Storm is using Cananbis and it has changed his life - many of my friends asked me what's Cannabis? - Really - KEEP in mind we only really started this journey 5 years ago.
Not your average 'pot heads' - Then I would say 'marijuana' and the mention of that word cause many to look shocked.  
MARIJAUNA - is a word people associate with your brain being fried.
 I'm not happy about that - that is how it is. The name of the plant is Cannabis. 
When a Dr. prescribes you medicine; is he going to say - "Here let me prescribe you some Hillbilly heroin"   That would be disrespectful. When I am discussing Cannabis with someone in the medical profession I want to be taken seriously and say what you will think what you want- I tell every DR. I meet (too many lately -wish I was not in this situation) about my and Storms use of Cannabis. If they say 'Marijuana' I say 'Cannabis'. 
Marijuana, weed, grass or ganga- it has been beat into our brains to associate it with a negative stereo type and I for one will not accept it. 
I deserve respect- If I don't think I do - I'm not going to get it. 
This is not a joke and I just want to scream - Don't you get it?!!
 Lisa and I still disagree. BUT if that is what got you to come and peek today so be it! 
Lisa and I are two very different women, with different approaches, opinions but essentially we are here for the same reason. I also think we like each other. I like her - I think she has a lot of courage. So if our  disagreement got more people to come check out then it is a blessing in disguise. She does much for the movement  and really to be honest  in a world where sex sells - well MamaKind has that cornered. WHY not ?
 Is she doesn't someone else will.  It is more than sex, I know she is equally as passionate for other reasons as well including her past and problems, her own son &  the law because of a plant.  So what started as something that was grinding my gears..  turned as usual to be a blessing is disguise. Lisa does know what she is taking about - lol - and I agree with much of it! She writes for Skunk and has a web page. 
http://mamakind.com/ Check her out because at the end of the day I believe both Lisa and I are speaking with our hearts and head and we both want to end the insanity. 
Two hearts are better than one. My friend Gary was also the cartoonist that illustrated her book! You can find his link on my friends page. 
I would like to end my BLOG - lol with saying.
Cannabis is Medicine.  Don't agree - what would you ask your Dr. for (remember you want/need to be taken seriously) Hmmm I have a hunch  you wont be asking for a prescription for grass, ganga or Marijuana>>> by the way google  Marijuana and watch where Wiki re-directs you.. ;-) 

xox xox

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