Here is a sign of my age.. 
Who remembers Holly Hobbie?
I DO!  I'm pretty sure I had a Holly Hobbie Doll, didn't we all? 

I was reminiscing on PIN, easy to do…  Raggedy Ann, Cabbage patch babies (I still have my original), The Sunshine family- now we can simply see toys of our past- get that ‘warm and fuzzy feeling all over again in a few seconds.

I was looking at of all things, the ‘Doll from Trilogy of Terror, remember him??  Frig that thing terrified me.  lol 
I was thinking of making a clay version for my desk in my office… lol - as long as his necklace does not fall off, Bird should be good. 

Well there she was - Holly Hobbie and BAM it hit me as plain as day.. she needs to become  ‘Holy iHighBe’  hee hee hee. 
It is my tribute art to Holly Hobbie -the Artist - of the same name more so than the doll, her one little image became iconic and loved by many little girls & boys.  She also is famous her her children books.

My little rendition of Holly -  My little Cannabis girl is also loved by millions around the world- the cannabis part anyhow!

She turned out so adorable, I have her framed and in my bedroom.  It makes me smile when I look at her & gives me a flash back of all warm & fuzzy - it’s a win, win.

I have decided to offer her as a print. It will be signed and numbered I’m only making 100.   
You can order her off Etsy link: 

https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/494723282/holly-ihighbe?ref=shop_home_active_1

Order your own cute little 'Holy iHighbe' print to frame -
​I have mine in a Walmart frame I purchased already with the matt for only $20.  
She is quite the little conversation piece,  instantly she is recognized but with a twist. 
A Cannabis Twist.


Have a Creative day - I know I will!  

Have faith  
xox
<><​

Check her out in My Etsy Shop!    

Who needs a last minute gift bag for something small??
Here it is.. painted just for you - so you can make one too!

You can see how to make it here on timelapse:
 https://www.instagram.com/p/BOHqCE8AzEv/?taken-by=georgia.toons

Have faith
<>< 
xox

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you.

Time to Draw

Today I though I'd put some love out into the Universe.

Have Faith
<><
​xox

How it works in this life I believe..    be nice & Give what you can if you don't have money use your gifts to make people smile.  I can tell you it WORKS.. I am smiling  today. 

I painted a little 'custom coffee' sleeve the other day- I am so excited for her to see it - the though of her and her expression make me smile...  sure enough because i gave with TLC (as I do with all I paint)  a package arrived (Storm and I jumping in the kitchen!! -lol) - the same day - American thanksgiving and it is from an American friend - Stephen Boehme!! Glass artist supreme - and I started laughing!  I follow Stephen on PIN - he follows me and helps me! I know- every now and then he 'pins an octopus, bee or even something I'm working on- he an I, have the same eye, and it is enjoyable and inspiring to share with a fellow artist.
I made Stephen a Daurma doll egg- when I noticed he was 'pinning them' and sent it last Easter, I also made many for friends - NOW- I have my very own Glass buddy  -
EYES wide open- reminding me to achieve my goals and keep going! You know it! 
And RED for Luck & Good fortune!  ;)  I make my own luck, from now on! We all do.
Bring it on! I'm going to keep him on my desk.. and have name for him already - hee hee
 it a secret between me and my Daruma Doll

Inspired by love you can not fail.
I am grateful for my friends- I've never met Stephen- he's been warned he's in for a HUG supreme-when we do meet! lol - His wife is also aware! Haha!  To live in this time and make friends over the internet- is incredible. I've blogged about Stephen before - if you are a collector of glass art - you will thank me.   I do feel very "?' special? lol not in that way- a bit emotional, really that Stephen took the time to make this and sent it to me.  
I feel honoured - as an artist and friend and it does the heart good.
Thank you.

I am going to do the same in 2017 - a year to give.
I've been painting every day- I have so many little pieces- I don't know what to do with.. Im giving some away! yes, to those who have been faithfully following Georgia Toons on FB  for years. Why not.. so if I 'message you' asking for your address  you might want to provide it. 
GIVE  your talent,  your time...  you friendship.  

Love makes the world Go round. 

Have Faith!
xox
<><

​:)    Check out my doll:

Yesterday  I was sitting outside getting some sun, I add nuts to the feeder then I sit out there and have my tea.. when I came back inside I saw a friend sitting on my kitchen table - a Bluejay! Of course it was frightened and it started towards my kitchen window - I reached out and grabbed it!  I' have 'Bird' to thank for my bird catching skills (hee hee hee _ I grin with pride)  I guess because I couldn't believe it myself & it just got calm.  Like I said I do this to bird all the time and at first he would shake.. until he knew I meant him no harm, now he likes it.. this Bluejay was so calm for one second started to panic.. then it looked at me, right in the face and calmed down, looking at me.. its beak was open and I wondered if it would bite so I gently rubbed it and it seemed to like this.. I rubbed its head feathers and it leaned in.. I could not stop smiling! I walked  up to my office to get my camera.. it just looked at me. 

I took some photos... I am so glad my hands were warm, I can tell you it's a strange sensation to have a bluejay claw around one of your finders. It was a powerful yet gentle grasp, big enough so my finger could have been the branch. Wow. 
As I spoke gently to it looked and blinked and did not try to escape once.
We walked out to the back deck, and opened my hands and it was gone, I can still see it leave my hands.. as though a perfect scene from a movie. 
Not long after I'm sure the same bluejay visited me at the deck feeder it sat there and just looked at me...  picked up 3 nuts before deciding and left. 

I have this big black canvas waiting... as I finish the 3 cats today I'll be thinking about my next bluejay painting. I want it to be allegorical, only I'll understand it's meaning, I started one of Scruffy in a boat earlier in the summer & decided to not continue. It was full of meaning, meaning that can stay in the past. 

After I research bluejays, symbolisms & facts I'll start to sketch. I'd be lying if I said my bluejay encounter didn't feel like a blessing. I'll admit holding it  -for one second -sorry, but I thought of John Jame Audubon who I found out watching a documentary- killed and used the dead birds to draw from, which made them so incredibly accurate.  
No.   I could never do it.  There is no need now, so many photos are available- I've taken 100's of bluejay photos! 

Letting it go, the dogs were in shock! I think, they thought I was faking it!?  I was so calm -the bluejay was so calm.. when it left my hands all their eyes (7 in total) including the cat- bulged!! It was comical- then they looked at me like WTF was that!?

Time to finish King of the Jungle & imagine good things - cause they make me smile! 
Have a great day & remember miracles happen ALL the time.  Big & small.  
Open your heart and watch what happens.

Have Faith
<><
xox

I like to say "I have an assistant"- who assist me and it's been a blessing this summer!
I was telling a friend I needed help, with all sorts of stuff, finding art, hanging art in the office, sorting the paint room and was at a loss.. she said "ask that girl at the coffee shop,  she likes your cartooning!"  Jessie, she had drawn me that cute little 'get sconed'.. what did I have to lose?  I asked she said "YES!"   I explained the deal, we would barter *as I do with many, for art lessons, original art - what ever.  She showed up an  we instantly hit it off. How could you not like her?    
I can't help but think of her as a firecracker- petite with red hair but huge on personality and talent!  We had a drawing lesson, more to see what she was capable of and I soon realized she was quick to pick up what ever I showed her & has what many do not-  the imagination to go with!   & her own distinctive style already- even if she does not realize it.  Next an introduction to gouache & sure enough her first sample, painted in her own time blew me away.. Check out the cute little bag she made for  the 'coffee scrubs':

After only a quick introductory lesson?? I didn't know if wanted to smack her or hug her! 
lol..  I get this way when I meet someone with artistic talent and find out they are not using it,  how does everyone not eat, breath and sleep art, I don't know.   ;) 
Jessie has joined me up at the cottage,  there too she was incredibly helpful and simply a pleasure to be around, although it is where Poppy 'decided to like her' - and since, is having no problems showing her affection as does Daisy!  You can hear her speak it "Jessies here!" she runs to get what ever toy she knows Jessie will throw.

What started as some assistance has turned into a friendship, I will miss her when she returns to school but will be visiting all the time - so that's good.   Never let age get in the way of speaking to anyone, as I teach her, quite offen she teaches me something as well.  I've got to know a  couple of her sisters and it is really  wonderful to know they are all smart, educated, traveled, kind, successful & funny young woman (well Jenny, another sister- she's another story, she cracks me up... I'm not sure why, she too manages to make me smile instantly- good thing, since I see her usually for 'our first coffee of the day)  they have been a blessing in our lives and I'm happy to know them!  * Jade too- who returns to law school in a few weeks in B.C. ! One more excuse to visit and I asked her to become 'something I can use..' Not a criminal lawyer- lol I know from our short interactions - watch out.  Just the thought of her being a lawyer - kicking ass- makes me smile.

Jessie also makes unbelievable body scrubs- so far I've had the lemon, coffee and  mint- they exfoliate my psoriasis and have helped get it a little more manageable lately, not to mention  stimulate all the senses.  I really think Jessie is going to be something- CREATIVE!  I look forward to watching it happen!  

I've included my favourite photo taken at the cottage.  
She has proven to be much needed & added sunshine this summer and I'm truly grateful to God for the  introduction.  & Jenny - for having her work in her coffeeshop and make fun of her 'little sister', as sisters do.  

Today she's coming over  I have a surprise a backyard painting journal!!! 
I'm forcing her to start one! lol   I'll show you when complete - she has talent and I can't wait to see it blossom! In full out gouache color!  
​Do what you love, surround yourself with people you enjoy and inspire and make you smile.  
​
Come back tomorrow to see 'our nature journal' and the FUN  'Hawaiian' photo op/cut out we made! 

​Have faith
xox <><    

* P.S. there are still about 3 people waiting for art - I've not forgot..
have faith, trust in me...  it will come,  you will see.  ;)

BTW all my framing is done by my longtime friend Kat of Kat's gallery. 
I highly recommend. :  https://www.instagram.com/kats.gallery/   
Just don't ask her personal questions about us, I can't remember if we are fighting or not, she probably can't either...  30, years I think.  hee hee hee  xox

Some days I decide what to draw, other days the drawing decides for me!  
I was cleaning and saw this on the fish tank of all places!  The fish are outdoors for the summer - soon to come in and I looked at the tank! There was this toon! 
Inked. Not colored.  Screaming: Finish me PLEASE!  
Another of the ones I wish you could see as the white leaves are painted on with a thicker paint and really pop.  It was drawn to be a mental reminder to myself. 
These simple rules -when we remember to apply them can be life changing. 
They don't assume has eliminated so much drama from my life.

When my brain starts to take over; why did they not return the call, what is going on, Is she pissed at something I said..  lol we all do it. Well many of us do, until we try to tame the beast called brain.. 
I can see clearly now .. the brain is gone! ;D hahhahahaaa
So NOW I ask.  No more assuming. It drains the brain, creativity, passion and energy.
 I'd rather ask, find out and deal and/move on.   
Sometimes that's just what we do  MOVE on.  
Focus on what brings us peace and let all else go.   
The book: The 4 Agreements
http://www.miguelruiz.com/the-four-agreements-introductory-video/

My mom called at 9 and offered to take us for lunch for Storms B-day. We went to this great sushi place in Newmarket. You use an ipad to order and send and the food comes.
It was delicious. Everything - well  the soup had cilantro - I do not like cilantro.  I highly recommend.  The name...  Cynthia's Paradise.
We had a great lunch, Storm will be 22 on Monday! ;D
 
Tomorrow a cannabis related cartoon. 
xox <>< 

I Love to READ.
It is a luxury I have experienced 'not' being able to use the past few years, off and on.
A GIFT I have decided, so I read every morning. 
Something positive. 
Set the mood for the right mind.  
I just finished and throughly enjoyed The Shoe makers Wife. 
Thanks Carm! xox I love a good book referral! 

I am currently reading A New Earth  By Eckhart Tolle.   ;) 
My mind has to read it over a couple of times at times! LOL  
I Am inspired and enjoying. 
Clearly, this Laughing Buddha appeared after reading it yesterday morning. 
As I was painting it I kept thinking of my friend Jodie.
She has helped me...    become conscious.  

I wish you could see it in person. I can not scan it 'exactly'.
It has special Gold paint that you see in the fire that rises up to the stars.
And the sky looks funky here - "oh, bother..."  lol
I don't care and neither will Jodie. 

The quote.. is true. In my opinion.  ;) 
Amen.

Have Faith <>< 

Oh,  I read FLUFF!!  
LOL My friend Cathy wonders how we can be friend with the 'stuff' that I tell her I read- much of it for 'work/inspirtion' can be from political to plant life.  BUT in BETWEEN I read Fluff!!  My next is a book from Cathy about the beach and love..  sounds like good stuff fluff to me.

Picture time!  
Many of us hate having our photo taken. Imagine now you have a  "twitch' that contorts your face most of the time. Photo's? Yippie.  
I was asked for a photo for an upcoming interview & need one for another project and a book photo so I thought best to get it done right. 
Who better than someone I have known for years.  I asked Kyle Clements,  a very talented artist and photographer and the next day he showed up!!  Kyle is also down to earth and what I consider "quirky" in a great way, so I was at ease. 
I think that is part of the battle right there! As an added bonus Kyle brought his mom! 
LOL  *just in this case- as she is my best friend too, I am sure he does not show up for photo shoots with mom in tow, she did a great job of holding the light and making me laugh.   
When I got the photos I became teary, because I like them. 
I usually avoid  mirrors at all costs. I feel my face contorting a million times a day - 
I don't need to see it.    Know what I mean?
This is me. This is how I am and have been for the past 4 years now..  I wish I did not have the pain that goes with it. It is the pain and concern is what allows me to get past the rest though, see how trivial it all is.   
No touched up photos here, no fancy dress, no elaborate props...  they  all just add to the illusion.      

I have no time for pretend. 

Love me or leave me I care not - I will survive and continue on! 
It does not matter what we look like only that we still remain. 
What a difficult lesson this has been BUT I am grateful for every bit of it! 
It broke a barrier for me- I look differently at people with disabilities and those with vanity issues.  The more beautiful as of late, are those that YOU really see - not those that disguise it all with a beautiful shell and can be very ugly on the inside. 

My son puts it better than anyone ever will. 
"Mom when I look at any photo of you I see Love."
No one else's opinion matters. 

<>< 
Thank you Kyle.. I get by with a little help from my friends ;-) xox

Poppy is so playful! She is out of that baby stage and now into playing, fetching, tug of war and  chase! Today she was running with a stuffed toy 3 times her size and tripping every other step. She has also taken to sitting in the toy basket, to guarantee first dibs, I guess.   It is a continual source of amusement for me and all who visit.   
I had a visit - I can't get over Poppy all over my best bud Cathy below! She was on her lap and showering her is kisses!  
All my girls love Cathy as you can see! Of course they do! But, sure enough as Cathy pats them - her nose gets itchy and she starts to sneeze - lol,  but they cannot resist and clearly neither can she.  Just looking at this photo I can't help but smile. I had to share. 
Cathy will kill me she's not big on photos (neither am I)  but not to share an image of love - Look at Poppy's tail! Wagging so fast it's a blur! Cathy could not even speak between kisses and giggles.

Daisy and Poppy are best friends.  I am blessed to have Cathy as my best friend for several years now.  She is 'THAT ONE' friend.  All you need.  She has seen me at my best, worst, prettiest and scariest, she actually told me today she 'Liked' my hair and I was thinking - Oh, you are such a good friend (heehee) ! She has shared tears, cried, laughed and hugged  me a lifetime of hugs. She does not judge me - not even when I answer the door at 3 in my flannel P.J.'s.   Or when I show her my next  craft creation - she's ready to sign up for a how to! She also is the one I call in an emergency - crafting or cooking... 
She inspires creativity and makes me want to be a better person. 
All we need is one friend like that,  I actually have a couple... but Cathy is my Bud.

 I love her. If she ever tries to smuggle Poppy out of here, I shall show her no mercy.
:D 
xox <><

Just before the last TY Expo I was contacted by a friend David, asking if I’d consider making Laughing Buddha into  glass art?  One thing led to another, and two incredibly talented glass artists made a couple of my characters out of GLASS!  It’s is officially called a Murrine: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murrine

Below are a few photos of Laughing Buddha actually being made.  I look at things all the time and often I think, I can do that! I look at how these talented artists make these little works of art and I am BLOWN away! I think ‘How in the heck do they do that’? I have looked at my Laughing Buddha murrine and then the drawing and think HOW the heck does he even figure out HOW to do that!? Patience for sure. 

I nearly lost them at the EXO and once home, every time I showed someone I  was putting them someplace and did not know how to display them... time to bring in an expert.
I put all call into Kat @ Kats Gallery (ON FB) and simply said (more or less) I’m making a special Laughing Buddha and this is what I want.. blah blah blah. Do your thing.  

I believe everyone is an artist in many ways. Kat is an artist when it comes to framing and creativity. Not only did she clearly put thought into it but to place the pieces on silk flowers! It just blends beautifully! Storm commented - “what... awesome, are those the only real flowers”  - it really makes you take a closer look at the entire piece.  It just is beautiful if I do say so myself! I also asked her to keep FUN!  She has known me for almost 30 years  so I knew I did not have to worry.  I’d rather someone else take it over. I do want to add  I have another framer as well, and over the years - when I need something framed  and ‘need a mans opinion’  or the drawing for a man,  I use my friend Bob Doyling (also on FB & a very talented photographer!)  Both artist in their own right, and as different as acrylic and water color! Variety is the spice of life! 

This laughing Buddha speaks for itself. It is a 4 artist combination! Including Kat.
 It IMO is the perfect way to display my one of a kind prize possessions ;-) 
Now everyone can see them, not touch, drop or lose them!  It hangs in my kitchen and so far not one person has walked past without commenting! 

Another Idea I had (after) was to have the glass and then have me and the artist in a photo cut into the matt above! NEXT year! The artists that made my Murrine are: Jerry Kelly, he made Laughing Buddha and is in the photos below and the Zen Kitty creator is  Stephen Boehme! They are both on FB and both doing some incredible work.

Sorry, It is nor will it ever be for sale. I was so honored by the gentlemen that made these you have no idea. Flattered, honored and humbled! LOL  
Do you have any creative way to display your Murrine?

My Laughing Buddha Murrine  & Zen Kitty may be purchased through Murrine Scene 
 You can find them on FB or @: https://www.facebook.com/murrine.scene?fref=ts

xox <><  

Have a Peek at the slide show below to see details and How Laughing Buddha was made! 

Fear 

It is so easy for many of us to think the worst.  Many not even aware that the pattern of worry perhaps even established for us, by those around us. Aways thinking what if and that what if  - the worst case scenario. 

I GET it. If you think I have not thought my own ‘What if’s’,  especially lately - I have, 

The best what if... What if I die. 

We all think about it, but for some it becomes almost a reality as we deal with health issues that are unavoidable or  there’s nothing like surviving a life altering accident.. why do I say it is the best ‘what if’? 

Because it is the one that can make many finally snap and say:  
WOW! What if!
What If I just started to live my life and not give a shit what anyone thinks!
What if I fight for what I believe in and people see the honesty instead of the lies!
What if I do what makes me happy and enjoy LIFE. 
What if I just do the best I can..
What If I can make changes!
What if I Do succeed! 

It is 1/2 the battle, many times the what if’s don’t come true and all we have done is exhausted ourselves with the process.  EVEN when many ‘What if’s’  do come true - they are not as bad as we first perceive.

So many people are worried about the upcoming changes and 'what if’s' surrounding cannabis - what if I cant get my medicine, what if I cant afford it, what if we get raided, what if we go to jail. What if I lose my home, what if.. 

         WHAT if we all FOCUS on what can go right! 

What if we all said enough is enough! WE ARE NOT criminals! 
What if we stand together and make our own changes? WHAT IF!?
I for one am tired of the negative 'What ifs...' 
What if, I do what I believe is right and try to do the best I can to make this stay enjoyable and be a better person.  How could the world not be a better place if we  tried to do a little more of the positive “What if’s”.  
Too many negative already seeing themselves behind bars. 

I’m not naive, I consider myself hopeful. You can call it what ever you want. I have read over and over many time people are getting off, cases dismissed and changed made.

Cannabis education IS spreading all around the world as IS the demand for legalization,  so instead of thinking the worst - think ‘what if this is it & the tides are finally turning!

A few years ago I thought: 
What if I do some medical marijuana cartoons to try to bring attention to the problems.       What if!  Back then I did not think - what if my comics are seen all over the world?
No, admittedly, I was PROBABLY thinking...  
What if no one likes them...
What If I never get published..      
So glad I was wrong.   :) Thank you. 

WHAT if!!?
FOCUS!    xox <><

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

 Today is a new day. 
I was gifted Friday a book, and read it already. I loved it.  Although, I do feel the he, E. Alexander M.D. forgot about us 'not so medically inclined',  I was dumb struck a few times.  LOL  
Hey, we can't all be brain surgeons. 
I was hesitant to read it because of the brain issues (frightened, a better word) but glad I did.  My faith is strong and I already believe in heaven. I believe there is more to us than this. We are all better than this <3.  I BELIEVE in GOOD and God.   
In a world full of temptation/lies/greed/pain it is hard to focus always on the good.
I too know that pain and fear bring out the worst in people and I am NO exception.
I am thankful for those around me that love me enough to remember that. ;)
Still, a few times "Proof Of Heaven!"  hit too close to home. 
Thinking of it now I tear up. <3 that poem.
He says he is meant to write that book and I feel I was meant to read it. 
That is what it is all about. Helping each other. 
I am glad I read it, not for proof of heaven but reminder that we are all ONE. 
ONE LOVE ❤  
It inspired the toon! At first I was just going to draw pills and cannabis, and then I was poked in the head to be reminded of the Bigger picture!!!  :)
I am pulling back, looking in praying/meditation and DRAWING. Amen! 
Enjoying my newly painted & clean (LOL - how long it will stay that way, time will tell.) kitchen - I have sunshine indoors all the time! I LOVE IT! That and my guys and girls... 
Good Vibes always appreciated! 
xox <><  !!!

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. ♥

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 <>< 

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 <><

Yesterday I logged on, had my coffee and saw to the side (sneaky Fb advertising working) Deva Premal would be in Toronto! 
OMGosh!   http://www.devapremalmiten.com/
A couple of years ago Sr.Jane introduced me to a Deva Premal CD and the rest is history.  Om mani padme hum has never been the same.  But there is more to it.  It is the one of the very few musicians I can listen to or rather - my brain will allow as background music.  When I am drawing,  at peace - chances are it is Deva in the background that helps me achieve my moments of cartooning bliss ;-) . Her music allows me to create and be enhanced and not distracted. 
What ever works for you - the thing is I LOVE her music and have an ipod player/speakers in most rooms so my guys are also Deva fans, like it or not! LOL  So when I saw the post -
 I posted: Going !  
BUT it was wishful thinking -I had not yet purchased tickets...
I made a mental note to self - bucket list!  It was a few moments later and Storm came up stairs (he lives in his own basement apt.) and said  
"MOM book the tickets! My treat!"
I could not believe it! Really!!?  He said yes, and we booked 2 right then and there! 
ROW G for GRAND-o-riffic! and Georgia. 
 Then it registered to him, that he is going to see Deva Premal in Toronto.
 LOL!  With me!  I was so happy I was in tears! 
I am so excited, I cannot even remember a concert I have wanted to see lately  and there it was;-) September  is a while off but I have the poster printed in my office and every time I hear one of her songs - I will think 
I'M GOING!! I find her music healing. 
We don't 'Do' Christmas, holidays hype, buy a gift day... we do: I love you.
I have such a wonderful son, I am reminded constantly by his actions and comments - not just regarding us, but others as well. I know my son loves me but that was just a really amazing level of awesome ;-)  What a wonderful way to start my day yesterday.
The rest proved pretty awesome too. I bakes fresh Irish Soda bread and it turned out PERFECT! Bet it would please any Leprechaun ! Then drew and painted...
It was a beautiful day
<><  XOX
Now have a look at the Best Irish Soda Bread ever:      

I really enjoyed the following article, I hope they do not mind I share. 
What would Jesus do!  He would not be letting his people suffer over a plant - that is for sure.

Christians say “No” to cannabis?
01 March 2013, 14:01
Not all Christians are the same. This I understand and appreciate as it would be wrong to generalize based on religion. Christian scripture (aka The Bible) contains a lot of conflicting and sometimes scary information, much of which simply cannot be applied in today’s world. Yet I respect that one be allowed the freedom to practice their religion privately and not harm others in the application of their religion, even if there are aspects of it which I may not personally agree with.

The crunch comes through when political parties perch upon their religion as if makes them morally superior to others and then feel that their personal beliefs entitle them to make unfounded, ignorant and otherwise deliberately misleading statements to the public.  Statements that are severely at odds with their religion which they have based their political tenants on.  Sure, you cannot be expected to kill your neighbor because he or she worked on a Sunday or be entitled to sell your daughter. But what about a defining aspect of your religion, an aspect on which your very religion is named?

The sweet and short on the origination of the word “Christian” is that it means followers of the anointed one (aka The Messiah or Jesus). But as we all know, the devil is in the details. What do you think was a key ingredient of this holy anointment oil? I’ll give you three guesses. You probably only need one though.

Did you guess that the magic ingredient was cannabis? Then you are correct. So here we have a religion which is based on cannabis being a part of the many pivotal aspects of their Messiah’s good deeds. Throw in the aforementioned origination of the word Christian and we see how relevant cannabis was to the foundations of Christianity. Do I think that this means Christians should therefore by default support and promote the use of cannabis? No I do not. Just because Jesus also made booze out of water, does not mean that I would expect them to support the consumption and promotion of the stuff. .. even though they do by teaching kids about the holy relevance of wine.

A recent article of mine highlighted how absurd it was for the some groups to continue supporting the prohibition of cannabis, as it is becoming increasingly clear that cannabis prohibition does not work and creates more problems than it attempts to resolve. Unlike their views on the matter, I have long provided supporting objective studies regarding the need for an end to this failed and expensive social burden.  But what help is it playing study poker with an organisation that prides itself on putting its personal beliefs before facts and ignores the very foundations of these personal beliefs on its mission to have its bible buttered on both sides.

I only hope that this political party does not continue to reflect so negatively on its fellow Christians. Besides, judging by the longstanding religious violence that continues to plague our planet it would appear that smoking some grass is not as bad for your health as it is to be Christian, Muslim, Jewish, etc.

Yet people are afforded the freedom to subscribe to a religion without being considered criminals, even if it costs them their lives. A fundamental mistake in thinking that the cannabis legalization movement is about promoting cannabis use when it is in fact a movement that is against the persecution of responsible adult cannabis users and intends on ending the damage done by a law that’s harm far exceeds its intentions.

The discussion is being had one way or another, will others continue to make themselves completely irrelevant by spouting cherry picked and outdated news stories or will they face the facts and help in the discussion towards a legal, regulated and constructive South African cannabis industry? What would Jesus do?

For more info on the cannabis culture or the fight to free the weed, please visit
www.belowthelion.co.za


Thank you! ^^^

Wow! I found it really interesting to check out that website just now, after the post I made earlier on FB- I'd say it's a sign ;-)  
Oh, and then I found that image of Jesus and yes, It made me giggle... still giggling.
Ah, God is Good.

 It is REALLY a WORLD WIDE problem and it has to end. 
ONE LOVE. 
WORK TOGETHER! 
<><   xox

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. 
Leo Buscaglia 

I had the pleasure recently of meeting Theresa ♥. Theresa owns and operated Practice Healing  in  town. Theresa has been inviting me for a massage for years!! Our son's  are friends, we had never met but knew of each other.  I decided to finally take her up on it and - I AM so happy I did!!!  I had by far the best massage I have ever had- if you know me you know I won't say that if it is not true.  But, it was more... first our visit started with the infared sauna!  OH - that was so nice- I'm not a fan of hot tubs or traditional sauna's - I find I' can't breath in Saunas but this was completely different!  The next thing we were peeling off the layers, laughing, planning and more!  

I really liked Theresa, her good vibes and desire to heal are evident in all she does, from her neat recycling tips and tricks - Healing the planet too- that right there shows me the level of passion Theresa is putting into this new adventure. It is not a business to her, it is  a state of mind.  I am thinking about signing up for Yoga - I have not in the past because of my arthritis but Theresa assures me I can come, try and just go at my own pace.  
I was only going to be about an hour I told Storm .... 4 hours later - a visit to Practice Healing and a new adventure born!!! So much so - I am going to be working with Theresa on a few projects.  I believe we have the same ideas and hopes and dreams!  I came away from that visit more than relaxed, I was revived!  

I asked Theresa to write a short Bio - on what Practice Healing means to her:

I am a healer, as I believe we all are. The body is in a constant state of healing itself. I want to teach others to enhance their abilities in this direction. I want to help people  realize we are responsable for the care of our body, mind, and spirit.
I have always loved people, of all ages. I have six children of my own, and eight grandchildren. I have always loved helping people too and so an opportunity arrived that I could go back to school and I decided on massage therapy.
I'm in my eighth year of practicing massage therpay and I feel I was created for this job. I have a passion to help others and have discovered that God has answered my request to have the gift of healing. I feel entirely privileged to have the education I have and the opportunity to share my gifts with others to help them. 
Since graduating as a massage therapist I have also been certified as a reflexologist and yoga teacher, and completed a "thai massage for the table'"course.
I have practiced yoga since I was 15 and knew I would be a yoga teacher one day. So in 2010, when I was on my raw food yoga retreat in the jungles of Honduras, I decided I wanted my own raw food yoga retreat in the jungle, and I would go home to become a yoga teacher. So I did and I graduated last year. I greatly enjoyed my course with Paola Di Paola at Four Directions Yoga in Keswick. While taking the course I have to admit I coveted this yoga studio. It seemed perfect. As my teacher training was coming to an end my teacher and owner of Four Directions announced she was moving her studio to Woodville where her husband had built her a studio in their barn. The studio was mine to pursue! Interestingly enough, I did not jump at the chance to secure the studio.
I, in fact, panicked at the idea. So when another student took it over, I was relieved. 
I have practiced assisted yoga in my home since then, but have not pursued teaching anywhere else. The idea of a studio was percolating but it wasn't until August of 2012, when I was on my back deck practicing yoga, practicing healing a shoulder injury I have had since I was in my early 30's, I realized that I was not a yoga teacher. I was a healer who just used yoga, massage, reflexology, and music to bring healing to my clients and anyone that came my way to help. I have a personal trainer and as I learned many things about nutrition and weight training, I shared this with interested clients and anyone who would listen. I do believe in God and I believe it was God that gave me the idea that I'm not to open a "yoga" studio, but I am to open a "healing" studio and it is to be called "Practice Healing". I didn't have fear, but excitement and joy at the idea. I could help so many more people and as I thought more about it, floods of ideas came. I realized that we all practice healing every time we eat good food, every time we breathe, and every time we go to sleep. I want practice healing more in my life and teach and encourage others to do the same. My favourtie part about "Practice Healing" is this. Every time we extend kindness to someone or smile at someone or even hold the dood for someone we are bringing healing to them and we, in turn, are healed. I want to start a movement to help people realize that we are healers and to leave my studio knowing this, and to practice healing, themselves, others, and our world, and then I don't have to do it all! 
~Theresa

You will be hearing more about Practice Healing - You can find them on Face Book :
https://www.facebook.com/PracticeHealing    It is a new business, Theresa will be adding classes and more as people express the desire- her desire to heal is also willing to bend over backwards (no pun intended yoga fans)  this only shows me the business is going to GROW!  I've included some photos below. 

              Want to be let in on a secret?  We have already stared our first project... 
                  Make plans: April 6th weekend..   The Healing Hearts ART show. 

*** I want to add something... a life lesson - learned.  YEARS ago, a friend was talking to me about Theresa.  She said she was 'weird' and I probably would not like her. The friend and I were close and I took her word for it..  upon meeting Theresa - all I could think after is - that friend, clearly did not know me.
I loved Theresa the moment I met her - I felt a connection.  Perhaps I was not ready  'back then'  either - but now - It is people exactly like Theresa that I want to surround myself with.  
Good Hearts trying to make this place (this great big place) better.
Luckily for me, we were meant to meet - it just took a little longer ♥.

Please visit: http://www.practicehealing.ca

Today features two hero's really IMO, Peter and Julia.
Honestly, the first time I met Julia was the last day of the EXPO, literally sitting on boxes waiting for Norm to get the truck to pack up and head home! EXHAUSTED. It really does exhaust me; every time a few days later it hits me and I get sick. I guess with all else that is going on it is just physical and mental overload.  Well, she too was waiting at the top of the stairs and introduced herself. She said she hopes one day I'll draw a toon for Peter- I told her I make no promises ;-).  She was very sweet, had a huge smile on her face, - she did in fact every time I saw her walking around the EXPO, she stands out as I remember as she also wears hats!
 I love a HAT! I think people who can pull off a hat are lucky, not everyone can - she can pull off a hat beautifully I might add! ;-) First impressions - I liked her. It was not until very recently that I had heard from her again.  All I can say is Julia is lovely.  
I asked her for a blog and she happily replied -would I promote Peter's page!? Of course. Peter no longer with us - Julia continues to promote Peter, his life, poems, books and fight!  The fight to Legalize Cannabis.  So 'Two' Hero's. 
We should all be so lucky to have someone light Julia who continues our fight long after we are gone .  ♥ 

Julia of petermcwilliams.org 

The layers I have put around your going are thin. 
~ I walk softly through life, adding thickness each day. 
~ a thought or a feeling 
~ of you cracks the surface.
 ~ a call to you ~ shatters it all.
 ~ I spend that night in death 
~ and spin the first layer of life 
~ with the sunrise"
~ Peter McWilliams

When a dashing, tossel-haired poet came along in the '70s, many a young woman swooned. They gobbled up Peter's books like hotcakes, they hungered for some understanding voice to help guide them through the tumult of adolescence and young adulthood and Peter McWilliams was their answer.
Peter McWilliams wore many hats, he was a true Renaissance man. If you wanted to learn about computers, you could pick up one of Peter's manuals and laugh and learn at the same time. Peter sprinkled his sense of humour in all of his books. Even when he was hurting.
In the 70's, meditation was the in thing to do, and Peter enjoyed exploring this peaceful new existence. He wanted to help others find that shining inner peace as well and co-authored "The TM Book: How to Enjoy the Rest of Your Life" with Denise Denniston. Along the way he met Harold Bloomfield, M.D. Peter and Hari formed a friendship and wrote a few things together. Peter combined the poetry he had published in the book "Surviving" along with Melba Colgrove, Ph.D. and Harold Bloomfield's soothing advice, and voila, "How to Survive the Loss of a Love." So many have felt touched by this book, including Kristin Flor, who had just lost her dad, Cannabis warrior, Richard Flor, this past August. The book was published in 1971 and is still around to this day, a true testament to its value. This brilliant book is written so simply, it speaks to you like a comforting friend.
Peter drifted away from the computer world into the "personal growth" world. He disliked the phrase "self-help." But Peter's Life 101 series surely helped many who struggle with self-esteem. Such titles as "Life 101," "You Can't Afford the Luxury of a Negative Thought," "Do It! Let's Get off Our Buts" and "Love 101" inspired many and to this day, are still touching lives and hearts. 
In the early 90's Peter wrote "Ain't Nobody's Business if You Do," considered the "Libertarian Bible" by many libertarians, even today. This book explains why the war on drugs is doing more harm than good . Peter wrote, "Drugs, gambling, and prostitution are the Big Three underground 'moneymakers' in consensual crime. There would be, however, significant boosts to the economy if the stigma attached to the other consensual crimes were eliminated through legalization." 
In March 1996, Peter learned the devastating news that he had AIDS and non-Hodgkins lymphoma. He tried every drug his doctor could come up with, but nothing seemed to relieve his nausea. It was becoming normal for Peter to spend many hours a day throwing up. He was getting hardly any work done, and he was robbed of energy. After doing much research he discovered marijuana was the one thing that helped keep his medicines down. 
Proposition 215 had been passed allowing Californians access to medical marijuana. Around that time, Peter had published Todd McCormick's book, "How to Grow Medical Marijuana" and Peter was soon labeled a "drug kingpin" because the feds felt he was growing plants for profit when Peter said they were for the patients. Peter's house was raided and the DEA descended upon him in a huge thundercloud. They took his computer, and it came back totally clean, along with a surprise, a virus. People still to this day wonder why there was a mysterious house fire just a few days before Peter's death. It destroyed everything.

Peter had been jailed for 30 days, and he was told if he ever smoked cannabis again his mother and brother would lose their house. Some collateral, eh? Peter was facing 10 years of jail. So he took the plea, and he ended up dying at the young age of fifty. After he died, the Libertarians honoured Peter with the "Champion of Liberty" award. Peter's speech had touched many. He called for an end to the war on drugs and felt that marijuana should be available to anyone who needed it. "I feel that I am entitled to take medicinal marijuana. In general, I believe that everyone who has a doctor's prescription is entitled to take marijuana. I, however, do not believe that my day in court should be taken from me, and that's essentially what's happening," Peter said.
On Flag Day, June 14, 2000, Peter died. 
At the Treating Yourself Expo in Toronto this year, Mr. Marco Renda, the founder, walked around in a PeterMcWilliams.org t shirt. Many patients there were moved by the words on the back of Marco's shirt:

"Nausea is an unsolved problem of medicine and marijuana is the finest anti-nausea medication known to science."

Twelve years later, people still consider him one of the Cannabis Movement's biggest heroes. But many still don't know his name. PeterMcWilliams.org strives to educate everyone about this brave, beautiful man, the same man who once penned, 
"This poem is a kiss for your mind."

Peter McWilliams still lives on, in poetry and in politics, in the cannabis movement and in the meditation movement. In liberty and in love.
Peter still lives. And we're thankful for that. After all, he's got many more lives to touch.

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

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

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

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

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