How Low can they Go? I don’t know… pretty low. 
Changing the rules & laws to suit what ever works best for an already established corrupt Administration. Rise Up.  WE Stay High. 
Cannabis is here to stay.
Getting angry only gets people thrown in jail and gives the “Authority’ reason to shoot your dogs, as any dog lover knows - any loving dog will defend their master & sense the threat - so, many good dogs are going to die I’m afraid in the future, in the USA.  
A Good time for people to think about investing in the dog bite prevention kits, with my illustrations & puppy training - help prevent any event from harming a family member. 

When they Go Low - STAY HIGH. I don’t mean - sofa surfing the latest celebrity gossip on T.V. high. Educate! Yourself or someone on any topic that you are passionate about.  Hopefully, one will be Cannabis awareness. If Cannabis helps you feel better,  stay HIGH but stay active, creative and inspired.  Terrible news all the time can tear down the soul, throw in daily aches and pains, mental & physical, next you’re exhausted and not even enjoying all that you work so hard to accomplish. 
Stay Hi - when it helps you past the PTSD. 
Stay HIGH when dealing with chronic pain & even when dealing with a broken heart.. as many do starting the new year - it’s not healthy - so get HIGH, in  2016 you had a good cry - NOW get busy.  Heal thyself.  

This year... 
Chase your dreams not people, those who are meant to be in our lives will be.

I took steps to become better in 2016 was somewhat successful, when I sit, meditate, think positive thoughts about pleasant experiences & people - I had a smile on my face and everything seemed better… slowly.  I felt better, looked better and twitched less. Fact. 
It was work, I kid you not.  lol  I plan on working at it more this year.

I know what I need to focus on in 2017, more painting.  How about you?

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

Lies.. please, tell me no lies.  Even little ones.
We  all have lies which surround us, read the paper.  I have reached a new pinnacle in my life and it has me wanting to SOAR every time I feel it surge through me.  
Bullshit - you have met your match.
I simply am going to 'call people' on it. From now on...  lol  Tell me the truth.  
I recently did just that, after decades of confusion - I picked up the phone. The caller knew instantly  'who' I was, which was reassuring.. I asked a few questions and came away no longer confused, clearer than ever before as a matter of FACT.  Problem solved! Forever!  & now I can lay that one to rest.  Understanding more, forgiving more and forgetting finally.
It feels fucking fantastic & gave me a new found sense of strength & power & a great conversation with a "you can call me anytime - which was really nice."      I'll move on. 

Then there are 'little lies'.. kinda fun at times- but then too, with my imagination- they can escalate into 'a frenzy' sometimes good and sometimes bad.  So please, don't.  
Know I'll check - from now on - I'll ask- whom ever I think might know the answer. Simple.
Wow.  Just ask.  As soon as possible - so you do not over think/stress.
When someone is in front of you - you can tell sometimes if they are just being cheeky- 'pulling my leg'- that's different from lying- or is it? I ask: are you pulling my leg?   
Ivan pulls my leg from time to time.. my pal Jim is also good at it. 
With e mail- it's not so easy to tell.  No wonder Pinocchio comes to mind!

I just needed to paint! TRUMP has me stumped.  I respect Americans have anew president - but I don't like him..  most women don't.  HE has triggered something - I'll be the first to admit- I have fucking had it with 'men like him' making remarks like they do & I personally have been forced to deal with them MY ENTIRE LIFE. No more.  
We had one such fucking remark not long ago:
We had to renew our personal insurance, Norm & Storm met with the "broker" at a coffee shop a few months back. He wanted to come to our home- but Norm explained I was not well and we don't have people over. When 'he' met them one of his first remarks was:
   "Going to renew the policy Norm? More money for Hookers and cocaine.."
Storm was shocked- he told me first - then Norm confirmed. Storm was disgusted.  Storm rarely says anything negative about anyone, not this time & he said he was 'like that' the entire meeting and told his dad to 'drop that asshole'.  He knew I was at home ill, Norms wife, Storms mom and he says this shit?? I was LIVID.. but I was sick.. it's been months.

Friday, I called head office... I explained (very calmly- thank God - it's been a few months) what happened and "IF they do not get our policy off that pigs hands I will call the papers." 
I won't name him, the company formerly Penncorp Canada has recently changed names,  HE KNOWS -  he called after their visit- and I answered the phone- he knew and I knew instantly- I could hear it in his demeanor  - I confronted him,  he admitted the remark
 his response: "oh .. I was just joking"                 FUCK that.  
Every time we allow these 'Jokes' to go on-  YOU know they will- it disrespects women- Mothers, wives, sisters & daughters. THE OTHER half of the population.. Norm is in the dog house - I told him to change it after the incident and just found out last week - we are still paying this disrespectful asshole MONEY.  No more.  
The company has assure me they will handle the problem & the policy will be turned over  to a more professional, respectful broker.  I will hear back this week.
'Just joking..'  fine.
I'm not joking & I'm NOT giving you a cent/nickel  ;)  more.   There you go.
That is how to do it.   Pay attention and do it with your dollar. 

I'm back painting Pinicchio today- and guess what- I also painted a MINI study.. I think I'll give one away.   He makes me smile. Not nearly finished.. a bird haven I think I need to add 'several' more... we'll see.

Have Faith ...in each other.
<><
​xox
​

Time and time again I think... 'when the f*ck will I learn.'
Certain bridges are meant to be burnt. 
You need to burn them to prevent you from crossing them again.

Note the 'flames' are in the shape of a heart- to remind myself, I love myself
and deserve better and won't be crossing that bridge again. 
Hanging  by my desk where I sit daily and paint.

Clarity & closure allow you to focus on what matters.

​
Have Faith
xox
<><

 'I love Canada.  Even in the winter..  I get more painting done!  Nature is my clock.
What do I love about Canada? Stunning nature, trees, GREEN, bluejays, maple syrup (Heaven's is my favourite')  Justin,  poutine, Beavers, Moose & loons!  The Ex- even tho  I no longer attend,  Mounties, Inukshuks...  the list is endless & Now- Canada allows Medical Cannabis patients to grow their own medicine!  Amen.  
It has me wanting to celebrate and combine my love of Canada with my love of cannabis and here was the first in a series Im calling 'Home Grown Canadian'.

My sons long time friend Sam, surprised me with a new piece to add to my collection!!
​Check out my sweet little glass nugget. ;) I'm very proud of him as I have bugged him a long time to keep creative!   A little upset he admitted he is slacking lately and only working about 3 hours. That's not going to cut it. Treat it like a job you LOVE  9-5 at least!
Check out Soul Masta's Glass on FB!  

On my Mind - my first sketch of the day... My MUGSHOT 

Next on the desk.. a little Alice Fun..  Peek A Boo, peek thru. I'm going to Time-lapse!

 On my mind...  I will NOW only tolerate people, thing, events, jobs in life that
Turn Me On!   Turn on my mind first and the rest follows! Meaning my heart.

On my mind.. Scruffy of course. I will admit yesterday during a TN attack and my face cramped for what seems like forever- it is my right side, my eye pulls shut and stays that way.. well Scruffy now has her right eye always shut.  The things that dog does for me.  
Dr. Karen Norman called me this am and assured me she was doing well.  Scruffy went out for a pee - "make sure she is on a least she knows her way home!"  and she said already you see her personality shine through. She is pretty bruised still, I can't wait for tomorrow- around 10, I walk up and go get her! 

Lot's to celebrate! 

Have faith
<><
​xox

My Hallmark  girl is in the hospital...  please send her some loving vibes today.
Me too.    

As you know Tequila just died... She was our oldest dog - 19, and still called the shots- even with Daisy who was easily 4 times her size, she trained Daisy - as Daisy watched her, so did all our dogs-  Tequila was well behaved.  If Daisy got out of line  'Ticky would go over and growl at her and Daisy would back off.  WE noticed the past week, Scruffy 'claimed the basket' (Tequilas basket that she had her entire life) no one else used it.  
We let it go- someone has to use it but I saw Daisy going over & giving her a dirty look.  Really.

Anyhow Daisy and Scruffy have always fought.. maybe 3 times a year they get yelled (we never let our dogs fight with each other) at & Scruffy- a 1/4 of Daisy's size never backs down! She is my problem child with the most attitude!  Well,  yesterday  they got into a fight, over nothing... Storm was right there with a friend (thank God)  I was up painting, my first in a series of  "Home Grown Canada".  Storm calmly yelled to me "Mom, come - we need to take Scruffy to the vet... its bad mom,  prepare yourself."   He was incredibly calm- as he gets- thank God.  When I saw Scruffy - My heart sank.    ;(    
One of her eyeballs was on her face.
I held her still as Storm ran of his keys..  she was calm, looking at me  ;( with both eyes and all I could was cry silently and hug her and tell her its o.k...    

Just then, Norm came through he door (Scruffy is  his dog)  and they rushed her to the vet.. it was closing... so they were advised to take her to the 'emergency clinic'.... Here is where I start to get extremely pissed off, so I best keep calm...   $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$    they were told it could cost up to $4,000 if they did it.  BUT if we wait and take her back to our vet today it will be much cheaper, WTF!?   !!!!!!!!
ARGGGHHHHH!!!  Bullshit!
Just do your fucking job and don't try to gouge everyone!
What a fucking joke..  :(          O.k. Im still very upset and cried all night.
My girl is in the hospital with her eye on her cheek because of $.  
We had to wait, we don't have the $ - we are waiting now to go and get her and bring her to surgery.  Norm had to get a credit card   to pay.  ;(  we were credit card free.  & it has already cost us $700. cash..   to sedate and send her back to another vet.    >:(  Fucking joke.

What do you do- say put her to sleep for $150. ;(    
No, she is one of my girls, family!  OMGosh, just the thought putting her to sleep  has me sick to my stomach.  2 dogs in less than 2 weeks.. Scruffy is our rescue 9 years now I think she is..   we were told they won't be able to save her eye.

The one thing I will say is Scruffy is our tuff girl, I'm sure even with one eye, she will be a hand full still. I cant wait to hug and kiss her.

The vet did say that sometimes a dogs like Scruffy- can have an eye pop if they sneeze!
Daisy is in the doghouse and she knows it.  It was an accident, they are normally best buds.

Please send us ALL some loving vibes and prayers today as Scruffy has her surgery.
And I don't freak on the vet. I will update tomorrow.
I just had her photo put onto a canvas.. to paint around her, to pay with and have fun.

Have Faith
​xox <>< 

* Update..  we had to PU scruffy before 7:30 or paid another $150.. we did then drove to the vet and had to wait until they 'Opened' at 8:30. She is now at our vet - since we moved up here. Dr. Karen Norman, whom I would rather do Scruffys surgery anyway.
BUT  they could have done the surgery, the estimate was $2000.  for a Rookie vet.. Oh they had a much more 'formal way' of telling us - I looked at her and said "so, a Rookie?"    
 I got No response- only a look of 'yes, I guess so.'  OR a trained practicing vet for $4000.! + more if complications- but  hey, the rookie - if they had complications - oh well, you got what you paid for.  Fear mongering is what it is. HAVE ONE FUCKING PRICE.

This industry is another that is only concerned with money- what happened to Dr.s caring about patients!?  Scruffy went in there with her eye dangling on her fucking face!  They bandaged her up and I'm supusto be happy with the cute little fucking bandage-  we paid almost $500. 
Awwww... FUCK that! Look after my fucking dog you hypocrites.
​EMERGENCY CLINICS RIP YOU OFF!

*They made sure we paid our money before we got our dog- BUT did not have the change to give us, instead Norm has to make a return visit to them, there was cash in the drawer - but not enough and it wold have 'inconvenienced them'. Icing not he fucking cake.
 
​We will get a call later after surgery and hopefully she will be home Monday.

It's time to show myself some love.
Yesterday, I told you about the death of my dog.. today it is the death of my marriage.
This too will come as no surprise to many who know 'us' well.  
All I ask from anyone is prayers for a smooth transition into a new chapter of my life.
​For myself as well as Norm. 

I found this quote last night on PIN:

'My son is older and now wiser.  
I want him to be in a happy relationship, I know they exist.  

I think it would be better also for me to be alone and 'content' - even happy maybe,  than to be continually in a relationship where we do not get along anymore, fight constantly about everything from no name chips to paint chips and it's just not fucking fun anymore.. it never was.  Not the fighting.  It has physically taken its toll one the past few years, expecting to be who I was not and being in an environment that never stops - with work all around me not complete, it's made it almost impossible to 'stay on top of'.  When not fighting we each do our own thing we never talk about anything other than the weather - I hardly ever get asked 'how was your day?    I'm just not interesting anymore, I guess.    I still ask daily.
 No more. 

You try to 'keep the peace', because it's what you think we should do, at some point you really start to think about the price for peace you are paying and this one is too steep for me.

If you read this blog you have a pretty good idea of what's been happening.
Time has passed.. we went in different directions.  
I told Norm the kitchen won't make a difference - just like everything before- it is all stuff.  By the time 'it' gets done the amount of fighting before - years in fact over something as simple as a set of stairs.. that can be finally accomplished in a matter of hours is all about control in my opinion.  

The most recent remarks about not contributing to this marriage, because I did not go to a 9 - 5 fucking job every day-  pushed me over the edge. As I hope it does to every  mother, woman out there.

It is time I take back control of my own life.
I appreciate and good vibes/prayers  you send  & thank all for their continued support.

I want to find a place where I might paint peacefully, surrounded by my dogs and friends who I know want to be in my company.  I am  planning on moving a bit North- you know me...  I Love nature.  

Now, I'm looking into my options and painting peacefully.
Ironically, I do feel pretty peaceful about this decision...
it's how I know it is right. 
​
No more tears.. fuck that.
I take control back,  NOW.

Have faith 
xox <>< 

Back to painting.  
I'm keeping this one.
I'm framing it and getting it ready to hang in my new home.
​

What would Jim do? 
"What are your alternatives?"  He asked me one day.
​
Draw.

I was hoping,  I'd be able to draw a tribute toon but I can not yet.

Believe
xox
<><

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Belive
​<>< xox

Tomorrow, Alice.

Let it Be.
I started this cartoon  last week and grateful, it was a distractions I seriously needed as I forced myself to finish the past few days. I still forgot to add the words .. 'with love' and had to go back in, after it was painted. That was not the plan.  
When will I learn, 'plan's mean nothing.  
Again my plan had a monkey wrench thrown in it the other night, I spent between 1 - 5 a.m. then tearing my office apart and stripping it clean. Until I was exhausted and cried out and went to pass out.. up and at it again at 7a.m., I need a good sleep. 
My guys left me alone. 
They understood & also realized could not help.
Today, still as I added the details on this 'Let it Be'
I apologized to Storm about feeling so sad, this close to Chirstmas'
He understands, points to my cartoon & says the answer is right in front of you...
Let it Bee.

This too shall pass. 
I am taking a break until after the holidays. 
Let it Be.   Let it Bee

Let them BEE.

I hope you have  wonderful time with family & friends,  doing stuff together instead of comparing stuff together!  Making memories instead of creating debt! 
Teach your kids about priorities now, not late fees later.
Making Love, not war. 

Have Faith
​xox <>< 

( one of many)It's TIME! Tis The Season! Everywhere you look glitter, sparkle! Buy! Buy! Buy!
Oh my Gosh I am the first one to get caught up in it!!  Why, I will avoid the mall until - Feb if possible.  I can't do it! It turns me into The Grinch and I will tell you why...

           PLEASE DO NOT GO FURTHER IN DEBT BY USING YOUR
​                   CREDIT CARDS!!!! The stress later - might kill you!

If you go 'way back' in this blog you will read about my credit card experience..
well not all of it. I'm finally ready to share the outcome.
When I was at the beginning of this 'brain thing' journey, it started with me being very sick.
I could hardly get out of bed, Dr.s  had no clue and all the tests and neurologist were starting.  I had like many of you a credit card.  When I worked, I paid the card. I even paid for coverage if you get sick*.  It was fine, bills came in and I made payment. 
When I became ill, and fast - this household lost one income. Fast.
We started to lose control of our finances and I could no longer make payments for my credit card. Which was getting insane with interest payments. 
                    Shit happens.  That is how easy it can happen to you too, btw.  

I couldn't make payments, they started to call. I blogged about it, early on.
I freaked out because I received a phone call and was told:
"You can't make payments? I'll come to your house and make you F*cking pay!"
I got off the phone and was visibly shaking, I did not know what to do, who to contact and never had a call like that before. Nasty & mean,  this guy kept taking it to a new level.

To make a real long story shorter.. I contacted company that 'represented' MC that I acquired at the time (who had nothing to do with master card) lol ... everyone else gave me the run around - PLEASE remember I was very sick - they want  you to give up.
Anyhow - Thank God (literally) as I am sure it is with Gods direction - I got attention.
I was called by MC head office in Canada right away.
A week went by-  they said 'they listened to the calls' I had been getting, assured me the employee had been fired and the gentleman I was speaking with told me in his own words "he was a piece of work and was sorry for what I had been put through" & was then
told about a *'hardship program'.  I could pay only $50 a month for a year with no interest. Tired, sick, frightend by the calls I had been getting, hounded, yelled at, taunted, threatened, called many times a day and never listened or wouldn't pass me over to a supervisor.. I was exhausted.  I agreed.
My health issues progressed, a year flew by & the calls start again and just as bad, again:
I was told 'I was making up the hardship program' or 'they had never heard of it!' RUN around, constant calls and MORE abuse. Where do they get these people!? How can they say they are not aware of them verbally & mentally trying to abuse people they phone?

I had had it!!! It's one thing if we shirk our obligations but no one deserves this over a lousy credit card.  Deathly sick and  they were in fact, making me sicker! I cried on the phone to some of those people, begged to be able to just talk to someone - to try to resolve it.
They have no problems giving credit cards to EVERYONE but they then  MAKE everyone FEEL like a criminal  if they can not pay & NOT EVERYONE is a f*cking criminal!
If thats the case and they think we are criminals then why give us the cards in
the first place - because they don't care.  

Frustrated I finally contacted 'who I did' the first time - ONLY this time - I had had enough. I told them straight out in a letter & e mail:
'BRING to me fucking court, you're never getting another fucking cent  for the abuse & stress you have added to my illness'.
IT was FUCKING abuse, plain and simple.  No amount of  '$' is worth it.
Clearly someone finally listened, my phone rang the next day.

I was told that day, I would NEVER hear from  the credit card company again,
"I'd be wiped off the face of the earth, as far as they were concerned"

I never got another  phone call.
I never got another bill.
I never made another payment.

That was about 3 years ago now.  
I will NEVER own another credit card  again.
We do not own any now and will keep it that way.
I told Norm if he gets one - he can get a new wife too...  ;)  No credit cards.

Even to be removed from your husbands/wifes card - YOU can't!
YOU need his/her permission -(divorce nightmare) and must give it to the bank. 
You can go and buy one - if you need to make a purchase online for a set limit.
I use paypal for everything I purchase online or I don't buy it.

NO ONE NEEDs a credit card anymore.
It's all stuff.
Please don't put yourself in the hands of people who will torment you, they don't care if you are sick or not, and it only adds to illness. OVER stuff. 

​There IS a program called the Hardship program < click to read more.
There is a great documentary - GIVE it to your kid this christmas:
Maxed OUT   ** Please give yourself the gift of education and watch it as well.

Credit card companies when they behave like this are no better than glorified loan sharks,
 I know first hand - I was terrified to answer my phone at a time - when I as waiting to hear from Dr.s and get tests results. A time when I was sick and they just made me sicker. Fact.

*** If you think you can lie - good luck- look at what I had to prove & what they put me through.  Things happen out of our control.  
*That 'extra protection coverage '- miss one payment and it's out the window.
Just thinking of what I went through makes me still feel ill.  
I have the number of the guy from the credit card company  in my wallet, still! LOL
He was not happy to see my name come across his desk a second time. 

ALSO * I learned! I started to RECORD their calls. Tell them that!!!
DO NOT let them abuse you!  * I do think you have to warn them & I seriously do mean record the calls if they are making threats.
 >>>  If you are lying - well, you are part of the problem. <<<
THE real problem is the credit card companies and the fact that they just keep handing them out as they get richer just off of everyones interest - in stuff. Literally.

Is STUFF worth the rest of your life? A christmas gift the kids MIGHT really play with for a year? You will  pay years for.  Your kids do not want you stressed.

AM I a buzz kill? GOOD!!!
I'd rather be a buzzkill that contribute to your mental meltdown in January when you can't afford hydro, never mind credit card bills. xox
​
 Tip 2 tomorrow!!  

Fave Fatih
xox <>< 

You know you want too...  
I live with two men and over the years I have witnessed some serious ball scratching going gone. I try to turn a blind eye as - it is what guys do.  When in the comfort of their own home - they do it more frequently - so I am to understand.  I actually try not to give it too much thought but the other day - something was said along these lines and we all started to laugh, Norm and I giggled about it all night.  Storm not so much.  lol
The drawing a bit of a challenge & I was worried until; Linda was over visiting and we made our way up to my office as we usually do, she spied the unfinished toon on my desk, leaned over to read it and burst out laughing . ;)  Oh, good! I guess I got the point across;)
 I decided to cold and here it is I pray it provided a few of you with a Friday smile! 
I know not all will find it funny. 
Oh well.  It made us all laugh.  Move on to NOW.

Not everyone 'gets it'... move on, focus on NOW.  
Do what you love because you love to do it! I tell you - IF I let every bit of negativity that tried to sneak into my soul - effect me. I would hardly draw.  
My Dandy Lion  (the lion and lamb drawing, below) I had someone (I like - don't really know that well) E me, they 'did not approve' more or less...
"Children seeing it might get confused and think it o.k. to pat a lion...  "
My first reaction was confusion & then.... - lol - defence:  
Give me a break!  ? Really? WTF - Then every lion driving a car - watch out kids!  
How about those elephants driving firetrucks! Hippo's dancing the ballet- watch out toes.
2nd: a bit later. anger.. Was that comment really necessary? WTF? What was that all about?
3rd: hurt... that was cruel.. why would they say that.. I love this drawing.. 
much later... when I remembered to ask for assistance so i could get past it myself..  Done. To each his own. 
The last thing I should care to do is explain about lions and children books and inspiring young imaginations!  
NOR do I care to defend or try to explain a drawing I did to this person. LOL  
It was drawn from love and still holds love for me when I look at it.
Filled with love as I drew it - sent out with LOVE. 
If the first thing another sees is 'a child being attacked from a lion'- by looking at this drawing - who does the problem lie with?
No me.

So - a nice lesson again, I guess 'I' took it personally in the first place as it came from someone 'I' put judgement on- really. My mistake. 
Put your creations out there - with love. 
With Love we can not fail.
Nay sayers or not.  They are here to keep us focused and strong and help me to get along. 
I sent up prayers and smiles finally - that she might one day look at such a simple drawing and see it for what it was, a cute lion and lamb laying in the grass playing - a hope for peace. 
A cartoonists drawing. 
Simple.

Have we not more important things to focus on, or make others aware of?  I do!! 

Yeah! I am back to sharing toons! 
Thank You Norman! & Thank you Normans' employer Findlay Restoration.
Norm loves his job, thank God.  He believes the owner is a good man.  
How awesome! He can't wait to go in the morning! lol - I get up with him now!
He was asked to work all weekend and he did, mostly for me... and partly for his own sanity! 
LOL He lives with me! Some only get a glimpse of what I can BE. <3 
That is why I try to keep it only from love!  I can post cartoons again! 
Share smiles and love! 
OH! The teach only LOVE cards are ready!! 
I can't wait to start mailing some out! 
Stay tooned!! 

xox <><  Have Faith!

It's time. 
A better understanding is needed. 
Men are not mind readers & the majority of people do NOT 'get it'. until you explain it to them.  

For the past 6 years I have suffered with a twitch.. in my head, pretty much constant that progressed & strengthened into such pain, I could not walk or focus. I had surgery and it was not  a complete success. It did remove a ‘Blockage sensation’ in the front of my head I had.  It never went away and in time had  steadily increased in frequency and 
in pain. It is 10:30 a.m. and I’m ready for my nap. I am up, usually at 4... it takes me a while to get medicated and calm my twitch. It is so strong in the a.m.  I can be hungry and the pain goes right to the pit of my stomach, the thought of food suddenly has me gagging.

I try to read. I TRY because it is physically maddening to read with a constant twitch. TRY it. FOR 6 years. It is a LEARNED habit, I cherish.  I also read something that will ‘force’ me to start my day in a positive light. It is too easy to be dragged into darkness.
You have to kick at the darkness until it bleeds daylight. 
I have a friend Mona who reminds me of that. 

‘By 10a.m.  most days I choose- Cry OR  DO  something. 
Not just do.. BE creative. 

Walking is something I MUST focus on most times, I feel like I have a weight in my head wobbling the rest of my body.  When being constantly zapped- what do you do ? 
Learn to live through it &  Thank God for each time you come out the other side. 

I don’t share any of this for PITY. Pity is not what I need. 
I need loving vibes sent. Understanding for me and others like me. 
I have Trigeminal Neuralgia & some. 
I have on average, on a good day 5 major attacks an hour. 
I have a very visual case. I find it difficult also on levels socially.  
Photos taken this a.m. shared. *Hard to do. Even if just in a blog.

People can see my pain. It makes some uncomfortable. It makes me uncomfortable.  
I must force myself out socially. BUT my home is different. IT IS my comfort zone that I NEED badly. I invite only those who I know come with love and nothing else. 
I am very selective of who I even invite for a coffee. 

The woman from the TN Support group, Kathy has been very supportive to me personally. She responds to my e mail, some nice, some angry -(I figure if she can’t FU*KING understand, who will?) She does not judge and encourages me - she also pointed out that  ‘I seem to be ashamed of my disease.’  
I though when I read that: That’s BULLSHIT! 
She was right. I am ashamed. I have no control. ;( 

The world world can see, I have lost control of my own face.  My mind is zapping me 24/7 and it hurts and I can’t stop it.  Dr.s can’t either. Not without a lot of GUESSING.
I sometimes think THANK GOD - they cannot see the pain that comes with. 

I don’t want Pity! I want understanding! 
When I am stressed and the blood starts to race a bit faster- I can start to resemble, as if I am having a stroke. I also can NOT bend over all the time for the same reason.
It triggers stronger attacks and NO thank you! I have enough in a day.

*IF I'm having a PHONE conversation - say with the government - ( LOL - usual bullshit) and I start to get upset - as they an cause you to do - it can trigger an attack,  I slur my words and my face cramps and HURTS. They can’t 'hear' this on the phone and when I go quiet, I’ve even had people who appear to lose patience! 

I AM in the process of finding out how to get my communications in writing! WHY NOT? 
YOU know why - because then when they SCREW UP, you have a record! 

Recently  the government screwed up- after MONTHS of running around and passing the buck- ADDING UNNECESSARY stress to our lives -It was NOT until AFTER I was FORCED  to send a threatening letter - assuring I would be happy to involve Dr.s, Lawyers and the PRESS  - we did get a phone call and APOLOGY and admitting numerous mistakes were made! Amazingly someone was READY to actually listen.  It is draining and I know we are not alone! Speak to anyone and you hear the same stories. 
How many do not have even the energy to argue. Too many.
There services are in place to help us? I find it hard to believe. 

I am so very tired of it. I refuse to be ‘judged’ by anyone WHO does not know and refuses to KNOW OR LISTEN!  
I AM DONE. I will not apologize for this! I will NOT be ashamed and I will educate!
IF I can  -  and I CAN. 
Do I wish I was NOT the one to be educating you on this!? 
YES!!  I AM. Here, Literally the face  of pain. 

I do get breaks, Naps do help. Positive People, Vibes, books, shows.. all help.
Why would anyone want it any other way?   If we lose it  quick, we apologize quick in this house and move on. I thank God for my guys and their patience & LOVE they provide me with every hour of every day.  If I ask. ;) 

Men ARE NOT mind readers. 
A little understanding from strangers - is that too much to ask? 
DO NOT judge UNLESS you know - and even then. Why bother. 
IF you don’t  have anything nice to say - don’t say it. 
DON’T tolerate it either. 

Everything for a reason.  I am learning to embrace all that life gives - as long as I remind myself I am never alone, I’m going to be o.k.   
I’m never alone. ;) I don’t mean the dogs...  lol 

The world can see, I have lost control of my own face.
But they can’t see, I have not lost control of my faith. 

xox
<><   
Have Faith 

More FaceBook Fun

Friday I was up at 4! 
Wishing my guys well on a fishing adventure! They were off! 
Too much energy from the chatting, coffee and making sure all was got & not forgot, instead of reading I decided to log on to FB.  I could not.

On the screen appeared a box saying due to traffic, I had to change my page from a person to “Public figure”. I tried to back out, log off, re log in.. several times. NOPE, same box every time. 
I  proceeded as instructed.  5 a.m..
Clearly, I had no other option. I was relieved to see my page looked exactly the same with all my posts. But NO comments!  ALL gone!  ???
I am sure someone new to the page might imagine why. or how with no activity.  
All the conversations, comments, educational links others shared. GONE.
All the friends I have made over the years - some,  

I’ve actually gotten to know in real life - GONE.
ANY Private messages, Cartoon ideas - saved there, addresses, stories, links - GONE.
Messages from parents with sick kids..   gone and I don’t have any e mail addresses.

Frustrated I turned off the computer, only to arrive back a bit later to see I already had a couple of messages, asking what happened to the page and ‘was it personal?’ 
THEN -  I tried to connect with the person - who is ‘no longer a friend’ and when I visited the page - I see, I can no longer: Comment, Like  or even send people messages. :(
Not even to my son or husband!?

I tried to explain this to someone - only to be doubted. As you can see from the image below from a good - real life friend.. The option to even message is gone.

Oh well! Feeling incredibly frustrated again, I shut it off, sat back and breathed and went about housework.  6 a.m. 
Later I thought log on and see what happening... No news FEED? LOL!
COME ON! 
WTF! But then I realized, I no longer have ‘friends’ so I cant see what you are posting! Not only that, I can’t search!  I have no search window * something must be wrong

Well I felt really sad then... 
No Mykayla going to school- Can’t wait to see her first art project!
How is Rebel growing!? At the same time, I will admit to all of you - forgive me, but  we are close to Cashys anniversay of passing - I’ll never forget because it was the day after my surgery. His mothers pain tears at my heart. Only a mother must feel such a degree of sadness. So I was going to have to  NOT look ... it can consume me. NOT looking for me BTW does Not mean I am not thinking. What that beautiful baby endured only to die
 - yes, that is a “I’m pissed at that GOD!”   for me. 

I am dealing myself now, with an illness... well - you know. 
Last week Storm and I had a very serious conversation where he admitted to me that he does not think I am capable to go camping with them and why.       
He was 100% correct. I was in denial.  
Because of this condition  one minute I look & feel fine the next I am like a drunk staggering & my brain feels as if it’s doing the same thing inside. 
It’s just not safe, & he wants to fish -  I get it. ;)  
He is so good at it. It brings him Peace. 

So..  I take it a a sign. I am grateful for all of you that continue to follow, support
I will take hint from a friend who is on sabbatical and do the same. 
I will post, and then do what I am to do - draw.

Thankfully, I do have a few e mail. 
Several have helped informing a few of where my page is at. 
> Georgia Toons < on Face book.
You know what, it was a lesson. I am tired. I need to back off.   
People who want to contact me will. 
LOL - they will learn it might take a few days for me to get back to them... perhaps even a week.

I will try starting NOW to put up a blog every day! 
Up coming topics:
Cannabis Digest cover.
My first ‘support group meeting’ for TN Trigeminal neuralgia - I’m nervous. ;(
Cancer, children, Cashy and Cannabis
I have several projects on the go, will share take step by step photos of a few awesome crafts! 

I sent my best bud an e mail  the other day the subject line said:
I’m going to bombard the world with love starting today! 
and the fist line inside said: 
And I want you to remind me of that when I feel like telling it to go FUCK itself.

Thank you FaceBook for helping me get he message out, I am grateful and all of you who continue to show us support and yes, smile at my toons. It is what I LOVE to do and I'm gonna do it more.  
Thank you FB - I was content, Life is not about content. 
I need to do more and  see less.

I have to share - what a weekend! The guys came home! The boat would not start!  The truck needed fixed! 10 hours Drive  for nothing.  ;( 
But they went out again and and Storm was determined show Joe a MUSKY!  
LOL     I love this photo. I love my boy. 

I love this life. 
Twitch and all, I am blessed.

Sunday we had a trip to the city planned, visit a few stores and see a couple of friends.
I had it in my mind how the day would go.  It went another way.
Storm and I had a good day and did see some people we have not seen in a while,  & it was great to say Hello and catch up a bit.
But the day had an event that really stuck in my head. Enough to draw it.

I suggested to Storm that we find an outdoor patio so that I could medicate. Which was badly needed. Young st. was busy - what else is knew... the level of poor was new, to me anyhow. Everything you see in the cartoon is TRUE and more.  It was a visual smorgasbord!   

The color, the people, the noise were slightly overwhelming as it is but when we finally found an empty patio and had just ordered a coffee, was about to medicate, I heard this strange beeping...  you know s sound you know but are not sure where....

I turned to see a woman in a hospital gown, no shoes on her feet... walking towards us - with an IV pole - she was hooked up. The blood backed up into the line connecting to her arm.  The machine on the IV pole beeping! 

I instantly thought of TIFF and thought it might be some stunt.. 
She walked right where we were sitting, when an EMT worker pulled up beside her and started to question her. We were sitting right beside her.

He was nice and asked her where she was going, he said she had walked 5 km from a hospital?!  5 km and no one stopped her? No one asked her where she was going or what she was doing. ;(  The conversation continued and he expressed concern about the IV Pole  stating a few times “it’s worth about $3,000...  “  I was thinking - buddy - she is in her hospital gown in the middle of young street attached to an IV POLE do you think she was thinking about the cost?

Well a couple of police cars later... she had slid down the railing where we were sitting almost within touching distance.. she did turn and say “sorry”

I told her she had no need to apologize.  I felt bad for her. She was here from Alberta, no family, at a shelter and sick., She had a bad infection and was in the hospital to get better. It is great in this country she can be treated!  I get it bout the IV Pole.. but really? What has played on my mind is the fact that he got so far. How sad. :( So many people just ignoring everything. stepping over the poor liek they re trash on the street. 

I bet people looked at her  when she was not looking and they thought she must be crazy. Who is cray? THOSE who see and do NOTHING are the closest to mad there is. No compassion.

I did not leave, We sat there. I at one point thought the conversation might have gone differently if she were alone. The other officer made a point about asking her is she had been in trouble and  also the cost of the Pole.
Then they talked about how they needed bigger cars. 

An ambulance finally arrived and she had to go back. Back to where she was so very tired of.  I don’t have the answers. Better security at the hospitals?

This cartoon is full of mental illness. Alcohol abuse. Sexual obsession,  Shopaholics. The rich and the poor. People together but a great percentage alone.  Many on phones. Obese people getting more obese on the takeout  Blvd. as they stroll past a woman begging for food. 

Everyone in their own world. 
NOT.   

WE ARE here TOGETHER!  One day that might be you! 

What is happening to you Toronto? Not the city I know and loved. 
That could easily be someone's sister or mother. 
I talked it over with a friend who work in the city and she said “you see so much so often you just learn to turn your head.”

I don’t think that is what Jesus meant when he said ‘Turn the other cheek’.
Forgive us, for we know squat.  ;( .
xox <>< 

There is a sign of hope in the cartoon. Can you find it?

I was blessed yesterday by my friend Marie!  And what a blessing it was!
Marie makes Trifle. I met Marie through the parish many years ago. 

At functions Marie makes a Trifle.. 
I alwasy get the left overs for Norm and He loves it! 
Remember I'm not a great cook... 
Jello and I have issues, so I have never made it.

My friend Marie showed up yesterday to teach me how! 
It was awesome. I don't even need a recipe! 
I already know it and I can't wait to try another, perhaps one with oranges and chocolate! Nom nom!  We chatted, stirred, sliced, chatted.... went out for a tea in the gazebo and chatted some more. What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. I always find Marie interesting and one of the most compassionate people I know. Marie educates me every time I see her,  of course shw also cares very much about our planet. I guess you could say we are tree huggers and PROUD! lol

I have several friends like this. They inspire me to be a better person.  
I can't wait to pay it forward the next time I have company and share a dessert made with TLC  for them! 

I was blessed with a visit from a  friend - who brought all the ingredients! 
Provided  a TLC treat that my guys have been more that thrilled  with! LOL  
I admitting had it for breakfast and yes, it is almost gone. 
I am sure it will be after dinner this evening! 

Share your gift. 

I needed it. I am thankful for it. 
I had quite an experience the day before in Toronto that I had been thinking about, so it was nice to realign the mind. More on that tomorrow...

 xox  <>< 

I try to live my life stress free - LOL! Don't we all. 
I understand there is stress we can't avoid it, death, illness and many unexpected events... but there is stress we can avoid. It's the petty stuff. The small stuff.  
I constantly try to be a better person - it's not an easy task, I am human and I lose my temper and drive - more often than I wish to admit ;)  That being said, I have learned  "the truth' does set you free.  ;) !! 
I made some changes. 
~I don't assume - if it is bothering me - as in 'on my mind' - I ask.  
~I tell the truth. If you don't want to know don't ask... I am realizing, most people have a pretty good idea before they ask -  do you agree?
I try to be nice.... lol - If I can't, I try not to say anything at all,  unless of course it means something important to me! What are you waiting for speak up! 
TRY to speak with some thought.. I recently watched a tedtalk  (I think)  and the gentleman speaking said  remember this when speaking: HAIL
I agree!  
It is what I try to do and will continue to do as long as I'm here. 
It's how we learn.  
I certainly have held nothing back on this blog to date. 
I made a promise to myself and God as long as I'm here to speak my mind.  I just so happen to do it with a blog.  
Others do it other ways. It is not how we do it but what we say. 
FOR one day try not to say anything negative about anyone!   
Not even Rob Ford or Steven Harper!  LOL  Can you do it? 
it is a habit like anything else. It needs work to make it a pattern. 
Either way... HAIL is something I think we can all learn. 
I work daily on eliminating gossip, it's easy to 'get caught up'.. but I think I'd rather get caught up in some art.  Tune it out to TOON in.
<><   xox   
HAIL! 

Last Sunday I went out to pick up the paper at the end of the drive way.. a seemingly simple task - TURNED NOT.  LOL

I spied the paper at the end of the drive way, a beautiful day and I had just been contemplating,  should attend mass?  It’s been a while...  such a beautiful day, my guys away - peace & quiet ...  “No” I’ll get the paper and relax.  
So I thought.

I opened the door and headed to the end of the driveway, my tiny Poppy had poked her head between my feet and was out the second the door was opened!  She does not like to be without 'mom' and her new thing is - if she can get outside with me - she thinks she is going. LOL  

It is very quite in our neighborhood on a Sunday early a.m., but my neighbor Diane also happened to be on her driveway (across from me) and she was talking to a older gentleman  who did 'not' have his little dog on a leash. It was a good little dog and stayed with him but to the girls: she/he was  'LOOSE' & free and needed to be told! 

Poppy spied Diane, then the little dog running around and be-lined it for the road! 
Me being a mom - GASP!! BUT as she started yapping, I'm still just out the door.. Daisy - hearing Poppy’s barking flew past me and out and Scruffy followed for the excitement! 
* Old Tequila is deaf and was oblivious to all of this. Thankfully.

Daisy starts after the small dog, running lose - to protect Poppy, Poppy is chasing the little lose dog and Scruffy is already getting loving from Diane and could care less about anything else. I’m running around,  darting left and right!!  Trying to get Poppy and Daisy and it’s impossible as the other dog is loose and running away from them - LOL  
Canine CHAOS! 

All the while the old man and Diane, just watching in utter amazement and amusement... lol - not much else they could do.
I FINALLY stopped focusing on Poppy and Said: "DAISY! COME!!!"
Daisy came, sat and then Poppy followed. 
GEEZE!! LOL - My bad. 

As I was walking back to my house, across the street, Daisy by the collar, Poppy in my arms and telling Scruffy to follow... I glanced down at myself. 
I was IN ONLY MY purple house coat slippers and NOTHING else. I spied a hint of a nipple and I felt my entire body BLUSH at that moment. 

OMGod!! What did they just witness? 
Later, I thought about it and the bible quote “when two or more people speak my name, I am there”. LOL
I know Diane was thinking it - the elderly gentleman was speechless.. but I bet he was thinking it! LOL  
No mass needed this day. ;)

Later I saw Diane and we both had a good chuckle.
She said “Boy, I bet you never thought you had that in you!” 
She was right.

Never a dull moment. Thank you Lord for your continued sense of humor.
Note to self: Dress before you go out to get the paper.
& Poppy needs some listening lessons!! 

My little girl is ONE this week...
Turn  into a toon contest details tomorrow!!!

Wow this was/is a difficult blog still to this date. 
Let me start by saying Norm (my hubby of 20 years) can drive me nuts!  I live with him and I’ve said a few things about Norm in the past -some not so nice! LOL 
BUT NEVER will you hear me say he is NOT a hard worker. ASK anyone, and he really gives it his best. 

As a matter of fact, the last company he was at, he was there 9 years, when the bosses house needed work - It was Norm that did it. He is also an incredible trouble solver and is called into many sites where they don’t quite know what happened or even how to fix it - they called Norm many times.  I still remember the first Christmas, the BOSS made a point to thank Norm for joining the company and all the amazing work he was capable of!  I am well aware of what Norm is capable of! Everything you see the busy beaver Norm built! He never stops.  He is also a VERY loyal employee. 

A couple of years ago - days after an expo - I was on the back deck recovering! I am so exhausted after an expo - it’s given me an entire new respect for those that do it full time!  Well, Norm shows up beside me and it’s only 2p.m.  Another thing about Norm - He is never sick, never calls in sick - unless he is dying and never plays ‘hookie’ - he then proceeded to tell me he thinks he has been fired!! 

I was shocked! What could he have possibly done to be fired!? 

He left a magazine and a tiny bag of catnip at a job site.

Norm was (and is) so proud of us as a family - what we do and the EXPO just literally passed not 24 hours was EXCITED,  Norm although never seen is a big part of it all - I’d never be able to do it without him - he was sharing with the guys at work  how the weekend went - one of the guys asked Norm to share our son’s story -with him... Norm went to his truck and brought one of the magazines - the Treating Yourself magazine that featured Storms story in it, (You can read it here) he also had one of my business cards I hand out at the expo. - * I’ve blogged about it before.. I hand out business cards with small amounts -1 tsp. of catnip in them, CLEARLY marked CATNIP * Marco made sure I did this for the expo. They are great people see me hanging out little baggies and come and get them, only to giggle when they see that is is catnip. They continued to discuss as they ate lunch...

Norm forgot the magazine and the catnip at the house (an empty home at the time)
he was called into work the next day and a STRIP was ripped off of him!  The boss was disgusted!!  He said “The client said the company had a bunch of STONERS working for them!”

Norm was sent home until they decided what to do about it...
I tried right away to sort it out! Poor Norm was so upset! I could not figure it out! 
It WAS just a magazine - found on an empty job site. No cannabis - No shoddy work - NOT FROM MY HUSBAND, no smoking - NORM NEVER smokes Cannabis.. and it was the magazine explaining Storms story!  I sent an e mail saying I would be happy to apologize to the home owner and explain about Storm and the situation. 

Nothing.. no reply.. 2 days later - Norm was called into the office and the bosses wife -  told Norm how “she could understand what we are going through...”  REALLY!? 

BUT, they had to teach others a lesson!  
Norm was sent home from work with no pay for 2 weeks. 

I WAS LIVID. I contacted a lawyer who told me that he had no doubts that what they were doing was illegal but he was out of Ontario and I’d have to call someone locally- Keep in mind I am not well - pre surgery.  I have to pick my battles - We are very much like the rest of you and LIVE paycheck to paycheck - That was over $2000. gone that we were not expecting!  It was and alway be to me, when they literally took food off our table. OVER a magazine and ignorance. 

Well - everything for a reason - the irony was I DID just finish the expo and we had some money that went all to bills- so much for my new glasses. It was June and we decided to HAVE FUN! Stuff got done! Norm had an unexpected vacation. I did not want him to go back. BUT he knew he had to - until we could sort stuff out.

EVERY time I thought of it, it hurt. Why? I should be use to ignorance and judgement by now, I’ve had it from a few good friends. BUT NORM? Norm never intentionally hurts a fly, he is such a hard working guy and he really was loyal specifically to the boss, I liked him too. He was a great hugger. <That was it. WE were hurt. Were we not part of the  company family all these years. They know what we deal with, Norm such a great employee - did they not even think to defend him!?  They said the owners were muslim- and that Cannabis is a sin. All I could do was think ‘GIVE Me a break’.

AND to prove a point?!?- $2000. What exact lesson was that? It wasn’t bad enough that you teated him like a criminal and ripped a strip of him for a topic that is about our son’s life saving medicine! I can tell you it was a good thing it was Norm in that office and not me.- Norm who would bend over back wards and did many times for that f*cking company.  Well - it was not long after that that he went into one of the VP’s office and questioned money that was not on his paycheck for hours worked - the response he got was “GET out of my office YOU are on thin ice! “   Talk about professional.  That was it. It got so bad I could hardly talk to Norm - I hated him going to work for people who treat employees like crap but we have bills to pay ;( 

Thecompany continued to ‘bully’ - the only word that I can think of.. what a way to treat your employes that work to get you where you are. Men who all have problems of their own at home, and are berated by ‘bosses’ that they help make rich.

Ask and ye shall receive, one fellow was leaving  the company not too long ago and Norm mentioned to him as he was leaving “tell them if they need anyone else call me..”

Norm later received a call from the owner of a company called Findlays restoration.
He was asked to come in for an interview, he was offered less pay - not much less but a bit - he came home and I said - “I DON'T CARE! TAKE IT and get OUT!"  

Ironically as Norm was waiting to serve out his TIME - the last 2 weeks.. a memo went out to all the guys = calling them all a bunch of morons more or less- that need their ‘mommy’s to pack their lunch boxes’ and ‘should have memo’s stapled to their temples”.  I kid you not.   WOW.  

Norm is like a new man! I had a hard time thinking about all the rotten stuff the last place did - because he is so happy at this new place! He comes home daily tell me things - like all the others that work here can’t stop raving about what an awesome guy the owner is, he never yells, he is a great person to work for, he makes you feel appreciated... 
Just a few short months & his mood is a complete turn around. 
All I can say is thank you. Thank you for a lesson on so many levels.  

Thank you for teaching us - no matter what - we will fight for what we believe in and under no circumstance ever - will we be ashamed out Storms medicine and sharing it with the world.  Friends, family, co workers - until someone walks in your shoes I could care less what they think.  It was an expensive lesson  ‘it’s only money’ 

As it stood we were provided for ❤  and once again we survived. 

AND: One door close and another SWINGS OPEN!!  In this case the drywall, wood & paint is greener on the other side!
Have faith!  <>< XOX

Last Monday I guess I finally had the straw that broke this camels back.
I went for a test, one I had hoped and prayed would help Dr.s see what is finally going on in my head.  It was not a pleasant experience to say the least. I left feeling defeated, degraded and ashamed at myself.   I had questioned the test as I understood I was to have something different, I was told over and over I was wrong.  I can tell you that for the first time in my life I truly felt like a piece of meat.  Once home I called and confirmed I was to have a different test. Then I got a bit of 'Blah blah blah...' - and it did not make anything any better only worse. I  then think I had a bit of a breakdown. I cried off and on for two days.  I needed to get away.

I am blessed with a long time friend who when I asked if  I could use his cottage, he offered me his home instead as no one is in it at the moment.  I house sat.
I was nice to sit  here too as he is a special friend - he has kept me sane these past years with paper alone!!  He has supported my cartooning since day one. I could not have done it without him, well...  perhaps,  we find ways.  His friendship for over 20+ years  has always been a treasure.  He knows it.  LOL
To say I was 'roughing it' would be a lie.  Central vac, hot tub...   amazing privacy & deer!
A Sasquach!?  Fire, snuggling with Poppy.  Darkness and quite like I have not witnessed in a long time, talk about sooth the soul! 
I think I made a  new friend to boot!  We shall see.   Everything happens for a reason ;) .

 I have taken photos, walked, explored a little but mostly, I have slept and drawn for 6 days and feel rested. With only Poppy for a companion we have had some fun! Today she lost a tooth.  I have to admit both, too afraid to venture out after dark - she has been an awesome little pup in every way I can think of - oh well except for her obsession with the door stopper - Boooiiinnnggg, Booooiiinnnggg, Boiiinnngg!! LOL  So happy she just discovered it and not when we arrived. 

As much as I needed to get away, I need to return to my family -who is missing me and visa versa.  

Blog and new TOONS!!!  I am amazed at what I drew while away, I listened to what I thought I should draw about and I was never let down.  It was not always about cannabis. It is always about humans.  HIV, Future of Health Canada, A political statement that I know many of us all feel right now, a special toon with my son,  and some Poppy - because -  I still have a every day life...

Thank God.

I AM ready to continue. 
Next Blog Sunday!

I sit and giggle that I called my strip On MY mind.. really. 
Georgia, Georgia, no peace I find
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind.
I LOVE Willie! 

I also have stuff ON MY MIND. 
It sure feels like it anyhow.  I realized I started my blog with the cartoon Blah Blah Blog.  Before I even knew what was going on was going on.  June 21,2010... this is a long time. Steadily progressing then surgery, again progressing. 
YES, I am thinking PLEASE LET them figure this out! I am exhausted, everyday is a challenge to continue through normal chores and experiences with a constant  prodding in my head every few minutes...   at the same time terrified that they will find something! 
How can they not? I have asked my self this before. 
Apparently this test will  help see if there are any blocks or aneurysms. 
Which makes me think - why the heck have I not had this already!? 4 YEARS. 
I know many suffering worse & waiting even longer. 
What is going on with this country? 
I read today of a family that has moved to Colorado to access cannabis for their  baby!? 
THEY KNOW IT WORKS! We know it works and the government knows it works that is why they are all about the $$$.  How shameful is that? 
We are Forced to take that route or we face possible  conviction in this country that recognized Cananbis as a legal medicine - No wonder I'm twitchin! !!!  

Enough - I need to go PAINT. My only true mind release! It takes thought, I become absorbed and LOVE EVERY SECOND of it. Twitch too. It is what it is.  
I am inspired by my little Poppy.

My handsome son is driving me tomorrow! Up and early! We will have breakfast and head into the big city! LOL  Before many rise for the day - I'll be back on my way, home to bed probably! 

I believe in the power of Prayer and Good VIBES,  I recently watched an interesting Documentary that stated it is often used by the USA government, Masons and prayer groups all over the world.  STRENGTH in numbers especially of the MIND! 
I know that already though.

Perhaps we should set a date - Wake up and demand  decriminalization!  
Ha ha ha 
That would be awesome! 
So any good vibes &  positive prayers send them! 
I am open to receive! Not just today every day!!! 
Bring it on! 

 Tomorrow is a Guest Blog! Please Read!!
 ;-)  
xox <><

My son often says to me... " Let it go... " and yes it is a trait I need to learn to be better at. 
I let stuff 'get to me'. Always have. I wear my heart on my sleeve. So what. I will not apologize for it. It amazes me how I am realizing what triggers such emotions that GET me going.  So - everything happens for a reason. 
If you ask my opinion I tell you and honestly. 
I made a promise about 18 years ago that I am not breaking for anyone. Including myself.
The truth shall set you free! ;) I tell you WHAT!  It never lets you down when you want to have that perfect 'reply' to someone, especially when the topic is something YOU are passionate about.  I have a few of those topics.
I believe in standing up for what I believe in. Bridges are bound to get burned. 
Not everyone is going to love me. That is not why we are here. We are hear to learn from each other. Make each other THINK! Good and bad lessons. Wise &  not so wise choices ;-) The greatest lesson in all of it I believe (and the hardest)  is THEN to move on! 
MOVE ON! Let it out of your heart.  Distraction robs us of today, now and doing what we LOVE with those we love. WHY the heck is anyone surrounding themselves with people that bring them misery and frustration and pain? 

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

A friend had some plants taken from his back yard.  I am hoping it was just some thoughtless kid and NOT someone he knows.  He is upset and stressed. I GET IT. 

How do you think I feel when I worry about he proposed future of medical Cannabis in Canada today?  Not being able to afford medicine that Storm needs. Medicine I need. 
I get it.

Someone stole the plants - to get high. Not thinking much about anything other than themselves and getting a BUZZ. The real buzz is the BUZZ kill  a patient now is dealign with over a plant. Suffering - a few months supply of medicine gone. Thief.

If this PLANT were decriminalized and be as IT SHOULD  - a seed to plant for all human kind - no one would need to go around and STEAL it! 
What other weeds do people do around and steal!? Not my dandelions.  

Prohibition is turning people into criminals over plants. 

Not the Plant and not the person - that is HUMAN NATURE, to want to feel good. 

Please THINK before you consider lifting a plant you might see  that does NOT belong to you.  It could mean a lot more than getting high to someone - I could mean them being able to keep their job, or function with their family.. it could mean life or death. 

A Thief is a Thief. If they steal from one with no guilt, they will steal from another. 
It is sad. I don’t think anyone ever trusts a thief again. Including themselves.

I also feel there is an entire beautiful energy surrounding this plant - bad karma if you ask me.  Not a high I would enjoy.  Not one someone who truly appreciates cannabis would do.
VOTE  & GROW it. 
xox <><

Last night I went to bed in tears. Feeling completely frustrated and overwhelmed.

I had another visit with the neurologist and after the usually questions and concerns, I asked him if he actually had a diagnoses, after talking about Hemi facial spasm and Trigeminal neuralgia, the 5th and 7th nerve...  No.  
 They cannot understand why I am having what I am and the pain associated with it.

 I feel when I tell them how bad it is - it is not that they don’t believe - CLEARLY there is something going on, but I think they don’t ‘get the severity’ of it? I wonder is it because I am not in the office sobbing?  Or that I don’t lie around all day feeling sorry for myself? 
I can tell you, I DO feel like doing that. 
 I fought off tears several times in his office yesterday.  IT is much harder to try to remain positive and busy and hopeful.   

After the last surgery,  I do feel better BUT whatever is going on is still going on and every day It MAKES me very aware that It can all be gone in an instant. I struggle with this reminder - as much as I AM REALLY grateful the new found appreciation and determination.. everyday thinking my brain is going to explode is exhausting.  
These constant electrical zaps  leave me feeling  ‘fizzled” 
My attack last week left me exhausted for 2 days.  
I still have them constantly.. with a “doozie’ every now and then making an appearance.
Usually one a day. ;(

In his opinion, it is not getting better (mine too - it’s going on 4 YEARS slowly escalating)
He feels more surgery is the only opinion. The first not a complete success (it was in the fact that I’m still here! :)  NOT knowing exactly what they are going in for...  has me not to keen on the whole idea again - recovery itself seems daunting. Been there done that and in NO hurry to do it again.
I am frightened.

I need to take a break and think. 
I wondered about sharing this... it’s time. My hand forced by someone on FB.  This is my life at the moment and for what ever reason this is where I am meant to be. Happy or not. 

I had a lesson last week on FB when someone was PISSED at me. Angry because I have not been responding to his messages or posts.  First let me tell you having over 500o people on FB has it down falls, like messages every time you log on, I am constantly added to groups, events and my messages are never fewer than 50 every time I log on. Hard to keep up with for anyone, never mind someone who is also trying to work, be a mom, cartoonist, wife and suffers from some crazy brain thing.
I then was angry with him and asked him if he was aware I had brain surgery and have still been dealing with serious issues. No he was not. 
No he does not bother to read my post, blogs etc only pissed that I did not share his website and his goings on.  Yes, he apologized.                        

So here it is. I am not well. I have not been well for a while. I have been sicker than I have let on to most but a few are very aware of what has been going on. On top of all this I deal with other stuff, like the constant concern and battle over my sons medicine. Cannabis.
Stress added to the mixture - not good BUT unavoidable.
 A growing concern with changes expected in the near future, no thanks to Health Canada. 

I have hoped people would focus on my work and not my health and it appears to have worked out ;-)  I can’t get mad for the lack of others understanding, awareness or even compassion at times. It says more about them than it will ever say about me. Simple.

I will end by saying that when I woke up today the first thing I did was thank God for opening my eyes and for the fact that I got out of bed.
I will NOT spend the day in bed crying, I will draw, spend the day with the girls (Storm is camping) I will celebrate every meal I am blessed with and every conversation I have. I will continue to hope I get better.  I will have faith that everything does happen for a reason. All of this BTW has made me a better person. 
 I will also continue to use my cannabis as it numbs the pain and gives me a break if only for minutes at a time. I am grateful for it. It keeps me positive! 

So why share? In hope that if ONLY one person stops and thinks before they make assumptions, judge or even aggravate -  do you really know what each other is dealing with? How about we first ask ourselves that before we jump on some ones back as to why we are NOT the focus of THEIR attention. 

Compassion and LOVE.
I am stronger today than I was last night. 

I know why I am drawing and now I know why a few years ago we called my strip:
Cultivating Compassion.
GROW LOVE.     

xox <><