Tomorrow is valentines day and I will be sharing a new cannabis valentine card on Facebook, two actually.. the paint is drying  as I type!
The one above was painted with LOVE!  It's on it's way to a new home already.

The message is the one I like best, because it believe it to be true
Judging anyone over a plant says more about you.

There are far worse things in the world.
As a matter of fact...  if you are judging someone over 'growing a plant',  the world is in serious trouble & you will be busy the rest of your life.We all do it.
What distinguishes one plant from another - 'man saying it is so.'
On the universal day of love - lets do just that.. Love each other .

Believe xox <><

,I am really enjoying Instagram!! 
You don't really know anything about anyone.  Only what you SEE. lol
It is more sharing your own images that someone else's.
Unless stated you don't know if it is a man or woman & there is far less politics than FB
WAY LESS Trump - and that makes it worthwhile right there.  

You can select who you want to 'follow' based on visual - I've said it a million times - I'm visual & I am a visual learner- Craftsy- Youtube, Pin bring it on!
There ARE no excuses any longer!  What catches my attention on IG is NOT WHO but What! For example before Christmas - I was drawn into & curious by the artwork of one person named 'Konrad'- I assumed a man - haunting images - I  cant read the language - yet the images keep me coming back and I follow.
To make a long story short I approached Konrad * (Now by another more feminine name I call her I'll keep it a secret!) with a message and ask if 'they ? - would be interested in _Bartering Christmas cards?
That is how it begins, the next thing I know, I now have a wonderful new penal in Russia!! 
She wants to learn English - so, the deal is Now we exchange mail only by snail mail! ;)
I'm excited!! I got her package first! It was such a wonderful gift! She still does not have mine, I am not worried as a package I sent to Norway Dec. 5th Just arrived the other day! Almost 2 months to the date! So, Russia- it might be a few more days.
The timing was blessed - I was on a roller coaster with news of Jamie,  it was nice to have such a neat, cool, 'Russia!?' - little 'pick me up reminder from my  incredibly talented Russian friend! Who knew?  How cool is this world Right now?  Please - I asked her and she said it's o.k. Go check out her work.. WORK it is, she is also a student is a 'institution for architecture. I see the amount of work, passion and thought she outs into her drawings!
This is another talented young woman going places! Konrad. ;)

Storm has teased me, I cant stop eating the chocolates- even tho I was going to share them with everyone- they have the cutest little wrapper.. 
From Russia with Love-  both Norm & Storm thought it was very cool - so I guess - you just have to ask.

Once I learned more - like He was a She, and only in her early 20's - a student, l I made sure to ask her, to tell her mom what we were doing.  ;) Mom first.  All is good.
I can tell you, her English is better than mine already - her vocabulary extensive.
I guess she is using a dictionary right now to translate my letters and write back,  what a job  for her and I am honoured that she is taking this task - one I know, I would not even attempt.  I wonder how much she retains- I am sure it's quite a bit- I can tell by her work- she pays attention to detail.
I am very pleased to have a new friend. I've blogged about Mona before, my young friend I  wrote to many  many MOONS ago - we too, are friends on instagram. 30 years later (?) I am keeping my account more to for my visual mind, stimulation if you will.  I am following only a few artists and will change so my feed changes.
More drawing and meditation. I'm trying a new online brain meditation also.  
​We've just started and agreed to be snail mail pals, today I wrote to Yasunori Abe-in Japan, to be continued tomorrow!  & Todd in prison. 

I honestly do feel a connection to a few people - I'm not one to question why or try to understand. This young woman is gifted and here for a reason - this much I know.
Aren't we all? Her package warmed OUR heart- TEA! It's tea in the lipton doll, (duh)I have 'Lipton french onion soup' on the brain!  I read the name and...  anyhow, its wonderful.
Every drop... 'from Russia with Love! <*Just saying that makes Norms day. Bond freak, that he is.

Thank you for the gift of today. 
Believe
​xox <>< 

Here is Randal Ralph the Reality Elf with Tip two!
I don't gift wrap.. well sometimes and only with paper that I have had in my craft room for a decade. I don't buy it anymore. I feel it is like gambling; may as well take that money and burn it - along with the ink, chemicals and trees. 'Reality Elf 'remember.
BUT! If you think I don't like gift wrapped gifts you would be mistaken.

I do like the VISUAL "presentation' wrapping and some people are very creative, I have this friend who's  wrapping would put Santa to shame - her  gifts so visually beautiful, each wrapping was a gift in itself!  I must admit, Norm too has a knack and he loves to wrap.
The majority of us  don't do a great job, or even enjoy the task that much - so:
         Let it Go!!  Tis the Season to Be Jolly! Start a new Holiday tradition!  
Get creative! Tie it in a pillowcase! A Reusable gift bag - I already received (TY Mona! xox) a very cute chihuahua "new library bag", a old drawing! An old cherished T! 
ESPECIALLY for kids who  TEAR it to shreds- Who could care less about  the appearance or thought and only want the gift (we've all been there) - can't we teach them  that until they grasp the concept of environment - we should let them have the choice wrapped or reused.

Never all mind all of that because - the only thing that DOES matter - Is your love, patience and attention during the holiday season and every day of the year.
It's just stuff and it's just stuffed wrapped around the stuff.

Love is all you need, fa la la la la  laaaaalaaaalaaalaa.
Paper or not - I still peek.  TY Mona!  
Have Faith
<><
xox

A few things on my mind...  
Our mushroom meal, Thursday my son took em to dinner with the Mycological society! They have a meal - the last was in May I believe, and it was terrific!
My son is now the director of the Forays! He really enjoyed them and was asked if he would consider helping and excepted ;) I am always proud of Storm but thrilled he is pursuing his interests & helping. 
This evening was o.k... lol   It was awesome because I had the evening with Storm & saw several I had not seen in a while, I met some new people and had had 'a meal'.
I say 'a meal' because in all honesty, the meal was o.k..  I use to run a restaurant and I can tell you, we had some talented chefs. Ken, Troy and Erin (a woman - and she was my favourite) and I know what went into having a packed house and thought that went into preparing a special menu...           the food was o.k.
My seat was jammed in a corner, no one else could get it or out I had to step over a chair ? 
It was a safety hazard to say the least.
 As soon as the meal was finished it was 'wham, bam, get the fuck out vibe'. I hardly had one  SIP of my coffee - it was taken and all the drinks were cleared off the tables. 
On top of that it hit me at 2:00a.m., abruptly.  ;(  Kowabung.. not fun. I spent between 2  & 7 in the bathroom.  Another friend told me she does not attend for the same reason - the variety of mushrooms seems to upset her stomach. I'm not sure if it was that or the oil that we dipped our bread into that tasted rancid.  I will not promote the restaurant - my mom told me it was too bad, she and my dad use to go there years ago and 'the Italian was amazing.' 

I woke this a.m., read and drew the following cartoon. I don't get it all the talks of the denying refugees...  what it does boil down to is  people. people needing help. people wanting what we already have.  Why wouldn't they want to go to the USA - the land of $ and dreams and STUFF and commercials about FOOD & stuff and the Karddashians - look how OTHERS live! IF I watched Television that is what I might think also. I don't.
I DO have some good friends in the states, ( we say that here: 'in the states...')
Good people who care about people. 
ONE love means just that.
Really, they are coming over on boats hungry, cold, abused and beat down. With the clothes on their back. IF we all donated one OUTfit - well that would be that problem solved right there. Someone made me think about his when they said what about our American Children - who ae hungry - why ask me - ASK your government.
Charity begins as home. - but that does not mean it should stop there.
Of course there will be bad people. THERE are already BAD people everywhere who could bomb what ever they want. 
What IF it was you? And the bible belt? Jesus loving humans out there - I am one of them.
Really?? How can you say you believe and turn he other cheek- in a bad way. Denial.
This, this is the true test. Not if you swear, even have an affair..  turning away people who need it and are suffering and dying.  
Norm said the Derringer of Q107 said "Americans said 'if you let in the immigrants we'll go up to Canada'... lol  How is this any different? 
Where did your parents come from?
 & their parents?  
 Just curious.

​Do you believe - then ask yourself  What would jesus do.   Simple.

Have Faith
xox
​<><

LOL! Here it is, is it what you thought it might be? lol 
It is for me.  I read the line and this is what produced in my imagination.
Bugs and summer.  I hear them mostly and from time to time I catch a glimpse - usually when not expecting it- like before the thing is in my hair, after I walked into the tree it was dandling from! 
Persistant creatures on a mission to survive.  
A Cicada is still a Cicada, no matter how different it can appear.
One I would sit and watch for hours- add 'wings' and I'm off running! lol
We all look so different, just like the many different varieties of other creatures in this  world.  How boring if all Birds looked the same!
Cats for that matter too..  If you love cats chances are YOU love the cat family.
Humans are one family of creatures. Each one looks completely different, yet we all have the same inside parts  with the exception of Adam & Eve parts. 
Simplify it even more...
We all have a heart that beat.

Simplify it. 
One Love.

Have Faith
xox <><

FaceBook notices - when will I learn- shut them off!  Lead me not into temptation, an e mail notice arrived --  it's David Kaminski's Birthday!  My other 'Favorite Glass Guy!'  I won't log into FB but I will blog about David! It's time & it's his Birthday! 
Here I go... I Love David! lol - I do and he knows it! I tell him monthly at least - lol in e-mail and FB messages. 

When did I meet David? It was before the first EXPO and it was at an event, put on by a new Cannabis awareness event/club.  Instantly - I liked David!  His smile! His enthusiasm for life an his Faith in God & in Cannabis was obvious all around!   I had a little table set up and  we talked about Storm and Cannabis.  Our photo below - we have both 'grown' quite a bit in 5 years I think.  I next met David again at the first TY EXPO we shared! He was there with his glass & so it began. My introduction into the glass world!
*Remember at the TY medical Cannabis EXPO - I had no time to socialize - let alone go around looking and learning about  glass, it was where I was (thankfully) introduced to a world on new art and artists! I'm pleased to thank God for putting David on a path that has taken me where I had no concept... as I sit here and touch (close to my heart, mentally & physically) my Laughing Buddha pendant,  Jerry Kelly created.  I alter that with my Zen Kitty pendant by Stephen Boehme! - Which is  guarded by my 'mighty hippo' when not wearing.  Storm pointed out " you have the coolest jewelry of anyone I know!"  Me too! I agree.  LOL  That and my promise of Love from Norm ;) I always wear. hee hee hee
Wow! Close to my <3 and I have David to thank - he introduced & arranged for Jerry and Stephen & I to work together. This is why David still does not have an original. lol
It has to be special.  It has to be one that says this is for David. * ALSO - it is the only time some said 'hold a piece of art work'  and someone else really begged/bugged me - and I let it go. That was David! I still feel bad about it ( I will make it up to him)- clearly he forgave me it was long before all of this. That is David.  < He WILL forgive you and he will mean it! & you will know he does.

David is a millie glass artist as well! lol - Im so impressed with David the person  I almost forget about David the artist ;) UNTIL I see what he is doing- some he won't show me!! I want to know what happened to the puppet- do you think he will answer my e mail? I'm smiling.  

From what I gather his speciality is black and white- it has a clean crisp signature- again  I'm amazed at he level of talent to be able to create in glass, many have difficulty with on paper!  I recently drew him a few little ideas - I hope he makes them, they made us giggle. He made a 'Wilma' that Fred would go bonkers over! Me too - lol.  What stands out about David in my mind above his glass is his love for others and positive attitude and never ending  display of compassion and patience for others- lol - just watch his FB page. He puts it to the test all the time and I love it!  
Oh! He also - I recently discovered (God has a way of showing me things when I NEED to see them) ha quite the talent for writing as I discovered in some back issues of a glass magazine - I'm only now getting around to reading!  A man of many talents.
He inspires me to be a better person.

Storm and I have quite a on going joke at the moment and he teases me- David said he sent something - well I've learned these glass guys - are like... me -  LOL! We ask - 'whats your address?' and then - WAIT...It's not intentional it is a fact and I understand it. We are creative, busy and doing 'it' all. David had a contest a while back - I did not get my mille slice :( - I didn't blame David - it was not  the first item I have no received- I blogged about it before - I'm having trouble with the postal service. Stuff is going missing! We were discussing it as a family last night.  What do you do?  I replaced the lock!? Who do you call?
*Say Ghost busters and I might poke you  in the eye!  Blame? Ask? Lost in transit? 
& Health Canada wants us to get our medicine like this? 
So, David said he mailed something, I remind Storm to check the mail and he said - "I don't know about David..." (with a smirk on his face) -Storm agrees with me... David is one of the nicest people we know.  BTW - he really did just check - no mail! good! I just want to wish David Happy Birthday! I am so happy he is is my life. He makes me smile. 
He is also a Jesus Fan. <>< !   Or should I say...  Yes! Yeshua !  Hee hee hee - couldn't resist. ;) 
Have a peek at some of Davids work below. Did you read the blog, about the time I lost the glass slice he gave me -TWICE!? - LOL - So Forgiving!  
<>< 
Have Faith 

What does One Love mean?  
One Love, One Heart... Let's get together and feel alright! 
Read the paper.  People killing each other over everything. It's endless.   Yet, turn on Bob Marley song - how many sing along?  Not even thinking about the words.     I myself  have to remind myself, One LOVE is exactly that -  what should matter?    Not skin color.  I read today of a young black man who said he had been stopped  over 50 times in his life and questioned by police in Ontario! Wow. How sad is  that? I hope  instead it would be a reminder that God has made everyone of us different and we can't change the past, but we can take some control of the future! Start by being nicer to each other! SIMPLE! 
For one day -  keep in your mind ***We are ALL just humans here!***  
That just came to me - something I read this morning by Jon Mundy.
I know it sounds 'Hoaky'  but let's 'Give it a rest, shall we?

I'm planting a seed! 
The next time you are out walking, you will catch yourself judging someone! 
& you will say - *We ARE all just humans.  And you will stop. ;)

Skin Color, hair style, clothing, tattoos, stuff or lack of stuff, tops, topless - lol!  
No Judging!

The past is the past, I will learn from it but I will not focus on it.
I can only try NOW to  be better.

Time to PAINT! Time to spend with God.
I was called 'prolific' today.. lol - I had to look it up!  It made me smile! 
lol     Thank the Lord.

have faith <>< xox

Divided we fall...

It’s hard to comprehend somedays to an outsider what it happening in the United States regarding Cannabis laws. I don’t understand how a country called the UNITED states of America can be so ‘UN-united’.   It is one thing to be fighting for the same rights across Canada - from Coast to Coast we continue  to fight for our rights to grow our own medicine and legalization.  

Imagine being a mother in the united states when  your child is suffering, dying from illness you know Cannabis can help - and only a drive away, a state away, the medicine, possibly even the CURE, is readily available IN your country - for others. If you live in a state not yet legal, you are out of luck.
It must be frustrating on an entirely new level, I am grateful I cannot comprehend.

When I hear other advocates discussing with parents of ill children “Move to Colorado!” - it grates my nerves.  
You have no idea the stress parents are already under, illness, hospital bills, family stress,  job security, bills - it’s endless.
Then to have to pick it all up and move away from your support groups, ADD new stress on top of it regarding living situations, schooling,  leave your family & friends - JUST so your child can access Cannabis. A right that should be provided to every child in need. 
I don’t understand.  Do not get me wrong - if my child was sick - my bags would be packed!    ...Why should they?

I can image many Americans understand even less, especially the ones that are suffering, are incarcerated, lost their family and jobs for simple possession charges a state over from one that is legal. 
Recently, a young man was arrested in Texas and  possibly sentenced from 5 years to life. ‘FOR Brownies.’  A substance never proven to kill anyone - could you imagine - IF the pharmaceutical companies were held accountable and charged with each death?  
Jail for BROWNIES!? 
When cousin Jim is baking and selling  legal brownies only a coupe of states over? 
What does U stand for in the U.S.A, Eh?

Before you tell someone to pack up their bags, understand what they are dealing with and why not help them explore other options and rights. Get media attention  and community support (if time allows) IF parents must leave, have family and friends fight to bring them home and EDUCATE others on Cannabis! If you really want to help.

I was asked ‘why touch so much on American topics?’ 
What topics are strictly American? 
What are strictly any countries? 
Not Cannabis,  it is a world wide problem and I focus on ONE love.
xox <>< 

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

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

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

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 <><

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 <><

I am currently reading :  High Society By Mike Jay
http://www.amazon.com/High-Society-Central-Mind-Altering-History/dp/1594773939
And immensely enjoying it.  I love to read always have - not always an easy task lately with my twitch being what it is it can make reading difficult even distracting - so whatever I read has to be interesting to keep me  riding out twitches between paragraphs. This book is so interesting.

 Educating. The more I know the more confused I am. 

Since the beginning of time people want to get high, or achieve some sort of mental stimulation that heightens experiences or makes us feel at peace.  Every time prohibition of some sort steps in  - people move on, usually to a stronger substance and a new drug problem arises.  What amazes me is Cannabis has always been one of the safest, oldest and most widely used  substance on the planet and the fact that it is still illegal,  IMO is just another distraction.  Much like television.

Focus on the plant that people want, grow and use  most commonly: 
Government + control + prohibition(lies) = jail = $$$$$$$

To read the US government has taken out all kinds of patents on Cannabis - something they have claimed for years has no medicinal value, they have made millions suffer for it.  LIES. Google Patent of Cannabis or just the number  (for just one of the many patents now taken out BY the American Government on Cannabis. ONE NOW for the treatment of CANCER!! Using Cannabis : http://www.google.com/patents/US20130059018

I am angry as a Canadian, we have and continue to suffer because of their lies also, as does the rest of the world. No wonder people are upset.

BUT WHY?? I keep asking myself,  WHY is it still happening?? 
Because WE LET IT!  We are letting lives be ruined and people suffer over a plant.
 IT is not the Plant. It is the PEOPLE.

People who have problems with addiction. 
People who do not understand the concept of ‘moderation’.
People who are hurt, lonely abused and use drugs as an escape. 
(Much like the Rats at rat park! Mentioned in the book)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rat_Park

People who want power and money and use lies to get it.
People. People. People. WE are the problem NEVER the plants.
Clearly PROHIBITION DOES not work. 

Educate the PEOPLE. ONE LOVE. We need to help each other and stand up for what we believe in.  We are not criminals. Just people. 

 As expected all thought out the book, what has been the biggest problem all thought out history and still is today?  
ALCOHOL.  < But that $$ money maker isn’t going anywhere is it.

There are far more serious drugs available and widely used and there are even more on the horizon - it’s what PEOPLE do. 
Stop the lies, prohibition and educate children on choices and consequences,
SHARE your knowledge. If they don’t believe you - tell them to prove you wrong!
To date - no one has.  

The first prohibition...
God saying “Don’t eat off the tree of knowledge.”
 How well did that work?

xox <>< 

Today's hero is Miguel.  We are friends on FB and I have come across the 'Weed Blog' once in a while and enjoy reading. 
I do let people use my cartoons for newsletters, web pages, etc and feel grateful that they feel my cartoons compliment their words.  The above toon was in the following blog: 
xox G


My name is Miguel. I figured I should introduce myself as an adult that shouldn’t need to be in hiding since I am not a criminal. 

Now that two states have “legalized” marijuana, I feel no safer today than I did before (even though I live in one of those states). I do feel rest assured that my peers here are tolerant of a certain lifestyle choice. I feel no safer since I could still be a victim of circumstance just like what happened to me in Wyoming.

Whenever I advocate for marijuana rights, I hate being considered an activist; to me it’s just plain common sense. When one inquires about the many travesties in life, alcohol can be found to be part the root cause, and that’s legal!

Instead of an activist, I would like to consider myself more of a realist. We are not going to feed all the starving, nor fix any other fu**ed up scenario that is a cause, but we can end a failed drug war that has real casualties and implications on millions of American lives. As a realist, I believe we won’t end racism, but we can sure dull its sharp sting by eradicating laws based off of racial propaganda that now affects all. I am not an activist; I’m a father, a husband, and son – A friend, a neighbor, a co-worker, an object of affection, a god damn fu**ing American citizen.

As an American, it’s a shame that we have to fear our fellow countrymen; this can be undercover cops and/or bitter douche bags with vendettas. Not everyone is against marijuana; as a matter of fact, you can’t judge a book by its cover. Marijuana crosses all boundaries; race, economic, and health condition – marijuana is medicine, it doesn’t just help fight major disease but also tummy aches and insomnia, different strains for different folks.

I don’t promote smoking and driving (which was what happened in my case), but I do promote cannabis and all I’m saying is there is a potential for somebody to get stopped for bogus reasons, and if said person happens to have a stinking pound in their trunk than there is probable cause. It’s unfortunate that hard drugs don’t emit the order pot does, that law enforcement officials feel they are doing the community a service by arresting cannabis users.

We’ve come along so far in my lifetime; more than I thought was even imaginable due to my distrust and lack of faith in the system, but medical marijuana has turned that around. Some activists want to polarize the issue by rejecting medical marijuana, but the truth is medical marijuana has created the conversation along with providing statistical support that the zombie apocalypse does not occur due to safe legal access to marijuana, it’s as simple as that.

I started writing this with one thing in mind “What is the cause or movement?”- We each have our own term. Isn’t it the same one that’s been going on for years since the 60′s? It just seems disconnected to me these days. Early on it was the likes of Keith Stroup, Tom Forcade, Steve Hager, and Jack Herer that started the question “Why is marijuana illegal?” They are the original voices for the legalization of marijuana, but legalizing marijuana means more than smoking a joint and buying Cheetos. Its freedom vs. incarceration, its grants and scholarships vs. ineligible, its innocent vs. not guilty, crime vs. a night cap, the war on drugs has done more harm than good.

The legalization of marijuana is choosing nature while still agreeing with science, morality, and capitalism. It’s the integration of the free market with democracy, if done right. How many things in life that you know of that marijuana is the root cause of destruction? Accidents and bad nightlife choices are mostly alcohol induce (not saying stoners don’t do stupid shit) but statistically marijuana isn’t that bad and once legalized and legitimized, it might not even be a concern. When there’s no temptation, generally there’s no abuse that’s why Germany has a lower alcoholism rate and Amsterdam a lower drug use rate.

Early in our American history during the civil rights era, many groups popped up supporting the individuals being wronged with legal and financial support, the only thing I see going on these days in support of marijuana front-line soldiers are law suits. I saw such a thing here in Washington when the City of Kent voted on a moratorium, Steve Sarich served the council papers stating the council was going against the will of Washington State voters. Now this is all well and good but to me this didn’t help the dispensary owners at the time.

Dispensary owners aren’t the only ones fighting alone. On my travels I met the owner of a head shop known as The Grateful Shed in Bozeman, Mt. When Montana first embarked on their medical journey the feds were hot to imprison and close all that they could. The Grateful Shed was raided for having marijuana posters in their back room. Let me say that again The Grateful Shed was raided for having marijuana posters in their back room. After a long and expensive trial The Grateful Shed proved to be justified and set different precedents in support of marijuana, they are still recovering from these expenses.

Now I’m not asking for us to subsidize people’s lives as they battle the legal system but you would think an organization based off of lawyers could provide free legal aid to the likes of The Grateful Shed, NJ Weedman, Joe Grumbine, Chris Wiliams, Eddy Lepp, Marc Emery and RandyLeibenguth. Instead we support them with well wishes and lawsuits that do not support the individual. I think this is where things can change. I’m grateful for new organizations like SSDP and MMP but in the long run the farmers and wanna-be store front operators are being buried under legal mumbo jumbo.

I spoke to Joe Grumbine before he went to prison and he agrees with me that the revolution has been commercialized and broken. That’s why he started The Human Solution. The Human Solution tries to help spread the word on jury nullification and tries to garner local court support for individuals facing trial. This isn’t a complete solution, but it does more for the individual than suing any institution.

People are standing up for marijuana for their own self-interest which is fine, but if you make a profit off of this beautiful plant try and give a little back to those that brought it to you. People who never consider fighting for marijuana education have learned the hard way that it is medicine or that any criminal implication from this plant is not justice. I got excited when I-502 passed, merely for what it means about my state: That the moral majority have some sort of common sense in this perverse world where fucked up shit happens every day the re-legalization of marijuana and the lie it represents does more harm than good.

When the law passed my wife got mad at me because I started investigating on how I could get involved with the new marijuana industry. Looking into how I could make an honest living off of something I truly care and respect. I can’t blame her for getting upset; I have an obsession with marijuana. If weed were legal this obsession probably would never exist for there would be no mass injustice.

Even though two states have legalized marijuana we have so much more work to do and ignorance to face. Personally I’m tired of being one of the usual suspects because I’m a dark brown smoker. I am not a criminal, I’m a father, a friend, a neighbor, an occasional writer, a daydreamer, that guy that lets you get into the lane when you’re driving – I’m everything else but the bad guy criminal. The guys here have given me an outlet that has turned into a support group for marijuana reform, we are the people.

I encourage every single one of you to write one letter to our prisoners of war, to donate a dollar to awareness groups like NORML, SSDP, MMP or even donate to a project like Gone To Pot The Movie or any other any other pro-marijuana Kickstarter project. Marijuana is still illegal in 48 states where 2 grams might as well be 2 lbs, a marijuana conviction can still alter your lively hood and any other future prospects – this shit needs to end.

There are bits and pieces of enlightenment after the two states legalized it; when Randy Leibenguth went in for his trial he was not imprisoned like Chris Williams. Instead I was fortunate enough to talk to him after his trial and he had this to say “the judge even said he was disturbed with the difference between state and federal and it was hard for him to actually put any of us in jail due to the changing times. He said he did not want to regret putting people in jail for something that 4 to 5 years down the road maybe something that is accepted normally” Now judges are realizing incarcerating people for a plant is ridiculous.

Marijuana is medicine, natural medicine for adults and children; there are people with money interest that don’t want you to treat yourself, to be thy own physician. Marijuana is medicine just like the pills big pharma sells, how does marijuana differ? It doesn’t, simply put the fat cats of pharma and alcohol are afraid of competition. Marijuana extracts are good for treatments; they just don’t want you to try and get to know yourself better. Better yet a chance to help yourself, help your family, help your children.

Even if you don’t want to believe thatmarijuana fights cancer, if there was a chance why not listen to those that say their life has improved because of it, its only humane. If you ever lost a loved one from cancer you would know that you would try anything just for 5 more minutes with them, one more hug, one more anything to do with them. I wonder if my dad’s end would’ve been better off if I was able to get him a joint. Cancer kills, not marijuana.

My present existence is based off of the essence of what is wrong with America, corporate cuts and lies, if I wasn’t doing it there’d be someone else. Socio-pshychopath that’s how I pay my bills and I’m not the only one. As a technician everything takes a certain amount of time, you can’t squeeze blood out of a turnip but that’s what I do, make money for “sober” people. We cut corners in quality to make money for our corporate masters and that’s why I was against 502, I didn’t want quality and Monsanto to take over my weed but I hope somehow to get involved with the new upcoming situation.

Maybe I am a hopeless hippie romantic but I do believe in the power of the plant over almost a hundred years of man made lies but we need to stop dissenting and hating upon one another. We all need to agree that cannabis is medicine but it’s also recreational the whole thing is a conundrum but truth non-the-less. We are now in an era where cannabis is the responsible choice over booze but as humans we choose to have our escapes. It’s human nature to want to be on another level.

Donate, debate, educate, doing what you can makes you an activist. I don’t want to live in a world where gardeners and shop keepers are treated like pedophiles, rapist, murderers or any other piece of shit in society. When good men and women serve longer sentences (when they shouldn’t be serving at all) than people that have kidnapped and violated others. In our society and country there should be a pecking order of wrongs and rights and marijuana isn’t even in the same category as wrong. We are not criminals, we are patients, we are adults that choose a night smoke as a night cap, we are people who no longer believe in the man behind the curtain.
Miguel

 I  have my own blog http://brothercanyouspareadimebag.blogspot.com/, where I put down some of my writings and odd ball shit I find on the internet. 
One love.Miggy420 

I want to celebrate an 'EVERYDAY HERO!'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For everyone that embraces this plant - has educated themselves on this plant and all it's GOODness - medicinal, Hemp, Oil, Food, building material and MORE- That continue to fight for this plant and our rights as humans - It's time for a group hug! I know how frustrating it can be, feeling like your banging your head against a brick wall, wondering is anyone listening???
So today I thought,  let's take time for a group hug! Support each other, encourage and just celebrate the Plant! Thank each other!  I feel it in the air change is around the corner!!
But for just today- Enjoy Cannabis and all it does and for all of us, millions around the world.
NOW that is a GROUP HUG!!   
 xox <><

 I need time out. Time to stop stressing and focus on what I love to do. Draw. Spend time with my family, read, & relax.  DRAW. 
It is at the point where my twitch has taken over.  Even with botox it never stops. As the botox wears off it gets more painful and stronger. It can stop me from doing what ever I am doing and holding my breath until it passes.  It is mentally and socially distracting and uncomfortable, for me and who ever is watching.  I have become somewhat of a recluse.  It gets stronger I get quieter.  Drawing is the only thing I seem to be able to do sometimes, because I have different stages of drawing depending on how I'm feeling.  

We are talking about surgery. That will be my next decision. One I am not taking lightly.
Not being a fan of hospitals or surgery anywhere in the vicinity of my brain is frightening. 
Time to take drastic measures. - I have decided to seriously try to DE-STRESS. I will focus on the positive, drawing, planting the seed and being thankful that I am still alive - it's been a difficult 3 years and I have to say am a better person because of it.  Yesterday after making the decision to stay off FB, I instantly felt a sense of relief.  I went and drew, watched an amazing Doc. that affirmed my decision! Who knew! Great documentary
 *I AM    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpVEH-Bpdes&feature=player_embedded
I told Norm I am on withdraw-lllll  meaning I must draw.  As much fun as all of this technology can be- it is truly a weapon of mass distraction. I think - 'I'll just go on for a few moments' and hours fly by, hours that I could be enjoying nature, family, pets and spending time truly enjoying my passion. That is how I will heal. I will of course continue to educate myself on topics that are important to me and try to share as best as I know how...
I Am most inspired by nature. Mother nature... as I see her :

When I was drawing this toon I was going to compare the USA and Canada and a few other places especially the weight issues; Obesity is such a killer and our poor kids have no hope with fast food places springing up like  - FAST food places! While researching W.H.O "Obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, with at least 2.8 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese. Once associated with high-income countries, obesity is now also prevalent in low- and middle-income countries." 
 I also believed that Canada would be second behind the USA with the obesity
 - Sorry Canada... my bad! We are actually 11th. 'Whew!' 
The issue - who is the fattest- is NOT the issue. 
These things are killing us and yes they are all legal.. and we just keep buying into it.
So WHY do we do it? It's the normal way of life. Where can you go and not be tempted by any of the 3 or have them in your face all the time. Storm and I have had several conversation about fast food lately. I've not been feeling great and cooking not my favorite past time as it is but - every time I eat fast food lately (with the exception of Burger priest or Swiss Chalet ) I'm talking McD's or KFC> I feel sick.  So why - EASE and like the millions of you I was raised with this.  IT IS LACK of Education. 
TEACH your kids - if you do this now then chances are  they might just want to be the incredible beings they are meant to be!! BE honest!! SHOW them the facts. Teach by example. I read some kids only ever get French Fries as their vegetable. 
All things in life should be sampled if you are fortunate enough - but "super-size that and add gravy!" has to stop. 
I wrote 'in the USA' because those are the facts. Mexico a close second.. If Canada was the fattest it would say it in this cartoon.  Perhaps I should have said in the world but that is not true- too many people in the world have everything BUT Obesity to die from.

My wish for today is someone sees this cartoon and RE-thinks the next time they eat out, 
pours another or buys another pack of smokes. EVEN that tiny thought can be a start.

Time to break away from the "sheeple"  and do what is right.  Look after each other.
How about spending a little less money on sending people to prison and spending on educating our children - properly - truthfully on HEALTH. KARMA and compassion.
xox <>< 

Had to add this.. 
THIS IS GROSS. 
On several levels. Pollution, death, lung cancer.
When walking my dogs the other day on the edge of the Walmart parking lot this is what you see the entire path. 
THIS should be illegal.  
This was just a tiny bit of the way. 
IT IS like that the entire distance.
Disgusting. 

I Love Daisy's!  I'll give you a daisy a day dear... (remember that song?)  Even our dog is named Daisy and she is as pretty as a Daisy - HAPPY!  A Daisy is a happy Flower! Tall and strong - who has not =  "she loves me... she loves me not..."  with a Daisy at some point in their life?  So my bouquet of PEACE would definitely be Daisy's!  
We can't go wrong if we plant these seeds! LOVE, HOPE and COMPASSION. 
You can not help but grow GOODNESS when you plant such ideas in the minds and hearts of those you interact with.
So never mind Cannabis today (We'll be right back on track with that Monday morning!)
Plant some LOVIN'  NOW!  If only in your own mind and heart - it's a start!!!
xox <><

I read this somewhere and it made me giggle. Some drawings are just too easy to visualize. I love cows!  I first would like to offer great thanks and appreciation to this genius!  
Gary Larson   http://www.thefarside.com/  
 who has inspired me and made me laugh so many times over the years - but most important he first showed me cows standing and talking!  FREEDOM!!!  Of the mind...A cartoonist can make anything happen! Any artist can believe  what they can paint.You just have to believe,  & have LOTS of fun! ;-)  Made me giggle!  FEEL free to insert your politician of choice in the podium sign..   sadly, I bet there are a few candidates - who make us feel this way! I know one for sure!! ;-) xox <><