This Puzzled Life

darnold1975

I Stand Up Because Too Many Still Can’t

“I don’t raise my voice because I’m angry. I raise it because whispering never changed a damn thing except how fast people ignore you.”

-This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Let it crackle like it knows the truth is about to get told. Let the smoke rise slowly and dramatic, the way my ancestors intended. Curling through the room like it’s searching for the lies we’re about to burn out. This is the moment where the air shifts, the spirits lean in, and even the cats pause mid‑chaos because they know Mama’s about to say something real. This is my “brace yourself, I’m done being polite” announcement to the universe. It’s the Southern version of rolling up your sleeves. Except with more sage, more attitude, and a whole lot more intention. When that charcoal glows, so do I. And whatever truth I’ve been holding in my chest finally gets permission to walk out the front door like it pays rent.

I write the way I live. Loud enough to be heard, honest enough to be felt, and Southern enough to confuse anyone who’s never survived a family reunion with both potato‑salad politics and generational trauma. I stand up and speak out because silence never saved me. And it sure as hell never protected the people I love. So, if you’re here for polite whispers, bless your heart. But if you’re here for truth with humor, grit, and a little Holy‑Ghost side‑eye, pull up a chair. You’re in the right place.

I’ve been asked many times, “Why Do I Stand Up And Speak Out?” And here’s my explanation. There’s a moment in every Southern woman’s life when she realizes she has two choices:

  1. Sit quietly and let the world run wild with foolishness.
  2. Or stand up, speak out, and let the church fans flutter in shock.

I chose the second one. Mainly because the first option has never worked for me a day in my life. I didn’t grow up planning to be “the outspoken one.” I was raised in the Deep South, where you’re expected to smile politely, keep your voice at a respectable whisper, and only speak your truth if it fits neatly between a cobbler and a prayer request. But life has a way of handing you a microphone when you least expect it. It’s usually right after you’ve sworn you’re done talking. So, here’s the truth I carry deep in my bones. I was that child who screamed in silence that no one heard.

And now? I stand up for those who don’t have the power to stand up. Or who have been intimidated into swallowing their truths whole. I will absolutely be a voice for Immigrants, LGBTQIA+ (my home group), Native Americans, Canada, Venezuela, Mexico, Greenland, Venezuelan fishermen, Gazans, the homeless, the victimized, Black and Brown communities, and anyone who needs support through solidarity. I can’t get away from this calling because I will always stand up against tyranny, crimes against children, religious scapegoating, hypocrisy, racism, and oppression. And especially here in the South, where silence is expected and resistance is treated like a character flaw.

But I am not built for quiet compliance. I have never been. I speak out because silence never saved me. Silence never protected me or my kids. Silence never made the world kinder. Silence protected the perpetrators with fragile egos and made the wrong people louder. And Lord knows the wrong people do not need a volume boost. Their voice is almost as big as their unfinished golden ballroom. Their headquarters are located at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

I stand up because I’ve lived through enough chaos to qualify for a punch card. After your tenth traumatic event, you should legally get a free smoothie or something. But instead, I got a voice. And the realization that if I don’t use it, someone else will use theirs to rewrite my story in a way that makes them comfortable. Absolutely not.

I was forced as a child to watch adults do absolutely nothing about the abuse they knew was happening. They didn’t want to “rock the boat.” They didn’t want to challenge the system. They didn’t want to stand up for what was right. They stood up for what was popular. What was convenient. And what kept the illusion intact. And while they protected their comfort, I was left to protect myself.

As a child, my only way to survive was by fighting back. Not just against the adults who caused the harm. But also, against the complicit bystanders who saw everything and chose silence. That kind of abandonment teaches you something. And it is this, “if you don’t stand up for yourself, no one else will.” And that lesson, painful as it was, is exactly why I refuse to be quiet now.

But here’s the part they never planned for. I didn’t stay small. It took years and years to claw my way back to myself. To unlearn the lies. To rebuild a voice that had been broken, bent, and boxed in. To stand in my own truth without shaking. To speak without apologizing. To breathe without asking permission.

For years, my voice wasn’t quiet. It was taken. Stolen by abuse. Smothered by “be nice” expectations. Buried under the weight of family roles I never agreed to play. And when I finally stumbled into adulthood, those lessons didn’t magically disappear. They clung to me like wet clothes, heavy and suffocating, convincing me that silence was survival and shrinking was safety.

I speak out because my kids are watching. I speak out because my community deserves better. I speak out because our nation can do better. I speak out because my cats already assume I run the world, and honestly, who am I to disappoint them. But mostly, I speak out because my voice is not a liability. It’s a legacy. A tool. A torch. A refusal to let the world slide backward while I sit politely on the porch pretending not to notice. I speak out because I know what it feels like to be unheard. And I refuse to let anyone else sit in that silence alone.

So let the world adjust its volume, because I’m done shrinking to fit inside anyone’s comfort zone. I was born with a backbone. I earned this voice. And I’m using it whether the room is ready or not. If standing up makes some folks uncomfortable, they can go ahead and shift in their seats. I’m not sitting back down. This is my line in the sand, my truth on full display, and my promise carved in stone. I will not be silent, I will not be small, and I will not stop.

I have learned the beauty and the necessity of boundaries. I am absolutely, unequivocally, and in no universe responsible for anyone else’s feelings about my truth, my choices, or my existence. I was raised to believe that people‑pleasing was practically a family requirement. And that we should disguise what was really going on for fear someone might realize our family wasn’t the picture‑perfect postcard we pretended to be. But those lessons didn’t protect me. They imprisoned me. And to feel strong enough, grounded enough, and whole enough to speak my truth after being silenced for so long is a miracle in itself.

But once I broke free from the expectations, the abuse, and the boundary‑less people who benefitted from my quiet suffering, something in me locked into place. I will never be silenced again. Not for family. Not for comfort. Not for tradition. Not for anyone. I earned this voice. I fought for this voice. And now that I have it back, I’m using it. Loudly, clearly, and without hesitation. Thanks for reading! And stand up.

Affirmation: My voice is not too much. It is exactly enough and it was built to be heard.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

 #ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Platinum Kush Breath Strain Review

“Smoke signals from a modern mind.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Platinum Kush Breath.

Platinum Kush Breath is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid strain. It is a cross between OG Kush x Afghani. OG Kush is a cross between Chemdawg x Lemon Thai x Hindu Kush. Afghani is a pure indica landrace strain found in the Hindu Kush mountains of Afghanistan. I wasn’t able to determine a definitive flavor. But it’s reported flavors of berry, fruity, peppery, spicy, and sweet.

Dominant terpenes are Caryophyllene, Limonene and Linalool. Patients report  relief from depression, headaches, migraines, chronic pain, inflammation, cramps, or muscle spasms. Even though this strain’s potency doesn’t hit hard to begin with, it acts very much like a creeper strain. The indica effects were slow but powerful once they settled in. I would say that this strain needs to be used in moderation. Because if your not careful “couch lock” might be upon you. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I am worthy of health and happiness, and I choose to relax my mind and body.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Ridiculous Quotes Made By Donald Trump Pt. 2

“You ever have second thoughts about something?”

-Donald Trump

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Ok, let’s continue.

1.        “The Biden administration had spent $8 million dollars to make mice transgender.”

What he was actually referring to is the term “transgenic mice.” This is a process where scientists add human cells to mice to enable them to more accurately study the effect of disease on human tissues. Not changing the gender.

https://www.wcpo.com/transgender-mice-fact-check-trump-2025#:~:text=%22Just%20listen%20to%20some%20of,and%20gender%20influences%20in%20asthma%22

2.        “Show me someone with no ego and I’ll show you a big loser.”-Trump: How To Get Rich, 2004 

I think most of the American people can agree that your ego, in conjunction with dementia, narcissistic personality disorder, and the emotional maturity of a toaster, is all the proof that we need to see what the definition of a “big loser” means.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2024/02/01/quiz-the-apprentice-bbc-donald-trump/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CShow%20me%20someone%20with%20no,show%20you%20a%20big%20loser.%22

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

 

3.        “She does have a very nice figure…If Ivanka weren’t my daughter, perhaps I would be dating her.” -The View, 2006 

That’s a heck of a thing to say about your daughter, Donald. But I’m sure Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislane Maxwell could verify whether or not you had sexual relations by girls. “Some on the younger side.”

https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/wild-donald-trump-quotes/#:~:text=On%20Ivanka,Joel%20Page/Reuters

 https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

4.        “I don’t know if you saw. Little things such as the cost of eggs-little to you, but big to the people out there. Down almost 30%, in the last, eh, few days.” Press conference March 2025.

Actually, prices of everything has continued to rise.

https://m.economictimes.com/magazines/panache/donald-trumps-shocking-comment-on-egg-prices-sparks-internet-outrage-is-it-just-a-little-thing/articleshow/119266681.cms#:~:text=Trump’s%20Egg%2Dciting%20Declaration%E2%80%94Fact,US%2C%20even%20more%20than%20drugs

5.        “I look at some of these agreements and I say, who would ever sign a thing like this. The tariffs will go forward, yes. We’ll make up a lot of territory. Our country will be liquid and rich again.”

Trump himself signed “those things.” Trump said this in reference to trade deals, specifically those with Mexico and Canada (NAFTA).

https://ustr.gov/trade-agreements/free-trade-agreements/united-states-mexico-canada-agreement#:~:text=The%20United%20States%2DMexico%2DCanada%20Agreement%20(USMCA)%20entered,farmers%2C%20ranchers%2C%20and%20businesses.

6.        “These things don’t work, I’ve had them many times, and on occasion, they break, they explode. If something’s hot, they don’t last very long, like a matter of minutes, sometimes a matter of seconds. It’s a ridiculous situation.”

Referring to the dangers of plastic straws. I have used many of this same product. And not one time have they ever exploded.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/10/trump-plastic-straws-executive-order

7.        “They are dangerous. You see what’s happening up in the Massachusetts area with the whales…The windmills are driving the whales crazy, obviously.”

Wow, Donald! When did you finish school with a degree in Whale Psychology and Abnormal Behavior?

https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/2025/01/09/trump-wind-energy-whale-deaths-ma-offshore-fact-check/77551616007/

8.        “I never understood wind. You know, I know windmills very much. They’re noisy. They kill the birds. You want to see a bird graveyard? And they say the noise causes cancer.”

I will put going to see a bird graveyard on my bucket list. About the only place you would see this describe scenario is if an entire flock of birds flew into a shredder and they were then called “Shredded Tweet.”

https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/03/politics/trumps-war-on-windmills-now-includes-wild-cancer-claim#:~:text=Over%20the%20weekend%2C%20Donald%20Trump,making%20earlier%20in%20the%20year.

9.        “The kidney has a very special place…in the heart.” 

Holy Hell. Donald has no idea where his organs are located. Ok. Maybe he knows where one of his organs is located.

https://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-signing-executive-order-advancing-american-kidney-health/

10.   “And then I see the disinfectant, where it knocks it out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning.”

Trump wondered aloud if injecting disinfectants could be a way to stop Covid. I can tell you that it would be the last time you would ever need to inject bleach.

11.   “They start forming off the coast of Africa, as they’re moving across the Atlantic, we drop a bomb inside the eye of the hurricane, and it disrupts it. Why can’t we do that?”

“Put the nuclear codes down and step away from your position of power!”

https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/26/politics/donald-trump-nuclear-bombs-hurricanes

There is one final blog that is left in this series. If you aren’t paying attention to current politics, you need to. And I’m not talking about immersing yourself in FOXNEWS. Look at more than one source and educate yourself about the horrors that are going on within our country. We are in unprecedented times that I never thought that I would witness. And our very precious and admirable democracy is at stake.

Affirmation: I resolve to seek validation from myself and like-minded individuals, not from those who have harmed me.

***Don’t forget to watch the video***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

The Cats Have Beads And I Have Regrets

“Cats at Mardi Gras don’t follow the parade. They become the parade, by collecting beads, chaos, and admirers with every classy decision.”                                                                       

-Unknown                              

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. I should probably sage my area twice after the way my cats acted at Mardi Gras. So, that means we are unleashing the FULL‑POWER, CATEGORY 5, LOUISIANA‑CERTIFIED, CAT‑LED MARDI GRAS CHAOS. Buckle up. The beads are flying.

Piper woke up at 4:12 AM, standing on my chest like a possessed raccoon.

Piper: “Get up. We have a city to embarrass.”

She had already packed, in her bag, a chicken nugget she found under the couch, a Mardi Gras mask she stole from your closet, and a crumpled receipt she insists is “legal documentation.” Coco walked in wearing a robe like a Real Housewife of the Deep South. Tinkerbell entered last, dragging a rosary and a Ziploc of Goldfish crackers.

Coco: “I expect VIP treatment. And a float. And a man named Boudreaux.”

Tinkerbell: “I’m not saying I’m worried. I’m saying I’ve updated my will.”

Piper pressed every button in the car like she was trying to hack the Pentagon.

Piper: “WHAT DOES THIS DO? OH LOOK! THE CAR IS SCREAMING. WE’RE FAMOUS!”

Coco rolled down the window and let the wind hit her like she was filming a shampoo commercial.

Coco: “If anyone asks, I’m a celebrity. You’re my assistant.”

Tinkerbell buckled herself in and whispered,” Jesus take the wheel. Literally.”
And the moment the door opened, Piper shot out like a bottle rocket dipped in espresso. Coco strutted behind her, tail high, sunglasses on, giving the city her best “you’re welcome.”

Piper: “THE AIR SMELLS LIKE SPICE AND POOR DECISIONS. I BELONG HERE.”
Coco: “Someone bring me a hurricane. And a man with a boat.”

Tinkerbell approached a street musician and sat politely.

Tinkerbell: “Play something soothing, baby. My nerves are fried.”

Within minutes, the cats were ON a float. Not allowed. Not invited. Just… on it. Piper was leading chants like she was running for governor. And she also tried to flash her nonexistent cat boobs for beads, and now she’s beefing with the New Orleans Police Department.

Piper: “THROW ME BEADS OR I’LL STEAL YOUR SNACKS!”

It started innocently enough. Piper saw a woman flash her chest and receive 14 strands of beads and a standing ovation. Piper, never one to be outdone, climbed onto a balcony, puffed out her fur, and screamed:

Piper: “PREPARE YOUR BEADS, MORTALS. I’M ABOUT TO MAKE HISTORY.”

She then attempted to “flash” by dramatically lifting her front paws and turning in a circle like a confused rotisserie chicken. Unfortunately, a nearby cop did not find this performance amusing.

Officer (into walkie): “We’ve got a situation. It’s… a cat. Attempting nudity.”

Piper was issued a verbal warning and told to “keep it classy.” She was so salty about the whole thing that she spent the rest of the parade refusing to wave, refusing to smile, and refusing to acknowledge the crowd.

Piper (arms crossed, tail twitching): “I COULD’VE BEEN LEGENDARY. BUT NOOOO. APPARENTLY ‘FUR CLEAVAGE’ ISN’T A THING.”

She sat on the float like a disgraced pageant queen, wearing 3 pity beads and a look that could curdle milk. Coco tried to cheer her up by tossing beads and blowing kisses.

Coco: “Smile, darling. You’re still famous. Just… not in a legal way.”

Tinkerbell handed her a beignet and whispered

Tinkerbell: “Eat this and let it go. You’re not the first woman to get rejected by Bourbon Street.”

Coco was posing dramatically, letting the wind hit her like she was starring in a perfume ad called “Regret.”

Coco: “Take my picture. No, not that angle. I said my GOOD side.”

Tinkerbell was giving life advice to drunk tourists.

Tinkerbell: “Hydrate, sweetheart. And don’t date a man who says he ‘used to be a promoter.’”

At Café du Monde, Piper inhaled a beignet so fast she briefly left her physical body. And she was covered in powdered sugar.

Piper: “I HAVE SEEN THE DIVINE. IT TASTES LIKE FRIED HEAVEN.”

Coco refused hers because “powdered sugar is not couture.” Tinkerbell ate hers slowly, like a woman who has lived through 14 Mardi Gras and knows the consequences.

By the end of the night, the cats returned to the car wearing 112 strands of beads, a feathered mask, a tiny crown, a sticker that said “I danced with Big Tony”, and the faint aroma of bourbon and regret.

Piper: “I want to move here permanently.”

Coco: “I’m starting a jazz band called The Purrcussionists.”

Tinkerbell: “I stole a praline. Drive.”

And so, as the sun dipped behind the wrought iron balconies and the last bead hit the pavement with a dramatic plonk, the cats returned home from Mardi Gras bedazzled, beigneted, and emotionally unstable.

Piper, still fuming from her failed flashing attempt, refused to make eye contact with anyone and spent the ride home muttering, “I could’ve been iconic.” Coco, who had somehow acquired a saxophone and three phone numbers, declared herself “spiritually Cajun now.” And Tinkerbell, wise and weary, curled up in a pile of stolen doubloons and whispered, “Never trust a man in a feathered vest.”

I drove in silence, covered in powdered sugar and regret, wondering how you became the designated adult in a Mardi Gras saga starring three cats and one frog costume. May your beads be untangled, your beignets be warm, and your cats never again attempt public nudity for plastic jewelry. Thanks for reading! Keep smilin.’

Affirmation: I am a majestic Mardi Gras creature. I attract beads, snacks, and admiration effortlessly. My fur is flawless, my paws are powerful, and my ability to cause chaos is a spiritual gift.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

Mardi Gras: The Only Holiday Where Glitter Becomes a Personality Trait

“Mardi Gras: the only time of year when getting hit in the face with a flying Moon Pie is considered a blessing.”

-Unknown

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Because Mardi Gras is here, and if you’re not ready, it will eat you alive and spit you out covered in beads, powdered sugar, and regret. If we’re going to talk about Mardi Gras, we need spiritual protection, electrolytes, and possibly a lawyer. This is the only holiday where you can see a man in a feathered cape riding a ladder, a toddler holding a string of beads longer than their body, and a grandma yelling “THROW ME SOMETHIN,’ MISTA!” like she’s summoning a demon. And somehow it’s all completely normal.

“Laissez les bons temps rouler.” Translates to “Let the good times roll and let your dignity roll away with them.” Mardi Gras started thousands of years ago as a celebration of spring, fertility, and “we survived winter, let’s party.” It traveled through Europe, hit France, and eventually landed in Louisiana where New Orleans said: “Cute idea. Let’s crank it up to 11.” And then, Mardi Gras became the only event where grown adults fight over plastic beads like they’re Olympic medals.

Mardi Gras parades are run by krewes, which are basically

  • Social clubs
  • Party planners
  • Costume designers
  • People who take themes way too seriously

Each krewe has a King, a Queen, and at least one person who spent $600 on a cape they’ll wear once. Their job? Throw things at you from a moving vehicle. Your job? Catch them without getting hit in the face. Teamwork.

King Cake is a cinnamon‑swirled, icing‑covered, purple‑green‑and‑gold masterpiece that contains a tiny plastic baby. If you get the baby, you buy the next cake. If you swallow the baby, you now have a story for the ER. It’s festive. It’s delicious. It’s mildly dangerous. Just like Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras is:

  • Brass bands so loud your ancestors feel it.
  • Costumes that look like a craft store exploded.
  • Glitter in places glitter should never be.
  • People dancing like they’re being electrocuted by joy.
  • A man dressed as a banana arguing with a woman dressed as a pirate.

It’s beautiful. It’s chaotic. It’s spiritual. Purple = Justice Green = Faith Gold = Power Also, they look great on literally everyone, including dogs, babies, and confused tourists.

 Mardi Gras Survival Tips:

  • Hydrate like you’re preparing for battle.
  • Never trust a bead thrown with too much enthusiasm.
  • If someone hands you a Moon Pie, accept it. It’s a blessing.
  • Don’t bend down to pick up beads unless you want to get trampled by a grandma with lightning‑fast reflexes.
  • Glitter is forever. Accept your fate.

Mardi Gras is loud, messy, joyful, historic, spiritual, and slightly dangerous. Which is exactly why it’s perfect. It’s a reminder that life is meant to be lived boldly, colorfully, and with at least one slice of King Cake. Go ahead and dance, laugh and catch beads like your life depends on it. And let the good times roll preferably without rolling yourself into a ditch. Thanks for reading! And party on!

Affirmation: I allow joy, glitter, and powdered sugar to guide my path.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Piper’s First Valentine’s Day

“This is definitely an ‘I’ll let you take up the whole bed’ kind of love.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Before we dive into this Valentine’s Day conversation between Piper, Coco, and Tinkerbell, you need to prepare yourself spiritually, emotionally, and possibly legally. This is not a drill. This is a three‑cat romantic holiday special, and none of them have the emotional maturity for it.

Piper is experiencing her very first Valentine’s Day and is convinced the heart‑shaped decorations are either edible, haunted, or both. Coco has already declared herself “too evolved” for holiday nonsense but will absolutely participate if snacks are involved. And Tinkerbell? She’s been practicing dramatic poses since sunrise and is one tail‑flick away from demanding a wind machine.

Take a deep breath, center your soul, and maybe grab a helmet. Because nothing says “Valentine’s Day” quite like three cats trying to understand love, treats, and why humans keep squealing at them. Welcome to the chaos.

The situation starts in the hallway. A pink paper heart lies on the floor. Piper is sniffing it like it might be a trap. Coco is perched on a shelf, judging everything. Tinkerbell is dramatically sprawled across a blanket like she’s posing for a romance novel cover.

Tinkerbell: “Ah yes… Valentine’s Day. A day of love, devotion, and dramatic poses. You’re welcome, everyone.”

Coco: “You’re not even posing. You’re just lying there like a furry croissant.”

Tinkerbell: “A romantic furry croissant.”

Piper: “Um… what exactly is Valentine’s Day? Mom keeps saying it’s my first one. Should I be nervous?”

Coco: “Only if you hate affection. Or treats. Or being told you’re adorable every five minutes.”

Piper: “Oh. So, a normal day?”

Tinkerbell: “Exactly, little one. Except today the humans get extra sentimental. They say things like “my sweet baby” and “my heart is full” while we’re just trying to nap.”

Piper: “So why is it special for me?”

Coco: “Because it’s your first Valentine’s Day in this family. Your first one where you’re safe, loved, and part of the chaos.”

Tinkerbell: “And because you’ve officially been promoted from “new cat” to “beloved gremlin.”

Piper: “Beloved gremlin?”

Coco: “It’s a compliment. Trust me.”

Piper: “So, Valentine’s Day means I’m really part of the pride now?”

Tinkerbell: “You’ve been part of us since the moment you tried to steal my blanket. Bold move. I respected it.”

Coco: “And when you knocked over Mom’s drink. Twice. That sealed the deal.”

Piper: “I didn’t mean to.”

Coco: “Exactly. That’s what made it adorable.”

Piper: “So, what do we do to celebrate?”

Tinkerbell: “We nap dramatically. We accept treats. We allow forehead kisses. We tolerate photos. We act like we invented love.”

Coco: “And we remind you that you are home. For good.”

Piper: “I like Valentine’s Day.”

Tinkerbell: “Then welcome to your first one, sweetheart. You’re loved. Deeply. Even when you chew things you shouldn’t.”

Tinkerbell: “Now then. Who wants to help me dramatically lounge on the Valentine’s blanket for photos?”

Coco: “Hard pass. Last year she made me wear a bow tie. I’m still recovering emotionally.”

Piper: “What’s a bow tie? Is it dangerous? Does it bite?”

Coco: “Only your dignity.”

Tinkerbell: “Relax, children. This year, I’m going for a “natural beauty” aesthetic. No costumes. Just vibes.”

Piper: “Oh! I can do vibes!”

Immediately knocks over a decorative heart

Coco: “And there it is. The Valentine’s chaos has begun.”

Tinkerbell: “Honestly? Iconic. Destructive. Poetic. Piper, you’re officially ready for your first Valentine’s Day.”

Piper: “Does that mean I get more treats?”

Coco: “Kid, it’s Valentine’s Day. You could sneeze and Mom would give you a treat.”

Tinkerbell: “Watch this.”

Slow blinks dramatically at and me and all three cats simultaneously receive treats.

Piper: “So this is love?”

Coco: “This is manipulation. But yes, also love.”

Tinkerbell: “Welcome to the family, sweetheart. Now let’s go knock over something else. For romance.”

By the end of the day, the house looked like Cupid had broken in, gotten confused, and left in a hurry. Piper was proudly carrying around a crumpled paper heart like she’d won a major award. Coco had retreated to her high shelf to judge everyone from above, as is tradition. And Tinkerbell? She was sprawled across the Valentine’s blanket like a dramatic Victorian hero who had fainted from too much affection. Truly, the vibes were immaculate.

And as the treats settled, the chaos calmed, and the humans finally stopped squealing about “cute little faces,” the cats came to a single, universal conclusion. Valentine’s Day is weird. But also kind of amazing. After all, any holiday that rewards them for simply existing is a holiday worth celebrating. So, here’s to Piper’s first Valentine’s Day. A day full of love, snacks, dramatic posing, and just enough mischief to keep the universe balanced. Thanks for reading!

Affirmation: You are loved like a warm lap on a rainy day.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

What Is Love?

“Love is not only something you feel, but it is something you do.”

-David Wilkerson

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, instead of politics, chaos, or the latest absurdity in the world, I want to talk about something that actually keeps us human: love.

Love is one of those words we throw around so casually that we forget how heavy it really is. It’s not just a feeling. It’s not just butterflies, or chemistry, or the way someone’s name lights up your phone. Love is a living thing and something that grows, shifts, bruises, heals, and transforms us whether we’re ready or not.

Real love isn’t possession. It isn’t control. It isn’t “you complete me,” because you should already be whole. Love is choosing someone again and again, not because you need them to fill a void, but because life feels richer with them in it. And let’s be clear: domestic violence is not love. It’s a cruel form of control, and it has no place in any relationship.

Love is honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s saying, “I’m hurt,” “I’m scared,” “I need you,” or “I’m sorry.” It’s vulnerability without the guarantee of being understood. It’s trusting someone with the parts of you that you usually keep locked away. What love is not is weaponizing someone’s insecurities against them.

If you have to shrink yourself to be loved, that’s not love. If you’re walking on eggshells, that’s not love. If you’re constantly trying to earn affection, approval, or basic respect, that’s not love. Love is the exhale after holding your breath too long. It’s the feeling of being seen without performing.

Love isn’t effortless. It’s effort that doesn’t feel like a burden. It’s the small things like remembering how they take their coffee, sending a text to check in, listening even when you’re tired, showing up when it matters. Love is maintenance, not magic.

The right love doesn’t keep you stagnant. It doesn’t clip your wings. It doesn’t fear your evolution. Love says, “Grow. Become. Expand. I’ll grow with you.” And sometimes love also says, “We’ve grown in different directions, and that’s okay.”

Some of the deepest love comes from friendships, family, pets, or even the relationship you build with yourself. Romantic love gets all the attention, but it’s not the only kind that saves us. Sometimes the most healing love is the one that teaches you how to treat yourself better.

Love is imperfect, and that’s what makes it real. It’s messy. It’s flawed. It’s human. It’s two people trying their best with the tools they have. It’s learning, unlearning, apologizing, forgiving, and trying again. It’s imperfect that people choosing to care anyway.

Love shows you who you are. It reflects your wounds, your strengths, your fears, your capacity for joy. The right love doesn’t fix you, but it inspires you to fix yourself. It challenges you to become the version of you that you’ve always been capable of being.

Love is many things, but above all, it’s this: Love is the courage to stay open in a world that constantly tries to harden you.

Affirmation: I am worthy of a love that feels like peace, not survival.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Red Velvet Strain Review

“Weed is good weed is fine, if you share yours, then I’ll share mine.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today I want to tell you about a strain that seems to go perfectly in the month of love. It’s name is Red Velvet by Manna.

Red Velvet aka Red Cake is a 60/40 indica-dominant hybrid strain. The genetics are a cross between Lemon Cherry Gelato X Pine Acai. Lemon Cherry Gelato is a cross between Sun Sherbet x GSC (Girls Scout Cookies). Pine Acai lineage states that it’s a collection from unknown balanced hybrids. Gelatos are typically known to have very balanced fruity flowers flavoring. On inhale the Gelato flavoring came through instantly. And for a strain that’s at only 15%, it really packs a powerful punch. And that is why I don’t let percentages determine whether or not I try a particular strain. 

Top terpenes include B-Caryophyllene, a-Bisabolol, Linalool. Medical benefits from this strain have been known to help with depression, chronic stress, anxiety, mood swings, chronic pain and chronic fatigue. Leafly Buzz strain May 2022. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.

Affirmation: I am sativa happy and indica relaxed.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

A Life Too Bright for Silence: Honoring Alex Pretti

“Some people leave footprints. Alex left constellations.”

—This Puzzled Life

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Grab your protest sign and a cup of coffee. Because if you live in the Deep South like I do, grief doesn’t just arrive. It sweats through your clothes and fogs up your glasses before breakfast.

Before I knew his name. Before I knew the details that would punch me right in the chest, Alex Pretti reached me. All the way down here where I’m surrounded by red as far as the eye can see. And when a story travels that far and hits that hard, you know it’s not just news. It’s a wake‑up call. It’s a “Lord, give me strength” moment.

I didn’t know Alex personally. But the kind of man he was? You could feel it. He was one of those people whose light didn’t ask permission. It just showed up, loud and warm and human. The kind of man who loved deeply, laughed easily, and carried a softness this world doesn’t always know what to do with. A man who deserved to grow old, to be safe, to be held by a country he believed in.

However, an ICE agent took his life. Another name added to a list no one should ever be on. And here I am, a radical left lesbian mom in Mississippi, suddenly out in the streets protesting because a man I never met had his life taken by a system that keeps insisting it’s “protecting” us while leaving families shattered in its reality.

Alex was the kind of man who felt everything at full volume. He cared deeply. He believed people deserved second chances. Even when he rarely gave himself one. He was the friend who showed up with snacks, unsolicited advice, and a chaotic plan that somehow always worked out. He was the man who apologized to furniture when he bumped into it. The man who hugged like he meant it. Said everything with his full chest. And had a softness, that humanity, is exactly what makes his loss so difficult. When I learned that Alex had been shot by an ICE agent, something inside me cracked. Not because it was surprising. Even though it was. But because it was familiar. Too familiar.

Another life taken. Another family grieving. Another official statement full of phrases like “self-defense” and “ongoing investigation.” Another community left holding the weight of a story that should never have happened.

Alex wasn’t a threat. He wasn’t a danger. He wasn’t a headline. He was a man. A son. A friend. A human being who deserved dignity, safety, and a future. And here’s the part that keeps making tears well up in my eyes. We never met. Our lives never crossed. But somehow his light still reached me. Where people like me are used to feeling outnumbered, unheard, and underestimated. Your story landed right in the middle of my heart like a truth I didn’t know I needed. Your life touched a stranger hundreds of miles away. Your death shook a community you never met. Your name pulled me into the streets to protest because what happened to you was wrong, and silence would’ve been its own kind of violence.

We had the only thing we ever needed in common. We were both Americans who still loved this country. All the colors of the rainbow. Who believed in equality for all. And who loves and respects our constitution. Not blindly, but bravely. Not the sanitized version. Not the version politicians slip out when they want applause.

We loved the real country. The one made of people, not power. The one made of communities, not cruelty. The one that’s worth fighting for because it’s ours, even when it breaks our hearts. You loved this place enough to believe in its promise. And I love it enough to protest the systems that stole you from it.

When I speak Alex’s name, I think of the way he lived. I think of his light and his laugh. The kind that made strangers smile. I think of his hope for our neighbors and country. The kind that refused to dim. I think of his softness. The kind that made people feel safe.

Alex taught me that love doesn’t have to be perfect to be real. He taught me that vulnerability is an act of courage. He taught me that showing up messy, flawed,  and human is enough. You and me strangers on paper. Yet connected in purpose. Your life touched mine, and now your name lives in my throat every time I show up with a sign, a voice, and a righteous amount of Southern gay attitude.

I wish your story ended differently. I wish this country loved you back the way you loved it. Your light didn’t go out. It spread. It reached a queer mom in Mississippi who refuses to be quiet. It reached a community that refuses to forget. It reached people who are tired of watching the same system break the same bodies and call it “order.”

And if ICE, the state, or anyone else wants to know why I’m out here protesting, yelling, writing, and refusing to sit down, the answer is simple. Because Alex Pretti and Renee Good deserved to grow old.Because loving this country means fighting the parts of it that keep killing people. Because silence is not patriotism. Accountability is. And because The United States of America’s Constitution specifically states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that ALL men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” BECAUSE IN THIS COUNTRY, THERE ARE NO KINGS!

And yes, I’ll still make jokes, because grief and humor are cousins in my family. But don’t get it twisted. The fire is real.

Your story changed me. Your name will not fade. And if this country ever gets better, it’ll be because of people like you. And the people who refuse to stop saying your name. Thanks for reading! And never stay quiet.

Affirmation: I honor the fallen by fighting like hell for the living. And by keeping my sense of humor, because the revolution needs snacks and sarcasm.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Purple Punch Strain Vape Cart Review

“Cannabis doesn’t take you away from reality. It changes how you look at it.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Purple Punch.

Purple Punch is an 80/20 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a cross between Larry OG x Grandaddy Purple. Larry OG is a cross between OG Kush x SFV OG (San Fernando Valley). And what powerful strains those genetics are. Grandaddy Purple is a cross between Purple Urkle x Big Bud. All of these genetics are well known historic strains.

The most prominent terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene. Patients report relief from conditions such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, appetite loss, and body aches. What I can tell you about this strain is that you will feel like you got purple punched. It is a very potent strain as flower. But in this vape cart, it’s not long before you get that punch. I can attest to the above relief from stated conditions. This one will put you out and give you some much needed pain relief.

Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower effects, terpenes and genetics will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: My vibe affects my high.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Black History Month: Where the Ancestors Whisper ‘Keep Going’

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Because today, we’re stepping into a month that carries the weight of history, the fire of resilience, and the joy that refuses to be dimmed. This is Black History Month, and we’re honoring it with truth, emotion, and a little humor. I, for one,  know that sometimes laughter is the only thing keeping any of us from flipping a table.

Black History Month is not just a commemorative event. It’s a living, breathing reminder of the brilliance, struggle, creativity, and endurance of Black Americans. It began as Negro History Week in 1926, founded by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. The week was intentionally placed in February to align with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two figures central to Black liberation.

Over time, the celebration grew, and in 1976, it officially expanded into Black History Month, recognized by every U.S. president since. Today, it is celebrated across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. And every February 1st, corporations suddenly “discover” Black people exist. But we’re going to focus on the real story (https://www.blackhistoryandheritage.com/article/black-history-month/origins-black-history-month?utm_source=copilot.com.)

Black history is a story of survival and excellence that deserves its own cinematic universe. It’s the spirituals sung in fields where hope was outlawed. It’s the Harlem Renaissance that has exploded with art, music, and literature that still shapes culture today. It’s the Civil Rights Movement marching with blistered feet and unbreakable courage. It’s Black scientists, inventors, activists, teachers, and everyday heroes shaping the world. And often while the world pretended not to notice.

Black History Month holds space for:

  • Grief for what was stolen.
  • Rage for what was endured.
  • Awe for what was created.
  • Joy that refuses to be dimmed.
  • Humor that has carried generations through the impossible.

Black humor is a survival skill. It’s the auntie who tells the truth with a side of shade. It’s the uncle who swears he marched with Dr. King even though he was born in 1972. It’s the family reunion where the food is seasoned, the stories are exaggerated, and the love is louder. Humor doesn’t erase the pain. It makes the journey bearable. The work isn’t done. Because the wounds aren’t healed. Because the systems aren’t equal. Because the stories still need telling. Because the future still needs building.

This is a reminder that the story is still being written in classrooms, in living rooms, in protests, in art, in laughter, in love. And if you listen closely, you can hear the ancestors whispering: “Keep going. And baby, don’t forget to moisturize.”

As we light the charcoal and sprinkle the sage, may we remember that it’s not just to clear the air. But to honor the ancestors who cleared paths with their bare hands. We breathe deeply for the generations who weren’t allowed to. We laugh loudly for the ones who needed joy but didn’t get enough of it. We celebrate fiercely for the dreams that were deferred but never destroyed.

“As a white person, I honor Black History Month by listening more than I speak, learning what I was never taught, and showing up with humility instead of ego. I affirm my commitment to unlearning harmful narratives, amplifying Black voices, and standing on the right side of history. I choose growth over comfort, accountability over silence, and action over performative allyship. I honor the legacy of Black brilliance by being someone who refuses to look away.” Thanks for reading! And keep on keeping on.

Affirmation: I honor Black History Month by choosing growth, listening with intention, and respect.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

A Life, A Name, A Nation’s Failure: Renee Nicole Good

“Some stories break you. Some stories change you. And some stories demand you stand up, speak up, and refuse to look away. Renee Nicole Good deserved to grow old.”

— Dana, This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today’s story is heavy, holy, and heartbreaking. And it deserves to be told without flinching.

There are moments when the world tilts. Moments when a headline hits you in the chest because you know this isn’t just news. This is someone’s daughter. Someone’s mother. Someone who laughed, cried, loved, lived, and deserved to grow old.

And this time, her name was Renee Nicole Good. She was a 37‑year‑old mother of three who was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026, as reported by CBS News and NBC News. She was unarmed. She was shot three times including once in the head. And it was the wound that killed her according to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s report, cited by MPR News.

I didn’t know Renee personally. But I know the shape of injustice. I know the sound of a system cracking under its own weight. I know what it feels like to be trapped in a place where the people with power insist they’re “keeping you safe” while your body tells you otherwise.

When I read about Renee and about how the fatal shot was to her head. And about how the agent claimed “self‑defense,” about how the body‑camera footage released by ICE shows her backing away when the shots were fired. I felt that familiar ache. The one that says, This should not have happened. The one that says, This keeps happening. The one that says, How many more?

The world saw the moment she died. Millions watched the video, replayed it, argued about it. But Renee was more than the last seconds of her life. She was a whole human being. She was a mother. A woman trying to survive. Someone who deserved to be seen in her fullness. And not just her final frame. Another woman gone. Another family shattered. Another official statement claiming “self‑defense,” as reported by The Associated Press. Another community calling bullshit.

I’ve spent enough time in psychiatric, legal, and medical systems to know how quickly institutions protect themselves. How fast the narrative shifts. How easily a person becomes a problem instead of a person. But Renee wasn’t a problem. She was a life.

When I say her name, Renee Nicole Good, I feel the heaviness of it. The way a name becomes a headline. The way a headline becomes a debate. And the way a debate becomes noise. But behind that noise is a family who will never be the same. Children who will grow up with a before and after. A community that will remember the day everything changed.

And I think about how often marginalized people are told to “comply,” “calm down,” “cooperate,” “not escalate,” “not resist,” “not move,” “not breathe wrong.” And still they die. Grief like this doesn’t fade when the headlines do. It lingers. It haunts. It becomes part of the landscape of a community. And it should. Forgetting is how injustice survives.

Renee deserves better than to be forgotten. She deserves better than to be reduced to a political talking point. She deserves better than to be a momentary outrage. She deserves to be remembered as a woman whose life mattered.

When I read that her death was ruled a homicide, even if the system refuses to call it a crime, I felt that familiar sting. The one that says, We see what happened. We just refuse to name it. And when I read that she was unarmed. And that she posed no threat, and that the fatal shot was to her head, I felt the anger rise. Not the wild, chaotic anger. The quiet kind. The kind that sits in your chest like a stone. The kind that says, This is not justice. This is not safety. This is not okay.

I don’t have a neat ending for this. There isn’t one. But I can say this, Renee, your life mattered. Your story matters. Your name will not be swallowed by the noise. To her family, I am holding you in the softest part of my heart. To her children, I hope the world becomes gentler for you than it was for your mother. To her community, keep speaking, keep fighting, keep remembering. And to anyone reading this who feels the weight of it, you’re not imagining it. You’re not overreacting. You’re not alone.

Some stories demand to be told. Some losses demand to be honored. Some names demand to be spoken. Renee Nicole Good. We see you. We remember you. We will not look away. Thanks for reading! And from the bottom of my heart I say, “Fuck ICE!”

Affirmation: I honor Renee by telling the truth, holding the grief, and refusing to let her name fade.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

National Eating Disorders Awareness: The Hurt We Don’t Talk About

“Eating disorders are so incredibly complex. And they are not about the food.”

-This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk about something that sits quietly in the corners of so many lives. And it’s also something we don’t talk about nearly enough because it’s wrapped in shame, silence, and misunderstanding. And the topic is eating disorders.

This isn’t just a national awareness week to me. It’s a reminder of how many people walk through the world carrying a pain that no one sees. A reminder that the strongest people you know might be fighting battles with food, with their bodies, with their own reflection. A reminder that healing is possible. But it’s not easy. And it’s never linear.

Eating Disorders are not about vanity. They’re about survival. People love to reduce eating disorders to “wanting to be skinny,” but that’s not the truth. Not even close. Eating disorders often grow out of trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, or the desperate need to feel in control when everything else feels chaotic. They’re coping mechanisms that become cages. They’re ways of surviving will eventually start to suffocate.

And the cruelest part is that most people suffering look “fine” on the outside. They smile. They function. They pretend. They hide. Because the world has taught them that their pain is embarrassing, dramatic, or self‑inflicted.

We Live in a culture that worships self‑punishment. And we’re surrounded by messages that tell us to shrink, restrict, cleanse, detox, earn our food, burn our calories, and hate our bodies until they fit someone else’s idea of “acceptable.” We praise people for losing weight without ever asking if they’re okay. We compliment discipline without knowing it might be self‑destruction.

Awareness means calling out the culture that normalizes harm. It means refusing to participate in conversations that shame our own bodies or anyone else’s. It means unlearning the lies we were raised on.

Recovery isn’t a straight line. It’s not a single moment of clarity or a dramatic breakthrough. It’s a thousand tiny choices. It’s eating when you don’t want to. Resting when your mind screams at you to move. Speaking kindly to yourself when the old voice whispers cruelty.

It’s crying in the grocery store. It’s celebrating the days you nourish yourself without guilt. It’s forgiving yourself when you slip. It’s learning to trust your body again, even when it feels impossible. And recovery is not weakness. It is strength in its purest form.

The person who always says they “already ate.” The friend who jokes about needing to “earn” their dinner. The coworker who never joins for lunch. The family member who avoids mirrors. The person who seems confident but is quietly unraveling inside.

Awareness means choosing compassion over assumptions. It means listening without judgment. It means creating space where people feel safe enough to be honest. If you are struggling, you deserve nourishment, and rest. You deserve a life that isn’t ruled by fear, shame, or numbers. You deserve to feel at home in your body not at war with it.

You are not broken. You are not alone. And you are not defined by the hardest thing you’ve survived.

National Eating Disorders Awareness isn’t just a date. It’s a call to soften. To speak gently. To challenge the toxic norms, we’ve accepted for far too long. To check on the people we love. To check on ourselves. To build a world where bodies are respected, not judged. Where food is nourishment, not punishment. Where healing is celebrated, not hidden.

As someone who has battled with eating disorders for more years than I haven’t, I know what it means to live inside a cycle that feels impossible to break. My struggles were born out of trauma but just like so many of my other survival behaviors and even now, after all this time, the echoes of that pain still follow me.

My body isn’t as depleted or fragile as it once was. But the thoughts haven’t magically disappeared. They still show up every day, whispering the old rules, the old fears, and the old lies. I still avoid eating in front of people whenever I can. I still feel that familiar tightening in my chest when food becomes a spotlight instead of nourishment.

Eating disorders are a quiet trap, consuming, and cruel. They take root in the mind long before they show up in the body. They convince you that you’re in control while slowly taking that control away. They drain you mentally and physically, piece by piece, until you feel like there’s nothing left but the disorder itself. And the hardest part is how invisible it can all be. How easy it is to smile, to function and to pretend. How easy it is for the world to miss the pain entirely.

This isn’t weakness. It’s something that grows out of hurt, out of fear, out of the desperate need to feel safe in a world that hasn’t always been safe. And even though the thoughts still come. Even though the habits still tug at me. I’m here. I’m still fighting. I’m still choosing to stay. That matters more than anyone on the outside will ever understand. Thanks for reading! And reach out for help.

Affirmation: My body is not my enemy. I deserve compassion, nourishment, and peace.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

The Feline State of the Union: We’re Doomed, Bring Snacks

“Politics is just humans arguing in circles. Cats understand the truth: sit on the highest perch, knock over what no longer serves you, and nap through the drama.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Because today’s blog is a political circus, as told by three cats who have never paid taxes, never voted, and yet somehow believe they understand the system better than any human alive. Sit back and enjoy the girls’ explanation about the chaos of government.

Tinkerbell: “Gather around. The Big Orange Cat is speaking again.”

Coco: “Speaking? He’s yelling. He always yells. Why do humans elect creatures who yell?”

Piper: “I don’t know. But all the other cats around him are making faces like he might’ve pooped out of the litter box.”

Me: “He’s not actually our leader. He’s a waste of fur. He’s just loves hearing his gums flap.”

Tinkerbell: “Then why is he in a fancy room with gold curtains?”

Me: “Because humans make choices.”

Coco: “Poor ones.”

Tinkerbell: “Who are these other creatures around him?”

Me: “His cabinet.”

Piper: “Like furniture?”

Coco: “No, idiot. Advisors. Though honestly, furniture might do a better job.”

Tinkerbell: “I see a raccoon with a briefcase. A goose with a badge. A possum asleep under the table.”

Me: “That’s surprisingly accurate.”

Piper: “Why is the goose in charge of paperwork?”

Coco: “Because humans love chaos.”

Me: “Well, he is also involved in a coverup regarding “The Catstein Files.” Okay, this channel is supposed to explain what’s happening.”

Coco: “All I hear is squawking.”

Piper: “They’re parrots! They repeat everything! This is amazing!”

Tinkerbell: “They are not reporting. They are echoing. Loudly. With feathers.”

Coco: “One of them just said “BREAKING NEWS” for the fourth time in ten minutes.”

Piper: “BREAKING NEWS: I knocked over a plant.”

Coco: “BREAKING NEWS: No one is surprised.”

Tinkerbell: “Why are those geese chasing people?”

Me: “That’s LICE a Border Patrol Enforcement Agency.”

Coco: “Enforcement? They’re honking aggressively and losing their paperwork.”

Piper: “One of them is eating the paperwork.”

Tinkerbell: “Truly, a symbol of government efficiency.”

Me: “They’re supposed to keep things organized.”

Coco: “They can’t even keep their feathers organized. And what is that thing on his head?”

Me: “That is a fur piece he saved and put on his head. He calls it a hairstyle. But it looks like a gigantic, runaway hairball.”

Tinkerbell: “Well, you would have to see his cat parents to understand where his hideous genetics originated. I have lived many lives. I have seen many things. But this is the most chaotic government I have ever witnessed.”

Coco: “If humans ran the world like cats, everything would be better. Step one: naps. Step two: snacks. Step three: no yelling.”

Piper: “Step four: chase the geese.”

Coco: “Piper, no.”

Piper: “Piper, YES!”

After reviewing the Big Orange Cat, the raccoon cabinet, the parrot news network, and the goose enforcement squad, my cats have reached a unanimous conclusion, that humans should not be in charge of anything. Not governments. Not agencies. Not news. Not even their own shoes. If cats ran the world, it would be quieter, cleaner, and significantly fluffier. Though admittedly, nothing would ever get done because everyone would be asleep. Thanks for reading! And stand up for your rights and the rights of others.

Affirmation: I remain calm, centered, and spiritually moisturized, even when the world behaves like a raccoon run cabinet meeting where parrots scream policy updates and geese with clipboards chase each other in circles.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

Ridiculous Quotes Made By Donald Trump Final

“He was a great cheerleader for the country. But not great on the trade.”

-Donald Trump on Ronald Reagan

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Now let us continue…

1.        “I have a great relationship with the blacks. I’ve always had a great relationship with the blacks.”-Anderson Cooper 360, 7/23/15

Donald has made numerous racists remarks about anyone who isn’t white calling them “animals,” “stone cold killers,” “worst people,” and “The enemy from within.” I don’t know about you, but this sounds a lot like Hitler’s description of the Jews.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

2.        “Sorry losers and haters, but my I.Q. is one of the highest-and you all know it! Please don’t feel so stupid or insecure, it’s not your fault.”-Twitter, 5/9/13

Ummmm…Donald just because you were able to identify a giraffe, it doesn’t mean that you can draw a clock. He is of very low intelligence.

https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/wild-donald-trump-quotes/23/

3.        “I won’t do anything to take care of them. I’ll supply funds and she’ll take care of the kids. It’s not like I’m going to be walking the kids down Central Park.”-Howard Stern Interview, 2005.

This quote looks like the common misogyny that his administration and supporters tend to go with. They basically don’t want women to have any rights. And that their place in the world is barefoot and pregnant.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

4.        “My fingers are long and beautiful, as , it has been well documented, are various other parts of my body.”-New York Post, 2011

Stormy Daniels wrote in her book Full Disclosure about Donald Trump’s penis.

She describes Trump’s penis as “smaller than average” but “not freakishly small.”

“He knows he has an unusual penis,” Daniels writes. “It has a huge mushroom head. Like a toadstool …

“I lay there, annoyed that I was getting &%$#@* by a guy with Yeti pubes and a &%$# like the mushroom character in Mario Kart …

“It may have been the least impressive sex I’d ever had, but clearly, he didn’t share that opinion.”

One thing I personally know about male misogyny is that if you feel the need to project that you have a large “member,” it’s very clear that the individual is describing their ego instead of their penis size. I was married to someone that did the same thing. And he had a very small penis. But I would end my life if I ever thought that I would have to roll around all night with the United States Orange Turd.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2018/sep/18/stormy-daniels-tell-all-book-on-trump-salacious-detail-and-claims-of-cheating

 https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

5.        “We’re rounding ‘em up in very humane way, in a very nice way. And they’re going to be happy because they want to be legalized. And, by the way, I know it doesn’t sound nice. But not everything is nice.” 60 Minute, 2015

There is absolutely nothing humane about the way that ICE is rounding up illegal immigrants and American citizens. And the holding facilities have been described as “deplorable.”

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

6.        The U.S. cannot allow EBOLA-infected people back. People that go to faraway places to help out are great-but must suffer the consequences.”-Twitter 2/19/14

During the 2014-2016 West African Ebola epidemic, a total of two people of African descent with confirmed cases of Ebola came into the US.

https://srhd.org/health-topics/diseases-conditions/ebola#:~:text=In%202014%2C%20four%20cases%20were,returning%20to%20the%20United%20States

 https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

7.        “Global warming is fine because we’ll have more oceanfront property.”

This ding-dong knows nothing about global warming. In fact, he doesn’t even believe that global warming exists.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/08/13/does-donald-trump-understand-how-ocean-works/

8.        And let us not forget tariffs that were placed on “Penguin Island.” 

The U.S. imposed tariffs on Heard and McDonalds Islands, which are a remote Australian territory near Antarctica inhabited by wildlife but no humans. The only inhabitants are penguins, seals, and seabirds. They have not been visited by a human in nearly 10 years.

https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-tariffs-australia-liberation-day-2054649

9.        “You know we’ve cut drug prices by 1,200, 1,300, 1,400, 1,500%. I don’t mean 50%. I mean 14-, 1,500%.”

I think anyone who has had basic math in school understands that one whole item is 100%. However, the idiot in the White House is willing to pay us to go pick up medications. And that has yet to come true. 

https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-trump-prescription-drug-prices-drop-b3e5bf8a98310de45e39d3911d112979#:~:text=That’s%20not%20possible,than%20the%20other%20way%20around.

10.   He also proposed a dividend of at least $2,000 per person for individuals below a certain income level, funded by tariff revenue. “We’re taking in so much money that we may very well make a dividend to the people of America.”

I guess maybe those are also lost in the mail and hanging out with our DOGE refund checks. We will receive those in the month of Neveruary.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/08/business/trump-trade-tariff-rebate-check#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWe’re%20taking%20in%20so,It%20could%20become%20quite%20dangerous.%E2%80%9D

11.   “The line of ‘Make America Great Again,’ the phrase, that was mine, I came up with it about a year ago, and I kept using it, and everybody’s using it, they are all loving it. I don’t know, I guess I should copyright it, maybe I have copyrighted it.”

-MyFox New York, March 2015

“Let’s Make America Great Again” was one of Ronald Reagan’s most well-known campaign slogans. However, the parallels of Hitler surrounding the “stab-in-the-back” myth, blaming Jews, communist, and liberals for Germany’s post-WW1 economic and political distress and promising to purge these “domestic enemies” to renew the nation. That sounds like a large helping of Donald Trump in today’s time.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

https://time.com/6971088/adolf-hitler-take-power-democracy/

I cannot make clearer the desperate times in which our country resides. The one thing I always said about being abused by a malignant narcissist is that what you saw wasn’t as bad as when the door closed and everyone disappeared. But then as time went on, he started slipping and his cruelty became overt rather than covert. Donald Trump skipped the covert part. And his cruelty is on center stage for the world to witness. And the more you allow an abuser to get away with more cruelty is by doing nothing about it. And when they begin losing their strong hold, their cruelty will inevitably  escalate. America, our time is now! It is time to take down the Trump regime and restore democracy. Thanks for reading!

Affirmation: A blatant lie, the most amazing lie ever. 

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Coffee Creamer Strain Review

“The best conversations happen with a little cannabis and a lot of honesty.”

 — Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, as we’re facing 2026 with our horrible administration, what would go great with those discussions with friends and family. We all know that many of us are coffee drinkers. And what better strain to go with the coffee and conversations but a little bit of coffee creamer.

Coffee Creamer is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a cross between Zkittlez x Kush Mints. I immediately tasted the creamy flavoring in this strain.

Top terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Limonene. Patients report relief from conditions such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, muscle tension, and appetite stimulation. And for me, it helped gently rock me to sleep. And if you’re needing something after a hard day to relax, this strain will do it. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.

Affirmation: I deserve relief, peace, and moments of ease.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Ridiculous Quotes Made By Donald Trump

“The president is unhinged. He is unwell.”

-Rep. Madeline Dean (D-PA)

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. 2025 was a total bust for our country. Oh look! We get to continue with the horror story. I must say that I haven’t gotten through it unscathed just like many of us. We have a horrific man leading our country into the land of destruction. But I must say, my favorite moments of his presidency have been some of the most idiotic things I’ve ever seen. And I’m not just talking about the atrocities committed on the American people. It has to do with some of his most uneducated statements. 

I have taken the time to compile a list of some of his very uneducated moments throughout his reign. If you’re reading this and you are MAGA, well your feelings will get hurt yet again. But for those of us who are able to see the humor among the disaster, here’s a list that is sure to provide much entertainment.

1.        “You’re disgusting.”-New York Times, 7/29/15 referencing breastfeeding mothers.

Some mothers feed their children the natural way. Just a completely dumbass quote, Donald.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

2.        “What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening.”-7/24/18

This quote is nothing more than textbook “gas lighting.”

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

3.        “Kim Jong-Un speaks and his people sit up at attention. I want my people to do the same.”-Fox & Friends 6/15/18

“You’re not a dictator. We the People are your boss.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

4.        “One year ago, our country was in deep trouble, but today, just eight months into my administration we’re the greatest country anywhere in the world, and there is no other country even close.”

Actually, our country is one big shit show. And it’s failing at an alarming rate. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-address-united-nations-general-assembly/story?id=125827572#:~:text=Trump%20spared%20no%20criticism%20in,the%20top%20of%20his%20remarks.

5.        “Under my leadership, energy costs are down, gasoline prices are down, grocery prices are down, mortgage rates are down, and inflation has been defeated.”

All of these areas are making affordability in the United States more and more difficult every single day.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fact-checking-trumps-recent-claims-about-the-economy/#:~:text=%22Under%20my%20leadership%2C%20energy%20costs,23

6.        “There was nobody tougher on Russia than me, nobody.”

Actually, Donald is being “dog walked” and humiliate by Russia dictator Vladimir Putin. Because we all know that Putin has “the goods” on Donald.

https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/09/politics/donald-trump-hugh-hewitt#:~:text=The%20former%20President%20of%20the%20United%20States%20recounting%20his%20appointments,I%20got%20the%20first%20time.%E2%80%9D

7.       “I will build a great wall-and nobody builds walls better than me, believe me-and I’ll     build them very inexpensively. I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words.” Campaigning point

Ok. First, a seven-mile stretch of the wall was the discounted and low cost over $70 million. Trump’s 576-mile border wall is expected to cost nearly 420 million per mile, which is more expensive than any other wall under construction in the world. Plus, Mexico didn’t pay for the wall. The American taxpayer did.

https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/09/politics/donald-trump-hugh-hewitt#:~:text=The%20former%20President%20of%20the%20United%20States%20recounting%20his%20appointments,I%20got%20the%20first%20time.%E2%80%9D

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/cbp-awards-first-border-wall-contract-president-trumps-second-term

https://www.npr.org/2020/01/19/797319968/-11-billion-and-counting-trumps-border-wall-would-be-the-world-s-most-costly

8.        “To be blunt, people would vote for me. They just would. Why? Maybe because I’m so good looking.”- New York Times, 9/19/99

Actually, the first thing I want to do when I see him is vomit. He is NOT a good-looking guy. Just look at his parents.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

9.        “The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive.”-Twitter 6/10/12

Global warming is a real thing and each year our weather become more and more unpredictable.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

10.   “We have it totally under control. It’s one person coming in from China. It’s going to be just fine.”-1/22/20

Covid wasn’t “under control.” An estimated 1.2 million reported deaths in the United States. And globally confirmed deaths are around 7.1 million. 

Surveillance and Data Analytics | COVID-19 | CDC

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

11.   “I love the poorly educated.”

And in conversations with his supports, this is the truest statement that has ever come out of his mouth.

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/amp/politics/trump-overwhelmingly-leads-rivals-in-support-from-less-educated-americans

12.   “He’s not a war hero. He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who weren’t captured.”-Iowa Family Leadership Summit, 7/18/15

That’s a heck of a thing to say about someone that defended your freedom. So, that you can get on television to demean the very people that put you in power Mr. Bone Spurs Draft Dodger.

https://www.shortlist.com/news/most-ridiculous-trump-quotes-ever

Thanks for reading! I hope you’ve enjoyed some laughs at the absurdity of our current president. I can’t imagine what it’s like to go through life that incredibly dumb. I hope that he can get educated before our country is in total disarray. Wait! It’s too late. Until next time, find something that makes you laugh. Even if you laugh at his expense.

Affirmation: I wake up winning. Winning so much, I might get tired of winning.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

 -Martin Luther King, Jr.

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Let the heaviness lift and the negativity fade. Today, I want to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It is a day to honor courage, justice, and the kind of hope that refuses to die.

 In a world that still struggles with division, taking a moment to clear the air and center his message feels like the most powerful way to beg. Martin Luther King Jr. remains one of the most transformative figures in American history. It is not because he sought power, but because he insisted that ordinary people could reshape the world through courage, conviction, and nonviolence.

Born in Atlanta in 1929, King grew from a young Baptist minister into the moral center of the Civil Rights Movement, leading campaigns that dismantled segregation and expanded the nation’s understanding of justice.

What makes King so compelling today is how modern his message feels. He warned about the “fierce urgency of now,” a phrase that still echoes in every conversation about inequality, voting rights, or peace. His leadership of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Birmingham Campaign, and the March on Washington wasn’t just strategic, it was visionary. King believed deeply in the power of nonviolent resistance, drawing inspiration from both Christian teachings and the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi (The life of Martin Luther King Jr. | Martin Luther King Jr: An extraordinary life).

His Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 recognized not only his achievements but his insistence that love and justice are inseparable forces in public life. Even as he faced threats, imprisonment, and ultimately assassination in 1968, King refused to abandon his belief that America could become a more humane nation (Martin Luther King Jr. – Biography – NobelPrize.org).

Today, King’s legacy challenges us. It asks whether we are willing to confront injustice with the same clarity and courage. It asks whether we will choose empathy over apathy. And it reminds us that progress is never automatic, it is built by people who refuse to accept the world as it is. King once said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” That arc doesn’t bend on its own. It bends because people, ordinary people, decide to pull (Martin Luther King, Jr. | About Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.).

Living in a place where racism still lingers in the attitudes of many, admiring someone like Dr. King can feel like swimming against the current. Yet he has inspired me for as long as I can remember. His courage, his compassion, and his unwavering belief in equality are values every race and every community should embrace. He changed the world in ways that still ripple through our lives today. Each year, we honor what he did for the Black community, but his legacy stretches far beyond that. His accomplishments and his vision for humanity continue to guide us toward something better. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Affirmation: I choose courage over comfort and stand for justice, as Dr King did.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Remove. Impeach. Convict. Final

“Corruption is worse than prostitution. The latter might endanger the morals of an individual, the former invariably endangers the morals of the entire country.”

-Karl Kraus

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. I know that the descriptions of these sub-humans is getting old. However, I think it’s pertinent to the time that we are experiencing. This one is the last. I apologize for the length. These are some of the individuals that are responsible for the fall of democracy. 

1.        Pete Hegseth: Kegseth/Hogsloth/Whiskeyleaks/Pete Kegstand/a DUI hire/Capitan Morgan/Pete Kegsbreath/Triple Sec of Defense. Secretary of War. He is our government’s token alcoholic and war criminal. And though he has military experience, he “kisses the ring” of Donald Trump and not the constitution. There is no greater disgrace. He was also a FoxNews anchor, where in 2016 he criticiaed the president’s demands that “military officials should ignore the rules of war to achieve their goals.” Yet he is currently being investigated for war crimes relating to the illegal bombing of fishing boats off the coast of  Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Yet Donald Trump pardoned the former President Juan Orlando Hernandez, a cocaine narco-terrorist, who was serving a 45-year prison sentence for conspiring to import over 400 tons of cocaine into the United States. And Hegseth is currently being investigated for war crimes which were not “protecting America.” It was mass murder on the world stage.

https://www.politico.com/news/2025/12/02/trump-honduras-pardon-drug-trafficking-00672632

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/timeline-us-strikes-alleged-drug-boats/story?id=126940218

2.        Stephen Miller: aka Weird Stephen/Submissive Stephen (SS)/The hipster undertaker/White nationalist Dracula/Dead Eyes/Baby Hitler. United States Homeland Security Advisor. He wants to shut down all forms of immigration to the United States. And he demonizes immigrants, regardless of immigration status. He cares about nothing but White Power. An external White House adviser, in Vanity Fair repots said, “Stephen actually enjoys seeing those pictures at the border.” Keep in mind that the pictures are of families being torn apart in the name of immigration and leave children sometimes never seeing their parents ever again. Miller responded that the administration’s decision to implement the policy of zero tolerance was “a simple decision.” Miller also started working with far-right hate groups while studying at Duke University. He worked with David Horowitz Freedom Center, which was an anti-muslim hate group that organized the “Terrorism Awareness Project.” To him the project existed to “make our fellow students aware of the Islamic jihad and the terrorist threat, and to mobilize support for the defense of America and the civilization of the West.” And that, my friend, sounds like German propaganda from the Nazis. With his bald head if you’re looking for him, he will resemble something like a rectal polyp.

https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/celebrity/articles/gavin-newsoms-brand-nickname-stephen-170937918.html

https://www.splcenter.org/resources/extremist-files/stephen-miller/

3.        Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: Microwaved Mel Gibson/The most dangerous nepo baby in American history/Predator/ Secretary of Department of Health and Human Services.He might have the last name Kennedy. But he is not the embodiment of that legacy. He is an absolute idiot of epic proportions. He is an admitted heroin addict. Now how much healthier could the representative from the Department of Health be? In fact, he contracted a pork tapeworm that caused cognitive issues, memory loss, and brain fog. It eventually died off. However, I think we all know that the poor worm probably died of starvation from RFK Jr.’s lack of brain matter. So, I would consider that a form of animal abuse. And truly, he seems to have never recovered from that disaster after some of his absurd claims. And just for the record, he doesn’t believe in medical science. Here are a few idiotic claims to ponder.

a)        Vaccines and Autism: He has repeatedly promoted the claim that vaccines cause autism. Medical and scientific consensus firmly states that there is no link between the two.

b)       Covid-19: He claims that COVID-19 was genetically engineered, These claims have been condemned as antisemitic and racist.

c)        Tylenol and Autism: Kennedy and Trump made the claim that women who took Tylenol in pregnancy increased the risk of autism in their children. Experts also refute this claim stating that Tylenol is one of the few safe pain relievers for pregnant women.

d)       Chronic Disease Statistics: He falsely stated that the percentage of Americans with chronic diseases increased from 3%-60% since his uncle was president. Thank God for fact checkers as the actual percentage was 44.5% in the 1960s. And the current rise is attributed to longer life expectancies and better detection methods.

e)       Antidepressants and Mass Shootings: He states that the use of antidepressants caused a higher rate of mass shootings. This is a claim that scientists say has “no biological plausibility.”

f)         HIV/AIDS: He has also made claims that there were “much better candidates than HIV for what causes AIDS” and “African AIDS is an entirely different disease from Western AIDS.” And that is utter bullshit. They are the same.

g)        Safety of Vaccines:  He stated that there is “no vaccine that is safe and effective.” And also called the COVID-19 vaccine the “deadliest vaccine ever made.” Again, the only thing that stopped the pandemic was the COVID vaccine.

His claims are absolutely ridiculous. There are other claims about ivermectin, chemtrails, brainworms, fluoride and 5G technology. Why do we have someone in charge of this department that doesn’t believe in medical science? And as you can see throughout the nation, childhood diseases once thought eradicated are coming back to kill us all. Before you take anything serious coming from the Department of Human Services, do some fact checking.

And apparently he and ex-flame and disgraced journalist Olivia Nuzzi. And well, the raunchy poems and text messages indicated “felching.” This term describes a sexual term us when one sexual partner sucks semen out of another partner’s anus or vagina following unprotected penetrative sex. One of his poems read, “Your open mouth awaiting my harvest. I mean to squeeze your cheeks to force open your mouth. I’ll hold your nose as you look up at me to encourage you to swallow. Don’t spill a drop. I am a river. You are my canyon. I mean to flow through you. I mean to subdue and tame you. My love.” 

Oh my God! I’m going to vomit. Yep, that is the disgusting human being that is running the government’s health program. I am even more firm in my commitment as a lesbian right now. And I just can’t seem to answer the question, “What exactly qualified him to do anything with health?” In the meantime, diseases once considered eradicated are now coming back with a vengeance and our children and our families will slowly begin to die off.

https://louisianavoice.com/2025/05/02/chemtrails-as-absurd-as-this-conspiracy-theory-is-rfk-jr-believes-it-and-sens-cassidy-and-john-kennedy-own-it/#:~:text=“Seriously%2C%20have%20these%20people%20lost,their%20damn%20minds?”%20Yes.&text=You%20have%20to%20disengage%20from,you’re%20an%20old%20friend.

https://www.ms.now/top-stories/latest/rfk-jr-nepo-baby-testimony-vaccine-congress-trump-rcna229374

https://nypost.com/2025/11/22/us-news/what-is-felching-the-raunchy-sex-act-rfk-jr-texted-about-with-olivia-nuzzi-according-to-ryan-lizza/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/04/25/rfk-jr-chronic-diseases-false/

4.        The United States Supreme Court: This is the ultimate and most prestigious judicial court in our country. And it, for many years, has been one of integrity. It is anything but that now. They continue to make rulings based on the wants of Donald Trump with no respect for our country’s constitution. They are weakening anti-corruption laws, being paid in luxury travel and gifts funded by billionaires. And this is what is stopping the “entire administration from being “transparent. This ruling court should be ashamed at how they are making a mockery of the founding fathers and their efforts.

https://www.acslaw.org/analysis/reports/dark-money/#:~:text=Listen:%20Briefing%20Call%20on%20ACS,to%20core%20freedoms%20and%20principles.

5.        Fox News: aka State Regime Media. It is a notoriously very right-wing media channel that has been sued many times for falsifying information that it passed on to the American public. Fox News agreed to pay an $800 million settlement by Dominion Voting Systems where they claimed that they would have exposed how the network promoted lies about the 2020 presidential election. And the court’s rulings found “that there were certain claims about Dominion to be false.”  That settlement follows a $965 million judgment issued in 2022 against Alex Jones by a Connecticut jury for spreading false conspiracy theories about the Sandy Hook school massacre. And in my opinion, Fox News should never be considered a credible source. And they cater to Donald Trump and his regime.

https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-lawsuit-trial-trump-2020-0ac71f75acfacc52ea80b3e747fb0afe

This blog series is not a complete list of horrors we face in our country at this time. I have left out for space Karo-Lying KKK Leavitt, Jared Kushner, Marco Rubio, Scott Bessent, and Peter Thiel who are equally corrupt. And they will all forever be known in history as the people who tried to kill democracy. They do not stand for our democracy that is defined in the Costitution. They spread hate and discrimination that is a part of the White Nationalist views. They are trying to normalize misogyny, narcissim, racism, homophobia, pedophilia, sexual assault, abuse, and cruelty. And to further these agendas they use Christianity to impose their cruelty. When all it is really is “White Supremacy in Bible Drag.” What they didn’t count on was the power of the people. Our nation has evolved through creating push-back on policies and actions that do not reflect the beliefs of the American people. I have only one statement for Donald Trump and his gestapo regime, “We the people are coming for you!” And you will be held accountable for your crimes. Thanks for reading! And Wake Up America!

Affirmation: Corruption ends where courage begins.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Super Boof Strain Review

“I only smoke on two occasions: when I’m alone  and when I’m with somebody.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain that will be helpful for this year.

Super Boof is a 50/50 balanced hybrid strain that is a cross between Black Cherry Punch x Tropicana Cookies. Black Cherry Punch is a cross between Purple Punch x Black Cherry Pie. Tropicana Cookies are a cross between GSC x Tangie. Once that citrus flavored relief reaches your brain, you will understand why this strain is an award winner.

The major terpenes are Limonene, Myrcene, and Caryophyllene. Patients report relief from chronic stress, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal disorders, mood swings, and chronic pain. And trust me this strain will give you the giggles as your mood improves. And with the current political environment, we all need a good strain to help keep our spirits elevated. Super Boof was voted Leafly’s Strain of the Year in 2024. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I love the many roles cannabis plays in my life. For health and for fun.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Remove. Impeach. Convict. Pt 3

“Now more than ever the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption.”

-James A. Garfield

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a group of people known as “The Guardians of the Pedophiles.” The ones I will speak about today are Donald Trump’s cabinet members and some of the influences in the MAGA movement. “Make America Great Again” was a powerful and very uneducated movement that is now an abject failure. Our government is literally being held together by duct tape and denial. Here are some of the people that has made it what it is.

1.        JD Vance: Vice President aka Smokey Eyed Sociopath/Failed Drag Queen and Eyeliner Earl, Vice President of the United States. The truth of the matter is that JD wears eye liner as a part of his daily full faced makeup routine. And when he presents himself to the public, he literally looks like a failed drag queen. He was an admitted atheist originally. But now is one of the “hell fire and brimstone” people in the White House. And there’s trouble brewing at home with his Hindu immigrant wife Usha Vance, after a questionable hug from Charlie Kirk’s widow on national television. And in his memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, about thrusting his penis into “an inside-out latex glove shoved between two couch cushions.” To which he replied, “I did not have sexual relations with that couch.”  It was a false claim by a user on X. However, this has stuck and it is reported and my belief that Erika Kirk might just be the newest couch. He is a staunch Trump ally, despite being a “Never Trump” critic in 2016. And lastly, his is a leading voice for the “America First” foreign policy. And criticizes “woke” American institutions as the “childless left”. And as someone who really pushes the homophobia aspect, him wearing makeup is pretty “woke” if you ask me. I think that he is even more diabolical than Donald Trump.

(https://pridesource.com/article/creep-of-the-week-july-30-2024)

(https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn07dv4mrg2o)

2.        Mike Johnson: aka Moses Mike Grindr Johnson/MAGA Mike/Moses Johnson/Mike ‘Little Man’ Johnson. U.S. Speaker of the House who is a strong allegiance to Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement to challenge and attempt to prevent the certification of the 2020 election results. He is also very  forward on his opposition to the “wokeness” of the left. And there was a rumor that he has a habit of being on Grindr and being a “power bottom.” At the National Association of Christian Lawmakers (NACL) gala in 2023, he stated that God told him, “Now, step forward” and described his surprise at how God had chosen him to be the Moses figure leading the GOP  . And he and his daughter attended a purity ball, a controversial dance event, popular among conservative Christians in the 2000s, that involves fathers and daughter in formal attire. The daughters then sign a pledge to their fathers to abstain from dating and to remain sexually abstinent until marriage. And that is just plain creepy to sign your virginity over to your father. His “wokeness” contradicts his conservative Christian values.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/mike-johnson-compares-himself-moses-203635445.html

https://abcnews.go.com/amp/US/speaker-mike-johnson-daughter-profiled-attending-purity-ball/story?id=105785626

3.        Kash Patel: Kash “Ching Ching” Patel/Cash Pedal/Make-A-Wish Director/Keystone Kash/Cashing in Patel who is the director of the FBI, is part of the corruption regarding the Epstein Files and the “whitewashing” and redacting Donald Trump’s name within those files. Prior to  his current position he was a conspiracy theorist Youtuber who uses taxpayer money to go on extravagant golfing and hunting trips. And it is currently catching heat for also using taxpayer funds to take a private, governmental jet, to take his country singer girlfriend on a date and provide security for her. And currently, Congress has ordered him to release all of the remaining files via the new Epstein Files Transparency Act. He speaks of transparency, but his actions do not reflect that claim. He is in no way now or has ever been qualified to hold his current position as FBI director. One thing he will always have is that “deer in the headlight” look.

https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/kash-patel-hearing-house-judiciary-committee-charlie-kirk-epstein-files/

https://democrats-judiciary.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/under-director-kash-patel-fbi-is-covering-up-trump-s-relationship-with-epstein-sacking-experienced-counterterrorism-agents-and-endangering-public-safety

4.        Pam Bondi: Bootlicker Barbie/Pedophile Protector Pam She is the U.S. Attorney General who will have a lot to answer for when it comes to vindictive prosecution of Leticia James and James Comey who have been targeted by Donald Trump and his administration that make false criminal claims against them both simply because they didn’t “cow tow” to Trump and his demands. Their cases have recently been struck down by judges. She will face imprisonment and being disbarred if convicted about her illegal activities related to her position of power and ethics violations.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/pam-bondi-cant-outrun-her-most-brutal-nicknames/ar-AA1QGUj2

LDAD and Coalition Partners File an Ethics Complaint Against Attorney General Pamela Bondi

 

Ty Cobb says Bondi, Halligan should be disbarred over Comey case

 5. Kristi Noem: aka ICE Barbie/Homeland Barbie/Puppy Killer/Cosplay Kristi/Kowgirl Kristi/Cruella De Vil. Secretary of Homeland Security. Kristi Noem who looks like the “Tammy Faye Baker” of the U.S. government is most notably known for being the Governor of South Dakota and the leader of ICE. During her time as governor she was criticized for the luxury mansion renovations, significant taxpayer-funded travel, and for accepting payments for fundraising from political groups. Specifically, she has spent $60k in mansion upgrades, $640, 000 in state credit card expenses in travel, including trips for book tours and hunting. And has received $80,000 from American Resolve Policy Fund. And her income was supplemented by dark money groups such as Common Cause, ProPublica and American Oversight. In her book “No Going Back” she admits that she shot her 14-month-old dog for being “untrainable.” And just for comparison Michael Vick went to prison for doing exactly what he has done. She is over the controversial ICE operations that are illegally detaining and deporting many “legal” Americans due to skin color and spoke dialect. She also spreads propaganda about “Antifa being a criminal organization.” She has gone so far as getting on the roof of a building to get a better look at these so-called dangerous protestors, only to find about ten people peacefully protesting and one was dressed as a chicken. The propaganda about the false dangers regarding the opposition to Donald Trump has led to the outright cruelty and defiance of judges and court orders. And she recently stated in a Cabinet meeting directly to Donald Trump saying, “Sir, you made it through hurricane season without a hurricane. Even you kept the hurricanes away. We appreciate that.” That statement was in reference to Trump saying that “he should try stopping hurricanes with nuclear missiles.” If looking for her in the wild, she will closely resemble Jigsaw in the Saw movie series.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/the-most-brutal-nicknames-kristi-noem-has-ever-been-called-they-lowkey-check-out/ar-AA1Fx2f9

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/01/kristi-noem-payment-south-dakota-governor

https://people.com/kristi-noem-tells-donald-trump-he-kept-hurricanes-away-11860541

In this episode of “Get To Know Your Government”, I have highlighted some key figures in powerful positions that are responsible for the state of our nation. The corruption runs deep. But like most corruption, this too will fall. And people will be held accountable for their individual participation. These people are unbelievably horrible for what they have done and continue to do to the American people. Thanks for reading! Stay informed.

Affirmation: Transparency shines a light that makes corruption impossible.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Obama Runtz Strain Review

“When I was a kid, I inhaled frequently. That was the point.”

-Barack Obama

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Obama Runtz by River Remedy/The Sipp. I don’t know about you, but after a year of the current administration, I needed to see some hope. And this strain makes me miss the days of former president Obama.

Obama Runtz is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a 3-way cross between Afghani x OG Kush x Runtz. Afghani is another landrace indica strain found in the mountains of Afghanistan. OG Kush is a very popular indica-dominant hybrid strain that is a cross between Chemdawg x Hindu Kush. Runtz is a very popular hybrid that is a cross between Zkittlez x Gelato. These three strains are some of the first ones that I tried when I first began using medical cannabis. So, a combination of all three has made for an enjoyable experience.

The top terpenes for this are B-Caryophyllene, a-Humulene, Caryophyllene Oxide. The medical benefits include relief from depression, chronic stress, anxiety, nausea, appetite loss, insomnia, and other sleep conditions. And when the political environment gets too heavy, this strain is perfect for taking you down a few notches and help you chill. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I am manifesting more cannabis into my life.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Human Trafficking Prevention Month January

“You cannot look away when human beings are bought and sold.”

— Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about human trafficking prevention month.

Human trafficking is a serious crime and a violation of human rights. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit a person for profit.

It most commonly takes two forms:

  • Sex trafficking: When a person is forced, tricked, or coerced into performing commercial sex acts. Any minor involved in commercial sex is considered trafficked, regardless of force or coercion.
  • Labor trafficking: When a person is forced to work through threats, debt, or manipulation in jobs such as agriculture, construction, domestic work, factories, or hospitality.

Human trafficking can happen anywhere homes, workplaces, online, and across borders. Traffickers often target vulnerable individuals, including children, migrants, people experiencing poverty, and those facing abuse or instability. There are several myths that circulate about this type of crime.

Myth: Human trafficking always involves kidnapping.
Reality: Many victims are coerced, manipulated, or deceived, not abducted (Human Trafficking | National Human Trafficking Hotline).

Myth: It happens only overseas.
Reality: Trafficking occurs in all 50 U.S. states and U.S. territories. (Department of Homeland Security).

Myth: Victims will simply ask for help.
Reality: Fear, debt, threats, or trauma may prevent victims from seeking assistance.

Who Are the Most At Risk?

Human trafficking can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, nationality, or background. But certain factors can increase vulnerability, including:

  • Poverty or economic instability
  • Unstable housing or homelessness
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Recent migration or lack of legal status
  • Social isolation or limited support networks

Traffickers often manipulate trust, use deception, or exploit unmet needs to gain control. (Home | National Human Trafficking Hotline)

What Are the Signs of Possible Trafficking?

There’s no single indicator, but the FBI and other authorities list red flags such as:

  • Victims lacking control over their own identification or finances
  • Restricted freedom of movement
  • Excessive work hours with little or no pay
  • Signs of fear, control, or physical abuse
  • Living where they work or in isolated conditions
  • Limited ability to speak for themselves or interact freely with others FBI

Not all victims will show obvious signs, and every situation is different. It is not the same as human smuggling. Smuggling involves consent and ends once a border is crossed, while trafficking is about ongoing exploitation and does not require movement. If you or someone you know may be at risk in the U.S., the National Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting 233733 (BEFREE).

I have personally spent time with women who survived sex trafficking. I have listened to their stories, and the cruelty they endured is beyond words. No one should ever have to survive what they are forced to do. This must be a top priority for law enforcement and our communities. While rescues do happen, freedom is only the beginning. The wounds both visible and unseen run deep, and the scars left behind are so profound they leave you stunned, struggling to comprehend the depth of what was taken from them. Thanks for reading!

Affirmation: Every person deserves safety, autonomy, and acceptance.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

National CBD Month

“It’s CBD. It helps with the healing process and inflammation, stuff like that…it’s make your life a better place.”

-Nate & Nick Diaz, MMA fighters

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Today is National CBD Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and educating the public about cannabidiol (CBD).

By now, millions of Americans have learned about the benefits of CBD. However, there are still individuals who choose pharmaceuticals over this natural aid. That is why it’s imperative to clearly state the advantages of using CBD, so others around the world can gain access to it.

CBD has helped many people with both physical and mental health needs, yet it continues to carry a stigma. The main reason for this is the long-standing legal ban on cannabis, since cannabis and CBD are derived from the same plant. When the 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized all hemp products, it clarified that hemp is a part of the cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% THC. With CBD, individuals can experience the benefits of the plant without getting high.

In 2019, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reported that CBD ranked fourth in the U.S. for wellness-related Google searches. This demonstrates CBD’s growing popularity and the public’s desire to learn more. Despite this, 35% of Americans were still unfamiliar with it at the time. In 2020, CBDMD founded National CBD Month to celebrate the availability of CBD products and to expand access to them. Their mission has helped highlight why CBD is sometimes prescribed to cancer patients when traditional medications fall short (https://nationaltoday.com/national-cbd-month/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).

Unfortunately, as if recent legislation hadn’t caused enough harm, a clause has been introduced that would ban these products starting in November 2026. While it’s true that some companies produced dangerously unregulated hemp products that were sold to minors and some consumers became sick, the response should have been regulation, not an outright ban. Instead of protecting consumers through oversight and safety standards, lawmakers chose to eliminate access altogether, which is one of many questionable decisions they’ve made.

My hope is that lawmakers will reconvene and recognize that banning this substance entirely will do more harm than good. Proper regulation would protect consumers while allowing people to make healthier choices for their medical and mental health needs.

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for updates on this issue.

Affirmation: I choose informed, mindful wellness that supports my body and nervous system.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: The Bridge Strain Review

“I think people need to be educated to the fact that marijuana is not a drug. Marijuana is a flower. God put it here.”

-Willie Nelson

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a beautiful strain called The Bridge by Apotha.

I couldn’t find a lot of information about this strain. However, I’m going to give you what I did find. The Bridge is a 50/50 hybrid cross between Street Guru x 1987. Now let’s dive a little deeper. Street Guru is a cross between Gushmintz x Oooze. And 1987 is across between (Fort Collins Cough x Super Silver Sour Diesel) x ( Kali Mist x Super Silver Sour Diesel). Good gracious that’s a lot of genetic material! The flavors include sweet, fruity berry flavors with a little bit of hazy and a dash of spicy notes. The assortment of flavors resembles a party in your mouth.

The top terpenes include B-Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Terpinolene (good as an antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial). The medical benefits in this strain includes relief from chronic stress, chronic fatigue, depression, mood swings, ADD or ADHD, headaches, and migraines. Let me just say that this balanced hybrid is an experience that you will never forget. And I promise that it’s one that would be perfect for amateur and experienced smokers. You can smoke it throughout the day and not worry about the hard core “couch lock.” Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I love being a stoner.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Top Cannabis Strains Of 2025

“When in doubt, smoke it out.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to give you a list of the stop cannabis strains of 2025. I know. I have smoked acres of weed this year. And I always enjoy seeing the top weed strains of the year. 

It’s that time of year where we find out top strains from across the country. I manage my healthcare by researching strains that work best on my symptoms. And then, I look to see if any of the strains are found locally. See if you recognize any of these strains.

1.        Blue Dream: a hybrid that gives you that nice balanced high. This strain works very well for PTSD.

2.        Gelato 41: A balanced hybrid known for sweet flavoring.

3.        Cocolato: A daytime use with chocolate and coconut flavoring.

4.        Sour Diesel: This is a classic sativa-dominant hybrid strain used to help with anxiety and fatigue.

5.        Lemon Cherry Gelato: An uplifting hybrid popular for citrus and berry flavors.

6.        White Runtz: A good strain to help with both relaxation and mental clarity.

7.        Pink Certz: Uplifting hybrid that I tried recently that is very impressive with its balanced effects.

8.        Godfather OG: A potent indica-dominant strain that has the potential to grant you a “couch lock” session.

9.        Ice Cream Cake: I love this strain! It works well on pain, stress, anxiety, and insomnia. And it will make sure you drift off into a nice little cannabis coma.

10.   OG Kush: Another classic blend of indica-dominance. This is just a good all-around strain.

11.   Permanent Marker: I tried this indica-dominant strain this year. It definitely has the potency and stink that aims to please.

12.   South Diesel: Classic sativa-dominant hybrid that is sure to give you some “get-up-and-go” effects while putting a the sour and stink flavors in one luscious bud.

13.   Biscotti: This is an indica-dominant hybrid  that is known as a “dessert strain” flavoring.

14.   Super Boof: This is a stain that is sativa-dominant that didn’t push my anxiety into a panic attack. But use sparingly if you’re really sensitive to sativa strains. Just a “WOW” strain in my opinion.

15.   Cereal Milk: This strain is known for its sweet and creamy taste profile. It’s said to be sativa leaning. However, it feels like a balanced hybrid. A must try for anyone!

16.   Blueberry: A classic indica dominant strain that is known as a suppressor for many conditions and rich berry flavoring. This strain is often crossbred to many different strains. And a big genetic factor for strains that work is known to work well on PTSD.

I can say with certainty that these are not the only strains that have been spotlighted for 2025. But it is a list that maybe you have tried and can attest to the power of their medicine. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.”

Affirmation: Love flows to me, through me, and around me.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Merry Christmas From Piper, Coco, And Tink

“You had me at meow.”

-Unknown

Piper: “When’s our next holiday?”

Me: “Funny you should ask. It is called Christmas.”

Piper: “And what happens then?”

Me: “Well, it’s another holiday where we spend time together as a family. Except this time, we leave catnip and treats out for Kitty Claus.”

Piper: “What does Kitty Claus do?”

Me: “He brings toys and snacks to all the cats all over the world.”

Piper: “Whoa! How does he do all of that?”

Me: “Well, Kitty Claus has a sleigh that’s magically powered by catnip. And then while all the cats are sleeping, he comes to where they are and leaves out gifts. And then he goes to the next area. And we leave out snacks with some tuna juice out to make sure he doesn’t get too hungry.”

Piper: “Oh, momma. What a great idea! I just love Kitty Claus.”

Me: “But have you been good this year?”

Piper: “Momma, I have been the best. Coco hasn’t because she’s grouchy and has been smacking me ever since I had my surgery.”

Me:  “Weren’t you around a lot of other animals?”

Piper: “Yes ma’am.”

Me: “When you come home and you smell funny, sometimes it scares other cats. Plus, you were definitely “bobbing and weaving.” And the smell of other animals stays in your fur for a while. And when you come home and start swatting  things in the air that aren’t there it is kind of understandable. Don’t you think? 

Piper: “You mean to tell me that I smell like a dog too?”

Me: “Ummmm….Yes you do!”

Coco: “Hello. I do have my own voice. Let me explain something little feline. I smelled the residue of a thermometer and those horrible dogs on you. Do you want to smell like those things?”

Piper: “Oh. I never want to smell like them. They are definitely the lesser of the animal species. And by the way, I was smelling colors and playing with butterflies.”

Tink: “Yea the ones that were not visible to the rest of us. But it’s ok. We did the same thing after our surgeries. It’s ok, kiddo. Coco is the oldest and, by far, the grouchiest.”

Piper: “I love you two. Ya’ll are the best! You teach me so many things. How are my manners?”

Coco: “There is always room for improvement.”

Tink: “Coming from the one who walks across momma in the mornings always putting her internal organs are risk? And the one who breaks into the tub where the cookies stay, and helps herself to a buffet?”

Me: “Ok girls. That’s enough. Everyone makes mistakes and Piper is still learning. But Coco, that does hurt when you walk across me in the mornings.”

Coco: “When I’m starving, my vision starts to become blurry. So, I need to be able to wake you up to feed me so that it doesn’t become permanent.”

Me: “Coco, you are not losing vision from being hungry. And I do not do things based on your inability to be patient.”

Tink: “Piper, you are doing better.”

Piper: “Thank you, Big Sissy. Momma, can we put out the yummies?”

Me: “Yes we can. And then ya’ll need to go to sleep so that Kitty Claus will bring your gifts.”

Coco: “Fine. But I need more cookies.”

Me: “Ok everyone needs to use the litter box and decide where they want to sleep.”

Tink: “I’m sleeping in front of the heater.”

Coco: “Oh me too.”

Piper: “Oh, I want to sleep in front of the heater too. Momma, come help me. I want to hurry and get into bed so that Kitty Clause brings my toys and snacks. Will you hold me while I go to sleep?”

Me: “The problem with that is that you will never get still. And then you just start chewing on my fingers.”

Piper: “That’s because they’re my binky.”

Me: “Well, don’t use my fingers as your binky. Go use the litter box.”

A few moments later

Piper: “Ok, momma. Wow! It looks great!”

Me: “Ok baby. Let’s go get in the recliner and I’ll hold you for a few minutes.”

Piper: “Yippee! Night big sissies!”

Coco and Tink: “Good night Piper.”

Piper took several minutes to gently lick and then chew my fingers while also being squirmy. I put her on her bed. All of the girls began taking their final baths for the day. And I watched videos on my phone. After several minutes, I looked up to find them all sound asleep. My family finally felt complete. Things get loud and crazy with the boys and the cats. But I smiled and realized, at that very moment, what Christmas was all about. It’s not about how much catnip and treats that you own. It’s about the type of unconditional love that can only come from some humans and all animals. And despite what the world might think, Coco, Tink, and Piper, love me no matter what.

Affirmation: I am worth treats and adoration.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

Featured darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Blueberry Muffins Strain Review

“I’m just a little “high” maintenance.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain that reminds me of cold mornings when I was a kid. The strain is called Blueberry Muffins.

Blueberry Muffins is an 80/20 indica-dominant hybrid that many stoners love. It is a cross between Purple Panty Dropper x Blueberry. Purple Panty Dropper is a cross between Purple Haze x Oregon Grape x Matanuskan Mist. Blueberry is a cross between Purple Thai x Afghan. This strain is just loaded with great genetics. And it’s one that I really enjoy.

The major terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, Humulene, and Bisabolol. Patients report relief from conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, stress, nausea, headaches, and migraines. This strain is just an all-around good strain. It’s good for both day and nighttime. It’s still a very indica strain that is what I need with overstimulation. If you are used to smoking heavy indicas, this one is not that potent. Beware of the dreaded “couch lock” if not used in moderation though. But it is still strong enough to use at night. This is a very popular strain in the area in which I live. And I would highly recommend this strain for potency and that wonderful berry flavoring. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.

Affirmation: I am a natural stoner

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

What Is “Scromiting?”

“If puking is punctuation, scromiting is writing in all caps.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about the some of the latest news in cannabis. There is a condition that is linked to chronic cannabis use known as “scromiting.” Let’s look at the latest news surrounding this unpleasant condition.

  “Scromiting” is a term for the condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). It was once thought to be rare. But now it’s being seen almost daily in emergency rooms. The term is a combination of screaming and vomiting. And it’s linked to chronic, heavy marijuana use. The patient experiences intense abdominal pain and uncontrollable vomiting that causes them to cry out in distress (https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/02/health/scromiting-marijuana-vomiting-syndrome-wellness#:~:text=Still%2C%20why%20would%20the%20same,weed%20are%20affected%20by%20CHS.)

CHS is a condition where cannabis is used to alleviate nausea and vomiting. However, in some long-term heavy users, the high levels of THC can disrupt the body’s endocannabinoid system, which will cause the direct opposite effect. It binds to the receptors in your brain, spinal cord, gastrointestinal tract, and other body tissues. Common symptoms include persistent nausea, repeated vomiting and retching (up to 5 times an hour), intense abdominal discomfort or pain, fear of throwing up, and loss of appetite (https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/high-potency-weed-linked-psychotic-episodes-mysterious-vomiting-illness-young-n1273463#:~:text=Scromiting%20cases%20have%20increased%20as,as%20high%20as%2090%20percent.)

This condition has become more common with the rising potency of THC in today’s cannabis market. And surprisingly, patients report that they find relief in a very hot shower or bath. The reasons why this seems to help is still unknown. This is not a reaction due to a single use. And not all heavy users develop the condition. Patients who develop CHS often report large daily amounts of THC with as much as 2,000 milligrams in a day. And it’s typically seen in heavy concentrate users in which THC levels are around 60%-90% (https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/02/health/scromiting-marijuana-vomiting-syndrome-wellness#:~:text=Still%2C%20why%20would%20the%20same,weed%20are%20affected%20by%20CHS.)

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome occurs in phases:

§  Prodromal Phase: Early morning nausea and mild abdominal discomfort without actually vomiting. This phase can last for months or years.

§  Hyperemetic Phase: This is the phase where “scromiting” occurs. Recurrent bouts of severe nausea, intense abdominal pain, and frequent vomiting that can last for hour or days. 

§  Recovery Phase: Symptoms resolve completely after the individual stops using cannabis.

The immediate medical treatment for an episode involves IV fluids,  and anti-nausea medications. And due to the amount of vomiting that takes place, rehydration is a must to prevent organ failure. And sadly, the long-term solution to prevent recurrence is the complete stopping of cannabis use (https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-strange-rise-of-scromiting-most-common-among-young-heavy-cannabis-users-48351.)

The state of Mississippi, where I live, has a limit of 60% on concentrates. But there are some people that need the higher percentages to maintain a therapeutic dose for their conditions. I don’t know if this research is specifically related to bingeing or not. And I have also read where CBD can also cause “scromiting.” Unfortunately, you do not know if you’re susceptible to this condition until it begins happening. And no matter how much time goes by from cessation, the minute someone uses cannabis again, these terrible symptoms will continue.

I think that this is a horrible thing as cannabis has saved millions of lives. And for me cannabis will a be a part of my life for as long as possible. In the information that you have just read, 2,000 milligrams a day is an extreme about of cannabis. And I would be willing to bet that this high of a dose are related to edibles as many don’t understand how powerful they are and can be. So, at this point, I’m still willing to take my chances. Thanks for reading!

Affirmation: Everything will be okay. Not great but okay.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Piper’s Spay Day

“A happy arrangement: many people prefer cats to other people and many cats prefer people to other cats.”

 -Mason Cooley

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a situation that occurred. And, well, it was concerning the specific moment when I had to tell Piper that she was going to get spayed.

Me: “Piper!”

Piper: “Coming momma!”

Me: “What were you three doing?”

Piper: “I had just jumped on Tink’s back and was biting her head. And she was getting mad at me.”

Me: “Well, I need to talk to you about something?”

Coco: “Me and Tink are on the way, momma.”

Me: “Well, it might be good to have you here for support.”

Tink: “Uh-oh. Is everything ok?”

Piper: “What’s the matter momma?”

Me: “Well, when you get to be a certain age you need to have a surgery.”

Tink: “Oh yes! Snip, snip little girl.”

Coco: “Snip! Snip! And it’s going to hurt really bad.”

Me: “Tink! Coco! Ya’ll stop. You’re going to scare her.”

(Piper begins sobbing)

Piper: “Momma, why do you want to make me hurt?”

Me: “Coco and Tink, why did you say that?”

Piper: “Momma, I’m scared!”

Me: “Look, calm down a second. When you get to be a certain age, you must have a surgery to remove your kitten maker.”

Coco: “Snip! Snip!”

Me: “Coco, stop it! Piper, they give you some medicine to make you go to sleep so that you don’t even know that it’s going on.”

Piper: “But momma. What if I wanted to be a momma one day?”

Me: “Piper let me explain something to you. Momma cats don’t just have one kitten. If they had just one, you could have a kitten, and it could live with us. Momma cats have anywhere from 8-12 babies at a time. And we wouldn’t able to keep them. It would be harder on you if I took your babies away from you after you had already bonded with them.”

Piper: “So you’re not doing this to be mean to me?”

Me: “No baby. Tink and Coco did the same thing. And it helps keep you healthier the older you get. If you had a lot of babies and we couldn’t find homes for them all, we would have to take them to the shelter. And there are already too many puppies and kittens who have to do that. I’m just trying to make it easier on you and all of us by doing this. Think about it. If you had 8 kittens. Coco had 8 kittens. And Tink had 8 kittens. What would we have?”

Piper: “A crowd?”

Me: “Yes. And I wouldn’t be able to care for that many.”

Piper: “Ok. Well, I don’t want to be a momma cat to that many babies. But I’m still scared.”

Me: “I know you are. But I will go with you.”

Piper: “You promise?”

Me: “Unless, of course, you know how to drive a vehicle.”

Piper: “No way.”

Me: “I promise you might be a little scared. But you will be fine. And I will go get you whenever they say that you’re safe to come back home. And then we can cuddle, ok?”

Piper: “Ok. Please don’t forget about me.”

Me: “Don’t worry. Me and your sisters would never forget about you.”

Tink: “Piper, we were just messing with you. You will be fine. If you get scared, just ask “tha Jesus” to make you not scared.”

Coco: “Yea, kid. We were just playing with you. I was a little sleepy and sore afterwards. But the doctors will give you some medicine to make you not hurt but just a little bit.”

Piper: “Will you and Tink go with me?”

Coco: “Heck no!”

Piper: “Why not?”

Tink: “Because they take your temperature.”

Piper: “What does that mean?”

Me: “They just want to make sure that you don’t have a fever which would mean that you were sick.”

Piper: “Ok. Well, that doesn’t seem bad.”

(Coco now mumbling)

Coco: “That’s what you think.”

Piper: “What?”

 Me: “Coco hush up. Piper, you will be fine.”

Piper: “Ok. Thank ya’ll for explaining things. I feel better. I love you big sissies.”

Coco and Tink: “We love you too, Piper.”

I’m writing this the day after Piper’s surgery. She did fine. And when I picked her up from the vet, except for the fact that she was still a little bit woozy and moving around like she had eaten an entire container of cannabis edibles, she did extremely well. Piper and Tink hissed at her for the next four hours because she and her carrier smelled like Noah’s ark from being around so many other animals, I am currently writing with two of them in my lap. Remember to always spay and neuter your animals. Thanks for reading!

Affirmation: I know when to curl up for a good nap

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Ibogaine For Opioid Addiction?

“Ibogaine got me through the door. The rest was up to me.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about a plant that is said to help treat addiction. The name of the substance is called Ibogaine. I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t know much about this plant. But what I intend to do is to lay out the information and let you make the determination about what you think. 

First, we’ll look at its origins. Ibogaine is a West African shrub that grows in the Congo and Angola which is then separated from the root bark. The active ingredient in the plant is Tabernanthe iboga. Traditionally it has been used as a hallucinogen to suppress hunger and fatigue while also being used as  an aphrodisiac. Hold up! So, I’m going to be able to smell colors, sleep and get in the mood? And there’s a high likelihood that I might vomit? Count me in!

Purified ibogaine hydrochloride was first introduced to European consumers in 1939 under the name Lambarene. And it was sold in France until 1970 as an antidepressant that could improve mood, physical strength and used by athletes and others recovering from illness. In 1962 Howard Lotsof, a heroin addict, the experience with ibogaine was so transformative that he spent the rest of his life advocating for it as a cure for substance abuse. A Chilean psychiatrist Claudio Naranjo also advocated for ibogaine as a treatment which was described in his book in 1973 called The Healing Journey (Ibogaine Therapy Information- UC Berkeley BCSP, 2025).

Ibogaine is an alkaloid. The treatment with Ibogaine lasts around 12 to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the patient is in a hallucinogenic state. And though some consider it a “surgical” tool for addiction therapy it does have its medical risks (https://.randrmd.com, 2025). These include severe cardiotoxicity and neurological effects which have been associated with sudden death. Specifically, there are cardiac arrhythmias, hallucinations, seizures, nervous system depressant, bradycardia, hypotension, neurotoxicity, and negative psychological effects (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0736467919305700#:~:text=Background,of%20ibogaine’s%20effects%20and%20safety). This treatment should always be done under medical supervision.

Not only is ibogaine used for opiate addiction, but also in the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI), PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Formal testing showed improvements in concentration, memory, information processing, and impulsivity(https://news.stanford.edu, 2024). Here are some statistics to keep in mind about this particular treatment. Studies in regard to Opiate Use Disorder from clinics primarily in Mexico and New Zealand indicate:

§  80% of participants report the elimination or reduction of opiate withdrawal symptoms.

§  50% of participants report no opioid use at 60 days post-treatment.

§   New Zealand study found that 50% of participants achieved one year of abstinence.

§  Another study reported that 30% of participants never used opioids again (Subjective effectiveness of ibogaine treatment for problematic opioid consumption: Short- and long-term outcomes and current psychological functioning in: Journal of Psychedelic Studies Volume 1 Issue 2 (2017).

§  An overall analysis reports that 81% were classified as “responders” which means that they never used opioids again or significantly decreased their use after treatment.

§  In comparison with traditional treatments of Suboxone, Methadone and other pharmacotherapy, abstinence rates were at 50% at one month and 33% after three months (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6157925/#:~:text=Abstract,additional%2011%25%20eventually%20achieved%20abstinence, 2018).

Currently in the United States, Ibogaine is a Scheduled 1 controlled substance. Which means that it has no acceptable medical uses and a high potential for abuse. It is against federal law to possess, sell, or use ibogaine for any purpose outside of a federally approved research setting. However, Texas has allocated $50 million to fund clinical trials for addiction and TBI. Kentucky and Washington have also explored funding. And, yes, there are several biotech companies that are developing non-hallucinogenic analogs that could potentially gain FDA approval in the future.

While this treatment is not currently approved in the United States, a lot of desperate addicts will pay between $5,000 and $15,000 in countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, Portugal, Netherlands, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Brazil, and Gabon. Costs also depend on length of treatment and particular amenities of the individual programs. I’m not completely sold on this form of treatment for addiction or anything else. That’s not to say that people don’t find their own relief through this type of treatment. However, at this point, I would personally like to see more safety considerations and advanced research regarding this method. As an addict myself, I understand that level of desperation to want the cycle of addiction to end. My personal opinion is that I want to keep an eye on future research once it moves out of its infancy in our country. Thanks for reading! And stay informed.

Affirmation: I am a survivor, and I will recover.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Piper’s First Holiday Season

“What greater gift than the love of a cat?”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. This holiday season is Piper’s first. And I have never seen her so happy. She has played so hard with big sisters Coco and Tinkerbell. And I actually saw Coco, the self-assigned mayor of my house, grooming Piper so much that  now Piper will randomly walk over to her and put her head down for a little touch up throughout the day. And she is very inquisitive about everything. Check out this conversation!

Piper: “Momma?”

Me: “Yes Piper.”

Piper: “I have so much fun when my brothers come to visit.”

Me: “I know. I do too.”

(I could see the wheels in her little feline brain turning.)

Piper: “Momma, do you know what my favorite time is?”

Me: “Tell me.”

Piper: “It’s when they go home. Those are the best naps ever.”

Me: “Well, little miss you better find some energy because it’s holiday season.”

Piper: “What was it called when we had food all day long?”

Me: “Ummmm…420?”

Piper: “What is that?”

Me: “That’s when we celebrate my “stinky” medicine.”

Piper: “No. It was not long ago.”

Me: “Thanksgiving?”

Piper: “What does that mean?”

Me: “Well, it’s supposed to be about giving thanks for blessings in your life. And spending time with family.”

Piper: “Well, I spent lots of time with my family.”

Me: “ We all love you too. And you were perfect for our family.”

Piper:  “I’m thankful that I survived. And I now have my very own family.”

Me: “Awe, we love you too, Piper.”

Piper: “Yummy! What is that?”

Me: “Piper you can’t jump into my plate!!!”

Piper: “Why not? I just want to see it. Smell it. And lick it.”

Me: “Ma’am, you must learn some manners.”

Piper: “But it smells so good. And it makes me hungry.”

Me: “Piper, people do not like cats who are overly nosy especially when their eating.”

Piper: “But I’m just a baby kitty.”

Me: “Stop being cute, right now!”

Piper: “But momma, I can’t help it.”

Me: “I will give you a bite. But you have to wait until I’m ready.”

(Approximately 30 seconds goes by and she starts swatting at my hand.)

Me: “Piper stop trying to grab my food! and stay out of my drink!

Piper: “I’m trying to do Thanksgiving.”

Me: “Coco, Tink, come get your sister!”

(I soon hear jingling bells alerting me to there whereabouts.)

Coco: “On my way momma!”

Tink: “Me too!”

(They come running and gasp when they see me.)

Tink: “Piper, No!!!!”

Coco: “Holy Catnip! What are you doing?!”

Piper: “I just want a bite.”

Coco: “Get down here, Piper!”

Piper: “What now?!”

Coco: “First come here. Your catlick is all messed up.”

(Coco begins grooming Piper.)

Tink: “Piper, you cannot do that! Never ever jump in momma’s  plate. She will give you a bite. But you can’t rush her because she’ll go crazy. Do you want to be sprayed with the water bottle?”

Piper: “Heck No!”

Tink: “Yea. We don’t like it either. We just stop doing what got us sprayed.”

Piper: “Oh ok. I’m just hungry.”

Tink: “If you stop, and sit there quiet like you’re supposed to that’s called manners.”

Piper: “Wow! How do you know all of that?”

Coco: “Because we were kittens once too.”

Piper: “I’m so glad you guys are my family. Who else would give me baths?”

Coco and Tink: “We love you too.”

Coco: “We just want you to grow up and be a successful grown cat like we are.”

Piper: “Happy Holidays, big sissies!”

Coco and Tink: “Happy Holidays and catnip dreams to you Piper!”

Affirmation: I will not hesitate to ask for what I need.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Cereal Milk Strain Review

“Wanna smoke? Alpaca bowl.”

-Unknown

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negativity energy, go away. Today, I want to talk about a strain called “Cereal Milk.” I don’t know about you, but I love to turn up the milk in my bowl and drink the leftover cereal milk. Let’s talk for a minute.

Cereal Milk is a balanced hybrid for a well-rounded sesh. And the taste from  beginning to end is one of sweet creaminess. And it’s not a really dank smelling strain. And the genetics are Snowman x Y-Life. On closer look Snowman is another phenotype of Girl Scout Cookies. . Y-Life is a cross of Gelato x OG Kush. These genetics are off the hinge! GSC and OG Kush is all that needs to be said. The initial high is very cerebral with a nice balancing body high.

Medical patients report relief from symptoms like chronic stress, nausea or appetite loss, chronic fatigue, depression, migraines, and chronic pain. Major terpenes are trans-Caryophyllene, Linalool, a-Humulene. In my opinion this strain could be for anyone novice or seasoned. And it would be one good right before work or at lunch. This one has helped me stay more focused and adjust my attitude for the better. Thanks for reading. Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: Cannabis is a tool that enhances focus and awareness.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Happy Birthday, Marshall!

“Sons are the anchors of a mother’s life.”

-Sophocles

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today is a very special day. It’s my oldest son, Marshall, birthday. Fourteen years ago today, after thirty-six hours of labor, Marshall made his entrance into the world. I will say with confidence that I was NOT the one who gave birth. And from that moment, my life was, once again, forever changed.

Our dreams as parents became a reality when our little preemie boy entered the world. And, boy, did he make the sun shine brighter that day. Within moments, we went from sleeping late anytime we wanted to, to now being very protective of this little boy who would call us moms. And now there was a little being that we would literally sacrifice everything for.

Our beautiful little boy name, Marshall Lake Landrum-Arnold, would struggle at the beginning of his life just trying to maintain his own body temperature and learning how to eat and put healthy weight on his tiny, little body. That first year was not easy by any means. And I speak for myself when I say that I was so happy that he arrived. But I was terrified of now being responsible for raising him to adulthood. And I was scared that I would not be enough.

His health scares and concerns were extremely stressful for us as a new family. And for once, I knew what it felt like to be completely helpless and not be able to “quick fix” a situation. But I finally understood the mysterious love between a parent and a child. This little boy, I knew, would change the world even if it was for two lesbian moms.

It has been the most frustrating, difficult, and rewarding job that I never thought possible. Now, fourteen years later, our little preemie is in the throws of puberty. He has a deep voice, peach fuzz, and an almost never-ending attitude. And first thing every morning he hisses and has the most ruthless cause of “bedhead” that I’ve ever seen. But he’s still my little boy.

He was beautiful the moment he entered the world. And he’s still beautiful now. He is the smartest and most caring boy that still loves to hang out with momma and laugh. Now it’s not wanting a bottle and a nap. It’s video games, nerf guns, weird music, a voracious appetite, band practice, books, and a mood swing that is constantly going back and forth. But he’s still my little boy.

We don’t live together now, but he always lives within me. From the moment I wake up until the moment I go to sleep, my thoughts always hold in the recesses of my mind, the many fears of  being a parent. You can have many children, but there is only one first born. And as a first born myself, I try to impress upon him the importance about his role as a big brother. He has dreams and aspirations that I watch change sometimes daily.

Happy Birthday to you my beautiful boy! I look forward to many more years of watching you develop and become a man. While also knowing that three moms can raise a son without a man successfully. I love you more than life. And I thank you for making me a mom and changing my life. I will continue to love you unconditionally no matter what path in life you take. Because the sky is the limit for you. Hug your children because they won’t be babies for very long. Thanks for reading!

 Affirmation: My voice matters.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

What’s Happening To Hemp?

“Policy made without open hearings can lead to unintended harm and fuel the very unregulated market lawmakers aim to prevent.”

-Justin Eve, Hemp Grower

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Ok, so today I want to tell you about the recent nationwide banning of hemp. And this is about to heavily affect people’s lives. I can say personally that I’m very disappointed. Let me explain everything that is going on and what to keep an eye on.

With the recent government shutdown and eventual reopening, the spending bill called the Continuing Appropriations and Extension Act of 2026 had nestled in its grasp was a new law that changed the THC limit from .3% delta-9-THC to .3% total THC. This action has closed the loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill which allowed for people to find relief when medical cannabis was not available. The new restrictions specifically prohibits products containing  more than .4 mgs of total THC per container and bans the use of synthetic or artificial derived cannabinoids.

What does this mean? This means that the cap on THC will now prevent people from getting much needed relief and, once again, pushes consumers to the black market for products. Now, I was not in favor of these products because they were not regulated and gave cannabis a bad name by allowing irresponsible teens to have access to “gas station” and “headshop” products which have made people very sick. This includes CBD, THCa, delta-8, delta-9, edibles and vapes. As usual, though, instead of creating reforms to protect consumers, they have essentially made the products useless. I’m all about regulation because when it’s not regulated there are no testing safety standards that are required for medical cannabis. Therefore, there’s actually no telling what is in these products.

There are full spectrum products that contain THC and other compounds. Broad spectrum products that contain cannabinoids, which many use synthetics, but not the THC to get you high. And isolate products such as delta-8 and delta-9 which are primarily just isolated THC molecules. 

The opposition states that the products are allowed to continue getting people high. Ok, well, the loophole allowed these products to have THCa because it was not THC. The conversion happens when a heat source like a lighter or an oven is used to release the psychoactive effects of the plant. So, essentially the product was still weed that would get you high. The difference is what stage the plant is harvested.

Many people use CBD, which is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, to help relief the uncomfortable effects of many conditions. So now, because of the limits, this relief would require copious amounts of those same products, which is not practical or affordable. This is set to go into effect on November 18, 2026. You might be asking yourself why so far away?

This allows for further legislation which is already in the works to keep these products on the market safely. However, now this will be a federal ban on hemp products which will supersede state governance. The hemp industry is estimated to be supported by 300,000 jobs. And the economic estimates are $28.4 billion in annual sales. The time period allows industry to adapt and to potentially establish a regulatory framework. It also allows federal agencies like the FDA to clarify specific definitions and for the states to determine how they will interpret the federal restrictions within their own cannabis laws. And  an immediate ban would have caused immediate chaos and economic disruption (www.thehill.com, 2025).

If something isn’t done,  the redefinition of hemp will recriminalize most existing intoxicating hemp products which will now impose new, very low THC limits per container. For patients not living in a medical cannabis state, hemp-derived products were their only legal access to certain cannabinoids. The ban would eliminate the alternative completely. And it would limit patient access to only FDA approved drugs with only CBD and no THC (www.statnews.com, 2025).

And what organizations are funding this bill? You got it! Major alcohol industry companies such as: American Distilled Spirits Alliance, Beer Institute, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, Wine America, and Wine Institute, pushed towards this ban as well as other retail giants such as Coca-Cola, Nestle, General Mills, Bacardi North America, and Moet Hennessy USA (https:mjbizdaily.com, 2025). Key congressional figures include Mitch McConnell, Dick Durbin, Tammy Duckworth, Brian Mast, and Nancy Mace (https://stateline.org, 2025). Please contact your congress men and women to urge a protective framework rather than a full ban. Those whose quality of life depends on it. Thanks for reading!

Affirmations: My body is filled with healing energy whenever I use hemp products.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

 #Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Zoo Dog Infused Preroll Strain Review

“I got 99 problems and 420 solutions.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about the “hash hole” or “doughnut” that I will use to celebrate National Hash Hole Day. The strain that I’m going to tell you about is called Zoo Dog.

Zoo Dog is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a cross between Gorilla Glue #4 x Chemdawg. Gorilla Glue #4 is a three way cross between Chem’s Sister x Sour Dubb x Chocolate Diesel. Chemdawg is an indica-dominant hybrid whose exact lineage is unknown. The genetics in this strain are amazing. GG #4 x Chemdawg were some of the first specific strains that tried when I initially got on medical cannabis. These strains are fire on their own. But with the combination of these strains and then a nice strip of concentrate is absolutely a bonfire.

The top terpenes in this strain are Limonene, Humulene, Isopulegol, and B-Caryophyllene. Patients report relief from conditions such as chronic pain, depression, headaches, migraines, anxiety, sleep, and stress. What I can personally tell you about my experience is that you better take your Cheetos to the couch with you. This infused preroll that is sitting at 43.04% will have you growing into the fabric of the couch or recliner within a few tokes. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: My body is filled with healing energy whenever I inhale cannabis.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

Featured darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Black Velvet Strain Review

“I don’t smoke weed to escape reality. I smoke it to make reality funnier.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negativity energy, go away. This little genetically mysterious strain  that will help with the stress of the “Black Friday” hoopla.

Black Velvet is a 50/50 hybrid with rumors of the genetics being a cross between The Black X Burmese Kush. The Black is a 90% indica-dominant hybrid that is derived from Afghan, Vietnamese, and Mexican landraces. But the exact genetics I have yet to find. Burmese Kush is a cross between Burmese x SFV OG Kush (San Fernando Valley).

The major terpene found is Pinene. And this is usually the terpene that handles the added dose of anxiety. However, the dark strains are typically indica-dominant. This will help tremendously with that tiring day of shopping. Patients have reported relief from anxiety, some chronic pain, glaucoma, bipolar disorder with associated mood swings,  and eating disorders. Keep blazin.’ And stay safe.

Affirmation: I am choosing a strain and dosage that supports my intentions and enhances my experience.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Green Crack Strain Review

“The best way I could describe the effect of the marijuana and hashish is that it would make me relaxed and creative.”

-Steve Jobs

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. I’m going to tell you about a strain that will be the perfect “get up and go”  that you need to help make it through this Thanksgiving Holiday and beyond.

Green Crack was the name that Snoop Dogg gave to the strain Green Cush. It is a sativa hybrid that will give you a shot of energy and a calmness for dealing with all of the crowds surrounding Thanksgiving. I will warn you about this strain being known to cause an increase in anxiety. For those that enjoy sativas, I will not fight you for this one. But for people like us who have panic attacks, this is an arch nemesis.

This strain’s genetics are a cross between Skunk #1 x and an unknown indica. It’s a 65/35 sativa dominant. And trust me, it’s very sativa. The top terpenes in this strain are myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene. Pinene is the big anxiety terpene. The other two are used with pain which is usually seen in indica-dominant strains. Don’t get too brave with this one if you have anxiety.

The taste is one that is a mixture of fruity, pine and sweet. And if I’m honest, I would tell you that the taste is actually pretty good compared to heavy indicas that taste hazy. Medical benefits include depression, ADHD, migraines, fatigue, bipolar, chronic pain, appetite, and stress.

The opinion about the effects of this strain are mine only. However, it might work differently for you. The beauty of cannabis is that there is no “one size fits all.” What works for me might not work for you and vice versa. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’!

Affirmation: I love that I love weed as much as I love weed.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

A Moment With Piper

“In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.”

-Terry Pratchett

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about what it’s like living with Piper. She is finally coming into her own and getting bigger every day. Check this out!

Piper: “Momma help me!”

Me: “What is the problem, Piper?”

Piper: “Tink bit my butt for no reason!”

Me: “Did you do anything to her?”

Piper: “No! She just bit me for no reason!”

Tink: “Piper you cowabungaed my head!”

Piper: “No I didn’t! Fluff off!” 

Tink: “What did you say? You little feline fluff ball?”

Piper: “I promise! I did nothing wrong!”

Me: “Piper, the collected evidence shows that you, in fact, jumped on Tink’s head without provocation.”

Piper: “Momma, I’m just a little kitty!”

Me: “And you are responsible for your own kitty actions.”

Tink: “Ha! Ha! I told you, you little snack stealer!”

Piper: “Momma said that I was growing and needed more than anyone else.”

Me: “Piper, I did not! Coco, do you care to chime in?”

Coco: “Hear no evil. See no evil. Speak no evil.”

Piper: “Well, that’s what I heard you say.”

Me: “When, ma’am?”

Piper: “The other night when I was asleep.”

Me: “Piper, that must’ve been while you were dreaming.”

Piper: “Well, you still said it no matter if I was awake or asleep.”

Me: “Piper, you must share your snacks just like you want me to share everything that I eat.”

Piper: “Well, I’m just curious and want to know what you’re eating?”

Me: “By jumping on me and into my plate?”

Piper: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

Thanks for reading! Life with my girls is full of laughs and love. They are my family. Keep moving forward and always spay and neuter you pets.

Affirmation: I deserve every snack and piece of food that I find.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Moroccan Peaches Strain Review

“Kush rolled, glass full. I prefer the better things.”

-Rihana

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negativity energy, go away. Today, I want to discuss a cannabis strain called Moroccan Peaches. And peachy it is!

I don’t know about you. But when I heard this name, I instantly thought about a warm peach cobbler. I know. It’s a very southern thought. This strain is considered a 50/50 hybrid. And I would have to put it above the hybrid strain Pink Peanut. But not by much. 

The genetics for this strain is a cross of Spanish Barbara x Lemon Tree Skorange. Let’s look at the genetics a little closer. Spanish Barbara is known for  its Barbara Bud #23 phenotype. It’s also known for being a sativa-dominant plant with a peach aroma. And I can tell you that the peachy flavors come through so well. From the minute you inhale, the peach aroma follows the entire experience. And before you can exhale this strain hits with gusto.

Lemon Tree Skorange is also a 50/50 hybrid strain known for its lemon flavor profile. And it is believed to be a cross between Lemon Skunk x Sour Diesel. Skorange is a hybrid of Cali O  and OG Kush. And deep in its lineage is THC Bomb. Which is responsible for having a lemon scent and OG Kush dankness.

Moroccan Peaches hits your brain hits your brain with energy but also with a nice indica balance. And for me, it made me a little “chatty Kathy.” Patients report  relief from chronic stress, chronic fatigue, depression, mood swings, migraines, and PMS. Terpene profile include B-Caryophyllene, Limonene, and a-Humulene. Thanks for reading. And keep blazin.’

Affirmation: Happiness is a journey, not a destination, and cannabis keeps it smooth sailing.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

Featured darnold1975

Hide-And-Seek Troubles Again!

“Cats have nine lives-three for playing, three for straying, and three for staying.”

-English Proverb

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about the continued struggles with my cats and playing “hide-and-seek” troubles.

I had hope when Piper joined our family that the remedial work would be successful. However, my girls will probably always be deficient in this area of their lives. I will now show you some of their efforts trying to change their ways. Sadly, they are still coming up short.

Thanks for reading. And keep me and the girls in your thoughts and prayers as we are always looking for solutions to this cat-tastrophy.

Affirmation: You are beautiful. It’s a good day to be a cat.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

Featured darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Candied Apples Strain Review

“Weed taught me patience. Mostly because I forget what I was doing.”

-Unknown

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negativity energy, go away. Today, I want to tell you about the strain known as Candied Apples. This one fits the time of year perfectly.

Candied Apples is a sativa-dominant hybrid that is a cross between Blueberry x Pineapple x Afghan. Blueberry is an indica-dominant hybrid cross between Purple Thai x Thai. Pineapple also known as “Pineapple OG” hybrid of possible genetics between OG Kush x Golden Goat x Pineapple Kush. Afghan is a naturally occurring stain in the Hindu Kush area of Afghanistan with minimal human influence. Thank you to the indica-dominant strains for taming the sativa influence.

Top terpenes include Pinene, Myrcene and Limonene. And it has been known to provide relief from depression, stress, and anxiety. Even though this strain shows a slight dominance of sativa in the terpenes, I didn’t have to worry about the additional anxiety. Another great lunchtime strain. Keep blazin.’ And stay safe.

Affirmation: I am using cannabis mindfully to achieve my goals, whether it’s focus, relaxation, or creativity.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Banana Cream Cake Strain Review

“Some of my finest hours have been spent on my back veranda, hemp and observing as far as my eye can see.”

-Thomas Jefferson

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negativity energy, go away. Today, I want to review the strain Banana Cream Pie. Yep, doesn’t it sound like a strain that would go well during the Thanksgiving holiday? Sit tight, while I describe this nice add to the holidays.

Banana Cream Cake a.k.a Banana Cake is a sativa-dominant hybrid. This strain is made by crossing Wedding Cake x Monkey Banana. This has become one to add to my list of likes. With it being a sativa-dominant strain, I was a little skeptical about whether I would like it. But this little girl is a nice strain.

This strain hit me directly in the eyes like a prized fighter. But it’s not too anxiety provoking. I would be cautious with novice users. Because it will sneak up on you with it’s powerful kick. Patients choose this strain to help with symptoms of chronic depression, anxiety, and pain. I know. There is enough indica in it to tame that anxiety associated with sativas.

This strain was on Leafly’s top 12 strains of 2022 harvest. And what a sweet beauty she is. The sweetness of vanilla combined with chestnuts give this strain a sweet and hardy flavoring. Dominant terpenes are Limonene, trans-Caryophyllene and Linalool. Those with anxiety issues can enjoy but need to be careful and not overdo it.

Thanks for reading! Keep smilin’ and blazin.’

Affirmation: I am grateful for how cannabis expands my creative ability.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Fall and Family

“Sometimes the goal is to just survive, and the memories are a bonus.”

-Unknown

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about the holidays and family. Don’t worry. It also gives me gas at the thought of the two, once again, colliding.

This should be a happy time for most of us. However, especially in our current political climate, I would venture to say that the thought of interacting with family members who stand on the opposite of the isle makes me want to step out into oncoming traffic. So, this year, I’ll be spending most of my holiday time with the only ones that seem trustworthy, my boys and my cats.

My cats could care less about what the current political environment is like. And they also don’t care whether I’m straight or gay. And unlike some of my family members, all they want to do is spend every waking hour with me. With all of my quirkiness, they just seem to keep scrolling as none of that matters to them.

My boys and I will spend time together during their school break. Activities include burning leaves and wood at the fire pit, roasting wieners and marshmallows, and cuddling in the cool night air while talking about the newest and most concerning issues of being a child. And I will, more than likely, be pummeled by nerf gun bullets sometime during their stay.

We never have enough money to do everything that we want to do. But what we do have is each other. They devour every bit of food available. And at the end of the day, they are my children, and I am their mom. The cats are their sisters. There is absolutely nothing that can compare to that.

By the end of their stay, the cats are tired of being nice and the boys are tired of being nice to each other. And I am, once again, interested in a little bit of quiet time. No matter how tired and irritated we can get, me and the boys experience the true meaning of family. And that’s what it’s all supposed to be about. Not judging someone for who they are versus who they are not. Thanks for reading! And enjoy your time with family in whatever way that takes shape.

Affirmation: I will approach this holiday with the same calm wisdom I use to navigate family debates over the thermostat.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Our Pets And Halloween Costumes

“Pawsitively bewitched by my furry friend’s cuteness.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about not forgetting our pets on Halloween. They secretly despise you for the costumes that you pick out. All they wanted was to be a part of the family. And they had no idea that they would be subject to such cruelty. Poor them. I don’t find any of that cruelty. I love seeing our pets dressed up as almost anything. Here are a few of these pets and their personal opinions concerning Halloween costumes. See if you agree. In

 Snoop Dogg

“Fo shizzle my nizzle.”

Colin Oscopy

“Dr Patio Furniture ER Stat!”

Charlie

“A cow?! With utters?! I’m eating the couch pillows when we get home.”

Pudding

“Seriously? I have my head in a hamburger right now?!”

Sister Mary Clarence

“May God forgive you for your sin of dressing me up as a nun.”

Wendy

“How do you live with yourself?”

Jess Kidding

“Let me tell you all the reasons why I hate you.”

Nico Time

“What in the absolute Hell have you done?!”

Cheetolini

“You should go to prison!”

“The Angry Yam”

“You should go to prison twice!”

Power Serge

“A Beanie Baby?! Please tell me it isn’t so.”

Capital Splatter

“I AM CHUCKY!”

Perv Griffins

“This is your fetish! Not mine!”

Rocky and Apollo

“We are calling the ASPCA!”

Thanks for reading! Happy Halloween to you and your pets. Happy Haunting!

Affirmation: I am worthy despite my owner/owners ideas about costumes.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Soul Assassin Strain Review

“I don’t smoke marijuana, but I eat it.”

-Bob Dylan

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Soul Assassin. As domestic violence awareness month winds down and seeing the damage that abuse can do to someone, I thought that the cannabis strain for today was absolutely perfect. Because of being trapped mentally or physically from seeking freedom, often times for years, it feels like the perpetrator has literally assassinated your soul. 

Soul Assassin is a heavy indica-dominant hybrid. Domestic violence is something heavy that is like a wrecking ball in the victim’s life. But this strain is heavy in regard to healing. It’s just what the doctor order for the overstimulation of PTSD. The genetics of this strain is a cross between OG Kush x Sour Diesel. Most like myself, who have been in the cannabis community for many years, know that these are a couple strains that many would consider staples. OG Kush is a cross between Hindu Kush x Lemon Thai x Chemdawg. Sour Diesel is a cross between  Northern Lights x Chemdawg.

The medical benefits associated with this strain include relief from insomnia, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, chronic pain, depression, and inflammation. The top terpenes are B-myrcene, terpinolene, B-Pinene. I got a lot of relief with this strain. I would also encourage you to plan on not going anywhere. As “couchlock” can be a reality. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I smoke my weed and mind my business.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Domestic Violence: Why Didn’t They Just Leave?

“Trauma Bonding is like being a hostage who has developed an irrational affection for your captor. They can abuse you, torture you, even threaten to kill you, and you’ll remain inexplicably and disturbingly loyal.”

– Ann Clendening.

I posted this today to help give you a voice to your own abuser/abusers. I have been in therapy for many years, and sometimes, I even doubt these words. The problem is that we were so indoctrinated with their beliefs, comments, gas lighting, manipulation, and co-dependency that we formed a something called “trauma bonding.”

Trauma Bonding is an unhealthy emotional attachment that develops between a victim and their abuser. It is a complex issue that occurs in different abusive situations that include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. But it’s also important to note that not everyone who goes through abuse forms a trauma bond. However, some people may be more prone to forming a trauma bond due to the early experiences as a form of repetition compulsion https://www.attachement project.com, 2025). This can happen in domestic abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, exploitative employment, kidnapping or hostage-taking, human trafficking, and religious extremism or cults (https://medical newstoday.com, 2023).

Characteristics of Trauma Bonding:

·        Intermittent Reinforcement: The abuser cycles between periods of abuse and kindness creating a sense of hope and dependence in the victim. Victims of abuse may be waiting for that next “feel-good moment” in the relationship that also keeps them trapped in a cycle of abuse and relief (https://www.domesticshelters.org, 2021).

v  This is also how many addictions keep you stuck. If everything were bad all of the time, you would grow tired and leave. But the intermittent reinforcement is how they maintain control.

·        Isolation: The abuser often isolates the victim from their support system, making them more vulnerable and reliant on the abuser ((https://medical newstoday.com, 2023).

v  I was not completely isolated physically from my support systems. But emotionally I was very isolated. He constantly told me that my friends and family didn’t have my best interest at hand. He would make up lies about things they said and assassinate their character behind their backs.

·        Fear and Insecurity: The victim experiences constant fear and insecurity, leading them to believe that they cannot escape the abusive situation (https://www.savantcare.com,2023).

v  The constant fear and insecurity that I experienced was, in fact, my prison cell. And I was afraid to leave even when the door was wide open.

·        Justification: The victim may rationalize the abuser’s actions or blame themselves for the abuse (https://thriveworks.com, 2024).

v  I was conditioned to believe that everything I did that made him angry was my fault. And it wasn’t. Now, I can see that his actions were because of his behavior, not mine.

·        Emotional Manipulation: The abuser uses emotional manipulation to control the victim’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (https://wondermind.com, 2023).

v  This right here was the #1 key factor for why I wouldn’t leave. He even told me, “No other man would ever put up with the things that I have to deal with in you. All of the good things about you, which aren’t many, are because of me. You are useless without me. I have given you everything you wanted. And disobeying me is the thanks that I get? Why do you need anti-depressants when there is no reason that you should be depressed.

Consequences of Trauma Bonding:

·        Difficulty leaving the abusive relationship.

·        Feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame.

·        Low self-esteem and trust issues.

·        Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD (https://www.savantcare.com,2023).

Trauma bonding kept me trapped in an abusive situation. People have said, “Why didn’t you just leave?” The problem lies in the way they you manipulate you into believing that everything bad that happens, no matter how minor, is the victim’s fault. And day after day, their hold strengths without you even realizing it. And in my case, I felt as though I was responsible for their thoughts and feelings. I constantly strived to be “good enough” or “well deserving enough” to see the person that he told and showed me he could be when we met. And quite frankly, it was always just a game. Their abusive self is “the real them.” Believe your instincts and the colors in which they present themselves. For that is who they truly are.

If you have read through this and have never been in a situation where everything you do is being controlled, consider yourself lucky. But don’t you dare sit there and say, “It was their own fault that they didn’t leave.” That is one of the most callous things that you can say to someone who is currently trying to survive and those that have survived finally leaving that situation no matter how long it took.

You have absolutely no right to tell me or anyone else how we should feel simply because you have not experienced it. I stayed much longer than I should’ve. And there are times when I still beat myself up for it. Now though, I give myself some grace for not knowing how to leave or recognizing what was going on in plain sight. It’s not just one event that causes this. It’s something that happens every single day methodically planned and executed by the warden in the relationship.

Once you leave, I highly recommend getting into therapy. Just because you think that no damage has occurred, doesn’t mean that it hasn’t happened. Even now, 19 years later since I left him, I have phobias, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty making decisions. He has left a mark that will last a lifetime. And some of the things that he did I’ll never recover from. He once told me, “You’ll never be without me no matter what you do!” And the truth is that, while he still doesn’t have total control over me, I still allow parts of him to live rent free in my head.

The next post will be something that represents those of us who have managed to leave and have an understanding through therapy how and where to put the responsibility where it truly belongs, on them.

To those who are still in these types of relationships, I see you even when you don’t openly identify yourself. To those who have left and still live in fear, I see you and you’re not alone. To those of us who continue to strive to change those hard-core beliefs that were instilled by way of threats, intimidation, and violence, I see you as well. None of you are alone. And not all relationships are like this. 

Find a therapist that you trust and open your soul to them. Coach has been a lifeline of compassion and understanding for me that I’ve rarely experienced. And she has never made fun of or questioned why I didn’t leave. Unconditional support and her teachings have made life possible for me many lonely nights. I will probably always struggle with some things and that’s ok. This process is certainly a marathon instead of a sprint. And there is no time limit for healing. The whole point is to continue showing up and moving forward in whatever way that might take shape. You are not on an island like you think. There are millions of us both male and female who struggle with the effects and consequences of domestic violence and abuse.

You are loved. You are wanted. And you deserve the good things that life has to offer. Thanks for reading! And I hope you look for the next blog in a couple of days that I post that will help you begin to find your voice. The power to heal is now and ours.

Affirmation: My story has power and inspiration through it.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

 #Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Domestic Violence And Animal Cruelty

“The connection between domestic violence and animal cruelty is so significant that it is commonly referred to simply as “the Link.” Perpetrators of domestic violence often threaten harm or bring actual harm to their victims’ pets in order to control them, keep victims from leaving, or to punish them for actually leaving or attempting to leave.”

-ASPCA.org

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to discuss domestic violence and pets. I won’t pretend that this topic is going to be easy to digest. However, it’s one that needs to be brought into the light.

Many of us sometimes love our animals more than people. I know, speaking only for myself, that my animals have always been a source of comfort, unconditional love, and understanding that many people can’t fully embody. They have never spoken a word as their compassion is in their eyes. And all they ask for is to be fed and also loved in return. That is, it. Nothing more. Nothing less.

My personal experience with domestic violence is knowing that absolutely nothing is off limits. And it is their cruelty that can always get worse. Do some abusers change? Yes. But if they are not willing to do self-reflection and to look at their own traumas and behaviors, then they will not change. And most blame their actions on the victim.

Please Read The Following:

     Up to 75% of women entering DV shelters report that their abuser threatened, harmed, or killed their pets in the presence of children (safehouse.org, 2024).

     Up to 65% of domestic violence victims and 48% of battered women remain in abusive homes out of fear for their pets.

     Only around 5% of U.S. shelters have any kind of housing for pets of domestic violence victims (https://www.drmartybecker.com, 2017).

Why Do Abuser Use Pets To Terrorize Their Human Partners?

·        Creating fear: Abusers may torture or kill a pet to demonstrate what they are capable of doing to their human victim or their children.

v  There were many times when I saw and heard my ex-husband’s violence against my animals. He would muzzle my outside dogs all night long most of the time. And he would beat my cats with a belt if they meowed at night. He also scared my cats so much with a broom that they began to have a very strong fear reaction for many years following me leaving him.

·        Leverage to prevent escape: Many women fear for their pet’s safety is the primary reason they delay leaving an abusive relationship.

v  One of his favorite things to say was, “One day you’re going to look up and all of your animals will be gone. You just might come home one day, and they will have vanished.”

·        Punishment and retaliation: Abusers may harm a pet as punishment for a perceived transgression or in retaliation for a partner trying to leave.

v  After 13 years of being in a domestic violence situation, and over a year of planning my departure, I left him hoping things would cool down enough to go back and get my animals as a way of saying, “I’m done.” Two weeks later, I went back to retrieve my animals, and most had been starved. There was no water. A few of the ones remaining had been eaten by other animals or were mysteriously cut in half. On that day, I was able to get out two cats and my African Grey parrot. Only three of the many that I owned. My cats were starving and had old, moldy food. My bird had moldy food and dirty water. My outside cats were nowhere to be found. And my dogs had been shot which was witnessed by a neighbor. And the sights and smells can never be undone.

·        Forcing participation: Some women survivors tell about how they were forced to participate in illegal acts under threat of harm to their pets.

v  Luckily, I was never forced to do this. Because they would’ve had to do something for me. Because I don’t have the capability to hurt my pets.

“Seeing her hurt was more than I could bear. 

I couldn’t and wouldn’t leave my pets.”

-Sarah, DV Victim

Women have reported:

“He kicked the dog repeatedly until it was howling in pain.”

“He put his hand into the goldfish bowl in front of my five-year-old daughter and squashed the goldfish, for no apparent reason.”

“I can remember an instance when he picked the cat up and with full force drop-kicked it from the back door. He did it because he saw the cat on the workshop. I thought the cat might die.”

“He would refuse to allow us to feed the dog-saying he was ugly.” (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 2008).

Resources for victims who want to leave with their pets:

·        National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

·        The Purple Leash Project

o   Our goal: To see 25% of domestic violence shelters become pet-friendly by 2025.

·        Safe Havens for Pets

o   For pets are sheltering services that help individuals who are experiencing domestic violence or homelessness with a companion animal (https://www.safehavensforpets.org, 2023).

·        RedRover Relief

o   Mission is to “bring animals out of crisis and strengthen the bond between people and animals through emergency sheltering, disaster-relief services, financial assistance, and education.

·        URINYC PALS (New York City)

·        Paws for Safety (Rockland County, New York)

·        Praline’s Backyard (Snellville, Georgia)

·        Ahimsa House (Georgia)

·        Shelter our Pets (New Jersey)

·        Network for Pets of Domestic Violence Victims (www.npdvv.org).

·        This is a list of pet-friendly domestic violence shelters (https://saftprogram.org, 2025).

I completely and unapologetically understand the fear that abusers instill in victims about their victims and their pets. I encourage you to seek help by way of organizations that are listed here and the many others that I don’t have the space to acknowledge. Animal abuse is a crime in all 50 states. And  each state has anti-cruelty statutes that include felony-level provisions for acts of violence against animals. 

And they will “love bomb”  and abuse you until you concede. That is part of their “reign of terror.” They are master manipulators and will suck the soul from your mind and body. And then tell people that you enjoyed it. It is imperative for you and those you love, including your pets, to find a way out of that situation. I beg you to please continue searching for help in every way possible. Because they will do it again. And candy and flowers won’t make it better.

Thanks for reading even though difficult it may be. Please seek help for those you love even if that is for yourself. You and your pets are worth the love and compassion that is waiting for you all. Keep reading. Keep hope alive.

Affirmation: I forgive myself for believing all relationships are abusive and violent.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife











	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			 darnold1975 		


		
Types Of Domestic Violence: The Final Chapter
	


	

		

“Don’t play his game. Play yours.”





-Rachel Caine, Fall of Night (The Morgancille Campires, #41)





TECHNOLOGY-FACILITATED ABUSE





    

  • Monitoring text messages, phone records, social media activity, and internet search history.
    • 




  • Preventing or forbidding a person from owning or having access to a phone or computer.
    • 




  • Sending abusive messages through text, email, social media, or other online platforms.
    • 




  • Using technology to track a person’s movements without their permission.
    • 




  • Using technology to gather personal information about someone without their permission.
    • 




  • Accessing or ‘hacking’ a person’s online accounts without their permission.
    • 




  • Impersonating a person online.
    • 




  • Using technology to share personal and private images or videos without consent.
    • 






v  Luckily, social media and the internet were fairly new things at that time. However, once we separated, he was very threatened through email.














STALKING AND HARASSMENT





    

  • Following and watching someone, for example watching them from a parked car.
    • 






v  I was stalked constantly. And he even went as far as to sit outside my job for the entire shift to make sure I didn’t eat any food that he didn’t approve.





    

  • Using technology to monitor their movements; this is also called tech abuse.
    • 




  • Sending unwanted gifts to a person’s home or workplace.
    • 






v  This was done whenever the cycle rolled back around to “love bombing.” He always gave me gifts and the same speech. However, it would only take a couple of days until he was right back to the same thing starting with verbal and emotional abuse.





    

  • Repeatedly making unwanted contact through phone calls, text messages, emails, social media and other messaging or chat apps.
    • 




  • Turning up, uninvited, at the person’s home or workplace, or at social activities.
    • 






v  He would always justify his actions with some type of excuse for why he showed up. And he was always lying. He always had a more sinister reason.





    

  • Installing spyware on a person’s digital devices to get private information, or to secretly record or video them.
    • 






v  He and his brother went so far as to tap the phone lines at our house to monitor who I was having conversations with.





    

  • Using webcams and other forms of video surveillance without the person’s knowledge or consent.
    • 















REPRODUCTIVE ABUSE





    

  • Preventing a person from using birth control or forcing them to have unprotected sex.
    • 






v  This happened from the very beginning. I was lucky that I never got pregnant.


















Abusers will justify and create new ways of cruelty covered with beautiful paper and a beautiful bow. And to unsuspecting victims, they have no idea what kind of damage is done until many years down the road, if and when they get out and into therapy emphasising on  “deprogramming.” For years, I’ve questioned if what I experienced was true. And that’s the precipous of their game. They teach you how to doubt your own reality,





I left that horrible 14-year relationship, in 2006, battered and broken. Many of the wounds are still evident, and others are in various stages of healing. What I don’t need a degree to diagnose is how deep some of the wounds run. Being conditioned to be someone who you aren’t. And the constant walking on eggshells still wreaks havoc on my nervous system. And I still get overwhelmed  to the point of not being able to make everyday decisions that most take for granted.





What is unseen benefit? For a long time, I never knew the answer to that question. What I did learn was different aspects of human behavior and their “red flags.” Not just physical. But also verbal. I watch how they talk about their other friends and family. I watch non-verbal cues. I watch how they are on both good and bad days. I watch how they communicate. I watch how superficial they are and their intentions. I watch to see, in what ways, they poke fun at another person. Are they being silly or cruel? I watch to see if my needs are considered or is it just “lip service?” But above all, I watch for congruency. I watch behavior with a fine-toothed comb. And for the most part, if I sense that something is off, I’m out. Most of the time, I have to watch them for a little while before deciding about whether or not to end a relationship.





I now listen to my gut. Something that I rarely ever did because he made every decision. And I do mean every decision. My master’s degree never taught me to listen to my gut. Surviving cruelty did. I know what I see. I know what I experience. And your validation is not needed. Thanks for reading! And reach out for HOPE.





Affirmation: I deserve peace.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife



















	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			 darnold1975 		


		
No Kings 2.0
	


	

		

“There are no kings in America. Only gilded me we can topple again and again.”





-Aileen Cassinetto





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about our country for a moment. I don’t usually write much about politics on my blog. Social media is quite different. However, we are currently experiencing unprecedented times. Which is causing so much collateral damage that it could take several presidents to undo what is being done if that is even possible.





When my boys come to visit we always talk about current things like school, everyday life, personal wants, “would you rather” and the current political environment. And to be honest, I never thought I would have to explain basic human rights and how those are egregiously being destroyed. And now the decisions of a lot of Americans have put in power a want to be dictator.





I wrote a blog this past month that recently posted about how good we have it in our country. And now I must retract that statement by tell you that the United States of America, the threat to democracy and the very essence of our lives are now being tailored for a fascist society. And the “American Spirit,” which is not a person, is being made a mockery of the founding fathers’ original intentions. Let me break it down.














Our Foundational Ideas





·        Liberty and Independence: The freedom to think, speak, and act as one chooses without infringing on the rights of others.





·        Self-government: The belief that citizens are the ultimate source of authority and have the right to participate in the political process.





·        Equality: The idea that all people are created equal and deserve fair treatment, respect, and dignity, with equal opportunities for success.





·        Individualism: The belief that individuals are in control of their own destinies and can achieve self-sufficiency and independence through their own initiative (https:study.com, 2025).





Aspirations of the American Dream





·        The promise of opportunity: Anyone can achieve success through sacrifice, risk-taking, and hard work.





·        Upward social mobility: The change for individuals to attain a better life than their parents.





·        A “democracy of goods”: The notion that everyone should have access to material comfort and goods, a vision popularized in the 20th century (https://www.wikipedia.org, 2025).














I now must again explain to my children how racism, at its core, is just wrong in every way. And how the example of the highest position, in our once revered democracy is being dismantled one freedom and one right at a time. And how if someone disagrees with someone’s way of life, you must not fear and/or hate them. I have instructed my children from day one that people and families are unique individually. And just because of their uniqueness, it doesn’t mean that they are wrong. I don’t care about your skin color, religious affiliation, political affiliation, sexual orientation, ethnic background, or gender identity. However, what I don’t like are bullies. And currently we have a bully in power.





I don’t hate no matter how far left or far right you are on the spectrum. But the idea of hating and inciting violence against someone because they are different is not ok. Do I like people like Charlie Kirk? Hell no. Do I think that he deserved to be murdered based on his views, regardless of whether I agreed with him or the fact that he was a racist and a homophobe, never. But when your whole premise of the stage that you voluntarily inject yourself onto is about treating those you disagree with by tearing them down, bad things are bound to happen. And when political views and votes are more important than lives of our citizens and our beautiful immigrants, our tears begin to fall.














When the president of the United States who has 34 felony convictions, and whose best friends were  the vilest child sex trafficker and rapists this country has ever seen, while also having the support of others, it must be discussed and stopped. Jeffery Epstein and Ghislane Maxwell were convicted of some of the most horrible crimes against children. And it has been confirmed that Donald Trump’s name, as well as many others, were also listed in the Epstein files.





As a parent and someone who was also preyed upon by those in power, the only logical decision of our government should be to release the unredacted files and have total transparency. This  shouldn’t be a tall order. I see a lot of people online who voted for Donald talking about how evil Jefferey Epstein was. And how pedophiles should be held accountable, unless you talk about the high probability that Donald Trump is also connected to said crimes.





I have never seen so many lies and an obvious cover up by the United States government in my life. I don’t care whose names, whether they be democrats, republicans, independents or royalty, are on the list. They should all be held accountable. And for some of us, whose perpetrators were never held accountable, this is a national symbol of that fight for justice. And just maybe the bad guys get caught in the end and have to pay for their actions that have ruined upwards of a thousand children’s lives.





When you are forced into something as horrific as sexual abuse, your life is forever changed. You will never view the world as “safe” again. You will never look at the average person the same again. And the most intimate part of a person’s life and body are forever damaged. The lies and manipulation that one has to possess to accomplish these acts are more than I can comprehend.














It is my hope and prayer that whoever has taken part in actions consistent with pedophilia, rape and/or the coverup of these crimes will see the day when they are forced to be accountable for everything that they have turned a “blind  eye” to. I shouldn’t have to explain why blatant actions have been and continue to be ignored. I shouldn’t have to explain how and why our, once thriving and beautifully diverse country has systematically been sent down the tubes. And is also being controlled by a Russian dictator who is training our orange, “want to be dictator” in the ways of murdering democracy.





My children shouldn’t have to witness and be explained the purpose of “Alligator Alcatraz.” And how funny it is to the hard core “Triple Trumpers” MAGA movement. The only thing consistent are lies, deceit and the many times of the crashing of Grindr by down low politicians. Who are angry because they are scared of authenticity. I shouldn’t have to explain why our country is ok with standing by someone like Benjamin Netanyahu and watching as the genocide in Gaza continues. I shouldn’t have to explain why Vladamir Putin is allowed to continue with the horrific attacks on the people of Ukraine. I shouldn’t have to explain why a dictator across the pond poisons those that don’t agree with them. But here we are.





What I do have to explain are the constant sacrifices of our military service members, who many have laid down their lives for generations, in an effort to make sure that we retain those inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And how and why the Declaration of Independence and our Constitution was formed. Even though the president of our country clearly knows nothing about said rights which was caught on camera many times. Why “No Kings Day” protests are so important. And how our once love for the “freedom of speech” is being allowed to now be censored.














With tears in my eyes, again, I write this. And the grief of my soul as I watch the sometimes-comical players in this mockery of a democratic government, keeps me up at night. And a lot of times, I laugh to keep from crying. But the videos of children and adults being starved to death is not something that we are accustomed to witnessing. I don’t believe that those who take away the rights of others should have rights of their own.





The tensions in this country of the blatant abuse of power by turning the military on our citizens is uncalled for and scary. And the depths of these fears, I do my best to shield my children from seeing. But they are not dumb. They ask questions and I try to explain them on an age-appropriate level.





I enjoy watching and posting the satire of some of these views. But make no mistake, I will constantly keep at the forefront of our conversations about the importance of such figures in the civil rights movement,  Nazi Germany, the extermination of the Jews in concentration camps and the importance of the Stonewall riots. And now, I must explain to them modern day concentration camps disguised as being something “good” for the American public.





People, life as we knew it is disappearing at a rapid rate. It is time for us as Americans to grow a spine and make a peaceful stand against tyranny. And this means doing “your part” in whatever way that looks. No longer is it ok to remain “neutral” as “neutrality” is now a vote for tyranny. You can make a choice to be red, blue or any color of the rainbow. And remember that staying neutral is also a choice. Our country is a collection of diverse groups of people, races, ethnicities, and religions creating One America. The colors that matter the most are the ones who are red, white, and blue.





Thanks for reading! And I hope that you, not only as an American, will stand up for what’s right instead of staying silent to what’s wrong. To our allies across the pond and abroad, your voices also matter. And I personally thank each and every one of you for not allowing the Epstein scandal to  go unnoticed. Keep standing for freedom my fellow Americans as will I. And to our diligent immigrants, I will continue to do my part to fight for your right to live the American Dream that most of us took for granted. Thanks for your attention to this matter.





Affirmation: I embrace the opportunities and freedoms in the United States to build the life I deserve.





 ***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife
























	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			 darnold1975 		


		
Types of Domestic Violence
	


	

		

“If you aren’t silent about your pain, they’ll kill you and say you enjoyed it.”





-Zora Neale Hurston





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about some of the behaviors that fit under the umbrella of domestic violence. It wasn’t until I  was out of the relationship for a while before I began to see  information validating  what I always knew. This is not comprehensive list by any means. 





COERCIVE CONTROL OR CONTROLLING BEHAVIOR





·        Control who a person sees, wears and where they go. 





v  This was considered normal in my relationship. He dictated everything that I wore. If I chose what I wanted to wear, he would tell me to,  “go change. You look ridiculous.” And I was afraid to go somewhere without asking his permission.





·        Monitor or track what a person does. 





v  This was also something that was done on a daily  basis. He would call me wherever I was supposed to be and verify it by employees.





·        Control a person’s finances, medicine, food, or exercise.





v  He always told me that I was not allowed food that he didn’t approve. And I was required to be at the gym at 5:30 am every morning. And he would call and speak with those employees about what type of exercise I was doing. I was also not allowed to spend any money without permission.





·        Force someone to have sex or do sexual things.





v  I was never given the option to make that choice. I was threatened if I even spoke about that.














PHYSICAL VIOLENCE





·        Hitting, punching, kicking, bashing, shoving, or pushing.





      This happened more times than I can count. He did kick me in the face. But when he and his brother teamed up together, it was worse. The main reason is because my husband didn’t want to say that he participated. And because they always threatened and intimidated me into silence, I never said anything. His brother was his “yes man.” And my husband pulled the strings. 





·        Spitting on someone or pulling hair.





·        Choking or suffocating.





v  This typically happened during forced sex. Or whenever his brother would get mad at me, he would choke me as a form of intimidation.





·        Throwing things at or near someone.





·        Using a weapon.





v  This was always pointed at me or laid out somewhere as a form of threats and intimidation.





·        Locking someone in or out of space.





v  This was often done to show control.





·        Stopping someone from eating, sleeping, or having medication they need.





v  Every piece of food had to be given an account. One of his favorite things he would allow me to have for a snack was ten olives and ten pistachios. He would come home from work and completely berate me if I weren’t already up. And it didn’t matter that I had just worked a 24-48 shift. He always told me that medication was a crutch. He got mad because I had been given muscle relaxers for a hurt back and proceeded to kick me in the face and throw my medication out into the rain. I was also not allowed to take any psychiatric meds for depression or mood stabilization because, “why do you need anti-depressants when I’m so good to you? And what if someone finds out that you’re taking this? I don’t want anyone knowing that my wife is crazy. Then it makes me look bad. Why don’t you care about that?”





·        Forcing someone to drink or take drugs.





v  I did this on my own to help deal with being under his crazy world of control.














SEXUAL VIOLENCE





·       Touching or kissing someone without their consent.





v I was made to accept his advances. 





·       Pressuring or forcing someone to have sex or do something sexual without their consent.





v  I was told, “Either you give it to me, or I’ll take it. Either way, I’m getting what I want. Make your decision.” Many times, I was bruised or bleeding by the time he was done with me. I had no voice in any matter. He was the “warden,” and I was his “prisoner.” My whole sexual relationship with him was simply RAPE.





·       Pressuring or forcing someone to have sex without protection such as a condom.





v I was told early on, “I’m not using protection because it burns my dick. If you really loved me, you wouldn’t  put stipulations on how I fuck you.”





*I know this is explicit. However, I want you to get an accurate description of the situation.*














IMAGE-BASED ABUSE





·        Sharing private images of a person without their consent, for example images of them undressing or showering.





·        Sharing culturally inappropriate images of a person, for example images in which they do not wear items of clothing that they would normally wear in public.





·        Sharing intimate or sexualized images of a person without their consent.





·        Producing and sharing images that have been digitally altered to suggest a person is nude or engaged in sexual activity.





·        Threatening to do any of these things.





        *I found out later on that his brother would secretly be filming or watching us having sex.*














EMOTIONAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE





·        Criticizing a person and their choices or actions.





v  In his mind, he thought that I was too stupid to make decisions that were considered “correct.” All he ever told me what how stupid and retarded I was.





·        Isolating a person form their friends or their family.





v  Some friendships I lost forever because they just thought that I abandoned them. What they failed to see was that I would get accused of all kinds of stuff if I disobeyed him. Those who have never been in an abusive situation can’t comprehend losing your power to stand up for yourself. It was just easier to do what he said. Some former friends haven’t even talked to me since that time. And that is about them not me.





·        Threatening to harm a person, their family, their friends, their pets, or their belongings.





v  He always made threats about things he would and could do with keepsakes or my innocent animals. And if he and his brother didn’t feel that I was getting the picture, they would show up at my parents’ house and start harassing them.














·        Threating them to share personal or private information, such as sexuality, gender identity, personal health, or visa status (https://www.act.gov.au/community/domestic-family-and-sexual-violence/types-of-domestic-and-family-violence, 2025).





This topic will be spread over a few blogs. As you can see, when I add personal experience, the blog gets much longer. Stay patient and learn from this. It’s a hell that most people can’t understand. And I’m telling you that it’s all true. I was living in a prison without visible bars. Thanks for reading! And watch for the second part in the coming days.





Affirmation: I remember that it is ok to ask for help and receive support.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife



















	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			 darnold1975 		


		
Domestic Violence Myths
	


	

		

“Leaving is so hard because your confidence is destroyed. You feel trapped.”





-Unknown





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about some common misconceptions about domestic violence. Sit tight. These myths and truths will help to dispel some of the things that you might have been told.





1.        Myth: Domestic abuse is a “family matter” and the community should not interfere.





Fact: Domestic abuse is against the law making it everyone’s business.





2.        Myth: Domestic abuse affects only a small percentage of the population.





Fact: One-third of American women report being physically or sexually abused by a partner.





3.        Myth: Only men abuse women.





Fact: Statistics show that 85% of domestic abuse victims are women and 95% of perpetrators are men. However, men are abused by women also. And the rate of  Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender communities are at the same rate as heterosexual relationships.





4.        Myth: Only low-income families and minorities experience domestic abuse.





Fact: Domestic abuse in every area of society. Most previously recorded statistics are skewed due to the numbers coming from public agencies, city hospitals, police departments, social service agencies, and the courts.





5.        Myth: Abusers are violent in all their relationships.





Fact: Most abusers are only abusive to a targeted intimate partner. Some abusers are successful in their professions and are very charming. And this is how they maintain power and control. This was how my ex-husband introduced himself. In front of people, he appealed to many. It was once we were not in front of people that the abuse occurred.





6.        Myth: Domestic abuse is caused by mental illness.





Fact: Personality disorders, mental illness, poor impulse control, and generational abuse do not cause domestic abuse. Even in cases where a particular mental illness may cause a person to be abusive, the abuse is not specifically targeted at one person but to everyone around during the episode.





7.        Myth: Domestic abuse is caused by drugs and alcohol use.





Fact: Where drugs and alcohol are often associated with domestic abuse, they do not cause the violence. My ex-husband never used drugs and alcohol. He was just mean and very controlling.





8.        Myth: Abusers are violent because they cannot control their anger and frustration.





Fact: Abusers use anger as an excuse to rationalize or blame their abusive behavior: anger is not a cause of abuse; it is a conscious choice made by them. I was always told that “I was the cause of his anger.” So, in some way, I was made responsible for his behavior. When in actuality, he is responsible for his own behavior.










9.        Myth: Therapy will stop the violence. If he/she goes to therapy, it will be safe at home.





Fact: Referral of a batter to is one of the strongest predictors that a victim will return to violence. However, research on the effectiveness of treatment  for batters are inconclusive. What is known is that there’s a 50% drop out rate in these programs by those who do enroll.





10.   Myth: Boys in violent homes will grow up to be battered and girls will be victims.





Fact: Not all children who grow up in homes where there is domestic abuse are directly abused or grow up to  become victims or abusers. It is important to note that children from homes where domestic violence abuse occurs are at greater risk for all of these outcomes than children from homes where  there is no violence.





11.   Myth: Even if he/she is violent, it is better for the children to have both parents. Children aren’t negatively affected by domestic abuse unless they are actually abused.





Fact: Witnessing violence as a child is associated with adult reports of depression, trauma-related symptoms and low self-esteem among women, and trauma-related symptoms among men. Child witnesses of domestic abuse on average exhibit more aggressive and antisocial behaviors, fearful and inhibited behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, temperament problems, and lower social competence, than children who do not witness such violence. Youth who witness domestic abuse are more likely to attempt suicide, abuse drugs, and alcohol, run away from home, commit other delinquent behavior, engage in teenage prostitution, and commit sexual assault crimes (https://law.arizona.edu/sites/default/files/myths_and_realities_of_domestic_abuse.pdf, 2003).





I hope that you’ve been able to put some of these myths to rest. From someone who has gone through domestic violence, my perpetrator never though that he was doing anything wrong. And when I presented the need for therapy I was told, “I don’t need to go to therapy because you are the problem.” When the actual problem was that he didn’t want to look at the reality of his own actions and behaviors. And he continues to be that way. Keep reading and stay safe!





Affirmation: I forgive myself for believing I have to stay in the relationship until the person changes.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife



















	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			 darnold1975 		


		
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
	


	

		

“Never stop fighting for your freedom, you are worth it.”





-DA Survivor-Anon





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negativity energy, go away. Today is the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month is when our voices from all over the globe will be heard. We as victims, survivors and warriors bring to light the horrors of domestic violence and the impact that it leaves on our lives and those around us. Let’s take time out for a little education on a few of the topics surrounding domestic violence.





Domestic Violence is a topic that I know a lot about. Well, I know how to function in it. And I know how to get away from it. But living with the aftereffects reveal a whole other set of problems. Where domestic violence used to be seen as something that only happens to women and their partners. There is more awareness on the abuse of men by their partners. No matter how you identify. It also happens to the most innocent, children and pets. This happens in all forms of relationships. And the statistics are staggering.










Domestic violence is violence committed by someone in the victim’s domestic circle. Which include partners and ex-partners, immediate family members, and other relatives and family friends (https://www.UN.org, 2025). The behaviors can include such things as:





·        Physical





·        Sexual





·        Emotional





·        Financial





·        Psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person.





This includes any behavior that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone. The repetitive exposure to violence teaches children that violence is a normal way of life (https://dvcc.delaware.gov, 2025). And for those of us who leave, constant confusion and every minute of no knowing when something else will happen again, is our normal. And the many years of programming by our abusers takes years of therapy to de-program ourselves. But you will never be who you used to be.














Recovery is not for the faint of heart. It is hard and uncomfortable. And it takes years to undo the damage that was caused on so many levels. I was one of the lucky ones. Long story short, I survived. But the mental damage that was caused has left me crippled in some ways. And through the sleepless nights filled with tears, therapy, psychiatric medications, body memories, flashbacks, phobias, and panic attacks, I have learned that I have a voice that deserves to be heard. And no matter what people say or believe, I can validate my own story regardless of the opinions of others. Because I lived it. 





The main thing I want to say to other women and men across the globe who are still in their own processes, “YOU ARE NOT ALONE!” Because it happened to me too. Thanks for reading! Keep smiling and pushing forward.





Affirmation: My light shines even in the dark.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife



















	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			Featured darnold1975 		


		
Budtender Moment: Purple Cookies Strain Review
	


	

		

“Weed is from the earth. God put this here for me and you. Take advantage, man, take advantage.”





-Smokey (Chris Tucker), Friday





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. With part of the awareness colors for suicide awareness being purple, you know I had to represent with a purple strain. Sit back for a few minutes and allow me to educate you on this little beauty.





Purple Cookies is a 50/50 hybrid. It’s a cross between Cookie F2 x Purple Caper. You initially get that “hazy” strain taste which is also very earthy. And I’ll be honest; I had to smoke almost an entire bowl before I felt anything. Part of that could be that I smoke very heavy indicas to manage my medical needs. 










Patients report relief from stress, anxiety and depression. It’s also used to help with chronic pain, insomnia and muscle  spasms. I can tell you that I have a lot of the same issues. This strain didn’t do much for me in regard to chronic pain or insomnia. And that’s probably due to the sativa half of the hybrid.





The main terpene is myrcene. And it’s a strain that would be perfect for inexperienced users. You won’t get “couch lock.” And it would be perfect to use it during a lunch break. Overall, it’s not strong, but I can’t say that it’s bad medicine. It could be perfect for your individual needs. Thanks for reading! And keep blazing!





Affirmation: I won’t share blunts with people who won’t share roaches with me.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife










	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			Featured darnold1975 		


		
Tink And The Rubber Band
	


	

		

“Cat fact: Once you own a cat the probability that you bring up cats in conversation increases by 200%.”





-@mickeyandmort





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to share a short story that I wrote a few years ago. It involves my cat Tinkerbell. Sometimes you just have to take time out to thank the universe for giving things a second chance. This was one of those times.





One night I visited my parents who live no more than 60 ft from my house. I stayed over there for maybe an hour and came back home. My cats never miss a chance to greet me at the door like I’ve just returned from a 21-day furlough in Denton, TX. And they meow like they haven’t been fed the entire time. They do this because when I go to the store to pick up my groceries, I always bring back a snack for them. Therefore, every time I leave and come back that means that they have a new treat. (Yes, I have created this situation, and I hate myself for doing it.) but after ignoring their cat woes they will eventually settle down and find a place to sleep or breakout in an all-out sprinting and body slamming each other which is another little love language behavior. Not paying attention to anything but the movie, I look and see Coco beginning to settle down in her rocking chair. Tink was quiet and out of view. This means the same thing as it does for a toddler, trouble.














I get up and start looking for her. Then I heard what can make me sit straight up in the middle of the night, the sound of a cat vomiting. I flip the light on in the kitchen and realize that Tink has her back to me. The closer my hand gets, her growl lets me be aware that she is trying to hide something from me. Again, I can see that she’s chewing on something and gagging even more. I decided to go in even if I need a rabies shot soon after. I go in for the kill and stick my hand into the dark bracing myself for her angry bite. And I feel something that is not her and yank quickly. All I can do is shake my head. She was trying to swallow a rubber band. She darts out quickly. I angrily shout, “Dammit Tink you could’ve died!!!!” She scurries under the bed and out of sight. I take a deep breath knowing how lucky my sweet, crazy girl was in this situation. I clean the mess off the floor. I take another deep breath. And turn the light off. I look for her frantically to find her sound asleep on the bed and I whisper, “Thank you, Universe.”





Thanks for reading! Never forget to thank the universe for the little gifts that it blesses you with. Keep smiling! 





Affirmation: I have the power to get in trouble for no good reason.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife



















	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			Featured darnold1975 		


		
Tink and Coco’s Hide-And-Seek Troubles
	


	

		

“Cats choose us; we don’t own them.”





-PC Cast and Kristin Cast





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. I know lately I’ve been storming the door with some hot topics. So, I thought that I would take time out to talk to you about some of my cat parenting woes. Tink and Coco are my girls, and I love them dearly. But one thing I have come to notice is how they suck at playing the game “Hide-and-Seek.”  I had finally reached the end of my rope while suffering in silence over this. And I had to just breakdown and get a “Hide-and-Seek” tutor. Do you know how difficult they are to find?! 





When I’m finally brave enough to ask a tween to help explain the concept to my children in a way that they can understand, I have to face my fears and tell them that my children that have the issues are not “technically” human children. They are my cats. They begin laughing hysterically. Not the cats. Coco and Tink are horribly embarrassed and are not grateful for my efforts. The child that has empathy for our situation prefers to remain anonymous.





Ok, I’m going out on a limb, while swallowing my pride, to show you the reasons why I had to get a tutor for my cats. Below are a few examples.



















Tink: Psst! guess who?





Coco: Tink you have to put your ears down dummy.





Tink: you big idiot! You just gave away my hiding place!!!! Ugh!!! She wouldn’t have noticed!! I hope you get a dingleberry the size of a tennis ball!!!!





























I understand that their recovery is “a marathon, not a sprint.” And I ask for your prayers for the three of us as we continue to work as a family, to continually face our fears to help Tink and Coco with their deficits in playing a simple game that is shared and played throughout all cultures and regions of the world. And how one day we can bring awareness to other cat families about how we can learn to live unaggressive and how to enjoy “family time” comfortably again in the near future. Thanks for your support as we struggle!





Affirmation: I am perfect enough.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





#Thispuzzledlife 










	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			Featured darnold1975 		


		
What Are The Streets Saying? Salvia Divinorum
	


	

		

“I never experienced anything in its natural state that was as shocking as salvia divinorum.”





-Jim Woodring





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk about a product that I tried many years ago, Salvia Divinorum. It was a legal hallucinogenic that I only used a couple of times. I’ve always been a willing participant at using substances. But when I smoked Salvia for the first time, it only happened two or three more times, because I got more than I had bargained for. Sit tight while I explain this substance and its effects.





Salvia Divinorum is a plant that is in the sage family and is harvested for its psychoactive substances. It is native to Southwest Mexico. Names given for the plant are “maria pastora”, “seer’s sage”, “yerba de la pastora” or “magic mint.” The active ingredient is salvinorin A. And it is considered a structurally unique diterpenoid and is a potent k-opioid agonist. The effects come on very rapidly and quickly dissipate. Historically, it’s been used by shamans in spiritual healing ceremonies. It can induce a dissociative state or hallucinations. 





Ok. Yes, I have tried salvia several times and I can tell you that it was the worst hallucinogenic experience that I have ever had. I actually tried it when I spotted it in a head shop in Florida in about 2008. However, in 2007 reports on the internet began showing  videos of teens using the drug which, in one case, led to suicide.














Mel and I took it back to the motel where we were staying. The employee had told me that whatever I do, do not freak out. Maybe that should’ve been my first clue that this wouldn’t turn out good. But in typical “Dana” fashion, I got excited as I plan to take a big rip like do when smoking weed. The taste of the smoke is horrible. But I was literally excited because I was about to try a “legal” hallucinogenic. I used acid several times in high school. But salvia, is another kind of monster.





I got my pipe filled and ready to go. I took a small toke to begin with just to taste it. . I think it would’ve tasted better had I grabbed a tootsie roll from the litter box and smoked it. I remember saying, “These tastes horrible but it’s doing nothing.” Remember, the blog about cannabis edibles? And how my downfall was making that statement prematurely. Well, the same thing happened with salvia. 





I rared back and planned my choking strategy as I take a “man size” hit. I choked my ass of and said, “I’m so disappointed. This is a waste of…….Oh shit! Oh shit! AHHHHH!” Mel said, “What’s wrong?” I said, “I puked on that guy at the party!” She said, “Dana, what are you talking about? You have not been to a party.” I also said something about seeing frogs coming out of the wall. She kept telling me, “It won’t last long. Just stay put and wait for the effects to stop.” I did and I made it through the experience. There is absolutely no way that I could’ve driven a car. And I can promise you that I have a history of driving impaired in my much younger days. It was not a pleasant experience. The hallucinogenic effects were not like those of LSD. It was much worse. 














I can totally see why it’s not a substance with abuse. There is no way that people can use that and get addicted to it. That plant needs one thing. Not fire but Roundup! I tried it a couple of more times just to see if maybe it was something that’s an acquired taste in some way. Uh-no I never acquired anything. It was just as bad as the first time. So, I never used it again.





In the United States, an amendment recommending Salvia Divinorum as Schedule 1 at the federal level was proposed in 2002. But it did not pass. Opposition to the proposed bill was argued that medicinal research could not be done for potential medical benefits. Even though it’s not regulated under the Controlled Substances Act it has been made illegal in thirteen states. And countries all over the world have varying legislation as well. 





I my opinion, Salvia Divinorum, should be illegal. This is not a safe plant that can be used by teens or irresponsible adults. If someone tried to drive while on this substance, they could kill someone. If you have ever been curious about the substance, you aren’t missing anything pleasant. It’s much safer to smoke weed instead.





I hope that I have provided you with some useful information about this plant. Whatever you do, discourage use of this product if anyone tells you that they use it. Most people who try it won’t try it again. So, I don’t worry about the potential abuse. Stay safe. Stay informed. And keep reading!





Affirmation: I am learning from this mistake and growing stronger.





***Don’t forget to watch the video***





#Thispuzzledlife










	




			
				


	
			
					
	

	

		

			Featured darnold1975 		


		
Budtender Moment: Fire OG Strain Review
	


	

		

“Alcohol kills. Weed chills.”





-Unknown





 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. This month I have been trying to review strains that represent the month of August in the South. If you’ve ever been to the south in August, it’s like walking outside and Satan farting in your face. And Fire OG was a must have just for the name. 





Fire OG is an indica-dominant hybrid strain at 70%/30%. You know immediately that this one is another “stinker.” It comes from a lengthy line of OG Kush genetics. That strain is legendary for the gassy, heavy hitting aromas and effects. The genetics are OG Kush x SFV (San Fernando Valley) OG Kush. And I hear that this strain is regarded as the most powerful of the OG Kush family. I have to say that on inhale the strain tastes real “hazy.” That is like mold or mildew taste. Nothing is wrong with the flower. It’s just how genetics come together with these plants sometimes.










The initial aroma is very gassy and pungent. There is a short burst of energy before the genetics gently lean you back on the couch and to remain there until notified again. And when it happens you try to defy science, and you stand up to walk. Only now, you feel like you are trying to walk in metal buckets covered with concrete. And once it finally begins to wear off, and you awaken from a cannabis nap, get the Cheetos and the Cheetos’s cousins and eat them all. This strain causes the “atomic munchy phenomenon” to occur. It’s a great strain to help with chronic pain, stress, mild to moderate depression, arthritis, loss of appetite, migraines, nausea, PTSD, sleep disorders including insomnia and night terrors.












 The major terpenes in this strain are: myrcene, limonene and caryophyllene. Don’t worry that limonene is only a splash of sativa mainly in aroma and taste. This strain is a very heavy indica that  “FIRE OG” warns you about with its name. This is a fabulous strain if you can ignore the initial inhale on a green bowl. It’s very potent and is not a good strain for newbs. Use in moderation so that you don’t overdo the experience. Definitely one that I’ll keep in my medicine cabinet. Just the OG lineage is like having a celebrity spending time with me. Thanks for reading! Keep smiling. Stay safe. And keep BLAZIN’!





Affirmation: Full bowls. Clean bongs. Can’t lose.





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And Then There Was Piper
	


	

		

“Kittens are angels with whiskers.”





-Alexis Flora Hope





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Today is a special day because I brought this beautiful little girl into our family. She is the epitome of being a survivor.





I had been wanting a new kitten for over a year. And I always thought that the name Onyx would be a great name for a black cat. I looked locally and the black kittens were either feral, no veterinary care or too expensive. But then I saw the story about this litter. And I just could not seem to put it out of my mind.










The story goes like this…Someone left a litter of  kittens in a concrete parking lot in a metal cage. And there were two little ones that were hanging on for dear life. I know. I want to find those people and set them on fire too. People are just a special kind of evil for doing things like that. A lady saw them as she pulled up to the store and rescued them. And went to get veterinary care. She and her family also hand fed and spent countless hours and emotions making sure those two babies made it. A month later, I my heart told me, “That little girl is the one.”





Me and the owners talked, and I realized what this special little kitten would be for me. I met up with one of the owners at a neutral place. I got the kitten’s tiny little body out of her crate while she meowed. And I melted and then lost my breath all at once. That little girl melted my heart once I saw her. I lost my breath not from her beauty but from her tiny little “murder mittens” that reached out for safety and grabbed my boob. I felt like I had just been stabbed and was clinging to life. I’m pretty sure I dissociated too. I really hope the fear in my face and the gasp from my throat wasn’t noticed.










To keep from trying to make her a black cat when she is not, I have changed her name to Piper. And from what I can tell, the name suits her simply fine. We need each other. Her sisters Tink and Coco are not grateful for her arrival currently. I am guessing that it is because neither of them wanted to share lap space or cookies. I talked to them like toddlers saying, “We do not hiss and try to bite our friends. She is a kitten. Not a crocodile. And she is your sister.” They did not seem to care about the rationale. And they continue to hiss and sulk.





I am now at my “cat limit.” Me and my girls know how to do two things, “We know how to adapt to change and love.” We do not always do it with a smile on our faces and with love in our hearts. But little Piper is just what the three of us needed to complete our family unit. 





Big brothers, Marshall and Copeland, will give her “a run for her money.” But they will no doubt love her too. She already speaks English and is sassy and mouthy just like her sisters. Stay tuned for more interactions with my three amigos. Welcome Home, Piper! 





Thanks for reading! And Please Spay and Neuter Your Pets!





Affirmation: I am getting to know my new family.





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We Love Our Allies
	


	

		

“An ally is someone who stands up even when they feel they can’t.”





-Unknown





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. As Pride month begins to wrap up, I want to talk to you about a group of people that many of us LGBTQ+ people draw strength from. It’s our allies! This group of people are usually straight. But they stand up for different issues within the gay community that continually marginalize us. They are voices that stand up and say, “I’m straight. But your discrimination and hate is wrong.”





Our allies who are sometimes known as “fruit flies,” bring strength to our battles with equality. And they also love us for who we are versus many of our families who love us for “who they want us to be.” I will be the first to say that there are zero gay affirming people in my family. No matter who agrees or doesn’t agree, the gay person is here to stay. And I gladly wear the title of the “rainbow sheep” in the family.





There are those still who say, “We love you for who you are.” But they stand against equality and continue with their homophobic or transphobic comments. That, my friends, is not an ally. You just know someone who is gay. You cannot say that you’re ok with me being a lesbian and then speak out about how my transgender friends are wrong or abnormal. That’s hypocritical. You don’t have to be gay or trans to be active and say, “Equality should be for all and not just one gender or sexual orientation.”





Our transgender brothers and sisters need our support in the fight for their rights to be who and what they want to be. To be able to fight for our country on the frontlines for freedom. And to be able to use any damn toilet that matches the gender in which they identify. They do not want to harm you or your children. Individuals who have or are transitioning do not want to rip your genitalia off or steal whatever small amount of virginity you may have left. They simply want to empty their bladder and bowels.










 I had a friend that I had a close relationship with one time. But when I came out to her, our friendship ended. That is what I call a conditional friend. As long as I was who they wanted me to be everything was ok. But when I told them who I really was, that was not acceptable. It is truly their problem and not mine. That is not an ally. That is an asshole. I know they both start with the letter “A,” and it can be confusing to some.





People have a misconception that anyone under the LGBTQ+ umbrella has an insatiable sexual appetite. And that we are lurking around to force straight people into gay submission. If I know that someone is straight, I will not cross the line by trying to seduce them. It’s call mutual respect. I know that there are creepy people that do that and are ok with that. I would simply call “bullshit” and tell them that it’s very disrespectful. But I know even more straight people who want to pound the gay out of us. It would be like someone forcing me to be straight. And I barf in my mouth just a little at the thought of ever having to pretend that I’m straight again. If someone who is gay comes on to you, simply tell them that you’re straight. Most of the time that is respected. And sometimes is just a faulty “GAYDAR.”





As a lesbian, the misconception that we want to run in and turn straight women gay is an absolutely ridiculous argument. And this is where our allies come into play. They not only love us for our authenticity, but they are also on the front lines of the pride banner to speak up against hate even when we are not around. Allies are another source of strength that can only be found within them. And for this, I am eternally grateful. Beautiful friendships and family relationships can be mended by being an ally. 





In my family there are those who when discussing someone who is gay, they spell it. Like “Yea, I collaborate with this guy, and he is G-A-Y!” Let me help put your minds at ease, “You cannot catch the gay from saying someone is gay.”  So, making the statement, “I love you because you’re my child or my family member.” Then to counter with, “Hate the sin, love the sinner” asserts that you hold yourself to a higher level because you know God better than he knows himself. When God actually spoke about loving everyone. And that no one deserves his love any more than the other. Jesus preached about equality and inclusion, not discrimination and hate. And from what I’ve seen in my life, there’s a lot of “cherry picking” of the Bible to satisfy an argument. God’s people are taught to spread his love. But some of them are the very ones who close the church doors when the gay people arrive. And if you are let in there is no shortage of stares and whispers.














If there was ever a group of people who I give the utmost respect, it would be our allies. I have always been one to stand up for the underdog in most situations. And I can promise you that it doesn’t always make me popular in a good way. So, for a “straight ally” to stand up for me and others, you will always be considered members of my Pride family. 





A lot of us LGBTQ+ individuals create families among others, because our families are simply too rich in bigotry and self-righteousness to be considered a “safe place” that nurtures love and growth in a relationship. And I live in a “hotspot” of the country that has a lot of judgement and ignorance. They have simply become a wounding vessel and a very rigid group of people that do not deserve the time nor the energy to continue relationships with them. So, we form close ties and bonds with our allies instead.





I have used this phrase many times and it stems from my own family when I say, “If nothing changes, then nothing changes.”  I have to hold my head high, turn around and walk away like a boss. And I walk right over to my ally’s house where love and acceptance isn’t only spoken, it’s shown. You can love me and stand up for our rights as we do. But you cannot say that you love me and think that neither I nor my friends are entitled to the same rights you have. I absolutely will NOT be a part of that in any way.





Thank you so many allies for everything that you do that we never know about. And thank you for showing us what the love of Christ is all about. Homophobes, transphobes, and the self-righteous thank you for showing me who I never want to be. As always, take what you can use and leave the rest. Keep smiling. Happy Pride Everyone!





Affirmation: I will not shrink myself for the comfort of others.





***Don’t forget to watch the video!***





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			 darnold1975 		


		
Budtender Moment: Spritzer Strain Review
	


	

		

“If we all had a bong, we’d all get along!”





-Unknown





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Okie dokie! Today’s budtender moment is a review on the strain Spritzer. And with a name like that, how could I keep it out of our 2025 Pride lineup? Sit tight for a minute and I’ll fill you in with the information that you need about this strain.





Spritzer is a hybrid strain by crossing Runtz x Grape Pie x MAC. It was very earthy, floral and aroma. This strain is just like the name sounds. It’s like tip toeing through a field of flowers. It truly behaves like a very sativa dominant strain perfect for daytime. I felt little, if any, indica. And it would be a “good introduction to the cannabis world” kind of strain. I just don’t see where it’s possible to ever get couch lock. But I will say that you will have to use it in moderation especially if there are any anxiety issues. It’s a really good one to “wake and bake.”





Grab an eighth of Spritzer and take it with you to a Pride parade and events. Nothing too heavy. With my PTSD, I would have to use a much heavier indica to be able to use in public. It all depends on your personal needs. Thanks for reading! Happy Pride!





Affirmation: I am a productive stoner.





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Most Dangerous Internet Challenges Part 3
	


	

		

“Getting information from the Internet is like taking a drink from a fire hydrant.”





-Mitchell Kapor





Thanks for coming back to read the final blog about the Most Dangerous Internet Challenges. I have saved the most dangerous of all the challenges I’ve talked about until now. That does not mean that I’m being insensitive to the destruction that the previous ones have caused. However, for varied reasons these last four challenges go down as my top for being some of the most dangerous. Let’s continue…





Skull Breaker Challenge





This is a dangerous challenge that first made its mark on Tik Tok in 2020. I’m not saying that the behavior itself has never been conducted before. Because I’m fairly sure that when I was a teen, we did something similar. The participants work as a group of three. One person stands in the middle, while the other two stand on either side. They tell the middle person to jump up and then very swiftly use a sweeping kick so that the middle person falls to the ground and hits their head. Injuries that have been associated with this challenge include concussion, neck, head and spinal injuries. Skull fractures and paralysis are also known to be associated with this challenge. Tik Tok very quickly took down any videos related to the challenge.














Benadryl Challenge





This is a challenge where it involves taking massive amounts of Benadryl in order to get high and hallucinate. Ok, stop for a second. We didn’t even have internet challenges much less this one. Hell, I did this just to escape my own horrible reality. But you can only take so much before the “high” isn’t a really pleasant experience. However, when you don’t have access to money, as a young teen, you go to the next best place, the parents’ medicine cabinet. 





I’m not trying to glorify this. What I am saying is that there are many varied reasons why someone would do something like this. While this can be deadly, I never considered those dangers as a teen. The overconsumption of this medication can lead to confusion, delirium, psychosis, organ damage, hyperthermia, convulsions coma and death. And sadly, there have been children and teens who did not live to see the next internet challenge.














Blackout Challenge





Ok. This one right here has been known to be my poison. The Blackout Challenge also called the “Choking Game” are another one of those things that have thrill seekers mouths watering with anticipation. I had no idea that this had a formal name for behavior until I started seeing this in news reports. The challenge formally began to gain widespread attention on Tik Tok in 2021. It’s a challenge that deprives the brain of oxygen and blocks blood from entering the brain.





Oxygen deprivation of the brain has the potential to cause moderate to severe brain cell death. And because fatalities are often ruled as suicides, it makes the statistics unreliable. I think we all can agree that this can be dangerous. One of the reasons that it’s so popular is because it costs zero dollars to try. As dangerous as it can be, I don’t see this behavior being eradicated. 





My personal beginning with this behavior was born out of a very traumatic situation. And I can tell you that the longer kids get their needs met in this way, the more difficult it is to stop. And just like any type of self-harm that serves a purpose for the individual, the results can be deadly.





I completely understand that not every child looks for some type of emotional need to be met with these behaviors. Either way no one can deny the facts about the statistics showing that it can be deadly. I can admit that this isn’t “brain food” and is still considered very stupid to most people. The main thing is for parents to be aware of the signs that are related to this behavior which include discussion of the game, bloodshot eyes, marks on the neck, severe headaches, disorientation after spending time alone, ropes, scarves and belts tied to bedroom furniture or doorknobs or knotted on the floor and unexplained presence of things like dog leashes, choke collars and bungee cords.























Blue Whale Challenge





The Blue Whale Challenge is one that I consider to be very insidious. If you’ve read my recent blog about the online predatory group 764, this is one that’s eerily reminiscent. It was an online social phenomenon in 2016 that began in Russia and claimed to exist in many countries. The game consists of a series of tasks to players over a 50-day period. 





In its start, the creator who was a former Russian psychology student, got expelled from the university. He said that he originally created the game in 2013 in order to “clean society of biological wastes.” The tasks begin with things like “get up at 4:30 am”  or “watch a horror movie” before moving into self-harm. And the end of the game involves committing suicide. The administrators were found to be children aged between 12 and 14 years of age. 





In June 2018, Russian financial analyst, Nikita Nearonov was arrested for masterminding the game. Nearonov is suspected of grooming ten underage girls in order for them to commit suicide. The game has been reported to be banned in countries including Egypt, Kenya and Pakistan. However, experts agree that it’s almost impossible to ban the game.























I hope this series has been informative on some of the dangerous internet challenges. For all the ones that have diminished, there are new challenges in ten-fold waiting to take their place. Remembering how naïve I was as a teen helps me to realize that had the internet been as big then as it is now, I would’ve surely gotten hurt at the very least. I was incredibly impulsive and searching for something to distract me from life as it was. Thanks for reading! 





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			 darnold1975 		


		
Most Dangerous Internet Challenges
	


	

		

“The internet is a dangerous place. If you are not careful it will consume you and rob you of your happiness.”





-Germany Kent





Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today I want to talk about something that continues to make its mark while constantly evolving. Internet/Social Media Challenges can be fun and inspiring. However, there are challenges that are dangerous and even fatal. I can’t cover them all. I can, however, bring into focus several of the dangerous challenges that have circulated the internet. I cannot fit all these on one blog so this will be a series. Some of the videos I have posted are probably over exaggerated and make for some good laughs. For those who have suffered injuries and death, the humor of the videos quickly disappears.














First of all, I want us to look back at when internet challenges first began. The earliest examples that I can find begin around 2001 with the debut of the Cinnamon Challenge and the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. The Cinnamon challenge was a video of someone trying to eat a spoonful of dry cinnamon in under 60 seconds which went viral. Cellulose fibers in cinnamon are considered responsible for triggering allergic hypersensitivity reactions which make for an extremely uncomfortable experience. The chemical coumarin which is found in cinnamon is moderately toxic to both the liver and kidneys if taken in large quantities. This challenge peaked on YouTube in January 2012. Twitter reported that at its peak the videos reached around 70,000 per day. 





The challenge came with dangers that were ignored by its impulsive teens which included: Lung infections, Choking, Gagging, Burning, Itching, Allergic reactions, Vomiting, Pneumonia, Inflammation and scarring of lungs, Collapsed lungs














The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge was not considered dangerous, mostly due to raising money for ALS research. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge was seen as safe because it raised funds for ALS research. And gained notoriety on the coat tails of rising platforms  like YouTube, Twitter and Instagram. However, any type of action that is done without knowing the possible risks involved can have some damaging effects. And teens don’t weigh the consequences. They just act and hope for the best. I can honestly say that I speak from personal experience and include myself.





Planking





Planking itself is not dangerous because you are trying to mimic a piece of wood. However, when the challenge escalates to dangerous or risky behaviors such as on top of dangerous animals, or on top of a chimney can make this seemingly safe activity dangerous.














Hot Pepper Challenge





This is one of those challenges that I was never curious about trying. Capsaicinoids is a class of compounds  that make pepper taste hot. Over time a rating scale based on the amount of heat in a product are measured in Scoville units. The level of heat that’s in a bell pepper is my level of heat tolerance at an amazing 0 Scoville units. And when I want to go all rogue on the spicy side of life, I will venture into common black pepper.





 We all know people that can tolerate spicy foods. And these people leave me flabbergasted at their tolerance. I would rather have my toenails pulled off with pliers than have to eat something spicy. But there are times when we deal with the spice in order to eat the food we like, crawfish. I am the big baby at the table that will be wiping snot and complaining about the heat.





The Hot Pepper Challenge, to me, is absolutely ridiculous. Call me whatever you want. I can’t stand getting burned in any way. I am the biggest whiny ass when I get sunburned so hot peppers can “suck it” in my world. A quick internet search about the Scoville unit level that is considered dangerous is not listed. However, anything around the  1 million Scoville units can cause significant discomfort. One million Scoville units, for example, is like the Ghost Pepper. To put this into perspective, the jalapeno pepper ranges from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Units.





In extreme “super-hot” peppers in this category have been known to cause potentially dangerous side effects like vomiting, gagging, passing out or acute stroke. Check out the videos to see how quickly a dare goes to instant regret.




























I hope some of the information you’ve read helps you to understand how potentially dangerous internet challenges are. Unbelievably, it gets even more dangerous. In the next couple of blogs I will talk about the other internet challenges that are much worse on the scale of danger. Thank you for reading! Please pass along this information to friends, family and co-workers to bring awareness. Take what you can use and leave the rest. Subscribe to my blog and never miss another post.





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