Dear Stoner: I am sixty. I first smoked in 1974. I smoke very rarely now, but still (want to) enjoy it. The problem: Everything I try these days is way too strong. Even one hit is too much. I don't get joy; I get panic. It feels almost like tripping, and I am always hung over and fuzzy in the head the next morning. Where can I get good old "pot"? I want to roll a joint, have a few puffs and relax.
Lightweight
Dear Lightweight: Don't feel bad — you're not the first member of your generation I've heard making such comments. Unfortunately, most growers here in Colorado aren't aiming for a low-potency harvest. While there's still plenty of low-grade shwag bud out there (just walk through Civic Center Park), my suggestion would be to track down a few low-THC strains like Harlequin, Cannatonic and Sour Tsunami (weedmaps.com is a good resource). Those three all tend to test out at 10 percent THC or less — much lower than the high teens and low twenties most growers are hoping to get. They also have increased levels of CBD that will help mellow out your buzz and give you the relaxation you're searching for. If you can't manage to find any of those strains around town, you might also consider buying some discounted bud shake or trim. While I assume most people use it for baking foods, I've had a good number of budtenders tell me they sell it to people like you who just don't need the full strength that the flowers offer; it's also about a quarter of the price. The shake might burn slightly harsh and with fewer flavors than the buds would, but the THC content will be much lower. Try more indica-heavy strains if you go this route; that will help you avoid feeling panicked. If none of that works, you can always just take smaller hits.
Dear Stoner:
There's a blood drive coming up at my work and I want to participate. My issue is that I'm a daily puffer, so there's most likely THC in my system. Will they still accept my blood? And can my boss find out about it because of this?
Bloody Mary Jane
Dear Mary: According to the American Red Cross, alcohol and marijuana use don't prevent someone from giving blood. And the local Bonfils Blood Center concurs: Unless you show up visibly impaired, they want your life juice. And all blood-collection results are considered protected, private medical information. In short, you're good to keep puffing the green and pumping the red.
