So you're probably all familiar with the rainbow coloured candy known as Skittles. But do you know where they come from? Surprisingly enough, it all started with a belly button. Douglas Birch is an 18-year-old phenomenon who enjoys mowing the lawn, bird watching and photosynthesis. He also has a tree growing out of him that bears tiny multi-coloured fruit called Skittles. Here is a recent commercial in which Douglas starred:


Now that Tree Boy, I mean, Douglas, is growing up, he has developed a yearning to attend college to study and hang out with his friends while enjoying the Skittles that fall from his branches. But he needs your help. From April 25 until June 30, 2011, Skittles is encouraging Canadians across the country to visit www.freetreeboy.ca to vote for what college program they want Tree Boy to attend when he is free.


Also, when you purchase specially marked packs of Skittles in stores, you can get one of six Freedom Bands to show your support for Tree Boy. It had been a while since I've had Skittles but Tree Boy was so kind to send some my way since they are having a great harvest this year. My favourite flavour would have to be Berry Explosion. But since I have a terrible sweet tooth, I knew I couldn't keep them all to myself. Our school participated in its fourth annual Terry Fox Run (yes, in May!) and raised over $3300. I am super thrilled that we passed the total for last year which was just over $2900. As a token of appreciation and to reward their efforts, one class will be given the loot of Skittles and Freedom Bands that Tree Boy was so kind to share with me. I can't wait to see the look on their faces! I would imagine they will be just as thrilled as Tree Boy once he is set free.

Disclosure: I was sent a variety pack of Skittles product from Tree Boy as a thank-you for supporting his campaign. Any opinions expressed in this post are my own.