My friend came to my house one day and when she showed up she had a tiny baby kitten with her and said she found it on the side of a road by her house . This kitten still had its eyes closed. Well she did not know how to care for such a tiny baby. So I got everything I needed and ended up with the best all black Male cat ever. He lived for 12 yrs and was so friendly.
My mom met someone who had a kitten and couldn't take care of it due to them having surgery on their hand the next week. My mom took the kitten in and knew what she was doing. The kitten died at about a week old after she opened her eyes.
I understand chronic pain, and "invisible" pain. I was also abused, so I understand that too. Keep going, and you'll be able to do it! I believe in you and all the other grains.
Jackie, treat yourself like you would a friend. Why are you so hard on yourself when you are so compassionate with other people? I'm glad you were able to break free from that toxic mentor relationship. What a bully! He lied about the petition thing because he was threatened by you being a better teacher. He did you a favor kicking you out because you are so loyal you would've stayed there that much longer "helping" him. Not surprised the other guys joined in to kick you out of the gym. It is called misogyny. Hope you feel better about your back soon. Don't make any solid decisions on the teacher job yet. In a couple of months you will be that much further into the healing process and will be able to make a more informed decision. Right now use your spoons to heal.
Just now seeing this video and came across your comment. I’m crying sooooo hard right now that I can barely see the keys to type this. I have chronic pain and “people” and “media” makes me feel like I’m such a bad person for being the way I am and having to do what I have to do in order to get through my day just to do whatever my 100% is for that day. It’s like they add mental anguish to my physical pain. I’ve been in the bed for the past 2 days and was feeling so bad about myself for not being able to get things done around the house. Her saying that just released sooooooo much emotional pain in the form of of my tears. (Sorry for such a long message)… anyway, back to crying lol
I had a friend who asked me to take care of his hamsters while he was on a trip. He came back and never asked for the hamsters back. Long time later I was like “dude, the hamsters…” he interrupted me by acting surprised like “oh, I totally forgot about them!” And then I finished my sentence “…are mine now. Well, their offspring, because Yours are dead.”
I brought home the school rat once, when I tried to bring him back I was told he was old and the teacher didn't want him dying in class, so he wanted us to keep him. Jokes on him that rat lived another 5 years, if he really was 5 years old like he said, that rat lived twice the average rat age.
A fun podcast idea with you and Sika would be taking a test on the Enneagram( personality test) and learning about each other desires and to see if its accurate for your guys personalitys.
The Spoonie theory came about after the woman who coined the term was trying to explain how she feels day-to-day, to her friend. She happened to have several spoons nearby, so used them as a visual aid!
It's used in autistic and ADHD communities to express executive dysfunction struggles too! It's a great way to visualize how much you can handle day to day for people who don't totally get it.
The lady was in a cafe with a friend & her friend asked what it was like to have Lupus... So she lifted all the spoons she had sitting nearby & explained her Spoon Theory. It has since become used for alot of chronic health issues. I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia about 14yrs ago & heard about about "Spoons" several years ago from others in a support group. I've since been diagnosed with other autoimmune illnesses along with severe depression & anxiety disorder. If it wasn't for my animals, I wouldnt make it through a single day nevermind all these years. So glad u have ur animals & have a good support system! Keep urself warm, happy & keep giggling (cause some days when the pains are really bad & ya just want to cry, there's always 1 thing that can give u a giggle, especially with animals about ur home! They can do some crazy stuff! Lol! Gentle hugs from Northern Ireland! 🙂
I have encountered the term “spoonie” very recently, in Italy is not a thing, but I started talking with a girl who has Multiple Sclerosis like me, but in the States and she introduced me to the term and in the last months I have been counting my spoons since fatigue hit really hard. Before being diagnosed I was a nurse, after I was feeling really down and my depression and anxiety came back so I decided it wasn’t my path anymore, I started working at an amusement park and 3 years ago I went back to university, I’m studying languages and I want to become a librarian after graduation ‘cause I just love books, not just reading, but books. They saved my life when I was a kid, I was beaten and closed in a wardrobe and I was able to hide books and a torch in there, and I was able to escape reality. I’m very happy you’re doing good and being able to go outside for a walk sometimes can be really helpful! Wish you all the best!
My dad walked outside to take out the trash one day. Next thing I know, he's come into my room, holding a bright yellow parakeet and tells me "it just flew and landed on my shoulder". I attempted to find the owners (posted notices in our neighborhood, posted in an online forum, etc) and told dad "you need to give it at least 2 weeks." Lemondrop got a new cage 2 days later, and got a friend named Blueberry 2 weeks later.
if you enjoy teaching, you could do workshops. You've got enough of a following that you could do that once your back is better. Or, perhaps tutoring. Much love to you, girl!
My mom (80) wanted a puppy so badly for years. Two Christmas’s ago she actually cried on Christmas Eve because she really thought that we’d surprise her with a puppy. Well, Christmas morning those tears went away as we DID get her a beautiful Westie puppy (the breed that she wanted). That joy lasted weeks… maybe days. Puppies are a lot of work. She’d send him to our house to have a break every now and then. Very quickly the dog’s time with us became more and more until he was about two and then he just stayed with us. Now, when we picked out the puppy I told my husband that we had to like the dog because he’d probably end up with us. I mean, however, that I expected the dog to outlive mom! Mom still considers it her dog though. When we go away, she watches him. I thanked her in May - we’d spent a week away in Calgary when our second grandchild was born. When I thanked her she said “don’t be silly, it’s my dog”. Sigh. We love the dog, but never expected him to be ours 100% of the time so early in his life!!
Same situation but it’s my son’s dog. Who is now our dog. I love her to death and we spoil her just like we do with our other dog, but yeah I never expected it to become ours full time. He works 2 jobs and is busy, but I wish he would have considered that when he rescued her as a from a friend who was gonna take her to the pound. Our older, smaller dog hates her, (although my son’s dog loves our dog so much, but won’t have a thing to do with her. Siiiigh lol) she’s a puppy who needs constant training and attention. It’s just a mess. I wouldn’t trade her for the world and my son has another thing coming of he ever decides to come take her home 😂 it’s been 8 months son, she’s ours now.
I would be suspicious of anyone who specified a breed of dog. Sounds like she wanted a cute fluffy white dog, not a companion who requires alot of time and attention.
@@lazyhomebody1356 Not in the least. She has had Westies before and wanted another. What she (and we, for that matter) didn’t take into reason was that she’s 80 now and not 60. It was too much for her plain and simple. Good God, this is my Mother we’re talking about! Have a bit of a heart. We did.
I was chef for years and decided that I didn't love it anymore, so I decided to change my career. After 2 years of thought and research, I decided to become a forensic accountant. I'm nearly finished with my bachelor's and am in a new job and much happier. So a complete career change is possible! Do what makes you happy!
Jackie, you're such an inspiration. As somone with chronic illness and mental health issues, hearing you share your experiences, while seeing you being a successful RUclipsr that has inspired me so much, makes me feel anyone is capable of anything, they just need to be less hard on themselves. Hope your recovery is going well. Lots of love from a UK Grain. Xxxx ♥️♥️♥️♥️
I really wish I had listened to this yesterday. I got frustrated with myself yesterday and got up out of bed. Ended up falling and braking my leg in 2 places. So here I am in hospital listening to you. This is all new to me so I just kept thinking that it was just me being lazy. So everyone out there please please listen to this. You must change your expectations as to what your body can do not what it could do. Thanks once again for your channel.
It definitely takes a lot out of you emotionally and mentally when you have to learn to live with a different lifestyle than the one you dreamed of. I've had fibromyalgia since i was about 12 years old (I'm nearly 31 now) and my god, my childhood was hell. Everyone just thought i was lazy because nothing was officially diagnosed until i was 25. I was punished in school for being late, missing days, falling asleep in class, not being able to take part in phys ed etc. I lost all my friends because they'd ask me to go out to play or go shopping or to the cinema and i just didn't have the energy to go. I don't really have any friends now that aren't online. I can count my irl friends on one hand. I'm still adjusting now because there's things i would love to do (walk my dog for longer, go for bike rides with my other half or just a walk in the park) and i just can't do them
Hey, I was really touched by your post. I developed rheumatoid arthritis in my late teens, and never wanted to use a cane to walk. It took me breaking both of my legs, separately, before I accepted that I needed to do whatever my body needed to be healthy and safe. I got a cane when I left the hospital, and never looked back. I hope you heal quickly, and are back on your feet soon.🙂🥰
Me and my family weren't supposed to keep my cat that I own. But she didn't just show up at our doorstep though. It was an after noon and my lil bro and lil sis (im the oldest) were gone at my grandparents house that's not to far from our house (30 minutes away) and my dad was on a business trip and he was coming home that afternoon. I'd like to point out my dad had said many times "we aren't getting anymore pets." I'm a animal lover so I literally will take any animal my parents let me keep. At the time we already had 4 pets, 2 dogs, 1 cat, and a fish. (Sadly all those pets died last year) my mom came up to me and showed me a picture of a kitten, it was a scruffy lil ball of floof! Then my mom said "since your dad isn't here, we are going to get that kitten!" The kitten was found by our neighbors in a storm drain at Kroger (for non Americans reading this, Kroger is a grocery store) my mom went and picked up the kitten, and omg I loved her so much! And too this day I love her still! My dad got home and let me tell you he wasn't happy AT ALL! he told me we weren't keeping her and we are just fostering her. I cried a lot because I wanted to keep her. But 1 month later my dad said "we will keep her if I get to name her" my dad named her mabel after mabel from gravity falls, the show me and my dad loved! and she turns 4 years old on August 1st!
Bill and Ted also featured the late, great, George Carlin. Jackie, you are NOT toxic. I've never even met you (tho you feel like a friend), and there is no way you are a toxic person. I sniff my cats around their ears and neck. So wonderful!
I suffer from Fibromyalgia and I thank you for your permission to take it easy :). I am a perfectionist and often don't stop unless I have intense physical symptoms such as flare ups and migraines. So thank you for the reminder.
I am also a spoonie! I've been disabled for a decade but am just now getting validation and learning about my illness and getting real help. You talking about your medical struggles made me cry because I feel like someone I've watched for years is so amazingly relatable, even more so than before. Thank you for sharing these podcast videos Jackie. I hope your continued healing goes well and that this procedure relieves a lot of your pain.
Amen Jackie, I am so hard on myself. I have Grave's disease and chronic pain in my back and neck from injuries. Thank you for you being you. I know what you mean about potatoes.....
I would definitely love to hear more about the 4 agreements and all of your attitude around your health. What you said about it here was really helpful, thank you. I’m so glad glad that you are healing well but I also completely relate to the fear and PTSD difficulties around it too.
Thanks for taking time explaining the spoons thing. That's actually a really helpful concept, I always struggle to explain why I have less energy than other people. As a female asperger (which was considered a nonexistent condition in my youth) with a bunch of comorbid struggles (chronic pain among those, and nobody believes you're in pain when there is no obvious physical reason) it really is helpful when people like you openly talk about their struggles, because it kind of allows me to do the same, if that makes sense? So as much as I feel sorry for you suffering, still, thank you for that!
That was my brother with the original charlie and the chocolate factory. He'd watch it, rewind and then watch it again. Repeat ad nauseum. He's still a pain in the ass now and he's 27 😂
I am so so happy you are having good results from the surgery!!!!!! And I LOVE that you will not be hard on yourself and area encouraging everyone to be kind to themselves.
I completely understand how you feel about exercising! I was in the military, and exercise was always super important and a big part of my life. I was diagnosed 6 years ago with Exercise Induced Anaphylaxis and it has made exercise virtually impossible most days. You're doing the best you're able to!
10:48 My husband and all my loved ones and friends tell me this and sometimes it is hard to believe and interiorize. I am building a ladder every day too. Thank you, Jackie ❤️ You are a fantastic, brave and kind person and a role model for anyone who wants to be a genuinely good human!
I actually have four cats that my aunt couldn’t take care of. They were kittens and they had bad fleas and ringworm. We took them to the vet, treated them for the fleas and ringworm and have had them ever since. They are just a part of the family now.
I did the same thing Jackie with my career. I’m a paramedic and I worked so hard to get through school, testing and job hiring process and I lucked out an was hired at my dream job right out of school. But then I hated it after awhile… I love taking care of people and having medical knowledge but the job was killing me mentally and physically, so I took a 90 degree change in my career, I’m still a paramedic but I work in film now! I absolutely love it and I’m so happy:) the pay is less than my original job but at the end of the day, me being happy and stress free is way more important than a paycheque.
The idea of gifting animals when you go to someone's house sounds like something they would do in the medieval era, if one ruler was visiting another. Not only is that unfair to the animal, you're shoving this responsibility on a person who didn't want it in the first place. How could they think that was a good idea?
The rule of gifting that I was told when I was a kid is, "Pets and plants aren't gifts. If it requires care, time, money, attention, upkeep, or any combination of those it's a burden not a gift.". And even if you've had explicit conversations about these things with the giftee, it doesn't mean they wanted these things gifted.
I'd say that a mantra that I came up with is, "It doesn't have to be perfect- just get it done." I tend to be a perfectionist at work and it slows down my progress. 😅 Happy to see you back in front of the camera!
Ive been using the spoon analogy for years. It's so hard for some people to understand... but even people not suffering from illness even can understand. They have spoons too. Jackie you are to amazing and deserve so much in life ❤ 💗 💖 Love you guys over there.
I saw someone use spell slots instead of spoons, where cantrips are the things that doesn't require spoons to be done, and every next spell level is things that require more and more spoons. As a DnD player, this spoke to me even more than spoons :)
I've been dealing with limited spoons for 12 years. July 19th, I finally get my hip replacement surgery. Thank you for helping me through PT leading up. There's a light....
jackie, I am so glad that thing went well . It makes my heart o happy for you.Keep to what they say and keep going for it. LOVE YOU girl..you give me strengt
Jackie, I'm so happy to hear you are well, you are the one of the best people on RUclips I've seen. Keep up the good work. And my best wishes to you and your family get well soon.
You survived a narcissist, one of the most difficult people to have to deal with, my hubby has also survived a narcissist, almost feels like a badge of honour. You are an inspiration Jackie, so much in your life that has been difficult, and now you are on the mend from major back surgery. Thank you for being, sincerely hope you can achieve your dreams ☺xx
I have my son’s cat that he “found” in his freshman year of college (even though we insisted no more pets), fast forward , he moved out and promised to get her (surprise! His roommate was allergic) but by the time he was in a place that he could take her, I kind of refused to give her up, she’s a cute little freak though.
When I was a kid we had some relatives take care of our cat when we went camping. Of course we never got her back! It is rare that you get a cat back once someone has the cat 2 weeks
When you said, "It's ok to go easy on yourself", that hit me hard! I'm still learning how to do this. My mind still thinks "I can do this" while my body says "NO, NO, NO!". Some days I can keep up with everyone. Other days I basically need to rest 4 times a day.
Totally agree with you on your potato choices! Mashed is my first choice (if gravy is involved6. Then fries - and I’ll take fries in all forms - with ketchup, with mayo (it’s a German thing!), with gravy, as poutine. Now I want poutine!!!
Wow! Thank you for answering the question about the budgies. I hear them sometimes and have always wondered. I have budgies too. They are very trusting and they talk. I love them so much. They have a whole room to themselves and fly around all day. I also have a cockatiel. I hope you recover from your surgery soon. Lots of hugs ❤
Aww. I have a special room for my birds too. They have their own tv and a huge play stand and it's so peaceful to just sit in there and not have to deal with humans.
thank you for talking about your chronic illness. i grew up feeling like no one understood and having breakdowns with joint inflammation trying to explain it to my parents. i watch your main channel and i think it’s hard to sometimes see past the happy persona we see on a youtube video. you are honestly so real and it’s so comforting. you are so appreciated. i also could relate to being hard on yourself than others but one thing i tell myself is to treat myself as if my friend was going through what i am. it help so much, i appreciate you
Man, a load of that I relate to so much it actually feels like you're talking directly to me. I hope Sika is OK and just resting instead of struggling. Please let her know that we grains love her just as much as you!
My daughter and I watch you all the time, and we are inspired by your growth and honesty you have in a landscape (YT) that can bring out the worst in some peeps. You choose to rise above and as Dory would say, “Just keep swimming”. Keep going, we love you. From my Daughter and I in Australia.
Thank you so much for the chat about not being to hard on myself. I am a mom of three and have an auto immune I’m in pain a lot and get upset with myself when I can’t do activities with the kids that I used to do. Thank you so so much 🥰
Just a giant thank you. I DEFINITELY needed to be told to go easy on myself today. I know I'm two weeks late but thank you. I am someone who also has chronic pain/illness and this spoke to me in ways you will never know and I thank you for that. Thank you.
I have had back pain most of my life due to various incidents. In 2014, I got in a car accident and I messed up my neck and hip. I know what it feels like to walk along and suddenly find my legs will no longer support me. I also have various stomach alilments that have made me starve 70lbs off my body. It is a good thing that I was already chubby to begin with or I would be super skinny by now and not in a good way. I totally get the conversation about having people be in careers they don't want. My doctor told me it was GOOD that I was starving to death and refused to give me anything for the nausea because I was overweight and needed to lose weight. I had to go and develop a new relationship with a totally different doctor to get something to help with the daily nausea and I STILL starve because I am too sick to eat most days. I am so glad you are feeling better Jackie! You deserve something good to happen for you and I hope and pray this is it. I can't wait to get my craft kit! ;)
I’m a spoonie. I have high functioning autism with large doses of anxiety and a sprinkling of depression. Ever since I was diagnosed, I’ve embraced who I am but I keep learning every day what that is and have learned be kind to myself… though sometimes I forget. I’ve also struggled physically most of my life. I’m hyper mobile and have had chronic back pain for years ( thankfully I’ve found Pilates has help so much with both) and I also struggle with heightened senses that can result in sensory overload. I love talking about all my struggles because I know so many are going through their own. Sometimes we fell alone but we’re not and I want so much for people like us to know we’re not alone. If we talk about our truths, people learn to accept and normalise things that are different from them. I’m so glad your beginning to feel better Jackie, I’ve been praying. 💖💖😊😊
Jackie, Thank you for sharing so deeply. I am probably close to old enough to be your mom but I am sitting here crying listening to you. Thanks for educating people about autoimmune diseases. We both were born in Africa and we both have autoimmune issues and have siblings with autoimmune issues. We are also an immigrant family. I love your relationship with Sika. It really moves me. There was once something you told us about spending your money on getting Sika a book from Scholastic. For some reason, I always get teary when I think about your love for her. I love my sisters so much and it just moved me. I wish you plenty of painless spoonfuls of goodness every day. Best wishes and thanks for all of the great crafts. I think I mentioned it before....Sophie and Toffee owe you commission on all of the items I have bought from them.
I always struggled with spoons as the analogy, but I've been using spell slots and it helps. We've had a cat and a dog that ended up ours. The cat just showed up, but the dog was my mom's and she couldn't take care of him anymore because of her health.
That description of the limited energy was amazing. I fully related to that. I didn't even realize that was a thing. I felt on my own in that limited energy thing and having to decide were to use it. Thank you so much, I'm not alone. So many great things in this episode! Really enjoyed listening /watching today. Very much inspiring and motivating! Much love to you Jackie. 💜
Glad to hear you are feeling better! My husband and I love watching your channel! He has back and neck problems from a log truck wreck 10 years ago so he knows your pain! Keep getting better and know that, no matter what, your grains are with you!! ❤️❤️
Hi Jackie, I just wanted to say how lovely it was to see you and hear you. It’s a huge thing to hear somebody as wonderful as you are talking about mental health, physical health, healthy relationships and people’s perceptions and preconceptions about these things. Thank you! Be blessed Jackie and I hope you get well soon!
I know what it’s like to learn to pace I’ve had an “invisible illness “ for 11 years and it took me ten years to learn to go one step sometimes 1/2 steps at a time. It’s a long process, I suffer CPRS, Fibro, Chostochondritis, nerve damage and migraines that need monthly nerve blocks. Thank you for bring awareness and talking openly it helps to know we’re not alone.
Talking of budgies, in the late 80’s. I was babysitting for a lady I knew. She couldn’t give me a fee. She asked if I would like her Budgie that was stuck in the hallway. I accepted her offer. Freebie became her name. And I had her for 12 years. She started my love for the little Birbs. 35 years later. My Budgie I have now is called Nola.
Thank you for all the great advice. I'm glad you are recovering and I hope it all works our for the best. I also suffer from chronic pain and it infuriates me when someone tells me: "You don't look sick." Luckily I work from home currently, but there are still times when I have to call in sick and then my boss gives me grief because: "you are working at home, how bad can it be?" Try having so much pain that you can't get out of bed! I tell her, family ands friends -but they all tell me to "get over it."
I love you, Jackie and thank you for everything. About seven years ago, I was a passenger in a vehicle accident. The rescue team had to use the jaws of life to pry the dashboard off my legs. I had to do physical therapy for over a year to be able to walk. Everyone was amazed I had legs still. I’ve gained so much weight back that I worked hard to lose. I have bad neuropathy in my legs. It always feels like they’re covered in bruises and over the years it’s gotten worse. I cry so much, not just from pain but I’m only 35, I can’t stand up for three minutes and I used to walk for hours on end, I loved adventure hikes through the woods. I hiked up a mountain in Missouri and Alabama. Now I can’t even make it to the tree line with my walker. It’s so hard to be kind to yourself, I’m in mental therapy for other things, I just don’t think about talking through that. It’s just became a normal part of life where some days I’m so mad at my body because I can’t leave my bed. Sorry for the long thing, but thank you for the reminder to be kind to yourself.
I’ve not had chronic pain but my partner does and I see how much he goes through. we both struggle with mental health and social anxiety and know how it can get you. Glad you were able to get the surgery and wish you a safe and healthy recovery! I also feel like we must be around the same age as your fave movies line up so much with my childhood faves
I am so SO delighted to see you looking so well and seeming so clear-minded after the ordeal of your surgery! I hope you begin to feel more confident in your back over time...I deeply understand what it feels like to be extremely cautious to the point of fear doing even small tasks. I've always understood the term "Spoonie" to mean exactly what you said. It is mentally exhausting to constantly budget which tasks you can do, and which other ones you have to sacrifice, even seemingly "small" things like household chores etc. Taking things day by day is truly the only way I know how to live with chronic pain and stay sane, so I love this idea you've introduced to me of "building a ladder" as well as "The Four Agreements." I would be very interested in hearing you talk more about it! On my bad days, I think about how much I miss the past with all the things I was able to do with my body, but it's just not a healthy way to think!
Hi Jackie! Oh my heart, you were preaching it today! No one should be stuck in a career that they decided on when they were 20! I too was a teacher, an elementary music teacher. Talk about your niche market! and niche skill set! But after 20 years in the music education field, I decided to go back to my dream: being an author. I have wanted to write a book since I was in sixth grade! (I am now 44) But I digress, you are so en pointe with your observations that we are not even the same people hardly that we were ten years ago, much less 20-30 years ago. Much truth. I think of you and your recovery daily. I hope you don't mind me considering you a friend. I love you. Rock on, Sister Salt!
I'm seeing my surgeon tomorrow about my back. My pain is back, and I've already had one surgery a few years ago. I also have chronic migraines. Invisible pain is HORRIBLE, and as a mother of two, I never have enough spoons. Love to you and hoping, hoping, hoping your surgery was successful.
I have a friend with EDS. You’re right it’s hard for those for us without chronic illness to understand what the challenges are. But you did a good job explaining it with the spoons. Glad you are able to do more. Best wishes in you continued recovery.
Thank you Jackie. I really needed to hear that, it’s true people with chronic illnesses don’t feel good all the time & I do feel awful when I can’t do things everyday. And I just need to be happy with what I can do. Thank you again!
Super happy the recovery is going well! Sending prayers and well wishes! Just to touch on employment stuff. My father taught us to always want more. Do better, go farther. I didn’t catch on until my 30’s! Now I’ve moved up super fast within the behavioral health (mental health) field and realized I’m happy has a program manager opposed to working with clients. It’s not the direction I thought I’d go but I’m so happy now!
I have 12 budgies currently and I love them so much! We've been keeping them for over 10 years now. They live in a massive aviary in the garden, all together. Enough to fit like 7 fully grown men in.
You are bang on the description for Spoonies! I have found that this is the best explanation for chronic invisible illness when I have to explain to someone why I can't do something "today" vs what I was able to accomplish the previous day. Spoon value fluctuates, and borrowing from tomorrow's spoons is never worth the burn-out.
I have chronic pain as well. We get so used to it that we end up fooling the people around us. I'm so sorry you went through that with that teacher. I've been through something like that and it helped me be better aware of the people I associate with.
one of the best parts about being a grain is feeling seen been home bound for going on 8+ years now and its so nice havin a down to earth real person out there not trying to cover up or pretend its not a big deal thank you
This is soooo awesome, I'm so glad you're getting to do the things you haven't previously been able to do🖤🖤🖤. Makese SOOOOOOOOOOO happy for you reading this!!
I loved, loved the fact that you told ur students that they don’t have to stay in the same job if they don’t want to! When I first went to college it was with the intention of becoming a director and screenwriter. But what do ya know I hated directing and I fell in love with voice acting even though I vehemently told myself I would never become an actor. And now I want to become a Screenwriter, a Voice Actor, aaaaaannnnd a video game art and designer (aka I would do character design, art, animation etc.). I never would have thought my dreams would be such a roller coaster of emotions and changes but now here I am and I am happy. So thank you for spreading the word like this to your students and telling them it’s ok because it is. If I hadn’t thought that way I would have never discovered all the fields I want to work in. So thank you 😊 and I hope you feel better soon!
Having spent 5 weeks in re-education hospital for chronic back pain I know how much it takes and I commend your tenacious attitude. Keep up the work! We're all standing with you.
Thank you for sharing, Jackie!! ❤️ I personally have a pet stroller for my dog, and I've seen others use the same stroller for their cats - so I say go for it!! Especially if it can encourage you to get outside on those harder days.
I am a new fan and you really are a wonderful human being, i craft and sculpt and found we have a million things in common and have had such a difficult time dealing with my chronic illnesses, type1 diabetes and Graves’ disease but now in hypothyroid after having my thyroid removed and this last few years have been tough especially with giving up the gym , have now just started walking again and it honestly feels amazing, I don’t feel so alone as nobody understands what we have to go through, keep up the smiles Jackie, luv you
I’m so glad you are feeling better. It shows in your eyes and the lack of dark circles under them. Cheers to continued improvement and a new rung on your ladder!
I have been through depression and anxiety after being sick with COVID. I know what invisible pain is, and I have had the misfortune of being misunderstood. I have not always been able to give what was expected of me, and I gave my best at all times. Thanks for this video, I needed!
So happy to see you back and hear that things are going well! Invisible illnesses are miserable to deal with but you have shown how to persevere with beauty and grace and you are so appreciated for that. Fun story....while living in Arizona many years ago, I was sitting outside with friends and a young budgie just flew up and landed on the table we were sitting at. Long story short(er) I wound up taking him home and named him Ne-Nu (short for neon nuisance as he was LOUD) and he became my ceiling fan cow-bird (he would fly up to my ceiling fan, crouch down low on the blade with his wings spread and 'ride' the blade while I pushed it in a gentle circle)(Yee-haw)
Thank you for this! I am only 10 mins into this video and crying. I have been fighting depression for 15+ years. And this is the first time anyone has said it's okay to be easy on myself. I have literally hated myself on days that I feel like I didn't accomplish much. Some days I only have enough energy to get out of bed and maybe eat. I got dressed today, and I was proud of myself for that.
I am part of the chronic pain family too. I’m a disabled army veteran. I use art as my physical and psychological therapy. I’d also love to purchase your resin or clay work (especially Pokémon)! You are so talented! My daughter and I love watching you!
I had intended on taking in a co-worker's cat, but when he brought her to the vet they found out she was actually acting out because she had stomach cancer, not because of the toddler or kitten they got, so that plan fell through. Well, I had already stocked up on cat supplies, so I ended up adopting a 4yr old black dlh who is now 8 and living her best cat life. It was an unintentional/intentional pet lol. She came with a lot of trauma from being adopted and returned to her foster home 3x for the stupidest reasons (she doesn't claw at things, doesn't hiss bite or growl, doesn't knock things over, uses the litter box) and we're pretty sure the college kid who adopted her and locked her in his room, or his roommate (who hated cats) had some abusive behaviour. She was terrified of legs/laps for a good 2yrs. We weren't trying to get a pet and hubby was a little upset at first (because he agreed to helping a friend, not just adopting a pet lol) but now she's his little buddy and she keeps me sane since he started truck driving last year. It ended up being a blessing and one of the best things I've ever done 😻 Never thought I'd say that since I've always been a "dog person" but she's not an average cat and it's great.
The goal is to excapt the change day to day. Now is now tomorrow is a new day. It is impotant to don't compare yourself with an older vision of you and if this older you is just an houer old. It took me some years of learning and accepting. And I am still working on it. Your words put me in tears...all the best wishes...
I love your theory about being today's 100%. I have had a bad week and last weekend was so poorly I didn't leave my bed. With 4 sons (3 with disabilities) to look after my poor husband was run ragged. Only this weekend have I started to feel a bit better although my glands are still swollen and I feel a bit yuck. I was bring too hard on myself thinking I was being useless. In fact I'm working at my current 100% and yesterday I even managed some hours on the park with my boys. Glad to see you are feeling better. Much love to you and sika
![Quando Rondo - Life Goes On [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/eIf3fhMXAow/mqdefault.jpg)
![Megan Thee Stallion - Bigger In Texas [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QxTkZTLWdo4/mqdefault.jpg)
My friend came to my house one day and when she showed up she had a tiny baby kitten with her and said she found it on the side of a road by her house . This kitten still had its eyes closed. Well she did not know how to care for such a tiny baby. So I got everything I needed and ended up with the best all black Male cat ever. He lived for 12 yrs and was so friendly.
My mom met someone who had a kitten and couldn't take care of it due to them having surgery on their hand the next week.
My mom took the kitten in and knew what she was doing. The kitten died at about a week old after she opened her eyes.
I understand chronic pain, and "invisible" pain. I was also abused, so I understand that too. Keep going, and you'll be able to do it! I believe in you and all the other grains.
Same here.😣
me too
sadly me too
Same here.
Same with me
Jackie, treat yourself like you would a friend. Why are you so hard on yourself when you are so compassionate with other people? I'm glad you were able to break free from that toxic mentor relationship. What a bully! He lied about the petition thing because he was threatened by you being a better teacher. He did you a favor kicking you out because you are so loyal you would've stayed there that much longer "helping" him. Not surprised the other guys joined in to kick you out of the gym. It is called misogyny.
Hope you feel better about your back soon. Don't make any solid decisions on the teacher job yet. In a couple of months you will be that much further into the healing process and will be able to make a more informed decision. Right now use your spoons to heal.
This was so on point it was almost uncanny.
Jackie "I will tell you the exact coffee down below"… But Jackie You're Doing It Wrong!!! You didnt leave the coffee name down below!!
Lol
When looked straight at the camera and gave permission to be easy on yourself- I about bawled. I needed to hear that today.
Just now seeing this video and came across your comment. I’m crying sooooo hard right now that I can barely see the keys to type this. I have chronic pain and “people” and “media” makes me feel like I’m such a bad person for being the way I am and having to do what I have to do in order to get through my day just to do whatever my 100% is for that day. It’s like they add mental anguish to my physical pain. I’ve been in the bed for the past 2 days and was feeling so bad about myself for not being able to get things done around the house. Her saying that just released sooooooo much emotional pain in the form of of my tears. (Sorry for such a long message)… anyway, back to crying lol
Felt that 🥺😢😭💓
I had a friend who asked me to take care of his hamsters while he was on a trip. He came back and never asked for the hamsters back. Long time later I was like “dude, the hamsters…” he interrupted me by acting surprised like “oh, I totally forgot about them!” And then I finished my sentence “…are mine now. Well, their offspring, because Yours are dead.”
Lol this is too funny 😂
@@kaiyamcgill7426 how is this funny? this is absolutely horrible
@@blesmol5091 Sounds like the original hansters died of old age though
I brought home the school rat once, when I tried to bring him back I was told he was old and the teacher didn't want him dying in class, so he wanted us to keep him. Jokes on him that rat lived another 5 years, if he really was 5 years old like he said, that rat lived twice the average rat age.
@@lazyhomebody1356 yeah but how come the original owner just neglected it
A fun podcast idea with you and Sika would be taking a test on the Enneagram( personality test) and learning about each other desires and to see if its accurate for your guys personalitys.
Complete and total pseudoscience. 🙄
@@SoCalJellybean Just because something is pseudoscience doesn't mean it can't be fun, just as long as you recognize them for what they are.
I agree, other personality tests too, I would love to see them do MBTI.
I had an extremely abusive father so I understand. I'm sorry you had to go through that. He missed out on a beautiful woman!💓
The Spoonie theory came about after the woman who coined the term was trying to explain how she feels day-to-day, to her friend.
She happened to have several spoons nearby, so used them as a visual aid!
I never knew that was how it was coined! You learn something new everyday!
It's used in autistic and ADHD communities to express executive dysfunction struggles too! It's a great way to visualize how much you can handle day to day for people who don't totally get it.
It's easy to find, look for "Spoon theory". There is a hart warming story
A friend of mine explained her level of pain in this way so I thought she invented it. True story
The lady was in a cafe with a friend & her friend asked what it was like to have Lupus... So she lifted all the spoons she had sitting nearby & explained her Spoon Theory. It has since become used for alot of chronic health issues. I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia about 14yrs ago & heard about about "Spoons" several years ago from others in a support group. I've since been diagnosed with other autoimmune illnesses along with severe depression & anxiety disorder. If it wasn't for my animals, I wouldnt make it through a single day nevermind all these years.
So glad u have ur animals & have a good support system! Keep urself warm, happy & keep giggling (cause some days when the pains are really bad & ya just want to cry, there's always 1 thing that can give u a giggle, especially with animals about ur home! They can do some crazy stuff! Lol! Gentle hugs from Northern Ireland! 🙂
I have encountered the term “spoonie” very recently, in Italy is not a thing, but I started talking with a girl who has Multiple Sclerosis like me, but in the States and she introduced me to the term and in the last months I have been counting my spoons since fatigue hit really hard.
Before being diagnosed I was a nurse, after I was feeling really down and my depression and anxiety came back so I decided it wasn’t my path anymore, I started working at an amusement park and 3 years ago I went back to university, I’m studying languages and I want to become a librarian after graduation ‘cause I just love books, not just reading, but books. They saved my life when I was a kid, I was beaten and closed in a wardrobe and I was able to hide books and a torch in there, and I was able to escape reality.
I’m very happy you’re doing good and being able to go outside for a walk sometimes can be really helpful! Wish you all the best!
My dad walked outside to take out the trash one day. Next thing I know, he's come into my room, holding a bright yellow parakeet and tells me "it just flew and landed on my shoulder". I attempted to find the owners (posted notices in our neighborhood, posted in an online forum, etc) and told dad "you need to give it at least 2 weeks." Lemondrop got a new cage 2 days later, and got a friend named Blueberry 2 weeks later.
if you enjoy teaching, you could do workshops. You've got enough of a following that you could do that once your back is better. Or, perhaps tutoring. Much love to you, girl!
Man we'd love to take classes from you on outschool!!!!!
My mom (80) wanted a puppy so badly for years. Two Christmas’s ago she actually cried on Christmas Eve because she really thought that we’d surprise her with a puppy. Well, Christmas morning those tears went away as we DID get her a beautiful Westie puppy (the breed that she wanted). That joy lasted weeks… maybe days. Puppies are a lot of work. She’d send him to our house to have a break every now and then. Very quickly the dog’s time with us became more and more until he was about two and then he just stayed with us.
Now, when we picked out the puppy I told my husband that we had to like the dog because he’d probably end up with us. I mean, however, that I expected the dog to outlive mom!
Mom still considers it her dog though. When we go away, she watches him. I thanked her in May - we’d spent a week away in Calgary when our second grandchild was born. When I thanked her she said “don’t be silly, it’s my dog”.
Sigh. We love the dog, but never expected him to be ours 100% of the time so early in his life!!
That's not very fair at all :( I'm glad that the dog at least have you guys instead of just being neglected though, you're doing a great job 💜
Same situation but it’s my son’s dog. Who is now our dog. I love her to death and we spoil her just like we do with our other dog, but yeah I never expected it to become ours full time. He works 2 jobs and is busy, but I wish he would have considered that when he rescued her as a from a friend who was gonna take her to the pound. Our older, smaller dog hates her, (although my son’s dog loves our dog so much, but won’t have a thing to do with her. Siiiigh lol) she’s a puppy who needs constant training and attention. It’s just a mess. I wouldn’t trade her for the world and my son has another thing coming of he ever decides to come take her home 😂 it’s been 8 months son, she’s ours now.
She needed an old lazy dog.
I would be suspicious of anyone who specified a breed of dog. Sounds like she wanted a cute fluffy white dog, not a companion who requires alot of time and attention.
@@lazyhomebody1356 Not in the least. She has had Westies before and wanted another. What she (and we, for that matter) didn’t take into reason was that she’s 80 now and not 60. It was too much for her plain and simple. Good God, this is my Mother we’re talking about! Have a bit of a heart. We did.
I was chef for years and decided that I didn't love it anymore, so I decided to change my career. After 2 years of thought and research, I decided to become a forensic accountant. I'm nearly finished with my bachelor's and am in a new job and much happier. So a complete career change is possible! Do what makes you happy!
But now you have to explain to everyone what a forensic accountant is...
@@lazyhomebody1356 they are basically detectives for financial crimes.
@@katc7933 That is a cool job
as a 'spoony' myself I can understand some of the struggles... but Jackie is such an inspiration for those of us with chronic illness.
AMEN!
Oh is THAT what that means! For weeks now I've been seeing "fellow spoonies" in the comment section. I was afraid it was something like furries
Jackie, you're such an inspiration. As somone with chronic illness and mental health issues, hearing you share your experiences, while seeing you being a successful RUclipsr that has inspired me so much, makes me feel anyone is capable of anything, they just need to be less hard on themselves. Hope your recovery is going well. Lots of love from a UK Grain. Xxxx ♥️♥️♥️♥️
I really wish I had listened to this yesterday. I got frustrated with myself yesterday and got up out of bed. Ended up falling and braking my leg in 2 places. So here I am in hospital listening to you. This is all new to me so I just kept thinking that it was just me being lazy. So everyone out there please please listen to this. You must change your expectations as to what your body can do not what it could do. Thanks once again for your channel.
It definitely takes a lot out of you emotionally and mentally when you have to learn to live with a different lifestyle than the one you dreamed of. I've had fibromyalgia since i was about 12 years old (I'm nearly 31 now) and my god, my childhood was hell. Everyone just thought i was lazy because nothing was officially diagnosed until i was 25. I was punished in school for being late, missing days, falling asleep in class, not being able to take part in phys ed etc. I lost all my friends because they'd ask me to go out to play or go shopping or to the cinema and i just didn't have the energy to go. I don't really have any friends now that aren't online. I can count my irl friends on one hand. I'm still adjusting now because there's things i would love to do (walk my dog for longer, go for bike rides with my other half or just a walk in the park) and i just can't do them
Hey, I was really touched by your post. I developed rheumatoid arthritis in my late teens, and never wanted to use a cane to walk. It took me breaking both of my legs, separately, before I accepted that I needed to do whatever my body needed to be healthy and safe. I got a cane when I left the hospital, and never looked back. I hope you heal quickly, and are back on your feet soon.🙂🥰
Me and my family weren't supposed to keep my cat that I own. But she didn't just show up at our doorstep though.
It was an after noon and my lil bro and lil sis (im the oldest) were gone at my grandparents house that's not to far from our house (30 minutes away) and my dad was on a business trip and he was coming home that afternoon. I'd like to point out my dad had said many times "we aren't getting anymore pets." I'm a animal lover so I literally will take any animal my parents let me keep. At the time we already had 4 pets, 2 dogs, 1 cat, and a fish. (Sadly all those pets died last year) my mom came up to me and showed me a picture of a kitten, it was a scruffy lil ball of floof! Then my mom said "since your dad isn't here, we are going to get that kitten!" The kitten was found by our neighbors in a storm drain at Kroger (for non Americans reading this, Kroger is a grocery store) my mom went and picked up the kitten, and omg I loved her so much! And too this day I love her still! My dad got home and let me tell you he wasn't happy AT ALL! he told me we weren't keeping her and we are just fostering her. I cried a lot because I wanted to keep her. But 1 month later my dad said "we will keep her if I get to name her" my dad named her mabel after mabel from gravity falls, the show me and my dad loved! and she turns 4 years old on August 1st!
Couldn’t she have waited an extra 30 days? Since, you know, August 31st is Mabel and Dipper’s birthday?
Bill and Ted also featured the late, great, George Carlin.
Jackie, you are NOT toxic. I've never even met you (tho you feel like a friend), and there is no way you are a toxic person.
I sniff my cats around their ears and neck. So wonderful!
I suffer from Fibromyalgia and I thank you for your permission to take it easy :). I am a perfectionist and often don't stop unless I have intense physical symptoms such as flare ups and migraines. So thank you for the reminder.
I am also a spoonie! I've been disabled for a decade but am just now getting validation and learning about my illness and getting real help. You talking about your medical struggles made me cry because I feel like someone I've watched for years is so amazingly relatable, even more so than before. Thank you for sharing these podcast videos Jackie. I hope your continued healing goes well and that this procedure relieves a lot of your pain.
Amen Jackie, I am so hard on myself. I have Grave's disease and chronic pain in my back and neck from injuries. Thank you for you being you.
I know what you mean about potatoes.....
Aawwww! Bless that movie theater man. I love hearing stories of kind, lovely people. And what a cute memory to have for yourself as well.
I would definitely love to hear more about the 4 agreements and all of your attitude around your health. What you said about it here was really helpful, thank you. I’m so glad glad that you are healing well but I also completely relate to the fear and PTSD difficulties around it too.
Thanks for taking time explaining the spoons thing. That's actually a really helpful concept, I always struggle to explain why I have less energy than other people. As a female asperger (which was considered a nonexistent condition in my youth) with a bunch of comorbid struggles (chronic pain among those, and nobody believes you're in pain when there is no obvious physical reason) it really is helpful when people like you openly talk about their struggles, because it kind of allows me to do the same, if that makes sense? So as much as I feel sorry for you suffering, still, thank you for that!
Girl, my sister still hates me for how much I watched the little mermaid. I'm surprised the VHS didn't wear out and break lmao.
I wasn’t allowed the lion king on vhs because I watched Aladdin so often it drove my family nuts
That was my brother with the original charlie and the chocolate factory. He'd watch it, rewind and then watch it again. Repeat ad nauseum. He's still a pain in the ass now and he's 27 😂
I am so so happy you are having good results from the surgery!!!!!! And I LOVE that you will not be hard on yourself and area encouraging everyone to be kind to themselves.
just picturing a baby jackie getting some popcorn makes me happy😂😍🥺
Can you imagine how cute she must have looked?!
I completely understand how you feel about exercising! I was in the military, and exercise was always super important and a big part of my life. I was diagnosed 6 years ago with Exercise Induced Anaphylaxis and it has made exercise virtually impossible most days. You're doing the best you're able to!
10:48 My husband and all my loved ones and friends tell me this and sometimes it is hard to believe and interiorize. I am building a ladder every day too. Thank you, Jackie ❤️ You are a fantastic, brave and kind person and a role model for anyone who wants to be a genuinely good human!
I actually have four cats that my aunt couldn’t take care of. They were kittens and they had bad fleas and ringworm. We took them to the vet, treated them for the fleas and ringworm and have had them ever since. They are just a part of the family now.
I did the same thing Jackie with my career. I’m a paramedic and I worked so hard to get through school, testing and job hiring process and I lucked out an was hired at my dream job right out of school. But then I hated it after awhile… I love taking care of people and having medical knowledge but the job was killing me mentally and physically, so I took a 90 degree change in my career, I’m still a paramedic but I work in film now! I absolutely love it and I’m so happy:) the pay is less than my original job but at the end of the day, me being happy and stress free is way more important than a paycheque.
The idea of gifting animals when you go to someone's house sounds like something they would do in the medieval era, if one ruler was visiting another. Not only is that unfair to the animal, you're shoving this responsibility on a person who didn't want it in the first place. How could they think that was a good idea?
The rule of gifting that I was told when I was a kid is, "Pets and plants aren't gifts. If it requires care, time, money, attention, upkeep, or any combination of those it's a burden not a gift.".
And even if you've had explicit conversations about these things with the giftee, it doesn't mean they wanted these things gifted.
Exactly! Especially with a pet, if the person has talked about wanting a pet of x type, but hasn't got it, there's probably a reason for it.
Back then, they gifted their daughters. Gifting pets isn't much better.
@@e_b_dionne6505 Even if I wanted a hamster I would want to pick out my own hamster!
I'd say that a mantra that I came up with is, "It doesn't have to be perfect- just get it done." I tend to be a perfectionist at work and it slows down my progress. 😅
Happy to see you back in front of the camera!
Same here! I also have to use the ladder - one step/thing at a time.
"Done is better than perfect"
A slob comes clean, 2021
This quote did a lot for me!
YES! Also, "it doesn't have to be 100%; 50% is better than nothing". These two mantras have changed my life so much for the better.
Ive been using the spoon analogy for years. It's so hard for some people to understand... but even people not suffering from illness even can understand. They have spoons too.
Jackie you are to amazing and deserve so much in life ❤ 💗 💖
Love you guys over there.
Happy you're on Google and Spotify. I listen to podcasts while I'm either washing dishes, crocheting, or getting ready for bed.
I saw someone use spell slots instead of spoons, where cantrips are the things that doesn't require spoons to be done, and every next spell level is things that require more and more spoons. As a DnD player, this spoke to me even more than spoons :)
I've been dealing with limited spoons for 12 years. July 19th, I finally get my hip replacement surgery. Thank you for helping me through PT leading up. There's a light....
So happy to hear about your recovery, Jackie. Hoping you can get back to everything you love. 💕🤗💐
jackie, I am so glad that thing went well . It makes my heart o happy for you.Keep to what they say and keep going for it. LOVE YOU girl..you give me strengt
Jackie, I'm so happy to hear you are well, you are the one of the best people on RUclips I've seen. Keep up the good work. And my best wishes to you and your family get well soon.
You survived a narcissist, one of the most difficult people to have to deal with, my hubby has also survived a narcissist, almost feels like a badge of honour. You are an inspiration Jackie, so much in your life that has been difficult, and now you are on the mend from major back surgery. Thank you for being, sincerely hope you can achieve your dreams ☺xx
I have my son’s cat that he “found” in his freshman year of college (even though we insisted no more pets), fast forward , he moved out and promised to get her (surprise! His roommate was allergic) but by the time he was in a place that he could take her, I kind of refused to give her up, she’s a cute little freak though.
When I was a kid we had some relatives take care of our cat when we went camping. Of course we never got her back! It is rare that you get a cat back once someone has the cat 2 weeks
When you said, "It's ok to go easy on yourself", that hit me hard! I'm still learning how to do this. My mind still thinks "I can do this" while my body says "NO, NO, NO!". Some days I can keep up with everyone. Other days I basically need to rest 4 times a day.
Totally agree with you on your potato choices! Mashed is my first choice (if gravy is involved6. Then fries - and I’ll take fries in all forms - with ketchup, with mayo (it’s a German thing!), with gravy, as poutine. Now I want poutine!!!
Wow! Thank you for answering the question about the budgies. I hear them sometimes and have always wondered.
I have budgies too. They are very trusting and they talk. I love them so much. They have a whole room to themselves and fly around all day. I also have a cockatiel.
I hope you recover from your surgery soon. Lots of hugs ❤
I miss budgies. But I'm in a small trailer with 3 cats.
@@carola7893 Then I understand it is difficult to have budgies. Cats are great too. ❤
What Bird youtubers do you watch?
Mostly Bird Tricks 😊
Aww. I have a special room for my birds too. They have their own tv and a huge play stand and it's so peaceful to just sit in there and not have to deal with humans.
thank you for talking about your chronic illness. i grew up feeling like no one understood and having breakdowns with joint inflammation trying to explain it to my parents. i watch your main channel and i think it’s hard to sometimes see past the happy persona we see on a youtube video. you are honestly so real and it’s so comforting. you are so appreciated. i also could relate to being hard on yourself than others but one thing i tell myself is to treat myself as if my friend was going through what i am. it help so much, i appreciate you
I’m so glad you are ok & I’ve got everything crossed for you 🤞🤞
I watched this while I was editing my next RUclips Short, and found this Coffee & Conversation so inspiring and eye opening. Thanks Jackie!
Man, a load of that I relate to so much it actually feels like you're talking directly to me.
I hope Sika is OK and just resting instead of struggling. Please let her know that we grains love her just as much as you!
I loved listening to your encouraging words, I honestly wish I could give you a hug, Jackie ❤❤❤❤❤
My daughter and I watch you all the time, and we are inspired by your growth and honesty you have in a landscape (YT) that can bring out the worst in some peeps. You choose to rise above and as Dory would say, “Just keep swimming”. Keep going, we love you. From my Daughter and I in Australia.
Thank you so much for the chat about not being to hard on myself. I am a mom of three and have an auto immune I’m in pain a lot and get upset with myself when I can’t do activities with the kids that I used to do. Thank you so so much 🥰
me at 11:00 : 😥😭😭
Seriously Jackie, thank you for the encouragement. I've been running on 1 spoon lately.
Just a giant thank you. I DEFINITELY needed to be told to go easy on myself today. I know I'm two weeks late but thank you. I am someone who also has chronic pain/illness and this spoke to me in ways you will never know and I thank you for that. Thank you.
I have had back pain most of my life due to various incidents. In 2014, I got in a car accident and I messed up my neck and hip. I know what it feels like to walk along and suddenly find my legs will no longer support me. I also have various stomach alilments that have made me starve 70lbs off my body. It is a good thing that I was already chubby to begin with or I would be super skinny by now and not in a good way. I totally get the conversation about having people be in careers they don't want. My doctor told me it was GOOD that I was starving to death and refused to give me anything for the nausea because I was overweight and needed to lose weight. I had to go and develop a new relationship with a totally different doctor to get something to help with the daily nausea and I STILL starve because I am too sick to eat most days. I am so glad you are feeling better Jackie! You deserve something good to happen for you and I hope and pray this is it. I can't wait to get my craft kit! ;)
I’m a spoonie. I have high functioning autism with large doses of anxiety and a sprinkling of depression. Ever since I was diagnosed, I’ve embraced who I am but I keep learning every day what that is and have learned be kind to myself… though sometimes I forget.
I’ve also struggled physically most of my life. I’m hyper mobile and have had chronic back pain for years ( thankfully I’ve found Pilates has help so much with both) and I also struggle with heightened senses that can result in sensory overload. I love talking about all my struggles because I know so many are going through their own. Sometimes we fell alone but we’re not and I want so much for people like us to know we’re not alone. If we talk about our truths, people learn to accept and normalise things that are different from them.
I’m so glad your beginning to feel better Jackie, I’ve been praying. 💖💖😊😊
Jackie, Thank you for sharing so deeply. I am probably close to old enough to be your mom but I am sitting here crying listening to you. Thanks for educating people about autoimmune diseases. We both were born in Africa and we both have autoimmune issues and have siblings with autoimmune issues. We are also an immigrant family. I love your relationship with Sika. It really moves me. There was once something you told us about spending your money on getting Sika a book from Scholastic. For some reason, I always get teary when I think about your love for her. I love my sisters so much and it just moved me. I wish you plenty of painless spoonfuls of goodness every day. Best wishes and thanks for all of the great crafts. I think I mentioned it before....Sophie and Toffee owe you commission on all of the items I have bought from them.
I always struggled with spoons as the analogy, but I've been using spell slots and it helps.
We've had a cat and a dog that ended up ours. The cat just showed up, but the dog was my mom's and she couldn't take care of him anymore because of her health.
That description of the limited energy was amazing. I fully related to that. I didn't even realize that was a thing. I felt on my own in that limited energy thing and having to decide were to use it. Thank you so much, I'm not alone. So many great things in this episode! Really enjoyed listening /watching today. Very much inspiring and motivating! Much love to you Jackie. 💜
Glad to hear you are feeling better! My husband and I love watching your channel! He has back and neck problems from a log truck wreck 10 years ago so he knows your pain! Keep getting better and know that, no matter what, your grains are with you!! ❤️❤️
Hi Jackie, I just wanted to say how lovely it was to see you and hear you.
It’s a huge thing to hear somebody as wonderful as you are talking about mental health, physical health, healthy relationships and people’s perceptions and preconceptions about these things.
Thank you! Be blessed Jackie and I hope you get well soon!
I know what it’s like to learn to pace I’ve had an “invisible illness “ for 11 years and it took me ten years to learn to go one step sometimes 1/2 steps at a time. It’s a long process, I suffer CPRS, Fibro, Chostochondritis, nerve damage and migraines that need monthly nerve blocks. Thank you for bring awareness and talking openly it helps to know we’re not alone.
Talking of budgies, in the late 80’s. I was babysitting for a lady I knew. She couldn’t give me a fee. She asked if I would like her Budgie that was stuck in the hallway. I accepted her offer. Freebie became her name. And I had her for 12 years. She started my love for the little Birbs. 35 years later. My Budgie I have now is called Nola.
Thank you for all the great advice. I'm glad you are recovering and I hope it all works our for the best. I also suffer from chronic pain and it infuriates me when someone tells me: "You don't look sick." Luckily I work from home currently, but there are still times when I have to call in sick and then my boss gives me grief because: "you are working at home, how bad can it be?" Try having so much pain that you can't get out of bed! I tell her, family ands friends -but they all tell me to "get over it."
I love you, Jackie and thank you for everything. About seven years ago, I was a passenger in a vehicle accident. The rescue team had to use the jaws of life to pry the dashboard off my legs. I had to do physical therapy for over a year to be able to walk. Everyone was amazed I had legs still. I’ve gained so much weight back that I worked hard to lose. I have bad neuropathy in my legs. It always feels like they’re covered in bruises and over the years it’s gotten worse. I cry so much, not just from pain but I’m only 35, I can’t stand up for three minutes and I used to walk for hours on end, I loved adventure hikes through the woods. I hiked up a mountain in Missouri and Alabama. Now I can’t even make it to the tree line with my walker. It’s so hard to be kind to yourself, I’m in mental therapy for other things, I just don’t think about talking through that. It’s just became a normal part of life where some days I’m so mad at my body because I can’t leave my bed. Sorry for the long thing, but thank you for the reminder to be kind to yourself.
I’ve not had chronic pain but my partner does and I see how much he goes through. we both struggle with mental health and social anxiety and know how it can get you. Glad you were able to get the surgery and wish you a safe and healthy recovery! I also feel like we must be around the same age as your fave movies line up so much with my childhood faves
I am so SO delighted to see you looking so well and seeming so clear-minded after the ordeal of your surgery! I hope you begin to feel more confident in your back over time...I deeply understand what it feels like to be extremely cautious to the point of fear doing even small tasks.
I've always understood the term "Spoonie" to mean exactly what you said. It is mentally exhausting to constantly budget which tasks you can do, and which other ones you have to sacrifice, even seemingly "small" things like household chores etc. Taking things day by day is truly the only way I know how to live with chronic pain and stay sane, so I love this idea you've introduced to me of "building a ladder" as well as "The Four Agreements." I would be very interested in hearing you talk more about it! On my bad days, I think about how much I miss the past with all the things I was able to do with my body, but it's just not a healthy way to think!
Bless you, hun. I hope and pray for more healing for you. I absolutely love watching you and Sika. Much love from Kentucky!!
I'm shocked you've snapped back so fast, Jackie! I'm so glad you're doing well, and in just a week. All the internet hugs.
Hi Jackie! Oh my heart, you were preaching it today! No one should be stuck in a career that they decided on when they were 20! I too was a teacher, an elementary music teacher. Talk about your niche market! and niche skill set! But after 20 years in the music education field, I decided to go back to my dream: being an author. I have wanted to write a book since I was in sixth grade! (I am now 44) But I digress, you are so en pointe with your observations that we are not even the same people hardly that we were ten years ago, much less 20-30 years ago. Much truth. I think of you and your recovery daily. I hope you don't mind me considering you a friend. I love you. Rock on, Sister Salt!
Had never heard of the spoon theory, but it sums up my life.! So helpful to think of this, and not feel so alone.
I'm a Spoonie too. Here's the original story/full theory: butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/ (-:
You are an inspiration and such a wonderful woman. Much love Jackie ❤️
I'm seeing my surgeon tomorrow about my back. My pain is back, and I've already had one surgery a few years ago. I also have chronic migraines. Invisible pain is HORRIBLE, and as a mother of two, I never have enough spoons. Love to you and hoping, hoping, hoping your surgery was successful.
Good luck for tomorrow (today? yesterday?)!!!
I have a friend with EDS. You’re right it’s hard for those for us without chronic illness to understand what the challenges are. But you did a good job explaining it with the spoons. Glad you are able to do more. Best wishes in you continued recovery.
It's " train of thought ". because you can add to the thought process like adding a carriage to a train and can be as long and meandering as you wish.
Pls yes let’s be philosophical and pls talk more about invisible Illnesses
Thank you Jackie. I really needed to hear that, it’s true people with chronic illnesses don’t feel good all the time & I do feel awful when I can’t do things everyday. And I just need to be happy with what I can do. Thank you again!
Super happy the recovery is going well! Sending prayers and well wishes!
Just to touch on employment stuff. My father taught us to always want more. Do better, go farther. I didn’t catch on until my 30’s! Now I’ve moved up super fast within the behavioral health (mental health) field and realized I’m happy has a program manager opposed to working with clients. It’s not the direction I thought I’d go but I’m so happy now!
I have 12 budgies currently and I love them so much! We've been keeping them for over 10 years now. They live in a massive aviary in the garden, all together. Enough to fit like 7 fully grown men in.
You are bang on the description for Spoonies! I have found that this is the best explanation for chronic invisible illness when I have to explain to someone why I can't do something "today" vs what I was able to accomplish the previous day. Spoon value fluctuates, and borrowing from tomorrow's spoons is never worth the burn-out.
So good to see you back. Take care and please go easy. I can empathise with you, having had a major spine surgery.
I have chronic pain as well. We get so used to it that we end up fooling the people around us. I'm so sorry you went through that with that teacher. I've been through something like that and it helped me be better aware of the people I associate with.
one of the best parts about being a grain is feeling seen
been home bound for going on 8+ years now and its so nice havin a down to earth real person out there not trying to cover up or pretend its not a big deal
thank you
This is soooo awesome, I'm so glad you're getting to do the things you haven't previously been able to do🖤🖤🖤. Makese SOOOOOOOOOOO happy for you reading this!!
I loved, loved the fact that you told ur students that they don’t have to stay in the same job if they don’t want to! When I first went to college it was with the intention of becoming a director and screenwriter. But what do ya know I hated directing and I fell in love with voice acting even though I vehemently told myself I would never become an actor. And now I want to become a Screenwriter, a Voice Actor, aaaaaannnnd a video game art and designer (aka I would do character design, art, animation etc.). I never would have thought my dreams would be such a roller coaster of emotions and changes but now here I am and I am happy. So thank you for spreading the word like this to your students and telling them it’s ok because it is. If I hadn’t thought that way I would have never discovered all the fields I want to work in. So thank you 😊 and I hope you feel better soon!
Having spent 5 weeks in re-education hospital for chronic back pain I know how much it takes and I commend your tenacious attitude. Keep up the work! We're all standing with you.
Thank you for the update on your back!! Rooting for you to feel better and better!
Thank you for sharing, Jackie!! ❤️ I personally have a pet stroller for my dog, and I've seen others use the same stroller for their cats - so I say go for it!! Especially if it can encourage you to get outside on those harder days.
OMG you are back! So pleased to hear you are okay! Ik hope things will go as planned for you. You are such an inspiration.
I am a new fan and you really are a wonderful human being, i craft and sculpt and found we have a million things in common and have had such a difficult time dealing with my chronic illnesses, type1 diabetes and Graves’ disease but now in hypothyroid after having my thyroid removed and this last few years have been tough especially with giving up the gym , have now just started walking again and it honestly feels amazing, I don’t feel so alone as nobody understands what we have to go through, keep up the smiles Jackie, luv you
I’m so glad you are feeling better. It shows in your eyes and the lack of dark circles under them. Cheers to continued improvement and a new rung on your ladder!
I have been through depression and anxiety after being sick with COVID. I know what invisible pain is, and I have had the misfortune of being misunderstood. I have not always been able to give what was expected of me, and I gave my best at all times. Thanks for this video, I needed!
So happy to see you back and hear that things are going well! Invisible illnesses are miserable to deal with but you have shown how to persevere with beauty and grace and you are so appreciated for that.
Fun story....while living in Arizona many years ago, I was sitting outside with friends and a young budgie just flew up and landed on the table we were sitting at. Long story short(er) I wound up taking him home and named him Ne-Nu (short for neon nuisance as he was LOUD) and he became my ceiling fan cow-bird (he would fly up to my ceiling fan, crouch down low on the blade with his wings spread and 'ride' the blade while I pushed it in a gentle circle)(Yee-haw)
Thank you for this! I am only 10 mins into this video and crying. I have been fighting depression for 15+ years. And this is the first time anyone has said it's okay to be easy on myself. I have literally hated myself on days that I feel like I didn't accomplish much. Some days I only have enough energy to get out of bed and maybe eat. I got dressed today, and I was proud of myself for that.
Sending hugs. We deserve self love
So glad you are feeling better. I love your videos and the conversations. Watching you and Sika interact is so entertaining.
I am part of the chronic pain family too. I’m a disabled army veteran. I use art as my physical and psychological therapy. I’d also love to purchase your resin or clay work (especially Pokémon)! You are so talented! My daughter and I love watching you!
I had intended on taking in a co-worker's cat, but when he brought her to the vet they found out she was actually acting out because she had stomach cancer, not because of the toddler or kitten they got, so that plan fell through. Well, I had already stocked up on cat supplies, so I ended up adopting a 4yr old black dlh who is now 8 and living her best cat life. It was an unintentional/intentional pet lol. She came with a lot of trauma from being adopted and returned to her foster home 3x for the stupidest reasons (she doesn't claw at things, doesn't hiss bite or growl, doesn't knock things over, uses the litter box) and we're pretty sure the college kid who adopted her and locked her in his room, or his roommate (who hated cats) had some abusive behaviour. She was terrified of legs/laps for a good 2yrs. We weren't trying to get a pet and hubby was a little upset at first (because he agreed to helping a friend, not just adopting a pet lol) but now she's his little buddy and she keeps me sane since he started truck driving last year. It ended up being a blessing and one of the best things I've ever done 😻 Never thought I'd say that since I've always been a "dog person" but she's not an average cat and it's great.
🖤❤️🖤
The goal is to excapt the change day to day. Now is now tomorrow is a new day. It is impotant to don't compare yourself with an older vision of you and if this older you is just an houer old. It took me some years of learning and accepting. And I am still working on it. Your words put me in tears...all the best wishes...
I love your theory about being today's 100%. I have had a bad week and last weekend was so poorly I didn't leave my bed. With 4 sons (3 with disabilities) to look after my poor husband was run ragged. Only this weekend have I started to feel a bit better although my glands are still swollen and I feel a bit yuck. I was bring too hard on myself thinking I was being useless. In fact I'm working at my current 100% and yesterday I even managed some hours on the park with my boys.
Glad to see you are feeling better. Much love to you and sika