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What I have Learned so far

A Flare

12/13/2017

8 Comments

 
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Here are my paints waiting patiently for me while I wait for a "flare up " to quiet down. Some of you know I have had Chronic Fatigue Syndrome since I was in my thirties. I don't want my art to be about that so I seldom mention it but at Thanksgiving I got a real flare up that is just not ready to die down.
Nothing to worry about. I know the steps to take and how to take care of myself. I have go back to the Doctor for the third time tomorrow because an infection decided to make a home while I was "ripe for the picking".
What I have learned so far :
 I had a really long stretch of pretty good health. This is the nature of chronic illness it will circle back and take you down. What do I miss most? A Regular day of painting, doing laundry teaching and petting dogs. The regular days are the best.
8 Comments
Karen link
12/13/2017 07:35:36 pm

I appreciate your honesty. You are not alone. I have 3 of the listed conditions. I overdo it on good days then find myself spoonless for a day or several. Hang in there, Jo. Dog cuddles are restorative.

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jo mackenzie link
12/14/2017 07:38:04 am

Hi Karen, I am working the spoon theory and got some rest last night. The first pillar for me is sleep. If I can't sleep I "spin out". But last night I could sleep and yesterday my collie Fig Newton lay down next to me , practically on me ( which is not allowed) but I let him. It felt like a big furry hug or support. Smelly but in a good way. I told him he was the best friend ever ...and I think he knows he "did good".

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Stephanie Kammer
12/14/2017 08:31:40 pm

I so see myself in that empty pallet, I’m hoping that 2018 is better for me! I’ve read about the spoon factor, and I’m thinking it’s gonna be a good year.

Kahn Joyce
12/14/2017 07:42:54 am

Hang in there,Jo. I'm on crutches after a fall and hobbling on one leg. My dad's words stick in my head:"This too shall pass." Jo, You have always been very wise, and you understand your illness and its rhythms.
A friend recently told me that I have permission to rest without falling and injuring
myself. Each of us is on a unique journey. Wishing you a Happy Chanukah with increasing light and good health.

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Jo Mackenzie link
12/14/2017 10:24:28 am

Thank you for reminding me of the past when I got over the hump over and over again. When you are in it ( as you are) it is hard to remember that it will change and things will get better. It takes a village and many dogs to do this for me! Ha! That's what I need ...forget the medicine...get me another collie STAT

Reply
Anne
12/14/2017 08:17:49 am

Hope you feel better and stronger soon and will soon be back at your favorite things! Missing your videos and beautiful paintings.

Reply
jomackenzie link
12/14/2017 10:26:17 am

Thank you Anne. ..I miss my life ......but when I get back to it I will be more grateful than ever. Your kind words help me today. I am always afraid of fading away or just flat out disappearing. My metaphor is I don't want to be "erased! ". There maybe a video in that thought!

Reply
Jean
12/21/2017 12:48:21 am

I hope that you are feeling better every day. I depend on my dogs for cuddles and spouse for help with meals. In cold climates the furry dogs are extra warm to have nearby!

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  • Home
  • The Watercolor Coach
    • Videos
    • Visual Guide To Painting
  • Video Classes
  • Classes & Events
  • Blog
  • Prints
    • Prints & Merchandise
    • Clouds
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  • Original Paintings
    • Original Paintings Available
  • Contact Me
    • How To Buy A Painting
    • Commissions >
      • Endorsements! >
        • Pet Friends