Spoons

There is a word in the chronically ill world that means something different to us then the normal world.  That word is spoons.  Spoons are a metaphor for how much you can do in one day.  Before I do something I ask myself how many spoons is that gonna cost me?  If I do that activity what will I not be able to do later?  Spoons are non-transferable and unfortunately you run out faster then you think.  I am a frequent over acheiver and usually that includes using way too many spoons.  When I use too many spoons I don't magically gain more spoons I start digging into my next days stockpile, which drastically effects my energy and ability to do things the next day.  It is a vicious cycle that causes me to have days where I can physically do nothing.  On these days I'm stuck on my couch and my loving husband takes care of me.  Which begs the question, why do I overdo it so often? Well that's very simple, I refuse to stop.  If the enevitable for me is ending up in a wheelchair why not live it up while I can?  I want to be able to tell my kids someday that I never gave up and I never let Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome stop me.  My husband, Timothy, and my best friend, Mischelle, understand that I'm never gonna stop and only lecture me when I'm about to do something very stupid.  I am very blessed to have such a wonderful support group surounding me, even when I frequently over do it. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is not what I wanted in life but it has taught me who will really stick with you through thick and thin.