a burnout care vlog 💫 3 days of tips, routines & creativity

[@KathleenIllustrated]

What creative side quests are we taking this week, everyone?! 🌈

[@melindamattox8056]

Teaching myself to draw with colored pencils, wearing fun lip colors, and taking power naps!

[@hungrylikealoup]

I think I might make going to the gym, doing a little mini watercolor scene with this cute travel watercolor set my brother got me for Christmas, and editing some photography as my side quests this week.

[@metesarabi9273]

Combining boxes of old necklaces, chains and beads into some statement pieces to wear to the next Disco Night at a local nightclub. I'm thinking of an overlay...either for pants or as a vest.

[@poppymagpie309]

You’ve reminded me how much I love a graphic tee with a skirt 😍 my sidequest hikes and walks have been making me very happy, and I’m always down for a tasty treat 😋 probably going to get a special kombucha today 🖤 I also learned about overstitching on knits from you and might start on my FNAF cardigan… 🧸

[@maya-gur695]

I don't know if it's a side quest, because I'm always working on some kind of writing project, but I want to complete a short story.

[@sabrinathomas4072]

Kathleen, every time you post, it’s like a best friend asking me to hang out. I get so happy and inspired. NORMALIZE GETTING LOST IN SIDE QUESTS!!!!!!!!!!!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

YEAH!!!!! That’s the exact vibe! Hehe thank you

[@VampireQueen70]

Yess!! 👍🏻✨

[@chelsi_seatbelt-sign-is-on]

OMG KATHLEEEN!!!!❤😊❤😊 I'm so happy you love the cardigan I sent you! I jumped for joy when I saw you pull it out. It's an honor to be a thrift goblin with you.Thank you for being an amazing, artsy, and lovely person. ✨️

[@jereneroses]

This is such a sweet thrift gift!! If you remember, do you know what brand this sweater was before you sent it to Kathleen or know what the tag said? I may or may not have fallen in love with this sweater after seeing it in the video and want to find my own... 😭

[@chelsi_seatbelt-sign-is-on]

😊 of course!! It was a vintage talbots cardigan, I believe. Size xl I found it at my local thrift store. It was so cute I had to get it.❤

[@jereneroses]

@@chelsi_seatbelt-sign-is-on You are amazing, thank you so much!! ❤

[@deefrost5695]

That is a really cute cardigan. Good choice

[@sj-el4lu]

The cardigan is so heckin cute! Great eye and I'm jelly! ❤

[@PricklyAlpaca]

As a fellow burned out girlie, I really appreciated the replenishing energy of this video ✨

[@KathleenIllustrated]

🧚🏻 liittttccherally watching your porcelain armor video right this very moment NO WONDER YOU’RE TIRED DAMN 🥲

[@softweargirl]

Feeling it too

[@lmiller65105]

I am newly retired as of May 24. I do not want to fall into laziness and complacency, so this three day challenge is just what I need to get started. I am obsessed with Japanese soft living with purpose. I will get involved with community service soon, but for now, I am waking slowly each day at 6 with tea or coffee and devotions, making my bed, and getting dressed in my way-too-many thrifted outfits. I am excited to use my “World’s Greatest Teacher” gifted mug from my students and generally getting started on this new “book” called retirement.

[@EileenMeehan-q4g]

I retired a year ago and have gotten into a routine that pleases me. I have three volunteer gigs that each feed a different part of me,I am purposeful about self care, and I have several creative projects going at once. I like retirement. Welcome to the club!

[@rochelle2758]

Congratulations!!!

[@montananerd8244]

I'm not retired yet (53) but I work at a museum, and those are powered by retiree volunteers. I have observed a few things that may be helpful- definitely take this soft, relaxed start and create the new routine that you want. You'll be able to find activities that fit into it, rather than quickly overwhelming yourself or having other people run your schedule. There's a good chance you'll miss an aspect of your career - once you identify that, which takes some time - what you think now will be very different as you shake off your old routine, esp come fall, you'll be able to find the right service project. I see that our volunteers who continue to use their professional skills have really satisfying retirements, even if they only work 2 hours a week. The causes you think you'll want to support most may be seeking volunteers for extremely boring work. But do ask questions, where I work, you have to volunteer for about a year as a front desk greeter or a digital scanner before you get a research or education project. Civic groups may provide more satisfying work, as they are all volunteer, whereas staffed organizations typically cannot let volunteers do many paid staff tasks. I wish you luck - and a rewarding next chapter! Also, you may decide you'd rather set yourself up with a low-hours small business, where you have creative control, rather than doing service projects, and that's absolutely fantastic too! I've seen a lot of retirees struggle to find the right lifestyle but if you start like you are, you're sure to have success!

[@lmiller65105]

I live in a very rural area. Our local civic club will be where I start with volunteer work. Thanks for the advice and kind comments.

[@osmanthea]

I just sent this video to my very creative and (sort of?) retired mom and I love that there are other women like her here! ❤️

[@hungrylikealoup]

I think my favorite thing about your videos, especially your art videos, is how playful and relaxed your are in doing art. I really want to do more art, but always feel intimidated by starting because I'm not great at coming up with art (drawing, painting, etc. -- not so much writing, Im confident in my writing) concepts out of pure imagination and watching your videos reminds me that I don't have to. I just find a cool picture on pinterest and draw that, or take a picture of myself and make a self-portrait. Especially with the last round of watercolor, you really show that you don't need to be perfect, just play with shapes and color, and if you don't like it, that's okay, because you learned you didn't like it. Also the trick with simply cutting out the shadows you didn't like!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

this makes me happy to read! as a recovering perfectionist, there’s nothing like breaking every rule with some fun wobbly drawings!

[@shaynannigans]

@@KathleenIllustrated that trick blew my mind, genius!

[@mandyhorton2054]

I said it before, and I'll say it again.... Mr. Rogers for grown ups vibes! You are a gem Kathleen!

[@tess9233]

For non-edible treats I would put fresh flowers on the kitchen table , maybe change out art on the wall for art in storage, or get a new candle! :)

[@angelaautrey5237]

I recently did something in my "closet" that I'd like to share. After many attempts to declutter my closet I still felt overwhelmed with the amount of clothes I had. Then it hit me! **I separated my clothes according to my many personalities! 😜Some days I feel "feminine Japanese girl" some days forest fairy or 80's rocker. Now I know where to look. It also helped me thrift with more purpose and less waste/regret.

[@tidalHeart]

1) you are outstanding 2) the music ?!! heaven!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

So glad you enjoyed!

[@rochelle2758]

Hard agree on using inexpensive paper. After years of buying Moleskine notebooks and then being scared to write in them, I now get those cute little cheap Muji notebooks with the brown cardboard covers whenever I’m in a big city and they’re the perfect amount of special but not too special…

[@sonnomdeplume]

MUJI is the fucking best

[@AliFinNoble]

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who thinks art school ruins their drive for art... I went to fashion school and I probably didn't sew anything for over 5 years once I said goodbye to the industry. Crazy how school can do that to you!

[@k1tkat-kate]

I did the same after finishing my music degree 🙃✌🏻✌🏻

[@sarahkinsey5434]

Same with reading. Having to analyze and write essays about books really ruins it. I don't feel like reading after textbook chapters either

[@stephanieg2000]

side quest for three days for me would be 1. cute outfit with a theme (today is ballerina) 2. coffee with cream 3. you tube on the couch which I call "my island"

[@KathleenIllustrated]

PERFECT 💛💛💛

[@julielafontaine4500]

As a woman who is well in to her 60 s I still love watching your videos. My life style still resembles yours a little even though my wardrobe is isn't as extensive..and aren't we fortunate to be able to do this..lots of Stinky love from Australia

[@shiparmada4460]

Oh! Oh! I have my day built to include side quests like this!! I work in clerical, so I have to pick out a business casual type outfit, and it does my brain good to have a bright swishy skirt. I always read a book on my lunch at work (I get and hour and 15 minutes). And if I have any evening time for myself after chores, I'll either do embroidery or some sort of sewing project or a bit of gardening. And CAN CONFIRM my mental health is so much better for making an effort to include these things!!

[@-beee-]

As someone who is trying to buy less, I love these videos that aren’t about thrifting. Thank you for taking us on this journey with you!

[@charlottebithell]

It’s no exaggeration when I say this- you live in the house of my dreams with the treasures of my dreams!

[@maya-gur695]

I'm burnout from looking for a new job and this video helped. Thanks.

[@litleangelbrook]

... this is actually such a great idea. I've been so slumped and stuck for months now and every time I get the teeniest tiniest bit of motivation again, I force myself to do the things that made the burnout in the first place. I'm gonna do this tomorrow.

[@lanaclark9551]

Kathleen you have literally no idea how much I needed this 🙏

[@KathleenIllustrated]

i hope this week brings some goodness to you! ‧₊˚✩彡

[@hanonymous1233]

Same!!

[@delph16]

I would love to treat myself to Starbucks and watching Gilmore Girls! Love you Kathleen!🥰🥰Yor videos make my week!💫

[@sleepygoblin87]

My creative side quest: I'm going thru my pile of clothes that need adjustments/alterations/diy and making a list of them, as well as what I want to do to them so I can start figuring out what I need to buy in order to complete the projects.

[@skhootman]

OMG! The Cardigan! Love it.

[@littletinyegg]

loving your drawer era

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Drawer pilled 🥵

[@jenniferjurczak7465]

I loved this format. The music while you drew was so relaxing and captivating.

[@sj-el4lu]

1. Cute outfits for the next 3 days, let's go! 2. My daily treat is my afternoon oat matcha latte. 😍 3. A little doodle everyday to get into the groove of things

[@heidisegelke6243]

You cannot know how I relate to this video! And freaking thank you. I am both a classical singer and a visual artist (2 years at FIT-life time of self teaching and I’m a geezer)…so when I started my teaching career and found out I’d be teaching…chorus-the joke was on me (not for nothing it’s been a super rewarding 20 plus years). That said-I have a shit ton of supplies, little time and burnout…but hallelujah in a week, I’m free and can do some of the exercises you were showcasing -brought back memories and I used to be really good. Also thanks for making it ok not to be perfect…I wrestle with my brain’s big brother cutting me down. Hugs sent your way because you’re super stinky ❤!

[@misosaltee]

Kashi has the cutest little kickers

[@KathleenIllustrated]

he sure does 🥲

[@pinekun]

loveee the pieces you made in this video. seeing you cut out the shading you didnt like was so good to see, and inspiring in its own way. now i feel like pulling out some inks and having a good time. thank you kathleen 🦥🌻

[@isabellegracie]

I would love love LOVE if you posted a tiktok or short explaining your little 3 day creative/self love challenge!

[@astranova1674]

Obsessed with the transitions at 12:39! It’s so creative and fun

[@PatDooley50]

Thank you for a lovely video. I got a little contact high of watching you draw

[@FairyGirlsLibrary]

I love your style of clothes and how you put them together. You are such an inspiration.

[@myownbravado]

Ahh, side quests are so good and fun!!! I absolutely love all the little fashion drawings you did, and the outfits were cute, too! And that cardigan is amazing, I want one in every color combo imaginable Part of my side quests for the week were going to be to do my nails and redye my hair because that always makes me feel better, but maybe I'll add a couple more things to make it more fun! A lil sweet treat definitely never hurt anybody 👀And I too have the post art degree burnout, I've barely made any since I graduated last year, but I've been trying to get back into it. Maybe I could incorporate that, too! Thanks for the inspo, as always!!

[@faeriesmak]

Fresh basil on vanilla ice cream is AMAZING. Try it. I went to school for music so I totally understand the burn out.

[@maschamind307]

I would love to see more of you drawing and painting! 😍 this video was very wholesome ❤️ Thank you for charing your process and being transparent about emotions and decisions 🙏

[@hannahstubbs9993]

thank you for the lovely relaxing video, exactly what i needed before a busy work week! i had a bubble tea today and did some lino printing, 2 outta 3 ain't bad 💪🏻

[@eloranelson]

Thanks dude! You are appreciated 💐 Adopted a sweet black cat yesterday and cant wait to make all the scratchy art, trees, and beds for this lil guy ❤

[@TanyaPhilipovich]

What a calming and inspiring hangout sesh with Kathleen, thank you bestie 💖✨

[@julierosemodelproductions]

my fave treat is definitely them marshmallow candies :P apart from the classic strawberry flavor, i recently found a peach flavor too!

[@deefrost5695]

Loved the video theme and the white on white dress with and without the corset. Cute illustrations so inspiring

[@level2ginger]

❤ videos like this!! I have the same struggle when I want to dress up for working at home, but I start my day at 530a and I know I can't make those kinds of decisions in the early morning. Now I pick a couple outfits the night before, 1 more bold, 1 more comfy, and then I'm pretty confident I'll wear real clothes the next day.

[@hollyerin897]

sound design in this video is perfection btw

[@professorhuggins9738]

I found your channel quite recently and, honestly, your videos have already lots sparked ideas and creativity. I’ve been physically burned out with long term sickness and my creative side had kind of gone to sleep. I think partly because I was such a perfectionist but now I don’t have the energy or brain power to do things the way I used to. But I find your approach to creativity so fresh and fun, and inspiring. I dusted off my sewing machine last week so I think my side quests will be to cut a new pattern and start making something colourful and comfortable for summer. For treats I’ll go with playing piano, or time in the sun with my dog. Loved this video, especially love that you show your whole process including stuff that didn’t go to plan!

[@andreamarguerite]

loveeee this video, love when you do chill art videos. i went through a whole THING about art a while back and am still constantly working to remind myself that DOING art makes me happy, not making perfect gallery-worthy pieces (which is good because my technical drawing skills are uh let's say a work in progress). now i have a little tablet and try to mess about on there when i pop a podcast on, but this video 10000% inspired me to go specifically find pictures of my little old self (?!?) to use as reference. self portraits! wild!

[@13ees.]

Loved this!! You’re such a fantastic youtuber, and i find such comfort in your videos. Thank you for bringing us along to your side quests!

[@Gus.Martin.Rollerblading]

She’s THRIVINGGG 🎉

[@KathleenIllustrated]

bahaha 🛴💨

[@needsthesun]

YOURE my treat, Kathleen 🙈 (Also I never see you illustrate faces and I’m here for it)

[@kaytemnorwood]

3 day style challenge? Accepted.

[@jesssicajoy]

Quite literally my FAV outfit you have ever put together (battle princess one), quite literally my FAV video you’ve ever put out, it’s all exactly what my sensitive little heart needed 🤍

[@shannong7556]

Loved watching the artwork become your vision !

[@Lalalandshark]

This video is such perfect timing for me. I've been feeling serious burnout lately, and your video is so encouraging!

[@shannonmain823]

I know EXACTLY what you are saying about school sucking the passion out of you! I have a degree in English Literature and it took me a looooong time after graduating to be able to read a book for pleasure again.

[@ceegee1706]

Trendy top, tasty treat, tactile tinkering! .... i am counting coming up with this alliteration as my creative work today ❤

[@osmanthea]

Late here but who cares! My side quests: - make myself something cute and fun to eat no matter how small - play a little dress up - i want to get back into photography, so focus on a different subject every day (at home or maybe I go on a walk) 😊

[@bdluejay]

really really liked this video. ive been feeling down and havent been doing much in the way of creativity, and watching you made me get up and make a nutritious and creative dinner. love your energy, youre always a ray of sunshine in my sub box

[@poppyEars]

I’m sick and this is so comfy rn thank you for being comfytube goals

[@KathleenIllustrated]

🍜 hot soup for you 🤲

[@karlajaro3497]

FUN...I love you girl! I always feel better after spending time with you. Thank you for being you (who else would you be lol) and sharing your lighf.

[@esleep]

this was healing to watch. i've been struggling lately too. thank you for making these videos

[@aprilnoriega7345]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video!! It was quite relaxing watching you be creative and make your art! 😍

[@tove_sofie2388]

This was just what I needed today!! Thank you - you made my day so much better (have put on a skirt under my t-shirt, eaten a treat and getting ready to draw/collage something just for me) ❤🎉

[@floralspectre]

Might actually try out a version of this myself this week ❤ I dropped out of art school last year due to burn out and still haven’t been able to get fully back into making art. Maybe this will be a step in the right direction! Thank you for the inspiration and the fun video 🌱

[@mcwjes]

Love the painting! Love the ren fair fit! Pin tucks, floral, and embroidery make me happy. One of favorite treats is going to the fro yo place on Wednesday. They don't weigh for pricing on Wednesday, just a flat rate for the cup. My son always picks rainbow foods and I get gelato, hot fudge, and cherries. The discount makes it extra tasty.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

whaaaAAAAT that sounds like an incredible deal 👀 🍦

[@marthabookdragon8857]

Solidarity for us bookstore poop sufferers! Appreciate you providing visible representation for us 😘

[@KathleenIllustrated]

It’s hard work but it’s good work 🥲

[@moniale3657]

Hi Kathleen, what I do is dressed up with some colors and mixed patterns; after I drink a good coffee, talk with friends, work a little and when the night comes, I get in a creative mode. Now, I’m working on creating an loincloth with recycling materials and shinny stuff. I will wear it over some pants to make a Japanese street style. When I’m in this kind of mode, I sleep after an hour of creation just like a baby. This is my way to get out of my stinky days!

[@chelseabingiel4812]

I love your whimsical sketching style, maybe it's just the music but it gives me Studio Ghibli vibes or those pale watercolors that the first generation Pokemon game manuals had.

[@kiwillamas]

I have never seen the shelf at 5:58 in one of your videos before and I'm cackling about your tokyo mew mew collection. Had to zoom in to make sure, but I'd recognize those manga spines anywhere. Somehow I knew you had this specific energy all along.

[@yvonnemurphy7487]

I loved this video ❤ I always love the fun and thoughtful variety you create with your videos. Super Inspiring to live as life is our biggest work of art!!

[@UCgUso]

loving every single silly little video

[@KathleenIllustrated]

૮ ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶ ა you the best!

[@human_no847]

I've always wanted to know why you have an entire enchanted forest in your back garden, or if you simply live out in the woods like a wild woman lol I am so jealous of where you live, it's magical AF

[@KathleenIllustrated]

lol a little of column a, a little of column b! 🌳 🌲 🌳 🌲 thanks for watching!

[@shaynannigans]

Your day 1 sketch is giving Ms. Frizzle and I love it. ❤ I want to do a side quest challenge but might just start with one thing a day to start with 3 new outfits this week starting tomorrow!

[@happylovejojo1763]

It's all so good, loved every minute. Thank you.

[@LaurelRothamel]

This video was very needed xoxoxo

[@xingcat]

I just love how structured and unstructured this whole exercise was. Outfit, art, sweet treat! Just lovely and helpful for my own art block-ish feelings, just watching it.

[@laraejensen2157]

Recently found your channel and am so inspired by your content…especially today! I have been lacking my creativity for months now but am challenged by your 3 day quest….not quite sure what that will look like but I know it will include some calligraphy/lettering/experimenting with different pens, paper and ink! thanks again! 😎

[@margaretwillis7306]

You are so talented! Thank you for sharing. I've been rewatching some of these for stress relief!

[@metesarabi9273]

This. I needed to hear this today. Thank you!

[@acchristianson]

Kathleen, this was so fun! My creative side quests consist of knitting and crocheting. I just completed a Llama last night!

[@emmaanastasi6140]

I love this idea! I’ve been needing some inspiration to kinda just get moving doing a few little things that make me happy and these are some great ideas!

[@madamharbinger]

You inspire me, Kathleen. Thanks!

[@SharonGrant-rr7ni]

Not sure if it was in this video but your tip about using matching sets for pattern mixing outfits is genius.

[@XxxBelladonna]

Love being early for a video for once. You're amazing Kathleen!!!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Fank you!!! 🥲

[@OmGiTsKayTlyN]

I'm glad you are so honest ❤ I got a bfa in painting and drawing and art school gave me trauma and made me bitter. I haven't been able to paint for 8 years...

[@sharonlausin3892]

Hi Kathleen! You are a talented artist. For somebody that has not been creative with your art lately as you say. You really did not lose your style and technique. I bet. I would love to have one day you take us on a tour of your house for us. Take care and I can’t wait for your next video. Thank you.

[@AnneKerr]

This video actually made me feel peaceful and relaxed....thak you! I really enjoy watching you create your art, it is inspiring to me. And of course the thrifting inspires me too! Keep being stinky and thanks for your awesome videos. They make my week

[@sarahthomsen5619]

Love the idea of immortalising your fun little outfits with a sweet little fashion illustration🫶🏻🫶🏻

[@imperfect_grownup]

We got one of those adorable bear-faced cream breads the other day and it was SO GOOD. My three daily side quests would be: stretch, go outside, and read/ audiobook.💛🌱📖

[@anemelo-tsourekaki]

Thanks, turns out i really needed this! 🖤 And congrats for almost-100k, we'll be celebrating soon! 🥳🥳🥳 (and here's my most recent favorite treat of the day, in case anyone's looking for a nice cold drink: espresso + indian tonic (the sugary one!) + lime + rosemary + elderflower syrup + ice, adjust quantities to taste 😊)

[@patworfka143]

That beautiful illustration is giving me Studio Ghibli vibes- like Kiki’s older sister. 😊

[@alya2510]

I'm a fellow creative professional and the burnout struggle is SO real! Recently been really inspired to try other avenues of expression other than art such as fashion. Just found your channel and though I've been thrifting for a while you inspired me to try some more wild things and I found the CUTEST frilly Beetlejuice vibe blazer and I am ROCKING it!! Would normally never have gone for it but I was like you know what let's be adventurous and I am so inspired! Next step is some fabric scissors and a sewing kit >:)

[@secretly7bees]

oooooh your line quality and hatching style is so so nice, the way you drew your hair in the braids itches my brain in the best way!!! thank you for the inspiration!

[@lapislazulis2378]

Loved the fado song, the belt/corset, the blue silk 2 pieces and all of the outfits actually!

[@greatestcalamity6886]

i’m obsessed with all three outfits, especially the last one!!!

[@Micahlee_19]

Kathleen I'm a brand new subscriber and I'm so happy the algorithm threw me your channel. You truly are Art Auntie. Also, it makes me really happy and nostalgic that you are posting from the midwest. I grew up in noweheresville Illinois and all the shots of your home, the thrift store items, and everything feels very homey and familiar to me. I really love it. Now to binge your whole backlog ☺️

[@winterlighthome]

Cutest cardigan ever!!! I'm jealous!!! (Literally 1/4 of what's hanging in my closet is cardigans.)

[@maireadheffernan9943]

That was the most relaxing and gently inspiring 30 minutes. Thanks Kathleen for sharing this with us ❤

[@madddoll8685]

Love you and your videos!!! Totally going to do this this week, thank yewwww

[@maggiemoore9103]

Your drawing is giving shel Silverstein ❤️😊

[@kmmk292929]

love the rainbowy hawaiian robe, feels very 80's miami

[@melissarozalia]

Just got homeless, i love you're content. It makes me happy and feel like home even tho i got nowhere to go