GENTLE GOALS 💫 relearning how to love writing & creating

[@KateCavanaugh]

Hi, hi, hi. So in this video I talk about resetting expectations (for a lot of things) but one of them is KZbin. And I mentioned my goal is *ideally* one video a week, but lolol it's been over a month since I've last published anything. I think that's totally in line with my new "gentle goals" mindset, but it did make me giggle as I was editing bahahah. All that to say HI, I've missed y'all, hope you're doing well. I'm back from Ireland, over my sudden case of hives, and am enjoying how quickly I've taken to my routine again. Truly my newfound sense of comfort, it's incredible. Please check out the description for extra questions, but DEFINITELY let me know if you have any "creature comforts" you swear by when you're having a bad mental/physical health day. I'd love to hear it. See y'all soon(ish) with a new video!!

[@sarafreitas6988]

Taking breaks to do nothing, just observing my surrondings and being present. It really helps to reset

[@MadalynJudge]

Glad you're back and feeling better. Where do you stream at?

[@johntubbs6617]

@@sarafreitas6988 Ray Bradberry said the same thing in the "Zen of Writing" essay book he wrote, You Work, take a break or rest than stop thinking (It works to cool off at times)

[@gracygrace.mp4]

Wow, Ireland!! That must've been a blast!! :D I always drink coffee or go to a cafe with my honey if I feel down and out, or sometimes we just spend good quality time together. THANK YOU for sharing your life with all of us. We appreciate it!

[@KateCavanaugh]

Over on Twitch, it should be linked in the video description! :)

[@bethanyseabolt9387]

Your cat is catting at 200% and I love it!

[@KateCavanaugh]

TRULY. She said that she is the star, she is the moment, and nothing else I'm doing can possibly compare to her importance.

[@dalenel8268]

I'm also a freelance writer with migraines and stomach problems, and I just wanna say kudos. It can be really disheartening to try keep moving toward goals when your body is working against you sometimes, and the fact that you're approaching this with positivity, realism, and gentleness is massively inspirational. I recommend those stick-on heating pads for migraines, lovely for some upper back relief if yours are accompanied by tension. Good on you, and aroha from NZ!

[@KateCavanaugh]

Oooh, thank you! I will look those up! Sending you all the good vibes on your journey as well. 💜

[@eanne94]

I love the mindset of gentle goals and balancing productivity with self-care. What you were talking about with different definitions of your daily personal best reminded me of advice I read from Maggie Stiefvater. When she was dealing with some chronic health issues, she started keeping a journal. Each morning when she woke up, she would decide if she was feeling like 90% good or 30% good, etc. Then she tracked what she did each day and started to get a sense for what she could realistically accomplish at each of her levels. So each day, she considers how she feels and can set realistic goals for herself. I have to remind myself all the time that I can’t compare every day to a super productive 100% day because I’m not 100% every day.

[@KateCavanaugh]

That is GENIUS, thank you for sharing!!! Maggie Stiefvater is always such a great follow. I'll have to start adding that to some of my journaling, it seems like a much simpler way of keeping track, which is what I need.

[@ShalomDove]

Well, that’s creepy… less than hour ago I was thinking about how I might try to fall in love with writing again. 💜

[@KateCavanaugh]

There must be something in the air!! Glad writing is pulling you back in. The plus side is our stories will always be there, even if we take a break for a while. :)

[@ceceliacrowley385]

Me too…

[@madametrafficjam8347]

I'm happy to see you bullet journal without falling into the trap of turning it into an over-whelming art journal

[@bwezil]

Might be a small thing, but I really appreciate the pace/editing and volume of this video; it’s very chill, and great to listen to as I’m chilling. There’s no music, and you leave in all the life sounds that happen without them being too loud; it’s just really nice to put on in the background while I’m doing chores

[@elizaearhart4533]

Seeing you struggle with tummy problems as well is honestly such an inspiration. I’ve always felt like I’m silently suffering bec none of my writer friends have any similar problems, so they don’t understand why I don’t hang out on voice chat for long periods of time or why I won’t respond to them for two hours in the middle of a convo when I’m just “using the bathroom”. I mean they’re not jerks about it, but it’s just hard for people to truly understand what it’s like to have your life dictated by stomach problems. I’m going to an array of doctors next week to hopefully start to sort mine out, but it’s been a hard road so far and I’m glad to see how much you’ve managed to do! As always, you’re like such an inspiration (in writing and in healthy habits lol)

[@KateCavanaugh]

KEEPING MY FINGERS CROSSED FOR YOU!! I hope your doctors are able to narrow in on a cause and hopefully a solution or a management plan! It really is so isolating and at first felt super embarrassing, so I fully understand you. (It shouldn't be! Just how it felt early on. Lots of "agains??" you have to answer.) Barrett Laurie does a lot of livestreams and videos and chronicles his writing journey alongside his experience with Crohn's. I'd definitely recommend checking his channel out if you're looking for more people to follow! www.youtube.com/@BarrettLaurie/videos

[@narcoloopsie999]

I’m a writer with IBS-D and what I suspect are abdominal migraines. I’m restarting the journey of going back to doctors for answers. Thinking of you ❤

[@gracygrace.mp4]

Aw, this was sweet and wonderful to watch. I'm so glad you're feeling a bit better. I've personally been switching to a meat-based diet this past month and it's been a ride, but a good one. My headaches are going away, I feel less confused, and my bloating that seemed permanent is gone. I also had joint pain that went away, but only time will tell if that will last ( fingers crossed ). I actually had bleeding gums every time I brushed my teethsies before but that's gone too, so I'm definitely gonna' stick with it. I'm glad you found a diet for you and a working ritual that is best for you. No one is exactly alike, so we all do best in different ways of eating and working. I personally workout to your videos and then write or get something else productive done lol. Your videos inspire me. THANK YOU.

[@malintries]

OMG i just saw the slow mo dog jump it made my day lolll

[@KateCavanaugh]

It is my FAVORITE thing to use that feature on! Bahahaha.

[@ringsroses]

There's something so great about finding your own level of productivity alongside being able to live your life. I've been on a similar journey for several years and yeah, there is this way that over scheduling leads to burnout, excuses and extra health issues. I'm surprised at how productive I am now that I've stopped trying to do everything to the maximum of my ability. The work gets done and I don't feel guilty for not doing more. I've been thriving with a pretty low expectation routine but I've structured it like a school year with some downtime between quarters. It's been interesting to see that I need the unstructured time and resulting chaos for refilling the well. But also, it makes me crave the routine. Glad to see your willingness to evolve with how you approach social media. I think people get trapped by the idea of audience expectations and metrics. I think it needs to work for you, otherwise it's unsustainable and eventually the work suffers any way.

[@bpsara]

Gentle goals sounds perfect 😊 Establishing routines is HARD, especially lately it feels like. For me, it always takes forever to get used to a new schedule when I get a new job and adapt then it to my needs. Adding yoga to my day is also one of goals! I’m still trying to figure out the best/least friction time for me to do it. Recently I did make a discovery: I feel a lot better when I have a space of about 30 min of ‘waking up and contemplating’ before i need to get up for the day ❤ and I need to be okay with not getting as much writing done as I would like with a full time job.

[@sappholily]

silk bonnets are great! i've started using one recently too and my hair has felt really soft. i also use it as an eye mask because it's more comfortable to me than actual eye masks. i don't have a writing routine, but i was just telling my friend that i always watch you whenever i write, so i guess that is my routine. we were co-mls for nanowrimo and have since quit and have been trying to organize our area, and our projects, so i'm glad you're back! you really help me get into the writing mode! of course, take your time and take breaks whenever you need them, though! i can always go back and re-watch older videos of yours

[@reginaduke7451]

This is a lovely calming video. You are making great progress. I love the self realization that you are good at talking about self care but weren't very good at actually doing it. I am making similar types of adjustments as I adjust to aging. Lower energy levels, don't forget my meds, etc. I'm so glad you're feeling better. Sending love and hugs. 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@KateCavanaugh]

Sending you love and hugs as well!! It's a great reminder that this is a lifelong process. :)

[@thewildestwriter]

Love this one so much. My partner was diagnosed with Crohn's last summer (it's an inflammatory bowel disease) after years of misunderstood stomach problems. The anxiety I've been through over his health challenges has been so, so high. It's easy to feel alone because these issues are ones we're taught not to talk about--but there's so much support we can gain when we find communities that understand. Thank you so much for sharing ❤

[@olijacobs4465]

I'm finally submitting my writing places and working on making a sustainable writing routine focused on like. actual work instead of just hobby writing, and this video has reflected a lot of my struggles lol I've been in a bit of a writing slump. everything I write feels hard and bad. but these videos make me feel more relaxed. I've been watching your channel for years now and it's wild how you make videos that show up in my feed exactly when I need them.

[@Lisa_Flowers]

i'm so happy to see that you're genuinely doing better and being kind to yourself! there's not enough of that on KZbin imo. I have a lot of health issues, mental and physical, and no real access to treatment for any of them, so i've kind of been forced to learn that pushing myself or setting big goals doesn't work. All it leads to is burn out, resentment, self-loathing and worse health, and there's not gonna be anyone there to take care of me when that happens. I've finally started to believe myself when I say I can't do something at all or in a specific way, instead of assuming i'm being lazy or making excuses. I just know i'm not. And it isn't worth the flare ups or pain to push myself anymore. I've really started to depend on pacing, which has been helping enormously with my fatigue/mood issues and brain fog. I've kind of come to hate self help because I feel like most of it is designed for people who are neurotypical/ablebodied/not mentally ill, and as someone who is likely none of those things, trying to apply those principles to my life has led to (again) burnout, resentment, and self loathing.

[@catpawrosales4265]

Hear! Hear!

[@maryl7067]

This was such a nice long video to chill out to. So glad to hear you've been able to find some relief for your migraines and stomach issues. Both of those can turn your life upside down. And, it's scary when it seems like your body is turning on you. My migraines were absolute mind-flayers. Luckily, I figured out my trigger pretty quickly: saturated fat. The stomach problems are a different beast. I wish you well on figuring out your triggers. They seem to be so different for everyone. If you're interested: My stomach-friendly breakfast for a long time was oat cakes made with oats, 1 egg, a banana, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2-1tsp of baking powder, Orgain vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, pinch of salt, then blend smooth in a blender. You can add a little maple syrup (if it suits your tastes) or some milk (if it turns out too dry). They can be made in the microwave or baked in a ramekin. If your stomach can handle it, you can top it with a few chocolate chips. They can also be baked, frozen, and reheated at 70% power in the microwave. They're kinda like a healthy dessert-meal, and I looked forward to them every morning. (And, now I want one lol)

[@katherinewrites]

Kate, so good to see you on my feed again! I’m going to watch this in full later but just wanted to drop in and say your health is way more important than anything else. I suffer from stress-related IBSs and anxiety, and these days I have to prioritise keeping myself stress-free over everything else which, honestly, means my writing is often at the bottom of the to-do list, but I definitely suggest taking it easy when you can and then making the most of those moments your health is in good shape. Hey, now you’re on the tea, I need to find something to send you! Tea is power.

[@MaigaVidal]

I had a major accident this April where I couldn’t walk for three months (I’m finally better now!) and honestly that factory reset statement is so true. I remember feeling trapped in my body that day and all the weight and expectations drowning me and I blame that for my accident more than the wet tar in Brooklyn. Now when I feel that way, like I’m suffocating, I take a breath and start changing things to give myself more time and space, to take away the pressure because I can’t let myself get there again. It’s been a hard learning curve, but unfortunately (or fortunately!) a necessary one. Missed your videos and so happy you’re coming back in your own way. Will have to start using twitch again and drop in for a stream ❤

[@MartaCanPixel]

I used to do the 15-min eyebreak a lot when I worked from home, just spending 15 minutes between tasks tidying and cleaning! My house looks so much messier now I'm back to working in an office 😭😂 I'm so happy all of your new habits and routines and medications are working for you! 🥰 Also re: now posting once a week - I recently lowered my youtube-goal to trying to post once a month and I seem to be failing at doing even that 🙈😅

[@katendress6142]

Fun fact, I watched about half of this while craning my neck to see around my own little void who was sitting on the keyboard protector.

[@bookishsyd]

First of all, I’m so glad you’re feeling better both mentally and physically, that’s so nice to hear. I love the little mushroom mug you have, the one with the cover. And telling a cat ‘I’m sorry, you’re very cute but also very in the way’ and then changing your mind and getting out of the cat’s way is so relatable lol. I agree with the hand writing being so helpful. It not only gives my eyes a break, but it almost unlocks certain parts of my brain I feel are incredibly under stimulated. And I am also working off index cards! I had to reorder scenes from all over my current WIP, and the index cards, post its , page flags, and a trifold proved so valuable. I think I have the right order down, I just need to add a boatload of scenes. There were 33 spots I needed them, most of them with two or more. I realized I needed to draft those scenes in order to get a better picture of the reordering, so that’s good to know. I went way too fast through the mystery and it’s way too easy to figure out- my MC interviewed literally four people once and then the culprit is revealed. But before I write more interviews, red herrings, and re-interviews, I’m doin* main story scenes. It’s been…a process lol. Thanks for the video, and again I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself!

[@cyndercharmander]

love this video!!! so many coincidences with my own journey 😆i read Atomic Habits early this year, got back into yoga (and am sticking with it!), taught myself to be more honest with my body's needs and we even have the same cat socks lol! 🥰wishing you all the best with your own journey henceforth, Kate! 💫

[@nursinggeekgames8242]

Thank you for this very relatable video. I'm also wrestling with IBS. Migraines are finally under control with medication and eyeglass/lighting changes, and slowly I'm adding more foods back. I'm already on medications for other things that make my providers reluctant to add anything else for the IBS, so I'm attempting to manage it all with lifestyle. It's sort of working, but the terror of family functions and eating out is real. I'm glad your team was able to help you find medication to mitigate that. It gives me hope that, even if it's just an "as needed" med, that an option may exist to make those less of a stressor, because I know the stress just makes it worse. I'm envious of your ability to work from home. One of my other terrors is of having to flee from my classroom full of students to get to the bathroom. That tends to lead to just plain not eating, which doesn't help matters. So I've also been changing my lesson planning to have more group work in class which creates natural times for me to leave, so long as I don't need to actually flee with extra flee. With regard to writing, I started the summer ordering myself to take 2 weeks off. That turned into no writing at all this summer, which is a break I think I really needed. That said, I'm now worried I won't get back to writing at all with the start of the fall semester. We'll see how that goes, I guess. Just trying to get the basic physical stuff handled before work is daunting, so I doubt AM writing is going to be a thing. Getting up at 5 is hard enough. I don't think I can push it back to 4.

[@malintries]

this is such an important video and I love it - literally recently learned to set less "toxic" or word-count related goals and doing more time counting goals instead, PLUS learning to accept when life takes over I won't do much writing and that's OK from the start, both contributed to me being way more productive and in love with writing than before!

[@KateCavanaugh]

You said this so perfectly!! And it really is so helpful to know it from the start vs. having to try to make peace with it after the fact. Approaching it with that mindset makes the whole process more peaceful.

[@mirahall4736]

Wow I went through so many of these same changes out of tummy issues and need to reduce stress. I also took a step back from writing to be more gentle to myself and found the love for it creeping back as my body calmed. So so happy to see you hopefully feeling more at ease

[@traceymayhewauthor]

I’m also an author/youtuber who suffers with migraines and I have vascular problems - I’ve also recently discovered I may have gluten/wheat intolerance. Here in the uk though it’s almost impossible to get a doctor appointment so I’ve put myself on a gluten/wheat free diet and feeling much better for it. Goodbye stomach issues! So glad to hear you’re starting to feel better.

[@NotMolly-jf2rh]

Healing takes time and energy. Don't dog on yourself.

[@charmedvenuss]

I learned so much about myself when I learned I had autism that it literally reshaped how i approach my entire life. I'm actually writing now, drafting my first novel since 2016. Slow but steady, and I haven't given up on it yet or had a weird turn where i suddenly hate all of it! I've been using an hours worked method as well, where instead of planning out my writing i use a planner to track how many hours i gave it my best. Every bit of intentional time spent drafting has me closer than i've been in literal years and its very freeing.

[@daniellemarie2404]

Your vids always inspire me to get my lazy arse to write! However, it is 9pm at night and I know I have to get up at 5am to go to work tomorrow. May the internal conflict begin! I love the Void that is your cat! She has a 'Yes, worship me!" attitude that I love and respect! Your doggies are the cutest too!

[@sappholily]

same with me !

[@elizalagonia1049]

Whenever making lifestyle changes, it takes a long time. It took me 8 years to get onto a healthy moderation diet. In about 2 weeks, my twins will start kindergarten, and I know my writing schedule will change. Not sure into what, but I will only have 1 child home with me for about 6 hours. Yes, I'm counting the days. Right now my anxiety has been through the roof. I haven't had anxiety this uncontrolled for almost 20 years. Part of it is Post Partem Anxiety, some of it is current events, and some of it is just normal life with 3 kids stress. I'm being nice to myself.

[@MaureenAstrid]

Figuring out a way to eat that sits well with my IBS ... I'm 55 years now and it has been a struggle for so long, but these past 6 months I feel I'm finally getting somewhere. And it makes such an impact, positively, not having stomach aches all the time ❤ so, I can very ,ich relate to that. Acknowledging that creative writing is something I really need 100% for my balance, and joy that was also a very good change in my life, last year.

[@tylers3681]

That's so wonderful that you're taking time to be gentle with yourself 💖 I've had some major life changes recently, and I'm now at a place where I can now make writing *my career*, which is a little crazy for me to say. I don't know if I've said it aloud yet hahaha. I'm trying to figure out a routine or the semblance of one. I've got a toddler, and this is the first time I've ever had the freedom to write without the pressures and stress of job. Anyways, I'm figuring it out, and I'm trying to be careful to not burn myself out with something I love because that is a real fear of mine.

[@gemstonejasper17]

I get you so much. It's so hard to be realistic and gentle with yourself, especially when dealing with health issues. In mid December last year, my already chronic pain spread to my hands, wrists, arms, and elbows. Idk if it's related to NaNo or not. I've been to specialists and ruled out things like carpal tunnel, tendonitis, autoimmune issues, arthritis, etc. I've basically been told that it's a chronic issue that they don't have a solution for. My migraines have gotten more frequent in the past half year or so and last longer. My insurance only pays for 9 pills per month, which was already barely enough for me. So now i have to ration them. Not to mention my ADHD and the fact that I'm in another depressive episode. It can be so hard to set those gentle, realistic expectations for yourself. But it's so important

[@plumup]

Good for you! I’m so glad to see you bqck and that you're feeling better!

[@cassie_hart]

I'm so glad things are going better for you now - taking that time off to reset can be so important! I hit the wall recently, combined total burnout and midlife crisis lol so I'm currently in a reset period. Ditching all the things that no longer serve me, trying to be kind to myself, to lower my expectations of myself, to be realistic with what I can actually do vs what I want (and learning to celebrate those wins, no matter the size). it's a hard thing, but it looks like you're doing so great!

[@CodyTheWriter]

Hi Kate! First off, I love the chef Pikachu, and I need one IMMEDIATELY! I'm sorry to hear about the health concerns, but I am happy to see that you are being gentle with yourself as you adopt these new habits! You have always been an inspiration for me, and you are one of the reasons I decided to start my own channel! You are amazing :)

[@leannaandmariuspostma6250]

I love the one video/week as your goal because that will make it easier to keep up with you. As evidenced by my only finishing this video now! (3 tinies, it’s busy!) Also, I can only do fiction at bedtime because nonfiction is too upsetting! X-P

[@MakerFishmeal]

Please don't feel any pressure from this, but goodness I love seeing a new video from ya 💚

[@KateCavanaugh]

Aww no, I love hearing that so much! Thank you! :)

[@johntubbs6617]

My gentle goals for right now is to get organized. I have a ton of fiction writing craft books to organize which I have read them all already. Our job as fiction writers is to organize the Chaotic Universe and that applies to our writing as well. I think I learned more in the last 2 years since I started 8 years ago. There is so much to learn in this craft its really scary at times. I covered the 15 scene types, metaphoric writing (240 Categories and 113,000 figures of speech etc.). the 11 modes of writing, 9 narrative beats etc... and many other techniques. In a weird way they all start working together like a well-oiled machine when you build your vignettes once you pick up the craft in the right way. I thought I was ready to start like 3 years ago but hit a brick without the right tools we all need. A lot to do still, basically you have to use association diagramming on every stage of your writing (Check that technique out first) I wasted a lot of time so far without it. Writing is a very hard craft to master (If ever). That's my Anne Lammont moment here (Bird by Bird Son). You can do it - others have in the past,- learn from the masters. This is a rough draft here, but we find our stories re-writing them over and over in multiple drafts, don't forget that. first draft stories are a lie. It can't be done that way I needed to use association diagramming on this comment here, but time is limited at the moment.

[@SarahCahillWrites]

Loving the self-realization and steps to make a difference! I'm struggling with the same thing, and progress is slow, but at least there's progress!

[@labyrinthofallthings]

I'm so so glad Kate you are doing better. I truly understand where you coming from on the headaches. The awful tummy troublees I can't eat anything pickled because it gives me acid heartburn and even some spicy food. if I dare it which is not very often maybe get away with not gettin acid. Again that doesn't happen often. THe Migrains, those are so awful to deal with especially when you dont know what's triggered it Take good care of yourself. I'm glad that you are finding your groove for (yourself) on everything. I wish you nothing but absolutely all the best in getting your health in good zone. Big giant squishy hugs to you Kate. Vin she's a little rascal sitting on your notecards. lol Queen Vinn, queen of the michevious. Be safe and be well all of you over there.

[@happinesss2]

Health wise I’ve been okay physically but not at all mentally lol so thank you for this video on doing my best or feeling my best and trying to be okay with it…. My best sometimes really is just lounging on the couch with my negative emotions… I hope you feel better soon! Physical health is so important too so sending all the love and positive vibes ❤

[@FidinaQuery]

Katee, I can’t tell you enough how nice this video is to watch- thank you so much for making it!❤ word to word I resonate so much with what you said, especially with the stable streaming schedule, it had become the best part of my days. Was lowkey periodically checking the upcoming dates on twitch during your trip, so happy now that it’s back. And so so happy that you felt the same about loving your routine. Wishing you all my best with your health journey, thank you for being you,and thank you for being there for us❤❤ Sending you loveee❤

[@cherish6084]

I'm also working on a routine! Not to give you another to-to (or to-read) but based on some of what you've said about goals you might like Fierce Self-Copmassion by Kristin Neff. I use the shopzoki plushies (I have two lol) for heating pads when I need one! They are cute and I've had them over a year and they haven't stopped working (not paid to say that lol just really love them).

[@RellyMoring]

I’m so glad to hear you’re making progress with your health! Being chronically ill and trying to be productive in creative endeavours can be such a tricky combination sometimes. Unfortunately, my writing (and KZbin) is always the first thing to go when I’m struggling, so consistency is difficult! Have you tried migraine glasses (not blue light, rose-tinted specifically for migraine)? I just ordered some to see if they would help with my migraines and screen sensitivity. So glad to see you’re back to streaming, hoping to jump on today if you’re there!

[@Tamy-qo7oh]

Loved the video 😊 it makes me want to give routines another go XD I am also inspired by the idea of a factory reset. It's what I have been craving whilst facing an ever growing to do list. But I recently got the advice that not all things that seem important actually are that important and somehow hearing that felt so relieving. Like to know that some things will never get done and maybe they also don't have to.

[@MillaSch]

Hey Kate, great that you found ways to manage your health. For me it's pretty difficult to manage my writing with the half time job, chores and all the things around. I found a way to be more tolerant and forgiving to myself by working on some negative beliefs from the past. Since then I am sooo much more relaxed and happier. 😅 Regarding your migraines: some people told me their symptoms were almost gone by change to a vegan diet. It has not to be completely vegan but without dairy. Eggs seem not to be the problem. Not sure if this would be for you. But it might also help with the stomach problems. I just wish you to be healthy. ❤ So thankful for the health insurance in Germany....

[@johntubbs6617]

I can't stop writing today - In the last few months I picked up how to use vignettes and the four quadrants of the modes in fiction writing. Also like I said before, working on metaphoric writing as well, all of which are essential to good writing craft. I kind of understood intuitively some of this as just a reader but didn't realize the importance of these techniques.

[@kumiwrites261]

I too am struggling with the same thing. I have health issues regarding migraines, chest/stomach issues and now my shoulder is flaring up again I recorded my first authortube video slated to release August 1st, but I’m afraid that I won’t be accountable because right now all I want to do is just lay down and be on my phone. During the small windows of when I’m feeling good all I would want to do is play Elden Ring I do want to write if not an entire book half a book by the end of the year at least reach the first milestone since 2014 😅

[@suey-mybrainsapain4783]

Ohh Kate, Where do I start, I have been through quite a few changes in the past couple years big ones. I had two strokes in 2021 one in april and one in october I had to make some changes because I simply couldn't do the things I used to do anymore. Including writing creatively. I literally had to learn to do everything again from walking to talking to eating. I miss writing but you know what. I get to hang out with my favorite people and that makes me happy. The biggest thing I can say is not to let anyone tell you what you should or shouldn't be doing with your channel, your time and most importantly you! I am just happy to see a post from you and to see that you are doing better. I am also a migraine sufferer (left overs from the strokes) so I am very familiar. I would be most interested what medication you are on that has helped you. It is very sad that the IBD problems have been exacerbated by insurances but I am glad to hear that you are seemingly on the right path now xx So keep the chin up and carry on lovely whenever that may be .... I will be waiting 💜❤💜

[@ragdollrose2687]

Hi! Just a little headsup from a fellow chronically ill girly: tea is awesome, but be careful about overconsumption of black tea around mealtime. My doctor told me it might have been a factor for my iron deficiency cause black tea reduces iron absorption when paired with food. Just to make sure you don't add another health issue while trying to get better 🙁

[@timothyshaw5498]

Been insanely busy for who knows how long and seem to have missed the promotion of boyfriend to husband. Congratulations! 🎉🎉🎉

[@grapefry]

Loved seeing you in your silk bonnet. Let's normalize everyone wearing bonnets! RE heating pads: My sister got a cordless heating pad that's on a waist belt so it's PORTABLE! It's kinda fantastic lol. The brand is Yeamon on Amazon if you're interested. The only downside is that the battery life is about 2 hours.

[@JacquelinElizabethWrites]

Im also a writer/pet mom/chronically ill/F1 fan. Thanks for being you ❤️

[@K.S.Roberson.writesandreads]

Took me so long to get the tummy troubles under control. (Peppermint oil capsules help when I’m cramping really badly) Combined with postpartum preeclampsia it’s been a roller coaster.

[@NotMolly-jf2rh]

Howdy, Kate! Good to see you 😀

[@KateCavanaugh]

Thank youuuu! It's good to be back. :)

[@Heothbremel]

I definitely also need to work on gentle goals for myself.....

[@LaHormiguitaLectora]

Your videos are very inspiring❤

[@haybale287]

What's that you're pouring at 19:51? It has such an interesting color.

[@johntubbs6617]

I guess my gentle goal and realization at this point is its hard making a living at writing. It's a very small portion of writers that can do that, only 2 percent of MFA creative writing grads can even sell a manuscript etc... I just started studying metaphoric writing and my head is still spinning out of control (No pun intended). Anyway, the idea of a rough draft might explain the reality of it being a would-be writer as a career choice etc...Only the strong survive in this game, I figure by the time I learn all the tricks and techniques I'll be in a nursing home (LOL). Anyway, I blindly continue on in this madness anyway, because I love it. That's the main drive for me, why did I wait to 63 to realize this 🤤

[@AbiofPellinor]

One day, one day I'll actually get back to writing! But I don't want to force it

[@A_Bookish_Obsession]

Very unrelated but I just got one of those little mushroom mugs and I am obsessed. My roommate wouldn't let me get the other one I saw though 😢

[@lissamatthews]

I have those same raised beds!

[@KateCavanaugh]

I need to get another one!! I wanted to start with one but my tomatoes have far outgrown it bahaha.

[@Kat_Author2021]

I’ve heard that goat’s milk helps with your gut. I just got some today and I’m going to try it.

[@giuliaidiometri186]

Hi Kate, I'm sick in this period, too. Strong headachesm fainting etc. I have to take meds and do some tests. Could you do Livestreams even on YouTue, since I'm blind and I can't use Twitch, please?

[@KH-pw4vo]

missed you :)

[@TheKateGibbs]

imaging being in a corporate job and trying to find a new balance. it is so much harder for us dealing with tummy issues etc AND have to work all day for the corporate overlords. you are lucky to have the financial support to take the time to sort everything out without that added stress.

[@KateCavanaugh]

10,000%! I was really fortunate in the time that I was working corporate that my direct manager was super understanding of my migraines, but I know not everyone even has that level of support. :(

[@johntubbs6617]

I know many fiction fans worry about A.I. Programs taking over the writing game, but all it really does is mine crypto info on the net or storage devices (Basically steals human work) We can do the same thing with browsing dictionaries or other books etc. as prompts or triggering for ideas etc.. They gave Cassandra Clare a bunch of crap for that in her fan fiction stories, so why is it ok to lift material on the net in the same way by Artificial Intelligence etc. Maybe it ant to smart anyway Out of Here 😬