Our Full-Time Jobs Revealed: Life as a Blind Couple

[@CristinaSilimbani]

Hi guys! My husband has the same problem as Paul and is now unable to work. He still has a little bit of sight and uses it to take care of our house and of our three dogs. He sometimes struggles to keep his independence, but your videos are such an inspiration for us both to keep going, with a smile and lots of love. Thanks for sharing your stories. A big hug to you and a cuddle to Mr. Maple from Italy. Ciao!

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

If he can still cook, or learn how to cook as a sight impaired person, he could teach authentic Italian cooking on youtube and also have a patreon account for subscribers. Patreon pays better is why. It is the people who pay to see the videos that makes the most money. However, product placement also pays very well, but does not help get more subscribers. Thus, having only 2 product placement videos per month on youtube, but skipping patreon here, and then having all the other videos not have product placements, will help net you more viewers. Just an idea. Best Wishes!

[@CristinaSilimbani]

@@tpkyterooluebeck9224 He CAN actually cook ! I shared your comment with him and he told me to thank you for the idea, he will think about it. Ciao!

[@TSquare7741]

My sister has RP.

[@erintheer]

My money is on Matthew pranking/ scaring the bejesus out of nearly blind people for a living.

[@Mochiiscute]

😂😂😂

[@justcallmed933]

And you were absolutely right!😂

[@katpeden9255]

Your so positive about life and your videos are very uplifting 😂❤ thank u kindly for uploading 😂😂😂 omgosh Paul's face when u said tractor 🚜 bahahaha u 2 r to much I adore you 2

[@LawTaranis]

He isn't nearly blind, he is blind. Blind doesn't and has never meant "0% vision" it means a significant loss of vision.

[@brianjankowski7292]

That's what i been saying

[@OhMonSherri]

I would love for Matthew to do little mini performances with his violin from time to time . I think it would be amazing to see and hear.

[@ann07ps49]

I request Paganini... Sorry, can't hold it since I'm Two Set Violin fan 😅

[@MsTarotD]

I actually enjoy your content and find it so educational. Since watching you both, I felt encouraged to actually hired a person who is totally blind for a position in our program. She is actually the very first person in the country to be hired for such a position..She is excelling and we are working on opening more doors for other visually challenged individuals to be hired for this type of position.

[@katie18976]

That's so amazing, thank you for giving her a chance ❤

[@susanferretti5781]

That's awesome to hear. I'm glad that it was a good match for you both too.

[@erinmeyers-t9w]

ooh what's the job?

[@insidedianeslife2456]

Love it.

[@rombrana6311]

What was the position? I think by law we should prioritize everyone being able to be productive. Finding a job that works for someone who is blind is quite an accomplishment!!!

[@nachtorchis]

Paul looks into the camera and Mathew looks at the screen attached to the camera. It sometimes looks like Mathew is blind and Paul is not! haha. 😂

[@anicarose7770]

Im laughing, totally agree 😂😂

[@MubasshirAKhan]

Good observation. I too noticed that on this video.

[@okamifang4059]

100%😂

[@shruthimaniyodath7755]

OMG! Observed this too. They are such lovely people and complement each other❤

[@Summer-xw8xn]

Good observation

[@davidariamirroarkyoung]

I had a stroke several years ago and was almost completely blind. I had a very limited vision (I couldn't see my feet or the ground and walked into glass doors or furniture). I am a lapidarist and gemologist (I cut gemstones, and am a gemstone expert). People were very shocked that I continued cutting gemstones. I am very fortunate that a surgery was able to restore my vision after 4 years of being blind.

[@deborahbarry8458]

Do you use touch in lapidary?

[@davidariamirroarkyoung]

@@deborahbarry8458 Touch isn't used that much normally in lapidary. The minimum fine grit I use is 8,000 and up to 200,000. These are much finer then you can feel and is done with magnification. Since I couldn't see the level of polish I would touch the facets to my lips and know if it was smooth to go to final polish stages. I had a bit of vision in my right eye I could see if it was within 3 inches. What I could see was upside and mirrored. The final polish stages I would count how many passes in the wheel repeating it on each facet. Then I would use a microscope take pictures or stream the video live and hold a iPad with in three inches of my eye. I was extremely light sensitive and everything was so ¹bright Since I regained my vision I still use my lips to feel how smooth, it is the right smoothness on lips I use the magnifier for fine details. The experience made me a better lapidarist. Also I don't turn lights on unless I'm working on a gemstones. I will walk around in dark and so regular tasks in the dark as well. I got used to not being able to see, and learned how to do many things without the need for lighting...

[@davidariamirroarkyoung]

@@deborahbarry8458 Many people don't use touch in the lapidary arts, however even though I have gained back my sight (surgeries after a few years of not being able to read a license plate at 5 feet, is actually almost 20/20 now), I still check the texture on my lips to check for rough spots.

[@davidariamirroarkyoung]

@@deborahbarry8458 not so much for most lapidarist. I learned to use my lips to see how smooth each facet was. I also had very limited vision and what I could see was like almost everything was opalized, colors mixed into each other without clear boundaries. This was the hardest part learning what the colors would be like. I have a collection of gemstones that I loved and prized. I learned to compare the stones I was cutting to those stones that I knew before the stroke. This was how I continued cutting gemstones while almost completely blind. I will say I liked playing video games before but no longer, and the best gemstone that I ever cut was when I was at the worst point of my vision. The surgeon was shocked at how much of my vision they were able to restore. I still am a bit light sensitive and tend to walk around my house with the lights out, in pitch black, I got used to colors bleeding into each other being extremely light sensitive and doing things without sight. I will most likely if I live long enough go blind again and I'm okay with it actually. I got to see my son's graduate college and I will never forget the faces of those I love, that was what I feared most. I don't need more than that...

[@dugald56]

Hey! I was driving tractors when I was seven! That’s what happened if you were a farmer’s son when I was a boy in the early sixties! Never crushed a bush either. Good for you making a living out of being creative. So hard to do. Fantastic that you have evolved it.

[@floatingdaisy3256]

That’s impressive that you never crushed a bush! I worked on an alfalfa field just for a summer during college and miss the fresh air and sunshine. What crops did your family farm grow?

[@mtnjhutch]

I started driving at age 10, in the late 70’s. That is what happens when you’re raised on a farm and you’re a girl, with no brothers.

[@Mica-24]

My mom grew up that way. Pretty much anything the adults did the kids did too

[@kathyborthwick6738LakotaEmoji]

Same here and I was a young 6 yr old driving dad’s tractor 🚜 ! 🍁🌾🍁🌻🍁🌽

[@jcortese3300]

Matthew, PLEASE play a little something for the camera, even just an etude. We'd love to hear you!

[@pandorakew]

Paul, when you inevitably make the transition to words only books, you’re going to SHINE. think about how beautiful your visual creations are now with your limited vision. i can totally see you painting just as beautiful pictures with your words. being an artist is who you are, vision or no vision. that will never be taken away from you ❤

[@YayWei320]

WOOO! Fellow violinist here! I had no idea, Matthew! How cool! I never made it to the pro level, too rough, and now I'm a doctor lol.

[@Cinnamonbearcdc]

I feel your pain Matthew. 😂 My first "job" was cutting paper bags of asparagus for family friends. $5 every full bag. It was '78 and I was almost 7. 🤣🤣 I thought I had it made.

[@katburns3873]

1978.... 5 dollars! Think you had made it 😂

[@BellaRush-yg2ui]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@a.b.creator]

So, we've all worked since we were 12? Glad to know it was universal. 😊

[@cjp592]

I think Paul can be a PR person for an organization may it regular or for a visually impaired organization and be their public or marketing person. He definitely has the potential. I like the words he uses. I like his demeanor. His projection. He looks confident but not obnoxious.

[@mikeomalley5407]

Paul, When you asked Matthew if he received the money for his child labor 😂, I remember being a paperboy for a local newspaper. Every week, I would go to the bank, with my paper passbook for my savings account and deposit my pauper cash.

[@lilbutterfly6977]

Content creators or not, these platforms have given us the opportunity to see & get to know the two of you. You two bring us so more joy & laughter seeing the love & relationship y'all share. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives!

[@MatthewandPaulOfficial]

Wow, thank you!

[@alejo18054]

I would love to see Matthew play some of his favorite pieces on the channel! Great video, guys!

[@WinterIsWelcome]

I was thinking the same thing! Would love to hear some of his music!

[@mariezurie7828]

I believe Matthew said he'd released some on KZbin or Instagram.

[@suebrooks1904]

As long as you are happy in what you both do...that's what matters. Wishing you both many happy years ahead

[@jerrihadding2534]

You two make SO many things PERFECTLY “ordinary and normal” that are essential to the reality of everyone’s lives. This is an extraordinary gift! Bless you.

[@ResidentialYenta]

Never stop creating, Paul. Your work is so beautiful and brings so much light and joy to all those who enjoy it. 🎨 🖌

[@rokukou]

I came from your shorts, I love the candid and genuine feel of your channel, and of course the education! You are doing much good for the world!

[@MiriamNone]

I was picking apricots. I could eat as much as I wanted, but after a few days or weeks, I really didn't want to anymore. Even now, some 20 years later, I still hate apricots.

[@IngeDemmendaal]

That was the entire setup about you being allowed to eat apricots to your heart's content. It only goes so far. Same thing happens to kids helping out in a bakery, allowed to eat cookies all day long. After a short time indulging themselves, they loath cookies for the rest of their lives.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Matthew and Paul being the Struggling Arts Rep I’m happy to see every week ❤

[@valihura]

You guys are the most holesome and adorable couple I've seen on KZbin 😍 Your content brings so much joy and really helps to get through the rough times! Much love from Ukraine 💙💛

[@MubasshirAKhan]

Paul's speaking skills compensates for his lack of vision. He does most of the talking. It is nice how both complement each other.

[@HorseLady1109]

You two are so wonderful together. Your affection and respect for each other comes shining through. 😊

[@IltOutsiders2017]

Please make a Maple plushie.

[@deliamak]

yes!!! 😍

[@marsom3410]

Yes!! Great idea!!

[@alarocker]

There’s one with Paul’s new book if you preorder!!!!

[@IltOutsiders2017]

@@alarocker what new book? Please link it?

[@charmgld]

@@IltOutsiders2017it’s part of a new book on astrology. I’m simplifying it but it’s beautiful. See their website under their description

[@geraldgoyette2676]

Hey guys another great video. Being that I'm an old timer my very first job was working at an old time dept. store called W.T Grants, maybe some old timers it. My job was to be behind a counter with a microphone and try my best to get people to come to my counter to buy peanuts, cashews etc.I was so shy back then and so embarrassed I only lasted one day.

[@Justlov4]

OMG Paul I could totally see you being an actor. I love that you got some commercials. But I love your art so I'm glad you moved over to art. I'm also an actor but I was mostly onstage at 12. I've heard Matthew play the violin in one of your other videos. Gorgeous. I would love to hear you play more violin. I love that we are all struggling artists. But it must be so rewarding to see your art selling so much Paul and absolutely deserved. I love your art. I love watching all your videos and you do it very well

[@firefilll]

That is a great picture you two could be models

[@Crazyreviewer123]

I can actually see that happening someday they both look very nice together and well dressed

[@olracnaigodaniep3816]

My money is on Paul saying: “MATTHEWWWW!!!” So many times!!! Too adorable

[@viiru870]

Good for you for having found your passion early in life! Im just struggling to try to think of a new career as my sight is getting worse (I have RP too). Good luck to all of who are living with a disability and wondering how to support yourself, you are not alone!❤❤❤

[@kplum101]

I love you both so much. When I get so sad I just watch you. You are both so happy and joyful it just makes me smile. Thank you for the uplifting emotions you put into the world.

[@paolam.p.4075]

Matthew is a professional prankster too

[@francesbaldwin2526]

Love these two. They are such fun. And great that they discuss pails blindness so easily.

[@mirandadewey9998]

Have you thought of trying ceramics or other sculpting mediums? Things you can get your hands on.

[@clairehill408]

You two make my day, just seeing the love you share is beautiful. I wish you both the very best

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Omg I’m so excited for Paul in his (future) Novelist Era. Good luck!

[@tameekaforde2209]

This is very educational. My best friend has lost her vision very quickly over the last few years due to diabetes and blood pressure issues. Her retina separation from the eye and pressure build up. She does have a lot of the services that I’m seeing Paul getting which is a shame. I love seeing Paul soo happy for even the little things in life. It makes me feel that who am I to complain about anything when my friend and Paul are living life smiling even with the things that life has thrown at them. Thank you for sharing your life experience. ❤❤❤

[@murielmacdonald9611]

I love watching your creations. Note from ont

[@kandipiatkowski8589]

Pranking is a full time job for Matthew......😅😅😅

[@VioletEmerald]

It really is now.

[@spacelasertech8359]

"Pranking the Blind for Fun and Profit" would be a very catchy book title.

[@lindalove831]

The absolute joy that this incredible couple exudes is so infectious, Paul could dwell on the things he doesn’t have instead he focuses on all the things he does have. Paul you simply shine, and together with Matthew you two go “super nova”. Your love for each other is so obvious ! ❤️❤️

[@BlueGlow26]

I wish more was shared about how they started their TikTok and KZbin, and how Matthew got into video making

[@cd2290]

Paul! I am a technology educator. There are such great tools that are emerging in the AI world for text to image. I can imagine there is/will be something robust enough to help assist you in creating your art from what you have created so far!! Be sure to check into this and stay updated on what’s developing. I know the creative/humanities space is feeling threatened by generative AI, but some are embracing it and finding new ways to collaborate and create.

[@EthanLomas]

I did not know much about you two until I watched this. I am really surprised about Matthew as he looks like one type of person, but he is actually a really nice person. I can see why they make a great couple :)

[@Katfancy40]

I think I know what you mean by one type of person. They kinda remind me of Will and Jack from Will & Grace yet Paul is actually kind! This couple is so adorable and of course they're both artists in their own right and I love watching them so much! Especially Paul and sweet Mr. Maple!

[@deborahstoudt4740]

Watching your videos makes me so happy and cheers me up when I’m down! Thank you 💕💕

[@deniseledbetter6091]

I am so glad that I have found the two of you on KZbin.

[@kimwilliams1812]

❤ Have you ever taste Wild Blueberries! They are more sweeter then growing them in your garden.

[@Mallorymomoftwo]

You two are so full of joy and energy and it’s fun to watch!

[@tracyhay8765]

I love watching your videos. Paul’s laugh, smile and joyful nature makes me happy. ❤

[@berna0403]

I love your warm pleasant personalities and how you find humor in everything. Such a joy to watch. And you're both so handsome too. Love from Hawaii

[@deesweden]

Matthew, i distracted by your hair... 😅 Along the video on, i was thinking "how can that hair so perfectly stay with a perfect line?" then I started to look at Paul... Then my thought was walking around and thinking "what is my 1st job" i don't remember. Suddenly the video was finish. And i have to started over... 🤭 . Anyway... I love your videos. Thank you for sharing stories and laughs

[@LB-wt1oj]

Agreed! They are both so beautiful 😍 😍

[@brayanandrey5549]

I would love to see Mathew playing the violin some times, or put the music for the background of videos... Like depending the occasion, fast or slow music.... That would be great and we can know your music and talent as well as we know Paul's. Hi from COLOMBIA!!

[@Hollybank5]

You are both so talented !! First and worst jobs always bring back such memories ! I can’t even imagine how frightening that must have been to be attacked 😮 I hope you weren’t badly injured 🙏. 😘

[@TheAlexstiles]

You guys are both so lovable, hilarious and GORGEOUS!!! Keep up the good solid work 😘

[@lucyjanecruz]

@Paul, you should make art for touch. Make a book where the illustrations are to be felt. Or paintings for touching.

[@lindabeisner8692]

I absolutely love you two! You're funny and interesting and you seem soooooo compatible! Did I also mention how handsome you both are? And Mr. Maple completes your family so perfectly ❤ Thank you for brightening my day with your videos!

[@TheSamnesiac]

You’re both so happy to be in your own Crystal Maze Dome of one dollar bills! 😃 ❤️ ❤️

[@dothedo3667]

Are you guys ever going to make the extended cuts available (at a delay) for all of us who can't pay?

[@Raccoon_Mama.]

I just wanted to say I LOVE LOVE LOVE your content and you're both lovely guys!

[@AndreaLB]

I’m grateful that you came to KZbin because I would never have seen you otherwise. I don’t like TikTok. So thank you for coming to KZbin!!!!!

[@CatalinaCNV]

Guys, have you considered creating products that are not physical for your audience outside the shipping areas?

[@FoxLightstep]

Finding such a loving partner despite your disability is such a treasure. I'm physically becoming more disabled and there's no reason for it (so sayeth all the tests I've endured). I've tried to be a content creator, but I just don't have the drive for it. I would love to continue my VO career, but one of my kids does school from home so it's hard to find a silent time of day to even record simple things. Perhaps that's something Paul can do in the future when he can no longer see?

[@beckydunn8059]

So fun to learn your first and current jobs. My first job (30 years ago) was at a pet store and now present day I work at the SD Human Society. I guess animals have been my life!! And I love it!!

[@dramonmaster222]

You two are so sweet and wholesome.

[@JennMiller]

My first job was a paper route. Unfortunately, because I had to "buy" the papers from the newspaper company and a lot of times my customers wouldn't pay me, I think I just barely broke even - and that was mostly due to the kindness of people who gave me a little more as a tip.

[@absolutesoul2860]

my first job was at burger king, I was paid 6.12€ an hour. mcdonalds paid only 6€ an hour. only 1 other schoolmate worked at BK with me. mcd's was closer, so more popular, but I wanted the higher pay and didn't mind riding my bike the extra 5min 😂

[@Pisti846]

I never understood the whole grey font on an off-white background. Why not just black type on a white background? It would be better for everyone.

[@pusheen9444]

Not everyone… people with irlen sydrome (including myself) need an off white background otherwise it’s impossible to read

[@wandagreer2551]

And my best reading environment is blue print on a yellow background. Not everyone "sees" the same. That's the truth behind these videos. If you don't "get" why some people need different tools to read, congratulations. You aren't blind ... yet.

[@Lynnmb5]

Would love to see videos of Matthew playing the violin! 😊

[@happywanderer6307]

You said to click on the little square if we are you tube watchers. I did that and it said it was for patrons only.

[@nara-paris-girl]

"When I was in high school, I worked part-time watering the impressive garden next door. It paid around 30,000 yen per month, which was about $125 US dollars at the time. It was a very enjoyable job because there was no need to work when it rained.

[@MsLulu-jr4on]

You guys are a very lovely couple. Please never change 💙

[@magnoliasmile1]

You are both so handsome - and with wonderful personalities. Doubly blessed.

[@julievanderleest]

Wow, my first job was at a video store as well. Loved that job! At that time we did have DVDs. They had VHS but I believe the newer movies were DVD only or some may have had both. I don’t remember. This was back in 2002-03. My senior year of HS. I feel old now,😂

[@EvieVermont]

I watch your channel for educational purposes and for fun. Love you two!❤

[@ladydrea]

FYI, we now need to hear Matthew play!

[@lisastenzel5713]

I think there have a video on here where he plays a little bit. But definitely we see his violin a few times. It was date night or valentine's day?

[@erinmalone2669]

Child blueberry picking sounds so wholesome. It’s sounds like a Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer summer😊

[@Katfancy40]

Idea 💡 Paul could write and illustrate a children's book about Matthew picking blueberries!!!

[@jeannettefrye5086]

I love Matthews voice, and I love Pauls laugh. Lots of love here folks👍👍😉⭐💖

[@AlyGSpirit]

I just opened youtube, thechurchbell rang for19.00 o clock n i see livestream starts 😮❤😊

[@allyalligator1928]

You're the best thing that has happened to social media. PS. Love your puppy 😊

[@sangeethashiva3221]

Loved watching this. ❤❤❤ Stay blessed and happy always

[@elizabeths1051]

I love blueberries! 🫐 😋 And I’m a violinist. 🎻🥰

[@nashe1462]

Paul, with the new Ai speech to art, you can keep doing your books even later than you think.

[@carriehollyland3596]

I mainly work retail. But on the side I am also an artist/photographer. I set up at local art shows/craft fairs mainly. I also do some art/photography for friends/family as well. Art wise i mostly do drawings and paintings, but i can also crochet and scultp clay. Photography I will take pics of just anout anything, but i mostly love nature photography, especially of birds and landscape. I've done a few wedding photo shoots as well. I am also a service dog handler as well.

[@stevehofmaster4292]

Really enjoyed this you guys,my first job was at a restaurant nothing very fun or exciting😅😅 love to you guys and hugs to Mr. Maple.

[@SO_DIGITAL]

Hey guys. I was reflecting on how cinemas can create movie experiences specifically for visually impaired persons. Paul, I'd love your opinion on these ideas. With digital projection technology, it may be possible to project an ultra-bright, high-contrast, black-and-white image. It might also be possible to add deliberate motion blur or additional image additions to enhance motion tracking of fast-moving screen action. The sound can be turned down slightly to bring out all fine nuances and dynamic range. For persons who would like it, small earphones can be provided. During the movie, a voice on these earphones will deliver descriptive words in 1-second intervals according to a pattern, noun, adjective, verb, noun, adjective, verb and so on. The choice of a fixed interval will make it easier for a person to ignore the descriptive voice should they wish to focus on the dialogue.

[@SO_DIGITAL]

Had more ideas, using a 3D projector you can multiplex an image for the visually impaired and a regular image together. Relevant viewers use the appropriate glasses for the view they require. (2D of course). Flies away. I'm an engineer. Sorry.

[@AnicaL-z1y]

Yayayayay so excited!!!!

[@TheCgmullen]

14 minutes and 35 seconds of wonderful entertainment. Thank you, it was pure pleasure.

[@loripawlowskireitsma9259]

When I was in 6th grade, in 1969, my parents bought an Ice Cream Stand, kind of like a Dairy Queen, but better, we got paid, $25 a week during the summer. One time, my Dad, signed the check as, 'Try and cash me'. I didn't notice till the bank teller won't cash it. I still have that check dated 9-6-73

[@nancyberta4116]

Matthew, do you still play the violin regularly (if even just for yourself and Paul)? I’m sad if you don’t because I so much enjoy listening to you on Spotify.

[@karenlight566]

I was picking strawberries at age 5, unfortunately, I was fired after the first week as I was eating as many strawberries as I was picking, I think they told me that I had eaten my wages in strawberries and I never got a paycheck 😢

[@starlight470]

Oh, I hate time zones. How can this live start at 2 am? 😭😭 I want to watch it, but you know, I'm probably already asleep 😭

[@aprilgaisford6017]

I feel you

[@1trueloveforever]

You two are super adorable . I'm so enjoying these videos 🤩🥰

[@hollinorton6890]

It's 'Dirty Dancing' ... this is your dance space, this is my dance space. ❤❤❤

[@StanWatt.]

My first job was picking potatoes with a squad of other kids. We started as ten year olds every October for two to three weeks. It was back-breaking work. With modern regulations, farmers would never be allowed to do it. Kids were walking around with back problems for weeks lol.

[@jncchang176]

Yeah, I driver my Dad's truck at 8 year old. That's life.

[@doryinsanime6862]

I love all your videos together just loving, supporting,funny,cute couple.I love this.

[@linapraychantara8546]

Y'all just came up with the idea for the next book!❤

[@Shaytan.666]

A story about a Farm boy falling in love with a boy who's starting his tv star career would be cute Mainstream but cute

[@ailanisd8594]

Do you have any of your artworks around your home? Would love to hear a little violin work!! Music has a way of relaxing me.

[@stacycamacho59]

😂😂😂 I would have never thought you two were living here in Washington. If you get a chance to go see the murals in Toppenish.. east side of the Cascades..

[@chocolate-pyrus8916]

Love hearing you guys try dutch babys! They're a breakfast staple in my family! 🥰🥰