The inability (or 'failure,' as seen by others) to get things done has different ramifications for men and women. As a husband (the one with chronic pain), I can be seen as non-supportive of my wife and/or lazy. For wives, there is a similar but at the same time different stigma attached to how we handle our battle. To answer your question more succinctly though, Suz, I sometimes have to rely on supplements (in addition to my pain meds - mainly Norco) to get the energy and even will to get up and get things (something... anything... ) done. The one I go to most often for that "boost" is a sublingual B-Complex vitamin. It works miracles for me (for about 2 hours or so), and others I have recommended this too have had similar results. Hope this helps!

@A MyFibroTeam Member: I totally know what you mean about having the daily tiredness/pain in living with FM, and yet having so many chores to get done each day. I'm struggling to finish unpacking my new apartment, a little at a time, while having so much exhaustion/soreness/pain. My granddaughter's birthday is today, so instead of going out with the family for the birthday dinner this evening, my daughter will bring me a restaurant meal, and we will have the birthday cake at my apartment.

I've moved to the same state as my married daughter and her family; only seven miles from them, and I am feeling truly blessed. She prepared her in-laws, sister-in-law, and me, a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, and sent a plate of food home with me to enjoy the next day. I too am ordering some Christmas gifts online, and will have my daughter pick up gifts for the grandchildren from me. She will again provide the Christmas meal at their home.

It's so important to pace ourselves, with FM, and I have CFS/osteoarthritis too, but with the holidays, it's hard not to over-do activities. Suzy, have your family help you with the chores as much as possible. We just have to let some go, until we feel more like doing them. Stores offer pre-made holiday meals for sale, so that's a thought. I even saw a gift card for such a meal. That would make a wonderful gift for someone with chronic health problems.Bob Evans Restaurants have delicious turkey/ham, etc. family meals, that can be to-go. I've ordered those a few times.

I take extra Vitamin B-12 daily, (dissolve under the tongue), and it does increase my energy/ endurance some,(in addition to a multi-vitamin). I also take extra magnesium citrate, with calcium citrate, for the same reason. . Lots of older people are deficient in vitamins/minerals.

Have a wonderful Christmas, and New Year's Day with your family. Take care.:

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A MyFibro...

Just thought of another idea! Do you have a couple of friends you could ask over and have a tree decorating party? I have a couple I could call if I needed and I’m sure they’d help plus have a few laughs while they do it!! I hope this may help you! Good luck!

I do not put up anything , my kids are grown and out , as i do not even cook , gave the big spoon to my daughter ! i just can't i am not going to hurt my back for all of them !i have been cooking since 15 years old ! love peace joy Smooches Pooches

@A MyFibroTeam Member,
I agree with you totally. I can't do what I once did. It's a high price to pay after the holiday,

when the body flares in pain.
Acceptance is key, for me. I love Christmas but,
It will be a "smaller" version of Christmas! xoxo, Nancy