The Old Lady in my Bones
When I was in my thirties, I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I started this blog to share my experiences living with RA, and how I live my best life in the face of chronic disease.
The rain pelts against the window and the painted leaves dance with wild abandon in the autumn winds. The summer has long left us, that scorching dry heat forgotten in the dark misty mornings that greet us when we wake, and the early arrival of twilight. It is the time where the animals take shelter for their annual winter nap, and I tuck into the quiet comfort of my life as it stands today. October is the harvest season, a…
Read MoreThe cooler wetter months can be challenging to those of us living with arthritis and other chronic conditions. The sudden shift in the temperature, dark mornings, and dusky evenings make the joints a little stiffer, giving us more fatigue and a bit more pain as Mother Nature tries to settle into her new role. As the fall rains come down in the misty mornings of September, we mark this month in two ways – the change in seasons and Arthritis Awareness Month.
Read MoreOne year ago, my husband and I said to hell with Covid and decided to get married – so we did. One year later, we are celebrating our anniversary in…
Read MoreCorkboards and Coffee Houses
Welcome to my coffee house. This blog is about my writing life - the challenges, the success, the creative process and pushing through the blocks. This is my catapult to inspiration, a space where I can strengthen my writing muscles and share some insights on my process. So get comfortable, grab a hot cuppa, and let's talk about writing.
I was always afraid the call for submissions were rare beasts that would only cross my path when the sun, moon and stars had properly aligned, and if I didn’t jump on it in that moment, I would have forever lost my opportunity. This is far from true – in reality, the writing world is not so much a world as it is a huge universe teeming with opportunities for submissions. It really comes down to timing – having the right piece at the right time.
Read MoreSometimes a writer needs a quiet space, a place to escape the constant barrage of technology and uproar that make up a big part of our lives. It’s a chance…
Read MoreIf You Like What You See
Some people have inquired if there’s a place to donate on my blog. This is for those who would like to offer extra support for my work and I thank you for this.
A bigger thank you to all my readers who offer ongoing support simply by stopping by for a visit. I enjoy writing and interacting with you.
About me
J.G. Chayko is a writer, actress, and international arthritis advocate who’s been involved in theatre for more than 30 years and has published poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction.