THIS AND THAT.

September 5, 2020 91 Comments

LIFE.

Does it just get HARDER or MORE PAINFUL?

I was doing SO WELL on my EPISODE FREE PROGRAM.SIX MONTHS AND NO EPISODES!

THEN BOOM one recent day I got up from a nap and started to prep dinner and the eyes went at the stove…..I got myself to a mirror (one of four mirrors in my kitchen) to see if I could see anything happening with my pupils.

NOTHING.

The headache arrived for the rest of the night.

AUGUST 26 th a Wednesday I saw my chiropractor and told him what had happened.He adjusted me and we were both bummed.This time the adjustment hurt they never hurt………and hurt is the wrong word.The body felt something.I had a BIG EPISODE THAT AFTERNOON.Eyes went over 10 minutes and I couldn’t walk.What was depressing to me AGAIN was the fact I have never had an EPISODE AFTER I HAVE SEEN THE CHIROPRACTOR!

The ITALIAN wanted me to write my MEDICAL DOCTOR…………I SCREAMED NO back at him!The idea of bringing those people back into my LIFE was down right DEPRESSING.

I went back on my word and wrote her the next day.As I had done one of those LIFE LINE SCREENING Tests……….

I had the results which they tell you to share with your doctor.And since two things needed further investigation I wrote.After telling her about the bone density and the blood flow in my left leg I mentioned the EPISODES had come back and that maybe I should see an ORTHOPEDIC doctor who could take an X-ray of my neck as my neck lately is so sore.

Here is her reply…….I don’t know what the 0.832 is referring to
Sorry to hear about the episodes
I ordered an xray of the neck for you – you can come in to the radiology department during business hours to get this done
Take care

” I DON’T KNOW WHAT THE 0.832 is referring too?”

“SORRY…….”

Nothing about seeing an Orthopedic but I got an X-ray!

F***KING AMAZING!

Please excuse my poor taste in WORDS but if you have been with me from the BEGINNING YOU GET IT!

Below is what they found out about my neck……..

** FINDINGS **:
“Sheila body heights are maintained. There is grade 1 anterolisthesis of C4 on C5 and C5 on C6. Facets are normally aligned. There is moderate loss of disc height at C5-6. There is moderate loss of disc height at C7-T1. There is moderate left facet arthropathy at C3-4 and moderate right facet arthropathy at C4-5. Prevertebral soft tissues are normal.

I have ordered an MRI to look at the bones and blood vessels more closely

Please book online through the link I sent you.”

WELL NOW I HAVE SOMETHING WRONG AND THEY MOVE FAST AS ITS WITHIN THEIR BOX!

THE NEXT DAY I WAS GIVEN AN MRI.

Here is my doctors response to me.

Hi Elizabeth,
Your MRI shows arthritis in the spine but nothing abnormal with the blood vessels or spinal cord. The arthritis would cause pain in the neck possibly radiating down your arms but it would not cause the dizzy spells you are having:

MRI
1. No significant cervical spinal canal narrowing or cord compression. No suspicious abnormal enhancement is seen. Specifically, the C1/2 level appears unremarkable.
2. C-spine DJD is as described. This includes moderate left C3/4 foraminal narrowing.

If you feel the chiropractic work helped in the past you may follow up with him as you see fit
Please let me know if you have questions. Thank you

First off I have NEVER USED THE WORDS DIZZY SPELLS to describe MY EPISODES.THAT is NOT WHAT HAPPENS TO ME…….I bet you ALL can remember……..I LOSE MY VISION NOT A BLACK OUT BUT I CANNOT FOCUS AND THEN I FEEL LIKE I WILL PASS OUT.THIS LASTS FROM 2 MINUTES TO 10 minutes and comes with ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING!

At the end of the 4 year duration of having these EPISODES they were coming about every 4 days.

I tell you about them as YOU ALL helped me so much!THANK YOU!

Plus its a good way for me to keep track of what was.

Let’s NOT HARP ON ANYMORE just know it is NO WAY TO LIVE………

I HAD SIX MONTHS OF SHEER BLISS…………..”sheltering in place.”

THANKS COVID-19.

Let’s move on to some FUN things!

If you follow me on INSTAGRAM I shared a few of my OUT OF THE BOX ideas.

Paper towels in Champagne buckets……….good if wall space is limited.

Wine coaster under tea cup just easier to carry from point A to point B.

French TIE-BACKS I LOVE THESE THINGS SO I USE THEM AS HOOKS for HATS AND JEWELRY!

Remember that little RAT who lived in my kitchen?

Well, seems his COUSIN came to co-habitat with us!

IT is a GOOD LIFE with FRUIT on the TABLE and AVOCADOS which this little guy enjoyed!

HE WAS A NOISEY BUG chewing at night!

Seems he was living between the cabinet and the wall!!

TIGHT SQUEEZE IN THERE!

HE IS NO MORE!

THAT THEODORE SHOULD GET A SPANKING!

THE CAT BRINGS GIFTS AND LEAVES THEM DEAD OR ALIVE!

YOU KNOW I COULD NEVER DO THAT!

TO this ADORABLE CREATURE WHO IS A LOVER 10 TIMES OVER!

GUESS WHAT?

I have another NEW BLOG to SHARE with YOU!

DO you recall MEL.BARCELONA who was one of my AGELESS STYLE BEAUTIES?

Well, she is writing a BLOG which is so rich with Fashion, Bloggers and Shop Owners from around the world.

In fact she INTERVIEWED ME for her VERY FIRST POST!

I would LOVE for you to check it OUT!

Leave her a comment at the end of her blog just keep scrolling down like HERE to comment!

TO VISIT ISABEL CLICK HERE!

Off you go to a world of color and WONDERMENT!

LAST but not LEAST is my BUDDY SANDRA SALLIN……..AGE 80!

From her INSTAGRAM account she was contacted by THE LONDON SUNDAY TIMES to be in their STYLE MAGAZINE this coming SUNDAY, the 6th of SEPTEMBER.I am certain she will put the article on HER BLOG

Which you can subscribe to HERE so it will drop MYSTERIOUSLY into your inbox!She is talking about MAKE UP in the video she did for THE LONDON TIMES …………..BELOW!

A FOUR minute video it’s FANTASTIC!

By the way I purchased the NARS eyelid primer and BOY IS THAT A GEM of a product!

The eyeshadow stays vibrant ALL DAY!

I LISTEN to SANDRA……………….you may want to ALSO!

91 Comments

Leave your reply.

cindy
· Reply

October 2, 2020 at 7:40 AM

So proud of Sandra and I am hoping you have discovered the problem with your episodes…too much leaning & reaching. Would they recommend physical therapy? I wonder if that would help!
ellie's friend
· Reply

September 12, 2020 at 11:47 AM

that should read “when the problem” occurs. sorry for typos.
Ellie's friend
· Reply

September 12, 2020 at 11:45 AM

Cara Elizabeth,

Just a thought — do you have an oximeter? It’s what you put on your finger to measure your oxygen levels and pulse. I suggest when you feel weak or like blacking out, test your oxygen level at that moment. An oximeter only costs about $40 Cdn (so should be less American). It might give some insight to you and at least confirm your oxygen levels are ok when third problem occurs.

Just because a doctor can’t think of what’s wrong doesn’t mean everything’s okay. Usually, doctors have to rule possibilities out. I wonder since you’ve gone gluten free if you might have nutritional deficiencies
in B12, perhaps folate too. When my folate levels are low I lose hair and it turns grey. A lot of foods wuth gluten are supplemented with folate but if you cut those out, perhaps your folate is low.

Just some thoughts — I’m sorry to hear that these episodes have recurred.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 14, 2020 at 11:07 AM
  
  NO I do not have one of those.That would cause me MORE ANXIETY I THINK.CONSTANTLY CHECKING and I wouldn’t be able to READ it during an EPISODE!THANK YOU for the idea…………….I have had all those LAB TESTS DONE A FEW TIMES by different doctors too NO DEFICIENCIES.
  Iam GLUTEN in tolerant have been told this past year so NO on Celiac by a lab test.
  I have been Gluten Free BEFORE it was FASHIONABLE………headed towards 20 years I believe.I donot eat EAT ALOT of anything anymore especially GF ITEMS.NEVER HAVE AS THEY TASTE HORRIBLE IN GENERAL however the last few years the BAKING HAS COME ALONG LONG WAY!!!!!!!!!!I do have two pieces of toast in the morning and lately have discovered FLOURLESS BREAD which I can TOLERATE TOO and its SO GOOD!
  Since writing the Blog Post I have been Episode FREE………….so that’s over two weeks I think!
  Lets just refer to this as THE HICUP!
  BIG HUG,
  XX
home before dark
· Reply

September 11, 2020 at 12:45 PM

I am so very saddened that The Evil One has returned. Worst of all there is this stupefying lack of interest/coordination of tests. Mind Boggling.Wish there were someone out there who was a brilliant diagnostician who could look at all of your history and see in a flash the problem. I do think there is that kind of person out there. I’m not at all religious, but I do believe in the power of connections. You deserve a miracle. Hope it happens. I think you have mentioned before the bias of doctors who think you look great so it must all be in you head kind of experiences. Many of us have experienced that particular response. Having to battle the complexity of symptoms in the Age of Covid is a real nightmare. The West coast has certainly taken a giant beat down. The skies look like hell. How very scary. I am very concerned that too many people have joined the cult of Trump. I don’t think our country can survive another four years of this monster. I’ll be 71 in October and like you, I would like the remaining years to be something other…so we continue to work for change and refuse to give up. To better days.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2020 at 2:05 PM
  
  HELLO!
  I had NO idea YOU followed me and YOU HAVE MADE MY DAY!As someone here said there is NO INTEREST IN GETTING TO THE BOTTOM OF MY PROBLEM.Its as if they could careless!I made baby steps today had other X-rays done on the neck……extention and ……..BLA BLA can’t recall now!.ALSO got an appointment with a Physical Therapist next week.AS perhaps NECK EXERCISES WILL BENEFIT ME!Meanwhile NO EPISODES this week………….YIPPY!SEE MY MAIN SQUEEZE MISTER CHIROPRACTOR on WEDNESDAY and will continue to see him as much as I need to keep these EPISODES AWAY!If this is a part of of MY LIFE from NOW ON ITS OKAY……….I just want to feel WELL enough to go to Lunch, hop on an AIRPLANE,have people over and cook and keep SHOPPING FOR CAFTANS!!!!!HA!
  OFF TO VISIT YOUR BLOG!
  XX
Barbara Jones
· Reply

September 10, 2020 at 12:18 PM

Hello USA Sis, as always a wonderful blog but upsetting to here how terrible the heat and fires are in California, and your health scare. With Covid and Trump you are having the best September … but it will get better. Arthritis is annoying but it can be helped .. sadly red wine seems to be a problem if you are a sufferer. I always find the medical systems in the USA tricky to understand, but keen on asking the questions. We have a lovely woman Doctor, who would call in for a cup of tea on her way home when Mr Bill was poorly. Sadly she no longer comes as he is better, and she is hidden away due to Covid. The south west of England has the lowest Covid numbers in the UK, but our young people take little notice of the dangers and the university will bring about 50,000 students over the next few weeks.
Anyway, isn’t it wonderful to see how many lovely, caring friends you have. Interesting and talented people like Sandra find each other on Instagram and make our lives richer. Do take care, get better, but if all else fails pack the pig and come to Plymouth.
B&B xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2020 at 9:08 AM
  
  I announced last NIGHT to THE ITALIAN we are invited with BANKSY to head to PLYMOUTH!
  CAN YOU IMAGINE YOU AND ME BEING NEIGHBORS ???
  WHAT FUN AND LAUGHS WE WOULD HAVE!
  I remember those visiting HOUSE CALL DOCTORS from ITALY!!!!!!!!!
  ALSO when I was pregnant with MY FIRST BORN I was bedridden for THREE MONTHS………….my DOCTOR cam to visit me!
  I MISS THE OLD WAYS………….would be delighted to go BACK IN TIME!
  BUT then we would have not MET!!!!
  BIG HUG SISTER AFAR!
  XOXOX
Robin
· Reply

September 10, 2020 at 11:29 AM

So sorry you have been having episodes. I thought you had found the relief. Hope “they”- the team, have an answer soon.
Hope you are not threatened by the fires. I worry. I think Cindy has air quality issues? Mary Ann and Kim as well? So scary.
In Umbria, we are under control with the virus. BUT, for example , 8 ragazzi from our town felt the need to vacation in Greece {on the beach}. All came back positive. They are young, and with isolation and no exposure to their family, it should be contained. BUT WHY?? This should be also prohibited in our area.
LETS ALL VOTE!! We need change.
Baci baci, Cara
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2020 at 9:02 AM
  
  NO TEAM DEALING WITH ME………..JUST ME BANGING ON DOORS!
  YES, I DID FIND RELIEF AND YES HAVE HAD A HIPCUP!WILL CONTINUE WITH CHIRO………
  THE AIR IS WORSE WHERE I AM SAYS CINDY who was just here to babysit her GRAND DAUGHTER!
  IT IS BAD!MY SINUS ARE KILLING ME TODAY and I AM STAYING IN DOORS!THE SKY IS OMINOUS and SCARY!
  WE are getting smoke from OREGON AND WASHINGTON STATE!
  I see CHINA and RUSSIA today are meddling in BIDENS EMAILS!!!!!!!!
  I read we were very close to NUCLEAR WAR in 2017……….with THAT KOREAN HONCHO because of THE TRUMPER BOY’s TWEETS!! THE MAN IS GOING TO KILL ALL OF US………………..Lets HOPE the GROUP that VOTED for him the FIRST GO AROUND have woken up a bit!WHat it shows me is how IGNORNANT and un-educated the AMERICAN people are.
  WE ARE SO SELF CENTERED AND ME ME ME SOCIETY……………..
  Enough of THIS………….ALHORA BELLA Che FAI OGGI?
  XX
Anita
· Reply

September 9, 2020 at 10:05 PM

Gutted to read that the episodes have returned sweetheart.
To go this long without one ………I’m so sorry.
Everything was looking so rosy for you too.
Take care dear Elizabeth xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2020 at 8:40 AM
  
  THANK YOU……………….ordered your BIRTHDAY GIFT YESTERDAY!!!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 9, 2020 at 8:04 AM

VIA EMAIL:
Hi Elizabeth,
… just read your blog post
… noticed under the MRI part of what the Dr wrote… there was spam link
for a drug
… surprised no one mentioned in comments

…have been enjoying your posts for years 🙂
… it is cray cray that Drs and others can’t figure out your episodes … need a Dr like Dr House!

…maybe staying home has been good for you in some way… since no episodes until now

…just thought I’d let you know about the spam

…hope you do find out what causes the episodes!

Be well,
Summer
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 9, 2020 at 8:13 AM
  
  THANK YOU SUMMER……………I know that was not THERE when I POSTED!!!
  I have taken it away now!
  APPRECIATE YOU WRITING TO TELL ME VERY MUCH!
  Yes, I have had those thoughts too as I am NOT moving much these days……….which will LEAD to other problems!!
  THRILLED TO HEAR YOU HAVE BEEN WITH ME FOR YEARS!!!!!!!!
  XX
Jill James
· Reply

September 9, 2020 at 1:14 AM

So sorry to hear that those episodes have returned , how frustrating after doing so well. I can understand that you must be at your wits end after exploring so many different paths. I do hope you will finally have an answer soon.
On another note the new blog layout is so you, elegant and glamorous. I do follow Sandra and always enjoy her makeup IG Stories , so informative and helpful . I too am looking at the Nars eye shadow base . I will check out your other the other blog , sounds right up my street.
Please take care .
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 9, 2020 at 8:10 AM
  
  HELLO JILL……………..I LOVE THE NARS EYESHADOW BASE!HOPE YOU TRY AND TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK!
  What works for ONE maynot work for another But its good to SHARE TIPS!
  THANK YOU so much!
  XXX
cindy
· Reply

September 8, 2020 at 8:35 AM

OMG I can’t believe this is happening again! You need to go to Mayos, SB or Cleveland clinic or somewhere to get to the bottom of this!!
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 8, 2020 at 7:24 AM

ANOTHER SPAIN GAL……..ISABEL goes often to visit her MOTHER maybe you TWO can meet up one day?!!
The designer of Mel. BARCELONA.
Those shoulders are PAINFUL.THE ITALIAN has had BOTH operated on……….ICE and HEAT I think is KEY.
YOU BE WELL AS WE NEED YOUR INPUT ON THE BLOGS……..I bet its hard for you to TYPE?
ALWAYS HUMOR………………gotta have it with THAT IDIOT in THE White House!TWO MILLION ACRES have burned in CALIFORNIA an all time record.His response……….”THEY NEED TO RAKE THEIR LEAVES.”
I know what YOU EUROPEANS THINK AND I ‘m RIGHT THERE WITH YOU!IF I could CRATE UP BANKSY SAFELY I MIGHT BE YOUR NEW NEIGHBOR!!!
XX
- Mumbai
  · Reply
  
  September 8, 2020 at 9:30 AM
  
  Marbella is 10 h drive or 1.20 hrs flight away from BARC but I always enjoy to met new people. Yes, just have heard about
  this terrible desaster in CAL. No comment to the comments of MrTrump, say it all I think. We both as neighbor would be
  fun, we would turn the world around. Smile to everything even to your suffer….good saying from Thich Nhat Hanh
Dinnerpartyguru
· Reply

September 8, 2020 at 7:18 AM

Dear Elizabeth
So sorry to hear about your episode. I agree with you that most doctors are just terrible and so afraid of getting into trouble or thinking out of the box they should really just be in a high chair ? ? !
Enjoy your beautiful surroundings, put on some clackers and a lovely caftan because you deserve only beauty and tranquility which is what you share with us everyday.

Take care friend and praying for healing and health.
Amanda
Mumbai
· Reply

September 8, 2020 at 6:45 AM

Dear Contessa, so sorry to read about your recurring episodes. I can share your pain because I have the recurring problem with my
operated shoulder a couple of weeks ago and I’m still in pain. No solace, I know …. thank you so much to introduce us to the MEL blog
which I already suscribed. Her bags are so cute and suits so well with the Coast & Koi design shoes. Must definitely spoil me again with them. And Sandra is a women not much more older than me, which I admire for her style. Take care and be still humorous as ever.
suzanna
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 8:17 PM

yes indeed I remember when these started Elizabeth….the most puzzling thing, shaking my head.
just don’t know how they can pinpoint these episodes you sometimes get…good ole arthritis seems
to hit is all…I too have been in & out of outpatient due to falling from moving so much, gardening, and
refusing not to pick up pots, fertilizer, and, well you know! Seems I can no longer….I do think of you
so very much….you have a lot of support here….thank you so so much for your kind & generous sharing
& so many sources for us to visit…..thank you for sharing with us here….

we all live in this field together…
xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 8, 2020 at 7:13 AM
  
  SO we never got to do OUR LUNCH!
  Fingers crossed the smoke and heat and COVID will SETTLE SOON!!!!!!
  THANK YOU for thinking of me OFTEN!
  I LOVE TO SHARE AND MAKE PEOPLE MEET UP……………..I find it so fun to get EXCITED about a small world or an ITEM that one can truly ENJOY!I’ll keep SHARING……….PROMISE!
  WE MUST HAVE JOY!!!!
  JOY JOY JOY!!!
  XOXO
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 7, 2020 at 3:15 PM

VIA EMAIL:
I am so, so sorry you’ve had a reoccurrence of episodes. If they were absent for six months, there is hope. Hang on, Elizabeth, you have a lot of people rooting for you…
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 8, 2020 at 7:09 AM
  
  HANGING ON……..with LOTS OF HOPE!!!
  THANK YOU
  XX
Pat
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 2:09 PM

Ooooooo, a very dramatic look for the blog…fitting for a contessa!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 8, 2020 at 7:08 AM
  
  AND I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH IT!!!!
  I like the black background but have had a few complaints its hard to READ?
  ANY THOUGHTS ON THAT?
  XX
PPP
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 1:38 PM

Ma Chere Contessa.
So sorry to hear about your episodes returning and again no definitive answers. It’s disheartening having gone on so long.
However, I am glad that so far no alarming results were reported in those few recent tests.
Unfortunately, stress plays a big part in how the body reacts negatively.
I hope your enduring positive attitude will reestablish your body’s balance and those episodes will be held at bay. You’re doing all the right things!
Loved the chic black background of your blog.
Theodore is lovely but not very useful!!!
Adieu
PPP
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 8, 2020 at 7:06 AM
  
  YOU SAID THE SAME WORDS MY CHIROPRACTOR SAID!!!!
  “You’re doing all the right things!”
  I will continue with my SESSIONS with him and HOPE FOR THE BEST!
  NO THAT THEO IS A BUTTERBALL OF LOVE…………………..its been too HOT TO CATCH A MOUSE!
  XXX
Brenda
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 1:23 PM

My dear,
New to your blog, love it! I thought I’d mention a neurologist. You may have seen one, if so just ignore. I had a fainting- like problem, turned out to be seizures brought on by chemo (Fun stuff—Not). With medication haven’t had any seizure since 2014. I do get a headache occasionally but I feel good now. Hope you find the problem for a permanent fix.
You are in my prayers
Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:24 PM
  
  WELCOME!
  THANK YOU for your suggestion!YES, BEEN THERE DONE THAT and was on SEIZURE medication for TWO YEARS……..went through three different meds and the last one made me SO SICK I think I still haven’t recovered.NO APPETITE and stomach issues.
  Went through TWO NEUROLOGISTS. One was HEAD HONCHO of his department.Turns out he lives down the STREET from ME!!
  THANK YOU……….SO HAPPY THEY FOUND OUT WHAT CAN HELP YOU!SOUNDS LIKE YOU BEAT THAT UGLY C word!!!!
  BRAVA!YIPPY!!!CONGRATULATIONS!!!
  YOU ARE A ROCK STAR TOO JUST LIKE MY BUDDY Sandra Sallin!
  XX
Lee Dorner
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 12:22 PM

So sorry to hear your episodes have returned. Have you or the Drs ever considered optical migraines? They are triggered by bright lights, and unfortunately red wine, dark chocolate, aged cheddar, etc. I have had these and recently so has my husband. You lose central vision, or jagged lines in vision, lasting about 15 to 30 minutes; may or may not be followed by a headache. Not terribly serious, but still disconcerting especially if they occur often. As someone else said, see an opathamalogist. Good luck.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:27 PM
  
  YES, have gone down that path……..THANK YOU!
  I hAvE SEEN TWO OPTHAMALOGISTS and had an appointment with a third one down by STANFORD when COVID ENTERED OUR LIVES and they are not seeing patients!Guess I should CALL AGAIN……………but that has been a dead end for me in the past.
  THANK YOU THANK YOU!
  XX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 10:34 AM

I can’t believe this is happening to you again!! We have often talked about our similar problems but now, I am at a loss as what to suggest. Fortunately I haven’t had an episode for some time now, but every time I had symptoms, my tests came back fine… for everything. They aren’t things I bring on myself and are not panic attacks, but at least I’ve never had loss of vision. I can’t imagine how scary that must be.

Our friend, Sandy!!! I’m thrilled for her viral fame! She is quite the dame and I’m happy the world is figuring that out. My love to you, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:30 PM
  
  HAVE YOU SEEN A CHIROPRACTOR TO SEE IF YOU IN ALIGNMENT…….and you’re ATLAS is CORRECT?
  WE are both tall so again it could be similar…………….nothing they do hurts.
  Might be worth a visit!
  AS CINDY SAID SHE IS A ROCK STAR!!!
  XX
Carla
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 6:42 AM

I tried using the emojis in my comment above and that’s why all the question marks. I guess it doesn’t except so changes to ?
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 7:53 AM
  
  EXCLAMATION MARKS!!!
  NO!! COMMENT SECTION DOES NOT ACCEPT EMOJIS………….AND NOW WHEN I GO TO EDIT THEM THEY ARE NOT IN THE COMMENT!SO ANOTHER SNAFU…………………LIFE WITH COMPUTERS!!
  I WILL ANSWER THE COMMENTS………..MAYBE BE TOMORROW BUT I’ll START TODAY!!
  APPRECIATE THE FEEDBACK!!
  XX
Carla Christoph
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 6:40 AM

Dear Elizabeth,
I’m so sorry to hear this. It really bummed me out as I thought finally you were done with these episodes. I know you must be really down about it and I’m praying that it will be resolved. I can’t see your comments or maybe you have not had a chance to comment back to your readers but interested to know if what a Mary said might be what’s causing the problem. ?????????? I certainly hope your feeling better and wishing you a nice Labor Day. Try to keep your chin up. ??
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:46 PM
  
  CHIN UP AND TUCKED SO NECK DOESN’T HURT!!!!!!!!
  HARD when one is READING and typing away here……………but to answer your question YES what MARY mentioned I went down that path in the beginning as other READERS also mentioned it BEFORE!I sure have learned a lot from ALL this about body parts and sicknesses!!
  WE GOT YOUR HOT HOT WEATHER THIS WEEKEND!!!OVER 100!Last night it was 102 at 6:30 PM!!!
  WE CALIFORNIANS are SISSEY’s when it comes to this as WE ARENOT USE TO THE EXTREME TEMPeratures.
  Still working in the closet TODAY…….windows are in and being given molding and a coat of paint.I ran out of PINK HANGERS for the second time but I HAVE PLENTY OF BROWN SO WE WILL GO WITH A MIS-MATCHED LOOK NOW!MY SHOE SHELVES have been installed and FILLED UP………ran out of room THERE TOO!BUT DAM THEY LOOK GOOD!
  Filling a BOX for a DEAR friend in ARIZONA as we wear the same size shoe!
  Did I mentioned SCARVES?Three shelves piled high but still have MORE………..should I just GOOD WILL without LOOKING INSIDE the BASKET they are housed in NOW?
  Thrilled to HEAR MARY LISTENED TO ME and has ordered a couple of CAFTANS!
  I cannot tell you how MUCH PLEASURE THAT ROD OF CAFTANS AND KIMONO’S GIVES ME!!
  It’s MY GO TO RACK………especially in this HEAT!
  OF course I GOT THAT IDEA from your CLIENT who has a CAFTAN ROOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  Yesterday morning a shop in MOROCCO contacted me and wants to send me a KAFTAN!I told THE ITALIAN and HE LOOKED AT ME AND SAID, “NO!!!!!!!!!”I said but its FREE!!!! HE said you have NO MORE ROOM!I said YES I DO ON THAT ROD ONLY!!!!!!!!
  Can’t keep a CRAZY GIRL like ME DOWN I will ALWAYS BE LOOKING AND BUYING……………
  THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR CONCERN!
  It is GETTING TO ME!
  XX
Karen Persson
· Reply

September 7, 2020 at 1:16 AM

Dear Elizabeth,

That also makes me so sad to hear you’re going through the episodes again and then to have to deal with such a response from the doctor. Maybe you can go to another doctor or specialist to get a better help? I can only imagine how awful it is and so frustrating.

As for your photos, etc… Of course I love those!

My heart is with you. Sending you lots of love and prayers.

Love,

Karenxoxoxxo?????????
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:49 PM
  
  WE FIXED IT ONCE…………I HAVE CONFIDENCE WE WILL FIX IT AGAIN!!!
  Bottom line I was not made to do lifting or CLEANING is the message I have been receiving.
  YOU LOOK GREAT……………..everything good in HOLLAND with COVID?
  XX
  - Karen Persson
    · Reply
    
    September 15, 2020 at 12:43 PM
    
    Yes, you’re positivity shall fix it for sure! We all learn how to continue and become stronger. Glad cleaning is something you shouldn’t do… or lifting! Let other people do that!
    
    Thank you for the compliment! I’m doing super well, thank you! The Netherlands still is dealing with Covid19, of course. Too many young people are ignoring the precautions, sadly, thus becoming infected.
    
    Sending healing love and hugs,
    
    Karenxooxox
kim
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 7:01 PM

Elizabeth, I am sad they aren’t taking your issue more seriously So upsetting. I hope you get some more answers. You can’t live like that! You must see other doctors. I loved Sandra’s video so much. I’m so happy for her! Your mouse was taken care of Theodore.. or not? I wasn’t clear. He sure is a cute. The new redesign is pretty! Love all the photos. xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:51 PM
  
  THE ITALIAN!
  I Came in from OUTSIDE with dishes and there he was a little thing had crawled out from the dishwasher……almost dead.
  Must have been something he ate!
  MY SISTER-IN-LAW picked him up by his tail………………
  THEODORE TOO BUSY SNOOZING!!!!
  XOX
debra @ 5th and state
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 6:50 PM

OH DEAREST, TERRIBLY SORRY THAT YOUR HEALTH TOOK A TURN!!!!!

I must say however, you have never looked so glamorous and lovely, something is working for you. perhaps a student of Sandra???? love her video, she is so relaxed and a great teacher

keep us posted about your health, I care

xxx
debra
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 2:53 PM
  
  NOSE DIVE!!!!!!
  THANK YOU!
  I had three EPISODES in ONE WEEK and one right after seeing CHIROPRACTOR……………THATS REALLY ODD!Because in the PAST I have always felt so much better and I did that DAY TOO.
  MANY MANY THANKS…………..XXX
Joan
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 4:51 PM

Dear Elizabeth,
I do not know it this will help, however, as noted in some of the comments, I have experienced the swirly, sparkly, flashing lights migraine in one eye. that causes me to be unable to see clearly and is very scary. The eye doctor said that it was from stress, and to drink a cup of strong black coffee…something about shrinking the blood vessels in the eye, (or the opposite?). So “it” has only returned a few times in many years and I do lay down and think calm thoughts, and drink strong black tea b/c no coffee in the house. I have never had a migraine of the usual sort. I do have arthritis in my hands, hips, knees, and had to have a hip replacement a year ago but that pain is all better now. I have had a carotid artery test I am sure in the past with nothing remarkable going on there, though I have genetic high cholesterol….have been off lipids for 9 years now due to only eating a plant based diet.

I have osteoporosis, but am very healthy, have always hiked, and walk everyday now for 30 min. plus do yoga once a week on Zoom. I have been getting a Prolia injection every 6 months, and just got my Dexa scan with no results as of now, am curious to find out if the Prolia helped after years of taking Fosamax that ?? didn’t do much. That is the only medication I take. I do hope you can find out what is happening and soon.
Take care -XO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 3:00 PM
  
  THEY HAVE ME ON FOSAMAX!
  I asked for PROLIA but THAT DOCTOR wouldn’t DO IT!
  I have heard terrible things about FOSAMAX!Nor will they do that test on me for another two years……..I want to see if the ALGAECAL HORSE PILLS I take and the FOSAMAX are helping too!Thats why I did the LIFE LINE to see those numbers but what they did was not too helpful!MY DOCTOR didNOT EVEN UNDERSTAND WHAT THAT NUMBER WAS!!!
  FIVE YEARS IS ALONG TIME TO WAIT……………….especially if I have only about 20 good years LEFT!IF I’m LUCKY!
  SORRY To be that blunt but I want this next decade to be a GOOD ONE!
  THANK YOU THANK YOU!!
  XOX
judith
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 4:35 PM

Looks like the comment feature is now working – YEA! First of all, sorry about the return of “It,” as someone else said. I say that because it is at least as scary as the Stephen King clown in the sewer. Being an optimist, I want to believe you WILL find the cause and can then move forward. I think you just have to find the right person to help you. I have some more thoughts and will send you an e-mail. Sandra is a beautiful person, inside and out. I love her calm demeanor, her radiant smile, and the way she communicates; she seems to be at peace with herself and I want to know her secret! Not to mention, I want to look as good as she does, now, much less when I am 80 years old. Happy Birthday, Sandra! Happy wedding anniversary! I appreciated her candor about makeup and her challenges. She takes it all in stride. Finally, you look AMAZING in the pink caftan! You have a sort of sexy librarian look today with your glasses and hair in a bun. Get some rest and try and not worry too much about this – you will figure it out! In the meanwhile, all of us are sending hope and good cheer your way.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 3:06 PM
  
  SEXY LIBRARIAN LOOK…………………..I LOVED THAT!
  I’ll tell you a little secret…….SANDRA’s BIRTHDAY is in NOVEMBER!SO NOT 80 YET!
  SHE HAS THE NICEST CUTEST HUSBAND EVER…………………….THEY ARE A WONDERFUL COUPLE!
  ARE you a Star Wars FAN?HE was the PRODUCER for THE WRATH OF KHAN!!!
  I’m waiting for your EMAIL COVID PEN PAL I THINK…………………..I will answer your LAST one TOMORROW!
  HUSBAND YELLING FOR ME TO COME TO THE CLOSET…………some important decision MUST BE MADE!
  N O W!!!!
  XXX
Susan
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 4:08 PM

Find a new doctor!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 7:56 AM
  
  PATHETIC…………..just sad and I have done all the work!
  I hear you………been to a FEW!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 2:09 PM

VIA EMAIL:
Ciao Bella,

I love your New Look blog colours – the black background really makes your photos pop! However, your comments interface seems to be a problem for me. All will sort itself out, no doubt, as I suspect you’ve probably already been told about it. The normal abundance of comments seems unusually scanty!

Such a bummer to hear your 6-months run of peachy living has come to an unexpected halt!! Fingers crossed this resolves itself quickly and is just an aberrant hitch and you’re back to smooth sailing. Interesting that your latest medico-experience in this post-Covid world has seen a sharp improvement in Attitude and Responsiveness, but I also had to roll my eyes at the stubborn persistence in calling your well-documented symptoms as Dizzy Spells. And good news re your X-ray and MRI that nothing sinister showed up, although I don’t really understand what the analysis means.

Great photo of you with the fuchsia coloured dahlias(?), so you look a million dollars despite what you may feel! Theodorable looks like he couldn’t care a fig for his neglect in the Household Duties department, although I’m sure he was a tad disappointed you didn’t gift him the Deceased Rodent as a toy in the aftermath of the Great Hunt, hahah!!

Stay well, Dear Contessa.

Baci from Sydney,
Pipistrello xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 3:11 PM
  
  WELL, bottom line I have LOST TWO INCHES and SHRINKING MORE……..the bones in NECK are POOFING AWAY!
  MUST DRINK MORE ALMOND MILK I GUESS……………so that makes sense of what FLOWER told me BEFORE!
  I am working with her too…………………
  SO HAPPY YOUR COMMENT MADE IT FASTER THAN OUR SNAIL MAIL!!!
  BACI BACK AT YA!
  XXX
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 3:11 PM
  
  I DID GET YOUR CARD ABOUT A WEEK AGO!!!!!!!!
  I THINK I FORGOT TO WRITE AND TELL YOU!
  MY APOLOGIES!!!!
  THANK YOU……….XO
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 1:29 PM

VIA EMAIL:

I am SO concerned about you and so sad and so mad and other emotions… but life is not fair, as we all know. And we also know there is a vast spectrum of how terrible it can be, but health concerns are clearly at the far end… you will fight back, I know this, and all your readers will flutter around like angels trying to help with encouragement and hope. You must keep us posted in the blog about developments…

As Jim said, your blog is obviously new (I loved the old format and the white background…but have to admit that the older I get, the less I like change : ) HOWEVER, as he said, no comments can be entered –it’s like typing in invisible ink—hope this can be fixed soon!! I actually found the black background ominous when I opened your post, and then I knew with ‘LIFE’. that something was amiss.

Sending xoxo’s, positive thoughts and prayers,

Grandmama to the duck family…still ALL TOGETHER ON OUR SMALL LAKE…YAY!

PS ADORED Sandra Sallin’s video… she is a force of nature, just like you.
Heidi
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 1:27 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
Oh darn, I thought you were cured for good. So sorry this is happening to you again. The thing is it could be so many things. Still sounds like the migraines I get occasionally, loss of vision with a sparkly aura/halo for about an hour, then squeezing pain. My migraine meds do nothing so I usually just get some caffeine and 3 Motrins in me and then rest until the aura goes away. I have a little arthritis in my neck, too. Said to be normal with age. Hmmm. I don’t like that! I guess it will be up to you to be your own medical detective again because you know how much HELP (!!!) your dr has been.
As for the rest, I’m looking forward to checking out the new blog, and of course Sandra’s awesome and exciting news. How fun to have a celebrity in your circle!
I hope you don’t swelter this weekend. We are staying inside with the house all shut tight trying to stay cool. Of course no trips to the beach be cause it is closed until Tues. Drat!
XO Heidi
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 11:02 AM
  
  I am bit SAD for MYSELF finding out I have ARTHRITIS at age 60…….I think of that as TOO YOUNG for this!But then my track record has been off THE CHARTS regarding DEVASTATING NEWS.
  AGE 50 HEART SURGERY for MITRAL VALVE…….they turn my heart off for a bit during that procedure!I did not POP BACK from all that as quickly as anticipated.Next came HAIR LOSS at about age 56……LOST HALF IF NOT MORE OF MY HEAD OF HAIR!NEVER TO RETURN SAYS THE HAIR DOC from UC San Francisco.During this I started to have the EPISODES pruning roses, having lunch with a friend, DRIVING MY CAR, reading the computer………….with NO WARNINGS!
  HO HUM………………its been so BLISSFUL these last SIX MONTHS and I was SO HAPPY but still WAITING FOR IT TO COME BACK……..I was had to be careful moving my head to fast and pulling clothes out of the dryer.Gardening is a NO NO TOO!
  I would PINCH myself once in awhile thinking back especially to the LAST TWO YEARS where I was pretty much HOUSEBOUND!
  Me meeting YOU at FIOLI was a BIG DEAL for ME!
  HOT AGAIN TODAY AND THE REST OF THE WEEK………………STAY INSIDE!
  XO
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 1:21 PM

Elizabeth,

It is distressing that you’re having these epsoides again. I’m wondering if you may have added something to your diet recently. Food intolerances can manifest in very strange ways.

I also wish, but don’t want to overstep, to urge you once again to consult with my wonderful. Word-renowned homeopath, Jeremy Sherr.

He’s a very fine homeopath who’s also devoted the past 15 or more years ro helping AIDS patients in Tanzania, in addition to teaching, and helping private patients. There are many astonishing transformations videod on the site:

https://homeopathyforhealthinafrica.org/

He’s helped me many times over more than 20 years and is basically my primary health care provider. If you’d like to contact the person who’s his locum, please let me know.
Regardless, I hope there are no repeats.

Your July 22 birthday friend,
Cara
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:49 AM
  
  MANY THANKS……….I have seen THREE HOMEOPATHS in the last two years.
  WORTHLESS………..
  IF MY situation continues I WILL FOLLOW YOUR LEAD AND CONTACT HIM.BUT WE DID FIX ME FOR SIX MONTHS SO I AM HOPING I CAN DO IT AGAIN!
  YOU ARE NEVER OVER STEPPING BIRTHDAY TWIN!!!!!
  I AM SO GRATEFUL for ALL YOUR INFORMATION AND SUGGESTIONS!!
  XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:52 AM
  
  NO on FOOD…………I have no appetite anymore and have stayed off the wine as it does not appeal much to me either………
  I am Gluten Free and DIARY FREE and we eat ONLY FRESH FOOD cooked by ME or THE ITALIAN.We have been OUT to eat THREE times since JANUARY 2,2020 two of which were TAKE OUT.I think I am the ONLY PERSON who has lost weight during COVID LOCK DOWN!!
  XX
Sandra Sallin- http://www.ApartFromMyArt.com From My Art
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 12:56 PM

I’m pissed and frustrated that the episodes have returned. I found the comment from the woman about going to a really good opthamologist a good one. As per your suggestion I have subscribed to your buddy in Italy. I love the idea of those seats. I wonder if they would work on me.
Thank you for including me, my article in the London Sunday Times Style and the YouTube video. We’ve been buddies since the day we met. Just two peas in a pod! Encouraging and helping one another. All because of Instagram!!

Thanks dear friend for all your support and friendship!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:46 AM
  
  I’m going to give YOU a PASS TODAY as YOU are ON TOP of THE WORLD being FEATURED in the LONDON STYLE TIMES NEWSPAPER!I have done the EYE DOCTOR route a few times.THEY have NEVER heard of my SYMPTOMS!
  ITALY?She is from SPAIN but lives in DENVER NOW!
  IT was the BLOG not INSTAGRAM………..but close ENOUGH!!!!!
  
  WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!I want to know the lipstick and gloss you used I know its listed I just need to GO LOOK!
  XX
Jo Floyd
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 12:28 PM

You poor darling experiencing your episodes again , may they be short lived .
My mother had similar for about 3 years, didn’t know when they were coming , felt drained and knocked out afterwards. The good part is she grew out Of them After about 3 years or so. No more. A friend also had similar She Was an ex nurse, similar age as yourself and my mm, similar outcome. I feel for you take care love x
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:41 AM
  
  THANK YOU but I am headed into YEAR FIVE come NOVEMBER……………..!!!!!
  BUT GOOD TO HEAR YOU HAVE AT LEAST HEARD OF THIS STRANGE OCCURRENCE!!
  XX
Penelope
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 12:27 PM

Oh no! We thought you were back in tip-top form. That is very discouraging. The blog and you look beautiful. Wishing you renewed health. XOXO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:40 AM
  
  I WILL BE AGAIN!!!
  THANKS PENELOPE loving your FRIDA PAINTINGS!!!
  XOX
Lorna
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 12:19 PM

Dear Elizabeth, I am so sorry to hear you had a relapse. I really hope you manage to get it resolved.
Sandra is a gem but, as you know, IG isn’t letting me comment or like so I am barely using it anymore. I miss my IG friends but there are a lot of people out there who are having major issues with it and 2 ladies I follow have had their account hacked. It’s a big mess and I think has to do something with their latest update. I will wait it out for a few more days and may then have to start a new account. Sometimes it’s so easy to get disheartened but then I think of you and how you still smile through all the more serious problems you have to deal with and I realize that I’m being silly.
Tell Thedore he needs to catch that mouse. He is such a cute cat. Very regal-looking.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:39 AM
  
  THE ITALIAN CAUGHT THE MOUSE!
  THEODORE IS FIRED!!!!!!!
  I AM SO SORRY YOU ARE HAVING THESE PROBLEMS…………….XX
Stephanie
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 11:24 AM

Oh Elizabeth, I’m so so sorry to hear that the episodes have returned. I wish I could be of any help at all, but with all of the clever readers here I’m hoping someone will have a winning suggestion.
Somehow you always manage to look fresh, colorful and gorgeous despite your health issues. It is a testimony to your Joi de Vivre, no doubt about it!!
Sending lots of love and good mojo for this mystery to be solved ASAP!!
xx
Stephanie aka tendrheart4
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:37 AM
  
  THANK YOU STEPHANIE……………that looking good has not SERVED ME WELL!!
  I think with the fact they have found ARTHRITIS in my neck and spine says a lot so things are moving around and nerves will be affected and it all MAKES PERFECT SENSE…………..like the OFF GRID lady FLOWER SAID as she was the one who told me what to do and had seen this before in another client!IT could be from moving clothes from point A to point B for the new closet………XX
Juliet
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 11:21 AM

First of all, absolutely LOVE the blog redesign. So elegant, so chic, so Contessa! About the return of the episodes, I’m bummed too. It’s particularly galling that your medical doctor seems so disinterested in getting to the bottom of it. I wonder if you’ve returned to the chiropractor with new information in hand … particularly related to arthritis? I saw Sandra’s London Times feature … thanks to you, and of course I’m a subscriber to her blog. Totally fabulous and amazing … just thrilled for her. I love her make up videos and am looking into cream products per her recommendation. And, now I’m off to visit the colorful Mel. You know I love color. Hope you’re surviving this oppressive heat … as if you don’t have enough deal with. Blowing a kiss across town. xo
- Juliet
  · Reply
  
  September 6, 2020 at 11:22 AM
  
  Sorry, I meant Isabel … off I go. xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:33 AM
  
  YES,I have and what was so frightening to me is I had an EPISODE a few hours AFTER I SAW HIM!THAT has NEVER Occurred BEFORE!
  THANK YOU for SPELLING OUT WHAT I WAS FEELING BUT I HAD NOT PUT A WORD TO IT!
  “DISINTERESTED”
  SANDRA is our CELEBRITY and ISABEL YOU WILL LOVE HER HANDBAGS she designs and makes in SPAIN with her MOTHER!
  HOWEVER SHE LIVES IN DENVER!!!
  ARE YOU SERVING WINE SPRITZERS ALL DAY TODAY after yesterdays TEMPERATURES?!!!
  HOLY COW…………102 last night at 7 pm!!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 11:10 AM

VIA EMAIL:
You are an early riser…Bansky perhaps or the dogs need out? Same here, early to rise..I tend to get more done.

You are so right, I do live on the East coast – Chesapeake Bay area of Maryland. I however went to Foothill College and SFSU and my sister at that time was living in San Rafael. Her husband was an ENT Dr. in Marin but after he passed she eventually moved to Novato. She was the head nurse at SAN QUENTIN prison in their surgical dept. for 27 years.

I got into Foothill as an international student. My father was an American diplomat(cultural attache) and later with the Library of Congress, and I grew up in 9 countries, and my high school was by correspondence. Those were not the days of computers or cell phones. I lacked 1/2 unit of credit to get my HS diploma, and refused to take one more course in History or English etc. So I bet my father I could find a college to take me, and went to the library in Rio and found Foothill. Friends from my childhood lived in Los Altos Hills, and put in a good word for me too. That is how I got to college. I left the U.S. after graduating from SFSU (I was in the technical field of Broadcasting and there were but 50 women in the U.S. at that time in that aspect of the media- and no jobs for a woman in that capacity. You had to be a member of a union, and it was all male) So I went overseas to work in television where being a woman was not an issue, but job permits were, and when that did not pan out I finally came back to the U.S. Tried finding work in S.F. and finally ended up working in NYC but living in N.J. Had many jobs over a course of 15 years, the last running a club for the ROCKEFELLER GROUP. Loved it, but NYC was not healthy for me I felt, and so left.

That is pretty much the story – no point going through those hardship years, and finally moved to Maryland to pretty much take over my Daddy’s basement business of promotional products for U.S. Embassies which he began when he retired and came back to the U.S. . It grew, and in subsequent years the market changed( huge money backed foreigners came in and took over the smaller firms clients), and although I have a few clients still it is not enough to afford a staff any longer or takes me the normal 8 hour work day. It keeps me connected with my old life, and so I continue. Besides I am 71+ and like to tinker in the garden (I know nothing about plants, and cannot remember one name of a plant as my now deceased beagle stole every plant tag I had. He however was a brilliant digger – ha, ha.) Love your plantings, and garden and took notes. I tinker with art – Not good at it, but don’t care. wrote a children’s book which I published myself and sold out (It takes place in Morocco), and did local print modeling for several years until last year when many of the shops decided not to advertise any longer and save their money, but still get together with the store owner and the other model who is in her 80’s. We always have a blast, and the store is fabulous, with unique clothing..arty. I took Tuti and Paul from Australia there, and sure enough Tuti found something…. I love the theatre-had my own amateur company for 13 years(money went to various charities), music (can’t sing a note on key but it sure doesn’t stop me), literature(have been delivering books from my own stash to seniors during covid) and art and of course clothes and shoes…your new closet I am so envious of. How marvelous!!!

So that is the whole story….I do hope to get out your way next year to celebrate my sisters 85th. Miss her, but she has Lupus and not a great time with COVID and her compromised immune system to visit.

That’s sort of me in a nut shell…ha, ha..a .long winded nut shell too. Sorry about that.

Do get the TVL checked out…I really think it may be a key….and know how frightening it can be. I had only two loss of sight followed by a migrane , and when it came on one of my staff got me a coke immediately and then told me to take tylenol and lie down. It really did help. Frightening as you don’t know why it is happening….I normally don’t keep colas in the house, but thought it wise to have at least one bottle handy….

Keep me posted, and thank you again for writing back and sharing your wonderful life with us. Carla and I have e-mail and phone chatted …what a super person she is too. You have lovely friends, and are like thee-INSPIRING…. (I too use caps in excitement not anger).

Have a marvelous day, and stay out of that heat. Keep me posted on the TVL…and meantime give all the animals a kiss on the ears for me….

Mary
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:28 AM
  
  I went to school in San Rafael!
  I will write back in an email as THERE IS SO MUCH TO COMMENT ON HERE!!!!!!!!
  XX
Kimberly
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 11:05 AM

Dear Elizabeth, I am so sorry to hear this is happening yet again. Sending you lots and lots of love and prayers. Love the new site!

XOXO,
Kimberly
Kimberly
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 11:05 AM

Dear Elizabeth, I am so sorry to hear this is happening yet again. Sending you lots and lots of love and prayers.
XOXO,
Kimberly
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:26 AM
  
  MANY THANKS………XOX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 10:55 AM

Dear Elizabeth,
So sorry to read your blog and hear that ‘it’ has returned. How awful for you.
I can’t remember if they’ve checked your Carotid arteries…? I had been told by the Opthamologist that my odd symptoms were an ‘optical migraine’ although I had no headaches only bad visual distortions for 20 min sometimes. My daughter insisted I go back again ( thank God she did). Surgery was scheduled with three days as my right carotid was totally blocked and cutting off blood to my right eye. They said I was so lucky cuz usually they don’t find out until you’ve had a stroke. Please have the doctor check again!
Get well cuz I’ll be there one day to meet you all.
Xo Candace
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:26 AM
  
  YES, THEY HAVE CHECKED THOSE AND RECENTLY TOO with that LIFE LINE SCREENING!!
  ALL CLEAR IS WHAT THEY SAY………………..
  I remember you telling me your STORY!YOUR daughter has the I SPY head THANK GOD!!!
  I AM HERE WAITING FOR YOU TWO!!!!!
  XX
Rena
· Reply

September 6, 2020 at 10:26 AM

I hate that your episodes came back. That would be very scary to me! I hope you are not alone at the house for long periods of time. You do have someone with you don’t you?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:24 AM
  
  BANKSY, WINSTON AND THEODORABLE ARE ALWAYS HERE!!!!!!
  OCCASIONALLY A SON AND HIS GIRLFRIEND AND MORE DOGS!!!
  THE ITALIAN Comes and GOES now with COVID……..
  MY cell phone is always with me even in the garden!WHICH I HATE but I DO CARRY IT!
  THANK YOU for your concern………XX
  - Mary A James
    · Reply
    
    September 8, 2020 at 10:28 AM
    
    The Italian has Covid? Oh no….I am so sorry to hear this. Keep us informed….
    - LA CONTESSA
      · Reply
      
      Author
      
      September 8, 2020 at 12:27 PM
      
      NO NO NO!!!
      MEANING with COVID IN OUR LIVES HIS WORK IS SPORADIC!Some days he is working from HOME others out in the FIELD!
      THE ITALIAN DOES NOT HAVE COVID-19!!!!
      NO COVID IN OUR FAMILY AT THE MOMENT!
      SORRY, I can see how you would ASSUME THAT BY MY WRITING!!!!!
      XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 7:40 AM

Hello Elizabeth,

I am so sorry to hear that your health problems are recurring. I was hoping that the last solution would be permanently effective.
I am emailing this comment because there seems to be some redesign of your blog, and I cannot comment. I think that perhaps you set the text color to white, but this is invisible in the white comment box.
Also, there still is no option to subscribe to comments, and I would love it you could bring this feature back.
You are very clever at finding multiple uses for items, and clever storage solutions. My kitchen is so small that there is room for nothing decorative, but the previous people had left about 100 nails in the wall, so I just hang all kinds of things–strainers, scissors, pots, etc. on them. It won’t attract Architectural Digest, but it works!
I hope you find a solution to you health problems very soon.

Yours,

Jim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:21 AM
  
  THANK YOU JIM and I think your were SPOT ON ABOUT THE COMMENT BOX!UNFORTUNATELY, I missed out on a few comments due to that mistake…………….HOpefully it will not happen again.
  I find most people do not want to receive emails about other peoples comments!!YOU ARE UNIQUE!THATS why we adore YOU!
  JUST look when the next BLOG appears………….go back BEFORE YOU READ THE NEW POST!
  100 nails left on your walls in TAWAIN!THAT is AMAZING……..I wonder what THEY HAD HANGING THERE?DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA?ONE DAY YOU MUST SEND ME A PHOTO OF YOURSELF AND YOUR TINY APARTMENT!!!
  I DO TOO JIM…….am hoping I just moved THE ATLAS while moving the clothes too the new closet!
  Evidently, I am a VERY DELICATE THING!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 6, 2020 at 7:32 AM

Dear Contessa,
Have so enjoyed your site, and have been introduced to so many other talented women thanks to you.

Your home reminds me somewhat of mine in being eclectic and fun. I too lived overseas a good portion of my life, and I think both our homes reflect our adventures and love of art and of course clothes and how we style ourselves. I like you, adore clothes (now have 3 of Carla’s kaftans thanks to your intro), and still wear outfits that are 40 years old that I bought in India or elsewhere. We are so lucky. I am however missing a pig in my home and ironically for years actually considered getting one. I figured my doggie door would not suffice, and so went on to rescue dogs (down to one now). Love does wonders.

Since I have not been privy to other blogs about your health save to read of the headaches and vision loss in most recent ones, I may be out of line in making some suggestions, and apologize in advance in doing so. I myself do not like Dr.’s and do a great deal to avoid them. That said, sometimes I have to give in and bite the bullet.

I am not sure if you have already gone to a top notch cardiologist (check on your leg issue and carotid artery) but a ophthalmologist. I say this because it sounds as if you may be having TVL’s or transient vision issues which have underlying causes. Yes and causes headaches too.

I presume you live in the Bay Area, and maybe even Marin County, and as such there are excellent Dr.s in that area. Stanford might also have some top notch ophthalmologists. Just a suggestion. This you may have already done and this is old news to you. That said, I thought I would at least pass it on in the hopes that this is solved sooner than later. If it is any consolation, you look marvelous!! now to get these incidents solved.

Weather is cool in the morning at last here, while you all are being blasted with heat. The rains have made the mosquitos worse than ever, and the huge storm two days ago left a lake of 2 feet of water in my back yard. It also left some in my basement. Time to get in a contractor to deal with that issue. My house is 1796, crooked, and charming. Came with it’s on ghost too which I had to get rid of eventually. Ha ha

You have a marvelous day, and again my apologies for being presumptuous on your medical issues, but I care and had to add my two cents of suggestions.

Mary

P.S.I cannot spell worth beans….
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:15 AM
  
  GET A PIG!
  THE DOGGY DOOR WORKS……BANKSY LEARNED in ONE DAY!
  THE BEST PET EVER AND SO ENTERTAINING!THEY ARE A BIT LIKE A TODDLER The first two years!!
  I would be happy to chat with you on the phone about PIGGIES!
  AS for you GENEROUS HELPFUL ADVISE all that has been LOOKED into more than once.THANK YOU!
  I grew up in MARIN COUNTY!AND YES live near by!!
  I LOVED YOUR EMAILS AND WILL WRITE BACK SOON………APPRECIATE ALL YOUR ADVISE!
  XX
Ginger
· Reply

September 5, 2020 at 7:57 PM

How dreadful that you’ve suffered more episodes! So sorry to hear this! I hope your feeling better and can get to the bottom of the cause.
I’ll be sure to check out Isabel’s blog, thanks! You always introduce us to the most fascinating women!
Looking forward to viewing Sandra’s video! She is so delightful and always has great tips!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 7, 2020 at 10:10 AM
  
  ADORE BOTH LADIES………………HOPE YOU ENJOY BOTH OF THEM!
  XX