JOYFUL…..NOT YET!

December 12, 2024 24 Comments

I use to have A WHOLE LOT of it,but recently it has all left me.

Maybe it’s the age.

Maybe it’s the way of the world today!

Maybe it’s my lack of ENERGY and getting things done.

Here I tried to find some JOY as I had to go to the chiropractor and get eyewear fitted.

What I wear has a way of people interacting with me.

The necklace is by CATHY SEXTON who has an INSTAGRAM account called CATIQUES.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE WHAT SHE DOES AND OWN A FEW BITS AND BOBS!

Theodore in a full on YAWN.

Tigre sneaking around Theo…….this does BRING JOY!

As does this……………Betty and Theodore having a loving moment!

These MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TREE pins have ALWAYS brought me JOY over the years.

I have a FEW.

I use to collect them.

Artist LARRY VBRA.

This year I noticed I am missing a STONE from this piece!

That made me SAD.

But I found someone who may have a substitute gem!

TIGRE!

IN REPOSE POSITION on a footstool ;I seem to collect those as well.

THE ITALIAN coordinated withOUT HELP from me!Look at the CAR FOB on a TASSEL how well it matches his OUTFIT!I had to snap a photo.Which he agreed too which was ODD!

Which brings me to my health.Here we are in a hospital miles away from our home meeting my new cardiologist for the first time.It’s a WOMAN!She interned at THE CLEVELAND CLINIC and she is one of the HEART TRANSPLANT DOCTORS!

NO, I’m not getting a TRANSPLANT,but that was mentioned at the END OF HER PLAN!

GULP.

She spent an hour and a half with us.Used AI to record our visit so she did not have to spend time typing!I have to say the summary email via AI was OKAY not GREAT but I was thrilled to be looking at her without her attention thinking about typing what had been said!I am not convinced this AI is GOOD for humans, but this was my first introduction to it which means she carries TWO CELL PHONES!One for taping and one for other calls and messages.It’s ALL NEW and I get that.

THE PLAN IS THIS:

First off she thinks I’m dehydrated so I need to drink two to three liters of water a day!

I hate water.I know HATE is a STRONG WORD,but it makes me GAG!

Next she added ENTRESTO.Which I have been on before and had terrible side affects.

She will gradually up the other meds I am on as well.

She did say I should have been on the heart meds sooner than I was placed on them.Which by the way from THE STRESS TEST results the meds have none NOTHING FOR ME!Why it took a year and a half to figure that out makes me a WEE BIT UPSET!But here I go trying to play catch up and in three months time I will have the RIGHT HEART CATHETERIZATION and the STRESS TEST done again.

If this does not work I will have a device inserted under my collarbone.She called it my personal PARAMEDIC!I will have the CADILLAC version which is THREE wires NOT TWO!AT this point in the meeting I smiled and said, “I LIKE THE GOOD STUFF!”We will have to give THE PARAMEDIC a NAME so start THINKING ABOUT THAT DEAR READERS!After that comes a PACEMAKER and or a HEART TRANSPLANT which I do not have any desire to do at this stage of the game.

Now, I NEED YOUR INPUT HERE…………

WATER and what it makes us do………GO PEE!What pads are the best for that?I had some panty liners that worked really well and now I’m out of them so I need to buy MORE!I pee now when I stand up.When I COUGH OR LAUGH and WHEN I BLOW MY NOSE!

I can tell you that this is happening ALL DAY LONG.

I read somewhere when your organs start to fail so does the BLADDER……………..

I have been holding my INDEX finger too my thumb and my tongue on the roof of my mouth to get to the bathroom.IT DOES HELP!Remember, I learned that in BLADDER CLASS YEARS AGO?I did a BLOG POST ON THAT.

I FEEL IAM TOO YOUNG FOR ALL THIS (SWEAR WORD)!

THE EYE EPISODES ARE STILL COMING 75 SO FAR THIS YEAR!

EVEN WITH THE BOTOX INJECTIONS which we started in MAY 2024 IN MY HEAD AND SHOULDERS for MIGRAINES.

THE ATLAS SEEMS TO BE HOLDING IN PLACE AFTER MANY VISITS TO THE CERVICAL SPINE DOCTOR.WHICH HAS TAKEN AWAY A LOT OF THE LIGHT HEADEDNESS AND WONKINESS THAT I HAD BEEN EXPERIENCING FOR OVER TEN YEARS.

HOW CAN ONE PERSON HAVE SO MANY ISSUES?

IT’S LIKE SOMEONE HAS PUT A SPELL ON ME!

NO WONDER MY JOY BUCKET IS NOT FULL TO THE BRIM.

THIS IS MY VIEW WRAPPING PRESENTS FOR MY FAMILY. IT BRINGS ME A BIT OF JOY.

I WISH YOU ALL MEMORABLE HOLIDAYS AND WONDERFUL FOOD EATING!

I CANNOT WAIT TO GET A BOX OF SEE’S CHOCOLATES TO CONSUME.

FUNNY THING IS NOW WHEN I EAT CHOCOLATE I GET PIMPLES!

WHICH HAS NEVER EVER HAPPENED BEFORE!

As we age it’s like we go back in time!

This was just sent to me from days past in ITALY!What are we doing? Eating of course!

Funny how my view today wrapping looks a bit like Tuscany did in the 1990’s……………

Maybe there is truth in the saying, YOU CAN TAKE IT WITH YOU!

XXX

YOUR CONTESSA

24 Comments

Leave your reply.

D. A. Squires
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 6:52 PM

Deeply sighing… maybe you can hear me, all the way from the red state of FL. (For that reason alone, to cope, I have mastered the deep sigh : ) This has been such a long hard road, and it’s feels unfair that you have had so many issues, not properly diagnosed, for so many years. And now there is a steeper hill to climb… but if anyone can do this, it is you. You have been stronger and more resilient/persistent than most could ever muster. Thankful to hear you have a new Dr. who spent the time talking with you and is so highly qualified. You are in very good hands, and you know her plan, which is in steps… so think about it that way–taking the first step with implant (and you are getting the gold model, so that’s +++). I was thinking of a good witch for the name, and since Wicked is in lights, maybe Glinda for her name : ) You can occasionally ask her to grant some wishes in addition to being your guardian heart angel : ) I would not think about the other steps, at all. The best trick for water intake is tea or diluting with flavor, I use a concentrated squirt bottle of flavored juice. Get a really big (giant) handled insulated cup (Stanley is v good) and keep it filled and slowly drink ALL day. Keep track of the oz. and drink like it’s your job! : ) Water is really, really important. Also, sip with straw, so much easier.
Sending much love and belief that joy will return this Christmas… XOXO
Dee Black
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 2:35 PM

Oh Elizabeth aka Contessa. I am going to need to read this several times to comprehend it all. A lot for you to process I’m sure. Joy is a true medicine that heals, although difficult when facing heart challenges. I have found the heart is complicated and all different so trust yours to carry you through, as I do.
I knew we were spirit sisters…I also HATE drinking water bless your heart with that amount just fill the tub and grab a straw. Lol
Theodore you are a welcome site, you keep seeing change there and survive it all. Remind mom she can do the same.
I will give you a text soon for a heads up on a phone chat you and Theodore.
The stretch bands that go under the foot helps lift the bladder. Also, I read on Instagram a few grains of Celtic salt before we drink water helps body absorb the water into the cells. Not frequent bathroom visits. I am trying that.
Hope you can find more joy as you absolutely spread tons.
XO Dee
barbara jones
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 2:17 PM

Hi Beautiful Sis … life is giving you a hard time health wise at the moment, but be brave and stick with the treatments. Getting older would be ok without these problems.
I too have the need to dash to the loo whenever I am out. No matter how much I drink or how often I go to the loo before I leave the house I always have a problem. A big thing in the UK is a herbal treatment called Jude. I tried it for a couple of months but I can’t say I noticed much benefit.
I know I should go to see a Doctor but with Bill needing constant care I have little time for myself. I also like Always but use 2or 3 at a time … just incase. I am afraid I stay at home most of the time these days … but then I live my home and have lots of projects
No matter what, you are beautiful and kind, and have a lovely family.
Diana M
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 11:21 AM

So sorry you are going through so many different health issues. Even though you say you don’t feel joyful, I do hear a bit of joy and optimism in your words. Give yourself grace. I agree with Sandy—as we age the excitement of the holidays is harder to find, and I actually find more joy in looking forward to the new year.
I’ve had incontinence issues for many years and tried many solutions. For the past 15 or so years, I’ve been getting twice a year Botox injections in my bladder. Not pleasant but it does help a lot though I still have to wear the dreaded pads.
Hope this finds you feeling better!
Jo Floyd
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 11:17 AM

Omg we all feel for you and you are not alone with your ongoing medical adventures . Your sense of humour inspite of all carries you through.
I wish you and yours the happiest of christmases and a wonderful New Year.
I am about to decorate my Christmas tree , the cake has been made and sectioned for distribution to various friends and family. We have all our family here this year to celebrate Christmas eldest grandaughters flying in from Melbourne at midnight Sunday so beds to be made up, their parents arrive the next day .Happy family times to you and yours xxxluv and hugs
Deb Milne
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 9:54 AM

Happy Christmas to the family from G & I in rainy Salem. I want to get caught up in the New Year & hear more, I miss our chats. I am drowning in boxes, mess & Christmas & lacking some of that joy too.

Three cheers for a new Cardiologist & new ideas. I hope you get that joy back & I have high-hopes that this new physician will get you on track so you get some of that back. You are meant to bring joy to others & in return get it back!!

Thinking of you always & sending love & light to see the end of this very long tunnel. xo
PPPnot
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 9:43 AM

Ma Chere Contessa,

You my dear are always incredibly joyful despite immense heath challenges. Your list of issues is staggering, but you continue to be positive. This is amazing to me. I feel sad that your health issues are ever present and not easily solvable. It’s so difficult to be told what lies ahead. You have a hell of a lot of courage because you keep smiling and finding joy in wrapping those packages for others.
Bravo!! You are doing well though it doesn’t seem so ?
I’m wishing you and the family a wonderful Christmas!
My divorce is final! Hallelujah!! California court process was torture, but now almost done..still splitting stuff .. so not completely disentangled yet.

PPP not anymore
New chapter
Holly Fitzgerald
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 9:26 AM

I was recently told by an RN that her mother had incontinence and her doctor gave her a botox injection in that area and that fixed it. Now she is able to leave her house. Maybe this will help you too. Good luck!
Leslie Lord
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 8:14 AM

Dearest Elizabeth,
Congratulations on finding a new cardiologist. Sounds like she’s a bright spark and on top of her game.
That wee paramedic in your neck could be a game changer…as to a name what about making her female and perhaps call her Joy!
As for water and fluids you can use herbal teas…so many different flavours and you can have them iced if you don’t like them hot.

I have been upping my water intake because of my concussion…after my fall!

As to the pads you can opt for a natural brand and try to go to the bathroom before you get the urge to use the toilet. More water will make you a much more frequent bathroom visitor.

Good luck with your new hydration regime.

Keep us posted!

Leslie
Hostess of The Humble Bungalow.
Stephanie D
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 7:54 AM

I’m so relieved to hear that your new cardiologist is a good listener AND a woman. Gotta get that sweet heart of yours working properly again, and it seems like she has a promising plan. As for the bladder leaks? I have heard of a new therapy that is supposed to be very helpful…

https://www.axonics.com/en-gb/

Read about it and see what you think. In the meantime, it sounds like you’re getting lots of great suggestions re: pads.

Love the view from your window…that natural beauty must bring you such joy – it’s absolutely lovely.
Wishing you improved health and much happiness this holiday season and through the new year. Sending love and hoping the JOY returns soon…
xx
S
Michelle
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 7:28 AM

Ok Girlfriend I think we talked about the water thing years ago but I too strongly dislike water all day long. I use a splash of “Sparkling ICE”. It comes in all different fruit flavors and it is sweet when you drink it alone, that is why I dilute it with the water. It’s a Zero Sugar drink that is 5 cal for a 17 fl oz bottle ( I only use about 2-3 oz for 25 oz of water) No sodium, and it does have a bunch of vitamins and it is caffeine free. It just gives the water a little flavor and I have no issue drinking 3 liters per day!!! My favorite flavor is Strawberry Watermelon.
As far as the pee issue.. as you know ( and lived thru with me on my recovery), I had the urethra sling put in. It is a surgical procedure but it is LIFE CHANGING!!! I can laugh, cough, exercise and not worry about any leakage and NO PADS!!! Like I said LIFE CHANGING!!!.
Love you my friend and we need our Christmas call to brag about our grand kiddos soon XO
ME
Andrea Serrahn
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 7:17 AM

Fresh water is your new best friend! Frenemy? It will help reduce the chocolate pimples too. Herbal tea may be a more palpable solution. Sorry to hear of your dampened holiday spirits. We are all fighting a post election depression. What goes down must come up, eventually.
Deanna
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 7:01 AM

Hope this new doctor finds some wondrous, healthy pathways to deal with these JOY STEALING issues you are going through. At least you weren’t in and out of the appointment in 20 minutes! Beautiful pins and necklace. I too lost a stone in a beloved vintage Queen Bee pin that I own. I will check out Rhinestone Rosie noted in a comment above for a replacement. Continue to find what JOY you can in your family, pets, wrapping and your beautiful home and gardens. Best to you and yours
Cynthia
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 6:58 AM

A name suggestion(s) for your Paramedic:
The name Cayce is a gender-neutral name of Irish origin that means “alert” or “watchful”. It comes from the Gaelic name Cathasaigh, which means “vigilant” or “watchful”.
Some other names that mean “watchful” include:
Ira, Greer, Greggory, Grier, Argus, Irah, Raqib, Greggy, Grear, and Gregorios.
Gray
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 5:57 AM

Glad to hear from you Contessa! I am so sorry for all the health issues – it does make JOY a little harder. As you know, I’m having difficulty as well this year.
Hang in there!
On the chocolate – I break out from that too. It’s the sugar.
Eat sparingly!! ?
Jan
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 4:40 AM

Merry Christmas E!
I am glad you seem to like your new doctor. So hard to see you go through your health struggles. I am so far away and wishing I could help.
At the holidays it is all about being around family that brings me joy. I know it is the same for you.
I can’t believe the photo! I yelled when I saw it! Please send a clearer shot if you have it. Brings back so many wonderful memories!
Sending my love! Jan
Karen Persson
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 2:18 AM

Dear Elizabeth,

Oh my… what are you dealing with, way too many things at once. No wonder it’s hard to feel joyful. I hope things improve soon and that you don’t need heart surgery. You’re definitely too young for all of this!

As for your bladder, what about bladder strengthening exercises? Have you tried that?

Sending you healing love and wishing you plus your family a beautiful Christmas full of joy!

Love,

Karenxoxoo
Janis Ottanelli
· Reply

December 13, 2024 at 2:17 AM

Hi lovely Elizabeth,
It’s good to hear that you are with a new cardiologist that has told you a plan going forward, at least you know what to expect. I will be praying that the treatments really help you ? It’s daunting being unwell.
Sending you and your family lots and lots of love.
Merry Christmas to you all x????x
cindy
· Reply

December 12, 2024 at 7:12 PM

Well this is a wee bit encouraging. Do they know what caused the damage to your heart in the first place
Kathe
· Reply

December 12, 2024 at 4:37 PM

My dearest E-Beth,
Praying for you and think of you all the time which brings Joy to my day! You have always had the biggest heart which maybe why it’s giving you trouble,
Merry Christmas to you and the family.
Xoxo
Kathe
Katherine
· Reply

December 12, 2024 at 2:32 PM

Dear Contessa, I’m part of your Circles of Love and Care to pray, wish and envision health improvements. Sending Best Thoughts. Yes, like Merlin…we may seem to go back in Time as we age.
That is one humongous and gorgeous Christmas Tree Pin! For the missing stone, I’ve heard of Rhinestone Rosie in Seattle. She may have a replacement and be able to repair.
As for the pads…your comment led me to thinking, I may be using the wrong product. I’ve used Always pure cotton pads for occasional leaks. I liked the idea of cotton. There are seemingly hundreds of products for every nuanced requirement. I can see why you ask for recommendations! I’ve been happy with Always pure cotton pads I bought in a Drugstore. My only dislike is that this pad has wings that I cut to adjust fit. These pad may actually be created for another, monthly requirement.
I owe you a Thank You note for Flame and Book. Hopefully, I’ll complete my intention…soon. Thank you as always for your personal story. Oh, may your health challenges–calm down. Too much! I hope you are very well to enjoy this beautiful Season. I look forward to seeing you in my on order copy of Advanced Pets by Ari Seth Cohen. You and Bansky can be seen within the preview on Amazon! Brava!
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

December 12, 2024 at 2:30 PM

Well, I’m thrilled that you’re getting proper care.I think as I get older I don’t have the same excitement for the holidays as in the past. But that’s fine. I still love wrapping gifts. But the most important thing is that you’re being cared for. I can’t figure out that thing about holding your tongue. Help please.
Try different pads and see which ones you like. More absorbant, less absorbant, more fragrance less? You think anything is easy?
- Michele
  · Reply
  
  December 12, 2024 at 5:11 PM
  
  Dearest E
  So sorry to hear about your latest health and heart news but glad you have a new doctor to help with your care strategy. That is a lot of water to drink, as I share your dislike of water. I use vitamin water 0 calorie lemon flavor to help meet my water intake – I wonder if the doctor thinks that or something similar would help in the hydration goals?
  I just saw an ad today for bladder leak pads called Attn: Grace. They sell them online and look like they might be a good product to try – all natural and no synthetic fragrances or dyes etc.
  You and the Italian always look stylish even just going to the doctor!
  I love your view that you have while wrapping – and the gorgeous photo from Italy.
  My greatest wish for you this holiday season is to find your moments of joy and peace! Sending hugs and hope to chat soon.
  Xox
  M
Rita
· Reply

December 12, 2024 at 11:33 AM

Dear Contessa, I do pray this new doctor helps. AI, we need to get used to it, won’t be going anywhere. Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and wonderful New Year.