PUPPY & HEALTH & MAKE UP

June 3, 2021 95 Comments

BETTY AS SHE IS NOW CALLED IS KEEPING ME BUSY!WE REALLY SHOULD HAVE NAMED HER FLOOZY AS IN FLOWER FLOOZY!SHE EATS MY FLOWERS!

ROSES, JASMINE, Santa Barbara DAISIES…………..she likes ALL OF THEM!

I tried to garden this weekend but my ASSISTANT kept running off with my flowers in her mouth!

IN THE 6-PACK!

Once she even carried my SPADE AWAY!

ALL of a sudden I am having a hard time going down to my knees and standing back up!I use to do it without even thinking!

Now it’s an EFFORT………again I feel I am too young for this CRAP to be happening!

AT WHAT AGE DID YOU NOTICE A CHANGE IN YOUR DAILY ACTIVITIES?

IT REALLY IS AN EYE OPENER!

ONE DAY YOU CAN DO………… AND THE NEXT NOT SO WELL!

“MOTHER……………BETTY IS EATING THE ROSES AGAIN!” Says Theodorable!

Pointing to the EVIDENCE!

“I TOLD YOU SHE WILL GET UPSET!YOU MUST STOP THIS NONSENSE!”Theodore exclaims!

BETTY SAYS “REALLY! It’s so FUN!”

“NOW LETS HAVE A CHAT BETTY!I HAVE LIVED HERE MUCH LONGER THEN YOU!”

“OKAY, I’M LISTENING Theodore!”Betty pipes up!

“SORRY ROSE!YOU WERE TOO PRETTY AND TASTEY!”

THEODORE SAYS:”I TRIED MOTHER BUT I DONOT THINK SHE UNDERSTOOD!

SHE IS STILL BITING MY EARS AND TAIL!”

THEODORE has been STOIC through out this whole process!AT first he disappeared for a week!Most likely thought she was visiting like the GRAND DOGS do on occasion!Then I found him and got him to come in the house.HE PURRS and does not BAT AN EYE!Betty is calm for a moment than gets too excited putting a paw on his back and bites his ear!AT that moment THEO says enough and GIVES BACK THE SAME HARSH TREATMENT THAT HAS BEEN BESTOWED ON HIM!

BITING!

HOWEVER after THEODORE BITES he licks BETTY where he has bitten her!!!

A LESSON PERHAPS……….

I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS ALL TO BE OVER AND WE ARE ONE HAPPY FAMILY!

ON ANOTHER NOTE I FINALLY CHANGED MY GENERAL PRACTITIONER!

TOOK ME LONG ENOUGH……….I KNOW.

I changed my doctor at KAISER as I was not getting THE CORRECT ANSWERS OR HELP I needed.

I’ll spare you the details of our last correspondence!

New doctor phones me at home and I ask her to repeat her last name…….(IT WAS LONG)

She comes back with “HOW MAY I HELP YOU?”

THESE CAPITAL LETTERS = NOT A NICE TONE.

MY CAPS ARE ENTHUSIASM.Just so you know the difference!

I said,” Have you looked into my file on the computer…..?”

“NO”she says.

I reply maybe you should do that as I have been sick for FIVE YEARS!Then we can make another phone appointment!

SHE BECAME VERY DEFENSIVE!

I was NICE in my request.Maybe a bit FRUSTRATED!

SHE SUGGESTED I HAD MADE THE APPOINTMENT THAT MONDAY MORNING.

NOPE!

My response. Made on Friday morning. It’s now MONDAY morning at 9:30 AM.

WHAT DOCTOR CALLS ANYONE LET A LONE A NEW PATIENT WITHOUT LOOKING UP THEIR MEDICAL INFORMATION?

I gave her a SYNOPSIS of my health AND THE REASON I HAD PICKED HER!She had gone to an OSTEOPATH SCHOOL which a few of YOU DEAR READERS have mentioned I needed to see in the past.I could not find B-12 lab tests under my name or medical number.LAST LAB KAISER DID was 2019 she said.MY OLD DOCTOR HAD TOLD ME THEY HAD BEEN DONE RECENTLY!THE MOST RECENT LABS I have HAD DONE WERE in January OF THIS YEAR 2021, but NO B VITAMIN.

MENTIONED TO her ADRENAL FATIGUE was a cause that the FUNCTIONAL DOCTOR had come up with she said KAISER will not call that legit. She knows if she puts a referral into an ENDOCRINOLOGIST they will not approve it!I told her I had seen an Endocrinologist four years prior and she too had ZOOMED in on THE ADRENALS and Vitamin B four years ago.I had done this on my own outside of KAISER.

I complained of neck pain. She told me I had spoken with a SPINE SPECIALIST a few months ago!I had no re-collection of that!

GEEZZZ is the brain FOG THAT BAD I THOUGHT?

After our phone call I went into messages……..YES I DID ON 9/11/2020!!!!!!!!!

That would have been about my osteoporosis as it was referencing C5 C6 with NO INSTABILITY in the neck.

We ended with her wanting to see me in person if the VERTIGO was still an issue.

I MADE THE APPOINTMENT WHICH HAPPENED on JUNE 2, 2021.

TO BRIEF YOU AS I HAVE NOT MENTIONED THIS I had my first VERTIGO EXPERIENCE on MARCH 29th, 2021.

WORSE than my EPISODES of losing my vision and feeling faint!

HAD TWO VERTIGO EPISODES IN ONE DAY on MAY 22,2021.

(I was washing the pots in the kitchen sink so was looking DOWN for awhile.

Second came closing French doors bending down to lock in place.)

ALWAYS the head is looking DOWN!

I HUNG UP THINKING WHAT A HORRIBLE CONVERSATION……………I was better off with MY DOCTOR BEFORE!

(Phone call lasted 13 minutes.)

TODAY IS JUNE 2, 2021 and I have had my visit with the NEW DOCTOR!

THIS NEW DOCTOR IS HANDS DOWN 10 TIMES BETTER then what I HAD EXPERIENCED FOR THE LAST 6 YEARS!

Let’s just say we got off on the WRONG FOOT……..Maybe me asking how to spell her name or asking if she had looked into my file?Who knows……….what matters is she listened and I had VERY HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE UPON ARRIVING.Perhaps, I was NERVOUS about meeting her face to face?NO NOT AT ALL………quite the contrary!I had absolutely zero HOPE of finding answers.So, this is a pleasant outcome!

She is sending me for an MRI of the BRAIN as the last one was done in 2017!

Referring me to an ENDOCRINOLOGIST.

Looked in MY EAR……..ONE EAR ONLY!Said it looked fine so hopefully THE VERTIGO has gone BYE BYE!

MEANWHILE,I’m SEEING A FUNCTIONAL DOCTOR AS WELL…………………who has me on all kinds of herbal remedies.

My FAVORITE being THE SEAWATER GLASS VIALS!

HER DIAGNOSIS of Me:

Kidneys were off and lungs were congested.Heart was OKAY!

SO, was digestion!

A theory of a virus being at the base of my skull causing inflammation and she mentioned a hormonal imbalance but did not specify which hormone.

Blood pressure was okay.

Except for it going DOWN when I sat up quickly from a flat lying position.

ADRENAL GLAND WAS STRESSED.

I AM TO eat Dinner for Breakfast because she thinks that by eliminating processed grains TOAST & CEREAL my system will start to heal.I am to EAT ZERO GLUTEN FREE ITEMS and NOTHING WITH SUGAR!If you start looking at labels EVERYTHING HAS SUGAR!Even the non-diary yogurts…..and vinegar as well!

(SO, WE ARE BACK TO FOOD AGAIN BEING THE CULPRIT.HOW MANY TIMES HAVE I BEEN THROUGH THIS?)

She found my second vertebra was inflamed and I have a virus!

HOW ABOUT THAT FOR A DIAGNOSIS IN A FIRST MEETING!!

I ACTUALLY HAVE HOPE WITH THIS LADY for the FIRST TIME IN YEARS!

I will let you know how I progress…………

WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THAT BY BUYING A FOUNDATION/CONCEALER FROM INSTAGRAM THAT I WOULD SEE MYSELF LOOKING BACK AT MYSELF ; SCROLLING THROUGH FACEBOOK!

NOT I!

I KNOW I DIDNOT USE A FILTER!

I seem to have some pink lines showing up?!!

The photo on the Left is from a short video I did for them.

The photo on the Right is a SELFIE I took after the video with make up on.

I ADORE THEIR PRODUCTS.

THE CONCEALER is used as a foundation and put on with a brush.

The more you use it the softer your skin becomes and this I can VERIFY AS ABSOLUTELY TRUE!

IT’s a small tube so GREAT for Travel whenever we get to do THAT ACTIVITY AGAIN!

The price point is VERY GOOD AS WELL……..$39.97 for a tube.

A LITTLE BIT GOES ALONG WAY!

THIS COMPANY is a TAP AWAY! Fiera Cosmetics TAP HERE!

THEY ONLY SELL FIVE PRODUCTS!

Which I like.

I have tried ALL their products except the neck cream which is en-route to me this moment

SO, I can report in on that say in a months time?

Would you like to hear about THAT REPORT?

I have had a difficult time so far this year………..with Health issues and just not feeling right.

I hope with SUMMER upon us that will change!

MY ITALIAN is headed to MAINE this weekend for a wedding which I had to back out of………….

LET’S SEIZE THIS SUMMER WITH A HAT, A CAFTAN AND A BASKET BAG!

Don’t forget to be WILD AND WONDERFUL!

HAVE FUN PEOPLE……….FIND JOY IN THE DAY TO DAY TASKS!

I know it can be hard sometimes!

XXX

PS. The ENDOCRINOLOGIST CALLED!I HAVE A VIDEO APPOINTMENT TOMORROW!

ANY QUESTIONS I SHOULD ASK………….I SO VALUE YOUR OPINIONS AND EXPERTISE!

WOMEN HELPING WOMEN AND A FEW MEN TOO!

THANK YOU WONDERFUL READERS!

I always lose a few of YOU when I talk about my HEALTH.I understand you want it to all be FASHION, FUN AND FABULOUS but this is a way for me to keep track of what the HECK IS GOING ON!Like a DIARY in a way plus I get EXCELLENT INPUT FROM YOU MY READERS!

BELIEVE ME I HAVE FOLLOWED EVERY SUGGESTION OR PATH……….and I THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!

I am SORRY if I have disappointed you in anyway.

THE PATH TO GOOD HEALTH FOR ALL……….TRUELY IT IS EVERYTHING!

95 Comments

Leave your reply.

MK
· Reply

June 26, 2021 at 9:00 AM

I have just found your blog therefore late in posting a comment.
I was diagnosed with osteoporosis several years ago and was referred to an endocrinologist. He treated me as a science experiment and had, in my opinion, no real clue how to treat osteoporosis. He became offended when I asked questions, therefore I left his practice. My new gynecologist advised me to go to a clinic specializing in nothing but osteoporosis. This clinic is affiliated with a teaching hospital and is staffed with women. What a profound difference this has made in my life. Yes, I am on medication and will be, but each visit I get information that is helpful and I feel heard. This clinic (called a fracture liaison clinic) has a reputation for excellence and has doctors from all over the US coming to observe and learn techniques.
When I started this process many years ago I learned through research that many specialists (orthopedic surgeons, endocrinologist, gynecologist, general practitioners) treat osteoporosis, but none “own” it. The treatment is scattershot at best. A clinic or practitioner that treats only osteoporosis is mandatory.
Good luck with your health quest.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 26, 2021 at 9:13 AM
  
  THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR TELLING ME ALL THIS!
  THE ENDOCRINOLOGIST I just spoke too as well seemed OFF TO ME!
  WHAT STATE ARE YOU IN MAY I ASK?
  XXX
Janey
· Reply

June 15, 2021 at 3:14 AM

I had episodes of vertigo for several years. After one episode I just happened to be at my audiologist for a hearing test, mentioned it to her, and she did some manipulation to fix it, that was several years ago
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 15, 2021 at 8:16 AM
  
  THANK YOU JANEY for the moment the VERTIGO seems to have VANISHED!
  I was given some exercises to do with the head too……maybe I FIXED IT!!
  XXX
Mary James
· Reply

June 13, 2021 at 5:50 AM

I have seen for my parents and myself a definite change in Dr.’s treating seniors versus their meal ticket they hope for many years, i.e. the younger patients. Hand out pills and maybe you will go away was the usual antidote for my parents, and even for myself, I don’t think Dr.’s listen as well to seniors. Not sure why….and I realize I am generalizing-but have seen it so often, and even now for myself. One really has to pursue which you have (bless you) and have them take an interest. It’s hard work to find someone, and it seems you have and maybe, maybe some answers and cures will come from it. You’re a fighter….and despite these health issues, you do look marvelous my dear….always the fashion plate….and that garden…heaven, heaven….
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 14, 2021 at 7:55 AM
  
  THANK YOU MARY!
  GOSH FIVE YEARS AGO I WOULD NOT HAVE CONSIDERED MYSELF A SENIOR BUT NOW I DO!
  I DO NOT HAVE MUCH FIGHT LEFT IN ME!
  LAST NIGHT I WAS LYING IN BED AND THE EYES LOCKED AND I COULD NOT FOCUS.THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED LYING DOWN………that was a first.I closed my eyes and went to sleep…….only to wake up early this AM with the back of my skull killing me!I did not move stayed on my back the whole night long.
  THANK YOU for your input!GREATLY APPRECIATED!
  XXX
Hilda Smith
· Reply

June 10, 2021 at 4:43 AM

You know I look forward to your posts. Those two will be friends. Loved their conversation. I laughed out loud.
I hope this doc helps you. You may remember I am a great believer in complementary medicine. But it is a matter of finding the right practionerers. my girl that I went to for more than 20 years who diagnosed my adrenal fatigue when doctors had no answers is incredible. I had twice weekly acupuncture and lymphatic drainage. Also gave me home massage for GG to do. I hope you get some answers. Sending you healing and better health. xxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 10, 2021 at 7:10 AM
  
  OH GOSH………NO I DONOT THINK I WAS FOLLOWING YOU THEN!
  I MAY HAVE TO COME FOR A VISIT AND SEE YOUR GAL!
  LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE……….I NEED TO GOOGLE THAT!
  THANK YOU FOR THE HOPE HILDA!
  XXX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

June 8, 2021 at 8:00 AM

WHAT IS THE CALIFORNIA BRAND?
KITE HILL?
I HAVE PAIN IN MY SHOULDER!ARM ACTUALLY………FOR MONTHS NOW.LETS DISCUSS THAT WHEN I SEE YOU HERE FOR LUNCH!
NO NOT EATING GLUTEN NOR NON GLUTEN…….doesn’t leave much to pick from!!!!
XXX
Karen Persson
· Reply

June 8, 2021 at 1:03 AM

Hi Elizabeth!

Betty is so adorable and it’s so fun to see photos of her and the cat!

Fantastic that the new doctor was so thorough with the first visit! She sounds promising and as if she knows what she’s doing. So now you’re supposed to eat gluten?? I can eat gluten but I just have to watch it with wheat, rye, oats, etc (allergy). I stopped eating added sugar 4-1/2 years ago and I feel much better. I used to have pain in my shoulders but that’s gone. Here in The Netherlands it’s easy to find food without added sugar (always reading labels), including honey, sweetener, anything with ”ose’ in the ending of a word, etc. No fruit juices for me, either. In CA it’s indeed much harder to find products without added sugar. The dairy free yoghurts do have sugar except for the Califa brand which I love! I can’t get it here. It’s expensive but so good.

Hope your health issues get resolved soon! See you in July!

Love and hugs,

Karenxoxo
Juliet
· Reply

June 7, 2021 at 7:03 PM

Poor Theodore … having to break in another one. Sort of like being a drill sergeant with new recruits. Thrilled that both new doctors seem promising … and the need Kaiser doctor listened. Interested to hear about zoom appointment yesterday. xo
Cara (S. FL)
· Reply

June 7, 2021 at 1:46 PM

Fosamax is a pretty bad drug, Elizabeth. Maybe do some research on that. If you feel dizzy after having your head low, ask the doctor about orthostatic hypotension.

Puppy is adorable and I’m impressed with Theodore’s forbearance.

I hope you get better soon!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 7, 2021 at 1:58 PM
  
  YES, I KNOW AND FOUND OUT THIS WEEK I SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN PUT ON IT!MY PERCENTAGE FOR BROKEN BONES WAS LESS THAN ONE PERCENT!
  YEP DONE THAT TEST A FEW TIMES AND WITH FUNCTIONAL DOC I DO……..BUT MY MEDICAL CENTER SAYS THAT ISNOT THE RIGHT WAY TO DO IT!
  HAVE STOPPED FOSAMAX after almost three years!!!SO, IT WAS NOT THE CULPRIT AS THIS ALL STARTED WAY BEFORE.
  XXX
Stephanie
· Reply

June 6, 2021 at 6:25 PM

I can feel the love in all of these thoughtful comments.
Keep sharing…we love you. And personally for me, I always take away a few gold nuggets from your posts AND from your clever followers.
Today? Zypan. Never heard of it but going to research ASAP as I have tummy troubles too.
Dramamine for vertigo? Good to know!
And I’m waiting with baited breath on that neck cream review. At 64, my neck has seen better days. Love the concealer…!!
Keep on sharing your beautiful, messy life with us. It takes a village.
xx
Stephanie
PS a big YES on the children’s book
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 6, 2021 at 7:25 PM
  
  LOVE THE TEXTURE OF THE NECK CREAM………………..will report back!
  YES! ZYPAN STRAIGHTEN ME OUT IN THAT DEPARTMENT!
  FUN YES MUST LOOK INTO THE BOOK IDEA!
  XXX
Dee Tivenan
· Reply

June 6, 2021 at 2:50 PM

Please keep me posted.
Love
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 6, 2021 at 7:22 PM
  
  I OWE YOU A CALL!
  XXX
Elizabeth
· Reply

June 5, 2021 at 5:13 PM

Elizabeth I cannot believe how long you have been going thru all of this! I hope that your new doctors work out and that you finally get some help and relief.

As for the pup and its adventures, I agree with so many others, you need to write a book! It would be fabulous!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 6, 2021 at 7:21 PM
  
  YEP AND I JUST FIGURED OUT ITS BEEN OVER FIVE YEARS…………….I ACTUALLY CLOSED MY SHOP 8 or 9 years ago……..and that was THE REASON!I DIDNOT FEEL WELL ENOUGH TO BE ALONE IN THE SHOP!THINGS WERE HAPPENING THEN THAT SCARED ME………………..I THOUGHT AT THAT TIME IT WAS MY HEART!AS I HAD HEART SURGERY AT AGE 50!
  I didnot start writing things down until five years ago………BIG SIGH!
  XXX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

June 5, 2021 at 9:18 AM

Betty is such a doll, and I love seeing how she and Theodore interact. It’s early yet in their bonding experience, so give it time. I have vertigo off and on, but I don’t think a doctor can see vertigo by looking inside your ears. Vertigo is caused when a tiny microscopic crystal in your inner ear becomes displaced. I’ve tried every exercise known to man, and this one works EVERY TIME! I just did it Tuesday morning and bye, bye vertigo. Give it a try. https://youtu.be/xTnV3m4bWDg Hoping the new doctor gives you some valid answers! Love, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 6, 2021 at 7:17 PM
  
  HOW ON EARTH CAN YOU GET TO YOUR BED WHEN THE VERTIGO HITS!?THERE IS NO WAY I COULD WALK!
  I HAVE WATCHED THE VIDEO THREE TIMES………..DID THE TESTING PART AND NOTHING HAPPENED SO MAYBE I DON’T HAVE IT ANYMORE?MAYBE THE BENDING OVER TO SWAT Miss Betty FOR BITING MY SHOES AND HANGING ON LIKE AN APE HAS DONE THE TRICK!!!
  I HOPE SO!
  I HAD FORGOTTEN YOU HAD VERTIGO!
  XXX
Mary Ann Pickett
· Reply

June 5, 2021 at 8:53 AM

I hope you get some answers…this is so tough on you. Love that you have the puppy diversion.I need to try the concealer. I just stocked up on some so I am pinning this to remember when I need it. You look amazing!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 6, 2021 at 7:15 PM
  
  WELL THANK YOU!
  A LITTLE MAKE UP DOES MIRACLES!!
  
  XXX
Pipistrello
· Reply

June 5, 2021 at 3:14 AM

Ciao Bella,

These posts all about You, your adventures and up & downs, your furry family and your beautiful casa are the best for me and really why I love your blog. Ageing is such a bore, but you are looking radiant, dear Contessa!!

I hope there is some joy to come for you from this new doctor, but I’m really not surprised to read you’ve been enjoying a bit of vertigo lately as it’s really all the rage with my friends right now. Just today discussing this (alongside the almost monthly discoveries of more things going wrong or disappointing us in the physical sense) with my best friend who’s been dealing with it this fortnight, and her dad has it in a bad way. It might likely be the age we all are now, sadly, but there’s also a chance that a virus can trigger it, which is where my own probably came from last year. Ear rocks. Who’d have thought they were the latest hot thing!

Baci xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:25 AM
  
  YOU JUST SAID SOMETHING THAT HAS A TRIGGER WITH ME!
  A VIRUS!
  I HAVE BEEN TOLD I HAVE A VIRUS IN MY HEAD BY THE FUNCTIONAL DOCTOR AND THE CRANIAL SACRUM LADY!!!!
  ALL MAKES SENSE!ITS LIKE I HAVE A COLD IN MY RIGHT NOSTRIL EACH MORNING.BACK OF HEAD HURTS WHEN I WAKE UP!I HAVE BEEN CALLING IT SINUS ISSUES BUT MAYBE ITS THE BLOODY VIRUS!!!?
  OH THANK YOU LITTLE BAT WOMAN!
  DID YOU READ ABOVE DRAMAMINE IS SUPPOSE TO HELP WITH THE VERTIGO!!!
  TWO PEOPLE HAVE TOLD ME THIS!
  XXX
Jill James
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 10:44 PM

The pictures of Betty and Theodore in your glorious Summer garden are just wonderful. Hopefully in time they will be friends and Betty will stop eating your roses.
I am saddened that you are still experiencing so many complex health issues. Hopefully your new doctor will find causes and solutions. Yes , with age our bodies do change I know I can now longer spend all day in the garden , I am done after just a few hours these days.
Looking your usual glam self in your pretty caftan and large hat. Please take care . xxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:27 AM
  
  I DIDNOT HAVE MY CAMERA WITH ME JILL AND HAD TO HOP TO THE HOUSE TO GET AND THEY LUCKILY WERE STILL AT IT!!!LOTS OF MISSED OPPORTUNITIES HERE BUT THEY ARE FUN TO WATCH…….I NORMALLY BREAK THEM UP BUT SOMETIMES I LET IT PLAY OUT!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
Ms. Mary
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 7:22 PM

Sad…and glad: Sad you are still suffering, but glad you found a new doctor who seems to listen. Sending you long distance hugs and peaceful, healing thoughts. Loved the pictures of Betty & Theo in the garden.
<3
Heidi
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 6:22 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
Oh dear, more trouble getting answers from your Dr! I hope the tests will help you in that department. Vertigo is awful, I got it a few times, my dr banged on my scalp on the top, sides, back etc, after about 20 minutes the spinning stopped. Something about resetting the crystals in the inner ear that get out of whack. We laughed because she said it felt weird for her to be smacking me, but I told her whatever if it works it’s ok with me! I forget the name but it’s an actual medical technique, you can look it up!
Now, about that book. If I’m the “Heidi” you’re referring to, I say let’s get busy and do it! Well, maybe not until you’re feeling better. But it would be a really fun project! Let me know when you’re ready! (If I’m not then, humph!)
About aging and aches/pains etc – Yoga is keeping me flexible and stronger than ever. I still have about 10 more lbs on me than I’d like, but I feel better than ever most of the time. (The ear issue is separate, I WILL get to the bottom of that!) So,, do not despair, you can turn this around once you have some definitive answers.
Enjoy your little furry hooligans, smell your pretty roses and I hope you will feel better soon!
XO Heidi
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:29 AM
  
  I NEED TO COME UP WITH MORE PHOTOS THEN IF WE ARE DOING A BOOK!!!
  LOVE THE IDEA!
  XOXO
Rosemarie
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 3:42 PM

CONTESSA – your garden is amazing – so beautiful! Taking the paths one sees beauty with each step.
Betty was given the perfect home with you! She will soon settle in with T and B. It’s so much for her to adapt to in a short time.
Finally a dr that is really listening! Also taking action! She must know how frustrated you are with not improving health wise over the last few years.
Functional dr – this I’ve never heard of where I live.
Congrats on being an ambassador! The company has chosen well.
Aging – I find flexibility/mobility starts going in early 70’s (I’m 72) unless one keeps exercise up. I’m doing stretching/meditation class and chair yoga via ZOOM – have seen an improvement in the past few weeks – and walking. 7 years ago it was nothing for me at work to go up and down 500 plus stairs – walk down hallways etc in checking out the bldg I worked in. Tho I don’t think the knees would like it now.
The best is to just ENJOY each day.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:33 AM
  
  FUNCTIONAL = EASTERN MEDICINE VERSES WESTERN.
  SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAVE BEEN FORTUNATE ROSEMARIE!KEEP DOING WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN DOING!!
  ARE YOU GOING BACK TO WORK SOON OR ARE THE THEATERS STILL CLOSED?
  XXX
D. A. Squires
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 3:03 PM

I really don’t know how you have coped over the last five years, or even kept track of all the ups and downs… YOU are amazing. Tenacity, perseverance, positivity, these are your strengths and have supported you through it all. But there are also limits to what one can cope with and endure without help and improvement. So hoping this new MD proves to be the one who can solve the symptoms, but the proof, as they say, will be in the pudding. I find the trend in medicine toward remote, telephone, zoom, email etc. so frustrating and wrong!! An office visit is now a rare luxury, whereas it should be the NORM. Adore the photos, they are precious… your three musketeers are ready for their book debut : ) : ) And, please do NOT care about fair weather readers who cannot bear some rain… your true blue friends are weather impervious (and they would go through sleet and hail to read your posts). XO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:37 AM
  
  I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS ALWAYS MAKE ME LAUGH AND SMILE!
  WELL I LOST FOUR SO FAR AND HAVE GAINED ABOUT 20!
  SO ALL GOOD THERE.
  I WAS AT A BREAKING POINT RECENTLY…………..ESPECIALLY WHEN I HAD TO BACK OUT OF GOING TO THIS WEDDING!
  MY WORLD IS GETTING PRETTY SMALL………….THANKS FOR BEING IN IT!!!
  XOXO
kim
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 12:44 PM

Elizabeth, Love these photos- especially with Theo on the bench and Betty under. Those rascals better behave! I just think Theo needs time! I am really glad you are sharing your journey with all this medical stuff because you might get some answers from someone who has been through the same ! You have to be your own advocate now. I am hopeful with the new doctor and glad she listened. Is the doc telling you what to eat an Osteopath? I am confused, but I do think they are good. Love that concealer on you. You looked luminous when I saw you in person. They got the right gal for their product!! So happy for you. xo Kim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:19 AM
  
  NO NEW DOC NOT TELLING ME WHAT TO EAT THE FUNCTIONAL DOCTOR DOES THAT!
  NEED TO FIGURE OUT MY BREAKFAST HERE………….HOW DOES A CHICKEN BREAST SOUND?!!!
  UGH…………..
  THANK YOU AND ALHOA!!!!
  XXX
Lorna
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 11:52 AM

Oh Elizabeth, I was hoping to hear that you’re doing better. Maybe this doctor will find out what is wrong and get you all better. You are an inspiration with your smiles and positive outlook. I really loved the photos of Betty and Theo. I assume Banksy has still not made friends with the new-comer ? I have not been feeling the best lately. I’m very grumpy,mostly because of work, but also because of all that’s happening around me, as I mentioned on the blog.
It’s a pity you had to miss the wedding. We might take a trip somewhere and I keep hearing Tuscany calling my name.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:16 AM
  
  BANKSY IS LIKE A FATHER………GIVES LITTLE WARNING SIGNS BUT LOOKS AFTER WITH TENDER EYES!
  HE CAN NOT HURT BETTY AS HIS SNOUT IS IN THE WAY!
  BETTY LIKES TO POOP ON HIS BED!!!!!!SO FAR I HAVE FOUND IT BEFORE HE TAKES A SNOOZE!
  TODAY THEODORE LEFT A DEAD RAT IN THE KITCHEN I WAS ABLE TO SCOOP UP BEFORE BETTY SAW IT!
  IT’S 7 AM AND I’M ALREADY EXHAUSTED!
  XXX
Tara Dillard
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 11:37 AM

Oh the cat & dog photos…………classics of the genre. On some of your FABULOUS concrete.

Keep talking the health. It’s as helpful as your garden, food, clothes………….all the things keeping us happy, and healthy.

Your pics, the garden, oooh la la. LOVE.

Switched to healthy diet, lots of homemade refrigerator pickled mixed vegetables, large curd cottage cheese, eggs, cabbage salad instead of lettuce, homemade soups, fruit fruit fruit…. Ha, will probably die of chemicals from all of it. Feel great, thin, until then. I know you are doing every right thing for your health, keep posting it…………..Godspeed one reader………..sends along the right answer/s for you.

BTW, all, and alas, beware Organic Fertilizer for your yard……….it’s a mix of human feces, industrial chemicals, pharmaceutical drugs ‘lightly’ treated. Sold at Lowe’s, Home Depot, Ace…………………ugh……………from an article, The Guardian.

Garden & BE WELL………….all………………..

XO Tara
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:13 AM
  
  THANKS FOR THE HEADS UP!
  WE MAKE OUR OWN COMPOST SO NEVER BUY THANK GOD!
  HUMAN FECES!WONDER WHERE THEY COLLECT THAT FROM!
  CABBAGE IS REALLY GOOD FOR US I HAVE BEEN MAKING THAT TOO MORE OFTEN……..FULL OF VITAMINS!
  THANKS TARA!
  XXX
judith
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 10:59 AM

You look amazing, strolling through your beautiful gardens. The Meideland Roses look spectacular; wish I could find some. I like the photos and your dialog for the animals; Theodore looks like he might smack Betty at any minute! I like the little vignette next to which he is sitting on the bench, with the bust, the urn and other items. Very YOU. So, keep up the questions for the doctor; get to know this new one and insist that she get to know you. I believe you will figure it out soon. All of us are in the same boat as far as aging. My plan is just to keep moving as long as I can. Thank you for another enjoyable post. Keep up your good attitude, Contessa!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:09 AM
  
  NO PROMISES THERE!
  AS FAR AS THE ATTITUDE!
  YES,THAT VIGNETTE WAS PAINTED BY HEIDI WHO COMMENTS HERE!IT RESIDES IN MY KITCHEN!IT IS VERY ME!
  XXX
Robin
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 10:34 AM

Cara Contessa,

Theodore and Betty are so adorable together. Actually, Theodore looks as if his patience is being tested. They will learn to tolerate each other.

So happy you have a new Dr. you feel confidant with. I hope the other specialists are as thorough. You have been through so much with your health, and you deserve resolution.

Baci, baci from Umbria, Robin
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:06 AM
  
  YES THEODORE HAS A TON OF PATIENCE BUT SEE TODAYS INSTAGRAM POST!!!
  HE HAS HAD ENOUGH!
  GOT the ENDROCRINOGIST TO GIVE ME THE CORTISOL TEST FOR ADRENALS……..
  DID I MENTION ADRENAL FATIGUE IS NOT A THING IN THE MEDICAL WORLD!!!!!
  ITS SOMETHING A HOMEOPATH MADE UP!
  BUT YET 21 MILLION HAVE SEARCHED FOR IT ON THE INTERNET!
  BUT NO ONE REALLY HAS IT!!!!!!!!!!
  XXX
Candace Wilson Culp
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 10:06 AM

Oh, dear. I’m sorry you are plagued by all this. And I like that you share with us… you are so authentic. A quality which is lacking in many online women. Truly hope you get some info from MRI. Hope it is good news and paves the way for better health. We never think about chronic conditions until they hit us at that certain age. Talk about rude awakening!
As for knees, mine have been painful since I was a child… I always cheated in church and leaned back against the pew to take pressure off. Worsened now with my RA. When my girl was little I was lamenting about some frustration and she said, “Mommie, sometimes you just have to say, ‘Oh well.’” Such great advice.
I think you’ve hit on the puppy’s right name… I had to change my cat snd dogs name a couple of times before getting the real name. Floozy is the best! Robert snd I had Rotties . He chose the breed cuz he had worked with the dogs from The Omen and said they were the smartest fog on earth. They were indeed incredible.
Your concealer is looks smashing, I may try.
Thankyou for these photos. Super fun to see pets figuring it out.
Xo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 5, 2021 at 7:00 AM
  
  I AGREE VERY SMART DOGS!
  SHE HAS JUST RUINED MY ANTIQUE FOOTSTOOL I USE HERE AT THE COMPUTER!
  SHALL WE SAY IT HAS PATINA NOW!
  I DO ADORE THE CONCEALER AS THEY CALL IT BUT THEY USE AS A FOUNDATION!
  LET ME KNOW IF YOU TRY IT!
  THANK YOU FOR FOLLOWING!!
  XXX
Katharine
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 9:21 AM

It’s always so much fun to hear about your escapades… even the health update – difficult as it is – is a taste of your reality you paint so vividly and so willingly share with us all. May summertime bring answers and well being.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 9:58 AM
  
  WOULD BE A GREAT BIRTHDAY GIFT if I DO SAY SO MYSELF!!!
  XXX
Joan
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 8:59 AM

I appreciate the update on your health concerns and hope the new doctor will be a help for you to find answers to your puzzling symptoms. I take a Super B Complex daily as well as Vit. D and glucosamine for my joints – they all help. I eat a whole foods, plant based diet, however I do cheat with a small serving of dessert, like a cookie.
Loved the dialogue between Betty and The Boss Cat. So cute. I had to have a meniscus tear in left knee repaired with laser surgery about 3 years ago and it has been great ever since. I do try to kneel on my foam pad when gardening
I do bend over to pull weeds, etc. even though 2 years ago the ortho doc told me not to after my right hip replacement. I need to keep limber and I have continued to practice my yoga, and daily walks outside. The only meds I take are a Prolia injection every 6 months which has made my osteoporosis diagnosis improve to ‘osteopenia’. I am 81.
You have such a wonderful attitude it inspires me so be assured you are loved and appreciated by your readers.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 10:05 AM
  
  I USE THE FOAM PAD AS WELL JOAN!
  I just asked this NEW DOCTOR for the PROLIA SHOT and she said YES as I am on that FOSOMAX at the moment………and that too could be a TRIGGER for me although I have been on it for 3 years this DEC.and all this started WAY BEFORE!
  THANK YOU JOAN………if you spoke with THE ITALIAN he would say otherwise poor man!I keep asking him to do away with ME!I say JUST PUT ME IN THE GARDEN and cover me up with some HAY!SO, the ATTITUDE IS NOT ALWAYS UP UP UP!
  I AM SO TIRED OF NOT BEING ABLE TO DO WHAT I WANT TO DO AS I NEED TO SAVE MY ENERGY FOR SAY DINNER PREP!I APPRECIATE YOU COMMENT MORE THAN YOU KNOW!
  THIS IS SOMETHING I ENJOY AND CAN SIT TO DO IT!!WHICH IS A GOOD THING AS I CANNOT STAND FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME!
  XXX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

June 4, 2021 at 8:57 AM

VIA EMAIL;

Elizabeth,
You did not disappointment me in any way talking about your health! Healthy stuff is scary and can feel lonely dealing with all these unknowns!
I am looking forward to seeing you in person and connecting.

Luba
Lisa Thomson
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 8:43 AM

Sheesh. You’ve been through so much, health wise, LA CONTESSA. I’m so happy to hear that your new doc knows what she is talking about and is very thorough. At first, I thought it wasn’t going to work out. Goes to show first impressions (especially over telephone or email) can be WRONG. Here’s to summer and improving health for you! The pics of Theo and Betty are absolutely precious. Theo does look all knowing and regal. That make up sounds miraculous. I’m beginning to notice it’s harder to get up off the ground. My knees complain. I use a yoga block to sit on if I’m doing a low to the ground task. It helps a ton. Do you have one you can use in the garden? It gives your legs a break, and makes it far easier to get up off the ground! I’m 56 soon to be 57 and I’m noticing a slowing down.
Anissa
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 8:28 AM

Thank you for always talking about the real day to day events. Getting older and it’s surprises tops my list! My husband had bad vertigo. He went to an ear, nose and throat doctor who specializes in vertigo. As simple as it sounds, he had him sit in a special chair the tilted and had the crystals in his ears adjusted. My husband hates doctors, but this did the trick. He even said he thought it was BS. But that was about 3 years ago and still no vertigo.

You have such an optimistic attitude. Life is so hard, but I’m finding the beauty of animals and gardens helps me remember what I’m grateful for and the beauty that does exist in this difficult world.

As I say, keep on keeping on! I always love your new posts!
- Maria
  · Reply
  
  July 1, 2021 at 8:57 AM
  
  I worked with several Physical Therapists that were trained to perform this procedure! It worked amazingly well. Sometimes it took a second procedure, but with great results. Who knew we had crystals in our inner ear??
  - LA CONTESSA
    · Reply
    
    Author
    
    July 6, 2021 at 8:47 AM
    
    GOOD TO HEAR MARIA!!!
    IT WORKED FOR ME!
    AND I ONLY DID ONE SIDE!!!
    XXX
Nita Wright
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 7:36 AM

Love how well you take care of yourself inside and out! You never give up on your own heath, it’s inspiring! Thank goodness for pets and gardening. Seeing that beauty is healing for the soul.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 9:57 AM
  
  OKAY IF YOU SAY SO!!!
  THE PETS AND GARDENING MAKE ME SMILE!!!
  AS YOU KNOW!!!
  XXX
Andrea Serrahn
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 7:25 AM

I think Betty’s big brother may be to blame for the flower earring behavior! When Banksy was my next door neighbor, he lived up to his animal breed reputation by devouring my garden. Nothing was off limits; well maybe the cactus. He loved my holiday pumpkins! I’d set some ground rules soon lol….
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 9:55 AM
  
  COULD BE BUT BANKSY DOES NOT EAT THE ROSES…………..but he does GRAZE the LEMON BALM!!
  MONKEY SEE MONKEY DO!!!
  THANK GOODNESS I HAVE ENOUGH TO SHARE…………….she is NOW EATING ROCKS WE HAVE DISCOVERED!!!!
  EVEN MORE ALARMING!!!
  I SEE MARENZA NEXT WEEK!
  XXX
Ginger
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 6:56 AM

Elizabeth I’m so sorry for your ongoing health challenges! I applaud your tenacity in finding answers and seeking out medical professionals who truly care! I hope that health solutions are revealed to you and you begin to feel better. As far as your blog content, I love your writing and how you keep it all real! Please continue. Betty and the gang are so adorable and entertaining and your captures and captions are so fun and sweet, thanks for sharing! You and your garden are so vibrant and lovely, just a break of fresh air! The concealer/foundation looks and sounds intriguing too. Big hugs from Florida!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 7:11 AM
  
  HI GINGER!
  WELL NEW DOCTOR CANCELLED PHONE FOLLOW UP YESTERDAY!!!
  THAT WAS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE ACTUALLY!
  GUESS I WILL EMAIL HER ONCE I SEE THE MRI RESULTS AND HEAR WHAT ENDOCRINOLOGIST HAS TO SAY!
  THANKS FOR CHIMING IN!
  XXX
Rita
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 6:29 AM

This new format is wonderful and your beautiful photos are popping! Please keep posting about it all! What a journey this has been and always will be. Thanks for sharing and Hip Hip Hooray for the new Doctor! Don’t bend over while your Italian is gone. Love you, Bye
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 7:07 AM
  
  WHAT NEW FORMAT?
  RITA………….its the ONLY THING I CAN STILL DO!!!
  HARD NOT TO BEND WHEN PUPPY ATTACKS YOUR SHOE AND YOU CANNOT WALK FORWARD!
  AT THE MOMENT BETTY IS RIPPING UP ALL THE CARDS AND PAPER I HAD STASHED UNDER MY DESK!!
  I GUESS ITS A BLESSING AS I HAVE WAY TOO MUCH!
  SHE IS HELPING ME SPRING CLEAN!
  I HEAR YA…………moving SLOW.
  DISHWASHER IS BROKEN!I KEEP FORGETTING TO TELL THAT ITALIAN……….think I’ll just leave dirty dishes in there!
  THAT IS TOO MUCH STOOPING FOR ME!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
Terry
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 6:26 AM

I am so glad you have found a doctor who appears to be listening. Keep fighting for yourself until you get the results you want. I have two comments to add to all the others.

1) I also suffer from vertigo and have for a number of years. My wonderful internist told me one of the best and simplest remedies is Dramamine!!! I promise you it helps immensely. I carry it in my bag at all times. I keep it in my medicine chest at home. At the first sign of an attack, I take it immediately. Both my brother and sister also suffer from vertigo. I, of course, told them about Dramamine, and now they are never without. Same for a friend. She just couldn’t believe the relief. Like so many issues, the vertigo started for all of us when we entered are sixties. Most at around 65 – me closer to 60.

2) Please be careful of herbal remedies. Make sure your new doctor knows all that you are taking. Check with your pharmacist to make sure the herbal remedies aren’t reacting with any prescription medications you may take. Just a word of caution!
Love the Betty and her sibling stories. Just too precious!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 7:02 AM
  
  ANOTHER GAL TOLD ME ABOUT DRAMAMINE but in its scientific name!
  I BOUGHT IT!
  BUT MY VERTIGO IS SO BAD I WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE A PILL WHILE IN THE MOMENT/MINUTES/
  I WILL TRY………its almost been TWO WEEKS AND NO VERTIGO!!!
  HOPE ITS OVER!
  OTHERWISE I WILL PLACE DRAMAMINE AROUND THE HOUSE SO ITS CLOSE TO WHERE EVER I AM!
  ALL THOSE ANTIQUE BOXES I COLLECTED WILL COME IN HANDY NOW!!!!
  
  YES YES……..I AM ON TOP OF ALL OF THAT!FUNCTIONAL DOC HAS AKED TOO WHAT MEDS I WAS ON SO SHE HAS A CLUE.
  THEODORE IS NOW CONVALESCING due to a bite in his face!!NOT A PRETTY PICTURE!
  RAT or BETTY?
  MY GUESS IS BETTY!
  STAY TUNED FOR MORE!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
Carmen Dominguez
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 6:14 AM

I LOVE YOUR BLOG!! I LOVE HOW YOU EXPRESS YOURSELF. AND I LOVE YOUR CAPS!! It is refreshing, spontaneous, fun and beautiful. Even your health issues – which I wish you good luck with finding solutions! Your animals are wonderful and I love hearing about the Italian. I tuned into your blog as recommended by my beloved Ellie – who passed away a few years ago.. Ellie with ALS, living in Paris. You are my favorite blogger! Thanks, Contessa!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 6:55 AM
  
  YOU DONOT NEED TO TELL ME WHICH ELLIE!!!!!
  WE ALL MISS HER SO…………I wonder how the daughter GRACIE is doing……..she dropped off the INSTAGRAM SCROLL.
  Probably for the BETTER.
  GOSH HOW MANY YEARS HAS IT BEEN NOW?FOUR I THINK!
  THANK YOU FOR EXPRESSING YOUR LOVE OF MY BLOG!!!!
  BE WELL,
  XXXX
Dinner Party Guru
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 5:49 AM

You never disappoint my dear. I wish I was a doctor and could fix you right up! Not being a boot kisser but you truly amaze me with all you do and your amazing outlook even during these health issues. That to me is the measure of a true lady of which you are one!
Take care and hope all continues to go better and they find the culprit that is causing all this.

Xox
Amanda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 7:13 AM
  
  I SO WISH YOU COULD FIX ME TOO!
  THANK YOU!
  XXx
sbchica
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 5:03 AM

Oh my, yes, this aging bit is not for sissy’s. I have been following you for a couple of years and empathize with your health trials of life. Funny how one notices things on their bodies and wonder “Did this just happen all of a sudden, or has this been going on slowly, day by day?” My husband (75 YO) and I (71 YO) laugh (to keep from crying) about it all the time. Every day we wonder is this new cracking sound or hip, knee, back pain permanent? Luckily, so far, they are temporary and gone within hours or the next day.
I have taken care of my body since my 20’s with organics, yoga, swimming, African dancing, working out at the gym, you know the drill.
I must say that time is the real teacher; we must just keep trying to keep this old body going. I finally learned, after years of my chiropractor advising me to “slow down, don’t do so much, your body needs to heal itself, move, but not so much!”
In my 20’s I found out that food and food combing was the answer to all of our problems. Have I followed my own advice? No, not all the time. My bowels, oh dear gawd I think I should live in a jungle and eat only berries, nothing processed, at all! Sugar and any “white” foods (flour, rice, potatoes) are killers for me.

So, now I go about doing yin yoga daily because if I don’t my body is stiff the whole day. My trainer comes to the house twice a week and my husband has started “pumping iron”, as well. I eat “live” foods because if I don’t, it’s diarrea all day the next day.

So dear Contessa, I am blithering now, but please continue to take care of yourself. As they say “life’s a bitch and then you die” but I like to say ” Life is grand, enjoy it”
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 7:21 AM
  
  YES, I CAN RELATE TO ALL THAT YOU ARE SAYING!
  SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAVE A GOOD ROUTINE…………KEEP DOING WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND AS FAR AS FOOD YOU KNOW BEST WHAT YOU CAN TOLERATE AND CANNOT!
  LOOK INTO ZYPAN.The Functional Doc has me taking two tablets before each meal.
  ITS WORKING!I use to have terrible diarrhea as well………..would never leave the house in the AM!
  LET ME KNOW…………XXX
Diana Amato
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 5:02 AM

Your garden is always a source of beauty and clam for me. The conversations between Theo and Betty are very entertaining and lighthearted. It is exactly the dose of of good humor that so many of us need these days. I hope your new doctor is able to put you on a better path. You have every right for want and achieve optimum health and wellness for yourself. Don’t you ever give up!
The past few days here in Ohio have been full of thunderstorms and rain. It is something to see the lush green and full late Spring bloom that everyone awaits. I am constantly in awe of just how much GREEN there is!
Quick note: I was able to figure out that somehow you are not subscribed to my blog. Not sure how this happened..maybe subscribe again?
Baci and Abbracci
Zingara
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 7:24 AM
  
  LUSH AND GREEN.
  THUNDER TERRIFIES ME!HOW ARE YOU HANDLING THAT?
  GUESS WE CAN GET USE TO IT!
  OFF TO RE SUBSCRIBE AND TRY AND CATCH UP ON YOUR BLOG!
  FUNNY AS I WAS ONE OF THE FIRST TO SUBSCRIBE!
  THESE COMPUTERS………..DRIVE ME CRAZY!!!
  XXX
  - Kimberly
    · Reply
    
    July 31, 2021 at 9:03 AM
    
    My goodness I pray you get answers. Healthcare is sadly no longer the way it should be. Sending you lot’s of love.
    XOXO
Susan Hijazi
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 4:59 AM

Hello beautiful woman, I highly recommend you read Medical Medium and help yourself. I had many of your same complaints and I felt better inside two weeks. Aging is awful it’s true, But it sure beats the alternative.
Susan
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 6:51 AM
  
  BEEN THERE DONE THAT!
  LOVED HIM…………did CELERY JUICE for about a year……………
  DIDNOT CURE MY SYMPTOMS.
  I EVEN TRIED TO GET AN APPOINTMENT WITH HIM!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
Vicky
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 3:30 AM

I’m sorry to hear about your continued health problems. I find as a woman as I’ve aged it’s been harder and harder to get a traditional Dr to take any health symptoms seriously, it’s almost an attitude of what do you expect. A couple of suggestions, I had what I thought was vertigo for at least 18 months. For me it turned out that one of my ear drums was completely blocked full of wax. Interestingly enough before it was cleared I could feel the dizziness emanating from that quadrant of my head. Adrenal fatigue is so common and so ignored. Most of us who have thyroid issues could probably resolve them by getting those adrenals functioning properly. I suggest you look at The Root Protocol as their first line of treatment is getting those Adrenals functioning. Twice a day I take Adrenal Cocktails which is a combo of potassium, sodium and Wholefood C in high doses. Let me tell you it does work. After 13 years on thyroid medication and 6 months of doing the Adrenal Cocktails I decided to stop taking my thyroid meds so I could ascertain whether I needed them. As I needed to have a blood test I had to involve my Dr who of course wrote the test request but was quite clear that my exercise to stop the meds was futile and I would be on them for life. I got those tests back today and my thyroid is now functioning naturally within range without medication. Friend had a similar thyroid recovery. So don’t give up, so many of us have the same battles and the more we talk about it the more we learn.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 4, 2021 at 6:50 AM
  
  THIS IS WONDERFUL NEWS!
  CONGRATULATIONS!!!
  I AM OFF TO LOOK UP THE ROOT PROTOCOL!
  I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU CONCERNING DOCTORS ATTITUDES!
  YES, AGREE THE MORE WE CHIT CHAT THE MORE WE LEARN!!!
  THANK YOU VICKY!!!!
  XXX
  - Vicky
    · Reply
    
    June 4, 2021 at 3:10 PM
    
    Oh I missed a word in my original post. It’s the Root Cause Protocol. We need to refuse to be silenced and shoved in the corner just because we are aging. I never thought that once I reached my 50s I would be sidelined and become invisible to large parts of society.
Parnassus
· Reply

June 4, 2021 at 12:55 AM

Hello Contessa, I am glad to hear that progress is being made concerning your health. It is a continuous battle, so you will always have to be your own best advocate, especially these days when doctors’ main concern is turnover.
–
Your garden is already looking so summery. Your photos are a colorful relief to me–these are gray, rainy days in Taiwan, and we’re not allowed to go outside, anyway!
–Jim
Taste of France
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 11:32 PM

It’s hard to find a good doctor. When my beloved GP moved away, I went to the beloved GP of a good friend. Did not hit it off. I ended up switching, and really like the new one–young, earnest and truly cares. Very thorough.
Dinner for breakfast has long been a good idea for health. In France, they say “Eat like a king at breakfast, a prince at lunch and a pauper at dinner.” In fact, “supper” comes from “souper”–to have soup–and soup is what most of my French friends eat for dinner, except in summer, when they have salad. Why they’re not fat. Anyway, starting the day with dessert, which is what most breakfast foods are, is definitely a bad idea.
What you say about aging is so true. It’s a gradual slope and then boom! Big drop down. Very discouraging.
I really have to get me a caftan. You always look like a princess in them.
Barbara Spain
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 9:43 PM

So sorry to read about your health issues! I hope that your new doctor will be able to direct your care so that you will feel better very soon!
I started to notice changes with what I can realistically do, such as gardening, home keeping, late night partying (ha!) when I turned 65. A recent experience I had was I took a short walk around the neighborhood and then next day my left knee became inflamed! I’ve been icing that knee three times a day for over a week! So weird!
Ah well, on a happier note, I agree, with your advice, to find joy in the everyday things, such as sunshine and adorable puppy antics, along with pulling together a wonderful outfit, even if your the only one home to appreciate it!
Here’s hoping that you will feel better very soon!
Dee Black
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 7:09 PM

Praying for your health to be restored this year. What I love about you is….you share life. Real life in real time, health is real life. Always fascinating and always helpful. Knees…. at 65. I’m 66 now. Those epsom salt baths help a lot. Loved the blog. Best wishes in your further tests, yes keep us posted.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 3, 2021 at 7:22 PM
  
  THANK YOU!
  SEE ITS TOO EARLY FOR ME TO HAVE THE KNEES GO!I JUST KNEW IT!
  LET ME HAVE A LITTLE TANTRUM NOW…………..!!!!
  MY POOR HUSBAND IS NOT READY FOR THIS EITHER HE IS STILL FULL OF ENERGY!
  LOVE EPSOM SALT BATHS…………..THANK YOU!
  XXX
Josephine Floyd
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 6:54 PM

Oh you poor dear. I feel you are now being taken seriously and on the right track to knock your body back in shape after it letting you down far too soon. You have a brilliant attitude , so the way forward is assured.. Thankyou for beng so honest about your trials and tribulations it’s a great help to us all. Positive thoughts from us your friends must project you along the way to recovery, stride onwards and upwards. Much love Jo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 3, 2021 at 7:11 PM
  
  OH JO THIS WILL KEEP ME GOING!
  THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES OVER!
  APPRECIATE IT SO MUCH!
  XXX
Tamera Beardsley
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 6:26 PM

Glad to hear progress has been made regarding your health!

Love your ensemble in your wonderful garden! XOXO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 3, 2021 at 7:10 PM
  
  THANK YOU TAMERA!
  I received my CATHERINE ROBINSON CASHMERE EMAIL TODAY AND WHO IS THE STAR ON THE COVER!!!!
  CONGRATULATIONS!!!
  IT IS AN AWESOME PHOTO!!
  XXX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 5:57 PM

That’ Floozy Betty is adorable. I can’t wait until she’s soooooo tall. She’ll squash the whole garden. I’ve forgotten about vertigo. I’ve had it, my nephew has had it. Friends have had it. I don’t think it has anything to do with food.I worry about supplements. I remember taking some chinese herbs and they started my heart racing. I do not look like you when I garden. A far cry. But you’re all looking fabulous!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 3, 2021 at 7:08 PM
  
  NO The VERTIGO is not my main problem………..THE EPISODES ARE………Losing vision feeling faint then the headache for two days.THAT THEY THINK IS FOOD RELATED.
  VERTIGO is inner EAR.IT is on TOP OF or ADDED TO MY LIST……………
  SO FAR THE PILLS HAVE HELPED MY DIGESTION BIG TIME!
  MY HEART can’t RACE because of the SOTOLOL I was TOLD by the new DOC at KAISER……..
  SO all is GOOD in that department for NOW!!!
  XXX
Michele Ferrari
· Reply

June 3, 2021 at 5:05 PM

Elizabeth- Wow you have been through a LOT with your health but kudos to you for being an advocate for yourself. It can be so frustrating until you find the right doctor and you start getting answers. I am 67 and I think I noticed a flurry of health issues start cropping up as soon as I turned 65 (and got on Medicare – yay)! Luckily things are much better now. I know what you mean about getting up from squatting or kneeling – especially in the garden! ? Health is everything I agree and hope you are feeling much better soon – Michele Ferrari (ps I am even more convinced Banksy, Betty & Theodore need to be the stars of a children’s book) !!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  June 3, 2021 at 7:04 PM
  
  HELLO MICHELE thanks for chiming in!YOU DO NOT LOOK 67 to ME IN YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTO!
  YES, I got the idea for these photos from WHAT YOU SAID over there on INSTAGRAM!
  THAT COULD BE A VERY FUN PROJECT FOR ME AND HEIDI!LOOK FOR HER COMMENT HERE…………
  THE EMOGJI’s do not work here in the comments!WHY?I have NO IDEA……………..so I changed assuming they were HEARTS to EXCLAMATION MARKS!MY computer changes ALL EMOGJI’s to question marks!!!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
cindy
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June 3, 2021 at 3:19 PM

Wow progress at last. Hopefully they will finally get to the bottom of this! You I mean Theodore needs to write a children’s book with his shenanigans with Betty Heidi should do the illustrations! I will buy it!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  June 3, 2021 at 3:46 PM
  
  SOUNDS LIKE A BEST SELLER TO ME!!!!
  - Heidi
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    June 4, 2021 at 6:04 PM
    
    Ok let’s do it!