Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Thank You

I begin this post with a great big


In my last post, I didn't want to complain and write about my health issues, but I did want people to understand why I wasn't dropping by to visit, posting anything new on my blog or answering emails.


What I did not expect was the outpouring of loving thoughts and prayers OR the great suggestions on what might be wrong with me.


I heeded your suggestions and told my doctor to look at my symptoms from a different perspective - and we got to the bottom of the problem - severe anemia.


By listening to my blog friends, especially Kris of Junk Chic Cottage, I received a blood transfusion, am taking iron pills and slowly (very slowly) returning to normal.


For this hyperactive lady, resting is very difficult, but I managed to find things to do.


I finished my mantel for Halloween


and changed the entry way display to fall.


I printed out some embroidery patterns


traced one onto fabric to make a little napkin.


I really like how the napkin turned out, but I know it will get stained by use, so I think I will do the next embroidery project on pillowcases.


I haven't found a home for the cute little banner Connie of Crafty Home Cottage 


made me, but at least you can see how cute it is.


I created a picture each day to post on Instagram.


And then I shopped - don't you just love that today we can shop any time of day right in the comfort of our living room while wearing pj's?


I absolutely LOVE all things Maileg and have wanted a Christmas elf for ages.


I found this one on Amazon for half the usual price and grabbed it.


I did not expect him to be so BIG - I think he might sit on this chair all through the holiday season.


Last Christmas I missed out on the great deals at H & M on Christmas decor because I discovered the website too late, but I have been stalking it weekly.


I am expecting the pillow and 2 sets of the napkins to arrive today.


I found this Etsy shop on Instagram and ordered a Christmas towel and one other towel that


 I can't show because it is a Christmas gift.


 I set up an assembly line on the dining room table and made some treats for my volleyball team.


I won't be able to coach the game this week, but I am sending them my love in the form of Halloween candy boxes.


I am feeling so much better today and I have 2 big motivations to reach 100%.


Three weeks from tomorrow, we are headed to Fort Bragg for a kayaking adventure


with my family to celebrate my Aunt Kay's 90th birthday - she looks fantastic here at 89.


I also have to get ready for ski season (assuming there will be snow) because Steve and I just purchased our season passes for June Mountain.


And now, I am headed to the garden to rest because I am exhausted - I know by my next post I will be at 100%.

75 comments:

  1. Oh sweet friend! I am so glad you found out what was wrong so that you could get straightened out. You are so active and busy that I know it's hard to slow down...you are even busy in your down time! Thanks for some of the links to the fun things you've found lately. Take care of yourself...take it easy!!! Sweet hugs, Diane

    ReplyDelete
  2. I'm so glad to hear you are feeling better!!

    Big hugs ~

    ReplyDelete
  3. Carol, It is so nice that we have our own nurse Kris . I like this blogging world..we get important help from our family members. So glad you are on your way to being brand new. Love all your photos too. Blessings, xoxo,Susie

    ReplyDelete
  4. Girl you must be really anemic if you needed a blood transfusion! No wonder you didn't feel good. I hope every day gets better and better. Eat some good food that will build those red blood cells. :)

    ReplyDelete
  5. Carol, for a girl that is suppose to be resting, you sure are doing a lot of things. I know, it's hard to rest when you have a soul at wants to be doing, doing, doing and going, going going, LOL.
    Okay, is that your Aunt Kay in the kayak? How old was she in that photo and does she still kayak? Here I am 69 and afraid that if I get in one, I would never be able to get out again:) I want some of her genes.
    I'm happy that you like the banner. The colors look great with your things. Thanks for the shout out :)
    Wishing you the best of health,
    Your blogging sister,
    Connie :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I'm happy to know you are starting to feel much better and have found out what's wrong with your health. I love the Christmas decor you found on line. The red looks so Scandinavian and is perfect for your decor. The weather is calling for an early snowfall for us here on Sunday. It won't last but will be fun to see. We don't want permanent snow for many weeks yet! Take care and get your rest.

    ReplyDelete
  7. So glad you know what's wrong and are on the mend now. Take care of yourself. I am amazed at all you are doing while resting, but I know you love to make little changes. Your mantle looks great.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I adore your blog and your beautiful pictures. Your Aunt looks amazing. I was so worried when you said you weren't feeling well and have been thinking and praying for you. I am glad the doctor is helping you feel better. Hope each day you get stronger
    deezie

    ReplyDelete
  9. It's great that you're getting better. Your new stuff looks wonderful, but I am drooling over your patio floor of rocks.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I am so excited for you, Carol! I just love a smart nurse like Kris (my sister is my go-to RN, and my youngest daughter is 4 yrs out of school as the same). My mother suffered from severe anemia (lack of normal red blood cell production), and I tracked her medical history with those hemoglobin counts. I just am so happy your physician is working well with you.

    Your project list sounds pretty tiring to me, and if that's your slowed-down version, look out world!
    Best wishes for continued strength and energy.
    Rita

    ReplyDelete
  11. I am so glad they found out what is happening with your health! I think the worst thing is just not "knowing". Once you know what's wrong and get over the "scare" you can start working on getting well. God bless you, Carol, as you fight your way back to 100%. Gotta love that Kris, don't ya?!!! xo Diana

    ReplyDelete
  12. Glad that you've discovered the source of your illness. It isn't fun not knowing how to resolve your health problems, I can certainly relate. Really like your sweet elf!

    ReplyDelete
  13. So glad you are feeling better and have found out what was wrong. Love all your current buys! The Elf is adorable!
    hugs,
    Linda

    ReplyDelete
  14. So glad you are feeling better and have found out what was wrong. Love all your current buys! The Elf is adorable!
    hugs,
    Linda

    ReplyDelete
  15. I am so glad your Doctor found out what was wrong and taken the right actions to help you.

    ReplyDelete
  16. I'm so sorry to hear that you've been so sick! My mom has suffered from bad anemia before and had to see a hematologist. I hope they know the underlying cause for your anemia so it doesn't return. Glad that you're feeling better now. I love the elf you bought for Christmas this year!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Oh I'm so happy to hear that you're feeling better and that you found out exactly what was wrong. Try not to do too much too soon and save your energy for the fun trip coming up. Thanks so much for sharing with us. By the way, I love the upside down picture of the pumpkins...a different perspective indeed:-)

    ReplyDelete
  18. What an awesome support group we have in bloggers. I'm so happy for you, what a relief to finally have a game plan that WORKS.

    Love your funny elf! and all the photos are beautiful.

    xoxoxox

    ReplyDelete
  19. I am so happy to hear that you are feeling better and on your way back to normal. Anemia is no fun. I have had mild anemia off and on my whole life. Never had to have transfusions though. I love all the photos you shared. Your home always makes me smile. It is the poster child for a happy place! Have a lovely Thursday...:) Oh...I just put up my ornament exchange post. I hope you'll participate again!

    Blessings, Vicky

    ReplyDelete
  20. Carol,
    I am smiling for you Carol, you are beloved and appreciated and was very much missed. So happy you are on your way back to total health and strength. Thanks, Kris for helping Carol out with advice that was taken and it worked!
    Your elf is too cute, yup those magical guys are big - loving all your early merriment shopping. Looks like the joy of creativity is back pulsing through you! Happy to see a new post you were missed mon amie!
    xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  21. Damn, woman! You get more done when yoryou're at 20% tan I do at 95%! That elf is wonderful. I might have to get some of those napkins!

    ReplyDelete
  22. Glad to know that you're feeling better. Not knowing what's wrong with you makes everything 10 times worse. I'll have to check out the H&M site and that pillow is cute!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Oh Carol,
    So happy to hear how much better you are feeling. I hope they find the source soon. Just glad everything is going in a better direction. Love your Maileg. I know you have wanted one and to find one for half price SCORE!!!!! I know how much fun it is just to sit in your jammies and shop on the computer. Woooo Hooo! Happy Day Girlfriend. So happy you are doing better.
    Kris

    ReplyDelete
  24. PS:
    I have to agree with Karen. You get more done in the 20% mode then most of us do at 100%!!!!!
    Kris

    ReplyDelete
  25. I am so glad to hear you got to the bottom of the problem! Carry on...you seem to have not missed a beat although you are doing the right thing and staying put. Yay!

    I want to look like Aunt Kay. Now.

    Jane xxx

    ReplyDelete
  26. Carol, I've missed so many blog posts while family was visiting, so this is the first I've read of your ailment. I'm so glad you're feeling better and I wish you a speedy recovery so you can enjoy your trip and ski season, too!!

    I see retail therapy is working wonders. :o)

    Take care,
    Vickie

    ReplyDelete
  27. I'm so glad your doctors found out what was wrong. And I'm sure you are, too. Now that you know, getting better will be a piece of cake. Kayaking at Ft. Bragg....nice! I'm thinking about running a half-marathon there in March.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Yay! So glad to hear you're on the mend!

    ReplyDelete
  29. I second (and third) what has already been said. Not knowing can weigh heavy on your heart. We can sometimes have the tendency to think the worst, but while severe anemia is no joke, it's fixable and you're going to be 100% soon which is wonderful!

    Your Aunt is a hottie! Can't believe she's 90!!!

    ReplyDelete
  30. I know exactly what you mean! I suffer from severe anemia too!
    Glad you're able to get treatment...rest and get better and better!
    I love all your little decorative touches in you home...and that banner is just adorable!
    Congrats on SF winning the Series!
    Game 7 was Awesome! I just love watching baseball... no matter who wins or loses.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I am so glad that you were finally diagnosed and received proper treatment. Even better news that you're on the mend! Please take care of yourself and don't do too much. I know how hard it is to rest, but you have to do it in order for your body to heal! Keeping you in my prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Carol,
    I am also happy to hear that your doctor found the problem and that you are on the road to getting better. Rest, relax and soak up that wonderful sunshine.

    Judith

    ReplyDelete
  33. Carol, I am so happy to read that you/doc/Kris got to the bottom of your health issue and you are feeling some better. There is nothing like feeling poorly and not knowing why! Thanks for sharing your shopping buys, I may just have to check out a new place or two! June Mountain is close to my second home. Yes, SoCal is my love but I lived in Bridgeport for 15 years, that is where I met and married my husband. I sure do hope they get more snow this year, not much last year and they have had a horribly hot, dry and fire rich summer :( Here's to Good Health! Blessings, Cindy

    ReplyDelete
  34. So glad you have an answer and that you're getting back up to speed. I've been missing your posts, but this one was packed with pretty pics and great info. Try to enjoy the rest of your recuperation!

    ReplyDelete
  35. oh Carol, so glad that you found out what is wrong. Being anemic can really knock you down. I have suffered with that for years. It is important for you to take your iron.
    I know it's hard for you to rest as you are a very active person, but please take care.
    Sending prayers your way for a speedy recovery now that the Dr knows what's going on.
    Have a great weekend - hear that we may get rain woo hoo.
    Mary

    ReplyDelete
  36. Well, you've been very busy for someone who is tired. I love the embroidered napkin. I hope you'll feel full of energy soon.

    ReplyDelete
  37. So glad the mystery is solved and you can recuperate now! I do recall having anemia in my second pregnancy for awhile and there's just no energy whatsoever...

    Looks and sounds as if you are on the mend ...so much going on : )

    ReplyDelete
  38. Very glad to hear you have an answer and are now on the road to recovery. Whatever the underlying cause, prayers that all will now be well with you. Lovely to visit as always.

    ReplyDelete
  39. My dear friend, you know how it is to be a teacher...meetings, planning and such, and I had two big meetings this week that kept me from visiting blogs. I am so relieved to hear that you got to the bottom of this. THANK GOD is all I can say to express the fact that this is treatable. I had no idea however, that a blood transfusion would be necessary, but your levels were probably so low...but you are fixed now, and that is all that matters.

    You go, go, go like no one I know. Please stop and rest, regain your strength.

    SO HAPPY to see you back. I missed you so. Anita

    ReplyDelete
  40. danke für die super bilder und inspirationen, alles liebe und einen schönen donnerstag wünscht angie aus deutschland

    ReplyDelete
  41. So sorry to hear you have been struggling with health issues but glad that you have discovered the cause. You certainly have gotten a lot done while exhausted! All the Christmas items are just adorable!

    Looks like you will be very busy, very soon. The skiing sounds wonderful, I miss it but will go snowshoeing instead.

    ReplyDelete
  42. I’m so glad you and your doctor found out what was going on and very happy to hear you're feeling a little better. Anaemia is no joke and can certainly make you feel very under the weather. You have some lovely things to look forward to now, so make sure to rest and get really well.
    I love all the pictures you’ve shared today. Everything is just so pretty.
    xx

    ReplyDelete
  43. Hi, Carol! I had anemia in 5th grade. As if 5th grade wasn't hard enough! Glad you're on the road to recovery.

    Sorry I haven't been by. My FB page has really grown and has kept me very busy!

    I enjoy your designs and photos very much. Thanks for posting! ♥

    ReplyDelete
  44. Carol, So thankful and happy to hear that you are on the mend and were able to find out what was wrong.

    As usual your photos and decorations are charming and showcase your flair for primary colors. The little napkin is adorable.

    Take care and continue to heal.

    Blessings,
    Erin

    ReplyDelete
  45. So happy you are on the mend and planning some exciting trips. I love the elf you found, he is so cute. Prayers of thanks that you are on the mend and for continued healing.
    Debbie

    ReplyDelete
  46. I'm so glad your doctor and you got to the real issue of your health. Love the "new perspective" photo.
    I'd say that you stayed pretty busy even while you're resting - the embroidery is so pretty.
    Take care. You'll be at 100% soon.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Your post is filled with so much good news, great pics, and fun things! :-D That's awesome that you were able to find the problem and solution to how you were feeling! Here's to feeling 100% very soon! Great decorations and I LOVE your new elf! It's SO cute! How exciting about your upcoming kayaking trip and season passes to June. Awesome! :-D

    ReplyDelete
  48. Sending you hugs friend......I am SO HAPPY TO HEAR THAT YOU ARE FEELING BETTER!!! There is nothing worse than being sick...I am not 100 percent yet but like you feel that it is just around the corner. You take care of yourself and keep resting.....Thinking of you!!! Nicole xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  49. Hi Carol, So glad you got to the bottom of why you didn't feel good and your doctor can help you. You will be feeling better real soon and enjoying the season and your Aunt's Birthday. Blessings to her for a wonderful year!!
    Love your pics and decorating.
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
  50. I'm so happy to hear you are feeling better! Being sick is the worst...trust me I now after last year. Great new pics and great decorations. Play in your house but also rest so you can play some more!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Carol, so glad that you're feeling better...what a scare! You've still managed to get so much done! Love your elf!!
    Susan

    ReplyDelete
  52. I am home after a lovely day in the classrooms. Those kids are jewels, and I adore them.

    I am so thrilled to know you are on your way to recovery. Creativity, HERE YOU COME!!!!!

    Dear, dear Carol, I just read your comment on my post and it means to world to me that anyone would say I am good with words. It is one of the highest compliments I could receive. Thank you dear heart.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Hi Carol,
    So glad your doctors are listening to you, and you're on the mend! It doesn't look or sound like you've been taking it as easy as you probably should...but your motivations to get 100% well look fabulous.
    Mary Alice

    ReplyDelete
  54. I am delighted that you got to the bottom of it and you are on your way back. Go slow and listen to your body!

    ReplyDelete
  55. I loved your pillow cover you found at H&M so I went over and found some I loved at great prices. The red covers make me smile. I can't wait until I get them. Thanks for sharing!

    Linda

    ReplyDelete
  56. Carol...so glad that you are feeling better. Not feeling good is not any fun at all. 13 years ago...I had severe anemia caused by severe bleeding and ended up having a total hysterectomy.
    ~Cindy

    ReplyDelete
  57. I'm so happy that you are getting better Carol! Your trips ahead sound fun. I'm traveling to LA again the week of November 9th and staying at the Ayres Hotel again! So excited about going to your neck of the woods again!

    ReplyDelete
  58. She little elves. I hope you are the road to mending. xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  59. I am so glad that you are feeling better and hope you reach 100% soon. Even feeling poorly you have managed to do more than most people do, and you did it with flair as always! I will continue to send you prayers and positive vibes.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Carol, I am just thrilled to hear that you have a diagnosis now and are clearly on the mend. I can see that you are already back to business and creating with passion! I wish you well and a super speedy recovery! Take it easy~ if possible~ just for a bit and I bet you'll be 100% in a jiffy! :)

    ReplyDelete
  61. So happy to hear that you are doing better, getting some of that creative energy back, and looking forward to many new and exciting activities! Your Christmas purchases are TOO cute!!

    Happy weekend, Carol!

    Poppy

    ReplyDelete
  62. I have been checking back often to see how you are. I am so glad you found out what the problems was and got treatment. Hope you are feeling better and better every day. Love the pictures. The elf is adorable.

    I have been crocheting and knitting. We finally have beautiful fall colors to enjoy. Last night was cold.

    Hope you are feeling great in time for skiing.

    ReplyDelete
  63. So happy you found a solution and that you're feeling better! When we have good health, it is such a blessing. I love your Christmas shopping items! You are so creative ~ I'm sure your volleyball team loved their gifts.

    Rest and take care of yourself!
    xo
    Pat

    ReplyDelete
  64. Carol, so glad you are on the road to recovery. Sorry I've been absent myself. Love, love, love your mantel and the new Christmas elf. Adorable!
    Your aunt looks amazing. I can't believe she will be 90. You have good genes! Have a safe and fun trip to celebrate.

    ReplyDelete
  65. So sorry to hear you were sick Carol - and how amazing that Kris was able to help all the way from Chicago - what a wonderful place Bloglandia is !!!
    I can't believe your Aunt - holy cow - she looks absolutely amazing - 89 years old - really - I just can't believe it!
    Love your photos as always - especially those white linen shots you did for instagram - you should be working for a magazine -
    Take care of you !
    Hugs from here
    To there........
    xoxo too

    ReplyDelete
  66. I've been crazy busy with company visiting so I read this post before seeing your last post! I am so happy you found the answer to your health concerns and that it is something that is not more serious. It IS serious enough though that you do need to follow doctor's orders! Rest, recuperate and enjoy some time just being still my friend.
    Love all your pretty photos :)
    Blessings,
    Patti

    ReplyDelete
  67. So happy they found out what was wrong and are fixing it! Hopefully very soon you will be back at 100% Take care. Mimi

    ReplyDelete
  68. Good Afternoon Carol, I am so sorry I have not been visiting just lately, but unfortunatley George's mother is unwell, so we have been caring for her.
    On my return, I was sorry to hear about your health problems, but pleased to hear, with the right medication, you are feeling a little better.
    When you said you were slowing down, I did not expect to see that you had achieved so much. You achieve more than I do, even when you are unwell.
    Remember to take time to put your feet up.... don't exhaust yourself too much.
    Your aunt is amazing.... 89 years of age... she looks fabulous.
    Take care of yourself, with warmest wishes.
    Daphne

    ReplyDelete
  69. I'm very happy you're feeling better, Carol. You have so many blogging buddies that care about you. Awesome! Your cottage is going to look super cute for Christmas. I love everything you shared. Looking at that photo of your aunt at 89, I can see you come from great stock. Be good to yourself. Hugs, Nancy

    ReplyDelete
  70. Carol, I am so happy you are feeling better and the doctors know what your problem is. I have been praying for you every day since I heard you were not feeling well. I love, love, the chair in the entry with the pumpkins and linens! And your elf is adorable! Continue to take it easy and you'll be 100% before you know it. I have really enjoyed your post.

    Blessings,
    Sandi

    ReplyDelete
  71. DEAREST CAROL!

    First of all, I hope you are feeling better? Are all the prescribed vitamins/treatments making a difference? I thank you so much for coming to visit, and I bet you are probably not feeling up to par, but your friendship is evident in your kind words. THANK YOU.

    I just read about Adam Steltzner! I have learned many things in my 12 years of teaching, but one of the most important things I've learned is to never, ever UNDERESTIMATE anyone...neither student nor teacher. What a strike of grace on his life to be given that chance to look up and SEE something and WONDER. See? It all starts with that curiosity!

    May you come back to 100% YOU! Anita

    ReplyDelete
  72. I am catching up with some of your posts and was sorry to read you'd been ill but delighted that the issue has been identified and that you're on the mend, Carol!

    Karen

    ReplyDelete
  73. Whew! I am so glad to find out you're "fixable"! PTL! I was worried there for a bit and then of course I'm like you all the time...I get tired and take "breaks" then get up and do a little more but I'm like a slug and I never was before my illnesses...I was a "go getter" but not any more. SO happy you're feeling better! YAY!!!!
    I love Maileg but didn't know there was a name just that they were like Nordic Elves. Yours is fantastic. I'll have to check out H&M.
    Your Aunt at 89? I think the West Coast is kinder to people as they age! LOL! The midwest...not so much! Ha! Ha! Of course, we need to keep some weight on in order to stay warm throughout the cold harsh winters. I heard from a clothing retailer that they call us the "fatbelt"....all the largest sizes come to the midwest. True! LOL! Enjoy your kayaking and skiing and all those wonderful activities!

    ReplyDelete
  74. I'm so sorry that I wasn't here for so long or I would have realised how serious you were/are. Anaemia can be so debilitating. A woman at work has it mildly but it's clearly evident because she has less energy than the three of us that are 8, 13 and 17 years older than her. I hope that now it's been treated properly that you're getting better and how wonderful that fellow bloggers managed to help you out.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Glad the Doc was able to come up with a diagnoisis.
    I love the picture of the flowers in watering can under the window with the wire baskets.
    And your aunt Kay Looks great for 89!
    I would love to rest on that lounger in your garden. Looks so peaceful.

    ReplyDelete