Hello sweet friends! It seems that the heat has settled upon us to stay a bit. So I am turning my thoughts to other lovely things until it passes. Here’s to Sunday Smiles Just Like The French.
A French Country Home
This pretty home in Normandy feels so cozy, so comfortable and so FRENCH!
The Best Day Trips From France
This article is spot on! I’ve been to Monet’s house and Versailles. The Mont Saint Michel monastery is still on my bucket list.
French Ephemera
A easy to follow tutorial (with lovely printables) on how to make paper look old.
Cooking/Eating Goals
Here are 20 classic French dishes everyone needs to try. I’ve had 18 and all were amazing!
Hidden History
I’ve been to Versailles twice and still have not seen everything. Next time, I will try a bike.
Sunday Smiles Just Like The French
Sweet friends, I have debated long and hard whether or not to share something with you. I know for many of you DTA is a lovely escape away from the world.
However, for health reasons, just like the French, I am taking the month of August off from creating original content. I may pop in with Sunday Smiles. But I may not.
Many readers are such lovely, treasured and longtime friends that I know the above comment might concern you. If so, keep reading.
For the past four years I have lived with daily, constant pain in my joints and muscles.
Trips to the doctors resulted in being told variations of You’re getting old or It’s all in your head.
I come from a time and place that you didn’t question people in authority.
But I have since learned that in today’s world you have to advocate for yourself.
So I did a little research and DEMANDED that certain tests be run as part of my yearly physical/lab work.
Several came back with high inflammation markers so I was sent to a rheumatologist.
Long story short I have been diagnosed with Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus). Lupus is an autoimmune disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. So not fun!
When I went to the rheumatologist they basically came in to the exam room and said, “You have Lupus. I’m putting you on Methotrexate.” Then left the room.
Trying to pull my bewildered self together I staggered out in shock and said, “Is there at least a brochure that you can give me?”
I then spent a sleepless night with Google.
And got REALLY MAD.
Methotrexate was first used as a chemotherapy drug. It’s an important option.
But where was the discussion of the holistic approach:
- Don’t eat certain foods that are inflammation triggering. (Goodbye by beloved tomato, potato and more.)
- Limit stress
- Exercise
- Get 8 hours of sleep
- Avoid the sun
Now it’s probably no secret that I run on stress. I work 10-12 hours a day, often seven days a week.
That leaves no time for exercise save for walking the dog. Which I do without a hat, sunscreen…etc.
I’m guilty of missing meals and then being SO HUNGRY I shove any quick, processed food in my face.
So I fired the first rheumatologist and found another with a better bedside manner.
I then signed up for yoga classes and went to my first Pilates class.
A Lupus cookbook was found at the library.
I bought a pretty parasol.
That leaves how to limit stress.
So I am taking the month off to reset and learn how to do this.
First and foremost whenever family and friends text/email me with a “Hey can you do ________ for me?” In the past it has always been YES! Even if I had 20 other things going on. Because I am people pleaser.
But now, at least through August, the response will be this:
I’ve prepared myself that some “friends” and perhaps even family might stop calling or unfollow. I’m ok with that.
I will still get on Instagram and Facebook from time to time because that is easy.
My hope is to come back with fun original content including a lovely fall home tour in September.
Laura
In Case You Missed It
Boxwood Floral Crown and Tablescape
My dear friend I am saddened to hear that you must face the challenges ahead. I have known individuals with Lupus to find relief from symptoms with holistic therapies . I am confident you will find the right balance of medications and therapies. Take care of yourself and remember there is a community of support sending prayers. Blessings as you find a new normal and improved health.
Laura, I’m so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I know it was hard to take but good to know why you were having pain. I have a friend at church who was diagnosed with Lupus several years ago. As far as I can tell, she must have it under control because she looks great. Is there a support group? It’s always so helpful to talk to others who have experienced what is new to you. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
I was on Methotrexate for a number of years due to RA. I took it upon myself to wean myself off of it by changing my diet and have not had any setbacks. Good for you for using a holistic approach first. The drugs will be there if you need them. Sending you positive energy. You’ve got this!
I am sending Love and Prayers for you, dear Laura, now and always. You are a beautiful Light and Soul in this world and you deserve everything Good.
May your time off produce the best results for you and your family. God bless you, and Love, Love, Love!
Oh dear Laura, so sorry about the diagnosis of lupus.
I have been there. Because I was only 19 I was told we have known you since you were young. You’re a worrier and have an overactive imagination
People don’t ge5 numb for no reason
Pilates is an amazing workout and is my daily physical therapy.
Sending prayers and hugs.
Enjoy!
Dear Laura, I follow you on IG and blog although I don’t comment often. I just want to say you will be in my thoughts and prayers and I know you will come back after August strong and determined and have a plan in motion. Take care and know you will be missed while you are away………hugs.
So Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Take time off and put you first! Praying you find ways to ease symptoms and feel much better soon.
Laura, I have just sent you a text because I did not read your post. So please ignore, obvi.
This diagnosis is surely scary, and I know you will be researching up the ying Yang. Excuse my 70s slang. You’ve got this SIL/kindred spirit. You have so many people who love you and your family. Lean on them. Including us❤️
Good healing! I’m glad you found out you have Lupus. Things are fixable, but you have to know. Warm healing thoughts to you and your family. Hugs, Kara
Dear Laura, so very sorry to hear of your diagnosis, but glad you finally have one! Knowledge is power and I know you will be a good advocate for yourself and learn everything you can about Lupus. Here’s hoping you can find some good alternative therapies. My prayers will be with you daily and I know with your positive attitude you will do well! Big Hug across the miles…….carol
Laura. I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis but so pleased you are your own best advocate. Relax and enjoy these days of summer. Best wishes. Mary in Peoria.
Hi, Laura — I’m sorry to hear this news — and so glad that you are a self-advocate and a “digger” and responding proactively and fast (and well done, firing rheumotologist number one!) You can do this and you ARE! Doing all the right things is the first big step. Do you really think you’ll lose people? Not those of us who love you and care about you — we’ll patiently wait as long as it takes for you to write or keep in touch and will not waver in our support for you! Prayers? Of course. But with this focus you’ve share, you will conquer.
“
Much love, prayers, and safe journey.
*hugs*
~Kelley
Will be praying for you, Laura. Take all the time you need. Your followers will be there for you. Thank you for sharing this news with us. It reminds us that we have to advocate for ourselves. Meanwhile, I am going to reread all your blog posts. Take care of yourself. Will be thinking of you!
Take all the time you need, Laura, we will all still be here. A friend from college has had lupus as long as I can remember and it’s a game of balance. You got this!!!!
Laura, I am sorry to read this news. I think you have the right attitude, you must think about yourself first! Take some time to process this and find the things that work for you. Yoga is a great place to start!
Take care.
Elizabeth
I am so sorry to hear your diagnosis. You are right to take time off to take care of yourself and to look for holistic ways to treat this disease. I send you love and prayers .
Laura I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis and being one who has come through Pancreatic cancer, I fully understand your concerns with doctors, treatments and all the “stuff” that goes with. I have been in so many hospitals, (as well as ambulances. and emergency rooms)..to know how some can be so caring and a few others kinda rough. You are wise to take time off and regroup. The same with second opinions. Don’t take no for an answer when it comes to questioning your health. I will be praying for you and your family because your illness will affect them all. D on’t give up, and hang in there. More people care than you know. I care.
Hugs
Kari
Laura,
You have made a great decision for yourself! Take care of yourself. I am so sorry for the news you have received. You will be in my thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery!
Teri
I’m so sorry to hear of your lupus diagnosis. But I’m glad you have a diagnosis. My doctor also tends to brush everything off as due to age (or weight in my case. As if skinny young people don’t have health issues). Good for you for pushing for testing and finding a better rheumatologist.
Take all the time you need, friend, and find what works best for you. I hope to see you back here or IG as you’re able, but your health and family come first.