Tuesday, February 25, 2014

THE TRUTH BEHIND BLONDIE'S JOURNAL


I never got around to making this "pie" yet, well not in time for Valentine's Day.  But I have all the ingredients and I will soon.  I re~posted the picture because I wanted to share some matters of the heart.  Literally.  But without sounding like a drama queen.  I mentioned I had to have some tests yesterday and I did, for my heart.  When I saw my doctor last, I was told my asthma was as in control as she has ever seen.  So I asked her why I was out of breath all the time, after simple things like making the beds or carrying laundry downstairs?  She got a little worried and did an EKG on me right in her office.  She told me, pretty grim faced, that it looked like I wasn't getting a whole lot of oxygen to my heart.  So, I had an ultrasound of the heart and a stress test yesterday.  And now I wait for the results.  I didn't share that in my last post because for one, I thought it would be something I could be relieved about once I had the stress test and then I could pass that on.  I didn't realize it had to be read and sent to my doctor.  So I didn't post for a week.  And secondly, I always seem to have some gripe; my asthma, my back, a cold...and although I receive the sweetest get well wishes from all of you,  I'm feeling like there is just a whole lot of negativity in my posts.

So, that said, I will get my results and I will share them with you.  That's how I roll, I'm pretty open.   This is life.  And I feel very positive if you want to know.  Yesterday when I walked out of the hospital it was in the low twenties and the wind was whipping.  I had to park about 4 blocks away and as I walking, I had a strange feeling, like I could just keep walking, that the cold, windy fresh air was taking all of my fear and anxiety with it.  I felt really strong, the tension draining with each step.  And last night I slept really well. :)









The not so great news is that she has to have surgery on a wisdom tooth coming in.  The nerve is in such a position that it can't just be pulled straight out, she risks possible paralysis in the jaw.  She has to have a CT scan this week and then the surgery will be scheduled.  As my mother used to say, "We're going to hell in a handbag" here.



On a light note (ha!), when the books came in the mail yesterday, The Husband and Abby were lying on our bed looking at one together.  They were doing a lot of laughing and snickering, making fun of my corny post titles and anything else they could.  Abby said, "Mom, half of this is so far from the truth!"  I asked her what she meant, as I've always made it a sacred point to be exact and honest in my writing.  She said, "Well, you call this place a 'wonderful restaurant', and we all know you hate it.  And here you are writing about my 21st birthday with a  picture of me that was taken in 2009!"  Well, I felt a little embarrassed but it was not like I was telling blatant lies!  "I'm going to start a blog called The Truth Behind Blondie's Journal."  Abby proclaimed...just before I hit her over the head with my book. 

  
Now to share some fun stuff.  I found this scarf organizer in a very nifty catalog called Solutions.  There are 18 openings for your scarves to keep them all in one place.  These are both Abby's and mine.  We wear a lot of solids, and scarves can really make an outfit look different, just by switching them out.  And it hangs in the closet.  Neat and simple.  I sort of like holding the whole hanger up in front of myself to see which scarf pops against what I'm wearing.  I think this was $9.99.  And also, it sure beats having them neatly folded and stacked in a drawer only to have them all get messed up when you pull the bottom one out! Ha!


I may have mentioned Renee's Garden seeds before.  It's my go to place for flower and veggie seeds.  I just received my vegetable seeds (did I tell you my vegetable garden here in the city is having a Grand Re~Opening this summer?  Yep, after 12 years, I'm pulling the old rototiller out!  More on that later).  Renee has the prettiest website and I would be lying if I didn't say the beautiful illustrations on the packets draws me in every time.





1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 t. dark brown sugar
1 T. chopped garlic
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper
3/4 cup olive oil

Combine all ingredients in jar.  Shake well. Refrigerate when not using.
**Note:  The oil will solidify in the refrigerator.  Just take it out and let it come to room temp for about 15 minutes before using.

I use this for a of of things.  Tonight I am marinating  chicken in it to make shish kabobs.  Mix this with a little honey and you have a wonderful glaze for chicken and pork.  Spinach salads scream for this dressing.  Just have fun!

I'm off now.  I will be back sooner than I have been in awhile.  My goal is always to post at least twice per week and I didn't really skim the surface of everything I wanted to talk about in this post.  I hope all of you are having a great week! :)

XO,
Jane

61 comments:

Sunflowers With Smiles said...

I hope you feel better soon. The balsamic vihara sounds great too! I bet you can't wait to get outside to plant your seeds too!

Simply LKJ said...

Praying for you. Here's to good results from your tests!!! I stepped outside the other day and could not believe that our day lilies are starting to sprout, the dogwoods and cherry trees are blooming, and the daffodils are out in the entrance to our neighborhood! Spring will be here before we know it. At least I hope so!!

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Hi Jane,
I'm so glad that the doctor ordered tests to see if you are alright. I'm betting that you are going to be fine!
I've always loved reading your blog. You definitely have the gift to tell it like it is. Tell your daughter and the Husband that you have earned your poetic license when writing your blog. Sometimes we gotta jazz it up a bit to keep everyone interested.
I wish that I loved to cook the way you do, but it's not my thing and I think my family is glad for that. Mr. Sissie does most of the cooking these days.
Spring is coming soon and you will be out in your garden in no time. Keep writing your wonderful journal and know that we are all waiting for the next chapter.

hugs
Sissie

Cathy @ My 1929 Charmer said...

Oh my, I am saddened to hear you haven't been feeling well and hope you test results come out OK. I am recovering from the worse year of my life (medical issues) and it's been and still is a long journey. so my prayers are with you. I love the idea of having your blog in a book and have never heard of it, pretty cool. Balsamic vinegar is one of my favorites, but just learned I am allergic to yeast - ugh! Ive wanted to order some seeds so I will look at the one you mentioned. I also order seeds from a source in IL,Underwood Gardens, run buy a women who is confined to a wheelchair (www.underwoodgardens.com. My garden is mostly partial shade and so miss a veggie garden. Maybe when you get too many veggies you'll send some my way.

SImple and Serene Living said...

I am praying for good results for your test results. Not seeing anything blooming here yet. Some light snow expected tonight. So ready for spring. xo Laura

April said...

Praying you get good results from the doctor...KEEP THE FAITH! :))

Julie Marie said...

Good luck with your test results Jane... love that you left with a positive attitude!... sorry about Abbey's tooth, hope all goes well... and Milo will be just fine... ten is still a young dog!... and he's just so darn cute!... happy to hear you are going to plant a veggie garden this year... nothing better than growing your own!... I have all of my blog but the last year and a half made into books... I used Cutest Blog on the Block but will check out your new spot... love seeing all of your pretty seed packets too!... xoxo Julie Marie

Vel Criste said...

I hope it's not gonna be anything serious Jane, sometimes infections, especially viral can do that to you, but then again, that's why your doc ordered more tests. Anyway, I'm hoping for the best for you!

I thought about doing a blog book and glad you discussed it here, I started the blog to share with friends and family but now has blossomed to sharing with more wonderful friends in the blogosphere! I do want my sons to know that their momma was just more than what they know me and I know they will get to read my blog someday, I hope it reflects somewhat who I am and what I find beautiful!

Congrats on having a smart daughter, that was so humble of her not to tell, but it is an achievement worth celebrating about! CHEERS!

Vicki @ lifeinmyemptynest said...

Best wishes for good test results - it's better to know and be as healthy as possible! I love how your walk to your car took away your stress - walking, even in the cold, is the best :-)

Lynn said...

Gorgeous seed packs Jane, I'm sooooo ready for spring... as the snow flakes fly... I hope all is well, take care of yourself:@)

Unknown said...

We will be praying for you and hope that you are okay. I'm glad you will let us know. Jane, you pack alot in one post!! Dogs, cooking, journal, your health. I love it and what a wonderful idea to bind your posts. Thanks again for stopping by my blog and I hope you get spring flowers soon!!

Cynthia
accomplishedwoman.blogspot.com

Something Nice and Pretty said...

I always love your posts so don't go changing them. I'll be praying for you and wanting spring just as much as you do.

Sarah said...

Jane, praying that all test results are positive info and that you can move on. I've wanted to get my blog published into a book, but haven't done that yet. Which format do you like the best? My thought was to keep the same format as my blog. Also thinking that I might not want all the links at the end. Does one have options on things like that?
Thanks for sharing the tips. Love the seed packets.

Debra@CommonGround said...

you're smart to get the tests done, take it from a "been there, done that" knowing what's going on is the best deterrent for heart problems. If you could walk 4 blocks to your car, you're probably doing great! Stay on that low-carb plan,(and low fat) that's a great step in the right direction. xoxo

Betsy Brock said...

Well, I hope your test results are clear what the problem is so they all know what to do to make you better! And I love how you didn't worry and felt good leaving after the tests. Worry never did anyone a bit of good anyway! And it certainly isn't the kind of stress your heart needs anyway, right? Will look forward to the next report.

That salad dressing looks yummy...so does the pie! ha.

Seeds! Better not think on that. Can't afford spring fever just yet! lol...

Mary said...

Hi dear Jane, you were in my thoughts yesterday and I'm so happy you posted today and filled us in on your tests. Sounds like you are going to be fine - especially walking that far in the cold wind - and having the strength to hit Ms. Abby over the head with years worth of Blondie's Journals, LOL!!!!

Your books sound great - I should have started doing that years ago (my 7th blogging year is imminent!), bit late now. I used to print posts out and put them in binders but I gave up on that when I saw how much paper I was using! Now I just pray the Internet doesn't blow up or some such disaster!

Thanks for the good sounding balsamic vinegar recipe - I'll try it soon.

I have one of those scarf organizers - love it, love, love scarves and have many!!!!

Hugs dear - Mary

P.S. Huge congratulations to Abby - great news after many years of hard work and dedication.

Barbara F. said...

Hope everything turns out OK, Jane. I get out of breath but I know I need to get rid of excess weight. 😰. I am going to make this dressing so I will eat more salad! xo

Barbara F. said...

Hope everything turns out OK, Jane. I get out of breath but I know I need to get rid of excess weight. 😰. I am going to make this dressing so I will eat more salad! xo

Beth said...

You have my prayers for a good result from the stress test!! HUGS!!

Primitive Stars said...

Hi Jane, wishing you great news on the tests, hope you feel better real soon.....love the flowers, so pretty, need Spring soon.....the viniger recipe sounds great, thanks....congrats to your daughter....Blessings Francine.

Theresa said...

I will pray that ALL of your tests come back with answers and that you will feel better soon! I have been wanting to print my blog too but I know it would be expensive:) Love the flowers, brings a little Springtime when it is cold outside! Enjoy your week my friend, HUGS!

Linda@Coastal Charm said...

Hello Jane,
Happy to hear that your doctor had you take these tests and I pray that everything will come back okay. It's wonderful that you are on top of it now. You are not alone...my family likes to tease me about my blog too...oh well.

Blessings,
Linda

Donna said...

Hi Jane,
I'm praying that you get some positive answers from your tests!! I hope you are feeling better! Still here in warm & sunny Savannah, it's hard to remember that it's still February. Gonna be a shock going back to the arctic blast back at home:)

Lynne said...

I know that you are in the best of care with your cardiac specialists...I am "positive"-ly praying for you!

My husband always teases me about my blog. He says that I make things look so nice. I think everyone knows that we live in an average middle class home. I keep it very real.

I adore anything with Balsamic vinegar on it. Thank you for the recipe, Jane!

...and Ms Abigail...no surprise here, she is brilliant and beautiful. ( This isn't the first time I have used those words when sending accolades!) I am sure that she will agree that she is perceived quite honestly on your wonderful blog... ; )

Keep us posted on the status of her recent occurrence of "wayward wisdom"!

We say "hell in a hand-basket out west.

The best of blessings to the B's!
w/L

Melanie said...

Let's see if I can remember all that I wanted to comment on...first of all, the most important thing: your health. I'm glad you are feeling good about the test results and have peace of mind. You will be in my prayers! Abby's wisdom tooth - I have never heard of that with the nerves, poor girl. It's just the one wisdom tooth though? She's not having the other 3 removed? And speaking of tooth removal, aww...poor Milo. Brenda's dog is going through this same thing tomorrow, I believe. They'll be fine. My Zippo had to be put under to have his teeth cleaned a few years ago and he did fine. Of course, he didn't have to have any teeth removed either. We worry about our children AND our fur babies, don't we? I have a similar scarf holder that hangs in my closet; found mine at a resale shop! Do you start all your veggie seeds indoors? Your balsamic dressing recipe is very similar to the one I make. The only difference is that I use pure maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

Debbie said...

Jane, Good luck on your tests but it sounds like you will get good news. I have also been looking for signs of spring in the backyard but now that we're getting another "polar vortex" this week I think I'll just do what you did and bring some flowers home from the store. I'm a big fan of Rene's seeds as well. I bought some cosmo seeds last year from Renee's and they grew beautifully. I can't wait to plant more this year. Again, I wish you good luck on your tests and receiving good news.

20 North Ora said...

I can't believe so many are talking about their gardens and plants and everything here is so dead!! Oh well, Spring has to come eventually.

Praying for good results on your tests. Better to have them than worry about it and not know.

Judy

Pinky at Designs by Pinky said...

I hope all your tests come back with GOOD results! Thanks for the recipe, it sounds really good. And thanks for the idea to make my blog into a book!!!! We are getting snow tomorrow morning then could have a major storm on Sunday into Monday. UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!

NanaDiana said...

Oh- I hope your tests turn out okay. Did they say you might have a blockage? If it is just a calcium deposit they can blast that away pretty easy without surgery. I think once we get those tests done it kind of "frees" us because we know that soon we will have answers.

I really need to have my blog printed so I have it, too. So...you would go with the second company, then? Is that right?

Hope you have great rest of the week, Jane. Love to you- Diana

farmhouse-story said...

i hope the tests don't find anything, jane:) congrats to abby!! so sorry she would rewarded with a darn wisdom tooth, though:( love the idea of turning the blog into print. i LOVE vinaigrettes--tfs yours. i pinned it, to try it! have a great week, -try not to worry.

Penny said...

Thinking of you Jane. Hope the test results come out well. I am sure they will. You are always an inspiration.

Decor To Adore said...

Thinking of you dear one. Thank you or sharing the hard bound blogging books. I sent you an email earlier this morning.

Lori E said...

Whatever it is you can make it better. Positive thoughts headed your way girl.
I love the book idea and gave away a book on my blog a couple years ago....not of my blog but of the winner's blog lol. Funny thing is I still haven't done my own.
Your family is right. It is a chronicle of family life and a treasure. Who cares what year the photo is from and of course you are far more polite than me and would say the restaurant is wonderful.
That is because you are such a sweetheart and you always try to be a positive upbeat person.

Kathleen Grace said...

Congratulations to Abby for graduating with honors! You have a lot to be proud of Jane:>)
As for "the truth" behind Blondies Journal, You tell the hubs and Abby that the small inconsistencies are called "artistic license".
This is your view of your life, and you are free to describe it any way you like!
I am in the process of turning my blog into hard cover books through Blurb, it's a very easy program and you can edit and arrange your photos and posts as you like. It is not cheap, you pay by the page at this company too, but I feel it is so important to have a copy that can't be lost or destroyed and as a keepsake for my family. I actually got a significant break on the price by purchasing a copy for each of my girls too. My grandchildren will some day be able to read my musings, see posts about family and how we lived, they will also have a hard copy of some of my favorite recipes that I have shared! That is priceless to me!

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Jane, I am sorry to hear of your health problems! I hope the test results turn out well and that something simple can correct the problem!

Your dressing sounds wonderful!

Susie said...

Blondie, I am holding you in my prayers. Health issues are scary at times....then it's the not knowing that is worse. I am glad you are under your drs. care.
I like the books of your blog...I have used pictures that maybe I have used many times on my blog..LOL Please take care. xoxoxo,Susie

Lisa @ Texas Decor said...

I hope you get perfect results from your tests. I'm sure you're fine, but that's good the Dr. ordered them anyway. Those pincushion mums are so pretty! I've never seen them before. One of my favorites is the spider mum. Love those! Poor Abigail with the wisdom tooth! My oldest had all his wisdom teeth removed by an oral surgeon when he was 17. My youngest will have his removed soon too. Their pediatric dentist just recommended they have them out between their junior and senior year in high school. We fashioned an ice pack with a pair of tube socks so he could tie it around the top or his head and jaw! I even took pics! ;) Hope her surgery goes well. :)

Traci said...

Sending lots of prayers your way for good test results & to take away any worry/anxiety you may have. I have lots of things in my yard starting to come up & turn green but I'm not ready to start trimming & cleaning up just yet. We live in Louisiana - home of crazy weather - it's still possible for some frosts. The flowers you bought are so pretty! I think when I make my TJ's run this weekend I'm going to pick up some fresh flowers. WE've had a lot of rain & it's been really gloomy!

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

I bust out laughing at you hitting her over the head with your book : )

I know that Balisha over at http://www.simplybalisha.blogspot.com/ ( new blog / she has an older one too ) gets her blog made into a book every year but I do not know what company she uses.

Walking your four blocks in the fresh air and feeling as if you could walk forever is a good sign :)

Poppy said...

Hi Jane,

Although this is only my second visit to your wonderful blog, I have enjoyed your posts very much, specifically, the variety of subjects covered in such a cohesive way! Kudos to your lovely daughter for her brilliant accomplishment and also congrats to you on the printed copy of your blog!

Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way with regards to your test. In the meantime, do walk in that fantastic, fresh, albeit cold, air; it does wonders both for the heart and the soul.

xo
Poppy

Deb said...

hello jane
hope all is well with you & you are feeling better soon!
congratulations to abby!!
sweet milo ~ will still be as cute as a button with or without teeth xo
posted the gnudi recipe on my blog today ~ hope you try it and love it- let me know if you do ♥

Unknown said...

Jane,

I think the feeling you got as you were walking to your car was God letting you know that everything will be fine!! I'll keep you in my prayers.

Sounds like you were getting lots of teasing about your blog. I don't let my husband read mine. He'd ask questions, I'd get pissed, so nope, he can't see it. He doesn't "do" computers, so no worries there! :)

Congrats to your sweet daughter for graduating with honors. Our Blake did too. Proud of our kids/grandkids in my case. When you think about all the directions they could choose, for them to get honors is wonderful.

Take care, keep the faith, and let us know what you learn from your tests.

Your friend, Kathy

Linda said...

Love and prayers from Texas!!!

Junkchiccottage said...

Hi Jane,
It was so good to read your post today. I am praying for good news on your stress test. Hopefully we will see Spring around here soon. Stay warm and cozy and wishing you the best.
Kris

Unknown said...

I had a couple of health scares this year - ( one terrifying one actually) I think waiting for results will kill ya quicker than anything else lol )
Sending positive vibes out your way ( I only have 2 of them left- but they're yours - all yours - promise )
My daughter said the same thing about my blog btw - which made me laugh out loud at yours - I find I'm honest to a fault - but sometimes maybe the timing is a little off ( poetic license it's called I think :)
XOXOXOXOXOXO

It's me said...

Love and prayers from me...x !

Sue said...

Well, it looks as if I picked a good day to pick up the computer and actually write something and then stop to catch up with a few people. I am so sorry you had to have tests and have to wait for results...waiting is the hardest. I think we have hit the age where little things start to happen, but hopefully nothing serious. I sometimes feel as if I have "symptom of the day" going on here.

Obviously I haven't been blogging. Between my weather blahs and all the wedding stuff...I just can't concentrate on anything right now. I hope to get some focus back soon! Saying a little prayer all goes well for you! S.

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

I have been thinking about you a lot dear friend.
So please e-mail me when you know something.
This is one of the hardest times of the year. Especially with our hard winter.
I love your flowers and I would love to see your blog books!
I have one, and would like to do more.
OH Jane, lets do something this summer really fun!
Big Hugs friend,
Cindy
Who needs to find something to post about..hehe.

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

I hope you get decent results, and I think the relief you felt in walking those windy four blocks after taking care of yourself through test, results and whatever you'll need to tweak... was because you were taking care of yourself. Once we get that done instead of hemming and hawing and worrying, it seems we can deal with it all just alittle easier. Thanks for sharing the recipe! YUM!

Leslie Harris said...

Jane I have to begin by telling you that this post is an example of why your readers love you so much. I was reading along and feeling so concerned about your tests and the next second I'm laughing out loud at your conversation with your daughter And then I'm grabbing a pen and writing down that recipe for the dressing. And looking closer at Milo to see how old he looks, and seriously it felt like a one wonderful conversation. The only thing that was missing was the cup of coffee.
On a serious note, I'm a big believer in the power of prayer and I'll remember you when I pray for my son (just the normal mother worries) Although I just know everything is fine. Take care and hug Milo for me, he looks so sweet.

Susan Shull said...

Praying for great results! I can just imagine what my boys would say about my blog if they ever read it. Which they won't! Smile!

Balisha said...

Hi Jane,
Health issues just fester until we know the results of tests etc. I do hope that your problems are few and that there is nothing to worry about.
Congrats to your daughter...honors...what a great job she did.
thanks for the recipe....I've been searching for one that I can use for many things. Love using those jars too.
Sleep tight tonight,
Balisha

Nancy's Notes said...

Jane, I'm praying for you dear friend. I'll be pulling for you and really know your tests will be alright. Spring is coming, no doubt about it. Take care.
Hugs and blessings.
Nancy

Anonymous said...

I will be thinking about you every day until we all hear the results…I'm praying that there will be a good outcome.

Beth said...

Hope and pray your test results are good and that you get answers for your symptoms. Best wishes to Abby for her surgery too. You always cook great things, and I love hearing about them. I made your peasant stew last week and we loved it! Stay warm, spring will be here soon.
xo, Beth

Kelly said...

I know this is a scary time not knowing what your test results may reveal. I hope whatever it is that it has an easy fix and will not be a chronic condition. Glad to hear that you're feeling better now too. Congrats to your daughter for graduating with honors! That is quite an achievement. Love your pretty new flowers. Hopefully, that will cheer you up with these long winter days. Hard to believe that daylight savings time is right around the corner! Btw, I have a similar scarf holder/hanger too. I love it. Keeps them wrinkle free and easy to find.

Elaine said...

I hope your tests come out just fine. I am sure they will.

Love the idea of a blog book. I want to do one. Mine would be much shorter than yours! I use my blog as a memory jogger. It's great to see what I served at different parties I had.

I hope Milo does well with his dental surgery. I can understand your worry. I obsess over my pets!

I hope you have a fun weekend planned. I am looking forward to relaxing!

bj said...

Praying your tests results are goood.
No flowers blooming around here but the weather is warming up some. Windy today and 54 degrees this morning at 7:45.
Spring is right around the corner. :)

RURAL said...

Oh sweetie, here's to great and good news for you. I'm praying for you to have good results. Thank goodness you have a great doctor who listened to you when you talked about being short of breath.

Love the flowers, and the mason jars they are in. And I might look into the blog book, great idea.

Jen

Brenda Pruitt said...

I've always love Renees seeds. I wish I'd made my blog into a book before I lost all the posts last July.
Brenda

Gypsy Heart said...

You always share such interesting things! I'll have to try that dressing. Glad your Dr ordered the tests and so happy all is well! We are so blessed when we have our health.

xo
Pat