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Coffee Talk 01.28.18

Good morning, friends! This has been a week, I’ll tell you what. The first half of the week flew, but I feel like I’ve lived a month since Thursday.

Thursday is when everything broke down — my blog, my back, and various and sundry mishaps that made me question all day if it was a Monday or a full moon or what. It took us several hours yesterday to finally fix the blog. For those who understand such matters, I had a plugin that was messing things up.

When we finally zeroed in on the plugin and deleted it, magically everything went back to normal! But man, until then, how frustrating to try to work. I wish my back was an easy of a fix!

I’m not even sure I’ve mentioned my back here yet. I know I shared on my Insta Story, but sometimes I forget what I say where. I was trying not to whine about it because no one likes a complainer, but I’m 4 days in with no relief, so now you get to hear me complain.

Honestly, though, I’m not really intending to complain. I’m just telling you what’s going on, but anytime I talk about anything going on in my life that isn’t peachy keen, someone tells me I’m complaining. #lovetheinternets

Anyway, it does seem like I have more than my fair share of annoying ailments. Is this just old age? I mean, I was JUST getting my running mojo back… it is hard not to be frustrated at this point.

This back thing has happened before, at least twice. The first time it was so bad, I could hardly turn my head, so I went to the doctor and he gave me a bee venom injection. Yes, for real. He’s an MD with holistic tendencies. LOL! It worked, but I do not relish the thought of going through that again, and I can at least function this time, so I’ve been living with the situation. I am pretty sure the 2nd time it happened, it went away on its own, but I don’t know that it lasted this long.

What it is is just like a “crick” in my back, on the inside of the right shoulder blade. The pain goes into my spine sometimes, and occasionally radiates down my right arm. When I’m up and walking around, I’m fine, but sitting really bothers it (hi, I sit at the computer for 8-10 hours a day!) and laying down isn’t too fun either. Although when I got rid of my pillow so I can lay flat in bed, I’ve been doing better at night, which is good. I didn’t get much sleep the first night.

All that to say… I’m nearing the end of my rope, and if it’s not miraculously healed when I wake up tomorrow, I guess I’ll call the doctor. I have a physical therapist who is amazing, but I would have to go through the doctor to get to him, I think, and I know the doctor will want to do the injection. And maybe I should just do that and get it over with. At this point, I’m leaning towards that solution.

I haven’t been very good about keeping heat on it or taking ibuprofen, so I probably have no right to complain. It’s just that I’ve got stuff to do, yo! I have a hard time stopping long enough to do any of the things that might help, but I realize at some point I will have to. No lectures about slowing down, please. I know, I know… fortunately today is Sunday and it’s a good day to take it easy.

Okay, so enough about that. Despite the technical difficulties and my body breaking down, we managed to get two outfits shot yesterday, and my husband offered to take us all out to dinner last night, so that was nice.

We finally finished Season 2 of The Crown last night, and I’m so sad it’s over. Does anyone know when Season 3 comes out? Please don’t tell me I have to wait till next fall…

I’m still finishing up This Is Us. I watch that one alone (no one in my family has any tolerance for the drama) and with 5 people vying for the TV, I only get to watch an episode or two a week. Sometimes I even forget I have it to watch.

Every time a new episode of Fixer Upper comes out, my 12 y/o daughter and I eagerly download it and watch it, so those will be over soon. I’m super bummed this is their last season.

What other shows should I watch? Anything new I can start, now that everything I like to watch is ending?

I also want to finish reading The Magnolia Story and Lauren Graham’s Talking As Fast As I Can, and then I can get into another novel. My daughter gave me the Lauren Graham book for Christmas, and I started it and then started the Gaines’ story, and I haven’t finished either.

This is what social media has done to me. I used to read a book like one of those in a single afternoon. It’s such a sad commentary on our culture, isn’t it? I mean, if I’ve lost all ability to read a book from start to finish, how on earth are our kids supposed to learn to do so with all the distractions at their fingertips? I really try not to think about it too much.

Speaking of kids, my son spent the night with a friend at one of the two colleges he’s been accepted to, so I can’t wait to hear more about that when he gets home. It should be good for him to see the dorms and get a taste of college life, and hopefully this experience will help him make up his mind about which college he wants to attend, as he still hasn’t made a commitment.

It is surreal to think of him not being here with us, but I know it has to happen sometime.

Last night when I was out to dinner with just Paul and the girls, one of them said, “This is going to be what it’s like next year when D’s off at college. Just the four of us.”

Yep. I guess so.

It’s all good, though. As long as I know he’s where he wants to be and he’s having fun, I think I’ll be okay. As one of you pointed out once before, it’s not the first one that’s so hard to let go, it’s the last. And that makes sense. The house will still be full and plenty chaotic with the two girls at home, but when it’s time to send my youngest off to college and I’m looking at an empty nest, I may not be as chill about it as I am with this one.

So anyway, what are you all up to today? After church, I have no plans. I really am going to try to take it easy, read a book, lay on a heating pad, and see if I can get to feeling better.

Before I let you go, don’t forget, registration for the next session of Adore Your Wardrobe closes on Tuesday night, and the course starts on Wednesday, January 31st! If you’ve been on the fence, don’t wait to long. Kelly does not accept late registrations.

I guess that’s about it for me! Hope y’all have a lovely and restful Sunday.

Join The Conversation

118 Responses

  1. I can so relate to the blogging issues, Jo-Lynne!! I just had an issue where 2 of my pages weren’t able to be edited….definitely not a huge problem, but still it was an annoyance.It’s always the part of life, where life is going along just fine, and thus your expectations are it will continue that way. Then a blip happens and it’s disrupting!! Ugh….
    I’m so sorry for your back. Again….that used to be part of my life when I was a dentist (imagine sitting half hunched over and twisted everyday for 8 hours….ha ha). In fact, we were just saying how we don’t need the thermacares like we used to. (Have you tried thermacares? It’s a great way to have heat on the problem area. It worked best on me when I was laying on the thermacare. Having it on and sitting up, didn’t seem to be as effective). But you might also look into ELDOA if you can find somewhere near you. It’s a stretching for the fascia around your muscles, and has helped me tremendously….
    XOXO
    Jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
    PS…Can you tell I couldn’t sleep this morning? LOL

  2. JoLynn, I would recommend a good massage therapist for your back. It’s amazing what they can do! Your physical therapist may be able to recommend one if you don’t have one. You may also check to see if you can get into your physical therapist without a doctor referral. I’ve found that I can usually get into a specialist without visiting my regular doctor for a referral. I hope you find relief for your back. The best heating pad is a cloth bag or sock filled with rice and warmed in the microwave. The moist heat from the rice feels so good.

  3. Sorry about your back pain. I have issues too. Have you tried ice instead of heat? If the problem is muscle inflammation, ice works better than heat (frozen gel cold pack or bag of frozen peas work great because they mold to the shape of the area needing cold therapy). It breaks the pain cycle by numbing so the nerves stop sending pain messages to the brain. After 24-48 hours, then try alternating ice with heat. Hope your day of rest is good and gives you a chance to try this.

  4. Hey Jo-Lynne!  I sure hope you are feeling better! I’m about your age and I know what your talking about when it comes to the body!!  When your in your 20’s and 30’s your good to go but when you hit 40 the body starts going through so many changes ( not for the good ) but GOD is always there to help us in every aspect of life! You had mentioned an eye cream that you were using that you like, you said that you could get it at the drug store. Could you  give me the name of it.        THANKS A BUNCH

  5. Jo Lynne,
    I have had two spinal surgeries scoliosis at 13 and spondilylothesis at 41, ice is better than heat, and Biofreeze spray works wonders…good luck, back pain is no fun.

  6. Jolynne, I hope your back gets better. No lectures but while your trying heat, try ice too. Ice decreases inflammation which might be the cause of your pain. Back pain is really awful so I can totally appreciate your complaining. Plus, it’s your blog so your right to complain. ???? I will say a prayer the pain subsides and this week is much better for you. ????????

  7. I had a similar problem back problem and acupuncture and cupping worked for me. I am also a Christian.  It is ancient medicine and it works in many cases. Praying that you feel better soon and that God will guide you to the best treatment. 

    1. I’m so glad it worked for you. I don’t have any problem with those methods, I just think they sound uncomfortable. Haha! But if PT and massage don’t work, I’d be open to that.

  8. I admit I haven’t read all the comments, but have you tried a chiropractor? I go religiously once a month and it is the best thing. I have tightness in my left shoulder/scapula which causes issues in my mid back and neck and the adjustments always put me back together (just like Humpty Dumpty ????).

  9. Ouch!  I can feel your pain Jo-Lynne!  I was suffer from sciatica for over a year.  It would come & go but when it came…misery!  Sometime I could hardly walk.  Laying down was the worst.  I even had to sleep in the easy chair in my room.   X-ray showed nothing but MRI should a cyst that was pressing against a nerve..  Had surgery on Jan 16 and feel like a new woman.  Post-op visit with the surgeon tomorrow.   Don’t ignore the pain, Jo-Lynne.  Get to your doctor.  No need to suffer (not that I advocate pain-killers). I also was not good taking the Tylenol/Advil.  
    Hope you get some relief soon.  Keep us posted.
    Xoxo
    Cyndi

  10. So sorry about your back! I’ve had problems in that area of my back many times and its really miserable! I feel for you and hope you’re better soon.
    I tried to access the ViGoss jeans you had in your instastory and couldn’t get it to work (after I downloaded like to knowit and reset my forgotten instagram password, then I couldn’t find the jeans!!) Could you please help me find a link to them? Thanks so much!! Rest today! Thank you!!

  11. Hi Jo-Lynne, so sorry about your back! From an ole nurse – I would ask that PT you know about recommendations for a Physical Medicine MD- these MDs focus on rehab  also called PMR MDs- maybe that is the type you see. I always prefer MD before chiropractic to get a complete diagnosis. And thorough PT is key to get exercises you can use to perhaps avoid this issue. Just my 2 cents. Other show suggestions- “Home Town”. Cute Christian couple doing fixer upper in Miss. It is “on demand” and on Monday nights. Season 2 just started.. I hope you feel better! Sometimes it feels like a constant 2steps forward and 3 back. 

    1. Thanks, Julie. Definitely checking out Home Town. And I agree with your recommendations. I don’t know if my doc would quality for that or not but they definitely opt for holistic solutions over medicinal when possible.

  12. Ha! I’m in bed with back pain today myself. Mine happened at the gym yesterday. I think things like this happen easier now that we’re in our 40s.

    The beige sweater you tried on in your instastory today from stitchfix…what brand is that? Love it!!!

  13. Prayers for your back. I understand how frustrating that is. Like the rest of us, ain’t nobody got time for that. 

  14. I totally get the whole missing one of your kids. It has been rough because I cook for 3 instead of 4. His room stays neat. I miss our talks. He is coming home for the Superbowl next weekend (Go Eagles) so it will be great to have a full house. Just be comforted to know he will be where he belongs. Can’t wait to hear his decision.

    1. I’m right there with you Jennifer! My oldest started college this year. House is so quiet with just 3 of us now. My heart jumps when I see his name on my phone when he calls☺️. It’s awesome to hear and see him maturing and spreading his wings. I heard my younger son talking on the phone the other day (what 17 y/o talks on the phone?!). When I asked who he was talking to and he said his brother my heart was so full! Enjoy super bowl with your whole family! Go Eagles! 

    2. I hope you have a great visit! I am actually looking forward to cooking for 4. Haha! Silver lining. It seems like everything is made for families of 4 – recipes, Hello Fresh, hotel rooms, restaurant tables, etc. I keep telling myself that I’ll finally have a guest room and I can order Hello Fresh and it will be enough. 🙂 But I really will miss him.

  15. I see what you talk about as sharing. Do these people that say you’re complaining think you have a perfect life? I love that you are such an open book (no pun inteded????). They sound like friends that only want to be friends in the good times. Who needs them? In regards to your back I think you should try ice instead of heat. I’ve had issues like that before and I find that more relieving than a heating pad. In regards to shows to watch, have you ever seen The Goldberg’s? It’s a silly sitcom that takes place in the Philly area and is very cute, especially if you know the area. I grew up in NJ and went to college in south Jersey so all the local references keep me connected and my husband and I crack up watching it! It’s a nice break from all the drama on tv and in real life! Have a great Sunday! 

    1. I have no idea, honestly. One day a woman emailed to me privately to tell me that all I ever do is complain, and she listed all these things that had been going on in my life that I’d mentioned. I happily helped her out by unsubscribing her from my emails. I mean, seriously, if people don’t like what I share, why not just find another blog? I can only share what is happening. If it’s crappy, it’s crappy. I’m actually quite thankful this isn’t worse. It’s been worse before, but this I can work through.

      The Goldbergs sounds interesting. I haven’t seen it, but if it’s in Philly, that could be fun.

      1. That is why we all like you. You share things we go through so it makes us know you are normal and real. You did the right thing with that lady. 🙂

      2. The day that Jo=Lynne stops “complaining” is the day I move on to other blogs.  The perfect life scenarios on the web just aren’t real (and often make us feel badly), and that’s why this is one of my favorites.  

  16. So sorry about your back. Makes one feel frustrated, helpless and kinda wears one down. Oh, that’s me ????. I was told to use an ice pack if it’s inflamed. I sleep on one because I also have started getting hot flashes at night! Oh the joys! On Netflix my girls and I watched Stranger Things. I was unsure because of the language, but they’ve heard it all already. They know right and wrong. I also watch the Lethal Weapon series on Hulu and Blue Bloods. On PBS or maybe Amazon there’s Grantchester and The Durrells in Corfu. Happy Sunday!

  17. I’m so sorry you’re in pain! I’ve struggled with upper back pain all my adult life too, and the best advice I got was from my chiropractor– tho’ you might not be able to do this while in a high degree of pain, keep it in mind going forward: fatiguing the muscles is key, so overhead weight presses (not too heavy weight, just repeat until your muscles are tired out) and stretching out the muscles around the shoulders and sternum help tremendously. It makes all those tight, grippy muscles loosen up and relax! I do this at least once each week when I’m at the gym as a preventative measure. Hope you feel better fast!!! 🙂

    1. Interesting. I did overhead weight presses with my trainer the day before this came on. I was already wondering if that is what caused it. It didn’t come on till the next day, though, and it was gradual. And I’ve done those exercises many times before with no issues. Getting old is for the birds!

  18. It sounds like a doctor’s visit would be a good idea at this point, but the Salonpas capsicum (hot) patches work great for me when I have a back issue. Since it is adhesive, it stays put and works better than a heating pad at night in ped. When I’ve had flare-ups, they’ve made me comfortable enough to sleep, which is huge. Might be something to try. I hope you get some relief soon. 

  19. Are you sure not sciatica. I have that occasionally but doesn’t hurt as bad as yours. I just do my leg pull-ups which helps over the course of a few days. But you may have something totally different. I’m no doctor. Ha. Just an observation. I did not see the two outfits. Just saw a sweatshirt from TJMaxx. I do like that though.

    1. It’s not lower back, it is upper. It is really more neck and shoulder. I definitely think some exercises could help.

      I haven’t shared the outfits yet that we shot yesterday… they are coming this week!

  20. Two shows we really enjoy watching are:  Home Town on HGTV (9p on Monday’s EST), the couple on it are as cute and fun as Chip and Joanna, and they’ve just had their first little one; SWAT (10p EST on Thursday’s, I think).  Paul will love being the only guy in the house!  Good luck with your back!  I hope sitting in church was not too painful.  And I hope the injection you can get for it is not as painful as a cortisone injection or the gel injection I have to get in my arthritic knee twice/year.  I honestly appreciate you sharing ‘real life’ things that go one because it makes your blog more personable and real.  It also affords me the opportunity to pray more specifically for you and your family too!  Have a blessed day!  It’s wet in GA today, but the rain will help with the drought.j

  21. Ignore those that say you are complaining. No, this is real life and what we’ve come to expect from you. You have a loyal following (if I can use that word) that feel like you’re a friend that has moved away but stays in touch. Not every day can be perfect.  You’re just keeping it real. Feel better soon.

  22. Just sending some sympathy your way and praying it’s not an injury and just an annoyance! I’ve rolled over in bed (I know, right?) and messed up my neck so bad, I immediately went to the chiro for deep massage and adjustment. He said w/o doing that it can take a week or more to feel better. Enjoy Netflix! We watched stranger things, it was weird, but hard to stop watching it. I just started gilmore girls because it’s not as gross, and pretty light. Have you already watched Alias or 24? When you look back and realize all the time spent watching all the seasons, it’s is sobering. (10 seasons of anything!) Again, take care of yourself and feel better!

    1. Yeah, I don’t want to think about the time I’ve wiled away in front of the TV. I justify it because it’s my only downtime. I am always working – either blog work or laundry or driving kids to and fro. I have two vices – my spa appointments and my TV shows. Haha! Those are the only two times I ever sit still.

    2. Oh and P.S. I watched Gilmore Girls all the way thru 2x. I LOVE THAT SHOW. Also loved Parenthood. Haven’t seen Alias or Stranger Things. I like things pretty clean, especially since my kids are often around when I’m watching.

  23. My son is starting high school next year, and this weekend we have to pick his courses for freshman year. I can’t believe it. I am already getting melancholy at the fact that he will be gone in 4 years!

  24. I’m sorry your back is bothering you.  I have similar issues with one shoulder from time to time.  Alternating heat and ice, along with deep tissue massages, works best for me.  I hope it doesn’t last much longer.  It’s very frustrating to be slowed down when we have things to do! 

    1. That is for sure! I know I need to try ice and heat… but I’m a baby and hate ice. I have ice packs tho from my foot injuries. What is the protocol? Is it still 20 min on and 20 min off?

      1. Yes, alternate every 20 minutes.  I hate the ice, too.  I drink my favorite flavored decaf during that part to warm me up and make myself not hate it as much. ☕️ Also, as you said, ibuprofen helps, too.  I hope it improves!

  25. So sorry about your back pain. I have had that same situation several times over the past 15 years. One thing that helped me was deep tissue massage with a therapist that knows how to work that area. It hurt really bad when it was happening but the pain completely disappeared in the following days. On a holistic note,  I have also gotten relief with castor oil packs with heat and essential oils. Good luck 

  26. So sorry about your back ????!  I too have had back problems for quite a few years ! I honestly have come to the conclusion that carrying a baby for 9 months and all the back labor weakens your spine? Just my theory but if you have had a bigger baby and back labor, I truly think that’s when my problems started……my physical therapist does acupuncture during most of my sessions ( up here in Canada most of the PTs also do acupuncture) and that really helps when my back flares.
    As for The Crown I think you will have to wait until next fall. ????Also they they have a new cast playing the older queen and prince Phillip and some of the other cast as well, so that will be interesting!
    Hope you can get some relief from the back …… I feel your pain !  The worst! 

  27. Have you thought about seeing a chiropractor for your back? This summer I had awful back pain and could not bend, sit or sleep comfortably.  I went to the chiropractor and found my spine was titled to one side and the vertebrae were compressed.  I needed adjusting and began decompression.  This is were you lay on table with a belt strapped around your waist and they attach a pulley to the belt and the machine straecthes you relieve the pressure on your spine.  I am not sure if you like chiropractors but it is definitely help me to regain movement and getting back to doing things with my family.

    1. I saw a chiropractor for my plantar fasciitis and he was awesome. I have considered calling him for this, but the PT who got me back on my feet (literally, haha) after two foot injuries is also excellent and uses some chiro techniques. I expect either of them could help me and I’m definitely going to seek one out. I just don’t know if they’ll see me without a doctor – I don’t need a referral for insurance, but the PT seemed to need some doctor’s recommendation to do work in the past – I think it’s for legal reasons, in case something is broken.

  28. Hi Jo-Lynne,  everything you’ve shared with us surely does resonate with me. After being in a head-on car crash ( opposite lane driver had a seizure and crossed into my lane), I, too, suffer from chronic back pain from cervical spine injury. To this day it affects me and I’ve been through traction, epidural steroids, PT, etc. I understand what an annoyance it can be. And even though I am a nurse, I push things off and push myself through until I cannot move!! But hey—-I’m alive!!  Have you had an MRI? Ask your doc to recommend a physiatrist who will diagnose and treat your cause. And yes, when that last child leaves for college, it will be a very tough time. I remember telling myself to keep breathing and keep moving. And now I enjoy visiting each one and the times they are home are just so special and treasured. But yes, I miss them terribly. Thank goodness for texting and FaceTime!! Let yourself cry and even grieve when the time comes but also find the positive in it.  We are all here for you!! Take care and be well!!

  29. I hope you start feeling better friend! I turned 50 this year and my hip bothers me sometimes now…what?!?!!!!!!! Ugh!!!! Hugs 🙂

  30. Have you considered Acupuncture? I work (admin) at a clinic here in SC, and we have very happy patients. Ideally, practitioner should be trained in China. 

  31. Sounds like you had an eventful and somewhat stressful week!  Hope this one coming is calm, relaxing and you feel better! 

  32. Always love reading your “chats”. And I will throw out 1 more idea on your back. Since this sounds like something that may be chronic, see your PT & have him/her give you exercises/stretches for what is going on with your back. Mine gave me ones to help relieve the pain initially & then maintenance exercises. It has made a HUGE difference. Not in pain as long & doesn’t happen nearly as often. Even an occasional pain like this that stays is just too many.

  33. Please don’t ignore it any longer, Jo-Lynne, and to heck with those who say you’re whining!  No, you’re not!!!
    Can’t people be compassionate towards other’s anymore?  Take care of yourself and let us know what works when you find it!  

  34. My husband has been in the same boat with this shoulder, not his back.  He has found relief from a good massage therapist, who he sees twice a week, and also a chiropractor who does a manual adjustment once a week.  I also see the same chiropractor and he helped my back issues tremendously, and helped decrease the headaches I was having.  Hope you feel better soon!

  35. Have you checked into a standing desktop? I work for a major healthcare system remotely and was sitting for 6 hrs a day at a computer and sitting became excruciating. Dr. suggested I not sit so much since yoga, ice/heat, pt, pain relievers weren’t helping, and the sitting was just continuing to aggravate my back. My husband brought home a standing desktop for me to try. It sits on top of my desk and raises/lowers so I can stand or sit if I feel I need to. I’ve been using it for about 6 months now, and I’ve gotten so used to it, I hardly sit at all anymore. I did buy a thick foam kitchen mat at walmart to stand on for foot comfort. My back pain has decreased significantly. The standing desktops can be pricey but worth it when we figured how much was spent on pain relief that wasn’t working.

  36. So sorry to hear that your body is protesting your physical activity efforts. I thought I was the only one who struggled with that. Whenever I up my HITT, I pay the price big time with new injuries or old injuries flaring up.

    Try to go see your Physiotherapist. Mine is a miracle worker and worth every penny. Try warm baths with Epsom salts. The magnesium in the Epsom salts can help to calm any muscle spasm.
    Feel better!!

  37. So sorry to hear about your back. I totally get it. Remember I asked you re wisdom tooth removal? Mine didn’t go so well and I ended up with two surgeries, two needle aspirations (from the OUTSIDE!) and five days in the hospital. I’m still not even close to recovered. I don’t know what it is about us that we don’t slow down. I know you said no lectures – and I’m not! – just sharing my recent experience with not listening to my body when it was telling me something was wrong. 

    As for tv, hmmm… I’m probably not the best person to ask, but I’ll be following here to get more ideas. 

    Feel better!

  38. If you like fixer upper, check out hometown on HGTV.  It’s actually filmed in my home town which is funny but it’s a lot like fixer upper.  I’ve not been able to get into this is us either!  Hope your back gets better! 

  39. I know how debilitating back pain is!  Looks like everyone has good advice. I also highly recommend acupuncture!  Works great for me and the needles are not painful. My daughter also has acupuncture when her back pain flares up. I hope you find what works for you!!

  40. Hey Jo- Lynne! I’m so sorry to hear about your back issues. Hope you get some relief soon! I don’t have suggestions about that BUT I do have a series to suggest. Have you watched the  Masterpiece theater series Victoria? I love it and am totally hooked. Season 2 started a couple weeks ago. Season 1 is on Amazon prime. Season 2 is also available as they are released. 

  41. Sorry about your back. Nothing worse than back pain. Yoga, stretching, ice and chiropractor are my suggestions. Also I wanted to share something with you……. Before Christmas you shared AG jeans were on sale, $89. I bought them. Had to have them hemmed. Wore them for the first time today. I’m in love!!!!!!!! Thank you. 

  42. So sorry to hear you are having problems with your back.  I would highly recommend a chiropractor.  They have akwatpys done wonders for me and you can get some immediate relief.

  43. Bless you heart with your back. I did see you talking about it on Insta and I can totally understand. I was complaining about mine this morning when we got to Sunday school. I’ve had back issues for at least 20 years. Do the Advil…that’s an easy place to start. The dr told me (years ago) I could take 3, 3X a day for a couple of weeks. I popped two this morning.

    You are right, you’ll be fine as long as David is happy. That’s what I’ve found. And while you will dread the last one leaving, I’m here to tell you it won’t be nearly as bad as you fear. I had no idea how we’d deal with the empty nest, but the truth is as much as you miss them, it’s not so bad doing what you want, when you want and you can eat out for a fraction of the price. LOL. Hang in there friend! Things will get better. XO

    1. And I totally forgot…The Crown isn’t coming back until next January, I think. WHAT???? Ugh! They are replacing the whole cast too. Google season 3 and you can read about it. ????

  44. Thank so much for honestly sharing your life with us. Seeing a Christian cope with her trials & tribulations is a positive model for us. You are not a complainer: you are a young woman who speaks her truth in love! Way to go!!

  45. I’m so sorry that you’re having back problems, and I hope you feel better real soon.  I’ve had neck, hip, and foot issues at different times.  When you are better, remember to stretch and strengthen, as the PT prescribes.  Also, I’ve found regular (monthly) deep tissue massage to be extremely helpful.  (You are not a complainer!!!  You’re just keeping it real!) 

    1. I really need to be better about stretching. I was trying to do better with that… and now this. Sigh. And I am all for monthly massages. Sounds a lot better than injections. 🙂

  46. Jolynn! I am sorry you are going through this with your cervical spine/shoulder. Ouch!!! I am thinking it might be more about the time you spend sitting at the computer than your age.. i also think seeing a physical therapist to give you exercises to do is a VERY good idea! Ask him if he has a Yoga instructor that he refers patients to. I love Yoga and it has helped me so much. But, having said that, finding the right instructor is key. He or she could even do a few private sessions with you to show you stretches that could help you specific to your area of concern.
    Take Care and rest when you can!!!
    Also, what a wonderful opportunity for your son!!! My son is a sophomore in college and he is loving it! It’s such an exciting time for them!! 

    1. the computer is definitely part of it. I am right now standing at my kitchen counter with my laptop propped up on a bunch of books. Ha! I think I need to make the standing desk a matter of priority.

  47. So sorry about your back! You were so excited to get back to your running routine. My husband who turned 60 recently started running marathons a few yrs ago but every year as he would start his training, something would happen. His knee or back would give him problems and he would go to his physical therapist and would start his training again as soon as he could but the last two years he had kidney stones and it seemed to get worse when he started his training ????so he decided to skip his last marathon with much frustration. So it can always be worse.  But we definitely need to listen to our bodies. 
    I loved The Crown and was also sad to end Season 2 and like you hoping it doesn’t take a year to come back. I just started the 2nd season of Divorce with Sarah Jessica Parker and it’s definitely one you want to watch wothout the kids. Hope you feel better! 

  48. Hi Jolynne
    Just wanted you to know.. no one has the right to judge you! Thanks to you all of us(especially me) are blessed to have you encouraging us and being an example to follow.
    We women need more supporting of one another and less judging!
    I, so appreciate all you do to show us what looks good And share your world and life .. family etc. with us! I am praying for your back cuz I understand what that feels like. I love all the same shows as you do. Unfortunately the Crown is not starting up for a long while????. Also, my daughter graduated from Gordon too! You are sweet , kind ,funny and brave to put yourself out there for all to see!!  Thank you my friend in God’s way… angel

    1. Hi Angel. Thanks for your encouragement this morning! And how cool that your daughter went to Gordon. I wonder if she knew my cousins. They graduated a couple years ago – triplets. 🙂

  49. Ugh, back issues are the worst. I’ve struggled with painful flare ups for nearly 20 years, so I know how miserable it can be. I wish I had some sound advice, but I usually end up just riding it out with ibuprofen. I went to a chiropractor years ago and my issues got even worse, so I’m a bit of a baby about seeing anyone about nowadays. Really hoping yours resolves on its own and soon!

  50. I had similar back/shoulder pain a week or two ago after being away from home for a few weeks and sleeping in a different bed. At least a few times since then I’d place a tennis ball on the inside of my shoulder blade (while lying on the floor); every minute or so I’d move it to a different pressure point in that area. I found that it really helps, especially if you do it regularly.

  51. Hi Jo-Lynne- Just now reading your post as we had a busy Sunday after church. So, so sorry to hear about your continuing back problem. I too, have a “pinch” near my left shoulder blade after lifting weights a couple of weeks ago. It is slowly getting better- but backed off on the weights and doing lots of stretching! I pray that yours gets better very soon! I always appreciate how real you are and please don’t ever think that you can not share your thoughts about anything on your blog. I know you have prayer warriors out there and God hears our prayers! Also, I just tuned in to “Victoria”, which I watched last season and didn’t realize it was in the second season. You would probably enjoy it! Take care! xo

  52. I’m catching up today, as yesterday was a rather busy one. I can’t say much that hasn’t already been said, but, you definitely keep things real and I appreciate that so, so much! I hope you’re feeling better today. Back pain is no fun! Please continue being you! You’re authentic and you make us feel like we really know you. 
    I love the show, This is Us, but the season finale is on after the Super Bowl, and I already have my box of tissues ready as I know this is going to be an emotional finale. #imacrybaby  I watch reruns of Gilmore Girls, and Parenthood on Netflix. I wish I knew of something new to watch, but I don’t. 
    Again, I hope you’re feeling better, and find a solution. 

  53. Are you familiar with the jack Rogers brand of sandals ? I love all the different colors for summer. I was also wondering your feeling so on the Lilly Pulitzer brand. Do you think it’s too predictable or too young for the over 40? I do own some tropical prints 

    1. Yes, I like them but I feel like when I tried them in the past they sat up too high on my foot or something. I can’t remember why I couldn’t wear them. As far as Lilly P, I think it’s a regional thing. 🙂 There is a store up here but I rarely see anyone wearing it. It’s way more popular in the south or in wealthy pockets of our area closer to the city. For me personally, it just doesn’t really suit my style aesthetic, but I can definitely appreciate it on those who like it. If you like it, go for it! 🙂

  54. Jolynne, I am not sure if I am going to answer your question about your back, but as a nurse I am going to try. First AGE…..UGH, yes, there come a time in your life (well at least mine), when after a few incidents, I was like WHAT IS GOING ON??? I am 51 and have always power walked, gone to the gym etc….Well a few years ago, I was building a stream in our back yard and those 40-50 pound long rocks wacked my back out for the longest time. It was brutal. Then came the balance issue. I have been a single mom for 15 years, but beside that, I am one of those women who thinks they can do anything. I love getting on my ladder and doing stuff. Clean the gutters, fix something, chainsaw a branch. Well, one time the ladder fell over. No biggie, just sore for a day or so. Then a year later, I am walking down my stairs and “bam:, down I go and those rails did not stop me. So, clearly, I have noticed ‘with age’, my balance is not what it used to be, and my whole body is just different with the things I do. I lay on a heating pad all of the time. But to keep my comment from going on forever, I will tell you what has worked. When I stretch in the morning, I do a lot better in the day!! My father passed away 2 months ago from complications of end stage dementia. Well, my mom and I took care of daddy in their home. Sadly, as his ability to do anything gradually faded, he became total care. We had our caregivers come into the house, but before I did any lifting, pushing pulling or anythingm, I put on my back belt that I got at Target. Someone may be out there laughing, but my mother broke her back and her doctor did not diagnose her for 12 weeks. As a result she has no feeling from the knee down and her back pain can be brutal. So, I am taking measures now, so at 60 or 70, I have good back health. You may want to ask your doctor for a mild muscle relaxer. On occassion, when I was really getting daddy up, it did a number on my back. So there were weeks where I took one right before bed because I just over did it and it really loosened up my muscles overnight as I was sleeping. Since he has passed away, mom and I made a comment on how our backs seem to be doing better. I went to work out last night and I am not sure which machine I may have overdone it on, but I woke up with a tight muscle right in the middle of my back. Sometimes, I will use the Icy Hot patches on my back (well, actually, I live with those things on). But all day I have been wearing my back thing because it just has been holding me in a bit. Think of an ace wrap that you would put on your childs sprained wrist or ankle. As we age, we need to be more aware of our limitations and just ADJUST. I can still do what I could when I was 20 or 30, but I have to take a little more time and thought so I don’t really hurt my back one day like my mom did, or lose my balance and fall. I hope that helps. I feel for you with your back pain. It is no fun! I don’t think that anyone who complains about their life is a whiner. We all have our own struggles and it is nice to get situations off of our chest from time to time or listen to someone else and in some sort of way I think “gee, I am not the only one with these issues”. So, it certainly does not bother me. I hope your back gets to feeling better.

    1. Wow, that is all very interesting. I don’t even know what I did to cause this, although I did work out the day before, but my trainer is pretty good about knowing just how far to push me. That said, I do think I need more stretching, on a regular basis. It is evident in how I keep “tweaking” these muscles in different parts of my body. Thanks for all your input.

  55. Some people, especially larger chested women, just are not meant to run any more by a certain age. Reduce to walking with hand weights for a good workout (we have hills in our neighborhood, so we get that extra effort in our walks) and you will take the bouncing stress off your spine. (Coming from a couple of decades of experience on you with a top heavy build and back problems, too.) Also, when I’ve had back problems, I go to a chiropractor. The new school chiro doesn’t use the harsh adjusments of the old school. I’ve had great results walking into the chiro’s office all bent over and walking out standing straight, once again. Just passing along my successes in back problems.

  56. Love your blog!  Try the series “Grace and Frankie” on Netflix!!  It’s an awesome show and great to binge watch! 

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