Just wanted to give you a quick update because I don’t want
any of you to worry about me. I am still at the palliative care center in
Paris. ALS is giving me a good fight right now. Unfortunately, I cannot hold my
neck up very well, I cannot swallow food, and my voice is very weak so I cannot
do the blog (Gracie is typing this for me) … Oh, and I shit my pants every day
this week. So, my world is a little rocked right now.
I hate 90% of the staff here because they are stupid
and if you don’t believe me, I invite you to spend a week here. Let’s see,
where should I start… Nurse Francoise told me to stop talking to her but I
explained to her that I was talking to my computer, so she decided to close my
feeding tube with the back of her clenched fist. That is how the week started and ended
with two psychiatrists trying to medicate me against my wishes.
#BitchesWithAnOunceOfAuthority
There are some nice nurses like Nurse Sophie, who kisses me every
time she leaves my room. Then there is the big nurse named Yolande… who we will
obviously love just because of her name. There is a 26-year-old nurse who is in
charge of 13 terminally ill patients at night and the funny thing is she has
more competence and better bedside manner than all of the old hag nurses put
together. I also like the chief of nurses, Nurse Bernadette.
BUT THAT’S IT. The rest are bitches. I will be leaving the
center this week to move into an apartment to see if I can gain my strength
back. All of my caregivers are back, because it turns out they just hated
Provence. My sister, Heather, and my mother will be here within a few hours. I’m
not promising anything but I will try for the next month to live the best life
that I can. Hopefully it will be filled with flowers, gardens, churches, chocolates, and
perfume because after all, it is springtime in Paris.
I will not be able to write the blog very much, if at all.
However, follow me on Instagram for daily updates because I will eek out enough
strength for that.
Follow me on Instagram HERE
The good news is that because my mother is here to help me,
the shop is still open. Not sure if I will be able to do the shop in the future
so shop til you drop.
Gracie is helping me finish the book and I promise it will be
finished by the end of April.
Thank you all for your well wishes, prayers, and love. I can
feel all of your warmth.
Ellie, continue to be strong. We need you. I need you. My love and prayers go out to you and Gracie, David, and all who care for you. You ARE the springtime in Paris! Love from NYC, Susan
ReplyDeleteYes! Ellie is the springtime in Paris!
DeleteEllie, Stay strong and focus on the positive, and healing. You are my breath of fresh air! Sending lots of love, light, prayers and strength from Santa Barbara.
DeleteAnswered prayers! You're hanging in there, even if you think it's just barely, you're still hanging and once you move out, you have your support staff back so the stress level can subside and you can gain a bit of strength.
ReplyDeleteThe people pulling for you are Legion.
You are one tough cookie, give'em hell! So glad your regular care givers are coming back.
ReplyDeleteJust love you, honey. You put all us whiners to shame. Loads of love to you and your darling family.
ReplyDeleteKeep going. We need you. I pray every night for you
ReplyDeleteSending my love and wishes for strength and healing. Be well, we all need you here. xx Valorie
ReplyDeleteI believe you about the staff. World wide problem unfortunately. Just keep the great ones close & call them only. Thank goodness for your family and great carers gathering in Paris... Sending you love and best wishes Den xxx
ReplyDeleteSending big love....xoxo
ReplyDeleteKeep fighting the fight, you have a lot to live for xxx
DeleteHey sunshine, get out of there ASAP - those old hags will kill a bitch if you let 'em.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy being back in Paris with your family and enjoy every beautiful thing life has on offer. I hope your two besties get over there and fill that feeding tube with vodka - thats actually what the palliative care team should be doing, that and good drugs. Oh and try not to shit yourself, but lets face it - it happens to the best of us.
Thinking of you from far away in sunny Australia. Love to you and your family. (I think you decided to call me Edith or Elsie) so signing out E xxx
Thanks so much for the update! Praying...
ReplyDeleteYou are so good at this...I want to read your book. You will probably never know how many lives you have affected....such perseverance, style, wit and honesty.
ReplyDeleteThank you....K
Please add to the list of good things filling your life right now the love and admiration of your many fans, followers and (lucky to actually know you) friends!
ReplyDeleteGlad you will be leaving that miserable place! Yay for good kids and family! So many people love and are praying for you AND the family. I'm proud of you. Your persevering spirit is an example to all! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
ReplyDeleteDearest Friend, I am glad to hear from you. All of your friends are concerned for your welfare and you can be sure that there are many prayers being said on your behalf. I am happy that your mother and sister are there to take care of you and give you fodder for your blog. My love to them, David and Gracie but, most of all, to you. Spring is always beautiful in France so Paris will give you many sights and sounds, as well as the scents of spring. You have love coming to you from friends around the world.
ReplyDeleteI am thrilled that you can feel the warmth, since there is a warmth tsunami coming to you, daily, from around the world. It is so exciting that you will be leaving the shithole and moving into an apartment! Help and support from your family and team sounds like a recipe for comfort , peace and laughter. I love your nurse that kisses you, when she leaves your room. She needs to train the losers!
ReplyDeleteLove, Peace, Hugs and Warmth....
Cathy
Ellie, you are an amazing, talented, outrageously funny, beautiful, gifted girl. I am so glad to hear from you! Gracie is a big sweetie for helping with the typing and helping you finish your book. I hope you find a beautiful apartment that is cosy and you will have all your human and animal companions surrounding you very soon.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you every day.
Love XOXO,
Sabrina in Port Townsend
I was EAGERLY waiting to hear from you by today! If not, I was trying to figure out a way to find out about how you were doing through somebody, somehow!!! YOU can beat this crisis my dear!! HANG IN THERE!!! Just like Susan said- WE NEED YOU. I NEED YOU!!!!!! YOU KNOW that ALL OF US are sending our best wishes, our love, AND PRAYERS for you!! Moving out of there is the VERY BEST idea and medication!! And I am DELIGHTED that your caretakers are back with you!! LOVE YOU BUNCHES/MISS YOU even more!!!! Gloria
ReplyDeleteEllie and Gracie...thank you for updating us! I've been thinking/praying for you and your family. So relieved to hear that your caregivers are back and that you'll soon be released from that "facility"!!!
ReplyDeleteSending much love to you all...Renee in Northern California
Glad your other care givers are back. I wish I could do something to help. You are in my thoughts. Your strength and attitude amaze me! Sending hugs.
ReplyDeleteWell Ellie, for shit sakes, you definitely are dealing with some crappy stuff! I am glad you are pissed off though-shitting your pants, my sister did too, she truly hated that the most. Said it was just degrading. Where's Yolanda? Is she coming to visit soon? You are both darling girls. I'm going back to your shop to look. I bought the Rosary & foot stool last December. I wish for you better days & gained strength. Sending love from Northern California.
ReplyDeleteEllie, thank you for the update. Good grief! Why do people become nurses when they have no decency or compassion?! I am so glad you will have your regular caregivers again! Keep on keeping on! Sending prayers and wishing you BIG blessings. Love from Marilyn in Lacey.
ReplyDeleteSending the best vibes and big hugs your way Ellie.🙏🏻❤️
ReplyDeleteThere's that witty and sparkling Ellie. So glad Gracie and David, your mom and sister are there to hold you up. You're the best of the best, Ellie. Back to regular programming is just around the corner. Feel the love, you precious girl.
ReplyDeleteGod I love ya gurl. A bit verklempt here. Still holding a space.
ReplyDeleteSorry to read about the nurses and wishing you strength courage and and stoicism in your journey.
ReplyDeletexx
I'm so glad your family will be there with you! Enjoy them. Just have Gracie update your blog with occasional direct quotes from your mother and we will be all good. Have been thinking a lot about you and am so glad your sense of humor and your spirit soldier on. I might have to reconsider my self inflicted Instagram ban to keep up with you. if there are any random things you want shipped to you from America that you would like to have, I will happily pack and ship and try to bang the guy I talked with at fed ex last time.
ReplyDeleteStephen: Yes! Team Gracie for Ellie (and us!), and IG for you. PS You should probably try to bang the UPS guy too, just in case...It's good to be prepared. xo
DeleteI've only just discovered your blog and spent many many hours reading it. Reading this post caused a tear in my eye and a sink in my heart. I don't know you but I know I will miss you if you can't write this anymore. You are stunning and I wish nothing but beauty, love and life for you.
ReplyDeleteWishing you strength - I am so moved by your story and your beautiful and feisty spirit that comes through in your writing. Don't let that incompetent staff take away your hope. - Jessica
ReplyDeleteEvery bite of chocolate I enjoy, every flower that I stop to admire, every scathing remark to every rotten person I encounter will be dedicated to you and your recovery. Give them hell, Ellie.
ReplyDelete"Sometimes a Soul will choose a particularly challenging lifetime in order to accelerate its spiritual progress, or as an act of love to help, guide, and nourish others who are also going through a similarly difficult lifetime. A hard life is not a punishment, but rather an opportunity."
ReplyDeleteYou, Ellie, are a teacher to many!
Don't you dare do anything but regain your strength! I don't know you personally, but I depend on your wit...someone with a brain and a sense of sarcasm...does it get any better!?
ReplyDeleteAnd seriously, who hates Provence?
ReplyDeleteEllie I am so glad that your family will be with you...they will be at your beck and call and they have "your back."
ReplyDeleteHope that you regain your strength and that you rally. Your staff know you well and should make a huge difference to the level of care that you need. Sending you a huge hug from Victoria BC.
Leslie
XO
My first reaction - she thinks enough of US that she spent precious strength letting us know what is going on! Ellie you are one amazing lady! To springtime in Paris and its restorative powers!
ReplyDeleteDenise
THRILLED YOU are ESCAPING............
ReplyDeleteEVEN MORE THRILLED TO HEAR ABOUT MAMA AND LA SISTER ARRIVING!!!
FINISHED OR NOT WE your READERS will LOVE THE BOOK!
YOU have given us SO VERY MUCH these past years on YOUR BLOG??
JUST KNOW YOU ARE LOVED by SO MANY..................embrace THE FAMILY...............SAVE your voice for GRACIE & DAVID.
YOU MY DEAR have been a hi-light of my LIFE!I have ENJOYED every POST every PHOTO every OBJECT and EVERY OPINION you SHARED with US!
THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU!!!!!!
XOXOXOOXOXOOXOXOXOOXOOXOXOXOXOOXOOXOOXOOOXOXOXXXXXOOOOXXXX
Perfectly stated, Contessa. Ellie, you are a treasure. Godspeed.
DeleteStrength and peace to you! It must be so terribly frustating to be so strong in mind and will but not able to make your body do what you need and want. I admire you so much for dealing with this and fighting so hard. You have brought us so much laughter and tears and beauty. I wish you lots of flowers and a beautiful Spring. So good to hear Gracie and your family are there and your caregivers, too. I will miss your blogposts but understand you need your strength to get better. Bon courage!
ReplyDeleteSending love and prayers to you , Gracie and David.💐💐💐
ReplyDeleteI am in awe of your honest, strength, wisdom, humor, and voice. We must find a cure for ALS. I will pray for you and everyone
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to you and I send you love.
ReplyDeleteKick ass Ellie! Sending love and light from Texas. Thanks for always making me laugh out loud. Your honesty about life is beyond refreshing.
ReplyDeleteEllie, This was sent to me by a friend today. There is a video also on the link. www.krem.comSPOKANE, Wash. – Researchers at Washington State University's College of Pharmacy Lab in Spokane have been experimenting with ways to battle ALS – a terminal degenerative disease for which there is currently no cure – and have come up with a unique discovery.
ReplyDeleteDr. Travis Denton of WSU Spokane said it is amazing to think of what they are attempting to accomplish here in Spokane.
“We could potentially be making the drug to give to people with ALS to stop their complications altogether,” he said.
The discovery by Denton's team could help with other diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and more.
“How excited should we be? Over the moon ecstatic,” Dr. Denton said.
“I can’t wait to go to work because I know I get to come in here and we’re potentially going to make a drug that can save so many people’s lives.”
The National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke sees something promising here, too. They have awarded Denton a $446,000 grant to boost his research.
The money is being used to make serious headway against these terrible diseases.
“It’s kind of like a flower or a fork in a road where Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s and ALS... they’re completely different diseases, but as it turns out they really do intersect at a pathway,” Dr. Denton said, “and we found that intersection, is what we hope.”
The diseases have something in common called “autophagic dysfunction.”
Dr. Denton said if you don’t have autophagy, it's like the housekeeper in your brain just stopped reporting to work.
With no housekeeper, the brain cells get “dirty." If they don’t get the care they need the whole system degenerates.
“So if we can turn that autophagy back on or hire more housekeepers to go in and clean up, not only will be clean again, it can actually be better,” he said.
Dr. Kenneth Hensley at the University of Toledo is collaborating with Dr. Denton and said he identified something capable of hiring those housekeepers.
Dr. Hensley found a molecule that works as a ‘wonder drug’ he said. They have given that molecule to a mouse with ALS and watched it reverse the disease.
“It is absolutely amazing,” Dr. Denton said.
Here is the hurdle – they do not yet know how to get that drug where it needs to go in humans, the brain.
The body protects the brain above all else, so it is hard to get a drug into the brain that the body will not attack like an invader.
So they have to mask it somehow, kind of like a Trojan Horse disguised to get past the brain’s gate.
“So it’s inside now we use some of the brain’s own enzymes to unmask it, so we open up the door to the horse and let the soldiers out and it attacks,” Dr. Denton said. "It works well.”
It is encouraging news in a string of diseases that have delivered so much darkness.
“I’m very, very confident in the science and I know that we will have a drug one day that will help people with ALS,” he said.
“I’m extremely confident in that fact.”
(© 2016 KREM)
THANKS, RICHIE FOR SHARING THIS GREAT NEWS.
DeleteThank you Richie! Let's hope and pray it happens soon. What a magnificent new development!!
DeleteSorry for the crappy care. Thank God for the good ones. Good vibes and prayers your way. Never stop fighting.
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie--
ReplyDeleteYay for the nice nurses!
Wish I could stand guard over those Nurse Ratchetts for you. Sending you love and strength. I have learned so much from you, love reading your words--your blog is the best shelter magazine! You are graceful, elegant, beautiful.
Love,
Susan
My dearest Ellie, you will regain your strength and you will make it through this rough patch because you just have to, you are too important to too many people so get with the program girl. I wish I was there to kick the nurses ass for you, what business do they have being anything but nice and kind to you?
ReplyDeleteI think about you every day and your strength gives me strength, you are my daily inspiration. I have no doubt that we will see each other in June and I will bring your favorite chocolates as long as you are stronger by then, so deal?
Love you to the moon and back my sweet, strong friend
Lourdes
I have a purring cat (named Peter) on me right now. I am sending all his warmth, comfort and purrs straight on to you. Lots of love --- xxoo Susan
ReplyDeleteLove and prayers to you and yours, Ellie.
ReplyDeleteYou are strong,beautiful,smart,funny,honest, loved and respected. We're all saying prayers for you and your family.i struggle to think of what would comfort or inspire you..just know we don't like those people at pallitive care either..so get out.Heal!xoxo nancy in texas
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie! I am so glad you are getting out of that place and into your own apartment! Just that alone will give you extra strength to focus on your health and not the palliative care environment! And with your family and reliable caregivers around, you will be in your element! We are sending you big hugs from Northern California! Xoxo
ReplyDeleteOh Ellie your strength of mind is insurmountable. We, your supporters around the world, are collectively wrapping our arms around you and willing life and love into you. You truly are inspirational! Best wishes, Pauline, Perth Western Australia.
ReplyDeleteEllie, you are an amazingly beautiful diamond, being polished to an eye-blindingly brilliant shine. You radiate love, you amazing gem, and not everyone can stand to be around that much light or heat. Keep on shining Ellie. I am sending you love and kisses, and a thousand eye rolls to the nurses who treat you like a plastic gem stone.
ReplyDeleteWhat an unfair thing it is when nurses are jerks. Thank goodness there are some angels, too. I am holding you close in my thoughts every single day, and I am far from alone in that. I wish you all of the flowers, gardens, churches, chocolate, and perfume you can stand,with a healing dose of Gracie and family thrown in. Be well, Ellie.
ReplyDeleteSo glad I am hearing from you! Many many kisses!
ReplyDeleteI am praying for you constantly. I just went for a long walk in the very mild spring sunshine and kept thinking - I hope Ellie is OK.... I am so relived you are getting back to an apartment, Best wishes Ana
ReplyDeleteEllie, I have read your blog constantly since I first heard of you via Faux Fuschia. I've never commented before because it's always seemed a bit self indulgent, but desperate times call for desperate measures! I think I've read all your blogs and many more than once. You are hilarious, tough, kind, honest, generous, outrageous, couragous and a ball of style. You've opened up a much bigger world for so many of us. I am visiting Paris for the first time in years in May and have carved out an itinerary based almost entirely on your back blogs. Thank you sharing your good, bad and ugly with me and all your other cyber friends. Thank you especially for introducing me to Rose 31. I cant imagine how I lived without it. Palliative care sounds like a cluster fuck. Get the hell out if there and keep fighting. We are all with you xx
ReplyDeleteI also found your blog through Faux Fuschia and have not commented before. I've read all of your posts and loved every single one of them. You are by far my favourite blogger. You make me laugh and cry in equal measures. I just wanted to say thank you for writing and I'm sending you healthy, healing vibes from the Caribbean. xxx
DeleteCluster Fuck seems to be the phrase of the month (my counselor just used it to describe my life right now). But, cluster fuck is almost a "nice" way to describe the terrible treatment at the care facility. Truly, Ellie, I bid you bon courage. I am thinking about you and praying for you daily.
DeleteBest,
Michelle from Santa Barbara
Ellie, I am so praying for your strength to return and for your support system.
ReplyDeleteWe're all praying for you and you are such a fighter - keep it up! Springtime in Paris ... A great time to get stronger and kick ass!
ReplyDeleteYou are amazing Ellie. You tell it like it is, which is always refreshing . I was relieved to hear that there are also some caring folks at that center. I know you will be happy to see your Mother and sister. There is a lot to be said about being surrounded by those who love you. Prayers from Texas, Janey
ReplyDeleteEllie...I am so very proud of you and how to continue to fight the horrid thing that may have taken control of your body but certainly not your mind. To find humor, keep you wit, and share it takes a ton of strength. I continue to pray for you and your caregivers daily...you are blessed to have such a tight circle around you. God bless you and keep you on this beginning of Holy Week. xx.dt
ReplyDeleteSending you love and strength. You and your family are just amazing. I think of you every day as I'm sure we all do. Please get stronger faster and get back to all the things that you enjoy. You are part of our lives, and we won't let go---prayers to you...a warrior in the fight and our hero. Big sweet hug and kisses darling Ellie. Wish I could do it in person.
ReplyDeleteBless you, dear Ellie. I know your family will provide great comfort, and I will follow you on instagram.
ReplyDeleteXO, Victoria
Ellie, you have an army of readers behind you. We are all praying. Love and a hug from Columbus, Ohio.
ReplyDeleteI'm awestruck by your strength! You have reserves that seem to be overflowing. We love you and are praying for miracles everyday!
ReplyDeleteThank you for being "you" - I enjoy your honesty. Words are so powerful, eh? They live on forever.
ReplyDeleteALS fucking sux.
XO
Can't wait for you to get away from those stupid nurses, thank god there are a couple of good ones. Really pulling for you right now Ellie, may your strength return to you, sending love to Paris just for you XO
ReplyDeleteSending you love and support. You are in our thoughts and prayers daily.
ReplyDeleteSending you hugs. Happy to read you are soon to be surrounded by people you can trust and who will care for you with you love. Bisous from Kiawah Cindy
ReplyDeleteI just signed up for Instagram as I can't bare the thought of missing anything you are up to. My thoughts, prayers and strength to you, dear Ellie. Hang in there-home will be good. glad the expert caregivers are back.
ReplyDeleteEllie,
ReplyDeleteKeep up your amazing spirits! I've been following and marveling at you for the last few years and know you can make it through this very rough patch. Hope you have your animal friends with you. They help so much. Thinking of you.
Aw Ellie, I'm sorry. Add me to the list of people sending huge positive vibes and best wishes. Hope to see you in Provence soon!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear from you again!! I worry about you when you're silent. Prayers for your strength to increase daily. You were an amazing young woman!!
ReplyDeleteTypo! Or it's that damned autocorrect! That's supposed to be "you're"! I.e. "You are"!
DeleteDon't know if I should tell you but this post makes me cry...love you Ellie..in a strange way cause you're not mine, not close to me , you don't even know me ..but I love you and want you to just live. Love from India.
ReplyDeleteEllie hang in there! Gracie you're a stellar girl to help your mama! Love, prayers and hugs
ReplyDeleteGood to hear you'll be sprung out of there and into an apt. ....I think you'll definitely do much better ..I wish I were your sister, I'd be there in a heartbeart ...bon courage! xoxo
ReplyDeleteI believe in Ellie❤️
ReplyDeleteWe are sending you good energy from Canada. Glad the caregivers are back. xoxo
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear from you and that you are still you!
ReplyDeleteSending prayers and strong wishes, you are a girl after my own heart!
ReplyDelete- a fellow interior designer, flower lover, garden worshiper, chocolate eater, perfume wearer, spring adorer, in Los Angeles. XX
So glad that some of the nurses are good, benevolent caregivers for you--I wish they all were, though. The fact that you can call them the B word proves that you have a lot of fight in you. Tell Gracie she's a real angel for typing your blog. All the best for a good transition to your getting-better place in the apartment. Thinking of you each day, Ellie!
ReplyDeletePenny from Ohio
Hang tight, sweet girl...we are all pulling for you! xo
ReplyDeletePrayers every night before I sleep....keep up the good fight!!
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie
ReplyDeleteMay the beauty of a Paris spring bring you peace and comfort! Your remarkable spirit, indomitable charm, smarts and wit have shared so much with so many. HSD is chock full of an abundant archive of posts that are due multiple readings. So while we will miss you on the blog - we will mine those riches, check Instagram, and eagerly await your upcoming book. I have throughly enjoyed both your Thanksgiving and Christmas books.
By opening up your life so bravely - you have created deep connections around the world. You hold out your hand and heart and bring us along - peaking into dark corners - shining your light on both beauty and ugliness. You have reminded us that there can be wonder and magnificence - in the midst of darkness, injustice and humbling hardships - beauty, meaning and love can still be found. Your depth of character and unflinching honesty are rare treasures.
I always learn so much from your wise, gritty observations on living a life filled with style and decorum. Sending love and prayers! Dorothy in Washington DC
P. s. Sorry if this posts twice - fumbling a little here - longtime follower - first time commenting.
I'm praying for you Ellie. I am happy that you have a few decent nurses, but don't let the "bastards" get you down...Hang tough...thinking of you every single day and sending HUGS your way!!
ReplyDeleteEllie, hold tightly on to all that matters in this world. If anybody can do it, it's you. So glad to hear that your caregivers are back on board. Things will improve. Know that your blog family cares deeply. Hugs, hugs and more hugs from Olivia.
ReplyDeletePlease keep your strength up and keep trying your best! Your blog is beautiful and every time I see a new post, I savour every moment reading it. I totally agree with your regarding nurses bedside manner, seriously just because you in hospital doesn't mean you should be treated like dirty dog, seriously they should have more respect! Lots of love and prayers
ReplyDeletePlease keep your strength up and keep trying your best! Your blog is beautiful and every time I see a new post, I savour every moment reading it. I totally agree with your regarding nurses bedside manner, seriously just because you in hospital doesn't mean you should be treated like dirty dog, seriously they should have more respect! Lots of love and prayers
ReplyDeleteKick Ass. You are in my thoughts and prayers day and night. Glad that you are leaving the hospital and that All of your trusted caretakers are back. So much better for mind and body to be independent. Sending love and prayers and triumph. xoxoxo Mary
ReplyDeleteEllie,
ReplyDeleteI found you indirectly through Instagram via Yolanda. I am sorry you are so very ill, ALS SUCKS! So glad you are leaving that facility, by defininition they are not fulfilling their role as care givers. I hope you will be taken better care of in your apartment and you will be able to regain enough strength to go home again. Prayers and best wishes!
Thank you so much for updating us. Sending virtual strength and support to you and your family. Hugs from Vancouver, Suz
ReplyDeleteThank you Ellie. You make my days brighter, make me laugh out loud and appreciate
ReplyDeletethe beauty that is life. My wish for you is peace and to know how special you are to us all.
Ellie, you are an inspiration to us all out here in the WWW. Sending love, good healing vibes, and prayers for strength. Also the same for Gracie. Thinking of you both. Vicki
ReplyDeleteI know you have endured many difficult times in your life. Most of us will never have to endure what you have had to in this life. I have felt your pain and have often asked why such pain exists, but also know God has permitted it. It maybe for us to realize we aren't in control and have to learn to rely entirely on Him for everything. Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your life with us. You have been an inspiration for showing how to find beauty in the darkest of days. You have given meaning to friendship as you have shared your friends with us. You have encouraged us with what love means as your husband has served you. You have been so real on the bond of mother and daughter. I will continue to pray that God will fold his loving arms around you so you will experience the ultimate love of a Father for His suffering child. I pray He will bring you healing and joy once more as you go through this time of recovery. Thank you again for what you have given us.
ReplyDeleteI have only been reading your blog for a very short time, but wish you all the strength.
ReplyDeleteYou are an amazing woman. Keep the faith
Your courage and tenacity inspires me to get off my lazy butt! Xo, Allegra
ReplyDeletePrayers and all good wishes to you. I join in with all who are asking for your miracle.
ReplyDeleteElle - NYC
Ellie, Ellie ... you have given me a few of my favorite things ... my chunky French cutting board, my elegant horn on a stand ... my Muscs Kublai Kahn (an expensive leap of faith because I totally trust your taste ... adore it!) ... But those are just The Things. I'm so grateful to have found you, Ellie. You have heard it all before, I know, but you truly are the essence of inspiration to every one of us who travel by your side and admire you and enjoy you and just love you to pieces! So happy that your mother and sister are with you, along with ALL of your caregivers (wonderful news!) and of course your Gracie and your David ... and a positive change of venue for sure. Rest, gather strength, and carry on ... we are all with you, every single day! Huge hugs all around ...
ReplyDeleteThe world is a richer place with you in it, a better and more beautiful place. Stay strong.
ReplyDeleteI am late to this particular party but have just read all of the beautiful responses and so am crying like a baby - happy tears as you deserve no less than all of this Love, my beautiful friend. Keep fighting the good fight, I know you will.
ReplyDeleteI love you so much,
Hbis
Ellie I am so proud, impressed and inspired! Sending you all of my love and saying prayers! 💗🙏🏼💗
ReplyDeleteAs much as I love your blog, I don't want you to stress any about it. (yours is the best of any I have ever followed). You inspire me and I pray all kinds of good things for you.
ReplyDeleteWhen my sister came to town when I had to have emergency surgery she was just the tough bitch I needed to be the gatekeeper to my health. Hope your mom and sis have their combat boots on. Get stronger, dearest, you are our diamond.
ReplyDeleteEllie, So glad you are escaping the incompetent nurses and will have your caregivers back in action, along with David & Gracie, plus reinforcements in you mother, sister and Heather. You will amaze us all, as always! Sending you lots of love and energy - I'm twirling for you a bit later than sunrise, having discovered that twirling first thing after jumping out of bed is maybe not such a good idea... Many thanks to Gracie for keeping us updated. : )
ReplyDeletexoxo, Catherine
I'm praying for you, Ellie! You are one tough cookie and will pull through this with your fighting spirit! Sending you love, hope, and healing vibes! I hope all of your pets are doing ok too. I'm sure they are missing you. I am very glad your Mother and sister are with you and your caregivers are back.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Lindsay
Ellie, you are always in my thought and prayers. You are truly something!!
ReplyDeletePraying for you Ellie. You are a wonderful strong woman.
ReplyDeleteSo happy to see a post from you today! Your comments about the nurses had me in stitches. Sending much love your way.
ReplyDeleteWhatever you need to do, you do. The universe is breathing for you.
ReplyDeleteI have found myself, in the past days, thinking of you. The tears start and over and over I pray. Please don't die Ellie. You are too full of life. We are sending you the all of the healing thoughts and energy we can muster. We love you.
ReplyDeleteWarmest thoughts Ellie. Love from Connecticut to you and yours, Virginia
ReplyDeleteThank GOD you are moving out of there and THANK YOU for posting! A lovely woman from Texas told me about your blog just last week and the first post I read was the Houston, We Have A Problem post...from there my addiction began, and I savor each one and try not to read too many at once so I will have more to read the next day...What a breath of fresh air you are, the sarcasm, the humor and authenticity...Just LOVE you!!! Most people I know don't even know who the hell Karl Lagerfeld or Agnes de la Fressange ARE...THANK you Ellie! Sending you good thoughts and grand bisou and as the French say...Bon Courage!!!! you ROCK!!!
ReplyDeleteEllie, you have my admiration, prayers, and support. Blessings to you and your family. Debby
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie, you have my admiration, support, and prayers. Blessings to you and your family. Debby
ReplyDeleteMy God. Yes, it seems you would be better off at home in Paris with your old health routine back. It's unbelievable how quickly going off it has changed your life.
ReplyDeleteYou have always done everything under the sun to be as healthy as possible and I bet it's the reason you're still here.
Praying that resuming your routine restores you.
Ellie- I have read your posts for over a year now and I have enjoyed every single one. I live in your beloved Santa Barbara and remember meeting you and your lovely Mom at your store. I am sending the most powerful get well wishes and am lighting candles at a Mount Carmel for you. Please stay strong in mind ... It will pull your body through. Xo MM
ReplyDeleteWe are all rooting for you! You are so brave and fabulous in all that you do...keep up the good fight. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
ReplyDeleteEllie, thinking of you. Did those SOBs make you take posts down? Fuck em. Truth hurts. How bout they pick up their game? God watch over you.
ReplyDeleteJo x
Ellie, Gracie, Thank you for the update! I am praying hard for you to continue the fight. Praying for strength, your getting out of the hell hole you are in right now and back with your valued caregivers, your Mom, Sister, David and Gracie. Sending Big Love from Texas and as you know us Texans do everything in a big way.
ReplyDeleteEllie,
ReplyDeleteI'm sending you Positive Thoughts, Heart warming PRAYERS, PEACE, LOVE, & RAYS OF SUNSHINE TO WRAP YOU IN COMFORT !!! Escape that dreadful place soon!!
Lot's of Love...Toni ❤ xo
Ellie,
ReplyDeleteI'm sending POSITIVE THOUGHTS, HEART WARMING PRAYERS, PEACE, LOVE, & RAYS OF SUNSHINE TO WRAP YOU IN COMFORT!!!
Escape that dreadful place soon!!
Lot's of Love,
Toni ❤ xo
Ellie,
ReplyDeleteI'm sending you Positive Thoughts, Heart warming PRAYERS, PEACE, LOVE, & RAYS OF SUNSHINE TO WRAP YOU IN COMFORT !!! Escape that dreadful place soon!!
Lot's of Love...Toni ❤ xo
I'm so sorry that things have been this way...hoping for daily improvements in your Paris apartment. Sending love and light, good thoughts of strength and peace!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear that you will be getting out of there. My thoughts are with you and love goes out to you.
ReplyDeleteEllie, every time I go to write to you, I think to myself that it has all been said and so beautifully by all your fans (those who feel so connected to you). Off course, that is your greatness, the ability to share a world with wit and intelligence, sans pity. The ability to draw one in and make them care as if they were taking every step along the way with you. I have great confidence in your amazing grit and spirit and send my heartfelt love across the miles.
ReplyDeleteEllie,
ReplyDelete"Illegitimi non Carborundum" - Latin - Translation....."Don't let the bastards get you down"
Good for you for getting the fuck out of there.
Having been a caregiver of my dear sweet mama who suffered from ALS, I can't imagine being surrounded by these people. What you need to do, is continue to push on, gain your strength, eat LOTS of calories, and feed your soul. You are a fighter and God willing, you will get better. I am praying for you!!!!
Sending you love from Australia Ellie.
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie, so good to hear that your Mom and sister have arrived. You have so much inner strength, it amazes me. Loving hugs and prayers surround you!
ReplyDeleteXoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Dearest Ellie
DeleteSo many prayers to you! This is my first time to leave you a message-- WHY---- cuz u have a trillion followers who follow and email you daily --showing you how much We all care. Funny how you have slipped into our hearts -- with never meeting---although we all feel we know you -David -and Gracie!!! We admire your courage-your strength -your honesty and most of all humor.
Ellie, each day is a blessing to your daughter and incredible husband and to all your followers. Thank you for sharing each and every part of your days. Good or bad.... You make us all reflect on our own lives. I pray for you that you have the strength to decide what is right for you and to know how many lives you have touched. You are my idol!
SHELLY -- your new best friend that you never met ��
Ellie Love ~ I would have a mishap in my lingerie if I had to endure nurses
Deleteof that ilk...Thankfully, there are a few "Angels" there among them to ease the incarceration. Soon you will be ensconced in your own abode with those you love and trust....then you will see the progress you will make. Come Resurrection Sunday, you will be filled with hope and strength, if our prayers
are answered and Springtime in Paris will break through the windows and refresh
you with greater joy than you can imagine. I'm not being Pollyanna, just believing that you are such a proud child, is very own and you have served Him and us so well with your spunk and example, that He cannot refuse to fill you with His particular peace and healing. Thank you and bless you Ellie, dear, for sharing your courage and "give em hell" attitude, as well as your grace and great sense of style and decorum with us. We love you and hold you up in prayer.
OMG starting right now i will stop complaining about everything and anything all of the time!
ReplyDeleteget well fast we miss you!
Pierre XXX
Have been a blog stalker for a few years now but can't hold back any longer. Love your blog, love your attitude and think of you often. Just finished your last book recommendation- fantastic, thank you! Rooting for you. And many, many prayers for you and your family from the Main Line (Philadelphia).
ReplyDeleteMuch ❤️, Stacy
I've never looked forward to reading anything as much as your blog. Always true to form full of your wisdom and wit. Never fails to bring a smile to my face! Hang in there girl we are all rooting for you!
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie,
ReplyDeleteI have read and reread your blog and have never commented on how much I admire your mental strength and class. Please know that there are many more silent Francophiles that send prayers and love to you with tears in their eyes. Stay mentally strong and feel those prayers and caring. You have given us so much that I hope you feel a bit of love coming back to you.
Warm hugs for you,
Maren
Dear Ellie, so glad to hear you haven't lost your snark! Do save your voice for more important things, but please ask Gracie to give us updates every few days so I don't have to sign up to Instagram to find out how you're doing.
ReplyDeleteSending the Florida sunshine and beautiful, blooming dogwoods to aid in your comfort. Gather your strength for yourself, foremost, but also the legions of us that love you.
xoxo
Joanne
Much love-Laura
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie, I have read and reread your Posts and enjoyed the French experience through your plucky approach to refusing to be a sick girl, instead a brave and classy lady. I know there are many silent readers that with with me send prayers and love for you with tears in thei eyes over your recent challenge. Keep your mental tenacity. As long as you have your mind you have your life. With affection from Maren in Illinois.
ReplyDeleteTODAY IS Ellie's BIRTHDAY!!!!
ReplyDeleteRemember last year and the BIRTHDAY CARDS I collected all coming back to ME!!!!
THIS YEAR JUST GOOD WISHES FLOATING ACROSS THE POND...................thrilled YOUR family is there to HELP you CELEBRATE.
XOXOXO
I think of you "every day" Ellie.....every day.....wow, I had those dreams of Provence however you have taught me alot about that....my heart feels more at ease with all your people surrounding you....not so much the mean nurses....wonder why women are so mean to each other, I have never understood that one bit.....LOVE YOU! XOXO
ReplyDeleteHang in there my friend. I HATE ALS!!! I don't want to lose another friend to that evilness. It is wonderful that your personality and soul still shine through with this fight! You are winning that part of the battle! You are truly amazing! xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteEllie- I read this is one of your favorite songs - Here's my gift to you for today, in case you haven't heard this version.
ReplyDeleteYou give me strength, may this give you a bit today...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWtSyorjXv4
Happy. Birthday, Ellie! Holding you in my heart all morning, then, La Contessa miraculously appears on my IG, new to me at IG, and I remember her name because we both read YOU. When I sent her a message, she said today was your birthday-- how wonderful that your Mama and sister are there to share the day, and HI to Gracie and David! See? your fans feel like part of your clan? Easter week-- you will be in my prayers continually. When you see the blossoms on the trees outside your window, just thnk that there are more people out here who love you than there are blossoms on that tree. You inspire us all. Much much love, AuntyBelle Cracker
ReplyDeleteI am a new to your blog but have already read most of your posts. Your writing is delicious and your love for design, art and cooking is infectious. I admire your strength and courage (yes, courage) to share your life with ALS. It will help so many. Much love and best wishes to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteEllie, please come home!!!!! We will love you and take care of you like no other... I imagine people in your town lining to volunteer and help you and your family in any possible way. Sending love and prayers your way dear!!
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday! I found a gorgeous set of circa 1900ish Chinese green and pink plates yesterday for $40 and I think it was definitely for your birthday. Had I not seen Heather's post about how you only sell things for the shop you've seen with your own eyes, I would have asked if you would like to sell them. Which is a good rule. Enjoy your family today!
ReplyDeletePrayers for you now. Thank God you have a sense of humor. Sending love.
ReplyDeleteDear Ellie,
ReplyDeleteThinking of you so much this week here in Provence 💜💜💜💜 We had a visit in a dream the other night and you were wearing strappy heels
Xo
M
Health and hugs!
ReplyDeleteDearest Ellie and family! Wishing you all strength everyday and lots of sunshine! Your blog and Instagram has really touched me in many ways. It's your humor of it all that brings me to laugh to the point where I chuckle during the day about a particular thing you wrote ! Ellie you have so much love around .. How lucky are you darling !!
ReplyDeleteThanks for keeping us updated ... And a big thanks to your family for showing us here what a real family is ... One that supports one another thru it all! Xoxox Samantha ( all the way from the German alps)