http://www.autoshop101.com/forms/h63.pdf
I am just posting this for people wondering how the PCV valve works. It provides good basic info about the system (even if it is Toyota).
After reading this something came to my attention
"A plugged crankcase breather hose may cause the engine to consume oil because of the increased level of crankcase vacuum."
It doesn't go into detail as to why but wondering if the check valve by the breather hose is really necessary?
I highly recommend the check valve (with a catch can!) by the PCV valve as the PCV valve tend to leak and cause most of the symptoms that you have listed.
Also if you haven't figured it out by the article, you still need a working PCV valve in the car (or should have one)