64!ANOTHER YEAR……

July 29, 2024 91 Comments

Lucky I am to see another BIRTHDAY COME AND GO…………

I was offered an appointment regarding my health on MY BIRTHDAY being the most recent appointment available!

I TOOK IT!

I then had lunch with an old friend who lives close but we do not see each other often, her birthday was the day before mine so we met up at TRUE FOODS in Walnut Creek close to my medical building!Then I had to head home to take a nap to be able to go out that night!

Never mind I had been emailed the results of my echocardiogram and was NOT HAPPY!

NOT THE GIFT I HAD HOPED FOR but I knew that as that is why I asked for the test to be done in the first place.Still waiting to hear from the cardiologist!He is on vacation.

As far as THE EYE EPISODES THEY ARE GONE!

THE BOTOX SHOTS IN MY SKULL DID THE TRICK!

IT HAS BEEN TWO MONTHS SINCE I HAD ONE!

WHAT WILL I TALK ABOUT HERE ON THE BLOGGY NOW?!!

THE CURVED NECK IS BEING ATTACKED BY A CERVICAL SPINE DOCTOR AND I FEEL IMPROVEMENT IN THE TENSION IT HAD CREATED!

Finally,THE ATLAS IS HOLDING!

I SHOULD BE BOUNCING OFF THE WALLS after NINE YEARS of telling you all about my ailments!

My Birthday morning started out this way……………

That is a GLUTEN FREE cinnamon roll that has to be purchased at a special bakery!

Guess who did that without me knowing!

I LOVE THE CANDLE!

That is my morning LATTE that contains TWO TABLESPOONS of coffee and the rest is Almond Milk.

I never finish it!

YELLOW ROSES FROM MY SISTER IN LAW!

This gift was suppose to ARRIVE LATE but instead got here on JULY 22!

I had told her NO GIFTS I NEED NOTHING!

HER ANSWER, ” BUT ITS PERFECT!”

OH WELL, THEN SEND AWAY!I SAID.

I ROARED WITH A BIG SMILE AS I OPENED THE BOXES!

THIS FRIEND IS AN INFLUENCER AND IS GIFTED MANY MAKE UP PRODUCTS AND OTHER ITEMS!

MOST OF THE BOXES CONTAINED LIPSTICKS, but ONE BOX WAS EMPTY!

NOT EVERY DAY YOU GET TEN ESTEE LAUDER BRAND NEW LIPSTICKS!

SHE SHALL REMAIN NAMELESS, but a few of YOU will know who THE GRAND DAME of COSMETICS might be!I ADORE HER and WISH I HAD HALF HER ENERGY!SHE IS 20 YEARS OLDER THAN ME!

A few GIFTS came VIA TEXT MESSAGE!

ABOVE AND BELOW ARE WINNERS!

CAMI and NICHOLAS (my son) brought me a GIFT FROM THEIR GARDEN!

Home grown veggies and garlic Cami braided for me to hang in my kitchen!

Then later on our departure from the restaurant; I was GIFTED TIGRE!

A ONE YEAR OLD BARN CAT WITH PERSONALITY GALORE!

A VERY AFFECTIONATE CAT who was born on their property and needed a loving home!

Betty the dog has accepted TIGRE well…………

THEODORE is taking his time, but I DO HAVE HOPE.

Theodore is showing who is BOSS!

THE FIRST ENCOUNTER.

THE YELLOW COAT IS ME!

I have THEODORE on the right side of this photo!

THE TWO OF US BEFORE HEADING OUT TO DINNER……

Needless, to say I have some WONDERFUL FRIENDS and FAMILY!There is a video on my instagram that shows the GIFT of TIGRE being placed in my lap.Look for the car I think its about 4 photos back.You can view instagram at the bottom of the BLOG if you go back to the HOME PAGE.Look up top for HOME.

TAP THAT and SCROLL DOWNWARDS!

I have changed my INSTAGRAM name to Contessa and her Caftans due to the fact we no longer have a pig!If you are following me already no need to PANIC it just rolls over!I am trying to post less and less but its hard after 14 years!!CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT?I CAN’T…………

I have cancelled all my magazine subscriptions as I found them so boring with way too many ADS.

When one is not remodeling a house or needing ideas for decor there is not much offered to wet my appetite.I need a magazine that shows homes that are lived in and loved by people and animals!There is a BITISH magazine that ticks those boxes called HOMES AND ANTIQUES which I get tossed my way every few months!LUCKY ME!

I haven’t read a BOOK in months nor seen a GREAT MOVIE or TV SHOW as of late to recommend.

I have NOT been shopping nor OUT and ABOUT much this summer.

What I can say is I have been RESTING A LOT…………too much.

But better I did that while waiting to see if the shots worked and how I would react.

THANKS for POPPING IN and do SHARE anything that crosses your mind in the COMMENTS BELOW!

YOU ARE MY PEOPLE AND I LOVE HEARING FROM ALL of YOU……………

THIS IS 64 as of JULY 22,2024

I have noticed drier skin and its becoming crepe………..

The moles on thy skin are getting BIGGER!

The eyebrows are fading a bit too rapidly for my liking!

My mustache area is FINALLY FREE OF HAIR after all these years but now holds lines and cervices going every which way!

THE double CHIN is MORE prominent.

Sometimes MY KNEE creaks when I get off a chair!

Hair has CEASED growing in my ARMPITS!

BUT OTHER THAN THAT I AM GOOD TO GO but only at a snail pace………………..

IT BEATS THE ALTERNATIVE and BESIDES YOU CAN TAKE IN MORE BEAUTY GOING SLOW!

I AM GOING TO HAVE A GREAT YEAR AND I HOPE YOU WILL TOO!

XXX

CONTESSA

91 Comments

Leave your reply.

Caroline
· Reply

August 26, 2024 at 5:04 PM

I am sure if we met up we would feel like it was just yesterday we met up. Both Jeff & I send our love. I have him read your blog posts when he is around. Today he did too. Thanks for always sharing your stories and life up dates. Praises for 9 years and Prayers for more. Love you EBeth!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 27, 2024 at 11:11 AM
  
  OH MY GOODNESS WHAT A WONDERFUL LIFT YOU GAVE ME TODAY!LONG TIME NO HEAR!MY LIFE STORIES are slowing. down……………but I will find something to talk about I am sure!Do I DARE TOUCH ON THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION?!!!
  WE SHALL SEE…………I may not be able to HOLD BACK but I’m practicing NOW!
  So, I saw the CARDIOLOGIST yesterday………….UGH.
  I will keep trotting along as if ALL IS WELL.
  THANK YOU for writing here………..WHAT A GREAT SURPRISE!
  XOXO
Ellie's friend
· Reply

August 5, 2024 at 1:55 PM

Hi Elizabeth,

Happy belated birthday! What a wonderful photo of you and the Italian! Buon compleanno!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 27, 2024 at 11:12 AM
  
  MANY THANKS ELLIE’s BUDDY!
  XXX
Carolyn Bea Blodget
· Reply

August 3, 2024 at 9:16 AM

Happy Birthday dear Contessa, enjoy every moment!
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 4, 2024 at 11:15 AM
  
  Thank You!
  Hoping for a GOOD YEAR!
  XXX
Hilda Smith
· Reply

August 2, 2024 at 1:46 PM

So delighted that some of your health problems are improving. Love your new kitty.
Hope this comment works. Have been trying to leave one yesterday xxx
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 4, 2024 at 11:18 AM
  
  Sorry HILDA!
  Don’t worry I know you are there far away but you are out there reading!Sometimes these computers areNot reliable!I can’t comment on a few blogs which drives me crazy but I have to let it go!Happy August!
  Xxx
Janis Ottanelli
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 11:43 PM

Hi Elizabeth, it sounds and looks like you had a very eventful & wonderful birthday. You look gorgeous in all your photos. What lovely gifts you received, especially Tigre.
I am pleased that you no longer have any eye episodes and that your neck seems fine. Sorry to hear that you aren’t happy with your cardiology results though.
My face is getting so many wrinkles, and my eyebrows are so sparse of hair that I have to pencil them in. I suppose I should complain after all I have just turned 69 years old ? The years have flown by so quickly.
I shared my birthday with Archie the daschund, Shaka the cat, Rosie, Violet & Lily the rabbits and many lovely chickens who’s names I have forgotten. They are all so delightful. My daughter Melissa, son-in-law and my 3 grandchildren are all holidaying in France, so I have come to take care of all their pets.
Melissa and the children took me out for a lovely lunch a couple of days before they left.
My Italian is at home looking after our 16 year old cat, so we will have a belated celebration on my return.
Look after yourself and enjoy the new addition to the family.
Lots of love xx?xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:59 AM
  
  HELLO JANIS!
  
  I had made a mental note of your birthday and missed it!I was so mad at myself as it was easy to recall for me .A DAY BEFORE MY MOTHERS BIRTHDAY!She was the 31st.
  She would have been 99 years old yesterday if she were still here……….
  It sound to me like you are in HEAVEN amongst those BEASTIES!I went out to lunch yesterday and the waiter was a young man and there was something different about him. I ask questions and discovered he was born here in the USA but grew up in NICE, FRANCE!It made so much sense to me……….
  How lucky you are to have THREE GRANDCHILDREN.
  LETS HAVE A GOOD YEAR!
  I will know more about my heart next week I hope………..XXX
Judith
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 7:18 PM

Sounds like you had a beautiful birthday – so happy to hear that and see the photos! You and the Italian look simply splendid and all spiffed up! I love that you-know-who sent the lipstick – you should do another feature on her. The fresh produce in the “drawer” was such a nice gift; and the new kitty is ADORABLE. Orange male cats are supposed to be the absolute winners in the kitty personality contest. I had one once. His name was Victor. We said he was Jewish, because he refused to eat pork. If I get another kitty, it will be an orange male. Currently thinking of a dog, though! Keep feeling better and fighting the good fight, because it’s worth it. I highly recommend marine collagen as a supplement – this will help with minor joint aches and pains, and help with wrinkles as well. I have taken it for ten years, and my face looks better now than when I started taking it. Let’s talk soon.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 9:04 AM
  
  JUDITH………I owe you a phone call!
  Victor and NO PORK!That is HYSTERICAL TO ME!Every cat eats meat!Or at least mine do!
  I will CALL…………I have had a lot on my plate and have family coming from Italy but I WILL CALL next couple of days!
  Send me a photo of your marine collagen!PLEASE!
  XXX
CINDY
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 2:52 PM

Happy Very Belated Birthday Eliz. You are looking fabulous and I am so happy you got a new kitty! I am sure Theodore is not overly thrilled! Furrie tolerates Scout but they are not buddies. We need to catch up!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 9:06 AM
  
  WE DO…………
  TIGRE understands the pecking order!
  Progress is under way!
  XXX
Kathie Truitt
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 9:22 AM

Happy Birthday. Mine was the day after yours and just turned 62!
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 10:01 AM
  
  You YOUNG THING!
  Happy happy birthday year. I wish you all good health and happiness.
  XXX
Jayne
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 6:43 AM

a-humm
a-humm
Happy Birthday to YOU
Happy Birthday to YOUUU
Ha-ppp-y Birrrrrr-tttttth-day deeeeerrrrrrr sweet Con-teeee-ss-aaaaaaa
Ha-ap-pppppp-yyy Birttttt-hhh day to-oo-oo-OOO-oo … YYYYOU!!!!!!!
… with many, many more to come !
I must say that I am so very glad to read that you are feeling better !
I so adore reading along and being a little part of your blog world, thank you for treating us to your humor and grace. Keep well.
Jayne (Canada)
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 10:07 AM
  
  Jayne!
  Thank you for your merry little song! I know the beat!!
  Thank you for being here. It’s been so much fun writing this blog over the years! As it started out as a place for me to sell my wares from my Antiques store it soon became a blog of my life basically! and growing older, and following the advanced style crowd! it’s been such a good way to meet people with certain similarities and passions and hobbies! i’m sure happy I started it and I’m still here 14 or 15 years later!!
  Thank You!
  Xxx
Stephanie D
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 5:48 AM

Belated Birthday wishes, Elizabeth!
As soon as I saw the lipstick box, I knew exactly who had gifted them. That darling Sandra has a knack for beauty, no doubt about it.
And Tigre!?! He is such a love and seems to already adore you. The perfect addition to your family…hopefully Theodore will agree soon!
Yes, at almost 68 my body hair is being replaced by wrinkles too. Interesting how that happens.
Thrilled to hear that the eye episodes are gone for now…wonderful news!! Happy Summer…
xx
Stephanie
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 10:11 AM
  
  Dear Stephanie, so nice to hear from you! I’m glad somebody else knows what I’m talking about. I blame the Sleep Apnea Machine for all the wrinkles on the upper lip!!! And I do love that thing I get such a deep sleep now!
  Tigre is a joy, smart and learns well. I have hope that he and Theodore will be best buds soon.
  Do tell me when your birthday is I think it’s in August if I remember right let me know!
  Xxx
  - Stephanie D
    · Reply
    
    August 1, 2024 at 4:49 PM
    
    My birthday isn’t until the end of November…the 29th to be exact. Can you imagine, I’m attending my 50 year HS reunion in September? Oy vay…where did the time go?
Sbchica
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 4:27 AM

Good morning, Contessa. I am trying to find the photo of the squash blossoms the Italian planted this year. I cannot find it in the archives. I wanted to show it to our good friend who makes us the most wonderful dish for us using the blossoms. Thank you and enjoy your day!
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 7:41 AM
  
  I don’t think I posted it this year. There was a blog post many years ago with me and a magazine called where women cook that had them, but I bet those pictures are gone because when you go back, the pictures are not saved. I’ll see if I can take a picture and send it to you in the next few days.
  Xxx
Sbchica
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 4:24 AM

Good morning! I am trying to find the photo of the squash bloss
Lorna
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 2:55 AM

Elizabeth, I am so happy your episodes have gone and that you seem to be feeling better. I agree that growing older is better than the alternative!! But it’s hard to accept all the changes. My knees have been creaking for a number of years already and I have had shoulder problems since 2019. I have finally learnt to rest and ask for help when carrying heavy objects (18 year olds are perfect for that :)) Physiotherapy and intensive massages have helped. The last lady I saw told me that my ribcage is displaced to the left- no wonder I have been having pain on the left side of my body since 2021!! Anyway, enough about me.

I really love seeing your daily posts in IG. I wish I could remember to share something everyday. And maybe show my face every now and then. But I’m shy. I love following women who are my age or older on IG. I find them to be a breath of fresh air. My favourites are: Simona Bertolotto (@sissiottostyle); Jordan Trent (@theelegantstylist) and Denise Boomkens (@and.bloom). The first is Italian, the second British and the third is Dutch. You might enjoy them too.

Hope that Theodore is learning to get along with Tigre. Both are adorable and look very much alike.

I might be moving my blog to Substack. If I do, I’ll let you know and send you the link so you can subscribe. Substack does everything for you automatically, so I don’t have to fiddle with creating a subscription option on my current blog. Anyway, we’ll see. I don’t seem to have much to say these days but I bought a new laptop and I think I need to put it to good use 🙂
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 7:50 AM
  
  Lorna!
  You need a chiropractor for your rib cage I guarantee it will not hurt and they can move it back in place second thank you so much for giving me those women’s Instagram pages . I need some new people to follow. I’m not getting my followers as I think we discussed here once, just get all the reels that mean nothing to me for the most part. Three. I know sub stack. I know a couple people that write on there that would be great. I look forward to that. A new computer what fun and frustration I’m sure I can’t imagine changing my old Apple one which probably needs to be changed, but I’m not willing to do it. I have an iPad. I never use because I can’t figure out how to work it!! You will be happy to know Theodore is on my lap this morning and Tigre slept on my lap the whole night! fell off the bed at one point, which made Betty wake up and jump, but everybody got back into their beds and asleep, except me who lied there for two hours awake! then at 7 AM the phone rings. I’m now on some Medicare list and getting these random calls early in the morning when I can finally sleep!
  Hugs to you,
  Xxx
Pipistrello
· Reply

July 31, 2024 at 1:20 AM

Happiest of Birthdays to you, dearest Contessa! It looks like you had a gladbag of delights kind of day. Very good news on your migraine front, so congratulations there, too.

Let me tell you, I think you look a fabulous 64! I rather like to think that these little fraying-at-the-seams issues just add to our charm and loveability 🙂 Anyways, we can’t see them at the other end of ye olde blogge!

On a fun note, we are in England at the moment, and on our first day we bumped into Charles & Cams! They were all gussied up in their Sunday best with crowns and tiaras and in a golden coach and I gave them a hearty wave, but I don’t think they saw me as they didn’t wave back, hahahah!!

Baci Bella, xxx
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 7:55 AM
  
  Pipistrello!
  Good day to you and you’re Italian husband! Thank you so much for the compliments and my gosh you saw the king and queen on their way to some event. I can’t imagine why they didn’t wave back to you. Were you in a tree clinging to a branch!Thrilled you got the travel bug and escaped your big island of Australia let’s chat when you get home!
  Hugs to you and happy travels
  Xxx
Robin
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 10:40 PM

So happy you had a wonderful birthday!! Best gift of all- box of homegrown veg and Tigre from Nicholas and Cami.
You look radiant, and so does GP. So nice to hear you are feeling better!
Baci baci, R
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:00 AM
  
  Thank You Robin!
  Yes, it was pretty special, especially when he walked in with this old crate which I thought was an old drawer which I asked do I get the drawer too “yes, mother” was the answer! there were sunflowers that were brown in there and peppers and zucchini and other good things Swiss chard I made the first night all so delicious!
  Xxx
Trish Banner
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 9:44 PM

Happiest of Birthdays!!

So wonderful to see your notice that a new blog was up! You live such a layered and thoughtful adventure of a life. I have missed “sitting at your knee” to soak up your musings.

I’d say the cats are getting along fabulously… (considering they are cats and prefer to not have to share the limelight). Wondering if perhaps a perfectly sized strand of pearls needs to be made to adorn the neck of your recent new addition? Bigger than a bracelet but smaller than a choker… tied w a thin black velvet ribbon as a nod to Coco?

So lovely to see u celebrated for the special person u are. The home grown vegetables w braided garlic! Could there be a better gift? I can picture GP in your kitchen pulling cloves while he concocts something simple yet perfectly elegant/ elevated and Italian for his Contessa. You are so loved. Makes my heart happy to see it.

And to hell w the signs of getting older! Like u said, what a gift! It slows u down so u r better able to appreciate the beauty that surrounds u.

As for me… Lots of soul work, seeing things thru new eyes, going deeper and connecting the dots happening in my world since early summer. Exciting realizations and inspiration flowing through me. Looking forward to a phone call w u. More soon…

Can’t sign off without saying… SO EXCITED FOR OUR COUNTRY RIGHT NOW!!

All love,

Trish
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:13 AM
  
  Hello Trish Banner!
  How good it is to hear from you! The cats are making progress as of yesterday Theodore kind of invited Tigre to play and roll in the sun and it was so funny Tigre scooted closer to Theodore but they didn’t touch. Tigre is very smart. He has taken up residence on my grandmother’s stacking tables next to the sofa, he gets upset when Theodore is on my lap, but he gets me all night in bed !!! He has learned to go outside and come back home. I’m not worried that took no time whatsoever anyway I so look forward to our catch-up phone call. Let me know a good time to reach you and I look forward to hearing about what’s going on with you and how your garden grows!
  Looks like we might have a woman for a president. How refreshing would that be!! I feel your excitement. I couldn’t take any more of the orange man and his idiotic,rude, pump fisting behavior!
  He NEVER SMILES OR LAUGHS EVER!!You know how I feel about THAT!
  Big HUGS
  XXX
  Xx
lisa thomson
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 5:03 PM

Happy belated birthday, LA CONTESSA! Luckily I was able to extend my wishes only a day late on Instagram 🙂 YOu look amazing!! What a wonderful birthday you had. The braided garlic is lovely! TIGRE. Oh, my, what a sweetie!
Well, my whiskers are coming in more rapidly. I think it was Samantha on Sex and The City who said, “You pluck one, and ten more come to its funeral.” Well, that is the truth.
The lipstick! What a delightful gift. ENJOY all the spoils. You deserve every single good thing in life. Sending HUGS.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:17 AM
  
  I love it you pluck one and 10 more come to its funeral yeah that about says it, but they’ve stopped coming in my arm pits , but not on my chin maybe that’s a 70s chapter!!
  How is your book coming along? I look forward to that!
  Thank you for the birthday greetings you are so kind. Wish you live closer.
  Hugs
  Xxx
  - lisa thomson
    · Reply
    
    July 31, 2024 at 12:13 PM
    
    My book is finished the professional editing and I’ll be moving on to formatting very soon. It looks like a fall release. I’m very excited. The cover image is almost ready too. Still more to do but it’s getting close. I will definitely send you a copy, LA CONTESSA.
    I wish we lived closer, too. It would be so fun to get together and meet all your pets IRL.
Vikki
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 4:47 PM

Elizabeth what a lovely birthday!
Darlin’ you look fabulous!
A new fur baby too! Im so happy you are feeling better.
We will celebrate when we have lunch!
Vikki
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:19 AM
  
  Sounds like a plan Vikki if we can get you off Lake Tahoe! Sounds like you’ve had a wonderful summer! I look forward to seeing you soon!
  XXX
Heidi
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 4:14 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
I’m glad your birthday was such a success. And you have a new baby to cuddle, bet that was a happy surprise! He’s adorable.
What a relief that you have found some respite from the episodes. It’s about time.
I celebrated my daughter’s 35th bday a few days after yours and am having trouble believing that she could be that age, which makes me so, so much older!!
Enjoy your days,
Xo
Heidi
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:22 AM
  
  I saw that that your little tiny blonde reader had a birthday after mine on 35 yeah that’s a hard number to comprehend when you’re the parent I’m gonna have 35 and 37 come fall that’s even worse. Where did the time go? The good news is, though they will always be our children and you have such a wonderful relationship with your daughters. It’s a delight to see!
  Xoxo
LAbaba
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 1:56 PM

Ma Chere Contessa,
Happy Birthday?
You look fabulous!!
Despite serious health challenges you are doing grand..no kidding.
Great hubby and lovely family now includes Tigre.
Nicolas’s birthday gift a bounty of veggies is just what you want!
Life is good?
May the coming year bring improved health and more fun!
You’re an inspiration.
I have a new name on your blog, a new grandson, Henry and a new home.
The next chapter has already begun for me.
Still loving your blog so much!
New Baba
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:26 AM
  
  Congratulations to you,La Baba!
  I know Henry will keep you so happy and young and busy! A new home to design and layout sounds delightful to me projects galore! I look forward to hearing about the updates and I think I told you I had lunch with our dear friend Cindy recently and that was delightful! she seems to be doing well after her surgery.
  Hugs to you and Henry
  Xxx
Fran
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 10:54 AM

CIAO BELLISSIMA CONTESSA!

That is EXACTLY how I pictured you on your Birthday! Feeling Much Better – especially from your head and neck and HAPPY! I DO BELIEVE YOU WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY YEAR….MUCH BETTER THAN THE PREVIOUS ONE, ANYWAY!! TIGRE was the cherry on top!!
XX00
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:37 AM
  
  Thank You HEAD CHEERLEADER!
  We are in this together!
  You need to be feeling better too!There is HOPE especially when you have a furry four legged creature to make you smile and laugh. You need to get another CAT ASAP!!
  Xxx
Graciela
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 9:56 AM

Happy Birthday to you,

I love reading your blog, you bring joy to everyone.

I really believe God does not give us more than we can handle and YOU have handled it all with patience and grace, also writing with your heart.

I love my afternoon naps, it rejuvenates me.

As for books, I just read Leon Panetta’s biography, fascinating to see a man in politics lead with honor and integrity. As for movies, i was recommended to watch on PrimeVideo “Bad Faith”. Was not interested but I did because the person who recommended kept asking “have you seen it?” Well, I did and now I understand what is going on in “Our Nation”, I now understand, why Orangeball did nothing when the January 6 Insurrection was taking place and he watching on TV and doing absolutely NOTHING. WOW, I now understand.

In the meantime enjoy this beautiful day. Hoping you had a Fabulous Birthday.

God bless you and our Country.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 8:58 AM
  
  Graciela, you are very kind in telling me that I have dealt with it with patience and strength. I don’t know about that, but there wasn’t much I could do but keep hanging in there to find an answer which we seem to have found after NINE YEARS of research and doctors! it still doesn’t make much sense, but I’ll endure the injections because it’s giving me such a sense of security and calmness that I had lost. It takes a lot out of your body to go through one of those eye episodes, and you never come back with quite as much strength. Thank you for telling me you love my blog that keeps me going as I always have people who unsubscribe when I do a new post so far I’ve had seven people unsubscribe and it’s always sad to see how long they’ve been following and that I didn’t make them happy! It makes me second-guess myself what they were looking for here in the first place and why I couldn’t make them smile or laugh along the way but that’s OK. We have to change our routines every so often or we do get in a rut and I know people don’t like to hear about sickness.
  I am happy you watched that movie your friend recommended, and you now understand his motives!!
  He is NOT A GOOD HUMAN and He gives me lots of STRESS.His nephew has written a book now!I read the nieces book very eye opening.The orange disaster told his nephew to let his disabled son die since the child was terribly handicapped!
  The man has ZERO COMPASSION even for family!
  But I knew that from the start.
  It amazes me what people choose not to see!Its SCARY!
  Thank You for commenting and sharing!
  Hugs,hope you are doing well these days.
  Xxx
Loreen Attridge
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July 30, 2024 at 9:08 AM

Happy Birthday Elizabeth ??
You are beautiful! Inside and out??
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 9:01 AM
  
  Thank YOU!!
  I know those ?’s Were supposed to be hearts or flowers the emojis don’t work here for some odd reason!
  It was lovely meeting you earlier in the year!
  Xxx
Linda Henderson
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July 30, 2024 at 8:46 AM

Happy Birthday. Sounds like a nice one. Love your new Kitty Tigre. Our kitty next door is named Tigger. He visits us often. Same color as yours. Glad you are getting some relief and resting. I would suggest not stopping on books and movies. They keep you current.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 10:13 AM
  
  Dear Stephanie, so nice to hear from you! I’m glad somebody else knows what I’m talking about. I blame the Sleep Apnea Machine for all the wrinkles on the upper lip!!! And I do love that thing I get such a deep sleep now!
  Tigre is a joy, smart and learns well. I have hope that he and Theodore will be best buds soon.
  Do tell me when your birthday is I think it’s in August if I remember right let me know!
  Xxx
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 10:17 AM
  
  Thank you, Linda. You’re right books and movies keep us current, but I needed to step away from current worldwide situations. It’s just too much for me to take. I did watch the Céline Dion new documentary before she performed in Paris, and that was very heartwarming, and I could sympathize with her seizures, and I love the fact, she said in the documentary she would be back and there she was on the stage in front of the Eiffel Tower!!!
  That is one special lady!
  Xxx
Jeanine
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July 30, 2024 at 8:37 AM

Happy Birthday and many more! I turned 64 this year too:). I’m so glad that your eye episodes are gone and pray that they will stay away! There’s no better gift than a cat, and what a lucky fellow he is to have you!
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 3:36 PM
  
  Thank You Jeanine!
  Happy Birthday to You!
  Let’s make this a GREAT YEAR!
  I don’t feel 64 do you?
  Xxx
Da-Sebra Vintage
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July 30, 2024 at 8:22 AM

Hello Contessa, Wishing you the most wonderful of Birthdays! I started reading your post some years ago. You posted an article on Caftans (it was a joy to read) and I had just picked up a vintage 1980s, Oscar de la Renta caftan and I’ve been hooked every since. Your style and taste are impeccable.
In 2 months I will great year 69. I find yoga and water aerobics keeps this body moving, at a little slower pace, but still moving.. Getting older is not for the faint. I’m blessed and grateful.

Wishing you all the best in this journey of life, stay strong!

Da-Serba
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 3:44 PM
  
  Da-Serba,
  I need to go back and read that post on caftans again!I bet your Oscar de La Renta steals the show every time!There is NOTHING MORE VERSATILE than a caftan!Nor more comfortable to me! I remember I took a trip to Palm Springs and I packed nothing but Caftans from morning to night and it worked beautifully!
  Thank You for commenting!
  Xxx
- Marleah
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  August 13, 2024 at 8:23 PM
  
  Happy belated Elizabeth.
  I’m about a month behind on every single thing in life.
  Looks like a lovely birthday. One can never go wrong with a cat.
  I was pet sitting a 130 pig the other day. They’re incredibly smart, but you already know that.
  It’s a quick trip from 64 to 74.
  Happy to hear you’re doing better after the injections.
  Love from Mimi
Dawn
· Reply

July 30, 2024 at 7:27 AM

Dear Contessa, Happy Birthday! What a treat to usher in this birthday with improved health and with a new friend for Theodore! So many good things ahead for you, I ‘m sure. You continue to look as beautiful and radiant as ever. Cheers!
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 3:49 PM
  
  Dawn!!
  Hello!!!The health news is GREAT in the fact no more eye episodes!The HEART well we will see what can be done once the DOCTOR returns from vacation!
  The cats are making BIG PROGRESS!!
  Thanks for everything!
  Xxx
Daron Baylis-Duffield
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July 30, 2024 at 7:00 AM

Darling Elizabeth. What a joy to get your blog. I do so enjoy reading them. Happy Birthday I do hope someone sang you the Beatles song – When I’m 64?? You are definitely the sassiest of that age I know and I pray you go on being so. Nicholas and Cami’s box of goodies looked exactly the sort of present I love to receive I do hope you have a wonderful couple of dishes in which to use those gorgeous goodies. Tigre looks too adorable for words and I ‘m sure all the animals will settle down once the pecking order has been established.
And I am absolutely delighted that the Botox has worked and that you haven’t had a focal issues for a couple of months. When this kind of thing happens it is such a joy and I know All of us who have Botox for migraines such as me are going to be so thrilled for you.
Stay happy and healthy
All my love
- La Contessa
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  July 31, 2024 at 3:57 PM
  
  No one sang THAT SONG TO ME,but I do remember that so now that you mentioned it that put a big smile on my face. We were very young when that came out couldn’t have even imagined what 64 was like I’m gonna have to go find it and listen to it again I’m sassy, huh? I love that!!Today,I had lunch with a dear friend and she bought me a gift and the sales person said this is very dramatic!My friend said yes it’s for my very dramatic friend!It was a YELLOW DINNER PLATE DAHLIA which I would imagine you have the purple and magenta ones in your garden. Do you grow dahlias in South Africa?I hope you have recovered from your fall and are enjoying your winter months!
  My Best to You
  Xxx
Katherine
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July 30, 2024 at 6:08 AM

Hi Elizabeth,
Happy belated birthday, well maybe you celebrate for a month.
True Foods is a great restaurant, the food is always so good.
It’s never a moment of joy when you get the results from a procedure that is not good, even though it’s no surprise.
A huge YAY, the eye episodes are gone, what a relief. I hope they stay away.
How sweet, the gluten free cinnamon roll and candle. I bet I know who created that surprise for you.
Pretty yellow roses from your sister-in-law.
What a fun gift that your friend, the influencer sent you. You slap on a lipstick and it instantly brightens up your face and day.
What a beautiful gift of veggies that Cami and Nicholas brought you. Wow, a new kitty named “Tigre.”
Great picture of you and the Italian, beautiful scenery.
Well, we can’t stop the aging process can we? I guess it’s best to go with the flow, breath and chill. At the same time, it does take you back.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 4:03 PM
  
  Katherine,
  Hello Hello!
  Yes,True Foods is good food and wonderful fresh lemonades!Let’s meet up there next visit!
  Hope all is good with you and your side of the hill is much cooler than mine!
  ANY LUCK finding a new home?
  Xxx
rena.spain
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July 30, 2024 at 5:44 AM

already congratulated you on your birthday, but two is better than one. Once again, I wish you good health and a good attitude to every situation in life. Double chin? Fading eye brows, dry skin are all completely natural processes as we age and there is not much we can do about them. But making the most of every day is our job; contentment, humor, etc. make getting older easier. And you can really be happy with how you look, great, especially your beautiful hair, which I envy you for. Yes, going for a great year!
- La Contessa
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  July 31, 2024 at 4:14 PM
  
  Hola Rena!
  Yes the process of LIFE YOU SOUND LIKE MY ITALIAN!It’s all doable as we say but it’s good to vent once in awhile!Or I should say COMPARE NOTES!!
  My hair I’m sure you have heard that story but yes I have had thick hair most of my life.Lost over half my head of hair at age 56.I did manage to grow some back but it was definitely a shock for me!I would shed in the shower handfuls!!I started buying turbans back then as I didNOT know when it would stop!My son here got his aunts hair and I think maybe I need him to make me a hair piece with it!Beautiful curls.Bet I could share with you!
  Xxx
Valeri Johnson
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July 30, 2024 at 5:42 AM

Happy birthday! I love your blog and was so happy to read that you are finally free of your horrible eye episodes! You, your house and pets are delightful. I hope the rest of your year is even greater than you anticipate.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 4:17 PM
  
  Valeri so nice to hear from you!
  Thank You for the BIG COMPLIMENT!Appreciate the feedback as I am a bit outside the BOX!
  Let’s ALL have a GREAT YEAR!
  Xxx
Donna O'Klock
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July 30, 2024 at 5:40 AM

Happy, Happy Birthday! I am so happy to hear all of these good things about your improving health! Tigre is a beauty, and a lucky cat. Lovely family photos… Wishing you continued improving health… keep napping. Nothing better, is there?
XO Donna
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 4:21 PM
  
  Those naps are part of my life now I used to fight them, but I don’t anymore. I just do it and Betty,The dog beats me to the bed.She knows the routine!
  The Naps allows me to get through the dinner hour otherwise I don’t think I would make it. My naps are a bit too long. They average about two hours now down from three which is a good part of my afternoon, but I guess I’ve earned it and my body needs it so I don’t fight it.
  So nice to hear from you!
  I have not receiving your blog notifications anymore. Have you stopped blogging?
  Xxx
Maggie
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July 30, 2024 at 5:33 AM

Happy Birthday Elizabeth! I love the gift box from your son’s garden, those type of gifts are my favorite. The cat was an added bonus, similar colors to Theodore. Happy to hear your focal seizures are gone, and even better you solved it without medication. I hope your health continues to improve and that this birthday brings about positive surprises in your life. I know where your coming relative to the magazine subscriptions, they don’t hold the place in my downtime that they used to. I enjoy Pinterest or Instagram just as much, although with the summer here don’t really go on those sites as much as I do in the winter (Northern New York girl). As far as movies, same and I don’t even subscribe to cable tv anymore, YouTube is there for that, if I need it. I do enjoy looking in antique stores or popping in a good flea market and the summer is the perfect time for that. Enjoy the rest of your summer, your new fur buddy and continued good health. Cheers, Maggie
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 4:29 PM
  
  Maggie!
  Hi, yes, the medication I get for the eye episodes that are no longer are Botox.12 shots in my head and back! so no pill popping daily for that but a good dosage of venom goes into me to stop it. I have signed up for my second round in August. I am hoping I have an easier time the second go around as the first time I had a horrific two weeks start!
  I’m glad you can relate to me and my magazine subscriptions and the movies. It’s just too much now it’s just not as good as it once was.why is it older people like to complain about the olden days? I guess everything gets harder as we get older, but yet we kind of rebel by slowing down. It’s our way of dealing with it I suppose. Happy to hear you get out to flea markets and antique stores! Out west they’ve about completely disappeared!
  Xxx
Tara
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July 30, 2024 at 5:27 AM

Your son/wife….their box of vegetables for you………..the new classic American iconic painting awaiting.

ONLY YOU. The mole thing. Getting up this morning, felt something on side of my neck. Hmmm????? Decided to keep a finger on it and get to a mirror. Living rural, middle Georgia on acreage, tick or mole? Thankfully only a new-to-me mole !

1960 too. All you say is true. Wish my parents could come back and see me now. Having their combined facial wrinkles/creases. Would not trade this layer for anything.

Wonderful CAT story, congrats on the newest family member.

A delight botox working for you.

What a muffin your Italian got you…………….perfect candle too.

Bought a pair of ‘short’ caftans when ordering from India via Etsy. They are my UNIFORM. In the Grocery Store, turning my buggy into a new isle, about ran over a man, and he said, “You look so COOL”. Go team, Contessa ! It was a brutal middle Georgia summer day heat/humidity…….and he was RIGHT. Thank you for walking me into the CAFTAN life chapter. The long CAFTANS bought; I cut off, same length as the short. Need to get them to the seamstress in town…………….. And, ordered several pairs of the Birdies to wear with them. Not really, ordered MANY pairs, the SALE SALE SALE was that good !

Will text you………………we need a phone call…………………..new life chapter coming……………want your input…………………… it’s all good, yet big, and different……

Want to see your GARDEN, new SHOTS of it. And lots of shots with new KITTY !

Tell us what you did with that amazing box of produce. Big Hug………….XOT
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 5:55 PM
  
  I have used the veggies up with the exception I have a green pepper. I used the Swiss chard first washed it dried it put it in a frying pan with some olive oil and some olives and swished it around absolutely delicious!
  I need to see you in your caftan and your birdie shoes. Are you gonna send me some photos and what is this new and exciting next chapter? Please call or text!!!Compliments do Come when wearing CAFTANS!!!!
  Xoxo
Chris
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July 30, 2024 at 5:26 AM

Happy Birthday to you! You are such a wonderful woman who tells it like it is and also inspires us with your bravery and attitude in persevering and getting answers to your health issues!!
Your pets and your home and your sweet husband and family are so great to see on the blog!
Keep on inspiring us with all that you do!!
- La CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 5:58 PM
  
  Chris!
  Thank you for all the compliments. My family is a bit shy so I don’t post as many photos as I would like. I’m so happy you enjoy, what I have to share. I will keep taking pictures and posting until I can’t see the screen anymore and hopefully that is a few years away!!!
  Xxx
Cathy Sexton
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July 30, 2024 at 5:14 AM

Happy Birthday!! So glad you are feeling better.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 5:59 PM
  
  Thank you, Cathy!
  It’s about time I got a handle on everything that’s going on with me!
  I look at your jewelry every single day as I have it displayed in my bedroom and in my hallway on a manniquin!
  Xxx
Libby
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July 30, 2024 at 5:08 AM

Hi,
Belated greetings from Florida. You had a very busy birthday. Is your lunch restaurant new? Don’t think I remember it. And where did y’all go for dinner. What a surprise…to be handed a cat!?
I love my Parker, but I’m not allowed to pick him up. He’ll cuddle but on his terms. I miss my spaniels, but condo living and being on fifth floor makes it difficult. Although people are allowed small dogs. Our condo rules are very lenient.
I do a lot of gardening on the condo grounds. So I get my fix. Glad I don’t have to deal with big Orinda yard anymore. Also glad I don’t have as high utility bills.
As to aging and crepe skin…I’ve been using Gold Bond Crepe Corrector. I get from Amazon, but it’s at CVS. I wonder if that expensive stuff advertised on tv does any good. This stuff helps but not perfect. I’m in sun a lot. So sunscreen a must.
Your garden is so beautiful and I’m sure the extra rain this year helped.
Hoping we celebrate many more birthdays. My 80 is next month.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  July 31, 2024 at 6:13 PM
  
  Libby!
  True foods is outside Macy’s cosmetic doors to the right close to the parking lot structure. It’s been there for a few years now. It has excellent food and it’s all fresh and done by season so the menu changes. I do believe it’s a chain which started in Arizona.
  We went to Flemings, a steakhouse which is above the old Cost Plus in downtown Walnut Creek for dinner. It was very good and I had scallops!
  There are not too many restaurants on our side of the tunnel that check all our boxes so I wasn’t too excited, but I have to say our waiter was exceptional and the food was delicious!
  Xxx
Rita
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July 30, 2024 at 4:34 AM

Happy, happy birthday. Wishing you a wonderful year, full of good health and fun times. So glad the Botox worked. The box of vegetables looks delicious.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:13 AM
  
  Thanks RITA!
  Xxx
Barb
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July 30, 2024 at 4:29 AM

Happiest of 64 years to you! I will be 64 in a few short weeks. 1960 was a good year to have a baby girl! Don’t you find that being in your 60’s is even better than being in your 50’s? I am thankful for each day!
I adore your updates and all your adventures. I long for a cat but am not in a position to obtain a little darling right now. So watching you with your pets is a joy.
I hope your health is on the upward! Growing old is not for sissies!
Best, Barb
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:16 AM
  
  Barb we are lucky gals that is for sure!I think our generation was most fortunate to grow up when we did.
  Happy BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!
  Xxx
Frances
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July 30, 2024 at 4:24 AM

Happy Birthday, Contessa. Such a wonderful news gift of being free from the eye episodes! I’m older than you, Dear One (80 yo), and I offer you this: enjoy all that you have and never mind the wrinkles, sags, jowls and all the other non-life limiting manifestations of age. And if you really want to do it, get a face lift and not look like yourself.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:19 AM
  
  I hear you and I accept it ALL!
  Thank You for commenting Frances!
  We shall SEIZE EACH AND EVERY DAY!
  Xxx
fifi
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July 30, 2024 at 4:10 AM

Happy birthday and healthy birthday! You are still looking lovely. Loving the new kitty too! Lots of love to all. XOXOXO
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:22 AM
  
  Ciao Fifi!
  Yes I now have my own NOODLE!!Theo is jealous but has stopped hissing and does smell TIGRE!Tigre seems to know to STAND DOWN!!
  Betty monitors everyone!
  She is a HOOT!
  Love to you
  Xoxo
Amanda Riley
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July 30, 2024 at 1:47 AM

Happy birthday, it looks like uoj had a fantastic day! What wonderful presents, a new cat and fresh veggies! Both look wonderful.
Great news that the Botox is working for the eye episodes, fantastic news!
We’ve eventually got sone sun here in Wales, well for a few days….long may it last!xx
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:24 AM
  
  Sun in WALES!Stop everything and go outside and soak it up!
  Thanks for sending the CELION Dion clip on You Tube!
  What a stunning woman!
  Xxx
Sandra sallin
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July 29, 2024 at 10:19 PM

Happiest of birthdays ? I love that box of veggies. It looks like a painting. Fun city all of your critters. Yes, age does change us. Happy to hear the Botox worked. Just keep in writing and we’ll keep on enjoying.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:27 AM
  
  Thank You Sandra!
  The box of veggies has been devoured and I think you are right it does look like a painting!
  The lipsticks are sitting here in a silver wine coaster!Too pretty to put away!
  Thank YOU!
  Xoxo
Parnassus
· Reply

July 29, 2024 at 9:28 PM

Hello Contessa, You look absolutely great for your birthday, and seem to be getting younger and healthier! Happy Birthday, which I hope will be the start of an amazing year for you. I was thinking of you today when I was out for a walk and a very friendly black lab puppy seemed to be enamored of me. I told the owner that his puppy obviously wanted to go home with me!
–Jim
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  August 1, 2024 at 8:30 AM
  
  Jim hello!
  You must still be in the USA?
  Hope you have had an enjoyable trip!
  That puppy knows a good person when he saw you!
  Take Care
  Xxx