November Novelties!

November 18, 2025 59 Comments

As I type this it is raining outside in Northern California.The days are going by faster and faster and here we are once AGAIN thinking about the HOLIDAY SCENES!I do not know what we are doing for THANKS GIVING it all DEPENDS on that long haired SON of mine!The Italian tells me we will have an ANSWER TODAY!

Talk about SCENES look at these TWO with their own room under the staircase!

What a BRILLIANT IDEA!

This is a scene from FIFI’s latest book …………VISIONS OF CHRISTMAS.

You may want to send this to someone on your list who would appreciate the decor and photos?

ALL THE PROCEEDS for this book will go to ANIMAL SHELTERS/RESCUES through out the UNITED STATES!

THINK OF ALL THOSES FURRY BEASTIES THAT MAY GET AN EXTRA TREAT OR MEAL FROM YOU BUYING THIS BOOK!!

PLEASE HELP THEM OUT IF YOU ARE AN ANIMAL NUT LIKE ME AND AND HAVE GREAT EMPATHY.

YOU GET TWO GIFTS IN ONE PURCHASE!

THE LINK TO BUY THE BOOK FROM AMAZON IS HERE:http://AMAZON.COM

OF COURSE GO TO YOUR LOCAL BOOKSHOP IF POSSIBLE!

We had a BIRTHDAY in OUR family!

Kristopher who was FIVE here in this photo, in the rolling hills of TUSCANY turned 38 on THE 12TH OF NOVEMBER!So, that makes this photo 33 years OLD!I just DONOT UNDERSTAND WHERE THE TIME WENT and HOW I GOT TO BE 65 SO FAST!

I spy one of his silver baby cups (he received MANY) and the silver NAPKIN RING with a bow on it from his NONNA in ITALY.Which came from GUCCI HEADQUARTERS!The cake is an ITALIAN CHRISTMAS BREAD called PANDORO.Similar to PANETONNE, but NO DRIED FRUIT!Instead, a packet of powdered sugar comes in the bag with the cake and you sprinkle it on the cake. Close it up with the plastic bag it came in and SHAKE IT!This way the powder goes ALL OVER THE BREAD.(This isNOT A GOOD EXAMPLE of that in this PHOTO!)

EVERYONE IS HELPING WITH THE BIG JOB OF BLOWING OUT THE FIVE CANDLES!

Here I captured a SPIDER WEB in MY GARDEN!

IT WAS PERFECT AND BIG!

EVEN HAD MANY “VICTIM’S” IN IT!

MAYBE YOU CAN SEE BETTER BELOW?

SEE THOSE SPECKS or DOTS?

CAUGHT BY THE WEB……………….!!!

I never did see the MAKER of this MAGNIFICENT WEB, but the ITALIAN did and he said HE WAS BIG!

I know what you are thinking!This is NOT a pretty photo and why is it in this BLOG!My husband said why don’t we bring the boxes leftover from my old vintage shop HEN HOUSE home and go through the CHRISTMAS STUFF and give most away……….I am at a point where it was VERY EASY for me to say SURE!In my head I was thinking like two or THREE boxes.Guess how many BOXES we brought home?

GRAND TOTAL is 14!

Mind you they aren’t ALL CHRISTMAS some is fabric and others are FULL OF GOOD STUFF!

The easiest thing to do would be to have a GARAGE SALE next weekend!

But FIRST I MUST GO THROUGH EACH AND EVERY BOX TO DETERMINE IF I CAN LET GO!

I plan to do that this coming week……………..

I will probably pack it all back up and take to my local THRIFT SHOP!

I do LIKE THE IDEA of a GARAGE SALE.

Seeing people and MOVEMENT of my found treasures.

IT’S AN END OF AN ERA………as my buddy PATRICIA CALLED IT!

Makes one REFLECT with FOND MEMORIES!

PATRICIA, was MY RIGHT HAND GAL with HEN HOUSE.

I could NEVER have done it without HER FANTASTIC HELP AND CREATIVE EYE!

This PINK TOPAZ has a good story ……….Last MAY I was contacted on FACEBOOK by a lovely woman who worked with MY MOM years ago at RODGERS GARDENS.My MOTHER had given her a ring from her STASH of JEWELS and Sheri had decided it was TOO BIG for her and not really her STYLE. Would I like to have it?

YES, was my answer and THANK YOU!Months went by and no ring so I assumed she forgot as we all do mean well ,but need a box, post office trip, etc……….I thought she would contact me if she had sent it so I did not ASK HER ABOUT IT and I hardly ever go on FACEBOOK.

Last Friday I get a message from SHERI; “Had I received the ring?”

NO!!

She had mailed it one week ago from OREGON.

MY HEART SANK!

I confirmed my address with her.

MY POSITIVE thinking took hold and I told SHERI maybe TOMORROW!

AND THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED.THE RING ARRIVED IN A PARCEL IN A LITTLE WHITE BOX!

CLOSE TO THE DAY MY MOTHER PASSED eight years ago!

WHAT A GIFT I RECEIVED!

I tried hard to recall when and where she got it my MOTHER and that never came to me, but I did remember she wore it on her PINKIE FINGER with a gold band to secure it!The fact that I could still visualize the ring on her finger MADE ME SO HAPPY!

SO ONCE AGAIN SHERI I THANK YOU FOR THINKING OF ME!

TIGRE, my social BUTTERFLY………..I think I may have told you this summer that he got LOCKED inside a home on our street?Well,Yes, he did and it was an empty house that was up FOR SALE!He went missing for a whole two days and one night!I thought thats it! He is GONE FOREVER!

Until my neighbors heard him crying and spied him in the KITCHEN WINDOW!

The ITALIAN called THE RELATOR and got the code for the LOCK BOX!

BAD TIGRE……….he must have gone in when the workmen were working on the house.

AND TRESPASSED INSIDE WITHOUT BEING SPOTTED!

HE IS SO CURIOUS AND LOVES PEOPLE!

LAST WEEK he did it AGAIN, but a different neighbors house!This time he went MISSING for only TWO HOURS, but he left HIS CALLING CARD!

A POOP.

MY neighbor was so IMPRESSED with TIGRE that he did not do it on the carpet, instead found some linoleum to do HIS BUSINESS!

SO, that makes TWO HOUSE ARRESTS that he did ALL BY HIMSELF and one day he got in ANOTHER neighbors car unbeknownst to him and off they drove!Thank GOODNESS MY MISTER SOCIAL CAT TIGRE made CAT CHIT CHAT and my DEAR NEIGHBOR; BOB CAME BACK HOME TO DROP HIM OFF!

THANK YOU BOB!

MY last Post I told you I was headed for the RECLAST INFUSION for OSTEOPORSIS, which goes into your vein in your hand.

NOTHING HURTS and it was over in about 40 minutes.

THAT IS DONE FOR ANOTHER YEAR.

I am ALL caught up on all vaccines and medical TO DO’s for the moment.

AFTER RECLAST I skipped to my HAIR LADY DIVINE and got a haircut.

Talk about FUN ALL IN ONE DAY!

SITTING IN THE CANCER CHEMO WARD GETTING AN INFUSION AND GETTING YOUR HAIR DONE SEEM TO BALANCE OUT THE DAY!

Oh, that double chin has ARRIVED!No way of escaping it BOTH OF MY PARENTS HAD IT.

MY ITALIAN LOVES TO PULL IT!

Which brings me to MY LATEST MEDICAL ESCAPADE!

I have gained weight about 8 pounds in TWO WEEKS……………..we could blame it on those chocolate covered raisins!

I think I have started to keep WATER IN MY BODY!

Although, my ankles are not swelling.

The cardiologist has me drinking 2.5 to 3.0 liters a day, because I am DEHYDRATED.

To find this out they push hard below your ribcage!

THAT KINDA HURTS!

I have NEVER been a water drinker and am finding it difficult.Plus, I was a sixty year old PLUS woman who could easily sleep through the NIGHT without getting up to PEE!

Well, those days are HISTORY!

My sleep has been disrupted and I find falling back to sleep sometimes IMPOSSIBLE!

EXCEPT WHEN WATCHING THE BOOB TUBE BETTER KNOW AS THE TV WITH ONE OF MY FOUR LEGGED BEASTIES!This is TIGRE. Mister SOCIAL.

PLEASE ENJOY THE UP COMING HOLIDAYS AND LETS TRY AND PICK OUR FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY!LATELY I HAVE BEEN THINKING WHAT IS MY FAVORITE TIME OF THE DAY?THIS IS MY LIFE AND AM I ENJOYING IT ENOUGH?

MY ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION WAS EARLY MORNING IN THE KITCHEN WITH MY TWO CATS,MY PHONE AND MY ONE CUP OF COFFEE FOR THE DAY IS MY FAVORITE PART OF MY DAY!

THIS HAS BEEN STRIPPED FROM ME THIS WEEK! MEANING THE ALMOND MILK I HAVE BEEN DRINKING FOR YEARS HAS CHANGED AND NOT FOR THE BETTER!IT’S DOWN RIGHT HORRIBLE!THEY TOOK OUT TWO INGREDIENTS FROM WHAT I COULD SEE, WHICH MADE THE CALORIE COUNT GO DOWN TO 40 CALORIES A CUP INSTEAD OF 50 WHICH IS GOOD NEWS, BUT MY GOD ITS HORRIFIC!ALL IN THE MANNER OF HAVING IT BE ORGANIC NOW!

MAYBE THEY CHANGED ALMOND SUPPLIERS………..I DO NOT KNOW WHAT HAPPENED,BUT I AM SO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT I CRIED!

I AM BESIDE MYSELF AT THE MOMENT!

THIS IS DAY THREE OF DRINKING A FOWL BEVERAGE…………..

ANY RECOMMENDATIONS OUT THERE?

SHOULD I GO WITH OAT MILK?

OR GO BACK TO DAIRY?

I HAVE 6 CARTOONS OF SILK (brand name) ORGANIC ALMOND MILK TO FINISH as The Italian buys in bulk at COSTCO!SO, we have time to find me a REPLACEMENT!

SUGGESTIONS ARE SO WELCOMED AT THIS TIME!

I stopped with DAIRY as my SON discovered it made him bloated and that I should try almond milk as he felt so much better.That was years ago.

I am VERY FORTUNATE IF THIS IS MY BIGGEST PROBLEM.

Which it is NOT but gosh darn I WANT TO ENJOY MY COFFEE IN THE MORNING!

I WANT TO START MY DAY WITH A BANG!

AND I WANT YOU TO DO THE SAME!

THANKS FOR CHIMING IN AND READING ALONG.

TO COMMENT OR READ THE COMMENTS KEEP SCROLLING DOWNWARDS.

MY BEST TO ALL OF YOU!

XXX

PS. ROSEMARIE, I received your POSTCARD THANK YOU!

P.S.S.Katherine in Arizona I received your mail!Thank YOU!

LOOK FOR THIS ON THE COVER PAGE/HOME PAGE ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE TO SUBSCRIBE.

59 Comments

Leave your reply.

Judith
· Reply

December 10, 2025 at 7:59 PM

Guess what I just found? This post! As usual, I am closing down the party. What an adorable photo of you two with the boys. You are right, where does the time go? I think it speeds up when you have a child. That Tigre is so funny. Thank heavens someone always finds him! As to milk, I take my coffee with heavy cream or at least 1/2 and 1/2. Yum!
Andria
· Reply

November 29, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Love your haircut!
I stopped drinking dairy milk for 10 or more years. Got osteoporosis, started annual reclast infusions… Recently, at my niece’s suggestion (she is a Masters degree nutritionist), I started drinking Fairlife ultra-filtered lactose-free milk in my coffee and with supper. I like it. It has more protein and much less sugar than “regular” milk. I’ve tried milk-alternatives but never really got used to any of them.
Good luck – I do hope you get back to enjoying your coffee again! — from a frequent reader – one who is an infrequent commenter.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 30, 2025 at 10:58 AM
  
  ANDRIA!
  THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR TELLING ME THIS………..
  I shall try it!DO I FIND IT IN THE REFRIGERATOR SECTION with other milks?
  I thought today I may just go back to regular whole milk since I did not have an allergic reaction and I LOVE IT!My coffee situation is much different then the NORM.I guess I should have explained that in the blog!I drink maybe TWO TABLESPOONS of coffee the rest is MILK< ETC........so HALF AND HALF does not work nor the OATMILK for me............too something which I cannot pin point BUT TOO MUCH CREAM! THANK YOU! XXX
- Andria
  · Reply
  
  November 30, 2025 at 5:17 PM
  
  Yes – in our more upscale grocery store in the Twin Cities suburb we live in, it is in the regrigerator srction with the other milks. We get the nonfat, but Fairlife also comes in 2% and whole milk. And, I’ve heard that Fairlife’s chocolate milk is unbelievably good – but I haven’t tried it.
  
  The other nice thing about Fairlife – its shelf life is much longer than “regular” milk. So you can go on vacation, wherever you go next, and when you return, it won’t have spoiled.
  
  Hope it works for you!
  
  So enjoyed your travel photos from your Italy trip!
  - La Contessa
    · Reply
    
    Author
    
    December 2, 2025 at 5:45 AM
    
    Thank YOU!
    Xxx
Kathy L from NC
· Reply

November 27, 2025 at 10:25 PM

I’m glad that you are now in possession of you mother’s ring. My doc told me to determine if I am dehydrated by pinching the skin on the top of my hand – if the skin flattens quickly then I am not dehydrated – and if the skin stays pinched for a couple of seconds, then I am dehydrated(??). I drink Silk unsweetened 30-calorie almond milk. I don’t understand how making a product organic could change the taste so much – but I will ask my daughter who works for the company that make Silk products – I think she was in charge of Silk products once. My dietician told me not to drink oat milk – she said it tastes yummy but it is full of sugar – and oats are sprayed a lot with the Round Up pesticide (glyphosate).
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2025 at 8:52 AM
  
  Kathy!
  I got your email will respond soon!Im moving very slow after the last few days!Your daughter works for SILK!!!
  Bingo,what has happened to COSTCO SILK UNSWEET that now reads ORGANIC?
  The oat milk I tried don’t care for that either too much SODIUM plus high in calories!!I think you drink what I use to drink!Im going to try another one mentioned here in the comments hopefully I can send the hubby to buy!!
  I will RESPOND IN A DAY OR TWO!
  Xxx
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 28, 2025 at 8:53 AM
  
  Yes!The dry skin test is TRUE!
Ellie's friend
· Reply

November 25, 2025 at 11:51 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
I love that your mother’s ring made its way back to you!
What a treasure!

Good luck with sorting the bins. If it’s any consolation, I’ve just sorted about 200 boxes of papers, letters, documents from my father’s office. I did it full time for 3 months in each of the past 3 years. I feel like I never knew my father until now. Lots of treasures of information. I sorted it all outside so i wouldn’t be in a dusty room. My friends kept stopping by to chat which drove me crazy as I was racing to beat the snowstorm. I finished at 4:30 pm Sunday. At 7 it started to snow heavily. Happy thanksgiving!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 30, 2025 at 10:51 AM
  
  THAT IS SO GOOD OF YOU!GLAD YOU BEAT THE DEADLINE!
  I JUST READ ALL THE CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN MY DIVORCED PARENTS………….cant say I enjoyed it!
  BINS from HEN HOUSE ARE SORTED AND HAVE GONE TO OTHER PLACES!!!I was able to do it in ONE WEEK!!
  I was VERY PROUD OF MYSELF!
  DID KEEP A FEW THINGS!
  XXX
Donna O'Klock
· Reply

November 23, 2025 at 6:38 AM

Great haircut – you have such lovely hair! On the question of Oat Milk – I say YES, definitely give it a try.
I drank almond (Pacifica, Silk & Califia) milk for 15 years, but never really liked it in my ONE cup of coffee. I tried hemp milk, for it’s richness…. better. But, finally tried Oatmilk and it has been superb for everything.
Great in a cup of coffee, wonderful for soups, gravies, hot cocoa, smoothies. I use Oatly, (full fat has the better mouth-feel) and how much fat is in an oat, anyway? The one in the darker blue container.
Since I only have two of them, I give it two thumbs up!
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
XO. Donna
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 24, 2025 at 8:24 AM
  
  HELLO DONNA!
  BIRTHDAY GAL THIS MONTH!I am drinking a coffee right now with CHOBANI OATMILK!NOT BAD…………loads of calories and very high in SODIUM.But I’m not on a sodium restricted diet for the heart yet!I saw the CALIFIA and will try that next.As others have mentioned that!THANKS for your input!
  HAPPY THANKS GIVING TO YOU AND YOURS……….XXX
Dee Black
· Reply

November 22, 2025 at 6:45 PM

What a fun blog. So much in it. That ring finding you, was a big hello from your mom. What a kind gesture from the woman that sent it to you. It’s suits you.

Happy ,as I mentioned before, to purchase a book that helps pets in shelters. Thank you to fife, for the “Visions of Christmas” book. My newest addition to our family is a 6 year old retired springer from a breeder. I will read this wonderful book to “Lena” at Christmas.
Tigre does like an adventure. Love the picture of him on your lap napping. Lock that little guy up if you have an estate sale. He may disappear with the Limoges!
What a spider web. We get huge ones here too. I get a bite every-time I work in my yard.
I use half & half. I can’t imagine giving up my coffee with cream. I need creamer to drink coffee. Hope you find a new one soon.
I’m five years older than you (70). I understand all the maintenance we have to do; however, I am thinking of dropping two at 75. I bet you can guess which two. Since you mentioned in comments talking about that area!
Always love your blogs. Like having a real visit sharing real life…. with a friend.

Things I like at this stage of life:

Coffee with cream on my porch with Lena
A great book to read
My yard and flowers
The sound of my grandchildren’s voices
Catching up with friends

Xoxo Dee
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 23, 2025 at 6:08 PM
  
  Mrs.Black,
  Are you telling me you are going to STOP wearing the pads at 75?You made me laugh OUTLOUD!I moved my stepmother‘s chest of drawers into my house and in the bottom drawer the other day I was searching for a place to hide some photo albums, which I can’t bare to toss, even if there’s duplicates in this house and I found her diapers. There’s a lot of of them! My dilemma is do I keep them for when I need them or do I toss them or do I give them to a thrift shop? Maybe you’re telling me you’re gonna upgrade from pads to diapers at 75 !!!I may beat you in that DEPARTMENT!My neighbor had a bladder tuck in her 60’s!I wonder if that’s worth looking into at our AGE?
  I shall ask that question on the blog in another post but first I’ve got to do a post on the Husband and retirement what that has done to me!!
  Happy for you and LENA!
  I bought half and half and liked it but because I drink more milk than coffee it was too rich after awhile for me!So today I tried GLUTEN FREE OATMILK!
  Many more calories 140 to a cup verses 40 but I can enjoy my coffee better now!Starting the day with JOY is better than tears!Thank You for buying Fifi’s book to support the shelters!She is a kind beautiful woman like YOU!
  A BIG HUG,
  Xoxo
Carmen Mouchacca
· Reply

November 22, 2025 at 4:06 AM

I find Califia – don’t know if I spelled it right – the best tasting and a little creamer – I tries Almond Breeze and it seemed watered down – good luck
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 22, 2025 at 11:18 AM
  
  THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
  XXX
Rita
· Reply

November 20, 2025 at 10:56 AM

Elizabeth we are in the same mode right now. A pipe burst in May and my basement got a bit of water. Enough that all four rooms and my Christmas Closet got new flooring, baseboards, and paint.
I am now in the process of going through all the holiday boxes. I did condense Halloween/Thanksgiving tubs from 3 to 2. Halloween was my husband’s birthday, so it was an extra special occasion. He’s been gone 3 years but it still feels so fresh.
Tigre! I can picture him in all your stories. My nephew Graham lives with me. He rescued a kitten on Father’s Day from the street. Nash and I have such fun while Graham is at work.
I have never been a water drinker either. I do drink a lot of tea. Caffeinated in the morning and herbal the rest of the day. I have quite the collection and rotate every day. In order to get my water in, I have succumbed to those squirt bottles with artificial sweetener. At 68, my thoughts are just do what you gotta do. I love the MIO Sweet Tea flavor. I definitely drink more water.
Dry lips, dry skin, and what feels like paper cuts in the nether regions. Thankfully I found something very helpful for that, Silky Peach Cream. Why when we have time to enjoy life do we get all the issues. Like you and others here have said, it could be worse.
Well it’s time for me to hit those tubs. I have more than 14, and that’s just the Christmas Closet. We used a room for storage. More than half the room has tubs stacked to the ceiling and 3 deep. I will be watching new shows and movies while going through it all. It’s slow because of the memories of a beautiful life.
Happy Thanksgiving whatever you end up doing. I am the one who does Thanksgiving but not in the mood this year. So I got everyone to join me and friends at a hotel for dinner. I have friends who live downtown, and can’t go to friends homes (he’s in a wheelchair), and their apartment is too small to host. So it’s nice we can include them. Gobble, gobble ????
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 21, 2025 at 7:07 AM
  
  OH RITA WHAT A MESS…………….I feel for YOU!
  I love that your nephew lives with you and he found a kitty to ADD to the HOME!
  You speak of the NETHER REGIONS!!I could do a whole POST on THAT!Yes, once you become a water drinker LIKE US than we head to the potty often which requires paper to wipe and if you have a weak bladder you dribble………which requires a pad if you want to be FRESH which in turn has chemicals and causes soreness and itching!It’s a HORRIBLE NEW REALITY which I could LIVE withOUT!
  I find it hard to Believe its been THREE years……………..
  Good for YOU to suggest a HOTEL.I like the idea of ZERO CLEAN UP!
  XXX
Karen
· Reply

November 20, 2025 at 7:04 AM

Dear Contessa,

First, your garden is always spectacular, but I love that exquisite spiderweb.

Second, I was a customer of the henhouse. I’m the one whose mother worked at I Magnin was a model there as well. I used to love all of your wonderful treasures. I have a few here at home. Selfishly I would love to see you do a garage sale of some type, but I know that that is so much work. I did one a couple of years ago and called it in estate sale because it was – it was my estate. I did very well, but I had very reasonable prices. Now very much like you. I donate most of everything because it’s a wonderful cause and it’s easier. Selfishly though because I live in your vicinity it would be wonderful if you did have a sale if you had a preview for some of Your followers who live in the area. Selfish, I know. But a girl can always stream!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 20, 2025 at 8:08 AM
  
  GET IN TOUCH WITH ME HERE!
  YOU GOT YOURSELF AN INVITE!
  EMAIL:iolacontessa@gmail.com
  XXX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

November 20, 2025 at 6:54 AM

Elizabeth, I’m an overprotective dog mom so if Annie went missing, even for 30 seconds, I would be in full panic alert mode. Checking every place inside and out and knocking on every neighbor’s door. BRW, I love your mother’s ring. What a delight you have it back! xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 20, 2025 at 8:10 AM
  
  MOM had GOOD TASTE…………to prove that she told me MY ITALIAN WAS A CATCH and TO OPEN MY EYES!!I LISTENED!
  XOXO
Contessa
· Reply

Author

November 20, 2025 at 6:09 AM

Elizabeth
I can not begin to tell you how much it touched my heart to return the ring. Your mother, my sweet Aunt Betty was a very special friend and I cherish her memory. I felt her smile. The ring is home.
I always felt like I knew you and the Italian, she told me so many stories about you.
Thank you for the wonderful story in your blog.
Hugs
Sheri
D. A. Squires
· Reply

November 19, 2025 at 7:13 PM

Have to tell you that I use Silk Almond Creamer, Vanilla flavored, 30 calories, in my ice coffee everyday… just went to fridge to read label. A lot of ingredients I did not pay attention to! Anyway, have you tried the vanilla flavored? It’s mild and has not changed in flavor. I know what you mean… coffee, the way you like it, is SO IMPORTANT : ) My favorite drinks are this in am and Gin & Tonic in pm… the two best parts of the day for me. Hope you can find a good tasting substitute SOON!! Loved the ring story and the Tigre stories, but don’t think I could let him out anymore.. he is tooo curious.. and you know that expression! We just had a neighborhood (350 homes!!) tag sale… we were at my parent’s home, still have paintings and furniture to sell, it was the first time and so many participated. However, I need not one more thing. Ever. Those plastic bins are in my nightmares now : )
XOXO and Happy Thanksgiving!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 20, 2025 at 8:17 AM
  
  Debbie, Yes I donot care for the VANILLA have tried.Plus, I think it is fake flavoring therefore would have GLUTEN in it!Gluten is not my friend.I can handle the diary just NO GLUTEN.I’m a PUREST or thought I was……….!OH, I loved G&T too…….especially in the summer time!I haven’t had a drink in years!Due to the times when they told me I was epileptic and on SEIZURE MEDS!It was the ATLAS causing all my problems…………….a bone out of PLACE!ALCHOL does not appeal anymore to me.I will partake in a small glass of PROSECCO for special occasions!
  THANK YOU for your suggestions!
  HAPPY TURKEY DAY TO YOU AND THE FAMILY!
  XOXO
Bonnie Melielo
· Reply

November 19, 2025 at 6:10 PM

Re: almond milk. my sister-in-law uses Almond Breeze unsweetened vanilla and puts a dash of cinnamon in it. A cup on her Fiber 1 cereal every day. She is 77 and still plays tennis 🙂
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 20, 2025 at 8:19 AM
  
  GO SISTER GO!!
  NO VANILLA FOR ME as I believe that to be a gluten additive………..
  I am for sure GLUTEN INTOLERANT!
  XXX
Katherine
· Reply

November 19, 2025 at 4:35 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
Wow, that spider is huge. I’ve never seen anything like that.
Good luck going through your boxes from your store. I’m sure that will trigger memories.
Your mother’s pink topaz ring is beautiful. I’m so glad you have it. I’m sure it holds special memories.
Your adorable and loveable Tigre is so pretty. I love how he is cuddling up with you while you were sleeping.
Your hair looks great.
Oh yes, your metabolism changes big time as you advance in age. Then comes insomnia when you can’t get back to sleep after getting up and down having to go pee. It’s very frustrating. Then you feel like crap the next day.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 20, 2025 at 8:25 AM
  
  IT’s ALL TOO MUCH isn’t it Katherine?We make it to this age and you would think its smooth sailing!!I have begun the BOXES!I opened the first box TWO XMAS wreaths!Okay, on to the next…PACKED FULL OF SILVER AND TRINKETS SOME of which came from my house!I closed the lid and made lunch!I couldn’t DEAL WITH IT!Re-tackled after lunch and slowly MADE PILES!!!!!!!!!
  It has been much harder than I thought!!!!!!!!
  The ITALIAN ready to KILL ME over MORE PLATES IN THE HOUSE!!!!!!!
  THE PLATES STAY!LIMOGES…………no question about that and a whole bloody SET.Flower MOTIFF!!!!
  I want them to be our every day ware!
  XXX
Bonnie Melielo
· Reply

November 19, 2025 at 2:15 PM

Right there with you in the “season of letting go”. I finally, thank you Lord for the grace to do it, got rid of boxes and boxes of books, teaching materials, math manipulatives, etc. from my preschool/elementary teaching days. Soooo many memories in all of them. I donated to a fundraiser at church and I know my “things” found loving homes. I am not done but I have made a very good start.
Re: water drinking. Years ago my adult asthma made its very unwelcome debut. I had never been a water drinker. I had to put up a sign on my kitchen cabinet to remind me to “Drink Water!”. Now I drink 48 oz. a day. Yes I get up to pee at night but most times I am able to fall right back to sleep, a huge blessing.
I turned 70, doc changed my thyroid med and I gained 10 lbs. I cannot get rid of it, or the belly which I never had before. I am trying daily Oolong tea and apparently have to drastically change the amount of food I eat as my metabolism seems to sleep most of the time. My body doesn’t seem to hold water at all. Even 48 oz and my lips and skin are dry. Fun times but it’s actually small potatoes compared to most. Hope your holidays are stress free, family filled and joyful.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 8:34 AM
  
  OH BONNIE!
  I have the dry skin and dry lips too…………and I do not enjoy greasing up!BUGS ME!
  I have a yellow sticky on the kitchen counter to remind me!Use to be the LARGE MEASURING GLASS!Now I know my tall Mexican greenware glasses are half a liter each………I use a straw by the way which helps it go down for me!Much easier to drink.MY MOTHER always BLAMED her weight on THYROID meds!!!YES, to eating LESS………..thats what we need to do and its JUST NOT FAIR!The ITALIAN has given up on lunch!HE IS SO DISCIPLINED its scary!!I know NO OTHER almost 66 year old man who watches his weight!!!!!!DO YOU?
  I feel cheated sometimes……NO GLUTEN,ONE COFFEE cause body says no more!NO EATING WHAT I WANT TO EAT!SMALL PORTIONS, etc…………
  THEN I REMIND MYSELF I’m GONNA DIE SOONER than LATER SO ENJOY IT!
  EATING is ONE of LIFES GREATEST JOYS!
  MANGIA!!
  XXX
Cara C.
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November 19, 2025 at 2:14 PM

Elizabeth we make our own almond milk by blending raw organic almonds with water and a bit of lecithin. One can also add some sweetener, but we don’t. After blending very well (we use a Vitamix), we strain it either through a nut milk bag or a very fine metal strainer. Obviously the less water, the creamier. The leftover pulp is food in pancakes, cookies and sweet breads. We sometimes use hazelnuts and those are delicious, too. If you use hemp seeds, you don’t really need to strain.

Making your own means you have complete control over the ingredients.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 8:38 AM
  
  It’s not worth the effort for me CARA for one latte cafe a day………….plus there is NO ROOM on counter for a VITAMIX!I would be the only one drinking it.I will find a SOLUTION!Maybe today as I have to go to the store!
  Many Thanks Im sure others may enjoy this!
  XXX
Heidi
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November 19, 2025 at 2:03 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
Well you covered a lot here today! Your mom’s pink ring is beautiful. I have a large blue topaz that my mother wore occasionally, I should wear it more often.
The new haircut is really good. Your hair sure grows quickly!
I use Nut Pods oat+ cocoanut creamer in my tea and lattes. I like the creaminess, the flavor and the lovely thick foam I get when I use my frother.
Tigre is a wanderer and a curious cat! Mine have been entertaining me daily, and I’m surprised that I adopted them two years ago. Doesn’t seem that long ago!
The holidays will be here very soon, getting ready for a visit from my youngest and her beau for Thanksgiving. Not really looking forward to the first Christmas in 30 that she won’t be here with us. She’s headed to NY this year to spend time with Max’s family, and celebrate a French Noel.
Have fun checking the inventory in those big boxes. Bet you’ll uncover some real treasures!
I hope you are feeling well. Our visit in September didn’t happen, I’ll def need to get up there in Dec or January.
Xo Heidi
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 3:19 PM
  
  SOUNDS GOOD HEIDI……………
  IT’s all coming too fast now.
  THE BOXES ARE ALMOST DONE!ONE MORE DAY AND I CAN TAKE TO THRIFT SHOP!HAVE A BIT MORE ENERGY THESE DAYS………..BIG IMPROVEMENT!STILL GET TERRIBLY TIRED BUT THIS LAST WEEK NO NAPS!!!THAT IS HUGH!
  XOXO
PPPno
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November 19, 2025 at 1:53 PM

Ma Chere Contessa,
I was thinking about all the time and effort you put into your blogs and thank you so much!
Your blogs are a delight and a wonderful diversion into humorous stories which are so enjoyable!
You mentioned the boxes with the stuff from the Hen House and I’m reminded of how much I loved visiting your store.
I still am surrounded by many great buys! So I think of you fondly dear Contessa.
Loved the tender story of the ring that arrived at your door. Loved the wandering cat, although I am not a cat person!
Loved the infusion juxtaposed with haircut day! Life had its challenges, but you consistently focus on the positives!!
Thanks for another delightful break in my day.
PPPno
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 3:22 PM
  
  PPPNO!
  Those days seem like yesterday but yet it was 15 years ago I THINK since I closed the HEN HOUSE DOORS!HARD TO BELIVE…………….almost done with the sorting!!I let go of A LOT…………..glad you got some of it!
  XXX
Susan
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November 19, 2025 at 12:22 PM

Please don’t let your kitty roam outdoors. There are so many dangers for our furry friends! Many years ago, we let our cat go in and out. I was out in the garden and
heard him meowing. I looked around and he was dragging the back half of his body through the garden gate. He had been hit by a car and run over. We had to
put him down. I will never forget that day and dear Sam crying for me….. We had another cat who was caught in a neighbor’s rabbit trap. People put poison out, for rodents. There are just too many things that can harm them. Your Tigre looks like a very beautiful and lovable kitty. Keep him safe!
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 8:42 AM
  
  SUSAN that is a VERY SAD STORY!I am sorry you had to go through that!
  My cats have access to a DOGGIE DOOR therefore NO WAY to keep inside!WE live on a short street which is pretty safe.ALL MY NEIGHBORS ADORE MY CATS……….
  None of those things have ever happened here.
  Thanks for sharing!
  XXX
Lynda Ashley
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November 19, 2025 at 9:55 AM

Hi Elisabeth
Love your blog and am a huge fan of you and your life. I live in Santa Clarita in So. Cal so we are not too far from each other.
I loathe and detest Oat Milk and cannot for the life of me understand why people love it. I used to drink Almond Milk until I discovered Coconut Milk!! It is absolutely fabulous!! I get the plainest one I think about 45 calories. So very healthy and perfect for lactose intolerant me. There is also Coconut Milk yogurt which is amazing.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 8:39 AM
  
  TOO thin in substance for my latte ASHLEY……..isnt it like water?GAWD I have to drink enough WATER a day let me have a creamy thick MILK!!!
  ONCE A DAY!!!
  HELLO NEIGHBOR!!
  XXX
lisa thomson
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November 19, 2025 at 9:52 AM

Hi LA CONTESSA. I love that story about the pink topaz ring! How special that you received it right before the anniversary of your mother’s death. Sounds like she was orchestrating the whole thing from above.

Have you tried lactose free milk or cream? That’s what I use in my coffee and it’s great. Tastes the same as regular. You can get 1% or low fat. I like oat milk but it can taste a bit heavey in a cuppacino, for example. Coconut milk doesn’t froth and is too light to go with coffee. Soy is very rich. HA, that’s all just my own opinion of course.

Best of luck with your Hen House boxes. I bet you have some wonderful treasures in there. Wish I could go through it with you. I quite enjoy sorting.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 20, 2025 at 6:18 AM
  
  NO, LIsa I have not tried lactose free………..I”M ON IT!Agree with you about coconut milk and I too have tried OAT MILK in the past and LOVED IT!
  I put up a REEL on my instagram this morning for you to see the STUFF I sold and still have.Take a peek at LA VINTAGE CONTESSA on the gram for your shopping NEEDS!My neighbors children are my models!Look for a pearl necklace and a HAT with flowers on a young boy!
  A BIG HUG to YOU!
  XXX
Susan Ray
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November 19, 2025 at 8:36 AM

Good morning Elizabeth

Thank you sweetheart thank you I just want you to know I always enjoy your blogs always I love the picture of your two darling sons and I remember your mom and your blogs. I didn’t realize she worked at rogers Garden was just my favorite place to go with my daughter, I can’t wait for you to open up all those boxes. It’s kind of like Christmas all over again. You’ll need to take pictures to show us all what you found also, I drink coffee at Starbucks with my oat milk,…. But that doesn’t seem to make its way to my home. I usually use half-and-half. It’s just a little indulgence. I figure I can cut out other things, but I do love my coffee in the morning. I love your animals. I hope Betsy’s doing well and your haircut is wonderful.

Susan from Riverside
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 19, 2025 at 10:25 AM
  
  SUSAN do you know I have never tried HALF and HALF!!!!!
  I think I will do that!SMALL CONTAINER and I can see if the old BOD can tolerate the milk part!I tolerate CHEESE just fine!
  RODGERS is owned by MY FAMILY on my MOTHERS SIDE!!
  IT IS A SPECIAL PLACE…………..and I always have to go when I go for a visit!AND NOW THEY HAVE A RESTAURANT.WHAT A WAY TO SPEND A DAY!!!!!!SHOP, SMELL AND EAT!CHRISTMAS IS A SPECIAL TIME THERE! ITS UP GET OVER THERE AND REPORT BACK TO ME!
  XXX
  PS. BETTY IS DOING GREAT!
rena.spain
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November 19, 2025 at 8:35 AM

Super photo of the spider web….the ring…what a surprise it must be…..don`t be afraid about dairy, it`s still the best of all but don`t use 0% fat which is not healthy.
Looking forward to the Xmas season ? Couldn`t wait I couldn’t wait any longer and already started decorating my new home a little.
….think the whole world need a little bit of romantic
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 19, 2025 at 10:20 AM
  
  I agree with YOU RENA we all seem to be looking forward to the HOLIDAYS I have noticed on Instagram people are decorating sooner than normal!WE NEED A BIT OF COMFORT especially over here in the USA!THE world is in need of some GOOD NEWS and BEAUTY!
  I KNOW ABOUT THE FAT have been using BUTTER a bit MORE!That does not bother me.OUR BODIES NEED THAT FAT!
  XXX
Linda Henderson
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November 19, 2025 at 8:34 AM

I think it is wonderful you now have a ring from your Mother. I wear a silver ring that belonged to my Mother and I love it. It makes me happy. And that Tigre! What a character! Never can out think those kitties. Next door Tigger visits us through the pet door almost every day. I love receiving your blog in my inbox.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 19, 2025 at 10:14 AM
  
  OH LINDA!
  HOW LUCKY TO HAVE A DAILY VISITOR!MY TIGRE LOVES TO HANG OUT IN MY BATHROOM THIS WEEK AND WATCH THE HEAT VENT!IT BLOWS SO HE IS ENTHRALLED!HE IS THERE FOR HOURS WAITING FOR THAT TO HAPPEN!
  THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH……..I get a little nervous with each post!
  STILL after all these years!
  XXX
LORELEI
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November 19, 2025 at 6:31 AM

Hi – a rec for what to add to your coffee – Pea milk (made from peas) – high protein no weird taste and it lightens your coffee like cow’s milk or 1/2 and 1/2
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 19, 2025 at 7:54 AM
  
  MANY THANKS!I have NEVER HEARD OF PEA MILK!
  I WILL LOOK FOR IT!
  XXX
Lisa
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November 19, 2025 at 6:13 AM

La Conessa,
What a delight to receive your mother’s beautiful ring so promptly; it seems she may have had a hand in helping it find its way back to you.

I spent 30 years in the jewelry business, and I often told my clients, “This is not just a piece of jewelry, it’s a memory for anyone who witnesses the recipient enjoying it.”
I try to wear my favorite pieces frequently so my four children will remember the joy I feel when I wear them.

We share many interests, such as a love of antiques, travel, our age, and now I know your son was born one year and one day after my oldest, Ben. I said your exact words… How is it that I have a child who turned 37 on November 11, and I am really 65 (October 3)?
How time flies!

I also enjoy the early hours, most of the time with one of our three cats sitting in my lap.
I’m still working, so I get up an hour and a half before I start getting ready, to enjoy the quiet of the day and my cup of coffee.
I do enjoy my coffee with cream, though if I had more than one cup, I’d have to switch to oat milk due to a mild dairy intolerance. Oat milk doesn’t have much flavor. Respectfully, I’m sorry to say the Silk brand is one of the worst because of all the artificial ingredients.
Here are a few “cleaner” products you might want to try.
I have used all three and find them to be good. Good luck on finding a substitute that you’ll enjoy.
Have a wonderful time going through your boxes of treasures im sure you will experence many sweet memories.
Sincerely,
Lisa B
Memphis, TN
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 19, 2025 at 8:17 AM
  
  LISA ,
  THANKS FOR THE INFO THAT SILK CONTAINS BAD STUFF!
  I AM GOING TO LIST BELOW WHAT IS ON THE CARTON.
  CALCIUM CARBONATE.VITAMIN E ACETATE,
  VITAMIN A,VITAMIN D2,VITAMIN B12,SEA SALT AND GELLAN GUM.
  WATER AND ORGANIC ALMONDS.
  
  IT ALSO SAYS ‘LOVE IT OR YOUR MONEY BACK!!”I THINK I MAY CALL!
  FREE FROM DAIRY. GLUTEN, CARRAGEENAN,CHOLESTEROL,SOY,ARTIFICIAL COLORS,AND ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS!!
  WELL WE KNOW IT HAS NO FLAVOR FROM ME YUCK!
  40 CALORIES PER CUP.
  THANK YOU I WILL LOOK INTO OTHER OPTIONS!
  AS I CANNOT START MY DAY GOING YUCK AFTER EVERY SIP!
  XXX
fifi
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November 19, 2025 at 5:48 AM

Dearest Elizabeth, thank you so much for including Visions of Christmas in today’s post. Your love and empathy for animals always shine brightly and taking the time to encourage people to consider purchasing this book to benefit no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations speak volumes about your compassion. My hope is that animal lovers will find it in their heart to help, my wish is for all animals to be safe and loved. Elizabeth, thank you for helping spread the word. It means more than you know. Love to you and yours, and all your sweet pets. XOXOXO fifi and the animals.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 19, 2025 at 8:03 AM
  
  ANYTHING FOR YOU!
  I WILL BE PLACING MY CHRISTMAS ORDER SOON!COUNTING HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL ENJOY YOUR BOOK!
  HOPE YOU ARE WELL AND AS SNUG AS A BUG IN YOUR COTTAGE!
  XOXO
Janey
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November 19, 2025 at 4:28 AM

Gosh Elizabeth time does pass quickly. I remember your Mom (in your posts). How lovely that her friend gave you the ring. Loved the picture of a younger family blowing out the birthday candles.
My daughter has a cat that looks like Tiger. His name is Larry, named after one of the three stooges!
Can’t wait for you to discover old treasures in those 14 boxes! I enjoy early morning too with my cup of coffee and especially today since your post arrived.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 19, 2025 at 8:00 AM
  
  JANEY!
  GOOD DAY TO YOU!I STARTED THE BOXES YESTERDAY………..OH MIO DIO!
  SO MUCH GOOD STUFF!MUCH HARDER THAN I HAD ANTICIPATED!THE HUSBAND IS LOOKING AT ME CROSSED EYE AS MORE PLATES ARE COMING INTO THE HOUSE!
  THRILLED YOU REMEMBER MY MOTHER!I FOUND AN ITEM THAT SHE HAD AT THE HEN HOUSE FOR $8.00 AND OF COURSE ITS IN HER HANDWRITING AND SO INTO MY HOUSE IT CAME!
  MY BOYS WILL HAVE A BIG JOB AHEAD!
  HOPEFULLY, A LITTLE BIT OF ME WILL HAVE RUBBED OFF……..XXX
Leslie
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November 18, 2025 at 4:21 PM

Oh you’ve had lots of fun…an infusion (good for you) and a chic hair cut :-))
Whatever will you do if you cannot part with the contents of those 14 boxes of treasures! Garage sales are an easy way of parting with stuff…

I think that ring is darling and a wonderful keepsake. Very kind to have it sent to you in memory of your dear Mum.

I drink Almond milk too now that I discovered my lactose problem…I use a brand called Earth’s Own…not sure if it is sold in the US?

Good luck,
Leslie
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 19, 2025 at 7:56 AM
  
  I NEED TO INVESTIGATE THESE MILKS NOW……….
  NEVER A DULL MOMENT WITH ME!
  THANKS SO MUCH LESLIE!
  XXX