A REPORT on MY YEAR!

February 16, 2021 75 Comments

IT has been a STRANGE MONTH…………

even stranger YEAR…………..but it has gone by relatively FAST.

For ME as someone who DID AS SHE WAS TOLD and stayed HOME since last March 17,2020.

To those who complained; I reminded them that BOMBS were NOT FALLING and we did have FOOD!

It could have been A LOT WORSE!

We are a generation who LIVED THE GOOD LIFE.

WE ARE THE LUCKY ONES!

We got to play outside with our imaginations eat with our families at the dinner table and search catalogs for the perfect gifts!

We saw the introduction of the SONY WALKMAN!

Remember those?

AND THEN EVERYTHING ELSE ARRIVED LIKE BIRDS IN A MIGRATION!

COMPUTERS & CELL PHONES became OUR WORLD.

A FEW THINGS I HAVE NOTICED ABOUT MYSELF:

I lost A LOT of muscle tone and strength this year.

I lost a bit MORE weight.

Saved a TON of MONEY!

SICK TO DEATH OF MY COOKING!

DID A LOT of READING in the beginning.

Called people to check in………..

Devoted my days to reading Blogs and Commenting with GUSTO!Always using exclamation marks and CAPS to get my excitement across………….I was ALWAYS LEARNING something NEW from these BLOGS and searching for new recipes!

I never turned the TV on in the morning or afternoon.EVER.

I polished silver.

I cleaned a bookshelf.

I GOT A NEW CLOSET!

I STILL NEED TO CLEAN MY LITTLE OFFICE AS THE DUST IS DANCING THE TANGO!

(NOT GOOD FOR A WOMAN WHO HAS A PERPETUAL COUGH!)

I have had one manicure/pedicure in a years time.

I did keep my SELF~CARE APPOINTMENTS AS THEY HELP ME FUNCTION when it was possible.

MASSAGE,CHIROPRACTOR,&ACUPUNCTURE.

I did absolutely ZERO EXERCISE.

AND THE BODY HAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD IN THE LAST 30 YEARS!

I drank cranberry juice and ginger ale on the ROCKS with a TWIST of LEMON every eve for MY COCKTAIL.

Just changed to POM POM juice which I like even better!

I stopped staring at my phone for THREE WHOLE MONTHS when I got HACKED back in September.

(The pain in my neck subsided).

I think I started shopping on line to fill that GAP!

That came to a STANDSTILL pretty FAST as I DONOT NEED A THING!

Except maybe a good bra as the old ones are TOO BIG!

To be honest I am enjoying NOT WEARING ONE!

I realized from the GET GO that even though I am a LONER………YES, I like to be ALONE I still need people in my LIFE..So, I found that by going to the grocery store and the bank once a week that would fill my NEED of SOCIALIZING!

HAVE I EVER TOLD YOU I LOVE MY BANK PEOPLE?

I DO!

I think I took ONE WALK all year.

AND my LOWER back started to ache.

MY BUDDY BECAME A SENSATION ON INSTAGRAM AT THE AGE of 80!

MY DOG WINSTON DIED.

A FELLOW BLOGGER DIED.

I GAVE AWAY MY CHICKENS & ONE DOVE this past week.

APART of me DIED.

MY SKIN became VERY DRY.

I TURNED 60 in 2020.

LADY WINDERMERE was discovered in my BODY.

MY EPISODES STOPPED FOR SIX MONTHS!

The lines on my face TRIPLED.

I SEE MY MOTHERS skin creeping on to me!

I realize MY SONS willNOT WANT MY STUFF.

I learned I am VERY SENTIMENTAL.

AND

I realize I am SLOWING DOWN BIG TIME.

I am not ready to be a SLOW MOVEMENT YET!

WHAT A YEAR IT HAS BEEN……………

WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT MYSELF IS I CAN EASILY STAY HOME!

I CAN BE ENTERTAINED WITH WHAT I HAVE SURROUNDED MYSELF IN DECOR.

For years I shopped the FLEA MARKETS and the Consignment and Thrift stores and I had a BALL doing so!

IT HAS KEPT ME HAPPY THIS PAST YEAR AS THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO LOOK AT OR DO!

I can even SHOP MY HOME if I need a GIFT!

NO Marie Kondo FOR ME!I would have SUNK DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE FOR CERTAIN IF I HAD CREATED A STERILE ENVIRONMENT that could easily be DUSTED!

Maybe I need to write a book on HOW TO BUY WHAT SPEAKS TO YOU AND GIVE IT A HOME!

AS you can see below I liked HATS even at a young AGE!

HAND ON HIP WAS SOMETHING WE LEARNED EARLY…..I GUESS!

THE GOLDFISH on my suit was PROOF I could SWIM in THE DEEP END!

I had a CRUSH on my swimming instructor a Mr. BILL.

He drove a model T-FORD.

This was my neighbor and good friend GINNA.

Her Mother had a house full of ANTIQUES and heavy sliding wooden GLASS DOORS!

See those pots behind her elbow……….I DO BELIEVE THOSE WERE OUR PROJECT of the TIME!

This photo was taken in 1966.

I WAS SIX YEARS OLD.

In the olden days they would put the date on the side of the PHOTO!

WHAT A BRILLIANT IDEA!

Modeling at JOSPEH MAGNIN’S in SAN FRANSISCO.

First and LAST TIME I EVER WORE WHITE SHOES!

NO!

I take that back.

I had to have a pair of GO-GO BOOTS which were white vinyl!

THAN

THERE WERE THE WEDDING SHOES!

I ADORED THOSE KNEE HIGH’s!THEY ACTUALLY STAYED UP ALL DAY LONG!

Do you recall the piece of YARN we wore in our HAIR!!!

I’m wearing one and so is the lady in the audience!

We were always playing “DRESS UP!”

I have two of those pearl headbands TODAY!I have no recollection of owning them back in the 1960’s!

HAVE YOU KEPT IN CONTACT WITH YOUR CHILDHOOD FRIENDS?

It’s always a BRIGHT STAR in my DAY when I hear from them.

I’m LUCKY again as I have a FEW of them in my LIFE STILL!

This was the only item I purchased this month from GREEN SUPPLY VINTAGE on INSTAGRAM.

I liked the BOUQUET of FLOWERS.

She sells VINTAGE FROCKS and CAFTANS…………..and lives in Southern California where I as a young girl use to run around barefoot and constantly stub my TOE!Take a peek at her FEED.SHE told me awhile back that I was HER VERY FIRST CUSTOMER which MADE ME SO HAPPY!

I look forward to the DAY I CAN GIVE HER A BIG HUG IN PERSON!

TO SHOP HER FINDS…….

GREEN SUPPLY VINTAGE CLICK HERE!

Now that I have TALKED ABOUT MYSELF ENOUGH what is NEW IN YOUR LIFE?

IS SPRING STARTING TO POP IN YOUR GARDEN?

ARE YOU READING A BOOK YOU CANNOT PUT DOWN?

ARE you enjoying some MAKE UP VIDEO’s and learning HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR ASSETS?

ARE you thinking about how YOU can make the person your living with Life’s BETTER……..

and for me that includes MY ANIMALS!!

I really need to clean my CAR OUT…………BUT BUT BUT!!!

Just not ready to DIVE INTO THAT AREA YET!

MOCK ORANGE AND YELLOW ITALIAN JASMINE PERFUME THIS SIDE OF THE HOUSE.

IT WILL NOT BE LONG NOW!

HANG IN THERE READERS……………XXX

SPRING IS ARRIVING TO OUR PART OF THE WORLD!

75 Comments

Leave your reply.

Juliet
· Reply

February 22, 2021 at 1:43 PM

Love photos of our young Contessa! Isn’t it wonderful to be in touch with childhood friends. As we age and lose parents and other family members, being able to touch base and share memories those who knew us when is so comforting. It’s been quite a year … and Contessa has had more than her fair share. There are brighter days ahead, but like you I don’t mind being alone … and find endless ways to entertain myself. I’m never bored. I do hope you write that book … in addition to cherishing old friends I cherish things from the past not only from my family but treasures I find here and there. I love the sound of your new favorite mock-tail … maybe I’ll make a video of this Spritzer a la Contessa! I received many requests for alcohol free drinks. xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 22, 2021 at 1:56 PM
  
  OH I WOULD LOVE THAT!
  PLUS I HAVE GLASSWARE I NEED TO GET TO YOU THAT WOULD WORK WELL!
  WE MUST GET TOGETHER FOR A PRACTICE RUN!
  XXX
donna m macdonald
· Reply

February 21, 2021 at 11:55 AM

Let me just say that I love the pictures of you! I used to model for Jordan Marsh in Boston and went to Charm School at Sears and Roebuck. Our mothers were always striving for us, weren’t they? Let me also say, I love your shorter haircut and I love your caftan. I’m going to see if I can buy one since I’ve lost 42 pounds since I last saw you.
- LA CONTESSA
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  February 22, 2021 at 9:06 AM
  
  CONGRATULATIONS on your weight LOSS!
  JENNAFER GRACE HAS SOME GOOD ONES NOT TOO PRICEY!CHECK HER OUT ON HER WEBSITE OR INSTAGRAM!
  She spells her name with an “A” so its not a TYPO!
  IT was fun going through the OLD CHILDHOOD ALBUM!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
D. A. Squires
· Reply

February 21, 2021 at 8:36 AM

Just read a comment from a 111 year old woman in the news who said her longevity and health are from wine, beer and good food. Period. Some of that is probably true, but in what quantities?!! : ) And I think enough cannot be said for the positive effect of having a sense of humor, despite the slings and arrows, AND loving pets. Betty White is the iconic grand dame of this way of living, and you tiptoe right behind in her footsteps!! I so hope you will prevail…a black and white Cardigan Corgi… YES!!! I have never owned one, but follow a couple of corgi twitter feeds and their adorability is off the charts. Downside is that puppies require so much work, and there are so many dogs in need of good homes.
When you write I am transported back in time… such a simpler time and one we will never return to… but we lived it and have the memories and for that I am grateful. One lost art that was mentioned is letter writing, and I must recommend a WONDERFUL book…the title alone is priceless, ‘Chickens, Gin, and a Maine Friendship’ …it is the correspondence exchanged between authors and good friends E.B. White and Edmund Ware Smith. You would love it.
Thinking of you and wishing all +++ results from tests… 2021 HAS TO BE the year of good health : ) XOXO
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 22, 2021 at 9:02 AM
  
  THE SUN IS OUT………….THINGS WILL LOOK UP!
  THAT BOOK SOUNDS LIKE A READ I WOULD ENJOY VERY MUCH!
  I am not ready for another BEASTIE yet………..AGAIN it has to work with the cat and the pig and that is an unusual situation!I cannot have THEODORE leaving HOME because of a new dog.SO, its going to take some time finding the right fit.perhaps an older dog who has lived with cats in the past.I WILL KNOW WHEN I SEE HIM OR HER!
  XOXO
Kathy L
· Reply

February 20, 2021 at 7:04 PM

I can relate to most of your summary of the past 11 months! I would sum up myself with these two words: flabby hermit. But 65+ was just opened up to vaccinations in MA, so I have my fingers crossed that I will be vaccinated and closer to resuming my normal life by the end of the year. Better days lie ahead with covid, vaccinations, spring and summer. PS: I like your new haircut and when you wear lighter lipsticks.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 22, 2021 at 8:57 AM
  
  THANK YOU!
  THAT IS GOOD NEWS WE ARE STILL WAITING FOR OUR AGE GROUP TO BE CALLED!
  People are so excited to be getting the vaccine!
  It’s worth the wait!
  XXX
Rosemarie
· Reply

February 20, 2021 at 1:34 PM

Forgot to comment that I do enjoy viewing all your belongings – such an intriguing variety.
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

February 19, 2021 at 10:18 AM

VIA EMAIL:
Dear Contessa,

Of all your delightful and brilliant posts, I think I like today’s best of all; maybe because it’s especially revealing — not that you’ve been keeping anything from us ! ! !

Your essay gives me the sense that you are unwittingly sharing even more of your kind soul, in ways even you are unaware — or maybe not.

For already considering you a generous and wise woman (friend), I think even more of you now, holding you in great esteem.

You made the most of this disastrous year and came out ahead.

Sincerely, thank you, and with affection,
Eve
Fran
· Reply

February 18, 2021 at 9:51 AM

OMGOODNESS CARISSIMA!! As I was reading, I found MYSELF nodding/ relating to/ agreeing with EVERYTHING You were describing about your daily life/ routine!! I just NEED that big closet YOU HAVE!! I, too, had WHITE DRESS SHOES when young – the buckle adorning each shoe on the top, was a PEACE SIGN. I MISS having photos with the date printed on the corners!! I actually MISS taking rolls of film into the pharmacy to get them DEVELOPED – the ANTICIPATION and WAITING for the DAY the photos were ready to be picked up was EXCITING!!….I JUST LOVE YOUR BLOG POSTS – YOU ALWAYS HAVE ME WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE….and btw. YOU STILL HAVE THAT BEAUTIFUL LITTLE FACE YOU SHOW IN YOUR PICTURES OF YESTERYEAR!! JUST BEAUTIFUL!!
I HOPE YOUR DAY OF TESTING AT CLINIC IS GOING WELL TODAY!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR EMAIL!! I WILL KEEP MY FINGERS CROSSED FOR YOU!!
PS. YOUR NEW DRESS ABOVE IS SO LOVELY WITH THE FLORAL PATTERN!! Is that the one you received for V. Day?
XX00Fran
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 19, 2021 at 9:55 AM
  
  NO!
  THE DRESS I RECEIVED FOR VALENTINES DAY WAS from a SHOP called JOHNNY WAS here in CALIFORNIA!
  THEY MAKE LONG DRESSES WITH FLOWERED MOTIFF’S VERY BOHEMIAN.I ADORE them because they are actually long enough and cover my ankles that MISTER BANKSY LOVES to BRUISE UP with HIS LOVE HITS!I had seen in their catalog and HINTED to THE ITALIAN and he jumped back at me saying YOU DO NOT NEED ONE MORE DRESS!!!WHich is true but when its so ME and PERFECT its hard to pass up as they do not come by VERY OFTEN!
  I TOO LOVED WAITING FOR THE FILM TO BE DEVELOPED………………….why do things have to change?I guess for GOOD REASONS but BUT BUT………………!!!!
  XOXO
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

February 18, 2021 at 8:04 AM

Thankyou , a wonderfully honest message on life during these strange times ! and ageing !
The crepy skin on neck and arms as it insidiously creeps in, loss of strength , muscle tone and energy.!!!!
Omg I have it all.and still the mind of a 40 yr old. I will be 79 this year, can’t believe it .
Your thoughts on possessions and whether children will want them , but we need these things around us in the meantime, they bring some of us so much pleasure.it’s a conundrum . Enjoy life , Thankyou again love your posts
JO
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 19, 2021 at 9:49 AM
  
  JO.
  YOUR comment ended up in a BIZARRE SPOT SO I HAVE COPIED AND PASTED IT HERE!
  YES YES YES………..and I think I’m STILL 18!!!!!!!!!!
  FUNNY HOW THAT WORKS……….I GUESS IT IS A GOOD THING!
  LOVED YOUR COMMENT!
  XXX
Jill James
· Reply

February 18, 2021 at 2:18 AM

An interesting year indeed , one we will never forget. The streamlined , minimalist home is certainly not you or me either for that matter. It is such a joy to enjoy our treasures collected over many years. I know what you mean about your boys now wanting your things , mine don’t either but I will enjoy them every day and not worry about it.
You were always a stunner , a very stylish little girl . Wonderful memories .
My dearest friend is from high school , now over 50 years ago.
My hope for you is that you have answers on the health front and you return to your vibrant self. Take care. xxx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 19, 2021 at 9:44 AM
  
  MY VIBRANT SELF………….IS LURCHING SOMEWHERE!!!
  THE GARDEN IS EXPLODING AND WITH THAT COMES SUNSHINE WHICH SHOULD HELP ME BIG TIME!
  THANK YOU FOR YOUR GOOD WISHES!
  XXX
Hilda Smith
· Reply

February 18, 2021 at 1:28 AM

I so look forward to your posts. What a year indeed. We did get away to a hotel with friends for a night twice last summer. It was when we had hardly any cases. But now we are back in lockdown big time since the end of December.
I agree with you. We can do this. And I cannot complain because we live near our daughters. And we look after our grandchildren. I read a lot at the moment and watch good telly in the evenings. And walk.
I hope you feel better soon. Love your house and garden.
HUGS
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 19, 2021 at 9:41 AM
  
  HILDA,
  YOU ARE SO LUCKY to have THE FAMILY SO CLOSE!
  THANK YOU for reading!I to ENJOY YOUR POSTS and am SO HAPPY THEY NOW ARRIVE IN MY INBOX!
  XXX
Rosemarie
· Reply

February 18, 2021 at 1:12 AM

Hi there CONTESSA
Enjoyed this post. Nice to see some of your childhood pics and learn a little bit of that time in your life.
It has been quite a year and I too think it could have been worse. I find as I age I am so thankful that there has not been a war.
Good reflection on your year. I think I will do that too.
I too am content to be at home. I have my outings/interactions but am glad to return home. I find that I have been really happy this past year. There is so much in our immediate world to enjoy. Thank you for sharing your’s.
No childhood friends – but a high school friend from the 1960s that I keep in contact with – we have a major get together 2x a year as she does not live in the city.
I got a chuckle re zero exercise and the body has never looked so good in the last 30 years.
I just read the book – The Woman Who Went to Bed For a Year – Sue Townsend. Funny. She had been wanting to shout – I want to get off! Her children left home and she went to bed. She refused to be the person everyone expected her to be.
Trust all will go well for you re your tests. When I went to have my colonoscopy I told the admitting clerk when she was putting the paper ID band on my left wrist that this is the wrist that I usually wear my diamond bracelets on. She thought that was so funny!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 18, 2021 at 8:01 AM
  
  GOOD LINE…………ABOUT THE DIAMONDS!LETS HOPE MINE HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR……………
  OFF I GO TO FINISH THAT DRINK AND TAKE GAS PILLS……….OH JOY!!!
  XXX
Taste of France
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February 18, 2021 at 12:39 AM

It was Kathleen Turner, I think, who said that in aging, you have to choose between your face or your butt. Gaining a little weight helps keep the wrinkles filled in naturally, but ruins one’s figure.
I think you look great. It sounds like you feel a bit better.
Your childhood photos are wonderful. I also had white go-go boots. It took decades for me to realize what my parents must have gone through to make that happen. Money was very tight in our house in the ’60s and ’70s.
My best friend, even today, is the first kid I ever met who wasn’t family. My mom spied the neighbor with a baby about the same age as me, and reached out. At first, we were just blobs lying together on a blanket in the back yard. We went to kindergarten, high school and university together, with many adventures. We are still friends and when we talk, it’s like the absence disappears.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 18, 2021 at 7:58 AM
  
  I am HAPPY I COME ACROSS AS FEELING BETTER AS I HAVE BEEN DEATHLY ILL THIS FEBRUARY!
  But I refuse to talk about it NOW……….I am doing better but NOT GRAND!
  MY MOTHER Always said you look YOUNGER with FAT so we all need to enjoy LIFE and the FOOD AND WINE IT OFFERS!
  I THINK YOU WON THE PRIZE IN THAT AREA!
  FRENCH GAL!
  XXX
Martha
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 9:27 PM

Hello Contessa,

I have pictures that could be shared side by side , with yours, but you being so much cuter!! I never looked good in hats and you look just darling!! I did however, sport quite a few brightly colored yarn‘s in my hair. Remember hip hugger skirts and poor boy shirts and go-go boots? That outfit wouldn’t of been complete without a brightly colored yarn in our hair!! I still have friends that date back to second grade! In fact we have a group of us that get together every year to celebrate our friendship. 2020, was exception because of course, there was no getting together with anyone!

This year has been crazy, I miss the travel although we have been able to do a lot of traveling up and down the state by car! We have an airstream trailer, that we keep up in the bay area and this week we will be heading off traveling with the Northern California Airstream group.

And I am so glad, that you won’t be joining any minimalist groups! I just don’t know how I could enjoy my house without the books and the art he pictures and the collections from all our travels. They make up, what I consider to be a well-rounded home!!

Enjoy February. I always think there’s some beautiful weather in February, which of course ( I feel) starts spring in the Bay Area!! We are already getting the start of spring blossoms in San Diego. I just noticed my Mexican read but it’s starting to bloom.

I enjoy your blog so much,
XOXO
Martha
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 18, 2021 at 7:54 AM
  
  MARTHA!
  THE GAL I FOUND ON INSTAGRAM who lived in my area but lives down SOUTH NOW and who it took me close to a year to figure out YOU SHOPPED IN MY LITTLE VINTAGE SHOP A MILLION YEARS AGO!!!
  I ADORE THESE ENCOUNTERS!
  SO OFF YOU GO WITH THE AIR STREAM GROUP!I would say STOP BY on your way back but I’m not my BEST These days!
  I feel we will have so much to CHAT ABOUT!
  San Diego,I spent a year in La Jolla!
  Bay Area……..KIDS ETC…………….what a JOY TO FIND YOU!
  XOXO
  - Martha Foss
    · Reply
    
    February 19, 2021 at 11:55 AM
    
    I feel so lucky, to find a new friend during a pandemic!!?
Heidi
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 3:21 PM

Hi Dear Elizabeth,
Well, you’ve had an interesting year, for sure. Haven’t we all? I’m sorry about the chickens but your health is so important. If your drs. find out it’s something else unrelated to the birds maybe you can get more?
At the beginning of this when more people were openly complaining, I just kept thinking of my mom’s stories of her hiding in cellars and running to bomb shelters (and stepping over people who had not made it to safety in time, when they were finally able to emerge) and go see if their homes were still standing. I have been so grateful that during all of this we have had absolutely everything and more than we need, and no threat of bombs being dropped on our heads. I do feel for those less fortunate and struggling to make ends meet. And to balance homeschooling and working from home must be really challenging. You’ve been aware of our struggles here with my husband’s employment etc. but it’s really been so much better than so many people experience every single day of their lives. I have no complaints. Of course, I look forward to the day when we can all get together with our friends and loved ones, eat, play, sing, laugh together. I miss going to the movies, and to museums. My favorite thing! But, I guess I’m more of an introvert than I realized, because the time at home has been mostly good for me! I’ve done a lot of straightening up, organizing and enjoying of all my stuff, my books, photo albums, all the weird little things I have around that I dearly love.
As far as your health goes, I’m so sorry you’ve been struggling, and hope your health team will soon have an answer that makes sense for you. It’s so frustrating and scary to not know what’s going on. Please just keep thinking positive thoughts and taking the best care of yourself that you are able. Those pics of you area adorable and you look so much the same. How nice that you still have the same friends. I don’t know anyone from my school days, not even college. I’m grateful for the new people in my life, and the ones who have stuck around the last 30 or so years!
That hair yarn brought back memories! I had it in multiple colors, and would tie a bow in each pigtail. So very elegant!! Ha! That and the knee socks that were always falling down…
Taking stock is a great idea and a wonderful way to see our blessings and appreciate how far we’ve come.If you do write a book I would like to be the one to illustrate it. Wouldn’t that be a fun project?
Lots of love to you,
Xo Heidi
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 18, 2021 at 7:43 AM
  
  YOUR HIRED!
  THANK YOU for THIS GORGEOUS COMMENT
  XOXO
Norah
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February 17, 2021 at 2:58 PM

Thank you, Contessa, for such beautifully articulate thoughts. No Marie Kondo for me either. I like the warmth and culture of having things around me that bring meaning and pick up with the nuances of life. Your words have me thinking of the many ways this past year has shaped my life and in some ways, I find gratitude.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 18, 2021 at 7:33 AM
  
  Well, then I have done GOOD!
  It’s been a scary time for some……..others continued on like nothing was going on!
  I would constantly get out of my car without MY MASK!I think because I was not OUT OFTEN.I would be thinking about what I needed and just forget until I would get close to the doors and say OPPS!Back I would GO………than I got smart and carried a few in my BASKET BAG!ALL BASIS COVERED!
  Now we are double masking here in CALIFORNIA.
  XXX
Ms. Mary
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 2:48 PM

I love how you look on the bright side. 🙂 You were an adorable child- no surprize there.
I do remember using that yarn in my hair. Had all the colors!
Good luck with the procedures tomorrow. Sending hugs and healing thoughts. <3
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 18, 2021 at 7:29 AM
  
  YES, we had all the colors to coordinate our outfits!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
cindy
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February 17, 2021 at 12:39 PM

I remember wearing the yarn in the hair. You were such an adorable child as well. I think many of your observations about the year are true. I have enjoyed my garden more, appreciated my home more, and enjoyed our time at the lake as well. I miss travelling and seeing friends but we have been some of the lucky ones. I think you do need to get a new pooch. Will you get another Corgi? How about a lab to paly with Beau?I am so glad you are getting to the bottom of some of your health issues. You will soon get your vaccine as well. Help is coming!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:25 PM
  
  I will get another pooch for sure.
  Maybe a black and white Cardigan Corgi this time to match BANKSY!Although, the ITALIAN would like his preferred BOXER.
  I would be HAPPY with any ANIMAL that needs a home.
  HA!I shall ask tomorrow as I await MY PROCEDURES if there is COVID VACCINE IN THE HOUSE I CAN HAVE!
  THAT WOULD BE A REALLY GOOD DAY if that were to HAPPEN!
  XXX
judith
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 11:22 AM

It has been a rough year for many of us. How nice that you can find things to appreciate anyway. We have all been thrust into a new way of living and I wonder how much of these new ways will linger on with us after things return to “normal.” Whatever that may be. I predict many of us will find that we are permanently changed. I am thankful to have reconnected with a few old friends and some cousins, have cooked a few new things, have found that I love my yard and gardens more than I did already, and learned that I can stick this out, however long it lasts. I especially love the comfort that comes from being home. I worry about children being isolated from their friends and the elderly being kept from family visitors for their own safety. I worry about the economy and some of the small businesses. And I am sad the loss of all of the people who would still be here otherwise. But I keep going back to the positive, to looking forward, and to hope for a better future after this awful time has passed. May you pass your tests tomorrow with flying colors – I will be thinking of you and cheering you on, Contessa. Be well.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:17 PM
  
  THANK YOU!
  I Know I owe you an EMAIL………….Don’t GIVE UP ON ME!
  Gotta get through tomorrow…………XXX
Parnassus
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 11:19 AM

Hello Contessa, Yes, phooey on sterile or neutral environments! I love looking around my house–each item connects with a certain person or special memory. I still have your Christmas card in my living room, brightening up the place! Since I collect in two places, I keep a file of things that were sent to Ohio, and I enjoy going through that on occasion. I love seeing pictures of the younger you–you never seem to have aged in any important way–always the same looks and demeanor.

By the way, Happy Chinese New Year! I hope that this year of the Ox is a healthful and peaceful one for you!
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:14 PM
  
  I AM SO READY FOR A HEALTHFUL AND QUIET YEAR!
  IAM READY FOR SPRING AND THE SUN!
  BANKSY SENDS GREETINGS AS HE IS SUNBATHING RIGHT NOW OUTSIDE ON THE SMALL STONES!
  YOU MADE MY DAY WITH YOUR WORDS!” You never seem to have aged in any important way”!
  THANK YOU and I’m TICKLED you still have my CARD OUT!
  TIME FOR A NEW CARD!
  I’ll work on that this SPRING!
  THANKS Jim,
  XXX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 10:41 AM

Write a book? What a great idea. Go for it. We’d all buy one. Yes, I’m still in touch with my friends from Junior High School. We just zoomed last weekend. We’re all over the place but we an get together on zoom.

Love your bangs and Louise Brooks look. Goodness did this much happen this year? It seems like yesterday.

So write that book!!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:07 PM
  
  I do not have the STORIES YOU HAVE TO TELL…………..I wouldn’t know where to begin!
  XX
Lorna
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 10:22 AM

Oh the car! Don’t mention that, I haven’t cleaned it in months. Shameful, I know. I think we’ve all learnt more about ourselves during 2020. Lots of time to sit and stare at our navel, as they say. So sorry you had to give up your birds. I know they meant a lot to you. But Banksy and Theo should cheer you up big time.
I am so glad it’s Wednesday and the weekend is close. Sometimes I wish I could shut the door on work and never return.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:05 PM
  
  WILL YOU EVER TELL US WHAT YOU DO?
  OR IS IT TOP SECRET?
  THE CAR IS THE LAST THING ON MY CLEANING LIST!IT’s JUST ME and I really donot care that I travel with baskets and a few crumbs!GET that TEENAGER TO CLEAN FOR YOU!
  XXX
Mary Ann Pickett
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 9:52 AM

You have learned so much about yourself…a time of introspection. I think our world needed to slow down.
Miss you!!
Mary Ann
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:01 PM
  
  I AGREE it has been a GOOD re-set for some!
  XXX
kim
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 9:13 AM

Elizabeth,
Thank you for sharing this sweet post. Love the cute photos of you as a girl.. You still look the same! I am sorry you have struggled so much with the health stuff, but you are always still finding joy. You are so right this past year at home has been one of a lot of discovery- what we need and don’t to be happy. Glad your things are bringing you joy. It wouldn’t be the Contessa’s lair all minimalistic! I am so ready for it to stay lighter later.. Right now I am obsessed with ‘All things Great and Small’ on PBS are you watching/ A beautiful and uplifting show. As far as books I am reading, This Time Next Year We’ll Be Laughing.’ A memoir of an English family.I hope that will be true for us too. xoxo Kim
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 2:00 PM
  
  HAVE BEEN TOLD TO WATCH THAT SHOW BUT THAT ITALIAN LIKES THE SHOOT THEM UP BANG BANG MOVIES!I may have to turn that TV on in the day time!
  Book sounds really GOOD TO ME!
  You were going to send me a book………..I have forgotten the TITLE NOW!
  XOXO
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

February 17, 2021 at 9:06 AM

VIA EMAIL:

Good morning! Just want you to know that you so eloquently expressed my EXACT sentiments about the Pandemic! I started with the same thought as you….”this is nothing like WW 2 and the bombing in London!”. We can do this! Then all the thoughts and decisions you have come to after a year in our homes….same, same as me. I have enjoyed all my “stuff” as well…..really have no need for more and have enjoyed giving some away too. It’s a refreshing feeling to purge a bit!

Thank you for such a beautiful and meaningful blog, dear Contessa! And I had no idea you were a soul that enjoys being alone! There we differ….but that is fine too. But I have learned to be alone and enjoy it too…thru the last year. Also had to adjust to a husband who is now home more than he is at work (retired?) or on his bike roaming the hills and dales. I think we worked out the kinks….and will be together to the end of times!

We are expecting No. 9 at that end of July. Oh me, oh my….here we go again. But being 11 years older since the first one….I know I will be a different Nana this time around for this little person. Oh well…that’s life and I am happy to go along with it. Just truly grateful to be alive and breathing!!

That’s all from this Rancho around the corner and down the lane!

Always,

Lady Di
Andrea Serrahn
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 8:31 AM

When life gives us lemons, make lemonade! What a beautifully articulated and optimistic view of our viral prison and intimate home. Your frankness of the trials and tribulations of this year’s wear and tear is somehow amusing. It carries the optimism of a future renaissance. Loved this read!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 1:57 PM
  
  IF the clothing comes back from the RENAISSANCE I’m ALL IN!
  BANKSY is finally OUTSIDE SUN BATHING TODAY!HE HAS BEEN MY CONSTANT COMPANION during this cold wet spell.
  XXX
Penelope
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 8:19 AM

Dear Elizabeth,.
Thank you for sharing your take, your joys and sorrows in this very strange year we have had. I really am so glad you push back against all the Marie Kondoing pressure I hear and read all around me. I too prefer an environment layered with memories, art, patterns, antiques and textures where one can leave out some books or a pair of slippers without ruining the ambiance. I feel no compunction to winnow out my possessions to alleviate my children’s task after I pass. Then and only then they can throw out the whole lot if they wish. Till then don’t diminish me bit by bit.
I too have been at home and pretty much content. I feel for those who do not know where their next meal is coming from or who are homeschooling while working from home. I have my first vaccine and look forward to having some cautious visits with the grandchildren when the immunization period is complete.
Most of all, I wish you health. Your disease sounds fittingly elegant but still a challenge. All best wishes! XOXO
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 1:53 PM
  
  “DONT DIMINISH ME BIT MY BIT!”
  THAT IS SO SPOT ON PENELOPE!
  MY disease is anything but elegant………I have been terribly ill from the medication I believe!Now off the medicine………and waiting for another two procedures.I am so tired of talking about my health!Perhaps, COVID is my way out…………(KIDDING!)
  My sister in law and her two sons got carbon monoxide poisoning today in their new house in Italy from the heater!
  This year just keeps on spilling out bad things!
  XXX
lisa thomson-author
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 8:05 AM

Those childhood photos of you are absolutely precious. You look the same. It must be the inner attitude and beauty shining through. The knee socks! I recall wearing some similar but I don’t think they stayed up well. 🙂 I was such a tom boy, I don’t remember playing ‘dress up’ or with dolls. Teddy bears, YES. I was often mistaken for a boy.
My bestie is one I met in second grade. WE became close friends in third grade and we still have lunch every couple of months. I took a trip to Melbourne, Australia with her (my son was living there) and we’re still friends. That says a lot. Also zooming weekly with middle school girlfriends that also includes bestie. So we have connected even stronger since the pandemic. But But But…We miss getting together in person as our girls’ weekends were truly epic.
Well, I could go on but I’m pretty boring over all. I love that you are surrounded by things you have collected and that is what we’re supposed to be in our homes. Never mind M Kondo. Boring, boring, boring.
Hello to Banksy and the Italian. Much love xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 12:08 PM
  
  MY SON has purchased an old FORD TRUCK and I told him my GRANDPA had that truck in RED in INDIANA when I was a child!So, I went through the BABY ALBUM to see what I could find!Needless, to say I got side tracked by OLD PHOTOS and started sending off to these girlfriends!I can still recall these pictures being TAKEN!!!!
  A HOME IS A HOME!
  ITS A COLLECTION OF YEARS!
  I just gave BANKSY A KISS FROM YOU!
  XXX
fifi
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February 17, 2021 at 7:40 AM

Such a lovely post. Filled with the sweetest anecdotes and gentle melancholy but also reminders that at least some of us had less trauma in 2021 than many others.
Indeed, much has changed since our younger days. And in one way or another the decisions we made back then have impacted the course of our lives.
My lovely friend you are only 60 and have many many more happy years ahead . Make the most of it. Trust me. I am not saying that lightly. I will be 76 this year and I am still hopeful, though I know time will probably interfere with my plans. But as long as I can create books that bring beauty and inspiration I will feel that, in some way, I am contributing a pleasurable escape to kindred spirits.
And you, my beautiful Contessa, please keep sharing your blog with us. Your posts are always inspiring and entertaining. You are loved and we need you.
xoxoxoxo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 11:51 AM
  
  I WILL MAKE THE MOST OF IT AND HOPE THINGS TURN AROUND FOR THE BETTER…………..
  I feel the same way Fifi as I know I touch a few lives out there and people are fascinated with THE PIGGY which only brings GREAT JOY TO US!He has become a HOUSE BOY as its been too cold to exit and take a stroll in the GARDEN!AS the ITALIAN says we are TWO OF A KIND!WE LOVE OUR BEDS AND CAN STAY IN THEM ALL DAY!
  I APPRECIATE YOUR WORDS………………I AM HERE FOR YOU!
  XOXOXO
Barbara Ann
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February 17, 2021 at 6:32 AM

Thank you for sharing your year with us. I reflect back on how being forced to slow down has actually made my life better. The busy busy that we Americans are so proud of really is a cover for not really “living” our lives. Just my thought on that.

Yes! Do write a book on buying and living with what we love. Let’s fill our lives with beauty!

I’ve been reading your blog for awhile now and this is the first time I’ve commented. Thank you for taking your time to share your light with us.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 11:04 AM
  
  I AGREE WITH YOU!
  WE AMERICANS WERE SO BUSY DOING VERY LITTLE LIVING!! I realized that when we moved back from ITALY in the early 1990’s.
  OH A BOOK…………I do not think I have enough to write about but its fun to think about!
  THANK YOU FOR COMMENTING AS IT MAKES IT ALL WORTHWHILE IF I HEAR BACK FROM THOSE WHO ARE READING!
  Otherwise, its as if I am talking to MYSELF!!!
  XXX
Mary James
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 5:54 AM

Loved the trip down memory lane. The swim suits remind me of the one my mother made for me in the 50’s -course in 1966 I was headed to Kenya at the age of 16. When I saw you were six…oh mama Mia…. Yes, those were the days of imagination indeed without the internet and t.v. Sucking our lives out of us.
I wrote 15-20 letters a week to friends (no cell phones then), and my best friend and I kept in contact via letters, and today by phone and internet and are still in contact these 60 years later. I believe those days of letter writing connected people in ways that electronics cannot, and as such I have friends that go back that far. Friendship like marriage is a job…gotta keep it going and close to the heart. I am going through letters from the 1800’s from my Great Grandfather, and ones I wrote my parents when I came to the U.S. It is quite a trip down memory lane.
We have so much to be thankful for, and not harp on the negative which we hear and see daily. Spread the joy, laugh, dance, sing…but most of all love.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 10:58 AM
  
  WHAT A LIFE MARY YOU HAVE HAD………..AND ARE STILL ENJOYING!
  YOU ARE RIGHT “FRIENDSHIP LIKE MARRIAGE is A JOB!’
  Most things that are worthwhile require an effort!
  SOME of these things are not taught anymore!
  XXX
Tara Dillard
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February 17, 2021 at 5:34 AM

Wish I lived near. After massacre, I have one chicken. Decided first day, not to name my chickens. Last girl, is, OMEGA. She’ll be 9 in April.

We’re having the best time !! Would have taken yours….seriously. I got Omega thru her grief, losing her flock. And Omega got me thru my grief, losing my flock, excepting her.

Woo Woo, would have bought that dress with bouquet too.

Cooking? Have perfected, with Jaques Pepin, refrigerator pickled mixed vegetables. Makes huge JAR, bought back in the day at TJMaxx, lasts for weeks. Gave me confidence to invent refrigerator pickled black bean salad. A winner. On the inspiration, I keep a glass pitcher of refrigerator pickled boiled eggs. Adoring fast food at home. Easy to make full meals……….with variety of homemade soups in freezer… fresh fruit finale !

Not for everyone, but I ate lemons straight…………..as a kid. Loved VINEGAR on my salads….little else.

Small island in Galveston Bay, a few houses down, was my personal playground growing up. STORIES………….there.

That small island is now fenced, for decades, 10′ metal with razor wire. UNSAFE. DANGEROUS. That island is part of who I am.

Need the TALENTS of Gwen Frostic, poet, to write about that ISLAND and put it to her art, block prints, http://www.GwenFrostic.com .

Will have to ‘CHANNEL’ those talents……………….do it myself…………….for myself. Miss you Gwen.

If you’ve never heard of her………………Discovered Gwen Frostic at the Family Lakehouse, on a bookshelf….probably in my 30’s. Now, Contessa’s age. Love that bit. Have given Gwen Frostic’s books as gifts; probably equal to, My Utmost For His Highest, Oswald Chambers….in quantity.

Appreciate your deeply thought, felt……….list of ‘life’.

DVF recently did same…………

Garden & Be Well, XO T
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 10:54 AM
  
  OH THAT DVF AND I ARE TWO PEAS IN A POD!
  EXCEPT SHE MARRIED A REAL COUNT!THEN INVENTED THAT WRAP DRESS!
  OMEGA!DO I DARE ASK WHERE OMEGS SLEEPS?WHAT A BOUT THE CATS………….?
  MEMORIES ARE GOOD THINGS TO HAVE……………
  I LIKE YOUR FAST FOOD AT HOME METHOD!
  BRAVA!
  XXX
Jan
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 5:26 AM

This post was like a whiff of spring here in coastal CT, where we’re awaiting yet another snow storm. I’m a new follower. I’m 80 years old but think I’m 60 years old!! Thank you for your thoughts. XO
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:53 AM
  
  I HAVE A SON THERE NOW!HE IS Suppose to be driving back cross country BUT HE BETTER WAIT THIS STORM OUT!!!
  IAM DELIGHTED TO MEET YOU JAN!
  Are you on INSTAGRAM?HEAD over and find SANDRA SALLIN she is your AGE and has a wonderful entertaining instagram page!
  SHE HAS MORE ENERGY THAN I DO!HER BLOG is……….. APART FROM MY ART.
  MAYBE START THERE!
  WE WILL GET YOU THROUGH THIS STORM!
  XXX
Janey
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February 17, 2021 at 4:26 AM

You look beautiful Elizabeth. We have all had a crazy year. Miss my friends and especially my kids visiting. We haven’t been as careful as most. We trekked to our mountain house for the summer (CO)…and especially missed the usual social life there. We did drive to NC in the Fall and met daughter and kids at a rental in the Blue Ridge Mtn. When we got home we braved going to a friend’s house for lunch. Stricken when they were both diagnosed the next day. We escaped being positive but scared the fire out of us…no more taking chances from Nov. on. Both holidays alone.
We have had both shots now but still trapped by a horrible artic cold front that has brought N. Texas to it’s knees.
Have reserved a luxury apt. In Paris with glorious views of the tower…but it is for Spring of ‘22 surely life will be back to normal by then.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:48 AM
  
  WELL,YOU ARE VERY VERY LUCKY AND TO HAVE GOTTEN BOTH OF YOUR SHOTS WELL DONE!
  THE PARIS APARTMENT WILL BE THERE…………..WAITING FOR YOU!!
  STILL TAKE CAUTION WITH THE SHOTS.THIS IS GOING TO BE AROUND FOR AWHILE.It’s not going to MAGICALLY disappear overnight.Plan your days and what you want to see in PARIS!I enjoy the planning stages almost MORE than the trip!!
  XXX
Karen Persson
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February 17, 2021 at 4:14 AM

Thank you for summing up your year! Of course I was tagging along with your posts and I’m so glad you have an Instagram account again. Hope you don’t lose anymore weight, though! You’ll disappear. You always look lovely and I do love your hair this length. I had the white go go boots, too! From the Mod fashions!

It must be so hard without your chickens and birds but your health is so important. Can’t wait to see you again.. This coming summer it’ll work out, I hope.

Sending much love and a big hug,

Karenxoxoxo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:35 AM
  
  SUMMER WILL BE HERE IN A BLINK OF AN EYE!
  THE FRUIT TREES HERE IN CALIFORNIA ARE BLOOMING!!!
  DAFFODILS ARE BURSTING FOURTH OUT OF THE GROUND………I ADORE THIS TIME OF YEAR AND SUMMER!
  SEE YOU THEN!
  XOXO
  - Karen Persson
    · Reply
    
    February 17, 2021 at 1:25 PM
    
    Sounds so wonderful! Can’t wait to see your house and garden again!
    
    Btw, I forgot to answer a question you asked about childhood friends. Yes, I have friends I’ve known since I was 6 years old!
    
    xoxoxo
Miche
· Reply

February 17, 2021 at 1:05 AM

Good evening Contessa,
The year in review is a concept we have followed for the last 3 decades. My husband writes it and I add the stuff he has left out or forgotten.
We started the year with travel plans for France for the middle of the year, which were changed to later in the year and then left without a start date.
My favourite aunt was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer in February, we had a short five day trip to Melbourne to visit her just before lockdown was declared. She died in November. We were unable to attend her funeral in person. We watched it live through our laptop.
I retired from paid employment in June and worked in my garden, planted new trees, dug up plants that we not doing well and put them in pots, propagated cuttings and planted the results. Started composting, tended my worm farm.
We said good bye to our much beloved 16 year old dog Tifa in the middle of the year and though we were determined not to have another dog, we found our house empty without one. We welcomed Poppy ( a 2 year old failed farm dog) into our lives in September and since then our lives have revolved around her. She is the reason I exercise.
I am learning to slow down, enjoy the moment and relax. I am a work in progress.
Cheers Miche
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:32 AM
  
  IT TAKES TIME MICHE TO LEARN HOW TO SLOW DOWN ESPECIALLY AFTER SUCH A FULL LIFE.IAM SO SORRY for YOUR LOSSES THIS PAST YEAR…….I am headed for a COLONOSCOPY and ENDOSCOPY tomorrow.Let’s hope they find NOTHING TO REPORT ABOUT!
  I LIKE THE FACT YOU ARE A “WORK IN PROGRESS!”
  WE ALL ARE……….and should be HAPPY To have another DAY with POPPY AND BANKSY!
  THANK YOU FOR WRITING!!
  XXX
Randi
· Reply

February 16, 2021 at 7:25 PM

So amazing to document your year in writing. You have inspired me. Never will we have a year again like this…I hope! I have cherished my daily morning walks alone with music in my ears. Almost like my meditation time. The only truly alone time I get…and it happened to be my social life too because everyone else in my neighborhood is out walking also. Although I’m rarely alone, the huge positive of this year has been all of the uninterrupted family time we have had. We have slowed down big time and I am grateful for that. Sending you a big hug!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:26 AM
  
  OH< I CAN SEE ALL OF YOU OUT THERE ON THE BLUFFS ZOOMING BY EACH OTHER AND THEN GETTING A COFFEE? YOU have a VERY BUSY DAY with HOME SCHOOLING THREE CHILDREN and doing all YOUR OTHER JOBS! GLAD YOU HAVE YOUR OWN TIME!I have said it before and I will say it again........ENJOY THIS TIME WITH KIDS AT HOME Because that day will come when there is NO REASON to JUMP OFF THAT BED AND START RUNNING!!IT becomes too quiet.......at least for me!Mornings without lunches and lost shoes and Homework seems like a million years ago to me now. I can HONESTLY SAY that was THE BEST TIME of MY LIFE! XXX
Sarahlondonstyle
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February 16, 2021 at 7:02 PM

What a great idea. To review our lives yearly (if we don’t already). Has made me realise a few things too..
I am happier if I start my day with exercise! I prefer a slower pace! I like my own cooking! I love my dog more than ever! I rarely get bored…
Stay safe
Sarah xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:18 AM
  
  ALL GOOD THINGS…………….and Of course you do not get BORED you have THAT CLOSET to arrange for its NEXT VIDEO!!
  Plus, you are heading off to work which is your HAPPY PLACE I THINK!
  EXERCISE IS GOOD and the LOVE OF AN ANIMAL IS SO IMPORTANT!I NEED TO LOOK INTO GETTING ANOTHER FOUR LEGGED BEASTIE!
  XXX
Pipistrello
· Reply

February 16, 2021 at 5:24 PM

Ciao Bella,

Your new haircut is very reminiscent of your ’66 ‘do – and one can see You quite clearly in that pic, right down to the animal print cossie (as we call them here). How delightful you are still in touch with some childhood friends! My oldest friendship only goes back 37 years … crikey, I just had to figure that out and was shocked as I felt sure we only celebrated our Ruby Anniversary of friendship (30) a year or so ago!! Gah, a slippery slope, this time passing business.

There’s not been too many revelations in this household but I hear you on being over your own cooking. Mr. P has stepped into the fray the past couple of weeks and I’ve not murmured one word of protest. And I had to get a haircut yesterday as the Crazy Cat-Lady Look was getting too much. As for the ageing form … yes, I’m most certainly my mother’s daughter, down to the lines on our faces!

The best I can describe things in my world, where life is not tough as you and the rest-of-the-world are experiencing it, is we all just do less. Which is nice, and old-fashioned, and manageable. Busy, busy seems to be off the agenda for everyone I seem to know. Not that I’ve ever been the social butterfly, but this new slow-downed life suits me quite well. Books are being read but not in the quantities I expected and small projects undertaken but there doesn’t seem to be any imperative to rush through to complete them. Things will get done when they get done. And if they don’t, well, too bad!

Baci xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  February 17, 2021 at 9:14 AM
  
  CIAO BELLISIMA…….
  YES, THE ITALIAN TOO TAKES CONTROL OF THE KITCHEN ON THE WEEKENDS SOMETIMES WHICH IS COMPLETELY REFRESHING!Last weekend he made bread and smoked Salmon and made a chicken broth to freeze.THANK GOODNESS FOR MEN WHO COOK!He doesnot like going OUT TO DINNER as he says we can eat better at HOME!Which is true BUT once in awhile we need to HELP THE ECONOMY!!I think we have gotten TAKE OUT FOUR TIMES IN THIS LAST YEAR……..due to me BEGGING!
  YOUR ISLAND DID EVERYTHING RIGHT IN THE BEGINNING!SO, IMPRESSIVE!!KUDOS TO YOUR LEADERS……………
  YOU LIVE IN A BEAUTIFUL SPOT OF THE WORLD!
  XXX