COLORFUL MUSINGS

November 27, 2023 62 Comments

Today is November 27, 2023 and I am writing to YOU from my small GREEN WALLED OFFICE.

Ancient embroidered footstool at my feet and a dog bed under my desk with a very TIRED ORANGE TABBY CURLED UP IN IT!Who has claimed the NEW BED verses who it was bought for the PIGGY who we now call OLAF. OR perhaps BETTY the ROTTWEILER in house SECURITY TEAM!

OLAF RIPPED UP HIS NEW BED UPON IT’S ARRIVAL!

SMELL OR COLOR WOULD BE THE PROBLEM THERE. I WOULD SAY IT WAS THE SMELL OF THE PET SHOP ON IT!I DO RECOMMEND BUYING STRAIGHT FROM A WAREHOUSE AS THE ANIMALS THEY DONOT SEEM TO LIKE OR PERHAPS LIKE TOO MUCH THE SCENT OF OTHERS ON THEIR BEDDING!

BETTY TOO WENT BALLISTIC WITH THE SMELLS ON THE BED!

Then again it was BEIGE!!!!!!!!

AS YOU CAN SEE FROM THE PLACEMENT OF THE PAWS BETTY IS READY TO CLIMB THE STAIRWAY TO THE LOFT TO CHECK ON THINGS!

LOTS OF ACTION GOING ON UP YONDER!

BIRDIES IS A SHOE BRAND OUT OF San Francisco.ACTUALLY THE TWO LADIES WHO STARTED IT LIVE VERY CLOSE TO ME IN THE NEXT TOWN OVER.WHERE I HAD MY ANTIQUE SHOP FOR 12 YEARS.I CAN REMEMBER THEM AT THE GARDEN TOURS SELLING THEIR SHOES AS THEY WOULD ALWAYS HAVE A FEW VENDORS SET UP TO CATCH YOUR EYE AFTER VIEWNG THE WONDERFUL GARDENS.

I WAS PULLED IN BUT DIDNOT BUY OR MAYBE I DID ONCE!

I HAVE TO SAY FOR THE PRICE AND THE FACT THEY ARE FLATS I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN ATTRACTED TO THEM.THESE ARE MY LATEST PURCHASE.VELVET, ONE OF MY FAVORITE FABRICS AND THIS GREEN COLOR IS SO GLORIOUS!

DON’T YOU LOVE THE GREEN AND PURPLE TOGETHER?

TWO OF MY FAVORITE COLORS.

SPEAKING OF COLOR I RECENTLY EXITED THE CASA IN A COLORFUL DISPLAY OF…………

YOU FILL IN THE WORD!

I WAS GIFTED THIS COAT/KIMONO/ROBE BY A LITTLE SHOP IN South Africa YEARS AGO!

I USUALLY WEAR IT AS A ROBE BUT THIS DAY I FELT I NEEDED A LIFT TO MY MOOD!

IT WAS THE RIGHT WEIGHT.YET WARM.

I WAS OFF TO BE WIRED UP FOR A HOLTER MONITOR FOR 24 HOURS.

( A HOLTER MONITOR IS A SMALL,WEARABLE DEVICE THAT RECORDS THE HEART’S RHYTHM.

IT IS USED TO DETECT OR DETERMINE THE RISK OF IRREGULAR HEARTBEATS (ARRHYTHMIAS).

AND IS THE ONLY WAY TO GET A CORRECT READING IF YOU HAVE PVC’s.

OF YOUR PULSE!

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)

are extra abnormal heartbeats that begin in the ventricles, or lower pumping chambers, and disrupt your regular heart rhythm,sometimes causing you to feel a skipped beat or palpitations.

Thats my ironing on the red chair!

OPPS!

The LARGE BASKET UP TOP is a champagne grape basket.It started its LIFE in FRANCE and will most likely end its LIFE in AMERICA!

UNLESS I PICK UP AND LEAVE THE USA!

That mess of PAPER is scratch, drawing, list making and thank you cards along with ADDRESS BOOKS!

How many ADDRESS BOOKS do you own?I have two for the USA and one for ITALY and my MOTHER’s and one for GARDEN CLUB.YOU would think I could scale it back to JUST ONE!

NOT THAT SIMPLE!

WHY IS PAPER SUCH A PROBLEM AND A MESS?

ARE you like me do you use the FIRST NAME or the LAST NAME to find who you are looking for?

For me it depends on which BOOK!

I made TWO PIES for THANKS GIVING as we were invited out!

One a classic PECAN and the OTHER A CHOCOLATE PECAN PIE WITH BOURBON!

WHO CAN GUESS WHO’s COOKBOOK I USED!

I’ll give you a clue…………

She had a BLOG once UPON A TIME that had EVERYONES ATTENTION!

SHE WAS A PISTOL ON FIRE ABOUT INTERIORS AND DECORUM and anything else that CROSSED HER PATH!

GAWD I MISS HER RANTS AND KNOWLEDGE!

SHE WAS A GEM.

TABLE SET FOR ONE.

HAVE YOU EVER TASTED NUTELLA ON BREAD?

IT’s an ITAliAN THING!

GUESS WHO?

I CAN STILL RECALL THIS PHOTO BEING TAKEN!

I STILL HAVE PETER RABBIT!

MY DRESS WAS BLACK VELVET.

I can remember too my MOTHER brushing my hair!

It always HURT!

Those knee socks never stayed up!

Hope they have made progress in that DEPARTMENT!

IT WAS SO ANNOYING!

EVEN FOR A TWO YEAR OLD!

A week ago or more I decided to go off of INSTAGRAM and REST my eyes and brain of all the scrolling and commenting and LOVING I DO!I have posted DAILY for most of the 14 years I have been on it!Can you BELIEVE it has been around for that LONG?I wish I could remember the woman who walked into my shop and told me I REALLY NEEDED TO BE ON IT!SHE WENT ON AND ON ABOUT HOW BEAUTIFUL THE PHOTOGRAPHS WERE…………

THAT’S WHAT INTRIGUED ME!

PHOTOS AND BEAUTY.

I DO THINK I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO HAVE BEEN ANOTHER ANNIE LEIBOVITZ!

IT’S THE CREATIVITY THAT I ADORE…….BACKGROUND, SETTING, BRINGING THE OUTSIDE INDOORS!

ANYHOW, I SAID FAREWELL FOR NOW AND THE COMMENTS THAT CAME THROUGH REALLY TOUCHED ME!

HERE IS ANOTHER COMMENT BELOW!

OF THE 135 COMMENTS THAT WERE LEFT FOR ME……………I SMILED READING ALL OF THEM.

INSTAGRAM HAS BEEN A WONDERFUL,WONDERFUL MEETING UP PLACE especially for us older folks!

I HAVE TO SAY I AM MORE RELAXED AND NOT REACHING FOR THE PHONE AS OFTEN.I AM NOT A PERSON WHO CARRIES HER PHONE AROUND FROM ROOM TO ROOM BUT I WOULD GLANCE TO SEE WHAT WAS GOING ON OVER THERE ON THE GRAM!

BEAUTY SURE BEATS CLEANING THE HOUSE OR DOING LAUNDRY……………

AS A CHILD I WAS INTERESTED IN BALLET,ARCHEOLOGY,FASHION,PHOTOGRAPHY AND BECOMING A VETERINARIAN.

BALLET I WAS NOT GOOD ENOUGH AND WAY TO TALL OR SO THEY SAID BACK IN THE 1970’S.

ARCHEOLOGY, I LOVED THE IDEA OF THE DIG AND FINDING OLD STUFF,BUT LIVING IN A TENT DID NOT APPEAL AT ALL!

FASHION GRABBED ME FROM THE MOMENT VOQUE AND HARPERS BAZAAR LANDED IN OUR MAILBOX!BUT TO BE TRUELY HONEST IT WAS HOW THEY SHOT THE PHOTO THE BACKGROUND AND WHAT PROPS WERE USED!I KNEW AT A VERY YOUNG AGE WHAT I COULD WEAR AND WHAT I COULD NOT WEAR………OF COURSE MY MOTHER HAD OTHER IDEAS!

PHOTOGRAPHY, I GAVE IT A MOMENTS THOUGHT.TOO MANY LENSES AND ADJUSTMENTS WITH NUMBERS!BOTTOM LINE MATH WAS INVOLVED SO FORGET THAT IDEA!

A VET WAS A BIG DREAM………….BUT PEOPLE KEPT TELLING ME I HAD TO BE GOOD IN CHEMISTRY!

I NEVER REALLY LOOKED INTO IT AS THAT MADE SENSE TO ME BUT THAT SCARED ME AWAY.

ARE YOU HAPPY WITH HOW YOUR LIFE TURNED OUT OR ARE YOU STILL WORKING ON IT TO MAKE THOSE DREAMS COME TRUE?

THINK ABOUT IT FOR A DAY OR TWO AND LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW.

I THINK WE CAN ALL BENEFIT FROM EACH OTHERS WORDS AND THOUGHTS AND DREAMS!

I FINALLY HAD TO GO TO CUSTOMER SERVICE AT MY MEDICAL FACILITY AND POLITELY LET THEM KNOW THAT THE STAFF NEEDS MORE TACK AND BETTER SKILLS WHEN DEALING WITH US OVER 60 FOLKS!

WHEN I AM WAITING FOR A BLOOD PRESSURE READING TO TAKE PLACE AND THE OLDER GENTLEMAN HAS BEEN WAITING MUCH LONGER THAN ME AND THEY CALL ME IN FIRST AND I EXPLAN NICELY (NO CAPS) OR YELLING THAT HE WAS HERE BEFORE ME PLEASE TAKE HIM AS HE HAS BEEN WAITING LONGER THAN I.

I RECEIVED THIS AS AN ANSWER……”HE ISNOT ON MY SCHEDULE!”

“Plus SHE ADDS,” I am helping another woman.”

SHIT HITS THE FAN WITH YOUR CONTESSA!

I TELL HER “GOOD JOB YOU ARE DOING WHAT IS CALLED MULTI-TASKING!”

I MARCHED DOWNSTAIRS TO THE VOLUNTEERS TO SEE WHERE I COULD GO TO COMPLAIN.

ONCE I HAVE BEEN GIVEN FOURTH FLOOR DIRECTIONS I HEAD UP FUMING AND ON FIRE!

YOU ALL WOULD HAVE BEEN PROUD OF ME.

I FELT GREAT THE REST OF THE DAY!

I EVEN GOT EYE ROLLS FROM CUSTOMER SERVICE WHO WAS WRITING EVERYTHING I SAID LONG HAND! SO YOU KNOW THEY UNDERSTOOD WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT!PLUS SHE WAS IN OUR AGE GROUP!

LET IT FLY ONCE IN AWHILE…………..it gets the BLOOD MOVING JUST FINE!

OH MY GOSH IT IS HERE!

HOLIDAY TIME.

I have already started wrapping gifts!

Guess who I found opening a gift today?

MASTER PIGGY………OLAF,was able to get a wrapped GIFT off the bed and the ribbon off and STARTED THE FUN!He did not TOUCH THE ITEM as I found him in TIME!

Now what about the TREE?

He is in TODDLER MODE AND A CHRISTMAS TREE FILLED WITH GLASS ORNAMENTS WILL BE A NEW ADVENTURE!LET’S HOPE THE ITALIAN CAN COME UP WITH A SOLUTION!I say we hang the tree upside down from the beams so the SPECIAL ORNAMENTS can be HIGHER!

ALL SUGGESTIONS WELCOME!

GOT JOY?

I HAD SOME THESE PAST COUPLE OF WEEKS!TWO OF MY BLOG READERS RECOGNIZED ME WHEN I WAS OUT AND ABOUT!WHAT FUN THAT IS FOR ME TO HEAR A WOMAN SAYING I READ YOUR BLOG AND LOVE EVERYTHING YOU DO!OR BEING TAPPED ON THE SHOULDER IN TRADER JOES AND HAVE A WOMAN BITING HER KNUCKLES SAYING “ITS YOU! IS THE PIG AND THE DOG IN THE CAR?”!!

BOY YOU LADIES KNOW HOW TO MAKE MY DAY!I SEEM TO REACH SO MANY OF YOU AND IT SEEMS SO STRANGE TO ME THAT YOU LIVE CLOSE BY!THANK YOU FOR SAYING SOMETHING!I APPRECIATE IT AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

If NO JOY GO OUT or stay home AND CREATE SOME!

WE ALL NEED JOY!

GOD KNOWS WE NEED JOY TO and FOR THE WORLD RIGHT NOW!

XXX

BE WELL BELIEVE ME………..IT’S EVERYTHING!

I SEE MY TEST RESULTS ARE IN COMING TO MY EMAIL OFF I GO………………EXPECTING NO MIRACLES NOR ANSWERS.

PS. TO COMMENT CONTINUE SCROLLING DOWNWARD.DONOT USE EMOGJI’S.THEY DONOT WORK IN THE COMMENT SECTION.NO HEARTS NO FACES BECAUSE IF YOU DO THEY WILL TURN INTO QUESTION MARKS!!!JUST USE MY FAVORITE THE EXCLAMATION MARK!!!

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING AND I WISH I COULD GIVE YOU ALL A BIG HOLIDAY HUG!

62 Comments

Leave your reply.

D. A. Squires
· Reply

December 4, 2023 at 6:36 PM

I think I could write a few chapters in replying to this post… it was down the rabbit hole and then down some more : ) In summary, here is my bouillabaisse response. It was: Serious (health issues–my husband was just wearing that monitor, has afib but had successful ablation surgery that’s now wearing off), funny (or not so, but the description of going to customer service in a medical office was both), interesting (everything), thought provoking (ditto), requires time to digest (hence the delayed reply), fascinating photos (your kitchen in general, Olaf with you in the kitchen and that GIANT grape basket and mile-long corded phone on the wall), sigh-inducing (so nostalgic to be reminded of a truly eponymous blog, Have Some Decorum, and the author-warrior Ellie…I just googled her memoir cookbooks and they can still be purchased… I never did, but will now–those PIES!!), smiles while reading (like sprinkles on a cupcake), and last but not least, one small wince (Olaf cannot get close to REAL ornaments). Your musings are so, so wonderful… please never stop writing to us. We all love you. XOXO
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  December 5, 2023 at 7:26 AM
  
  Oh My that ablation surgery was suggested to me years ago in LONDON over dinner by a BIG BLOGGER.It worked wonders for a family member.
  All this HEALTH STUFF wears one out!After my RANT I’m feeling BETTER!It’s a bloody MIRACLE!!I kid you NOT!Maybe I just need to visit THAT OFFICE MORE OFTEN!Like once a week to get the right DOSE of medication!As for ELLIE!
  Did I know you followed her?
  If I did I forgot!That must have been how you FOUND ME!?
  Contessa and Steven Andrew Jones were always adding to the comments!Gawd I loved his responses as others did too!
  It was the first BLOG I read where we were like a SALON HAVING TEA with discussion!
  We entertained her like she did us!Happy to hear one can still purchase her books!I have used them every year for the HOLIDAYS!
  Big Hug to You!
  Thank You for the wedding photos!!You look RADIANT as Mother of the Bride and NOTHING AT ALL WHAT I HAD PICTURED IN MY HEAD!!!!
  So fun to SEE YOU!
  Happy Healthy Holidays to YOU!
  Xoxo
Mel
· Reply

December 2, 2023 at 11:05 AM

Hi it’s Mel
No need to post this. I can send you Nutella the next time I go over the border to pick up things from my US Amazon account. I just need your address. It’s about a 20 min drive to Point Roberts Washington. ( check it out on your maps). As heading into Washington state with a girl friend to hit Trader Joes on Dec 13 . I can send the. You can DM your info or send it to my text. May be better. Talk to you Monday
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  December 2, 2023 at 1:56 PM
  
  Mel!
  Thank You for the offer but Nutella is available in our grocery store!No need for you to mail but THANK YOU for the offer!!!XXX
Jill James
· Reply

December 2, 2023 at 1:38 AM

Elizabeth so much to comment on in this post. I wholeheartedly agree with the comments left on IG , your natural creativity shines through in your house and garden as well as in your style.
Your pies look wonderful and no doubt were delicious.
Good on you for complaining on the other patients behalf , sometimes you just have to.
Best of luck on finding a solution for the Christmas tree conundrum.
As for your question on finding the perfect career . Not sure I ever really did , circumstances got in the way.
Thinking of you , hope the test results provide answers. I have had follow up tests since I arrived home , see the oncologist on Tuesday , fingers crossed its OK.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  December 4, 2023 at 5:38 AM
  
  My FINGERS ARE DOUBLE CROSSED!Let me know!!
  Xxx
Rosemarie
· Reply

December 1, 2023 at 4:42 PM

HI THEERE CONTESSA
WELCOME TO DECEMBER – USUALLY A MONTH OF JOY AND CREATING SPECIAL MEMORIES.
WOW YOUR KITCHEN HAS SO MUCH IN IT – I’D LIKE YOU TO TAKE US ON A TOUR RIGHT AROUND IT! THERE ARE SO MANY INTERESTING ITEMS.
DELIGHTFUL CHILDHOOD PICTURE!
NICELY MADE TABLE SETTING FOR CHARLOTTE – THIS WILL MAKE HER FEEL EXTRA SPECIAL WHEN VISITING YOU BOTH. I SAW HER LITTLE CHAIR IN ANOTHER BLOG PIC.
CUSTOMER SERVICE AT TIMES HAS GONE DOWN HILL. GOOD TO SPEAK UP. WHEN I HAVE ESPECIALLY GOOD SERVICE NOW I TELL THE PERSON “THEY ARE THE EMPLOYEE OF THE DAY IF NOT OF THE MONTH! – THIS BRINGS A BIG SMILE TO THEIR FACE. I WILL AT TIMES TOO SEEK OUT THE SUPERVISOR AND TELL THEM RE THE GOOD SERVICE.
ADDRESS BOOK – I AM NOT THAT ORGANIZED – I HAVE ADDRESSES IN JOURNALS – CARDS – CALENDARS – SO HAVE TO SEARCH WHEN I WANT TO SEND SOMETHING IN THE MAIL. PAPER – I HAVE PAPER EVERYWHERE – MY UPCOMING PROJECT IS TO CLEAR OUT WHAT I DON’T NEED. HA HA – EVERYTHING IS NEEDED! I WAS IN MY BEGINNING DAYS OF WORK A FILE CLERK – SO SHOULD BE REALLY ORGANIZED. MY SAYING IS – IN THE PROCESS OF GETTING ORGANIZED I GET COMPLETELY DISORGANIZED,
ANIMALS REALLY DO PICK UP ON OTHER ANIMALS SCENTS SO I CAN SEE YOUR’S REACTING TO THE BEDDING.
I REALLY ENJOY THE INTERACTION BETWEEN YOU AND READERS – YOU ALWAYS GET THE CONVERSATION GOING!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  December 4, 2023 at 5:44 AM
  
  Good DAY!
  It’s that paper that gets in the way!A clip here a I want to read that again,or maybe I will make that recipe!As long as we enjoy the process it’s worth it!
  Hope you are back safe and sound ready to face the HOLIDAYS!
  Xxx
Hilda Smith
· Reply

November 30, 2023 at 2:22 AM

Elizabeth I have been saving your blog to read so that I could give it my full attention. You bring so much joy to us all with your blog. I love the details, the photos, the updates, the colour, the rants!
I always wanted to teach and got great joy from it. xxx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 30, 2023 at 7:49 AM
  
  WONDERFUL………….AND IT SEEMS YOU FOUND THE RIGHT HUSBAND TOO!XXX
Dee Black
· Reply

November 29, 2023 at 9:34 PM

Olaf seems to be adjusting soo well. He will understand that tree right away. Just do not put the presents under it. LOL.
Betty is climbing that ladder searching for her new shoes mom.
In between the tests, monitors, and ‘letting it fly’ we absolutely need joy and rest. Unplugging is a good thing. Turning back to mundane chores (you are correct the search for beauty is more fun) restores order and balance. When other things have thrown us a curve. I think you are wise to take a break. A short one!
Funny to see pecan pies on your stove. I realize it’s a Thanksgiving Tradition; just enjoyed seeing a southern staple (done so well) in your California/Italian kitchen.
Love the picture of you in knee socks and velvet. Of course, you had your bunny. Some things never change.

No….I try to not look back or have regrets. I try to remember to feel blessed and full of gratitude. As they say all we have lived or loved forms us and our lives. I try to grow happiness in smaller ways now. You will see in a few more years. All falls away except what is right in front of you. Time does run out. Enjoy every minute and you do you, as the new saying goes, whatever that is!
Stay well and Thank you for all the joy and real life you share.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 30, 2023 at 8:00 AM
  
  I HAD TO READ THAT LAST PARAGRAPH A FEW TIMES!
  YES!I CAN SEE HOW THAT WILL HAPPEN……….ALREADY IS HAPPENING IN A WAY.
  YESTERDAY, I HAD MY HAIR TRIMMED!I PUT MY COAT OVER THE SMOCK AND LEFT!DIDNOT REALIZE UNTIL I GOT BACK HOME!
  BACK I GO TODAY ON MY WAY TO VESTIBULAR THERAPIST.
  I WAS TO DO MY EXERCISES THREE TIMES A DAY.I WAS ABLE TO DO ONCE A DAY IF THAT BETWEEN NOT FEELING GREAT AND PULLING MY BACK OUT ON NOV. 12 TH!
  DO I LIE AND SAY I DID GREAT?OR DO I TELL HER THE TRUTH?
  I MOST LIKELY WILL TELL HER THE TRUTH.I REALLY LIKE HER AND SHE LISTENS AND SHE TOO THINKS MY ISSUES ARE MORE HEART/LUNGS THAN INNER EAR.BUT I HAVE IMPROVED IN HER EXERCISES BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS SO THERE IS SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT THAT!ANYTHING THAT WILL HELP………
  I SHALL REPORT INTO YOU SOON.
  LIFE KEEPS TOSSING ME CURVE BALLS AND I WAS FANTASTIC AT DODGE BALL AS A CHILD!
  I CAN PLAY THIS GAME TOO!
  NO GIFTS UNDER THE TREE!THANK GOD I HAVE AN OLD CARRIAGE FROM A MERRY-GO-ROUND THAT THEY SIT IN!AND LOOK PRETTY!
  BIG HOLIDAY HIGS TO YOU!
  XOXO
Fran
· Reply

November 29, 2023 at 1:27 PM

CIAO CONTESSA! It’s ALWAYS a TREAT to read your blog entries!
Even though you are not posting on IG, it sounds like you are STILL quite BUSY! I really hope you got good results from wearing the Holter Monitor! AND, I am hoping you are feeling LOADS BETTER, TOO!
I JUST LOVE YOUR PHOTOS OF YOUR YOUNGER YEARS! YOU WERE BEAUTIFUL THEN AND CONTINUE TO BE SO BEAUTIFUL !!
As for Olaf…does OLAF like his new name? I think it will be such a FUN Christmas with him in the house! His very FIRST Christmas Chez Contessa! HOW EXCITING! NERVE-WRACKING, TOO, WITH ALL THOSE GLASS ORNAMENTS YOU SPEAK OF! I AM SURE YOUR SWEET ITALIAN WILL COME UP WTH A BRILLIANT IDEA!
Your PIES must have been SCRUMPTIOUS BECAUSE THEY SURE LOOKED ABSOLUTELY DIVINE! I did not know that you wrote a cookbook?!…or did I read that incorrectly? Where can I buy one, already?!?!
KEEP US POSTED AND KEEP FEELING BETTER EVERY DAY!!
BIG HUG TO YOU BELLISSIMA CONTESSA!!
XXOO Fran
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 30, 2023 at 8:09 AM
  
  NO COOKBOOK FROM ME EVER!
  ONLY MY SONS GET THAT TO SURVIVE BACK IN THE DAY………..
  RECENTLY THE LONG HAIRED SON SAID, “ITS TIME FOR ANOTHER COOKBOOK MOTHER VOLUME TWO!”YOU CAN IMAGINE HOW MUCH I LOVED THAT!FUNNY THING YEARS AGO I PURCHASED BIG AND I MEAN BIG BOUND LEATHER BOOKS WITH PLAIN PAPER INSIDE TO MAKE THE BOYS COOKBOOKS FROM FAMILY RECIPES…….I COULD NEVER DECIDE HOW TO DIVIDE THE PAGES UP.MAYBE YOU CAN HELP ME.DO I WRITE A RECIPE THAT APPEALS TO ME OR DO I SOMEHOW DIVIDE THE BOOK INTO PASTA, MAIN COUSRE, VEGETABLES AND SWEETS?
  IT’S A DIFFICULT DECISION FOR ME WHICH IS STRANGE AS I HAVE NO TROUBLE DECIDING WHAT I LIKE AND DONOT LIKE EVER!
  THINKING OF YOU TODAY WITH ALL THATS GOING ON………
  GIVE ME A SIGN OF LIFE AS SOON AS YOU CAN!
  LOVE, ME!
Janey
· Reply

November 29, 2023 at 4:16 AM

Elizabeth,

Your blog brings me such joy. I never joined IG. I did blog for 12 years. I didn’t attract near the followers you have but I continued because it gave me joy. When it got to be a chore, I stopped..

You ask if our lives turned out like we planned. I have to say yes. I dreamt of becoming a stewardess (yes we were called that) and I accomplished that. I have had many material joys. A beach house, a
custom log home in the mountains and a house I designed here in Texas. I have also lived in Europe, traveled extensively and just completed the last 75 miles of the Camino De Santiago. Guess you can hear the but coming. Even after all that and much more, I struggle with occasional depression and I never seem to quit having
expectations of how others will make me feel. So I am still working on my self esteem.
By the wayI hope your medical report was great news.
Yes, I remember and miss Ellie. I also hated to see Heather’s marriage end. The things you did for her warmed my heart.
Please continue to be you…..Merry Christmas…Janey
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  November 29, 2023 at 8:29 AM
  
  Janey!
  I have wanted to do that hike in SPAIN for years!!!How many blisters appeared?I want to hear MORE!Email me!
  I remember those days of the REAL FLIGHT ATTENDANTS!My step mom worked for Pan Am!
  Sounds like you have had a good LIFE and fun while marching through it!
  Good for YOU!
  As some said here I really have touched on ALL THOSE THINGS ON MY LIST!I have good memories and a few sad memories too but that’s LIFE!
  I learned at a young age WOMEN CAN BE VERY MEAN!
  As devastating as that can be we do learn from OTHERS!
  I Adore your comment!
  Thank You for sharing!
  Xxx
Karen
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 9:20 PM

Dear Contessa,
You are so wise. I found you on IG through Debra Phillips. I saw her comment on one of your posts and I was intrigued. Who is this? She has a pig? She dresses so avant garde! I was hooked.
I was sure I’d be a great actress or singer or writer or spy. I’ve had the opportunity to do 3 of those, but not full time. Sigh
The gram can make one feel terribly inadequate. So many beautiful homes, fashionable and beautiful and seemingly accomplished women that it can be overwhelming. Then there are the days where a simple hack is given and I briefly feel accomplished.
Thank you for sharing your hospital tirade. I like to think of myself as a champion ..
but lately having the name Karen gives me pause as it can get ugly quickly on social media. Please continue to share your spirit with us. It’s welcomed, needed and appreciated.
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  November 29, 2023 at 8:35 AM
  
  Dear Karen
  , I spoke with Debra two days ago how funny you should mention her she is a wonderful lady. I went on one of her tours to England five years ago which I highly recommend if you need an escape. Yes I have a pig. I’m on my second one I’d have a cow, a donkey, and a few sheep too, but we have restrictions !!
  I keep looking at my husband saying is it too late for a farm of course would need farm hands, but can we still do it? I don’t have the energy or what it takes to take care of all the beasties in the barn. I regret that big time both my sons have Barns so maybe I have rubbed off on them! just a little bit!!
  Xxx
Maggie
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 4:26 PM

Elizabeth,
I love the kimono, it looks so soft. Your four legged family keep you on your toes. What joy they bring. I have 3 pairs of Birdies, they are so comfortable and always make a statement. Your kitchen fascinates me, I always zoom in to see what you have going on, the layers are so interesting. Those pies look delicious, the chocolate pecan pie is right up my alley.
Finally, good for you to report the poor patient care to customer service. I can just picture the whole thing. People need to be called out.
Have a magical Christmas and best wishes for good health in 2024.
Maggie
- La Contessa
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  Author
  
  November 29, 2023 at 8:40 AM
  
  Dear Maggie, thank you for your beautiful compliment don’t zoom in too close you might see some dust bunnies hanging out and spiders. God the spiders love my house I try to capture them without hurting their legs and put them outside in the garden but not always so easy the Birdies shoes I agree I’ve never had a more comfortable shoe and this pair I shared with you on the blog this week is even more comfortable than the past shoes so they’ve come up with something new in the souls!
  Thank you for commenting. It always makes me smile and I just don’t smile enough these days I need to smile more more more and laugh laugh laugh!!
  Happy holidays. Enjoy the season.
  Xxx
Kim Bifulco
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 3:36 PM

In regards to the pies , could the recipes have been from the incredible Ellie O’Connell?
Please do EXPECT answers AND MIRACLES!!! Your neighbor in a next door town.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 5:24 PM
  
  BRAVA!
  YES YES YES!!!!
  Miracles DO HAPPEN!!!
  Love her Thanks Giving cookbook and CHRISTMAS AS WELL!
  XXX
Judith
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 1:30 PM

So much to look at today! The garden colors! The new shoes on the lovely little step stool! The kimono! The pets!

I’m not sure which I liked better, the early portrait or the little place setting. Both are adorable. Like another commenter said, I thought that picture was of another little person.

Thank you for caring about other people and trying to let the elderly be served before yourself. Respect is so important. And please keep up the comments to customer service people – sometimes that makes a difference.

I wish I had not seen those pies; now I want a piece.

Be well, Contessa!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 7:31 PM
  
  I just made ANOTHER PIE for The Italian!As I still had some ingredients.
  Maybe wait for the KITCHEN to be sorted?They are very easy and just a few items to be stirred with a wooden spoon so perhaps don’t wait MAKE ONE NOW!
  Xxx
lisa thomson-author
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 12:08 PM

I love that kimono from South Africa! That is beautiful. I’d say your Casa looks ‘golden rod’ but colors appear differently in photos vs. in person. Hope your results are all good, LA CONTESSA! I can’t believe it’s almost December. The season will be upon us!
Such nice comments you have received on your instagram and nice that you share them here. You certainly do bring joy and a bit of sunshine to the world with your beauty.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 7:37 PM
  
  You are VERY KIND!
  The wall color in the kitchen looks different through out the day.It is a Mustard Yellow in person.I was going for an Ocher but got this instead!My painter doesNot do do-overs!
  Cheap Labor what could I do?
  I LOVE IT!
  XXX
  - lisa thomson-author
    · Reply
    
    November 29, 2023 at 6:10 PM
    
    I love the color! I was going to say mustard. LOVE it.
Amanda
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 11:15 AM

Love this post!
Milly my dog goes crazy for smells, but then we believe, she’s a beagle/ terrier cross, so a scenthound. Good point about buying from warehouse rather than shop.
Definitely team Nutella here, we used to have it more when we lived in Brussels.
Re the holter monitoring, it’s more a thing in UK, to wear for 3_5 days,as if just for 24 hours ,you often don’t get a true/ accurate idea of regularity etc.
I didn’t realise that you had been on Instagram so long. I only really started in lockdown, but this past year ,due to busy family situations, I’ve not really posted, and am more relaxed.
I’m reading a great book…. Dopamine nation, by Dr Anna Lemke.
It’s really worth a read, and might explain why you’re more relaxed off Instagram.
Lovely pictures and fantastic to hear from you.x
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 7:43 PM
  
  Yes many many years and many followers from the first Instagram account!They never found me or came back!A lot were the Bots which I have learned to BLOCK!I had a different name as well.Couldnot get any of that back.
  Belgium!
  Where did you live there?I loved Antwerp have a friend still there!Met a REAL COUNT AT HIS ESTATE AND GARDEN SHOW!!!I bet you went to that!It happens once a year!I need to look for his Instagram and send to you!
  Yes love our emails!
  Xxx
- Mel Clancey-Dubienski
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  November 30, 2023 at 12:29 AM
  
  Elizabeth, As always I just love your free style flair! Love the name Olaf for your piggy, so close to my golden doodle Olah’s name. Does Olaf come when called? Olah does not? Well sometimes. When she acts that way,I say she takes after my husbands side of the family!
  My life: I am from Vancouver Canada. I wanted to be a fashion designer so I went to FIDM in LA in 1979 for 2 years. Hard thing back in Vancouver there was not a lot of companies designing and manufacturing. Now Vancouver is a Mecca for that with Lululemon and Artiza just to name a few! I ended up managing and selling in high end stores until 1985 until I could not work anymore,(ok I am very open) as I was a practicing alcoholic. I even went to Betty Ford in Palm Desert. Got sober in 1987. I was 27 years old when I quit drinking and I have now been sober for 36 years. It is like I have lived two separate lives. Then went back to university for a 4 year marketing program, doing it in 2 years! I then worked in the interior design field, working for such companies as Herman Miller selling multi- million dollar office projects, then worked for my husband Interior Design Company and finished my career off as a fabric rep for a company out of NY, travelling across Western Canada visiting Architects and Interior Design firms. I have lots of hobbies, silver smithing,sewing, knitting cooking….. Starting back at the Studio out west this January and when we are at our summer cottage on Lake of the Woods, Ontario,I have a studio there. We drive half way across Canada every year for a three and a half month stay. Life is busy. Grand kids live on Vancouver Island so we are heading over next week for a few days. Gingerbread decorating and cookie making. I remember when the kids were little 7 & 11, I think I bought an extra $40 of candies for decorating the gingerbread house. Ian my husband the Interior Designer was trying to tell the kids that their design was not symmetrical??? Ian, there kids!!
  Anyway life is good! I use to have a real shopping problem expensive clothing, shoes and Max Mara Coats!! Now I love a great pair of cashmere sweatpants and a cozy cashmere sweater. Actually I love anything cashmere still!!
  Wishing everyone a peaceful holiday, and WORLD PEACE.
  Mel
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 10:40 AM

More medical tests… I hate to hear this, Elizabeth, but understand. I was diagnosed with Covid for the first time last week. A souvenir of my trip to NYC. Love your determination. Like me, we’re tough women. Sending you love and healing. xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 7:45 PM
  
  I’m so happy it was just COVID and NOT PNEUMONIA AND COVID!
  Hope you are feeling BETTER!
  Xxx
Brenda N
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November 28, 2023 at 9:35 AM

Hi Elizabeth! Thanks for bringing the joy! So much to talk about! I love your chartreuse drapes, draped right over your chair- matching your outdoor foliage and your shoes. l also love green and purple together. I had a favorite orchid purple silk sweater I paired with teal pants shortly before I met my husband, circa 1980.
Olaf is communicating very well, tearing up his smelly new beige bed!
I saw that old photo of you and thought it was your little granddaughter at first glance! I still hate knee socks that fall down, I toss them right in the trash. You took me right back to my mom brushing my hair too.
I’ve never joined instagram (or facebook), but very much enjoyed looking at your photos on there. It seems it will be more peaceful to stop.
I made a 3 ingredient Nutella brownie recipe once that was so addictive I haven’t made it again!
My complaint valve has been going off lately due to a ridiculous proposal for multiple and huge electronic billboards in our charming little city. I’ve been firing off letters and phone calls for a few weeks now. It is good to blow off steam, but sometimes we feel like we’re talking to a wall!
As for contentment in life, I was invited to a “vision board” party over the weekend and I really couldn’t think of things I want that I don’t have, other than some travel, but that’s problematic with certain health issues. I ended up not being able to go to the party, but wondered what the other ladies came up with. In the last 24 months I’ve been through a stress heart attack, the loss of my big brother (age 72) and cancer. I’m happy just to be here! I do love the holidays.
Take care!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 10:03 AM
  
  BRENDA………….what is a stress heart attack?Due to stress I assume!If I recall correctly you are in Southern California?My goodness I am so sorry about your BIG BROTHER and Cancer.
  YOUR complaint valve I LOVE THAT!What city if indeed you are in MY STATE?People have no expression I have found of late.They just take it in not really listening to the needs of the customer I have witnessed this time and again especially in pharmacies!
  I NEED THAT NUTELLA RECIPE when you can find it!
  Love that you spotted they were drapes…………I only have one but I LOVE THE COLOR SO MUCH I DECIDED TO LET IT SHINE!
  XXX
  - Brenda N
    · Reply
    
    November 28, 2023 at 10:46 AM
    
    Hi again Elizabeth, Yes, I’m down here in La Mesa (San Diego county).
    The stress heart attack is a relatively new classification, it’s mostly women who have this- called a MINOCA (Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries), mine was followed by years of chronic heavy duty stress. So far the cancer seems to be behind me (uterine sarcoma, I call it a fibroid gone rogue).
    Yes, it often feels like talking to a zombie and they make us feel like we’re the crazy ones, ha. Now I am always thrilled to find kind friendly people who listen and understand, they are out there!
    Oh ha, just remembered- when my heart attack happened, I was on a stressful call with the pharmacy!
    I’ll find that nutella brownie recipe and email it to you!
    Brenda
    - LA CONTESSA
      · Reply
      
      Author
      
      November 28, 2023 at 7:47 PM
      
      Got it!
      Thank You!
      I will try and let you know what the verdict is up North!
Jhwri
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 9:26 AM

I have no idea about my URL hahaha
Hoping good reports for all and both of us it’s so exhausting trying to find answers to things physical! Hug all and stay safe and well hearts and love J
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 10:05 AM
  
  THANKS JAMIE………….
  I hope you have found all your doctors now too.
  Lets make 2024 a GREAT YEAR!
  XXX
margaret
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November 28, 2023 at 8:59 AM

Socrates famously said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Reading some of the other comments, I see that reflected. With all the business of the season, me thinks intention and meaning need to be our guiding stars. L’Chaim, To Life!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 10:12 AM
  
  WELL THEN MY LIFE IS WORTH A LIVING GIRLFRIEND!
  I have examined EVERYTHING to the point of EXHAUSTION.
  Let’s just go with the FLOW and LIVE LIFE AS LONG AS WE HAVE IT!
  OFF TOPIC…………….I am searching for NUTCRACKER tickets can you believe over $700.00 a seat in Orchestra?I can recite the whole ballet for dinner!
  I have been a solider, KING MOUSE, a snowflake and a FLOWER!
  I SO WANT TO SEE THAT CHRISTMAS TREE GROW AGAIN ONE MORE TIME BUT NOT AT THAT PRICE!
  I’m rattling on……………..XXX
Linda Clark
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November 28, 2023 at 8:20 AM

Enjoy reading your blog , and very happy you will continue !!!
I am trying to back away from having my phone in my hand.
It has become a bore and stressful !!!

You are so positive and praying for you during your health journey .

Thank you for sharing your beautiful home , darling pets and love your colors!! Brightens all of our days .
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:43 AM
  
  YES!
  THE STRESS LEVEL OF NOT HAVING THE PHONE IN MY HAND HAS GONE DOWN A LOT!WHO KNEW IT CAUSED STRESS!HERE WE THOUGHT WE DID IT FOR ENJOYMENT……….SOMONE NEEDS TO DIVE INTO THAT TOPIC AND GET SOME FACTS!
  I THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMPLIMENT AS I LIVE WITH IT AND DON’T SEE IT THAT WAY SO ITS GOOD TO HEAR YOU ENJOY MY LIFE AND SURROUNDINGS!
  I JUST LOVE YOUR NEW PHOTO ON INSTAGRAM!THOSE GLASSES!!!
  XXX
Michele
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November 28, 2023 at 8:09 AM

Dearest E
What a treat to wake up to your musings today! We have been missing your daily posts and photos but having your blog is such a lovely way to keep up with you.
Those light green velvet birdies are fabulous – and yet another thing we have in common – two of my fave colors green and purple. The pies looked amazing. Was the cookbook from Martha? I never missed her show when it was on – she was a little scary but oh how I loved her talents. I actually had some of her furniture pieces made by Bernhardt. Wow that place setting for Miss Charlotte was fit for a princess and of course how appropriate! The picture of you as a little girl is so adorable. Your hair looked kind of blondish! Another coincidence – our little rabbits! Mine was called “Rabbi” and after an unfortunate drop into a paint bucket he lost all his fur so my Noni would hand sew little fabric patches on him and I was never without him until I started school. I still have him!!
I have several address books -my go to is my little purse size one from Mary Engelbreit – In it I also keep all the funeral prayer cards from my family and friends that have passed away. I carry it in my purse and find It comforting to have them with me.
I always wanted to be an artist or photographer from when I was little. I fancied that I could have been a photographer since my painting skills were not that keen – but my main love became interior and home design. My Mom said I should have been a lawyer or counselor because I was always negotiating! – but I ended up in a career in Human Resources where I actually got to use those skills and decorated as my side hobby!
The comments from your blog followers are always a treat to read. I had to giggle at Tea’s “fiddle dee dee” Scarlett comment as I love that.
Thank you for being our favorite Contessa !
Love
M
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:54 AM
  
  THOSE SHOES ARE 30% OFF WHAT I PAID RIGHT NOW!
  NO NOT MARTHA……..A GAL FROM CALIFORNIA NAMED ELLIE.
  SHE LIVED IN PARIS IN A WHEELCHAIR.
  I CAN’T EVEN RECALL HOW MANY YEARS ITS BEEN BUT A FEW.
  SHE WOULD HOST A BIG TIME BLOGGER AND THEN TOLD ME HOW RUDE SHE WAS.THEN I ARRIVE WITH A BIG BOX OF MACARONS AND SHE TELLS ME SHE HATES THEM!
  SHE WAS HONEST AND MORE TO THE POINT THEN MYSELF!
  WE ALL ADORED HER…………..XOXO
Gray
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November 28, 2023 at 7:27 AM

I am not able to blog, right now, but am sure able to read and comment on those from my buddies!! I will miss you on the IG, but I will text you if needed… 🙂
Yes we do need some joy! I would love to be surrounded by lots of children and grandchildren, but that was not to be for me. I will enjoy those of my friends!
I also will start up my blog again, and meet new people that way and enjoy the lovely readers that I have! And they ARE lovely. LIke YOU!!! <3 CIAO!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:37 AM
  
  CIAO BELLA GRAY!
  I HAVE ASSUMED THE CARRYING OF YOUR PARENTS IS TOO MUCH TO CARRY ON THE BLOG AS WELL.I CERTAINLY UNDERSTAND IT.BEEN THERE AND DONE THAT BUT ONLY ONE PARENT NOT TWO!
  MY STEP MOTHERS CAREGIVER ALMOST BURNED THE HOUSE DOWN THIS MONTH!THE KITCHEN IS A GONER AND THE UPSTAIRS THE BIG GORGEOUS FIREMEN BROKE THROUGH THE SHEET ROCK IN THE CLOSET TO MAKE SURE NO FIRE INSIDE THE WALLS………..THE KITCHEN IS A GONER.GUESS HOW MUCH THE HOME INSURANCE WROTE THE CHECK FOR?
  PREPARE FOR BATTLE WOMAN IF ANYTHING I WILL HAVE ANOTHER STORY TO SHARE!
  HA!JUST WHAT I NEED IN MY LIFE NOW……………XXX
Pat
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November 28, 2023 at 7:19 AM

I laughed and cringed a bit when I read about the various careers you dreamt about. I laughed because I can see you doing any of them. Well, maybe not vet…not because of the chemistry, but because you’d want to save every last one of your patients. The heartbreak of not being able to save one would be too much for your sensitive soul. I cringed at the reasons why you didn’t pursue those early dreams…math, chemistry…because we’re part of the generation that was still told that girls weren’t good at math. Maybe not in so many words, but that was the overriding sentiment in our school-aged days. But, you know, in many ways, you’ve gone on to accomplish elements of all those youthful dreams.
(I, too, love the combo of green and purple!)
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:32 AM
  
  YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY CORRECT!
  ON ALL POINTS!
  MY HOME WOULD HAVE BEEN FULL OF FOUR LEGGED BEAUTIES!
  I WOULD HAVE BEEN KNOWN AS THE CRAZY LADY WITH ALL THE ANIMALS!
  HA!
  NOT A BAD WAY TO BE REMEMBERED.
  XXX
Christine G
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November 28, 2023 at 7:12 AM

Time sure marches on! And I sure miss the days of the original Instagram that was just about images. The FB merger was a real bummer, though your posts were always a delight. I miss them already.

I recently pulled out Ellie’s cookbook when wondering what to make for Thanksgiving. The cranberry dish still intrigues me. I wonder what happened to her daughter, whose book I also read.

Thank you for sharing your life with us. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season with all your loved ones.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:29 AM
  
  I HAVE MADE THE CRANBERRY DISH!LET ME GO TO MY NOTES AND THE YEARS I MADE IT HOLD ON!
  MY NOTES:MY BOYS THOUGHT IT WAS RAW MEAT!
  EVERYONE ENJOYED IT!
  DEFINITELY MAKE IT AGAIN.
  MADE AGAIN A FEW TIMES!
  11/25/15 = DELICIOUS.
  NOV. 2016 = TOOK OUT OF MOLD TOO SOON.A BIT OF LIQUID.LEAVE TILL LAST MOMENT.
  11/17/? = USED A ROSE MOLD!PERFECT!
  THIS BEING THE YOLANDA FAVORITE DISH………………
  XXX
Tara Dillard
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November 28, 2023 at 7:03 AM

Many moons ago, read in the NYT, The More We Go Inward, The More We Outwardly Connect.

Looking forward to you going more INWARD.

So much for original childhood. We’re about same age. Still have my Black Wool dress. Looks just like yours. A bit moth eaten, GRANDMA made it. She gave me Pink Lamb-y, about size of your Peter Rabbit. Raggedy Ann, dad gave during that era Christmas, in same drawer as Lamb-y.

Off topic, but the grandparent gift & snippy young ‘nurses’ (may have been staff?), reminding me of Cracker Barrel.

Fascinating to watch phone use with kids in AWANA, and grandkids of friends. Not good. Train wreck.

Watched at Cracker Barrel a couple of years ago, a mom, her daughter, and grandma. Daughter no phone, about 10yo. Grandma, and mom, both on their phones. Daughter just sitting there, ignored, entire meal.

Another time, CB again, multi generation family, grandparents, parents, grandchildren. Had mental bet about who would pay for all. Yep, grandad paid entire bill. Alas, he was the one ‘alone’, everyone else on phones. Grandma did try for a couple minutes, max, to involve young granddaughter in conversation/crayons/drawing. No go, young granddaughter back on phone to play a game. Parents were oblivious. Grandparents were aware and stressed.

I was merely watching and found it stressful.

Off topic central…………………anyway.

On topic…………..YOUR CLOTHES…………………SHOES……………….HOME………………..!!

xot
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:22 AM
  
  YES…….I HAVE SEEN “OFF TOPIC ” SCENES TOO.
  I JUST HAD A CALL FROM A SON YESTERDAY!HE WANTS TO SEE THE NUTCRACKER BALLET!
  HOW ABOUT THAT FOR A SURPRISE REQUEST!
  MADE ME SO HAPPY!
  REGARDING “ON TOPIC” IT ALL COMES NATURALLY TO ME.NO THOUGHT GOES INTO GETTING DRESSED EXCEPT DO I NEED TO BE WARM.
  I LOVE MY CLOTHES AND WHO I SHOP FROM AND I LOVE FLAT SHOES WITH A STYLE.MY HOME WASNOT WHAT I HAD ORIGINALLY ENVISIONED BUT I MADE IT WORK FOR ME AND NOW I WOULD NOT CHANGE A THING EXCEPT MAYBE ADD ONE MORE ANIMAL!!!
  THANK YOU FOR COMMENTING!ALWAYS SO GOOD TO HEAR FROM YOU!XOXO
cindy
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November 28, 2023 at 6:40 AM

I can’t wait to hear how the tree fares with the Piggy! I was just thinking how lucky we are that Summer is long past that stage! Good Luck!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:15 AM
  
  I BOUGHT PLASTIC GLITTERED BIG PINE CONES ONE YEAR TO HANG LOW SO BANKSY WOULD HIT THOSE…………HE GOT IT.
  WE HAD NO FATALTIES ON HIS ROAMING!
  THIS GUY IS MUCH LONGER!!
  I NEED THE LUCK!
  XXX
Kym
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November 28, 2023 at 6:34 AM

Absolutely adore the china plate! You are always surrounded by elegance. Do you know who made the pattern? I tried to find it on Replacements with no luck. Happy Holidays to you and yours!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 7:50 AM
  
  HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES!
  MADE IN ENGLAND BRAND NEW!
  HEAD OVER TO HIGHGROVE GIFT SHOP MAYBE YOU CAN FIND IT THERE!I THINK THATS WHERE I BOUGHT IT BUT A FEW YEARS AGO…….
  OR GOOGLE HISTORIC ROYAL PALACE PLATES!
  THANK YOU FOR READING!
  XXX
Deb Milne
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 6:31 AM

I hope your test results turned out well, Elizabeth? I am the gal who organized my address book by last names. Such a wonderful pic of you at two. I’m so impressed you remember that day. My mother could remember far back as two, I cannot. Your pies turned out beautifully & I hope your Thanksgiving was a happy one!! We were dining at a lovely restaurant on Thanksgiving Day; we all look over to the table next to us, which was a large group, & every single member of that family, young & old, were scrolling on their phones. Older kids in sweat pants, sportswear, it all made my heart sink. You will find you have so much more time while you take a break from IG. Thinking of you & sending lots of holiday cheer! xox
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:12 AM
  
  STILL WAITING FOR THE CALL FROM THAT HEART DOCTOR…………LOTS OF LITTLE FINDINGS BUT NOTHING THAT MAKES SENSE TO ME!
  
  MY HEART SURE HAS A LOT OF ACCESSORIES TO IT!
  
  LEFT BUNDLE BRANCH BLOCK.
  PVC’S
  ARRHYTHMIA……MAKES SENSE I BEAT TO AN ABNORMAL RHYTHM!
  PLASTIC RING AROUND MITRAL VALVE
  PACS
  AFIB
  VENTRICULAR COUPLETS
  AND MORE.
  YES I DID THAT TOO BY LAST NAMES BUT WHEN WE MOVED TO ITALY I DID BY FIRST AS I WOULD NOT REMEMBER LAST NAMES!!
  SO FAR ITS BEEN VERY GOOD THE BREAK………..WE SHALL SEE.
  XXX
Téa
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 5:28 AM

Dear Contessa –

I chuckled when I read your musings about ‘paper’…My thought…it’s generational and something creatives do…We are the generation (I just turned 60) that grew up on paper, and we were taught not to waste it by our depression era parents. And then, behold…digital…everything! But what to do with all the paper? That’s what file cabinets are for. Fiddle dee dee, think about it another day, Scarlett! That’s what I tell myself!

Yes, I have more than one paper address book – they represent different parts of my life…the business one, the Christmas card one, and, yes – I have my mother’s somewhere…I love to look at her handwriting and reminisce with her in my mind.

YES! YAY, YOU for marching to lodge a complaint! Follow up with a well thought out letter – get that point across! It DOES make a difference. There is no reason we should allow mediocrity to rule the day. Not on MY watch. HAHA!!!

Have the most lovely day. Your writings brighten mine!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 8:03 AM
  
  TEA………
  FORGIVE ME I HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO ADD THE ACCENT DASH ON YOUR LETTER E.I NEVER LEARNED TO TYPE WHICH MY MOTHER HARPED ON ABOUT FOR YEARS THAT I NEEDED TO DO THAT!I WISH I HAD LISTENED BUT NO I KNEW BETTER………..HA!
  YOU ARE SPOT ON CORRECT ABOUT THE PAPER AND OUR GENERATION!FILE CABINETS ARE UGLY AND I HAVE DECLARED NO SPACE FOR SUCH AN ITEM!AMAZING ENOUGH I JUST CLEANED OUT MY MOTHERS FILING CABINET THIS SUMMER WHICH SAT IN OUR GARAGE FOR THE LAST SIX YEARS!
  IN OUR MINDS WE WILL ALWAYS HAVE A USE FOR PAPER OR A NEED!
  THANK YOU LOVELY LADY……….I HAVE JOY WRITING THEM!
  XXX
Rita in Chicago
· Reply

November 28, 2023 at 5:21 AM

What a lovely post. Remember pouring coffee and sitting down to quietly look at pretty photos of home and gardens on Instagram in the morning before we went on with our day? No noise no ads! And it’s a miracle how we all found each other and became friends. I’m with you – let’s be in the moment enjoying our season at home because it goes by so quickly. ADORE the purple and green combo. I also put bourbon in sweet potatoes and pecan pie cookie bars. If you are talking about Martha she had a lifestyle show in the 80s and 90s that I taped on VHS. Everything was too perfect but fascinating. I hope Olaf does not destroy any ornaments. Just got two dog beds from Chewy and the cats immediately claimed them. All my addresses are now in my Apple Contacts and I can search first names or last names. After the name there is an option of a company name and I use that to say Christmas or Gardening. Most of the Christmas cards I get now are generated from some photo co. So no personal notes anymore . I cannot believe your positivity throughout the medical journey you have been on. You give us all strength with your humor. God bless you and the Italian and your two legged and four legged family. Xoxo Rita
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 28, 2023 at 7:55 AM
  
  HELLO RITA……..WITH THE RED LIPS!WHICH COLOR BECAME YOUR FAVORITE OVER THE MONTHS?
  NO NOT MARTHA!
  SOMEONE HAS MENTION WHO I WAS SPEAKING OF……..HER NAME WAS ELLIE!AN AMERICAN FROM Santa Barbara WHO ENDED UP IN PARIS AND SHE HAD A DEADLY DISEASE THAT TOOK HER FROM HER FAMILY AND US!SHE HAD A BLOG CALLED HAVE SOME DECORUM.
  I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO MEET HER IN HER PARISIAN APARTMENT CLOSE TO THE LOUVRE!IT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF MY TRIP THAT YEAR.
  XXX