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The Vintage Contessa

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FLOWERS in the GARDEN.

May 8, 2017 141 Comments

WELCOME!

You must remember I know NOTHING, ZERO about PHOTOGRAPHY!

I just like clicking THAT BUTTON!

Off YOU GO through MY GARDEN.

SPRING has SPRUNG.

 

A BENCH I SAVED from the LANDFILL years ago!

Covered in BANKSIA rose.

MOCK ORANGE

The View from my Chaise Lounge in the Garden looking UP!

SNOWBALLS as I call them.

MOCK ORANGE and a rose I cannot recall the name of at this moment!

FRAGRANT little pink rose that likes SHADE!

A white BIG CLEMATIS….HENRYI.

The GIRLS……….however, I do think there is ONE BOY!

We have 14 CHICKENS.

BOLERO ROSE

ABUTILON, a wonderful plant to attract HUMMINGBIRDS TOO!

Bolero, before she becomes ALL WHITE!

CLEMATIS………this one has DUCHESS in the NAME!

These IRON poles have been there for YEARS………..why is the JASMINE NOT GROWING UP UP AND AROUND?

By now they should be covered!

ANY SUGGESTIONS?

 

A Type of MOCK ORANGE that I LOVE…………..very short bloom but worth the wait!

 

 

A SAND BATH……….

This happens to be the PARSLEY from last years Vegetable bins.

Italian Jasmine over a French Day Bed…………

Golden Celebration

Purchased 17 years ago for my BIRTHDAY!

 

ONE of TWO PEONY I had bloom this year!

My Garden has been HIT from the drought of the last FIVE years but last year all the water was turned OFF as it was SERIOUS.

I lost some roses and or Big branches and one PEONY PLANT.

The VIEW from my living room.

JUNKSTYLEDESIGN from instagram SOLD me this old water fountain!!

I still need the hardware for it if you are in the know let me know!

As I would LOVE to have THE ITALIAN install it in the GARDEN!

That is the pizza oven on the LEFT.

SLOWLY being covered by CREEPING FIG.

No, that is NOT a REAL BIRD!Had the SON cart home from WELLFLEET!

They were on the side of the road in CAPE COD with the floating TOYS and I had to HAVE ONE!

We have a BLUE HERON who likes to STOP by and FISH for the GOLDEN FISHES in THE GREEN POND!

His PURPOSE is TO BE SCARY!

A DAYS WORK …………..DONE.

This could possibly BE my BEST FRIEND EVER!

All I have to do is call him and he comes RUNNING!

Loves a GOOD PET or SCRATCH.

Belly Rub’s are his ABSOLUTE FAVORITE.

Will eat out of my HAND.

Smacks his lips telling me, “THAT WAS GOOD NONNA!”

MY GIFT TO YOU…………

A BOUNTIFUL BUSH of BLOOMING YELLOW JASMINE

AND

A KAFTAN by YUME WORLD.

YUMEKAFTANS on instagram.

OR can be found on ETSY TOO.

You can THANK me LATER!!!!

If you are TALL like me and like THE CAFTAN/KAFTAN LOOK this is it!

My Mother who will turn 92 on JULY 31,2017.

In her MONET blouse I purchased a few years ago from GUMPS, San Francisco.I think the SOMBRERO matches nicely!

This was the 5th of MAY.

Basket bought back East on CAPE COD last summer while visiting youngest SON.

Made in Africa.

It makes the PERFECT handbag for her Walker.

There are a HANDFUL of YOU out there who know my MOTHER.

I thought YOU would ENJOY this photo.

NEXT STOP ENGLAND!

AS you can IMAGINE I am very EXCITED about my up coming TRIP!

This was my CHRISTMAS GIFT from THE ITALIAN!

I promise to REPORT in once I am back and have checked my GARDEN!

Chances are I will want to RIP it ALL out and start ALL OVER!!!

WHY?

Because I am on a GARDEN TOUR of some of the BEST and OLDEST GARDENS in the WORLD.

Let’s just call that a SLICE of HEAVEN for this CONTESSA.

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141 Comments

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  • Diana Amato
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 1:55 PM

    I love to find new inspirations while traveling. It recharges Everything! And while you are anticipating and preparing for your incredible trip, I am creating a Renaissance outfit this week for my son. Hopefully he will let me take a few pictures for my Blog. If not, you’ll see it on me!! Love you in your 500! We really should have a photo side by side in our FIATs! Baci Contessa!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 10, 2017 at 8:16 AM

      I would LOVE A PHOTO TOGETHER!
      I wouldNOT love driving to you in THAT CAR however!!!!!!!
      I MUST SEE THE OUTFIT!!!!!!!!
      NO BLOG POSTS RIGHT?I have not received any notifications……………
      MY BATTERY is almost DEAD so RE~CHARGE it I will DO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Karen Persson
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 1:53 PM

    All the gorgeous flowers! Amazing that they’re all blooming now. Here in the Netherlands that won’t happen for some months still. You’re very talented with the camera even though you say you don’t know much about taking photos. And the photo of your mother! So fun! She’s also a real character!

    If you have a chance of popping over to the Netherlands while you’re in the UK…. let me know!

    The kaftans, jewellery and hats always look so magnificent on you!

    Love,

    Karenxoxoox

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 10, 2017 at 8:13 AM

      KAREN,
      I would LOVE to jump to the NETHERLANDS but NO TIME for THAT!
      Must return Home for THE ITALIAN and the ANIMALS………….any chance you are COMING HOME this YEAR?XX

    • Karen Persson
      · Reply

      May 10, 2017 at 1:24 PM

      I understand that you don’t have the time to jump to the Netherlands this time….! I’m planning on coming to California this year, probably in September! I’ll warn you ahead of time as we HAVE to meet!

      xoxox

  • Leslie Haws
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 1:42 PM

    Your garden is spectacular! Your flowers are gorgeous! I want to wish you a Bon Voyage and can’t wait to hear of your escapades!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 10, 2017 at 8:11 AM

      WE shall have a PHONE CONFERENCE then!
      XX

  • Anita Rivera
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 12:44 PM

    YOU are a wonder. Look at your mum….she is splendid in her sombrero!!! And your roses dearest Contessa, they are sublime. Enjoy it all to the hilt.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 10, 2017 at 8:10 AM

      YOU need to come back maybe next SPRING and take some PHOTOS…….can you imagine THE FUN WE would have?Hope the end of school is near and you can put your feet up and relax………..what projects await your BEAUTIFUL EYE?
      XX

  • Laura
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 12:00 PM

    The garden is amazing! It will be a true stand out on the tour. Loved seeing Bansky, it must be so fun to have him visit. Your Mother looks great, so attractive in the Monet blouse.
    What a nice gift you received from your husband. That particular color of green Fiat
    is my favorite!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 10, 2017 at 8:08 AM

      HAPPY YOU APPROVE………….and I cannot BELIEVE I have been driving that FIAT going on 5 years!THE HUSBAND is VERY GOOD TO ME in THAT WAY………he does LISTEN when I think he isNOT!
      XX

  • Meason
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 11:55 AM

    As always, I lloved every single frame and your especially charming ideas and words
    When I get the chance I’m going to read all of your friends equally nice comments
    Have the best trip of your life to see the gardens
    Big hug
    ??? Meason

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:53 PM

      HELLO BIG FAN!!!!!!!!!
      WHEN ARE WE GOING TO CHAT???
      I NEED TO COME SOUTH…………….
      THANK YOU, I was just looking at the photos you sent me this morning!!!!!!
      XX

  • Anna Mapp
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 11:52 AM

    Also meant to say, have you tried wrapping some netting around the supports to help your jasmine to climb? It might need something to get its tendrils into

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:52 PM

      OKAY.
      I think I need to PULL IT…….on a ladder…….will take the ITALIAN with MORE PATIENCE THAN ME TO ASSIST!Perhaps MOTHER’s DAY will be THE DAY!
      XX

  • Anna Mapp
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 11:50 AM

    Your garden is really beautiful (am dead jealous), and I think it is quite English in style already! I have a lot of the plants you have too – except a snowball bush, always wanted one but have never had the space (too many lovely plants to choose from). You will enjoy Sissinghurst – it’s one of my favourites along with Great Dixter and Beth Chatto’s and some of the NGS gardens. Have a great trip!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:50 PM

      GOING TO GREAT DIXTER AS WELL…………!!!!
      MANY MANY THANKS!
      XX

  • Maywyn
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 10:28 AM

    Thank you for the fun

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:49 PM

      THANK YOU for FOLLOWING ALONG!!!
      XX

  • Katie Clooney
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 9:53 AM

    Your pics are GORGEOUS, Contessa! What a royal garden you have. I love the pic of you and your best friend! Will he be accompanying you on your voyage across the pond? Safe travels. Sounds like you are feeling better. Have a great week.

  • Lynda Stansberry
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 9:20 AM

    Why go to France? You have it all right there at home.

    Beautiful flowers and I love MR. Banks

  • Priscilla Pilkington
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 9:05 AM

    So annoying, I forgot my emojis don’t work on your site and come up as question marks. They are in fact at this end flowers……

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:48 PM

      GOT IT!!!!!!XX
      THANKS…….

  • Foolishfun
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 9:05 AM

    How I adore you and everything you do. I hope you are feeling very healthy and full of energy.
    Your garden is so lovely and I appreciate your ability to show us the beauty through your eyes and words. Thank you Contessa, for being you and sharing yourself with us. Your photos are exquisite, even though you were never trained! You know composition, color, and Style.
    Have a wonderful time in England. I so wish I was going with you!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:48 PM

      NOW< THATS A THOUGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NET TRIP! XX

  • Priscilla Pilkington
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 9:03 AM

    Such a beautiful garden and your lovely bushes in full bloom…..the scent of it must be quite heady……wonderful. You will so enjoy the Chelsea flower showand your trip to UK including Sissinghurst. Have a fun time ????

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:47 PM

      THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH………I WILL DO MY BEST!
      XX

  • Marsha Scott
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 8:45 AM

    Beatiful post, filled with love of flowers, fowl and animals. What could be better!!
    Your darling mother !!! What a wonderful thing to have her nearby and she looks so happy.
    Texas has just made it legal to have up to 6 chickens in one’s back yard, no matter where you live !!
    Well, except for highrise condos I guess. You look beautiful, as usual. And, just so much fun !!
    Sending love and wishes for a very HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY !!!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:46 PM

      I SEE YOU WANT TO MOVE TO THE HILL COUNTRY!!!!!!!!!
      DO IT!!!!!!
      PLEASE get SHEEP for me……name one CONTESSA and perhaps another DUCHESS???
      XX

  • LA CONTESSA
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 8:44 AM

    VIA EMAIL:
    SOOOO happy you are going on your England garden tour. I can hardly wait to read all about it!!
    You always look beautiful. I just read your post on your garden. WOW- just gorgeous!! So many flowers! You definitely could be the one giving tours. I also think your photos are top notch. I would love to be able to take beautiful pictures like you do.
    Yes, I also heard about the American Airlines uniforms. I do not know much about all the details, though.
    The middle aged Italian dresses very different in each region. In big cities, they dress very chic. In the Umbrian countryside, not so much. Our geometra {male}, is about the chicest man I know!! As for others, it really depends on the area!
    Elizabeth, I wish you safe travels and a wonderful trip.
    All the best, XOXOX Robin

  • Janet
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 8:30 AM

    Elizabeth,
    Your garden is beyond lovely! Your mom looks great and I loved the sombrero…..where there any margaritas involved!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:44 PM

      I DOUBT IT!!!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Jennifer Lively
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 8:21 AM

    Wow! How beautiful your garden is! All of the recent rain must have brought out those lush blooms. A tour of your garden is always a joy! Also Seeing Banks’s is such a treat! Thank you for sharing your little bit of heaven with us.

    Can’t wait to see your photographs of English gardens! Enjoy your trip!

  • Sheila from the luncheon
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 8:00 AM

    Thanks for sharing your beautiful garden. So happy for your trip to England. Takes lots of pictures.

    Love the green doors!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:43 PM

      IT’s a WILD GREEN with a tad bit of YELLOW in it……I needed to change up from the HUNTER GREEN!
      XX

  • Marilee Gramith
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 7:56 AM

    Please don’t return from England and start redesigning. You have a really breathtaking, cozy, unmatched Contessa design right where you are. As a fellow gardener ( in Minnesota) I know that gardens are never “done”, but they are such an amazing way of expressing yoursel within the elements of the universe that you don’t control . This is the Contessa garden. Add a nook of “English design” if you are so inspired. I’m guessing you already have some elements/flowers you can tap in to.
    Your love, vitality, creativity and spirit are evident in your photos Contessa. Kiss Banksie for me and ruffle those chicken feathers. Have a memorable, safe adventure and come back to us and the garden you love.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 4:43 PM

      WILL DO!
      I DO HAVE A BIT OF ENGLISH GARDEN ALREADY…….that that PIG likes to VISIT!I hope it is still there upon my return!If not we shall start AGAIN!
      BANKSY has been KISSED!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Linda
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 7:42 AM

    The garden is lovely as always. I have never seen yellow Jasmine before, where did you find it? Also, I can’t believe thatTHE ITALIAN is allowing that creeping fig on his pizza oven! 🙂

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 10:59 AM

      MORAGA GARDEN CENTER…………shall I pick you up some?
      SI,
      UNBELIEVABLE I KNOW!!!!!!!
      PS.BUT it canNOT grow on THE CASA!!!!!!!
      SO, it is watched CAREFULLY!!VERY SLOW GROWING!
      XX

  • Peg Burke
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 7:26 AM

    Thank you for the MARVELOUS tour!! Love it all!

  • fifi
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 7:03 AM

    Have a wonderful fun and SAFE trip my Contessa! xoxoxoxo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 10:57 AM

      PROMISE!
      XOXO

  • Mithra Ballesteros
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 6:43 AM

    What an idyll in which you dwell with pigs, roses, Italians, and chickens. The English have nothing on you. But enjoy just the same!! Can’t wait for the pics.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 10:56 AM

      I DWELL………………….I DO!
      I think I am probably MORE BRITISH than anything else however……MORE ECCENTRIC’s there I do believe.HOWEVER, I like your thought process……
      I am VERY LUCKY.
      I have created an environment that makes ME happy………….XX

  • Bungalow Hostess
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 6:33 AM

    Oh my your roses and garden are exquisite! Hope you have s wonderful trip in England visiting and touring all the gardens.
    You will come probably come home with some ideas to augment your beautiful and well established plantings…wishing you a safe journey.
    XO

  • Lesley UK
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 5:39 AM

    You will be SO welcome in the UK. I only wish I could meet you. This morning I ordered over 1,000 bulbs for my garden, and I also have about the same amount arriving any day now. The problem is, I have MS and can’t always see to my garden. Last week, I managed to plant about 30 bulbs, so I don’t know quite what to do. (My husband has absolutely no interest in the garden, or anything else for that matter) I expect I will have to pay someone to help. I’ve nothing against that. except I always think a garden is a very personal thing. (Sigh) By the way, I’m known around here for the eccentric(?) way I dress. Embroidered jackets, lace tops and skirts etc. (I’m 71, by the way) But I am me, and if people don’t like it or think it’s strange, then I figure that’s their problem and not mine. I also have waist length hair and have no intention of cutting it. I hope you really enjoy your trip to the UK. There are some beautiful gardens here, but please don’t change your garden too much, it’s fantastic just the way it is. Peace and Blessings

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 10:54 AM

      LESLEY!!!!!!
      SEND ME A PHOTO Of YOURSELF!
      MY email: iolacontessa@gmail.com
      I love how your ordering BULBS………………YES, you do need HELP.I agree The Garden is a personal THING!Is there not a YOUNG MAN in the neighborhood who can assist with the HOLES!Than you drop them in…………
      The ITALIAN doesNOT Like to GARDEN EITHER!!!!!!!!!!!
      IT IS MY DOMAIN.
      HE HAS THE GARAGE!!!!!!!!!
      YOU are right DRESS as YOU feel……..and it SOUNDS D I V I N E!
      XX

  • Jeane
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 5:27 AM

    I’m so happy you’re feeling well and are on your way to England. I’m looking forward to some vicarious armchair travel when you share your trip.
    Garden is so lush and such a joy to see. Thank you for being so generous with your life and sharing it with us!
    Hugs!
    Jeane

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 10:49 AM

      OH, THANK YOU for ENJOYING what I write about and SHARE………sometimes I wonder WHY I DO THIS!The ITALIAN doesNOT understand it!But Than again The ITALIAN isNOT a man to sit either……………he is on the MOVE 24/7.
      Millie Grazie,
      XX

  • Lillian Plummer
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 5:16 AM

    Simply stunning garden, lovely roses and best of all is darling Banksy, what a joy he is to run when you call him. Amazing piggy. You will have such a dream time in London. Don’t forget afternoon tea at the Ritz. Make sure you book now as it will be a busy time during the garden and flower shows.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 10:47 AM

      TEA time has been taken care of……….CHECK!
      AMAZING piggy is RIGHT!I was just feeding the chickens when I heard a loud bang……seems he got himself in the tool shed and knocked over my bicycle which blocked his way out!!!!After I picked up the BICI he knew to follow me out the other door!!!!!!HE IS NOW IN LEMON BALM HEAVEN down by the BANKSIA ROSE!
      XX

  • foodiefan
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 4:34 AM

    Reading your blog of such gorgeous photos as I go on a winding road up to The Peak in Hong Kong trying not to get car sick in the taxi!!! Is the pink rose you couldn’t remember the name called Cecil Brunner? If it is it is the rose I thinking of it is quite fragrant and wonderful in small posies and what I had in my bridal bouquet. I’m so jealous of your peonies!! They are not easy to grow. I used to have a snowball tree too in our last garden – they are such pretty trees. Have a wonderful trip to England – your head will be spinning with so many ideas to bring back home to your place!! Hope you get to Sissinghurst – such a jaw dropping garden design!! Went there in 1992 with the youngest son and was blown away! xo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:45 AM

      NO, not CECIL……..B. which I LOVE!Had her on the entryway to our HOME when we first moved here…………..the DEER LOVED HER TOO!
      YES JANE………..SISSINGHURST will be the LAST GARDEN I SEE!!!!I may just DROP RIGHT THERE.From what I have read about her and her GARDEN I think we would have been SOUL MATES!The ELIZABETHIAN MANOR home that was a ruin only standing really was the TOWER which became her office!She always wore PEARLS in THE GARDEN!She also had TWO SONS!One of which lives there now!I PROMISE TO DO A WHOLE POST ON THAT GARDEN…………..lets hope I have enough MEGA BITES LEFT!!!!!!XO

  • D. A. Wolf
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 4:32 AM

    Your garden is divine, your photographs are beautiful, your fountain is super cool, I want to sit on that bench and just breathe in the beauty, your mother is amazing as are you, and you must be so excited about the trip! And… It is almost Mother’s Day, so wishing you a super wonderful mom’s day as well.

    (I love the hats.)

    xoxo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:39 AM

      OH, Yes MOTHER’s DAY………….I think the only ones around on THAT day will be THE ITALIAN and the FURRY BEASTIES!I will sit in the garden and remember those days…………
      those older ITALIAN ladies were RIGHT!Time FLY’s………………..it was just Yesterday I was driving Carpool and Tennis lessons and overseeing the homework being done!How lucky I was in a way………..NO CELL PHONES for these children of mine until High school Junior Year I think.Everything was done the OLD~FASHIONED WAY…….they actually learned to write CURSIVE!!!!!!!!!!!Do they even teach PRINTING anymore?Odd to think about as I type……..MY KIDS were THE LAST Generation of the old ways without the Technology.

  • DaniBP
    · Reply

    May 9, 2017 at 4:09 AM

    Love your garden so much. It’s so beautiful and is like a balm for the eyes.
    I am wishing you the best trip! Have a wonderful time Contessa and I cannot wait to read your impressions of those gorgeous English gardens when you return. Safe Travels to you Dear Contessa XX

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:31 AM

      I WANT TO HEAR ABOUT ITALY!!!!!!!!!!!!
      BLOG SOON?
      IF NOT I will call YOU if you email me your number!!!!!!!
      “BALM FOR THE EYES”………how I love THAT description!
      XX

  • Sandra SALLIN
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 11:29 PM

    Love, love, love!!! Is Banksy named after the rose??? I’ve never seen a yellow jasmine. Can’t you train the jasmine over the rods?? Just luscious all around!!!!!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:28 AM

      NO!
      YES!!!!!!!!!
      IT makes me HAPPY but I always can SPY WORK to be done!I am HAPPY to SIT and read or STARE at the GREEN around me……….as you know it does not always look like THIS!SPRING is the BEST!SO, why am I headed on a trip soon????
      Hopefully, The ITALIAN will keep it going!!!
      XX

  • Marla in the OC
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 11:05 PM

    Love this post and LOVE seeing Betty looking so well! May need to copy that basket on the walker for my Mom. I think of you often and regret not commenting more! xo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:25 AM

      DO COPY………..and LATE COMMENTS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME!
      Head to Roger’s for ME and if you spy ERIC snap a photo of him!!!!!!
      I bet you all are into SUMMER by now……..still cool up here!
      XX

  • ellie's friend
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 10:12 PM

    Buon viaggio! Loved the views of the garden and I finally got a view of the pizza oven!
    Can hardly wait to hear all about your garden tours.

  • Lee Anne
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 9:36 PM

    I’m so glad your garden popped before you left. What a treasure! I’ll be thinking of you and all the fun that awaits. Safe travels!

  • Nancy Case
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 5:30 PM

    Such a gorgeous garden tour Contessa! So much love going on in that garden. I adore the Clematis! I must get one! How did that pretty pink rose slip in there?? Only white and yellow are welcome so I thought:) I love the view looking up from your garden couch and the Beasties. The pizza oven warms my heart as we have enjoyed delicousness from the Italian’s hands serving us homemade pizza. Yum yum. So wonderful you are off to England soon. I know you will share every detail with us and we will drink it all in. xoxoxo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:23 AM

      THAT Pink becomes PURE WHITE!
      I will show YOU TODAY!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Carol
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 4:31 PM

    Gorgeous garden photos! Happy to hear that you are going to go to the Chelsea Garden Show after all. You must be feeling better!

    BTW – I think that the Jasmine needs something to grip in order to climb. It circles round and round but the metal rods are probably too slippery. Jasmine doesn’t have holdfasts like Ivy or downward facing thorns like climbing roses. Maybe The Italian can add some little hooks so the vines can be tied to the rods. Every pot of Jasmine I have ever bought has been tied to a wooden trellis.

    Have a wonderful trip. Looking forward to your posts from England.

    Hugs from Carol

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:21 AM

      Yes, thanks for your suggestion………..I have pulled and the other iron posts are doing well.IT does GRAB but needs help as you mentioned.I need to get on a ladder and ATTEND it’s NEEDS is what I really NEED to DO!
      The fragrance is worth THE WAIT!
      MERCI!

  • Mrs. Rose
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 4:19 PM

    Elizabeth,
    YOU are just one enchanted woman. Everything you touch is magical from your garden, to your photos, to your accessories and more!!! Thank you for sharing. Your post always warm my heart.
    XOXO

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:17 AM

      I was once called an ENCHANTRESS!!!!!!
      I ADORE THAT WORD………..
      THANK YOU!
      You are my BIGGEST FAN!
      XOXO

  • Anita
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 2:42 PM

    What a wonderful post!!!!
    I’m so excited about seeing all these fabulous photos of your garden.
    It is heaven on earth!!!
    Mum is looking very well too Elizabeth.
    I love how you personalised her walker with the handmade African basket.
    Only you could think of that!!
    That holiday is looming up quickly now and I can’t wait to see you in action in the UK.
    Ciao for now Bella
    Neat xx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:16 AM

      YES,I thought maybe another would do the same for their parent as it is the perfect vessel for a newspaper, tissues,magazines etc!
      At Christmas we had the walker decorated with GOLD GARLAND!
      Does that surprise YOU?!!!
      This VITA is ready to GO!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Libby
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 12:51 PM

    I love that gorgeous yellow albutilon, so pretty and what a color! Your garden is superb and so very you… and yes, the garden tour will certainly change how you think about it all. Have a wonderful time and tell The Italian he is a keeper, for sure!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:11 AM

      I WILL LIBBY!!!!!!!!
      THANK YOU!
      XX

  • Loree
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 12:27 PM

    Your roses are gorgeous. I have never seen so many petals on roses. Enjoy your trip to England. I have a post about England coming up soon – sadly, not about gardens though. Yours is so pretty and whimsical. I would spend most of my days lounging around in the shade of your bushes.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:10 AM

      YOU can say I have been doing the same these past few months………of NOT driving about!!!
      WE have created a SPOT to rest and relax……………room for the animals to ROAM and an Oven that is MAGICAL in the BREAD & PIZZA department!We have even done the TURKEY for THANKS GIVING in it!!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Parnassus
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 11:49 AM

    Hello Contessa, I love your garden and I love your Mother! My real ultimate goal is to have an orchard, but if there were any space or energy left I would like a garden on the order of yours–lots of green and lots of surprises. Flowers kind of secondary for me, but yours are just beautiful, and the photos look well-lit and professional.
    –Jim

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 9:05 AM

      Jim,
      Thank You so much!
      To have an ORCHARD……..what a DREAM!
      There is a lot of GREEN because of the RAIN we have had this year.
      The flowers LOOK good in SPRING than they kinda limp along…….as the weather gets HOTTER!
      I will be SHARING THAT AS WELL come summer!
      I PHONE!
      OLD ONE AT THAT!
      XX

  • Loreen
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 11:31 AM

    Thank you for the Home and Garden tour! Fabulous! You must have a garden staff of 15 to help you take care of the beautiful grounds. They all look so lush. You have a green thumb for sure…another business…landscape design! Wonderful news you are feeling better! I can feel your renewed energy! Just in time for your exciting trip. Can’t wait to see all your pictures!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:59 AM

      NO STAFF!!!!!!!
      The ITALIAN is THE WATER BOY!!!!!He fixes the watering system.
      I do have a MOW and BLOW team that come once a week.
      As far as feeding and pruning…….and planting THAT IS MY JOB!!!!
      XX

  • Sue Fogarty
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 11:13 AM

    How perfect, a Banksia rose AND a Banksy pig! Love all the yellow! Such a cheerful colour. It must fill you with such joy. Have a glorious time in England.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:58 AM

      Isn’t THAT funny!!!!!!!!!!
      The pig was named after the GRAFFITI artist…………because of his colors.
      The BANKSIA ROSE has been a FAVORITE of mine for years!
      A MATCH…………thats ALL I CAN SAY!
      XX

  • Merrybe
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 10:58 AM

    Bon Voyage! Enjoy every single moment! So glad you are feeling better and good to go … And when you come back, don’t change a thing … it’s all YOU! (but I could happily move right in …)

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:56 AM

      MERRYBE………………..you are SO RIGHT!
      IT is ALL ME!
      How do YOU know that?!!!
      XX

  • Val
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 9:52 AM

    Truly only one word can be used to describe your garden- DIVINE!!!!!!!
    Oh! maybe a few more-PARADISE!!!! HEAVEN!!!!! Very glad to hear
    that you are feeling better with “things” under control. Have a wonderful
    trip-looking forward to pictures of the fabulous gardens of England:)

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:54 AM

      I PROMISE TO BRING BACK LOADS OF PHOTOS!!!!!!!!!
      Perhaps a GOOD story or two as well……….
      I wish I could show you what it looked like 22 years ago…………loads of pine trees and VINCA which is pretty but ALL unusable land as it dropped off.The ITALIAN terraced it will show that later when JASMINE starts to bloom and white roses………..
      I PROMISE!
      XX

  • Marci
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 9:43 AM

    I have always wanted to see gardens in England in person, too. Hope you enjoy your trip. However, your garden is gorgeous! No need to change it.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:50 AM

      IT needs some work…………but I will GET INSPIRATION NO DOUBT from this trip which will make THE ITALIAN just roll his EYES…….BUT THAN he usually does it!!!
      THANKS, MARCI!!
      APPRECIATE your kind words………..XX

  • Lisa Self
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 8:39 AM

    OMG beautiful! My favorite is you and Banksy. I love that pig!
    Please say “hola Amiga” to your Mom for me.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:48 AM

      VA BENE……………GIRLFRIEND!!!
      I cannot recall the word for OKAY in SPANISH!YOU were always better than me in THAT CLASS!!!!!!
      XX

  • Stella Martin
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 8:37 AM

    Unbelievably fabulous garden. Why am I not surprised!!! Excited for your upcoming trip. Can’t wait to see pics. Travel safely. Cheers, Stella.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:47 AM

      MOre photos of BANSKY coming YOUR WAY!!!!!!!!XX

  • Taste of France
    · Reply

    May 8, 2017 at 8:19 AM

    You may claim not to know anything about photography, but you have a keen eye for composition.
    It helps to have a good subject, too, and your garden is breathtaking.
    I love your Cinquecento!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      May 9, 2017 at 8:46 AM

      I LOVE MY CINQUECENTO TOO!!!!!!
      Imagine I use to drive a BIG PICK UP TRUCK for my SHOP!!!
      I can park ANYWHERE!
      U ~ TURNS are EASY!!!!!
      NO worries about GARAGE HEIGHTS!
      MERCI MERCI……..all done with THAT I PHONE!
      XX

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