FOR ELLIE…………..

April 11, 2016 150 Comments

MY PAVLOVA for ELLIE………..

PAVLOVA

HELLO……………

I have AN AMAZING Story to share with YOU ALL.Do you recall when I went to PARIS a couple of years ago and met with ELLie? She writes the BLOG called HAVE SOME DECORUM.

Well, she is fighting for HER LIFE at the moment.

There are SOME REALLY GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE.

One of those people I shall refer to as CAROL well she sent me a box with a VINTAGE CHANEL handbag and an Edwardian Garden Dress to sell for Ellie at the upcoming SHOW called REMNANTS of the PAST.

This woman doesNOT know Me Nor Ellie.

She reads OUR BLOGS!

Here is HER LETTER TO ME.

Dated MARCH 26,2016.

Just a few days after Ellie’s birthday!

DEAR CONTESSA,

Please forgive this unsolicited package ,but three events prompted me to send it to you.

1.The upcoming REMNANTS OF THE PAST show.

2.These lovely items have been in my closet, unused for too long.

3.Ellie’s current situation.

I propose you sell these items in your booth.Each one is probably worth in the neighborhood of $300.00.(You know your market better than I do so you can judge if that is too high or too low.)

The first item is a Vintage Chanel purse.I inherited it from my very fashionable aunt who lived near Chicago.She obviously used it but it is still in excellent condition.It was made in the late 1970’s to early 80’s.She was a world traveler so it might have been bought in Chicago,New York or even Paris!

The second item is much older – probably 1910 or earlier.It is in almost perfect condition because it is made from linen which lasts forever!I love the intricate stitching and tiny,little mother of pearl buttons.I bought it 25 years ago from the estate of one of the Trustees of USC who lived in a beautiful,old(and well maintained)Victorian Mansion in Redlands.The woman to whom it belonged was nearly 100 when she died in 1990.I suspect that this little dress was hers from when she was a little girl(1900 to 1910).

Hope you accept this idea.

The other goodies – SPA SALTS and Fragrant candle in a Vintage Punch cup are from my FRENCH FLOWER FARM.You impress me as a lady who likes to be pampered.The Mignonette Fragrance is a unique blend of Violet,Green Citrus and White Orchid.It’s feminine, vintage and a bit flirty – just like YOU!

ENJOY!

CAROL

October 8,2014

Your Contessa & Ellie

I think YOU ALL can IMAGINE how I felt when I read this letter and started opening the BOX.

I want to take this a STEP FURTHER and offer it TO HER FANS who have been READING her blog and leaving HEALING and LOVING comments.There are SO MANY of us who FELL in LOVE with ELEANOR O’Connell Decret.

SHE BASICALLY ROCKED OUR WORLD.

We lived for HER NEXT POST.

We LAUGHED OUT LOUD.

WE Cheered HER ON………

WE AGREED with HER Verbal abuse.

We couldNOT believe The FIGHT she had to endure.

We LOVED her STORIES.

We LOVED HER MOM’s RECIPES!

We loved HER WHOLE PERSONA.

WE LOVE YOU ELLIE……………..We are ALL waiting for your APPEARANCE on the BLOG.

I would like to offer these TWO items to your READERS and MY READERS.

If you would like to make an OFFER please leave me a comment or send me an email at

iolacontessa@gmail.com

TO LEAVE A COMMENT click on the TITLE Of this POST AT the top of this email that was sent to YOU!The comment section is a continuation of the BLOG POST as I answer MOST comments as they come in………..and then there is other conversation between other commenters.WHICH CAN BE SO FUN!

SO, IF YOU READ:

HAVE SOME DECORUM and would like to HELP Ellie live a bit MORE comfortably I ASK YOU To BID on these TWO items as if it belonged to your long LOST Relative!!!

For those of YOU who have MISSED out on this FUN LOVING CALIFORNIA GAL who MARRIED A FRENCHMAN and MOVED TO PARIS with ALS Take a FEW HOURS to CRUISE her SITE…….

HERE Is ELLIe’s BLOG

BEWARE…….the day I found HER I spent the next THREE DAYS Going BACK and READING ALL HER POSTS……………

LET THE BIDDING COMMENCE.

Remember PEOPLE SHE entertain us…………….

Now she NEEDS US to help pay a few BILLS.

If these items DO NOT SPEAK to YOUR SOUL you can go to the GO FUND ACCOUNT.Donations start at ONE DOLLAR…….CAN YOU will YOU………PLEASE.

HER BEST FRIEND STARTED this account………CLICK to SEE who THAT friend is.She is ALMOST as FAMOUS as OUR GIRL Ellie………….and is fighting a different battle with LYME Disease.

It is VERY EASY…………..I DID it MONTHS AGO.

Every dollar HELPS.

HERE TO DONATE

EDWARDIAN GARDEN DRESS

FRONT

BACK of EDWARDIAN DRESS

DETAIL……..

CHANEL HANDBAG from the 1970’s or 80’s…….

A closer LOOK at those GORGEOUS C C’s

Donated by a LOVELY WOMAN to HELP Ellie and her FAMILY deal with the costs of ALS.

CLASSIC WHITE……….she would like that CAROL.

THANK YOU.

I will ZIP to SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA one day and GIVE YOU………….. A BIG HUG!!!!

I HOPE I will SEE a FEW of YOU at the REMNANTS SHOW…….if NOT I will SHARE a few PHOTOS in another POST and YOU can SEE what YOU MISSED out on!

ARE you STAYING in TOUCH with YOUR FRIENDS and FAMILY?DO you pick up that old fashion PHONE on the WALL and CHECK in with people from time to time?

I find my PHONE seldom rings…..No one seems to have time to just CATCH UP.

Are WE really SO busy!

XOXO

150 Comments

Leave your reply.

contessa
· Reply

April 18, 2016 at 8:34 PM

CATHERINE……………..
GORGEOUS YOU!I will definitely READ BEING MORTAL……………..THANK YOU for YOUR comments HERE……….I am trying to write a NEW Blog POST so WE ALL can MOVE On.
XO
Queen of trashy treasures
· Reply

April 18, 2016 at 6:33 PM

I believe Gloria should HAVE SOME DECORUM!!!!!!!!!!
- Catherine
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 8:24 PM
  
  Just remember there are always two sides to a situation. Maybe posting pictures of the care givers wasn’t the right thing to do, but if I was receiving poor care I would do what was necessary to bring attention to the situation. There are excellent care givers and nurses, but there are also those who don’t care. And I speak from experience having been there with loved ones. I can remember my step mother and grandmother crying out in pain because the nurses at palliative care were not responsive to their needs. Perhaps it’s the bureaucracy that creates the situation, regardless someone needs to speak out about the atrocities that occur in our health care system. And let me also add getting a loved one into hospice care isn’t always a piece of cake. But once they are accepted the difference in care is exordinary.
  I have a tremendous amount of respect for Ellie. She’s a human being, not perfect and you may or may not always agree with her opinion. But you can’t discount her fight to live with ingenuity and dignity. I for one love a fighter!
  And I think it’s great to post comments with opposing views. We need to have these conversations or change will not happen. I’d like to suggest reading Being Mortal by Atul Gawande. It will touch you profoundly. I think because of Ellie many of us are thinking of our own mortality. And I’d like to thank her for bringing this topic to the forefront. Yes we love her for her expertise on beauty and design, but I for one like that she has gone much deeper. Love you Ellie!!
Queenoftrashytteasures
· Reply

April 18, 2016 at 5:26 PM

Dearest Elizabeth, to call you a bully is LAUGHABLE! You are one of the kindest most vibrant people I have had the pleasure of meeting. DO NOT let THEM dull your SPARKLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Keep being you as you are wonderful!
Catherine
· Reply

April 18, 2016 at 2:12 PM

Why not donate what you think it’s worth to read Ellie’s blog? If you think of it as a fair exchange it’s not really giving her something for nothing. Ellie’s worked hard to support her self the best she could. After all how many of us could do the same if we were in the same condition? Just a thought.
I wish I could adopt Teddy, but unfortunatly I have two protective, lively Jack Russels. I know someone will take him home soon.
And FYI, I made a donation and will make another one soon. Also looking forward to her book.
Love all you bloggers who care for Ellie!
- Catherine
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 2:27 PM
  
  Oh and I read the blog A Taste of Tea weeks ago when I read a mean comment on Ellie’s Instagram. I recognized the blog for what it is, a trash talking tabloid. Made me so mad I immediately made a donation to Ellie. In fact the blog reminded me of those old trashy tabloid magazines my grandmother used to buy at the grocery store! Not my cup of tea ????
- Gloria the Troll
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 4:58 PM
  
  I agree that A Taste of Tea is awful…..but the photos that Ellie took are real…..and so were her comments. It’s really easy to justify ignoring the message because we can find something to dislike about the messenger. Just like me….being labeled a troll because I am pointing out that the empress (in this case) is wearing no clothing.
  I have such respect for nurses and caregivers, and especially those wonderful people who work in comfort care and hospice. It takes a special person indeed. Those young women in Ellie’s cruel posts look like deer in the headlights. The whole sorry enterprise came from a surprisingly dark place. I understand now, that Ellie was ASKED TO LEAVE to care center. Those places NEVER ask someone to leave unless…..well unless the person is someone like Ellie.
  Please don’t use ALS as a justification for this kind of behavior. We all know someone traveling a difficult journey….as usually near the end of life people are gracious and loving, and appreciative towards those trying to help.
  Ellie admits openly that she speaks badly to her husband and daughter….and of course we think it’s funny………..not anymore……not after the posts I’ve seen. I feel sorry for that family now.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 5:21 PM
  
  GLORIA,
  I thank YOU for YOUR VISITS…….BUT enough is ENOUGH.It is CLEAR to me YOU have NOT been FOLLOWING Ellie from the START.Where most of us have and have been HUMORED by HER TRUTHFULNESS and WITT.I can understand YOU not “GETTING ELLIE” if you just came onboard.Your whole point is she is WEALTHY therefore why ask for donations?CORRECT?Point TAKEN……..Now lets MOVE On.
  I am asking YOU kindly NEVER to visit HERE AGAIN.
  As you can SEE ELLIE was here TODAY…….I can only HOPE she did not READ the comments!!!
  This woman is VERY VERY sick…….WEALTHY or POOR she doesNOT DESERVE what your TOSSING AROUND.SO, COOL IT.
  SHE HAS ENTERTAIN US and WE have become HER FRIENDS………….SO lets leave this PLATFORM for HAPPY GOOD~ BYES.
  You have UPSET me NO END.
  ANY comment YOU leave will be DELETED from HERE ON OUT……………..
  Enough said…………….CIAO!!!
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    April 18, 2016 at 6:03 PM
    
    Believe me, Gloria. This is not an empress with no clothing. You know nothing of what you speak.
    We all feel very sorry for this whole family for many reasons. You do not know Ellie. You are not welcome. Take your judgements and your opinions…..and go away.
    We love Ellie, we love her dog, and we are trying to do constructive things.
    
    There but for the grace of God go you.
    
    Good bye.
- Gloria the Troll
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 6:44 PM
  
  So, Contessa and Penelope are pushing me in my locker and slamming the door shut on my fingers. A double mean girl team-up. Sounds and feels like social media bullying to me. Hmmmm…..
  Why are my caustic comments not taken with as much humor and awesome admiration as say……Ellie? Perhaps if I added some crude language and cruelty to others…I might garner some respect and admiration?
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 11:59 PM
  
  No one is pushing you into any locker. You are not a victim. You are a troll. Interesting…googling you…..
  
  You do not exist with that name. Interesting! You are a nobody???? I think you are a fictitious name! which is what I have thought from your first comment!
  
  have a great life!!!!
Gloria
· Reply

April 18, 2016 at 8:57 AM

Hello again, Gloria the Troll here…..
PLEASE Google Ellie and you will find a blog, A Taste of Tea…..an icky blog about reality television. They have posts and photos Ellie put up about her nurses in hospital, before she took them down….and they are AWFUL. Please discuss.
Then, of course feel free to jump all over me.
- Tracy Herrin
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 9:06 AM
  
  Go crawl back under the rock you came out from.
- MarieLouise
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 2:26 PM
  
  The blog you speak of is nothing but a sensationalized celebrity gossip rag that is only mentioning Ellie because they can also drop her celebrity friend’s name and thereby increase their Google page rank. Our friend Ellie’s life is in the balance and she facing the kind of emotional pain and physical suffering that most of us will never experience. She lives each day with the knowledge that she will have to leave her 19 year old daughter behind. Before you stand in judgment of someone you don’t know at all, perhaps you should imagine yourself in her shoes, or at the very least examine more than one moment in time. OR, you can pat yourself on the back, secure in the knowledge that you will be nothing but a magnanimous, benevolent saint when you find yourself faced with a tortuous terminal illness. I bid you adieu.
Ellie
· Reply

April 18, 2016 at 8:37 AM

Dear Elizabeth, I just want to take the time to let you know how grateful I am for our friendship. You are such a unique woman and you have a heart of gold. Thank you so much for organizing this auction on my behalf. It is so kind of you and Carol. I am sending you both all of my love from Paris. Again, you are a gem and one of a kind. I absolutely adore you. xoxo Ellie
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 10:55 AM
  
  I ADORE YOU………..and HEATHER did give me the MESSAGE!I am on TASK HERE with TEDDY……..NO worries THERE!!! WE will find HIM A GOOD GOOD HOME.I PROMISE!
  YOU ARE A GEM…..I THANK YOU for all the LAUGHS and POINTERS!
  REST…….JUST BE with GRACIE and DAVID NOW.
  XOXO
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 11:55 PM
  
  Ellie we love you so much! I hope you know! I hope Gracie knows that she is welcome to visit us; Elizabeth in Orinda…..and me in Montecito whenever she is in California!!!
  
  Much love to you…….and Teddy will be in a good home very soon……we PROMISE!!!!
  We adore you!!!
Caroline
· Reply

April 17, 2016 at 7:39 PM

Purchasing Ellie’s cookbooks are another way to support our beloved Ellie.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 8:37 PM
  
  THEY ARE INDEED!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 10:03 PM
  
  YES!!!!
Bungalow Hostess
· Reply

April 17, 2016 at 5:43 PM

Gloria left a similar comment on my blog after I posted the links for Ellie…
I am not to sure why she has taken this stand. It seems a little harsh at this time to be judging someone who is fighting a devastating disease and struggling to stay alive.
Kindness is always in style and we need to be mindful of others who could use our help and support…we may not see eye to eye on everything but I do believe that if we take the “higher road” and be tolerant that the world would be a better place for all of us.

Please stay positive Contessa and know that there are many readers who applaud your noble efforts on behalf of Ellie.
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 11:40 PM
  
  Gloria is a troll. Plain and simple.
  
  In Internet slang, a troll (/?tro?l/, /?tr?l/) is a person who sows discord on the Internet by starting arguments or upsetting people, by posting inflammatory,[1] extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community (such as a newsgroup, forum, chat room, or blog) with the deliberate intent of provoking readers into an emotional response[2] or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion,[3] often for their own amusement.
Tish Jett
· Reply

April 17, 2016 at 2:57 PM

Whoa, Gloria!

Isn’t it interesting in life that there are always those willing to distribute random acts of insensitivity and unkindness?

Let me edify you about the social security system in France as it applies to medical coverage, of which I benefit in perhaps the same way Ellie does — we’re both married to French men:

1.) It is indeed a remarkable system.
2.) In many cases it does not cover 100 percent of a procedure (let’s use the word “procedure” to cover everything to make this easy with the exception of medications and additional personnel which she needs 24/7)
3.) Those without a complementary private insurance policy, which picks up the remainder of say for example, an act that is covered 70% by the SS system, pay the rest out of pocket.
4.) Please go to this link where you can see an example of some of the payment scales to help you understand, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_care_in_France
5.) I have a private insurance plan; my husband does not. Like all such plans, as you probably know, some are better than others. Some have deductibles.

Perhaps before you attack someone as kind and generous as Elizabeth you should be better informed. I would imagine that these years and years of suffering Ellie has endured has cost her a small fortune, even in France. As for what it has cost her in every other way, I think we can agree is and has been a tragedy. We can only imagine how her daughter and husband have suffered as well.

To tell you the truth, if we could all simply surround Ellie with flowers — or anything at all that would bring just the slightest joy into her life — it would be worth it. She has given all of us who read her blog one of the greatest lessons in life — live it to the fullest.

Surely you can agree that is a precious gift.
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:56 PM
  
  Thank you , Tish. You, as a resident of France, know all of what you speak!
  
  Gloria; I cannot even tell you how little respect I have for you and your comments. You are a despicable troll. I have encountered people just like you. At least you use your name. Or “a name”! Shame on you. Who you are we have no idea. Here is what you are not: a kind, sensitive, and empathetic person. Shame on you. And it is you who is a bully. Go away. Pick on someone your own size. Small..small…..SMALL!!! Elizabeth is BIG BIG BIG!! GENEROUS of soul…….and the farthest thing from a BULLY as anyone you could ever find. You must have a dreadful life.
  Goodbye.
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 12:18 AM
  
  Tish……such a good try….and education for all of us who live in the US!
  
  “Gloria” (I do not believe that is her name……I actually think she is a man….who knows?) Is a troll who attacked me often when I commented on another blog. This is apparently a common thing. Deranged people who are consumed with jealousy and hatred write comments just like this on blogs….to enthusiastic and happy people! My troll…(may be the same person…no way to know); accused me of being “manic”; “Manic-deppressive”; and also suggested I see my family doctor about “Alzheimer’s” He/she diagnosed me as having it.
  Joni of Cote de Texas (where this all transpired) explained to me about “trolls”. Despicable miserable people who look for happy people all over the internet and find out about them….and write devastatingly cruel things. I am pretty sure Elizabeth doesn’t allow “anonymous” comments…but she is getting so many she cannot approve every one! I think this creepy troll…made up a name so he/she could be published. I recognize his MO. Honestly; I think it is the same creep!
  thank you for defending our darling Elizabeth….the creature from heaven!
  
  Can you imagine how infuriating she is to a miserable troll? I am also completely infuriating!
  
  A delightful place to be! Infuriating to a troll! Have a GREAT DAY GLORIA!!! As if!!!
- Gloria the Troll
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 6:28 PM
  
  No, I am not a sick and deranged man.
  
  Ms. Bianchi….you flatter yourself…I have never heard of you, nor read your blog. I have no idea what the name of your blog is and I have a feeling by your comments that I would not enjoy it.
  
  My name is Gloria Nickels and I live in Washington DC.
  
  I am proudly taking a stand against cruelty to all kinds of service workers including and especially hard working nurses and caregivers. (Ellie)
  
  I am also expressing dismay that so many intelligent and thinking women of conscience idolize such a cruel, spiteful and spoiled woman. (Ellie again) I see nothing, nothing at all in her life, illness, and impending death that I wish to emulate. So sue me.
  
  Finally, and this is especially for you, Ms. Bianchi…..I am taking a stand today against bullying .
  What is it that is so threatening to you , personally, that you must verbally attack and bully me because I have expressed an opinion you don’t agree with? Why are you so invested in this that you are led to speculating who I am and attaching all manner of terrible moral traits because my opinion defies your narrative ?
  I suspect that you might see me as a new voice that has breached the wall of a very tight group of people who seem to agree completely, and at all times, with each other.
  
  From this day forth, I will proudly be known as Gloria the Troll, a voice out of the wilderness….a voice from Washington DC, as it were.
  
  With amused affection…..
  s
  
  ma
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    April 18, 2016 at 11:37 PM
    
    Congratulations!
    It is fascinating that you are so quite sure you would not enjoy my blog! You are calling both Elizabeth and me bullies. Neither one of us has ever bullied anyone in our lives.
    
    Here is the definition of a “troll” in “internet lingo”
    
    “In Internet slang, a troll (/?tro?l/, /?tr?l/) is a person who sows discord on the Internet by starting arguments or upsetting people, by posting inflammatory,[1] extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community (such as a newsgroup, forum, chat room, or blog) with the deliberate intent of provoking readers into an emotional response[2] or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion,[3] often for their own amusement.”
    
    BINGO!!! You are a “perfect match!!!”
    
    Yes…..You, dear Gloria, exactly match that description!
    You do not know; nor want to know any of us. You have not educated yourself at all about Ellie. Elizabeth, nor me!
    Elizabeth and I are both very strong and happy and successful women. We are happily married. We have terrific children (in my case, terrific grandchildren also!!!) Dogs, cats, chickens….I have wild ducks! We lead very happy lives. Neither one of us has an “iota” of bully in us.
    
    You go on advocating for great treatment of caregivers…..we could not agree more! Brava!
    Please exit….stage left.
    
    We are also loyal. We are having a lot of fun in our lives……with children, animals…etc. We love our lives, our friends, our blogs and our followers!
    Not one bully in the bunch.
    But we are fiercely loyal. FIERCELY!!! And we defend each other and our friends.
    And our animals……
    Take a peek at my website…..www.mccormickinteriors.com. Click on “blog” just in case you are curious. I doubt you want to know.
    
    Penelope
Carol
· Reply

April 17, 2016 at 2:13 PM

FEAR OF FLYING??? No, Contessa, I did not get you confused with SAJ. In fact, I did not see his comment until this morning. I was just making some “creative” suggestions about how to get Teddy to the US in the Passenger compartment. However, we have have shipped several dogs back and forth across the Pacific in Cargo and they were no worse for wear.

You may not believe this, but once I was on a KLM flight from LAX to Honolulu. The entire back half of the plane was blocked off. When I asked one of the Flight Attendants, she told me they were shipping 6 horses. I couldn’t believe it! To prove it, she let me peek. It was amazing. Each horse was in a sort of sling so their feet could touch the floor but they could not swing around to touch other or hit the inside of the plane. Never thought about transporting horses before, but they were certainly too big to go in the Cargo hold. AND, no horsey smells. Well, somebody had big bucks!
France is a BIG country. Someone will take Teddy. Give it a month or two and then decide. Besides, dogs can’t tell time!
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 10:09 PM
  
  Of course we believe it! How delightful! They must have been either racehorses or Polo Ponies!
  Sure beats taking a boat for a horse!
  
  Great story!! We will figure it out!
  
  We just want to find a fabulous, happy and loving home for Teddy…..who languished in a shelter for 4 long years…..and he loved Ellie……it had to rip her heart out to leave him. I think I might have died on the spot! This dog needs to be given a wonderful home……and fast…….so Ellie will have peace of mind about it!!
Theodora Dorf
· Reply

April 17, 2016 at 12:52 PM

I have just found Ellie’s blog and yours. Such amazing women! What is the issue with Teddy, the dog? I read back in both blogs, but maybe I am too out of it to find it. Does he need rescuing?
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 2:01 PM
  
  YES!
  HE NEEDS A HOME…….HE is a BIG DOG.WHERE ARE YOU can you……ADOPT HIM!
  Send me an email if you have QUESTIONS……………..iolacontessa@gmail.com
  ALSO may I refer you to LOST IN ARLES blog………HEATHER she knows TEDDY and can GIVE YOU MORE FACTS then ME!!!
  WELCOME……….WE are ALL a bit WIRED with the NEWS of ELLIE and NOW this…………any HELP you can offer is WONDERFUL!
Gloria
· Reply

April 17, 2016 at 9:29 AM

La Contessa,
You are a hysteric, aren’t you?
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 11:57 AM
  
  A wildly emotional and exaggerated reaction?
  COULD BE ME in a HEART BEAT!!!!!!!!!
  XX
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    April 17, 2016 at 9:10 PM
    
    We adore La Contessa! I have also been accused of being “an hysteric” by trolls on blogs….
    
    We are not hysterics! We are emotional…..enthusiastic, and to some CRAZY!! We are the happiest people we know!!!!
- Gloria
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 1:18 PM
  
  I think you might be a BULLY, too.
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    April 17, 2016 at 10:06 PM
    
    YOU are a TROLL and a JERK!!!!
    
    Go AWAY!!!!
- SAJ
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 5:32 PM
  
  Hysteric? I agree. In fact I would say hysteria is the perfect description of her WRITING. I’ve tried to figure out her system of selective caps and I can’t ever. Is it for nouns? Emphasis? I don’t know. Personally I find it very ENDEARING.
  Bully? What? do you take offense to her trying to raise the price of the Chanel bag? That’s just how you host a benefit. it’s all in good fun for our beloved Ellie. At one point or another I think we’ve all been bullied. By kids at school or parents in the neighborhood or hell even at retirement homes as I see visiting my grandpa. But playful banter on her own blog? I can’t see bullying.
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    April 18, 2016 at 12:25 AM
    
    You darling……..you can’t see bullying because there is NONE! (I wish I could do the caps) it is a talent only Elizabeth has…….it makes perfect sense with her….I just fall flat when I try!
    
    This is a troll. You can read in my other comments….I think this same creepy troll has followed me on other blogs. He/she cannot comment on my blog because I have to approve each comment. Elizabeth is getting hundreds now…..so she has not enough time to approve. This person is sick sick sick. Oh well.
Renee Robinson and Kevin Crosby
· Reply

April 16, 2016 at 6:04 PM

Dear Elizabeth, we so enjoyed meeting you today and thank you for taking your time to chat! Kevin and I decided to forego our planned lunch in downtown Pleasanton and will be donating to Ellie’s fund instead (money better spent and more meaningful). Now enjoy the rest of the weekend and as we mentioned earlier today go see the movie “My name is Doris” with Sally Field – you’ll love it!!
Renee and Kevin in Northern California
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 8:43 PM
  
  I WILL…………….and I can NOT THANK YOU enough for stopping by my booth and telling ME you FOLLOW LA CONTESSA and HAVE SOME DECORUM!!!
  HOW SPECIAL…………..I THANK YOU from ELLIE…………….DO you have room for a TEDDY?If I came up with THE MONEY to get HIM HERE?BOLD QUESTION I Know…………..BUT just think I could VISIT on a regular BASIS and be the TEDDY BENEFACTOR!!!I Know WE wouldn’t have a problem raising the funds to get TEDDY to CALIFORNIA………..do any of YOU speak FRENCH???THAT GORGEOUS SON in SACRAMENTO………does HE?!!!
  XX
- Kevin Crosby
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 9:24 PM
  
  Contessa E,
  Unfortunately I am quite allergic to pooches and other furry creatures – love ’em, but they do make me asthmatic. Still, we hope the best for Teddy – if that means turning him from un chien francais to a California dude dog, well – whatever works. Certainly Ellie deserves to know he is safe and happy somewhere. So while we can’t “do the whole deal” we can put out the word to our network in case he needs a caring home here in Northern Cal. We know you and others in the blogosphere will keep us posted on what’s happening; meanwhile we will let you know if anyone comes forward.
  Kevin (and Renee)
  - contessa
    · Reply
    
    April 17, 2016 at 6:46 AM
    
    THANK YOU!
    TERRIFIC………..MERCI!!!
    XX
Mrs B
· Reply

April 16, 2016 at 11:08 AM

So lovely what you you are all doing for the pooch.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 8:37 PM
  
  TRYING…………..MRS.B………why NOT YOU!???
  A DOG Is a GREAT COMPANION and INSTAGRAM MATERIAL…………….do give it a thought!
  BE WILD…………someone can put him on the plane and YOU be on the OTHER SIDE…………IT CAN BE DONE Through these BLOGGERS WORLD WIDE…………….I CAN MAKE THAT HAPPEN…WE can even do a GO FUND for his transport!!!!!!
  THINK ABOUT IT PLEASE!
  XO
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 11:58 PM
  
  I misspelled happening and who knows what that typo is at the end….rpo. A typo!
Jill Dale
· Reply

April 16, 2016 at 7:30 AM

Hello Contessa – I’m hanging on every word posted about dear Teddy. I’m sure all of Ellie’s readers are as well. So happy to see you are ‘working on it’ – I cannot bear to think of Teddy unhappy. Thinking about you and your friend Penelope in cargo with Teddy … Please keep us posted about progress.

You are a special person to help Ellie (and Teddy).
Jill in Ottawa, Canada
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 8:34 PM
  
  WORKING ON IT!!!
  I have a lead outside PARIS that MAY JUMP at the idea!!!!!!!!KEEP TEDDY in YOUR PRAYERS!!!!!!XO
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:46 PM
  
  La Contessa is speaking for herself about flying in cargo! I am NOT flying in cargo; and neither will Teddy! If something happens on the plane…the oxygen is sucked out of CARGO!!
  
  No. If we do not find a divinely happy and heavenly home in France for Teddy….we will bring him to the US! NOT in CARGO (I cannot copy La Contessa’s hilarious caps!!) But in a seat, a private plane, a NETJET……something. He will be in a happy home very soon. I am hoping that will set Ellie’s heart at ease. I know how she feels about this dog. To feel this helpless to save something that has meant so much to you…….it just cannot happen to Ellie! NOT HAPPENNING as long as there is breath in my BODY!! We will do SOMETHING AND QUICKLY!!!
  
  (this is fun!! these caps and no caps!!)
- Tracy Herrin
  · Reply
  
  April 18, 2016 at 8:38 AM
  
  Dear Penelope and Contessa,
  
  I SO agree with you that a forever home needs to be found for dear Teddy ASAP…..(i am doing the caps and no caps thing too!)…the thought of him sitting day after day in the shelter is gut wrenching….i can only imagine the pain poor ellie is suffering knowing he hasn’t been placed in a loving home….we must put her mind at ease and rescue him NOW, not leave him there for a month or two!….
  
  A home in France would be ideal, but according to posts here on this blog and on others there are wonderful people that are in the states that would take this dog RIGHT NOW….can you find out the cost of flying Teddy to the states?….private, net jet etc?….i know this is the question that these wonderful people need to have answered so they will commit to adopting him….if the details can be posted on how Teddy can be transported i just know he will be adopted ASAP!!!!
  
  Thank you for all you are doing for Ellie and Teddy.
  
  Tracy
  - contessa
    · Reply
    
    April 18, 2016 at 11:02 AM
    
    JUST CALL AIR FRANCE AND ASK………..its REALLY as simple as THAT.I can do that this afternoon!
    I have written to the ANIMAL COMPANY that was referred by JEANNE of COLLAGE OF LIFE and they have not responded yet.
    IT’s not that expensive if you are onboard with the animal……I WILL FIND OUT!
    I’m certain WE the TEAM ELLIE can raise the funds for TEDDY to be TRANSPORTED to the GOOD OLD USA!
    ANYONE Interested in TEDDY should contact HEATHER at LOST IN ARLES…….PLEASE!
    XOXO
Penelope Bianchi
· Reply

April 15, 2016 at 10:48 PM

Read the post Lost in Arles and I have offered to go to France with La Contessa if she will adopt Teddy and bring him back!
this tore Ellie’s heart out to leave this wonderful dog behind…..I cannot stand it. La Contessa just lost her boxer………
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 6:05 AM
  
  I DID…………….
  I am in the MIDST of the REMNANTS of the PAST SHOW can do nothing today!HAVE sent the BLOG POST LOST IN ARLES Off to the ITALIAN.LETS see what comes BACK AT ME!!!!
  WORKING ON IT……..but I dislike putting him on a plane for so long.However, if Penelope went with me I AM CERTAIN WE WOULD BE IN CARGO WITH TEDDY COMING TO THE U S A !!!!!!XOXOXO
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    April 16, 2016 at 6:13 PM
    
    You focus on the sale!!!
    
    XXOO
- Carol
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 9:24 AM
  
  Surely ONE of you needs a Comfort Dog to allay your fear of flying? I have seen ones bigger than Teddy in the passenger compartment. If not, maybe Yolanda Foster or Diandra Douglas could arrange for a private plane.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 8:33 PM
  
  WE HAVE NO FEAR of FLYING………….I think YOU have us confused with STEPHEN ANDREW JONES!WE would be HAPPY as CLAMS in the CARGO with TEDDY…………I just have to tell those of you reading NOW my CARDIGAN corgi was named TEDDY from the bREEDER………I changed his name to SIR WINSTON………….STRANGER things have happened!!!!!
  Told the ITALIAN about the situation…….as of yet he has not read LOST IN ARLES POST…………to be continued!!!
  XO
Tracy Herrin
· Reply

April 15, 2016 at 3:39 PM

Hi Contessa,
Could you please tell me the status of the Chanel bag?

Thank you,
Tracy
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 15, 2016 at 8:19 PM
  
  $500.00 was the last bid if you GO BACK UNDER the comments……..MAKE A BID HERE in the comment section………..
  THANK YOU!!!
That's Not My Age
· Reply

April 15, 2016 at 8:07 AM

This is such a wonderful gesture, how kind of you both to raise money for Ellie. And I agree about nobody picking up the phone anymore, what happened? We must make time for friends and family. Hope the sale goes well.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 15, 2016 at 9:06 AM
  
  I have RECEIVED TWO CALLS from MY POST!!!
  OFF I GO TO SELL SELL SELL………..and maybe BUY just a wee bit TOO!!!
couldashouldawoulda9
· Reply

April 15, 2016 at 8:05 AM

You really are very lovely La Contessa
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:38 PM
  
  Yes; she is astonishing….isn’t she???
  She had an aunt….who was so much like her. I adored her aunt….she lived in my favorite house in the world…..right here where I live in Montecito. I first saw it before her aunt bought it; 43 years ago or something…..then saw it often when her aunt owned it and shared it with so many tours and fundraising events…….it was the best house in the world…….or one of them. It was my personal favorite..because it was in my favorite place. Montecito! Her Aunt’s name was Katharine Abercrombie. She was a pistol; and a wonder! Elizabeth is so like her I cannot tell you!!!
Sheila
· Reply

April 14, 2016 at 11:28 PM

Hope you raise lots of money for Ellie. She is an amazing soul. Look forward to seeing you at the fair.

Sheila in SF
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 15, 2016 at 6:13 AM
  
  FANTASTIC!
  I know YOU will recognize ME but how will I know it’s YOU!!!!!!XX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

April 14, 2016 at 7:15 PM

You have such a large and giving heart. Everyone who knows you is so fortunate. Off I go to donate. Thanks for leading the way.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 14, 2016 at 8:19 PM
  
  THANK YOU!!!!!
  XO
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:34 PM
  
  Yes! You are so correct!!!
  Sandra……..you are the BEST!! And such fun!! As is your adorable husband!! Say hi!!!
Jennifer
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 9:28 PM

Send me some images pleaee. I think I”ll up the bid past $500.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 14, 2016 at 6:39 AM
  
  DONE!!!!!!!
  PLEASE DO!!!!!!!
  XOXO
Jennifer
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 9:19 PM

I am praying for Ellie! You are the most kind, loving friend anyone could ever have. I adore you Elizabeth
XOXOXOXO
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 14, 2016 at 6:39 AM
  
  YOU just made my DAY!
  XOXO
DaniBP
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 11:34 AM

Contessa this is so lovely of you and of Carol. I saw Ellie’s short post yesterday and today I’ve clicked on her blog a bunch of times already to check for the new post. Thinking of her and trying to send good energy. Not only is it a devastating illness it must be costing big major bucks. I won’t bid on the beautiful Chanel bag because I don’t need a handbag BUT I’m going to go donate right now. Bless you for being so kind and organizing this so beautifully. XOX
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 13, 2016 at 5:11 PM
  
  THANK YOU………….THANK YOU DANIBP!!!!
  From what I can make out since POSTING this BLOG POST about $500.00 has been DONATED on GO FUND…………….WE are making a DENT in HER GOAL.
  XO
Jacqueline
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 11:31 AM

What a wonderful thing to do and how kind to donate such beautiful things ….. I hope you raise a lot of money Elizabeth. XXXX
Dana
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 11:09 AM

Hi Contessa,
I follow both you and Ellie….anxiously waiting for her to post again…..please accept my bid of $500.00 for the purse. A good cause for any minor comforts we can give Ellie.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 13, 2016 at 1:13 PM
  
  THANK YOU DANA!!!!!!!!!!!!BRAVA……………
  I TOO AM WAITING for HER TO POST AGAIN!!I HOPE SHE HAS A LOT TO SAY and that is the HOLD UP!!!!!!
  WE SHALL SEE…………GOING THERE NOW to check!!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:30 PM
  
  Oh yay Dana!!
Andrea@WellnessNotes
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 8:49 AM

I’m not familiar with Ellie’s site, but I’ll go check it out! And I’ll definitely check out her cookbooks! I love reading cookbooks (lately using them is another story…), and I have a few friends who always treasure a new cookbook…

What a touching post. It showcases the best of the blogging world – people from all over the world coming together because of common passions and interests and developing deep, real friendships.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 13, 2016 at 5:08 PM
  
  SO TRUE……….WE are a wonderful GROUP of PEOPLE!CAN you imagine if WE all got together for a WEEKEND!!!!!!What a HOOT that would be!I adore MY blogging Friends………and it FEELS GOOD to help those in NEED!
  I have both of the cookbooks!
  WONDERFUL…….VERY AMERICAN!
  The recipes go back to ELLIE”S GRANDMOTHER……………ENJOY!
  XX
foodiefan
· Reply

April 13, 2016 at 3:49 AM

What a heart felt post -such a generous, thoughtful gift from Carol to Ellie and such a lovely supportive friend who has Lyme Disease ( awful thing to have ) organizing the donations and of course you, Contessa who has helped rally all those out there in blog land to hear Ellie’s battle with ALS ( such a hideous disease!). Our son’s girlfriend, Rosie is doing her final year of her PHD desperately working hard to find a cure for ALS. Hopefully one day no one will have to suffer like Ellie. xo
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 13, 2016 at 5:00 PM
  
  GO ROSIE!!!
  I had forgotten about that!!!Are they still in TASMANIA??
  XO
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:29 PM
  
  I hope your son marries that girl. What a wonderful goal for her to be working towards!
  
  We certainly need the next generation…..(I have 7 marvelous, smart, talented grandchildren) to save our earth, conquer diseases, and stop the destruction. Thank God for optimism…..and especially the ability of humans to adapt.
  My favorite psychologist was interviewed and asked what the “most important thing to stay mentall healthy is”! Her answer: “adaptation to change”. It seems to me there are three constants….(and probably many more) but mine are: birth, death, and change.
  
  I really like and agree with her answer.
Loree
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 12:12 PM

But I know you take the time to phone your friends because you phoned me last summer. I will see what I can do for Ellie. She is such an inspiration and a classy lady too. I hope she is doing much better. Life is so unfair but there are also some lovely people in the world.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 6:31 PM
  
  MAYBE BUY one of HER cookbooks LOREE!I love both but the THANKS GIVING One is a WINNER ALL THE WAY AROUND because you live outside the USA and it has some GOOD OLD~FASHIONED RECIPES from HERE!!!Just an idea…………….
  ARE you coming back this SUMMER?Yes, I do like to call and catch up or in our case introduce MYSELF!!!
  XX
mithra ballesteros
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 10:55 AM

I’m so sorry about your friend’s battle. My heart goes out to her family. At the same time, I’m gobbling up her posts. And have just ordered her books. She is the real deal, isn’t she?!
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 11:45 AM
  
  YES!
  SHE IS…………I LOVE HER COOKBOOKS!!!!BEST THANKS~ GIVING I EVER FIXED came out of her BOOKs.Two years now I have been cooking from it!XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 17, 2016 at 9:24 PM
  
  Indeed she is the REAL DEAL; I met her before she was sick here in Santa Barbara…..and a more delightful young woman I have never met! She is my daughter’s exact age…..(46) and they knew each other; but their children went to different schools….so not well.
  
  Ellie is one of my favorite humans I have ever met. We connected deeply upon meeting! Quite astounding. Same thing happened to me with La Contessa…..it is a rare and lovely thing!!!
Isla
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 7:05 AM

Yea, Loreen! Let’s keep the bidding going. I raise you to $250.00 for the bag!
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 7:18 AM
  
  THAT A GIRL…………..XX
Loreen
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 6:40 AM

So excited to hear about Ellie! I thrive on every word she says and find myself looking forward to her blog… I bid $225.00 for the purse…If I don’t win please let me know how I can make a donation…Thank you Contessa!!

Love and prayers for Ellie…Loreen
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 7:17 AM
  
  YOU can DONATE HERE on MY BLOG just click on the HERE TO DONATE WORD………….
  HER BEST FRIEND STARTED this account………CLICK to SEE who THAT friend is.She is ALMOST as FAMOUS as OUR GIRL Ellie………….and is fighting a different battle with LYME Disease.
  
  It is VERY EASY…………..I DID it MONTHS AGO.
  
  Every dollar HELPS.
  
  HERE TO DONATE
the gardeners cottage
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 6:29 AM

hi elizabeth. so fascinating and exciting that the dress came from redlands ca which is where i live. i wonder the name of the estate?! this town is so rich in history that’s why i love living here! i pray for ellie every day that she is comfortable and able to see beauty – because i know how important that is to her. her latest ig post is encouraging.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 7:19 AM
  
  IT IS ENCOURAGING and I’m up early and KEEP checking……………………NO BLOG POST YET from ELLie………….XX
- Carol
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 8:43 AM
  
  Hi Janet, I follow your blog and have often wondered if you live in Redlands. It is such a charming, historic little town. Really, the name does not do it justice. It should be something more romantic like “Roseland” or “Belvoir”. Haven’t been out there lately, but next time, I will try to find the old mansion where I bought the dress.
  
  I remember that the house was VERY Queen Anne in style, reddish brown with 3 foot wrought iron fence around it and huge trees. The house had to have been built in the 1880’s or 1890’s. It might have been three stories or perhaps two stories with a big attic. It was on one of the older main streets that rise up into the hills on the west side of town, probably less than 5 minutes from the historic shopping district. I did not find the house on this link, but for anyone who is interested in the beauty of Redlands, follow this: https://www.flickr.com/photos/rstrongphotography/sets/72157630028240049/
  
  Carol
contessa
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 5:07 AM

VIA EMAIL:

Thank you for what you’re doing for Ellie!
She really is a rare treasure. And I agree with our mutual treasure of a friend, Penny Bianchi that you are too!
I’m another fan of your posts (as well as Ellie’s of course) and admire your spunk and style!
(I had to tell you!)
Best,
Bob Schulenberg
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 7:21 AM
  
  SO,HAPPY YOU DID!!!!!!!!!!
  MISTER NEW YORK SOCIAL DIARY!!!
  Loved receiving YOUR email this morning!!
  XX
SAJ
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 5:03 AM

Such a lovely and generous gesture and gift from Carol! That bag is fabulous! You’re so right about slowing down and making time to simply be nice! Forgive this slightly self-congratulatory story but it’s really nothing extraordinary. A few weeks ago at the grocery store there was a woman in front of me being a total bitch to the cashier, talking down to her like she was so important. When our bitchy customer shuffled off back to her sad life the cashier said “so sorry for your wait” and I said “I’m in no rush, that woman was awful, how is your day going otherwise?” She teared up and gave me a hug! It takes so little to be nice and sometimes means so much. I think we’ve all had our bad days rescued by a little kindness. That said I never pick up the phone I hate it 🙂 I’m happy to write a letter or host a meal though! I end up power walking around my house like a mall walker when I’m on the phone.
Carol I’m sure it stung a little bit to let these fabulous pieces go, they are so beautiful! But how fabulous that they get to help someone and start a new life with someone who will be so excited to have them!
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 7:26 AM
  
  PEOPLE can be SO RUDE………….what YOU did was SO NICE!
  Thank YOU for your beautiful comment………and your PHONE CALL a few months AGO!
  I feel VERY HONORED.
  Looks like the bidding has started……..are YOU certain BARBIE does not need a CHANEL to rest HER chin on when she is curled up on the sofa?!!
  CAROL is a DEAR to DONATE and she was my FIRST CALL YESTERDAY morning as this went LIVE!
  XX
- Pamela
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 5:06 PM
  
  We have a law in Oz that telemarketers are not permitted to call if you’ve put your number on the Do Not Call Register. It does eliminate a lot of nuisance calls. But not pollsters or scammers (always from overseas – you can tell from the accents and the strange background sounds on the line) calling to tell you there is something wrong with your computer and they will fix it for you – if only you trustingly give them your passwords and other crucial details. Of course charities can call too.
  Well done you with raising money for Ellie’s care – and to the kind lady who donated her treasures. Glad to hear she’s improving and will post again soon. Best wishes, Pammie
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 5:35 PM
  
  WE have that TOO PAMMIE……………..but I don’t know what has happened.They still get through those telemarketers.YES,They seem to be calling from INDIA!
  DONOT GIVE OUT ANY INFO ANYONE EVER!!! SCAM……..for SURE!
  I do HOPE she is on the MEND……………and I do recognize a few people on the GO FUND site who have donated hopefully from seeing this POST!
  THANKS for writing!
  XX
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  April 15, 2016 at 10:23 PM
  
  I guess I am a total old bat! Guess what I do when I hear people being rude to cashiers, waiters, or waitresses or others in the “service businesses”? I stop them dead in their tracks……I say…..”What are you thinking of being so RUDE to him/her?” It is completely horrible and inexcusable. Please apologize right now!!!” Shuts them up fast. I think it might slow them down the next time. 75% of the time, believe it or not, they DO apologize! Astonishing, isn’t it! I can just imagine what they say about me!! Who cares!!??!!!
stephie
· Reply

April 12, 2016 at 3:31 AM

elizabeth – how generous and kind of you (and carol, too) to do this for ellie! what a good friend you are!
isn’t it amazing what feelings ellie generates in all of her fans! we’re all hoping she stays alive (for a very long time), and yet for her it must be so very, very hard to do so!
whenever you feel like skyping again, give me a call 🙂 xxx
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 12, 2016 at 7:29 AM
  
  WE MUST TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER……………..and do what we can.
  I will call YOU maybe later today!I have a busy few days a head of me with the show and all……..but there is ALWAYS time for a SKYPE with DUSSELDORF, GERMANY!XX
Mrs Rose
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 8:50 PM

You and Carol set a lovely example of how we can be there for others.
And YES, no one picks up the phone except for those annoying telemarketers who even though you promise them you are not going to remodel they insist on calling you back time and time again:)
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 9:19 PM
  
  BINGO!
  I cut them off with THE HUSBAND is a CONTRACTOR!!!!!!!DONE………thank YOU!
  XX
anita@letshavelunch
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 8:36 PM

Best of Luck with this Elizabeth.
There will be someone who just wants that bag and equally that Edwardian dress.
You’re a good girl.
Neat xx
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 9:18 PM
  
  THANKS NEAT…………HOPING for SUCCESS!!!
  XX
Anita Rivera
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 7:46 PM

Dearest Contessa, I think I need to reread this to understand what is happening, and I need to go read her blog! I have never encountered her talents before, but thank you for sharing. Those amazing vintage items, WOW! I had a great photo shoot yesterday with a friend and her friend who graciously allowed us into her home filled with the most outrageous antiques. I thought of you. Yes, there are some great people in the world. LIKE YOU! Anita
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 8:33 PM
  
  ELLIE is from CALIFORNIA…….she use to have a SHOP in the SANTA BARBARA area.She married a FRENCHMAN and after the marriage she found out she had ALS.HER SHOP would have been YOUR cup of TEA!LOADS of FRENCH STUFF……….she has a wonderful following on her BLOG.She is VERY HONEST and OPINIONATED.AS she says she has nothing to LOSE………..she also runs a shop on her BLOG which YOU ANITA would enjoy!!!She would shop the flea markets and then sell the wares HERE…………she moved to Provence for awhile acquired two dogs an an abandon kitten.CARE GIVERS quite on HER and the mailman couldNOT find her house to deliver the MEDS!!!!!!!!SHE was carted out by the window and raced back to PARIS.WE NOW ALL WAIT FOR HER NEWS TOMORROW!AS she hash tagged today #STILLALIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!GO READ HER BLOG YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.
  XX
Suzy
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 7:43 PM

I was relieved to hear that Ellie is #StillAlive as she posted on Instagram! If one wanted to bid – where would one do that? Thanks!
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 8:24 PM
  
  RIGHT HERE In the comment section……………WE shall keep it going for about a week!HIGHEST BIDDER will get the GOODS, so check back………….If the bids do not come in I will take to the SHOW on FRIDAY and SATURDAY and see what happens there.I WILL PAY FOR SHIPPING!SO< that is taken CARE of..............PLEASE START THE FUN as we have $200.00 already......WILL YOU GO HIGHER??
Faux Fuchsia
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 4:57 PM

That is very kind of the lady to do this. When I saw that Ellie had another post I was so scared to click onto it in case it was more bad news. She touches many lives. x
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 5:11 PM
  
  SHE DOES…………..BUT there is a PHOTO On INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK……..SHE IS SITTING UP looking out over the PALAIS ROYAL!!!!!!!
  HOW WONDERFUL IS THAT!!!
  XX
Isla
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 4:12 PM

Let’s get this thing started. I bid $200.00 on the vintage bag. Come on girl friends. Let’s get a friendly competition goin for Ellie.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:32 PM
  
  THANK YOU!!!
  XX
French Basketeer
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 2:42 PM

Oh my Goodness how touching!! And how sweet and thoughtful of Carol to give these items to you for Ellie…I have loved her blog and can only imagine the courage it takes to get through each day. I’ll call you before I get out of town. Much love~
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:45 PM
  
  Perhaps YOU could deliver HUGS and AMERICAN CHIPS to ELLIE??
  SHE does LIKE RANCH DRESSING!!!!!!!!!
  XX
Heather in Arles
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 2:21 PM

This is a heart-felt gesture on your and Carol’s part. I hope both items sell fast! They are both so lovely…just like beautiful Ellie. 🙂
xo
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:44 PM
  
  BEAUTIFUL YOU…………….the GESTURE came from CAROL…………..
  I just wrote it up and opened it up to MORE people!
  XO
Julie Russell
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 2:05 PM

How wonderful! I saw Ellie’s Instagram and brief blog post today – can’t wait for the longer post she teased for tomorrow.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:43 PM
  
  WE will ALL BE GLUED to the computer MONITOR that’s FOR CERTAIN!
  TO think YOU and I met because of Ellie’s BIRTHDAY CARD!!!!!!!!
  XX
kim
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 1:22 PM

Contessa, You are such a wonderful and supportive friend to do this. Lovely of Carol to donate these pretty pieces! Wishing the best to Ellie. Just adore her and her blog. Wishing she gets better and the money she needs. Have you had any offers on the bag? I might buy it or donate to her fund. xo Kim
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 1:45 PM
  
  AS of NOW NO OFFERS KIM!YOU are the FIRST………………I can send MORE photos of the bag to YOU if you wish to see them………..just give me a text, email or phone call!I will be in and out all DAY!
  XX
Karena
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 11:09 AM

Dear Elizabeth, love to you and Carol for doing this to help Ellie.
She has been so strong in fighting this horrible disease. Hugs and prayers abound!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:41 PM
  
  SHE HAS BEEN TREMENDOUS…………..lets give HER a STANDING OVATION!
  XX
Katie Clooney
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 10:30 AM

My dear Contessa… I had no idea that you met the INFAMOUS ELLIE!!!! I am a HUGE FAN of hers. It is so WONDERFUL that you and CAROL are doing this. I keep ELLIE in my PRAYERS!!
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:40 PM
  
  THANK YOU AS IT IS WORKING!!!!!!!!
  XX
Mrs B
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 10:10 AM

How very lovely, the dress is so special. Best wishes to Ellie.
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:39 PM
  
  Comes from YOUR NECK of THE WOODS TOO!
  I do BELIEVE……….XX
RebeccaNYC
· Reply

April 11, 2016 at 9:49 AM

How wonderful of you to do this and thanks for the link! I had no idea Ellie was in finacial distress. She should not be worried about money at this time! xoxo
- contessa
  · Reply
  
  April 11, 2016 at 4:38 PM
  
  It costs A LOT to keep her going……….just think if WE all gave up A STARBUCK’S for two days and donated that little amount WE would raise over $10,000.00.How much is a STARBUCK’S anyway……….$4.00 NOW with milk,NON~FAT,CARMEL STUFF…….etc.
  Think How GOOD our BODIES would feel with the BREAK!
  Think HOW GOOD WE would feel if WE generated that amount!!!
  She entertain’s US FOR FREE…………….lets HELP if WE CAN!
  XX
- Gloria
  · Reply
  
  April 16, 2016 at 3:58 PM
  
  I’m confused….I thought Ellie is quite wealthy, or you might think so, reading her blog. Also France has medical programs and benefits that are superior. Anyone can see that she lives in a affluent world despite her unfortunate medical circumstances.
  - contessa
    · Reply
    
    April 16, 2016 at 9:05 PM
    
    MY DEAR!
    How long have YOU been READING HAVE SOME DECORUM?
    May I suggest YOU go back from the start…………YES, she came from a family with MONEY it would appear………..but married for LOVE…………I can see YOU have NEVER delt with a serious illness.COSTS are EXORBITANT.INSURANCE covers a mere fraction…………….WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD…….HAVE you ever considered what CAREGIVERS COST even at a GOOD PRICE?They are needed to put her on the TOLIET and dress her and feed HER while the FRENCH HUSBAND Goes to the office to make MONEY to PAY for THEM!!!!!!PLUS the Breathing Machine……..the other necessities of LIFE that ALLOW This ELLIE To continue to be with US……………SHE has written about ALL HER NEEDS.Might I suggest YOU GO READ HER BLOG from COVER TO COVER then YOU might understand and NOT be SO CONFUSED anymore!!!
    SHE IS NOT TYPING HER BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!
    SHE CANNOT MOVE HER HANDS…………
    SHE CANNOT PUT A FORK TO HER MOUTH………
    GET UN~ CONFUSED NOW…………….IN HER condition to BE ALIVE IS COSTLY. WEALTHY OR NOT……..and I would say she is MIDDLE CLASS at the MOMENT!
    I would LIKE TO SEE YOUR NAME ON THE GO FUND ACCOUNT TOMORROW!!!!!!!
    MONEY Or NOT SHE NEEDS OUR HELP………………..will YOU MS. GLORIA rise to the occasion?
    XX