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GARDEN NEWS!

April 25, 2025 79 Comments

I RECEIVED THIS AWARD RECENTLY…………!

They want me to SPREAD the WORD!

Even though I am NUMBER 42 out of 80 WOMEN who received it; I feel honored as I barely get One Post out a MONTH these days…..

I have found making friends after your kids leave school and or you STOP working is HARD!I think thats why we gravitate towards BLOGS so much and now PODCASTS.I have not committed myself to that YET!It’s a way of feeling INVOLVED and sharing YOUR OPINION with others.

Bottom line you can see what other people are into and wearing and get some good OLD INFORMATION ON ALL KINDS OF STUFF!

HERE IS THE LINK FOR BLOGS WRITTEN BY GIRLS/WOMEN OVER 50!

Just in case you NEED SOME NEW FRIENDS https://bloggers.feedspot.com/women_over_50_blogs/

My first BLOOMING rose EVERY YEAR!

She is called BANKSIA and she comes in white and yellow!

This is the second terrace which will CHANGE DRASTICALLY in the next couple of months.

I thought I would share the BEFORE and AFTER once it HAPPENS!

That Italian planted FRUIT TREES a couple of years ago and this year we will have a CROP!

Unless those BIRDS and SQUIRRELS get to it FIRST!

These Santa Barbara daisies did not get cut back this year!

They were MISSED!

You may not realize this but I have-not been able to Prune my garden for the last FIVE YEARS!

I miss that SO VERY MUCH.

It will be interesting to SEE how they do without a HAIRCUT!

MY SIDE GARDEN BANKSIA YELLOW ROSE!

MY LOVELY NEIGHBORS GET THE BOUNTY MORE THAN I DO NOW as it reaches for the SUN towards them!

This was one of the first ROSES I planted here.I can recall buying them at HOME DEPOT!

Carrying them to check out and lugging them to my station wagon!

It was all a BREEZE and I was so HAPPY about the new purchase!

ABOUT 29 years ago…………

OPPS……….MY FAVORITE ROSE!

THIS IS OUR MORNING LOOK!

MY SON got her HOOKED on CROISSANTS from an early age!

I am getting her HOOKED on VINTAGE LINEN!

BANKSIA BLOOMS in the backyard on Easter Sunday……..

Who can spy an EGG!!

THAT BUNNY STILL COMES TO MY GARDEN!

I LOVED those days of EGG HUNTS!

WE did an EGG hunt for our neighbors this year.

SHARING and offering HELP is a good way to be.

I have many of these like five or six.A soft pale pink rose that likes shade!

I found out recently it was brought from England.

However, I do not know the name!

MOCK ORANGE doing its FRAGRANT FLOWER FLIRT!

ANOTHER SHADE LOVING PLANT!

LAVENDER with YELLOW WALL FLOWERS IN THE BACKGROUND.

If the lavender leaves turn YELLOW like what they are doing here that means too much water.

Our water just got turned on a week ago this was from all the rain we have had………which is a GOOD THING!More rain today here in Northern California.I NEED SUN!

FIG TREE STARTING TO PRODUCE!

ROSE IS BOLERO……..and I have talked about it for YEARS!

MY FAVORITE as far as petals and FRAGRANCE.

CAN YOU STAND ONE MORE LOOK?

Have any of you purchased a BOLERO after I have talked about them for so long?

Note the petals MATCH MY SKIN!

A GARDEN URN that has welcomed LEMON BALM to its dirt!

Do I let it stay or pull it OUT?

HINT.I ADORE LEMON BALM!

ONE OF THE SIX GIRLS WE OWN NOW…………

THAT BLACK PLASTIC POT has to go!

It holds a DAHLIA from last year.

I cannot make up my mind where it should be placed!

I am not one to take so long in decision making!

What is wrong with me?

Maybe don’t answer that the list is LONG!

This area needs a bit of work!I collected old watering cans and similar vessels.

My ITALIAN loves to turn them upside down so the rain water does not collect in them.

That’s good as it reduces the bites one gets from mosquitos, but he never sets them back up right!

MY ART looks like a JUNK PILE!

Those large wine bottles I got out of the TRASH once upon a time when we lived in ITALY.

THAT WAS AWESOME DUMPSTER DIVING AS I CALLED IT BACK THEN!

BABY CHERRIES ARRIVING FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER IN OUR GARDEN!

This reminds me of when we had pet wild bunnies in our yard!

Do any of you remember that?

DOT THE DIGGER and CARMEL just to name TWO of those BUNNIES!

They gave birth in our front and backyards.

MANY TIMES.

WHAT A JOY THEY WERE…………….

ONE OF MY VERY FAVORITE FRAGRANCES since childhood!

PINK JASMINE LOOK UP!

I will take another SNAP when it is in FULL BLOOM!

I hope all is well in your world!I just received some bloodwork test results that put me into a PANIC MODE!

In February I was 100.

As of APRIL I am at 286.

Normal is below 100.

I will wait for the rest of the tests to come in then make a phone call.

I am really not ready for all of this and it SCARES me to DEATH.

HOWEVER, this has LIFTED MY SPIRITS!

A NEW BOOK by FIFI O’ NEILL called FRENCH FLAIR.

RELEASE DATE its MAY 13th 2025.

PENELOPE BIANCHI’s HOME is in this book!I did a post on her selling her house a few months back.

Well, guess what?

THEY ARENOT SELLING!!!!!!!!

Head to your nearest BOOK SHOP as we need to support these small shops, otherwise there will be NO PLACE TO ESCAPE TOO to feed our souls and brain.

YOU CAN FIND ON AMAZON as well.

I don’t know about YOU, but I still need to shop the little shops and get OUT OF THE HOUSE from time to time.Walk see a few people, smile ,say HELLO……….remember how we did all of that in a day and cooked DINNER TOO?!!

BE WELL DEAR READERS…………..XXX

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  • Martha Foss
    · Reply

    May 1, 2025 at 3:30 PM

    I love your little granddaughter. She is such a cutie and your garden is beautiful one day. I will see it in person. I promise we will get together. We head off to Africa tonight so for 22 days, I will be incommunicado.!!! best of luck on all those tests aren’t they the worst?

  • Hilda Smith
    · Reply

    April 30, 2025 at 7:42 AM

    I love everything about your garden the flowers, the urns, the rabbits, the watering cans….. And those wine bottles are HUGE!
    Much love. How beautiful is your granddaughter!

  • Doreen Lasenby
    · Reply

    April 28, 2025 at 8:10 PM

    I just love love love your garden! I’m not into formal conservative gardens. And that’s my green ! I wish you good news from the docs and a plan to proceed ahead on this journey of yours. ???

    Doreen
    Canada calling…..

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 29, 2025 at 9:27 AM

      MY JOURNEY cannot get BETTER DOREEN. All they can TRY TO DO is make me more comfortable.I try not to think about it and feel VERY SORRY for MY ITALIAN.
      On top of all this HEALTH STUFF, signing up for MEDICARE someone( NOT US) hit the wrong BUTTON and I have NO INSURANCE at the moment!!!!!!!!!
      ISN’T THAT FUNNY!
      Let’s see how long that takes to get corrected!
      LOVE TO CANADA and a BIG HUG to YOU!
      THANKS FOR YOUR COMMENT!
      XXX

      • Doreen Lasenby
        · Reply

        April 29, 2025 at 8:12 PM

        No Insurance! This is terrible!
        Good news will come your way. You have a strong following….we’ll get you through. It’s okay to lean on us. ????
        Doreen

        • LA CONTESSA
          · Reply

          Author
          April 30, 2025 at 6:30 AM

          Ohhh thank You!!
          It’s suppose to be fixed by Tomorrow!May Day!My favorite Day of the year!!
          Xxx

  • Rosemarie
    · Reply

    April 28, 2025 at 10:09 AM

    CONGRATS ON THE AWARD – THO WE ALL KNOW YOU ARE NUMBER 1.
    GARDEN IS LOOKING FAB. WHAT FUN TO HAVE THE Easter egg HUNT.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 29, 2025 at 9:21 AM

      SO, I did the announcement and all they requested………do you think they put this BLOG POST UP?!!
      NO!!
      Sometimes I just yell at my computer as I find it ALL SO PATHETIC!
      Remember the magazine time when thats ALL WE HAD to see what others were up too?IT was a SIMPLER time and I think over all much more RELAXING!
      XXX

  • Ellie's friend
    · Reply

    April 28, 2025 at 5:15 AM

    Hi Elizabeth,

    Discussing politics is not lady-like? Really!!! Do we still retire after dinner so men alone can discuss politics?? I’m glad you discuss politics.

    I read this blog twice — first I was captivated by Lottie’s beauty — then I was captured by her expression — a certain je ne sais quoi. You are so blessed!

    I greatly enjoyed reading about your garden. I laughed at your comments about the wild bunnies. Two days ago I was sitting in the yard when two cottontail rabbits were “frolicking” in the yard — then a Jackrabbit went running down the middle of the street. Then a friend emailed me about all the “rabbits” in her front yard — we have a tremendous population explosion. The bobcats, great horned owls, hawks and even eagles will be happy! i have sent you one photo….

    I read with interest your reader’s comment about Meidiland roses — I have been thinking of getting a white one — one that’s very short. My beloved roses have died off.

    Thank you so much for writig your blog — I enjoy it so much and think of your often (sending you healing thoughts).

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 29, 2025 at 9:17 AM

      THANK YOU for your kind words about our GRANDDAUGHTER and my BUNNIES!
      The Midland roses are GREAT LANDSCAPE roses.NO SMELL but PROLIFIC!I used in a stone wall area in the terraces in my backyard.They have preformed for years and have brought be great happiness.GO GET ONE!
      THANK YOU ELLIE’s friend!I think about her often too!
      THOSE WERE THE GREAT YEARS OF BLOGGING before advertising and all this INFLUENCER STUFF!
      CAN you imagine her mouth memos regarding what is happening in OUR WORLD TODAY!??She would be on FIRE!
      XXX

  • Jill James
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 9:50 PM

    I am not at all surprised you made the list of bloggers , well done . I agree with you on the connections we crave as circumstances in our lives change.
    Your garden is looking rather lovely in its Spring glory . I have the same yellow banksia rose about the same size . I do love the Bolero rose after seeing yours but have been unable to source it here , maybe it has a different name.
    Lemon Balm is lovely but I would keep it in the pot as I know from my garden it can become a pest.
    I do hope you get some answers re your health , take care. xxx

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 29, 2025 at 7:15 AM

      Jill your garden makes mine look like peanuts!You have created a WONDERLAND in Tasmania!
      Keep on looking it will pop up!!
      Xxx

  • Enid Sperber
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 5:01 PM

    Thank you for the opportunity of strolling your glorious garden. Wow but I had to stop and just stare at the face of that little angel. Her image is huge on my computer screen. Breathtaking. Despite your scary health issues, you are so lucky to have such a beautiful grandchild to love and have fun have fun with. Take care, Elisabeth. I love being one of your friends online.

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 29, 2025 at 7:12 AM

      Enid!!
      The pleasure is all mine!The thrill I had when you revealed who your Mother was and the part she played on TV growing up in the 1960’s was BEYOND EXCITING FOR ME!!
      I hope to get to LA this year so we can meet in person!
      Xxx

  • Judy Truex Reed
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 1:30 PM

    Anxious to hear about your bloodwork.

    My heart sings every time I receive your email. It is always so beautifully full of color and flowers, insightful, fun and inspiring. Too many other wonderful things. We must get you well. You are such a treasure.

    Hugs,
    Judy

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 29, 2025 at 7:09 AM

      Judy!
      Happy to hear I make your HEART SING!I will keep snapping away with YOU in mind!
      Thank You so much!!
      Big HUG
      XXX

  • Parnassus
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 10:57 AM

    Hello Contessa, The nerve of those ladies for ranking you only 42nd! An obvious case of favoritism and ballot-stuffing.

    Your garden is looking gorgeous. I love the look of the second terrace as-is, with its greenery and fruit trees. I hope that it isn’t going to change too much.

    –Jim

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:16 PM

      No change in plants Jim sorry if I mis-lead you!I meant once the Jasmine and rose’s bloom it will become more of a Wonderland or as The Italian says a Jungle!
      Xxx

  • Barbara H
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 10:21 AM

    LET THE LEMON BALM STAY!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:14 PM

      It will!
      Thanks Barbara and for your email too!
      Xxx

  • Fifi
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 9:35 AM

    Congratulations on the award!! You completely deserve the accolade!! The garden is beautiful and the kids and pets so charming! And thank you for the shoot out of my book!!???XOXOXOXO

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:13 PM

      Anytime Fifi!
      Enjoying your new book FRENCH FLAIR VERY MUCH!Anything you do is a beautiful visual.
      XOXO

  • Pierrette Weir
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 8:00 AM

    What a wonderful post. No wonder you received that award. You are no.1 in my eyes. So much beauty. The glorious garden, the beautiful granddaughter, the sweet neighbours. Wish you were my neighbour with those roses overflowing into my yard.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:11 PM

      Thank You!!!!
      That would be WONDERFUL!
      Xxx

  • Judy Smith
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 7:41 AM

    Congratulations! Your garden is spectacular, and your granddaughter is simply divine! Thank you for sharing with us.
    Warmly,
    Judy Smith

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:09 PM

      Hello JUDY,
      Thank You as you know these grandchildren are the apple of our eyes!
      Thank You!
      Xxx

  • Sunday Hendrickson
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 3:24 AM

    As usual, I am in awe, Bella Contessa!
    Grazie!

  • Sunday Hendrickson
    · Reply

    April 27, 2025 at 3:24 AM

    As usual, I am in awe, Bella Contessa!
    Grazie!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:07 PM

      Well GOOD AS I LIVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
      Xxx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:07 PM

      Love to hear from you not Live!
      Xxx

  • Katherine
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 9:12 PM

    Elizabeth, i so enjoyed the tour of some of your garden. You have gorgeous roses. In the past did you ever buy bare root roses? My husband is a Master Gardener and the bare root roses are the only ones he will buy.
    I’m sorry to read that you have a substantial spike on one of your lab readings. When it’s way out of range it could be a number of things. I hope it will be explained to you soon.
    Your granddaughter is hooked on a good thing. I love a good croissart too.
    Take TLC of yourself.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 3:06 PM

      Yes I did buy barefoot roses way back in the day when we started this garden.A few of them need to be replaced now.I also need to replace some jasmine in the walls!A big job!
      Not looking forward to that!
      Spike in blood test from heart working overtime!Not great news but hopefully it will go down.
      Xxx

  • Stephanie D
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 6:45 PM

    I just cannot say enough complimentary things about your garden. Your tender loving care over the years has resulted in a gorgeous legacy…all a result of your dedication AND your keen eye.
    And where do I start w Lottie? She is your adorable mini me, croissants and all.
    Continuing to keep you in my thoughts and well wishes as you figure out WTF is going on…you’ve got lots of memories still to be made. Hang in there my friend…
    xx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 2:57 PM

      I hope so!!
      I need to meet up with YOU for a memory!!Nice catching up the other day by phone.Time is racing by and I’m not DONE YET!
      WTF is RIGHT!!
      Thanks for the info you sent too!
      Xxx

  • Jeanie
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 5:46 PM

    Congratulations, Contessa. And many thanks to you for all the joy I’ve received from reading your blogs and posts over the years. I feel like we’ve had a lovely visit each time.
    Many of your pleasures are mine, too. Gardening and grandchildren and antiques and day to day happenings make up so many of my days.
    It’s a good life in so many ways and you add a sprinkle of sugar to all.
    Thank you!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 2:53 PM

      Jeanie,
      Thank you for telling me this!
      You made my day!It’s fun to share daily things with others.And I try to toss in my humor as well!
      Xxx

  • Pipistrello
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 3:41 PM

    Bella Contessa,

    Congratulations on your blog’s recognition! You have put so much love into it and it shows. Ditto your lovely garden and even without your attentive pruning of late, it is a glory to see. I am curious to see the outcome of your terrace plans – the Italian must be brimming with project ideas these days! And the lemon balm popping up in the urn looks perfect where it is, like a memorial to Banksy 🙂

    A special mention, of course, to your adorable peach of a granddaughter. Can I say I am envious of her fresh and carefree morning look? If only They could bottle it!!

    Fingers crossed your test results come to nought …

    Baci xx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 2:35 PM

      Love that would NOUGHT!
      Well,to calm me down they said they expected those numbers to go up!
      But come on it went up a bit too much!Whatever I just need to go with the FLOW for now.I certainly donot want to be running the show and be the patient too!
      I have let the neighbors borrow him for their repairs and projects for the moment!
      He is staying very busy!
      Xxx

  • Christy
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 2:11 PM

    Your beautiful gardens plus your adorable granddaughter enjoying a taste treat was so enjoyed and appreciated. It made my day so thank you so much. Fingers are crossed for better blood work soon! I also am having abnormal bloodwork so can understand how scary and frustrating this is. Stay strong and hopefully this will turn around soon for both of us. Thanks again for the beautiful garden photos and of your very pretty chicken, wish he was in my yard to enjoy!!

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 1:21 PM

      Christy go get a chicken. They’re the easiest animal to take care of and they give you so much enjoyment! I am sorry to hear your blood work is not grand either. It’s a horrible feeling when that happens cause it’s like we have no control. I guess we do with what we eat and how we exercise but gosh it’s alarming!
      Let me know how you’re doing with the next round of bloodwork keep in touch. My email is on the homepage of the blog.Or iolacontessa@gmail.com
      Xxx

  • 1010ParkPlace
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 1:59 PM

    I love that you’re on Feedspot’s list! Congratulations! And your garden is glorious and it shows the love you’ve put into it all these years. I was inspired to do the same when I first moved here. Little did I know the soil was terrible. Solid clay and too much shade, so nothing grows, plus it’s also Annie’s racetrack, so she killed everything I tried to do. Now the neighbor’s cat sleeps on top of the plants in my big pots, so they’re not looking too good either. Maybe when the memoir is behind me, I’ll take another crack at it. You always inspire me! xoxox, Brenda

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 1:18 PM

      Brenda I can vividly recall one of the first blog posts I read of yours about a fountain!Do you still have it? I remember I thought you lived in New York at the time! Don’t ask me why I thought that I don’t remember!! well it’s time for Maya Blue to make an appearance and I can’t wait to get my copy and read it so I can do a review for you on the blog and tell everyone to go out and buy it. I’ve heard your stories over the years and can’t believe what you’ve lived through!Hats off to you for putting it all down on paper. Congratulations and I wish you the best success with the book launch.
      Xxx

  • Deanna
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 1:19 PM

    Congratulations on your blog award! Well deserved!! I enjoy seeing your lovely garden photos, pets and your darling granddaughter. Everything actually. I do adore vintage linens, and find it so touching that your granddaughter is getting to enjoy yours. So much more pleasing than a paper towel as napkin. Love the green wine bottles that you imported from Italy. They add a perfect touch to your collections area. So sorry that your health numbers are causing concerns. Praying that somehow you get the answers and best help in getting everything you need.

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 1:13 PM

      Thanks Deanna!
      I hope what I share is enjoyable!
      This blog all started to sell my shop items at the HEN HOUSE years ago.
      After I closed that due to a building which was unsafe I wasn’t sure I could keep it going!!
      Thank you for your lovely comment!
      Xxx

  • PPPno
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 11:58 AM

    Ma Chere Contessa,
    Ah, what a spectacular garden you have!
    Definitely food for the soul. I applaud your energy to get out and share these photos.
    I worry that your blood work indicates continuing problems.. hope it isn’t so.
    I do enjoy these pics of lovely blooms and colors galore.
    Your granddaughter is so cute!!!
    Thanks for the Spring garden tour!

    PPPno

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 1:09 PM

      What great news you gifted to me the other day in my email!Andrew is on the mend.I do think of his Mother often!She was a SUCH A GOOD PERSON!As were you to give those BIRTHDAY LUNCHEONS all those years!
      Xxx

  • Anita Day
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 11:50 AM

    The garden is looking superb sweetheart. What joy it must be bringing you. Vita would be impressed. Congratulations on your award Elizabeth. You’ve done a great job keeping this going all these years. Enjoy the moment.
    Neat xx

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 1:05 PM

      Thank You for hanging in here with me all these years!Im going to try calling you later today!!
      Xxx

  • lisa thomson
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 10:56 AM

    Your garden looks gorgeous, LA CONTESSA. As do you, especially in your tangerine kaftan on Easter Sunday. I’m sorry to hear about your blood test! I hope the issue is resolved very soon. Your granddaughter is such a cutie. I see you in her in every single picture. Enjoy a cup of tea in your garden for me. That French country book looks lovely. I will inquire with my local bookstore. I also enjoy going into the stores and getting out from behind my desk!

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 1:03 PM

      We NEED places to wander about in.Its good for our well being and its good for the shop keeper!Lisa are you working on another book?What is your country voting on TODAY?
      I’m sitting outside freezing in a wool coat!Just have to get out of the CASA once in awhile!
      Xxx

      • lisa thomson
        · Reply

        May 1, 2025 at 9:43 AM

        Indeed. Wandering among nature is the best tonic.
        I am not currently writing another book although I have two completed manuscripts that I am considering for publication. We have a Liberal government continuing in office but it is a minority which is fine. I think better than before. Mark Carney, our new Prime Minister holds promise. He is financially responsible –navigated UK Bank through Brexit. I am hopeful.
        xxx

  • Linda Henderson
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 10:44 AM

    So happy to see The Vintage Contessa in my inbox. Beautiful photos and interesting commentary. Hoping for the best with your health.

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 12:54 PM

      IAM still here!
      For how long I don’t know.
      I will tell you when I decide to call it a day!PROMISE!
      Xxx

  • Amanda Riley
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 9:53 AM

    Congratulations on the blog award, love reading your posts.
    Have massive envy over your garden and roses….and figs developing already.
    Good thing to introduce granddaughter to croissants.! Mine, when her age were living.in Belgium. As a result they adore croissants, cheese, hagelslag( chocolate sprinkles best on bread) and moules et frites!
    Hopefully blood results are just a blip, very often are.
    Looking forward to seeing what fruit you get this year! Xxx

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 12:51 PM

      Blood test were BNP I think!!
      Don’t ask me what that stands for!
      No fluke.
      But they were not alarmed as they are playing with the meds and supposedly expected this to happen.
      I’m tired of being SICK.
      You have been a TREMENDOUS RESOURCE AND VALUED TEADER FOR ME OVER THE YEARS!I thank you for that!!!
      Xxx

  • Judith
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 9:53 AM

    Congratulations on your award! You put a lot of work into this blog, share important information, and show us gorgeous photos; this is a well-deserved honor.

    The little princess just gets prettier each time she shows up here. I’m so glad she gets to spend time with the two of you. Some of my happiest memories from childhood are of my Granny.

    Keep on truckin’ with the health stuff. Hopefully that crazy number was an anomoly and has come back down. Staying focused on what matters to you seems to be your tonic.

    The gardens are stunning. I have never seen a Lady Banks rose get so large. I have a white one that is just now coming into bloom – so exciting! This is the third one I have gotten, after losing the first two, so I’m hoping number three is the charm. My White Meideland roses are just starting to bloom as well. I would not have these if you hadn’t given me the idea! I always enjoy your blog, but these garden posts are my absolute favorite.

    Take good care and try to stay well, Contessa.

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 12:46 PM

      The Banksia are close to 30 years old!Yours too will get GRANDE!
      You are a MASTER GARDENER you don’t need me!My Meidiland roses are not blooming yet!Think I have lost a few due to gophers,etc.
      Thanks for sticking with me ALL THESE YEARS!
      Xxx

  • D. A. Squires
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 9:27 AM

    You are the ROSE QUEEN. The Balero is the most beautiful real rose (but pales in comparison to the rose eating a croissant : ) Love all the garden photos… everything is coming to life again. Spring is a spellbinding season. Swooning over UK gardens on instagram… many look like paintings. Very worried about you and that number. Why do they inform patients of results before a meeting with DR?? Just skyrockets anxiety. Hold on to all the beauty and love that surrounds you… flowers, family, pets… they are the best Rx of all.

    Congratulations on your well deserved award.. but the judges had a lapse in judgement… you are #1.
    XOXO

    • La Contessa
      · Reply

      Author
      April 28, 2025 at 12:40 PM

      You are ALWAYS so kind D.A.!
      I agree with you about my croissant eating rose!
      Yes,those days are GONE where the doctor would inform us FIRST!
      I miss the way it use to be!
      I’m hanging in there!
      Xox

  • Bonnie Schulte
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 8:54 AM

    Wow, what a photo filled post!!! Your gardens are amazing, just beautiful!! Love it all, but nothing can compare of the beauty of your granddaughter enjoying a croissant. What a beautiful, adorable little girl.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:57 PM

      I AGREE and the PERSONALITY matches!!!
      XXX

  • Ms. Mary
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 8:39 AM

    Your garden is looking so FINE. Enjoy the rain while you can.
    Sending healing thoughts and warm hugs. Stay focused.
    I’m off to St. Louis today to be with ALL the girls. I’ll text you a picture, (no photos are allowed on Social Media). 😉

    Love to G. <3 <3 <3

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:56 PM

      I see her lurking around but never a post!
      SAY HELLO from ME and do send me some PHOTOS!!!!
      I would LOVE THAT!
      XXX

  • Penny
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 8:21 AM

    Sending congratulations on this fabulous honor. I enjoyed my stroll through your lovely garden, this morning.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:55 PM

      THANK YOU PENNY……..MORE TO COME later next month!
      XXX

  • Kimberly
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 8:13 AM

    KEEP the lemon balm! Cut fresh leaves and place in French press fill with freshly boiled water and drink. Tisane. Tastes fresh & lovely and loaded with well being benefits. Also delicious in lemon tea cake! Keep your magic going & do not fear your blood work ##’s keep creating/visualizing exactly how you wish your life to be – you’re an expert at this!?

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:54 PM

      I LOVE THIS KIMBERLY thank YOU!I do have a FRENCH PRESS will try later today!
      I shall keep visualizing but I live with a man who ALWAYS says NO first then comes through MOST of the TIME!Remind me to tell you about the IRON GATES that sit here by my desk that will NEVER EVER be HUNG!!!!!GRRRRRRR……………….XXX

  • Donna O'Klock
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 6:27 AM

    Your garden seems so peaceful and free. An exquisite place to wander, or sit with a cup of coffee. Those Bolero Roses bring tears to my eyes – they are everything I think a rose should be: sensual, luscious, subtle and you say they’re fragrant. Sounds heavenly! There is a rose everyone grows down here in Texas – compact, bright red, thorny as all get-out and no fragrance. None at all. But the deer don’t bother them. An unscented rose… So disappointing.
    My Mom always had roses and it may be time for me to try my hand at a bush. I’ll look around for a Bolero. Thanks, as always for the inspo. Congratulations on your award – you deserve it! And I hope that number comes down since it’s too high. Sending good vibes your way!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:50 PM

      That number was explained to me…………feeling a tad bit better!
      BOLERO has a GREAT STINK!!!
      Every rose was created by a red rose!Did you know that?
      Hope you can find one!
      XXX

  • Cynthia
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 6:07 AM

    Sorry that I never comment. But, rest assured, I gobble up every photograph and word on your blog. Thank you for blogging!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:48 PM

      IS this the CYNTHIA who PAINTS in ATLANTA AREA?
      THANK YOU for telling me you are here too!It helps me to KEEP ON POSTING!
      Some days I feel I have nOTHING to SHARE!
      My world seems to be getting smaller and going by way TO FAST!
      THANK YOU!
      XXX

  • Jeanne Henriques
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 5:35 AM

    Congratulations, Elizabeth!! Well deserved and oh my—how your garden does grow. It looks absolutely stunning, we would never see the breadth of your flowering beauties at Tahilla Farm—love what the California sunshine does for gardens. A big flowering hat off to the gardeners too…. And your sweetest rose-your gorgeous granddaughter…your GG. Precious…and I love that you are sharing your passions with her.

    Take care, Elizabeth

    Jeanne xx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:45 PM

      THANKS JEANNE.We have had rain here last night which was light enough to help the SPRING BUDS BURST into BLOOMS!Now, a day or 7 of pure sunshine would HELP!
      XXX

  • rena.spain
    · Reply

    April 26, 2025 at 4:54 AM

    Congratulation No. 42 is a good result among 80. You are always good for a surprise.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:42 PM

      ALWAYS…………!!
      Hope the move went well and you are settled in.
      XXX

  • Fran
    · Reply

    April 25, 2025 at 6:58 PM

    CONGRATULATIONS DEAREST CONTESSA!!!! Big HONOUR, INDEED!!!! I LOVE EVERYTHING about your ENCHANTING Garden….. Gorgeous Vila and it’s BEAUTIFUL Occupants!!!! A TRUE SHANGRI-LA!!!! You have spent MANY YEARS creating and now You are able to ENJOY it all!!!! I am SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!! Your health WILL IMPROVE in such a BEAUTIFUL Environment!!!! I HAVE NO DOUBTS!!!!
    XXOO

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:41 PM

      As you know we are TWINNING in different countries!Good you got to a CERVICAL SPINE DOCTOR but I do wish he was closer.As for your foot pain this week!I haven’t a clue.MY BACK and your foot!TWINS!Hard to cook in these situations but I did make your QUICHE and it was DELICIOUS!
      Many things to still FIX before it becomes SHANGRI-LA!!!
      RETIRED HUBBY with chain saw is NOT HELPING THE VISION!
      XOX

  • Leslie Lord
    · Reply

    April 25, 2025 at 3:56 PM

    Congratulations on the award!!!

    Your garden is lush and lovely…I have a green bottle…like yours. We saw them in Italy when travelling…Your watering can area looks great…think I need more green bottles now!!!

    Oh my please keep us posted on the health news. 286 is a big number but am not sure what they were measuring?

    Oh I did think Penelope B was selling…and hooray to see Fifi has a new book.

    Enjoy your roses…and give that sweet granddaughter a big hug from me.
    XO

    Leslie
    Hostess of The Humble Bungalow

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      April 27, 2025 at 1:37 PM

      286 = BNP
      Is a test to measure a protein produced by the heart.
      My heart is working OVERTIME!
      Spoke with Nurse and they knew it would go up because they took me off a few pills.They aren’t as alarmed as I was!!SO THATS GOOD NEWS.I guess…………..
      THANKS for checking in………..XX

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