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HELLO YEAR 2023!

January 7, 2023 63 Comments

THE SAYING WHEN IT RAINS IT POURS IS A GOOD ONE FOR TODAYS THOUGHTS AND HAPPENINGS!

 WE ARE GETTING TONS OF RAIN IN Northern California NOW!

MUCH NEEDED!

 A FEW PHOTOS OF DECEMBER 2022 as well………..

MY PIGGY BANKSY HAS BEEN ACTING DIFFERENT AND WHEN HE DIDNOT WANT TO GO OUTSIDE FOR BREAKFAST; I KNEW SOMETHING WAS AMISS!

AS I WAS WATCHING THE END OF WHITE LOTUS ON HBO WHERE MY CONTESSA CAFTAN WAS SEEN IN THE VILLA IN THE LAST SHOW;ON Penelope Bianchi  I SUDDENLY HAD A TUMMY ATTACK; AS I HAD BEEN HAVING DIARRHEA FOR DAYS.AS I RAN PAST HIM HE WAS CALMLY VOMITING!

THANK GOODNESS I HAD LEARNED HOW TO PAUSE THE SHOW ON THE TV!

I TEXTED THAT PIGGY DENTIST/ MANICURIST (EMILY THE TRIMMER) WHO I DIDNOT EXPECT TO ANSWER RIGHT AWAY!

I SENT HER A PHOTO OF HIS REGERGATATION AND HIS FACE.

SHE REPLIED IMMEDIATELY WITH “THAT DOES NOT LOOK GOOD!”

EMILY LIVES IN TEXAS BUT TRAVELS  FOR HER WORK A LOT!SHE RESPONDS,” DID YOU GET THE ITEMS I TOLD YOU TO GET ” AND I ANSWERED NO I WAS UNABLE TO LEAVE THE HOUSE MONDAY!

GUESS WHY?

HER THOUGHTS on BANKSY WERE CONSTIPATION!SO THE OPPOSITE OF MY PROBLEM!

SO SHE CAME WITH A CVS BAG LOADED WITH CHILDS ENEMAS,mineral oil to put on food ETC……..I GOT THE DRIED PRUNES ON WEDNESDAY!(I THOUGHT SHE WAS IN TEXAS ACTUALLY SHE WAS 45 MINUTES AWAY FROM ME AT HER PARENTS AND HAD JUST FINISHED HER DAY OF TRIMMING!WHAT DOES SHE DO BUT JUMP IN THE CAR STOP AT CVS BUY’S ME SUPPLIES AND SHOWS UP WITHIN AN HOUR AT MY FRONT DOOR!TALK ABOUT AN SOS TEXT AND A HOUSE CALL ALL WITHIN AN HOURS TIME!!!!

UNHEARD OF IN THIS DAY AND AGE!!

AFTER CHECKING HIS MOUTH FOR BLOCKAGE AND USING HER TOOL FOR TRIMMING NAILS AS THAT CAN MAKE THEM “GO!”SHE LET HIM GET UP AND HE WAS PISSED AND SOMEHOW THE BOX OF CHEERIOS GOT HIM OUTSIDE IN THE DARKNESS OF THE NIGHT TO HAVE AN ENEMA AND ANOTHER!

AFTER SUCCESS AND ANOTHER AND A THIRD!

TOTAL SUCCESS IN THAT DEPARTMENT!

TO BE HONEST THAT WAS OVER A MONTH AGO AND BANKSY AND I ARE STILL NOT RIGHT!

I THINK WE ATE THE SAME THING PERHAPS (SALMON) COMES TO MIND AND IT DIDNOT AGREE WITH US.

I have fixed my BOWELS with ZYPAN a herbal drug the FUNCTIONAL DOCTOR HAD GIVEN ME.

IT has been a LIFE SAVER for me as I have had problems my entire LIFE!

OKAY OFF THIS SUBJECT AND ONWARDS TO THE PRETTY THINGS!

 HOWEVER, IF YOU NEED A PIG HOOF TRIMMER ANYWHERE IN THE United States  EMILY HAS HER CREW!

SHE CAN BE IN MANY PLACES AT ONE TIME!

CHECK OUT THE

MOHRMETHODGROUP.COM

AS I HAVE ALWAYS SAID,” EMILY YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN A VET!”

  BUT THEN WHERE WOULD I BE WITHOUT HER GORGEOUS SMILE AND KNOWLEDGE OF ALL THINGS ANIMALS!

BELIEVE ME SHE IS FULL OF KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE WITH HORSES, SHEEP, GOATS AND CHICKENS NOT TO BE FORGOTTEN MY TEA CUP PIGGY!WHICH SHE HONESTLY CORRECTED ME ON HIS WEIGHT!I HAD SAID 165 POUNDS? SHE INFORMED ME MORE LIKE 190 POUNDS!

HIS FOOD CONSUMPTION IS 1/3 cup of piggy pellets twice a day with a fruit or vegetable.

Then he eats at the table with us at dinner time!

A lettuce leaf here and there and a piece of potato.NO MEAT!

In spring summer he grazes in the backyard with a favorite being LEMON BALM!

In fall it is acorns and crap apples .

In WINTER HE DOES NOT LEAVE THE HOUSE AND THE DOGS DO NOT SHARE!

 MY CHRISTMAS PURCHASE TO MYSELF………….

IT WAS COSTLY BUT MADE IN AMERICA!

I LOVED THE NECKLINE!

THAT SOLD IT TO ME!

The shoes are by BIRDIES in San Francisco!

I guess I did not buy enough shoes this year as I did not get a water bottle, baseball cap and a hand written note!SAYING THANK YOU FOR BEING A GOOD CUSTOMER!

I was so IMPRESSED WITH THAT LAST YEAR!(The hand written note!)

SO I guess I  WILL NOT LINK THEM HERE!

As far as the dress goes most Holiday attire is on SALE NOW you might want to take a PEEK!

Here is the LINK BELOW!

COCO AND JASE!

I did BUY another dress which came in the wrong length however they will custom size it!!!!

Which is a PERK when you are tall or short!AT NO EXTRA CHARGE!

They FIXED THAT IMMEDIATELY AND SENT ME A RETURN LABEL.

THINGS HAPPEN!!!

MISTAKES ARE MADE……………….I ended up buying ANOTHER DRESS!

Only not being able to wear it yet!

A GLIMPSE OF YOU KNOW WHO!

  IN HIS VINTAGE SMOKING JACKET!

  THE ITALIAN!

 OUR TREE.

He does the lights DA SOLO and I help with the ornaments!!

 PLEASE DO NOT COMMENT ON THE WAD OF WIRES BEHIND HIM!

That would have been covered.

We had to push back for everyone to fit!

  HORRORS I DID NOT CATCH THAT!

 It is a HARD JOB being the stylist, photographer and all over OPERATIONS GAL!

 Never mind getting him to stand still for a photograph is nearly IMPOSSIBLE!

Christmas Eve DINNER………….

MY LOVELY FRIEND LINDA OF 38 YEARS sent the FLOWERS THAT DAY!

THEY LASTED OVER A WEEK!

 What a thoughtful GIFT!

 HOW DID SHE KNOW I NEEDED A CENTER PIECE!

 A DEAR FAMILY MEMBER AT 88 years of AGE!

YOU KNOW THE SAYING WE LOOK LIKE OUR DOGS?

WELL, IN THIS CASE ITS SO TRUE!

DO YOU AGREE?

 WE HAD HER and LIZZIE FOR CHRISTMAS LUNCH.

 A LOVELY TIME HAD BY ALL.

LA TAVOLA FOR THE ITALIANS BIRTHDAY ON JANUARY 2,2023

 HE ARRIVED AT THE LOVELY AGE OF 63 YEARS OLD…………

 I’m right behind him in JULY!

  WHERE HAS THE TIME GONE?

THIS IS THE LAST PHOTO OF ME ON JANUARY 2 ,as I have been exhausted between my on going HEALTH stuff and maybe a BAD COLD?Who knows I took a COVID test YESTERDAY and it was NEGATIVE.Body is heavy, hard time breathing, cough which I always have and slight sore throat plus HEADACHES!

ANY SUGGESTIONS………….I AM GARGLING WITH SALT WATER.Taking ADVIL which seems to be working on the headaches!SLEEPING ALL DAY!Which does not interfere with my night sleeping!

Plus a cough syrup.

Meanwhile, the other day when I could ADD (do mathematics) I went through my calendar and added up how many EPISODES I HAVE HAD in 2022!

SEEMS WE ARE GETTING THERE AFTER A YEAR AND A HALF OF MEDICATION!

WILL THIS EVER END?

WE ARE IN YEAR EIGHT as of November 2022.

That’s how long I have been keeping track of them.

If you are new here I’ll explain below.

AN EPISODE IS WHERE I LOSE VISION, FEEL FAINT AND AM LEFT WITH A HEADACHE.

AND I had a horrific one JAN 3,2023 sitting down to eat lunch……………..

Imagine this: Someone has their hands around your neck your neck muscles are as HARD AS A ROCK!

YOU LOSE YOUR VISION.

YOU CANNOT STAND UP AND WALK because of the  DIZZINESS and VISION LOSS.

THIS LASTS FOR MINUTES FEELS LIKE HOURS.

A HEADACHE COMES AND KNOCKS YOU OFF YOUR FEET FOR TWO DAYS!

AS IF SOMEONE IS BANGING ON YOUR HEAD WITH A PAN!

YOU ARE AFRAID TO MOVE FOR FEAR OF TRIGGERING IT AGAIN!

YOU FEEL LIKE A BAG OF NOODLES!

DEAD NOODLES.

NOTHING CAN BE DONE AFTER AN EPISODE!YOU EITHER SLEEP OR SIT AND STARE INTO SPACE AS READING IS OUT OF THE QUESTION!

These are called FOCAL SEIZURES a form of EPILEPSY.WHICH I WAS TOLD I HAD A YEAR AND A HALF AGO!

AFTER MANY YEARS OF ZERO DIAGNOSIS.

I STILL CANNOT BELIEVE IT!

I WISH YOU A GOOD YEAR FULL OF FUN AND BEAUTY!

 Desires to go and see new places even if it is the coffee shop down the street.

 MAKE A NEW FRIEND OR LEARN TO DANCE LIKE MY 82 YEAR OLD GIRLFRIEND!

YOU KNOW THE ONE WHO IS AN INFLUENCER AND CLIMBS A LADDER WITH HER EVEN OLDER HUSBAND TO MAKE A VIDEO DANCING ON HER ROOFTOP IN Los Angeles!!

I WATCHED THE US CONGRESS ON THE NEWS LAST NIGHT ON THE 14th VOTE!

WHAT A SH – –  SHOW!

Most of them were on their phones!

THERE WAS NO DECORUM!

PERIOD!

NEXT THEY WILL BE SHOWING UP IN SWEATS AND T-SHIRTS!!!!!!!!!

 YOU KNOW I WILL HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT THAT!

  XXX

 I have some fun POSTS lined up for your reading enjoyment in 2023!

 HERE  is a BLOG / NEWSLETTER written by a charming gal in ROME!

GOURMETPROJECT.NET

IF YOU LIKE TO EAT AND YOU LOVE TO COOK THIS MIGHT BE FOR YOU!

 HER PHOTOGRAPHY IS STUNNING AS WELL…….

  THIS IS THE BEAUTY OF BLOGGING………TRAVELING AROUND THE WORLD!

AND IT’S FREE!

 SOAK IT UP LADIES AND GENTLEMEN.

    XXX

 IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ASK ME A QUESTION PLEASE DO SO IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!

KEEP SCROLLING DOWN!I WILL ANSWER EACH AND EVERY ONE!

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  • Marleah Krohne
    · Reply

    January 23, 2023 at 3:29 PM

    Just catching up on blog posts.
    Hugs

  • Mumbai
    · Reply

    January 16, 2023 at 8:16 AM

    Hi, dear Contessa….have a wonderful and healthy 2023! Love the xmas pics of your home and your stunning Tartinkaftan. You both looks fabulous. Remember time will heal everything and regarding your episodes…count the “0” not the numbers. Would be nice if you like to have a glimpse on my instagram account …rena.spain….which I opened this year….and follow me. All the best!

  • Rena McDaniel
    · Reply

    January 15, 2023 at 6:47 AM

    I’m so sorry you’re feeling sick. I’ve been dealing with the same exact issues. It’s miserable! I love the picture of you & hubby and your new caftan. I love neckline.

  • Katherine
    · Reply

    January 11, 2023 at 7:46 PM

    Hope you’re feeling better my dear E-Beth, love to GP

  • lisa thomson-author
    · Reply

    January 11, 2023 at 7:13 PM

    Hello, La CONTESSA, happy new year and all the best in 2023. hard to believe a new year has begun. Love all the photos. The Italian is looking dapper with his beautiful wife by his side. Sorry to hear about Banksy’s colon issues (and yours! I had that problem a few years ago, and omitted lactose, which helped). Poor thing. I’m sorry to hear you’ve not been feeling well. I see that the episodes have lessened in the last year at least that is great news! That festive, plaid kaftan looks so flattering on you! LOVE it.

  • Jill James
    · Reply

    January 10, 2023 at 5:56 PM

    Hello Elizabeth , not a great start to the New Year for both you and Banksy. I do hope you will soon be feeling better . There have been many different viruses circulating here , one in fact put my sister in hospital. I sincerely hope that health wise this year is a better one for you.
    On another note your Christmas dress looks stunning, a wonderful shot of you both , so very stylish.No surprise that your table was spectacular.
    Take care.

  • kim
    · Reply

    January 10, 2023 at 1:51 PM

    I just love the neckline on that dress and it’s so pretty! Was the perfect choice. You can wear those long dresses so well. Love your gorgeous table and those flowers from Linda! Sweet photo of you and Giampi
    I hope 2023 is going to be a better year and things are easier. We are getting rained out to start and I hope you’re staying safe and feel better. Hugs and love. xo

  • Hilda Smith
    · Reply

    January 10, 2023 at 3:42 AM

    I am so sorry you are feeling so awful. You certainly have had MORE than your share of health problems over the past few years. And I admire your ability to stay upbeat and see the beauty and joy in everything. I really look forward to your posts and admiring your beautiful home in all its festive glory. I hope to read that you are feeling better in your next post. And you and The Italian make such a gorgeous couple. x

  • Pipistrello
    · Reply

    January 9, 2023 at 9:23 PM

    Oh, dearest Contessa, I’m sorry to read you’re really not well. You poor dear! I wish you better and healthier times and soon.

    Baci bella xx

    ps: Your Xmas photos and festive frock look fabulous. x

  • Candace Wilson Culp
    · Reply

    January 9, 2023 at 3:27 PM

    Hello lovely!
    A great post tho sorry about the illness with you and the piggy.
    You look divine in that gown and necklace, and the Italian is so elegant. You entertain so beautifully, I admire that about you. My life became casual over time due to Robert’s work schedule. Our daughter thought everyone had dinner on trays in bed!
    Please let us all feel better this year. It’s on my agenda.
    Love, Candace

  • Rosemarie
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 10:32 PM

    HAPPY NEW YEAR – CONTESSA
    Oh my what an end month for 2022 with you being ill – Banksy also. Emily is so caring to do a house call for Banksy. Better than our local GPs who don’t even know where we live!
    The tree – so beautiful and bright – must be stunning to walk in when only its lights are on. The Italian looks so debonair in his smoking jacket! Belated birthday greetings.
    Loved the centre piece – who was the florist?
    Yes so true your friend/dog – hair – they looked so sweet together – the way the hair is parted and hangs on the side.
    My gawd re your continuing health issues – main thing seizures are getting less and less but all the other issues. I wish there were some drs reading your blog who would clue in and offer advice. I wish too drs had a site to connect and would say – hey I have a patient and these are some of the symptoms – what’s your take – what am I missing? If they don’t talk amongst themselves how are they going to learn more – help patients.
    I looked up cough – sore throat – yes honey is good for cough and even mentioned recently re adults on news that it helps to suppress a cough. (here in Canada in some areas there is a shortage of cold medicine and especially for children.) For sore throat I read – gargle with a cup of warm water – 1/8 tsp salt AND 1/4 tsp baking soda (for bacteria etc.). Peppermint – clove – chamomile or green tea is good to drink.
    Shall look forward to your upcoming posts.

    **from the Recycling Dame***. a man yesterday said he was happy to give me the cans/bottles for my trip to California!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:38 AM

      I LOVE IT!
      YOU WILL BE HERE BEFORE YOU KNOW IT!!!
      YES HERE TOO SHORTAGES IN PHARMACY’s THE SHELVES ARE WIPED OUT NOTHING IN STOCK!
      I REALLY DONOT UNDERSTAND WHAT IS GOING ON!!
      XXX

  • Katherine
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 3:35 PM

    I’m back, my foggy mind forgot to tell you how gorgeous your Christmas tree looked. Big kudos to you both as I know it’s a collective effort.
    You both looked so festive, a very stylish couple. Loved the dress, and the necklace finished it off with a “wowie.”

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:36 AM

      WE BOTH RE-LIVE OUR CHILDHOODS WHEN IT COMES TO THIS HOLIDAY!
      WE ARE BOTH TRADITIONALISTS!
      XXX

  • judith
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 2:19 PM

    Dearest Contessa:

    Happy New Year and welcome back! What a nice surprise to find this in my inbox today. As others have said, your posts are chock-full of so many goodies, yet you also always give us something to think about and to take seriously. You and the Italian are fashion plates in your Christmas garb. I liked the present tower and the fabulous tree, as well as the gorgeous tablescapes and all of the news. As to health, may this be a healthy, or at least healthier, year for us all. Keep resting, keep up the fluids, and try and find enjoyable moments in every day. You are so loved and your vitality will prevail!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:30 AM

      YOUR WORDS BRING JOY TO MY EARS………
      THANK YOU JUDITH!
      IAM COUGHING AwAY HERE NOT DOING WELL BUT I APPRECIATE YOU READERSHIP AND FRIENDSHIP!
      XXX

  • Katherine
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 1:28 PM

    Hi Contessa,
    The table for Christmas and flowers look beautiful. You put so much love into everything you do. What I most admire when you aren’t feeling so swell you still power through.
    I’m sure your doctor knows what he or she is doing and how you are being treated for your intestinal issues. I just wanted to share last year I went through pure hell with stomach issues. I researched myself and came up I could have H.pylori. I mentioned this to my previous Gastro doctor and he ordered me a bowel smear test. Sure enough that is what I had. It’s a bacteria. So difficult to get rid of. I was on many different antibiotics.
    I’m not saying you have this but I was just wondering if that had been ruled out. You mentioned the Salmon you ate, You can get it from food or when you travel out of the country. Bad stomach cramps and not so nice intestinal issues.
    I’m immunocompromised and take meds and infusions that compromise me so I have to be extremely careful. I also always stay masked up while in public.
    So sorry about the cold and the episodes you have. That is so scary, you are probably a pro at coping and dealing with them by now.
    You remain in my thoughts and guardian Angel prayers.
    Glad Bansky is better.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:34 AM

      THANK YOU I DO KNOW ABOUT THAT DISEASE AND I DONOT HAVE IT!
      WHAT EVER I HAD GLUTEN BUILD UP OVER THE YEARS ETC THE ZYPAN FIXED AND I WENT OFF IT SO NOW WHEN I HAD THIS LAST GO AROUND I STARTED USING IT AGAIN AND IT HAS CURED ME!
      I WILl ALwAYD KEEP ON HAND.
      THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCE!!
      WE ARE HERE TO LEARN from one another THATS FOR SURE!
      XXXX

  • Lorna
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 1:24 PM

    Happy new year Elizabeth. Hope you and Banish are feeling better. I’m looking forward to all you’ll be sharing with us. I’m still deciding whether to continue blogging or not. I feel like I have nothing to say anymore. Sounds like you had an enjoyable Christmas season. Ours was nice. This weekend we got everything boxed up. It was a chore and I’m glad it’s completed.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:28 AM

      TAKE A BREAK………………MAYBE THAT WILL HELP.
      TALK ABOUT THE OLD MAlTA YOU GREW UP WITH VERSES THE NEW MALTA?
      I UNDERSTAND,
      WHEN I AM FEELING BETTER I WILL CALL YOU ON INSTAGRAM!HAVE YOU HAD A PHONE CALL THERE BEFORE?
      XXX

  • Juliet
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 12:53 PM

    Happy New Year, Contessa! I’m sorry you and Banksy-baby got off to a poor start in 2023. Thank goodness for the lickity-split response of Banksy’s groomer/medic. What a treasure she is. Your holiday caftan is stunning … and the neckline! I can’t believe we’re seeing you with bare neckline … but then there you go with a stunner of a statement necklace for Christmas. Love the Italian’s smoking jacket. You two … your tree … your elegant and festive table … are Christmas goals. Where are the magazines to photograph this amazing scene for next year’s holiday issues? You’re right that our blogging friends bring us along to new and exciting places and experiences and we don’t even have to leave home. I’m excited for the posts you have up your pretty sleeves. Continue to rest, gargle, Advil and kick your feet up. Here’s to an episode-free 2023. xoxo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:25 AM

      WE ARE LIMPING ALONG HERE…………….the dogs have been great.
      HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AS WELL NEIGHBOR!!
      XOXO

  • Nena
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 12:42 PM

    I’m sending major healing thoughts to you for this year and forever!!!! I hope you and Bansky are feeling better right now!
    I’ll look forward to seeing you soon and often for Book and Film Clubs.

    New Year hugs….

    Nena

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:23 AM

      I HOPE SO NENA…………what ever I have and it seems to be FLU related has really put me down!
      AS YOU KNOW WE HAVE NO TIME FOR THIS CRAP!!!
      HUGS BACK TO YOU!
      XXX

  • D. A. Squires
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 12:15 PM

    I have missed you!! Your posts are … I think the word may be… eclectic (I almost typed electric : ), or maybe a potpourri, or a bouillabaisse. There is so much to take in and always unexpected… I tend read them quickly, almost breathlessly, and then go back and reread slowly because you cover so much ‘territory’ in one dose : ) As others have said, I feel like you are having a conversation with each of us, and we are right there with you. And I always feel a range of emotions from LOL to worrying, to smiling, to learning something new, to thinking more deeply about what you have written. Most of all, I just love the person you are, and hope and pray the trendline continues in 2023 with fewer episodes and overall GOOD health. We are now in wedding mode… the date is April 22, Earth Day : ) XOXO

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:22 AM

      EARTH DAY!PERFECTION!
      DO YOU HAVE YOUR DRESS MOTHER OF THE BRIDE?
      WE NEED TO WRITE AN EMAIL AND CATCH UP ON LIFE!
      I AM STILL UNDER THE WeATHER AND WAITING FOR THE ITALIAN TO RETURN FROM SKIING………………..
      I HAVE GOTTEN ZERO DONE IN 8 DAYS.
      MORE LATER When I FEEL BETTER!
      EXCITED FOR YOU!
      XOXO

  • Vaughan
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 11:50 AM

    I love looking around your home. I am now curious about the fireplace. Is there a railing over it? Such a creative human you are. So sorry about your sickness and Banksy’s. You seem a trooper to me. What a tree! Amazing. So huge. must have taken forever to light and decorate. Big hugs.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 10, 2023 at 10:19 AM

      YES, its a vintage railing!That we made a shelf out of.Never enough space to put stuff.Not my first choice but what I could afford at the time!Thank You for your kind words…….XXX

  • Karen Persson
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 11:16 AM

    Hi Elizabeth,

    Hope you’re doing ok with all the storms and flooding. It’s so tragic what’s going on. Sending love and healing vibes to help you with your health.

    Love the photos and your table settings are incredible!

    Love,

    Karenxooxo

  • Ms. Mary
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 11:14 AM

    Sending healthy thoughts,. 🙂 I’m amazed how you get so much done (tree, gifts, guests, piggy issues) while challenged with your health. I returned from St. Louis (12/28) with a bad cold and just yesterday broke down and went to the walk-in and got an antibiotic Rx. Also celebrated my birthday while sick. WAAAA!
    Hope you have much improvement soon and look forward to a healthy 2023. <3

  • 1010ParkPlace
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 10:21 AM

    You’ve had a rough go of it health-wise. Here’s wishing you a better new year. I think you’re amazing as you do your best to be a participant in your own life. I know it’s difficult, but I admire your strength and determination. Sending you lots of love, Brenda

  • Dee Black
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 9:38 AM

    Hi Contessa,
    Happy Birthday to Your Italian. My husbands is today. Mine tomorrow. Love Capricorns!
    Mini seizures are awful and they do leave you drained. Very scary. I know that fear well! Our son had febrile seizures when young. The cold symptoms you are experiencing, is exactly the same as my husbands currently.
    Banksy so glad you got some obviously needed relief, wink wink! Emily is a real pro, her card should read: HELPS ON THE WAY!
    Your decorations were beautiful. I agree, the floral arrangement from your friend was so lovely, allowing the perfect table setting to shine even more.
    Love the dress. Must confess I do not wear dresses. Only pants. Have you considered a line of lounge pjs? All things that say Contessa: Flowers, pets, sparkles, coffee, expresso. Would love that!
    Yes, the Speaker of The House hearings, I must agree with you!
    Thank you for the pictures and entertainment, all of 2022. Looking forward to 2023 following along.

  • Joan
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 9:33 AM

    Me, too, love to read your postings, and am amazed that you do so much even though you are under the weather. My recipe to cure anything respiratory:
    Wash 3 whole lemons and chop in pieces, squeeze juice fromone before you chop it, peel and all. Place all into a saucepan with cold water.
    Chop up and add a hunk of washed ginger root the size of a lemon.
    Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 mins. When ready to drink
    add honey to taste. You can keep it in the fridge and add more water, bring to a boil and use again. Hope this will help dear Contessa…love the picture of you and hubby.

  • Lynn McClain
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 9:18 AM

    My mother had your same symptoms for years during the 50s. One doctor said she “probably” had a brain tumor. That diagnosis caused a complete mental breakdown.
    By the 70s she was diagnosed with a combination of two migraine types and hysterical blindness, a very rare situation which lasted to the end of her life at 68. Wishing you much better luck!!!

  • Alexandra Timmons
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 9:06 AM

    Here’s to happiness, health, and healing for 2023!

  • Connie Lewis
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 9:06 AM

    So glad to see another past and hoping that you are on the mend from your current health issues

    Love all the photos of your beautiful home. I believe we should be surrounded by the things that make us happy. Along with that I am ridding my home of unwanted items. I want to be surrounded by my favorite things. Cooking has been a struggle lately. Does that happen for everyone ?
    I love reading the replies from my online friends !

  • Trish
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 8:55 AM

    So much to comment on!! Alas, I am off to meet a dog at the park who might be coming home w us. (Nola needs a sibling). I love u! I love your unabashed sharing of u and Banksy, the musings of all of life’s offerings, the pictures of your home… ALL OF IT!!!

    More soon my friend. 2023 is going to be OUTRAGEOUS!

    XOXO

  • Leslie Lord
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 8:51 AM

    I am sorry to hear that you are “under the weather” Elizabeth. I wonder if probiotics might help your tummy issues? I have been reading about them a lot lately.
    Your table looks fabulous! Very elegant and welcoming. A lovely spot to dine and enjoy your hospitality.
    I hope that 2023 will be a great year for you…your kindness and compassion for others is truly inspiring and I am grateful that you continue to share the beautiful things in your daily round with us.
    XO
    Hostess of The Humble Bungalow
    Leslie

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 9, 2023 at 1:43 PM

      AM REALLY SICK WILL ANSWER IN A FEW SAYS!
      SO SORRY

  • Celeste
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 7:36 AM

    Such beautiful pictures!
    I’m so sorry for the health challenges. I hope the episodes continue to drop in 2023. Is it possible that the medication is causing some of the other issues? My “recipe” for the immune system is elderberry syrup, mushroom powder (I’ll have to find the specific type), vitamin C and D. I always have Zicam on hand to use when I feel a cold type thing coming on. But frankly, since I never go anywhere, I rarely have anything anymore.
    Happy Birthday to your gorgeous husband. I am January too. Time marches on.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:41 AM

      I KNOW YOU ARE AND I ALWAYS FORGET!GOING TO MY ADDRESS BOOK OF ANCIENT TIMES TO LOOK IT UP!EXPECT A CALL ON YOU DAY!THE 18th??
      NO Not from medication my symptoms now.But I do have other symptoms from the meds actually I have ALL OF THEM as I AM ON TWO DIFFERENT Anti-seizure meds………twice daily!
      XOXO

  • Carole
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 7:20 AM

    Try 1tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in hot water, drink like a tea, cures my cough. You look beautiful!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:37 AM

      I will try………but my cough is always there as I have LADY WINDERMERE or better known as MAC!I will report back if it helps……………….this disease comes from BIRD SHIT!
      I kid you NOT!I had chickens for many years and doves……..xxx

  • PATRICIA H. Flournoy
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 7:03 AM

    I am planning on Feeling Good in 2023…Please join me? (Keeping fingers crossed).
    Just joking! Seriously, My Best Wishes for a Healthy, Happy 2023. I so enjoy reading your blog…

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:35 AM

      It’s a DEAL PATRICIA!!!!!
      ARE YOU NOT IN FRANCE?
      I WOULD LOVE TO COME VISIT!LETS MAKE THAT HAPPEN ONE DAY!
      AT THIS POINT I STILL DO NOT FEEL CONFIDENT ENOUGH TO TRAVEL ALONE……..and getting THAT ITALIAN TO FRANCE is worse then getting him to pose for a PHOTO!
      XXX

  • Marcie
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 6:29 AM

    I love seeing your photos of your beautiful house, amazing pets, handsome Italian and, most of all, yourself in your many caftans, and always look forward to your posts. I am very sorry to read about your episodes; they sound scary and painful. I hope some kind of medication can be found soon to help you. Best wishes for the new year.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:33 AM

      THE MEDS NOW ARE HELPING A LOT.I HAVE GONE FROM 4 to 6 SEIZURES A MONTH TO AN AVERAGE OF TWO!SO I AM SO THANKFUL FOR THAT……..maybe with little adjustments we can get it RIGHT!
      XXX

  • Gray
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 6:28 AM

    I love you from the other coast and am so worried about you. I used to get migraines a lot, before menopause, and THEY ARE THE WORST! I could not make myself do anything, but lay in bed with an eye mask on. I am sorry you and Banksy had troubles over the holidays.
    I hope all is restored to normal or at least to bearable!
    I know which friend you are talking about, dancing around on her roof, that one. Tell her my motto – if the music is good, you might as well dance…I want to dance with her.
    Take care. xo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:30 AM

      Been in bed last 4 days……………………sleeping all day and all night!
      It has just kept getting worse!ANYWAY I hope to be on the mend soon!
      In the beginning 8 years ago they tired to tell me I had MIGRAINES!I told them I donot think so!But they had me on pills that made me so so sick…….think I went through SEVEN different ones before I SAID ENOUGH!
      OF COURSE YOU DO……….SANDRA SALLIN!!!WASN’T THAT THE BEST CLIP EVER!!!!!!!THEY ARE SO CREATIVE!
      SHE WOULD LOVE THAT!!!
      XXX

  • Barbara Spain
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 6:26 AM

    Sending you healing thoughts this morning, Contessa! I enjoyed seeing the pictures of your twinkling Christmas tree! We both share the same Christmas tree job! Mr T is the lighting guy and after he’s done fiddling with the bulbs that need a little tweaking, I open up the decoration boxes and place the ornaments on the tree! Teamwork!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:26 AM

      YES!
      TEAM WORK INDEED!
      DIdn’t your husband retire recently this past year?I have a fun post coming up you will enjoy and could possibly add too!
      XXX

      • Barbara Spain
        · Reply

        January 8, 2023 at 11:24 AM

        Mr T retired in 2019… I’m might have a few thoughts on husbands and retirement… wink, wink!

  • M
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 6:17 AM

    Love your posts! I hope you have a healthier 2023. The body is such a complicated machine, one thing goes amiss and it becomes a domino effect.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:24 AM

      With me its been numerous obstacles…………….I am better than the year before so that is what counts!I would have 4 to 6 FOCAL SEIZURES A MONTH.This past year I averaged TWO!!
      XXX

  • Diana Amato
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 5:47 AM

    I am also wondering where all the time has gone. My mom came out for a visit in the beginning of July and has since decided to stay through the winter months. We just lost my dearest Aunt Rita, who was 99 years old! (I’ll be writing more about her on an upcoming blog post.) I use a detox/immune boosting remedy of green tea, aloe juice, fresh ginger and fresh squeezed lemon, apple cider vinegar and honey. All ingredients are used to taste with boiling water. It really helps with the cough and congestion, just ask my mom! She was quite skeptical at 89 years old, but she is a true believer now. I’m wishing you a very Happy New Year 2023.

    La Zingara
    Diana

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:22 AM

      GRAZIE!
      I will give it a try as I have all the ingredients but TWO!
      Happy to hear your MAMMA stayed in CALIFORNIA!Isn’t she from BUFFALO?
      What a scare that would have been for you!!
      XXX

  • Carol Carter
    · Reply

    January 8, 2023 at 5:38 AM

    I enjoy your blog posts so much — your writing is so authentic — I feel like you are sitting in my living room! Thanks for sharing your lovely holiday photos — nothing better than a very large Christmas tree. We were leaving for a short trip this year right after Christmas so I insisted that my husband buy a small, 5-foot tree, since the larger ones take so long to dress and undress and I knew I wouldn’t have the time. But I missed my 8-foot tree this year and decided we will need to get two large trees next year to make up for this year. (Already dreaming about them!) I hope you feel better soon — so many illnesses going around and they seem to hang on forever!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 10:18 AM

      Carol!
      I have tried for the past two years to go smaller on the tree as the puppy BETTY and the piggy Banksy are so curious with it!NO WAY will THAT ITALIAN BEND!HE loves the BIG TREES and as long as I HAVE HIM to drag and erect it is fine by me!HE IS LIKE A KID IN A CANDY SHOP WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS!WE had two trees one year too!We loved it!One in the kitchen and one in the living room!He puts the tree on timers so its all lit up when we walk out of the bedroom!Then goes off about 10 pm.I highly recommend a TIMER.The morning setting for us is 4 am to 9am then eve is 4pm to 10pm.He is an early riser!!
      THANK YOU for your good wishes I can take all of them!!
      XXX

  • Claudia
    · Reply

    January 7, 2023 at 11:35 PM

    Your table settings are always amazing! For throat etc try ginger tea: boiling fresh ginger (you can add cinnamon, cloves etc) for ten minutes, drink when drinkable-hot! Recipe from a friend from Mauritius ? Thanks for the ref!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 5:10 AM

      ANYTIME!
      THANK YOU FOR THE GINGER TIP………………..molto graze!
      Ciao a ROMA!
      XXX

    • Karen Persson
      · Reply

      January 8, 2023 at 11:14 AM

      I’m a huge fan of fresh ginger tea! I make it each morning which I started 3 years ago. Have’t tried adding cinnamon or cloves, yet, but I’ll try that!

  • Emily Mohring
    · Reply

    January 7, 2023 at 9:01 PM

    Thank you so much! I’m always happy to help and even happier I happened to be close by! If anyone would like to check out more of my work you can find it across all socials @emilythetrimmer

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      Author
      January 8, 2023 at 5:11 AM

      SO on INSTAGRAM,FACEBOOK and that TWITTER……….anything I am missing?
      XXX

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