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The Vintage Contessa

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HODGE ~ PODGE.

April 28, 2016 114 Comments

I MATCHED THE ROOM.

I arrived with a BOX of CHEERIO’s for MY GRAND PIG!He heard me coming and ran away the BOYS said.He did an ABOUT FACE when HE saw who it was shaking that BOX of DELICIOUS TREATS coming down the staircase………….HIS FAVORITE PERSON IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD.I would HOPE.

CHEERIO's

I just gave HIM a FEW as it was close to dinner time!

DELICIOUS.

SEE, just a FEW……………

I was pleasantly surprised he had not grown much more since my last visit.

FEEDING TIME

The BOYS have a CHART set up in the kitchen to mark HIS height!I suggested WE weigh HIM instead of saying we think HE is close to a 100 pounds.

MY GRAND PIGGY

SO BRAVE STRONG NATE Took to the IDEA and brought the scale into the room and stepped on it HIMSELF. HE picked UP BANKSY the TEA CUP PIGGY in HIS arms and I read the scale upside down!

He was SUPPOSE to be a 35 pound PET PIG!

FALSE!!!

HE IS SMILING!

After doing the MATH WE deducted that BANKSY weighed a WHOPPING 123 pounds……SO, much for OUR THEROY of 100 pounds.

Can you make out HIS SMILE In this photo?He has A LITTLE FROTH in the corner of HIS mouth from the TASTE BUDS going into OVER DRIVE!

ALL I could think of was I was 124 POUNDS when I married 30 years ago!I think BANKSY hides it WELL.

As for me………I wear long Coats, Kimono’s and DUSTER’s

to hide the EXCESS.

THEODORE HAS A GARDEN CHAIR.

Theodore,

one of the LOVES’s of MY Life!

He is the GRAND MASTER of the GARDEN both FRONT and BACK.

He PATROLS by NIGHT and sleeps by DAY.

I had visions of this dilapidated love seat going into the COOP!

I do think The CHICKENS would LIKE it to PERCH on.

Never mind the ITALIAN decided it needed to go OUT for GARBAGE PICK UP DAY!

WHY am I the ONLY ONE with CREATIVE, RECYCLING VISION around HERE?

Can YOU SEE the PHOTO OP this chair would have brought to the COOP with chickens High and Low?

YELLOW ROSES

This ROSE I purchased in SEBASTAPOL 16 years ago!That is how long I have been working on MY garden.I had a BIRTHDAY and THREE of us went trekking NORTH for the DAY!.I bought THREE YELLOW ROSES that day.

They are ALL still ALIVE and THRIVING!

One of those Dear Friends has gone to HEAVEN.

The other DUMPED ME

8 years ago.

I have forgotten the name sadly enough………of this particular Yellow Rose.She is a climber.

I have NEVER forgotten MY DEAR BALLERINA in HEAVEN.

I have finally gotten over BEING DUMPED.

It TOOK YEARS!

BOLERO NOT!

This ROSE is NEW to me.I must get down on MY HANDS and KNEES to bring YOU the name.If someone ASKS I will DO IT!

BEAUTIFUL……….

MICHANGELO ROSE

I think I have told YOU ALL before I only DO Yellow and WHITE with a SPLASH of PINK in my GARDEN!

WHY?

BUGGERS……. Got ME……..?

I must have read somewhere that TWO colors made MORE of an IMPACT verses MULTIPLE colors….

THE PLANTS I have had to PASS UP!

SWOONING……

SAVING MANY DOLLARS!!!!!!

Still after 16 years of working in THE GARDEN I can say…….. still pretty much on target.I have the same VISION I did then as I do NOW.

I did ADD purple LAVENDER to a new BED last week!

It spoke to me at the GROCERY STORE of ALL places.

I passed it up the first DAY.

Second day still all 8 of them were still THERE!

I assumed they would BE GONE!

The PLANTS TALK to ME!

SO

That DEAR READERS ; I took as a SIGN!!

TO MY GARDEN

They have Sauntered.

Bridge of Sighs

THE BRIDGE of SIGHS………..with a POTATO VINE.

A few LEAVES still need to FALL down but soon it will be COVERED like a COVERED WAGON!

How many of YOU recall

PAINT YOUR WAGON

The MOVIE

with CLINT EASTWOOD!

I LOVED THAT MOVIE AS A CHILD.

TERRACE GROWTH

Second TERRACE filled with LEMON BALM.This plant grows rampant and self seeds…….I actually LOVE IT.I wonder if we could make a TEA with this….anyone know?

OH MY GOODNESS!

I GOOGLED IT!!

LOOK LOOK LOOK!

NO WONDER I LIKE IT!

 Benefits of Lemon Balm

lemon-balm-plant

Lemon balm has earned a reputation for being a potent health-supporting tool. The name ‘lemon balm’ is attributed to its noticeable lemony scent. While the plant’s reputed effect on vigor and longevity have certainly contributed to its popularity, scientific studies have only served to reinforce its reputation. Here are 10 benefits lemon balm users enjoy.

1. Calms the Mind

Lemon balm has been used for centuries as a popular oil in aromatherapy. It is said that the pure, sweet aroma of the oil promotes a feeling of relaxation and calm. Most sweet oils are said to provide the same benefit. Look for a pure lemon balm essential oil if you are thinking about using the herb in your aromatherapy practice. Lemon balm oil is the oil that has been carefully pressed from the flowers of the lemon balm plant.

2. Encourages Restful Sleep

Lemon balm also encourages a more restful sleep, according to some research. Parents of the children in the German study reported their children slept more peacefully throughout the night after supplementation. A placebo-controlled trial found menopausal women suffering with sleep disruptions reported much better sleep after taking a lemon balm/valerian extract compared to those taking the placebo. [1]

3. Makes Skin Look Years Younger

Lemon balm is still frequently featured in many cosmetics for its soothing effect on the skin. The first cosmetic use of lemon balm goes back to the 1300s when the Queen of Hungary used it to erase the years (and reportedly the wrinkles). It’s still recommended for soothing the skin and reducing fine lines.

4. Boosts Alertness

Although lemon balm calms the mind, it certainly doesn’t dull the mind. An Australian study noted improved alertness in participants supplementing with the herb in addition to feelings of calm and an improved, more positive mood. [2]

5. Sharpens Memory and Problem Solving

Studies like the one above have observed improved memory and problem-solving in test subjects regardless of age after taking lemon balm. Young or old, those taking lemon balm show improvements in problem-solving skills and recall.

Though preliminary, patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease have seen improvements based on several recent studies. In one Chinese study eugenol, a powerful antioxidant found in lemon balm, and acupuncture helped test subjects recover memory-related functions. [3]

Another study noted lemon balm suppresses brain chemical acetylcholinesterase which breaks down the brain-signaling chemical acetylcholine which is responsible for memory and thought. [4] This action helps stimulate and support memory and mood.

6. Powerful Antioxidant

Lemon balm is loaded with antioxidants that keep your cells safe from free radical damage. Studies on eugenol and rosmarinic acid show they support a healthy brain. Other significant antioxidants include ferulic, caffeic acids, and quercetin. [5] Quercetin specifically is known as a powerful compound.

7. Supports the Liver

The liver clears toxins from the body, so keeping it healthy means keeping your entire body healthy. Over time, the process of detoxification can wear down the liver and lead to liver damage. This is especially true if you are eating a diet that is less than ideal. In one trial using animal models, lemon balm proved as effective as a liver drug in protecting the organ from the damaging effects caused by toxins. [6] It also supports the liver’s production of two of the human body’s natural antioxidants: glutathione and superoxide dismutase. [7]

8. Supports Normal Blood Sugar

Many herbs that support antioxidant levels also help balance blood sugar. Although research is limited on lemon balm’s effect on blood sugar, one study has shown that, when taken consistently, it does promote stable blood sugar and reduces insulin resistance. Based on the research so far, lemon balm appears to have a positive influence on blood sugar. [8]

9. Protects Brain Cells

Beyond the positive effect on memory, thinking, and calmness, research suggests lemon balm protects the physical brain from damage. Eugenol neutralizes free radicals before they can attack brain cells. [9] Rosmarinic acid, another key compound in lemon balm, has shown promise in the treatment of stroke victims. Research with animal models shows that given shortly after a stroke, lemon balm appears to protect areas of the brain against damage. [10]

One Final Thought

Lemon balm can be taken as a tea or as a supplement. The most potent comes from its extracted form. Whether you choose to take lemon balm as a tea or in a supplement, make sure to check the quality of your source. For the best effect, it should be organic.

GOT MY ANSWER!!!!

LEMON BALM TEA will be the BEVERAGE served for the coming SUMMER SEASON!

ELLIE BUST

MY New BUST.

I have given HER the name of ELLIE.If you are a REGULAR READER here You know

WHY .

A BIG THANK YOU for ALL who donated to the cause or BID on the CHANEL handbag!!

ALS

BE GONE!

Yellow PUFF

Rose called CHARLOTTE.

Fainting & SWAYING

FAINTING and SWAYING……….

Perhaps I should PLUCK HER!I find it VERY hard to cut my roses and bring them indoors.I MUST get OVER this FEAR!

They seem to last SO much longer in the GARDEN.I find it HARD to SNIP.

Please CONVINCE ME of cutting them!

I need some COUNSELING here!

ABUTILION

The Humming Birds adore this ABUTILON plant.We lost one last year from the drought and have to start ANEW.

My FINAL SHARE today is of this LADY with a TATOO.

Have you ever ASKED someone why they got a TATOO?

I have not as I am deeply ROOTED AGAINST THEM.

I know they have been the FASHION for how many years now?

AT least TEN……….EUROPE STARTED the WHOLE MOVEMENT!

These young girls with their arms covered………..in INK.

and THE COLORS Are NOT even BECOMING!

I feel for their MOTHER’s!

Would YOU be so BOLD?

Her choice of TOP is INTERESTING TOO……is it to SHARE the BIRD in FLIGHT?

Does she like HER SHOULDERS as one of her many ASSETS?

I do like HER short HAIR.I think it is VERY becoming on HER.

What YOU canNOT see are the FAKE EYELASHES.

That’s a TREND TODAY…….have you PAR~TAKEN?

What I want to know from some of YOU who HAVE indulged in the FAKE LASHES……..is do you realize WE all look at YOU and the FIRST thing that enters OUR mind is FAKE LASHES.

HOW CAN SHE SEE?

Does SHE not realize WE all KNOW they are FAKE?

Is that OKAY with YOU?

If YOU invested $$ to look EXTRA PRETTY do YOU want the WORLD to know YOU DID IT?

Shoulder LOVEI think she is a very attractive woman.

I would have put a LARGER Neckpiece on her neck.

Or

COLORFUL EARRINGS.

That DEAR READERS is all I have to share with YOU today!

MAY, is fast approaching and I have SOME VERY EXCITING things to SHARE with YOU!

A TRIP.

A BOOK SIGNING.

And perhaps a HOUSEGUEST!!!

STAY tuned for MORE

  CONTESSA CHATTER CONTINUES………………XO

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  • couldashouldawoulda9
    · Reply

    May 2, 2016 at 12:00 AM

    It is very hard to gauge a pig’s weight as a baby – you guys are kind but many get overwhelmed by the surprise size don’t they? But may all animals live like they do in your family’s care.

    I normally only had a yellow climber and a stubborn ox blood red rose but I added a few pinks and a deep purple so I hope they bloom. I always have lavender bc the bees love them. Salvias too. Is it the purple I wonder?
    I have a thing for lashes and even did those fake semi permanent lashes once until my real lashes fell out with them, But it was addictive to wake up like bam!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:49 AM

      Did your REAL LASHES GROW BACK?
      What is the name of your YELLOW CLIMBER?Maybe thats the one I cannot recall that I have TOO!
      I have no idea about the color PURPLE…………..Maybe!I do have some purple that self seeded it’s self……………..PENNY ROYAL which is like a carpet of MINT!The flower is VERY short lived therefore, it GOT TO STAY!Never mind the fragrance is INTOXICATING when you walk on it!
      Thanks for the visit!
      XX

  • Bess
    · Reply

    April 30, 2016 at 3:34 PM

    Too funny. All I can say about the “lady” with the tattoo, etc, is that she must not have a best friend to tell her that it is time to embrace age gracefully. Nothing worse than a mature gal trying to look like a teenager.
    And Banksy said to tell you this is just “baby weight”, it will come off in the years to come! I also have a large pot of lemon balm in my little flower garden, having to pot it so it won’t take over.
    Enjoyed your blog post!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:45 AM

      BESS, thats right……..it does TAKE OVER!
      YOU are SO spot on……..BABY WEIGHT!!!!!!!
      SO, what is my recent SURGE of weight GAIN called?!!
      THANK YOU!
      XX

  • Lisa
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 4:04 PM

    Contessa, you are a true Artsy Cousin. And I would so love to see your garden one of these days.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:43 AM

      I need to see the LINK where you CREATED ALL these characters!!!!!!!
      ANY TIME…….and I do mean that!Happy to make you some Lemon Balm ice tea and VISIT!
      XX

  • Catherine
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 2:44 PM

    Cheers! I’ll join you in the lemon balm tea 😉
    Your posts are always so warm and entertaining and as for Banksy…Contessa, he should have a blog of his own…I adore him!

    Happy Weekend Gorgeous Lady xx

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:41 AM

      HAPPY WEEK TO YOU BELLA………………..
      HE SHOULD!I shall SUGGEST THAT Tonight when they ALL come for DINNER!
      XX

  • Heather in Arles
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 2:19 PM

    Oh my goodness! Look at all of these comments!!! And they are all so loving of YOU my wonderful friend. I love all of the joy in this post – much needed right now and it is infectious! And there is so, so much beauty too. I love it all…and can almost smell the lemon balm… 😉

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:40 AM

      SHALL I SHIP you some for your garden?That probably would be a NO NO!!!
      Now, about those driving lessons…………………!!
      XX

  • Sheila Harrington-Hughes
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 11:31 AM

    OOOH, OOOH. OOOH! I can see visions of lemon balm tea in individual mason jars lined up on my deck railing, just waiting for the addition of ice and a thin lemon curl! My hammock, my book and my coziest throw – this is a summertime treat! I can also see experimenting with a recipe for lemon balm sorbet and lemon balm added to fish fillets wrapped in foil pouches and cooked on the grill. Maybe also a little lemon balm in melted butter to brush over corn on the cob. . .? What a wonderful Pandora’s box of delights you have opened for us all. Thank you. Keep writing. Even though I rarely post, I always read your lovely essays.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:38 AM

      LOVE the idea in the fish pouches!!!
      SHELIA,we have ALL SUMMER to EXPERIMENT!!I have enough LEMON BALM to share with my TOWN!
      I promise to keep on POUNDING out the keys and hopefully make YOU SMILE from time to time!
      Thanks for leaving me a message……..they keep me going!!
      XX

  • cherie
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 11:26 AM

    123!!! Could his Grandmama Contessa be giving him too many treats?? Is he done growing? Ok, on to your roses and your garden. I am envious of your green thumb, gardening doesn’t come easily to me, but I love a beautiful garden. The yellow roses are beautiful. I do like to limit my colors to two too. Purple and blues are my tones. And, I rarely wear either color, so strange. Always inspired by your posts Elizabeth.

    XO cherie
    http://www.stylenudge.com
    STYLE NUDGE

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:34 AM

      I doNOT See Him enough to be giving HIM TOO MANY TREATS!
      Believe Me………he is a DOLL!
      XO

  • sunday hendrickson
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 11:02 AM

    Dear Contessa, your postings always bring such a smile to my face — graze for that!
    I especially love how you single out people and decide what you would change about them like the jewelry and eyelashes on this gal. I do that with rooms — cannot sit in a restaurant without reimagining what kind of chairs they should have and what window treatments would enhance …why can’t they see that? I do think you should go find that lady again, tap her on the shoulder and tell her… Amore amore…missing you!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      May 2, 2016 at 7:32 AM

      GRAZIE A TE!
      GOOD TO HEAR from YOU!
      I would NOT know how to find this LADY if I could!
      MISSION ACCOMPLISHED if I bring SMILES!!!!!!
      XX

  • Loreen
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 6:56 AM

    Love, Love seeing your garden…and Ellie too!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 8:08 AM

      MORE GARDEN TO COME ………..it still is getting READY for its GRAND PERFORMANCE!!!
      XX

  • Tara Dillard
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 5:54 AM

    We could have carried that sofa into the coop. Love the idea.

    Would have been on magazine covers.

    If I’d seen your sofa on the street, I would have put it in my coop, shot it, got magazine cover, then we have champagne with your Beloved….

    Garden & Be Well, XOT

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 8:07 AM

      YES. You and I are on the SAME PAGE once AGAIN!
      I am GARDENING and BEING SUPER WELL!!!
      EVERYTHING IS POPPING UP!!!
      XX

  • Mithra Ballesteros
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 5:39 AM

    Such chatter! I wish I lived next door to you. I agree with your observations about tattoos and false eyelashes. I would certainly get a tattoo if they came in vibrant colors that could be blended and that never faded. My two older boys have them and it was a controversy in our family. Anyway, such a fun read!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 8:06 AM

      I would IMAGINE A LOT of our kids have them as it was the THING TO DO!WE STILL LOVE THEM………..XX

  • Angela Muller
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 5:00 AM

    Wow, Contessa…what a post. Where to begin! I love, love, love, roses…all kinds…climbers, shrub roses, hybrid…etc. Thanks so much for the information on lemon balm! As for friends…I, too, had a close friend “dump” me. I will admit it hurt terribly, but when she explained why, I realized it had more to do with her than me, and as I reflected on her other relationships, I soon came to see she was a serial “dumper”. A friendship that requires one to constantly walk on egg shells is not worth the keeping! Love you, your style, your love of life…and your enormous heart!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 8:05 AM

      UN BACIO!
      (That means a KISS!)
      YES, I was the ONE doing ALL the CALLING and PLANNING and HELPING.
      MY FRIEND NEVER told me WHY………maybe if I had known WHY I would of had CLOSURE.
      I did send her a CHRISTMAS CARD two years ago and she sent one back!But there was no lets meet up or CATCH UP.SO,I took that as another SIGN.I walked that CARD to the TRASH outside the house and that was THAT!
      TRA ..LA!OVER…………XX

  • Amie
    · Reply

    April 29, 2016 at 3:17 AM

    One other note on lemon balm I don’t see mentioned, bees! Our little pollinator buddies love them. I live in Nebraska, on the tundra, and my lemon balm does good but doesn’t spread too much. I love it.
    Eye lashes. I would not do, but if it works for you ok. Only thing is, like you mentioned, they sort of are obvious. And, when they go south and look bad, they look really bad. I don’t see many here.
    Tattoos. Many people have deep feelings about their tattoos, they represent a milestone, or family or loved one. I am a nurse and believe me when I say I have seen my share on every conceivable spot on a human body and can tell you no, the tattoo does not age well on the skin. I do not have any. I have never seen one on someone and said to myself, ” oh that’s so cool, I need to go get a tattoo”
    My influence must of worked on my younger son who is 27 and no tattoo. My older son, 29, has 2. One is his old girlfriend’s name in a heart on his chest. they had a baby my wonderful grandson and then she dumped my son. So, this tattoo is a big regret.
    At work our dress code states no tattoos are to be visible, but that rule has relaxed over the years.
    If you have one, that is ok. It is not for me.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 8:00 AM

      AMIE……..our SONS are of similar AGE!Mine are 26 and 28.I BARKED for YEARS NO TATTS and NO PIERCINGS!The piercings happened but that was a phase………..then when I thought WE had made the HURDLE the child who is MORE LIKE ME had a TATTOO done.
      Have you noticed now even the actors are sporting TATTS where before they would have covered them up!It has become a VERY RELAXED accessory!!
      THANK YOU for YOUR COMMENT…….GOOD TO KNOW the TATTOO doesNOT AGE WELL on the SKIN!!!
      XX

  • Linda
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 10:35 PM

    Oh My, your roses are to die for!! The pig is a joy, wish we could have one. The false eyelashes, well, I just love them!! I wear them when I dress up, it’s fun!!
    Loved your post today, enjoy your family, gardens and piggys!!
    xo

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 7:53 AM

      THANKS LINDA……………..maybe I need to TRY the LASHES!!!I will ENJOY ALL OF THE ABOVE!THANKS for your comment!XX

  • Sandra Sallin
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 10:30 PM

    What is there about Cheerios that little kids and piggies love them? Your roses are outstanding and I love your Ellie. You truly take me to another place when you blog. So much and mysterious. I need that Lemon Balm tea now! Oh that lounge would have looked great with chickens all over it. Love your world.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 7:51 AM

      CHEERIOS were my FAVORITE TOO as a KID!Would eat them NOW if I did not have this GLUTEN problem.As for that LOUNGE………..it is a GONER to the LAND FILL.Maybe some WILD BIRDS will find and PERCH!I canNOT WIN every battle with the ITALIAN……….I must let him have his way ONCE in awhile!!XX

  • Pat
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 10:17 PM

    BANKSY!!!! That little piggy went to the market and came home to eat all the goodies!

    I’ve never had lemon balm tea, but I love lemon verbena tea.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 29, 2016 at 7:46 AM

      If this is THE PAT I think it is WE shall INDULGE in MY GARDEN!
      XX

  • Kathy L
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 7:59 PM

    For a special occasion, fake eyelashes really make an impact, especially if a person has light and/or thin natural lashes!
    What’s prettier than roses?? My mom’s favorite are yellow roses. She would be in heaven in your garden.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 8:21 PM

      DOES SHE KNOW CASINO?THE FRAGRANCE and the ROSE are a STUNNER……..
      SAINT PATRICK is a STURDY FELLA………..not much FRAGRANCE BUT HE LASTS FOREVER!!
      OKAY< Thanks for the TIP!!! XX

  • LostRoses
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 5:50 PM

    You’ve made me long for lemon. I have no lemon balm but I bought lemonade this week in hopes of encouraging warm summery days. Enjoying it now with a blanket over my shoulders and snow falling outside. We are weeks away from the first rose blooms but I don’t cut mine either. The last few years I have been battling the Japanese beetles for them. I never thought those hateful (but beautiful) creatures would come to Colorado. Sad.

    Oh yes, Mayday! I’m retired but I’m sure my former co-workers miss me on that day as I would arrive with bundles of flowers to give to each of them! Your wild garden is heavenly, just my style. Though I have no chickens (or a visiting pig). No tattoos either though I have a darling niece who is “the tattooed lady.” She does own a tattoo parlor so advertising you know.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 6:24 PM

      YOU are MY KIND of LADY!My BOYS would deliver flowers from our garden on MAY DAY in washed out TOMATO CANS……..ring the doorbell and run away!!!That’s how MY MOTHER taught me…………she grew up in INDIANA.I even made a MAY POLE one year from a plumbing pipe as we were in the midst of a remodel………….somewhere there is a video of THAT!WE MUST MAY DAY OURSELVES THIS YEAR!!!!!!!!!XX

  • Leslie Haws
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 5:47 PM

    I love “Paint Your Wagon” as an adult! Clint is no singer but his looks make one forget his singing. Lee Marvin was the best!
    Re: tatoos….Everytime I see a young woman with a tatoo on her shoulder ….or worse, full tatoo in color around her collar bone…my first thought is her poor Mother AND what about her WEDDING DAY?!!
    Loved all the other topics in your post…won’t elaborate as others have already and better than my comments!
    Is the bust from Atelier de Campagne…think I recognize it. Perfectly named!!!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 6:21 PM

      YES!
      Those GUYS are in your HOOD!!!!!!!
      They had another and they are NEW so more can be OBTAINED!
      EXACTLY, my thoughts…………..but WE are GALs of a CERTAIN AGE!!!!
      Will WE ever change?
      DOUBTFUL.
      Hope you are GOOD!
      XX

  • Catherine
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 5:33 PM

    I want to turn myself into a woman in a Fragonard painting and be placed into your garden. Fragonard’s paintings are like little daydreams and your garden is like a big daydream. I’m so in love with your photos of your flowers!!!
    And that tats. No. I do not have tats. My daughter does not have tats. Rat-a-no-tat-tat!
    But fake lashes. I DO have them and on special occasions I wear them. I love them but Bonaparte does not!
    I love your little piggy. He’s soooooooooooooooo cute!! XOXOXOXO!!!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 6:18 PM

      AS YOU ARE AS WELL……………..SUPER CUTE!
      XX

  • joanne
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 5:30 PM

    Oh my dear, Elizabeth! Your Ellie bust is fantastic and is inspiring me to find one too! What a beautiful and thoughtful gesture to that brave woman we love.
    Tatoos! Don’t get me started (despite my beloved having two small ones from his misspent youth). These young women (and men!) who view their bodies as art canvas (and want us to, too) will perhaps think twice about their decision to ornament their bodies with sayings and images they no longer have a connection to in a decade or two. Try explaining that on the beach to the rude guy that asks you at the swim-up bar. Not to mention, the natural migration of everyone’s skin as we complete this ‘journey’ (which is such a trendy term these days, but it makes me gag – don’t hate), and the reconfiguration – aging process – of their ‘body art’ may indeed become unrecognizable, even to themselves.
    Thank you, dear Contessa, for letting me vent (and grieve).
    xoxo

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 6:16 PM

      YOU are so WELCOME!
      Do you live in CALIFORNIA by CHANCE?If so you can contact Atelier de Campagne…they are on Facebook and Instagram and live near SANTA CRUZ. They had another and can get MORE.These BUSTS come from BELGIUM I do believe!
      XX

  • Susan
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 5:21 PM

    What beautiful roses!!! You have a wonderful green thumb. Roses, for me, were hard to grow. I had no success. Love your lemon balm. So many benefits. I will get some for my garden, if it is deer proof. I will plant it near an entryway and hope the lovely lemon scent will waft into the house. Your grandpig is adorable. He certainly exceeded weight expectations. How much bigger do you expect him to grow? Susan

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 6:11 PM

      I hope NO BIGGER he is a YEAR and a HALF now.His little feet are TINY!
      I do think the LEMON BALM is deer PROOF!Lets google and FIND OUT!
      I hope you LOVE It as I DO!
      XX

  • Lillian Plummer
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 4:35 PM

    Sweet Banksy! How lucky to have such a fabulous granny visit with Cheerios. Love the tiles in son’s house and the wall color.
    Your garden looks divine, white and yellow roses are beautiful together, calming and elegant.
    Can’t see any beauty in Tatts.
    Enjoyed your lovely and full of news post whilst enjoying my breakfast on a tray. Nice start to what is going to be a busy and polluted day in HK xxx

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 5:16 PM

      A VERY CREATIVE person (his landlord) made that house and it is FULL of COLOR!Which I like also…………..
      SOUNDS SO CIVILIZED breakfast on a TRAY!
      ENJOY the DAY……………..I KNOW YOU WILL!!!
      XX

  • Jeane
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 4:16 PM

    Dear Contessa, I bruised(muddled) about 3-4 good sized leaves with about 1/2 tsp sugar in the bottom of my cup. ( I have had bruising experience(don’tcha know) in making Mint Juleps for the Derby-first Saturday in May.)I then poured my hot water in. I gave it about 5 min. to steep. It suited me just fine although you may prefer to strain it. Do you recommend any different method? The only addition I can think of would be a little Bourbon as in the Mint Juleps. But I didn’t go there today…just enjoyed sipping my tea with some of my best buddies on-line!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 5:05 PM

      ME TOO but I did not ADD the sugar!!!!!!!!
      I have NEVER had a MINT JULEP!Must put that on the BUCKET LIST!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Stacie
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 4:01 PM

    Lovely Lady, I never thought I’d get down to the comment spot, past all of your friends’ posts. You are loved. Lemon verbena is the best! I grew it in Lafayette and couldn’t get enough of the sweet aroma! Its hard to believe a little green thing can smell like fruit! It’s the best in a salad or ice tea. Doesn’t take much.

    Im not crazy about fake eyelashes if they are too thick, or too dark for the completion. My Chinese friend looks amazing with them, I think, because she is gorgeous, and she doesn’t cake the mascara onto them. She calls them extensions, so maybe that’s different, and she has them done by a professional. Plus, she wears lipstick and always looks appropriately put together. She’s not all grunge with glamour eyes. I’ve been tempted, because of how good she looks, but now I’m afraid I’ll end up on your blog. ???? Actually, I know you’d just tell me if I looked like tar eyes.

    Confession: I had fake eyelashes once. It was my wedding day (Aug 2003). The makeup lady put two lashes on the corner of each eye. It happened out of knowhere. The lady asked her assistant to run across the street and get some. I’ll send you a photo.

    Miss you and look forward to your next blog.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 5:04 PM

      NOT LEMON VERBENA!!!!!WHICH IS FABULOUS in its self.I had a friend once who made a LEMON VERBENA CAKE!I have had THREE bushes But sadly NEVER made it!
      LEMON BALM……….is completely different!A fatter leaf with a DEFINED LEMON SCENT without rubbing it!Grows to 3 feet in height……..MASSES OF GREENERY!

      DO SEND A PHOTO WITH THE LASHES as a BRIDE!
      YOU are way OVER DUE for a VISIT!!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • the gardeners cottage
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 3:30 PM

    someone once told me that the more i cut my roses, the more they’d bloom. and that’s been true for me. i just cut with reckless abandon and they just bloom and bloom like crazy. my problem is my allergies. the scent of these old roses is so strong that i can’t keep them in the house which makes me crazy! x

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 4:56 PM

      I too have DEVELOPED the ALLERGY problem this YEAR!!!!!!How can ONE be allergic to their GARDEN!I have read and have been TOLD to cut……..BUT IT IS JUST SO HARD FOR ME!!!
      I will TRY this year………….and report back!
      XX

  • Libby
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 3:28 PM

    Loved Paint Your Wagon. Didn’t Clint try to sing? As to the love seat: I’m sure it hurt to dump it. I rather think it would have been charming amongst the chickens. But sometimes we have to purge. I, too, have some lemon balm. It has a refreshing smell. I recently read that hot water with lemon helps detox the liver. So makes sense that lemon balm would have herbal benefits. Wonder if I used it regularly, I could drink more wine. Maybe not!
    That Banksey! A handsome pig, indeed.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 4:42 PM

      IT DOES HELP THE LIVER LIBBY………..LETS LEMON BALM TOGETHER!!!
      YES, HE GOT SHOT DOWN FOR HIS SINGING AS I RECALL………..!!XX

  • Judy
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 3:22 PM

    I had heard that a cut Amaryllis flower lasts longer that the flower left on the plant. When I mentioned this to a florist, she said that was true of many flowers. So roses may be included. I would be inclined to cut one, save one on the bush, so I could enjoy these beauties indoors and out.

    LOVE YOUR BLOG, and the use of CAPITALS is such fun; I can almost hear your voice. KEEP up the GOOD WORK!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 4:40 PM

      I write the WAY I SPEAK!
      I have a HIGH PITCHED Voice…………in fact the FRIEND who DUMPED me her child would make fun of my voice when I called!I also get EXCITED about little MUNDANE things……..Just trying to PUT JOY in my LIFE and OTHERS!

      The roses that are home grown do NOT last VERY long indoors……….BUT I shall try the method mentioned above!I too have had a case of ALLERGIES that might NOT ALLOW me to do so this year!
      TO BE ALLERGIC TO ONES GARDEN is just NOT RIGHT!
      XX

  • Jeane
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 2:59 PM

    Even though you are at least 2-3,000 miles away from me, I feel as though we just chatted like over the fence neighbors, You always inspire me and make me laugh and even giggle at Banksy! I too love animals and love the acceptance you gave Banksy and his father when they appeared at your door. How many Mothers would open their arms to a piggy in their homes? I’m laughing again at the thought.
    Going out now to cut some lemon balm and make tea. Hugs!!!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:11 PM

      WONDERFUL……………….let me know did you let the leaves seep in the hot water and for how long?
      HOW could I NOT LOVE BANKSY!HE WAS THE SIZE OF MY 8.5 shoe when he ARRIVED!!!
      ENJOY the TEA!!!
      HUGS TO YOU!
      XX

  • D. A. Wolf
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 2:40 PM

    Your hodge podge is delightful! And your gardens, divine! (Cheerios? Really?!?!)

    Perhaps we should all pick one day a month for a ‘hodge podge’ and share!

    xo

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:08 PM

      SOUNDS GOOD to ME!
      GO read the PREPPY EMPTY NESTER TODAY………she ALWAYS DOES ONE and they are HYSTERICAL!
      XX

  • contessa
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 2:39 PM

    VIA EMAIL:
    Mr. Banks has grown, but thank goodness, he won’t get much taller. He is such a sweetheart.
    ‘
    Enjoyed the garden pictures. I have Cecile Brunner rose climbers—-wonderful fragrance and very dainty buds.

    Enjoy the summer months ahead.

    Lynda

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:07 PM

      THANK YOU LYNDA I WILL………..SO looking forward to MAY!MAY DAY is one of my favorite DAYS!!!
      XX

  • contessa
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 2:38 PM

    VIA EMAIL:
    Hi there Contessa,

    I am grateful you wrote today. I am so down in the dumps for some reason and you always seem to be so colorful and cheerful it was a great surprise! So thank you!
    Everything is lovely, from your home, your pets, your flowers, YOU! On and on! Again thank you!

    And no I do not have a tattoo, I live in Florida and I wonder why everyone has them also..ghastly at any age. No false eyeglasses either.
    I do love Beauty , elegant, simple or however it comes.
    Everything you do is a beauty so don’t change!

    Blessings and a Sweet Late April to you,

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:06 PM

      THANK YOU AND get OUTSIDE and GO for a walk or CLEAN OUT A DRAWER………start SMALL it will HELP!I too get DOWN IN THE DUMPS!!!
      Put on a SPARKLY PIN!!!!
      XX

  • contessa
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 2:33 PM

    VIA EMAIL:
    Being dumped is the worst!
    I would never dump such an engaging and exuberant friend. I hope we can figure out how to have tea before the end of the year.
    Celeste.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:05 PM

      YES YES YES……….HOW about the week after next DINNER HERE?!I will be in TOUCH!I know I have said that before BUT I WILL……..XO

  • Anita Rivera
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 1:45 PM

    Hello there, DARLIN’! I just love to chatter with you. That PIG! Goodness, he is precious, no matter how much he weighs! And your garden, so private and lush, and Italianesque; it’s the perfect garden! And lemon balm…..what a great herb. Gotta get some of that as tea for the summer nights.

    Well dearest, you have done it again. You’ve shared the elegance of your world in special way to make me smile. CIAO!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:04 PM

      Are you coming back to CARMEL???
      We need to make a plan!!
      XX

  • Vicki
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 1:38 PM

    Do not cut the roses. I hate to see flowers die in the house. Your roses are beautiful as you are.
    I love Banksy. I hope he doesn’t get much bigger! Love seeing all your babies.
    I hate tattoos, too. I think I am a few years older than you and I remember when tattoos on women tagged them as prostitutes! They are disgusting no matter male or female.
    Love the blog and all of your adventures.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:03 PM

      I think that is MY problem TOO……….I associate them with a MOTORCYCLE GROUP from my youth.
      REALLY YOU LOVE THE BLOG?!!!
      THAT is SO GOOD TO HEAR………..THANK YOU!
      XX

  • Cynthia White
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 1:28 PM

    Loved your post today, Contessa! Your yellow roses. . .LOVE! And Lemon Balm, I did not know there were so many uses for it. Now, I want to grow it myself! I’m against tattoos, too, but that doesn’t resonate with my boys. Both have at least 3 (of course, they are adults), and their wives also are tattooed. Such a shame, because they are beautiful girls. At least they’re not showing all the time (the tattoos, that is). It’s a different world! When I was 18, I was finally able to get my ears pierced, and my father said “What are you, a pirate? Next thing, you’ll be getting a tattoo!” Ha-ha!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 3:00 PM

      One of MY SONS has a TATTOO…………………
      THANK GOODNESS it does not show unless he was swimming!IT is on his UPPER THIGH…….I saw it peeking out from some shorts one NIGHT when he went to sit down!
      He knows I AM NOT THRILLED……………….SO LONG PANTS ARE KEY when he visits ME!
      XX
      PS.I remember all too well…….the begging and pleading for PIERCED EARS!

  • Mrs Rose
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 1:06 PM

    Your garden is exquisite. I,too, have a very difficult time cutting my garden roses to bring inside. I actually love planting trees, bushes and plants to honor a special occasion. My flowering crab tree just finished blooming and was planted on my 18th anniversary. It’s huge and so happy 9 years later…me too, happy, and hopefully not too huge! Thanks for sharing!!!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 2:55 PM

      I like planting for an OCCASION as WELL!!!
      AT least I am NOT ALONE On the cutting and bringing indoors!!!
      XX

  • Loree
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 12:01 PM

    Oh your garden is so beautiful! My husband likes yellow flowers. I prefer reds, oranges and pinks. Not sure why but those colours always call out to me.
    Banksy has sure grown. I love the photos of you with him.
    I might have to try that lemon balm tea this summer. Lemon tea is the only type of tea I will drink. I do not like tea but I adore coffee. As for tattoos, well there was a time when I wanted to get a discreet one but it was just a phase and now I am glad that I didn’t get it.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:49 PM

      Sipping Lemon Balm Tea RIGHT NOW!
      Go get a plant and ENJOY!Be careful as it POPS UP everywhere………YOU may not want THE JUNGLE LOOK Like ME!!!!
      GOOD GIRL!!!
      XX

  • SAJ
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 11:06 AM

    Tattoos do not bother me. Though I will not be getting any myself. I just don’t understand. Like of all the things to spend a couple hundred bucks on-why that? I just bought a boatload of blue and white flow ware for Thanksgiving this morning so I don’t feel guilty about it now; thinking how I saved money on tattoos. Thanks 🙂
    Your garden is lovely and brimming with delight.
    Sorry, but I agree with the ITALIAN on the sofa. seems like a health hazard! Perhaps you can find a very ornate concrete bench to fill its would-be spot.
    I love lemon balm.
    I relate to Banksy. I wasn’t supposed to weigh this much either.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:47 PM

      GOT the CONCRETE BENCHES………..CHECK!
      I just made TEA with the leaves………OMG!!DELICIOUS!
      BANKSY, YOU, ME and PREPPY EMPTY NESTER are ALL OVERACHIEVERS……..
      IT IS A~OKAY!
      YOU SCORED BIG TIME!!!!!!!!!!Send me a photo of one little piece of the BLUE & WHITE FLOW WARE!!
      XX

  • Katie Clooney
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 10:09 AM

    My dear CONTESSA… I LOVE the pics of YOU with your DEVOTED pig. Our dear CHOWDAH was supposed to be 50 lbs. but is now over 100 lbs. He’s an OVERACHIEVER just like MOI!! Hope you ENJOY the rest of your WEEK.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:43 PM

      I USED YOUR WORD TODAY!
      I meant to mention YOU and YOUR HODGEPODGE!
      OVERACHIEVER…………………I may have to COPY YOU again!!!!
      Lately, I have been ACHIEVING Greatness!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Taste of France
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 9:44 AM

    Such gorgeous flowers. My roses are full of buds, but no blooms yet. They’re on the north side of the house. They were a wedding present from my co-workers–a really nice idea.
    I read that Kim Kardashian, of all people, explained that she didn’t have a tattoo because “you don’t put bumper stickers on a Rolls-Royce.”

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:39 PM

      RIGHT!
      TO both………what a GREAT GIFT IDEA!!!YOU will have those roses FOREVER!
      As for KIM and HER quote!!!!!!!!!!!HOW TRUE!!!
      YOU made ME CHUCKLE!
      Merci………..XX

  • classic•casual•home
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 9:41 AM

    That is hysterical about the pig’s weight…it must be all muscle…that’s what my sister says about her overweight dog 🙂

    I had the individual lashes applied once…and it looked natural and I loved it. But it was too hard to maintain so I stick with good mascara. This post was a joy.
    Mary Ann

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:37 PM

      I LIKE YOUR SISTER!
      Thats what I have been saying about MY BODY!I have gained 20 plus pounds this YEAR and I do go to Pilates OFTEN.I am trying to tell myself MUSCLE weighs MORE then FAT!
      Good to know about the lashes……….
      A BIG SMILE TO YOU across that BAY BRIDGE!
      XX

  • Lee
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 9:09 AM

    That’s what I weighed after my first child. That pig is a heart stealer.
    Your garden is beautiful… the roses are divine and some friendships are seasonal, I’ve been dumped and I’ve had to dump a couple of toxic people that drug me down and enjoyed their misery way too much. I got over it and hope they did as well. Life renewing itself just like your roses… and I would have put that chair in my chicken coop too… I don’t always get my way either.
    I love false eyelashes… but never wear them… no knack for applying them… and now they have lash extensions that are beautiful… not for me too much trouble… fiber mascara works well enough. I think the false lashes are like plastic pearls mixed with real ones or gold toned jewelry mixed with real gold… more is more and I don’t usually think about them being fake… now over done breast are another topic altogether.
    Not a lover of tattoos… I don’t like reading peoples pictures and then they turn and look at you with glaring eyes like “what are you staring at” but isn’t that what they want… thus the off the shoulder, black spandex, made for women much younger, look at my tattoo shirt. I read there are stories behind tattoos and you are suppose to inquire about them to be polite… but frankly I don’t care. Not a conversation I want to be involved in.
    Lemon balm is now on my list of things to purchase!
    Thank you Elizabeth for a beautiful post.

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:34 PM

      BEWARE IT SPREADS JUST LIKE OUR BODIES AFTER AGE 50!!!!!!!!!!!!!!The LEMON BALM is what I am referencing HERE!
      GUESS what?
      I am sitting here with MY GRAND DOGS two of the THREE today babysitting and I made some LEMON BALM TEA!
      OH MY GOODNESS…………it’s DELICIOUS!Maybe I can now down MORE WATER this way on a daily basis!
      THANK YOU for your comment…………and YOUR LOVE for MY GRAND PIGGY!!!
      XX

  • Fran
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 9:09 AM

    Cara Contessa, I could read your “chatter” ALL DAY! You make me laugh SO MUCH! Any hodge podge that includes Theodore and a mention of Clint Eastwood sets me up for a FANTASTIC DAY! Your gardens are GORGE! I think heaven looks like that ( don’t want to know so soon though!). Icing on this perfect cake of yours is the tatted lady – your descriptions and what you would do for her got me rolling off my chair! Does she know she is all over the internet now?! I have to agree that tatoos need new colors – the ones they use are so blech! Too inky and dark tones – would never get one myself. I once saw an elderly lady with a tatoo of what I thought was a huge pumpkin – turns out it was an orange- yikes! XX

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:28 PM

      SO,you did inquire or YOU put your SPECTACLES ON??!!
      I suppose WE should inquire because to SO many it is ART……………….
      I shall put that on MY LIST of things to DO!
      SO, HAPPY I MADE YOU START THE DAY FANTASTICALLY!!!
      I mean WELL……..and I HOPE I make a FEW of YOU LAUGH as WELL!!
      XX
      PS.No she does NOT!It is a SMALL WORLD…………maybe someone will pass on to HER!Wouldn’t that be a HOOT!

  • Charlotte Des Fleurs
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 8:54 AM

    Hello Contessa,

    Lovely to see your garden and all the wonderful roses. Many great places to buy roses in your area! I loved Rayford Reddell’s Garden Valley Ranch up in Petaluma. Sadly, his partner died and he grew too old to run it himself.

    About roses…(I was a florist at one time)…some are not meant to be cut. This applies primarily to climbing roses because they have “weak necks”. They are bred to droop down so you can enjoy the blossoms! For other roses with naturally upright stems (for example teas, grandifloras and hybrid teas), cut as early in the morning as possible while they are still fairly well
    hydrated. Choose blooms that are still fairly tight. (You can tell that the blooms are getting ready to open when the fringe little green petals at the bottom of the blossom fold down.)

    Cut about 1/4″ off the bottom and plunge into lukewarm water with a few drops of bleach (or Clorox Clean-up) and a teaspoon of corn syrup. Water should be all the way up to the just below the bottom of the blossom. If you have space in your fridge, put them in there. If not, put them in the coolest part of the house. This is what florists call “conditioning”. It hydrates the rose completely. I have a little $79 fridge that I got from Walmart where I condition my flowers. The next day, re-cut stems to length desired. Remove any leaves that will be below water level and put into fresh water with a little bleach and some corn syrup. They should last up to a week.

    Enjoy!

    Smiles from Charlotte Des Fleurs

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:19 PM

      THANK YOU SO MUCH for the LESSON!
      I shall TRY and GO out there in a moment and CUT………OPPS NO, NO, NO!It is just after noon so is the wrong TIME!I shall wait for the morning DEW.
      GOT BLEACH & CORN SYRUP!!
      SO READY TO ROLL…………..thanks AGAIN!
      XX

  • RebeccaNYC
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 8:45 AM

    OH! and false eyelashes….there is now a technique and fad here to have an aesthetician apply false lashes for you lash by lash. They last a month and look really natural. (The fake stick on ones are things of the past.) No more mascara. I have not indulged because they are pricey and I am really a no fuss kind of girl. But no judgement here about any kind of cosmetic that anyone uses to make them selves feel pretty. That goes for tattoos too. Sometimes they have deep meaning…like Ellie’s and Gracie’s matching tattoos. I don’t have one, and never will, but to each his own!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 8:57 AM

      YES, I do believe the lashes were the ones you spoke of.They are ALL the RAGE here as well.
      I agree whatever makes YOU HAPPY!
      I did not know about Ellie’s and Gracie’s Tattoos………..that MUST BE IN THE BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!
      Mine still hasNOT ARRIVED!
      TO EACH HIS OWN.
      XX

  • RebeccaNYC
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 8:41 AM

    Love your chatty post, just like what a visit with you might be like? I have to say I am not a fan of pigs in houses…but your grandpig seems well loved and happy, and I know they are smart smart smart animals!

    The roses are lovely, we used to have a huge rambling rose hedge when I was growing up and I would pick bouquets to my hearts desire. I just loved those wild roses!

    and poo on the friend who dumped you. “good riddance to bad rubbish” as my mother would have said.

    Love the idea of lemon balm tea! As a woman of a certain age, I could certainly benefit from several of it’s attributes!!

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 8:51 AM

      I UNDERSTAND about the PIG in the HOUSE BUT I am ONE of those strange ONE’s that ABSOLUTELY would make MY house a BARN if I could!Even with the ANTIQUES and STUFF……………
      I will let YOU know how the TEA turns OUT!!
      Maybe I can package and send a NEW VENTURE for this CONTESSA!!!
      XX

  • Shireen
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 8:13 AM

    Love the pics of you and Banksy! And of Theodore and his love seat! So sorry Giampy tossed the seat! Was that the one from the show? I liked that too…wish I could have saved it! Am still in love with the chaise I purchased from you! Xoxo Shireen
    P.S. Love this whole post: rose pictures, nail polish (color please?), lemon balm info…not in love with tattoos, but I do like the makeover tips… This could be a whole new series called ‘making over strangers we come across in our travels!’

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 8:42 AM

      I was the one who actually dragged it to the STREET for the GARBAGE pick up!IT hurt MORE when I heard the GARBAGE truck was HERE!
      Color, is ALWAYS a DARK brown for me on the nails……..it’s an OPI and I cannot recall will try to write down and remember for YOU!
      Yes, I have been suggested in the past to do a series on that……….AFRAID I might offend which I do not mean to do in the LEAST.Just asking WHY’s and DO YOU DO will help me understand MAYBE a little bit MORE.I guess it is a sign of my AGE!
      This GAL needed BIGGER and BOULDER to carry the SHOULDERS!
      That is MY VIEW.
      XX

    • Charlotte Des Fleurs
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 9:15 AM

      Hi Contessa, I agree with your assessment of the Gal with Big Shoulders. Quite a contradiction with the false eyelashes and tattoo! But she definitely wants to be feminine. You should track her down and give her one of your fabulous, chunky necklace/chokers. Nothing with pearls or diamonds because she is what Lisa from AMID PRIVILEGE calls “The Artsy Cousin”. Maybe something with dark metal rings, bits of tumbled rock and a crystal skull or two. I would have to think about this a lot because I am what Lisa calls “The Sturdy Gal” and Artsy is not my style.

      Smiles from Charlotte Des Fleurs

  • Theress Viray
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 8:10 AM

    Your new set rose is absolutely beautiful. ALL THOSE PETALS!!!
    thank you for sharing. My current view at the moment is a crowded BART train and two filthy bums sleeping off who knows what taking up twice the seats they need while hard working ( and fine smelling ) commuters have to stand.
    But THAT is why we garden and surround ourselves with beauty and beautiful people , like yourself, so that when our world is temporarily not lovely, we can recall the beauty to get us through.
    Thank you for getting me through this BART ride. If only your posts were scratch and SNIFF. ..alas
    Xoxo

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 8:37 AM

      OH, MY………………..SORRY!
      I shall WORK on the SCRATCH and SNIFF BIT!!!!!!!
      Everything is moving SO fast in this TECHY world I bet that IDEA is NOT far OFF!Now, to get the PATENT in YOUR NAME THERESS……………that would be GRAND!XO

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 12:11 PM

      I know LISA!
      I wonder what category I fall into!!!!!!!!!!!
      DO you know CHARLOTTE DES FLEURS?
      DO tell as I and the REST of my READERS will MOST likely get a good CHUCKLE!

    • Charlotte Des Fleurs
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 2:02 PM

      Hello Contessa, Lisa would have the last word on this, but based on the descriptions on the blog, I would say “Grande Dame”. The Grande Dame is classy, wears lots of jewels (think of the Czarinas), comes from a VERY good family, loves to shop and wears Gucci. Who else would wear a red ballgown in her garden and look great!

      Smiles from Charlotte Des Fleurs

  • stephie
    · Reply

    April 28, 2016 at 7:59 AM

    elizabeth! your garden looks sooooo lovely!!!!!!that table and chair sunken into all that lemon balm – just heavenly!!
    concerning cutting your roses: a friend of mine who has an absolutely gorgeous garden told me once that the more you cut your flowers, the more they will grow back whether this pertains to roses, too, i’m not quite positive, but i certainly would try it out! also, bring some of your lemon balm into the house; it smells good and looks beautiful to have some green inside, too. 🙂

    • contessa
      · Reply

      April 28, 2016 at 8:33 AM

      YES,THAT is SO TRUE even about ROSES!
      SO, what is my PROBLEM……………I want them to be there in the GARDEN as I wander down to the chicken coop or up to the VEGETABLE bins!They do not POP back that quickly………one has to have patience but if one were cutting almost THREE HUNDRED roses back daily there SHOULD NOT BE ANY PROBLEM in always having a VISUAL DISPLAY!
      I will CUT the LEMON BALM………NO problem there as now I have to figure out the BEST way to MAKE TEA!!!!!!!!!!!
      GRAZIE BELLA!
      XO

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