LAST OF SUMMER…….

August 19, 2022 66 Comments

I LOVE THIS PHOTO!

I AM TALKING AWAY……

WHICH ISN’T THE CASE TOO OFTEN!

(ME CHATTY?)

ON PAPER YES!

IN REAL LIFE NO!

KIM ON LEFT IS BARKING OUT ORDERS TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER!

HEIDI IS NEXT TO ME with HER GREAT SMILE!

SHE WHO could not FIND A PINK DRESS!

WHO CARES WHEN THE SWEATER IS FABULOUS!

ME BEING ME SAID ,” I NEVER NOTICED YOU WERE SO BUSTY!”

JULIET ON THE FAR RIGHT WITH A BEAUTIFUL POSE AND FULL OF LIFE!

MY HAND LOOKS LIKE A CLAW!

I JUST NOTICED THAT.

DOESN’T MATTER I STILL LOVE THIS PHOTO!

THEY ARE ALL IN TRADITIONAL SUMMER SANDALS AND HERE I AM WITH VELEVT SLIPPERS FROM VENICE!

BUT THEY MATCHED MY CONTESSA CAFTAN!

I PURCHASED them in THE AIRPORT BEFORE THEY WERE SO IN FASHION!

(YES, I bought ALL THE COLORS THEY HAD!)

ANYTHING VELVET GETS MY VOTE PLUS THEY WERE CHEAP!

WE WERE TOLD TO WEAR PINK AND I FOLLOW ORDERS!

IF YOU SPY A PINK TOTE FURTHER DOWN THAT IS MINE TOO…………I MAYBE WENT TOO FAR!

I SENT THE ITALIAN A PICTURE AND ASKED WHAT HE THOUGHT BEFORE LEAVING.

HIS ANSWER WAS UNDERSTATED AND BEAUTIFUL!!

I CRACKED UP WHEN HE RETURNED THE TEXT KNOWING HE WAS JOKING;

BUT THE WORD UNDERSTATED TOOK ME BY SURPRISE!

ENGLISH IS HIS SECOND LANGUAGE AND I HAVE NEVER HEARD HIM USE THAT WORD BEFORE!

HEIDI PAINTS AND I HAVE MENTIONED HER BEFORE.

SHE HAS DONE ALL MY ANIMAL PORTRAIT’S!

PLUS, A COUPLE OF CORNERS OF MY GARDEN AND HOME!

TO FIND HER COLLECTION OF WORK TAP RIGHT HERE!

HER PRICES ARE EXTREMELY REASONABLE NOR COULD YOU FIND A NICER PERSON!

WE LADIES GOT TOGETHER FOR LUNCH DOWN AT KIM’S OF Northern California STYLE BLOG!

I HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING HER BLOG FOR YEARS!

IT ALL STARTED BY ANOTHER FRIEND TELLING ME;

I WOULD ENJOY THIS BLOG.

AS SHE HAD A PARISIAN THEME SETTING FOR A PARTY!

I SIGNED UP FOR HER BLOG!

TAKE ME TO PARIS ANY DAY!!

YOU ALL MAY ENJOY HER AS WE HAVE ZERO (well not really) IN COMMON EXCEPT TWO SONS EACH!

HER HOME WAS REMODELED BY HER AS THE DECORATOR QUIT NOT EVEN HALF WAY THROUGH THE PROJECT!

IT’S ALL WHITE AND A VERY MODERN LOOK!

REMINDS ME OF PALM SPRINGS.

AS YOU CAN SEE JUST A FEW PHOTOS TO PICK FROM!!!

KIM’S SON WAS HOME FROM COLLEGE AND WAS THE PHOTOGRAPHER.

HE DID AS HE WAS TOLD…………

A VERY PATIENT SON!!

MINE WOULD HAVE WALKED “OFF SET” MUCH SOONER!!

I HAVE DECIDED I SHOULD HAVE BEEN A SET DESIGNER……….

WHAT A BALL I WOULD HAVE HAD BUYING THE STUFF!

HAVE YOU BEEN FOLLOWING SINCE I HAD THE INSTAGRAM LUNCHEONS?

THAT WAS ABOUT FIVE YEARS AGO!

ACTUALLY ONE OF THOSE GALS who came HAD THAT JOB IN REAL LIFE!

THAT WAS HER REAL JOB!

THE PEOPLE YOU CAN MEET IN THIS ODD WORLD OF PHOTO SNAPPING AND WRITING ABOUT ONES SELF!

REMEMBER WHEN PEOPLE HATED HAVING THEIR PHOTOS TAKEN?

NOT THAT LONG AGO!

SPEAKING OF PHOTOS BRINGS ME TO CELL PHONES AND IF YOU ARE LIKE ME YOU HOLD IT IN YOUR LEFT HAND.

WELL,MY MIDDLE FINGER IS IN PAIN MOST OF THE TIME!

AT FIRST I THOUGHT I DAMAGED A NERVE OR TENDON BY SWATTING THE PUPPY BETTY!

SHE LIKES TO BITE MY FEET AS I WALK!

NOT FUN AT ALL!

HOWEVER, ITS BEEN AT LEAST THREE MONTHS AND NOT GETTING BETTER.

AMAZING HOW MUCH I USE THAT FINGER!

WASHING POTS,BLINKER ON CAR, ETC…….

IS THIS THE BEGINNING OF ARTHRITIS CAN ANYONE TELL ME?

AS I HAVE TO PEEL MY FINGERS BACK (ALL OF THEM ON LEFT HAND) WHEN I WAKE UP.

I did have it x-rayed and they say it’s FINE!

MOST OF YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I TRUST MY DOCTORS!

IT HAS TAKEN SIX YEARS COME THE 27TH OF THIS MONTH TO GET A DIAGNOSIS!

I’M LOOKING A BIT WIPED OUT HERE…………..

AS MOST OF YOU KNOW I GET TIRED VERY EASILY.

I RECEIVED MORE TEST RESULTS A FEW MINUTES AGO!

SEEMS I HAVE HAD A BROKEN RIB!

THAT COULD EXPLAIN WHY SLEEPING ON THE LEFT SIDE HURT A LOT……

AND A NEW NODULAR DENSITY IN MY LEFT LOWER LOBE!

PLUS THE PATCHY LUNG ZONES!

which is caused from the MAC.

back to lipstick we go……..

I WAS TRYING OUT ANOTHER DARK LIPSTICK.

PINK!

TO KEEP UP WITH MY LAST POST!

I THINK IT DID OKAY STAYING BETWEEN THE LINES?

THE GIRLS ARE TOO POLITE TO TELL ME!

WAS I BLEEDING IN THE CERVICES LADIES?

KIM WAS ASKING ABOUT MY LUCITE BRACELETS.

I FOUND THEM IN VINTAGE SHOPS AWHILE BACK when I was shopping!

THEY WERE “GIFT WITH PURCHASE”

FROM THE ESTEE LAUDER COUNTERS BACK IN THE DAY.

WHEN WE WERE TODDLERS!

TOTALLY OFF SUBJECT,

BUT

ARE YOUR BROWN SPOTS GETTING BIGGER WITH AGE?

THIS ONE ON MY ARM STARTED OUT AS A FRECKLE!

I HAVE HAD MOST OF MY LIFE AS I CAN RECALL FROM MY TEEN YEARS………..

ALL OF A SUDDEN IT HAS MORPHED!

AT LEAST IT’S A HEART SHAPE WHEN I LOOK AT IT!

LOT’S MORE ARE APPEARING ON MY LEGS NOW………

ALONG WITH THE VARICOSE VEINS AND BRUISES MISTER BANKSY GIVES ME WITH HIS SNOUT.

REMINDING ME HE IS BELOW AND TO NOT FORGET HIM!

DID YOU KNOW PIGS CANNOT SEE TO THE SKY AS THEY CAN NOT BEND THEIR NECKS BACK?

THEY ALSO LIVE FOR 20 PLUS YEARS OR MORE!

THINK I HAVE TOLD YOU THAT BEFORE!

A VERY CLEAN ANIMAL AS WELL……..

THIS IS MY CHAUFFEUR JULIET OF MAKE MINE A SPRITZER.

SHE LIVES CLOSE BY AND ALWAYS OFFERS TO DRIVE ME!

SHE REFERS TO THIS SITUATION AS PICKING UP MISS DAISY!

SHE LIKES BLUE!

HER DRESS HAD BITS OF PINK IN IT;

SO SHE DIDNOT FLUNK THE ASSIGNED PARTY COLOR BY KIM!

~PINK~

SHE ACED THE CHARTRUDIERE PLATTERS………..

GOOD GOD I COULD HAVE DEVOURED EVERY SINGLE BIT!

WELL I DID !

THE ASSEMBLY LINE……………WENT AWFULLY FAST!

BELOW YOU HAVE ONE BLOGGER WHO DOES NOT BEAT AROUD THE BUSH ABOUT ANYTHING……………..

ONE PAINTER WHO STARTED PAINTING LATE IN LIFE!

I KNOW SHE DOES NOT LOOK MUCH OLDER THAN 30 BUT SHE IS OLDER THAN ME!

(SHE WALKS AND DOES YOGA!)

ALSO ZERO GLUTEN.

LET’S HOPE THAT IS THE KEY (NO GLUTEN) AS I DO NOT DO THE OTHER TWO!

BAD ME!

ANOTHER BLOGGER IN PINK WHO NEVER SLEEPS AS SHE IS SO BUSY PUTTING THOSE BLOG POSTS OUT AND KEEPING UP ON WORLD AFFAIRS.

SHE FITS TENNIS IN TWICE A WEEK!!

I AM PEE GREEN WITH ENVY AS I JUST WALKED THE NURSERY AND AM EXHAUSTED!

I HATE WALKING.

(IT WAS 90 DEGREES!)

I THINK I TOLD YOU ALL THAT ALREADY IN ANOHER POST!

IAM SORRY IF I AM REPEATING MYSELF.

DID I MENTION MY MEMORY IS GOING………….

AND NOT FROM OLD AGE!

WE SHALL SAVE THAT FOR ANOTHER POST!!

SO LONG FROM THESE CALIFORNIA WOMEN………….WHO ARE A BUNCH OF FABULOUS FUN GIRLS!

JUST IN CASE YOU MISSED THAT!!!!

XXX

PS.MISS DAISY HOPPING INTO THE CAR TO KIM’S HOUSE!

IT’S ONLY TWO SECONDS!

CLICK ON CONTESSA!

XXX

Contessa

66 Comments

Leave your reply.

Martha Foss
· Reply

September 18, 2022 at 6:23 AM

As usual I think you gals all looked FAB! What a great time together. Arthritis has hit me as well- my neck- mostly … all well it bears the alternative. Thanks for the great post!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 19, 2022 at 10:00 AM
  
  THE NECK in your line of work seems to be common I know two others who suffered from that.
  The bending and serving………those muscles would be PREPARED!
  Looks like you are having a wonderful trip………XXX
Barbara at Mantel and Table
· Reply

September 12, 2022 at 2:37 PM

You are so darling! I love the 2 second video! SO sorry about your rib and all the other stuff that seems to happen more and more the older we get. At least you’re still lovely and fun, and obviously as much of a joy to be around as you are to read! That looked like a wonderful gathering. Isn’t it so fun to hang out with other bloggers? And leave it to a husband to find the humor in these sorts of things! ? Take care, and thanks for sharing another bit of your fun life with us!
Candace Wilson Culp
· Reply

August 25, 2022 at 4:54 PM

Hello dearest Elizabeth,
I am so envious that you all live up there and I live down here and cannot do the long drive anymore…too tiring. Rather fly, rent a car and spend time having fun with you and Banksy and Betty and Theodore.
First, I was thinking that Banksy must be able to see the sky in the distance, just not above him…right? And, I knew they were clean, it’s only jerks who keep them in filth. He lives like a king with you.
All of you look divine, but you especially keep getting better and better. Bless you even with the health things…keep fighting and yes, do walk when it’s cooler. Is Betty too strong for you? can you and the Italian walk her together?
I, too, have those silly sun spots, and bruises from meds…yikes. Long sleeves are my answer.
I don’t blog,or paint, or do tutorials on line. All of you make me feel lazy, but I’m working on memoir and short pieces. That, and taking care of 15 yr. old doggie with dementia, funny young cat and a 12 yr. old Havanese who acts like 3, I bet she lives to 20.
Keep on enjoying your precious life as Mary Oliver said.
Candace
Hilda Smith
· Reply

August 24, 2022 at 7:18 AM

Oh dear.. a broken rib. And yes I have brown spots too and thread veins….. but hey… I can cover with fake tan or make up. What fabulous colourful friends you have xx
judith
· Reply

August 23, 2022 at 6:20 PM

Dear Contessa,

At the risk of repeating what everyone else said, what a fun afternoon! I loved seeing what everyone was wearing, getting a glimpse of Kim’s “resort,” looking at Heidi’s paintings, and the film clip and culinary delights by your chauffer. As to the spot on your arm – looks like a Seborrheic keratosis. These are I easily removed by the dermatologist. I had several frozen off the last time I was there. Easy! As to the finger, my diagnosis is that it is from overuse. Stop holding the phone with that hand, swat Betty with the other hand, and turn on the blinker with your index finger. If it can rest, it will get better. See me for all of your medical needs, hahahaha. I will write more soon.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 24, 2022 at 8:05 AM
  
  YES DOING ALL THAT YOU HAVE MENTIONED HERE WITH FINGER……….BUT ITS AMAZING HOW MUCH ONE USES IT!!
  IT JUST GETS INTO THE ACTION EVEN IF YOU ARE TRYING NOT TOO!
  AS FAR AS DERMATOLOGIST………I BET SHE WOULD BUT WITH MY LOVELY ;SO WITH IT HEALTH INSURANCE ONE HAS TO GO THROUGH MD FIRST! IT WILL TAKE A FEW MONTHS TO GET AN APPOINTMENT WITH HIM.
  THEY THEN DECIDE IF YOU NEED A SKIN DOC!!TAKE PHOTOS AND SEND OFF…………
  NOW AS TO YOUR EXPERTISE IN SKIN CARE………I HAVE THESE SMALL DRY PATCHES ON MY LEGS?
  ON MY RIBCAGE ON THE SIDE IS ANOTHER TYPE GETTING DARKER AND LARGER AS TIME GOES ON……….WHAT IS THAT?FEELS LIKE A SCAB!
  HEIDI PAINTED WINSTON BUT HE IS MISSING FROM HER PORTFOLIO!!THE BOXER IS MY GRAND DOG WHO JUST PASSED!I MUST TELL HER TO POST SIR WINSTON!!!MY FRIENDS JUST ADORE IT WHEN I TELL THEM WHAT TO DO!!!!!!!
  LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR UPDATE PEN PAL!!
  XXX
D. A. Squires
· Reply

August 23, 2022 at 10:40 AM

Gorgeous, talented women… gorgeous colors… pink with envy I am : ) It is one of the best things about the internet.–making new friends, even if you never meet in person. It’s hard to meet and make new friends in a neighborhood, so to be able to segue from the virtual world to the real is truly wonderful. Loved this post… it was such fun to tag along!! Hope the rib, finger etc. are getting better…my left side seems to be falling apart lately. The body is so complex and mysterious!! XO PS Devyn adored her caftan!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 24, 2022 at 7:56 AM
  
  SO SO HAPPY DEVYN LOVED HER CAFTAN!!!
  OF COURSE I WILL NEED A PHOTO!!
  YES, ALL IS Happening on my LEFT SIDE TOO!
  XOXO
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

August 22, 2022 at 8:26 AM

OH THAT’S TERRIFIC!
A DOG A CAT OR ANOTHER ANIMAL?
YES. KIM’S HOUSE IS A RESORT!!!!!!!!PERFECT DESCRIPTION!
YES FINGER IS A STRAIN FOR SURE…..THANKS FOR THE INPUT!
XOXO
Heidi
· Reply

August 21, 2022 at 6:38 PM

H Elizabeth,
I love reliving this wonderful afternoon. We had such fun together, we always do! Having a pink theme made it every more fun! So glad we were able to celebrate your birthday together at Kim’s lovely home and pool side resort!
Thanks to you I’ve gotten another commission for a pet portrait! YOU started me on those and you weren’t wrong, I am so grateful! And I’m especially grateful for the connections you’ve helped make. We are all friends now because of you.
I know my life is better because of you, and my gals from instagram!
Take care, rest and don’t push yourself. The finger thing might be a strain from the way you hold the phone, that happened to me once after a particularly long and busy phone day. But, if you rest the whole hand the pain might go away. It takes a while though.
Hope to see you again soon, Lady in Pink!
Xoxo Heidi
Lorna Dykstr
· Reply

August 21, 2022 at 12:46 PM

What fun you all had. I approve of the pink theme. I love the colour you’re wearing. It’s one of my favourites. I’m having a problem reading blogs because my eyesight has got really bad all of a sudden. I need to make an appointment for a checkup. I’m also very achy on my left side. It’s some muscle or other that is overextended so I have to watch it.
I did not know pigs can’t see the sky. I learn something new from you every time.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:23 AM
  
  YES< YOU NEED TO GO IN AND HAVE THOSE EYES CHECKED!!! PRONTO..........SEND ME YOUR PHONE NUMBER SO I CAN CHECK UP ON YOU! EMAIL:IOLACONTESSA@GMAIL.COM XXX
Rena McDaniel
· Reply

August 21, 2022 at 7:12 AM

A little late, but fixed all the same! It’s been very busy around here. You ladies look gorgeous and it looks like such a fun time. I don’t believe I’ve ever gone to a girls luncheon before but maybe I’ll give it a try now that the backyard is almost finished! My brown spots seem to be growing daily and the multiply! I hate getting older…but it’s much better than the alternative. I’ve been trying to walk more but it’s been either scorching hot or pouring rain!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:20 AM
  
  TIME FOR A LADIES LUNCH!
  SEND THAT RAIN WEST…WOMAN!!
  GET UP EARLY AND WALK……..LISTEN TO ME I DO NOT EVEN WALK!!!
  OR AFTER DINNER IS SUPPOSE TO BE GOOD TOO!!
  XXX
Jill James
· Reply

August 21, 2022 at 12:10 AM

Sounds a wonderful day of friendship with some delicious food as well. The photos are all just lovely , the patient son did such a great job. You do look just stunning in your pink.
Sorry to read about your ongoing health issues and now a broken rib as well. You are not alone with the various age spots .
Take care Elizabeth. xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:16 AM
  
  HE DID JILL……..
  I LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR GARDEN PHOTOS COME SPRING!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
Rosemarie
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 7:27 PM

CONTESSA – you had me laughing re your comment – we have zero (well not really) in common except. Not that you need to make a list but I’m sure there is lots! Such a wonderful afternoon – oh my the food – and how lovely all the ladies looked and so enjoying one another’s company. Delightful.
Memory – recommend to me by the nurse practitioner is Vitamin B.
Rib – oh my things do happen without us knowing – did that will my foot – wondered why I was limping and in pain = cracked bone.
Hand /finger – see a physio who specializes in hand therapy if necessary. Often things eventually revolve on there own which surprises me.
Thanks for sharing this colourful;/delightful post.
California here I come! Well not right now but that is in another year or so to celebrate my 75th year.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:15 AM
  
  KIM AND I ARE WAITING FOR YOU!
  SPECIAL LADIES LUNCH FOR YOU!!!
  XXX
bonnie
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 4:41 PM

what a delightful sunny california afternoon you have invited us all to share. love the individual charcuterie plates! and pink…love pink! stay cool as you are.
bonnie
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:11 AM
  
  YES! I WILL DO THAT………MORE ECCENTRIC AS TIME GOES ON I AM SURE!
  XXX
lisa thomson-author
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 2:32 PM

What a beautiful gang of ladies! And the food looks fabulous as well! I noticed Banksy embroidered on your kaftan, LA CONTESSA. How ADORABLE! A pink hand bag with a pink kaftan? Definitely understated and beautiful.
I get more and more sunspots appearing on my limbs each year. Some are hideous and some are heart shaped 🙂
I can’t believe it took six years to get your diagnosis. Scary.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:09 AM
  
  YOU HAVE HEART SHAPES TOO!!!!!!!
  WELL AS TIME GOES ON WE CAN COMPARE SIZE!!!AND LOCATIONS!!
  YES, SIX YEARS SEVEN COME November.RECALL I STARTED OUT BY THINKING IT WAS A FOOD ALLERGY.FIRST MY HEART…….THEN THEY THOUGHT MIGRAINES THEN I FOUND OUT MY ATLAS WAS OUT OF WHACK.FINALLY A NEUROLOGIST NAILED IT BY A TEST WITH WIRES ON MY HEAD IN AN OVER NIGHT STUDY.
  FOCAL SEIZURES A FORM OF EPILEPSY.
  NOW WOULDN’T YOU THINK SOME DOCTOR ALONG THE WAY WOULD HAVE THOUGHT OF THAT?
  ESPECIALLY THE TWO MD’S OR THE THREE NUEROLOGIST’S I SAW BEFORE THIS ONE READ THE TEST!
  REALLY A SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS………….PLUS DON’T FORGET THE THREE FUNCTIONAL DOCTORS AND THE CELIAC SPECIALIST TOSSED IN THERE FOR THE TUNE OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS.
  LIFE HAS ITS UPS AND DOWNS AND MINE HAS THROWN MANY CURVE BALLS……….
  XXX
Pat
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 12:55 PM

All together, you ladies look like a spring flower bouquet…lovely!

Now about this broken rib…how dod that happen?
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 8:00 AM
  
  “OLD FRACTURE ” they said……..but yet it was not seen on CT SCAN in JULY!!!!!I believe from coughing So hard for many months……….XXX
Fran
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 12:45 PM

Carissima Contessa,

You all look FABULOUS in PINK! My favourite colour, I might add! Even though you are going through A LOT with your health ( broken rib now, TOO?!?), you manage to put yourself together Splendidly and are able to enjoy your outings with such Joie de Vivre! You definitely are an Inspiration for us all. Your girlfriends are all AMAZING Women who go the extra mile to make sure YOU are OK.. that is pretty Special! I hope you continue to enjoy Life to Its Fullest, Elizabeth!
Arthritis is a given the older one gets, it seems…every time I try to knead dough, my fingers lock up-weirdest thing….
PS. I am intrigued by the word, “CHARTRUDIERE” is that a NEW kind of charcuterie? One can never tell these days as people create new words out of old ones to describe something similar to the original, but more HIP….pretty fascinating!
Have a BEAUTIFUL Weekend, Bellissima Contessa!
XX00Fran
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:59 AM
  
  YOU WILL LAUGH OUT LOUD AS I GOOGLED THAT” CHART” WORD AND THAT IS WHAT IT TOLD ME!!!!
  I MISSED THAT WHOLE EPIDEMIC WITH THESE BOARDS………….AS WE NEVER MUNCH BEFORE DINNER AND I WOULD HAVE TO MAKE THAT ITALIAN DINNER ON TOP OF THAT!NO WAY COULD THAT BE DINNER!!!!!!
  I OWE YOU AN EMAIL………..WILL TRY TO DO THAT LATER TODAY!
  XOXO
Michele
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 12:33 PM

Dear Elizabeth, A broken rib- wow! Dave badly bruised his recently and he has had so much pain from it so I can only imagine how painful a broken one must be! Take care and hope it heals soon.
Thanks so much for sharing more pics from your fun girlfriend luncheon – I love how you all coordinated but each of your outfits expressed your personalities. All such talented and lovely ladies! Your blog is always a treat to look forward to.
Xox
M
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:55 AM
  
  “OLD” FRACTURE SOMEHOW YOU ALL MISSED THAT PART…….
  NO PAIN NOW.
  I BELIEVE IT WAS DUE TO COUGHING FOR ALL THOSE MONTHS!
  YOU ARE SPOT ON ABOUT THE OUTFITS AND PERSONALITIES AS I HAD THAT SAME THOUGHT!!
  XOXO
Pen
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 11:52 AM

Fabulous post! Everyone looks beautiful, and especially YOU!

How on earth did you break your rib! Ouch!

You are right….you would have made a fabulous set decorator!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:52 AM
  
  COUGHING I BELIEVE AND IT WAS JUST A FRACTURE………WHICH SOUNDS BETTER TO ME THAN A BREAK!
  THE CT SACN SHOWED IT WAS “OLD” SO IT HAS HEALED BY NOW.
  WHEN DO YOU MOVE NORTH?
  XXX
kim
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 11:17 AM

You looked great and I agree with the Italian, you were understated elegance! This pink is fab on you, especially with the yellow room. Gosh you would have been the best set designer. You know my background is in the theatre and it takes a creative person with a great eye to do that job!! You would have been brilliant. maybe you can rent your home out as a films set!!
Thank you for the kind things you said about may home.. Still working on it. Adore all of you girls and cherish every day we can do these things after the past few years!! I did not know about your rib. You must take care, I have had that and it’s super painful. Sending you big hugs. Wish we lived closer..xoxo Kim

P.S. the Banksy pic is too cute!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:51 AM
  
  I DINOT KNOW YOU WERE IN THEATRE!!!
  WAS THAT YOUR MAJOR IN COLLEGE?I NEED MORE INFO ON THAT!!
  AS WE CHATTED ABOUT THIS MORNING I DO BELIEVE IT WAS DONE BY THE COUGHING THAT WENT ON FOR MONTHS!
  NO PAIN NOW!
  XOXO
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 10:53 AM

What a great group of women! I always say this when I see all of you, but I wish I lived closer so I could be considered for an invitation. I’m sorry you’re still not feeling well, but you look wonderful. Pink agrees with you! I’m totally taken with Juliett’s charcuterie boards! So clever. When you left me a message on my blog, today, you mentioned cleaning out your closet. Where would you start? xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:48 AM
  
  THE PLUNGE HAS BEGUN on the CLOSET!!!!!!!!!!!
  YES, ALWAYS MORE LADIES WELCOME……………YOU WOULD BE A JOY TO HAVE NEAR BY!
  I HEAR TEXAS IS HAVING TERRIBLE FLOODS?
  YOU OUT OF THE PATH?
  XOXO
PPP
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 10:17 AM

Ma Chere Contessa,
Lovely story of these rich friendships.
All of you are confident and full-filled, but what stands out is that each of you is open to sharing..in blogs, art, food.
Such a great model to follow.
I enjoyed these lovely images of friendship… also Banksy and your pink tote!

PPP
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:45 AM
  
  THAT BANKSY SKIPPED DINNER LAST NIGHT!!!
  MAYBE TOO MANY CRAB APPLES???
  THANK YOU FOR READING!
  XXX
Juliet
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 10:01 AM

Contessa! I clicked the link and there it was. HOW did you do that?!!! You’re tech savvier than you think. Fun, fabulous, girls … YES, I agree we ARE! And speaking of fabulous, your velvet slippers and hot pink tote. LOVE that tote! As for brown spots and spider veins, don’t get me started. But suddenly, I’m covered in them. Oof. Broken rib?! Oh my goodness, and there is nothing you can do for that, right? Just wait for it to heal. Perhaps Tylenol or more serious pain meds? Dreadful. And the middle finger. I could make an off color joke, but I won’t. Arthritis? Possibly. Good thing X-ray showed no break or fracture there. One break at a time, please. A set designer is exactly what you should have been. Or should be. It’s not too late. You can direct, and young interns running around fetching and moving things to your exacting specifications. Hey, why don’t you rent out your backyard as a set … it’s ready to go. Sign up with Mint Locations and start raking it in (the cash). I enjoyed revisiting our amazing luncheon at Kims. So much fun … and I could look at these photos forever. Happy weekend, Contessa! xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:44 AM
  
  The RIB fracture is “OLD” they are saying so NO PAIN!
  But odd thing as I had the same test July 5th and nothing was mentioned!!!!!!
  AS I SAID NOT FOND OF THESE DOCTORS!!
  TOO LATE for SET DESIGNER…………NO ENERGY LEFT!
  WELL,I MUST SAY THANKS TO YOU AS MOST OF THESE PHOTOS ARE YOUR BEAUTIFUL SNAPS!!
  FUN DAY!READY TO DO IT ALL AGAIN IN SEPTEMBER!
  XOXO
Sally
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 9:56 AM

Freckles I call them, never age spots or god help me “liver spots” ??? and the fingers it is from the holding of the phone and texting. Try taking hylauranic acid capsules, they should bring down inflamation and lubricate!! Enjoy your beautiful life w such warm and lovy friends, that will keep you young and social as will all your adorable pets ??? love each and every blog post with each and every thought you share, you’re an absolute GEM of a human Contessa!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 22, 2022 at 7:39 AM
  
  YES< the phone is NOT GOOD........but this was a bad sprain as I think I swatted the dog and the use of it since has not helped! Hard NOT TO USE THAT FINGER............ I need to stop using the phone as well so much. Family got me an iPad for Mother's Day which I donot like either......as its so heavy for me to hold. I tried buying a "HOLDER"but that was a piece of garbage.I think what I need is the leather holder........... Such problems I have!!! THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUGGESTIONS! XXX
Marcie
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 9:37 AM

I always look forward to your posts…your friends…your caftans…your pets….your garden…your stories. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR LIFE WITH YOUR READERS!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 9:10 AM
  
  YOU ARE SO VERY WELCOME!
  THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO ME AS THIS ALL HAPPENED QUITE BY ACCIDENT!!
  BUT I HAVE TO SAY I HAVE ENJOYED IT VERY MUCH AND GETTING TO KNOW A LOT OF YOU THROUGH THIS WAY OF COMMUNICATING!I THINK THE INTERNET AND SOCIAL MEDIA SAVED US THROUGH THE COVID SCARE!!
  XXX
Robin
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August 20, 2022 at 8:21 AM

You all look gorgeous- what beautiful photos!! Pretty in pink!
Looks like you had so much fun and the food must have been delicious!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 9:07 AM
  
  SI ROBIN
  DA VERO!
  YOU AS AN ITALIAN IMPOSTER HIDING OUT IN UMBRIA WOULD HAVE APPROVED!
  HERE COMES THE OLIVE HARVEST ARE YOU READY?HAS IT BEEN A GOOD YEAR?
  XXX
  - Robin
    · Reply
    
    August 24, 2022 at 10:27 PM
    
    It looks like a good year- we have another two months to wait!! Our past two summers have been extremely HOT!!
    Hope you and GP are well.
Terry
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 7:00 AM

You beautiful ladies in the pictures look like a Renoir painting, come to life! How amazing everyone looks in an array of pinks and blues! What a lovely day you all graciously shared with us, too…Living vicariously, I have some wonderful ideas for my fall afternoon tea, thanks to your posts, Contessa, I keep a pad of paper handy by the computer!…Always inspiring and generous of heart. I always look forward to reading your thoughts. Hope your mend quickly, my dear, from the broken rib. I am sorry we share arthritis, too. Aging is not for the faint of heart. I know this firsthand. Sending love and a gentle hug from your birthday twin on the other coast. oxox Terry
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 9:04 AM
  
  OH THATS RIGHT!HAPPY HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
  NO BROKEN RIB NOW THEY SAID “OLD FRACTURE” SO IT HAPPENED IN THE PAST!
  THE ONLY THING I CAN THINK WAS IT WAS FROM COUGHING AS I COUGHED FOR A YEAR BEFORE THEY DISCOVERED THE DISEASE MAC IN MY LUNGS AWHILE BACK!
  YOU MADE MY DAY……..”I KEEP A PAD OF PAPER ”
  WHAT A COMPLIMENT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO ME…………..
  I’M GOING TO TELL THE ITALIAN THIS MORNING AS HE JUST ROLLS HIS EYES AT ME WITH MY IDEAS!!
  XOXO
Karen
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 6:20 AM

Contessa,
Just a note to tell you that you that I’ve always admired your wonderful posture! Whether you’re sitting or standing. It makes you look elegant and young. I am a tall gal too (5’10”). Was 6’ but have lost 2” already. I didn’t like being taller than all the boys in school. But my dear Dad kept telling me to stand proud all the time. Hated it then, but thank him everyday for the gift he gave me.
Thanks for sharing your beautiful life with us. The good and bad. Love to see your posts in my mail box.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:59 AM
  
  KAREN………….
  ME TOO ALWAYS THE TALLEST IN SCHOOL!
  HATED IT!!
  I WAS 5’11’.
  MY MOTHER DID THE SAME AS YOUR FATHER WAY INTO MY 20’S AS WELL…………
  I WOULD HUFF AND PUFF AND STAND ERECT FOR ABOUT A MINUTE!
  I HAVE BEEN WORKING ON IT LATELY!
  AS I SEE THAT HUMP EMERGING!
  I NOW HAVE A MIRROR BIG ROUND COSMETIC MIRROR AT MY DESK SO AS I AM TYPING AWAY HERE I CAN GLANCE INTO IT AND SEE WHERE THE BACK AND CHIN ARE “HANGING OUT!”
  I CORRECT IMMEDIATELY!
  MY ADVISE IS YOU WANT THE SHOULDER BLADES TO TOUCH……IT MAY FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE AND THAT YOU ARE TRYING TO STICK YOUR BOOBS OUT BUT TRY AND FORGET THAT PART!
  JUST THINK YOU NOTICED!!!
  MADE MY DAY!
  I FIND MYSELF CORRECTING AS I WALK NOW!!
  XXX
patti nisenholz
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 6:14 AM

What an inspiring post ! I found myself smiling, shaking my head, and wanting to devour every picture !! And……. you are showing us all jut how to AGE GRACEFULLY!!
xo, patti
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:53 AM
  
  MANY MANY THANKS PATTI!!!
  I AM IN SHOCK WHEN THESE THINGS HAPPEN AND I HAVE NOT GOTTEN TO THE UNDER ARMS!!!
  MY ITALIAN CANNOT RELATE; SO I MUST CHAT IT UP WITH OTHERS!!
  YOU ARE VERY KIND!!
  XOXO
Nunilo
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August 20, 2022 at 6:13 AM

Beautiful, charismatic and very elegant women!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:48 AM
  
  I SO APPRECIATE YOUR BEAUTIFUL COMMENT!
  SPAIN HERE I COME…………
  I MUST MEET YOU!
  XXX
Ginger
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 5:20 AM

You look fun and fabulous as always! What a great group of friends you have! And yes I have “met” every one of them through you over the years! It’s lovely to see you all together enjoying life! And pink is one of my favorite colors!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:47 AM
  
  OH GINGER!
  WINNER OF MY BIRDIES SHOES GIVE AWAY……..
  SO HAPPY YOU FOLLOW MY SUGGESTIONS!!!
  (I’M SMILING AND LAUGHING!)
  LOVED LOVE LOVED THE PHOTO OF YOU RECENTLY ON INSTAGRAM!!
  XXX
Gray
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 5:03 AM

I love you from afar! What a fun group of ladies – I have “met” Juliet online – so lovely! And I love love love her blog too! And Kim and I have “talked” a bit on IG.
I will get back to my blog soon, going away again later today.
As for now – you take care and be well. You look pretty in pink.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:45 AM
  
  YOU ENJOY YOURSELF……….
  A BREAK IS GOOD FROM TIME TO TIME………
  FOLLOW PREPPY EMPTY NESTER.SHE TAKES THE WHOLE SUMMER OFF!
  XXX
Dolores Forsythe
· Reply

August 20, 2022 at 4:43 AM

Thank you for sharing this lovely story. I always watch and listen to the things that you report on. You have such a fun way of life and I’m so sorry that you’re having some physical problems. I’m broken rib OMG! Would love to have you come back to Southern California anytime. Big hug Dolores
- Margaret
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  August 20, 2022 at 5:44 AM
  
  Love to see all the friendships and making everyday special thanks for sharing
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:44 AM
  
  I BELIEVE THE EMAIL SAID FRACTURED……..IS THERE A DIFFERENCE!
  AND IT WAS AN OLD FRACTURE…………NEVER MIND THEY DID AN X-RAY IN JULY AND DIDNOT SEE IT!!
  WHICH I FIND ALARMING!!!
  IT COULD HAVE BEEN FROM COUGHING AS I WAS DOING THAT FOR OVER A YEAR!!!
  I WILL BE BACK!!!
  XXX
Dee Black
· Reply

August 19, 2022 at 5:56 PM

Always no alway
Dee Black
· Reply

August 19, 2022 at 5:54 PM

“Understated and Beautiful” doesn’t that say it perfectly. Italian nailed it.
Love that Banksy made an appearance on pink (caftan). ?
Broken rib ouch. I broke a finger pulling weeds. Who knew we would have to start working out to maintain what alway came easily. No…you do not look tired at all. In fact, you look great.
Quiet is a surprise. Very surprised by that. I think I remember somewhere you mentioned you are shy, though.
In Florida, it is common to find mold in lungs. Don’t you feel better already knowing you do not live here. So much humidity.
Thanks for sharing it all. Even the health issues. This helps us all to see these things are just a normal part of aging that we all experience.
Here’s birthday wishes for a healthy happy year ahead with more perfect days like above.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:40 AM
  
  I THOUGHT A FEW OF YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED BY ME BEING THE QUIET ONE!
  YES I WAS VERY SHY BACK IN THE DAY!THEN SOMETHING HAPPENED I THINK WE MOVED TO ITALY AND I CAME OUT OF MY SHELL!
  AS I WAS IN HEAVEN.
  I THINK THATS WHAT THIS BLOG WILL BE ABOUT WE MUST SHARE WHAT IS HAPPENING SO WE DO NOT THINK WE ARE THE ONLY ONES EXPERIENCING THESE THINGS AS THEY DO JUMP OUT ALL OF A SUDDEN WITHOUT ANY WARNING!!
  NOW THATS AN ODD ONE BREAKING A FINGER PULLING WEEDS!!!!
  WHAT I RECALL ABOUT FLORIDA AS I HAD AN AUNT THERE WAS HUMIDITY, RAIN AND BIG BUGS!
  I WAS ABOUT 6 YEARS OLD!!
  I SPENT A HALLOWEEN THERE!
  XXX
Marleah
· Reply

August 19, 2022 at 12:09 PM

A broken rib? Unreal.
What a shock
Beautiful photos and the food looks delicious.
Such a gorgeous lifestyle you live.
Take care
Marleah
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  August 21, 2022 at 8:32 AM
  
  OH MARLEAH it was an old fracture is what they said!
  Hard to believe as I do NOTHING to create such a problem………
  The only thing I can think of is the COUGHING WAS OUT OF CONTROL there for awhile!
  Perhaps that did it!
  XXX