• Home
  • About
  • La Contessa
  • La Contessa & Friends
  • Press / Publications

The Vintage Contessa

  • Home
  • About
  • La Contessa
  • La Contessa & Friends
  • Press / Publications

MANSIONS & PUSHY BUTTONS!

September 13, 2016 97 Comments

ROSECLIFF

 

MY trip back EAST was SO DELIGHTFUL in SO many ways……..

I first saw the SON and his food trucks and MY GRAND DOGS.

I then drove MYSELF to GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE’s house that is a museum now which he built in the 1700’s at the age of 28.I AM RELATED to HIM if you missed my other POST on this trip!

I then LANDED in NEWPORT,RHODE ISLAND for the weekend.

I  had a MARVELOUS TIME…………..

HERE

SEE FOR YOURSELF

I

was in my ELEMENT!

img_8861

MY GUESS A BOLDINI!

img_8866

A GRAND STAIRCASE.

img_8862

LET THERE BE LIGHT!

img_8864

ROSECLIFF

The AWNING ALONE

CAPTURED MY HEART.

The GREAT GATBSY was filmed HERE.

img_1203

img_8859

THE GRAND BALLROOM

img_8852

THE BREAKERS……….I THINK!

img_8850

This captured my HEART TOO!

img_8849

 WEEPING BEECH TREES

took my breath away!

This was a small one.

I

WANT A FEW!

img_8945

LIKE THIS ONE!

img_8858

 TAPESTRY’s

SORRY, this is not in FOCUS all I can say for MY excuse was I was TOO EXCITED!

 I want a REAL TAPESTRY……..

18 CENTURY

if NOT OLDER.

I would have LOVED to SEE how they designed them and THE WOMEN who made them!

What did the WOMEN chat about as they WORKED?

How many YEARS did THEY meet and STITCH AWAY?

Did they EVER make a MISTAKE?

If so who was madder?

The Woman who made the GOOF or the other WOMEN who were plugging away?

img_8881

CURTAINS………with a bit of DUST!

GOOD TO SEE THIS.

MAKES ME FEEL BETTER!

img_8885

This was my FAVORITE

DO~DA

then I found MORE!

img_8907

I believe this one was in the BATHROOM.

IT say’s BUTLER’s PANTRY on the Left and MAID’s ro NO.4 on the right.

On my I~phone it is in FOCUS!

img_8906

MARBLE………..TUB.

This one belonged to a MAN!

img_8988

img_1236

CHATEAU~ SUR~ MER

PUSHY BUTTON!

img_8912

THE CLOSET..

I actually have TWO of these hangers!

The ITALIAN’s HOUSE in ITALY had them.

MADE OF WOOD.

IN

ESSENCE

The first hanger PROTO type.

img_8980

If ONLY I had HAD A SCREW DRIVER……

img_8910

WHO MADE THESE BEAUTIFUL LOCKS?

Where did HIS inspiration come from?

Again, I apologize for the BLURR………

I was moving at a CLIP

and trying to CAPTURE IT to take

with ME!

There were FOLKS behind ME!

img_8915

CHAIR at THE BREAKERS

FOR OUTSIDE WIND CONTROL

with a VIEW!

img_8917

JUST GIVE ME A WINDOW LIKE THIS AND I AM COMPLETE!

You will FIND me at MY WINDOW

MORNING ~ NOON ~ and NIGHT!

img_8923

THE MUSIC ROOM behind those doors!

img_8922

THE ATLANTIC OCEAN under that BLUE BLUE SKY!

Europe is only SIX hours away from here.

Those EAST COAST people are SO LUCKY!

A

HOP

SKIP

and

A

JUMP!

TO THE OLD WORLD!

In other WORDS

A

MEAL

A MOVIE

and a good READ!

ELIZABETH

This is a GIOVANNI BOLDINI painting.

her name

ELIZABETH!

Giovanni Boldini was an Italian genre and portrait painter who lived and worked in Paris for most of his career. According to a 1933 article in Time magazine, he was known as the “Master of Swish” because of his flowing style of painting.

I ADORE HIS STYLE!

NOTE

HE IS ITALIAN.

img_8965

A PAINTING in a SUNROOM.

I do BELIEVE IRIS APFEL

had a birthday lunch celebration HERE a few days AFTER I walked THRU!

This reminds ME of MINDY ROSENBERG DESIGNS flower arrangements!

Do you FOLLOW HER on INSTAGRAM?

Follow my LEAD and TAKE A PEEK!

img_8878

MORE BEAUTY.

MORE PERGOLA’s with a VISTA of the OCEAN.

img_8957

THE ELMS

A FOLLY in the GARDEN.

There were TWO of these.

The ITALIAN was suppose to build ME a FOLLY 22 years AGO!

Perhaps, he NEEDS this as INSPIRATION.

I can wait!

img_1246

How do I LOOK in the GARDEN.

I would BE A HAPPY ACCESSORY!

img_1250

I sat HERE for awhile to catch my breath

Check MY phone

and to take the

Surroundings IN!

I could easily LIVE in a FOLLY!

A chaise lounge.

A chandelier.

A cat.

A champagne bucket or THREE for flowers from the garden.

THAT would DO!

img_1252

It was WARM that day and this FISH and I had a few words!

img_8982

A BATHROOM from the early 1900’s.

WORKS FOR ME!

IMG_8926

I have an URN FETISH.

img_8870

THE BREAKERS

A VANDERBILT HOUSE.

A room to EAT IN.

img_8875

One of those LIGHT FIXTURES close UP!

img_8867MY favorite spot in this CASA!

Behind the main staircase

A FOUNTAIN.

They were bringing the OUTSIDE IN

BEFORE

It was the THING TO DO!

Can you IMAGINE being a KID

(ANDERSON COOPER)

in this HOME?

I heard they slid down the BANISTER on TRAYS…….

STERLING SILVER

NO DOUBT!

img_1317

After FIVE MANSIONS and a SERVANT TOUR the last TOURISTY item on the LIST was a WALK along the CLIFF WALK.

I had to do it but it was WARM that day and I wanted to HIT a few shops.

I saved THE WALK for my AFTERNOON STROLL.

Or

THAT WAS THE PLAN!

UNTIL

I was walking to MY CAR and SPIED an ANTIQUE SHOP OPEN ON SUNDAY!

I

actually argued with MYSELF.

GO IN ELIZABETH….

“NO!

GO TO THE CAR NOW!”

JUST PEEK.

“YOU HAVE NO ROOM IN YOUR LUGGAGE”

JUST 5 MINUTES!!!

“THAT WALK AWAITS AND YOU MUST DO IT!”

I went in the SHOP………..does that SURPRISE YOU?

As soon as I entered I was in HEAVEN.

It was CRAMMED FULL of ALL the STUFF I ADORE!

I barely had my FOOT inside and there staring at me were CANDLESTICKS in SILVER that had my NAME ALL OVER THEM!

I of course YELL

HOW MUCH ARE THESE?

A voice bounces back at me.

I answer GOOD PRICE!

As I make my way to the back of the shop TALKING the entire length,I land in front of STELLA’s desk.

For the LIFE of ME I canNOT recall WHY I referred to HIM or said,”THE ITALIAN”!!

But

I DID.

With those TWO words she leaned back in HER CHAIR and said,

“DO YOU WRITE A BLOG?!!!”

I reply.

“IT’s ME!!!!!!”

The next moment WE were hugging and questions were flying at me about OUR DEAR DEAR ELLIE.

As that is HOW STELLA found ME!

( this was before her passing)

Next thing I know a BRACELET is being SLIPPED ON MY WRIST!

SEE photo ABOVE!

HER WORDS.

“A GIFT FROM NEWPORT!”

Now, think about this a moment……….here I am CLEAR ACROSS the UNITED STATES of AMERICA and I have been RECOGNIZED by the way I refer to my HUSBAND of 30 YEARS!

THAT MADE MY MONTH,

Stella was as excited to meet ME as I was that she KNEW ME!

I of course,had THAT WALK NAGGING AT ME…….

So, I say

“I have to go do THAT WALK or part of it!”

By now it is close to 4 o’clock.

SO,

I blurt OUT, the way I do

“IS THERE A HUSBAND?”

CAN YOU GO TO DINNER WITH ME?

WE

DINED TWO and half hours later

and I am HAPPY to say

I did TRY TO DO THE WALK

BUT there was NO PARKING

SO,

ALL that meant was I MUST RETURN to NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND!

ESPECIALLY,

TO SEE STELLA and HER CHARMING SHOP.

If you are close do POP IN!

Tell her THE CONTESSA sent YOU!

img_1380

THE SHOP is located 121 BELLEVUE AVENUE

NEWPORT,Rhode ISLAND

THE NAME IS

DESIGN NEWPORT

IF you want to ring her about those SILVER~PLATED CANDLESTICKS I didNOT BUY THEM!

The ONE’s on the LEFT!

SOMEONE needs to ACT FAST

as

they still HAUNT ME!

401-848-9900

img_2525-1

NEXT UP

How I met up with a REALLY FUN LADY who has a BLOG.

AND

How AN INSTAGRAM FOLLOWER pointed ME in the DIRECTION of GENERAL NATHANAEL GREEN’s BIRTH HOME.

Where one of MY RELATIVES still lives.

CAN YOU STAND MORE of my STORIES!!!!!!!?

HOPE SO!

I CANNOT THANK YOU enough TRUELY from the BOTTOM Of MY HEART TO ALL  who left COMMENTS

OR

 emails about OUR BELOVED ELLIE.

I LOVED YOUR THOUGHTS,SHARING and CARING

ON OUR

BEAUTIFUL

ELEANOR O’CONNELL DECRET

YOU CAN ADDRESS A CARD

NO FLOWERS

TO ELEANOR O’CONNELL DECRET

68 EUCALYPTUS LANE

MONTECITO,CALIFORNIA

93108

YOUR THOUGHTS and STORIES were SO APPRECIATED BY SO MANY!!

XOXO

img_8964

Related

97 Comments
Share

97 Comments

Leave your reply.
  • Tamera Beardsley
    · Reply

    September 27, 2016 at 7:45 AM

    My heavens, what a truly lovely post my dear! I so enjoy reading about your travels! And I recognize your fabulous white shirt, (it has been recently added to my closet as well), no surprise there, for us, is there!!

    xoxo
    Tamera

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 30, 2016 at 10:05 AM

      NO!!!!!!

      XX

  • Anita Rivera
    · Reply

    September 25, 2016 at 8:35 AM

    HOW IN THEE SAM HILL DID I MISS THIS POST????

    There is so much beauty and eloquence in your lifestyle that I love. From the jewels, the love for garden and classic beauty, the friendships, your ZEST for life, Contessa, you beat all. AND, you too met Fifi? She is marvelous, isn’t she! So gracious. I am thrilled that our home is in this magazine! I hope to get a copy soon. Thank you for stopping by! Anita

    • Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply

      September 25, 2016 at 11:10 PM

      Isn’t it just heavenly??? ZEST for life is exactly…..right! What a lucky group we are to find Contessa……and I don’t know who Anita is…..but I am so happy she wrote about this!

      When was the last time you heard the expression……”How in the name of Sam Hill did I miss this?

      I am really old…..and I have heard it…..I know what it means…..but I have not heard it for many years! It makes my heart sing!!!

    • Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply

      September 25, 2016 at 11:13 PM

      here it is!!

      mike1084
      Best Answer: Because “Sam Hill” is a perfectly good real name, many people assume that the phrase must have originally referred to a real person, it is not.
      it’s an early 19th century American euphemism for “hell” used as an oath. Its an inventive linguistic detours around oaths and blasphemies. “Heck,” “drat,” “darn,” “gosh,” “jiminy,” “gee-whiz” and “goldarn.” Thanks to our Puritan ancestry.
      Meaning….”how in the hell”!!!!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 26, 2016 at 7:33 AM

      YES, Fifi swung by one morning and stayed for DINNER!I too was in the magazine and HER COOKBOOK which was not Planned but they shot as we were preparing dinner!DO you own PRARIE STYLE COOKBOOK?
      PENELOPE…………ANITA writes or did MORE before then now a BLOG called CASTLES,CROWNS,COTTAGES.BLOGSPOT and I cannot believe you mentioned MUSIC as she ALWAYS had US her readers listening to MUSIC Before we read the POST!
      YOU MUST GO FIND HER ON INSTAGRAM..les_dames_dabord……..GOT IT?!!

  • Nancy Case
    · Reply

    September 20, 2016 at 7:53 PM

    Joining in on this fabulous blog post! Contessa!! Chandeliers, marble, urns, fountains, tapestries, buttons, Oh my! All to die for and can you imagine a Christmas gala in one of those gorgeous mansions. The bracelet gift is so gorgeous! What a perfect, loving Birthday gift from Giampy. So proud of your son and his food truck business.. loved, loved, loved the post xoxoxo

    • Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply

      September 20, 2016 at 11:01 PM

      This blog post will have to go down in blog history! One of the GREAT Blog posts EVER!!
      right after….or during….our darling and beloved Ellie……..”going up”; here comes this amazing post of life at its fullest! Contessa grabs life by the horns!

      I adore blogs…..and what a gift Contessa’s is! Live life to the fullest…..get excited…..make heaven anywhere you land……that is her message…..and she proves it every single post!

      Penelope
      ps. When I met Contessa….she was a bit nervous about doing a blog……HUH????

      Tell them, Contessa!!! TELL!!! Your fans will love it!!!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 21, 2016 at 6:07 AM

      THANK YOU!
      The PLEASURE is ALL MINE to share my trip with YOU!
      LOVING that LAVENDER BALM TOO!!!!!
      XX

    • Nancy Case
      · Reply

      September 26, 2016 at 10:23 AM

      So glad you love the lavender balm! Is it not divine:)) xoxo
      Time to get together for a catch up chat! Miss you
      p.s. Loving these early Fall days…….

  • Marilynn Williams
    · Reply

    September 19, 2016 at 8:42 PM

    My family is from Newport. When Granny died I had no idea that the “stuff” our family had accumulated for a bazillion years mattered to people. That said, we did sell everything from the estate. It just didn’t fit with the lifestyle that me and my siblings live now. I probably should have housed everything but to what cause? Better to have people enjoy our things. It gives me comfort.

    • Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply

      September 19, 2016 at 11:12 PM

      Marilyn…….I agree. If it doesn’t fit……don’t try to make it! Spread those beautiful things around….and let them bring other people joy!
      It is a lovely way to share…..and I am so happy it gives you comfort! It is also great for the environment!

      Nothing , I bet, of “Granny’s” ended up in a landfill……unlike all the furniture that Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware is selling today. No one’s children will be inheriting any of it……sadly. Landfill. Garbage made in China.
      “Your Granny’s things” are what makes the world go around happily in places like we live in! We are so so lucky!!!
      Great comment!!!

  • Lee Anne
    · Reply

    September 17, 2016 at 8:56 PM

    This post gave me goosebumps! Newport is now on my list. I thank you so for bringing these homes to life. Just fascinating and I LOVE your new bracelet! It’s stunning. Your blog world is certainly vast. To think that warm greetings with friendships formed in unfamiliar places are a byproduct is such fun! I feel the same as another commenter in that I can’t quite wrap my head around Ellie’s passing. Life goes on but the world has lost a little sparkle. What a generous effort of dear Grace. And her writing is good! I loved how she ended her post with Ellie is haunting her a little. Thank you again. I’ll be reading you, Stephen and Heather with warm thoughts. And some others you have introduced us to. Cheers!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 18, 2016 at 10:48 AM

      LEE ANNE
      I think WE ALL SEE a bit of HER MAMA in HER writing!She was a DEAR to POST and make HER LIST!I LOVED FRENCH DIPS and cannot get the DISNEYLAND spot out of my MIND!NEVER TOO OLD to visit THAT PARK!I have found some AMAZING PEOPLE through my BLOG……and KINDNESS and GENEROSITY.It was the same when I lived in ITALY.The English speaking community embraces one another and will do MOST ANYTHING for each other………I FIND THAT TO BE TRUE IN BLOGLAND AS WELL.
      THANK YOU for READING US………..I will be watching for YOUR COMMENTS!
      XX

  • Nicole
    · Reply

    September 15, 2016 at 8:53 PM

    Nice tour, thank you, Contessa! The Newport mansions stand in another place in time, don’t they? Your pictures brought back memories from a family visit there in the early 90’s. Two things I remember: 1) I noticed no closets in the bedrooms and asked about it. “The servants kept them in other rooms.” 2) The tub with two sets of faucets were so that if anybody wanted a sea soak, they could fill the tub with ocean water! And one more tidbit, Mr. Vanderbilt was so afraid of fire that he had the oil tanks buried, away from the house. I need to go find my photos (curious to see the size of my kids then!). Great post.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 16, 2016 at 6:47 AM

      The closets were off the bathrooms………….down a narrow hall.
      YES!That is right sea water and regular hot water!
      I did not hear anything about MISTER V’s water tanks but THE ELMS tanks were on the ROOF!!!!!!!!!!Along the passage where the servants slept.
      THEY DO stand in another ERA for me too!
      THANKS,
      XX

    • Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply

      September 19, 2016 at 11:03 PM

      Another lovely thing about La Contessa’s posts! They stir in all of us memories!! I have so many memories of Newport…….and they have all been stirred up and brought to the surface! What a wonderful quality you have, Contessa! Such a gift!!!

      Many blogs have fallen by the wayside…..many good ones…..many not so good….
      I hope yours will continue and continue!!!

      Because it is BRILLIANT; cogent…..entertaining and enlightening!!!

      BRAVA!!!

      ps pox on you and go away if you still think capitalizing is yelling!! No one can “hear” a blog post. That etiquette thing is way outdated…..in the “Stone Age”….actually!!!!
      Continue on, Contessa! Long may you reign!!!!!

  • LA CONTESSA
    · Reply

    Author
    September 15, 2016 at 12:26 PM

    VIA EMAIL:
    As always, I love your stories and your adventures. Ellie is also in my thoughts.

  • LA CONTESSA
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 3:12 PM

    VIA EMAIL:
    What a treat!!!!
    Simply beeeeeautiful!!!!!
    And so are you!
    RAE

  • LA CONTESSA
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 3:11 PM

    YES, I could IMAGINE living in one of those houses………..THE PARTIES ONE COULD TOSS!!!Then there were THE BULTER PANTRIES!!!!I didNOT even touch on those…………
    Nice that WE can VISIT and DREAM!
    I AGREE………..The BLOGGING WORLD is like having PEN PALS but BETTER!
    XX

  • elizabeth@pineconesandacornsblog
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 2:48 PM

    This looks like a fabulous adventure. Congratulations to your son and his successful food trucks!

    I could easily live in any of those beautiful houses. Can you even imagine what that must have been like?

    I have to say that my favorite past of the post was you meeting a blog friend/follower! How wonderful this world of blogging is.

    Have a great week, by the way the bracelet is a fabulous memento!

  • Heather Lindstrom
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 12:43 PM

    You have the MOST interesting adventures, lovely lady! That photo of you in the garden is frame worthy to be sure. Isn’t it the best to meet up with bloggers, unexpectedly sometimes, and have that kind of connection? So glad you enjoyed your summer travels. I enjoyed every moment of ITALY and the Paris apartment. What a fabulous spot Corey and Yann have created–as you know. Can’t wait to go again.
    Lovely post!
    xx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 3:00 PM

      This trip was IMPORTANT because THE SON was on the OTHER end but I NEVER EXPECTED TO BE SO EXCITED and DELIGHTED by what FOLLOWED!
      It was MAGICAL!!!!!
      XX

  • Jennifer
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 8:58 AM

    Reading your post made me feel like I was standing next to you in some of the Newport “Cottages” taking in all the glittering interiors and painting. Your enthusiasm for life is inspirational!!! LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this post

    The bracelet is to die for too!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:51 PM

      I am QUITE SMITTEN with it!
      SO, happy I pleased YOU!I must tell YOU I made your PEACH & Blueberry CRUMBLE!
      D I V I N E!
      THANK YOU!
      XX

  • Jennifer
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 8:56 AM

    What a fabulous place!! I can see you living there quite easily. You look fabulous in the garden.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:49 PM

      GRAZIE!!!XX

  • Bonnie groves poppe
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 7:29 AM

    I think those tapestries, the genuine ones, were woven on big looms by an entire family of weavers. It was rolled up as they went and if something was wrong they would not see it until it was finished and unrolled! Ellie, what can you say. Not much. A loss for all that knew her blog and also those close to her. We never met, I had hoped to go and see her with Heather, but she left (as did Heather) before it happened. I must see Newport. As a Californian during most of my many years in the US, I seldom got that far east. I had no idea it was so gorgeous and that there were so many historic homes to visit. You made it come alive…..
    Bonnie in Provence

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:48 PM

      BONNIE………..Where in California do YOU hail from?I WANT to know!
      XX

  • RebeccaNYC
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 6:30 AM

    Gaaaaaaaa Gorgeousness all around! I think I would have been swirling and turning and pointing…”this…that…the other thing….look!” I cannot believe I have never been here. Need to fix that pronto!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:46 PM

      YOU DO!
      YOU ARE SO CLOSE…….and MY FRIEND STELLA would LOVE TO MEET YOU!
      Although, I have NEVER met YOU I think the TWO of YOU would HIT it OFF BEAUTIFULLY!!!!
      LET ME KNOW!
      XX

  • Emily
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 4:58 AM

    “Stella!!” (say it in your best Rocky voice) SO COOL Elizabeth. Can’t wait to read more about other virtual friends that come to life for you.
    I belong in a different era, and I know you do too. This kind of day would have filled my cup for a long time. So glad you experienced it!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:45 PM

      EMILY!!!
      YOU SAID IT!!!!
      IT DID FILL UP MY CUP. I AM STILL SPINNING FROM THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE!!!!!
      YES, I think I should have been in the 17 century………..with a BATHROOM!!!
      XX

  • Ros Short
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 4:16 AM

    La Contessa a great blog on Newports mansions I’ve just read Gracie’s Ode to her Mum & then played YouTube nos Damien Rice ,James Blunt & Over the Rainbow It was so moving & reminded me what a struggle Ellie had just coming to grips with everyday life , how feisty, resilient & outspoken she was.I was in awe of her so could NEVER comment on her blogs but lapped them up like pearls of such damned good wisdom . play some of those songs , be prepared to shead a tear & if you’ve lost someone along the way they certainly HIT home Love to you dear girl Ros

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:43 PM

      OH ROS,
      I did listen to the VIDEO GRACE had at the TOP of her POST…………it was PERFECT.
      I ADORE that saying “LAPPED them up like pearls of such damned good wisdom!”I have NEVER heard that before……….SO TRUE!
      HUGS to YOU TOO DOWN UNDER……….XX

  • Karen Persson
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 3:45 AM

    Wow, amazing photos and story. How breathtaking and like a fairytale to imagine living in a mansion like that. Loved the buttons for the butlers! You looked divine, as usual! You do lead a lovely life and I know you make it that way!

    Keep it up! xoxo

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 2:39 PM

      I TRY……………. I DREAM A LOT!!!!
      XX

  • Priscilla Pilkington
    · Reply

    September 14, 2016 at 2:47 AM

    I do so enjoy your blogs,this one was particularly interesting as your enthusiasm is infectious. My Bucket list is getting longer and longer and now East Coast USA is jumping the queue! Used to visit U.S regularly with work and loved it,but get the most awful jet-lag so didn’t see nearly enough. Now that I’ve partially given up working, I will enjoy your TOURS as a substitute!!!!…….So missing EllieOD blogs,she too let her readers live the moment…. Bad luck with the outside paint, time spent re-painting could mean contemplative thoughts on the Folly now you’ve given the hint!!!!! Or not!!!!…..

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:33 AM

      RIGHT OH!!!
      Wish me LUCK with that ONE!
      DO GO SEE THESE FABULOUS HOMES!There is even MORE I did not visit!
      The TOWN is CHARMING!!!
      Ellie’s daughter POSTED yesterday…………..DID you SEE?
      JUST BEAUTIFUL!
      XX

  • Ali
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:20 PM

    My little comment about this fantastic post of yours is…..not many women would look as lovely in an off the shoulder dress/blouses as you do. You have lovely shoulder….
    Ali

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:30 AM

      SO kind of YOU!
      That BLOUSE doesNOT stay DOWN……………..I had to HELP it a bit.Which is FINE as I ‘m a bit TOO old to wear that FUN LOOK but I couldNOT help MYSELF!I want YOU to know I was STOPPED a few times that day for MY OUTFIT!!!A TOP and a pair of black linen pants!I told ONE LADY ONE MUST DRESS FOR THE MANSIONS……………don’t get me started on what the “NORM” was………flip flops, tennis shoes and SHORTS!
      XX

  • kim
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:03 PM

    Contessa, I whiled away another beautiful half hour reading all the details of this fab trip! How fun to see all those mansions. Definitely on my bucket list! Love those wicker chairs with the window and that bathroom-swoon! Well of course you met someone who knew you! They know you everywhere. Love the bracelet. Lovely shop. Okay what happened next? So enjoying your trip posts. xoxo Kim

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:27 AM

      STAY TUNED………………..More photos More stories…………ALL because of this CYBER SPACE STUFF!
      XX

  • Amy
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 5:58 PM

    What A Most Wonderful Post!
    So Inspiring You Are!
    Loved Your Pictures!
    Thank-you! 🙂

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:25 AM

      THANK YOU!
      XX

  • Piedmont Pembroke Parent
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 5:57 PM

    Ma Chere Contessa,

    What a splendid ending to your blog. I love the photos; especially you looking ravishingly appropriate in the Newport gardens. But your meeting Stella was wonderfully unexpected!
    Keep writing. You entertain us all and make those unexpected connections which are inspiring and so delightful. It’s a small world if you make it so..keep blogging!
    Affectionately,

    PPP

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:25 AM

      OKAY!
      IF YOU say SO madame PPP!!!
      XX

  • Catherine
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 5:48 PM

    The portrait of Elizabeth looks like you! I hope you are aware that you have now made my delusions of being an heiress stronger than ever!!!!!!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:24 AM

      HA!!!!!!!
      NO HEIRESS HERE………………..XX

  • jill
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 5:37 PM

    this is one of my favorite posts ever! the mansions are unbelievable; so glad you got to experience them. and I just love the story of you getting recognized!!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:23 AM

      FUN STORY!
      THANK YOU for commenting!!!!
      XX

  • Arabella deWilliams
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 5:12 PM

    This post made me laugh And cry (shame on you I’m at the library!) What a lovely adventure. I can’t wait to start making new memories as I navigate the waters alone. My most beloved husband of 30 years, traveled to Heaven without me 2 years ago. It has taken some time for my sojourn spirit to return. After reading of your trip, I hear the call to roam. You are filling the empty spot for Ellie????

    • Arabella deWilliams
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 8:37 PM

      I did not mean to leave an abundance of question marks..originally it was an emotion but it was not correctly imaged.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:22 AM

      I know………….if you were sending on your phone it tends NOT to show the EMOTIONS!!
      NO worries I can get rid of the QUESTION MARKS!
      Traveling is GOOD for the SOUL…………..
      I can NEVER fill the VOID of ELLIE!
      But I hope I can make you laugh and smile.
      SO SORRY for your LOSS.
      I LOVE YOUR NAME! ARABELLA………..
      GO TO NEWPORT it is a safe place and MY FRIEND STELLA will tell you where to go and perhaps even have DINNER with YOU!!!!!!!YOU CAN DO THIS!!!
      Send me an email if I can be of MORE HELP!
      iolacontessa@gmail.com
      I loved the INN I stayed at………THINK YOU would TOO!Walking distance to the TOWN!
      XX

  • Janey
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 4:11 PM

    Wow! The only way this post could be more beautiful is to have you gracing one of those staircases!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:53 PM

      AND I DID THAT and thought to myself as I came down…………CAN YOU IMAGINE MISSING A STEP and the FALL!!!!!Long gowns, high heels……….ALL EYES ON YOU!!!!!!!!!
      Gives me shivers to even THINK about!!!
      You are VERY kind……..But I forgot to pack THE GOWN!
      XX

  • LA CONTESSA
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 3:18 PM

    VIA EMAIL:
    Amazing serendipity Elizabeth! but then again may be not since you seem to have a distinctive following of folks who share your taste, some of which clearly have antique/vintage shops! Do you miss yours? or are you happier with the time to visit the others! 🙂
    Cheers,
    Kay

  • Ms. Mary
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 3:07 PM

    You seek the beautiful things across the country, and beauty flows from you. Another superb BLOG posting. Thanks for bringing us along.

    Your enthusiasm and grace are legendary! A NATIONAL following! So great that Stella recognized “The Italian” and connected with you. My favorite part of the story!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:16 AM

      IT IS A GOOD STORY!!!!!!!
      THANK YOU MARY……..and by the way…….I APPROVE!!!!
      XX

  • Anita Rivera
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 3:01 PM

    Hello dear Contessa!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:15 AM

      CIAO!
      COVER GIRL for ROMANTIC COUNTRY !!
      I will be LOOKING for MY COPY in the mailbox!
      CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
      XX

  • Mindy Rosenberg
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 2:38 PM

    Another wonderful adventure Elizabeth! Boldini…Mindy Rosenberg Design flowers…you are too kind. I wish I could have met that Italian and saw the actual flowers he painted. You bring EVERYTHING to life and I am so grateful to feel as though I am on your adventures with you. Thank you for the shout out and for sharing this fabulous slice of your life.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 14, 2016 at 9:13 AM

      SHARING and PHOTOS and BEAUTIFUL things are what make US all HAPPY!
      You definitely NEED a BOLERO rose…………..TO remind YOU of ME!!!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Bungalow Hostess
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 2:38 PM

    My goodness that is a divine residence!
    Such elegant and elaborate details…the Boldini Art, the bath, gardens and I quite think you would be very much at home there…if your Italian would join you.
    Such fun how you popped into the shop and we’re friends instantly.
    Did you see Gracie’s post on Ellie’s blog today?

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:50 PM

      I DID!!!!!!!!
      BEAUTIFUL JOB………….
      That couldNOT have been easy for HER.
      XX

  • Shireen
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 1:52 PM

    Such lovely pictures and stories Elizabeth! You meet and make friends wherever you go!!! Xoxo, Shireen
    ps. I miss EOD ????

    • Shireen
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 1:53 PM

      Sorry for the duplicate and the ??? Was a 🙁

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 3:18 PM

      GRACIE has written A POST………….HOP SKIP……….RUN!!!!!
      XX

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:49 PM

      I KNOW WE ALL DO!
      XX

  • Sandra Sallin
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 1:45 PM

    What fun to go on a trip with you. Loved the “master of swish.” Didn’t he make women gorgeous. Loved your visiting General Greene’s home. Isn’t it miraculous the way you shout “The Italian” and the whole world knows it’s the Vintage Contessa in the area. Loved how you wondered what the women would talk about while weaving and what would happen if there was a mistake. I try and press buttons for a maid to assist me, but funny it doesn’t work. Lovely trip and thanks for including all of us. PS. Just made a bid on the same necklace you’re wearing. Two peas in a pod.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:49 PM

      YES!
      WE CAN BE TWINS………..I WOULD LOVE THAT!Think the CAPUTI necklace will be DIVINE around your neck!I KNOW I KNOW THOSE PUSHY BUTTONS areNOT working HERE EITHER!!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Loree
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 1:21 PM

    Those mansions! Those gardens! Those fountains! Looks like you had a good time touring these beautiful homes of the rich. I love the east coast of America. I tell my husband if we ever move back, it will be to the east coast. I love your charmed life Elizabeth. Thanks for sharing with us.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:46 PM

      CHARMED LIFE!
      That made me LAUGH………..BUT OKAY!
      Thrilled I can SHARE and YOU ENJOY IT ALL………
      THANK YOU for mentioning me and MY TASTE on your GORGEOUS BLOG STORIES and SCRIBBLES.Worth a visit if you areNOT in the know READERS!!
      XX

  • Katie Clooney
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 10:30 AM

    Great post, Contessa. Your pics are gorgeous!! You really captured the essence of Newport.

  • Lindsay
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 10:11 AM

    Fairy GM,
    I, too, held my breath perusing through the stunning photos. Thank you for transporting us! I love me a good opulent Vanderbilt house! The grand staircase…magnificent. Marble tub…divine. Chandeliers and the view..swoon and swoon! You look like that Elizabeth in the BOLDINI painting! Perhaps it was you in another life! You make a great accessory in the gardens. This post made me think of Ellie and how she would go castle shopping! Xoxox

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:43 PM

      OH THANK YOU LINDSAY!
      I thought I LOOKED like her too a WEE little bit and your thought CROSSED MY MIND!
      That might explain WHY I think I should be a CONTESSA!
      I LOVED THAT POST TOO on CASTLE SHOPPING……….if only FUNDS would ALLOW!
      THANK YOU!
      XO

  • Cherry
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 9:57 AM

    In answer to your question, “how do I look in the garden?” You looked absolutely divine! Obviously, this was a mansion you could have moved into and felt right at home. I did not realize we had such magnificence this side of the pond. Thanks for sharing and thanks for sharing Eleanor’s address. I’m still wrapping my mind around the fact that her space is no longer occupied on this earth. I will miss her observations of life.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:40 PM

      WE ALL WILL Cherry………….she kept us in line and LAUGHING and CRYING!
      SHE made US realize HOW GOOD WE HAVE IT!We loved her wit and HONESTY.
      Her daughter has made a POST TODAY………….GO PEEK!!
      HAVE SOME DECORUM.
      XX

    • Penelope Bianchi
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 8:12 PM

      What a fabulous trip and whole experience!
      You make it come alive for all of us!
      Anderson Cooper did not “grow up there”; he visited, but the Breakers has been a museum since the late forties!
      He grew up in lots of great places!
      You showed all my favorite places and scenes!!
      You must return!!
      You are right! Iris was there a few days later and stayed with my friend Bettie!!

      What fun!!!

  • Kathy L
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 9:26 AM

    I just returned from 3 days in and near Newport. I visited two more mansions – including The Elms – I too took a photo of Boldini’s Elizabeth in the orange dress – a beautiful painting. Did you do the Servants’ Tour at The Elms – so interesting – owners had a staff of 42 for the summer months. Did you notice that The Elms appears to be 2 stories from the exterior, but it’s actually 5 stories? Innumerable memorable details inside the mansions. Many of the tapestries in the mansions are from the 1500s. My husband attended a Gatsby-themed formal at Rosecliff when he was in business school – I’m jealous. Didn’t you love the waterfront glass solariums in the mansions? So many good restaurants in Newport and the surrounding area too.

    We also took photos in The Elms gardens. You packed the perfect ensembles for touring Newport mansions! What a lovely shop owner – it’s a small world, isn’t it?

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:36 PM

      YES, KATHY I did the SERVANTS QUARTERS!I went back the next day and did it!LOVED The sign about the maids and BUTLER and footman and then the USEFUL MAN!Every home needs a USEFUL MAN and I am LUCKY as I have one!Although, today he is a little down as he realized they SOLD him paint for the INTERIOR.He had spent last week prepping and sanding the OUTSIDE of OUR HOME and PAINTING it ONLY To find out TODAY he has to RE~DO IT!!!!!
      I thought the servants quarters were VERY NICE.LOVED THE BIG WINDOWS to the rooftop!I can imagine there was a bit of window skipping in the heat of SUMMER!XX

  • Daron
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:55 AM

    Oh my goodness those houses! Ok I would have to have more money than God in order to live there but what fun it would be. Like you I to am besotted with lights and their accoutrements- whether they be candlesticks which I definitely have my eye on too, but those chandeliers just blew me out of the water. Did you know that you can now get LED bulbs that are amazing and look like incandescent bulbs but don’t generate a fraction of the heat or costs that those do now. I was really skeptical about them until I tried them. Wow. They work a treat. The only difference though is here in South Africa everything runs on 220 volts and the USA is 110 volts. Moving electrical goods is a pain in the derrière and we can’t move TVs or those sorts of things because we broadcast in PAL and in the USA you broadcast in NEC and nowadays most of your networks air digitally whilst here in Africa generally it is still analog. We do have some satellite channels that are HiDef and digital but that is much more unusual than a regular occurrence. Ah well so is life! Much love xx

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:27 PM

      MY HOUSE IS FULL OF THOSE LIGHTS!
      THE ITALIAN was on it as soon as they came OUT!I am lucky as HE can convert 220 to 110 or vice a versa!I wasNOT in LOVE with them at first but they have grown on me!Our bill has been cut in HALF!!!!!!!!!
      THANK YOU THANK YOU for writing!!!
      XX

  • Our French Oasis
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:25 AM

    Oh I can feel how excited you were and quite rightly so, what a lovely lady but so so funny that she recognised you not by your looks, but by “The Italian”! But in fact I love everything about this post, all the chandeliers, I am in love with chandeliers, and the early 1900’s bathroom, just divine. Thanks for sharing what was obviously quite a trip!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:24 PM

      THE BEST!
      I have you RED FLAGGED in MY JUNK MAIL………..WHY your POSTS end up there is BEYOND ME!Be on the LOOK OUT for me and MY COMMENTS!!!!!XX

  • Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:24 AM

    I love this post! Such great pics! I’m sick you missed the Cliff Walk!
    Next time!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:22 PM

      BUT I READ THE BOOKS!!!!!!!!!!
      I will GO BACK………….P R O M I S E!
      XX

  • Barb Moore
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:19 AM

    What a lovely post!! And what a small, close knit world we live in!! I love that.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:22 PM

      ME TOO BARB!
      ME TOO!!!!!!!
      XX

  • Taste of France
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:15 AM

    What a gorgeous place. I would not want to leave. Ever. Everything delivered forever after.
    I love those buttons. What fun!
    And that tub!
    You have such an eye for the most delightful details. I feel as if I had been there. And a good thing I hadn’t, because, as I said, I would never leave!

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:21 PM

      THESE HOMES Are worth seeing…………..do you ever JUMP the POND and come back to the STATES?You must put NEWPRT on the BUCKET LIST!I cannot wait to go back!
      XX

  • Stella
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 8:03 AM

    What a terrific blog post! You did Newport a great kindness in your effusive descriptions and lovely photos. Loved you and the fish! Can’t thank you enough for mentioning me and my little boutique…so kind. I started following “Lost in Arles” and got a wonderful peek into your house full of treasures. So glad we met and so happy to have such an interesting new friend. There will always be lots to talk about!! And, I adore Banksy……

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:19 PM

      I SEE YOU ADORE BANKSY…….https://designnewport.blogspot.com/2016/09/banksy-el-magnifico.html?showComment=1473808284161#c5035168521505752271
      A FORTUNY PILLOW UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE………..OH MY GOODNESS!
      BLESS YOU……..he will HAVE A BALL opening the BOX!!!!!
      XX

  • Mumbai
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 7:46 AM

    Seems you are blessed with a lot of surprises. What an exciting period. Lucky YOU.

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:17 PM

      Lately,I have been BLESSED.
      HUGS,
      XX

  • stephanie
    · Reply

    September 13, 2016 at 7:37 AM

    well that was another interesting post! 🙂
    i could easily live in rosecliff, no problem!
    amd i’m sure i mentioned it before – i like the bracelet!
    xxx stephanie

    • LA CONTESSA
      · Reply

      September 13, 2016 at 4:16 PM

      YES, ME TOO………….
      We are way OVER DUE for a CHAT!Let’s Skype soon!
      OF course, YOU like the bracelet!
      IT IS BEYOND FABULOUS!!!!!!!!XX

Leave a Reply

Your email is safe with us.
Cancel Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Contessa & Banksy!

Contessa & Banksy

Email:

  • iolacontessa@gmail.com
Subscribe Box

© 2025 · thevintagecontessa.blog · designed by ITVida · Privacy Policy

Prev Next