MY HOME IS A STAGE SET!

September 9, 2019 121 Comments

“WE DON’T DO TRENDS,OR THEMES.

IT’S A HOME.

NOT A STAGE SET.”

Adelaide Bragg,interior designer

The ITALIAN with his SALMON READY TO BE SMOKED!

APOLOGIZES for THE NO SHIRT LOOK!

Just know HE would NEVER sit down at a table without a shirt on!

IT WAS A HOT Northern California DAY!

THAT BLUE TUB HAS A STORY!

SHORT VERSION

SIX FEET LONG, CAST IRON, BRAND NEW for a mere $100.00!

I DONOT DO BLUE!

Nor, do I jump up and down when he tells me it has holes for handrails to get in and out!

TODAY, I AM THRILLED WITH THAT DETAIL!

WHEN CAN THEY BE INSTALLED!?

THAT ITALIAN IS ALWAYS SAVING MONEY!

Poor Thing MARRIED ME!

He could be a RICH MAN by NOW!

BUT IN MY DEFENSE I AM A GOOD SHOPPER!

(Like my CAFTANS in this POST head to HER CAFTAN SITE! There are still a few on SALE and BELIEVE ME the SALE PRICES ARE BEYOND GOOD!)

THIS GAL has dents ALL OVER HER BODY!

SEE HER KNEE?

CONCAVE!

SHE WAS A MERE TEN DOLLARS at THE FACTORY!

SHE WEIGHS A TON.

THE ITALIAN WAS NOT TOO HAPPY ABOUT MOVING HER FROM MY TRUCK TO THE GARDEN, BUT HE DID IT!

A ONE MAN SHOW!

(I SAVED HER FROM BEING GARBAGE or a Garden Wall!)

NOT SURE I AGREE WITH THE QUOTE UP TOP!

About your HOME NOT BEING A STAGE SET!

But to each His OWN!

Her decorating is BEAUTIFUL I GOOGLED HER!

MY ITALIAN once told me,

“THIS IS NOT A SHOP!”

I BEG TO DIFFER AS IT IS MY HOME AND I HAVE TO LOOK AT IT SEVEN DAYS A WEEK!

BETTER LOOK BETTER THAN A SHOP!

I NEED TO BE ENTERTAINED!

I NEED FOOD FOR THE SOUL!

WE have made a NEST that stimulates THE SOUL and NEVER GETS OLD!

I use to RESCUE bits and BOBS from landfills on Garbage Pick up days!

MADE ME FEEL GOOD!

THAT was a HARD HABIT TO STOP!

But even I admit we have run out of space………….

WELL, FURNITURE SPACE THAT IS!

I can ALWAYS SQUEEZE A PORTRAIT OR A PAINTING on A WALL.

BOOKS go on FOOTSTOOLS NOW which I COLLECT!

They even look good in the POWDER ROOM!

Just refer to that IMAGE as CONTESSA CLUTTER!

If you have a pedestal sink it looks great underneath it!

Just think THAT SIGN could say HOG OUT!

THINK I’ll CHANGE IT from DOG!

Just in case I feel a NIGHT AT THE OPERA would be appropriate!

I CAN SWAN ABOUT!

A FEW BEADS FOR THE BOD!

Thats the church I was married in actually its a BASILICA.

Construction began in 1013.

Michelangelo covered the facade in mattresses during the war with PISA!

THAT’S YOUR HISTORY FUN FACT FOR THE DAY!

AND YES I USE CANDELABRA’s to hold ACCESSORIES!

THE WEDDING PARAPHERNALIA is framed in lucite in our walk~ in closet.

We were married in 1986 in FLORENCE, ITALY.

The penny in the RIGHT SHOE had to be YOUR BIRTHDATE!

SO, for me it was 1960.

MY ITALIAN was connected to THE GUCCI FAMILY and FACTORY so SHOES were made SPECIALLY FOR ME for my wedding DAY!

I was BEYOND THRILLED as there were NOT many FLAT GOOD LOOKING SHOES AROUND IN THE 80’s!

PLUS, WHO ELSE HAS A PAIR OF ONE OF A KIND GUCCI SHOES?

THE OLD STONE SINK that was at the side of the road in three pieces in TUSCANY!

SAVED THAT TOO FROM THE LANDFILL!

IT’s about 300 years old so they say!

THAT ITALIAN welded an iron band to hold it and re-surfaced the inside than he drilled the hole in the middle of the sink as the OTHER HOLE was in the LEFT CORNER and VERY VERY SMALL!

MY GARDEN PLUM!

JEWELS IN THE MASTER BATH!

So, there is a peek into MY WORLD!

MY LA BOHEME!

HOPE YOU ENJOYED THE SHOW!

121 Comments

Leave your reply.

Val
· Reply

September 11, 2019 at 7:35 AM

A Home filled to the Brim with LOVE in all Shapes and Forms. Oh! am I the ONLY one that SWOONED over the Cobb Salad. My Lord Contessa- PERFECTION:)

XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:10 AM
  
  YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE TO MENTION IT!!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Mumbai
· Reply

September 11, 2019 at 1:46 AM

a home should always be a home and not a stage set. I don’t feel cozy in the cool modern interior style, which has nothing to say about the owners. Each piece has a story and a memory. Even for me it would be a bit too much but I like it and it’s YOU!
warmhearted, eccentric and brave to adhere on your style. And it is indeed a way to
feed your soul and feel happy when you enter your nest.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:14 AM
  
  THANK YOU MUMBAI……….hope you are relaxing and enjoying THAT COUNTRY!!!
  ONE MUST BE HAPPY TO ENTER ONE’S HOME THAT IS FOR SURE!
  MY Biggest problem is the piles of paper that pile up!!!
  Hard to rid myself of clippings, photos, thank you’s, bills,etc!
  ANYHOW……..we all have little MESSES!!!IT is part of LIVING!
  XX
Caroline Walker
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 10:25 PM

I perked up! Here was another uplifting story from La Contessa. What bliss. It was a delightful tour. I love where you keep your jewelry but it would not work for me. Would you be willing to ask your enthusiastic followers where they keep their jewelry. I’m sure there are many who would like to know how to tackle this problem. Many thanks.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:08 AM
  
  I think you speak of the MANNEQUIN in the bathroom?
  The Best way is to have a piece of furniture dedicated to storage either with drawers or a glass case with shelving SO YOU CAN SEE WHAT YOU OWN!I have all the above and the GLASS CASE is my FAVORITE!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Kaye
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 6:24 PM

Your home is like a treasure chest. Every room holds special treats for the eye. You are blessed and you share that blessing with your friends. Thank you!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:06 AM
  
  WELCOME!!!
  THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMENT AND READING!!
  XX
Sandra Sallin _ A Part From My Art
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:48 PM

Fabulous, fabulous, fabulous. Everyone has said it all before me. A feast for the eyes!
Allegra Bridges
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:31 PM

Elizabeth, I can only describe your home as Too Much of a Good Thing! Thank you so much for the fabulous tour!??
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:05 AM
  
  MILLIE GRAZIE!
  LOVED THIS COMMENT!!!
  A LITTLE BIT OF VENICE HERE!!!
  IN THE COSTUME DEPARTMENT!
  XX
Jill James
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:12 PM

What a treat to enjoy a peek in to your glorious abode. Your home and its collections are exquisite, a true artists endeavour. Isn’t it wonderful to be surrounded by items that have a special meaning in our lives, rather than fashionable store bought things .
The lucite area with those Gucci shoes and wedding items is so special and must bring great joy. You and your Italian perfectly compliment each other, creative and practical.
You have inspired me to remove some of my special things from cupboards and put them on show so I can enjoy them each day. Thank you Elizabeth.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:04 AM
  
  ENJOY THE STUFF……………it’s IMPORTANT!
  XX
cindy
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 4:56 PM

I have a bit of the disease…ask my children…I keep telling myself I don’t need anything ….My house is more spare but ohhhh the closets and garages are full. Need to work on that. Only the Contessa can have her home be her stage!
Lillian Plummer
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 4:13 PM

Beautiful interesting post
Elizabeth. Your home is filled with amazing items all with a story to tell. Just keep on doing what you are doing!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:02 AM
  
  YES, I WILL………………….as its in my DNA!
  I cannot find that photo of BANKSY BOY you mentioned the other day!Will keep searching!
  XX
Leslie Lord
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 4:02 PM

Love these little vignettes of your lovely home!
I think saving the free stuff is brilliant and you have found some real gems!!!
PPP
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 3:41 PM

Ma Chere Contessa,
You are a spectacular one of a kind and your lush home is a lively beautiful colorful stage for your full life. ..rich with love for family and friends…
So loved your images of shiny fresh salmon, jewelry hanging on candelabra s and custom made Gucci slippers.
…and stories that perk up my ears.
Lucky me to get a peek into the theater of Contessa’s life!
Merci beaucoup…can’t wait for the next installment!!

PPP

How do you keep everything sparkling??
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 8:01 AM
  
  TEAM EFFORT THESE DAYS!!
  XX
Victoria Thorp
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 3:37 PM

A gorgeous “Feast for the Eye”.
Linda Clark
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 1:01 PM

Love your home ! So enjoy your stories the blue tub , the sink along dude the road . Treasures !!
Thank you
yancey williams
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 12:18 PM

Thank you, thank you for sharing more of your gorgeous home. I have always wanted to see more. It did not disappoint, not one little bit!

I need to say three things…
You had me at “jewels in the master bath.”
That is the best cat photograph I’ve ever seen. In. My Life.
Never apologize for a bare chested Italian!

Thank you, again, for this marvelous treat!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 7:59 AM
  
  I HAVE A BETTER CAT PHOTO TO SEND YOU!
  MANY THANKS ADORE YOUR COMMENT!
  XX
Ms. Mary
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 11:48 AM

Beatiful pictures of your gem of a home. Banksy looks so happy.
I love the penny in the shoe! I am now searching for a 1991 penny to bring with me for my little dove. We leave on Saturday, big day is next week-9-19-19. Love to G! <3 <3 <3
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 11, 2019 at 7:56 AM
  
  YES!FIND THAT PENNY!
  I WILL BE THINKING ABOUT YOU!
  SEND ME SOME PHOTOS WHEN YOU GET BACK!!
  XX
Fiona Dorst
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 10:52 AM

I can’t believe you left out the Saint in the Shower?!?!?!?!? Love you and your home!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 11:29 AM
  
  Were your ears BURNING THIS MORNING!!!
  I was talking about YOU!
  I need to get over there is the SALE still ON??
  XX
lisa thomson
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 9:57 AM

Fantastic, Contessa! All of it. Love the myriad of photos. The wedding memorabilia behind plexi-glass, brilliant. Love all the color and layers. Your Italian is very ingenious.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 11:31 AM
  
  THANK YOU!
  IF the closet was THE PROPER SIZE for a CONTESSA the dress would have been there TOO!
  Instead its in a BOX somewhere!
  XX
Rosemarie
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 9:57 AM

Good morning Elizabeth

Too funny – I’m reading your blog and enjoying all the pics/treasures/sparkle/stories. My husband comes into our living room and said I have TOO much stuff in here. There’s hardly anything in it! – I just moved the cat’s scratching post in yesterday. Then he says you have a pile here and a pile there = there’s too much stuff in here. So I told him to go into another room. ha ha. I should have said sit and look at these pics.

Our living room is now full of flowers from the garden.

I love what the Italian said – I only have to sleep here – do as you please.

One could spend hours at your place exploring your treasures.

I hope you have the pic of the Italian with the salmon on a wall.

The B.C. artist Emily Carr didn’t have enough floor space in her house so she hung some of her chairs from the ceiling.

The Italian is rich – he has you in his life = priceless.

I shall enjoy viewing your post a few more times to take in all the treasures.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 11:33 AM
  
  Perhaps you need to SIT HIM DOWN TONIGHT and give him YOUR IPAD and SAY HERE!!!!!!!!
  LOOK HOW LUCKY YOU ARE!!!!COULD BE WORSE!!!
  XX
Robin in Umbria
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 9:22 AM

Your house definitely looks like a stage set. I love how EVERYTHING has a story. GP’s salmon looks devine!! Does he smoke it in his pizza oven? Love your wedding memorabilia, and your Gucci shoes. Love the church you were married in- such great views. XXo Robin
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 11:48 AM
  
  NO, he has a smoker………….
  YES< EVERYTHING ALMOST!!!! XOXO
Katie Clooney
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 9:20 AM

Hello, dear Contessa… Thank you for the tour of your beautiful casa. I must say, I am in awe over those Gucci shoes! Have a wonderful week.
Bob Schulenberg
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 9:20 AM

Was it Albert Einstein who said “if a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind what is an empty desk a sign of?” Your domain is an inspirational Maximalists’ Paradise!!
As Tony and Hutton declare “More is More“!!
Go for it!
You went for it!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:29 AM
  
  THANK YOU MISTER BOB I AM HONORED.
  I adored TONY D and still ADORE HUTTON and his wife RUTH who I have been SO lucky to meet on a few occasions!!
  I think they would APPROVE!
  XX
Gabi
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 9:12 AM

Love all your photos as always Zia, for once I get the chance to reply from my computer, so hopefully you will receive my message this time. You look gorgeous and I just love Banksy on the porch…I know your house really well, but I miss being there and looking at your photos makes me feel I’m not so far away. Hope one day not too far I’ll be able to come with tha man who decants wine. Love you
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:31 AM
  
  LOVED HEARING FROM YOU!
  YES, bring THAT ITALIAN MAN who decants VINO!!!!!!!!!!!
  BANKSY ESPETTA!!!!
  XOXO
Mary Ann Pickett
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 8:43 AM

Lots to love like the 300-year-old sink and the candelabra for jewelry display! You are definitely unique and full of glamor!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:30 AM
  
  I keep hearing THAT!!
  XX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:39 AM

So fun, Elizabeth! I love focusing on all the details and every sparkly pin. And Giampeiro is a charmer! You were having lots of people for dinner that day! At least 20? Your posts are always so wonderful. xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:27 AM
  
  NO people he makes the salmon to keep in zip locked bags………its SMOKED so a little goes along way!HE WAS BUILDING INVENTORY!
  XX
Nancy Brantley
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:22 AM

OH MY, I HAVE MET MY TWIN!!! What’s clutter? What’s dust?….oh, dust is what protects my treasures. Clutter is what makes each piece compliment each other!!? You know I’m thankful for a roof over my head but I think shutters and windows and doors make me even more thankful on my home…or is that too much clutter on my home!?? Well, I live here and I LOVE ALL THAT CLUTTER!!! OR SHOULD I LIVE BY SOME RULE OF… WHAT IS IT CALLED??….PROFESSIONALLY DECORATED? WHAT IS THAT?..REALLY?? I really enjoyed this post today!! Lovely things in your home!!! Thanks for the tour and connecting with me!!! And, what a lucky bride to wear custom GUCCI SHOES! Well I could carry on but I will leave by saying I LOVE FOR YOU BEING YOU!! LOVE READING YOUR BLOG!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:26 AM
  
  THIS MADE MY MONTH NANCY!
  IT’s ALL GOOD and whoever started THAT TREND of “CLEANING OUT THINGS”is living a DULL DULL LIFE in our opinion!!!
  What is the point to collect all your LIFE and give it away when you have the time to sit and stare and enjoy it and share stories of acquiring it!
  MAKES ME SAD!
  XX
Lisa White
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:18 AM

Standing and clapping as I shout, “BRAVA! ENCORE!! ENCORE!” I remember going back stage with my father at the Lyric Opera House before a performance. The stagehands let me see behind the velvet curtain. Your post took me back to that time. I am seeing the magic behind the curtain. What an abundance of joy and beauty! I love all the details….the fabric form of a woman’s body draped in a in a beautiful velvet wrap and encrusted with sparkling brooches. The elegant velvet opera coat embroidered in scrolls of golden thread…standing patiently waiting for you to slip into it…and that large floral crown made for a Garden Queen to wear! The stone woman with the dented knee stands bravely but happily in your garden…she knows she escaped an ignominious fate. Then, there is the Hog Crossing…yes…change the sign..or just get a new one…Do NOT LET OUT THE DOGS AND HOGS….underneath…or the chickens! The concrete sink…that Italian of yours is so talented. Not just handsome…but a fix it, lift it, move it, cook it, sing it and pay for it TREASURE OF A MAN! He is the greatest treasure you found! THEN…there is that little nugget you slipped in about that Handsome Italian of yours……GUCCI? Did you mention GUCCI? Why yes…I think you did! A couture pair of hand made GUCCI shoes…just for you! WOW! I hope you still have them…and the penny inside with your birth year. (I never heard of that tradition, but I really like it!) I am completely charmed once again! I woke up looking forward to reading your blog…I knew I would escape into another world. I was transported to another time…in an opera house….with my father….long ago. THANK YOU!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:22 AM
  
  THIS brought TEARS to my EYES LISA……………
  TO think my silly little blog transported YOU away with your FATHER gave me such a FEELING of JOY!
  I hope today is better than yesterday as I know you had a rough day!
  BIG HUG!
  XOXO
kim
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:16 AM

Elizabeth, I’ve been waiting for you to do a post of the house. It’s a treasure and unlike anyone else’s home. I am so inspired how you use everything you wear as part of the decor. Why not? I love seeing all the beauty. You have used the most humble things like the sink and made them part of the mix along with elegant bits like your frames and glasses. I love it. My very favorite spot is your kitchen- and we need a tour of it next. Love this and hoping I get to see you soon. xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:20 AM
  
  THE KITCHEN IS THE HEART OF THE HOME!
  I feel that’s the ONLY ROOM of the HOUSE I SHOW!
  A TOUR OF THE KITCHEN…………….does that mean I have to OPEN DRAWERS?!!!
  XOXO
Ellie's friend
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:10 AM

Thanks so much for the glimpse of your treasures. I love it!
P.S. I’m going to adopt a few of your tricks.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:18 AM
  
  GOOD!
  I BET I KNOW WHICH ONES!!
  XX
judith
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:09 AM

I loved all of the pictures. I wish you would do a post on your wedding accouterments in the lucite, and include some more wedding photos. Then you could do another post on your closet. Thanks for sharing and entertaining all of us out here.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 9:17 AM
  
  REALLY………MY WEDDING PHOTOS?!!
  OKAY, will give that some thought!
  AS TO THE CLOSET……….YOU would be VERY DISAPPOINTED!As you can imagine it is NOT BIG ENOUGH!!!
  XX
Katie
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 7:07 AM

We always say ‘more is more’! It’s wonderful that you are getting so much joy from your home and surroundings. It’s fun seeing your beautiful collections and all the ways you display them.
Pierrette Weir
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:36 AM

No apologies needed. Along with your wonderful treasures the picture of the shirtless Italian was a treat.
Pierrette (77 years young).
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:53 AM
  
  GLAD YOU ENJOYED THE VIEW!!
  EVEN MORE HAPPY YOU ARE HERE READING AND COMMENTING!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Jeane
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:27 AM

My favorite post from you(or anyone) ever! Seeing your beautiful treasures inspires my design soul. I have a very slightly different aesthetic from you but we share the love of treasure and lots of it. I wish more people would be more individual in their decor and less playing by the rules. And that goes for your personal style too. I loooove the jewels and crowns and caftans and shoes you wear. Air kisses!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:52 AM
  
  YOU MADE MY DAY JEANE!
  AIR KISSES BACK AT YA!!!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

September 10, 2019 at 5:24 AM

VIA EMAIL:
Hi Elizabeth
I woke to a new post and I just LOVE all your treasures, as I am a collector also.
There is always room for one more.
You asked what we would like you to write about…. Please write about your jewelry those gold bracelets, barque pearls, All the interesting pieces you own.
The shop were you purchased a gift for a birthday or Christmas. I never saw so much jewelry and the owner of the shop displays things so well a man…maybe in La.
We are going back to Italy in 2 weeks this time the Amalfi Coast I am so looking forward to the trip. Then on the way home we are flying into London and staying there for 4 days. Time to see the Crown Jewels!!!
Enjoy your DAY
Shirl
Coty
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:07 AM

Fabulous Elizabeth!! Your home is much more glamorous than my pad, but, we have the STUFF!!
Love you! xxx Your my (much taller) twin on the other side of the world! xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:48 AM
  
  LOVE HEARING FROM YOU COTY!!!
  I KNOW WE ARE TWO PEAS IN A POD!!!
  I owe you a phone call!!!
  XOXO
Lisa the Sequinist
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 5:02 AM

I love seeing your house! I’m in awe of that enormous sink you found in Tuscany. I truly love the baby chandelier over the coffee machine. And my goodness, Banksy is far too adorable holding court at the entrance. Like Mithra, I’m enchanted by your bespoke Gucci shoes that are a daily reminder of that truly special day. What a lovely life you lead, my friend. xxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:51 AM
  
  I was SO HAPPY finding that sink LISA I ran all the way home as they were selling them for A LOT OF MONEY at that time!People used them for PLANTERS in their GARDENS NOW!
  SISSINGHURST HAS ONE!!!
  He was not SURE HE could LIFT it even in pieces!I told him to take his SISTERS!I stayed home with THE BOYS!I was a VERY HAPPY MAMMMA when they came back with THE GOODS!!
  XX
Mithra Ballesteros
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 4:39 AM

When we blog, we never know what little tidbit is going to strike a chord, do we. For me today it was the shoes. How wonderful that you have them on display but protected from dust, looking nearly pristine as the day you walked down the aisle of that ancient church. Very enjoyable read!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:46 AM
  
  ONLY WORN ONCE!
  THANK YOU MITHRA!
  XX
Nancy
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 4:36 AM

Elizabeth,
What a great piece to read! You have a life people dream of having! I love reading about how you decorate etc. very interesting! Keep writing! I love this blog!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:45 AM
  
  I was going to do JUST PHOTOS but then I had to ADD SOME STORIES!
  Thrilled there are a few of YOU OUT there that like what I DO!
  XX
luci
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 4:32 AM

You photos make me happy! I love your “plum”

Luci
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:44 AM
  
  THAT MAKES TWO OF US!
  THANKS FOR READING!!
  XX
Hilda Smith
· Reply

September 10, 2019 at 1:39 AM

OMG.. I love seeing more of your home. Thanks for the details..you have an incredible collection of treasures. And The Italian is one of those. Hold on tightly to him..xxxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:43 AM
  
  WILL DO!
  HE IS IRREPLACEABLE!!!
  XX
Josephine Floyd
· Reply

September 9, 2019 at 11:36 PM

Fantastically gorgeous, I can see I still have room for my treasures though the man in my life say ‘enough’.
Colour and delicious finds maketh a home . You have done us proud.
On the farm, no money, huge mortgage needed to buy a tractor, instead I fell in love with an oriental rug, home came first and for a while I said ‘ here lies our tractor’
Adore your posts spunky lady
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:42 AM
  
  GREAT STORY!
  THOSE MEN SOMETIMES SLOW US DOWN………but they have their reasons!AGAIN they areNOT at HOME as MUCH AS WE WERE!
  THE ITALIAN said, “NO PIG!”
  WHO saves his apple core or banana peel every day for THAT LITTLE GUY who waits in the PANTRY for the door to OPEN at the end of the day!???
  THAT BOND IS STRONG!
  XX
Taste of France
· Reply

September 9, 2019 at 11:32 PM

I had a dear friend who looked like Sean Connery and who was an expert on China. His large apartment was stuffed with Chinese antiques–he had tables on top of tables, up to the ceiling. He just couldn’t walk away from a great piece. By comparison, you still have lots of room left.
Maximalist is never boring. What differentiates your home from others of the maximalist style is that you have stories to go with each item. You didn’t just go on a e-commerce click storm. I couldn’t keep up, though, with the cleaning. No open shelves in the kitchen for me–too much work!
The best thing about your blog, though, is the love that shines through between you and your Italian.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:39 AM
  
  OPEN SHELVES requires one to USE and rotate A LOT!
  TRUE this home is a collection of 40 plus years for me…………it did not happen overnight!
  Fun Fact I can recall where and when and in some cases WHO I purchased the stuff from!Or SAVED from LANDFILL!
  THANK YOU!
  YES, after 34 years WE STILL ADORE EACH OTHER NOT TO SAY WE DONOT HAVE OUR MOMENTS!!
  XX
Loree
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September 9, 2019 at 11:25 PM

Wow Elizabeth. I love how you put things together and what I love even more is that all the things around you have a unique story. I love the one about Michelangelo and the mattresses. I’ve been writing a lot in my notebooks but I never seem to get round to posting on my blog. Sometimes I am not sure what people what to read about. But I’ll make an effort. Looks like it will rain today. Maybe that will help me get into the groove.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:34 AM
  
  What is good here is YOU are writing!
  I too find it difficult to come up with a topic that will please everyone!Maybe create a Journal of your LIFE on your BLOG!Write for YOU not others……….
  I KEEP SENDING PEOPLE WITH THE BLOGGER COMMENT PROBLEM TO YOU!
  YOU MAY BECOME THAT GIRL ON THAT ISLAND WHO CAN ASSIST WITH COMPUTER TECHNIQUES!
  How about writing about a typical MALTESE DINNER!
  XX
  - Arell
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    September 10, 2019 at 3:30 PM
    
    Dearest Contessa, Your home brings so much joy to everyone, whether in person or on your blog. I can feel it jumping from the pages. (Or computer screen!) And always with the best energy. You live your life like art and joy is your medium. I am always inspired! XO
    - LA CONTESSA
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      Author
      
      September 11, 2019 at 7:54 AM
      
      THANK YOU ARELL……………THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
      XX
Parnassus
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September 9, 2019 at 10:04 PM

Hello Contessa, Every one of these photos is 100% you, and so fascinating to explore for all the personal treasures and hidden items. It must be fun to live with all of these items in view so that you can recall their stories every time they catch your eye or that you use them. In Taiwan I have to put most of my stuff away, because there is too much black, oily dust to have so many things crowded on display.
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:28 AM
  
  SORRY to hear that JIM!I do have to tell YOU AGAIN HOW MUCH I ADORE those little piggies you sent me!I have them on a silver plated stand with feet and there is enough room for my water glass or coffee cup so they all SHARE THE SPACE!They make me smile……..so THANK YOU!
  YOU KNOW ME PRETTY DARN WELL FOR NEVER MEETING ME IN PERSON!XX
Kathy L
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September 9, 2019 at 7:23 PM

Your home is a feast for the eyes, as they say! I can see how much it nurtures your soul. Thank you for sharing so many photos of your accessorizing specialty.
PS: What woman doesn’t love a handsome, shirtless man who can COOK?!?
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:24 AM
  
  TRUE!!!
  HE LOVES DOING IT……..the cooking that is!
  One day a small restaurant should be in his future after he RETIRES!
  Me as the HOSTESS. The ITALIAN as THE CHEF!
  Could be a good comedy!
  XX
Penelope Bianchi
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September 9, 2019 at 6:29 PM

Divine beyond! It is like a biography of your life! Mine too!

Every single thing has a story! You have created your own Paradise of interesting and colorful things……the animals are divine also!

XXXOOO
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:20 AM
  
  THANK YOU you made my DAY!
  XOXO
Pipistrello
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September 9, 2019 at 5:32 PM

Ciao Contessa!

What a divine whirl around your domain! So much to poke around at!! I love a good house tour and left to my own devices would love to go through people’s drawers, so thank you for obligingly leaving them open for us!!

Too much to comment on but you’re looking pretty fabulous right now and The Italian looks in top form as well. I guess his stamp on your home is in the foundational department – tiles and beams and what not – and not in the decorative…his love for you must know no bounds as not every man could live with such fripperies and bibelots!!!

Tell your maid from me that I’m impressed with her dusting, hahaha!!

Baci bella xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:19 AM
  
  YES, lots of dust not my FORTE!
  The ITALIAN once said, “I only have to sleep here do as you please”when I thought the bedroom was too Feminine.HE IS A GOOD GUY!He does get cranky when he has to spread out in the kitchen however when its PASTA making time!I don’t BELIEVE in a SURFACE NOT BEING COVERED!I could have used little bit MORE cabinetry!
  XX
Juliet
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September 9, 2019 at 4:00 PM

Dearest Contessa – when I first saw your home on the BLOG I was fascinated. After being fortunate enough to see it up close and personal I’m even more so. Each piece has a unique story and purpose. All the world’s a stage and you are a star player. xo
Loreen
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September 9, 2019 at 3:50 PM

No shirt! I didn’t even notice the fish!? Always love your pictures,posts, blog…they make my day! ?
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:12 AM
  
  SO HAPPY YOU ENJOYED!!
  I DO TRY for a bit of HUMOR!!!
  XX
Jan Tuckerman
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September 9, 2019 at 3:16 PM

My dear Elizabeth. You are beyond cool. Adore being your amigo. I feel like it’s peeps like you that know really how to COLLECT. it’s in our blood for sure, huh? Takes one to know one. Love you more, jan
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  September 10, 2019 at 6:12 AM
  
  YES, in our blood for sure!
  Love you back!
  XX
Cara
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September 9, 2019 at 1:56 PM

A treasure house! One could be absorbed for days looking at all the bibelots and bling!

Feeling very grateful Dorian spared us, but so sad for the Bahamas.

Thank you, Elizabeth, for showing us more of your house!
- Rae Ecklund
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  September 9, 2019 at 4:35 PM
  
  ELIZABETH! STOPPIT!!! How can your photos get any better!!! Just when I thought I had seen and enjoyed your beautiful home, and all …. I am seeing new and more!! The photos are wonderful. I think you could spend a lifetime just pointing your camera at any corner of your house and posting it as a treasured still life. You know what I loved among all the treasures … ? That wedding photo of you and Giampeiro. That is so beautiful. Your dress. His confident style. It says, “This is my life and it has stood the changing times and becomes more engaging with each passing year.” We get it! You bring much joy to all who know you.