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November 9, 2020 85 Comments

YOUR CONTESSA with a WITCH HAT!

Let’s count the wrinkles around the eyes!

I can recall JUST YESTERDAY there were ONLY THREE around the eyes!

Looks like a PATTERN all the way to the neck!

EYES definitely sitting on THE EYE LIDS!

Scar on upper lip was a BEAUTIFUL BLACK MOLE I had to remove at AGE 16!

The scar has gotten Bigger and Bigger as the years march on………

I remember my AUNT was all for it as my MOM was NOT too PRO!

I would LOVE TO HAVE A BEAUTY MARK NOW!

Guess I could have one TATTOOED on!

What do you think of this TATOO PHASE that has been around now for about 15 YEARS!?

I gave it three years MAX……….I WAS SO WRONG!

I had a little luncheon on OCTOBER 31,ST.

Heidi who came years ago to one of my INSTAGRAM LUNCHEONS and her two GORGEOUS daughters drove up from the Santa Cruz area.

WE had been chatting on the phone and thought it would be a safe change of scenery for ALL…..

I knew Heidi FOLLOWED JULIET’s BLOG MAKE MINE A SPRITZER from the COMMENT SECTION……….

(THE THINGS ONE CAN DISCOVER FROM THE COMMENTS!)

SO, I invited JULIET to come for DESSERT as I knew that would be DELICIOUS as HEIDI offered to BAKE a GLUTEN FREE TREAT!I did NOT tell HEIDI about JULIET and I kept her a surprise AS I KNEW THE TWO WOULD ENJOY EACH OTHER!I think JULIET had purchased one of HEIDI’S paintings at one point.

WE BLOGGERS ARE ALL INTERTWINED these days which makes for LOADS MORE MERRIMENT!

WE ARE LIKE ONE EXTENDED FAMILY withOUT the DRAMA!

SO ENTER JULIET with her SPECIAL APPEARANCE!

I LOVE MATCH MAKING, meaning introducing others to people I think they will ENJOY!

WE had a nice lunch under the YELLOW umbrella………

It was DELIGHFUL to JUST SIT and CHAT………

The girls straighten me out on RACHAEL ROY verses RACHAEL RAY!!!

I thought it was JUST ONE PERSON!

Sometimes and OFTEN these days I MISS TRENDS and or IMPORTANT PEOPLE STUFF……..

Heidi and her paintings can be found RIGHT HERE JUST TAP!

I your CONTESSA can be found A TAP AWAY HERE!

Juliet who has renovated yet again ANOTHER HOME can be found HERE!!!

THE THREE GRACES TRYING TO DISTANCE AND ACCOMMODATE THE PHOTOGRAPHERS WISHES!

SIR WINSTON getting into the SHOT……..he is NEVER far from me!

MAGNOLIA WREATH made from MY TREE!

WE took pre-orders for GARDEN CLUB for THE HOLIDAYS………..sorry to SAY WE ARE SOLD OUT!

Earlier in the week I had a little FLEA MARKET for GARDEN CLUB.

It was a warm day and sales were steady!

I am going to be BOLD HERE PEOPLE but I WANT TO KNOW IS THIS A CALIFORNIA THING or WHAT?

NOT even a glass of water was offered.

A SNACK lunch was made for the GARDEN DOCENTS as they were there from 11 till 2.

I was there from 9:30 AM until 2:30 pm.

I had brought some water and a GF BAR just in case I needed to EAT!

NO LUNCHES for the TWO OF US?

Perhaps, you would think OH she did not know about US!

SHE KNEW ABOUT ME AND My Co-Partner………

What has happen to MANNERS and KINDNESS……….

You know the ladies traveling from GARDEN to GARDEN

would have loved a sip of something cool to drink as the weather was in the high SEVENTIES!

TELL ME IS THIS CALIFORNIA TODAY or is it I’M TOO BUSY AND CANNOT BE BOTHERED ATTITUDE?

WE were HOSTING another CLUB.

They had water for us last month isn’t it CUTE!?.

If this STRIKES a NERVE with YOU let me know in the COMMENT section ……..I’m just curious!

THE ITALIAN WAS HORRIFIED!

HE is ALWAYS MISTER HOSPITALITY NO MATTER what the situation.

Meanwhile one of the docents was my friend and she shared with me!

KIND AND GENEROUS.

She ate the CRACKER and a few grapes. I got the rest of the grapes!

Which brings me to INSTAGRAM………….

AS YOU all know I was HACKED THERE……..SO AM NO MORE!

However,I DO RUN THE ORINDA GARDEN CLUB account!

WHICH YOU can SEE by Clicking or TAPPING,or HIT that RETURN TAB HERE!

NOW LISTEN TO ME NOW…………….PLEASE!

THIS IS NOT MY PERSONAL ACCOUNT AND FEED!

YES, I have slipped a couple of photos in there but it had to do with FLORAL FABRIC or an ORINDA RESIDENT.

I will be passing this account on to another woman…………..at some point in the future.

SO, I CANNOT COMMENT IN MY NORMAL WAY for example none of these!!!!!!!!!!!!

I MUST ACT MATURE AND PROFESSIONAL!

(I do not know if that is possible!WE SHALL SEE!)

BUT if you like on occasion and comment I will be sure to POP OVER TO YOUR FEED TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE UP TOO AND SAY BOO from time to time!AS I mentioned before I want to take a BREAK from INSTAGRAM until at least the first of the YEAR!

I APPRECIATE ALL YOUR NOTES and TRACKING ME DOWN EMAILS!

YOU MAKE ME SMILE ON A DAILY BASIS!

I REALLY DO APPRECIATE THE FACT YOU MISS ME!!!!!!

Who would have thought a gal stuck at home most days who would DON an OUTFIT for THE DAY and share on her feed would create such a FAN CLUB!!

NOT ME!

THANK YOU SO MUCH!

I would like to PLUG my friend FIFI who has a new magazine out DEVOTED to PETS.

TO SUBSCRIBE and see what that is ALL ABOUT head to her website HERE!

20% will go to animal charities.

This is a WoMAN who really cares about the FUR BABIES in OUR WORLD!

If you can help support HER CAUSE I know she would APPRECIATE IT as I DO!

IT would make a WoNDERFUL holiday gift for Grandchildren or Friends!

AS A CHILD I wrote a magazine called PET MAGAZINE.

IT cost 25 cents.

MY FATHER would take it to the office and make my copies.

I would mail out to my SUBSCRIBERS!

It was my MONTHLY EXCITEMENT!

As I recall; I don’t think I have any copies to share but I would draw animals and write little Funnies in a bubble above their heads!

SIMILAR to what I do TODAY HERE ON THE BLOG!

I made BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP with celery root and that other BAREFOOT CONTESSA’s Eggplant Gratin for the LUNCH LADIES………….

HEAT oven to 425 degrees.Bake for 10 minutes then turn oven down to 375 degrees and bake for 20 minutes.

Fry eggplant slices in oil until golden.Both sides.Drain on paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Mix in a bowl the ricotta, egg,half & half,& Parmesan.Salt & Pepper.

MAKE YOUR OWN MARINARA SAUCE!I KNOW YOU CAN HANDLE THIS……..

One can of tomato sauce and add crushed garlic.Let sauce thicken on stove top.

Good olive oil, for frying
3/4 pound eggplant, unpeeled, sliced 1/2-inch thick
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1 extra-large egg
1/4 cup half-and-half
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup good bottled marinara sauce

I put them in individual ceramic dishes which worked out just fine then I made a Bigger pie plate one for the visiting son and his girlfriend which THE ITALIAN forgot in the oven………….as he climbed into bed I said did you remember the eggplant dish in the oven?!OPPS, and out of bed he rolled only to be heard down the hall ,

“Anyone still hungry?!”

YES, I COULD HAVE KILLED HIM!

BANKSY the TEA CUP was caught going out his special door!I thought you might enjoy!

IT is only 7 second………and YES that is me hanging on the wall about age 5.

Celeste W.do you recall what color that DRESS was?

THIS IS A TEST FROM THE VINTAGE CONTESSA!!

XXX

85 Comments

Leave your reply.

Elizabeth Walker
· Reply

November 28, 2020 at 8:38 AM

Your accessories look so beautiful!
Best Belt Review
Pipistrello
· Reply

November 14, 2020 at 4:08 PM

Ciao Bella!

Banky’s door is a peach of a thing. I like the un-door-ness of the wall with its beautiful mirror. You are looking pretty gorgeous right now, and it is a treat to see a photo of ladies together sporting sweeping hemlines. I’m so over trying not to look at the nether regions of ladies clad in lycra leggings or the knobbly knees and acres of bare skin now that the weather has warmed up. I’m very old-fashioned about that.

Ditto the tattoo situation. The leg and thigh tattoos are also proudly on display right now, and it amused me no end to see shivering souls in the winter-time, with bare arms, ankles and backs, so determined were they that the world had to see that yes, they were cool (or whatever might be the motivation, or even the word) or, perhaps, rich! They’re pretty expensive, it would seem. I heard one gentleman nay-sayer refer to them on otherwise pretty women as the mad scribblings of a meth-addict. (Can you guess I have Strong Views about this subject?) There is a parlour only a few minutes walk from home and I pass it every day. It has not been closed one day during the time of the plague! The only sign that something unusual is going on is the taped cross on the waiting bench in the window. A couple of years ago, a laser tattoo-removal parlour opened up in my neighbourhood and I thought they were going to be a small business success story, but it appears they went out of business. I, too, have completely underestimated the tenacity of this fad.

I cannot say whether the rules of civility have gone out of the window in California, but I may suggest that if this is something you have noticed, then indeed they have.

Baci xx
Rosemarie
· Reply

November 11, 2020 at 11:23 PM

Enjoyed this post = variety and the positive comments you are receiving on it.

Oh I do not like tattoos – some are so excessive on some bodies. People don’t understand too that one should not be suntanning if you have them as they do fade.

Poor manners on the club not offering you anything! Lemonade would have been nice and tea sandwiches.

Loved your setting for the luncheon and view of your house.

Recently I heard these 2 words and they apply perfectly to you! You have “youthful exuberance”
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 12, 2020 at 7:07 AM
  
  HA!
  “YOUTHFUL EXUBERANCE”!!!
  Now I just need to find THE ENERGY to GO WITH THAT…………….
  I Must go change MY SPELLING of TATTOOS!
  THANKS for checking and in and always sending me the most FUN photos of gardens,YOUR STREET and the most recent CARTOONS twirling around the Internet!!
  Stay WELL up there in CANADA!
  XX
D.A. Squires
· Reply

November 11, 2020 at 7:44 PM

I only found you because I thought you might be the barefoot contessa… your blog was listed as a recommended on Mimi’s Manger (I still and will always miss it, and cannot believe she now lives in Italy!) Agree manners have been on a long decline, it is one of the serious things wrong with today’s world… as one example, thank you notes–handwritten–should still be order of the day. Wonderful to peek in on your luncheon get-together: a slice of delicious normalcy! Just absolutely totally ADORE the rear view of Banksy, The Magnificent as he departed the residence! (In Fantastic Tails, the Great Escape is made through the doggy/piggy door : ) And a video of his bedtime ritual is a MUST (by popular demand of all your readers, I am sure!!) Now for two things we have in common. I have a nearly identical witch’s hat. And I had a mole removed above my lip when I was young and have the exact same scar. How about that?! XOXO PS Wish tomorrow was January 20, 2021. Maybe if we decorate for xmas earlier, it will get here sooner : )
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 12, 2020 at 7:01 AM
  
  I donot think I KNEW THAT D.A. MIMI’s BLOG!I would NEVER have guessed THAT!I LOVED her BLOG TOO……………….
  SHE HAS BECOME A BIT MORE BUSY with all her SUCCESS and KIDS!My last post on INSTAGRAM was about her NEW COOKBOOK!OF COURSE we have the same HAT and SCAR…………makes perfect sense!
  I was outside a home yesterday and they had the TREE up inside!
  MAYBE?!!!
  CAN’t come soon enough for me………….XOXO
donna m macdonald
· Reply

November 11, 2020 at 5:07 PM

I have missed you on Instagram! Please don’t stay away too long. I would have loved to go to your patio luncheon. It looks so warm and sunny. Here it will be very chilly soon and we are rainy and foggy. Sigh… And yes, to not proffer some water or light snack is RUDE and thoughtless I believe. I don’t think it’s a California thing but it seems to be a young person’s thing. Not always, but I find the younger people are not as attentive to refreshments. SO glad someone shared with you. So nice to be back on your blog….it’s been a tough summer missing my brother and taking care of Mom and I have writer’s block!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 12, 2020 at 6:57 AM
  
  I had NO IDEA YOU were FOLLOWING me there……………….THANK YOU!
  I can imagine your DUTIES with MOM after your brothers passing………MY MOM died THREE YEARS AGO last night!!
  SO,SO SORRY………………
  Don’t beat yourself up about it!Now is a good time to hunker down and be good to yourself.
  BIG HUG,
  XX
  - donna m macdonald
    · Reply
    
    November 16, 2020 at 4:48 PM
    
    So true Contessa! Happy Thanksgiving!
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

November 11, 2020 at 9:50 AM

HEIDI is on my LEFT in the photo of the THREE of us!I AGREE SHE LOOKS VERY YOUNG AND EVERYTHING ABOUT HER IS YOUNG!
THANK YOU for your comment and I ADORED SPEAKING WITH YOU THE OTHER DAY!
THE SHOES SHOULD BE ARRIVING SOON!!!
XX
Mary A James
· Reply

November 11, 2020 at 9:41 AM

How marvelous to sit outside at a gorgeous table lunching with delightful ladies. Heidi and her daughters all look so young I still don’t know which one is actually Heidi. Wonderful. Love your outfit, and hat…always glamours as a Contessa must be.

I admit my favorite however is Mr. Winston wanting to be by your side and Bansky making his way out his piggie door. Cracked me up with that hind of his….Can you guess where my eyes fall fist as an animal lover….

What a marvelous thing you did, and did read the ladies blogs as well. Delightful. Thank you so much for sharing all this joy.
Jill James
· Reply

November 11, 2020 at 1:33 AM

A delightful post Elizabeth , Banksy going through his door put a smile on my face, such a gem. Loved your witchy hat . Never mind those laughter lines , we all have them and I too share the hooded eyes. Your lunch table was so pretty , a treat to host friends in your garden. The eggplant dish is right up my street , must give it a try.
I can only agree that I find it strange that nothing was offered to you on your Garden Club day, lack of thought there.The wreath is lovely . xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 9:12 AM
  
  ONE DAY I WANT TO SIT IN YOUR GARDEN AND DRINK!!!!!!!!!
  BUCKET LIST OBJECTIVES!!!!
  XX
Taste of France
· Reply

November 11, 2020 at 12:13 AM

I am behind on pleasure reading, and reading your blog is always a HUGE pleasure.
You are making the Internet live up to its original promise of connecting people in the best possible way. As we are on lockdown again, I see nobody and get great vicarious pleasure in reading about your doings.
It isn’t a “witch hat”–it’s a BEWITCHING hat. Beautiful and flamboyant. Something Auntie Mame might wear. (That’s a high compliment!)
Re eggplant, I discovered a charming video with Bill Buford on the New Yorker website in which he makes ratatouille. I also cook all the ingredients separately, but not like he does. I tried it his way and like it even better. For the eggplant, he cooks it without oil in a nonstick pan. I salt it, let it sweat, rinse and squeeze before cooking it, and I must say the no-oil route is great. Eggplant just sucks up oil. It turned out nicely browned and so fragrant. I bet it would be possible for this to cook the eggplant without oil and then to add some oil to get that nice crispy, fried effect, without using nearly as much oil….
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 9:11 AM
  
  THANK YOU I take that and Auntie Mame has a HUGH COMPLIMENT!!!!That was my FAVORITE movie growing up!
  MY Mother also called my AUNT Auntie Mame!!!!!!!!
  I Also LOVED THE MOVIE GYPSY ROSE LEE but cannot recall what that story was about!!!!!!
  
  WEll, I AM GAME TO TRY THE NO OIL TRICK as that is VERY TIME CONSUMING!
  
  MERCI MADAME for the PERFECT TIP!!!
  
  XX
lisa thomson
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 5:44 PM

Oh my gosh, I LOVE your witch hat!! How nice to host a fall luncheon. What a nice idea, while the weather is still perfect. I can’t actually believe you weren’t provided with any refreshment as a garden host. It is poor manner and every man for himself kind of attitude. Thank you for sharing your eggplant dish, I shall add it to my recipe book. I will try it soon. I don’t ever cook eggplant so this will be a nice change. Love that pet magazine and that you also made one as a child. That is so cute!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 9:06 AM
  
  I SOLD these witch HATS in my shop years ago…………..they were a good seller GLAD I kept ONE!
  IT is very easy to make the time involved is frying the eggplant but I think the next comment says to skip that step…….LETS GO READ what she says!
  Another easy recipe is to cube eggplant, salt let water pop OUT dry with paper towel……….fry in oil drain on Paper towels.
  ADD to a Tomato sauce with fresh basil.Perfect over PENNE PASTA!Think they call this PASTA de la NORMA!!!
  SO SORRY ABOUT YOUR SISTER PASSING…….
  BIG HUGS,
  XX
Heidi
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 4:11 PM

Hi Elizabeth,
I’m finally getting around to leaving you a comment, I see Chloe’ beat me to it! (I’m just going to leave a little plug here for her insta @tinyblondereader for anyone who might enjoy thoughtful, insightful book reviews.)
We all had such a lovely time with you in your beautiful garden. The food was delicious and I’m so happy you posted the recipe for the gratin because it was soooo good! I’m going to make it, soon. Isn’t it funny how not many days ago we were trying to stay cool in the shade, and now I’m bundled up, following the sun from spot to spot in order to thaw out a little!
I loved meeting Juliet, what a wonderful surprise. She’s just as sweet as I thought she’d be and I hope to see her again, as soon as things get better out there. Our county just went back into the RED zone. I guess no more traipsing about for awhile.
You are such a good hostess, not everyone is. There should have been at least a a little something to nibble on for all of you working the Garden Club event. Individually wrapped items ( COVID concerns), and bottles of water at the very least. I’m always amazed at the lack of awareness when it comes to things we take for granted. I’ve been to so many events where the most basic items were not provided (napkins anyone? Utensils?). Not everyone thinks about all the little details like we do, but food and water are pretty basic!
One more thing: Elizabeth when people see you they see a tall, striking woman who has flair for dressing, a zest for life, sparkly eyes, amazing jewelry, and a big welcoming smile. I completely doubt that anyone sees scars or wrinkles (fine lines!). If that’s what they notice, take no notice of them!!
XO Heidi
- judith
  · Reply
  
  November 11, 2020 at 7:35 AM
  
  What a beautiful comment about Elizabeth! You are so right!
  - LA CONTESSA
    · Reply
    
    Author
    
    November 11, 2020 at 8:52 AM
    
    YOU ARE TOO KIND BOTH OF YOU!
    XOX
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 9:01 AM
  
  YOUR NEWS OF RED ZONE took me by SURPRISE!!!!!!!!
  ALSO last night on the news they were talking about MY COUNTY!!!
  BUT lets get back to recipes and ME A STRIKING WOMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!
  THAT MADE MY DAY YESTERDAY when I read your comment!I don’t feel STRIKING……….so many things are not functioning with me at the moment!NO ONE has said anything I just thought its interesting how THINGS CREEP up and all of a sudden YOU realize your BODY has changed!WE do NOT talk about that as a society just like the OLDER WOMAN was NEVER used in ADVERTISING until a few years ago thanks to ARI SETH COHEN and his PHOTOGRAPHS.Now we do see older women in ADS…………..
  I do believe I am searching OUT SUBJECTS to CHAT about here on the BLOGGY………..
  YOU STAY AWAY FROM THE BEACH RED ZONE!!!!
  BE WELL…………..XOX
Dinner Party Guru
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 4:01 PM

Loved this post.

You are correct my dear … manners and consideration are always appropriate and I think required!!
You should have been given a treat bag with something special and delish and some lovely flavored bottled water.

Mr Bansky can barely fit that door but he is so smart he slinks right through.

Take care and keep on keeping on
Xox
Amanda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 8:48 AM
  
  SLINKS is THE APPROPRIATE WORD AMANDA!!!
  HE IS A DOLL…………I forget HOW ODD it is to have a PIG in the HOUSE.SOMETIMES it STRIKES me this is NOT the NORM ELIZABETH and YOU have BEEN BLESSED with a PIGGY who LOVES YOU and your FURRY menagerie. Last night on my way to bed I got down on his bed to tuck him in with his blankets and gave him extra kisses he snorts back and I can tell they are full of LOVE!Just call me CRAZY!!
  XOX
Kathy L
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 2:29 PM

The Barefoot Contessa has so many cookbooks filled with great recipes. I met her once and had her sign my (food-stained) copy of her first cookbook. She was lovely. Ina would give a big ‘thumbs up’ to your pretty green luncheon tablescape (and your gracious hospitality standards).
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 8:43 AM
  
  I think INA and I would LAUGH A LOT!!!!!!!!!!!
  SHE REALLY HIT A HOME RUN WITH HER COOKBOOKS!
  XX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 2:11 PM

What a wonderful surprise for Juliette! You’re a sweetheart, Elizabeth! I’m not sure I fully understood the garden club situation, but if you were there, working the flea market… in ANY WAY… you should have had water and lunch. Period!! xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 8:42 AM
  
  RIGHT!
  YOU understood ENOUGH!SORRY it was NOT CLEAR………………
  YOU must be so happy to have your BOOK to be writing in these times!!!
  Hope you are well!
  Xox
fifi
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 2:01 PM

My comment disappeared again so here I go one more time.
I love your posts and set time aside to savor them. Love your hats and fine lines (not wrinkles!!) and your charming ways. You are a fabulous hostess and Giampiero’s food is magic!
I am going to be doing 2 new books in 2021 and I know we will be shooting in California , so WATCH OUT because I am gonna come to see you (maybe Giampiero will cook us a little treat….just saying…)
Thanks so much for mentioning FOR PET’S SAKE. You know how much the animals mean to me and I know how much they mean to you. We all need to do whatever we can to help them. Every little bit helps.
Stay lovely, stay stylish and stay SAFE. xoxoxoxo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 11, 2020 at 8:39 AM
  
  THAT is something to LOOK FORWARD TOO FIFI…………….
  For him to cook it has to be a weekend so KEEP THAT IN MIND when making your schedule!!!!
  I will keep spreading THE WORD…………..FOR PET’s SAKE!!!
  HUGS TO YOU and I am SO SORRY THIS KEEPS HAPPENING TO YOU!
  Computers seem to TAKE BREAKS like WE DO!
  XOXO
Josephine Floyd
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 1:47 PM

How wonderful is that !!! Can feel the warmth of your hospitality and wonderful blog down the wire! Oh I remember the first time I Noticed my scalp thru my hair, now it’s the crepey arms and chest getting worse everyday , argh but our minds remain young , our sense of humor more absurd , life’s good xxxxxxxx
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 10, 2020 at 1:54 PM
  
  YOU ARE A ROLE MODEL!
  FUNNY YOU MENTION THE ARMS AND THE CHEST!!!!!!!!!!THAT WAS THIS WEEKS DISCOVERY!!!!!!
  LIFE IS GOOD AND WE STILL CAN PLAY!!!
  XXXXXXOXO
Chloe
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 1:42 PM

Elizabeth,
THANK YOU for having us to lunch, it was so lovely to meet you. I am happy you and my mom are friends (we are very protective of her, haha).
xoxo
Chloe @tinyblondereader
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 10, 2020 at 1:52 PM
  
  AS YOU SHOULD BE!SHE IS A WONDERFUL PERSON!!!
  SO TALENTED IN BAKING AND COOKING AND WITH HER PAINT BRUSHES!!!
  SO HAPPY TO HAVE MET YOU AND YOUR SISTER!!!
  XX
judith
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 1:30 PM

Dear Contessa,
You are beautiful and your garden lunch looks divine! How nice to have the Italian to assist. Be glad you got that mole off of your face; I know people cannot help having them, but on the face, they are so distracting. I don’t like tattoos, either. Call me old fashioned. As to the not serving even a teaspoon of water at the garden event, that is not okay, even during a pandemic. We must still eat and drink. Manners still apply. I live in the South, and we wouldn’t think of not offering some sort of refreshment on any occasion. I even took coffee to the gentlemen working on my roof last week. It’s just courtesy. Anyway, thank you for keeping us entertained in your always charming fashion. I am working on an e-mail for you.

Take good care and be well.

Judith
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 10, 2020 at 1:48 PM
  
  I knew I spelled TATTOOS WRONG but that spell check did not underline my word or give me a HINT!
  NO the tattoos are even distracting to me especially on the ACTORS now a days……..it ruins the character for me.I see that TAT and realize OH just another human of this generation.For some reason I feel they need to be covered up.
  SO, Happy to hear from a SOUTHERN BELLE…………..I’m the same way.Have Men Here working I am always feeding and fueling with liquid!heck the neighbors across the street had their garden done years ago and I was running over with an Espresso morning and afternoon!Funny I recently ran into this man in the grocery store!HE EVEN REMEMBERED MY NAME!!!!!!!!
  XX
Katie Clooney
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 12:36 PM

Hello dear Contessa. Sorry I didn’t comment sooner but I have been partying like it’s 1999 since Saturday night!!! I have two questions: WHAT WRINKLES? Second Question: Who DOESN’T read Juliet’s blog??? It looked like a fabulous afternoon. No water at the Garden Club? Say it AIN”T so!! Do they not realize that you are royalty? Have a wonderful week!!! It is a new day….
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 10, 2020 at 1:19 PM
  
  TEXAS WATCH OUT……………HERE SHE COMES SHE IS BACK AND FULL OF IT!!!
  HOUSE SOLD PACKED UP AND ON “THE ROAD AGAIN!”I LOVED THAT SONG 1999 and NOW I KNOW WHY!!!
  YOU have given it a whole NEW MEANING!If I were still on THE GRAM I would have done a dance to that tune just for YOU!
  I would IMAGINE MOST OF US DO HERE FOLLOW JULIET BUT JUST IN CASE WE GET A FEW STRAGGLERS……..
  SHHHH……..NO they have NOT picked up on the ROYALTY bit yet!!!
  WELCOME BACK……….XX
Mary Ann Pickett
· Reply

November 10, 2020 at 12:31 PM

Three of my fave ladies together in a garden. How delightful!!! I don’t know why people aren’t better hosts but perhaps it was a Covid problem (giving them the benefit of the doubt that they don’t want to spread it with food handling).

I would love to steal some magnolia branches sometime if there are any left. I paid for mine at the flower mart.
Mary Ann
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  November 10, 2020 at 1:20 PM
  
  COME BY AND WE WILL SEE WHAT WE CAN DO!
  XX
Jeanne Durfee
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November 10, 2020 at 12:14 PM

Oh my Contessa, wear your wrinkles as a badge of honor as so many are denied the privilege of age. We were young once and had our time in the sun, now is the time to pass the baton on to the young ones, we have knowledge, grace and love in our hearts. Put a smile on your face as you always do and shine like the sun. Jeanne
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 1:21 PM
  
  GOT IT AND YOU ARE RIGHT!
  WILL DO!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Never Mind Donna
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November 10, 2020 at 12:13 PM

I laughed at the mixing up of the Rachels! Completely different areas of expertise. The magnolia wreath is beautiful. When I lived in Pasadena, All Saints’ Episcopal Church would hang huge magnolia wreaths at Christmas. Whenever I see one now, it is a wonderful memory. Hope to talk to you soon. Happy Thanksgiving to yo and your family!
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 1:24 PM
  
  FOOD AND FASHION………………both things WE NEED for KICKS and SURVIVAL!
  I’ll call YOU!
  XX
Ms. Mary
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November 10, 2020 at 11:46 AM

You are certainly the Hostess with the MOSTEST. Glad for you to get to entertian.
My two year anniversary of quitting IG posting is coming up. I still look at IG occasionaly, but I DO NOT MISS trying to come up with new ideas for photos. I spend more time gardening! Fall is here now, so I’m putting my garden to bed for the winter. Always something to do.
Both my little doves (and J’s husband) will be here for Thanksgiving. Happily looking forwrd! <3
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 1:26 PM
  
  OH LUCKY YOU to have the family!
  THE GRAM as they call it now is a TIME SUCKER………….I am getting MORE DONE that is for sure!!
  WE are lucky but still being extra careful…….as the NUMBERS here too are going UP with COVID!
  XX
Robin
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November 10, 2020 at 11:33 AM

What a wonderful luncheon you had!!

We just completed the Olive Harvest, with the most beautiful weather!! At the olive mill, they had bottles of water , and wine with flimsy plastic cups, but always something. Everyone brings bread and garlic to test the new oil. Quite charming. I sent you a bottle of olive oil 2 years ago, but Umbria did not have olives last year, so this year, all of us are thrilled. (Cannot believe, no water or sacks, at your Garden Club). Of course, Italians would have all- a full spread. My Berkley neighbors were quite disappointed to miss the Harvest this year.

We are thrilled with the results of the election- we have sat on pins and needles for more than four years. This topic brought you and I together four years ago.

Tanti Bacioni di Umbria, R
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 1:31 PM
  
  IS THAT HOW We CONNECTED?I did not remember THAT!
  WE adored your olive oil!!!
  I bet they were………NO FLYING ANYWHERE!
  YOU BE SAFE………..NO sharing the BIcchiera con OTHERS!
  XX
Leslie Lord
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November 10, 2020 at 9:56 AM

What a delightful post!
Love that witchy hat. Your luncheon sounds wonderful.
We are not permitted to get together right now because of the spike in Covid cases.
I do miss you on Instagram. Hope you get back sooner rather than later.
Take care,
XO
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 1:34 PM
  
  WE probably will NOT DO THAT AGAIN for a long time things are looking a bit BLEAK around here……….numbers are going UP!
  I MUST FIND MORE THINGS TO CLEAN!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Lisa
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November 10, 2020 at 9:24 AM

You are gorgeous as ever and a fabulous hostess! Your luncheon in the garden looks so inviting in that California weather. (We just got our first bit of snow here). The magnolia leaf wreath is so pretty! We had a giant magnolia tree at the house I grew up in Ross and I remember those leathery leaves and the spectacular blossoms! Also had a big tulip tree( not sure what it’s real name is but I called it that for it’s beautiful big tulip looking blossoms. Oh I just adore that Banks Boy! Nice to see his swishy butt go out the door! Much love to you!
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 1:39 PM
  
  SO, I GOOGLED IT FOR US TO KNOW…….Liriodendron is the TULIP TREE!WAS that on the LEFT as you walked into the house?!!
  I recall your POOL with the rocks MORE than anything…………….
  I WILL TELL THE BANKSY BOY YOU APPROVE OF HIS GAIT!!!
  Once I do I am certain his TAIL will go back and fourth at full speed!
  That means he is HAPPY!
  XOX
PATRICIA H. Flournoy
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November 10, 2020 at 6:57 AM

You are totally amazing…and manage to add a smile to my day! Merci, merci
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:59 AM
  
  APPRECIATE THAT PATRICIA VERY MUCH………….THANK YOU!
  XX
Diana Amato
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November 10, 2020 at 6:31 AM

I am so happy to read and catch up on what you have been up to. The lovely luncheon looked amazing, as always! And what a beautiful way to spend Halloween Day. Halloween in my neighborhood was changed up a bit this year, as you can well imagine. I decided to make it a quiet evening in. Now that my son is 17, he had no interest in all the decorating and shenanigans that usually accompany the evening. Oh well, there is next year.
I would definitely have a difficult time not having even a sip or two of water on a hot day and would be frustrated to know that there was none offered. Here at my house, I offer everything from water to cappuccini and hot chocolates depending on what s going on. Simple human courtesies are negligible these days. Miss you and your daily feed. Stay well and please return to us soon.
Un forte abbraccio
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:58 AM
  
  HELLO………..
  Those BOYS can be PARTY POOPERS!I bet you still get a few TRICK or TREATERS……….NO?
  YOU ARE THE SUPREME HOSTESS AND I KNOW THIS WOULD NEVER FLY WITH YOU!
  HOLIDAYS ARE CREEPING UP AND ALL I WANT TO DO IS CURL UP!
  THANK YOU FOR MISSING ME……………….I’ll be BACK before you know it!
  XX
tammy j
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November 10, 2020 at 6:10 AM

do you not know? have you not heard? YOU are Beautiful. and you’re an Original. your lines are laugh lines! because…
you EAT LIFE!
that line was in a movie I saw once. and if ever there was a description of you … I think that is it!
and de ja vu. I think I’ve said it before here. but it bears repeating.
you genuinely Love people. you and your wonderful Italian man who occasionally forgets the eggplant in the oven! LOLOL!
you’re simply a joy. we’re thankful for you dear Contessa! xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:32 AM
  
  MANGIA LA VITA!!!!
  WELL,THAT IS A WONDERFUL LINE…………….I MUST EAT MORE THEN!
  Yes, the ITALIAN who was in charge as I had to go to bed I couldn’t wait any longer for the SON who was driving from a distance and was arriving for a LATE LATE DINNER!I had set the temp to warm so it was pretty BLACK when I saw it the next morning!!!
  The Grateful SON took it home with him the next day!
  OH JOY THANK YOU!!!
  XOXO
Dawn
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November 10, 2020 at 6:03 AM

I needed a good chuckle this morning…doggy door exit did it for me! Precious! Thanks!
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:26 AM
  
  GOOD………BANKSY has done a GOOD DEED TODAY!!!!
  XX
anitapelayorivera
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November 10, 2020 at 5:02 AM

Contessa dear, GOOD MORNING! You know that I have a very difficult time finding your blog from the web; it never brings me directly here unless I get notification in my email which I finally got this morning!

You answered my question about Instagram. I had wanted to credit you for a gift you sent me years ago: a matchbox with a beautiful image of a queen. To my dismay, I discovered you were nowhere to be found on IG! So sorry to hear of your situation there!

I wish you health and happiness as we come to an end of a very “different” year. I hope 2021 will be a gentler year.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:25 AM
  
  I SOLD THOSE MATCHES AT MY SHOP!!
  I will check it out via OGC account!
  I am SORRY the STUPID MAILCHIMP does not DELIVER THE MAIL!!!!HE must be eating BANANAS and not paying attention to DIRECTIONS!!!
  SO, YOU cannot google THEVINTAGECONTESSA.NET and arrive HERE for a VIEWING?
  TERRIBLE………….
  HOW ARE YOU AND THE HUBBY?I must check in with YOU!
  XX
Parnassus
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November 10, 2020 at 4:55 AM

Hello Contessa, These days, many people prefer to supply their own food and drink, what with covid and the weird stories of drugged drinks we have been hearing for the last several years (surely not for a garden event??). Still, polite people will at least make the offer and have consideration.

So nice to see a picture of the younger you. I’m sure you were a delight at any age.
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:21 AM
  
  OH GOSH JIM I HAVE MISSED THE DRUGGED DRINKS ………………sometimes I do feel I live in my own world!The news for years has been filled with ONLY the BAD so I tend to turn it off and not absorb it.
  I just found it VERY STRANGE………as someone mentioned maybe because of COVID?
  Still there are small bottles and Dixie cups.BAFFLES ME………..XX
VAL
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November 10, 2020 at 4:44 AM

Is it a California thing? NOOOOOO- it’s just Simply RUDE!!!!! Remind me to tell you about a somewhat similar experience I had in the 1960’s at a charity event at Ethel Kennedy’s home! Thank You for the image of Banksy’s posterior- it has provided a GREAT Deal of comic relief from the post Election INSANITY perpetuated by YOU KNOW WHO. I could use that Eggplant Gratin about now- Comfort Food for the days ahead……….

Much Love to You!
XOXOXO
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:17 AM
  
  YOU MEAN TO TELL ME I HAVE A READER WHO HUNG OUT WITH THE KENNEDY’S?!!!!!
  HAPPY to MAKE YOU SMILE……………..
  THE GRATIN would be easy for you to make………..DON”T FORGET THE BREAD to scoop up the bits of tomato and oil.
  THANK YOU FOR YOUR FUN COMMENT!!!
  XOXO
Dawn
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November 10, 2020 at 4:37 AM

Wrinkles don’t matter, it is firmness that matters and you look fine with no sagging. Your upper lip scar looks 100% better than any mole would.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:13 AM
  
  OKAY if you say SO!!!!
  THANK YOU!!!
  XX
Elle
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November 10, 2020 at 4:11 AM

O never mind the extra lines dear CONTESSA, thou art more lovely and more temperate! So wonderful that you are connecting with your community online and in situ. Unlucky for us faraway fans who will never get to pat Banksy’s rump as he trundles through that door!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:12 AM
  
  HE DOES TRUNDLE ELLE……………
  DO you recall TRUNDLE BUNDLES as a KID?They were an all in ONE pajama with feet!
  YOUR word made me think back to those which I loved.Could use one today as its 35 degrees outside!!XX
Hilda Smith
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November 10, 2020 at 12:56 AM

Oh Banksy is too cute, shaking his booty as he goes through the door. I love getting peeks into your home. You are the perfect hostess and The Italian the perfect host, so it is abhorrent to you that others are not. Love all your introductions to interesting people as always .
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:09 AM
  
  OH THANK YOU for the DEFINITION of WHY THAT STRUCK A CORD…….as I said ABOVE it was the THIRD TIME in TWO MONTHS where hospitality was absent.BAFFLES ME!
  XX
Cindy
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November 9, 2020 at 6:48 PM

oh my sounds like you ladies had a blast! Heidi’s girls are darling she looks like one of them! You are such a great hostess I am sure everyone had a fabulous time!! Hope to meet Juliet one day!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:06 AM
  
  THAT CAN BE ARRANGED!!!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
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Author

November 9, 2020 at 5:19 PM

VIA FACEBOOK………..I wish i could remember the color of that dress but I’m lucky if I can remember what I had for breakfast these days. I do remember your beautiful bed, and a sunken bathtub, right?

CELESTE W.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:06 AM
  
  YES!
  I recall that bathtub was a BIG DEAL to many!!Thats all I knew…………
  WE were too busy digging our way to CHINA with GARDEN SPADES!
  XX
Sandra Sallin
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November 9, 2020 at 5:02 PM

How lovely. I miss you so it was a treat to see what you’re doing. No water on a garden tour? Maybe you need to make it a requirement if there is a tour of one’s garden? Nothing to nibble on? I’d say the garden owner was out to lunch. But your food looked delish. Good to see you.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:03 AM
  
  Perhaps because we are a DROUGHT STATE most of the TIME!!!
  HA HA……………I think this hit a cord with me as it was the THIRD time in two months I had been INVITED and NO HOSPITALITY was offered………..XX
Juliet
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November 9, 2020 at 4:51 PM

Contessa! Flea market?! Magnolia wreaths?! How did I not know about this … or get on pre-sale list?! Ok, shaking it off and moving on. It’s hard to believe that barely a week ago I was sitting in your lovely garden with Heidi and her two beauties trying to stay out of the hot sun. And, this morning our fountain was frozen and I was searching for gloves?! Back to the lunch … what a thrill to make a guest appearance and meet Heidi, the talented artist, in person. Her daughters are the most delightful young woman and I could have chatted away with them well into the evening. Of course, it was Halloween and we had to get home to don our witch hats … none as fabulous as yours. Back to the garden club. I’m shocked … shocked … that proper refreshment was not offered. If not there … where?! Oh my, things aren’t what they used to be. I know this makes us sound old … but I prefer the days when things were done properly with consideration and respect for friends and neighbors. Thanks for the shout out. I’m always tickled pink to see my name on La Contessa’s blog! xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 7:01 AM
  
  Well, you didNOT KNOW as its a CLUB THING!With COVID too they kept it to a minimum.
  MY next ASSIGNMENT with YOU will be to get you involved in THE CLUB…………which comes but once a year.SO get settled into your ABODE and be ready to JOIN NEXT YEAR!
  I would IMAGINE they will be HITTING YOU up for a GARDEN TOUR AS well…………….in a year or two!AS THAT ENCHANTING PLANTINGS created an OASIS surrounding YOUR HOME.
  Just giving YOU a HEADS UP!
  XOX
kim
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November 9, 2020 at 3:12 PM

I just love this post. So nice to see your three lovelies together and Heidi’s girls are adorable! What a beautiful lunch. Nice you all did this before we got the cold! The Banksy video made my day! Oh to come back as Banksy living like an aristocrat!

Okay I have to tell you I used to write a newsletter for my street called The Scottsglen Post (that was our street name.) I would type it up or hand write it with carbon paper. Sometimes my dad would sneak and take it to work and run off copies for me!! Does this mean we were both destined to be bloggers?? I love that. Do you have any copies of your pet magazine? I may have one of mine somewhere.. My mom saved it.
Your friend FIfi is such a good person. Love she does this for pets. So happy to see your post up, but still miss you on the gram. xoxo Kim
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 6:53 AM
  
  BANKSY the ARISTOCRAT I LOVE IT!
  If ONLY he had an idea of HOW GOOD A LIFE HE HAS!
  Well, The Name of your publication WINS over mine!
  I have one place to look for my PET MAGAZINE in my Mothers filing cabinet…………she had a friend who had saved all the issues and gave them to her years later.A Mrs. Bartholomew.We were both touched my that I can remember.I MUST GO LOOK!
  FiFI, is a DEVINE HUMAN AND GORGEOUS TO BOOT!
  XOXO
Lorna
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November 9, 2020 at 1:10 PM

Oh my, we got a close up of Banksy’s rear end today 🙂 That made me smile. November is rolling by fast. I think we’ll put up the Christmas decorations early this year. I feel we need to forget all about the bad things that came with 2020 and focus on having some fun.
You and your friends look like you had a wonderful time during your luncheon. It’s always a pleasure to read your posts and I hope we will see you back on Instagram in 2021. Hope you are doing well and haven’t had any more of your ‘episodes’. Take care and thanks for the recipe.
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 6:45 AM
  
  CHRISTMAS decor early…………..NOW THATS A THOUGHT!I once had a DEVINE friend who was from South Africa and since she went “HOME” for the HOLIDAYS she too would put up the TREE in OCTOBER……it was a FAKE tree so NO fire HAZARD!She had a magical aura about her……..also was a PRIMA BALLERINA ABSOLUTE.I was thinking last night soon we will be coming upon a YEAR of this PANDEMIC.Lets HOPE our coming YEAR will give us MORE HOPE and MOVEMENT.You keep snapping your BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS!!
  XX
Nancy
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November 9, 2020 at 11:55 AM

So good to read your fun post and to see a ladies get together on your sunny, gorgeous patio. I’m so suprized to hear about no drink or food accommodations for you at the garden club flea market! Goodness sake I am always thirsty and hungry so I assume everyone else is so I provide usually too much! Are we old school Contessa?
I love your recipes and am going to make them both. Thank you for your post.. blessings always
- LA CONTESSA
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  November 10, 2020 at 6:39 AM
  
  YES, we are OLD SCHOOL………..which I have to say THANK YOU MOM!!!
  Let me know how they come out!THAT BAREFOOT CONTESSA can DO NO WRONG IN MY BOOK!
  XX