NOT DONE WITH THE HOLIDAYS!

January 4, 2017 153 Comments

THIS has to BE one of MY ALL TIME FAVORITE SHOTS.

CHRISTMAS EVE with my GRAND DOG GOOSE!

He had been given a NO SINK Life jacket as he likes to swim but DOES NOT FLOAT!

IT was the PERFECT GIFT from MY SISTER IN LAW to my SON.

The only thing I bought AFTER CHRISTMAS via my COMPUTER.

NOT SURE THEY ARE ME!!!!!

NEW YEARS EVE

A small packet arrived via NEW YORK from one of the METS OPERA SINGERS!

You see I follow her on INSTAGRAM

I commented on her TREE

and what happens NEXT is she wants to send me something from THAT tree!

Could she please have my address.

I had to say YES!

DO you see the sparkly rectangle like tree ornament?

Well, instead of adorning my TREE I adorned MYSELF

on NEW YEARS EVE!

I will get to NEW YORK to see HER SING!

YES, I will

YOU just wait and SEE!

Wearing MY GIFT from AGENT 43!

THE WREATH on TOP of MY HEAD!

Can YOU BELIEVE IT?

I think it SUITS me to a TEE!

AND Then

A CHRISTMAS GIFT from MY SON

The SPARKLY NECK BIT

Just ADDED MORE POP To my VINTAGE TEXTILE FUN!

GOOSEMAN (the BOXER) almost ASLEEP on my lap on Christmas EVE.

YES,

I did have a good CHRISTMAS INDEED I DID!

THE BIG GIFT from the ITALIAN to me

Besides the much NEEDED NEW BLENDER came as a puzzle.

I was given three boxes with letters.

ONE TWO and THREE.

A word puzzle.

THANK GOODNESS I had HELP.

First born GOT GARDEN right after I laid the letters down!

SECOND BORN got CHELSEA .

I came in THIRD with ENGLISH.

I will be attending THE CHELSEA GARDEN SHOW in LONDON this SPRING!

2017

IT has been on MY bucket list for YEARS!!!!!!

YOU can IMAGINE HOW THRILLED I AM.

Sometimes HE does LISTEN TO ME!

HOW GRATEFUL AM I!

But

I have mentioned one week just willNOT cut it as I have FRIENDS; BLOGGING FRIENDS and INSTAGRAM friends who I have never met in person and well, I canNOT be SO close and NOT MEET THEM!

CAN I?

The answer to THAT is SIMPLE.

NO,

I will do MY VERY BEST TO SQUEEZE YOU ALL IN only if YOU have time for ME!

AND if you are a READER here and you reside in ENGLAND make certain I know!

As I would LOVE to MEET UP WITH YOU

AS WELL!

THE DECEMBER FESTIVITIES

came to an end. ONLY to CREATE MORE FOOD and FESTIVITIES for THE ITALIAN as he has a BIRTHDAY on the SECOND day of JANUARY!

FESTOONING

THE BIRTHDAY BOY

who cooked the entire meal HIMSELF.

WE LOVE MEN WHO CAN COOK!

OH, YES WE DO!

YES, he makes BREAD which I caNNOT EAT!

GLUTEN FREE HERE.

One DAY he tells me HE will attempt the GF version!

I think I can wait as that will just ADD on MORE if you know what I mean!

The ORANGE CAT

THEODORE

on the ORANGE LOUNGE!

He has been spending LOADS of time indoors as our temps are COLD.

IN the 30 and 40’s.

I know CANADA and BACK EAST

LAUGH AWAY!!!!!

WE CALIFORNIANS ARE FREEZING!

WHIMPS, is MORE like it!

GO ahead and laugh with GLEE!

WINSTON

“Got my SANTA hat MOM now what do I DO?”

Nothing better than to be SMOTHERED in SMOOCHES from your GRAND BABIES!

These BOXERS are MOTHER and SON.

The MAMA LICKING ME can you see that TONQUE?!!

AND perhaps the ULTIMATE GIFT this past year

is for this little BOY to be moving in across the STREET!

You see it was a GOOD thing we took those 1940 windows to the GROUND and MADE FRENCH DOORS.

As I will have them OPEN in the late afternoons

Hoping for HIS Music to come wafting in across the way!

YOU SEE HE SINGS OPERA.

ITALIAN OPERA.

The PIANO as well.

CONTESSA HERE is THRILLED.

I find this ALL to be JUST SWELL.

PAWS on VELVET

Works for ME any day of the WEEK.

Nothing could make ME SMILE MORE.

MAY YOU BE HEALTHY AND HAPPY in THIS COMING YEAR!

You READERS bring me JOY day in and day out

I HOPE

I have brought you something to SMILE ABOUT!

153 Comments

Leave your reply.

Lianna Brown
· Reply

January 6, 2017 at 5:32 PM

Loved your blog! I follow you on Instagram and love your posts! I am also gluten free… I have found a wonderful flour that makes delicious bread, actually anything. It is simply by Pillsbury and is a one for one match. So no adding other ingredients like xantham gum. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures this spring. I long to go to the UK to shop, maybe someday. Till then I will live through your adventures. Safe travels!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 7, 2017 at 8:21 AM
  
  HELLLLO!!!!!!!!
  PILLSBURY!!!!!!!!!!
  I will LOOK for it as I do not bake as I would be the ONE EATING IT ALL!!
  THANK YOU for the TIP!I have finally found a BREAD I ADORE by THREE BAKERS.
  This GF FOOD has come ALOONNGGG way in the last DECADE!
  I have read ONE in TEN people suffer from it!
  I PROMISE TO GIVE YOU SOME PHOTOS TO LIVE THROUGH……………XX
Caroline
· Reply

January 6, 2017 at 3:31 PM

Life truly is what you make it – and you make it beautiful! Love love love all the four legged babies and grand babies. Thank you for bringing such joy with each and every post.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 7, 2017 at 8:01 AM
  
  MY PLEASURE CAROLINE……………I ‘m SO happy YOU all ENJOY ME and MY CHATTER!
  I LOST A FEW FOLLOWERS from this POST…………..ALOT of FOLKS do not GET ME or my WAY of LIVING.THANKS for commenting!!!XX
Brenda
· Reply

January 6, 2017 at 11:26 AM

OOOOHHH LA LA!!!! La Contessa is going to the Garden Show in LONDON!!!! I am beyond elated for YOU…… & I can see you floating through the Gardens in one of your STUNNING hats!! Hugs & Love
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 7, 2017 at 7:52 AM
  
  BUT WHICH ONE…………MAY NEED A NEW ONE!!!!
  GRAZIE BELLA………..XX
Susan B.
· Reply

January 6, 2017 at 8:42 AM

Wow, the Chelsea Flower Show! And an opera-singing neighbor! 2017 is off to a great start for you, I think!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 7, 2017 at 7:51 AM
  
  ME TOO!!!
  merci……..XX
Libby
· Reply

January 6, 2017 at 7:28 AM

Chelsea Flower Show!!! Oh my: I had every intention of going this year (first time!) but now for various reasons, cannot. Oh, wouldn’t that have been fun??? So I’m hoping to go in July to the Hampton Court show and then do a 4 day garden tour of some kind. Am looking into them now and have my garden tour expert helping me.
What wonderful pictures of your holiday, and you are lucky to have a man who cooks!! I don’t. Well, he does ALL the cleaning and is superb at it, so I think that’s a good substitute, no?
Happy New Year to you Contessa!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 6, 2017 at 8:03 AM
  
  HAMPTON COURT is suppose to BE GRAND!WE can talk after: I will fill you in on CHELSEA and you fill me in on THE COURT!
  THAT would have been LOADS of FUN meeting up in ENGLAND!!!!!!!
  One of my DEAREST friends will be in LONDON at the CHELSEA SHOW the same week!
  ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!!!WE didNOT plan it at all.
  XX
Katie Clooney
· Reply

January 6, 2017 at 7:26 AM

Hello Contessa! What a fabulous holiday you had. Love your wreath headwear and those pearls are to die for! That handsome Italian and his loaves of bread should be on the cover of a magazine! What a fabulous Christmas gift! You are going to have the time of your life in London. Hope that 2017 is you best year yet!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 6, 2017 at 8:00 AM
  
  I will WAVE as I pass over…………..remember to LOOK UP!
  I will TELL HIM!
  I think YOU are RIGHT about having THE TIME OF MY LIFE!!!!!!!!
  GETTING VERY EXCITED!
  XX
Penelope Bianchi
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 6:11 PM

You should just hear my computer making all this noise with all your comments! It is so funny! YAY how popular you are! And for all the right reasons!!!

XXOO
Penelope
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:30 PM
  
  BING BING DING DING…………SORRY ABOUT THAT it is I answering my GUESTS!!!!!!
  XO
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    January 6, 2017 at 12:20 AM
    
    It is so much fun to hear! You are so right! chirping constantly! It makes my heart happy to hear!
    You are the BEST!
Ms. Mary
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 5:46 PM

Such a great post. Action-packed, as always.
Your new Italian neighbor will be a great addition to the neighborhood.
You will LOVE the flower show-What other famous gardens will you see while you are in London?
Your GP is a real doll-what a sweet gift. Happy Birthday to HIM!
<3
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:29 PM
  
  SISSINGHURST!!!!!!!!!!IS THE GRAND FINAL…………..which is GOOD as I will POSITIVELY MELT.ANY Books I should read before hand……on VITA that you may share?ALSO, KEW GARDENS is on the list and the home of CHURCHHILL……….there are MORE but they escape me………OH YES!WINDSOR CASTLE Is an excursion……………be still my heart!
  XX
Ali
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 5:34 PM

Wonderful post as usual….I used to have a Corgi….interesting breed. They don’t know that they are little. No wonder your husband is so wonderful…he is a Capricorn. I have the same birthday…..much too close to Christmas.

Ali
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:26 PM
  
  YOU ARE SPOT on about the CORGI!He took on a BOXER TODAY!
  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
  I think HE would agree……….growing up in ITALY all his chums were on HOLIDAY still so NO PARTIES!!!HIS cakes were always PANETONE……….but much better THAN CHRISTMAS DAY!
  XX
Lee Anne
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 5:07 PM

Contessa!! That beautiful child that sings Italian opera?? The gift that keeps on giving!! Congratulations on your trip to Chelsea!! I’m just overcome. You are well loved madam and so deserving. Your whole family, furry and not are just the best! I love the puzzle. So clever and the Italian’s bread! I would eat yours gladly. Lastly your ornament looks fab on you. How thoughtful of her!! Happy Happy New Year! So glad you continue to post!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:23 PM
  
  YOU are SO RIGHT!
  THE GIFT that keeps on GIVING!!!!!!!!
  I AM OVER COME AS WELL…………still cannot BELIEVE IT!
  THANKS for YOUR COMMENTS!!!!MAKE MY DAY!
  XX
RebeccaNYC
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 2:02 PM

oh…wait, I have more. Your little neighbor sings opera? I have to wonder what repertoire he is singing at that age…soprano? Tell ALL!! How lovely that the youth of today are still interested in a very old art form. I just love that. xoxoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 3:27 PM
  
  MOVES IN TOMORROW!!!!
  FATHER is ITALIAN 100% like my HUSBAND!
  I need MORE time to get the SCOOP!!!!!!!!!!
  I will let YOU KNOW!Have already requested he preform at my birthday party!
  FUN FACT……..his birthday is the day after mine!
  XO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 6, 2017 at 5:07 PM
  
  TENOR!
  VERDI is his favorite!!!!!!!!!!
RebeccaNYC
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 2:00 PM

Oh my goodness, how chuffed I am about making your blog! My claim to fame! Glad you like the ornament…when I look out from the stage, I see the lights those ornaments are based on (someday you will see them in person) and I think of you. And how exciting to be going to London! I need to go, too!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:21 PM
  
  CHUFFED…….I heard that word for the FIRST time this YEAR!
  LOVE THE ORNAMENT……..and YOU ARE A STAR!
  I would LOVE to have YOU on the TRIP!Maybe FRANCE Next year as LONDON is CALLING!!!!
  XO
foodiefan
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 1:47 PM

You are looking so regal in your photos!! OMG the Italian husband out did himself this year with the most wonderful generous Christmas present to you……Chelsea Flower Show!! Knowing you, I’m sure you will see the Queen when she visits and maybe even lucky to see The Duchess of Cambridge too! There is an Australian nursery from Victoria that competes every year and has won several times for best display. Your London online friends will be so excited to finally meet you……you should have a soirée somewhere for everyone to gather and meet don’t you think?
Just seen that the West Coast of US will be getting terrible storms again…..feeling glad we have left San Francisco just at the right time and now enjoying the amazing hot weather 35 C (91F) back home. At least it’s easier to get dressed with my fractured shoulder in summer clothes than in winter clothes!!
You will be a divine mentor to your young operatic singing neighbour…….so lovely for him to have neighbours that enjoy his craft rather than ones that whine about the noise!
Loving Giampiero’s bread……I can almost smell it from here!! Happy birthday to him. Think when he decides to retire he should give cooking classes to all those who want to learn how to cook with the outdoor oven……he would be a smashing success and you could show everyone how to do amazing table settings……
Hope 2017 is a fabulous year to both you and Giampiero!! xo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:18 PM
  
  SO, HAPPY you made it HOME!I hope the airlines PUSHED YOU UP FRONT!
  YES, The ITALIAN needs to be in the FOOD BUSINESS!!!
  I could be the ENTERTAINMENT!!!!!!!
  Look forward to seeing YOU next trip!!!!!!!
  TAKE CARE of yourself…….DON’t PUSH IT!
  XO
- foodiefan
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 7:17 PM
  
  Yes, you would be the hostess with the mostess!! Wasn’t exactly pushed up the front and plane so incredibly delayed that it took so much longer to get home than hoped but resting so I can come back……just praying all that rain will have gone before I return!!! Good to help with the drought though…….
Jennifer
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 1:37 PM

Bravo, GP!! Way to go. You will have an amazing time! It’s freezing here in Palm Springs too. NOT FAIR!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:14 PM
  
  ARE you checking out some real estate?
  STAY warm in that CAMPER………….don’t forget the SHOP!!
  XX
Loree
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 12:07 PM

What a wonderful post. It had me smiling all the way. How wonderful that you will get to go to the Chelsea Flower Show. I am sure that your presence will just make it more wonderful this year. It is getting cold (for us) here too. The temperature will drop below 10C during the day tomorrow. That rarely happens in this part of the world. I am happy because I will get to wear my gloves and thick jackets and other cosy things.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:13 PM
  
  THAT IS COLD for MALTA!!!!!!!!!
  HA!
  YOU think anyone will notice ME?I probably will have a MELTDOWN………I normally DO in places that MOVE ME!THEN I WILL BE NOTICED!!!!!!!!
  HAPPY for YOU to be able to wear that MIDWEST STUFF!!!!!!!!
  XX
Jennifer Lively
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 11:52 AM

Visiting the Chelsea Flower Show in the Spring sounds so exciting. The Italian certainly listened!
I loved the photo of him in his chef jacket showing off the bread that he made. He’s definitely a keeper. And you never looked better or happier! It’s probably because you were surrounded by all the people and animals that you love! I LOVE the photo of you and the boxer wearing the life vest. Thank you for being you and providing your readers with such sparkle and joy! Happy 2017
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:11 PM
  
  I await a PHOTO of YOU with your THREE DAUGHTERS!!!!!!!!
  I did SPY the MARITO in your BLOG and he is a HANDSOME FELLOW!
  HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU across the bridge!XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 11:37 AM

VIA EMAIL:

Hello Elizabeth!!!!!!!! So wonderful to see what you are up to lately. Amy and I really miss the Hen House, but we’re happy you are still are indulging in and enjoying your passions. It must be what keeps you so young and beautiful. I had major spine surgery last year and I’ve been relatively housebound. So it was especially fun and uplifting to get your email. Please keep me on your list. And Happy New Year! Warmest wishes, Candy
PPP
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 11:35 AM

Ma cheer Contessa,
I so enjoyed the sparkle of your holidays. I loved your glamorous threads and inventive choice to hang the ornament on yourself! And you adorned with furry boxer dogs cozy on velvet.
A visit to Chelsea English Gardens is a grand idea for 2017, so lovely of the Italian to listen to you. He is a marvelous husband.
Happy New Year. Avid readers like me await new shared joys in 2017. I hope to smile a lot seeing the wonderful colors of your garden bloom again!

PPP

P.S. I could almost smell GP’s freshly baked bread!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:09 PM
  
  I can deliver a loaf next time HE BAKES!A zip through the NEW tunnel……..I can be there in a JIFFY!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 11:29 AM

VIA EMAIL:

This brought the biggest smile to my face this morning. I love reading about your adventures and style — you’re amazing. Happy New Year, gorgeous. Enjoy every wonderful thing that comes your way… and thank you for sharing.

XOXO
Nicky
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:08 PM
  
  THANK YOU for leaving me a NOTE!
  I want to see those GOATS!!!!!!!
  XX
Fran
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 10:41 AM

CARA CONTESSA, YOU HAVE DONE IT AGAIN!!!! LOVE EVERYTHING about this post!!!!
Did NOT want it to END!!!! How GORGEOUS ARE YOU!!!! Your dogs and Theodore……MADE ME MELT!!!! ….AND, you have the Cutest NEW neighbor!!!! THANK YOU for sharing, CARA CONTESSA!!!! I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOUR LONDON GARDEN TOUR PICS!!!! SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!! SAY HELLO TO THE QUEEN for us and MAKE SURE you check to see that ALL YOUR EXQUISITE JEWELLRY pieces are STILL ON YOU BEFORE YOU LEAVE HER PALACE!! 😉 !! XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:07 PM
  
  WILL DO!!!!!!!!!!!!XX
Lisa White
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 10:40 AM

Reading your blog is such a treat…love it! Handsome Italian baker, incredible decorating, adorable pup accessories, a talented young neighbor across the street, and oodles of fun stories. Love the ornament story. It should be winding its way to you from an opera diva. whoo hoo!! Then, a trip to the U.K. … yes…you are still celebrating in grand style!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:06 PM
  
  ALWAYS……………WE MUST CELEBRATE ALWAYS!!!!!!!
  LOOK forward to meeting YOU!
  XX
Pat
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 10:24 AM

I always knew Giampiero was a treasure! He out did himself this year!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:05 PM
  
  YOU Must tell me where to go…………XX
Marsha Scott
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 10:22 AM

Well, my dear, you have outdone yourself with this post!!!
I love the dog pics as I LOVE DOGS, just like you.
What an adventure you have coming up in the springtime. We must talk as maybe I would like to tag along with you?????
Beautiful photographs of such a lovely family. And, the opera singer in NYC, what a beautiful tribute to you, my darling. Believe me, it’s a tribute !!!
Sending love to you & that Italian man….
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:04 PM
  
  WHAT A NICE THING TO SAY!
  YOU the one who found me and pulled me into THAT fabulous BLOGGING GROUP!
  I’m on a TOUR. Let me touch base with them and see. I know they fill up fast or so I’m told!
  LET’s CHAT!
  XX
Laura
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 9:56 AM

Wishing you the best in 2017, Contessa!
Looks like your New Year is off to a great start. The photos show such a warm and cozy home with family and pets.
As you said….”paws on velvet”. Doesn’t get better than that!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:01 PM
  
  NOT in MY WORLD…………PAWS and VELVET the perfect COMBO!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Stella
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 9:27 AM

I think I could almost smell the bread that your Italian made. Yummie.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 6:00 PM
  
  I shall put some in envelope and mail!
  XX
SAJ
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 9:15 AM

Happy birthday to the Italian! I insist on preparing my own birthday meal as well, which is always a gin and tonic crab cake lunch with amazing French fries and spicy tartar sauce. Then dessert is key lime pie.
Glad that you are keeping the holiday spirit alive! I chopped my tree into pieces with no ceremony and dragged it to the curb. So exciting about London!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 5:59 PM
  
  MY TREE STILL HERE………STILL SPARKLY……..STILL PREFORMING!
  I am NEVER in a HURRY to take HER DOWN………..as she lights my way in the early morning darkness to the coffee machine!The ITALIAN has her on a TIMER……….then I march off to bed when she IS SPENT, which is 10 pm!
  LOVE the sound of your BDAY LUNCH!!!!!!!!
  I bet YOU make the BEST KEY LIME PIE………….the woman I sent to find YOU that is her favorite pie as well!SMALL WORLD.
  XX
Melissa
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 9:15 AM

Great post & sounds like a fabulous Christmas all around. So exciting to travel to the Chelsea Flower Show this spring!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 5:00 PM
  
  MANY THANKS MELISSA……………I will be a kid in a candy store NO DOUBT!
  XX
Heidi
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 9:09 AM

Happiest New Year Contessa Dear! Italian husbands are THE best! We are so blessed to have them. So happy you are going to the garden show in London, can’t wait to see your glamorous ensembles! I used to live there for a short time I hope you visit Fortnum & Mason, Bob Bob Ricard & Harrods!!! Many blessings, jewels, flowers & glorious adventures for the new year!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 4:59 PM
  
  THANK YOU for ALL your suggestions!What is BOB BOB?
  Where is YOUR ITALIAN from SUD or NORD?
  XX
- Heidi
  · Reply
  
  January 6, 2017 at 6:21 AM
  
  Contessa, Bob Bob Ricard is a Resturant in London that has a “push for champagne” button in its booths. I have never been there but would love to go! My girlfriend made me a similar sign for our dining room wall that I adore! My Italian is from Pietra Cupa, can’t remember if it’s N/S? It’s a very small farm town, so small if fact that we had a customer print out a map to put in the store to tell people where my sweetheart is from. His Mother is from Miore (spell?) a beautiful town by the sea. Where is your Italian from?
Bungalow Hostess
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 9:03 AM

Oh my you do look fabulous in that wreath…I thought it a hat at first glance!
How wonderful that you are off to the Chelsea Show…and to meet up with bloggers and friends that is just the icing on the cake…a gift that will be a delight and all those gardens….oh I am swooning.
BTW it’s minus 3 degrees today and we have more snow in the forecast.
Happy New Year!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 4:58 PM
  
  I hope you stayed PUT and knitted away………….MINUS 3………………OUCH!How do those KITTY’s do with the cold weather?
  XX
the gardeners cottage
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 8:40 AM

how lovely everything looks. i went to the chelsea garden show 3 years ago and it was wonderful. it was actually a 2 week english garden tour that was flat out AMAZING. also, i used to have an orange cat named thomas. i miss that cat, he was one in a million! xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 4:56 PM
  
  WELL,I too am on a GARDEN TOUR!!!!!NOT TWO WEEKS but close.MAYBE I should call you and you can give me some tips?THOMAS reminds me of a movie when I was young about a cat named THOMASINA…………does anyone recall that movie?OR was it a show?I LOVED IT!XX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 8:28 AM

Truly you bring joy to the world! I’m lucky becuase I get to see you in London. I too am going to the Chelsea Flower Show. Maybe we should gather a group to have a London Meetup!!! Now that’s an idea. Those loaves of bread are so enticing. My husband can slice a banana and make cornflakes. Does that count? No. Love to you and your whole family!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 4:53 PM
  
  I LOVE THAT YOU will be in LONDON when IAM THERE!I LOVE THAT IT TOOK ME TWO DAYS TO FIGURE THAT OUT ALSO!!!!!!YOUR IDEA ABOUT A MEET UP IS BRILLIANT as they say OVER YONDER!I will get my itinerary and mark the date and we can do a MASS MAILING!!!!!!!!!WILL be in touch……….HOW DID THE CAKE TURN OUT?
  XX
Mithra Ballesteros
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 8:24 AM

You are such a darling! As are your animals and your sons. But the award this week for most beloved must go to the Italian for his lovingly thought-out gift. Yay!! And on a side note, I loved opening up Carla Coulson’s recent blog post and seeing pics and a reference to you!! Happy 2017! And
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 4:50 PM
  
  TRA.LA!
  I AM EVERY WHERE IN YOUR LIFE sometimes!!!!SHE HAS A BEAUTIFUL BLOG but I can NEVER comment!IT DRIVES ME MAD sometimes……………have you had success in that department?THE ITALIAN well he gets a 10 MOST DAYS…….he can SLIP UP TOO!BUT NOT on important occasions!XX
Charlotte Des Fleurs
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 8:05 AM

Dearest Contessa, Balmy indeed! My dear son who grew up here in southern California near San Diego now lives in Montana. He now endures below freezing temps without a whimper. I am like you, when it gets to be below 50, I am cold! I bought a space heater at Habitat for Humanity ReStore for only $29 that looks like a mini fireplace. It was in perfect condition and still in the box with all parts still packed, remote, etc. When my grandkids were here for the Holidays, I put it on a little furniture dolly and moved it from room to room. We all had fun sitting by “the fire” . Now I’m enjoying it in my TV room as it is about 45 degrees. Yes, we have central heating – 3 furnaces and a fireplace in fact, but why heat the whole, huge house when you only need one room to be toasty?

Wishing you a wonderful New Year and très jalouse about your trip to the Chelsea Flower Show. That is on MY list as well.

Smiles from Charlotte Des Fleurs
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 5, 2017 at 4:47 PM
  
  SOUNDS like a WINNER your little HOT HEATER!
  HAPPY NEW YEAR!
  XX
Eleni
· Reply

January 5, 2017 at 7:44 AM

Good morning, Contessa from snowy Canada, a wonderful blog from you today, so much to read and digest, a great start to my day. I saw your picture on Carla Coulson’s blog – magnificent pose…..
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:46 PM
  
  YOU are the second to tell me this!!!!!!!!!
  THAT was SOME WONDERFUL FUN!!!!!!!
  PARIS…….SONS and CARLA and CHICKENS!
  XX
Lindsay
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January 5, 2017 at 7:29 AM

Those jewels are stunning! That little boy is darling!! Happy Birthday to the Italian! How thrilling you get to attend the Garden show in London!! Cannot wait for pictures and stories! ????????????
Xoxox
- Lindsay
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  January 5, 2017 at 7:30 AM
  
  Oops, my flower emojis turned up as a bunch of ?????
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:43 PM
  
  LOTS of STORIES I HOPE……..best one will be running into KATE in a LADIES ROOM!!!!!!!!
  XX
Anita Rivera
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January 5, 2017 at 7:25 AM

Good morning Madame, Contessa, wonderful person, YOU! I love how you adore life around you. What a gift to receive from that opera singer! Many great people out there, and I’ve been blessed to correspond with many of them. May your 2017 continue to ROCK wildly and full of love.
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:42 PM
  
  MERCI MADAME ANITA!MERCI………….
  HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR!
  XX
Muffie
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January 5, 2017 at 7:00 AM

You are a joy to all who follow you. What an amazing gift from the Italian many many gold stars. What a wonderful Christmas and new year you have had lots of joyness lots of hugs Muffie
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:41 PM
  
  YOU GIVE ME JOY right back when YOU COMMENT!
  HELLO TO SOUTH AFRICA!!!!!!!
  XX
Jacqueline
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January 5, 2017 at 6:57 AM

You look FAB-u-lous Elizabeth !!
…. and, you are going to LOVE Chelsea …… we have been and it’s wonderful. XXXX
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:28 PM
  
  I KNOW I WILL…………..that will be a problem upon my return!I will have to start from SCRATCH with THE GARDINO!!!!!!!!
  ME thinks you are close to LONDON!
  XX
D. A. Wolf
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January 5, 2017 at 6:51 AM

The lifejacket on your dog is just too cute! And I love all those pearls on you. Not too many of us can carry that off, but you do — without question.

And the Italian’s bread! Oh, you’ve made me hungry, and I still have not undone the damage to the waistline from the holiday.

Sending New Years hugs!
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:26 PM
  
  SENDING MY BEST TO YOU!
  WE must sip warm water when WE feel the URGE to nibble!!!!!!!!
  IT WILL BE A GOOD YEAR!I CAN FEEL IT ALREADY!
  XX
ellie's friend from Canada
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January 5, 2017 at 6:49 AM

Hi Elizabeth,
What a wonderful husband you have – imagine giving you a trip to the Chelsea Flower Show! Your comment about the cold weather invites mirth considering our recent -40 temperatures in Canada. The most popular thing to talk about here is the weather. Whole books could be written about it! Your 30 or 40 degree weather sounds balmy compared to our recent -40 degree weather. We hope for a Chinook, the warm westerly wind, that makes the temperature goes up quickly. I loved you heart-warming blog. THE Italian is great! Happy New Year.
katerina stepovikov
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January 5, 2017 at 6:40 AM

Ah Contessa saw you today in Carla Coulsons post….in the floor length red coat and gown. Magnificent !!! I would lurve to know….was it tailored for ye…your the best !! xxx
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:23 PM
  
  NO!
  Found on a SALE rack many many years ago………IT was $100.00 on SALE.I had to have it as it touched the floor and BEYOND!I being 5’11” tall always had a hard time finding clothing THAT DRAGGED!IT took a few years for it to EMERGE from the CLOSET,but it was worth the wait!Now, it sits there AGAIN in the closet waiting for another PERFORMANCE!
  THANK YOU for telling me about ME being on CARLA COULSONS BLOG Today!I SUBSCRIBE but may not have opened until tomorrow!!!!XX
Donna
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January 5, 2017 at 6:35 AM

Dear Vintage Contessa, thank you for your WONDERFUL blog. From Grand Dog Goose’s life vest to paws on velvet. Your New Years greeting made my day! Being gulten free also, I know how difficult it can be during the holidays. I just wish I didn’t remember how wonderful fresh baked bread tasted.
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:02 PM
  
  DONNA……………
  I chew a bit then spit it OUT!NOT the same BUT OOOOHHHHHH!!!!!!!
  THANK YOU for saying I have a WONDERFUL BLOG because sometimes I wonder what am I doing!!!XX
Elle
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January 5, 2017 at 6:33 AM

La Contessa you are magnificent! Should you ever fancy a sojourn in Africa, come stay with me in Cape Town. It will be like welcoming the goddess of glamour, and you can be sure I will sparkle up the chandeliers and candelabra in your honour! XXX
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 4:00 PM
  
  ELLE!
  I LOVE CAPE TOWN!
  MY GOD DAUGHTERS ARE THERE and there is a clothing outfit called HOMEWORK do you know it?She made divine VELVET and long gowns for everyday!I WOULD LOVE TO COME FOR A VISIT!BUT FIRST LONDON in the SPRING TIME!
  XX
Susan
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January 5, 2017 at 6:32 AM

What a fantastic holiday you have had. London in the Spring will be outstanding. The Italian is a real keeper. So thoughtful, sweet and even a cook. Sounds like you have the perfect new neighbor. This talented young boy will bring much joy. The smile on his face says it all. Meeting a Met opera singer through your blog is so Contessa!!! Only you could accomplish such feats. Getting to NY to meet your new friend and going to the Met sounds like great fun. Your Fur-grand babies look happy and healthy. A perfect Christmas! Thank you for sharing. Love your blog. Susan
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:58 PM
  
  IT TRUELY IS magical to think this 8 year old has arrived who speaks and sings ITALIAN!!
  THE PARENTS ARE DIVINE AS WELL…………..
  A SMALL MIRACLE………as the last few people who have moved onto our street are RATHER MISSING IN ACTION!
  XX
Our French Oasis
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January 5, 2017 at 6:25 AM

What a truly fabulous post to read, it looks as if you had the perfect Christmas, and you look fantastic, as always, I might add. But the Chelsea Flower Show, I am envious immediately. I have only ever been once, years ago and I watch it avidly each evening in May on the TV, not the same, but the best I can get, so many ideas, so much to see and so much atmosphere. But most of all a very very happy and healthy 2017 to you. And do you think you will make it to France at the same time as London? A little visit perhaps??? Susan Xx
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:53 PM
  
  NO!
  The ITALIAN only lets me escape for a short while as HE misses me and MY LUNCHES I PACK SO LOVINGLY for HIM!!!!!(THAT is a JOKE)as some days he comes home and says” THERE WAS NO LOVE IN MY SANDWICH TODAY!”
  But tell me are you right across the CHANEL?HOW FAR……….a little research NEVER HURT!!!
  XX
- Our French Oasis
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  January 12, 2017 at 2:25 PM
  
  Well just across the Channel is a bit of an exaggeration, the Channel and then several hours drive south!! But where there is a will there’s a way, perhaps I should fly to London!
Lis
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January 5, 2017 at 4:10 AM

First of all I so look forward to reading your blog. You will love the Chelsea Garden Show. We went about 17 years ago. It was such fun. Have you been to the Philidelphia FS? Oh and the Met. I have been there 3 times for opera and Madame Butterfly, although sad was so suspensful. Have fun. The chandelier at the Met was gorgeous. I felt like I had entered the world of enchantment. Lis
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:49 PM
  
  NEVER been to the SHOW in PA.However, there is a GARDEN there as well that I would like to SEE!
  LONG WOOD?? Something along those lines……………..
  ANY OPERA HOUSE would be MY land of enchantment!I HOPE TO VISIT ONE DAY!
  WE can compare NOTES THEN!
  XX
- Lis
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  January 8, 2017 at 4:31 AM
  
  Longwood Gardens is great too. If you are in the area, it is worth a visit. But wear great walking shoes. It is a showplace that we have enjoyed.
Penelope Bianchi
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January 4, 2017 at 11:27 PM

Oh what a gift you are to all of us Contessa!!!!
BRAVA!!! We are so lucky!!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:46 PM
  
  I AM the LUCKY ONE that SO MANY of YOU enjoy my little SOIREE’s!!!!!!!!!!
  XX
Kathy L
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January 4, 2017 at 10:36 PM

What an upbeat, joyful post that captured your holidays beautifully. So many festive photos. Love your Christmas Eve ensemble. London in the spring is something wonderful to which you can look forward this chilly, dreary winter. Happy New Year!
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:45 PM
  
  LOOKING FORWARD TO IT ALL…………….what hat to take, will linen be warm enough SO MANY QUESTIONS and decisions!
  THANK YOU for being HERE!
  XX
Ellie's friend from Canada
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January 4, 2017 at 10:15 PM

Well, you invited Canadians to laugh at your 30 or 40 degrees F weather. Or at least said we would laugh! The only way I could warm up today is by laughing at your temperature. As a rare treat, a friend took me for a drive in the countryside. It was a balmy -11C (+12F) but much colder with the wind chill. Yet it was much better than the -40C. (= -40F) some places had this past weekend. My friend knew that I always wanted to see a Snowy Owl so off we went today. Usually she has a car that’s very allergic for me but she got a new car and has not let the dogs in it yet. So it was the most wonderful Christmas present. It was supposed to be a sunny, if cold day, but the moment we got out into the countryside, the sky clouded over and it started to snow. The snow swirled across the dirt roads. I never knew there could be that many shades of grey. And then as we travelled south, the storm lifted and we had blue skies again. The heat was on in the car but the toes on my right foot mysteriously were freezing. Yet everything else was warm. I had my lovely up-to-the-knees-and-beyond Italian wool socks on. Finally, I caved in and asked for more heat. We had no coats on because of how warm we were but my toes were still cold! After all of that, I reached home and couldn’t believe we had seen no owls even though we went exactly to the same place as a friend who emailed he had seen 2 there. What is this? Is there a Snowy Owl curse on me? The joke on these birds is they migrate south to our area to escape the frigid temperatures in the Arctic only to find equally cold temperatures here. So I read your blog, dear Elizabeth, and laughed and laughed, warming up as I read. It worked partially. I have a pile of blankets I’m hiding under too. Happy New Year. P.S. Make sure you dress warmly! P.S.#2 Who is the handsome opera singer? P.S. #3 How wonderful you’re going to the Chelsea Garden Show! What a heart-warming gift from the Italian. And the bread (I wish I had his recipe!). or better yet a clone of THE Italian.
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:35 PM
  
  -11C…………….I CANNOT IMAGINE!
  WHY ON EARTH do you travel in that kind of weather……..ENLIGHTEN ME!
  What if the car broke down!!!!!!!???
  STAY PUT. HOPE you have a pot of soup on the stove!
  XX
- ellie's friend from Canada
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  January 5, 2017 at 10:14 PM
  
  If the car broke down, we had emergency food, water, a fully charged cell phone, layered heavy clothes. I thought we should have cardboard (to put under tires for traction if stuck), a shovel, a blanket or two and a candle and matches but my friend thought it was too much. So we took food. (If it were my car, I would have an emergency kit. Once her dogs are in the car, I couldn’t go in her car due to allergies (now or never!). It was a great gift to be taken for a country drive! The roads were good.
  
  You are a mind reader –– I made a borscht-like soup today! Now if only I had your husband’s bread! Sorry to duplicate replies but when I looked before the longer one had disappeared! It’s snowing tonight and the temperature goes down again! Don’t worry. I’ll be inside! Snow too heavy for me to shovel. Help is on its way. -11C is +12F. It’s not bad! -40 C = -40F. That is dangerously cold!
Taste of France
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January 4, 2017 at 9:44 PM

The Italian wins Best Husband Award for that Christmas present–points not only for getting you something you want but a bonus for the clever puzzle presentation. Perfect 10 Gold Medal for him.
What wonderful bookends with the Met singer’s gift and the new neighbor. Opera all around.
Best wishes, and above all good health, for the New Year!
- LA CONTESSA
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  January 5, 2017 at 3:31 PM
  
  HE IS A KEEPER!
  I DO KNOW HOW LUCKY IAM…………BUT then AGAIN my MOTHER TOLD ME TO LOOK TWICE!
  HAVE I Told that story?Maybe I did in the wedding POST.If NOT that is a GOOD STORY to SHARE………….
  TO YOU AS WELL.YOU are ALWAYS my NUMBER ONE TO COMMENT!!!!!
  LOVE THAT!
  XX