THE GRAND FINALE.

November 20, 2018 85 Comments

HARD TO PICK JUST ONE PAIR!

BUT I DID IT!

Then I got into the BIG CHRISTMAS TREE PINS which I COLLECT by VBRO.

Could NOT STOP AT ONE!

When ONE is in LONDON on PEMBRIDGE ROAD, which is at the TOP of PORTOBELLO ROAD ONE tends to GO FOR IT!

Who knows if I will ever RETURN!

I had to make a memory or THREE!

HIRST COLLECTION

59 PEMBRIDGE ROAD LONDON

Instagram @thehirstcollection

Phone number 02077279364

www.thehirstcollection.etsy.com

I DID LEAVE A FEW THINGS IN THE SHOP!!!!!!!

However, these ARE SPOKEN FOR.

It is THIS GUY’S FAULT more or less………

He took me to PORTOBELLO ROAD for my FIRST VISIT EVER!

If you are in the ANTIQUE BUSINESS you have definitely heard of this STREET!

We walked down it on a FRIDAY morning………..me chatting away.

Head swinging from RIGHT to LEFT. LEFT to RIGHT.

Nick who is my FRIEND from INSTAGRAM was pointing out the sights like where HE lived a few years ago and the BLUE DOOR used in the movie NOTTING HILL.

I was taking it all in especially when he tells me that a MAN will start yelling at him so not to be alarmed!

I think I replied OKAY and kept walking!

We ended up in the VINTAGE CLOTHING SECTION and its LONDON’S FASHION WEEK so people are all a buzz.

See the piece on the table laying flat?

I had my eye on that!

THIS IS ANTON!

THE SCREAMING GUY!

HE had ZERO HIGH PITCHED WORDS FOR MY BUDDY NICK!

THANK GOODNESS……..

Don’t YOU love his CRAVAT?

Do YOU Think I Can Get THE ITALIAN to wear one?

Nick, saying HELLO to a FEW FRIENDS along our route.

Don’t YOU JUST LOVE HIS SHIRT!!!?

This is NOT a KIND photo of my DEAR FRIEND but I had to show you this photo as he tried THE KIMONO on.

I of course snapped a photo so he could see what he looked like!

As soon as I took this photo I told him to turn the Kimono inside OUT!

See that RED inside the sleeve?

I think HE LISTENED TO ME!

WE must check INSTAGRAM for a PHOTO of NICK in a RED KIMONO!

TO find him his call name there is PERIODPORTRAITS.

He sells GORGEOUS ANTIQUE PORTRAITS!

You do not want to MISS HIS end of the week, SUNDAY 60 SECOND BROADCAST!

I REALLY THINK HE SHOULD BE IN THEATRE!

HE has had some INTERESTING JOBS along the way………..ONE of which was a RARE CHICKEN BREEDER!!

((I was the owner of THE HEN HOUSE!))

He has a way with the written word……..I’ve learned a few NEW WORDS by Following HIM!

Which makes sense when he worked for BRITISH VOQUE on the FASHION TEAM and BAZAAR UK as an EDITOR!

LAURA ASHLEY as a CREATIVE DIRECTOR TOO

which came OUT at the Bank MACHINE!!!

SOMEHOW,MISTER PERIOD PORTRAITS found ME on INSTAGRAM!

I think that was THREE YEARS AGO NOW……….

CAN I SAY HE IS EVEN MORE CHARMING in PERSON and has a GREAT EYE for the GOOD STUFF!

I was doing so well about NOT BUYING A THING on PORTOBELLO ROAD when he says,

“Lets Pop In HERE I Think You WILL like This Shop!”

(((HOW DID HE KNOW!)))

I barely got inside THE DOOR!

IT was FULL of SILVER!

Something I’m VERY PARTIAL TOO!

I IMMEDIATELY went into THE BARGINING MODE after I asked THE MAN for a TISSUE!

Which he kindly gave me from his pocket which was a paper napkin!

(( RECALL PEOPLE it is the end of my trip and I HAVE NO MORE ROOM TO PACK THINGS!

HAVE ALREADY SENT A BOX HOME from SHERBORNNE! Which was my FIRST STOP!!))

TO CONTACT MY FRIEND OR CRUISE HIS WEBSITE CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

YOU CAN THANK ME ANOTHER TIME!

I wonder if MY SANTA is READING THIS POST!

ANY WILL DO!

I want to cover my kitchen walls in PORTRAITS!

It’s a GOAL……..with THE REAL ONES like NICK carries!

GO PEEK!

DOESN’T COST A THING TO HAVE A LOOK!

There are TWO of these and Nick Helped me NEGOTIATE.

You see I COLLECT wine VESSELS!

I really DO NOT NEED ANYMORE!!!!!!!

They Traveled HOME with me in my BASKET HANDBAG along with a Little FLORENTINE TABLE!

YES!

A TABLE in my HANDBAG!

KEEP READING!

Do NOTE I wore a PORTRAIT on MY HAT!

I wanted to MAKE SURE HE KNEW WHO I WAS!

Which was given to me for MY Birthday a few years ago from my Buddy RAE!

I ADORE IT!

After that walk and Lunch with Nick I had a Pot of TEA at THE LASLETT.

Every Day a different TEA POT would make an APPEARANCE!

I really thought about PINCHING them!

Of course I used ONE lump of BROWN SUGAR as well……

When In LONDON do as the LONDONER’S DO!

Don’t YOU AGREE?

Which TEAPOT SPEAKS TO YOU…….. Number ONE or TWO?

MY GIRLS AT THE LASLETT in London.

TWO of which are ITALIAN!

They did a FABULOUS JOB.

Perfect little Hotel location for PORTOBELLO ROAD and KENSINGTON PALACE!

NEXT DAY I HIT KENSINGTON PALACE on FOOT!!

This is the OLD GRAND STAIRCASE!

THESE PAINTINGS were GORGEOUS!

SO, UP UP AND AWAY I WENT!

HERE I AM BEFORE THE CLIMB!

Check OUT the LANTERN above my HEAD!

I have SIMILAR Lanterns at HOME!

GO FIGURE!

((When THE ITALIAN installed them the neighbors came by to see the RESULTS all LIT UP!

He ran out with a bottle of champagne on a tray and stemware!))

YOU SEE WHY I KEEP HIM AROUND!

A HANDYMAN with MANNERS who does SPONTANEOUS FUN THINGS!

I ADORE HIM

HAVE I EVER SHARED HOW WE MET on THE BLOG?

I have my MOTHER to THANK FOR THAT!

SHE OPENED MY EYES!

AND HERE I AM AFTER climbing the staircase.

WALKING INTO THIS ROOM MADE ME LIGHT UP!

I wanted to DANCE the day away……..

I sat in a WINDOW that had this view!

IT WAS RAINING!

This was the GATE that was filled with MASSES of FLOWERS when DIANA DIED!

Admired the scale of the ROOM and the CURTAINS next to my J.CREW RAIN BOOTS!

Another gorgeous GIFT TO ME from my DEAR FRIEND JENNY!

I SNAPPED this as I KNEW I WOULD NOT RECALL WHICH QUEEN!

SO, you do REALIZE the 17th CENTURY is the 1600’s CORRECT?!!

GORGEOUS!

NOTE the details in his shirt!

Note the collar around HIS neck!!!!

I WILL NEVER UNDERSTAND HOW THIS HAPPENED!

PEOPLE were SMALL back in the DAY!

HARD FOR ME TO GET SMALL!

CEILING ART in KENSINGTON PALACE!

A CLOSER INSPECTION!

LOVE THE SANDALS!!!!!!!

LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THE PAINTING!!!!

MAN in PINK!

BACK STAIRCASE in KENSINGTON PALACE.

Who can TELL ME what this door was for?

It’s sitting on the GROUND so NOT A DUMB WAITER?

It is in a small hallway!

FASCINATING TO ME!

I found this to be ADORABLE!

GAMES set up for children so the PARENTS could wander

THE OLD PALACE!

LOOK WHAT WAS ABOVE THEIR HEADS!

I HOPE THEY DID LOOK UP AT LEAST ONCE!

AT least NO ELECTRONICS in view!

BRAVO ENGLISH PARENTS!

Let’s take a CLOSER LOOK!

This was MASSIVE which you do NOT get from my PHOTOS!

SORRY!

Just a FEW OLD CLOTHES hanging OUT at KENSINGTON PALACE!

ANOTHER VIEW!

HAD ENOUGH YET?

KING GEORGE the SECOND and QUEEN CAROLINE were patrons to HANDEL.

He dedicated compositions to them and taught music to their children.

Plus, brought ITALIAN OPERA SINGERS to THE PALACE!

THIS WOULD MAKE A GREAT PILLOW!

DREAM on BANKSY BOY!

He is MY PILLOW HOAGER!

Can you make out HER DOLL?

AT first I thought SHE was holding a CHICKEN and HIS legs were wrapped!!!!!

WE ARE NOW IN Queen Victoria’s ROOMS…..

I believe that is HER as a YOUNG CHILD holding a wrapped CHICKEN above!

HERE I AM AGAIN with TWO SISTERS who SELL CASHMERE!

Who can NAME THESE BEAUTIES from THE BLOGGING WORLD?

Catherine Robinson CASHMERE is on the RIGHT with HER FABULOUS SISTER Sue on the LEFT!

TO SHOP HER CASHMERE CLICK HERE!

FREE SHIPPING TO THE United States & Canada!

I LOVE THE SOCKS AND THE EXTRA LONG WRAPS!

They scooped me up for dinner and away we went to HARRY’s DOLCE VITA!

Sue’s coffee after dinner.

I heard A LOT of ITALIAN CHATTER around me!

I MET Vicki Archer of that FAMOUS BLOG!

Leave your reply.

Brenda Welch
· Reply

December 27, 2018 at 4:07 PM

OOOOH You Are So FABULOUS!!! Looove the Lil Table that fit in your Basket Purse AND the CHRISTMAS PINS…….The Silver TEAPOT (second one) is my FAVORITE!!! Such a FAB Journey & SO YOU!!!!
I would LOOVE one of your CHRISTMAS Cards too!!! Thank YOU for all your AWESOME Pics…..You Inspire ME!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  January 2, 2019 at 8:46 AM
  
  YOUR CARD has been re-mailed and should be there TODAY or TOMORROW!
  XX
Anita
· Reply

December 19, 2018 at 10:36 PM

I believe the Portobello Road could be your spiritual home Elizabeth.
Does an apartment in London take your fancy?
You really covered some ground Bella.
London must miss you.
Neat xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  December 22, 2018 at 10:03 AM
  
  YES!
  MY FRIEND NICK LIVED ON PORTOBELLO ROAD AT ONE TIME!!!!!!
  I MISS LONDON!
  APARTMENT………but how would I TRANSPORT THE BANKS!!!!!!??
  XX
Barbara Ullman
· Reply

December 3, 2018 at 5:42 PM

Please add my new e-mail address to your wonderful adventures;
Barbara Ullman
remi.olive18@gmail.com
Thank you, loved each and every one of your articles. please delete my old address of barb.rob@charter.net
Have a very Happy Holiday
Juliet
· Reply

November 29, 2018 at 9:15 PM

Teapot #1. Have you gotten The Italian into a cravat? Card, what card? I must have missed something along the way. Can you bring one to lunch? Wait, you asked for my address a while back, perhaps one is in the mail, but I’m here, not there so haven’t seen it yet.
cindy hattersley
· Reply

November 29, 2018 at 7:22 AM

Oh my how did I miss this post?!! I want to see all the treasures you brought back! I know Deborah had such fun with you!
Michele Ranard
· Reply

November 28, 2018 at 8:26 AM

I adore your storytelling and lifegiving spirit, contessa. I wonder if we may have crossed paths at Portobello or Kensington since I was visiting at the end of October (my first trip to London!). Surely the tourism board ought to partner with you for this post will convince everyone to go! xox
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 28, 2018 at 6:44 PM
  
  I was there in SEPTEMBER!
  SO, NO!
  DID you LOVE IT?SOMETHING ABOUT IT that sits so well with me!
  XX
Corey Amaro
· Reply

November 27, 2018 at 3:26 PM

The world is large made small by people like you who share their heart and soul with generosity and open arms. Thank you xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 28, 2018 at 6:47 AM
  
  Well, that made MY DAY!!!!!
  MERCI MADAME MERCI!!!!!!!
  XX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

November 27, 2018 at 10:05 AM

Where do I start? You sound like me when I travel… I always ship something home. The Christmas tree pins… Will you wear them all at once? Would love your earrings but they emphasize my droopy jowls and neck… I really need to get over that! So fun you met these great bloggers and friends from Instagram. That took lots of coordination so BRAVA! Do I remember that you only took two bags to Europe? How many checked and carryons for two weeks? You’re amazing, my darling!! xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 28, 2018 at 6:49 AM
  
  ONE CHECKED BAG on WHEELS!
  One CARRY ON…….PLUS THE BASKET HANDBAG which really is ANOTHER BAG!!!Since it housed the wine coasters and the little FLORENTINE TABLE!
  XOXO
Rosemarie
· Reply

November 26, 2018 at 10:41 PM

CONTESSA – what a trip – what a time. Wish I had been there following in your footsteps. So much to see – so many to meet up with. Great company you had. The shop was fantastic – definitely good buying more than one broach. I loved your table – what a find. Tea time too would have been so much fun – I love teas. Arranged one here in the Stanley Park rose garden for work mates. Tourists stopped to take pics. We offered them treats. I always marvel in the details of clothes – palaces etc – exquisite.

The door – we have one like that at the theatre – in 2 dressing rooms – you went thru a tunnel to end up in the other room. Perhaps it is a small storage area.

This was a great read – enjoyed all the pics.
Marianne Govan
· Reply

November 24, 2018 at 10:06 PM

Hi Elizabeth, just got to the blog post about our airplane ride! Oh my gosh, it was funny to hear you describe it.
Your pictures are wonderful and it’s just fun to read about all of your adventures and the pleasure you find in all the details.
Can’t wait to visit you sometime in the near future. Its going to be a while before things seem normal up here.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 25, 2018 at 1:33 PM
  
  YOU ARE WELCOME ANY TIME!!!!!!!!!
  PLEASE COME SPEND THE DAY WITH ME!!!!!!!!
  I CANNOT EVEN IMAGINE!!!!!!!
  HAPPY YOU ARE OKAY!!!!!!
  XX
Enid Sperber
· Reply

November 24, 2018 at 5:26 PM

Everything about this post is fantastic. I loved seeing your trip through your expert eye and your friendliness is so infectious it spills out to your readers. Just delicious!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 25, 2018 at 1:35 PM
  
  Coming FROM YOU a REAL HOLLYWOOD ACTRESS means the WORLD TO ME!
  MANY THANKS!!!
  XX
Heidi
· Reply

November 24, 2018 at 9:55 AM

Elizabeth, so fabulous, so wonderful! I feel like I was there with you! Thank you so much for sharing your adventures in shopping antique baubles, exploring palaces, and eating exquisite treats with those of us who are stuck at home!
(My mom had quite a few of those Christmas tree pins, I don’t know what happened to them. She wore them so well and I have always loved a lapel full of sparkly pins, wish I had them.)
Hope your Thanksgiving was very fine, and now it’s full steam ahead for Christmas and all the excitement that brings.
XO Heidi
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 25, 2018 at 1:39 PM
  
  Funny how things disappear and we do not recall HOW?!!
  Yes, the season is HERE…………..
  The SON has a TREE for us on his LAND up NORTH so this should be GREAT FUN!I’m going to shop by his PHOTOS!!!!!!TALL AND THIN is my DEMAND!AS we have THAT piggy who loves to cut through to his bed where the TREE STANDS TALL!!!!!Needless, to say tree is anchored UP TOP and BELOW!!!!!
  HAPPY HOLIDAYS…………I haven’t forgotten your painting!!!I have a frame but I need to give it a GOOD CLEAN!Than get GLASS for it…………THAT is the HOLD UP!!!
  XOXO
  - Heidi
    · Reply
    
    November 30, 2018 at 8:25 PM
    
    I can’t wait to see how you frame it. I know it will be fabulous!
    Xo Heidi
Victoria Thorp
· Reply

November 24, 2018 at 9:37 AM

I loved following you on your trip to England. I could not have left that little florentine table behind.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 24, 2018 at 9:54 AM
  
  YOU DID IT!!!!!!
  I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!!!!!!!
  Now each time you comment and use the same name it should APPEAR so YOU can SEE IT!
  GLAD YOU AGREE but it was NO BARGIN!!!!!
  YOU and I are the BARGIN SHOPPERS EXTORDIAIRE!!!!!!!!!!
  XX
Shawnee Gallagher
· Reply

November 23, 2018 at 3:16 PM

Oh you great big beautiful Doll you !!! Loved everything about this post and must say ditto to all the comments before me!!
Just read on IG that Marilyn Monroe said “it’s not about money,,,,, it’s about SHOPPING!!! Amen !! LOL. once again you took us on an enlightening journey and it feels like I met those unchatty folks on the plane ,,, bought treasures,,,, met friends ( have followed Vicki Archer for years) ,,, toured the gardens,,,, Drank tea,,,, went thrifting with you and Nick ( love his posts)
I actually have a thyme garden designed from High grove ((**)) such a wonderful way to spend the morning after Thanksgving overload. YOU are the BALM !!! Xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 24, 2018 at 9:26 AM
  
  I NEED TO SEE A PHOTO of YOUR THYME GARDEN!I tried to grow THYME in between my pavers but it didNOT take!DO YOU have the book on HIGHGROVE?I need to re-read THAT now that I have been there.
  HAPPY TO TAKE YOU ALONG ON THE TRIP!
  THE MORE THE MERRIER!
  I laughed SO HARD about ME being THE BALM!!!!!!!THANK YOU!!!!
  XOXO
  - Shawnee Gallagher
    · Reply
    
    November 24, 2018 at 6:30 PM
    
    No I don’t have the book ….sounds like I should get it though !!
    Will find that pic of the Thyme gardens for you asap..
    LOL glad I made you laugh….. yeppers….you ARE !! the BALM !!! XO
DA Squires
· Reply

November 23, 2018 at 7:43 AM

I am thankful for you on this Thanksgiving holiday weekend… adore your musings, photo diaries, sense of humor, shopper’s eye, eye for detail (deciding it must be a chicken with leg coverings..)… THE TABLE IN A HANDBAG (WHO DOES NOT NEED ONE?!!), old world Christmas pins, turbans from where else, RUSSIA (Dr. Zhivago-esque YOU are)…somehow I wish all your expeditions could be filmed as a travelogue w/ you narrating and shown in movie theaters like the used before the movie… Travels With The Contessa : ) People would go to the movies (which are usually a huge disappointment) just to see YOU!!! XOXO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 24, 2018 at 9:22 AM
  
  WE ALL NEED A TABLE IN OUR HANDBAGS!This little table has found a HOME on my KITCHEN TABLE!
  HA!AND I am THANKFUL of YOU in MY COMMENT SECTION!YOU always BRING A SMILE if NOT a HYSTERICAL LAUGH of FUN TO ME!!!
  THANK YOU for GETTING ME!
  I DO ENJOY writing these CAPTIONS for my PHOTOS………..
  Brings JOY and a DIARY of SORTS for MY LIFE!
  XOXO
Lillian Plummer
· Reply

November 23, 2018 at 12:02 AM

What an interesting post on all things beautiful. You certainly have lots of friends all over the world, and a small world in fact, fancy knowing the people seated next to you on the plane.
I love that you are a shopper, I am suspicious of people who do not shop and have a passion for bling.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 23, 2018 at 7:17 AM
  
  YES, I am a SHOPPER……………..have been MY WHOLE LIFE!
  WE would have a BALL TOGETHER!
  XX
JoAnn Hartley
· Reply

November 22, 2018 at 7:42 PM

I’m afraid I’m going to dream about those earrings tonight. Hope you Thanksgiving was wonderful. Say hi to Giampiero for me
Xo, JoAnn
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 23, 2018 at 7:15 AM
  
  OH MY GOODNESS…………….HOW ARE THE?
  TIME FOR A CATCH UP!!!
  XX
Lady Benton
· Reply

November 22, 2018 at 4:19 PM

You crack me up! Aren’t your kitchen walls already covered every inch???
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 23, 2018 at 7:14 AM
  
  NOPE!
  WE CAN SCOOT and ADJUST TO ADD MORE!!!!!!!!!
  MORE is MORE in our VERNACULAR!!!!
  Plus, I LIVE IN THE KITCHEN!!!
  NEED SOME OLD SOULS TO TALK TOO!
  XX
anitapelayorivera
· Reply

November 22, 2018 at 4:44 AM

Dearest Contessa, HELLO! What a copious and delicious curation of experiences you post here; it’s hard to get through all of it! But one thing is for sure, your adventures are dreams to aspire to. Thank you for taking the time to visit my humble and very minimalist blog! Happy Thanksgiving my dear!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 23, 2018 at 7:13 AM
  
  I DO BELIEVE THIS WAS THE LONGEST POST EVER!!!!!!!
  YOUR BLOG is PERFECTION!
  XX
Penelope
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 4:05 PM

What a delightful series this has been! Lots of my favorite things: gardens, art, flowers, tea, antiquities, friendships, fashion moments and those gorgeous jewels! Your eye for beauty is impeccable and you radiate joy throughout.
Thanks for taking us readers along. Happy Rainy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 22, 2018 at 4:24 AM
  
  TO YOU TOO PENELOPE!
  SENDING THANKS GIVING GREETINGS ACROSS THE San Rafael BRIDGE!!!!!
  XX
lisa thomson
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 3:37 PM

Oh, my!! The jewelry! The high tea! The Flea markets and Kensington palace…the art! The finery. Contessa, thank you so much for sharing all of these amazing photos and stories. Your little table! I just about died laughing. The couple on the plane…you’re too funny. He didn’t want to talk? Obviously, he did NOT know who he was sitting next to!!!
I’ll be back for Vicki Archer’s style post. She is beautiful, too like all of these ladies you were traveling with.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 22, 2018 at 4:22 AM
  
  NO, HE didNOT want to CHIT CHAT!!!They had had a LONG MORNING.I think they started in FLORENCE to catch a plane to London………….I GOT IT!But I was CHATTY!!!!!
  Not the NORM FOR ME!!!!!
  HE HAD NO IDEA HE WAS SITTING NEXT TO LA CONTESSA!!!Honestly, if they make these planes any smaller I have to STOP FLYING!Decided there should be a section FOR TALL PEOPLE I DID!
  HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!
  XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 22, 2018 at 4:23 AM
  
  OPPS YOU ARE IN CANADA!!!
  YOU have had your THANKS GIVING ALREADY!!!!!!
  SEIZE THE DAY!!!
  XX
Sheila-Merle Johnson
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 1:34 PM

What a creative and interesting post! I feel immersed in the beautiful and ageless world of London. I LOVE the Christmas pins! I may just go to London for that. Do they have them year round? I have already bought some wrist warmers from Catherine’s site. So thoughtful to create something like that for we petites who get cold with bracelet length sleeves. You bring so much into my life. THANK YOU!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 2:41 PM
  
  CHRISTMAS PINS were OUT IN EARLY SEPTEMBER SO IMAGINE they stay OUT ALL YEAR LONG!GO ON ETSY they are there…………!!!!!!!
  THRILLED YOU FOUND A GOODIE!
  I HAVE THOSE TOO NEED TO PULL THEM OUT as we have cold weather and RAIN!
  YOU will LOVE THEM………last year I kept them in my car!SO they were always HANDY!
  HAPPY -THRILLED I can ADD SOME SPARKLE!
  XX
Loree
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 1:19 PM

My goodness, you seem to know everyone in the blogging world. I can’t believe how many people you were able to meet. I also cannot imagine how you got all that stuff in your hand luggage. Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy it. We will celebrate on Saturday. Nothing big this year . Work has worn me out and I’m looking forward to some rest at Christmas.
BTW, I haven’t heard from your blogger friend that had the problems with comments yet.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 2:46 PM
  
  She may NOT have contacted YOU…………..
  SEE if you can comment I”M beginning to think it’s ME!
  Her blog is called HOME and she resides in ENGLAND TOO!Or maybe she FIXED IT!YOU are the second name I gave her AFTER PIPISTRELLO!Who YOU HELPED MAKE IT WORK!!!!
  ALSO sending so you and they can find MORE BLOGS that I think would be of INTEREST to ALL OF YOU!GO COMMENT and let me know if you succeeded!Her name is JACQUELINE…….gorgeous woman who loves to GARDEN!
  HAPPY TURKEY DAY!IS it easy to find TURKEY’s on MALTA?
  XX
Pipistrello
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 12:53 PM

Ciao Contessa!

Another action packed account of some of London’s glories!! I’ve never been to Kensington Palace, despite having lived there for a couple of years in my Youth, so must fix that. Portobello Road, however, is another story. Your friends have certainly shown you a Good Time!! Nick must have been charmed by your placement of the portrait on your turban – and his shirt was fantastic, channelling Mr Darcy. The jewellery shop would have paralysed me in my tracks with its abundance of shiny things but your choices are glorious, especially the cabochon rubies in the white tree. I’d never known about Xmas tree brooches, unbelievably, so another Essential Thing I’ve learned from your blog, nor the Necessity of the portable Florentine table. Something to keep an eye out for, too.

You evidently had a grand time squeezing in so many of your friends as well!! What a trip!!

Baci xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 2:50 PM
  
  THEY HAVE TO BE GRANDE per me!!!HAI CAPITO???
  THE tree pins have to be OVERSIZED………..the red one was borderline for me but I loved the color and glow…………it resides on a yellow coat at THE MOMENT and will probably stay THERE for the rest of the YEAR!
  ONE needs FLORENTINE TAVOLA if one is in BUSY SPOT where there are ZERO TABLES for WATER BOTTLES!!!!!!IT WAS JUST PERFECT instead I would have been holding it between my legs!!!!!!!THOSE DAYS ARE LONG GONE!!!!!!
  XX
Karen Persson
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 11:28 AM

Wow, so many amazing photos! So interesting and exciting! I can see that you totally were enthralled with your trip to the UK. You’re so talented with photography and with writing! You know how to bring out extra joy in life!

Btw, were these photos mostly taken with your iPhone or with a camera?

Keep it up! Btw, hope you’re getting enough rest!

Love,

Karenxxoox
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 12:30 PM
  
  IPHONE from last CHRISTMAS I think it’s the TEN.NOT ON PORTRAIT MODE as that makes the photos smaller………….RIGHT?!!!APPLE GAL!!!
  SLEEPING BETTER NOW…………THANKS!!!
  XX
  - Karen Persson
    · Reply
    
    December 11, 2018 at 1:15 PM
    
    I didn’t see this response so I guess the latest post also has iPhone X photos! I have the iPhone Xs and I love it! The portrait mode is definitely really only for portraits!
    
    I have great memories of our meet last May!
    
    Love,
    
    Karenxoxo
Never Mind Donna
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 11:11 AM

I want to win the lottery and take you traveling!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 12:28 PM
  
  IT’s A PLAN!!!!!!
  XO
Kim
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 9:39 AM

I love this post. I do follow your portrait friend on Instagram too. You’re so lucky to go to Portobello Road and all that cool stuff with him. I also just did that whole thing at Kensington Palace. Was going to write about it but never got around to it takes so much time. Did you see the Diana exhibit? I hope you did. Glad your table made it back what a treasure I can’t wait to get your card. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Maybe we can do a girls lunch up at Neimans before Christmas?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 12:27 PM
  
  I DID AND CAN DO A POST JUST ON THE DIANA DRESSES!
  YES YES YES!!!!!!!GET ME INTO THAT CITY!!!!!!!!
  I WOULD LOVE THAT!
  XX
Leslie Lord
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 8:38 AM

Oh my so much news of your fun trip gathered together here and fabulous photos!
Thank you!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:21 AM
  
  WELCOME HUMBLE BUNGALOW……….WELCOME!
  XX
Ms. Mary
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 7:58 AM

You have done it again! What a great post. Filled to the brim with fun details, pretty pictures, intersting blog friends, and your supreme joyful attitude. I love, love, LOVE that you seek out and make the meet-ups happen! Brava to you!

Hubby and I a shuffling off to Buffalo for the holiday- both of my little doves are flying in to be with my MIL on her birthday. Can’t wait to see them.

Love to you, G, and the whole meanagerie. <3
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:20 AM
  
  WONDERFUL!
  BUNDLE UP I HEAR BUFFALO IS COLD!!!!!!
  HELLO TO JILL!!!!!!
  XX
Nick
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 7:54 AM

Thank you for this wonderful post and your friendship, what happy memories were made!

I know I nearly walked your legs off, but your smile kept beaming even when you caused QUITE a stir amongst the stall holders at Portobello! We ONLY scratched the surface there btw;)

Did I tell you I bought a silver wine bottle holder..channeling you , clearly!

Until the next trip HERE or THERE..in chilly Londontown raising a glass to our Goddess and Contessa.

X
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:19 AM
  
  NO!
  I don’t think YOU DID tell me THAT NEWS!!!!!!
  VINO in a silver vessel is ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA!
  
  YOU Must come WEST………let’s line up some ANTIQUE SHOWS for you to STALK up and down the COAST!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Kathy L
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 7:00 AM

Thank you for sharing your fabulous across-the-pond adventures with us! So many great people, places and treasures waiting to be discovered. And you traveled by yourself – wow!
Happy Thanksgiving!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:14 AM
  
  I DID and HAVE DONE!However, I have people lined up to meet so it’s NOT REALLY BY MYSELF!!!
  I like shopping by myself!ALTHOUGH,in a few cases I can have people with me but I go at such a pace and am NOT WISHY WASHY about decisions so I’m usually OUT THE DOOR before the person has seen the shop!Remember this was MY WORK for 12 years…………..
  NICK and I Move at THE SAME PACE!!!!!!
  XX
Debra @ 5th and State
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 6:59 AM

Dearest Contessa
I should have left for work then saw your NEW POST, I stayed and happy to start my day with such wonderment. Nick is wearing a POET shirt?!!!? love a man in such finery, and Anton’s cravat!

I will never see those Kensington gates without thinking of Diana. I was there with the mound of flowers, in person it was startling, there were even flowers hanging from the nearby trees. loved your tour of the palace. there is such goodness in all of images and your stories are priceless.
now, off to work!!
Debra
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:10 AM
  
  IT IS YOUR BUSY TIME!!!!!!
  REMEMBER TO STOP AND BREATH!!!!!!
  WHAT A MEMORY YOU HAVE.What has it been like 21 years ago?I can remember what I was doing where I was standing as if it were YESTERDAY!JUST DIDNOT WANT TO BELIEVE IT!
  Kept saying to myself its all a mistake she will LIVE!!!!!!
  SOMEONE will WAKE HER UP!!!!!
  XOXO
Chicatanyage
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 6:41 AM

Great post. Thank you for including me. You were certainly busy while you were in London. It is years since I have been to Portabello Market, I used to love it must go again. Glad you were able to pick up some treasures to add to your collection.
Luisa (hushhushhandmade)
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 6:13 AM

Such beautiful things Elizabeth!
Lots of love
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:06 AM
  
  HAPPY YOU ENJOYED!!!
  OUR KIND OF JEWELS………..XX
Lisa the Sequinist
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 5:24 AM

Oh my goodness, what a joy to read all of this. AND! For the record, I do not think the silver turban is too much for you; you totally carried it off.

I fell in love with your Christmas tree pins, especially the one with small clear star shapes and red cabochon centres, by Cristobal. I want! You were right to take all of those home. I’m so pleased you have lots of good momentos from your trip. COME BACK SOON! We have lots more gluten free places, hahaha! Love to you… OH, is it too late to get a Banksy and Elizabeth card?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:05 AM
  
  NOT FOR YOU!!!!!!!!
  Send me your snail Mail and I will PREPARE in the next couple of DAYS!
  REALLY by CRISTOBAL!!!!!!!
  I have started wearing them as I have TOO MANY to wear ALL AT ONCE!!!
  Of course I have VISIONS of a COAT SMOTHERED IN THEM!!!!!!
  But where does ONE GO these days TO WEAR THAT?
  MY STANDARD ANSWER………..SAFEWAY!
  XX
Parnassus
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 2:14 AM

Hello Contessa, London is a dangerous place–not necessarily in terms of safety, but for those whose money burns a hole in their pocket. I also picked up some interesting souvenirs on Portobello Road, and like you, it make a challenge of getting on the airplane. (Our individual purchases may have been different, although there definitely is some overlap!) My real London Waterloo however is Bond Street, whose galleries can be tempting beyond all human endurance!
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 9:02 AM
  
  I HAVE NEVER BEEN ON BOND STREET!!!!!!!!
  PERHAPS, that is a GOOD THING!
  I have your snail mail address……Card will GO out this week!
  Isn’t it WONDERFUL that at OUR AGE THINGS STILL SPEAK TO US!!!?
  I HOPE I NEVER LOSE THAT SPARK!
  XX
Hilda Smith
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 2:08 AM

What a time you had and I love your pics. Thanks for sharing all your wonderful experiences and treasures. You also met some incredible people..but of course you are so warm and gorgeous, who could resist you x
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:30 AM
  
  TO KIND!
  There are actually a FEW who can resist ME!
  Next TRIP I will MEET YOU and IRELAND will NEVER BE THE SAME!!!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Sue Chandler
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 1:54 AM

Wow Contessa fabulous photos! It really was a trip filled with colour and glamour. Lovely to finally meet you xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:27 AM
  
  DITTO!
  I LOVED EVERY MOMENT OF OUR VISIT!
  XX
Edith
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 1:50 AM

dear Contessa, as I am from Austria (Mozart / Vienna you know 😉 my English is not good enough to verbalize which pleasure your report is to me … I remember Portobello Road very well, also Kensington Palace but couldn’t describe my impressions in your formidable way … just gorgeous … THANK YOU THANK YOU for your wonderful Posts which are all very interesting, expressivc, warmhearted and filled with surprises and wows and ohs and ahas … love every word you write, every foto you present … thank you … you made my day … XOX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:27 AM
  
  YOUR ENGLISH is GRAND!
  Remember I live with an ITALIAN and he still comes up with ODD SAYINGS!WHICH I LOVE!
  When we first met HORSE BACK RIDING he called BACK HORSE RIDING!!!
  Please doNOT worry about your ENGLISH or SPELLING!I can ALWAYS correct it for YOU here!It PLEASES ME NO END YOU ENJOYED MY POST!
  HELLO TO VIENNA!!!!!Been there ONCE and can still see THAT COFFEE HOUSE on the corner!!!!!With all the WOOD PANELING!!!!!!!
  I was 17 years old!
  XOXO
Catherine
· Reply

November 21, 2018 at 1:50 AM

What a fabulous trip you had Contessa; so many memories for you.
Sue and I were thrilled to whisk you off for supper and catch up with all your news.
Thank you so much for mentioning us and of course, our cashmere!
Much Love xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:22 AM
  
  THANK YOU!
  HAPPY HOLIDAYS and KEEP ON KEEPING US WARM in YOUR CREATIONS!!!
  HAVE A WONDERFUL SEASON!
  XX
Taste of France
· Reply

November 20, 2018 at 11:17 PM

Your posts are so packed with surprises. Like a beautiful present with a bow and then inside there are more beautiful presents. The jewelry, the interiors, the workmanship of the clothing, the fabulously glamorous shots of you, the amazing stories.
I LOVE your table–it’s more beautiful than I had imagined.
Thank you for bringing sparkle into my day!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:19 AM
  
  I sent your POST about the couple touring on a moped to a Friend in AUSTRALIA!!I think she speaks FRENCH and LISTENS to PODCASTS!I think their idea of honeymooning through FRANCE on a MOPED/SCOOTER is AMAZING!!!!!
  MERCI…….AMericana in FRANCIA!YOU are SO KIND with your words……………
  I had a GREAT time putting this POST together!Which put me behind in the TURKEY prep DEPARTMENT!!!!!!!
  HUGS,
  XX
ellie's friend from Canada
· Reply

November 20, 2018 at 8:19 PM

great blog posting. I love the table and the earrings. Prayers for the victims of the fires.
Are you having a big thanksgiving dinner? I hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:14 AM
  
  NO, just SIX of us……..as one son told his FATHER to ADD another place setting!VERY LOW KEY this YEAR!THE ITALIAN does the TURKEY in the PIZZA OVEN and he made his dough last NIGHT so he will bake FRESH ARTISAN BREAD in the MORNING!I”m cooking from ELLIE’s THANKS GIVING DAY BOOK and have started THE DRESSING with HOTDOG BUNS!!!!!IT’s a two day if NOT three day process.
  IT WILL BE HAPPY I PROMISE!
  XX
Lisa White
· Reply

November 20, 2018 at 5:25 PM

Starting with the earrings…I cannot resist them! I do not know how you only managed to purchase one pair….the green and pink pair…had me swooning. Then the Christmas pins. What a selection! I understand how a few found their way into the bag with the little FLORENTINE TABLE in it. That had me in stitches. I could see myself going about with a table in my bag! GORGEOUS PIECE and you it will fit beautifully in your Enchanted Home and Garden. Portobello Road seems like heaven on earth. I could browse in there for days. Of course, refreshing yourself at a High Tea with friends from Cyberspace who landed next to you…more memories to cherish! I loved the Meringue Crown of a Turban you had on that day. Kensington Palace is so full of history. I look at those wide dresses and understand why French Doors were invented. The detailed stitching in gold and silver threads…how lavish. I love these adventures you have…even traveling home had a story unfold around it. We have been watching the devastation of the “Camp Fire” and the horrific losses, there. Then the Wholsey Fire in Malibu…horrific. My thoughts and prayers are with the people who have been lost or have suffered through this nightmare. On a lighter note, I wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 21, 2018 at 8:11 AM
  
  IT’s RAINING TODAY which is a GOOD THING for those fires!It’s been 49 DAYS since a RAINDROP fell from the SKY here in Northern California.I don’t think WE could get YOU out of the FIRST SHOP………..it’s a TREASURE TROVE of OUR KIND of STUFF!I even met ANOTHER ITALIAN in that shop!She was the one opening cases for me!IT was MY HAPPY PLACE for SURE!
  HAPPY TURKEY DAY TO YOU!YOU always MAKE ME SMILE if NOT LAUGH OUT LOUD!
  XX