TODAY IS THE DAY!

July 7, 2021 75 Comments

HELLO LOVELY READERS……………HOW IS YOUR SUMMER GOING?

THE WEATHER HERE IN CALIFORNIA HAS BEEN CHILLY AND OVERCAST!

NOT WHAT I WOULD CALL SUMMER WEATHER….

WE have celebrated 35 years of marriage!

HARD TO BELIEVE………

THE DRESS was the only wedding planning I got to do with my MOTHER and I do recall it cost a FORTUNE!

The ITALIAN’s suit was made by GUCCI and was transferred up from the ROME store…………needless to say the pants were the WRONG SIZE and the correct size arrived by courier a couple hours before the wedding!

THE WEDDING WAS AT 11 AM!

HE CAN STILL WEAR THIS SUIT TODAY!

YES,THAT WOULD BE THE DUOMO IN THE BACKGROUND!

Who can tell me who built THAT DUOMO?

DO you know his slippers are in the basement of the DUOMO under GLASS?!

My shoes were made by GUCCI for me as a wedding present!

SO ONE OF A KIND!

(I KNOW A VERY LUCKY BRIDE!)

We have seen the GRANDCHILD TWICE IN ONE MONTH!

AND TODAY I GO TO SEE THE LUNG DOCTOR!

ALL INCREDIBLY EXCITING I KNOW!

THIS PAST MONTH I OPENED FLOWER MAGAZINE TO SEE MY CARD I HAD SENT TO A DECORATOR IN DALLAS

…….tucked in her FOYER MIRROR!

TALK ABOUT A THRILL!

CAN YOU FIND ME?

There I am in one of ADVANCED STYLE PHOTOS I HAD MADE INTO NOTECARDS!

(TOP RIGHT MIRROR LOOK FOR THE WOMAN IN RED!)

YOUR CONTESSA and BANKSY.

Michelle Nussbaumer and I have a few things in common!

COLORFUL WALLS,ANIMAL LOVERS,ROME,ANTIQUES and both married Europeans!

I hope to meet her one day!

SHE IS HIGH ON MY BUCKET LIST!

TALK ABOUT ANOTHER THRILL to LOOK FORWARD TOO!

I also receive HOME & ANTIQUES from ENGLAND and when I saw the photo of these shoes I jumped for JOY!

THAT BRAIDING REMINDS ME OF FRENCH PASSEMENTERIE.

They sold for 32,000 POUNDS which equals $42,000.00 DOLLARS!

Someone should start making MONOGRAMED SHOES LIKE THIS AGAIN!

For that someone who has EVERYTHING!

BIRDIES does a good velvet flat which I live in from Gardening to House Slippers to LIVING IN, but to ADD A BEAUTIFUL MONOGRAM especially for the HOLIDAYS would just be the ICING ON THE CAKE!

MAYBE SOMEONE AT BIRDIES READS ME AND WILL FOLLOW THROUGH with my thoughts here!

I WOULD BUY EVERY COLOR!

DONE DEAL!

JUST THINK THEY COULD CALL The slippers CONTESSA!!!

GAAAWD I WOULD LOVE THAT!

I WOULD WEAR THE REST OF MY LIFE!

INSIDE AND OUTSIDE AND EVEN TO THE GROCERY STORE!

SPEAKING of CAKE I have a BIRTHDAY coming up!

JULY 22,I WILL BE 61 years old!

ABSOLUTELY NO PLANS AGAIN THIS YEAR………….I guess its time to wind down the festivities!

THAT’s OKAY as I have NO ENERGY TO ENTERTAIN OR GO OUT!

This photo is from last year where I sat in my GARDEN and received a FEW FRIENDS who dropped by!

How can I TOP this OUTFIT?!!!

We all will have to wait and SEE what I come up with as JEANS willNOT CUT IT!

It’s a SMALL WORLD AGAIN!

I READ A LITTLE BOOK IN A DAY CALLED HOW Y’ALL DOING? BY Leslie Jordan!

He is HYSTERICAL and has a WONDERFUL INSTAGRAM………HIS FAME CAME FROM INSTAGRAM DURNG THE PANDEMIC AS HE WAS STUCK AT HOME IN TENNESSEE WITH HIS FAMILY!”BORED OUT OF HIS MIND”, I THINK ARE HIS WORDS!SO HE STARTING TALKING TO HIS PHONE!I remember I found him when he was doing his “PILLOW TALK” series!

THE MAN HAS A FOLLOWING OF 5.6 MILLION PEOPLE FOLLOWING HIM NOW!

He is 4 foot 11 inches tall and is 66 years old!

You may remember him from WILL and GRACE?

THE BOOK IS A GREAT READ.Full of HIS LIFE STORIES! I FEEL I SHOULD GIVE IT OUT FOR GIFTS!

To Buy HIS BOOK CLICK RIGHT HERE!

SO, I know another lady who was an AGELESS STYLE VICTIM for me years back who lives in TENNESSEE.

I sent her a text saying are you FOLLOWING HIM HE IS SO FUN!

SHE SENT THIS BACK TO ME VIA TEXT!

Seems LESLIE was in that movie THE HELP and BRENDA (far left) drove down to Mississippi to see him on set!

TALK ABOUT ANOTHER THRILL!

THEY ARE REAL LIFE FRIENDS!

Just goes to show YOU NEVER know who your FRIENDS ARE and what STORIES they have to SHARE unless YOU ASK!

BE WELL…………..MAKE JOY DAILY……….and THANKS FOR READING MY SCRIBBLES HERE!

YOU ALL GIVE ME PURPOSE and A REASON TO SMILE!

P.S.BETTY is NOW 31 POUNDS!

XXX

75 Comments

Leave your reply.

Marleah Krohne
· Reply

August 2, 2021 at 8:34 AM

Happy anniversary, wonderful.
Such a lovely wedding.
I’m ready for slippers to make their reappearance.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  August 2, 2021 at 10:04 AM
  
  BIRDIES IS THE AFFORDABLE WAY TO GO!!
  DO YOU KNOW OF THEM?
  XX
Janice
· Reply

July 27, 2021 at 2:56 PM

Oh My gosh 35 years with same man? LOL I sound awful LOL can’t imagine that, Didn’t happen for me.
Oh My gosh all that money for Churchill’s slippers, I have pair similar with gold braiding I’ll sell much cheaper LOL.
Love your grandbaby girl
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 28, 2021 at 8:10 AM
  
  WHAT SIZE!
  I’m an 8.5!!!!
  THANK YOU SO MUCH!
  XX
Jacqueline
· Reply

July 21, 2021 at 10:45 PM

Happy, happy anniversary to you both and happy birthday to you today Elizabeth. You looked beautiful on your wedding day and the Italian, so handsome ….. what a lovely couple you make. I think we are having some of your weather …. So hot I can’t do much ( broken elbow doesn’t help either !!!!! ) Wishing you the best day today. XXXX
Ellie's friend
· Reply

July 20, 2021 at 5:42 PM

Alas, somehow I missed this post! And someone else knew Brunelleschi built the duomo. Did you know he started out as a jeweller or goldsmith? There is a wonderful book about him called Brunelleschi’s Dome. THE Italian would really like it, I think, as it describes the construction processes in detail. Available in paperbook. If I could find my copy I’d send it to you. I love the birdie shoes!

Hot here and incredibly smoky.
Dawn Darveau
· Reply

July 14, 2021 at 5:42 AM

As always love your blog. Congratulations to you both 35 years amazing. Betty is beautiful and is another reason you have to get up in the morning as well as your Italian! I hope your upcoming birthday is wonderful as you are so well loved at home and around the world. Hope you get some answers from your lung doctor.
juliej
· Reply

July 13, 2021 at 5:45 PM

Happy Anniversary! A gorgeous couple at the perfect venue. I remember it well. XOXO
If you haven’t seen this website, it is a must for monogrammed slippers. Extremely comfortable and excellent quality.
Stubbs and Wootton https://stubbsandwootton.com/search?q=monogrammed+slippers&type=product
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 14, 2021 at 6:29 AM
  
  THANK YOU YES I KNOW THIS BRAND IT IS A TAD EXPENSIVE I BELIEVE.I AM THE PROUD OWNER OF ONE PAIR!WHICH I NEVER WEAR…….as the comfort wasNOT THERE!!MAYBE I NEED TO WEAR MORE OFTEN!??
  SO NICE TO TALK AND CATCH UP ON YOUR MOM!!
  XXX
Jill James
· Reply

July 13, 2021 at 3:11 AM

Late again , apologies Contessa. Happy Anniversary to you both. Your wedding sounds wonderful and oh so glamorous (no surprise there).
So pleased you were able to spend time with your little one , my she is a cutie.
I sincerely hope the lung doctor appointment went well and provided some answers. Thank you for another entertaining post.
Stephanie
· Reply

July 12, 2021 at 6:00 PM

Finally sitting down to read your “scribblings”!
I never tire of your interesting memories and clever ideas…like the Birdies. Genius! They should hire you as a consultant!!
Happy Anniversary to you and G…wishing you many more years of love, happiness and good health.
Love,
Stephanie
aka
Tendrheart4
Sheila from the luncheon.
· Reply

July 11, 2021 at 9:51 PM

What beautiful wedding pictures. Your wedding was memorable I’m sure. Happy anniversary and Happy birthday, you are truly blessed with a great spouse and family.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 12, 2021 at 8:12 AM
  
  THANKS SHELIA I’m a lucky GAL for sure!
  XXX
Brenda Welch
· Reply

July 11, 2021 at 2:47 PM

Happy Anniversary!!! Loove all the pics with your cute granbaby…..Oooh she is so CUTE!!!
Love that your postcard is on Michelle Nussbaumer mirror….what an EYE you have & I love her Style!
Leslie is a HOOT & spending time with him on the set of THE HELP was beyond fabulous….I met Him through my dear friend Charles Faudree & the 2 of them were very close & they both had a wicked sense of humor!
Sending Hugs & Love from Memphis….Hopefully one Day SOON we can meet each other!!!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 12, 2021 at 8:15 AM
  
  I WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU!!!
  YES ONE DAY SOON!!
  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!
  XXX
Juliet
· Reply

July 11, 2021 at 9:49 AM

Contessa! Whew … I finally made it over! Congrats, again, on your wedding anniversary. I love every chance I get to see your stunning gown. Sweet little Lottie twice in a month?! Your grand baby cup runneth over … she’s adorable and no doubt soaking in the fabulousness of her grandmama. I believe Brunelleschi built (or designed) the Duomo? Am I right … are his slippers encased in glass? I didn’t look at all the comments … so I don’t know. I spotted your card right away … now I’m off to Flower magazine to find the spread. So exciting. Little Miss Betty is getting to be a big girl … perhaps Banksy will take a kinder view when they a re more equal in size. 🙂 xo
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 12, 2021 at 8:17 AM
  
  YES!
  YOU ARE SPOT ON!
  YES HIS SLIPPERS ARE UNDER GLASS AND THEY ARE TINY!!!!
  LETS HOPE SO!
  XXX
D. A. Squires
· Reply

July 10, 2021 at 8:56 AM

So lovely!!! I always need to reread your posts… they are packed so full!! Always learn something and always smile : ) I don’t know who is cuter, Miss Betty or Miss Charlotte… tooo adorable. YES to monogrammed slippers, a children’s book, etc. so many things To DO under the umbrella brand of ‘The Vintage Contessa’ (maybe umbrellas, too…with artistic renderings of Banksy, Miss Betty AND flowers) You need a workshop-studio with elves to make the creations… I can IMAGINE it. XOXO
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 12, 2021 at 8:18 AM
  
  YES A WORKSHOP WOULD BE GOOD!
  LOVE TO YOU AND THE DUCKLING FAMILY!!
  XOXO
kim
· Reply

July 10, 2021 at 12:24 AM

This was a lovely post and I am sorry I am so late to it. Always love seeing the wedding photos!!! Stunning. So happy you are spending time with your granddaughter! Yay. That’s so neat about Michelle having your card. I do too.I can see how you’d be great friends. Betty is going to be a big girl! xoxo
maywyn
· Reply

July 9, 2021 at 5:52 PM

Happy Anniversary!
You both look fantastic, then and now.
Dion Home
· Reply

July 9, 2021 at 12:37 PM

Ma Chere Contessa,
Happy Anniversary!
I loved the wedding pics..so divinely romantic and I know it’s real!
You and your Italian are a lovely story that we all get to enjoy. I hope the lung doctor visit goes well. Life is what you make it. …another enjoyable post.
PPP
Barbara Spain
· Reply

July 9, 2021 at 8:24 AM

Wishing you and the Italian, a very happy anniversary! What a beautiful family life you have created together!
I enjoyed seeing your wedding photo! Such an elegant pair you make! Here’s to many more happy years together! xoxo
Hilda Smith
· Reply

July 9, 2021 at 12:22 AM

Happy Anniversary to you both. Graham and I will be 39 years married on the 23rd of July. What beautiful photos you have of your wedding. I hope that the lung doctor has some good news today/yesterday?
Getting older certainly has its challenges but we shall overcome!
How cute is your granddaughter..a little beauty. Does she like Betty?
Take care lovely Contessa. Sending you positive vibes from Ireland and hugs.
cindy
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 6:14 PM

Happy Anniversary I hope you two had fun with that darling baby. That pup needs his own instagram! I will give you a call tomorrow if you are around! Lot’s of craziness going on here!!
caroline walker
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 6:05 PM

As others have mentioned, Filippo Brunelleschi was the architect/engineer of The Duomo in Florence. A remarkably talented man well worth reading about. Yesterday I emailed a couple of friends who live out of the country, and who are followers of your blog. They want to know how it is that I have been talking about daytime temperatures in the 80;s here in L.A. and you are saying it is “chilly and overcast” where you are! I will have to remind them of the size of California! You certainly had a chic wedding. Such lovely photographs and beautiful memories. Congratulations on your Wedding Anniversary with many more to come.
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 9, 2021 at 7:58 AM
  
  HOW FUN THAT YOU ALL FOLLOW ME!I KNOW MOST PEOPLE DON’T GET IT THAT WE UP NORTH ARE A LOT OF DEGREES COOLER THAN YOU ARE DOWN SOUTH!
  IT WAS A LOVELY WEDDING…………and I have my MOTHER IN LAW to THANK FOR THAT as she coordinate it and found the FLOWER PEOPLE!AS WE WERE HERE IN THE STATES…………this was before the times you could fly to ITALY and get MARRIED!LOTS AND LOTS OF PAPERWORK HAD TO BE DONE AND THEY WANTED US BACK AGAIN BETWEEN DEC AND JULY WHICH WAS OUT OF THE QUESTION!WE BOTH WORKED!
  XXX
Jan Duda
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 5:27 PM

Darling Contessa — A Very Happy 35th Anniversary to you and your hubby. Isn’t it amazing how fast time passes happily with the right love of your life! I would love to send you a birthday card but alas, I see no snail mail addy on your website. By the by, I received a summer catalog (I seem to get them all) from Expressions (ExpressionsCatalog.com) and their buyers have found so many lovely caftans, which naturally gave me thoughts of you. There are a few that seem to be Lovely and Dramatic with Flair, much like YOU! — With Fond Regards, Jan Duda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:34 PM
  
  I GET EXPRESSIONS CATALOG but their CAFTANS are too short for me…………BUT THANKS FOR THINKING OF ME!!!
  I WILL EMAIL YOU MY ADDRESS………….PRONTO!!!
  MANY THANKS,XXX
Shireen
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 3:16 PM

Happy Anniversary and Congratulations on 35 years!!! 🙂
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:24 PM
  
  I HAVE BEEN THINKING ABOUT YOU LATELY……….ALL GOOD IN THE HOOD?
  THANK YOU!
  XXX
judith
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 2:37 PM

Happy Anniversary, Contessa! I enjoyed the pictures of you two together. You make an elegant couple, then and now. And how precious that you are getting to spend time with that darling baby! She is beautiful. I can see the Italian in her face. And I’m with Parnassus on this one, keep the baby! I didn’t realize that Leslie was an author, but it does not surprise me. I also was unaware that he is from my state of Tennessee. He was a great addition to Boston Legal as well as American Horror Story. You have eagle eyes to spot your card in the photo! Hope you are feeling fit as a fiddle and that your month has gotten off to a splendid start.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:24 PM
  
  THANK YOU!
  I RECEIVED YOUR DEVINE CORRESPONDENCE and will respond SOON!!
  HOW CAN I COMPETE WITH CARS DRIVING OFF WITH YOUR TRASH CAN!!!
  TOMORROW BETTY AND I HIT THE VET FOR THE FINAL PUPPY SHOTS………MAYBE I WILL HAVE A TALE TO TELL!
  XXX
Jo Floyd
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 1:20 PM

Another ‘Happy Blog’ and update from one of us who is suffering. Congratulations on your wedding anniversary , 35 years of amazing togetherness , laughter and tears, many more high points than low , what memories .
Thinking of you and your visit to the lung specialist , may all news be good news . Your health will rise again, many women have a big blip at this time , my mother, myself . Keep your inner zing you are doing well. Much love xxxxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:21 PM
  
  INNER ZING!
  I LIKE THAT!
  THANKS JOSEPHINE FOR THE CHEERLEADING SQUAD……..I DO NEED A PICK ME UP!
  XXXX
Penelope
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 1:08 PM

Happy Anniversary! Thank you for sharing delicious Lottie with us. You share a birthday with my littlest granddaughter, Isabella who will be turning one.
I hope this year brings restored health and energy for you. Thank you for all the joy, inspiration and beauty you bring us with every post.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:19 PM
  
  THANK YOU!
  YOU KNOW THE FUTURE KING OF ENGLAND HAS OUR BIRTHDAY TOO?LITTLE Prince George!
  REMEMBER BOBBY SHERMAN ………..he does too!
  I promise we will get together this summer!!
  XXX
Lorna
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 11:11 AM

Cute Batty and lovely Lottie. Happy anniversary to you and your handsome Italian. I always love hearing about your wedding.
That duomo in Florence!! I love it. It’s a masterpiece of the Renaissance. Brunelleschi was a wizard to get away with that feat.i
I hope your appointment with the lung doctor went well. We are all thinking of you Elizabeth. We need our Congress to feel well and to continue not entertain us.
Summer is hot and horrible here. It’s like there’s this some of heat stuck over our heads and it’s not nice. At least your weather sounds kinder.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:17 PM
  
  I AM SO SORRY YOU ARE SO MISERABLE…………..we NOW have a little heat wave TOO!
  YES, ALL GOOD WITH LUNG DOCTOR.He made me climb stairs and was very kind!I am just tired of not being up to SPEED!Each day is a CRAP SHOOT NOW……………
  THANK YOU FOR THINKING ABOUT ME!!!
  XOXO
elizabeth@pineconesandacorns
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 10:32 AM

Happy Anniversary Elizabeth! Tell us more about this beautiful dress! Where did you have it made? Italy?

As for the shoes, reach out to the company with your idea! Text them, tweet them, write them, Instagram them, etc. it is a fabulous idea.

As for Leslie I’ve been following him since before the pandemic and I love him, he is so funny. I cannot remember how I found him but at one time on Instagram he was promoting a children’s boo, I think it may have been about a squirrel, he said it was written by a friend and he showed a picture with a beautiful young lady. Then he said, you might know her mother, Ginger from Gilligans Island! So off I went to the young ladies blog and sure enough there she was with her mother and he children. II have the book on my bedside table to read this weekend.

I hope that you have a wonderful day, love seeing your sweet Betty!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:14 PM
  
  I ADORED GINGER but Mary Ann was so cute!!!!!!! GINGER was SO GLAMOROUS! SEND ME THE BLOG IF YOU CAN FIND IT!
  NO, NO DRESS WAS STORE BOUGHT……………at a Bridal Boutique.
  XXX
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 10:21 AM

Such fun photos of you and the Italian then and now! Congratulations! Fewer and fewer couples make it that long.Yes, please send word what the lung doctor said. I started to call you the other day, but I felt awful. I got take out fajitas from a place I haven’t been to in years, and it triggered one of my episodes. Today I’m just starting to feel good. I’m inclined to say it was something in their meat marinade or their homemade flour tortillas, but dang! It was awful. xoxox, Brenda
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 5:10 PM
  
  SO SORRY TO HEAR THAT BRENDA YOU HAVE DONE SO WELL RECENTLY!!!
  I will give you a call maybe tomorrow!
  XOX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

Author

July 8, 2021 at 9:36 AM

VIA EMAIL:

Good morning! Happy to see your beautiful granddaughter today! And you did not disappoint by not wearing a stylish hat in the photo. Happy Anniversary too….you young thing!

By the way…..how do I subscribe to HOME AND ANTIQUES? I do not want it on Kindle….I love real paper magazines? I need to read that article on Churchhill’s slippers!! If you have a subscription blank in your latest edition….would you mind putting it in my mailbox?? Oh thank you for this glorious information on this magazine!

As always, Lady Di
Dee Black
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 9:02 AM

Happy Anniversary “day” and love that you lead with your Italian, with memories still so vivid, followed by your beautiful granddaughter, new memories, new beginnings, with glimpses of your white flowers and other new family member “little” Betty. Updates on health, with ever present talk of fashion… so Contessa. Have a wonderful day and thanks for sharing the beauty.
lisa thomson
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 8:58 AM

Happy anniversary to you and the Italian! Your wedding photos are stunning! OMG, your dress!! So, did you already mention a secret to your enduring love? If not, please tell. I think you may have mentioned humor.
Betty is getting BIG. Oh, your grandbaby and you make quite the picture with your matching colors. So sweet. Good luck today at the doctor’s appointment. I do hope you’ll give us an update.
LOVED Will & Grace and Leslie is such a great addition to any sit com. I believe he has a part in Call Me Kat, a new show on network television. It stars the actress from The Big Bang Theory. Any-who. Looking forward to your next Ageless Style and how funny you ask that question and she is friends with him. All the connections!!
Mary Ann Pickett
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 8:01 AM

Beautiful hats, handsome Italian, darling baby, and puppy…all so much fun! I want to see your Gucci shoes in person! So cool!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 9:30 AM
  
  CLOSET WALK IN AND TURN AROUND AND LOOK UP!!
  ANYTIME………KEEP WAITING FOR YOU TO STOP BY!!
  XXX
Naila khan
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 7:33 AM

Hi My Lovely,

Reading your blog was a breathe of fresh air. Shoes made my Gucci just for you what can I say! No you definitely can not wear jeans, although by looking at your pictures and posts on Instagram I don’t think you would!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 7:38 AM
  
  I ONLY OWN ONE PAIR OF JEANS!
  I USE FOR GARDENING DAYS!!!
  WOULD YOU BELIEVE ME IF I SAID THEY ARE PROBABLY 22 years old?SOMEHOW, I MISSED THAT TREND COMPLETELY!!!SO WONDERFUL TO SEE YOU HERE AS WELL AS INSTAGRAM!!
  GRACIAS GRACIAS………..XXX
Libby
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 7:21 AM

Anniversaries and birthdays are very precious. Celebrate all, even in the privacy of your own home…or in your imagination. I try to recall each anniversary. Afraid I have let a few slip by in my memory, but there were some fond moments. We celebrated 55 years last week. I fixed lobster. “Back in the day”, we always went to a high end restaurant. Enjoyed, but loved this one just as much. One that stands out was number Three. We lived in Coronado at the time and splurged by going to Hotel Del Coronado for dinner. We have been back there a number of times since, but that was the most special.

Your dear Betty is growing very fast. I miss our Gibson so much. Gone a year. You are brave to get a puppy. At least, you won’t trip over her.
That Italian you married is still pretty cute! Enjoy and celebrate your life.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 7:27 AM
  
  OH THAT HOTEL DEL……..was something!
  I was at a BALL THERE ONCE UPON A TIME!!!
  CIRCA 1976
  YOU know that shop I talk about frequently CHATEAU BEL AGE in San Diego ?Well, VALERIE grew up in that hotel!
  I keep wanting her to write a book about that!!!
  HAPPY ANNIVERSARY LIBBY AND THANK YOU!
  XXX
Angelyn
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 6:55 AM

Happy Anniversary! I do hope your appointment with your pulmonologist is good! If I had custom made Gucci shoes, I do believe that I would have to display them! Your fans would love to see them if they are easily located! Thank you for bringing JOY to my email box!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 7:10 AM
  
  AT THE END OF THIS POST IS SUGGESTIONS FOR OTHER POSTS AND THE SHOES ARE THERE NOW!
  THAT POST IS FROM 2015.
  CAN YOU FIND THAT?
  GO TO EMAIL AND CLICK ON READ AND SCROLL DOWN PAST SUBSCRIPTION BOX I BELIEVE!
  OTHERWISE, YES I CAN TAKE A PHOTO FOR YOU!
  XXX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 6:45 AM

Before I read the whole blog Brunelleschi was the architect of the Duomo. No one had built a sound ceiling like that before. It was the first one. Do I win?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:50 AM
  
  YES!
  YOU WIN EVERY TIME AND HOW CLEVER OF YOU TO POST BEFORE YOU FORGET!!
  HE WAS A VERY TINY MAN BY THE LOOK OF HIS SLIPPERS IN THE BASEMENT OF THE DUOMO!
  AMAZING WHAT THEY DID WITHOUT POWER TOOLS AND BIG TRUCKS!
  I WAS TOLD THEY PILED DIRT MOUNDS TO CLIMB UP TO WORK ON THE TOP!
  XXX
Pat
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 6:37 AM

Elizabeth, you sure do get around! What a kick seeing your postcard in Flower magazine! Have you been keeping a count of how many magazines and ads you’ve been spotted in? What fun!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:52 AM
  
  ALL MAGAZINES ARE RIGHT HERE BESIDE MY DESK……….iN DANGER OF BETTY JUMPING AND GRABBING AND CHEWING!BETTER CHANGE THAT TODAY!
  DO YOU HAVE THE Leslie Jordan BOOK IN STOCK?
  XXX
Kathy L
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 6:29 AM

Congratulations on 35 years of marriage – we celebrated 34 years in May. My husband weighs less than he did when we were married – I hate that – haha! “Make joy daily” – is good advice!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:52 AM
  
  HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE THOSE MEN CAN DO THAT?!!!
  XXX
Pipistrello
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 5:39 AM

Happy Anniversary to you and the Italian, dearest!!! 35 years seems like such a long time but it probably feels like it went in a flash, and it’s wonderful to see that you’re both so happy together. You looked utterly gorgeous on your wedding day and I especially love the photo of you both with the Duomo!

That Charlotte is a peach – couldn’t you just eat her!! Best of luck with your new doctor …

Baci bella xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:56 AM
  
  A PEACH IS A GOOD WORD!!
  MY MOTHER TOLD ME TO TAKE ANOTHER LOOK AT HIM HAVE YOU HEARD THAT STORY?
  I THINK I MAY HAVE WRITTEN ABOUT IT HERE WAY BACK!
  MY MOTHER WAS SPOT ON AND I’M HAPPY I LISTENED TO HER!
  I STILL GET RED ROSES FROM COSTCO TOO!!!!!!!!
  XXX
Michelle Foley
· Reply

July 8, 2021 at 4:40 AM

A very happy Anniversary to you both!! Your wedding pics are beautiful and those shoes?. Your grand daughter is adorable and looks very happy sitting like a little princess on your lap…. Betty….getting big. Is she still eating the flowers?? I am getting our new fur babe (male white Scottie) the end of July!!! I’m picking him up outside of Houston and my husband and I are having an active debate on his name…I want Farley, Joe wants Jax….I’ll keep you posted.
I am with you on monogrammed Birdies. They would be perfect. I have a neighbor that used to monogram…I think I need to contact her but Birdie would be smart to offer this!!!
Hope the lung doctor can work his magic. Be well…be happy…smile…
Love m
- Ginger
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  July 8, 2021 at 6:40 AM
  
  Happy Anniversary! Gorgeous photos of you both with such happiness and joy! Love your life stories; fascinating and delightful! Do you still have your wedding shoes? Of course monogrammed velvet slipper shoes would be fabulous and everyone would want a pair of Contessa’s!!! I hope your doctor appointment sheds some light and hope on your health challenges. Thank you for the joy and laughter you bring into our lives by sharing with your life! Big hugs!!!
  - LA CONTESSA
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    Author
    
    July 8, 2021 at 6:59 AM
    
    YES!
    THEY ARE FRAMED UNDER LUCITE WITH MY VEIL AND INVITATION AND LETTER FROM THE SHOEMAKER!
    IN MY WALK IN CLOSET!I ALWAYS THOUGHT I WOULD DO THE SAME WITH THE WEDDING DRESS BUT ALAS…………the CAFTANS HAVE WON OUT!
    THANK YOU FOR ENJOYING THE BLOG!!
    XXX
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 7:04 AM
  
  YES TO FARLEY!
  YES TO EATING FLOWERS AND BANKSY’S POOP,BARK and tiny rocks!!!!
  I CAN SEE YOU WEARING THE MONOGRAM SLIPPERS!!!
  DOC WAS EXTREMELY NICE SPENT 45 minutes with me!WHAT A CHANGE THAT WAS!!
  XXX
Nadine keller
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July 8, 2021 at 4:27 AM

Happy Anniversary Contessa! I love Leslie – and look forward to receiving his book! Those slippers are fabulous – my husband was a huge Churchill fan!
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:46 AM
  
  A FEW YEARS BACK I WENT TO HIS HOME!COUNTRY HOME……………..OH THE FEELINGS THAT OVER CAME ME!
  THEY EVEN HAVE A RESIDENT MARMALADE CAT LIKE HE HAD!!
  HOPE BIRDIES GETS MY MESSAGE!!!
  LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR BIG BOOK LAUNCH LET ME KNOW!!!!
  I WILL POST HERE!!!
  XXX
  - Cara (S. FL)
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    July 13, 2021 at 6:37 PM
    
    Chartwell is one of our favorites, too, Elizabeth! We loved that the sofa showed it had had been sharpened on by cats.It’s such a down-to-earth place, not like the National Trust’s grand houses. Bateman’s (Kipling’s home), Igtham More and Standen are also wonderful . If you haven’t seen those, you’d love them!
    
    Happy Anniversary!
Parnassus
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July 8, 2021 at 12:32 AM

Hello Contessa, Happy Anniversary, and many Happy Returns! Yes, the world is full of so many remarkable coincidences and connections, and as you point out, the more you get out and do things and talk to people, the more will come your way. What a beautiful granddaughter you have! If I were you, I would keep her and give your son Betty as a consolation prize–I always say, if you are going to do that much work, I would rather have a baby!
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:44 AM
  
  THANKS JIM!
  Puppies ARE A LOT OF WORK JUST LIKE A BABY!BUT SHE IS A GOOD GIRL MOST OF THE TIME!
  I AM LUCKY AS SHE SLEEPS A LOT!SHE GROWS DAILY IN FRONT OF MY EYES!!
  TOMORROW SHE GETS HER LAST SHOTS AND THEN CAN HEAD OUT INTO THE WORLD………..with me!
  BE WELL OVER THERE IN TAWAIN!
  XXX
Michele Ferrari
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July 7, 2021 at 8:11 PM

Elizabeth I absolutely loved reading more about your wedding! Your blog never disappoints – I bought Leslie’s book after I heard him talk about it on a podcast and he is
amazing and so entertaining. I’m sure many people have told you to write a book about your life – I believe it would be a bestseller – and also a children’s book about Banksy, Theodore and Miss Betty! Hope a little birdie tells Birdies about your wish for the special “Contessa” edition -you never know!
Hugs
M
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:41 AM
  
  I TOO BOUGHT HIS BOOK AFTER LISTENING TO HIM ON THE TODAY SHOW LIVE!I NEVER LISTEN TO THOSE LIVES BUT HE CAUGHT MY ATTENTION!
  I HAVE MY ARTIST LINED UP JUST NEED TO CHAT WITH HER………….as far as a children’s BOOK!
  THAT WOULD BE SOMETHING about the SLIPPERS!
  I bet I could SELL A FEW EACH DAY just by WEARING THEM!
  XXX
Kimberly Frick
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July 7, 2021 at 2:52 PM

Happy Anniversary my lovely Contessa! I wish you and your Italian many many more years of health and happiness. I am sorry you have not been feeling well. Hopefully an answer is coming soon.
On another note, yes yes yes on the monogram slippers.
I loved reading everything in this post. What a life you have lived and there is so much more happy & wonderful times ahead.
Sending you lot’s and lot’s of love!
XOXO,
Kimberly
- LA CONTESSA
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  Author
  
  July 8, 2021 at 6:37 AM
  
  THANK YOU KIMBERLY!TIME DOES FLY AND ITS HARD TO BELIEVE IT HAS BEEN 35 years!
  XOXO