Hello my dear friends,
With our December posting (date & topic undecided at this time), I will sign off with our lovely group which has lasted for 5+ years.
As we all know life is a series of cycles, and this cycle has had a really good run for which I thank each one of you, as without you there would have never have been a BIO.
Each of our lives have changed, a little or a lot, and so too have our interests.
I know I don’t need to say anything else. You all know how much your support has meant to me over the years. I will continue to blog, albeit a bit differently than before as I now find most things frivolous and unworthy of my limited time (or yours). As I saw my husband through his hideous demise from Alzheimer’s you guys sustained me, made me laugh, made me realize there were wonderful women all around the world & that each of us finds a way to sustain ourselves, shelter ourselves from the many problems life shoves upon us.
If any one of you wish to take up the leadership mantel please do so.
I will read and comment on every post.
I only ask this:
Will each of you please post for our last united time?
I would love to hear from you.
& if you have any suggestions for a topic please let me know.
I love each one of you and I wish you the absolute BEST holiday season ever !!!
Marsha
This DEAR READERS was from OUR HEAD HONCHO of the BY INVITATION ONLY GROUP where we would write a POST once a month and give YOU the READERS A chance to read and ENJOY and comment on OTHER peoples BLOGS.
WE ALL WROTE ON THE SAME TOPIC!
I was SO HONORED to have been ASKED to join this GROUP as the BLOGGERESSESS in this GROUP I considered to be BIG STUFF!
I told my ITALIAN HUSBAND ,”I don’t think I can do it!”
He pushed ME and said,”WHY NOT?!!”
I knew WHY NOT in MY head but JUMPED In FULL THROTTLE.
IAM SO HAPPY I DID!
I learned to COPY & PASTE!!!!!!
I learned how to ADD A LINK…………..RECeNTLY TOO I MIGHT ADD!
I would WORRY about MY CONTENT verses the other BLOGGERS and spend HOURS putting a POST together.
When it came time to PUSH that PUBLISH button I would HOLD MY BREATH!
TRUE!!!!
I would wait for the first COMMENT To come rolling in…………….
But what I ENJOYED the MOST was becoming FRIENDS with these WOMEN through OUR COMMENTS!
The CAMARADERIE is ENORMOUS!
I ENJOYED skipping from BLOG POST to BLOG POST and seeing each of our TAKES on the same subject.
TODAYS SUBJECT was suggested by VICKI ARCHER:
“Perhaps we could all write our thoughts on blogging, the changes, the highs and the lows.. the future where we see it leading.”
I REALLY have NO IDEA where all this SHARING and WRITING will lead.
I was told last year by a FRIEND that SOON everything will be VIDEO.
I will NOT be a PART of THAT.
THAT’s just NOT ME.
Although, I am GUILTY of taking a SELFIE once in awhile!
I can TELL YOU WHY I Love to do it!
For me it’s a JOURNEY of SORTS……..
A DIARY.
MY FOLLOWERS are MY PEN PALS and they are from ALL OVER THE WORLD!
I do not have to wait weeks for their letter or thoughts to arrive by snail mail.
I hear back within a DAY maybe three at most!
I find people with similar interests…..
We form a BOND.
“WHERE IS BLOGGING HEADED?”
IT started off a one person platform………
Now MOST BLOGGERS ADVERTISE!
I hear they make a PeNNY a click if one were too TAP the AD button!
I cannot STAND THE ADS MYSELF.They take over the BLOG.
Then there is the PIN SCREEN that comes over THE PHOTOS which makes me not able to see the photo clearly!
It annoys ME!
Then when you finish READING the POST one has to wade through more ADVERTISEMENT!!
I WANT TO COMMENT NOT WAIT for the AD TO LOAD!!!On Most BLOGS the comment BUTTON is SO SMALL………..I figure A MAN designed that.
NEEDS TO BE BIG and BOLD!
Like ME!!!
EASY TO SEE!!
(CAN YOU SPY MY DOUBLE CHIN HERE!?)
I think WE loved the BLOGS Of YESTERDAY!
They were like NEWSPAPERS without the ADS!
Or television without COMMERCIALS.
They were a PIECE of ART.
A piece of THAT PERSON you did or DIDNOT know in REAL LIFE.
It was an escape to another country in some BLOGS that could make you D R E A M.
(VICKI & COTY YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS!)
AND NOW.
MOST blogs come to FREQUENTLY.Perhaps to get more of the PENNY clicks?
Content…….well lets just say some are REACHING for something to write about!
Then there are THOSE BIG GUNS who ALWAYS have something GREAT TO SHARE with us!
As they tend to LIVE EXTRAORDINARY LIVES.
I considered coming to a HALT a few months ago.
THAT was a fleeing moment.
I am still here.
Sharing MY STUFF.
It is a way for me to stay IN THE GAME so to speak of this GENERATION.
A way for me to connect to FUN people.
A reason to TRAVEL to meet THE FUN PEOPLE.
A reason for LIVING.
TO ESCAPE my DAILY DUTIES……………….
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BLOG WORLD!
The BEAUTY is you can SUBSCRIBE or UNSUBSCRIBE with a CLICK!
YOU can decide if a BLOG is WORTHY of your TIME or NOT!
WE are ALL SO BUSY doing what; I REALLY DON’T KNOW!
I had a FRENCH FRIEND who said, this to me, ” YOU AMERICANS are so busy you never have time for a get together.”
SHE was RIGHT.
To STOP doing what was THE PLAN and INTERRUPT our DAY……………..NEVER!
We were on a MISSION to complete the daily TASKS.
SHE UN~SUBSCRIBED from THE VINTAGE CONTESSA about a year ago!
AFTER ALL THOSE YEARS I did not DESERVE HER TIME or INTERESTS.
THAT is A ~ OKAY.
I caNOT please ALL OF YOU ALL OF THE TIME.
But the ONES I CAN PLEASE ………I CHERISH.
I would GIVE The COAT off my BACK.
THAT IS WHY I will continue HERE until TECHNOLOGY becomes TOO MUCH for me to maneuver.
DEAR DEAR , MARSHA……………I THANK YOU for the OPPORTUNITY you gave me!YOU REALLY gave me a GIFT like no other.I am SO SORRY about YOUR DEAR HUSBAND.I cannot even IMAGINE what you have gone through.I WISH YOU THE VERY BEST in 2 0 1 6.I feel CERTAIN I will make it to TEXAS or you to CALIFORNIA and OUR PATHS will CROSS!
I PROMISE TO MAKE THAT HAPPEN!!!
THAT is MY GIFT to YOU!!!
I THANK YOU for allowing me be a part of this SPECIAL group.
I GREW, I ENJOYED and I made NEW FRIENDS!
XO
MERRY CHRISTMAS………..HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!
SIGNING OUT for 2015!!!!!!!!!
GO HERE To SEE what the other BLOGERESSESS have to say!It may be early on in the day so do check back for their LINK.The LINK is way down on MARSHA’s site……….keep scrolling until you see photos and names in BOXES!
XOXOXOXO……………YOUR CONTESSA!
Isla Tullos says
Dear Vintage Contessa: Will you do something for Elle? On her blog about Gramercy Park, she commented that if she could go back, she might even twirl. I finally got a comment to “post”, asking other friends of Elle’s to twirl with me on Christmas Eve in her honor. Lost in Arles likes the idea. SAJ is going to post it on his blog on the 23rd. Are you interested in helping share the idea for us all to twirl for Elle on Christmas Eve? I’m twirling at 7 p.m., CST., Mississippi.
Thank you and keep on blogging! You are a hoot! I mean that in the very best and most positive way too! Merry Christmas!
contessa says
OF COURSE I WILL TWIRL!!!!!!!!!MAYBE even DO a PIROUETTE!!!
XOXO
Shireen says
Great idea!!! I will twirl for Ellie in Vermont!
Lillian Plummer says
Phew! Just found your post and upon re reading realised that Marsha is the one taking a break from blogging. I was sorry to hear that her situation has changed of course, but happy to know you are continuing. Really enjoy your life experiences and look forward to hearing more. I am Australian living and working in Hong Kong for more years than I care to remember. Hope you and your lovely family have a happy Xmas. LuvL
contessa says
Lillian…………NO!
Marsha will still be BLOGGING it is HER GROUP called BIO that is ending!I know it was confusing how I started off with her email to her TEAM.
THANK YOU for READING ME!I will try to keep having those LIFE EXPERIENCES to SHARE with YOU!
I was in HONG KONG in 1981……………..I LOVED IT!
HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO YOU!!!XX
Theresa says
Oh thank Gawd!!!!! Reading your post on the train in this morning my heart stopped at reading the letter from your beloved fellow blogger as I mistook her letter as YOURS!!!# Dearest and most beloved CONTESSA!!!!! I feared Giampy ill and my heart sank as tears welled up in my eyes. I read on and exhaled with relief to learn it was not you and your family struck with thus devastating situation, but alas rather another. My heart goes out to your fellow blogger and the challenges she endures.
Your kind words and description of the friendship shared with your blogging chums is inspiring. Birds of a feather do flock together! Even electronically by the click of the keys. And your FEATHERS, Dearest Contessa, are the most colorful and the warmest of them all!!!!! Thank you for sharing.
contessa says
SO, SORRY to STARTLE YOU and OTHERS……….I guess I got your attention HOWEVER!
WE are fine and getting older and preparing for a FEAST tomorrow!The PROGRESSIVE STREET PARTY!!
How are YOU DEAR BARONESS………..OH GOD AS I type this I realize YOU had a BIRTHDAY..the 16??TANTI TANTI AUGURI!!!
Are YOU ever going to call me?!!
XO
Sandra Sallin says
OMG, I started reading and thought you were going to stop blogging Don’t do that to us. It’s bad for my heart! Good for Marsha starting a new adventure and wrapping up her contribution to the blogging world. Now it’s time for herself. You! What would I do with out your fairy dust being sprinkled around my world? Love your adventures. Love your flair. Love your friends. Love your photos. It’s always a special day when you post a blog! Happy Holidays and New Year. Now I need to get back to work.
Susie Nolan says
Dear Elizabeth, and hello Sandra, I’m sorry I’m commenting on your post can’t seem to figure where to put comments!!!! OMG I quote Sandra, I read and re read so sad for Marsha. I know I’m very slow in the mornings. I adore your blogs and people to whom I have been introduced through reading . Firstly Thank You for saying “I Remember” life is fragile and treasure it, we must. Wishing you and your family and assorted divine pets a Happy Christmas and a healthy and colourful New Year. Don’t you dare stop!!!!! Love Susie xxxx sparkle my friend
contessa says
How could I STOP BLOGGING when I have you to contend with if I did!?
NOT YET…………..NOT until I cannot KEEP UP with LA COMPUTER!!
IT’s TOO MUCH FUN!
LOOK I MET YOU and I just wish WE had found each other sooner…………….XO
Heather Lindstrom says
Good morning beautiful Contessa,
I love that last photo of you–full of fun & sparkle. I always enjoy stopping by your blog and I trust I will always get the ‘real scoop’ about what you are thinking. Thank you for your wonderful comment on my blog today. I am SO pleased that you follow and stop by to say ‘Hello’. So happy that you are STILL here after your brief flirtation with letting go of blogging. We need YOU in this community. There are always disappointments but there is so much good as well.
It has been wonderful to connect with other bloggers for the ‘By Invitation Only’ series with dear Marsha. Fun chapter to share with you!
Wishing you a splendid holiday with your family dear Contessa!
xx, Heather
contessa says
MERRY CHRISTMAS HEATHER……………….YOU will ALWAYS GET THE SCOOP from me!I think that is ONE of my many flaws………I am TOO HONEST!
XX
vicki archer says
Beautiful, Elizabeth… your energy and enthusiasm always makes me feel happy.. I love that you are blogging and sharing your wonderful world with us.. Thank you… 🙂
Much love for the holiday season.. have a fabulous one… xxv
contessa says
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
I AM TICKLED PINK that you FOLLOW ME!
XO
Karena says
Dear Elizabeth, You ARE One of the reason I kept blogging! When I was ready to give it up, the encouragement , the support of my blog friends all over the world kept me going. To make a difference, to jump out of the box and take a risk on a new venture with India Hicks! I can never thank you and all of my other blog friends enough!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
The Reason for the Season
contessa says
DID I have something TO DO with your decision………..WELL TRA>>>>LA!
YOU cannot stop………..how would I know what NEW BOOKS ARE out there to CAPTURE?
Love MY INDIA HICKS CANDLES!!!!
XO
Penelope Bianchi says
Brava! You are the BEST!!!
I will try to write something today! I am buried!!
XXOO I love you , Marsha!!!
contessa says
BETTER LATE then NEVER……………….I would be interested in what YOU have to SAY!
XO
Barb says
I just found your blog and I am so thankful you will continue. While I don’t know Marsha, I understand her decision. I was a blogger (www.thefrenchelements.blogspot.com) for many years. I made so many friends and still keep in contact with quite a few. My youngest son was disabled and blogging took precious time away so I started blogging less and less and less….. In May, I decided to start blogging again. Not everyday but more than a few times a year. It was nice to reconnect with the few who “remembered me”. My son was excited when I told him I was going to start blogging again. It wasn’t to last very long though.
On July 1st, my youngest son passed away at 32. Total devastation. I did a few posts as so many “knew” him. The IG community was very supportive and oh so kind. I disabled comments on some blog posts because I couldn’t bear to read the comments there. I am not sure if Blogging is something I will return too.
I will say that there are so many blog I enjoyed visiting but you have to wade through all the ads before you can read the post. These are blogs that take forever to load as well. I guess it could be from all the ads. In the past I did have an ad on a few blogs. It just didn’t feel right to me however. Too “in your face” and I guess that is not my style.
I am rambling on Elizabeth, I an thankful that I found your blog. It is the real deal.
Barb
contessa says
YOU areNOT RAMBLING…………I am HERE to make you smile and hopefully LAUGH out LOUD a few times through out the year!I have TWO SONS…………..I can ONLY IMAGINE THE PAIN.
I believe your HUSBAND is fighting HIS own BATTLE.YOU WILL SURVIVE and if I can be of any help at ALL…………….a CHAT on the phone or a girly email; I will call you if you email me your number!Lets be EMAIL BUDS!!!Send me an email………[email protected] name is ELIZABETH………….like the QUEEN and I have a CARDIGAN CORGI TOO to BOOT!
MERRY CHRISTMAS……………..XOXO
D. A. Wolf says
Yes, blogs have changed, and for some of us, not for the better. We may embrace done of the changes, and feel uncomfortable with others. Best of all, as you point out, the incredible friendships.
And you, my friend, were made for amazing hats, and red and green tulle in your hair!
Wishing you a magical holiday season with all your beautiful boys and friends — and hats!
xoxo
D. A.
contessa says
IT Is a TUTU!
I was walking around the house trying to find a spot for it and I did on a DEER at THE BAR!
Looks better on HER then MOI!
DON”T FORGET YOUR RED LIPSTICK!!!!!!!!!
XOXO
Merisi says
“The End” made my heart jump, and not in a good way! I am sorry to hear that Marsha will leave your circle of blogging friends, but I am very relieved that “the end” was not referring to your blog!!! I promise I will read all other blogs you link to, not least because I am contemplating about the future of my blog, after publishing for ten years as of next week. As you mentioned, there is now another world of bloggers, and it seems that they are not blogs in the original sense anymore. They seem more like vehicles to advertise or mediums to sell something, headlines like “5 best” of this and that, often content that has not been originally created by those “bloggers”.
I am guilty of publishing daily, 365/366 days a week, and that goes back to my original intent and reason for starting my blog, sharing my new hometown with my friends. It came as an absolute surprise to me that other people were also able to “find” my blog! 😉
Anyway, I am looking forward to continue to read yours and your friends’ blogs.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday season, and good health and joy in the New Year,
yours,
Merisi
contessa says
KEEP PHOTOGRAPHING VIENNA!!!!!!!!!!!
WHAT’s NOT TO LIKE!!!!!!!!
I ADORE YOU LIKE A GOOD COFFEE!!!!!!!!
CIAO BELLA…………..AUGURI………BUON ANNO NUOVO!
XO
French Basketeer says
Wow what a post, our dear Elizabeth, and how wonderful was Marsha to continue the Invitation series, which I really have looked forward to each month. I am so glad you will continue to blog, and thrilled that you have found discovery through it. The best gift I received this Christmas was having you and so many dear friends at our home for the party; looking at your images here brought tears to my eyes…how fantastic are all of my friends, so many of whom I met through blogging? How great are all of the connections that have been made, the support which has been given, the love that has been shared through the magic of blogging??? Looking forward to beautiful new posts and new energy in the year 2016~
contessa says
DEAL……………….
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
XO
Heather in Arles says
You are such a beauty. Period, full-stop. Inside and Out. And yes, you WOULD give the coat off your back to any of us. I know that and that is why you are such an important part of what this weird little-huge blog world can offer. I am so proud to call you my friend. You bring more joy to people than you know…
With much Love,
H
contessa says
YOU REALLY THINK SO?
JOY TO THE WORLD…………..I can break into SONG NOW!!!
IT is such a pleasure to see these comments it brings such JOY to me to know that I make people happy with my tidings of doings in and around the HOME!
XOXOXOXO
Katie Clooney says
WELL DONE, Contessa… If it weren’t for blogging, I would never have met the fabulous YOU. I AGREE with the fact that blogging has changed. And I am SICK and TIRED of ads!! I am starting to weed out the blogs on my blogroll. If I have to click more than ONCE to get to the site they are off. And as far as POP UPS go – that is a MORTAL SIN!! Lovely Contessa… I am GLAD that you are sticking with blogging because I would be BROKEN HEARTED if you left. Have a WONDERFUL Holiday, dear royal FRIEND.
contessa says
I forgot POP UPS!!YOU are SO right!
YOU of all people will be PLEASED To know I follow that little ROYAL PRINCE over there in LONDON!Today, on INSTAGRAM they commented back at ME!Now I know it was NOT him but it was someone in THE OFFICE that revolves around HRH!!!
MADE MY DAY!
AFTER ALL THESE GREAT COMMENTS from YOU and OTHERS!!!
THANK YOU!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
XO
Miss Mary says
Another stand-out post from our BELOVED CONTESSA.
You really have a way with words. (not to mention a way with PHOTOS!) Besides your superior style, your creative approach to décor, and your beautiful animals, I think what I appreciate most is your deep, lovely generosity of spirit.
All seasons change, and I think your thoughts about this “end-of-an-era” are spot on-Congratulations on your wonderful “blogiverse”- we are truly the luck ones to get to come along for the ride.
Happy Holidays <3 <3 <3
contessa says
I THANK YOU MISS MARY………as withOUT all of YOU I would be talking to the wind!
When will YOU be popping out to CALIFORNIA ?
WE MUST MEET……………..I have a silly gift for that DAUGHTER of yours!
XO
Anita Rivera says
Good evening dearest Contessa! I too miss the early blog days when it was exciting and easier to get around on a blog. Too much advertisements makes it sometimes difficult to read through the pages that are always jumping to upload the links! I have a handful of cherished friend that came only from blogging and for that, I am so grateful. I may not be blogging anymore, but I still come to visit you and many others whose style and kindness are most valuable to me. HAPPY 2016 dearest Contessa! Anita
contessa says
YOUR BLOG WAS BEYOND WORDS……………………one day I hope to see YOU RETURN!
I sent you a CHRISTMAS CARD I do hope it finds your CASTLE and makes YOU smile!
XO
Anita Rivera says
P.S. I agree with your French pal. It sometimes pains me that friends can’t even make time to see each other more often. Everyone is way too busy.
contessa says
Her reference was to have a coffee and a chat………..WE ARE SO SCHEDULED HERE or at least I was.TWO boys…….school, homework, sports……..a dinner that started with PASTA and then continued I did not have much time in those days.Now, I have ALL the time in the WORLD!
I regret that I did not do more impronto CAFES!!!
XO
Catherine says
Thank you for sharing. I’ve really enjoyed reading your blogs. Best of luck to you in 2016.
contessa says
THANKS CATHERINE!!!XX
SAJ says
This is such a sweet post it just about makes me cry. How sad that BIO is coming to a close.
You are a constant breath of fresh air and I’m certain that you brighten the days of many with your posts. I know you have brightened mine. As for your French friend who has left? Well, the French are wonderful but they don’t get everything right. Writes the man who is sitting with a glass of CDR and brie slathered on a baguette. Merry Christmas and happiest new year to you, the ITALIAN husband, the boys, and the menagerie of happy pets.
contessa says
“the French are wonderful but they don’t get everything right.”
OH< HOW THE ITALIAN HUSBAND WOULD LOVE THIS!!!! DO TELL.........I am always a bit slow with the initials...........CDR.........means?? YOU enjoy EVERY BITE Of that BAQUETTE as I would LOVE To sink my teeth into it but the GLUTEN Thing is a problem with me! MERRY CHRISTMAS...............TO YOU AND BARBIE! XO
Deborah Peterson Milne says
Your energy and vitality towards life has always been infectious dear Elizabeth. You exude this through your beautiful posts and I appreciate them very much. I feel like I jumped ship with writing and participating for By Invitation Only. I just lost my voice. I adore Marsha and all she’s done in those 5 years + and she’s another blogging friend that I hold near & dear. Life does change. What is it that they say, the ebb and flow of life? I was thrilled to see our pics on your post and feel so honored. Honored to have met you & begin this next crazy chapter of life. Here’s to new beginnings and getting to know each other more. Merry Christmas precious lady! xox
contessa says
MERRY CHRISTMAS………………..I will be in touch come JANUARY!I hope HE gets the kitchen somewhat done in these next coming weeks!If YOU NEED BAKED GOODS I can DO THAT and run out to HIGHWAY FIVE as YOU PASS BY………look for TALL woman with a TIARA on her head……..and I can HAND OFF The GOODS!!!!!!
XO
Jennifer says
It is sad to see the end of BIO! Marsha put her heart and soul into creating a group of diverse, unique women. It was so fun to read each other’s take on the same topic! Blogs have certainly changed over the years. It’s a rich experience meeting so many wonderful women. They become real friends, don’t they?
Merry, Merry Christmas my friend!!
XX Jennifer
contessa says
YES INDEEDY!
I found YOU and LOOK YOU are in MY BACKYARD!
WHAT A SMALL WORLD IT IS.
MERRY CHRISTMAS……..I know with that GRANDSON it will be THE BEST YET!
XO
Marsha says
Ahhh, my courtly Contessa…this is the most sincere & lovely posts I’ve ever read. It is making me sad and joyous at the same time. By Invitation Only may have closed but we will all still blog and we will all still be friends. I know that! I cannot believe you copied and pasted my words at the beginning of the post…I came to a screeching stop realizing I had written those words. Yep, those ads and the click-overs have made it very uninteresting to me too. Not a good way to monetize our spaces at all. Big Texas/Italian hug to you and all the boys, my friend. It’s not over for us.
contessa says
IT”S NOT OVER until it’s OVER………..someone said that BUT we have just begun!Did I ever tell YOU I worked at SAKS FIFTH AVENUE TOO!YES, I did in SOUTH COAST PLAZA………Must have been 1979~80.I was a FLOATER but they stuck me in COUTURE A LOT!!!Terrified ME!
XOXO
Tricia Rose Rough Linen says
You do NOT have a double chin.
There are other ways of communicating, don’t worry – you won’t go unheard Contessa!
xx
contessa says
AS long as I have YOU TO Lunch with NO!
YES, I DO!!!!!!!!!!Both my PARENTS HAD ONE and I HAVE IT TOO!
Thats OKAY……..FAT Makes us look YOUNGER In the long haul…….or so says my 90 YEAR OLD MOTHER!!!!!
XO
foodiefan says
I was reading your blog out loud to my darling man and like a few others here took a quick breath when I read about husband with Alzheimer’s disease and immediately thought oh no how did we miss that? Glad to hear G hasn’t been afflicted though very sorry for Marsha.
You are the only blog I subscribe to but can see how incredible friendships arise from discovering like minded souls in the Internet world….really like modern day pen pals!
Sent you a parcel via U.S son when he was home in early Nov but hear it hasn’t quite made it your way!! He tells me he will drop it in when he returns from the Caribbean….
Have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy the family festivities and hope 2016 exciting and interesting year! xo
contessa says
I had a TEXT This morning at 6 am……..from a number I did not recognize and I say “WHO ARE YOU?” He answered immediately HARRY!Seems he was at the airport ready to board the flight SOUTH…………..this eve I look at INSTAGRAM and there HE is on an ISLAND having HIS FIRST SIP of VACATION!
I look FORWARD to seeing HIM and HEARING ALL ABOUT The WATERS and SAND!These children of OURS donot lack in ACTIVITIES!!!
THANK YOU MUM for my gifts…………….YOU ARE A DEAR PERSON and I REALLY wish I lived CLOSER……………..XOXOXO
Susan (une femme) says
It was such a delight to meet you last month!! I hope we can meet again soon, and with Sandra too, of course. Your blog is an absolute delight, as are you. Happiest of Holidays to you and the best in the New Year and Beyond!
contessa says
TO YOU TOO……………SUSAN!
I look FORWARD TO MEETING AGAIN!
I REALLY DO!
XX
contessa says
VIA EMAIL:
WOW !!!!
I could not have said it better !
At least I think I understand what you said ?
Stop if you like, stop if you must, however
You would be sorely missed !
Carolyn
PS, I had no clue that there were so many rich women running blogs along with a retail business inside their mansions ! Where do they ever got the time ? I mean time to enjoy all that life has to offer. A penny a click, well, my time is worth more and so I am opting out of several blogs that add nothing to my life. I believe that you may have hit the nail on the head with this last ??? blog. God Bless and God Speed you onto your next endeavor .
Lisa says
Contessa. You are a gracious person, in real life. It was a pleasure to have met you.
contessa says
MANY THANKS!!!
Stacie says
Oh please don’t stop blogging or taking selfies! I need my ELIZABETH FIX! Others do too, I know for certain. Thank you for the true glimpses into your life. Your honesty gives those around you the ease to be real. Merry Christmas my friend!
contessa says
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
MY YOUNGEST is on the SLOPES TODAY!!!LOOK for the BULLeT doing somersaults across the SNOW!!!!!!!THis MY DEAR is what you have to look forward too TIMES THREE!!!!!!!!XO
cindy hattersley says
Elizabeth
I enjoyed your spin on this topic. It is 5 a.m and I have been reading the posts of others in your group. Vicki had a great idea. I have been blogging almost three years now and I agree with you somewhat about the ads etc., but I totally understand people wanting to benefit from how much time they spend. Sometimes I am blogging when I should be working! Let’s meet up and get together in the new year! We need to just set a date.
contessa says
HOW ABOUT JANUARY 14th……..a THURSDAY!
Charlotte Des Fleurs says
Dear Elizabeth-
SOO happy that YOU are not stopping your blog. And that your Italian hubby is still in good health. There is a certain blog that I used to like (CDT). It is now so filled with forced material, thinly disguised real estate and other advertisements that I rarely take the time to read it. That is the same reason I terminated my subscriptions to ELLE, VERANDA and ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST – every other page was filled with advertisements.
Thanks to you I found Ellie at HAVE SOME DECORUM and Heather at LOST IN ARLES. Need to start following STEVEN ANDREW JONES on a regular basis. All four of you have such original, fresh yet different voices. I miss our mutual friend, Andrea, who has not been doing much with her blog, FRENCHBASKETEER, lately. Put a bug in her ear, please!
I will ask my 5 year old Grand Daughter to do a twirl on Christmas Eve for Ellie. Thank goodness she cannot read ALL the words (you KNOW which ones I mean), but she loves the pictures on Ellie’s blog.
Feel like I know you. Some day hope to meet you in person, perhaps at one of Andrea’s soirees!
Merry Christmas to you and your family,
Charlotte Des Fleurs
contessa says
OUR DEAR FRIEND has had HER PLATE full with RESPONSIBILITIES!She is a JEWEL………I too hope soon she will start the BLOG up again!
YOU have FOUND MY PEOPLE!!!LOVE ALL THAT YOU ARE FOLLOWING!
As for the magazines…………YES, me too lost interest in AD Years ago!SOmething HAPPeNED THERE Not for the BETTER……..EllE was a book of ADS and uncomfortable TO HOLD……..But I still have held tight to VERANDA.
MERRY CHRISTMAS………………..I will be TWIRLING TOO on CHRISTMAS EVE about 7PM.What a BEAUTIFUL IDEA this woman ISLA HAS HAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!SPREAD THE TWIRL FOR ELLIE MESSAGE!!!!!!!!XO
Loree says
Dearest Contessa, I think we all love you because you make us smile. You have such a huge love for this imperfect life that it is infectious. I am late to comment this week because I am running late with Christmas (go figure). Looking forward to reading more of your adventures in 2016. Merry Christmas from a (way too sunny) island in the middle of the deep blue.
contessa says
MERRY CHRISTMAS………and YOU ARENOT LATE!
XO
Jacqueline says
Dear Elizabeth,
I’m so sorry …… I have commented on all of the BIO participants and somehow left you out …… HOW COULD I !!!!!
What a wonderful post to finish our BIO series with….. I am rather sad that it’s all over but onwards and upwards eh ?!!!!! ….. and here’s to continued blogging friendship in 2016. XXXX
contessa says
ABSOLUTELY……………..I have subscribed again to your POSTS!If you do not hear from me that means it is not arriving shoot me a message SNOW LADY!!
MERRY MERRY…….or HAPPY HAPPY as YOU SAY!!!
XO
suzana says
Woo Hoo BLOGERESSESS, let the fun begin in 2016. I’ll be right here with you all the way from Australia xxx
contessa says
GOOD!
LOTS of GOOD POSTS TO SEE HERE……….FOLLOW THE LINK!!!I think there are about 14 people to POP over to SEE!!!
IS IT HOT DOWN THERE in AUSTRALIA?
XX
Jan schechter says
Dear Contessa
You brightened my days with your interesting stories and fun attitude have a wonderful Christmas! On to 2016!
contessa says
ONWARDS AND UPWARDS…………MERRY CHRISTMAS JAN!XO
contessa says
VIA EMAIL!
Contessa, Elizabeth,
You bring me joy.
EA
contessa says
LOVED THIS!
La Pouyette - Karin says
What a jouyful “final” post, dear Elizabeth!
Sadly, it’s the end for our “BIO-group”, of an unique blog-event, created by our dear friend Marsha. The end of 5 years interesting monthly posting, but not the end of blogging!
Let’s keep going! Looking forward to a good new blogging year!
Thank you so much for your comment, your sympathy, your warm words and thoughts!
Now, wishing you and your family a very
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Warmest greetings, Karin
contessa says
KARIN.
I look forward to FOLLOWING your BLOG and hopefully meeting up one day!
YES!
LET”S KEEP MOVING ALONG……….with our WORDS and PHOTOS.
There is SO MUCH JOY in having an email waiting to be READ from a BLOG POST……..NON?
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU……….and a VERY GOOD NEW YEAR AHEAD!!!
XO
Coty Farquhar says
I’m finally here, nearly midnight, and only two days late!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for the mention regarding the old style of blogging! I loved those days too, even though they’re not that old!
And, so nice to hear the voice of the beautiful Contessa!!!!!!!!!!! lucky you were still up!
Don’t stop sending out all that delicious beauty, even though you think you have nothing to share!!!!!!!!!!!well that’s just nonsense, I love reading your blog, and I love your hats and jewels!!!!!!xxxx talk soon.!!!!!! xx Coty
(The Explanation points are REALLY YELLOW HEARTS but somehow they came through as ??I the CONTESSA have changed them to this !!!)Does COTY know I have a YELLOW & WHITE GARDEN???”!!XX
Coty Farquhar says
Why did my yellow hearts end up as ?.. Question marks?
contessa says
Because you responded from your phone??
For some reason that happens with other people too………the EMOGIMO”S as I call THEM do not translate HERE!!!!
I shall change your ??? to !!!!as I do not have those images or if I do I do not know how to FIND THEM Here on my BIG SCREEN!!!!!
I LOVED YOUR PHONE CALL AS I WAS CLIMBING INTO BED LAST NIGHT!WHAT A WAY TO END A BEAUTIFUL DAY!!!!!!!!I have a FEELING WE COULD TALK FOR HOURS!!!THANK ~YOU………….XOXO
kim says
Love your blog and you more than you know. You inspire me with your love of life and openess for adventure and meeting new people. I only hope I can be more like you Elizabeth. I think you have the secret to a good life! I am so sorry for Marsha. Wishing her the best and how nice she did bring so many ladies together with her ideas. Keep your blog and you just as you are -you are one in a million. xoxo Kim
contessa says
THANK ~YOU……………….you are a GEM!
XOXO
Roslyn short says
WOW I am such a fan ! You make me smile , laugh & question what I’m doing & how can I lift someone else’s spirits like you do with the time & effort u put into your blog ! When I finish reading your latest I feel I’ve been caught up in a musical experience … A concerto , a symphony etc music to my ears ! Thank you & wishing you ,family & Goose a magical Festive Season with the BRIGHTEST New Year ahead love Ros
contessa says
I ADORE YOUR DESCRIPTION……..”A MUSICAL EXPERIENCE!!”A CONCERTO!!!!!!!
YES, THAT is what LIFE should BE a CONCERTO To a certain DEGREE!
SO< happy you received my card so FAST! MERRY MERRY..............keep painting and KEEP GOING TO FRANCE!!!! XOXO
Charlotte says
Dear Contessa,
I have been a long time visitor of your blog and a customer at Hen House prior to that. I’m just so bashful online that I never have commented. I’m peeking in to say Thank You! Your bravery, authenticity, spirit, and style greatly inspire me.
With gratitude and admiration,
Charlotte
contessa says
MERRY CHRISTMAS CHARLOTTE!
I THANK YOU for your BRAVERY HERE…….leaving me a comment is the BEST GIFT I can receive HERE.It means I TOUCHED YOU with my words or photographs.Which in turn keeps me PLUGGING ALONG………………….THANK ~ YOU!
XX
PS.We were just speaking about the old Hen House last night at dinner…………………!!!
anita@letshavelunch says
When I started reading this I had a terrible sinking feeling that this may be your last post.
Writing is a discipline and keeping an audience engaged, post after post, is a gift.
Elizabeth, you are a rare indeed, authentic, one of a kind, original.
Keep writing………………..if just for greedy me.
Cheers Mate
Neat xx
LA CONTESSA says
I will ALWAYS WRITE TO YOU!
PEN PALS for LIFE!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
XO
The Style Crone says
Love your headwear and your spirt. So happy that you will continue to blog. You are a special part of my blogging life! Happy Holidays Contessa!
LA CONTESSA says
STYLE CRONE………..YOUR photo of yesterday in the SNOW with the RED full LENGTH COAT was a STUNNER!
HAPPY NEW YEAR……………..look forward to YOUR POSTS TOO!
People if you want to see a STYLISH WOMAN who does YOGA and has a DIVINE collection of vintage HATS google STYLE CRONE and see what POPS UP!
XX
Isla Tullos says
Good morning! Yes, La Contessa! It was I who sent you the idea about twirling in honor of Elle on Christmas Eve. I just cannot get my messages to post on her page, so I try and try and then, boom, there they are, a whole bunch of them.
I’ll be twirling for Elle at 7 Central time tomorrow evening! Hope all of your friends and Elle’s friends will join us as we whip up a veritable storm of good tidings from around the world.
Merry Christmas!
LA CONTESSA says
ISLA………….I spoke with ELLIE yesterday!
SHE LOVED YOUR IDEA………..and YES I think WE woke HER UP!!!
THANK YOU for your BRILLIANT IDEA!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU and YOURS!!
XX
Doré @ Burlap Luxe says
Dearest Contessa. (Aka) my friend Elizabeth…
I like you dislike the advertising and add links that slow up a blog and always get in the way of the message and beauty.
I have always adored your postings and always finding humor and beauty.
So happy you have stayed with blogging and take each day as it is, blogging a message of need, or a messaged simpler days.
I know bloggers have left simply because their followers of comments have lessened, they demand to stay on top of the fight for followers and comments…. And leave to a Fast Pace Facebook, or Instagram. I do these as well, but never forget my friends here at blogger and favore my friends posting over anything out there.
You are so right it’s here where a dairy of beauty is posted, a picture book of inspiration and a connection of friendships.
It’s where we met, and lead to phone calls, and conversations that inspired a visit someday, and that someday is good enough for me.
I bid a good bye to 2015 and welcome you a 2016 where I know you will turn a beautiful leaf and the best is yet to come.
I did Get your Holiday Chistmas CARD… As I do every year, watching your family grow, and beauty mature.
I look forward to your cards and what photo will be attached. Your New Years card is on its way to you. I switched from Christmas cards this year to New Years cards 🙂
Keep posting your amazement, your inspiring life, the beauty and Awww inspiring home of things Collected and the changes you have made 🙂
I will follow and continue to adore you.
Soon my friend,
Fondly,
Xx
Bisous
Un Joyeux Noël
Merry Christmas
Happy New year!
Xx
Doré
LA CONTESSA says
DORE,
HELLO!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!I think NEW YEARS CARDS is the way to GO!
BRAVA!
Blogging is for ME……..as I said, a diary of sorts a journal.Yes, I too lose FOLLOWERS with some POSTS but then I gain some too along the way.It’s NOT about the STATS is it.YOU and I live in a MAGICAL WORLD that we have created to feed our souls……………WE cannot please everyone!As long as we please ourselves………….NOW, I have SUBSCRIBED to your blog at least 3 times over the years and still do not get a notification!!!!I LOOK for YOU on the SIDEBARS of others…………..SO SORRY if I MISS OUT.Do not know what else to do!
Let’s try to meet up this SPRING TIME………….I feel a need to HIT the DESSERT AGAIN!
MY BEST TO YOU and your gorgeous daughter,
XO
cherie says
Just now catching my breath from the holidays and all that that entails. Lately I am finding it difficult to juggle my normal life with my blog life. Hopefully I can get a better balance in the new year.
I am so sorry that I did not get to your heartfelt post until now. So many good morsels of truth in your writing. I appreciate your friendship. You are truly unique in this world of sameness. Keep on blogging Contessa and I will continue to be the very last to comment because I love to read all of the comments before mine.
Here’s to a wonderful New Year!!
XO,
Cherie
contessa says
AND YOU KNOW WHAT?
I LOVE SEEING YOU ALWAYS LATE TO THE PARTY!I wouldn’t WANT it any other way!
You being a MOTHER to FOUR children……..running your own business and BLOGGING I’m IMPRESSED with all that you DO!PLus, I might add THRIFTING!!!The fact you get HERE at ALL means the WORLD to me and I ADORE YOU!
THANK YOU………..ENJOY TONIGHT!!!
I will be cuddled up with animals thinking about ALL the WONDERFUL PEOPLE I have met these past few years………..and hopefully will get to meet one day!
XO
Jody Brettkelly says
Happy New Year dear beautiful, passionate friend, love coming to your blog and seeing the outfits the roses the chartreuse walls, the husband so proud, the boys the hounds, the pig, your shoes! and your totally original take on the world. You’re always generous but always honest. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
contessa says
JODY!
WHAT an ENCORE to my YEAR and MY blog post!
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!
I hope to publish on MONDAY……..another topic ALL ABOUT ME!
I had my AURA READ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope all of YOU who know me will have a little input!
I found it FASCINATING!
XX
Leslie Harris says
Elizabeth–I was one of those who read the first words of the post and thought it was YOU who was bringing an end to your blogging. I instantly felt my heart sink and once I realized I was mistaken (I will leave a comment on Marcia’s blog after this) I actually thought of how empty and forlorn the blog world would feel without The Contessa! I’m so serious. I feel so fortunate that our paths crossed from Heather and Jen’s link up because each time I visit you I’m floored by your exuberant personality and wonderful story telling…and don’t get me started on your style. I always enjoyed reading the posts from Marcia’s group and I’ll miss the interesting range of topics. I found myself nodding in agreement as I read your thoughts on blogging–it’s quite astonishing to me to think about the amazing women i have met through this medium. It’s the reason I stay I guess. And yes, I feel similar about those pesky ads and tiny comment buttons that have me searching for my stronger glasses hahaha
hugs to you,
Leslie
contessa says
THANK YOU SUPER MAMA and NEWYoga TEACHER EXTORDINAIRE!!
I found YOU in my SPAM!How dare the computer put YOU THERE!Hopefully, it willNOT happen again!!!
You really think I would be MISSED if I stopped blogging?Well, I thank you from the bottom of my HEART and I am still here………….plugging along thinking about what I can SHARE and what YOU all want to HEAR!
XX
Julie Russell says
Contessa, so very sad to learn of Marsh’s loss and absolutely understand her need to evolve in a new direction. The Invitation Only series will be missed by the blogger-fangirls out here in the blogosphere. Your comments are a real eye opener for me. I am clueless about penny clicks, etc. Oh my. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to TheVintageContessa.net which has brought much joy to my life since I discovered you last year. And, your blue and gold kaftan is to die. xoxo
contessa says
The KAFTAN is from that shop I was telling you about TODAY!
In SAN DIEGO on WEST LEWIS STREET……………….
WE need to go in person!
XX
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