I’m BACK!
I had a WONDERFUL trip and not certain I am ready to be BACK!
London is a BEAUTIFUL city……THE PEOPLE are SO KIND and NICE!
A Very clean CITY……….
I felt they are a much CALMER SOCIETY than WE AMERICANS.
I love the fact, they walk the children to school……….IN UNIFORMS in conversation TOO!
I saw very few CELL phones in peoples hands as they were walking and NONE in restaurants!
HOW CIVILIZED IS THAT!
WE experienced ZERO RAIN…………..UNBELIEVABLE I am told.
I did sleep through a thunder storm in RYE.
I arrived in London after a two hour delay in SAN FRAN………………I flew VIRGIN ATLANTIC for the first time and I was IMPRESSED!
My first night there I met THE SEQUINIST for dinner.She is as well TRAVELED as she is CHARMING!
She bestowed upon my long fingers a ROCK that could be used as a weapon if necessary!She is SELLING on her BLOG under SHOP ,so if you think YOU might be in NEED they come in a pale BLUE color as well!. Click here for a view of what she BLOGS ABOUT!
Our Photo together was GREAT of HER…… Horrid of ME so YOU CANNOT SEE US TOGETHER; I apologize……..YOU must realize I had been traveling for many many HOURS!Just know she lives in London but HALES from the good old USA!!!
My View while I waited for the elevator in SOUTH KENSINGTON:
The Mews where once upon a time carriages and horses would be housed!
Next Blogger UP that I was SO LUCKY to MEET up with was the INCREDIBLE CATHERINE ROBINSON from http://www.catherinerobinsoncashmere.com.She had booked a TEA for us at THE CAFE ROYAL on REGENT STREET…………….they had GLUTEN FREE!!!!
What a TREAT for me to look right into her eyes…………..we are both the same height!We HAILED a CAB and jumped in and traveled from KENSINGTON downtown chatting ALL the way!At some point,I said, “OH,I better look around me!”
We had a little SNAFU as the FIRE ALARM went off……………and WE thought it was the REAL DEAL!All I could think of was NOT in this ROOM!They chased after us as it was a drill and we resumed our CHAT!You can SEE why I was thinking NO WATER IN THIS ROOM PLEASE!!!!!
KEW GARDENS were Beautiful but A LOT was under renovation.
WISLEY…….. THE ROYAL HORTICULTURE grounds were SPECTACULAR.
THE CHELSEA GARDEN SHOW…………………..was a ONE minute TUBE RIDE from where we were staying!WE were told NOT to sit down as it would take longer to get up and fight the crowds to get OUT!The train in the TUBE is just like OUR BART here in The BAY AREA!All 69 of us were standing in front of the GATES by 7:40 AM in HOT HOT weather………I had a HAT on and thought I might FAINT!
Once inside I did a BEE line for the EXHIBITORS before the crowds got too DEEP.I then did the MARQUEE which had one of THE QUEENS CARRIAGES on display and a whole BUNCH of PEONY,ROSES and DAFFODILS!Before doing THE VENDORS I thought I should get a bite TO EAT.So, I stepped inside the FOOD TRUCK area and contemplated what I COULD EAT……..NO!NO!MAYBE YES!I stepped up to the veggie burger window and asked if it was GF…………..YES!I then ordered!The response I got back was it is only 9:30 AM and the grill is NOT on yet!We are happy to fire it up for YOU it will take a few minutes…………I laughed as I felt it was MORE like 11:30am………….so, my reply was…….”I’m on vacation GO a head and make it with a green salad on the side!”WE ALL HAD A GOOD LAUGH!
I sat with my Veggie Burger and noted the woman behind me was sipping her VINO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I found my favorite GARDEN small FOLLY made of bricks and arched windows………with an old CISTERN for holding ice and beverages….
The wall was for SALE but I know someone who can build it for me!I hope I took enough photos!How many times will he say NO before he says YES!?
I NEED A FOLLY PLEASE………………Perhaps my next GIFT from THE ITALIAN!
A DINNER meet up with the lovely Alyson WALSH of THATS NOT MY AGE took place at CAFE MURANO on ST. JAMES STREET.
She has a NEW BOOK due out in NOVEMBER!
THE CURRENT BOOK IS CALLED
STYLE FOREVER
The Grown up Guide to looking Fabulous!
I have a few corners turned down in this BOOK!
I have suggested she comes to the STATES for a BOOK TOUR!
If anyone in the LOS ANGELES area could HOST her that would be VERY SPECIAL indeed.
Much More Fun to stay with another FASHIONISTA than a HOTEL!
PLUS, names of BOOKSHOPS would be HELPFUL as well.
I have given an ASSIGNMENT!
ANYONE up for it?
Click on ALYSON’s BLOG below.
Leave her a COMMENT and tell her WHO sent YOU!
http://thatsnotmyage.com
LA CONTESSA HAVING A PONDER!
AT CHARTWELL.
CHARTWELL……………..long trip out to the countryside in KENT but OH MY!I felt I had found MY HOME away from HOME!
MAGICAL setting………..MAGICAL PONDS……….MAGICAL geese with baby goslings!We made a little video lets see if I can put that in here!
CHARTWELL, was the country home of MISTER WINSTON CHURCHILL.He purchased it for the view of Kent.I do believe in the distance is FRANCE!One must cross the CHANNEL first.It is not a GRAND BIG HOME and maybe that is why I liked it SO much.I LOVED THE DINNING ROOM which had low ceilings and beautiful arched windows!Mister Churchill was given an Orange Cat later in life named JOCK.To this day an ORANGE CAT is ALWAYS in RESIDENCE at CHARTWELL that was in the WILL.I did not have a SIGHTING of TODAYS JOCK,but just knowing he was there was heart warming to me as YOU all know I have an ORANGE CAT named THEODORE!
The property was BEYOND breathtaking……..large PONDS or LAKES and the Garden with it’s orchard and vegetable garden and brick walls was right out of a movie!
SEE MY MOVIE BELOW!!!!!!!!!!
MOVIE ADDED THANKS TO MY COMPUTER WIZARDRESS THE MAGICAL BLOGGING 911!
LA CONTESSA at CHARTWELL……………
LOOK AT THOSE CLOUDS!
LOOK LIKE COTTON BALLS!
WE DONOT HAVE THESE IN CALIFORNIA!
Do you UNDERSTAND Me NOW?
It was a DREAM property.
The story goes that Winston was NOT very good with Finances and in his later years did not have much money!A few friends came together and bought CHARTWELL from him so he could have the cash to live on and live there rent FREE until his last breath……….
I walked to Kensington Palace once ( I was told it was a 10 minute walk from our hotel!) and than took a taxi another day as there was an exhibit I wanted to see.IT WAS MORE LIKE 20 MINUTES for ME!There was a time FACTOR involved.
No Luck either time getting into the exhibit,but this was worth the TAXI ride!
I get in my cab and he tells me it is his second trip to the PALACE that day!He had had a phone order earlier in the day which are unusual……….he had picked up PRINCESS MICHAEL OF KENT!I wanted to know if she had sat EXACTLY where I was sitting!I was so excited as I had met her years ago in SAN FRANCISCO at the FALL ANTIQUE SHOW……..maybe a few of you remember that BLOG POST where they ran out of books and she told me to go on line and send to the palace!!!!!(Well, I did and she returned the book my ROYAL MAIL!)
YOU COULD HAVE HEARD MY SHRIEK OF DELIGHT!Not only the book but a signed photo of the two of us and a letter!
Anyway, MY TAXI MAN and THE PRINCESS had to wait to exit the PALACE because HARRY was arriving with his entourage!!The next DAY I SPIED OBAMA with HARRY at KENSINGTON PALACE on INSTAGRAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!YOUR CONTESSA is traveling in the RIGHT CIRCLES these DAYS!
BELOW THE GATES…………..which back up to HYDE PARK.Where I got LOST and couldn’t find my way OUT!
I think I better STOP here as this is a LONG POST for me.
I have MORE to share from the CHELSEA GARDEN SHOW and a few of MY FAVORITE GARDENS……….
I will try and POP them OUT at GREAT SPEED Before I forget TOO MUCH.
Just know I had a MARVELOUS TRIP.
The DOG, CAT and PIG SURVIVED without me but upon my return the PIG did not leave my side ALL DAY!
I WAS MISSED!
BY THE ITALIAN TOO!
LUCKY ME!
HO FINITO!
FOR NOW!
Sandra Sallin says
Love, love, love it all. We may not have the British clouds but we do have you! Love all of your outfits and have no idea how you packed all of those in one suitcase without going WAY over weight. Loved your stories about Chartwell. I know you have someone who can build you a folly! Keep those stories coming. Love them.
LA CONTESSA says
YOUR SOUVENIR Is wrapped and in the MAIL TODAY!
I had to READ them FIRST!
THE LUGGAGE…….I did DARN GOOD!Brought too many warm socks as I thought I would run into some rain and one TOP I didNOT wear!Otherwise, everything was USED.
The Bryn Walker stuff is perfect as it all goes with each other………………
Then there are the CAFTANS from YUME that work with leggings for me…………
I gave myself an A PLUS on PACKING!
XX
Loree says
Oh how I miss London. It looks like you had a really good time. They call Kent ‘the garden of England’ – except to me it seems like all England is a garden. You can tell I come from an arid country.
I’ve been in a bit of a funk lately and have been having a hard time sitting down to write about happy things. Your post cheered me up so maybe I’ll have something up soon.
How sweet, Theodore would fit in perfectly at Chartwell.
LA CONTESSA says
YES!
They did TELL us that……..KENT is the garden of ENGLAND!LUSH and GREEN and loads of SHEEP!My idea of HEAVEN…………..funny our TOUR GUIDE did not like the country as there would be no one to talk too, she said!She prefers the CITY.I would think the country would have a village within reach……..but maybe NOT!THE ITALIAN ALWAYS were chatting in the COUNTRY VILLAGE or NO VILLAGE!GUess that is what stands out in my mind………….
YES, MASTER THEODORE would be a HAPPY CAT at CHARTWELL………….I caught him yesterday on the kitchen counter licking the butter I had left out!!!
XX
Taste of France says
This is wonderful. I have been enjoying your high jinks on IG. Marvelous photos. Everything looks so lush. I do think, however, that the other Elizabeth (i.e., HRH) and Kate missed out on a lot of fun by not having you over for tea.
LA CONTESSA says
YOU THINK SO!!!!!!!!!
I THINK They would have had a GOOD LAUGH……………..TOO!!.
I learned something interesting about THE QUEEN she use to drive herself from one home to the next more on that in my next POST!
THAT QUEEN was in MANCHESTER the day after the bombings visiting the ones in the hospital and the response teams!!!!!!!!!!GODDA LOVE THAT at 91 years of age!!!!!!!
XX
Lisa says
I love seeing your take on this beautiful city and this beautiful country! As a woman who walks her boy to school every day, in his uniform, having conversations, it made me realise I take this very lovely quotidian privilege for granted. I’ve always said London feel just a bit more civilised than New York (which is also dear to my heart)… all the parks and flowers and the breathtaking architecture help.
I’m so pleased you like the ring; it really was made for you, in all of its Liz Taylor splendour.
I so thoroughly enjoyed my evening with you, and wish there had been time for another. Next time! Or I will come perch in your Californian garden one day, which I would LOVE to see. You really slot right in here in London, so we’ll be waiting for you to return. xxx
Mithra Ballesteros says
So glad you two got to hang out! Now I’d like to propose that Lisa and I coordinate our trips to your garden, Elizabeth. California is calling to me!!
LA CONTESSA says
I would LOVE for you to come visit ME and THE ITALIAN!
I will be waiting ENCRUSTED IN JEWELS…………of VARYING sizes!!!!
Mithra, you know you are WELCOME as well………..
I do not think THE ITALIAN will let me OUT of his SIGHT for awhile again…………………
SO,YOU ALL DROP IN HERE!
XX
Stella Martin says
What a tremendous trip. Your Italian is top notch when it comes to choosing the perfect gift!!!
LA CONTESSA says
He did have DIRECTION with an email that was FORWARDED On to him WAY back in the FALL!!!!!!!What amazes me is HE PAID ATTENTION!!!!
He is VERY good with PRESENTATION AS WELL…………………the glass he selected for my AIRBORNNE Tablet COCKTAIL was EXQUISITE the other night!!!!
Makes the DRINK SO MUCH BETTER!!!!
XX
Jennifer says
Such fun hearing about and seeing some of your wonderful adventures in England. I particularly liked your description of Chartwell, and the little known facts of the orange cat being permanently around and the fact that his friends bought the property for Churchill to live out his life. Keep your stories going!
D. A. Wolf says
What an incredible trip you had! So many amazing sites, and even better, so many amazing people you got to meet! And oooooooh, that rock you’re wearing is major…. extraordinary!
That folly idea for tbe Italian… good one. Work on him.
Penelope Bianchi says
Absolutely brilliant post! You simply have to tell us where you got that pink shift!! It is heaven!
And so are you!!!
LA CONTESSA says
ON IT!!!!!
XX
LA CONTESSA says
CAFTANS come from the land of CYPRESS!!!!!!!
YUMEWORLD on INSTAGRAM.
I buy the MENS!
The pink is for a MAN the length is PERFECTO PER ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YOU would be a small is my guess but send message to CANDY and she will tell you.
LOVELY FABRIC………….the COLORS are OUT of this WORLD!
Just ordered an EGGPLANT colored CAFTAN………..how many DO I REALLY NEED??!!!!
XX
The MD from London says
You enriched the tour by your wit, your beauty, your style and your presence! So glad to have met you!
LA CONTESSA says
SO, GLAD to have MET YOU TWO!!!!!!!!
How are THE CATS?
Are you still in a FOG……….I AM.STill “PRETENDING” I’m there but I hear the RAIN has arrived!I went out SUNDAY and bought MORE PLANTS with THE ITALIAN………..told him I GOTTA KEEP GOING!!!!!!!!!!!He says don’t you already have those I say YES, BUT WE NEED MORE!!!!!!MORE IS MORE!!!!!!!!
CIAO, thanks for being here!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
There is an x in there! Almost correct spelling!
Catherine says
I was so happy to meet you – your joy and spirit for life is inspiring and what a fun time we had 🙂 your photographs are excellent and I know you’re not shy of asking people to take photographs!! England welcomes you back with open arms, Contessa xx
LA CONTESSA says
WE gotta DO what WE GOTTA DO!!!!!!!!!
When in England after 37 years and meeting up with EXTRAORDINARY BLOGGERS at EXTRAORDINARY destinations ONE MUST CAPTURE THE MOMENT in TIME!
ASK AWAY…………..most of the time they will want you to take their photo SO you have done them a FAVOR!I am LOVING ALL THE PHOTOS OF YOU on IG and your BLOG in your CASHMERE PRODUCT’s !!!!
XX
Jacqueline says
Oh Elizabeth, I’m so glad you had a wonderful time …. I have lived just outside London all my life and am very proud of it !! You had lovely weather too ….. if you were here today you wouldn’t believe it …. strong winds and lashing rain that hasbattered down my roses !!
I now look forward to seeing more of your travels here in the UK. XXXX
LA CONTESSA says
WE were SO LUCKY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
NOT A DROP of rain by day only a THUNDER STORM at night in RYE……………
MY HAT was CONSTANTLY In USE!!!!!!!!
WHY was I the only one in a HAT at CHELSEA??!!!!
I thought YOU ALL wear HATS!!!!!!!
XX
Catherine says
Lucky you is right!!! Thank you so much for a great post and photos that are absolutely supercalifragilisticecpialidocious!!! I’m such a fangirl of Alyson Walsh!! I can’t believe you met her!!!!!!! Off to work now!!!!
LA CONTESSA says
I DID!!!!!!!!
AND I cannot BELIEVE you can spell that WORD!!!!!!!!SUPER…………….!!!!
She is LOVELY!YOU will have to go to NEW YORK for her book signing!!!!
TIME OFF!!!!!!
XX
Lillian Plummer says
Marvellous post, love all the pics and details. So much to do and see! England in summer is special. Not surprised Banksy missed you and wouldn’t leave your side, bless his heart and yours dear Contessa. xx
Leigh Higgins says
An absolutely delightful post about your wonderful trip! Loved the pictures and descriptions can’t wait to hear more about your trip, which was perfect for your vacation. I think you need a Folly, too.
Have a great day!
Leigh
Sheila from the Lincheon says
What a wonderful trip and post about the places you visited. Look forward to more…glad you enjoyed England. Great pictures. I would go back in a minute.
LA CONTESSA says
ME TOO!!!!!
XX
Lisa White says
What a fabulous report of your Garden Tour. All the lovely people you met, the gorgeous places you visited, and the stories that brought it all to life. Flowers climbing to the sky, flowers standing together like armies of feather helmet-clad soldiers, flowers on your hat, flower on your dress, and flowers on a table set for tea. Wide blue skies with clouds sailing overhead going nowhere in particular. The long views of English lawns that stretch to horizons in the distance…geese and an orange cat named, Jock! There you were centered beautifully in it all….enchanting!
LA CONTESSA says
YOU NEED TO BE MY GHOST WRITER!!!!!!!!!!!
What a lovely description of all that you saw from my photos!
Let’s chat soon about both our trips!
XX
Bungalow Hostess says
Ooh la is…what a trip!
I love all those garden pictures and the snippets of real life that you have peppered this post with…
Loved how you planned and met these local bloggers which forms a personal connection across our planet.
A folly would be fun…perhaps start with a wall as a backdrop for some spectacular roses…speaking of which I am curious if you fell in love with any new varieties?
So good to read your blog with my morning cafe creme!
XO
LA CONTESSA says
ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS………..a yellow rose!
Do you have that in CANADA?I donot think it is here yet in the USA!I have yet to research……..there was another one……….I wrote it down.WHAT I DONOT NEED is ANOTHER ROSE!
HOWEVER…………….!!!!
XX
Heidi says
What a wonderful, beautiful trip Contessa! I love the school children in uniform! And the fact that the British are not constantly on their phones, how refreshing!!! The restaurant you were hoping “did not get wet” looked absolutely divine. Thank you so much for the gorgeous tea, you absolutely floated into my shop, I am sorry I didn’t get to visit with you! The tea is wonderful, I have been having it every morning. The garden show looked lovely, what a wonderful gift from your Italian! Did you buy any treasures on your trip? I would love to see!! Hope you got some rest, it was nice to see you if only for a moment!
LA CONTESSA says
I did not BUY much………..TEA for friends and a few souvenirs for the BOY who cared for my animals…………..SPACE was a BIG ISSUE.I could only carry so much.I did not GO over weight however!SO, good job ME!
XX
Lola Martínez Iniesta says
WELCOME, BELLÍSIMA CONTESSA.
What can I say?
First, I missed YOUR POSTS A LOT (selfish me ?).
Second, I am happy to know YOU HAD A WONDERFUL TIME in England, meeting WONDERFUL PEOPLE.
Then, I LOOOOOVE THIS POST.
I HAVE ENJOYED YOUR WRITING about what YOU LIKED; YOUR BEAUTIFUL PICS; YOUR DELICIOUS VIDEO DANCING in Sir Winston Churchill’s Gardens…
As for the idea of having a FOLLY built… WOOOOOOW!!! IT WOULD BE PERFECT IN YOUR GARDENS.
I like the word FOLLY (FOLIE in French), but it sounds MUCH BETTER in Italian (CAPRICCIO) and Spanish (CAPRICHO).
One of my favourite paintings is “L’ ESCARPOLETTE” by Fragonard. Well, I think the Three People painted are near a FOLLY as we can see some statues that may be part of one.
PLEASE, CARA, MOOOORE POSTS TELLING YOUR ENGLISH FEELINGS.
¡¡¡GUAAAAAAAPAAAAAA!!!
Besitos,
Lola.
LA CONTESSA says
Lola,
I love that PAINTING TOO!!!!!!!
I will work on THE ITALIAN………..but the FOLLY has been on the list for YEARS NOW…………so a bit of a MIRACLE is NEEDED!Perhaps, all these good comments will HELP!
XX
kim says
Contessa. Love this so much! Wonderful photos. I love the little girl in the hat.You are right, Britain and Brits are a way more civilized and calm society and I would love to live there. Such pretty photos and you look like a flower fitting in with all the beautiful green there! It sounds like a marvelous trip and I am jealous you got to Chartwell! That is on my list. So cool you got to meet Alyson! I am crazy about her blog. I will check out the others as I don’t know them. I love that you do all these things and I am so happy you were feeling better! xoxo Kim
LA CONTESSA says
ALYSON, is a TREAT!
Trying to get her to come WEST for a book signing……..if she does you can HELP with THAT OPERATION LONDON STYLE GAL!
XX
Kathy L says
Looks like you had a splendid time in London and the countryside. I can’t wait to hear more about your trip and the Chelsea Garden Show in your next post.
PS: I love all of your stylish ensembles.
1010ParkPlace says
What a fabulous trip you had! I’m envious you were able to meet several of our beloved bloggers. I’m planning a trip to Italy in the fall so if you can think of anyone in Tuscany I should contact, please let me know. Thank you for posting the delightful video and for giving us an inside tour! Brenda
PS: Isn’t it nice to be missed?
LA CONTESSA says
Do you have a tour guide set up?I have FRIENDS IN THE BUSINESS!!!!!!AMERICANS who have lived over there more than half their lives!Let me know if you want emails……….they would also be helpful telling you what you can accomplish in a day etc……….
YOU MUST EAT GELATO DAILY!
YOU must have a COFFEE at THE BAR DAILY………..
YOU MUST GO to THE FARMERS MARKET TO SEE……………if not buy!
YOU MUST GO to SAN MINIATO AL MONTE as I was married there 31 years ago in the TOP ALTER!
I shall STOP HERE for NOW!
XX
Christine G says
That’s interesting about cell phone use. When I traveled to London in the 90s on business, just as mobile phones first came into use, all I saw on the street were people on their phones. The Brits loved their new gadget then!! Perhaps they’ve grown weary of them.
Visited again in 2014 and was most astounded by the traffic. Crowded roads everywhere. But all this vanishes under the beauty and history of the city. London is a wonderful city. Regent Park is my favorite place.
LA CONTESSA says
LOADS OF TRAFFIC!!!!!!!!
I did not make it to REGENT PARK…………..MUST GO BACK!
I’m sure the phones are there but the bit I was out and about I notice very few where as were I live my GOSH ALL HEADS DOWN !I can even include myself on THAT from time to time!XX
Our French Oasis says
I am glad you had such a fantastic trip and you have certainly made me homesick! All the things I love most about England and all the places that were my old stomping grounds, I worked in Knightsbridge. Totally envious you got to visit Chelsea, I had to make do with watching on tv. But what intrigues me most is that you don’t get clouds like this in California, do please explain more, aren’t these fluffy white clouds that never produce rain but merely decorate the sky totally normal?
LA CONTESSA says
YES, we have white clouds……….just MORE FLAT.NOT as PUFFY and as MANY…………we have fewer with LESS STYLE!!!!!!!!!!!
Thought of you when they told me the Chanel was “OVER THERE!”I wish I could have POPPED across just was not meant to be……….we have the rest of our lives and you have a few children to attend to at the moment!Perhaps,I will make my GRAND APPEARANCE when they have left the NEST!!!I ADORE EUROPE…………….it SPEAKS to me.XX
Our French Oasis says
Ha ha, yes both England and France are certainly the land of fluffy white clouds!! Our youngest is only ten, hope we don’t have to wait that long!!! Our door is open any time! xxx
Lindsay says
I LOVE this post!! Your trip look absolutely beautiful and magical! My favorite is the video of you frolicking in the field! Glad you had such a marvelous time and are home safe!
XOOX
LA CONTESSA says
That was an impromptu moment!
XX
Susan B. says
It looks like an absolutely marvelous trip! Your movie cracked me up! One of these years I’m going to be there for the Chelsea flower show. Just have to plan it…
BTW, I’m in LA and will check in with Alyson. She’s welcome to stay with us, if she doesn’t mind the dogs…
LA CONTESSA says
I ALREADY SUGGESTED YOU!!!!!!!
WERE YOUR EARS BURNING!!!!!!!!
Dogs will be nothing after our PIG!!!!!!!!
The MOVIE made me laugh as well………….at first I thought to dump it but the more I watched it the MORE I THOUGHT IT’s ME IT IS SO REAL!!!!
XX
Anita Rivera says
Stunning, whimsical, fabulous are YOU!!!!! What a trip, and to meet Catherine as well! WHAT A DOUBLE TREAT! You were made for this dearest. You were. LOVE YA!
Enid says
What an absolutely fabulous post. I followed your trip on Instagram including the movie but this fleshed it out with stories and more pictures. I LOVE Chartwell. How beautiful. You had great wardrobe for the whole trip. How many suitcases did you take? You were stunning everyday. So sweet that Banksy wouldn’t leave your side. I adore all his piggieness!
LA CONTESSA says
JUST ONE SUITCASE medium size……………
THANK YOU for POPPING OVER from INSTAGRAM………….did you subscribe?
Hope so up TOP Home page on LEFT!
Will do more POSTS on ENGLAND…………….as I’m DEFINITELY NOT DONE with HER yet!
XX
Gail says
So beautiful! Definitely a trip of a lifetime!
LA CONTESSA says
I think YOUR RIGHT!
XX
Debbie says
YOU are an English rose… divine photos AND writing…wondering if you visited the Duchess of Devonshire : ) She (and the Duke) are in The Time Seekers (with a spritz of fiction), perhaps you saw the T&C article about her… a long time ago, I was in London on a school trip. I remember putting a bottle of white wine out the hotel window on a snowy ledge, quite daring for being only 16. Would love to return one day and do the same with a bottle of wine : )
Looking forward to more photos and stories… scrumptious!!
LA CONTESSA says
I so wanted to to GO To the DUCHESSES ancestral home CHATSWORTH but it was too far out I was told!I read a book written by her before my trip on the rooms in the home she helped restore and decorate………..The DUCHESS and I would have made SWELL BUDS!Animal Lovers stacks of books every where in her office…………..Feeding chickens in BALL GOWNS!Collecting HENS as you know I owned a store called HEN HOUSE!
THE TIME SEEKERS IS SITTING RIGHT HERE!!!!
AND I have TIME to READ NOW!
THANK YOU!
XX
Barbara Chapman ~ French Ethereal says
What a lovely trip! How do you meet all these celebrated people? I would have loved to meet Princess Michael of Kent, too. I met Sarah Ferguson once at a Macy’s Wedgwood show, where she was their spokesperson. This was back in 2000, I think. A friend and I went and listened to her talk about Wedgwood china, bought some for her to sign (***interesting side note… to sign china, she used a pen with gold ink and loosen the glaze on the china with vodka. The ink will sink under the glaze then, after a piece is signed, it takes about a month or two for it to re-solidify and become hard again. Do Not Wash during this time! I ruined one piece… 🙁 ), and gave her a note I’d written thanking her for visiting. Several months later, I received a note back written by her lady-in-waiting! Loved receiving it!!!
So glad you got to go and visit some gardens. Pinned several photos out on my Pinterest boards for you. Looking forward to hearing more about your trip with the next updates,
Barb 🙂
LA CONTESSA says
The same way you did by attending a BOOK SIGNING!!!A FUNCTION basically!
THAT is VERY INTERESTING about the GOLD PEN……………..
SO, kind of them to respond…………….
THANK YOU for sharing your story!!!!
XX
PPP says
Ma Chere Contessa,
So pleased you went on your fabulous trip to London looking and feeling healthy and happy!
Only you would be dressed perfectly appropriate for each lovely daily adventure. Loved you in your beautiful venues.
The gardens were lush. The buildings so regally British. Those children dressed for school so classic.
Ahh Churchill”s Chartwell.
Enjoyed your story about Winston living there at the end of his days…great tale.
Another excellent blog. The video was a nice NEW touch…more please!
Adieu
LA CONTESSA says
THE PACK wasNOT so easy when you saw RAIN in the forecast three days prior……….
Than ONE day before ALL SUNNY!!!!!SO, I left the rain boots behind and said JUST DEAL WITH IT upon getting there…….meaning I would purchase if need be!I think leaving my LEOPARD rain boots behind brought me GOOD LUCK!We had BEAUTIFUL WEATHER……….
CHARTWELL……………..and CHURCHILL = PERFECTION!
XX
debra@5th and state says
dearest contessa, YOU are a walking, spinning, dancing party on two feet! what a joyous experience you had and loved the share, wow!
xoxo
debra
i too want a folly, and absolutely folly mad!
LA CONTESSA says
ADD that to THE LIST!
XX
Susie Craig says
You brought back such gorgeous memories for me. I loved seeing you looking perfect in your hat and flowers, just right for Chelsea and Chartwell which I agree is absolutely to die for. I do think you should have bought that wall but go for the folly.
Love reading your stories,
LA CONTESSA says
THE WALL IS THE FOLLY……..but THE ITALIAN is not BIG on BRICK as we live in EARTHQUAKE COUNTRY!!!He does not GET if his hard WORK CRUMBLES EVEN BETTER………..I will keep pestering!!!!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
Hi ho! Fantastic posts……omilord! That is the same folly I have wanted for years! It works at your house better! I know who makes it! a store here has it in stock! the window, the wall……I think the whole thing….maybe it is on sale!
Brava! You were the chicest thing I have ever seen in my very long life! I need to know about those dresses……the flower on the dress 2/3 the way down…..a triumph if ever I have seen one!!!
XXOO
Your fan.
LA CONTESSA says
OF COURSE, YOU know where my FOLLY is in STOCK!!!!!!!!!!
It is a company who makes them………SO……..BINGO!
As for that FLOWER………..want one?
Check your mailbox soon!!!!
XX
That's Not My Age says
It was so good to meet you! And I’m so pleased you had a wonderful trip – it’s been raining ever since you left. Please come back soon, London has not seen enough of you! Love the video and the photos of all you garden visits, England suits you. Thanks so much for the mention and here’s hoping I can go west on my next book tour…
LA CONTESSA says
Rain RAIN go AWAY…………come again ANOTHER DAY!!!!!
HOW DID WE GET SO LUCKY?
The video was pretty FUNNY……………I had wanted to do a little TWIRL…………although many on instagram thought I was going to do a CARTWHEEL!!!!!
When the book comes OUT I think WE have you covered from the TOP of the STATE to the BOTTOM in CALIFORNIA!!
Until next time!
XX
Nita Wright says
Simply beautiful! My favorite was seeing your wardrobe and the adorable children walking to school, I thought that was only in the movies:) And perfect weather too!!! Xoxo
Penelope Bianchi says
Would “that’s not my age” want to come to Santa Barbara for a book signing? I guess I better read the book first…….but if you loved it………..
XXOO
LA CONTESSA says
YES!!!!!!!!!!
FOR SURE…………..
GO check your local bookshop see if they have STYLE FOREVER!
XX
Jennifer says
It looked like the most ama I got trip Elizabeth! Bravo to your GP for surprising you with this trip. I see you living in a castle, quite easily. Xx
Penelope Bianchi says
Your spinning (which I adored!) reminded me of our dearest Ellie who asked us to spin! I did!
And so did you! Sweet Ellie! Long may she live in our spinning!
LA CONTESSA says
FABULOUS TRIP………..GENEROUS GIFT……….and YES,I bet OUR ELLIE saw ME TWIRLING!!!!!!!!!!!!XX
reck n ruin says
Just sensational ?? England was so privileged to have you stay.. and your visits into the beautiful English country side was a perfect antedote to your city highlights.. so wished I could have tapped you on the shoulder and presented you with your long awaited portrait. So pleased you are home safe with the Italian by your side.. he sure must have missed such a beauty… x
LA CONTESSA says
NOW, that would have been the PUDDING on THE CAKE!!!!!!!!!
WE must KEEP things to LOOK FORWARD TOO!!!!!!
YOUR MINE…………XX
Lee says
Lovely pictures Elizabeth, so cute about Banksy missing you. Love your spunk and sense of adventure! xxoo
elizabeth@pineconesandacornsblog says
Elizabeth,
I loved following along with you on Instagram! I felt as if I were walking along side you. London is a favorite place of mine to visit. I am also very fond of the Cottswolds, The Lake District, etc. I LOVE walking and find the English countryside magical.
I have yet to make it to the Chelsea garden show but I think I will put it on my list.
You MUST have a folly! I cannot wait to see yours. The pig, cat and dog will love it as well.
Barbara Rogerson says
I’m glad you enjoyed your trip to my country and especially in good weather and yes we do have nice dry and warm weather as well as howling wind and torrential rain at times!! We were away on the North Norfolk coast when you were here (just 2 1/2 hours north of London) and the weather was gorgeous. Had some rough weather since returning home though as you saw on my blog. However a warm dry spell is forecast for the coming weeks.
I’m glad you got to visit some of my favourite haunts, particularly the National Trust places. Have to say that my roses are as good as the ones you saw at Chelsea!! Thanks for your visit and comment.
Ellie's friend from Canada says
Not sure why my post isn’t posted! Just a note to say I love reading about your trip!
So beautiful…And I vote for the folly!
Welcome home!
LA CONTESSA says
IT is POSTED NOW!
YOU Know that mail between CANADA and CALIFORNIA sometimes!!!!!!!!
IT never arrived before this……..XX
Karen Persson says
Loved, loved, loved the tales of your UK trip! I had to wait till today to finish reading it as I’ve been soooooo busy the past week. I loved every word of your adventures. You’re such a delight with your writing and you really make a person feel like they’re part of the adventure!
Btw, how’s your health doing?
Love, Karenxox
Cara says
I’m so glad to have found you, through The Gardener’s Cottage. Another woman in my age cohort following a vegan and GF diet! YAY!
We love Chartwell & I’m glad you did, too. Other NT properties we always visit when we get to England are Ightham Mote (saved by an American), Bateman’s (Kipling’s house) and Standen, a lovely Arts & Crafts house.
We love the properties that are human scale– one can imagine oneself enjoying living there. Places like Petworth are impressive, and the kitchens are amazing, but the houses are just too grand and huge.
You’re making me want to go back to England for our next vacation in August!
Cara in S. FL
LA CONTESSA says
GO!
England is SO SO BEAUTIFUL……………
HAPPY YOU FOUND ME!I must TELL JANET!
XX
Anita @ Vue at Jindivick says
Hello Bella,
Home a week now and FINALLY catching up with your blog.
Elizabeth, I particularly liked your photos from Chartwell.
I’ve not visited Winston’s house, but will definitely do next time.
Like you, I adore London.
Neat xx
LA CONTESSA says
CHARTWELL, is a MUST and YOU MUST FIND JOCK the ORANGE CAT!
Tamera Beardsley says
You are absolutely Amazing my friend! I am in awe of you and your travels! Thank you ever so much for sharing darling!!
xoxo
Tamera