NYE EVE… And what I learned from the Italians

Posted on December 30, 2013 by Gigi in My Life, Thoughts, Travel 1 Comment

On this “NYE” eve, like most of us I can’t help but to reflect on the past year. There were highs; my son’s acceptance to SYA Italy, our family trip to Thailand, my annual girls ski trip to Colorado, my launch of 54 Couture Portraiture, and my collaboration with a fellow artist forming PS Couture. There were lows as well; my husband’s stroke, my brother-n-law’s untimely death, breast cancer attacked my family like a stealth bomber, absence of a close friendship, and the loss of an unborn child. My observation in all of this is that life is constantly changing and waits for no one. The good and the bad have to be embraced, cherish the good and try and make sense of the bad.

mi familia

The past week I was in Italy with my family, a first for us celebrating Christmas away, while there I did a lot of people watching and observed the italians zeal for life. They smoke and drink with abandonment, savor their meals, upon meeting men kiss one another, and all the women from baby girls to 80 plus year-olds are “dressed”. The women my age are not trying to emulate their daughters, they are sporting silver hair, wearing body conscious clothes and always so effortlessly chic. I loved seeing people riding bikes, fully dressed in street clothes, going about their day.

Spanish Steps

It was refreshing not to see Starbucks. Yes. I do love Starbucks and have been known on more than one occasion to even cruise through a drive-thru. Here you did not see people walking around with paper cups, if you have a coffee or tea your are sitting in a cafe with a “real” cup and saucer, and oh none of this “tall”, “grande” and “venti” business, everything is served in a regular cup. The culture does not seem driven by convenience, no taking food away in containers and meals with your family are important.

Cafe

What I learned from the Italians:

1. If I don’t have time to sit downn and drink my tea or coffee–I don’t need it.

2. No more wearing my “workout” clothes as street wear- finish working out and get dressed-enough said.

3. Prepare more meals at home, with the kids being away it is so easy to just pick something up.

4. Spend more time with family.

5. Continue to find joy in simple things ie. having fresh flowers just because…

flowers are everywhere in Italy…these were sold from the back of a truck

6. Having friends over just because–the art of home entertaining seems lost-

7. Make more rituals-make your bath like a spa-why not?

love my bathtub…

8. Ride your bike for transportation in your regular clothes-and put your groceries in the bike basket–get rid of the Costco card and stop buying thngs in bulk…

9. Laugh out loud often- even if for no reason

10. And lastly…Drink more red wine or juice or kumbucha…water–just drink

10.5 Yes…a bidet

11. Say “Ciao” “Grazie” and ” Allora”

Ciao,

XOXO,

GIGI

Gigi in Rome

Christmas and Thereafter

Posted on December 27, 2013 by Gigi in Family, Italy, My Life, Travel Comments Off

mi familia

The days are going by so fast and blending into each other. We have been in Italy just enough time to start adjusting to the time only to have to start packing for our trip home. A lot of bonding goes on when you are in a country where little english is spoken and there are none of the normal distractions. No phone calls, unreliable wifi most of the time, no nada, just each other, talking about everything from the future, their goals and dreams to what retirement looks like for us.

family

You bring these children into the world, but as parents we lay the foundation and express our wants and desires for them, but ultimately it is up to them to make it happen and stay on task. There is not enough “micro managing”,” helicopter mommy-ing” in the world that can make these young adults do something that they don’t really want to do. I’m sure there are many who may not agree with this, but in my 54 years here on the planet, 23 of these years being a parent and countless years observing my friends, family and numerous acquaintances raise kids, you have to just hope for the best and set the foundation, because there are no guarantees or sure set paths or formulas.

family

On this trip of no distractions we talked about everything like, “Yes you are on a nice trip doing “nice” things, but what are your going to do in your life so you too can travel?’ or “What colleges are you interested in based on your GPA?” or “How long to you plan to live in NYC on your salary?”

As I sat across from my children, I could not help but to reflect on how my family has grown up so quckly. We were blessed that everything worked out and we were able to be together. This trip made me realize how much I miss my children and the dynamics of being together as a family. I’m happy that they are both so independant but sad that they are both so far away.

This has been an unforgettable trip full of special memories. Tomorrow is our last day together, and we will all go our seperate ways hopefully to be reunited in the summer.

family

Xoxo,

Gigi

Gigi in Rome

MECCA-Outlet Shopping in Florence

Posted on December 25, 2013 by Gigi in Italy, Shopping, Travel Comments Off

December 23rd Monday

Today our daughter Amani arrived, my son did not know she was coming, we kept it a secret. Initially she was not going to be able to join us and then everything worked out-so we were able to spend Christmas together.

After a late breakfast we ventured out to “Space” the Prada factory store, I love Prada and Mui Mui, so I was excited at the thought of going to “Mecca”.

Prada Outlet

So after about an hour or so of riding through the Tuscany hills, we reached our destination. The parking lot was full, and lots of shoppers mostly foreigners were leaving with large shopping bags, which got my heart rate up a bit at the thought of the anticipated “deals”. The “space” was the size of a small department store, everything was neat and organized and plenty of sales people dressed in black ready to help. Upon entering you were handed a number which I later learned was the number you gave the salesperson who took the items you wanted to purchase to the counter. Knowing that the dollar is not so strong ie. 100 euro equals 137. dollars, so that item that is 200 euros will set you back 274. dollars, kept me with my phone calculator in hand. The best buys were in the shoe department, they had a 100 euro section,in which most of the shoes were a few seasons behind.

prada outlet

(btw, sorry about the poor picture quality, but they did not allow pics, so I had to take these on the down low.)

I tried on a few shoes, but many of them were similar to shoes I already have–how many animal print shoes does one really need? They had a lot of pretty flats, but I have not worn any of the Prada flats I picked up a few years back, the rest were really “out” there even for me ie. odd shapes etc.. I stumbled upon this charcoal grey suede lace up bootie, which was finished with a glitter heel that I liked, and they were in the discount section.

Mui Mui bootie

Amani settled on a classic nude patent pump, that she was very happy with.

Amani’s shoes

Next on to the purses, everything started at 650 euros ie. 900. us, so for me that is still a nice piece of change, so I moved on from the bags. Now if a person had their heart set on a Prada bag this is a good price, since in the states the same bags start at 1400.

Prada outlet

Prada Outlet

I did pick up a Mui Mui wallet, to replace the one I got 3 years ago that was about 1/2 price.

Mui Mui wallet

Next stop was the Dolce and Gabbana factory outlet, now that was literally a drive-by, everything started at 1000 euros! I love D & G, but the few pieces I have, I lucked up on and got at a really good prices in the states.

D & G outlet

Our last stop was “The Mall“, this outlet is the Rodeo Drive of outlets, YSL, Valentino, Burberry, Prada, Gucci, and Dior just to name a few of the discount boutiques here. By now poor Amani was exhausted and opted to stay in the car and the Reggie-s and I went for it, I was OK browsing until I hit the Valentino store, I love the rock stud collection and was thrilled to find this pair in my size and 40% additional off the outlet price. Yes, its a few seasons back, but I loved it then and I really love it now especially for under 200..

Valentino Rock stud bootie

One thing about fashion, it is an universal language- once the salesperson noticed my fondness for the rock stud collection, she then showed me a animal print rock stud bag, that was also an additional 40% off–had to have it!

Valentino Bag

The other thing about these outlets they are not giving the goods away, and unlike at home where there is always a sale, these stores do major markdowns July and January. I also like that the merchandise is not shop worn, and it appears to be stuff from the actual collections, not something made for the outlets. So if you are “balling” in the designer goods lane, this is the place for you, and if your know your stuff there are deals to be had.

reggie getting his “shoe” on

After all the shopping I was happy to come back to the hotel and take a nice hot bath…

love my bathtub…

My days are all mixed up so I will post when I can…

Xoxo,

Gigi

Firenze

Posted on December 22, 2013 by Gigi in Holiday, Italy, Travel 1 Comment

Cafe

Today after another strong cafe to start the day we walked around Viterbo for a bit, my son needed to pick up a few more gifts for his host family. I love the colors of the buildings, faded ocher, rose, and creamy whites so beautiful, the patina is spectacular. Everything has a history, and is not brand spanking new- all color coordinated like many of the communities back home.

Viterbo

market

Once we were done we went to Reggie’s “home” to say goodbye to his family, once we leave we will not be coming back to Viterbo, we return home on Sunday and Reggie continues on to Paris with classmates for the reminder of the break. Part of the School Year Abroad program is independent travel in small groups within Europe, once you are proficient in the language.

I was excited to see Reggie’s home in the daylight. It is a strange feeling my little son living so far away for 9 months, so of course I wanted to see his abode, meet the guard dog that attacks visitors, see the 100 olive trees, the 3 cats, chat with his grandma and see his room again. He has grown so much in so many ways, not the child who I used to drive around all the time, he now goes to school on his own, has made a host of new friends, budgets his money and stays on top of his school work. Even though he goes to boarding school this is really different, when at home I can get to his school in under 2 hours, growing up is mandatory here.

gate to reggie’s Italian home

Reggie’s host mom, sister and grandma

kitty

We arrived in Firenze just before nightfall, thank goodness for GPS. The holiday decor at the 4 seasons is spectacular…

holiday decor

4 seasons holiday decor

We had a nice dinner at a veggie friendly restaurant in the center of town, although I prefer a vegan diet when at home, when I travel, especially to foreign countries I am a little more accommodating, I admire my vegan friends who are able to make things work worldwide. I just try and politely ask for substitutions and pick and choose things that I’m going to be happy with.

really good salad

candle light dinner

Firenze Street

Tomorrow a big surprise for my son, can’t wait– until then Xoxo, Gigi

Gigi & family

Ciao Bella…

Posted on December 21, 2013 by Gigi in Italy, Travel 1 Comment

viterbo fountain

Well we arrived in Italy, rented a car a drove a couple of hours to Viterbo, the little town that has been my son’s home for the past few months. His host family greeted us and served a delicious vegetarian dinner – fresh pasta, with mushrooms, and an assortment of other goodies. They live on an olive orchard a few miles outside of the town, it was night when we when arrived so we could not see much, but we had some of the olive oil that they made which was a far cry from the Trader Joe’s variety. We exchanged lots of smiles with Reggie communicating for the both of us. Reggie showed us his room and his italian mom and I shared our dismay with Reggie’s messy room- no words needed. We were impressed with Reggie’s command of italian and his maturity, it is amazing what can happen in a few months.

Reggie & his italian family

We checked into Hotel Viterbo, and quickly fell asleep until 1 PM Saturday. Reggie our guide took us into the town, which is a walled city dating back to the 11th century . After a strong coffee we were good to go, within 10 minutes I discovered Milly Shoes, and snapped up these bling trimmed sweeties.

bling bling boots

Milly Shoes

I was amazed at the selection of shops in what I thought was a sleepy little town, much like my beloved Whittier. Between the curvy cobblestoned streets, lined with traditional italian architecture, boutique after boutique what more could I ask for? Next stop was Elisabetta Franchi, a cute store with pretty, sexy, girlie girl clothes at nice price points. I picked up this nude lace gown, that I love–not even worried about where I will wear it, something will come up and I will be ready. Then I saw this cute little “mui mui” inspired bag and could not leave without this, I know I will get lots of use out of it years to come a classic.

the dress…

Gigi & the dress

pretty bag

My guys did their share as well, my poor husband traveled with no jacket, and yes it is the dead of winter, and not our 80 degree Cali winter, so two jackets later he was all set. Reggie shopped for christmas gifts for his host family. I enjoyed people watching, the italians, young and old are so stylish. We ran into a few of Reggie’s classmates, and visited his school and finished the night with dinner at one of the local spots. Our little “boy” told us that he wanted to stay in town and catch up with his friends and that we should go back to the hotel and pick him up later.

I could not help but think about how fortunate our kids are to have traveled so many places, my husband and I both come from humble beginnings, I was in my 30’s the first time I ever traveled to Europe, married with kids no less. Our vacations growing up were going to visit other relatives, and most of the time it was a car trip, I could count the times I had been on a plane on one hand growing up.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.- Saint Augustine

Tomorrow we will leave for Florence.

Reggie’s School SYA

Reggie

viterbo

holiday in viterbo

santa

Hope your holiday is coming together, mine will certainly be different than any other that I have experienced.

Ciao Xoxo

Gigi

Gigi in Viterbo

GIGI’S LIST

Posted on December 16, 2013 by Gigi in Holiday Comments Off

holiday

At my age, it’s not baubles and glittery trinkets I desire anymore, nor the bags, well maybe a pair of louboutins occasionally, I crave longevity, well-being, peace and the ability to sprinkle joy wherever I go, leaving a trail of happiness.

This past year presented a few health challenges for my loved ones. I quickly realized how fragile we really are, and how daunting our own mortality is considering how one day can be life changing. Disgusting diseases are a part of life, I wish no one had to suffer, that there was some magic potion that could be a cure all. I try and purpose to follow a clean life style, but I’m not perfect and I know nothing is guaranteed.

This Christmas I will celebrate in a foreign land. For the first time I skipped putting up my holiday decor, it feels a little odd. I realized my ritual of going through my ornaments is what I miss most, I have collected them from our travels over the years and enjoy reliving those moments as I would place them on the tree. The four of us will be celebrating together in Italy making new memories.

I hope your holiday is shaping up nicely. Perhaps you are attending soirees or hosting one of your own. Remember to savor these special times with family and friends.

P.S.

Wear the good “shit” in the daytime–:)

Xoxo,

GIGI

amani & reggie

Nelson Mandela

Posted on December 6, 2013 by Gigi in Web Comments Off

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela

The world loss a great man yesterday. When my family and I traveled to South Africa summer of 2012, we visited Robben Island, the prison where Mandela spent 27 years. I will never forget the chilling account of what life was like, that was told to us by the guides that had been prisoners at some point as well. The strength Nelson Mandela had is an incredible example of the human spirit, we could all learn from his lack of bitterness. He will be missed…

May your weekend be full of gratitude, until Monday

Xoxo,

Gigi

Nelson Mandela

I LOVE YOU- FRIENDS…

Posted on December 5, 2013 by Gigi in My Life Comments Off

quote

In my 54 plus years on the planet, my life has been enriched with a plethora of friends that have had a profound impact on my life. One I have know since 5th grade, one I have met in the past year and others that I have met throughout my adult life. I am the woman I am today because of the phenomenal friends that have been in my life contributing to this crazy, veggie obsessed, light seeking photographer, yogini, real book reader, sometimes obsessive compulsive knitter, chef, swimmer, biker, hiker, dancer, writer–without you all-my life would be so different.

Many of you have shared secrets with me, traveled with me around the world, cried with me and laughed at all my crazy stories, even if you heard them ten times before. Some I chat with daily, sometimes twice a day and others from morning til night, some of you I speak with once every 6 months or so, but regardless we pick up as if it was yesterday. I’ve shared many meals with all of you and shared numerous bottles of champagne. Some of you are “shoe” buds, who are interested in “sole” searching at anytime.

Just as important, I’m happy I’m a friend to many incredible women and in their life as well. We have raised children together, met “new” significant others, shared opinions and differences.

I’m glad you all have embraced me with all of my imperfect parts, my weak moments and my vulnerable ones. I’m not perfect, but you can count on me–I will be there, and if I get “mad” you know it is only for a minute.

I thank all of my friends for making my life complete I love you all…

Tell your friend you love them today…Happy Thursday!

Xoxo,

Gigi

here a just a few of my “friendly” pics…there are so many…

buds

Gigi, Greta & Michelle

Housewives of ASPEN

BACO ladies…

not our mama’s 50…

Our Chariot

Quote

Posted on December 2, 2013 by Gigi in Quotes Comments Off

Thanksgiving

Buddha Quote

The holidays have a way of bringing up all kinds of feelings. So when I stumbled upon this quote, I could not help but to think about how these principles are magnified at this time of year.

“How much you loved”, this one should be simple, but for many it is complicated. Love starts with self, and if you are having a challenge loving the one in the mirror, it is difficult to love others. The holidays have a way of mending hurt souls and bringing families together that may have had strife in the past. This past Thanksgiving all of my family was together, which was truly a miracle, we have certainly had our conflicts, but I was happy that we were all together and to see my 82 year-old mother witness this, was priceless.

“How gently you lived” another one that should be simple, but is complicated as well. Our world is so crazy busy, shopping on Thanksgiving? Really? Trampling over other human beings to buy the latest game system, camping out in front of stores, I don’t get it…Each day I try to appreciate the simplicity of life. I’m not perfect and at times I too can get caught up in the rat race, but the older I get the more control I have over this behavior. I find it is much easier to exhale and move on, and focus on relationships and the things that have no price tag.

The last principle “How gracefully you let go of things that were not meant for you” is the most difficult, because it conflicts with “love”, more than likely the thing you have to let go of was something you at some point loved, perhaps it was a husband, wife, significant other, or a friend. Most times depending on who initiated the “letting go” it can be a time of hurt and pain at the loss of the relationship. The holidays can be subtle reminders of time spent with that person, and depending on where you are in the healing process it can be difficult to be “graceful” when there are memories. I like to think that everything happens for a reason, even if at the time I don’t understand the “why”, but I try and concentrate on the good that came about because of the relationship and how it has contributed to the woman I am today. We have to have boundaries, and to the best of our ability surround ourselves with uplifting positive energy. I’m not saying if someone is not walking around “zen” like all the time, leave them alone, but you can be the catalyst for another person the inspiration for them, but just have a balance.

So my friends, go Love, Live and be Graceful!

Gigi

Happy Monday

Xoxo,

GIGI

What Are You Grateful For?

Posted on November 28, 2013 by Gigi in Holiday 2 Comments

I love Thanksgiving! Growing up my fondest memories are of my mom preparing delicious food all day, I love the “smell” of traditional Thanksgiving dinner, even though many of the items I no longer eat, but the smell is ingrained in my memory and connected to pleasant thoughts. Thanksgiving is a holiday where no gifts are expected, just the company of family and friends.

Our day will cover a lot of miles. I will start off with a workout of sorts, before we embark on our Thanksgiving trek to visit our perspective families. Although I love shopping, I have no desire to go “shopping” at midnight or camp out for electronics. I want to savor the day and spend time with our families, and indulge in tasting tidbits at our various stops. I’m more interested in “shopping” for stronger relationships with my family and friends, spending time listening and strengthening weak bonds.

I am grateful for so much, regardless of what society says I should have or should be or should do…

WHAT I AM GRATEFUL FOR

1. My health- the older I get the more I realize what a blessing good health is.

2. My family- immediate-extended-adopted-and can’t forget my furry four legged ones

3. My home-a safe place to live, mortgage paid, lights, gas and water on

4. Food- organic food in my fridge and clean water-I don’t take this for granted

5. Transportation- a working car, gas to be the road warrior that I am.

6. The ability to forgive-love unconditionally, and admit my wrong doings.

7. the ability to find the good in everyone and be non-judgemental

8. Photography- being able to pursue my passion

9. Being able to be a hunter and gatherer of light and stop and recognize the beauty in everyday things.

10. Smiles and laughter