I left my Heart…(san francisco travel diary)

Posted on September 2, 2014 by Gigi in Travel Comments Off

After spending the summer of my 10th year in San Francisco with my great aunt Sally and uncle Henry, I fell in love with the bay area. The steep hills, crisp sea air, cable cars, shopping, dining, and the international feel of this charming little city, stole my heart.

cable car

Last weekend we celebrated my in-laws 90th birthday. We stayed in San Francisco at Hotel Palomar and had a blast, didn’t even feel the 6.0 earthquake. My mother was traveling with us and even she liked the hotel, and she is not easy to please. This was my second time staying here and I will definitely be coming back. Short list of why I liked Hotel Palomar: the animal print robes coffee tea service and wine tasting in the lobby-complimentary the funky restaurant “Dirty Habit” free wifi interesting room decor i-pod player yoga mat right in the middle of the shopping district underground parking not to expensive-

Hotel Palomar

The lobby

We also had 2 fabulous meals…I’m paying for it now between Kauai and San Francisco I am on my “training” diet, but it was worth it! We had a really delicious lunch at A16 an Italian spot that was fab. Everything was so fresh and they were very accommodating with taking the meat out of certain dishes, which is always nice.Sunday we had dinner at Dosa, really good modern indian food–I had a watermelon salad that was incredible.

Dosa

We shopped for school stuff for Reggie, and walked all over downtown, stopping off in the park to catch some music.

Here are some pics from the weekend- enjoy! Xoxo, Gigi

The cutest 90 year-old couple I know…

My mom and sister-n-law Paula

Gigi and sister-n-laws

Amani & Reggie

The cousins

bay bridge

Gigi & Hubby

Amani & Daddy

Mr. and Mrs.RS

START SUBTRACTING…

Posted on July 10, 2014 by Gigi in Aging, My Closet, Well-Being 7 Comments

Quote

Came across this quote today, and really thought about how it applies to my life. For me the message was SIMPLIFY! “Start Subtracting”, get rid of the junk that is taking up space, both physically and mentally.

In a couple of weeks I will celebrate my 25th wedding anniversary and my 55th birthday, I really wanted to have a celebration/party of some sort, but as I began to plan it started to feel like a heavy weight was hanging over me. Some of my dearest friends were going to be traveling on the date I selected so that was a bummer. I received an invitation from another friend for a birthday party dinner cruise on the same day. My guest list was growing and getting a bit out of control, since it was going to be a birthday/anniversary celebration, there are so many that have touched our lives that I wanted to include, so my little house party was becoming an “event”. My day to day life right now is pretty crazy, with all the driving I’m doing taking my son to all of his obligations, I had no time to properly plan anything, so I made the decision not to have a grand celebration and I feel great. I have no idea what I am going to do, other than it will be something simple, meaningful and intimate.

Normally this time of year I make my rounds to all the mid summer sales scoring deeply discounted treats, perhaps I’m maturing or I’m questioning how much stuff does one person need, but for some reason the desire is not there. A few months ago I downloaded this app Stylebook, basically it is a closet organizer that keeps track of your “stuff”. You take pics of your items and put them in categories etc., by doing this I discovered how much stuff I have accumulated and that I need nada, matter of fact I have been getting rid of stuff and focusing on my lifestyle and what really serves me…photographer most days, and for shoots I wear black, and of course I need my workout clothes, jeans, and I love dresses for when I go out and pretty shoes, the rest I don’t need anymore. I have not worked in an office environment in over 5 years, so why do I have suits and work pumps taking up space? Why do I have things from 20 + years ago? Why do I have shoes that hurt, life is to short to walk around in shoes that cause pain.

Gigi

Once good thing about driving all over southern Cali everyday, is I am able to go to the gym in between appointments, perhaps I will “subtract” a few pounds, which is always good. I find the older I get, working out is not an option, and the mental peace I get from my yoga practice is priceless. I am able to clear my mind, subtracting distracting thoughts and focusing on the future, working on my goals, personal and professional.

The next area I need to attack is being “connected” 24/7. Start having “time outs” from my i phone, i pad, laptop, kindle, fitbit, i pod, facebook, instagram, pinterest, and any other devices I may have forgot–so much time. The mystery of being unavailable is gone…I remember the days of a “dial” phone, and no call waiting and only a couple of area codes and how can we ever forget the “busy” signal? Yes, time to unplug a bit.

So think about subtracting “junk” from your life, once you start it is not that difficult, the letting go is so empowering!

Gigi

Happy Thursday!

XOXO,

GIGI

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

RANDOM-NESS

Posted on November 6, 2013 by Gigi in Shopping, Web 2 Comments

Do you ever wonder why some people do the things they do? Especially when it is not something positive, or uplifting, almost as if they purpose to make life difficult and go out of their way to be hurtful to others. I find this phenomenon prevalent in groups of women, perhaps it is the hormones mixing together that creates an atmosphere of animosity. At my age my patience is not like it used to be, maybe because I know the value of living each day to the fullest and that there is so much in this world that I want to conquer that I don’t have time for craziness. I listen and I observe and wonder what is going on with that pour soul that they are exuding so much anger. I just want to take all of them and throw them in a hot yoga class, so they can sweat together and see that we really are so much alike, when you take away the barriers and melt down the layers and become vulnerable and reveal our hearts to each other.

O.K. enough of that…some fun stuff I discovered …

Holla Doormat

Is this not cute…Available at Nordstrom for 50.00

Every year I send out holiday cards, this year will be my 24th. I am always looking for a new card, the last few years I have been ordering from minted, and since they send me a repeat customer discount card I think I will be ordering from them again. They have interesting designs, good turn around and excellent service. I will be referring clients to them this season as well.

minted foil holiday cards

I do yoga in spurts, I need to be more consistant, but sometimes stuff happens, but I’m back on the wagon and I just splurged and ordered a new mat, how could I resist…

Love these

Available at anthropologie. 98.00

Speaking of anthropologie, I got the cutest “work” boot ever, when I am shooting I need to be comfortable, especially if I am out on location, I’m not the tennis shoe outside the gym type of girl, so when I found this boot online I was thrilled. It reminded me of one I liked by Valentino that was over the top–so this rustic version is perfect and was priced just right compared to the Valentino.

my boots 195.00

Valentino 1795.00

My other good bargain of the week a friend told me about the Trina Turk outlet in Alhambra–never new about this gem. I scored beautiful silk slips for my photo sessions for 10.00 each, I love the softness of sexy slips in my pics, everyone can wear these and they photograph so nicely. I also scored a beautiful Missoni inspired dress that I love for 80.00. Trina Turk Outlet 3025 West Mission Road Alhambra, 91803 626 872-0020 Trina Turk.

my slips…

pretty missoni “like” dress 80.00

And lastly a sort of sad story about the oldest woman to do the NY marathon, who died the next day with her tennis shoes still on…she was 84 years old, and said she wanted to die running…another example of do what makes you happy. read it here.

gigi

Happy Wednesday Everybody,

Xoxo,

Gigi

Holiday Party Weekend

Posted on December 14, 2012 by Gigi in Holiday 2 Comments

This year I focused on all of my red ornaments for this tree which is in my entry way. I try and do something different every year to keep it interesting.

Close up

I’m always looking for ornaments with African-Americans to add to my collection. I found this ballet dancer last year on clearance at Macy’s.

I’m doing closet shopping for a weekend of festive celebrations. While it is nice to shop for a special outfit, I find it more rewarding to shop my closet and reinvent something from the past. Also since I am the consummate bargain shopper, most of the things I buy are out of season, I may have a party dress that I picked up last year for little of nothing hanging in the closet ready for “its” debut.

Tonight is my Jack and Jill holiday party, Saturday morning my workout group “fifty days to fitness” hike, Saturday evening Reggie’s fraternity Black tie holiday celebration, Sunday afternoon “girls” brunch, and Sunday evening, a tree trimming party. Needless to say, I’m excited about the weekend and I’m looking forward to reconnecting and celebrating with friends. What are your holiday plans? I hope your holidays are going smooth and you are making time for yourself.

Xoxo,

Gigi

South Africa and Stars

I like to mix my holiday with my existing decor–I got this tall “lady” on my South Africa trip. This picture does not do her justice.

Blue Tree

This tree is in the family tree, for this one I did a “blue” theme. I’m so glad that my local Home Depot had really nice trees for a good price. Over the years I have accumulated so many ornaments so it is never a problem decorating a few trees.

blue close up

Every ornament has a story, this Obama ornament was picked up on my son’s 8th grade east coast trip, I remember it was the last one-so happy it has a home on my tree.

piano angel

I love this “Angel” she is so delicate…I’m surprised I still have her, every year somebody knocks her down and a little piece of her is chipped–no matter where I put her.

South Africa Angels

These angels are hand made in South Africa, we visited a craft center where all these beaded items are made–amazing.

Table Dressing

Once again the juxtaposition of Kuba cloth and crystal.

Happy Weekend

Gigi

Gigi’s Gift Guide: $25 and Under

Posted on December 5, 2012 by Gigi in Gift Guide 2 Comments

Reggie and I both have large families so that can mean lots of gifts, so I always try and find thoughtful gifts that are interesting and affordable.

go anywhere speakers mp3 22.99

I could use this on location to help my clients relax, or at a private picnic in the park or at the beach. The speaker is the same size as a phone. Available at RH.

wooden train 20.94

I love old-fashioned toys. Children love using their imaginations when given an opportunity. Get it here.

glitter nail polish 14.00

Perfect for the holidays glitter polish available at Nordstrom, btw love that Nordstrom will wrap this little gem for you.

luggage scale 12.49

I can’t tell you how many times I have been on the sidewalk adjusting my luggage because it was over weight. Available at RH.

Wanderlust Candles 25.00

Candles are always nice, these are named after cities ie. Paris, New York, London etc. the scents are connected to the place so you can have a stacation in your place. Get them here.

Tee from the Gap 19.99

Can never have to many of these. They come in numerous colors, great for layers. Gap.

stationary set Carolina Herrera Target 19.99

I still like to write personal notes. This would make a nice gift-from the Target/Neiman collection.

nudo garlic olive oil 11.99

I received a collection of this olive oil as a present a few years ago and have been using ever since. Love it!

holiday candy cane glasses 6@$24

I love holiday dishes and use them the entire month of December. I am always adding to my collection. These are at World Market. They also have a martini and a shot glass.

Another option for reasonable gifts is to give a service that you provide, ie. babysitting, prepare a meal, massage, movie tickets, workout with someone, a nice hike, pick up from the airport, etc..

Hope these gifts help you with some of your selections.

Happy Shopping!

Xoxo,

Gigi

Gigi’s List 2012: Gadget Lovers

Black Friday

Posted on November 23, 2012 by Gigi in Shopping 1 Comment

Black Friday

Once upon a time I used to brave the sales day after Thanksgiving, it was a tradition. This was before there were sales every other day, before there were outlets, and the day after sales really made sense. Now Black Friday is a day for me to enjoy being at home with my family without the intensity of the large Thanksgiving celebration. If you are braving the crowds for that special deal, I hope you find what you are looking for, but come back home and do something more low key.

Have a gratitude filled weekend.

Xoxo,

Gigi

TJ Maxx Finds

Posted on November 6, 2012 by Gigi in Shopping 9 Comments

English: Logo of TJ Maxx (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I am always looking for a bargain. TJ Maxx is one of my favorite places to hunt, I always go with an open mind and meander through the store and see what I stumble upon. Today was no different let me share with you some of my discoveries.

Cute Flats for 19.99

I’m a “heel” girl, but sometimes you need a flat to walk around in, these were so cute and reasonable and for the price very cute and similar to than more expensive department store counterparts, like this one from Neiman Marcus by Prada for $470.00.

Prada glitter slipper $470.00

I have always wanted a pair of vibrams, just had not picked a pair up as of yet, but I was surprised to find these there and they fit. In the store they cost about 90.00 these were 39.99. Score!

I have always wanted a pair of these.

Glitter Laptop Bag

I love this glitter laptop bag by Nine West so cute for only 19.99

Laptop Bag

Love this one too…animals are on everything. This one is 19.99.

Wicker Stool 44.00

This was on clearance for 44.00 it will make a nice extra seat in my son’s room and I will also pull it out for an extra outdoor seat when needed.

Garden Stool 39.99

You can never have to many of these, I use them everywhere. This is a good price most are over 100.00.

Cute dress 24.99

This is a cute dress that I would do as a top over leggings with a short leather jacket, or it could work as a holiday dress for a 13-14 year-old.

Lace Dress 24.99

This one is cute too.

dress/top

Would pair this one with leggings too or with a nice strappy sandal.

Black sequin shorts 16.99

I got these for my daughter, I love the look paired with tights and boots.

Green Dessert Stand 12.99

Perfect green that would work for all the upcoming holidays.

dessert Dishes 5.99

I love the concept of small plates, I can think of so many uses for these.

Boot Stands 9.99

This is my favorite purchase Boot Standz- How clever is that? No more falling boots.

Hamper 19.99

I am going to use this for my dry cleaning–so cute.

This is a much needed magazine rack…I have so many and am always looking for a neat way to display them. 19.99

Juicy Couture Tote Bag 79.99

Tote bag can never have to many they always have a nice selection of travel bags and luggage.

Hot yoga towel mat

These are so expensive at the studio around 50.00 this one is 19.99.

Work out Wallet 5.99

Love this…always need somewhere to put keys when on a run.

Leather Jacket 49.99

Leather jacket with distressed finish.

Pleather Jacket 34.99

White jacket 34.99

Gigi in a white pearl finish jacket 34.99 keeper–I will wear this with my white jeans and booties…Love this. Sorry about the blurry pics not supposed to be taking pictures in the store. So take a cruise down to your local TJ Maxx and let me know what you find.

Xoxo,

Gigi

Gigi’s Meanderings Around The Web #4

Posted on October 25, 2012 by Gigi in Uncategorized, Web Comments Off

A little of this and that from around the web…

I’m taking a photoshop class and this you tube sums it up…

Another reason I am taking photoshop check this out.

I had no clue that Lenny Kravitz was an interior designer, I’m impressed .

Neiman Marcus & Target December 1, just in time.

http://youtu.be/B759bNVL8_0

I love this song…can’t get it out of my head.

Charlotte Olympia Leaf shoe

Scored these at Neiman Marcus Last Call-doing the happy dance additional 30% off all designer shoes…I love beautiful things, but I rarely ever pay retail. I have learned that everything eventually gets marked down. My friend Vince at Neiman Marcus Last Call Ontario Mills always lets me know when the good stuff arrives. Check him out the next time you are in the Inland Empire. Ontario Mills 1 Mills Circle Ontario 909 919-2748 M-S 10-9 Sun. 11-8

Neiman Marcus Last Call Ontario Mills

This weekend I will be in Santa Barbara. Have a wonderful weekend.

Xoxo,

Gigi

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