Popcorn and Pandas

In the Garden

My guy has been working hard on our garden this year. I can’t say I have participated much more than a trip to the nursery to pick out some plants (which was really fun by the way!) and a couple days of watering, but I’ve been watching the baby, ok? In due time when these plants start producing some vegetables…that’s when my work will come into play. I will be making homemade tomato sauce and pesto, and I will have a happy husband. Teamwork makes the world go round.

Top: J. Crew (old) / Dress (worn as a skirt): Free People (old) – shop day dresses / Shoes: Nordstrom Rack / Bag: H&M / Sunnies: YSL / Lip: MAC Up the Amp / Necklace: Gifted / Bracelet: Oja Jules / Watch: Coach

It was a bit of a rough weekend, as I caught a sinus infection and was completely laid up. We had to cancel our anniversary dinner and I missed the 30th Birthday celebration for my brother-in-law and sister-in-law. On a separate doctor’s note, I spent yesterday morning in the orthopedic office getting a Cortisone shot to try and help my trigger finger. Womp womp.

Starting to feel better today, and enjoying the amazing weather we have had in the city the past few days. We are getting excited for our upcoming family mini vacay with our best friends Erin & Rai. You may remember them from our Maine trip last year. We have decided to take another adventure with them to the New England region, and this time we are visiting New Hampshire (and we will also have a mini addition to the crew this year!) We are heading north earlier in the season, so it will be a bit chillier than last year but we are looking forward to a bit of adventure, some breathtaking natural surroundings, and some R&R as well.

Hope you are all enjoying the week so far!

XO,

Gina

Mutual Weirdness

Celebrating 3 years of ~~mutual weirdness~~ marital bliss today. Tomorrow will also equal 9.5 years together.

To my partner in crime:

Thanks for shaking my hand awkwardly at that frat party. Thanks for accepting my terrible Nextel phone clip. Thanks for the letters from Nevada. Thanks for listening and taking me to The Melting Pot for our first date. Thanks for awkwardly introducing me as your girlfriend to someone before we had had “the talk.” Thanks for being persistent. Thanks for understanding me and my quirks. Thanks for forgiving me after we fight. Thanks for supporting me in chasing my dreams. Thanks for moving to New York with me. Thanks for building a life with me. Thanks for sharing a tiny apartment without killing me for 4.5 years. Thanks for being the best travel partner. Thanks for complementing me in a way that opposites attract. Thanks for laughing at my terrible jokes. Thanks for taking my photos for this blog, even though we get strange looks on the streets and sometimes it’s uncomfortable. Thanks for listening to me. Thanks for taking long walks. Thanks for being open minded. Thanks for working hard for us. Thanks for being honest and trustworthy. Thanks for being an amazing father.

I love you to the moon and back, and I cannot wait to see what the following years of mutual weirdness will bring.

XO,

Gina

P.S. Here is a little blast from the past.

My 1st Mother’s Day

What a wonderful 1st Mother’s Day spent with my boys! I relaxed this weekend, and we also took a day trip to Coney Island which means I didn’t spend much time writing posts. However, I did snap a lot of photos, which I will be sharing in the next couple weeks. My favorite gifts are ones that are made with love and pull at my heart strings. This gift from my amazing husband had me in tears as he compiled a bunch of our videos of our son, Nico, who is now 8 months old (almost 9 now…eek!) It’s crazy how much you forget about each little step along the way because your baby keeps growing and changing and you have to keep up. Watching this video really hit me hard, because you cannot rewind those little moments. He will never be that tiny again. Seeing him with so little hair, making those squeaky little sounds he used to make, hating tummy time with a passion, when he really looked at me for the first time, trying those first bites of food, the first giggle, when he loved sleeping on my chest…you cannot get that back. We are forever pushing forward. Which of course, in and of itself is also extremely exciting. I love thinking about all the other firsts Nico will accomplish…but it’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing you cannot go back to when he was tiny…and it gut punches you when you realize how fast this is all going.

Nico, it has been a pleasure and a joy to be your Mom these past 8.5 months. I love you forever.

And a special belated Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful moms I know in my life. I am lucky to have wonderful grandmother’s, aunts, a godmother, ladies that I can call 2nd moms, and a fantastic mother-in-law. Most importantly, I am so lucky to have my Mom. She has shown me what it takes to be a good mom, sister, daughter, and friend. I now understand all the hard work, time, and effort you put in to raise me. I love you so much, and I cannot thank you enough for being my rock. I love our nightly chats on my walk home from the subway, and you are already an amazing Mimi to our Nico.

XO,

Gina

Weekend Casual

Maxi Dress: Forever 21 / Hat: P. Luca for Barami – similar on eBay / Shoes: ALDO / Scarf: Gifted – similar / Jacket: American Eagle – similar / Necklace: Vintage / Aviators: NY Street Vendor / Watch: Michael Kors (now on sale!) / Bracelet: J. Crew – also love this gold pave link bracelet / Earrings: Forever 21 / Lip: MAC Impassioned

Along with spring cleaning, we also joined my grandmother and aunt for lunch over the weekend while they were in Brooklyn for the day. Now that the weather is getting warmer, I’m excited to break out the dresses again. A maxi dress lends itself to putting together a complete look quickly. It allows you to stay comfortable, but also put together at the same time. Nico is just starting to be a bit more mobile and with all the chasing I imagine on the horizon, I have a feeling maxi dresses are going to be a staple item again this summer. The only difference (as I quickly learned Saturday) is that I am going to have to hem my maxis. They tend to run a little long when I’m sans baby bump!

In case you missed my post yesterday, I’m hosting a little closet sale over on Pinterest if you are interested in checking it out!

Hope you are all having a great week so far!

XO,

Gina

P + P Spring Closet Sale!

Hello there lovely readers!

You know when your closet gets so messy that you can’t even see the floor anymore? Things piled so high, so utterly disorganized, that you give up and just forego cleanliness and keep piling things on in heaps? No? Is that just me? Well, my closet had definitely gotten to that point, and this weekend I finally decided to do something about it with a little spring cleaning. I must admit, I have a little bit of a hoarding tendency. My husband is constantly getting on my case about throwing things away.

Zack: I mean Gi, do you really need to keep every birthday card, soccer trophy, and note you passed in 8th grade?

Me: YES HONEY I DO.

When it comes to clothing, I am not much better. I usually keep things around until they are unwearable. Clothes stick around in my closet waiting for a day when that trend will “come back in style.” I have sorority T-shirts that I don’t even wear anymore, but I cannot bear to part with because of all the memories associated. A dress that I didn’t wear all summer will sit there with the clear intent that I will wear it. Then that summer goes and passes, and the dress is still hanging by its lonely self hoping for the following summer to grace the world with it’s presence once again.

That being said, it’s tough to hoard in a two bedroom apartment with a husband and a baby. The things pile on and the clutter becomes absurd. Gretchen says de-cluttering is one of the keys to happiness, and I certainly agree that lack of clutter has eased my stress in the past.

So there you have it. On a quest to staying happy and relieving stress, I spent the weekend cleaning. And here is my first little online closet sale to show for it.

Here’s the scoop:

1) I created a Pinterest board with all the items for sale.

2) If you want to buy an item, write “Sold” in the comments section along with your PayPal email. If you don’t have a PayPal account, you can create one here.

3) Half of all proceeds will go to a Reader’s Choice charity. After you write your intent to buy an item, please cast your vote for your charity of choice. I will then randomly select a charity from the reader’s votes to make the donation.

4) Shipping is not included. All items will be sent standard USPS.

5) All items are final sale.

Happy Shopping!

XO,

Gina

Rainy Day Essentials

As I sit and listen to the rain fall against my windowpane, it only seemed appropriate to put together a collection of rainy day essentials. While the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers, I’m willing to bet we will still get a fair amount of rain this spring. These pieces help to embrace the stormy weather while we wait for brighter days.

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1. Wide Brim Hat: ASOS – To cover your head on those days when it’s sprinkling or when it’s too windy for your umbrella.

2. Umbrella Studs: Etsy – Embrace the rainy day with these adorable studs.

3. Panda Umbrella: ModCloth – I mean, is this not the cutest umbrella you have ever seen?! I need this.

4. Waterproof Mascara: Tarte – Because running mascara is not a good look.

4. Rainboots: Hunter – Rainboots are a must in the city, and these bright pink ones boost my mood on a rainy day.

5. Hairspray : Dove – For those frizzy fly-aways, because we all know rain equals a bad hair day.

6. Teapot: Occa Home – The most adorable vintage teapot, because there is nothing like a cup of hot tea while you watch the rain fall.

7. Rain Earrings: Etsy – Remember when we were kids and we used to splash through the puddles and get excited about the rain? These earrings bring me back to that place.

8. Raincoat: ModCloth – Who says you can’t look cute in the rain? The polka dot raincoat is fabulous!

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Happy Rainy Thursday!

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XO,

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Gina

-Wide B

On The Edge

Jacket: Goodnight Macaroon – similar here and here / Top: Forever 21 / Absolute Legging: AG Jeans / Shoes: ShoeMint / Locket: Vintage via Etsy – similar here / Bag: T.J. Maxx / Earrings: Forever 21 / Bracelets: Flair Accessories, Wanderlust + Co., & ASOS / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Lip: Lancome Luxe

I apologize for falling off the blogosphere the past few weeks. I spent the holidays tending to a sick baby. It was the most sad thing. His little face looking up at me in too much pain to really cry. Just moaning and groaning wondering “What the heck is wrong with me mama? Please fix it.” At least that’s what I imagine he was trying to say. It’s probably the hardest on us parents knowing our babies are hurting, and we can’t do anything to change it. All I could do was give him Tylenol/Motrin and lots of snuggles. He tried to be as happy as could be, and I love him for trying. He’s the sweetest little monkey there ever was.

I had been dreading the first sickness, and I suppose it had to happen sometime. I have to say, I am happy it’s over. Although, we could not travel for Easter, we did manage to get down to Maryland this past weekend to see some family and friends. It was nice to spend some quality time with the fam, and we even had a fun night out for a dear friend’s 30th (thanks Bubbe for babysitting)! Sunday we participated in the John Petrovick 5K as a family and raised money for the neurology and neurosurgery unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital. I also saw another dear friend to shower her with baby gifts for her little principessa on the way!

Back in New York, I feel swamped with a million things I “need” to do. Unpacking being one. Cleaning. Laundry. Gift buying. The list goes on and on. But I am glad I decided to forego all of that for the moment to come back to my little space here that I have missed these past few weeks.

Hope you are all having a happy one!

XO,

Gina

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Beauty. Natural light. Vibrant color. Fresh blooms. Sweet smells. Tranquility. These are some of the things that come to mind when I think about our trip to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Spring is here, and I couldn’t be happier. Coming off a harsh winter, there is nothing nicer than walking around in the sunshine without a heavy coat. Taking in the views of the tiny buds coming to new life in a new year reminds me why this change of seasons is important. It forces you to pay attention. To appreciate the nature that surrounds you and the warmer, happier months ahead. At least, I think they are happier. I’m sure there is someone out there who loves the snow. To be bundled up, cozy and toasty by the fireplace with a good book and a hot chocolate. Don’t get me wrong. I do enjoy those moments for what they are worth. And those moments get me through the winter season. But I am much happier outside in the sunshine and warmth. I enjoy taking long walks, picnicking in the park, riding my bike, hiking through the woods, jumping into the ocean, sipping a pina colada, and everything else that comes with these warmer seasons ahead. The blooming flowers at the Botanic Garden give me the sense as if this is the real start of the new year. And it makes me excited for the adventures of what’s to come for this little family of mine.

After an exceptionally gorgeous three days we just experienced here in Brooklyn…today I don’t even mind the rain. Cheers to spring, and everything it brings.

XO,

Gina

{23} Lately…

Lately I’ve been…

reading The Happiness Project by Gretchin Rubin. I am two chapters in, and I’m already thinking about what I could do to be happier. I am totally with Gretchen in the fact that I am already happy…but I agree that there is no reason to not be the happiest you can possibly be. So far, it’s been pretty thought provoking, and I’ve already thought about so many little changes I could make that would add up to a big difference.

writing RSVP’s. Wedding and baby shower season has officially begun.

listening I’m guessing this will be the “song of the summer” – #SELFIE by the Chainsmokers

thinking It will be strange to celebrate Easter without my Uncle this year…at the same time, I am excited to celebrate another 1st holiday for my little man, Nico. Thoughts on painting Easter eggs vs. dyeing them this year?

smelling Garlic and onions and a sweet smelling tomato sauce. Mmm.

watching Dallas Buyer’s Club. So happy I finally got to see this Oscar Nominated film. I can’t believe how far Mathew McConoughey has come in his career. Bravo.

wishing A Happy Birthday to my {might as well be} brother-in-law, Adam. Hope you and your Mama had a great time celebrating yesterday!

hoping That my child will learn to take a nap in his crib. He’s starting to sit up in and grow out of the swing (I know, we were able to use this a lot longer than most, and it has served us well). It’s starting to get to the point where he will only nap in the stroller, and that isn’t always an option!

wearing Dresses! It’s now warm enough that I don’t have to bundle in pants every day. I love wearing free flowing dresses in the spring and summer seasons, and I am particularly loving these daytime dresses from Free People.

loving The amazing weather that we had over the weekend! We went on multiple walks, enjoyed the Brooklyn Smorgasbord, had a night out at the beer garden, and relished in the sunshine. Nico also had his first adventure in a swings last weekend, which was a ton of fun!

laughing At Nico’s current method of transportation. After a few failed attempts at crawling, he has resorted to scooting while sitting up. It’s hysterical.

wanting A pedicure. It’s almost flip flop season people, and these puppies are not ready for open-toed shoes.

needing To baby proof our apartment. You don’t realize the potential dangers of your home until you have a little one almost on the move. We ordered a few things from Amazon including these, these, and these. If anyone has any suggestions in this department, they are welcome!

feeling Very behind at photo editing. Between keeping up with work, a baby, this blog, mealtimes, and an attempted social life, my personal photos have been severely neglected. I still have to edit our family Christmas photos and ones from Nico’s Baptism. I keep setting time slots to do it, and something “more important” and time sensitive arrises.

craving Coconut sorbet. I have been cutting back a bit on dairy currently, because I think it might be having a slight impact on my babe’s digestion. I tried out almond milk for the first time, which is surprisingly decent, and coconut sorbet has become my new best friend (because a girl has to satisfy that sweet tooth).

clicking Over on the Merch website. Love these stamped necklaces, and would love to get one that says “Ditmas Park.”

What have you been up to lately?

Also, congratulations to readers, Rachel and Joyce! You have each won a $35 credit to Stella & Dot jewelry for shopping the trunk show! You have also won an additional piece at 50% off. Check your e-mail later today for details.

Hope you all have a great week!

Love,

Gina

***I was inspired by Tina of Like Ordinary Life to create this post, and she was inspired by Lauren of siddathornton, who started The Sunday Currently.

Flower Child

Flowing Floral Pants: Forever 21 / Top: Target / Jean Jacket: American Eagle – similar / Flower Crown Headband: Urban Outfitters – similar / Shoes: Nine West – similar / Earrings: Baublebar – similar / Medallion: old / Sunglasses: Vintage / Bag: Rebecca Minkoff – also like it in silver / Chevron Rings: Baublebar (sold out, but like these sets as well) / Bracelet: cara New York – similar / Watch: Michael Kors / Lip: MAC Snob

I’m not usually one for a wide leg pant, but I could not resist this vibrant floral pair from Forever 21. If you are looking for a pair of pants as comfortable as pajamas but acceptable to wear outside of the house, then these are definitely the pants for you! I wore these last weekend on a long walk to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, and they were both flowy and light. I was clearly excited that spring had arrived as you can see from the multitude of florals in my attire. We had a great time exploring and seeing the new buds coming up showing the first signs of the season. I am definitely planning on going back here again toward the end of the month when things are in full bloom. I took a few more photos of our trip to the botanical gardens, so stay tuned next week!

Happy Friday!

XO,

Gina