FAREWELL . . . for now

Hello to my followers.  This post is dedicated to those who have been following me for the past few years.  It's with sadness that I have to sign off . . . for now.

I'm at a cross roads, where I'm trying to dedicate my all to my daily posts but time and again, "life" has taken priority over my outlet for blogging.  I've been struggling to "do it all".  Lately, I've noticed myself, getting frustrated, stressed, rushed and just burnt out.  Being gone for 12 hours a day (sometimes more) and caring for two doggies - there's not enough hours during the evening to sit and put a post together.  And, I find that putting just any ordinary post, just to do it, is not something I wanted to do.

It's funny, as I'm writing this post, my husband is reminding me to make a list of reminders that I need him to do for my dad.  You see, we recently invested in a condo and moved my dad closer to us.  I took a few days off last week, to get him settled in.  Having him near me, requires more responsibility on my part.  I want to make sure he doesn't feel alone, in a new place and a new state.

I want to also dedicate time, taking care of myself - physically and emotionally.  I suffer with back pain and I know a big part of that is spending a majority of my time sitting at work and commuting long hours to and from work.  I need to exercise (pilates, yoga) to strengthen my flexibility.

My hope is to recharge myself and find that positive state of mind again.    A huge "THANK YOU" to those that have followed my blog. It means so much.  Its not good-bye.  You'll still be able to follow me on Instagram (joann3373) and Snapchat (@jodigiacinto) to follow my daily life.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Summer.


xo,

FASHION FRIDAY: Dressing for Work and After . . .

1 - CeCe 'Kate' Ruffle Hem Shift Dress (Nordstrom)
2 - Marchesa Faux Pearl & Crystal Cluster Drop Earrings (Nordstrom)
3 - Tory Burch Medium 'Fleming' Leather Shoulder Bag (Nordstrom)
4 - Ivanka Trump 'Holiday' d'Orsay Sandal (Nordstrom)


*****

Happy Friday everyone!  Looking forward to the weekend.  Technically, today would have been my day off from work but plans, not under my control, changed.  We were supposed to attend a closing that got pushed to Monday.  Fingers crossed, all goes well.  

 The weather has been so cool these past few days.  I had to pull out a light jacket! Expect much of the same, with a little rain this weekend.  Looking forward to seeing my sister-in-law, who is in from California with her boyfriend and new puppy. 

Today's office look is for all you working gals.  During the warm summer months, getting together with co-workers after work is pretty popular; especially on a Thursday or Friday evening.  You can pull this look for day, traveling in a fashionable pair of flats, and change into a sexy sandal to carry you after hours work hours. I love the ruffle details on this dress. It also comes in a variety of colors and less than $140.00.

Have a great weekend everyone!

xo,

HOUSE PROJECT: INSPIRATION IDEAS FOR SIDE YARD

One project this season is to try and get the side yard of our house completed (at least the first phase).

My husband has been spending weekends cleaning up the landscaping around our house.

Image

Image 

Image 

FASHION: Social Event Outfit Look

1 -Halston Heritage Bracelet-Sleeve V-Neck Dress (on sale for $137!) 
2 - Bobbi Brown 'Sunkissed' Eye Pallette in Sunkissed Gold
3 - Gucci Lip Audacious Color - Intense (40 Rose Dragee)
4 -   Whiting & Davis 'Crystal' Mesh Clutch
5 - Aquazzura Lind Crisscross Tie-Back Metallic Sandal - Light Gold

****

Hi everyone!  Sorry for the lack of posts last week.  I needed to shut down and regroup myself.  It seems lately, my schedule is consumed with my every day routine and I'm slowly losing myself - getting caught up in the day to day grind.

I was chatting with a couple of friends and we talked about how we have lost touch with those people that mean a lot to us.  We get caught up and forget to take the time to say "hi".  And, it's that time that seems to be taking a lot out of us (meaning, me). 

I'm not a "phone person", spending hours talking to people. But, it doesn't mean I'm not thinking about the person.  Need to really make the time to connect with the important people in my life and connect with myself. 

I will admit, I did manage to attend a graduation party last Friday night!  It was nice to get dressed up and be out with friends for the evening.  Now with the warmer weather, people are hosting or attending social events. 

Here's a look I put together if you are attending or hosting one of those events. Or, if you are simply heading to a nice restaurant.  I'm loving white dresses lately and this dress by Halston Heritage is simple yet sexy - with the plunging v-neck line.  I love it paired with gold.

Have a great day everyone!

xo,

CREATING YOUR PICNIC TABLE ON THE GO

****

Spending time outdoors on a beautiful spring/summer day, is something I enjoy doing.  So when I saw Crate and Barrel's Table in a Bag, I thought this was a genius idea.  Especially, if your outdoor plans include heading to the park or even the beach.  You will be the envy of the posh picnic you set up!  A picnic is always fun but sometimes can be uncomfortable to eat so low to the ground and then there's the bug problem - ants going on your blanket right to your food.  And, when you're done, it's convenient enough to disassemble and store in the canvas bag.  If interested, the table in a bag is currently on sale for $59.00


Happy shopping!

xo,

SPRING INSPIRED TABLE DECOR

****

Hi everyone!  How was your weekend?  Ours started off cloudy and raining but Sunday afternoon turned out to be a pretty day with sunshine and warmer temperatures.  

Today I'm sharing my table decor inspiration look.  If you couldn't tell, I'm loving all things pink and this table decor doesn't disappoint.  Lets talk about the dinnerware from Fishs Eddy via West Elm.  The design detail of the scalloped dinner plate with black and gold band detail is so gorgeous.  And, how cute is the side plate with the pink and gold band.  Pairing these with cooper, pink and black accents brings the whole look together.

Entertaining with this table decor can be set up for indoors or outdoors.  Complete this look with a gorgeous floral arrangement, a fabulous dinner and signature drink.  Hope you've been inspired!

Details:

1.  Fishs Eddy Scalloped Dinner Plate, Black and Gold Decorative Band (West Elm)

2.  Poplin Pink Napkins (set of 8) (CB2)

3.  Copper Flatware (West Elm)

4.  Fishs Eddy Gilded Side Plate, Thick Striped Band, Pink (West Elm)

5.  Hobnail Acrylic Drinkware (Pottery Barn)

6.  Malibu Figural Fish Bowl (set of 4) (Pottery Barn)

7.  Pinstripe Black Napkin (CB2)

8.  Copper Bar Tray (CB2)

Happy shopping!

xo,

FASHION: My Look for the Office

****

F-R-I-D-A-Y!!!  It has been a long week and a frustrating week - commute wise.   I really struggle and battle with this long, two hour commute home when it shouldn't take that long.  I feel so rushed to get home, take the pups out for their walk, cook for them, clean up, throw in some play time and before I know it, it's time for bed.

I do enjoy working in NYC but wish I didn't have to commute.  I wish I could just plug in my work address and zap myself there.  Working in NYC, I enjoy picking out my outfit to wear at the office.  With springtime weather, it calls for lighter and softer looks.

Lately, my color choices for Spring have been just that . . .  lighter and softer color tones.  Wearing black all year long has been a staple of mine but I'm slowly transitioning and expanding my wardrobe with a neutral color palette.

I purchased a couple of months ago, the 3/4 sleeve cardigan, in "berry mousse" from Ann Taylor (on sale).  I usually pair a cardigan with a dress or skirt.  You can add a blazer as well.  I'm loving the Silk Lace Trim Cami from Express but need it to go on sale!  This cami would be perfect for summer.    Another favorite of mine is this Textured midi skirt from Mango.  I have several white skirts and this one is on my wish list (if it goes on sale).  And, how cute is the Leather Shoulder bag from Ted Baker in baby pink.  I love the feminine look of this handbag.  A new sandal to try is from Chinese Laundry.  The 'Lavelle' Ankle strap sandal is kind to your wallet ($79.95).  And, the criss-cross design is different than the other versions on the market (i.e., Stuart Weitzman, Manolo Blahnik, Aldo).

Wishing everyone a great weekend.

Happy shopping!

xo,

PRETTY WHITE DRESSES: My Favorites from ASOS

Boohoo Lace Midi dress ($44.00)

Vanessa Bruno At the Drop Waist dress ($385.00)

Vila All Over Crochet dress ($46.00)

Fashion Union dress in Crochet  ($52.00)

Vila Embellished Drop Waist dress  ($73.00)

Navy London Lace dress with Front Neck Detail ($106.00)

Moon River Double Layer Midi dress ($81.00)

Gremlin Brodie Crochet Trim dress ($146.00)

****

Happy hump day!  Sharing my favorite white dress from ASOS for Spring and Summer.  I love browsing ASOS' website to source new apparel.  The options are great and range in prices; for those who don't want to spend a ton of money and those who can splurge.

Happy shopping!

xo,

FASHION: Spring Style

1.  Crochet Panels shirt - (MANGO USA)
2.  Burberry Full Kisses (Rosewood) - (Sephora)
3.  Comme des Garcons Grace by Grace Coddington (Barneys)
4.  Floral Lace Pencil Skirt - (J. Crew)
5.  Christian Louboutin Triloubi Small Bag (Barneys)
6.  Christian Louboutin Pigalles Follies in Ballerina Pink (Neiman Marcus)

****

Hello readers.  Hope you had a lovely weekend.  The temperatures dropped after some rain and it was too windy and cool to enjoy the outdoors.  While indoors, I caught up on a pile of clothes that needed to be ironed and did my weekly house chores (very exciting life, I know).

Hoping for the warmer weather to return soon.  Today, I broke out my heavier jacket because temps are in the 40's and windy!  We are expected to reach 60 but still not warm in my book. 

Here's a Spring look I put together to put me in the mood.  Long sleeves are still needed during this season and I'm loving all things pink. The contrast of deep wine and pale pink is the perfect combo. And, I need to be in a better mood; after some aggravating news I received on Friday evening.  Hoping to get things resolved today.  

Enjoy your day!  

xo,

TABLE DECOR: Art Decor/Couture Inspired Look

1.  Patterned Plate (H and M Home)
2.  Couture Show Napkins - (Megan Hess)
3.  Savannah Charger Plate with Gold Rim (Crate and Barrel)
4.  Waterford Lismore Diamond Gold Goblet (Bloomingdales)
5.  Emory Gold5-Piece Flatware Place Setting (Crate and Barrel)
6.  Simple Marble Candlestick (Wisteria)
Image credit

****

I've always been drawn to the Art Deco period. Specifically, the design elements and fashion.  With the high glitz and glam, I felt inspired to create a similar look with a table setting.  

This table design plays homage to that period. How fun would it be to host an event and throw a bash!  Or, hosting a couture dinner, gathering with your favorite ladies.  I can see it held at a historic hotel in NYC.  Such as these options below. 

Wyndham New Yorker Hotel 

The Waldorf Astoria 

WestHouse Hotel

xo,

FASHION: Burst of Color for Spring

One: Lace Edges top (MANGO USA)
Two:  Halogen 'Starboard' Sandwiched Silk Scarf (Nordstrom)
Three:  Straight Cotton trousers (MANGO USA)
Four:  Uptown Mini Satchel (Henri Bendel)
Five:  Ivanka Trump 'Hera' Sandal (Nordstrom)

****

Hi there!  Hope you enjoyed the weekend and celebrated Mother's Day.  Yesterday was the first day, in over a week, we saw sunshine and blue skies.  I was starting to go into a depression with all the rain we had.

With sunshine in the forecast for the week, I put together this outfit, with a burst of orange/pumpkin.  I love how nicely it pairs with navy, neutrals and white.

Happy shopping!

xo,

THE HARMONIST

Last week, in the mail, I received the latest issue of House Beautiful magazine.  In it, I found a small article about a perfume; freshly imported from Paris call the Harmonist.  This line uses the ancient concepts of yin and yang to tailer a scent just for you!

When you visit their site, there you can take a quiz to find your own harmony.  The quiz asks for your name, sex, where you were born, and the time you were born.  After the system processes the data, your results are available.  The results are unique and based on your personal element.  What I found about me was pretty astounding!

So, I'll share my results with you guys.  Here's what it said:

JO ANN DIGIACINTO,
YOUR ELEMENT IS

yangearth

stable, reliable, a good listener

You are the rocky mountain

PERSONALITY

You are a true rock - stable, grounded and trustworthy. People often confide in you; the strong sense of security you exude means others easily trust your discreet integrity and moral uprightness. You tend not to make snap decisions, preferring to hear all sides of an argument, but once you have made up your mind, like a mountain, you are not easily swayed. You have great patience, stamina, will-power and a contemplative mind.

RELATIONSHIP

You have an attractive, curvaceous figure and your mature, mysterious air ensure men know you are not to be taken lightly. You expect your partner to be faithful, and woe betide him should you catch him cheating. Communication is not your strong point, but in fact you are sensitive to the needs of others and a steady relationship means a lot to you. Your children are extremely important to you, often becoming the focus of your life.

Say what?!  How do you know me?

Next, you will be offered ten elixirs that can each interact with your own element (out of the five basic elements you choose) -   Fire, Water, Earth, Wood and Metal.

Depending on what you're seeking to enhance, (i.e., "Socializing, Creativity, Prosperity, Status and Seduction or Wisdom"), you can choose the perfume scent for you.  Each category will describe the specific list of ingredient notes.  For example, I would probably lean towards "Prosperity" (Water) or "Wisdom" (Fire).  For each selection, you can choose a perfume in ying or yang.

if you seek

SOCIALIZING

If you seek to turn on the charm, enhance your social life, make new friends, or unleash your networking potential, the Earth perfume is the scent for you. Earth reflects your own personal energy and since ‘like attracts like’ you will soon discover your more gregarious, social side. Using the Earth scent will make you more out-going, spontaneous and approachable. Your new infectious energy will bring out the best in those around you, too. As you enhance your people skills, others will be able to see things from your perspective. 

read less

select

earth

if you seek

CREATIVITY

If you seek to introduce more fun, creativity, intelligence and passion into your life, then the Metal perfume is for you. Metal can be used to fashion beautiful things, so by surrounding yourself with the Metal scent, you can unlock your imagination, becoming more expressive, optimistic, confident and cheerful. You will find yourself centre stage with a renewed passion for life: curious, playful and ready for new challenges. Since your verbal skills will improve, too, you can market yourself more successfully as well.

read less

select

metal

if you seek

PROSPERITY

Ever feel stuck in a rut? Then it’s time to tap into your Prosperity element, Water, to shake things up a little and take control. Your element, Earth, dams Water, so by harnessing the essence of Water, you will be able to take charge, becoming more assertive, efficient, dynamic and results-oriented. Enveloping yourself in the scent of Water will widen your vision, enabling you to focus on long-term goals. You will find yourself ready to take risks and longing for change. Financial success should soon follow, riding the tide of your newfound ambition and determination. So use the Water scent and watch your dreams come true!

read less

select

water

if you seek

STATUS & SEDUCTION

Your Status element is Wood, and since the roots of a strong tree can support an earthy bank, use the Earth scent if you seek new structure – or new companions - in your life. The Wood energy can boost your sex appeal, too, enhancing your powers of seduction and increasing your allure. Calm, steady and diplomatic, you will find yourself less influenced by your emotions, a good listener and peacekeeper. Since these are qualities your boss will appreciate, you may expect to see an improvement in your status soon, too. 

read less

select

wood

if you seek

WISDOM

Fire is the molten core, the centre of the Earth, so if you seek to nourish body, soul and mind, envelope yourself in an aura of Fire. Its calming effect helps you relax so that your mind can become more reflective, analytical, attentive and methodical. Use Fire to unlock your abilities for problem-solving and research, and, better able to manage your time, your life will take on a more orderly, balanced harmony. Friends will turn to you for advice, appreciating your discreet loyalty and compassionate sincerity. 

read less

select

.

You can read the details for each by clicking on Ying and Yang:
Ying
Yang

Prices range from $275/$285.  While a little pricey, I am tempted to save for a bottle to see if it enhances my inner self.

All in all, it was a fun experience that I would encourage you to try.

Let me know if you feel it describes you correctly.

xo,

SPRUCING UP FOR SPRING: Landscape and Home Decor

Bijou candle - Bois de Vanille

Vases (vintage shop finds)

Tray purchased at Bloomingdales

****

Happy May!  Sounds so much better than "Monday".   On the east coast, we are starting the month off with rain and cooler temperatures.  Saturday was a pleasant day and we decided to visit a landscaping nursery that we've never visited before.  

We picked up some plantings for three of our planters in the backyard.  While two of our planters are not fully complete, I'm sharing what we've planted (ahem . . . what my hubby planted). 

I just love adding to our landscaping using planters. They create another layer of interest and perfect for incorporating more flowers in the back or front of your home.  For example, one of the planters we planted yellow begonias. Can I just tell you, I love the yellow begonias!  This is the first year I planted begonias or incorporated yellow flowers in our planters. 

When decorating for Spring inside the home, I opted for bright white accents, a lighter colored tray; completing the look with a soft floral arrangement.  This arrangement is something I will be creating more for spring. The mini green hydrangeas are a favorite of mine.  I love how these small changes, instantly brighten the room; making it fresh and alive. 

What changes have your made for Spring?

xo,