happiest 16th of May

Wishing my amazing friend A the happiest 25th year of her life! Happy Birthday my love! I count my lucky stars [and I thank Temple University, and DZ] for allowing me to meet this wonderful woman.

May it bring you the most beautiful wedding, an amazing trip to Bora Bora and a wonderful first year of marriage with your new husband!

good to be home

I'm so happy to be home to celebrate Mother's Day and the bridal shower of my high school/college girlfriend. S and I have been friends since probably the sixth grade. The memories I have with this girl are countless. Probably many I'd rather not share here. Regardless of our antics, we've remained friends over the years and I'm so thankful for her caring ways, her big heart and her beautiful smile. S is going to make a gorgeous bride! Can't wait to celebrate on the 5th of July! xo

a post for the moms in my life

The happiest [early] Mother's Day to all of the women in my life. But especially to these four women in particular. You will never truly know how much you mean to me!

My Aunt Anet, who is more like a second mother to me than an aunt. I can't begin to touch on the things this woman has taught me [after all, she's a true teacher at heart]. She is smart, funny, creative and wise. My sweet little godson is so lucky to have you as his Nonna!

My cousin Carla, who is the sister God never gave me. You are my best friend and my partner-in-crime. You are an amazing woman with so much passion, drive and humor. Watching you become a mother has been truly amazing. I always knew you'd be good at it, but I didn't know you'd be this good!

My Nonna, who has blessed our family with a rich heritage [including the most amazing girls trip to Italy], countless family recipes and the cutest Italian-English accent ever. Your broken English emails make my smile and our weekly phone conversations make me realize you are more than just a grandmother, you are my girlfriend. You are the most selfless person I know, and we all adore you.

And the most important, the woman who gave birth to yours truly.

Mama, Madre, Mommers. You are my heart. Speaking of selfless people... I totally know where you get it from. You have taught me so many things about life, so many "Gina-isms." I want you to know how proud I am of you. You're smart [an AuD now!], and funny and so very caring [stop baby-ing Mark!]. You have always treated me like a true princess [a PIP], given me my love of travel and shopping. I wouldn't know my way around the kitchen if it weren't for you. You make me laugh, you make my roll my eyes, you sometimes drive me absolutely insane... but I wouldn't have you any other way. I love you to the moon and back. Happy Mother's Day, Mom. xo

[photos from our 2011 trip to Italy]

green thumb

A little urban gardening on my day off! Perfect for relaxing.

Met Gala love

I feel like life has been such a whirlwind lately that I've barely been able to keep up with pop culture. But this morning as I lay in bed and go through pictures from the Met Gala last night, I am in awe! So much funky style and so many beautifully dressed women. I thought I'd share some of my favorites below:

[photo via Lainey Gossip]

Jennifer Lopez, I love how this Michael Kors dress hugs her curves so beautifully! Looking gorgeous as ever!

[photo via Daily Mail]

Miranda Kerr looking stunning in a cut out dress by Michael Kors. Clearly she's used to showing off her body, as a Victoria's Secret model. But how classic and fit does she look in this all black number?

[photo via Just Jared]

Gisele's got legs for days and the hottest arm candy around. Rock that Anthony Vacarello dress, girlfriend! What a hot mama!

[photo via Perez Hilton]

I love Jessica Alba's cut-out, ink-blot dress by Tory Burch and her high, tight bun. So classic!

Other notables: Emmy Rossum and Blake Lively. Who were your favorites?