What’s the first thing I noticed about South Beach (or shall I say heard)?  It was the “clackers.”  Clack, clack, clack is the sound you hear from all the high heeled shoes echoing throughout the hotel lobby and on the streets.  One thing about the women in Miami – they love to clack!  There is a lot of emphasis put into their wardrobe, (I say that with a laugh) but most importantly their shoes!  They love at least 5” heels in either stiletto or wedge style (NY is no different, however we LOVE the Stiletto – and can run in them)!  They love to show their legs off, and their derrière too (not exactly my style, but to each her own).  Bright vibrant colors lay against their tan skin, whether it’s spray tanned or “sun” tanned and it is color in motion…  I felt like I was back at the Jersey Shore; however, the water was at least 78 in April.

Even though I lived right up the street in New York, I’ve noticed the vast difference in style.  I get it, being close to the beach makes you want to flaunt and tempt, and considering it is “sticky” there, you want to wear less clothing.  However, my Mama always told me: classy…not trashy, and that goes for all girls out there regardless of where you live (and your age)!  So, keep it tucked in girls and leave at least one thing up to a man’s imagination.

I spent my days taking in the scenery on Lincoln, Collins and Bal Harbour.  It was nice to walk around and check out the shops.  There was everything from H&M to Hermes.  There were lots of cafes, outdoor restaurants, and tons of people watching.  I came across everything from nice to naughty, too hot to haggard, and ignorant to intelligent.  SoBe like any other place has its mix of the melting pot and that made for a fun filled, fascinating people fest!

The mighty Atlantic welcomed me back with warm, calm waves.  It was so beautiful, and being able to swim and see my toes made me miss my carefree adolescent days.  It was fun to “play” and was the best part of my trip!

Some of my favorite places:

Fontainebleau

Havana

SLS Hotel

I was happy to get back to reality (as close as you can get in Cali), and felt right at home running in my stilettos and wearing more than a bikini.

It was quite an experience, and one I’ll never forget…however, I’ll try.

xo, jo

What colors come to mind when you think of spring?  Most would answer the obvious colors: pink, violet, emerald, poppy, blue, lemon (just to name a few).  That spectrum goes through my “average” mind.  Now, can you imagine the color range that goes through the “Jimmy Hendrix” mind of a designer?  Truly, they are brilliant in their own hemisphere, and I can’t help but marvel at their brain waves.

Their mission: Come up with a line that is inspiring, exciting, and different.  Try not to repeat history and don’t you ever copy your peer’s work.  No worries…the world is only watching…

With New York fashion week gone in a New York minute, and waking to the sound of Spring chirping every morning, girls around the world are eagerly awaiting fun, flirty spring excitement to adorn their bodies with!  Gentlemen, start your engines; spring is here and summer is closing in.  Goodbye to sweaters, boots, and parkas, and hello to cute dresses, shorts, and bikinis!

So what is your target this spring?  The first item on my agenda is always cute dresses.  I love maxi dresses (not fond of the name – reminds me of feminine products) and short flirty “lookers” to show off my cheerleading legs (something I never liked).

The other day I stopped by Irene’s story  I had “tried” to spend money there several times, but I just couldn’t figure out “Irene’s Story.”  It seemed more like a “secret” to me and I wasn’t privy to that information.  Well, I was in luck when I finally found out what the story was; keep an open mind when shopping here and never give up!  I scored this very cute and comfortable maxi dress (hate the name, yes I said that before) for $36.00.  I paired it with these adorable/hot shoes from hinge (at Nordstrom) for $89.95 (I had a $20 Nordstrom note).  On my way out to a birthday dinner for my two (out of three) besties, I stopped for the paparazzi in my living room.

Some of my favorites:

Bebe – Yellow Organza Dress

BCBG Max Azria – Marion Printer Halter Dress

Michael Kors – Printed Layered Maxi Dress

RED Valentino - Printed Dress

As I comb through some of my favorite Glam magazines (InStyle, Vogue, Elle), there is a color explosion like the Fourth of July – pops of color that could light up the night!  I’m like Pavlov’s dog, as I see bright vibrant color my heart skips a beat (in a good way) and no Prozac is needed to make me happy!   There are more colors than Nicky’s Crayola box and I want it all…

As I head off to L.A. today excited about vintage shopping (like it’s a 1^st grade field trip), I will remember to put the top down on my car and head up the 405, driving like an East-coaster and showing off my pop of color – a brunette with a flash of coral!

To be confident with color, you need to be confident within your skin!

xo, jo

Where do I begin, and how do I get your attention?  Let’s talk about BREASTS!  Does that work?

I don’t know one person who doesn’t like breasts.  They’re beautiful in their own way and size, they serve a purpose (nothing to do with men, I’m talking about feeding our children), and they round out a women’s body.  To babies, they are nourishment, to men or women they are a nice asset to look at, but to women who battle breast cancer, they can become a showstopper.  Since the majority of people like them, we need to do everything to preserve them and the people who are literally attached to them.

I personally know women who have lost their lives to breast cancer, and I myself am challenged in this department.  When I look in the mirror I think, “I like my breasts”, then a millisecond later I think, “God I hope I don’t get breast cancer.”  It’s a frightening thought; however, it should be a thought that propels us in a positive direction.  Stand up and conquer!  These are warrior words, because that’s what women are – WARRIORS!

Through the years of hard work and dedication of others, great light has been shed on this cause because of the great losses due to breast cancer.  We love our loved ones, we want them around forever and when we no longer can hear their voices or feel their touch, we find a way to connect, stand up for them, and perpetuate their existence.  We desire to keep their memory alive and save those who battle the same illness.

We are women, and united we are a force to be reckoned with!  I’m grateful to be a woman.  I can do everything a man can do and more!  This is pretty powerful when you think of it, and what melts my heart, brings tears to my eyes, and inspires me is seeing women hand in hand crossing the finish line for life!

In July 2013, Walk the Walk will bring The MoonWalk marathon from the United Kingdom to America for the first time to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer   At 10 p.m., on July 20, 2013.  Thousands of women and men will power walk through the city wearing brightly decorated bras to inspire and encourage.  The thought of seeing a man in a decorated bra certainly inspires me!  Let’s stick the men in heels while we’re at it and put a 9 month pregnant prosthetic belly on them!

Officials are estimating around 8,000 participants and the opening ceremony will take place at Randall’s Island, which is an oasis located in the middle of New York City.  It comprises of an island in the East River between East Harlem, the South Bronx and Astoria, Queens.  Walkers will then depart on a 26.2 mile route, which will weave its way through Manhattan past the city’s most iconic landmarks, lit up brightly at night.  What a truly inspiring event, in a truly inspiring location!  Take it from a New Yorker—there is nothing like the city that never sleeps!

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.  Wherever you are, stop and look around.  Count to eight and if you are a woman, don’t forget to include yourself in that number.  Scary, isn’t it?  What’s even more scary is people just talking and not walking.

The Moonwalk is presented by Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and it hopes to raise two million dollars in one night!  Can we do it? Yes we can!  Since its inception sixteen years ago in London, Walk the Walk, a grant making charity, has engaged over 300,000 participants and has raised over $126 million to support breast cancer research and those affected by cancer now.

I lost both of my parents within two years of each other, and during the “quiet” moments I can hear either one of them speak to me (even if it’s in my head).  As I write this article, I can hear my Dad saying something to me that he has said ever since I can remember (and I have lived by these words).  “Joanne, everybody can talk, but can they walk?”  He meant that people can say whatever they want, but how many people will actually “walk” behind their words?

It’s New York City, it’s where dreams are made, and there’s nothing you can’t do…  Are you going to walk behind your words?

Do it for yourself, do it for a loved one, do it for a friend, but just do it…

xo, jo

Did you know that the very first New York fashion week took place in 1943? It was called “Press Week” and it was the world’s first-ever organized fashion week by Eleanor Lambert. The intent was to showcase American designers (whose designs were neglected) and those who were unable to high-tail it to Paris to see the “French” fashion shows. Needless to say, it was a success and ballers like Vogue who normally kissed French designers were now opening their kissing booth to American fashion!

Well, thank you Ms. Eleanor (you sweet Indiana girl) for taking the bull by the horns and standing when no one else had the guts to. A spunky chick who landed in Manhattan and gave us girls and designers what we deserved (you’re my kinda girl)!

So, let’s talk fashion at fashion week. Here’s just a few of my Broadway play moments (good & bad):

1. Betsey Johnson: Love her quirky style; however, it looks like my box of Froot Loops exploded!

2. Falguni & Shane: Honestly I like it (I’m kind of thinking Christian Grey) and yes, I kinda like it (tie anyone)?

3. Charlotte Ronson: Did someone forget to tell her, “No pj’s on the catwalk?”

4. David Hart: David Bowie meets Men at Work meets afternoon tea and scones anyone?

• Okay, so….fur is not acceptable unless you go through a skinning yourself (just once)!

• Bold splash of color is always a good wake-up call.

• Sparkling embellishments, always fun and flirty—just don’t wear them on your bra and put a sheer blouse over it!

• Cozy chic – pj’s with a blazer is downright lazy and gross.

• Slender silhouettes – hence the word “slender” guess I won’t be wearing that. How big is your target audience?

• Deep necklines and sheer silhouettes—again, hello…Mr. Grey…

It all starts with a thought that turns into a dream and hopefully your reality. It is born out of frustration, grows into determination, and reveals itself to be innovation.

Dare to dream, dare to explore, dare to be…
xo, jo
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It’s Christmas in February, and it’s certainly cold enough to be when you’re in NYC!  I was just in the city the beginning of December (check out my Nothing Beats a Jersey girl) and when I’m home, I come alive to the sounds of the hustle and bustle, taxi cabs, chatter of strangers, and the beautiful melody of New York!  I visit every year to awaken my senses and come back to life (it’s sort of like a blood transfusion for me).

As I write this article, my heart is skipping a beat just knowing that it’s Fashion Week!  My brain can’t keep up with the thoughts of the most amazing designers corralled into a square block, planning their shows and the hordes of people dying to get close to “beauty.”  As I sit on my bed 3,000 miles away, I whimper knowing I’m here and the beauty is “there!”  On my bucket list: Michael Kors fashion show.  I just love MK and I pray one day I’ll be sitting (any row will do) watching his creations walk down the runway.  If I can’t wait till one day, maybe I’ll pull a New York moment and James Bond it into the show!  Michael, if you can hear me….help out a fellow New Yorker!

Okay, enough with my whining – let’s talk fashion!  I have my moments when it comes to fashion.  There are styles that I refuse to revisit (peplum, paisley, floral, and LEG WARMERS, just to name a few), and styles I would sleep in.  It basically comes down to my mood and comfort level (a martini can always help me find my comfort zone).  I’m a tomboy who can walk out of the house looking like a princess or leather it up till the sun comes up!  There are two things I keep in mind when I’m getting dressed:

1. Put the light on.

2. Remember my age.

I remember my first introduction to the world of fashion.  I was a sophomore at Mahwah High School and my college (yes, college) boyfriend’s mother worked for Shiseido at Bloomingdales at Riverside Square Mall.  We met in October and two months later I walked downstairs into their family room and under the Christmas tree were (no kidding) so many presents, it was criminal!  I remember standing there trembling on the inside, ready to scream with joy, and thinking oh, Carmin must be pissed!  They were the loveliest people I have ever met and I was treated like the daughter they never had (I think of them often and pray the best for them).  I was so overwhelmed I didn’t know where to start (the beginning I thought, but where was that)?  An hour later, I was surrounded by a Gucci purse, cashmere sweaters, jackets, boots, jewelry, makeup, opium perfume, and jordache jeans (loved those jeans)!  She introduced me to the world of fashion and beauty and taught me how to dress and wear makeup.  I learned a lot from Carmin’s mother and his grandmother (Mom-Mom).  These women were glamorous and exuded grace and charm with Jersey laughter to fill in the gaps!  That was my first taste of beauty and I was never going to go a day without indulging in it!

As time went on, I became more infatuated with fashion.  I would spend my money on Vogue, Elle, Glamour, any fashion magazine in the “eye” candy isle.  I would rather eat fashion than food (no, not what you’re thinking-girls…eat your dinner)!  The models are gorgeous and the clothing that fit their body was as if Picasso painted it on them.  The models are beautiful in their own way, but when the designs were placed on them, they came alive like a moving art show.  The poses, looks in their eyes, and the role they played brought the clothing to life.

My favorite moments thus far from fashion week:

Kenneth Cole

DVF!

I believe designers dare to color outside of the lines, dare to be different, and dare to dream.

All the things we were told in kindergarten, and regardless of your age, I dare you…

xo, jo

Jo in Dolce&Gabbana

Do I have your attention now…?

I stopped by Nordstrom Rack in Laguna Hills. I was curious to see what didn’t sell at the “perfect” store and why it was shipped to the land of “misfit” apparel, accessories, and shoe island.

I’ve been to the “misfit” store back home on the East Coast (Paramus, NJ), and I like to compare everything – so bring on the West Coast! It must be the esthetician in me, sizing things up, and comparing (which should not be construed as a bad thing).

Being fairly new to Orange County, CA, my new friends are always telling me to check out this or that place. On my to-do list is a Cosmopolitan/Sex in the City dream called Fashion Island in Newport. I haven’t gotten there yet, but when I do, you will certainly know (I see a reality show on the horizon with a title like that)!

When I shop, I shop with the average girl’s wallet in mind (because that’s my wallet), and when I write, I try to “super size” the meal without the calories. I want my LC friends to walk away thinking, “Jo gave me great ideas, told me where to shop for nice things (at a good price) and didn’t throw in my face a Chanel bag that I can only dream of” (which, by the way, I still don’t own one).

So, back to my original thought. Let’s compare East vs. West racks! I love to shop, but only for a good deal. I like the challenge and always have a coffee on hand to help me through the rigors of such a sporting event.

I’m the kind of girl that needs to be aesthetically stimulated, and sometimes it’s hard for a store to pull off showcasing a ton of misfit merchandise and still look appealing. Regardless of the location, both stores pulled it off. Both locations are large, and of course have so many options. At times, it can blow my mind. Forget the coffee; they should sell cocktails while shopping!

Because of the climate difference, I think Laguna Hills has more “summertime” type clothing, where Paramus changes its stock according to the seasons (makes sense, Cali has pretty much one season). I have to say, I still find it difficult dressing in Southern California. I was out the other day wearing jeans, boots, camisole, blazer, and a fedora. At the same time I walked by a woman in shorts and flip-flops! What the hell…it’s January people! Just a hint: I don’t blend well and will not conform! I am definitely the Marisa Tomei (I just love her) of SoCal (just imagine me stomping my foot)!

Coach boots!

Gucci Wristlet

If you have the time, you can find some great deals. I scored these adorable Coach boots ($150.00) and Tory Burch jacket ($189.00). If you notice in my winery picture with my gorgeous friends, I am also sporting a Gucci bag. Truth be told, I purchased this bag from Bluefly three years ago. I didn’t pay full price (around $700), and I also purchased this Gucci wristlet (around $290-ish). My grand total was $1,000-ish for both bags and that was a bargain (it was my Christmas/birthday present). Here’s another piece of juicy information: because of my upbringing, when I purchase something, I will have it for the rest of my life (I mean it), especially when it costs this much money! I’m not the kind of girl who throws her money away and complains she doesn’t have anything nice. When I wanted to go to college – I paid for it, as well as real estate school, esthetician school, my wedding, house, cars, everything! It’s a good feeling to take ownership of yourself, be proud, and to owe others NOTHING!

Jo (left) in Tory Burch

So here are a few tips on savvy shopping:

1. Save, save, save, for that rainy day.
2. Go online and compare prices.
3. Don’t just buy because you can.
4. Go for a beautiful staple piece
5. Jackets, purses, dresses, and shoes are my staple items.
6. Go designer vintage – but make it a staple item!

Some of my favorite online stores:
• Bluefly
• Nasty Gal
• Zappos
• Net-A-Porter

I am a firm believer that you should never pay full price when shopping. Take your time, plan ahead, and only get what you need. If an item has taken you hostage, get free, think about it, and if necessary go back to the store tomorrow with handcuffs!

xo, jo

p.s.  I would love to see you in your favorite “staples!”

Jo in Temecula

Old Gringo “Julie” Boots

I went a little country the other night (and….I liked it)!

All these years I’ve spent on this planet, I have never gone to a Country Bar!  I don’t even know of any back on the East coast.  So, the other night I pulled on my new Old Gringo Cowboy boots and high-tailed it to Montana’s in San Dimas, CA.

I have to be honest – I really liked it!  The feel of the joint, the music, and how nice the people were left me feeling good, and I wanted to “boot scoot” in the near future.  I was amazed by the dynamic in the place.  It was jammed packed with people of all ages dressed in costume (it was a Halloween themed night).  I talked with many people about country bar customs, and here’s what I learned:

1. Keep an open mind!
2. Take basic line dancing lessons.
3. Have fun!
4. Don’t be surprised when strangers ask you to dance (and don’t be surprised when strangers ask your significant other to dance)!

I totally get 1-3; however, number 4 took me by surprise!  It is true, when you go to a country bar strangers will approach you and ask you to dance.  That doesn’t mean they want anything more than that.  It just means they want to dance on the floor and no place else.  I was surprised by this (reflecting back to the bars I have been to).  The “country boys” are gentlemen regarding dancing, and even if you are with your significant other, they will ask your significant other if they can dance with you.  They’re either really nice or they have taken shadiness to a whole other level.

I explained this to several people who have never been to a country bar and of course they reacted as expected.  They thought it was crazy (and I agree with them – to a point).  You have to be there to see it for yourself and quite honestly, it’s pretty innocent.  No, I’m not naïve (I’m a New York girl and I know there are people out there who want to dance in other places than the dance floor)!

So, let’s talk fashion!  My costume was New York girl gone Cowgirl!  The typical country bar fashion is of course cowboy (girl) boots, jeans, shorts, a plaid shirt, cute ruffle shirt, t-shirt, and a cowboy hat!  It seems basic, but basic can always cross over to bodacious (very quickly)!

Combine that with alcohol and country western music, and I hear a Carrie Underwood song coming on!

Halloween Night at Montana’s

do-si-do

xo, jo

I can smell it…well, if I was back in upstate New York I would—the smell of Fall, the anticipation of a new year, crisp mornings, and sunny afternoons.

With the smell of Fall comes the smell of fall fashion (like a new car smell).  You’re excited to try it on and take it for a test ride.  I often wonder what the trends will be this year and how far the designers will need to travel back in time to jumpstart their creative juices.

The other night, I checked out fall fashions here in California.  I was excited, Christmas had come early, and I got to sneak a peek into Santa’s sack of toys!  So what’s new and exciting with a Fall twist?

• Florals (not a big fan of in any capacity).
• Leather (which I totally love)!
• Bejeweled dresses, jackets, sweaters, purses – you name it (I only like bejeweled shoes).
• Sensual dresses that are refined (sort of stuffy and prude, but give me a couple drinks – still on the fence about that one).
• Last but not least black & gold (every woman deserves to be a goddess)!

That’s just the tip of the iceberg.  There are suits, full skirts, winter white-everything, and curvy, and bodacious-you name it!

Since I cannot view all the eye candy drinking a cocktail (which I would love to), I grab a cup of joe (Starbuck’s style) and jump right in!  There are times I cannot focus and find myself spinning like a top.  I’m in total fashion overload, and I am not heading to rehab!  To quote a fellow Jersey girl, “I could die!”  Do you know who I am talking about?

You must realize that with fashion come extremes, just like life and people (did you read my toxic article)?  You can go classy or trashy.  Sometimes I think to myself, “oh that is just a Jimmy Hendrix moment” (don’t give me grief, I love Jimmy), but I remind myself that you can take one part of your body and focus it with one trend and balance out the rest to showcase your direction.  For instance, if you want to wear a floral dress, then don’t add floral shoes, a floral hat, floral panties, and floral gloves (get it)?

I stopped by Bebe because I heard London was calling.  The girls are sweet and helpful and what girl can’t have a conversation about fashion—well, I know a few.  I fell in love (all over again) with houndstooth and I just love this dress:http://www.bebe.com/bebe-Houndstooth-Ponte-Peplum-Dress/dp/B007YGYUTA  I tried it on and Stephanie (a Bebe staffer) also had it on, so we took a moment and took a picture.  This dress was comfortable and cute and you can tell we are both happy in it.  I remember back in my corporate days wearing a houndstooth skirt and pairing it with black heels (red on a Friday) and a silky white blouse with a bow tie.  It’s a gorgeous pattern and I’m glad someone went into their closet and re-introduced it to the world.

For those budget conscious gals out there (and nowadays, who isn’t), pick up a style magazine, circle what you like then head straight to the stores that don’t clean out your bank account.  Go online, go to overstocks, watch an item ‘till it goes on sale, and look online for coupons.  I almost never pay full price and you don’t have to either.

This past weekend I stopped by Nordstrom and took a peek in the Junior’s department.  I had $20 in Nordstrom Notes and found an adorable jeans jacket.  Retail $59.00 but ended up walking away with it for $39.00.  Instead of spending the other $20 on coffee (which is my vice) I also got a cute scarf for $18.00. (see links below)

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bp-essential-denim-jacket-juniors/3200829?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Dark+Wash&resultback=389   http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/lulu-print-scarf/3334156?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Camel&resultback=551

The moral of the story is you can participate in fashion trends, but be careful not to turn into a fashion nightmare.  Use coupons and take the time to find or wait for a deal.  Patience my friends…

What’s your FFF (Fall Fashion Favorite)?  Send me pics – I’d love to see them!

xo,jo

Jo’s Toes

As I stare at my cute pedicured feet, I can’t help but admire my new toe ring.  For some reason when people hear the word feet or toes it makes them cringe.  I’m not sure why (at times I feel the same way), is it because we think feet are dirty (and some are), some are gross to look at, and well…smell?

For the record, I happen to like the way my feet look, and my friends always laugh at me when I say that.  My Dad had “nice-looking” feet and so do I.  Sorry to all you jealous people, blame it on genetics!  My feet are sexy and they know it!

I recently checked out the Saw Dust Festival in Laguna Beach, CA. www.sawdustartfestival.org   I wanted something fun to do with my sons on my birthday and boys typically don’t get into “girly” things, so Magic Mike was out (reserved for my girlfriends)!

As we walked around the Saw Dust Festival admiring the crafts and drinking a frozen margarita (I only had one), I came across a toe ring booth.  It was decked out with a sitting area, music was playing, and had a wide range of toe rings.  You couldn’t help but get sucked in and want to bling out your toes!

My new friend John (the owner of this fun establishment) helped me pick out the perfect toe ring.  He knew a lot about them and had an eye for piecing together the perfect look (I think he had a thing for feet).  He has been wearing a toe ring for about 30 years (I felt no need to see it)!  As you can tell by our picture (at the end of article), he couldn’t keep his eyes off my cute East Coast toes!

I remember spending my summers in LBI (Long Beach Island), which is exit 63 of the GSP (Garden State Parkway) in New Jersey (Shout-out to my Jersey friends) and showing off my toe rings.  When you meet someone from Jersey, they will ask you, “What exit are you on the parkway?”  Romance is determined by exits in Jersey, and if you are a lifeguard, well that is certainly taken into consideration.  Take Skip, my 8^th grade summer boyfriend for example  (from Island Beach State Park), the only blonde lifeguard I ever dated – he was hot and built.  I, like most women have a “thing” for men in uniforms (for me: lifeguards and surfers – my kind of uniforms)!  The beach is the perfect place to display your pedicured toes bedazzled with toe rings.  It’s Summertime and you’re feeling cute, or maybe sexy walking on the boardwalk or dancing the night away!  If we are going to tan our bodies, paint our toes, and wear sexy heels, why not bedazzle our toes with silver, gold, and even diamond rings?  I have been wearing toe rings since 7^th grade.  They are fun, there’s no big commitment, no piercing involved, and they bling out your feet.  If you have ugly feet (fess up, some people do), they are a great distraction!

Toe rings have a rich history behind them.  In India, married Hindu women traditionally wore a large ring on the big toe of their left foot, which is called bichiya in Hindi, and in some cultures, men wear toe rings on their big toes as a symbol of their masculine vigor (hmmm….I like the sound of that)!

A big thanks to Majorie Borell, who introduced toe rings to the States.  After returning from India she began manufacturing and selling them in New York in 1973.  She had a trendy retail store called Fiorucci that was located on 59^thStreet.  She sold toe rings in silver, gold, and with diamonds.  In the U.S. toe rings have no special meaning other than a fashion statement and accessory, which is fine to me – sometimes things just need to be “fun and easy!”

Jayden’s cute feet!

I found out that toe rings are enjoyed by adorable girls as young as six (notice my cute toe model Jayden) to my new friend John (not advertising his age).  This fun fashion accessory is not exclusive to certain countries, age or even sex.  Here are a couple of sites I like: www.bodycandy.com and www.toerings.com.

This is a guilt-free treat.  No big purchase necessary, remove it when you feel like it, and when you’re having an “off” day – throw on a toe ring to brighten your step!

Jo&John (Toe Envy)

xo,jo

It has been a whirlwind of a year! I moved my family 3,000 miles across the country, sent my 17 year old son back to finish high school in Ramsey, New Jersey, lost my Mom, and tripped over so many hurdles that I will be scarred forever.

During this process, I kept reminding myself that with great change comes great sacrifice and pain, but also: growth, appreciation, and a huge serving of “humble pie.”

I have attempted this enormous task many times in my life, however; I realize that the universe needed to “approve” before granting my wish. Oh, my wish was definitely granted and I was not prepared for everything that came along with it!

At the end of this daunting process, I headed back to New Jersey to see my eldest son graduate and grow into a man that I am proud to call my son, and to humbly thank the families who took care of my son after my Mom passed away. It is true, it takes a village to raise a child—I just didn’t realize that this village was 3,000 miles across the country.

I do believe that everyone deserves a second chance, and after taking my own advice, I happily became closer to someone that I didn’t give a “real” chance to before. I refuse to be delusional when it comes to myself and my “shortcomings”, and I am thankful that I was allowed to clean off my slate and start again with a wonderful woman who introduced me to her fabulous family.

We all broke bread together, and during that process a special bond was formed (for me). I enjoyed sitting at the head of the table and every once in a while glancing around at the beautiful people who freed up their busy schedules to spend time with me.

I think one of the things I truly love about women is the knack of finding a common ground when it comes to our looks and the “Barbie doll” syndrome. Don’t get me wrong, I played with Barbie dolls and also had a Ken doll. They of course got married, lived in a three-story penthouse, and Barbie went on to keep her figure even after having many children (minus the cosmetic procedures)!

I have taken a stroll down the cosmetic procedure lane, and I realized that in order to help others and release them from their demons, I needed to stand naked in Times Square. By that, I mean I needed to release my demons and be truthful with others so they can help themselves on any level they needed to.

I am certain that if more women “exposed” their secrets, there would be less mudslinging between us!

During the course of our 3 ½ hour dinner (which took place at a fabulous restaurant in Park Ridge, New Jersey called Valentinos), http://valentinosrestaurantparkridge.com/ we talked, yelled, laughed, and shared “secrets” with each other. I think at times we surprised ourselves as well as each other. I absolutely love those moments! How many times have we had “real” moments with once strangers, sort of acquaintances, now family?

We talked about eyelash extensions, Ultherapy, www.ultherapy.com eye lifts, breast augmentations, liposuction, tummy tucks, laser hair removal, Brazilian hair straightening treatments, makeup and of course fashion.

I was surrounded by amazing women, ranging in age from 11 to let’s say over 60. I personally sat between an adorable 15 year old girl who loves fashion as much as I do and an amazing God sent woman who I personally want to adopt as my stepmom. Even with the vast age difference, both women sang the same tune when it came to all things girls like, dislike, cannot live without and would like to quickly forget! Once again, I was moved by the moment and surprised that regardless of age, the little girl in us lives on until death do us part.

Even though the evening was choc-full with enough stimuli to take down a rhino, there were certain things that stood out to me from each woman:

• The young beautiful Julia to the left of me: her shiny hair, beautiful eyes, and adorable Coach Shoes.

• The intelligent, striking Amanda: her classic beauty and beautiful eye makeup that propelled her eyes (in a good way) and drew me into her youthful soul.

• The lovely, striking Joyce, whose hair was beyond gorgeous with long, loose, soft curls and her delicate flawless skin that could light up NYC all on its own.

• Daniella, who shocked me when I first saw her (she has changed so much in one year); she’s got an awesome, strong, personality and her height rivals the greatest models with her striking features. I was taken by her beauty and self confidence at such a young age.

• I will never forget the youngest, but well established Alani. I never remember being well understood at such a young age. She was sweet, stood on her own two feet, looked fashionable and adorable and her light and appropriate makeup could not compete with the compelling bone structure of her face. Her smile lit up my soul.

• I loved Belki…a strong, funny woman who with every word left me wanting to hear more and her facial features were well defined. I kept thinking this woman needed no trip to any surgeon—she was born that way and extremely lucky (and I was jealous)!

• Tammy was someone I could talk to for hours. She makes me laugh, says what’s on “my mind” and her beauty surpassed any boundaries. She’s a gorgeous woman inside and out with a fun flirty personality that left me thankful for my second chance.

• Last but certainly not least was Marta. I feel that she was a gift for all us women to learn from. She was stylish, wore jewelry that I wanted to take off her, and showed me that as we age we can still hold onto our beauty. I was left knowing that she would be my role model when it came to humor, intelligence, beauty, wisdom, kindness and independence. She was the VIP (Very Impressive Presence).

My take away: age—no problem and looks—all different and perfect in their own way. Intelligence was not limited to the elders. Concerns crossed every generation and the strength of a woman – unattainable by any man!

Carry on ladies, and continue to do what we have and will always do – carry on!

A Mother’s Love

Proud to be a woman…xo, jo