Florence Italy Tomorrow!

I can't believe that I am jetting off to Florence tomorrow, it seems so crazy and so surreal. My mother-in-law was asked to show a piece of artwork there and she invited me as well as her brother-in-law, Dick, his daughter/her niece,Kristina, and Kristina's close girlfriend, Jen, to go along too. So I happily said yes and well, the rest is history.

I am very excited to spend a week with family, eat gelato, thin pizza, shop, sightsee, see the Christmas decorations and just enjoy a fun getaway. I will check back in with you all next Monday when I return. Until then ciao!

Uncle Dick and Kristina

My mother-in-law and me at my engagement party in CT

Inspirational Quote Friday

Happy Friday, ladies and gentleman! I love this quote I found on fb and think that it fits perfectly for me because although I can't see the whole big picture right now I know everything will make sense when I look back years from now. I do agree that challenges strength a person and hopefully make you more appreciative for all that you have in this world.

I feel a little uneasy about the fact that I don't have a job yet since moving out to CA-anyone know people who are hiring for part time or full time event planning/marketing related jobs hit me up :). I mean between going back to the East Coast several times this summer, I haven't really settled down since September and the hubby has told me to take it slow and find my ideal job, one that makes me truly happy and fulfilled since my last gig was truly miserable. I mean I am very grateful but sometimes I feel anxiety, lacking purpose and stuck. Normal, I hope?! I'm still settling in to CA life and being far away from everything I've ever known-missing my girlfriends-- horribly at times, dreaming about being a homeowner at some point down the road..., thinking about babies in the next few years, having a pup who is now 6 months old. There is a lot swirling around in my head and a lot of changes going on in my life so I am really trying to adapt and take risks and put myself out there. Here is to new adventures and a lovely, relaxing weekend ahead! WahooooOOOOOoooooo

Holiday Wish List

2011 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE INSPIRATION

They’re girls who have pretty much everything, but Kourtney and Khloé Kardashian are still hoping Santa will leave a few fashionable gifts under their trees this year. The reality stars are two of many celebs sharing their holiday wish lists with StyleFind.com, and we have a sneak peek at what they’re clamoring for.

Aside from lusting after boots and a jacket from her Kardashian Kollection for Sears, Kourtneywants a simple Rachel Roy dress (top right, $645). “Black and white is just so chic, especially with leather accents,” she tells StyleFind. Other essentials include Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream (“I live for this stuff,” she says of the $17 lotion, bottom right), an Alice + Olivia faux fur vest(bottom left, $330) and Philosophy Gingerbread Man body scrub (top left, $25). “Seasonal and practical,” she shares.

Khloé also has Kardashian Kollection goods on her list, she’s hoping for a Rachel Rachel Roy cardigan (top right, $89), too. “They’re my favorite things to wear when it’s cold out,” she reveals. A Rag & Bone hat is next on the list (“This fit is great for me,” she says of the $150 topper, bottom right), followed by Current/Elliott’s ever-popular leopard-print stretch jeans (bottom left, $198). But perhaps the Philosophy Strawberry Milkshake 3-in-1 (top left, $16) is the most personal; she shares, “This is Lamar and my favorite bubble bath scent.”

Oprah's Gift Guide and favorite things are always a must!

I can't believe it is already December! It was just Fall, where does the time go? I hear the clock ticking to get our tree up, the Christmas shopping completed, the Christmas cards sent out and it goes on and on. For now here is some fun Gift Guide inspiration. What's on your list this year?

Some of my wish items are:

1.) A Navy Barbour Quilted Jacket

2.) A Monogrammed Gold Signature Necklace (w. my new married name!)

3.) A recipe box-preferrably one to remind me of my dear East Coast/New England

4.) A Clarisonic Mia-so I can use both at home and when traveling

We all claim we don't need anything but the want feelings are always there of lovely items dancing in our heads over and over again :) Happy December first everyone, may the holiday season be full of good health, yummy treats, family and lots of love xoxo

{images and text from people.com/stylefind.com/stylemaniac.blogspot.com/oprah.com/todayimwearing.com/barbour.com/marleylilly.com}

A New England Thanksgiving

I am thankful for: my wonderful husband who supports and loves me every day and who truly is my best friend and partner through all of life's up's and down's...

my kind-hearted and warm parents whose love, patience and encouragement I value every day for they are inspiring role models...

my brother whose comical ways and sarcasm brings laughter to the room when ever I am around him...

my sister-in-law, as I feel so lucky to call her my sister and have her in my life...

my extended families for whom I love so deeply and the traditions we've created together that I cherish, as it is the very core of my traditional, New England self...

my girlfriends who bring endless smiles to my face, their constant and never fading love, and faith in me drives me forward constantly....

my little Louie who has changed our lives in such a positive way, he is such a loving little guy who always has a kiss ready for me...

my health that I am thankful for each and every day...

and lastly, my privilege to be part of this great world and be alive today.

sibling & spouses group shot

sleepy in CT!

baked brie with cranberries, I look forward to this goody every year

my place setting done by my mom, a one-of-a-kind decorator and entertainer

love these printables

Debbie's beautiful pumpkin pie with a turkey too

lovely acorn, leaf, and Thanksgiving pieces cover the table

Mr. Turkey is pretty handsome if I do say so myself, brining really does the trick

nothing can get between me and my stuffing. my FAVORITE side dish of all time

requested my mom's awesome pumpkin cheesecake too and it was amazing

little Louie taking a time out from all of the action

Christmas tree hunting...

I was obsessed with how unique their wreaths were and was sad I couldn't bring a wreath with us to CA

my parents' tree which took a total of 5 mins to pick out-it was already cut down and after everyone agreed the fullness and height of the tree were perfect, it was tagged. Keep in mind this tree is 11 feet tall--ohh to have nice high ceilings!

a family portrait-I'm looking a little gross in this one but at least we are all together

Louie's new stick, we ever let him go home with his little treasure :) I mean come on, how proud does he look?!

!MICHIGAN FEVER SET IN RIGHT AROUND NOW~

prayers before the game

my mom's famous sausage and cheese dip which is now a Carta family staple

everyone was dressed up to watch the game, even Lou

before things got all serious!

cuties

Louie taking another time out from the game...plopped next to the ice bucket :)

they did it, GO BLUE!!!!

I love this toast shot, too funny

My Connecticut besties stopped by to meet the little guy and even though it was only for a short visit, the time spent with friends is always savored..mwah