On Saturday I will be walking in the Stroll for Strong Kids to raise money for Golisano Children's Hospital. It will be my third year participating in the event as it is a cause near and dear to my heart. I've always supported causes that benefit childhood cancer, whether it be on the research end, for specific hospitals, or to help a family pay for treatment. It wasn't until I moved to Rochester that I knew anyone who had lost a child to cancer. It breaks my heart to say that I don't only know one family who suffered such an unspeakable loss: I know three. So this year I am walking in memory of Kennedy Bucklin, Anthony Poselovich, and Lauren Olander: three sweet children who lost their battles with cancer and left this world too soon.
Today I am asking you to give, give a little bit, to support Stroll for Strong Kids and Golisano Children's Hospital. All three families will be walking. All of them continue to give of themselves, their time, and their talents, in memory of their children, to help other families and save lives. Please do what you can, no amount is too small. You can donate here.
In addition, I will personally donate $1 for every new "like" and "share"of this fundraising link on The Flower City Fashionista facebook page up to $150.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Monday, May 28, 2012
On Turning 30, Memorial Day, and Fallen Heroes
Turning 30 was anticlimactic. I still feel like I'm 14 (aside from the bad back and that whole being married with children thing). Besides, isn't 30 the new 20 anyway!?!
And speaking of 20, my twenties were pretty damn good. I met the love of my life at the ripe old age of 21, graduated from college and went on to earn my Masters. I bought a house, got married, and moved to Rochester. I gave birth to the two most amazing little boys on the planet. And I think I finally figured out what I want to be when I grow up! (Maybe!)
Thirty might have been scary if I was at a different place in my life, but I can't help but feel like I have so much to look forward to and this is only the beginning.
My 30th birthday celebration began the weekend prior in a limousine and ended Saturday night at Thirsty's in Pittsford, where I may or may not have met my first serial killer (but that's another story for another day). All in all, I had back to back amazing weekends, celebrating with family and friends. What more could a girl ask for?
Besides a new Michael Kors watch of course:
In the end, I'm well aware that I am a very lucky girl and blessed in more ways that I ever could have dreamed. So glad that you all are along for the ride!
I realize this should be two posts, but do to residual back issues, my birthday post didn't go up as scheduled, so let's just change gears, shall we?
Happy Memorial Day everybody! I hope you all spent the weekend celebrating with loved ones, barbecuing out back, taking in a parade, running through a sprinkler, or all of the above. And to all those serving and who have served - thank you for your sacrifice. My prayers go out to all those families who have lost loved ones fighting for our great nation. Let's all take a moment to remember that our freedom isn't free. God bless you and God bless the USA!
xoxo
Jenny
PS- In honor of Memorial Day, why not make this fashion statement?
And speaking of 20, my twenties were pretty damn good. I met the love of my life at the ripe old age of 21, graduated from college and went on to earn my Masters. I bought a house, got married, and moved to Rochester. I gave birth to the two most amazing little boys on the planet. And I think I finally figured out what I want to be when I grow up! (Maybe!)
Thirty might have been scary if I was at a different place in my life, but I can't help but feel like I have so much to look forward to and this is only the beginning.
My 30th birthday celebration began the weekend prior in a limousine and ended Saturday night at Thirsty's in Pittsford, where I may or may not have met my first serial killer (but that's another story for another day). All in all, I had back to back amazing weekends, celebrating with family and friends. What more could a girl ask for?
Besides a new Michael Kors watch of course:
 |
| Present from the Hubs via Cornell's |
Birthday outfit:
 |
| In the shade. Mossimo for Target shoes and shades, Artwark necklace, Michael Kors watch, anthropologie dress and bracelet, Fahsye ring, Stacey Kay Collection earrings |
 |
| Fixing the 'do |
 |
| I need a new pose. And a new driveway apparently... |
 |
| Accessories Closeup. OPI Are We There Yet? Polish |
In the end, I'm well aware that I am a very lucky girl and blessed in more ways that I ever could have dreamed. So glad that you all are along for the ride!
I realize this should be two posts, but do to residual back issues, my birthday post didn't go up as scheduled, so let's just change gears, shall we?
Happy Memorial Day everybody! I hope you all spent the weekend celebrating with loved ones, barbecuing out back, taking in a parade, running through a sprinkler, or all of the above. And to all those serving and who have served - thank you for your sacrifice. My prayers go out to all those families who have lost loved ones fighting for our great nation. Let's all take a moment to remember that our freedom isn't free. God bless you and God bless the USA!
 |
| Remembering our heroes at the Memorial Day parade in Fairport. |
xoxo
Jenny
PS- In honor of Memorial Day, why not make this fashion statement?
 |
| Made by Survival Straps. Fifty percent of proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project. |
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Lisa's Boutique With Heart
A good friend forwarded me the following email this morning:
I can't believe I didn't know about this boutique. In this crazy world we live in, it is so nice to hear of people like Lisa, who give of their time and their talents so selflessly. I can't wait to check this place out and meet Lisa in person. What a great idea, and what a wonderful person!
Dear Friends:
An amazing local, Lisa Schwingle, opened a store in Schoen Place, Pittsford about a year ago. Lisa's Boutique With Heart sells handmade scarfs, jewelry, paintings and more – all from local vendors. Lisa recently added photos from Sam Maloney, the eleven year old boy from Rochester with autism who gained national attention for his photography. All of the proceeds from Lisa’s store go to local non-profits and from now until the end of June 3rd those proceeds will go to the Jeff Milano-Johnson Memorial Fund. The JMJ Memorial Fund supports scholarships for Rochester city youth, non-profits who support Rochester families, and bereavement advocacy and support services for those who have lost a child. A lacrosse fundraiser is held each year as well - The 2012 tournament is scheduled for June 3rd at Total Sports Experience in Gates.
This is Lisa’s new website with hours and more information and an article in the newspaper about her shop and her. She is an incredible women!
Please go visit her shop over the next two weeks if you can—and forward this post to people who may be interested as well.
THANKS SO MUCH.
Mary Jane
Mary Jane Milano
Founder
Jeff Milano-Johnson Memorial Fund
214 Woodland Rd.
Pittsford, NY 14534
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Back in Black
Hello! Sorry for being MIA. I threw my back out on Thursday and have been hopped up on pain killers and muscle relaxers for the last few days. Since I have impeccable timing (aka the worst luck), my 30th birthday party was Saturday and despite hefty prescription drugs and multiple visits to the chiropractor, I was still in pretty bad shape. I was in [tolerable] pain all night, had trouble getting in and out of the limo, couldn't dance at da club, had to cancel my blow out appointment, and worst of all: could not wear heels, which ruined my outfit!
Here are the shoes I planned on wearing:
 |
| Beverly Feldman Shoes |
Thankfully, I have an amazing group of friends who helped me rally and have a great time despite the crappy circumstances. Two of my besties even flew in from NYC to celebrate! I just wish I could have been more fun [read: drank tequila]. I'm pretty sure everyone had a good time in spite of my crooked back, slow moving gate, and overall lameness.
Here are some pics from the night:
 |
| A bulging disc is no match for a group of stay-at-home moms in a limousine |
 |
| Besties! On our way to Salena's! |
 |
| Jeanne and I have been friends since Kindergarten. I'm pretty sure this is the only time we've been even close to the same height. (I'm in flats, she's in platform wedges) |
And since inquiring minds like to know and this is supposed to be a fashion blog: I'm wearing a BCBG top, vintage necklace, a.n.a. black skinny jeans, Steve Madden shoes, Movado watch, Silpada ring, thrifted earrings, and Jewelry by Lindsay bracelet.
A big thanks to everyone who shared in my special day! I'm so blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life!
Smooches,
Jenny
A big thanks to everyone who shared in my special day! I'm so blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life!
Smooches,
Jenny
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Kelly Kapowski
Just a quick rant today.
I was at the mall last night in search of something to wear for my 30th birthday bash and was in awe of the crappy 90s throwbacks that were filling the racks at every turn. Some 90s trends I'm ok with, like colored skinny jeans (granted the last time I wore them they were Bongo and a size 00 extra long but lets not talk about that ok?) Super. Thanks. And neon is also great (in moderation).
But crop tops? Denim vests? Pallazzo pants? Coolots? Really? How about I froof my bangs a la Kelly Kapowski, spray on alittle CK1, grab my tomagotchi and Ace of Base mix tape and head on over to the Roller Rink for Skate Night!?! Ugh!
The nineties were bad enough the first time. They were like the 80s annoying little brother; trying to be cool, but ending up just a cheap imitation.
What's next? Mood rings? Parachute pants? Pagers? No Fear t-shirts? Snap bracelets? Scrunchies?
I'm starting to regret giving away my Surfstyle windbreaker, my Charlotte Hornets Starter jacket, my Doc Martens, and my entire 5-7-9 wardrobe. If only I kept that necklace with my name (then spelled "Jennie" so I could be cool like Jennie Garth) written on a grain of rice, or my black Jansport with Grateful Dead bear patches, or my purple and teal Umbro shorts.
Sigh. I guess its time to dig out the New Kids on the Block lunchbox, watch some Clarissa Explains It All, and snort a pixi stick, because like it or not the 90s are back. Don't believe me? Pop on over to Eastview and see for yourself.
Enough of my [not so quick after all] rant. How do you feel about the return of 90s fashions? Does it smell like Teen Spirit? Or just plain stink?
I was at the mall last night in search of something to wear for my 30th birthday bash and was in awe of the crappy 90s throwbacks that were filling the racks at every turn. Some 90s trends I'm ok with, like colored skinny jeans (granted the last time I wore them they were Bongo and a size 00 extra long but lets not talk about that ok?) Super. Thanks. And neon is also great (in moderation).
 |
| Like this. Photo |
 |
| Not this. Photo |
 |
| I'm pretty sure she bought this outfit at Forever 21 yesterday... Photo |
What's next? Mood rings? Parachute pants? Pagers? No Fear t-shirts? Snap bracelets? Scrunchies?
 |
| Photo |
 |
| Me circa 1993 Please enjoy the high wasted jeans and scrunchie. |
 |
| Me circa 1996 For your viewing pleasure the only time you will see me in a crop top and cut offs. |
Enough of my [not so quick after all] rant. How do you feel about the return of 90s fashions? Does it smell like Teen Spirit? Or just plain stink?
 |
| Photo |
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
I really love my
BCBG denim jacket. I do. I love it. It has to be close to ten years old and I'm pretty sure I've never washed it. Wow just realized how gross that is. Anywho... I paid $180 for it and I remember my mom telling me that was "a lot of money for a denim jacket. Don't ya think?" I insisted it was worth it and I was right. I mean if I average that $180 over ten years and the number of times I've worn it....well I'm no math whiz but, its a REALLY good deal! I think my love for it has actually grown over time. Here is how I wore it this passed weekend:
1. Friday: My parents were up visiting from NJ = free babysitter = time to run errands. When I say errands I mean all day all over Rochester errands. I went to the DMV, post office, dry cleaners, tailors, applied for a permit for a fence at PCC, got my eyebrows done by Ryan at Brow Diva, got adjusted at the chiropractor, had my rings checked and cleaned at Cornells, filed my DBA at the County Clerks office, and then retraced my steps to every location looking for the antique jade bracelet that I lost (and never found) somewhere along the way. Isn't amazing what you can get accomplished when you don't have your children with you? Here is what I wore:
There you have it. They say "true love never dies" - well, maybe they are on to something. Ten years later Mr. Jacket and I are still going strong.
How about you? Anything hanging in your closet for the last decade that you just can't seem to part with?
1. Friday: My parents were up visiting from NJ = free babysitter = time to run errands. When I say errands I mean all day all over Rochester errands. I went to the DMV, post office, dry cleaners, tailors, applied for a permit for a fence at PCC, got my eyebrows done by Ryan at Brow Diva, got adjusted at the chiropractor, had my rings checked and cleaned at Cornells, filed my DBA at the County Clerks office, and then retraced my steps to every location looking for the antique jade bracelet that I lost (and never found) somewhere along the way. Isn't amazing what you can get accomplished when you don't have your children with you? Here is what I wore:
 |
| BCBG jean jacket, anthropologie top, F21 jeans, Payless wedges, Kate Spade bag, Movado watch, vintage jewelry |
 |
| Gosh I am such a spaz. This is supposed to be my cool fashion blogger pose. Fail! |
 |
| There is the bracelet I lost, vintage ring, and silver chain link bracelet by a girl named Michael - gosh I can't remember he last name (that's about 10 years old too) |
 |
| Antique coin necklace made for my great grandmother from coins my great grandfather brought back from Russia during World War I. Definitely one of my favorite pieces of jewelry. |
2. Saturday: Day Out With Thomas (the train) in Medina. Can you stand how glamorous my life is?! Here is what I wore:
 |
| .The hubs said this was too much boob for Thomas. I disagree. He liked it. |
 |
| Another attempt at posing... |
 |
| BCBG denim jacket (obviously), thrifted earrings, Old Navy maxi dress via Anything Goes, Mossimo for Target sandles, Movado watch |
 |
| Little man crashing my photo shoot in his dino pjs. |
 |
| Me being myself. |
There you have it. They say "true love never dies" - well, maybe they are on to something. Ten years later Mr. Jacket and I are still going strong.
How about you? Anything hanging in your closet for the last decade that you just can't seem to part with?
Monday, May 14, 2012
Pierced
I'm pretty conservative when it comes to body piercing. Sure I wanted an eye brow ring after Elka on The Real World Boston pierced hers back in 1997. Sure I wanted my belly button pierced back when I was dancing thirty hours a week and had rock hard abs and all my friends were piercing theirs. My parents would have killed me if I went through with either. The only "alternative" piercing I ever got was my cartilage on my upper ear and my mom threatened to disown me (note: I was in college at the time!). I let it close up about a year or two later. I can't say I regret not having more holes in my body, but every once and a while I am tempted to do something different.
Right now I'm intrigued by tragus piercings (its that doohicky that sticks out were your ear attaches to your head). I have a few friends who have it done (hear it hurts pretty bad). I love how its just the slightest bit edgy without being obnoxious or circus freaky. Check out these celebs who rock (or have rocked) tragus piercings:
What do you think? Can a mini van-driving mama rock a tragus piercing?
Right now I'm intrigued by tragus piercings (its that doohicky that sticks out were your ear attaches to your head). I have a few friends who have it done (hear it hurts pretty bad). I love how its just the slightest bit edgy without being obnoxious or circus freaky. Check out these celebs who rock (or have rocked) tragus piercings:
 |
| Shannon Elizabeth Photo: listal.com |
 |
| Rihanna Photo: piercing.me |
 |
| Scarlett Johansson Photo: coolspotters.com |
What do you think? Can a mini van-driving mama rock a tragus piercing?
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Mother's Day 2012
Just a quick post today to wish all the mamas out there a happy Mother's Day! I've had a great day so far complete with a new pasta necklace, homemade card, and finger-painted flower pot. I also got a beautiful "Mother's Love" necklace by local jewelry designer Artwark, Pandora charms, a "world's greatest mom" mug, anthropologie gift cards (yes that's plural), and Louis Vuitton ballet flats. I know, I know, I'm a spoiled brat.
Here I am sporting some of my spoils:
Here I am sporting some of my spoils:
 |
| Old Navy top, F21 (pre-pregnancy) jeans :) |
 |
| My "Mother's Love" necklace by Artwark My nest has two eggs in it for my two boys. |
 |
| My new Loius Vuitton ballet flats. A very generous combo Mother's Day/30th Birthday gift from my best friend. |
 |
| Pandora charm bracelet and ring, Tiffany bracelets |
Ok back to spending time with the hubs and kiddos. Hope your Mother's Day has been as wonderful as mine has. To read my homage to my mama click here.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Giveaway Time!
How exciting! My first official giveaway! A definite addition to my blog's baby book. (Don't worry I don't actually have a baby book for my blog that was just a lame joke). I digress. Anywho, on to the good stuff.
Sara from Big City Bags and Jewelry has been gracious enough to donate these lovely bracelets and adorable owl ring for The Flower City Fashionista's first ever giveaway. Drumroll please.
Ooooooh....aaaaaahhhh. Love it right? Did I mention that all of her jewelry is under $20 and all of her bags sell for less than $35!? I'll be hosting an open house June 19th from 5-9pm at my home, so if you're local stop on by to see and shop her entire collection. If you're not local you can still enter the giveaway - I'll ship your prize!
Here is how to enter the drawing:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Can't get enough of Big City Bags and Jewelry? (Me either!) Here is what you can expect to see if you attend my open house or host your own:
Sara from Big City Bags and Jewelry has been gracious enough to donate these lovely bracelets and adorable owl ring for The Flower City Fashionista's first ever giveaway. Drumroll please.
Ooooooh....aaaaaahhhh. Love it right? Did I mention that all of her jewelry is under $20 and all of her bags sell for less than $35!? I'll be hosting an open house June 19th from 5-9pm at my home, so if you're local stop on by to see and shop her entire collection. If you're not local you can still enter the giveaway - I'll ship your prize!
Here is how to enter the drawing:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Can't get enough of Big City Bags and Jewelry? (Me either!) Here is what you can expect to see if you attend my open house or host your own:
Best of Luck! Can't wait to announce the winner!
xoxoxo
Jenny
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
