On Being Spoiled...

Remember the friend who bought me these boots?  

And these shoes?

And this coat?

And this bag?

And who took me on this vacation for free?

Well, she outdid herself yet again.

Today, I bring you my Christmas present, from my dear friend Jeree:

Louis Vuitton Eva Clutch in Damier Ebone

Here is how I styled it on its maiden voyage:

Riding boots for day:

Booties for night:

Which do you like better?  Boots?  Or booties?

And how much do you love that Jeree and I have matching hair cuts now?

I bet tons...

Love you almost as much as I love Jeree

xoxo

Jenny

PS - What's the best gift you've ever received?

Some of My Best Work

If you know me, you know that I love a good deal.  I shop sales.  I use coupons.  I double those coupons.  I stack coupons on top of sales on top of rewards points.  Now, you won't see me on Extreme Couponing anytime soon with a shopping cart full of hot sauce (who wants 60 bottles of hot sauce anyway?) but you will see me scouring clearance bins, deal websites, and sale racks with the best of them.

For your viewing pleasure, my latest shopping victory:

That's right kids, six pairs of earrings for one dollar.  That has to be some kind of record...

Not only were they cheap, but they are pretty freaking fantastic, if I do say so myself.  I've been wearing them all the time!  The geometric designs are so on-trend and the variety of silver, yellow gold, and rose gold, means they go with EVERYTHING I own.  I'm obsessed.

Jealous? 

I've got good news and bad news.  

Bad news:  if you live in Rochester, I'm pretty sure both H&M locations have already closed.  Bummer.  

Good news: if you don't live in Rochester, you can get your cute little tushy over to your closest H&M and grab them before they sell out.  Now, you may not be able to score them for a dollar (pretty sure that was part of a going out of business sale) but even at full price (a whopping $5.95) these babies are a steal and something you will wear over and over again.

I'm wearing mine right now...

What about you?  Get any good deals lately?  Please share!

Love you like I love dollar earrings, 

xoxo

Jenny

Made in America Monday ~ Etsy Top 5

This Monday, I've decided to share my five favorite etsy shops (of the moment) with you.

Etsy is a great place to shop American-made and support small businesses - two things I really make an effort to do.

Here are my current favs:  (in no particular order)

1.  Brookish - Jane Austen inspired merch - need I say more?  I have Mr. Darcy's Proposal Scoop Neck Tee - it's one of my favorite layering pieces.

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2.  Artwark - Rochester NY jewelry designer, with really fun, affordable pieces.  I have tons of her stuff!  Love!  Best known for her "Mother's Love" necklace pictured below.  I get compliments on mine constantly! Great gift idea!

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3.  Storiarts - these infinity book scarves are fantastic.  I have Jane Eyre and wear it all the time!

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4. Truche - Made to order jewelry.  My favorite are her United States of Love - State Necklaces - such a cute way to show pride for your home state.  The New Jersey one has been on my wish list for ages... I need to just break down and buy it for myself one of these days...

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5.  House Hold Words  - removable vinyl wall decals for your home.  I have "Masterpieces" up in our playroom over Colten's art wall display.  So cute!  Thinking about where I have room for another one...

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What's your favorite American-made etsy shop?  Please share links below!

xoxo

Jenny

If I Was a Boy...

Well,  I'd probably look like this:

I can't believe that after being tucked away for thirteen years, I am posting these pictures for the second time this month.  You can all thank Erin over at Living in Yellow for the double dose of me with sideburns - I'm linking up with her today.

• If I was a boy, I would thank God every day that I don't have to shave my legs, my pits, or my nether regions.
• I'd take a shower, towel off, get dressed and walk out the door.  Getting ready would take zero effort.
• I would never say "bikini line," "does this make my butt look big," or "bad hair day" EVER.
• My idea of dieting would be cutting out soda.  I'd drop ten pounds instantly.
• I'd dress like a total prep.  We're talking Polo meets Abercrombie meets these guys:

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• And most importantly:  I'd be gay so I can date Matt Bomer.

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The end.

What would you do?  Link up with Erin and Gay and join the fun!

xoxo

Jenny

Happy Birthday Coopy!

Well it's official:  Coopy Scoopy is one!  Most mother's get all sentimental and say things like "it goes by too fast" and "why can't they be babies forever?"  Want to know what I have to say?  "Thank God this kid is one!"  My adorable little friend was NOT an easy baby by any stretch of the imagination so I am happy to say au revoire to the infant phase and hello to toddlerhood.  Bring.  It.  On.

Last week we set off to NJ (in our new big boy car seat).  Yes, I know the new recommendation is that they stay rear facing until two.  I also know how distracting it is to drive with a baby screaming for 5 hours because he is sick at staring at the back of a seat.  So, think what you will - but that boy is facing forward.

The Scoops - blurry feet and all.

My new view of the back seat.

I had a few errands to run before Cooper's party on Saturday.  Balloons needed to be ordered, candy had to be purchased for the pinata that I forgot to actually use, and I was in desperate need of a haircut. I've lived in Rochester for five years and I still get my haircut in NJ.  Don't judge.

Here's the new 'do:

The bangs are back in town, much to the chagrin of my husband.
He likes to "see my face."
I like to hide my forehead lines.
My hair.
I win.

Cooper's party was a hippo theme:  hippo invites, favors, hats - you get the drift.  I had an adorable hippo shirt made for him by Designs by Too Too Cute Tutus.  It came out so cute!

And I couldn't believe that he actually wore his "fun to be one" hat.  How awesome is this kid?

Here's a peak at the decor:

Hippos, hippos, everywhere

One of the great things about going home is being able to visit with my family and friends:

When I'm back in Jerz, it feels like I never left.  We had a great time celebrating with all the people we love.  I think a good time was had by all!

Happy Birthday Cooper!  Mommy loves you!

xoxo

Jenny

Made in America Monday - ME!

You know who was made in America?  Me

I realize this is a stretch, but just roll with it.  Okay?  Great!

After a busy weekend traveling to NJ for this little guy's first birthday:


I don't have a post prepared.

I know, I know.  Bad blogger.

I'll have a great American-made product line to introduce you to next week though.  Scouts honor.  Tomorrow, we've got a hippo birthday recap on the agenda and this morning I just have some news about me.  You can hardly contain your excitement, can you?

Just a few quick things to share:

1.  I'm now a personal shopper for Sears, Kmart, and Lands End.  The service is 100% free for you.  Sears pays me.  And you can win a $25 gift card for signing up to be my client here.  Enter the giveaway here.  

2.  I'm nominated for Circle of Moms Top 25 Fashion and Beauty Moms for 2013!  Right now I'm ranked 84 - there are three days left to vote and I would really appreciate it if you took the time to vote for me!  Click the button below or on my sidebar to vote.

3.  It's Martin Luther King Day - let's keep dreaming his big dreams:

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."  Martin Luther King Jr., I Have a Dream, 1963.

And remember that "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." — Martin Luther King

xoxo

Jenny

PS- Thought I'd kick a little knowledge your way:

Want Me to Be Your Personal Shopper?

Ever wish I could be your personal shopper?

Well, you’re in luck.

I’m now a Personal Shopper for Sears, Kmart, and Lands End.

I would love for you to be my client!

How it works is simple: once you sign up as my client,  every time you use your Shop Your Way Rewards Card I make commission and you earn valuable points.  I’ve literally gotten hundreds of dollars in free stuff from this program. (You can read about my love for Shop Your Way here. Note: this was written BEFORE I was even a personal shopper).   So you run into Kmart for diapers? Cha-ching. Get a washing machine at Sears? Making bank. Cute sweater from Lands End? Rolling. In. The. Dough.

Here’s the best part though (other than making me millions and you getting free stuff)... As your personal shopper you can contact me to help you with any shopping or home/auto services under the SHC umbrella. Need shoes to wear to your sisters wedding? Done! Price compare flat screen tvs? I’m on it. New vacuum? In the bag. Want to throw out everything in your closet? Let’s go shopping! I’ll tell if you those pants make your butt look big...I promise!  The list is virtually endless - and you get these services for FREE. I help you shop and Sears pays me. I’m thinking this is a win - win how about you?

Signing up is easy but I have noticed one glitch in the process. After step two, the button you click says “I’m done” when there is still one more step left. Oops!  You still need to click the top box on the next screen to accept the personal shopping terms and conditions.

So let’s so this, shall we?

Go to: http://ps.shopyourway.com/personal-shoppers/jennifersanzo.invitation

Here is the 3 step sign up process in explicit detail:

1. Click link above

2. Click [start here] button

3. Sign up as a shop your way member

4. Sign up as a shop your way REWARDS member so you can earn points. If you already have a Rewards account, you can provide your membership info by clicking the checkbox at the top of the form.

5. Click [I’m Done] NOTE: You are NOT DONE WITH THE PERSONAL SHOPPER MEMBERSHIP SIGN IN PROCESS

6. To become a client of mine, accept the terms and conditions by clicking first box, leave second box blank

7. Click [FINISH]

8. You will get a confirmation email and so will I.

Need a little nudge?

How does a $25 gift card sound?  Good?  Great!  Because I'm giving one away.

Note:  You must sign up for my personal shopping program to participate in the giveaway!

Enter here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

xoxo

Jenny http://ps.shopyourway.com/personal-shoppers/jennifersanzo.invitation

Two for Tuesday: Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

1.  If your name is Natalie V, you just won a pair of Acoustic Denim jeans!  Wooo hooo! 

2.  If you live in the Rochester, NY area you have to read about my exploits as the Fashion and Beauty Blogger for Rochester A-List.  I'm going to be spa hopping for the next few months... I know, I know... Rough.  Life.

Love ya like I love free spa days,

xoxo

Jenny

Made in America Monday - Acoustic Denim Part 2

Just in case you missed last week's post, you can read all about the fabulous American-made brand Acoustic Denim here.  Today is also the last day to enter my giveaway for a free pair of Acoustic Denim jeans.  Yes, free jeans.  In your size.  What the heck are you waiting for?  You can enter now.  I'll wait right here until you come back...

.....

Back?  Super.

I'm in love my Acoustic Denim.  I've been wearing on and off all week, so I decided to show you another way to style a high waisted skinny jean.  Until I got this pair from Acoustic, I don't think I had worn a pair of pants on my waist since elementary school.  Well, except for that time senior year of high school that I had to dress up like a sailor for Oliver!  (But I also wore painted-on sideburns, so I don't think you can count that as a fashion statement).  Definitely not one of my brightest moments...

What a bunch of whackos!  It's a wonder we all turned out alright... I actually can't believe I just shared these photos.  How about we never talk about this again?  Ok?  Great!

That being said, you can pull off a high waisted jean without a.  looking like a man or b.  getting that lovely mom jean effect.

Here is how I wore mine:  (I even managed to tie in a nautical theme without actually dressing like a sailor...bonus!)

Acoustic Denim jeans, Target blouse and pumps,  Anthropologie belt,
Louis Vuitton bag, Forever 21 earrings, Balla Bling bracelet,
Michael Kors watch, Jewelry by Lindsay bracelet, JCREW bracelet,
Thrifted bracelet, Flea Market Girl necklace via Shop Peppermint,
Hair styled by Allora Salon and Spa - Victor NY

Bernado Faux Leather Jacket
It was 60 degrees in Rochester in January.
Woot.  Woot.

Have I finally convinced you holdouts to enter my giveaway?  Great.  Enter here.  

These puppies could be yours:

How will you wear yours?

xoxo

Jenny

Catching Up

Hey Kids!

I'm back from a whirlwind week in Michigan.  (Sorry for the only posting once this week, but it was all my schedule would allow).

Last Sunday, my mom and I loaded the boys in the van and headed out on an eight hour drive to Detroit.  It has been six months since our last visit to Michigan for Nancy Kaufman's Summer SPEAK and we decided it was time to head back so that Colten could be reassessed and receive some additional therapy at Kaufman Children's Center.  We also needed to have Cooper evaluated.  Oh, how I wish I could either a.  Move to Michigan  b.  Pick up the KCC and drop it in Rochester, NY.  It is so nice to get answers when uncertainty seems to loom around every corner.  It is so nice to know your child is getting EXACTLY the right treatment at the right time.  It's amazing to see how much progress he can make after only a four day intensive program there.  Ah-mazing.

I'll be posting about our trip in full detail later.  I'll give you all an update on Colten's new speech and occupational therapy goals and explain the issues that are beginning to emerge with Cooper.  Right now I'm still processing all of the information.  It is A LOT to digest.  All I have to say is God only knows we would be without Nancy Kaufman and the KCC.  I am so thankful that she came into our lives and that we have the means to make sure our child(ren) get the best care possible.

She gave me answers and hope when I had neither.  She helped me son find his voice.  She is a rockstar in my book.

It looks like we'll be making this trip every 6 months.  It seemed like the perfect amount of time to revamp Colt's program.  And as overwhelming as it is to think of being the mother of two special needs children, it's comforting to know that Cooper will be getting intervention as early as possible and that this time we will have a plan.  We can skip the months/years of uncertainty and move right to action.

All around, I think we are in a good place.  And I wouldn't trade these little beasties for the world:

We were eating pasta - maybe next time I should wipe my kid's face before I take his picture...

Back to regular programming on Monday!

Have a great weekend!

xoxo

Jenny

Made in America Mondays ~ Acoustic Denim Giveaway

Let's talk denim today shall we?  I just found out about this fabulous new made in the USA brand called Acoustic Denim.  

Here's a little bit about the company:

Acoustic Denim is all about American made denim. In fact, all of our products are made right in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Our vision is to produce American products that highlight the most current trends in fashion. The company leaders are veterans with 30 years of experience, and we believe in a hands on approach to quality control.

The name Acoustic was chosen, because it reflects the company’s ideals. Acoustic is raw, original, without influence, and more importantly, it’s about natural outcome from hard work. The mission at Acoustic is just that, to bring in all abilities in order to achieve a beautiful outcome in the products. Acoustic Denim’s emphasis is in the originality of American made denim for customers who appreciate American fashion.

I typically have a hard time finding jeans.  I'm 5'9 (long legs) and curvy (junk in the trunk).  Usually if I can get pants to fit my butt/thighs they are swimming around my waist.  And if I do find a pair to fit my mid section they tend to be too short.  Ah, the old waiting-for-the-flood effect.  Not.  Cute.  Thank God riding boots are in - I can tuck my too short jeans into them and no one has to know a thing!  ;)

However, my two fabulous pairs of Acoustic denim fit like a glove without a visit to the tailor.  Hallelujah!  They are even long enough to wear with heels.  Shut.  Up.  These jeans fit great, are high quality, and made in the USA.  What's not to love?

Oh, almost forgot to tell you the best part!  This brand is only available at few select boutiques right  now, but Acoustic Denim is giving a pair away to one lucky Flower City Fashionista reader!  You can be one of the first of your friends to own what is sure to be one of the most popular brands of denim in the USA.  If you win, you will have your choice of the two styles that I am modeling below.  (Let's keep in mind that I use the term "modeling" loosely.  I have about three poses and my husband takes pictures of me in our living room with my i-phone...)

Pair # 1 High-Waisted Dark Wash (Size 31):

Pair #2 Raspberry Railroad Stripe (Size 30)

And now for the giveaway!  You will win your choice of either the raspberry railroad stripe or the high-waisted dark wash.  Sorry, but US residents only.  Available in sizes 25-31.

Best of luck lovelies!

Enter here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

xoxo

Jenny