Passione Per Vita

Passion...a very strong feeling about a person or thing. Wikipedia


The emotion that brings color and meaning to our lives. Without it we would go through our lives in shades of grey; drones going through the motions. With it we experience joy and yes, sometimes pain. Each day my family and friends leave bits of themselves with me rounding out my existence. I get those fabulous group text messages from my husband and kids. We are scattered across this great land of ours and those little "dings" on my phone bring me parts of them. I go to work and always look forward to my friends with our banter, hugs, tears and always laughter. Evenings and days off are for the love of my life, Gary. My best friend. As we look forward to our next adventure, Alaska, we pack, unpack, and repack. Actually that's just me, the fashionista extrodinaire. I must have just the right scarf for those jeans! As if anyone cares.

This entry is "Gina's Picks". The little things that bring color to my existence.


1. Top pick Norman Loves Pecan & Chocolate Caramel Turtles

The best hands down, without comparison, forgettaboutit Really, BEST piece of orgasmic good chocolate on the planet. I actually "budget" this confection into my diet (thanks My Fitness Pal)

Here's a link Norman Loves online


2. Favorite author (right now) ok, so ... I'm a bit embarrassed. I've been known to read a wide variety of literature. Seldom do I read anything as worthwhile as history or as important as self improvement. I mean really, is there much room for improvement? My dear husband swears I'm perfect, or did I catch a note of sarcasm in that manly, radio-talk-show-host-worthy voice of his? Anyway, I confess I've been reading romance novels. There I said it. Robyn Carr has written 20 books known as The Virgin River Series. They take place in the mountainous northern lands of California. She has brought to life a host of characters, introducing a couple with each book.  She has done such a good job of it I just want to sell my home and move to this small community, if it wasn't fictional. Damn.

Start with book one "Virgin River" and work your way through chronologically. I am currently on book 17, yes that's right 17 since February (plus I fit in a couple of Alaska set mysteries and of course Dan Brown's "Inferno").

3. Favorite online clothing stores ... I have two

www.purplepoppy.com check out the XCVI Double Rouched Skirt (Trace Skirt) I got the mini but I am only 5'1". Love this skirt. It runs a bit generous so take that into account. Here's the link

I got the grey. I also love the Lisette Leopard Pant. They advise going down a size for a good fit and they are absolutely right on with that. Lisette Pants. They are so good looking and very comfy (and in my suitcase).

My other fav is www.getdressed2.com

I am obsessed with the Deca Paris tunic (on me a dress) called Smadar I like this piece so much I got one in black and grey. Smadar tunic

4. Finally....my favorite lip stain is Chanel Rouge Double Intensite Ultra Wear Lipcolor
You can find it here online

I do have a runner up favorite lip treat,  YSL Available at Sephora online


Go forth! Have fun. Make sure there is color in your life. Passione per vita, have a passion for life! Ciao baby!