Monday's Montra

Happy Monday Y'all! 

Hope everyone has a great start to the week!

Yours truly, 

Emily

5 on Friday

Happy Friday friends! Thank goodness Friday is here, the past few weeks have been long and tiring and I am beyond thrilled for a weekend with no plans! I plan on sleeping in, watching more Scandal, doing a bit of cooking, hanging out with friends, cheering on the Pirates, a long overdue Barnes and Noble trip, and lots of relaxing! Hopefully I can cross some things off my Fall bucket list too!

Let's get started with this weeks 5 on Friday

one. 

This past week I had to have a minor procedure done, nothing major and I am feeling fine now but, I was lucky enough to have my sweet grandmother come into town to take care of me. It meant so much to me that she drove all the way to Richmond just to take me to an appointment. Family is so important to me and this past week I truly felt blessed to have such an amazing support system.

two.

Sweater: Forever 21 Scarf: Nordstroms Leggings & Shoes: TJ Maxx

Blouse & Shoes: TJ Maxx Pants: Banana Republic Necklace: Forever 21

This past week I finally broke out some of my old and new items for fall! The mornings were chilly and even the afternoons held a bit of crisp in the air. I have gotten a ton of great pieces from TJ Maxx this season and plan on doing an overhaul in pictures next week!

three.

Quiet mornings when the world is still sleeping and I am left with my coffee, overnight oats, and blogging... perfection. 

four. 

As I type this post, I am currently snuggled in bed, coffee next to me SO thankful to be off today. I worked extra long hours this week so that I could be off today and I can't wait to cross some things off my to do list. I also have no plans for the rest of the weekend and have never been more excited. There's a chance I'll head home for the weekend or maybe head to D.C for the night or maybe even just relax in Richmond all weekend, who knows but having no plans is a beautiful thing!

five. 

This quote is exactly what I needed to see this week.

How are you spending your weekend?

Yours truly, 

Emily

Thoughts for Thursday

Jeez La Weez y'all, this week has been crazy long and I realize it's almost Thursday but I am seriously exhausted.  From studying and long hours last week, taking the GRE last Friday, working the past weekend, having a procedure Monday, and working long hours this week... I'm pooped. Luckily I am off this weekend and looking forward to some serious down time. I may or may not have a few boxes in my room that STILL need to be unpacked. But given that it's thoughts for Thursday, here's a bit of whats been on my mind...

1- I am completely addicted to Scandal. I started watching it this past weekend on Netflix and am already on Season 2! If you haven't checked it out, I highly suggest you do! As if I needed to have more of a girl crush on Kerry Washington. 

2- I have completely fallen off the work out train and desperately need to get back on! Like I mentioned above, the past few weeks have been kicking my butt and I've felt like I've had time to do nothing but work. study, eat, and sleep! I am definitely looking forward to getting back to the gym, motivation help anyone?

3- There is no better feeling in the world then when you take your bra off after work... there I said it. 

4- Enough of this awkward end of summer/fall weather. I am beyond ready to break out the scarves, boots, and jackets! 

5- There are no words for how much I am looking forward to sleeping in on Saturday. I normally try to get to the farmers market around 7:45 to beat the crowds but I have a feeling it will be a different story this weekend. 

6- This article is exactly what I need to read this week. 

What's on your mind this week?

Yours truly, 

Emily 

Fall Bucket List

Being that I have been talking about Fall since the beginning of August... it shouldn't be hard to guess that it is by far my favorite season. Sweaters, boots, pumpkin everything, the changing leaves, football- I mean honestly what's not to love. In honor of my favorite season, I thought it would be fun to put together a Fall Bucket List. None of the activities below are too outlandish or extreme so I am confident I will be able to knock them out with no problem. Let's take a look what's on the agenda for fall...

One.

Make pumpkin muffins 

Two. 

Go apple picking

Three. 

Decorate pumpkins

Four. 

Decorate the new apartment for Fall

Five.

Go to the State fair

 

Six.

Make a new soup

Seven.

Host a Halloween housewarming party 

Eight.

Have a scary movie night with the roommates

Nine.

Make chili 

Ten.

Go to NYC

What's on your fall bucket list?

Yours truly, 

Emily

Necessary For Fall- An Easy Apple Pie

What says fall more then a homemade apple pie?... ok maybe pumpkin pie but still, everyone needs an easy go to recipe for apple pie!

I didn't follow a set recipe but took a look a few and came up with this...

Ingredients:
5-6 apples (I used a mixture of Granny Smith and Pink Ladies
Sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Flour
Butter
Pie Crust ( feel free to judge but I used pre-made crust)

1. Peel and slice apples.
2. Spread one half of pie crust in pie pan and form to dish.
3. Pour half of apples in dish and sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. ( I'm terrible at measurements so I just gave a good dash of each)
4. Add rest of apples and add more cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and a tad of flour.
5. Top with crumbled butter
6. Cover with pie crust and use fork to pinch edges together.
7. Using a knife, cut small venting slits in the top layer of pie crust.
Bake at 350 for an hour and enjoy!

Happy Baking friends!

Yours truly,
Emily

Recap- Relaxing Weekend

Monday Monday Monday... here we meet again. This past weekend I actually worked both Saturday and Sunday but totally did not mind and was glad to have a little down time. Saturday when I got off work, I headed to Trader Joes to pick up a few items for this upcoming week. Once I got home, I got to work on making a yummy dinner, an apple pie, and scones! 

A few weeks ago I picked up this scone mix at Trader Joes and was so happy with the way they turned out! All you have to do is add water, scoop them on a pan and bake for 12-15 minutes. The mix is enough for about 12 scones, perfect to grab and go for an easy week day breakfast!

Being that I knew I was going to be relaxing at home on Saturday night, I wanted to make a yummy comforting dish, especially with the rainy weather. I found this recipe on pinterest and decided to go with it...

Spaghetti Squash Gratin. 

Y'all this recipe absolutely did not disappoint and I am already looking forward to when I make it again. I also took a chance and rather then baking the squash in oven like I normally would, I decided to microwave it! It still turned out just as great and definitely saved lots of time! All you need to do is slice the ends, cut in half, and place halves in a baking dish with about an inch of water- microwave for about 8-12 minutes. 

And if you think I stopped my cooking escapade there... think again. This girl was on a roll and I ended up making this beauty...

I am not much of a baker but I can honestly say this was hands down the best thing I have ever made- look for the recipe this week!

Obviously I chose to enjoy my slice while watching football, windows open listening to the rain, and with a glass of red

Sunday I was back at work but ended the day by grabbing drinks and dinner for a friend's birthday, clearly it was necessary to end the weekend with a little sangria

Today my grandmother is coming in town because I am have a small procedure. Nothing major but still stressful none the less, fingers crossed everything goes well!

How did you spend your weekend?

5 on Friday.. a bit late

Hey Y'all sorry for the delay in my Friday post! For some reason my blogger would not upload anything yesterday! 

This week felt like it flew by but also dragged on during some days. Monday I am almost positive I was on day 2 of being hungover, Tuesday I left work early to babysit then headed back to work and stayed until 9, Wednesday I let my kiddos talk me into movie night and ended up working a 12 hour shift, and Thursday was about a 9 hour day. Most importantly of this week, I took the GRE on Friday! It was a long miserable 4 hours but I am glad it's over and done with and no longer looming over my head. I also got to end my week and celebrate being done with the GRE by heading to my favorite spot, Pearl, for happy hour! Friday night was an early night in bed after having such a long week but exactly what I needed. I wish I could say I have exciting plans for the rest of the weekend but I will be working both Saturday and Sunday and honestly looking forward to a little down time this weekend while I am not at work. Enough with all that though, lets get looking at a few goodies from this week!

(a day late)

One. 

This week in Richmond, we had a few chilly mornings which obviously called for leggings, flats, tunic, and of course a PSL

Two.

Although this week and next week are kinda busy and filled with uneventful not fun things, I have a few things planned over the next few months that I am counting down for! A weekend bachelorette at the beach, 2 trips to Charlottesville, a few Pirate games, and a possible trip to NYC... I am one happy lucky girl!

Three.

Is there honestly anything better then a successful Friday afternoon trip to Tj Maxx... I think not. I scored all of these goodies yesterday and could not be more excited for them. I also hid a few things to go back next week and get... there's only so much a girl's bank account can take. Here are a few of the other looks I was loving... (pardon the mirror shots!)

I did get this shirt and can't wait to wear it! I loved it paired with the leggings and booties but unfortunately the booties did not make it home with me. If they are still there come next week... they are all mine. 

I also loved this oversized tan sweater! It also did not make it home with me but was super comfy and soft and I am kicking myself for not getting it. 

Four.

Being that I don't have many plans for the weekend and am looking forward to some down time.. I decide I would spend my Saturday afternoon and night doing some baking and cooking for this upcoming week! First on the list to make- homemade apple pie!

Five.

This is the book I used to study for the GRE and I am so happy I will be returning it to the library! It feels amazing to be done and I am looking forward to moving on with my grad school process! Fingers crossed everything goes well!

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

Wishlist Wednesday

Alright y'all, thank goodness it is Wednesday! This week has been kicking my behind. Monday was day 2 of being hungover... proof that I am too old for shots until last call and Tuesday consisted of work, babysitting, and then back to work for a meeting until 9. I am one tired girl and wish I could say I'm looking forward to Friday and being off but unfortunately I will be taking the dreaded GRE... womp womp womp. You can bet that I will be making a bee line for the closest place serving wine near the testing center, early happy hour anyone?  On a happier note, in the next few weeks I will be making a few additions to my wardrobe for the cooler months approaching. Here are a few things I have had my eye on...

one.

I am loving this sweater from Zara. Perfect for throwing on with leggings and boots for running errands. 

two. 

Another great piece from Zara and seriously a steal for under $50!

three. 

I am not a huge Ann Taylor shopper but when I saw these I instantly wanted them. I am obsessed with the leather side detail and love that you can pair a skinny belt with them.

four. 

After I saw Megan post about these booties, they immediately went into my shopping cart. They are too cute and I am loving the Target price!

five. 

BB Dakota is on it this season for sweaters and I am loving the tweed look of this one. Perfect to wrap up with on a chilly night!

six. 

You can honestly never have too many chambray shirts, especially when their from Forever 21 and are a bargain!

seven. 

In the name of all things holy... I am dying over this watch! I am a sucker for anything tortoise shell and this watch is beyond stunning. Early Christmas present maybe?

What's on your wishlist for fall?

Yours truly, 

Emily

New Fall Beauty

Since I have been away, I have tried a few new beauty products that I wanted to be sure to share. Now that the weather is getting a bit chillier, I am trying to transition my makeup and skin routine for the upcoming temperature changes. This normally means switching to a heavier lotion, switching out BB cream for an actual foundation, and giving my locks a little bit extra TLC. Here are a few new things I have picked up...

Fall Beauty Products by ead0724 featuring a shimmer blush

First Aid Beauty face moisturizer / Bumble and Bumble beauty product / Beauty product / Laura Mercier foundation, $53 / Benefit face makeup / NARS Cosmetics shimmer blush

1. Aussie 3 Minute Miracle

Since decided to have my hair highlighted a few months ago, my hair has been in need of serious moisture. I remember Ashley mentioning this product and how much she loved it so I thought I would give it a try and boy did it not disappoint. My hair feels instantly smoother and healthier after using this and it smells great!

2. Nars Blush/ Bronzer Duo

I have been eyeing this for a long time and finally decided to bit the bullet and buy it. It comes with Orgasm, a blush I have used before and LOVED. The bronzer is also great and not super dark or have a ton of shimmer in it. 

3. Aquaphor Intense Lip Repair

This is my go to for when my lips start becoming chapped. I have gone through countless numbers of these little tubes and will always love how it keeps my lips smooth and soft throughout the colder months. 

4. Benefit Watt's Up

I originally received this as a sample but quickly fell in love. I have been using it with my Blush/Bronzer for a bit of contouring and am loving it. It's also great to add a hint just below your brow bone for an added highlighting. 

5. Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Finish

If you don't have this product... run to go get it. It has officially become my favorite for adding lift and volume while also keeping fly aways in place. A little bit goes a long way and it's not exactly cheap either so use sparingly!

6. Laura Mercier Silk Foundation

While perusing at Sephora last week I mentioned to the sales girl that I was thinking about picking up a new foundation. I told her I wanted something that wasn't too heavy but would provide me with good coverage and keep my skin moisturized. After trying a few different brands, we tried this and both agreed it looked the best! It goes on super smooth and feels amazing and even lasts all day while I'm at work!

7. First Aid Beauty Daily Face Cream

I also tried this product out while I was at Sephora and instantly fell in love. It's super light weight but immediately makes your skin feel quenched. Also a steal for just $20!

How do you transition your makeup and skin care?

Yours truly, 

Emily

Back to Blogging + A few updates!

Happy Monday y'all! I am so happy to finally have internet at the new apartment and could not wait to begin posting again! The past few weeks have been absolutely crazy but here is what I have been up to...

I have officially moved into my new apartment and am living with 2 other girls. This is Katie and I before heading out our first night moved in!

My sweet little came up to visit over Labor Day weekend! It was so much fun to see her and catch up and I am already planning my trip to D.C to see her in a few weeks!

Lots of studying for the GRE... boring

I hosted my first Stella & Dot trunk show! Obviously a trip to Traders was necessary to stock up on lots of wine and yummy snacks.

So many beautiful pieces from the new fall line!

Snuck away for a few nights at home and went to a Kieth Urban concert in the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, it was definitely one of the coolest concerts I've ever seen!

Finally had a Saturday off and was able to make it to the Farmer's Market where I snagged this beautiful bouquet of flowers.

My lovely friend Lauren at her Bridal shower- less then 50 days to go!

Fitting in a little "me" time at Barnes and Noble 

Taking a mental health day from work and heading up to Charlottesville to take in the views... and of course hit up a few wineries!

A Friday afternoon spent getting my hair done, reading magazines, all with a PSL... perfect. 

This past weekend I made it down to Greenville to cheer on the Pirates! Unfortunately we did not win but it was so fun to catch up with everyone!

Hanging at the niner with the best group of girls. 

Like I said... its been a crazy few weeks but I am so happy to be back in the blogging world! Stay tuned for more updates throughout the week! 

Hope everyone has a wonderful Monday

Yours truly, 

Emily

Happy Weekend!

Hello loves! I promise I have not forgotten about the blog world but unfortunately I am STILL without internet at the new apartment! We should be finally getting it today, fingers crossed! I am looking forward to getting back to regular posts and have lots of updates!

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily

Stella and Dot!

Happy Wednesday Y'all! 

Sorry to be m.i.a the past few days but after moving and working and not having internet yet... it's been a little hectic. 

I did want to make sure I posted today to let you all know that I hosted a Stella and Dot trunk show last night and I am in LOVE with the new fall line! There are so many new amazing pieces that can be worn throughout all seasons, please please check it out! 

Here is the link to shop through my trunk show:

Emily's Stella and Dot Trunk Show

Here are a few of my favorite Stella and Dot pieces!

The Nancy Stud

I am beyond in love with these sweet studs. I wear studs almost 90% of the time and love that these can be worn when running errands to dress up jeans and a top or even for a night out on the town. 

Frida Scarf

Please tell me you just as obsessed with this scarf as me! I am loving all the colors and think it would be so good with a black dress and boots for fall or white jeans in the summer!

The Sutton Necklace

This necklace is definitely a winner- it can be worn 5 different ways and has all the different metals, great for mix and matching! I love the versatility of the necklace and it has definitely been added to my wishlist!

Stackable Band Rings

I love simple pieces of jewelry and am loving these rings. I would probably only wear 3 at time but love the dainty chic look of these!

So there you have it, a few of my favorite Stella and Dot pieces!

If you do wish to place an order, please do so through the above link provided! 

Happy Shopping!

Yours truly, 

Emily