Happy Halloween!

Hope everyone has a wonderful day! Mine will be spent with my patients making the day as special as possible for those cuties while they are getting better!

Yours truly, 

Emily

Topics for Wednesday

Happy Wednesday friends! This week has been absolutely crazy so far with Halloween coming up and getting all the patients set up with various activities! To be honest, I was going to skip out on posting today until I received a sweet email from Melissa over at Simply Sweet Melissa who nominated me for a Liebster Award! Melissa is relatively new to the blogging world but boy does it not feel like, her blog has quickly become one of my daily reads! The saddest part about getting hooked on Melissa's blog is that she lives in Charlotte, NC... the city I used to live in and miss SO much everyday! Hopefully we will get to meet one day but for now here are the questions she posed...

1. What is your favorite childhood book?

When I was growing up I was crazy about reading, I constantly begged my parents to take me to the library or the book store and couldn't wait to find what book I would read next. I can't remember a favorite but a few of my favorite children's books that I enjoy reading to my patients are The Kissing Hand, Blueberries For Sale, and The Giving Tree. 

2. How would you describe your style?

I would describe my style as classic and relaxed with a touch of trendiness. For work I normally stick to a dress with flats/boots or slim cropped pants and a blouse. Weekend and nights out normally consist of leggings, booties, long tunics... anything comfy but stylish and polished. 

3. What is your favorite season (Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall)?

Hands down fall. 

4. What is the one piece of jewelry you cannot live without?

My favorite piece of jewelry is my initial E necklace from South Moon Under. I wear it almost all the time and can't imagine what I would do without it, its small and dainty but perfect for every day. 

5. What is your favorite color?

This is a serious toss up between navy blue or purple. 

6. What is something you have never done but want to do?

Unfortunately I have never traveled to the West Coast and it is something I have been wanting to do for some time. If it were up to me, my next vacation would include a week long wine tour all throughout the northern part of California and obviously include my closest girlfriends. 

7. What is something that people misinterpret about you?  

I am an only child and I think a lot of people get the wrong impression when they hear me say I don't have siblings. Only children have the reputation of being selfish, one sided, and greedy but I can honestly say I am none of those things. My parents worked extremely hard to raise me and put me through private school all the way until college and I am beyond grateful for the childhood I was able to have. 

8. What kind of blogs do you enjoy reading?

I love reading all kinds of different blogs, but mostly stick to the lifestyle ones that cover style, home diy's, recipes, and various life advice/observations. 

9. Do you have any favorite hair or makeup products?

One of my all time favorite hair products that I have blogged about before is the Bb Thickening Dryspun Finishing Spray. I normally add just a touch to the roots once I've finished curling or straightening my hair and it gives the best volume. 

10. What is your workout routine (if you have one)?

My workout routine varies but a few of my favorite things to do are spinning, hot yoga, and barre. I love mixing things up and challenging myself at new classes, but do appreciate a good 'ol gym workout every now and then. 

11. Do you have any blogging advice for those who are having a hard time getting started?

Eloquently Emily is something I started over a year ago and honestly did not see it becoming what it is today. I have less then 200 followers so its no secret that I am not a die hard blogger. However my blog has become something that is solely mine, something I control and get to make every decision about. There are weeks where I can post every day and there are others where I only get to post twice but that's OK because it's my blog and reflects my life. If you are thinking about starting a blog or have one now and wanting to put more into it just make sure you don't take the fun and enjoyment out of it. Find new blogs, leave comments, send emails, have a giveaway, but always be sure to come back to the original reason you started the blog, whatever it may be!

Yours truly, 

Emily

Weekend Recap

This past weekend was one of the first in a long time that I have been both off work and in Richmond with no plans. I can't tell you how excited I was to sleep in, relax, and spend time with friends. Friday I was off work by 5 and headed out to treat myself to something new and just so happened to come home with 2 new beauty products...

Finally gave in and decided on a facial oil- Josie Maran Argan Oil "Light"

I have only used this twice but so far I am loving it! It definitely hasn't left my skin oily or greasy looking like I thought it would.  I also picked up a new fragrance that I am obsessed with-

Since the start of fall I have been looking for new fall/winter fragrance and could not be more satisfied with my pick. It has light hints of floral, amber, and a little musk and while these things are not my normal go to scents... I am loving it! 

After treating myself I headed out with some friends and ended up at one of my favorite restaurants in Richmond- Pearl Oyster and Raw Bar. 

It has the perfect atmosphere to grab dinner and drinks with friends and the food is amazing. 

Saturday was pretty lazy and included my laying around watching lots of trashy T.V but this girl was not complaining. It was so nice to sleep in and have absolutely nothing to do. I did venture out in the afternoon to attend Richmond's first Boulevard Pumpkin Festival!

Lucky for me, Boulevard is just a few blocks from my apartment and I was able to walk over with friends. The festival itself was great and I am kicking myself for not taking more pictures. The day included live music, beer and wine trucks, lots of food vendors, and various activities. Saturday night was pretty low key and included another dinner at one of my favorite spots- Toast and bed early.

Sunday morning I was up early and whipped up a yummy breakfast for my roommate and I

French toast and coffee make for the best mornings. 

The rest of the day was spent grocery shopping and my weekly Sunday tradition trip to Barnes & Noble. 

All in all a great relaxing weekend.

How did you spend your weekend?

Yours truly, 

Emily

Monday's Mantra

Here's to starting off the week on a positive note!

Yours truly, 

Emily

5 on Friday

Happy Friday friends! Back at it this week for another round of 5 on Friday...

{one}

This week I received my first Relay Foods pickup! Relay foods is an online grocery store that offers fresh, local, and organic products to people in Richmond and greater surrounding areas. For the past few weeks they have been advertising one of their starter boxes for only $1 and this girl could not resist. This past Monday I picked up my yummy box full of fresh and local produce and could not have been more excited!

{two}

This past week I also attended my fist Boho Spinning Stuido class! If you've been a follower of Eloquently Emily for some time now, you know that I am a fan of spinning and make it to spin 2-3 a week at my gym. I was super excited to hear about a spinning studio opening up, especially one located just blocks from my house! Pictured above is AnnMarie and Shannon, the owners and starters of Boho Cycle Studio. Shannon also has a blog that I have followed for some time now and I couldn't be more excited for her and her partner in their new business. The class I attended was an early riser class at 6 A.M taught by Shannon, and honestly despite the frigid cold weather and early alarm clock... I loved it! The music was amazing and Shannon had an incredible amount of passion for spin and spreading its benefit to others. If you are in the Richmond area I highly suggest you check this place out, I am already looking forward to my next class!

{three}

 For one day this week I headed out of Richmond back up the mountains of Charlottesville to hit a few wineries with the most amazing group of ladies anyone could ask for. It was a wonderful day and I am truly blessed to have such amazing friends. (Yes that's me with my hand on my hip... typical post sorority girl.)

{four}

This past week I also celebrated someone very near and dear to my heart... my momma! When it comes to moms I could not have been given a better one. Happy Birthday to the woman I am lucky enough to call mom, you mean the world to me and more!

{five}

This weekend marks the first in a long time that I will be in Richmond off work but also without plans! I can't wait to sleep in, relax, hang out with my roommates, and have a little "me" time. 

How will you be spending your weekend?

Yours truly,

Emily

Let's Talk Facial Oils...

Now that the Fall weather appears to be here to stay, it's time to start re-evaluating your normal routine and gear up for the cooler weather. I have classic combination skin, oil in some areas and dryer in others with occasional break outs. Due to my skin type, I have always shyed away from anything that involves adding oil to my skin thinking it would be a recipe for breakouts and majorly shiny skin. However recently after doing a bit of research, I am thinking I may have to give the whole facial oil thing a try. Here are a few that I have researched and some information about each!

Let's Talk About Facial Oils by ead0724 featuring Peter Thomas Roth

Murad face cleanser / Peter Thomas Roth bath body product / Fresh beauty product / Clarins beauty product / Jurlique beauty product / Josie Maran beauty product / Tarte beauty product / Philosophy beauty product

Josie Maran Argan Oil

(I read nothing but rave reviews about this one and was happy to find that they also offer a "Light" version.)

With its multitasking benefits, Argan Oil can be used for many areas including hydrating and nourishing skin, as a daily moisturizer, skin treatment, treating spilt ends, and softening cuticles. It's gentle enough to use on all skin types and is believed to help with skin conditions including acne. Argan Oil easily absorbs into skin to give you a youthful, dewy glow, and has astonishing healing, conditioning, and antiaging properties to keep your skin and hair nourished and revitalized and to keep you looking beautiful from head to toe. 

Murad Cleansing Oil

This light, non-comedogenic cleanser gently removes impurities, irritants, and makeup to restore that youthful glow. It eases dryness and promotes suppleness, leaving the complexion smooth, hydrated, and healthy. 

Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil

This undiluted organic and moisturizing maracuja oil quickly absorbs for firmer, brighter, smoother skin. Pure maracuja oil is rich in vitamin C, so skin appears instantly brighter and more radiant, as well as essential fatty acids (EFAs), a requirement for healthy skin cells that the body cannot produce on its own. EFA deficiency can result in the breakdown of essential skin cells which causes skin to appear dry and aged. By supplementing skin with pure maracuja oil, you are infusing life back into dull skin and replenishing EFAs to rapidly rebuild and repair. This potent antiaging elixir that has anti-inflammatory benefits promotes active skin recovery and delivers maximum hydration without any greasy or filmy feel.

Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing Oil

Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil is a precious blend of pure oils—seaberry, cranberry seed, camellia seed, grapeseed, and sweet almond—packed with restorative omegas to maintain a youthful appearance. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly for a boost of vital moisture, while vitamin E works to maintain the skin’s elasticity and smoothness. This powerful antioxidant protects the skin from aging free radicals, leaving your complexion soft, smooth, and refreshed. 

Philosophy Total Mattness

(This one is more of a pore minimizer serum but I still wanted to include it due to its rave reviews!)

Visibly reduce the size and appearance of pores with this powerful, mattifying serum. Lentil seed extract helps support the pore wall, making pores less apparent, while salicylic acid helps remove build-up of dead cells around the pore wall, brightening their darkened appearance. Natural bamboo extract helps absorb excess oil and control shine for a soft-touch finish. 

Jurlique Skin Balancing Face Oil

Indulge in this luxurious, lightweight hydrating oil that nourishes and balances all skin types. Its versatile, non-greasy blend of six plant oils mimics skin’s own natural lipids to achieve optimal balance and infuses pure antioxidant nutrients to visibly enhance the skin for a flawless complexion.

Peter Thomas Roth Oilless Oil

Recommended for all skin types, this luxurious moisturizer softens skin while improving the look of fine lines, elasticity, and radiance. Lightweight, odorless squalane mimics the naturally occurring squalene found in the body’s own lipid barrier—it rapidly absorbs into skin and does not create a surface barrier like an oil, allowing skin to breathe. This must-have moisturizer deeply hydrates and helps prevent water loss, leaving skin silky-smooth and comfortable to the touch without an oily or greasy after-feel. 

Clarins Lotus Face Treatment Oil

Clarins’ exclusive blend of rosewood, geranium, and lotus extracts purify, tighten pores, and refine the skin texture. Hazelnut oil softens, soothes, and seals in moisture to prevent fine lines. 

Have you tried a facial oil yet?

Yours truly,
Emily

Free Glasses Anyone?

Just because summer is over doesn't mean you no longer need the best pair of sunnies. I was over the moon excited when I received and email from Firmoo asking if I would be interested in reviewing a pair of their sunglasses. I recognized the name immediately and knew it was because I had seen a review post done by Emily! I have followed Emily's blog for years now and was honestly honored that I had been contacted by a company that she also reviewed for. Not to mention, who doesn't want to try out a fabulous pair sunglasses. 

I ended up ordering the same ones as Emily and can't say enough about them. 

These glasses are seriously a steal at only $49! I've never been one to buy super expensive sunglasses and normally just grab a pair at Target. However, knowing that I can have a stylish chic pair of sunglasses that doesn't break the bank... I am a happy girl. It should also go as no surprise that I was in love with the tortoise detail and slight purple tint, too cute! Firmoo has a great selection of other glasses too, especially their prescription eye wear. Here's a few that I also have my eye on...

I may have a slight obsession with Tortoise shell.

Another reason you have to try out Firmoo... they are giving you a FREE pair of glasses! Yes you read that correctly... click the link and you can pick out your very own pair of glasses for FREE, the only thing you have to pay is shipping! 

Happy Shopping!

Yours truly,

Emily

Weekend Review- From The Beach to The Mountains

This past weekend, with the exception of catching a nasty cold was absolutely amazing. Thursday night I traveled down to the Outer Banks with my good friend Lauren and the bride to be in just a few weeks. The house we rented was beyond perfect and situated right on the ocean, so close I could hear the ocean when I woke up Friday morning. Here's a few snapshots of the beach...

Friday morning, Lauren and I were up early and decided a long walk on the beach would be perfect to kick start our day. The weather was absolutely beautiful and I am so thankful the the sun was shining. The rest of the day consisted of a yummy lunch at one of the local restaurants, outlet shopping, and lounging around the house. 

I had to head back to Richmond Friday night to catch my friend, Liz's birthday that was being celebrated Saturday in Charlottesville. The weather was pretty overcast on Saturday morning and called for a few showers so I settled for something warm and cozy

Boots: Banana Republic Leggings: TJ Maxx Chambray Shirt: Gap Outlet

Sweater: TJ Maxx Tortoise Shell Necklace: TJ Maxx Watch: Nordstroms 

Thank goodness the weather cleared up and we ended up having a great day at the wineries

Veritas Winery

View from Pippin Hill (my personal favorite)

Pippin Hill was also setting up for a wedding and I couldn't help but snap a picture of the beautiful set up. 

As you know, the rest of the weekend was spent sick snuggling in bed and relaxing. 

How did you spend your weekend?

Yours truly, 

Emily

Sick Day

Sick Day by ead0724 featuring a grey bedding

H&M plus size top, $40 / Old Navy black pants / John Robshaw throw pillow / Crate and Barrel grey bedding / Le Mouton Noir & Co Tie Tea Mug / Audiovox DIRECTV Universal Remote Control (RC65)

Unfortunately I think all of my long weeks at work followed by a packed weekend has caught up to me. Saturday while at the vineyards I started feeling pretty sick and ended up with a full blown fever, sore throat, chills... the whole thing. Working in a hospital, I thought my immune system had been built up to work against anything but it appears as though my body feels differently and needs some rest. Today will be spent lounging around attempting to kick this cold/flu. 

Yours truly, 

Emily

Wine Tasting For The Day

Wine Tasting For The Day by ead0724 featuring glass wine glasses

J.Crew top / Isabel Marant black legging / Frye riding boots / Marc by Marc Jacobs leather handbag / Monsoon print scarve / Williams-Sonoma glass wine glasses

5 on Friday

Happy Friday y'all! Thank goodness it is Friday because after working so much these past few weeks... this girl finally gets a break! Sorry for the lack of posting this week, after working back to back weekends and long hours both weeks, I am exhausted! Luckily I am feeling extremely blessed and lucky this Friday and so excited to share why for this weeks...

{One}

This was my view I woke up to this morning... yep I am one happy girl. Last night after getting off work, I picked up my friend Lauren and we headed to Kitty Hawk to celebrate her bachelorette weekend! This morning we took a long walk on the beach, grabbed Starbucks, and now have the whole day ahead of us. 

{Two}

 Monday mornings are a lot easier when your off AND start the day off with a long walk and coffee date catching up with a friend. 

{Three}

 Loving my new small jewelry holder form Anthropologie. 

{Four}

Tuesday we had a Halloween patty at work and it was so much fun! This picture was featured on my hospital's facebook page, love my little munchkins!

{Five}

Tomorrow I will be heading to Charlottesville for a day of wine tasting celebrating one of my best friend, Liz's birthday! 

How will you be spending your weekend?

Yours truly, 

Emily

What A Week...

This week has been absolutely insane and this quote is going to be my mantra to get me through the day...

Yes it's been one of those weeks.

One more day until Friday!

Yours truly, 

Emily

Meals For the Week...

This week is a bit crazy y'all. Yesterday I was off from working the weekend and it was absolutely amazing. I went for a walk, got breakfast with a friend, ran errands, went to barre, went grocery shopping, AND made a yummy dinner. The rest of the week consists of work Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday then heading to the OBX for my friend Lauren's bachelorette weekend! I am so excited for a mini getaway from Richmond and hoping the weather will cooperate and allow at least a few walks on the beach! Friday night I will be heading back to Richmond to leave on Saturday morning for a little winery touring in Charlottesville! Talk about a jam packed week and weekend... this girl is going to be exhausted come Sunday.

Being that this week is a bit hectic I wanted to make sure I had a few meals planned for the week so I made two of my favorites, Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin and Quinoa with Roasted Veggies! You can find my spaghetti squash recipe here! It super easy and has definitely become a go to favorite.

This week I tried something new with my quinoa and cooked it using vegetable broth and added in some veggies. One of my favorite fellow bloggers, Ashley posted this simple but tasty recipe and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

Here is my version of Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:
Quinoa
Vegetable broth
Brussel Spouts
Mushrooms
Zucchini
Garlic
Salt and Pepper
Olive Oil

Being by slicing the veggies and tossing them with olive oil, salt/pepper, and garlic.
Spread vegetables on lined cookie sheet and cook at 400 for 20-30 minutes.
While your veggies are cooking, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add quinoa. Allow to simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Once veggies are done, combine with quinoa and enjoy!

Both of these recipes will be great to reheat during the week, not to mention their both tasty and healthy!

What are a few of your go to meals for the week?

Scenes From The Weekend

Not much to report from the weekend being that I worked Saturday and Sunday but here are some happenings...

 Finally got around to trying this yumminess. Run to your local Target to try it out

Sported my new booties for a little errand running. Shocker I'm also wearing my field jacket... safe to say I will be living in it. 

 A little pumpkin painting and wine... perfect Sunday night activity!

Picked up a new read that I am LOVING so far!

How did you spend your weekend?

Yours truly, 

Emily

5 on Friday

Happy Friday friends! Having yesterday and today off has been quiet the treat and I would be lying if I said a little part of me wasn't sad about going back to work tomorrow. Luckily weekends at work tend to be slower and I am hoping to get out a little early. Here's this weeks

One.

 Post 6 day stretch after a 10 hour day called for a glass of red and some perusing at Anthro

Two.

I wish I could tell y'all where I got this adorable Iphone background. I found it on pinterest and can't seem to find the original source but it sure does brighten my day when I glance at my phone!

Three.

Like I mentioned yesterday, we have had some pretty cool temps here in Richmond and my day off of errand running called for flats, leggings, a sweater, and a field jacket. 

 Four.

Treating myself to a Hot Cinnamon Spiced Tea and a stack of magazines at Barnes and Noble was necessary for a cold rainy day off. 

Five. 

That's right y'all... it's outlet shopping time! 50% off everything at Banana AND J.Crew... happy shopping!

Hope y'all have a wonderful a weekend!

Yours truly,

Emily

Thoughts For Thursday

First off, thank you all for the sweet comments and emails about balancing work and life! It is definitely a struggle that I need to work on but I am hoping little by little I will be able to focus on what matters and take care of myself a little bit. Like I mentioned yesterday, I am off today and tomorrow and totally looking forward to some R&R. I do have a lengthy to do list, however I am thinking of deferring that until tomorrow and spending today doing a whole lot of nothing! Other then work, work, work... here's a few other things on my mind this week!

{The weather here in Richmond is finally feeling like fall and I could not be happier! Although we've had lots of rain, we've also had some cooler temps that have called for leggings and sweaters!}

{This week I may or may not had time to grocery shop which lead me to eat absolutely anything leftover from last week... an omelet was definitely on the menu a few times}

{Coffee is absolute mood changer for me every morning}

{Anyone else not exactly thrilled with Homeland this season? I watched it religiously last season and could not wait for the new season but have been sadly disappointed so far.}

{I am thinking of changing the design of my blog, any recommendations on template sites are welcomed!}

{I don't think it's a coincidence that I get paid tomorrow and J.Crew factory just announced their 50% off everything sale this weekend... here's a few things in my basket:

Factory Cotton Charley Sweater

Factory Winnie Pant

Factory Skinny Ankle Jean

Factory Waffle Infinity Scarf

Factory Artist Boatneck Tee

Factory Printed Chambray Pullover

What's been on your mind this week?

Yours truly, 

Emily