Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Just What The Doctor Ordered....



This past weekend was just what the doctor ordered... catching up with friends, yummy food, and lots of time outside. Yesterday I was in denial that it was Monday and another week was beginning and was already filled with things to do almost every day. Here's a few snapshots from the past weekend...

My good friend Allen made the trip up from North Carolina and decided to hang in Richmond for the night on Friday. I originally had plans for Restaurant week with a few girlfriends and was thrilled when we added him to the reservation. We had an amazing meal at Bistro Bobette before heading out to meet up with a few other friends that were in town. 

Saturday we were up early and walked to grab brunch at a nearby favorite- Curbside. 

It's pretty much a hole in the wall spot but you can't beat their outdoor patio, mimosas, and brie/spinach/tomato omelet!

After brunch we headed to a friends from college river house in Maryland. Everything he has a spring party with boat rides, grilling out, and corn hole and I was so excited to be able to make it this year. I met two of my best friends there and couldn't have been more happy to spend the whole day with them. 


Sunday we took the boat to brunch at The Lighthouse in Solomons and had such a good time that we nearly stayed all day. 

The weather was perfect for sitting outside and I would be lying if I said we didn't indulge in a few orange crushes. 

This past weekend was truly a blessing and I am thankful to have been surrounded by such wonderful friends all weekend. Here's to hoping this week flies by, its off to North Carolina on Friday for the first wedding of the season! 

Yours truly, 
Emily 








Friday, April 25, 2014

5 on Friday



From yesterday's vent session I'm sure you can imagine that this week was hardly something to rave about. I couldn't be happier that Friday is finally here and I get to spend my weekend with great friends I haven't seen in too long enjoying the beautiful weather. Let's take a look at the week and this upcoming weekend...

{one}
This week I was off on Monday to extend my time with my family and could not be happier I did. I enjoyed a great day with my mom and grandma shopping at the outlets, grabbing lunch outside on the water, and working on a few gifts for upcoming weddings I have.


{two}
This past week I only worked out twice but my workouts were 2 amazing spin classes at Boho. I have talked about Boho a lot on the blog but I honestly love it! This past week I took one of Kristen's classes and loved her music selection and positive messages throughout class. I also took Shannon's class which definitely kicked my butt but felt great. If you are in the Richmond area, I highly suggest you check out Boho, it has become my favorite workout.



{three}



Last night I participated in Richmond's restaurant week for the first time and ate at Hardshell. It was absolutely amazing and my first time doing restaurant week since living in Richmond. for $25 you were able to get a three course meal- for mine I chose the She Crab Soup, Seared Salmon, and Bread pudding for desert. I went with 3 of my girlfriends and that the best time catching up and treating ourselves to yummy dinner. 


{four}
This weekend I am heading to the river to enjoy some time outside amongst friends. It will be a great time and I can't wait to be around some of my best friends that I haven't seen in far too long!



{five}
Amen. 

Yours truly, 
Emily 



Thursday, April 24, 2014

Thoughts for Thursday



Lord have mercy y'all, if this week does not come to end soon I will surely have to indulge in a few glasses of wine or something! My week has been thrown off majorly since traveling home Sunday afternoon and being off Monday. While I loved spending the extra day with my family, it has definitely caused me to be one step behind each day. My days at work have been long, stressful, and tiring and I am counting down until the weekend to relax and enjoy friends. It may turn out to be vent session but here are a few things on my mind currently...

- It's no secret I work in a Children's Hospital and am bound to have sad cases and bad days but 4 new oncology diagnosis in 2 weeks is a bit much for me to handle... wine please. 

- The weather has been absolutely beautiful and I am loving the walk to work from my car with no jacket or boots! 

- I am slightly stressing over finding a dress for a wedding I will be going to in 2 weeks, suggestions welcomed.

- So far I have done spin twice this week and it has kicked my butt, my legs are majorly sore and in need of a good yoga session. 

- The past few mornings I have been the worst about picking out what to wear each morning, both mornings have ended in my bed covered in clothes and me leaving 5 minutes late. 

- I can't get enough lemon in my water, each I bring a few lemon wedges to work and love the fresh taste it gives my water throughout the day!

- I have never had allergies until moving to Richmond and I can officially say I have fallen victim. I've yet to find an allergy medicine that works, anyone have any they would recommend? 

-This quote made my week and I have been reminding myself of it daily- move on and everything will fall in place, just as it should.


Here's to one more day until Friday!

Yours truly,
Emily 

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Mid Week Muse

Mid Week Muse





This week I am participating in a new link up hosted by Ann and Morgan! I am so excited for this new link up and couldn't be more excited for them as they take on this new adventure! I am new follower to Morgan of Pampers and Pearls and have no idea how I am just finding out about her blog- it is amazing! If you have not checked it out, I highly suggest you do so, she is one stylish momma that seems so sweet and down to earth! I am a long time follower of Ann and would even consider her one of my "blogger friends." Though we have not yet met, I am hoping a meeting will be in our near future! 

This week week I was channeling a chic all black look, with pops of color and gold. Perfect for any summer event from a barbecue to a night out with friends!

Be sure to check out both Ann and Morgan's page for their Mid Week Muse and participate in the link up and the chance to win a giveaway! 


Yours truly, 
Emily 

Friday, April 18, 2014

5 on Friday- Five Things That Make Me Happy



This wasn't the most eventful week and I did a terrible job of taking pictures throughout it, so rather then share moments of the past week, this week I am trying something different. This week I want to talk about the top 5 things that make my happy. While there are tons of things that make me happy and make me smile, those listed below are my top picks! 


{One}
Time Spent with my family 
I'm only child, and no I promise I do not have only child syndrome... my mom made sure to knock any notion of that when I was younger. Being that I'm an only child I'm incredibly close with my family and absolutely cherish any time I get to spend with them. Getting away for a weekend at home and spending time with my mom and gram is the best medicine for anything and I can't wait to see them this coming Sunday for Easter!


{Two}
Cooking
There is nothing I love more then heading into the kitchen, a little Van Morrison, glass of wine and a recipe. Cooking is something I have always loved, its therapeutic, something I do myself and can forget about everything that happened that day and put my mind to making something yummy. I'm more of a cook then a baker but definitely love to whip up something sweet every now and then. Recipe or no recipe being in kitchen and either trying something new or making one of my favorite dishes, cooking will always be something that brings me joy. 


{Three}
My friends
I have no idea what I would do without my friends. They never cease to amaze me with all of their amazing accomplishments. We all live in different cities and I love when we get the opportunity to get together and spend the weekend laughing and catching up. I miss them terribly and wish I got to see them more but can't wait to them soon for our big San Francisco trip in May!


{Four}
My patients
I am beyond blessed to work with such amazing patients and families every day. Working with hematology/oncology patients definitely has its moments and there are days when I don't think I can do my job.However there are others when I can't imagine doing anything different. The children I meet and interact with on a daily basis are so resilient and over come everything from chemo to amputations. They are the reason I get up every day and go to work and for the most part the reason I am constantly smiling throughout the day. 


{Five}
"Me" Time
I am huge believer in making time for yourself. I normally have Fridays off and whether I am running around doing errands, shopping or going to Barnes and Noble I love that time by myself. Working in the field I do, it can be emotionally and physically exhausting, taking time to relax and refuel is key in making sure I can actually do my job and do it well. "Me" time is essential and definitely something I make time for every week.


What makes you happy? 

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!

Your truly,
Emily 




Thursday, April 17, 2014

Shopbop Sale picks!


Shopbop is currently offering an amazing sale- 25% off everything using the code "INTHEFAMILY14". They have tons of great stuff right now and here are a few of my picks...


Marysia Swim Antibes Scallop Bikini 

I've had my eye on this for a few months and think I am going to end up ordering it in the black. It is such a timeless classic looking bikini!



Susana Monaco Crew Dress
You can never have too many little black dresses and this one is killer. I love black dresses and how versatile they are- paired with a pair of nude pumps or fun wedges and a statement necklace. 


Only Hearts Pixie Pointelle Sleep Shorts
I am a sucker for anything comfy to sleep in and think these would be perfect for those warmer summer nights. 


Kate Spade Brigit Sunglasses
I normally don't spring for sunglasses on account of how much I lose them but these are stunning. At just a little over $100, they are definitely something worth the investment and would be perfect come summer time!


Club Monaco Amber Shorts
Love love love these cute scallop shorts. 




Today is the last day for the sale so make you check it out and be sure to enter the promo code! Hope everyone is everything a great week so far- one more day until Friday!

Yours truly, 
Emily 

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Weekend Recap



This past weekend I traveled to Cleveland OH for a conference and was definitely looking forward to getting away and having a bit of "me" time. I arrived Saturday afternoon and checked into my hotel which was located right downtown in the Tower City area. Once settled into my hotel room I headed out to explore a bit and grab a drink as it had been a long day of traveling. I decided to try out a place nested along East 6th St. called Lolas. It had a pretty good crowd and a bar that looked like it was made out of Himalayan rock... pretty cool. I ordered the Grapefruit Gimlet... shocker with my grapefruit obsessed but it was amazing.


I've never been a big go to the bar by myself kind of person and would be lying if I said I wasn't a bit nervous. I ended up sitting next to an older couple and had the best time talking with them. They were absolutely adorable college sweethearts and the best part was turns out she's an older Alpha Xi Delta. This led to more talking, more drinks, and before I knew it I had had a few one too many. Not the great idea before a conference when you have to be up at 6 but I don't regret it one bit. It was so interesting talking to her and her husband and learning about her chapter and how the sorority was when she was a member. 

Saturday was long long long and made for a pretty early night that consisted of finishing my book and ordering room service. 

If you haven't read this book, I highly suggest it! I actually started it Saturday morning while waiting for a my flight and polished it off that same night!

Gotta love a good room service meal, I ordered the Caesar salad with herb encrusted salmon... seriously amazing. 

Sunday was more sessions at conference followed by an evening flight and making it back to Richmond around 10. Overall the weekend getaway was great and filled with lots of relaxing, networking, and taking in a lot of new information from the conference. 

As for this week I have some flex time due to attending the conference which leaves me with extra hours to leave early a few days this week! I have a few spin classes planned, a catch up date with a friend, and fun outdoor music event to end the week on Friday. 

Here's to what I hope will be an easy quick week!

Yours truly,
Emily



Monday, April 14, 2014

Friday, April 11, 2014

5 on Friday



Happy Friday friends! I am so happy that Friday is finally here and this long week has come to an end! I was terrible about documenting throughout the week but here's a look at this week and upcoming weekend....


{one}
One of my favorite things about Richmond is that it is definitely a "foodie" city. Every week new and exciting restaurants pop up and become the "it" thing to try out. Being that food is such a big deal here, it's no surprise we feel pretty serious about food trucks! This past Tuesday I had a hellishly long day at work, aka almost 13 hours and couldn't have been happier then when I passed food truck food court on my way home from work. Lucky for me, food truck food court is happening just a block from my house EVERY Tuesday  night. I am beyond excited and can't wait to try out some different carts other then my standard go to - Boka for some yummy tofu tacos. 


{two}
This past week a group of girlfriends and I reserved a house in Charleston for the beginning of September. I couldn't be more excited about this getaway and think it will be the perfect trip to unwind after whats looking like will be a crazy busy summer!



{three}
This week I made another fritata to have for breakfast throughout the week! It has become one of my favorite things to whip up on Sunday nights and love adding various ingredients. Look for my new recipe next week!


{four}
This weekend I am off to Cleveland for a work conference! I will be staying downtown and while at first I was a bit nervous to just be on my own, I am actually looking forward to a little "me" time and exploring the city. I've looked up a few restaurants to try out, where the good shopping is, and even a few good parks in case the weather permits for some reading outside. If you have any Cleveland recs I am all ears!


{five}
Loving this quote right now. Sometimes its so easy to get caught up in where we think we should be or compare ourselves to others. Relax, keep your head up, and know everything is just as it should be.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Yours truly, 
Emily 



Thursday, April 10, 2014

Obsessions



Anyone else having a major desire to go spring/summer shopping?! I have been absolutely broke the past few weeks and with all the warm weather and pay day arriving, I am finding myself wanting to do some major shopping! Here's a few things I have been eyeing...

J.Crew Factory Exploded Eyelet Skirt
It's beyond me why I haven't actually bought this dress yet. It's by no means expensive and would be perfect to wear to wear with flats to work or paired with wedges for a fun night out. If anyone has this skirt, I would love to know the fit/ how you like it!

Old Navy Ponte Knit Shift Dress

Last week I did bit the bullet and buy this dress, it was on major sale and I couldn't help myself. I had tried it on in black at the store but felt it was a little long and was unable to find a petite size. I was so excited to see they offered in petite sizes online and ended up scooping it up!


Rent the Runway Wild One Dress by Nanette Lepore
I have a few weddings coming up and have been wanting to try out Rent The Runway. I spotted this Nanette Lapore dress and am thinking it could be perfect paired with some nude pumps and gold jewelry. Anyone have any good experience from working with Rent The Runway?


J Brand Anja Jean
I've heard really great reviews about J Brand jeans but have yet to buy any! These look perfect for chillier summer nights and could be great dressed down with flats or jacks or up with wedges and pumps!

House of Harlow Mini Starburst
I have the larger black Starburst pendent and wear it constantly. I am loving the look of this smaller one and think it could be worn just as much as my larger black one!


Wouldn't it be a dream if I could afford all of these things! Sadly some will have to wait but I am loving all the above. 

What are some things you have been shopping for?


Yours truly, 
Emily






Wednesday, April 9, 2014

A Little Q&A... Getting To Know Me

Happy Wednesday friends! I was having the hardest time thinking about things to post for the week until I saw Christa's post yesterday from Forever Young! I have always loved the idea of doing a Q&A and love that it gives you a deeper look into someone's life and allows you to get to know them a little better. Christa was nice enough to let me use her format and I am excited about today's post and the opportunity for my readers to know a little bit more about me! Enjoy!


What brings you the greatest joy?
Seeing my patients and their families happy, spending time with my own family and friends, and spending just with me doing the things I love (i.e Barnes and Noble, long walks, or shopping)
2. What are your vices? 
Netflix, wine,  and checking Instagram (by far my favorite form of social media)
3. What is on your nightstand? 
Girls in White Dresses, Rosebud Salve Lip Balm, and a candle 

4. Do you have a secret talent? 
Yikes, not that I can think of!
5. What is your greatest indulgence? 
Wine or going out to nice dinner
6. What should every woman try at least once in her life? 
Going on a vacation by herself, I have gone on work conferences by myself and they have been very relaxing. I would like one of the next vacations I take to be solo and spent just having "me" time.
7. What makes you laugh? 
Talking with my friends or grandmother, late night talks with my roommates, SNL
8. What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I never learned how to ride a bike when I was little. My friends in college tried to teach me but it was unsuccessful. 
9. Were do you dream about traveling?
I am beyond excited about going to San Francisco in May but would love to eventually make it to Greece! 
10. What is on your feet right now? 
Flats
11. How did you make your first dollar?  
I started babysitting when I was 14. I couldn't even drive but either my parents or who I was babysitting for picked me up and dropped me off. 
12. What superstition do you believe in? 
In the hospital we fully believe if you say a patients name while they are not admitted, sure enough they will be later that day or the next. 

13. What items in your closet do you wear the most?
Blouses or match stick black pants 
14. What is the best gift you've ever received? 
I've received so many special gifts from my family but probably my favorite have been from my patients, mostly just little drawings and things they have created but they are so special to me.
15. Favorite television show?
I don't think I have a favorite but I love Scandal, Girls, or Orange Is The New Black
16. What is on your kitchen counter? 
Our kitchen counter stays pretty clear, a knife holder, toaster, and bowl of fruit.
17. What would you never leave home without? 
My phone. I'm sure it would be nice to not have it for a day but it's also my pager at work.
18. Favorite part of the day? 
My drive home from work. It's not a surprise for me to stay at late much later then I should or for me to have a work day that is both physically and emotionally exhausting. My drive home from work is often my time to process everything from the day, blast the music, have the windows down and let it all out before I get home. 
19. Who is on the guest list for your ideal dinner party? 
If Jackie Kennedy was still alive, she would most definitely make the list in addition to Jennifer Anniston and Julia Roberts, they'll forever be my favorites.
20. What is one thing you wish you had known when you were younger? 
Don't take things so seriously. Half the things we worry and stress about won't matter a year from now and if they do, they have a way of working themselves out. 

Yours truly, 
Emily