Catching up

Now that I have a few days off for Thanksgiving, I thought it would be a good time to catch up on the  'ol blog. As I mentioned in my post a few weeks ago, life has really been crazy and I feel like I've barrely had any time to relax since ending summer and it now being Thanksgiving week! Here's a bit of what I have been up to...

Watching:

I need a new show to get into but I have watched a few episodes of This is Us as well as The Crown on Netflix. I also thought of hopping on the Gilmore Girls bandwagon as I have yet to ever watch it so stay tuned. Anyone have any show suggestions?

Making:

Lately I've definitely kicked up my cooking lately and have been so happy to try a few new recipes. These are a few of my favorites I've tried out recently...

Sausage and Kale Saute with Polenta

White bean pumpkin turkey chili 

Buffalo chicken chili 

Wanting:

So far I only have a few things on my Christmas list but am hoping to get some more ideas while I'm home. So far I have my eye on...

Patagonia Classic Retro X Fleece Vest

Fitbit Charge 2

Black Monogrammed Sunshine Satchel 

Gifting:

With Christmas only weeks away ::insert shocked emoji face:: I am trying to get as much of my Christmas shopping done this weekend as I can. A few of the things I plan to gift include this amazing earring rack (for someone who has everything), this staple clutch,  these cozy pajama pants, and this classic looking tray. 

Reading: 

I have read so many good books lately, most of which I've gotten from the Reese Witherspoon Book Club. Last night I started The Couple Next door and stayed up entirely too late reading it but am already half way done, it's so good. Next will be The Truth About Jellyfish and The Girl in Cabin 10,

Loving:

Having five days off to relax and hang out with my family and catch up with friends from home. The past few times I have been at home it's been super quick and only been an overnight stay which hasn't left me much time to spend with friends or family. This trip, I took 4 days from work and can't wait to just relax and spend time in one of my favorite cities, Annapolis! 

Drinking: 

I am in full red wine mode lately but seriously having a hard time figuring out what I like. I'll try a pinot noir and like it and then a merlot and also like it and then a cab sav and like it too. I tend to like something not try at all, super smooth, and pretty bold. 

Any recs?

Needing to hear:

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Back to Blogging: Weekend Things

I know what you're thinking, "oh that blog still exists." So sorry for the long overdue posts but life has just gotten away from me and I have been feeling less the inspired. Who knows how long the posts will continue this time but this morning I felt in the mood so I am just going for it. How the heck is it November? I've been nonstop at work for the past few months and am really looking forward to this month and next for a little less craziness and hoping to enjoy some serious downtime. On tap for this weekend includes grabbing dinner tonight while my dad is in town at one of our favorite osyter spots, catching up on some shows and reading, and possibly catching a football game. Here's to hopefully being back in the blog world and to a fun weekend ahead!

Finds and picks of the week...

// I have been on a major recipe kick lately and was so happy to find this article on how to make more things with one of my favorite foods, sweet potatoes!

// These booties are supposed to arrive today and I can not wait.

// Other plans this weekend include starting this new series, I am majorly looking forward to it, anyone else? 

// Sephora's VIB sale is just around the corner and I plan on scooping up a few things including this moisturizer, my go to under eye concealer, and this new lip shade. 

// And in case you need a reminder...

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Lately...

Being that it's been quite some time since posting regularly, I figured a "lately" post was in order to catch everyone up on what I have been up to. I can't believe it's already almost mid- July, where did the summer go? My birthday is just next week and August will be here before you know it and then it will be time for one of my all time favorite parts of the year- college football! But but before we get too ahead of ourselves, here's little bit of what has been going on in my world...

Wearing:

(I apologize for the quality)

A few weeks ago I hit the jackpot at TJ Maxx and walked out with this dress, 2 rompers, and a pair of Lucky brand sandals. I had been looking for an asymmetrical hem dress and was majorly excited when I found this black one as an option for a friends upcoming wedding. 

Weekend errands have been spent wearing these Paige denim shorts and an over sized pullover I've had for forever. 

Eating: 

Yesterday I made a big batch of shredded chicken to have for the week to add to salads, wraps, or just to eat plain. I couldn't believe how easy it was and followed this recipe. 

Reading:

I am almost finished reading this book and I can't recommend it enough. It had a bit of a slow start but once you got into it, it really picked up and I have been reading it nonstop. A few weeks ago I also finished Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave and Barefood by Elin Hilderbrand, both of which I would recommend. 

Listening:

If you haven't listened to Sturgill Simpson yet, do so now. He has been on major repeat and I don't hate it. 

Wanting:

With my birthday just a little over a week away, I have definitely had my eye on a few things, including this Native Look necklace piece

These are made right in Raleigh, NC and I love how different they are. I think it would be perfect thrown on with a black casual dress or even a white top and jeans. 

Watching:

Ever since picking up on my reading, my bedtime routine has completely changed and while I once used to wind down with Netflix, reading has become the new pre-bed activity. Every once in awhile if I am bored or just wanting some down time I've been watching, drumroll please and hold the judging...

Don't ask me how or why I got sucked into this show but I am already on season 2 and love how mindless and easy it is to watch. 

Needing: 

Maybe it's related to stress or sunscreen but my face has been all kinds of broken out lately. My roommate loves this I Image Clear Cleanser and swears it has cleared up her skin dramatically. I am hoping to check it out in the next week or two and will report back. 

I think that about does it for everything I have been up to lately! Check back tomorrow for more things on my birthday wishlist! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Monday Vibes

Happy Monday friends! 

After working all weekend and continuing into the week, I am less then thrilled for this week but hoping it will pass by quick because my mom will be visiting this weekend! I haven't seen my mom in almost 2 months and while that may not seem like a long time, for us its probably almost the longest! I can't wait to relax, shop, snag some yummy meals, and possibly take a day trip to the beach. Here's to hoping this week is a quick one! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Sunday Shopping

Happy Saturday friends! 

I am back this Sunday to bring you a few things I've had my eye on. July is officially my birthday month and when my mom asked me what I wanted, I decided to take to the web and see what I could find. And what else happens when you take to online shopping... you find all too much. This weekend I am working both Saturday and Sunday, womp womp but hoping to grab some time outside once I get off and also drinks with friends. Enough about that though, here's a few picks and finds...

White Cold Shoulder Ruffle Sleeve Top

I have pretty broad shoulders which unfortunately makes it hard to pull off anything off the shoulder that looks decent. I love the strap detail of this top and its less then $20 price tag.

Cold Shoulder Cami Top in Black

Very similar to the other but a little more flowy.

Swing Crew Neck Tee

I am all for a good tee and these have been a favorite as of lately. I love to pair them with jeans and sandals for running errands. 

Teal Print Romper

This is a little different for me but I am all about a good romper. This would be perfect thrown over a bathing suit from the beach or perfect for warmer weather and a summer concert. 

Sam Edelman "Gemma" Lace Up Sandal

I have yet to really hop on the gladiator sandal train because I am not really sure its the right look for me. However these look like just the right mix of edge, comfort, and trendy that I could do. 

Hope everyone had a lovely weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend Report

Anyone else think that Tuesdays are even worse then Mondays? Maybe its just me but its not even midweek, it's the day after Monday and just overall feels so much longer. Today's weekend report is coming a day late well just because but I am here to report a fun and relaxing weekend...

Friday I was able to leave work a little early and on my way home stopped to get some apps and wine for a few girls coming over later that night. Trader Joes is normally my go to spot but for whatever reason I decided to switch it up and try Whole Foods. I went with the basics- cheese and crackers, veggies and hummus, and chips and salsa...all my favorites. 

We tried out this hummus and it was amazing, I highly recommend it. 

After a few apps and glasses of wine we ventured out to a new Raleigh spot on Glenwood Ave- MilkBar. 

From yummy cocktails to a good beer selection AND skee ball machines, this place was so much fun and I am already looking forward to going back. A cool thing about this place is that its open during the day as well- definitely a spot to check out at any time of day. 

Saturday we headed to the lake for some sunshine and more girl time and was also able to get on the boat. The weather forecast wasn't looking promising but we totally lucked out and ended up spending most of the day outside. Saturday night we whipped up a yummy dinner of smoked chicken and grilled veggies and spent the evening drinking too much wine and playing cards against humanity. 

Sunday I headed back to Raleigh fairly early to try and get a jump start on the week but only ended up getting a few things done before grabbing an afternoon drink at another Raleigh favorite of mine- Vita Vite. 

 After some yummy wine and cheese it was off to a friends for a cookout. 

Overall an amazing weekend and I am already counting down the days until Friday! And if anyone else is having a case of the Tuesdays like myself... here's a little inspiration...

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend

I figured what better way to reintroduce myself to my blog and the blogging world then by kicking off a weekend post before a great long weekend ahead. I apologize for the silence around here, I can't believe I let my blog go for so long without 1 post. I thought seriously about deleting it but in the end decided I wasn't ready and while I may not post a lot, my blog and the blogging community still mean a great deal to me. Today's post just includes a few finds from this past week and possible options for this weekend...

// I love every inch of this apartment and wishing I was calling it my own home for the weekend

// There are some really great Memorial Day sales out there and I am thinking of scooping up this top, these jeans, and these fun sunglasses. 

// I am planning on having a pretty low key weekend and can't wait to spend some time outside just relaxing but with this heat, you better believe I will have my new favorite cocktail in hand. If you haven't tried this yet you are seriously missing out. 

// I picked up a few avocados from the store yesterday that are perfect for this recipe. 

// This quote is perfection for me right now and some personal things I have going on. I will leave it at that just say praise the lawd its Friday! 

Hope everyone has a lovely long weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Currently...

Being that I have totally let this blog get away from me, I am going to attempt to share a bit of what has been going on. I feel like every week I mean to sit down and schedule a post or two but then I get caught up doing a million other things and to be honest the blog is often the last thing on my mind.  But who isn't busy these days, without continuing to give excuses... here's whats been on going on currently...

Listening to:

I can't get enough of The Lumineers newest album. Sleep on the Floor is my favorite but it has been on constant repeat since it came out last week.

Eating:

Last week I had a bad cold and since I haven't gotten my appetite to fully make a recovery. I did however whip up a version of this Greek Quinoa salad to have as an easy lunch of dinner option. 

Wearing:

The weather in Raleigh this week has been absolutely amazing and dare I say the word hot at times! The past 2 days I've worn a dress to work which has been such a nice change. I also have been wearing this peplum top nonstop and would highly recommend...

It's currently on sale for just $9.00!

Drinking:

From busy days at work to a lot going on in my personal life, my sleep has totally fallen to the way side, therefore coffee has been my drink of choice lately. I am majorly hooked on 4 shots of espresso over ice with a pump of caramel and a dash of milk... so yummy. 

Reading:

I've majorly stepped up my reading game over the past few weeks and have been loving it. I forgot how relaxing it is to settle into bed with a book and just zone out. Last week I finished Luckiest Girl Alive and while it wasn't my favorite, it was still a good read. I also just picked up a few books I had on hold at the library inculding...

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Summer Secrets by Jane Green

Barefoot by Elin Hinderbrand

and my current read that is so good so far- 

Pretty Baby by Mary Kubica

Needing:

I am majorly homesick for my family lately and can't wait for some time off next month and a trip down to Florida to spend time with them. Life has gotten so hectic lately that I am having a hard time staying focused and think some time away with my family is just what I need. A few beverages on the beach won't hurt either! For those curious, we are heading to Palm Beach and the Keys for a few days- recommendations welcome! 

Wanting: 

Naturally since I am going on a vacation, I want some new pretties including a new bathing suit, some comfy shorts and I wouldn't hate a few new dresses. Tomorrow's post will include a few things I have my eye on lately.

Thinking: 

Without going into too many details, my persona life is a bit of a mess right now. This quote is exactly what I needed this week and I am looking forward to getting back to myself and back on track. 

Hope everyone is having a good week!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Lately/ Life happenings + Confessions

Hello long lost blogging world. I can't believe it has been 18 days since my last post... not good on my part. Life has been so busy lately that I can't believe it is about to be April, summer will be here before we know it. In an attempt to get caught up, I am sharing a bit of what I have been up to as of lately + a few confessions....

Named as one of the best bars of the South, I treated T to a few drinks at The Crunkleton as part of his Valentines gift. He was able to try a few different bourbons he hadn't had before while I sipped on a yummy martini. While it's not an every weekend spot, it was definitely a fun experience and something we will do again. 

A shamless fitting room selfie. A few weeks ago I wondered into Forever 21 after seeing a few things on their website I loved. While I am still kicking myself for not getting these fun fringe heels, I did come home with the black shift dress. One can never have too many black dresses, at least in my book. 

Dress / Shoes

While I was at the mall I also came home with a few new goodies from Sephora. It has been a long time since I tried any new beauty products so I was eager to try out these fun masks. So far I have loved both and will continue to buy the individual pod sizes. Tip- these pods have more then enough for one application. I have saved mine in zip block bags and have been able to get at least 5 uses out of each. 

As part of my point rewards, I also was able to pick up this Bobbi Brown face moisturizer. I have never used a Bobbi Brown product but knew I would love it. So far it has made both a great moisturizer and primer.

I also picked up a new beauty blender that I have been using for my under eye concealer as well as my foundation. It has been an absolute game changer in my makeup routine and I love the way it blends everything in and makes it look much more natural. 

Another mirror selfie of a sweater/scarf/necklace combo that has been on repeat lately. 

Now for some confessions...

+ I have totally fallen off the work out wagon. I mean y'all I woke up at 5:30 this morning and literally played on my phone looking at instagram until I got out of bed at 6am. Emily a few week ago would have been up and out the door to the gym by 6 and home around 7:15 to get ready for work. 

+ My Starbucks addiction is real and also a huge problem. I've received a few gift cards lately and so far this week have already had Starbucks 3 times... this needs to stop.

+ I am going home this weekend for Easter and can't wait to be back in Annapolis. If the weather is good, I am hoping for a walk/run around the water and then am hoping mom will treat me to a little shopping. 

+ I got a pedicure the other day for the first time in way too long. My feet were literally embarrassing and I am so happy with the way they look now. Definitely something that needs to be in my monthly rotation. 

Hope everyone has a great Thursday! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Saturday Shopping

While unfortunately I am working this weekend, I am wishing I were out shopping for all things spring and fun. I am officially over the cold and ready for dresses, sandals, and even more ready for summer. Here's a few things I have my eye on...

ASTR Lace Trim Romper

I am on the hunt for a long sleeve black romper to have for the spring and summer. I think I would get a ton of use out of it but I am having the hardest time finding one I like. While I do like the one above, I still think I could find a better one. Suggestions? 

ASTR V-Neck Crepe Shift Dress

Same brand as the romper above but I absolutely love love love this shift. I have a friends engagement party in may and think this would be perfect, possibly paired with...

Forever 21 Ankle Strap Sandals

Y'all I saw these in the store last week and can't believe I didn't get them. They are perfect and a steal for less then $40! 

Suede Fringed Sandals

Also by Forever 21 are these amazing fringed heels. I have a few weddings/events over the spring and summer and these would be perfect paired with almost anything. 

J.Crew Factory Sleeveless Flouce Top

Perfect for work on paired with white skinnies in the summer, a statement necklace and some sandals. 

Pieces Round Sunglasses

These look so similiar to a pair of Karen Walkers I have been lusting over for quite some time but not ready hit go due to their price. These are a steal and so cute. 

Hope everyone is having a lovely Saturday!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend

Happy Friday loves! Today really feels like my Tuesday since I was off the beginning of this week and will be working over the weekend but Friday is here nonetheless. I have lots of updates to share next week including a few favorites as of lately and my Asheville recap. As for today, lets keep is brief and to the point with this weeks finds...

// I am pretty much a creature of habit and do best when on a routine. As of lately, I have not been on a routine and my body is starting to notice from not eating as healthy and not sleeping as well to not working out as much. Next week I am vowing to get back on track and plan on using this guide as inspiration. 

// Looking for your next read? I am hoping to try one if not all of these out [1] [2] [3]

// Home trends to look out for in 2016

// As if I could love Target anymore, this might need to be scouted for on my next run, love the bright green color for spring. 

// A good reminder. 

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend Recap

Happy Tuesday loves! I am back from a lovely weekend spent catching up with good friends and no shocker here but I am already for the weekend to be here again. This past weekend I headed back to my college town to celebrate my good friend and bride to be at her Monogram and Mimosa shower. Everything from the flowers to the food was absolutely amazing and I am thrilled to be apart of her special day in August. I didn't do a stellar job of documenting throughout the weekend but here's a few snapshots...

The bride to be and her honorary bridesmaids. 

All of us girls before dinner. We ate at a new Greenville spot, The Rickhouse. While we did have to wait a good while for our spot, everything from our drinks to our dinner was great. 

How adorable is this decoration for a baby's room? The host on Saturday had an amazing home and I made sure to get a picture of this to save as a gift idea. What a great idea for anyone that is expecting a little one and definitely something easy to make and affordable. 

Lastly, over the weekend my friend Sarah had this gorgeous necklace from Z.Zdesigns. While I haven't yet figured out where they sell them in Raleigh, I can assure you one will be mine soon. Be sure to check out their instagram account, so many cute pieces and I am a sucker for anything oyster related. 

Hope everyone has a great week!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann