Friday, December 1, 2017

Weekend




Happy Friday friends! I am so happy to see Friday finally here and am happy to report I am only working a half day before heading back home for a wedding this weekend. This week was a quick one but a majorly productive one. I worked out early almost every morning, tried 3 new recipes, and finally got my hair cut. This weekend I am looking forward to seeing some good friends from high school and also taking an overnight trip into New York City to see the city decked out for the holidays. Here's this weeks finds and things share worthy...

/ Maybe I've been living under a rock but I just discovered a new blog and it's quickly become a favorite. I love Grace's natural approach to her lifestyle brand and the realness that comes across in her reviews and recommendations and lets be real, the title of her blog is pretty amazing. 

/ I've been on the hunt for a lace cami to go under sweaters or cropped jackets and I think I may have found a winner

/ This recipe is on tap for next week and I am so excited. Looks so yummy and easy to throw together for a quick week night meal. 

/ I've been trying to be a lot better about my morning routine; waking up early enough to not feel rushed, doing what I can the night before, and trying to make it as peaceful as possible so that I'm not starting the day rushed and already stressed. Here are some tips on how to improve your morning routine and where you can save time. 

/ I have been majorly slacking when it comes to reading lately and am hoping if I mention that I am going to be better about it on the blog that maybe I will actually stick with it. I am currently reading this book and so far so good! Anyone have any other recs?

Hope everyone has a great weekend! 

Yours truly, 
Emily xo


Monday, November 27, 2017

Back Again



Happy Monday friends! Sorry for my break the past couple of weeks! If you follow me on Instagram (@eloquently_emily) I popped on to explain my absence and just do a bit of catch up. Basically I've been traveling so much over the past few weeks and on top of that have been sick and working a ton! Things have settled down a bit and I am finally feeling better and ready to jump back into posting and getting back to feeling like me. 

Being that it's Cyber Monday and there have been some serious sales over the past week, I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorites on sale and things I have been shopping for. I was blown away last week when almost all the Black friday sales started on Wednesday and continued into the weekend! Seriously a great time to stock up on some of your favorites or if your like me, get all your Christmas shopping done with the few clicks of your mouse. 

Here's a bit of what I have been shopping...

Nordstrom

These are a steal for just $127 and something that would be super cute with leggings, an over-sized sweater or with a fun skirt and tights. 


A basic blouse that can be tucked in with jeans or worn long with leggings. 


This sweater has amazing reviews and could easily be thrown on as pictured above to run errands or paired over the above tunic for a more dressier look. It does run large so I would suggest sizing down one size. 


Anthropologie 
Everything at Anthro is currently 20% off and free shipping for orders over $100.

These are normally close to $100 and you can get them for just $78 now. Unfortunately Anthro doesn't have the petite version I would need but if your taller these are amazing and have great reviews. 


I love the cranberry color of the tee and love that it's longer and could be worn with leggings or jeans. 


Also a great time to stock up on your favorite candles or give them as gifts. This scent has been a long favorite of mine. 


J. Crew Factory / J. Crew
Both J.Crew and J.Crew Factory are having amazing sales right now with up to 50% off everything. 

I am obsessed with the belt detail of this top and think it would be perfect now with navy pixie pants or when it warms up with white jeans. 


I love this color combo and it's currently less that $25. 


Perfect gift for friends or family and they have amazing reviews. 


I think that about does it for my favorites but there are so many other amazing deals, be sure to check out some of your favorite sites to see what they are offering! Hope everyone has a great start to the week & happy shopping!

Yours truly, 
Emily 



Monday, November 6, 2017

Weekend Recap




Happy Monday friends! It feels like forever since I have checked in and actually posted so I figured I would take advantage of my sick day and get a blog post up. I can't believe it's already November and can't get over how crazy the past few weeks have been! From weddings, to weekends away, and getting to get some time at home with my family I feel like I have been nonstop! This past weekend was particularly special because one of my best friends got married, a couple I have known for 10 years now! Here's how the weekend looked...

Friday I was able to get out of work a bit early and headed to get a spray tam because lawd it's been awhile since this skin has seen any sun. If you are in the Raleigh area, I tried out Jill's Beach for the first time and was really pleased with not only the tan but the service and how helpful they were.
After my tan I headed to get a fresh gel manicure and went with OPI Big Apple Red. 


Next was home to shower and get ready for some of our friends that were coming in town and staying with us. It was so nice to have some of my friends back in town that I hadn't seen in months and even more fun to spend time getting ready with each other like we did in college. 

For dinner we made reservations at Humble Pie and it could not have been been more amazing. We each shared about 3 rounds of different small plates and appetizers, as well as 2 bottles of wine and had the best time catching up and enjoying the yummy good. It's not the best photo but we were fortunate enough to snag a spot outside under the lights and thankfully the weather cooperated and it stayed nice and warm. 

Next we headed just up the road to Whiskey Kitchen to have one more glass of wine before calling it a night. 
Whiskey Kitchen is another favorite of mine, I love the decor and ambiance and they make a mean cocktail. 

Saturday we slept in a bit and then headed downtown to meet some friends for brunch at Raleigh Times. Another Raleigh favorite that you can't really go wrong with. The wedding was at the Knitting Mill right at the edge of downtown and everything was absolutely beautiful from the bride to the decorations. 




I wish I had details for my outfit but unfortunately the dress is super old as are the shoes. 

Sunday was spent in recovery mode and seeing of all our friends that come in town before finishing the night with watching football and partaking in some good ol cheeseburgers for dinner. 

Unfortunately today I did feel a bit under the weather and decided to take the day to rest but I am hoping to get a few more posts up this week!

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann






Friday, September 22, 2017

Weekend Links




Happy Friday friends! Sorry today's post is a little late, I had planned on waking up early and polishing it off but would you believe I actually slept in until 9! Yikes! I am officially back home in Maryland for the weekend and can't wait to spend the weekend with my family relaxing. Here's this week's round up of links...

+ Tuesday I am finally heading to get my hair cut and colored and boy is it overdue. I am gong to get my ombre colored over and hoping to go for a deep warm brown similar to this one

+ Now that it's officially the first day of Fall it seems appropriate to break out everything pumpkin related. I can't wait to head to my Trader Joe's to stock up on some of my favorites but definitely am going to be looking for a few things on this list

+ Has anyone ever ordered anything from Shein? Megan recently did a try on session with some things that she ordered, some that worked and some that didn't. I've always been super hesitant to order anything just not knowing sizes or quality. I loved this knotted top and for just $10! 

+ A must try recipe from Skinnytaste, especially for this time of year. 


Happy weekend y'all!
Emily Ann

Thursday, September 21, 2017

Thoughts for Thursday



This week is dragging like no other and I am ready for it to be over.  Let's dive right in on this weeks  thoughts...

+ I am off tomorrow and heading home to my family this afternoon and literally can't wait to spend time with them and relax. My grandmother who lives next door to my family just got a new golden retriever puppy named Tilly and I can't wait to spoil her with lots of love. 

+ It is hot as all get out here in North Carolina and this girl is over it and ready for cooler temps. I've got my sweaters, booties, and scarves all ready. 

+ Last week I made my first recipe in my crockpot and man did I forget how great they are. Having dinner ready when you walk in the door from a long day is heaven. I am going to be trying a chicken chili next week, I will share recipe tomorrow!

+ The past 2 weeks I have been fighting a major cold and I am finally feeling better this week and was able to make it to the gym and spin. It was my first spin class in quite some time and man did it kick my butt. 

+ Y'all my hair is as long as it's ever been and thank the lord I am getting a hair cut on Tuesday. Serious horse main going on over here. 

+ Next week I am heading to Asheville with a girlfriend for a few days and I am really looking forward to some time away. I am hoping to get in a few hikes, have some yummy food and check out the Grove Park Inn spa. Any other recs?

+ Every week I say I am going to bite the bullet and try the Vital Protein Collagen Peptide powder. The only question I have is should I drink it in my coffee or just mix it with water and drink it that way?

+ And because I needed this reminder

I think that about does it for today! Hope everyone is having a good week so far, xo!
Emily Ann

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

Let's Talk Furniture



I've been very fortunate to not have to buy new furniture really at all since living on my own. I've inherited a lot of pieces from my family including my bed, dresser, and bedside table all of which I've had for 4+ years. I know eventually there will come a time when I will have bite the bullet and get some furniture of my own and truth be told I am a little intimidated. 

Recently I was contacted by Furniture.com to review some of their furniture and collections and I have to say I was majorly impressed. Check out a few of my favorites below.

This couch is from the Sofia Vergara collection and I love the nail head detailing. 

While looking through some of the other collections I also really liked a lot of the pieces from the Chesapeake collection 


Aside from living room collections, Furniture.com also has a really good selection of bedroom furniture. 

I love the look of this rod iron iron like bed frame. 


A tad more luxurious is this beautiful raised gray bed with nail head details. 



And because what good is getting new furniture if you can't get all the fun finishing touches and accents...

Who doesn't love a good accent pillow?





If you are in the market for new furniture or even just a few accent pieces, I highly suggest perusing through Furniture.com

Hope everyone is having a great Tuesday!

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann











Monday, September 18, 2017

Monday, Monday, Monday




Monday we meet again. I don't have too much to complain about this morning seeing as how I had a very low weekend and also only have a 4 day work week. This past weekend I wish I could report lots of exciting activities but I honestly just took it easy, ran errands, spent time outside, watched movies, and cooked at home most the weekend. Sometimes you just need a weekend like that, am I right? This weekend I am heading home to Maryland to celebrate my friend at her bridal shower and I am so excited to spend some time with my family. As for this week, I have a few spin classes scheduled, a new book I am reading and hoping the week flies by. Here's a little inspiration for your Monday...

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann

Thursday, September 14, 2017

Fall Bucket List

Fall Bucket List


Now that we are half way through September and just a week away from the first day of Fall, it finally feels appropriate to break into all things fall related. I have yet to have anything pumpkin related or even break out any fall candles. Today I thought it would be fun to share a bucket list of activities I am hoping to do this fall...

1. Last year I kept waiting on our landlord to powerwash our house before decorating for fall and wouldn't you know he didn't get around to it until right before Christmas. This year I plan pick up a few mums and pumpkins for the front steps and hoping to maybe even make a fall wreath.

2. A few years ago I hosted a pumpkin carving party with a few girlfriends and I am thinking I need to bring it back this year. Everyone bought their own pumpkin, there was lots of wine and we even watched Hocus Pocus.

3. Another thing I didn't get around to doing last year was baking an apple pie. I've made several in the past and once you get the hang of it its not as intimidating as one might think.

4. There is nothing like being in the mountains when the leaves have just started to change and there's a crisp in the air. I am hopefully going to Asheville the end of this month and can't wait to get in a hike and drive along the Blue Ridge.

5. Today is the first day I am using my crock pot for the start of fall recipes and I am so excited. I love being able to smell dinner as I am walking in the door, not to mention it simplifies dinner planning so much. Tonight I am making White bean Turkey Chili.

6. Last year we threw Friendsgiving for the first time and had so much fun. We provided the turkey and everyone brought a side, dessert, or a bottle of wine and it turned out perfect.

7. Because what else screams fall but going to pick apples, drink apple cider, and if your lucky get apple donuts.

8. This is our first fall living in our new house and we have yet to make use of the fire pit in our backyard. I'm thinking a fire pit party is a must with pumpkin beer, chili, and s'mores.

9. Lucky for me I've already been to one ECU game so far this season but hopefully I will be able to get in a few more before the end of the season.

10. This one is a bit random but I think I am finally read to go back to being a solid brunette. Over the summer I added a lot of blonde to my hair and while I loved that I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone, I am ready for my brown locks back.

What are some of your plans for the fall?

Yours truly,
Emily Ann

Friday, September 8, 2017

Weekend




Happy Friday y'all! Anyone else think for a short work week that this week just dragged on? Unfortunately I am working this weekend but honestly looking forward to having a low key weekend and plan to spend my evenings just relaxing and doing a bit of Netflixing. My heart and prayers go out to everyone being affect by Hurricane Irma, I can't imagine the devastation that has already taken place and what's to come when it hits Florida and the coast. We won't be seeing any bad weather in Raleigh until Monday or Tuesday but hopefully it will just be rain. I hope everyone stays safe and has a lovely weekend, here's this weeks roundup of links and finds...

+ Another house tour that has me ready to move in. 

+ Chili season is officially upon us and I can't wait. There is nothing better then coming home from a long day and being able to smell dinner as your walking in the house. This recipe is a different take on chili but looks so yummy and from one of my favorite sites. 

+ Majorly loving this poncho for fall, and it's under $15. 

+ I can't believe I am about to admit this but how have I still not been to Charleston? This article is making me want to plan and book my trip ASAP.

+ I needed this quote today. 

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Lately



Happy Thursday friends. How is everyone's week so far? Mine has been a mix of lagging and then crazy with just keeping up with getting back from vacation. The temps here have been on the cooler side and it has me majorly looking forward to fall. However being in North Carolina, I am fully aware we probably have a few more heat waves coming our way before the crisp temps are here to stay. Today's post includes a bit of what has been going on in my world...

Watching: 



I finished Ozark last week and man was I sad to see it end. It was a show that definitely kept me on my toes and that I felt like I actually had to pay attention to. The ending was crazy and I am really looking forward to Season 2. I love Jason Bateman and thought he did a great job and it was definitely a change from his normal comedy vibe. After Ozark I wanted something a bit lighter and something I could just mindlessly watch before bed, enter Cedar Cove. It's a Hallmark show and stars Andie McDowell and so far it has been surprisingly really good. 

Eating: 


I bought a cast iron grill pan over the weekend and finally got around to using it last night and couldn't be more happy with it. I had never used a cast iron pan before and while I think I need a bit more practice I have already been looking up more recipes to make. My one hiccup was not using enough oil and some of the pork chops I was making ended up sticking to the pan a little bit. Next week I plan to try some pesto chicken and maybe even a steak. For those interested, I ordered this one from Amazon. 


I also posted on my Instagram story last night about a new Trader Joes product I tried and loved- Turkey Jerky. Holy moly... this is so good and makes for an easy snack during the day or even on my way home from work while I am stuck in traffic. 

Wearing: 


I am loving all of my new sale pieces I got over Labor Day weekend and have gotten so many compliments this week. I think my favorite buy has been this top, it was so comfy and the cuffed sleeves look so polished. 

My new trench coat also came and I can't wait for the weather to get a bit cooler to break it out. It is still on major sale and a great buy for fall! 

Reading: 


While on vacation I polished off 3 books and loved them all but here's the crazy part and I apologize y'all but I can't remember the titles! Blame it on lack of caffeine or just flying through them but I even checked my library account and they don't keep record of books you've checked our after you return them... not helpful. Currently I am reading Who Do You Love by Jennifer Weiner and it's pretty good but definitely not my favorite. 


Looking forward to:
Tonight I am getting together with a friend for a slumber party and I can't wait to enjoy a glass of wine, spend time catching up, and watch a chick flick. 

Speaking of a chick flick, has anyone been watching Bachelor in Paradise? I got caught up last night and while I do think there are a lot of really great couples, I couldn't get over the Dean/Christina/ D Lo situation. He is an absolute idiot and I literally found myself really feeling for Christina and relating to what she was going through.

Wanting: 
Anyone have any good bridal shower gift ideas? I'm a little bit of a procrastinator and everything on the registry has been claimed. I was hoping to find something cute I could personalize on etsy but haven't found anything I love just yet. Any recommendations?

Hope everyone has been having a good week, only one more day until Friday!

Yours truly,
Emily Ann

Friday, September 1, 2017

Weekend Links




Happy Friday y'all! Hope everyone had a good week and is ready for a long relaxing holiday weekend. I have been off since last Friday and it has been amazing and such a needed break. Today I am heading to the river for the weekend for a little more R&R before it's back to work next week. The weather is supposed to be a little iffy but I loaded up on some new books and plan to just enjoy the last of my vacation. Here are some links and finds of the week...

+ I've become a huge fan of letting my hair dry, it's so much easier as well as less time consuming and gives me a chance to get out of the door a lot sooner. Here are some tips for ways to style your hair without really styling it. 

+ How yummy does this recipe look? I think I will be making this this weekend for a fresh and easy side. 

+ Obsessed with these pants and love how they are styled in the picture. These could easily be worn now with a cute tank and even later with a blazer and some pumps. 

+ This house is an absolute dream, absolutely stunning. 

+ I needed this reminder today, it is 100% true. 

Off to finish packing, stock up on wine and snacks, and then it's to the river!

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann

Thursday, August 31, 2017

Thoughts for Thusday: Shopping Haul



Happy almost Friday y'all! 

If you follow me on instagram you probably saw on my story that I went on a bit of a shopping spree while on vacation. What else is there to do at the beach when it rain but hit up the outlets, am I right? I totally made out with a ton of great stuff and thought I would share a bit of what I snagged...

+ J.Crew Factory is currently have a great sale- 50% off everything. I was able to score so many great pieces, I can't wait to wear them back at work next week. 

I got this camel color as well as the burgundy and think it will be perfect for fall temps as well as layering over a t-shirt, blouse, or button down. 



I am super excited about these pants and got them in the navy color as well. They are stretchy but are also structured enough that you can wear them all day and not have them baggy and wrinkly. Best part- they make them in a petite option. 


This was another one I couldn't decide between this color or they also offer it in red so just ended up getting them both. 


Probably my favorite buy from shopping is these suede blue/grey flats. I wear flats pretty much every day to work and I've gotten in the worst habit of alternating between 2 different pairs. These will be a great addition and I also snagged them in black as well. 


I've never been one for printed or decorated t-shirts but for some reason I loved this one. I figured I could throw it on with some black skinny pants and a cardigan for work or throw on with jeans for running weekend errands. 


These I ordered online and am hoping they turn out as cute as they look. I only have 1 pair of skinny jeans and they have rips in the knees so wanted a pair that was a bit more polished looking. 

I mean at this point why not throw pair of earings in the mix. I am forever losing my earings so wanted to get a small pair that was on major sale that I wouldn't mind too much if I lose or they fall out. 

+ Next I hopped over to Gap Factory and scored this sweater for just $16. 

At first I wasn't sure if this sweater was a little too much which it definitely might be but I thought it would be cute to throw over a black dress for work. Thoughts?


Um how cute is this classic trench and I got it for less then $40! This will be perfect in a couple weeks when the weather starts getting a bit cooler and I can't wait. 


+ Banana Republic Factory was also offering 50% off everything so I scooped up this cute geometric flutter sleeve top. 



+ Last but not least, Anthropologie is also offering 30% off sale items and I finally pulled the trigger on a top I've been eyeing for quite some time. 


Whew, what a shopping trip. I have really been needing some new work clothes for awhile now so I'm glad I was able to get so many things on sale and spent half the price I normally would. All the sales will continue through the weekend so make sure you check them out! 

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann

Monday, August 28, 2017

Monday Musings... Dream House Edition



Mondays are a lot better when your at the beach and enjoying the beautiful weather sleeping in, whipping up yummy meals and happy hours start a little earlier than normal. Ok ok ok sorry to rub it in but y'all catch my drift... so far vacation has been amazing and so needed. Today I thought it would be fun to take a little house tour of my ideal house. From entry ways to bedrooms and everything in between. I love seeing the different interiors people are drawn to so feel free to comment what you like or leave links! 

First lets talk exterior...




I've always been a huge fan of white brick and tend to gravitate towards smaller cottage like homes. I love both of these, the front porch on the first and the red door of the second. I've always imagined having large hydrangea bushes out front long the porch and and porch swing  or rocking chairs are 100% necessary.

I think the entry way says a lot about a house and almost sets the tone for the rest of the rooms. Below are a few of my favorites...



The second is definitely my favorite with the fiddle leaf fig, ginger jars and distressed dresser. However I also love the relaxed feel of the first option with the bench and multi colored pillows. 

Next lets talk one of the most important rooms of the house; the kitchen...




I love the idea of a large open kitchen, with lots of windows that allow for natural light. All of the above pictures have a similar theme with lots of white, herringbone back splash, gold fixtures, and white or marble counter tops. 

Following the kitchen comes the next most important room... the living room. 




Ideally I would love to have at least one wall of built ins. I think it's such a classic look and although the idea of decorating the shelves gives me a bit of anxiety I still love the look of them. Like the kitchen, I want a very open style living room with lots of windows with a mixture of neutrals and possibly dark accents here and there (like the second picture.) A pair of french doors that go to the backyard would also be ideal. 

Being that I see myself living in a smaller style home, I realize there may not be a ton of space for a dining room. However I am fairly obsessed with this one...


I love everything from the wall lined bench, unfinished style table and woven chairs. 

Next up, lets chat bathrooms. 




I would love to have a black and white themed bathroom, from the floor tiles to the cabinets and especially love the look of the above door. I've never been a huge bath person so would be totally find with walk in shower and overhanging shower head. 

Last but not least, the bedroom!




Anyone else love the idea of a dark accent wall for a bedroom? This girl definitely does. Other then the accent wall I'm fairly open to different decors and could see myself either doing a mixture of blacks and whites or various textures and patterns. 

That about wraps it up for my ideal house tour!

What are different looks and styles you like?

Yours truly, 
Emily Ann