Friday Faves

I had a fairly uneventful week. K was traveling for work so I had my hands full with Lola bear who woke me up 2 hours early every morning. Needless to say, I'm relieved the weekend is here and that K is back home so we can catch up on some rest mixed with some fun out with friends. I did manage to celebrate National Drink Wine Day last night with some Sauvignon Blanc ($2.99 at Trader Joe's) and caught up on some TV shows while snuggling with the bear.

Favorite Scents:

All things Bath & Body Works. It was that time of year for another haul and these are the products that made the cut. Lots of liquid hand soap since we go through those quickly and I love the travel size hand sanitizers to keep in my purse, car, office desk, and pretty much everywhere I can store one.

Favorite Photo:

I snapped this photo last weekend when K and I went to College Park to explore before our Valentine's dinner. I'm amazed at how this simple unedited iPhone photo (only edit was iPhone brightener feature) captured such a beautiful day in Florida during "winter". 

Favorite Purchase:
These black and gold Kendra Scott Danielle earrings were my latest target. I received them from Rocksbox and instantly fell in love when I wore them this week so I opted to purchase them at a discounted rate. Also black and gold are my Alma mater colors so I figured they would be perfect for game day.

Recipe of the Week:

I've been experimenting with different type of salads for dinner. This week I made an Asian inspired salad with grilled chicken, edamame, sesame seeds, romaine and spicy peanut vinaigrette. Next on my list is this Avocado Caprese Chicken Salad with Balsamic vinaigrette.

Favorite Tech Style:

My new sparkly laptop skin from CaseApp is gorgeous and brings that girly touch to one of my favorite tech toys.

I've seen several people with all sorts of custom iPhone cases so when CaseApp reached out to me, I decided to go with a laptop skin because I like the protective iPhone case that I have now. The process of purchasing was seamless although it was a tough decision choosing which design I wanted to go with. Of course I went with sparkles!!

If you're interested in decorating your iPhone or laptop with a pretty skin you can use the code MARTINIS20 to get 20% off from CaseApp.com

Have a great weekend everyone!

Joining the lovely Amanda for her Friday Favorites linkup.

Friday's Best

Happy Friday!

I've been having some serious wanderlust since we traveled to so many amazing places in 2015 and it seems we've now come to a hiatus after the busy holidays. With K being in a new job, he doesn't feel comfortable taking too much time off of work so I've been figuring out how we can squeeze some long weekend trips in for the very few holiday weekends we get in the US and then one international trip to Jamaica for my cousin's wedding. #ThatTravelItchTho

In other news...

Super Bowl Sunday:
So with the Super Bowl being this weekend, I was looking for some healthy recipes and found this Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Wings recipe which looks amazing.

Things I Love:
This mug. I recently stumbled upon LookHuman.com and posted about the Mascara & Mimosas clothing line they have. Kate bought the sweatshirt and I bought the tank top which are perfect for our Sunday brunches. They even have some funny and sarcastic Valentine's gifts.

Best Smelling Award:
 Goes to Bath & Body Works' Wild Honeysuckle hand soap. I just recently did another haul from B&BW and I can't stop smelling my hands after using this soap. That probably sounds weird but it's true.

Favorite Reads:
Amanda's (Meet @ The Barre) photography guides found here, here & here offer great tips for professional/fashion photography. I did an online photography class late last year and learned all the technical details but honestly haven't had time to practice. These guides have convinced me to spend some time this weekend really figuring out what is what.

Lola Says:
"I love my Merrick's Cowboy Cookout treats gifted to me from Chewy.com."

I swear she loves treats more than life itself. As soon as I open the pantry where I store her treats, she coming running like a bowling ball.

Genius Award:

Goes to Publix for this Ice Cube Tray Sushi recipe. Sorry to feature two recipes in one post but I think the sushi lovers out there might just love the concept.

Have a fabulous weekend! 

Friday Favorites

This was the sunset I caught in my neighborhood last night arriving home from work. Absolutely breathtaking! I also posted a live video on SnapChat if you follow me (emilyalisonb).

This week was the coldest one for the year so far. While I don't mind a break from the heat, I seem to get shocked by everything I touch when it gets cold outside ~ every door handle, the gas pump, my car, and sometimes other people. Back in UCF days, I remember stepping into the campus shuttle and getting shocked by the railing to walk up the stairs and yelling "F*#%" in front of a bus full of people. It wasn't pretty! So I guess that's my pet peeve when it comes to cold weather but on a brighter note, how about some faves for the week?

ONE

K left on Sunday morning for work and returns today so lots of "me time" was had this week...or shall I say "Lola and me time" because she requires all the attention. Either way it was nice to rule the remote and get caught up on my shows.

TWO

These Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are on my radar to make at home. I've ordered lettuce wraps before at restaurants but it's about time I try my hand at making them for a healthy weeknight dinner.

THREE

I stumbled on the Look Human online shop this week via Pinterest and love all of their cute tops and sweaters with fun sayings/designs such as this Mascara & Mimosas pullover sweater.

FOUR

National Popcorn Day was celebrated at the office on Tuesday. I'm just thankful it wasn't national chocolate or cheesecake day because diet out the window.

FIVE

I loved reading this article about Meditation for Beginners and really want to incorporate some meditating into my routine to clear my mind and relax since work and life can be stressful. Kerri also talks about her Meditation Journey here which is a good read.

Enjoy the weekend!

Linking up with my fellow Florida girl Amanda for her Friday Faves linkup.

Friday Faves

This was the first cold weekend in Florida and it was nice to bring out the boots and scarves however I don't have many warm pants other than jeans. Recommendations? I'm looking forward to another fairly quiet weekend with lots of R&R which sounds like perfection. I'm finally back on track with the work/blogging/personal life balance after the crazy holidays which is definitely good for the soul. So how about some faves for this week...

Favorite Article:
Ashley from The Grits Blog talks about her Blogging Pet Peeves and I couldn't agree with her more, especially #1.

Favorite Purchase:
This dainty silver leaf bangle bracelet from Express goes so well with my watch and has gotten lots of compliments.

Favorite Recipe:

This Healthy Kung Pao Chicken with brown rice recipe looks so good. I'm a big fan of stir-fry recipes and love trying different combinations of meat and veggies.

Favorite Holiday Gifts:

I didn't post much around the Christmas long weekend but two of my favorite gifts were both from K and I'm in love!

#1: Marc Jacobs 'Decadence' Perfume
Smells amazing! Definitely my favorite new perfume on the shelves.

#2: Revlon One Step Hair Dryer and Styler 
This is seriously a life-changer for me. My hair is very thick so it takes a long time to wash and dry which has always been a dreaded "chore" of mine. This brush/hair dryer combo has cut that time down significantly and I absolutely love hoow it styles my hair. I give it a 9 out of 10 because it could have more heat settings but otherwise it works wonders.

Favorite Funny:

Me everyday.

Have a great weekend lovelies!

Joining Amanda for Friday Faves.

Five on Friday

Not only is it Friday but it's the last full work week for the year so that's pretty exciting! I'm also relieved my husband is finally returning home tonight after being gone for two weeks for his new job. It's been slightly stressful holding down the fort 100% solo. Other than that, I have some fun things to share from this week.

ONE:

Monday can actually be classified as a fave (for the first time ever) because I took the morning off to relax after all the birthday and holiday party celebrations over the weekend (here and here). I got into work after lunch to find the sweetest birthday card and Kohl's gift card from my team. 

My company also gifted every employee with a new Apple TVs for the holidays. Who knew a Monday could be that good? Just need to figure out how to work the thing.

TWO:

My birthday on Sunday was such a treat with the girls and I love all the goodies I raked in including a Rocksbox membership, Alex & Ani bangles, a 'happy birthday' stemless wine glass and this amazing Marc Jacobs Decadence perfume that K gave me.

THREE:

Some pretty holiday/NYE party dresses I stumbled about while browsing LuLu's website.

one  /  two  /  three

FOUR:
I've been enjoying my Christmas tree at night all lit up along with all the small decorations throughout the house and our outdoor lights. I'm excited for Christmas next week to say the least.

FIVE:
I'm thankful and loving all the Christmas cards I've received from blogger friends near and far. Thank you ladies! xoxo

Bonus Fave:

If you love testing and reviewing free products, I recommend signing up for Influenster. They send out free boxes of goodies depending on your interests and profile and I've gotten some great things to test such as makeup, cosmetics, protein bars and other nutrition products.

Joining Amanda for her Friday Favorites linkup. 

Friday Favorites + $325 Nordstrom Giveaway

Can you believe Thanksgiving is already next week? My favorite time of year is about to kick off which means many busy weekends ahead until the end of the year. We have our first Holiday party to attend on Saturday night but otherwise it should be a fairly low key weekend.

ONE:
This week we had our annual potluck at work and there was over 20 dishes plus the dessert table was out of control. It was hard deciding what to chose! I made a delish broccoli salad (recipe coming soon) to add to the spread. I posted some potluck dish ideas yesterday if you didn't catch it.

TWO:
I was putting my wish list together for the Holidays and my birthday in December and stumbled upon this 2016 Blog Planner from Amazon. I know they have free printable ones but it would be ideal to have everything recorded in one book and you can always go back and see what you've done in previous weeks.

THREE:
On Wednesday I went out for a happy hour girl date at our favorite sushi spot downtown to celebrate JQs birthday. It was fun catching up and getting our sushi fix.

FOUR:

We received these Wellness Petite Treats from Chewy.com and they are probably my favorite treats to date. Turkey, pomegranate and ginger are a unique blend plus they're healthy and grain free which is important when choosing treats for Lola.

FIVE:

For the next week, I'm teaming up with Pamela from Sequins & Sea Breezes and 20 other fab bloggers to give away a $325 Nordstrom Gift Card right in time for the holidays! The more ways you enter, the more chances to win! The giveaway end on Friday, November 27th at midnight and the winner will be announced on Monday, November 30th. Good luck!

Hosted By:

Sequins & Sea Breezes

The Gorgeous Co-hosts:

Cheshire Kat Blog | B Loved Boston | Champagne & Suitcases | Going The Distance | Love & Bellinis

Green Fashionista | Kids & Cabernet | Pink & Fabulous | From Here To Eternity | Martinis & Bikinis

Pink Persistence | Miss in the Midwest | A Memory of Us | The Sequin Notebook | Birdie to Be

MakeupHER | Christina Lea Loves | The Wandering Weekenders | Medicine & Manicures | Meet @ The Barre

$325 Nordstrom Gift Card Giveaway

Joining my fellow Floridian blogger Amanda from Meet at the Barre for some Friday Faves.

Lucky Friday 13th

Despite my spooky picture, I actually love Friday 13th because I was born on the 13th and have had many birthdays fall on a Friday which means reverse bad luck for me! Well at least that's always been my twist on things.

Other than closing a pretty big deal at work and ordering our Holiday photo cards (Thanks Kerry for the recommendation), this week was pretty uneventful so I'm going to get right into some randoms.

ONE:
K was traveling for work at the beginning of the week so I had my hands full with Lola who requires all your attention. Forget about using a computer or phone in her presence.



K bought me a cute gift from IHeartDogs.com which seems to suggest otherwise. Of course I love my Lola but I am a blogger and need contact with technology in the evenings since early mornings aren't my thing. The drinking wine part is true though.

TWO:
With Thanksgiving coming up, I'm always scrambling to find new dishes for the potluck at work, our family Thanksgiving dinner and sometimes even "Friendsgiving" get-togethers. One of my favorite side dishes around the holidays is broccoli casserole although I've never attempted to make it myself.  This Broccoli & Cauliflower Casserole recipe looks a great side dish for the holidays.

THREE:
I had to buy this song on iTunes and have listened to is a gazillion times cause I just love her voice.

FOUR:
I finally found the secret to amazing smelling laundry ~ Snuggles Scent Boosters.

I've always used good quality detergent (usually Tide or Gain) along with laundry softener and I also clean my washing machine often yet my laundry would still come out smelling just okay...clean of course but just not fresh smelling after all the expensive products I'm using. Not anymore though. My laundry smells amazing after using these scent pacs, especially for sheets and bath towels.

FIVE:
I haven't shopped online in a long time (other than for the Holiday photo cards if that even counts) but I can picture this being me around the holidays. I haven't even started shopping for Christmas gifts.

Happy weekend everyone!

Five on Friday

 I'm looking forward to having no big plans this weekend and going where the wind takes me, preferably to the couch and my bed...although we'll be out and about on Sunday for a local festival. I'm volunteering at the Hunger Project for Feeding Children Everywhere today with some coworkers so the day should go by quickly.

ONE:
Last night I attended a charity event held by our local Victim Service Center (for victims of sexual assault). My company has sponsored the organization for the past few years so the event was held in appreciation of sponsors and community partners. We mingled at a new restaurant downtown and enjoyed some appetizers and wine.

TWO:

Lola cracked her rear molar last week from chewing on something unknown to us and had to get the tooth extracted which meant unforeseen vets bills right before our trip so now I'm seriously considering pet insurance. Does anyone have advice or experience with insurance for dogs and if it's worth it? I've heard mixed reviews. Otherwise she's one the mend and feeling good with her pain meds.

About time for a new doggie bed? She fits like a pig in a blanket. lol

THREE:
Kate Spade's Champagne at midnight watch makes me super excited my birthday is coming up. My wishlist-making has been begun, and while I'm at it, the Champagne bottle iphone case will be added too. 

FOUR:

I didn't mention it in my weekend recap of our trip to Barbados but two adorable cats adopted us while on vacation. I say adopted us, because they would just wonder into our apartment and make themselves comfortable every morning while we had coffee and breakfast. They were very sweet cats and never traveled without each other. I also tried to feed them a slice of bread (limited options okay?!) but I guess cats don't like bread, well at least these two smelled it and walked away.

FIVE:

Martinis & Bikinis' 3rd anniversary is this weekend and I can't believe I've reached this milestone. It's been a fun time slowly growing my space and meeting some amazing ladies while I'm at it. I usually try to throw a giveaway for my blogiversay but time got away from me this year with all the traveling.

 

Luckily I'm already co-hosting an awesome giveaway for Tif's birthday and we're giving away some gorgeous Kendra Scott statement earrings plus a $105 Sephora gift card so don't forget to enter!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Enjoy the weekend!

Joining Amanda for her Friday Favorites linkup.