#MotivationMonday (And Dealing with Stress)

This past weekend was a crazy one - performances on both Friday and Saturday nights, with a sleepover with my friends on Friday, vocal lesson Saturday, church Sunday, and tons of homework. 

I am so ready to ring in the new season, but in the same sense it is causing so much stress. I am in need of a new fall/winter wardrobe, and this semester in vocal is the busiest of all. I knew freshman year wouldn't be easy, but I wasn't expecting it to be this hard either. 

Once again, this week is going to need motivation - my agenda is full of things going on.

How I get through my week: 
1. Coffee or Tea
2. Friends and Family
3. Encouragement
4. Sleep.
5. Organization and Planning

I hope you have a wonderful week full of accomplishments - be pushed by your dreams, and lead by courageous and talented men and women. 

What is getting you through this week? 

Love, Sydney

ps. simple diy - In your agenda, write some of your favorite quotes or bible verses to motivate you every week. 

pps. Is there anything specific you'd like to see in the blog this week? Let me know! (Email is listed below or to the right in "About Me")

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Weekend Look Book

Here is a little peak at what I was up to this weekend - 

60's Costume for "Shake Your Groove Thing" 

with Jamie 

60's with Kellen and Mariah

Friends are the best support system - Cathie and Emily

(Thursday Night)

The makeup for our closing song, Thriller, was so much fun.

(Thursday Night)

Homemade Carmel Apple Spice Lattes with Emily and Cathie 

Today I am getting all my homework done, and getting the blog posts completed for this week.

Hopefully I can get some of my homework done in the beautiful fall air. 

What was your favorite part of your weekend? 

Love, Sydney 

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Book Review: Girls In White Dresses

Although this year is proving to be a lot of work, I am still dedicated to finding time to read.
I have found that reading allows me to calm down - at anytime of day I read: morning, afternoon, or night. I loose myself in the book and find myself not being able to put the book down.

I read on the bus, occasionally at school, and almost every night before turning the lights out.
And just anytime that I can.

Throughout the past few weeks (since August 24th, to be exact) I have been slowly, but surly, making my way through a series of different titles.

buy it here.

I love, love, loved this book. I had seen Girls in White Dresses featured on so many blogs, saying that it was an easy and enjoyable read. And I couldn't agree more. 

The story line is simple - It is a line of different stories about many girls that are all (somehow) connected (friendship, family, etc.) and all are in "white dresses." (Take a guess at what white dresses means, because I am not giving it away!)

It was such a great book to read and let myself enjoy before getting back into the swing of school.

Let me know if you've read this book (and what you thought!)

Have any book suggestions? Let me know!
I am trying to explore new genres!

Love, Sydney

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Health Tip: Snacking

High School lunch is late. And I'm not exaggerating. 

We don't eat until 12:55. 

It is treacherous. 

With this late lunch, I have made my self limit/stop snacking throughout the day. 

It's been a journey, but it helps me to feel better and happier - I enjoy three solid meals a day.  

1. Eat breakfast. 

It can be as simple as a bowl of cereal. 

Other ideas: Greek yogurt, smoothies, or fruit. 

There are great recipes for smoothies everywhere! All you need is a blender, fresh fruit/veggies, and some sort of base for the smoothie. I have enjoyed making a few smoothies here and there the past few weeks.

2. Eat a full lunch with protein. 

Cheese or yogurt! 

I always have Greek yogurt with granola with lunch, and have found that this keeps me full for the rest of the afternoon. 

Other options: nuts, 

3. Need a midday snack? 

Eat something to keep you full. I love to reach for a piece of fruit or a small cup of pretzels. 

4. Dinner time! 

Don't forget to treat yourself at lunch or dinner with a little sweet treat! 

Do you have tips for limiting snacking?

Love, Sydney 

ps. I have heard lots of good things about almond butter and milk - are they worth the try? 

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Wish List Wednesday: Nico and Lala

Happy Wednesday! 

Nico and  Lala is a cute online shops that specializes in stationary, iPhone and iPad cases, and little "catch all" trays and cups. 

Everything in their online shop has so many options. 

For example, the two cups (shown bottom right) have 12 different options for how you can customize them, from patterns to how your monogram is shown. 

Let my indecisiveness kick in. 

Zebra iPad Cover // I love the color scheme (and the zebras!) 

Mod Monogram Notecard Set & Swirl Monogram Notecard Set // Personalized Stationary? Yes Please! 

Flamingo Catch All // This would be perfect for on my desk or on top of my bookshelf. I am always in need of something to keep track of all the little things in my room that don't have a home. 

Pencil Cup Holder/Make Up Brush Holder // I currently use mason jars for my makeup brushes, mascara, and eye brightener, but this cute cup would be a perfect way to hold those items. 

What is on your wish list this week? 

Love, Sydney 

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ps. I am thinking about changing "Wish List Wednesday" to a bi-weekly post. Ideas?

Email me (email to the right) or comment below. 

Morning Routine: Makeup

Last week I shared my morning routine, and promised to share my makeup routine.

I try to keep my makeup routine short, and not too time consuming. 

Freshman year is my first year of wearing makeup daily. Throughout the past few years, I have worn makeup but did not wear it every day all the time. It was a random little act I did occasionally some mornings. 

Daily Moisturizer // Sadly, this does not happen every day, even though I know how helpful a daily moisturizer is for your skin. It will become more of a part of my routine throughout the winter when my skin becomes more dry. 

Eye Brightener and Concealer // Self explanatory. Concealer isn't daily, only when I see that it is needed. 

Foundation // This is the first year of me using foundation, and have nothing to complain about Bare Minerals foundation. (If you can't tell, I love bare Minerals!)

Mascara // Make those lashes look gorgeous!

Mineral Veil // To set everything in - it needs to last all day! 

What's your daily makeup routine? Any tips or tricks?

Love, Sydney

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ps. Is there anything you would like to see on the blog this season? Colaborations? Different Series? Let me know!. (email to the right)

Motivation Monday

This week is going to be one crazy week - 4 tests/quizzes in the next two days, followed by piles of homework. Oh, and a rehearsal on Wednesday followed by performances both Friday and Saturday night. I am in need of lost of motivation this week.

Freshman year is proving to be a struggle: there is lots of stuff going on, followed by countless tests, quizzes, and assignments, followed by personal issues. 

I am so ready for fall, and what this new season (climate wise and literally) of the year brings. I shared my Fall Favorites yesterday, and I am so ready to complete some of those fun activities. 

Yesterday I was able to "ring in the new season" by having a study date with my friend Grace, followed by blogging and painting my nails a fun shade of red. 

Sometimes you just need to get away from the trouble and get your mind off the things that are causing pain, to just live life and have fun with it. 

below are the two phrases that will strengthen and encourage me to get through this upcoming week - and I hope they will also empower you to get you through whatever you need to accomplish this week.

Bonne Chance to you this week as you go throughout your life - and be a blessing. 

Love, Sydney

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Autumn is On Its Way

I am so excited for Fall this year. 

Charleston doesn't really get what you'd call "fall weather" until October, and sometimes even November. BUT, this week we got a beautiful taste of fall - and it was perfect. 

As one of my friend's described it, "It is cool enough to where you can drink hot Starbucks drinks, but not too cold to have to wear winter coats." 

This sums up our wonderful week of weather up perfectly. 

I know, living in Charleston I am not too sure that we will have this weather for much longer, because for all I know it may get back up into the 90's in the next few weeks - but I am hoping and praying that it doesn't, because I am so ready for layering, buying Fall and Winter clothes, hot coffee, and the oh so wonderful adventures that can be completed in fall. 

I have found three wonderful lists that describe my favorite things about Fall. 

{Classy Girls Wear Pearls}

I love carving pumpkins, and then roasting the seeds. This past year I grew to love roasted Pumpkin seeds, and I cannot wait to roast more this year. 

Fuzzy Socks in Boots - best thing ever! (You have to keep your toes warm somehow, right?)

I love to cuddle up with loads of blankets and watch movies and TV Shows on Netflix. My idea of a night alone. 

Taking Pictures - Yes! Fall is my favorite time to get outside and take fun pictures with friends. 

Sadly, in Charleston we don't get too much of the leaves changing colors, but I love to look at pictures from other cities where the trees are perfect shades of yellow, orange, and red. 

My family and I never get around to having campfires, but the idea of them definitely screams Fall!

What are you most excited about for Fall?

Love, Sydney 

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ps. Who will be watching the Emmy Awards tonight?

I am rooting for Downton Abbey! 

Chicago Prepster :: Kiss My Southern Sass Giveaway!

I love hearing about giveaways on my favorite blogs, and this giveaway is no exception! 

I adore the Chicago Prepster's blog, and include it in one of my daily reads. 

But her giveaways are to die for! This "Kiss My Southern Sass" T-Shirt Giveaway is amazing! 

You have a chance to win this amazing t-shirt - get on over to the Chicago Prepster blog to enter! 

Love, Sydney

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ps. have a great weekend! 

Organization 101: Utilizing an Agenda

I adore my Lilly Pulitzer Agenda. It has made planning and organizing much more enjoyable - 

because I love reaching for my agenda and being inspired by the gorgeous designs (and awesome stickers!) 

I have utilized an agenda (truly) since 6th grade, and it has been a habit since then. 

My school supplies students with agendas, but they are not very adorable and stylish, and I felt as though their agendas were not fitting my needs. I need an agenda with a large monthly calendar, a weekly calendar, and enough room to write little notes, reminders, and events that I need to remember. Writing my homework, rehearsals, birthdays, and blog posts in my agenda in both the monthly and the weekly portions of my agenda helps tremendously. I can plan my week day by day.

These 5 reasons are the reason why I use my agenda. I love seeing things in front of me, planning and writing down events, (especially for Vocal!) using fun colors and pens to schedule, taking it everywhere, and seeing what I already have planned when looking to plan events. 

Do you use an agenda? What are your reasons for using it?

Love, Sydney 

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Wish List Wednesday: Ashley Brooke Designs

After seeing Ashley Brooke Designs featured in many giveaways on blogs (and from being retweeted by some of my favorite bloggers) I had to check her blog and shop out! 

And let me tell you: she has some brilliant items in her shop. 

Hustlin' T-shirt // This adorable t-shirt would be a perfect lazy day school day shirt or for a Saturday Day shopping trip... or even for working out. 

Too Legit To Quit Coffee Mug & Fancy Coffee Mug

I love coffee mugs, and these two mugs are no exception. 

Signed Sunnies Print // I have seen this print all over Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and Etsy and have fallen in love with it. 

Beach Day Folded Cards // Cute stationary for a random "Thinking of You" card. 

The Tailored Collection: Fancy Girl  // Custom stationary? I'm sold. Choose your outfit color scheme, if you want a pet featured, etc. 

What are your favorite blogs and self-owned shops? 

Let me know! 

Love, Sydney 

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Morning Routine

I've made it apparent that I love routines. Last week, I shared my night time routine, and here goes my morning routine.

I have an easier time staying true to my morning routine, since there is a specific time I need to be out the door. I have found it very helpful to have this morning routine because I won't ever be flustered; my night time routine gets me ready for a smooth morning.

Wake Up! I wake up at 5:45, and allow myself to hit the snooze button just once. 

Morning Cup of Joe or Tea: I start the morning off with a cup of hot tea or coffee. I like having the drink right away, and if I don't finish it I put it into a thermos to take to school. 

Check Social Media and Blogs: After making my lovely cup of coffee, I lay in bed or cuddle up into my favorite chair and check social media and blogs. I find it easier to do this right away in the morning, rather than in the afternoon, because when I get home from school I need to get started on my homework. 

Get Dressed: I try to visualize and plan my outfit the night before, just so that I don't run around the morning of. 

Breakfast!: The most important meal of the day, I love to have cereal or a smoothie. 

Brush Teeth/Apply Makeup: Self explanatory, but expect a post on makeup routine coming soon! 

My routine normally consists of foundation, concealer/eye brightener, mineral veil, and mascara.

Out of the Door! 

What is your morning routine? 

Love, Sydney 

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Motivation Monday: Staying Inspired

This school year is already proving to be a rough one.

There is so much going on already, and we haven't even passed the one month mark into school starting.

At times in my life, I find myself seeking inspiration and encouragement: from my friends, family, quotes, and bible verses, I look everywhere. 

On Pinterest, I found "12 Steps for Staying Inspired" 

(And I added a few of my own)

Staying Healthy

1. Drink Water: When you wake up in the morning, drink a glass of water with your breakfast, or while you scan social media. This helps with starting the day fresh! 

2. Move and  Sweat: Daily Exercise boosts your energy level, improves your mood, and relieves stress. 

I recently started working out on the family Elliptical, and you truly do feel healthier and happier after a good workout. 

3. Get Sleep: More sleep = more energy to do the thins that make you happy. 

It's as simple as that. 

Plan Your Day: 

4. Top 3 Tasks: Every morning, make a list of your 3 top priorities you need to accomplish that day. If it's as simple as studying or cleaning your room, or even getting out to exercise, plan what you need to get done. 

5. The 50/10 Rule: Work for 50 minutes, then take a 10 minute break. 

6. Reflect Daily: End the day with a self reflection/evaluation. 

Keep Learning 

7. Read: Reading increases your knowledge, keeping you inspired. You can always find time to read. (Levo League)

8. Browsing: Watching tutorials and conduction research increases your capabilities. 

I love to come home after school and watch clips from the today show. It keeps me in the know of what's going on around the world - and often times there are fun segments. 

9. Brainstorm: This can be a creative gold mine! 

Brainstorm about ways to get more organized, study more efficiently, or think about what you need to fix. 

Focus on What Makes You Happy

10. Express Gratitude: Think abut 10 things you are grateful for every morning - this promotes happiness. 

This can also help to boost self esteem! 

11. Clean Your Desk: Your desk is your work space, so a tidy desk is a must, and it allows you to focus on what you need to get done. 

I recently started doing all of my homework at my desk in my room - I find it helpful to have everything right in front of me, instead of all over my bedroom floor. 

12. Indulge in Your Favorite Things: Set time aside to relax and enjoy your favorite things, whatever they may be. 

What keeps you inspired and motivated? 

Love, Sydney

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Inspiration: College Prep

Throughout the course of our lives, many people ask us: Who is your inspiration? Someone you look up to? Someone who you aspire to? 

If you asked me today I would immediately tell you - 

Carly H., from College Prep. 

I have been reading her blog every morning the minute I wake up since June. 

When she doesn't post, it makes me sad. 

The topics she speaks of make me think, smile, and laugh out loud.

If I don't have something to do, I sit in my chair in my bedroom and scroll through her blog archive - and read every single post that catches my eye. (which is most of them!)

Her blog posts make me feel as though I have known Carly all of her life - like we are best friends we just never see each other (and have never met).

She creates a personal connection with each and every reader and it is priceless.

Her outfits are stunning, she has amazing tips, and her posts are just enjoyable to read. 

No matter what length, her daily posts are inspirational and fun.

I don't know how else to say it. 

She gives me the inspiration to write - she has shown me that even though you may have so much going on in your person life, you can still find time to blog - every, single day.

Blogging brings new opportunities: new friends, new surroundings, and just a new chapter to your life story. 

There is only one way for you to find out why I love College Prep so much. 

Go and read her stunning blog. 

I think that part of the reason I started this blog was because of College Prep.

What are some of your daily blog reads? 

Love, Sydney

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ps. How is your school year going? 

Is there anything school related you would like to see on the blog? Let me know (email to the left)

Wish List Wednesday: Tote Bags

I have been on a mad search for tote bags for fall. There is just something about fall approaching that makes me feel like I need something to get me excited for the season. Not that I'm not excited - I cannot wait for fall to officially start, which in South Carolina is mid to late November. 

But still - I cannot wait for Fall.

Everyday Leather Tote // I originally saw this on Pinterest and had to pin it. It is probably my least favorite tote out of this selection, but it seems like a fantastic tote for fall. 

Classic Tote in Black // I saw this bag yesterday on College Prep for her incredible Cinco Powell Giveaway - I had to enter after falling in love with the tote. 

The Dagne Dover T.1 // Again, other find on College Prep, Carly calls this bag "the perfect bag for both school and work. And after watching the video, I couldn't agree more. 

ASOS Mini Tote Bag with Tassel // Another great find on Pinterest, I am in love with how it is a tote but also a satchel. 

Factory Two-Tone Tote Bag // After being told by Classic With a Twist to look at J. Crew for tote bags. I love how it incorporates two colors that I constantly am wearing - navy and green. 

Longchamp Le Pliage Large // I have had my eye on the Longchamp tote for a long time. I still can't make myself commit to it yet! Maybe Christmas... 

ASOS Leather Scallop Edge Shopper // Another find from the amazing College Prep, I fell in love with this tote when she talked about it on her blog. 

Which one of these totes will be the greatest investment and last the longest? 

Let me know by commenting below or emailing me! (email to the left)

Love, Sydney

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OMG! I Wish I Had a ... Kit

After seeing this very clever idea from College Prep, I just knew I had to make one of my own. 

I have only had this kit for a matter of months, and in this short period it truly has been a life saver at times. 

Ever been out of the house and think, "OMG! I wish I had a {fill in the blank}?" I normally would tend to panic - but this kit has made those problems history.

It may seem like a lot of items, but if you stash them in a small cosmetic case, you will barely know that they are there - until you really need them. 

These are the items I tend to keep in my kit, but I would love to know what you would keep in yours! 

Contents of my kit: 

Lip Balm: Life saver anytime I have chapped lips. 

Lipstick/Lipgloss: I sometimes feel the need to have a little bit of color on my lips - I love Bare Minerals gloss and lipstick! 

Concealer: For those breakouts and to add some brightness to my face. 

Pearl Earrings: I don't know about you, but if I forget to put earrings in in the mornings, I feel bare. A spare pair of pearls or some type of studs fix this problem. 

Cough Drops: These came in handy just the other day when my throat was throbbing. I can't explain how much these come in handy during the cold season. 

Headphones: Always a need of mine, especially for bus rides or doing classwork in class. 

Compact Mirror: Take a quick peek at how you're looking.

Extra Change: Throw a few singles and some coins into the kit, in case you need a little extra cash. 

Lotion and Hand Sanitizer: My legs are in constant need of lotion, and the hand sanitizer is great for yucky situations and when you want your hands smelling nice and clean. 

Pen: In case you need to take quick notes in a meeting or class and you forget your pencil case!

Band aids: Need I say more? 

Hair ties: In the summer, my hair can get on my nerves, so always having a hair tie on hand is definitely needed.

Nail File: Nail breaks? Need to file? I've got you covered. 

Gum/Mints: For after meals or just to chew on, have some gum or a mint on hand. 

What would you keep in your kit?

Love, Sydney

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Night Time Routine

Organization and Schedules are two parts of my life that I need.

No organization? I'd go crazy. 

No schedule? I'd go nuts. 

Every night, (except for weekends!) I like to do the exact same routine.

#1: Get packed up and prepared for the next day: Each night, I put all of my school supplies that I need for the next day into my backpack, and I make sure I have everything I need in my purse. This helps me to have a less hectic morning - no more running around for things I need! 

#2: Shower! I cannot shower in the morning to save my life. I don't take showers longer than 10 or 15 minutes, but still - morning showers just aren't my thing. (Don't forget to get into your favorite pajamas!)

#3: Quick Pick Up in my Room: I try to do a quick clean up every night, so that I always have a clean room and so that it doesn't get so messy that I have to spend hours cleaning it on the weekends. 

#4: Put away electronics: Studies show that the LED light from electronics leads to having trouble falling asleep, so I have made it a goal of mine to put my electronics away 30 minutes before I get into bed. It really does help.

#5: Read: After putting away my electronics, I like to read every night before I go to sleep. It is a great way of letting my mind calm down and it helps me to get to sleep. I try to always have some type of book that's not on my iPad to read, so that I can put my electronics away and then read. 

Lights out! 

Having a night time routine (and a morning one - post coming soon!) can truly help you to be a more organized and put together person. 

What is your night-time routine? 

Love, Sydney

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In My Purse

I adore my purse. 

I carry around everything in my purse - everything. 

Throughout the school year, I throw my agenda, books, pens, and pencils into my purse. 

I am constantly looking at new purses and adding them to my wishlist.

There are a few things I make sure to always have in my purse before I walk out of the door.

iPad Mini // I cannot go anywhere without my iPad - with or without wifi, I can do something on it. I have the Kindle App, leading me to read, and when at school, if  I am in need of quick research, it becomes very useful. 

Small Notebook // Anytime I am out and about, I always think of something I need to write down, or see something and write down the name of the item to look at later. A small notebook and pen will always come in hand. 

Lipgloss or Lipstick // You never know when you may want a little bit of color on your lips! If I know I will be out of the house for the entire day, I may throw some makeup into my bag for touch ups if needed.

Phone 

Wallet 

OMG! I wish I had a ... kit // Post on this item coming soon, but this DIY kit inspired by the College Prepster has saved me many times!

What do you like to always carry around with you in your handbag?
Love, Sydney

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What Starbucks Drink are You?

This article from Levo League put a smile on my face yesterday - 

What Does Your Starbucks Drink Say about You?

Pumpkin Spice Latte? (#psl)

Skinny Vanilla Latte?
Regular Coffee?

Mocha?

Chai Tea?

Iced Coffe? 

Frappucino? 

So. many. options! 

Me? I'm the Regular Coffee. 

This isn't my go to drink at Starbucks (White Chocolate Mocha!), the personality characteristics of this drink definitely are. 

What Starbucks drink are you?

Love, Sydney

ps. what do you think of the new color scheme, logo, and Social Media icons?

Let me know - email in "About" (to the left)

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Wish List Wednesday

All Items Shown Above: Design Darling Boutique

Mackenzie Horan from Design Darling Boutique (and blog!) has
been the best self owned and run shop I have found
in a long time.

All of her items are gorgeous, and she has an amazing blog
(another inspiration!)

All of her items from her Boutique = on my Wish list.

Love, Sydney

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Inspiration: Blog Redesign

Going into a new season, I am redesigning the blog with a new style and goal. 

{Design Darling Boutique Shop}  {Design Darling, Mackenzie Horan, Blog}

The new color scheme will include colors such as Kelly Green, Coral,  Hot Pink, Navy Blue, Sea Foam Green and Mint Green.

I am leaning toward a combination of mainly two colors, with just a pinch of a third color.

Stay Tuned!

Love, Sydney 

ps. Changes may be made to the blog's URL, so stay tuned! 

pps. I am currently changing the color scheme. Are the current colors asthetically pleasing?
Let me know at sydhuss16@gmail.com

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