Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Tea Talk Tuesday : Meredith from Monogram Meredith

   
Meredith from Monogram Meredith is honestly one of the sweetest girls "I know". (That's in quotations because I've sadly never gotten to meet Meredith in person!) Meredith's blog, Monogram Meredith, is her place to share all things fashion and (now!) college lifestyle. Her posts make me laugh out loud frequently and I love interacting with her through social media and over email. 

For those who don't follow your blog, tell us a little bit about yourself! 
I'm Meredith and I blog at Monogram Meredith! I was born and raised in Lexington, Kentucky and just graduated high school. I love lots of things like monograms (obviously), eating lots of good food, dressing up, crafting, watching Grey's Anatomy, and taking each day at a time!

What's a day in the life like as Monogram Meredith? 
It's kind of funny how sometimes things in my day do revolve around something Monogram Meredith related. During the summer, I haven't been doing too much, which has given me time to focus on my blog and shop and I love it! I typically wake up, drink a cup (or two) of coffee, and try to knock some things off my to-do list. I also nanny in the afternoons, which is one of the brightest parts of my life! I like to reply to emails, write a few blog posts, and make shirts during the day, then spend the night relaxing or out with friends! During the school year, it was different because I was going to school each day and just cramming all those things into my night time, but I'm looking forward to having more of a schedule and routine during this upcoming year! 

What's the best memory from your summer so far? 
This summer has been so much fun and I'm feeling bittersweet about it ending! I think the absolute best part was fourth of July weekend, where I went to a two-day country concert and it was so great getting to be with all of my friends and seeing so many great artists! And hey, who doesn't love that kind of patriotic holiday?!

What's some general advice you'd give to high school girls? 
I think I learned so much about myself in high school, and that was crazy important. Everyone starts out feeling one way and eventually finds themselves, but you have to be patient for that point. You'll feel like you're under pressure to do something specific and you'll feel like you have to be the best at everything, but it's important to remember that you can still be a great person and great student even if you're not perfect. Work more towards focusing on yourself and what you love, rather than the overall end goal of college-- that's really important, but I wish I hadn't kicked myself over every single thing and had enjoyed it a little more! Don't compare yourself to others and just work hard!

How do you juggle school, blogging, and your etsy shop? (Plus extra-curriculars and fun events!) 
Finding little pockets of time and staying organized in whatever you do is incredibly important. If you have a chance to study or get something done, go ahead and do it! I always had flash cards or a notebook with me, so if I got stuck waiting somewhere or was riding somewhere, I would try to get just a few things done. It's easy to put it off until you can do it all at once, but that can make things feel really overwhelming. If you get an email, reply to it as soon as you can so it doesn't feel like you have a million emails to answer all at once. With blogging, if I know a post is going to be more writing focused, I write it out on my phone when I find the time. At that same token, schedule your time to the best of your ability. Don't linger on more than one thing if it can be done quickly, and schedule a little bit of time to relax so that you're not finding yourself sleeping or relaxing when it's not convenient. Use your weekends to the best of your ability to knock out chunks of long-term assignments so that the following week isn't as hectic! Overall, just take advantage of time when you have it and keep a list of what you need to do so none of it is overwhelming!

What college are you attending and what will your major be? 
I will be a freshman at the University of Richmond! As of right now, my major is Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. I'm looking at having another concentration or minoring in something else, but that's my path for now! 

from old to new and a slight upgrade in size // love my Lilly!
What planner will you be using for your first year of college? 
I'm using the Jellies Be Jammin by Lilly in a size large! I've used the small the past few years, but I figured with a bigger schedule, I would need a bigger planner!

Favorite brands at the moment?
Oh jeez, I never know how to answer my favorite brands or stores and it depends on what I'm buying! I love Banana Republic and Tommy Hilfiger for long-lasting quality pieces, but I usually try to mix and match from lots of random inexpensive places, my favorites being Target and Old Navy!

What piece are you always reaching for in your closet? 
I love love love my black pants, I feel more chic and slimmed in them than blue jeans at all times during the year. I also can't get enough wears of my blue harem-esque pants that I wore here

What are 5 blogs you can't go a day without reading? 
Oh goodness, I don't know! I'm obsessed with Prep Avenue, College Prep, Design Darling, Rgord, I Wore Yoga Pants to Work, and because I break rules and am adding a 6th, A Thousand Tomorrows! Definitely not saying that because it's you but because I feel so refreshed whenever I read your blog! 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 
Ha. Ha. Haaaaaa. I have no clue. By then, I'll be graduated from college, but at this point, I'm not sure if I'm going to grad school, but that is most definitely an option to be getting my MBA. Other than that, I hope to be living on my own and working a job in marketing (but really, who knows?!).

What's your go to summer hairstyle? 
My go-to is just anything simple! Which for me means letting it air dry, but a french braid is also my saving grace. And plus, it makes your hair even wavier!

And lastly, where can we find you on social media? 
Ayyy, I'm on (and obsess over) almost all social media! 
And you can also like the Monogram Meredith Facebook page and follow me on Etsy!


Wednesday, August 20, 2014

SNEAKY PEAKY

I'm back today for a quick little sneak peak of what's happening this Friday! 

So if you're new to my little corner of the internet, here's a little backround : 3 DAYS FROM TODAY, "A Thousand Tomorrows" will be no more! I'm revamping and rebranding my blog here and I cannot wait for you all to see it this Friday. With the creator of this rebrand, Rgord (best blog designer ever!), I've created something I know I'll love for years. 
 
To give you blog readers a sneak peak, here's a little snip of what the new color scheme and theme is going to look like! Enjoy! 


I hope you're as excited as I am!

xoxo

STARTING AUGUST 22ND, THIS BLOG WILL BE LOCATED AT SYDNEYHUSS.BLOGSPOT.COM


Monday, August 18, 2014

SOPHOMORE YEAR!

Today's the day! It's the first day of my sophomore year in high school. (BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY THE AFTER PARTY SALE! It's going to be my "congrats you survived Monday/the first day of school" present to myself!) I'm super excited to go back to school, shop some Lilly Pulitzer, see all my friends, and see what my classes are all about ... but I'm not to keen on the 6:00 wake up this morning! 

It's definitely not easy going back to school after a fun summer - I spent 2 of the best weeks of my life at Governor's school, had a fun family vacation, and got to spend time with friends and family while home in Charleston. It was the epitome of a relaxing summer.

There's a lot that is going to change this year. For starters, I'm no "freshmeat" anymore, and there's definitely more to my academics and their contribution to my GPA. I have more on my shoulders academically and extra-curricular wise, so there's more time management needed! I'm hoping on accomplishing goals, small and large, and really putting all I have into my work, in and out of school. #gotheextramile
But there's definitely one thing that's heavier on my heart today, as I drive into school with my Dad and brother for my first day of 10th grade year. I've mentioned here how amazing of an experience I've had at Governor's School the past two summers, (I blogged about this summer, since this corner of the internet didn't exist when I went last summer!) and the great impact it's had on me since. What's laying on my heart most, is that this could possibly (and (fingers crossed!) hopefully) be the "last first day" I'll spend at my home, at my school I've spent 5 years attending. I cannot tell you how much I've prayed, letting God know how much of a desire this is on my heart and for my future, how much I would love the experience. (And trust me, that praying isn't stopping today!) It's something I really want and hope for, something that I'm going to work hard to do. It's something I'm truly passionate about, because I love my art, vocal, and having the gift from God to sing. There's something so special about it, how you can impact people's hearts and lives with just one song. There's something so special about that environment that's hard to put into words, and is something that I hope you'll be able to experience yourself with your own art, whether it be blogging, music, dancing, drawing, or the hundreds of other things you may pour your heart and talent into. 
I cannot wait to share this year with you, all of the ups and downs, highs and lows. I am so thankful for this community and all of you reading this, as you are my constant motivation and inspiration, something I could never replace or take away from my daily life and routine. 

Without further ado, the start of school means we're back to #MotivationMondays! I love motivating you (and myself!) each Monday morning. I'd love to view your fun and motivational boards on Pinterest, so please, share your links below!

Lovely    Romans 12:12
{ Christine Caine via } { Romans 12:12 via }

.   
{ some things fall apart via } { go the extra mile via }

Have a great Monday and a blessed week! 

xoxo

Friday, August 15, 2014

On My Radar { 08 . 15 . 2014 }


I've really missed writing these link roundup posts! I always find it fun to share fun links I've found throughout the week, and I also love to read what links other bloggers find. Friday seems to be the day that I bookmark the most on my computer, because what other bloggers share is always so helpful or very funny! 

The picture above gives hint that this post is filled with links about back to school, but I've made sure to include lots of fun articles as well - I think there's more links not about school!

1. PopCosmo has been producing some great content lately. This post about styling pictures on a white background is perfect for anyone looking to step up their Instagram Game! Also, if you're a blogger and you're looking to connect more over social media, #ChicChat is for you - it's every Tuesday night at 9 EST and it's such a blast. 

2. Have you read these "Behind the Gram" blog posts? They're literally the best "tag" I've seen floating around! These are some that I've bookmarked : (Here's the original post, where it all started!) Kira Tabor, "Behind Le Gram"The Blonde Prep, Instagram vs. What Was Really Happening, Pop Cosmo's Behind the Gram, and Krista from Covering the Bases, Instagram vs Real Life! Please share yours in the comments if you've blogged about this yourself, or if you know of any funny ones, definitely share! 

{ SCHOOL } 3. Easy Back to School Outfits via Prep Avenue

4. 11 Signs You're a Blogger (a must read for all bloggers), via The Life You Love

{ SCHOOL } 5. Tips for Back to School via Prep in Your Step

{ SCHOOL } 6. Carly's posts this week really hit the spot for me! This post about finding the right jeans is perfect (someone who understands the struggle!), Five Minute Power Exercises, and Your End of Summer Bucket List, via Maxie McCoy


{ SCHOOL } 8. Secrets to Curling Thick Hair (Prep Avenue)


And if you've missed any posts from this week here on A Thousand Tomorrows, I've linked them all below : 

What links have you been loving lately? 

Have a great weekend! See you Monday! 

xoxo

THIS BLOG WILL BE LOCATED AT SYDNEYHUSS.BLOGSPOT.COM STARTING AUGUST 22ND, 2014.



Thursday, August 14, 2014

Back to School Bags

I can't believe that I start my sophomore year in 4 days! It seems like just yesterday I was finishing my last exam of freshman year. Time sure does fly! 
I mentioned earlier that I love going back to school shopping, and going to get a new tote or backpack is something that goes along with that, every couple of years!! I'm not one to get a new bag for school every year, but when I need a new one (or have my eye on one!), I tend to add it to my wishlist or list of things I hope to purchase soon! I always love looking for a new backpack, and I particularly love the backpacks that The North Face creates. They're super durable, have lots of support, come in adorable color combos, and most of them can be monogrammed! 
With that being said, I've always been a backpack girl for school - they hold everything and then some and really get the job done when carrying books and binders home. (I also tend to carry a purse around school as well, let me know if you'd like to see purses I'd use for school!) However, there are also some days where I have to carry my Longchamp or other large tote if there's more I need to carry!
No matter what grade or age, I've found a selection of 6 backpacks and totes that I think are perfect for school - they're all durable, cute, and you'll get your moneys worth from them.

BACK TO SCHOOL
1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6

What bag are you using this school year?

xoxo

This post was inspired by Prep Avenue's Back to School Bags post - her selections where ones that I'd use as well, and definitely reccomend! 

THIS BLOG WILL BE LOCATED AT SYDNEYHUSS.BLOGSPOT.COM STARTING AUGUST 22ND, 2014. 


EASY AND SIMPLE DIY for School

Going back to school after a great summer is definitely a challenge, but getting to go back to school shopping is probably one of the highlights of returning to school. So many people say this (and it's true!): getting to pick out my new binders and notebooks, pens and pencils, and all the little fun extras is a blast! 
With this being said, I always find the most durable supplies don't come in the cutest patterns that we all hope and wish for! Therefore, I find it even more enjoyable to personally customize my school supplies after purchasing them in store with cute monograms and fun patterns that will last the entire year. 


What You'll Need : 
Binders (with clear plastic sleeve!) and/or Notebooks
Mod Podge + Paintbrush
Cardstock
Binder Covers (See Step 1!)

Step One :: Find and print off cute monogrammed and/or patterned binder covers! I printed these from Printable Monogram (super easy, simply make an account, download, insert your monogram, and print!), but I found a couple of other cute options :: Pop Cosmo Solid Color Binder Covers (A little more time consuming, but a simple and modern color scheme!) // Another Pop Cosmo find, but this time with Lilly Pulitzer patterns! (A little more time consuming again, but worth the stress you'll save!) // Jessica Marie Designs Preppy Printable Binder Covers (Just as easy as the covers from Printable Monogram, but they're all Lilly Patterns!) // Prep in Your Step, DIY Instructions (super easy, very similar patterns to those you'll find on Printable Monogram!)
I suggest that you print your binder covers on cardstock. This way, they'll last all year and you won't have to worry about them being "flimsy" like regular printer paper.

Step Two :: (Personalized Binders Only!) If you're simply looking to spruce up your binder(s), then your job is almost done! Simply slip the cardstock into the plastic sleeve of your binder and you're ready to go to class! 

Note : Last year, I got into the habit of using a 5 subject notebook to keep the majority of my class notes in. I ended up loving this system and decided to start it off fresh at the beginning of my sophomore year! I have a single subject notebook for most of my classes, in which I will get a second notebook for second semester if I feel it necessary. As for the five subject notebooks, I am using one for Pre Calculus Honors and Biology. It leads to less filler notebook paper you'll need in your binder and you won't be purchasing pack after pack! This is why there's also the option to personalize notebooks!

***

Step Two :: (Personalized Notebooks Only!) Once you've printed your beautiful and preppy binder covers, "paint" a thin layer of Mod Podge onto the outer cover of your notebook. This can get messy, so make sure you lay something down underneath the notebook. 
In order to not get Mod Podge inside the holes of my notebook, I opened the front cover of the notebook and laid it down by itself (so that there's no paper is underneath it), and then proceeded to paint the cover. 
Also Note : I corresponded the cover on my notebooks to my binders, so that it made finding the two together easier!

Step Three :: Leave the notebooks to dry and take them to school when needed! 
I didn't like the front or back cover of my notebooks, so I ended up taking a solid color sheet of cardstock and glued it to the back! This is completely optional, depending on your preference and notebook. 

That's all! To complete this project, it took me no longer than 30 minutes and is definitely worth it in the long run. 

What do you do to your school supplies to make them preppy and cute?

xoxo

P.S. If you've personalized your school supplies using this DIY, or have personalized your own using a different method, I'd love to see them! Tag me in your pictures on Instagram (@/athousandtomorrows or @/sydhuss), or send them via Twitter or Email! 

THIS BLOG WILL BE LOCATED AT SYDNEYHUSS.BLOGSPOT.COM STARTING AUGUST 22ND, 2014. 


Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Reading Lilly in Lilly




I'm definitely not one to go all out and go "back to school shopping" but I love planning out what outfits I'm going to wear those first few day of school, as I am sure lots of girls are! I've always been the one that wants to show off my new clothes that I've gotten over the summer that first day - so I'm planning on "debuting" my Lilly Pulitzer Skort on my first day, August 18th! 


Blouse (old), similar here // Skort (similar here) // Shoes

Reading Lilly in Lilly






Have you planned out your first day outfit? What is it? 

xoxo

THIS BLOG WILL BE LOCATED AT SYDNEYHUSS.BLOGSPOT.COM STARTING AUGUST 22ND, 2014. 


Natural, 5 Minute Makeup + VERY EXCITING NEWS

When it comes to getting up every morning and setting aside time to do makeup, I am one that gets quite lazy and doesn't like to put too much time and/or thought into what I'm doing - and I'm sure a lot of other high school and college girls are the same way! 
The look I've created below is my go-to, everyday look for school. In the summer, I am definitely one to stray away from any and all makeup; because, here in Charleston, it's honestly the last thing you're thinking about when its at least 90 degrees outside. 

(Keep reading until the end for the exciting news!) 



I've always been a Bare Minerals girl. I find that their products are perfect for my skin and it really creates an all natural look! 
Mineral Foundation Broad Spectrum // Mineral Veil // Stroke of Light Eye Brightener (Best Under Eye Concealer I've ever used!) // Lash Domination Volumizing Mascara (This works WONDERS!) // Marvelous Moxie Lip Gloss (similar) 



Along with a easy makeup look comes a simple yet functional hair style that will take you seconds! I was really introduced to using hair clips more last summer by my friend Margaret. It works for any hair length and pulls all your hair out of your face so it doesn't annoy you all day long. (And, not to mention, the options that you can find for hair clips are endless!) 


With school starting in the summer, I definitely tend to gravitate to pulling half of my hair back with an EmmieJay, but as school goes on, I end up using hair clips and/or bobby pins more often. Plus, both these hairstyles mean that you're using no heat on your hair, which is always a plus! 


This is the complete look, makeup, hair, and all! Going all natural for school is something I've always done ... and will always do! 

What makeup do you use for school and how do you style your hair? 

xoxo

THE EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT : 
So after I've had you read through this entire post (#bloggingtactics!), I'm so excited to announce that I will be rebranding the blog (with lots of help from Rachel Gordon!), including a whole new name, URL, and scheme! I've found over the 1+ year I've been blogging, the URL "everydaysouthernprep" isn't too fitting and really doesn't encompass my entire blog. I love to write about style, but more importantly, I love to share my high school lifestyle and motivation. Therefore, I'm rebranding the blog to something that will always encompass who I am and will be - Sydney Huss. It's honestly something I've thought about for a long time - remember that rebranding to A Thousand Tomorrows? I've been trying to think of a name that will always describe who I am, and I think I've found it. With this change, I hope that I'll step up my game and really start posting the high quality content I've always planned.
So, without further ado ... 

THIS BLOG WILL BE LOCATED AT SYDNEYHUSS.BLOGSPOT.COM STARTING AUGUST 22ND, 2014. 


Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Tea Talk Tuesday : Carly from The College Prepster

 
I was so excited when Carly from  The College Prepster agreed to answer my questions for my interview sereis! I've looked up to Carly and her blog since before I started blogging, and she has definitely been one of my biggest inspirations. I hope these questions give you a little peek into her life in NYC as a blogger. 

For those who don't follow your blog, tell us a little bit about yourself! 

I started my blog when I was a freshman at Georgetown University. I've since graduated (2012) and moved to NYC where I currently live with my puppy Teddy!

You're always posting great content, and often times twice a day! What's your favorite way to brainstorm new ideas for blog posts? 

I'm actually pretty bad about ideas. I like to feel the pressure of a "deadline" a bit. But when it comes down to actually thinking of an idea, I turn to what's going on in my life.

You've gotten the chance to work with some great brands! What companies would you love to work with in the future? 

I really have worked with so many of my favorite brands already. I'd love to find a way to work with J. Crew though... of course!

Who/what is your greatest inspiration in blogging? Style? 

One of my favorite blogs to read is Cup of Jo. I'm not necessarily her target demographic, but I like her blogging style a lot. In terms of style, I like the way Olivia Palermo, Reese Witherspoon, and Jenna Lyons dress!

What are your favorite touristy locations in NYC? 

The Highline, Central Park, and The Met are all some of my favorites. The Highline and Central Park are both great when I'm sick of all the buildings, sidewalks, and concrete! The Met is always a great escape. I don't get to go as often as I like, but if I have a few hours in the afternoon with no plans, I try to pop in!

If you're about to go out with friends for a dinner, what will you be wearing? 

White skinny jeans, striped shirt, and a blazer.

What's your typical order for a Sunday Brunch?

The classic brunch debate: sweet or savory. If I have a lot going on afterward, I tend to opt for savory (omelet with spinach and goat cheese!). When I have more of a relaxing day and can suffer through a sugar crash (ha), I always go for French toast!

If you could give your high school self (and college self!) one piece of advice, what would you say?

Relax, everything is going to work out.

Favorite color combo? 

Changes every week it seems... but right now I'm into navy with neutrals (creams, tans, whites).

a bit of reading before bed 👌
What book are you currently reading? 

The Art of Thinking Clearly


xoxo

Friday, August 1, 2014

August : Travel and Organization

Let's all take a minute to realize that it's already August. Pinch me now! 2014 is over half way done and I cannot believe that I'm starting my sophomore year of high school in 17 days! 

New Year, new direction :: 4 steps to make 2014 your best year yet
{ see my 2014 resolutions post here }

This month is one of the busier ones of the year! I left early this morning for a trip to see family for nine days, and nine days after I get home I start school, so as you can expect, there's lots to do. I have 3 books to finish reading for that dreaded summer reading, organize and "preppify" my school supplies, and plan out blog posts for the next month or so, just so that I'm organized on that platform of my life!

Last month, I skipped my original resolution plan because I wasn't traveling anywhere, so the resolution of "Travel" didn't seem to really fit into the month very well. With that being said, I've simply combined July and August's resolution to create one fun and functional month of checking off these resolutions! 

This past April, I had one of my greatest travel experiences by going to Italy with the Vocal Department at my school for 8 days. (If only I made the resolution of Travel for that month!) It was so much fun and I definitely learned a lot about what it takes to travel abroad. 
As I am not traveling abroad in this situation, I still plan on using some of the same tactics when flying and how to make the most out of my trip. A comfortable (yet chic!) outfit is a necessity for the plane, my checked baggage has to be planned out day by day (thankfully I can do laundry!), and my carry-ons must have all of my essentials for in-flight access. 
My biggest goal for my vacation is to have an amazing time with family. I haven't been back to Wisconsin for at least 3 years, so I'll be seeing quite a few family members and friends that I haven't gotten to see in years. The key to accomplishing this? Keep the phone out of sight! Whether it's putting your phone on silent or simply leaving at the house/hotel while out and about, you'll keep yourself in the moment, rather than worrying about the latest Twitter notification or email you've just received. 
Also, bring your family camera! Family vacations are the perfect time to capture fun moments and save them for years. I have photos from when my brother and I visited the Wisconsin State Fair when we were probably 8 or 9, so you can assume that when I go back and visit Monday I'll be taking pictures to re-create old memories and make new ones! 

The second resolution for this month is organization. Now I'm a very organized person overall, but when it comes to school, I definitely up my game. I love utilizing notebooks, agendas, and wall calendars when it comes time for school, because it makes it easier to visualize everything you need to accomplish in the week/month. Staying organized during the school year will definitely lower your stress level and keep you on the top of your game! If you can start out with good study and organizational habits in the beginning, they'll carry you through the end of the school years, all the way to exams! 

How are your resolutions coming, and how do you plan to conquer them in "Part 2" of 2014? 

xoxo



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