Tea Talk Tuesday : Caroline from Citrus and Style

  Caroline from Citrus and Style
I read tons of blogs every day, but one that really sticks out is Caroline's! She has great posts about fashion and fitness, and really shows that you can live a healthy lifestyle while still having a lot of fun. Recently, Caroline was featured on The Trendy Chic and shared her amazing tips on how to stay organized, blogging, and doing well in school. It's definitely worth the read! 

What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned as a high school student? What are you most looking forward to in your junior year? 

This year I’ve definitely learned the value of hard work. I have always studied hard, but something made me work harder this year, especially on my finals! Junior year is definitely going to be a difficult one, but I can’t wait to take photography and get closer to becoming an editor on my school yearbook ;)

What are your dreams when it comes to college and choosing your occupation? 

I know I want to stay in the Midwest or head to the East Coast, but I’m still kind of confused about whether or not I’d like to be in a city or a more rural area! As for my occupation, I’d love to go into business with a minor in fashion - combining those two things would be so fun for me. 

What drew you to blogging and what is the background to your blog’s name, Citrus and Style? 

In middle school I began reading fashion blogs like The College Prepster, and everyone always told me that I should start my own blog. I knew how much work it would take so the summer before my freshman year I took the plunge and have been obsessed ever since! The name citrus & style was really a spur of the moment decision, and I didn’t know it would it would come to represent my blog or myself so well.

What motivates you to live a healthy lifestyle and exercise frequently?

The number one thing that inspires me to live a healthy lifestyle is how good I feel when I’m eating nutritious foods and exercising regularly. I feel well rested, energized and am usually in a good mood. Not to mention, there’s no better feeling than when you finish a long workout! 

Even though you’re very minimal when it comes to makeup, what are a few products you wouldn't be able to go without?

I’ve found that curling my eyelashes really gives the allusion that I’m wearing mascara, so my eye lash curler is definitely a good tool to have, as well as a great lip butter and gloss, preferably in a pretty pink. 

What are three classic pieces you believe that every woman should have in her wardrobe?

Pearl studs, a navy and white striped tee and a great tan bag are my 3 go-to’s!

How do you find time to balance both your high school life and Citrus and Style?

It definitely is kind of difficult to manage it all, but I focus on school during the week and brainstorm blog ideas when they come to me. Over the weekend I write up all my posts (minus the Friday Fours of course) and schedule them for the upcoming days. 

Who/What are some of your inspirations for interior design, fashion, and beauty?

Blogger wise, Mackenzie Horan and Julia Dzafic always inspire me with their fun outfits and colorful interior spaces! I also love Olivia Palermo’s street style - she always looks so chic and put together.

What are your 5 favorite posts that you’ve published on Citrus and Style?

This is a hard one! I love sharing pictures from my space so my desk tour and gallery wall tours would be up there.

What would be your biggest tip for an aspiring blogger?

I would say be original and really emphasize what makes you and your blog unique. There are so many similar blogs these days that people are attracted to content that is new and fresh!

What are some of your favorite summer reads?

I just finished Something Blue by Emily Giffin and I LOVED it. A few nights ago I started Where’d You Go Bernadette and it is such a funny one.

Apps you can’t live without?

Instagram. I check it way too many times a day ;)

What do you use to photograph your blog posts? 

Sometimes I use my iPhone depending on what I’m photographing, but I usually use my Nikon DSLR d3200. I just got it for my birthday and it is the most useful gift I’ve ever gotten!

Where can we find you on social media?

@citrusandstyle on both Instagram and Twitter, and Caroline Yauck on Pinterest! 

Make sure to go and show sweet Caroline some love! 

Come back next Tuesday to read the next installment in "Tea Talk Tuesday"!

xoxo

Tea Talk Tuesday : Darcy from A Memory of Us

      

Darcy from A Memory of Us

Tell us a little bit about yourself! 

Hi everyone! My name is Darcy and I blog over at A Memory of Us (www.amemoryofus.blogspot.com) A little about me -- I graduated college 1.5 years ago. I'm a Nebraska girl at heart but I followed my then-boyfriend, Tyler, to Kansas City, MO after graduating. Monday through Friday I am working as a System Engineer. Tyler proposed to me on October 31, 2013! We are in the midst of wedding planning now and are officially becoming Mr. and Mrs. April 2015! I could not be more excited. These days I am spending my time wedding planning, blog writing, hanging out with my best gals, and just living life to the fullest! 

Where did you go for college and how did you decide on your major? 

I went to Northwest Missouri State University (go Bearcats!) and graduated with a business management major and database management systems minor. My ultimate career goal is project management so that is how I landed on business management. I added in a minor when I realized I was going to graduate in 3 years without one, haha! (I still left in 3.5 years, though.) I chose to focus on computer science because of the demand for programmers. It is definitely challenging and some days are frustrating but ultimately I love writing code... especially when I get the program to do what I want it to! 

What are some of the fashion blogs that inspired you to create your own? 

The first fashion blog I ever read was Pink Peonies. After, I started discovering more that I loved... especially The Sweetest Thing. 

You mentioned that you enjoy watching beauty videos. What are some of your favorite YouTube channels? 

The Beauty Community on YouTube is seriously amazing! Not kidding when I say I can watch YouTube videos all night after work. Missglamorazzi and TessChristine are my absolute favorites! 

How were you able to grow your blog to what it is today? 

Blogging looks like it would be easy and not a huge time commitment from the outside, but really it takes so much time and work! Network like crazy. People are not just going to stumble across your blog in the beginning. You need to get your name out there so comment on other people's blogs and participate in link ups!

What are some of your apps? 

I don't really use anything that exciting... I love Instagram for social media and 7 Little Words for a fun game. 

Where would you love to travel to at the moment?

LONDON! Tyler has already agreed that London will be where we go for our one year anniversary trip! 

How do you edit your Instagram pictures? 

I really only use the filters on Instagram, however I use picfx for cropping! 

What is the biggest opportunity that has come your way since you began blogging in 2013? 

The biggest opportunity is working with brands and being able to write reviews about the products! The best moment was being featured as Lauren Conrad's chic of the week! 

What are the three makeup products that you have to use on a daily basis? 

Foundation (right now I am just using the sephora brand), mascara (Maybelline the Rocket), and I always fill in my eyebrows! I use the NYX eyebrow kit. 

What kind of camera do you use when taking your pictures for “A Memory of Us”? How about lenses?

18-55 mm lens on a dslr Nikon. 

Where can we find you on social media? 

I only use Instagram and my username is _darcyylynn_ . Hope to "meet" you there!! 

Tea Talk Tuesday : Sloane Kratzman from Sailing the Sea of Style

          

Sloane from Sailing the Sea of Style

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I write a personal style and travel blog called Sailing the Sea of Style. I started my corner of the interwebz in August of 2012, quite randomly but it has turned into something that I will be forever grateful for.

What drew you to sailing and what is one of your favorite memories of sailing?

My dad grew up sailing and it was always been something huge in our family and life. My older brother is a sailing, so it was quite obvious I was going to be one too- ha (-: I've yet to come across a favorite memory.... so I'm not sure. 

What are your 3 favorite travel destinations?

Without a doubt, Florence, Provence, and St.Barths

How have you been able to grow your blog to what it is today?

I am about to be very cliche, but all it takes is passion and dedication. The readers will come as long as you give them a reason too.

Your outfit pictures are absolutely perfect! What camera/lenses do you use and how do you edit your pictures?

I use a Nikon D3200 with several different lenses, but I must give more credit to some my primary photographer, Alexandra Gibbs.

Who are some of your biggest fashion inspirations?

Less "who", but more "where & when". For inspiration, I look to the Euro cities of Stockholm, Coopahagen and London. And of course, the 60s and 70s. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Two words: no.clue. 

What are your three favorite outfits that you’ve featured on your blog in 2014? All time?

These three are some of my favorites- 1,2,3

What are you most looking forward to about high school?

Just a new adventure.

What are your favorite parts about the city?

The endless culture and new experiences.

What three locations would you recommend to a friend to visit when they are visiting NYC?

1- The High Line

2- Lunch at BG

3- Brunch at August and shopping on Bleecker St.

Where can we find you on social media?

@sailingseastyle

xoxo

Reblogging and Reblogging

Back in March, I created my second Tumblr account very hesitantly - I had tried it a long time ago and I absolutely hated it. And, after being a Pinterest addict, I didn't think that Tumblr would be my thing! (There's no boards for organization, that's the hardest part for me, kinda OCD about it!!) 

I. love. it. 

It's the center of all things preppy and occasional hilarious posts pop up on my newsfeed from my friends that make me laugh so hard. A lot of the posts are those that you'd find on Pinterest, but I find scrolling through my Tumblr feed seems a lot less daunting than my Pinterest feed for some reason. (Don't worry though, I'm still just as in love with Pinterest!) 

So without further ado, below I've shared eight of my favorite Tumblr accounts that I find myself always reblogging from. Some even have personal blogs to go along with the Tumblr blog, so make sure to check those out, too! 

TUMBLR BLOG // PINTEREST PROFILE

ACK Whales

Charleston Class

The Glitter Guide Tumblr // The Glitter Guide Blog

Massachusetts Prep

Politics and Prep

Sequins and Sarcasm

The College Prepster Tumblr // The College Prepster Blog

Monogram Meredith Tumblr // Monogram Meredith Blog
What are some of your favorite Tumblr blogs? Leave your own links below, too! 
xoxo

Tea Talk Tuesday : Sydney from Summer Wind

  Meet Sydney from Summer Wind! Not only do we share the same name, but we also share the same love for blogging! I've been following Sydney's blog since before I began my blog and I absolutely love reading Summer Wind every morning. Read below   to learn a little bit about Sydney's exciting and fast                                    paced life in Pittsburgh, PA! 

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA and headed south to get my undergrad degree in PR at James Madison University! Once I graduated, I moved back to Pittsburgh and I now work for a luxury event planning company. I started Summer Wind on a whim my freshman year of college in 2009 and haven't looked back! 

What are some of your favorite places in Pittsburgh?

Without a doubt, Mt. Washington which is an overlook that shows off the entire city. It is breathtaking and my favorite place in all of Pittsburgh. As for food, Little Tokyo is the absolute best for sushi!! 

What are some of your favorite apps? (Both productive and fun!)

Hmmm.. well for photo editing, I absolutely love VSCO cam! I say pay for the extra filters- some are so great! I also really like the Starbucks and RueLaLa apps-- makes coffee drinking and shopping on the go super easy! 

 Favorite summer reads?

Well, I just finished The Fault In Our Stars last month and I was obsessed-- but definitely not a beach read since it is so sad! I recommend Summer at Tiffanys-- a really cute book and an easy read! 

What are some of your favorite Summer/Fall fashion trends?

I am loving the midi skirt trend-- so ladylike and fun! Other than that, I'm not really a trendy kind of girl-- I like to stick to classics! 

What are some of your favorite posts that you've written?

Ohhh this is a hard one! I've written almost 1500 posts on Summer Wind! I love looking back in the early years of Summer Wind since it is like a diary and recaps my college life! It's so much fun to look back on the great memories! 

What are some of your daily reads?

I wish I could say that I have daily reads, but because of my demanding work schedule, I don't get much blog reading in! I really love Atlantic-Pacific!

 How did you decide on James Madison University and what drew you to Public Relations and Writing?

I actually had no idea about JMU before I applied-- my parents had heard good things, so I applied and then went down once I was accepted and absolutely fell in love! I was originally a business major, but decided I wanted something a little more creative and when talking with my adviser, he suggested I take a few classes in PR... I fell in love! I also have always loved writing so it just felt natural to minor in writing--plus it pairs with PR really well! 

What did you love most about joining Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA)?

Definitely my friendships. I'm in my 'bigs' wedding in September and I can confidently say that I made friends for life in ZTA! 

What is your favorite travel destination?

Ohhh.. such a tough one! I would have to say our family's lake house in Georgia because it is so beautiful and when I am down there, I am surrounded by all of my family. I am currently having a severe bout of wanderlust and dreaming of traveling Europe! Hopefully sometime in the next year or so :)

Where can we find you on social media?

I am on all sorts of social media! @SummerWind41490 for both Twitter and Instagram as well as Pinterest and Tumblr!

I hope you enjoyed this installment of Tea Talk Tuesday! If you have a blog of your own and would be interested in being featured, please email me at athousandtomorrowsblog@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! 

xoxo

A YEAR LATER

365 days, 52 weeks, 12 months and 256 published posts later, I have successfully finished my first year blogging. I honestly don't know if I would still be blogging to this day if it weren't for great readers, lots of encouragement, and inspiration from other amazing bloggers. I've learned so much - and it feels like just yesterday that I published my first post and created my own little spot on the internet. 
When I started blogging, I (honestly) began wanting to get all the readers and a major response. I wanted to be just as successful as a lot of the girls' blogs I was currently reading, wanted to have all the amazing opportunities and the insane amount of followers on social media and on their blog itself. It was definitely a jealousy game at first for me. I have had those low moments (and still do) when I just don't want to blog because I don't feel like my blog is going anywhere - but, then I remember where I've come, the friendships, and the branding opportunities that have come out of it all and I just keep blogging. Every blogger is always going to tell you that you cannot expect to get all the followers day 1. Some bloggers may have the absolute pleasure of getting their blog picked up after the first few months, (which is great!) but I have loved being able to grow my blog without the pressure of the amount of readers and followers.  With all this being said, I have been able to blog for myself, and have realized what a joy and great creative outlet it brings to my life.  Bloggers like Carly, who has been mentioned infinite times on this blog, just had the great opportunity where she created her blog at the right time (and she's so lucky!). But now there are blogs everywhere, social media has boomed, and competition has spiked. If you're stuck and you're thinking of giving up on blogging - don't. It's so worth it. 
I mentioned last week that being a blogger in high school isn't the easiest thing. And it really isn't. There aren't many people who understand you. It's hard to talk with my friends about HTML, twitter stats, Google Analytics, post ideas, etc. I was (and still am) so worried about the response I would get from my peers when they found out that I write to readers I've never met. I even created a separate Instagram just so that my personal Instagram would not be harassed by people who didn't understand what I was doing. I even started off Freshman year with few people knowing ... and that number of a few has barely grown. For some reason, it's just something that I'm worried about telling others about. By the end of the year, I had a few people even tease me for my blog, which made me even more self-conscious and did not help. (My one friend, Mariah, teases me playfully and now calls me ESP and asks if a certain event is "blog worthy", which I love!)  There have been times where I am self-conscious about hearing people talk about it, or read my posts (sometimes aloud) in front of me. For some reason it makes me uncomfortable, which needs to change over this next year of blogging. 
Since that first post, I've even changed the brand of my blog. There's no more "Everyday Southern Prep" banner as you enter my site, but it's now A Thousand Tomorrows - which, in truth, I feel now doesn't even really describe who I am and the brand I want to build. It has been so hard for me to figure out what category this blog fits into and how I should title it, so in the near future, there may be a brand + URL change solely so that I can brand myself the way I want to show myself. I don't know if it's just me or if other bloggers have had this issue, but it's really something I've been considering these past few weeks. 
I've been able to join 3 blog groups - Her Campus, The Smart Girls, and the SITS Girls. Each of them has impacted me and my blogging in some way; whether that be improving my content, allowing me to meet many other bloggers, or just connect in new ways over social media and link ups. Blog Groups are so helpful and most don't even cost you a penny - they're SO WORTH IT. 
I was also contacted by two brands this month - Julep and Tiny Prints, to work with them to highlight their awesome brands and products. It was the highlight of my time as a blogger thus far, especially hearing very kind and inspirational words from the woman I worked closely with during my collaboration with Tiny Prints. It was such a great way to celebrate an almost year of blogging and definitely gave me a burst of confidence I needed this summer after a rough and difficult year at school. 
Part of the benefit of blogging is having an online diary. Some bloggers don't always share their personal lives, (which I totally understand and respect!) but I have loved being able to share parts of my high school life with you. When I am older, graduated, married and have kids, I cannot wait to be able to pull up my blog from high school (that continues until God knows when), and show them how "cool" mom was. (LOL they're probably going to make fun of me) I can only think what my future husband will think.
One of the largest benefits that I've seen come out of blogging has to be my writing skills. Part of English classes and High School Testing includes timed writing on a certain subject. Blogging is definitely very similar - there have been countless times when I've picked my topic, and written away for 30 minutes because that's all the time I have. 
Some of my FAVORITE Posts :: 
Branding, Organization, and Selling Yourself as a Blogger Tea Talk Tuesday Series Italy Reflection What's in My Carry-On EXCITING NEWS + Night On The Town My Real Self Breakfast in Bed 2013 in Pictures ( 1 // 2 ) 2 0 1 4 15th Birthday + 15 in 365
Thank you for being such great readers and such an inspiration and motivation to me. You'll never know how much you really mean to me. And I hope that someday I'll be able to meet a few of you in real life.  I feel like I haven't said everything I wanted to say, but I can't ramble on any longer!
xoxo

Tea Talk Tuesday : Jackie from York Avenue

  

Happy Tuesday! I hope you're enjoying this series as much as I am. I have really loved reaching out to some of my favorite bloggers and getting to know more about themselves and their blogs. This week, Jackie from York Avenue has shared a little bit about her life as an Operating Room Registered Nurse in the Big Apple! 

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself! 

I'm an Operating Room RN by day, and in my spare time I work on my blog and pursue a few different hobbies. I've recently fallen in love with photography, and my DSLR has definitely been one of the best investments I've made. In addition to that I love reading, baking, and exploring NYC. I grew up on Long Island, which is very close to the city, so I always came to visit Manhattan as a kid but never really imagined that I'd end up living here. I'm so glad that I did! I have a lot of fun trying new restaurants, going to different parks, visiting museums, and just walking around exploring different neighborhoods. 

2. What is it like being an Operating Room RN? 

Working in the Operating Room is great! It's exciting, interesting, and fast-paced, and I work with amazingly smart and talented people. No two days are the same and I'm constantly learning new things. 

3. Where did you go to college and how did you decide on your major?

I went to SUNY Fredonia in upstate New York for two years and then finished up my last two years of college at Stony Brook University on Long Island. I decided on a Psychology major because I found the subject to be fascinating, and still do! Psychology is a huge part of everyday life, though we don't often think of it that way. After I finished my Bachelor's in Psych I went back to school for nursing because I knew that it would be a really interesting career path. It's full of variety and you can do so many things with it, so I definitely think I made a good choice! 

4. What are your three favorite brunch spots in NYC?

I'm obsessed with brunch, so I'm constantly looking for new favorites! Sarabeth's is one of my top choices. I've been to their Upper East Side and Central Park South locations, and both are lovely. I love the atmosphere, and their pancakes are amazingly delicious. Another place I've only been to once, but which really stuck with me, is called Clinton St. Baking Company, on the Lower East Side. There's always an insane wait, but it was actually worth it. Their hot chocolate and pancakes were seriously AMAZING. My mouth waters just thinking about it! Note to self: go back as soon as possible! Lastly, I really like Alices Tea Cup. They also have a few locations (the Upper East Side one being my favorite, of course!), and I just love how whimsical and cute everything is in there. Aside from the charming decor though, the food is actually quite delicious as well! They have the most fantastic buttermilk scones with clotted cream and jam...so yummy! It's a fun place that you'll really only find in a city like New York. Places like that are part of what I love about this city!

5. What drew you to NYC, and what do you love most about living there?

I came to NYC because I was incredibly lucky to get an amazing job here. After nursing school I decided it would be great to really get out on my own and see what city life would be like. So far, it's been amazing and I'm so glad that I moved here. I also wanted to stay close to where my family is, so this is really the ideal place to be. 

6. What are some of your interior design inspirations (people, locations)?

For interior design, I'm constantly inspired by anything that Michelle Adams does. She has an aesthetic that I really relate to, and I usually love anything designed or styled by her. I love the edginess of Kelly Wearstler's home goods, and I'm also always inspired by other bloggers, such as Elements of Style and Live Creating Yourself. ABC Carpet and Home and Anthropologie are two stores that always get my creative juices flowing as well!

7. What are your three favorite food related posts you’ve written?

Great question! I love writing food posts, since I'm a huge fan of baking and food photography. I was really proud of my Snickerdoodles post, because it was one of the first I did with my DSLR and I just really loved how the photos came out. I also love my second birthday cake post, because I just love that cake and the memories I have of baking it with my family every year (it's a bit of a tradition). My Olive-Oil Granola post is a favorite as well because I like the photography and I love that recipe, which I've made a zillion times! 

8. Favorite books and movies for summer?

For summer, I'm psyched to continue reading the Game of Thrones books. I just started the first one after getting obsessed with the TV show, and I'm loving it! I'm also excited for The Vacationers by Emma Straub, which seems like a great summer read, and to try The Fault in Our Stars, after seeing the movie and really enjoying it (through the amazing amount of tears it brought on!). I'm not too good at keeping up with movies, but I am excited for the Gone Girl movie to come out! 

9. What is your current go to bag?

My current go-to bag for summer is my Madewell Perforated Transport Tote. I have the tote in black and use it constantly, so when I saw the perforated version I knew I had to scoop it up! I've hardly stopped using it since it arrived, which is how I know it was a wise purchase. It's so lightweight, holds a ton, and it's completely versatile. The neutral caramel color goes with anything, and the perforations are a perfect little touch for summer. 

10. What is one of the biggest achievements you’ve had since you began blogging?

My biggest achievements since starting blogging have definitely been my home tours on The Everygirl, Houzz, and Apartment Therapy. I was pretty shocked and incredibly flattered that these great websites wanted to publish my apartment, and it was so incredibly exciting to get to share my space with such a wide audience. It's really interesting seeing how different photographers capture the space in different ways, and I'm just really grateful for all three experiences. 

11. What is one piece of advice you would give to high school girls? College?

For high school girls, I would say be yourself! It's so hard at the time, but don't worry about fitting in with the cool kids or what other people are saying and doing. Don't follow the crowd. Looking back on high school, I wish I had just been more relaxed and not worried so much about what people were thinking of me. For college girls, I would say try to figure out what you're passionate about. College flies by and then it's time to make major decisions about what you want to do with the rest of your life, so pay attention to where your talents lie and what subjects and activities make you happy. 

12. What’s your favorite section of NYC other than the UES (Upper East Side)?

Other than the UES, which I'm obsessed with, I actually really like the Upper West Side. It's similar to the Upper East, but has it's own distinctive personality. It's gorgeous in terms of architecture and the beautiful side streets lined with townhouses, and Central Park is right there, which is just lovely. There are many great shops, bakeries, and restaurants. It's somewhat residential and not too crowded as far as NYC neighborhoods go. I just think it's very picturesque and has a great vibe. 

13. What are some pieces you feel every woman should have in her closet?

As far as fashion goes, I live a very casual life! I wear scrubs to work so I can't really speak to work clothes, but for someone like me, I would say a great fitting and COMFORTABLE pair of jeans is a must, along with a great pair of white jeans and black jeans. I think an army green jacket is always great, and lately I've been all about Converse sneakers paired with skinnies. A great, perfect fitting white tee is a classic and a must (I love the Everlane u-neck), and a stylish raincoat is very important too. Great rain and snow boots are also a city essential, which I've sadly yet to find! A few standout, high-quality bags can also elevate any outfit I think, and they're great investments if you pick something classic. 

14. Where can we find you on social media?

I'm on Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads...stop by and say hello if you'd like!

Have a great Tuesday! 

xoxo

P.S. If you have a blog of your own and are interested in being featured in "Tea Talk Tuessday" please shoot me an email at athousandtomorrowsblog@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! 

Reflection : New Years Resolution #6

2014 Resolutions Post
June was such a great month. School ended on a high note - only because exams were over, I got to get back into the swing of blogging after the lack of posts in May, and I got to catch up on sleep, create a fun and easy breezy summer routine, and just relax. A lot of people tend to go for crazy summer plans, in which they're gone the mass majority of the summer traveling place to place (the case for me last summer), but I have truly enjoyed just hanging low and getting lots of work done. 
This month, I concentrated on blogging which was great. Like I said, June was my month to catch up on blogging and put a lot of time and effort into publishing better and solid content. (I hope you've felt the same way as the reader!) I also started my  own series, Tea Talk Tuesday, to highlight bloggers that I love. I also joined a new blog group, the SITS girls - and have loved being part of such an upbeat and encouraging group of girls.  I also found a few new blogs that I absolutely love and read every morning. One of my most recent findings is of my friend Claire's blog, Adventures in Deutshland. This fall, Claire is coming to SOA for Vocal, and I am so jealous that she gets to spend the next month and a half in Germany. Her blog is just her simply writing what her time is like there and how she's enjoying her experience. 
My blog's first birthday is the 2nd - and I am so excited to write all about what this year has been like for me. I had big dreams of creating a fun little post, but with the next two days that I have planned it may not be happening. (but still, fingers crossed!) 
And to end, July's resolution may be and/or omitted until next month. During July, I am supposed to focus on Travel, but I am not traveling out of state (I'll be going to Greenville for 2 weeks in 6 days) until August, and August's resolution is Organization (I have to get back into the swing of things for school!) - so I may just combine the two and have one massive month to get lots done! 
This week I have a lot planned, between 2 doctor appointments, getting ready for camp, and blog tons, so I need some massive motivation to keep me in good spirits! 
Have a great Monday!
xoxo

On My Radar { 06 . 27 . 14 }

This week was super chill, which was just what I needed. In just 9 days I head off to camp for two weeks, so this next week is going to get hectic, between writing multiple posts for my time away and getting packed, rehearsed (I have to perform the first day I get there!), and finalizing the last few details. 
ONE :: The Fault in Our Stars + Anne Frank Kiss I LOVED The Fault in Our Stars (crying one minute and laughing the next, what's not to love?!), and soon after I saw it with my friend Cathie, this article from NBC News popped up on my Facebook News Feed. I don't necessarily agree fully with what the reviewers and critics are complaining about, but it was interesting to see their point of view and to see what made them cringe halfway through the movie.  After Hazel and Gus climb 3 flights of stairs to see Anne Frank's home, Hazel (with her terrible lungs) is out of breath. One of the most culminating moments of the book/movie is when Gus and Hazel share a memorable (and adorable) kiss in Anne Franks' living room. But, critics aren't so happy with the scene because they don't approve how such a happy moment can take place in one of the saddest moments in history. (I'd like to hear your perspective, comment below!) 
TWO :: JacksGap Collaboration I love Jack and Finn Harries (#mcm forever and always) and their very creative videos and daring adventures. One of Jack's recent videos is a challenge/collab with his viewers/readers of his blog and videos, to make a short video stating the following : What Do You Fear and/or What Do You Love? The boy's goal is to create the largest YouTube collab, and I definitely want to take part - and would love it if you would join me! 
{ via this post }  THREE : Eveleyn Henson Free Downloads A while back, Carly from the Chicago Prepster blogged about Evelyn Henson's adorable tech wallpapers! Since then, I've been obsessed and have so many saved to my phone to change at different times! Eveleyn makes lots of the quotes/wallpapers you see all over Pinterest and Tumblr which I am in love with. 
FOUR :: Gentle Ways to Take a Break Summer is the perfect time to take a break, especially between camps, jobs, internships, school, and chores! This post shares 55 ways to take a break - some are easy to think of and others are more creative. I am definitely going to continue referencing this throughout the summer and into the school year! 
FIVE :: 10 DIY Projects from Design Darling Summer also means lots of free time, and I am always looking for fun projects to do instead of blogging or reading (or watching Netflix, no shame)! I really want to try painting the inside of my door, creating a porcelain jewelry stand, or the gold leaf frames before summer ends! 
What links are you loving this week? 
Have a great weekend! See you girlies on Monday! 
xoxo