ONE // Crème brûlée topped cinnamon rolls

If that isn’t enough for you, try the naturally sweet dark chocolate coconut bites, rose flavored rock candy, and 26 foods even more fun on a stick. And after you’ve made your delicious food, well, you gotta take a picture! Otherwise it’s not official, duh 😉 Try these food styling and photography tips. If you want good food without having to make it yourself, go out for Pressed Juicery Freeze. The freeze is “pretty much exactly what you’d expect from their cold-pressed juice line — nutrient-dense, small batch, vegan — only blended to a fro-yo like consistency, creating the perfect summer treat.” What you eat can change the world. If this kid doesn’t convince you of it, I don’t know who will. Of course, it won’t be easy, but you’re not alone! Here are some honest thoughts about going vegan.

TWO // You’re probably type A-minus

Are you a type A personality? Or more like a type A-minus? Whatever you are, say it loud and proud and believe in the power of I Am. Tell others that you’re proud of them too! Maybe what you need is balance. Maybe all you need is to come to terms with the contradictions in your life. Maybe you’re in a funk you need to get out of. Maybe you need to find your zen. Maybe you need to create a vision board. Try different things, because trying is always worth it.

THREE // How I design a full brand and website in just two weeks

Many of you probably already have your own blog, and many of the rest of you are probably thinking about starting one. You might have waited until summer to do it, as you have more time now than you have during the school year. That’s what I did anyway (I originally launched my blog on Tumblr on September 30 and relaunched my blog on Blogspot on August 14). And you can do it too, starting right now! Don’t be afraid to promote yourself; someone’s gotta tell someone about your blog! I wouldn’t recommend getting into blogging solely for the money, but you shouldn’t be ashamed of making money either; you put hard work into it, so you should get something out of it. Something I didn’t know when I first started was that working with sponsors isn’t the only way to make a living as a blogger. I didn’t have to worry much about it (and still don’t) because I don’t accept any sponsorships or advertisements, but I’m open to collaborations. I’m a big believer of focusing on your own work, writing your own posts, doing your own photography. To get you started, here’s a manual mode cheat sheet. I personally don’t like using stock photos, but if you’re not focusing on photography, try stocksy.

FOUR // DIY rose pink hair + braid

As I mentioned in my summer bucket list, I really want to dye my hair and pierce my ears. I fell in love with this rose pink hair as soon as I saw it, but I’m not sure if I can pull it off. Honestly at this point I don’t even care. You don’t know until you try it! If it ends up looking horrendous, I’ll just hide it in a ponytail or hat or something. I just want to knowww. Anyways, in other fashion and beauty news: how to sound like you’ve been going to couture shows all week, smooth summer legs, items for tired eyes, concealer hacks, reshaping brows, triple bun half updo, and Laura Mercier bath honey in golden honey musk review. Also check out this interesting reason for saying no to “flattering” clothes.

FIVE // Want waterproof books? Support Bibliobath

I’ve dreamed about waterproof books since forever, and now it’s real! After acquiring several books on my iPad, I’m finally back in the rhythm of reading habitually and have finished four books this week: The Best of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle, Girl Online by Zoe Sugg, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han, and I’ve just finished Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson this morning. Next up is The Maze Runner by James Dashner! Now I’m only two books behind my 2015 Reading Challenge. Add me on Goodreads to stay updated! I will also be posting “book reviews” (more like quote hoards) on the blog. Need book recs? Check out all 339 books referenced in Gilmore Girls.

UNRELATED // Just finished making pancakes with my little/tall brother Danny, like one minute ago! The last pancake was the most circular and so beautiful, but we love pancakes of all shapes and sizes! (on my Snapchat story @auderoylin.)

BONUS // F*ck that: a guided meditation.
THIS IS HILARIOUS AND HAS MADE MY WEEK.

How has your week been?

PS: 06. 05. 04. 03. 02. 01.

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ONE // How to pack: the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 guide

In a month I’ll be flying back to the States, but for those of you who are leaving for vacation a little earlier, here’s a packing guide. Meanwhile, I’ll be trying to survive wanderlust while stuck in one place. Something you can do no matter where you are is have a picnic. Don’t forget to pack a light lunch, some lemonade, and every occasion calls for champagne. Most importantly, don’t forget the ice-cream. You can make your own even without an ice-cream machine, and if you’re in LA, you should check out Salt & Straw. Other fun summer links are how to have the absolute best road trip ever, quick summer makeup, MuMu beach club, and summer blog post ideas. And I want pink hair.

TWO // Break free

This is “a short film about gender roles, trans, and what it’s like to have an identity that deviates from the status quo” written, produced, and starring Ruby Rose. Break free from the expectations of society and be you. Forget about being likeable. You’re wasting your likeable on the wrong people. People will try to put a label on you, but you are much more. In Vogue’s July issue, Cara Delevigne opens up about her childhood, love life, and why modeling just isn’t enough. In Elle Australia’s July issue, or rather, on Elle Australia’s July issue is Nicole Warne of Gary Pepper. “This marks the first time a digital influencer has appeared on the cover of a major Australian fashion magazine.”

THREE // Mary

“Happy Father’s Day to the best mom I know.” Claire made this video for her mother, Mary. You might want to grab a tissue box. I’m so fortunate to have two loving parents, but I know that the same cannot be said for everyone, and days like Father’s Day or Mother’s Day can be an unpleasant reminder of that. In that case, you might find comfort in this article about finding heart. Let’s lighten the mood a bit and move onto this fun I love you Dad experiment, in which people tell their dad’s they love them and record their reaction; it’s not every day a dad hears those words. For more smiles and laughs, check out these comedians on fatherhood. And finally, a note from a father about the parent he aspires to be.

Did you catch my Father’s Day post from last week?

FOUR // How to take a productive blogging hiatus

For some people, bloggers included, summer means taking a break from the computer; it means going out, traveling, and living life. Everyone needs to disconnect a little. I’ve actually posted more this month of summer than any other month yet, but hopefully your summer has seen more adventures. Even though you’re away from your computer, that doesn’t mean blogging has to come to a full stop for you. You can grow your blog offline and schedule social media, or you can simply write less. That last tip is also helpful if you just don’t like writing in general but still want to blog.

FIVE // Taylor Swift – We Are Never Ever Getting Bad Blood (Mashup) by Nigel Brian Carpio

I don’t often listen to Taylor Swift and don’t particularly love or hate her music, but I must admit that her songs are hella catchy (and also her talent is undeniable). Put two of her songs together… I can’t get it out of my head. This mashup has seen the news and was posted on YouTube but taken down due to copyright issues. I get that the mashup was using her songs, but the person who made it was also creating something of his own, so I think it kinda sucks that he’s getting copyright strikes. Just in case anything else is taken down, here are two other places he’s uploaded his mashup: (x) (x). In other Taylor Swift mashup news, if you haven’t heard Blank Space x Style, you should definitely check it out.

How has your week been?

PS: 05. 04. 03. 02. 01.

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ONE // Enjoying the in-between

Summer is the best season to lose track of time. It’s the season of perpetual weekends. Who cares what day it is? I’m surprised I even realized that today was Friday. When you’re given this much time and freedom, you’re going to want to use it. So many places to be, people to meet, projects to start. So much planning to do… Perhaps your excitement begins to wane there. The truth of the matter is that you don’t have to be excited to stay committed. But why not enjoy this moment? After all, you’re here.

TWO // 24 hours in Istanbul

It’s finally summer, when wanderlust is at its peak. Some of us are off chasing adventures, and some of us (me) are living life vicariously through the Internet. JacksGap‘s 24 Hours In… vlog series will take you away, and on his blog you can see all the behind the scenes action. His camera is rad. Another 24 hour adventure to check out is Ghost Parties‘ in Iceland, which was actually a stopover on her way to NYC–for no extra cost. Speaking of bargains, this man has figured out how to fly for free. There are still a few months left before summer break is over so it’s not too late to look for ways to get abroad.

THREE // How creating a daily schedule helps me get more done

It’s great to be a dreamer and all–it really is a beautiful thing–but you gotta wake up and get sh*t done. First of all, make sure that what you’re pursuing is your dream and not anyone else’s. It’s okay if your dream doesn’t look the same as the people you’re inspired by. Second, you have to realize that following your dreams is nothing but work. And finally it’s time to get out of bed. Try these 8 tricks to make yourself wake up earlier. Working without a professor or classmates to keep you accountable can be difficult. Nevertheless, give everything you’re capable of giving. Be confident. You can do it.

FOUR // Why you should read as often as you blog

The last Friday Favorites I posted was in January. I’ve been spending the last few days catching up on all 700+ blog posts I missed from the hectic last month of school and now I’m finally feeling inspired again. The flow of ideas is back and I couldn’t be more excited! You may have noticed that I’ve been feeling burnt out, in regards to blogging; the 52 project has become my crutch and I haven’t been posting much else. How can I inspire you if I can’t inspire myself first? Reading other blogs stimulates my creativity and reconnects me to the blogosphere. There are so many things I want to do!

FIVE // S’mores donuts

Are you a Krispy Kreme or Dunkin’ Donuts fan? I’m Krispy Kreme all the wayyy. Exactly a week ago was National Donut Day but there’s no such thing as too many donuts, so here are some more. They’re the perfect way to upgrade a plain ol’ glazed donut into a gourmet masterpiece. If you’re craving something a little more savory, try these cheddar donuts. If you find yourself in LA (I will!), here’s the ultimate LA guide to donuts. Had enough? No such thing. Try these donut crafts.

How has your week been?

PS: 04. 03. 02. 01.

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ONE // Winter is back, my dear

Whenever it’s winter, I’m always wishing that it’s summer. Whenever it’s summer, I’m always wishing that it’s winter. Right now it’s winter, and with the unrelenting wind chill, it’s difficult for me to cherish this weather, even though I know that I’ll be wishing for it when summer comes around. So let’s forget about the frostbite and remember the magic. Get cozy in stripes, neutrals, and scarves, flaunt it in cashmere and silk, get crafty by turning an old book into a new purse, and escape to Burberry backstage.

TWO // How I got my start in the creative industry

It takes courage to stray from the conventional career path into the creative industry. If that’s what you want to do, know that it’s possible, but don’t expect it to be easy. It’ll be hard work, but you can do it. There is no better time to start than now. Even high school isn’t too early (check out this interior design installation)! Find and embrace your design style, create a moodboard, play with cool gadgets, utilize Bloglovin’, come up with original content, vary your content, and break out of your creative drought. Don’t be deterred by these myths, and know that it’s okay to earn money from blogging.

THREE // Takoyaki recipe

Part two of my three part winter break was spent in Japan. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to bring food carts back with me to the States, but did you know that you can make your own takoyaki with a Dutch pancake maker (or really any pan with spherical shapes)? What that means to me is that I can make takoyaki from my dorm room! I mean, I probably shouldn’t, but I could. Some other recipes on my radar are homemade butterbeer, wild mushroom and gruyère egg baskets, huggie bear biscuits, coconut macaroons, almond salted caramels, and vanilla cake with vanilla frosting and marzipan succulent.

FOUR // On changing dreams

It’s a new year and the only thing constant is change. Have you written out your resolutions or are you set on having the worst year ever? Well, I guess that’s not totally fair. You don’t have to have resolutions to have a good year, but it doesn’t hurt to get a little organized with a desktop calendar. I myself have set 2015 blogging goals and 2015 personal mantras. Hopefully your holiday break in Brighton or the Bahamas or Iceland or wherever has gotten you refreshed, re-energized, and ready to go. To get us started on the right foot, here are six productivity tips for working at your desk.

FIVE // One less stranger

If you want to walk in the footsteps of HONY, this is your chance. Are there people you always see but never talk to? This is your chance. As a shy introvert, I know that this is easier said than done, but all it takes is a “hello!” Spread the love. Share the happiness. Do a random act of kindness. You don’t have to do something as extravagant as this hairstylist did. It can be something as simple as tipping a little more than you need to. Or even just listening. Because everyone has a story to tell.

How has your week been?

PS: 03. 02. 01.

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ONE // Setting up your bar cart

Or ya know, just have a plain ol’ party, but by myself, with my own bar so that I can drink all I want without having to share being the introvert that I am. Really, all I need is to tune out with a solo pamper evening and some Netflix. Speaking of which, have you seen the cast of Grey’s Anatomy dressed up as Orange is the New Black? Maybe that’s a big enough occasion to garner party invites, and also a perfect excuse to try out these tassel garland invitations, which would also be great for dorm deco.

TWO // How to make stress your friend

Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet? I was shown this video during my Wellness Issues Seminar at Bryn Mawr College and it has changed my perspective on stress. Of course, it’s always preferred to start off on the right foot, so get excited with a back to school party! I’ve been back at it for three weeks trying to conquer chronic procrastination, but it’s been a blur. Perhaps I should take a breather with a DIY like this back to school paint chip calendar.

THREE // Take a flask of hot chocolate along on a walk

Autumn is my absolute favorite season. So yeah school’s coming up and that sucks but you know what else is coming up? Ugly sweaters and scarves and PUMPKIN SPICE LATTES AND HALLOWEEN AND CUDDLING BECAUSE IT’S COLD AND FALL LEAVES AND HIKING IN THE BRISK AIR AND THEN AFTER THAT SNOW AND HOT COCOA AND MALLS DECORATED FOR HOLIDAYS AND FRICK SCHOOL ALL OF THIS IS WORTH IT WOWIE. The weather in Pennsylvania is unstable, switching between freezing cold and burning hot in a single day, so I’m at a loss as to what to wear. All I want is to layer up! Meanwhile I’ll content myself with building forts for cozy mornings like these.

FOUR // Medjool date and vanilla bean cafe au lait de coco

It’s hard to find time/energy to get off campus and get fancy beverages or even just a nice cup of coffee, so I’ve been on withdrawal. I swear that more coffee/tea/fancy drink related posts have been popping up ever since, such as frozen almond spiced chai, cinnamon latte, and chocolate and toasted hazelnut milk. Although Bryn Mawr College is ranked #10 for campus food, it’s not enough to sustain me. I miss having my own kitchen, my own oven, to make delicious things I find on the Internet, such as apple pie baked apples and homemade pocky. Or at least give me an Asian mart!

FIVE // Pretending to be Humans of New York

While Humans of New York photographer Brandon has been going on a world tour, a prankster was messing around back in New York. It was all in good fun, and HONY even shared it on his Facebook page, commenting “In case any of you had a strange conversation with ‘me’ lately…. don’t feel bad if you got tricked, not a bad impression, actually!” I love HONY’s ability to capture glimpses of people’s lives. Tell me your story and I’ll give you $1. On a side note, whenever someone asks me how my life is going, I get a strong urge to tell them to go read my blog.

How has your week been?

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ONE // Earl grey and chocolate tea bag biscuits

Speaking of food, how cute are these biscuits? I’ve always been a sucker for tea time–they make me feel sophisticated in ways nothing else can (because I really am not a sophisticated person haha). Other noteworthy tastes of heaven are mood boosting smoothies and boozy coconut hot fudge milkshakes, because… I’M EIGHTEEN!! (Okay not legal yet, but if I were back in China I would be)

TWO // Beijing from above, and the story of how I was detained by the police

I’ve been in Pennsylvania for approximately two weeks now and enjoying every bit of it at Bryn Mawr College (check out some snapshots of the beautiful campus on my Instagram), but this video sure does make me feel a little homesick! This is Beijing as you’ve never seen it before in all of its beauty. Or maybe I’m just craving a little 煎饼 haha. Read about Trey Ratcliff’s full experience here.

THREE // Why don’t we have an eternal summer

Immortalize your summertime memories with these cute projects, and then get your productivity on, because it’s time for school, hip hip hooray!! Having a hard time getting your butt out of bed? Check out this awesome combination alarm clock and coffee brewer. But don’t forget to give your body a break with these yoga hacks, and then give your mind a break too by hitting the reset button.

Something extra: In one perfect sentence, Amy Poehler schools a guy in what it’s like to be a woman.

FOUR // Freelance journey: noteworthy podcasts

Even though one of my favorite YouTubers, Kingsley, has been talking about his podcasts ever since he made the decision to switch social media platforms, I never knew how to go about it/get into it. Do you listen to podcasts? If not, this is a good place to start, especially if you’re interested in freelancing/blogging. If podcasts aren’t your thing but you’d still like to gain more insights about blogging, check out this interesting article commenting on the fine line between living your life for blogging and blogging while living your life.

FIVE // Buckingham Palace pirouetting guard shows off his funky dance moves

I’ve never been to the Buckingham Palace and so have never seen a Buckingham Palace guard in real life before, but they sure are aesthetically pleasing (check out my adorable iPad stylus)! Unfortunately for this particular Buckingham Palace guard, there is now a hunt to identify pirouetting ‘bearskin’ guardsman who shamed army, though imo, he was quite sensational.

How has your week been?

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