Saturday – I Sincerely, Sydney I

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Friday Favorites 1/24

January 25, 2020by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy Friday Night,

Here is your reminder that, if you haven’t already, you can enter my JORD watch GIVEAWAY! I am giving at $100 towards a JORD watch of your choice. That could cover an entire JORD watch or I also want you to know that they have amazing Apple Watch bands as well! You can enter via think link: www.jordwatches.com/g/sincerelysydblog It’s as easy as one, two, three! Enter now!

Okay, now that that’s out of the way, happy Friday to you. You know, I though that, after the craziness that was the end of last year, things would start to slow down a little work wise. The exact opposite is my life right now. Check back at the end of February, I should be back to breathing normally by then. In all reality, being busy is good and I’m not complaining! It just means that when weekend time comes, I’m taking full advantage of the two-day mental break.

Speaking of, I cannot wait to get my hair done tomorrow. I usually go about every 6-8 weeks since my hair is naturally dark and I like being blonde, but with holidays and time of the year, I haven’t been since mid-October…yikes. Glad to get that fixed and then spend the rest of the weekend getting my life back in order. What are your plans? If you find some time to take for yourself, here are some great links around the web to keep you entertained! Happy Weekend!

Seth Meyers and the Jonas Brothers Go Day Drinking – HILARIOUS!

The #DollyPartonChallenge is sweeping the internet right now – I even made one of my own. See it HERE

How Jasmine Star Went From Law School Student To Becoming An Entrepreneur’s Go-To Guide For Social Media Presence

Fashion Blogger Krystal Bick’s “A Night at the Plaza” – Amazing article and stunning photos

One of my Favorite Bloggers Mary Lawless Lee of Happily Grey Opens Her First Store In Nashville – Need to book a trip ASAP!

Wish List

Everything I need to stock up on at Ulta this weekend…

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Foundation

Bare Velvet Lip Kit Kylie Cosmetics

Full Dry Volume Blast Living Proof

Perversion Urban Decay Mascara

Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

JORD Watch Giveaway

Band of Bohemia Restaurant Review

Last Week’s Friday Favorites

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 1/17

January 18, 2020by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Hi Friends, Happy Friday!

I just had an amazing dinner and I am itching to catch up on this week’s Project Runway so I am going to make this super short and sweet. Below, I’ve posted some of my favorite links around the web this week. I hope you enjoy!

Matthew McConaughey’s mom (88) and Hugh Grant’s father (91) link up for a date night – OMG how cute and Matt’s mom is HOT!

President Barack Obama posts the cutest pictures ever for Michelle’s birthday – LOVE them!

Asking yourself this one powerful question will help you better manage self doubt

Where tp travel this year based on your zodiac sign from The Everygirl

Karlie Kloss is a class act as she responds to being a part of the Kushner family on Watch What Happens Live

Wish List

I’ve been eyeing a Gucci Crossbody

This A&F Military Parka

This mock neck fit and flare dress

I want to try this Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

This Asos workwear appropriate blouse

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

JORD Watch Giveaway

Friday Favorites 1/10

Some of my favorite lipsticks

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 1/10

January 11, 2020by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

First Friday Favorites of 2020!

That’s cause for celebration in and of itself! It was my first full week back at work since December 20th and let me tell you, it was NOT easy. I feel more tired than I have in a while, stressed again with business and I think there’s a direct correlation with working and my skin looking 10 years older than I actually am. But, I’m hopeful that after some much needed extra rest this weekend, I will be back better than ever next week.

Since I haven’t posted one of these in a while, I’ve included some additional amazing articles and videos that have surfaced the interweb over the past couple of weeks. I hope you enjoy celebrity baby news, tear-jerking proposals and videos of people falling as much as I do. Enjoy!

One of my favorite actresses of all time Cameron Diaz announced in Instagram that she and husband Benji Madden welcomed a baby girl named Raddix

So many people have banded together to aid in the tragic and horrifying fires happening in Australia right now, here is an article Krystal Bick on some relief efforts and organizations you can donate to if you are able to help. I donated $100 to the Australian Red Cross.

Ryan Seacrest falls off his chair while filming Live with Kelly and Ryan, it’s hilarious but thank god he’s okay

Leonardo DiCaprio helps save a man who fell overboard a cruise ship in the Caribbean – They’re saying it was a one in a million occurrence

This man planned the most perfect surprise EVER by hacking this screening of Sleeping Beauty with an on-screen/off-screen marriage proposal where characters in the film were altered to look like the couple – it is so cute I was crying at work watching it 5 times

How to Craft a 2020 Social Media Strategy That Cuts Through the Noise via Forbes Women

Wish List

This Camel Coatigan

These oversized Tortoise Shell Square Sunglasses

The Beachwaver Pro 1.25″ Curling Iron

This Babydoll Mini Dress

This (sort-of) Gucci Dupe Scarf

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

My 2020 Goals and 3 Tips For Setting Yours

Reflecting on 2019

Friday Favorites 12/20

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 12/20

December 21, 2019by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy Friday and Happy *almost* Holidays!

We are officially on the 5 day countdown to Christmas! Even better? I officially will not be back in the office until January 6th!!! Some work from home days and lots of PTO has me the happiest I’ve been in a while because this week was brutally busy. I’m looking forward to some major downtown, food, family and maybe a massage (or two) mixed in. Shhhhh.

What am I going to do with all this extra free time? Well if you find yourself any sort of bored over the next few days, here are some great articles I found on the internet this week. I hope you enjoy and have very happy holidays with loved ones!

Chicago Bears’ Player Kahlil Mack Pays Off 300 Layaway Accounts at Walmart in His Hometown

Old article but Jennifer Lawrence is interview by Oprah and reveals the best piece of advice she ever received was from Oprah herself

Chrissy Teigen posts the most relatable rant on Twitter about John Legend…hilarious!!

Giuliana and Bill Rancic announce the opening date for their next RPM restaurant in Chicago. I am obsessed with her!

Forbes Women article: The 2010s The Decade Women Fought Back

Wish List

This LV Dupe Makeup Case

This Mini Puffer Jacket

This Camel Coat

This Pajama Set

These Sneakers

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

Gift Guide For Him

Gift Guide For Her

Gifts Under $50

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 12/6

December 6, 2019by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy Friday, I’m Back!

Life is too short to not celebrate any chance you get and that’s exactly what I capitalized on this year for my birthday. I celebrated my 24th year on this planet not one, not two, but for four straight days. And if I’m being completely honest, I still have one more dinner this weekend. “Extra” would be a word I’d possibly toss around for the constant, busy schedule that was this week.

If you follow along my journey on Instagram (if you don’t, you should and can HERE), then you know that the reason I’ve been absent on my site is because this week I’ve literally been out every.single.night! The week started with a celebratory dinner at Etta with my mom. Etta has been on my list for SO long and it definitely did not disappoint. I will write a more in-depth review soon. On Tuesday, I heard the Jonas Brothers were coming to town, so I dragged my mom to AllState Arena to row 4 on the floor and we danced the entire night away. Wednesday was the monthly Wine Night at one of our favorite local restaurants. The finale, my actual birthday, was yesterday (Thursday 12/5) and I ended my crazy week with PTO from work, a 3-hour spa day and a fabulous dinner at the Princess Café.

This week has been magical and although some people have given me a hard time for celebrating so much, I really don’t mind because I’ve had a blast. Maybe I encouraged you to celebrate some more for your next birthday and for that alone, it was worth it. But, it is time to get back to regularly scheduled programming, which starts with the weekly Friday Favorites. Some of the best articles and videos I found on the internet are below. I hope you enjoy and have a wonderful weekend!

Art Basel is happening right now in Miami, I’ve had fun following along with some of my fave celebs on their social accounts!

Loved this Forbes Women article, which is a letter to the fashion industry encouraging them to stop treating plus-sized women like second-class citizens

The most hilariously awkward interview Ellen had with Dakota Johnson, cringe worthy but also can’t stop watching

One of my favorite actresses Emma Stone and SNL writer Dave McCary are engaged, and she looks so happy!!!!

Chicago-based fashion, motherhood and travel blogger Ceta Walters opens up about her breast cancer diagnosis and is so raw, brave and inspiring. Truly a warrior and I am praying for her and her family

Wish List

This Tory Burch Green Gemini Link Tote

Skyline Etched Whiskey Glasses

The famous Amazon Slippers

The famous Amazon coat

Love the color of this green Target sweater

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

Friday Favorites 11/22

Starbucks Holiday Drinks

Rent the Runway Review

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 11/15

November 16, 2019by Sydney Thompson1 Comment

Happy Friday Friends!

I hope you all had the best week! From dinners to meetings and events, mine was quite the whirlwind. One of the highlights…getting to meet Clay from Bachelor in Paradise last night at the Hubbard Inn grand re-opening party. He was so nice and I even got to snag a picture with him!

This is the time of year that’s the busiest, so it’s hard to make certain things a priority even if it’s something we love. In the midst of all the holiday celebrations ahead, it is still my mission to really get back into posting articles here more often and making them as relevant as possible. I value you so much and value your opinion. Please always stay in touch with me and let me know what you’d like to see more of. For the time being, I have compiled some of the cutest, tear-jerking articles that were on the internet this week. I guess I was just feeling a little more sentimental than usual. If you find yourself looking for entertainment this weekend, start with this list!

This week’s Wish List is also holiday party themed as I know so many people are shopping for the perfect outfits right now. I hope you enjoy and have a great weekend!

Alex Trebek gets emotional when contestant answers with “What is we love you Alex”

John Legend named People’s Sexiest Man Alive

Kelly Clarkson’s kids adorably interview their hero Jason Momoa about Aquaman

How Success Can Come From Learning What You’re Terrible At

Apply to earn $1,000 from watching Christmas Hallmark movies

Wish List

Holiday outfit edition

Michael Kors sequin one shoulder jumpsuit

Halogen x Atlantic-Pacific tulle layered skirt

Kohls Vera Wang sequin top

Macy’s faux-wrap midi dress

Spanx faux leather leggings

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

How Conspicuous Consumption Helps The Economy

Last Week’s Friday Favorites 11/8

Fashionable Matching Sets

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 11/8

November 8, 2019by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy Friday!

I am so happy we are at the weekend! This week, I’ve been inundated with annual planning work and 2020 preparation for my clients. It’s just that time of the year. Thinking about planning for 2020 kind of gives me chills. Where has the time gone?

It is also officially Winter here in Chicago. What was once an enjoyable commute to my office in the Summer has now become my worst nightmare during these cooler, more harsh months. I anticipate a lot fo Lyft receipts coming my way soon. And more Winter coats. Basically, just goodbye to all my money.

Monday night I attended the launch event of the Chicago Blogger Union chapter! I’m sort of a nerd in that I absolutely LOVE going to networking events and meeting new people. I always make the rule for myself to talk to at least three new people each time I attend an event. It sets a realistic objective and gives the event more purpose. My enneagram Type 3 really came out in that sentence lol.

The rest of the week was pretty chill and I even got a night to catch up on my Bravo shows while hanging at home. That never happens. Any RHOC watchers out there, gooooooodbye Tamara!!! This weekend will probably be spent getting my life together and organized because next week we’re back to crazy! What are you up to this weekend? If you find yourself lurking the web, here are some great videos and articles you HAVE to check out!

This adorable Beluga plays catch with a couple of guys cruising by in a boat!

Met Gala theme and costume exhibition announced and I am LIVING for it

Ellen and Nature Valley give thanks to California first responders by surprising them with $250K

New Starbucks holidays cups were released this week, I like the one with the big block letters

If you’re looking for a great and easy Fall recipe, Half Baked Harvest shows off her Coq au Vin Chicken Meatballs with butter mashed potatoes YUM

John Legend gets wine tipsy and performs on stage at Universal Studios

Forbes Women article on What Successful Women Learned About Creating A Career You Love

Wish List

Halogen x Atlantic-Pacific Velvet PaperBag Waist Pants

Polka Dot Tights

H&M Halterneck Bodysuit

Colorful Faux Fur Coat

Topshop Tie Neck Dobby Blouse

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

Last Week’s Friday Favorites 11/1

RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream Review

24-Hour Seattle Travel Guide

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 11/1

November 1, 2019by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy November!

I cannot believe we only have two months of this year left…Where did 2019 go?!

This weekend, I am staying in the city watching a co-workers house and kitty while she’s out of town. I barely ever get to stay downtown, so I plan on fully taking advantage of this situation. I have dinner plans tonight with a couple friends at a place I’ve never been to before and then tomorrow I am participating in the Cliquish Faces of Content Tour and may stop by the new Uncommon James location in the West Loop. Who knows where else the weekend might take me, but if you follow me on Instagram, you can follow along on my adventures.

If you’re not up to speed on your current events this week, here are some great articles to read this weekend. My Wish List this week is entirely made up of new jeans because I am in serious need of a Fall jean haul. Hope you have a great weekend!

Chance the Rapper – a fellow Chicagoan – shows support for the Chicago Teachers Union while hosting and performing on SNL

LeBron James sent food trucks to the first responders fighting the fires in LA

Kanye West and James Corden do Carpool Karaoke on a plane

Democratic Presidential Candidate Elizabeth Warren organizes a campaign and contest that is giving someone a chance to have a drink with her after so many people said this is something they’d love to be able to do

Wit and Delight blog post on How To Compliment Someone Without Mentioning Their Looks

Caulipower Founder Gail Becker Shares Advice For Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs

Wish List

Jeans, jeans, jeans – I need some new ones ASAP

Good American Good Legs Blue265 Jeans

DL1961 Farrow Ankle High Rise Skinny Jeans

Frame Le High Skinny Jeans

Express High Waisted Denim Perfect Wide Waistband

Abercrombie Ultra High Rise Ankle Jeans With Raw Hem

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

Happy Birthday, Mom

Last Week’s Friday Favorites 10/25

The Only Company I Buy Earrings From

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 10/25

October 26, 2019by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy Friday Friends,

For the past week, I’ve been pretty out of commission. With the season change, came the inevitable sickness. It’s out there and it’s sinister this year, so beware! But just as I posted in my Instagram caption on Monday’s post, “almost everything will work again if you just unplug it for a few minutes. Even you.” No statement resonated with me more than this. As a woman always on the go, it was a hard pill to swallow, but I learned the importance to taking a step back and taking a breather, otherwise your body will take it for you and it’ll usually come at a very inconvenient time.

Although being sick wasn’t ideal, it allowed me to rest and heal for a second, something I hadn’t taken time for in a while. Now, I am feeling refreshed, renewed and inspired to create new content for you. Creative juices are flowing and next week we are back to regularly scheduled programming. I have some exciting ideas that I’m looking forward to executing. For now though, please enjoy this weekend reading roundup of the best articles I found on the internet this week. I hope you enjoy and come back next week to see what I have in store for you!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock this week, I’m sure you heard Selena Gomez released new music. Her new music video for Look At Her Now was shot completely on the new iPhone

10 Steps You Can Take To Define and Achieve Your Goals

McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A and Popeyes – The Chicken Sandwich War is Far From Over

My fashion icon and blogger OG Blair Eadie releases her NYC collection with the Nordstrom team in celebration of the new Nordstrom flagship in Manhattan

Jennifer Lopez and A-Rod donate a year’s worth of food to Tennessee school

Wish List

The cooler temps have been sweeping through the windy city this past week, and as a result, I’ve been living in my gray teddy-like, sweater coat. This week’s Wish List is a roundup of some others I’ve been eyeing online lately!

SHEIN Longline Teddy Coat

Kohl’s Nine West Black Teddy Coat

ASOS Longline Teddy Coat with Oversized Pockets in Beige

ASOS Light Gray Tall Textured Slim Sweater Coat

Revolve Red Longline Caron Coat – omg this is a dream!!!

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI

Last Week’s Friday Favorites 10/18

One of the Best Dress Silhouettes

Boycott Boring Work Clothes

Sincerely,

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Friday Favorites 10/18

October 18, 2019by Sydney ThompsonLeave a Comment

Happy Friday Peeps!

It’s finally the weekend! I don’t know about you, but I feel like this week totally flew by. Unfortunately, I think the nonstop running around that’s been going on for a couple weeks now is finally catching up to me. My throat feels like it’s on fire and I feel like I could fall asleep at any second. My insides are warm but I am currently sitting at my desk with a jacket on because I’m freezing. I think I caught it…whatever it is I don’t know but it is coming. Ugh! I HATE being sick.

But, in good ole Sydney fashion, I have a jammed day with work, dinner in the city and then a Blackhawks game tonight, so sorry germs but ain’t nobody got time for you today. I hope you all have a nice relaxing weekend. If you find yourself looking for some entertainment, here are some fun articles, videos and trendy pieces I found on the internet this week. Enjoy!

Jennifer Aniston joins Instagram this week!! She absolutely KILLED it with her first post and already has over 13MM followers.

The first all-female spacewalk is happening right now

A legit scientific equation proves that Bella Hadid is the most beautiful woman in the world

Lady Gaga falls off stage while dancing with a fan, luckily they are both okay…

BEST.VIDEO.EVER Charlie Puth gets Quizzed by Courtney Cox on “Friends” and cries when she gives him his prize for crushing it

Wish List

Guess Snakeskin Boots

Recently realized that I don’t own a pair of gray pants and I don’t know why, Express Gray Pants

Ralph Lauren Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater

Bow Print Sheer Tights

Pink Quilted Crossbody Bag

On Sincerely-Sydney ICYMI