20 Questions

I lived in a tiny town in South Dakota for a year while completing my nursing degree. Upon acceptance into the accelerated nursing program at South Dakota State University, I was really not enthusiastic about the idea of moving to Aberdeen, South Dakota. However, the program at SDSU was very highly rated and the cost was fantastic. Next thing I knew, I was (somewhat begrudgingly) on my way to the Great Plains. I told myself “It’s only 11 months…you can do it.” Looking back, I would not change my experience for the world. I met the most amazing people and really got out of my comfort zone. I did not know a soul in Aberdeen when I arrived, but I branched out and succeeded. Although I do not miss -37 degree (wind chill -59 degree) weather, I would very happily go back to SD.

I was a principal dancer in a semi-professional ballet company. I started dancing when I was 3 and virtually never stopped until I went to college. I danced every style under the sun. Some of my most cherished memories come from being on stage performing.

I met my husband on a blind date. My husband was a rugby player at Washington State University (WSU). A mutual friend who was also on the rugby team set us up and we have been together ever since. I will never forget our first date: We went to dinner but we were laughing and talking so much that we actually forgot to eat the food that was in front of us. Our waitress thought something was wrong! We boxed up our leftovers and the rest was history.

I love a good adrenaline rush. I have always liked trying new things. I have been bungee jumping, I have white-water rafted and zip-lined multiple times, and I am always up for a crazy roller coaster! I love the rush you get and the stories you have to tell after these experiences.

I am pretty shy and introverted until you really get to know me. I do not tend to let people in easily, and I definitely need my space at times. Unfortunately, being so reserved (and my chronic RBF) has made me come off as intimidating at times (I’m not intimidating…trust me!!)

I am super close to my parents. My mom is easily my best friend and I am so thankful for her and for the relationship we have. My parents are my biggest supporters…always have been; always will be!

I was in a sorority at WSU! GO COUGS! Due to my shyness I never thought going Greek was going to be right for me, but I was definitely wrong. My life would be so different if I hadn’t joined my house. I never would have been matched up with my hubby and I never would have met the girls I now call my sisters and life-long friends. Any guesses as to what house?

I LOVE HALLOWEEN. Halloween will always be my favorite holiday. My favorite movie to this day is Tim Burton’s A Nightmare Before Christmas! As a kid I loved putting together costumes and accessories, and experimenting with makeup. Now that I am an adult, I still love handing out candy, dressing up and decorating. Luckily, I have met my match in Jake who is equally obsessed with Halloween!

I am interested in SFX makeup. SFX is special effects makeup. I fell in love with SFX after watching shows like FaceOff and YouTubers like @mykie create amazing creatures. I now have my own SFX kit and I love to play around with new concepts and designs. Keep a look out in October for simple tutorials, or maybe even sooner!

The UK would be my dream vacation. I have always wanted to go to Ireland and Scotland. I have a bucket list of places I want to go, but some place with a lot of history, especially history I can link to my own personal upbringing would be such an experience! Plus add in a pub? I’m sold!

Favorite Food. This one is so tough–I rarely discriminate against food, but I think a good burger and fries is one of the best things you can eat! Simple but SO delicious. One of my favorite places in the Raleigh area is Bad Daddy’s. Their white truffle fry sauce is to die for…just don’t count the calories!

I’m 5’2″. Where my shorties at?

I am very patriotic. I have always loved America (duh), but being an Army wife has given me such a different perspective. I am so unbelievably proud of my husband. It makes me so emotional to even think about him and those who sacrifice themselves for us every day.

I am deathly allergic to shrimp and lobster. No Surf –N-Turf for me! Luckily, I have never been a big fan of seafood beyond a Mickey D’s Filet O’ Fish or can of tuna.

Instagrams I’m currently crushing on. Currently I am loving @tezza. Her book Insta Style is such an inspiration. She has such an eye for photography and fashion, plus I am a little jealous of all the places she travels! I’m also a big fan of @bresheppard ‘s everyday easy laid-back style and @laurawgodfrey because she makes affordable fashion so cute! For make-up inspiration I turn to @tannermman who is another North Carolina blogger.

I’m not a big drinker! I very rarely drink alcohol, but when I do I always go with vodka, rum, or a hard cider (but would rather have a Shirley Temple)! I am also not a coffee drinker and rarely drink hot drinks (I’m weird, right!?) You can almost bet on it that I will choose an iced drink over a hot one, even if it’s snowing out. If I have to pick a Starbucks drink I will usually go with a Chai Frappe or latte, or a Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher.

I have never dyed my hair. Not even a highlight has touched this head! Growing up I hated being a natural red-head, but now I embrace my strawberry-blonde locks and would not change my color for the world.

I have very eclectic music taste. If you were to look in my music library you would be met with a mix of alternative, top 40, musical soundtracks, rock, and everything in between! I love music for the lyrics and the way they make me feel. Because of dance, music was the way I expressed myself. I will always have a connection to it.

I did musical theater. Yes. I was a drama kid. I was actually nominated for a 5^th Avenue Theater Award which is a state wide award ceremony, like the Tony’s, but for high school kids. I was nominated for the role Babette, the feather duster in Beauty and the Beast as “Best Supporting Female.” I did not win, but it was pretty cool to be recognized as one of the top 5 in the state of Washington!

I love LOVE dogs. My dream job would be to own a dog sanctuary and just love and snuggle pups all day. I would love to give every dog the love they deserve. I am very passionate about rescuing and adopting dogs. I love my dog Tilly more than words can say. I treat her as if she was my own child. She was adopted from our local animal shelter at 9 weeks old after being rescued from a hoarding situation. I know once we have a larger home we will be getting more fur-babies.

I hope this give you a little more insight about who I am!

What else would you like to know?

XOXO, Cait B.

Snake Print

Fashion

So Many 80’s and 90’s trends are coming back into style, and I cannot be happier! One of my favorite trends that does not seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, is faux snake skin! So many brands are using this print and I am so in love! It is right up there with leopard and is easily becoming a closet staple. I am also really liking the snake skin fad because lately it can be found in a black/white/gray or a tan/brown color pallets, making it a perfect neutral or accent. I have compiled my favorite faux snake skin items from some of my favorite boutiques below!

These are just some of the adorable snake print items from these awesome boutiques! Be sure to click on the name of the boutique below to see all their snake print goodies!

Impressions Online Boutique Pink Lily Boutique Olive+Pepper VICI Dolls

Josie’s Boutique DSW Amazon

‘You have a PIZZA my heart’

Lifestyle

Is it just me or did January last for about a year? Finally, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Jake and I generally keep things pretty low key on V-Day: we typically exchange cards, I usually get some beautiful flowers, and we usually go out to dinner. Neither of us are very materialistic and we prefer to celebrate the day by doing something together rather than exchanging extravagant gifts. The only “excessive” Valentine’s Day we have had was the year we went to Disneyland before Jake went to basic training (again), and that was more because the dates happened to line up! With Valentine’s Day being on Thursday this year, we are planning to keep it pretty mellow. Whether you are looking for a romantic night in, or looking for a more romantic night without spending too much money, I have one of our go-to date-night-in meals!

Jake and I tend to make dinner together pretty much every night. If you are like us, you will want to make your Valentine’s dinner a little more special. You can do this in one of two ways: You could decide to make a more high-end dinner and select filet mignon, lobster or other aphrodisiacs along with rich side dishes. You can light candles and set mood music….if that’s your thing. To be honest, that kind of dining is not up our alley. If we wanted high-end, we would go out! The other option is to make a meal together that is more interactive! One of our favorites is homemade pizza. Your date can start at the grocery store where you pick out your sauces and toppings for your pizzas. You can also purchase pre-made dough or make your own (click here to see the recipe we use.) Once you are home you can get to cooking. It can be so much fun to clear off your counter and cover it with flour as you roll out your dough. We have been known to try to toss ours only to have it fall on the floor (maybe make some extra dough). A little bit of mess makes it more fun and light-hearted in my opinion! Instead of making individual pizzas you can also make one pizza together. Take turns adding toppings and making it your own. While your pizza is in the oven you can toss together a quick Caesar salad and open a bottle of wine, then Bon Appetite! This is a fun and interactive way to spend time together on Valentine’s Day.

For one of our anniversaries we went to the Melting Pot and had the best time. The Melting Pot can definitely be a little pricey, but don’t fret…you can still have a cozy fondue night in! All you need is a slow cooker. At the grocery store they do have fondue mix that you can purchase, or you can make it from scratch! Pinterest has so many great savory and sweet fondue recipes to try! If you are in a time crunch and don’t have the time to make your own, you can also purchase a variety of chocolate chips or chocolate melting disks. Milk, Dark, White and Butterscotch, and Peanut Butter chips will do the trick! You will need a clean Mason jar for each flavor (you can find these at craft and grocery stores if you do not have any on hand). Start by filling your slow cooker up with just enough water to cover the jars about half way. Fill your jars about 3/4 of the way with your chocolate chips (or chips of choice) then place jars in water. Let them start to melt on low heat while you stir occasionally. It will take about 30 minutes for them to melt completely. Once they are melted turn off your slow cooker but leave the jars in the water to keep them warm. That its! Gather up your dippers (bite size fruit, marshmallows, mini doughnut holes, brownie bites, cookies, Rice Krispy Treats, etc.) and have a ball dipping and feeding each other! Make sure to purchase fondue forks if you do not already have them, or you can use long bamboo skewers.

If you’re not into fondue, your dessert can really be anything you want it to be! There can be something so romantic about a delicious chocolate cake or light and fluffy mousse. Break out the whipped cream and maraschino cherries and everyone is going to be happy!

What are planning to do for Valentine’s Day? Big plans or laying low? What kind of Valentine’s Day traditions do you and your honey have?

XOXO, Cait B.

Galentine’s Day 2019

Lifestyle

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and so is Galentine’s Day! For those of you who are out of the loop, Galentine’s Day originated on Amy Poehler’s TV comedy Parks and Rec. It falls on February 13th and celebrates the platonic love that girlfriends share. As Amy’s character Leslie says on the show, “Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies. It’s like Lilith Fair, minus the angst. Plus frittatas.” Since then, Galentine’s Day has been adopted by many and we cannot thank Leslie Knope (and the genius of Amy Poehler) enough!

As Galentine’s Day approaches you may be wondering what you should do with your gal pals. I have some ideas for things to do and how to celebrate your besties with some adorable gifts!

Girl-Time Ideas:

Brunch and Bubbly: You can always go traditional and grab breakfast with your girls. Add in some mimosas or a Bloody Mary or two and get the party started!

Spa Night: You can have a spa weekend with your ladies or simply make a date for manicures and pedicures. You could also stay in for a spa night at home; just break out the peel-off masks, nail polish, and N’SYNC CDs and have yourself an old fashioned girls night.

Dress Up & Dine Out: There is something so fun about dressing up and going out to a nice restaurant with your friends. Indulge in amazing food, dessert and great conversation!

Movie Marathon: Another great one if you are watching your budget! Order some pizza or take-out and stay in with your girls to watch all the chick-flicks your boyfriends or hubbies detest!

Take a Class or Participate in an Activity: Attend a “corks and canvas” painting class or a group yoga class with your ladies. Hit up happy hour afterward for apps and cocktails! Some of my girlfriends and I loved going to hockey games together back in Seattle. (There are usually great deals for classes on Groupon!)

Gifts for your Girlies:

Fuzzy Socks or Slippers: Let your lady friends kick their feet up in some new cozy socks or slippers. I personally cannot have enough of either of these!

Sugar Scrub: Sugar scrubs are a great way to pamper your friends. You can buy these at the store or make you own. Pinterest has a load of sugar scrub recipes that are simple (and inexpensive) to make.

Valentine’s Day Clothing: Valentine’s Day shirts always put everyone in the holiday spirit, plus who doesn’t love pink and red!? The Pink Lily Boutique has an adorable Valentine’s Day collection; I’ve definitely already bought mine! Target also always has cute tops for every holiday.

Initial Necklaces: These necklaces are so on trend right now AND they have a personal touch! You can find affordable versions of these on Amazon.

Cute Mug or Wine Glass: There is always a wine-o or coffee lover in every group of friends. A cute mug or decorative wine glass filled with candies or a mini bottle is always a cute gift!

Makeup Gift Set: Perfect for your glam girlfriend. Ulta is a great place to look for pre-made giftsets or you can pick and choose mini items and make your own! I’m currently crushing on the TooFaced Sugar Cookie Purse Palette.

Best Friend Jewelry: If you are wanting to do something special for your bestie, your person, or your (other) soulmate, look into best friend jewelry. Alex and Ani has an adorable best friend charm bracelet currently on sale for $28–that is 50% off so snag it while you can! I also love Dogeared necklaces; they have su

Now you are all set to celebrate your love for all of your closest gal pals. I hope this post gives you some ideas for your Galentine’s Day or inspires you to begin celebrating this special day. Do you have any traditions with your girlfriends for Galentine’s Day? Have you ever celebrated it or do you plan to this year?

XOXO, Cait B.

Bills, Bank Accounts and Budgets

Lifestyle

“Adulting” can be really hard. It seems that as a kid, being an adult is what you are working for. You imagine living in a beautiful house, driving to your dream job in your luxury car, without a care in the world about your income, bills, or 401Ks. It’s quite blissful until you are rudely thrust into reality. Suddenly you find yourself driving to your studio apartment in the used car your parents bought you in high school. You have your diploma in one hand, miss-matched socks on your feet, and not a clue what to do next.

After I graduated from college with my nursing degree, I moved directly to a new state to join my then fiancé/now husband. I was lucky enough to have a good job lined up, but I had never really had to worry about a budget or bills. I have always been very frugal and conscientious about spending money, but I never had to worry about having enough to pay the ‘big bills’. I have fantastic parents (who are great at managing their money) who handled the ‘big bills’ while I was getting my education. This was great when I was in school because I did not have to worry about having money for rent, utilities, car insurance or even my cellphone bill. I took care of all incidentals, clothes, and food. You might say I was a little spoiled, but when I was launched into the ‘real world’ it was a tough learning curve. I had SO many questions. I did have great resources in my parents and husband, but like anything, you have to figure out what works best for you. I have compiled a list of what I do to organize my bills and make sure I pay them on time.

Know how much money you will have and when you will get more. Obviously, when it comes to paying bills, you need to have money. Most banks have apps now that allow you to keep track of your bank account on the go. My bank’s app lets me see both my checking and savings accounts, as well as what is due on my credit card. It will also let me transfer money within the app and deposit money into my accounts. I like how visual this app is; it clearly displays how much I have in my accounts at any one time. I like to plan ahead and know what’s coming in all aspects of my life, this is the same with money. I get paid biweekly, on Fridays. Although, this seems like an obvious thing to remember, some weeks run together. In order to make this easier on my brain, I went into the calendar on my iPhone and added in “payday” events biweekly to easily keep track. The last thing I do to be realistic about what is in my bank account, is transfer money as soon as I have it. My paycheck is directly deposited into my checking account, but I have a savings account as well as a specific savings account for bills. As soon as I get paid I transfer a set amount into my both of my savings accounts, this way I know it is there for when I need to pay my bills, and that I cannot touch it as it is not linked to my debit or credit card. At this time I also pay off or put a payment towards my credit card bill- this helps to build credit, too. Having a strategy for my money makes me feel more secure and makes my life less stressful. I will say, I rarely waiver from the amounts of money that I take out per paycheck for my savings and my ‘bill-savings’ but some months you need to be flexible. For example, I knew last month (December) I would be spending

Okay. Whew. Now that you have money and know when you will get paid you can utilize other options to organize your payments!

Make a large monthly calendar that you can make changes to. I bought a large cork-board from Walmart for about $8 and a pack of regular sized post-it notes and mini post-it notes in a variety of colors. Using the standard size post-it notes, I wrote a number 1-31 in the upper right corner. These are your calendar days. Then I used one color of the mini post-it notes and wrote one day of the week on each. Once my days of the weeks and days were arranged on the board, depending on the month, I was ready to start

Found this dry erase wall calendar at Target for $3!

adding in the important stuff. I looked forward into my calendar to see when my bills were due. Although some bills, like our phone bill is always due on the same day, other bills fluctuate. Looking them up helps me be proactive and plan my month. I use different color sticky notes for different things. For example, green is used for bills that are NOT automatically paid; pink is used for bills that ARE automatically paid, and blue post-it notes are used for events. I include events on my calendar because usually money will have to be set aside for these occasions. I am a visual person, so this big monthly calendar is helpful for me to plan and see what is coming. That said, you do have to be committed to keep it up to date!

I also use weekly planners, lists and sticky-notes to stay organized. It is very satisfying to be able to cross something off of your list or to take down a sticky note you have completed. The last thing I really utilize is the “reminder app” which is standard on the iPhone. I put in running alerts for bills. For example, each month on the 30th, I get a reminder to pay rent on the 1st. This reminder will stay there until I mark it as completed. Just another thing that makes me more accountable.

The last thing I do to organize my bills, is to use a small filing system. I have a variety of sections that help keep not only my bills and payments organized, but also other aspects of my life. I go through this annually and clean it out. I do not do this in January, rather I wait after we have filed our taxes in March.

I know it seems like a lot, and honestly, it might be overkill but this is what has worked for me. I have always been someone who abides by due dates (turning in anything late always made me feel guilty and gave me heart palpitations) so knowing I am doing everything in my power to make sure I stay on track, is comforting to me. If you struggle paying your bills on time, I would suggest starting off with maybe one or two of these methods and see what happens!

“Don’t worry, kids. Being an adult is mostly just Googling how to do stuff.”

I hope this post helps you organize your bills and payments a little better. Let me know if you add any of these tips and tricks into your daily routines. What other ways have you organized your life?

XOXO, Cait B.

The Bedazzled B.

fashion. beauty. life.

young adult

20 Questions

Snake Print

‘You have a PIZZA my heart’

Galentine’s Day 2019

Bills, Bank Accounts and Budgets