Currently || April Edition

It's April and currently it's snowing.  That's depressing...but here's what else is currently going on in my life this month.

Drinking-
Water.  And lots of it.  I'm trying to really work on my water intake.  Recently it seems I've come across several articles where people are trying to drink half their body weight in ounces of water.  What does it do?  Cleanses your body, makes you feel better and could cause you to lose a few pounds.  Of course it's hard to go from drinking a normal amount of water to 50+ ounces a day.  So I've just been giving myself the daily challenge of filling up my Swell water bottle so many times during the work day.  Side effects include frequent trips to the restroom.

Lusting-
This GORGEOUS dress from BCBG Max Azaria.  Omg this dress is everything.  I tried it on while I was on vacation in Florida and I can't get it out of my head.  I've been watching it for when it goes on sale to snatch up...and attempting to justify the purchase by thinking of possible events I could wear it.

Listening-
Well Nick Jonas just revealed the album name and track listings for his upcoming album "Last Year Was Complicated."  Along with that the first single "Close" was released featuring Tove Lo so I've bene listening to that repeat.  In addition, I've been traveling a lot recently so my Zen playlist has gotten a lot of air time.  This playlist is filled with some songs with great lyrics that I can either tune out and multitask while on flights or just veg out and really have a chance to reflect.  Here's what my zen playlist looks like right now...



Wearing-
As the weather starts getting warmer I've started busting out my spring/summer shoes.  One of my favorites are my go-to Toms booties and a new addition to the shoe family are my Vince Camuto wedges.  Both are so comfy and I've worn them on tour, at conferences and through airports.  They get my seal of comfort approval.

Booties from Toms & can still be found online here

Reading-
I've really been on a self-help/memoir kick recently.  I enjoy reading about the experiences of others and learning from them.  Here are a few that I've read recently or am in the middle of reading right now:
What Remains by Carole Radziwill
Stronger Looks Better Naked by Khloe Kardashian
Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling

What are you currently up to this month?  Take the time to jot it down and post it on your blog or in the comments below :)

On the Road || Remember the Alamo

This past weekend felt more like mini vacation than a business trip.  Friday I departed Cleveland for Memphis.  It was a long day going straight from the office and airport hopping until landing in Memphis late Friday night.  A quick night's sleep and it was off for a music store appearance in Tennessee.  It was a quick morning and afternoon then it was back to the airport to head to San Antonio.  Luckily we'd be in San Antonio for more than 24 hours, which means some time to explore!

We arrived in San Antonio at a reasonable hour Saturday night so I had the chance to get a good night's rest.  Then it was time to get up bright and early to get in some time to explore the area.  Luckily my hotel was very close to the Alamo, so I started my Sunday morning by taking a walk down to see the historic structure.  I snapped a few pictures of the Alamo and few other sculptures and landmarks around it.

Then it was time to explore the Riverwalk.  The last time we were in San Antonio was for the holiday tour, which means there really isn't a ton of time to really take in some of the sights and sounds of the city we're in.  I didn't want to waste this trip, so I jogged the Riverwalk stopping occasionally to snap some pictures of some unique sculptures, works of art or just the wonderment of nature.  It was the perfect way to see such a big part of San Antonio while getting in a workout.

It was a gorgeous day and the pool at the hotel just happened to be on the same floor as my room.  It was meant to be.  So after my run, I cooled off poolside with my Starbucks Americano.  Now this really felt like a vacation.  Next was brunch with John and Jim while we enjoyed the great food San Antonio had to offer.  And I can't forget about work and why we were actually here.  Roland invited Jim to stand at the Roland booth at the Music Teachers National Association Conference.  Jim had the opportunity to meet music teachers and some students from across the country both Sunday and Monday.  It was really cool to make some connections and tap into this group that is really important to the music business.  Plus we can connect with teachers and in turn their students to hopefully inspire them to continue their piano education and more importantly their music education.

Overall it was a great "work trip."  I met so many wonderful people in both Memphis and San Antonio.  San Antonio was so fun to explore and I think it would be a great long weekend destination to return to in the future.  Now it's back to the office and hopefully the blue skies and sunshine will follow me back to the CLE!

xoxo,
B.

What I've Been Up To || West Palm Beach

I've been a little MIA on the blogosphere lately, mostly because I was soaking up the sun in West Palm Beach with my family.  My office was a lounge chair poolside in the blue skies and sun.  It was nice to get out of Cleveland for a week and spend time with my family.  Take a look at some of the fantastic places we frequented during our week vacation...

  

It was a great trip filled with a lot of laughs, some great meals and memories to last until the next Deppas family vacation.

xoxo,
B.

Dear B || How to Pack for a Beach Vacay

I'm gearing up to spend an amazing week in Florida with my family.  I can't remember the last time that JUST the 5 of us were on vacation together.  I'm so looking forward to taking a break from the 216.  Plus I cannot wait to get 7 days worth of solid Vitamin D.  Anyway, as an avid traveler I've really perfected the art of packing whether it be for work or pleasure.  So I decided to let you in on my packing secrets...

You'll Need...

• Your Suitcase
• Carry On Bag
• Killer Playlist
• A Buddy (lucky for me A agreed to sit in on my packing process)
• Mirrors (preferably full length)

1.  Press play on that playlist and let the fashion show begin.  I usually start by trying a few different outfit possibilities to start building a foundation or color palette I can work with.  Then I can add different pieces that will mix and match with each other.  This part is great to have a buddy so they can share their opinions on what works well and what doesn't.

2.  Find shoes that go with every outfit.  I stick to neutrals or blacks.  It just makes everything easier.  I usually bring 2 pairs of wedges or heels, a pair of gym shoes, a pair of flip flops for the pool/beach and another pair of nicer flip flops to wear at night.

3.  As you narrow down your day or night outfits now move to any workout clothes, pajamas, swimwear or loungewear items you'd like to bring and place them in their own pile.

4.  Let these piles sit for a day or so outside of your suitcase.  As you let your choices sit in your mind, you'll either feel confident about your decisions, feel like you've packed too much or not enough.  Usually at this point I end up pulling an item or 2 out of my piles realizing that I don't need that many choices.

5.  Go back to your piles and think about how many outfits or pieces you really need...I'm going to be gone for 7 days and here's what I'm bringing

• 1 pair of jean capri pants
• 1 pair of leggings
• 4 tops
• 2 dresses
• 1 skirt
• 2 workout tops & pants
• 4 pairs of shoes
• 2 swimsuits
• pajamas
• loungewear outfit

Everything is all packed away with plenty of room to spare to add some new additions from the trip :)

6.  Begin packing your suitcase with shoes on the bottom and try to fold or roll your clothes so you can make the most of your space.  Then start adding in those other essential items you'll need.

7.  Then it's on to accessories.  When traveling I like to bring a simple set of gold and silver jewelry then a few nicer things to add on dressier occasions.  I lay out these pieces and have my jewelry case ready to go.  This is just in case I wear something in the days leading up to my departure.

I have a few things for gold, silver and to mix & match. I bring a small pouch for earrings and another for rings. An easy way to keep things organized.

8.  I also prep my toiletries.  I refill any medications, hair products or lotions so I'm sure I'm prepared.  Then I pack any "extra" items I have for travel: razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, hair accesories etc.

I love this organizer from L.L. Bean.  There's a spot for everything!  And you can get it monogrammed with your name or initials if your heart desires

9.  Lastly is the makeup and hair styling tools.  I wait to pack these until the day I leave so I can use them and throw them right into my toiletry bag. It's easy and I know I'm not forgetting anything.

10.  DON'T STRESS!  The worst thing that could happen is you forgot something.  Luckily there are drug stores and Targets pretty much everywhere so you can always buy what you may have left behind.

I hope my packing ritual helps you tackle what can be a mundane or stressful project, in a more organized and fun way.  And always ask your buddy if you really need that extra pair of shoes or one more top.  They'll be honest with you and help you keep that weight down on your suitcase.  Just think the lower the starting weight, the more you can buy! :)

xoxo,
B.

If there's something you want me to feature on the blog or give a try leave your questions or suggestions in the comments below :)

What I've Been Up To || Weekend in Wichita

Hello readers!  Yes, it's been a few days since I last posted but that's because this past weekend was all about some QT with my BFF (that's Quality Time with my Best Friend Forever).  I traveled for work last week with stops in Oklahoma City & Hutchinson, Kansas.  After doing some Google Mapping, I realized I'd only be about 51 minutes from my best friend C who lives in Wichita, Kansas.
I had the brilliant idea that instead of flying back to CLE on Friday, I'd spend the weekend in Wichita with C and her bf K.  C & K were great hosts and showed me a great time in Wichita.  We even got to celebrate St. Patrick's Day a little bit early :)  Here are some pictures & GIFs from the amazing weekend...

Getting in the St. Patrick's Day Spirit with Green Beer

They say every (fake) brunette needs a (fake) blonde best friend

C, I love you and thanks for having me!  I can't wait until our next adventure in the next city.

Sending you lots of love <3

xoxo,
B.

Hustle || Rise Up

This week it's all about rising up and taking advantage of every opportunity that presents itself.

Get out there and hustle!

xoxo,

B.

Currently || March Edition

Well it's already March.  I know I can't believe it either!  This year is going by so fast already.  So here's a look at what I'm currently up to this month...

Eating - 
Well I can tell you what I'm trying not to eat: dairy.  Yes, I know it's a "thing" now since Khloe Kardashian said that was one of the key things she did to lose weight.  But I have to say after going dairy-free for a little over a week I have noticed a difference.  My skin looks so much clearer and brighter.  Plus I feel better!  Now it is hard and some things I can't avoid but I get the alternatives when I can.

Listening -
Right now I've been obsessed with this podcast called The Shepod.  It features two quirky and hysterical girls Rachael King and Sara Tenenbein who live in California.  Both podcast every Sunday during brunch and talk about their goings ons.  They're so relatable and the things they talk about are very timely and usually I find myself nodding along to everything they say.  If you've been wanting to give podcasts a try I highly recommend starting with this one.

Watching -
Fuller House!  Who isn't right?  I haven't watched the entire first season yet, but what I have seen has been so great.  I love that it's on Netflix so they have more freedom in the comedy and topics.  So far I'm very happy with the outcome and am so excited that it's already been renewed for a second season.  And if you ever are in need of a Fuller House fix once you've finished watching, you can watch Jodie Sweetin on the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars or watch John Stamos' comedy Grandfathered on FOX.  As a frequent watcher of both shows, you won't regret it.

Lusting - 
I don't know why but I've been really on the hunt for a new baby crossbody bag.  It's not like I need a new purse but this one from Fossil is calling my name or maybe this little number from J Crew.

Still Laughing - 
At this post that my roommate A tagged me in on Facebook.  If you don't know who Titus Burgess is or the hit Netflix show Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, I feel bad for you.  Check it out and once you get to Titus' hit song "Pinot Noir" you'll be able to laugh along with me about this too.

So that's what I'm "Currently" up to.  Share what your currently up to in the blogosphere and tag me so I can see what you're up to :)

xoxo,

B.

Weekend Wardrobe || Caped Crusader

I took a trip home this weekend that was long overdue.  We all went out for dinner at The Landmark, a restaurant in my hometown.  I highly recommend it if you ever find yourself in the Western NY area.  And nothing says Saturday night more than a bold lip and stylish cape.  Check out my outfit from the weekend and where you can pick up similar pieces.

Leggings: I picked these up at TJ Maxx.  They're Ivanka Trump and super comfortable!  I found a similar pair from Lord & Taylor...bonus?  You can get them at a steal of a price right now.

Turtleneck: Another TJ Maxx find!  I'm a huge fan of turtlenecks especially during the winter months.  It's a great basic piece that can be used on it's own with layered accessories or with other sweaters or capes.  Once again I couldn't find any on the TJ Maxx site, but I did find some at Lord & Taylor again here.

Cape: I'm obsessed with the clothes that Kerry Washington wears on Scandal.  So when The Limited announced they're clothing line in collaboration with the show, I counted down the days until the first collection was released.  I immediately saw this cape and vowed that it would be mine.  After months of waiting, it went on sale (contrary to what many store associates and articles said) and I got it!  I love this cape!  Here are some other outerwear options from The Limited that are on sale now.

Boots: I just got these boots about a month ago from Target.  I have been looking for a pair of knee high boots for almost a year.  I wasn't even shopping for these when I was at Target (typical) and once I found them and discovered that they were on sale I had to have them.  Here are a few options to look through, and one pair is on clearance for only $25! Target.com/overthekneeboots

Lips: Lucky for me I have an awesome sister that let me borrow this bold lip shade for dinner.  It's Maybelline New York Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lip Color in Fuchsia Ecstasy.  This color was so fun to wear and it lasted the entire night.  They have some great colors perfect if you're looking for a change or a bold color for spring.  Here's a link where you can get yours and see the other colors they offer: Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lip Color

Purse: I got this incredible clutch for Christmas from my Mom.  She found it at a local Craft Show at Chautauqua Institution, which is a great place to find local, unique crafts, artwork and clothing.  This clutch was handmade by Jessica Joy.  Her line is called Goldyfish by Jessica Joy and she had more than just small clutches and handbags.  My sister got a larger tote/saddle bag and there are several more designs/colors to choose from.  Check her out and where she'll be displaying some of her creations at http://www.goldyfish.com/.

xoxo,

B.

February Fun Facts

Sometimes I need some post inspiration...and for that I turn to Google.  I literally type in the search bar "Blog Ideas for February" and several lists and hits pop up before my eyes.  One post that I clicked on listed the idea "10 Fun Facts About Yourself."  As I was writing down my 10 fun facts, I realized that by 5 I had more than enough.  So here are 5 random, fun and a little embarrassing fun facts about me :)

1.  I'm an Avid Car Singer.  I love to belt out my favorite songs with the music blasting when I'm driving.  I think it's a way to prepare myself for the future karaoke session I'll have one day at a bar or club.

2.  I'm a Control Freak.  This may not fall under fun but it is a fact.  This is the reason why I get anxiety when taking off or landing on an airplane.  And its also the reason why I find it hard to sleep in the car when someone else is driving.  It's the feeling of not having full control over the situation.  It's one of my biggest weaknesses.

3.  I Believed in Santa Claus Until I was 13...maybe even 14.  I do have some justification to this, the first being the fact that I have 2 younger sisters, one who is 6 years younger than me so the dream was still very much alive.  And second, my BFF in middle school and I made a pact that we'd both ask for the brand new iPod Minis (you know when they first came out in colors like pink, green and silver) for Christmas.  Both of our parents had already shot down the idea telling us that they were too expensive.  So we figured that if we asked Santa and got them he must be real.  Well on Christmas Day that year we both got our iPod Minis; thus, Santa Claus is real.  So again the magic still lived on for about another year or so and I did eventually figure out that it was my parents all along.

Here's 13 year old me obviously very excited to receive something from good ol' Saint Nick

4.  I Love Purple.  This may already be a well known fun fact, but it still makes the list.  If you saw my teenage bedroom, college dorm room or any of my basic possessions (work bag, iPhone case, headphones, water bottle, etc.) you could make the assumption that I like purple.  Let's not forget that it is the color of royalty and amethyst is my birthstone so  guess you could say it's in my blood.

5.  I Majored in Pre Med.  Only for a short time in college but I did seriously consider it.  I debated a career path similar to the one I am on now and one that ended with me becoming a pediatrician or some physician that worked with children.  I shadowed my pediatrician, took classes, learned what I could about the profession; but, at the end of they day my head was in it...but my heart wasn't.  So I switched my major back to Communications and here I am today.

xoxo,
B.

Weekend Wear || Winter White

This winter has seen some unusually warm days so I decided to give this "winter white" trend a try.  See below for my look and where you can get some of the pieces I put together in this Weekend Wear outfit.

Jeans: Liverpool in Lucy.  I love these jeans and I always get so many compliments when I wear them.  I have white, black and dark wash denim.  Find yours here LiverpoolJeans.com

Top: American Eagle Sweater.  They have some amazing sweaters right now and some on sale.  Check 'em out www.ae.com

Fur Vest: My vest is from Forever 21.  I didn't think I needed another fur vest since I already own 2 but I've found that this one isn't too heavy and perfect for a unseasonably warm winter day.  I couldn't find this exact style online but here are a few that are similar: Classc Fur Vest, Shaggy Fur Vest, & Texture Fur Vest

Shoes: I'm not sure where these shoes are from actually.  My mom was going to get rid of them but I decided to give them a second life.  But I was recently at Target and they had some great boots, on sale too!

Jewelry: My jewelry if from a variety of different places.  My necklace is from an adorable shop in Providence, RI that I bought when visiting my friend C.  I found a few that are similar here and here. My bracelets...the one with the gemstones is a Bourbon & Bowtie bracelet and come in a variety of styles and you can browse for yourself here.  My infinity bracelet is from a Reeds jewelers and I got it for Christmas from my parents last year.  But they have an entire Infinity collection and this bracelet in another style here.

How do you rock the winter white trend?  Share your photos with me in your next post and give me a shout out!

xoxo,

B.

On the Road || Virginia is for Lovers

     Well it was a crazy Valentine's Day weekend.  For those of you who don't know my current career - it requires a lot of travel.  I'll go on the road as tour manager for Jim Brickman when I'm needed for sometimes a weekend or a bit longer.  Being Valentine's Day and Jim being America's New Romantic Piano Sensation, this is a popular weekend.

     I flew out Wednesday night and arrived in Boston.  Bob - the sound engineer and my cohort on Jim's radio show - was traveling with me and we decided to indulge in some homemade Italian food
for dinner.  The concert was in Worcester Friday and then early Thursday morning Bob and I flew to Baltimore.  It was a quick drive to York, PA where our next show was.  Of course it wouldn't be a successful trip without some travel snafus but we made due and had a great show.

     Saturday while Jim, Anne and Tracy (Anne Cochran is a female vocalist and Tracy Silverman an electric violinist who tour with Jim now and then) were in Toledo performing with the symphony, Bob and I had the day off.  Prior to our travels I did some research and learned that Williamsburg was on the way to our final destination of Norfolk, Virginia.  Growing up I was oddly fascinated with Colonial American and the 13 colonies.  I watched "Liberty Kids" on PBS, knew all the words to every Schoolhouse Rock song involving the topic and read every "Dear America" book involving a young girl in the early 1700s.  But then there was Felicity.  Felicity was one of the OG American Girl dolls and I loved her.  Her clothes, her tories/books and her beautiful red locks.  Ever since I got her one Christmas, the dream to go to Colonial Williamsburg was born.  So knowing I'd be driving right through it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up.
     Colonial Williamsburg was everything and more.  We walked the dirt streets and went into the old general stores, looked in the windows of the carpenter's shop and of course took a picture in the stocks.  Unfortunately it was very cold so walking around outside was a bit bitter and we didn't have enough time to purchase a self guided tour pass.  But I see that as an opportunity to go back.  We did receive some great recommendations from my friend who attended the College of William and Mary: the cheese shop, the peanut shop, and dinner at the Blue Talon.  And Williamsburg has some great shopping (there's an outlet mall a few minutes away) and other nearby towns to explore.  I highly recommend spending a long weekend there but maybe in the warmer months :)

     Valentine's day was celebrated with a great show in Norfolk but our travel day/trip didn't end as

sweet.  All of our flights on Monday were delayed or cancelled. So it took a lot of phone calls, texts
and reworked travel plans to get everyone on track.  After 2 cancelled flights, Wendy (my coworker and Queen of all Air Travel Coordination) and I found a flight from Norfolk to La Guardia to Cleveland that would get me home at a decent hour.  So a quick pack up, speedy shuttle ride, ticket purchase and speed-walk through the airport I made it.  Lucky for me the flight to NY was delayed so I had some time to spare.  Unlucky for me my flight from NY to Cleveland ended up being cancelled. Third times the charm, right?  After another reroute through Charlotte I finally made it back in the 216 around 12:15am.  Situations like these come with the job so you really just have to be ready for anything and try & travel with a carry on whenever you can.  So another weekend down and it definitely wasn't short of exciting.  Can't wait to see what adventure the next dates bring!

xoxo,
B.

Who Do You Love?

Valentine's Day.  A day to celebrate the people you love the most.  Over the years I've accumulated some pretty great Valentines.  Of course for the past 24 years of my life my parents have been my best Valentines.  They've always been there with a smile, a hug and usually a Snickers bar :) (my favorite candy in the history of candy).  Then my 2 younger sisters came along and bam 2 more Valentines to add to the list.  I love my sisters and knowing that we're there for each other in good times and bad is such a great feeling.  Plus we have so much fun together and they are my forever friends.  Last but certainly not least is my dog, Ellie.  She's the best Valentine because she loves you unconditionally.  It doesn't matter if you've had a good day or a bad day this puppy will give you so much love and snuggles.  She's the best.

Next comes my friends.  My group of high school friends are my Valentines.  They've seen me at my best and my worst (those unmentionable teenage/middle school years).  We've had some pretty great adventures together and a part.  But what's the best of all is no matter how long we've been away from each other, when we all come together it's an amazing time and we pick up right where we left off.

My college friends are incredible.  Even though we aren't down the hall from one another any more, we still do our best to stay in touch.  Group texts, phone calls, FaceTime...anything we can to stay up to date on the latest goings ons in our lives.  We do our best to make time to get together in person when we can but even when it's been months or years since we've all been together our friendship is so strong it can survive the test of time.  Still one of our favorite Valentine's Days was when the 4 of us went to a California Pizza Kitchen when we were in college to celebrate with pizza and candy apples.

So no matter who are you celebrating this Valentine's Day with -your parents, siblings, friends or pet- remember to celebrate the relationships you have in your life and letting those people know your love for them.

Happy Valentine's Day!

xoxo,

B.