BigSis LilSis

Chicken Caprese and Pasta

2011-10-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

So on my trip to Costco,

I picked up three packs of fresh mozzarella!

I could pass it up, but you can only eat so much on it's own,

it was time to get creative :)

So most of us have tried a Caprese salad,

but I thought it might be interesting to try it on chicken!

Ingredients:

2 large chicken breast (or amount needed for servings)

2-3 slices of fresh mozzarella per chicken breast (1 ball gave 8 slices)

1 large tomato (sliced for 2-3 slices per chicken breast)

dried or fresh basil

salt and pepper

balsamic vinegar

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, grill indoor or outdoor.

When the chicken is fully cooked, remove and place in a baking dish.

Top with 2-3 slices or tomato and mozzarella.

Add a little salt and pepper and basil.

Broil in oven until the cheese begins to melt.

Plate the chicken and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

Serve with side salad or pasta.

We decided to try a quick and easy side too!

Have you heard of Suddenly Salads?

Grab a coupon here!

It was super easy to make and made a great light side dish :)

I am looking forward to trying some of the other flavors

So I was pleasantly surprised with our impromptu creation

It got the hubby's approval too ;)

I am thinking next time I might try to put some

pesto on the chicken

under the tomato and mozzarella! YUM!

Delish,

Erica

Water for Christmas

2011-10-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

Could you imagine even going a day without WATER?

We need water for more than just drinking,

it is a necessity for living.

They are a grass roots movement

devoted solely to solving the world’s water crisis

by getting the best ideas, the best partners

and the most passionate donors in the same “room.”

They are motivated to work together

to help bring clean water to the world’s thirstiest.

TOGETHER---

we can help impoverished communities around the world tap into safe,

clean water.

In doing so, they believe we can help end the devastating power

of water-borne diseases.

1 Billion Thirsty connects passionate donors, activists and innovators,

enabling the best solutions to impact those most in need of clean water.
Not only are they a clearing house for best innovations and ideas,

they also provide donors with tools to help develop their own campaigns,

raise awareness and fund a particular or targeted “water-oriented” passion.

They strive to help donors raise funds

and awareness in a manner that fits them and their community,

while encouraging their passion and commitment to the cause.

They believe this is a key element to successful, long-term fundraising.

At the same time, they help ensure that any funds raised,

will produce real change in the lives of those affected.

So what can you do to help!!

Calling All Crafters!!

Christmas is right around the corner!

Over the past two years, the Water for Christmas etsy shop has raised more than $10,000 for clean water projects around the world.

This was made possible thanks to more than 50 donors generously offering their goods and services to help stock our shop.

~~~

CRAFTERS!!! We need your help to supply our 2011 Water for Christmas etsy shop.

~~~

Water for Christmas™ is a holiday fundraising campaign of 1BillionThirsty™

As always, all proceeds go to support clean water solutions to the world’s thirstiest.

Hope for Help,

Erica

My "OWN" Bag

2011-09-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

So I have just been loving

the design aspect of having my Esty shop!

So I thought since I have so much fun with it,

I would pass the creative torch to my customers

and let you have some creative edge as well :)

BigSis LilSis Boutique

is now offering

Make My "OWN" Bag

You choose the fabrics

and I make it!

Completely customized

just for you!!

So I am, of course, offering all the fabrics

already listed in my shop,

but I have added some new ones as well,

to help mix and match ;)

So stop by and make your "OWN" bag!!

And because I love my loyal readers so much

I am offering 30% OFF to the first 5 custom orders!!

Use code OWN30 at checkout :)

"OWN" it,

Erica

Happy Chaos

2011-08-23T14:18:00.000-07:00

I was a BIG fan of

Punky Brewster

(Soleil Moon Frye)

as a kid!

Now she is all grown up

with kids like us :)

She just wrote this book

Happy Chaos

I can't wait to read it

and see what insight she has

to embracing the chaos of having small kids

and living through it happily!

I picked up my copy,

be sure to get yours and tell me what you think!

Happy Chaos,

Erica

Autumn/Fall 2011 Preview & Final Cut SALE

2011-08-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few of the styles I have been working on

for my new Autumn/Fall 2011 collection in my shop!

Hope you like them as much as I do :)

ROYAL

Royal Purple and Plaid

PRETTY

Pretty in Pink

RUGGED

Show your rugged side!

POLKA

Polka Dots!

DECO

Art Deco

And be sure to check out our "FINAL CUT" items!

All final cut items are 25% OFF!!

Ready for Fall,

Erica

A SWEET 1st Birthday!!

2011-06-15T15:01:00.000-07:00

My SWEET Aria turned 1 last month and I meant to post this!

Anyway, here are a few shots from her

SWEET SHOPPE

1st Birthday party!

Preperations

Sweet Shop Banner

(Totful Memories)

Mini Truffles that look like cupcakes :)

SWEETS!!!

Goodie Bags

(with a toothbrush and floss of course ;)

Thanks, for making Aria's birthday SWEET!

Remembered to get a family shot with the

Birthday Girl!

Happy Birthday Aria!

I was so impressed with this Cupcake Cake

(Safeway of all places too!)

Sharing with friends

It was a beautiful day and I think she really enjoyed it!

WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH

SWEETIE!!

xo,

Mommy

Crowdtap

2011-06-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

Have you had a chance to join Crowdtap yet? Crowdtap allows you to tap in to engage with brands, test products, and earn cash while helping charities at the same time! Through June 22nd, Crowdtap Level 3 members (i.e. members that have earned at least 2500 points) can even apply to host an Old Navy Decorated Tank Party! If you’re chosen to be a host, you’ll receive a kit that will include the following items…

* 1 FREE tank coupon for you
* 3 FREE tank coupons for your best friends

If you are a Level 3 Crowdtap member, login to your Crowdtap account and click on the “New Actions” tab. You may then find an application for the newest Sample and Share from The Old Navy Style Council. If you’re not yet a Level 3 member, do not fret. Keep in mind that by simply signing up, logging in every day, inviting your friends, and participating in actions, you’ll earn points towards the next level.

(Thanks, Wheel N Deal Mama!)

New to Crowdtap?

If you’re looking for a way to help out charities and get rewarded in return, you may want to check out Crowdtap. Crowdtap is an online community that connects consumers with brands so they can directly influence new product and marketing ideas, while earning cash and free products in return! With Crowdtap, you’ll get to tap in to engage with brands, test products, and earn cash while helping charities at the same time! Here are a few well-known charities promoted on their site:

*Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation – funds efforts for breast cancer research, education, advocacy, health, ect.
*Autism Speaks – goal is to find the causes, treatments, and cure for autism and help those with autism and their families
*Pencils of Promise – help build schools for children who may not receive any education in developing nations around the world.
*ASPCA – mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of animal cruelty to animals
*American National Red Cross – provide emergency assistance, disaster relief, and education in the US and other countries.

…and more!

How Does it Work?

By signing up with Crowdtap, you’ll be presented with a variety of opportunities to complete and you’ll be helping brands make major marketing decisions as well as help spread the buzz about products you like! You’ll also be able to answer “Info questions” that will help them better match you with more opportunities. How do you earn cash rewards? You can earn cash by earning top awards as a result of providing meaningful responses in discussions and participating in discussions daily. Also, once you reach level 5 you will receive a 5% cash bonus for every $10 you earn.

1.) Just head on over here and sign up for a Crowdtap account with your Facebook account
2.) Answer a few polls (click on Quick Hits) to help brands target you by your interests
3.) View Opportunities and participate with the brands and offers that interest you
4.) Earn status, rewards, and charity – the more you do, the more you get, the more you give!

How do the Rewards Work?

After your account reaches at least $10, you’ll be able to redeem your earnings in the following ways…

*Cash Rewards – Certain activity launched by brands will earn you cash rewards.
*Gift Cards – Your Crowdtap cash can be redeemed for Amazon.com gift cards
*Help Charities – You can choose to help your selected charity
*Free Products – Some activities will also offer free products and other goodies

Keep in mind that you’ll need to earn at least $9.99 before you can “redeem” your earnings (you’ll just click on the “redeem link at top”) AND 5% will automatically go to the charity you select on signup which Crowdtap will match. Then just choose to donate the rest to a charity or get an Amazon gift card e-mailed to you!

Also, the points you earn determine your “level” and each level you obtain gives you privileges on the site and showcases your accomplishment. However, keep in mind that points and dollars are completely separate in Crowdtap. Points will help you level up, unlock badges, and compete with your friends while moving up the leaderboard. Dollars translate to real money and can be redeemed for Amazon gift cards or donated to your selected charity. Individual actions can earn you points, dollars, or both but points and dollars are not directly related to one another.

Planting Project

2011-04-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks

we have been saving our used yogurt cups {YoBaby}

for a FUN planting project!

The weather finally cooperated

and it was nice enough out for us to spend some time outside :)

Cadee was really excited and wanted to do it all herself!

We started with our empty cups all lined up

Filled them up with dirt

made little holes for the seeds

She did a GREAT job!

Close up ;)

Gave them a little water

And now we wait for them to sprout!

Try it with your little ones :)

Happy planting,

Erica

Blogiversary & a Mother's Day SALE!!!

2011-04-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to do a post

on my 1 year anniversary for my blog,

{which was actual back in February ;}

but life gets busy, yadda yadda...

So I thought I would just say

thank you

to all my wonderful followers :)

Thanks for hanging in there with me,

even though I am not always consistent

in my posts,

spelling,

grammar,

etc. ;)

During this year of blogging,

I have learned so much!

I also had the courage to start

my own etsy shop!

This blog has been a great launch pad for

BigSis LilSis Boutique

I love adding new styles for you all to see!

Here are some of the newest for Spring/Summer

"Navy"

Spring's favorite hue, NAVY blue!

"Coral"

Summer is near, CORAL is here!

"Goldie"

Out with the old, in with the GOLD!

"Flutterby"

Flutter by day, FLUTTERBY night!

"Minty"

This Spring add a hint of mint!

In this year,

I also became a mom for the second time

to another beautiful little girl!

and can't believe she will be turning 1

in a matter of a month

{Mother's day weekend}

To celebrate my blog turning 1

{as well as my daughter ;}

and

in honor of

Mother's Day

being right around the corner!

I am offering

15% OFF

BigSis LilSis Boutique

use code MOMS15

{Offer available until April 30th @ midnight PST}

Thankful,

Erica

Fill'er up!

2011-03-18T12:31:00.000-07:00

I LOVE making my bags for my Etsy shop,

it is really a great creative outlet,

for designing and sewing!

It makes me feel good each time

I make a new one for a customer :)

One of my awesome customers

sent me some pics of her "Yoko" bag in use...

She is using it in her diaper bag :)

That is one prepared Mama, I love it!

She's got everything in there!

Initially I had started these for use as makeup bags

and now this opens up a whole different range of use!!

A great place to put all those little loose items

from your diaper bag

all in one place for you to easily find!!

Thanks for sharing Andrea :)

Hop on over and check out her website!!

Innovating,

Erica

J. Crew Kids Inspire Me!

2011-03-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

Just getting a little inspiration for spring clothes for the girls!!

So many fun styles to play with :)

Girly & Grey

Preppy & Peach

Purple & Pearls

Sailors & Stripes

{photos via J. Crew}

Check out J. Crew girls

for other great styles :)

Spring on the brain,

Erica

My "Cluster Necklace" is here!!

2011-03-11T13:52:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the super sweet Laura @ Along for the Ride

who sent me this beautiful Cluster Necklace from her

"beads and chains" line!!

Isn't it just adorable?!

I can totally picture wearing this with everything!!

Heres a couple of shots I took myself! ;)

I LOVE the colors!!
{Teal, Grey, Amber}

Check out her shop for more of her lovely pieces!

Her motto is "keep it simple"

But I think they are more than simple

"Simply Elegant"

She creates,

"jewelry and accessories that are simply delicate, whimsical, and beautiful."

She has some truely great pieces in her shop

and I had the hardest time choosing just one!

But...

if you head on over to her blog

she is having a giveaway with a chance

for a $20 credit to her shop,

then you too will be able to have one or two

{or more}

of her little treasures!!

Thanks again Laura
I LOVE IT!!

Erica

Happy 40th Starbucks!!

2011-03-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

I personally had no idea Starbucks had been around that long!

Any who, they are doing a bunch of special things to celebrate :)

but these little lovelies are what caught my attention!!

{Starbucks petites}

My mom always told me:

Good Things, come in Small Packages

{if you didn't know, I'm a shorty ;}

What are Starbucks Petites?

They're super-delicious looking Cake Pops, Mini-Cupcakes,

Sweet Squares and Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

And at just $1.50*

and less than 200 calories each

they're a deliciously well-deserved afternoon {sweet} treat.

Try one free during Starbucks Tribute Days**

Go into a participating store between 2-5 p.m., March 10-12,

purchase any handcrafted beverage

and enjoy a Starbucks Petite treat for FREE!

*At participating stores, plus tax if applicable.
**Offer good 3/10/11 through 3/12/11 from 2-5 p.m. at participating stores.

One offer per beverage.

Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. While supplies last.

{I was not paid by Starbucks or given anything free to post this,

I just LOVE Starbucks}

Happy 40th Starbucks,

Erica

My Secret Obsession...

2011-03-03T20:01:00.000-08:00

COOKIE JARS

My husband makes fun of me because

I have a cookie jar obsession,

well I admit it, I do!

I LOVE cookie jars!!

Now it would only be considered an addiction

if I actually bought every cookie jar, right?!

But I don't because I have been waiting for the PERFECT one!

drum

roll

please...

THIS ONE!

Isn't he a cutie?

When I first saw this on the show

Modern Family

I jumped off the couch,

grabbed the remote,

and pressed rewind on the dvr,

{to show the hubs, who could probably care less, but humors me ;}

all while yelling,

"oh my gosh, oh my gosh!"

My hubs thought something crazy had happened that he missed,

{while sitting right there watching}

No, just me acting like a crazy person,

who found the cookie jar of her

childhood dreams!!

There is something about this cookie jar

that gives me that warm fuzzy feeling and

I want to make up a fantastic story about...

how it was passed down from my great-great grandma

who made cookies every Sunday

for her kids and grandkids

and I am now the lucky girl who gets to have it for my kids!

I have only kept it

a secret

because I don't want everyone

thinking I collect cookie jars!

For some reason when you tell someone you like something,

you seem to only get that sort of item

anytime you receive gifts!

And that is usually really great!!

But when it comes to cookie jars,

I have to be clear,

I only like THIS ONE cookie jar!!

{and my birthday is only 4 months away ;}

This will be mine,

oh yes,

it will be mine ;}

Erica

Camera Strap WINNER!!

2011-03-01T11:02:00.000-08:00

CONGRATS...

ALELY said...My Little "Shabby" Makeup Bag is my favorite in your etsy shop.

Please email me asap with your contact info

so I can send you your new camera strap!!

Thank you to everyone who participated,

I wish I had time to make one for everyone,

but I promise to do another give away soon!

Stay tuned,

Erica

My 1st Camera Strap...{Giveaway}

2011-02-21T14:57:00.000-08:00

I have seen quite a few camera straps out there

{all of them super cute of course!}

and I thought it was time to give one a try myself!

For this particular style I used two different tutorials

here and here

What do you think of the color choices?

I am in love with grey and yellow!!

Since I think it turn out pretty darn good!

I wanted to give it away to one lucky follower!!

YAY!!

{It should fit most SLR camera straps :}

Here's how to enter:

1. You must follow BigSis LilSis {one entry}

{If you already are, you're in! Just post a comment letting me know!

if you aren't... no worries...

just click the follow button on the side bar

and then make sure to post a comment and let me know!}

*Reminder: make sure to add your email if it's not linked to your profile!!

Extra Entries:

2. Grab my button! Post it in your side bar! {one entry}

3. Go to my Etsy shop,

then let me know what your favorite item is!! {one entry}

So that is a totally of 3 entries!!

Do all three and up your odds :}

This giveaway will run until

Feb. 28th @ midnight PST

This is also the last day for my

Etsy shop SALE!!

A winner will be announced on Mar. 1st!!

***GIVEAWAY CLOSED***

Good luck,

Erica

xoxo

Grab My Button!!

2011-02-18T17:18:00.000-08:00

BigSis LilSis has a BUTTON!!

I know, I know it's about time,

but I just thought it was a lot more complicated than it was!

I used a tutorial from here!

So if you don't have a button yet,

get one, it's easy!!

Oh and grab my button while you're at it!! ;}

Button happy,

Erica

Spring is in the Air!

2011-02-16T15:32:00.000-08:00

With temperatures hitting the mid 70's last week

and the ground hog predicting early spring :)

I figured it was time

to add a few Spring styles

to my Etsy shop!

With it raining this week,

I hope these will help you feel like Spring is around the corner!!

"Juicy"

This one is my favorite!

"Poppy"

Poppies are so pretty!

"Sunny"

(Sold Out)

Blue skies and sunshine

"Shabby"

Shabby Chic that is!

Spring fever,

Erica

5 Love Languages

2011-02-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

This past week I learned something exciting about

LOVE.

Love

has it's own language

and we all understand and interrupt it differently!

There are actually

5 Love Languages

Ways that we give and receive

LOVE!

My hubby and I decided to take the

QUIZ

and learn our LOVE language!

Here is a run down of the

5 LOVE Languages

It's fun to read them first to see which one you think you are

and then take the quiz to find out which one you really are!

Words of Affirmation

Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important—hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

Quality Time

In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there—with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby—makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.

Receiving Gifts

Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures.

Acts of Service

Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

Physical Touch

This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face—they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.

Share the LOVE!
I am offering
15% OFF
until Feb. 28th
in my Etsy shop!
Use code LOVE15

Happy Valentine's Day,
Erica
xo

The VEGAN Challenge: DAY 3 & 4

2011-02-13T21:52:00.000-08:00

Day 3
Today was very productive for me,
I decided to try a Vegan Banana Bread recipe

Fresh out of the oven!

Ready to eat and time for the taste test!
It was DELISH!
Even the hubby liked it!
It was pretty basic,
I didn't have any nuts or 70% chocolate on hand,
but it was still super yummy!!
So that was my breakfast :}

Lunch:
I had leftover veggie marinara spaghetti
Still YUMMY!

Dinner:
We made black bean and brown rice burritos with whole wheat tortillas.
Wow was that hard to swallow, literally!
It was very bland,
we added non-dairy cheese, lettuce, tomato, avocado, radishes,
but still pretty plain :{
I wasn't really sure how to season it,
so I suppose that was the reason!
But like the hubs said,
"once it's in your stomach and you're full,
it doesn't matter what it tasted like!"
Good job staying positive babe!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Day 4
Starting to Break

Breakfast:
Kashi Cereal and light Soy milk

Brunch:
I met friends for a birthday brunch
at one of my most favorite breakfast spots,
and this is when it really starting breaking me!
Watching everyone order their
Macadamia Nut Banana pancakes,
Raspberry French Toast,
Egg, Toast and Bacon,
all smothered in syrup
and then looking down at my
measly potatoes and fruit cup
really made me question, "why I was doing this?!"
But I did NOT cheat!

Snack:
Some people may think Oreos are not Vegan,
but as far as I'm concerned,
the ingredients don't lie!
And at this point I am losing hope :(

Dinner:
I CRACKED,
I CHEATED :(
We went to dinner at my parents house to celebrate
my Grandpa's 86th birthday!!
Happy Birthday Grandpa!!

I am not even going to tell you everything that I cheated on,
because it is bad, real bad!
I will tell you I had a cupcake with
vanilla confetti frosting!!
SO FREAKIN' GOOD!!
After missing out on
ice cream cake on Day 2
I was DONE,
I picked the worst week for this challenge!

So I guess the moral of this story is that
I GAVE UP! :(
I admit it and I am proud of the almost 4 days I did complete!
I have learned a lot about food
and feel like I can make better decisions for me and my family.

As for being Vegan,
it's just not for me!
We plan to reduce our meat intake to a few days a week,
and add some healthier choices,
like the meat-less spaghetti,
so that will definitely go on the monthly menu!

As for the vanilla Soy creamer,
I will never think it's better than my coffee mate creamer
and since I am not lactose intolerant,
I will most likely go back to regular milk for my cereal and cookies!

And last, but surely not least,
Nothing compares to
REAL CHEESE!
I LOVE CHEESE way too much
and if you have been to my house,
you know this is true!
American cheese, jalapeño cheese, sharp cheddar,
goat cheese, brie, blue cheese, gorgonzola, monterey jack,
the list goes on!!!

Almost everything SUPER delicious has some type of
DAIRY
in it and I am not ready to give that up!!

But another thing I realized during this challenge,
was that even if I don't eat like a Vegan,
there are other ways I can be Vegan!!

VEGAN SHOPPING!!
{not groceries, but CLOTHES!!}

I was just shopping around on a website I frequent called
LuLus.com

and found their

VEGAN PURSES and BAGS!

They also have

VEGAN SHOES!

Pretty cool and cute!
I have never seen a strictly VEGAN section on a shopping website!

I really wanted this pair

But they are out of my size :(

Love the Cheetah print!

So maybe this will be my next challenge ;}

Happy VEGAN Shopping,

Erica

The VEGAN Challenge: DAY 2

2011-02-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

Day 2:

Went a little better!
Actually A LOT better!!

Breakfast:

Bagel w/ peanut butter {YUM!}

the other half of my grapefruit {also YUM!}

Coffee w/ Silk french vanilla soy creamer {tasting a little better ;}

Lunch:

Peppered Tofurky sandwich w/ mustard, lettuce and tomato

{I really wanted some avocado, but didn't have any}

This sandwich was so much better than it sounds!!

The Tofurky was surprisingly tasty,

my hubby was totally grossed out by the idea of "Tofurky,"

but if he gave a chance I think he would like it!

Oh and those Veggie tortilla chips are super good too.

The three flavors are:

spinach & garlic, red beet & onion, tomato & sesame

{thanks for the suggestion Nancy}

Snack:

Apple

two OREOS

That's right, I said OREOS!!!

My life just got a whole lot BETTER today

when I found this list

Accidentally Vegan

*It is still best to check the ingredients listed on these products,

as some may contain traces of animal-derived ingredients.

I double checked the ingredients on my OREOS

and I was in the clear!! YUM-O!!

Dinner:

We went over to my In-laws to celebrate my Brother-In-Law's birthday

Happy Birthday Chris!!

There was Sausage pizza,

Ham and Pineapple pizza (my fav)

and Veggie pizza

Now since I am not eating cheese I removed the top and ate

Cheese-less veggie pizza

Luckily there was salad too!!

Thanks to my MIL I was able to eat :)

BUT...

dessert was a different story

{and kinda depressing}

I was an ice cream cake,

not just any ice cream cake

{maybe with a flavor I hated, unlikely}

but with World Class Chocolate ice cream

{my #1 fav)

At this point I am still very strong and not willing to break on Day 2!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After I found my "accidentally vegan" list

I started searching for sites that would let me know

what specific ingredients I should be looking for that would be

animal-derived or dairy

Beginner Vegan Food Shopping

helped me with so simple key points from when shopping

Hidden Animal Ingredients

Since those ingredient list can sometime seem like a foreign language

Go Dairy Free

Just because it say "non-dairy" or "lactose free"

doesn't deem it Vegan

Hopefully this will make things a little easier

for shopping and EATING!

It has already made me feel like

I can actually eat things I have always eaten!!

Liberated,

Erica

The VEGAN Challenge: DAY 1... no winner :(

2011-02-07T21:07:00.000-08:00

When someone asks me if I want to hear the

GOOD NEWS

or the

BAD NEWS

I usually want the GOOD first

because then I can be authentically HAPPY about it!

If I hear BAD news first,

then it just puts a damper on the GOOD news :{

So with that being said I will tell you about my

1st DAY

on the VEGAN Challenge!

Here was the menu for the day,

{from Good to Bad}

Dinner:

SO GOOD!

Whole wheat linguine, pasta sauce with a rainbow of veggies!

a little side salad with my favorite oil based dressing!

I was so excited to end the day with such a delicious meal!!

My secret ingredient:

add a little brown sugar to the sauce

to help cut out some of the acidity!

Breakfast:

Kashi Go Lean cereal w/ light Soy milk

and a half of a grapefruit!

This was a decent breakfast,

but I really couldn't stop thinking about

how much I wanted a homemade egg mcmuffin!

As I sat down with my girls to eat breakfast,

Cadee with her waffle and syrup!

I looked at mine and thought,

OMG! This is what it feels like to be on a diet!!

The cereal was fine,

it just tasted like puffed rice

and granola clusters with a hint of cinnamon.

The soy milk was interesting,

kinda sweet and not white,

that's what surprised me most.

The grapefruit was delicious, the perfect sweet and sour!

I also had some coffee with SILK french vanilla creamer

and that is definitely going to take some getting used to,

from previously using Coffeemate creamer.

I was bummed to find out,

that just because Coffeemate creamer

is "non-dairy" and has "no lactose,"

is unfortunately NOT VEGAN :{

Lunch:

UGH! Kill me now!

The soup was so BLAH!

I have had other brands of lentil soup and really liked it,

at this point going Vegan is not looking promising :{

I usually like a little bread with butter when I have soup,

to dip it in and just cause butter is so tasty!

This "faux" buttery spread,

is also going to take some getting used to,

it's definitely NOT butter!

Salad was my favorite part!! ;}

So I think today was 45% successful!

Oh and unfortunately,

I still have the WORST news :{

We didn't get enough pledges

to take the challenge

so, I can't do the giveaway!

BUT,

I do have a little surprise up my sleeve for tomorrow,

here is to hoping it turns out well!

Day 1 COMPLETE,

Erica

Last Chance...

2011-02-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

...to get on board for

The Vegan Challenge

and to be entered into the giveaway!

As of now we have very minimumal entries :(

and to offer the giveaway we need at least 5 people

to say "I am taking the one week VEGAN challenge!"

So hurry and take the pledge!

I did my grocery shopping today
and it was a very interesting experience,

I have to say I probably looked completely out of my element!

I felt lost and really had no clue what I was doing,

but I did end up with some things to make some edible meals ;)

Monday's Menu

Breakfast: Kashi cereal and Lite Soy Milk

Lunch: Lentil Soup and salad

Dinner: Whole wheat linguini with veggie marinara

I am going to do my best to post each day
to let you all know how the meal went!!

As for tonight, I will be eating junk food ;)

{just kidding, well maybe just a little won't hurt}

Going Luck,
Erica
xo

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-02-04T21:49:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Melissa @ Mason Bay

and

Christie @ Life as I Know It

for my very first blog award!

I was so excited when I got not just one award but two!!

You are so sweet!!

To Accept The Award you must:

1.)Thank and Link Back to the Blogger Who Awarded You With

2.)Share 7 Things About Yourself

3.)Award 12 Recently Discovered Great Bloggers

4.)Contact The Bloggers Inform Them of The Award

7 Things about me you may not know:

1.) I am petite and just under 5 feet at 4' 11"!

2.) I married my high school sweetie

3.) I have a bachelors degree in Sociology

4.) I am a SAHM and most days I stay in my pjs all day ;)

5.) I used a sewing machine for the first time only a year and a half ago.

6.) Taking the Vegan Challenge

7.) Love my life!!

12 Recently Discovered Great Bloggers:

1.) A New Creation

2.) Baby Night Night Botique

3.) Buffalo Gal

4.) Bumblebee & Sophie

5.) Creative Juices for Decor

6.) Dear Lillie

7.) Dreamy Whites

8.) Frou Frou Decor

9.) Green Door Designs

10.) Isabella & Max Rooms

11.) Mom, I'm Still Hungry

11.) The Stories of A to Z

12.) Utah Baby Blog

Feeling Stylish ;),

Erica

The VEGAN Challenge...{GIVEAWAY}

2011-02-02T11:37:00.000-08:00

So, if you missed the episode of Oprah yesterday on

"Harpo's Vegan Challenge"

check out a preview here

and the run down of what took place here

Since I am turning 30 this year!

Yup that's right the BIG 3-0!!

I have been thinking a lot about how to get myself healthier

and live my best life!

I am beginning to see the fine lines around my eyes a little more,

having a few extra aches in the morning when I get out of bed,

a lack of energy and just an over all need to feel healthy!

A lot of people make New Year's resolutions

to get in shape and diet,

but have never been one to feel like I needed to diet or exercise.

Now after having two kids and approaching a pivotal age,

I can definitely sense a change in my body

and I am not really liking it!

SO...

time to make some changes,

I have decided to take the

ONE WEEK

VEGAN CHALLENGE

and see how my body responds!

What is a VEGAN?

A type of vegetarian diet that excludes meat, eggs

and dairy products

and all other animal-derived ingredients.

Did you know?...

*Americans eat nearly 10 billion animals in a year.

*The average American's yearly meat intake is

70 pounds higher

than it was a century ago.

*Research has shown that non-meaters tend to

live 6-10 years longer

than meat eaters.

For more info, check out the FAQ's

I would love it if others would join me and keep me motivated!

I know this isn't going to be easy

and I may get a little cranky at first {sorry hubby}

and

I can't guarentee that after this I will be

100% Vegan or meat free.

But...

I just think it is important take charge of my eating habits now,

in order to be a good example for my girls!

I want to show them how to be more conscious

about what goes into our bodies,

and where our food comes from!

For those of us {meaning myself} that have no idea

what we are getting into

here is a sample vegan grocery list of items

to get us started!!

As a little incentive to my readers

that want to take this challenge with me,
if I get at least 5 people to do this with me

I will be giving away a copy of Kelly Freston's book
to one lucky challenger!

Veganist

where she gives you meal planning ideas

and alternatives to meat like this...

Instead of spaghetti with meatballs,
Try spaghetti with veggie meatballs (found in the grocer's freezer)

Instead of pizza with sausage,

Try pizza made with Daiya cheese, veggie sausage

or mushrooms and a whole grain crust

Instead of chili with meat,
Try chili with three kinds of beans and veggie meat crumbs

So if you are up for the challenge

Here are the rules to enter:

We will start the challenge Monday, February 7, 2011

{I want to give you some time to prepare :}

and it will end Sunday, February 13, 2011

Comment on this post:

"I am taking the one week VEGAN CHALLENGE!"

For extra entries:

1. Come back and check in

by commenting on how it is going for you!

{you can comment everyday of the challenge}

2. Become a follower of BigSis LilSis

{If you already are, thank you, and let me know!}

3. "Like" BigSis LilSis on Facebook

VERY IMPORTANT:

Make sure to leave me an email contact.

If I cannot contact the winner, I will have to pick again

and that would be a bummer!

Remember:
We need at least 5 of us for me to do the giveaway!
So tell your friends and see who is up for the challenge!!

***GIVEAWAY CLOSED***

Veganist {for a week},

Erica

Sassy Pants

2011-01-26T15:00:00.000-08:00

So I was browsing Target once again

and it seems like everything is on clearance,

it's great!

I happened to find some plain old sweat pants for my girls

that I thought I could make a little more sassy! ;)

SASSY PANTS ;)

I just took some satin ribbon and sewed it down the sides,

then made a couple of bows to add to the bottom.

Lastly, I added a little rhinestone for an extra girly touch!

What do you think?

I was hoping to add them to my etsy shop,

but when I went back they were all gone :(

Sassy,

Erica

linking to these parties

LivingSocial Deals

2011-01-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

Today's Deal:

AMAZON.com

$20 Giftcard

for ONLY $10

I got mine, get yours here!

Dealin',

Erica

Pinterest is the NEW...

2011-01-12T16:59:00.000-08:00

INSPIRATION!!!

Wow this new network is so exciting!

For me,

this is what I have been needing

to catalog all those ideas and inspiration

for DIYs, blog topics, decor ideas, and the list goes on!

I was turned on to this site by Beth from The Stories of A to Z

She did a great tutorial on what Pinterest has to offer!

Here is a picture of my first PIN!

Aren't they adorable!!

Well I have a feeling I am going to be going Pin wild

all over my board with fun things like this! :}

Pinner,

Erica

Recycling Crayons

2011-01-07T21:50:00.000-08:00

If you have a toddler,

most likely you have A LOT of crayons

{and unlikely kept neatly in their box!}

I found this great idea to keep all those little crayons,

{that are constantly breaking}

in a more toddler friendly form!

I just took a large box of crayons from the dollar store

{48 crayons for a dollar, can't beat that!}

I only used 1 box,
but I think 2 boxes would make for a better batch,

that way you have more colors to work with!

Then I used a regular size muffin tin,

I think the size is easy for those little toddler hands to hold ;)

This was also a great opportunity
for Cadee to practice matching colors!!

After she divided the colors,

I arranged the crayons

so that there would be a multiple colors

around the edges!

Pop them in the oven for 15 min at 250 degrees

Pretty cool huh?!

Let the tin cool a bit,
then carefully place in the freezer for 15 min.
{This makes it easier to take out of the muffin tin!}

Voila!!!

Fun and wacky coloring crayons your toddler will love

and a perfect indoor activity during these winter months!

Happy coloring,
Erica
xo

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-03T10:48:00.000-08:00

All good things for 2011!!!

2010 was a year of transition and changes for my family,

we are looking forward to 2011 being a year of

doing less and loving more!

Our lives can easily get too busy

and we soon find ourselves overwhelmed with packed schedules

and less time for yourself and your family.

We have decided to take it back to basics

and make sure to have quality family time this year!

Also, I have a fresh start in my Etsy shop,

all new items for the New Year!!

Here is a look at some of the new stuff ;)

New Makeup Bags

Baby/Child Hooded Bath Towels

Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous 2011!

Cheers,

Erica

Santa was here...

2010-12-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

It was the first year that Cadee understood what

Santa was all about!

We left out the cookies and milk

and few carrots for the reindeer,

in the morning she was so excited to see

they had been nibbled on and

very happy to see the gifts left under the tree!

Thank you Santa :)

They got right to work on check out their new toys!

{in their matching pj's of course ;}

Just love those little sleepy faces!

After that our day was off and running,

lots of grandparent to visit

and presents for the girls to open!

Now that our house looks like a toy store

we need some serious Christmas clean-up

and clearing out of old toys ;)

~ ~ ~

I am clearing out my Etsy shop too!

TODAY ONLY

Use code CHRISTMAS30

for 30% ALL ITEMS

These items will be gone after today,

I am working on new things for the NEW YEAR

so stay tuned!

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas

and now on to a wonderful New Year!!

Cheers,

Erica

Somewhat Simple's 12 Giveaways of Christmas

2010-12-19T11:59:00.000-08:00

Pop on over to Somewhat Simple for 12 days of fabulous giveaways.

You could win this makeup bag set from my Etsy Shop!

Happy Holidays,

Erica

Item of the week & Etsy Shop Holiday Hours

2010-12-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

My FAVORITE item of the week!

Just gave one of these as a baby shower gift for a dear friend!!

Baby Boy Tie Onesie w/ Matching Burpcloth

Holiday Schedule:
BigSis LilSis Boutique

Dec. 13-19 Open

Dec. 20-25 CLOSED (MERRY CHRISTMAS)
Dec. 26 OPEN (After Christmas SALE)
Dec. 27-Jan. 1 CLOSED

(Working on new items for the NEW YEAR!)

Just updating my shop hours for the last few weeks of the year!

I am also offering a 10% discount on all you last minute shoppers ;)

10% off all orders until Dec. 19th ~ Use code HOLIDAY10

~Erica

The Hunger Games...

2010-12-07T21:24:00.000-08:00

Who has read this book?

If you have not, go out and get it right NOW!!!

But don't just get this one, get the other two in the trilogy

{Catching Fire and Mocking-jay}

If you don't you will be wishing you did!

This book pulls you in and leaves you wanting more :)

Here is the synopsis:

Twenty-four are forced to enter. Only the winner survives.

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. Each year, the districts are forced by the Capitol to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the Hunger Games, a brutal and terrifying fight to the death – televised for all of Panem to see.

Survival is second nature for sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who struggles to feed her mother and younger sister by secretly hunting and gathering beyond the fences of District 12. When Katniss steps in to take the place of her sister in the Hunger Games, she knows it may be her death sentence. If she is to survive, she must weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

Oh and one more thing,

they are making the movie too!

Coming in 2011!!

Check out a tidbit here!

Happy reading,

Erica

The Countdown Begins...

2010-12-01T12:44:00.000-08:00

Only 25 DAYS until CHRISTMAS!!

This is so exciting :)

I love Christmas,

all the decorating, candles, baking, gift giving!!

This is the most joyful holiday and you can feel the energy in the air :)

If you still have things to check off your Christmas List

then stop by BigSis LilSis Boutique

Here are a few great gift ideas!!

Baby Boy Tie Onesie

Baby Leg Warmers

Make-up Bags

I have added some new items to my shop

in honor of the first

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

I am also offering a 10% discount on your total purchase

free shipping on each additional item

{US only}

from Dec.1 - Dec.12

Use code HOLIDAY10

Happy Holidays,

Erica

Happy Thanksgiving & Black Friday Sale!!

2010-11-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a fun little craft for the kids this Thanksgiving!
They make great table scape additions,
take homes for your guests
and keep the kiddos busy while you are cooking!

Candy Turkeys
What you will need:
Royal icing (The glue)
Peanut Butter Cup Minis (Belly)
Vanilla Waffer cookies (Backside to hold Feathers and Belly)
Chocolate Covered Pretzels (Feet)
Candy Corn (Feathers and Beak)
French Burnt Peanuts (Gobbler)
Maple Nut Goodies (The head)
Red Sugar Sprinkles (Eyes)

1. Start with the Vanilla Wafer
and put an arch of icing along the flat side.
Place (6) candy corn pointing toward the center along the arch.
Add a little more icing to the center of the wafer
to attach the peanut butter cup.
Set aside to dry.
2. Take the Maple Goodie (head) add three small dots of icing.
Place the two eyes in the icing.
take of the larger end of the candy corn to make the beak
and attach it in the center of the Maple Goodie.
3. Attach the head to the top of the peanut butter cup.
4. Add the Gobbler below the beak.
5. Attach the chocolate covered pretzel to the bottom last,
when the body is stable.

Black Friday is just around the corner,

how many of us will be up before the sun ready to shop?!

Truthfully, I have always wanted to do this,

but never quite go my bum out of bed in time ;)

This year I am really going to give a go though!!

I hope everyone has a delicious Thanksgiving

with family and friends

and safe travels if you are heading out of town :)

Since I am so THANKFUL for my wonderful followers

I am offering 20% OFF all items in my Etsy boutique

through Sunday 11/28,

Just use the code THANKS20!!

So Thankful,

Erica

Happy "Handmade" Holidays with Sew, Mama, Sew!

2010-11-17T09:52:00.000-08:00

Come check out all the great handmade items featured on

Sew, Mama, Sew

for the month of November!!

I am so honored to be featured this year :}

Happy "Handmade" Holidays,

Erica

Happy Mom, Happy Home

2010-11-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

A friend found this great article

and I just had to share its contents

with as many moms as I know.

So many times we get stuck in the day to day

taking care of everyone else but ourselves.

If we don't take care of us, who will?

We are just as important as the rest of our family!

Here a few reminders,

that it is more than okay to put yourself first

once in a while

to keep you and your family HAPPY!!

Happy Mom = Happy Home!!

Here are 10 things happy moms do--

so remember these tips in your day-to-day life!

1. Find time for yourself
Happy moms know they deserve a little time to themselves. When you know you're going to have a little room to breathe later on in the day, it's easier to take on everything that's in front of you. Our formula? Take 2 hours out for yourself every 3 days.

{This is so true, if you worked a 72 hours shift, don't you deserve AT LEAST a 2 hour break?}

2. Don't make a happy baby, happier!
We all do it...you see your baby's head at what you're sure is an unnatural angle snoozing in their car seat. You just know they'll be happier if their head was straight. So you move them. And they wake up. Then they scream. Or, you see them playing happily in the sand. You just know they'll be happier if they played on the slide. So you interrupt them and move them to the slide. And they're angry. And they let you know they're REALLY angry. Here's the thing, they were happy. It can be hard to do, but if your kid's not complaining, leave them be!

Happy baby = Happy Mommy.

{Didn't understand how effective this was until baby #2}

3. Embrace the mess
So your house doesn’t look like something out of a magazine. That just means it’s cozy! Your children have hands coated in dirt from the playground and faces coated in spaghetti from dinner. It’s not gross—it’s an adorable photo op! Life is about how you look at things. Next time that pile of laundry that’s been sitting on the chair for three days starts to get you down, just remember…

it’s probably feng shui.

{I like to think our house is cozy too!}

4. Make time for your friends

Your family can survive without you while you

make time to see friends. You are a woman with your own identity and its imperative that you and that identity go out for some margaritas once in awhile!

{GIRLS NIGHT!!!}

5. Stop blowing yourself off

While you may be the one taking care of everyone, it doesn't mean you can't also get what you want. Help your family realize your needs are as important as theirs and when mom is happy, everyone is happy, but when mom is not....

{no one is happy, especially Daddy!}

6. Get in the zone

Take 10 minutes to do absolutely nothing but rest. Take a break from your day, close your eyes, breath in slowly and deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times. Think about a place you love that is relaxing, spend 10 minutes there in your mind.

{This works really well when you about to pot your top after your little one has dumped applesauce on top of their head!}

7. Remember your dreams and goals

Everyday we are encouraging our children to reach their full potential. But sometimes in the midst of being a parent we forget about our own dreams and goals. The best thing you can do to encourage a child is to lead by example –happy moms hold on to their dreams and goals and don’t let go.

{Have a hobbie, find a creative outlet, stay active!}

8. Be lighthearted

Don't be the uptight mom. Be silly and dance with your kids to their music or tv show tunes. Be romantic and pull your partner into a waltz. Dance in slippery socks in your kitchen while making dinner.

{Thanks for dancing on the coffee table with us Mom ;}

9. Bend the Rules

One of the best parts of making the rules is occasionally breaking them. Maybe it’s taking your child out of school for half a day on their birthday, or waking them up in the middle of the night to see a sky of shooting stars. Happy moms know how to turn the mundane into fun.

{This one always made me feel special, I look forward to making those memories with my little ones}

10. Mind your own business

Concentrate on creating your life the way you want it. Take care of you and your family. Don’t get overly concerned with what other people are doing or saying. Don’t get caught up with gossip or name calling. Stop seeking the validation of others and be confident in yourself.

{10 years from now...
Cadee: But Mom, Bella's Mom lets her...
Me: I am not Bella's Mom, I am your Mom!

I heard this conversation many times growing up
and I am sure I will be having it many more with my girls ;}

What do you do for yourself that makes you a happy mom?

Happy Mom,

Erica

BOO who?!

2010-10-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

This week has been filled with Halloween fun!!

Last night we went BOOing,

tonight we are carving pumpkins

and earlier in the week I took the little ones

trick-or-treating at our local outdoor mall!

My girly giraffe checking out her goodies!!

It was the cutest darn thing seeing all the kids in their costumes :}

I think Cadee had a great time,

because she hasn't stopped asking to go "ticker teeting"!!

What is BOOing you ask...

Last year what the first time I had been

BOOED!

I thought it was a great idea

and couldn't wait to do my BOOing this year :}

I found these cute BOO sheets over at TomKat Studio!

Just print them out and add it to the goody bag,

but hurry you only have a couple of days left before Halloween!!

BOO who?!

BOOing {like EGGing} is a great way to celebrate Halloween

with your neighbors, coworkers, family and friends!!

Happy Booing,

Erica