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Welcome to Sweet-Pea-Creations Blog!
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1/10/2008
A New Blog for Sweet-Pea-Creations?
10/21/2007
Stay at Home Mom Tips for Earning Extra Money from Home
A Mother’s Work is Never Done and That’s Just Fine with Her
Conquering Toddler Separation Anxiety
Pregnancy Tips for a Healthy Weight Gain
9/30/2007
ATTN: WAHM'S!
7/2/2007
Fourth of July Craft Ideas for Kids:
Family 4th of July Celebration
Pregnant in the Summer?
6/17/2007
Slash Your Grocery Bills
5/31/2007
Quick & Cool Meals
Creative Father's Day Gifts Your Kids Can Make
4/24/2007
Mother's Day Craft and Recipe Ideas for the kids!
Make Mother's Day Easy For You
4/19/2007
Babies Galore eBook - Get your FREE Copy!
4/9/2007
Tips for Cleaning your Carpets
4/3/2007
Healthy Easter Treats For Kids
4/1/2007
Want to win a new Dyson Slim Vacuum???
3/15/2007
St. Patrick's Day is Coming...
2/13/2007
New Pink and Brown Dots paper style
1/22/2007
Gorgeous way to package a baby shower gift!
1/18/2007
Sweet-Pea-Creations Newsletter
New Valentine's Birth Announcements and Note Cards Added!
1/10/2007
New recipe to share!
So many new styles to share!
1/3/2007
Yummy recipe that I just HAVE to share!
1/2/2007
Now offering Gift Certificates!
1/1/2007
Just added Baby Boy Valentines Birth announcement and Note Card
12/31/2006
What's New??? Valentine's Baby Birth Announcements!
12/30/2006
New Year’s Resolution – Weight Loss
Adorable new Baby Blocks Birth Announcements and Note Cards!
12/1/2006
I can't wait for christmas!!!!
11/14/2006
Holiday Cards and Christmas Announcements are here!
10/23/2006
Boutique Mom Features Our Products!
10/19/2006
SPC included in a Baby Swag basket for Britney Spears!
10/5/2006
NEW--for October Babies! Halloween Birth Announcements!
10/4/2006
Bargain Mommy Features Sweet-Pea-Creations!
10/2/2006
I'm proud to be featured on What's Hot For Tots!
10/1/2006
New Baby Shower Invitations and Note Cards Added!
9/30/2006
Last Day of our End Of Summer Sale! Everything is 20% off!!!
New Baby Shower Invitations and Note Cards Added!
9/25/2006
Sweet Pea Lists the Best Boutiques!
9/23/2006
Help KateyBug and WIN!
9/21/2006
Reporting on my Crock Pot Meat Loaf
9/20/2006
What's for dinner Wednesday - Crock Pot Meat Loaf
What's for dinner Wednesday's
9/19/2006
Halloween Costume Ideas for Toddlers
9/18/2006
Welcome to our new Blog
Now shipping to Canada
End of Summer Sale Extended!
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Date: 1/10/2008
Title: A New Blog for Sweet-Pea-Creations?
Oh how I have been wanting to start a new blog using WordPress but the thought of using their plain ole' templates just stops me dead in my tracks. I want something that I love and is custom (don't we all???).
Well, I came across this great contest at A Frog In My Soup and they are giving away not one, but TWO FREE blog designs! You can choose from one of their pre-made themes, or they will custom design one from their website Sweet'nSimpleDesign.
Hmmmm....after looking around, I really love the pre-made Swirlz 'n Dotz (which just happens to match their website...isn't it adorable???), but might consider something more custom to match Sweet-Pea-Creations!
Crossing my fingers as I would LOVE to win and finally dive into the blogging world!
If you need a fresh new blog look or want to get started on Word Press or Blogger like me, check out the contest at A Frog In My Soup and check out all the adorable designs at Sweet 'n Simple Design!
Date: 10/21/2007
Title: Stay at Home Mom Tips for Earning Extra Money from Home
Staying at home with your children is a rewarding job. Raising children is a hard task even under the best of circumstances. Still, moms who stay at home may be yearning for more in their own lives to feel fulfilled.
The invention of the Internet opened up many doors for entrepreneurial exploits. An entire world of information is at our fingertips twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. To take advantage, all we need is a computer and a little motivation. This is the perfect way for moms to make some money of their own.
The most popular choice would be internet auction houses. The most popular of which is eBay. Everyone has something around their home that they can sell that someone else may want. One day, while your kids are sleeping, check out the attic and the garage for hidden treasures that could fetch a good price on the internet. Use a digital camera to take pictures of all potential money-making items. You can find a useful guide to getting started with auctions here, http://www.momstalkbiz.com/make-money-ebay.html
Use your hobbies to make some easy cash. Do you like to draw, paint, crochet, or create crafts? Create your own website to advertise your particular expertise. Local flee markets and craft shows are a perfect way to get your product out there to the public. These events take place on the weekend, so your spouse can watch the kids while you market your merchandise.
Another way to make some extra money is online surveys. Large companies spend millions of dollars each year in market research for new and existing products. They poll consumers like you and me to see if there is sufficient interest in their products. The surveys can take anywhere from five minutes to an hour per survey for follow-up surveys. Don’t expect to get rich, but just earn a little extra income.
Different companies offer a variety of incentives. Some companies offer points for their surveys which can be converted into prizes. Other survey companies offer cash for trialing new services and products. These surveys usually require a credit card for a preliminary fee that is reimbursed by the company upon completion of the survey.
Any work you do for extra money on the Internet requires an online account for companies or individuals to deposit your earned cash. The premier online account is PayPal. Signing up is free, but you must have a valid bank account that can be verified in case there is any discrepancy with the funds in your PayPal account.
There are a number of ways to earn extra money as a stay at home mom. The Internet offers plenty of opportunities that do not require a lot of time. The extra funds that you will be making will feel good.
If you want to take it to the next level and start earning more serious cash from home, visit Moms Talk Biz for more ideas.
Date: 10/21/2007
Title: A Mother’s Work is Never Done and That’s Just Fine with Her
Ask any mom how becoming a mother feels and she’ll tell you it is the greatest experience of her life. Nothing can top motherhood! Ask her again after a few months of little to no sleep, when her 2 year old has ransacked the entire house or her teenager has just started driving. She may give you an overwhelmed look and let out a heavy sigh, but her reply will remain the same. She wouldn’t trade the title Mom for the world, even on her child’s worst day. Just take a look at some of these real-life examples to see what we mean.
One mom of two, ages 4 and 5, had this to say when asked what she finds the hardest, yet most rewarding part of being a mom.
“I find disciplining them really hard. Sometimes you just want to give in and make peace, but when you hold out, they really start to get it and become better people.
I also love answering their questions, but find them challenging at times. They ask me what certain words mean or why something is a certain way. Often, they're asking about things no 4 or 5 year old should be concerned with. Not that they're taboo things or anything, just complex things that are tough to explain.”
Here’s what another mom of 2, ages 9 and 1, feels makes it all worthwhile.
“The other day my 21 month old was testing every thing with Mom. Getting into things he knew he shouldn't be, throwing tantrums and refusing to take his nap. You name it he was trying his hardest to see how far he could get with me. Needless to say, no work got done that day, the house was a disaster and this mama needed a break! I was almost ready to give up and say "Oh go ahead and tear all the DVDs off the shelf and have fun! Then, he came running up to me with the biggest smile on his face and his arms outstretched and gave me a big hug, patted my back and puckered his lips for a kiss! My heart melted, I smiled back, gave him a kiss and told him I loved him while all the stress and built up frustration of the day melted away!”
Being a mother is the toughest job any woman will ever have, but it also takes top honors as the most satisfying. There is nothing else in life that can make a woman ready to pull her hair out and scream, while evoking an extreme feeling of love at the exact same moment in time.
Moms invest so much in their children, most of which goes unnoticed until they are older. She gets tired, but never gives up because she knows the rewards for her perseverance will be awesome.
A mother’s work is never complete. Even when her children are grown and have children of their own she wouldn’t want it any other way.
Find family friendly product reviews, information and support from a variety of different moms from all walks of life at Moms Talk Network News. Join us, it’s Free!
Date: 10/21/2007
Title: Conquering Toddler Separation Anxiety
Most moms feel like they will never want to let their precious baby out of their sight when they're born. Life usually offers up a few stumbling blocks in this area, whether Mom has to go back to work or just wants to take a much needed break and go to the grocery store on her own.
Somewhere around 18 months to two years of age even well adjusted toddlers may experience fear about being separated from his or her primary caregiver. This separation anxiety is made worse by the fact that the child is too young to express his fear is words and usually resorts to full out screaming and crying when faced with letting Mom go.
If you are armed with the knowledge that this is a normal phase that most toddlers go through, you won't end up feeling helpless and you'll be able to respond to your child's fear calmly and reassuringly.
If you've rarely ever left your child with someone else or need to go back to work, it's best to start preparing your toddler for this process in advance. You can do this by slowly allowing your toddler to stay with other people for short periods of time.
Decide how and how far in advance you will let your child know that you are leaving. Decide on the best way to say good-bye. Never just disappear; this will create even more anxiety for your child. It's always best to be honest with your child, give him a big hug and kiss and calmly leave.
Another good tip is to act positively and happily (even though you may feel completely different inside). This will help your toddler feel reassurance and know that there is no need to worry mommy will be back in a little while.
To receive more free toddler tips Click Here
Date: 10/21/2007
Title: Pregnancy Tips for a Healthy Weight Gain
Gaining weight during pregnancy is necessary for the baby inside of you to thrive. While you do need to gain weight, gaining too much weight can lead to other issues during pregnancy. Learn how to gain weight gradually and stay within recommended limits.
Ever heard of the adage, “I’m eating for two”? This is a common misconception that has lead to many women gaining too much weight during pregnancy. It is not necessary to eat for two people to keep your baby healthy.
How much weight you should gain during pregnancy depends on your pre-pregnancy weight. If you are within the healthy weight range for your age and height, the most you should gain is around thirty-five pounds. If you are underweight before pregnancy, you can stand to gain a bit more, but only five pounds or so above the upper limit for normal weight women. A weight gain of twenty-five pounds is suitable for obese pregnant women.
It takes the same amount of calories to gain a pound when you are pregnant as it did when you were not. If your eating habits were good before pregnancy, keep up the good work. Don’t use pregnancy as an excuse to eat unhealthy foods. The weight will add up.
Your weight gain equates to about one to two pounds a week starting in the second trimester. Weight gain in the first trimester should stay within a five pound limit. For women that experience morning sickness, this may be harder than it seems.
You want your weight to increase at a steady rate. Slow weight gain can reduce the chances of certain symptoms during pregnancy. Backache, varicose veins, stretch marks, heartburn, and shortness of breath are decreased with lower weight gains.
Gaining too much weight can increase certain risk factors for pregnant mothers. Women who are already overweight or gain too much weight are at risk for gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and difficulties during labor and delivery. Any of these factors can affect the unborn fetus as well.
If it has been confirmed that you are carrying more than one baby, your weight gain will increase. Talk with your obstetrician to find out exactly how much additional weight you will need to gain. It will be more than normal by about ten pounds.
Don’t skip meals when you are pregnant. Nibbling on good foods throughout the day will keep you from feeling hungry. If you have trouble gaining weight, choose foods that are high in good fats like nuts, salmon, and avocados.
Pregnancy is a glorious time. Weight gain maintains healthy growth for your baby. Too much weight, however, can create a problem for mother and baby.
Grab your free Pregnancy Tips that will help ease your mind..and body from moms who’ve been there and know what you’re going through, every step of the way.
Date: 9/30/2007
Title: ATTN: WAHM'S!
Hi fellow WAHM's! Have you been desperately wanting to start your own blog for your site like I have?!? Well, I found this awesome contest (crossing my fingers and hoping I win!!!) where you too can have a chance to win a FREE blogger template design courtesy of Splat Designs. Hurry on over and sign up!
Susan
Date: 7/2/2007
Title: Fourth of July Craft Ideas for Kids:
Independence Day is a fun summer holiday, full of festivals, fireworks, and other activities. It is also a tribute to the beginnings of our country. Fourth of July crafts are an entertaining way for kids to commemorate the anniversary of our independence. Here are some ideas.
Windsocks are a fun and attractive outdoor decoration. They are also easy to make. All you need is an oatmeal box, some white and blue construction paper, red and white streamers, scissors, and glue. Cut the end out of the oatmeal box and cover it with blue construction paper, and cut out stars from the white construction paper to glue on. Then cut some red and white streamers to the same length, and glue them to one end. Tie some string to the other end for hanging.
Girls can make themselves some patriotic hair accessories for the occasion. Just buy some plain barrettes, red, white, or blue yarn, and patriotic beads or buttons from the craft store. Wrap yarn tightly around the barrette, and glue each end to the back. Then attach some beads or buttons, or make a bow out of some more yarn for a simple but pretty hair bow.
Fireworks are a favorite on the Fourth of July. You can make a unique fireworks picture with some crayons and white paper. First, use lots of different colors to make a pattern all over the paper. Color darkly. Then get a black crayon, and color over the whole piece of paper darkly. Use a paper clip to scratch off a fireworks design, and you will have a colorful picture of fireworks in the night sky.
Fourth of July parades are great, but think of the fun the kids could have by having their own parade! They can decorate their bikes with red, white, and blue crepe paper and tape. Then they will need some patriotic costumes. If they have some holiday-appropriate clothes that’s great, but if not they can easily paint some stars and stripes on an old t-shirt with fabric paint. Make your own flags and signs with paper and markers. Gather up some toy or makeshift musical instruments, stick horses, and a few flags, and you can have an awesome parade right in your own backyard.
The Fourth of July is a great time for summer crafts. These are only a few of the many items that kids could make for the occasion. Once you get them started, they will likely think of many more creative ideas on their own. Make sure you have the basics such as construction paper, scissors, glue, art supplies, and some craft sticks on hand, and you’ll be surprised what they will come up with.
Cut the stress and increase the fun for your next holiday celebration. Sign up for your free holiday tips just for moms and their families.
Date: 7/2/2007
Title: Family 4th of July Celebration
Creating A Great Family 4th Of July Celebration
July 4th is a day to celebrate independence and have a great family get-together. Enlist the aid of the entire family to make the celebration the best so far. Below are some tips for decorating and food that will help you to fashion your own gathering.
We already know the colors for the event—red, white, and blue. Trying to use them in new ways will get a few “oohs” and “aahs” from the guests. A basic white tablecloth on the picnic or patio table allows you to add more red and blue in the items on the table without making it look too busy. Separating paper plates in a dish rack on the party table will keep them on the table and ensure that everyone gets a single plate.
Give each guest a personalized drink cup. Red, white, and blue ribbon can be taped around each cup. Let the kids write the name of each guest on a ribbon with a fine-tip marker. Filling each cup with a napkin, a straw, and utensils will eliminate the need to set these items out on the table in other places.
Children can help decorate the outside of the house or the front porch to welcome guests to your home. Fashion a starred wreath for the front door of the house. Use a basic wreath form that can be found at any craft store. Have the children cut out large and small stars to cover the wreath. In the center of the wreath put a banner that reads, “Happy 4th of July!”
Small flags can also be used to decorate the tables in the back yard. Stick them in glass bowls that have been filled with red, white, and blue balls. After the meal, the kids can each get a couple of the small rubber balls and play.
Food for the celebration should be light and full of flavor. It wouldn’t be a party without hamburgers. If you have vegetarians at the party, offer them veggie burgers as an alternative to the traditional beef. For less fat, use the leanest hamburger you can find. Add diced onions and green peppers to the burger mix.
Serve a host of delicious vegetables on the side. For kids who love finger food, have a raw vegetable tray and dips available. Make your own potato wedges using russets and sweet potatoes. Grilled corn on the cob is juicy and tender. The corn grills right in its own husk.
Whatever you decide to serve, make the most of the occasion with family and friends. Create fond memories that will be talked about until next year’s celebration.
Cut the stress and increase the fun for your next holiday celebration. Sign up for your free holiday tips just for moms and their families.
Date: 7/2/2007
Title: Pregnant in the Summer?
Beating The Heat When You’re Pregnant In Summer
The heat in the summertime can be quite unbearable for the average person. When you are pregnant, the discomfort increases tenfold. Learn how to beat the heat and stay safe while you are pregnant.
The first thing to remember is to avoid overexertion. When the temperature rises, it takes less effort to make one tired. If a trip to the grocery store leaves you feeling drained, a few minutes on the couch with your feet propped up is well deserved.
Read the entire article HERE...
Date: 6/17/2007
Title: Slash Your Grocery Bills
Are you looking for a great way to save money on your groceries? A Menu Planning Service can come to the rescue. These ingenious services help you plan, save on grocery costs and manage your dinner meals simply and easily.
Menu Planning services provide moms with a simple to follow dinner menu for each week. Not only do you get awesome dinner meal ideas including main dishes, side dishes and desserts that are satisfying, simple to prepare and healthy, but you also get a personalized grocery list to simply shop for the ingredients for the upcoming week. You can save loads of money, because when you know which meals you will be preparing and which ingredients you will need you won’t wastefully purchase ingredients and items that are not required.
Many people spend hundreds of dollars each year buying food ingredients that they don’t need. In many cases foods are wasted, because they sit around not being used in any meals you prepare. Once you find a meal idea for these ingredients, they are usually too old, spoiled or stale.
By utilizing a menu planning service you will also save on fast food and casual dining restaurant bills. Many families become frustrated when there is no food in their refrigerator. Instead of preparing a healthy and low cost meal at home, they opt for the ease of visiting fast food and casual dining restaurants that can easily cost $20, $50, $100 or more. If you are looking for a reason to keep you at home rather than at high priced restaurants, a meal planning service is an affordable and practical solution.
Another way you can reap the rewards from menu planning is with all the time you will save. Now that everything is planned out for you, you won’t have to spend time each day running back and forth to the grocery store to buy needed food items, you can have your whole week's meals planned out and have a comfortable and relaxing time at home with your family.
If you are looking for an awesome way to save on your grocery bills, check out a menu planning service:
Yes, you can cook a wholesome meal for your family any night of the week. All you need is a little menu planning help. Start by grabbing your free Menu Planning Basics guide at Menu Planning Central and watch for an incredible offer to get access to Menu Planning Central.
Date: 5/31/2007
Title: Quick & Cool Meals
Quick & Cool Meals – Don’t Slave Over a Hot Stove When the Weather is Hot
When it gets warm outside, no one wants to stay in the kitchen. Also, the heat diminishes the appetite for heavy foods. Give that stove a rest and turn to lighter meals that are quick and easy.
During the spring and summer, farmer’s markets and grocery stores are teeming with fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are simple yet healthy foods. Most need little preparation to make them yummy.
Use these items to fashion meals for your family. Very little prep time is involved and everyone gets a cool treat. Use spices to add zest to the meal instead of heavy sauces and marinades.
Salads are big when the weather is warm. Lettuce comes in a variety of shapes and tastes. It can be used as a base or as a part of the salad.
If lettuce is an integral part of your salad, don’t drown the taste with too much salad dressing. Purchase or make your own oil and vinegar dressing for salads. Oil and vinegar gives a light taste and you can add spices to the dressing for different flavors.
Lettuce can also be a platform from which to build another type of salad. Macaroni, chicken, turkey, shrimp, and potato salads are popular meal ideas when it gets hot. The salads include meat, vegetables, and starch for a complete meal.
Most meats can be purchased already cooked. For potato salad, you can buy it from the store or boil the potatoes yourself. If you choose to boil them, make sure that you boil enough for several salads.
Macaroni salad is a lunch (with fruit) or dinner (alone) choice that is filling. Begin by boiling the macaroni, depending on the size of your family, six to eight cups of macaroni should be enough for a large salad. While the macaroni cooks, chop up boiled eggs and drain two cans of chunk tuna in water. Boiled eggs are another food that can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you need them.
If you like onions, mince a half to a whole medium onion. Set all of these things aside. When the macaroni is cooled, add the chopped eggs, onions, tuna, and relish to the macaroni. Finally, add a cup of mayonnaise (can use light or fat free) and half a cup of mustard to the bowl. Mix thoroughly and chill.
Good meals don’t have to be made in a hot kitchen using the oven. Ingredients for quick meals are as close as your grocery store and take little time to prepare. Your family will be happy, healthy, and asking for more.
Find family friendly product reviews, information and support from a variety of different moms from all walks of life at Moms Talk News. Join us, it’s Free!
Date: 5/31/2007
Title: Creative Father's Day Gifts Your Kids Can Make
Dads are special people. They are toy repairmen, givers of piggyback rides, and pitchers in backyard softball games. They provide for the family and keep the kids laughing. For all they do, they deserve something special for Father’s Day.
Of course Dad needs a card for his big day. Most kids love to make cards, so get them some construction paper, scissors, glue, and crayons or markers and let their imaginations run wild. They can also decorate the card with stickers. If you have some family pictures that they could cut out and glue on, they can add a great personal touch. The more creative they get, the more it will mean to Dad.
Hand decorated picture frames are an easy and thoughtful gift to make. There are many different ways to make these. You could buy a picture frame and let the kids paint it any way they wish, and maybe add stickers. Four craft sticks can also be glued in a square shape to make one completely from scratch. Then glue the edges of the picture to the back of the finished frame, and glue a cardboard back on if desired. For younger kids, a less messy option would be to cut out a frame from construction paper, then use crayons, markers, or stickers to decorate.
Custom t-shirts are a fun activity, and can make a great gift for Father’s Day. Light colored shirts work the best. If you would like to add a photo to Dad’s special shirt, you can do so easily with iron-on creator software, a printer, and iron-on transfer paper. Dad would surely love to have a shirt with a picture of his little angels on it. Let the kids pick out the picture and any graphics to go with it, then Mom can do the ironing. Fabric paints can add a decorative touch. Just make sure you cover the workspace with newspaper before turning the kids loose with them.
For business dads, a pencil holder would be an ideal gift. These can be made out of empty cake icing containers or old cups. Cover the container with felt or construction paper, and cut out designs from either material to glue on. Markers or stickers can also be used to decorate. If Dad is a sports fan, you could use his favorite sport as a theme.
Handmade gifts are a wonderful way to show Dad how much he is loved. They are also a great project for the kids. With a few inexpensive materials and some creativity, they can make Dad a Father’s Day gift that he will cherish for years to come.
Cut the stress and increase the fun for your next holiday celebration. Sign up for your free holiday tips just for moms and their families.
Date: 4/24/2007
Title: Mother's Day Craft and Recipe Ideas for the kids!
 Let's get ready for Mother's Day! Download this FREE e-book, full of great crafts and recipes you can make with your children to get ready to celebrate YOU MOM!
Download your FREE copy of the Mother's Day e-book HERE.
Once you download this free e-book, print out a copy and leave it for your hubby! He will have fun with the kids working on the fun craft ideas and recipes to spoil you Mom on your special day!
Hope you enjoy this great e-book and have lots of fun with all the ideas inside!
Susan
Date: 4/24/2007
Title: Make Mother's Day Easy For You
Mother’s Day is a time for moms to sit back, relax, and enjoy a special day, courtesy of the kids. But some mothers have trouble doing that. They have their own moms to buy gifts for and pamper, and the kids can’t take care of themselves, and dinner won’t cook itself. Does this sound familiar? Here are some ways that you can make the most of Mother’s Day and enjoy it to the fullest.
Do your Mother’s Day shopping early to avoid last-minute stress. Put some thought into her gift and get her something that she can truly enjoy. If you have the time, a hand-made scrapbook is a particularly heartwarming gift. If you’re a busy lady, taking the time to cook Mom her favorite meal would be a thoughtful gesture. Flowers are also a beautiful way to show your mom how much you care.
Don’t forget about Grandma and Mother-in-Law! They deserve something special on this day, too. If you’re having trouble with gift ideas, get them some great-smelling bath products or foot the bill for a manicure or a day at the spa. Moms don’t get pampered nearly as often as they should, and when they do it is something to truly appreciate.
You could also take any of the special moms in your life out to eat at their favorite restaurants. But make sure that your family doesn’t have something similar planned at the same time. Mention it to them ahead of time, and if they give hints that they’ve got something up their sleeve, rethink your plans. If there is conflict, you could do lunch instead of dinner, or even do it the night before. It’s important to make Mom, Grandma, and Mother-in-Law feel special, but your kids want the opportunity to do something for you, too.
If you have small children, be sure to find special ways to include them in your day. They may be too young to understand Mother’s Day yet, but they will know that something special is in the air and want to be a part of it. You could help them do some age-appropriate crafts, or simply spend some special time with them one-on-one. If the weather is nice, take them for a stroll in the park or pick flowers with them. Not only will you be making sure that the little ones are included, you will be making special memories with them. And what could be more appropriate for Mother’s Day?
If you have older children, it never hurts to drop a hint or two about what would make your day the best Mother’s Day ever. You could tell them how much you love that certain dish they cook, or that watching the younger kids while you relax would be a welcome break. You are a mom, and you deserve a great day just like your mom does. If you put ideas out there, you just might be pleasantly surprised.
Moms deserve at least one special day a year to rest and truly enjoy themselves. Be sure to honor your mom and the other special moms in your life, but don’t forget to enjoy the day yourself.
Cut the stress and increase the fun for your next holiday celebration. Sign up for your free holiday tips just for moms and their families.
Date: 4/19/2007
Title: Babies Galore eBook - Get your FREE Copy!
Sweet-Pea-Creations is excited to be featured in the Babies Galore eBook.
 Babies Galore - The ULTIMATE book for all things baby! Download your FREE copy of Babies Galore now!
This eBook is a FREE download, full of great resources on many topics including natural Parenting, child safety, pregnancy, baby showers, and FREE stuff for moms and coupon offers!
The download is available using Adobe Reader. If you are unable to open the eBook or do not have Adobe Reader, download it here for free:
Adobe Reader Free Download
Enjoy!
Susan
Date: 4/9/2007
Title: Tips for Cleaning your Carpets
Having just purchased a new carpet for the living room, there is always that feeling of what if…! A living room is meant to be lived in; just because a new carpet has been installed doesn’t mean the room should to be roped off and only used on certain occasions. There will be the occasional spills. In order to avoid any accumulation of dust or other foreign matters, here are tips for cleaning your carpet.
* Vacuum often
* If you spill anything on the carpet; take a paper towel and pat down on the spill until it is absorbed onto the paper towel. This is the best method to help remove spills, but if you find yourself with a stubborn stain, the best product I have found to clean up stains is Spot Shot (the Professional version works best in my opinion and you can find it at a GREAT price at Costco or Sam's Club).
* Whenever possible, use door mats to have your family wipe their shoes so nothing is tracked onto the carpet.
* If you choose to have your carpet shampooed; be sure to ask if the scotch guard will be removed in the process.
* Do not allow any family member to eat in the living room. (Ok, as a mom with 2 children, we don't always live by this rule...but we try ;-) )
While these are just a few tips for cleaning your carpets, you may certainly have your own tried and tested methods to keep your carpet clean. Preventative measures are the best way to avoid soiling your new carpet.
Buying a new carpet is an expensive undertaking. To ensure it is kept as pristine as possible, you can use these tips for cleaning your carpets. However, as mentioned earlier your home is meant to be lived in; so accidental spills will happen. Don’t stress over it. Just attend to the spillage as soon as possible and set some ground rules for the entire family.
To see MORE great Spring Cleaning Tips, visit Two Moms In A Blog. Submit your own Spring Cleaning Tip and get a chance to WIN a a $25 Barnes & Noble Gift Certificate for a book of your choice to sit and read in your new, clean house:) (Courtesy of Two Moms in a Blog).
Happy Cleaning!
Susan
Date: 4/3/2007
Title: Healthy Easter Treats For Kids
Easter is right around the corner, and that of course means plenty of
candy and treats for the kids. Not only does the Easter bunny bring
sweets in the form of chocolate bunnies and eggs and of course the
always popular marshmallow peeps, but the kids also receive plenty of
candy at school and from grandparents. As parents, we want to provide
our kids with some healthy alternatives to all this candy for Easter.
Not only is it better for our little ones, it also eliminates the
constant whining for candy, or the stack of sweets that
lasts until Halloween.
What can you do as a parent to switch out some of the sugary treats with
healthier alternatives? Quite a bit and we have compiled some of our
favorite ideas to get you started. Read through the suggestions below
and feel free to adapt and change things around to make it work for your
family.
Treasure Hunt
Start by making an Easter basket that you fill with inexpensive outdoor
toys. These could include jump ropes, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, gardening
tools and various balls or Frisbees. Other ideas are water bottles, bike
accessories (like a basket or a new helmet) and new sandbox toys. Of
course you can also include a few markers or crayons to use inside for
rainy days.
Now it's time to hide the Easter basket and set up a treasure hunt for
the kids. You can draw a map where x marks the spot where you hid the
basket, or set up a series of hidden clues for the kids to follow. The
hunt itself will be just as much fun as receiving all the fun outdoor
gifts.
Egg Filler Ideas
Plastic Easter eggs that you can fill yourself are another great idea
for healthy Easter treats. You can fill these eggs with small toys, a
few coins or even a couple of crayons. A pack of stickers is another
favorite in our house. Of course you can also fill these plastic eggs
with some edible treats. Add a handful of nuts, or some dried fruit.
One of our favorites is some homemade trail mix from dry cereal, nuts,
dried fruits and a few M&Ms.
Party Treats
If you are having a family get together or a party this Easter, try some
of these healthy Easter treats and desserts. Make some egg shaped jello
jigglers using egg shaped molds that you can find at most grocery stores
this time of the year. Fill Easter themed bags with plain popcorn and of
course set out some baby carrots that the kids can nibble on. They'll
love eating "just like bunnies".
The Easy Way Out.
Even if you don't have much time to prepare homemade treats, you can
keep Easter healthy by making the right choices. Even retail stores are
catching on to the idea that parents want healthy treats. Our local
Wal-Mart carries plastic eggs prefilled with healthy treats, along with
alternatives such as matchbox cars, silly putty and bracelets. In the
Easter Basket provide a stuffed animal, toy, clothing, hair clips,
coloring books or other fun items that you know your child will enjoy.
Make a tradition
Ask the grandparents and other relatives who usually bring a treat, to
bring an Easter-themed book instead that your kids can enjoy for years
to come. Our family has a stash for both Christmas and Easter that we
pull out for the designated season and the kids always look forward to it.
Of course Easter isn't the only time to eat healthy. Cook a healthy meal for your family every single day and enjoy more time with your kids instead of planning what you will cook that night. Join the Healthy Menu Mailer and receive 7 healthy dinner recipes a week with a grocery list to go along with it. We make Healthy Menu Planning easy and save you time and money along the way.
Date: 4/1/2007
Title: Want to win a new Dyson Slim Vacuum???
Would you LOVE to win the new Dyson Slim Vacuum? Then QUICK, head on over to 5 Minutes For Mom to enter to win! Entries are being accepted thru April 4th at 1:00 p.m. EST.
A HUGE THANK YOU to 5 Minutes for Mom and Dyson for sponsoring this awesome giveaway!
Keeping my fingers crossed....I have been wanting a Dyson for just about forever now ;-)
Susan
Date: 3/15/2007
Title: St. Patrick's Day is Coming...
St. Patrick's Day is Coming. Can you get Your Kids to Eat their Greens?
Brought to you by Kid Approved Meals
Weekly Breakfast and Lunch Menus Moms and Kids Love!
Take time this St. Patrick's Day to get some green foods into your kids (and, no, I'm not talking about cupcakes with green frosting). ;)
Create an entire "green" meal for your kids, in honor of the leprechauns.
Here are some ideas:
Broccoli with Ranch dressing (or Green dressing)
Sliced Kiwi
Avocados
Asparagus
Green apple slices
Green grapes
Cucumber slices
Peas or Snow Pea Pods
Green Beans
Have fun with it -- and be proud of your kids, especially if they are normally picky eaters -- if they try several of the foods you've offered them.
We hope you enjoy your green meal! (And, thank you, again, to Kid Approved Meals for giving us the ideas!)
Susan
Date: 2/13/2007
Title: New Pink and Brown Dots paper style
Just added a new paper style. Pink and brown are a hot new color combination and we are excited to have found a new paper style that features pink dots on a brown background.
Vellum and Ribbon Birth Announcement with Pink and Brown Dots
Date: 1/22/2007
Title: Gorgeous way to package a baby shower gift!
I just wanted to tell you all about this idea I found over on Two Moms In A Blog. It is the most adorable decorated tin bucket. When I saw it, I thought...this would be an awesome way to package up a baby shower gift! Simply decorate the outside of the bucket with baby themed papers and embellishments, fill the bucket with little baby supplies like onesies, receiving blankets, pacifiers, sleepers etc. And don't forget to add a set of our Thank You Cards for the mom-to-be! Then tie with a big pretty bow and your gift will outshine all gifts at the shower! ;-) It will be useful to the mom-to-be too after she has put all the cute little baby gifts away in their drawers etc. The bucket can be displayed on baby's dresser to hold neccessities like combs, clippers, pacifiers etc. That way those tiny little baby things will always have a place and never get lost, and mom will always have a beautiful reminder of her special day!
For complete instructions and a photo of a sample tin bucket, visit this post over at Two Moms In a Blog.
This has got to be one of the CUTEST ideas I have seen in a long time! And you are not just limited to just a baby shower design. This bucket can be decorated in many different ways. Make one for yourself to keep your desk supplies organized. Make a valentines themed one and fill it with your hubby's fave candies. The possibilities are endless! Oh, so many ideas are coming to mind...I am going to get busy making one of these for myself ;-)
Have fun with this project!
P.S. These Hip Pregnant Mom Note Cards would make a great addition to your baby shower gift!
Susan
Date: 1/18/2007
Title: Sweet-Pea-Creations Newsletter
Well, it's finally here...the Sweet-Pea-Creations Newsletter! When you subscribe to our newsletter, you will see what's new, and receive sales and discounts available ONLY to you our subscriber. Get great articles, tips and advice on topics from pregnancy, parenting, hosting a baby shower, adoption and so much more. Recipes - family friendly, tried and LOVED by my own family. Product reviews on must have products for mom, baby and your family. And finally, giveaways and freebies!
So sign up today and watch your mail box for the 1st edition of Sweet-Pea-Creations Newsletter!
Subscribe to Sweet Pea Creations Newsletter
Date: 1/18/2007
Title: New Valentine's Birth Announcements and Note Cards Added!
Just added a few new Valentine's theme Birth Announcements and matching Note Cards. These are adorable...check them out!
Sweetheart Baby Girl Birth Announcement
Sweetheart Note Card
Love Note Baby Girl Birth Announcement
Love Note Baby Girl Note Card
Love Note Baby Boy Birth Announcement
Love Note Baby Boy Note Card
They're all so sweet, it's hard to choose which one is my fave!
Susan
Date: 1/10/2007
Title: New recipe to share!
Hello to all!
I just wanted to share this recipe that was given to me by a customer of ours. This was so simple to make and really yummy! My family really loved it, and I loved how simple and quick it was to make. We skipped the salad because frankly my kids will NOT eat salad and I didn't have any fresh salad makings on hand (I make what I have IN the house to save trips to the grocery store and to keep from spending more money at the store than what I planned---you know, that bag of chips & cookies that just SCREAM at you when you pass by those junk food aisles LOL!)
I served it with Scalloped Potatoes and Green Beans (my kids FAVES)
Parmesan chicken
--this recipe serves 6, so adjust according to your family's needs!
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (slice them down the middle so each breast
yields two "breasts". This will make a thinner breast, one that is quicker
to cook and that ends up yummier, with crispier edges.
1 c all-purpose flour
1 t kosher salt
1/2 t freshly ground black pepper
2 XL eggs
1 1/3 c seasoned dry bread crumbs (I use 4C brand, which has grated parmesan and romano cheese already in it
unsalted butter
olive oil
On a big piece of wax paper combine flour, salt, pepper onto a mound. make a second mound next to it with bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. In a wide bowl, breat the eggs, 1T water, a little salt and pepper. Coat chicken breastss on both sides with flour mixture, then dip both sides into egg misture, then dredge both sides into bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly.
Heat 1 T butter and 1T olive oil in a large saute pan. Cook 2-3 breasts on medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Add more butter and oil and cook the rest of the breasts (sometimes I have to wipe out the pan if the oil/butter got too hot, so watch heat carefully!).
While this cooks, toss greens with this dressing:
1/4 c freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
1/2 c good olive oil
1/2 t kosher salt
1/4 t fresh ground pepper
whisk together and drizzle over greens. use left overs to drizzle over chicken.
ENJOY!
Submitted by:
Cristina R.
Thanks so much Cristina for sharing this with me! It will definately be added to the dinnertime rotation!
Also wanted to add, there are so many possibilities with this chicken. I can imagine topping the cooked chicken breasts with a little of my homemade spaghetti sauce, some mozarella cheese and serving over spaghetti or fettucini noodles; easy chicken parmigiana! YUMMY!
Hope you enjoy this easy dinner as much as we did!
Susan
Date: 1/10/2007
Title: So many new styles to share!
Ok, so my creative juices have been flowing. And now that my 3 yr old son is in school in the mornings, I have a little more time to work on new designs. So I just wanted to share with you what is new this week!
For those Feburary and Valentine's babies...
Bee Mine Valentine's Baby Boy Birth Announcement
Bee Mine Valentine's Note Card
And finally, the Sweet Dots line of birth announcements. These are so simple and sweet and available in Pink, Blue, Yellow or Mint dots. Perfect for your baby boy, baby girl, twins and multiples! These can also be customized for ANY occasion...birth announcements, adoption announcements, baby shower invitations, or any occasion you need to announce!
Sweet Dots Baby Girl Birth Announcement
Sweet Dots Baby Boy Birth Announcement
Also available in Mint and Yellow.
Matching note cards will be added soon!
Susan
Date: 1/3/2007
Title: Yummy recipe that I just HAVE to share!
Ok, I am in a cooking rut. I have certain meals that I make over and over. Maybe it is because I KNOW my family will actually eat them, or maybe because I am afraid to experiment (I hate rejection and hate the thought that my family won't like something I worked so hard on). So a couple weeks ago I came across allrecipes.com while looking for a really good rolled sugar cookie recipe (found one there!). That site is great! Loads of great recipes and the best part is that people who have actually made the recipes post their reviews and what they did differently.
Then I came across this recipe for Angel Chicken Pasta. It has TONS and TONS of rave reviews, yet alot of the reviewers had changed up the recipe a little. So I figured why not try it and change it up to suit my family. Why change it??? Because the original has alot of strong flavors that my picky family probably won't like (white wine, chives, golden mushroom soup), but with some modifications, I knew they would love it. Here is the link to the original recipe:
Angel Chicken Pasta
And here is my version:
Susan's version of Angel Chicken Pasta
* 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into cubes
* Olive Oil
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/2 package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
* 4 ounces cream cheese, slightly softened and cubed
* 1/2 pound angel hair pasta
*Veggies of choice--I used broccoli florets and shredded carrots, fresh mushrooms would be great too!
Start your pot of water for your pasta.
In a large skillet over med-high heat, brown the cubed chicken breast in some olive oil, season lightly as desired (I seasoned it with a spice called Montanna Seasoning which contains Salt, pepper, garlic & onion powder). You could also use fresh garlic & a little salt & pepper, but don't over do it since the Italian salad dressing mix will provide lots of salt & flavor and there is plenty of salt in the broth & cr. of mushroom soup (feel free to substitute with low sodium versions). Remove from pan and keep warm in aluminum foil, set aside.
Add butter to pan and melt over med-low heat. If adding fresh veggies, this would be a good time to add the shredded carrots and mushrooms and sautee for a couple minutes.
Add dressing mix, cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth and stir to combine.
Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
Return the chicken to the pan, bring back to heat (but do not boil). Once at a light simmer, lower heat and cover and continue cooking on a low simmer until chicken is cooked through, this should take around 10 minutes.
When your pasta water is to a boil, season with salt. Add broccoli florets (if desired) and cook for a couple minutes (my family likes their broccoli really soft so I give the broccoli extra time, if you like yours crisp-tender, add the same time as the pasta instead). Then add the angel hair pasta and boil for 4-5 min until cooked al-dente. Drain and toss with chicken & sauce mix and serve immediately.
At the table add parmasean cheese to the top if desired! (I personally skip the parmasean since it is a good flavor without it!)
Experiement with this recipe and make it your own. Skip the veggies and serve them on the side (I have to put veggies in our meals to get my kids to eat their veggies!), or serve with a nice dinner salad and some crusty bread. Try different types of pasta like fettucini, bow ties, or rotini. Have fun with it and enjoy!!! This meal will definately be served often in our home.
And if your family likes really bold flavors, check out the original recipe posted on allrecipes.com. The direct link to the original recipe is posted above. But I found it much quicker to make it this way, and the flavors are much more subtle and "kid friendly"!
Enjoy!
Susan
Date: 1/2/2007
Title: Now offering Gift Certificates!
Sweet-Pea-Creations Gift Certificates are now available! Gift certificates make great baby shower gifts for the expecting mom! Our certificates can be mailed or emailed directly to you, or to the recipient. And shipping on gift certificates whether emailed or sent via US Postal Service is always FREE!
Date: 1/1/2007
Title: Just added Baby Boy Valentines Birth announcement and Note Card
Just added a Valentine's Bear Baby Boy Birth Announcement and matching Note / Thank You Card!
Valentine's Bear Baby Boy Birth Announcement
Valentine's Bear Baby Boy Thank You - Note Card
Susan
Date: 12/31/2006
Title: What's New??? Valentine's Baby Birth Announcements!
Look what's new at Sweet-Pea-Creations! Adorable birth announcement and matching note card specially for those sweet lil' Valentine's babies! I just finished this one today, and it is so cute. Features an adorable little Angel Bear with floating hearts, perfect to announce your February baby. And don't forget the matching Thank You / Note cards!
Valentine's Bear Baby Girl Birth Announcement
Valentine's Bear Baby Girl Thank You - Note Card
Check back for more Valentine birth announcement styles for both baby boy and baby girl, baby shower invites and more note cards, they will be coming soon!
Susan
Date: 12/30/2006
Title: New Year’s Resolution – Weight Loss
Next to quitting smoking, weight loss is the most popular New Year’s
Resolution. Many of us will sit down December 31st and vow to finally shed
all that extra weight this coming year. A few of us will succeed, but for
most of us the good intentions and efforts will be gone by the time March
rolls around.
Should we just give up and resolve to the fact that we just don’t have
what it takes to stick to a weight loss program? That we just can’t take
starving ourselves and working out for hours each day? Not at all! You can
lose weight this year, you just may have to change your approach to the
whole “weight loss” thing a little.
Why do we fail? We live in a fast pace society and expect results right
away – yesterday if possible. We approach weight loss the same way. We are
looking for that miracle pill, or the crash diet that allows us to lose 10
pounds every three days. It may work for the first few days, when we lose
lots of excess water our body has stored, but this is no long-term weight
loss strategy. Your weight loss will slow down, you get frustrated, and
before you know it you are giving up.
The solution is simple – Take a more natural approach to weight loss. That
means making small changes that you can stick with that will result in
weight loss – but it will happen slowly over time. Start preparing
healthier meals and cut out some of the high calorie snacks and drinks you
have been enjoying. Replace that candy bar with an apple, the super-sized
burger meal with a grilled chicken salad. Small changes like this will
result in quite a bit of weight loss over time. You are creating habits
that you can stick with the rest of your life.
In addition to watching what you eat and changing your eating habits
accordingly, you should also aim for 30 minutes of physical exercise a
day. This can be as simple as going for a walk through your neighborhood
after dinner, or chasing the kids around the yard. Take a dance class,
join a gym or go for a swim. Come up with a few activities you enjoy and
make it a habit to move around at least 30 minutes a day.
Here is one more habit you should try to incorporate into your life –
Drink eight glasses of water a day. Hardly anyone drinks the amount of
water our bodies need to function properly. Headaches, tiredness and
feeling hungry when we are actually thirsty are all side effects of this
slight dehydration. Not only will you avoid eating when you are actually
thirsty, but drinking plenty of water also helps our body get rid of
excess body fat.
Incorporate healthy eating, exercise and drinking plenty of water into
your weight loss New Year’s resolution and you will be much more likely to
succeed this year.
Would you like some additional help changing to a healthy eating lifestyle
this year? Visit Healthy Menu Mailer for a weekly healthy menu with
categorized grocery list, support forum, and recipe database.
Date: 12/30/2006
Title: Adorable new Baby Blocks Birth Announcements and Note Cards!
Just added a new fun style birth announcement and matching note cards. Baby Blocks Birth Announcement and matching Thank You card, in both baby boy and baby girl styles.
Baby Blocks Boy Birth Announcement
Baby Blocks Girl Thank You - Note Card
Susan
Date: 12/1/2006
Title: I can't wait for christmas!!!!
If many of you are like me, your homes are already decorated for christmas! I love the holiday season. The colorful lights, the adorable decorations, putting up our christmas tree with my family and remembering moments from christmas's past with every ornament we pull out and put on the tree. I have so many ornaments passed down to me from my mom which bring back so many happy memories, and all the new ornaments that I have bought for my children, husband and ornaments received from special family members. That had to be the best part about decorating...sharing a little memory with my daughter about each and every ornament she placed upon our tree (and then I went back and re-arranged later LOL!).
And for the first time in 4 years, we finally put lights on the outside of our house and shrubs, and added a few new lawn decorations. My father-in-law said our home looks like a gingerbread house! That truly brought a smile to my face.
I love the spirit of christmas and everything it means. Family, friends, sharing holiday traditions with my children.
And oh, my kids are so excited! My daughter is 4 and she is just starting to understand the excitement of Christmas! We are working on teaching her that Christmas is about so much more than "Santa Claus" and presents. It is about the story of Jesus's birth, and family, and traditions etc.
So today I came across a GREAT site.
Waiting For Christmas
Remember how hard it was as a child to wait most of December for Christmas Day to come? Make the wait easier and fun with New Christmas crafts, recipes and activities every single day. Best of all - It's Completely FREE
Sign
up to be notified the moment the Christmas Fun starts.
With the help of Waiting for Christmas I can make waiting for Christmas with my kids so much more fun! Every day I will receive an email with activities, recipes, crafts etc. to help make waiting for christmas fun.
I signed up immediately and I have already received a ton of great projects, ideas, recipes etc. for us to get started.
I think my daughter and I will have a great time with the daily email ideas to help countdown the days until christmas.
Check it out, I think you would love it too!!!
Waiting For Christmas-Christmas Crafts And Activities For Your Kids
Happy Holidays to you and yours...
Susan
Date: 11/14/2006
Title: Holiday Cards and Christmas Announcements are here!
NEW!!! Christmas Birth Announcements and Holiday Cards are here! Our cards are customized specially for you. Pick your favorite style, then choose your favorite verse and wording. Our cards can be customized for any occasion...holiday birth announcement, holiday greeting cards, Christmas themed baby shower invitations, and even holiday thank you notes! See our full line of Christmas and Holiday Cards, you are sure to find something you will love!
These are just a small sample of the new cards here at Sweet-Pea-Creations. Many more styles are coming soon, so keep checking back!
Susan
Date: 10/23/2006
Title: Boutique Mom Features Our Products!
Sweet-Pea-Creations is featured on Boutique Mom! Click here to see their review:
SPC Review at Boutique Mom
Don't forget to sign up for their newsletter for a chance to WIN a $25 gift certificate to Sweet-Pea-Creations!!!
Visit Boutique Mom today to sign up for their newsletter for a chance to win the $25 gift certificate or any of their other great giveaways!
Susan
Date: 10/19/2006
Title: SPC included in a Baby Swag basket for Britney Spears!
October 19, 2006 - Sweet-Pea-Creations is included in the launch of Baby Swags. The 1st Swag basket is being sent to Britney Spears' newest family member, Sutton Pierce. Baby Swags features Work At Hom Products in their Swag Baskets for Celebrities.
Sweet-Pea-Creations products in the basket were a set of Blue Giraffe Note Cards for baby Sutton, and a set of All Boy Note Cards for Sean Preston.
Check out this beautiful basket sent to Britney and Sutton Pierce!
Visit Baby Swags to read about the other Work At Home Moms products included in this beautiful basket!
And if you are a WAHM with products created and designed by you, visit Baby Swags to find out how your products can be included in upcoming baskets going to celebrities like Jennie Garth, Brooke Burke and many others!
Date: 10/5/2006
Title: NEW--for October Babies! Halloween Birth Announcements!
I have just added the most adorable little halloween birth announcements and matching note cards. These cards feature an orange gingham border with the cutest little baby peeking out of a pumpkin. Personalized and custom printed for your October or Halloween baby. These are so cute, how could you not announce your new October baby with the Little Pumpkin Birth Announcement!
Little Pumpkin Halloween Birth Announcement
Little Pumpkin Note card
Susan
Date: 10/4/2006
Title: Bargain Mommy Features Sweet-Pea-Creations!
October 4, 2006 - Sweet-Pea-Creations has been featured on Bargain Mommy! Phyllis at Bargain Mommy has fallen in love with our cards. Visit Bargain Mommy today to see our review and to check out her Shopping Directory and product reviews. Don't forget to check out her blog too at Bargain Mommy Blog.
Date: 10/2/2006
Title: I'm proud to be featured on What's Hot For Tots!
Sweet-Pea-Creations is a featured product on What's Hot For Tots! AJ at What's Hot For Tots has some wonderful things to say about our products so please visit to see her review and to see all the other great deals they feature.
Susan
Date: 10/1/2006
Title: New Baby Shower Invitations and Note Cards Added!
I have added a sweet new Baby Boy Shower Invitation and matching note - Thank You card!
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Baby Shower Invitation
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Baby Shower Thank You - Note Card
These are absolutely adorable for any baby boy or gender neutral baby shower, and sure to put a smile on the mommy-to-be's face! Be sure to pick up a pack of the Baby Shower Thank You Cards as a gift for the mommy-to-be. One less thing she will have to think about since her mind is on all things baby!
Susan
Date: 9/30/2006
Title: Last Day of our End Of Summer Sale! Everything is 20% off!!!
Just a reminder that today, September 30th is the LAST day for our End of Summer Sale! Last time you will see prices slashed this much! You have until midnight on Saturday night to take advantage of our 20% off ANYTHING in our store. This offer does include pre-orders. Even if your baby isn't due to arrive for a few more weeks, go ahead and place your order now to take advantage of this great deal. Once your baby arrives, you will just email me with all the birth information and I will proceed with your order as normal.
This is an awesome sale and you probably won't find another sale this good on our site for at least another year! :-)
But we have more great things in the works...I am working on some adorable new address labels, envelope seals, Halloween themed baby birth announcements, and Christmas themed baby birth announcements. So keep checking in!
Susan
Date: 9/30/2006
Title: New Baby Shower Invitations and Note Cards Added!
I have added an adorable new Baby Girl Shower Invitation and matching note - Thank You card!
Pink Pacifier with Bow Baby Shower Invitation
Pink Bow Baby Shower Thank You - Note Card
These are absolutely adorable for any baby girl baby shower, and sure to put a smile on the mommie-to-be's face! Be sure to pick up a pack of the Baby Shower Thank You Cards as a gift for the mommie-to-be. One less thing she will have to think about since her mind is on all things baby!
Susan
Date: 9/25/2006
Title: Sweet Pea Lists the Best Boutiques!
Well, we have jumped onto that Top 100 Site list bandwagon! Sweet Pea Lists the Best Boutiques is now officially open and looking for sites to join us. Top sites lists are a GREAT way to get your name out there and the best part is it is free. Basically, you join a top site list, add your banner, your site description and your site URL. Once you have been approved by the site manager, you will log into your account, get your special link code and banner and place it somewhere on your site. You want to put it somewhere where your site visitors will see it, or at least a link to help your visitors find it (Like a link called "Vote for our site"). Every time someone clicks on the top site link/banner, it counts as a vote for your site. The more votes your site receives, the higher in ranking you will be on the top site list! The goal is to be on page 1 and in the top 10 for the best exposure ;-)
Many top site lists also charge for advertising on their sites. A banner ad can run anywhere from $5 to $15 a month. But not us! We are starting out with a BANG! I gave away 10 FREE 125 x 125 banner ads in the top position. I love to help my fellow WAHM's and what a better way to help than to offer free advertising!
Well, I will be busy the next few days promoting my new top site list and trying to recruit new members. The more members I get, the more traffic we will get, resulting in MORE exposure for everyone! It is a win-win situation for everyone.
Hope to see you on Sweet Pea Lists the Best Boutiques!
Susan
Date: 9/23/2006
Title: Help KateyBug and WIN!
Renee Norman from Petite Baubles Boutique is on a mission to help a sweet little girl who has been diagnosed with a rare disorder called costello syndrome. Kaitlyn Hale, aka "KateyBug" is in need of alot of medical attention, procedures, heart surgery etc. and the family is becoming financially drained. So Renee has decided to help by running a raffle on her site with 100% of the proceeds going to KateyBug's family to help cover medical and other related expenses.
Sweet-Pea-Creations has donated a $25 gift certificate to the cause along with many other boutique vendors. So head on over to Petite Baubles Boutique and purchase raffle tickets for a good cause. There are many great prizes and more being added daily (the outpouring of support from fellow boutique owners has been outstanding!).
To read all about KateyBug's story, to find out what costello syndrome is, and to find out more on how to purchase raffle tickets, please visit KateyBug Donation at Petite Babubles Boutique.
Thank you for your support!
Susan
Date: 9/21/2006
Title: Reporting on my Crock Pot Meat Loaf
Well, I made the crock pot meatloaf. It was so quick to fix...about 15 min and it was in the pot and on it's way. The house smelled great all day.
Now, I adjusted the recipe just a tad. I omitted the brown sugar (my family doesn't like the added sweetness to foods) and I was out of worcestershire sauce so I just threw in a dash of A-1 Sauce LOL!
The verdict is....
It was OK. The taste was fine, it just had a weird texture. Just real mushy...nothing like meatloaf baked in the oven. Maybe 8 hours on low was just a tad too long. Not sure. Hubby and I ate it with no complaints. My kids on the other hand...a couple bites and no more for them! No amount of ketchup or ranch dressing (yes, they eat ranch dressing on EVERYTHING) could get them to eat it up. But that is no surprise, they won't eat hardly anything I cook.
So, I might make it again and maybe cook it a little less. I won't give up...I love using my crockpot, I just don't have enough recipes for it. Oh, and clean up was a BREEZE! Because the pot was lined with aluminum foil, just a quick scrub was all it needed! And the other bonus, we had homemade mashed potatoes! My family rarely gets homemade mashed potatoes...just not something I fix alot. Too much work for this busy mom!
Come back next wednesday and try another new recipe with me!
Susan
Date: 9/20/2006
Title: What's for dinner Wednesday - Crock Pot Meat Loaf
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Ok, I have been CRAVING meatloaf. I even have some ground beef sitting in my fridge just waiting to be cooked into something besides spaghetti! So this week I am going to try Crock Pot Meat Loaf. I have never made a meat loaf in the crock pot, but it sounds like a great plan to me. Especially since our temps are still in the 90's here in Las Vegas, too hot to run the oven for an hour. I will report back on what my family thought of my new style of meatloaf!
So, here is the recipe:
Crock Pot Meat Loaf
Ingredients:
2 1/2 pounds ground beef
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 egg
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 small onion (diced)
1/4 cup water
Directions:
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Form into a meatloaf shape that will fit into your crock pot. Cut a strip of foil and place under the meatloaf in crock pot. Cut it long enough to cover the bottom and sides of meatloaf. Place meat loaf in crock pot and top with an additional 2 tablespoons ketchup. Cover and cook on low for approximately 8 hours.
Enjoy!
Susan
Date: 9/20/2006
Title: What's for dinner Wednesday's
I don't know about you, but I am in a dinnertime rut... It seems like we eat the same things week after week. And with 2 VERY picky children, mom and dad are getting tired of the same kid friendly meals. So I am dedicating Wednesday's to "What's for dinner Wednesday's"! Every wednesday I will share a recipe that is quick and easy to make and family friendly. And I will even follow up with how the dinner rated with my family!
Hope you and your family enjoy the recipes!
Susan
What's for dinner wednesday's is sponsored by Dine Without Whine.
Weekly Meal Planning - Free Sample and FREE Trial Offer
Date: 9/19/2006
Title: Halloween Costume Ideas for Toddlers
Dressing up your toddler for Halloween is a lot of fun. Enjoy it while you can. Before you know it your sweet little toddler will be in kindergarten or first grade and will have developed a much stronger opinion on his or her costume choices and you’ll no longer be able to dress him in the costume of your choice. Here are a few ideas for toddler Halloween costumes to get you started. Of course there are plenty of other options out there as well. With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless.
Dwarf
Start with earth tone pants and shirt. Brown and dark greens work well. Put your child in some boots as well. Make a simple hat out of felt, similar to a witch’s hat but with a smaller brim. Finish the outfit with some |
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