Williams-Sonoma

Normally, I post about inexpensive or free things to do with your kids or family, but sometimes Mama needs a break too, right? The Williams-Sonoma store by my house has free cooking classes every Sunday. I just call ahead of time and reserve a spot. It's a great way to have a little free time, try some new recipes, and get a little cooking inspiration. Be warned, they do love to push their fabulous kitchen gadgets and their great sauces, oils & vinegar. I would love to buy everything in the store! Let's just say that my Christmas Wish List gets a little longer every week. 

Here is the link, so you can view upcoming classes and look for a store near you. 

http://www.williams-sonoma.com/customer-service/store-events.html?cm_src=productsearch

Lakeshore Learning Stores

I love Lakeshore Learning Stores. Great toys and teaching supplies. They also have free crafts for kids every Saturday from 11:00 to 3:00. Here is the craft list for July and August. 




http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/general_content/store_locations/storeCrafts.jsp?f=m

Backyard Campout

A few weeks ago, before things really started to heat up around here, we decided to have a weekend backyard campout! We packed everything we needed for survival in the green, freshly mowed, grass. We cooked outdoors, had a fire pit, rode bikes, sang campfire songs and roasted marshmallows. Everyone loved it! Don't get me wrong, I truly enjoy camping, but I loved the fact that I could just walk into the house and use my own, clean, personal bathroom. We had such a great time, that we are planning another weekend under the stars in the very near future.

Happy 4th of July!!!

Our town has a great 4th of July parade. Perfect way to begin the 4th of July celebration. Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!

The Dollar Store

What can you get for 10.00 dollars? Not a whole lot these days. However, it can get you a lot when you go to the dollar store. I never thought I'd say it, especially on a live blog, but the dollar store by my house kinda rocks! We went in search of 4th of July decorations and we ended up with some really cute stuff. Sure, I know many people out there make their own decorations, banners, and other things. Those of you that know me, know I'm not a craft type person. If you do not know me, please refer to the birthday cake entry. If your short on time and do not have time to make anything, or if you're like me, this is the perfect place for you.

I could of bought much more, but I showed some restraint. With the mini flags that we bought last year, and saved, we are ready for our 4th of July celebration.

Summer Movies for Kids

Looking for a fun, inexpensive way to keep the kids happy this Summer? Want to keep cool? Look no further, a list of Summer movies for kids is here. Regal Entertainment Group, Phoenix Big Cinemas and UltraStar Cinemas all have movies for kids during the weekdays. I believe UltraStar charges a one time fee of 5.00, but you can then return and view all 10 movies after paying the one time fee, and Regal's cost is 1.00 per movie. The movies are not new releases, but some of them are new to my family. Besides, who doesn't enjoy watching a family favorite again? I've attached the links below, so you can search for a theatre in your area. Happy viewing!

http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx

http://phoenixtheatres.com/summerkids.html

http://www.ultrastarmovies.com/

The Birthday Cake

Recently, my daughter turned 5. In the past, I would go down to the local bakery and purchase a beautiful cake. This year, I decided to make my daughter's cake. When I first told her, she looked concerned, but then she came up with the idea to put princesses on it. She went to her room and returned with six small princesses from a play set. They were the perfect size. Now, you must know, Duff Goldman from Charm City Cakes or Buddy Valestro from Cake Boss, I am NOT. No one has ever called me crafty or creative. I knew this would not be an easy task for me. The night before my daughter's birthday, after she went to bed, I started baking. The cake, for a novice lacking in the creativity department, turned out okay. I saved a few bucks too. More importantly, she was THRILLED! She came downstairs the next morning and was so surprised. I think the fact that I took the time to make it made her feel special. I think I may have started a new tradition.

Hello World! Welcome!

My name is Erin. I live in Southern California and I'm a wife, mother of two and Realtor.
Recently, the company which employs my husband, was bought. This means nationwide layoffs. Saying we were/are nervous, is an understatement. I started thinking about every penny I spent. Since I'm sure many people are faced with this same, or similar, situation (especially in today's economy) I decided to start this blog. Not only would it be therapeutic, but someone else may actually benefit as well.
Also, if you'd like, drop me a line and let me know YOUR recession tips at erinalicia@hotmail.com. I'd love to hear from you.