Fall is peak time for carrots and I have an amazing (and super simple) recipe that will probably make you want to buy out the entire grocery store. I make these at least once a week and they're my go-to side dish whenever I have company over for dinner. Everyone who eats them always thinks that I spent hours on them! In reality, they only take about 5 minutes of prep and about 40 minutes to cook. I guess my secret is out... For this recipe, you will need bunched baby carrots. By “baby” ... [ Read More ]
Calling all Chicago Entrepreneurs with the Next Big Idea!
Have you ever watched the show, Shark Tank, and thought, "I could've TOTALLY done a better job! or "I have an idea that would totally win!"? Well, now is your chance to prove it. RedEye Chicago and Jack Daniels are presenting the 3rd annual, Big Idea Awards! Once again, they are looking for Chicago-based entrepreneurs between the ages of 21-34 to enter their idea in this one-of-a-kind competition. If you think you have the next big idea, I suggest you submit it ASAP! There are four ... [ Read More ]
Why I Stopped Breastfeeding (and why that’s OK)
Before I begin this post, I want everyone reading this to be aware of 3 things: 1. I am not against breastfeeding. I think it is one of the most beautiful and wonderful things you can do for your child. I also understand it's many benefits. 2. We women need to support each other despite our differences in opinions and lifestyle. This is not a forum for lecturing or judgement. Please do not use the comment section as such. This post is meant to help those struggling to feel empowered to do ... [ Read More ]
Owlet: How a Little Sock can Help out Big Time
Before Elia was born, I had all these big plans to get her started in her crib right away. I never understood why parents would ever want their baby to sleep in the same room as them let alone next to them in a bassinet. Then, I had a baby and everything changed. The night we came home from the hospital I couldn't imagine ever putting Elia in her nursery down the hall. I felt like I needed her right next to me all the time. I kept worrying that if I left her alone she would cry and I ... [ Read More ]
5 Things that got me through my 1st month as a Mom
I can't believe my little Elia is already a month old! It's such a weird feeling because I honestly can't remember my life before her. It's confusing, intense and amazing all at the same time. Navigating this new chapter in my life has been one of the more difficult things I've ever done. Over the past few weeks, I've had some major failures and awesome successes. Some days I feel like super woman and others (when she's having an inconsolable meltdown), I feel like I'm the most horrible ... [ Read More ]
EASY Homemade Pop-Tarts
You guys, these homemade pop-tarts are the perfect morning time treat. They're super sweet, very easy, and absolutely delicious! Lately I've been so busy with the baby, I am constantly trying to create quick but yummy recipes and this one totally fits the bill. If my baby girl Elia could eat, I can bet she would love these (for now she's on a milk diet!) These beauties are also the perfect party snack or a fun way a treat yourself to some nostalgic eats. There are so many different ways you ... [ Read More ]
My Birth Story
I am so excited to welcome my beautiful little girl, Elia Harper (pronounced Uh-LEE-Ah). She was born July 23rd at 9:30 pm. Elia was 7lbs 11ounces and was 21 inches long! I wanted to share my birth story with you because I know many of you are currently pregnant or plan to be at some point and had lots of questions. I'm giving you a heads up now, I don't hold back on the details! :) Here we go... It was July 22nd and I had just come home from the Taste of River North. My due date was the ... [ Read More ]
Easy Asian Chicken Wontons
Every once in a while, I just want to eat appetizers for dinner. Well, these Asian chicken wontons are perfect for that occasion (and perfect for you next party.) Plus, they’re fun to make. Not only are they super light and fresh, they are satisfying enough to help you forget they are actually pretty healthy. So, let the wonton making, begin! This recipe makes 50 wontons + extra filling for next time! </br> Place one wonton wrapper in the palm of your hand. Scoop about a ... [ Read More ]
Avocado Berry Smoothie Bowl
With Chicago summer in full swing, we all need something to cool down with. This smoothie bowl is the perfect (and easiest) way to help you wake up on the right side of the bed! If you haven't tried avocado in a smoothie before, you're missing out (even if you think you don't like them!) It adds a beautiful creaminess to the smoothie bowl that makes it even more delectable. Obviously, this recipe is very flexible. You can use whatever berries you like and you can arrange your toppings to your ... [ Read More ]
Wholly Guacamole Tour & Festival Recap!
Last night, I rocked out at the Live Wholly Tour and Festival event hosted by Wholly Guacamole at the Elbo Room in Chicago. The concept is just too cool! Basically, Wholly Guacamole is traveling across the country to Nashville, Chicago, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis in search of the best musicians. In each city, a line up of contestant compete in an open mic competition to win $500 and the chance to go on to the final round to win $10,000 and open up for a big music act at the ... [ Read More ]
