mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

Best Planners for Moms

By 293 Comments

Getting organized for the New Year or Back to School? Get it Together with these Best Planners for Moms.

Affiliate links may be included.

The beginning of the year is our mental reset button to get it together. Get a wrangle on things for you, your family, your meal planning and whatever else with an organizer/planner/agenda.  Then carpool, after school activities, athletic practices and science projects that are suddenly due the next day can stay in stay in check (at least as much as possible!) 

Best Planners


Before you click out of this browser because you’re running from reality, slow down, take a deep breath and take these next few weeks to get prepared and most importantly organized.

Maybe you’re a digital woman who swears by the Google or their Outlook calendar. Click away, my friends. But for the more lady who literally needs to “pencil something in,” here the best mom planners and agendas that will make this year a piece of cake.  

Best Planner: CARRIE ELLE // Website

What started as a blog and meal planner, has turned into a brand and a storefront dedicated to making life a little more beautiful and organized. From your 21-Day Fix, family meal planning, budgeting, a full 12-month agenda, digital downloads and now even journals for bullet journaling, Carrie Elle is a mom that has taken her best practices and made them easier for the rest of us with her favorite prints, inspirational quotes and more. that And because your job often includes meal planning, groceries and how to get it all done, make sure to check out the Meal Planner from Carrie Elle for her specially formatted book to help you look at meal planning and grocery shopping in a whole new way with perforated lists, calendars and ideas. 

DSC_0769_large

Best Planner: INKWELL PRESS // Website

From the moment you open the box your inkWELL liveWELL planner, you know you’re not just getting a planner, but a new lifestyle. Designed with the goal of educating women to empower themselves through organization, these planners aren’t just a cute worksheets and tabs, but actually supplied educational resources to help you customize your inkWELL Press products (meal planning, exercise, etc.) to suit the specifics of your lifestyle. From videos, free downloads and weekly emails, you are armed and ready to create a better life with this planner. (Plus the couple behind the brand are SMU alums, so I’m biased for a little local.) 

[See this special look at the Inkwell Press liveWELL planner.]

BestMomAgendaInkwelll

Best Planner: ERIN CONDREN // Website

These planners are relatively new, but have quickly become a favorite amongst women in all walks of life. Whether you’re a freshman starting out in college or the mom of a cute kindergartner or the kindergarten teacher, these life planners are the perfect way to stay organized in style. Erin Condren planners can be purchased in either read to ship options or you can customize it to your specific needs. Start the creative process by choosing from dozens of covers, from metallic golds to classic prints, or upload your own design. Agendas are available in 12 month, 17 month, and basically however you need it. Weekly layouts can be made vertical or horizontal and includes a section for notes, to-dos or weekly goals. Planner accessories from sticker books to pop up markers, elastic bands and more can be purchase to add personality to your daily organizer. 

Erin Condren 1

Best Planner: GIGI NEW YORK // Website

For the ladies who are searching for a little of sophistication in their planner, look no further than the  Gigi New York Notebook. The ultimate in style and fashion with embossed python leather notebook planners are handmade in a factory in Long Island and feature month and week-at-a-view appointment pages. The covers come in several classic and jewel tone colors and be personalized with your initials if available. The premier brand for datebooks, Gigi New York makes notebooks for major retailers including Barney’s, Neiman Marcus and Henri Bendel. 

 

Best Planner: TOOLS 4 WISDOM // Website

A Tools4Wisdom 2017 Planner has been crafted for this purpose through question-driven planning and daily schedules that emphasize on the essential. Each planning page serves as a compass to plan on doing more of what we love – and less of the opposite.  These calendars give you at-a -glance insight about your daily schedule, next appointments, and events. A desktop organizer is a fast and simple tool to keep your office schedule organized, all year round. Not only will you have a 2017 planner handy at all times, you’ll also have an ample and comfortable journal for writing.

Best-Planner-Tools-4-Widsdom

Best Planner: OLIVIA SOPHIA // Website

Named after her daughter, Olivia Sophia is a line centered on sharing faith, world empowerment and love through paper. With several products from wedding planning to gift bags, each is an expression of beauty. One of its biggest products is the Marriage & Grace planner. “PERFECT for the wife that loves to include date nights, meal planning and weekly prayer request into your schedule. It include budget sheets and family meeting pages. It’s the planner that leaves no one out and helps to keep you on track while staying focused on God first, marriage and family second and grace as the standard.”

MomPlanner1_1024x1024

Best Planner: MOM AGENDA // Website

This agenda is sleek, stylish, and functional day planner and organizer for moms, and all women in general, to help you feel relaxed, at peace and in control of your whole life. momAgenda is on a mission to help organize busy moms everywhere with unique day planners and other organizational products. momAgenda has been featured in Real Simple and The New York Times and has even been featured on The Today Show. Celebrity moms like Felicity Huffman, Cindy Crawford, and Reese Witherspoon rave about momAgenda! The unique layout helps moms manage multiple schedules and features space for mom and up to four kids (or one for your spouse.) This planner features two ribbons to mark important places, monthly and weekly views and writing space for to—do list and notes like meal planning, movie night, party planning and more. 

Mom Agenda

These are just a few agendas available to help you get started with your planning. Most of these are in high demand, so make sure you order one before they sell out!

 

Slow-Cooker

 

Go: Peppermint Park at the Christmas at the Anatole

By Leave a Comment

Christmas at the Anatole is a sweet Dallas tradition for your holiday bucket list. Get whisked away to Peppermint Park for memories that will last them (and you) a lifetime. 

Thank you to the Hilton Anatole for allowing us to experience the Christmas at the Anatole and this sponsored post.

The Hilton Anatole has long been a place for our family to create memories. 

Taylor’s Birthday at Jade Waters, our first family “fancy” dinner at SER, and many Christmases with Santa and Mrs. Claus. So rolling in through with revolving doors this year, with an 11-year-old and an 8-year-old, I thought this year, might be our last. 


Christmas at the Anatole

Had the magic of waking up for breakfast with Santa or the sparkle of sipping hot chocolate outside as we strolled around a few holiday-themed booths? 

However, as we walked through the entryway of Peppermint Park, I could see the sparkle in both of their eyes. And by the end of the trip of our quick escape to the Hilton Anatole they both had already begun making plans for next year when we come. 

That’s why this sweet Dallas tradition is a must for your holiday bucket list.

What to Expect at Peppermint Park 

Upon check-in we begun our stay with a special cookies and cocoa reception including meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Then we headed outside directly to Peppermint Park to check out the activities. Immediately as we were greeted by the crackling fire and carolers, I could see and feel all the warm and fuzzies, especially as walked into this precious, pint-sized “Christkindl” holiday market under the stars. Next we spent more than three hours outside having a ball as we sang, played games, made crafts, took TONS of photos, and laughed a lot.  And we didn’t even do everything there… the night we went, there were no lines and we just went from one activity to another enjoying ourselves all night.  

Christmas at the Anatole

Christmas at the Anatole

Peppermint Park Activities 

  • Christmas Tree Lighting
  • Sweet Treats – Funnel Cake, Cookies, S’mores, and much more
  • Selfie Station
  • North Pole Miniature Golf
  • Holiday Train Ride – Roll around the Park in this miniature train  
  • Cookie Decorating
  • Teddy Bear Factory
  • Santa Letter Writing at the Elf Post Office 
  • Face Painting
  • Snow Globe Photo 
  • S’mores around the fire with caroling 
  • Holiday Marionette Show
  • Mini Escape Room – 12 minutes of perfect-timed fun 
  • Multiple Singing and dancing stations 
  • and more. 

For dinner we voted for room service was the best option for us so we could eat in the bed (not to mention who doesn’t love good room service like they have here (the food is rather extraordinary!) However, while we waited, my son and I spent some time together walking around, taking a selfie next to one the many photo experiences and headed to the CounterOffer, the 24-hour grab and go. With coffee, wine, salads, soups, pizza, sushi and some of the best sweet confections, we loaded up on a carefully created Yuletide Log and a gigantic Christmas tree cupcake and headed back to the room to eat. Later once we had full bellies, we put on our jammies  to enjoy the Christmas movie theatre for holiday shows, popcorn and concessions made just for families and quickly afterwards to our room to get some shut eye before breakfast with the big guy.

Christmas at the Anatole

The next morning we woke up, donning our holiday pjs (attire is up to you) for breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. I’m glad we had elastic pants because the buffet was spectacular. There was a pancake station, made-to-order Chilaquiles, egg casserole, oatmeal station, cinnamon rolls and a hot chocolate, coffee and juice bar…it was so good. But honestly still the best part was Santa and Mrs. Claus came to the table to say hello and snap that holiday shot! As we stuffed ourselves, Santa took his chair and began to read a story to all the kids (little and big.) 

Christmas at the Anatole

Christmas at the Anatole

But as we started to get our belongings together, including our new holiday bears we built at Peppermint Park and the loads of goodies we made that night so we could head back home the kids asked if they could please, please, please come back next year. 

Holiday bucket list moment achieved. 

If you’re heading to the Hilton Anatole for Christmas at the Anatole, here are a few tips to make it the best moments.

Best Tips for Christmas at the Anatole 

Go with the VIP Package – it makes it easy to enjoy everything! 

VIP Holiday Package Include:

  • One Standard Guest Room, late check-out 3 pm
  • Valet parking for one vehicle
  • Meet & Greet Reception with Santa and Mrs. Claus on day of arrival with one complimentary 5×7 photo with Santa and Cookies and Refreshments
  • Complimentary Entrance into Peppermint Park (December 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22)
    • Christmas Tree Lighting
    • Holiday Marionette Show, Penguin Show, Tinsel the Talking Christmas Tree Show, Jack Frost’s North Pole Weather Station Show, Be a WRAP Star Competition, Name that Holiday Tune & Trivia, North Pole Adventure, Giant Snow Globe Photo Op, Holiday Movie Night and more!
    • Guests receive $20 off Peppermint Park Activity Passes!
    • Breakfast with Santa for up to 2 adults and 2 kids on day of departure

Christmas at the Anatole

Be Wardrobe Ready 

Between meeting Santa, going outdoors for Peppermint Park, holiday movies, and breakfast with Santa, there were several things to be prepared for (especially if you’re planning to take photos of it.) Make sure to pack what you need for those moments, both indoors and out. However, Peppermint Park does have jackets, sweaters, hats, and other great gifts if you happen to forget! 

Christmas at the Anatole

Don’t Just Watch, Do

This is where I think we all need a reminder as parents. We’re so used to taking our kids to events and being spectators. However, at Peppermint Park you can have fun with them! Play the golf, peek in the Escape Room scuttle hole, sing the carols – it’s all about making memories with your children. 

Christmas at the Anatole

Know How to Dine 

There are multiple options for dining at the Hilton Anatole, so there are several options that can work for whatever experience you’re looking for with your family. 

  • SĒR Steak + Spirits 

Don’t Forget the Unschedule Activities 

There are plenty of opportunities to make your own holiday memories that aren’t on the schedule at Christmas at the Anatole. Walk around and take photos throughout the hotel, take time to talk at dinner, wear the PJs, and sing the songs!

Christmas at the Anatole

Visit the official Hilton Anatole website for more information about Christmas at the Anatole. 

 

 

 

 

Three Tips to Choosing the Right Urgent Care for Kids

By 1 Comment

Are the kids catching more than the holiday spirit…From flu to falls, here are Three Tips to Choosing the Right Urgent Care for Kids and why we love Children’s Health PM Pediatrics!

 This post is sponsored by our partners at Children’s Health PM Urgent Care.
 
Nothing is worse than watching your kid in pain.

From having a cold, breaking a bone or for the times you don’t know exactly what’s happening to your little one, you want nothing more than to get your kids healthy and quick.

Unfortunately, it’s never convenient – it’s late at night, halfway through that LONG meeting or when you can’t even think about getting into your pediatrician’s office.

Childrens Health


So in an act of desperation – you end up thinking up all the ways you can make it better – from calling friends, googling ideas or even thinking of how you might “bump” into the doctor at the supermarket in hopes they just have their doctor’s bag in hand.

Don’t worry – we’ve all been there and have all done it.

But when looking for Urgent Care for kids you really need to be considering:

  • Where will my kid be treated with the best care possible?
  • How quick can I get my kid in?
  • Where will my kid feel comfortable so we can make this bad day a little bit better?

Where will my kid be treated with the best care possible?
While there are plenty of Urgent Care options in DFW, when it comes to kids, you really should only consider an Urgent Care that is designed just for kids. They are specially trained to provide care for kids – and there is always a pediatrician on site.

Childrens Urgent Care

Dr. Harita Katragadda, Stefany Alvarado-Paramedic, Rachelle Smouse-RN(Office Manager), Jessica Porter-receptionist at Children’s Health Urgent Care (left to right).

From sports injuries, infections, fractures, flu and all the other stuff in between, with a staff of board-certified pediatricians and pediatric emergency physicians, Children’s Health PM Urgent Care is ready to serve your family. Plus with onsite digital x-ray, EKG and labs, there’s a lot that can happen here. And in the case that it can’t, this team can get your child where they need to be – and quickly.

Childrens-Health

(Photo credit: Children’s Health Urgent Care Flower Mound)

How quick can I get my kid in?
It’s never planned to be sick or hurt, so it’s going to be inconvenient. It’s about providing a service when your pediatrician isn’t available but your kid needs medical attention. Children’s Health PM Urgent Care is open 365 days a year AND from noon – midnight (so the times that really do count!) And since families are always busy, you don’t want to just sit there for hours in a lobby, hoping to get in sometime. With both an online reservation system, guests can check in to hold a spot in line and avoid as much wait time as possible.

Childrens Health

Where will my kid feel comfortable to make this bad day the best it can be?
So it’s never a great day when a child is sick or hurt…but when there are pediatric experts who make it a better day with experience working with kids, you know you’re in the right spot. Especially when that right spot goes even further to make it a better day – like familiar faces on the TV screen, happy murals on the wall, and quite possibly a popsicle in the fridge – you know you’ve found the right urgent care that really does care for your kid (and you).

Childrens Health

Now that Children’s Health and PM Pediatrics, the nation’s largest provider of specialized pediatric urgent care, have joined forces to open Children’s Health PM Urgent Care – they’re making it even easier to get the care you need, when you need it, where you need it and how you need it. They now have locations in McKinney, The Colony and Flower Mound.

While I would never wish anything bad upon your kiddos to get to experience Children’s Health PM Urgent Care, I know that when something happens – and with kids it often does – Children’s Health PM Urgent Care is there to help make it better.

Childrens Health

My first experience with Children’s
My first real experience with the Children’s Health commitment to care was actually before I had a kid at all.

For most first-time mamas, the delivery experience at the hospital includes an OB, a few nurses, a few family / friends with a lot of anxiety followed by pain followed by happiness and then 2-3 days later you go home with your bundle of joy…

For me, that wasn’t the case at all.

After an 18 hour delivery, my tired state (I wasn’t human at this point) looked at a 15+ person team of doctors that once my OB delivered my son, immediately rushed my brand new bundle of joy through the doors of my hospital to the adjoining hospital at Children’s Medical Center (now Children’s Health.)

There, for the next almost month, my husband and I lived at the hospital waiting, hoping and praying our son with a Congenital Heart Defect would finally get to go home with us. During this time, we grew close to the Children’s staff throughout the round-the-clock care. Needless to say, when we finally were released from Children’s on that hot summer day in July, I cried. Hard. Not just because I was finally getting to bring my baby home…but because I was leaving my Children’s family.

11 years later, I realized I never left my Children’s family. They’re always there. For us, we still visit the hospital once a year for my son’s annual heart check-up, and now I know that through Children’s Health PM Urgent Care locations they’ll be there when we need them to help with unexpected illness or injury.

That’s the way it is at Children’s and that’s why Children’s is our trusted health care provider – planned and not so planned.

Childrens Health

McDonalds Gives Back #McGiveBack {Giveaway}

By 3 Comments

McDonalds gets into the spirit with its #McGiveBack campaign this holiday benefiting the community with Pennies for Pounds, RMHC’s Scholars Scholarship, and throughout the year.

Thank you to McDonalds of North Texas for giving to the community and this sponsored post.

‘Tis the season for giving and the Golden Arches is giving out more than Happy Meals and Big Macs this holiday.

McGive


December 3 may be Giving Day, but McDonald’s works to give more throughout the holidays and the rest of the year. 

Pennies for Pounds and Pennies Per Happy Meal

Those legendary french fries always bring a smile to your face, this November you have reason to smile even more with Pennies for Pounds. For every pound of french fries sold, McDonald’s in North Texas will donate two cents to the Ronald McDonald’s House Charities. And new this year, with every Happy Meal sold, one cent will be donated to RMHC. 

McDonalds Education

While many families thankfully don’t have to be impacted directly by the RMHC, you never know when you will. For instance, when Jackson was born with a CHD, as new parents we spent months at Children’s Medical Center (now Children Health.) While we were just a few miles from the hospital, there were parents just like us in the Heart Center, going through the same as us, that were too far from home and would sleep on recliners and bathe in a hospital bathroom.

One family we met from South America did this for months just hoping to get the best care for their children. However, this happens way more than you think it does, picking up their lives to care for their kids. Many times parents would leave their job to be with their child at the hospital or even worst, families were split, with one parent at the hospital, and another parent at home to take care of the other kids or keep at least one job. Already serving 38,000 families since its opening, the RMHC helps families like these to stay together during times like these by offering a housing for families with 52 private bedrooms and six transplant apartments. Additionally, the House contains everything to make life possible when families are going through so much at a hospital including:

  • multiple playrooms for kids of all ages and interests
  • a library
  • media room
  • craft room
  • Chapel
  • meditation garden
  • outdoor play areas
  • Additionally two large communal kitchens and dining room provide opportunities for the families to share the evening meal, which is provided 3 times a day by community volunteers, or to prepare their own food if they choose.

While the RMH is a wonderful place it takes much more to operate an offering of this size, it’s the hundreds of volunteers that support the RMHD’s annual operations and fundraising activities to serving families at the House, preparing meals, and hosting organized activities that keep life going when some much of your world can seem to be falling apart. While families are asked to give just $15 per night to stay, no one is ever turned away.

Amazon Smile

During the holidays, when you’re clicking on buy on Amazon, start purchase at smile.amazon.com to generate AmazonSmile donations for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater North Texas Inc. (Doesn’t cost you a thing!) 

This month when you roll in the drive thru window or come in to grab a quick bite, you can feel a little extra that McDonald’s is giving more to the community. Because of your generosity, since 2016, McDonald’s of North Texas has given more than $1.2M to local RMHC efforts – providing families with the support and resources they need while their children are receiving treatment in local hospitals or health facilities. 

Here’s how we’re saying thank you for your giving: a McDonald’s Gift Card!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Merry Christmas with Robert Earl Keen

By 1 Comment

For more there’s nothing more classic Christmas than Robert Earl Keen. Celebrate Christmas his way with this mamachallenge.com exclusive and get your tickets to a “Countdown to Christmas” in Fort Worth, Dec. 30 at Bass Performance Hall. 

“Carve the turkey turn the ballgame on

Make margaritas when the eggnog’s gone

Send somebody to the Quik Pak Store…


We need some icing and extension cords…” 

Growing up this song describes my family Christmas to a tee I heard it the first time, but more so it would be the first of many R.E.K. lyrics that would become our anthems growing up in small town Texas. As I look back at those big memorable moments in my life, Robert Earl Keen is often the soundtrack. 

So when asked if I would like to talk with the Texas singer/songwriter to chat about his upcoming show at Bass Performance Hall featuring my favorite Christmas song, “I kinda fanned out. A LOT. You have no idea how big of a dork I acted. 

But after I gained my composure and a few minutes into chatting with Robert Earl Keen (always by his full name because it never sounds right saying it any other way), like his songs, I’m calmed and collected, and brought to my happy place. 

REK yellow jacket close up 2

(PC: Robert Earl Keen)

That and that just listening to hi say anything reminded me of all the stories he shares before he belts into one of his own songs…The same stories that have connected him to audiences for decades. Except this time, was my own moment…

And like you’d hope and expect, everything about him is just what I thought: a good ole boy that’s thankful each time he heads to the stage to do what he loves, his way. A man, I would find out, spends his life pretty normal in Kerrville, Texas where he describes it as a lot like “Leave it to Beaver.”  Except quite possibly the way he actually spends his Christmas. 

REK

“I’m known for my making homemade personalized pizzas on Christmas Eve,” he shared when asked how close his Christmas is to the song that was released in 1994. “Everyone comes over and I spend hours making 20 or so pizzas for all my friends and family,” he continued. “Then on Christmas Day we eat Lasagne.”

While I didn’t expect the Italian twist, REKs own personal Christmas tradition encapsulates his own way of authentic, “real way” of sharing much like the recent $55M fundraiser he played in this September “Hand in Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Harvey Relief” with George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, Lyle Lovett and tons of celebrities taking donations over the phone or as the headliner on October 21 for Deep From The Heart Concert at Texas A&M University hosted by former living U.S. Presidents performing alongside Alabama, Cassadee Pope, Lady Gaga and more.

Yes, it was as perfect as it gets,” he shared. “The music was just stellar.” 

But as star-studded as that evening was, it’s the less than red-carpeted evenings I had to know more about. 

“So Robert Earl Keen, is “Merry Christmas from the Family” real or is it just a fun song that all the words came together to make it a hit?” I bravely asked finally. 

He took a deep breath and began his story in only the way REK could, began to share how the “Christmas song,” a song that would become the impetus for the Christmas production many years later, came to be. 

“Right before Christmas, to amuse myself, I just wrote about Christmas just off hand, with these words of my experiences in Houston growing up that I had in the back of my head,” he began. And in 20 minutes, it was done, so I just put it in my back pocket. Then one day I was sharing some music to production guy and it wasn’t going great. Then the guy asked ‘Well, is that all you got?’ I was pretty frustrated so I just started to play it…and he said ‘That’s the best song you have here.’ And that was  the tipping point.”

REK yellow jacket band 2017Final 1

(PC: Robert Earl Keen)

While “Merry Christmas from the Family” is one of REKs most popular songs so much so that he actually had to put a “Linen Rule” on when he plays it, “Coming Home” stands as his own possible favorite (as well as mine.) But when it comes to Christmas tunes, he shared “O Holy Night” is one of his all time favorites as well as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” 

And the Town this Santa is coming to is what Keen calls ‘his favorite city in Texas’ – Fort Worth.”

And the Town this Santa is coming to is what Keen calls “his favorite city in Texas,” Fort Worth, for his one-night performance of the “Fam-O-Lee Back to the Country Jamboree.” The show is described as it “brings visions of sugar plums, elves and maybe a cow or two while families bond with those closest to them at what is sure to become a favorite, non-stop laughing, holiday tradition!”

But honestly, Robert Earl Keen has long been a holiday tradition for many of us for a long-time now. 

See the show: 

Robert Earl Keen’s Countdown to Christmas

Dec. 30 at 7:30 pm

Bass Performance Hall

Fort Worth, Texas

Buy Tickets

 

 

 

It’s a German Christmas at the Texas Christkindl Market

By 14 Comments

There’s tons to do in Dallas and Fort Worth during the holidays. One of our favorites is outdoor fun, culture, and history all in one at the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington, plus there’s gluhwein. (’nuff said.)

I’m a gal that loves to travel. But with kids in tow and Christmas craziness happening, it’s hard to think there’s time for that. But I found the way to Germany and all you need to do is head to the ballpark (Globe Life Park that is.) 

All of these fun events and activities are in my backyard, but if you don’t live in Texas, then you probably only associate Arlington with America’s Team the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. Did you know it’s home to some of the most magical holiday experiences, too?

Texas Chriskindl Market


You can ooh and ahh at all the floats in the Arlington Holiday Lights Parade and the historical Interlochen Lights or you can enjoy the thrills of Six Flags Over Texas – Holiday in the Park. One of my favorites has to be strolling through Texas Christkindl Market – reminiscent of a German holiday experience. 

Texas Christkindl Market, the largest open-air market in the Southwest, is not your typical holiday fair. It’s inspired by German tradition and features holiday gifts, decorations, and of course, German food.  More than 25 vendors are found up and down the market with great giftables like jewelry, ornaments and little German trinkets like cuckoo clocks. Plus, it is the only place in the Southwest where you can find handcrafted gifts and collectibles straight from exclusive Käthe Wohlfahrt merchandise and designs from the iconic Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village.

GE3_9519

This is heaven for shoppers or just people who like to collect festive holiday items, but if shopping isn’t your cup of tea, there’s much more: 

SPECIAL EVENTS NOT TO MISS AT THE TEXAS CHRISTKINDL MARKET

Tree Lighting and Opening Ceremonies -­ Nov. 29 at 7 pm

Kicking off the 2019 Market, the community is invited to welcome the beautiful Christkindl Angel at the Opening Ceremonies on Nov. 29. The angelic namesake of the event, the Christkind opens the market, sharing German holiday traditions and stories. Special guests are invited to join the Angel as she lights up the live 30-ft. Concolor Fir Christkindl Tree, presented by Viridian DFW by Johnson Development, opening the Market for a successful 24 days.  

Ice Skating in the North Plaza 

Take to the ice with 5,000 sq. ft. of frozen fun produced by Ice Rink Rinks! Take a spin on our outdoor ice skating rink, which will be open through Jan. 12, 2020, and create magical memories with family and friends. 

Hours: Open Nov. 29, 2019  – Jan. 12, 2020. After-school hours on weekdays:  4 pm-9 pm; Saturdays and School Holidays: 11 am-10 pm, Sundays: noon- 7 pm.

Tickets: Individual admission for all ages: $16 (includes skate rental). For tickets and information, please visit txchristkindlmarket.com.  For questions regarding group discounts or private skate requests, email [email protected].

Warming Haus 

Enjoy the comforts of warm, covered seating in the Warming Haus as a cozy place to enjoy eating your gingerbread or catching up with an old friend. The Warming Haus is an ideal destination to warm up by enjoying seasonal beverages including beer, Kinderpunsch and Glühwein in custom-collectible mugs (while supplies last.) After the refreshments, head back to the ice rink for a classic holiday experience with friends and family. For information on hosting private events and meetings, please email [email protected].  

Kinder Club

Before heading to see St. Nikolaus, children are invited to write a letter (or download a special template) at the Kinder Club online at: https://www.txchristkindlmarket.com/kinder-club/kids-downloads/. Letters should be dropped at the Warming Haus at the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington, Texas and put it in the specially marked mailbox to receive a personal response from St. Nikolaus himself (with a little help from the Texas Rangers Women’s Club.) 

St. Nikolaus 

There’s nothing more legendary than a visit with St. Nikolaus at the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington! Every child is invited to meet St. Nikolaus to share their special requests and  photography packages may be purchased starting at $19.95.  

GE3_2477

After all of the carousel rides and snow fights, you’ll probably work up quite an appetite for some authentic German cuisine – roasting nuts, brats, potato pancakes, funnel cakes and gluhwein / spiced wine (my personal favorite.) And you can enjoy all of this yummy food in the comfort of the Warming Hut or while listening to one of the acts musical acts that are scheduled throughout the market. Just be careful – we don’t need anyone roasting in a warming hut.

Arlington 2011 Christkindl Market Day Two photographed Saturday, December 2, 2011. Photography by Bruce E. Maxwell.

Arlington 2011 Christkindl Market Day Two photographed Saturday, December 2, 2011. Photography by Bruce E. Maxwell.

The best part about all of this – admission and parking are FREE! Located near Globe Life Field and Texas Live! in the North Plaza, The Texas Christkindl Market is open daily, Nov. 29 until December 22. For more information on vendors, activities and a full schedule of entertainment, click here.

EVENT DETAILS

Texas Christkindl Market, presented by Comerica Bank

Nov. 29 – Dec. 22, 2019

North Plaza at Globe Life Field (next to Texas Live!) 

1650 E. Randol Mill Rd., Arlington, TX 76011

Free market admission, Ice rink admission: $16 

For Info: For information, visit www.TXChristkindlMarket.com, www.facebook.com/TXChristkindl, www.twitter.com/TXChristkindl, www.instagram.com/TXChristkindl #TXChristkindl

christkindl market

 

Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW

By 2 Comments

Looking to celebrate the holidays? In the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex we’re lucky to have so many to experience but here’s our shortlist of Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW!

Check back often: This list will update throughout the season. 

Ready for the holidays? Don’t worry, they’re already here, so get ready.

And in the DFW metroplex, from Fort Worth to Dallas, Arlington to Plano, Grand Prairie to Grapevine (and of course everything in between), there are plenty of great ones to choose from every day of the week. However, there are a few events that you need to have on your must-do, must-go, must-see list for the holidays in 2019! (And make sure to look as some of these have giveaways too!) 


1. The Trains at Northpark

Northpark Center / Nov. 16- Jan. 5, 2020

Prices: Tickets for The Trains at NorthPark are $4 for children ages 2-12 and seniors over 65. Adults are $7, while children under 2 are admitted for free. The exhibit closes for Christmas and Thanksgiving, also closing early for both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Celebrating its 20th year, The Trains at NorthPark have been a holiday tradition for many families (you can spot them through the mall sporting their PJs as they head to the exhibit!) Benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Dallas (RMHD) , and presented by Bank of Texas, The Trains at NorthPark features 750 railcars on a 1,600-foot elaborate configuration of tracks and scenes. The largest miniature train track in Texas, the Trains at NorthPark features cityscapes like Dallas, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and Fair Park; New York with Times Square and Grand Central Terminal; Washington, D.C. with The White House; and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Other highlights include New England’s fall foliage, the Grand Canyon, Garden of the Gods, Mount Rushmore and Route 66. The charming exhibit has been seen by around two million since its original run over 30 years ago.  (As you can see here from 2013, we’re big fans!)  Get the details.

2. Texas Christkindl Market

Arlington / Nov. 29 – Dec. 22 

Prices: Free to visit 

It’s a German Christmas at the Texas Christkindl Market and this year it is bigger and better than ever! This delightful, FREE, family-friendly market, inspired by the cherished German tradition, features holiday gifts, decorations, entertainment, food and this year ICE SKATING. Holiday shoppers will enjoy exclusive Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas decorations and designs from the renowned Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village in Germany, as well as more than 25 holiday vendors including authentic German foods and even gluhwein or kinderpunch for the littles. Get the details.

Texas Christkindl Market

3. SnowDay Dallas

The Plaza at Preston Center / Nov. 22 – Jan. 4 (see site for specific dates and times)

Tickets range $30 for adults, children under 3 are admitted free. $1 of every ticket benefit Children’s Medical Center.  

Self-described as a “holiday dipped and peppermint flipped immersive experience,” SnowDay is new to 2019 and new to Big D.  Guests will navigate their way through an imaginative wonderland of festive photo ops, enchanted rooms, interactive spaces, and nostalgic moments with photo booths integrated throughout the exhibit. Release says you may even meet up with Santa or his elves. Get the details.

Snowday Dallas Holiday 

4. Christmas at the Anatole

Hilton Anatole / Begins Nov. 29 

Rates and prices range based on activities.

When it comes to having some real face-time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas at the Anatole is the perfect place. The legendary hotel transforms into a winter wonderland complete with festive décor, Santa fun, Elf School and Peppermint Park with all kinds of kids activities like a train ride, cocoa, tree lighting and more. But waking up with Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus might be the icing on the Christmas cookies! Make a weekend of it with a stay at the hotel which includes a holiday movie night or try to snag one of the select opportunities for Breakfast with Santa only. Either way, you’ll make some great memories! Get the details.

Hilton-Anatole-Christmas

5. Prairie Lights 

Joe Pool Lake / Thanksgiving – New Year’s Eve (hours vary) 

Prices start at $45 per car. (Splurge on the other activities for a full night of fun with the fam.)

Long one of my favorite of displays in DFW, Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie is well worth the time and money! There is such much even beyond two miles of lit paths and four million lights, it’s a whole night of fun for the kid in all of us. The experience includes not only the drive-through display, but a Holiday Village with free rides, delicious holiday fare, a marketplace and of course, Santa. There’s even a special Holiday Magic theatrical show and a Walk-Through Forest (for an added cost), so you can keep the spirit of Christmas going all night long! Get the details.


 

6. Holiday at the Arboretum

Dallas Arboretum / Nov. 9 – Dec. 31, 2019

Prices range with activities (some activities included with admission.)

Holiday at the Arboretum features the return of the magnificent The 12 Days of Christmas outdoor exhibit, as well as almost 1 million lights throughout the garden at night, trimming the architecture of the historic homes and lighting the canopies overhead—including a 30-foot-tall tree. But that’s just the beginning! You can snag a kiss under the mistletoe, get a glimpse of Santa and a real reindeer, have tea, and much more. There are activities available both morning and nights, throughout the week and the weekends so make sure to check the schedule to get your favorites. Get the details.

7. ICE! at the Gaylord Texan 

Gaylord Texan Hotel and Convention Center / Nov. 9 – Jan. 1, 2019

Rates and prices range based on activities. 

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, you won’t find more ice and snow than at the Gaylord Texan for their annual Lonestar Christmas! From its ICE! at the Gaylord Texan exhibit with 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice inside the 9 degree, 14,000 sq.-feet exhibit, outdoor ice skating, Snow Tubing, you’ll get your fix. Looking for something a little warmer? Decorate your own gingerbread house or breakfast at Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Christmas, you can Christmas to your heart’s content. Once your all Christmased out, stay the night for a full holiday hotel experience. Get the details.

Gaylord Texan Discount - MamaChallenge

8. Robert Earl Keen’s Countdown to Christmas

Bass Performance Hall / Dec. 30

Tickets starting at $55.

Oh, if there’s a Christmas song to sum up our Christmas, I’ll admit it’s Robert Earl Keen’s “Merry Christmas from the Family.” One of my all-time favorite Texas legends (he was one of my first concerts and many more have followed), REK and his band kick up Christmas favorites with his own sound of storytelling, bluegrass and always lots of fun. And where else would you want to enjoy him than in Cowtown for a little Christmas fun. Get the details.

REK

9. Holiday and Tree Lighting at Galleria Dallas 

Galleria Dallas / Nov. 23 – Dec. 23 (dates and times of events vary)

Free

Galleria Dallas celebrates the holiday season with tree lightings, ice skating performances, kids events (like Slappy’s Holiday Circus), Chanukah Menorah Lighting and of course, SHOPPING. But it’s the tree lighting (referred to as the Illumination Celebration featuring world-class ice skaters and Missile Toes, the ice-skating, back-flipping, pyrotechnic Santa, along with local children performing, a countdown to a fireworks finale and the lighting of the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree that make the magic of Christmas come alive.(Believe me, I’ve spent many years doing this and you won’t be disappointed, but come early to get a good spot on one of the the levels.) AND new this year, Santa has made it even easier to be able to see him without all the lines with a new reservation system. When guests arrive, they are met with their own elf to take them through Santa’s Village before they meet up with Santa for the big picture moment! Get the details.

10. Vitruvian Lights 

Vitruvian Park in Addison / Nov. 23 – Jan. 1, 2020

Free / Parking $10 

The most dazzling and spectacular time of the year is here!  Vitruvian Park transforms into a magical holiday wonderland during Vitruvian Lights. Walk through the park to view the lights, gourmet food trucks, sweet treats, FREE photos with Santa, classic holiday characters, elf balloon artist, and Metrocrest Services Donation Drive plus live music! Get the details.

Vitruvian Lights

(Photo credit: Visit Addison Facebook)

11. Gift of Lights 

Texas Motor Speedway / Nov. 23 – Jan. 5, 2020

Tickets start at $30.

Head to Texas Motor Speedway for the Gift of Lights.  There you will see a fantastic light show, travel to Santa’s Village where you will meet Santa and experience what Christmas is like at the North Pole. First responders and military also get a special gift with a free 5 x 7 photo in Santa’s Village. Get the details. 

12. Holiday in the Park

Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington / Nov. 23-Jan. 6, 2020

Tickets vary.

If you’re looking for holiday thrills you’ll find them at Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Texas. Discover a winter wonderland filled with more than 1 million lights holiday attractions including a snow hill, visits with Santa, sing-a-longs, holiday shows and don’t forget the treats (s’mores!)  At the Merry Marketplace grab a few holiday gifts filled with holiday treats, shopping, and photo opportunities. 

  • More lights than ever before – over 1 million
  • Never-before-offered photo experience
  • Biggest menu of holiday treats we’ve ever offered
  • Extra rides open around the park
  • More glowing campfires and S’mores locations
  • Expanded Merry Marketplace area
  • New Holiday Bear toy drive

Get the details.

Arlington for the Holidays

13. Daystar Christmas

Daystar / Nov. 28 – Jan. 5, 2020

Free admission

I can’t believe for so many years I didn’t know about this event, but I’m so glad we do now! A beautiful, intimate way to spend the holidays together looking at lights and the life-size nativity scene, Daystar Christmas is even adding a massive drive-thru tunnel stretching 950 ft. with more than 11,000 Lights. There’s amazing backdrops for photos, there are visits with Santa and there’s even a coffee shop that you can visit with sweets, cocoa and more.  Get the details.

Daystar

14. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth’s annual Holiday Bricktacular

Grapevine Mills / Dec. 7 – Dec. 24

Prices: Admission is included in the normal ticket price. 

‘Tis the season for LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth’s annual Holiday Bricktacular! Holiday Bricktacular activities include:

  • Giant LEGO Holiday Creation: View the Master Model Builder’s newest creation. Last year was a 5-foot-tall Nutcracker!
  • Meet & Greet LEGO Santa: Meet jolly old LEGO® Santa and tell him about all the LEGO® sets you want this year.
  • Holiday Quilt Build:  Test your building skills by helping the Master Model Builder create an oversized, one-of-a-kind holiday LEGO® quilt.

Get the details.

LEGO Santa at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Hi-Res

15. SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium  

Grapevine Mills / Various dates and times through Dec. 21

Scheduled dives: 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Saturdays, December 7, 10, 14, 17 and 21

Price is included with regular admission 

Celebrate the holiday season and see Scuba Diving Santa, along with his elf, make a jolly appearance in a water wonderland at SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium amongst sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, fish and other marine life, with special holiday dive shows and other festive activities. The feature of this adventure is the Scuba Diving Santa Experience: a dive show like no other with a jolly red-suited diver, beard and all, along with his elf as they take the plunge in a magical dive show amongst the fish, sharks and stingrays in SEA LIFE Grapevine’s 160,000-gallon ocean tank. Pose for pictures and find out if Scuba Diving Santa thinks you’ve been naughty or nice.  Get the details. 

SeaLifeSanta

16. Holiday Sip and Shop

Fort Worth Botanic Gardens / Dec. 14

Prices: Free to shop. Photos with Santa are $10. Holiday Tea is $45 for adults and $35 for children.

First Sip and Shop of the season is just one of the Christmas events taking place on December 14 at BRIT and the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Get your last-minute shopping done at our local artisan market featuring handmade goods for purchase including beautiful ceramics, botanical jewelry, various artwork, home décor, bath and body products, sweets and treats, and much more! Santa will be in the garden for photos ($10). If you want to elevate the day even further you should participate in the Holiday Tea. Reservations required. Get the details.

Holiday Sip and shop

(photo credit City of FW )

17. GM Financial Parade of Lights

Sundance Square / Dec. 24

Prices: Free but reserved seating is available (highly recommended.)

The 37th edition of this Downtown Fort Worth signature event, is themed, “The Sounds of the Season,” and will feature music throughout the parade. Kick off the holiday season watching the 100+ floats as they make their way around downtown. Head Downtown early in the day for activities, food and holiday shopping before The Parade of Lights. This year, you can enjoy the 65 foot Christmas tree in Sundance Square before the parade. Get the details.

Holiday FW Parade

(Photo credit GM Financial Fort Worth Parade of Lights)

18. Dallas Holiday Parade

Dallas / Dec. 7

Prices: Free or you can have premier seating

After 31 years the Dallas Holiday Parade is stronger than ever for its 32nd annual event! Featuring booming marching bands, iconic characters, spirited floats and larger-than-life balloons. Be a part of the magic and give your children a holiday to remember. Pro Tip: Take the Dart. Get the details.

Holiday Dallas Parade

(photo credit Holiday Dallas Parade)

19. Dallas Zoo Lights

Dallas Zoo / Nov. 15 – Jan 5

Prices: $17 for adults and $14 for youth and seniors.

After the animals head in for the evening, the Dallas Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over one million twinkling lights illuminating the Zoo throughout the holiday season. Discover realistic silk-covered lanterns in the shape of your favorite animals, plus even more light displays and festivities for the entire family!

Dallas Zoo Lights Activities:

  • Holiday Light Show
  • Santa meet-and-greet
  • Nature ornament-making activity
  • Nightly musical performances throughout ZooNorth
  • Rainbow Arch
  • Whimsical African watering hole at Lantern Ridge
  • Santa’s Sleigh photo op
  • Elves’ Workshop at the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo with Animal Encounters every 30 minutes
  • S’mores, specialty donuts, funnel cakes, and hot chocolate

Get the details

Holiday zoo lights

(photo credit Dallas Zoo )

20. Highland Park Village’s Christmas Lights Celebration and Shopping Stroll

Highland Park / Dec. 5

Prices: Free 

Experience the magic of the holidays at Highland Park Village’s Christmas Lights Celebration and Shopping Stroll featuring spectacular live performances, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, exclusive store promotions, and special activations with community charity partners. For one evening only, sip and shop under the lights at historic Highland Park Village, Dallas’ landmark shopping and dining destination, during extended hours. Get the details.

Check back often: This list will update throughout the season. 

5 Holiday Reminders Every Mom Needs

By 76 Comments

Christmas is hard work. Take out the stress with Happy Cards and let the elves do the dirty work for a change. 

Thanks to the elves at Happy Cards for sharing this sponsored post how we can all get a little more happy this holiday.

If you have scissors in your hands as your wrap one of the countless numbers of gifts under the tree or plotting the demise of your “Elf on the Shelf” while you prop it for the daily antic before your children wake up, then you need to stop. 

I repeat: put down the scissors or the Elf. (Or in my case, both of them since the Elf was about to go down.) 


Happy-Cards

For most mamas, Christmas is one of the best (and worst) times of the year. You may not admit it (at least not aloud), but while you love those uploading your annual Santa’s photos with the kids for everyone to see, Christmas is hard work.

Yes, I said it.

If Cheesecake Factory, Saks Fifth Avenue off 5th, Panera Bread, Sephora, SpaFinder.com, Bed, Bath and Beyond, and Lord & Taylor makes you happy, then just keep reading. 

But before calling me a Grinch or a Scrooge, understand I love this time of year with beautiful decorations on everything from the fireplace to the mailbox, the look on the kids faces on Christmas morning when they unwrap the gifts, and all the other magic that comes with the holidays. But mama, you put in some serious work to make it all happen and you weren’t always smiling when you did it. Oh, I know I wasn’t…far from it.  


There’s nothing fun about interrupting the very precious hours of sleep you get for almost a month just to give life to a red inanimate “elf” with a creative theme that your kids will laugh at for :10 seconds in the morning. 

HappyCards (5 of 6)

Look closely. Very closely to see what’s happening to this Elf.

There’s nothing fun about climbing all over the outside (and inside) of your house while putting yourself in danger to put up lights, just to take them down again a month later. 

There’s nothing fun about trying to get just the right something for that someone and then bracing yourself when you have to be around them (even if you don’t really like them.) 

But for most moms, they wouldn’t have it any other way. Even for those of us that actually have to purchase our own gifts, wrap them to put under the tree, write our kids or spouses name on them, and then act like we’re surprised on Christmas morning. (Or in some cases, not get anything at all in your stocking because if you don’t do it, no one will.) 

Happy-Cards

However, we also know that nothing’s going to change and if we want the magic of Christmas to happen (and I know I’m not letting go of it), then we feel we have to do it. #MOMGUILT is real and we all make us feel like it’s what you have to do. 

But there are a couple of things you can do to put the HO-HO-HO back in the holidays rather than the BOO-HOO-HOO.

We all need to remember the following:

  1. No one is thinking why you didn’t coordinate your wrapping paper under the tree once they open the gift. 
  2. There is no mom award given at the end of the holidays for making it the best Christmas ever. 
  3. If you don’t make it to every Christmas event on the list, no one is going to know. 
  4. If you don’t send out Christmas cards this year, you can post a photo on Facebook and call it done. Or send an Easter card or try just writing a letter. 
  5. You don’t need to work so hard to find the right gift. Gift cards really do make people happy, so buy it and be done. 

Happy-Cards

Yes, gift cards. I know trying to find the “right card” is hard enough…but with Happy Cards, you can alleviate all that. Just pick one of the many cards and the giftee can choose what they want to get…and quite possibly more than one present. They can enjoy their favorite restaurant, start on the house project they’ve been waiting to do, or even get their resolutions moving – all with the Happy Card! 

Happy-Cards

Remember, what your family really wants is a mama that’s happy, rested and wants to enjoy Christmas. And honestly, so do I. So we’re happy the little elves at Happy Cards are sharing a $100 Happy Lady Happy Card for one lucky mama. 

So what are you waiting for? Enter below.

It’s just a click to get one step closer to a service from being a Happy Mama with a Happy Lady card from Happy Cards. And you have until Dec. 24 at midnight to enter. That’s all you have to do. (We’ll that and whatever you still have on your Christmas list – that probably isn’t necessary either.) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don't miss

Kellie Rasberry and Daughter Ripe to Help Us Find Affordable Style

By Leave a Comment

Have problems finding style mom and daughter can agree on? Kellie Rasberry and daughter ripe to help us find affordable style.

I knew the minute that my daughter came into this world that one day we would fight about clothes – just the same that my mom and I did when I was growing up.

(Photo credit: Allen Evans Photography)

It just wasn’t ready when it started at 3. Yes, 3. She wanted things that were pink and sparkled. I wanted things that were lady-like and more demure. While our fights about clothes are more along the lines of “you can’t wear your furry boots when it’s 100 degrees outside” at this point, I know we’re not long from the moment that “what is and what’s not appropriate” is soon in our midst.


And like many mamas and daughters – this same issue is the same impetus for what prompted mama Kellie Rasberry, along with her daughter, to create Emma Kellie & Me. Known for being the voice that wakes up and carries thousands of listeners in Dallas and in syndication across the U.S. on the long-standing Kidd Kraddick Show, the duo, decided it was time to take matters into their own hands by launching the clothing and accessories line “catered to women and women-in-training.” The line is focused on items that are on trend yet versatile and that will make mom and daughter both happy to wear.


I know we’re not long from the moment that “what is and what’s not appropriate” is soon in our midst.




Releasing only a few pieces at a time allows both of them to learn more about their customers’ wants and needs when it comes to what items are successful. And while the ladies are working to ensure the pieces, like a well-fitting pairing of jeans, a jacket and a clutch are what’s hot right now, they also want them to be lasting pieces in a wardrobe. Thankfully at most everything below the $100 price point, my pocket book and my closet can both stay full.

(Photo credit: Allen Evans Photography)

Take a look at a few of my favorites from the launch or take a look at the line yourself on the website now launched.

(Photo credit: Allen Evans Photography)

Go: Guide to Fredericksburg and Texas Wine Country

By Leave a Comment

Ever wanted to go to wine country? Look no further than Fredericksburg and Texas Wine Country. It’s a lot like Napa with a healthy dose of southern (and German) hospitality. And in Texas, everything is better. 

Thank you to Visit Fredericksburg and Stonewall Motor Lodge and or hosting us at some of these places so we could explore #FredTX.

“What have we gotten ourselves into?,” asked the lady through my window who just drove up next to us behind the rickety-metal building. 

Actually that same phrase had crossed our mind a few times during our stays (yes plural) in Fredericksburg/Stonewall/Hye. Each one an adventure and  each of one of them have always come out to be much better than we could ever imagine, which is why we keep going back to the area lovingly called “Texas Wine Country.” 


We reassured her that the sandwich she was about to have and that we had devoured was the best sandwich we had ever eaten – which is why we had come back a second time in two days.

And it was. This loaded BLT had everything on it but the kitchen sink and couldn’t make me any happier than a week at Disney World. 

Fredericksburg

Actually everything we had in the post office-turned-general-store-turned-restaurant-wine-tasting-still-post-office known as Hye Market was THAT good. Deceptively good as nothing there put on any heirs – it was what it was and that was why you loved it. It’s exactly the best example of why I love this part of Texas – it just is what it is and invites everyone to enjoy it. And if you just let go, you’ll have one of those “best days ever” experiences every time you visit (even if you don’t remember all the details.) 

I honestly couldn’t recommend this area any more and could give you so many recommendations of places to visit, must-dine locations and of course, wineries to try.

The first trip I ever took to what I thought was a small town called Fredericksburg was only 24 hours and it was there I discovered just how much there was in Texas Hill Country and scouted out where to explore the next time I came. The second time I came ready to enjoy all the fun, food and grapes I could – so much so that I came home with my own Garrison Brothers whiskey barrel and a few cases of wine (yep, cases.) It was a good time and we didn’t even begin to see it all, which is why I’ve been begging to go again. And now that I have, all I can say, I still can’t wait to go back. 

 So until then, here are some of the best places we’ve found in Texas Hill Country and Fredericksburg. And there’s even a list of more places that I’m considering for our next trip. 

Places to Stay in Texas Hill Country

The best part of Fredericksburg and the surrounding areas is that there are all different types of places to stay – from bed and breakfasts, motels, motor lodges and event tiny homes, you can have your pick. The only caveat is when there’s a big event in town which is when you need to make reservations well in advance. I appreciate also trying something a little different when in town than the normal “chain” experience. When it comes to wine country (Texas and California), I love motor lodges. They make it easy for access to your car (parked right outside the door), they have a cool retro vibe (they were all the rage in the 50s), are often very economical, and let’s be honest, you aren’t there to stay at the hotel. With so much to see and do, you won’t be there long, so you really need the bare essentials. 

Stonewall Motor Lodge

14818 US Hwy 290 E
Stonewall, TX, 78671

On our recent stay we were able to get a preview of the restored jewel, the Stonewall Motor Lodge. Nestled between Fredericksburg and Hye in the capital of Texas peach country, the Stonewall Motor Lodge was once a host to some of the biggest names in history, as it was built to house the media and the D.C. elite that came to the sleepy little town when President JFK was assassinated (including a special dark room just for the Associated Press.) But once all the hubbub died, so did the hotel stays. But now 50 years later (and the site of the best wine last year when it was purchased by a group of 10 family friends, they dived into bringing back the motor lodge and turning it back to the urban oasis that the huge number of tourists expect but the kitsch you want when you get away!  

Fredericksburg Inn & Suites

14818 US Hwy 290 E
Stonewall, TX, 78671

If you’re looking for something right inside town, inexpensive and close to everything, consider the Fredericksburg Inn & Suites. Just a few walkable blocks from the museum, this little gym also has a pool (that’s heated year-round.) We loved that we could walk to National Museum of the Pacific War and AND also not too far from the 290 Wine Tour shuttle pickup (the Saturday-only pick up shuttle that drops off every 10 minutes around the local wineries.) Plus it was super cute and what we needed for our stay. 

https://www.fredericksburg-inn.com/en-us

Things to Do in Fredericksburg and Texas Hill Country

Obviously, I’m going to share my favorite wineries in Texas wine country, but there is so much else to do here, too.  The food here is right on (don’t miss the German influence), shopping (furniture, clothes, and culinary), and the historical museums are AMAZING! While searching online on Visit Fredericksburg, but here are some of our notable favorites. 

National Museum of the Pacific War

340 E Main St.
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

If you love WWII, this is a must. The National Museum of Pacific War is a 6-acre, 3-museum complex and unique outdoor exhibit and is the only museum in the continental U.S. solely dedicated to telling the story of WWII in the Pacific. (Plan for several hours for this one as you will want to take your time here.) 

Wildseed Farms

100 Legacy Dr.
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Get ready for Instagram-worthy shots here. Open seven days a week and with no admission fee, Wildseed Farms is the the nation’s largest working wildflower farm with over 200 acres for over 35 years.  

I wasn’t even in search of this spot, but driving down road we came across Magnolia Pearl and knew we had to stop. Besides the fact that the exterior is stunning in a Miss Havisham meets Joanna Gaines meets the prairie kinda way, the inside of the cutting-edge fashion house from Robin Brown is filled with vintage looks as well as eye candy throughout. 

Shop Main Street

Best thing to do in downtown Fredericksburg is to get a wine or beer of choice and start shopping! There are plenty of house furnishings, lots of culinary goods, sweets, gifts, clothes, antiques – you name it! And you’ll enjoy it because about every 3-4 stores is somewhere to enjoy a new libation so you can keep going! 

FredTX (15 of 14)

Places to Eat in Texas Hill Country

Next to wine, this is my favorite thing to do in Hill Country. Besides the fact that the influence of German, Spanish and just good comfort food are all brought together in one spot, you don’t have to be dressed to nines or have a year-in-advance reservation to get a good table. Most the time if you ask real nice and order a glass of good local wine, you’ll get in pretty quick (or won’t care because you’re happy where you’re at.) 

Fredericksburg

Otto’s German Bistro

316 E Austin St.
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

I have a real obsession with Otto’s. Yes, it’s Germanesque, but there’s so much else on this menu too. And remember just because it’s German doesn’t mean it’s just brats and kraut (although the wurst plate is one of the best.) It’s pretty much everything on this menu that makes me happy – but above all it’s the flammkuchen (I say “flam” *like spam and then “kookin” but it’s probably wrong.) A simple looking flatbread that tastes like what dreams are made of with with crème fraiche, caramelized onions, comté and cambozola cheese, arugula, sun dried tomatoes, honey doe parmesan, and basil pesto. Basically, it’s what dreams are made of.  And this is just a starter.

Altstadt Brewery

6120 US HWY 290 East
Fredericksburg, Texas 78624

Call it a brewery, call it a restaurant, call it a lounge space, or call it beautiful, Altstadt Brewery is a must-stop in Fredericksburg. Not that there aren’t plenty of off-the-charts German restaurants in Hill Country or a places to get a beer, but this place is just beautiful. Debuting in 2018, the working brewery (tours are available 3 times a day) makes German biers while also creating German dishes that pair wonderfully. With some amazing indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s worth the stop to drink, eat or just be merry. 

Drinking in Texas Wine Country

One thing to know is that you don’t have to love wine, to love Texas wine country. There are many wineries here to spend years enjoying, but if you prefer beer, they have you covered here (see Alstadt above.) Then if you don’t like beer, then they have a few distilleries (I was actually told there are more than 5 but aren’t really on the radar yet), but a don’t miss is my favorite Garrison Brothers (that’s where the barrel came from and is an experience within itself.) So basically, if you enjoy a sip or a bottle, you’re good. 

Fredericksburg

With more than 50 wineries on record (and growing fast) in Texas Wine Country, you have quite the selection of experiences to enjoy. However, since you can’t see them all in one trip, here are a few of our favorites to guide you…until the next time. 

Fat Ass Ranch & Winery

51 Elgin-Behrends Rd.
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Anyone will tell you that Fat Ass is just fun to say aloud as one of your destinations for the day. For me this isn’t where you go with a refined palette, you go here to have a fun light-hearted experience. Definitely reserve your schedule here for when there are food trucks on site (yum!) and to pick up a few bottles for gifts (yes, they say Fat Ass.) Most of all, if you have a mixed set of folks that don’t necessarily like wine or this is their first tasting experience, this is a great first stop. 

Hilmy Cellars

12346 US-290
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Hilmy was actually my first winery to visit in Fredericksburg. There was just something about the door that drew me in and once inside, I was glad that it did. The very clean aesthetic has such a comfort to it as you’ll notice when the occasional rooster or dog comes walking in from the back patio. And that clean and simple feel is extended into the clean taste 100% Texas-raised wine. If you can score it, make sure to get a bottle of Doo.Zwa.Zo., but no matter what leave with a bottle since there aren’t many places you can find Hilmy. 

Messina Hof 

Oh Messina Hof and I have been friends for a while. My first visit was the “mothership” in Bryan to meet some of the most incredible leaders of Texas wines, the Bonarrigos family (for harvest), then the newest location in Grapevine to taste some fall wines with the family. So of course, I would HAVE to visit the Fredericksburg location sitting on 10 acres, complete with a winery, tasting room, and bed & breakfast! And like they say, it is like family here, so pull up to the bar and ask what they like and why. Then try it. Don’t be surprised if you like something different than you’d expect – and if you don’t like it, don’t worry like family, they’ll be ok with it. 

Sitting on nearly 10 acres in the heart of Texas wine country along Highway 290, this winery also has its own vineyard. The Lenoir grapes grown at this location go into the making of more traditional style ports.

Pedernales Cellars 

2916 Upper Albert Rd.
Stonewall, TX 78671

While you won’t find any vines here, you will find the largest underground wine cellar in the state of Texas. When we visited we were able to tour the cellar and taste several of their impressive wines including the 2016 Texas Albariño, 2016 Texas Roussanne, 2018 Over the Moon, 2016 Texas High Plains Tempranillo, 2016 Tempranillo Reserve, 2016 Newsom vineyards North Block and 2017 Viognier Reserve. While they are noted for their Tempranillo Reserve (this is a Texas hallmark), the Over the Moon won over my heart. The story is worth hearing for yourself. 

Kuhlman Cellars 

18421 E U.S. HWY 290
Stonewall, TX 78671

The Herbed Marcona Almonds is how they get you in the door, but the experience and hospitality will keep you here. “Kuhlman Cellars believes wine promotes an appreciation of life’s journey,” and you can tell throughout everything they do here (plus the view is outstanding so you might never leave.) This is a wonderful place to go when you want that picturesque wine and food tasting experience curated by their own sommeliers and reasonably priced.) Y’all, they have some lovely wine keeping with the refined skills of French-based winemaking including some of these proprietary blends.

Becker Vineyards

464 Becker Farms Rd.
Stonewall, Texas 78671

Not to far from the Stonewall Motor Lodge, you’ll find the beautiful, 10,000 sq. ft. reproduction of a German stone barn called Becker Vineyards. The winery is the largest purchaser of French and American Oak barrels in the state of Texas, so basically they do a lot of winin’ here – mostly, reds, whites and roses (which I bought multiple bottles of.) I admit this was one of my favorites and their staff make you feel so at home…it was just unfortunate that I had so much fun that I couldn’t find the photos I took. Here you’ll also find lavender, other great wine gifts, and will definitely want to take some photos. 

4.0 Cellars 

10354 E, 5761, US-290
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Last, but certainly not least is 4.0 Cellars (yes, say the point.) What I loved about this winery is that 4.0 Cellars was inspired by the three separate wineries that came together to form what they call is a “matchless fourth winery,” plus Veldhuizen Cheese served onsite to make it even better. Brennan Vineyards, Lost Oak Winery, and McPherson Cellars, which are located respectively in Comanche, Burleson, and Lubbock, have collaborated to create a huge tasting experience in an grand space with several special events happening all the time (so check the calendar!) 

And no trip to Texas Hill Country without a trip to Hye! With just a population of less than 225, I bet you think what could possibly be here that’s so fantastic…but it is. Really. And I can’t wait to share more with you about Hye, Texas! (yes, it’s that great and worth more than just a stop!) But you’ll have to wait for our special guide to Hye! (Yes, it’s worth the wait!) 

Now actually that’s not the end of my list of places to go and experience…I have several places that I haven’t been that I cannot wait to go – and soon! So if you have any ideas, please share where to go in Texas Wine Country! 

Fred (6 of 63)

Fredericksburg

 

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Follow Along!