Autumn Rose Reo

Score: First Timers Guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium

June 22, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Dallas Fort Worth isn’t just home to the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers…there are several other national teams including FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium. If you’re headed to a game, then here’s our First Timers Guide to a FC Dallas Game.

Thanks to Toyota for an amazing afternoon kicking it with FC Dallas in my Toyota 2018 Camry and this sponsored post.

Being a Texas girl, I’ve done my time at the football game and many lazy afternoons at baseball fields. So I pretty much knew what to expect the first time I went to a Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium and headed to Globe Life Park (remember I used to be in walkable distance of there?) But my first professional REAL football (as called by the rest of the world AKA – soccer), I wasn’t quite ready at all.

So my friends at Toyota decided it was time to school this Texas girl on all things “football” at Toyota Stadium – home to the FC Dallas for its opening day. If you may not have heard of it, Toyota Stadium and Toyota Soccer Center is a 145-acre multipurpose sports and entertainment facility in Frisco, Texas. Home stadium for FC Dallas and hosts the FCS Championship Game, the Frisco Bowl as well a variety of concerts, tournaments and other events, this venue will also soon be the home of the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

The combination of a world-class stadium and a sports park make Toyota Stadium one of the best and most unique soccer facilities in the world. Included in the facility is the 20,500 state-of-the-art pro soccer stadium and 17 tournament-sized fields.

So we headed in a beautiful red 2018 Toyota Camry (talk about showing our spirit) to enjoy the fun…And man, the fun we did have as well as learn a lot about FC Dallas games.

Here’s our First Timer’s Guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium

Get Your Tickets

This might seem to be obvious but you actually can order tickets for the whole season as well as single games. There are several areas to also consider when purchasing your tickets including the East Field Box, Beer Garden and of course, suites as well as general seating. If it was up to me, I think hanging with the “real fans” on the field as part of the drum squad – they knew what was up. And our seats under the suites, but still in a covered shaded area were pretty sweet (because it’s HOT!)

AND remember: Children three (3) feet and under are not required to have a ticket for admission but must sit on the lap of a ticketed guardian.

Did you know you can also host birthday parties at Toyota Stadium or bring your work team for the game? FC Dallas can show ’em how team works happens – plus it’s a whole new way to kick it!

What to Wear

Like any sporting event, you want to show your spirit for the team with jerseys, shirts, hats, etc. Thankfully, many of us already have a red, white or blue clothing to donn for the day. You can always head to the Team Shop or FCDallasGear.com in advance as well, but whatever you do, just make sure it’s tasteful (ok to be around all ages that is!) Comfortable shoes and hat (to shield the sun) will be great. Also, make sure to throw on that first layer of sunscreen!

What to Bring

In effect this year the stadium has gone to a no purse/handbag rule except bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 14” x 6” x 14”. Of course there are exceptions which you can check online, but make it easy on yourself and just don’t bring it – unless it’s a flag – because those are ok (just check the policy first.)

If you plan to tailgate, then you’ll need to load up the car with what you need for proper tailgating, but leave your open air grill at home because they’re not allowed. Stake your space early as well – parking here like any game can get complicated!

Most of all, make sure not to bring any of the following because you can’t bring it in with you to the facility:

Items NOT permitted:

Weapons of any kind (i.e. knives (including pocket knives), pepper spray, stun-guns, slingshots, concealed weapons, firearms etc.)
Fireworks of any kind (including smoke bombs and flares)
No glass and plastic bottles, cans, cups, coolers, containers, food or beverages of any kind
Air horns, whistles, seat cushions
Illegal drugs or chemicals
Laser pointers
Cups
Bags larger than 14x14x6
Inflated Soccer Balls
Umbrellas
Animals (except service animals)
Un-approved pamphlets, handouts, advertisements, etc.
Skateboards, roller blades, roller skates, etc.

Thankfully, the booths mostly take credit cards, but cash sometimes makes things easier too when it comes to make things go faster!

Where to Park

It pays to drive a Toyota — especially to Toyota Stadium. If driving around a NEW Toyota Camry to the game wasn’t enough – if you have a Toyota you get the UPGRADE!

FC Dallas fans driving their Toyota vehicles to FC Dallas home matches will receive complimentary Toyota Preferred Parking located in the South Sienna Blue Stadium East Lot.
- The reserved Toyota Preferred Parking spaces reach capacity quickly and are available on a first-come, first serve basis.
- Fans are encouraged to arrive 60-minutes prior to kick.
Free parking remains available for all guests to FC Dallas home matches in all the Corolla Red Stadium West Lots, the Highlander Green Lots and the RAV4 White Lot.
Preferred public parking is located in the Camry Gold Lot. The Cost to park in the Camry Gold Lot is $20.

If you don’t come early to enjoy the festivities, then just know you’ll be walking a little bit to the other outlying parking. And it’s a bit of a trek with littles, so plan accordingly. (And remember, no bags and no rentry, so only take what you need!)

What to Expect

Everyone goes through security – no matter the age and has their items checked. The process is easy and once you’re in – the fun begins!

If you’re like me, you like to have a lay of the land – where the food is, where the exits are, and most importantly, where the bathrooms are. So take a look here to acclimated before you go. It’s easy to navigate once you get there as it’s an open space in a big circle.

Now what? Then let’s have some fun! Lots of red, white and blue (the colors of FC Dallas), lots of spirit, and a lot of Toyota love (of course!) This one is rather perfect, don’t you think?

As for the festivities – get ready and come for the full game so you don’t miss them! There’s fireworks, chants, and much more that aren’t always at other games! Make sure to take in the whole experience.

What to Eat

This might have been one of my favorite things I discovered about Toyota Stadium. Most stadiums may have a beer sponsor, but at Toyota, we have a tequila sponsor – Lunazul! So the margaritas here are really good – especially when you’re sitting in the heat! But that’s not all my friends… There was other great cocktails to enjoy too all around the stadium including an Old Fashioned and of course, several beer selections!

We may have covered the drinks, but what about the eats? There are 10 booths serving food at Toyota Stadium. You’ll find your usual suspects like fries, nachos, and burgers. But keep looking – you’ll also find some killer street tacos, elotes and even smothered tater tots! The food was legit and also reasonable, so this stadium gets a two thumbs up!

I hope this guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium helps you take on the day like a pro! You’ll have a great time and get ready for a lot of fun!

Make note if you’re visiting in 2018:

Imagine Dragons? Yes, please!

Why Mom Needs to Play

June 1, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 9 Comments

When’s the last time you played with your kids? Forget the sidelines because Mom Needs to Play!

Thanks to The Crayola Experience and Dunkin Donuts for partnering with mamachallenge for some great giveaways.

When is the last time you “played” with your kids?

Not just watched them but played with them?

Studies show that moms that play with their kids vs. just managed, monitor, or act as the organizer are happier as individuals. And a bonus: seeing mom at play (and happy doing it) also creates a stronger bond with the kids to see you be happy.

Science also shows that the more productive and creative moms at play initiated the release of dopamine, the chemical that actually makes you happy.

Happy Mama, Happier Family.

Now this doesn’t mean you aren’t the parent, it’s more that you are involved in the process rather than administer it all the time. I remember as a kid, going swimming meant your parent watched you swim. And as a parent, I’ve done the same thing, but my kids have asked, can’t you go swimming with us? That’s parenting gold – simple request for such a simple thing to make them happy and it’s exercise!

Another poll asked kids what invention they hated most and the #1 answer was cell phones because their kids were always on them! That says a lot, right?

I actually asked my Facebook friends what’s something they loved as kids and quit doing as adults. The list filled up quick – with tons of things they loved doing and hadn’t done in years. But almost every one of them couldn’t be done with the kids.

More Ideas on this Topic:

Well Played: The Ultimate Guide to Awakening Your Family’s Playful Spirit

Playful Parenting: An Exciting New Approach to Raising Children That Will Help You Nurture Close Connections, Solve Behavior Problems, and Encourage Confidence

The Kidult Handbook: From Blanket Forts to Capture the Flag a Grownup’s Guide to Playing Like a Kid

So what are you waiting for?

100 Ways to Get Out There and Play Printable

Need some more starters? We have a list of 100 things you can do to play with your kids!

Download your free 100 Ways to Get Out There and Play Printable, then put it on the fridge and get ready for fun!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Playful Giveaways – Enter to Win

It doesn’t have to be hard or work, just fun! Start off coloring with your kids (or head to The new Crayola Experience in Plano and don’t just watch, but color yourself), make a pillow fort, sleep under the stars, or today’s National Donut Day, so go to Dunkin Donuts and get a free donut!

About the Crayola Experience

Explore the Crayola Experience at The Shops at Willow Bend in Plano, Texas is where the magic of Crayola comes to life! Let your creativity run wild, color outside the lines, learn, explore and learn. This is an attraction the whole family can enjoy a colorful adventure for a child (and an adult’s) imagination!

The Crayola Experience in Plano is giving away four passes to get you in the colorful mood!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About Dunkin Donuts

What do you not know about Dunkin Donuts? It’s What America runs on. From coffee, to donuts and everything in between Dunkin Donuts make is your one spot for sweets, treats, and breakfast eats!

Dunkin Donuts is making it even easier to celebrate National Donut Day by sharing a $50 gift card with one special mamachallenge reader.

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Knock, Knock! It’s Your Refrigerator

May 31, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Knock, Knock…who’s there? It’s your new fridge and all your other LG smart appliances helping you to make life easier.

Thank you to Best Buy for sharing the light and this great deal with this sponsored post.

How many times have you thought “I wish there were three of me?”

Or how about “Can I just have a maid?”

Or just wondered why the dishwasher could tell you how much was left of a cycle so you wouldn’t have to leave the couch during your binge watch of the Handmaid’s Tale?

Move over Jetson’s because the time is now – especially at Best Buy with a great deal.

And these appliances are so sleek and beautiful and they clean, cook and keep it cool.

Even a mama with a kitchen full of new appliances can appreciate an upgrade. And these LG’s are such an upgrade. (And black is my favorite color!)

LG’s exclusive Matte Black stainless steel combines the timeless look of stainless steel with a luxe & low-gloss matte finish that compliments any kitchen décor. These LG smart kitchen appliances are wi-fi and voice-enabled, allowing you to control your kitchen appliances remotely — from changing settings, to checking the status, or turning on or off. These smart appliances make life easier.

LG INSTAVIEW DOOR-IN-DOOR

These cutting-edge refrigerators bring distinctive styling and innovation to your kitchen with a tinted glass panel that allows you to see inside the easy-access door without letting the cold air out. Simply knock twice on the glass to illuminate the contents within. Plus with up to 30 cubic feet of usable space, you always have room for whatever your fridge holds. AND they repel all those gross little fingerprints.

LG SIDEKICK — PART OF THE LG TWINWASH SYSTEM

Meet your newest laundry ally — LG’s ingenious SideKick washer. Disguised as an everyday pedestal, this mini LG washer pairs with almost any LG front loading unit, so you can wash two loads at the same time.

LG washers and dryers with SmartThinQ® technology will change the way you do laundry. You can start and stop wash cycles remotely, get updates when laundry is done and even receive reminders about scheduled maintenance.

Special deal at Best Buy on LG’s smartest appliances now until July 11:

Summer Kitchen Bundle

Purchase a 4-piece Kitchen Bundle and receive up to $400 INSTANT rebate. LG and LG Studio models are eligible for this offer.
The offer covers both Memorial Day and Independence Day.

LG Ultimate Laundry Room Rebate

Purchase a qualifying laundry bundle and receive up to a $400 rebate

Learn more about these LG appliances on the Best Buy website.

Cleaning Out the Crap

May 11, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Are you at that place that your life just needs a big purge? It’s not easy to clean out the crap, but the process is necessary to get to the best parts of you.

Thanks to spa810 Uptown for helping us all to to clean it up and make it better with this giveaway!

At the end of 2017, I counted down the days for change.

I was ready to climb out of my skin and try on something different for 2018.

It so needed to happen.

I don’t know how I thought that was gonna happen without work. And let me tell you it’s been work.

The name of my game in 2018 has been PURGE.

I think HOARDERS should’ve kept a camera on me for the last few months as I’ve cleaned out one house; getting rid of 12 years of stuff we’d accumulated in the only home my family has ever lived in. Then in just over a weekend moving into a brand new house (<——see that’s house not home) that while it says it’s bigger, I cannot understand for the life of me how we have so much stuff STILL. So the purging continued and continues today (there are so many boxes that I’m still not going to show.)

What I found out with each piece is that it isn’t just stuff, but I had wrapped up memories in every single article. When pulling out something out of the box, my reactions seemed so vivid of the memories that you would have thought they happened yesterday. And man it was just a wine glass…You should have seen the tears roll down when I pulled out the first onesie I bought my daughter. That was drama.

So needless to say, it was hard for me to purge. And I’m still not even done.

I think there’s something like 20 boxes left and several of them ready to go when I finally find a way to get rid of the stuff (hey, some of this crap is brand spanking new!)

But the purge wasn’t just stuff around the house.

The purge needed to be me – inside and out.

All the crap in my head that I was believing about myself – it needed to shutdown.

“You’re not good enough”

“You’ll never be anything”

“You have’t done your part”

“You aren’t good enough”

“Your so ugly”

“Your body is so ugly.”

Those statements were like a shuffle and repeat.

So like many women, I began to believe them. And when you do that, it’s true – no matter what anyone else says.

I just wanted to roll up in a ball in the closet, but unfortunately the new house didn’t have any shelves yet so all the clothes were on the floor so there wasn’t any room to roll up so I got that much more upset.

I don’t tell you this to pity me, I tell you this because I know I’m not the only one. And so many others I know are going through this same feeling. A need for change, a need to clean up all that crap in my head, in my heart, and for me, all that crap sitting around my new house.

Want to know the moment I woke up?

It was when my son asked if we could just move back home because this place felt so empty. And he was right. Nothing was on the walls, Home Depot boxes strewn everywhere two months later, and a mom who couldn’t make turn the page to this brand new chapter of our life.

Oh where did I go wrong.

It was so past time to clean up my crap – mentally and physically.

But like the purging, it wasn’t going to be easy. Like an onion, I was going to have to pull off all the layers, one piece at a time.

I hadn’t been nice to me lately so even though I know water was everything, I was dry. And washing my face, whatever. Looking at the mirror, I felt like I had aged 10 years over the last 6 months. You could see it in my eyes, you could see it in my new gray hairs and you could see it in my skin.

Who was the woman in the mirror?

So it was time to remember.

I booked an appointment to spa810 Uptown to not just get a good cleaning. And not just a facial but HydraFacial MD with a NIR Skin Tightening, Lymphatic Drainage would help the purge make a bigger difference.

So of course, you’re asking what’s the difference between a facial and a Hydrafacial?

Good question.

At spa810 you can score a great facial with ultra sonic exfoliation treatment, lip plumping treatment, an eye treatment to address fine lines and dark circles, a neck and shoulder decollate massage, and a brow wax and shape.

Not so bad, right? And at less than $100 it’s a great deal.

But a Hydrafacial?

Basically you get all the facial results like cleansing, extractions and even an acid peel all from this little tool that sounds kinda like a motorized toothbrush that slices, dices, and julienne fries…Sometimes it’s vacuuming, sometimes it’s adding serum and collagen to the face, it’s rather amazing all of these actions happening with one machine.

It’s a four-step process and when you’re done, you get to see all the crap they pulled from your face (nothing like seeing that to remind you to wash your face at night!)

HydraFacial Process

Cleansing and exfoliation
Acid Peel
Extractions
Serum Application

And then you’re ready to roll – in just about 30 minutes and without a huge red face that makes you want to roll into a ball again (which is exactly what I didn’t need to be doing!) The service wasn’t just fast, but they made me feel relaxed immediately and explained every step throughout the process, so I didn’t feel hurried, but I could get what I needed done in a lunch break.

I also added on the Lymphatic drainage (yep, getting out more of the fluid and junk in my skin) and skin tightening (felt a lot like a sonogram on my face), but I’ll take it to make things kinda go back where they’re supposed to.

Take a look at all of this (if you like that kind of stuff.)

So did getting a HydraFacial Sculpt fix everything?

No it didn’t. But it did make me take care of myself which was the first step in my mental purging process. And my skin did feel a lot better, so I could head off to Beverly Hills to have drinks with Lisa Vanderpump and dinner with Taye Diggs.

That’s an improvement, right?

So if you need a nudge to get your purging process I’d suggest you get moving in the right direction at spa810 in Uptown Dallas. And right now with so many Mother’s Day specials going throughout the month of May, you can get the same treatment I received at more than half off (just $149.) You can also get a massage with either a skin-tightening treatment or a trip to the Alpha-Fusion Pod for less than $100. So that’s something to celebrate.

And a one lucky reader will get to celebrate even more with a $50 gift certificate to use at spa810 in Uptown.

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Mother’s Day Made Easy

May 8, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Think getting something mom wants for Mother’s Day is hard? Take it from this mama, you don’t have to work too hard (or pay too much) to get her something she’ll really want.

Thanks to JCPenney for making it easy with this sponsored post.

As mamas we actually don’t expect much. We’re actually kinda used to it (as experienced at Christmas as most of the gifts under the tree are researched, purchased and wrapped by us.) But at Mother’s Day, we do (no matter what we say) kinda want a little something.

While we’ve taught you that it’s the thought that counts (and believe me you score points when you do), it’s nice that it’s not always something that we’d like to have too. Now there’s plenty of things we need (ask any mom and even though she swears there’s nothing she wants, she has a list somewhere.)

Mother’s Day Gift Tip: Head to her Pinterest for great gift ideas she’s secretly thinking about.

While most moms will be happy with a card, a craft or even a hug, kiss or a phone call… it doesn’t hurt to give her something she’s gonna love. For me, after moving, I’ll be honest, my list is SOOOO long.

I need stuff for the house.
I need new summer sandals (to replace all the ones I threw away because they were so old my kids had never seen some of them.)
I always need a new handbag (because Mom’s handbag is really everyone’s tote, right?)
I need new clothes (new season means a new reason, right)

And well you get the picture.

On a recent trip to Pasadena for Mom 2.0, I wanted to get a few staples that could go in a suitcase without the worry of too many wrinkles, that also felt good for a morning meeting or an evening out. Unfortunately, I had about 30 minutes to do a spring through JCPenney.

But honestly, in my 20 minutes I found a Liz Claiborne clutch that doubled as a charging station (huge for a conference where everyone is taking photos and video), Liz Claiborne summer white jeans, and a Worthington mushroom taupe tunic (channeling my inner JLO) for the trip. The beautiful flowing top was forgiving in all the right places, but had just enough flair to show a little bit of skin and a little bit of spunk. Plus I was able to grab a bottle of dry shampoo too. All on one floor. All in 20 minutes. All at JCPenney.

I found a lot more too (including some adorable Mommy & Me matching dresses) that I would be bringing me after the trip. So see if you think that it’s going to take awhile to find her a gift, you don’t have to work that hard. Plus with some gifts including a set of pearls already boxed to give for just $10, you’re taking longer thinking about it then just going, buying, and then giving.

Here are a few picks of what I purchased that also doubled as good buys for summer travel. But with so much at JCPenney Mother’s Day, check out the flier to really save yourself some time and give you a few ideas.)

And if you’d heed your own mama’s advice, you know she’d prefer you be smart with your time and your money. And listening to your mama always makes her happy, right?

Now you have time to take her to brunch too 🙂

Make Mother’s Day a Charming Tradition

May 7, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 12 Comments

Don’t just celebrate Mother’s Day, make it a charming tradition to look forward with something just for you and her. #MyJamesAvery

Thank you to James Avery for this special Mother’s Day offer and this sponsored post.

Mother’s Day.

It’s normally a day that people send flowers or take mom to brunch or make a card or sometimes just let her not do anything.

While those are all things I love (who doesn’t), this year I wanted it to be different. I wanted it to be a day that I didn’t just look forward to, but my daughter, who possibly, hopefully, will have a daughter of her own, will look forward to as well…a new family tradition.

As a storyteller, my whole life and everything around it, what I wear, what’s in my house, the music I listen to, all have an experience attached to them. My life is much like a charm bracelet, where each small, delicate charm signifies a milestone, big or small, that makes my life what it has become.

My baby girl is definitely one of the biggest milestones I’ve ever had.

“It’s a girl,” the Dr. showed me on the sonogram more than six years ago.

And then it happened.

All the color just went away from my face and the flood of emotion took over my whole body.

From the moment I found out I had a daughter on the way, I’ve experienced an overwhelming responsibility to not just be her mother, but the female role model in her life that, God willing, will make her strong, proud, kind, smart, independent and all those other amazing qualities you want your daughter to possess.

While it’s been quite the journey and I’m sure with her vivacious sense of life, it will always been an adventure, I wanted to share something with her. Something that would continue to tell my story and something that she could have; to begin telling her story, too.

So one warm Sunday, we put on our girl dresses. She even snuck on a little bit (too much) lipstick, but she was so proud I didn’t make her take it off and headed for our girl day. On our way, we listened to our favorite girl songs a little too loud. And we headed to James Avery.

James Avery is a family-owned, Texas-born, Texas-based jeweler based in Kerrville that began more than 50 years ago. Started on family and faith, the jeweler offers more than 1,100 designs and has more than 14,000 separate jewelry items in the product line.

“I strive to keep designs from being contrived, cluttered or cute. The challenge is to keep things simple.” James Avery

Her first time in a fancy jewelry store, my heart immediately began to swell after I told her to “go find her favorite.” Her instructions were that she could find her favorite charm and I would find one to give to her as the beginning of her charm bracelet to have one day. At 6 years old a nice piece like James Avery was a little much to wear to school, but ok for those special occasions. Until then, I’d wear it.

And then the story changed a little: James Avery was running a Mother’s Day special offering a free bracelet (or necklace) for free with the purchase of two charms. Somehow it wasn’t just going to be a charm bracelet for her, but for me too.

With so many charms to choose from including the special Texas legend that has taken over social media, as well as anything from a stand-up mixer to a tube lipstick, the selection process was a big part of the fun. Taylor couldn’t help to find a beautiful cupcake and a princess tiara…so fitting for my sweet little princess.

For my bracelet (and ultimately hers), I was drawn to the “Mother’s Love,” a heart design that embodies a mother and daughter; and a rose, well…because our middle names are both Rose.

After making our purchases (and saving so much more than I expecting with the Mother’s Day offer), we enjoyed dinner together at The Theodore where we could enjoy “fancy mac n cheese” (her special request) and drink fancy glasses of Shirley Temple.

Now this is a Mother’s Day tradition I could get used to. And I think James Avery was smiling down thinking that’s exactly what he had wanted for everyone.

And now we have something else to look forward, next Mother’s Day with our own charming tradition.

James Avery Charming Mother’s Day Offer

Now through May 29, buy two charms and receive a charm bracelet or necklace for free, up to a $70 value.
There are so many mix-and-match necklace/bracelet options available with 15 styles to select.
Create your personalized gift in-store or at JamesAvery.com stores.
For specific questions on this offer, check with your store for more details.

Doing More for Teachers: Sonic Limeades for Learning {Giveaway}

April 30, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 40 Comments

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7-11, but it shouldn’t end there. Join SONIC in making a bigger impact to help our teachers through Limeades for Learning. Plus help give directly to a teacher in need!

Thanks to Sonic for this opportunity to give back to our teachers and this giveaway.

I remember in 5th grade my teacher Mrs. Simms awarded a few students (including me) for a job well done with a trip to Sonic for tots and an ice-cold Cherry Limeade.

I still remember how proud I was that day.

From that point forward, Cherry Limeades would become the signal of other big milestones, some good and some bad, but the limeade was about helping to get me to the next big thing. And with each sip I was propeling myself towards being better, doing better, and recognizing when I done a job well done.

Turns out Cherry Limeades do that for a lot of people.

They taste good, but they also make them feel good, and also say job well done. Funny how just that styrofoam cup can do so much…just ask any teacher whose PTA brought in Limeades to say THANK YOU. Next week several volunteers plan to load up and do exactly that (and much more too) with activities to say “Teacher, You are a Star.” It’s a nice thing to do and the kids love it as well!

But you know what? Why stop there. Especially when teachers are still working throughout the year, including summers, with less-than-average pay and even chipping in more than $500 of their own money for supplies to make their classrooms better for our kids. So in 2009 SONIC has stepped up to the plate to help public school teachers do more with a little help, like $3 million dollars a year in help.

SONIC’s Limeades for Learning then teamed up 10 years ago with DonorsChoose.org to not only get them help for specific projects but also initiate donations on the smaller level that can make a BIG difference. More than $95 million to public school teachers nationwide has been funded by this partnership to get teachers what they need to teach and students the vital items they need to learn.

Here in Arlington there are several different projects like:

Mrs. Adger-Barton who is hoping to get money for LEGOs to help teach STEM education in her school.
Ms. Kilgore who is looking to get fresh school supplies for the new school year.
Ms. Sanson who hopes a book cart and stools will help encourage reading in her classroom.

Wonder about the products requested, pricing and more? The teacher actually provides the specific items, costs and details that are then verified by a member of the DonorsChoose team.

Don’t see a school you want to help fund or know a teacher that is in need of some special items for your classroom? You can learn how to sign up here and even have the first project matched.

Three times a year SONIC makes $1 million donations to public schools:

1. During the Fall Voting Campaign, which typically runs from late September through October
2. Throughout the months of January through April during a series of surprise funding events in cities across the country – as an example, today SONIC funded 75 teacher projects from across the country in honor of National Handwriting Day
3. Throughout the month of May during #ThanksTeach, a social media campaign encouraging consumers to thank their favorite teachers during Teacher Appreciation Month

And with your help and support by 2021 SONIC’s total contribution to local public school classrooms will exceed $20 million.

Want to make a difference in a classroom?

Enter to win a $200 DonorsChoose.org gift card now that can be used towards any public school teacher project that inspires you plus receive a $50 Sonic gift card for more limeade fun.

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5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking

April 20, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

In today’s test-taking focused environment, we all have a part in making the grade. Help your kid do their best with 5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking.

Thanks to McDonalds of North Texas for sponsoring this post.

One of those less than fun moments is doing homework with your kids.

It’s rough, especially when you’ve had a long day and you just want to get everything scratched your ever-growing list of things to do before you go bed to do your “adult homework.” But it’s one of those things you’ve signed up as a parent and when they’re young, indoctrinating those good study habits is absolutely what’s necessary to lay the framework for them now so they aren’t asking you to help them with their homework when you no longer can help.

Read between the lines: Help them now so you don’t have to help them later.

And when it comes to the big test, it’s so important to give them what they need to ace it. All kids are different – some are awesome at test-taking and some not so much. But with a few strategies (for both of you), it’s possible to make it through school in one piece.

5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking

Engage.

“How was your day?”

Just knowing what your kid is working on is key to their success and can answer a lot about knowing where their focus is (and isn’t.) In the evenings, homework is something we do as a family and as parents we try to take turns at overseeing and helping our kids. For us, this is so the kids know it’s a priority so they should to. Another reason engaging with them is that we know what parts are easy for them (and not so easy) and you can work on it together. From there we can reach out to their teachers if necessary when a concept isn’t catching on. Having an open line of communication with your child’s teacher is so vital to ensuring so when it’s time to take the test, we aren’t finding out the problem when it’s too late.

Encourage.

We all know that getting the pat on the back feels good and makes us want to do the right thing again and again. At our child’s school, during big tests we as parents were asked to write letters for the kids to open before taking their test to inspire them and help mitigate any anxiety the kids have before taking a long test like the STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness.) A post-it in their lunchbox or backpack can do the same thing to show you are in their corner.

Nourish.

Good sleep and a nutritious meal before a big test is such a simple, but necessary way to set them up for success. There’s nothing worse than feeling groggy or hungry to get in the way at the task at hand, especially during a long standardized test. And studies show that when kids get at least 8-10 hours of sleep and eat a healthy, balanced breakfast they do better at test-taking period.

Our local McDonalds of North Texas, with 363 restaurants throughout DFW and Tyler, works to help parents with this easy step by providing a free healthy breakfast the day of the STAAR test, Texas’ standardized test. They know parents are rushed in the mornings and just finding a few moments to take breathe and eat a breakfast will go the extra mile. The free breakfast options like the Egg White McMuffin Delight, apple slices and oatmeal are part of McDonald’s Dietitian Approved Menu, part of the fast food giant’s commitment to education and offering healthier options for families. When it’s free and healthy, McDonald’s makes it rather difficult not to make this strategy a no-brainer and to show how it important it is to make healthy happen.

Recognize.

After all the buildup of a big test, it’s good to show credit where credit was due, especially if you find out your child did gave a good effort and even more so if they scored well. They should be rewarded, especially for the big test, but that doesn’t mean it has to be big. It could be something as small as grabbing an ice cream cone and a little playground time that will reinforce a job well done is worth the effort. And what if your kid doesn’t do so great, but you know they did their best? Punishment isn’t going to help them do better, so encouraging them to still get it their all every time will reap success in the long run.

Support.

Yes, it’s good to say a job well done, but sometimes the test doesn’t always go well. That doesn’t mean kids shouldn’t feel your support and hear the words “I’m proud of you.” For instance, I asked my son how a test went and I found out he had tons of reading time because he was the first to finish. Later after we received his results, it wasn’t that he knew the material that well, but it was that he wanted that extra fun time to read. So the next time I spent a lot of our studying explaining the importance of taking our time and checking our work, not being the first one done. This was so important for us to learn now so the next test he was armed with better test-taking strategies.

No matter their age, being a parent doesn’t just mean that their education is the responsibility of their school. As a community, we all have to work today together for the success of their future tomorrow.

About McDonalds of North Texas Commitment to Education

In addition to providing healthy breakfast during the STAAR test, McDonald’s continues to show its commitment to education. In addition to this program, the Archways to Opportunity™ program helps its employees further their own education and achieve their dreams by offering English classes, earn a high school diploma, work towards a college degree and help create an educational plan for success. There are also scholarships opportunities and tons of other resources on the website.

My Princess Moment: This Weekend!

March 14, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Spring Break just got a lot sweeter for your little princess! Make it a royal weekend with “My Princess Moment” in Fort Worth.

Laying there on the table, looking up on the ceiling, I remember when I was told I was having a girl.

Visions of all things pink and princesses came flooding through my brain.

Since that day seven years ago, I’ve had time to adjust to all things sparkles, tea parties and seeing all things through pink-tinted glasses. So when I see anything princess I know it’s a must for mine.

My Princess Moment is a special event coming to Fort Worth this weekend, Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17.

My Princess Moment waves its magic wand to bring an awe-inspiring experience to Fort Worth, where magical moments make lifelong memories. Bring your little princess to meet her favorite princess while enjoying fun activities! The Grand Ballroom for special meet-and-greets, Royal Tea Party, a Party Dance Party and Princess Photo Session.

Afterward make a royal evening of it in Sundance Square which is just a few steps away with tons of restaurants and the beautiful water fountains!

Save 25% off a maximum of four General Admission or VIP tickets when you use the promo code MPM_PK25 here.

More about My Princess Moment. It’s a princess dream come true! General Admission access allows junior princesses a two-hour progressive experience from the ballroom, to a tea party, to one-on-one picture time with their favorite Princesses. A VIP Package is also available, which includes a salon experience with custom hair, makeup, a VIP Princess accessory and a free digital copy of their picture with the Princesses.

Online tickets are $39-$50 for general admission. VIP tickets are available online from $50-$109 are $50.00. Kids 12 months and younger do not require a ticket. Ticket prices increase at the door, so purchase in advance online and save!

Mom Tip: While there’s free valet, consider nearby parking so you don’t have to wait when you’re ready to leave!

To learn more about My Princess Moment, visit here. Get social with My Princess Moment on Facebook and Instagram with #MyPrincessMoment.

Norris Conference Centers at Sundance Square
304 Houston Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Cirque Italia – Ain’t Your Mama’s Circus

March 14, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Staying close to home this spring break? Cirque Italia has rolled into DFW and is ready to take your idea of circus to a new level.

Thanks to Cirque Italia for this opportunity to attend opening night and this sponsored post.

The days of the traveling circus with elephants and tigers is now one for the history books.

I remember when I was a kid, you’d spot the colored fliers around town and soon see all the trucks come to town. Then only a few days later you’d spot the red and white tent and know the circus was here! On your special night, you could smell the the aroma of buttery popcorn while crunching on peanut shells as you walked through the vinyl tent. Once you were under the big top you’d have you might see elephants, tigers and acts that you’d never seen – and then share the evening the next day with all your friends about what you’d seen.

Fast-forward to my children’s experience to the circus. While it doesn’t look much look like mine, after our experience, I can share that the circus is definitely alive and well.

However, it now includes laser lights, robots, and much more! Just in time for spring break Cirque Italia made it to the Midcities in Hurst at Northeast Mall.

Not knowing exactly what to expect, I was thrilled there was still a big cobalt blue and white striped tent to let us know we has arrived at Cirque Italia. There’s something about a “big top” that does take a normal parking lot to a whole new experience – well that and the buttery popcorn that met us as we entered the tent. We quickly took our spots as the lights went down and the show began.

From a vignette of Steam Punk tricks to a laser robot show, there was something to keep your eye moving throughout the event. However, it was the acrobatic shows incorporating water fountains and tricks high in the air that are the scene stealers.

If you’re looking for something different to do this spring break, this is definitely an option, but it’s only here for a little while before it moves on.

Get more information about Cirque Italia here.

Dallas Fort Worth isn’t just home to the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers…there are several other national teams including FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium. If you’re headed to a game, then here’s our First Timers Guide to a FC Dallas Game.

Here’s our First Timer’s Guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium

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Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7-11, but it shouldn’t end there. Join SONIC in making a bigger impact to help our teachers through Limeades for Learning. Plus help give directly to a teacher in need!

In today’s test-taking focused environment, we all have a part in making the grade. Help your kid do their best with 5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking.

5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking

Engage.

Encourage.

Nourish.

Recognize.

Support.

Spring Break just got a lot sweeter for your little princess! Make it a royal weekend with “My Princess Moment” in Fort Worth.

Staying close to home this spring break? Cirque Italia has rolled into DFW and is ready to take your idea of circus to a new level.

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