Autumn Rose Reo

10 Unique Date Night Ideas in DFW

February 11, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 39 Comments

Love is in the air with Valentine’s Day just around the corner. Whether you’re looking for something special this weekend or to plan for something soon, we have some unique date night ideas (and date day ideas, too) for you and your significant other in DFW.

Every couple falls into one of two categories – those who do stuff on Valentine’s Day and those that absolutely do not. And if you are lucky enough to have been together, you may need to spice it up with something a little different than the norm. So here are a few unique date night ideas to add to your list to keep your love life a little more interesting. (And make sure to to read to the bottom for some BIG surprises!)

Dinner That Goes Above Your Expectations

THE RANCH AT LAS COLINAS // website

Whether it’s a quick lunch date or a weekend outing with live music, you will find it at The Ranch. A steakhouse with all the amenities you expect from a high-scale restaurant, but without all the pomp and circumstance. While you’ll love all the Texas farm to fork selections you’ll find on the menu, it’s the last course that’s really going to make it a memorable meal experience. After your done eating, head outdoors to have the helicopter whisk you above DFW for a tour. With prices ranging from $35 per person – $300 per person depending on length of tour, you can make any weekend a high-flying experience. To schedule a tour, call 214.906.9800.

While the menu is always good, Friday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 14, The Ranch is offering a special à la Carte 3-Course Dinner Menu, available from 5-9 p.m., in addition to its regular menu with wine pairings. In addition, The Ranch will be open Sunday, Feb. 14, offering a special Valentine’s Day Brunch Buffet from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for $44.95. And don’t forget, there’s live music will be performing both Friday and Saturday night, as well as, during brunch on Sunday.

A Dinner That Goes Up, Up and Away and Over:

DELTA CHARLIE’S // website

If you’re really ready to go BIG, then Delta Charlie’s is your answer to a date night dinner experience like none other. You’ll have a 3-course private dining experience while flying over DFW for a high-flying night you’ll never forget. As you can expect, many of engagements have happened with a Delta Charlie’s date night.

Get Dirty:

CENTRAL MARKET COOKING CLASSES // website

My husband and I just enjoyed one of these fun events for our anniversary with the Texas Parks and Wildlife and German cuisine. Even if you already consider yourself a great cook, there’s something fun about all the stress of the menu and the cleanup is taken care of so you can concentrate on creating a great meal together and meeting others. There’s everything from kolaches, tamales, sushi, lobster, wine pairings and more (Bacon!) Prices vary but range from $67 and up.

Add a Little Mystery:

MYSTERY MURDER THEATRE // website

The Mystery Murder Theatre is a perfect event for those who are looking for a unique form of live entertainment that allows you to get involved, and enjoy a great 3 -course meal at the same time. Shows are fun for the whole family (PG-10 rating), and is also perfect for a date night.

See Some Stars:

HARKINS THEATRE // website

Yep, I can’t even tell you the last movie I’ve seen without my kids. While my husband and I have a long list of must-watch movies, most the time trying to get a sitter to watch the kids or the price of a sitter keeps up from heading to the Big Screen. Harkins’ exclusive in-lobby children’s PlayCenter offers a supervised, engaging environment where children ages 3 through 8 can play games, read books, enjoy toys, and of course, watch movies, just steps from Mom and Dad’s auditorium.

PlayCenter staff members are trained professionals who work exclusively in the PlayCenter. They are background checked and fingerprinted. At only $6 per child, it’s a deal. Walk-ups are welcome and reservations are recommended.

COYOTE THEATRE // website

Of course, a movie is always nice, but you actually don’t get to enjoy speaking with each other. Unless of course, you’re under the stars in your own car! Coyote Theatre is a great option for staying the car all cuddled up. And if you go on Wednesdays, you can get bottles of wine half off with Wine Down Wednesdays along with your $6 ticket per person admission. Get your tickets online in advance to make it even easier.

See THE stars:

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON PLANETARIUM // website

Bring your sweetheart to the Planetarium this Valentine’s Day weekend for our special Couples Only event, Romancing the Stars. This program takes a lighthearted look at the night sky and tells many stories of love and devotion that can be found there. Tickets are $15. Other days are also available for their regular showings throughout the weekend super cheap rates ranging from $4-6. Get the schedule online and make a reservation at 817.272.1183.

Shoot for the Stars:

ELM FORK SHOOTING SPORTS // website

“A 467-acre amusement park for sporting enthusiasts,” Elm Fork Shooting Sports is where to go if you are ready to target a good time. There are several different activities you can do at this huge outdoor arena in Dallas from shooting clays, shooting ranges, skeet fields, trap fields, 5 stand games, beginners courses, 25 yard Pistol bays, 50 & 100 yard Rifle ranges, reactive steel for pistol and much more! Best of all, it’s public, so you don’t have to have a membership or a reservation to get your turn! And there’s free coaching, specialty classes for women, rentals, and an opportunity to really get out there for a good time together. Fees range depending on the course. For more information, call 972.556.0103.

Game Time!

MAIN EVENT // website

Some couples are quite competitive (you remember Monica and Chandler’s awesome ping pong throwdown, right?) And sometimes it’s good to get it all out. You can do that and more at any of the 5 Main Event locations in DFW and one more on the way in Fort Worth (opening Feb. 18.) One of the ultimate destinations for a FUN date night, you can do it all with an “Eat.Bowl.Play” experience that combines bowling, video games, billiards, and laser tag with a chef-inspired menu and a full bar. Trying to keep it on the cheap? $5 Super Bowling from now until Feb. 25 is calling your name, Sundays, Tuesdays – Friday all day and Mondays from open- 4 pm.

Go Away:

TRAVEL TO GRANBURY //website

Have a few more hours to get away? You can really make a big weekend of it in Granbury, only an hour away, you can enjoy a lot of fun on the lake, around the square and much more including a tour of one of DFW’s favorite microbrewery, Revolver. Only held on Saturdays, a tour of the brewery includes tastings, a souvenir glass, live music and access to food trucks.

Looking for other fun things to do while you’re in town? Valentine’s weekend (6-10 p.m. on February 13 and 2-9 p.m. on February 14), get treated like a princess in the Cinderella coach or traditional horse-drawn carriage ride around the square, You can also enjoy the D’Vine Wine Valentine Dinner followed by a Granbury Ghosts and Legends tour and then stay at one the bed and breakfasts like the The Inn on Lake Granbury complete with Jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and large steam showers. And if you are off on Monday, stay to see handmade cheese made only from dairy cows from Sandy Creek farm in North Texas at Eagle Mountain Cheese. Can’t go Valentine’s Day weekend? You can spend a romantic weekend anytime in Granbury with this plan.

What’s the ideal date night for you?

7 Last-Minute DIY Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

February 10, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Don’t have the budget for something big or would you rather make something to show them what they mean to you? These last-minute DIY Valentine’s Day gift ideas aren’t just easy, but they’re really cheap, too!

Thanks to Half-Price Books for help with these great ideas.

7 Last-Minute DIY Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

1. Find and frame sheet music of a meaningful song.

Half Price Books has reasonably-priced music books where your favorite songs can be found.

2. Give the vinyl version of someone’s favorite singer, bad or album.

For less than $10, you can pick up a record frame that can be turned into keepsake art, worthy of the office or bedroom wall.

3. Find a book of poetry and place a bookmark, ribbon or special note between the pages of a favorite poem.

If poetry isn’t your thing, start with “I Carry Your Heart With Me” by E.E. Cummings. It will make even the coldest hearts melt.

4. Turn a basic novel into a keepsake by adding a special inscription on the inside cover.

For an extra-special gift, find a first edition of a book that’s meaningful to your Valentine.

5. Choose a cookbook and make your Valentine a meal using recipes from the book.

Inscribe the inside cover and give it to them to commemorate the event.

7. Go for old.

For your college student, look for vintage fraternity or sorority handbooks, books on college football teams or old books that focus on their area of study.

You can find more information about Half-Price Books and your closest location to you here.

Celebrating Chinese New Year with Your Kids

February 5, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 31 Comments

Chinese New Year begins February 8, 2016. Share this ancient tradition in celebrating a year of hard work and a prosperous new year by creating these fun and easy activities with the kids.

Considered the most important Chinese holiday, Chinese New Year is based on the Chinese lunar calendar, lasting around three weeks between January 21 to February 20. Based on a Chinese legend, Buddha requested all the animals to meet with him on on Chinese New Year. When 12 animals accepted the call, Buddha named a year after each of them, thus creating the Chinese zodiac: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig. This year, 2016, is considered the year of the monkey (as was 2004 and 1980), so the year and the people born during that same year are considered to possess certain traits.

While all of that may be much to explain to the kids, there are several easy ways to teach them key parts about Chinese New Year.

1.) Read it.

Share the legend of Chinese New Year including all the beauty of the “Spring festival,” dragon dances and more by sharing a story with authentic photos from China like this beautiful book from National Geographic Kids.

2.) Make It.

The Chinese create beautiful art in all shapes and sizes. From origami, fortune cookies, paper dragons, Chinese lanterns, and more – there are so many things you can create to recognize, appreciate and teach your kids about the Chinese culture and the Chinese New Year. Take a little time to learn a special craft together. Or you can do something a little easier like this kid-friendly “sushi,” made with lunch meat, cheese, and bread. This video shows you how!

3.) Eat It.

No time to make and do for holiday? No problem! P.F. Chang’s is celebrating Chinese New Year with a special celebration lasting the whole month beginning February 8.

Just like the ancient tradition of red envelopes, the eatery will be handing traditional Chinese red envelopes with free offers on trees around its restaurants. Five lucky winners will even open an envelope for free P.F. Chang’s for a year!

Also in the spirit of the holiday, you can also give to others with the special social promotion. Enjoy six signature items on its Chinese New Year menu and you share your wish for 2016 on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #PFChangswish, they’ll donate $1 (up to $100,000) to Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

The Long Life Noodles and Prawns ix full of flavor with spices and chiles.

P.F. Chang’s Chinese New Year menu features six signature menu that symbolically represent the luck of the new year, including:

Sichuan Chili Garlic Chicken
Hong Kong Style Sea Bass
Long Life Noodles & Prawns
Butternut Squash Dumplings
Mandarin Cake
Monkey Mule (a unique twist on the traditional Moscow Mule featuring Monkey Shoulder whisky and house-made ginger beer)

How are you planning to celebrate Chinese New Year?

Unique Umbrellas That Do More

January 31, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 37 Comments

Umbrellas may be made to keep your dry, but in this day of technology and style, the umbrella can go the extra mile. We’ve found the most unique umbrellas that do more and give you a real reason to sing in the rain.

As seen on Good Morning Texas

Bluetooth Umbrella // DAVEK

Hidden in the handle of this sleek umbrella is a tiny Bluetooth-based “proximity chip.”
This chip broadcasts a silent signal, read by your smartphone.
When the distance between the chip and your phone exceeds a certain distance—30 ft or so—the umbrella sends a reminder to your phone.
Battery life is between 1-3 years.
Get it: It’s only available online here, but this fall is set to be sold at high-end retailers.

Color Changing Umbrella // Walker

Color-changing umbrella is black with white raindrop design
When the umbrella has contact with water comes to life with lots of color
Returns to white when dry
Well-made umbrella design
Get it: The Write Selection in Dallas or online here

LED Light “Light Saber” Umbrella // ZHOL

Perfect for your “Star Wars” fan, this umbrella lights up at the push of button.
Press the button for several LED color choices.
Light is Turn the light on in the dark street so that the car drivers aware you. Effective to prevent accidents
Get it: Found this one online for less than $20!

Wine Bottle Umbrella // Vinrella

The best part of an umbrella? It keeps your dry? The worst part? When you fold it up indoors and it gets you all wet.
This unique “Wine Bottle” umbrella stores in the bottle when closed and includes a strap so it can be carried on the wrist, bag, etc.
Great for a wine lover, but a water bottle option gives a fitness buff a fun choice as well.
Get it: At gift shops like ‘Lil Shop on the Vine in Grapevine and online here.

Umbrellas aren’t the only rain gear; goulashes/rain boots aren’t just for keeping you dry, they are very fashionable as well. A look on Pinterest will show you how to plan a whole outfit around the look – even when it’s not raining!

{Hunter Tall Boots}

{Sperry Top-Sider Women’s Cormorant Core Rain Boot}

{Sperry Top-Sider Women’s Saltwater Rain Boot}

{Sperry Top-Side Women’s White Water Rain Boot}

YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

Four Must Haves to Automate Your Home

Top Restaurant School Fundraisers

January 26, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 12 Comments

Not a fan of fundraisers? Me neither. But there are some ways to raise money for your school without selling out your friends and family with these top 30 restaurant school fundraisers. Little work, little pressure and lots of return.

Chocolate. Magazines. Popcorn. Tamales. PJs.

Those are just a few of the things we’ve been asked to sell to our friends and family in the name of fundraising.

Don’t get me wrong – it’s not that I’m cheap. I am all for spending money in the name of education. Whether it’s materials, assistance, tools or even building space, I’m all for giving money to the school or the PTA to help give my children (and yours) everything they need to be successful.

However, I’m not good with direct sells. Hell, if I had been, I’d be collecting a big fat commission check. But I suck at the hard sell- that’s why I went into Public Relations instead of Sales/Advertising. I am all for drinking the Kool-Aid and telling you all about how good it tastes and you need to taste it too. But I’m not so good about pouring you a glass, putting it up to your lips and asking you to gulp it down because I said so.

Okay, too many references to Kool-Aid, but hopefully I made a point…I don’t to sell stuff to others especially if they ain’t thirsty.

So when it comes to fundraisers at schools, I feel like it’s homework for me. I also feel like it’s some kind of competition to show my allegiance to the school and how good of a parent I am. Basically, the more I sell, the more I love my school and my kid.

But it honestly couldn’t be further from the facts. I love my kiddos so much that I work my butt off to make money so I can afford for them to have the opportunities that I didn’t have growing up. So please don’t ask me to add to my everlong list of things I don’t get done on a daily basis to raise money by selling chocolate bars.

Just ask me for a check. It’s that easy.

And if it’s not, then going out for hamburgers or tacos is.

That’s right. Several of your favorite eateries host school fundraisers. While each one is a little different, basically they give you everything you need to share with others “you know you need to eat dinner, so when you come tonight our school will get the benefit.”

So to make it really easy, here’s the list of restaurant fundraisers. While you aren’t going to bank a billion, you will be able to be eat a burger and help a school at the same time.

And don’t worry, there’s no Kool-Aid involved.

Restaurant School Fundraisers

Applebee’s
Arby’s
Buca di Beppo
California Pizza Kitchen
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Cheesecake Factory
Chick-Fil-A
Chili’s
Chipotle
Fuddrucker’s
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop (contact your location for details)
IHOP
Jamba Juice
Logan’s Roadhouse
(Marble Slab) MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream and Treatery
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
Outback Steakhouse
Panda Express
Panera Bread
Pizza Hut
Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Ruby Tuesday
Sonic Drive-In
Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes
Subway
TGI Friday’s
Taco Bueno
Taco Cabana
Wendy’s
Zoe’s Kitchen
And one more: Whataburger!

Do you have any favorite restaurant fundraisers?

Pencils vs. iPads: Why Teaching Handwriting Is STILL Important

January 22, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 25 Comments

Computers may change how we communicate, but did you know schools aren’t teaching handwriting after first grade? Here’s why we aren’t just making them dependent on devices, but also making them dumber adults.

Reading, handwriting, writing, arithmetic – the three things that children are supposed to learn at school.

But did you know that 75% of American students, grades 4 – 12 are writing below grade level?

Considering I have a journalism degree, loves stationery, and values handwritten notes, I have a lot of problems with the fact that the Common Core curriculum only puts emphasis on teaching handwriting in the Kindergarten and first-grade levels.

HUH? Really?

Is regrouping more important that writing your name? I guess so according to the Core.

So what are we, as parents, going to do about this little problem?

Despite how technology-driven our society becomes, writing is still a fundamental skill that everyone should possess. And that is why National Handwriting Day was created in 1977 – to remind children (and parents) of the importance of handwriting and how penmanship shaped our history.

I’m sure the idea of a whole day dedicated to handwriting probably seems antiquated when you’re probably reading this post on your phone or tablet. However research has shown that there are multiple cognitive and emotional benefits that go far beyond the classroom.

For one, handwriting makes us smarter. Writing by hand benefits cognitive development, motor skills and can lead to improved writing skills and comprehension. University of Washington Pyschologist Virginia Berninger conducted a study on school-aged children and found that handwriting, both priting and cursive, and typing on a keyboard activated different brain patterns. Studies also showed kids who wrote by hand remembered more and generated more ideas than those typing.

Seeing a pattern in all of this?

Beyond cognitive benefits, handwriting allows children, and people for that matter to express themselves. Once upon a time, before digital devices and abbreviated responses ruled the world, the written word was the only way for people to document the daily happenings (i.e. history, literature and all that stuff that we see at the museums.)

So maybe your kid won’t be the next Shakespeare, but everyone needs to leave their individual mark. Can’t do that with iPad. Just with a handwritten note.

Also, view: 20 Quotes About The Power Of Writing

But if your little kiddos are not as excited about writing as they are about their iPad time, here are a few ways to convince them as suggested by The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association.

Teach them about the importance written documents in history. These simple documents have changed the world, even though they weren’t written 140 characters.
Read a book. It may not be writing, but it shows the appreciation of writing and J.K. Rowling would appreciate that.
Practice 15 minutes of handwriting each day. Like everything, practice makes perfect. We can’t expect those few hours at school to be sufficient.
Start a diary or journal. Keeping a diary of their innermost thoughts is actually a great way for kids to reduce stress.
Write a story or make a card. You can finally use that 72 count of crayons, Grandma will be a happy person and you’ll have lots of fridge décor. Sounds like a win to me.

These are all simple things you could once a week, if not a few times. Heck, the 15 minutes of handwriting practice could be spent writing a story.

Now, I know…”at the rate our world is moving and how technology is evolving, handwriting may become obsolete,” much like Blackberry and Treos (remember those?)

But communication since the beginning of time didn’t include anything with an apple on it.

In the wise words of Willie (Nelson that is): “I like myself better when I’m writing regularly.”

Helpful tools to teach handwriting at home (affiliate):

Top 10 Healthiest Restaurants for Kids

January 20, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

Going out to eat with the kids isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to watch what they are putting in their bodies. Here is a quick list to the Top 10 healthiest restaurants for kids (and hopefully for you, too!) All of these also have gluten-free options so make sure to ask your server!

Dining out is sometimes for fun, sometimes out of necessity. Unfortunately for me, it’s normally, out of the fact that I didn’t listen to any of my own advice to plan in advance or cook something in the slow cooker. Mostly it’s just out of my total disdain for dishes.

However, when you have kids, it takes on a whole new platter of concerns including behavior, budget and belly (well what they are putting in it them that is.)

Zoe’s Kitchen, locations in 11 states
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Zoe’s Kitchen. And not because it’s healthy, but because it’s fresh…and so good. While there is a kids’ menu available that includes grilled chicken fingers, cheese quesadilla and fruit, it’s the fact that my kids prefer to just eat off the menu. And instead of my go-to rotisserie chicken, I can make one call for a family meal complete with chicken, steak and veggie kabobs, 2 sides (and believe me I could subsist on the white beans and pasta salad alone), salad, and hummus with pita. With gluten, vegan and several under 500-calorie options, Zoe’s gives you much more than the same ole, same ole.

El Fenix, 22 locations
A Dallas institution, El Fenix is a family concept that has been sharing their family favorite recipes since 1911 and has been going strong ever since.

Late last year, El Fenix stepped up to the table to offer not just your favorite Tex-Mex options, but healthy ones for your kids! Developed by a local high school culinary student in partnership with Medical City Children’s Hospital in Dallas, El Fenix’s Kids Fit Menu allows kids to build their own meals by choosing 2 veggies and fruits from an array of delicious, low-fat/calorie entrées and sides, along with a glass of apple juice. The kids won’t feel like they’re missing out with these picks especially the sweet nachoes with apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon, raisins and a little whip cream.

And best of all (for your budget), you can try the new El Fenix Kids Fit Menu (kids 12 and under) now until Feb. 7 for just $1.99 instead of the normal $4.99 when you use this coupon.

Vitality Bowls, 4 states with 20+ locations
While this new hot spot only has one Texas location, the West Coast has long embraced this uber-healthy joint that doesn’t just feed your hunger, but gives you body the things it needs to work at its best. Vitality Bowls® superfood café is looking to revolutionize the new idea of its Açaí Bowls®. Made from a thick blend of the Amazon’s antioxidant-rich açaí berry, the bowls are choc full of fruits, veggies, granola, and nuts for every palate. But the menu also includes smoothies, juices, wraps/paninis and salads served all day. While the idea sounds good to pile a lot of healthy things in one bowl, I wondered if the kids would dig in.

Much to my doubts, my daughter who is often the hardest to convince, said it was tasty and pretty, too. Just remember the bowl is cold, so this ain’t an oatmeal alternative. This is different than what you’ve had before, but change is good. And this change is real good for both of you. Plus they serve a chocolate covered banana too, so there’s always room for chocolate – as long as there’s fruit, too 🙂

Looking for a healthy option for unique food that can be on your 2016 Resolution List, the kids are going to like and to-go? Vitality Bowls, a local cafe that prides itself on serving the most creative superfoods including bowls, paninis, salads and smoothies. Using real good, feel good foods like açaí and goji berries, bee pollen, flax seed, and other fruits, your bowl isn’t just food but fuel to make you healthier inside and out. A look into this new offering in Irving/Las Colinas is #coming soon to the blog. #ontheblogsoon #healthy #mamachallenge #VitalityBowls #NewYou #healthyeats #VisitIrving #DallasFoodNerd #acai #goji #flax

A photo posted by MamaChallenge.com | Autumn Reo (@autumnreo) on Jan 6, 2016 at 7:50pm PST

Jamba Juice, 26 states with 800 locations
It’s easy to want to roll into happy hour after school to get the kids a little something before dinner along with a 44 oz. slushie. You might be getting it half off, but that starts to mount up – and I’m not just talking about your pocket book. Consider what could happen if you took all the veggies and fruits we all could use more of and put it in a cup with a straw…happy and healthier kids. Sure, you can make some poor decisions at a smoothie bar, but the kind folks at Jamba Juice can lead you into the right direction for exactly what you want and need. Asking to lighten it up (halving the calorie count) and ordering the almond-milk smoothies can give your kids the sweet kick they want without all the sugar, grease or sodium found in many fast-casual eateries. And Tuesdays after 3 kids can get a free smoothie when you order one. SCORE!

Chick-Fil-A, 1850 locations
Oh, yes, one of our favorites! Between the cows, Mom Valet and diet lemonade, we’ll be lifetime friends with this family-focused establishment. While Chick-Fil-A is home to the beloved fried chicken sandwich (among the waffle fries, chicken minis, etc.), they are making a huge effort to give parents options for their kids when it comes to healthier eating. Launched last year, the grilled chicken nuggets kids’ meal is full of protein, low in fat and calories. And if mom and dad are looking to cut their calories, too, a grilled chicken sandwich or grilled nuggets with the new kale salad can rock your world and not your waistline.

Photo: CFA Facebook

Pei Wei, 200 locations
Pei-Wei makes us happy in so many ways. From knowing who we are and what our order is when they pick up the phone to giving us a freebie with My Wei Rewards, when we need a little Asian flavor in our life, it’s our way to go Pei Wei (cute, right?) While you can go big with a big bowl of noodles, go with the Lighten Up menu, choose smaller plates to keep your portions in check or ask them to “Stock Velvet” your meal. Basically, the protein is steamed in broth instead of stir-fried in oil. It works best for chicken, shrimp and tofu, but no beef unless you like rubber. And of course, with the kids’ meal, you can add or take out what you need to make a meal your kid will actually eat and ask for again.

Subway, 25,000+ locations in the U.S.
For some reason, when restaurants go healthy, they also decide to take out one of the biggest things that kids love…the toys. While secretly I’ll be throwing it away when they aren’t looking, teaching the value of healthy eating is higher on my list. And it works. Thankfully, Subway has been able to combine the two by offering fun lunchbox options with their kids’ meal. Try selling a sandwich, glass of milk and yogurt for dinner at home and you’ll mostly be met with moans and groans. Tell your kids that you’re heading to get your Star Wars dinner with a mini-light saber (a recent offering), your kids will call you Yoda.

From Subway.com

Applebee’s, 2000 locations
Applebee’s has long-been heralded as many things, but the destination for healthy kids’ meals wasn’t one of them. Until now. Working with the KidsWell program, the neighborhood grill offers a two-tiered menu with entrée options for older kids with bigger appetites and younger kids with smaller appetites. Options include chicken, steak and pasta as well as 11 total side choices like all-natural GoGo squeeZ Applesauce (double whoo-hoo from us) and steamed broccoli, apple slices, all-natural yogurt, all-natural yogurt and strawberries, white rice, salads and carrots or celery with ranch dressing (a little fat isn’t always bad.)

Red Lobster, 700+ locations
Fond memories of garlic cheddar biscuits and strong drinks make up a lot of my college memories, but like me, Red Lobster also now has a little more responsible side with healthier options for the whole family. Red Lobster gives kids just as many fresh seafood options as the “big kids” with their Lighthouse Menu. Healthy options include Garlic-Grilled Shrimp with just 60 calories and 1 gram of fat, Broil/ed Fish and the Popcorn Shrimp for 140 calories each. And there’s always snow crab legs! All of the kids’ meals come with 1% milk and the choice of orange wedges or broccoli. Red Lobster even provides the small ones with some fun, colorful drink options like a sunset strawberry smoothie or a cherry wave slushy. And no one will ever know that mama’s drink has a little bit of extra love in it.

Joe’s Crab Shack

The nice shark from Finding Nemo was wrong; fish can be friends and food. Joe’s has an entire menu dedicated to gluten-free entrees from steampots to buckets of crab. And if you order crab, that means fun plastic bibs are coming your table’s way. The kids will rejoice. Steampots, shrimps, and buckets are the perfect, light dinner – full of protein and easy on the belly. For the kids’ menu, you can find the usual suspects – mac & cheese, chicken dippers, fish fries, pizza, mini burgers and fish sticks – not the healthiest of options, but they also offer grilled shrimp as a “Kids Live Well” alternative. Make sure you check your local Joe’s for daily specials. Some locations have a special day where kids can eat for free!

Where is your favorite healthy go-to spot?

Best Spaghetti and Meatballs EVER

January 18, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 23 Comments

You can never go wrong with spaghetti and meatballs. A timeless dish, the perfect plate of spaghetti and meatballs doesn’t have to take hours to make, just a great sauce and this recipe for the baked meatballs (which can be made gluten-free, too!)

We are serious spaghetti eaters. Like at least three times a week. It’s quick, it’s easy, and everyone is happy with the results (except that one time I accidentally switched out a little salt and pepper for sugar and cinnamon (yep, it wasn’t good.)

In the past we would have spent hours on the meatballs trying to get them carmelized to the point of perfection – crunchy and juicy in the pan. We put a lot of love in making the meatballs, but it took a lot of time and a toll of my dishwashing with the pans, bowls and to be honest, I didn’t even want to eat them after I was done preparing them. I was already too tired to eat (and that says a lot.)

Then we learned a big short cut. Like HUGE.

Baking them using a muffin pan changed everything. From getting them all to be the same size (so they cooked evenly), to cooking them with less mess, and then of course, making them healthier, baking your meatballs will change your life.

But that’s not all.

Want to improve the taste of your meatballs without adding tons of filler and other stuff? Mix your meats.

For us we enjoy a mix of ground turkey, ground Italian sausage and ground beef. Most the time we use the leaner side of things in making our meatballs, but make sure to add a little fat either to the mix or to the pan (using cooking spray) to make sure the meatballs aren’t too dry or stick to the pan.

Also, because of our dietary needs, we use gluten-free breadcrumbs, but you can always opt to use ground oatmeal (quick oats with a course ground in your blender) to make a really tasty (and healthier) meatball. (I also use this trick for meatloaf!)

That’s all.

Now all you need is your favorite Ragu and some pasta to complete the meal.

After 30 minutes, you have the best (and easiest) spaghetti and meatballs! Full of all the good stuff that even Assunta Cantisano, the mama that created the family Ragu recipe the company started with all the way in 1937.

Best Baked Meatballs

Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 20
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 1x

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Ingredients

Scale

1/2 lb. ground turkey
1/2 lb. lean ground beef
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 tsp. parsley
1 1/2 tsp. basil
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
1/2 c. bread crumbs (gluten free) or 1/2 c.ground quick oats oatmeal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 F degrees.
Spray muffin pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
Combine meats together in a bowl. Add all the ingredients 1/4 cup (1/2 of the breadcrumbs). Set aside breadcrumbs.
Mix all the ingredients together and with your hands create small balls to fit inside mini muffin pan.
Before placing meatballs into pan, roll each one lightly in breadcrumbs. (Can sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if you prefer, but the breadcrumbs give the meatball that crunchy, but juicy bite.)
Then place each meatball into mini muffin pan.
Cook in the oven for 20 minutes until golden.
Serve with pasta sauce (we love Ragu) and your favorite spaghetti noodles (we use gluten free!)

Notes

Leftover meatballs? Put them in freezer bag and be ready for quick and easy spaghetti and meatballs anytime!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 396
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 1080
Fat: 23
Saturated Fat: 9
Unsaturated Fat: 11
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 12
Protein: 35
Cholesterol: 154

With no artificial flavors or high fructose syrup, you can feel just as good about the sauce as you do the meatballs you just made for your family. And without all the work…all thanks to her “secret” Ragu recipe and the mamachallenge “secret” to meatballs.

What’s your secret to the best spaghetti and meatballs?

Pie Five Helps Families Win the Dinner War

January 17, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

On those busy days when it feels like I have a hundred items on my to-lists and not enough hours in the day, dinner often sneaks up on me. As much as I want to just swing through a local drive-thru after I pick up the kids from school, I try my best to choose healthier options, even if those meals don’t have accompanying toys. For those near meltdown moments, Pie Five is my go-to spot. My kids love the pie, and I get healthy ingredients in their bellies. Especially when you have gluten-free kiddos to contend with…it’s my saving grace.

Everyone wins.

If you’re one of those people who likes something new each time you visit a restaurant, Pie Five will become your new favorite destination. There are 17 locations in the DFW metroplex and they just added one in Euless for the mid-cities peeps.

For me, the fun thing about Pie Five is that you have choices….lots of choices. You can trust the pie gods and choose one of the pre-made pizzas like Chicken Carbonara or Pesto Chicken Alfredo, or you can become a pie god and create a pie yourself. Pie Five has more than 28 fresh toppings, 7 savory sauces and 4 made-from-scratch crusts making your pie possibilities are endless. And if you have a food allergy, they serve a gluten-free crusts as well. Pies bake in 145 seconds in a custom-designed state-of-the-art oven.

Pizzas aren’t the only thing you can order at Pie Five. If you’re like me and trying to watch those pesky carbs, than a fresh salad is available too. Just like their pizza, you can order a signature bowl of green or make a salad with your favorite ingredients. And if you’re feeling a little wild, you can order a side salad….served in their famous pizza crust bowl. Salad in a big bowl of dough is my kind of dinner.

And if you have a salad for dinner, than you have plenty of calories left for dessert like a decadent home-baked brownie or a cookie. I always save room for cookies or brown or both. And remember, when they kids make it, they eat it. And there’s no clean up for you.

Yep, everyone wins.

Check out their Pie Five website for their complete menu and list of locations near your home.

Touchdown with Slow Cooker Shrimp Bisque

January 15, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 25 Comments

Be the MVP of your big game party with this easy recipe for Slow Cooker Shrimp Bisque. Give it the kick that will have them coming back for more with El Yucateco hot sauce!

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #KingOfFlavor #CollectiveBias

The best part of any game, either if you’re tailgating or sitting front row in your living room, is the party! Whether you go all out or just keep it to the couch, you can really score with a recipe like this Slow Cooker Shrimp Bisque that lets your play with the team instead sit on the sidelines! What gives this Cajun favorite its really amazing flavor is El Yucateco.

Bisque has always been one of my favorites. Anytime I can find it on the menu, it’s a must have to order and in my time I’ve enjoyed different recipes made in several different ways (A LOT!) However, with the perfect mix of creamy and smooth with bits of shrimp and the full flavor delivered by El Yucateco, each spoonful of this bisque gives you just what you want and still leaves you wanting more.

With other hot sauces one of the main ingredients is vinegar, but with El Yucateco the pepper is definitely #1! It’s also really versatile for everything from meats to margaritas, especially when there are different levels of heat and pepper blends available at Walmart!

If you really like to give it some heat with a smokey flavor without the sweetness of chipotle, try the El Yucateco Black Label Reserve Hot Sauce!

Just like NOLA, there’s a party in every bite of this Slow Cooker Shrimp Bisque!

And since you aren’t spending time cooking for your big game party, you can actually add a little fun to your Mardi Gras party as easy as a few beads, masks and even just a little zydeco music will get everyone moving! If you are tailgating or hosting your shindig outdoors, El Yucateco has you covered with a whole line of fun gear in the El Yucateco Store where you’ll find some really cool gear from board shorts for the summer, hoodies for the winter and many shirts for your any kind of party you’re going to!

TOUCHDOWN!

So ready to see how easy it is to get your party started?

Slow Cooker Shrimp Bisque

Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com

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