Autumn Rose Reo

Glamping, Texas Style

November 3, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 22 Comments

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

I’m not much of a camping kinda girl.

But glamping (i.e. glamorous camping) – that’s more my style.

I can enjoy Mother Nature much more when there’s I’m biting into a ooey-gooey s’more wrapped up in a soft, cashmere blanket in my own Pinterest-perfect oasis. For me that’s the only way to camp.

So for this glamping trip, we headed to Walmart to stock up on the essentials for our luxury trip to the outdoors. A go-to resource for camping, I found both the must-haves for camping as well as the beautiful “Texas” touches to really upgrade our trip the wild (or in this case a spot not too far from home, but just far enough to enjoy the stars).

Comfort and cute is the name of the game for glamping, so I grabbed a few items to really make it homey like LED battery candles, lanterns (on sale), a few flower arrangements (you can’t always be sure what you’ll find in the wild), a warm, lush white down-like comforter, and tons of pillows. A few necessities haves included large clear jars with a little burlap for giving it that rustic, shabby-chic look, an easy-to-put-up tent, a table and chairs, and of course, an air mattress is a must-have to have you waking up like a princess the next day.

My favorite find was this no-setup picnic table all-in-one that I found on Walmart.com and using their new unlimited shipping feature, Shipping Pass, was able to get it delivered to my door in just three days. (I’m a HUGE FAN of this new option and of course, the Walmart Site-to-Store option makes finding everything you need for glamping possible!)

Since the menu plays a huge part of creating the ideal glamping experience. I mean what’s the point of all the work of putting up a tent and all the beautiful details, if you don’t have something to look forward?

But the menu doesn’t need to be hard to make or take too long to have ready either.

Just like glamping, Freschetta® is about the details with a homemade taste using only premium ingredients and a fresh-baked crust that is made like fresh baked bread, so it’s like you made your own, but with no work and only 15-20 minutes over the grill! (And there’s a gluten-free and cheese only version, too to fit all your campers needs!) That’s why Freschetta® Brick Oven Pizza is a great go-to for camping; you can make it over the grill for the ideal meal that’ll have you finishing every bite especially with my Roasted Garlic Butter Sauce! And no camping or glamping experience is complete without s’mores, but we added our own unique twist with S’mores Donuts using Honey Maid Graham Crackers, Hershey’s Chocolate, and Kraft Marshmallows.

Setting the Scene

As the backdrop for our outdoor escape, I found this beautiful area surrounded by trees for a little privacy and super shade. A few fallen tree trunks also made for some additional seating especially to enjoy the nearby sound of the recently filled running stream just steps from the glamp site.

Designing the whole space only took 30 minutes! Starting with tent, I added a large outdoor patio rug to keep for keeping our “home away from home” also as clean as possible. Next using a pallet I had in the garage for the finishing piece, a laid up a headboard (you can normally find these at a large store or somewhere there is a lot of shipping, just ask if they’ll let you have one.) Then it was time for the air mattress, cozy comforter and a little mood lighting!

Lighting is key for making it the beautiful and comfortable space you’re little for when glamping. Using a bungee cord and this LED battery operated lantern (for just around $10), I created a bedroom chandelier for a little just-the-right lighting once the sun goes down. And a few LED battery operated candles (made of real wax) give the space ambiance without the fear of catching fire or burning out!

Pillows add all the punch for making a glamping space your creative own! While I was able to find adorable cow print pillows at Walmart, you can design your own, with any throw pillow and two handkerchiefs (or two large square pieces of material.) I just tied them at the corners and voilà, new pillows!

My treasure find at Walmart.com was this amazing pine wood rocking chair (on big sale) to really set the scene for this outdoor retreat. Paired with an outdoor side table and a few “candles,” this natural wood rocker is ideal for staying up for hours talking, reading a book, pondering life, or just enjoying sipping coffee the next morning after the first break of day after a super slumber.

For me, pretty doesn’t have to be complicated, so a little burlap made for an easy table runner, a few tall glass jars with candles, and a little twine for that detailed touch. I also made these bouquet of flowers by with several bunched up recycled coffee filters and inserting the ends into straws to use as the centerpiece for our dining decor.

Now that we finished the fab, it’s on to the food!

No need to make glamping hard, make sure to bring a cutting board and have either your own grill/fire pit available for the easiest and safest way of cooking up a mouthwatering meal that doesn’t have to take hours to create! First off, start your fire! Using self-starting charcoal (the briquettes already have lighter fluid on them), you can rock a fire ready to cook in just around 10 minutes using the grid-pattern technique. Lay out the charcoal one-by-one in a grid covering the whole grate/floor of your cooking device and then light the four briquettes at each corner with a large lighter! In seconds, you’ll have a fire roaring and be ready to go.

While Freschetta® Brick Oven Pizza is already good, we took it first-class by adding a roasted garlic butter sauce (with only two ingredients) for the golden touch! Garlic and butter always make everything better and this little trick can be done anytime (including in your oven at home) to make your meal really wow!

Roasted Garlic Butter Sauce

Taking a bulb of garlic, on the cutting board slice the stem just about 1/2 inch to expose the cloves. Place the garlic in the middle of double foil and making a little bowl around the bottom so you can add oil (olive or vegetable will work) directly to the garlic (about 2-3 tablespoons). Then close the garlic with the remaining foil ends to create a little “garlic” flower and add it directly to the fire source (I actually laid mine in the coals.)

Making Pizza on the Grill

While the garlic cooks in the fire, it’s a perfect time to get started on the pizza! To make the best grilled pizza over an open flame, all you’ll need is two pieces of foil to lay on the grate and Freschetta® Brick Oven Pizza. Remove everything from the pizza and place it frozen right over the foil. Now all you have to do is wait 15-20 minutes until the crust is browned and the cheese is melted!

While the pizza is cooling for a few minutes, also take out the garlic and allow it to cool slightly. Open the foil and you’ll find that the garlic smells like heaven and has “melted” into a paste-like creamy consistency! Using a towel or something to keep your hands from the heat, you’ll squeeze the garlic into a small bowl (about two tablespoons) along with the butter (about 3-4 tablespoons) and mix!

And that’s it for the sauce!

Now just dip your cut slices of pizza into the sauce to enjoy every bite from start to finish!

S’mores Donuts

Now you can’t forget the s’mores when you go camping or glamping – it’s like a rule! But sometimes you gotta change up the rules a little bit! So whether you eat these S’mores Donuts for breakfast or dessert, they’re going to knock your socks off with the right amount of marshmallow and chocolate inside the donut (made from canned biscuits) and of course, the crunch of the Honey Maid Graham Cracker for the finishing touch.

While making these little babies takes no time at all, the trick is getting the oil hot enough to “fry” the biscuits. I recommend putting your pot or dutch oven (another must for camping) with two-inches of vegetable oil over the fire while you’re cooking other items, so it’s ready when you are! You’ll know it’s the right temperate by testing it first by adding a small part of a biscuit to the oil to make sure it bubbles.

Now add one large marshmallow (I don’t recommend the jumbos though) and one small chocolate (Hershey’s miniatures are just the right size) and sandwich them between two raw biscuits, pinching the sides until it’s closed. Next add the biscuit to the oil until it’s golden (it won’t but just a few seconds depending on the temperature of the oil.) Using tongs, transfer the biscuit to a plate and quickly add add another chocolate (or drizzle just a little melted chocolate) and finish with graham cracker crumbs!

Now it’s ready to sink your teeth into! Like any s’more this donut can be a little messy, but it actually can last longer than traditional s’mores so you can munch on them into the night. However, they are best served warmed and eaten with your fingers for all the fun!

Now doesn’t this just say home sweet home?!? Little cleanup, little work and lots of good food with a fabulous place to call home – if only for a few hours!

Check out other ways to glamp and get your s’mores on with Freschetta and Honey Maid!

What’s your best camping/glamping tip?

Help Jenga Top the Toy Hall of Fame

November 1, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 21 Comments

Jenga, the ultimate childhood game of close calls and epic falls.

The game of strategy where small fingers and a little flexibility makes you the victor. And more recently, the game that some bars in Dallas have decided to upgrade to giant wooden pieces making the falls even that more epic. You haven’t lived until you’ve won a life-size game of Jenga.

And now the childhood game is trying to join the big leagues. Yep. After more than 30 years, Jenga is nominated to be the 2015 Toy and Game of the year for the National Toy Hall of Fame, beating out other games like Battleship, Ninja Turtles and even those precious American Girl Dolls.

Right now, Jenga is in the top 3, but if it wins by popular vote, the game will be inducted in the Hall of Fame, joining other timeless games like Etch A Sketch, the Hula Hoop, Alphabet Blocks and one of my personal favorites, Play Doh!

Random bit of knowledge you can share during your next awkward conversation….Englishwoman Leslie Scott expanded on the wooden block from her childhood in Africa, gave her game a catchy name and made everyone a fan of the towering toppling blocks. And the word Jenga comes from the Swahili verb that means “to build.”

Like the game itself, there are no tangible prizes if Jenga enters the Hall of Fame, but the bragging rights are enough.

So if you’re ever enjoyed a game (or three) of Jenga with friends or family or let a scream of excitement as the tower crashed to the ground after your opponents move, cast your vote for this family-friendly, timeless toy! Voting ends on Nov. 4.

You can vote here once a day, every day.

Brunch & Bust a Move with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

October 30, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

It’s (almost) the most wonderful time of the year. The holidays are quickly approaching, and I try to make sure I enjoy the joy and fun this time of year brings as well.

Kick off your holiday season with America’s Sweethearts! The Gaylord Texan is hosting a special Dallas Cowboys Dance & Cheer Brunch on Nov. 22, 2015 and De. 13, 2015 in the Yellow Rose Ballroom from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Eight of the fabulous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and R&B Dancers will be on-hand at the brunch to meet their fans, take photos and sign autographs. And your little future cheerleaders (or yourself #nojudgement) will have opportunity to learn some moves from the cheerleaders and dancers themselves. Well then shake your tail feather!

Plus, all attendees will be able to enjoy a lavish family brunch complete with scrambled eggs and bacon, breakfast tacos, smoke cheddar grits, maple grain ham, red eye gravy, brioche French toast, yogurt parfaits and a whole bunch of pastries and desserts. Hello, brunch! Is your mouth watering or is it just me?

So how much does all of this cost? Adults can experience this event for $39.99, kids (4-12) for $19.99 and kids 3 and under get in for FREE! You can buy your tickets at here. And while you’re out there, why not take the opportunity to enjoy all of the Lone Star Christmas festivities!

You can check out the full list of activities here.

Why You Need the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan

October 29, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 25 Comments

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Blogging and social media has been part of my everyday for more than seven years now.

During that time I’ve learned volumes; however, mostly I’ve learned that I have so much more to learn about blogging, SEO and photography.

While I may have a degree in Journalism, “the other stuff” is what takes you to the next level and for more than just your family circle to visit your blog.

You need beautiful photography to accompany your storytelling. Let’s be honest, it’s not the 3-5 hours I spent working on that story that gets you to read it, it’s JUST THE picture that makes you stop to read it, pin it to your board, or share it with your friends that makes the difference.

Before

So it’s time for me to up my game so you want to keep reading and to create the pictures that say 1,000 words (and maybe make you a $1,000 or more.)

When it comes to photography, it’s an art and I’m definitely continuing to learn what it takes to click a beautiful shot. But for most of us, the time and work it takes to get the “right” shot isn’t always possible. That’s where food styling and some good editing software make your picture go from whatever to wow.

After Adobe Creative Cloud

This is where the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan is a game changer. Photoshop and Lightroom have been the standard for photographers, but unfortunately, the investment for these tools weren’t always available for everyone – until now.

Now take your best shot and then you can make it even better with the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan. Unlike traditional software, with your 1-year subscription for $119.99, you aren’t just installing your programs on one computer, but since it’s in the cloud you can access it on any device, any time, anywhere.

Before

From everyday edits like cropping a shot to total transformations, the Creative Cloud plan lets you retouch and manipulate images in any way imaginable. You also continue to edit, organize and share your shots on your iPad, iPhone or Android device. Need to make a change? Once you do, your edit is updated everywhere with Adobe CreativeSync technology.

After Adobe Creative Cloud

One of my favorite parts about the Creative Cloud plan is your ability to use the Adobe Slate mobile app to create visual stories, animated videos and the Adobe Voice mobile app to add your own voice to tell your story. And there’s some much more you can get with Adobe Cloud.

At the rate of $119 you can step up your blogging game and make your photos worth so much more. Get your prepaid membership to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan at Best Buy.

Oooh and Ahh with Sci-Tech’s Eyellusions Exhibit

October 26, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 Comments

Have you ever seen a magic trick or one of those weird shows at the local state fair, squinted a smidge and thought to yourself “now how did they do that?”

Most magicians and illusionist have admitted that the eyes can be tricked. Manipulation can be sneaky. If you don’t believe me, consider this – was the dress white and gold or blue and black?

Sci-Tech Discover Center in Frisco is revealing the neuroscience behind mind-bending illusions with the Eyellusions exhibit, now until Jan. 4, 2016. Get ready to to question what you see and what you think as the exhibit shows us the ambiguous phenomena that have left us thinking “huh?” throughout time.

Eyellusions features 20 life-changing installations including:

The Incredible Zoetrope: 8 feet wide pre-film animation device where 12 wooden horse sculptures appear to be running.

The Alice in Wonderland Ames room: Ames room where guests can enter and look big or small depending on their position in the room. The whole display is inspired by the revelations in David Day’s Decoding Wonderland book.

Time Machine: Using a pepper’s ghost effect, guests enter a “time machine” and seem to disappear before the audience.

Movie Theater: Vintage-looking theater with a stage for magicians to preform shows. When a live performance is not scheduled, a short film called “Rescue on Mars” will be playing. It will emulate old cinema techniques and show viewers just how simple these practical effects can be recreated at home.

The Dress: A Victorian version of the infamous black and blue (or white and gold) dress that “broke the internet” will be displayed. Guest will be able to play with the light intensity and discover what makes it change color.

The exhibit will debut in North Texas, so if you have the ability to make it to the Lone Star State, try not to run to Facebook and ruin it for others before they can see it. We want to see the white/gold and blue/black dress for ourselves. And if you’re ever in DFW, check out the Sci-Tech Discovery Center for fun throughout the year!

Eyellusions at Sci-Tech Discovery Center
Sept. 26, 2015 – Jan. 4, 2016
8004 North Dallas Parkway
Frisco, TX 75034
General Admission, Ages 3-64: $8/Under 3 is free.
website

3 Things You Use Every Day That May be Causing You More Harm Than Good

October 22, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 18 Comments

When you get up in the morning or get ready for bed at night, how many products do you use?

If you’re like me, there’s probably around 10 you use as part of your daily routine. And that doesn’t event begin to include makeup.

The average woman is exposed to 168 chemicals before she leaves her home each morning.

Have you ever read the back of your products to ask what’s in them? I mean not just that special ingredient that promises your skin will look 10 years younger or will make your hair look like Eva Mendes. I mean just read through the whole label.

If you can tell me what more than 3-5 of those things listed are besides water/aqua, then feel free to stop reading and say, of course I know exactly what those names are and how to pronounce them.

But if you’re like the rest of the general public, not only can you not say them, you don’t have a clue what the listed ingredients are anyways.

Europe bans more than 1300 harmful chemicals from personal care products.

The U.S. bans 11.

When I was younger, I didn’t really care about that stuff. I mean if they put it in there, it’s ok for me, right?

But now as a mom, I’ve learned to not just ask the question, but research, demand for answers, and make the right decisions for me and my family.

And unfortunately, that’s meant looking at a lot of things in my cabinets, drawers, makeup bag, etc. and asking “what is in this?”

So let’s look at three things you use every day that may be causing you more harm than good.

Deodorant

Considered a fundamental for personal care in my book, deodorant is one of those items you don’t just want to use, but so do all the people around you.

It keeps you smelling fresh when you’re not and in some cases of deodorant/anti/antiperspirants, prevent you from sweating. Many deodorants contain on average of six toxic chemicals such as propylene glycol, parabens, triclosan and aluminum. Classified as a carcinogen, aluminum is is proven to be directly involved with causing cancer. And considering you’re applying it to one of the most porous parts of your body (the armpit), you are applying a biocummulative that not just stores in your fat and accumulates sometimes multiple times a day. And aluminum has been linked to breast cancer in women and has also been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Instead look for an aluminum free deodorant like this stick or spray. Made with only completely natural products, you can pronounce the ingredients and you’ll know exactly what they are like organic lavender and orange essential oils.

Shampoo/Conditioner

But it’s not just want we put on our skin that’s toxic, it’s what we wash down the drain that’s even more harmful. Just think about washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner. While we add a few tablespoons to our scalp, have you ever thought about how much of that gets washed out?

In the U.S., we pour more than 350 million of gallons of shampoo ALONE down the drain.

And unfortunately, while our waste treatment plants are designed to remove bacteria, they aren’t able to clean out the toxic chemicals. So that means it goes right back to your home, your plumbing, and ultimately back to the sink you probably drink from. That’s why using a natural, toxic-free shampoo and conditioner can make big difference not just to your hair, but to the health of your family and others.

With organic aloe and essentials, Ava Anderson avaHAIR shampoo and conditioner repairs, beautified and strengthens hair without adding harsh or toxic ingredients to dry out, strip down or damage your hair.

Toothpaste

Think that you’re teeth aren’t at risk to toxic chemicals, just think about what you’re putting on your teeth. That’s right many toothpastes include 5-7 chemicals that are known not just to cause cancer, but cause autism, ADHD, and other cognitive impairments. One of those ingredients sometimes found in toothpaste, triclosan, is registered with the government as a pesticide, and is a known endocrine disruptor, disrupt thyroid function and contribute to liver and inhalation toxicity.

And I won’t even go into fluoride. While there are many debates on the use of fluoride in the water supply, some people have severe allergic reactions.

Instead use a toothpaste that is made with naturally-sourced baking soda that neutralizes mouth acids, cleans teeth and gums, and freshens without fluoride or the use of artificial sweeteners is your best options for clean teeth and even cleaner living. There’s even an option for kids, too.

Now let’s be reasonable. I’m not suggesting you actually throw out the new bottle of shampoo you just bought for $25, but when you’re done why don’t you purchase an all-natural one instead? Or each time you use it, think about what you’re doing to the water system, your health and your kids’ health.

That’ll probably get your thinking a little more about healthier living. And why wouldn’t you choose the best option made by mother nature?

Think you’re done? Not even. So many chemicals, so little time. But if you’re interested in learning more about being a label detective or learning more about a how to make healthier decisions for your family, email me. And make sure to stay connected on social media and sign up for our newsletter to make sure you get the latest and greatest information, resources, news and more.

If you make a purchase using PARTY# 102771, you can get a FREE BOO BOO STICK (my favorite) with a minimum purchase and a special discount with your first avaORDER.

New STEM Center Preps Girls for Endless Possibilities

October 21, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

We are living in the age of the #GIRLBOSS. From international stars like Beyonce who have evolved the view of feminism to global executives like Marissa Mayer and Sheryl Sandberg who encourage us to lean in, the perspective of women in society is changing for the better.

And it’s about damn time.

Frankly, I’m so tired of females being viewed as weak, unskilled and one dimensional.

We are strong. We are brave. We are fearless.

But we aren’t teaching our daughters to be like that.

However, organizations like the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas are teaching girls that they can accomplish anything they put their minds too by exposing them to possibilities that were once viewed as being only for boys. And I couldn’t be more excited to see that work is underway for the first STEM Center of Excellence at Camp Whispering Cedars.

Located in Southern Dallas, the STEM Center will be a living laboratory where girls in grades kindergarten through 12th grade can explore science, technology, engineering and math programs, activities and careers in a unique girl-centered outdoor leadership environment. This 21st-century facility and program will provide the leadership skills, experience, mentors and encouragement that girls need to increase their interest in STEM.

Despite the fact that technology is rapidly evolving, creating more jobs in the industry, there is still a low number of women in computer science and engineering, and experts say this is very concerning for the future.

In 2014, women made up only 22% of the STEM workforce. One of the ways to close this gender gap is for women to see other women in the technology fields so that they can see what they can become. But truthfully, this exposure needs to happen before they enter the workforce. Girls need to be introduced to these science-based career options at a young age so that they can see what their options are.

I have always applauded the Girl Scouts for the leadership and overall life skills that they teach girls. From something as simple as learning how to start a fire without dangerous lighter fluid to the entrepreneurial experiences they glean from selling Girl Scouts cookies. It’s more than just tasty treats; it’s truly a business.

The Girl Scouts have been teaching girls these lessons for more than a century, and finally the rest of the world finally caught on. Brands like Tampex have shifted the thinking of “Like a Girl,” to be one of strength and determination. Under Armour has encouraged female athletes and fitness enthusiasts to “do what they want.”

And now we can add the STEM Center of Excellence to list of programs that will change way girls and even women see themselves in the world. The grand opening of the center is slated for April 8-9, 2016.

Get Real with Real Tips for Women Defense {Free Class}

October 20, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

Did you know every 2 minutes someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted? Which means 1 sexual assault every 107 seconds.

And that is sexual assault. Sometimes a perpetrator isn’t after you, but is after your purse, your phone, or just to hurt someone.

Sad to think those are the facts, but in the world we live in we all should be able to defend ourselves if you ever have to face it. And with a little preventative measures, you can keep try to yourself from getting into a bad situation.

As part of a special women’s only defense class with Black Belt Nick Chamberlain at Chamberlain’s Studios in Dallas, I was able to not just learn a few tactical moves to be able to handle myself if I was assaulted as well as as real easy tips that put into place will keep me ever safer no matter where I’m at or what situation I’m put in. A few of us even threw down a few moves and even split a board in half with “break a board for a buck” for the Genesis Women’s Shelter in Dallas.

The Genesis Women’s Shelter provides shelter, safety, counseling, and expert services to battered women and their children. A Dallas organization that began in 1985, their mission is to end the epidemic of domestic violence against women and children and raising the level of community awareness regarding the pervasiveness and effects of domestic violence.

5 Easy Tips to Keep You Safe

Prevention is always the best form of defense. Keep intruders out by having good locks on all doors and windows. Drive with doors locked. Stay away from deserted areas (day or night) and travel with friends.
Train yourself to be alert and aware of potential dangers. Learn to notice things out of place (someone following, for example.)
Surprise is a valuable weapon. Your attacker does not know that you are capable of fighting back. Striking first without delay will give you a definite advantage.
Be sure and aggressive in your response. Don’t worry about injuring your attacker, they have made a commitment to do you harm so you must make a commitment to stop them – whatever it takes!
Remember, the attacker is not looking for a fight. He preys on the easy target. Learn to walk tall and be confident in everything you do. If you are confident, assertive and determined they may well look for easier prey.

I personally believe that this class should be a part of the college curriculum, especially for women. It’s such a fundamental need to be smart and protect yourself especially in this age of technology where everything is shared and everything can be tracked.

You also can take advantage of this important opportunity with an upcoming free women’s defense course with Chamberlain’s Studios on Nov. 21. While the class is free, donations will benefit the Genesis Women’s Shelter. Women will receive a free two-hour interactive self defense course and work out including self defense tactics and safety tips. Women can also ‘Break a Board for a Buck’ where each dollar will benefit Genesis.The Dallas Police Department Northwest Substation will also have an officer there to cover general/holiday safety and awareness topics. Best of all, free child care (for those 4 and up) is provided by the Chamberlain trained staff in neighboring gym where kids (potty trained and up) will experience martial art school activities and exercises. After class free pizza by the great Primo Brothers Pizza (32 yr old Lake Highlands establishment.)

Free Women’s Defense Course with Chamberlain’s Studios
Nov. 21, 10 am – noon
St. John’s Episcopal School
484 Harter Road
Dallas, Texas 75218
Comfortable clothes recommended.
Participants should follow the drive way to the back part of our campus and the Main Gym will be located on the far east side of the building and down the stairs.

In addition to being kind and easy to learn from, the Chamberlain’s team knows how to host an event including the upcoming Brewhaha, Free Family Fitness Day (every last Saturday of the month), and Parent’s Night Out (second Friday of the month.) Learn more about this studio and its offerings for the whole family by visiting http://www.dallaskenpo.com and connecting with them on Facebook.

Conquer The REAL Hunger Games

October 18, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

The residents from each district in The Hunger Games face poverty, persecution and unlivable conditions. But for thousands of Americans today, the odds are most certainly not in their favor. This fictional story is their reality.

In the state of Texas alone, 4.8 million people are food insecure, meaning that they have insufficient access to food and anxiety over poor nutrition. Plus, 1 in every 4 kids in North Texas is food insecure as well.

To help combat this ever-growing problem and anticipation of the final chapter The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2, Studio Movie Grill is teaming up with local food banks to support the Fight Against Hunger. From Monday, Oct. 19 -Thursday, Oct. 22, SMG locations in all 10 states nationwide will host $5 movies and donate 100% of the proceeds to local food banks.

Additionally, 10% of the proceeds raised from online sales of Hunger Games-themed digital gift cards will benefit these partnering food banks. Gift cards make great holiday offerings and will be available online from Oct. 23 – Nov. 25 at www.studiomoviegrill.com.

For my friends right here in North Texas, those proceeds will benefit the North Texas Food Bank, an organization that provided 62 million meals in 2014. Plus, for every dollar that’s donated, they are able to provide access to three meals.

Not only do these families receive confidence in knowing where their next meal is coming from, but the likelihood of them suffering from other medical conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, decreases because their food is nutritional.

The Hunger Games is a fantastic book, turned into even better movies. And if $5 helps helps a family become their own personal Mockingjay, I think they deserve a double-feature night.

Fat Daddy’s Goes Big This October

October 17, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

If you’ve never been to Fat Daddy’s, be ready for a big surprise…I know I was.

When you’re more than 15,000 sq. ft. you don’t do anything small.

In honor of ‪‎Breast Cancer‬ Awareness month, Fat Daddy’s is donating $1 for every new “LIKE” received in October to benefit local organization, the Careity Foundation for their efforts to support local breast cancer patients.

That means your one click to “LIKE” on Facebook will go to help a cancer patient in need who may not have the resources to pay for health bills or other necessary resources.

Then at the end of celebrating breast care awareness that kicked off with their first annual Pink Party, this Mansfield dining and entertainment destination will kick it Halloween with old school with one of my favorites, Rob Van Winkle, AKA Vanilla Ice.

Don’t miss this epic HALLOWEEN ICE PARTY Oct. 31 with none other than an ice bar, costume contests and more! Register for the Halloween Costume Contest at 7 pm, DJ Starts at 8 pm and Vanilla Ice goes on at 11 pm.

Halloween Costume Contest will take place before the show.Winners will receive:$250 Scariest, $250 Sexiest and $500 Best costume.

Wanna meet Vanilla? Five lucky winners and their friends will get to MEET VANILLA ICE HIMSELF! Just enter here to win.

If you can’t make it for the party, no worries – Fat Daddy’s has something every weekend! Just check out their event calendar or just drop in for a great meal and super drinks. I highly suggest the Pink Cadillac!

« Previous Page