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mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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“You’re the Bomb” Thank You Gift {Free Printable}

August 3, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 37 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Sometimes you just need to say thank you.

Especially for those things you just come to expect from people like your drycleaners, neighborhood barista, and even your daycare. These people make your world go ’round and can save your booty every time when you’re rushed, need a favor, or even just a smile when your day is done…


Bomb Pop Makes You Smile

With temperatures skyrocketing and a last few weeks where I felt I had cashed in all my favors with everyone, it was time to put a little back in emotional currency…or much easier said, I needed to give back and just say thank you to a lot of people who had helped our family keep going!

A little recognition was in order – in a sweet way.

Bomp Pop

With a  quick run to Kroger for the Original Bomb Pop, a cold ice chest, and a little bit of ink from the printer, Project “You’re the Bomb” was underway! Using this cute free printable paired with the iconic rocket-shaped multi-flavor sweet treat, made for an easy giftable that was just as much fun to make and give as it was to get!

Bomb-Pop-Package

Printing on 5X7 print sheets, the card can be used for anyone you want to say thank you to!

mamabomb

Bob Pop Thank You

A few tips for the “You’re the Bomb” thank you gift, consider the following:

  1. Don’t try to do too many unless you have a super cooler to keep it cold for hours
  2. Think about the schedule the people on your list have. Don’t show up at their busy time or they might now be able to enjoy it
  3. Make sure to enter this giveaway to get your Bomb Pop Prize pack including $25 gift card to Kroger!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Birthday Party Hosting Toolkit

July 28, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 23 Comments

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Wet-Nap®, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #ConquerTheMess http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

I like LOVE to plan my kids’ birthday parties.

Diapers and potty training sucked, but I consider one of the perks of motherhood is that I can get to plan events that not only my kids can remember, but the adults actually enjoy, too!


Party-Time

Each birthday the kids and I brainstorm together what their birthday theme including the decor, food, and entertainment. While photos always show the end results with cake, centerpieces, etc., the event planner in me B.C. (before children) has one trick up her sleeve that may not be make it to the slideshow, but always makes it to the party…my Birthday Party Mess Toolkit.

Wet-Nap
From Mickey Mouse, Dinosaurs, The Little Mermaid, and our recent Golf Par-tee, mama always packs these items to ensure a successful birthday with easy cleanup where ever you are!

Conquer-the-Mess

MamaChallenge.com Birthday Party Toolkit

1.  Scissors

This will save you every time. From prepping birthday balloons or if a kid gets stuck on a piece of wood (it happened), you’ll feel like Batman will you pull these out of your utility belt.

2.  Tape 

Like scissors, you never know when you’ll need, but when you do, you’ll save the (birth)day. Many times decorations come down at the last minute and a big thing of duct tape will make you better than Handy Manny.

3.  Twine

Twine or string end up with interesting uses, from hanging decorations to tying up that pinata, but at $1 buck a roll, you’ll be happy you sacrificed a George Washington.

4.  Black Sharpie Pen

You should never leave your house without one of these. Ever. From putting a child’s name on a favor bag you didn’t know was coming or making a direction sign to find the party, a Sharpie is your saving grace.

5.  First Aid Kit

This is a no-brainer; one kid will always need a band-aid, but make sure the bandages are the plain brown ones, unless you want to handout bandages like a birthday favor.

6.  Bug Spray and Sunscreen 

No matter what time of the year, you need to be prepared for both of these. Nothing is worse than a child that turns into a tomato because she’s blistered by the sun or bit from a bug.

7.  Notepad and Pen 

The writing down of the gifts is the last thing you remember to prepare for, so just make sure to keep a little notepad in your kit and you’ll never feel like you have to memorize gift wrap to gift ever again!

8.  Charge Stick and Batteries

This is a new add to my kit, but is a MUST HAVE. One of those cheap battery backups will save you when your phone is dwindling on 10%. And batteries? If you don’t bring them, every gift you’ll get will have them and that’s no good – ever.

9.  Wet-Naps 

Every mom and dad will thank you for having Wet-Naps – all over the place. Safe to be used on face, hands and body, you’ll need for everything from crafting conundrums to cupcake cleanup. Just make picking up Wet-Naps as part of your regular run to Walmart with the eggs, milk and bread! (You’ll never not use ’em!) 

10. Large plastic baggy/plastic grocery sack 

Occasionally, you might have an accident (and when I say accident, I’m referring to a child that wets his pants ) or need to keep up with something special. A plastic bag is like that extra box of Girl Scout cookies that you don’t know why you bought them, but they always disappear.

Wet-naps

Visit Walmart for all your Wet-Nap® needs: 110-Count Hands, Face, & Body Cleansing Wipes, 24-Count Packettes Antibacterial Hand Wipes and 40-Count Canister Antibacterial Hand Wipes.

Birthday Party Toolkit

 

Keep Rolllin’ with Easy Lunch Box Sushi

July 27, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 6 Comments

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Weave Made Media®, and Hillshire Farm®, but all my opinions are my own. #weavemade #HillshireNaturals http://my-disclosur.es/RgFrEH.

I’d like to say that there was a time in the day where things slowed down, but they don’t.

The morning is a mad dash to the first of many destinations.  Lunch often doesn’t even get a moment to be recognized except when you hear my stomach. And dinner is the brief moment between getting home, homework and getting back to unfinished work.


So any meal that doesn’t require more than five minutes and is healthy to eat, is a win-win in my book – whether it’s for the kids or for me!

Hillshire-Farms-Lunch

Thankfully, Hillshire Farm is taking time for the important things like choosing the best farms and the best cuts of meat, to make natural lunch meats that are 100% natural and even better, 100% guaranteed you’re gonna like ’em!

We can take down a container of Hillshire Farm in just one sitting at any meal of the day, but  I don’t feel bad because it’s it’s free of artificial ingredients, colors, preservatives, gluten and 97% fat free.


Save $0.75 on any ONE (1) Hillshire Farm Naturals® Black Forest Ham or Honey Roasted Ham with this digital coupon available through the Just4U online portal.  *** Expires 8/9/15. (While Supplies Last)

However, wanting to change it up a bit, we made a way to make a quick, fun, easy and “creative” way to put a few vegetables into the mix with this lunch box sushi made with Hillshire Farm Naturals Ham I found at Tom Thumb.

Hillshire-Farm-Sushi

By taking items always found in the fridge, like our favorite Hillshire Farm Honey Roasted Ham, carrots, spinach, string cheese and white bread, I made up a meal that’s paired perfect with fresh fruit or a snack that can be eaten with my fingers while still working on the hustle and bustle of the day like in the car or on the computer!

Finally you have something that keeps you rollin’ all day and even mix up with other items like eggs, Hillshire Farm ham and cheese for breakfast!  And finally there’s also a lunch meat that taste good, is good for you and best of all is good for your budget!

Don’t you ❤️ it when you find your favorite healthy go-to AND its on sale? #HillshireNaturals #WeaveMade #ad

A photo posted by MamaChallenge.com | Autumn Reo (@autumnreo) on Jul 19, 2015 at 4:48pm PDT

And Hillshire Farm® goes one step further with a “Love It or We’ll Eat It” Guarantee to try the new Hillshire Farm Naturals. If you love it, they’ll donate a meal to someone in need and if you don’t, you get your money back! It’s that easy!

If you want another idea for a great way to enjoy Hillshire Farm Naturals for dinner, check out this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe the whole family will love and you’ll love that it’s on the table in under 30 minutes!

Lunchbox-Dinners

 

7 Must-Haves for Hawaiian Falls Water Park {Giveaway}

July 23, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

*Affiliate links included.*

Guess what? If you live in Texas, you know it gets hot.  One moment it’s 75, spring and perfect, and moments later, you are faced with triple-digit-temperatures and the beaming sun. It’s just part of the perks in living in the best state in America…LOL.

So until the fall comes in a month or we experience a random “cool front,” the water park isn’t just for fun, it’s a way of survival as we to find ways to keep cool this summer.


7 Must Haves

One of our favorites you can find throughout North Texas is Hawaiian Falls. These family-friendly Water and NOW Adventure Parks offer right-size water fun at several locations throughout Texas including DFW-based Roanoke, The Colony, Garland and Mansfield. No matter what location you head to, the whole family can dive in or even rent a cabana for the day for the ultra-luxury convenience (that’s actually really easy on the wallet, too!

Adventure-Park ziplines

But before you head to the any of the nine, make sure your family has these key water-park essentials that will ensure everyone stays safe, cool. and ready for real water fun at Hawaiian Falls.

1)      Beach Bag
Large tote that can hold all of your summer necessities. This one is HUGE and looks like it would hold everything you could possibly need!

2)      Large Beach Towel
Dry off and rest from all of the playing on a big beach towel. Buying a beach towel is a special process, but the theory is – the bigger, the better, like this one!

3)      Water Shoes
Keep those toes safe as your walk (don’t run) around the waterpark. (However, you cannot wear watershoes on the large slides.) I just bought these in green for my son and he loves the cool design, color and I love the durability and price!)

4)      Hat
Shield yourself from the sun rays one layer at a night with a big floppy hat, and the one comes in a variety of colors. Plus you’ll look really cute as you cover that lack of makeup and wet hair. (It don’t matter, if you don’t mind…as long as you look like JLO, right?) And don’t forget the babies either with this cute, waterproof and UPF 50 one for the kids.)

5)      Sunscreen

Because who likes sunburns and wants to look like raisin?  Protect you and your family by applying sunscreen every hour at least, especially when you’re at the water park. This one is a perfect size for the beach bag and has an SPF of 50. Remember, the FDA just released that spraying on sunscreen isn’t effective; you need to apply a cream or one of my favorites, mineral brush-on for your face.

(6)      Cooler
Find yourself a small-to-medium cooler to hold lunch and cold drinks for the day. One with wheels like this one is recommended, and you can place your beach tote on top for easy rolling! Make sure you remember to buy a cooler pass, only $10 to have your arsenal of snacks and drinks with you all day.

7)      Large Plastic “Ziplock” Bags
Like sunscreen a bag for all your necessities like your mobile phone, money, etc. should be put in a plastic zip baggie or one of these waterproof bags to make sure your day doesn’t go from delightful to dead phone.

Arrive at one of these parks bright and early at 10 a.m. and prepare yourself for a day of relaxation and laughs. Whether you have a toddler just starting to walk or elementary-aged child who is yearning for a little bit independence, Hawaiian Falls has all amenities to keep your family happy.

Want to learn more about what you can bring or not bring to Hawaiian Falls? Make sure to check their FAQs.

Tickets range from $19.99 to $26.99 depending upon the park you choose and the amenities you select within the park (like the adventure parks which may have additional fees.)

OR you can win family four passes to Hawaiian Falls!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cool it with the Hottest Coolers

July 21, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Summer is hot, but your food and fun shouldn’t be! Here’s how to to Cool it with the Hottest Coolers. Affiliate links may apply. 

“It’s summer time”….(cue the Will Smith…)

With summer approaches hot times with fun activities that require you to keep your drinks and food cool while you hang with the heat. Whether you’re throwing a party, going camping or just roadtripping for a few days, these coolers definitely will take your ice chest to the next level.


Coleman // 54 Quart Steel Belted Cooler
$149.99

 

Coleman

Looks like the original steel-belted coolers of your grandparents’ days, but with today’s technologies. This stainless steel baby holds 85 cans, has rubber grip handles for easy carrying and comes with a solid steel latch seals it completely. Rust resistant with easy to clean base, lid and liner, this is the kind of cooler that will make you feel like you are ready for battle.

[Tweet “What’s the key to loading an ice chest? 2:1 ice to contents AND put the drinks in first! “]

YETI // Tundra
$399.99

Yeti

Austin-based YETI coolers have taken the cooler market to new heights! The Tundra coolers are built from the same process that premium kayaks are made from. It’s a process called roto-molding and the end result is a beyond durable cooler that will last for years. However, it’s the Fat Wall design – extra thick walls that include 2” of insulation all around that allow the YEIT to hold ice for days..and days…and days. If you check out their website, you’ll see every outdoorsman of every type is committed to the YETI and if you bring it to a party, better keep your eye on because someone will want it! Other features include non-slip feet, easy drain system and comfortable carrying options. YETI started with hard sided coolers, but now offers soft sided coolers and a whole line of drinkware….so something for everything!

Igloo // Party Bar Cooler
$199 – $249.99

igloo-studio-threeqrts-full

The folks at Texas-based Igloo definitely know a thing or two about keeping it cool, and their new Party Bar cooler powered by LiddUp is bound to take even the coolest parties. When darkness falls, the exclusive LiddUp® LED light system emits a cool glow that both sets the party mood and illuminates the cooler’s contents—letting thirsty guests find what they want quickly. The Party Bar effortlessly rolls your drinks from the pantry to the party on locking casters. Or if you prefer a more classic look, remove the Party Bar from its base for use it as a standard ice chest. With a built-in bottle opener with Catch bin to removable drink dividers and wine caddy to the convenient utility loops and removable lid…The Party Bar comes equipped with all the essentials you need to easily pick your poison, pop the top and party on.

Coolest Cooler // The Coolest Cooler
$299.00
TheCoolestCooler
Seting a Kickstarter record for the most-funded campaign ($13.3 million), The Coolest Cooler is just a presale away. Just check out what your under $500 purchase makes.

  • High-performance Blender
  • Outdoor BlueTooth Speaker with Party Pairing®
  • USB Charger
  • LED Lid Light
  • Cooler Divider / Cutting board
  • Bottle Opener
  • Done in One™ Tie-down bungee cord
  • 20V Rechargeable Lithium Battery
  • Accessory Deck
  • Ergonomic Design Built to Last

Keep it Cool this Summer!

Road Trip with QuikTrip

July 19, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 46 Comments

Summers are synonymous with road trips.

Just take a look at your Facebook feed and you’ll see friends and family all packing up their minivans and SUVs to take off down the highway to visit loved ones, to find new adventures or sometimes just seeing where the road takes them. [Just check out our Road Trip Adventures.]

A big part of that road trip experience is where you stop along the way for the important things: you know, bathroom breaks and something to eat!


QT Kitchens Offerings

However, no longer does grabbing a soggy sandwich at the convenience store or bag a chips have to be your only option. Gas stations like Quik Trip have transformed to road destinations for everything you need including always-clean bathrooms, a variety of delicious hot coffees, fresh and hot entrees, and even that missing item you forgot to pack.

QT_ChickenSandwich

QT_ChickenWrap

Now outfitted with a “hot kitchen,” most QT locations will cook up anything you request on their self-serve kiosks including healthy smoothies and milkshakes, thick crust pizzas and some pretty tasty kolaches. While the new offerings are on my hot list, my kids still love the hot dog rollers where they can make up their own dog paired with their 32 oz. of whatever concoctions they made at the drink station. But at the prices the

Kolache

And don’t pretend you haven’t been tempted by the specialty items they advertise outside when you’re pumping gas…we have all thought how good would those strawberry cheesecake donut holes would be or a nice cold milkshake?

QT Shake

But the sweetest thing I always love about Quik Trip is the service. No matter what time of day, morning, noon and way into the night, the place is clean, the team members are smiling, quick and helpful to get you on your trip…Guess that’s why they call it QuikTrip, huh?

QT Grilled Chicken

If you haven’t tried your nearest QuikTrip lately to try out their menu, I highly suggest it – even if you aren’t on a road trip. And if you’re planning a few days to be in the car, know that red QT will be there to take care of you along the way – anytime of the day. But the breakfast pizza alone is a reason to get in the car and go over there and get it right now.

QT Pizza

Don’t miss this freebie for buy one get one free frozen lemonade and make sure to enter for a $25 gift card to try QuikTrip for yourself!

Happy Road Trippin’! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Get Teachers Back to School with #RaiseAHand

July 15, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 13 Comments

Disclaimer

Last year was my son’s first year of school. Like every mom I thought my child was superkid; supersmart and super ready for anything that first grade threw at him.

What I learned is that while there were some areas he did wonderfully at, some areas he just wasn’t cutting it. To make sure he didn’t fall behind, it required not only he and I work together at night, but weekly tutoring with his teacher AFTER school. Each week she met with him separately for an hour to work on homework. Not as part of a special fee; not as something we did for just a few months, but throughout the whole year. It wasn’t easy, but it made a huge difference for him going forward and his attitude on school (especially reading!)


I can’t tell if he’s scared out of his mind or so excited he can’t wait! Probably both; I know I am! #backtoschool @thebroadcasttv

A photo posted by MamaChallenge.com | Autumn Reo (@autumnreo) on Aug 25, 2014 at 6:17am PDT

Teachers like Mrs. Morales at Viridian Elementary deserve to be recognized not just for their great teaching, but because of their attitude to go”over and beyond.”

Did you know? According to AdoptAClassroom.org:

  • Teachers spend an average of $500 of their own money each year to equip their classrooms
  • 70% of teachers have even purchased apparel items like jackets, socks and shoes for their students
  • 1 in 3 teachers are actually buying clothes for students (along with school supplies) with money from their own pockets

ThredUp

My new favorite website to find back to school clothes for 90% off retail, thredUP.com, has partnered with AdoptAClassroom.org to recognize and thank teachers for their hard work and the positive impact they make each day on our children’s lives, just like Mrs. Morales did for my son.

[Tweet “I nominated Ms. Morales! Please vote for her! #RaiseAHand for teachers with @thredUP & @Adopt_classroom: http://bit.ly/1IHMV67 “]

Now until August 23, you can nominate a teacher you think is deserving to win money for their classrooms and a credit with thredUP. Three teachers each win $2,500 for classroom supplies and $500 to thredUP. 50 runner-up winners receive $100 to thredUP. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, September 8.


Read other inspiring nominations and watch an adorable video of kids thanking teachers at http://www.thredUP.com/Teachers.

 So what teacher will you #RaiseaHand for? 

Not-to-Miss Shops at Southlake Town Square

July 13, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

SponsoredPostDisclaimer Everybody in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex (AKA DFW), knows there’s only one thing we like to do better besides EAT…it’s SHOP. And we have every option you can imagine from layout, location, price point…you name it! And in Southlake, the shopping goes down in a picturesque setting right out of the 50s appropriately called Southlake Town Square.

Town-Square

Equipped a post office, city offices, movie theatre, and several beautiful buildings all set in several “town square” units, you can spend days walking the area’s retail centers, eateries and even movie theater!  So just because it may seem like you’re walking through a page out of Patty Duke or Donna Reed, the 120+ stores here are  first-class fashion and food; and exclusive to Tarrant County or even Southlake Town Square!

Fashion-Show

Photo from 2014 Trending LIVE Fashion show at Southlake Town Square.

While you’ll find your favorites like Gap, Banana Republic and Anthropologie, you can’t miss some of these unique shopping and eateries.

1. Malouf’s //  website

With only two locations in Lubbock and Southlake, for 65 years Malouf’s has offered the finest merchandise from the top designers around the world. Full of all the top named brands for him and for her, the store also offers one-on-one consultations at your home, office or in the store with stylists will give you expert advice and make your shopping experience rewarding and effortless.

Malouf

 2. Soft Surroundings // website

Soft Surroundings is a unique shopping experience. Rather than simply selling merchandise, Soft Surroundings cultivates a lifestyle of well-being and self-preservation. Today’s woman is learning the value of “me” time and the necessity of putting herself on her long list of things “to do.” She values contentment and simplicity. She commits herself to this lifestyle in everything she wears and everything she does, even while sleeping.

Soft-Surroundings  3. HMK // website

HMK is a new Hallmark experience. If you are like me and feel like everything should be monogrammed; this is your store. HMK helps you create beautiful gifts, cards and accessories and discover something surprising. Need a gift, this is your place.

HMK

4.   Elaine Turner // website

Texas-born Elaine Turner created her first handbag selling it to Neiman Marcus. After 15 years and several stores boutiques, Elaine Turner has expanded to include clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories for an accessible luxury brand.

Elaine-Turner  5. TruFire // website The “Neighborhood Concept” presented by long time restauranteurs, David Kazarian & Jay Clark, with technology leader and retailer, Tony Weiss. The kitchen is the heart of the home and the engine of TruFire… With food and drink the best of conversations are had, celebrations erupt, alliances are struck and laughter can be heard for miles… don’t miss the artichokes, brunch or ahi tuna salad. Come and experience a unique and enjoyable atmosphere where “Life Happens In The Kitchen” Trufire

 6. Harkins Cine Capri Theatre // website

The Cine Capri® auditorium is the pinnacle of motion picture presentation with the largest screens and the very best in projection and sound technology. The Cine Capri boasts a 30′ x 70′ screen, towering before 600 stadium-style Ultimate Rocker® love-seats. The signature gold waterfall drapes open to unveil each performance in a truly dramatic fashion. And don’t miss E.Leigh’s Boutique and the ME SPA.

And since Southlake Town Square is always expanding, there are several new hot spots that are OPENING SOON!

Spin SPIN! Pizza // website

SPIN! Pizza is an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience with flavor-packed, fresh ingredients that are roasted daily in a stone oven before topping the pizzas. Come solo or with a group and enjoy energetic, cool, and contemporary atmosphere. Salads are fresh, fresh, fresh, with homemade dressing. Cool, creamy gelato. Vino by the glass or bottle.

Kendra Scott // website

Kendra Scott is a leading fashion accessories brand inspired by the personal experiences, travels and sense of community of its CEO and designer.The 1,067 square foot space, located across from Sephora and J. Crew, will showcase the coveted Kendra Scott Color Bar™, offering shoppers a unique, interactive experience to create customized jewelry in minutes. The Color Bar features a touch screen display monitor, iPads and a kaleidoscope of gemstones and jewelry silhouettes in both gold and rhodium silver settings. The stores shelves will boast signature and seasonal jewelry collections in an array of rich hues that embody the Kendra Scott look.

vineyard vines// website

vineyard vines will be located in a 3,365 square foot space, across from Michael Kors and Apple, where it will bring its signature Martha’s Vineyard style to Southlake Town Square. Best known for its whimsical neckties and smiling pink whale logo, vineyard vines was founded in 1998 on Martha’s Vineyard when brothers Shep and Ian Murray cut their “ties” with corporate America to start making ties that represented the “Good Life.” In addition to signature neckwear, vineyard vines offers a variety of clothing and accessories for men, women and children.

bluemercury //website

Also opening is Bluemercury, a leading luxury beauty retailer offering cosmetics, skin care, makeup, perfume, hair, and bath and body lines. Products in the 1,138 square foot store located near lululemon will include well-known, high-end luxury beauty brands such as Darphin, Skinceuticals, Trish McEvoy and Scott, vineyard vines and Bluemercury NARS, as well as their proprietary skincare brand, M-61, all supported with personalized assistance from a team of highly trained beauty experts.

Stores also not to miss that are unique to Tarrant County found only at Southlake Town Square  include Boston Proper (upscale women’s fashion), Tyler’s (Active. Lifestyle. Apparel, Footwear, Eyewear & Accessories), and Whole Earth Provision Co. (high-quality products designed with Earth in mind.)

Southlake Town Square

Southlake Town Square 
1256 Main St. Suite
100 Southlake, Texas
website

Rainforest Adventure SEA LIFE Aquarium Grapevine {Giveaway}

July 10, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Gators, Pirahnas, Snakes…oh my!

The SEALIFE Aquarium Grapevine Mills Texas takes at walk on the wild side with a few new “friends” we all love to hate.

The new 3,500-square-foot interactive exhibit takes you to the lush environment of the world’s rainforests to encounter caimans, piranha, pythons and more.. Unique features include a piranha walk-through tunnel, a domed pop-up window in the middle of the snake habitat, and newly renovated touch tanks with coldwater invertebrates.


Sealife-Aquarium

You begin their journey through the rainforest where rays of light shine through the mist and forest canopy. In the Amazonian rivers gallery, freshwater fish swim amongst twisted roots, tree stumps and lush planting. The caiman exhibit takes visitors to an abandoned ancient temple reclaimed by the forest and two Cuvier’s dwarf caimans.

Sealife-Aquarium

Then you can get an up-close view of red-bellied piranha as they swim overhead in the eight-foot long walk through tunnel. In the snake habitat is a domed pop-up window where kids can observe the intriguing lifestyle of the Burmese python, one of the largest snake species on earth. You’ll also discover the newly re-imagined rock pools where they can touch and learn about coldwater invertebrates native to the west coast.

Sealife-Aquarium

Engage one-on-one with education hosts during daily educational talks to learn more about a variety of exotic reptiles including the Argentine tegu, Australian blue-tongued skink, and Madagascar tomato frog.

Sealife-Aquarium

 

SEA LIFE Grapevine
3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, Texas 76051
Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
$20 for adults, $16 for children ages 3 to 12, and free for kids 2
http://www.visitsealife.com/grapevine
817.819.7677

WIN 4 Tickets to SEALIFE Aquarium 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DINOmite Dinosaur Party Ideas

July 6, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Jurassic World roared into theaters this summer and continues to dominate box offices nationwide! You can bring the biggest hit of the summer home with these adorable dinosaur party ideas featuring toys, games, and treats from HABA USA featured on EyeOpenerTV/Aol.com Parenting!


BRING JURASSIC WORLD TO YOUR KID’S SANDBOX Digging Claw by HABA USA // $12.99

  • Wear it like a glove to take a bite out of the sand. Makes digging fun and easy!
  • Cool dino design
  • For ages 1+

3D BOARD GAME IS DINO-RIFIC FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Expedition Dino Game by HABA USA // $37.99

  • Armed with a hammer and chisel, players excavate petrified bones from the rocks, avoiding the dangerous dinos hiding there
  •  Fantastic 3D game board
  •  Includes 1 game board, 1 wooden character, 1 die, 1 hammer and 1 chisel
  •  Recommended for ages 4+
  •  Made in Germany

WHIP UP A BATCH OF TRIASSIC-ERA TREATS! Dinosaur Parade Silicone Chocolate Lollipops Mold by HABA USA // $11.99

  • Mold creates 6 different Dinosaur shaped chocolate treats in minutes
  • Set includes 2 child-safe recipes
  • Mold is easy to clean
  • For ages 4+

SWEETEN UP PREHISTORIC PARTIES AND PLAYDATES WITH A DINO CAKE! Dinosaur Silicone Cake Mold by HABA USA // $11.99

  • Cake mold shaped like adorable dino
  • Comes with 3 child-friendly baking recipes
  • Easy to clean mold
  • Ages 4+

FUN FOODS WITH DINOSAURS

  • Peanut Butter Cookies – Use the refrigerated dough and a toy dinosaur foot to make a cute fossil cookie. Hide them in brown sugar for a fun presentation and activity in one!

Fossil-Cookies

  • Dinosaur Dig Cups – Layer chocolate pudding and crumbled Oreo cookies for a dinoriffic snack. Top with gummy dinosaurs for the perfect topping.

Dino-Dig-Cups

  • Herbivore Cups – Not all dinosaurs ate meat and a little veggie never hurt your tiny T-Rex either! Place a few tablespoons of hummus with veggies for a healthy snack.
  • Dinosaur Sandwiches – Nothing magic here, but the help of a brontosaurus sandwich cutter, bread and your favorite lunch meat!

VeggieCups

  • Dino Juice – Using a green juice or carbonated water like Sparking Ice Kiwi Strawberry like I used. Then go crazy with some whip cream for making your watering hole a little more fun!

EyeOpener

FOR MORE DINO-MITE IDEAS

Follow Autumn {mamachallenge.com}’s board Dinosaur Party on Pinterest.

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I put it off all day because I didn’t want to ha I put it off all day because I didn’t want to have to start the inevitable, but here we are the first #SeniorSunday for Jackson Benham Reo. (I’m so not ready.)
Doubled-down and won big! Congrats to @daynetxbbq Doubled-down and won big! Congrats to @daynetxbbq for being named #7 in @texasmonthly 2025 Top 50 BBQ! 

We’ve done our own BBQ stop shopping this last year from our own @hurtadobbq, @smokenashbbq and @225bbq in Arlington, @goldeesbbq and @panthercitybbq in Fort Worth, @zavalasbarbecue in Grand Prairie and @franklinbbq in Austin, no one can say that BBQ is BBQ. It’s as vastly different as the landscape as Texas. Now I’m off to @burntbeanco - #sequin here we come with the rest of the state!

#bbq #texasbbq
I can’t believe these are my people…my people I can’t believe these are my people…my people are supposed to be toddlers with Thomas the Train and Disney Princess backpacks! 

Goodbye 11th and 7th grade!
🚨 ACT NOW: Keep Public $$$ in Public Schools! 🚨

Click Here (takes less than one minute): 
https://www.txpta.org/take-action

Tomorrow, March 11, the Texas House Committee on Public Education will hear HB 3. Let’s make it clear: Public money demands public accountability!

Texans have rejected vouchers since 1957—yet lawmakers are once again pushing them through with SB 2 and HB 3.

💰 Vouchers drain public school resources.
📉 They don’t improve student achievement.
❌ They aren’t about "parent choice"—private schools choose their students.
🏫 Texas parents already have school choice.

Governor Abbott is making vouchers a priority, but Texans are pushing back. Lawmakers are feeling the heat from voters who refuse to let public schools be undermined.

📲 Take 1 minute to make your voice heard NOW!

📷Jackson and Taylor are 2 of the 5.5 million reasons why Texas must keep public dollars in public schools. I was a product of public schools and had an amazing experience in a rural community with some of the best teachers. Change needs to happen, but taking away resources like these from schools is not especially when they ste already underfunded and our teachers’ morale is at an all time low. Communities work better together not when you separate them further apart. 

#studentsrworthit
#txptarally25
❣️…Pressing pause (for while)… Forgot wha ❣️…Pressing pause (for while)…

Forgot what it feels like to RELAX? The Sanford House Inn & Spa is ready to help you “Leave Your Worries Behind” with packages to treat yourself (or someone else) this Valentine’s Day! 

You “Can’t Help Falling in Love” with multiple options including a Hot-Stone Massage, Facials, Spa Manicure + Pedicure, Blowouts, Foot Reflexology and even lunch (with wine!

Just take a look at my face - I was able to “turn it off” (for a little while) and when I left my dry winter skin was just glowing - plus I learned how to make it stay that way from my very  knowledgeable esthetician! 

If you haven’t tried this gem in the middle of Arlington, you’re missing out! The Spa is just part of experience with its 12-room Inn and acclaimed 506 Restaurant (don’t sleep on the brunch), @thesanfordhouse is your little piece of heaven in the middle of downtown!

Think it’s only a little dream? It will be if you don’t make an appointment or nudge your loved one this is what you NEED for Valentine’s Day! (But don’t worry you can still get a great experience anytime!)

Link is in my stories for full list of Valentine’s Day packages! 

📍506 N. Center Street, Arlington, Texas
(Less than 1 mile from @attstadium)

#valentines #dfw #ArlingtonTx #sanfordhouse
Texas Bucket List ✔️= Johnson City Lights Thi Texas Bucket List ✔️= Johnson City Lights

This is the last weekend of the “Christmas lights you can see from space” from the twinkliest town in Texas, @visitjctx!

You have until Sunday…and while you’re there you should hit up @halterranchtx, my other new favorite.

#gofredtx #fredericksburgtx @visitfredtx @visitfredericksburgtx
FLASH GIVEAWAY: Just because Santa’s left the st FLASH GIVEAWAY: Just because Santa’s left the station doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate a Classic Christmas (and we have the keys!)

@ClassicChristmas has been extended until Sunday, Jan. 5, so if you haven’t been enjoy this VIP experience with ice skating and snow tubing! 

Giveaway includes 4 Tickets to Classic Christmas + 4 Premium pass upgrades plus: 
🎟️ Exclusive Express Lane entry to popular activities 
🎟️ $10 merch credit at the Classic Christmas Gift Shop  
🎟️ Coca-Cola Beverage

To enter:   
⭐️ Like this post  
⭐️ Comment what’s your favorite Christmas song 
⭐️ Tag a friend who would love the chance to come
⭐️ Share this story as an extra chance to win!

The giveaway is open now through December 30 at 11:59 pm and you’ll have December 31 - January 5, 2025 to enjoy the fun! Winner will be contacted by DM so profile must be public.  (Giveaway is not associate with Instagram/META.) 

#classicchristmas #cocacola #Arlingtontx #ArlingtonTexas #cocacola @enchantdallas #dfw #dfwevents #mamachallenge #dfwinfluencer #dallasinfluencer
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW // Trinity Falls Tour of WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW // Trinity Falls Tour of Trees

 🎄 Tour of Trees at Trinity Falls in McKinney
 🗓️ Now through Dec. 15 (so hurry up!) 

Know what’s better than touring homes? Touring homes with beautifully decorated Christmas trees! 

@trinityfallstx has brought both worlds together by inviting the public to explore their model homes with professionally- styled trees by @absholidaydecor at the 5th Annual Tour of Trees. While you marvel at the homes and the trees, take your photos in front of the trees for a chance to win $500 Amazon gift card.  

TIP: Don’t miss the tree collaboration with #RHOD @dandrasimmons - it’s “beeutiful!” 🐝 

This event is FREE, but registration is required. (Link is in stories or DM “Tree” for the link.)

 #touroftrees #trinityfalls #trinityfallstx #mckinney #mckinneytx #mckinneytexas
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS - Dallas Zoo WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS - Dallas Zoo Lights

🌲 Dallas Zoo
🗓️ Now - January 4 

Wonder what the @dallaszoo is like after dark? Once Upon a Wild Light comes alive with more than two million lights, 5:30 pm - 9 pm each night through January (so you can do this one with your family during the holiday break!) 

While many of the animals sleep, DinoLumia and DinoVision: a Jurassic adventure comes out to play, along with tons of holiday light photo opps and winter fun experiences. Enjoy catching up through self-guided, self-paced walk-through and spend time together while taking photos, which is ideal if you don’t like the holiday overload! And don’t sleep on Santa here, as he has a certain twinkle in his eye the kids always seem to like to catch up with (mom was even able to get a shot.) 

And for the even bigger kids over 21, Dallas Zoo: After Dark, goes wild on Thursday, Dec. 12, 6-9 PM with eats, treats and holiday drinks,live music, and games and other ways to get you in the holiday spirit! 

 @DallasZoo @ReliantEnergy #dallas #dallasholiday #dfwevents #dallaszoolights #holidays #zoo #dallastexas #mamachallenge
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Classic Ch WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Classic Christmas 

🌲 Coca Cola Classic Christmas - Choctaw Stadium in Arlington  
🗓️ Now through Dec. 29

Growing up @cocacola made the holidays magic, so when Coca Cola Classic rolled down the road, we had to go peek! Partnering with @enchantchristmas, the experience is part lights, part photo opps and for my kids mostly FOOD and overall a lot of fun - all washed down with (of course, a Coca Cola!) 

What was also great was a little walk through memory lane with Coke Christmas moments throughout the years - cue the polar bears and 18 wheeler!

Experience: 
🎅Market Square (definitely hit up the t-shirts - reading each one is half the fun)
🎅 Snow Tubing (always our favorite)Ice Skating (truth: we don’t skate, but it’s perfect people watching) 
🎅 Interactive Light up Dance Floor
🎅 @cinemark Theatre with holiday movies 
🎅 Coca-Cola Lounge - 21+ Cocktail experience (looked great to go with the girls)
🎅 Santa Landing

And of course, the Eatery! Eyes (and mouths) got big here with featured food from State Fair of Tex winners like The Drowning Tacos (SO GOOD we then ordered the Birria Tacos, too all cooked onsite and with all the sauce!) 

It’s the real thing!

#ClassicChristmas #ChoctawStadium #ArlingtonTx #CocaCola #Dallas #DFWEvents #DFWHoliday #DFWInfluencers
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Prairie Li WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Prairie Lights

🎄 Prairie Lights, Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie 
🗓️ Now through Dec. 31 (NYE) at 6 pm 

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without @prairielights- with a packed car with blankets, Santa hats, hot cocoa and coffee, and blasting holiday music while we sing them even louder.  

A stunning two-mile drive through light park complete with a midway stop - The Holiday Village with carnival rides, amazing bites (corndogs, funnel cakes and more, oh my!) And this year we were surprised with a new light tunnel, reimagined walk-through forest and new displays, great photo opps, gifts, visit with Santa, a lighted strollable forest.  It’s perfectly timed for food, fun and a little time on foot! 

PRO TIP: Go early, get tickets in advance and spring for the fast pass on the weekends and prime holiday times. And enjoy it and don’t try to rush it - enjoy it! That includes entry and the experience (so bathroom before you go, but thankfully there’s one at The Holiday Village and you get the corn dog.) 

#GoGrandGP @grandfungp #GrandFunGP #dfwinfluencer #Dallas #grandprairie #prairielights #dfw
Mariah may be singing “it’s time,” but there Mariah may be singing “it’s time,” but there are still some ways to give a little love to Thanksgiving with a little DIY (hello old pumpkins!) from Mama Challenge! 

So excited to see my friends over at Good Day Fox 4 today for this fun segment!
Peardon My Reach - this one’s on repeat. 🍐 # Peardon My Reach - this one’s on repeat. 🍐 
#nationalcoffeeday 

#cinncinati #kentucky #newport #coffee #fall
Arlington makes Taco Tuesday even better by celebr Arlington makes Taco Tuesday even better by celebrating all month long with its #SaveTheTacos campaign, now - September 30.

Try and vote for “Best Taco in Arlington” from 12 participants:

🌮 Fiesta Fusion Shrimp Taco at Boiling Tails Co.

🌮 The Hunter Taco at Cut & Bourbon

🌮 El Jefe at Grounds and Gold
 
🌮 Jamaican Me Crazy at M’Jays House of Smoke

🌮 Champiqueso at Papaya Mexican Grill

🌮 What the Falafel at Prince Lebanese Grill

🌮 He’s Just a Po Boy at R Bar and Grill 

🌮 Celestial Pork Belly Taco at Rocketbelly
 
🌮 House Special Barbacoa at Tic-Taco
 
🌮 The Chicken of Wall “Street” at TJ’s Catfish & Wings & BBQ

🌮 Baja Shrimp Taco with Mango Salsa at Tom’s Burgers & Grill
 
🌮 Wanna Taco ‘Bout It at Zack’s Bistro

We can tell you which one is our favorite, but take away all the fun to find your favorite! 

(Link to Vote in Stories!)

#ArlingtonTX #TacoTuesday #SavetheTacos
Always great to see a few guys who work together l Always great to see a few guys who work together like each other, too.

It’s even better when they’re Texas Rangers and  we’re celebrating Hall of Famer Adrían Beltré!
And just like that…11th grade and 7th grade (and And just like that…11th grade and 7th grade (and then they drove off!)
Follow the “red light” to this one-of-a-kind e Follow the “red light” to this one-of-a-kind experience in DFW. 🚨 

Named after Bangkok’s legendary road of entertainment of all kinds (Sukhumvit Soi 11), it seems fitting this newly imagined destination would find its home in Arlington’s Entertainment District. Anchoring the NEW @loewsarlington, @soycowboytx (also from @bbbutchers / @berghospitality) recently swung open the curtain this summer with an opening that made heads turn at every corner of this 12,000 sq. ft. of sexy space - with 3 unique bars, patio, viewable kitchen and dining room. 

To call it a “Pan Asian restaurant” doesn’t do it justice with its rich menu of fresh sushi, dim sum, caviar, truffle, lobster, waygu (all things you don’t find in the home of the margarita machine and ballpark nachos.) And if you’re looking for entertainment, just take a peek into the expansive kitchen and watch your rolls or omakase be made. The cocktail menu is just as extravagant with everything from mezcal to Japanese whisky, you’re eyes will be just as happy as your lips upon your first sip. 

While we experienced live music, fashion show and more as part of the opening, the cool smoke installation and the people-watching is definitely just part of the menu at Soy Cowboy you’ll have to explore. 

Food Nerd Note: SoyCowboy is on the upcoming @dfwrestaurantweek menu for just $39, so it’s a steal to take your own trip on a budget. (Make your reservation.)

Chon mean (or what we hope is Cheers in in Thai!)
NEWS ALERT: Dallas Food Nerd is now on TV! 📺 ( NEWS ALERT: Dallas Food Nerd is now on TV! 📺 
(Well today at least.)

Normally we’re always behind the smartphone camera, today we stepped out in front of the TV screen! The lovely folks at the new morning show Morning on Merit Street @morningonmeritstreet invited DFN for a little “roundtable” discussion about dining trends with our own Food Nerd @autumnreo / @mamachallenge and Bill Trevino of @craftandvinerestaurant CraftandVine along with hosts @dominiquesachse and @fanchonstinger for a little dishin’ on dining!

(If you’re able to take a look online, keep watching to see our new friend Pearl 🐶 and friends from @sweetpearlsicecream share their incredibly sweet story with @hungreehannah!) 

✔️ And just like we shared on the show, we want to know what you think! What do you think about Table Limits on reservations? Yes restaurants should have them or no way?
Round #2: Now he’s off for CIT at YMCA Camp Grad Round #2: Now he’s off for CIT at YMCA Camp Grady Spruce! It’s hard to separate them, but we’re excited he’s so happy to be ready for this adventure!
July 4th kicked a week early! 🎆 Love when the n July 4th kicked a week early! 🎆 Love when the neighborhood shines!
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