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Moving to Texas? 3 Family Friendly Dallas Neighborhoods

March 9, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 21 Comments

This post is shared in partnership with Zillow.

If you live in Dallas, why did you choose to live where you live? Was it next to work? Close to family? Close to fun? Economically sound? Known as a family friendly neighborhood?

My first neighborhood in the DFW area I lived close to because work was near. Then as I got older (and married), we chose a location that was easily accessible to all of DFW. However, once you have kids (or are looking to in the future), you look at where you live in a whole new way. You begin look at school offerings, how well they rate with the state, how much they cost, and of course, how competitive it is to get in. Then you look at park areas, extracurricular activity offerings and above all, safety.

For our family, this transition wasn’t easy. And unfortunately, the location of my home wasn’t as great anymore because my priorities changed. So for those parents relocating to DFW or are looking at moving to a better neighborhood, here’s three neighborhoods you should look for homes or shop for apartments in one of these family friendly Dallas neighborhoods, according to Zillow.

Lake Highlands

Families find an ideal community in the Lake Highlands neighborhood, just northeast of downtown Dallas. The community includes rolling hills, numerous trees and access to White Rock Creek trails that connect several city parks. Lake Highlands is in close proximity to business centers in Dallas, Plano and Richardson for working parents. Elementary-aged students have access to top-rated public schools within the neighborhood. GreatSchools rates White Rock Elementary (public, PK-6) a 10 out of 10 for above average test scores within the state of Texas. Lake Highlands also offers a great education at nine-rated Moss Haven Elementary (public, K-6).

$ 365,000 – Current Lake Highlands Listing at Zillow.com

The median list price for homes in Lake Highlands is $63,000, significantly less than national costs ($210,000) and Dallas city ($259,999) prices. Alternatively, the median monthly rent in Lake Highlands is $1,136, more expensive than national rents ($1,350) or the greater city of Dallas ($1,248). In Dallas, the costs of renting balance the costs of buying in a very short time period of 1.1 years. So, parents planning to settle in Dallas longer than 1.1 years should consider buying, based on the breakeven horizon.

M Streets

Another family-friendly neighborhood for parents to consider is M Streets, north of downtown, but south of Lake Highlands. The M Streets community was established in the 1920s and maintains its charming character with sidewalks, mature trees and access to White Rock Lake. Parents appreciate extremely short commute times to the city. Education is highly rated in M Streets. William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted (public, 6-8) is ranked 10 and older students can attend Booker T. Washington HSPVA (public, 9-12) ranked nine. Just west of M Streets’ boarder is nine-ranked Sam Houston Elementary School (public, PK-5).

$339,000 – Current M-Streets Listing at Zillow.com

Home prices are rising in M Streets due to its community appeal. The median home list price is $374,900, higher than Lake Highlands, Dallas city and the U.S. Rents, too, are the steepest in M Streets at a median monthly price of $1,808.

Northwood Hills (Far North)

Northwood Hills is the farthest north community in Dallas, also labeled Far North. The neighborhood is just west of Richardson, TX and conveniently located for residents to work in Richardson and Plano business centers and attend high-quality Richardson schools. Families in Northwood Hills have access to wide open spaces with large lot sizes and old oak trees, perfect for kids to play. The community expanded over several decades incorporating numerous architectural styles and a charming community. Two 10-ranked schools are Bowie Elementary School (public, PK-6) and Brentfield Elementary School (public, K-6). Several more top-ranked schools are within close proximity in Richardson.

$375,000 Current Northwood Hills Listing at Zillow.com.

Parents relocating to Northwood Hills pay more than other Dallas residents and nationwide homebuyers, but less than M Streets homeowners. Northwood Hills’ median home list price is $349,000. Median monthly rents are highest in Northwood Hills, $2,186, compared to the previously mentioned locations.

Selecting the best community to raise a family is complex, but Dallas offers many family-friendly, academically-impressive and environmentally-grounded neighborhoods for cheerful childhoods.

Information and data provided by Zillow.

What’s is the most important priority for where you live?

The Skinny on MiniLuxe Dallas {Giveaway}

February 19, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

For me, getting my nails and toes done are much more than pretty polish.

It’s about taking time to breathe, to feel good about myself and just take care of me.

Unfortunately, that “me time” is often only found after kids’ bed times and when my eyelids finally fall heavy…and well after any nail place is still willing to buff, paint and polish or rib any hair from my eyebrows.

That is until now.

With the utmost in cleanliness, hours that work for me, and even an app to set my appointment, MiniLuxe is prepared to meet my needs and a whole lot more.

The first of 10 North Texas locations, MiniLuxe, in the West Village Shopping Center, is the NEW nail, waxing and brow salon changing the status quo of traditional nail salons. MiniLuxe is committed to eliminating or drastically reducing the use of toxic chemicals, redefining and elevating hygiene and improving client service standards and labor practices.

Every MiniLuxe location has a high-tech “Clean Lab” that uses ultrasonic debris removal and hospital-grade level sterilization for metal instruments. All non-metal components (nail files and buffers) are offered to the client or disposed for them after each use. MiniLuxe technicians never “double-dip” when it comes to waxing and specially designed jet-free pedicure tubs ensure foot-soaking water is never recirculated.

Any scrub or body cream product used paraben and sulfate free. All nail lacquer on the polish wall is at least 3-free (no formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalates or toluene), and their own MiniLuxe brand polish is 5-free (also excludes camphor and formaldehyde resin). Even the paint on the walls is handpicked to protect you from volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The MiniLuxe menu features nail, brow, waxing and lash services, in addition to private event services for birthdays, bridal shoszwers and weddings, corporate occasions and other special events:

Mani and Pedis
A wide variety of manicure and pedicure options including signature, gel and a simple color change. They also offer the TeenyLuxe mani or pedi for little ones under 10, as well as the Preggi Pedi, a safe and gentle full-service pedicure for moms-to-be.
Brows
Keep it clean with professional brow services performed by our expert shaping, waxing and threading specialists.
Waxing
Stay smooth with private and professional waxing available for bikini, face, underarm and more.
Lashes
Boost lash length and volume with extensions from MiniLuxe’s expert lash artists
For the Gents
Designed for the discerning gentleman, these manicures and pedicures use unscented lotion with the choice of a buff or polish.
Group Booking
They can accommodate private parties up to 20 people.

Ready to go like right now? MiniLuxe is offering one lucky MamaChallenge fan a mani-pedi package! Just enter now for your chance to experience the MiniLuxe Difference!

MiniLuxe

West Village
Monday – Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sundays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
www.MiniLuxe.com

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Modmarket: Smart. Happy. Healthy. Food. Now. in Dallas

January 27, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 8 Comments

When you think about what you want to eat shouldn’t that make you happy? But is it so much to ask for food that makes and keep you happy and healthy?

That’s the smart idea that brought Modmarket to Dallas/North Texas area (straight from Colorado) around a year ago to Flower Mound, then Plano and now to Dallas’ Preston Hollow neighborhood.

Our eating philosophy is quite straightforward, actually. We serve real food, which means using whole ingredients (things like whole grain flour, raw vegetables, fruits, legumes…you get the idea). We also incorporate real butter (gasp!) and quality meats and cheeses in our recipes. And we cook it all the way it was done hundreds of years ago – raw, grilled, or cooked in a stone hearth oven. We avoid things like preservatives and artificial sweeteners and keep our ingredient lists short and sweet. We make things from scratch, which is a total pain, but it makes our food taste better.

There’s a little bit of everything from breakfast to dinner and whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or a total carnivore, you’ll come out happy with any of the dishes they have. However, it’s the pizza, sandwiches and salads that make me the happiest. Here’s a few we felt the need to “research…”

: Corn on Pizza? With creme fraiche, bacon, spinach and fresh corn, you just need one bite to know this is the happy part of the menu…the healthy not as much, but today it will make you happy.

: I’m hungry and love this closeup photo of all the goodness that is this pizza. You could go gluten-free if you wanted. What does it matter when you have this on top?

: Mmmm…M’Rita: Fresh Mozzarella, Organic Red Sauce, Basil, Whole Grain Dough.

: Of course, we’re in Texas so we’d BBQ it: BBQ BBQ Sauce, Roasted Chicken, Red Onions, Green Onion, Pepper Jack Cheese, Cilantro, Whole Grain Dough

: Go Meaty with the FLAT IRON: Mixed Greens, Grilled Steak, Roasted Potato, Gorgonzola Cheese, Tomato, Caramelized Onion, Balsamic Vinaigrette

: Better to chew than gum with the Wintergreen: Spinach, Goat Cheese, Roasted Potato, Walnuts, Apple, Dates, Agave Herb Vinaigrette

: This basil chicken sandwich isn’t kidding. It’s

: Your calorie count of what you ate is included on your reciept.

Get the whole menu for your preferred Modmarket location online.

FLOWER MOUND
3651 Justin Road
Suite 100
Flower Mound, TX 75028
P. 469.312.5180

PLANO
8400 Preston Road
Suite 100
Plano, TX 75024
P. 469.573.6074

PRESTON HOLLOW
7949 Walnut Hill Lane
Suite 101
Dallas, TX 75230
Opening February 4

Ready to go get you some healthy, happy, fresh and fantastic food at Modmarket? One lucky winner wins $25 Gift Card to Modmarket.

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Six Tips for Families at The Marvel Experience

January 23, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Last week my super mama (AKA Gigi) flew into town for her birthday and to spend such much-needed time with the kiddos (and me.) We normally try to take the kids on some type of adventure so it was only fitting this time it was a REAL ADVENTURE at The Marvel Experience at Fair Park in Dallas.

I wasn’t sure what to expect at the traveling interactive show in Dallas, but images of Superman, Iron Man, The Green Hornet and the rest of the gang were a promise of a pretty good time!

From the moment we parked. there was excitement as you approach the domes that interconnected right up to the ticket area!

The Marvel Experience is an indoor event that occurs in several interactive, techno-enhanced domes linked together for separate activities you encounter as you complete your S.H.I.E.L.D. training.

After inputting our data to creating our credentials (they sent them by email) and putting on our arm bands, we were ready to go!

The first of the experience sets the stage like a comic book; what’s happening, who’s involved and what’s our mission as we go through The Marvel Experience. While there’s a lot happening with voices, lights, games and more, for younger kids they either will love the excitement or be a little timid as they assess what is going on.

Even if you don’t have any Marvel character background, you’ll still have a great time. And if you’re a comic-book junkie, you don’t want to miss this new-age way to enjoy your favorite superheroes. I’ll admit, my favorite time was the last dome – where you are part of a uber-cool interactive movie experience complete with moving chairs and motion so you are a part of the action!

Six Tips for Families at The Marvel Experience

Bring the following with you: $10 parking gives you close access to the entrance, so it’s worth it.

Make sure you’ve full tummies before you go or have money to purchase snacks. However, these are snacks – not a meal and nothing makes anything anything a poor time than when you are hungry!

To ensure crowd control, you will need to choose a specific entry time to purchase your tickets (if in advance.) I suggest the earlier the better if you have kids because even a streamlined experience getting through The Marvel Experience is at least 2.5 – 3 hour experience. Also, be strategic with your timing and don’t let nap time fall right in the middle of waiting-in-line times. (More than likely you’ll have lines for some of the more interactive games like climbing Spider Man’s Wall or Flying like Iron Man.)

Try not to bring any extras with you like a big bag, stroller, etc. It will make things easier for you to get around the rooms. Make sure to read the FAQs for more info on what to bring and what not to bring!

Grab a map/program. It will help you plan out what makes more sense for you and your family.

Be ready to have fun. This isn’t something you are just bringing the kids to do and you watch. It’s about getting into the fun yourself and seeing how technology is changing how we interact with the world and our favorite superheroes.

Now until Jan. 31. Visit The Marvel Experience for ticket info and more.

Eggcellent: How to Make the Best Eggs

January 20, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 14 Comments

Want to make eggcellent eggs? It’s not as hard as you thing with these tips on how to make the best eggs!

Want to find out if you’re compatible with someone or get a group of people talking?

Ask them how they like their eggs.

I polled a big group of my friends and we got all kinds of answers and passionate ones at that.

Photo credit: Popsugar

Eggs are SO Good for You

Eggs are among the most nutritious foods on the planet. With Vitamin A, Vitamin B5, B12, B2, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, Calcium, Zinc, Omega 3s and a whole nest of other healthy things your body needs. All from this simple oval that is only around 75 calories and high in protein. Now while eggs have cholesterol, it’s the HDL they raise which is the GOOD cholesterol, which lower the risk of heart disease, stroke and other various issues.

They also are very fulfilling! In one study I read of 30 overweight women, eating eggs instead of bagels for breakfast increased feelings of fullness and made them automatically eat fewer calories for the next 36 hours.

Difference Between Egg Types

One of the biggest questions asked is what is the difference between brown eggs and white eggs. I could give you a really long explanation…but long story short – one is brown, one is white.

However that’s not the only way you can slice and dice your eggs. Nowadays, the store has many options for your egg needs including:

Cage Free
Organic
Vegetarian
Free-Range
Pasteurized

Ways to Cook Eggs

Hard Boiled: An egg cooked in boiling water with the shell intact. Hard boiled eggs are cooked through until both the whites and yolk have completely set.
Omelet (Omelette): Eggs that have been beaten and then cooked quickly in a frying pan. Omelets are often folded over a filling of cheese, vegetables, meat, or a combination of items.
Over Easy: A fried egg that is flipped and cooked yolk side down only long enough to create a film over the top of the yolk, leaving the center of the yolk liquid.
Over Hard: A fried egg that is flipped and cooked yolk side down until the yolk has completely cooked through.
Poached: Eggs that have been removed from their shell and then cooked in a hot liquid. The cooking liquid can be water, broth, or any sauce. Poaching in water is often used as a way to cook eggs without having to use extra fat. Poaching in broth or sauce adds flavor to the cooked egg.
Scrambled: Raw egg whites and yolks are beaten together and then cooked in a skillet. The beaten egg mixture is gently agitated as it sets to create a curdled texture.
Shirred: Eggs that have been baked in a ramekin (sometimes with butter, cream or other sauces) until the whites have set but the yolk is still liquid.
Soft Boiled: An egg cooked in boiling water with the shell intact. Soft-boiled eggs are cooked only to the point at which the whites are set but the yolk is still liquid.
Sunny Side Up: A fried egg that is never flipped or cooked yolk side down. The whites cook until completely or partially set while the yolk remains liquid.
Eggs Benedict: An English muffin topped with ham or bacon, a poached egg and hollandaise sauce.

Tips to Make the Perfect Egg Every Time

Now here’s where it gets really good! You’ve probably fried, boiled, or scrambled an egg, but it didn’t work out the way you intended. While an egg seems so easy to cook, it’s all in the details. I mean there’s a reason most people enjoy eggs benedict when they go out to eat and not at home, right?

1. How to Boil an Egg: Ice water, old eggs and 12 minutes.

2. How to Poach an Egg: Fresh eggs and a mesh strainer not vinegar or salt make these eggs perfect.

3. How to Scramble an Egg: Key here is not to stir them too much.

4. How to Fry an Egg: Medium heat to evenly cook the egg and make sure to not bust the yolk!

5. How to Bake and Egg…in an Avocado!

Baked Eggs in Avocado

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 ripe avocados
2 fresh eggs
1/8 teaspoon pepper
fresh herbs

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
Slice the avocados in half, and take out the pit. Scoop out enough from the avocado to fit egg.
Place the avocados in a small baking dish.
Crack an egg into each avocado half.
Place in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the eggs set.
Remove from oven then season.

Other Great Ways to Eggs

Thanksgiving Leftovers English Muffins

Hatch Chile and Chorizo Breakfast Pie

Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Mini Quiches

Go Super Hero with The Marvel Experience Dallas

January 9, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 9 Comments

As a mom of a 6-year-old boy, we’re all about the superheroes. Which is why it’s no surprised we’ll be at the front of the line at Fair Park in Dallas on Jan. 15…

The Marvel Experience is a first-of-its-kind, hyper-reality attraction that covers over two acres and encompasses seven colossal Domes, a life-size Avengers Quinjet, the world’s only 360-degree, 3-D stereoscopic full-Dome attraction and a state-of-the-art 4-D motion ride.

As agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. in training, guests of The Marvel Experience will swing with Spider-Man, smash with Hulk, fly with Iron Man and more, all in preparation for an epic battle alongside Marvel’s biggest Super Heroes in a fight against Red Skull, M.O.D.O.K. and an army of evil Adaptoids. The Marvel Experience incorporates next-generation interactive technology including augmented reality, multi-person gaming and RFID progress tracking so you can see yourself in action. Everything happens with bleeding-edge technology and advanced computer animation. There’s nothing else like it. Not only does the audience get to join the adventure, in the end they may even become heroes themselves.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit The Marvel Experience www.themarvelexperiencetour.com.

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Winter Break Learning Fun at the Perot Museum

December 17, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 7 Comments

Are you fretting what you will be doing with the kids after Christmas until school opens again in the new year? Never fear! There are many things to do in Big D including experiencing a whole new learning journey at the Perot Museum! Just take a look at some of the fun happening at this amazing museum – perfect for all ages! In celebration of its birthday and to thank visitors for two wonderful years, the Museum is offering a free hot cocoa with each purchase of a dessert in the Museum Café (offer valid Dec. 1 – Jan. 4).

Special Exhibit: 2theXtreme: MathAlive! (through Jan. 4, 2015)
Snowboard through a mountain pass, design your own video game, attempt an Ollie on a virtual skateboard, master engineer a modern city and capture a snapshot of yourself in 360-degrees. Then challenge a friend in a mountain bike race, jump into a ‘binary dance party,’ or program and control Curiosity, NASA’s next Mars rover. Those are just a few of the approximately 40 unique and interactive experiences offered up as this traveling exhibition brings to life the real math behind what kids love most – video games, sports, fashion, music, robotics and more. Innovative technologies and hands-on activities create interactive and immersive experiences that spark a passion for math and provide a formula for fun. 2theXtreme: MathAlive! is free for museum members and requires a surcharge along with purchase of general exhibits admission for non-members.

Robotics
By popular demand, the robot arena in the Texas Instruments Engineering and Innovation Hall will get a fresh, expanded look come Dec. 6. The robotic stations will increase from 4 to 16, allowing more visitors, young and old, to “play and learn” a wider variety of activities including challenges and competitions, which will be refreshed on a regular basis. The Museum also is introducing new robot types, including those with wheels, tank tracks and grippers. Four stations will be dedicated to the hugely popular robot programming, and four preschooler stations will have lower, 24-inch tables to engage the youngest Einsteins in age-appropriate activities. An additional eight stations will give visitors an opportunity to compete in challenge-based activities such as “Freeze Tag” and “Clean Sweep.”

: The Perot looks unique on the outside, but the inside of this Dallas museum is even more interesting. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: Kids of all ages enjoy the interesting exhibits and showcases. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: The Perot appeals to all your senses to make science fun. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo.)

: Kids (and adults) can get hands on with science at the Perot. (photo credit: Autumn Reo.)

: MathAlive! gives you a chance to experience math in whole new way (photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: Discover math in a whole new way at Math ALIVE! at the Perot Museum. (photo credit: Autumn Reo.)

: Get your neck out learning about dinos!

: Explore Space at the Perot. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: You can’t see how beautiful this stone is, but you will be even more surprised by its size. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: See Dallas in a whole new way at the Children’s Museum within the Perot. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: With each step on these stairs is part of the musical scale. (photo credit: Autumn Reo)

: Even the roof of the Perot has a learning moment.

: Get a closeup look at the Dallsa skyline while going up the escalators to one of the four floors of the Perot. (Photo credit: Autumn Reo)

3D films in The Hoglund Foundation Theater, a National Geographic Experience
Don your 3D glasses and get ready for adventure in the Perot Museum’s 297-seat state-of-the-art digital theater. To view trailers and the film schedule, go to perotmuseum.org.)

SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Live Winter Wonderland Demonstrations (daily Dec. 20 – Jan. 5)
Beginning Dec. 20, as part of the Perot Museum’s 2nd birthday celebration, Museum educators will roll-out special seasonal demonstrations that will run throughout the holiday season.

From live shows with cold habitat animals from the Dallas Zoo, to experiments with super-cold liquid nitrogen, the Perot Museum takes birthday festivities to a winter wonderland extreme:

Hear a winter tale read aloud at Story Time, daily 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. (NOTE: Dec. 24 11:30 a.m. only)
Animal Adventures with the Dallas Zoo, Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 1 and 2 p.m.
Fruit DNA Extraction, daily 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Extreme Freeze Liquid Nitrogen Demonstrations, daily 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.(NOTE: Dec. 24 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. and no programs on Jan. 5)
Snow: Polymer Science, daily Dec. 26 – Jan. 3 at 5 p.m.
Science on the Spot featuring wintry demonstrations, daily 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

New Year Sleepover (Jan. 3 from 7:30 p.m.-8:30 a.m.)
Go behind the scenes at the Perot Museum with after-hours access to intriguing exhibits, exclusive demonstrations and hands-on discovery. And ring in 2015 with a special New Year’s film, plus count down the hours with New Year’s-themed crafts and science experiments. Every child gets a small winter plush bear toy to take home. A late-night snack and light breakfast round out the experience. Designed especially for children ages 6-12, sleepovers are $50 per child and $35 per adult chaperone. Registration closes Dec. 30.

EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS
NOTE: Special hours for Perot Museum members are from 8:30-10 a.m. Mondays through
Saturdays and from 10 a.m.-noon Sundays. The Museum is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Wednesday, Dec. 24 (10 a.m.-3 p.m.)
Friday, Dec. 26, and Saturday, Dec. 27 (10 a.m.-7 p.m.)
Sunday, Dec. 28 (noon – 7 p.m.)
Monday, Dec. 29 – Tuesday, Dec. 30 (10 a.m.-7 p.m.)
Wednesday, Dec. 31 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Thursday, Jan. 1 (10 a.m.-7 p.m.)
Friday, Jan. 2, and Saturday, Jan. 3 (10 a.m.-7 p.m.)

TICKET PRICES
$15 for adults (18-64)
$12 for youth (12-17) and seniors (65+)
$10 for children (2-11)
Free for children under 2.
General exhibit hall admission is always free for members.

Admission to the theater is $5 for a short film (20 minutes) and $8 for a long film (40 minutes) for adults, students, seniors and children. For members, admission to the theater is $5 (short film) and $6 (long film). All children under 2 are free.

2theXtreme: MathAlive! is free for members. Non-members pay a surcharge along with purchase of general exhibits admission for a total admission cost of $21 for adults (18-64), $17 for youth (12-17) and seniors (65+), and $15 for children (2-11). All children under 2 are free.

Parking – Pricing is $8 per car when paid on-site (at box office, ticket kiosks or upon exiting the lot) and $3 for Museum members (at box office or lobby kiosk only).

Perot Museum
2201 N. Field Street
Dallas, Texas
214-428-5555
perotmuseum.org

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Holiday Fun for Everyone at the Hilton Anatole’s Sparkle

December 7, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 Comments

During the holidays is a great time for the family together and enjoy all the fun things to see and do – especially in Big D.

We have light amazing displays, a Santa that shoots fireworks as he backflips on an ice rink, roller coasters with snow sledding, and even millions of pounds of ice carved just like Frosty the Snowman. While they are all fun, there’s something to be said with all the work you go to for a few minutes of fun. Then there’s always the issue with trying to figure out what “thing” is going to make everyone happy all at the same place. And if you have little ones, waiting in line doesn’t make a good start to any outing.

This weekend our family was able to enjoy a holiday staycation to enjoy SPARKLE, courtesy of the Hilton Anatole. The experience proved to be a great solution to getting the whole family in the holiday spirit! Sparkle “Christmas at the Anatole” gives families exactly what they need: holiday fun for everyone in one place and all indoors!

Best of all, you don’t have to spend the night to enjoy the magic of Sparkle! You can come to the event everyday with a new agenda of fun including:

Indoor Ice Skating Rink (skates included)
More Than 1.2 Million Holiday Lights
Nothing Bundt Cakes Bundlets
Light Shows every half hour
Santa’s Hilltop Slide
Velcro Stocking Jump Wall
Live Holiday Shows from Le Theatre De Marionette
Storytelling by Rudolph
Bounce House Village
Food Trucks (prices additional)
Kids’ Crafts
Face Painting ($3)
Live Entertainment
Hockey Clinics for Kids
Origami by “Paper for Water”
Pictures with Santa (Saturdays & Sundays ONLY from 6-9 pm) – $10 each
Breakfast with Santa (Saturdays & Sundays ONLY)!

For the complete daily schedule of all the fun (including pet friendly days, yuletide yoga and even some karaoke), click here.

The kids couldn’t have been happier all afternoon and then to snuggle up in our room for a family movie night in our Christmas PJs! Then we woke up to enjoy Breakfast with the Santa! (To follow all of our fun at Sparkle at the Hilton Anatole, follow MAMACHALLENGE on INSTAGRAM!

A photo posted by Mama Challenge (@autumnreo) on Dec 12, 2014 at 2:38pm PST

SPECIALS NOT TO MISS: On weekdays, you can get one free kid’s admission ticket to #SparkleAtTheAnatole for each new, unwrapped toy donation. And right now, until Dec. 15, you can get 50% off your ticket to Sparkle when you use the code: MAMACHALLENGE! And you can also win a family four-pack to Sparkle on mamachallenge.com! (see below to enter!)

SPARKLE! TICKET PRICING (excludes tax)

Adults 13- 64 $19.95 plus tax

Children 4 – 12 & Seniors 65+ $15.95 plus tax

Children 3 & Under Free

***Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent in Sparkle at all times.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA (Price includes breakfast with Santa, Sparkle! tickets and applicable sales tax)

Adults 13- 64 $39 Children 4 – 12 & Seniors 65+ $31 Children 3 & Under Free

Children 4 – 12 & Seniors 65+ $31Children 3 & Under Free

Children 3 & Under Free

SPARKLE HOT LINE AND BREAKFAST WITH SANTA RESERVATIONS: 214-761-7814 or samantha.waugh@hilton.com.

www.sparkleattheanatole.com

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While Sparkle runs until Sunday, Jan. 4, 2015, you shouldn’t let this experience pass you by!

His Hot List: Ford Unveils New 2015 F-150 and Mustang

November 25, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

You know when they say opposites attract? I mean really polar opposites?

Well that’s me and my hubs to a T.

I’m the kind of girl that likes change and he’s the kind that’s ok to eat the same thing every day without any complaint.

That is until you talk cars.

Then it’s a whole different story.

When I met my husband in college he drove a hot dark green Ford Mustang. It wasn’t his first either; he’d had a couple Mustangs.

A few months later when we started dating, he traded it in for a Ford truck…

Then a year later, he traded it in for another Ford truck.

When we had the first kiddo, he had a reason to getting an even bigger Ford truck.

Are you getting the pattern? Yes, my husband loves him a Ford and we get them often.

For Ford, he’s like a walking commercial since he’s now had more than 12 Ford vehicles and can tell you what’s are his favorite features and what areas he would like to see changes.

So with the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 coming out, his truly will be on the front line to see how his next truck is going to drive. And considering the Ford F-150 is America’s best-selling truck for 37 consecutive years and according to Ford, “this will be the most anticipated truck in Ford history,” you can bet he won’t be the only one.

The new 2015 F-150 delivers an impressive combination of power, capability and efficiency – from advanced materials that improve durability and inhibit corrosion, to faster processors that enhance driving performance, to breakthrough cargo management and towing solutions.

Several groundbreaking new productivity features debut in the 2015 F-150 like:

360-degree camera view uses exterior cameras to create a bird’s-eye view of the truck to help the driver park, maneuver in tight spots and navigate down narrow trails
Integrated loading ramps enable easy loading of ATVs, motorcycles and mowers
BoxLink™ is a combination of metal brackets and custom cleats used to secure a variety of accessories in the cargo box – from ramps to storage bins to bed dividers
Trailer hitch assist is a new rear view camera feature that adds a dynamic line based on steering wheel angle in the display to help customers line up truck and trailer without requiring a spotter or having to get out of the vehicle
Smart trailer tow module uses an all-new wiring harness that helps identify and inform the driver of potential trailer connectivity issues, burned or unlit trailer marker lamps, and brake light and trailer battery faults
Remote tailgate allows for the tailgate to be locked, unlocked and released with the key fob – eliminating manual locking and increasing convenience and security. The tailgate also is damped, dropping down, hands-free, to a flat position when opened
400-watt, 110-volt power outlets in the cab, allowing drivers to easily charge corded tools, batteries or mobile devices on-site or while driving
Latest engine technology in an available all-new, efficient 2.7-liter EcoBoost®engine that features extremely high output and lightweight design
Nnext-generation tailgate step is now fully integrated inside the tailgate and virtually invisible when not in use· New 8-inch LCD productivity screen in the instrument panel includes tabbed navigation pages – from fuel economy to towing tips – and the ability to create a customized home screen for customers to access their most frequently used pages in one place
LED lighting embedded in the walls of the cargo box brightly illuminates the box interior to help customers quickly find tools or other items
Rear under-seat storage in F-150 Super and Crew cabs provides hidden storage for valuables. One storage bin is located underneath the rear seat
Deployable boxside step is now available for the short 5.5-foot box

I may not be looking for all of those features in my car (which total disclaimer is a 2013 Ford Explorer), but I know many men who live in their trucks that do – and you probably do too.

Ford is offering a free test drive of the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 before the truck is available in showrooms as it visits 38 markets across the U.S. North Texas stops are scheduled for Dec. 2 – 6.

McCoy’s Building Supply: Cleburne – 12/2/14

McCoy’s Building Supply: Corsicana – 12/3/14

McCoy’s Building Supply: Terrell – 12/4/14

McCoy’s Building Supply: Gainesville – 12/5/14

American Eagle-Harley Davidson: Corinth – 12/6/14

Consumers can register and schedule their test drive at F150drive.com. Walk-up participation is encouraged.

Well the F-150 won’t be the only thing on his wish list this year. We get a double-whammy with the debut of the ultra-sleek, ultra-smooth 2015 Ford Mustang.

It is a beautiful car as history has shown, but Ford’s given her a little beauty treatment as well as some more smart features that are sure to make this vehicle on the hot list of every one.

The Mustang is the first car to offer four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines that produces at least 300 horsepower. With more powertrain options to choose from, there is a Mustang to fit any lifestyle. The 3.7-liter V6 and upgraded 5.0-liter V8 are joined by an all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang.

Several key design features define the all-new Mustang, including:

A lower, wider stance with a reduction in roof height, and wider rear fenders and track
The return of Mustang fastback with a sleeker profile enabled by more steeply sloped windshield and rear glass
Three-dimensional, tri-bar taillamps with sequential turn signals
Contemporary execution of the signature shark-bite front fascia and trapezoidal grille

While hunting season might be hard to handle in a Ford Mustang, I know he’ll be admiring this baby and counting down the days when one day we can look at a three-car garage.

Take a look at more new Mustang features at http://www.ford.com/cars/mustang.

Easy Ways to Teach Kids to be Giving and Grateful

November 22, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 25 Comments

At this time of the year we are reminded to give thanks for the good things in our lives. It’s also a great time to teach kids to be giving and grateful.

Here are a number of ideas this holiday as well as throughout the year to teach kids to give back. Many of these suggestions don’t require a lot of work, are fun and can help create an even stronger bond as a family unit.

Start the Conversation

Teaching the basics of giving with Saving and Giving Jars
The premise is simple: have two jars – one designated for saving and the other for giving. Depending on your child’s allowance or age, you can have them allocate a certain amount of money each time they put money in the jar. For example $1 means 90 cents for saving and then 10 cents for giving.

Santa Letters
Writing Santa letters makes a great way to talk about giving to kids less fortunate than your own. I have a great free printable for Santa letters you can print off and start the conversation today.

Make a Thankful Tree
With two kids under the age of 7, it seems like they wouldn’t be able to understand that not everyone lives in a home with a family and served three meals every day. But by asking them what things they are grateful for can be a great conversation starter. This tree is easy to put together and I’ve seen several versions of them – some are drawn on paper, some are painted with handprints, but for this one, we gather sticks from outdoors and talked about what we were thankful for. When I explained that some kids don’t have their favorite named toy or even a mama, they begin to ask questions and are primed for talking about the importance of giving back.

“I am Thankful…”at Galleria Dallas
“I AM THANKFUL FOR…” PRESENTED BY THE EURASIAN ASSOCIATION OF DFW
Level 2, Martin Lawrence Galleries
The exhibit displays the meaning of Thanksgiving among children of different cultures, with works grouped in different age categories: Under 5 years, 5-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-14 years, and 15-18 years.
Opens today – Dec. 7

http://www.galleriadallas.com

No Matter their Age, Kids Can Help to Give

Crafting for Good

Crafts are actually a great way to help children learn about giving. For instance, they can create a place mats or a centerpiece to put in with your Pantry Box for Metrocrest Services. On the website they provide a list of what they need and you can purchase them, put in the placemats and they will stock them in their pantry or during the holidays, they will pack them with the holiday food deliveries. If you prefer, you can actually attend a Family Night and for an hour the organization will do a family craft for 30 minutes and the family can stock the pantry with donated goods.

http://www.metrocrestservices.org

Collecting Everyday Goods

Toilet paper, paper towels, toothpaste – these are all things we take for granted. But at the Arlington Life Shelter, individuals and families that don’t have anywhere to live are provided these basics necessities to help them sleep somewhere warm and receive a warm meal while getting the skills they needs to get back out there. They always post their current needs list online and on their billboard, so you can have the kids put together the box and on your designated day, make the drop off.

http://arlingtonlifeshelter.org

Be on Their Level

Adopt an Angel and Toys for Tots
A tradition for many families and organizations at the holiday, you can get in the sprit of giving on a level kids can really understand since you are giving to kids in your child’s age range. You can find Adopt an Angel trees in shopping centers throughout DFW, but some families are so busy they can’t get to the tree! So they’ve made it easy and you now can adopt a kid online, make your purchase and then drop of them off at a designated locations. And Toys for Tots, which FOX 4 is a sponsor of, is a phenomenal organization led by the US Marines. The process gives your kids a hands-on opportunity to buy the gifts they want for the age they want and then drop them off for distribution.

http://dfwangeltree.org

http://dfwtoysfortots.org

Host a Giving Party
Instead of having guests to a holiday party or for your child’s birthday party, ask guests to bring gifts to give to a charity your child chooses. For instance, you could hold a PJ Party and ask guests to give blankets or teddy bears. Many organizations need both of those for patients at children’s hospitals like Children’s Health. Once year we asked for socks for teens and they were given to kids in the hospital so they had something fun to keep their feet warm and are fun!

Teaching Good Means Being Good

Be a Good Example of Giving
Remember kids learn by watching so be a good example. December 2 is #Giving Tuesday, a global initiative to raise money for nonprofits #GivingTuesday is a global giving campaign.Your generous donations will not only allow us to continue fulfilling wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses and provide them an experience of a lifetime at Give Kids The World, but they will also count twice! An anonymous donor will match every donation made on #GivingTuesday, up to $20,000.

www.gktw.org/givingtuesday (This donation page will only be accessible on December 2nd and will be open for 24 hours. )

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Easy Ways to Teach Kids to be Giving and Grateful

At this time of the year we are reminded to give thanks for the good things in our lives. It’s also a great time to teach kids to be giving and grateful.

Start the Conversation

http://www.galleriadallas.com

No Matter their Age, Kids Can Help to Give

Be on Their Level

Teaching Good Means Being Good

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