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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

Dallas’ Best Dressed Secret: Upscale Resale at Clothes Circuit

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Disclaimer: I was invited to celebrate the 30th anniversary at Clothes Circuit and received a gift card. However, I have already spent way more money than my gift card balance and plan to go back multiple times. 
As I approach the holidays, my buying habits change to only giving and no more getting for me.  Unfortunately, it’s also the same time of the year that your social calendar requires you to look your festive best. 


Ain’t it ironic that Timing and Budget do not place nicely with each other? 



However, I did find out they can compromise.

Let me introduce you to my new guiltless pleasure, Clothes Circuit. 


A 30-year-old tradition in the Park Cities, Clothes Circuit offers women one-of-kind upscale consignment fashion with clothing essentials, shoes, accessories, coats, bags, handbags and jewelry.  Owned by Irene Mylan, the Clothes Circuit gives you the labels you want to buy at prices you can actually afford (and still buy Christmas.) 


With more than 500 items are introduced to the floor daily bearing labels from the world’s top designers and upscale retailers such as Trina Turk, St. John, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Marni, Calvin Klein, Gucci, Burberry and more.  Clothes Circuit also carries everyday office-appropriate options from Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s, The Gap, and Cole Haan.

A woman with little time to spend on shopping for herself, I immediately spotted a huge number of Louis Vuitton handbags and suitcases. Followed by several pairs of Jimmy Choos I couldn’t wait to put on my feet. I was already reeled in now, so off to the racks to see if there was anything that I had to have. 

Of course, I found some. A lot of some. Somewhere between the devoted Tory Burch rack, a Michael Kors Black trench and lovely gold frock (holiday attire is only available from now until the end of the year), I couldn’t help from seeing all the fantastic labels that I just couldn’t believe was available AND I could consider buying it. 


While I’ve enjoyed my time there, I have to admit, I hope this new-found-fun doesn’t turn like my Starbucks. From just special occasions to now multiple times a day, I’m now a gold card carrier of the coffee giant. Thankfully, Clothes Circuit doesn’t have a frequent shopper card or the Christmas tree at my house might look bare. 

At least I’ll look good. 
Clothes Circuit
6105 Sherry Lane
Dallas, TX 75225
Get your inside look on inventory at Clothes Circuit on Instagram!




Kick it Up with Santa and his Reinsteer at the 4th Annual Camp Bowie Christmas, Dec. 14

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Cowtown becomes the North Pole for one day only on Saturday, Dec. 14 for the Camp Bowie Christmas! The whole family will enjoy a jolly-good time from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. with free, fun activities just for the holidays – especially when Santa and his Reinsteer make a special stop just for the event! 

Santa and his “Reinsteer” come to Camp Bowie Christmas on Dec. 14

Activities Include: 

  • Letters to Santa
  • Carnival games
  • Pony rides
  • Face painting
  • Holiday music
  • Balloon artist
  • Cake walk
The public is encouraged to bring a new toy donation for Toys for Tots to help spread holiday cheer. 


4th Annual Camp Bowie Christmas
Dec. 14, 2013, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. 
6323 block of Camp Bowie Blvd. 
Fort Worth, Texas 
Free



See you there!





Holiday Rundown: See the Lights at Grand Prairie’s Prairie Lights Powered by Gexa Energy

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Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post for the Prairie Lights. I go every year, but this year they thought I could share my experience why I return year after year!
 
Holiday already? 
 
Actually, I’ve been working on it for about two months and now it is time! We are kicking off this holiday with your run down of all the best holiday events you should visit here in DFW! 
First one up: Grand Prairie’s Prairie Lights Powered by Gexa Energy

 
With four million lights and two miles of lights and ending in the world’s longest light tunnel, the Prairie Lights Powered by Gexa Energy in Grand Prairie is not just a holiday light display, but a holiday light experience.  For the second year, Gexa Energy is the title sponsor and is powering the spectacular drive-through display and Holiday Village attractions.  
The 2013 drive includes hundreds of new displays. Stop half way and visit the Holiday Village for food, gifts, carnival rides, and Santa – at Prairie Lights through Monday, December 23 – and two Holiday Magic attractions: Holiday Magic Live! at the Light Show Theater and Lighted Walk-Through Forest.  Also, visitors will be able to visit the Gexa Energy display at Holiday Village for an opportunity to take a free photo commemorating their experience.
 
 
Admission includes entry into the exhibit which features hundreds of all-new displays, but a stop into Holiday Village with cocoa, cider and funnel cakes for purchase, and a visit with Santa. For a little extra moolah (like $7 for adults and $4 for kids), check out the Light Show 4D Theatre and the Lighted Walk-Through Forest for the ultimate holiday evening.  
It’s a big exhibit, so get ready for a big time at Prairie Lights.
 
 

 
Graphic from PrairieLights Facebook
 
Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie
Thursday, Nov. 28 through Tuesday, Dec. 31
Thanksgiving Night through New Year’s Eve
Sunday – Thursday: 6 – 9 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 6 – 10 p.m.
Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve: 6 – 10 p.m.
Lynn Creek Park
5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 7505
 
Cars: Mon. – Thurs: $20, Sat & Sun: $30 (other vehicle sizes more)
Holiday Magic Live!: $5 for adults and $3 for children.  
Holiday Magic Lights Walk-Through Forest: $3 adults and $2 children. 
Save on combo tickets for both – $7 for adults, $4 for children. 
There is a small charge for pictures made with Santa.
Carnival rides are free.  
 
 
And follow all the fun on social networks: 
https://twitter.com/PrairieLights

AND BEST OF ALL, YOU CAN WIN TICKETS TO SEE PRAIRIE LIGHTS!
 
 
 

 


Mixin Up Fall Flavors with Milagro Tequila {Recipe}

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There’s a lot more to appreciate about a margarita than whether its frozen or on the rocks. 

However, when you say tequila, most people either think of it as the main player in a margarita or their shot choice when they started a bad night at the bar. However, tequila is a complex and dignified spirit that, like wine, is highly regulated worldwide to ensure the quality of tequila is first-rate. 


I was so excited to be a part of a recent special mixology class at Bolsa Mercardo presented by tequila leader Milagro with brand ambassador Juan Pablo “JP” de Loera, a certifiable tequila expert (with two Tequila degrees from the University of Guadalajara in the Cultural and Technical development of Tequila). 

Providing us tools, fresh ingredients and a lot of guidance, we spent the evening mixing up tequila into delicious, unique cocktails featuring different styles of tequila to celebrate the fall. Paired with some amazing dishes from the beloved Bolsa Mercado, it was definitely a night to remember. 

One of my favorite parts of the evening was learning a little bit more about bitters from this guy (see below.) This wealth-of-knowledge is Ian Reilly, the creator of Dallas-based Temperance Bitters. While you can find him most days as the bar manager at Chino Chinatown, he has now developed a complex line of bitters with wild herbs, roots and barks. The one I had the privilege to taste was actually inspired by an experience he has at Dude, Sweet Chocolate. Mark my words, you’ll hear more from him soon as part of the Dallas culinary scene.

While most people have heard of bitters, they actually don’t have a clue what it is. Considered a “digestif,” bitters was created as a cure-all “medicine” in the early 1800s, however, now these alcoholic concotions are used for cooking and mostly for enhancing cocktails. I have to admit I’m a little more excited to use them now that I know what they are…

Now equipped and a little more educated, I was ready to get to mixing. 

Using fresh ingredients like cranberry juice, star of anise, and my new favorite, pumpkin syrup, we enjoyed cocktails that embodied the flavors of fall. And considering so many upcoming holidays, I know I will using these easy recipes to entertain and enjoy this season. 

 Click here to Dallas Food Nerd to get these featured recipes from Milagro. 


Thanks Milagro a wonderful evening and the perfect start to my favorite season, Autumn!

 Salud!










Twerking is OUT…Torqing is IN at FlyWheel Plano

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When it comes to working out, running just doesn’t cut it. However, there’s nothing more adrenaline-pumping for me than a spin class. 


I’ve done the spin circuit checking out all that DFW has and one that I keep reeling about is Flywheel. With two locations in DFW (Highland Park and Plano), this high-energy, upscale calorie-burning indoor cycling studio is exactly what this busy gal needs; a fun way to burn fat (oh, and it does), with awesome music that keeps me coming back for more. And for the tech-junkie in me, I can even log in to my account after class to see really what kind of work I had done during my ride. I mean how fascinating is that?

But now the experience has only gotten better with the addition of FlyBarre. Plano will be the first facility in Texas to implement FlyBarre, a total body sculpting class that blends the best of light weight training, dance, and core strengthening exercises. Unlike typical barre classes, FlyBarre incorporates more cardio with pulsating movements for a better and more effective workout. 

Photo credit: Flywheel Texas

That’s right – now you can work your legs, your tush and all those other places you don’t like to look at, with systematic movements that work each muscle group until you look like that photo of Jennifer Aniston you keep pinned on your board as motivation. And of course, in true Flywheel style, there’s awesome music to accompany the workout personally selected by the instructor. 

Photo credit: Flywheel Texas

Always keeping it fresh and fun this October, Flywheel will be presenting theme rides featuring favorite movies. So Disney fans should rejoice this Thursday, Oct. 4 for a Disney-inspired class at 6:30 PM. (Stay connected on their Facebook for all their movie themed rides this month.)


So are you ready to “Be Their Guest?” Then go ahead and get ready to fly like Peter Pan – especially since your first class is free at Flywheel. 

Flywheel Dallas
4252 Oaklawn Avenue
Dallas, TX 75219

5964 W Parker Rd., Suite 100
Plano, TX 75093

Flywheel Texas website 


Mother-Daughter Day at Daired’s Spa & Salon

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Disclaimer

This week’s Try-it Tuesday isn’t anything fitness this time, but I can promise the stylist that the fingers that had to do my hair got a real workout.


When you Google “Texas Big Hair,” it’s my headshot that comes up…we’ll maybe not on the front page, but believe me I have a big ole head of crazy hair. It’s coarse, curly and long – and when I blowdry it, I resemble something off a Tina Turner video. Needless to say, after 30 something years, finding someone to cut my hair isn’t always easy. 

Then I had my beautiful baby girl. While she looks a lot like her mama (God, bless her), she has her own big crazy hair to handle, although it’s actually very little like mine. She has the brown curls, but the similarities stop there. She has soft, fine hair with a daddy-gave-me-this hairline I have yet to figure out how to style. So most the time her hair is a little bit of a crazy mess and it’s definitely needed some trimming or something or someone to give me a little guidance on what to do with it. 

So with an upcoming appearance on TV and limited time to fit just one more thing in, I called Daireds Salon and Spa Pangea in Arlington. I was actually very surprised they actually accepted kids into a salon like Daireds…especially when you look at their services lists for salon, spa, cafe and boutique. But they gladly scheduled us both.

Sweet goodness, we’ll see how it goes. 

In my past life, I was privy to get the opportunity to enjoy some of the best spas in Vegas. And while Dallas is full of day spas, very few of them even begin to equal up the experience you get in LV. However, entering Daireds you definitely get a “posh spa” feeling – without the snob appeal. It’s interiors are beautiful, colorful and keep your eye wondering while you wait for your turn to hit the chair. I love the fountains both indoors and out. 

I had been prepared to have Taylor’s cut and then mine so I could assist with a two-year’s hair cut. Much to my surprise we had separate stylists and my little girl immediately aged 10 years as she was brought to the chair, put on a smock and began her first big-girl hair cut. Her stylist was awesome and dealt with all the stress from both mom and baby girl perfectly. Taylor actually wanted to go with her instead of mam. Unfortunately, I was getting my hair done, so the pictures aren’t so great, but you can see her sitting just like a little princess. I could already tell this would be the first of many experiences with us two gals. 

My stylist, George, had asked what I wanted to do with my hair, so of course, I responded with what any normal girl would say, “Make me look like Eva Mendes so Ryan Gosling will fall in love with me.” While he couldn’t take off the weight around my mid-section, he did take off the weight on my hair and gave it some life. I had bounce and style. And while I don’t look like Eva Mendes, I do resemble one of her commercials with all the hair-flipping I’ve been doing lately. So I guess that counts.
While I wouldn’t never want to call Daired’s a family salon and spa, there are definitely opportunities when you can bring in your kiddo for a hair cut or a special day and expect both of you to enjoy it. I had planned to keep her under control so I had reinforcements like goldfish crackers, juice and toys to keep her happy – at least until I snagged her a fresh chocolate chip cookie from the in-house cafe!

Now don’t think I’m about to start having baby girl for massages or facials any time soon, but it was nice to think that if the occasion presented itself, I have a place to bring her. Until then, mama will continue to check out the services like massages, nails or facials, until its her time to drive herself on over and make her own appointments (which could be anytime with this girl.)

Daired’s Salon & Spa Pangea
2400 West Interstate 20
Arlington, Texas 76017
(817) 465-9797 or metro (817) 467-9991
Website

Great Looking, Great Cooking: That’s What the MetroCooking Show is Made Of

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To-Do Thursdays: 

I have admitted that I’m a little obsessed with food. 

And in the past I have admitted my love for Paula Deen (I found four posts already where I mention her.) However, today I have another admission about the Deen family: it’s my little crush obsession on Bobby Deen. 


Yep, that’s right. There’s something to be said about a man that is as cute as he is, can cook all Southern-style, but knows how to the cut calories to keep your backside from looking like a rump roast. (I think we can all appreciate that, right?) So when my Bobby comes to Dallas for a little intimate cooking session with me this weekend, I thought it might be nice if I shared him with the rest of Dallas (at least for a little while to see what he can do with a skillet.) 

So consider this your personal invitation to join me, Bobby, his mama and a whole lotta great-cooking folks to come out again for the second annual MetroCooking Dallas on Saturday, Sept. 21 & Sunday, Sept. 22 at The Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center (yes, that’s the former Dallas Convention Center, but aren’t you proud Kay gotten something named after her.) This year’s extravaganza brings renowned television chefs, hundreds of specialty food exhibitors, cooking demonstrations and workshops. 

Graphic from MCESshow.com

If Bobby and Paula aren’t enough to whet your whistle, then consider coming out to see The Chew’s Jason Roberts; actress Debi Mazur (most notable on HBO’s Entourage) and her husband Gabriele Corcos from the Cooking Channel’s Extra Virgin; the Grill Sergeant Brad Turner and the Food Network’s Extreme Chef Terry French. Bobby’s also hosting The Bobby Deen BBQ & Photo Op on Saturday where attendees will enjoy recipes selected by Bobby and have their photo taken with him. Paula will swing by the BBQ for a quick “hey, y’all” as well. (Feel free to come tell me hi.)

While you’re there, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit more than 150 exhibitors so you can make sure to take something tasty home with you (husbands are much happier when you go gawk at other men if you bring home some sweet stuff for them like some of the pepper jelly you’ll find there.) 

MetroCooking Dallas 
Sept. 21 & 22, 2013
Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center

Tickets: $24.50, children ages 4-12 are $12.50 and children ages 4 and younger are free. 
Additional tickets are required for special events such as a VIP meet-and-greets with TV chefs, the one-day theater pass and entry to special lectures by the headliners.
http://www.metrocookingdallas.com/tickets

One more admission: Bobby isn’t really coming to Dallas to see me, but I’m sure once he meets me this weekend, he and his new Venezuelan wife would love to come on over for Sunday dinner with my husband and kids once the show is over.


You Spin Me Right Round, Baby with Terlingo Cycle

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Try-it Tuesdays:

Disclaimer: I was invited to experience Terlingo Cycle for a free class for purposes of this review. All comments shared here are my own. 

I haven’t done a Try-it Tuesday in quite a while since I have been on my Gladiator quest, so I’m excited I was able to amp it up this week with a new workout experience in Dallas. 



One Saturday AM, about six years ago, I borrowed my old man’s spin shoes and showed up to a class to see what all the buzz was about with spinning. Since I hated biking, I figured this spinning was going to be even worse since it was biking AND we weren’t going anywhere.

Oh, I was hooked from the get go. Now after visiting four distinctive spin styles, I can honestly say that just because they all have bikes and play music, they aren’t all the same. This is certainly the case with Terlingo Cycle, the new cycle studio led by celebrity-fitness guru/cycle teacher to Dallas’ elite, John Terlingo.



Described as “delivering a spiritual cardio party, where the lights are dimmed and music is pumping,” TGO is exactly that. Certainly targeting the young, beautiful and social set of Big D, driving up to the studio, the parking looked like a lot for a luxury car lot with Mercedes, BMWs and Land Rovers. Once in the white walls of the 2,200-square-foot-space (which are still in the middle of construction), I quickly dropped my bag in the cubes, put on my shoes (TGO will provide those in the future), and jumped on a 31 state-of-the-art 2013 A.C. Performance Plus Schwinn bike (state-of-the-art, people) on the back row. Soon the lights went down and the service began.


For the next 45 minutes in only the intimate flicker of the candlelight, the packed room of 30+ spinners worked to reach the recommended RPMs by our spiritual fitness leader, John. Our musical journey traveled us from Jay-Z and JT’s “Holygrail” all the way to Diana Ross and Lionel Richie’s “Endless Love.” While my playlist sit much heavier on the hip-hop or hard-rock side of things when I workout, I did find myself belting out a little Elton John (one of my absolute favorites) aloud while we coasted through our upper body arm workout.

Like visiting a friend’s church on Sunday morning, I enjoyed my experience and definitely got something from my visit, but I still prefer my own place of spin-workout worship. However, in the words of Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias,” …God doesn’t care where you go as long as you show up.”



Terlingo Cycle
3105 Reagan St. (Lemmon
Dallas, Texas 75219
214.520.RIDE
www.terlingocycle.com

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to a Special The Wizard of Oz Anniversary, Sept. 14

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If I could name off my top five movies of all time, The Wizard of Oz has made the list since I was a kid. Now I get the chance to share in a little fun with my munchkins with a special event this Saturday at North East Mall. 




The Simon Kidgits Club at North East Mall invites you to click your heels to celebrate at the free The Wizard of Oz’s 75th Anniversary event this Saturday, Sept. 14 from 1 – 3 p.m. in Center Court. Families can participate in a variety of The Wizard of Oz inspired activities to revel in the charming tradition of the yellow brick road including craft-making, coloring activities, cut-out character photo opportunities and exclusive movie-focused giveaways. Children will also receive a map which leads to various stations that feature viewings of The Wizard of Oz film clips. 

The event surrounds the anniversary of the beloved film with Warner Bros. relaunch of The Wizard of Oz 3D Sept. 20 in IMAX® 3D format and an exclusive one-week engagement in IMAX® theatres across North America.

North East Mall
The Wizard of Oz Anniversary Event
Sept. 14, 1- 3 p.m. 
Free

Click Your Heels (or your flip flops) for Fun, 

Sneak Peek: Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden

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Travel Tuesdays:

On September 27, the Dallas Arborteum will unveil one of the most beautiful destinations for learning, the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Overlooking picturesque White Rock Lake, this eight-acre “laboratory” houses 17 outdoor/indoor galleries designed around a key science theme outlined the state and national standards for life and earth science. 

Each of the more than 150 exhibits provide preschool and middle-school aged children to experience how life works on a whole-new level with larger-than-life exhibits and hands-on opportunities to discovery science in nature. While we all wait to bring our children to this amazing attraction later this month, I got a sneak peek at some of the park’s coolest features and what you can look forward to you upon your first visit. 

9-foot Ant and Plant Petting Zoo

“Plants are Alive:” Understanding Photosynthesis

“Texas Skywalk”

“Kaliedscope:”
Where Math, Science & Art Come Together (designed specifically for 4-6 graders)

“Pure Energy Gallery”

Areas are built throughout the park to congregate, rest and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scerenery overlooking White Rock Lake

A note before you go: 

Admission for the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden must be purchased online in advance to make your reservation. Also admission to the garden is separate from regular park tickets, so you’ll need to budget accordingly if you are visiting both parks. 

Strollers and wheelchairs can be used in the Children’s Garden, but wagons are not permitted. Also, you’ll want to bring hats and sunscreen during the warm months and bundle up accordingly in the colder parts of the year. 

Food items are served at the park for purchase so you can make a day of it – especially when the legendary “Autumn in the Arboretum” opens September 21 or any of the special “The Year of the Children” performances and activities. 

Have fun exploring and learning about nature!

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