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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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Experience Oz in a Whole New Way at Fantasy in Sand

May 21, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Arlington may be a sports fans dream, but May 22 – August 23, Globe Life Park becomes the Land of Oz – in a whole new way…in Sand.

Fantasy in Sand featuring The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a unique family experience that tells the story of characters we all know so well — Dorothy, Toto, the Wizard, the Wicked Witch of the West, the Scarecrow and more — through intricately carved sand sculptures, some of which are 20 feet tall.

Wizard-of-Oz

Photo Credit: Fantasy in the Sand


Currently, internationally renowned sand sculptors are carving 3 million pounds on sand into 16 scenes from L. Frank Baum’s famous book, including the Cowardly Lion, the Flying Monkeys and the Emerald City of Oz.

The finale is called America the Beautiful and will feature the Lincoln Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore and other American landmarks. The experience concludes with a Texas-sized sandbox, which is 2,000 square feet, where children can create their own sand sculptures while parents watch from an observation deck. This is the largest indoor sandbox in Texas.

Fantasy-in-the-Sand-Arlington

Fantasy in Sand is enclosed in an enormous air-conditioned tent for the guests’ comfort and includes the necessary amenities: parking, accessibility for strollers, ADA compliance for wheelchairs, restrooms and a snack bar.

More information about the event, including tickets and hours of operation, is available a www.FantasyInSand.com. The experience will stay open late on weekend nights when the Texas Rangers play home games so baseball fans may enjoy both events while in Arlington.

The Emerald City awaits you this weekend beginning May 22nd. Tickets now available on our website. #sand #sandsational #startelegram #arlingtonvoice #GlobeLifePark #OzinArlington

A photo posted by Fantasy in Sand (@fantasy_in_sand) on May 20, 2015 at 7:27pm PDT

And MamaChallenge.com is getting a sneak peek at what to expect tomorrow May 21 before the exhibit opens to the public, so make sure to follow me on Instagram for this exclusive look! 

Four New Reasons to Visit the Dallas Zoo Now {Giveaway}

May 17, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 27 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Here’s your real disclaimer: some of the pictures included here are too cute for words.

The Dallas Zoo has four new reasons for you to come visit, but remember to bring a gift.


There must be something in the water at the Dallas Zoo. The first baby penguin born at the Dallas Zoo, the baby African penguin was born to Tazo and Tulip April 15. But don’t get ready to party with this penguin right yet, as the new penguin family is living offsite at the Don Glendenning Penguin Cove. But as soon as this yet-to-be-named bird gets his or her feathers to be able to swim at the zoo, you’ll be invited to the welcome home event.

Dallas-Zoo-Penguin

Photo courtesy: Dallas Zoo Facebook

If your”Oh, that’s so Cute” meter hasn’t already started to move off the charts, it will with this “tall tale.” Like the Royal family’s recent birth watch, the Animal Planet kept us all connected the world was able to welcome this sweet edition to the Dallas Zoo family via live stream on April 10. Days later, 50,000 fans casted their vote to name the baby Kipenzi, which is Swahili for loved one. Now you say hello personally to Kipenzi and mother, Katie at the zoo. 

Dallas-Zoo-Giraffe

Photo Credit: Dallas Zoo Pinterest

Born March 20 at the Dallas Zoo, this baby blue-eyed ocelot is considered only one of maybe 50 left of the native-Texas species.  Like humans this sweetie’s eyes will change from this cobalt blue to a dark brown and joins his father Joaquin and his mother Milagre in the ocelot habitat with a fellow bobcat.

Dallas-Zoo-Ocelot

Photo Credit: Dallas Zoo

While these little babies are too cute, you can’t call anything cute or little about the arrival of the newest exhibit at the Dallas Zoo.  The “Giants of Jurrasic,” open now until Sept. 7, features more than 25 dinosaurs, a special DinoSOAR wildlife show, the theater experience of Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live, and more. Free with zoo admission, your dinosaur lover will be able to get hands-on learning about dinosaurs in a whole new way. Get the details on the exhibit and daily hours here. 

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Photo Credit: Dallas Zoo Facebook

Share your personal congratulations to these fine mamas and make your kids think you’re the coolest parent ever with a day at the Dallas Zoo!

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We’re giving away FOUR tickets to the Dallas Zoo! 

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Smart Home: Four Must-Haves to Automate Your Home

May 15, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 11 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Don’t you wish everything ran on a remote?

Well…actually nowadays most everything does and I love it. Home automation is no longer something we wish for and somehow can’t believe we ever did without it! It’s the real deal after a trip to your favorite home-everything store, a few steps to get your connected and you’ll have a smart home.


Home-Automation-NFM

You know the commercial where the mom and dad are sitting on vacation and realized the kids went home and left all the lights and water running. Then with a quick touch of the phone, the dad is able to turn it all off and resecure the house? As a parent that video is REAL and so is remembering all the times you forgot if you turned off the iron, locked the door or wished you turned on the air conditioner on high before you get home in the middle of a sweltering August day in Texas.

It’s absolutely genius that now all your need is a few of these amazing smart devices and a little help from Siri to never have to turn on the fan or flip a switch ever again. Ready to go shopping at Nebraska Furniture Mart, but don’t know where to start?

Here’s Five Must-Haves to Automate Your Home

Air Conditioner/Heater
Featured: Nest Learning Thermostat

Nest

In the south, we are good friends with our thermostat. With freezing temps in the winter and blazing days in the summer, the temperature in your house is more about keeping your family healthy than it is about comfort. And that saying, “don’t like the weather in Texas, just stay around a little while, it”ll change…” it’s totally true. So when you wish you could turn on the heater because the temps have changed 30 degrees since you left the house, with the help of thermostat controls like Nest, it can happen even if your 100 miles away. Nest auto-schedule “learns” your family’s temperature preferences and programs itself in just a week, but also helps keep energy consumption low when there’s no one home.

Lightbulbs
Featured: AwoX StriimLIGHT Color Bulb with 13w Bluetooth Speaker

AwoX-Bluetooth-Light

Lightbulbs aren’t just for illuminating the room anymore; they also become your new stereo system, setting your mood for a party, studytime or when you need to play music to get your child to sleep, but you still want to have your phone with you. While there are several on the market, I loved the AwoX StriimLIGHT Color Bulb with 13w Bluetooth Speaker so much that I recommended it for a stocking stuffer for the whole family. So easy to install, you just place the bulb in one of your regular light sockets and screw it in. Yep, that easy. It provides enough light to keep the room lit as well as immediately synced with my smartphone. I was instantly listening to Rob Thomas broadcasted throughout the room. There’s no need for a bluetooth speaker in every room, just install one of these and viola, you have a new stereo system and multipurpose lightbulb.

Smoke Alarm 
Featured: Insteon Smoke Alarm and Bridge Kit

First-Alert-Smoke

I cannot count on my hands how many times I wondered if I turned off the stove, the coffee pot or my curling iron and thought I could be burning the house down as we speak. No need to worry with the new age of smoke alarms like  Insteon Smoke Alarm and Bridge Kit.  Now you can get a text or email in case of smoke, carbon monoxide, low battery, all clear, or error messages and it can also be linked to lights or other Insteon devices to turn on lights instantly in the event of an alert.

The Full-Meal Deal 
Featured: Insteon Start Here Home Automation Starter Kit

Insteon-Home-Automation-Kit

Ready to automate the whole house? With the Insteon Start Here Home Automation Starter Kit, just connect the HUB to your existing home router and start adding devices for total home connectivity.  This kit includes the HUB and two dimmers modules which allow you to remotely control one or more lights, regulate the thermostat, monitor water leaks, and with the smoke alarm bridge, you’ll even know if there’s a fire when you’re not home.


 

It is as easy as just flipping a switch to make your home safer, more comfortable and cost efficient.

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Get Whisked Away: Family Spa Day at Spa Castle {Giveaway}

May 12, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Disclaimer When I think of a spa day it NEVER has included one thought about the kids except who was watching them while I was there…however, in Carrollton, right outside of Dallas, there’s not only a day spa that you will love with three floors committed to recharging  your mind, body and spirit,  but a spa that’s created amenities for the kids. Spa Castle Dallas is a urban spa experience for the whole family. Spa Castle is the name of the fantasyland spa property right off George Bush Tollway and Josey Lane. For just $35 bucks you can live it up with the girls for a daycation just like you’d have at a resort (swim up pool with a bartender included), or just a quiet weekend with added Eastern-style spa services  and an overnight stay at the on-premise hotel, or even a fun getaway for the family for a relaxing day of water fun and dining. Pools-at-Spa-Castle Too good to be true? That’s probably why they called it a castle…I mean that is where we all think magical fairy tales come alive, right? But I have evidence it’s the real deal and one of my favorite Dallas places to spend a few hours (or maybe a few days if I’m lucky). With hydrotherapy pools, saunas, dining, spas and more, you will find relaxation at Spa Castle. Spa Castle is the perfect combination of traditional Asian saunas & luxurious European water spas. However, I did need a little 101 to figure out what to do once I entered the doors. But the very friendly staff led me in the right direction and ensured I was enjoying myself all day long. (You didn’t expect me to bring the kids this time, right? A mom has to scope things out first…)

Just a few things to know:

  • Wristband: After claiming my magical “wristband” at the front desk,  I was able to open and lock my locker, check in for spa appointments and even order a meal with my a show of my wrist (that’s attached to your credit card.)
  • Shoes: Because this is a spa built on Eastern practices, you’ll be leaving your shoes literally at the door in a special shoes only locker upon arrival. Then yoou will have another locker for your other clothes and belongings. You won’t be wearing shoes all day, but don’t worry, you’ll see them clean the floors more times in the day than I did my entire kitchen last year.
  • Clothes: You’ll be provided a spa outfit while you’re there of what seems like pink scrubs. You will wear those in the spa areas, a bathing suit in the pool areas and if you choose nothing in the hot tubs. But don’t worry, no pressure!
  • Pace Yourself: Like Disney World, you just can’t do everything in one day. Just enjoy things a little at a time and remember, that at only $35 you can afford to come back again and again.
  • Tips: Your gratuity is included in your spa service, so you really don’t have anything to worry about!

Featured as part of your $35-day pass, Spa Castle’s signature Sauna Valley features ten different saunas that help promote relaxation and detoxification. Each room has a different theme and purpose for you to find the best service for exactly what your body needs. From 24-karat gold, almost 200-degree temperatures and even a room that Elsa would be envious of, they’ve options if you have the time. I didn’t get to try them all out, but I was able to sneak in most of them for just long enough to take a shot. To learn more about the benefits of the sauanas, visit the website. 

Welcome to Sauna Valley
Roman Sauna
Golden Pyramid

The door way to Color Therapy
LED Sauna
Infrared Lounge

Far-Infrared Sauna
Far-Infrared Sauna
Loess Tower

Loess Tower
Is Elsa Here?
Ice Land

Charcoal Tower
Need a break? Sit down and rest awhile, recharge your phone or get a bite from the sushi or coffee car!


In addition to my sauna time, I also snuck in  a few spa services (there are tons to choose from) including  the luxurious caviar facial. I wasn’t sure exactly what caviar was doing on my face, but whatever it was, it did it well since my skin has felt and looked radiant every since. My facial also included a little shoulder massage as well so after I was done, I was almost too relaxed to do anything else…However, I didn’t want to leave Spa Castle without seeing a few of the places I planned to enjoy the next time when I bring the girls next month for a resort-type day only a few moments from home! IMG_2720

Outdoor Mystic Pool

Experience the same refreshing rush of water and pressure treatment on your head, shoulders, and back under the “deep mountain” waterfall. The evening sets an enchanting setting, enhanced by panoramic views to add to the peaceful ambiance of the pool area. IMG_2719

Hinoki Bath

Modeled after the famous Japanese baths of the past, the Hinoki Bath is built with ancient pine woods aged over 300 years old. Combined with minerals, the fragrant aroma of pine surrounds you as soon as you step into the heated waters. (It’s hot!) There’s so much to see and do at Spa Castle, I know I’ll be coming back with friends, the family and hopefully a few times just me. And just because you aren’t in Texas, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Spa Castle with several locations in the U.S. visit the website for more info.

Do you want to enjoy a Spa Castle experience?

You can win a day pass (value $35!) Just share by commenting below what has been your biggest “MAMACHALLENGE” lately and you can win!

Clink and Click: Enter the Scarborough Renaissance Festival Photography Contest

May 8, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

DisclaimerIf you’re into fairies, castles, rides, turkey legs, mead, and mermaids, we’ve got a place for you! Each spring outside of Waxahachie (south of Dallas), the castle grounds open up for us common folks to explore the world of medieval fun at Scarborough Renaissance Festival. Celebrating 35 years of 16th century fun for the whole family, experience armored jousts, Birds of Prey, 21 entertainment stages, crafts, artisan demonstrations and more, now until May 25.

Jackson-Reo-RenFest-Mamachallenge

Last year was our first experience of stepping back into time to cross paths with the king, queen and all their underlings throughout the village. I learned my lessons about what to bring and what not to bring, so this year we’re coming “armed” and ready to further enjoy the fun that so many have been doing for more than three decades with their “Friends of the Faire” pass.


RenFest-Tower-of-Yorkshire

The SR Festival or “RenFest” is a photographer’s dream with tons of opportunities to click memorable shots worth valuable social media space and even more so for mounting on the wall. To recognize those perfect photos, each year patrons submit hundreds of photos for the Tournament of Images. The tournament winners receive passes to the faire and prizes from the souvenir shoppe and have their photos posted online as well as recognized in the program.  If you have a good eye and love the festival, read the rules and bring your camera to the faire.

While I don’t know if these are Tournament-worthy, here was my favorite!

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Make sure you get out to the Scarborough Festival before the end of the season!

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Scarborough Renaissance Festival is open 10:00 am – 7:00 pm, rain or shine, Saturdays and Sundays now through May 25, 2015. Located in Waxahachie, Scarborough Renaissance Festival® is just 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex on FM 66 off of I-35E at exit 399A. From Waco, the Festival is only 60 minutes north off I- 35E at exit 399. Upcoming special events include “Legends of the Seas Weekend” May 16 & 17 with costume contests, a pirate initiation ceremony and pirate games; and “Final Knights Weekend” the final weekend of the Festival May 23, 24 & 25 with a special Veterans tribute on Memorial Day Monday. Admission is $25 for adults and $10 for children, ages 5-12. Children age 4 and under are admitted free. Tickets are available on-line and discount tickets can be purchased at Kroger stores.

 

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Night Out

May 7, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Calvin Klein. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. #IC #euphoria4moms

I don’t intentionally mean not to make time for date night, it just happens. We’ll it actually doesn’t happen and that’s the problem.

We both know that it’s important to spend time together away from the kids to concentrate on celebrating parts of our marriage. But it seems so counterintuitive that the thing that is supposed to be a treat – something to look forward to that doesn’t require me to cook, clean or work, but instead have a good time, shouldn’t be so much work to make it happen. Finding the time, a babysitter, what to wear, what to do, where to go, and making sure things are good for the kids, etc. is a lot to coordinate and that’s just to get out the door. But I made a commitment that this time we wouldn’t let it just pass by on the calendar, we would go, experience something new, put on some and do it when we never go out – a weekday.

Now through Mother's Day, buy a large spray of euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance collection at Macy's and Dillard's and you'll also receive a beautiful live orchid with your purchase.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, we would celebrate with a night on the town to FINALLY go to one of the “bucket list” restaurants we had been eyeing, Clark Food & Wood Co. And I would make it a point to dress up, wear something new, instead of something I had owned for years, and feel good about myself – you know, like you would have done when you first started dating and a date was a really big deal.

Say More This Mother's Day with Euphoria Calvin Klein

Ironically, when I went to look for a dress at, I was surrounded by young girls, having their makeup done, their hair done and beautiful dresses…it was prom season and I was smack dab in the middle of the beauty portion. However, it kinda added to my preparation period to and now I also wanted to make our night memorable, too. While our evening didn’t call for sequins, I wanted something when I slipped it on it made me feel alluring, sexy and make my husband drool – just a little. A few sprays of euphoria Calvin Klein, with its exotic florals and hints of mahogany wood, was exactly the right touch to make this day the “every day special occasion.”

Clark-Food-and-Wine-Co

The night at Clark Food and Wine Co. on Lower Greenville was ideal with the perfect patio temperature to enjoy eating outdoors and taking our time to exploring the menu that’s designed for sharing. Starting with craft cocktails including roasted bone marrow with truffle, grilled Texas Bobwhite quail, and a mind-blowing charcuterie with a rabbit and pork pate that I couldn’t stop eating and a buttermilk bleu cheese with honeycomb combo that could be dessert within itself.

Clark-Food-and-Wine

We tried things we don’t normally eat and best of all, there were even options for those are gluten-sensitive so we didn’t have to make big exceptions to the dining experience. Kinda like a song, the evening was right, the food was right and the delicious Sangiovese  we enjoyed down to the last drop made the night one for the books. While we bit into the bites of housemade picked and caper berries, we actually had the opportunity to talk about things that weren’t work or kid related, but us – the ones we met when we first met and decided to create a family together.

[Tweet “Celebrate #MothersDay w/ a Night Out! @Dillards, @clarkfoodwineco & #euphoria4moms #IC #ad”]

While I’ll love the Mother’s Day cards the kids will give me on Sunday with the breakfast of Pop Tarts they’ll make, this Mother’s Day it was nice to celebrate a night out with the other part of me that made me a mother…my husband.

Euphoria-Mothers-Day

Make your Mother’s Day mean more when euphoria Calvin Klein.  Now through Mother’s Day, purchase a large spray from the euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance collection at and receive a complimentary live orchid.


Urgent Care For Kids at Your Door in an Hour

May 6, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 18 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimerEver been thrown up on by your kid?

Funny how it never happens during the day when the pediatrician’s office is open, but rather after hours when you have little to no option to take them anywhere.  AND after cleaning them up, you up and everything else up, you then get to go to some dodgy after hours care place and wait your turn all while holding your sick kid in your arms in the middle of the night. Not to mention if you have more than one kid and a single parent, you’re loading up the whole gang for the trip – and we aren’t talking about a vacation.

PediaQ


Those are the days (and nights, actually) that put the CHALLENGE in www.mamachallenge.com.

But we’ve got a solution and it comes at the click of your finger.  Already in North Dallas and expanding into other areas of DFW soon, PediaQ is the on-demand urgent kids care house call service that comes to you and your kiddo. Founded and funded in October 2014 by Jon O’Sullivan, PediaQ is the first and only on-demand service focused solely on the pediatric market, 4 pm – 8 am on weekdays and 24 hours per day on weekends.

When your child is in need of urgent care, with PediaQ you have the comfort and security of knowing that your child has the highest quality care at your fingertips.  By using the app, you not only request an appointment, but are able to see the credentials and reviews of the staff, have your medical information safely and securely shared with your pediatrician and have a pediatric nurse practitioner at your door in about an hour. Plus electronically connect to your pharmacy for fast, convenient prescriptions!

PediaQ-benefits

At around $150 for standard hours and $250 for after hours care, many insurance providers may reimburse you for your PediaQ visit. And HSA credit card may be used to pay for the services.

Not to mention they won’t judge you if you are covered in vomit. Just don’t reach out to shake their hand when they come to the door.

And for a limited time, PediaQ is offering a special discount to try their service. (Make sure to confirm the discount to ensure it’s still valid.)

Pedia-Q is the app you

For more information visit their website (www.pediaq.care) and follow them on Facebook.

Why Is SoFabUOTR So Fab?

May 5, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

I am writing this post in exchange for a discounted conference ticket; however, all opinions are mine and mine alone. #SoFabUOTR #cbias

So the other day a friend asked me, “What is SoFabU on the Road?” and “why are you going?”

Interesting question, but even more interesting is the answer.


Just like when you went to school, it was to become more educated. However, for most people who blog, there wasn’t a “school,” it something we continue to learn every day…making each post a little better by studying our peers. At SoFabU, I get to learn from my peers and from the brands that want me to work with them – all in one place.

That’s just for starters why I’m going to SoFabU on the Road – Dallas on May 30 at the Gaylord Texan.

SoFabUOTR

That and a whole lot more.

Sponsored by Johnny Rockets, Müller, Kraft and iBlog, SoFabUOTR is a unique event that allows influencers to take advantage of educational opportunities that will help set them a part from the rest. SoFabU on the Road features hands-on, interactive sessions for influencers to implement what they’re learning on the spot. The sessions are paired with fun city-specific adventures where attendees get to practice their newly learned skills. Just check out the packed schedule
for this one-day conference!

Events are open to all bloggers and influencers!

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Featured Sessions

How to Use Social Media to Drive Blog Traffic

Attendees will learn the secrets of using social media platforms {Facebook, twitter, google plus, pinterest, and instagram} to build an audience and drive traffic to their site. Whether a brand new blogger or a proficient user of social media, you’ll learn tips and tricks for branding your social media platforms, finding your voice, increasing social media followers, enhancing engagement, and forming a lasting social media strategy and presence on all platforms.

Best of all my friend Randi from Dukes and Duchesses is the speaker! 

Randi Dukes is the founder and creator of Dukes and Duchesses, a craft and DIY blog that has grown from a hobby into a business over the last few years. Randi loves creating sponsored content for companies and has worked with many large brands including Better Homes and Gardens, Michaels, and The Home Depot. Randi is passionate about using social media to promote and monetize her site and has developed strategies that have brought consistent growth in her social media platforms and steady, increasing traffic to her site. She has over half a million combined followers on her various social media channels. Randi has previously spoken at Haven Conference and loves sharing with and encouraging other bloggers. Regularly featured on sites such as Today, Country Living, and Buzzfeed, Randi enjoys inspiring people with simple seasonal and everyday projects. Randi lives in Dallas with her husband, five kids, and a very dirty dog.

Gaylord Chefs Tour with Photography/Video instruction

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The Gaylord Texan is known for it’s world-class restaurants that offer everything from barbecue to Tex-Mex. SoFabU on the Road attendees will be given an exclusive tour through three of their award-winning restaurants to learn from three of their top chefs. From recipe creation, to food trends, to creative ways to style and plate food, we’ll learn from the best of the best! Each group will by lead by a photography or video pro to continue the education as they highlight tips and tricks for making your content and photos/videos stand out. During the walk between venues, we’ll explore this resort’s 4.5 acres of lush indoor gardens and winding waterways. (Note: the walking will be minimal but please let us know if you are concerned about this so we can make adjustments.) We’re going to learn so much from these amazing chefs and top-notch photography/video pros!

About SoFabU on the Road

Meet me at Dallas or one of these other SoFabUOTR events:

May – Dallas
June – NYC
July – Chicago
Aug. – Minneapolis
Sept. – Atlanta
Oct. – Bentonville

For more information, please visit SoFabUOTR visit http://ontheroad.socialfabric.us.

 

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Elotes from R Bar & Grill

May 4, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Margaritas make the short list from one of my favoritest things EVER.

Second to that is tacos.

But what else makes up the perfect Mexican meal?


Besides rice and beans, most people don’t think Mexican food has any other side options. However, if you’ve eaten corn in a cup or more fondly referred to elotes, you know that corn added with a couple of key ingredients makes the closest thing to a pot of gold that I know of. Golden goodness.

R-Bar-Entrance-620x432

I recently discovered R Bar & Grill just around the corner from my house and can’t believe what I’ve been missing. While my experience found so many new favorites, the elotes had me reeling. So much so that I asked to meet the Chef Marcelo Vasquez to tell him how good they were. And then he said “these are so easy that anyone can do it.”

Then he gave me the recipe. And I’m giving it to you. That’s what you get when you talk to a blogger, right?

Elotes at R Bar Grill

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Elotes from R Bar & Grill


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Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ounces fresh chared corn
  • 2 ounces heavy cream
  • 1.5 ounces cotija cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 fresh lime

Instructions

  1. In a sauteed pan place the corn and heavy cream over medium flame and let it heat well.
  2. Add the cotija cheese and melted the cheese slowly.
  3. Put the half of fresh lime and grilled both sides. Place all the corn mix in a serving bowl and place the lime on top as garnish..

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

R Bar is also hosting a Mother’s Day four-course special! Celebrate the special woman in your life by treating her to an unforgettable meal at R Bar & Grill on Mother’s Day. R Bar & Grill offers guests a set menu including an appetizer, choice of soup or salad, two entrée options and a decadent amaretto crepe for dessert to top off this special day.

Mother’s Day Menu

Appetizer
Scallops Tamales with Corn & Basil Puree, Chili Oil
Salad or Soup
Garden Mix Greens with Pickle Onions, Blue Cheese Crostini
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Honey & whole Grain Mustard Vinaigrette

Or

Parmesan & Lentil with Jimmy’s Sausage & Fried Croutons

Entrees
Texas Surf & Turf
Slow Braised Short Rib and Roasted Lobster Tail
Wild Mushroom Beer Sauce & Garlic Clarified Butter
Jalapeno Cheddar Au Gratin & Green Beans with Fried Shallots

Or

Grilled Beef Tenderloin and Shrimp
Red Wine Vegetable Glaze & Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Jalapeno Cheddar Au Gratin & Green Bean with Fried Shallots

Dessert
Amaretto Crepes Filled with Caramel and Wild Berries with Vanilla Ice Cream

This four-Course Dinner option is available for $48.00 per person and will be served from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Reservations to dine are recommended and can be made by calling the restaurant at 817.640.4711.

About R Bar & Grill

Located at Hilton Arlington at 2401 E Lamar Blvd, R Bar is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. – 2a.m. on Friday and Saturday. For reservations and more information, please call 817-640-3322 or visit www.rbarandgrilltx.com.

Get Walked All Over and Like it: Relax with Felax

April 30, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer
Relax. You should do it. Even if some Frankie in Hollywood says don’t.

However, it’s not a word most of us get to hear, do or even really understand what it means, right?

For me, when I relax, I don’t feel like I’m managing things at work, at home or anywhere…However, my “management style” has now caused the rest of my body to look and feel like something out of “Hunchback of Notre Dame.” (And just in case yours looks the same; it’s not supposed to look that way no matter how long you’ve looked like it.)


Funny enough it’s not always a long day at the spa that can help you to “get right.” Actually it’s amazing what 30 minutes of “felaxing” can do for you and your well being.

Massage-Felax-MamaChallenge

Massage Felax specializes in the ancient art of reflexology and other massage modalities including Swedish, Prenatal, Lomi Lomi, Deep Tissue, Sports, Trigger Point and Ashiatsu.

Massage-Felax-Reflexology

Each reflexologist has been through a rigorous reflexology traning program to ensure proper technique of the 50 reflex points. Whether you’ve got only 30 minutes for a reflexology session at just $29 (lunch break) or you can spare 60 minutes for a $79 massage, Felax creates the comfortable environment you need, but also allows you to be able to work through it (with my mobile phone still in hand for a few email check ins while I was checked out!)

Massage-Felax-MamaChallenge-MothersDay

While I enjoyed loved the ample attention to my feet (I always say you have to be good to the things that keep you upright),  it’s the ashiatsu (don’t forget the A in that word) that really will take you to a new world. Like a member of Cirque de Soleil, my Massage Felax therapist leaped onto the table I was laying on, grabbed the bars above her head, and began to really work through the pressure I was holding in my back. It was an intense experience, but if you deal with stress in your shoulders, back or neck, you know that the ongoing pain from that is much worse. She worked through my trouble areas and I began to be able to work through mine, too.

Felax-Ashiatsu-MamaChallenge

Not up for trying things alone, bring a friend and the spouse. Special features such as a couple’s therapy room is available at the Park Cities and Dyer Street locations and oxygen therapy, ashiatsu massage and accommodations for group spa treatments are offered at the Addison venue. If you have the time, it’s totally worth the $85 seventy minute signature combo (reflexology and full body massage) for the complete head-to-toe treatment. And now until May 29, to honor our veterans, Felax is offering a free massage when you call and make an appointment and show your VA card.

This is the happy ending that they really meant for us all to have.

Locations

Addison: 4943 Beltline Road; 972.385.7109; Mon.-Sat. 10:30 am – 9:30 pm, Sun. 11 am – 8 pm
Allen: 824 W Stacy Rd., Suite 101; 469.500.9913; Mon.- Sat. 10 am – 8 pm, Sun. 10 am – 6 pm
Dallas: 6911 Dyer St.; 469.941.4388; Mon.- Sat. 10 am – 8 pm, Sun. 11 am – 6 pm
Park Cities: 8611 Hillcrest Avenue; 214.363.3529; Mon.- Sat. 10 am – 6 pm, Sun. 11 am – 6 pm

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Get REAL Solutions for REAL Parents that Work! From recipes, things to do, parenting tips (and fails) and how to cope with everything in between, she'll share all the best ways to take on your (mama) challenges... http://www.mamachallenge.com/about/

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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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