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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Holiday Wine Picks for Everyone at Every Price Point

December 19, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

For most of us, a gifted bottle of wine will cover our bases with everyone from our girlfriends, co-workers, teachers and family members. However, don’t just go pick a wine based on its cute label or name or gift just want you like to drink. Consider the flavor profile based on that person’s personality as well as the price point your pocket book can handle.

Sonoma-County-Fall

Photo Credit

Rather than make it difficult to choose the “perfect” bottle of wine, consider “visiting” a region like Sonoma County when gifting. One of the premier wine regions in the world, Sonoma County is home to more than 400 wineries and after a recent media event where I learned more about the region, it’s really an untapped area as compared to it’s more notable neighbor, Napa. And it will make you look really smart about your wine skills!


Price Point: $25.00 or less
For the dog walkers, doctors and teachers that impact everyday life, the following wines offer big flavor with a moderate price tag and are great additions to any holiday table:

Gundlach Bundschu 2013 Sonoma Coast, Estate DRY Gewurztraminer – $19.99
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
Aromas of allspice, jasmine and citrus burst from the bottle upon cork removal of the Estate DRY Gewurztraminer. The wine offers tastes of pink grapefruit, white nectarine, navel orange, lychee and star fruit. Recommended as an alternative white wine for those who want to try something other than chardonnay or sauvignon blanc, this wine pairs well with Thanksgiving turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce. Available for purchase online at www.gunbun.com and at select retail stores across the country.

Merisi Pinot Gris 2013 – $24.00
Merisi Wines
With gentle flavors of peach and umami, the Merisi Pinot Gris 2013 offers body and complexity while sitting lightly on the palate and finishing crisp and dry. Filled with aromas of pineapple, sea fennel, white flowers and key lime, the additional barrel aging gives this wine enough complexity and body to hold up to a meal (think turkey), perfect for those white wine drinkers around the holidays. With only 147 cases produced annually, it makes for a rare find.

2013 Taft Street Russian River Valley Pinot Noir – $25.00
Taft Street Winery
This 2013 Pinot Noir pairs very soft, mature tannins with amazing ripe fruit flavors. Aromas of ripe plum, cola and cherry tobacco lead into flavors of black cherry, blueberry, and mocha. Nicely integrated French Oak flavors add to the complexity of this Russian River Valley wine. This silky and seductive pinot pairs best with seafood. Available for purchase online at www.taftstreetwinery.com and at select retail stores across the country.

2012 Smoke & Mirrors Red Blend SRP – $25.00
Jeff Cohn Cellars
The Smoke & Mirrors Red Blend has a youthful, vibrant aroma. There are deep layers of Herbs de Provence, cream soda, and violets, quickly followed by a bright vivacious acidity that splashes across the palate. For holiday meals, this wine’s up front red fruit and underlying herbaceous spice pair well with turkey, cranberry sauce and sage infused stuffing. The blend is comprised of 39% Zinfandel, 22% Syrah, 19% Grenache, 8% Alicante Bouschet, 4% Petite Sirah, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Mourvèdre including 40% whole cluster fermentation.

Price Point: $26.00-$50.00
Co-workers, significant other’s parents and neighbors will all be equally satisfied and wooed when being served or gifted the following wines. Each carries more than enough charm to impress without breaking the bank.

2012 Estate Malbec Zanzi Curve Vines – $28.00
J. Rickards Winery
The complex blend of fruity and spicy flavors delivered by this new-world style Malbec lends itself well to pairing with main courses and brisk winter evenings near the fireplace. A juicy California take on this popular varietal, the blend is comprised of 98% Malbec, 2% Petite Sirah, Alexander Valley. The wine is aged for 15 months in 25% new French oak barrels. Available for purchase online at www.jrwines.com and at select retail stores throughout Sonoma County.

2013 Migration Russian River Valley Chardonnay – $32.00
Duckhorn Vineyards
Displaying all of the layered complexity and lush concentration that make great Chardonnays from the Russian River Valley so sought-after, this enticing wine has gorgeous aromas of peach, nectarine, Fuji apple, citrus blossom and honeysuckle. The wine’s freshness also makes it a fantastic food wine, capable of pairing with the most diverse holiday fare. Available for purchase online at www.duckhorn.com and at select retail stores across the country.

2010 Splt Rock Cabernet Sauvignon –$35.00
Viluko Vineyards
This European-styled wine boasts a lovely label and showcases the vineyard’s connection to the land and to family. This wine offers tastes of vibrant red fruits and minerality as well as Cassis, juniper and a hint of citrus peel. It has excellent acidity and food flexibility. .

2012 Russian River Selection Pinot Noir – $45.00
Gary Farrell Winery
The 2012 Russian River Selection Pinot Noir exudes enticing aromas of fresh strawberries, wild cherry preserves, cinnamon and nutmeg, which give way to an intriguing combination of oyster mushrooms, cola, cedar and an elderberry reduction glaze. With bright acidity and decadent fruit, this focused and elegant wine is enveloped by caressing soft-grained tannins and displays a pleasant, lingering finish. A beautiful expression of the varietal and of the appellation’s unique terroir, this blend captures the richness, purity and elegance that are Gary Farrell Winery’s trademarks. Available for purchase online at www.garyfarrellwinery.com and at select retail stores across the country.

Price Point: $51.00+
For anyone looking to make a lasting impression with their bosses and clients this holiday season, the following wines say sophistication, class and ‘thank you for not emailing me too many times over the weekend.

2012 Hallberg Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley –$55.00
Gary Farrell Winery
This explosive, juicy wine boasts heady aromas of Kirsch, cardamom, sour cherry chutney, violet petals and boysenberry. Complex and savory, a plethora of earthy and dark fruit flavors emerge on the palate, reminiscent of leather, huckleberry, black cherry and bay leaf. The full-bodied, bold and zesty texture is rich and satisfying, while the bright acidity creates a long, juicy finish. This wine is perfect for food pairing over the holidays with notes of fall spices, dark fruits, and earthy and savory qualities match seasonal dishes. Available for purchase online at www.garyfarrellwinery.com and at select national retail stores.

2012 Pinot Noir, Bow Tie Vineyard – $75.00
J Vineyards & Winery
This wine features intense floral, black fruit and dried herb aromas. Flavors range from black cherry, blackberry and tea leaf to caramel and bittersweet chocolate, enhanced by a rich mouthfeel, firm tannins and youthful acidity. This wine pairs well with slow-cooked, hearty dishes like that of a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Available for purchase online at www.jwine.com/.

2010 Kate’s & B’s Cabernet Sauvignon – $75.00
Medlock Ames
From individual estate blocks reflective of classic Bordeaux territory, the 2010 Kate’s & B’s Cabernet Sauvignon has flavors of red plums, blackberry, mocha, smoky bacon, a hint of olive, and plushness that works with the firm finish. Winery Founders Chris “Medlock” James and Ames Morison, named this wine after their wives, Bradley and Kate. All grapes used are grown in certified-organic vineyards at the solar-powered winery. Available for purchase online at www.medlockames.com.

Silver Oak Alexander Valley Holiday Gift & Glass Set – $100.00
Silver Oak
The Silver Oak 2010 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon included in this gift set is a vibrant, elegant expression of this classic appellation from a cooler vintage. It has a deep garnet color and an enticing aroma of cassis liqueur, blueberry coulis, tobacco, tarragon and roasting coffee. The seamless palate starts with a berry-laden attack, follows with a full-bodied mid-palate, and ends with a long, savory finish with fine-grained, well-integrated tannins. One of the most popular holiday items, the package is inclusive of two Silver Oak wine glasses safely encased in a classic wood gift box.

Sonoma-County-Girls

 

 

Best Dallas Bloggers Online Holiday Cookie Exchange

December 9, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 Comments

A holiday cookie exchange is the ideal way at the holidays to reconnect with friends while stocking up on your own buffet of cookies! While I’ve hosted many exchanges, large and small, over the years, I think there are only a few guidelines to hosting the best cookie exchange. However, if you want the real lowdown on how to hand to do it by the book I suggest you the official website for cookie exchanges.

Best-Dallas-Bloggers-Online-Holiday-Cookie-Exchange.Unfortunately, as busy as many of my friends are, we decided to host an online cookie exchange featuring the tastiest recipes from some of the best bloggers in Dallas.

Since I am talking Dallas, you have to include the infamous Neiman Marcus cookie. If you’ve ever heard the myth, there was a woman who ate lunch at one of Dallas’ legendary luxury retailer. She enjoyed eating the cookie so much, she asked for the recipe. However, when she finally got her credit card bill that month she saw she had been charged $250 for the recipe. So out of revenge, she shared the recipe with everyone.


Neiman Marcus says it didn’t happen, however, the folklore is so popular, even they have put the story on their website. Funny enough I’ve actually come across multiple recipes for “the official” NM cookie recipe. However, I’ve tracked down the real one recipe – at least the one that NM claims to be the original. While basically a chocolate chip cookie recipe, it’s the special espresso powder that really give it the special something that makes you understand why you’d also pay $250 for a recipe…


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Neiman Marcus Cookies {Real Recipe}


  • Yield: 2 dozen cookies 1x
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Description

Whether or not the story of this recipe is true or not, the recipe is the real deal. While you can make modifications, start with this recipe for the best cookies. Ever. At least worth $250. (Thanks to the Neiman Marcus for the recipe! http://www.neimanmarcuscareers.com/index.shtml)


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup butter (one stick), softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 egg, large
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 3/4 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, semi-sweet or darker
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Cream the butter with the sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy (approximately 30 seconds). Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract for another 30 seconds.
  2. In a mixing bowl, sift together the dry ingredients and beat into the butter mixture at low speed for about 15 seconds. Stir in the espresso coffee powder and chocolate chips. Using a 1-ounce scoop or 2-tablespoon measure, drop cookie dough onto a greased cookie sheet about 3 inches apart.
  3. Gently press down on the dough with the back of a spoon to spread out into a 2-inch circle. Bake for about 20 minutes or until nicely browned around the edges. Bake a little longer for a crispier cookie. – See more at: http://goodtaste.tv/recipes/showrecipe/display/neimans-authentic-chocolate-chip-cookie#sthash.I0XA6sMC.dpuf

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge



Neiman-Marcus-Cookie

Dallas Blogger Cookie Exchange Recipes

cowboy-cookie-recipe-687x1024
Dawn Monroe | The Frugal Mom

http://www.mommieagain.com/2014/11/easy-delicious-gluten-free-dairy-free.html

Kim Croisant | Mommie Again

peppermint-chocolate-chip-meringue-christmas-cookies

Julie Grimmett | Julie is Coco and Cocoa 

 Christmas Swirl Sugar Cookies

Arena Blake | The Nerd’s Wife

Snowball-Cookies-2

 Valerie Preston | Family eGuide

Cherry-Blink-Recipe

Shannon Schmid | Milk and Cuddles

chocolate peanut butter surprise cookie (2)

Becky Moseley | Tales of Beauty for Ashes

 thumbprintlinzer-300x225

 Teia Collier | TeiaCollier.com

Christmas-Spirit-Cookies-Red-Velvet-with-Cream-Cheese-recipe-682x1024

 Betsy Segars | Lipstick & Highheels

CookiesandCream

Tammy Litke  | Three Different Directions 

What’s your favorite holiday cookie?

Go Big this NYE with Big D Baklava {Recipe}

December 8, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 26 Comments

Want to make a big impression on New Year’s Eve?Tracking Pixel Then make this Big D Baklava – huge on flavor, not on work! 

When a group of obsessive-compulsive, Type A mom bloggers get together, we get together to plan for other get-togethers.  (Always multitasking we are!)

#Puff-Pastry-New-Years#ad


Recently a group of us met to share recipes and ideas for hosting a New Year’s Party and how to be the hostess with the mostest using Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry. While I’m already a huge fan of pastry puff wrapped brie (my holiday staple), I learned that I could create an entire party menu with a little creativity and a whole lotta puff pastry!

Pepperidge-Farms#Puff-Pastry#ad

Of course, as good mothers/party planners should, we had to “test” everything.

And it was good. Oh so good!

#Puff-Pastry-Table#ad

Did you know that Pepperidge Farm makes not only puff pastry sheets, but cups too? So you can use them for savory items as well as sweet ones like these creamy mushroom puffs. (They were as good as they sounded, believe me.) The puff pastry is made like pie pastry, but when the 60 flaky layers of dough are baked, it rises eight times higher in size!  Now that’s a Puff-Out Party!

#PuffPastry-Pepperidge-Farm#ad

One of my favorite holiday recipes I’ve been making for years is baklava. My father even requests it and he is a picky eater for his birthday. However, for the holidays, I wanted to add a little something to it for an even bigger taste. By using Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry and a little touch of chipotle powder, my baklava went from great to amazing! Even if you don’t like heat, you can’t taste the spice exactly, you get a new layer of flavors that can’t be beat and using the puff pastry, you get Texas-size baklava that will bring ’em coming back for more each time.

#Puff-Pastry-Baklava-Recipe#Ad

Of course, if you want a little more flavor, you can always turn up the heat. Here in Dallas, Texas everything is always a little bit bigger and a whole lot better, so I’m sharing my recipe for Big D Baklava.

#Puff-Pastry-Pepperidge-Farm-Sheets#ad

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Big D Baklava


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Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (16 oz) Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry
  • 1 pound of nuts (I use 1/2 walnut + 1/2 pecan)
  • 1/2 cup butter (or 1 stick), room temperature so it can be spread
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle pepper (ground)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/4 cup honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. Butter the bottoms and sides of a pan with a lip (9×13 works well.)
  3. In a bowl, mix nuts, cinnamon and chipotle together. Set aside.
  4. Unwrap 1 puff pastry sheet, lay on counter or table and coat one side with butter.
  5. Divide sheet into 12 squares.
  6. Sprinkle 1/3 of nut mixture on each square.
  7. Next with 2nd sheet of puff pastry, butter and cut squares into 12.
  8. Sprinkle 1/3 of nut mixture then cover with squares.
  9. Add remaining nuts to top of pastry.
  10. Place squares in oven and cook for 15-20 minutes until brown.
  11. Meanwhile, boil sugar and water until melted. Add vanilla and honey. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
  12. Remove baklava squares from oven and spoon sauce over squares. Allow to cool. If using for gifts place on wax paper so they won’t stick. Leave uncovered or pastry will get soggy.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

BigD-Baklava-#PuffPastry#Ad.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of the Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry.

 

Cheddars Brings You Home for the Holidays with $1,000 (Ends Dec. 7)

December 3, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Many holiday memories are made around the dinner table.

Whether it’s the smell of the sage in grandma’s stuffing or the year the year’s we invited all our single friends over for a “grownup eight-course meal” in our PJ’s, food, friends and family were just made to go together, especially at this time of year.

And if only I could have one of my best friend’s that I haven’t seen in years come back to join me for that Thanksgiving seven years ago we spent in our PJs drinking sangria?


Cheddar’s, the long-time neighborhood casual cafe, wants to encourage you to share your best food memories, especially with that special person you’d love to see this holiday, but unfortunately can’t with their “Home for the Holidays” promotion.

From now until Dec. 7, share your memorable holiday meal experience you had with a special person you can’t be with this season and you might win $1,000 gift card + $250 gift card to Cheddar’s with their “Home for the Holidays” Contest.

Cheddars-Home-for-the-Holidays

Cheddar’s scratch-cooking celebrates delicious, home cooked food in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. We are all about bringing people back to the table to enjoy each other’s company over a great tasting meal. What better time to celebrate the idea of scratch cooking and happy reunions together than over the holidays?

Recently I dined at a local Cheddar’s I hadn’t been to in ages. When we walked in there was a huge waiting line of people waiting on a Tuesday, but after only a few (like three) minutes of waiting, we were shown to our table and enjoyed comfort food at its best, super customer service and all at really inexpensive prices. As indecisive as I am, the Vegetable Plate was the answer to my dreams because it included four veggies, a bowl of their hearty tortilla soup and a croissant. I was pleased as pie and so was the rest of the family…For four of us with an appetizer and drinks our total was just at $50. And we weren’t even eating out of a box or a sack. t may have not been a holiday, but the entire experience did make our Tuesday night seem kinda special. I know we will definitely be going back very very soon.

Cheddars

Good food, good service and good memories. It’s that same idea that sparked Cheddar’s Home for the Holidays Contest and of course, who couldn’t use $1,000 at the holidays?

Ready to share yours your holiday memory?

In 150 words or less, tell Cheddars about a great holiday meal you had with someone you want to spend the holidays with again this year but can’t (person must be alive). What did you have? Where were you? What does this person mean to you? Include a picture and hit “Submit”. We will pick three winners to receive a holiday reunion prize package of a $1,000 VISA gift card and a $250 Cheddar’s gift card. CLICK HERE TO ENTER.

How Chef Tim Love Remeals Thanksgiving Leftovers

November 26, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Cooking-with-Chef-Tim-Love

Thanksgiving is full of deliciousness.

Mom’s Turkey, grandma’s cornbread dressing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie…they all get to play centerstage on Turkey Day, but after its first appearance at the table, it’s never quite as special.


So they all turn into leftovers.

But what can you do those dishes just as good as they were when you served them?

Recently, I was invited to eat with a few of my friends to cook up Thanksgiving leftovers with Chef Tim Love.

The chef known for his original urban-Texas dishes (and his iconic cowboy hat as he cooks up first-class food on Food Network), opened up his kitchen for a few of us to challenge him to retool/remeal using Thanksgiving leftovers.

A long-time fan of Chef Tim Love, (who hangs his hat in Fort Worth) the afternoon was full of lots of laughs, tons of tips and of course, phenomenal food. Honestly, this was one of those moments I could have just pinched myself. “Kitchen redevelopment with Tim Love” – I could mark off my bucket list.

We create many interesting dishes (Nutella, blue cheese and pickled peppers were just some of the ingredients we used, but we did come up with one real winner – The Thanksgiving Leftovers English Muffin…And in Chef Tim Love fashion, we added a little quail egg to make it complete.

Turkey-Thanksgiving-Leftovers-Tim-Love

The only other thing better I could have asked for is to spend Thanksgiving with Chef Tim Love…

Chef-Tim-Love-Autumn-Reo-MamaChallenge.com

However, since he had already bought the tickets for his family to spend Thanksgiving in Europe and eating Turkey Day at his favorite restaurant in Paris, I guess I understand why I didn’t get an invitation. 😉

Arsenal! Arsenal! Unfortunately we lost to Man U on an own goal! Stadium was awesome! #London

A photo posted by Tim Love (@cheftimlove) on Nov 11, 2014 at 5:39am PST

 Make sure to watch the video for the recipe! 

Thanksgiving-Leftovers-English-Muffin-Tim-Love

 

Make the Holidays Count with Help from Market Street

November 19, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: I’m thrilled to be partnering with Market Street to highlight features, deals and more each month! #MarketStreetTX

Oh, the holidays. 

My favorite time of the year.  And honestly, one of the hardest times of the year, too.


I love all the decorations, the music, the tradition, the parties, the gifts…Unfortunately, that all takes work. A lot of work. And normally, that’s up to me. I want so much for things to be perfect. To look a certain way, be a certain way, and to be a remembered a certain way.

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals#ad
But after many years of hard work, I’ve decided that what really counts is the time we spend together. The friends I haven’t seen don’t care I spent countless hours preparing my house to look like the magazines. My family doesn’t care mom spent days putting together the perfect holiday meal. And they really don’t care if when everything’s all over, that there’s hours of cleaning up – at least not enough to pitch in (HA!)

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals

So this year, it’s time to decide what is really important. I want to entertain and I want it to be good, but I don’t always have the time to put in.

That’s where my friends at Market Street make it SO easy to create the right party set up for friends or the holiday meal that your family will be talking about for years!

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals

Just take a look at this quick, but delicious party, but it certainly doesn’t look like it’s from a container (and I didn’t do anything, but put it in the oven and then on the table.) I just went to Market Street, picked it up and served it up!

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals

 

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals

MARKET STREET SIGNATURE ITEMS

Smoked Gouda Pimiento Dip

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Market Street Cheese Balls

Artisan Breads (cracked pepper parmesan, white chocolate apricot, good n’ grainy)

Texas Brownies

Thumbprint cookies

Bacon Wrapped Quail with jalapeno

Stuffed Pork Loin

Roasted Red Pepper & Feta Stuffed Roulade (flank steak stuffed with fresh ingredients.)

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals

Or you can get Market Street to put together the whole holiday meal for you with just one order! Take a look at the tasty Turkey Day or Christmas Dinner at http://marketstreetdfw.com/holidaydinners! My Market Street even has a separate drive-through and they will bring out your meal to you! Now that’s easy holiday entertaining!

Market-Street-Signature-Holiday-Meals

Insta-Thanksgiving: Turkey Flavored Popcorn and Apple Pie Juice

November 17, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 50 Comments

 I received product for purposes of this review. All comments here are all my own. 

Are you too busy this Thanksgiving to cook up a beautiful bird, stuffing and the works?

Or is everyone got some much on their plate (pun intended) that they don’t have time to come home and enjoy the American holiday?


Or are you watching that waistline, but are craving just one bite of fresh baked apple pie?

Don’t worry we’ve got the solution for you and we aren’t talking catering or a non-fat version of pie.

Nope.

KingofPop.com Thanksgiving Feast Delivery

And it’s better than mashed potato flakes, too.

Gourmet popcorn in all the flavors of Thanksgiving.

KingOfPop.com “popcorn-ized” the big meal this year via the Thanksgiving Popcorn Feast – nine flavors of popcorn combined to give you every taste of a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner. Flavors include: turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, apple pie, pumpkin pie and strawberry cheesecake. This would be a creative hostess gift, or a real surprise for kids at the feast who expected to yawn their
way through another Thanksgiving. Available at GourmetGiftBaskets.com for $34.99.

Popcorn that tastes like Thanksgiving Dinner

While I didn’t pop open the sides, I did eagerly dive into a bag of Pumpkin Pie popcorn and it fit the bill. So I went ahead and finished it off, much like I’d like to do a Thanksgiving except this time it’s one kernel at time.

Right after Thanksgiving, GourmetGiftBaskets.com is offering the Holiday Gourmet Popcorn Sampler, which includes: Gingerbread, Dark Chocolate Orange, Eggnog, Holiday Anise Cookie, Cinnamon Bun, Dark Chocolate Peppermint, White Chocolate Peppermint, Tuxedo, and Strawberry Cheesecake-flavored popcorns ($39.99).

But we haven’t just popcorned Thanksgiving…they’ve juiced it, too.

holiday-group

Old Orchard Brands, just introduced a new line of limited-edition fruit juice cocktails to celebrate the iconic flavors of fall. Apple Pie, Caramel Apple and Apple Cherry Cobbler fruit juice cocktails are available in stores beginning in November and are the perfect additions to the season. Sweetened naturally and are made with real fruit juice, the three cocktails contain no artificial colors or preservatives. Apple Pie features hints of cinnamon, vanilla bean and nutmeg. Caramel Apple’s creamy caramel taste complements the flavor of crisp fall apples. Apple Cherry Cobbler features a blend of late summer cherries, a hint of lemon and the sweetness of juicy red apple. For a list of retailers featuring the Old Orchard limited-edition fall cocktail juices, visit

Best of all, pretty sure you won’t turn into a blueberry or be wheeled out for juicing if you take a taste.

But I would suggest brushing your teeth after munching on the Roasted Vegetables popcorn.

Wanna try the three Old Orchard Juice blends?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Nine Reasons To Go to Cici’s Pizza Tomorrow, Really

November 11, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 42 Comments

I was invited to learn about Cici’s New #BetterBelieveIt Taste Better at a local Cici’s Pizza. And now I want you to know Cici’s ain’t the same place you and I used to eat at. All the comments are all my own. 

Do you remember your first time at Cici’s Pizza?

For me it was in college when I had $4 left in my bank account and I was starving. But after searching for that extra dollar in change I found in my car, I was able to scrape together $5…That got me an endless supply of pizza or at least as much I could put it my mouth at that setting. This is how many of us did it for years – go to Cici’s and get high quantities of pizza. It wasn’t exactly our favorite pizza, but you couldn’t argue with the value for your $5.


Apparently, I wasn’t the only one that thought Cici’s Pizza was alright, but wasn’t my favorite pizza to eat. I wanted more toppings and less crust to bite through. I wanted to taste my pizza, not just eat it.

Nine-Reasons-To-Go-to-Cicis-Pizza-Tomorrow #BetterBelieveIt

Thankfully, they listened to my request and many others and this month Cici’s Pizza launched a new pizza.

1. The sauce is zestier with a new recipe (really)

2. The pizza is cheesier by doubling the cheese on more (really)

MamaChallenge-CiciPizza

3. The toppings are tastier with better quality toppings and adding more to each pie (really)

4. The crust is yummier with a new made-from-scratch with garlic butter and less thick so there’s room for more stuff

Cicis-Pizza #BetterBelieveIt

But there was a lot more about Cici’s Pizza that I learned that I didn’t know, too.

5. While Cici’s Pizza doesn’t serve a gluten-free pizza, you can bring one from home and they will cook it for you!

6. Cici’s Pizza serves the community in so many ways including school fundraisers. youth sports discounts, birthday party packages, lunch and learns and a lot more.

7. Macaroni and Cheese Pizza? Yep. They got that and whole lot more like Buffalo Chicken Pizza, Spinach Alfredo and other fun combinations, I never knew they had. Actually, you can create your own and they’ll bring it to your table. All you have to do is ask.

When a little girl’s favorite thing is Mac n cheese, you should expect her favorite pizza to be Mac n cheese too. #betterbelieveit #pizza #macncheese

A photo posted by Mama Challenge (@autumnreo) on Nov 11, 2014 at 10:46am PST

8. For $5.99 you can get a full pizza buffet with dessert, salad bar and pasta for adults (it’s even cheaper for the kids.) That’s a deal. Don’t believe me? You better believe it!

9. I am giving away a gift card for $10 to Cici’s Pizza for you to try for yourself!   

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Junior League of Arlington’s The Night Before Christmas Coffee Cake

November 7, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

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Junior League of Arlington’s The Night Before Christmas Coffee Cake


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Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 c. sugar
  • ½ c. brown sugar
  • 2/3 c. butter
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 c. flour
  • 1 sp. baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 c. buttermilk (or 1 tablespoon cider vinegar to 1 cup milk)
  • ½ c. brown sugar
  • 4 tsp. cinnamon
  • ½ c. walnuts

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup sugar ½ brown sugar with butter.
  2. Add eggs until well blended.
  3. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
  4. Stir dry ingredients into dough.
  5. Add buttermilk and nuts until well blended.
  6. Pour mixture into 9 X 13 inch dish.
  7. In third bowl, combine ½ c brown sugar, 4 tsps. cinnamon to create crumble topping.
  8. Spring mixture on top of bread.
  9. Refrigerate overnight.
  10. When you wake Christmas morning, bake bread at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.
  11. Serve with coffee and hot cocoa!

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Make-Ahead Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

November 7, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

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Make-Ahead Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole


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Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices bread
  • 1 lb. ham, sausage or any meat/veggies
  • 1 cup mozzarella and 1 cup sharp
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • ½ tsp dry mustard
  • ¾ cup half and half
  • 1 2/4 c. milk
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce

Instructions

  1. Slice bread and decrust.
  2. Line bread in pan.
  3. Layer cooked meat and cheese in pan.
  4. In a bowl combine the remaining ingredients.
  5. Cover meat and cheese with mixture.
  6. Then add cheese for garnish.
  7. Refrigerate overnight.
  8. The next morning cook 30 – 40 minutes at 350 F.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge


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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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