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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Gift Ideas for Him

June 4, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Father’s Day? His Birthday? A special celebration? It’s not always easy to get that special guy a gift, but these Gift Ideas for Him are perfect for any occasion at any price.

Ugly shirts. Tools. Bad-for-you food. I don’t know why, but getting HIM a gift isn’t always easy – especially if you have to send it in the mail. 

Whether it’s Father’s Day, a birthday, a special occasion or of course, Christmas, men are just as hard to buy for as women. Unless they tell you what they want, it’s a game of cat and dog to figure it out or you know exactly what it is, but you need there size, special scent or flavor or it seems too much to make the wrong decision. (Believe me, I bought a recliner for my husband once and I was informed quickly that’s the kind of thing you let them pick out.)


Gifts for Him

Let’s be honest, guys are as hard as women to get the right thing. They don’t all love sports. They don’t all love BBQ. But we’ve put together some general ideas that work well for all different interests, styles and wants.

So if you’re looking for a good set of ideas of gifts that are going to be met with rave reviews, we have gift Ideas for Him are perfect for any occasion.

For the Beer Lover

Mini-Monster Bookshelf Brewery Homebrew Kit

Yep, let’s start with the generic “man” love – beer.  But beer making can actually be something that can be done as a personal or family project.  This Mini Monster Bookshelf Brewery One Gallon Homebrew Kit looks a lot more like a chemistry project than a beer-making apparatus, but the instructions looked simple and we could do it together. Many great partnerships have been built and shared over a cold beer. So we could make it and then drink it (barring that the stuff tasted good when we are done.) 

 

Beer of the Month Club

For the beer connoisseur (or that guy who just can’t wait to make it and drink it), there’s the Beer of the Month Club.  Each month he’ll receive 12 bottles of the best brews from across the nation: 

  • 12,  12 oz. beer
  • 4 different styles – 2 from each craft brewery
  • 3 beers each (cans featured 3x per year)
  • 3 free gifts (koozies, openers, etc.) 
  • Beer Newsletter + Magazine

Spirits Connoisseur 

Drinkworks Home Bar By Keurig

Okay there are plenty of things you can get him that have a beer theme, but like in the case of my husband, beer isn’t his favorite. He prefers whiskey and the occasional margarita. For this guy, he will love the Drinkworks Home Bar by Keurig. Yes, it’s that easy to put in a pod and out comes the perfectly poured, perfectly crafted cocktail, beer or cider with this easy push and deliver maker.

 
Flaviar Membership
 
If making his own is more work than gift, then go with spirits delivery and let them pick. I love the Flaviar membership representing some of the best names in bourbon, scotch and more. Either quarterly or yearly, each quarter you receive 1 Tasting Box of your choice and 1 full-size Bottle of your choice with free shipping. The cherry on top is the free live tasting events. 
 
 
Personalized Whiskey Glasses
 
And of course with whiskey there’s the perfect presentation. These beautiful, personalized whiskey glass with a bullet going through it, is great for a hunter or Bond fan alike. Plus they are a great talking piece! 
 
 

For the Food Lover

This is where many men fall in my life: they’re all about some good food. And if you can make it where you can enjoy on a good camping trip or easy to eat wherever he’s going, then I’m golden. Make it taste amazing and it’s almost too hard to keep it stocked. That’s why the The Manly Man Company® is a no-brainer. The Best Jerky Gift Box is exactly what it is – the best of the best with a little bit of everything including spirit infused jerky and the strangest, but best Pepperoni jerky (don’t knock it until you try it!) 

There are other options as well including the very romantic Beef Bouquet that is bound to show your love in more ways than one! Available in different flavors and sizes, you’ll get his attention with this beautiful display and make his taste buds dance! (We all know the way to make a man really happy is through his stomach!) 

Man Crates Hickory Grilling Crate

For the BBQ, go with the Man Crates Hickory Grilling Crate as another way to give him something not just to eat, but to create. This crate, part of the Man Crate brand, includes seasoning, marinades, chips and more to make him the BBQ king of his domaine. And when your man loves BBQ as much as mine does, well it’s clear that there never will be a sauce that he’s not afraid to pair when a big rack of meat. 

BBQ Crate

Personalized Steak Branding Iron with Cedar Gift Box

He’s got the skills to make a mean, juicy steak so it’s only right for everyone and their dog to know who the master griller is. Treat your grill master to some red-hot pride with the Personalized Steak Branding Iron with Cedar Gift Box.

BBQ Kit
  

The Man with Style 

Dollar Sock Crew
Whether he likes this funny or likes them with class, the Dollar Sock Crew makes for a great gift. With several price points including as low as 4 pairs for $10, you can create a subscription or let him do the picking for new socks every month. With various designs and colors made with quality materials, these are the socks he’ll walk into each day with a little pep in his step. 
 
 
Scent Box
My husband has had one scent for 20 years…and that’s when he actually puts on cologne. If the man in your life needs to update his smell-good factor SCENT BOX is an affordable and fun way to do it. Sample new designer fragrances each and every month and once you find your favorites, you can then purchase them in larger sizes.
 
No Idea What to Get Him? 
 
It’s ok – it’s the thought that counts, right? Try out America’s Crate. Yep, American-made and American-centric products curated at different price points for any guy who wants to show his American spirit. 
 
 
Fathers-Day-Gift-Card
 
 
 

Celebrate Your Favorite Disney Princess

January 6, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

What Disney princess does your child love most? More importantly, which Disney Princess is your favorite? Celebrate your princess with Madame Alexander’s new Disney Princess Collection.

Thanks to Madame Alexander for continuing to keep little girls dreaming big with this sponsored post. 

When I was growing up Snow White was my princess du jour. At least until 1991 when Disney unveiled a new kind of princess.  

She wasn’t just beautiful, but had brains and a pretty keen sense of humor. Her name was Belle and at 11 (that was how old I was), I thought she was pretty freaking amazing. 


Disney-Princesses-Teach-Us-to-Dream-Big

Through the years, I’ve loved some Disney Princesses and now with my own little princess, she has, too. I’m sure part of the reason she has every dress of every princess is that deep down I wanted to wear all those princess gowns, too…If I could just that genie out of the bottle (God bless Robin Williams), I’d rock that Jasmine get up too and believe me there would be a freaking parade as I hit a high note that Mariah Carey can’t even reach (well…) 

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

[Dream sequence over and skip forward to 2017.] Beauty and the Beast hasn’t lost any popularity as exhibited by my little princess that loves her Belle dress she received last Christmas or any of the millions of fans that are counting down until March when the animated favorite comes alive in a new rendition of the timeless tale (go ahead, you should totally watch the trailer.)

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

So with a lot of negative things happening in the world and unfortunately many of them pointed at little girls, a heroine like Belle is exactly what I want my daughter to look to as a positive image. Belle is the whole package in my eyes and sees passed what’s on the outside of people (and what other people think), but to the goodness that is found in all people. And she prides herself on being independent and walking to the beat of her own drum.

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

Can’t complain about that. 

And any movie that has Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, the feather duster; six-time Tony Award® winner Audra McDonald as Madame Garderobe, Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts, I’m just as excited to be in line to watch this one, too.

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

Until the movie debuts and well after the classic runs its time at the local movie theatre, another classic continues to bring the spirit of the princess alive. A new collection of Madame Alexander Disney Princesses was just launched featuring Belle, Ariel and Cinderella. 

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

'For every girl who dreams big, there’s a princess to show her it’s possible.' Click To Tweet

Disney Princesses Teach Us to Dream Big

Celebrate Disney Princesses with the new collection of 18-inch dolls featuring luxurious design elements that every princess lover will cherish. With three of the Disney Princesses to launch, your princess (designed for ages 3 and up) will love any of these to play or collect for many years to come. 

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

Madame Alexander Disney Princess Collectible Doll is priced at $ 89.95 and available on their website for a limited time. 

Best Gifts for Super Hero Fans

May 31, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 87 Comments

Want to give your kids’ greatest super hero a gift that he’ll love for Father’s Day? Here are the best gifts for super hero fans including just the #writegift from Cross Pens new Marvel Collection AND learn how you can win it, too! 

[Thank you for Cross Pens for partnering with mamachallenge for this special giveaway. Affiliate links may also be included with current prices (subject to change.)]

Like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day is meant to be a special day to celebrate the Pater familias, but somehow it turns into a day to give dad a whole bunch of crap he doesn’t want. So this Dad’s Day, save the day by giving your #1 supe rman one of these out-of-this-world gifts featuring his favorite super heroes. 


1. CROSS Pens New Marvel Collection | Captain America: Civil War Super Pens | $150 

You can’t go wrong for Dad’s Day with this top-0f-the-line pen from Cross Pens. Known for quality craftsmanship and writing finesse, these stunning collectibles just hit the scene with the summer’s upcoming blockbuster film Captain America: Civil War. Featuring Captain America, Iron Man, and Spider Man, your special man will feel like he’s has a new super power when he whips out his new super pen. 

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Available in two styles, the first the brand’s evolutionary Century II series is finished in a high-gloss lacquer and includes a collectible, character-specific romance card And the second is the Tech2 series, which transforms from a ballpoint pen to a stylus in a flash (MSRP $45 USD.) 

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ENTER TO WIN CROSS CAPTAIN AMERICA CROSS PEN BELOW!

2. Marvel | Fortaleza Spider Man Watch | $50.99

Make your fan’s day AMAZING with this time-stopping Marvel Fortaleza Watch.  Featuring the Amazing Spider Man on the face of the watch, the band features a a polished and matte steel finish and a precision Japan movement. This fan will be ready to fight off bad co-workers and get to home just in time with this super watch pick! 

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3. SockShop | Marvel Comics 4-Pack Socks | $15.25

Your fan will MARVEL at this four-pack of his favorite super heroes socks from SockShop. Even the most button-down man can go undercover with his super hero love by slipping on these socks featuring The Incredible Hulk, The Amazing Spider Man, Iron Man, and Wolverine. 

61TSChfY2pL._UL1500_

4. Graduation Gownstar | 6 Pair Super Hero Cufflinks | $29.99 

Not sure which super hero is Dad’s favorite? Then don’t choose – pick them all with this special 6-pair set of cuff links. Featuring Marvel and DC Comic characters, dad will be ready to show his shield and his special moves (either in the board room or on a night on the town), with this gift-ready box of cuff links.
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5. Mad Engine | Marvel Men’s Spider Man Amazing Dad Shirt | $16.99

There’s nothing like telling him exactly how you feel – that he’s amazing! Move over Spider Man, your dad is taking over with this t-shirt he’s sure to donn not just this Father’s Day, but every day he needs to take on the world with a family proud to call him Dad! 

 

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Win the Cross Pen Captain America Pen ($150 value) just in time for Father’s Day! 

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Don’t miss this #mamachallenge moment:

Fathers-Day-Gift-Card

 

 

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

August 3, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 37 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Sometimes you just need to say thank you.

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


Bomb Pop Makes You Smile

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

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

Bomp Pop

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

Bomb-Pop-Package

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

mamabomb

Bob Pop Thank You

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

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

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Best Gift for the Frozen Fan Who Has Everything

June 23, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 14 Comments

Disclaimer

Got a little Princess or Prince  to buy a gift for, but think they already have everything that could be frosted with snowflakes and include the song “Let it Go?” While a trip to Disney World or Land is always the top pick for any real Disney fan, sometimes that’s not in the budget or in the schedule.

Disney Frozen: You are My Best Friend


However, you can now take children on an adventure with Anna, Elsa and everyone else at Disney in the new “Disney’s Frozen: You are My Best Friend” Put Me in the Story Personalized books.

Come explore Frozen’s wintry world of magic with everyone’s two favorite, fearless sisters! Pull your child closer and catch up with Anna and Elsa, the two best friends that a royal little one can have! Your child will be thrilled to discover that the sisters have invited them into the castle! Join the sisters on a journey to see just how fast a bond can grow and learn that the right companion can bring warmth to the wintriest kingdoms. Your child won’t want to let go of this personalized book with their name, photo and a special dedication message. This book can also be personalized with our special edition just for sisters!

Elsa-Anna-Book Personalize this fantastic Frozen adventure with your child’s name, photo, and special message on the dedication page. Your little one will not want to let this book go!

Personalize this fantastic Frozen adventure with your child’s name, photo, and special message on the dedication page. Your little one will not want to let this book go!

And to celebrate the release of Anna and Elsa’s new book, you could also enter to win a magical family vacation to Orlando with Put Me In The Story’s Frozen Dream Vacation Sweepstakes! You can win a 3-Day/2-Night trip for a family of four to the most magical place in the world! Grand prize includes airfare, hotel accommodation, and theme park tickets! And when you enter, you can get 20% off your own Put Me in the Story Personalized Book! 

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. See Rules http://bit.ly/1cl8taY. Ends 07/17/2015. One entry valid per day.

Other Frozen Fun on MamaChallenge.com Not To Miss

Frozen-Birthday-Party-Ideas

Best Subscription Boxes 2015

June 1, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 33 Comments

I’m a sucker for a delivery to my doorstep.

Each time the FedEx man or that brown truck shows up with a box, it’s a fight to finish to meet him at the door so I can quickly whisk it to the kitchen to rip open the contents.

So ever since that first subscription box showed up in the market, I was hooked. It had all the fun of Christmas morning PLUS it was delivery to boot. I loved the idea so much I featured some of my favorite boxes on Good Morning Texas in June 2014.


Best-Subscription-BoxesA year later the subscription craze is still running strong and now each one is getting even more creative in efforts to fit your perfect fix. Subscription companies have stepped up their game with curation and education. Just check out the best subscription boxes 2015!

MISTOBOX

Coffee isn’t just about caffeine anymore with the MistoBox. Each month you receive four different roasters inside of your MistoBox from some of the hippest and tastiest coffee houses around. Each box includes tasting notes to help you learn more during your coffee journey and where it’s from. So you can just sit back and enjoy the grind…

MistoBox

Cost:  $12.99 to $22.99 per shipment depending on the options a customer selects.

CLUB W

For some it’s coffee, for others it’s wine. Club W works directly with wine makers. There are no middlemen, which means you get better wine for less. Shipping directly to you also so they invest in smaller, more unique lots with companies they don’t require quotas on quantity. Learning about wine should be fun, not overbearing or pretentious. Each month you’ll also receive with your box of three wines, short videos for every wine including tasting notes and other background information such as the producer’s story, an explanation of the growing region or a primer on the varietal.

Cost: Starts at 3 bottles a month for $39 + $6 flat rate shipping. Club W covers shipping on orders of 6 or more bottles.

CRAFTED TASTE

And for those of us looking for a new go-to-drink or are willing to expand our craft cocktail, there’s Crafted Taste. Purchased as a subscription or as individual kits, each new kit gives you everything you need to become a mixologist. From the sugar syrup,  liquor and even the napkins, every month’s shipment is a new reason to celebrate. I love this idea for a mandatory date-night in idea, girls’ night get together or the ideal birthday gift. And they’ll even customize based on tastes or large gift orders.

Crafted-Taste

Cost:  $65/month for a mixer-only subscription or $130/cocktail subscription and $200/premium subscription

SPICE MADAMS

Explore the world through curated spice kits from different cultures delivered to your kitchen every month!

Founded by two Dallas ladies, you sign up for the box, and you get four spices from a specific country or culture with education and recipes that feature the spices. Allows you to expand your culinary adventures with just one box a month!

Cost: $20/month and discounted rates with longer subscriptions

Spice Madam fans can use promo code UASPICEMADAM15 at Urban Acres to get a free UA membership and first Medium Share ($83 Value)!

CUPCAKE OF THE MONTH & BACON OF THE MONTH

From Amazing Clubs, America’s #1 Gourmet Gifts of the Month Club with over 1 million satisfied customers, you can’t go wrong with cupcakes or bacon, but they have 40+ other monthly box subscriptions to choose from.

Cupcake of the Month
Each month they’ll deliver a delicious selection of 12 gourmet cupcakes in four new flavors. Flavors range from old-fashioned favorites like creamy chocolate and red velvet cupcakes, to exciting new flavors like banana cream and tart raspberry. The cupcakes are made with only the finest, all-natural ingredients and delivered fresh, moist and pretty.

Cost: $54.95 with a 3-month subscription

Cupcake

Bacon of the Month
Each month they’ll deliver two generous, one-pound, thick-cut, hand-rubbed selections of gourmet bacons tha are low-production, artisan bacons from specialty producers nationwide. Bacon-lovers will be in hog heaven with delicious flavors like honey BBQ, sun dried tomato, fresh cracked pepper and many more. Each one-pound selection of gourmet bacon is made with only the finest, all-natural ingredients and delivered perfectly fresh in refrigerated packaging.

Cost: $49.95 with a 3-month subscription

PLATED

Plated takes the work out of making exciting fresh and restaurant-quality meals at home. This is flexible, weekly subscription service that allows you to skip as many weeks as you’d like and simple to cancel at any time online.  All of meats are 100% antibiotic-free with no added hormones, all seafood is domestic and sustainably sourced.  They offer up 7-9 new recipes on our site each week including 3 vegetarian options, and 4 meat and seafood options per week so that there’s a range of options for everyone. Featured on Beyond the Tank (Shark Tank spin-off) the idea of Plated is to help get busy Americans cooking more and living better by bridging the gap between how we say we want to eat and how we actually eat. Professional chefs create and test new recipes each week, with plenty of options for different tastes and different skills levels.

Plated

Cost: Dishes are $12 per plate (1 plate = 1 person or 1 serving) with a 4 plate minimum per order (that’s 2 meals for 2 people) and you can order as many plates/recipes as you’d like (in multiples of 2). Right now you can get four plates for the price of two.

GWYNNIE BEE

Gwynnie Bee is the only clothing rental subscription service exclusively for women sizes 10-32. Described as a digital department store with 2,000 styles from 150 brands to choose from, you receive unlimited exchanges and free shipping. With the most common plan, members receive on average $900-$1,200 worth of apparel for the same cost of just one dress but all the fun of having something new to wear!

Gwynnie-Bee

Gwynnie Bee members on Facebook

Cost: Most popular plan is $79/month for 3 items at a time and receive around 6-12 items a month. Gwynnie Bee is currently offering a free 30-day trial of the subscription.

Make sure not to miss many of these offers with free trials and BOGOs for the first month.

Win your own MistoBox from MamaChallenge.com!

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Three Camera Must-Haves for a New Photographer

May 28, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 51 Comments

Disclaimer

I achieved a big milestone a few months ago…I purchased a “big girl camera.”

AKA a DSLR, I finally made it a priority to purchase a camera that wasn’t something to be handy and quick, but instead had the capability to capture those beautiful, Pinterest-ready shots for the blog AND even click a few of the family for those perfect opportunities between Christmas and Easter family portraits.  Since I had made the choice to make the purchase, I bought everything I THOUGHT I needed to be the best photographer in the world…or at least begin to try.


Mod-Straps-mamachallenge

After the  first full photo card and a long day of taking shots, I realized I needed not one, not two but MANY memory cards. One of the best tips I had heard from well-seasoned photographers is that you just keeping taking photos and eventually when you get back to your computer you’ll find that magic one that’s just the right angle, the right lighting and the right look for your perfect shot. But to do that you need lots of space on a card and you never want to get stuck when you’re just about to get that great shot and then you the “CARD FULL” come up. So bottom line, get big memory cards and many of them.

mamachallenge-mod-straps

The other thing I learned was a must-have was a good camera strap. Sure, I had the one sent with the camera. But one hour after you have that hanging around your neck with your camera attached, you’ll feel exactly what I’m talking about. That uncomfortable and raw feeling of the not-so-soft strap. So consider one that’s cute, comfortable and so useful, like the straps from mod. Not only are there tons of designs to choose from, but you also can get this strap wrap attachment that allows you to insert additional photo cards, ID, money, batteries and more so it’s not in your pocket (or later lost on the ground.)

ModStraps

And the last thing was a lens-cap saver. That’s right…I needed something to help me keep up with my lens cap. I would put it in my pocket and then kneel down and it would roll out every time. Then I would scour the world, in grass, dirt, wherever, to find it. While it may seem kinda silly, a lens-cap saver saved me HUGE on keeping my camera lens clean of scratches and me from having to keep buying more each time I lost mine. Mod’s lens savers are adorable and have tons of personality…and why can’t you have fun while being functional?

Mod-lens-cover

Dallas-based mod is a mom-daughter company that I’m proud to say I worked with a few years ago when they just began their business. Now this USA-made business is not just online but distributed and sold in several stores you may *even have heard of *like Target, Nebraska Furniture Mart and Amazon. While I would love to tell you more, I think they both do a better job…

AND NOW YOU CAN HAVE ONE TOO! Thanks to mod we’re giving away a special bundle with a strap, lens saver, and drop-in pouch ($79.00 value). 

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BippityBoppityBoo! Disney Cinderella Collection Debuts at JCPenney

March 13, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 18 Comments

Disclaimer

Beginning this Friday, March 14, princesses, young and old, will experience the magic of glass slippers and carriages, with the debut of Cinderella.


To celebrate the fairytale, JCPenney has partnered with Disney for a new Disney Collection. My little princess couldn’t have been more excited when the “fairy godmother” sent her a little package to get ready for the ball!

Cinderella-JCP-MamaChallenge3

In celebration of the retail collaboration with JCPenney and Disney’s New Live-Action Film “Cinderella”, JCPenney has unveiled a new line for princesses everywhere!

Designed exclusively for JCPenney and sold in the enchanting Disney shop inside JCPenney, offers a variety of options to complete the transformation from little girl to princess. From sparkling tiaras, princess gowns, “glass” slippers and more… girls everywhere can make any moment magical and bring out their inner Cinderella.

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All items are available for purchase now at JCPenney stores and all retail for under $55.

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What’s your favorite Cinderella Moment?

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

 

 

Finally! Make Your Own Thomas & Friends’ Engine

July 17, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Thomas & Friends has a new engine in town…Logan! This limited-release engine is introducing the new Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway, a whole new line of Thomas & Friends products! Little engineers (and their moms and dads) are invited for a free, fun welcome party (completed with activities, prizes and more) on August 23 at The Toy Maven in Dallas. 

Everyone knows that we are HUGE fans of the #1 Blue Engine, so even though my little man had started shifting from Thomas-everything to a little more LEGOS, he was so excited to open his box of goodies and find an engine named after his mama! Within seconds, we had created a track for the engine and a tunnel, part of the double-duty of the personalized book! 



What’s even more exciting is the new line of personalized engines, storybooks and track sets that comes with the new Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway available only only through catalog, 20 Thomas & Friends Official Specialty Stations like The Toy Maven across the U.S., and online. 



Can’t wait to see what’s available? You can go online at www.ThomasWoodenRailway.com to purchase your new personalized engines! 

Welcome Logan Celebration 
Dallas Launch of Logan and Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway
Saturday, August 23, 10 am – 2 pm 
The Toy Maven 
6025 Royal Lane, Suite 223
Dallas, Texas 75230
Free
www.facebook.com/ToyMaven

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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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