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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Get the Gift That Shows Off Your Grad & Their Personality

May 21, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: I received a sample shirt to see how unique PrepSportswear and its ordering options are compared to other companies. 

When you live less than five miles from the home of the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys you see a lot of spirit apparel (I can’t even begin to enumerate what I’ve seen you can put a logo on). And when you live in “North Texas” (the whole region of Texas from about Waco to the Oklahoma border), you see even more college spirit shirts. Basically, when it comes down to it, we North Texans are a spirited group of folks and we find it absolutely necessary to show our allegiance to our team (or at least where our money goes to for college) on a shirt we wear with pride throughout the year.


With graduation just around the corner, it was time for me to purchase gifts for a few special folks to appropriately ship them off to their new home away from home with their new namesake. While I could have walked into any college bookstore or go to a few of the well-known online retailers to get a shirt, I wanted something different. Something that I knew that they wouldn’t get from anyone else and would be able to strut onto campus with a little unique flair that showed who they are.


Prep Sportswear is one of the new online shops for custom apparel and gear featuring your school, college, Greek, military, destination, golf course, international teams and new Vintage line. Their portfolio of brands covers all the bases and offers officially licensed merchandise in styles that speak to your individual taste.

The custom process starts with picking your school, college or other organization. Then choose from a wide array of t-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, etc… and select the logo along with custom options. Prep Sportswear uses quality materials that include 100% cotton, organic and performance from brands such as Russell, Alternative Apparel, Champion, etc. , so you are guaranteed to get a comfortable fit no matter what you order. For those that are looking to customize other aspects of life, they have you covered. Personalize everything from backpacks to iPad and cell phone skins, to blankets, scarves and towels.


While the site is still working on getting a lot of the major sports teams and universities, you can search their inventory and find out quickly if they have a shirt or item that you are looking for. 

And for those of us not quite looking at college yet, check out all the school shirts available in just Arlington. There’s almost a 100 to choose from in Arlington alone. 

See if your school makes the list at: http://www.prepsportswear.com. 









How Mother’s Day is Made at The Shops at Park Lane with No Shopping at All

May 8, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: I was part of a tour to check out The Shops at Park Lane. So glad they did since I’d never been. That’ll change now. See why below. 

I have a confession…I don’t like to shop. 

Well, let me rephrase, I just don’t think of it as something fun, but work. Hard work, but someone has to do it. 


On Mother’s Day, shopping it’s not exactly my idea of how I want to spend my day, but instead, relaxing and enjoying myself while I do little to nothing at all. 


So the thought of going to The Shops of Parks Lane may not be the first place I’d suggest to spend Mother’s Day, but after a recent trip, I’m pleasantly surprised! 



Actually, I was flat out wrong. 


In just three hours, all the woes and drama of my day had dissipated and I was, for at least a moment, without a care in the world. At a shopping center. 


Right…? 

So what did I do that was so dang enjoyable that it changed my life that day in a little bit of time and only around $50? 


Photo from The Shops at Park Lane website

I got my hair washed, dryed and style at the Aveda Institute of Dallas for one. And in beautiful Aveda fashion, the amazing aromatherapy started at the door and led me to a comfortable chair with a lovely woman who instantly whisked me away to a place of peace with a light neck rubdown to relax me before we started the wash & dry. Then during the wash, my hands were given the same love and attention with a massage. 


“I’m in Heaven…” and I didn’t even have my beautiful hair done yet, but it was perfect, anyways. 

For a moment I heard the music you hear in the commercials and I twirled my hair around in such the way you see Eva Mendes does in her Pantene commercials. 

After my relaxing hour at Aveda for less than $20 (yes, less than $20), I was off to give a little love to my very sad nails. Normally, I just have them buffed, but this time I wanted a little something extra and the lovely ladies at L’acqua Nail Spa Lounge were able to give me an express gel manicure. 




In 30 minutes my nails were picture perfect. If I had only had a few more hours to spend for a pedicure, facial and massages. But the Mother’s Day packages now available are affordably priced for a second-trip to the lovely nail boutique known for the working women’s mecca for getting ladies in and our during their lunch hour! 

MOTHER’S DAY SPA PACKAGES
 
So what’s a girl to do when she’s had her nails and hair done and no where to go? This one went to the Sleep Number store! Considering I’d always wanted to lay down on one and and find my sleep number, without kids and a few minutes to spare I went on in and laid down. 
 
I was in heaven again. No hearing any crying, no kids screaming, no iPhone ringing, and just comfort. 
 
I found out all kinds of stuff behind the Sleep Number bed and that a new app can even measure how you slept and how to make it your sleep time count. Considering the grossness of having two children sleep, eat and jump on your bed, I can confidently say that my bed is not in tip-top shape. And my back and sciatic nerve can concur. 
 
 
While I couldn’t put a Sleep Number bed in the back of the car, a girl can definitely plan for a future purchase, right? 
 
So after three hours of nothing but pure relaxation, I went to a shopping center and didn’t shop one bit. But I’ll admit, I eyed a few places I wanted to check out. And a few more to eat at…
 
I’ll be back. Especially for that $18 blowdry. And you or your mom will too. 
Happy Mom’s Day!
 
 
 



Make Mother’s Day Last with #Yourkidvid (Win an iPad Mini)

April 30, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Yourkidvid.

It’s no secret that moms like to be acknowledged for their hard work, especially on Mother’s Day. However, as my hubs can attest, appreciation doesn’t need to come in the form of big expensive gift to be meaningful (although I am still grateful for those diamond earrings that year). This is where “the thought is what counts” can really be put to work. Unfortunately, creativity, time and presentation are difficult for most people to put into action to create a picture-perfect gift for Mother’s Day that brings the tears, hugs and major brownie points.

Yourkidvideo


While framing that adorable shot of the kids at Christmas or Easter and presenting to mom is nice, it just doesn’t give the whole story…

Screenshot of “Madeline Loves Mommy” video from Yourkidvideo
But there is something truly magical when you hear the sound of a laugh, giggle or the words “I love you” that only a video can capture!

So with a little help from , you can give mom an unforgettable, unique personalized gift that she’ll cherish for years. The concept is genius: using all those cute videos of the kids on your smartphone and computer, Yourkidvid’s award-winning team edits them into an original cinematic experience with hand-picked music, color-corrected images, graphics and that special touch for a video that she’ll be proud to share with everyone including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and email, starting at only $29. (And for those of us with family that we don’t get to see often, this is the ideal gift for grandma to get on Mother’s Day too!)



SPECIAL OFFER: 
Get 20% off any Yourkidvid order with promo code: 1in85million until May 12, 2014.. It can be used towards all products (including gift cards).



Don’t think you’ll be able to get the videos off mom’s phone without her noticing? Then get her a and she can make her own video to cherish for years to come. 


There are 85 million moms in the U.S., but is there a mom in your life who is truly #1?

Yourkidvid, the professional video editing service for you and the little ones you love, is holding a contest to find America’s #1 mom.




To enter, like Yourkidvid on Facebook AND publish a description of why your mom is #1 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram using the hashtag, #1in85million.

Your entry can be as simple as sharing a moment, a story, a quick note or even a video about a lifetime of motherly love. Just include the hashtag #1in85million and like us at www.facebook.com/yourkidvid by May 11, 2014. A winner will be selected by the video editing geniuses at Yourkidvid, to receive an iPad mini plus a Gift Card for a free Yourkidvid Premium Video! The winner can give the prizes to their #1 mom or keep them . . . we won’t tell! Go to www.yourkidvid.com/1in85million for details and rules.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Yourkidvid.

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11 Monthly Subscription Boxes For Everyone {As Seen on TV}

April 16, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

affiliate-linksI’m getting to go a little out of my own box this week on Good Morning Texas with a look at the coolest trend to hit your inbox and mailbox: subscription boxes! 

I’ve scoured the Internet to find some of the coolest, my unique, and downright just too much fun to pass up subscription box concepts for the ladies, the gents and even Fido, too!
 
Here’s my rundown! 


For the Ladies:
 
Fabletics // Women’s Active Wear
 
Kate Hudson’s new line of stylish active performance clothing at half the price. Take an assessment and either stylist sends you full outfits or you can online shop as normal.
Starts at $49.95 for full outfit
 
Sent Her Way // Feminine Products
 
Sent Her Way takes the chore to the store out of every woman’s routine by shipping all her customized supplies each month! 
            
$9/month
                 
Stitch Fix // Styling and Clothes                
               
Stitch Fix is a personal styling service. Complete your style, size, and budget preferences, and they will send you a package of stylish goodies to try on at home, choose what you like and return what you don’t! And there’s even suggestions to how to wear it!
 
$20 styling fee goes towards your fix if you buy clothes. Each fix is priced in separate pieces or as discount when all are purchased.
 
For the Men:
 
Carnivore Club // Cured meats
 
Straight from Canada, each month members receive a faux-wood box filled with 4-6 handcrafted cured meats themed around French charcuterie, Italian Salumi, Spanish Chorizo, South African Biltong and Artisnal Jerky, etc.
 
$50-$55               
 
Dollar Shave of the Month, www.dollarshaveclub.com
Personal Shave Care
 
“Shave Time, Shave Money.” Get your personal grooming products sent monthly starting with you choosing the blade!
 
$1, $6, $9            
 
Mystery Tackle Box, www.mysterytacklebox.com
Sporting goods/fishing
 
“Discover Baits to Build Your Confidence.” Perfect for your fisherman for special tackle and bait options.
 
Starts as low as $13.75/12-month subscription    
 
For Everyone on Your List: 
 
Birchbox, www.birchbox.com
Makeup              
 
Each month subscriber received a box of carefully selected deluxe samples for women/men to try. Then they can purchase the full size versions on the Birchbox Shop.
 
Women’s $10/month for 4-5 deluxe samples. Men’s $20/month for 3-4 deluxe samples.
               
Escape Travel Box, www.escapemonthly.com
Travel-themed food/fun items
               
Can’t go vacation, then get one sent to you. A destination-inspired monthly delivery of luxury products to help you relax, renew and escape!
 
$49.95/month
 
Barkbox, www.barkbox.com
Pet Snacks         
 
Tell us how big your dog’s bark is. Toys, gifts & gadgets for every dog size.
$18-29/month, plans available at every length. 
 
Stunner of the Month, www.stunnerofthemonth.com
Sunglasses                         
 
Fun sunglasses of every shape, size and look.
 
$9
 
Naturebox, www.naturebox.com
Natural Snacks 
 
Full size healthy snacks sent straight to your door. Three box sizes that fit your diet like No-GMOs, no-gluten, no-dairy.
 
Pick size/price. Starts around $20/month              
 
 

How GameStop Changed My “No Gaming Zone” Rule

February 19, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Note: I was invited to an event at GameStop to learn about gaming and products. I was given a gift card, but all thoughts here are my own. 


Until about 60 days ago our home was a “No Gaming Zone.”


We didn’t own a DS, PS, Wii, or any of those things. I really didn’t see them as useful or positive for kids or adults alike. 

That was before I stepped into a GameStop at Christmas time to learn a little about gaming. Upon entering, I felt like I was in a whole new world of lingo, battery needs, cords and more. Thankfully I had help with “translation” from a friendly GameStop team member who spent almost an hour helping me learn the basics on personal gaming systems and consoles. Needless to say after my trip, my son was a proud recipient of his own Nintendo 3DS XL – Mario & Luigi Dream Team Bundle.



What was the change of heart? Why did I decide that gaming could be ok?

Let’s start with the stats. From the UK Millennium Cohort Study of 11,000 kids tracked over 10 years: 
  • Kids who watched 3+ hours of TV, specifically between ages 5-7, had increased behavioral problems
  • When video games were introduced to kids as young as 5, there was no effect on the child’s attention, behavior, or emotional health
  • Many studies suggest that video games help improve hand-eye coordination, memory formation, and can even help dyslexic children to read better
  • Basically, games aren’t bad for kids!
And another study from the Entertainment Software Association suggests that games are social: 
  • 16% play with parents
  • 40% play with friends
  • 17% play with their spouse or significant other
  • 34% play with other family members
  • Video games are a family activity
  • 40% of parents play video games with their children at least weekly
  • Most video games being sold are not inappropriate for kids
  • 73% of the 245.6 million video games sold in 2011 were rated Everyone (E), Teen (T) or Everyone 10+ (E10+)
  • 91% of games rated by ESRB in 2012 are E, T or E10+
And after an afternoon with GameStop (and a very patient and friendly team member), I learned that it’s even possible to afford games with the PowerUp Program. With both a free and paid version, you can reap real benefits. With a Pro membership at $14.99 annually, you score even more points for purchases and get access to exclusive offers, news and events.  You also get special bonus privileges including a welcome coupon that can score you a free game upon completion of online activation. Plus, 10% discounts on all pre-owned game and accessories purchases and 1 year of Game Informer magazine.



And until Feb. 28, there’s one more benefit you’ll want to ensure you take up on. 

Inspired by the amazing journey portrayed of the new Lightning Returns™: FINAL FANTASY ® XIII (not one of my kid’s games) this month’s Epic Reward Giveaway by GameStop will send one lucky winner and a guest on a trip of a lifetime.

The lucky winner and a friend will take a paid trip (food, travel, lodging and spending money
included) to Las Vegas for a dinner and a show. Then they will head to Paris, France to see the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower with a pocket full of spending money to splurge and experience some of the world’s best shopping. It doesn’t stop there. Next stop is Cairo, Egypt to visit the Giza pyramids, the Sphinx Egyptian Museum and the Khan el-Khalil Bazaar. Lastly, they will finish up in Costa Rica by riding ATVs and taking a zip line through the jungles and completing the day by relaxing at a luxurious spa.

PowerUp Rewards members that make transactions at a GameStop store or at www.GameStop.com throughout the month of February will be automatically entered for a chance to win this amazing prize. Eligible transactions include pre-ordering, buying games and accessories or making a trade.

PowerUp Rewards ProTM members automatically receive two entries with each purchase or
trade*. Members can also use their PowerUp Rewards points to get additional entries.

Now that’s a “game” worth playing! But remember you’ve got only until the end of February to enter. 

For more information on becoming a GameStop PowerUp Rewards member, visit www.PowerUpRewards.com and for more information about the GameStop® Epic Reward GiveawayTM, visit www.PowerUpRewards.com/EpicReward.

And remember if you win and you need a plus one, I can make arrangements. 


Organize and Digitize Handwritten Recipes to Your Own Online Cookbook

January 3, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Note: I was provided complimentary services for purposes of this review. 

Over the hustle and bustle of holiday cooking I became nostalgic for smells and tastes for Grandma’s banana bread and other recipes that made up my childhood. While I had written down many of them over the years, calling her at the last minute for her recipe for meatloaf or the special ingredient she put in her macaroni and cheese, I realized that most of her recipes as well as other handed-down family recipes, were all still captured in a small red metal box. 


When I had the chance to look in the box, I loved looking at the handwriting, the fragile personalized recipes cards women used before the days of home printers or even typewriters, and the other little notes on the recipes that reminded her of how grandpa liked it or that special touch that had made it her own. For a family engrained in food as much as ours, this little box was more like a piece of history over Christmases and family long gone than utility. 


As wonderful as the box was, I wanted to use recipes, too. But if I used these recipes while I cooked they would be covered in grease and flour in no time, so I needed to record them for my own use and protect their original source. And even more so, I wanted to be able to share them with the rest of my family. However, the time it would take to transcribe, input and format the recipes wasn’t something I had a lot of time for, much less where I would upload them and be searchable.




With Dish Dish, members can digitize their recipes in an online cookbook – easily accessible from any computer or mobile device (using their iPad/iPhone App – and Android app to follow soon). This allows you to store recipes, search, add photos, add notes, keep private when preferred or search other Dish Dish members’ recipes, make shopping lists, plan menus, print, share over social media or email, and access all of this while at home or on the go.



Dish Dish offers a free account that includes many great features. However, the Pro account for only $19/year includes access to the menu planner, special printing options, decorative printing templates, embedding videos with recipes (you can be your own Food Network star), adding multiple photos with recipes, and the opportunity to have 20 recipes transcribed/uploaded for the member by scanning, mailing, faxing or emailing. And Dish Dish is also including a free trial to the Dish Dish recipe importer tool so take the time out of uploading your own recipes! 

Take a look at my family cookbook here. I can’t wait to try the Greek Chicken with Pine Nut Dressing and the Bohemian Coffee Cake! I’m planning to make each of these dishes this year and upload a photo to accompany the recipe! 



What a great way to organize those recipes and then have the opportunity to share them with your family members as an online cookbook throughout the year! And even better, you could download your online cookbook as a PDF so you could print out the recipes once they’ve been uploaded for useful and thought cookbook gift for Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving or next Christmas. 

Check out http://dishdish.us to begin organizing and creating your online cookbook today! 

Gifts that Give Back: Reinventing Blocks, One Honduran at a Time with Tegu

December 19, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Disclaimer: I received product for purposes of this review. 

I always love the idea of giving a gift that not only gives your giftee something, but also can make a little impact in the world. Last year ‘s gifts that give featured some amazing ideas from World Vision Gift Catalog, Impact Foods, Fresh Cup of Hope and Cardraising. This holiday I found some amazing items that anyone would help you score big this season, but even more because you made are helping to make a big change in the world like Tegu Blocks. 

Do your kids love LEGOs? Well honestly what kid doesn’t? They allow kids to create whatever their imagination can dream up.  Much like that idea, Chris Haughey returned from Honduras with a vision to create a for-profit business that would have a transforming effect on the lives of Hondurans from start to finish (the full story of how Tegu is making changes can be found here.) So he created Tegu, the magnetic wooden block system that has no limitations for building. 

Nominated by the Toy Industry Association (TIA) for the prestigious 2014 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award, Tegu’s magnetic wooden blocks come together with their iconic “click-clack” sound, introducing a new spin on a classic toy that offers unmatched building possibilities in durable, safe, and natural materials.  Tegu encourages the types of unscripted, imaginative play that is now considered to be one of the best forms of learning by many childhood development experts.


But this season Tegu doesn’t end there on giving back, but they have introduced The Tegu Elf!


Since Black Friday, whether you are in need of a quick dinner fix during the holiday madness (he’ll send you a gift card to a local restaurant!), a little afternoon mocha to keep their motor running (Starbucks gift card is on the way!) or they are feeling inspired by a local charity (he makes soup kitchen donations as well), #TeguElf may just come to the rescue. Now until Dec. 23, The Tegu Elf will be granting wishes for a plethora of lucky folks in need of a holiday S.O.S. including just throwing in extra products into your order like a carrying case or the magnetic wheel set. 


Reach The Tegu Elf with your  holiday “S.O.S.” moment using #TeguElf on FB, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest; he will respond to requests randomly to help make the season brighter. 

And you can still order your Tegu sets now with a 20% discount with code LAST CHANCE20 (and possibly with even a few extra sets courtesy The Tegu Elf) at http://www.tegu.com!


Building a Better Tomorrow One Block at a Time,

Give Gifts They’ll Love with Help from Walgreens Holiday Gift Guide

December 2, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 11 Comments

Disclaimer: I am a member of the Collective Bias®  Social Fabric® Community.  This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper amplification for Collective Bias and its advertiser.

With a Walgreens just around the corner from my house, I’m there all the time. If not to pick up the usual prescriptions or photos, I’m there to pick up any number of things including gifts! It’s like my own little secret to find last-minute Christmas gifts that are perfect for everyone including teacher gifts, neighbor gifts and co-workers. And best of all, Walgreens has all your unique wrapping needs to make your gift stand out and look like you spent hours making it look perfect!

So when work caused me to spend Thanksgiving away from my family, a long-time coworker/friend was kind enough to invite me to her home to join her family for Turkey Day. While I wasn’t able to be with my kiddos, the hospitality of her family not only made it bearable, but memorable, so I wanted to give a little token of my appreciation for allowing me to spend the day with them. 


And of course, I found all kinds of other gift ideas for other people, too! 

The stocking stuffers galore including a great display of Christmas socks and Christmas toiletries that anyone would love.


And I’m pretty sure I began shopping for gift wrap before I even found a gift. Aren’t these options ideal for the small things to the big items that are never easy to wrap. 

And who couldn’t miss these guys – the holiday “chorus.” I just couldn’t resist myself from hearing them all sing in unison. Check out the Walgreens “Chorus!”

One of the coolest things I found was an end cap display – when you buy two bottles of wine and a package of Ghirardelli chocolate, you’ll also receive a free festive red cardboard basket that’s perfect for gift giving, and all for a reasonable price! 

Trying to narrow down the options, I remembered while I was visiting with the family they mentioned that they were having a cooking decorating competition and it would be the last one before her son went to college. So when I saw this Ninja Gingerbread Cookie Kit in the holiday aisle, I just had to have it. Since I’m an apron fanatic, I thought adding a Santa apron would be a way to give signature gift from me. And to wrap it up just right, I found this adorable ceramic Santa cookie tray to use as part of the gift wrap AND as part of the gift. 

Using the red ribbon and these sparkly mitten nametags that almost could be double as pot holders for my culinary-themed gift, I put together a sophisticated gift that I’m so excited to give. 

Walgreens always has the right thing you are looking for and the unique gift wrapping options from quick-and-easy to beautiful and personalized. Make Walgreens part of your holiday shopping this year and don’t forget to sign up as a FREE Walgreens Balance Rewards member! Not only do you get discounts on thousands of items, but you also get money back! It only takes a minute to sign up and you can save even more money just for shopping! 

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping at Walgreens! 






It’s the Gift We all Knead: Massage Envy’ Holiday Special – 3 For Them + 1 for You

November 20, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 Comments

Want-it Wednesdays:

Disclaimer: I received a gift card to help promote this amazing deal for the holidays from Massage Envy DFW. 

While I love receiving a gift card for just about anything, I admit I normally end up spending them on necessary things like groceries and clothes and not on the fun stuff that Christmas is meant for. (Isn’t being an adult fun!?!) 



That’s why we get you something that you are forced to enjoy like manicures, clothes and massages, you can’t feel guilty about just appreciating a gift, right? It would rude to waste it. 

Now take a look at that Christmas list and see who could benefit from one hour of stress-free attention to work out those knots…I know everyone on my list would (and it’s a BIG list!) Then get the best reward by scoring a massage for yourself by just giving to others!

The Dallas-Fort Worth Massage Envy Spas have a special holiday offer starting today: buy three gift cards (or any combination that equals $225) and receive a free, one-hour massage session. This offer is only valid for purchase at the 33 DFW Massage Envy Spas, but can be redeemed nationwide at 900 locations. Massage Envy Spa gift cards may be used for any combination of products and services offered in any Massage Envy Spa nation-wide. Fourteen DFW Massage Envy Spas offer Murad® healthy skin facials. You’ve until December 24 to get your list checked off with this offer! 


Massage Envy DFW
Log on to http://www.massageenvy.com/regions/TX/Dallas.aspx to find the nearest Massage Envy Spa 
http://www.MassageEnvy.com
Massage Envy Spa DFW on Facebook
Twitter

Say Hola, Ni Hao & Bonjourno to Little Pim Kid Language Program

October 9, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Research showsthat a child’s brain is wired for picking up new languages easily up until around six years of age. Additionally, the exposure to additional languages helps children to be more successful in school. That’s why having my children enrolled in a bilingual school called Spanish Schoolhouse has been important to me before my children were even born.
Photo courtesy of Little Pim
But learning doesn’t stop at home; especially when mama doesn’t have a command of the language, either.

Little Pim, the award-winning foreign language-learning program for young children, has introduced a special-edition product line now available exclusively at select Toys“R”Us® stores nationwide. The new Spanish, Chinese, and English “Discovery Sets” include three DVDs and a LittlePim plush panda toy, which make learning a new language fun and easy for kids everywhere.

Between birth and the age of six, the human brain is pre-wired for language learning, and Little Pim helps families take advantage of this brief window, by making language learning easy, fun and effective. Their Entertainment Immersion Method® provides total immersion in the language. The method engages a child’s love of play watching real kids and animation. Little Pim’s proven repetition technique helps children retain new vocabulary.  

There’s nothing like hearing your kids actually want to watch an educational show instead of just cartoons! While I wondered if the videos would keep them both interested, they request watching them and enjoy watching them together! 

Inspired by Julia Pimsleur Levine, the daughter of Dr. Paul Pimsleur, creator of the Pimsleur Method, the popular language-learning program for adults, Little Pim was created by her own bilingual childhood.  The Little Pim program is available in 11 languages including Spanish, French, Chinese and Italian. 

And throwing in a stuffed animal never hurt to incentivize kids to do something either. To see how Little Pim works, check out a free 15-minute episode.

Little Pim Special Edition Discovery Sets
$39.95 exclusively at select Toys“R”Us®nationwide
toysrus.com
Ages 6 months-6 years
$39.95

A great gift idea for birthdays and of course, Christmas!


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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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