• Home
  • About
  • As Seen On
  • PR | AD
  • Working Together
  • Event Calendar
    • MamaChallenge.com Calendar
    • Submit Your Event
  • Contact

mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

  • Featured on TV
  • For Moms
  • Food
  • Parenting
  • DFW
  • Travel
  • Tech
  • Health
  • Style
  • Giveaways

Stuff his Stocking with this Man Must-Have: The iGrill for IPhone and IPad

November 27, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Tech Tuesdays:



As Texas residents there is a requirement that you own a grill. It’s like an extension of your kitchen and like many things also in Texas – the bigger the better. Thankfully, temperatures here allow you to cook outside ‘round the year except when Mother Nature throws you a loop about half-way through the grilling process.

I know from my own experience that there have been many times I’ve had the “perfect meal” ready to go…I just needed to cook the steaks. Unfortunately, you either have to stay and babysit the steaks OR put them on the grill, walk-away just for a second and then SOMETHING always makes you forget and you end up having some really well-done steaks. It’s like I just need a little steak cook for about 20 minutes to watch the meat and then tell me when they’re done…

And then there was iGrill. Your IPhone/IPad already does everything else. It’s already your phone, computer, assistant, baby camera/monitor (yes, I have that app), and everything else…well now you can add cook to its long-list of reasons you’ll never be able to go to another smart device. Created by iDevices, the iGrill is a wireless cooking thermometer that you plug into your meat and it alerts you on your device when the meat gets to the right temperature. Almost seems like cheating, right?

Whether you’re grilling, smoking or indoor cooking, the iGrill wants to be your new cooking assistant. Using two included probes, the iGrill device measures the temperature and using the free app on your IPhone, alerts you when you should come and check out your meat. Bottom line: You can stay inside, watch TV and then come out and take the meat out when it’s done. The app even provides you links to recipes from Jennie-O as well as a guide to making the perfect steak and even deboning a fish.

While I would say this baby is perfect for a man gift this Christmas, I can only imagine how my first turkey would have actually turned out if my IPhone would had woke me up from my accidental slumber rather than to wake up two hours later with a huge, burned bird. I think the iGrill might be the way to save many meals in the future…it’s wireless cooking at your fingertips.

iGrill
Starting at $79
Available at iGrill.com, Brookstone, and Apple
DISCLAIMER:
I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

Show ’em What You Got with a Hot Mama Apron

November 26, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Me Mondays:

After several days of cooking, cleaning, repeat, I’m reminded of some of the not-so-fabulous parts of being a mom at the holidays. While thankfully the pros definitely outweigh the cons, I’ll admit, moms make a lot of the holiday magic happen. From decorating the house, wrapping the gifts, creating the holiday meal and my personal favorite, cleaning the house. (tsk, tsk.) 

And that, as well as having several little dirty hands and faces around my house, is the reason I now love aprons. They solve so many issues and let’s face it, they can dress up your yoga pant ensemble in a whole new way. No longer does your look say, “mom that can’t fit in her jeans,” but says “mom that’s trying to create delicious meals and a clean house” (you notice I used “trying,” right?) I strive for the later one everyday. 

Over the last few years I’ve collected a few aprons, some that will never been used like the signed ones I cherish from Ted Allen and Paula Deen. Then there are the ones that are so cute, I reserve them for only AFTER I’ve made the mess to look cute when other people enter the room (or that moment when Food Network comes to my house to start filming my first cooking show.) Other aprons I have are so ugly, they should never see the light of day, so while I don’t mind getting them dirty and greasy, I just should let them go. Really. 



Then I was introduced to the flirty and functional aprons from Hot Mama Aprons. (How apropos for me in so many ways, tee-hee!) These locally made aprons created by Dallas mom, Jennifer Carr, were the product of a mom suffering from the same predicament; she was trying to find something that was cute to wear, but she didn’t mind wiping her hands on…so she actually sewed the hand towel right into the apron. (Why didn’t I think of that, right?) 


Kinda amazing, I think. And apparently, Paula Deen, the gals at Southern Living and many others thought the same thing, so her designs received lots of press. And when Paula and Southern Living says “two thumbs up”, you know that you must have done something good. 

And just like a good Southern woman should have, Hot Mama Aprons even have a holiday design, so you can look your very best even when you might be doing some dirty work. At least you’ll look good. And with a long holiday season in store, you might just have to buy two (especially since it’s free shipping for a limited time!)


Now go be the hostess with the mostess (or at least look like it.) 

Get Innovative this Holiday with the Innotab 2s – Toy Pick 2012

November 21, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Wow Mom! Wednesdays – Holiday Edition:

I admit: my four-year old can operate my IPad better than I can. 

Unfortunately, while letting him use my device at first allowed me to get through a nice dinner out to eat or a long wait at the doctor’s office, it has now become an issue. I mean I have to ask my son when I can use the IPad… Not to mention me always reminding him not to have his drinks or snacks around it or his sister coming by and knocking it off the table. So something had to happen. And getting him an IPad was not the option, so mom had to get innovative…That’s the InnoTab2s!



Toy Features
  • Pre-loaded with FREE onboard activities including one tilt sensor game, one augmented reality game, one e-book, art studio app, notes app, friends list, calendar and calculator to get started. (Sounds like your first smartphone, right?)
  • Hundreds of apps for download: Kids can engage with their favorite licensed characters by downloading one of more than 200 apps*, including games, e-books and more that teach kids reading, logic and creativity; visit VTech’s Learning Lodge Navigator for more information
  • With 2GB onboard memory and expandable SD card slot available to accommodate SD cards up to 32GB, the InnoTab2 keeps your child engaged
  • *NEW* Rotatable camera for memory capture: Features a new rotatable digital camera and video recorder that allows kids to capture memories of themselves or their friends
  • Customizable: Enables kids (up to four users) to personalize the InnoTab 2 by creating their own user name and avatar, a voice greeting, typed greeting and photo wallpaper
  • And what makes the InnoTab 2s more special than the Innotab2? The InnoTab 2s Learning App Tablet with secure Wi-Fi contains all the product features of the InnoTab 2, plus a secure wireless connection to VTech’s Learning Lodge Navigator for easy and secure downloading of games, e-books, music and more.  (Yep, now you don’t have to plug it up to your computer to get an update or a new app!)

Overall: Get your IPad back and rest assured that the content your kiddo is looking at is education and entertaining, but always approved by you. And at less than $100, than the InnoTab 2/2s is way cheaper than Ipad and much more durable too!)


InnoTab 2 and 2s from VTech
Designed for 3-9 years old boys and girls (comes in blue and pink)
Depending on the model, it’ available for around $69.99 -$99.99 at Target, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and other major retailers, and online at www.vtechkids.com and www.amazon.com.

DISCLAIMER:
I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

Don’t Leap for Leapster, Go for MobiGo2: Toy Pick 2012

November 21, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Wow Mom! Wednesdays – Holiday Edition:


IPad. Nintendo DS. Leapster. Leapster Explorer. MobiGo.
Yes. There are a lot of handheld gaming devices out there. And for a mom just stepping out of todd’s time with simple toys that made sounds and had lights, I’m now having to consider what can teach my kid along with what cartridges go with what. And after much research and testing (my four-year old really had to take one for the team), the new VTech MobiGo 2 is one of the best options around – especially for the preschool/early elementary set.

The new MobiGo 2 is a educational handheld system that allows kids to enjoy on-the-go play and hone their creativity all while learning basic skills such as math, vocabulary, spelling, reading, logic, drawing and more.  Of course, like all the others you can buy several of your kid’s favorite characters and shows like Thomas the Tank Engine, Jack and the Neverland Pirates, and Disney Princesses to play in addition to the fun already installed programs.
Sound like a lot like a Leapster? In some ways they do the same things and even look a lot alike. If you really want to take compare them, you can see the side-by-side. The price of all the accessories will stand out most of all, as well as, the upgraded MobiGo system’s features – the photo viewing! This baby allows you to import your own photos, tag your photos, create mic-activated fun photo effects and set photos as wallpaper. However, there is a lot more cool stuff where that came from.


Toy Features
  • Two NEW ways to play: MobiGo 2 comes equipped with a NEW motion sensor and microphone in addition to the touchscreen:
    • The NEW motion sensor provides total game control, allowing kids to create action movements within games and programs while playing
    • The NEW microphone provides different methods of game play. Blow into the microphone to move objects, blow off dust, or initiate other special effects. Or speak into it to give a command or trigger an action 
  • QWERTY keyboard helps kids become familiar with a keyboard layout
  • Pre-loaded with FREE games: MobiGo 2 also functions as an e-reader, photo album, photo viewer and art studio and coloring book, and comes pre-loaded with three great games that take advantage of the product’s many features
  • Numerous apps for download: The expanded onboard memory allows kids to store more fun. More than 80 other apps are available for download at the VTech Learning Lodge Navigator™ at www.VTechKids.com/Download.  
Overall: The VTech MobiGo 2 allows you to combine that durable first camera, teaching assistant and your kid’s game device into one product for a reasonable price.
MobiGo 2 from Vtech
Designed for 3-8 years old boys and girls (comes in multicolor and pink)
Available for around $59.99 at Target, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and other major retailers, and online at www.vtechkids.com and www.amazon.com.

DISCLAIMER:
I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

Get Ready to Robot with Cogsley – Toy Pick 2012

November 21, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Wow Mom! Wednesdays – Holiday Edition:


When I was growing up, my coolest toys were my Peaches N’ Creme Barbie, My Little Pony, Rainbow Brite and Teddy Ruxpin. At the time Teddy was the coolest thing in the world because his eyes and mouth moved while his onboard cassette played so it “seem” like he was talking. 

Thanks Wikipedia for the childhood throwback.

Hey, it was cool for 1985.

Fast forward to 2012 and your cool, interactive toy is no longer a furry bear that looks like a character from Showbiz Pizza, but a robot that can dance, sing and even teach your kid Chinese. Let me introduce you to Cogsley from VTech. 
Teddy doesn’t hold a candle to Cogsley.

Toy’s Features:
  • Cogsley comes with a set of 30 chips that create movements, sounds, and images and animations on the LCD display. The chips help Cogsley teach children skills including letters, counting, words, manners and even basic phrases in Spanish, French, Chinese and German. (Thank goodness he even comes with a storage backpack to carry his chips, so when you have a little ones you can try to keep up with them!)
  • Cogsley also sings, dances and exercises with music and songs.
  • He has five interactive body movements including twistable ears and a spinning nose and eyes, to help enhance children’s motor skills.
  • He even has a sound detector so that if the robot “hears” a clap, sing or shout, the robot will respond with a variety of expressions and movements.

Overall: This is a great starter technology toy that’s fun and educational before your kids enter the world of Nintendo, PlayStation and Apple.


Cogsley from Vtech
Designed for 3-6 years old boys and girls (while it’s perfect for a 3 year-old, 6 year-olds might be a little less excited.)
Available for around $39.99 at Target, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and other major retailers, and online at www.vtechkids.com and www.amazon.com.

DISCLAIMER:
I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

Light Up Your Legos with LiteBrix

November 15, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Wow Mom Wednesday:

The turkey hasn’t even been bought but the Christmas presents are already beginning to build (waiting for someone to wrap them.) While my son has alerted me he wants only one thing from Santa this year (a Thomas the Tank Engine Trackmaster set that is almost impossible to find), I know that he’ll still expect a few other things under the tree. However, since he’s got a LOAD of Thomas already and has also created quite a Lego inventory, where does a mama look for ideas. 

What to get, What to get, What to get.

Designed to shine a light on kids’ creativity, the Lite Brix Super Light Building System from Cra-Z-Art is the next level of building blocks. The light-up building construction sets feature translucent bricks with battery powered LEDs (via a battery pack) that cycles through four different colors.

Your kids can transform their creations into spectacularly-lit masterpieces for daytime or nighttime play, but best of all – these building blocks can work with your other sets (hello, Legos!)

While we got to get our hands on a “Space Trooper”, you can create an entire light-up city, or mix and match and make into tons of amazingcreations with the LITE BRIX systemlike space shuttles, to racecars, fire stations, an airport and more. While I thought I would be able to open up the box and just let him run wild, he did need me to put together the pieces to show him how it worked. My son is 4 though and the box clearly notes ages 6+, however, I did need the directions to figure out how to put it together initially. But once we finished, there definitely was a “wow, mom!” reaction.



One note to families with younger siblings: our set-up time was best AFTER the younger kiddo went to bed so I didn’t have to worry about small pieces.

Lite Brix Super Light Building System
Available at Toys R Us stores nationwide and Barnes and Noble.
Prices vary from $19.99


DISCLAIMER:

I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)


7 Facebook Auction Sites You Should Like: Your Guide to Facebook Auctions

October 30, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Tech Tuesdays:

Facebook has brought us so many things:  the ability to communicate with long-lost friends, quietly stalk old boyfriends and brag about the cool places you are going to. Actually, I love Facebook and it’s amazing what one website has allowed us to do (or in my case, not do.) And now it’s brought us the easiest shopping experiences possible – via Facebook auction.

If you haven’t had the chance to participate in an online auction to snag the trendies jewelry pieces or cutest kids clothes, then you shouldn’t start. Honestly, like Pinterest, it makes spending time you don’t have feel like you might miss an opportunity to learn the secret to eternity if you don’t scroll down the page for a few pages and type those four letters : S-O-L-D.

I know I came by my first Facebook auction honestly…I heard about it from a friend who had “liked” the page and decided, that I would snoop and see what she liked. Shouldn’t have done that. I found myself at Jewelry Nut Auctions, had bid on the must-have necklace of 2012 and then within a few hours had received an invoice, paid via PayPal and then around a week later had a cute little delivery. It was so easy it hurt and that started my newest addiction.

After a “why didn’t I think about that?” moment, especially since so many of them are DFW-based… I found out I was a little late to the game.  Jewelry Nut claims they were the first Facebook online auction site dating to 2011, but the concept has spread like wildfire and there are many others including adorable kids clothes that work just the same way. 

The 2012 necklace of the year, inspired by J. Crew. Grabbed mine on Jewelry Nut  for around $26. (Grabbed this shot from Cupcake Life.)

The concept is easy. Basically 2-3 times a week for one hour, the site loads up their goodies for the night, you bid on them and then if you make your bid before the quantity is out, it’s yours. The rest of the time the Facebook site is showing previews of the things you can bid on during auction nights. It really is genius and after looking at some of the “Like” counts on these, you can see that I’m not the only addict.

Just make sure you check out the basic rules first before your first bid, but here are the normal fundamentals before you jump in blindly.
  •          Check to see if you need to register for bidding
  •          No returns or exchanges
  •          Invoices should be paid immediately (within 48 hours)
  •          Shipping is normally included


Still think you need to try a taste? Here’s just a few of the ones I’m following:


Jewelry Nut Auction: (Jewelry)
Auctions are twice a week on Monday and Wednesday, 8 – 9 PM CST.
Also, they recently began Style Nut Auctions (Women’s Clothing and Accessories), which are on Wednesdays at 8 PM. (Love these gals since they are local yokals from Fort Worth!)

Smocked by StellyBelly: (Children’s Clothing)
Auctions are twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8:30 PM CST.
Accessories Auction: (Jewelry/Accessories)
Auctions are twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8:30 PM CST. (More Dallas ladies with their business hats on.)
Accessory Concierge: (Jewelry/Accessories)
Auctions are twice a week on Mondays at 11 AM and Wednesdays at 8 PM CST. (See the trend here? Dallas likes its accessories!)
Southern Tots: (Children’s Clothing)
Not necessarily an auction, but sales happen Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursdays.
Zdori Auctions: (Jewelry)
Auctions happen Tuesday – Thursdays from 11 AM – 1 PM. This site says they even offer items for free if you claim them in time or share enough of their site with your friends on Facebook. (Hello again from big D!)
Smocked Auctions: (Children’s Clothing)
Auctions are twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 PM CST. (Another lovely Dallas-based company.)

Which ones are you following? Am I missing one? This addict needs another fix!

Love Your Kid’s Laces with Shoe Fobbz

October 10, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Wow Mom Wednesdays

While I’m on top of the cool things for five-year olds, I’ll admit, I’m not the authority on what makes six-year olds (and up) say, “That’s cool mom.” 

Earlier this summer I got the chance to get my hands on 16 sets of Gutzy Gear, a line of backpack straps and patches to personalize and accessorize your kiddo’s backpack. I shared them with my son’s class as a back-to-school gift and the class went wild. I wasn’t ready for the reaction, but I’ve learned that I should keep my ear to the ground when it comes to what’s the next big thing. (You remember those rubberband bracelets, right?)

Gutzy Gear gives kids a chance to personalize their backpack with removable patches.

So when I caught wind of Shoe Fobbz, I was willing to see what the buzz was about. As a Croc-wearing family (we have dozens, really), I was already aware of Jibbitz (the genius idea to personalize your Crocs with little charms that your kids will bug you to have.) However, Fobbz are the equivalent of Jibbitz, but for tennis shoes. 

Since we were currently are embarking on “real shoes” for winter versus our sandals for summer, these made our transition from our “Lego and Thomas Crocs” to big-kid shoes much easier. Best of all, at less than $5 and cute packaging, I’ve be using these as favors for birthday gifts, so the kids then switch them out at school. 

So when my kid found out I had the Halloween monsters pack, I got a “cool, mom!,” so it’s totally means it’s worth a share for “Wow Mom! Wednesdays!”

DISCLAIMER:
I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)


Combat Germs with a Homemade Hand Sanitizer

August 21, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 Comments

September marks the start of the season every parent comes to dread: cold and flu season. As children take their play indoors, germs circulate more quickly, leading to six months of increased infections that can, at any point, turn a day of school or work into cancelled meetings and time spent coughing on the couch.

A great homemade hand sanitizer and these cute bottles inspired from  http://santasgiftshoppe.blogspot.com  make great playdate, school gifts and shower ideas.

As with all illnesses, prevention is better than the cure. While many parents turn to hand sanitizer to kill germs, these store-bought concoctions can contain alcohol and harsh chemicals. Dr. Lawrence Rosen, a nationally recognized expert in Pediatric Integrative Medicine, shares this recipe for a gentler – and equally effective – homemade hand sanitizer:

Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Ingredients:
•       3 oz. filtered water
•       1 tsp. aloe vera gel
•       10 drops cinnamon essential oil
•       10 drops clove essential oil
•       10 drops rosemary essential oil
•       10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
•       20 drops lemon oil

Instructions: Mix ingredients in a 4-ounce spray dispenser, and shake gently. Spray on children’s hands, and teach them to massage the spray into their hands for 30 seconds. The result is a natural, chemical free, hand sanitizer to keep germs at bay.



Dr. Rosen, along with holistic-minded parent Jeff Cohen, recently published a book of natural remedies for nearly 100 common childhood ailments – everything from acne to urinary tract infections. The book, Treatment Alternatives for Children: Reduce Serious Side Effects with Natural Equivalents to Conventional Remedies for Common Childhood Ailments, is a resource for parents who want to find alternatives to prescription antibiotics and other conventional treatments that sometimes have harsh side effects. Like Dr. Rosen’s approach to preventing, and treating, the flu, each ailment is addressed from the perspective of the child’s overall well being.

Jackson’s Top 5 List: What to Get a 4-Year Old for His Birthday

July 20, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Recently my oldest, Jackson, celebrated his 4th birthday just the way he wanted: Angry-Birds style! It was a lot of fun to plan together and I’m sure that everyone had a good time! Jackson was blessed to have many of his best friends at the party and many great gifts from some very thoughtful people. Some of them found some gifts I’d never even heard of, while others had contacted me in advance asking what the birthday boy might want for his birthday. Funny enough we were so immersed in the birthday party, I had to do a little research to find out what things my little man might want for his birthday…


Here’s just a little of what we came across and what my son said were his favorites:

1. Angry Bird Blanket and Angry Bird Pillow


A boy with an Angry Birds Party was bound to get a few Angry Birds presents. And while he loved each of them, he’s in love with his new “softy,” his Angry Birds fleece blanket and an Angry Birds pillow. While these are not a matching set, they make the perfect complement for an Angry Birds fans. The blanket is large enough to wrap around my son and includes a little Angry Birds cap to keep him warm and cute. The pillow is like a bean-bag pillow and much more substantial than the other pillow pet type animals. He loves napping with them in front of the tv and as soft as they are, I don’t blame him.
Currently both items are available on Amazon.com for around $13 each.

2. Original Big Wheel™


Just as cool as it was when I was growing up, The Original Big Wheel™ is back!  Celebrating more than 40 years of being the “King of the Sidewalk,” and one of the best-selling ride-on toys of all time, The Big Wheels are almost as American as apple pie as baseball (and made here I learned too). The Original Big Wheel™ Race has a large 16” front wheel, a three-position “Grow with Me Seat” and sturdy plastic construction. Kinda like a rite of passage, The Big Wheels was a new addition to my kids’ growing fleet of cars, rolly toys and bikes.
Currently available at Toys R Us and Walmart for around $60.

3. Thomas the Tank Patio Set


My kid LOVES Thomas the Tank…Actually last year’s party was Thomas and I think he asked for Angry Birds just so mom didn’t have to repeat the same party. So when we came across the kid-sized Thomas the Tank Patio Set it was a done deal.  Featuring washable plastic tabletop with cool in-laid graphics that won’t scratch or peel, he looks just like a little grownup when he asks to eat al fresco. The patio set comes with a table, umbrella and two folding patio chairs, unfortunately the table is already fading a bit, but it’s perfect for the Thomas fan while spending time outdoors. I’m sure he’s asked to eat outdoors at least once a day since he got it.
Found these at Toys R Us and Walmart.com at around $35.
4. Thomas the Tank Toddler Swing


One of those things I didn’t expect my big boy to do was to point out something for his sister as a gift. Of course, it was still Thomas the Tank Engine, but being that it was for ages under 3, he understood he couldn’t ride in it, but only his sister could. I guess in his head at least it was Thomas the Train! Made by Kids Only, the Thomas the Tank Toddler Swing features cool details and art inspired by Thomas the Tank! This sturdy plastic toddler swings feature high-back supports for comfort and safety, adjustable safety seatbelts and colorful sculpted details that resemble the #1 useful engine. Best of all, there’s no assembly, so pull it out of the box with all the hanging hardware and heavy duty ropes all ready to get your swing moving in no time.
Currently available at Toys R Us for around $30.
5. Vtech Swith & Go Dinos
One of the perks of my job is that I get a chance to see what’s going to be coming out soon for kids. So when Vtech wanted to get our thoughts on the new Switch & Go Dinos, my son was stoked as soon as we opened the box!

Switch & Go Dinos features an entire line of seven durable, unique and collectable dinosaur toys, including four starter toys: Sliver the T-Rex, T-Don the Pteranodon, Tonn the Stegosaurus and Horns the Triceratops. Of course, what is more perfect for a boy than dinosaurs…except when it’s a dinosaur that turns into a car. Yep, how cool is that – a 2-in-1 toy! And because it’s from Vtech, they made it ubber cool with an LCD screen for customizable eye expressions and dramatic dinosaur and vehicle sound effects including dino facts! While it took a few times to show my 4-year-old how to make the dino go to car and car back to dino, as well as how to make all the sounds, but once he got it he was off for lots of fun playing with his new toy. This toy is such an obvious great option for anyone who isn’t sure if a kid is into dinosaurs or cars…my own wish is that it was motorized and could move on its own. Then it would be pretty close to perfect as THE gift for young boys this year!
Currently only available on Amazon.com and www.VTechKids.com for around $16. All seven Switch & Go Dinos are scheduled to be in most toy stores beginning Fall 2012.

Did you notice a big theme here? Even without trying, all the items here were red or blue! It’s like I tried to make them match, but it was my kiddo’s keen sense of style that actually made it work!:) I’m thinking next year I might start a Pinterest board just for present ideas for the kids so then I can just say, go look at my Pinterest for ideas for birthdays and Christmas. Now that’s a plan!

Disclaimer: I was provided all the products except for the Angry Birds pillow and blanket for purposes of this review. However, all views expressed are all my own.
« Previous Page
Next Page »

Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

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

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Save on Fun All Year Long! Code: MAMACHALLENGE

A Kid's Taste of the State Fair of Texas Fried Food Winners

Toys Gone Tech

SHOP MAMACHALLENGE!


More TV Segments Not To Miss

Patriotic Pie

Red, White and Blue: July 4th Treats

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Oh, Pumpkin! Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chips

MamaChallenge.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

You’ll LOVE This!

logo
Food Advertisements by

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Pictures Say a 1000 Words

mamachallenge

❤️Real Solutions for Real Parents
👩‍👧‍👦Food | Wine | Parenting | Travel | Life
📌ArlingtonTX
📧 autumn@mamachallenge.com

Mamachallenge.com
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!
Load More Follow on Instagram

Follow Along!

Tweets by @mamachallenge

Copyright © 2026 · Magazine Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in