Health Archives - Page 4 of 16 - mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents

What REALLY Happens: Lasik Laser Eye Surgery {Free Printable}

March 26, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 31 Comments

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK, with a look at her LASIK laser eye surgery, with the help of Kleiman|Evangelista and the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

Did it hurt?

That’s been the #1 question I’ve been asked since I had my Blade-Free HD IntraLasik at Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center.

So I want to share the experience from start to finish and answer one of those other questions that I’ve been asked the most – “Was it worth it?”

After my first consultation, I made arrangements for my very kind mother to be with me during the procedure only a week later. While the procedure lasts less than 15 minutes (yes only 15 minutes), I needed her there to be able to drive me home (and for me to take care of the kids), after the procedure.

I put on something comfortable and a little warm as well since the surgery suite is a little cool and once I was home after the procedure I was going to bed. (This is a perfect time to break out the stretchy pants or that fuzzy Velour suit sitting in the back of your closet.)

We arrived :30 minutes early so we could arrange for my two prescriptions (two sets of eye drops that were also obtained at the office) and to take something to allow me to relax. I was provided a small dosage of Valium, just enough to keep me calm and not to get too anxious as well as to make me sleepy after the procedure so I could let my eyes rest. (Note to self, you aren’t going out that night to show of your new eyes quite yet!)

Then just a few minutes later they called my name.

Show time.

I walked in to the suite to meet my doctor and the team of experienced professionals ready to make magic happen. While I’m a little foggy about what exactly happened step by step (see mention of Valium above), the doctor took a look at my eyes before the procedure at one of the many machines in the room. And then I was walked over to the laser area, seated comfortable and then it begin.

I’ll admit – it wasn’t like getting a massage. It was a little uncomfortable as my eyes were being completely changed! And with my astigmatism, that meant a little more under the laser. It’s not like I felt anything that hurt; it was just the feeling of a bright light, pressure to my eyes, and then we were done.

Meanwhile, my mother/chauffeur/caretaker/photographer took pictures of the whole thing while I was having the procedure. While I’ll admit it took me a few days to really look at these, it does show almost every part of the procedure – one shot at a time.

So here’s your disclaimer: if you want to see some really, up close photos of my procedure, be my guest. If your stomach is a little weak, I wouldn’t do it. Just remember, these photos are in no order of the procedure, but they are pretty wild what happens in the Lasik Suite. However, if you want to see a video that explains exactly what happens in a procedure like this, then take a look at this.

When it was done, they took another look at my eyes and said “Everything looks good.”

I was able to put on some shades (your eyes are uber sensitive after the procedure) and my mother walked me to the car.

As soon as we got home, I slid into bed.

I had hoped I would nod off to sleep, but two little kids that had gotten home from school wanted to check on me and I wanted to hug them.

They each visited me quietly in the bed and carefully kissed me so they wouldn’t touch my eyes. I was wearing my super awesome eye shields to keep them from hitting my eyes while I laid down), but they wanted to be extra careful.

Soon after I did begin to feel more pressure on my eyes. Actually I don’t have the words for the feeling since I hadn’t really had that sensation on my eyes before. Somewhere between having a tattoo (you know that feeling after you have it) and that straining feeling after a long day of staring at the computer. Since I’m not much of one for pain (like zero tolerance), I had my mom call the doctor to make sure it was normal to feel uncomfortable.

They did let her know for everyone the discomfort is different, so some people don’t feel anything, while others will feel pressure and pain. However, two Tylenol PMs took care of that and my anxiety, so soon I was off to sleep.

The next morning when I woke up, I took off my special sleepwear, ready to see if I could see.

Wow, I could! I mean like it was crystal clear due quite yet, but it was a huge difference than when I had woke up all the years before.

Before getting ready to go to my follow-up appointment that morning, as instructed, I put in my drops. (Actually my mama did, but I was definitely making use of having my mama time while mine was there!) The drops are a really important part of the Lasik process because they relieve a lot of the dryness and pressure from your eyes beginning to heal. The instructions from my doctor were to put in the medicated drops four times a day and the eye drops once an hour. Although that sounded like a lot, I crafted a little chart (after the one my mom sketched to use on me) that was able to keep me in check with my drops and added an alarm to my phone to remind me to take them.

Remember, this was a guide created by mamachallenge.com. Please remember to consult with your doctor for any prescription/dosage instructions post surgery.

PDF |

For someone like me who is often on the computer (yes, that same day I was back on the computer), eye drops will help you so much. AND while it wasn’t required of my Lasik, my regular optometrist had always told me getting up and getting away from the computer after so long in front of the computer was necessary for good eye health. So I was back on the computer, but not quite for the 10 hour stretch (at least not yet!)

When I returned the next day for my followup post-opp appointment at the Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center, I was able to meet with my doctor to see how things were going with my eyes after the surgery. After just a few minutes of me looking into the eye machines, he said things looked great and to continue to take the drops as instructed throughout the week.

And then I made my post-surgery appointment for a week and that was it.

Seems so easy, right? It was. (And no judgement on no makeup. Remember, no eye make up – that’s a rule for a week!)

And was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY.

I’ll share next time about what it’s been like since the appointment and of course, why not getting Lasik may actually be costing you money.

Yep, that’s right. It’s not as cheap as you think wearing glasses, contacts and all the other stuff that goes with it.

Don’t Miss this #mamachallenge moment:

What to Expect: First Lasik Appointment

March 15, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 12 Comments

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK, starting with the first LASIK appointment, with the help of Kleiman|Evangelista and the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

My junior year of high school had lots of good things happen. However, one of the two big moments that happened included getting braces AND glasses. While my prescription wasn’t bad, my astigmatism was. I tried contacts, but there wasn’t enough frustration or money to try to keep finding the “right” ones for me, so I gave up. From that point on, me and the glasses didn’t stray far from one another…and that’s been about 20 years ago.

And while I can tell you many funny stories about glasses, including the ways I’ve broken them, at one point I finally had enough.

In just one morning:

I had forgotten where I laid my specs down the night before, so I spent 7 minutes looking for them.
When I found them they were covered in little people fingertips and I had to clean them.
Then when I cleaned them they smeared even more.
I rushed to get in the car and had to switch my glasses for sunglasses (the ones I spent a fortune on for prescription glasses I wasn’t ashamed of.)
When I ran into the A/C, my glasses fogged up so I had wait for them to clear.
After sitting in a long meeting, the glasses slid down my nose so I pushed them about 10 times in between taking them off to rest my eyes and the headache I was beginning to feel.

…And that was all before 10 AM.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t look bad in glasses and have really built a style to wearing them. And while I never wear them on camera, they are on right before and right after that camera goes to “ON AIR.”

But at one point, you just want to make your life easier and get rid of the unnecessary crap that gets in your way and annoys you. This year was supposed to be about change. For the better. I’ve been making changes to make me happier and the best me I could be.

So after thinking about it for 10+ years, I decided to quit making wishes and making things happen. So to Google I went and found out I could make a free appointment to start the process with one the leader in LASIK, Kleiman|Evangelista and they had a location close to me. I wasn’t sure what the process was, but I figured this was the first way to figuring it out what’s next and it was free. What do you have to lose?

So here’s what happens at the first consultation (of course, each experience may differ based on the patient, location and person needs, but this will give you a basic feel for what will happen based on my experience at Kleiman|Evangelista.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FREE CONSULTATION LASIK APPOINTMENT

1. Enter the Waiting Room to check in and wait to hear your name.
I was surrounded by others just like me that either were getting the surgery or coming in for a first-time appointment. While you’re there you’ll be able to watch the other surgeries happening while they are happening with this lovely clear door. Yes, you can watch it from start to finish since it only last 15 minutes! (Of course, if you don’t want people to watch, they do that, too!

2. Next I was ushered into first room to receive basic eye exam as well as to look at the health of the eye.

3. Then I entered another room to take give me a real feel for what was going to happen in the procedure. (It only takes 15 minutes to do the procedure, but it’s amazing what happens in that time!) At this time I was given an opportunity to ask every question – big or small. Actually throughout the entire process, I was asked if I had any questions. While I had a few, I was able to find a lot of answers online at the website. However, I think the biggest one of course, like everyone is – “Is it going to hurt?” (And my answer to that I can share after my procedure next week!)

4. Next you’ll take a seat in another waiting room for another look at my eyes with an Ophthalmologist. I love that they were so thorough to make sure that I really was the ideal candidate for the procedure. (I was really nervous about the procedure but the fact that they kept checking everything so thoroughly made me feel that much more confident.)

5. Meet with your doctor to determine if you are a good or bad candidate based on all the records of your eye health examination.

Based on your candidacy, you’ll make your way back to the waiting area and meet with team area to get a breakdown of costs. Candidacy is based on several different factors, I found out during my appointment, But basically five majors ones:

You need to have stable vision.
You should be 18 years of age or older.
You should not be pregnant or nursing.
You have sufficient corneal thickness.
You should have realistic expectations.
You are a great post-procedure patient.

Find out more about if you are a good LASIK candidate.

6. If you are a good candidate, now you get to make the appointment. Depending on your schedule, you make your appointment for your surgery and cover all the dos and don’ts. Make sure to have your calendar with you so you can get a date on the calendar. A few things you’ll need to take into consideration when making your LASIK surgery is:

You will need to have someone to drive you home after the appointment. (Thanks, mom!)
You will go home that day and go to bed, so while recovery is quick, it’s not that quick! (Also, thanks to mom for watching the kids!)
You’ll not be able to go in a hot tub, pool or wear makeup for a week. (So don’t plan for that vacation yet.)
Followup with routine drops as prescribed. (I had two sets of drops and they’ll tell you exactly how and when to add them.)
Attend a few appointments to followup. (These appointments will be to make sure how your eyes are shaping up!)

7. Now all you have to do is wait for your LASIK surgery appointment!

Everyone is invited to make a free appointment Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 pm, with appointment to find out start the lasik process. However, there is quick test that can tell you right now if you’re right choice for them.

Now what? Next week I’m sharing my procedure experience, so make sure to stay connected!

Seeing things for the first time: I’m sharing everything you need to know about Blade-Free HD IntraLASIK, the newest and best LASIK treatment available at Kleiman|Evangelista Eye Center.

Live On. Give On. Give Back.

March 2, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 114 Comments

We’re excited to partner with the 2015 Bakken Invitational Awards to share stories of what it means to Live On. Give On. and Give Back. And we’re providing $100 gift card to help you share in the spirit of giving back to the community.

“Life isn’t about what you got, but what you gave.”

That’s a mantra that I like to say I live by, but when you take a look at the 12 Honorees for the 2015 Bakken Invitation Award you really understand what it means. Each of these extraordinary individuals shows how the will of the human spirit to overcome a life-changing medical challenge and then take control of “their second life” made possible by a medical device.

A global program launched in 2013, the Bakken Invitational was named for Medtronic co-founder, Earl Bakken, who developed the first external, battery-powered, wearable pacemaker, an invention that has saved millions of lives and shaped the modern medical device industry.

It’s from incredibly giving individuals like the Bakken honorees, that people just like our family have touched from the giving spirit of others. From the college scholarships I received to get me through college or my son’s wish to go to Disney World by an organization that grants wishes for children with life-threatening conditions, our lives have forever been changed for the better because gave.

Photo credit: TR Photography

Have you been given an extra life and are living with a medical device or using medical technology?

Share it here and Medtronic Foundation will donate $10 to Project HOPE to help ensure that medical technology is available in underserved communities around the world.

One of the honoree’s stories that really touched me was that of Tanya Hall. Like my son, Tanya was born with a hole in her heart and a heart murmur. At 9 she had open heart surgery and then at 21, she was diagnosed with a number of heart arrhythmias requiring her to get a pacemaker. While she may have had the medical support she needed, she found herself frustrated with the lack of cardiac patient support groups in Australia and at a loss for how she would spend the rest of her life, so she founded hearts4heart.

Knowing first-hand the need for finding support for heart issues when my son was born, the story was even more touching as she also was the patient. So to carry on the work of educating, creating awareness of heart diseases, and to continue to provide support to others, goes to show the huge measure of her character and the real size of Tanya’s heart.

[Tweet “”Life isn’t about what you got, but what you gave.” @mamachallenge #LiveOnGiveOn AD “]

looking at her story, any of the other honoree’s stories or even mine, it’s clear that medical technology can dramatically improve the life of one person. The Bakken Invitation Award Honorees demonstrate that it can have social impact that reaches beyond just that person.

Are you ready to make a difference?

Which Bakken honoree inspires you?

Share your choice by commenting below and you could win a $100 VISA gift card to do some good in your community. (Valid only for U.S. citizens, 18 years and older. Winner will be selected on March 18, 2016.)

For continued inspiration connect with Medtronic Foundation on Twitter and the Bakken Invitational on Facebook.

New Way To Keep Your Kids From Getting Sick

February 25, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 6 Comments

Wanna know the best way to keep your kids from getting sick? It’s washing their hands! But with this new mom-created invention, hands are 3X cleaner keeping you and your family healthier.

Kids are dirty. Ask any parent how often they get sick now that they have kids. They’ll tell you – once it gets in the house, everyone’s got it.

The nose is running, there’s coughing and sneezing…It’s all over their hands and then all over you. It’s gross. And while none of us like to see our kiddos ill, it’s worse when it comes knocking on your immune system.

However, no matter how powerful the bug or virus that takes over your house, doctors will still tell you the best, easiest and cheapest way to keep from getting sick is…to wash your hands.

Yep, genius right? You were ready for me to tell you some huge CIA-level secret, right?

Well, the CIA isnt’ involved, but a lot of folks are thanks to a just launched kickstarter campaign for SCRUB BUGS.

These cute little critters are a parent’s answer to making sure kids don’t just “wash their hands,” but wash them 3X better, ensuring those germs are actually washed away.

Mom Kelly Stuart connected the dots one day watching her kids brush their teeth and thinking about how surgeons use brushes to wash their hands. She realized that if kids could use a brush, like the surgeons, they too would have cleaner hands. And the idea behind Scrub Bugs was born.

Using Scrub Bugs will help kids:

Clean hands 3X better than normal handwashing
Make washing hands fun
Create better personal hygiene skills
Make it harder to spread germs – making you and them healthier

Real life in-use tests prove that kids wash their hands more often, with more pressure, and for longer with Scrub Bugs.

So while you can’t quite get your hands on this little tool now (production starts in May), you’ll want to make sure to keep up with this Kickstarter campaign!

What’s your best tip for keeping kids from getting sick? Would you get a Scrub Bug?

Want more tips on your kid’s health?

Top 10 Healthiest Restaurants for Kids

January 20, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

Going out to eat with the kids isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to watch what they are putting in their bodies. Here is a quick list to the Top 10 healthiest restaurants for kids (and hopefully for you, too!) All of these also have gluten-free options so make sure to ask your server!

Dining out is sometimes for fun, sometimes out of necessity. Unfortunately for me, it’s normally, out of the fact that I didn’t listen to any of my own advice to plan in advance or cook something in the slow cooker. Mostly it’s just out of my total disdain for dishes.

However, when you have kids, it takes on a whole new platter of concerns including behavior, budget and belly (well what they are putting in it them that is.)

Zoe’s Kitchen, locations in 11 states
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Zoe’s Kitchen. And not because it’s healthy, but because it’s fresh…and so good. While there is a kids’ menu available that includes grilled chicken fingers, cheese quesadilla and fruit, it’s the fact that my kids prefer to just eat off the menu. And instead of my go-to rotisserie chicken, I can make one call for a family meal complete with chicken, steak and veggie kabobs, 2 sides (and believe me I could subsist on the white beans and pasta salad alone), salad, and hummus with pita. With gluten, vegan and several under 500-calorie options, Zoe’s gives you much more than the same ole, same ole.

El Fenix, 22 locations
A Dallas institution, El Fenix is a family concept that has been sharing their family favorite recipes since 1911 and has been going strong ever since.

Late last year, El Fenix stepped up to the table to offer not just your favorite Tex-Mex options, but healthy ones for your kids! Developed by a local high school culinary student in partnership with Medical City Children’s Hospital in Dallas, El Fenix’s Kids Fit Menu allows kids to build their own meals by choosing 2 veggies and fruits from an array of delicious, low-fat/calorie entrées and sides, along with a glass of apple juice. The kids won’t feel like they’re missing out with these picks especially the sweet nachoes with apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon, raisins and a little whip cream.

And best of all (for your budget), you can try the new El Fenix Kids Fit Menu (kids 12 and under) now until Feb. 7 for just $1.99 instead of the normal $4.99 when you use this coupon.

Vitality Bowls, 4 states with 20+ locations
While this new hot spot only has one Texas location, the West Coast has long embraced this uber-healthy joint that doesn’t just feed your hunger, but gives you body the things it needs to work at its best. Vitality Bowls® superfood café is looking to revolutionize the new idea of its Açaí Bowls®. Made from a thick blend of the Amazon’s antioxidant-rich açaí berry, the bowls are choc full of fruits, veggies, granola, and nuts for every palate. But the menu also includes smoothies, juices, wraps/paninis and salads served all day. While the idea sounds good to pile a lot of healthy things in one bowl, I wondered if the kids would dig in.

Much to my doubts, my daughter who is often the hardest to convince, said it was tasty and pretty, too. Just remember the bowl is cold, so this ain’t an oatmeal alternative. This is different than what you’ve had before, but change is good. And this change is real good for both of you. Plus they serve a chocolate covered banana too, so there’s always room for chocolate – as long as there’s fruit, too 🙂

Looking for a healthy option for unique food that can be on your 2016 Resolution List, the kids are going to like and to-go? Vitality Bowls, a local cafe that prides itself on serving the most creative superfoods including bowls, paninis, salads and smoothies. Using real good, feel good foods like açaí and goji berries, bee pollen, flax seed, and other fruits, your bowl isn’t just food but fuel to make you healthier inside and out. A look into this new offering in Irving/Las Colinas is #coming soon to the blog. #ontheblogsoon #healthy #mamachallenge #VitalityBowls #NewYou #healthyeats #VisitIrving #DallasFoodNerd #acai #goji #flax

A photo posted by MamaChallenge.com | Autumn Reo (@autumnreo) on Jan 6, 2016 at 7:50pm PST

Jamba Juice, 26 states with 800 locations
It’s easy to want to roll into happy hour after school to get the kids a little something before dinner along with a 44 oz. slushie. You might be getting it half off, but that starts to mount up – and I’m not just talking about your pocket book. Consider what could happen if you took all the veggies and fruits we all could use more of and put it in a cup with a straw…happy and healthier kids. Sure, you can make some poor decisions at a smoothie bar, but the kind folks at Jamba Juice can lead you into the right direction for exactly what you want and need. Asking to lighten it up (halving the calorie count) and ordering the almond-milk smoothies can give your kids the sweet kick they want without all the sugar, grease or sodium found in many fast-casual eateries. And Tuesdays after 3 kids can get a free smoothie when you order one. SCORE!

Chick-Fil-A, 1850 locations
Oh, yes, one of our favorites! Between the cows, Mom Valet and diet lemonade, we’ll be lifetime friends with this family-focused establishment. While Chick-Fil-A is home to the beloved fried chicken sandwich (among the waffle fries, chicken minis, etc.), they are making a huge effort to give parents options for their kids when it comes to healthier eating. Launched last year, the grilled chicken nuggets kids’ meal is full of protein, low in fat and calories. And if mom and dad are looking to cut their calories, too, a grilled chicken sandwich or grilled nuggets with the new kale salad can rock your world and not your waistline.

Photo: CFA Facebook

Pei Wei, 200 locations
Pei-Wei makes us happy in so many ways. From knowing who we are and what our order is when they pick up the phone to giving us a freebie with My Wei Rewards, when we need a little Asian flavor in our life, it’s our way to go Pei Wei (cute, right?) While you can go big with a big bowl of noodles, go with the Lighten Up menu, choose smaller plates to keep your portions in check or ask them to “Stock Velvet” your meal. Basically, the protein is steamed in broth instead of stir-fried in oil. It works best for chicken, shrimp and tofu, but no beef unless you like rubber. And of course, with the kids’ meal, you can add or take out what you need to make a meal your kid will actually eat and ask for again.

Subway, 25,000+ locations in the U.S.
For some reason, when restaurants go healthy, they also decide to take out one of the biggest things that kids love…the toys. While secretly I’ll be throwing it away when they aren’t looking, teaching the value of healthy eating is higher on my list. And it works. Thankfully, Subway has been able to combine the two by offering fun lunchbox options with their kids’ meal. Try selling a sandwich, glass of milk and yogurt for dinner at home and you’ll mostly be met with moans and groans. Tell your kids that you’re heading to get your Star Wars dinner with a mini-light saber (a recent offering), your kids will call you Yoda.

From Subway.com

Applebee’s, 2000 locations
Applebee’s has long-been heralded as many things, but the destination for healthy kids’ meals wasn’t one of them. Until now. Working with the KidsWell program, the neighborhood grill offers a two-tiered menu with entrée options for older kids with bigger appetites and younger kids with smaller appetites. Options include chicken, steak and pasta as well as 11 total side choices like all-natural GoGo squeeZ Applesauce (double whoo-hoo from us) and steamed broccoli, apple slices, all-natural yogurt, all-natural yogurt and strawberries, white rice, salads and carrots or celery with ranch dressing (a little fat isn’t always bad.)

Red Lobster, 700+ locations
Fond memories of garlic cheddar biscuits and strong drinks make up a lot of my college memories, but like me, Red Lobster also now has a little more responsible side with healthier options for the whole family. Red Lobster gives kids just as many fresh seafood options as the “big kids” with their Lighthouse Menu. Healthy options include Garlic-Grilled Shrimp with just 60 calories and 1 gram of fat, Broil/ed Fish and the Popcorn Shrimp for 140 calories each. And there’s always snow crab legs! All of the kids’ meals come with 1% milk and the choice of orange wedges or broccoli. Red Lobster even provides the small ones with some fun, colorful drink options like a sunset strawberry smoothie or a cherry wave slushy. And no one will ever know that mama’s drink has a little bit of extra love in it.

Joe’s Crab Shack

The nice shark from Finding Nemo was wrong; fish can be friends and food. Joe’s has an entire menu dedicated to gluten-free entrees from steampots to buckets of crab. And if you order crab, that means fun plastic bibs are coming your table’s way. The kids will rejoice. Steampots, shrimps, and buckets are the perfect, light dinner – full of protein and easy on the belly. For the kids’ menu, you can find the usual suspects – mac & cheese, chicken dippers, fish fries, pizza, mini burgers and fish sticks – not the healthiest of options, but they also offer grilled shrimp as a “Kids Live Well” alternative. Make sure you check your local Joe’s for daily specials. Some locations have a special day where kids can eat for free!

Where is your favorite healthy go-to spot?

Massage is the Message for Giving

December 20, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Need to get a massage, but don’t have the time? The HoMedics Quad Shiatsu Massage Cushion with Heat puts the power of relaxation in your own hands at home.

Do you ever need to sit down and have a moment? Of course, you don’t. Superwoman never needs a break. Well, for the rest of us mere mortals who need to exhale, rest is not kryptonite, but it can be a luxury, especially during this time of year when you’re making lists and checking them twice.

So for those moments that maybe your husband/wife/boyfriend/girlfriend/partner doesn’t want massage those ridiculous knots in your neck and back, you can save the argument and have a little spa treatment all to yourself – massage, mood lightning and something t

The HoMedics Quad Shiatsu Massage Cushion with Heat puts the power of relaxation in your own hands – literally. There are 12 massage nodes, 2 massage styles, 3 zones and a soothing heat function. With three massage styles and zone control, this massage cushion puts you in control of your massage experience. Whether you’re looking for a fast, invigorating percussion massage, deep muscle kneading massage, or a gentle rolling massage, the Quad Shiatsu Massage Cushion offers it all…and enables you to fully relax after a long day (or year!)

This chair knows all my spots, what buttons to press and adds a little heat just to send small shivers down my spine. If one of the nodes can’t reach the knot, I just readjust myself. It’s really an intimate experience – hurts but feels oh so good. Don’t be scared to let out some of those feelings….even if it does resemble sounds of pleasure.

Thirty minutes later, I got up from my chair feeling relaxed, lose and ready to take on the day! Oh, I must do this again, I thought to myself.

So, the next day, I did just that, except this time, I made a little spa treatment for myself. I grabbed my favorite face mask, lit some holiday-scented candles and poured myself some spicy Chai tea. My husband looked at me with confusion and wondered what I was doing.

“I have a hot date with a chair,” I told him.

Nothing could ever replace my loving husband, but for those nights when I know he’s tired, I can sneak away for some quiet time to my second lover who knows just what to do.

If you have lower back pain, you can set the chair to target those areas. If you prefer kneading to tapping, just press that setting. Or if you’re like me and EVERYTHING hurts after a long day, than just sit back, relax and enjoy those 30 minutes of relaxation. And when the cycle ends, start again. The chair doesn’t get tired.

I felt a little tingle go down my spine as I got up to go to bed. Such a simple night, but so much satisfaction.

Fed Up with Spit Up: Dealing with a Baby with GER

November 5, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 30 Comments

I received product and compensation from Mead Johnson Nutrition to create this post written by me. All experiences and opinions expressed in this post are my own and not those of Mead Johnson Nutrition. Consult your pediatrician before making changes to your baby’s diet or if you have concerns related to your baby’s digestive health. Please see the product label/website for acceptable use and benefits. You can contact Mead Johnson Nutrition with product related questions or comments toll free at 1-800-BABY 123 or through the Contact Us link on Enfamil A.R. or Enfamil.com

As part of my sharing my story of how Enfamil A.R. ™ helped cope with my daughter’s GER, I went through all my photos I had taken before we figured out her issues. Unfortunately the only photos taken were her sleeping or just waking up since the rest of the time she and I were both covered in something.

But that’s not the way it had to be or should be for the short time you have with your baby.

When the technician announced that I was having a little girl, I was over taken with thoughts of cute little dresses. I couldn’t wait to dress her up and show off my baby girl. To celebrate, I headed to Neiman Marcus and purchased a beautiful white Burberry onesie. (I didn’t even have any Burberry, but I wanted my baby girl to start off in the best.)

If my stomach hadn’t increased in size throughout the next five months I would have forgotten I was pregnant because I had no symptoms of morning sickness, swollen feet and was in incredible shape.

And my labor? I’ve had sneezes more uncomfortable than giving birth to her.

Everything seemed like she was going to be my easy child … Until it came to feeding.

While I had tried to be a good breast-feeding mother like the doctors had recommended, I wasn’t very productive. And even after I was able to make enough milk for a bottle, baby girl just couldn’t keep it down. Everything ended up all over me, those adorable dresses, AND that Burberry onesie. (Actually if you look at what photos I did take, she’s not wearing much at all!)

And let’s not even talk about how tired, frustrated and upset I was. I was so frustrated. And so defeated.

Being a second-time around mom, I was determined to figure it out how to take care of it, so I tried for several months to make it work. I did have all kinds of advice like she has acid reflux, but I also knew that self-diagnosing her was just wasting even more time. Heading to the pediatrician could help to get to the heart of the matter and find a solution that would work ASAP. I didn’t have any patience and poor baby Taylor needed to eat!

While most babies fuss, scream and spit-up from time to time, my daughter, like about2/3 of other healthy infants had uncomplicated reflux called GER (Gastroesophageal Reflux) The doctor made several suggestions including burping her more often and holding her upright after feeding, it was the recommendation of thickened feedings using Enfamil A.R. that made a big change.

Within just a few feedings, she was able to keep down Enfamil A.R. and not have it all over her clothes and me. We were both sleeping better and certainly now were so much happier. While we used the powdered versions at home, I was thankful for the Ready to Use bottles that made it easy to grab and go on my way out the door or late at night when she needed a little midnight feeding.

Enfamil A.R. meets the AAP recommendations on reflux management, and provides the benefits of thickened feedings with more balanced nutrition and less hassle compared to adding rice cereal to formula.

While we’re now past the days of bottle feedings and baby burpings, I am so sad that now I look back at those first months of her life and my time with her and there are no photos to remember them before we found the right solution for us with Enfamil A.R.

3 Things You Use Every Day That May be Causing You More Harm Than Good

October 22, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 18 Comments

When you get up in the morning or get ready for bed at night, how many products do you use?

If you’re like me, there’s probably around 10 you use as part of your daily routine. And that doesn’t event begin to include makeup.

The average woman is exposed to 168 chemicals before she leaves her home each morning.

Have you ever read the back of your products to ask what’s in them? I mean not just that special ingredient that promises your skin will look 10 years younger or will make your hair look like Eva Mendes. I mean just read through the whole label.

If you can tell me what more than 3-5 of those things listed are besides water/aqua, then feel free to stop reading and say, of course I know exactly what those names are and how to pronounce them.

But if you’re like the rest of the general public, not only can you not say them, you don’t have a clue what the listed ingredients are anyways.

Europe bans more than 1300 harmful chemicals from personal care products.

The U.S. bans 11.

When I was younger, I didn’t really care about that stuff. I mean if they put it in there, it’s ok for me, right?

But now as a mom, I’ve learned to not just ask the question, but research, demand for answers, and make the right decisions for me and my family.

And unfortunately, that’s meant looking at a lot of things in my cabinets, drawers, makeup bag, etc. and asking “what is in this?”

So let’s look at three things you use every day that may be causing you more harm than good.

Deodorant

Considered a fundamental for personal care in my book, deodorant is one of those items you don’t just want to use, but so do all the people around you.

It keeps you smelling fresh when you’re not and in some cases of deodorant/anti/antiperspirants, prevent you from sweating. Many deodorants contain on average of six toxic chemicals such as propylene glycol, parabens, triclosan and aluminum. Classified as a carcinogen, aluminum is is proven to be directly involved with causing cancer. And considering you’re applying it to one of the most porous parts of your body (the armpit), you are applying a biocummulative that not just stores in your fat and accumulates sometimes multiple times a day. And aluminum has been linked to breast cancer in women and has also been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Instead look for an aluminum free deodorant like this stick or spray. Made with only completely natural products, you can pronounce the ingredients and you’ll know exactly what they are like organic lavender and orange essential oils.

Shampoo/Conditioner

But it’s not just want we put on our skin that’s toxic, it’s what we wash down the drain that’s even more harmful. Just think about washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner. While we add a few tablespoons to our scalp, have you ever thought about how much of that gets washed out?

In the U.S., we pour more than 350 million of gallons of shampoo ALONE down the drain.

And unfortunately, while our waste treatment plants are designed to remove bacteria, they aren’t able to clean out the toxic chemicals. So that means it goes right back to your home, your plumbing, and ultimately back to the sink you probably drink from. That’s why using a natural, toxic-free shampoo and conditioner can make big difference not just to your hair, but to the health of your family and others.

With organic aloe and essentials, Ava Anderson avaHAIR shampoo and conditioner repairs, beautified and strengthens hair without adding harsh or toxic ingredients to dry out, strip down or damage your hair.

Toothpaste

Think that you’re teeth aren’t at risk to toxic chemicals, just think about what you’re putting on your teeth. That’s right many toothpastes include 5-7 chemicals that are known not just to cause cancer, but cause autism, ADHD, and other cognitive impairments. One of those ingredients sometimes found in toothpaste, triclosan, is registered with the government as a pesticide, and is a known endocrine disruptor, disrupt thyroid function and contribute to liver and inhalation toxicity.

And I won’t even go into fluoride. While there are many debates on the use of fluoride in the water supply, some people have severe allergic reactions.

Instead use a toothpaste that is made with naturally-sourced baking soda that neutralizes mouth acids, cleans teeth and gums, and freshens without fluoride or the use of artificial sweeteners is your best options for clean teeth and even cleaner living. There’s even an option for kids, too.

Now let’s be reasonable. I’m not suggesting you actually throw out the new bottle of shampoo you just bought for $25, but when you’re done why don’t you purchase an all-natural one instead? Or each time you use it, think about what you’re doing to the water system, your health and your kids’ health.

That’ll probably get your thinking a little more about healthier living. And why wouldn’t you choose the best option made by mother nature?

Think you’re done? Not even. So many chemicals, so little time. But if you’re interested in learning more about being a label detective or learning more about a how to make healthier decisions for your family, email me. And make sure to stay connected on social media and sign up for our newsletter to make sure you get the latest and greatest information, resources, news and more.

If you make a purchase using PARTY# 102771, you can get a FREE BOO BOO STICK (my favorite) with a minimum purchase and a special discount with your first avaORDER.

Start Your Weight Loss with the Jenny Craig Kit

October 14, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 17 Comments

If you ask anyone what’s the hardest part of losing weight, you’ll get a lot of answers:

“Getting started…”

“Prepping my meals.”

“Eating the same old thing day in and day out.”

“Portion control.”

“Keeping it off.”

“FOMO (Fear of Missing Out.)”

I know each one of those has crossed my lips as excuse. Hey, we’re all human and sometimes life happens.

But it’s that moment when you look at yourself, or your kids, the scales, or that special date on the calendar that reminds you that a healthier you is a better you. But then what’s next?

Jenny Craig has been a successful strategy for a countless number of men and women to lose weight…including me. I actually lost 16 pounds on Jenny Craig* in just about a month. During that time I had so many people I hadn’t seen me in several months or were following my journey online who were so excited to see the changes in me inside and out.

[*Results not typical. Members following the Jenny Craig program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs. per week.]

However, the one question I received over and over again was “Is Jenny Craig food really good?”

Next to offering one of my Peanut Butter Crunch Bars and sharing my sincere love for the Macaroni and Cheese and my obsession with the Lemon Cooler Cookies, there wasn’t much more I could do to help someone make the positive jump to try Jenny Craig except for them to walk in and sign up.

Are you one of those people who has always wondered if Jenny Craig could work for you? Recently Jenny Craig debuted a special three-day Jenny Craig kit exclusively at Walmart. With everything you need to jump start your weight loss including 23 menu items including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, tips for eating well-rounded meals, a certificate for a free personal consultation for any Jenny Craig center in the US or Jenny Craig Anywhere (a personal phone consultation), and even a $50 food credit when you sign up for Jenny Craig, this starter kit is the ideal way to “test drive” how Jenny Craig can work for you.

Opening up the box, I was thrilled to see some of my favorite meal items (in the same size, packaging and recipes you’ll find anywhere at Jenny Craig) including the Turkey Chili (19 grams of protein and 220 calories), the Almond-Cranberry Barscotti Bar (perfect breakfast for those on the go), and the oh, so perfect with 9 grams of protein, Lemon Cooler Cookies.

The full set of menu items in the Jenny Craig Starter Kit included:

Barscotti with Cranberries and Almonds
Cranberry Almond Cereal
Mixed Berry Bar
Creamy Chicken & Corn Chowder
Swedish Meatballs
Chicken Salad Kit
Rotini Pasta & Meat Sauce
Cheese Ravioli
Turkey Chili
Cheese Curls
White Cheddar Popcorn
Lemon Cooler Cookies
Chocolatey Peanut Butter Anytime Bar
Chocolate Dream Shake

With everything you need to get your health moving in the right direction, all in one box and all in one location at your nearby Walmart, you don’t have an excuse why you can’t try Jenny Craig.

Learn more about my Jenny Craig experience here.

“I was provided a free Jenny Craig Weight Loss Starter Kit. However, the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.”

Being Sick Blows: Get Well Care Package {Printable}

October 7, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

When I hear the first sneeze, cough or sniffly nose in my house, I’ve learned not to wait for the first groan, moan or sad sound “I think I’m sick.”

I rush to Walmart to stock up on our must-haves for cold and flu season like cough drops, antibacterial and Kleenex facial tissue to prevent the “cycle.” So when Kleenex brand engaged me to share my most comforting things for a get well care package/feel better soon kit for others, I knew exactly what needed to be included to make a friend or loved one feel the warm and fuzzies you need when you aren’t feel so warm and fuzzy on the inside.

I remember once in college my roommate, Nicole, knew I wasn’t having a good day, so after her long day at work, she brought me a new soft blanket, a new pillow, the collector’s set of my favorite movie Gone with the Wind, a package of ramen noodles (I LOVE ramen), and a big box of Kleenex tissues. I’m pretty sure the moment she came in I didn’t feel bad any more because of the thought of her thinking of me made such a huge positive impact. It was one of the sweetest things that someone has ever done. And not to do too much math, but that was more than 10 years ago…

That moment of care made such a difference to me, I’ve tried to pay it forward with this quick and easy go-to care package (that can be dropped off or even sent in the mail) for when I hear a friend or loved one isn’t feeling quite up to par. It includes my essentials for making things not seem so bad when you aren’t feeling good. And it only takes about 5 minutes to put together with this printable to show someone you care.

Feel Better Get Well Care Package Kit

Requirement: Kleenex Brand Ultra Soft Tissues
There’s a reason this more than a must-have – it’s an absolute requirement…if you’ve been sick, you know the difference between a tissue and a Kleenex Ultra Soft tissue. The soothing softness is just the TLC you need when you’re going after the tenth tissue that hour. It’s kinda like a hug for your nose when face it, no one is getting in line to embrace you when you are cesspool of germs. And because Kleenex Facial Tissues are designed to shield a cough or sneeze, it’s just what you need to try to keep the germs off your hands and your friends.

Movie/Movie Gift Card
When you don’t feel good all you want to do is roll up in a ball. So to pass the time away, a movie is a great way to keep yourself entertained without much effort. However, don’t know their favorite movie or if they have it already? Right now with your Walmart purchase of a 4-pack of 75-count Kleenex Ultra soft Tissues or Kleenex Tissues with Lotion (love these), you’ll get a $5 VUDU credit. VUDU is Walmart’s online video streaming service, so your giftee can snag their favorite movie to watch from the comfort of their home.

KLEENEX TISSUE CARE PACKAGE $5 VUDU OFFER
Redeem by purchasing qualifying item and star/check the item(s) and the date of your receipt.

Snap a clear photo of the entire receipt with your phone.

Text CAREPACKAGE to 811811 for submission instructions.

Please allow 48 hours for processing.

* All Kleenex Lotion/Ultra Soft 4-packs are eligible for this promotion (with or without the special notation on the box.)

Chicken Soup
You can never go wrong with chicken soup…we’ll unless your loved one is a vegetarian which in that case a vegetable soup or ramen is a great alternative. In an ideal world, I’d whip up a homemade bowl to really share the love, but a lack of time and shipping issues make that a little more difficult. However, by using the prepackaged envelopes, all someone needs is a little hot water from the microwave or even the coffee pot to whip up a nice, warm cup of soup.

Menthol Vapor Rub
No matter the age, when you can’t breathe from sinuses, cold or flu, a little whiff of menthol rub goes a long way. And a container of this miracle goo can go along way, too for repeated uses throughout the season.

Bubbly Water
This is actually a term that my kids coined a few years ago for clear soda that fizzes. When your stomach is a little queasy, I crave for “bubbly water.” I often suggest water and Vitamin C and D enriched orange juice for fluid intake when you’re not feeling well, but the bubbly water can be a nice add to the rotation. Plus if you wanted, you can add a fun and creative label to the bottle as a small detail that can really make their day. (Think funny faces, drawings from the kids, or even a funny spoof on your “magic potion.”

Lip Balm
It’s the little things and this little package makes my world rock anytime. I constantly need to apply lip balm to keep my lips from painful cracking, but if you’ve been coughing and sneezing or crying even, your lips really go through the wringer. By adding moisture to your lips, like you do with your nose with Kleenex brand tissues, you’re preventing chapped lips from setting in – and “no one gots time for that, right?”

Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer
This along, with your tissues, is your front line to keep from your little cough and cold to begin a three-month long chain between your family and friends. There’s a lot of things I’ll share with you, but if you really love me, let’s make sure your cold isn’t one of them.

Cough Drops
Oh, the power of a cough drop after you’ve been hacking away for hours or felt the consistent tickle in the back of your throat is a huge relief when you’re not feeling well. Try for their favorite flavor, but make sure you get the kind that include a little extra Vitamin C or menthol to also help the throat.

Printable
This prints as a 5 X 7 so you can print from your home printer on card stock or create a card from printing one on an 8 1/2 X 11 sheet of paper and this as your front cover. There’s also space for a nice message in the middle to really show a personal touch. To print the high resolution, non-watermarked version, click here.

So you’re friend is sick but you’d like to send them something to pick up their spirits?

If you’re looking for a “Feel Better Box” that isn’t for someone that’s not feeling good, you can still use most of these items, but I’d trade out the Vapor Rub for a super scented hand lotion with a lavender or bergamot scent to uplift their spirits and remove the cough drops for their favorite candy treat.

Let’s just say it: Being sick blows, right? From the moment you feel it in the back of your throat, you know what’s about to happen. While I know as an adult about what’s about to happen, I still regress to feeling like a kid and resorting to the same things that helped me cope when I didn’t feel good and my mom was there to keep me comforted. Funny enough, those things don’t change…much. And even when you’re not feeling yourself and life’s got you down, the gesture of someone doing something thoughtful like a hug or sending a box of a few things goes a long way.

Remember someone always needs it, right?

Visit, the Kleenex brand Someone Always Needs One website to create your own personal Kleenex® Careboard message to send to your loved one and to find valuable coupons, too.

« Previous Page