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mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Need a Doctor? Mend is the App For That

April 6, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 24 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimerThere’s nothing worse as a mom to see your child sick and you can’t do anything to help…

Except when you either have to wait until daylight hours to try to beg for an appointment with the pediatrician OR to roll into an urgent care facility or emergency room in the middle of the night with tons of other sick folks waiting to be seen while your kid tries to keep from throwing up all over the waiting room?

Mend at Home App


Don’t you just wish you could call your doctor and have them come to the house? Or better yet, to hit a button and in minutes the doc be at your bedside?

Thankfully, Dallas’ own Dr. Jonathan Clarke, a physician-certified in emergency medicine and military physician, not only heard your plea, he made the process even easier with an app. Mend, like Uber for medicine, delivers convenient, affordable, on-demand healthcare in your home, office or hotel, for patients age 2-64.

Launching just this last month in limited areas of Dallas including Uptown and Frisco, Mend services patients Monday – Friday 8 am – 8 pm and weekends 11 am – 6:30 pm. However, those without an Apple device or would prefer to speak to an individual to make an appointment at 469.458.6363 (MEND), Monday – Friday 8 am – 4 pm.

THE MEND PROCESS IS EASY

1. Download the Mend App on Apple iTunes to sign up for the service.

Mend at Home App

 2. Request a visit using the app in just a few easy steps.

Mend App Comes to You

 3. Now wait until the doctor comes to you.

Mend at Home

While at this time Mend does not accept any insurance, sometimes comfort, convenience, and customer service are completely worth the very reasonable costs (that are also consistent with what I’ve paid for urgent care out of pocket costs.)  Ranging from $199 for the visit to $175 for a complex service, no services are rendered without your consent and are payable with your credit card, Health Savings Account, or Flexible Spending Account. And what about if you need a prescription? Not only will Mend write out the prescription, but

And what about if you need a prescription? Not only will Mend write out the prescription, but Doughtery’s Pharmacy will provide same-day (or next day) delivery to your doorstep as well. I remember one time I was able to get into my doctor for a 20-minute visit then to have to spend six hours waiting for my prescription at the pharmacy. I would have paid big bucks to have been able to sleep at home and then wake up to have my pills handed to me at the door.

Mend at Home App

While Mend may be convenient for those specials times, they are a compliment to the services your primary care doctor and not a replacement.  So make room on your iPhone and view the website to see if your area is served right now. If it’s anything like Uber, this concept is only going to grow exponentially as people see the value in this service.

Now let the mend begin! 

 

Combos without the Calories at Corner Bakery Cafe

March 18, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 51 Comments

Disclaimer

I’ve long been a fan of Corner Bakery Cafe. On days when things have been rough and I craved a bowl of hot soup, I made a b-line to my nearest Corner Bakery Cafe. While there were tons of options for me to choose, I ALWAYS ordered a combo with a 1/2 Tuscan Chicken Pomodori and a cup of Chicken Tortilla soup.



It was the cure for what ailed me, always. Although I felt like it was an indulgence with the tender chicken, melted cheese, sundried tomatoes and spinach perfectly panini-toasted then dipped in the tortilla soup, I later found out it was good for me! For under 600 calories, I could eat exactly what I wanted, how I wanted without feeling like I broke my weekly calorie count in one sitting. It was such a relief to have a dish I knew I could always enjoy without feeling like I had overindulged.

Corner-Bakery-Cafe-Corner-Combo

But what I also found out that there were more than 100 combos at Corner Bakery Cafe that like my soup and sandwich combo I dearly loved, that also were under 100 calories. It was like the sun had opened up a whole new world of options that I could eat here twice a week, every week and still wouldn’t repeat the same meal twice. No scrimping on taste, but thankfully, low in calorie!

So I decided to branch out for one of their limited edition salads, the Kale Caesar Salad with Chicken as well as their season bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup.

The new Kale Caesar Salad with Chicken is made to order with a mix of fresh kale and romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese and Caesar dressing topped with all-natural grilled chicken. While you can never go wrong with a caesar salad, often I find out later the dressing was more than eating a hamburger. However, that’s not the case with this bowl of greens. The salad was meaty (even without the chicken), but with the chicken added, you definitely are full.

Kale-Caesar-Salad-Corner-Bakery

And the soup? I’m sorry to say is already gone from the menu to make room for their spring/summer soup menus, but if it’s any indication from the Tuscan White Bean Soup I enjoyed, it’s worth the wait. This vegetarian option with white beans and kale was filling all by itself and kept me warm from my head to my toes.

White-Tuscan-Soup-Corner-Bakery

However, there’s 99 more combo options for you to choose from. Pick your favorite from their list or use the oh, so helpful 100 Under 600  Calculator to create your customized combo with sandwiches, soups and salads that you can eat without feeling complete – no matter what time of the year. #SacrificeNothing is actually their hashtag they ask customers to use when they take a photo of their healthy combo choices at Corner Bakery.

Corner-Combo-Corner-Bakery-Cafe

What Under 600 Calorie Corner Combo catches your eye? One lucky reader wins a $20 gift card to Corner Bakery Cafe.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

10 Reasons Why I Love Jenny Craig and You Will Too

March 1, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 76 Comments

Disclaimer-Jenny-Craig

Today will be two months I’ve been on Jenny Craig.

So far I’ve lost 16 lbs. I couldn’t be happier with my success and know that Jenny Craig will continue to be my answer to FINALLY getting to my healthier me. I still have 35 lbs. to lose, but I know with the skill, support and convenience of Jenny Craig, I can continue to reach my goals! And now I’m giving the same gift I was given to one of you (just keep reading to find out how!)


Jenny-Craig-Food-MamaChallenge

10. Jenny Craig makes it easy for me to lose weight by taking the thinking out of it.

9. Triple Chocolate Cheesecake and other sweets make it easy to feel like I’m indulging while I’m still losing weight.

Jenny-Craig Red-Velvet-Cupcake
8. My counselor, Natalie is my backbone for weight loss. I look forward to our weekly meetings and she is my support when I need it most.

Jenny-Craig-Counselor-MamaChallenge
7. Jenny Craig helps me to make time for me. I sit down to enjoy meals and snacks instead of just putting unhealthy junk in my month.
6. With Jenny Craig I don’t feel like I’m missing out. Pizza, turkey burgers and chicken enchiladas, I get to eat them all with Jenny Craig.
5. Even when I need a bag of chips or a late-night snack, I have options like Kettle Corn, Black Bean Chips and even Smores bar.

Jenny-Craig-Popcorn-MamaChallenge
4. Jenny Craig has taken my favorite foods and made them healthy and easy to prepare, so I’m always looking forward to meal time.
3. Jenny Craig is flexible! When I’m on the go, I can bring my Jenny Craig with me – in my purse, in my desk and even in my car.

Jenny-Craig-Listens-MamaChallengef
2. With Jenny Craig, I never feel hungry! I’ve got shakes, bars and snacks as well as delicious meals to keep me and my metabolism all day.
1. Jenny Craig has retaught me to eat the right way with portion control and nutrition proportion.

So are you ready to find out what Jenny Craig can do for you? 

Jenny-Craig-Giveaway

Jenny Craig will set you up as a member on the program so that you can experience the program first-hand, with a weekly one-on-one consultation with a dedicated consultant who will be with you every step of the way from identifying your challenges, mapping out goals and tracking your progress. In addition, you’ll get a month supply of delicious, portioned food for every meal like our Cinnamon Swirl French Toast or our Baja-Style Chicken Quesadillas. Members following our program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs. a week.

What are you doing to be the healthiest version of you? 

 

Five Reasons to Use Vitamin E Oil Right Now

February 25, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 17 Comments

Disclaimer

At my age, you start to finally listen to all those things people have been telling you for years…”Always wash your face…,” “Use moisturizer…,” and “Don’t forget to wear sunscreen.” You go through tons of products, supplements and such, then realize it’s really not that complicated…One of my newest “discoveries” on a recent trip to CVS/pharmacy was the positive benefits of Vitamin E oil.

CVS-Platinum-MamaChallenge


Vitamin E is an antioxidant, supports immune function and helps support cardiovascular health. Vitamin E is naturally found on the outermost skin surface, where it contributes to antioxidant support.  While this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and should only be taken with your doctor’s approval, for around $10 a bottle, it’s one of the best miracle finds I’ve found for my epidermis!

Vitamin-E-CVS-MamaChallenge

1. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize:
Vitamin E helps to retain your skin’s natural moisture while it makes that winter skin look healthy. If you have dry skin, Vitamin E oil can help your skin get back to his normal balance. Use it on your face, your arms and even your nails to help combat those cracked nails and cuticles.

2. Scars Remover:
I have tons of scars and have been told over and over, you just need to learn to live with them. However, Vitamin E oil has been known to help soften the skin around some scars and bruises, then lighten them after repeated use. By assisting in the process of regeneration of skin cells (that antioxidant quality back at work), the old cells are replaced with new ones thus removing the scar tissue. I’ve just started using Vitamin E oil on my scars, but so far it’s about 90% less expensive than other ointments so I’m willing to wait it out to see how effective it can be.

3. Sunburn Relief:
I’ve admitted to my poor decisions of sunbathing when I was young (Crisco is NOT the right oil to put on your skin FYI), but now I know that it was Vitamin E oil I should have used afterwards when I had sunburns. Healing the damage caused by UV rays and the pain, Vitamin E oil is a key ingredient in many sunscreen brands to help protect your skin to prevent the suburns, too.

4. Get Rid of the Eczema Itch:
Eczema runs in the family and all of the Reos at one time or another have big issues with redness, dryness and bumps that come with it. When you use Vitamin E oil, its antioxidant effects help to decrease the inflammation as well as helps to relieve the itchiness while preventing those big episodes that come with eczema.

5. Get Rid of Stretch Marks:
You can tell me all day long that stretch marks are just the love marks to remind you that you created a life inside of you. However, if you gave me a choice, I think I’d get the same warm and fuzzy with a necklace than the road map that my children made of my abdomen. So like scars you can use Vitamin E oil to help lighten those scars, but even more so, you can apply the oil while you’re pregnant to not just prevent stretch marks but also to relieve the dry, itchy reaction.

Vitamin-E-Oil-CVS-MamaChallenge

radiance PLATINUM is a new line of premium supplements and vitamins that are 100% preservative-free.

The new line contains 44 vitamins and supplements with various benefits, including popular options such as probiotics, Fish Oil, vitamin C, as well as multivitamins for both men and women.

The  radiance PLATINUM line includes certified non-GMO, gluten-free, certified organic, and options suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

CVS/pharmacy launched this line to offer high-quality options to empower customers to take small steps to meet their individual health goals.

The line is available for purchase at 7,800 CVS/pharmacy locations nationwide and online, but best of all, if you’re not satisfied they have a 100% money-back guarantee.

CVS-Mamachallenge

And additional way to make sure you get the best price for you, download the free CVS/pharmacy app today. Save time by looking online and the weekly ad to find out what is on sale so you can save the most money.

Don’t miss these #mamachallenge moments:

CVS-TeaTreeOil

Healthiest-Restaurant

What Happens Lasik Laser Eye Surgery

http://www.mamachallenge.com/2014/10/brussel-sprouts-broccoli-cauliflower-casserole.html

Does Jenny Craig Food Really Taste Good?

January 25, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 27 Comments

Disclaimer

Does Jenny Craig food taste good? That was my second question after, of course, whether or not Jenny Craig would work. While it’s food that’s already made for me that I would microwave or in some cases, just open straight from the cabinet…why would it taste any different than a frozen Lean Cuisine that I had been eating for years? Jenny-Craig-Lots-of-Food But this year was going to be different and I was going to do something different. I need to be healthier. I want to look better. I have to be a better version than the woman I am today. After my first appointment at Jenny Craig and my weigh in, I was loaded up on two huge bags of food for the next 7 days. Additionally, I would also add veggies, fruit and Greek yogurt to the menu. Even if this food was bad, there was no way I was going to be hungry… Jenny-Craig-Meal-Plan Like a good kid I went to my meal planner journal and plucked out the first box from the freezer. Following the instructions, I patiently waiting for 3-4 minutes for the plastic dish to be ready for me to devour. Let’s see how this good this is… Jenny-Craig-Sesame-Chicken-box Before I dug in, I decided a nice plate my make things better. Presentation means everything. Jenny-Craig-Sesame-Chicken

SESAME CHICKEN


One bite into the Sesame Chicken, I was pretty taken. With noodles, vegetables like red peppers and water chestnuts, and the tender breaded chicken, I was actually excited about what I was eating. Not because it was “diet food,” but because it was good. And when combined with 1.5 cups of veggies as required by the plan, I was full. Actually it was like I was eating my normal Friday night Chinese from down the street – but healthy. Thankfully what it wasn’t like was loaded with MSG, salt and all the other stuff that might make traditional Chinese takeout taste good, but fill you full of so much stuff you body doesn’t need.  Not bad for the first dish, but I wondered if the other entrees on my meal plan would get any better. Jenny-Craig-Stuffed-Shells

 STUFFED SHELLS

Soft, cheesy, and sauce covered, I was delighted to eat this for dinner one night, especially paired with Italian green beans. And apparently, Italian is definitely my weakness since I had Chicken Carbonara on the menu and was over the moon. Again the meal was really tasty with a creamy alfredo sauce with BACON and chicken. To up the veggie intake I threw in some steamed broccoli along with my side salad and Jenny Craig balsamic dressing, I still couldn’t believe I was eating healthy food.

Jenny-Craig-Chicken-Carbonara

 CHICKEN CARBONARA

 While there were several other dishes I enjoyed like the White Fish and Mushroom Risotto (yep, risotto!) and probably one of my absolute favorites the fish and chips. After a long day or when the kids were eating pizza, this one was almost like I was cheating…but I’m not.  The only few things I haven’t like as much were the chicken or tuna kits (but I don’t like them any way!) Jenny-Craig-Mediterranean-Style-Egg-Sandwich

 MEDITERRANEAN EGG SANDWICH

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, but with our schedule it seems it’s around 11 am before I have time to make it…And then the crazy roller coaster of my day begins and I’m left waiting until 2 pm to eat lunch. That’s a lot of problem about waiting sometimes until dinner to make up for the rest of the day and I’m starving. But with Jenny Craig I’m excited to get up for breakfast and to enjoy the variety of different meal items available especially this Mediterranean egg sandwich and the Florentine Pizzas are A-mazing.  Having dishes that could be portable are really important to make sure I stay on my meal plan, so I lean towards these rather than the egg scrambles. But those are so good, too.

Jenny-Craig Red-Velvet-Cupcake

 RED VELVET CUPCAKE

I had no idea when I started Jenny Craig dessert was even part of the plan, much less a Red. Velvet. Cupcake. With creamy icing and a moist red velvet cake, I was in H-E-A-V-E-N and still on the Jenny Craig plan. Then there chocolate cakes, brownies and the triple chocolate cheesecake Oh, my it was everything I needed…so much so I forgot to take a photo before I gobbled it up. But believe me it was good. Real good.

Jenny-Craig-Kettle-Corn

 KETTLE CORN

Snacks are just as much fun to eat on Jenny. I’m not much of cheetos-kinda-girl, but they have a version of that. Kettle corn, black bean chips and yogurt dream bar make it easy to make it through an epioside of Downton Abbey or a late-night on the computer. And the portions for the snack are definitely huge, so you never feel like your have a bad case of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out.)

Jenny-Craig-Sample-Kit

Still not convinced Jenny Craig food is good? Then consider trying a Jenny Craig Sample Kit. A Taste of Success 3-day Sample Kit gives you an opportunity to try Jenny Craig food without signing up for the entire plan. And best of all, when you order the Taste of Success Sample Kit and then join Jenny Craig, they’ll credit the cost of your sample kit towards your next Jenny’s Cuisine in center or Jenny Craig at Home purchase.

Stay tuned to my Jenny Craig weight loss journey: I’ll be sharing my progress on Facebook and Instagram along the way.

*I was provided a free trial program and a discount on the Jenny Craig meals. However, the opinions and writing are entirely my own. Members following the Jenny Craig program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs per week.

Lose Weight with Jenny Craig – First Appointment

January 13, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

Disclaimer

I’m going to let you in on a little secret…

If you ever wanted me to quit talking, ask me to talk about my weight.


The topic makes me sad…not just because it reminds me that my figure definitely is far from where I am comfortable (especially for a gal on TV), but even more so because I have two children I am responsible for and would love if their mom was “skinny.” Somehow when my six-year-old says he thinks I am beautiful BUT…he would like if I was smaller…just kills me.

Me too, buddy. Me too.

So once again, another year, I’ve resolved to finally lose that weight. My post-wedding weight. My two-week-eat-my-way-through-Italy weight. My post-baby weight (and my youngest is three.)

Right before I got married I was able to lose around 50 lbs. But that wasn’t without work. Lots of it.

Easter-Reos

But I can’t just let me go. I have to keep trying. If not for me, for them.

Looking at my biggest issue…it always comes down to the food. I’m not good at planning meals and I can’t handle grilled chicken and veggies for six months straight. It’s just not me.  I need good food that’s good for me and takes no time to prepare.

Meet my new best friend Jenny. Jenny Craig that is.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I signed up, but on the day of my appointment, I walked in ready to go. At least with my new friend I felt like I could brave up to the scales.

Afterwards, we sat down and talked about my triggers that made losing weight hard for me.

JC-Breakdown

Saying them aloud actually made it easier to face up to them instead of keeping them secret – just like when I clean the kids’ plates after dinner and take a few bites…

Next we made a menu. One of my favorite activities in the world; I was able to look over my predetermined menu and decide if everything sounded good for me. Pizza bites? Chicken Carbonara, Fish and Chips? Don’t mind if I do. 

JC-Chicken-Carbonara

We packed all my food and then I was off to the grocery store to pick up only a few other things like water, veggies and yogurt. And then I was ready to go.

Thankfully, I was now prepared. Prepared to deal with my crazy schedule and all the things that get in my way of taking care of me.

So what do I think so far?

Jenny-Craig-Lots-of-Food

Just after one week I was down six pounds and I have had to work to find room to eat chocolate cheesecake. Really!

Make sure to stay tuned as I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the food, how it works and of course, if it helps me to continue to reach my goal weight loss of 50 lbs!

Are you looking to lose weight? Right now Jenny Craig is offering $0 to join AND $50 in free food!

Jenny-Craig-Deal

Just like I experienced, you’ll be able to meet your consultant, make goals together, create a menu and workout plan and also outline how you’ll be able to overcome those challenges that keep you from your goal weight.So join me! I’ll be sharing my progress on Facebook and Instagram along the way.

*I was provided a free trial program and a discount on the Jenny Craig meals. However, the opinions and writing are entirely my own. Members following the Jenny Craig program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs per week.

*I was provided a free trial program and a discount on the Jenny Craig meals. However, the opinions and writing are entirely my own. Members following the Jenny Craig program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs per week.

Balancing it All: Christie Rampone, U.S. Women’s National Soccer Captain

January 11, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

This is a sponsored post. 

The last few weeks I haven’t exactly been at 100%. With all the Christmas chaos and 2015 coming in with such force, I’m still trying to find the best way to manage the balance of being a mom, a wife, a business owner, a blogger and just being me. So when I had the chance to speak with another mom that I felt really has a lot of pressure trying to do it all as Professional soccer player for the Sky Blue FC and Captain of the U.S. women’s national soccer team, I was all ears!

Just check out what Christie Rampone had to say when I asked her about “doing it all.”


Christie-Rampone

What is balance for you? How do you measure it?

Rampone: Balance is key for me. The importance of doing my job as a soccer player, a mom and a wife is all predicated on doing them all well. If I am unable to fulfill any of three roles, I end up being unsuccessful at all of them. But when I am able to do all three well, everything falls into place. I feel that getting balance is less about putting a measured amount of time into something but more about making the time you put in count. For example, my workouts now are much shorter than when I was young. But I am so much more efficient and productive because of my experience and knowing how to maximize my time.

What are your  tips for balance?

Rampone: Concentrate on one thing at a time. Do not take on too much. Be in the present, always. You can only control what you can control. Balance is about perspective. You have to prioritize what’s important and what can wait. Don’t wear yourself thin, you’re only one person. There is a time for your career and there is a time for family. Separate the two and you will find it much more enjoyable.

Rampone w-kids

How has being part of a team helped you with interpersonal/family dynamics?

Rampone: That’s a great question. I guess I would say that a successful family is much like a successful team. People must work together, sacrifice for the benefit of the team and constantly communicate. Our team is much like a family. We may not always all like everything about each other, but we have respect and are willing to do anything to help each other.

What things are important to you as a busy mom?

Rampone: Being a good wife and mother and also being good at my job are the priorities in my life. All three of these roles take a tremendous amount of effort and focus. I work hard to do all three well and I get tremendous satisfaction out of it.

Could you just be a mom? Could you just be an athlete?

Rampone: I was an athlete before I was a mom. And I may soon find out what it is like being only a mom since my career is drawing to a close. But by doing both I believe that I am setting a great example for my daughters, and hopefully other young women, that you can have it all.

EpiCor

At my age and with all that I have on my plate, I need to work harder at staying healthy inside and out. I’ve always taken care to eat healthy and to exercise regularly. I started taking EpiCor before the Algarve Cup, a major international soccer tournament held in the dead of winter. EpiCor made a big impact on supporting my immune system and helping me stay healthy throughout the trip. Since then, I have become a paid endorser for EpiCor, and I enjoy talking about something that I truly believe works. With my busy life I need to stay healthy and I believe EpiCor is an important element in that. EpiCor is a safe and natural dried fermentate found in a variety of vitamins and supplements that helps support my immune system by strengthening a first and second line of defense, increasing antioxidant power and helping your gut. I eat healthy, stay fit, manages stress and take EpiCor to protect my immune health.

Find Rampone on Twitter at https://twitter.com/christierampone. 

 

Start Your Family Dinner Project with Healthy Comfort Favorites {Recipe}

January 7, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 12 Comments

At the bar. Standing next to the fridge. In stages throughout the night.

Is this the way your family eats dinner?

With all those busy family schedules – work, school, play and all that in between – it keeps us from being what we are supposed to be – a family!


Family-Dinner-Project

The Family Dinner Project seeks to help all of us to get back to the things that matter like food, fun and conversation at mealtime. A program led by Project Zero at Harvard, the FDP is full of recipes, conversation starters and research to back up the basic concept that a family meal is good for the spirit, brain and health of a family. Actually 15 years of research shows families that eat together experience:

  • Better academic performance
  • Higher self-esteem
  • Lower risk of substance abuse
  • Lower risk of teen pregnancy
  • Lower risk of depression
  • Lower likelihood of developing eating disorders
  • Lower rates of obesity

So now that you know that you know that dinner time together is a good thing – give them something they can’t resist at dinner…fried chicken and macaroni and cheese!

But since it is a new year and a new you and you want to help your whole family be healthier, here are a few twists we’ve made to make sure that dinner doesn’t just taste a-mazing, but is also healthy, too!

I’ve taken fried chicken to new heights with this gluten-free oven fried chicken that uses gluten-free cereal for a crispy crust. And don’t worry, I didn’t forget the sauce either! Paired with this copy-cat signature recipe from a certain chicken spot that has an affinity for cows, you will be making this recipe again and again – and finding new reasons to put this sauce on everything. Add a little (or a lot) gluten-free mac n cheese (with a little healthy twist of winter squash), you will love your time together – eating, talking and just being together.

Gluten-Free-Oven-Fried-Chicken

 

Gluten-Free-Mac-N-Cheese

 

 

Gluten-Free Macaroni n Cheese with Veggies {Recipe}

January 7, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Gluten-Free-Mac-N-Cheese

 

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Gluten-Free Mac n Cheese with Veggies {Recipe}


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Ingredients

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  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 winter squash, pureed
  • 2 cups low fat milk
  • 6 ounces cheeses, grated (about 1 2/3 cups) (I like sharp cheddar and Monterrey Jack)
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon powdered mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons bread crumbs and/or parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
  2. Boil macaroni and cook until tender but firm, about 5 to 8 minutes.
  3. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  4. Meanwhile, place pureed squash and milk into a large saucepan on medium heat and cook until the mixture is simmering.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cheeses, Greek yogurt, salt, mustard and cayenne pepper. Pour cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine.
  6. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle bread crumbs/parmesan cheese over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
  8. Bake for 20 minutes until gold and bubbly.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

Gluten-Free Oven-Fried Chicken {Recipe}

January 7, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

 

Gluten-Free-Oven-Fried-Chicken

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Gluten-Free Oven-Fried Chicken


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Ingredients

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  • 1 1/3 cups rice-corn crispy cereal (Crispex Rice/Corn is gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
  • 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 lb. chicken tenders or 4 bone-in, skinless chicken pieces

Instructions

  1. Finely grind the cereal together in a food processor.
  2. Transfer crumbs to a large gallon size plastic bag.
  3. Add the oil, salt, cayenne, paprika, and ground pepper and toss to mix thoroughly. Whisk the light mayonnaise and Dijon mustard together in a medium shallow bowl. Add chicken to mayonnaise and turn to coat all the pieces evenly.
  4. Drop the chicken into the plastic bag, seal and shake until each piece is evenly coated. Place coated pieces on the prepared rack. Spray the chicken pieces evenly with cooking spray, and bake until the coating browns, 35 to 40 minutes.
  5. Transfer to a platter and serve hot or at room temperature.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

 

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Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

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

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I put it off all day because I didn’t want to ha I put it off all day because I didn’t want to have to start the inevitable, but here we are the first #SeniorSunday for Jackson Benham Reo. (I’m so not ready.)
Doubled-down and won big! Congrats to @daynetxbbq Doubled-down and won big! Congrats to @daynetxbbq for being named #7 in @texasmonthly 2025 Top 50 BBQ! 

We’ve done our own BBQ stop shopping this last year from our own @hurtadobbq, @smokenashbbq and @225bbq in Arlington, @goldeesbbq and @panthercitybbq in Fort Worth, @zavalasbarbecue in Grand Prairie and @franklinbbq in Austin, no one can say that BBQ is BBQ. It’s as vastly different as the landscape as Texas. Now I’m off to @burntbeanco - #sequin here we come with the rest of the state!

#bbq #texasbbq
I can’t believe these are my people…my people I can’t believe these are my people…my people are supposed to be toddlers with Thomas the Train and Disney Princess backpacks! 

Goodbye 11th and 7th grade!
🚨 ACT NOW: Keep Public $$$ in Public Schools! 🚨

Click Here (takes less than one minute): 
https://www.txpta.org/take-action

Tomorrow, March 11, the Texas House Committee on Public Education will hear HB 3. Let’s make it clear: Public money demands public accountability!

Texans have rejected vouchers since 1957—yet lawmakers are once again pushing them through with SB 2 and HB 3.

💰 Vouchers drain public school resources.
📉 They don’t improve student achievement.
❌ They aren’t about "parent choice"—private schools choose their students.
🏫 Texas parents already have school choice.

Governor Abbott is making vouchers a priority, but Texans are pushing back. Lawmakers are feeling the heat from voters who refuse to let public schools be undermined.

📲 Take 1 minute to make your voice heard NOW!

📷Jackson and Taylor are 2 of the 5.5 million reasons why Texas must keep public dollars in public schools. I was a product of public schools and had an amazing experience in a rural community with some of the best teachers. Change needs to happen, but taking away resources like these from schools is not especially when they ste already underfunded and our teachers’ morale is at an all time low. Communities work better together not when you separate them further apart. 

#studentsrworthit
#txptarally25
❣️…Pressing pause (for while)… Forgot wha ❣️…Pressing pause (for while)…

Forgot what it feels like to RELAX? The Sanford House Inn & Spa is ready to help you “Leave Your Worries Behind” with packages to treat yourself (or someone else) this Valentine’s Day! 

You “Can’t Help Falling in Love” with multiple options including a Hot-Stone Massage, Facials, Spa Manicure + Pedicure, Blowouts, Foot Reflexology and even lunch (with wine!

Just take a look at my face - I was able to “turn it off” (for a little while) and when I left my dry winter skin was just glowing - plus I learned how to make it stay that way from my very  knowledgeable esthetician! 

If you haven’t tried this gem in the middle of Arlington, you’re missing out! The Spa is just part of experience with its 12-room Inn and acclaimed 506 Restaurant (don’t sleep on the brunch), @thesanfordhouse is your little piece of heaven in the middle of downtown!

Think it’s only a little dream? It will be if you don’t make an appointment or nudge your loved one this is what you NEED for Valentine’s Day! (But don’t worry you can still get a great experience anytime!)

Link is in my stories for full list of Valentine’s Day packages! 

📍506 N. Center Street, Arlington, Texas
(Less than 1 mile from @attstadium)

#valentines #dfw #ArlingtonTx #sanfordhouse
Texas Bucket List ✔️= Johnson City Lights Thi Texas Bucket List ✔️= Johnson City Lights

This is the last weekend of the “Christmas lights you can see from space” from the twinkliest town in Texas, @visitjctx!

You have until Sunday…and while you’re there you should hit up @halterranchtx, my other new favorite.

#gofredtx #fredericksburgtx @visitfredtx @visitfredericksburgtx
FLASH GIVEAWAY: Just because Santa’s left the st FLASH GIVEAWAY: Just because Santa’s left the station doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate a Classic Christmas (and we have the keys!)

@ClassicChristmas has been extended until Sunday, Jan. 5, so if you haven’t been enjoy this VIP experience with ice skating and snow tubing! 

Giveaway includes 4 Tickets to Classic Christmas + 4 Premium pass upgrades plus: 
🎟️ Exclusive Express Lane entry to popular activities 
🎟️ $10 merch credit at the Classic Christmas Gift Shop  
🎟️ Coca-Cola Beverage

To enter:   
⭐️ Like this post  
⭐️ Comment what’s your favorite Christmas song 
⭐️ Tag a friend who would love the chance to come
⭐️ Share this story as an extra chance to win!

The giveaway is open now through December 30 at 11:59 pm and you’ll have December 31 - January 5, 2025 to enjoy the fun! Winner will be contacted by DM so profile must be public.  (Giveaway is not associate with Instagram/META.) 

#classicchristmas #cocacola #Arlingtontx #ArlingtonTexas #cocacola @enchantdallas #dfw #dfwevents #mamachallenge #dfwinfluencer #dallasinfluencer
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW // Trinity Falls Tour of WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW // Trinity Falls Tour of Trees

 🎄 Tour of Trees at Trinity Falls in McKinney
 🗓️ Now through Dec. 15 (so hurry up!) 

Know what’s better than touring homes? Touring homes with beautifully decorated Christmas trees! 

@trinityfallstx has brought both worlds together by inviting the public to explore their model homes with professionally- styled trees by @absholidaydecor at the 5th Annual Tour of Trees. While you marvel at the homes and the trees, take your photos in front of the trees for a chance to win $500 Amazon gift card.  

TIP: Don’t miss the tree collaboration with #RHOD @dandrasimmons - it’s “beeutiful!” 🐝 

This event is FREE, but registration is required. (Link is in stories or DM “Tree” for the link.)

 #touroftrees #trinityfalls #trinityfallstx #mckinney #mckinneytx #mckinneytexas
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS - Dallas Zoo WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS - Dallas Zoo Lights

🌲 Dallas Zoo
🗓️ Now - January 4 

Wonder what the @dallaszoo is like after dark? Once Upon a Wild Light comes alive with more than two million lights, 5:30 pm - 9 pm each night through January (so you can do this one with your family during the holiday break!) 

While many of the animals sleep, DinoLumia and DinoVision: a Jurassic adventure comes out to play, along with tons of holiday light photo opps and winter fun experiences. Enjoy catching up through self-guided, self-paced walk-through and spend time together while taking photos, which is ideal if you don’t like the holiday overload! And don’t sleep on Santa here, as he has a certain twinkle in his eye the kids always seem to like to catch up with (mom was even able to get a shot.) 

And for the even bigger kids over 21, Dallas Zoo: After Dark, goes wild on Thursday, Dec. 12, 6-9 PM with eats, treats and holiday drinks,live music, and games and other ways to get you in the holiday spirit! 

 @DallasZoo @ReliantEnergy #dallas #dallasholiday #dfwevents #dallaszoolights #holidays #zoo #dallastexas #mamachallenge
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Classic Ch WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Classic Christmas 

🌲 Coca Cola Classic Christmas - Choctaw Stadium in Arlington  
🗓️ Now through Dec. 29

Growing up @cocacola made the holidays magic, so when Coca Cola Classic rolled down the road, we had to go peek! Partnering with @enchantchristmas, the experience is part lights, part photo opps and for my kids mostly FOOD and overall a lot of fun - all washed down with (of course, a Coca Cola!) 

What was also great was a little walk through memory lane with Coke Christmas moments throughout the years - cue the polar bears and 18 wheeler!

Experience: 
🎅Market Square (definitely hit up the t-shirts - reading each one is half the fun)
🎅 Snow Tubing (always our favorite)Ice Skating (truth: we don’t skate, but it’s perfect people watching) 
🎅 Interactive Light up Dance Floor
🎅 @cinemark Theatre with holiday movies 
🎅 Coca-Cola Lounge - 21+ Cocktail experience (looked great to go with the girls)
🎅 Santa Landing

And of course, the Eatery! Eyes (and mouths) got big here with featured food from State Fair of Tex winners like The Drowning Tacos (SO GOOD we then ordered the Birria Tacos, too all cooked onsite and with all the sauce!) 

It’s the real thing!

#ClassicChristmas #ChoctawStadium #ArlingtonTx #CocaCola #Dallas #DFWEvents #DFWHoliday #DFWInfluencers
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Prairie Li WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Prairie Lights

🎄 Prairie Lights, Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie 
🗓️ Now through Dec. 31 (NYE) at 6 pm 

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without @prairielights- with a packed car with blankets, Santa hats, hot cocoa and coffee, and blasting holiday music while we sing them even louder.  

A stunning two-mile drive through light park complete with a midway stop - The Holiday Village with carnival rides, amazing bites (corndogs, funnel cakes and more, oh my!) And this year we were surprised with a new light tunnel, reimagined walk-through forest and new displays, great photo opps, gifts, visit with Santa, a lighted strollable forest.  It’s perfectly timed for food, fun and a little time on foot! 

PRO TIP: Go early, get tickets in advance and spring for the fast pass on the weekends and prime holiday times. And enjoy it and don’t try to rush it - enjoy it! That includes entry and the experience (so bathroom before you go, but thankfully there’s one at The Holiday Village and you get the corn dog.) 

#GoGrandGP @grandfungp #GrandFunGP #dfwinfluencer #Dallas #grandprairie #prairielights #dfw
Mariah may be singing “it’s time,” but there Mariah may be singing “it’s time,” but there are still some ways to give a little love to Thanksgiving with a little DIY (hello old pumpkins!) from Mama Challenge! 

So excited to see my friends over at Good Day Fox 4 today for this fun segment!
Peardon My Reach - this one’s on repeat. 🍐 # Peardon My Reach - this one’s on repeat. 🍐 
#nationalcoffeeday 

#cinncinati #kentucky #newport #coffee #fall
Arlington makes Taco Tuesday even better by celebr Arlington makes Taco Tuesday even better by celebrating all month long with its #SaveTheTacos campaign, now - September 30.

Try and vote for “Best Taco in Arlington” from 12 participants:

🌮 Fiesta Fusion Shrimp Taco at Boiling Tails Co.

🌮 The Hunter Taco at Cut & Bourbon

🌮 El Jefe at Grounds and Gold
 
🌮 Jamaican Me Crazy at M’Jays House of Smoke

🌮 Champiqueso at Papaya Mexican Grill

🌮 What the Falafel at Prince Lebanese Grill

🌮 He’s Just a Po Boy at R Bar and Grill 

🌮 Celestial Pork Belly Taco at Rocketbelly
 
🌮 House Special Barbacoa at Tic-Taco
 
🌮 The Chicken of Wall “Street” at TJ’s Catfish & Wings & BBQ

🌮 Baja Shrimp Taco with Mango Salsa at Tom’s Burgers & Grill
 
🌮 Wanna Taco ‘Bout It at Zack’s Bistro

We can tell you which one is our favorite, but take away all the fun to find your favorite! 

(Link to Vote in Stories!)

#ArlingtonTX #TacoTuesday #SavetheTacos
Always great to see a few guys who work together l Always great to see a few guys who work together like each other, too.

It’s even better when they’re Texas Rangers and  we’re celebrating Hall of Famer Adrían Beltré!
And just like that…11th grade and 7th grade (and And just like that…11th grade and 7th grade (and then they drove off!)
Follow the “red light” to this one-of-a-kind e Follow the “red light” to this one-of-a-kind experience in DFW. 🚨 

Named after Bangkok’s legendary road of entertainment of all kinds (Sukhumvit Soi 11), it seems fitting this newly imagined destination would find its home in Arlington’s Entertainment District. Anchoring the NEW @loewsarlington, @soycowboytx (also from @bbbutchers / @berghospitality) recently swung open the curtain this summer with an opening that made heads turn at every corner of this 12,000 sq. ft. of sexy space - with 3 unique bars, patio, viewable kitchen and dining room. 

To call it a “Pan Asian restaurant” doesn’t do it justice with its rich menu of fresh sushi, dim sum, caviar, truffle, lobster, waygu (all things you don’t find in the home of the margarita machine and ballpark nachos.) And if you’re looking for entertainment, just take a peek into the expansive kitchen and watch your rolls or omakase be made. The cocktail menu is just as extravagant with everything from mezcal to Japanese whisky, you’re eyes will be just as happy as your lips upon your first sip. 

While we experienced live music, fashion show and more as part of the opening, the cool smoke installation and the people-watching is definitely just part of the menu at Soy Cowboy you’ll have to explore. 

Food Nerd Note: SoyCowboy is on the upcoming @dfwrestaurantweek menu for just $39, so it’s a steal to take your own trip on a budget. (Make your reservation.)

Chon mean (or what we hope is Cheers in in Thai!)
NEWS ALERT: Dallas Food Nerd is now on TV! 📺 ( NEWS ALERT: Dallas Food Nerd is now on TV! 📺 
(Well today at least.)

Normally we’re always behind the smartphone camera, today we stepped out in front of the TV screen! The lovely folks at the new morning show Morning on Merit Street @morningonmeritstreet invited DFN for a little “roundtable” discussion about dining trends with our own Food Nerd @autumnreo / @mamachallenge and Bill Trevino of @craftandvinerestaurant CraftandVine along with hosts @dominiquesachse and @fanchonstinger for a little dishin’ on dining!

(If you’re able to take a look online, keep watching to see our new friend Pearl 🐶 and friends from @sweetpearlsicecream share their incredibly sweet story with @hungreehannah!) 

✔️ And just like we shared on the show, we want to know what you think! What do you think about Table Limits on reservations? Yes restaurants should have them or no way?
Round #2: Now he’s off for CIT at YMCA Camp Grad Round #2: Now he’s off for CIT at YMCA Camp Grady Spruce! It’s hard to separate them, but we’re excited he’s so happy to be ready for this adventure!
July 4th kicked a week early! 🎆 Love when the n July 4th kicked a week early! 🎆 Love when the neighborhood shines!
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