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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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Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW

December 1, 2021 By Autumn Rose Reo 5 Comments

Looking to celebrate the holidays? In the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex we’re lucky to have so many to experience but here’s our shortlist of Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW!

Check back often: This list will update throughout the season. 

Ready for the holidays? Don’t worry, they’re already here, so get ready.

And in the DFW metroplex, from Fort Worth to Arlington, Addison to Grapevine (and of course everything in between), there are plenty of great ones to choose from every day of the week for holiday fun this time of year. However, there are a few events that you need to have on your must-do, must-go, must-see list for the holidays in 2021! (And make sure to look as some of these have giveaways too!) 


Holiday at the Arboretum

Nov. 10 – Dec. 31, 2021

Dallas / Arboretum

Tickets: Prices range with activities (some activities included with admission.)

Holiday at the Arboretum features the return of the magnificent The 12 Days of Christmas outdoor exhibit, as well as almost 1 million lights throughout the garden at night, trimming the architecture of the historic homes and lighting the canopies overhead—including a 30-foot-tall tree. But that’s just the beginning! You can snag a kiss under the mistletoe, get a glimpse of Santa and a real reindeer, have tea, and much more. There are activities available both morning and nights, throughout the week and the weekends so make sure to check the schedule to get your favorites. Get the details.

GO TO GRAPEVINE: Christmas at the Gaylord

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2, 2022

Grapevine / Gaylord Texan Hotel and Convention Center

Prices: Rates range based on activities (Save with promo code REO)

Without a doubt, if someone is looking for something Christmas, I always send them to Grapevine. There’s so much to do in the Christmas Capital of Texas, especially at the Gaylord Texan. This year’s events may not include ICE!, but it does include a special challenge, Mission: Save Christmas featuring Elf™. Journey through some of your favorite movie scenes as you join Buddy the Elf to help save Christmas. Complete fun-filled challenges alongside Buddy and friends as you visit the candy cane forest, assist with toy preparations at the North Pole, prepare for Santa’s arrival at the iconic department store, and take part in an epic virtual snowball fight in Central Park. But that’s not all – just make a weekend of it and enjoy a stroll down main street and you’ll get in the holiday mood with tons of shops, restaurants and events happening all season.   Get the details.

 

Radiance: A Holiday Lights Spectacular

Nov. 19 – Dec. 26, 2021

Frisco / Weatherford / Decatur 

Prices: $30 per car / $50 for VIP (special VIP lane, hot chocolate and magical light glasses for the kids.)

Enjoy the wonder of RADIANCE! A Holiday Light Spectacular, at Frisco, Decatur, or Weatherford, or gather your friends and experience all three. Gather the family and sip a cup of hot chocolate as you marvel at two million lights, animated to the tunes of your favorite holiday classics from the safety and comfort of your car! Get the details.

Enchant Christmas

Nov. 26 – Jan. 2, 2022

Dallas / Fair Park

Prices: $25 for kids / $20-$35 for adults

Get ready to light up your Instagram. Experience thousands of radiant Christmas lights as you immerse yourself in a spectacular Light Maze adventure. Guided by dazzling lights, you’ll search for nine of Santa’s reindeer who have become lost in a giant snowstorm and need your help finding their way out of the mystical Enchant forest. Glide through an illuminated ice skating trail, stroll through the Enchant market for goodies including some great vendors (bring on the tamales and the raclette, enjoy Mrs. Claus storytime and visit with Santa himself in Santa’s Landing. Get the details. 

The Trains at Northpark

Nov. 13 – Jan. 2, 2022

The exhibit closes for Christmas and Thanksgiving, also closing early for both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Dallas / Northpark Center 

Prices: Children under 2 free / Children ages 2-12 $5 / Adults $10 / Seniors over 65 $5

For the past 34 years The Trains at NorthPark have been a holiday tradition for many families (you can spot them through the mall sporting their PJs as they head to the exhibit!) Benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Dallas (RMHD), and presented by Bank of Texas, The Trains at NorthPark features 750 railcars on a 1,600-foot elaborate configuration of tracks and scenes. The largest miniature train track in Texas, the Trains at NorthPark features cityscapes like Dallas, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and Fair Park; New York with Times Square and Grand Central Terminal; Washington, D.C. with The White House; and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Other highlights include New England’s fall foliage, the Grand Canyon, Garden of the Gods, Mount Rushmore and Route 66. The charming exhibit has been seen by around two million since its original run over 30 years ago.  (As you can see here from 2013, we’re big fans!)  Get the details.

SNOWDAY Dallas

Nov. 19 – Dec. 24, 2021

Dallas / Galleria Dallas

SNOWDAY Prices: Children under 3 free / Kids ages 4 – 12 $12 / Adults $27   

Santaland Prices: Family admission ticket for up to 6 people total starts at $28

Galleria Dallas wins the award in our opinion when it comes to holiday! Maybe it’s the largest indoor Christmas tree in the U.S., maybe it’s the red twinkling lights, maybe it’s the free holiday shows featuring award-winning ice skaters, or maybe it’s the shopping! We do know that it’s definitely one of its newest additions, SNOWDAY! In its third year,  come discover what magic awaits you on the other side of the North Pole where the elves play. Guests board the train to a wonderland of fun with festive photo ops, enchanted rooms, interactive spaces, and nostalgic moments with photo booths integrated throughout the exhibit. This year you can make your trip extra magical with a visit with the big man himself. Catch the next train to Santaland with daily non-stop service to the North Pole! There you will find Santa who already knows every child’s name (yes, really!)

 

The Elf on the Shelf’s Magical Holiday Journey

Nov. 18 – Jan. 2, 2022

Arlington / Choctaw Stadium (formerly Globe Life Park)

Prices: $10 for kids / $20 for adults 

Join Santa’s Elves on a quest to collect the ingredients for Christmas Spirit! Magically shrink down to elf size and embark on a journey through twinkling wonderlands to set Santa and Christmas back on course.  Visit with jolly ol’ Saint Nick, snap great pictures with family and friends, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy yummy treats. Get the details. 

The best part is you’ll also get a chance to get you’ll find a German Christmas at the Texas Christkindl Market. Discover holiday cheer, decorations, German treats, and one-­of-­a-­kind finds and gifts from your favorite vendors. Get the details. And make the most of it with a trip to the most Christmasy restaurant in DFW,  Campo Verde and Decorator’s Warehouse, the largest Christmas store in Texas! For more fun in Arlington, check out 0ur Arlington holiday bucket list!

Dallas Zoo Lights

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2, 2022

Dallas / Dallas Zoo

Prices: Member $50 per car / Non-Member $65 per car

After the animals head in for the evening, the Dallas Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over one million twinkling lights illuminating the Zoo throughout the holiday season. Discover realistic silk-covered lanterns in the shape of your favorite animals, plus even more light displays and festivities for the entire family! Get the details.

Dallas Zoo Lights Activities:

  • Holiday Light Show
  • Santa meet-and-greet
  • Nature ornament-making activity
  • Nightly musical performances throughout Zoo
  • North Rainbow Arch
  • Whimsical African watering hole at Lantern Ridge
  • Santa’s Sleigh photo op
  • Elves’ Workshop at the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo with Animal Encounters every 30 minutes
  • S’mores, specialty donuts, funnel cakes, and hot chocolate.  

(photo credit Dallas Zoo )

Holiday in the Park

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2, 2022

Arlington / Six Flags Over Texas 

Ticket Prices vary

If you’re looking for holiday thrills you’ll find them at Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Texas. Discover a winter wonderland filled with more than 1 million lights holiday attractions including visits with Santa, sing-a-longs, holiday shows and don’t forget the treats (s’mores!)  At the Merry Marketplace grab a few holiday gifts filled with holiday treats, shopping, and photo opportunities. Get the details.

Arlington for the Holidays

Prairie Lights 

Nov. 25 – Dec. 31, 2021 Thanksgiving – New Year’s Eve (hours vary) 

Grand Prairie / Joe Pool Lake

Prices start at $40 per car

Long one of my favorite of displays in DFW, Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie is well worth the time and money! There is such much even beyond two miles of lit paths and four million lights, it’s a whole night of fun for the kid in all of us. 2021 features the return of Holiday Village, the magical walk-thru forest, carnival rides, photos with Santa, and more.  Get the details.

Gift of Lights 

Nov. 25 – Jan. 2, 2022

Fort Worth / Texas Motor Speedway

Prices: Tickets start at $30

Head to Texas Motor Speedway for the Gift of Lights.  There you will see a fantastic light show, travel to Santa’s Village where you will meet Santa and experience what Christmas is like at the North Pole. First responders and military also get a special gift with a free 5 x 7 photo in Santa’s Village. Get the details. 

Vitruvian Lights 

Nov. 26 – Jan. 2, 2022

Addison / Vitruvian Park 

Free 

The most dazzling and spectacular time of the year is here!  Vitruvian Park transforms into a magical holiday wonderland during Vitruvian Lights. Walkthrough the park to view the lights, gourmet food trucks, sweet treats, FREE photos with Santa, classic holiday characters, elf balloon artist, and Metrocrest Services Donation Drive plus live music! Get the details.

Vitruvian Lights

                   (Photo credit: Visit Addison Facebook) 

Christmas at the Anatole

Nov. 28 – Dec. 24, 2021

Dallas / Hilton Anatole

Rates and prices range based on activities.

When it comes to having some real face-time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas at the Anatole is the perfect place. The legendary hotel transforms into a winter wonderland complete with festive décor, Santa fun, holiday movies and even live reindeer. But waking up with Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus might be the icing on the Christmas cookies! Make a weekend of it with a stay at the hotel which includes a holiday movie night or try to snag one of the select opportunities for Breakfast with Santa only. Either way, you’ll make some great memories! Get the details.

Hilton-Anatole-Christmas 

Daystar Christmas

Nov. 25 – Jan. 2, 2022

Bedford / Daystar

Free admission

I can’t believe for so many years I didn’t know about this event, but I’m so glad we do now! A beautiful, intimate way to spend the holidays together looking at lights and the life-size nativity scene, Daystar Christmas is even adding a massive drive-thru tunnel stretching 950 ft. with more than 11,000 Lights. There are amazing backdrops for photos, there are visits with Santa and there’s even a coffee shop that you can visit with sweets, cocoa, and more.  Get the details.

Daystar

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Nov. 20 – Dec. 23, 2021

Fort Worth / Casa Manana

Prices: Start at $19 (Get 20% OFF with code AUTUMN20)

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage with all of our favorite characters. This musical adaption is filled with holiday hits like “A Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year”. Pictures with Santa are also available before every show! Get the details. 

 

POGO Pass

Dallas / Fort Worth

Want to save some money on memories this holiday season? Looking for a great stocking stuffer? The POGO Pass is one pass, one price, for one year of fun. Save even more with promo code MAMACHALLENGE Get the details. 

 

Check back often: This list will update throughout the season. 

Joy to the Meal: Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing Cups

November 15, 2021 By Autumn Rose Reo 31 Comments

Take your favorite parts of Thanksgiving and give it a little twist for easier portions and better presentation with these delicious Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing Cups. 

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Hillshire Brands Company. All opinions are entirely my own. #joy2themeal

Growing up having a large extended family had its advantages – especially during the holidays.

Not just because I had four grandmas or double the amount of presents…but because I got to sit down for the holiday meal not just one time, but sometimes up to three or four times a season, per holiday.


Yep, pecan pie is still good after three rounds…

Having this special opportunity wasn’t just about the food of course, but the experience of indulging in several different traditions with those family members and of course, all the unique ways they enjoyed their family dishes.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

Everyone had their own twist on a dish, especially dressing…or stuffing. Whatever you call it, each family had a unique take on if it – from a dense casserole hinted with sage, to more of a smooth creamy blend of cornbread, garlic and sausage.

Best of all, they were all good even though each one had its own flavor profile and “secret ingredient.”  

Unfortunately those traveling meals from one relatives table to another have changed as I’ve grown up and now have a family of my own…I guess you can say I can finally say I’ve moved to the adult table.

But the smells of onion, sage and sausage stuffing baking early in the oven as a child still exist in my mind, my belly and of course, still in my heart.

So paying homage to those family stuffing recipes and adding my own little legacy, I created my own recipe for Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing Cups.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

Since our family table is no longer the size of a football team, a huge dish of stuffing isn’t really necessary. So instead I’ve made the stuffing in a muffin pan for easing serving sizes PLUS this way there’s more golden crust in each bite. Best of all, I’ve paired Jimmy Dean® Sausage with cranberries and apples, for a savory-sweet combination that might make your grandma a little upset when you ask for seconds.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

This recipe also seems to be so much easier than the recipe I remember helping at the table to prepare growing up. With a few basic ingredients and the combination of the smoky pork with the sweetness of the apples and the tang of the cranberries is exactly what Thanksgiving tastes like to me – all in one perfectly sized bite.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

After a quick trip to Walmart for fresh produce and stop by the refrigerated section for Jimmy Dean Sausage, I was toasting up the bits of bread, English muffins and whatever bread I had been holding on to in the freezer in no time.

Jimmy-Dean-Bowl

It was the smell of the Jimmy Dean Sausage that quickly had my kids running to see what mama was up to and of course, a few minutes later they too were in the kitchen helping me to put together our family stuffing.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

In just 30 minutes, the aroma of sausage, apples and garlic filled my nose and took me back instantly to my childhood memories. But more importantly it helped me realize that now being a mom, it’s my turn to continue those traditions with my kids and make a few of our own.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

So this year, make your holidays go from good to great!

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Sausage & Cranberry Stuffing Cups


  • Author: Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge.com
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Description

A delicious perfectly portion of stuffing with the savory flavor of sausage and sweet tang of cranberry and apples!


Ingredients

Scale
  • Cooking Spray
  • 3 cups of bread, cut into ½ inch cubes
  • ¼ cup of EVOO
  • salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2/3 cup onion, chopped finely
  • 2/3 cup celery, chopped finely
  • 1 pound Jimmy Dean Sausage (you can use Original or Sage)
  • 3 tablespoons garlic, chopped
  • 1 apple, chopped finely
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ¾ teaspoon fresh sage, shopped (you can may omit if you use the Sage Sausage)
  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease muffin/cupcake pin with cooking spray.
  2. On baking sheet, toss bread cubes with 2 tablespoons of oil, season with salt and pepper. Bake until toasted (around 10 minutes.) Allow to cool slightly and then transfer to a bowl.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter and oil, then add onion and celery. Cook over high heat, stirring until golden, for around 5-7 minutes. Add the sausage, garlic, sage and cook until sausage is cooked. Add apples and cranberries and allow to soften, but not to cook completely.
  4. Mix sausage mixture, eggs, and broth into croutons. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Pack the stuffing into muffin/cupcake pan with your hands, allowing for a rounded top to sit above the pan’s edge. Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Allow to cool for few minutes and then lift the cups out of the pan using a knife.
  6. Serve with your favorite holiday entrée!

Notes

  • These can be served as an appetizer for a holiday party, too!

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

What’s your favorite holiday dish? Do you eat stuffing or dressing?

Share your love for the holiday meal at #joytothemeal.

And visit http://www.joytothemeal.com for more great recipes to take your holidays from good to great.

Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

Three Steps To a Turkey Touchdown This Thanksgiving

October 26, 2021 By Autumn Rose Reo 5 Comments

Your first turkey dinner doesn’t need to be THAT hard. Make a turkey touchdown this Thanksgiving with these three steps I learned my first Thanksgiving!  

I received a Jennie-O Turkey to help me test-run my first Thanksgiving. I’m sharing my experience here with you to show how easy it is!

Making Thanksgiving dinner seems to be a rite of passage that I had not passed — until this year. With scheduling issues making it impossible for a traditional Turkey Day dinner to be shared by my family, I decided not to just have the day come and go, but to go ahead and celebrate — a week in advance, and I would make it all. I mean the holidays are about spending a special time together not just on one pre-selected day right? 

There was only one little problem with my plan – I had NEVER made a turkey or anything for Thanksgiving. That’s right. I had peeled, mashed and creamed up the potatoes and even warmed up the rolls, but the task of Thanksgiving had never fell on my shoulders. So I made it my goal not just to make a turkey, but a big spread complete with: 

  • Bacon Dressing
  • Homemade rolls 
  • Truffled Mashed Potatoes
  • Blue Cheese Bacon Brussel Sprouts
  • Brown Gravy
  • Spiced Cranberry Sauce
  • and Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Brittle
While the menu was fun to create, it was the fear of that turkey coming out a burnt mess that had me so scared to make! I’ve always heard all these horrible stories about making turkey, but I wanted it to be amazing! 
 
 
So off to the store I went to get the ingredients for my Cilantro-Lime Turkey (a recipe I had found in my Better Homes and Gardens)! 

1) First off, was to pick out my turkey. Oh there were LOTS of turkeys to choose from! Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the Jennie-O Oven ready turkey breast – they were sold out! However, the meat manager at my grocery store was able to find me one last turkey, so it was a good sign that the Jennie-O was in high demand. 

2) Once I got this baby home, I was able to take it straight to the oven after a few special touches! Because it was a turkey breast, the weight of the turkey was less than full-size turkey, making my cooking time a little less than the big birds! And while I could have left it alone with no thawing or seasoning, I decided to add a special Texas touch with favorite seasoning Cilantro, the zesty flavor of lime and a simple marinade of cilantro and honey!  

3) Then I popped it in the oven and 2.5 hours later – behold perfection. Well, almost. We still had to carve it and taste it for the official call. 

<Yep, it was beautiful, it was delicious and juicy! SUCCESS!

please take a look here and many of the other delicious recipes in the November 2013 Better Homes and Gardens!

I can’t recommend the Jennie-O Oven Ready Turkey for your Thanksgiving! And IF you have any left overs then make sure you cook up this Turkey Tortilla Soup to savor it to the last drop! 

 

Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

October 21, 2021 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

I’m thrilled to be partnering with Market Street to highlight features, deals and more each month especially this recipe for Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole! #MarketStreetTX

When I was growing up, Sunday dinner was always a special occasion with a big meal like roast, ham or meatloaf with all the fixings. Now as an adult, I try to still make sure Sundays are spent with the family.  And when possible, I try to make the dishes that also mean a lot to me with a few twists of my own.  One of those is this Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole. 

Brussels Spout, Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

Most people fall into two categories: those who love brussel sprouts and those who hate them. I actually fell into the later group until a few months ago when I fell in love. After a trip to Slowbone BBQ in Dallas, I bit into their sell-out side, Cauliflower-Brussel Sprout Gratin, and couldn’t get enough. But I thought I could make it even better by adding broccoli and more cheese (there’s never such thing as too much cheese) to create my idea of the perfect side dish. So for special days like Thanksgiving or a Sunday dinner, this dish is the consummate side dish that you’ll trade your last dinner role or dessert to have just one more creamy bite.


Butter

It would be fitting that I would get all the ingredients together and forget the most important ingredient, the heavy cream! But no worries, where there is a will, there is a way and a substitute!

HeavyCreamAlternative

This dish it a combination of creamy cheese, the ultimate trio of veggies and little crunch that will keep you coming back for more…and more.

Casserole

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Brussels Sprout, Broccoli & Cauliflower Casserole


  • Yield: 12 1x
Print Recipe
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Description

Inspired by a great recipe at Slow Bone BBQ in Dallas, I added a little something extra with broccoli and white cheddar.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (or heavy cream alternative)
  • 1/3 cup chopped shallots
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
  • 1 medium head of broccoli, trimmed and cut into small (1-inch) florets
  • 1 1 medium head of cauliflower, trimmed and cut into small (1-inch) florets
  • 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese (divided use)
  • 1 cup white cheddar, cut into small (1-inch) cubes
  • Salt, pepper and white pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
  2. Combine cream, shallots and sage in large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Brown bread crumbs (about 2 minutes) then transfer to a bowl to cool. Stir in parsley.
  4. Arrange equal mix of of vegetables in the buttered baking dish (13×9 or larger). Then add 1 cup of cubed white cheddar.
  5. Arrange remaining vegetables over the first layer. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
  6. Pour cream mixture evenly over the vegetables.
  7. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
  8. Remove foil from casserole; sprinkle evenly with toasted bread crumbs.
  9. Bake uncovered 15 minutes or until bread crumbs are browned.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

Another item you want to make sure you have on the list is the right cookware. There’s just something about pulling whatever you’re making out of the oven and placing it on the table to share with the family as they share conversation over dinner and making memories.  I remember what my grandma’s stuffed peppers smelled liked, taste like and looked like when she lifted the lid off the casserole dish. For this dish, I used both the white 7.9 inch Round Casserole with a lid and the 15.3 inch Rectangular Roaster.

LodgeStoneWear

Family dinners also mean a lot to Market Street, which is why they offer for a limited time a chance to create your own family dinner memories with your own set of great bakeware and cookware from Lodge.  Founded in 1896 by Joseph Lodge, and still owned and managed by the descendants of the Lodge Family, Lodge Manufacturing is one of America’s oldest cookware companies. Right now until January at Market Street you can earn one e-sticker for every qualifying $10 they spend towards your own collection of Lodge Ware. By tracking your e-stickers on your receipt, when you have collected the required number of e-stickers, you can select your desired cookware or bakeware! Just give your Rewards account number to the cashier at checkout to redeem your FREE item.

What a great gift idea as well for the holidays or use the dish to take to a family dinner with every intention to leave it as a thank you gift!

14-Loyalty-0772_Lodge_LandingPg

Not a member of the Market Street Rewards Program? Sign up now to begin collecting your e-stickers online or on your own free Market Street app.

Make an entire meal anytime of the year with these recipe ideas from top bloggers using Lodge Wear available for free from Market Street! 

Celebrate Supper #MarketStreetDFW #Ad

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Gift Guide: Hot Holiday Toys 2020

November 25, 2020 By Mallory Jones 34 Comments

Working overtime to help Santa get the right gifts under the tree? This list is kid-tested and kid-approved to get you all the love. Here’s our guide to Hot Holiday Toys 2020. 

2020 has been a doozy and we all deserve something really good under the tree…especially the kids. So I’ve enlisted the help of my favorite “two elves” to help discover the best toys for everyone on your holiday list. 

That’s right – how else do you think my research panel really works? By asking the pros (i.e. the kids) to let me know their thoughts (and put it together) that’s how I REALLY find out how cool (or not so cool) the new toys each year will be.


And this year we’ve been hard at work and we want to make it fun for everyone, so we’re giving it away! YES GIVEAWAY TIME. 


MAMACHALLENGE TIP:

Make money while you shop with Rakuten! Download the plugin and see the savings as you shop. (My last check was over $500! AND Honey will tell you when prices are at their lowest (and highest.) Both of these are worth downloading to make the most of your money anytime you shop! 


See below for our Guide to Hot Holiday Toys 2020!

For Littles

Disney Juniors E-I-Oh! Mickey Feature Plush

Who doesn’t love Mickey Mouse! Sing and dance along with Disney Juniors E-I-Oh! Mickey Feature Plush to the “Old McDonald” song, the Chicken Dance and“What Animal Sound is That?” He’s snuggly and soft and will keep them busy for hours. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blue’s Clues Dance-Along and You

Our toys aren’t just something to do – they’re also about being our friend. Again a toy targeted for the littles, but my kids have had just as much fun with Blue’s Clues Dance-Along and You as you dance and sing. And the guitar acts as the remote!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Pinkfong Baby Shark Official – Baby Shark Dancing DJ – Wowwee

This one doesn’t need an introduction – it’s Pinkfong Baby Shark Official – Baby Shark Dancing DJ! Don’t hate me because you’ll be singing this later but Baby Shark does much more like teach letters, counting, and when you dance, it detects and will start dancing with you. And don’t worry, it sings more than that song, too! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Crayola Colors of the World Crayons

This may be my favorite item and it’s just a few dollars! Crayola Colors of the World Crayons is really showing its true colors with its COLORS OF THE WORLD CRAYONS. Kids can actually reach into the box of newly formed 24 and find colors that represent them and the people around them!  Even the names of the colors are reflective of them or blend together to find their perfect shade.

Basic Fun Care Bears

And I don’t know if this toy is for them or for me, but New 2020 Carebears ARE BACK! Yes, and more than ever, they’re reminding us to be positive, to share, and to care, right? So those of us that grew up in the 80s this was THE toy! Plus while kids are at home, this is a great gift to give them comfort and share a hug when you can’t always give the hug to the person you want! So this is a great grandparents gift! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Crayola Glitter Dots Keychain Craft Set

Crayola also has done a great job keeping kids busy! So this is Squish the Crayola Glitter Dots Keychain Craft Set. This is another great stocking stuffer or something they can make now and give to their friends and neighbors by leaving it at the door! You just squish the dots  into the molds to create one-of-a-kind charms in a sweet treat theme!

For Bigger Kids

VTECH Kidzoom Creator Cam

If there was a hot gift this season, this is it to me. Designed for ages 5, I’ve had fun playing with this one. This is the VTECH Kidizoom Creator Cam and it’s so cool I want one. This isn’t just a camera – it’s a tripod/selfie stick, microphone, video tools, a green screen and everything you need to be a “digital creator.” And what I love as a parent is they don’t need your iPad or smartphone to make it work! 

Crayola Marker Maker Set

With so much time at home, art projects and being able to express themselves through art has had so many benefits for kids. So here’s a gift they can use to create those beautiful works of art by making their own markers! Create your own custom colors with the Crayola Marker Maker machine, 16 Makeable Markers, Customizable Marker Labels, Color Mixing Guide, Instruction Sheet, and Assorted Inks.

Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Scrub Tub Animal Playset

And the fun with colors doesn’t stop there either! Crayola has done a remarkable job recreating fun ways for kids to have fun like with this is a Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Scrub Tub Playset. Forget flat color books – they are taking color 3D in a fun playset. Best of all, when you’re done coloring and want to do something new – give ‘em a scrub and start again! 

Hatchimals Pixies Riders

The biggest thing in toys last season was the “surprise” with toys like Hatchimals Pixies Riders and LOL Dolls as gifts within a gift. And this Christmas you’ll find this idea in so many gifts. We all remember the Hatchimals 

Hasbro Star Wars The Child Animatronic Edition

We all want to call this Baby Yoda, but this is THE ONE and this is the one they’ll definitely want with this Star Wars The Child Animatronic toy. Touching the top of his head activates over 25 sound and motion combinations, including happy and excited sounds, giggles, babbles, and more, all while the figure’s head moves up and down. Plus it’s too cute!  

Pre-teens & Teens

Electric Party Pop Scooter

The big kids always seem to be the hardest to buy for. But with us all at home more, I’m all about getting them to be more active! Kids don’t really want bikes anymore, the hot gift is the Electric Party Pop Scooter! And these cooters are a party on their own! 

This is a foot activated powered electric scooter that goes up  to 7.5 mph (12 km/h) for up to 30 minutes of continuous ride time while you roll with these multi-color LED lights.

Black Label from Razor E90

And for the even bigger kids, this scooter has all the power in their hands! The Razor Black Label E90 electric scooter that features a hand operated front brake in addition to the rear-fender brake, creating a dual-braking system for better control. Plus with a higher weight limit, this is a good one for those tweens and teens.

Nintendo Ring Fit Adventure 

And last but not least, this is one game I love recommending! I don’t know what we would’ve done without the Nintendo Ring Fit! We have to keep the kids moving and with their virtual school this is a fun way to make everyone happy. It’ll make them squat, lounge, and move along with keeping count of calories. This is also one you can do together! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Young Scientist Plasma Globe

Kids at home means we’re all taking on teaching too. Young Scientist Plasma Globe is making science fun by showing the power of electricity by being activated by touch and sound! You might remember something like this in the early 90s – and I always wanted one!

Snapstyle Mask Maker

Of course we’ve all been in mask but we can let kids have fun with it with this SnapStyle Printable Mask maker from  If you can take a picture of it, you can make a mask of it. Kids can print their own mask that matches their clothing or show their creativity – and yes these are WHO compliant mask! 

Holiday Events in DFW 2020

 

Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms

November 20, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 30 Comments

The holidays may bring opportunities for fancy dinners and cocktail parties, but it’s the impromptu moments that sometimes mean the most like these easy Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms.

During the holidays, you always be prepared with a shortlist of simple and quick go-to recipes like these mushrooms stuffed with Boursin® cheese to earn you the reputation as the holiday hostess with the mostess – even if you didn’t put forth much effort!

Basil-Mushrooms

I love that the holidays remind us to spending together. It’s so easy all year long to let everything get in the way, but at least between rolling out the first big orange pumpkin until the Big Ball drops on January 1, we try to make time to say hello, catch up and give that much-needed hug.


Wine

While you can’t always be ready with a fridge full of perfect appetizers ready to go, having a few staples around will make your guests think you’ve been slaving away for hours before they showed up! Check out the Walmart deli and produce areas for meats and cheeses like Boursin® to create a cheese plate and these Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms (that have less than five ingredients) paired with a good wine for a beautiful and delicious presentation to be proud to your own! 

ingredients

The feature of the Garlic and Herb stuffed mushrooms is creamy Boursin®  cheese. Seasoned with garlic and fine herbs wrapped in its signature foil, it’s hard not to devour this rich, but airy cheese before it’s stuffed into the mushrooms (just remember to buy two – one to nibble, one to use for the recipe.)

mushrooms

Because there’s already the great flavor of herbs and garlic, the cheese doesn’t need anything extra added to the filling. However, I added a few leaves of fresh basil chopped finely to just add a little more color to the mixture, but in a fix, you don’t have to worry about herbs. Lastly, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and baked in the oven, you’ll have a sinfully decadent bite-sized app in just about 25-30 minutes.

Now just be ready for the rich smell of garlic that will take over your kitchen…it’s heavenly! 

boursin-cheese

For another quick app that will wow your gifts, make sure you always have veggies, breads and crackers around, especially during the holidays. You can present a serious spread by just pan frying a few slices of bread with butter then spreading a little Boursin®  Monterey Jack & Spicy Pepper Cheese Dip on the top.

Boursin-Dip

Or for a little healthier spin, stuff some of the creamy spread in celery sticks. Two apps in about two minutes (okay, maybe five), you’re ready to enjoy a little time to catch up with you eat up! 

Mushroom-Bite

You can try other recipes with Boursin® on its holiday resource www.boursinpartytricks.com.

Pinterest-Boursin

 

Print
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Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Description

A quick and easy yet impressive appetizer perfect for last-minute hospitality.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Cooking Spray
  • 1 package whole mushrooms (white or portobellos)
  • 1 package Boursin® cheese
  • 2–3 basil leaves, chopped finely (optional)
  • 2 tablespoon parmesan cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Spray pan with cooking spray.
  3. Remove mushrooms steps from the caps. Chop stems finely.
  4. Combine chopped mushrooms, chopped basil and Boursin® cheese in a bowl until filly blended.
  5. Add mixture to mushroom caps until full and rounded.
  6. Place all the mushrooms in pan and then sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake mushrooms for 25-30 minutes until golden.
  8. When done, remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes and serve!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 10
  • Calories: 97
  • Sugar: 0
  • Sodium: 158
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 1
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: 25

Did you make this recipe?

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5 Holiday Reminders Every Mom Needs

November 1, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo 76 Comments

Christmas is hard work. Take out the stress with Happy Cards and let the elves do the dirty work for a change. 

Thanks to the elves at Happy Cards for sharing this sponsored post how we can all get a little more happy this holiday.

If you have scissors in your hands as your wrap one of the countless numbers of gifts under the tree or plotting the demise of your “Elf on the Shelf” while you prop it for the daily antic before your children wake up, then you need to stop. 

I repeat: put down the scissors or the Elf. (Or in my case, both of them since the Elf was about to go down.) 


Happy-Cards

For most mamas, Christmas is one of the best (and worst) times of the year. You may not admit it (at least not aloud), but while you love those uploading your annual Santa’s photos with the kids for everyone to see, Christmas is hard work.

Yes, I said it.


If Cheesecake Factory, Saks Fifth Avenue off 5th, Panera Bread, Sephora, SpaFinder.com, Bed, Bath and Beyond, and Lord & Taylor makes you happy, then just keep reading. 


But before calling me a Grinch or a Scrooge, understand I love this time of year with beautiful decorations on everything from the fireplace to the mailbox, the look on the kids faces on Christmas morning when they unwrap the gifts, and all the other magic that comes with the holidays. But mama, you put in some serious work to make it all happen and you weren’t always smiling when you did it. Oh, I know I wasn’t…far from it.  

 

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 

 

My ❤️is so full! Our first Christmas in our new neighborhood and carolers came with cookies and song. When I saw this moment at the door, the tears started flowing. It was like the moment the Grinch’s heart grew 10x. Pretty sure all my Christmas wishes have been granted. I’m a lucky lady. (Go to my Instastories to hear.) . . . #Christmas #carolers #holiday #dfw #dallasmoms #arlingtontx #viridiandfw #viridian #thisisarlington

A post shared by mamachallenge | Autumn Reo (@mamachallenge) on Dec 16, 2018 at 5:55pm PST


There’s nothing fun about interrupting the very precious hours of sleep you get for almost a month just to give life to a red inanimate “elf” with a creative theme that your kids will laugh at for :10 seconds in the morning. 

HappyCards (5 of 6)

Look closely. Very closely to see what’s happening to this Elf.

There’s nothing fun about climbing all over the outside (and inside) of your house while putting yourself in danger to put up lights, just to take them down again a month later. 

There’s nothing fun about trying to get just the right something for that someone and then bracing yourself when you have to be around them (even if you don’t really like them.) 

But for most moms, they wouldn’t have it any other way. Even for those of us that actually have to purchase our own gifts, wrap them to put under the tree, write our kids or spouses name on them, and then act like we’re surprised on Christmas morning. (Or in some cases, not get anything at all in your stocking because if you don’t do it, no one will.) 

Happy-Cards

However, we also know that nothing’s going to change and if we want the magic of Christmas to happen (and I know I’m not letting go of it), then we feel we have to do it. #MOMGUILT is real and we all make us feel like it’s what you have to do. 

But there are a couple of things you can do to put the HO-HO-HO back in the holidays rather than the BOO-HOO-HOO.

We all need to remember the following:

  1. No one is thinking why you didn’t coordinate your wrapping paper under the tree once they open the gift. 
  2. There is no mom award given at the end of the holidays for making it the best Christmas ever. 
  3. If you don’t make it to every Christmas event on the list, no one is going to know. 
  4. If you don’t send out Christmas cards this year, you can post a photo on Facebook and call it done. Or send an Easter card or try just writing a letter. 
  5. You don’t need to work so hard to find the right gift. Gift cards really do make people happy, so buy it and be done. 

Happy-Cards

Yes, gift cards. I know trying to find the “right card” is hard enough…but with Happy Cards, you can alleviate all that. Just pick one of the many cards and the giftee can choose what they want to get…and quite possibly more than one present. They can enjoy their favorite restaurant, start on the house project they’ve been waiting to do, or even get their resolutions moving – all with the Happy Card! 

Happy-Cards

Remember, what your family really wants is a mama that’s happy, rested and wants to enjoy Christmas. And honestly, so do I. So we’re happy the little elves at Happy Cards are sharing a $100 Happy Lady Happy Card for one lucky mama. 

So what are you waiting for? Enter below.

It’s just a click to get one step closer to a service from being a Happy Mama with a Happy Lady card from Happy Cards. And you have until Dec. 24 at midnight to enter. That’s all you have to do. (We’ll that and whatever you still have on your Christmas list – that probably isn’t necessary either.) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Make a New Holiday Tradition with the Lights at Daystar

November 21, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Make a holiday tradition that you will all love with the lights at Daystar. Visit Santa, take photos at Christmas Town and experience the meaning of Christmas. #DaystarChristmas

Thanks to Daystar for the invitation and the opportunity to enjoy the lights with my family and not just taking the photos! 

DFW is home to many amazing light displays. Each has its own unique experience and we love going back year after year to see what’s new and to visit our favorite parts. But this year we had the opportunity to add a beautiful new-to-us light display to the list – and it was just around the corner from our home at Daystar TV in Euless. 

Daystar


The lights at Daystar actually aren’t new – they started them in 2005 as a nice way to celebrate the season. But the beauty quickly caught on and the display grew two-fold with one million lights and now 1.5 million in 2019 with the addition of a new beautiful light drive-through tunnel along with more fun in  Christmas Town, an area dedicated to entertaining children by bringing in their favorite holiday characters and a lighted gazebo surrounded by toy soldiers. Children can also see a 6-foot tall Olaf joined by his two penguin friends, Santa’s workshop with elves, and a gingerbread house filled with gingerbread people. And don’t miss a moment on the Santa Sleigh! 

Daystar

We were able to park right at the displays and take a look around and visit each area at our own schedule while taking photos and singing along the way. The kids LOVED it and what I loved is it was just the right size – without lines, without traffic, and without any costs. 

And when we left we had that warm and fuzzy feeling that you want at Christmas. 

Daystar

Daystar

While the event’s activities are over, you can still check out the light displays until Jan. 6. Also please make sure to Save the Date for next year – it’s definitely on our short list for years to come. You’ll be able to experience the Living Nativity, visit with Santa and take a beautiful shot for your own Christmas cards. Each year more than 100,000 cars drive by the network’s international headquarters everyday, and by adding new additions like Christmas Town and pictures with Santa, hopefully more people in the community will come and enjoy the holiday fun as they spend quality time with family and friends this Christmas season.

Santa

Daystar

Daystar - nativity

About Daystar Television Network

Daystar Television Network is an award winning, faith-based network dedicated to spreading the Gospel 24 hours a day, seven days a week – all around the globe, through all media formats possible. The nonprofit reaches more than 109 million households in the United States and over 4.4 billion people worldwide. Daystar is the fastest growing faith-based television network in the world. For more information, visit daystar.com.

Daystar

Daystar Christmas

Holiday Lights Display & Attractions
November 28 – January 5
6 pm – midnight

Scratch Café
December 6-14 / Fridays & Saturdays
December 16-21 / Every Day
6 pm – 10 pm

Photos with Santa
December 13-14 & 18-21
6 pm – 8 pm

Christmas Story
December 20
7 pm

More information on the DaystarChristmas website. 

Make Ahead Holiday Brunch Ideas

December 20, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Make Christmas memorable and don’t miss it making brunch when you can do it before! Here are our Make Ahead Holiday Brunch Ideas!

I love the feeling of waking up on Christmas Day with your loved ones and enjoying the fun of opening gifts in your PJs.

While you want the morning to be memorable, no one wants to get stuck in the kitchen creating the perfect Christmas breakfast.

So here’s a few tried and true make-ahead recipes I shared on Good Morning Texas that will make your any holiday morning easy, memorable and mouth-watering.

Make Ahead Holiday Brunch Ideas

Make Ahead Christmas Morning Casserole

Mini Spinach Quiches

Junior League of Arlington’s The Night Before Christmas Coffee Cake

Easy Mocha Punch

For more information about the Junior League of Arlington’s Holiday Magic, visit http://www.jlarlington.org. 


Thank You for Everything Bagel {Printable}

December 14, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Looking for a quick way to say Thank You at work or a group or organization? Show your appreciation with this Thanks for Everything Bagel Printable + bagels for everyone.

Thanks to Einstein Bros. for this bringing us together + this sponsored post.

You should always be in the spirit of saying “thank you,” but the holidays are prime time for not just saying “I appreciate you,” but making a grand gesture to show it, too. 

Einstein-Bagels (2 of 14)


Unfortunately with so much other stuff to do during the holidays, you think about a lot of good things to do for good people but you just can’t get to it.    You think, “maybe next time,” of course that’s after another year rolls by. 

But it doesn’t have to be a big soiree or big extravagant gifts to get everyone together and to say thanks.   

At my husband’s company, employee appreciation goes a long way but there’s not a lot of time to get the team together. 

But one thing is definite that will make any office happy: free food. 🙂 

So off to Einstein Bros. Bagels I went. Great for bringing friends, family and even colleagues together, Einstein Bros. Bagels offers a variety of options including a Baker’s Dozen Box (13 Bagels with 2 Shmears) and a Half Dozen Box (6 Bagels with 1 Shmear)! 

How can you go wrong with these bagels choices: 

  • Asiago
  • Blueberry
  • Chocolate Chip
  • Cinnamon Raisin
  • Cinnamon Sugar
  • Cranberry
  • Egg
  • Everything
  • French Toast
  • Garlic
  • 9-Grain
  • Honey Whole Wheat
  • Onion
  • Plain
  • Poppy Seed
  • Potato
  • Pretzel
  • Pumpernickel
  • Pumpkin (Seasonal)
  • Sesame Seed
  • Apple Cinnamon
  • Cheddar Jalapeno
  • Cheesy Hash Brown
  • Green Chile
  • Power Protein 
  • Pumpkin Walnut Crunch 
  • Six Cheese
  • Snickerdoodle
  • Spinach Florentine

And Super Smears like:

  • Plain
  • Onion & Chive
  • Smoked Salmon
  • Blueberry
  • Honey Almond 
  • Strawberry
  • Garden Veggie
  • Garlic & Herb
  • Jalapeño Salsa
  • Reduced Fat Plain
  • Maple

The bagels, along with this quick 5 x 7 printable “Thanks for Everything You Do” is a super easy way to show your appreciation even your team only has a few minutes to come together in the break room. Whether it’s Christmas, Labor Day, or Wednesday, you’ll definitely make an impression without having to much at all. 

And if you can’t resist snacking before you get your Einstein Bros. to the office, snag your own with this $2 off coupon. (Personally it’s the egg sandwiches that make my mouth water.) Buy remember this coupon expires 12/31/17.

Einstein_Bros_Bagels_2_Dollars_Off_Coupon_v1

Print off yours by clicking below in two different versions and receive a PDF. 

PDF / JPG

PDF / JPG

 

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A 🌹 for a rose! Can’t get over this gorgeous A 🌹 for a rose!

Can’t get over this gorgeous arrangement from @sofortworthit! Now this serves as a reminder of how happy this delivery made me! 

Surround yourself with people who make you feel good and you’ll always do better! ♥️
My little cheerleader took to the field tonight at My little cheerleader took to the field tonight at Boswell v Trinity Trojan Football! Ts Up! 📣
But I can see us lost in the memory August slipped But I can see us lost in the memory August slipped away into a moment in time…almost.

🍹 Swift n ‘Swigs @arlingtonmuseum 

#taylorswift #august #arlingtontx #dfw #dallas
Back to School doesn’t mean summer’s over YET! Back to School doesn’t mean summer’s over YET! 

You still have time to head to the PGA Frisco for Family Night Summer Movie Series for all the fun in one spot with outdoor on the big screen starting at dark (8 pm.) 

🍿August 18 - Parent Trap
🍿August 25 - Secret Life of Pets

Even if you aren’t a golfer, there’s not of fun for everyone including: 
⛳️ Putting green called the Dance Floor for just $5 (they have the putters and you get to take home your ball!) 
🎯Playing games at the Lounge by TopGolf and TopGolf Swing Suite technology
🍕Tons of food (and drinks🍷) 
🍦Don’t miss Margaret’s Cones & Cups for the best ice cream (and people!) 

And don’t miss: 
⛳️ Omni PGA Frisco Resort - In addition to premiere golf, the resort includes one pools, spas or one of resort’s restaurants.
⛳️ The Swing - Gil Hanse and Beau Welling designed this lighted, 10-hole, par-3 course with holes ranging from 45 to 100 yards.
⛳️ Ice House - Just for the adults, head out to this beer garden with six bays views overlooking The Swing.
⛳️ PGA Coaching Center - The 12K sq. ft. PGA Coaching Center combines coaching, club fitting, and fitness elements for all ages and skill levels.

Get the deets: https://pgafrisco.com/events

#PGADistrict #OmniPGAFrisco #FriscoTX #VisitTexas #Texas #DFW #PGA #Texastodo #Texastodo #visitfrisco #texastravel #texasblogger #Mamachallenge #FamilyNightOut
The best worst kept secret in DFW is McKinney, Tex The best worst kept secret in DFW is McKinney, Texas. 🤫

Recently featured on Good Morning America, this “suburb” is like all the stuff you want in a small town and all the stuff you still need in a big town - and SO. MUCH. MORE. When a meetup of friends gave me a chance to experience the downtown McKinney Square on a Saturday morning, I’ve spent every weekend since trying to find a reason to go back. 

A few of my favorites included: 
📍 Farmers Market at Chestnut Square Heritage Village (@chestnutsquaremckinney)
📍 Local Yocal BBQ (@localyocalfarmtomarket)
📍 Red Zepplin Records (@redzeppelinrecords)
📍 My Favorite Room (@myfavoriteroombykbmdesigns)
📍 Boho Moonchild (@bohomoonchildjewelry)
📍 Homeology (@homeology_interiors)
📍 The Yard (@theyardmckinneytx)
AND SO MANY MORE I HAVEN’T VISITED!

With so much to offer from a huge farmers market, local art, cool spots to eat and drink and so many unique spots to shop, I was already creating my itinerary for “next time” before I left. (So I am open to recommendations for places to stay if you have them!) 

Thank you, @VisitMcKinneyTX & @downtownmckinney for inviting me. 

#TheMcKinneyExperience #McKinneyTexas #McKinney #DFW #SmallTownTexas #Texas #DallasTX #DallasInfluencer #VisitTexas #Texastodo #visitmckinney #texastravel #texasblogger
It’s Christmas in July! Sharing some of my favo It’s Christmas in July!

Sharing some of my favorite @amazonprime Day Deals on @wfaagmt! 

Make sure to head to my highlights for the links to these deals.

…Don’t forget to sign up for @rakuten and @Honey to make sure you’re getting the best price (and where you can get it for less!)

Comment SHOP and we will send you links to all these deals!

#mamachallenge #primeday #amazon #dallas #autumnreo #primedaydeals #ltkxprimeday
Today the big day! Whether you’re on a long ho Today the big day! 

Whether you’re on a long holiday or you’re just squeezing in today, here are a couple of quick ideas to get you in the spirit of Independence Day as (featured on @wfaagmt!

These are so easy you don’t need a recipe - but if you do send us a DM and I can help you out!)

#july4th #redwhiteandblue #mamachallenge #dfw #dallas #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger #goodmorningtexas #abc
I’m be waited my whole life for this Oscar…⭐ I’m be waited my whole life for this Oscar…⭐️ 

Oscar party that is! We created an Academy Award-worthy party plan anyone can host - including a menu you don’t even really need to cook and games! 

🌟 Get the free download #ontheblog for #Oscar Bingo! 

📺 Get the link to the @wfaagmt segment in Stories. 

#oscars #academyawards2023
IYKYK. #TacoTuesday And for you #keto fans, you b IYKYK. #TacoTuesday

And for you #keto fans, you better write this one down!

I’ve never heard of @jimboystacos (even though it’s been around since the 50s), but I’m so glad I have now. Errands brought me to the drive-thru at its one of 2 Texas location in #FortWorth. 

Three cars in line must mean it’s good, so I rolled up and low and behold they have #keto taco - chicken, pick, avocado, cheese and even a southwest sauce - all wrapped up with a lettuce leaf! While it wasn’t the prettiest taco it definitely was one of my faves! And since I was there, I grabbed a few others for the family to try. So. Freaking. Good.

I would say I have a new favorite especially with all its fresh ingredients, but the Keto Taco is only here until March 15. So get yours while you can 🌮 

Thanks, Jimboy for nudging me in the right direction for tacos!

#jimboytacos #dallasblogger #dfweats #fwfood #dallasinfluencers #dfwinfluencer #mamachallenge #dfwfoodie #fwfoodie
So much to love! ❤️ There’s so much I coul So much to love! ❤️ 

There’s so much I could say that I love on this special day, but at the top of the list is my son who first made me a mama! While it is Valentine’s Day, for me February is also always a reminder that it is congenital heart defect awareness month, a condition that one and 100 children are diagnosed with every year, including my son when he was born. Thankfully we had access to care that saved his life. But only 1 in 10 kids has access to healthcare to help them. 
So any time I can support CHD research and awareness, we want to give back. I am excited the @dallasjackals (actually located in #ArlingtonTx) are donating $5 dollars to @childrensheartlink with every $20 purchased! 

Get link in my stories for this special deal!

#chd #chdawareness #childrensheartlink #dallasjackals #heartbabies #chdwarrior❤️
Did you hear there are actions to make Christmas t Did you hear there are actions to make Christmas to last for the entire winter season?

I can’t believe we’re in the homestretch and there are so many things I haven’t had a chance to see and do. However, one we don’t miss is #DaystarChristmas by @daystar.

Perfectly situated near @dfwairport in HEB, this free event is open nightly 6 pm - 11 pm. While Santa has already returned to the North Pole, it’s a beautiful self-paced walkthrough where you experience:
🌟 2 million lights
🌟 Light Maze
🌟 Life-size Manager
🌟 Photo Backdrops galore

The ideal spot for photos, catching up and then heading to dinner nearby like @gladeparkstexas. 

Tip: Go later for less crowds! Bring your jacket and gloves. Be patient and enjoy the time together. 

#eulesstx #bedfordtx #viridiandfw #dfw #dallasinfluencer #dfwholiday #dallas #fortworth #mamachallenge
Go wild this holiday at the Dallas Zoo Lights pres Go wild this holiday at the Dallas Zoo Lights presented by Reliant at the @DallasZoo! 🦒 

A new Christmas activity for us to experience, this event makes the zoo sparkle with millions of lights as you walk through installations, s’mores around the fire, fun activities for the kids, light show and and you can’t miss Santa (the kids are still talking about their visit with him!)

💡 Get your tickets in advance to reserve your cup of cheer (with cocoa and treats in your souvenir cup) ready for you when you arrive! 

📍 Dallas Zoo Lights - Dallas Zoo
Now - Jan. 1, 2023
Get your tickets online at DallasZoo.com

#DallasZooLights
New York may have the Rockefeller tree, but Dallas New York may have the Rockefeller tree, but Dallas has the tree at Galleria Dallas! 🌲 

Taking a photo with the tree or watching it light up with Missile Toes skating around it, is Bucket List Christmas in DFW.

However this year they’ve turned it up even more with SNOW ❄️! At special times throughout the day, you can experience snow falling for a White Christmas moment!

Snowfall in the Alley:
Now - December 24
Monday - Thursday: 5pm and 7pm
Friday - Saturday: 2pm, 5pm and 7pm
Sunday: 2pm and 5pm

And don’t miss Santa! But you’ll take a journey to see him through @snowdaypop! Travel via train and there enjoy holiday with innovative immersive experience and best of all they take the 
Snowday (Level 1, near Banana Republic) 
Now-January 8
(Reservations recommended)

You still have time to experience the Grand Holiday Ice Show today! 

And make Illumination Celebration a part of your holiday with Illumination Celebration!
Meet at the nation’s tallest indoor Christmas tree for a special music and light show. 

November 25 - December 24
12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm

Don’t miss @GalleriaDallas for the Holidays this season! 

#GalleriaDallas #DFW #Mamachallenge #GalleriaHoliday #dallas #DTX
🎪 DFW Holiday 2022 Bucket List: ‘Twas the Nig 🎪 DFW Holiday 2022 Bucket List: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Cirque Du Soleil! 🎪

Looking for something different for your holiday fun? Then this is the one. It will make everybody and every age smile and get in the holiday mood (even the teens!) 

Flips, jumps, lights, audience interaction, and Santa Claus! It's a beautiful bridge of a classic done in a whole new interactive way! 

🎪 Get your tickets now (try for section 200!) Now - Dec. 11, 2022!

🎪 Snacks + drinks are available, but you should eat dinner before or be ready for a late dinner! 

🎪 Attire is business casual, but make it fun for a festive, fun night out! 

🎪 Pair it with a trip to @Prairie Lights for 
the ultimate fun in #GrandPrairie! 

#CirqueTwas #twasthenightbeforechristmas #hosted #dfw #mamachallenge #visitdallas #visitgrandprairie #DFWInfluencer #DFWHoliday #DallasBlogger
Sums up this month about right. October has defi Sums up this month about right. 

October has definitely flown by and I couldn’t believe how many of my favorite experiences we didn’t get to attend, but an afternoon at @sixflagsovertexas took care of a lot of my fall bucket list! Halloween fun, seeing the leaves start to change, one of the best strudels + a true Oktoberfest bier, and picture moments galore - we’re all checked off! 

With three festivals - including Fright Fest, Boo Fest and a new Oktoberfest Food Festival, the whole family had a great day at @sixflagsovertexas. And paired with a flash pass and an All day cup (thank you, Six Flags) you can’t go wrong enjoying Texas fall in #DFW.

🤩 Plus make sure to stop and read the gravestones- they name all the rides that have gone out of rotation. 

#sixflags #sixflagsmemories #arlingtontx #aworldofwonderful #dfw #dfwevents #dallasblogger
Just in time for the 70th Birthday of #BigTex, we Just in time for the 70th Birthday of #BigTex, we celebrated with a family trip to the @statefairoftx. 

There’s always so much to see and do, but for us it’s the FOOD! So many people asked us what’s the best thing thing to eat, so here’s our short list of #musteats at the State Fair of Texas!

✔️Every good Texan knows your first stop (and also your last) is @fletcherscornydogs. But did you know there’s more than the original to try? Go for the Dallas Hot Bird Dog dippes in spicy batter, deep-fried, split open and then piled high max and cheese, @cholulahotsauce and crispy jalapeños. #Daymade and you just started!

✔️ Pay homage to the to who @texasmonthly calls the “high priest of frying, @chef_abel, and order up his newest creation, the Doh-Muf: part fluffy donut, part muffin and all goodness with Bavarian cream and coated in banana nut muffin batter. Want to up the ante? Then while you’re there, snag the fried PBJ. (Ask for the Priscilla, just like the King.)

✔️ Don’t fly off too far…get another new dish - the Texas Ranch Hog Wings from @nevinsconcessions. Grab lots of napkins and The Fried Charcuterie Board from this dynamic duo.

✔️ I hope you’re not full because we aren’t finished yet - it’s time to get your greens on from @chefcassy. Deep fried collard greens of course served with a honey-glazed chicken wing! 🐔 

✔️ Quite possibly the fastest thing we ate - was the Ultimate Brookie Monster from @smokeyjohnsbbq. It may not be pretty, but with chocolate chip cookie + brownie, @oreo, marshmallow, all deep fried and served with @bluebellicecream, cheesecake crumbles and strawberry sauce…it’s the ultimate dessert (because everything is in it!)

✔️ Like a corn dog, no trip to the fair is complete without a funnel cake from @ferniesfunnelcakes. It’s the perfect nibble as you people watch your way through the fair (and burn off a few calories before you eat again.)

✔️ So you done yet? You might be for now, so make sure to grab your @stifflersmomscookiefactory to go and wash it down with a dirty soda (ask and they’ll show you!)

HBD, #BigTex - we enjoyed it!

🎡 🌮 🌯🍗🍩

#Texas #statefairoftexas #statefair #deepfrieddynasty #dfw #dallas #statefairfood
If only every #tacotuesday was like this. 🌮 I If only every #tacotuesday was like this. 🌮 

I can’t help but take up on a good challenge, so when @visit_arlington asked what was my vote favorite taco during their #SavetheTacos campaign, I couldn’t let them down. ✔️ 

With 12 restaurants ready to face off for the title of “Arlington’s Favorite Taco,” anyone can vote and then win prizes for making their vote. 

Wanna play? You have 12 tacos and 10 days to make your 🗳.

My favorite? I’ll never tell, but I sure did have a good time doing the research.

This is what #TacoTuesday was made for.

#ArlingtonTexas #ArlingtonTx #aworldofwonderful #arlington #dfw #tacos #taco #dallasblogger #dfwinfluencer
BBQ leftovers? 

If you happen to have any, what’s your favorite way to put them to work in the kitchen?

I’m talking ways to use that sausage, brisket or smoked chicken from July 4th on @wfaagmtthis!
🇺🇸 Green Sauce for Brisket Breakfast Tacos
🇺🇸 Smoked Chicken Salad
🇺🇸 One-Pan Sausage, Potato and Green Bean Dinner

#july4 #independenceday #gmt #goodmorningtexas #bbq #brisket #dallas #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger
When mom is away, the minions will play. 👀 I w When mom is away, the minions will play. 👀

I was away for work and a special box from @universalpictures @theslyfoxclub showed up! 

My miniboss (and her accomplice) busted it open and made their own unboxing video to send to mom (check my Instastories). 

As much fun as they had making the unboxing video, we had to go see @Minions The Rise of Gru opening night. We both loved it (and the soundtrack is winning especially when your kiddo sings The Rolling Stones on the way home!)

➡️ See #Minions #TheRiseOfGru only in theaters TODAY! 

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

#minions #TheRiseofGru #Ad
DFW: It’s Good Friday - so do something good! S DFW: It’s Good Friday - so do something good!

Sign up for the The Heroes for Children 5K & Family Fun Run happening tomorrow, April 23 at Hall Park in #FriscoTx!

This is family-friendly race and party to raise awareness and funds for families affected by pediatric cancer in Texas presented by @heroesforchildren! This Dallas-based org advocates for and provides financial and social assistance to families with children battling cancer throughout Texas. 

🥇 5K runners receive an event T-shirt and the first 300 finishers receive a special Heroes for Gold Ribbon medal. 

Also enjoy:
🏃‍♀️ family fun zone
🏃‍♂️ community sponsored events
🏃‍♀️ Gold Go Gold Art exhibit
 
🏃‍♀️ Register now: https://www.heroesforchildren.org/5k-funrun-frisco and save $5 with promo code HEROESRUN5!

###
#dfw #heroesforchildren #run #easter #dallas #frisco #pediatriccancer
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