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!

Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW

November 8, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 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 Dallas, Arlington to Plano, Grand Prairie to Grapevine (and of course everything in between), there are plenty of great ones to choose from every day of the week. However, there are a few events that you need to have on your must-do, must-go, must-see list for the holidays in 2020! (And make sure to look as some of these have giveaways too!)

1. Holiday at the Arboretum

Nov. 7 – Dec. 31, 2020

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.

2. Lone Star Christmas

Nov. 9 – Jan. 3, 2021

Grapevine / Gaylord Texan Hotel and Convention Center

Prices: Rates range based on activities.

Walk-thru the most iconic scenes from your favorite Christmas movies in our all-new, multi-sensory experience. Interact and capture moments with the characters, sets and moments you know-and-love, with over 13 fully immersive scenes complete with replicas of film props, audio clips, and more. Featuring THE POLAR EXPRESS™, A CHRISTMAS STORY™, ELF™, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION™, and THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS™. Get the details.

3. Radiance A Holiday Lights Spectacular

Nov. 11 – Jan. 3, 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.

(Photo credit Radiance)

4. The Trains at Northpark (GIVEAWAY)

Nov. 14 – Jan. 3, 2021

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 33 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.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

5. SNOWDAY Dallas

Nov. 20 – Jan. 3, 2021

Dallas / Galleria Dallas

Prices: Children under 3 free / Kids ages 4 – 12 $8 / Adults $22

Self-described as a “holiday dipped and peppermint flipped immersive experience,” SnowDay is back for the 2nd year to Big D. Guests will navigate their way through an imaginative wonderland of festive photo ops, enchanted rooms, interactive spaces, and nostalgic moments with photo booths integrated throughout the exhibit. Get the details.

(Photo credit SNOWDAY)

8. Luminova Holidays

Nov. 20 – Jan. 3, 2021

Arlington / Globe Life Field

Prices: $19 for youth / $29 for adults

Surrounded by millions of dazzling lights, Luminova will brighten up your holidays! Visit with jolly ol’ Saint Nick, glide on a 10,000 sq. ft outdoor ice-skating pond, snap great pictures with family and friends around our larger-than-life light displays, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy yummy treats. With 270,000 sq. ft. of immersive indoor and outdoor entertainment at the all-new Globe Life Field, there is something to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Get the details.

ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO VIP NIGHT AT LUMINOVA HERE

(photo credit Luminova)

9. Dallas Zoo Lights

Nov. 20 – Jan. 3, 2021

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 )

10. Holiday in the Park

Nov. 21-Jan. 3, 2021

Arlington / Six Flags Over Texas

Tickets 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 a snow hill, 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.

11. GM Financial Parade of Lights

Nov. 22

Fort Worth / Sundance Square

Prices: Free Broadcast

It’s typically a day filled with exciting things to do throughout Downtown, from taking care of your holiday shopping to dining out in some of the finest restaurants in Fort Worth, all while enjoying the holiday spirit of the country’s top holiday parade; however, this year’s parade will be different, and reimagined! We’ll be bringing you the entire parade broadcast from the Fort Worth Convention Center, on local network television and online, ONLY.

Get the details.

(Photo credit GM Financial Fort Worth Parade of Lights)

12. Prairie Lights

Nov. 26 – Dec. 27, 2020 Thanksgiving – New Year’s Eve (hours vary)

Grand Prairie / Joe Pool Lake

Prices start at $30 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. The Holiday Village is unavailable this year. Get the details.

13. Gift of Lights

Nov. 26 – Jan. 6, 2021

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.

14. Texas Christkindl Market ONLINE

Nov. 27 – Dec. 23, 2020

Arlington / Social Media

Prices: Free

It’s a German Christmas at the Texas Christkindl Market and even though there will not be a physical location this year, please enjoy the website and social media channels. You’ll discover holiday cheer, decorations, recipes, and one-of-a-kind finds and gifts from your favorite vendors through our vendor listings. You’ll see how to create German holiday treats with authentic recipes and video demonstrations. Live performances from local choirs and dancers will be broadcast through our social media channels, and children (and adults alike) will get surprise messages from St. Nick throughout the duration of the Market. Get the details.

15. Vitruvian Lights

Nov. 27 – Jan. 1, 2021

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. Walk through 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.

(Photo credit: Visit Addison Facebook)

16. Christmas at the Anatole

Nov. 28 – Dec. 23, 2020

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.

17. Dallas Holiday Parade

Dec. 5

Dallas / Downtown

Prices: Free

COMING SOON

(photo credit Holiday Dallas Parade)

18. Daystar Christmas

Dec. 6 – Dec. 21, 2020

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’s 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.

19. Arlington Holiday Lights Parade

December 12, 2020

Arlington / Downtown

Free

COMING SOON (We hope!)

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

Make 2020 a Little Brighter with Luminova Holidays

November 6, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 8 Comments

Looking for a way to make the holidays shine a little brighter? The new Luminova Holidays in Arlington at Globe Life Field is ready to light up 2020! Read on for how you can win tickets.

Thank you to Luminova Holidays for this special giveaway and sponsored post.

Ready to fast-forward to the holidays this year? Yep, us too and a new month-long plus event at Globe Life Park in Arlington is ready to make 2020 shine a little brighter. Called “Luminova Holidays”, this safe, immersive experience says it’s guaranteed to be the bright spot of the holidays for North Texas, Nov. 20 – Jan. 3, 2021.

Photo Credit: Luminova Holidays

If getting to finally visit Globe Life Field wasn’t enough fun for you, perhaps the 300,000 sq ft of outdoor and spacious
indoor area transformed into a holiday wonderland will. While we haven’t had a chance to peak (YET – those details are coming soon), there’s a lot to look forward to experiencing at Luminova including:

2.7 million twinkling lights
10,000 square foot outdoor rink
train rides for the kids
interactive activities
Meet and Greet with Santa
Sprawling light trail
Photo opportunities with larger-than-life light displays

Safe Holiday Fun at Luminova

In addition to following the CDC, Texas Department of State Health Services and guidelines, Luminova Holidays is working closely with Tarrant County, the City of Arlington and the Texas Rangers to ensure the holiday celebration meets all guidelines and safety protocols recommended. Per Tarrant County orders, masks are required for ages of 10. In addition, sanitizing stations will be set up throughout the event with frequent disinfecting during the event operating hours and disinfectant sprayers will be used pre and post event to fully deep clean every day. In addition to the cleaning, indoor areas are limiting capacity per event each night to allow for ample social distancing. The light path experience will be in a one-way directional path, where everyone can space out accordingly as they wander the dazzling light trail.

Photo Credit: Luminova Holidays

Luminova Details

At $14.99 to start, Luminova is working to create an affordable experience for everyone (but we have even more with a special code below.) If you’re headed with the whole fam, a family pack, which includes two adults and up to three kids, starts at $59.99. or go big with a luxury suite for the ultimate VIP experience for 10-40 people is also available.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR MAMACHALLENGE READERS

SAVE 15% with the code SHINE. Discount applicable to adults, kids, seniors, family pack, and suite ticket packages. Valid Nov 20 – Dec 17.

For tickets and a full list of available dates, visit the Luminova website for all details.

Make Luminova Holidays your plan for holiday get-togethers this year. It’s where the most wonderful time of the year is safely fun for all ages.

Photo Credit: Luminova Holidays

Luminova Holidays
November 20, 2020 – January 3, 2021
Globe Life Field
734 Stadium Drive
Arlington, Texas 76011

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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.)

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.

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.)

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:

No one is thinking why you didn’t coordinate your wrapping paper under the tree once they open the gift.
There is no mom award given at the end of the holidays for making it the best Christmas ever.
If you don’t make it to every Christmas event on the list, no one is going to know.
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.
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.

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!

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

PDF / JPG

The Guys Guide to the Best Gifts for Guys

December 13, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 110 Comments

Want to know the secret of getting the right gift for the guy in your life? ASK HIM. So for this holiday gift guide, we solve this #mamachallenge for The Guy’s Guide to the Best Gifts for Guys courtesy of my guy, my husband.

Thanks to Academy Sports + Outdoors for making Christmas easy with one-stop affordable shopping and this sponsored post.

Every year around this time the inevitable question always arises: What do you want for Christmas?

It’s a thoughtful question because it means, “I want to give you a gift to show you love and appreciation and I want you to get something you want.”

But even worse some people don’t even both to ask and just assume they know what you want. That’s how I’ve ended up with a lot of pajamas and pullovers…and I have an ample supply.

Funny enough, most men, like myself, are not hard to please and are easy when it comes to Christmas shopping.

Want to know the secret?

Go to Academy Sports + Outdoors.
Put something in the basket.
Go Home, Wrap it (or not, we don’t care.)
Enjoy seeing his face when he opens it.

For me this place takes care of all my favorite things to do and interests and the fact that’s it’s always affordable with low prices makes it easy to give and gift.

The way my wife clicks on everything on Pinterest is how I feel about Academy. I can walk around the store and find all kinds of gifts ranging from hunting, camping, working out, cooking, fishing…whatever!. And if your man is anything like me, they are probably the same way, and you took the work out of it and now put a present under the tree.

But if you need us to narrow it down a little bit, here’s our Guide to the Best Gifts for Your Guy at Academy Sports + Outdoors.

The Guys Guide to the Best Gifts for Guys

Masterbuilt MES 130S 30 in Digital Electric Smoker with Window

If Santa wanted to leave me something under the tree, this is it. The Masterbuilt MES 130S 30 in Digital Electric Smoker with Window makes it easy to do some cooking, actually a lot of cooking. With an electric ignition and time, you can whip up 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs or 4 pork butts all at one time. And it’s on wheels so it won’t be hard for Santa to roll this one in. This one is a win-win.

LEM Electric Meat Grinder

Every year I harvest quite a bit of meat while out hunting. One of the best and most popular ways to put deer and hog on the table is to grind it up and then freeze it to eat throughout the year.. This is step one to making chili, sausage, and burgers. I’ve been trying to perfect the perfect sausage recipe for several years while working from an attachment on my blender. Unfortunately, it takes hours to get through 10 lbs of sausage and there really aren’t a lot of options for changing up how you want the meat ground up, i.e. course for chili and super fine to crank out some homemade bologna.

With the LEM Electric Grinder you have a dedicated tool to get the job done. It comes with a couple of grinding plates and sausage stuffing tool right out of the box. I can look forward to a much more enjoyable experience processing the game I’ve taken when using the right tool for the job from a great brand.

Outdoor Gourmet Propane Fish Fry Cart Set

To me, when I think of holiday traditions I’d like to start, I’ve always thought the “Fried Fourth” has the double appeal of patriotic alliteration combined with the sweet siren’s call of a bubbling caldron of grease. Fried fish, calf fries, dove, shrimp, frog legs, steak fingers, chicken strips, and mounds and mounds of French fries. Everybody sits around all days getting stuffed on an assortment of fried foods just in time to watch a majestic fireworks show. It brings a tear to my eye and I get a little choked up dreaming about the “Fried Forth.”

But if I’m going to do that much frying, I need a rig that can handle some volume. The Outdoor Gourmet Propane Fish Fry Cart Set can do just that. Two burners, two pots, with three baskets can pump out a lot of golden fried goodness. Hopefully this is the year we can bring the “Fried Forth” to America’s heartland.

Wildgame Innovations Moonshine Hog and Varmint Feeder Light

One thing most any land owner can agree on is this, wild pigs are not your friends. They tear up everything they can and multiply about as fast as anything on earth. These are just some of the reasons to hunt pigs year-round. Not to mention pigs can be some pretty good eating too. One of the most efficient ways to manage these throngs of pork is to set them on a feeder and then light em up.

The Wildgame Innovations Moonshine Hog and Varmint Feeder Light can be set to activate on motion and produces a bright blue light while operating off of a 6 volt battery. Put this up on or around your feeder at night and then just wait for a passel of hogs to show up, then, you and your buddies can get to harvesting.

Do-All Outdoors Double Trap

Next on the list is the Do-All Outdoors Double Trap because one of my favorite activities is shooting clays. Shooting clay pigeons is a great way to stay tuned when bird season comes around and it’s great fun all by itself. For example, when the birds aren’t flying, it’s always nice to have a standby where everyone can get on the line and test their skill for a little game of Wolf Chase.

In addition, there’s no better way to start getting your kids used to hunt that to get them out in the country and start training. Spend some quality time as a family while learning basic hunting and shooting safety and technique. I’m already looking forward to hearing my son yell, “Pull!”

Magellan Outdoors Men’s Glacier Shield Jacket

Our family holiday tradition is going skiing. I love to ski and we try to go somewhere new every year. While it doesn’t often get real cold in Dallas, it is when we head to Colorado. The Magellan Outdoors Men’s Glacier Shield Jacket does you a solid for all the different weather conditions that are thrown are way. And this coat comes with a storage bag so you can pack it away when not in use.

YETI Roadie 20 Cooler

Repeat this: You can’t go wrong with a YETI. Especially when it’s the convenient YETI Roadie 20 Cooler. Whether he hunts, fishes, tailgates, boats, whatever…he’s got a reason for this convenient sized cooler that keeps everything cold for days (tested a million times over!) And for a limited time Academy Sports + Outdoors is giving a free $75 Academy Gift Card with the purchase of any YETI Hard-Sided Cooler.

Under Armour Men’s UA Storm Vortex Short

Now that winter has set in and holiday season is in full swing, it’s never too early to start thinking about that beach bod. Maybe I could say that with a straight face when I was younger, but as the years come on it’s less about looking great and more about staying healthy. Part of staying healthy is getting in regular workouts and when you’re working out you want to be comfortable. Under Armour has some incredibly comfortable clothes that will help you worry less and perform better.

This Under Armour Men’s UA Storm Vortex Short is vented to keep you cool and water resistant to keep you dry. They also have a pocket built in to keep the cell phone handy while cranking out the tunes to keep you moving. Under Armour is a great brand and they continue to hit the mark with these shorts.

FREE SHIPPING BANNER (AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME)

Nike Men’s Run Swift Running Shoes

If you’ve got the shorts on to work out, you’ve got to have something on your feet as well. When it comes to athletic footwear, Nike is the iconic brand that’s been around longer than I have and knows more about athletic footwear than anyone around. I’ve also been with Nike long enough to know what I like and these Nike Run Swift Running Shoes. These shoes are great on the pavement, the treadmill, or the gym floor. The look of the shoe is simple, lightweight and breathable and none too flashy.

Body Champ VKR Power Tower

I’ve been trying to finish a workout program for years now. It’s a pretty strenuous and demanding three-month program working out 6 days a week, which has a lot to do with why I’ve never finished. With the Body Champ VKR Power Tower you can not only do pull ups and chin ups, but can also do dips and leg raises. In addition, you don’t have to wonder if this thing is going to fall and send me crashing to the ground. This tower would be one more tool available to me to keep my “temple” in working order for a long time to come.

Huffy Men’s Alpine 26″ 18-Speed Mountain Bike

This Huffy Men’s Alpine 26″ 18-Speed Mountain Bike is the gift that keeps on giving. Our family has some land out in the country with some elevation to it and it’s perfect for an off the beaten path mountain bike. And riding this will definitely help get some great exercise while going on adventures with and without the family.

The second use is a little more clandestine. Every morning when I set out to go hunting I hop on the ATV and head down to the stand. I know you can hear that things for miles around. Now if I hope on my Huffy, I can peddle right by the stand and be as quiet as a mouse. When you only get to hunt a few weekends out of the season, you want to take advantage of every edge you have.

Mosaic 29 in Fuego Grande Fire Pit

You can never go wrong with a gift that the entire family can enjoy together. I can see us now, all sitting around the fire grilling steaks with potatoes and onions wrapped in foil sitting right in the middle of the Mosaic 29 in Fuego Grande Fire Pit. We’ll finish up the evening with a bunch of kids roasting marshmallows on sticks getting ready for s’mores. If you’re going to be outside with a group of folks you’ll want to take care of him. We can make all that happen with the Mosaic 29 in Fuego Grande Fire Pit. It’s got everything you need. It’ll help you cook up a mess of food and stay warm at the same time. That’s how I like family time well and like this too.

Happy Holidays to you from us!

Rum and Coke Cake Balls

December 5, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

Forget the fruitcake, these rum and coke cake balls are the way to ring in the season. This easy recipe can be made for giving (or keeping) with (and without) the spirits, but all the festive flavor.

This post is being sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

When I was growing up there were several dishes you knew to expect for the holidays.

Grammer’s stuffing
Granny’s pecan pie
Aunt Debbie’s corn casserole
Grandpa’s stash of chocolate candy in the special box at the top of his closet he tried to “hide”
And a huge box of Coca-Cola® to stay stocked all season long

There would also be lots of goodies like divinity, fudge, carefully decorated Christmas sugar cookies, etc. from the neighbors and friends that would get dropped by the house and remain on display for eating throughout the season.

And by no means did we ever ever, ever go without.

However, there was never fruit cake. Not once that I can remember. It was always that thing that they talked about as the “worst thing ever” – and for some reasons I wanted so bad to know what it was. But what we did have was the rum cake.

When you would pull off the cloche on the rum cake, the most amazing aroma would permeate every part of the room with a rich buttery, coconutty smell that would start at your nose and soon make its way to every part of your taste buds.

But I wasn’t allowed to eat it. That was for the adults. And since I wasn’t supposed to eat and my grandma seemed to love it so much, I didn’t understand why I wasn’t given the opportunity to enjoy something that was so good. It just didn’t seem right that I wouldn’t get to have some. So of course, being the me that I was, I was focused on getting a taste. And one day it happened. No one was looking and I went in for my bite. I still remember that taste. Hitting my tongue, it was better than what I could have imagined!

Later, when I got older, I would find out what that special something was. It was the same spirited concoction the adults would indulge in with their Coca-Cola®. As kids we would also be limited how many sodas we could have, but like that rum cake, it was something to savor, every drop of it from the moment you poured it over ice, until the last drop hit your mouth.

Now I’m the adult. And unfortunately many of those dishes aren’t around anymore just like the women that made them. But there are a few things we still do…but now with a twist.

There’s still chocolate…except now it’s stashed in MY closet.

There are lots of little delights already in the making…but now I’m the one that is making them for my friends and neighbors.

There’s always a stock-up on Coca-Cola® as part of my Sam’s Club run.

And while there’s still no fruit cake, there is rum cake…but with a twist.

Since rum cake and Coca-Cola® were limited as a kid I’ve retaliated with the ultimate Christmas recipe: Rum and Coca-Cola® Cake Balls! It’s like a rum cake and rum and Coca-Cola® in one little bite. But if you’re like me and now you’re the adult with a few kiddos running around, then you can still enjoy the rum and Coca-Cola® cake without any of the spirits by using the rum extract instead. (You can find it almost anywhere!) Just remember, that a little the Rum Extract goes a long way!)

These make the perfect gift for goodies for the holidays or as something to do as a family while you’re getting in the holiday spirit.

Nothing says the holidays better than Coca-Cola®!

Rum and Coca-Cola® Cake Balls

Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
Yield: 2 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Forget the fruitcake, these rum and Coca-Cola® cake balls are the way to ring in the season. This easy recipe can be made for giving (or keeping) with (and without) the spirits, but all the festive flavor.

Scale

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter, room temperature
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate (the darker the better!)
1 box Graham Cracker cookies (or approximate 400 g cookies)
3 tablespoons cocoa
1 tablespoon white sugar
⅓ cup Coca-Cola®+ 1 tablespoon
2 1/2 tablespoons Rum Extract + 2 teaspoons
450 grams dipping chocolate (There are several great versions to use, just make sure it hardens)

Optional for Topping

¼ cup walnuts, chopped
1 tablespoon Coca-Cola®
1 Tablespoon Spiced Rum or 1 teaspoon Rum Extract
2–4 tablespoon cocoa powder
Colored melting chocolate

Instructions

Melt chocolate and butter into microwave until smooth (normally 30 seconds.) Let cool. In a food processor, combine cookies, cocoa and sugar until fine (like sugar.)
Add chocolate to the cookie mix until mixed thoroughly. (Make sure to blend until it’s even.)
Add cola and rum extract until it created a ball of dough. Knead a few minutes until mixed and allow to sit for a few minutes.
When able to pick up, begin making 1-1 1/2 inch balls from the dough and place on
parchment or a Silpat mat.
Melt dipping chocolate in the microwave until ready to dip. Using a fork, quickly coat balls in chocolate and place back on paper/mat to dry.

Notes

Optional: If you’d like to add a topping, use cocoa powder as a simple finish or make them even more rum and Coca-Cola® flavor, combine cola and rum (or extra together) with nuts and allow to sit so liquid can be absorbed. Once a little dry, sprinkle nuts for a finishing touch. Otherwise, you can add another melted chocolate for a special holiday touch!

Sweepstakes Information

This holiday season, include Coca-Cola® as part of your tradition. Pick up Sprite® 4 pack 2 Liter, Diet Coke® 4 Pack 2 Liter, Coca-Cola® 35 pack cans, or Coca-Cola® 30 pack Mini Cans beverages from Sam’s Club, then upload your receipt for a chance to WIN a trip for two to Los Angeles featuring:

An exclusive red-carpet screening of The Greatest Showman, plus pre-show performance
Round trip air transportation for two (2)
Two (2) 20th Century Fox goodie bags
Three (3) nights’ luxury accommodations in a Hollywood hotel
VIP backstage tour of Fox Studios with lunch at the on-site restaurant
Full on-site assistance from a personal winner manager throughout the trip

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! Enter now: www.samsclub.com/coca-cola/

“Coca-Cola” is a registered trademark of The Coca-Cola Company.

Cheesy Pasta Pie

December 3, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

Give your holidays an Italian twist with this Cheesy Pasta Pie that’s a creative family favorite featuring rigatoni, marinara and all the cheese!

This post is sponsored by Barilla and Galbani Cheese, but the thoughts and opinions are my own.

If I had to choose only two foods to eat for the rest of my life, the first one would be pasta and the second one would be cheese.

And combine them together…you find perfection.

During the holidays, I can appreciate a turkey or a ham, but honestly, when it comes to a special occasion or a special day like Christmas, my taste buds call for Italian.

Thankfully, Italian food is some of the easiest to make and it can feed a huge family! No one gets upset either when you say we’re serving lasagne. NEVER.

And you can put all the veggies in and no one complains either. BECAUSE CHEESE.

So during the holidays we’ve started to go for a more Italian menu so it keeps us out of the kitchen and doing the stuff that really matters – like visiting with family, friends, and enjoying the time together.

But of course, during the holidays, you don’t just want something you can make and eat every day. You want something that makes an impression. Something that says, “this dish is so good and I am too.”

So with the help of a springform pan, you can use Barilla pasta and marinara to make a this very unique presentation on a baked ziti using rigatoni pasta. And like whipped cream on a pie, cover the top with Galbani fresh mozzarella for the ultimate cheesy bite! (This dish can be made vegetarian as well although I opted for a lean ground chicken.)

IBOTTA OFFER FEATURING WALMART

Cheesy Pasta Pie

Cheesy Pasta Pie

Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com

Print Recipe

Description

Give your holidays an Italian twist with this Cheesy Pasta Pie that’s a creative twist on a family favorite featuring rigatoni, marinara and all the cheese!

Scale

Ingredients

INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 pound ground chicken, turkey or other protein
1 16 ounce jar Barilla Marinara Sauce
1 pound Barilla Rigatoni Pasta
1 package Galbani Fresh Mozzarella, sliced
½ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a saute pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add ground protein and brown. Add ½ jar of marinara to pan.
While cooking, boil rigatoni until al dente (about 8-10 minutes.)
Drain pasta and add other ½ off of marinara to pasta and toss.
Spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Place on a large baking pan with parchment paper.
Arrange pasta vertically in the prepped pan. Pack the rigatoni tightly.
Spread the meat sauce on top of the pasta.
Lay sliced mozzarella across the top of the pie. Sprinkle parmesan cheese (optional.)
Bake the pasta pie in the oven for 375 degrees F for 15-20 (until melted.)
Place on serving plate, then remove springform ring and serve.