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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Makin’ a List, Checking it Twice: Hot Holiday Toy List 2017 {Giveaway}

November 29, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 165 Comments

Whether you’re giving or getting, when it comes to the holidays, it’s all about making the list! Here’s the mamachallenge’s Holiday Hot Toy List 2017! 

Thank you to so many of these sponsors for making this list possible! And to Good Morning Texas for featuring some of their favorites. 

And don’t forget to enter to win many of these hot toys below. 

Let’s start off by saying this time of year my kids really come in handy. 


Christmas Holiday Poster

Best Board Games

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…especially to find some monkeys that sound like they should be potatoes and hamsters to serve us burgers. (Don’t worry, we’ll explain.) 

I’m a huge fan of buying a board game for the kids each year. It’s like a stocking stuffer, but it’s also something for us to do together on Christmas and is helping to build their own library of games when they get older and have families. 

Shark Bite by Pressman 

This is a fun game for the littles and best of all, doesn’t need batteries! It’s like the Go Fishing game we used to play but sharks! It’s easy to get rolling quickly and easy to play! 

Soggy Doggy by Spin Master

Of course the kids will like it, Soggy Doggy is the game of getting wet by your Soggy Doggy while he takes a bath! Another game that’s perfect for all ages and doesn’t take forever to get the idea of how to play! 

Ship of Treasures by Pressman

I love this game because it was created by two 5th grade girls who won the Chicago Toy and Game Fair’s Young Inventor Challenge. They created the playing pieces to look like themselves, used the box as part of the game, and 10% of profits go to the Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago in honor of school mate who died of cancer. 

UltraDash by PlayMonster

It’s a game that gets them moving – and isn’t that what we need!?! Easy to work, easy to put together, three modes, and many ways to play! Get them to Ultra Dash with this fun and inexpensive way to exercise while having a great time playing together. 

YULU SpyCode Operation: Escape Room

Taking off from the escape room craze, SpyCode Operation: Escape Room brings the fun home to you. “Lock up” your friend and then complete challenges to get them out! 

Monopoly Special Edition Gamer

Gamers normally play their games on a screen, but this version of Nintendo’s Mario Bros. comes as the classic game of Monopoly; complete with figurines of the characters and coins instead of cash. If you have a gamer on your list but don’t want to give them another cartridge to add to their list, this is the game for you! 

The New Thing!

Zuru Hamsters Ham’s Burger Diner

Every season their are the must-have toys on the list that you wonder what makes this swoon – the Zuru Hamsters is one of 2017 must-haves! Part of the Hamsters in a House set, the newly released Hamsters in a House Food Frenzy let’s Ham (one of the 11 collectible Hamsters) take over his own diner with lots of fun as he zooms through his diner. Yep, hamsters, food and fun is the name of the game – and they’ll love it. 

Hamster

L.O.L Surprise!

Talk about a gift that’s going to make them go wild! Just like unwrapping any gift, there’s a buzz of anticipation and that feeling of, oh-my-goodness, what’s going to be inside?! L.O.L. Surprise! TM Series 2 includes new Tots with 7 layers of surprise and now, new Lil Sisters with 5 layers of surprise! Each layer reveals a hint of which fierce, fashion-forward L.O.L. Surprise!TM doll you’re unboxing. Over 80 characters to collect, unbox them all!

WowWee Fingerlings

Wonder what gift is making parents everyone sit in lines and pay big dollars to make sure there’s one under the tree? The Fingerlings are 2017 MUST HAVE. This interactive monkeys respond to sound, motion, and touch with blinking eyes, head turns, and silly monkey babble. Blow them kisses and they will kiss you back! Hang them upside-down by the tail and watch them monkey around! Pet them to sleep or make a loud noise and watch them get excited! 

My Golden Ticket A Journey Into Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory

This was the gift I think I wanted but felt like I had to get for my kid instead. Taking a spin on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory but now your child has become part of the journey. Each book is personalized with names, inscriptions and even option chocolate aroma within the pages. You’ll want this one to stay with them for ages. Get 15% off with this code: https://buff.ly/2yhLsSF.

The Classics Gone Better

Nerf Modulus Regulator

The Nerf Modulus Regulator blaster features single-fire, burst-fire, and fully motorized blasting power (yep this is the BIG ONE!) The REGULATOR blaster is customizable and compatible with accessories within the MODULUS system, you can build the ultimate blasters. 

ZFlyte Luggage Scooter

Remember that time you when to the airport with your kiddo and wished they could roll their own suitcase or ride it to the gate instead of you holding their hand? The ZFlyte makes it fun for the kids to take care of their stuff with a combo suitcase and scooter in one. Several characters available for travel made fun. 

Pillow Pets Disney Emoticons

Since 2003, Pillow Pet® plush folding stuffed animals have been bringing smiles to the faces of all ages. But now they’ve added Disney and emoticons to the mix. You can’t ever go wrong with a Pillow Pet and now with Disney, you might even want one for yourself. 

LEGO LOVE

You can’t ever go wrong with LEGO! No matter the age or the gender, we love our LEGOs.

BRICK HEADZ – Beauty and the Beast 

Forget sets, these LEGOS turn into your favorite characters including Belle and Beast! Including all kinds of special detailing, each LEGO BrickHeadz construction character comes with its own buildable collector’s baseplate featuring series number and BrickHeadz icon. Yes, you’ll want to get them all but the best part is, these sets are priced perfect for the stocking stuffers! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEGO Friends Snow Resort Chalet

Make it a winter wonderland all the time with this fun FRIENDS Snow Resort Chalet. Featuring a 2-story log cabin with outdoor hot tub, kitchen, lounge area with fireplace, dining area with table and chairs, upstairs bedroom with 3 beds and a snowmobile. AND mini-doll figures in winter outfits, plus a Luna the husky figure. Accessory elements include skis, wooden trunk, cups, pot, cheese, croissant, board game, snow resort flyer, mobile phone, action camera, perfume bottles, dog food and a map. Yep, this is the best way to go skiing – without going anywhere. 

LEGO SkiChalet

DC SuperHero Girls Eclipso Dark Palace

Move over Batman, the SuperHero Girls are here to rule the world! That’s right, Wonder Woman and her pals are ready to fight evil in their Dark Palace. The Eclipso Dark Palace features a foldout palace, opening tubes to hold LEGO DC Super Hero Girls characters, powering station, planning room, vanity cabinet, weapons cabinet, a Kryptomite creation section and this includes 3 mini-doll figures: Wonder Woman, Eclipso and The Flash, plus 3 orange Kryptomite figures! LEGO Palace

Interactive STEM/STEAM Toys

Disney Princess Dance Code Belle

I love a good princess story, but one that also teaches my child codding, now that’s a tale I’m happy to create. Disney Princess Dance Code Belle uses the 10 dances already included or you choose to use an app, you create Belle’s next move with easy choreography though coding. She sings, she dances, and she makes it all fun! 


Project Mc2 Smart Pixel Purse

My purse can do a lot of things, but light up with designs isn’t one of them. But this one is. Featured on the Emmy nominated Netflix original series, the Pixel Purse is the ultimate accessory for the Nov 8 agents’ next mission.  This real purse comes pre-programmed with over 10 animations for easy out-of-the-box play or customize the multi-color LED display with your own designs or phrases using free iOS and Android app.

Hasbro Play-Doh Touch Shape to Life

Take your Play-Doh creations to the next level with this amazing studio. Take a photo of your creation and watch as it comes to life on screen to move, interact and take clay to a whole new world. 

Hasbro furReal Makers Proto Max

My kid told Santa he wanted a puppy for Christmas. Thankfully I found Proto Max as the answer. The furReal series is so FOR REAL as you use easy coding on an app to create your puppy and then all of his movements, reactions, etc. He moves, he expresses and reacts with his feelings, and changes colors for the perfect pet you don’t have to clean up after. We already named ours Sweetie Baby. 


Don’t miss more giveaways and your Mom Holiday Survival Guide – NOVEMBER 30 ON FACEBOOK!


Hasbro DropMix

Don’t play with this one before your kids or you might keep it for yourself. Really. Developed with Harmonix, creators of Rock Band and Dance Central, you become the DJ with this fast-paced music mixing game that lets you create unexpected song mixes featuring music from top artists and popular songs (the real versions!) using an app and a bluetooth speaker to really let you skills flow. 

Santa Gifts

Little Tikes Princess Horse and Carriage

A classic twist on the favorite little red buggy, your princess or prince will love driving their own carriage (or you can push/pull them with the removable floorboard.) This is a dream for many kids under the tree and you’ll be the Fairy Godmother with the Little Tykes Princess Horse and Carriage. 

BMW Z8 Ride-On

This is the ride we wish we could all zip into the drive way! The BMW Z8 Ride-On from Dynacraft is what the cool kids are driving even when they’re under four foot tall.  This car has an authentic BMW Z8 look and emblems, realistic interior detailing, working headlights and Mp3 input and cord for your kids to Jam out to their favorite tunes while driving! 

Dynacraft Black Ice eDrifter

Dad, this isn’t supposed to be for you, but once you put it together, you might change your mind. The electric drive wheel powers the eDrifter to drift a full 360 to 720 degrees just like you’re on black ice. Like a motorbike this sturdy vehicle (designed for kids 13 and up), has tubeless tires with PVC drifter sleeves and goes 12 miles per hour. 

 

Now get shopping, Christmas is just around the corner!

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How to Win at Holiday Meal Planning

November 22, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

No time to plan that picture-perfect holiday meal? No problem. Win at holiday meal planning in just a few steps. 

Thank you to Barefoot Wine and Thermoserv for helping us put together the perfect holiday for this imperfect parent and this sponsored post. 

If you’re anything like me, you just started putting up the ghosts and goblins and now you’re hosting the family holiday meal at your house tomorrow. (True story.) 

But instead of screaming like a mad woman (although oventing is always allowed), there are a few quick tips you can put to work that still make you look like you’ve been planning for months. 


Quick Tips to Win at Holiday Meal Planning 

1. Ditch the Standard Decor.

This year throw out the gourds on the table and go with something you already have like candles and other pieces you can find around the house. If you choose a few items that are monotone like silver or gold, paired together always look upscale. For our theme this year, we used a few rustic pieces like burlap and white candles blended with golds and roses to make the table pop and the only thing I bought was some fresh flowers at the grocery store. Done in a way that could make JoJo proud. 

Holiday Meal Planning

2. Play up the Placards. 

Mitigate all the wrong people sitting at the table next to each other with table assignments. But you don’t have to spend hours to make cute little individualized pieces, let the kids make it their own craft (delegation is key) or go with class with thank you notes.

Write individual thank you note including why you are thankful for each person coming to dinner and address the envelope with their name. Place on the each seat and tada – table settings. Last minute drop in? You can just quickly write out another one and add it to the their seat. My favorite part is that you’ve added a special note that makes that person feel good and keeps the holidays on the true meaning of friends and family, not spending hours decorating. 

Holiday-Meal-Planning

3. Streamline the Spirits. 

I love having options, especially when it comes to wine, but it does get complicated when you take your menu and your guests into consideration. So instead of trying to pick the right red, white or something else for those that don’t drink wine, go with one signature cocktail and call it done.

I always serve sangria at Thanksgiving and we’ve never had complaints! Plus it looks very festive and can be made in advance so you can concentrate on other dinner making. My new sangria recipe includes fruit and rose. Rose you say? Yep, it’s not just for summer, fall in love with rose and this sangria recipe made with Barefoot Wine Rose that’s not only totally holiday perfect and all year ’round! (And at less than $10 a bottle makes it real easy to keep costs affordable.) 

Rose Sangria

Rosé Sangria

Ingredients 

1 bottle Barefoot Rosé still wine 

2 ½ ounces dark rum 

6 ¼ ounces each of pomegranate, white cranberry and orange juice 

3 ¾ ounces maple syrup

Fresh red pear, green pear and orange cut into thin slices 

Directions 

Place prepared fruit into large pitcher. Pour in all liquid ingredients and stir briefly. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Serve over ice and top with fruit. Done. 

4. Cut the China.

This one was a hard one for me because I LOVE beautiful china and glassware pieces. I’ve collected so many pieces over the years, however, I also am anxious the whole meal it’s going to get broken and then when the meal is over, immediately have to handwash them since they aren’t dishwasher safe. It’s just not worth it! But I’m not suggesting to break out the paper plates either. ThermoServ creates a melamine dinnerware called the Chef’s Collection Classic Series that can be incorporate into your table setting without the worry. Made with 100% Melamine, so it’s scratch and impact resistant (kids!). It;s also restaurant quality and BPA free with no fillers. I used my four place settings with plastic chargers and the table looked first-class without all the glass:) 

Holiday Meal Planning

Holiday Meal Planning

5. Go with Comfort. 

Doesn’t it seem assign that you wear some of the nicest clothes you own to eat greasy food and then lounge watching TV? So don’t.

It may have been your tradition, but at our holiday meal yoga pants and Pjs are our required attire. Everyone comes with a chipper disposition and no one gets their best clothes dirty. Besides who wants to watch the Cowboys in their heels and hose. We already bought ours holiday pjs at Target, so we’ll stay in them all day. Besides, they’re soft and make for comfy wear all day! 

Now cheers and enjoy! 

Holiday Meal Planning

Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms

November 20, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 29 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

 

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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
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Description

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


Scale

Ingredients

  • 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

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​Raspberry​ ​Chipotle​ ​Cocktail​ ​Weenie​ ​Wreath

November 14, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 18 Comments

Forget​ ​cookies…Santa’s​ ​looking​ ​for​ ​this​ ​holiday​ ​hors​ ​d’oeuvres​ ​under​ ​tree.​ ​This​ ​new party​ ​favorite​ ​takes​ ​the​ ​best​ ​of​ ​both​ ​for​ ​the​ ​best​ ​app:​ ​Raspberry​ ​Chipotle​ ​Cocktail​ ​Weenie Wreath.

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Celebrate Your Favorite Disney Princess

January 6, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

What Disney princess does your child love most? More importantly, which Disney Princess is your favorite? Celebrate your princess with Madame Alexander’s new Disney Princess Collection.

Thanks to Madame Alexander for continuing to keep little girls dreaming big with this sponsored post. 

When I was growing up Snow White was my princess du jour. At least until 1991 when Disney unveiled a new kind of princess.  

She wasn’t just beautiful, but had brains and a pretty keen sense of humor. Her name was Belle and at 11 (that was how old I was), I thought she was pretty freaking amazing. 


Disney-Princesses-Teach-Us-to-Dream-Big

Through the years, I’ve loved some Disney Princesses and now with my own little princess, she has, too. I’m sure part of the reason she has every dress of every princess is that deep down I wanted to wear all those princess gowns, too…If I could just that genie out of the bottle (God bless Robin Williams), I’d rock that Jasmine get up too and believe me there would be a freaking parade as I hit a high note that Mariah Carey can’t even reach (well…) 

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

[Dream sequence over and skip forward to 2017.] Beauty and the Beast hasn’t lost any popularity as exhibited by my little princess that loves her Belle dress she received last Christmas or any of the millions of fans that are counting down until March when the animated favorite comes alive in a new rendition of the timeless tale (go ahead, you should totally watch the trailer.)

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

So with a lot of negative things happening in the world and unfortunately many of them pointed at little girls, a heroine like Belle is exactly what I want my daughter to look to as a positive image. Belle is the whole package in my eyes and sees passed what’s on the outside of people (and what other people think), but to the goodness that is found in all people. And she prides herself on being independent and walking to the beat of her own drum.

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

Can’t complain about that. 

And any movie that has Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, the feather duster; six-time Tony Award® winner Audra McDonald as Madame Garderobe, Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts, I’m just as excited to be in line to watch this one, too.

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

Until the movie debuts and well after the classic runs its time at the local movie theatre, another classic continues to bring the spirit of the princess alive. A new collection of Madame Alexander Disney Princesses was just launched featuring Belle, Ariel and Cinderella. 

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

[clickToTweet tweet=”‘For every girl who dreams big, there’s a princess to show her it’s possible.’ @madameadoll #mamachallenge ” quote=”‘For every girl who dreams big, there’s a princess to show her it’s possible.’ ” theme=”style1″]

Disney Princesses Teach Us to Dream Big

Celebrate Disney Princesses with the new collection of 18-inch dolls featuring luxurious design elements that every princess lover will cherish. With three of the Disney Princesses to launch, your princess (designed for ages 3 and up) will love any of these to play or collect for many years to come. 

Disney Princess Madame Alexander

Madame Alexander Disney Princess Collectible Doll is priced at $ 89.95 and available on their website for a limited time. 

Best Christmas Casseroles

December 23, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Christmas Casseroles will get you to the top of Santa’s list fast. If you put one of these together in the morning, it’ll be perfect to put in the oven Christmas morning while you open gifts!  

Don’t you love the decor from JCPenney?!? #SoWorthi t#JoyWorthGiving

Best-Holiday-Casseroles

 


 

Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Eggs Benedict Casserole

ChickenandWaffles

Make-Ahead-Holiday-Casseroles

 

Best Damn Chicken and Waffles Casserole

December 22, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Chicken and waffles gets even better when it goes casserole! And with one sweet ingredient, you’ll be saying THIS IS the best damn chicken and waffles casserole. 

I remember the first time I heard about chicken and waffles I was like…what? That doesn’t sounds good? Why is everyone freaking out about chicken and waffles? 

…Then I had it. 

Then I understood. 


ChickenandWaffles
There’s something about the sweetness, the crunch, and the little bit of spice, sandwiched together into one perfect bite. 

Yep, I like it…

But to time the fresh golden fluffy waffles at the same time as hot fried chicken is a little difficult and way more time consuming than I’m willing to put forward (or at least have time to!) 

So in true #mamachallenge form, it was time to look to the world of semi-homemade and put it all together into one dish for a bigger dish of happiness.

Frozen waffles to the rescue! 

ChickenandWaffles

ChickenandWaffles
Cooking everything together into Chicken and Waffles Casserole not only makes it easier on making, but also serving! And since you can make this in advance, this casserole is ideal for big breakfast/brunch moment like Christmas or when you really want to make an impression. 

ChickenandWaffles

However, the impression really gets better when the chicken hits the tastebuds. One of our favorite chicken spots is hands down Chick-Fil-A. If you’ve had it, you know – it’s that good. There’s something about CFA and any drive by the eatery with lines of folks parked double-laned around the joint will verify – their chicken is THAT good. While I don’t know what makes it take like what dreams are made of, inspired by the sweetness of their chicken, we added powdered sugar to our breading, along with a little spice to cinch the deal on this chicken and waffles casserole. 

Oh man, it’s THAT GOOD.

ChickenandWaffles

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Best Damn Chicken and Waffles Casserole


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  • Author: Autumn Reo, mamachallenge.com
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Description

The best of both worlds come together for the Best Damn Chicken and Waffles.


Scale

Ingredients

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 9 large eggs
  • 2 3/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 8 frozen waffles, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • Serve with maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
  2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and spray with the cooking spray.
  3. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces.
  4. Mix together the flour, powdered sugar, chilli powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl.
  5. Beat 3 eggs in a shallow bowl.
  6. Place the panko breadcrumbs into a third shallow bowl.
  7. Toss the chicken in the flour to coat, then dip into the egg, and then place in the panko, turning to coat. Place onto the prepared baking sheets and repeat with the rest of the chicken.
  8. Spray the chicken with the cooking spray then bake, turning the chicken over halfway through, for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Set aside.
  9. Grease an 8×13 inch baking dish.
  10. Add half of the cubed waffles in a single layer.
  11. Top with half of the chicken and 1/2 of the cheese then layer the remaining waffles and chicken and cheese.
  12. Whisk together 6 eggs, milk, salt and pepper in a medium bowl until combined.
  13. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the chicken and waffles.
  14. Bake at 325 degrees F for 45 to 50 minutes or refrigerate overnight and bake the next day.

Notes

  • If you really want crispy chicken quick, you can opt to deep fry the chicken instead of baking!

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ChickenandWaffles

Eggs Benedict Casserole

December 21, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Eggs Benedict is quintessential brunch food. It’s delicate, it’s heavy, it’s creamy, and it’s oh. so. good. Then make Eggs Benedict Casserole and you’ll never go back. 

This with a glass of bubbles and this girl is oh.so.happy.

I don’t remember the first time I had eggs bennie, but I know I was young. When other kids were ordering pancakes, I’d put up my pinky and order the “eggs benedict, please.”

Eggs-Benedict-Casserole


I thought I was so fancy having the bennies.

However, it does take a little work to make perfectly poached eggs and of course, the hollandaise sauce.

If you need to make it for more than one, it almost takes away all the fun that brunch can bring.

Eggs-Benedict-Casserole

But when you make it in casserole form, you alleviate the work and even better, you can make it an advance.

Thus came the idea for eggs benedict casserole. Like eggs benedicts of today, you can add anything you want to it. Just stick with this basic recipe and modify as you see fit.

Just be careful not to make this and not invite anyone over – otherwise, you’ll eat it all yourself.

Eggs-Benedict-Casserole

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Eggs Benedict Casserole


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Ingredients

  • INGREDIENTSNutrition
  • SERVINGS 10UNITS US
  • 6 English muffins
  • 12 ounces Canadian bacon / ham
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups reduced-fat milk (or whole milk)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • cooking spray
  • 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika
  • Hollandaise Sauce
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
  • cayenne
  • salt

Instructions

  1. ut muffins into 1/2-inch cubes. Set aside. Cut Canadian bacon into 1/2-inch squares. Set aside. Whisk the eggs well in a 2-quart bowl. Whisk in milk and onion powder.
  2. Spray a 9-by-13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with cooking oil spray. Scatter half the Canadian bacon evenly in bottom of dish. Scatter muffin cubes on top of Canadian bacon. Top with the remaining Canadian bacon, scattering it evenly over the bread. Pour egg mixture over the casserole. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or at least 8 hours, to let bread absorb egg mixture.
  3. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Remove casserole from refrigerator and uncover it. Lightly sprinkle the paprika evenly over the top. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove dish from the oven, remove foil, return dish to the oven and continue to bake, uncovered, until the eggs are set and the bacon on top begins to crisp, about 20 minutes more. Remove the casserole from oven and let it stand 5 minutes before serving.
  4. While casserole bakes, make a hollandaise sauce.
  5. Whisk the egg yolks and lemon juice together until the mixture is thickened and doubled in volume. Place the bowl over a saucepan with lightly boiling water, the water should not touch the bottom of the bowl.
  6. Continue to whisk rapidly.
  7. Be careful not to let the eggs get too hot or they will scramble.
  8. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter and continue to whisk until the sauce is thickened and doubled in volume.
  9. Remove from heat, whisk in cayenne and salt.

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Eggs Benedict Casserole

Make-Ahead-Holiday-Casseroles

Holiday Help: What to do with the Kids During Holiday Break

December 17, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Now that the kids are out of school…what to do, what to do… Here are ideas on what to do with the kids to make the holidays special without all the work.

GaylordTexanHoliday

Go Elsa with Ice Skating

  • You can sign up for skating school at the Galleria Dallas Ice Rink for a three-day workshop on the ice around the tallest indoor Christmas tree. For only $42 – your child can have three days of skate lessons, skate rentals, free skating – December 19-21 and December 26-28.
  • Visit Panther Island ICE in Fort Worth for skating fun now – Jan. 16!
  • Gaylord Texan Lone Star Christmas also is featuring an ice skating rink outside as part of their ICE! Activities this year, so you can make a day of it in Grapevine.

Gaylord-Texan

Let’s Lego with Sci Tech Discovery Center

  • If you have a LEGO lover (ages 3-12), they’ll love seeing and learning about castles made with LEGOs and be able to make their own at the Castle Builder Exhibit at Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco. 
  • They are also offering Winter Holiday Wonderland Camps and Maker Space Camps for opportunities for learning about winter activities. Choose 1 day or all 5 days. Grades 1st – 3rd and 4th – 6th. $75/day member $85 non/member. 
  • Check out MindStretchingFun.org for all the details.

Celebrate German-Style with Lebkuchen and Lace

  • Arlington goes big and the holidays are no exception! Head over to the 6th Annual Texas Christkindl Market now until Dec. 23. 
  • Saturday, December 17 the event hosts Vocal Majority singing at 4 PM. Next week you can bring the kids for extended Peppermint Park hours and slide down the Arctic Blast Tubing Run while getting your holiday shopping complete.

TexasChristkindlMarket

Reign them in with Reindeer

  • These are my favorite because they are also great gifts for the kids to give to grandma or grandpa or friends. Love this tutorial from Everyday Best.

Cider

Fun with Frosty: Snowman Crafts

  • Crafts don’t have to be complicated to be fun! Get in the spirit with these beautiful snowman crafts from Julie Measures.
  • With a trip to the Dollar Store or Michaels, you can create making fun crafts while spending time together.

Fox4

Visit mamachallenge.com for links to these recipes, ideas, giveaways and more!

Follow us on Facebook @mamachallenge, Twitter @mamachallenge, Pinterest @mamachallenge, and Instagram @autumnreo. 

 

 

 

Last Minute Holiday Shopping with Grapevine Mills

December 16, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Feel like an elf trying to get the holidays together before they’re over? With the help of Grapevine Mills you CAN mark off your last minute holiday shopping list – all in one place! 

Thanks to Grapevine Mills for this special collaboration to bring you the lowdown on how it needs to go down this holiday season!

I love Christmas, so I thought I’d never be working to the nth hour to get it done. 

Unfortunately, all the other stuff around this time of year made time to shop impossible! But with extended shopping hours (10 am – 10 pm), you can find a way to fit it all in, down to even pictures with Santa until Christmas Eve! 


LastMinuteShopping

Reserve Your Spot with Santa 

New this year to Grapevine Mills, you’ll find a whole new Santa’s World of Wishes in Center Court. With beautiful new decorations, Santa loves his new home away from the North Pole and you will too. However, what I love is the opportunity to skip the line to make the most of your few shopping days ’til Christmas with a new Santa by Appointment so you can reserve your spot! And as a part of a teachable moment, if you’re in the giving spirit (and we should all be), you can donate to Save the Children while you’re there and help other children in need! 

Santa at Grapevine Mills

Photo Credit: The Mills

Looking for a little more time with the big guy with your little guys? There are spots still available for Breakfast with Santa at Rainforest Cafe! Reservations for December 17, 18 & even December 23 can still be made – and include: 

  • Greet by Cha!Cha!
  • Breakfast Buffet
  • Fun Activities
  • Visit from Santa
  • Photo opportunity with Cha!Cha! and Santa
  • Raffles
  • Arts & Crafts

And then there was Shopping! 

With more than 180 stores and 1.6 million sq. ft., you have plenty of options for whomever is on your list! I actually remember when Grapevine Mills open and how exciting it was with all the cool entertainment, outlet retail and restaurants! Recently, the center underwent a multi-million dollar renovation to continue to make it a cool destination for the whole family in the middle of DFW! So if you haven’t been here, you definitely need to check out big changes as well as the small details that have revitalized the look of the center as well as the comfort to its guests! 

grapevine-mills-04

Photo Credit: The Mills

Just a few of my favorites here: 

  • Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH
  • H&M
  • GameStop
  • Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop
  • Coach Factory
  • LOFT Factory Store
  • Disney Outlet
  • Jack and Jill 
  • Abercrombie & Fitch 
  • Helzberg Diamond Outlet
  • Ross Dress for Less
  • The Children’s Place Outlet
  • Oakley Vault

And those are just the highlights! I mean you really can find what you need and at the price point you need it for everyone on your list (hubs totally loves his Bass Pro Shop!) Get the full list of stores here and especially the deals you can only find at Grapevine Mills!

Grapevine-Mills-Mall-Kids

Still looking for ideas? Then join us December 16 at 3 pm for a special FACEBOOK LIVE! with Grapevine Mills! We’ll be sharing some of our favorite holiday finds and tips to how to get ready for the holidays! And you’ll be able to win $50 Simon Gift Card just for joining in. Visit Facebook.com/mamachallenge at 3 pm CST whereever you are – on your desktop, phone or tablet. Just consider us your holiday helpers! 

FacebookLastMinuteHolidayShoppingGrapevineMills

Looking for Holiday Fun

you bring the crew or are looking to ways to spend time together without driving all over DFW, then Grapevine Mills is your place. With AMC Grapevine Mills 30 with Dine-In Theatres, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Aquarium and Rainforest Cafe you have it all! And if you still need to get in your ice skating, holiday lights, and more, then just only a few miles away, you’ll find the Gaylord Texan Lonestar Christmas and the rest of the Christmas Capital of the World! 

SeaLifeSanta

Photo credit: SEA LIFE Aquarium

Now aren’t you ready to hit the ‘Mills for the holidays? 

 

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Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

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

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Pictures Say a 1000 Words

Fancy Schmancy. This month’s @torchystacos Taco Fancy Schmancy.

This month’s @torchystacos Taco of the Month is this beut: she’s full of eggs, smoked salmon, pickled onions, capers, chopped dill, and the herb cream cheese. And yes she’s fancy but oh so good and worth the splurge.

Paired with a side of queso and change out the chips for chicharrones with that white queso (and maybe a Paloma), and you’re golden. 

#torchytacos #salmon #tacos #paloma #fancy #torchys #dryjanuary #dill #salmon #dfweats #dallaseats
Who doesn’t like chocolate? But what if it’s Who doesn’t like chocolate?

But what if it’s truffles made with avocados past their prime? 🤢? Don’t knock it until you try it #recipeontheblog

Today on @wfaagmt I shared how to make the most of those leftovers and old vegetables and fruits! The kitchen smells so good with an apple tarte tartin, truffles, potato chips, broth, banana bread, and this cilantro green sauce! ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Taken from @beardfoundation:

INGREDIENTS

1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1⁄2 cup fresh cilantro stems (from 1 bunch of cilantro)
1⁄2 cup olive oil or neutral oil, such as organic canola or grapeseed
1⁄2 tsp ground cumin

DIRECTIONS

In a blender or the mixing cup of a small food processor or immersion blender, combine the vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Swirl a few times to dissolve the salt. Add the stems, olive oil, and cumin — puree. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

#wfaa #tv #recipe #goodmorningtexas #chocolatetruffles #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger #eatwell #dfw #momblogger #healthylifestyle #wholefoodmethod
Kept and Queso may sound a lot alike, but I don’ Kept and Queso may sound a lot alike, but I don’t think that’s the way it work...🌯

Today was a busy one: getting ready for the week and getting prepped for a tv segment (tomorrow on @wfaagmt, so I had to call in for reinforcements. While I may be on the no-carb wagon, the rest of the fam wanted something different -  fresh, full of flavor and delivered fast...enter @savageburritos!

Made from the @unclejuliosmexican family, this ghost kitchen delivery service offers specialty burritos, bowls, salads, the holy trinity (queso, chips and salsa) and even dessert - all to your door! 

Find ‘em online and find out why you’ll go savage for more! And thanks @savageburritos for such great service! 

#savageburritos #savageburrito #unclejulios #texmex #dfweats #mamachallenge #dallasfood #dallasmoms #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger
Nothing like trying to eat healthier and your kid Nothing like trying to eat healthier and your kid surprises you with an over-the-top hot cocoa in bed.

...But at least she put it in my @shopcarrieelle mugs.

I’m wondering if this was my first teat of 2021.
Hoping to make 2021 a lot brighter. ✨ Happy New Hoping to make 2021 a lot brighter. ✨

Happy New Year’s Y’all!

#ArlingtonTexas #ArlingtonTx #dfw #nye #lonestarnye
Consider 2021 the light at the end of the tunnel. Consider 2021 the light at the end of the tunnel.

We’ve been working to squeeze in all the celebrations this week before it’s time to work out all the tears, wine and carbs 2020 brought. 🍷 🥖 😭 

What’s your NYE plan? And most of all what’s your last cheat meal? 

#dfw #nye #newyears #covidchristmas2020 #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger
The 80s are coming back in full force...but does m The 80s are coming back in full force...but does my visor match my mask? 😱

Actually my #OOTD is part of our equipment to take down aliens in London circa 1984 at @electricgamebox, the new immersive gaming experience @grandscapetx. Opening December 24, it’s the perfect way to spend some family time TOGETHER, hear a bada$@ soundtrack (hello, 80s!?!) and burn calories (don’t worry about those extra cookies!)

Before you go: 

🕹Have a team name ready

🕹Wear tennis shoes, no hats or hair bands, and comfortable clothes. 

🕹There’s a locker to put your bag in if you need to drop it off!

🕹Safety is #1: Masks are a must, no contact and you’re the only ones in your game room! 

🕹The experience is an hour so be ready to move bc you will! 

Swipe to see our score and family photo (emailed to you after your experience!)

Thanks for some pre-Christmas fun Electric Gamebox! (Partner)

#dallas #dfw #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger #dallasmoms #dallastexas #electricgamebox #covidchristmas #2020 #openingsoon
❄️ I’m dreaming of a White Christmas... We ❄️ I’m dreaming of a White Christmas...

We normally head to the mountains at Christmas time, but this year we’re just happy to celebrate Christmas healthy and together with lots of wonderful trips around home including to the @gaylordtexan. So we broke from our matching plaid instead with this mom/daughter snowflake set from @shinestythreads. Most their stuff is exactly what you need to dominate the Christmas sweater game, our little bit of cheesy (cue “Let it Go...”) but came out too sweet not to share. (When they’re this age, you take it when you get it!)

Shinesty is the resource for all the holidays apparel and even does free returns! Save their page for when you need to be the talk of the party (online and in person.) 

🎄And for details about the @gaylordtexan Lonestar Christmas like this week’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Brunch, head to the blog (and remember the code REO gets you a discount on some of your activities!)

#shinesty #snow #dfw AD #gaylordchristmas #gaylordtexan #visitgrapevine #dallastexas #dfwinfluencer #dallasbloggers #matchingoutfits #snowdfw #somuchchristmas
One other thing came out of #2020 besides drive-th One other thing came out of #2020 besides drive-thru margaritas...I had time to enjoy wrapping my gifts! 

While we had a minor Santa disaster yesterday, I devised a mom save and moved on to the wrapping paper! I even made my Christmas tags with my @Cricut to match my white & silver snow theme! 

Do you theme your wrapping? What was this year?

You finally can get yours or stock up on accessories now at 50% off now with this link or download the LIKEtoKNOW.it shopping app to shop this pic via screenshot. http://liketk.it/34fvi #liketkit @liketoknow.it 
 #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome @liketoknow.it.family @liketoknow.it.home
...Hold your horses! 🐴✨🎄 I love celebrati ...Hold your horses! 🐴✨🎄

I love celebrating our holiday traditions, but this year we made a new one! I’ve always wanted to see Christmas lights by carriage ride and this year we made it happen by surprising the girls! 

We spent the night looking at beautiful houses, drinking hot chocolate under the blankets and hearing some of the best commentary from the girls!

🐴 There are several different carriage ride companies (we used Whitehaven Carriages) that drive through Deerfield and Highland Park with multiple types of carriages (there’s even a Cinderella) for varying prices starting around $175+. 

🐴While rides reserve quickly, you might be able to find some after the holidays! If not, put this in the calendar for next year because it’s a must do!

(I’ve shared some of it on Instastories!)

#dfw #highlandpark #dallasbloggers  #christmasdecor #horses #chriatmaslights #dallas #dfwevents #dallasinfluencer #dfwinfluencer #christmastradition
Just ONE more day! The countdown to Christmas may Just ONE more day!

The countdown to Christmas may be a week away, but @thecroods New Age is available by demand tomorrow! 

The kids have been so excited about this debut and have decorated for the occasion with their goodies from @dreamworks! 🎁 (Partner)

#CROODSNEWAGE #dreamworks #thecroods #giftideas #dfwinfluencers #dallassocialinfluencers #movie #fandango #momlife #sloth
🎶I’m dreaming of a white Christmas...🎶 . 🎶I’m dreaming of a white Christmas...🎶 

...to drink that is, The Dude style. Picking up last minute gifts, I took a brief break at @lockwooddistillingco. They have a great holiday cocktail list and if you’re lucky, you’ll find some awesome gift baskets under their Biggie & Snoop Christmas tree will make everyone happy for Christmas (twofer!)

Whatever you do, don’t leave without a bottle of the Bourbon Creme or Cinnamon Rum to make it through the holidays (who needs eggnog when you can drink this?)

#lockwooddistillingco #biglebowski #dfw #richardsontx #dallastx #holidaydrinks #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger #whitechristmas #giftidea #biggie #snoop
#MomTruth: What are you buying and wrapping yourse #MomTruth: What are you buying and wrapping yourself to put under the tree and saying it’s from the kids? 🌲 

For me it was this crossbody from @bestofsevenshop. I love a beautiful big handbag (hello @louisvuitton!), but lately I’ve kept it to the essentials as we enjoyed all the holiday events safely, but I still wanted it to be cute! 

Best of Seven style is classic: full of pockets and zippers as well different styles that let you interchange colors to make it your own! “Keeping it your own” is their mission by celebrating diversity:
🌈 races
🌈religion
🌈genders
🌈sexual orientation
🌈Abilities and disabilities
🌈Ages

And you know I love a monogram! 

Today’s the last day to get 30% off and still get it personalized! Get the link in my profile!

#bestofseven #diversity #giftideas #dallasblogger #style #holidays #grinch #rainbow #dfwinfluencers #dallasmoms #covidchristmas
SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS. 🎄🎁🎅🏼 It’s incred SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS. 🎄🎁🎅🏼

It’s incredible how much you can do in 24 hours and how many photos you can take - 422 to be exact.

Have you been so busy you haven’t had time to do the Christmas stuff? Get in all the holiday fun with our guide to SO MUCH Christmas at the Gaylord Texan @gaylordtexan.

We even share how to save some money (use the code REO!)

Link to the guide is in the profile and #ontheblog.

#gaylordtexan #ChristmasatGaylordTexan #ilovechristmasmoviesWB #SoMuchChristmas #gaylordchristmas #dfw #visitgrapevine #christmas #dfwinfluencers #dallasinfluencer #travelblogger #traveltex #grapevinetx
Are you making a different kind of O Face because Are you making a different kind of O Face because your not sure if that box is gonna make it? O-NO! 😱

Deadlines start today fast and being in those long lines might be the worst part of Christmas. However, I shared some tips  on @wfaagmt on how you can avoid feeling like a Grinch when it comes to shipping. 🙌🏻

Here are some tips you might not know before you get in line: 

🎁 The big three all have pick up at your house, by going online and scheduling for pick up @ups, @usps.official and @fedex.

Did you know that several stores actually have shipping inside? 
🎁Some Ace Hardware stores @acehardware and local Eliott’s Hardware
🎁 @Staples - they have all the supplies for you to box it up (and I have a coupon in my Instastories!)
🎁 CVS ships UPS
🎁 Heading to those third party parcel stores can definitely save you some time.

Ship to Store is a huge way to get the item delivered quicker to you or to have sent. 
🎁 Get your @amazon sent to an Amazon Locker  or @wholefoods for shipping and pick up! 
🎁 @target - drive through pick up with the App 
🎁 @Walmart - just launched a new service called Walmart+ which is like Amazon Prime where you can get it. (Try it free now!) 

Last-minute shipping?
🎁 While you might not want to pay for those last-minute shipping services, if you use @rakuten you can save money on your purchase so then it still can be affordable for your budget. (I have already racked up a $600 cash back check just for using Rakuten - head to my profile to get a link to get $20 back when you use it! (It’s FREE!) 

@wfaagmt @wfaa #dfw #shipping #holiday #savemoney #dfwinfluencers #dallasinfluencers #dallas #giftideas #mamachallenge #giftguide #covidchristmas
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