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mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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4 Ingredient Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

July 1, 2021 By Autumn Rose Reo 11 Comments

Summertime means ice cream, but no one wants to spend the day making it! With just a few ingredients, you can make any kind of ice cream! We love this 4 Ingredient Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream, but you can make it your way any day.

As shown on Good Morning Texas.

Isn’t it funny that moms spend all that time scoping out Pinterest and creating beautiful meals plans for the family – and don’t normally end up eating any of them?

FiberOneFlavor8


With all the pick ups, drop offs, appointments, loads of laundry, and dishes, and making dinner for the family, there’s never really a time to sit down for a meal. It’s always on the way out the door, in the car, or after everyone has gone to sleep. Besides, when’s the last time you tried to eat meatloaf and vegetables with one hand while typing on the computer? 

FiberOneFlavor

So I resort to snacks…thankfully none of them are shaped like fish or dinosaurs. And being that I want to try to make healthy decisions, but still want it to taste good, Fiber One Bars to the rescue. Whether I’m in need of some protein, a middle-of-the-day snack, or a sweet treat, there are several options with added fiber to keep my taste buds and digestive system in check. Having these buried in a bag, drawer, or the back of the pantry (away from my kids’ little fingers), has saved me many times from not just going hungry, but making sure I don’t head for something that I’ll regret again and again later. 

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When you bite into one, you never would think that you can get a box of something this good and for only around $3 a box at Walmart!

Fiber One

Full of fiber and flavor, Fiber One bars make a good choice for any time of the day (especially when you’re trying to get things done!) 

Easy, No Churn 4 Ingredient Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

But with summer in full swing, there’s nothing better than a deliciously sweet bowl of dreamy creamy ice cream. So taking the best of both worlds of strawberry cheesecake and ice cream, here’s an easy recipe for 4 ingredient strawberry cheesecake ice cream that will have you looking forward to #snaccidents again and again. And with only 4 ingredients and almost no work (you don’t even need an ice cream maker.) 

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While you do use whipping cream for this summerific treat, choose a lowfat/nonfat condensed milk. Using strawberry pie filling also helps to make this ice cream next level, fresh or frozen strawberries can be substituted if you want to add more fruit and less sweetness. With just a few hours, in the freezer, your #snaccident can be transformed into a life-changing snack experience. 

FiberOneFlavor

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4 Ingredient Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

An easy recipe for strawberry cheesecake ice cream with four ingredients featuring Fiber One Bars.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cup whipping cream
  • 1 can low fat condensed milk (14 oz)
  • 1 cup strawberry pie filling, 1 half can
  • 1–2 Fiber One Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, crumbled

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

FiberOneFlavor7

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Teaching Kids Patriotism

June 27, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 28 Comments

Teaching kids patriotism is more important than ever. It’s not just flying the flag, popping fireworks and saying the pledge. But why we’re proud to be American and what it means to not just to be good to others, but the real spirit of the red, white and blue. 

This story was originally written almost four years ago. However, today, more than ever, it means so much more. So while our country is in struggle, strife and battle over race, politics, and a pandemic, we need not to continue to act divided, but together…stronger than ever. This is the only way we’ll move forward as a country.

I was busy as normal for the summer, taking pictures of my kids. This time of my kids donning their red, white and blue for July 4.

I realized that the kids only understood this as a fashion shoot – not a milestone in our country’s history.


TCP-Flag8

“Do you know what patriotism is?” I asked my son. 

“No, mama,” his little mouth answered. “What is it?” 

Ironically, only a few minutes later, looking down at my calendar he asked, “mama, what’s Flag Day?” 

I realized that in that moment, just because we had bought the shirt, hung our flag proudly and appropriately ever holiday, and had taught them to be quiet when the Star-Spangled Banner played at the ball game, we had failed at teaching him and his sister the why…the why we fly the flag, the why we celebrated with fireworks, the why we stop everything when the familiar beat of the pattering drums begin at any sporting event. 

The WHY is what matters. 

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And we’re those people that have at least 15 Texas flags in our home. Heck, we named our kids after U.S. presidents…really: Jackson and Taylor. And we did that on purpose because we felt that a presidential name instilled a sense of prestige, honor, and respect. But it shows just because we felt the power of patriotism, we hadn’t spent the time to instill the same importance to them. 

So here are a few ways that will not just teach kids patriotism, but remind you why it’s important for us to remember what it means to be an American and to proudly wear the red, white and blue. 

1. It’s more than flying the Flag…but that’s a start. 

I love that my local rotary ensures that each holiday that formality calls for a flag, there’s one flying in my yard without request or fail. It’s a service they’ve provided for years and I feel so patriotic to look down my street and see the beautiful Old Glory waving in the wind. However, it’s not just about making sure we’re holding up our end in neighborhood; it’s about showing we’re proud to be a part of a country that has worked for more than 2oo years with just 13 colonies to become a mighty nation of 50 states strong. 

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2. Don’t just say the Pledge or sing the National Anthem. Understand what the words really mean. 

Every day my kids say the Pledge of Allegiance at school. I love the idea of them learning 31-words that were made as a promise to be loyal to our country, to be united together as a nation, and be fair to each other as people to create the best place in the world to live. (Well something like that.) This also goes for the Star-Spangled Banner. The words describe our history and to remind us all what we have, what we do, and what we will hopefully continue to work towards for even more centuries to come. 

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3. Celebrate Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. 

More importantly, share the meaning why we celebrate them including Flag Day and Veterans Day. And while picnics and fireworks are fun to watch, we all need to remember it’s more than that. I know each of us may describe what these patriotic holidays mean to us differently, but ultimately, each one signifies how and WHO has served our country to make it what it is.

If you have a member of the military/veteran in your family, speaking with them or explain what they day makes it even more personal for kids to understand. Even if you don’t, speaking with kids that there are men and women all over the world who have helped to protect them and will continue to keep our country strong, will help them to be able to understand that saying thank you is the least that we can do for our armed forces and first responders. 

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4. Explain the colors of America; beyond the red, white and blue. 

The colors of our flag have meaning. White signifies purity and innocence; Red symbolizes hardiness & valour, and Blue shows vigilance, perseverance & justice.  However, beyond those colors, are the colors that also make up the U.S. We are a melting pot – different backgrounds, different races, and different religions. But ultimately, our differences are what make us stronger and united as one country. 

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5. Know the freedoms that make our country what it is. 

This is more than just a few minutes of discussion, but doesn’t have to be a history lesson either. Thanks to the Bill of Rights, what makes our country great, is that we are promised that there are certain rights that allow us to live as we want with others without anyone taking them away. However, with those freedoms also mean we have a responsibility to fight for those rights and to give to our country and our communities in any and every way we can. 

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How do you describe patriotism? How do you share it with your kids? 

 

Patriotism

 

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Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

June 22, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo 68 Comments

Love the idea of grilling, but think it’s too complicated? We’re sharing the basics you need to get your grill on with our Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak! 

Thank you to Market Street for helping all of us girls (and guys) get our grill on with this sponsored post. 

Isn’t it funny that so many mamas take on the world (literally) every day, but when it comes to grilling think it’s too hard or should be left to the guys? 

Just answer me this: Do you like the idea of biting into a juicy, sizzling steak? Do you like to entertain? Want to make a special meal for your special someone? Then you need to know how to grill a steak. 


Guide to Grilling a Steak

…But don’t worry, it’s not near as hard as you think it is. Now don’t get me wrong, grilling is just as much an art and a science as it is skill. I have the utmost for those that have mastered it, but we don’t have to be the best to have a really good steak dinner. And before you get any further down, here’s your real disclaimer: Grilling is subjective and everyone does it different. 

 

However, we’re gonna give you the absolute basics to get your first steak from purchase to plate without much work, hassle, or slaving over a grill for hours. (Besides, who has time for that!)  

Steak

Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

1) It’s all in the meat. 

No matter what marinade you use, what you cook it on, or what you pair with it, you need to pick a great piece of steak. I honestly didn’t have a clue except that there was steak and there was hamburger meat. So off to Market Street I went to figure it all out when the butcher came out to help me (he must have seen the scare in my eyes!) He explained the cuts of meat so I knew what I was looking at and how best to cook it. 

Guide to Grilling a Steak

There are three basic classes you should know when it comes to your beef: Prime (best), Choice (better) and Select (good.) 

When it comes to flavor, it’s all in the marbling or the little white flecks in beef – is key to flavor. The higher the amount of marbling, the higher the quality of beef.


When it comes to the meat, Rancher’s Reserve is always a great choice with 100% Angus beef that is juicy, tender and full of flavor.


Now for the fun stuff, the cuts! These four steaks all come from the same general area of the cow – the short loin, tenderloin, and the ribs. 

TENDERLOIN // aka filet mignon / Boneless cut from the short loin and sirloin. / Most tender and most expensive cut of steak.

Guide to Grilling a Steak

T-BONE // aka Porterhouse / Bone in cross section of the unfilleted short loin with combo of f tenderloin and NY strip. / Great taste but difficult to cook with two different cuts. 

Guide to Grilling a Steak

NY STRIP // Boneless & sometimes bone-in short loin behind the ribs. / Fine grained texture with some marbling.

Guide to Grilling a Steak

RIBEYE // aka Delmonico /Boneless & bone-in cut from the rib cage. / Lots of marbling and fat pockets for the juiciest flavor. 

Guide to Grilling a Steak

The Ribeye is by far the best choice for new grillers. It’s more tender than the other cuts of beef and has lots of marbling, which means lots of juicy flavor! 


When it comes to the cut, you’ll want to aim for 1 1/4 inch – 1 1/2 inch cut.  

Don’t see any in the case? Then ask your butcher to assist you! Market Street will cut it to your specifications!


2) Season and Sit it Out.

Alrighty…this is where there are all kinds of opinions on the best way to make your steak taste perfect. What you put on it, how long you let it sit on the steak and how long you choose to put the steak in the fridge or at room temperatures varies as much as there are different opinions on how best to soothe a crying baby. There’s been tons of research, experiments, and lots of hot-headed opinions but for this first-timer’s steak: we’re keeping it basic. You’ll find your own way after you do it for the first time. 

Take your steak out of the fridge at least thirty minutes before you plan to cook your steak. Pat your steak with a paper towel. 

Add LOTS of kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to both sides (it’s going to seem excessive, but this will add the simple seasoning your steak needs. (Put it in your palm and let it fly!) 

Let the steak sit at room temperature for around half an hour. 

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3) Get your Grill Going. 

The biggest question here is: How are you planning to cook this thing! 

Gas: By far the easiest way way to grill is on a gas grill. Turn on the tank, turn the burner, ignite, and close the lid for around 10 minutes when the grill hits around 425-450 degrees. Now you’re ready to roll! 


Is it time to cook? Hold your hand about about four to six inches above the grill grate, palm down. If you can hold it one to three seconds before you need to pull your hand away, you’re at high heat.


Charcoal: Yes, you’re going to have to light it up! Starting with a clean grill like this one, lay your self-starting charcoal (it has lighter fluid in the briquettes so you don’t have to deal with it) in a grid pattern. Then light each corner and let it go! Close the grill and either using a thermometer or the hand method (see above), wait until the charcoal has lost its flame and beginning to turn gray.  

Guide to Grilling a Steak

Pan-fry: It never seems to fail that you make plans to grill and Mother Nature makes another plan! When you’re in a rush or weather doesn’t permit outdoor grilling, go with the iron skillet! Just put it on high and let it go (I also like to add a little oil and butter to the pan for even more flavor!)  

 

Our fourth is sizzlin’…? Ribeye, butter, garlic, rosemary and an iron skillet. All you need for the perfect steak. ? Get your guide to yours on mamachallenge! (FYI Ribeyes are on big sale now at @marketstreet_tx!) #marketstreet #ad #fourthofjuly

A post shared by Autumn?mamachallenge.com ? (@mamachallenge) on Jul 3, 2017 at 6:21am PDT

4) Let’s Get Cooking. 

Alright, Alright, Alright! We’ve reached the big show! 

If you’re making your steaks on the grill, then you’re going to wait to cook your steaks until they get to your specific level of doneness. 


Rare // 120 degrees     Medium Rare // 130 degrees     Medium // 140 degrees     

Medium Well // 150 degrees     Well Done // 160 degrees


Guide to Grilling a Steak

You can also use the finger test, but this isn’t always accurate as using this.

5) Dinner is Done. 

To cut or to sit out, that is the question! One of the biggest controversies (yes, it’s that big of a deal) is whether you need to let your steak sit before serving. While there is all kinds of rationales for why you should and why you shouldn’t, but for me it’s simple: If you wait about 5 minutes after you take it off the heat, there’s less juice therefore less mess. So that’s my win-win. 

Steak

Now let’s eat!

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Super Summer Supper: Lemonade Inspired Recipes

July 5, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

There’s nothing more summer than a glass of cold lemonade! We’ve the secret to the perfect glass and several other super lemonade inspired recipes for a perfect summer dish or sweetie! (As seen on EyeOpener TV) 

Beyonce may have made lemonade the spotlight on iTunes, this super summer time drink has long been the star of the summer for centuries. History says lemonade may have even been created by the Egyptians in as easy as the 14th century. However, taste buds for hundreds of years have kept this simple sipper of lemon, sugar, and water a #1 classic.

Lemonade-Recipes


But why stop at just lemonade to drink? Inspired by the delicious flavor of lemonade, we’ve put together a whole summer supper featuring lemonade. However, we wouldn’t suggest eating them all at one time; but a few of these will give you the taste of summer in every bite! 

But not all lemonade is the same. What’s the perfect combination to make it THE BEST? It’s an easy combination, but it starts with something called simple syrup!

Perfect Lemonade

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Perfect Lemonade


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

Great lemonade starts with simple syrup for this perfect lemonade recipe!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 gallon water
  • 2 cups lemon juice
  • Lemons, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Start off the simple syrup by adding 2 cups sugar and 2 cups water in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to boil over medium heat.
  3. Stir until the sugar dissolves and then remove from heat.
  4. Next add add simple syrup, gallon of water and fresh lemon juice to pitcher. Still well.
  5. Garnish with lemon slices.

Notes

  • Don’t use presqueezed lemonade! It’s much more bitter than you want for lemonade.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge


Lemonade-Chicken

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Lemonade Chicken


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

This lemonade-inspired chicken includes a lemon marinate and lemon batter for the perfect mix of lemon, crispy chicken made in the oven.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 5 chicken drumsticks
  • salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or seasoning salt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Mix half the lemon zest and the lemon juice in a large bowl.
  2. Add 1/2 cup water, sugar and whisk to dissolve.
  3. Add the buttermilk.
  4. Poke chicken fork and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Place in a plastic zipper bag.
  6. Add the marinade and refrigerate overnight.
  7. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  8. To batter the chicken: Mix panko, thyme, lemon zest, seasonings in a large resealable plastic bag.
  9. Shake to mix.
  10. In a bowl, add mayonnaise and roll chicken in mayo.
  11. Then add chicken to the bag and shake to coat.
  12. Spray the pan with cooking spray and to chicken.
  13. Bake until golden, about 35 minutes.
  14. Turn over and then bake until browned and crisp.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge


StrawberryLemonadePie

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Strawberry Lemonade Pie


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

A slice of this pie is the taste of summer with strawberries and lemonade! AND it only takes a few minutes to make!


Ingredients

Scale
  • Tub Whip Cream (in the tub)
  • 12 ounce can lemonade concentrate
  • 1 can condensed milk (12 ounces)
  • 1 cup strawberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • lemon and strawberries for garnish
  • Graham Cracker Crust (Purchase at the grocery store or made from scratch!)

Instructions

  1. in a blender, puree strawberries and sugar together until combined.
  2. With a mixer, combine the rest of the ingredients (except the crust) until blended.
  3. Poor lemonade mixture into crust.
  4. Poor strawberry mixture over lemonade mixture. Use a spoon or knife to swirl.
  5. Add crust top back to pie and then freeze overnight (or at least 8 hours.)
  6. Keep frozen until ready to serve.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge


 

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Lemon Lavender Cupcakes (Just like Magnolia Bakery)

September 21, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 44 Comments

Wish you could take a little bit of Magnolia home with you? With this copycat recipe for their signature Lemon Lavender Cupcakes you can!

A trip to Magnolia Market in Waco is like a checking off the ideal bucket list: a place for the perfect farm house decor, a destination for just enjoying the simple things with friends among the green space, and of course, a taste for the bestest cupcakes (like lemon lavender ones) from Magnolia Bakery.

Magnolia Cupakes


There’s a reason that thousands of people stand in line just for the chance to order and bite into a few delectable treats and walk through Joanna’s sweet design. While we were there we ordered one of each and we’re lucky to get the last lemon lavender cupcake left. 

Magnolia Cupakes

And each bite was absolutely perfect. 

Like each and every bite was better the one before it and you just kept wanting more as you glanced around panorama style at the Pinterest-perfect place they’ve built. 

When we returned from our one-day journey, we yearned for a little piece of Magnolia Market to have with us all the time. So we planted our own piece of gardening heaven complete with lavender in our own little wine barrel and have enjoyed it all summer-long. 

Magnolia-Herb-Garden (40 of 18)

And we also yearned for that lavender cupcake. 

So of course, with lots of lavender, logically I had a hundred reasons to make my own.

Unfortunately I had one BIG one that kept me from cranking them out…the recipe. 

Magnolia Cupakes

And while we all feel like Chip and Jo are our besties (and should be), she isn’t about to share that recipe (at least not yet.) 

So I had to take matters into my own hands and make up my own. 

Magnolia Cupakes

After a few different tries having to slave over cupcake batter and icing recipes (and an education on all things lavender), I came up with what I think is a good reproduction. So much so that we even found the cupcake wrappers to put them in. While my icing skills still could have a little more practice, I was able to shoot a few photos before quickly gobbling these up. 

Magnolia Cupakes

And it was a good gobble. 

It’s like sunshine, cream, summer goodness – in a cute little round package. 

However, there’s always harvesting that lavender to enjoy this cupcake well after autumn and winter has set in. 

So if you get a chance to go to Magnolia especially during this, go. If you can’t, this recipe might help you cope until you do (or make it a lot more fun to watch them on TV.) 

 

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Lemon Lavender Cupcake (Copycat Magnolia Bakery)


★★★★

4 from 1 reviews

  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
  • Yield: 12 1x
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Description

There’s nothing like this lemon lavender cupcake to make you and your mouth happy (just like a trip to Magnolia.)


Ingredients

Scale

Batter

  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tbsp edible lavender, dried (Make sure it’s edible. I love this one!)
  • 1 1/3 cups flour (preferably cake)
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract

Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon extract

Instructions

For batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a processor/blender, combine milk and lavender and pulse until blended. Set aside.
  3. In a bowl, combine dry batter ingredients (except sugar) until blended. Set aside.
  4. With mixer, combine butter and sugar until fluffy. Blend honey, then eggs, one at a time and lastly add vanilla and lemon. Slowly combine both wet and dry ingredients together, folding in the lavender mixture last, dispersing in the mixture.
  5. Pour into cupcake liners, filling 2/3 full. Back for 15 – 18 minutes until golden. Remove and allow to cool.

For Frosting

  1. Add butter and sugar together in a stand mixer, adding cream slowly until smooth.
  2. Then beat on high for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add lemon and beat again for another 1 minute to blend.
  4. Spread on cupcakes or use a piping bag to complete the charm.

Notes

  • Add lavender or lemon zest to the top of the icing for an added treat!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 432
  • Sugar: 38
  • Sodium: 123
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 16
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8
  • Trans Fat: 1
  • Carbohydrates: 49
  • Protein: 3
  • Cholesterol: 96

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

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Red, White and Blue: July 4th Treats

June 29, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Make a real bang on Independence Day with a fun spin on your party plans – red, white and blue July 4th treats!

* Affiliate links may be included.

July 4th is a great time to put a festive spin on your summer favorites with a little touch of the red, white and blue. Many of these you can make in advance the night before and be ready for a fun Fourth party without sitting in your kitchen slaving away on a Facebook-worthy spread! Bring on the July 4th Treats!

4th of July Treats

Cherry Berry Whip Salad


This salad is inspired by my absolute favorite treat growing up. Every summer get-together included “Pink Stuff” that actually was such an easy, no mess recipe it was hard to imagine that this was the dish that never had leftovers. I remember the first time I was “trusted” to create it, you would have thought I was given the right to carve the Thanksgiving turkey. Because it’s a no-cook dish, this dish is a perfect kid-starter cooking lesson! It just needs a little time in the fridge for the flavors to come together for this delicious flavor. And when you take a look at it, you instantly can see the red, white and blue.

Cherry whip

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Cherry Berry Whip


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

An easy sweet treat perfect to beat the heat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Cherry Berry Whip Salad
  • 1 can cherry pie filling (14 oz)
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 small can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 small can condensed milk
  • 2 cups small marshmallows
  • 1 small tub whip cream
  • 3 Tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Mix everything together but the marshmallows and blueberries into a bowl. Fold in marshmallows. Lastly, add blueberries to the top of the bowl (or if serving in smaller dishes, spring the blueberries on top). Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge


See how we made it here:

American Flag Fruit Kabob

Want to give the kids something to do? This is the ideal activity that turns into a healthy centerpiece of your July 4th event. Using a combination of strawberries, marshmallows and blueberries, create your own American flag! You can use a mixture of different fruits to match the red, white and blue theme; just make sure to wash your hands between fruit and marshmallow patterns so the juice doesn’t turn the marshmallows pink. Also adding a little space between alternating fruit and marshmallow will help keep your healthy snack look fresh throughout the day.

Kids don't like blueberries or Strawberries? Use Welch's Fruit Snacks Mixed Berry to use in place of the fruit to keep the patriotic theme!

Kids don’t like blueberries or Strawberries? Use Welch’s Fruit Snacks Mixed Berry to use in place of the fruit to keep the patriotic theme!

American Pie

This pie will be the star of your Independence Day festivities when you add this classic touch. While you can make it from scratch, cut your time in half by purchasing a two-pack of ready-made crusts. After that the sky in the limit!

Patriotic Pie

For mini-pies: Rolling out our dough, cut these adorable tartlets out with a star-shaped cookie cutter (I suggest buying a set like this), added a tablespoon of out of the can strawberry and blueberry pie filling, and then just pinched the ends with a fork. After 15 minutes in the oven at 350 degrees F, you have these sweet little hand pies perfect for a small bite of sweetness!

For the larger pie: If you are looking for the classic Americana pie, the formula couldn’t be easier! Use one pie crust, fill the pan with pie filling with either strawberry, blueberry, raspberry or cherry filling. With a smaller star-cookie cutter, cut out enough stars in the second dough to create a top crust. Put in the oven for 400 degrees F for around 20 minutes and you have a beautiful pie. Have more time? Then make this creamy homemade vanilla ice cream to serve with your pie for the perfect July 4th treat!

Layered Rice Crispy Treats

If pie is the unofficial American treat, then rice cereal treats probably claim the spot for #2. Made with rice cereal, marshmallows and butter, to create these unique twist, all you need to do is make 3 batches, adding red food coloring to one and blue to another. Then just layer the blue batch in the pan with your hands (sprayed with a little cooking spray to keep your hands from sticking.) Then repeat with the regular batch and last with the red batch. Allow the mixture to cool for at least an hour or overnight. Cut either into squares or if you have more time, then use that handy star-cutter for even more July 4th appropriate treats.

Layered Rice Treats

Strawberry Jello Fireworks

These little firecrackers will make your party a real blast – with the kids or the adults. Using hulled-out strawberries, you’ll fill first with a blue jello/gelatin mixture and allow to set before adding our white layer of milk and gelatin. After another session in the fridge, pull out the strawberries and cut in half longwise to reveal the layered jello effect for these cool, bite-sized red, white and blue sweeties. Want to really kick up the party? Add some spirits like vodka or rum to the gelatin for a fun edible adult snack.

Strawberry Jello Bites

Red, White and Blue Berry Sangria

Sangria is always a crowd pleaser for any occasion, but using star-shaped fruit and red/blue berries, this white themed sangria is the most festive way to wash down all these treats. We’ve used a chardonnay, sparkling wine, and for the color, blackberries and raspberries to change it up. However, you can use your own combinations of red and blue berries. For the stars, using your trusty star cutter, punch out stars from either pineapple or apple (either pairs nicely with this white sangria mixture.) If you prefer, use this same concept for an infused-water in a big jug, you’ll just use water instead of the wine to create a fruit-hinted refreshment that will be beautiful all day long.

Red, White and Blue Sangria
Have a great Fourth of July!Don't miss Patriotism

Cool it with the Hottest Coolers

July 21, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Summer is hot, but your food and fun shouldn’t be! Here’s how to to Cool it with the Hottest Coolers. Affiliate links may apply. 

“It’s summer time”….(cue the Will Smith…)

With summer approaches hot times with fun activities that require you to keep your drinks and food cool while you hang with the heat. Whether you’re throwing a party, going camping or just roadtripping for a few days, these coolers definitely will take your ice chest to the next level.


Coleman // 54 Quart Steel Belted Cooler
$149.99

 

Coleman

Looks like the original steel-belted coolers of your grandparents’ days, but with today’s technologies. This stainless steel baby holds 85 cans, has rubber grip handles for easy carrying and comes with a solid steel latch seals it completely. Rust resistant with easy to clean base, lid and liner, this is the kind of cooler that will make you feel like you are ready for battle.

[Tweet “What’s the key to loading an ice chest? 2:1 ice to contents AND put the drinks in first! “]

YETI // Tundra
$399.99

Yeti

Austin-based YETI coolers have taken the cooler market to new heights! The Tundra coolers are built from the same process that premium kayaks are made from. It’s a process called roto-molding and the end result is a beyond durable cooler that will last for years. However, it’s the Fat Wall design – extra thick walls that include 2” of insulation all around that allow the YEIT to hold ice for days..and days…and days. If you check out their website, you’ll see every outdoorsman of every type is committed to the YETI and if you bring it to a party, better keep your eye on because someone will want it! Other features include non-slip feet, easy drain system and comfortable carrying options. YETI started with hard sided coolers, but now offers soft sided coolers and a whole line of drinkware….so something for everything!

Igloo // Party Bar Cooler
$199 – $249.99

igloo-studio-threeqrts-full

The folks at Texas-based Igloo definitely know a thing or two about keeping it cool, and their new Party Bar cooler powered by LiddUp is bound to take even the coolest parties. When darkness falls, the exclusive LiddUp® LED light system emits a cool glow that both sets the party mood and illuminates the cooler’s contents—letting thirsty guests find what they want quickly. The Party Bar effortlessly rolls your drinks from the pantry to the party on locking casters. Or if you prefer a more classic look, remove the Party Bar from its base for use it as a standard ice chest. With a built-in bottle opener with Catch bin to removable drink dividers and wine caddy to the convenient utility loops and removable lid…The Party Bar comes equipped with all the essentials you need to easily pick your poison, pop the top and party on.

Coolest Cooler // The Coolest Cooler
$299.00
TheCoolestCooler
Seting a Kickstarter record for the most-funded campaign ($13.3 million), The Coolest Cooler is just a presale away. Just check out what your under $500 purchase makes.

  • High-performance Blender
  • Outdoor BlueTooth Speaker with Party Pairing®
  • USB Charger
  • LED Lid Light
  • Cooler Divider / Cutting board
  • Bottle Opener
  • Done in One™ Tie-down bungee cord
  • 20V Rechargeable Lithium Battery
  • Accessory Deck
  • Ergonomic Design Built to Last

Keep it Cool this Summer!

Summertime Recipes with Strawberries, Lemons and Avocados, Oh My!

May 29, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Nothing says summer more like strawberries. And a few lemons and avocados make a nice complement as well. (Can you say guacamole?) 


So with June just on the horizon, we played ode to the summer today on Good Morning Texas featuring the unofficial fruits of summer (yes, these are all fruits!)


STRAWBERRY COLADA CAKE

Inspired by http://www.aspicyperspective.com/2010/05/farmstand-fresh.html

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened 
2 cups sugar 
3 eggs 
3 Tb. lemon juice, divided 
zest of 1 lemon 
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided 
½ tsp. baking soda 
½ tsp. salt 8 oz. Greek yogurt, plain 
12 oz. fresh strawberries, diced 
1 cup powdered sugar 
2 Tb. of cream of coconut 
¼ c. shredded coconut 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease and flour a 10 inch Bundt pan.  

Sift together the 2 ¼ cups of flour, baking soda and salt. Mix in the lemon zest and set aside. 

With an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 Tb. lemon juice. Alternate beating in the flour mixture and the yogurt, mixing just until incorporated. Toss the strawberries with the remaining ¼ cup of flour. Gently mix them into the batter. 

Pour the batter into the Bundt pan. Place in the oven and reduce the temperature to 325 degrees F. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. 

Allow to cool at least 20 minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely. Once cooled, whisk together the remaining 2 Tb. of lemon juice and the powdered sugar with cream of coconut. Drizzle over the top of the cake and sprinkle coconut as desired.

STRAWBERRY JALAPENO SALSA

15-20 strawberries, chopped 
1/3 medium red onion 
Handful of cilantro, chopped 
1 Jalapeno, finely minced 
Juice of fresh lime 

Mix everything in a bowl. Chill until ready to serve. Serve with tortilla chips or cinnamon chips. 

* Cinnamon chips can be made easily in the oven! Broil several flour tortillas sprayed with cooking spray and cut into 8 triangles (use a pizza cutter to cut several easily)until brown. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar to the chips.


Strawberry salad with avocado and bacon vinaigrette

6 cups spinach, kale or greens mix 
2 cups sliced strawberries 
1 ripe avocado, sliced
Crumbled bleu cheese (optional)

 

8 slices bacon, diced

3 tablespoons stone ground mustard

2 tablespoons honey

3 cloves chopped garlic

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

 

Place salad, strawberries and avocado into a large bowl and set aside.

For the dressing, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon from pan, set aside and crumble. Add mustard, honey, garlic, and salt and pepper to the pan with the bacon dripping. Combine well with a whisk. Whisk apple cider vinegar into the pan. Continue to whisk until the vinaigrette has thickened slightly. 

Allow to cool slightly before adding to salad. Add bleu cheese crumbles (optional.)

Now it’s time to find a recipe for a strawberry mojito! 

Make Your Own Fireworks Fun with Monthly Kids Craft Program Kiwi Crate

July 3, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 5 Comments

I received a free product for the purposes of the review. No compensation was provided. All the comments are my own. 

Are you one of those moms that is totally crafty and makes all kinds of cute things for the holidays and then posts a how-to video on YouTube? 

 

Well I’m so excited you are,  because I’m not. I wish I was, but at this juncture in life all I can say is Thank goodness for Pinterest! 

And thank goodness for Kiwi Crate! Launched in 2011 by executives from eBay, PayPal, YouTube and BabyCenter, Kiwi Crate sends you fun, hands-on projects for kids ages 3-7 
monthly.  Kiwi Crate’s arts, crafts and science projects are developed by parents, reviewed by child development experts and tested by kids.  Projects are created around themes like gardens, space or colors, and designed to encourage creativity, exploration and discovery and conveniently in this cute little box. 


I was so happy to share craft time with son when all the thinking was out of it with my Rocket Party Pack from Kiwi Crate. Celebrating Independence Day, the simple packet gave us everything we needed to make 10 rockets that my kiddo could blast off in the air by just blowing on the straw. Best of all, I didn’t have to research a craft idea, get all the materials together and figure out how to do it. It was all in the box and we just opened it and went straight to having fun! 


 
Kiwi Crate has received multiple awards honoring quality and creativity, including a Gold Seal Best Toy Award from Stephanie Oppenheim’s prestigious Toy Portfolio, the Parents’ Choice Gold Award, and Academic’s Choice award. Kiwi Crate was also named by Dr. Toy as a “Ten Best Creative Product” and “100 Best Children’s Products” of 2012.

Kiwi Crate’s monthly subscription service available at www.kiwicrate.com, starts at $16.95 per month with free shipping.  Kiwi Crate also offers single crates available without a subscription for $19.95 each; as well as party favors and activities, starting at $5 each at www.kiwicrate.com/shop.  Additionally, Kiwi Crate offers a collection of over 1,500 free hands-on project ideas at www.kiwicrate.com/diy.

Go Red, White and Blue with Kenny’s Blue Cheese Potato Salad {Recipe}

June 28, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Food Fridays:

One of the great things about my job is that I get to work with some pretty amazing chefs and restaurants. This means most the time I’ve gotten to sample their menu or at least several different offerings. However, it doesn’t mean that I’ve tasted it all. So this week I was elated to finally get my hands on menu items I’ve described at Kenny’s Smoke House, in Plano but never had my taste buds get in on the fun. 

I will admit – BBQ is not my first food pick. I can enjoy it, but I don’t normally crave for it. But my hubs does, so we make our rounds to the BBQ joints. But I will tell you that after biting into one of the juicy brisket slices, I was pretty well on my way to BBQ heaven. It was good, flavorful, juicy and just the perfect amount of fat and meat. And it smelled SO good. 


But I had to move on to try more- the smoked turkey. Unfortunately by the time I got to the turkey, there wasn’t any left. (I had two kiddos chow down and finish it in a matter of minutes.) While I was dissapointed, I still had one more thing to bite into – Blue Cheese Potato Salad. 



A great play on the classic recipe, this was my kind of potato salad, featuring the pungent flavor of blue cheese, bacon and red potatoes. Just looking at the bowl, it screamed “this is July 4th.”  And did I mention I took down the whole bowl? 

So using my “insider connections,” I was able to get the recipe. Which is good because I needed to make more of this stuff and being that next week is Independence Day, now was the perfect time. And now I’m sharing it with you. 


Kenny’s Smoke House Blue Cheese Potato Salad

4 Lbs Red Skin Potatoes (Chopped, 1/2 Inch)
2-1/2 Cups Blue Cheese Dressing (Favorite)
1 Tsp Salt
1 Tbs White Sugar
Pinch Cayenne Pepper
2 Tbs White Vinegar
1 Cup Bacon, Cooked, Chopped
1 Cup Blue Cheese Crumbles

Place cut potatoes in boiling water and boil until soft (approx 15 minutes).

Drain potatoes and let cool.

In a separate bowl, combine all other ingredients except bacon and blue cheese to make dressing. Mix well with whisk.

When potatoes have cooled to where they can be touched (still warm) combine with dressing and mix well. Crush some potatoes so that it comes together and is not too soupy.

Refrigerate until chilled.

Garnish with bacon and blue cheese.

Enjoy! 

Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

Get 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... http://www.mamachallenge.com/about/

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

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

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

🍹 Swift n ‘Swigs @arlingtonmuseum 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get link in my stories for this special deal!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HBD, #BigTex - we enjoyed it!

🎡 🌮 🌯🍗🍩

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

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

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

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

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

This is what #TacoTuesday was made for.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

➡️ See #Minions #TheRiseOfGru only in theaters TODAY! 

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

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

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

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

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

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

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