Holidays Archives - Page 21 of 25 - mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents

Secret Trick to Peanut Butter Fudge {Recipe}

December 21, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Food Fridays:

A holiday tradition in our home is the making of the Peanut Butter Fudge. I felt it was such a momentous occasion I even shared it with my Junior League anniversary cookbook a few years ago…too bad when I submitted the recipe, I forgot one ingredient. Can you guess what it was?

Yes, it was the peanut butter! Worst of all, I didn’t notice until the NEXT year when I used the recipe to make sure I was forgetting anything and saw I left out the most important part. Thankfully, I did include the substitute just in case someone wanted to make normal chococlate fudge.

However, since I’ve been asked about this recipe for many years (which is actually not mine, but my mother-in-law’s as I explain in the cookbook), I thought I’d share with you as well.

It’s quick, it’s easy and as long as you don’t forget the one cup of peanut butter (LOL), it’s amazing. It’s perfect, cheap and quick to make for neighbor gifts and more!

Fill Their Holiday Stockings with These 5 Stuffers

December 19, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Wow Mom Wednesdays:

At a recent holiday mommy get-together, the question of “What do you put in your stocking?” became a big topic of discussion. With a few days until the Christmas morning production, I thought I’d share some of the coolest finds I found for stockings this year for kids of all ages!

Holiday Specs

As one of our annual traditions, our family puts on our pjs, packs up the car with treats and hot chocolate to go look at holiday lights while we listen to holiday music. This year I added a new part to our holiday fun – these cool HOLIDAY Specs and they loved them! For under $5 a pair, you can watch as the special holographic lenses create beautiful 3-D images with colorful shapes like angels, reindeer, snowmen, Christmas trees and more. These are perfect for holiday light watching or even just enjoying the lights on your Christmas tree!

$5 at http://www.holidayspecs.com.

Guggenheim Doodletop

Stockings are full of fun games, candy and toys and this is a great way one that can keep them busy for hours. This unique top-bearing the Guggenheim name is a toy that makes art. Spin the top on paper to create spirals and patterns. Five replaceable color markers are included, so colors may be easily interchanged so your van Gogh can create a masterpiece with a turn of a top.

$10.95 at http://www.guggenheimstore.org.

Brush Poppin’ Buddies Toothbrush

Teeth-brushing time is still a chore in our household, so a fun toothbrush is normally a good way to get him motivated to brush his teeth and often. That’s where the Brushbuddy is going to play a main part in this year’s stocking. Available in five different animal designs (frog, vow, lion, tiger or elephant), with a push of a button, this compact toothbrush head pops up for a little hygiene fun.

$5.99 at http://www.brushbuddies.com/poppin

Eco Princess Makeup

I still remember some of my favorite makeup products growing up were in my stocking (you know you remember the Bonne Bell lip glosses!) However, now that I’m a little older and have a little girl of my own, I’m a little more conscious of the stuff I’m putting on my skin and one day, on hers. That’s why I loved this cute little 100% natural Eco Princess Makeup set. Made by a mom, the sulfate-free, paraben-free, gluten-free and vegan set includes two mineral eye shadows, a mineral blush, shimmer lip balm, and a water-based nailpolish all in a cute little bag.

$24.99 at http://www.organicbeautynow.com

Fun by Lush

The name of this stuff says it all – FUN. While it was made for adults, it looks like play-doh and serves as a natural, colorful shampoo and body wash. Best of all, you can let them play with it or you can take the leftovers and use it for a little soak in the tub.

$6.95 at http://www.Lush.com or at local Lush stores in DFW

Looking for more holiday gift ideas, then check out my HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE for everyone on your list!

DISCLAIMER:

I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

Last-minute Gifts for Your Tech Tot, Teen or In-Between

December 18, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Tech Tuesdays:

It’s hard to imagine this time next week, all the work you’ve taken to carefully select the right item for the right person and then wrap it up beautifully under the Christmas tree will be sitting in a pile of trash after Christmas morning. However, like many people I know the tree is still bare and last-minute shopping is in high gear as those not done (or started) with their list clamor for the shopping centers or online in hopes to have something in hand when they show up for Christmas.

To make things a little easier for finding the right thing for that special person on your list, I’ve put together a few last-minute items that can still be found online or on shelves for the kiddo with the avid imagination, the bigger kid thill-seeker or the next Van Gogh. While developed with kids in mind, some of these are cool enough your “big kids” (or even mom and dad) will want to get their hands on them. And like many gifts now available, each one has a tech capability, so everyone can share their fun and imagination when you attach it to your computer.

For the Adventurer (in the making with an avid imagination):

NERF Nightvision Camcorder, Ages 5-9

I was so excited with this camcorder, I almost had to wrap it up and put my name on it. NERF has combined the world of toys and technology to create the perfect gift with a night-vision camcorder that not only allows you to see up to 50 feet in the dark, but records video with 4x magnification. Best of all, you can store those magic adventures with the SD memory card slot or with the USB port to plug into your family computer. Known of its durability, the Nerf Nightvision Camcorder includes a carry strap, removable lens cover and several button options to capture his/her latest adventure.

At just about one 1 lb., your little one can pick it up, but your big kids will be grabbing for NERF Nightvision Camcorder, especially on Christmas Eve to spot Santa in the act. (Perhaps this is what Santa should be bringing instead.)

SRP: $89.99 – Toys “R” Us, on sale for around $75 at Amazon.com

For the Thrill Seeker – skateboarder, snow ski enthusiast, biker:

Action Shot Camera, Ages 8 and above

Next to a helmet, this is the second thing your thrill-seeker should have – the Action Shot Camera. With the ‘Click & Grip’ mounting system, mount this small camera onto helmets, bike handlebars, skateboards and more and to record those “wow moments” they’ll want to share less with you and more with their friends. Includes a helmet mount, adhesive mount, protective or mounting case, USB connection and editing software is included with the camera as well as 128MB of on-board memory, MicroSD card slot to add more memory. With the digital capabilities of video – VGA resolution (640×480) at 30 frames per second, QVGA resolution (320×240) at 60 frames per second, photos- 640×380 resolution. In a nutshell, they can get some great shots, but they won’t necessarily be able to display them on ESPN.

Thankfully, now with the Action Shot Camera they won’t try to use their smart phone and use both hands on the adrenaline-rush of the day.

SRP: $59.99 – On sale on Toys “R” Us for $34.99, Amazon.com

For the Illustrator, Artist or Photography Nut:

EasyPen i405XE, KYA, Ages 12 and above

Another item that this mom was reluctant to wrap up and put under the tree for someone else is the EasyPen i405XE from Genius Tablet. Ideal for anyone already with an artistic inclination and a computer, this plug-and-play digital art studio allows artists and photography nuts to create their own drawings and add their own creative touches to existing pictures with the ease of a cordless pen. The tablet attachment includes a wide selection of brushes, paints, pens and paper textures to allow the user to add unique touches to photos, scrapbooks, paintings, etc. and includes Corel Painter Essentials 4, one of the leading graphic software on the market today.

The only limitations of the Genius Tablet is what can be created by the person holding the cordless pen.

SRP: $59.99 (but on sale for less than $50 on Amazon.com right now.)

If you’re still looking for the RIGHT present for the right person, make sure to take a look at my HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!

DISCLAIMER:

Looking Forward to 2013: Look Fab While Getting Fit with pvBody

December 17, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Me Mondays:

I’m excited to report that everyone on my Christmas list is checked off! However, when you are the gift buyer, you also are normally the one who doesn’t get a lot of gifts. However, I decided that there was one thing I really wanted (and needed) since next month I’ll kick my body and this blog into health and fitness central… it was time to replace the workout gear of yesteryear…(and you know what I’m talking about!)

Ever wondered when you’re hitting the stair climber or dying in spin class how come that gal across from you always has the cutest workout gear and you still sit in the same black and gray sweats from college? If that’s not enough to make you stay at home, at least the need to work off two children (and then some) normally motivates me to at least go. But looking cute while trying to get to my “cute” is hard although it is one of the tips fitness experts tell you to do so you can stick with your fitness goals.

Unfortunately, even when you’re buying at discount stores the magic of spandex doesn’t come cheap and time to shop comes at an even greater cost. But thankfully, has made looking good while you workout actually something possible and even easier than going shopping!

How does it work?

Take the quick quiz and create a personal pv.body style profile.
Our experts will put together a personalized outfit for you (from some of the best fitness apparel companies like lululemon – one of my favorites) and at their special price of $49.95.
Then they ship your outfit to your door for free each month!

It is that easy and just like Christmas, there was a nice little box sitting on my doorstep with a lovely outfit inside, based on my size, color and the kind of gear I was looking for (not quite there with the boy shorts, but soon.) Now isn’t that so much more ~~carpool~~ workout appropriate?

Wondering what your box might have in it, then check out this video about what your box of goodies could look like once you take the profile test.

Best of all, just in time for the holidays, they are giving my readers a special little holiday gift, too!

Just for you:

A little special for you just when you need it most: gets you a $15 Lululemon gift card, plus 25% off your first month subscription.

More about :

Easy peasy lemon squeezy: pvBody is easy. Take the quiz, sign up and boom, an awesome package arrives at your door each month with a hand picked outfit for you!

Every outfit is styled just for you by a pvBody expert. Each month you receive an outfit worth $150, but you pay just $49.95. You’re getting great, quality pieces for a fraction of the retail cost thanks to the relationships pvBody has built.

pvBody is not just another clothing company, but a lifestyle brand. Their blog is a great place to check out tips and tricks for healthy, delicious meals and at home workouts.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of pv.body. The opinions and text are all mine.

Flyaway This Christmas with Girlfriend Wine Cocktails {Recipes}

December 14, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">Food Fridays:

I love the holidays for many reasons, but the opportunity to get together with friends (and enjoy festive drinks like hot mulled cider and eggnog) happens to be close to the top. Unfortunately, by the time you actually get to Christmas, you might be all holiday’d out with the wine, cider and eggnog.

However, when a lovely delivery of new wines called Butterfly Kiss by Jason Dade arrived on my doorstep and could actually be used to create some new fun “signature” cocktails for an upcoming girls’ get together, I was pretty stoked to try them out. I was also excited to use with my marshmallow-flavored vodka gathering dust.

So to celebrate Friday and the holidays here are a few cocktail recipes for you to try with your girls using Butterfly Kiss Pinot Grigio or Pink Pinot Grigio (which I’m personally excited to taste!) Of course you can use any of your favorite wine varietals, but Butterfly Kiss was used specifically to create the perfect cocktail flavor.

The Puffy Cloud

3 oz Butterfly Kiss Pinot Grigio

½ oz Smirnoff Fluffed Marshmallow flavored vodka

1 oz Sour mix

Spl. Tonic water

Garnish: Lime wedge

Build in a wine glass over ice. Stir.

Spring Azure

4 oz Butterfly Kiss Pinot Grigio

3 oz Ginger ale

1½ oz Apple juice

2 Lime wedges

Garnish: Orange Wheel

Build in a wine glass over ice. Squeeze lime wedges on top. Stir.

Love Potion Sangria

1 btl. Butterfly Kiss Pinot Grigio

4 oz Tanqueray gin

16 oz White grape juice

8 oz Ruby red grapefruit juice

12 oz Lemon-lime soda

4 oz Sour mix

7 dshs Aromatic cocktail bitters

Garnish: Green and red seedless grapes

Build in a pitcher over ice. Serves 8.

Afternoon Delight

4 oz Butterfly Kiss Pink Pinot Grigio

3 oz Cranberry juice

1½ oz Soda water

Garnish: Grapefruit wedge

Build in a wine glass over ice. Stir.

Parisian Affair

3 oz Butterfly Kiss Pink Pinot Grigio

¼ oz French herbal liquer

¼ oz Italian orange aperitif

½ oz Fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 oz Soda water

3dsh. Orange bitters

Garnish: Lemon peel

Build in a glass over ice. Stir.

Lively Up

3 oz Butterfly Kiss Pink Pinot Grigio

½ oz Black raspberry liqueur

1½ oz Sour mix

Spl. Lemon-lime soda

Garnish: Cherry

Build in a wine glass over ice. Stir.

Tropical Escape

4 oz Butterfly Kiss Chardonnay

3 oz Lemon-lime soda

1½ oz Pineapple juice

Garnish: Lime wedge

Build in a wine glass over ice. Stir.

Wonder Kiss

3 oz Butterfly Kiss Chardonnay

½ oz Smirnoff vanilla flavored vodka

1 oz Sour mix

Spl. Cola

Garnish: Cherry

Build in a wine glass over ice. Stir.

Butterfly Kiss is a new wine, so it is soon to be found
wherever you purchase your wine and spirits.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Clink. Clink! Clink!

* Printed with permission by Butterfly Kiss.

DISCLAIMER:

Me Mondays:

My “Me Monday” is all about checking off my holiday to-do list and perhaps thinking a little bigger – giving. Christmas is all about giving. So this Christmas consider not just giving a gift, but making a bigger impact with the gifts that you give. Here’s a great list of how you can make a difference by just buying a gift, creating your holiday cards or just searching for gifts online.

GIFTS

World Vision Gift Catalog | http://www.worldvisiongifts.org

The WorldVision Gift Catalog allows you to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. With the tagline, “Give a gift. Change a Life,” 86% of ever gift goes to programs helping children and families overcome poverty in nearly 100 countries. As easy as thumbing through your Pottery Barn catalog, you can choose to make a specific donation for a specific cause like hunger, clean water, and medical attention for someone in need – like purchasing two goats and a cow to help a family be more self-sufficient to buying toys for children in a village.

Also, for those looking for something to give in honor of your donation, you can make a financial contribution, by selecting one of 36 Maximum Impact items that can be given to a loved one and at the same time help a person in need. And the items are as unique as the donations like an Artisan Beaded Necklace, a homemade, glass-bead necklace from Thailand. However, the work of WorldVision and their need doesn’t end at Christmas, so visit their Facebook to learn more about this prolific Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential.

Impact Foods | http://www.impactfoods.com

Inspired by the growing movement of Conscious Capitalism (think Tom’s Shoes), Ben Hurt and Blaine Iler endeavored to create a business that could change the world. So Dallas-based Impact Foods was born with a simple, but prolific concept: for every bag they sell, a hungry child is fed.

While making it that easy to make an “impact” on someone else’s life is enough to eat another bowl of cereal, Impact Foods, an official partner of the World Food Program, they’ve upped the ante this December by feeding two children for every bag sold. With all-natural ingredients, whole grains, no fructose syrup and flavors like vanilla, maple oat and blueberry honey, when you pour it in a bowl, it’s just like it came out of the oven. So this year, if you’re a little short of time and creativity, consider a little Impact Foods in a pretty jar or bag with a spoon and a nice bowl for a neighbor, fitness friend or the gals at work. They’ll be happy and you’ll done your good deed that might score you a few more points on Santa’s list. Get your bags of Impact Foods at Amazon, Whole Foods as well as many places in DFW.

Fresh Cup of Hope | http://www.freshcupofhope.com

Coffee baskets are one of the most purchased (and enjoyed) holiday gifts. Consider this holiday not only to give your obligatory coffee basket, but also to “make a difference, one cup at a time.” Because The Fresh Cup of Hope Cofee Co. works directly with the farmers and the principles of Fair Trade, they are ensuring that the farm they work with is self-sustaining and the lives of the workers are being improved with housing, better nutrition and overall health, tutors for the children and pastors who work directly with them. It’s amazing that something as simple as your choice in coffee can make a large, measurable difference in the lives of others, so consider pairing a bag of Jamaican Me Crazy, Cinnamon Pecan Brownie or Snickerdoodle with a $1 coffee cup from the Dollar Tree for a small gift that does big things.

HOLIDAY CARDS

Cardraising Greeting Card Fundraising | http://www.cardraising.com

Every year my mantle is full of Christmas cards from family and friends. Consider that each one of those cards sent could have also gone to help other organizations like your local school, church or even your child’s sporting team. That’s exactly what Cardraising does. Last year best friends Derek Sparta and Emil Jorge decided to create a sustainable business that could afford to give back 30% of its revenues to help others, so they developed Cardraising to help other organizations prosper when you create your holiday cards, birth or graduation announcements. While it’s still a growing business and 2012 is out for your organization to apply for the opportunity to participate, you can still pick out a lovely holiday card design that can benefit your preferred organization like Dallas-based Communities Foundation of Texas, one of the nation’s largest community foundations, in terms of total assets, gifts received and grants awarded.

ONLINE SEARCH

Save1 | http://save1.com

Save1 makes it even easier to make a difference, just by searching online for deals and discounts. Each time you use one of our coupons or special deals to save money, they use a portion of their commission to provide a nutritious meal for a hungry child. With 90,713 already purchased, they save you money and then they buy food for others (by doing what you are doing online to buy your gifts, anyways!) So consider using http://www.save1.com for your holiday shopping this year and while you are at it, you can buy a meal for someone else.

See what good you can do by just doing what you are already going to do this holiday.

DISCLAIMER:

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