mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

Thanksgiving Pairings for Everything

By Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving isn’t just primetime for turkey, it’s time for wine, too! With so many dishes to enjoy in one meal, here’s a guide for winin’ and dinin’ for Thanksgiving Pairings from Messina Hof.

It’s not everyday that you get invited (again) for a private wine tasting with the owners of the most-awarded winery in Texas, so when it happens, you say yes (again.) 

Thanksgiving Messina Hof

Pulling up to the Main Street in Grapevine, I was all smiles (and a little bit of anxiety) to spend the afternoon with my mom getting to know Paul and Karen Bonarrigo, the other half-owners of Messina Hof. The couple hails from the 40-year-old Messina Hof legacy began by Paul Vincent and Merrill Bonarrigo in Bryan, Texas, which has expanded to produce 130,000 gallons per year and the leader in the Texas wine industry. Paul also is the president-elect of the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association (TWGGA), so to say this “pairing” knows wine is an understatement. 


Thanksgiving Messina Hof

Thanksgiving Messina Hof

However, about two seconds together, as the first ounce hit the bottom of the glass, it seemed like four old friends were catching up as we enjoyed several of the newly released wines. But that’s exactly the best way to describe Messina Hof – and it’s line up of more than 90 wines from 30 varietals – you can taste the family and tradition that has made it the name it is today. And each taste we enjoyed took on a new taste, but with a familiar feeling you just wanted to continue to enjoy. 

Thanksgiving Messina Hof

So just in time for Thanksgiving, an event heralded for spending time with great food, great friends, and great family, there’s no better winemaker than Messina Hof to help you pair with the dishes you’ll have around the table. From turkey, to green bean casserole, and even your cranberry sauce, there’s Texas’ own Messina Hof to pair perfectly. 

TurkeyTouchdown

Thanksgiving Pairings

Holiday foods are usually bigger than life – big flavors, heavy textures, rich ingredients, and lots of herbs and spices. Those complex dishes make for dynamic wine pairings that can flex in different directions. Plus, your guests will have different palates and will enjoy different elements of dishes. So, have multiple wines available for sampling.

ROASTED TURKEY

 Gewürztraminer

 Dry Riesling

 Tempranillo

 

FRIED TURKEY

 Sparkling Brut

 Pinot Grigio

 Pinot Noir

 

Thanksgiving Messina Hof

BROWN SUGAR GLAZED TURKEY

 Gewürztraminer

 Beau

 Dry Riesling

 

STUFFING

 Chardonnay

 Merlot

 Sagrantino

 Jimmy-Dean-Stuffing-Cups2

CRANBERRY SAUCE

 Grenache Rosé

 Viognier

 Pinot Noir

 

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

 Sauvignon Blanc

 Cabernet Sauvignon

 Primitivo

 
Thanksgiving Messina Hof

PECAN PIE

 Tawny Port

 Solera Sherry

 Paulo Port

 

PUMPKIN PIE

 Sparkling Moscato

 Angel Riesling, Late Harvest

 Port

 

COLOR CODE:

 Dry White or Rosé

 Semi-Sweet/Dry Wine

 Dry Red

 Dessert Wine

 

TurkeyTortillaSoup

Super Summer Supper: Lemonade Inspired Recipes

By 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

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Perfect Lemonade

  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
Print Recipe

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.

Lemonade-Chicken

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemonade Chicken

  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
Print Recipe

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.

StrawberryLemonadePie

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Strawberry Lemonade Pie

  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
Print Recipe

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.

 

Don’t miss this #mamachallenge moment:
Watermelon-Blue-Cheesepin

Peach-and-Proscuitto-Salad-MamaChallenge

 

Mother’s Day Made Easy

By Leave a Comment

Think getting something mom wants for Mother’s Day is hard? Take it from this mama, you don’t have to work too hard (or pay too much) to get her something she’ll really want.

Thanks to JCPenney for making it easy with this sponsored post.

As mamas we actually don’t expect much. We’re actually kinda used to it (as experienced at Christmas as most of the gifts under the tree are researched, purchased and wrapped by us.) But at Mother’s Day, we do (no matter what we say) kinda want a little something.

Mothers-Day-JCPenney


While we’ve taught you that it’s the thought that counts (and believe me you score points when you do), it’s nice that it’s not always something that we’d like to have too. Now there’s plenty of things we need (ask any mom and even though she swears there’s nothing she wants, she has a list somewhere.)

Mother’s Day Gift Tip: Head to her Pinterest for great gift ideas she’s secretly thinking about.

While most moms will be happy with a card, a craft or even a hug, kiss or a phone call… it doesn’t hurt to give her something she’s gonna love. For me, after moving, I’ll be honest, my list is SOOOO long.

  • I need stuff for the house.
  • I need new summer sandals (to replace all the ones I threw away because they were so old my kids had never seen some of them.)
  • I always need a new handbag (because Mom’s handbag is really everyone’s tote, right?)
  • I need new clothes (new season means a new reason, right)

And well you get the picture.

On a recent trip to Pasadena for Mom 2.0, I wanted to get a few staples that could go in a suitcase without the worry of too many wrinkles, that also felt good for a morning meeting or an evening out. Unfortunately, I had about 30 minutes to do a spring through JCPenney.

Mothers-Day-JCPenney

But honestly, in my 20 minutes I found a Liz Claiborne clutch that doubled as a charging station (huge for a conference where everyone is taking photos and video), Liz Claiborne summer white jeans, and a Worthington mushroom taupe tunic (channeling my inner JLO) for the trip. The beautiful flowing top was forgiving in all the right places, but had just enough flair to show a little bit of skin and a little bit of spunk. Plus I was able to grab a bottle of dry shampoo too. All on one floor. All in 20 minutes. All at JCPenney.

Mothers-Day-JCPenney

I found a lot more too (including some adorable Mommy & Me matching dresses) that I would be bringing me after the trip. So see if you think that it’s going to take awhile to find her a gift, you don’t have to work that hard. Plus with some gifts including a set of pearls already boxed to give for just $10, you’re taking longer thinking about it then just going, buying, and then giving.

Here are a few picks of what I purchased that also doubled as good buys for summer travel. But with so much at JCPenney Mother’s Day, check out the flier  to really save yourself some time and give you a few ideas.)

And if you’d heed your own mama’s advice, you know she’d prefer you be smart with your time and your money. And listening to your mama always makes her happy, right?

Now you have time to take her to brunch too 🙂

Make Mother’s Day a Charming Tradition

By 13 Comments

Don’t just celebrate Mother’s Day, make it a charming tradition to look forward with something just for you and her. #MyJamesAvery

Thank you to James Avery for this special Mother’s Day offer and this sponsored post. 

Mother’s Day. 

It’s normally a day that people send flowers or take mom to brunch or make a card or sometimes just let her not do anything. 


James-Avery-Mothers-Day

While those are all things I love (who doesn’t), this year I wanted it to be different. I wanted it to be a day that I didn’t just look forward to, but my daughter, who possibly, hopefully, will have a daughter of her own, will look forward to as well…a new family tradition. 

As a storyteller, my whole life and everything around it, what I wear, what’s in my house, the music I listen to, all have an experience attached to them. My life is much like a charm bracelet, where each small, delicate charm signifies a milestone, big or small, that makes my life what it has become. 

My baby girl is definitely one of the biggest milestones I’ve ever had. 

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

“It’s a girl,” the Dr. showed me on the sonogram more than six years ago. 

And then it happened. 

All the color just went away from my face and the flood of emotion took over my whole body. 

From the moment I found out I had a daughter on the way, I’ve experienced an overwhelming responsibility to not just be her mother, but the female role model in her life that, God willing, will make her strong, proud, kind, smart, independent and all those other amazing qualities you want your daughter to possess. 

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

While it’s been quite the journey and I’m sure with her vivacious sense of life, it will always been an adventure, I wanted to share something with her. Something that would continue to tell my story and something that she could have; to begin telling her story, too. 

So one warm Sunday, we put on our girl dresses. She even snuck on a little bit (too much) lipstick, but she was so proud I didn’t make her take it off and headed for our girl day. On our way, we listened to our favorite girl songs a little too loud. And we headed to James Avery. 

James Avery is a family-owned, Texas-born, Texas-based jeweler based in Kerrville that began more than 50 years ago. Started on family and faith, the jeweler offers more than 1,100 designs and has more than 14,000 separate jewelry items in the product line. 

“I strive to keep designs from being contrived, cluttered or cute. The challenge is to keep things simple.” James Avery

Her first time in a fancy jewelry store, my heart immediately began to swell after I told her to “go find her favorite.”  Her instructions were that she could find her favorite charm and I would find one to give to her as the beginning of her charm bracelet to have one day.  At 6 years old a nice piece like James Avery was a little much to wear to school, but ok for those special occasions. Until then, I’d wear it.

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

And then the story changed a little: James Avery was running a Mother’s Day special offering a free bracelet (or necklace) for free with the purchase of two charms. Somehow it wasn’t just going to be a charm bracelet for her, but for me too. 

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

With so many charms to choose from including the special Texas legend that has taken over social media, as well as anything from a stand-up mixer to a tube lipstick, the selection process was a big part of the fun. Taylor couldn’t help to find a beautiful cupcake and a princess tiara…so fitting for my sweet little princess. 

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

For my bracelet (and ultimately hers), I was drawn to the “Mother’s Love,” a heart design that embodies a mother and daughter; and a rose, well…because our middle names are both Rose. 

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

After making our purchases (and saving so much more than I expecting with the Mother’s Day offer), we enjoyed dinner together at The Theodore where we could enjoy “fancy mac n cheese” (her special request) and drink fancy glasses of Shirley Temple. 

Now this is a Mother’s Day tradition I could get used to. And I think James Avery was smiling down thinking that’s exactly what he had wanted for everyone. 

And now we have something else to look forward, next Mother’s Day with our own charming tradition. 

James Avery Mothers Day

James Avery Charming Mother’s Day Offer 

  • Now through May 29, buy two charms and receive a charm bracelet or necklace for free, up to a $70 value. 
  • There are so many mix-and-match necklace/bracelet options available with 15 styles to select. 
  • Create your personalized gift in-store or at JamesAvery.com stores. 
  • For specific questions on this offer, check with your store for more details. 

James-Avery-Mothers-Day

Hop into Spring Easter Basket Idea

By 10 Comments

Just because it’s an Easter basket doesn’t mean it has to be full of candy! Get them excited to hop into spring with this Spring Easter Basket Idea. 

Thanks to Mirum for inspiring Easter fun ideas with this sponsored post.

Through the years I’ve done pretty good with egg decorating and egg hunting, but I’ll admit, the Easter egg basket hasn’t been my forte.


Mostly because the idea of voluntarily giving my kids a whole basket of sugar is never on my agenda. So when we gave baskets it was full of things like activity books, small toys, etc. However, a lot like bad birthday party favors, I’d rather not give anything if it’s not good.

SpringEasterBasketIdea

Let’s face it, if it’s not, we moms throw out the junk. It’s what we do. 

So this Easter basket season, only good ideas to the rescue. Items that my kids can use, that my kids want, stuff I don’t mind them having, and most of all anything that can keep them occupied!

SlimJim

After a cold winter, it’s time to get ready to get outdoors which is what inspired this “Hop into Spring” Easter basket. Full of things to keep the kids outdoors, enjoying spring, and keeping them moving from sun up to sun down! It’s so important to get the opportunity to enjoy the perfect temperatures and beautiful work of Mother Nature! 

SlimJim

And best of all, I was able to get it all at Walmart, which has some awesome things to put together a great Easter basket.  And most everything was just a few dollars, making it super easy to make a quality basket. 

SlimJimEaster

SlimJIm

“Hop into Spring” Easter Basket Idea:

  • Cute Basket: This baby even comes with the bow and can be used for a picnic basket later! 
  • Bunny Ears:  Bunnies. Hopping. You get it.  
  • Sunglasses: To protect those cute little eyes! 
  • Kite: In the words of Mary Poppins “Let’s Go Fly a Kite.” 
  • Bubbles: Because bubbles.
  • Pinwheel: You can’t go wrong with 
  • Balloon Launcher: Water balloons make everything better. 
  • Emoji Frisbee: Frisbees are fun for everyone. 
  • Beach Towel: Either to sit on or wipe down from the balloons. 
  • Slim Jim Smoked Snacks: All this activity is going to work up an appetite! Thankfully our version of “meat and cheese” includes Slim Jim Smoked Snacks (26 ct.) in just the right size and cheese popcorn! 

You can choose to BYOB (that’s Build Your Own Basket for clarification) at Walmart or get REAL creative by making your own online for a chance to enter the sweepstakes at SlimJimBoldBreak.com. Plus when you share it socially and you can increase your chances of winning with more entries.  

EasterBasketIdea

Just take a look at our BYOB Basket (see our Funny Bunny!) and share yours too! 

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. The Slim Jim Build Your Own Basket Sweepstakes is sponsored by Conagra Brands, Inc. Open to legal U.S. residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18 & older. Begins 12:00 a.m. PT on 3/1/18 & ends 11:59 p.m. PT on 4/1/18. Twenty potential winners will be randomly selected to each receive a $100 Walmart eGift card. Total ARV: $2,000. Odds depend on number of entries. For full details see official rules at SlimJimBoldBreak.com.

EasterBasketSlimJim

What are your Easter traditions?

Don't missEaster-Eggs

Celebrate in 8: Quick Game Day Ideas

By Leave a Comment

Want to celebrate the big game, but don’t have any time outs to put it together? Here are quick game day ideas you can do to celebrate that take less than 8 minutes to do! 

Even if you aren’t a big football fan, there’s just something about getting together on Sunday night for the BIG GAME for food and fun together.  Even if you don’t have a team to root for and you don’t have much time to put anything together, make it worth celebrating with these Quick Game Day Ideas. If you have 8 minutes (and especially if you have kids), you can still pull off a touchdown. 

Just remember, the name of the game is TEAM! So do it together. Put the kids to work and to help you as part of the fun. Not only is it smart, but the “set up” is sometimes more fun than the real deal. 

1. Snack Stadium 


Bust out the chips and dip and you’re done! There’s no shame in your game with this quick “snack stadium” that can make your dips and chips (and whatever else look like a winning presentation with no work. Order it here or you can pick up at your nearby Party City. 

Game Day Snack Stadium

2. Chocolate Chip Dip Football 

Nicknamed “crack dip” by my friends, this recipe is a girlfriend’s favorite go to and she finally gave me the recipe! I made it shaped like a football and now who’s winning? This is the easiest recipe in the world and again – the kids can make it! 

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups mini semisweet chocolate chips (1 for the recipe, 1 for decorating)

Graham crackers, Teddy Grahams, etc. 

Directions

In a small bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until blended. Add the sugars and vanilla and beat until smooth. Stir in chocolate chips. Shape like a football. Cover in chocolate chips. Place in the fridge for 1 hour (optional) and serve with graham crackers. 

3. Game Time Bingo 

Don’t just put the kids in another room, make them part of the fun! This football bingo can bring them into the game (and for those of us that don’t know football this is really a great way to learn!) Print it off and use the GoGo squeeZ tops (putting those babies to use for your markers) and play throughout the game! Of course have a great little something for the MVP that wins! 

Gameday Football Bingo

4. LEGO Goal Post 

Did I make this? NOPE! But my son who doesn’t care too much about football LOVED being able to add to the fun by building his own details to the party. What’s fun about this LEGO Goal Post is that it also doubles as a fun one to fold up some paper footballs for a little game within the big game. But don’t just stop there! Think about the fun stuff your kids can do and just let them! That’s the real touchdown in this parenting game – make them feel like you’re a team. (Cheesy rant over.) 

5. Football Favor Boxes 

Want to make sure the kids don’t go crazy on snacks or perhaps you do have them in another room watching their favorite movie? Then put together these premade Football favor boxes using snacks from your pantry to ensure they get a balance of healthy snacks. Plus it’s the fun it in cute sack or box that kids and just using the snacks you already have! Gameday Football Favor

 

6. Commercial Showdown

You know the commercials are your favorite part! So make it the feature of the party with a true showdown. Use cardstock to make your “official judging cards” and use them throughout the game to see which one really makes the cut! You can these cute ones or use this field template to download to write in your own! 

Football Ad Showdown

7. Two-Step Mini Corndogs 

I love these because they are exactly two things you need to make these mini corndogs: cornbread mix and a package of cocktail sausages. (Can’t go wrong with cocktail weenies, right?) Put them together and bam – you’re done. Grab the supporting team (ketchup and mustard) and you’re an all-star. If you want to make these from scratch, then go talk to her. Personally, I’m all about the easy eight minutes (ok, these take time to bake but it took me only 2 minutes to put them together.) 

8. Buffalo Chicken Dip  

By far this dip recipe will ALWAYS get the team rooting for you. With just a few ingredients, you mix it together, bake it and it’s game time. Add veggies, bread, your fingers (WHATEVER) for this must-have Buffalo Chicken Dip. 

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar mix is great)

2 cup cooked chopped chicken, (<<<<<Rotisserie chicken for the win)

1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce (I like this one!) 

3/4 cup sour cream

1/4 Bleu cheese crumbles 

Instructions

Mix it all up (except reserve a little cheddar and bleu cheese for the top.) Bake it at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Done. 

Don't miss

Game-Day-Fish-Taco-Bar-Pmedia-Ad

 

New Year’s Eve Events for the Family in DFW

By 1 Comment

Ready to ring in 2018? Say hello to another year with the entire family with these New Year’s Eve Events for the Family in DFW.

While your younger years may have had you seeking for the wildest ways to ring in the New Year, once you have kids, your plans normally keep you at home. However, these NYE events in DFW will give you the opportunity to say hello 2018 with fun activities for the whole family. 

New Year’s Eve Events for the Family 2017

Happy Noon Year’s Eve – Dallas

Dallas Arboretum

Don’t want to have them stay up until midnight? Celebrate at the Rory Meyers Adventure Garden as they ring in Noon Year’s Eve! Enjoy learning science, making crafts and listening to fun music. Don’t’ miss the celebratory ball drop at noon!

New Year's Eve Events for the Family in DFW

Photo Credit: Dallas Arboretum

AT&T Streaming Lights at Reunion Tower – Dallas

300 Reunion Blvd. East
Watch in awe as the most iconic building in the Dallas skyline lights up with 360 degrees of fireworks at 11:59 p.m. to ring in the new year. They say the best viewing is from the west side of the Trinity, along the levees and Trinity Overlook Park or Trinity Groves. This is a perfect night out with the kids for a minimal cost. Get the details.

NYE 2018: A Celebration of the Centuries – Dallas

Medieval Times

Take your kids back in time to celebrate the coming new year Medieval style. Enjoy a four course feast during your two hour tournament along with tickets to the museum of torture, party favors, music and dancing plus a countdown to midnight. Get the details.

Photo Credit: Medieval Times

Out With a Bang Hike – Fort Worth

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

Get away from the world and take the kids on a peaceful hike out into nature as a naturalist teaches you about habitats during the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge’s “Out with a Bang” hike happening from 1-2:30 p.m. Get the details.

 

Countdown to Noon – Frisco

Sci-Tech Discovery Center

If you are in the north Dallas area and your kids are intrigued by science countdown to Noon Year’s Eve with them at the Sci-Tech Discovery Center. Expect: science experiments, balloon twisters, face painting, explosive stage shows and the ball drop at noon! Get the details.

New Year's Eve Events for the Family in DFW

Photo Credit: SciTech Discovery Center Facebook

Turn Back Time, The Ball Drops at Nine – Plano

Legacy Church

In Plano, you can spend a family friendly evening from 6-9 p.m. at Legacy Church’s Turn Back Time. Enjoy a variety show, a dance group, dinner & dessert, kids crafts, a sparkling juice toast and a gift for every family. Then make it home way before all the revelers and get the kids into bed on time! Get the details.

 

Dave & Buster’s New Year’s Eve Family Event

Several locations

Take the kids to an event designed for families to hang and have fun together as they celebrate the new year. Visit from 5-8 p.m. Buy a package that includes a buffet, unlimited sodas and power cards for the games!

 

New Year’s Eve 2018 at Topgolf

Several locations

Spend the evening out with the older kids at Topgolf! You can reserve your own bay with unlimited game play from 9-1 a.m. and even enjoy a champagne toast (if you are over 21)! I highly recommend purchasing the package that includes the prime rib dinner buffet. Get the details.

New Year's Eve Events for the Family in DFW

(Photo: Topgolf)

Strikz Family Fun Party & NYE Bash

Several locations

Celebrate with your kids at one of the  parties offered at Strikz. The Family Fun Party from 5-8 p.m. or the NYE Bash from 9-1 a.m. Either way, enjoy bowling, video games, laser tag, heavy hor d’oeuvres and unlimited soda! Get the details.

 

Make Ahead Holiday Brunch Ideas

By 3 Comments

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

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

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

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

Make Ahead Holiday Brunch Ideas

Make Ahead Christmas Morning Casserole

Mini Spinach Quiches

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

Easy Mocha Punch

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


Santa for the Big Kids: Dynacraft Black Ice eDrifter

By Leave a Comment

Just because they don’t fit on Santa’s lap doesn’t mean they don’t want a good gift. Your tweens + teens will go wild for the Dynacraft Black Ice eDrifter available at Academy Sports + Outdoors.

Thank you to Dynacraft for this Christmas helper and this sponsored post. 
 
I remember that first Christmas and the feeling of trying to get the right gifts for the kiddo under the tree…until I realized “oh yea, the kid doesn’t even know what’s happening.” 
 
But come that second Christmas, Santa wasn’t just an event, it was EVERYTHING for like six months…and every year after. Especially that year when we got him his first ride-on: a Jeep that he rode all over the house and the backyard.  
 eDrifter
 
However, there is a point when you take the kids to see Santa and their smile isn’t directed at the big guy in red, but a grimace that you even would make them take a pic with Santa or any other activity you dare ask them to do for Christmas.  It’s tweendom and I know it’s coming…oh it’s coming alright.
 
But at Christmas it doesn’t mean that they don’t want something that still will put a big fat smile on their face (just like when they were little) and give you the satisfaction that “you did it.” 
 
So if you have a 13 year old (and up to 154 pounds) that’s ready to roll, then you’ll find that happy face with the Black Ice eDrifter available at Academy Sports + Outdoors.  

It’s not like that ride-on you got ’em when they were little. The motorized drifting bike lets ’em go uphill and “drift” at 12.5 miles an hour. Powered by a 24-volt battery, making it easy to travel uphill or drift across flat terrain. If you’re like me, you might not know what drifting is…but it’s the cutting-edge wheel design that recreates the feel of drifting across black ice — no matter the time of year.  

edriftet

Plus it looks really cool with the gray finish and makes mom and dad feel better with a sturdy frame.  
 
edrifter5 

eDrifter

Dynacraft Black Ice eDrifter features:

  • The electric driver wheel powers the eDrifter to drift a full 360 to 720 degrees on all flat surfaces, as well as climb hills
  • The twist grip accelerator works like a motorbike, and the vehicle consists of tubeless tires with PVC drifter sleeves
  • Unlike other trikes, adrenaline seekers can propel the Black Ice eDrifter to over 12 miles per hour for up to 45 minutes of continuous use
  • Strong, sturdy frame and an integrated front fender that blocks debris from the rider’s face

edrifter3

While you can’t get this online before Christmas, use the store locator to find out where you can get yours now (and for the moment at less than $200!) 

Don’t miss the eDrifter featured in our 2017 Holiday Hot List for Good Morning Texas.

Christmas Holiday Poster 

Holiday Challenge: Holiday Picks for Her

By 9 Comments

The holidays are hard enough. Whether you shop JCPenney or its new upscale boutique “Jacques Penné,” take the JCPenney Holiday Challenge and rethink how easy you can get everything on your list.

Thanks to JCPenney for marking off the holiday checklist and sponsoring this post.

Have you finished your holiday shopping already? If so, then you can stop here.

For the rest of us (which I know is really most of us), one of the biggest challenges at the holidays is completing finding the time and the money to complete your ever-changing holiday must-buy list. #mamachallenge.


JCPenney Holiday Challenge

Trying to keep track of what everyone wants and needs gets to be overwhelming especially when you want to keep your gifting within your budget. And you get spread so thin trying to get it all done – and still see that smile on their face when they open it.

This season take the holiday challenge, #JCPchallenge, at JCPenney and beat your holiday budget. Get all you want for less than you think – from hot trending items and holiday must-haves to unexpected finds – all available in-store or online at great value.

JCPenney is helping to mark off your list no matter who you need to get something for, especially with its new Jacques Penné (JCPs upscale moniker). Opened in NYC for just two days, guests could experience JCPenney “with rose colored glasses” a beautifully curated holiday boutique decorated with a nod to JCPenney’s play on the penny with copper and penny decor. With Christmas trees and wreaths made of pennies, you can only believe it if you see it. It’s truly absolutely stunning! The pop-up was lined with specially selected upscale gifts designed in nine collections including picks from celebrity Nicole Richie.

JacquesPenne

JacquesPenne

 

Thankfully you can still visit and select your favorite finds in the the luxury online boutique until Jan. 7. Once you build your wish list in the virtual shop, the link will show where the item is find already on JCPenney.com.

Kinda genius, right?

That’s showing you how to rethink your JCPenney as the best place to shop for one-stop, affordable shopping for all things holiday this season.

And with JCPenney Reward opportunities, special offers for big savings like DEALS33, and much more, you can’t afford to not save at JCPenney. (Check online or in your circular for current discounts and promotions.)

Just take a look at some of my favorite holiday finds I picked after a online look at the Jacques Penne online boutique.

Funny enough I’m sure these are more like my want list for Christmas (hint, hint honey.)

JCPenney Holiday 2017 Picks

1/10 CT. T.W. Double Halo Diamond Stud Earrings in Sterling Silver

At just $25 (normally $124 so almost 75% off), these diamond studs will make any girl happy, at any age.JCPenney Holiday Challenge

Project Runway Bomber Jacket

Designed on Project Runway, bring home your own piece from the runway with Project Runway from JCPenney. And this bomber is all about getting attention and at less than $40 that gets mine!

Worthington Bell Sleeve Lace Top

Dress it down, dress it up this Worthington Bell Sleeve Lace Top shows off the best of you for just $22 and is available in various colors.

Sephora Inside JCPenney Lash Party

A pick from Sephora Inside JCPenney is always a win, but with the limited edition holiday gift sets, you can’t go wrong – especially with this Last Party Sampler.  With five sample size mascaras and one full size this set is must retailing at $74 for just $28.

Mixit Statement Necklace

Go bling or go home with this statement Mixit necklace that’s a showstopper for only 15!

Sassy Stemless “You Had Me at Merlot” & Gold Wine Opener

Under $10, toast to the holidays with this festive gold and black wine glass. A perfect party favor or way to make any event festive.

Be the hostess with the mostest style with this gold wine opener, the ideal complement to your sparkle glass.

 

Liz Claiborne Charging Wristlet 

Any modern day girl needs this Liz Claiborne Charging Wristlet in her wardrobe. Keep it classy while you keep your smartphone charging up for those snappable moments.

North Pole Trading Co. Mermaid Sequin Pillow

Gold? Black? You can have it however you want it with this gorgeous North Pole Trading Co. Mermaid Sequin pillow (less than $20!) featured as part of the Jacques Penne boutique.

See how much I saved and I gave?

(Receipt photo)

With so much to offer, take the Holiday Challenge from JCPenney.  Saving money and getting it all done, that’s #SoWorthIt, right!?!

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Pictures Say a 1000 Words

Follow Along!