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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Three Steps To a Turkey Touchdown This Thanksgiving

November 26, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 5 Comments

Your first turkey dinner doesn’t need to be THAT hard. Make a turkey touchdown this Thanksgiving with these three steps I learned my first Thanksgiving!  

I received a Jennie-O Turkey to help me test-run my first Thanksgiving. I’m sharing my experience here with you to show how easy it is!

Making Thanksgiving dinner seems to be a rite of passage that I had not passed — until this year. With scheduling issues making it impossible for a traditional Turkey Day dinner to be shared by my family, I decided not to just have the day come and go, but to go ahead and celebrate — a week in advance, and I would make it all. I mean the holidays are about spending a special time together not just on one pre-selected day right? 

There was only one little problem with my plan – I had NEVER made a turkey or anything for Thanksgiving. That’s right. I had peeled, mashed and creamed up the potatoes and even warmed up the rolls, but the task of Thanksgiving had never fell on my shoulders. So I made it my goal not just to make a turkey, but a big spread complete with: 

  • Bacon Dressing
  • Homemade rolls 
  • Truffled Mashed Potatoes
  • Blue Cheese Bacon Brussel Sprouts
  • Brown Gravy
  • Spiced Cranberry Sauce
  • and Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Brittle
While the menu was fun to create, it was the fear of that turkey coming out a burnt mess that had me so scared to make! I’ve always heard all these horrible stories about making turkey, but I wanted it to be amazing! 
 
 
So off to the store I went to get the ingredients for my Cilantro-Lime Turkey (a recipe I had found in my Better Homes and Gardens)! 

1) First off, was to pick out my turkey. Oh there were LOTS of turkeys to choose from! Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the Jennie-O Oven ready turkey breast – they were sold out! However, the meat manager at my grocery store was able to find me one last turkey, so it was a good sign that the Jennie-O was in high demand. 

2) Once I got this baby home, I was able to take it straight to the oven after a few special touches! Because it was a turkey breast, the weight of the turkey was less than full-size turkey, making my cooking time a little less than the big birds! And while I could have left it alone with no thawing or seasoning, I decided to add a special Texas touch with favorite seasoning Cilantro, the zesty flavor of lime and a simple marinade of cilantro and honey!  

3) Then I popped it in the oven and 2.5 hours later – behold perfection. Well, almost. We still had to carve it and taste it for the official call. 

<Yep, it was beautiful, it was delicious and juicy! SUCCESS!

please take a look here and many of the other delicious recipes in the November 2013 Better Homes and Gardens!

I can’t recommend the Jennie-O Oven Ready Turkey for your Thanksgiving! And IF you have any left overs then make sure you cook up this Turkey Tortilla Soup to savor it to the last drop! 

 

Dallas’ Best Dressed Secret: Upscale Resale at Clothes Circuit

November 18, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Disclaimer: I was invited to celebrate the 30th anniversary at Clothes Circuit and received a gift card. However, I have already spent way more money than my gift card balance and plan to go back multiple times. 
As I approach the holidays, my buying habits change to only giving and no more getting for me.  Unfortunately, it’s also the same time of the year that your social calendar requires you to look your festive best. 


Ain’t it ironic that Timing and Budget do not place nicely with each other? 



However, I did find out they can compromise.

Let me introduce you to my new guiltless pleasure, Clothes Circuit. 


A 30-year-old tradition in the Park Cities, Clothes Circuit offers women one-of-kind upscale consignment fashion with clothing essentials, shoes, accessories, coats, bags, handbags and jewelry.  Owned by Irene Mylan, the Clothes Circuit gives you the labels you want to buy at prices you can actually afford (and still buy Christmas.) 


With more than 500 items are introduced to the floor daily bearing labels from the world’s top designers and upscale retailers such as Trina Turk, St. John, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Marni, Calvin Klein, Gucci, Burberry and more.  Clothes Circuit also carries everyday office-appropriate options from Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s, The Gap, and Cole Haan.

A woman with little time to spend on shopping for herself, I immediately spotted a huge number of Louis Vuitton handbags and suitcases. Followed by several pairs of Jimmy Choos I couldn’t wait to put on my feet. I was already reeled in now, so off to the racks to see if there was anything that I had to have. 

Of course, I found some. A lot of some. Somewhere between the devoted Tory Burch rack, a Michael Kors Black trench and lovely gold frock (holiday attire is only available from now until the end of the year), I couldn’t help from seeing all the fantastic labels that I just couldn’t believe was available AND I could consider buying it. 


While I’ve enjoyed my time there, I have to admit, I hope this new-found-fun doesn’t turn like my Starbucks. From just special occasions to now multiple times a day, I’m now a gold card carrier of the coffee giant. Thankfully, Clothes Circuit doesn’t have a frequent shopper card or the Christmas tree at my house might look bare. 

At least I’ll look good. 
Clothes Circuit
6105 Sherry Lane
Dallas, TX 75225
www.clothescircuit.com
Get your inside look on inventory at Clothes Circuit on Instagram!




Must-Have Products to Ease You Into the Time Change {TV}

November 5, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

It’s been a few days since the clock rolled back…but did your internal clock make the change?

Don’t worry there is a way! Here are a few unique devices I found that not only make the transition easier, but maybe save your marriage too! (Not even kidding!) 

TV SEGMENT ON KTXD: 
http://www.ktxdtv.com/story/23827285/products-to-help-you-ease-into-daylight-savings-time




Celebrate Halloween & Dia de los Muertos with NEW SPOOKtacular Gluten-Free Halloween Desserts Cookbook {Recipe}

October 25, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 9 Comments

I love Halloween. 

However, with two little ones in a bilingual school, the shift of candy, horror films and slimy gore has turned into understanding the culture and history of Dia de los Muertos or “Day of the Dead.” 
In Latin America, on Dia de los Muertos, Nov. 1, the lives of the deceased are celebrated with food, drink, parties, and activities the dead enjoyed in life.  The most familiar symbol of Dia de los Muertos are the calacas and calaveras (skeletons and skulls), that are often seen symbolizing the holiday. 

Not always able to find ways to help my kids learn about Dia de los Muertos, I was excited to find this recipe in a new organic cookbook SPOOKtacular Gluten-Free Halloween Desserts.  A marriage made in heaven, this cookbook by Kanta and Vitura Barrios, also celebrates both Halloween and Dia de los Muertos through food with an added healthy bonus of gluten-free and dairy-free cooking. 


So I’m sharing the recipe the Barrios family has given my permission to share in hopes you too will appreciate and enjoy just one part of a beautiful, cultural event, Dia de los Muertos. 

MEXICAN CATRINAS & CALAVERAS (PECAN COOKIES)
(4 or 5 Catrinas and 6 Calaveras) 
INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup raw coconut oil or butter, softened
3/4 cup raw sugar (coconut or demerara sugar), pulverized
1 large egg
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2 ½ cups quinoa flour (plus extra flour for rolling the dough)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
3/4 cup finely ground pecans (pecan meal)
Skull Template and Catrina Template and a gingerbread lady cookie cutter of a similar size
(for decorating)
2 batches Royal Icing (see page 6)
Food coloring in white, red, orange
Green, yellow, and black edible ink pen
Icing piping bags with #2 and #3 tips, 1 for white and another for the other colors
Edible orange sugar sparkles (plus any other color you like) a steady hand
ROYAL ICING (covers 6 – 8 cookies)
1 large egg white (could be pasteurized)
1½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Using an electric mixer, beat the egg white for a few seconds before adding the sugar and half of the lemon juice.
  • The icing’s consistency should be smooth and heavy cream-like.
  • Add the remaining lemon juice (and more if you feel it’s needed) one drop at a time. You may also add more sugar to suit your liking.
  • Just a few drops of liquid, more or less, will alter the icing’s consistency. 
  • We recommend a thicker icing for outlining the cookie, and thinner icing for filling out the inside.
  • Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat the oil, sugar, egg, and vanilla until the mixture is a creamy consistency.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and ground pecans.
  • Add the dry mixture to the oil mixture and beat well.
  • Transfer the mixture to a board, and knead it just enough to make it a dough. 
  • Sprinkle some flour on the counter, and roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness. If you are making skulls, cut out the shape using the template provided.
  • For the Catrinas, follow the template provided or find a gingerbread lady cookie cutter of a similar size.
  • Place the cookies on the lined baking tray and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. 
  • Let the cookies cool completely before icing and decorating.


To Decorate

For the Catrinas, divide 1 batch of Royal Icing, and color it white, red, green, yellow, and black. 
You decide how much of each color you want to have. You have a couple of options for decorating this cookie. The first involves using the Catrina stencil and the writing pen. In the final Catrina, the background behind the skeleton will be the cookie itself. 

  • Start by drawing the outline of the Catrina with her skirt, hat, bones, and head straight onto the cookie.
  • Pick a color for the Royal Icing (red, green, or yellow) and use that color icing in a piping bag with a #3 tip to outline the skirt and hat. Once the icing sets, fill in the skirt and hat with the same color. Let the icing set. 
  • Using white icing in the piping bag with a #3 tip, outline the skull, vertebrae, ribs, bone arms, and fingers.
  • Fill the eyes, nose, and mouth with the black icing, using a #2 tip.
  • Finish with design details on the skirt, hat, and earrings using another color or colors and the #2 tip.
If you are looking for further materials and ways to teach your kids about Dia de los Muertos, check out this site at National Geographic! 



Make Life Easier with the Samsung Chromebook

October 22, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 6 Comments

Tech Tuesday:


Disclaimer: 
I was so incredibly happy to receive a Chromebook from Staples for purposes of this review. It came at the worst of times and the best of times, so I was able to really try it out and learn what makes a Chromebook unique. Read on to hear my fairy tale of making life easier with Samsung Chromebook. 

Let me tell you a sad story. 

Don’t worry, it gets good in the end…so keep reading. 

One day a girl had a wonderful tablet computer that she loved to do research on because it was easy to navigate and was extremely portable from a company called “Pear.” (Names have been changed to protect others.) 

Unfortunately, one fine day while she was carrying her tablet, a mean, horrible monster came and took it from her basket. She was so sad, she cried. And when she went home, her family cried. It was a sad day. Whatever would they do without it? 

Then out of the blue, came a little fairy named Staples to bring her another computer called a Samsung Chromebook. While it wasn’t a tablet, it had other special powers, that she wasn’t even aware of yet. The fairy said, try this and see what you think. “You might be surprised what you find out.” 

And so began a journey of discovery and exploration with the Samsung Chromebook. 

Considering I was already a total Google fan, getting going on the device didn’t take long. Within a few seconds of logging into my Google account, I was working with all my pre-populated Google-everything platform. It was like I was working from my laptop, but instead much lighter at less than 2.5 pounds, quicker with its 10-second Fastboot technology and even more seamlessly with the integrated Google operating system. 

The Samsung Chromebook is thin and light with a lot of accessibility.

I was impressed. But what else could be so special about it? 

Plenty.

  • The use of a keyboard is pretty obvious and unlike small tablets that can only connect to a keyboard via bluetooth, it’s ready to go once you open it and as easy to type on as a laptop. 
  • Built-in virus protection with the Google Chrome Operating System makes it a no-brainer for searching the Internet.
  • With 6.5 hours of battery life, the Chromebook creates a world of opportunity, especially when you run into Starbucks to get online and there’s not one outlet available. 
  • Ports!  You can actually connect to files on flash drive via the USB and HDMI port – meaning I can charge up my lovely smartphone while I’m working. And it also comes standard with WiFi and Bluetooth, giving you even more options to connect. 
  • Ready to conduct a quick Google hangout? Then start one in seconds with the quick button to the built-in camera! 
  • And the price? Starting at only $249, you could have two Chromebooks for the price of the leading tablet. 

Check out how thin the Samsung Chrome is next to my smartphone. (No judgement on the chipped equipment!)

However, it’s the machine that keeps on giving, too! 

As part of Google’s interface, it also means that in addition to all the standard apps automatically in your Google account, you can add more apps to create your custom Google portal. And if you work off more than one machine like I do, it’s wonderful to be able to access all your files and everything without investing in an FTP or duplicating files in another system. Your files are updated in real-time, and if you are sharing documents with others, you don’t have to have all the other programs to update thanks to Google Drive. And Google Print, is nothing short of genius! 

Photo courtesy of Staples.com

One of the other great things about this low-cost laptop are the added goodies like more Google Drive space, a free trial of Google Play and even 12 free Gogo in-air internet passes to use when you are traveling!

So with all the benefits of the Samsung Chromebook, it’s like a dream-come-true for those of us that are looking for a portable computer option that’s easy to use, can run tons of apps and access programs, and of course, fits into our price range. 

And as the story goes, the girl lived happily ever after. 

Graphic courtesy of Staples.com

Create your own computer fairy tale by getting your Samsung Chromebook at Staples, where they make things easy. By purchasing at Staples, you can get free shipping as well as 5% back when you are a Staples Rewards Member.

Wouldn’t a Chromebook make your life a little bit easier? 



5 Must-Have Beauty Finds for Fall

October 21, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Disclaimer:
I received the best bag of beauty goodies from Nordstrom at their fall Trend Show for this review. Although I loved all the products, there were a few standouts I had to share. 

One of my favorite “holidays,” Nordstrom Trend Show, took over Galleria Dallas to reveal to hundreds of beauty-minded women the newest and coolest products coming to the market for fall. If you’ve never been to Trend Show, I’d highly advise you sign up for “beauty church” to enjoy a full morning of all things beauty with products, samples and services. 

It’s a great time to update your makeup bag and enjoy a fun day of all things beauty. There are lots of things to recommend, but these are at 5 musts for all women!  

1. Age Arrest from Kate Somerville
According to the folks at Kate Somerville, Age Arrest “is the first anti-aging treatment with Telo-5™ Technology to prolong the life of telomeres for a youthful glow.” While I don’t know what telemeres is, the formula is proven to effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles, increase firmness and elasticity, improve skin discoloration and hydrates the skin – making it feel soft and rich. And the container is pretty awesome too – with one pump, the innovative dispenser measures the exact amount you need. ” 


2. NARS Blush/Bronzer Duo
Every girl appreciates a product that multi-tasks and this bronzer/blush duo can also play on the lips if you are just looking for a slight bit of color. The colors are perfectly paired to give you the perfect glow throughout the year.

3. Chantecaille Supreme Cils Mascara
I’ve had all kinds of brushes over the years that promised to do all kinds of stuff, but this snowflake design from Chantecaille’s Supreme Cils Mascara lifts, coats and separates – clump free. And it’s water resistant so those lovely lids can stay in place all day long. 

4. Airflash Matte Touch Long-Lasting Airy Powder Finishing Spray
I was sitting at a restaurant and noticed this gal, working her tail off had the best makeup – even while she was sweating and running around. I asked her what she wore and she immediately said Dior’s “air” line was the answer to her dreams! And this ultrafine mist is part of the reason that makeup can stay all day giving a velvety matte, shine-free finish so the way that you put make up on is the way it stays – all day!



5. Perricone MD Nutritive Cleanser
Taking off your makeup is even more important than the make up you put on! Perricone MD has long been recognized as an industry leader for anti-aging, Nutritive Cleanser is designed to make skin, soft, smooth and radiant, while delivering anti-aging benefits plus lifting and contouring benefits. 



Taste a Little Mediterranean Life with Zoë’s Kitchen

October 18, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Food Fridays:

I was invited to a special grand opening experience and received a complimentary lunch from Zoë’s Kitchen for the purposes of this review. But I have honestly shared my review with you. Let’s just say their hummus could be eaten daily. 

In the Greek language, “Zoë” means life. Now in Addison, Texas as well as throughout the DFW Metroplex, Zoë’s means natural and homemade Mediterranean-inspired fare that’s perfect for lunch, dinner and your special occasion. Conveniently located at the Belt Line and the Tollway next to the new Whole Foods at Village on the Parkway, you’ll find the welcoming doors to DFW’s newest Zoë’s Kitchen. 



The space is a great refuge whether you’re coming to meet a friend for lunch or just ordering up a meal for the office or the family on the way home from work. Meeting you right at the door you’ll find a large community table ideal for the office to take a break and enjoy a great brainstorming session over a slice of Yaya’s Hand-made Chocolate Cake. The interiors are bright and fun and creative touches that give it a community feel (just check out the artwork from St. Alcuin school.


However, it’s the menu that will keep you coming to take a spot on the large patio space or to do a quick call in for a last-minute meal. As a girl that craves feta, olive and hummus on a pretty frequent basis, it’s wonderful to have options that are delicious, but won’t break the calorie bank. There are many options to choose from including dishes you wouldn’t expect at a fast-casual spot like shrimp kabobs and braised white beans. In a hurry, we ordered up two dishes to try and like many local folks will be doing, for take out. 

Our two best sellers, were delicious and still very warm after we got to our own table. Always a fan of shrimp, it was great to enjoy some fresh veggies and grilled shrimp instead of a hamburger or boring salad. The shrimp was large and not over-cooked and the veggies were the mix of crisp and plump you want in a grilled kabob. And the pilaf, we could have continued to eat for dinner if it had lasted. The orzo pasta had the perfect lemon-hint of flavor with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese. The portions were just the right size; for both eating now and maybe a smaller-sized dinner or for sharing if you just wanted a healthy snack. 

SHRIMP KABOBS
two charbroiled kabobs, zucchini, rice pilaf, cucumber raita, side greek salad

We could have just ordered two of the shrimp kabobs, but we wanted to try something a little different, so we opted for the Steak Stack, considered a big favorite. Packed with steak, onions and feta on sourdough, this was a good alternative for someone looking for something different than a pita wrap or salad. While the flavors were ok, we kept going back to that shrimp kabob plate and the little side of hummus that we ordered on the side. While we didn’t have enough pita to eat up all the hummus, we could eat it later with our own veggies or crackers since you just couldn’t bare to waste it! 

STEAK STACK
sliced steak, portobello, mozzarella, caramelized onions, feta spread, tomato, sourdough, rosemary oil

While I enjoyed our plates, the catering and party meals really caught my eye.  The “Guilt-free Girls Night” would be a super selection for one of those last-minute girl get-togethers as well as the “Game Day Goodies” when you are looking to feed a hungry bunch that may want to scale back on their wings and queso. And considering you can even get “rewards” for ordering their catering deals, it’s enough reason to make Zoë’s Kitchen a favorite on your iPhone. 

I’ll definitely be back for the spinach rollups, chicken kabobs and oh, yes that hummus…and the pilaf…well, I’ll be back for more. 


Zoë’s Kitchen
5100 Belt Line Road 
Suite 1056
Next to Whole Foods
Addison, Texas 
http://www.zoeskitchen.com










Say Hola, Ni Hao & Bonjourno to Little Pim Kid Language Program

October 9, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Research showsthat a child’s brain is wired for picking up new languages easily up until around six years of age. Additionally, the exposure to additional languages helps children to be more successful in school. That’s why having my children enrolled in a bilingual school called Spanish Schoolhouse has been important to me before my children were even born.
Photo courtesy of Little Pim
But learning doesn’t stop at home; especially when mama doesn’t have a command of the language, either.

Little Pim, the award-winning foreign language-learning program for young children, has introduced a special-edition product line now available exclusively at select Toys“R”Us® stores nationwide. The new Spanish, Chinese, and English “Discovery Sets” include three DVDs and a LittlePim plush panda toy, which make learning a new language fun and easy for kids everywhere.

Between birth and the age of six, the human brain is pre-wired for language learning, and Little Pim helps families take advantage of this brief window, by making language learning easy, fun and effective. Their Entertainment Immersion Method® provides total immersion in the language. The method engages a child’s love of play watching real kids and animation. Little Pim’s proven repetition technique helps children retain new vocabulary.  

There’s nothing like hearing your kids actually want to watch an educational show instead of just cartoons! While I wondered if the videos would keep them both interested, they request watching them and enjoy watching them together! 

Inspired by Julia Pimsleur Levine, the daughter of Dr. Paul Pimsleur, creator of the Pimsleur Method, the popular language-learning program for adults, Little Pim was created by her own bilingual childhood.  The Little Pim program is available in 11 languages including Spanish, French, Chinese and Italian. 

And throwing in a stuffed animal never hurt to incentivize kids to do something either. To see how Little Pim works, check out a free 15-minute episode.

Little Pim Special Edition Discovery Sets
$39.95 exclusively at select Toys“R”Us®nationwide
toysrus.com
Ages 6 months-6 years
$39.95

A great gift idea for birthdays and of course, Christmas!


Take a Break from Parenthood with the Cadillac CTS

October 7, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: I was provided the use of a Cadillac CTS to experience luxury driving in beautiful car. You should too and here’s why. 

The day I had to trade in my BMW coupe to get a more mom-appropriate car, I cried like a little baby who had lost their blankie. I loved that car and enjoyed the feeling I had every moment I was behind the wheel. Giving up that car was a milestone moment for my life; leaving behind my childhood as I prepared to be the mother of my own child.


Since then I’ve driven a mom car; actually a SUV with room for car seats, diaper bags and pack n plays. I’ve definitely adjusted to the change of a little car to a big mom-mobile and for the most part, I don’t mind it (except for the Goldfish crumbs.) However, when I slid behind the wheel of a Cadillac CTS, that moment of freedom, class and “I have arrived,” took me by suprise. I instantly wanted to drive all kinds of places to show off the beautiful charcoal-colored coupe and how beautiful I felt now that I was in a caddy. 

I mean it IS a Cadillac.


Unfortunately, it was time to pick up the kids from school and since car seats don’t belong (or fit) in this car, I climbed back into reality and rushed off to my unexciting mom life. But deep down I really wanted to continue driving and to check out all its smooth features like hidden handles, keyless entry and the push button to open the doors.

Cadillac CTS Highlights: 
Touchpad door openings
Hard-drive radio system with USB port
Six air bags
Rearview camera within your rearview mirror
Parking assist, side blind zone alert

So I decided to make time for the car and made it a reason for a dinner out…besides, I guess being without kids and with my husband might be good for us. And there was also the car to drive. Being in the Cadillac did make the date seem a little more exciting and formal. We were able to test out the air-conditioned seats and just drive. Instead of messing with all kinds of buttons, we spent time together just cruising and enjoying the feeling. The drive was incredibly smooth, especially with its ultracomfortable leather seats. 




After a night of pretending of how my life was without kids, without pressures and baby sitters, it was time to go home and get back to my life. Once we hit the garage, our little people came out and reminded us why we had given up the fun and eye-catching car for my mom-mobile.  

However, my baby girl definitely took up on the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the Cadillac. Uh-oh, I think she might already have a crush on the Cadillac, too. 


Gotta Whole Lotta Love for Bread Zeppelin

October 4, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Food Fridays:

Disclaimer: I enjoyed two sandwiches courtesy of Bread Zeppelin for purposes of this review. And they were good, so read on. 

Oh, how I love a sandwich. There’s just something so perfect about getting all these great ingredients and putting them between two pieces of bread…of course that is until they fall out or I accidently eat all the cheese and am left with nothin’ but a little lettuce for my last bite. Epic failure. 


These same traumatic experience happened one time too many for Troy Charhon and Andrew Schoellkopf, so they created the Zeppelin. Bread Zeppelin to be exact, the new salad innovative ffering in Irving. Using fresh baked artisan bread from Dallas’ own Empire Bakery they core/hollowed out right before serving. So you get fewer carbs without sacrificing the crunch or you can always choose to just make it a salad, but why? 



The Bread Zeppelin concept offers 40 ingredients, 20 dressings and loads of suggestions to create the perfect masterpiece. After choosing from the list of fresh ingredients, they chop it up, dress it up and serve it up to you in bowl or in a Zeppelin. 


Leaving it to the professionals, we ordered up a NOLA and a Southwestern to try for our first time. The NOLA mixed up fried shrimp, tomato, red onion, some other fixins and dressed it with a zesty French remoulade. The Southwestern paired by favorite black bean and corn flavor along with avacado and cojita cheese. 


Both sandwiches were packed with flavor and large bites of meat, cheese and/or veggies. I’ll admit order up the sandwiches added some bulk to your bite, but by ordered up a coup of soup to go with it, you had the perfect amount of bread to tear off and dip into the soup and eat your sandwich. While the innards of these babies may not pretty when you chop them in small, bite-size pieces, remember, it’s this new sandwich-technique that gets you a shrimp in the whole sandwich, not just the first few and then fall out around your zeppelin. I could continue to “Ramble On” about the Zeppelin, but I think it’s just something you should try for yourself.
It may not be the “Stairway to Heaven,” but it makes worth waiting for in the meantime.

Bread Zeppelin
6440 N MacArthur Blvd #140
Irving, TX 75039
469.359.2661





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

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Pictures Say a 1000 Words

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taken from @beardfoundation:

INGREDIENTS

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

DIRECTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy New Year’s Y’all!

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

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

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

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

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

Before you go: 

🕹Have a team name ready

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do you theme your wrapping? What was this year?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And you know I love a monogram! 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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