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How to Buy a Car the Smart Way

April 18, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

In the market to buy car? At some point most of us are, so learn How to Buy a Car the Smart Way.

This is part of a #mamachallenge sponsored series to show that class, convenience and community come together perfectly at Park Place Motorcars Arlington.

I remember the first time I bought a car by myself. I didn’t realize at all what I was doing, but I felt that I needed to be strong and hopefully not get charged a crazy amount. Of course this was before I had a family, advanced technology and GPS entered the market, and there were so many resources so we could do some homework.

Thankfully, the situation turned out ok, but I’ll be honest there are so many things I could’ve done better and have learned since then to do and not to do when it comes to buying a car. And believe me – it’s not just about the car when it comes to making the best choice for your auto purchase…it’s also about the entire experience (and paying for it) that is important. With all your life-changing scenarios and needs, it’s important to reassess the process. So learn from this mama how to buy a car the smart way.

Let’s break it down to basics.

DEFINE YOUR NEED

To me this is the most important part and should be done before you even start looking at a car. If you can narrow down what you need vs. what you want early in the process, the rest of the other steps are a walk in the park. Depending on where you are in your life, you could have very specific needs (like lots of room for your little people) and perhaps you could really crave a car that looks good and drives fast.

So ask yourself these questions:

Size:

What size do you need? Who is going to be in this car and how is it going to be used?

Budget:

How much do you want to pay for a car and be comfortable with the amount (remember, there’s maintenance, insurance, etc. to consider as well?)

A rule of thumb is to spend around 20% or less of your take home pay on a car. However, that’s not always feasible for everyone depending on what expenses you have to manage. If you have kids, you know what I mean.

If you have a trade-in, that definitely changes the bottom line as well depending on what it is you have to pay. When you look at sealing the deal (see step below), you should know the value of your car by also doing some research (but take into consideration what condition your car is in, so you don’t always get the price it says.)

A rule of thumb is to spend around 20% or less of your take home pay on a car. However, that’s not always feasible for everyone depending on what expenses you have to manage.

Dealbreakers:

These are the things you NEED to have in the car like – needs to have four doors vs. two, must have lots of truck space, has GPS, is small so you can park it, etc.

Nice-to-Haves:

This is the WANT part – like the car needs to hav a sunroof, needs Apple Car Play, etc.

Then you have the hard part of prioritizing what you think is the most important thing to you (and these might change, too.)

If you noticed I didn’t ask two big questions here – do you want to buy new or pre-owned AND buy vs. lease. I personally think most people have a biased against both and a preconceived notion on how they work (often you replicate the buying tendency of your parents in this area.) Honestly, there are benefits and challenges to both.

A little note here: A lot of places will tell you to start looking at cars first. The reason I suggest you take the time to define your need is a lot like buying a house. After you start looking at several models, you’re willing to change what you need and what you’ll pay once you see what’s out there. And two things will happen: you’ll either settle for the most inexpensive version because you don’t want to pay much and therefore buy a car that ultimately won’t make you happy OR you’ll buy too much car and every month have to work at making the payment.

When you do the work you’ll be able to find a car that you’ll love and can afford (and yes, you can find that!)

RESEARCH

Now this is where you get to have some fun. This is the part of the process that you can get online, ask questions and research away. Once you’ve pegged down what you need (and what’s the icing on the cake), start seeing what’s out there. Visit a car show, get to Google, and ask your friends (they’ve already done some of the work for you so ask them what they like about their car and what they don’t.) Now what you find at this point doesn’t mean that they are your only options, but they give you an idea of what you’re realistically looking for and answer some of the other questions like colors, interiors, technology (this is a biggie for me.)

What I can’t just head to the dealership and start buying a car?

You absolutely can! But I’d at least have your needs, wants and how much you can pay in mind when you go. However, if money is you have huge deal breaker for you, you might need to look at your finances first (see next step below.) However, if there’s a range, you might be surprised by what you’ll find out you like vs. not like in a car when you go shopping. Your sales representative (mine is Ken and he’s amazing) is going to ask you what you’re looking for, so having your needs / wants list already set is so helpful, so they can really target what you needs vs. you having too much fun spending time driving a car you know you won’t buy in the long run (and wasting time!)

Which leads me to an even more important question: Where should you buy your car?

There are many options available to how and where to buy a car, but make sure to do your homework services like online-only car sales. While I know it’s an option for some, for me, I want a person to talk to about the car, to show me how it works (I once spent :30 minutes once trying to figure out how to open the hood), and a physical place to go when there’s a problem. That’s a dealership.

Dealerships

When choosing a dealership, you need to a little work there, too. It’s not just what’s closest or where you bought your last car that is an option. Some dealerships are much more invested in service than just being a place that sells cars. Many of them take great pride in the process of having a car, the customers that buy them, and hopefully, that you’re a client for life.

For example at Park Place Dealerships (which has 24 locations throughout DFW), #MyParkPlace is an entire campaign showing clients that not only have bought a car with Park Place, but have bought multiple cars for many years because of their exceptional service. From the moment you head to the door, there’s someone available to show you cars or if you prefer, lets you peruse the lot. And if you’re the kind of person that wants to do as much as much as possible online before you even visit the dealership, you can work with the Internet Sales Manager who can help you through the whole process online until it’s time to pick up the car!

But there are some other really good reasons to head to Park Place Motorcars especially the one I visit in Arlington.

Just take a look in their Customer Service Area and you’ll see what looks like the most beautiful coffee shop, sports bar, and even a space for the kids. With beverages available, plentiful seating options, TVs (just count how many), and free WiFi, you can get your car washed and maintenanced in the ultimate comfortable setting. I know from my own experiences, that is not normally the case at other dealerships, waiting for eight hours in a loud, cramped service center. I admit in my experience at Park Place, I actually waited a few minutes after my car was done because I didn’t want to leave and I was getting work done. But on days you can’t wait, Park Place customers also get access to loaner vehicles when they get services.

PAYING FOR IT

Okay no one wants to have this conversation, right? It’s the more adult part of the car-buying process…how are you going to pay for it?

First, be real with yourself. Know your credit score and where you sit with your finances. Then consider pre-financing. Whether than pick a car and wait to see if you can pay for it – you can get online and begin the process NOW so you know what you can pay before you start. Park Place Arlington has an online option so it’s quick and easy, but if you prefer, there are other options available like our bank / credit union, Lending Tree, etc. that can walk you through your process.

In the case you need a co-signer/co-buyer, do them a courtesy and ask BEFORE you are ready to sign on a car. Give them the opportunity to make a decision that’s good for them as well in a reasonable time AND that they can also see their finances are also in order. Plus if they know you’ve been planned out and taken the time to make your car choice, they’ll see you’re going to be responsible with their money and where their name is attached.

For me, I know my habits and I like the technology in a car so having a new car is important for the latest and greatest in tech. But for other people it’s having a specific kind of car, like a beautiful Mercedes or a Lexus that drives their leading priorities. But I’ve learned that it’s possible to have your cake and eat it too.

New / Preowned

Did you know that Park Place Arlington has both pre-owned and new cars available? So if you really have your heart set on a Land Rover, or a Ford F-150, or even that Jaguar convertible, they have it available! These pre-owned cars are Certified so that you know that they have been inspected, services, and restored to a like-new condition. And you still get the benefits of being a Park Place client.

Lease vs. Own

So do you want to own or lease? Again, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. I lease my car because I always want a newer car with the most updated technology that has a warranty, but I also need to keep my payments reasonable. My husband’s car is owned because he loves it and so he can add what he wants to it, so we do both.

TRY IT OUT

Whatever you do, you must drive the car. Yep, take that test drive. Even if you have to have it ordered in, you need to make sure you’ve put your eyes on it and driven the car. And here’s why – I once had a car I requested in black that I literally was signing the documents on my car to purchase, but when I saw the car, I saw that the “black car” was actually navy. While somewhere on the documents it said navy, the sales rep thought it was black, too.

But that’s definitely not the only reason to test drive the car. If possible, don’t just drive it around the lot – make sure you’ve driven it on the highway, on the access road, and my favorite learning opportunity, your garage. Yes, once upon another time I bought a car that didn’t fit in my garage. Nothing is worse than realizing you bought a car that doesn’t work for you. You need the kids to get in it if you’re buying a family car including your spouse (hey, they need to fit too.) And if it’s just you and your dog, you might want to make sure they fit too!

Not only do you want to drive it, but turn on the radio, try out the trunk / back area, use the buttons – love this car.

Americans spend on average 293 hours in their car a year.
So you better like what you’re driving.

SEAL THE DEAL

So you found it – your car! Congrats we’re almost there. There’s just a few more steps to the finish line!

Once you have the car in mind and you’re ready to take the plunge, make sure to confirm the rate and price with the lender. Also, if you have a trade-in, time to level up and see how much the dealership is willing to give you for the car so you can leverage your final payment price!

Another benefit of working with a sales representative at a dealership like Ken at Park Place Arlington is that you can discuss all the warranties, special offers, benefits of the dealership and how they work. If Roadside Assistance is part of your deal, make sure you understand how it works, how to contact them, etc.

Once you’ve settled on the price and signed the dotted line, make sure to get the lowdown on all of the following:

Have your sales representative do show and tell! Have them show you how and set up all your technology before you leave the lot.
Have your chair set perfect for you, get the radio set, ask how things work! This is why you have a sales rep – they’re there to help you!
And while you’re looking at the car, make sure you know how to manage that spare tire – just in case!

Yep, it’s that easy…ha! Actually buying a car can be a great process or a horrible one, but with a little planning and help (hello, Park Place Arlington), you can be ready to hit the road in no time!

Ibi: Smart Photo Storage for Who You Want to Share It With

March 23, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Have photos in the cloud, sky, on your computer and everywhere else? Get it together in one spot and share your photos too with ibi smart photo storage.

This post was sponsored by the makers of ibi, who also sent me the product for review.

I am an admitted pack rat.

I have boxes in my office dedicated to putting the kids’ school crafts, remnants of cute notes they’ve drawn, greeting cards they’ve received, ticket stubs and of course, all their class photos.

That’s the kids’ boxes – you should see the ones I have for myself and for work.

So it’s no secret that my phone’s photo album acts like a digital version of all the photos and events of our lives. Then add on an event I’m covering or an impromptu blog post or social media opportunity and photos stack up quick.

Currently my phone reads at 20,000+ photos and 2,000+ videos.
2500 are just from the beginning of this year.

And before you ask, yes, I also back up.

There’s iCloud, Dropbox, and Box. Hey I even have some CDs burned with old photos like from our trip to Italy, our wedding in Puerto Vallarta, and Jackson’s once-in-a-lifetime Wish Trip to Disney World. And I pay for all the subscriptions and their expanded storage.

And none of them are complete collections.

And that’s before you count the backup boxes we also have of the actual photos. Then to share, I normally upload to Facebook to share with my network or send via text five at a time to my parents. And after all that, I’m spent and I don’t share much of anything else because it’s just a lot of work.

Another issue is that I don’t always want to share photos with everyone. I want to make sure that I documented the moment for me and my family, but it doesn’t mean I want to share it with my network of friends on social (work, church friends, or acquaintances.) Considering not every shot is award-winning and ready to be put on social, doesn’t mean that I don’t want to keep it and in some instances, share it.

Besides one day my kids will be on social and I know there are some shots they’d rather mom not share to the Interweb:)

Needless to say, it takes a lot to keep and share memories at your fingertips.

That’s why ibi might be your next best friend.

Don’t know ibi?

Well think of your own personal hub for all photos for all your devices that automatically makes sure your best moments are always saved, all in one place. But even better, ibi makes it easy to connect with your inner circle of family and friends (whomever you’d want) to receive photos, but not to everyone on your social media list. I mean there are times you want people on social to see that first day of school pic or maybe that travel shot you took when you get home from vacation, but with ibi, you can make sure it’s just your mom and dad or your sisters. And if you don’t want anyone but your hubs to see your shots, then don’t worry, you set up your circle to make sure it’s only who you want who can receive what photos you have on ibi.

Set up is a cinch…you just plug ibi in, download the app, and get ready to directly upload those photos. Done.

Hey, with all the other mamachallenges you have happening, if you snap that perfect shot, don’t you want to make sure you don’t lose it and most of all, don’t necessarily share it with the world?

That’s what ibi smart photo can do for you so you can keep taking the photos and enjoying them!

Stop the Business of Being Busy

March 19, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Feel like you’re always busy? Feel like you’re not busy enough? Quit the comparisons and stop the Business of Being Busy.

Thanks to McDonalds of North Texas for reminding all us ladies that we are more than enough, we’re worth it with this sponsored post.

I have a lot of quirks.

I hate the sound of repetitive tapping.

I despise people who stand up on airplanes when you land in hopes to be the first to deboard.

I cannot even handle it when people take phone calls in public places like the doctor’s office and talk like no one else is in the room.

I could keep going on for days, but probably the thing I hate to hear the most?

[yes, imagine this is me. Like right now. Or maybe you, but you get it.]

Hearing women rattle off how busy they are.

Yes, I said it. And oh yes, I’ve done it.

Hey I get it, we all have so much to do. Like crazy amounts of things – some because we have to, some because we volunteered to, some because we want to, and a lot because we just feel like we have no choice otherwise.

But why is it we feel so compelled to list it like a badge of honor? And then use it to make other people feel bad (or you feel bad from hearing it and think, “wow, I should be doing more!”)

It’s true, as women, especially those that are moms, we do a lot. No matter what we do in our personal or professional lives, most women don’t just have one job. We normally have like 3 or 4…or 5 or 6…well multiple jobs and many of them go unpaid. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development says women do more than 4.5 hours of work every day that is unpaid and it’s considered Women’s unpaid work is the backbone of the American economy. Says a lot, right?

But whether you have a big important job with a corner office or your window is the one you look out of every day as you nurse your kid, we work a lot and we wear a lot of hats…some we love, some we don’t, but it is what we do.

With the nature of my job and I often get asked, “what is it that you do?”

Sometimes, I just say marketing. But when the real answer is the only one that will do, I take a deep breathe and list off the list of what roles and responsibilities I have like a resume.

“…And oh yea, I have 2 kids and have been married since 2006.”

And it doesn’t even begin to really say what I do most days. But for every woman I know, that’s the case. We do it and we don’t even share the whole story because most of us don’t ever feel like it’s actually enough.

“I’m not working out enough.”

“I’m not volunteering enough.”

“I don’t cook enough.”

“I’m not home enough.”

“I’m not good enough.”

Man, the detriment we all do to ourselves with this thinking. But you know it’s true.

Being a woman and being a mom isn’t what we do, how much or how little, it’s how you live between the crazy that really matters.

For me:

It’s Sunday mornings when I steal a few moments of silence before my family wakes up wrapped up on the couch with nothing but silence.

It’s when I’ve had a super early morning, when I can stop through McDonalds and grab a medium cup of McCafè coffee (my favorite coffee bar none), hot and just the way I like it with three creamers. And then I can also grab hot breakfast for the kids and roll into the house just before they wake up to see a smile and the look of surprise!

It’s that opportunity when someone smiles at you or gives you a compliment or even better when you offer the smile that makes a big difference in your day and theirs!

Those are actually the sweet moments, especially those that you share with others, that bring us real joy that we should be judged by not the list of how much we do:)

This month McDonald’s all of us women and moms to share how you celebrate your own simple moments with LUNCH BUNCH! At each event, kids will be able to participate family friendly activities, including balloon twisters, face painters, arts and crafts and of course, to enjoy Play Place – to name a few! And you get a chance to talk with other women especially about women in business during Women’s History Month.

MARCH LUNCH BUNCH MEET UP

Tyler

Thursday, March 21, 2019 from 12-1 pm

McDonald’s at 4014 S. Broadway Avenue, Tyler, TX 75701

Dallas

Friday, March 22, 2019 from 12-1 pm

McDonald’s at 216 S. Coit Road, Plano, TX 75075

Plus everyone can try the newest menu offering, McCafé Donut Sticks. Made with golden-brown dough, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and made fresh every morning (they are light as air!)

I hope you’ll join me in Dallas on Friday and to enter to win a $10 McDonald’s gift card!

For those of you that attend the event, you’ll be entered in a drawing for a McDonald’s gift card if you say you’re from mamachallenge.com and the mamachallenge winner will also be entered to win whether they’re in attendance or not!

ENTER TO WIN MCDONALD’S GIFT CARD

Apple Cinnamon Biscuits

January 29, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Like Lionel says, these Apple Cinnamon Biscuits are “easy like Sunday morning” (and so good to eat, too.)

Thanks to Envy Apples for reminding us that “apple a day…” especially when it’s as good as this one and this sponsored post.

While this year I decided not to concentrate on resolutions, I did make a set of goals of things I wanted to spend time working towards mastering in the kitchen. None of them were exotic, but what I felt any good southernern should know… Having a few recipes that you are known for that make people smile even before they open their eyes because the aroma has drifted them out of their slumber.

You know – things with carbs. And sugar. Ahhh.

The Golden Trifecta: Biscuits, Hot Rolls and ultimately, the omnipotent Cinnamon Rolls.

Likewise when Envy Apples invited me to enjoy a Central Market Cooking class featuring Envy Apples, this was the time to begin my challenge. But of course, not without enjoying a few new unique dishes made with the most envious of the apples, the Envy Apple.

So what makes an Envy apple so “envious?” It’s not just the aroma and taste (which is just the right amount of sweetness from the Braeburn and the Royal Gala), but the fact that it doesn’t turn brown as soon as you cut it! So it makes for the perfect ingredient from everything from a sangria to salad to soup (the butternut squash and apple soup below was bowlickin’ good although I was able to restrain myself.)

After my inspiring evening with all things apples, I was ready to put mine to work. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one that wanted to get their hands on them apples:)

This is the best $10 ever spent for this baby. It’s a no brainer if your eyes water when you cut onions. This is your answer to dicing!

Because I hadn’t even started my quest, I felt like I really needed to master the first, before moving on to the next baked good. That meant biscuits. And the cold air outside said biscuits, too. So that Sunday, biscuits were on the brain — but to sweeten the deal, I was adding a little sweetness with apples and cinnamon.

So off to races we went, mixing, kneading and making sure were to be quick, yet deliberate (so the bits of butter wouldn’t melt as we folded and rolled our dough.) Honestly, if you read through any good baked recipe, you’ll realize it’s not just the final result you’re after, it’s the lessons on life you learn when you finally master it that make it the perfect biscuit.)

Yep, there’s some deep stuff there.

But as soon as it’s done and you smell the combination of apples and cinnamon greet the air, you have found the promised land. Slather on some honey butter and it’s over (you’ll start eating these are breakfast but find a way to add them to your next meal (did someone say apple-cinnamon chicken biscuit?)

While I’ll admit, I still need to roll out some biscuits in my sleep and without referring to my recipe before I can call it mastery, these were a good milestone moment. Now off to make my Sangria with my Envy Apples.

Apple Cinnamon Biscuits

Author: Autumn Rose Reo of mamachallenge.com
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12-18

Print Recipe

Description

The perfect mix of apples + cinnamon all wrapped up in a warm, buttery biscuits. It’s what Sunday mornings are made for.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

2 teaspoons cinnamon

5 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces (pea sized and leave in fridge until ready to use.)

3/4 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)

Cinnamon sugar blend, for topping, optional or honey butter for glaze

Instructions

Heat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or lightly grease.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
With a pastry cutter or your fingers, work in the butter pieces until thoroughly mixed throughout dough. Stir in the finely chopped apples.
Combine the buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla; stir into the first mixture until all ingredients are moistened. Depending on moisture from the apples, a little more buttermilk or flour might be necessary.
Turn out onto a floured surface and knead a few times (5-8 times.) Pat into a circle about 3/4 inch thick and cut out with biscuit cutter.
Place on baking sheet. If you choose, add sugar/cinnamon mixture.
Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until lightly browned.
Add honey butter after cooked and serve.

5 Holiday Reminders Every Mom Needs

December 20, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 76 Comments

Christmas is hard work. Take out the stress with Happy Cards and let the elves do the dirty work for a change.

Thanks to the elves at Happy Cards for sharing this sponsored post how we can all get a little more happy this holiday.

If you have scissors in your hands as your wrap one of the countless numbers of gifts under the tree or plotting the demise of your “Elf on the Shelf” while you prop it for the daily antic before your children wake up, then you need to stop.

I repeat: put down the scissors or the Elf. (Or in my case, both of them since the Elf was about to go down.)

For most mamas, Christmas is one of the best (and worst) times of the year. You may not admit it (at least not aloud), but while you love those uploading your annual Santa’s photos with the kids for everyone to see, Christmas is hard work.

Yes, I said it.

If Cheesecake Factory, Saks Fifth Avenue off 5th, Panera Bread, Sephora, SpaFinder.com, Bed, Bath and Beyond, and Lord & Taylor makes you happy, then just keep reading.

But before calling me a Grinch or a Scrooge, understand I love this time of year with beautiful decorations on everything from the fireplace to the mailbox, the look on the kids faces on Christmas morning when they unwrap the gifts, and all the other magic that comes with the holidays. But mama, you put in some serious work to make it all happen and you weren’t always smiling when you did it. Oh, I know I wasn’t…far from it.

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My ❤️is so full! Our first Christmas in our new neighborhood and carolers came with cookies and song. When I saw this moment at the door, the tears started flowing. It was like the moment the Grinch’s heart grew 10x. Pretty sure all my Christmas wishes have been granted. I’m a lucky lady. (Go to my Instastories to hear.) . . . #Christmas #carolers #holiday #dfw #dallasmoms #arlingtontx #viridiandfw #viridian #thisisarlington

A post shared by mamachallenge | Autumn Reo (@mamachallenge) on Dec 16, 2018 at 5:55pm PST

There’s nothing fun about interrupting the very precious hours of sleep you get for almost a month just to give life to a red inanimate “elf” with a creative theme that your kids will laugh at for :10 seconds in the morning.

Look closely. Very closely to see what’s happening to this Elf.

There’s nothing fun about climbing all over the outside (and inside) of your house while putting yourself in danger to put up lights, just to take them down again a month later.

There’s nothing fun about trying to get just the right something for that someone and then bracing yourself when you have to be around them (even if you don’t really like them.)

But for most moms, they wouldn’t have it any other way. Even for those of us that actually have to purchase our own gifts, wrap them to put under the tree, write our kids or spouses name on them, and then act like we’re surprised on Christmas morning. (Or in some cases, not get anything at all in your stocking because if you don’t do it, no one will.)

However, we also know that nothing’s going to change and if we want the magic of Christmas to happen (and I know I’m not letting go of it), then we feel we have to do it. #MOMGUILT is real and we all make us feel like it’s what you have to do.

But there are a couple of things you can do to put the HO-HO-HO back in the holidays rather than the BOO-HOO-HOO.

We all need to remember the following:

No one is thinking why you didn’t coordinate your wrapping paper under the tree once they open the gift.
There is no mom award given at the end of the holidays for making it the best Christmas ever.
If you don’t make it to every Christmas event on the list, no one is going to know.
If you don’t send out Christmas cards this year, you can post a photo on Facebook and call it done. Or send an Easter card or try just writing a letter.
You don’t need to work so hard to find the right gift. Gift cards really do make people happy, so buy it and be done.

Yes, gift cards. I know trying to find the “right card” is hard enough…but with Happy Cards, you can alleviate all that. Just pick one of the many cards and the giftee can choose what they want to get…and quite possibly more than one present. They can enjoy their favorite restaurant, start on the house project they’ve been waiting to do, or even get their resolutions moving – all with the Happy Card!

Remember, what your family really wants is a mama that’s happy, rested and wants to enjoy Christmas. And honestly, so do I. So we’re happy the little elves at Happy Cards are sharing a $100 Happy Lady Happy Card for one lucky mama.

So what are you waiting for? Enter below.

It’s just a click to get one step closer to a service from being a Happy Mama with a Happy Lady card from Happy Cards. And you have until Dec. 24 at midnight to enter. That’s all you have to do. (We’ll that and whatever you still have on your Christmas list – that probably isn’t necessary either.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

McDonalds Gives More with #McGiveBack Campaign

November 9, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

McDonalds gets into the spirit with its #McGiveBack campaign this holiday benefiting the community with Pennies for Pounds, RMHC’s Scholars Scholarship, and Veteran’s Day.

Thank you to McDonalds of North Texas for giving to the community and partnership with this sponsored post.

‘Tis the season for giving and the Golden Arches is giving out more than Happy Meals and Big Macs this November.

Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2018

This Sunday, Nov. 11, the North Texas Owners of McDonald’s are honoring the selfless individuals who have given their lives to protect our country through service in the U.S. military. All active military and veterans can choose a complementary breakfast meal of their choice on Sunday, Nov. 11 when they visit their local McDonald’s. So help spread the word or take you favorite military service person or vet for breakfast to say thank you for all you’ve done to keep our country safe.

Pennies for Pounds

Those legendary french fries always bring a smile to your face, this November you have reason to smile even more with Pennies for Pounds. For every pound of french fries sold, McDonald’s in North Texas will donate two cents to the Ronald McDonald’s House Charities.

While many families thankfully don’t have to be impacted directly by the RMHC, you never know when you will. For instance, when Jackson was born with a CHD, as new parents we spent months at Children’s Medical Center (now Children Health.) While we were just a few miles from the hospital, there were parents just like us in the Heart Center, going through the same as us, that were too far from home and would sleep on recliners and bathe in a hospital bathroom.

One family we met from South America did this for months just hoping to get the best care for their children. However, this happens way more than you think it does, picking up their lives to care for their kids. Many times parents would leave their job to be with their child at the hospital or even worst, families were split, with one parent at the hospital, and another parent at home to take care of the other kids or keep at least one job. Already serving 38,000 families since its opening, the RMHC helps families like these to stay together during times like these by offering a housing for families with 52 private bedrooms and six transplant apartments. Additionally, the House contains everything to make life possible when families are going through so much at a hospital including:

multiple playrooms for kids of all ages and interests
a library
media room
craft room
Chapel
meditation garden
outdoor play areas
Additionally two large communal kitchens and dining room provide opportunities for the families to share the evening meal, which is provided 3 times a day by community volunteers, or to prepare their own food if they choose.

While the RMH is a wonderful place it takes much more to operate an offering of this size, it’s the hundreds of volunteers that support the RMHD’s annual operations and fundraising activities to serving families at the House, preparing meals, and hosting organized activities that keep life going when some much of your world can seem to be falling apart. While families are asked to give just $15 per night to stay, no one is ever turned away.

RMHC’s Scholars Scholarship

The only way I was able to go to college was through scholarships and this is still the case for thousands of families in North Texas. The Ronald McDonald House Charities® U.S. Scholarship program is designed to provide financial assistance to eligible graduating high school seniors who face limited access to educational and career opportunities. Scholarships are awarded by the local Ronald McDonald House Charities®, with support from Ronald McDonald House Charities® Global and McDonald’s Corporation. Students are selected, and awards are distributed based on demonstrated academic achievement, community involvement/leadership and financial need. Since 1988, RMHC of Greater North Texas has awarded 1,555 scholarships to high school seniors totaling $2,354,500.

This month when you roll in the drive thru window or come in to grab a quick bite, you can feel a little extra that McDonald’s is giving more to the community.

How to Handle the Germ Season (with Kids)

November 7, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 6 Comments

This post is sponsored by CareNow and SheKnows Media.

When you have kids, you have illness. While it’s never convenient to be sick, here’s How to Handle the Germ Season (with Kids.) Just remember help is just one click away with CareNow.

Before I had kids, I considered myself a reasonably healthy person. From time to time, I might have to handle the flu or a bothersome cough, but I rarely had to see a doctor unless it was for my annual exam.

Then I had kids.

Now it seems like I’m sick, they’re sick, dad gets sick and then we pass it around for fun. It’s like a bad game of Cupcake Walk except there’s nothing sweet about it.

There’s those times when a little TLC, chicken soup, and a weekend in bed only result in your kid waking up on a Monday morning with the voice of a raspy old lady saying “mama, I don’t feel good.”

Unfortunately, just because someone in your family is sick doesn’t mean that life doesn’t keep happening…like work meetings, school projects, and all the other stuff in between.

Bottom line: you gotta stop the sick cycle in its tracks.

While washing hands, covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing, and the rest can do a lot, it’s not always going to the trick.

That’s why CareNow has become a bookmark on my favorites.

When I feel (or see) something coming on, or need to arm my family for the upcoming flu season, I just check us in online and wait where we want to, in our home, instead of in a waiting room. Once we get the notice that the doctor is ready to see us, we head into our nearby CareNow.

Upon arrival, we can check in, get almost instant access to be seen by a medical professional, and then get the care (and the prescriptions) we need. Then we can head home and begin healing. Best of all, if you need to grab an immunization or even get your kid’s physical for school, you can get it done at CareNow too.

Yes, it’s that easy.
1. Check-in Online (you can do it from your phone.)
2. Head to the clinic when you receive a call/message.
3. Check in at the nearby CareNow and wait shortly to hear your name.
4. Get the care you need.
5. Check out and get on your way with life.

The fact that there’s not much paperwork to complete (you can do it once online and then it’s stored in your account) and the waiting room has coffee and wireless, makes CareNow our go to for when we need care NOW and on our schedule.

About CareNow

When you are sick or injured, the last thing you need is a long wait at the doctor’s office or emergency room. You deserve quality medical care that’s also convenient. That’s why CareNow is dedicated to reducing your wait while improving your health. Next time you or a loved one is under the weather, visit a CareNow urgent care clinic to feel better fast. With over 112 urgent care clinics around the United States and 30 locations in DFW, CareNow is ready to serve you near your home, workplace or school. Their clinics are open 7 days a week and stay open late to provide care when you need it the most.

Family Fun Comes to the Run: New Features at BMW Dallas Marathon

October 16, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Life may already seem like a race, but the BMW Dallas Marathon is the one all of you can win. Register now for new family events before the price increases! #RunBMWDALLAS.

Thanks to the BMW Dallas Marathon for creating more ways for families to be healthier together and this sponsored post.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: I’m running in the 48th annual BMW Dallas Marathon
…with my kids.

Crazy, right? Especially since we haven’t trained one little bit.

But since two years ago when I saw the look of so much happiness and so much accomplishment stretch across my son’s face as he crossed the finish line of his first race, I knew what running a race together can do for your heart, your mind, and your soul. (Talk about tear jerker!)

But let me be clear: We ARE participating in the BMW Dallas Marathon on Saturday, December 8 in the new Kids Races!

The Kids Races (100m dash, 400m dash, 800m dash and 1-mile) invite the whole family together to participate in all the races for just $10 for the kids (12 years and under) and parents can run with their kids for free. This is just one of the new Saturday events added this year that includes a 10K, 5K, 2-mile walk, and 2-Mile Dog Walk (even your dog can join!) Paired with getting a t-shirt and finisher’s medal the whole family can be a part of the fun.

After the races, we’re headed to the second day of the FREE Health & Fitness Expo across the street at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. With “more than 40,000 attendees with 50-60 vendors catering to the health & fitness community within 100,000 square feet of Expo space,” we’re gonna double our steps that day (and learn a whole lot of info and load up on some fitness freebies). Plus with bounce houses, facepainting and other fun activities, the kids may never leave – and it’s ok since it’s free!)

BMW Dallas Marathon Health & Fitness Expo

When: Dec. Friday (11 am-7 pm) and Saturday (9 am-6 pm)

Where: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center (Hall C)

What I also love about the BMW Dallas Marathon is that the proceeds go to support Scottish Rite Hospital, which is something I can share with my kids that their participation helps other children just like them to get the help they need.

Actually there are many ways to get moving with the BMW Dallas Marathon:

BMW 5K Social Runs

I actually came across this last year when I participated in the one near my house. I wasn’t sure what to expect with a social run, but we (around 400-500 of my newest friends) got a shirt, had snacks, did a timed-run, and then got to celebrate with some liquid carbs (beer) and snacks. So this year, I was quick to sign up – because these social runs happen across the metroplex AND they’re free. They’re limited registration though, so it’s good to get on these fast – especially since they’ve already begun! Get the details.

The Big One(s) – The Marathon, Half Marathon & Ultra Marathon (50K)

I might not be quite ready for this one in 2018, but it’s definitely on the bucket list (who’s with me?) On Sunday, December 9, take on Big D in a whole new way by running in the marathon, half-marathon, or the new ultra marathon (50 MILES!!!) races (just

The BMW Dallas Marathon makes it easy for us to work on something together, be a part of huge event in Dallas doing something healthy as a family. While my bucket list still includes getting to the full 26.219 miles while day, this year is starting the path with both myself and my kids to do something together.

Get the full scope about the BMW Dallas Marathon, Dec. 7-9, 2018 here.

Surviving the First Big Accident

October 1, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 17 Comments

Motherhood is full of many firsts, unfortunately the first accident your child has is going to be one of them. However, you’ll both get through the first big accident with a little help from CareNow.

This post is sponsored by CareNow and SheKnows Media.

As a new mom there are many wonderful “first” moments you get to experience.

The first smile. The first laugh. The first time you plainly hear “mama” cross their lips.

Unfortunately, there are going to be many other firsts that don’t make you feel all warm and fuzzy.

The first real cold. The first tooth (when it’s coming in.) And the first accident.

Hopefully for you, a bandage and a magic kiss from mama will make that “first” moment all better. However, there is probably going to be that first real moment (as evidenced by Facebook feed) when a kiss isn’t going to make it all better. You need real medical help because there’s blood, pain, or a broken bone that you can’t make go away all by yourself.

(Yes, this is the part of parenting that really sucks.)

For me, I remember that “first” moment like it was yesterday. I had been home with my son for an extended maternity leave (about a year) working from home, and the time had finally come when I needed to go to a meeting. Until then, my meets were playdates – Jackson, me, and a diaper bag. I felt so anxious – first to put on adult clothes (those that once upon a time fit me in the work world, but now didn’t look or feel the same) and second because I had to talk to people about something else besides my new kid.

I was so *beyond* nervous. And the meeting was just one hour – you would have thought it was a whole week the way I was acting.

My husband took off a few hours to watch our little baby while I was out, and then I would return home to reclaim my throne of mama.

Should be a piece of cake, right?

When I rolled out of my meeting and turned on my phone to let the boys know I was on my way home, I found a voicemail from my husband already waiting for me:

“Hi Honey, (all nervous and shaky sounding), Jackson pulled my razor on him and he’s bleeding. It’s pretty bad. Call me when you’re on your way.”

Are you kidding me???

I rushed into our house and my husband gave me the play by play:

He was getting ready for work and Jackson was in the bathroom with him. For two seconds he turned around to wipe his face, and in that time, Jackson (who was beginning to crawl at the time), pulled the cord to his electric razor and it fell on him – the side of the razor just graced the side of my son’s face to create a cut along his eyebrow.

All I could see was the towel dotted red as I reached to hold my son, I was just devastated. Then, my husband had to return to work, leaving me to figure out what to do for our baby, who while bleeding, seemed to be reasonably content and unbothered by the events.

All kinds of things were running through my head, but I knew we needed to see someone now. I had often passed by a place nearby called CareNow. Although I wasn’t sure exactly how it worked, the name signaled that it was exactly what I was looking for.

As I entered the clinic, I was greeted warmly by the woman at the desk and she asked how she could help. Even in my crazy anxious state, she understood my gibberish and assured me that the doctor would see us as soon as possible. We took a seat in the lobby and in just a few minutes, our name was called and we were lead to a bed for them to take a look.

Once I was standing back from my son and the doctors, for the first time that morning, I took a deep breath.

It was gonna be ok.

The doctor let me know there had been no real injuries, just a small cut that required one.whole.stitch.

He was going to be ok.

In just a few minutes and a small bandage later, we were done and on our way home – all before lunch.

Thankfully, I was able to get the care now that we needed with a little help from CareNow.

About CareNow

When you are sick or injured, the last thing you need is a long wait at the doctor’s office or emergency room. You deserve quality medical care that’s also convenient. That’s why CareNow is dedicated to reducing your wait while improving your health. Next time you or a loved one is under the weather, visit a CareNow urgent care clinic to feel better fast. With over 110 urgent care clinics around the United States and 30 locations in DFW, CareNow is ready to serve you near your home, workplace or school. Their clinics are open 7 days a week and stay open late to provide care when you need it the most.

You’re Invited: McDonald’s July Lunch Bunch

July 2, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

McDonald’s is changing the way they do burgers and we’re totally here for it. Oh, and don’t worry. They’re not switching out their buns for pancakes so you can take a deep breath.

Thanks to McDonald’s for this opportunity to share this fun event with everyone.

Grab the kids and bring them to McDonald’s Lunch Bunch events as they present their new Fresh Beef burgers. You’ll be able to try out their new high-tech self-ordering kiosks and take a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour for a closer look at the operations. For the kids, there will be local firefighters on site showing them around their fire trucks. Plus, kids will receive McDonald’s coloring books and balloons!

Lunch Bunch will take place at the following McDonald’s restaurants in the Dallas, Fort Worth and East Texas areas:

Fort Worth Area – Tuesday, July 10 from 11am to noon
- 1298 W. Kennedale Pkwy Kennedale, TX 76140
East Texas – Wednesday, July 11 from 11am to noon
- 2034 E. SE Loop 323 Tyler, TX 75701
Dallas Area – Thursday, July 12 from 11am to noon
- 216 Coit Road Plano, TX 75075

Parents and attendees will receive a McDonald’s goodie bag and have the chance to enter giveaways for McDonald’s swag and gift cards. Plus, they’re giving away a free Happy Meal with the purchase of a Fresh Beef Burger.

McDonald’s is getting fancy with their new self-ordering kiosks. We love that we can still customize our meal to exactly how we like it. After ordering, they’ll bring your food right out to your table. No more looking for your ticket number on your receipt!

It’s no surprise that we’re most excited about the new, Mcdonald’s Fresh Beef burgers. Not only are they cooked to order, but they’re now made with 100% fresh beef! We’re all for the fresh ingredients that we don’t have to question – especially when it comes to feeding it to the kids.

Join us at your local to learn more about McDonald’s while meeting fellow moms and dads!

You can join the conversation on social media using #McDLunchBunch and #McDNorthTexas.

How to Buy a Car the Smart Way

In the market to buy car? At some point most of us are, so learn How to Buy a Car the Smart Way.

DEFINE YOUR NEED

RESEARCH

PAYING FOR IT

TRY IT OUT

SEAL THE DEAL

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Apple Cinnamon Biscuits

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Apple Cinnamon Biscuits

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

5 Holiday Reminders Every Mom Needs

Christmas is hard work. Take out the stress with Happy Cards and let the elves do the dirty work for a change.

McDonalds Gives More with #McGiveBack Campaign

McDonalds gets into the spirit with its #McGiveBack campaign this holiday benefiting the community with Pennies for Pounds, RMHC’s Scholars Scholarship, and Veteran’s Day.

Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2018

Pennies for Pounds

RMHC’s Scholars Scholarship

How to Handle the Germ Season (with Kids)

Family Fun Comes to the Run: New Features at BMW Dallas Marathon

Life may already seem like a race, but the BMW Dallas Marathon is the one all of you can win. Register now for new family events before the price increases! #RunBMWDALLAS.

Surviving the First Big Accident

Motherhood is full of many firsts, unfortunately the first accident your child has is going to be one of them. However, you’ll both get through the first big accident with a little help from CareNow.

You’re Invited: McDonald’s July Lunch Bunch

McDonald’s is changing the way they do burgers and we’re totally here for it. Oh, and don’t worry. They’re not switching out their buns for pancakes so you can take a deep breath.

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