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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.

Score: First Timers Guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium

June 22, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Dallas Fort Worth isn’t just home to the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers…there are several other national teams including FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium. If you’re headed to a game, then here’s our First Timers Guide to a FC Dallas Game.

Thanks to Toyota for an amazing afternoon kicking it with FC Dallas in my Toyota 2018 Camry and this sponsored post.

Being a Texas girl, I’ve done my time at the football game and many lazy afternoons at baseball fields. So I pretty much knew what to expect the first time I went to a Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium and headed to Globe Life Park (remember I used to be in walkable distance of there?) But my first professional REAL football (as called by the rest of the world AKA – soccer), I wasn’t quite ready at all.

So my friends at Toyota decided it was time to school this Texas girl on all things “football” at Toyota Stadium – home to the FC Dallas for its opening day. If you may not have heard of it, Toyota Stadium and Toyota Soccer Center is a 145-acre multipurpose sports and entertainment facility in Frisco, Texas. Home stadium for FC Dallas and hosts the FCS Championship Game, the Frisco Bowl as well a variety of concerts, tournaments and other events, this venue will also soon be the home of the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

The combination of a world-class stadium and a sports park make Toyota Stadium one of the best and most unique soccer facilities in the world. Included in the facility is the 20,500 state-of-the-art pro soccer stadium and 17 tournament-sized fields.

So we headed in a beautiful red 2018 Toyota Camry (talk about showing our spirit) to enjoy the fun…And man, the fun we did have as well as learn a lot about FC Dallas games.

Here’s our First Timer’s Guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium

Get Your Tickets

This might seem to be obvious but you actually can order tickets for the whole season as well as single games. There are several areas to also consider when purchasing your tickets including the East Field Box, Beer Garden and of course, suites as well as general seating. If it was up to me, I think hanging with the “real fans” on the field as part of the drum squad – they knew what was up. And our seats under the suites, but still in a covered shaded area were pretty sweet (because it’s HOT!)

AND remember: Children three (3) feet and under are not required to have a ticket for admission but must sit on the lap of a ticketed guardian.

Did you know you can also host birthday parties at Toyota Stadium or bring your work team for the game? FC Dallas can show ’em how team works happens – plus it’s a whole new way to kick it!

What to Wear

Like any sporting event, you want to show your spirit for the team with jerseys, shirts, hats, etc. Thankfully, many of us already have a red, white or blue clothing to donn for the day. You can always head to the Team Shop or FCDallasGear.com in advance as well, but whatever you do, just make sure it’s tasteful (ok to be around all ages that is!) Comfortable shoes and hat (to shield the sun) will be great. Also, make sure to throw on that first layer of sunscreen!

What to Bring

In effect this year the stadium has gone to a no purse/handbag rule except bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 14” x 6” x 14”. Of course there are exceptions which you can check online, but make it easy on yourself and just don’t bring it – unless it’s a flag – because those are ok (just check the policy first.)

If you plan to tailgate, then you’ll need to load up the car with what you need for proper tailgating, but leave your open air grill at home because they’re not allowed. Stake your space early as well – parking here like any game can get complicated!

Most of all, make sure not to bring any of the following because you can’t bring it in with you to the facility:

Items NOT permitted:

Weapons of any kind (i.e. knives (including pocket knives), pepper spray, stun-guns, slingshots, concealed weapons, firearms etc.)
Fireworks of any kind (including smoke bombs and flares)
No glass and plastic bottles, cans, cups, coolers, containers, food or beverages of any kind
Air horns, whistles, seat cushions
Illegal drugs or chemicals
Laser pointers
Cups
Bags larger than 14x14x6
Inflated Soccer Balls
Umbrellas
Animals (except service animals)
Un-approved pamphlets, handouts, advertisements, etc.
Skateboards, roller blades, roller skates, etc.

Thankfully, the booths mostly take credit cards, but cash sometimes makes things easier too when it comes to make things go faster!

Where to Park

It pays to drive a Toyota — especially to Toyota Stadium. If driving around a NEW Toyota Camry to the game wasn’t enough – if you have a Toyota you get the UPGRADE!

FC Dallas fans driving their Toyota vehicles to FC Dallas home matches will receive complimentary Toyota Preferred Parking located in the South Sienna Blue Stadium East Lot.
- The reserved Toyota Preferred Parking spaces reach capacity quickly and are available on a first-come, first serve basis.
- Fans are encouraged to arrive 60-minutes prior to kick.
Free parking remains available for all guests to FC Dallas home matches in all the Corolla Red Stadium West Lots, the Highlander Green Lots and the RAV4 White Lot.
Preferred public parking is located in the Camry Gold Lot. The Cost to park in the Camry Gold Lot is $20.

If you don’t come early to enjoy the festivities, then just know you’ll be walking a little bit to the other outlying parking. And it’s a bit of a trek with littles, so plan accordingly. (And remember, no bags and no rentry, so only take what you need!)

What to Expect

Everyone goes through security – no matter the age and has their items checked. The process is easy and once you’re in – the fun begins!

If you’re like me, you like to have a lay of the land – where the food is, where the exits are, and most importantly, where the bathrooms are. So take a look here to acclimated before you go. It’s easy to navigate once you get there as it’s an open space in a big circle.

Now what? Then let’s have some fun! Lots of red, white and blue (the colors of FC Dallas), lots of spirit, and a lot of Toyota love (of course!) This one is rather perfect, don’t you think?

As for the festivities – get ready and come for the full game so you don’t miss them! There’s fireworks, chants, and much more that aren’t always at other games! Make sure to take in the whole experience.

What to Eat

This might have been one of my favorite things I discovered about Toyota Stadium. Most stadiums may have a beer sponsor, but at Toyota, we have a tequila sponsor – Lunazul! So the margaritas here are really good – especially when you’re sitting in the heat! But that’s not all my friends… There was other great cocktails to enjoy too all around the stadium including an Old Fashioned and of course, several beer selections!

We may have covered the drinks, but what about the eats? There are 10 booths serving food at Toyota Stadium. You’ll find your usual suspects like fries, nachos, and burgers. But keep looking – you’ll also find some killer street tacos, elotes and even smothered tater tots! The food was legit and also reasonable, so this stadium gets a two thumbs up!

I hope this guide to a FC Dallas Game at Toyota Stadium helps you take on the day like a pro! You’ll have a great time and get ready for a lot of fun!

Make note if you’re visiting in 2018:

Imagine Dragons? Yes, please!

Mother’s Day Made Easy

May 8, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 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.

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.

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.

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

May 7, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 12 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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Doing More for Teachers: Sonic Limeades for Learning {Giveaway}

April 30, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 40 Comments

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7-11, but it shouldn’t end there. Join SONIC in making a bigger impact to help our teachers through Limeades for Learning. Plus help give directly to a teacher in need!

Thanks to Sonic for this opportunity to give back to our teachers and this giveaway.

I remember in 5th grade my teacher Mrs. Simms awarded a few students (including me) for a job well done with a trip to Sonic for tots and an ice-cold Cherry Limeade.

I still remember how proud I was that day.

From that point forward, Cherry Limeades would become the signal of other big milestones, some good and some bad, but the limeade was about helping to get me to the next big thing. And with each sip I was propeling myself towards being better, doing better, and recognizing when I done a job well done.

Turns out Cherry Limeades do that for a lot of people.

They taste good, but they also make them feel good, and also say job well done. Funny how just that styrofoam cup can do so much…just ask any teacher whose PTA brought in Limeades to say THANK YOU. Next week several volunteers plan to load up and do exactly that (and much more too) with activities to say “Teacher, You are a Star.” It’s a nice thing to do and the kids love it as well!

But you know what? Why stop there. Especially when teachers are still working throughout the year, including summers, with less-than-average pay and even chipping in more than $500 of their own money for supplies to make their classrooms better for our kids. So in 2009 SONIC has stepped up to the plate to help public school teachers do more with a little help, like $3 million dollars a year in help.

SONIC’s Limeades for Learning then teamed up 10 years ago with DonorsChoose.org to not only get them help for specific projects but also initiate donations on the smaller level that can make a BIG difference. More than $95 million to public school teachers nationwide has been funded by this partnership to get teachers what they need to teach and students the vital items they need to learn.

Here in Arlington there are several different projects like:

Mrs. Adger-Barton who is hoping to get money for LEGOs to help teach STEM education in her school.
Ms. Kilgore who is looking to get fresh school supplies for the new school year.
Ms. Sanson who hopes a book cart and stools will help encourage reading in her classroom.

Wonder about the products requested, pricing and more? The teacher actually provides the specific items, costs and details that are then verified by a member of the DonorsChoose team.

Don’t see a school you want to help fund or know a teacher that is in need of some special items for your classroom? You can learn how to sign up here and even have the first project matched.

Three times a year SONIC makes $1 million donations to public schools:

1. During the Fall Voting Campaign, which typically runs from late September through October
2. Throughout the months of January through April during a series of surprise funding events in cities across the country – as an example, today SONIC funded 75 teacher projects from across the country in honor of National Handwriting Day
3. Throughout the month of May during #ThanksTeach, a social media campaign encouraging consumers to thank their favorite teachers during Teacher Appreciation Month

And with your help and support by 2021 SONIC’s total contribution to local public school classrooms will exceed $20 million.

Want to make a difference in a classroom?

Enter to win a $200 DonorsChoose.org gift card now that can be used towards any public school teacher project that inspires you plus receive a $50 Sonic gift card for more limeade fun.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking

April 20, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

In today’s test-taking focused environment, we all have a part in making the grade. Help your kid do their best with 5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking.

Thanks to McDonalds of North Texas for sponsoring this post.

One of those less than fun moments is doing homework with your kids.

It’s rough, especially when you’ve had a long day and you just want to get everything scratched your ever-growing list of things to do before you go bed to do your “adult homework.” But it’s one of those things you’ve signed up as a parent and when they’re young, indoctrinating those good study habits is absolutely what’s necessary to lay the framework for them now so they aren’t asking you to help them with their homework when you no longer can help.

Read between the lines: Help them now so you don’t have to help them later.

And when it comes to the big test, it’s so important to give them what they need to ace it. All kids are different – some are awesome at test-taking and some not so much. But with a few strategies (for both of you), it’s possible to make it through school in one piece.

5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking

Engage.

“How was your day?”

Just knowing what your kid is working on is key to their success and can answer a lot about knowing where their focus is (and isn’t.) In the evenings, homework is something we do as a family and as parents we try to take turns at overseeing and helping our kids. For us, this is so the kids know it’s a priority so they should to. Another reason engaging with them is that we know what parts are easy for them (and not so easy) and you can work on it together. From there we can reach out to their teachers if necessary when a concept isn’t catching on. Having an open line of communication with your child’s teacher is so vital to ensuring so when it’s time to take the test, we aren’t finding out the problem when it’s too late.

Encourage.

We all know that getting the pat on the back feels good and makes us want to do the right thing again and again. At our child’s school, during big tests we as parents were asked to write letters for the kids to open before taking their test to inspire them and help mitigate any anxiety the kids have before taking a long test like the STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness.) A post-it in their lunchbox or backpack can do the same thing to show you are in their corner.

Nourish.

Good sleep and a nutritious meal before a big test is such a simple, but necessary way to set them up for success. There’s nothing worse than feeling groggy or hungry to get in the way at the task at hand, especially during a long standardized test. And studies show that when kids get at least 8-10 hours of sleep and eat a healthy, balanced breakfast they do better at test-taking period.

Our local McDonalds of North Texas, with 363 restaurants throughout DFW and Tyler, works to help parents with this easy step by providing a free healthy breakfast the day of the STAAR test, Texas’ standardized test. They know parents are rushed in the mornings and just finding a few moments to take breathe and eat a breakfast will go the extra mile. The free breakfast options like the Egg White McMuffin Delight, apple slices and oatmeal are part of McDonald’s Dietitian Approved Menu, part of the fast food giant’s commitment to education and offering healthier options for families. When it’s free and healthy, McDonald’s makes it rather difficult not to make this strategy a no-brainer and to show how it important it is to make healthy happen.

Recognize.

After all the buildup of a big test, it’s good to show credit where credit was due, especially if you find out your child did gave a good effort and even more so if they scored well. They should be rewarded, especially for the big test, but that doesn’t mean it has to be big. It could be something as small as grabbing an ice cream cone and a little playground time that will reinforce a job well done is worth the effort. And what if your kid doesn’t do so great, but you know they did their best? Punishment isn’t going to help them do better, so encouraging them to still get it their all every time will reap success in the long run.

Support.

Yes, it’s good to say a job well done, but sometimes the test doesn’t always go well. That doesn’t mean kids shouldn’t feel your support and hear the words “I’m proud of you.” For instance, I asked my son how a test went and I found out he had tons of reading time because he was the first to finish. Later after we received his results, it wasn’t that he knew the material that well, but it was that he wanted that extra fun time to read. So the next time I spent a lot of our studying explaining the importance of taking our time and checking our work, not being the first one done. This was so important for us to learn now so the next test he was armed with better test-taking strategies.

No matter their age, being a parent doesn’t just mean that their education is the responsibility of their school. As a community, we all have to work today together for the success of their future tomorrow.

About McDonalds of North Texas Commitment to Education

In addition to providing healthy breakfast during the STAAR test, McDonald’s continues to show its commitment to education. In addition to this program, the Archways to Opportunity™ program helps its employees further their own education and achieve their dreams by offering English classes, earn a high school diploma, work towards a college degree and help create an educational plan for success. There are also scholarships opportunities and tons of other resources on the website.

My Princess Moment: This Weekend!

March 14, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Spring Break just got a lot sweeter for your little princess! Make it a royal weekend with “My Princess Moment” in Fort Worth.

Laying there on the table, looking up on the ceiling, I remember when I was told I was having a girl.

Visions of all things pink and princesses came flooding through my brain.

Since that day seven years ago, I’ve had time to adjust to all things sparkles, tea parties and seeing all things through pink-tinted glasses. So when I see anything princess I know it’s a must for mine.

My Princess Moment is a special event coming to Fort Worth this weekend, Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17.

My Princess Moment waves its magic wand to bring an awe-inspiring experience to Fort Worth, where magical moments make lifelong memories. Bring your little princess to meet her favorite princess while enjoying fun activities! The Grand Ballroom for special meet-and-greets, Royal Tea Party, a Party Dance Party and Princess Photo Session.

Afterward make a royal evening of it in Sundance Square which is just a few steps away with tons of restaurants and the beautiful water fountains!

Save 25% off a maximum of four General Admission or VIP tickets when you use the promo code MPM_PK25 here.

More about My Princess Moment. It’s a princess dream come true! General Admission access allows junior princesses a two-hour progressive experience from the ballroom, to a tea party, to one-on-one picture time with their favorite Princesses. A VIP Package is also available, which includes a salon experience with custom hair, makeup, a VIP Princess accessory and a free digital copy of their picture with the Princesses.

Online tickets are $39-$50 for general admission. VIP tickets are available online from $50-$109 are $50.00. Kids 12 months and younger do not require a ticket. Ticket prices increase at the door, so purchase in advance online and save!

Mom Tip: While there’s free valet, consider nearby parking so you don’t have to wait when you’re ready to leave!

To learn more about My Princess Moment, visit here. Get social with My Princess Moment on Facebook and Instagram with #MyPrincessMoment.

Norris Conference Centers at Sundance Square
304 Houston Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Hop into Spring Easter Basket Idea

March 6, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 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.

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!

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!

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.

“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.

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.

What are your Easter traditions?

Out with the Old In with the New

March 1, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Need a fresh start? Whether you’re cleaning out your closet or doing a full-on purge, it’s can help more than just you. Let “Out with the Old In with the New” do more with O, The Magazine + Talbots.

Thanks to O, The Oprah Magazine + Talbots for partnering with me to share this give back campaign.

Each year around this time, I do some housecleaning.

Spring cleaning, if you will.

I go through my drawers. files, the pantry, the fridge, and even my panty drawer – everything – to get rid of the “crap.” Actually it’s not crap, but the stuff that I don’t use and I don’t need any more. And to be honest, normally I figure out I didn’t ever need it in the first place.

But that’s not all.

My clean out every year is both physical and mental. I’m not just cleaning out my closet, but I’m attempting to get rid of all the *bad* stuff from last year and create and restock on the good.

It’s my way of reflecting. And it’s not necessarily easy either. I work through ~~some~~ a lot stuff and this year has been a biggie; trying to figure out my plan what’s next.

What’s best for my family, what’s best for my career, and most of all what’s happiness to me.

Basically, just like the seasons, spring is time to grow and bloom, but it takes time. And I lack patience.

But this year’s “spring cleaning” had a big change when I literally had to clean all the closets…and the cabinets, and the garage…and everything else in our house.

Needless to say after 12 years in a home, I have a lot of clothes. And going through each one I still remember what I was doing, where I was, and who I was with when I last wore it. And some of those name-brand frocks hadn’t been worn in a REAL REAL REAL long time. But they were important to me – like my first black power suit and a beautiful Prabal Gurung dress. #prebaby #highschool

Don’t you just love scarves? I wore them in high school and adored them. So I’m staging a comeback.

So I had tons of clothes that looked brand new that needed a good home (after I tried to put them on one last time and cried a little.)

And just like spring; my time with the clothes was over, but there had to be somewhere that someone could enjoy them just as I had.

For a third year O, The Oprah Magazine Collection for Talbots opened on Feb. 20 at retail and online. The limited set of pieces included red, white and blue pieces that can be work with spring and summer staples. And don’t forget one small, but important detail: the ladybug.

Talbots is also encouraging women to clean out their closets and will accept “nearly new” clothing and accessories in its 435 locations March 1 to 4. Consumers can also pitch in by purchasing items from the O, The Oprah Magazine Collection for Talbots collection. Thirty percent of net proceeds from those purchases will benefit Dress for Success, which helps women return to the workforce. Cash donations can also be made in stores now through April 1.

Considering I’m always a big fan of a great cardi – especially one that can be made to dress up or dress down, I loved this sweater. And the details in the buttons, along with the ladybug detail, makes this a staple piece throughout the crazy Texas weather.

So go now to your closet, take out the stuff you may still love and have been holding on to, but haven’t worn. It may be ready for a new chapter for a new woman.

And you’ll have some room to make a new chapter for you. I know I’m ready to write a new one for me.

To date the “O-Talbots tie-up” has raised more than $3 million in monetary contributions, collected 60,000 articles of clothing and helped to impact 60,000 women’s lives.

Dive Into Cirque Italia Aquatic Spectacular

February 28, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Trying to find a fun plan for Spring Break? Dive into Cirque Italia Aquatic Spectacular – in Hurst, Texas.

Thanks to Cirque Italia for bringing something special to the MidCities and this sponsored post.

We have a lot happening during spring break – too bad it doesn’t include a vacation. But I don’t want the kids to miss out on doing something fun and hopefully different than any other time of the year. Things are definitely different with Cirque Italia – coming to North East Mall (go Midcities.) With its state-of-the-art technology and cool use of water, it should keep us all on the edge of our seat.

Keep reading through and I will share how you can get your children’s tickets FREE!

About the Show

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “Aquatic Spectacular?” You can expect all these things and so much more from the brand new themed Cirque Italia production with its perfectly fitting new title. After six years of enhancements, a rigorous casting selection, and countless performances nationwide, this newest form of Cirque Italia’s innovative and unique “traveling circus” spectacular production is set to be its finest to date.

Aquatic Spectacular came to life all thanks to its imaginative creator Manuel Rebecchi, along with invaluable direction and production management by Chanté DeMoustes. Cirque Italia’s brand-new theme show is an artistic blend of human abilities, technology and the element of water. This one-of-a-kind production combines water fountains, jet-skis, pirates, and more in a fun filled atmosphere all ages are sure to enjoy.

Performers from all over the world have been brought together under the enchanted spiral of the white and blue big top. The merging of their astonishing skills with the poetic element of water has led to the creation of a truly unforgettable experience. Cirque Italia has managed to create a beautifully unique theatrical production by combining the gracefulness of the human body with the calming fluidity of water, along with bursts of power and excitement as well.

Aquatic Spectacular offers two hours of high-end entertainment. Beautiful aerialists dazzle and shimmer on a chandelier high above the ground, but they aren’t the only ones that will draw your eyes toward the sky. You can expect to see contortion in a bubble, a Venetian aerial duo, and even someone hula hooping while in the air. Don’t worry about getting your eyes checked, you aren’t seeing double; there are TWO lasermen. Duo jugglers, duo roller-skaters, the always breathtaking wheel of death…the list goes on and on. Let your imagination wander, because anything is possible in this new whimsical production.

One might be concerned that such a spectacular entertainment opportunity is out of his/her price range, but Cirque Italia is committed to bringing a Las Vegas quality production to your hometown at an affordable price. They also feature many special offers and promotions.

Event Info for Cirque Italia at Hurst

When: March 9-18

Where: North East Mall

At: 1101 Melbourne Rd, Hurst, TX 76053

Located: corner of NE Mall Blvd & Cheryl Ave. between Dillard’s and Best Buy in the parking lot

Under the grand White and Blue Tent:

March 9- Friday: 7:30pm
March 10- Saturday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm
March 11- Sunday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm
March 12- Monday: 7:30pm
March 15- Thursday: 7:30pm
March 16- Friday: 7:30pm
March 17- Saturday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm
March 18- Sunday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm

Box Office Hours

The box office opens on-site on Tuesday, the week of the show.

Non-show days: 10 am – 6 pm

On show days: 10 am – 9 pm

Tickets can be purchased now, starting at $10.00 through$40.00 depending on availability. You can purchase tickets through their website, at the door, and by phone at 941-704-8572.

FREE Child Admission

Cirque Italia offers one free child admission with every full priced paying adult ticket in levels 2 or 3, using the code in the image below.

This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or deals.

For more information visit www.cirqueitalia.com.

Get Social with Cirque Italia

Twitter: @CirqueItalia

Instagram: @cirqueitaliashow

Facebook: @cirque.italia

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.

Dallas Fort Worth isn’t just home to the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers…there are several other national teams including FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium. If you’re headed to a game, then here’s our First Timers Guide to a FC Dallas Game.

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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.

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

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In today’s test-taking focused environment, we all have a part in making the grade. Help your kid do their best with 5 Ways How to Help Your Kid with Test-Taking.

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Engage.

Encourage.

Nourish.

Recognize.

Support.

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Need a fresh start? Whether you’re cleaning out your closet or doing a full-on purge, it’s can help more than just you. Let “Out with the Old In with the New” do more with O, The Magazine + Talbots.

Trying to find a fun plan for Spring Break? Dive into Cirque Italia Aquatic Spectacular – in Hurst, Texas.

About the Show

Event Info for Cirque Italia at Hurst

Get Social with Cirque Italia

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