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Peanuts to Pinot: Pad Thai with Spicy Peanut Sauce

September 13, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

Wonder what peanuts and pinot have to do with each other? Plenty. And we’re serving up a recipe for Pad Thai with Spicy Peanut Sauce to really show off this all-star Texas pairing.

Thanks to the Texas Peanut Producers Board for their partnership and giving me a chance to learn this legume in a whole new way.

To say I love wine is an understatement (and not in that mama needs her “sippycup” kind of way.)

I’m not a wine snob but a wine dork, one that really loves everything about wine and have for a long time (I actually wrote a research paper on the Texas Wine Industry and Tourism 12 years ago), took wine classes, and yes, enjoy sitting there just sampling wine. I love to travel to wine country (there is more than one you know) and am fascinated with how geography, science and passion come together to create a glass of vino. (See, I told you I was a dork.)

So when I had the chance to visit Lubbock (a perfect place for peanut making and the home of the Texas Peanut Producers Board) to learn about peanuts, I was interested to see agriculture at work, but didn’t know what to expect. Until of course, I got on the field to learn about peanuts (yes, there’s a lot that goes into peanut planting, processing and promoting!) and the relationship between peanuts and wine. (Bet you didn’t know there was one, huh?)

A Few Peanuts to Ponder:

One acre of peanuts will make 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches
Peanut butter is the leading use of peanuts in the U.S
It takes almost 850 peanuts to make an 18oz jar of peanut butter!

Many peanut farmers (like Mason Becker) are using some of their fields for grapes for the purposes of winemaking (or viniculture.) In fact many of the areas of Texas referred to as the “New Napa” like Fredricksburg and the Hill Country, actually grow their grapes in West Texas around the Lubbock area because the region’s climate is similar (and in many ways, better) than Italy and its European counterparts.

However, the idea of TEXAS wines, while not new to Texas as our first winery was in the 1600s by Franciscan priests, it certainly has changed in the last 20 years and thankfully for the better. Names like McPherson (Lubbock!), Messina Hof, Duchman, and Brennan are big names that have received some big accolades, but one of my favorites that I met was the three families behind Trilogy Wines.

A new winemaker, right out of the gate produced an award-winning Malbec that earned them several titles including Best of Class at the 2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. And while the Malbec was silky, vanilla and herby, it was some of their others like their Pinot Grigio that really got my attention (I bought a case.) But best of all, these guys had been growing peanuts before that in the same field that these amazing grapes were coming from.

So it got me thinking a lot about (and hungry for) peanuts and grapes, together. Not so much in that PBJ way (I’m not a fan for the record AT ALL), but more like in the pairing of these two Texas crops in dishes…like one of my favorites, Pad Thai. The combo of the fruit from the pinot, the creaminess of the peanut butter, and the crunch of those Texas peanuts, make it an all-star dish anytime. (And did I mention it doesn’t take long at all to make?)

Win-Win!

Shrimp Pad Thai with a Spicy Peanut Sauce

2017-09-13 16:42:38

Easy, quick and with a little spice, this is a weekday meal that's always nice!

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Nutrition Facts

Serving Size

1478g

Amount Per Serving

Calories 3417

Calories from Fat 1139

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 132g

204%

Saturated Fat 22g

110%

Trans Fat 0g

Polyunsaturated Fat 46g

Monounsaturated Fat 57g

Cholesterol 718mg

239%

Sodium 7676mg

320%

Total Carbohydrates 434g

145%

Dietary Fiber 27g

107%

Sugars 94g

Protein 133g

Vitamin A

492%

Vitamin C

397%

Calcium

62%

Iron

69%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your Daily Values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Does this look wrong?

Ingredients

12 ounces shrimp, deveined, cooked (you can use any protein, but shrimp is quickest!)
12 ounces of rice noodles (I prefer linguine but you can use smaller if you need to.)
4 tablespoons sesame oil
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1 cup carrots, shredded
1 cup peppers (I used a mix of red and green)
3 tablespoons garlic, minced
1/2 tablespoon ginger (super for your digestive system)
1/2 tablespoon turmeric (super for your immune system)
1/4 cup honey, local
1/4 cup creamy Peanut Butter
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari)
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
sriracha sauce (season to your liking)
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
Optional: cilantro chopped
Optional: lime, sliced

Instructions

Boil pasta as directed.
Drain and return to pot and 1/2 sesame oil and toss.
In another pot, heat rest of sesame oil over medium heat and add vegetables and spices.
Saute until tender.
Add honey, peanut butter, soy sauce and sriracha and simmer two minutes.
Pour sauce into pot with noodles and toss well.
To serve, garnish with chopped peanuts, chopped cilantro, and a quarter of lime.

Notes

Pairs well with a pinot grigio!

By Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com

beta

calories

3417

fat

132g

protein

133g

carbs

434g

mamachallenge | Dallas Mom Blogger | Parenting Blog https://www.mamachallenge.com/

Protein Packed Pumpkin Smoothie

August 17, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Can you smell the pumpkin in the air? It’s time to fall in love with pumpkin – and with this healthy protein packed Pumpkin Smoothie – get your pumpkin fix every day, all day, all year!

Thank you to Dairy MAX via One2One Network for this sponsored post that reminds us all being healthy can be easy, fun and taste so good!

In this world, there are two kinds of people: those that love pumpkin and those that don’t.

I fall very much in that category of pumpkin lovers. About August all of a sudden I get this craving for the feel of fall, the smell cinnamon, and the taste of pumpkin in everything. Perhaps it’s my name or the 100 degree temps in Texas that drive it, but it’s alive and well (and we show it.)

Unfortunately eating pumpkin pie all day, everyday isn’t going to do anyone any favors. On its own, pumpkin has some super qualities to impact your health from your eyesight, blood pressure and even your sleep. But if you really want to add a powerful punch, add dairy (cow’s milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.), to get nine essential nutrients and the protein you need to keep moving all day long.

At 8 grams of protein, you would have to drink 8 cups of almond milk to equal the amount in just 1 cup of cow’s milk.

Always on the go, this go-to pumpkin smoothie recipe will be your saving grace plus you don’t need to add protein powder like many smoothies because it’s already in there! In the morning I make this for breakfast for the kids and me before running out the door. And sometimes in the evening this smoothie is the ultimate indulgence without any of the guilt and all of the healthy benefits!

And best of all, it’s easy to make with pumpkin, milk, yogurt, pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice and you can also add a few other things if you really want to kick your health or your tastebuds into overdrive, you can add vanilla for a little bit more sweetness or turmeric for its anti-inflamatory and antioxidant properties as well as ginger (which also is a great combo with pumpkin (hello gingerbread!)

Throw these ingredients and some ice cubes into the blender and you’re on your way to an amazing smoothie that tastes good and is so good for you!

Healthy Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

2017-08-17 07:53:37

Serves 1

Have your pumpkin and drink it too! This protein-packed smoothie makes it healthy to have pumpkin pie everyday!

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Total Time

5 min

Total Time

5 min

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size

849g

Servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 380

Calories from Fat 35

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 4g

Saturated Fat 2g

12%

Trans Fat 0g

Polyunsaturated Fat 0g

Monounsaturated Fat 1g

Cholesterol 12mg

Sodium 153mg

Total Carbohydrates 78g

26%

Dietary Fiber 11g

42%

Sugars 52g

Protein 14g

Vitamin A

769%

Vitamin C

37%

Calcium

42%

Iron

24%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your Daily Values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Does this look wrong?

Ingredients

1 frozen banana (chopped into chunks)
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup full fat yogurt (i like greek style)
1/2 milk
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (I have a great recipe to make your own)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ginger or turmeric
1 cup ice

Instructions

Add all the ingredients into the blender in order and blend until smooth.
Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Notes

Using dairy in this recipe gives you a power-packed protein and nutrient punch!

By Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com

beta

calories

380

fat

protein

14g

carbs

78g

mamachallenge | Dallas Mom Blogger | Parenting Blog https://www.mamachallenge.com/

For important nutritional info on dairy plus delicious recipes, fun, games and the stories about the families that get it to your table, visit Dairy Discovery Zone. Brought you by Dairy MAX, the Dairy Discovery Zone is a non-profit affiliate of the Dairy Council, funded by dairy farming families across Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and southwest Kansas.

Keeping it Keto: Breakfast on the Go

July 17, 2017 By ads 15 Comments

Summertime is all being on the go, but it can make eating healthy harder! So we’re coming to the rescue with a quick, high protein breakfast without the bun!

This post is written by me on behalf of Tyson Foods, Inc. All opinions are entirely my own. This shop has been compensated by Acorn Influence, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone.

The other day I had to buy a bathing suit.

(Let’s pause as we all relish the angst that most of us get when this happens.)

Photo: Amazon Affiliate

Not exactly my favorite thing to do…however, I’ll admit this year’s UGH wasn’t so loud because I’ve actually lost a few LBS over the last few months. Lots of hard work, lots of working out, and lots of new changes to get me on the road to a healthier version of me. As a gal who does love her food and her wine, it’s hard to say no, but I’ve found out for me what’s been working the best is a diet of high fat, medium protein and low to no carb. For short, it’s referred to a Keto diet. While I could get all crazy about what you can and cannot eat, it’s really been easy for me to adapt to and not feel like I’m going to be eating salad for the rest of my life. (I’m actually never hangry and get to drink all the coffee without sugar I want!)
It’s been a process and certainly not a quick one, but for me and for my future self who greatly wants to be around when my kids are having kids, it’s the right one. Unfortunately I did have to break a lot of bad habits like running through the drive through every day as trying to find things without a bun or to eat a salad going down the road.

(Believe me I tried it and my car and my blouse did not appreciate the experiment.)

Now that it is summer and the kids are home I’m challenged with keeping this healthy eating routine going and still keep up with the crazy summertime (no)schedule. As a mama, I may love having my kids home during the break, but there is no doubt that the ever-changing days makes it hard to keep things structured for them much less for you. Whether it’s dropping them off at camp, getting to go for a quick day trip, or hurrying off to handle whatever the brings, I’m going to be working to keep us all sane and to maintain the healthy keto-inspired lifestyle in check.

Eggs are an excellent source of protein (and one of my favorite things to eat!)

While a Sunday prep day is a great answer to keeping it keto, there are just some days that it just doesn’t happen the way you planned, right? You wake up late, the kids can’t find their shoes, work calls or a girlfriend calls – whatever, you get my point! Life happens. And it happens a lot.

So when a beautiful homemade meal of sausage, bacon, scrambled eggs with cheese doesn’t fit in the schedule (you know that one you wanted to make but gets thrown out the window), Jimmy Dean still makes it easy and tasty with their new Jimmy Dean Simple Scrambles (found only at Walmart near the bacon, sausage and lunch meats.)

It’s like my new best friend since I can throw it in the microwave and with just about a minute, I have a hot breakfast (available with bacon, sausage and meat lovers) that’s high protein (like 20 grams plus), no carb and I can still eat in the car! Plus this way I can resist the drive-through urge to break my better way of eating and living (and keep my kids from wanting it too!)

I was pretty ecstatic to have prepped myself for those crazy mornings when I don’t know how I’m gonna get it all done and I gotta get out the door.

Then the little one figured out there was something to these Jimmy Dean Simple Scrambles and stole it. (Oh well, her allergies still allow her to get to eat these, too!)

Plus beginning August 2, there’s a .75 cent rebate on these babies so you can stock up when you use Ibotta (and a $10 sign up bonus!) So get yours now (and then) and keep your bathing-suit figure in check while handling all the crazy that comes your way!

What ways are you eating healthy on the go?

3 Summer Styles in Seconds

July 12, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 13 Comments

Summer fun got you in overdrive? Look cool while it’s hot with these 3 Summer Styles in Seconds.

Thanks to Sephora inside JCPenney for this sizzling summer style collaboration.

Is it just me or does the summer break not seem like a break at all, but actually one long sweaty marathon divided up into several 5Ks where you always feel like you’re in a sprint from one place to another?

Yep, they actually should call it the summer bustle and hustle as we parents try to fit in vacation, work, summer camp, pool time, playdates, a few holidays and hopefully an opportunity to enjoy a little fun in the sun.

Throw in 90-100 degree temperatures with that non-stop schedule, there’s no time to look good and keep it, all day long.

With a little help and just a few seconds, you can create some hot hairstyles that will make you look so cool (and keep you cool) all day long. Plus you can also give your tresses the care they need from heat from heat, chlorine, and product damage.

Drybar is easily one of my favorite multitasking secrets when you need an incredible look that lasts when your to-dos look more like Santa’s Christmas toy list. But what’s even better is that the blowdry bar has created one of the best product lines that keeps hair looking great anytime. For me the DryBar Detox Dry Conditioner helps to tame my summer mane, making my hair silky, shiny, and more healthy. Best of all, you don’t even have to head to Drybar to get it. Just head to JCPenney and you’ll find Sephora inside JCPenney with all your favorite hair, makeup and beauty needs.

Now just add a bandana, rubberband or even a little coconut oil, and you’re ready to take on the day – or at least look hot when you’re trying to stay cool.

3 Summer Styles in Seconds

1. Sleek Pony

You can never go wrong with a slick back pony tail. Whether you’re going for something casual or fancy, this is the do for you. Plus it’s easy enough that you don’t really need any instruction or even a mirror at that.

After blasting your strands midlength to the ends with the Drybar Dry Conditioner, add a little volume by teasing at the crown.
Then secure the hair with an elastic ponytail holder.
Section off a small portion of hair from underneath the ponytail, wrap around the elastic band and tuck the ends with bobby pins.
Optionally, you can use a short scarf like this one, to tie around the pony to add a little color to your look.

2. Banded Bun

Consider this your princess do (all while keeping your crown tucked and off your neck.) Spray a little Drybar Dry Conditioner to smooth the strands.

Tie a bandana like one of these (it comes in a two-pack) at the nape of the neck (keeping it at the top of the hair.)
Next begin tucking the ends up around the bandana.
Last use a few bobby pins to tuck in the ends and secure.

3. Wet Look

Did you just get out of the pool and have to run to the next activity? Don’t try to wash and dry, just go for the wet look. If Kim K. can do it, you can too!

After a few squirts of Drybar Dry Conditioner, flat iron the strands.
Then volumize the roots of the front half of the hair with a comb by grabbing a section of hair and teasing the roots from behind the section.
To complete the “wet look,” add a tablespoon of coconut oil to the palms and add to the top and sides of the hair.

To finish your summer look for where ever you need to go, add a fitted white jacket over a bright tank and short shorts paired with cork espadrilles and you’re out the door!

GET THIS SUMMER LOOK AT JCPENNEY AND SEPHORA INSIDE JCPENNEY

When You Need a Vacation from Summer Vacation

July 11, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 108 Comments

Need a vacation from your summer vacation? When you need a getaway to get away, then get ready for your Passport to Summer.

Thanks to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen for sponsoring this getaway to get away.

Remember the days when you looked forward to vacation, spent a few minutes throwing a bathing suit, sandals and a cute sundress in a bag, grabbed a passport, and took off without a care in the world?

But when you’re a parent, you don’t normally get to go on vacation. You get to go on trips.

Trips include intense research, dozens of Pinterest boards of itineraries, early morning phone calls to claim one of the few spots available for breakfast with princesses, and a spreadsheet or a notebook to collect all the confirmation numbers to keep things straight.

Trips take weeks to organize and pack everything for everyone so they are prepared to have a good time after you’ve stayed up for hours carefully rolling each item in their suitcase.

Trips are when you act less like a parent and more like a drill sergeant to stay on top of all the plans you’ve made so that you don’t miss any fun – although you aren’t really have any.

Trips are when you finally get back home and realize that you are exhausted from your trip and would do anything for a vacation.

And vacations…you remember them, right? Sand, water, magazines, salty air, creamy drinks delivered by beautiful smiling cabana boys.

(Take a moment and just breathe that all in.)

After a recent trip, this mama needed a vacation in a bad way. But with only a few hours away from the kids, a flight was out of the question. So the best way to get away was to take a getaway to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.

Just in time for my sanity (and yours), you can visit Cheddar’s Passport to Summer and enjoy their taste of the tropics with hand-crafted cocktails and menu. And what are friends for but to order them all to find our favorites!

Head to Hawaiian with a Maui Margarita, a combo of half strawberry, half mango, with kiwi and a shot of DeKuyper Cactus Juice.

Salsa with the Presidente Sangria mixed with Beso Del Sol sangria, Presidente Brandy and sweet & sour shaken with strawberries, fresh lemons, limes and oranges. Or party down with the Cheddar’s Pina Colada puree, splash of sweet & sour, topped with Myers’s Original Dark rum and garnished with a toasted coconut rim and fresh pineapple wedge!

Top off your day with an Island Tiki with Captain Morgan, Malibu rums, tropical mango puree, pineapple juice, sweet & sour and Blue Curacao.

But if you really want to go full on vacay in a big way, then you order the legendary Cheddar’s Painkiller (there is a two-drink maximum on that one so it’s definitely a quick way to paradise.) Filled with Pusser’s rum, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, orange juice, toasted coconut rim, topped with nutmeg, you’ll figure out why it’s called a painkiller!

And when you tummy catches up with your taste buds, you can turn up the heat with the Sweet Heat Chicken and Shrimp or the Grilled Tilapia and Shrimp with Mango Salsa. (And you can feel much better eating this than some of the things you do end up eating on vacation.)

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen has the menu for fun and the passport to summer, even if you only have an hour to take a vacation! Plus with such affordable prices, it’s way cheaper than a flight or hotel stay. And you don’t have to pack a thing.

WIn $50 Gift Card to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grand Opening: NEW Academy Sports + Outdoors in Rockwall

July 7, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 115 Comments

Whether you’re headed to the lake, the driving range, the gym, or just the backyard, you’ll find what everyone needs at NEW Academy Sports + Outdoors in Rockwall, Texas!

Thanks to Academy Sports + Outdoors for getting families active and sponsoring this incredible giveaway!

Do you or someone in your family:

Hunt
Fish
Enjoy being in the water
Play golf or tennis
Go camping
Enjoy grilling
Go running
Play sports
Love the cowboys
Wear sunglasses?

Well I could have just kept going…but I think you get my drift! With 100 stores now in Texas, Academy knows when it comes to families being active and enjoying the outdoors, no one gets you geared up like Academy Sports + Outdoors. This Friday, July 7 you’re invited to join in all the fun with some amazing deals and some even more amazing giveaways! (But if you can’t make it in store on Friday, join us here to get your own sneak peek from your computer/smartphone and we’ll show you!)

Academy Sports + Outdoors is already known as your resource for everything your need on sports + outdoors, but during this special grand opening weekend in Rockwall, you’ll find some big buys just like this ECOXGEAR waterproof portable speaker (that charges everything but your car! LOL!) Just check out that price. But of course, that’s not all…

Got a fisherman or outdoorsman that needs to stay cool when he’s outdoors (my dad swears by Academy’s exclusive Magellan shirts). Buy one, get one 50% off!

We couldn’t live without our portable chairs for hanging out with friends, festivals, concerts and just hanging by the pool? Less than $5 for one and available in every color of the rainbow!

But it’s not just the best buys that make Academy THE destination for everything sports + outdoors, but also the opportunity to get everything you need whether you’re an amateur or a professional in one place. Plus you can get hands on the equipment you’d be buying! With so many golf courses in Rockwall, they make it easy to get in and out on the course in no time at all! And that’s just for starters!

I can’t believe we’re already talking back to school (we’re halfway there) but for those of us with kids in sports like baseball or are gearing up for two-a-days for football, Academy already has what you need. So beat the crowds and get what you need now!

Need a backpack? Of course you will! If they don’t have a backpack here you or kids want, they don’t make it!

Academy is always our go to for shoes! With a family of four, you can be buying a lot of shoes just to get you started for the new school year. Thankfully, Academy has tons of brands available for you to try on – and not just running shoes for the big kids.

I love Academy for its perfect prices for toddler shoes! They have great styles to fit your tod, but you can actually afford to keep up with those ever-changing sizes at prices that fit your budget and their feet!

But it’s not just the toddlers – I love to stock up on Sperrys for both my son and for my husband! We love the look and the style, so we know we can rely on Academy to have our favorite Sperry style without the crazy lines at the shoe store.

PRICE MATCH POLICY

Academy is so sure they’ll have the best price for what you’re looking for, if you find the same exact somewhere else (i.e. Amazon or another retailer) for a reduced priced, Academy will match it AND reduce it by 5% when you show them the ad or online price. Here’s the details on their best prices in Texas!

SHIP TO HOME

Is your shoe size out of stock? Don’t worry, the store will happily order it for you and have it shipped to your home, free of charge!

In Texas grilling is always in season, but the summer time is prime time for bringing out the grill! Whether you’re smoking it, grilling it or looking to update the outdoor kitchen, Academy has a top-notch selections that you can buy now and be at home flipping burgers in no time at all!

Just check out the best buy deals for some sizzling prices on some of the best equipment! (I’ve my eye on this Academy exclusive brand Outdoor Gourmet Kamado Ceramic Charcoal Grill for less than $600!)

And of course, with a lake just steps away from the front door of the new Rockwall Academy store, you better bet water sports and fishing is front of mind. Whether you’re just throwing out the first catch with your kiddo or looking to invest in some serious rod and reel time, you can try out what you want at Academy. And with team members always available to help you, come loaded with questions for them to help you make your best buy of your own. Don’t forget to get your license here too!

Now are you ready for the YETI? Come out for the festivities starting Friday at 8 AM!

Friday, July 7 – Grand Opening Activities

FREE EXCLUSIVE ACADEMY T‑SHIRT

Event starting at 8am: First 250 customers will receive a free Academy t–shirt. Limit 1 t–shirt per person. Size selection and color vary.

YETI LINE UP AND WIN

Event starting at 8am: FREE YETI Rambler for the first 100 customers with a wristband. Two lucky customers will win a YETI Hopper Two 20!

BE A STAR PHOTO BOOTH AND SPIN TO WIN

$500 Academy gift card
Masterbuilt 40″ Electric Smoker (Valued at $299.99.)
Fitbit Blaze Fitness Watch
Pelican Premium Apex 100 Angler 10′ Kayak
Columbia^® PFG Thermal Tote

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

FREE Jack Link’s jerky samples
Kids fish FREE in our Shakespeare catch tank from 10am – 4pm
Hourly $50 gift card giveaway from 1-3pm

Saturday, July 8 – Grand Opening Activities

FREE MYSTERY GIFT CARD

Event starting at 8am: Be one of the first 150 customers in line beginning at 8am to show that you like or follow Academy on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram, or Snapchat and receive a FREE mystery gift card valued between $20 and $500. (ARV of all prizes is $4,870.)

KIDS FISH FREE, COURTESY OF SHAKESPEARE

Event starting at 10am: Make the catch! Kids fish FREE at our Shakespeare catch tank from 10 am-4 pm.

BE A STAR IN OUR PHOTO BOOTH AND SPIN TO WIN PRIZES

$500 Academy gift card
Masterbuilt 40″ Electric Smoker (Valued at $299.99.)
Fitbit Blaze Fitness Watch
Pelican Premium Apex 100 Angler 10′ Kayak
Columbia^® PFG Thermal Tote

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

The Carhartt Experience and FREE gift with a $50 or more Carhartt merchandise purchase from 10am – 4pm
Try on adidas for a Chance to WIN
FREE Brooks gift with Brooks shoe purchase
FREE Spalding Shoot-to-WIN game
Try on SKECHERS for a Chance to WIN a $50 Academy gift card
FREE Wolverine Enter to WIN
Hourly $50 gift card giveaway from 1-3pm

Get all the details about the Rockwall Grand Opening Celebration this weekend here.

Academy Sports + Outdoors

920 Steger Towne Rd.
Rockwall, TX 75032

Enter to win a $100 Gift Card to Academy Sports + Outdoors!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mama, You’re Fat: How The Big Fat Truth Changed My Life

July 5, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 19 Comments

Kids tell it like it is. Here’s How The Big Fat Truth Changed My Life for the better. Be sure to check out The Big Fat Truth on Z Living Sundays at 8pm ET.

“Mama, you’re fat,” my little brown-eyed princess told me as she stood looking at my more than 35- less than 36-year old body getting dressed in the morning.

As she said it, my reflex was to whip my head around so fast to blurt out a few choices expletives I’m often known to use. That’s what I had done the last 30 years of my life, so why would I change now?

But this was my daughter, my baby girl that in many ways is a mirror image of my younger self.

I couldn’t just yell at her and be bitter and mad and all that other stuff. Not just because as a mom and it’s my job to explain things, but also because I knew everything that was about to happen between she and I was going to be mentally recorded FOREVER for us both.

And she was right. No more pretending or excuses.

“Yes, baby, I am,” I uttered. And in that millisecond, all the times I had dieted, lost weight, gained weight, and all the yo-yoing in between flashed before my eyes. So then, with all conviction and more promise that I had ever felt in my life, I responded accordingly, “but don’t worry baby, I’m working on being as healthy as possible.”

See it was looking at her, looking at me, and thinking one day I hoped to be around to look at my granddaughter just as my daughter was looking at me, that I knew that now was the beginning of the next chapter of my life. But not to go on a diet because I was getting married, or because I had a big event I wanted to look good for, or because I was going on vacation and I didn’t want to embarrass myself. But for real, forever change.

Nothing Good Ever Comes Easy

So instead of heading to work out or a diet plan, I went straight to the doctor. I had several friends that had the sleeve surgery and had AMAZING results. They looked amazing. They felt amazing and they couldn’t say better things about how amazing the sleeve had been for them. I did my research and spoke with people relentlessly. This time it seemed I had a choice that would make sense and make a lasting difference. I signed up, got my appointment and begin my pre-op diet of protein, broth and water. However, as I approached my surgery date something happened. Some would say anxiety but for me, it was much more than that. This was a sign that this wasn’t my path. So, I canceled the surgery. And began to make a new path.

“Happiness is a journey, not a destination.”

That was February and it’s now June. Has anything changed?

Oh yes – it’s changed. Have I lost 50 lbs? Not yet, but I will. So far I’ve lost over 15 inches and 2 dress sizes. But I don’t have a goal weight; I have a goal for life. I didn’t go on a diet; I changed what I ate and how I ate. I didn’t go workout everyday all day.

But I did get help from a trainer to start a lifestyle that was realistic for me.

I didn’t let those same voices get to me and make me feel bad about myself for not being “good enough.”

I am good enough.

Not just to be a mom, but to take care of both my family’s future and myself.

The Big Fat Truth

But I did go looking (and found) encouragement and support to keep me moving, even when I want to stop and eat something that takes me backwards. One of those places I love to find motivation is through others’ journeys, not towards weight loss but a healthier lifestyle. Z Living’s newest show, The Big Fat Truth, deals with the real reasons people struggle with weight, and gives them the tools and the optimism they need to transform their lives. Using problem-solving and motivational skills, award-winning producer JD Roth (author and reality-TV pioneer, championing “transformation television”) takes on the challenge to help save the lives of our greatest unsung heroes.

Watch The Big Fat Truth on Z Living, Sundays at 8 pm EST.

Through their journey, I’m able to navigate mine as well with the encouragement I need in a real way that works for me. The show even has its own FREE Big Fat 30 Day Challenge to help get watchers motivated just like the participants on the show. I plan to keep you updated on my progress and how my journey isn’t as much about “losing weight” (which is nice) but about making the real changes that will make a bigger difference in the rest of my life.

Fun Out of the Sun: Grapevine Mills

June 22, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 33 Comments

Looking for the coolest places for fun this summer? Here’s the scoop on the sale you can’t miss and the fun you’ll find for the whole family at Grapevine Mills. #ThePerfectBag

Thanks to Grapevine Mills for this collaboration and giving us the scoop on the fun this summer.

The moment school let out, Camp Mama took over.

It’s a hybrid of family fun activities, carpooling to camps all over the map, and me still trying to keep everything else rolling and going without losing my mind.

Shop, Drop, Repeat.

When’s the last time you were at Grapevine Mills?

It’s a crazy day, everyday.

I try to mix it up with a little something we can all enjoy…summertime doesn’t have to be just for the kids, right?

So when the hot Texas summer takes over, we’ve found refuge at Grapevine Mills.

Recently the center finalized a multi-million dollar renovation, with sleek new flooring, lighting, seating and special details to make your experience more comfortable whether you’re dropping in for an hour or hoofing it for the whole day of shop ’til you drop. Plus many new stores and unique entertainment destinations has made Grapevine Mills on the top of our go-to shortlist.

Speaking of shortlist, you have just until June 30 to head to Grapevine Mills for their Annual Handbag Sale. Considering I’m always on the hunt for a handbag (I’m totally a bag lady), this sale features already hugely discounted prices on the hottest trends from some of my favorites like Saks Fifth Avenue OFF FIFTH, Banana Republic Factory, Francesca’s, J.Crew Factory, Guess Factory, Nautica, Steve Madden, Vera Bradley Factory Outlet and many more!

// GUESS //

// BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY //

// STEVE MADDEN //

AND THERE’S MORE (in my best Price of Right voice!)

Win the Handbag of Your Dreams Sweepstakes – Two lucky shoppers will have the chance to ‘win the handbag of your dreams’ through a sweepstakes hosted on Grapevine Mills’ Facebook page. All you have to do is comment with which one you love the most! The winners will be selected at random and will receive a Simon American Express gift card valued at $500. (The winners have to be residents of Texas and have the ability to pick up from Grapevine Mills.)

// PLUS FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN WIN $100 SIMON GIFT CARD FROM MAMACHALLENGE.COM//

Handbag Pop Art Display – Shoppers can get interactive at the 5’-by-10’ pop art handbag display in front of Guest Services courtyard near Victoria’s Secret. It will make a great backdrop for photos and Grapevine Mills encourages shoppers to take and post photos at the display and of their handbag finds using #ThePerfectBag.

FUN FOR EVERYONE

Shopping can be fun for some, but not everyone! That’s where Grapevine Mills also makes it easy for you to entertain the whole family especially with some of the NEW destinations!

The Escape Game / Located near the Food Court
Opening just a month ago, you can now choose your escape! The Escape Game is perfect for large groups, girls’ night out, date night, or just a new way to mix it up your day. Rated #1 “Escape Room” On TripAdvisor’s National Rankings, you and your team are locked in a room and have one hour to complete a mission and escape. Escaping requires teamwork, quick thinking, determination and a sense of urgency!

Fieldhouse USA / Located at Entry 3 by Burlington Coat Factory
Build on your sports skills or discover a new one! Fieldhouse USA offers summer camps for basketball, volleyball and futsal camps through August 15 for children ages 5 and up with the emphasis on 100% participation and FUN! Camp Add-Ons are also available to give your child a full day of sports fun all week long.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre / Located at Entry 5 with SEA LIFE Aquarium and AMC Theaters
LEGOLAND Discovery Center is the ultimate indoor LEGO® experience full of amazing play, creativity and building fun designed for families with kids aged 3-10 years. Plus with Pirate Beach, its outdoor waterpark (included with your admission), you can let the kids play with 30 water gadgets, splash through a 2o-foot-tall, 50-gallon bucket of water, while you chill in the shade (or get a little sun!)

SEA LIFE Aquarium / Located at Entry 5 with LEGOLAND Discover Center and AMC Theaters
Take a fascinating journey from the coast to the ocean depths through 16 themed zones at SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium. Get up close to thousands of amazing creatures and find out how it feels to touch a sea start and other creatures living in our interactive rockpool experience. With an amazing 360° ocean tunnel, 30 display tanks and thousands of sea creatures the aquarium is the perfect stop for family fun. (Plus it’s all in the A/C!)

Round One Bowling and Entertainment / Located at Entry 6 near the NIKE Factory Store
Whether it’s bowling, arcade games, karaoke, billiards, darts, ping pong or more, you’ll find it at Round One! At 80,000 square-foot game complex features a full bowling alley with 24 lanes that can accommodate up to 120 players, 2,603 square-feet dedicated to singing, and 12 tournament standard billiard tables can accommodate up to 48 players.

Don’t miss these guys at PUDDING ON SMILES! It will make you smile every time you lick your spoon!

AMC Theaters / West side of Grapevine Mills
Whether you’re looking for a comfortable spot to watch a movie or enjoy a full-on movie and a meal experience, AMC Theaters is perfect. Plus it’s close proximity to LEGOLAND Discover Center and SEA LIFE Aquarium, finish off the day with a movie (they’ll probably sleep on the way home.)

Mark your calendar and save the date for these great family movies this summer!

Despicable Me 3 – June 30
Spider-Man: Homecoming – July 7 – PG-13
The Emoji Movie – July 28
The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature – August 11

Want to win $100 Simon Gift Card to get your new handbag or try out one of these amazing destinations?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

June 22, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 67 Comments

Love the idea of grilling, but think it’s too complicated? We’re sharing the basics you need to get your grill on with our Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak!

Thank you to Market Street for helping all of us girls (and guys) get our grill on with this sponsored post.

Isn’t it funny that so many mamas take on the world (literally) every day, but when it comes to grilling think it’s too hard or should be left to the guys?

Just answer me this: Do you like the idea of biting into a juicy, sizzling steak? Do you like to entertain? Want to make a special meal for your special someone? Then you need to know how to grill a steak.

…But don’t worry, it’s not near as hard as you think it is. Now don’t get me wrong, grilling is just as much an art and a science as it is skill. I have the utmost for those that have mastered it, but we don’t have to be the best to have a really good steak dinner. And before you get any further down, here’s your real disclaimer: Grilling is subjective and everyone does it different.

However, we’re gonna give you the absolute basics to get your first steak from purchase to plate without much work, hassle, or slaving over a grill for hours. (Besides, who has time for that!)

Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

1) It’s all in the meat.

No matter what marinade you use, what you cook it on, or what you pair with it, you need to pick a great piece of steak. I honestly didn’t have a clue except that there was steak and there was hamburger meat. So off to Market Street I went to figure it all out when the butcher came out to help me (he must have seen the scare in my eyes!) He explained the cuts of meat so I knew what I was looking at and how best to cook it.

There are three basic classes you should know when it comes to your beef: Prime (best), Choice (better) and Select (good.)

When it comes to flavor, it’s all in the marbling or the little white flecks in beef – is key to flavor. The higher the amount of marbling, the higher the quality of beef.

When it comes to the meat, Rancher’s Reserve is always a great choice with 100% Angus beef that is juicy, tender and full of flavor.

Now for the fun stuff, the cuts! These four steaks all come from the same general area of the cow – the short loin, tenderloin, and the ribs.

TENDERLOIN // aka filet mignon / Boneless cut from the short loin and sirloin. / Most tender and most expensive cut of steak.

T-BONE // aka Porterhouse / Bone in cross section of the unfilleted short loin with combo of f tenderloin and NY strip. / Great taste but difficult to cook with two different cuts.

NY STRIP // Boneless & sometimes bone-in short loin behind the ribs. / Fine grained texture with some marbling.

RIBEYE // aka Delmonico /Boneless & bone-in cut from the rib cage. / Lots of marbling and fat pockets for the juiciest flavor.

The Ribeye is by far the best choice for new grillers. It’s more tender than the other cuts of beef and has lots of marbling, which means lots of juicy flavor!

When it comes to the cut, you’ll want to aim for 1 1/4 inch – 1 1/2 inch cut.

Don’t see any in the case? Then ask your butcher to assist you! Market Street will cut it to your specifications!

2) Season and Sit it Out.

Alrighty…this is where there are all kinds of opinions on the best way to make your steak taste perfect. What you put on it, how long you let it sit on the steak and how long you choose to put the steak in the fridge or at room temperatures varies as much as there are different opinions on how best to soothe a crying baby. There’s been tons of research, experiments, and lots of hot-headed opinions but for this first-timer’s steak: we’re keeping it basic. You’ll find your own way after you do it for the first time.

Take your steak out of the fridge at least thirty minutes before you plan to cook your steak. Pat your steak with a paper towel.

Add LOTS of kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to both sides (it’s going to seem excessive, but this will add the simple seasoning your steak needs. (Put it in your palm and let it fly!)

Let the steak sit at room temperature for around half an hour.

3) Get your Grill Going.

The biggest question here is: How are you planning to cook this thing!

Gas: By far the easiest way way to grill is on a gas grill. Turn on the tank, turn the burner, ignite, and close the lid for around 10 minutes when the grill hits around 425-450 degrees. Now you’re ready to roll!

Is it time to cook? Hold your hand about about four to six inches above the grill grate, palm down. If you can hold it one to three seconds before you need to pull your hand away, you’re at high heat.

Charcoal: Yes, you’re going to have to light it up! Starting with a clean grill like this one, lay your self-starting charcoal (it has lighter fluid in the briquettes so you don’t have to deal with it) in a grid pattern. Then light each corner and let it go! Close the grill and either using a thermometer or the hand method (see above), wait until the charcoal has lost its flame and beginning to turn gray.

Pan-fry: It never seems to fail that you make plans to grill and Mother Nature makes another plan! When you’re in a rush or weather doesn’t permit outdoor grilling, go with the iron skillet! Just put it on high and let it go (I also like to add a little oil and butter to the pan for even more flavor!)

Our fourth is sizzlin’…🎇 Ribeye, butter, garlic, rosemary and an iron skillet. All you need for the perfect steak. 🍽 Get your guide to yours on mamachallenge! (FYI Ribeyes are on big sale now at @marketstreet_tx!) #marketstreet #ad #fourthofjuly

A post shared by Autumn🌟mamachallenge.com 🌟 (@mamachallenge) on Jul 3, 2017 at 6:21am PDT

4) Let’s Get Cooking.

Alright, Alright, Alright! We’ve reached the big show!

If you’re making your steaks on the grill, then you’re going to wait to cook your steaks until they get to your specific level of doneness.

Rare // 120 degrees Medium Rare // 130 degrees Medium // 140 degrees

Medium Well // 150 degrees Well Done // 160 degrees

You can also use the finger test, but this isn’t always accurate as using this.

5) Dinner is Done.

To cut or to sit out, that is the question! One of the biggest controversies (yes, it’s that big of a deal) is whether you need to let your steak sit before serving. While there is all kinds of rationales for why you should and why you shouldn’t, but for me it’s simple: If you wait about 5 minutes after you take it off the heat, there’s less juice therefore less mess. So that’s my win-win.

Now let’s eat!

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10 New Reasons to Love Target Even More

June 20, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 184 Comments

Love Target? Of course you do! However, here’s 10 new reasons to love Target even more as they bring new changes with their recent renovations!

Thanks to Target for giving us a special look at the new changes and sponsoring this post.

Can you imagine a world without Target?

Even if you could, why would you want to?

There are few places I can think of that give me the convenience of getting a few groceries, filling my prescriptions, styling my home, and the opportunity to cruise quickly for something new (and out of budget) than Target. And let’s not even throw in the fact they meet you at the door with Starbucks. However, several Target stores in the Dallas-Fort Worth are going through a huge remodel to make Target even better (sounds like an oxymoron, right? But it is! We recently took a sneak peek at one of the newly remodeled Target stores and this is what we found.

10 Reasons to Love Target Even More

1. They’re making a big investment in DFW.

Target is investing more than $220 million to remodel 28 of 47 Target stores in the Dallas-Fort Worth market, the company’s largest remodel investment in a single market in 2017 (lucky for us!) All the remodeled stores will receive top-to-bottom overhauls, including a mix of design and functionality, taking a customized approach to each store location.

2. Almost There.

Twelve stores have already debuted their completed remodels and 16 remaining stores to be completed later this summer and fall! Customers will find modern design elements, including updated LED lighting, new paint, new floors and fixtures!

Already remodeled stores: Addison, Grapevine, Lake Worth, Weatherford, Fort Worth Central, North Dallas Coit Road, Mansfield, McKinney, Plano West, Watauga, and Frisco North.

Scheduled July Completions: Rockwall, Burleson, Waxahachie, and Euless

Scheduled August Completions: Love Field, Frisco, and Dallas North East

Scheduled October Completions: Medallion, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Mesquite, Hurst, Cityview, McKinney SW, Denton, Allen North, and Lewisville.

3. More Macchiatos.

Addison, Rockwall and Irving, you’re getting a big upgrade with new Starbucks are added to your Target stores. (Caffeine feeds the Target shopping machine!)

4. Real Inspiration Right in Front of You.

Forget just rows of racks. Target is giving guests an opportunity for more inspiration and style with new merchandise displays and mannequins throughout the store so you know exactly how that dress will look when it’s on a body!

5. Just for You!

Ever started shopping for clothes and found yourself looking at the teenage sizes (way off from what you need to be looking at?) Many other guests did too, so Target took the recommendation and now have create separate sections for teens, maternity, plus size, etc!

6. Grocery Goodness.

Taking a little inspiration from area farmers’ markets, Target has remodeled their grocery department with new wood-grain fixtures, updated floors, LED lighting, and products perfectly paired together to make a meal (everything you’ll need will be in one area and not spread out in different aisle for quick dinner making!) Plus many featured local products like Tupps Brewery.

7. More style, year-long.

Target is already considered a destination for style but they’ve added even better way to find style, year-round. Bathing suit season isn’t just June – August. Now you’ll be able to find suits throughout the year and in sizes for you (cup sizes will now count!) You’ll also find beloved brands like Cat & Jack kids clothes and baby brand Cloud Nine.

8. Quicker, Easier, and Better.

In a rush, no biggie with Target! They’ve added more self-checkout lanes for ease of guest check-out options including updates to the Order Pickup and Guest Service counter! You’ll now find a digitally connected experience with an updated Order Pickup counter and Ship from Store service, so you can get those Target.com orders even quicker! (And remember, there are already CVS / pharmacy there for that much more quick and easy shopping!)

9. One NEW App Solution.

Love couponing with Cartwheel but feel torn with having two apps to cover your Target needs? This fall you’ll find both apps combined together for one easy-to-use digital solution!

10. See if for yourself.

You may not need a reason to head to Target (you probably were on your way already), but we’re giving you a $100 Target gift card to see the changes for yourself!

NOW what’s your favorite thing about Target?

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Wonder what peanuts and pinot have to do with each other? Plenty. And we’re serving up a recipe for Pad Thai with Spicy Peanut Sauce to really show off this all-star Texas pairing.

Can you smell the pumpkin in the air? It’s time to fall in love with pumpkin – and with this healthy protein packed Pumpkin Smoothie – get your pumpkin fix every day, all day, all year!

Summertime is all being on the go, but it can make eating healthy harder! So we’re coming to the rescue with a quick, high protein breakfast without the bun!

Summer fun got you in overdrive? Look cool while it’s hot with these 3 Summer Styles in Seconds.

3 Summer Styles in Seconds

1. Sleek Pony

2. Banded Bun

3. Wet Look

Need a vacation from your summer vacation? When you need a getaway to get away, then get ready for your Passport to Summer.

Whether you’re headed to the lake, the driving range, the gym, or just the backyard, you’ll find what everyone needs at NEW Academy Sports + Outdoors in Rockwall, Texas!

Now are you ready for the YETI? Come out for the festivities starting Friday at 8 AM!

Friday, July 7 – Grand Opening Activities

FREE EXCLUSIVE ACADEMY T‑SHIRT

YETI LINE UP AND WIN

BE A STAR PHOTO BOOTH AND SPIN TO WIN

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

Saturday, July 8 – Grand Opening Activities

FREE MYSTERY GIFT CARD

KIDS FISH FREE, COURTESY OF SHAKESPEARE

BE A STAR IN OUR PHOTO BOOTH AND SPIN TO WIN PRIZES

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

Kids tell it like it is. Here’s How The Big Fat Truth Changed My Life for the better. Be sure to check out The Big Fat Truth on Z Living Sundays at 8pm ET.

Nothing Good Ever Comes Easy

“Happiness is a journey, not a destination.”

The Big Fat Truth

Looking for the coolest places for fun this summer? Here’s the scoop on the sale you can’t miss and the fun you’ll find for the whole family at Grapevine Mills. #ThePerfectBag

Shop, Drop, Repeat.

AND THERE’S MORE (in my best Price of Right voice!)

FUN FOR EVERYONE

Love the idea of grilling, but think it’s too complicated? We’re sharing the basics you need to get your grill on with our Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak!

Girlfriend’s Guide to Grilling a Steak

1) It’s all in the meat.

2) Season and Sit it Out.

3) Get your Grill Going.

4) Let’s Get Cooking.

5) Dinner is Done.

Love Target? Of course you do! However, here’s 10 new reasons to love Target even more as they bring new changes with their recent renovations!

10 Reasons to Love Target Even More

1. They’re making a big investment in DFW.

2. Almost There.

3. More Macchiatos.

4. Real Inspiration Right in Front of You.

5. Just for You!

6. Grocery Goodness.

7. More style, year-long.

8. Quicker, Easier, and Better.

9. One NEW App Solution.

10. See if for yourself.

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