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GO: Biggest Baby Shower Ever

April 11, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 106 Comments

Expecting or a new parent? If you want to get the 411 on all things baby, obviously anything called the Biggest Baby Shower EVER is the answer! One night, one event, and one huge gift bag!

Thanks to Big City Moms for being a mamachallenge sponsor and showing this Dallas mama what it really means to go big or go home – especially when you’re preggo!

It wasn’t *that* long ago that I was a first-time preggers working to figure out what was the best stroller combination, what bottle system was best for us and the biggest new mamachallenge of them all – what diaper bag I was going to carry. I asked everyone, I searched online, I talked in forums, and I paced the aisle of EVERY baby department store.

I didn’t always find the right answer either and even after both my kids are past the baby age, I still have baby stroller envy (and I had a total of six strollers.)

If only there had been one place to go to, to learn about all the stuff – from diapers to daycare – that I was going to need to prepare me for motherhood in Big D.

And of course, a few years later, there is.

What is the Biggest Baby Shower Ever?

Big City Moms has revolutionized the baby business with their signature event, The Biggest Baby Shower Ever™. A pop-up, one-night show that happens around the country in places like NYC (actually they get two), Washington D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and now Big D. With celebrity endorsements and appearances, this is really the only shower you’re going to want to go to besides your own.

Since I’m no longer growing a baby (however, could be mistaken with my own bump), I hadn’t heard of this shindig before it came to town. HOWEVER, shortly after I got there to Sixty Five Hundred on Cedar Springs, I figured out very quickly, that I was out of the loop! There were so many mamas and daddies there ready to learn, touch, meet and go home with the coolest, most-cutting edge and best baby products on the market. While I did recognize many of my favorites like Pampers and Petunia Picklebottom (I still want one of their bags that are now even cuter and have a place for my laptop), there were so many new companies out there to learn about, both locally and in the industry.

What Can You Expect at the Biggest Baby Shower Ever?

If only I had know that there was a baby nurse service that would get your kid in the groove while you caught a few hours of shut eye?

And if breastfeeding has those tatas in a tizzy, no worries, someone will help you come to your house and show exactly how to do it.

Having issues with your milk supply? Eat some Boob Food and your supply will increase by 5%.

It was about halfway through walking this event where I just looked around and said “Where was this event when I was expecting?”

Of course, you wouldn’t put a few hundred expectant mamas in one spot at 5:30 pm without food either. The food was phenomenal with everything figure foods including the most adorable Sprinkles cupcakes with baby bottles and mocktails. However, there was a local brand called Mom’s Buns that I could have filled my swag bag with and ran!

But just because I wasn’t an expecting mama didn’t mean I didn’t learn! I found out about several new products for those with allergies (i.e. my family), listened to some great info from local experts, checked out new items from Matilda Jane (Taylor’s decided that Joanna Gaines is making them just for her) and also may have finally found the perfect stroller – it takes no time to have folded and you can do it with one hand – really! And there were massages too!!!

I almost reconsidered pregnancy, but remembered, I still had two at home I needed to raise first!

What You Get at the Biggest Baby Shower Ever

But as great as the event is, it is the gift bag that’s gonna really make your day! Depending on the level of ticket you purchase, you not only walk out with tons of samples, new products, and more, but some of the staple items you’re going to need to start your baby collection. From bouncers to buggies, I saw it all being escorted out with everyone. It actually looked like we were looting a Babies R Us.

Just a few of the brands included in this amazing gift bag:

Pampers
Huggies
Earth’s Best
Kabrita
Happy Tot
Enfamil
HappyBaby
Oilogic
Smarty Pants
Nosh
Dr. Brown’s
Baby Bjorn
Viva
Fresh wave
Cetaphil
bolli
summer
babyganics
june & january
Once Up a Farm

Swoon, right? But what am I going to do with all this loot? Yep, one lucky mama is going home with the 4Moms bounceRoo!

(From the 4moms website:) The 4moms bounceRoo is the only bouncer with 3 unique vibration modes (heartbeat, wave and bee) and 3 intensity settings to help calm and soothe your baby. The bounceRoo also entertains with a fun, natural bouncing motion created by your baby’s movement. The lightweight and compact design is easy to move around the house or take on the go. The bounceRoo is available in the classic seat fabric (dark grey) and has a smooth, woven surface. Machine washable.

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Light Up the World with Just a Switch

April 10, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

You can make a difference in the world with just a flip of the switch.

When I was in my 20s, I was ready to save everything. I wanted to save the rainforest, I marched for Gay Rights, I raised money for HIV/AIDS…you get it, I was active about giving back.

Actually it was my activism that started me in the blogosphere. I wanted to share my experience of having a CHD baby and through my story met so other moms JUST.LIKE.ME.

That was engagement. That was connection. That was real.

However, as a mom, while we are championing the efforts of our children, sometimes it gets hard to champion the other things that fill our hearts. It’s not that we don’t want to make an impact, but you just can’t always make time to make a difference in the world beyond your own home…

And as a parent we also feel compelled to teach our children to not just be good, but also to teach them to do good. Social responsibility IS something we should all do but it’s not always activism, but being smart about working with businesses that make activism part of their platform, too.

Direct Energy had a bright idea to actually make it THAT easy to make a change…just by turning on and off your lights.

Direct Energy recently partnered with MPOWERD to bring their solar Luci light to the developing world. For everyone who participates in Direct Energy’s Give Brighter 12-month plan, MPOWERD will send one Luci light to a developing part of the world, and to you!

1.5 billion people in the developing world live without electricity. That means when the sun goes down, women and children walk home in the dark. Or a health clinic can’t stay open. While many turn to kerosene lamps, they are dangerous to use, expensive to buy and maintain, and toxic to individuals and the environment.

Luci lights were created to provide a safe, efficient solution to help end life in the dark. Luci lights can shine for up to 12 hours on a single charge.

In every way life is impacted by a little Luci light, there is a big opportunity for a brighter future.

Learn more about the Luci Light and Direct Energy’s 12 month plan.

What other organizations do you think do a good job of social responsibility?

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Direct Energy. The opinions and text are all mine.

Celebrating the Not So Special Moments

February 24, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

When you have kids there is always a reason to celebrate – a missing tooth, a good grade, 100 days at school. But sometimes celebrating the not-so-special moments are the ones that really count.

Thanks to PF Changs for making our not-so-special day so special. Sponsored by Mirum Shopper. Opinions are 100% my own. #CelebrateTheEverydayWM

This day had been coming for so long.

The dress had been selected.

The shoes laid out.

The corsages bought.

It was time for the Daddy Daughter Dance and then they were off!

Such a special night for my daughter and her daddy…

But what about me and the boy?

We weren’t going anywhere special. We weren’t getting dressed up.

We were home together. And nothing special to do.

So we decided to make it special.

It was our not-so-special special date night.

One of the things we love is Chinese food. Unfortunately due to some allergies in our family, we don’t get to go out for Chinese food near as much as he and I would love to. We love Chinese food. LOVE.

Jackson’s favorite? Broccoli Beef. Hands down.

Earlier in the week I had gone to a Walmart run and stocked up on a few items including P.F. Chang’s Meals for Two – Broccoli Beef to surprise him when he really wanted Chinese.

So our impromptu evening was the perfect time to surprise him with our own Chinese dinner. Chopsticks and all.

So easy and quick, we had our own P.F. Chang’s night-in with simple ingredients like marinated beef and crisp broccoli drizzled with savory garlic soy sauce.

For dessert we headed to the couch for a little TV time with a side of snugs.

These moments don’t come often enough.

One day I’m sure they won’t happen at all. It’s the normal course of how things happen as kids grow up and sometimes, away. However, I can hope that we’ll both appreciate a stolen moment, even if it’s only for a second. It’ll be worth it. Every. single. time.

I think our not-so-special moment was more special than we could have imagined.

Make your own opportunities for the special not-so-special moments.

Dinner Served on the Go: A Day in the Life of a Busy Mom

February 16, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 10 Comments

“What’s for dinner?” You’re bound to say it, think it, and hear it at least once a day. But when you’re a busy parent, it’s one of many things YOU have to solve. Here’s how Autumn of mamachallenge.com and her family work to get dinner on the table with la Madeleine.

Thanks to La Madeleine for sponsoring this post and making meals possible when everything else isn’t.

There’s really not such thing as a normal day. The more I plan, the more it goes awry. But a mom’s gotta try, right?

Here’s a typical rundown.

5:15 am // My iPhone softly begins chirping to get me up and go to the gym before the kids wake up. I argue with her, hit the snooze and return to dreaming about vacation, organized closets, and clean dishes (mom stuff.)

6:30 pm // The iPhone’s ring has upgraded to a siren and the hubs and I both wake up like a fire drill. We charge upstairs to wake up the kids, argue about outfits (because we forgot to lay them out the night before), and head to the kitchen for breakfast.

7:00 am // Breakfast for the kids consists of anything from yogurt, waffles, sausage or whatever else we can pull together. They eat while I throw together my daughter’s lunch.

7:05 am // While they eat, I find a few minutes to pop in my K-cup, grab my favorite mug and fill it up with cream. The sound of the Keurig dripping into my coffee is the most beautiful sound in the world, next to my kids saying “I love you.” On some days I’d say the coffee wins. (I’m a big fan of la Madeleine’s French Press to get me moving. Pronto.)

7:20 am // Hair, teeth, and whatever else is squeezed into our last 10 minutes before we have to jet to school to make the line and the bell.

7:30 am // My kids head to the car with the help of their dad and load up while I slap on my workout wear so I drop them off in something besides my pajamas and to motivate me to head directly to the gym. I run to the car and we jet to school to get into the drop off line.

7:50 am // We made it before the bell rings! I pull over and hit up my phone for my first round of emails to make sure what’s sitting in front of me for the day. A quick look lets me know what needs immediate attention and what can wait until 9 am.

8 am // Let the delayed workout begin. On some days I hit up spin class, others I run the treadmill, or when I’m lucky, I get to work with my trainer to really make me do the stuff that I need to be doing for around an hour or so. This year is about my health so I’ve made this a priority so I can be a good example to my kids. I wobble to my car.

9 am // Ah, breakfast! It’s been a few hours since I woke up so I’m starving. However, the phone is ringing and emails need attention. Another cup of coffee and hopefully something healthy goes in my mouth while I slide into my chair and get to it. While in the kitchen, I look through the freezer for something to pull out for dinner, but get distracted by the phone, the doorbell, and the mounting work.

11:30 am // A conference call, emails and work. I had scheduled out my day differently, but most days there’s at least a few fires to put out and there’s always a deadline to make so I’m already behind. I found a big win with an article on one client – whoo. I see one of my posts on mamachallenge is getting some great traffic – whoo hoo! Facebook is building, Twitter still needs love but Instagram is my favorite so I’m excited to really see a few comments here. However, I’m launching two new other sites (always a project happening) so it’s a little bit of craziness! I love promoting and helping others see their dreams come alive with a new website, social buzz and that big magazine win. I admit it’s nice when it’s mine, too.

It’s the duality that I think that makes me the best at what I do. I realize I’m famished. Some days I plan for meetings, but today there’s no time. Protein shake. Get back to it.

1:45 pm // Found myself on Facebook a little longer than I should. There was a recipe (can I make this for dinner?), then a cute dog, and then a sad friend. Sucked into the void – a break better be soon.

2 pm // After a few more hours of getting out timelines, press releases, posting, I need to put together a mini photo shoot for the dish I’m planning to make for a blog post and TV segment. This is both my fun time and crunch time since the kids will be home soon, so I have just about 2 hours to get it made and photograph. Then clean it all up. I throw carrots and a few pieces of cheese at my face and chug a bottle of water since I was due several ounces before noon and I’m already behind.

4:02 pm // I’m already late. I should have been in the car to pick up the kids from school and then off to their afternoon activities. Run in and get them and then sprint to the car to get to theatre practice for the big one, gymnastics for the little girl.

4:30 pm // While they practice, I head to the closest coffeeshop to get in another hour of work. Wireless connections and coffee rule my world. Husband also calls to tell me he’ll be home a few minutes late.

Days don’t always go as planned, but I always have la Madeleine to make me look good at dinner.”

6 pm // Pick up time! I do the rounds at practice we head home. “Mom, what’s for dinner?” I hear. Oh yes, I forgot! That dinner thing looms again. Something quick, but not a drive through. Plus we have a few allergies so I have to think where can I get something that everyone can eat, that we aren’t tired of eating, isn’t and doesn’t take an hour for us to get. We want to eat at home and get our other stuff done, too.

6:05 pm // La Madeleine has a new app so I open it up, make our options and click. It’s ordered so I head towards the cafe which is also on the way home. Relief.

6:20 pm // I roll into la Madeleine’s La Madeleine has a new appand tell them I’m here for pick up. Everything is already sacked and ready to go, so I’m off!

6:30 pm // We’re home! And in just a few minutes, dinner is served. There isn’t a pretty presentation, but with two hungry kids, there’s no time and it still hot. I just open the tops and let them get after their sandwiches. The big one begged for the sacher torte, so I negotiated with a surprise to satiate his sweet tooth.

I grab a few bites Caesar salad with balsamic chicken and ask them about their day. Dad comes in and looking for dinner. I picked up a jar of his favorite Tomato Basil soup for him – it’s gluten free and with a few servings in each jar, he can enjoy it for lunch tomorrow at work (and I might sneak a bowl in too.)

7 pm // And now it’s homework time. Folders, letters, math, all that – it’s a two person job to try to get them both done before we start the B routine: baths, brushing teeth, books and bedtime.

8:30 pm // Lights out begins. It’s a process that normally lasts until around 8:45 pm, but since it results normally in hugs, snugs, and kisses, I let it stretch. Besides, it’s my favorite part of the day. However, we both need time to get back to work, check in with each other. Plus that salad and soup still have a few bites left.

9 pm // Computer time for both of us as we sit in bed and catch up on everything we haven’t watched. We work until the other one starts to snore and realized it’s time for bed. Lights are out and get ready to start the next day.

12:15 am // I lie in bed and start thinking about tomorrow. “What’s for dinner?”

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How to Get Up and Go in 2017

February 1, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Make 2017 the year you get up, go, and get it done with no excuses. Be prepared for anything with help from Sephora Inside JCPenney.

Thanks to Sephora Inside JCPenney for this collaboration because you’re #SoWorthIt! #SephorainJCP

Have you ever said, I want to go work out, but I don’t want to look like a hot mess when I’m done?

Have you ever thought, after work I’d like to go meet a friend, but I wish I could shower?

Have you ever had to rush to a meeting, your kids’ school, the grocery store, and thought, I wish I didn’t look like I just rolled out of bed?

Don’t worry, we all have.

It’s the excuses we all make. It’s one of the many reasons we don’t end up crossing off things off those resolutions.

However, Sephora Inside JCPenney makes it easier to get what you need under one roof with one-stop- shopping for everything you need. And to start the new year, Sephora has put together an exclusive Sephora Favorites Refresh, Set, Glow Kit!

Made for the work hard, play hard gal on the go, it’s full of just what you need to feel good and look good whenever you need it.

Not to mention your hair and skin will thank you for a little extra love when you need it most.

Here’s what you get in your Refresh, Set, Glow Kit:

In a rush? Use…

Ole // Truth Wipes

Need to clean off that sweaty face in a flash? Pull out one of these wipes to brighten and cleanse your skin in no time flat! I just keep these in my gym bag and feel fresh even if you don’t have time to hit the shower!

CLEAN // Rain Skin Rollerball

Says it all, right? Need a scent that doesn’t smell like you’re trying too hard, but gives the idea you did have that extra 10 minutes to get in the shower? This little guy is it. It’s like new car smell for your skin that smells what exactly CLEAN should smell like.

Forreo // Mini Forreo – Play

Allows you to not just clean your face, but give it the perfect scrub it needs (ideal in the winter time when your skin is getting its own work out. I can’t believe how tiny it is either, so you can bring it anywhere (let’s go on a trip!)

Seeking the Perfect Selfie? Try…

Clinique // Hydra Blur

Called blur for a reason, this creme give your skin that perfect smooth, finishing look – perfect for selfies (don’t pretend you don’t take ’em) or when you’re going to get up close and personal!

Too Faced // Better than Sex Mascara

One of my favorites, now in the ideal size! Now for the name, I’m not sure if it’s better, but I can say, it does make you feel pretty hot (which may increase your chances!)

Need a Moisture Overhaul? Apply…

Origins // GinZing Moisturizer

Hey, you sometimes need a little more than just a sip of water, right? This little bottle delivers the moisture it needs in a big way, but also the energy boost to get your skin motivated (even when you aren’t.)

Bumble & Bumble // Repair Blow Dry

Looking at your split ends thinking you need to call your hairstylist? No fear, Bumble & Bumble is here. The Repair Blow Dry serum-in-cream elixir is what you need to seal those ends and give your hair what it needs for bouncy, healthy tresses.

Farmacy // Coconut Sheet Mask

Got a little more time? After skiing for a few days or basking in the sun during vacation can have anyone’s skin screaming for hydration. Give her a drink with this moisturizing mask made to make your skin soft, radiant and bright!

Sephora Collection // Hair Ties

A girl can never have too many hair ties, especially those that don’t pull or get caught in your hair! Keep these handy and you’ll never be caught saying “does anyone have a rubber band?”

Because You’ll Always Need Em, Here’s…

Fresh // Sugar Lip Treatment – Rose

I’m a committed fan to all the Fresh lip treatments. However, the Rose one is just the right pink tint to highlight your lips without being too much – all while hydrating your lips and giving them some much needed SPF.

Supergoop // Defense Refresh Mist

It’s called Supergoop for a reason! I’ve been a long-time user of the brand’s sunscreen and more serum, so I wasn’t surprised this mist made my now must-have list, too. Use it to apply sunscreen after makeup without smudging your face, plus its super scent gives you just that little bit you need to feel fresh and revive your skin even in the middle of the day.

So now what’s your excuse?

Get up and go get your Sephora Favorites Refresh, Set, Glow Kit at Sephora Inside JCPenney for a limited time!

Face It: 5 Real Benefits of Facials

January 15, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Sure it feels good when someone treats you like a queen, but do facials actually benefit you? Here are 5 Real Benefits of Facials that are more than just fun.

Thanks to Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa at Lincoln Square in Arlington, Texas for sharing this great pore-opening sponsored experience!

Spa days for most of us are just one of the many dreams that the Real Housewives. Most the time the only “steaming” I had was when I dumped the spaghetti out of the pot and the steam hit my face.

(I’m always multitasking.)

However, with age, like everything in my parenthood, I’ve learned hanging with my “squad” for hours is not really possible to get on the calendar, but a routine, one-hour appointment to get a facial had real merit. And while I’m pretty good about washing my face, there’s so much more than getting it cleaned. And if I counted all the bottles of stuff I have to put on my face, I could easily have a new Louis V (no kidding.) BUT it doesn’t mean I’m doing it right or as good as they do when they perform facials professionally.

I was surprised that turning off my phone was so hard to do – even if for an hour to an hour and half, but after a glass of coconut water (they make the drops in-house), I was able to take a deep breath and let go. While that alone time is worth it, there are several other benefits for a frequent facial.

5 Real Benefits of Facials

1. Facials Get Your Face REALLY Clean

Washing your face daily has many benefits, but getting it cleaned through a facial is a whole other ballgame. Actually think of it more like a car wash. You’ve probably cleaned your car at home with the waterhose and a bucket. It was clean but it wasn’t near as clean as when you took it to the carwash and let them wash it, right? Normally the first step of a facial, the pores need to be cleaned out, preventing the increased size of pores and acne. Steaming, also part of the facial process, helps open things up, making it much easier for your skin to accept all those serums and creams you put on your face. It’s kinda useless basically to buy all those treatment if your skin doesn’t ever absorb them for them to work.

2. Then there’s all the Scrubbing

Exfoliation, or careful scrubbing, exfoliants to stimulate cell renewal, remove dry skin, break down stubborn discoloration (brown spots) and fade post-breakout red/dark marks. The scrubbing helps to get all the old crap out of the way so you can get the right crap on it. While at Hand & Body, my facialist asked all kinds of the questions to help find out all the things I did (and didn’t do right) to my skin so she can recommend the right masks, products, etc.

Actually, there isn’t just one exfoliation for everyone, either. With the help of your Hand & Body esthetician, you can experience several of their facial peels and exfoliation services depending on your needs including:

microdermabrasion
glycolic peel
salicylic peel
lactic acid peel

3. Massaging Does More Than Make Your Feel Good

And what about all that rubbing and massaging? It can aid in the detoxification process.

Facials drain all the crap under the skin that cause puffiness, ruddiness, and crap in the lymphatic system by actually pushing it out manually to drain. This way the crap detoxifies your skin both inside and out. Also, facials help your circulation to get the skin cells renewing and that color all pretty and pink.

…But yes that massaging on your face, neck, and shoulders does feel amazing. And nothin’ wrong about that.

4. Professional Consultation

All the Pinterest, Facebooking and reading you can do does not a dermatologist make you. While not every facialist is a derm either, they are educated about the skin, how best to treat it and prevent additional issues. These products can be applied during the facial (and this could be during repeated treatments) and also other products you can be using at home on a daily basis. This way you don’t just keep buying stuff at the drug store that doesn’t work and isn’t right for your skin.

5. Facials are Anti-Aging

When you’re 20 you aren’t thinking about anti-aging. But when you’re 30, those words get real. Facials help slow the aging process making your skin healthier by getting rid of all the old, dead skin cells, then increasing the rate of collagen production to make your skin healthier and more radiant. And all those products reduce the fine lines, lighten those age spots and give your skin that heavy drink of water (hydration) it needs.

Bottom line? Facials are good for you and do more than just make you feel good. Find somewhere you are comfortable with and keep facials in your routine; not just once in a while will create the best benefit for you. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa make it easy for you at a price that is also affordable, too. And your first service is always at a special introductory rate to try it out! You can’t beat that!

Celebrate Your Favorite Disney Princess

January 6, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

What Disney princess does your child love most? More importantly, which Disney Princess is your favorite? Celebrate your princess with Madame Alexander’s new Disney Princess Collection.

Thanks to Madame Alexander for continuing to keep little girls dreaming big with this sponsored post.

When I was growing up Snow White was my princess du jour. At least until 1991 when Disney unveiled a new kind of princess.

She wasn’t just beautiful, but had brains and a pretty keen sense of humor. Her name was Belle and at 11 (that was how old I was), I thought she was pretty freaking amazing.

Through the years, I’ve loved some Disney Princesses and now with my own little princess, she has, too. I’m sure part of the reason she has every dress of every princess is that deep down I wanted to wear all those princess gowns, too…If I could just that genie out of the bottle (God bless Robin Williams), I’d rock that Jasmine get up too and believe me there would be a freaking parade as I hit a high note that Mariah Carey can’t even reach (well…)

[Dream sequence over and skip forward to 2017.] Beauty and the Beast hasn’t lost any popularity as exhibited by my little princess that loves her Belle dress she received last Christmas or any of the millions of fans that are counting down until March when the animated favorite comes alive in a new rendition of the timeless tale (go ahead, you should totally watch the trailer.)

So with a lot of negative things happening in the world and unfortunately many of them pointed at little girls, a heroine like Belle is exactly what I want my daughter to look to as a positive image. Belle is the whole package in my eyes and sees passed what’s on the outside of people (and what other people think), but to the goodness that is found in all people. And she prides herself on being independent and walking to the beat of her own drum.

Can’t complain about that.

And any movie that has Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, the feather duster; six-time Tony Award® winner Audra McDonald as Madame Garderobe, Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts, I’m just as excited to be in line to watch this one, too.

Until the movie debuts and well after the classic runs its time at the local movie theatre, another classic continues to bring the spirit of the princess alive. A new collection of Madame Alexander Disney Princesses was just launched featuring Belle, Ariel and Cinderella.

'For every girl who dreams big, there’s a princess to show her it’s possible.' Click To Tweet

Celebrate Disney Princesses with the new collection of 18-inch dolls featuring luxurious design elements that every princess lover will cherish. With three of the Disney Princesses to launch, your princess (designed for ages 3 and up) will love any of these to play or collect for many years to come.

Madame Alexander Disney Princess Collectible Doll is priced at $ 89.95 and available on their website for a limited time.

Winter Boots Wonderland: DAWGS Footwear

December 25, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 6 Comments

Are your dogs barking? They won’t be with a DAWGS Footwear…your winter boots wonderland for affordable boots (and much more!)

“Let’s go skiing!” my husband suggested for a Christmas vacation.

Affiliate links may be included.

While the idea was a good one, I admit I immediately went into a tizzy thinking about all the stuff we would need to buy.

The last skiing trip the hubs and I had been on was pre-kids and it would be the kids’ first, so everything from tobagans to shoes would have to be purchased.

All while taking care of Christmas’ other purchases.

UGH.

And of course, I wanted to everything to look cute, too. Like furry winter boots and warm, oversized sweaters to wrap up in with leggings.

Double UGH.

Let’s be honest, half the fun of ski trip is dressing up like a ski bunny. And in Texas when it’s rarely cold enough to wear more than a jacket, you have to take the opportunity when you get it. Of course, I wasn’t about to not dress up little lady either especially with her sparkle boots! (Yes, I wanted a pair of those, too.)

Fleece leggings, cardigans, and some of the cutest boots – I found it all on DAWGS.

DAWGS Footwear gives you those styles and a lot more – for everyone in the whole family. And every season, too. From summer wear to winter fun like Winter Park (here we come), DAWGS had a great selection at even better prices. Wrapped this mamachallenge-readers offer for free shipping & 60% off everything, it’s a great deal no matter if it’s Boxing Day, New Year’s Day or everyday.

60% off sitewide + free shipping with CODE SB60

Visit DAWGS Footwear with this amazing deal – before they’re gone!

Last Minute Holiday Shopping with Grapevine Mills

December 16, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Feel like an elf trying to get the holidays together before they’re over? With the help of Grapevine Mills you CAN mark off your last minute holiday shopping list – all in one place!

Thanks to Grapevine Mills for this special collaboration to bring you the lowdown on how it needs to go down this holiday season!

I love Christmas, so I thought I’d never be working to the nth hour to get it done.

Unfortunately, all the other stuff around this time of year made time to shop impossible! But with extended shopping hours (10 am – 10 pm), you can find a way to fit it all in, down to even pictures with Santa until Christmas Eve!

Reserve Your Spot with Santa

New this year to Grapevine Mills, you’ll find a whole new Santa’s World of Wishes in Center Court. With beautiful new decorations, Santa loves his new home away from the North Pole and you will too. However, what I love is the opportunity to skip the line to make the most of your few shopping days ’til Christmas with a new Santa by Appointment so you can reserve your spot! And as a part of a teachable moment, if you’re in the giving spirit (and we should all be), you can donate to Save the Children while you’re there and help other children in need!

Photo Credit: The Mills

Looking for a little more time with the big guy with your little guys? There are spots still available for Breakfast with Santa at Rainforest Cafe! Reservations for December 17, 18 & even December 23 can still be made – and include:

Greet by Cha!Cha!
Breakfast Buffet
Fun Activities
Visit from Santa
Photo opportunity with Cha!Cha! and Santa
Raffles
Arts & Crafts

And then there was Shopping!

With more than 180 stores and 1.6 million sq. ft., you have plenty of options for whomever is on your list! I actually remember when Grapevine Mills open and how exciting it was with all the cool entertainment, outlet retail and restaurants! Recently, the center underwent a multi-million dollar renovation to continue to make it a cool destination for the whole family in the middle of DFW! So if you haven’t been here, you definitely need to check out big changes as well as the small details that have revitalized the look of the center as well as the comfort to its guests!

Photo Credit: The Mills

Just a few of my favorites here:

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH
H&M
GameStop
Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop
Coach Factory
LOFT Factory Store
Disney Outlet
Jack and Jill
Abercrombie & Fitch
Helzberg Diamond Outlet
Ross Dress for Less
The Children’s Place Outlet
Oakley Vault

And those are just the highlights! I mean you really can find what you need and at the price point you need it for everyone on your list (hubs totally loves his Bass Pro Shop!) Get the full list of stores here and especially the deals you can only find at Grapevine Mills!

Still looking for ideas? Then join us December 16 at 3 pm for a special FACEBOOK LIVE! with Grapevine Mills! We’ll be sharing some of our favorite holiday finds and tips to how to get ready for the holidays! And you’ll be able to win $50 Simon Gift Card just for joining in. Visit Facebook.com/mamachallenge at 3 pm CST whereever you are – on your desktop, phone or tablet. Just consider us your holiday helpers!

Looking for Holiday Fun

you bring the crew or are looking to ways to spend time together without driving all over DFW, then Grapevine Mills is your place. With AMC Grapevine Mills 30 with Dine-In Theatres, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Aquarium and Rainforest Cafe you have it all! And if you still need to get in your ice skating, holiday lights, and more, then just only a few miles away, you’ll find the Gaylord Texan Lonestar Christmas and the rest of the Christmas Capital of the World!

Photo credit: SEA LIFE Aquarium

Now aren’t you ready to hit the ‘Mills for the holidays?

Holiday Hot Picks Gift Ideas 2016

December 7, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 22 Comments

Still working on starting finishing your holiday gift list? We’ve made it a #joyworthgiving with these Holiday Hot Picks Gift Ideas for Everyone at JCPenney.

MamaChallenge.com is thrilled to partner with JCPenney for this fun holiday collaboration. This post includes affiliate links.

Bucket list #9…CHECK!

I’ve dreamed for a long, long time to have my “Oprah moment” by sharing with the world my “favorite things,” then flooding folks with presents and announcing “you get a card, you get a car, and you get a car!”

While I wasn’t giving away automobiles this weekend, I did, along with Rebekah of A Blissful Nest (beautiful home design/style blog), give away presents and unveil our Hot Holiday Picks at a special party inside JCPenney at Stonebriar Centre. We had your gift list covered for everyone from your spouse, kids, girlfriends, white elephant gift exchange, and of course, a few for you to stuff in your own stocking, too!

One of picks to make the holidays sweeter was this fun “All the Jingle Ladies” top I sported from the JCPenney Ugly Christmas Sweater collection. Bling, bells and an added scarf make this one of my favorite holiday hot picks FOR ME!

Together we revealed each of our favorite gift recommendations for finding amazing gifts at JCPenney at any price point! Paired with some of the great incentives and promotions offers both online and instore like Customer Appreciation Days and JCPenney Bonus Cash, JCPenney is making the holidays a #JoyWorthGiving!

For many of us, busy schedules and the added holiday stress, have really taken the joy out of the season of giving, making it really hard to find “that special thing to show you care.” JCPenney has made it much easier to be able to get just the right thing with “Gifts Under $15, $20, $50 and more” price points so you can stay in budget, while making your gift count and organizing things just for her, him or anyone. And for me, that’s exactly what the holidays are supposed to be – joyful and giving!

So finally, here are my Holiday Hot Picks – all under $25! And many of these ideas could be used for anyone (since I’d love any of these things under the tree with my name on it!)

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: For the Teacher / Hostess Gift

There’s nothing like a soft, blanket to wrap yourself in with a good book and a cup of cocoa during the holidays to make the world seem perfect! This Velvet Plush Throw from JCPenney Home™ (available in prints and solids) is the perfect gift for a teacher, a hostess, gift, your aunt, your girlfriend – actually everyone will love this. And your wallet will love it even more at this price (I’ve spotted this from $9.99 – $11.99!)

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: For the Tweens / Teens

I want this and so does my husband, so to say it’s for the Tweens/Teens just gives us an excuse! Everyone will want in on the action to upgrade that smartphone to a virtual reality! With several models available instore and online starting at just $14.99, this gift idea has been flying off the racks. But you can still get your hands on the Merge 360 Vr Headset as your tween/teen gets jetted to a far away dimension – from the comfort of your living room! (I gave this away to one of our lucky guests at our Stonebriar Holiday Hot Picks Party!)

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: For the Music Lover or Traveler

Do you have loved one that loves music or travels? Keep them connected without all the wires. These Wireless Headphones with microphone will make listening to music or watching movies on the plane way easier, more personalized (with pink, blue and black options) and much more comfortable. And with such an affordable price, you can get a pair for everyone!

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: For the Techie

For under $30 and plug-and-play magic, your giftee can get caught up on all their favorite shows and find some new favorite movies with the ROKU Express Streaming Media Player 3700. It doesn’t get much easier to be access 350,000+ paid or free movies and TV episodes with no installation! This is a great gift idea for someone on a budget, who doesn’t want to mess with a cable bill, like a college student or a first-time apartment owner!

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: White Elephant Exchange

No one should be without a Slow Cooker. One of my #mamachallenge must-haves to get food on the table with little to no work, the slow cooker is always a favorite for anyone who basically likes to eat! And for those that really love to cook, they will always appreciate a slow cooker to make some great dishes! There are several options for different size slow cookers at JCPenney, but this deal for the Cooks Slow Cooker at ~~$12.99~~ now $9.99 make it too good to pass up!

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: For Him

My hubs likes to keep it easy and light, so it doesn’t get much better than this Dockers Leather Magnetic Money Clip Front Pocket Wallet. Equipped with both a clip for cash and a few places to slide his ID, credit cards, and a few business cards, this is a staple item that any man of any age will appreciate! And with a nice presentation and a nice price of $11.99, you can’t go wrong!

HOLIDAY HOT PICK: For Her / For You

From his wallet to yours, any woman with a smartphone will LOVE this! A huge hot list item apparently on everyone’s list (I’ve seen it sell out and restock a few times), the Liz Claiborne® Phone Charging Wallet comes with a built-in charging bank and in several colors and styles. You’ll (or the lucky lady who gets this gift) be able to charge your phone, keep your lipgloss and other essentials handy, all while looking accessorized on-the-run!

…And I couldn’t resist sharing this incredible find that is a huge #mamachallenge find: Elf on the Shelf Helper!

Forget trying to be creative and come up with fun new settings for your Elf on the Shelf. The ones you find online might give you a chuckle, but who has time to put together all that!?! The pressure is gone with The Elf on the Shelf® Scout Elves at Play Book – full of 10 props and 100+ how-tos to make it a cinch to keep the spirit of Christmas alive with just a few minutes to spare!

Running late on holiday time? No problem! You can run in store to catch many of these gifts or click online at JCP.com and with affordble 2-day shipping and even a 1-day express option, you can get your gifts all under in the tree or in the mail with time to spare!

And that’s just another way JCPenney is making the holidays a #JoyWorthGiving!

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