• Home
  • About
  • As Seen On
  • PR | AD
  • Working Together
  • Event Calendar
    • MamaChallenge.com Calendar
    • Submit Your Event
  • Contact

mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

  • Featured on TV
  • For Moms
  • Food
  • Parenting
  • DFW
  • Travel
  • Tech
  • Health
  • Style
  • Giveaways

5-Minute Mama: 3 Steps to Morning Makeup

May 26, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 22 Comments

Disclaimer

Weekday mornings are a mad sprint in our house. I’m happy if I can find the kids clean clothes to wear, a little food in their tummies and to school before the tardy bell rings (and that’s on a good day!) While the kids look presentable, I dodge eye contact with anyone at morning drop off because of the way I look. I normally in Pjs or yoga pants, my hair is pulled back and not a lick of makeup, especially under my eyes where it already looks like I haven’t slept in about two weeks. In other words, I look hot. But how can I do it any other way? I mean how do I squeeze in anything else in the morning if I can’t even get what I need to done?

In other words, I look hot.


But how can I do it any other way? I mean how do I squeeze in anything else in the morning if I can’t even get what I need to done?

Blushington-Interior All you need is five minutes. That’s right, with the help of my lovely friend at Blushington, in five minutes and only three steps, not only can I cover those dark circles, but get a look that says, “I’m a mom that not only has it together, but feels good about herself and looks good.” And now I”m going to share how I learned to do your morning makeup in five minutes.

All you need is five minutes. That’s right, with the help of my lovely friend at Blushington, in five minutes and only three steps, not only can I cover those dark circles, but get a look that says, “I’m a mom that not only has it together, but feels good about herself and looks good.” And now I”m going to share how I learned to do your morning makeup in five minutes.

Blushington-Makeup So unfortunately, this beautiful studio isn’t my house, but is the fantastic Blushington location in Dallas. With two other hotspots in California, Blushington is your answer for making you look your best whenever you need it. Besides being able to create a beautiful look on your special day or occasion, Blushington also provides makeup classes or Makeup 101 to help you with perfect tips just for you like this:

Five Minute Makeup for Moms

1. Lighten up!

Smile at yourself and then with a clean face (a little exfoliation can actually create a natural glow without makeup!) Then apply a little concealer with a peach/yellow hue so it looks natural, but also is able to help get rid of the dark circles and other discolorations in your face. I’m a huge fan of Laura Mercier, but I was introduced to Becca Cosmetics (affiliate link) at Blushington and it worked like a champ on my undereye circles!

concealer-blushington

2. Hi Eyes! Once you have a smooth, natural look, then it’s time to open your eyes! My consultant said your

Once you have a smooth, natural look, then it’s time to open your eyes! My consultant said your eyelash curler and filling in your eyebrows with an eyebrow pencil  (affiliate link) is your best friend to make those eyes open. You don’t have to put on the whole Kardashian look in the morning either…just a few seconds to curl those lashes and fill in the spots where your eyebrows aren’t quite perfect and you’re set!

Eyes-Blushington 3. Master the Multitask! 

Moms already know how to do 100 things at once and with makeup you get a time and cost break with a lip and cheek stain! This one from Becca (affiliate) worked like a charm to give cheeks and lips the right amount of natural color that make it look like you just have that “glow” that normally people only say when you’re pregnant! (This time you don’t have any of the swelling or sleepless nights to go with it!)Lips-cheek-stainAnd that’s all you need to get up and go!

You can use this for school drop off, quick trips to the store or those days you just want that natural look! I had so much fun while I was at Blushington during my one-hour Makeup 101 and learned so many things I had been doing wrong to my face! You can even bring your own products so you can learn to use what you have the right way!  After almost 30 years of putting on makeup, I was appalled how much I learned, but just take a look at the finished product!

MamaChallenge-After-Blushington

Blushington Dallas (conveniently located next to DryBar)
4218 Oak Lawn Avenue
Dallas, TX 75219
214.521.9200
Website

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Night Out

May 7, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Calvin Klein. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. #IC #euphoria4moms

I don’t intentionally mean not to make time for date night, it just happens. We’ll it actually doesn’t happen and that’s the problem.

We both know that it’s important to spend time together away from the kids to concentrate on celebrating parts of our marriage. But it seems so counterintuitive that the thing that is supposed to be a treat – something to look forward to that doesn’t require me to cook, clean or work, but instead have a good time, shouldn’t be so much work to make it happen. Finding the time, a babysitter, what to wear, what to do, where to go, and making sure things are good for the kids, etc. is a lot to coordinate and that’s just to get out the door. But I made a commitment that this time we wouldn’t let it just pass by on the calendar, we would go, experience something new, put on some and do it when we never go out – a weekday.

Now through Mother's Day, buy a large spray of euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance collection at Macy's and Dillard's and you'll also receive a beautiful live orchid with your purchase.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, we would celebrate with a night on the town to FINALLY go to one of the “bucket list” restaurants we had been eyeing, Clark Food & Wood Co. And I would make it a point to dress up, wear something new, instead of something I had owned for years, and feel good about myself – you know, like you would have done when you first started dating and a date was a really big deal.

Say More This Mother's Day with Euphoria Calvin Klein

Ironically, when I went to look for a dress at, I was surrounded by young girls, having their makeup done, their hair done and beautiful dresses…it was prom season and I was smack dab in the middle of the beauty portion. However, it kinda added to my preparation period to and now I also wanted to make our night memorable, too. While our evening didn’t call for sequins, I wanted something when I slipped it on it made me feel alluring, sexy and make my husband drool – just a little. A few sprays of euphoria Calvin Klein, with its exotic florals and hints of mahogany wood, was exactly the right touch to make this day the “every day special occasion.”

Clark-Food-and-Wine-Co

The night at Clark Food and Wine Co. on Lower Greenville was ideal with the perfect patio temperature to enjoy eating outdoors and taking our time to exploring the menu that’s designed for sharing. Starting with craft cocktails including roasted bone marrow with truffle, grilled Texas Bobwhite quail, and a mind-blowing charcuterie with a rabbit and pork pate that I couldn’t stop eating and a buttermilk bleu cheese with honeycomb combo that could be dessert within itself.

Clark-Food-and-Wine

We tried things we don’t normally eat and best of all, there were even options for those are gluten-sensitive so we didn’t have to make big exceptions to the dining experience. Kinda like a song, the evening was right, the food was right and the delicious Sangiovese  we enjoyed down to the last drop made the night one for the books. While we bit into the bites of housemade picked and caper berries, we actually had the opportunity to talk about things that weren’t work or kid related, but us – the ones we met when we first met and decided to create a family together.

[Tweet “Celebrate #MothersDay w/ a Night Out! @Dillards, @clarkfoodwineco & #euphoria4moms #IC #ad”]

While I’ll love the Mother’s Day cards the kids will give me on Sunday with the breakfast of Pop Tarts they’ll make, this Mother’s Day it was nice to celebrate a night out with the other part of me that made me a mother…my husband.

Euphoria-Mothers-Day

Make your Mother’s Day mean more when euphoria Calvin Klein.  Now through Mother’s Day, purchase a large spray from the euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance collection at and receive a complimentary live orchid.


Say More This Mother’s Day with Euphoria Calvin Klein

April 29, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 21 Comments

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Calvin Klein. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. #IC #euphoria4moms

What’s the best gift you’ve been given for Mother’s Day?

Some moms may receive a piece of jewelry. Others might unwrap an appliance like a mixer or a vacuum. And others, well we don’t necessarily get anything at all.

Ironically it’s not that we expect something huge or extravagant. However, something like flowers or something that makes us feel good about ourselves goes a long way to say “thank you,” “I love you” and “you’re special.”

This Mother’s Day say all of that and more with one purchase for euphoria Calvin Klein.

Euphoria-Mothers-Day

Now through Mother’s Day, buy a large spray of euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance collection at Macy’s and  and you’ll also receive a beautiful live orchid with your purchase.

Orchid-Euphoria-MamaChallenge

Many women work to find a fragrance that personifies them and gets people to notice when they walk into a room because the scent is intoxicating and calls for attention in addictive way. With a long day of diapers, dishes and making dinner, it’s an incredible feeling of escape with just a few drops of euphoria Calvin Klein to make you feel mysterious, sexy and feminine.

With creamy notes of pomegranate, persimmon touched with rich black orchid and the champaca flower, euphoria Calvin Klein is a unique scent featuring seductive florals and exotic fruits.  The signature of the scent is based with a sexy liquid amber and mahogany wood.

The heart of euphoria Calvin Klein is captured in the unique bottle inspired by the sophisticated design of the sensuous orchid with an amethyst color with a sleek silver top.

Best of all with this special coupling Mother’s Day is taken care of for you and him…

Connect with Calvin Klein

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest


Five Dresses Every Woman Needs in Her Closet

April 22, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

“Say ‘yes’ to the dress.”  “Dress to kill.” “Dress for success.” “Dress like you mean it.”

Yes, a dress is much more than just a piece of clothing.


It’s about how you feel about yourself when you slide on your heels and you grab once last glimpse in the mirror that sets the tone: “today’s going to be a good day.”

It’s about walking with your head held high into a room and knowing that you made an indelible impression because everyone is looking at you.

It’s about knowing every time you look at the dress you’ll remember the special occasion you wore it for and everything about that day – even if it was just a Sunday afternoon in September.

The dress isn’t just about the cut, the color or the fabric. It’s about how it all comes together to fit you and your personality.

While there’s always a reason for a new dress, finding the RIGHT dress at the right time isn’t always easy. However, with these five dresses from Eliza J, every woman needs in her closet you’ll be ready for whatever occasion that comes your way including that wedding, graduation, date night, or just Sunday afternoon.

1.  The Perfect Office Outfit

Whether you need to command attention for a big presentation or sit in multiple meetings while still maintaining a put together look after several hours, this cobalt blue dress with a flare skirt from Eliza J is right blend of power and pretty in one professional package.

Eliza J Dresses - Office Perfect

 2. Garden Party Chic

From Easter, Mother’s Day, Wedding Shower to Garden Party, this lacy number screams spring with blooming flowers and makes you want to sing “I feel pretty,” right?

Eliza J Dress - Garden Party

 3. Girls Day Out

Whether it’s a day out with the girls for a brunch get together to catch up and maybe sneak in a little shopping, this dress helps to show off the right places wiht the pop of color that makes the other girls GREEN with envy.

Eliza J Dress - Girls Out

 4. Ready for Fun

From dinner, dancing or walking down the beach, the color of this dress is the ultimate mix of feminity and sophistication and the long, flowing maxi skirt makes it easy to still look amazing even if you don’t feel like shaving.

Eliza J Dresses - Maxi

 5. The Little Black Dress

You can never go wrong with the little black dress. This one includes a dramatic lace design and cinches at the waist with the detailed headline to accentuate your best assets. This LBD can be worn for the theatre, formal dinner or to that special event.

Eliza J Dresses - LBD

Coveted by style bloggers around the world, Eliza J has every ingredient for that perfect dress: style, quality, and a dash of vintage for that classic look. Forever on trend with inspiration directly rom the runway, Eliza J’s prints are bound to introduce new friends. Every print on the line is developed by talented artists and is truly beautiful, feminine and unique. From day to evening, Eliza J is the perfect fit for today’s modern form. You will look fabulous and more importantly feel pretty.

No matter what kind of dress you’re looking for, just make sure it makes you feel as pretty on the outside as you are in the inside.

 

Face This: Daired’s New Facial with UltraLuxe BB Oil Reduces Aging

April 9, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer

After a very LONG March, I was feeling like I aged about 20 years. And unfortunately when I looked in the mirror, I looked liked it, too. I needed some relaxation. I needed some TLC. I needed to do SOMETHING to get back to normal…actually to make me look and feel better than my normal would be even better.

Too bad I only had an hour to make magic happen.


Inside Spa Pangea at Daireds in Arlington

However, with the NEW UltraLuxe BB Oil which launched nationally exclusively this month at Daireds Salon & Spa Pangéa in Arlington, an hour is all you need to reduce the appearance of age spots, wrinkles and pores and makes skin glow without the use of makeup. 

Inside Spa Pangea at Daireds in Arlington

Just the experience at Daireds Salon & Spa Pangéa is a treat with its 18,000 square-feet of beautiful spa and salon space. Walking into the beautiful glass doors, I was whisked into a calming environment, free of phone calls, people wanting things and just a moment to take a breath. After slipping into the ultra plush robe (that I found out you can and I will be buying soon), I was able to relax and let the stress take a backseat while I took care of me (which as moms we are TERRIBLE at doing.) 

Inside Spa Pangea at Daireds in Arlington

 

After a few moments, I was invited to lie down in a room and cozy bed, while my service began. In just about an hour, I had a therapeutic facial complete with extractions, recommendations for how to take care of my skin’s problem areas and a little mini- massage on my arms, scalp and neck. My esthetician was so good to give me guidance about my skin and how the addition of the UltraLuxe BB Oil can do to decrease the signs of aging.

Inside Spa Pangea at Daireds in Arlington

From reducing the appearance of age spots, wrinkles and pores to hydrating, moisturizing and plumping the skin, this cure-all luxury oil speeds up the healing process and calms skin with its potent aromatherapy and antioxidant properties. Six essential oils, including cranberry, lavender and rosemary, combine to make skin look and feel youthfully radiant from the inside out. UltraLuxe BB Oil is all-natural and vegan, as well as paraben and sulfate-free.
Inside Daireds Salon and Spa in Arlington
And when I was done with my one-hour of zen, I did feel refreshed and my skin did, too. But you don’t just have to wait for a facial to experience the results of the new UltraLuxe BB Oil, you can also purchase a bottle from Daireds and reap the benefits of continued use as part of your own, at-home daily skin regimen. If you don’t have one, then the trained staff will be happy to assist you in creating the right plan just for you. 
To book an anti-aging facial with UltraLuxe BB Oil treatment, please call 817.465.9797.
Daireds Salon & Spa Pangéa
I-20 & Bowen Rd. in Arlington
www.daireds.com
Inside Spa Pangea at Daireds in Arlington

Pick the Right Frames for Your Face

March 31, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 20 Comments

Disclaimer

Once a year I (coincidentally when my insurance coverage kicks in for the next year in January), I go in search of my frames for the year. I’m not a contact wearer, so for me frames are a part of my look and style.  Unfortunately, the selection process takes a while…like three hours as I look through the frames, try them all on and then proceed to keep trying them all on over and over again until I get tired, just pick a pair and go home.

But it can be a lot easier (and have a much better result) when you pick the right frames for your face based on what is best for your face shape. Just like a pair of jeans, certain styles will look better on you when you take your shape into consideration…face shape that is!.


Visionworks-MamaChallenge

Choosing the Right Frames

Square Face
Strong jaw line, a broad forehead, and a wide chin and cheekbones. The width and length of the face are close to being equal. Frames should be selected to make the face look longer and to soften the square angles of the face. Choose frames that are slightly curved (like an oval shape) and that have more horizontal than vertical real estate.

Oval Face
The oval face is identifiable by its balanced proportions. The forehead is slightly wider than the chin and cheekbones are high. Frames should complement the natural proportions of the oval. Choose frames that are wide or wider than the broadest part of the face and that follow your brow line. Often, diamond or rectangular shapes work best for oval shapes.

Oblong Face
Although fairly similar to an oval shape, an oblong face is longer than it is wide. The ideal frames will shorten the face by creating a break in the length of the face. Choose frames that have depth and a low bridge to shorten the nose. Try frames that are round, deep, have low-triangle shapes, or that have strong vertical lines.

Round Face
A round or full face is characterized by having the same width and length. For round faces, frames that add length to the face often work best. Frames that lengthen the face are typically angular, narrow and are wider than they are deep. It is best to avoid round style frames as these will exaggerate the roundness and curves of the face.

Heart-Shaped Face
A heart shaped face looks like a heart or a triangle with the point facing down. The forehead is very wide and cheekbones are high while the face narrows towards the chin. Counterbalance the narrow chin by choosing frames that are wider at the bottom. Generally, light colored and rimless frames work best, although aviator, butterfly and low-triangle styles also work well.

Diamond Face
A diamond shaped face has a high, dramatic cheekbones with a narrow eye line and jaw line. Frames that are soft in style typically work best to highlight the eyes and cheekbones. Select frames that have detailing, distinctive brow lines,are rimless or a cat-eye shape for best results.

VIsionworks-Entrance-MamaChallenge

However, at Visionworks they make finding the right pair event easier.  Whether you’re the type who needs to touch and feel the frames or would rather do your styling from the comfort of your couch, Visionworks has you covered. I decided to do a little of both to see which one took less time. And with selections from DVF, Guess, Michael Kors and Candies, you have options to fit your color and styles. 

Visionworks-Frames-MamaChallenge

After about two hours in store, which had tons of frames available at my fingertips, I found a few options that I liked. But I wasn’t going to make any decisions until I went online to the “A Better You Frame Finder.” In minutes, I had uploaded my own photo, picked a few different frames, tried them on and was even able to share them on Facebook to get feedback from friends.

1. Upload your photo. 

Best-Frames-For-You-VisionWorks

 2. Select a frame based on your face shape and your favorite style. 

Best-Frames-For-You-VisionWorks2

 3. Pick the pair that looks best on you, save to your profile and then come in store to pick them up! 

VisionWorks-MamaChallenge-Frames

Which pair do you like best? Left or right?

See which ones I chose? I’m kinda in love with these tortoise shell frames from Guess. Aptly named Pink, I actually love these frames even more in person than I did online and exceeded my expectations. And I didn’t have to spend three hours picking them out.

MamaChallenge-Guess-Frames-VIsionworks

Make sure you check out the Visionworks website for what current offers and promotions are available in your area. For instance right now, BOGO is on so you can get two pairs of frames for yourself OR choose to share with a friend and you both get a pair!

Let Visionworks help you create A Better You. 

Travel Without the Chafing with Bandelettes

March 11, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

Ever went on a long day of sightseeing to have not only have tired feet, but the inside of your thighs are red, raw and are burning? Worst of all, the next day they hurt even more because they never get a chance to heal?

Yep, that’s . It hurts, it’s irritating, and pretty much no matter your size, you’ve probably experienced it. While I’ve attempted a few different ways to prevent it, I can’t always wear pants in the middle of summer or use deodorant between my thighs when I’m wearing a short black dress with a white set of matching thigh-highs that smell of “Shower Clean.”

However, right before a mother-daughter trip to Napa, I received a package of . While I didn’t think I’d have time to try them out before I left, at the last minute as I got ready to depart for the airport, it came over me that NOW would be a good time to try these babies out. Under my cute little black travel dress and jean jacket, I slid up the lacy black Bandelettes® and darted out the door.


Mother-Daughter-Trip-Napa

Little did I know that we would end up late, running through the airport to get to the gate to make the plane. And if you’ve ever been to the DFW Airport, gates aren’t close and when I saw running, I was hoofing it.

Bandelettes-#thighchaffing

And when I FINALLY got to the gate, I will admit that my underwear may have shifted down to my Bandelettes®. I was deshelved, out of breath and completely out of sorts with my hair and makeup completely running down my face, but the Bandelettes® were perfectly in place and my inner thighs were the only thing NOT hurting.

solid black

Made with non-slip silicone inside holds bands in place without moving and slipping, Bandelettes® are available in six different sizes from pants size 2 – size 22. And to make sure you get the right fit, Bandelettes® has a short video to show you exactly how to measure your thighs.

For just $15.99 Bandelettes® not only give you a little something sexy under your dresses, but also save your thighs from the pain of chaffing. And right now you can get

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Bandelettes®.

Cute Shoes Can Be Comfortable with Vionic

March 3, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 10 Comments

Disclaimer
After working as an event planner for many years and standing on my feet for countless hours, I learned a lot. However, the idea that “if you’re nice to your feet, they’ll be nice to you” firmly left a lasting impression and one I live by today.

Lately in my search for cute comfortable shoes, I’ve been lucky to find first the most beautiful boots from Lane Boots and now an adorable designer wedge that doesn’t look like something from 1983.

Vionic-Shoes-MamaChallenge


Before I even show you why they are so comfortable, you have to admit you never would have thought these hot snakeskin wedges are made to be as good to your feet as they are to your style. I’ve had some many compliments wearing these both casually or to the office. And while I’m not about to start running in these, I bet I could as soft and little impact that my heel feels even after hours of wearing them!

Vionic Footwear with Orthaheel Technology offers footwear that helps prevent and alleviate foot pain and fits a variety of lifestyles. Vionic shoes feature a removable orthotic footbed that supports feet and helps realign the lower legs, improving posture and balance – an ideal option for daily fitness walking.

Shoes should make your feet feel great and look good doing it. That’s why Vionic has built every style starting with a tried and true foundation – a contoured Footbed with revolutionary Orthaheel Technology.

Vionic-Wedge

You can wear Vionic shoes from morning to night, for most activities. Slide into a pair of slippers to reduce the heel pain first thing in the morning, complete your office wardrobe with a pair of comfortable wedges to wear to work, lace up a pair of orthotic active shoes to walk for exercise, and then slip back into your spa-style supportive slippers at the end of your day. Plantar fasciitis can hit the road, but not before you do, moving through life without giving heel pain a second thought.

So why would you choose anything but cute and comfort for your feet? I would like to add that these Vionic shoes run large and in no half-sizes, so choose your true fit if you order these shoes online.  If you’re the type that normally orders the wide shoe option for your shoes, this style called the Antonio doesn’t need room to make you look good. It does that already. And when you order your first pair of Vionic shoes, you aren’t just getting a pair of shoes, but you are getting support, knowledge and lifestyle from a brand that many have proclaimed have changed their lives for the better. You can learn more about about those in their #SOLESTORY. 

“>Vionic-Wedge

To order your own Vionic with Orthopedic Technology  or to find a retailer near you, visit http://www.vionicshoes.com/store-locator.

To find other great comfortable and stylish shoes you should have on your feet, check out this post! 

 

 

The Skinny on MiniLuxe Dallas {Giveaway}

February 19, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 3 Comments

Disclaimer

For me, getting my nails and toes done are much more than pretty polish.

It’s about taking time to breathe, to feel good about myself and just take care of me.


Unfortunately, that “me time” is often only found after kids’ bed times and when my eyelids finally fall heavy…and well after any nail place is still willing to buff, paint and polish or rib any hair from my eyebrows.

That is until now.

MiniLuxe-Dallas-MamaChallenge

With the utmost in cleanliness, hours that work for me, and even an app to set my appointment, MiniLuxe is prepared to meet my needs and a whole lot more.

MiniLuxe-Dallas-MamaChallenge2

The first of 10 North Texas locations, MiniLuxe, in the West Village Shopping Center, is the NEW nail, waxing and brow salon changing the status quo of traditional nail salons. MiniLuxe is committed to eliminating or drastically reducing the use of toxic chemicals, redefining and elevating hygiene and improving client service standards and labor practices.

MiniLuxe-Difference

Every MiniLuxe location has a high-tech “Clean Lab” that uses ultrasonic debris removal and hospital-grade level sterilization for metal instruments. All non-metal components (nail files and buffers) are offered to the client or disposed for them after each use. MiniLuxe technicians never “double-dip” when it comes to waxing and specially designed jet-free pedicure tubs ensure foot-soaking water is never recirculated.

MiniLuxe-Dallas-MamaChallenge3

Any scrub or body cream product used paraben and sulfate free. All nail lacquer on the polish wall is at least 3-free (no formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalates or toluene), and their own MiniLuxe brand polish is 5-free (also excludes camphor and formaldehyde resin).  Even the paint on the walls is handpicked to protect you from volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

MiniLuxe-Dallas-MamaChallenge-6

The MiniLuxe menu features nail, brow, waxing and lash services, in addition to private event services for birthdays, bridal shoszwers and weddings, corporate occasions and other special events:

Mani and Pedis
A wide variety of manicure and pedicure options including signature, gel and a simple color change. They also offer the TeenyLuxe mani or pedi for little ones under 10, as well as the Preggi Pedi, a safe and gentle full-service pedicure for moms-to-be.
Brows
Keep it clean with professional brow services performed by our expert shaping, waxing and threading specialists.
Waxing
Stay smooth with private and professional waxing available for bikini, face, underarm and more.
Lashes
Boost lash length and volume with extensions from MiniLuxe’s expert lash artists
For the Gents
Designed for the discerning gentleman, these manicures and pedicures use unscented lotion with the choice of a buff or polish.
Group Booking
They can accommodate private parties up to 20 people.

MiniLuxe-Dallas-MamaChallenge8

Ready to go like right now? MiniLuxe is offering one lucky MamaChallenge fan a mani-pedi package! Just enter now for your chance to experience the MiniLuxe Difference! 

MiniLuxe-Dallas-MamaChallenge6

MiniLuxe

West Village
Monday – Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sundays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
www.MiniLuxe.com

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Made for More than Walking: Lane Boots

February 18, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 17 Comments

Like most girls, I can appreciate a pretty shoe.

I don’t care who you are (and what kind of shoe you wear), there’s nothing sexier than a pair of ruby-soled Louboutins.

So when I came across a local boot maker that sported a turquoise sole, I totally appreciated the Texas twist on a pair of their designer cowboy boots. But the blue hue wasn’t the only standout I discovered about Lane Boots.


Lane-Boots-MamaChallenge

Like Louboutins each pair of Lane Boots has its own personality complete with unmatched design, first-class quality, and even a unique name to boot (pun intended.)

After lusting after each of the different looks searching for the pair that spoke to me, I decided I’d slide the studded, black calfskin tallboy on just to take a look. After all, this much “pretty” must really mean that comfort was never part of the design plan (and I hadn’t seen anything on their marketing materials that said so either.) But once my heel was in place, I was surprised at how comfortable the boot was.  And a little walk around the room showed me that these weren’t your normal boots.

But then again nothing about Lane Boots is normal.

Lane-Boots-MamaChallenge

Based in Arlington, Texas, Lane Boots was born out of a business opportunity from entrepreneur Patrick Lane in 2007.  After being a boot broker for another line of boots, he wanted to create a boot company that not only celebrated the rich tradition of well-made Western boots but showed “the attitude in your style and a smile on your face” when you wear them; and Lane Boots was born.

Lane-Boots-Logo

Just looking at the more than 300 different styles, each boot had so much detail from the sophisticated embroidery, hand-applied studding, and unique artisan inlay design.  Although I don’t know much about how a boot is made,  these bench-made beauties are like “artwork for your feet” as each pair is handcrafted from the motherland of fine boot making in Leon, Mexico at the Lane Boot manufacturing facility.

Lane-Boots-MamaChallenge

Even though comfort isn’t their selling proposition, like me, once you put a pair on, you know why you’ll be a customer for life.  With a  four-layer process of heel liner, heel cushion, insole and sole, you can tell these boots can be used for a lot more than a little walking…you’ll be ready to go all day in your Lane Boots.

However, good luck trying to decide on your first pair.

Lane Boots are available online or at several western wear and clothing retailers including 11 Main.

Get social with Lane Boots with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

 

« Previous Page
Next Page »

Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

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

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Save on Fun All Year Long! Code: MAMACHALLENGE

Santa Cookie Ideas with MamaChallenge

The Mom Workout - Everyday Moves that Make You Stronger

SHOP MAMACHALLENGE!


More TV Segments Not To Miss

Patriotic Pie

Red, White and Blue: July 4th Treats

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Oh, Pumpkin! Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chips

MamaChallenge.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

You’ll LOVE This!

logo
Food Advertisements by

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Pictures Say a 1000 Words

mamachallenge

❤️Real Solutions for Real Parents
👩‍👧‍👦Food | Wine | Parenting | Travel | Life
📌ArlingtonTX
📧 autumn@mamachallenge.com

Mamachallenge.com
I put it off all day because I didn’t want to ha I put it off all day because I didn’t want to have to start the inevitable, but here we are the first #SeniorSunday for Jackson Benham Reo. (I’m so not ready.)
Doubled-down and won big! Congrats to @daynetxbbq Doubled-down and won big! Congrats to @daynetxbbq for being named #7 in @texasmonthly 2025 Top 50 BBQ! 

We’ve done our own BBQ stop shopping this last year from our own @hurtadobbq, @smokenashbbq and @225bbq in Arlington, @goldeesbbq and @panthercitybbq in Fort Worth, @zavalasbarbecue in Grand Prairie and @franklinbbq in Austin, no one can say that BBQ is BBQ. It’s as vastly different as the landscape as Texas. Now I’m off to @burntbeanco - #sequin here we come with the rest of the state!

#bbq #texasbbq
I can’t believe these are my people…my people I can’t believe these are my people…my people are supposed to be toddlers with Thomas the Train and Disney Princess backpacks! 

Goodbye 11th and 7th grade!
🚨 ACT NOW: Keep Public $$$ in Public Schools! 🚨

Click Here (takes less than one minute): 
https://www.txpta.org/take-action

Tomorrow, March 11, the Texas House Committee on Public Education will hear HB 3. Let’s make it clear: Public money demands public accountability!

Texans have rejected vouchers since 1957—yet lawmakers are once again pushing them through with SB 2 and HB 3.

💰 Vouchers drain public school resources.
📉 They don’t improve student achievement.
❌ They aren’t about "parent choice"—private schools choose their students.
🏫 Texas parents already have school choice.

Governor Abbott is making vouchers a priority, but Texans are pushing back. Lawmakers are feeling the heat from voters who refuse to let public schools be undermined.

📲 Take 1 minute to make your voice heard NOW!

📷Jackson and Taylor are 2 of the 5.5 million reasons why Texas must keep public dollars in public schools. I was a product of public schools and had an amazing experience in a rural community with some of the best teachers. Change needs to happen, but taking away resources like these from schools is not especially when they ste already underfunded and our teachers’ morale is at an all time low. Communities work better together not when you separate them further apart. 

#studentsrworthit
#txptarally25
❣️…Pressing pause (for while)… Forgot wha ❣️…Pressing pause (for while)…

Forgot what it feels like to RELAX? The Sanford House Inn & Spa is ready to help you “Leave Your Worries Behind” with packages to treat yourself (or someone else) this Valentine’s Day! 

You “Can’t Help Falling in Love” with multiple options including a Hot-Stone Massage, Facials, Spa Manicure + Pedicure, Blowouts, Foot Reflexology and even lunch (with wine!

Just take a look at my face - I was able to “turn it off” (for a little while) and when I left my dry winter skin was just glowing - plus I learned how to make it stay that way from my very  knowledgeable esthetician! 

If you haven’t tried this gem in the middle of Arlington, you’re missing out! The Spa is just part of experience with its 12-room Inn and acclaimed 506 Restaurant (don’t sleep on the brunch), @thesanfordhouse is your little piece of heaven in the middle of downtown!

Think it’s only a little dream? It will be if you don’t make an appointment or nudge your loved one this is what you NEED for Valentine’s Day! (But don’t worry you can still get a great experience anytime!)

Link is in my stories for full list of Valentine’s Day packages! 

📍506 N. Center Street, Arlington, Texas
(Less than 1 mile from @attstadium)

#valentines #dfw #ArlingtonTx #sanfordhouse
Texas Bucket List ✔️= Johnson City Lights Thi Texas Bucket List ✔️= Johnson City Lights

This is the last weekend of the “Christmas lights you can see from space” from the twinkliest town in Texas, @visitjctx!

You have until Sunday…and while you’re there you should hit up @halterranchtx, my other new favorite.

#gofredtx #fredericksburgtx @visitfredtx @visitfredericksburgtx
FLASH GIVEAWAY: Just because Santa’s left the st FLASH GIVEAWAY: Just because Santa’s left the station doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate a Classic Christmas (and we have the keys!)

@ClassicChristmas has been extended until Sunday, Jan. 5, so if you haven’t been enjoy this VIP experience with ice skating and snow tubing! 

Giveaway includes 4 Tickets to Classic Christmas + 4 Premium pass upgrades plus: 
🎟️ Exclusive Express Lane entry to popular activities 
🎟️ $10 merch credit at the Classic Christmas Gift Shop  
🎟️ Coca-Cola Beverage

To enter:   
⭐️ Like this post  
⭐️ Comment what’s your favorite Christmas song 
⭐️ Tag a friend who would love the chance to come
⭐️ Share this story as an extra chance to win!

The giveaway is open now through December 30 at 11:59 pm and you’ll have December 31 - January 5, 2025 to enjoy the fun! Winner will be contacted by DM so profile must be public.  (Giveaway is not associate with Instagram/META.) 

#classicchristmas #cocacola #Arlingtontx #ArlingtonTexas #cocacola @enchantdallas #dfw #dfwevents #mamachallenge #dfwinfluencer #dallasinfluencer
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW // Trinity Falls Tour of WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW // Trinity Falls Tour of Trees

 🎄 Tour of Trees at Trinity Falls in McKinney
 🗓️ Now through Dec. 15 (so hurry up!) 

Know what’s better than touring homes? Touring homes with beautifully decorated Christmas trees! 

@trinityfallstx has brought both worlds together by inviting the public to explore their model homes with professionally- styled trees by @absholidaydecor at the 5th Annual Tour of Trees. While you marvel at the homes and the trees, take your photos in front of the trees for a chance to win $500 Amazon gift card.  

TIP: Don’t miss the tree collaboration with #RHOD @dandrasimmons - it’s “beeutiful!” 🐝 

This event is FREE, but registration is required. (Link is in stories or DM “Tree” for the link.)

 #touroftrees #trinityfalls #trinityfallstx #mckinney #mckinneytx #mckinneytexas
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS - Dallas Zoo WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS - Dallas Zoo Lights

🌲 Dallas Zoo
🗓️ Now - January 4 

Wonder what the @dallaszoo is like after dark? Once Upon a Wild Light comes alive with more than two million lights, 5:30 pm - 9 pm each night through January (so you can do this one with your family during the holiday break!) 

While many of the animals sleep, DinoLumia and DinoVision: a Jurassic adventure comes out to play, along with tons of holiday light photo opps and winter fun experiences. Enjoy catching up through self-guided, self-paced walk-through and spend time together while taking photos, which is ideal if you don’t like the holiday overload! And don’t sleep on Santa here, as he has a certain twinkle in his eye the kids always seem to like to catch up with (mom was even able to get a shot.) 

And for the even bigger kids over 21, Dallas Zoo: After Dark, goes wild on Thursday, Dec. 12, 6-9 PM with eats, treats and holiday drinks,live music, and games and other ways to get you in the holiday spirit! 

 @DallasZoo @ReliantEnergy #dallas #dallasholiday #dfwevents #dallaszoolights #holidays #zoo #dallastexas #mamachallenge
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Classic Ch WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Classic Christmas 

🌲 Coca Cola Classic Christmas - Choctaw Stadium in Arlington  
🗓️ Now through Dec. 29

Growing up @cocacola made the holidays magic, so when Coca Cola Classic rolled down the road, we had to go peek! Partnering with @enchantchristmas, the experience is part lights, part photo opps and for my kids mostly FOOD and overall a lot of fun - all washed down with (of course, a Coca Cola!) 

What was also great was a little walk through memory lane with Coke Christmas moments throughout the years - cue the polar bears and 18 wheeler!

Experience: 
🎅Market Square (definitely hit up the t-shirts - reading each one is half the fun)
🎅 Snow Tubing (always our favorite)Ice Skating (truth: we don’t skate, but it’s perfect people watching) 
🎅 Interactive Light up Dance Floor
🎅 @cinemark Theatre with holiday movies 
🎅 Coca-Cola Lounge - 21+ Cocktail experience (looked great to go with the girls)
🎅 Santa Landing

And of course, the Eatery! Eyes (and mouths) got big here with featured food from State Fair of Tex winners like The Drowning Tacos (SO GOOD we then ordered the Birria Tacos, too all cooked onsite and with all the sauce!) 

It’s the real thing!

#ClassicChristmas #ChoctawStadium #ArlingtonTx #CocaCola #Dallas #DFWEvents #DFWHoliday #DFWInfluencers
WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Prairie Li WHERE TO CHRISTMAS IN DFW WITH TEENS // Prairie Lights

🎄 Prairie Lights, Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie 
🗓️ Now through Dec. 31 (NYE) at 6 pm 

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without @prairielights- with a packed car with blankets, Santa hats, hot cocoa and coffee, and blasting holiday music while we sing them even louder.  

A stunning two-mile drive through light park complete with a midway stop - The Holiday Village with carnival rides, amazing bites (corndogs, funnel cakes and more, oh my!) And this year we were surprised with a new light tunnel, reimagined walk-through forest and new displays, great photo opps, gifts, visit with Santa, a lighted strollable forest.  It’s perfectly timed for food, fun and a little time on foot! 

PRO TIP: Go early, get tickets in advance and spring for the fast pass on the weekends and prime holiday times. And enjoy it and don’t try to rush it - enjoy it! That includes entry and the experience (so bathroom before you go, but thankfully there’s one at The Holiday Village and you get the corn dog.) 

#GoGrandGP @grandfungp #GrandFunGP #dfwinfluencer #Dallas #grandprairie #prairielights #dfw
Mariah may be singing “it’s time,” but there Mariah may be singing “it’s time,” but there are still some ways to give a little love to Thanksgiving with a little DIY (hello old pumpkins!) from Mama Challenge! 

So excited to see my friends over at Good Day Fox 4 today for this fun segment!
Peardon My Reach - this one’s on repeat. 🍐 # Peardon My Reach - this one’s on repeat. 🍐 
#nationalcoffeeday 

#cinncinati #kentucky #newport #coffee #fall
Arlington makes Taco Tuesday even better by celebr Arlington makes Taco Tuesday even better by celebrating all month long with its #SaveTheTacos campaign, now - September 30.

Try and vote for “Best Taco in Arlington” from 12 participants:

🌮 Fiesta Fusion Shrimp Taco at Boiling Tails Co.

🌮 The Hunter Taco at Cut & Bourbon

🌮 El Jefe at Grounds and Gold
 
🌮 Jamaican Me Crazy at M’Jays House of Smoke

🌮 Champiqueso at Papaya Mexican Grill

🌮 What the Falafel at Prince Lebanese Grill

🌮 He’s Just a Po Boy at R Bar and Grill 

🌮 Celestial Pork Belly Taco at Rocketbelly
 
🌮 House Special Barbacoa at Tic-Taco
 
🌮 The Chicken of Wall “Street” at TJ’s Catfish & Wings & BBQ

🌮 Baja Shrimp Taco with Mango Salsa at Tom’s Burgers & Grill
 
🌮 Wanna Taco ‘Bout It at Zack’s Bistro

We can tell you which one is our favorite, but take away all the fun to find your favorite! 

(Link to Vote in Stories!)

#ArlingtonTX #TacoTuesday #SavetheTacos
Always great to see a few guys who work together l Always great to see a few guys who work together like each other, too.

It’s even better when they’re Texas Rangers and  we’re celebrating Hall of Famer Adrían Beltré!
And just like that…11th grade and 7th grade (and And just like that…11th grade and 7th grade (and then they drove off!)
Follow the “red light” to this one-of-a-kind e Follow the “red light” to this one-of-a-kind experience in DFW. 🚨 

Named after Bangkok’s legendary road of entertainment of all kinds (Sukhumvit Soi 11), it seems fitting this newly imagined destination would find its home in Arlington’s Entertainment District. Anchoring the NEW @loewsarlington, @soycowboytx (also from @bbbutchers / @berghospitality) recently swung open the curtain this summer with an opening that made heads turn at every corner of this 12,000 sq. ft. of sexy space - with 3 unique bars, patio, viewable kitchen and dining room. 

To call it a “Pan Asian restaurant” doesn’t do it justice with its rich menu of fresh sushi, dim sum, caviar, truffle, lobster, waygu (all things you don’t find in the home of the margarita machine and ballpark nachos.) And if you’re looking for entertainment, just take a peek into the expansive kitchen and watch your rolls or omakase be made. The cocktail menu is just as extravagant with everything from mezcal to Japanese whisky, you’re eyes will be just as happy as your lips upon your first sip. 

While we experienced live music, fashion show and more as part of the opening, the cool smoke installation and the people-watching is definitely just part of the menu at Soy Cowboy you’ll have to explore. 

Food Nerd Note: SoyCowboy is on the upcoming @dfwrestaurantweek menu for just $39, so it’s a steal to take your own trip on a budget. (Make your reservation.)

Chon mean (or what we hope is Cheers in in Thai!)
NEWS ALERT: Dallas Food Nerd is now on TV! 📺 ( NEWS ALERT: Dallas Food Nerd is now on TV! 📺 
(Well today at least.)

Normally we’re always behind the smartphone camera, today we stepped out in front of the TV screen! The lovely folks at the new morning show Morning on Merit Street @morningonmeritstreet invited DFN for a little “roundtable” discussion about dining trends with our own Food Nerd @autumnreo / @mamachallenge and Bill Trevino of @craftandvinerestaurant CraftandVine along with hosts @dominiquesachse and @fanchonstinger for a little dishin’ on dining!

(If you’re able to take a look online, keep watching to see our new friend Pearl 🐶 and friends from @sweetpearlsicecream share their incredibly sweet story with @hungreehannah!) 

✔️ And just like we shared on the show, we want to know what you think! What do you think about Table Limits on reservations? Yes restaurants should have them or no way?
Round #2: Now he’s off for CIT at YMCA Camp Grad Round #2: Now he’s off for CIT at YMCA Camp Grady Spruce! It’s hard to separate them, but we’re excited he’s so happy to be ready for this adventure!
July 4th kicked a week early! 🎆 Love when the n July 4th kicked a week early! 🎆 Love when the neighborhood shines!
Load More Follow on Instagram

Follow Along!

Tweets by @mamachallenge

Copyright © 2026 · Magazine Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in