• 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

Ready, Set, Click: Your Guide to Amazon Prime

July 16, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

House cleaning? Wine delivery? Clothes? There such much more to your Amazon Prime membership after Prime Day is long over. Here’s Your Guide to Amazon Prime. #AmazonPrimeDay

Amazon Prime Day is here and everyone is excited to save, but most people aren’t using their Prime Membership to its full potential. Here’s all you need to know about Prime and some of my favorite Prime Day deals to make your life easier. 

(P.S) If you don’t already know how why you need a membership, try out Amazon Prime for 30 days for free with this link. And if you don’t know why you should, keep reading.


Prime Day Deals Not to Can’t Pass Up

1. All Things Alexa

All of the Amazon Devices (Echo, Fire TV, Kindles, etc) are up to 50% off during Prime Day. Ones we can’t live without are:

1. Amazon Echo and the Echo Show


 

2. Amazon Firestick (HELLO, its only $19.99 right now!)


 

3. Kid’s Edition Echo Dot (So they can play music and stuff in their rooms.)

4. Home Security (like Ring) (So I can see who’s at the door without getting off the couch.)

Yes, Ring is just $174 (normally $249) but there are many other options too! 

2. Audible Gold Membership

Right now, Amazon is giving 66% off a 3 month membership to Audible Gold. That means you can listen to ALL of the books you want for just $4.95 per month! I just listened to When Life Gives You Lululemons (it’s by the same author of “The Devil Wears Prada”) and it’s a good one for summer (I have the !

3. Dash Buttons

Dash buttons are on sale for $0.99 today, regularly $4.99. I don’t know what i’d do without my tissue paper and paper towel buttons! As soon as I get down to the last roll, I just push a button and two days later they’re at my front door!

4. Furniture

Rivet furniture and decor is up to 25% off, and this mama needs some new barstools! 

5. Everyday Products

All Amazon brand health, beauty, household, and grocery items are 30% off today! I’ve got my eye on some of their healthy snacks and sunscreen!

What is included in an Amazon Prime Membership?

In addition to getting free 2-day shipping with a membership, Amazon Prime has a lot of other things to offer.  Here are some of my favs:

1. Prime Now

Get everything from groceries and wine, to grills and backpacks delivered within two hours of placing your order! They’ll even deliver restaurant meals if you’re too tired to cook dinner tonight!

2. Prime Video

Every Amazon Prime video comes with free movies and tv shows from some of your favorite channels! Wanna binge watch 6 seasons of Sex and the City? You can do that for free with a Prime Membership!

3. Whole Foods

You can get extra discounts at Whole Foods just for having a Prime Membership! I’m talking exclusive Prime Member Deals, plus an extra 10% off items with yellow sale signs! All you have to do is download the Whole Foods app, sign in, and scan the code at the register!

4. Prime Wardrobe

With Prime Wardrobe, Amazon will send you a box of clothes you pick out on their site. You can try them on and send back the ones you don’t want, only paying for the ones you keep! Wanna try a dress in two sizes to see what fits better? Now’s your chance! 

5. Prime Photos

If you’re like me, you’re tired of paying for extra storage on your phone. (I’m looking at you iCloud storage!) Well with your Amazon Prime Membership, you can cut those costs and upload your photos to Prime Photos for free!

6. House Cleaning

Y’all, I’m not even kidding. You can set up ongoing cleaning services through Amazon Prime now. The companies have already been vetted so you know you’re getting your monies worth with way less worries. We just bought a new house and use this service to keep it looking new! 

7. Ordering through Alexa

By this point, everyone knows how helpful Alexa is. (Honestly she’s a little too helpful. The other day my husband asked HER to order paper towels instead of asking me AND she ordered them for him. *insert side eye* ) Well now if you have a Prime Membership, you can save on screen-time buy asking Alexa to place an order or tell you about your daily deals! Speaking of daily deals, here are some of my must-haves for Amazon Prime Day (aka 36-hour Black Monday.) 

 

Those are some of my favorite things about Amazon Prime and Prime Day.

Amazon really makes my life easier and gives me more face time with my family. The fact that I can have groceries ordered while I’m jumping on the trampoline with my kids, is life-changing. Oh, and speaking of life-changing… Did you know if you order products through smile.amazon.com they will donate 5% of your total to a charitable organization of your choosing?

All the more reason to get your Amazon Prime membership and get to shopping today!

 

Let me know what you’re excited to buy in the comments below!

 

Get Thee to the Golden Potty: Potty Training Tips for Success {Baby BJORN Giveaway}

June 3, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Did you know that June is National Potty Training Month?  

Thankfully, as my “gift” my two-year-old graduated to “Ariel panties” last week (we capitalized on her love of the Little Mermaid to incentivize her to ditch the diapers.) However, it’s was a long road to get here and every child is different. I can certainly attest since some of my most-beaten down moments as a mom has been regarding potty training over the last few years. 


Heck, just two weeks ago my daughter peed on my shoes in the middle of Target. Lucky me as I got on the floor with a clean diaper to clean up the mess and then shortly jetted out of the store in hopes no one had witnessed my moment of total meltdown. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be this way everytime, right?
So here’s a great list of top potty training tips from Pediatrician Dr. Robyn Strosaker, from UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital to act as some great pointers for potty training success.
And stay tuned below for an even better reward for both you and your child for potty progress from BABYBJÖRN.

Win a limited edition gold BabyBJORN smart potty for the ultimate potty-training success! The potty is compact and convenient, and the soft plastic edges mean that your child sits comfortably. It is easy to empty and clean and will rest firmly on the floor, even if your child moves about.
  

Enter below by answering the question: 


“What’s your best or worst potty training story or tip?”


a Rafflecopter giveaway

SPRING Into Action to Protect Your Home: Termite Awareness Week, March 16-22

March 20, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: This was a sponsored post by Adams Exterminating. 


Before I bought my first home, my visions of homeownership included painting the walls, planting the flowers, buying furniture, etc.


Once I bought my first home, I realized homeownership consisted of much more than that like replacing roofs, shifting foundations, and implementing pest control.

Not exactly the images of the Home & Garden Channel I once thought, but certainly a huge responsibility that happens when you own a home.

Unfortunately for me, pest control has been one of those not-so-fabulous issues I’ve had to learn a lot about. Not because we aren’t clean people or don’t keep a clean house, but when if live next to a creek, are surrounded by trees or simply have a home that is comprised of wood…surprise! You can have any number pest concerns to take care to make sure you and your home are protected.


Since March 16-22 is Termite Awareness Week, I was reminded of real honey-do I had yet to take on – a termite inspection. While an inspection was completed on our home during the buying process, that of course, was seven years ago. Well, a lot can happen to a home in seven years, especially when it comes to termites. These “silent destroyers” (as termites are often referred as) can take down the façade of a home as well as its interiors way before a homeowner will detect a structural problem.


Did you know that termites cause $5 billion in property damage every year, according to the National Pest Management Association?


And as we move into the spring season and the ground’s temperature increases, termites are in search of new mates and new homes to conquer.

Isn’t home ownership fun?

While I consider myself a jack of many things and a master of nothing, this is one area I recommend be left to the professionals. However, there are things you can do to prevent termites. The Better Business Bureau offers four ways to avoid a termite infestation:

1. Repair and replace when necessary.
Repair leaking faucets, water pipes and AC units on the outside of the home. Repair fascia, soffits and rotted roof shingles. Replace weather stripping and repair loose mortar around basement foundation and windows.

2. Keep it clear.
Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and five inches off the ground. Direct water away from your house through properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Keep mulch at least 15 inches from the foundation. 

3. Inspect, inspect, inspect.
Routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of mud tubes (used by termites to reach a food source), cracked or bubbling paint and wood that sounds hollow when tapped. Monitor all exterior areas of wood, including windows, doorframes and skirting boards for any noticeable changes.

4. Protect your investment.
Not sure if you have termites? Consider a termite inspection from a qualified pest management company like North Texas’ own Adams Exterminating, every 1-3 years. Since 1947, the Adams family has provided quality, affordable pest control service to the North Texas area for 66 years.

While I don’t know much about termite control, I am excited that employ the Sentricon System, the only pest control product ever to earn the Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).Thankfully with this system, you don’t have to compromise between earth-friendly and being effective. 

To learn more about the Sentricon System or to find the nearest Adams Exterminating near you, visit www.adamspest.com or follows them on Facebook.

Don’t let bugs get to you!



Last-Minute Must Pack Items for SXSW

March 13, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: I was selected to represent Pfister at SXSW. I was provided a Powerrocks charger as a promo item. Hormel sent over several packs of their new Rev Meat Snack Mix for me to try complimentary, and I’m obsessed. 


I’m a planner-kind-of-gal. I like to know what to pack, what to bring and what to have just in case. So when going to a conference, especially a biggie like SXSW for my first time, I wanted to make sure I had everything I could possibly need as I journeyed down to the capital of Texas with Shannon of milkandcuddles.com for three days of all things technology, digital, interactive everything.

While I’ve been to Austin many times, I’ll admit a forecast for rain threw my whole plan a little out of whack since normally Austin is prime for sandal weather, but I was so glad I made some specific choices to make sure I was ready to go at it like a pro (minus forgetting my galoshes.) 

While the weather wasn’t going to be on my side as I headed to Austin for SXSW 2014, I at least make sure I packed a few things to make my experience a little more convenient, connected and tastier. 

1. Hormel Rev Meat Snack Mix: 
Ever wish you could eat pizza and type on your keyboard with making a mess? Or drive without dropping your BBQ sandwich all over you at the same time? Well, Hormel is making my dreams come true with their new high-protein, on-the-go snack, Rev Meat Snack Mix. Exclusive to Dallas-Fort Worth for now, I was sent a few of these babies to try out and they were the perfect SXSW treat. Packed in a small-cup size, they are perfect for snacking when you are driving down the road (it sits perfect in my cup holder), hiking/camping or gaming and don’t want to stop. Best of all, the mix varieties including Spicy BBQ & Bacon, Turkey Ranch and my family favorite, Pepperoni Pizza, are loaded with tasty flavors that will satisfy the perfect craving for meat, spice and crunch. And you can’t go wrong when your snack is full of protein with 9-10 g protein per serving. For me, it’s so much better than just snacking on jerky. Just don’t leave them in the cabinet while you go out of town, or your family will devour all of them. You can find these at Kroger for a limited time!

2. Powerrocks Charger: 
Everyone at SXSW will run put of power at least once if not twice a day. When you’re talking technology and the future of interactive nonstop for a week, running out of power is the point. But with my handy (affiliate link) Powerocks Magicstick, I just plug it into my phone, put it in my pocket and keep going. Love it! And it’s pink too so that doesn’t hurt my feelings either! While I would pick up a few of these while I was at the conference, I can’t tell you how many times I needed more than one recharge in a day for the iPhone and the iPad. Thankfully Powerrocks charges them all!

3. Go Go squeeZ: 
As the ambassador for Go Go squeeZ, I always have my green packs of fruity fun around. And when you’re hiking around Austin, waiting in line, or dying of hunger, go go is an awesome + easy way to get some fruit into system and eat it while I’m tweeting. I wish I had brought more for the hackers and power computer users who never left their laptop. Go Go makes it easy to eat over your computer without mess or from stopping what you’re doing. Believe me, you can subsist on Go Go squeeZ when you are on a deadline for many hours and have a sweet craving. 

4. Cords, Cords, and More Cords: 
Not only do you need to bring a small charger to keepy our devices running at SXSW, but you’ll also need to make sure to bring an extension cord. If you are taking notes and on your computer the whole time and have already gone through that recharge pack (or saving it for an emergency), make sure to utilize an opportunity to charge up your computer. And considering outlets may not be handy, having that cord can save you every time. I’ve learned this from other conferences and even if you don’t have to use it often, there’s always going to be that time you should have and didn’t. 

5. Boots. 
Yes, it seems so cliche, but it’s the truth. Any trip to Texas you should bring your boots. I actually had read a post about What to Wear to SXSW and the author mentioned boots. Considering I’m from Dallas/Fort Worth (well, Arlington), I thought that was only fitting for foreigners (people from outside of Texas), so I decided not to comply. Dumb girl. It rained so much on Saturday, even the most comfortable flats I own that are made for walking couldn’t handled the rain along 6th Street as I walked at least four miles that day. And it was cold too. So heed the advice: Bring your boots. Cowboy, rain or just cute riding ones – just leave the ones with the 4 inch heel at home. They just ain’t fittin’ as Mammie would say. 



I’ll definitely be sharing more about my experience at SXSW in coming posts, so make sure you stay tuned for the good stuff. 




Easy, Natural Spring Cleaning Tips from Mama Challenge on TV

March 11, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

This weekend the clock sprung forward an extra hour and for many of us it marked the unofficial beginning of spring…which also means spring cleaning! 

(Hold back the enthusiasm, right?) 

But when you are a busy mom with kids (and for me with two kids at home during spring break), it’s a REAL challenge to get caught up with that spring list of chores you’ve been holding off for months to do. 


This morning I conquered a few spring cleaning tips on WFAA Good Morning Texas using products you probably have at home that can make your job easier. And I even have a tip to get the kids involved, too! 

Check my Spring Cleaning segment here on Good Morning Texas. 





Here’s a list of some of my favorite tips we covered during this segment and soon I’ll have another segment air that will cover some more of the ways you can keep up on your Spring Cleaning list! 
SPRING CLEANING TIPS FROM MAMACHALLENGE

My Most Important Tip: Baking Soda isn’t just for refrigerators and baking anymore, folks!

Clean Your Mattress:
Have your child jump on bed to bring up dust from inside.
Then sprinkle with baking soda.
Then vacuum the mattress top.

Baking Soda as Silver Polish:
To polish silver: Wash items, then place on aluminum foil in the bottom of a pot. Add a baking-soda solution (¼ cup soda, a few teaspoons salt, 1 quart boiling water) and cover for a few seconds.

Use a Baking Soda paste for stains on your cups/plates.

Use a Baking Soda paste to clean stove instead of those corrosive oven cleaners.

 

Clean Your Stainless Steel with Baking Soda:

2 tbsp baking soda, ½ cup vinegar, 2 cups warm water. Put in a bottle once the suds have gone flat.


Clean Your Grout with Hydrogen Peroxide:Just dilute hydrogen peroxide with water before applying on the grout and then leave it for few minutes. It can also be applied in combination with baking soda.

Clean Your Microwave with Vinegar:
½ vinegar
½ water
Microwave and let it steam. Then wipe it down.

White Bread as Glass Magnet:
The next time a tumbler takes a tumble, sponge up the shards with a slice of bread. Even tiny slivers will cling to it.

What’s your favorite spring cleaning tip? 


TV ALERT: 
Watch me next week on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2014 
 for St. Pat’s Treats you can make with the kids! 



“Cool Tips for Healthy Lunches” on KTXD TVs D: The Broadcast

August 21, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 27 Comments

Wow Mom Wednesdays:

Going back to school is a hard transition — and so is getting back to the routine of making lunches for the kids. However, did you know it’s possible to make healthy lunches that kids will love to eat and not spend all night making them? Yep, you can with three easy tips and a few examples I shared today with the amazing Pat Smith on KTXD TVs D: The Broadcast today. She’s a mama of five kids with Dallas Cowboys great Emmitt Smith and runs her own busy non-profit for women called Treasure You.

She’s an amazing woman, so I was so excited to share a little time in the spotlight and give her a few tips I think might help you, too!




Do you have any healthy lunchbox tips to share? 

Also, you can check out my other TV appearances here!

The Best Places to Find + Post Garage Sales

July 18, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 4 Comments

To-Do Thursdays:

Last weekend the rain convinced me to face up to a task that had been looming for a long, long time. 


I finally had to clean out my kids’ rooms. 

My youngest was getting ready for potting training so she was ready to move up to a big-girl bed and the oldest recently announced to me that it was time to move out the Thomas the Tank Engine and bring out the Legos. (There were tears when he told me.) 

But to be honest, there was a lot more to do than that. I needed to pull out those old toys, clothes, shoes and whatever else that we had finally outgrown and send them to storage. You see I hadn’t gotten rid of anything from either of kids since they were born. (Shame, right?) 

So before people started to make a call to the show Hoarders, I moved out the old stuff and put them in storage with all the other stuff we were holding on to. Except this time, I couldn’t close the door. And there wasn’t enough Rubbermaid to organize all this craziness. I needed to make like a cheerleader and purge (just kidding.) 

And since all the junk was a big eye sore each time I walked by, I needed to rid my house of the crap quickly (especially before I began to think about keeping that “one” outfit that would without a doubt turn into 20.) 

Considering there was that much stuff, everything pointed to the idea that I needed to host a garage sale. But since I don’t go to garage sales and the only one I ever had made like $20, I went on a mad search for how the age of technology had changed garage sales. 

Seven online sites you can find (and post) a garage sale in your area:

  1. Craigslist.org
  2. Yardsalesearch.com
  3. Gsalr.com (this one even has a cool app that maps your garage sales!)
  4. Yardsales.net
  5. Atgaragesale.com
  6. Online Private Facebook groups (you may have to research these, but they are controlled groups on Facebook that keep the “Craiglist experience” more local.)
  7. And don’t forget to look at your local newspaper. (Many of them offer really cheap online ads for garage sale listings that can be both print and online!) 

Good to Know: 
I also needed to add that BEFORE having a garage sale, make sure you check your city’s rules on hosting a garage sale. Some request a permit, some don’t and there may be other rules for signage, ordinances, etc. For instance in Arlington, Texas, we have all kinds of rules on garage sales like where we can post a sign and that you can only host a sale no more than twice a year. 

AND of course, if you are looking for GIRLS & BOYS BABY/KIDS CLOTHES,FURNITURE AND TOYS for ages 0-4, then come on out to see me on Saturday! 




Got Bugs? 5 Tips for a Bug-Free Summer 2013

July 8, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo 6 Comments

Does it seem like your house has been taken over by gnats and flies? I know I’ve had out my fly swatter every day and have been like a mad woman trying to clean up every crumb after my children in hopes that I wouldn’t wake up with some new friends swarming my sink. I mean we aren’t gross people, so what’s with all the bugs? 

After I had this same conversation with about five different people in one day, I figured it was time to go to the professionals. But who? It was easy to find the answer: www.gotbugs.com.


Arriving right on time after only making my appointment only about 48-hours before, my friendly “bug man” came out and take a look to give me some tips I could do my self on what I could do to not feel like I lived in Oscar the Grouch’s garbage can. 

I had several questions for him, but went straight for the biggie: 
“What’s with all the bugs?” 

He explained that since we had such a mild winter season with very few cold storms, the bugs from last year never died. “Basically, there was no kill season – so they had an extended mating opportunity.” 

Oh gross. But now it was on to finding a way to get rid of the little buggers. 

With just a quick walk around my yard, he was able to give me a few thing I could actually do. 

{This is the part you take notes.}

TIP #1: Move the trash away from the door. 
One of the common places for people to put their trash and undoubtedly one of the easiest ways for bugs to get in the house is to leave it next to the back door. While it may not be as convenient, moving our trash just a few feet has greatly changed the number of bugs we’ve seen. 

We all remember last year we were all on West Nile watch. While there have been cases this year, it’s nothing compared to the issues we had in summer 2012, thank goodness. But there are things we can do to prevent as much risk as possible. 

TIP #2: Avoid going outdoors from 7-9 pm (dusk) to alleviate your risk for mosquitos.  
One of the things I learned was that mosquitos like to perch on the underside of bushes – so basically, you can’t get to them by just spraying them yourself. (Super, right?) That means you have to take other precautions to keep those pests away. But since I’m not going to put a timer on my summer entertaining, he also suggest another tip:

TIP #3: Whoa on the water. 
Not only does watering your yard too much add to water shortage issues, but it also makes it a nice environment for the skeeters to live. 

While we are also talking about water, make sure that you have all leaks and sprinklers fixed as well as any water sources at a minimal so the mosquitos don’t have a place to nest. Keep gutters clean and unclogged so it is unable to hold water as well as make sure your downspouts drain properly, without leaving puddles in the drainage area. 


Tip #3: Mind the gaps. 
Bugs are always looking for places to live – including the cracks in your walls. So by filling in the cracks with sprayable insulation or even using a small square of folded window screen can help from bugs taking home in your home. 

But there are a couple of gaps you actually should increase between you and infestation. First, make sure to trim back your shrubs trimmed back from the walls (basically overgrown plant life just help build easy road ways for critters to get around.) And thinking you’re being so smart to trim your trees and then pile them close to the house to use for firewood? Think again. Your pile just become an apartment complex for termites. 

Oh, how fast can I move those limbs, right? 


TIP #4: Keep your yard mowed and the garden mulched. 

A manicured lawn is actually an unhospitable place for critters – including ticks, ants, fleas and mosquitos. Basically, if they don’t have a comfortable place to hang out, they won’t (as much at least.) So keep those blades at bay with a weekly whacking. 

And one more helpful tip he offered is if you find tick or fleas in your yard, you probably have another problem – a much bigger pest that is keeping them happy and fed. (That’s a whole other discussion that includes rats, squirrels, opposums…)

TIP #5:  Go green and plant your own insecticides. 

There’s a whole industry built on sprays, fogs, powders and more to help cope with your yard. Unfortunately most of them don’t work (I say that from my own experience.) So consider natural options. While sage, jasmine, and mint are good for your herb garden, they aren’t good for bugs. So bring on the fragrant plants to help get rid of the bugs. 


While of course, there are many things I need to leave to the professionals, I was so appreciative of just the couple tips he shared for me to help get rid of my guests. And when you Got Bugs, then call the guys at Metroguard Termite Pest Control.


Disclaimer: There was no compensation or services rendered in exchange for this post. Metroguard Pest Control provided only their time and knowledge for the purpose of this review. 

5 Quick Tips to Making Family Count TODAY

February 27, 2013 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Want-it Wednesday:

This Want-it Wednesday, all I want is a BREAK from the crazy. And of course when mama’s crazy, so is the rest of the family.
And then I found her and it – at least a way to close down the crazy and to make our family make those valuable moments count. 

Susan Sachs Lipman, founder of slowfamilyonline.com, writer for Christian Science Monitor‘s Modern Parenthood, is also author of Fed up with Frenzy, which teaches parents how to incorporate Slow Parenting into their family’s hectic lives and trade in frenzy for quality family time. She shared a few quick tips to help me take a deep breath through special techniques and tips like:

1. Slowing Down the Morning Rush- Instead of battling the busy drop off rush at your child’s school, take time to park the car a few blocks away and walk your child to school. This strengthens family connection and starts the day off in a relaxing and peaceful way.

2. Make Meal Time Meaningful- Dinner is one of the few times families get to spend time together during the day. Make the most out of dinnertime by picking a family question to share, for example, “What’s the funniest thing that happened during your day?” Families can also create fun bonding time by picking recipes, and preparing meals together throughout the week.

3. Say No to More Things- Parents don’t have to serve on every school committee and children should not sign up for a lot of activities. More pleasure comes from devotion to one thing at a time and free play, rather than organized activity.

4. Give Your Electronics The Day Off- Call for a family “day of rest” from technology. This can be incredibly restorative, to give full attention to your loved ones. Even cutting out a 30 minute TV show and substituting it with a family walk or game can add joy to your life.

5. Do a Fun Activity or Craft- Many wonderful activities like making sock puppets, pinecone bird feeders, or singing around a campfire have gotten lost in the hustle and bustle of our overly scheduled lives. These fun activities can bond families and create lifelong memories.

Source: etsy.com via Cherae on Pinterest



While I’m rarely the one to “take time out,” this book has empowered me to be a better role model for my kids to take time to making it count. It’s about honoring life’s simple pleasures in the relatively short time we’re all here together. It’s about connecting to that part of ourselves and our families that somehow got lost in the shuffle of our busy lives.


Slow down the frenzy. Enjoy the family. 

Fed Up Frenzy
Susan Sachs Lipman
Sourcebooks
Buy on Amazon.com
ISCLAIMER:
I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC’s 16 CFR Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)

5 Tips to Not Gaining 5 Pounds During the Holidays

November 8, 2012 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

One of my biggest “mama challenges” is my weight. 

So much so I wait to buy my Halloween candy until the day before because I know I’ll begin trick or treating a little early…That kicks off the weight-gain season and last until Jan. 2, when I vow not to ever eat anything unhealthy ever again…ha. (If you’ve ever taken a look at my Foodspotting shots or my Pinterest Food Board, you know that food, especially the unhealthy stuff, is my downfall.)

Actually not that I don’t know what it is healthy; it’s my control issues that get in the way. I always feel like if I don’t “partake” them I’m missing out. But I’m learning that the only things I am really “missing out” from are wearing the cute clothes I have tucked away in my closet that I wore before I had kids and the years I’d add to my life if I was healthier.
Since the official “party” season has already hit – with my October birthday, Halloween, a trip to Napa and soon Thankgiving, Christmas (and all the stuff in between), I’ve decided to make a plan on how I can try to celebrate WITHOUT packing on the extra weight.  So I’ve enlisted a professional expert to get me moving in the right direction: Susan Albers, Psy.D, author of Eating Mindfully.


Whether you’re throwing a girl get-together or a formal holiday soiree, you can help yourself and your friends eat more mindfully.
Here are some sneaky tips to help your guests avoid eating too much by DO THIS – NOT THAT! Hopefully this might make the holidays something I can really enjoy and not dread after the festivities are over!
Do This!
Not That
Turn the lights down low and play soft music
Fast paced music and bright lights.  
A study by a researcher out of Cornell found that people who ate in a fine dining like setting ate less on average 775.3 calories (vs 942.2 calories) than when listening to fast music.  In this atmosphere, people talk more and eat slower.
Red Plates
White plates

A study in the journal of Appetite found that people eat less on red plates compared to white or blue.  Whether it is a plate or sign, we think stop when we see red!
Food you Eat with Forks
Appetizers
According to the “Pistachio Effect,” food that you can easily pop in your mouth such as appetizers leads to overeating.  Eating slowly with a fork can save you a minimum of 100 calories.
Get out your tall, thin drinking glasses
Short, fat drinking glasses
Hide your short glasses!  Drinking alcohol can lead to overeating.  A tall glass creates an optical illusion that you are drinking more than a short wide cup—even though they are exactly the same amount according to research by Dr. Brain Wansink.
Keep the party food in a different room than socializing or place the buffet against the wall
A food buffet in the middle of the room.

Research indicates that where you place food matters.  
You can save 200 plus calories by moving food off to the side of the room.
So now the challenge begins!
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

Best Wine is Clean-Crafted: Directly Delivered

Save on Fun All Year Long! Code: MAMACHALLENGE

Reo Kids Review: Mario Kart Live Nintendo Switch

Guide to Anti-Valentine's Day with Galentine's Day

SHOP MAMACHALLENGE!


More TV Segments Not To Miss

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Oh, Pumpkin! Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chips

FiberOneFlavor7

4 Ingredient Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Macaroni-Cheese-Bar

Hostess with the Mostest: Macaroni and Cheese Bar

You’ll LOVE This!

logo
Food Advertisements by
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.

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Pictures Say a 1000 Words

mamachallenge

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

Autumn Reo | Mamachallenge.com
A 🌹 for a rose! Can’t get over this gorgeous A 🌹 for a rose!

Can’t get over this gorgeous arrangement from @sofortworthit! Now this serves as a reminder of how happy this delivery made me! 

Surround yourself with people who make you feel good and you’ll always do better! ♥️
My little cheerleader took to the field tonight at My little cheerleader took to the field tonight at Boswell v Trinity Trojan Football! Ts Up! 📣
But I can see us lost in the memory August slipped But I can see us lost in the memory August slipped away into a moment in time…almost.

🍹 Swift n ‘Swigs @arlingtonmuseum 

#taylorswift #august #arlingtontx #dfw #dallas
Back to School doesn’t mean summer’s over YET! Back to School doesn’t mean summer’s over YET! 

You still have time to head to the PGA Frisco for Family Night Summer Movie Series for all the fun in one spot with outdoor on the big screen starting at dark (8 pm.) 

🍿August 18 - Parent Trap
🍿August 25 - Secret Life of Pets

Even if you aren’t a golfer, there’s not of fun for everyone including: 
⛳️ Putting green called the Dance Floor for just $5 (they have the putters and you get to take home your ball!) 
🎯Playing games at the Lounge by TopGolf and TopGolf Swing Suite technology
🍕Tons of food (and drinks🍷) 
🍦Don’t miss Margaret’s Cones & Cups for the best ice cream (and people!) 

And don’t miss: 
⛳️ Omni PGA Frisco Resort - In addition to premiere golf, the resort includes one pools, spas or one of resort’s restaurants.
⛳️ The Swing - Gil Hanse and Beau Welling designed this lighted, 10-hole, par-3 course with holes ranging from 45 to 100 yards.
⛳️ Ice House - Just for the adults, head out to this beer garden with six bays views overlooking The Swing.
⛳️ PGA Coaching Center - The 12K sq. ft. PGA Coaching Center combines coaching, club fitting, and fitness elements for all ages and skill levels.

Get the deets: https://pgafrisco.com/events

#PGADistrict #OmniPGAFrisco #FriscoTX #VisitTexas #Texas #DFW #PGA #Texastodo #Texastodo #visitfrisco #texastravel #texasblogger #Mamachallenge #FamilyNightOut
The best worst kept secret in DFW is McKinney, Tex The best worst kept secret in DFW is McKinney, Texas. 🤫

Recently featured on Good Morning America, this “suburb” is like all the stuff you want in a small town and all the stuff you still need in a big town - and SO. MUCH. MORE. When a meetup of friends gave me a chance to experience the downtown McKinney Square on a Saturday morning, I’ve spent every weekend since trying to find a reason to go back. 

A few of my favorites included: 
📍 Farmers Market at Chestnut Square Heritage Village (@chestnutsquaremckinney)
📍 Local Yocal BBQ (@localyocalfarmtomarket)
📍 Red Zepplin Records (@redzeppelinrecords)
📍 My Favorite Room (@myfavoriteroombykbmdesigns)
📍 Boho Moonchild (@bohomoonchildjewelry)
📍 Homeology (@homeology_interiors)
📍 The Yard (@theyardmckinneytx)
AND SO MANY MORE I HAVEN’T VISITED!

With so much to offer from a huge farmers market, local art, cool spots to eat and drink and so many unique spots to shop, I was already creating my itinerary for “next time” before I left. (So I am open to recommendations for places to stay if you have them!) 

Thank you, @VisitMcKinneyTX & @downtownmckinney for inviting me. 

#TheMcKinneyExperience #McKinneyTexas #McKinney #DFW #SmallTownTexas #Texas #DallasTX #DallasInfluencer #VisitTexas #Texastodo #visitmckinney #texastravel #texasblogger
It’s Christmas in July! Sharing some of my favo It’s Christmas in July!

Sharing some of my favorite @amazonprime Day Deals on @wfaagmt! 

Make sure to head to my highlights for the links to these deals.

…Don’t forget to sign up for @rakuten and @Honey to make sure you’re getting the best price (and where you can get it for less!)

Comment SHOP and we will send you links to all these deals!

#mamachallenge #primeday #amazon #dallas #autumnreo #primedaydeals #ltkxprimeday
Today the big day! Whether you’re on a long ho Today the big day! 

Whether you’re on a long holiday or you’re just squeezing in today, here are a couple of quick ideas to get you in the spirit of Independence Day as (featured on @wfaagmt!

These are so easy you don’t need a recipe - but if you do send us a DM and I can help you out!)

#july4th #redwhiteandblue #mamachallenge #dfw #dallas #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger #goodmorningtexas #abc
I’m be waited my whole life for this Oscar…⭐ I’m be waited my whole life for this Oscar…⭐️ 

Oscar party that is! We created an Academy Award-worthy party plan anyone can host - including a menu you don’t even really need to cook and games! 

🌟 Get the free download #ontheblog for #Oscar Bingo! 

📺 Get the link to the @wfaagmt segment in Stories. 

#oscars #academyawards2023
IYKYK. #TacoTuesday And for you #keto fans, you b IYKYK. #TacoTuesday

And for you #keto fans, you better write this one down!

I’ve never heard of @jimboystacos (even though it’s been around since the 50s), but I’m so glad I have now. Errands brought me to the drive-thru at its one of 2 Texas location in #FortWorth. 

Three cars in line must mean it’s good, so I rolled up and low and behold they have #keto taco - chicken, pick, avocado, cheese and even a southwest sauce - all wrapped up with a lettuce leaf! While it wasn’t the prettiest taco it definitely was one of my faves! And since I was there, I grabbed a few others for the family to try. So. Freaking. Good.

I would say I have a new favorite especially with all its fresh ingredients, but the Keto Taco is only here until March 15. So get yours while you can 🌮 

Thanks, Jimboy for nudging me in the right direction for tacos!

#jimboytacos #dallasblogger #dfweats #fwfood #dallasinfluencers #dfwinfluencer #mamachallenge #dfwfoodie #fwfoodie
So much to love! ❤️ There’s so much I coul So much to love! ❤️ 

There’s so much I could say that I love on this special day, but at the top of the list is my son who first made me a mama! While it is Valentine’s Day, for me February is also always a reminder that it is congenital heart defect awareness month, a condition that one and 100 children are diagnosed with every year, including my son when he was born. Thankfully we had access to care that saved his life. But only 1 in 10 kids has access to healthcare to help them. 
So any time I can support CHD research and awareness, we want to give back. I am excited the @dallasjackals (actually located in #ArlingtonTx) are donating $5 dollars to @childrensheartlink with every $20 purchased! 

Get link in my stories for this special deal!

#chd #chdawareness #childrensheartlink #dallasjackals #heartbabies #chdwarrior❤️
Did you hear there are actions to make Christmas t Did you hear there are actions to make Christmas to last for the entire winter season?

I can’t believe we’re in the homestretch and there are so many things I haven’t had a chance to see and do. However, one we don’t miss is #DaystarChristmas by @daystar.

Perfectly situated near @dfwairport in HEB, this free event is open nightly 6 pm - 11 pm. While Santa has already returned to the North Pole, it’s a beautiful self-paced walkthrough where you experience:
🌟 2 million lights
🌟 Light Maze
🌟 Life-size Manager
🌟 Photo Backdrops galore

The ideal spot for photos, catching up and then heading to dinner nearby like @gladeparkstexas. 

Tip: Go later for less crowds! Bring your jacket and gloves. Be patient and enjoy the time together. 

#eulesstx #bedfordtx #viridiandfw #dfw #dallasinfluencer #dfwholiday #dallas #fortworth #mamachallenge
Go wild this holiday at the Dallas Zoo Lights pres Go wild this holiday at the Dallas Zoo Lights presented by Reliant at the @DallasZoo! 🦒 

A new Christmas activity for us to experience, this event makes the zoo sparkle with millions of lights as you walk through installations, s’mores around the fire, fun activities for the kids, light show and and you can’t miss Santa (the kids are still talking about their visit with him!)

💡 Get your tickets in advance to reserve your cup of cheer (with cocoa and treats in your souvenir cup) ready for you when you arrive! 

📍 Dallas Zoo Lights - Dallas Zoo
Now - Jan. 1, 2023
Get your tickets online at DallasZoo.com

#DallasZooLights
New York may have the Rockefeller tree, but Dallas New York may have the Rockefeller tree, but Dallas has the tree at Galleria Dallas! 🌲 

Taking a photo with the tree or watching it light up with Missile Toes skating around it, is Bucket List Christmas in DFW.

However this year they’ve turned it up even more with SNOW ❄️! At special times throughout the day, you can experience snow falling for a White Christmas moment!

Snowfall in the Alley:
Now - December 24
Monday - Thursday: 5pm and 7pm
Friday - Saturday: 2pm, 5pm and 7pm
Sunday: 2pm and 5pm

And don’t miss Santa! But you’ll take a journey to see him through @snowdaypop! Travel via train and there enjoy holiday with innovative immersive experience and best of all they take the 
Snowday (Level 1, near Banana Republic) 
Now-January 8
(Reservations recommended)

You still have time to experience the Grand Holiday Ice Show today! 

And make Illumination Celebration a part of your holiday with Illumination Celebration!
Meet at the nation’s tallest indoor Christmas tree for a special music and light show. 

November 25 - December 24
12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm

Don’t miss @GalleriaDallas for the Holidays this season! 

#GalleriaDallas #DFW #Mamachallenge #GalleriaHoliday #dallas #DTX
🎪 DFW Holiday 2022 Bucket List: ‘Twas the Nig 🎪 DFW Holiday 2022 Bucket List: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Cirque Du Soleil! 🎪

Looking for something different for your holiday fun? Then this is the one. It will make everybody and every age smile and get in the holiday mood (even the teens!) 

Flips, jumps, lights, audience interaction, and Santa Claus! It's a beautiful bridge of a classic done in a whole new interactive way! 

🎪 Get your tickets now (try for section 200!) Now - Dec. 11, 2022!

🎪 Snacks + drinks are available, but you should eat dinner before or be ready for a late dinner! 

🎪 Attire is business casual, but make it fun for a festive, fun night out! 

🎪 Pair it with a trip to @Prairie Lights for 
the ultimate fun in #GrandPrairie! 

#CirqueTwas #twasthenightbeforechristmas #hosted #dfw #mamachallenge #visitdallas #visitgrandprairie #DFWInfluencer #DFWHoliday #DallasBlogger
Sums up this month about right. October has defi Sums up this month about right. 

October has definitely flown by and I couldn’t believe how many of my favorite experiences we didn’t get to attend, but an afternoon at @sixflagsovertexas took care of a lot of my fall bucket list! Halloween fun, seeing the leaves start to change, one of the best strudels + a true Oktoberfest bier, and picture moments galore - we’re all checked off! 

With three festivals - including Fright Fest, Boo Fest and a new Oktoberfest Food Festival, the whole family had a great day at @sixflagsovertexas. And paired with a flash pass and an All day cup (thank you, Six Flags) you can’t go wrong enjoying Texas fall in #DFW.

🤩 Plus make sure to stop and read the gravestones- they name all the rides that have gone out of rotation. 

#sixflags #sixflagsmemories #arlingtontx #aworldofwonderful #dfw #dfwevents #dallasblogger
Just in time for the 70th Birthday of #BigTex, we Just in time for the 70th Birthday of #BigTex, we celebrated with a family trip to the @statefairoftx. 

There’s always so much to see and do, but for us it’s the FOOD! So many people asked us what’s the best thing thing to eat, so here’s our short list of #musteats at the State Fair of Texas!

✔️Every good Texan knows your first stop (and also your last) is @fletcherscornydogs. But did you know there’s more than the original to try? Go for the Dallas Hot Bird Dog dippes in spicy batter, deep-fried, split open and then piled high max and cheese, @cholulahotsauce and crispy jalapeños. #Daymade and you just started!

✔️ Pay homage to the to who @texasmonthly calls the “high priest of frying, @chef_abel, and order up his newest creation, the Doh-Muf: part fluffy donut, part muffin and all goodness with Bavarian cream and coated in banana nut muffin batter. Want to up the ante? Then while you’re there, snag the fried PBJ. (Ask for the Priscilla, just like the King.)

✔️ Don’t fly off too far…get another new dish - the Texas Ranch Hog Wings from @nevinsconcessions. Grab lots of napkins and The Fried Charcuterie Board from this dynamic duo.

✔️ I hope you’re not full because we aren’t finished yet - it’s time to get your greens on from @chefcassy. Deep fried collard greens of course served with a honey-glazed chicken wing! 🐔 

✔️ Quite possibly the fastest thing we ate - was the Ultimate Brookie Monster from @smokeyjohnsbbq. It may not be pretty, but with chocolate chip cookie + brownie, @oreo, marshmallow, all deep fried and served with @bluebellicecream, cheesecake crumbles and strawberry sauce…it’s the ultimate dessert (because everything is in it!)

✔️ Like a corn dog, no trip to the fair is complete without a funnel cake from @ferniesfunnelcakes. It’s the perfect nibble as you people watch your way through the fair (and burn off a few calories before you eat again.)

✔️ So you done yet? You might be for now, so make sure to grab your @stifflersmomscookiefactory to go and wash it down with a dirty soda (ask and they’ll show you!)

HBD, #BigTex - we enjoyed it!

🎡 🌮 🌯🍗🍩

#Texas #statefairoftexas #statefair #deepfrieddynasty #dfw #dallas #statefairfood
If only every #tacotuesday was like this. 🌮 I If only every #tacotuesday was like this. 🌮 

I can’t help but take up on a good challenge, so when @visit_arlington asked what was my vote favorite taco during their #SavetheTacos campaign, I couldn’t let them down. ✔️ 

With 12 restaurants ready to face off for the title of “Arlington’s Favorite Taco,” anyone can vote and then win prizes for making their vote. 

Wanna play? You have 12 tacos and 10 days to make your 🗳.

My favorite? I’ll never tell, but I sure did have a good time doing the research.

This is what #TacoTuesday was made for.

#ArlingtonTexas #ArlingtonTx #aworldofwonderful #arlington #dfw #tacos #taco #dallasblogger #dfwinfluencer
BBQ leftovers? 

If you happen to have any, what’s your favorite way to put them to work in the kitchen?

I’m talking ways to use that sausage, brisket or smoked chicken from July 4th on @wfaagmtthis!
🇺🇸 Green Sauce for Brisket Breakfast Tacos
🇺🇸 Smoked Chicken Salad
🇺🇸 One-Pan Sausage, Potato and Green Bean Dinner

#july4 #independenceday #gmt #goodmorningtexas #bbq #brisket #dallas #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger
When mom is away, the minions will play. 👀 I w When mom is away, the minions will play. 👀

I was away for work and a special box from @universalpictures @theslyfoxclub showed up! 

My miniboss (and her accomplice) busted it open and made their own unboxing video to send to mom (check my Instastories). 

As much fun as they had making the unboxing video, we had to go see @Minions The Rise of Gru opening night. We both loved it (and the soundtrack is winning especially when your kiddo sings The Rolling Stones on the way home!)

➡️ See #Minions #TheRiseOfGru only in theaters TODAY! 

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

#minions #TheRiseofGru #Ad
DFW: It’s Good Friday - so do something good! S DFW: It’s Good Friday - so do something good!

Sign up for the The Heroes for Children 5K & Family Fun Run happening tomorrow, April 23 at Hall Park in #FriscoTx!

This is family-friendly race and party to raise awareness and funds for families affected by pediatric cancer in Texas presented by @heroesforchildren! This Dallas-based org advocates for and provides financial and social assistance to families with children battling cancer throughout Texas. 

🥇 5K runners receive an event T-shirt and the first 300 finishers receive a special Heroes for Gold Ribbon medal. 

Also enjoy:
🏃‍♀️ family fun zone
🏃‍♂️ community sponsored events
🏃‍♀️ Gold Go Gold Art exhibit
 
🏃‍♀️ Register now: https://www.heroesforchildren.org/5k-funrun-frisco and save $5 with promo code HEROESRUN5!

###
#dfw #heroesforchildren #run #easter #dallas #frisco #pediatriccancer
Load More Follow on Instagram

Follow Along!

Tweets by @mamachallenge

Copyright © 2023 · Magazine Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in