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Gaylord Texan Lone Star Christmas

December 6, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

There’s tons to do in Dallas – Fort Worth during the holidays. One of our mamachallenge favorites is indoor fun for everyone at the Gaylord Texan Lone Star Christmas. While only a few miles away from home, it feels like we’ve traveled to a winter wonderland.

We already had breakfast with Santa and experienced some of the magical activities the America’s Dream City has to offer. Now we’re going to hop in our cars and drive a little farther west to Grapevine, home of the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center for a Lone Star Christmas.

You and your family will marvel at displays that include:

2 million holiday lights decorating the resort’s indoor atriums
2 million pounds of hand-carved ice for ICE! featuring “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town”
2 million pounds of real Texas snow for a two-story tall, 12-lane snow tubing hill
6,000-square- foot outdoor ice skating rink
54-foot- tall Christmas tree adorning the center atrium
Magical miniature train sets throughout the property
25-foot-tall Nutcrackers overlooking joyful families
2,300 decorated wreaths, 5,600 feet of garland
15,000 festive ornaments…

“And a patridge in a pear tree!”

A Lone Star Christmas has activities that will put every member of the family into the holiday spirit – from the little ones who still leave out cookies for Santa to your hashtag-talking, slightly know-it-all teenager who would rather be at home than at a family outing. . You can enjoy visits with Santa, Snow tube and drink milk & cookies with Mrs. Claus, participate in The Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt or walk through the ICE! that features an all new theme this year – Christmas Around the World!

We don’t get a lot of snow here in North Texas, but the folks at the Gaylord have made sure that we still are able to enjoy a Winter Wonderland with real snow! Twelve lanes of tubing fun are available, and you can slide down by yourself or with a friend. There are a few restrictions for the tubing, so make sure you visit the website for all of rules, requirements and hours of operations.

If you haven’t gone through the ICE! exhibit, than my friend, you are in for a treat. They start assembling the middle of October when 40 ice artisans travel all the way from China to Grapevine to start carving away at 2 million pounds of ice into magical holiday scenes, brilliant characters, and “On the Blocks” ice bar (21 & up), five ice slides and take the visitors on a journey of through holiday’s favorite cartoon, “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town!”

Plus, as you travel the world through the 14,000-square-foot that is kept at chilly 9 degrees, you get to wear these warm parkas that maybe one of the best parts of the whole trip. There’s no way you can put on these coats and not instantly feel all warm, fuzzy and “Christmasy.” No other way.

If you’re traveling from out of town, the Gaylord Texan offers several overnight options that will make your it is encouraged to make a full experience and stay at the Gaylord Texan. There are several overnight options that will be cost effective for your visit. Another good thing to note is that there are several combo packages available if you want to do both the ICE! and the snow tubing. The Gaylord Texan is making it super easy to have a Texas-size Christmas!

Check out our SNEAK PEEK of the ICE! 2016 at the Gaylord Texan

Gaylord Texan’s Lone Star Christmas

November 10, 2016 – January 1, 2017

1501 Gaylord Trail

Grapevine, Texas 76051

Website

Glamping, Texas Style

November 3, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 22 Comments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #FallGlamping #CollectiveBias

I’m not much of a camping kinda girl.

But glamping (i.e. glamorous camping) – that’s more my style.

I can enjoy Mother Nature much more when there’s I’m biting into a ooey-gooey s’more wrapped up in a soft, cashmere blanket in my own Pinterest-perfect oasis. For me that’s the only way to camp.

So for this glamping trip, we headed to Walmart to stock up on the essentials for our luxury trip to the outdoors. A go-to resource for camping, I found both the must-haves for camping as well as the beautiful “Texas” touches to really upgrade our trip the wild (or in this case a spot not too far from home, but just far enough to enjoy the stars).

Comfort and cute is the name of the game for glamping, so I grabbed a few items to really make it homey like LED battery candles, lanterns (on sale), a few flower arrangements (you can’t always be sure what you’ll find in the wild), a warm, lush white down-like comforter, and tons of pillows. A few necessities haves included large clear jars with a little burlap for giving it that rustic, shabby-chic look, an easy-to-put-up tent, a table and chairs, and of course, an air mattress is a must-have to have you waking up like a princess the next day.

My favorite find was this no-setup picnic table all-in-one that I found on Walmart.com and using their new unlimited shipping feature, Shipping Pass, was able to get it delivered to my door in just three days. (I’m a HUGE FAN of this new option and of course, the Walmart Site-to-Store option makes finding everything you need for glamping possible!)

Since the menu plays a huge part of creating the ideal glamping experience. I mean what’s the point of all the work of putting up a tent and all the beautiful details, if you don’t have something to look forward?

But the menu doesn’t need to be hard to make or take too long to have ready either.

Just like glamping, Freschetta® is about the details with a homemade taste using only premium ingredients and a fresh-baked crust that is made like fresh baked bread, so it’s like you made your own, but with no work and only 15-20 minutes over the grill! (And there’s a gluten-free and cheese only version, too to fit all your campers needs!) That’s why Freschetta® Brick Oven Pizza is a great go-to for camping; you can make it over the grill for the ideal meal that’ll have you finishing every bite especially with my Roasted Garlic Butter Sauce! And no camping or glamping experience is complete without s’mores, but we added our own unique twist with S’mores Donuts using Honey Maid Graham Crackers, Hershey’s Chocolate, and Kraft Marshmallows.

Setting the Scene

As the backdrop for our outdoor escape, I found this beautiful area surrounded by trees for a little privacy and super shade. A few fallen tree trunks also made for some additional seating especially to enjoy the nearby sound of the recently filled running stream just steps from the glamp site.

Designing the whole space only took 30 minutes! Starting with tent, I added a large outdoor patio rug to keep for keeping our “home away from home” also as clean as possible. Next using a pallet I had in the garage for the finishing piece, a laid up a headboard (you can normally find these at a large store or somewhere there is a lot of shipping, just ask if they’ll let you have one.) Then it was time for the air mattress, cozy comforter and a little mood lighting!

Lighting is key for making it the beautiful and comfortable space you’re little for when glamping. Using a bungee cord and this LED battery operated lantern (for just around $10), I created a bedroom chandelier for a little just-the-right lighting once the sun goes down. And a few LED battery operated candles (made of real wax) give the space ambiance without the fear of catching fire or burning out!

Pillows add all the punch for making a glamping space your creative own! While I was able to find adorable cow print pillows at Walmart, you can design your own, with any throw pillow and two handkerchiefs (or two large square pieces of material.) I just tied them at the corners and voilà, new pillows!

My treasure find at Walmart.com was this amazing pine wood rocking chair (on big sale) to really set the scene for this outdoor retreat. Paired with an outdoor side table and a few “candles,” this natural wood rocker is ideal for staying up for hours talking, reading a book, pondering life, or just enjoying sipping coffee the next morning after the first break of day after a super slumber.

For me, pretty doesn’t have to be complicated, so a little burlap made for an easy table runner, a few tall glass jars with candles, and a little twine for that detailed touch. I also made these bouquet of flowers by with several bunched up recycled coffee filters and inserting the ends into straws to use as the centerpiece for our dining decor.

Now that we finished the fab, it’s on to the food!

No need to make glamping hard, make sure to bring a cutting board and have either your own grill/fire pit available for the easiest and safest way of cooking up a mouthwatering meal that doesn’t have to take hours to create! First off, start your fire! Using self-starting charcoal (the briquettes already have lighter fluid on them), you can rock a fire ready to cook in just around 10 minutes using the grid-pattern technique. Lay out the charcoal one-by-one in a grid covering the whole grate/floor of your cooking device and then light the four briquettes at each corner with a large lighter! In seconds, you’ll have a fire roaring and be ready to go.

While Freschetta® Brick Oven Pizza is already good, we took it first-class by adding a roasted garlic butter sauce (with only two ingredients) for the golden touch! Garlic and butter always make everything better and this little trick can be done anytime (including in your oven at home) to make your meal really wow!

Roasted Garlic Butter Sauce

Taking a bulb of garlic, on the cutting board slice the stem just about 1/2 inch to expose the cloves. Place the garlic in the middle of double foil and making a little bowl around the bottom so you can add oil (olive or vegetable will work) directly to the garlic (about 2-3 tablespoons). Then close the garlic with the remaining foil ends to create a little “garlic” flower and add it directly to the fire source (I actually laid mine in the coals.)

Making Pizza on the Grill

While the garlic cooks in the fire, it’s a perfect time to get started on the pizza! To make the best grilled pizza over an open flame, all you’ll need is two pieces of foil to lay on the grate and Freschetta® Brick Oven Pizza. Remove everything from the pizza and place it frozen right over the foil. Now all you have to do is wait 15-20 minutes until the crust is browned and the cheese is melted!

While the pizza is cooling for a few minutes, also take out the garlic and allow it to cool slightly. Open the foil and you’ll find that the garlic smells like heaven and has “melted” into a paste-like creamy consistency! Using a towel or something to keep your hands from the heat, you’ll squeeze the garlic into a small bowl (about two tablespoons) along with the butter (about 3-4 tablespoons) and mix!

And that’s it for the sauce!

Now just dip your cut slices of pizza into the sauce to enjoy every bite from start to finish!

S’mores Donuts

Now you can’t forget the s’mores when you go camping or glamping – it’s like a rule! But sometimes you gotta change up the rules a little bit! So whether you eat these S’mores Donuts for breakfast or dessert, they’re going to knock your socks off with the right amount of marshmallow and chocolate inside the donut (made from canned biscuits) and of course, the crunch of the Honey Maid Graham Cracker for the finishing touch.

While making these little babies takes no time at all, the trick is getting the oil hot enough to “fry” the biscuits. I recommend putting your pot or dutch oven (another must for camping) with two-inches of vegetable oil over the fire while you’re cooking other items, so it’s ready when you are! You’ll know it’s the right temperate by testing it first by adding a small part of a biscuit to the oil to make sure it bubbles.

Now add one large marshmallow (I don’t recommend the jumbos though) and one small chocolate (Hershey’s miniatures are just the right size) and sandwich them between two raw biscuits, pinching the sides until it’s closed. Next add the biscuit to the oil until it’s golden (it won’t but just a few seconds depending on the temperature of the oil.) Using tongs, transfer the biscuit to a plate and quickly add add another chocolate (or drizzle just a little melted chocolate) and finish with graham cracker crumbs!

Now it’s ready to sink your teeth into! Like any s’more this donut can be a little messy, but it actually can last longer than traditional s’mores so you can munch on them into the night. However, they are best served warmed and eaten with your fingers for all the fun!

Now doesn’t this just say home sweet home?!? Little cleanup, little work and lots of good food with a fabulous place to call home – if only for a few hours!

Check out other ways to glamp and get your s’mores on with Freschetta and Honey Maid!

What’s your best camping/glamping tip?

Brunch & Bust a Move with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

October 30, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

It’s (almost) the most wonderful time of the year. The holidays are quickly approaching, and I try to make sure I enjoy the joy and fun this time of year brings as well.

Kick off your holiday season with America’s Sweethearts! The Gaylord Texan is hosting a special Dallas Cowboys Dance & Cheer Brunch on Nov. 22, 2015 and De. 13, 2015 in the Yellow Rose Ballroom from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Eight of the fabulous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and R&B Dancers will be on-hand at the brunch to meet their fans, take photos and sign autographs. And your little future cheerleaders (or yourself #nojudgement) will have opportunity to learn some moves from the cheerleaders and dancers themselves. Well then shake your tail feather!

Plus, all attendees will be able to enjoy a lavish family brunch complete with scrambled eggs and bacon, breakfast tacos, smoke cheddar grits, maple grain ham, red eye gravy, brioche French toast, yogurt parfaits and a whole bunch of pastries and desserts. Hello, brunch! Is your mouth watering or is it just me?

So how much does all of this cost? Adults can experience this event for $39.99, kids (4-12) for $19.99 and kids 3 and under get in for FREE! You can buy your tickets at here. And while you’re out there, why not take the opportunity to enjoy all of the Lone Star Christmas festivities!

You can check out the full list of activities here.

Your New Dream Home is in Fredricksburg at Boot Ranch

September 8, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 24 Comments

Fredricksburg is one of favorite places.

History. Wine Country. Cultural Cuisine. Small Town Hospitality.

Close to all the conveniences of the city, but almost like a world away, just veering out to see where the sky meets the hills is one of those magical moments where time seems to stand still and you can just appreciate mother nature and the current moment of today.

It’s one of those places that you can take a deep breath and just appreciate the handiwork that makes every Texan proud to call this home.

Several months ago I was invited to spend my birthday to “take a break” from everything to stop and smell the peaches (Fredricksburg is world famous for peaches and they smell heavenly.)

As I rolled up the drive way in the blue Cadillac leading up to Boot Ranch, I was taken by the idyllic views of the pink billowy clouds and rolling hills, I was already enraptured, and I hadn’t even driven up to the lobby.

The Boot Ranch community is a 2,052-acre private master-planned community designed to ensure timeless appeal and responsible land stewardship. Featuring Audubon Sanctuary certification, the property is designed to peacefully coexist with the beautiful surrounding landscape and gentle wildlife. Naturally, it also affords our Members spectacular Hill Country views, a premier golf course set within the area’s natural ridges, spring-fed lakes populated with native fish and homesites cradled by nature.

From the estate homesites to overlook cabins and Sunday houses, every aspect of Boot Ranch is designed to embrace the natural terrain while adhering to the highest standards of construction, detail, and design.

Boot Ranch Selects Insperity from Boot Ranch on Vimeo

While we unloaded our things into the beautifully furnished family cabins (available for when family members come to visit you when you live in the community), I couldn’t wait to see what else was waiting. With picturesque paved pathways through the 18-hole Hal Sutton designed championship golf course and a 34-acre golf practice park, even this non-golf-paying fan was ready to pick up a club. But if the views weren’t enough to make you plan the color of your drapes already, the 55,000 sq. ft. members-only clubhouse and village complex, and the 4.5-acre pool and premiere spa will (see slideshow.)

After picking up my chin, the next move on my itinerary included a multicourse wine dinner featuring my favorite friends from Messina Hof with a few new friends. After devouring a venison meal that still gets my mouth watering months later by the gifted Boot Ranch Executive Chef Aaron J. Staudenmaier (previously of Dallas’ own Mansion at Turtle Creek, Abacus, Jasper’s, Rathbun’s Blue Plate Kitchen), we were able to watch the sun go down with a movie in the family room and a hands-down AMAZING bacon popcorn I’m still trying to figure out how to make.

While I could have spent days never leaving the property, we were also able to visit all the fun that Fredricksburg was able to deliver with innovative wineries, historical museums my husband can’t wait to come back to, and super shopping at small boutiques/gift shops. And you can’t miss the dining especially with the German heritage that Fredricksburg is known for.

So while one can only wish that staying at Boot Ranch was as easy as making a hotel reservation, the only way you make this dream stay is a “long-term vacation,” by purchasing one of the available properties to build a home at the Boot Ranch or at one of the furnished Sunday houses. Living at Boot Ranch isn’t just your next house it’s a destination for you to call home.

Where’s your dream home?

See Dallas Stay at the Anatole with Staycation Fun

August 10, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 22 Comments

Summer began yesterday, right?

Unfortunately, no longer do I understand the “dog days of summer.” Unless you’re referring to the speed of my dog, Birddie, running after a kitty cat dares to come near our wooden fence.

With everything else that’s been going on, a vacation had not been planned, but was definitely in order. However, with no time to get on a plane or drive in the car with just three days to spend, what was there to do? And where was there to go? Especially something that wasn’t going to be work with two kids….

We’d stay home, but do a weekend downtown to explore all the places that we always drive by like the Reunion Tower Geodeck (a must-do for any trip to Dallas), take the little one to experience the Perot Museum to see science at work, and appreciate our city for all its worth. And without all the traffic!

We stayed nearby at the beautiful Hilton Anatole. With easy access to everything we wanted to see and do without all the stress, just being on property was tons of stuff to do without even leaving. (Doesn’t it look like Central Park? This is the inside green space at the Anatole.) Just walking around hand-in-hand with my kids to talk was a memory I’ll remember for a long time.

A three-day weekend was exactly what we needed – for both me to relax and the kids to enjoy some fun. We headed over to the Geppetto’s Theatre & Workshop to see marionettes come to life for “The Little Mermaid” then off for some serious pool action.

Then off for some serious pool action at the adorable watermelon-clad pool party happening all summer. With a swim-bar (for me) and outdoor grilling including hamburgers and hot dogs we were able to keep cool during the hot summer days in Dallas.

And then at dark, enjoy popcorn during the poolside dive-In movie, Paddington. All the fun that day wore those babies out so mama could enjoy time in the adjoining room to watch a Pay-Per-View movie with a glass of vino in my robe without any distractions (don’t event ask how long it has been since I had seen a new movie and the Anatole had tons available at my fingertips!)

One of my favorite moments of the whole weekend was watching them order breakfast in bed. I admit waking up to a delicious breakfast delivered to my door and someone else cooking it and doing the dishes was h-e-a-v-e-n.

You still have time to enjoy the summer fun at the Hilton Anatole, but you better act fast! Special packages until Labor Day include Mon-Thurs package savings up to $70 per night and Fri – Sun package savings up to $100 per night!

From dive-in movies to poolside grilling and outdoor games, the hotel has taken care of the planning so families can relax and enjoy more time together and do things the whole family can enjoy (REALLY). We even found time for a little “Mommy and Me” moment and indulged in summer-inspired spa specials at the hotel’s full-service V Spa. (Isn’t she happy?)

Honestly, the weekend was exactly what we needed to getaway without all the fuss. And when it was time to go home, valet had the car ready, packed and 20 minutes later we were back at home. That was my kind of vacation, but even better as a staycation.

SUMMER AT THE ANATOLE

The Hilton Anatole’s “Stay & See Dallas” package includes nightly accommodations, breakfast for four, Wi-Fi, parking and in-room movie night complete with popcorn and candy starting at just $144/night.

Dive into an array of entertaining activities each and every day this summer. We’ve taken care of every detail in planning an extravagant and memorable summer stay for you.

Dive in Movies – every Friday, stay cool and catch a movie at the pool
Geppetto’s Theatre & Workshop – debuting in July & named “Best Birthday Party in Dallas!” by Dallas Child magazine
Stay Fit – The Verandah Club offers classes throughout the week or partake in fun outdoor lawn games!
Lawn Games – Croquet, badminton, volleyball, bounce houses and more
Outdoor Grilling – Grilled burgers, hotdogs, chicken and more. Kids 4 & Under eat free all summer long
VSpa – Fantastic summer spa specials await
Plan your trip

Whether you’re visiting Dallas or you call it home our See Dallas & Stay Anatole Package offers everything you’ll need to escape the chaos of your day.

Package Includes:

Self parking
Breakfast for up to 4 people daily
An in-room movie (restrictions apply)
Popcorn, soda and candy
In-room Wi-Fi access

So unwind after a long days work or let the family settle in after a day of adventure. #SeeDallasStayAnatole

For more details on hotel packages, activities,this fun contest and pool memberships, visit www.SummerAtTheAnatole.com.

Be VIP with Hampton by Hilton and Live Nation

July 23, 2015 By Victoria Williams 1 Comment

Music fans and concert lovers rejoice. Hampton by Hilton, Hilton Worldwide and Live Nation are partnering to give you a once in a lifetime VIP experience with the We Go Together Ultimate Summer Tour. Beginning July 2 through September 6, four lucky winners will be selected to receive tickets to see performances by chart-topping acts including Counting Crows, Kelly Clarkson, Brad Paisley and superstar vocal group Rascal Flatts. These winners will also have the opportunity to get up close and person with their favorite artist a special VIP experience.

To enter the contest, simply log onto WeGoTogetherTour.com for a chance to win two tickets to one of four concerts. Winners will be provided with airfare for themselves and a guest, as well as ground transportation from the airport to their hotel, and to and from the concert venue. Winners will also receive a one-night stay at a Hampton by Hilton property near the music venue. For additional opportunities to win prizes, on-site surprises are planned for all Live Nation summer concert series attendees, including the Hampton Prize Wheel, which will feature a variety of rewards, such as Hilton HHonors ™ passports and travel necessities like cameras and headphones, among others.

While you wait to see if you’re the grand prize winner, get the party started early at tonight’s Chicago Earth Wind Fire concert at the Gexa Energy Pavilion.

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Road Trip with QuikTrip

July 19, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 46 Comments

Summers are synonymous with road trips.

Just take a look at your Facebook feed and you’ll see friends and family all packing up their minivans and SUVs to take off down the highway to visit loved ones, to find new adventures or sometimes just seeing where the road takes them. [Just check out our Road Trip Adventures.]

A big part of that road trip experience is where you stop along the way for the important things: you know, bathroom breaks and something to eat!

However, no longer does grabbing a soggy sandwich at the convenience store or bag a chips have to be your only option. Gas stations like Quik Trip have transformed to road destinations for everything you need including always-clean bathrooms, a variety of delicious hot coffees, fresh and hot entrees, and even that missing item you forgot to pack.

Now outfitted with a “hot kitchen,” most QT locations will cook up anything you request on their self-serve kiosks including healthy smoothies and milkshakes, thick crust pizzas and some pretty tasty kolaches. While the new offerings are on my hot list, my kids still love the hot dog rollers where they can make up their own dog paired with their 32 oz. of whatever concoctions they made at the drink station. But at the prices the

And don’t pretend you haven’t been tempted by the specialty items they advertise outside when you’re pumping gas…we have all thought how good would those strawberry cheesecake donut holes would be or a nice cold milkshake?

But the sweetest thing I always love about Quik Trip is the service. No matter what time of day, morning, noon and way into the night, the place is clean, the team members are smiling, quick and helpful to get you on your trip…Guess that’s why they call it QuikTrip, huh?

If you haven’t tried your nearest QuikTrip lately to try out their menu, I highly suggest it – even if you aren’t on a road trip. And if you’re planning a few days to be in the car, know that red QT will be there to take care of you along the way – anytime of the day. But the breakfast pizza alone is a reason to get in the car and go over there and get it right now.

Don’t miss this freebie for buy one get one free frozen lemonade and make sure to enter for a $25 gift card to try QuikTrip for yourself!

Happy Road Trippin’!

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Worth the Stay: Sheraton Fort Worth Renovates Hotel

March 23, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

A few weeks ago DFW was plagued by Icemegedon. If you haven’t heard, here in Dallas we don’t do know how to deal with snow and ice, so if any precipitation falls, especially when it turns to ice, the world stops. Unfortunately tests don’t and the hubs had a biggie (his BAR exam), so we were forced to stay as close as possible to the testing center in Fort Worth. For him, the stay was a necessity, for us, we had a reason for a “getaway” even if we didn’t get to go too far from home (or the hotel), it was a change of scenery. And a heated indoor pool didn’t hurt either.

So off to the Sheraton Fort Worth Hotel and Spa we went. A long time hotel in downtown Fort Worth, I was excited to have a chance to check out its recent renovation and changes it would be making over the next few weeks. With a few days to spare indoors, we would be able to take a look around the hotel and take it for a test drive! (I mentioned the heated pool while it was snowing, right?)

Perfectly located only two VERY short blocks from the Fort Worth Convention Center, the Sheraton Fort Worth will soon be complete with renovations to:

Guest Rooms
Club Level Guest Rooms
Club Lounge
Lobby Bar
Lobby-level Perks breakfast and lunch bistro

The room was the ideal size for a family that had two kiddos that needed space to move around, an oversized couch and a table space for me to make snacks for the kids. For mom I had the work set-up to power through what I needed to take care of my work load. And then there was the uber comfortable couch that we could all fit on comfortably while we watch TV!

Somehow I was able to steal an hour to enjoy a one-hour massage from the Spa. The full-service salon provides everything a gal or guy could want to revive and recharge including nails, hair, facial and my needed solution, a much-needed massage from the spa director that goes down as one of my favorites ever. REALLY.

After feeling like a million bucks at the spa, the family sat down for dinner at the hotel. Met quickly by a very friendly waiter, we were seated. While the service was a little slow (we blamed the snow and probably a understaffed restaurant due to the ice), we had a hot dinner steps from our room. I was glad the menu including innovate entrees the adults enjoyed and the kids’ favorites well made and with lots of flavor. Had I have had a refrigerator, I’m pretty sure I would have made my leftovers a midnight snack.

Of course our favorite part of the stay had to be the heated pool, Warm and toasty, the kids were able to splash and play in the big pool and I was able to relax a little in the Jacuzzi.

Retreating from the cold means a hot spa for mama and warm water fun for the babies at the Sheraton Fort Worth! @sheratonhotels @visitfortworth #icemaggedon #comp #travelblogger

A photo posted by Mama Challenge (@autumnreo) on Feb 24, 2015 at 11:17am PST

What a way to enjoy a nice cold stay in Fort Worth! Next time we’ll try it when it’s sunny outside and see what other fun we can have staying at the Sheraton Fort Worth.

REMEMBER, Now until March 31, enter to win a Fort Worth Weekend Getaway with:

2-night stay at Sheraton Fort Worth Hotel and Spa
2 tickets to the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth plus free entrance to the Kimbell Art Museum
A $100 gift certificate to dine at Cantina Laredo
A $100 gift certificate to Best Store Dirty Laundry Boutique

Sheraton Fort Worth
1701 Commerce Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Visit Website

Looking for fun with the kids while you’re in Fort Worth (and there’s not ice on the ground?) Here’s our family-friendly Fort Worth day trip ideas featured on the Visit Fort Worth blog.

Traveling the World with Trafalgar

February 13, 2015 By Autumn Rose Reo 16 Comments

I’m a girl that dreams of traveling the world.

With it nearing Valentine’s Day I began reminiscing about my vacation to Italy a few years ago.

Fifteen days traveling through the Italian countryside from Rome, Sorrento, Florence, and Venice, I finally experienced the trip I had only dreamed of and it was everything I had wanted it to be minus cooking my own pasta in my own piazza on the Tuscan hillside or purchasing the Chanel necklace I eyed walking through Florence.

But that journey didn’t come without a huge amount of research and a lot of recommendations from friends of where to go and where not to go. (I’m pretty sure I spent more time on planning that trip than I did planning my wedding…) And while I was sublimely happy most the time, there were many times I was very frustrated learning the train system, reading maps and after a long day, just figuring out what I wanted to eat.

Since then I’ve really yearned to travel to more places to see the world, taste new cuisines and appreciate cultures other than my own. However, I haven’t really had the time to do the research and don’t envy the frustration that comes with traveling to a new place to “figure out” how things work. I really need to clone me to just go plan my trip and another one to go check out the destination before the real me gets there.

And let’s not even talk about the anxiety I get when I think about a trip with my kids out of the country!

A tour package makes a lot of sense, but I don’t just want the same trip as everyone else or to board a bus and to only semi-experience a destination. Trafalgar, a worldwide travel planner, has hundreds and hundreds of vacation packages to destinations around the world. All packages are categorized by “trip styles” something for everyone– and a particular favorite of many moms is the Family Experiences—designed to appeal to every generation from children to grandparents.

Trafalgar’s award-winning vacation collection includes 10 unique travel styles—covering every traveler:

Country Explorer: in-depth experiences taking travelers to the heart of a country
Regional Explorer: an in-depth look at two or more countries
Discoveries: faster-paced, multi-country trips popular with first-time travelers
[NEW for 2015] Hidden Journeys: less-visited destinations with groups of 26 or fewer guests
At Leisure: relaxed trips with lengthier stays in each destination, later starts and more free time
Family Experiences: action-packed trips for the whole family to share, from children (aged 5+)
Special Interest: for a look at Italian food, English country gardens and World War II battlefields
CostSaver: budget-friendly Europe trips with more experiences as optional
Cruise, Rail & Combinations: trips featuring alternative transportation along with the luxury coach
City Breaks: independent packages in select European cities

And it’s all hassle-free: All guided vacations also include high-quality hotels, VIP entry to iconic sights, daily breakfasts and many local meals, luxury coach transportation, airport transfers and luggage handling.

You could go on a Castles and Kilts trip where a local specialist will take you to the must-see sights and make sure the children enjoy it with tales of mystery and madness of monarchs and interesting historical characters. They also have a trip style called CostSaver Europe (budget-friendly Europe trips with more experiences that are optional), worldwide At Leisure (relaxed trips with lengthier stays), and Hidden Journeys (tours with smaller groups that get to visit unique off the beaten path destinations). All of the Trafalgar vacations offer unique Insider Experiences like getting to dine with a local family in their home.

Or you could keep the kids at home and run off to Paris. Definitely on the top of my bucket list, Trafalgar is hosting a giveaway for a trip to see the Eiffel Tower in person – as well as all the other specials details that go with a Trafalgar-led vacation.

WIN a trip to #France! Just find the hidden treasure in Paris and it could be yours! Visit our website for more details. Good luck!

A photo posted by Trafalgar Travel (@trafalgartravel) on Feb 2, 2015 at 9:14am PST

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What destination experience is on your bucket list?

The Gals’ First Timers Guide to a Dallas Cowboys Game

October 26, 2014 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Hey Girl! Are you headed out to see your first Dallas Cowboys game? Then you need this: The Gals’ First Timers Guide to a Dallas Cowboys Game.

Thanks to #GoVerizon for inviting me to my first time at Dallas Cowboys game. #GoVerizon

When you step out of my backdoor you can actually see both of the stadiums that house the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys.

Considering how close we live to all the action, you’d think we spend a lot of time there, but unfortunately, until a few weeks ago, I’d never been inside to see a game of America’s #1 Team. To get ready for the big game, I wasn’t sure what to wear, what to bring (or not) and what else I should do to have the best experience. So here’s your breakdown of everything you need from one gal to another to go to your first Dallas Cowboys Game.

What to Wear

Of course, like any great milestone, the first thing a female wants to know is “What do I Wear?” While I did do a little Pinterest research for ideas, the reality of what to wear to the game is by taking a look at what everyone else was wearing once I got there. Honestly, it seems as though there were two specific camps you fell into with your appropriate attire at the Cowboys game:

Sporty Spice

About the women at the game sported their jerseys and cute team apparel proudly. A few of them would add their own spin with lots of Texas flair like rhinestones, ballcaps and boots.

Posh Spice

The other half fell more into this group with Texas flair from head to toe. These gals brought their A game with bling, dresses, skirts and also, like our Sporty Spice, the boots (also with bling and design.)

If you don’t fall into either of these you’ll be fine, but just remember if you wear a skirt and your seats are up high, you might want to wear a cute pair of bloomers for the all the spectators below. 🙂

What to Bring

Handbags

My biggest concern of what to bring to the game was my handbag. I normally carry a pretty large bag, but I didn’t want to deal with it at the game. And that’s good since the stadium doesn’t allow it. The rules are very specific when it comes to the size of your bag and what you can have in it.

NFL approved bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12.” The bags may be hand-carried or have a shoulder strap.
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
Small, one compartment, clutch bag that does not exceed 8.5″ x 5.5″, with or without a handle or strap. This can be carried separately or within a plastic bag.

Mobile Phone (and it matters which provider you have)!

Of course, in addition to your bag, you need to think about what you’re bringing. While you should always have a driver’s license (especially if you plan to drink alcohol at a tailgate party or purchase at the game), the other most important item is your mobile phone. I know I thought my AT&T smartphone wouldn’t have even had been a talking point since it’s AT&T Stadium at all, but that was not the case. From the moment I arrived for tailgating until I left to go home, my reception was a gamble and most the time I was losing. A lot. I wanted to chronicle my experience and without my friend with a Verizon phone (which has excellent service), I wouldn’t have been able to communicate online at all.

Bottomline, if you want to be offline and zone into the game while you’re there and have your own arrangements for transportion, you’re ok. But if you want to share that touchdown, take a selfie with the celebrity you might bump into milling around the stadium or meet up with that friend you know is also at the game at a mutual location, it’s probably not going to happen unless you have good reception like I know you’ll get from Verizon and not from AT&T.

Strollers

If you are bringing a kiddo until 2 to the game, you’ll probably want to bring a stroller. Remember, that stadium is HUGE and unless you are hanging with Jerry himself, you’ll be walking whereever your seat is and you’ll want a stroller. Strollers are permitted and ideally an umbrella one will do the job so you can put it under your seat. If not, you can check the stroller at Guest Services Center located on the concourse behind Sections 219, 244, 420 and 451.

How to Get There

It costs a lot of money to park at the stadium. I mean like $100 or so and you might still be walking to get there. And there’s still the time it takes to find a spot and after the game, get out in a reasonable time. However, if you’re smart, there’s several other options that don’t cost you money, time or too much effort!

Uber

If you don’t know what I’m talking about, you need to get on the ball. However, but in a nutshell, it’s a cab service manned by other regular folks like you and I. Calling for a car has never been so easy with the Uber app which also is the way you pay. And anyone at mamachallenge.com can get $2o off their first Uber ride by using code “MamaChallenge20”. Just download the app and get going on your own car service.

Ride the Trolley

In Arlington around the ballpark, there are many restaurants and retailers that are happy for you to come and park – as long as you come and spend a little time (and money) before the game. For normally $20-30 spent, you can park your car and take the convenient red trolley to drop you off at the stadium. For instance, Cici’s Pizza will let you park for $100 and you get a few pizzas to boot.

Drive & Park

If you opt to just drive your car right on up to Jerry’s World, just make sure to give yourself some time, patience and bring comfortable shoes because it might take a while to find a spot. However, if you’re going early to tailgate you probably can scout out a good place. Just remember, if you are hosting the tailgate and have a tent you plan to put up close to the grounds, you need to make sure you got a permit for that.

You’re at the Game, Now What?

You Don’t Understand Football

Hey, me neither! But the game is a lot of fun without even watching the game too seriously. Either ask someone around you to give you a little lesson (unless they are too into it and now is not the time.) Or again, use that phone to look it up. However, I can tell you the words “Touchdown” and “Field Goal” are good words when we are referring to the Cowboys. And if you hear “fumble” or a lot of people giving a piece of their mind at the ref, it’s not going so well.

Food

Food is the second most important F-word at a Cowboys game. And there’s a lot of it. Whether you are aiming for beer and nachos to a nicer, upscale meal made from a well-trained chef, they make it available for you. I really eyed the taqueria fare, however, the cinnamon nuts are going to try to lure you with their aroma. If you are on a diet or watching your weight, this isn’t really your favorite eating destination, but you do have options.

Just in Case

There’s a lot of things you might not want to ask or think will happen, but sometimes they do, which is why there are several services in place to help while you’re onsite.

Family Restrooms

You’ll find family restrooms throughout the stadium on all concourses and on each Club and Suite level. Also there are baby changing stations in baby girl or boy needs a new diaper.

Text program
Got a question and can’t find anyone to ask? Guest may call for assistance during each event by sending a text message to 69050 from your cell phone. Type the word STAR followed by a space and the issues (question, comment, concern, etc.) and location and someone will get back to you to help.

First Aid Kit

No one wants to get hurt, but it can happen with all those stairs or those cute heels you chose to wear instead of comfortable shoes like I suggested. If you need a bandaid or other medical assistance, you can find five first aid locations including Event Level – Northeast Tunnel, Main Concourse – Behind Sections 219 and 244 and Upper Concourse – Behind Sections 420 and 451. However, contact a member of the event staff and they can quickly guide you to neccesary assistance.

Lost and Found

If you’re like me, you are the worst at laying down something and then forgetting to pick it back up especially coats, hats or that new shirt you might have bought in the gift shop. If that’s you too and now you can’t find it head to Guest Services. As long as your item is not your mobile phone, then call (817) 892-4161 for information or notify them via lostandfound@dallascowboys.net for your item.

Now if you lose the kiddo or your friend you came with, thankfully they have that, too. Contact a member of the staff and they can help you reconnect.

Safe-in-the-Seat Program

Guests can receive a free ID bracelet featuring a space to write in their seat location. The Safe in the Seat Program aids in reuniting lost children and guests with their parties. The bracelets are available at all Guest Services Centers located on the concourse behind Sections 219, 244, 420 and 451. Safe in the Seat bracelets are not valid in place of a ticket.

And of course, if all else fails, there is an app for that! Download the AT&T Stadium app in advance or if you are doing it onsite, you’ll need good service like with Verizon Wireless.

Got any tips for football game success for the gals?

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