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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Everyone Needs Mama’s Better Day Kit {Giveaway}

Yum

September 16, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 151 Comments

Some days suck. So be armed and ready with this Better Day Kit to cope until #BetterThings. 

Some days suck.

Like put-a-Dyson-to-shame suck. 


They suck so hard and even when you continue to put on the smiling face, attempt to think of a better day in your life, and try to handle the situation like an adult (whatever that’s supposed mean), there are some days you just lose your s@#!. 

For those days, you need to be armed and ready to cope, so you can deal with the s@#!storm you’ve been presented and get on to another day that has got to be better than than the one that you’ve presently gotten yourself stuck in. 

I mean I love my kids. I love my husband. I love my family. I love my job, but dang, there are days that push me to the edge. 

(It has to get better, right?) 

That’s what she said. 

Better Day Kit

Meet Sam Fox. She’s a mom, dad, referee, cop, and a woman.  “She’s  just trying to earn a living, navigate her daughters’ lives, have fun with a friend or two and also — just maybe — squeeze in some private time once in a while.” She’s looking for a better day, too.

Better Things is a new comedy series on FX co-created by Pamela Adlon and Louis C.K., starring Adlon as “Sam Fox,” a single, working actor with no filter trying to raise her three daughters – “Max” (Mikey Madison), “Frankie” (Hannah Alligood) and “Duke” (Olivia Edward) and her mom– in Los Angeles. 

Feel like this show could take out Sam Fox and insert you in it? Yep, me, too. 

So instead of losing it, take a few tips inspired by Better Things to keep yourself prepared to take on the day with the Better Day Kit. 

Better-Things

Here’s what you need for your Better Day Kit:

Sunglasses

Duh? Dark circles? Red eyes? Just don’t want to actually catch anyone’s eye so you don’t have to engage in a conversation? Sunglasses are your friend. And if you wear classy ones like Ray Bans, you at least look like you’re sophisticated, even when you’re a hot, hot, hot mess. 

Better-Things-Glasses

Chipolo Bluetooth Finder 

Have you been late to work or late to drop off your kids because you were looking for yours keys? How many times have you walked all over your house retracing your steps and found your phone in your back pocket. Why are we spending so much time finding crap when all you have to do is tag it with your Chipolo and you’ll always be able to find it. And why stop at your keys and your phone…the whole family should  tag their crap so you don’t have to spend time looking for it either. 

Emergency Kit

If you’ve busted a seam or a button in the middle of your shirt, gotten a blister, or lost an earring back, you know the value of a safety pin, bandage and an eraser. Except this time you don’t have to go hunting and hoping for a little saving grace. This little emergency bag of goodies with bobby pins, safety pins, blister pad, earring backs, etc. will keep you in business when things happen. This way at least you don’t end up flashing the boss or start limping down the hall because of those new shoes you haven’t ever broken in. 

Tranquility Essential Oil 

Tranquility is like a made up word isn’t it? No one who has ever had a kiddo, they know that tranquility is like the unicorn that we never catch up with. However, when it’s necessary to take a time out and stop to breathe, snap off the top, and inhale. Just a little sniff of this and you’ll be riding the train to tranquility.

Better-Things-Kit-2

Lip Balm 

When you look like you fell off the ugly tree and hit every branch, somehow when you put on lip balm, you upgrade yourself times 10. Not really, but it makes you feel better. And there’s nothing worst than crusty lips. Lip balm for the win.

Mints 

Did you forget to brush your teeth after gulping down your coffee heading out the door for carpool main? Cute guy at work? Need to impress a client? Have to see that mom that makes you feel like a cockroach? Put in a mint – and let them have it. You’re armed with the power of fresh breath (especially if you’re actually covering up the cocktail you drank at lunch before going back to work.) 

Baggu Leather Clutch 

A girl has to have a bag to put all her tools in – and this one is all-purpose.  And when you go a little classy, then it automatically detracts from the rest of your look that you have taste despite today’s attempt. I call that a win. And this bag can go from day to night to business to personal in no time flat. I’m excited when I change from yoga pants to slacks, so this one gives you the flexibility to be cool when you really aren’t. 

Better-Things-Bag

Pillow

A pillow. I wish I could say you need this to sleep, but it’s really for you to scream in. Whether you leave it in your desk, your car, your bedroom or even carry it in your purse so it’s with you where ever you go, you need this handy right-sized pillow. And if you can squeeze in a few minutes of shuteye, then count yourself lucky that you have a pillow to make use of. (And this way you don’t slobber on anyone either.) 

* If you need instructions exactly, how to use this pillow, let Sam show you exactly how. She does it a lot. 

 

Better-Day-Kit

Everyone needs this kit to help them keep it together. And we’re helping one lucky woman win one by commenting on this question:  

What’s your most memorable “there’s got to be Better Things” moment?”  

A winner will be chosen October 15, 2016 and contacted by email so make sure to follow mamachallenge on Facebook when we announce our winner!

And make sure to watch Better Things Thursdays on FX! This way you know there’s someone just like trying to find those #BetterThings in life. 

 

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Autumn Rose Reo

About Autumn Rose Reo

Texas blogger, TV contributor, PR pro, and mother of two (including a son with a Congenital Heart Defect) , Autumn Rose Reo is always on the search for REAL SOLUTIONS for REAL PARENTS that REALLY WORK. From parenthood, things to do, reviews, style, recipes and more, she’s always cookin’ up something fun, resourceful and good to know! She’s frequently featured on TV sharing her solutions and in her spare time, she’s helping others promote their business with her own PR shop, The Reo Agency See what she’s burning, party she is planning, or what challenge she is taking on today.

Comments

  1. AvatarSteph w says

    September 16, 2016 at 9:32 pm

    We were in Padre with our 5 and 3 yr olds. 5yr old decided he didn’t like sand so that was a constant issue. Then my 3yr old was in his swim diaper and decided to go in the water and poop in his swimmer. We forgot wipes and new swimmer in condo. My husband grabs my son mid-poop and starts digging a hole with the sand shovel so my son could poop in it!!!???? I looked at him like he was nuts and started walking my son thru the burning sands of HELL back to condo. Pulled off swimmer in tub and he was covered in poop :(. By the time we were done we were so tired we decided to stay inside and just watched our family have fun from the balcony. Later that night we roasted marshmallows and my 3yr old grabbed the metal stick and blistered his hand. We ran him to ocean water and then I took him upstairs to ice it. After he calmed down we ate ice cream while watching family from balcony. I def prayed for #BetterThings after that disaster!

    Reply
    • Autumn Rose ReoAutumn Rose Reo says

      October 27, 2016 at 7:54 pm

      I hate to say it, but that definitely was a shitty day, right? #BetterThings I hope have happened since that!

      Reply
  2. AvatarKim says

    September 17, 2016 at 9:33 am

    The time when your kid poops “bad” in the toilet and wants you to wipe him…and he’s almost 7 yrs old. There’s got to be a better way!!!

    Reply
    • Autumn Rose ReoAutumn Rose Reo says

      October 27, 2016 at 7:55 pm

      Totally has happened to me. Like really. Is it just a man thing? 🙂

      Reply
  3. AvatarLiza @ Views From the 'Ville says

    September 17, 2016 at 4:14 pm

    The pediatrician had suggested we let our daughter start on baby cereal. Apparently, my daughter was not quite ready, as her stomach vehemently protested in the middle of a diaper change. I was catching things with my bare hands that no one told me a body that tiny could produce.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 3:57 pm

      Yes! Those little bodies can make some splendid messes! haha Poor baby (daughter).

      Reply
  4. AvatarKerri S says

    September 19, 2016 at 5:31 pm

    When your 6yr old SWEARS he cant sleep alone, and you KNOW if you dont let him, he will only come in MORE and disturb your sleep MORE and youve tried oils, nightlights, sound machines, EVERYTHING..sigh..just know he wont be in middle school sleeping with me, hopefully 😉

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 3:59 pm

      Oh no! Yes, mama needs her sleep! I hope he at least gives you half of the bed!

      Reply
  5. Avatardeanna says

    September 20, 2016 at 12:45 pm

    When you wear heels and count it as a trip to the gym because you have parent/teacher night, sports team practice drop off, and a neighbor who is sick and needs a meal taken to their home.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:00 pm

      That counts in my book! Those calories burn (and hurt) more in heels!

      Reply
  6. AvatarKristie says

    September 20, 2016 at 2:27 pm

    My most memorable moment was when our dryer broke, then our water heater and the our garbage disposal all in about two weeks! Sigh! It’s always something! Crazy! kristiedonelson(at)gmail(dot)com Thank you.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:02 pm

      Yes, I feel ya! Our garage door and both cars decided to need a lot of work done all at once. It should be said, I did not run the cars into the garage door! lol

      Reply
  7. AvatarTerry Stevens says

    September 20, 2016 at 6:53 pm

    When I moved into my condo 6 weeks ago and took a shower for the first time and water came bubbling up through the toilet to flood my downstairs. There were tree roots growing in the pipes outside, it was a Sunday and the 9th plumber I called was able to come out. There has got to be better moments than this when just moving into a new place. The moments even got better when my brand new washer flooded my upstairs because the installers did not put the drain hose in properly.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:03 pm

      Wow! That sounds like a hard week! I’m sorry, friend.

      Reply
  8. AvatarLauren says

    September 21, 2016 at 8:28 am

    My Better Things moment was when I started the coffee machine without a cup.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:04 pm

      haha most definitely. Need. Coffee. Stat.

      Reply
  9. AvatarBecky VanGinkel says

    September 21, 2016 at 9:45 am

    We took our 3 kids to the New Zoo in Green Bay Wisconsin when our youngest was about 1.5 years old. I was holding her, looking at the Giraffe Exhibit, and she vomited all down the front of my shirt and jeans. And it wasn’t baby puke, it was spaghetti puke, and a bit even got in my hair. So we head back to the car to get some wet wipes and change my clothes, and I realize there is nothing in my overnight bag except for a white tank top, and by this time the puke had saturated my bra as well. So, my husband says we’ll just run to a Walmart and he’ll go in to buy me a new outfit and then we could head to the hotel so I could clean up, then we would head back to the zoo. All this time, our two older kids are complaining about the smell of puke, and how hot it is.. being typical kids. So I strip the baby, get her in her seat and we go to leave, and the car won’t start! My husband apparently left the hatch in our SUV open or something because the battery was dead. And this was only our second week of having our brand new SUV, so apparently something was going on with our car too! So then, we had to sit while my husband ran in to ask if someone could give us a jump.. thankfully some 17 year old kid came out and pulled his car up so my husband could hook up the jumper cables. At this point, the kid looks at me and wrinkles his nose, i guess either noticing the smell or the puke in my hair, or the kids bickering…. I was ready to break down, and I knew #BetterThings had to be on the horizon!

    babydjs_mom@yahoo.com

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:07 pm

      Yes, it’s only up from there… FOR SURE!

      Reply
  10. Avatarnatasha lamoreux says

    September 21, 2016 at 2:21 pm

    My most memerable moments are my teenage daughter getting very emotional for no reason while my 3 year old is throwing a tantrum.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:09 pm

      The days ahead of me with a teenage daughter… some times it makes me shutter… haha

      Reply
  11. AvatarElena says

    September 21, 2016 at 2:59 pm

    one of these moments happened when my child was on the floor at Target screaming and crying because he didn;t want to go shopping.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:12 pm

      Yes, all off this. Yes.

      Reply
  12. AvatarMichelle J. says

    September 21, 2016 at 3:25 pm

    My daughter broke the iPad, decorated a picture with all postage stamps, and then wouldn’t nap!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:14 pm

      Yes, and without naps how are we supposed to make it through the next few hours of destruction before bed time war begins?!

      Reply
  13. AvatarGina Sandoval says

    September 21, 2016 at 5:28 pm

    Everyday with kids creates these moments!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:15 pm

      …and then they recharge their batteries at night! lol

      Reply
  14. AvatarAlly says

    September 21, 2016 at 7:29 pm

    Spending two hours getting the other car back from the shop (so you can stop sharing!) because the mechanic locked the keys in the car and you didn’t think to bring your spare…

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:17 pm

      Nope. I hope they gave you a discount – or at least some of their free coffee (yuck)! Sorry, friend!

      Reply
  15. AvatarHeidi Bolinger says

    September 21, 2016 at 8:54 pm

    I work from home. Woke up one morning, and there is no power or internet. Had to wait and go to the library to login and work.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 4:20 pm

      Yes, I work from home a lot, too… or rather the coffee shop… when mine goes out!

      Reply
  16. AvatarMeaghan says

    September 21, 2016 at 9:22 pm

    My daughter is 14 months old and has to be the worst sleeper in the world. I am so sleep deprived, that on more than one occasion I have been getting my coffee ready to go to work and grabbed the purple sugar free drink mix out of the fridge instead of milk. By the time my mistake comes to light, I’m already on the way to daycare and end up just drinking my sugar free grape light roast. Still better than the times I’ve forgotten the coffee on the roof of the car and backed out of the driveway!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:04 pm

      Any coffee is better than no coffee… Right?!

      Reply
  17. AvatarChristine H says

    September 21, 2016 at 10:46 pm

    When you go to Wal-Mart mid naptime…with a balloon from the dentist.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:05 pm

      I’m assuming something popped and some one LOST IT. haha

      Reply
  18. AvatarTrisha Burgess says

    September 21, 2016 at 11:12 pm

    When my son had repeat ear infections and the doctor said he had to have so many before they would do anything about it and now he has grown to being used to staying up all night! Momma is tired and there has to be a better way!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:07 pm

      Poor things. I hope he gets better and you get your SLEEP.

      Reply
  19. AvatarJill Rivera says

    September 22, 2016 at 10:52 am

    For a hard day when at the stress of the day drives you almost over the edge. A glass of wine and a hot bath and soak away the cover.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:08 pm

      Wine. Check. Bath. Check!

      Reply
  20. AvatarShannon says

    September 22, 2016 at 2:13 pm

    I was so tired because my young kids weren’t sleeping at night, our pipe leading into our house burst one late afternoon, and then that night during a huge thunderstorm I had had enough and went up to my bedroom to find water pouring down my walls from a leak in the roof. Gotta be a better way!! lol

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:09 pm

      Goodness! I can not imagine the clean up! I hope all dried out nicely.

      Reply
  21. AvatarCorey Olomon says

    September 22, 2016 at 3:16 pm

    When my son had a diaper rash and he wanted me to kiss it to make it feel better and he wouldn’t count air kisses! 🙂

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:09 pm

      That’s AWESOME! LOL!

      Reply
  22. Avatarsusan smoaks says

    September 22, 2016 at 5:06 pm

    My most memorable there’s got to be better things moment is the day i had a flat tire on the way to work. By the time I got there i was very late. Then I found out that they laid me off with a big group of people because the company had been bought out and was being moved to another state.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:10 pm

      Wow. That’s a bad morning… Only up from there!

      Reply
  23. AvatarHolly S. says

    September 22, 2016 at 7:05 pm

    Maybe the time I FINALLY got my daughter down for a nap in her crib. She was about 10 months old and still hadn’t slept through the night. So I was downstairs getting everything done that I hadn’t been able to before when I noticed it was time for her to get up, but she was so quiet. Thinking she was sleeping a little late, I let her be. I went upstairs about 15 minutes after that to find my daughter, the crib, bedding, toys, walls, and anything within reaching distance of her crib covered in poop. It was in her hair, and when I came closer, saw that it was in her mouth too. I could not even believe what was happening. Welcome to parenthood!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:12 pm

      Yes, you hear stories of the poop… but then when it happens to you… YOU HAD NO IDEA!

      Reply
  24. Avatarbrandi S. says

    September 23, 2016 at 10:19 am

    When the homework takes over 3 hours every night and we still have sports, dinner and a PTO meeting to get to I can’t help but think “There’s got to be better days” But then we all get to bed only to be woken up by a little one who had another accident and needs a shower. 2 hours after he’s all snuggled in beside me the alarms going off and I need caffeine….every. single. weekday.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:13 pm

      Lord, Brandi… I got tired just reading that!

      Reply
  25. Avatarwendy browne says

    September 23, 2016 at 11:04 am

    Mine has to be when I announced my pregnancy to my middle child, then 17, who screamed and cried how I was ruining her life. *sigh* Things did get better. Eventually.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:13 pm

      I love this story so much! haha

      Reply
  26. AvatarJammie says

    September 23, 2016 at 3:50 pm

    When you have so many things to do but you have no idea where to start, there has got to be a better way to accomplish all tasks.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:14 pm

      Yes, when every room is a disaster. Where do I begin????????

      Reply
  27. AvatarTabathia B says

    September 23, 2016 at 4:50 pm

    Probably asking my middle teenage daughter, why do you have three zero’s in adobe visual design for homework and not getting an answer and when I mentioned emailing teacher – she seemed to be confused as to why I would contact the teacher (Wow!)

    tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:19 pm

      Ugh, teenagers and homework! Those days are ahead of me! eek!

      Reply
  28. AvatarLeigh Anne Borders says

    September 23, 2016 at 7:39 pm

    I would have to say “There has got to be better days” when my child discovered his poppy diaper at 4am in the morning! When my alarm does not go off until 6 am, and I am awakened to a baby and a dirty mess to clean up! I seriously thought there has got to be better days ahead!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:20 pm

      Yes, how do they manage to get to it and in it so easily?! lol!

      Reply
  29. Avatarwen budro says

    September 23, 2016 at 9:13 pm

    My “there’s got to be better things” moment was when I was babysitting 6 cats in a small trailer. One night, a few of the cats decided to vomit everywhere. I cleaned it all up and went to bed. I woke up- and while walking back from the bathroom- one of my bare feet stepped into a lake of new cat vomit on the kitchen floor. I knew then that there had to be better things than that.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:21 pm

      Yes, and it’s especially hard when they aren’t your fur-babies!

      Reply
  30. Avatarallyson tice says

    September 23, 2016 at 10:46 pm

    my son decided to open the fluff while i was in the shower and rubbed it all over our couch! after that fiasco i figured there has to be better things! lol

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:21 pm

      Fluff… as in sticky marshmallow fluff?! OMG.

      Reply
  31. AvatarEdye says

    September 24, 2016 at 11:03 am

    That time when you forget your wallet at home. There’s gotta be a better way!!!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:22 pm

      Gosh! I hope you hadn’t already eaten! lol!

      Reply
  32. Avatarjenna tomaszewski says

    September 25, 2016 at 11:13 am

    When you spent 3 years finding a job after countless interviews and millions of applications

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:23 pm

      Well, I hope it was your dream job after all that time!

      Reply
  33. AvatarCandace Galan says

    September 25, 2016 at 3:55 pm

    Just a couple of months ago I was at the doctor’s office for my oldest son. I had his 2 younger brothers with me and the youngest can be a real handful at times. And this day he was! He wouldn’t stop playing around so I could talk to the doctor so I poured our a cup of water he had and put it in the trash. That was a mistake, he would not stop screaming at the top of his lungs. I was trying to check out and wait for papers to be printed, the nurse asked if there’s anything else I needed and I said please just give me the papers and she handed them to me real fast. I practically had to drag him out of there while he was still screaming.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:25 pm

      Yes, leaving a football game. I decided to throw the freebie toy, that my son was throwing a fit about, away… Big Mistake. HUGE.

      Reply
  34. Avatarpatricia says

    September 26, 2016 at 12:05 pm

    when your kids are 6 and 8 and they STILL find their way into your bed at 4am in the morning EVERY day. which means getting kicked in the head, stomach, and back. #betterthingsinlife

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:26 pm

      Everyday?! You’re a better woman than me! lol!

      Reply
  35. AvatarMeghan says

    September 26, 2016 at 2:29 pm

    Probably having the worst commute and spending so much time in traffic.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:28 pm

      Sorry, friend. Bad commutes… are… the… WORST.

      Reply
  36. AvatarMary West says

    September 27, 2016 at 11:13 am

    When the baby gets cries all the way home, no matter where you go or how long your gone….crying all the way home every single time.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:30 pm

      Yes, I had that keep happening with my daughter and it was the seat pressing into her back and hurting her. Hopefully, you can find some drive-time peace soon!

      Reply
  37. AvatarAshley B. says

    September 28, 2016 at 3:20 pm

    When your 4 year old says he loves you because you’re funny and then he elaborates that it’s because your face is so “funny looking”..

    Lol, kids!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:31 pm

      LOL! Thanks kid… I just love the fact that I taught you how to talk!

      Reply
  38. AvatarBarbara Adams says

    September 28, 2016 at 5:29 pm

    After plotting and planning for months we were departing on our trip to Disney via Amtrak with 4 tweens. I thought it would be a stress-free form of travel, and both my father and husband had worked on the railroad, so what could go wrong? Managed a week long stay with my MIL (how’s a saint) and absolutely exhausted ,packed all the kids and souvenirs and boarded the train home. About 3/4 of the way home, we discovered we would be too late to make our transfer. We talked with the conductor who assured us there would be no issue. Of course, we missed our connection. In my mind’s eye I have the visual of me staying with all the family’s baggage mounded about, as the pin falls out of my eyeglasses and,, I catch my husband out of the good eye, yelling red-faced at some random employee…I knew there had to be#better things.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:34 pm

      Yes, and after you are all tired and pissed at the end of the vacation… BETTER THINGS for sure!

      Reply
  39. AvatarAmanda says

    September 28, 2016 at 8:36 pm

    Every single time I clean I spill something. Instant demoralizer.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:35 pm

      Or someone else does…. Can I CATCH A BREAK?!

      Reply
  40. AvatarBreanna Pollard says

    September 29, 2016 at 1:25 pm

    MY NIECE DECIDING TO BREAK EGGS, THINKING THEY WOULD BOUNCE BACK UP.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:35 pm

      I’m sorry but, tee hee. That made me giggle!

      Reply
  41. AvatarMichelle C says

    September 29, 2016 at 7:55 pm

    When I was in the hospital giving birth to our third child, our water heater broke. Unfortunately, it is located on the second story and leaked all over the upstairs floor and the downstairs ceiling while no one was home. It was terrible coming home to that mess and trying to explain it to all the visitors who wanted to meet the new baby!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:36 pm

      Yes! Bad timing for sure!

      Reply
  42. AvatarSenna K says

    September 29, 2016 at 11:42 pm

    My ” Better Things” moment was definitely being the family’s go-to person for cockroach killing! That aspect has definitely been a struggle.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:38 pm

      Yes, how did I become the bug killer?! I don’t want them on me any more than anyone else?!

      Reply
  43. AvatarSusan McNeill says

    September 30, 2016 at 5:49 am

    Vacation! We make the grueling, 8 hour drive to Cape Cod. And, now we are just 1/2 hour from our destination. I have 3 cranky kids, 2 cranky parents, and 1 cranky dog just waiting to arrive, when I suddenly see a horse in the median strip!

    As we get closer, we realize that it’s not a horse… it’s a COW! And, this rogue cow decides that our mini van is the enemy and decides to charge at us. Luckily, we were able to avoid it (even charging cows are slow) and alert the police.

    But, I as I turned to my husband and innocently asked, “If our vacation starts like this, how will it end???” I never could have guessed the answer: Emergency Appendectomy!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:40 pm

      OMG! That story ended way worse than I thought! I hope all went well!

      Reply
  44. AvatarDawn M says

    October 1, 2016 at 12:10 pm

    One time that comes to mind was a Christmas when everyone of our 6 kids were sick. It was bad. They had bodily fluids coming out of every opening. We had to postpone Christmas.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:42 pm

      Wow, that does sound bad! Better things for SURE.

      Reply
  45. AvatarCarmen Rudnick says

    October 1, 2016 at 9:07 pm

    Every time I go shopping, or try to clean up, or anything really.. if my son opposes I get nothing but “no”. There’s gotta be a better way.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:43 pm

      Why don’t they let us shop??? It’s so amazing… “WHY, can’t you just let mommy SHOP?!” lol!

      Reply
  46. AvatarDavid Heath says

    October 2, 2016 at 8:20 am

    I wanted to go ice fishing when I was a kid, my dad said no. He came back five minutes later, seemed like forever, and said to get ready… an awesome day

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:44 pm

      That sounds awesome!

      Reply
  47. Avatarkelly mcgrew says

    October 2, 2016 at 1:46 pm

    when your baby boy pees in your face for the first time as you are changing him (and colors the walls with it in the process)!!

    just take a deep breath pray for #BetterThings

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:45 pm

      Yes, mine grabbed my hair at the same time… so I had no way to escape! LOL! Yuck!

      Reply
  48. AvatarPam Halligan says

    October 2, 2016 at 5:07 pm

    My most memorable there must be better things moment was when I was picking hot dogs and pickles out of my niece’s hair after her brother vomited on her in the middle of the night. They had been sharing a bed and he didn’t make it to the bathroom.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:46 pm

      Yes, puke in the middle of the night… NEVER ends well.

      Reply
  49. AvatarStephanie Phelps says

    October 3, 2016 at 5:25 pm

    When my granddaughter chews up her food and then takes it out and gives it a sling (she is 10 months old)

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:47 pm

      Haha! Hopefully she will grow out of that!

      Reply
  50. AvatarJenny S says

    October 4, 2016 at 5:23 pm

    The first time my husband went on a business trip and I was home alone with my elementary school aged stepdaughters. It was about 5am and the youngest came in and told me she’d thrown up in her bed. She got sick again and the toilet clogged. This had to happen on a Monday.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:49 pm

      Monday. Middle of the night. Puke. Yup, Better things for sure!

      Reply
  51. AvatarKelly D says

    October 4, 2016 at 6:14 pm

    My moment was when I got sick on our family vacation. I was not comfortable in the hotel at all.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:51 pm

      Vacation sick is the worst! Especially as a Mama!

      Reply
  52. AvatarKimberly Matlack says

    October 5, 2016 at 1:35 am

    My “there’s got to be better things” was when I came home from my mother and father’s house and the refrigerator, the toilet, was leaking and I had water in my basement. I wanted to turn around and go somewhere.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:52 pm

      Right, when you wish you could just call some one to haul your stuff to a whole new house! lol!

      Reply
  53. AvatarAngela Sims says

    October 5, 2016 at 2:59 am

    My moments are when my son REFUSES to go to sleep without me laying with him! I need some “ME” time, ahhhh! LOL

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:53 pm

      The bedtime struggle is REAL.

      Reply
  54. AvatarAngela Saver says

    October 5, 2016 at 6:01 pm

    My most memorable “there’s got to be Better Things” moment was when I had two sick kids, on the way to the doctor, throwing up in the car, while I was driving! Of course, things did get better!

    Andysavi.Mom@gmail.com

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:54 pm

      Glad it got better! And at some point the stink in the car went away… I’m sure! haha

      Reply
  55. AvatarEllen Casper says

    October 6, 2016 at 5:57 pm

    My most memorable “there’s got to be Better Things” moment is when you pick your kids up from soccer practice with your dog and he proceeds to throw up in the car on the way home.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:55 pm

      Goodness! Dog puke in the car! If it’s not the kids -it’s the dog! haha

      Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:56 pm

      Dog puke in the car! If it’s not the kids -it’s the dog! haha

      Reply
  56. Avatarmeredith says

    October 7, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    Ive had quite a few moments, but i think one that has recently hit me was when my child put soap from the bathroom everywhere – there was such a mess to clean up – but she was cute when she tried to help cleanup

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:57 pm

      Hey, at least she tried to help with the clean up! Girls, just want to help out. They want to help make the mess… and then help clean it up!

      Reply
  57. AvatarWehaf says

    October 8, 2016 at 2:40 pm

    For me, the worst days are when I have migraines. I can handle almost anything thrown at me if I’m feeling well, but when I have a migraine I definitely hope for better days!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:58 pm

      Sorry to hear about that. Migraines are NO JOKE.

      Reply
  58. AvatarJillian Too says

    October 8, 2016 at 7:15 pm

    We came back from a trip to the beach needing to take baths/showers and do a pile of laundry only to find that our hot water heater chose that day to quit. It was not a fun time but luckily everything is back in working order.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 5:59 pm

      Yes, that’s a bad moment when everybody is tired and dirty! Great to hear hot showers are possible again!

      Reply
  59. AvatarCrystal Gregg says

    October 9, 2016 at 7:48 pm

    How about when you go a month without finding out your son’s father got fired and you now get zero child support for who knows how long.. Electric, storage, phone and sewer bills are all already 2 months past due…

    Better Things??!!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:00 pm

      Sorry to hear that, friend. I hope all is looking better now.

      Reply
  60. AvatarE. Diane Macauley says

    October 10, 2016 at 2:19 am

    Oh, that day when my little girl had an explosive BM and proceeded to take her diaper off and need clean-up before I could even make coffee. Then, after the cleaning was done and after pouring the water into and starting the coffee maker, there was a knock at the door, so I set the carafe on the counter to answer, proceeded to talk to the neighbor for a few minutes, and that was just long enough for the entire tank of water to have dripped into the filter, overflowing with grounds and hot water all over the counter and floor.
    Neighbor laughing, two year old demanding attention because she is two and can, kitchen a hot mess, and I still had yet to have a cup of coffee. …. and that was just the beginning…. I was definitely dreaming of better things that morning!

    Reply
    • AvatarE. Diane Macauley says

      October 10, 2016 at 2:27 am

      oh yeah, and that was the day I discovered that our dryer had broken. It no longer shut-off by itself and the heating element also quit. so I went in to discover a fully wet load of clothing that had been thoroughly bounced around all night.

      Reply
      • AvatarAutumn Reo says

        October 31, 2016 at 6:01 pm

        Wow! Yes, surely, BETTER THINGS -needed! lol!

        Reply
  61. AvatarMaggie Smith says

    October 10, 2016 at 1:11 pm

    My youngest gets car sick everytime we go on a roadtrip. The first time it happened, the poor kid puked in my husband’s new car 8 times in 2 hours!!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:02 pm

      Ahh poor baby (kid and all involved). Sorry to hear you had a mess in the new car!

      Reply
  62. AvatarKathy Hanley says

    October 12, 2016 at 1:22 pm

    In between everything that life throws at you I was trying to sell a house that my mom inherited from her sister. I got a call from the realtor that there was a leak in the house and water was dripping. Dripping you say? By the time I got to the house which was an hour away there was two feet of water in the basement. The furnace conked out and a radiator on the 2nd floor cracked and water was pouring out and was coming out of every nook and cranny on every floor.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:06 pm

      I hope all ended well with the sale! EEK! Water leaks are awful!

      Reply
  63. AvatarKelley Roach says

    October 12, 2016 at 10:15 pm

    when i got the flu

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:07 pm

      Yes, I can handle this hard Mama job… but when I get sick… those are the really hard days.

      Reply
  64. AvatarKatrina Angele says

    October 13, 2016 at 3:00 am

    When everyone in the house is sick including you and you are still designated puke cleaner upper.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:08 pm

      Katrina! Yes! Welcome to being a Mama! haha Thanks everyone… haha

      Reply
  65. AvatarTina W says

    October 13, 2016 at 3:02 am

    My elderly father had a leg amputated last year and lived with us for 16 months while recuperating.
    Two words I never want to hear again in my life: beside commode.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:10 pm

      Sorry to hear that…. You are a good daughter.

      Reply
  66. AvatarTallulahJane says

    October 13, 2016 at 9:15 am

    My moment was….when I found out my husband had cheated after 19 years of marriage and done some other illegal activities. It was the end of the marriage but 8 years later, I realize everything worked out for the best..

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:11 pm

      Sorry, you had to go through that. Glad that better things did come.

      Reply
  67. AvatarLauryn R says

    October 13, 2016 at 4:47 pm

    When my two year old daughter is potty training faster than her almost 4 year old brother! There’s got to be a better way!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:13 pm

      Boys = PEE…. PEE EVERYWHERE….. all. the time…. BETTER THINGS!

      Reply
  68. AvatarChristy Rivers says

    October 13, 2016 at 5:02 pm

    My moment. My 20 month old crying at er 5 month of sister crying because she won stop.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:14 pm

      Poor things (all of you). I hope everyone gets happy soon!

      Reply
  69. AvatarFaye Gates says

    October 14, 2016 at 5:42 am

    When I realized I’d dodged a bullet when Hurricane Matthew downgraded. I just got my utilities back on. I ran out of books to read, then found out the library had power, but no internet. They stamped our cards, just like the old days. Thank goodness I now have power after a week.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:15 pm

      Glad you made it through. We were concerned about all of you guys in states getting hit by the storm.

      Reply
  70. AvatarGabrielly says

    October 14, 2016 at 3:04 pm

    Everyday! When you have so many things to do but you have no idea where to start.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:16 pm

      Just one breath at a time. I like to make my morning list of 3 things and then go from there. But some days… BETTER THINGS! lol!

      Reply
  71. AvatarLeah Shumack says

    October 15, 2016 at 7:56 pm

    I slipped on some ice back in January and got up and nothing hurt. 2 days later I was sore and my arm was hurting me. Each day hurting me a little more and on day 5 I ended up heading to the ER. Come to find out I had dislocated my shoulder. After 2 hospitals and 14 hours and surgery I finally was able to come home. Of course out of it for a few days adjusting to meds and not being able to use my arm. Was out of work for 3 months as well. I cleaned out my savings and things were tight but we made it through. 10 months later and I’m finally starting to feel at 100% with my arm again movement wise…never thought it’d be that bad from a fall that seemed fine! Better things ahead for sure!

    Reply
    • Autumn Rose ReoAutumn Rose Reo says

      October 27, 2016 at 8:27 pm

      Hey Leah – can you send us an email to autumn@mamachallenge.com?

      Reply
  72. AvatarFayme stringer Henry says

    October 15, 2016 at 9:05 pm

    A lot of days can be considered those kind of days, but since losing both my parents at a relatively young age, I try to keep in mind that every day I wake up is GRAVY!

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:18 pm

      Yes, everyday is a gift and I try not to lose sight of that.

      Reply
  73. AvatarSue Hull says

    October 15, 2016 at 10:02 pm

    I’d have to say that moment is today. I found out a couple months ago my rent would go up. Then I found out it was going up $400. Im on section 8 and Im not able to work. I found out today I have to pay the full raise starting Dec.1st. Not a nice way to start out on my favorite month. I love Christmas. I also know Jesus Is The Reason For The Season.
    When it rains it pours. Thank you for the chance 🙂

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:19 pm

      Sorry to hear that, friend. I hope all will end well for you. Better things for sure.

      Reply
  74. AvatarJenny S says

    October 16, 2016 at 4:54 pm

    Probably the first time I had my stepdaughters alone when my husband was away for work. Monday morning at 5am the youngest comes in my room to announce she’s vomited in her bed. The oldest was out of control hyper trying to get her ready for school. Then the youngest announced the toilet is over flowing. It was quite the day.

    Reply
  75. AvatarCami Valenzuela says

    October 17, 2016 at 5:37 pm

    When I came in from playing outside with my boys and my whole living room was flooded.. apparently my washer gave out. 2 days later I got up with my husband turned on my dishwasher and I laid back down. I heard water dripping got up to see water flooded my kitchen. There was a block in the dishwasher lines 🙁 safe to say I had the cleanest floors that week.

    Reply
    • AvatarAutumn Reo says

      October 31, 2016 at 6:20 pm

      Way to look at the silver lining! haha Better things!

      Reply

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Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

Autumn Rose ReoGet 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... https://www.mamachallenge.com/about/

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