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Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Beyond Lasik: What Else Does Kleiman-Evangelista Do?

April 17, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK and other services beyond Lasik at Kleiman|Evangelista with the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

If you’ve followed my journey to perfect eyesight after 25 years in glasses, you’d think it’s been a long process.

Actually, from the moment I stepped in the door for a free consultation to my post-procedure appointment, it was only three weeks. Three weeks that has changed my life from something that affected me daily for almost three decades. While the time was short, the connection I have made with the team at Kleiman-Evangelista is strong.


But why wouldn’t it be?

Everyone I’ve come in contact with has been more than just friendly – they were integral in making a big difference in my life. I trusted them with one of my most valuable organs and they gave me the ability to see without glasses. That’s a pretty big promise and they over-delivered in giving me both what I wanted with a huge helping of support, guidance, and good customer service.

Post-appt

So when you have that connection with a company, you don’t necessarily want it to end. Just like a friend, you want it to extend past this one moment and in this case, other services.

AwakeningsMedSpa

I discovered that Kleiman-Evangelista offers more healthy vision. They have a Med Spa on property called Awakenings that offers everything from massages, to facials and peels, non-surgical body contouring and sculpting technologies and an extensive line of medical skin care products. And rather than going into a place you’ve never been to, Awakenings MedSpa gives you the professionalism and experience you expect from the KE Center.

 

A photo posted by Awakenings Med Spa (@awakeningsmedspa) on Apr 15, 2015 at 2:04pm PDT

I’m anxious to make an appointment. A few of the services that really have me interested include:

Dermaplaning

Starting to notice that unwanted hair around your chin, cheeks and neck that you want to get rid of? Of course, I don’t have any of that (at least that I want to show you in an up-close photo), but I’ll admit there may be a few places that could be “attended to.” An alternative to waxing and threading, dermaplanning uses a surgical scalpel to remove the top layers of dead skin cells and unwanted facial hair. It improves the appearance of facial wrinkles and acne scars and is effective treatment for skin issues and environmentally damaged skin.

Coolsculpting

Ready to freeze off fat? Me too. CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling (Cryolipolysis®) to gently and effectively freeze and eliminate unwanted fat cells. Ironically, the concept was discovered by Harvard University scientists who notices children developed dimples in their cheeks eating popsicles. “The idea that cold can selectively freeze and eliminate fat cells without damaging the surrounding tissue is the science behind CoolSculpting.” [Awakenings Med Spa.]


Did you know that you are born with a certain number of fat cells and depending on when you lose or gain weight, those cells increase or shrink? With Coolsculpting, the cells are completely rid from your body.


During the procedure, fat cells are frozen, crystallizing them, and causing them to die. Then the body expels them so then you’re left with a learner you. 

Once I have this one, I hope to share the results with you exactly the way I did with my Lasik – up close and personal. 

MicroNeedling

Looking to get rid of those beginning wrinkles and scars? Microneedling uses tiny needles to create microholes in the skin to stimulate the body’s natural process of rapid collagen and elastin production. The new thicker skin will resemble your younger self, one without the look the wrinkles and before sun damage. This service can be done in several areas of the body and with basically no downtime, you’ll have the look of fresh, subtle skin in almost no time.

Kleiman-Evangelista-Eye-Center

Believe me, once you realize that there is a way to live a better life with the help of Kleiman-Evangelista, why wouldn’t you?

Check out their Facebook for new promotions offered for any of these services, as well as LASIK, or view the website for more information.

Don’t miss these #mamachallenge moments:

Is-Lasik-Right-For-You-KE

Lasik-Procedure

The Cost of NOT Having LASIK

After-Lasik

What Happens After Lasik Surgery

April 11, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK, including what happens after Lasik surgery, with the help of Kleiman|Evangelista and the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

A few weeks after Lasik, you’d think maybe I’ve gotten used to not having to wear glasses.

Nope. 


Each morning, I’m more excited every day that I finally did it.

First-Segment-After-Appt

First segment AFTER lasik! (No back and forth with glasses on off camera and taking them off right before we go live.) Can’t wait to share it with you soon!

But now what? Is there anything that happens after lasik?

  • Are there other appointments? 
  • Can you swim or exercise? 
  • Do you have medications to take? 
  • Do you have to do it again later? 
  • Do you get eye infections? 
  • Can you mess it up? 

I can report at least at this point – I haven’t messed anything up and nor will I. You can’t do much to “mess it up” after your recovery period…as long as pay attention to the few things not to do after the procedure. 

What-Happens

You may be asked to NOT do a few of your normal activities (up to a week after the procedure) including: 

  • Exercise (after a few days I was allowed to exercise) 
  • Driving (is normally just for the first day depending on your doctor) 
  • Makeup (no eye makeup for a week. This was my hardest part!) 
  • Spa or Sauna 
  • Gardening or other areas where there is soil in sand 
  • Smoking isn’t forbidden, but perhaps may irritate your eyes
  • Rubbing your eyes!

eye5

Yep, it may seem very obvious to not rub your eyes, but you’d be surprised how often you touch your eyes you don’t even know it! Sleeping might be easier with the special goggles they give to you post-procedure to wear. You won’t want to clean out your eyes with your fingers either. Your hands carry so much bacteria and you definitely don’t want that in your “new” eyes. 

Eye Drops

All I can say is that the recommended medicated eye drops are your best friend. For real.

And to be honest, mine still are. Especially as A/C and fan season kicks in, my eyes don’t love direct air blowing on my eyeballs. And with allergies in full swing, my eyes were already burning before. There hasn’t been any increase, but the drops sure have helped the dryness and itchiness that I normally experience. 

Post-appt

After the procedure and your initial follow-up appointment, there will be other appointments, but just a few and far between typically – one after a week and then around six weeks later. After this point, your doctor will choose if and when other appointments are necessary. On average, it’s just like you would before lasik – recommended at at least once a year. 

While like any procedure, you aren’t always perfect right off the bat. But it amazes me how much my eyes changed in such a short amount of time. Originally, I saw a little halo effect around bright lights, but that only lasted a few days. And remember, I was seeing 20/20 the next day. 

Kleiman-Evangelista-Eye-Center

Of course, everyone’s eyes are a little different.  I’ve shared my experience candidly with Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center and am excited to report nothing but rave reviews. So what are you waiting for? There’s no time like the present to start seeing your life more clearly with lasik. 

Make your free appointment now. 

Don’t miss these #mamachallenge moments:

Is-Lasik-Right-For-You-KE

 

Lasik-Procedure

 

The Cost of NOT Having LASIK

The Cost of NOT Having LASIK

April 5, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 2 Comments

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK, including the cost of not having Lasik, with the help of Kleiman|Evangelista and the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

I can’t believe it’s already been a month since I had HD BladeFree Lasik at Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center.

Thinking back on the last 30 days, it overwhelms me how much my life has changed. REALLY. 

  • Like each morning when I reach for my glasses and realize I don’t need them…
  • When I put on eye makeup and don’t have to cover it up with big lenses…
  • Reaching to pick up my daughter and not have to say “watch my glasses”…
  • Putting on my running shoes and I don’t have to grab glasses to see…
  • Or watching TV, the computer, going to the movies, or checking my smartphone – I don’t have to have glasses. 
 

I think this is a sign… Don’t you hate when you’re that reliant on a little bit of plastic? #glasses #mamachallenge #dallasblogger #eyes #whattodo #working #cantsee #urgh #lasik #foureyes

A photo posted by Autumn Reo | Mamachallenge.com (@autumnreo) on Mar 5, 2016 at 12:22pm PST

Like many people, I had been thinking about Lasik for years, but kept coming up with excuses to put it off.

Will it hurt? 

I don’t have time for the down time? 

What if something happens? 

Do I really need it? 

It costs too much. 

However, the idea of wanting Lasik was always there in the back of my head. Kinda like a little whisper that always got louder each time I went to get new glasses, broke my frames, or my glasses slid down my nose (daily.) 

The Cost of NOT Having LASIK

Then there was finally a moment I realized – what was I waiting for? 

My eyes are one of our most precious resources. Why was I willing to spend money on clothes or a car that I only used temporarily instead of my eyes that I used everyday to work, to drive, and of course, see my children?!? Almost everything I do includes my eyes, so why wasn’t I willing to reap the benefits of 20/20 vision on my own! 

While those were the intrinsic costs, what about the real hard costs of having glasses/contacts? Lasik is normally performed only once, while glasses and/or contacts are an annual cost. 


Let’s break it down. According to a 2013 market study, average annual costs of corrective lenses are as follows*:

Eye Exam: $100 – $200
Contact Lenses: $250 – $700
Contact Lens Supplies: $150 – $200
Glasses with Designer Frames: $500 – $1000
Backup Pair of Glasses: $100 – $200
Prescription Sunglasses: $500+
Total: $1600+/ year


If you do the math, having glasses and/or contacts ain’t exactly cheap. And last year for Christmas, my husband bought me two pairs of prescription sunglasses. Those little gifts cost around $450 a piece! So for me, my Lasik could have almost been paid for when you start adding up costs like that.  

Although, I wish Lasik was covered under insurance, unfortunately it’s not normally covered under your benefits. However, some plans (like mine) do allow for Lasik to be included in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Spending Account (HSA.) And when you combine that, with the discounts/promotions often offered by Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center, the cost are very affordable. 

While every patient is different, so every procedure is different, costs for Lasik can range depending on your provider and your needs. For a procedure like my HD BladeFree Lasik, costs range starting at $2,500 per eye. However, your eyes isn’t where you want to start looking for the cheapest service available either. It’s your eyes!!! You want to not just pick the place with the most experience, but also the best customer service, and certainly who is going to be up front with you about everything from the start. 

Lasik-Eye-Procedure

For me, I found that at Kleiman-Evangelista and you will, too. You can make appointment any day of the week for free or if you have a few questions before you even step in the door, get online now and chat with someone immediately to give you more information as you start your own path in seeing the world in a whole new way. 

Kleiman-Evangelista-Eye-Center

A better way. A better life.

Why wait for that? 

Don’t Miss this #mamachallenge moment:

Is-Lasik-Right-For-You-KE

 

Lasik-Procedure

What REALLY Happens: Lasik Laser Eye Surgery {Free Printable}

March 26, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 31 Comments

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK, with a look at her LASIK laser eye surgery, with the help of Kleiman|Evangelista and the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

Did it hurt? 

That’s been the #1 question I’ve been asked since I had my Blade-Free HD IntraLasik at Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center.


So I want to share the experience from start to finish and answer one of those other questions that I’ve been asked the most – “Was it worth it?” 

After my first consultation, I made arrangements for my very kind mother to be with me during the procedure only a week later. While the procedure lasts less than 15 minutes (yes only 15 minutes), I needed her there to be able to drive me home (and for me to take care of the kids), after the procedure. 

Pinterest

I put on something comfortable and a little warm as well since the surgery suite is a little cool and once I was home after the procedure I was going to bed.  (This is a perfect time to break out the stretchy pants or that fuzzy Velour suit sitting in the back of your closet.) 

We arrived :30 minutes early so we could arrange for my two prescriptions (two sets of eye drops that were also obtained at the office) and to take something to allow me to relax. I was provided a small dosage of Valium, just enough to keep me calm and not to get too anxious as well as to make me sleepy after the procedure so I could let my eyes rest. (Note to self, you aren’t going out that night to show of your new eyes quite yet!) 

pill
Then just a few minutes later they called my name.  

Show time. 

Eye-Procedure

I walked in to the suite to meet my doctor and the team of experienced professionals ready to make magic happen. While I’m a little foggy about what exactly happened step by step (see mention of Valium above), the doctor took a look at my eyes before the procedure at one of the many machines in the room. And then I was walked over to the laser area, seated comfortable and then it begin. 

Lasik-Eye-Procedure

I’ll admit – it wasn’t like getting a massage. It was a little uncomfortable as my eyes were being completely changed! And with my astigmatism, that meant a little more under the laser. It’s not like I felt anything that hurt; it was just the feeling of a bright light, pressure to my eyes, and then we were done. 

procedure2

Meanwhile, my mother/chauffeur/caretaker/photographer took pictures of the whole thing while I was having the procedure. While I’ll admit it took me a few days to really look at these, it does show almost every part of the procedure – one shot at a time.

So here’s your disclaimer: if you want to see some really, up close photos of my procedure, be my guest. If your stomach is a little weak, I wouldn’t do it. Just remember, these photos are in no order of the procedure, but they are pretty wild what happens in the Lasik Suite. However, if you want to see a video that explains exactly what happens in a procedure like this, then take a look at this.

Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
IMG_8382
IMG_8382
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista
Lasik Eye Procedure at Kleiman Evangelista

When it was done, they took another look at my eyes and said “Everything looks good.” 

eye5

I was able to put on some shades (your eyes are uber sensitive after the procedure) and my mother walked me to the car. 

As soon as we got home, I slid into bed. 

I had hoped I would nod off to sleep, but two little kids that had gotten home from school wanted to check on me and I wanted to hug them. 

They each visited me quietly in the bed and carefully kissed me so they wouldn’t touch my eyes. I was wearing my super awesome eye shields to keep them from hitting my eyes while I laid down), but they wanted to be extra careful. 

Soon after I did begin to feel more pressure on my eyes. Actually I don’t have the words for the feeling since I hadn’t really had that sensation on my eyes before. Somewhere between having a tattoo  (you know that feeling after you have it) and that straining feeling after a long day of staring at the computer. Since I’m not much of one for pain (like zero tolerance), I had my mom call the doctor to make sure it was normal to feel uncomfortable. 

They did let her know for everyone the discomfort is different, so some people don’t feel anything, while others will feel pressure and pain. However, two Tylenol PMs took care of that and my anxiety, so soon I was off to sleep. 

The next morning when I woke up, I took off my special sleepwear, ready to see if I could see. 

Wow, I could! I mean like it was crystal clear due quite yet, but it was a huge difference than when I had woke up all the years before. 

Before getting ready to go to my follow-up appointment that morning, as instructed, I put in my drops. (Actually my mama did, but I was definitely making use of having my mama time while mine was there!) The drops are a really important part of the Lasik process because they relieve a lot of the dryness and pressure from your eyes beginning to heal. The instructions from my doctor were to put in the medicated drops four times a day and the eye drops once an hour. Although that sounded like a lot, I crafted a little chart (after the one my mom sketched to use on me) that was able to keep me in check with my drops and added an alarm to my phone to remind me to take them. 

Eye-Drop-Chart

Remember, this was a guide created by mamachallenge.com. Please remember to consult with your doctor for any prescription/dosage instructions post surgery.

PDF | GOOGLE DOC

For someone like me who is often on the computer (yes, that same day I was back on the computer), eye drops will help you so much. AND while it wasn’t required of my Lasik, my regular optometrist had always told me getting up and getting away from the computer after so long in front of the computer was necessary for good eye health. So I was back on the computer, but not quite for the 10 hour stretch (at least not yet!) 

When I returned the next day for my followup post-opp appointment at the Kleiman-Evangelista Eye Center, I was able to meet with my doctor to see how things were going with my eyes after the surgery. After just a few minutes of me looking into the eye machines, he said things looked great and to continue to take the drops as instructed throughout the week. 

And then I made my post-surgery appointment for a week and that was it. 

KEPhoto

Seems so easy, right? It was. (And no judgement on no makeup. Remember, no eye make up – that’s a rule for a week!) 

And was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY. 

I’ll share next time about what it’s been like since the appointment and of course, why not getting Lasik may actually be costing you money. 

Yep, that’s right. It’s not as cheap as you think wearing glasses, contacts and all the other stuff that goes with it. 

Don’t Miss this #mamachallenge moment:

Is-Lasik-Right-For-You-KE

 

What to Expect: First Lasik Appointment

March 15, 2016 By Autumn Rose Reo 12 Comments

Thinking about LASIK, but don’t know where to start? Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge is giving you a real look at LASIK, starting with the first LASIK appointment, with the help of Kleiman|Evangelista and the Mom it Forward Blogger Network. #KEHELPEDMESEE

My junior year of high school had lots of good things happen. However, one of the two big moments that happened included getting braces AND glasses. While my prescription wasn’t bad, my astigmatism was. I tried contacts, but there wasn’t enough frustration or money to try to keep finding the “right” ones for me, so I gave up.  From that point on, me and the glasses didn’t stray far from one another…and that’s been about 20 years ago. 

Is-Lasik-Right-For-You-KE


And while I can tell you many funny stories about glasses, including the ways I’ve broken them, at one point I finally had enough. 

In just one morning:

  • I had forgotten where I laid my specs down the night before, so I spent 7 minutes looking for them.
  • When I found them they were covered in little people fingertips and I had to clean them.
  • Then when I cleaned them they smeared even more.
  • I rushed to get in the car and had to switch my glasses for sunglasses (the ones I spent a fortune on for prescription glasses I wasn’t ashamed of.)
  • When I ran into the A/C, my glasses fogged up so I had wait for them to clear.
  • After sitting in a long meeting, the glasses slid down my nose so I pushed them about 10 times in between taking them off to rest my eyes and the headache I was beginning to feel.

…And that was all before 10 AM.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t look bad in glasses and have really built a style to wearing them. And while I never wear them on camera, they are on right before and right after that camera goes to “ON AIR.” 

MamaChallenge-Guess-Frames-VIsionworks

But at one point, you just want to make your life easier and get rid of the unnecessary crap that gets in your way and annoys you. This year was supposed to be about change. For the better. I’ve been making changes to make me happier and the best me I could be. 

So after thinking about it for 10+ years, I decided to quit making wishes and making things happen.  So to Google I went and found out I could make a free appointment to start the process with one the leader in LASIK, Kleiman|Evangelista and they had a location close to me. I wasn’t sure what the process was, but I figured this was the first way to figuring it out what’s next and it was free. What do you have to lose? 

Kleiman-Evangelista-Eye-Center

So here’s what happens at the first consultation (of course, each experience may differ based on the patient, location and person needs, but this will give you a basic feel for what will happen based on my experience at Kleiman|Evangelista.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FREE CONSULTATION LASIK APPOINTMENT

1. Enter the Waiting Room to check in and wait to hear your name.
I was surrounded by others just like me that either were getting the surgery or coming in for a first-time appointment. While you’re there you’ll be able to watch the other surgeries happening while they are happening with this lovely clear door. Yes, you can watch it from start to finish since it only last 15 minutes! (Of course, if you don’t want people to watch, they do that, too!

Lasik-Waiting-Room

2. Next I was ushered into first room to receive basic eye exam as well as to look at the health of the eye.

Is-Lasik-Right-For-You

3. Then I entered another room to take give me a real feel for what was going to happen in the procedure. (It only takes 15 minutes to do the procedure, but it’s amazing what happens in that time!) At this time I was given an opportunity to ask every question – big or small. Actually throughout the entire process, I was asked if I had any questions. While I had a few, I was able to find a lot of answers online at the website. However, I think the biggest one of course, like everyone is – “Is it going to hurt?” (And my answer to that I can share after my procedure next week!) 

Lasik

4. Next you’ll take a seat in another waiting room for another look at my eyes with an Ophthalmologist. I love that they were so thorough to make sure that I really was the ideal candidate for the procedure. (I was really nervous about the procedure but the fact that they kept checking everything so thoroughly made me feel that much more confident.)

Optho

5. Meet with your doctor to determine if you are a good or bad candidate based on all the records of your eye health examination. 

Based on your candidacy, you’ll make your way back to the waiting area and meet with team area to get a breakdown of costs. Candidacy is based on several different factors, I found out during my appointment, But basically five majors ones:

  • You need to have stable vision.
  • You should be 18 years of age or older.
  • You should not be pregnant or nursing.
  • You have sufficient corneal thickness.
  • You should have realistic expectations.
  • You are a great post-procedure patient.

Find out more about if you are a good LASIK candidate.

6. If you are a good candidate, now you get to make the appointment. Depending on your schedule, you make your appointment for your surgery and cover all the dos and don’ts. Make sure to have your calendar with you so you can get a date on the calendar. A few things you’ll need to take into consideration when making your LASIK surgery is:

  • You will need to have someone to drive you home after the appointment. (Thanks, mom!) 
  • You will go home that day and go to bed, so while recovery is quick, it’s not that quick! (Also, thanks to mom for watching the kids!) 
  • You’ll not be able to go in a hot tub, pool or wear makeup for a week. (So don’t plan for that vacation yet.) 
  • Followup with routine drops as prescribed. (I had two sets of drops and they’ll tell you exactly how and when to add them.)
  • Attend a few appointments to followup. (These appointments will be to make sure how your eyes are shaping up!)

7. Now all you have to do is wait for your LASIK surgery appointment!

Lasik-Procedure

Everyone is invited to make a free appointment Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 pm, with appointment to find out start the lasik process. However, there is quick test that can tell you right now if you’re right choice for them.

Now what?  Next week I’m sharing my procedure experience, so make sure to stay connected! 

Kleiman-Evangelista

Seeing things for the first time: I’m sharing everything you need to know about Blade-Free HD IntraLASIK, the newest and best LASIK treatment available at Kleiman|Evangelista Eye Center. 

 

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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Pictures Say a 1000 Words

Fancy Schmancy. This month’s @torchystacos Taco Fancy Schmancy.

This month’s @torchystacos Taco of the Month is this beut: she’s full of eggs, smoked salmon, pickled onions, capers, chopped dill, and the herb cream cheese. And yes she’s fancy but oh so good and worth the splurge.

Paired with a side of queso and change out the chips for chicharrones with that white queso (and maybe a Paloma), and you’re golden. 

#torchytacos #salmon #tacos #paloma #fancy #torchys #dryjanuary #dill #salmon #dfweats #dallaseats
Who doesn’t like chocolate? But what if it’s Who doesn’t like chocolate?

But what if it’s truffles made with avocados past their prime? 🤢? Don’t knock it until you try it #recipeontheblog

Today on @wfaagmt I shared how to make the most of those leftovers and old vegetables and fruits! The kitchen smells so good with an apple tarte tartin, truffles, potato chips, broth, banana bread, and this cilantro green sauce! ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Taken from @beardfoundation:

INGREDIENTS

1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1⁄2 cup fresh cilantro stems (from 1 bunch of cilantro)
1⁄2 cup olive oil or neutral oil, such as organic canola or grapeseed
1⁄2 tsp ground cumin

DIRECTIONS

In a blender or the mixing cup of a small food processor or immersion blender, combine the vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Swirl a few times to dissolve the salt. Add the stems, olive oil, and cumin — puree. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

#wfaa #tv #recipe #goodmorningtexas #chocolatetruffles #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger #eatwell #dfw #momblogger #healthylifestyle #wholefoodmethod
Kept and Queso may sound a lot alike, but I don’ Kept and Queso may sound a lot alike, but I don’t think that’s the way it work...🌯

Today was a busy one: getting ready for the week and getting prepped for a tv segment (tomorrow on @wfaagmt, so I had to call in for reinforcements. While I may be on the no-carb wagon, the rest of the fam wanted something different -  fresh, full of flavor and delivered fast...enter @savageburritos!

Made from the @unclejuliosmexican family, this ghost kitchen delivery service offers specialty burritos, bowls, salads, the holy trinity (queso, chips and salsa) and even dessert - all to your door! 

Find ‘em online and find out why you’ll go savage for more! And thanks @savageburritos for such great service! 

#savageburritos #savageburrito #unclejulios #texmex #dfweats #mamachallenge #dallasfood #dallasmoms #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger
Nothing like trying to eat healthier and your kid Nothing like trying to eat healthier and your kid surprises you with an over-the-top hot cocoa in bed.

...But at least she put it in my @shopcarrieelle mugs.

I’m wondering if this was my first teat of 2021.
Hoping to make 2021 a lot brighter. ✨ Happy New Hoping to make 2021 a lot brighter. ✨

Happy New Year’s Y’all!

#ArlingtonTexas #ArlingtonTx #dfw #nye #lonestarnye
Consider 2021 the light at the end of the tunnel. Consider 2021 the light at the end of the tunnel.

We’ve been working to squeeze in all the celebrations this week before it’s time to work out all the tears, wine and carbs 2020 brought. 🍷 🥖 😭 

What’s your NYE plan? And most of all what’s your last cheat meal? 

#dfw #nye #newyears #covidchristmas2020 #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger
The 80s are coming back in full force...but does m The 80s are coming back in full force...but does my visor match my mask? 😱

Actually my #OOTD is part of our equipment to take down aliens in London circa 1984 at @electricgamebox, the new immersive gaming experience @grandscapetx. Opening December 24, it’s the perfect way to spend some family time TOGETHER, hear a bada$@ soundtrack (hello, 80s!?!) and burn calories (don’t worry about those extra cookies!)

Before you go: 

🕹Have a team name ready

🕹Wear tennis shoes, no hats or hair bands, and comfortable clothes. 

🕹There’s a locker to put your bag in if you need to drop it off!

🕹Safety is #1: Masks are a must, no contact and you’re the only ones in your game room! 

🕹The experience is an hour so be ready to move bc you will! 

Swipe to see our score and family photo (emailed to you after your experience!)

Thanks for some pre-Christmas fun Electric Gamebox! (Partner)

#dallas #dfw #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger #dallasmoms #dallastexas #electricgamebox #covidchristmas #2020 #openingsoon
❄️ I’m dreaming of a White Christmas... We ❄️ I’m dreaming of a White Christmas...

We normally head to the mountains at Christmas time, but this year we’re just happy to celebrate Christmas healthy and together with lots of wonderful trips around home including to the @gaylordtexan. So we broke from our matching plaid instead with this mom/daughter snowflake set from @shinestythreads. Most their stuff is exactly what you need to dominate the Christmas sweater game, our little bit of cheesy (cue “Let it Go...”) but came out too sweet not to share. (When they’re this age, you take it when you get it!)

Shinesty is the resource for all the holidays apparel and even does free returns! Save their page for when you need to be the talk of the party (online and in person.) 

🎄And for details about the @gaylordtexan Lonestar Christmas like this week’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Brunch, head to the blog (and remember the code REO gets you a discount on some of your activities!)

#shinesty #snow #dfw AD #gaylordchristmas #gaylordtexan #visitgrapevine #dallastexas #dfwinfluencer #dallasbloggers #matchingoutfits #snowdfw #somuchchristmas
One other thing came out of #2020 besides drive-th One other thing came out of #2020 besides drive-thru margaritas...I had time to enjoy wrapping my gifts! 

While we had a minor Santa disaster yesterday, I devised a mom save and moved on to the wrapping paper! I even made my Christmas tags with my @Cricut to match my white & silver snow theme! 

Do you theme your wrapping? What was this year?

You finally can get yours or stock up on accessories now at 50% off now with this link or download the LIKEtoKNOW.it shopping app to shop this pic via screenshot. http://liketk.it/34fvi #liketkit @liketoknow.it 
 #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome @liketoknow.it.family @liketoknow.it.home
...Hold your horses! 🐴✨🎄 I love celebrati ...Hold your horses! 🐴✨🎄

I love celebrating our holiday traditions, but this year we made a new one! I’ve always wanted to see Christmas lights by carriage ride and this year we made it happen by surprising the girls! 

We spent the night looking at beautiful houses, drinking hot chocolate under the blankets and hearing some of the best commentary from the girls!

🐴 There are several different carriage ride companies (we used Whitehaven Carriages) that drive through Deerfield and Highland Park with multiple types of carriages (there’s even a Cinderella) for varying prices starting around $175+. 

🐴While rides reserve quickly, you might be able to find some after the holidays! If not, put this in the calendar for next year because it’s a must do!

(I’ve shared some of it on Instastories!)

#dfw #highlandpark #dallasbloggers  #christmasdecor #horses #chriatmaslights #dallas #dfwevents #dallasinfluencer #dfwinfluencer #christmastradition
Just ONE more day! The countdown to Christmas may Just ONE more day!

The countdown to Christmas may be a week away, but @thecroods New Age is available by demand tomorrow! 

The kids have been so excited about this debut and have decorated for the occasion with their goodies from @dreamworks! 🎁 (Partner)

#CROODSNEWAGE #dreamworks #thecroods #giftideas #dfwinfluencers #dallassocialinfluencers #movie #fandango #momlife #sloth
🎶I’m dreaming of a white Christmas...🎶 . 🎶I’m dreaming of a white Christmas...🎶 

...to drink that is, The Dude style. Picking up last minute gifts, I took a brief break at @lockwooddistillingco. They have a great holiday cocktail list and if you’re lucky, you’ll find some awesome gift baskets under their Biggie & Snoop Christmas tree will make everyone happy for Christmas (twofer!)

Whatever you do, don’t leave without a bottle of the Bourbon Creme or Cinnamon Rum to make it through the holidays (who needs eggnog when you can drink this?)

#lockwooddistillingco #biglebowski #dfw #richardsontx #dallastx #holidaydrinks #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger #whitechristmas #giftidea #biggie #snoop
#MomTruth: What are you buying and wrapping yourse #MomTruth: What are you buying and wrapping yourself to put under the tree and saying it’s from the kids? 🌲 

For me it was this crossbody from @bestofsevenshop. I love a beautiful big handbag (hello @louisvuitton!), but lately I’ve kept it to the essentials as we enjoyed all the holiday events safely, but I still wanted it to be cute! 

Best of Seven style is classic: full of pockets and zippers as well different styles that let you interchange colors to make it your own! “Keeping it your own” is their mission by celebrating diversity:
🌈 races
🌈religion
🌈genders
🌈sexual orientation
🌈Abilities and disabilities
🌈Ages

And you know I love a monogram! 

Today’s the last day to get 30% off and still get it personalized! Get the link in my profile!

#bestofseven #diversity #giftideas #dallasblogger #style #holidays #grinch #rainbow #dfwinfluencers #dallasmoms #covidchristmas
SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS. 🎄🎁🎅🏼 It’s incred SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS. 🎄🎁🎅🏼

It’s incredible how much you can do in 24 hours and how many photos you can take - 422 to be exact.

Have you been so busy you haven’t had time to do the Christmas stuff? Get in all the holiday fun with our guide to SO MUCH Christmas at the Gaylord Texan @gaylordtexan.

We even share how to save some money (use the code REO!)

Link to the guide is in the profile and #ontheblog.

#gaylordtexan #ChristmasatGaylordTexan #ilovechristmasmoviesWB #SoMuchChristmas #gaylordchristmas #dfw #visitgrapevine #christmas #dfwinfluencers #dallasinfluencer #travelblogger #traveltex #grapevinetx
Are you making a different kind of O Face because Are you making a different kind of O Face because your not sure if that box is gonna make it? O-NO! 😱

Deadlines start today fast and being in those long lines might be the worst part of Christmas. However, I shared some tips  on @wfaagmt on how you can avoid feeling like a Grinch when it comes to shipping. 🙌🏻

Here are some tips you might not know before you get in line: 

🎁 The big three all have pick up at your house, by going online and scheduling for pick up @ups, @usps.official and @fedex.

Did you know that several stores actually have shipping inside? 
🎁Some Ace Hardware stores @acehardware and local Eliott’s Hardware
🎁 @Staples - they have all the supplies for you to box it up (and I have a coupon in my Instastories!)
🎁 CVS ships UPS
🎁 Heading to those third party parcel stores can definitely save you some time.

Ship to Store is a huge way to get the item delivered quicker to you or to have sent. 
🎁 Get your @amazon sent to an Amazon Locker  or @wholefoods for shipping and pick up! 
🎁 @target - drive through pick up with the App 
🎁 @Walmart - just launched a new service called Walmart+ which is like Amazon Prime where you can get it. (Try it free now!) 

Last-minute shipping?
🎁 While you might not want to pay for those last-minute shipping services, if you use @rakuten you can save money on your purchase so then it still can be affordable for your budget. (I have already racked up a $600 cash back check just for using Rakuten - head to my profile to get a link to get $20 back when you use it! (It’s FREE!) 

@wfaagmt @wfaa #dfw #shipping #holiday #savemoney #dfwinfluencers #dallasinfluencers #dallas #giftideas #mamachallenge #giftguide #covidchristmas
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