Keep the kids happy and keep you sane with this giveaway from AMF Jingle Bowl for $100 gift card (redeemable at area AMF locations.)
Learn more about the AMF Jingle Bowl with my post on Today's Mama
Minggu, 30 Juni 2013
Jumat, 28 Juni 2013
Go Red, White and Blue with Kenny's Blue Cheese Potato Salad {Recipe}
Food Fridays:
One of the great things about my job is that I get to work with some pretty amazing chefs and restaurants. This means most the time I've gotten to sample their menu or at least several different offerings. However, it doesn't mean that I've tasted it all. So this week I was elated to finally get my hands on menu items I've described at Kenny's Smoke House, in Plano but never had my taste buds get in on the fun.
I will admit - BBQ is not my first food pick. I can enjoy it, but I don't normally crave for it. But my hubs does, so we make our rounds to the BBQ joints. But I will tell you that after biting into one of the juicy brisket slices, I was pretty well on my way to BBQ heaven. It was good, flavorful, juicy and just the perfect amount of fat and meat. And it smelled SO good.
But I had to move on to try more- the smoked turkey. Unfortunately by the time I got to the turkey, there wasn't any left. (I had two kiddos chow down and finish it in a matter of minutes.) While I was dissapointed, I still had one more thing to bite into - Blue Cheese Potato Salad.
A great play on the classic recipe, this was my kind of potato salad, featuring the pungent flavor of blue cheese, bacon and red potatoes. Just looking at the bowl, it screamed "this is July 4th." And did I mention I took down the whole bowl?
So using my "insider connections," I was able to get the recipe. Which is good because I needed to make more of this stuff and being that next week is Independence Day, now was the perfect time. And now I'm sharing it with you.
4 Lbs Red Skin Potatoes (Chopped, 1/2 Inch)
2-1/2 Cups Blue Cheese Dressing (Favorite)
1 Tsp Salt
1 Tbs White Sugar
Pinch Cayenne Pepper
2 Tbs White Vinegar
1 Cup Bacon, Cooked, Chopped
1 Cup Blue Cheese Crumbles
Place cut potatoes in boiling water and boil until soft (approx 15 minutes).
Drain potatoes and let cool.
In a separate bowl, combine all other ingredients except bacon and blue cheese to make dressing. Mix well with whisk.
When potatoes have cooled to where they can be touched (still warm) combine with dressing and mix well. Crush some potatoes so that it comes together and is not too soupy.
Refrigerate until chilled.
Garnish with bacon and blue cheese.
Enjoy!
One of the great things about my job is that I get to work with some pretty amazing chefs and restaurants. This means most the time I've gotten to sample their menu or at least several different offerings. However, it doesn't mean that I've tasted it all. So this week I was elated to finally get my hands on menu items I've described at Kenny's Smoke House, in Plano but never had my taste buds get in on the fun.
But I had to move on to try more- the smoked turkey. Unfortunately by the time I got to the turkey, there wasn't any left. (I had two kiddos chow down and finish it in a matter of minutes.) While I was dissapointed, I still had one more thing to bite into - Blue Cheese Potato Salad.
A great play on the classic recipe, this was my kind of potato salad, featuring the pungent flavor of blue cheese, bacon and red potatoes. Just looking at the bowl, it screamed "this is July 4th." And did I mention I took down the whole bowl?
So using my "insider connections," I was able to get the recipe. Which is good because I needed to make more of this stuff and being that next week is Independence Day, now was the perfect time. And now I'm sharing it with you.
Kenny’s Smoke House Blue Cheese Potato Salad
2-1/2 Cups Blue Cheese Dressing (Favorite)
1 Tsp Salt
1 Tbs White Sugar
Pinch Cayenne Pepper
2 Tbs White Vinegar
1 Cup Bacon, Cooked, Chopped
1 Cup Blue Cheese Crumbles
Place cut potatoes in boiling water and boil until soft (approx 15 minutes).
Drain potatoes and let cool.
In a separate bowl, combine all other ingredients except bacon and blue cheese to make dressing. Mix well with whisk.
When potatoes have cooled to where they can be touched (still warm) combine with dressing and mix well. Crush some potatoes so that it comes together and is not too soupy.
Refrigerate until chilled.
Garnish with bacon and blue cheese.
Enjoy!
Kamis, 27 Juni 2013
The Demise of RSVPs and Thank You Notes?
To-Do Thursdays:
Normally, I would be thinking about all the things to go see and do this weekend...However, I'm knee deep in thank you cards from a certain little boy and girl's birthday party (photos forthcoming.) We are so grateful to have such amazing friends and family to celebrate the occasion and not to mention make Santa look bad with all the goodies they got. #soblessed
I've been working all week to get them completed within an acceptable timeframe - something both my mother and my grandmother drilled into me since birthday (really.) While I'm not always perfect (far from it), I do my best to remember to do them, make them personal and mail them. I was taught it was the right thing to do and just good manners. And of course it gives me a chance to use my pretty stationery from Minted. #nerdalert
However, I've noticed with all our technology and social media at our fingertips, the art of thank yous and RSVPs has definitely changed over the years. Dramatically. I remember I used to get an invite in the mail and you were either required to write a letter back you would be attending or picking up the phone. But that is the thing of the past. Now we get on Facebook, use Evite or even my personal favorite, Paperless Post, and we use the invitaition as a placeholder in our calendar until the day of and then make a decision last-minute if you are going to go or not.
This folks, is not an RSVP.
I know I've done it and from recent events I've attended or hosted, I know that's what many of us are doing. It's nothing new, but technology has made us lazy and rude. On the other hand, the hundreds of event invitations on Facebook have made it very easy to fill up our inboxes and feel overwhelmed by things to do and places to be. We just can't respond to everything. And it's just too enticing with the list of things to do to throw up a blanket "Thank you" message and feel like you've done your part. But have you?
So while I'm by no mean Miss Manners or the gal to lead by example, I would love to hear your thoughts on Thank you notes and RSVPs. What's your experience with them nowadays? Do you think we should use them or are they a thing of the past? Should we create a campaign to reinstate them? Start a points system for those that do it correctly and not let others come to your party in the future (joke)? Do you have a service you use that you love for RSVPs? Are electronic thank yous enough?
Comments, please!
Normally, I would be thinking about all the things to go see and do this weekend...However, I'm knee deep in thank you cards from a certain little boy and girl's birthday party (photos forthcoming.) We are so grateful to have such amazing friends and family to celebrate the occasion and not to mention make Santa look bad with all the goodies they got. #soblessed
I've been working all week to get them completed within an acceptable timeframe - something both my mother and my grandmother drilled into me since birthday (really.) While I'm not always perfect (far from it), I do my best to remember to do them, make them personal and mail them. I was taught it was the right thing to do and just good manners. And of course it gives me a chance to use my pretty stationery from Minted. #nerdalert
However, I've noticed with all our technology and social media at our fingertips, the art of thank yous and RSVPs has definitely changed over the years. Dramatically. I remember I used to get an invite in the mail and you were either required to write a letter back you would be attending or picking up the phone. But that is the thing of the past. Now we get on Facebook, use Evite or even my personal favorite, Paperless Post, and we use the invitaition as a placeholder in our calendar until the day of and then make a decision last-minute if you are going to go or not.
This folks, is not an RSVP.
I know I've done it and from recent events I've attended or hosted, I know that's what many of us are doing. It's nothing new, but technology has made us lazy and rude. On the other hand, the hundreds of event invitations on Facebook have made it very easy to fill up our inboxes and feel overwhelmed by things to do and places to be. We just can't respond to everything. And it's just too enticing with the list of things to do to throw up a blanket "Thank you" message and feel like you've done your part. But have you?
I mean the overcommunication has made us actually quit communicating.
(Now think about that one for a while.)
So while I'm by no mean Miss Manners or the gal to lead by example, I would love to hear your thoughts on Thank you notes and RSVPs. What's your experience with them nowadays? Do you think we should use them or are they a thing of the past? Should we create a campaign to reinstate them? Start a points system for those that do it correctly and not let others come to your party in the future (joke)? Do you have a service you use that you love for RSVPs? Are electronic thank yous enough?
Comments, please!
Rabu, 26 Juni 2013
Why I Was Called "The Sex Lady" - June 27 is National HIV Testing Day
Wow Mom Wednesdays:
While lots of people know I'm a mom, blogger and work in marketing, they don't know that when I was in college I worked at the student health and wellness center on campus.
Part of my job was educating students in classrooms and in organizational settings about healthy decision making in regards to sex and conducting free HIV testing. That means sometimes I was talking to around 3,000 kids about sex and showing them photos of what Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections looked like. (I'll spare you those, but they were pretty rough.)
Part of my job was educating students in classrooms and in organizational settings about healthy decision making in regards to sex and conducting free HIV testing. That means sometimes I was talking to around 3,000 kids about sex and showing them photos of what Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections looked like. (I'll spare you those, but they were pretty rough.)
[Cue the music..."Let's talk about sex, baby, let's talk about you and me..."]
It makes me laugh to think about it now, but there were times I crossed campus going to class and a freshmen would stop me and say, "Hey, aren't you the Sex Lady?" and I would get to answer, "Yes, I talked to you about Herpes and HIV last week."
However, that was only part of my job. The other part was reaching out to the community to test people who thought they may be at risk for HIV. It really was was life changing to hear their stories, hear so many misconceptions people had and unfortunately, sometimes have to hear some really sad stories.
While that part of my life may be over, the need for education and testing isn't. So I'm getting on my soapbox since June 27 is National HIV Testing Day.
Did You Know? (According to the CDC)
- More than 1.1 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV infection
- Almost one in five adults and adolescents living with HIV are unaware that they are infected
- Men and woman in the African-American community make up close to 50% of all new HIV infections in the U.S. per year
- Men in the African-American community make up 70% of those new infections
- Women in the African-American community account for 9 out of 10 new HIV infections amongst women
- The over 50+ age group has one of the fastest rising rates of infection due to physician bias/assumption and lack of HIV community education targeting seniors
HIV is spread through some of the body’s fluids, like blood, semen/sperm, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. HIV is passed from one person to another by:
- Having unprotected sex (vaginal and anal) with a person who is HIV positive
- Sharing needles
- Breastfeeding, pregnancy, or childbirth if the mother has HIV
- Blood transfusion from contaminated blood
- The biggest misconception about HIV is that you have to be "high risk.”
FACT: High risk for HIV is anyone who has ever had sex with one partner, just one time. However, higher risk behaviors include multiple sexual partners, not using protection and IV drug use.
- MYTH: HIV can be spread through non-sexual physical contact such as hugging, handshakes, sharing toilet seats, and from mosquito bites.
- MYTH: HIV can be spread during contact with saliva, such as through kissing or the sharing of utensils.
- MYTH: HIV/AIDS cannot be transmitted during oral sex.
Testing for HIV
Make sure you are having the uncomfortable conversations regarding testing - not only with your partners and your loved ones, but also your physician. Physicians sometimes inappropriately assume that you are not at risk for HIV, thereby missing an opportunity for testing and HIV education.
- Take it upon yourself to request testing for HIV if your physician has not asked you if you want to be tested.
- It is now possible to know results of a testing in as little as 20 minutes with rapid testing, and it can even be done at home.
- If the test results are negative, you now have a responsibility to live your best life by protecting yourself and practicing safe sex each and every time you have sex.
- If the results are positive, you now have a responsibility to get counseled, get treatment, and then live your best life by protecting yourself and practicing safe sex each and every time you have sex.
Many are too afraid of the possibility of a positive result and therefore don't get tested. If the unfortunate happens, and you are exposed to HIV, it's important to know that medical advances and treatments have made it possible for anyone living with HIV to live relatively healthy lives.
- Abstain from having sex
- Practice safer sex: Use condoms
- Get tested regularly (Know your status before having sex with a partner)
if you are looking to get testing, then type in your zip code here to find a location near you. Most HIV sites will provide testing for free or at little-to-no-cost!
Drs. Rob & Karla Robinson have established The Urban Housecall Magazine, an online health and wellness magazine with health information for men, women, and children as well as The Urban Housecall Radio Show to promote the message of health and wellness through the airwaves.
Selasa, 25 Juni 2013
Make a Big Splash at San Antonio's First-Ever Kidcation Week, Aug. 12-18
Travel Tuesdays:
This summer San Antonio turns into a citywide playground for kids and families with the city’s first-ever Kidcation Week, August 12-18. Kidcation Week provides families a chance to closeout summer with one last jam-packed adventure. Visitors can look forward to exclusive kids programming and events, free entertainment and fantastic deals at hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants.
This summer San Antonio turns into a citywide playground for kids and families with the city’s first-ever Kidcation Week, August 12-18. Kidcation Week provides families a chance to closeout summer with one last jam-packed adventure. Visitors can look forward to exclusive kids programming and events, free entertainment and fantastic deals at hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants.
 |
| Photo courtesy of the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau |
The fun begins with a special Kidcation Week Kickoff Party on Monday, August 12, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., at Hemisfair park. This morning celebration will get the party started with a kid’s band, food, a festive Kidcation Week declaration, meet and greets with numerous characters and mascots including the San Antonio Spurs Coyote, SeaWorld San Antonio’s Shamu and Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ Bugs Bunny, and more.
With more than 60 deals and events offered throughout the week, Kidcation Week helps families create lifelong memories at minimal or no cost.
Kidcation Week Events:
- Bat Loco: On August 13, visitors can learn more about San Antonio’s bat community and watch bats emerge under the I-35 bridge on the River Walk for their nightly insect hunt. This event is hosted by the San Antonio River Authority, Paseo del Rio Association and Bat Conservation International
- Dessert Cooking Demonstration: RK Group’s Chef Dave will do a cooking demonstration of popular elementary school desserts in Hemisfair park
- Hemisfair Free Movie Nights: Families can enjoy free PG movies in Hemisfair park every weeknight of Kidcation Week
- Vaquerocation: Cowboy Day: Live just like a cowboy on August 14 with cowboy docents, book readings and activity tables at the Institute of Texan Cultures
- LET’S READ! Kids Back to School FEST: On August 18, Main Plaza will be full of Make and Take arts and crafts, airbrushing and hair styling, musical performances, storytelling, book giveaways, an instrument petting zoo and much more.
 |
| Photo courtesy of the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau |
Kidcation Week Offers:
- Alamo Trolley: Free tour for kids 12 and under with the purchase of an adult tour
- Cheesy Jane’s: Free kids milkshake with any kid’s meal
- El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel: Milk, cookies, balloons, a coupon for complimentary S’mores and an El Tropicano beach ball upon arrival
- Hard Rock Café: Free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entrée
- Kiddie Park and Kiddie Park Pica Pica: Kids get a free cotton candy when they mention Kidcation Week
- San Antonio’s Incredible Pizza: Free kids buffet or $5 game card
- San Antonio Museum of Art: Free admission all week for kids 12 and under
- Witte Museum: Free admission all week for kids 12 and under (entrance to museum's Dinosaurs Unearthed exhibit will be $5 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under)
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Antonio Downtown Alamo Plaza: Every child under age 12 will receive a balloon upon check-in and be entertained by a balloon artist from 4 - 5 p.m.
- Omni San Antonio Hotel at the Colonnade: Each child receives an Omnikids backpack at check-in, milk and cookies delivered at turndown on arrival evening and a cookie decorating session with a chef
Senin, 24 Juni 2013
Get $424 worth of beauty services for $99 at Facelogic Spa
Me Mondays:
Fresh from my inbox - what a deal! For only $99, Facelogic Highland Park is offering the deal-of-the-year to get the following services for all one price:
I love Facelogic...can you tell? Here are some great experiences I have had - and these are just the ones I wrote about! (The massages there are so incredible!)
Can Cookies Make You Lose Weight? The Magic Cookie Can
Save Those Leftovers: Make Your Skin Merry & Bright with Pumpkin and Yams
Fresh from my inbox - what a deal! For only $99, Facelogic Highland Park is offering the deal-of-the-year to get the following services for all one price:
- Express Make Up Application
- Express Signature Facial with Microdermabrasion
- Airbrush Tan
- Brow Wax
- Brow and Lash Tint
- Image Skincare Vitamin C or Peel
- 30 minute massage
- Da Vinci Bleach Whitening
- 10% off any regular period retail
I love Facelogic...can you tell? Here are some great experiences I have had - and these are just the ones I wrote about! (The massages there are so incredible!)
Can Cookies Make You Lose Weight? The Magic Cookie Can
Save Those Leftovers: Make Your Skin Merry & Bright with Pumpkin and Yams
Call Facelogic Highland Park at 214-696-3223 to get your Beauty Pass before it's gone!
Mad Men Season 6 Finale
Mad Men Moms Monday:
Oh wow.
The finale of Mad Men Season 6 definitely was one for the record books.
I couldn't even think up some of the things that happened and if you haven't seen it yet, then I almost don't want to spoil it for you...ALMOST.
So round out our weekly recaps of the show, Shannon from MilkandCuddles.com and I couldn't help but resist watching the last one together. (I'm glad we did because I needed someone to talk to after that!)
Also, in true Mad Men Moms fashion, we also celebrated with a cocktail. Shannon surprised me with a fun chocolate-flavored concotion with cream, black cherry vodka and Kahlua (think White Russian meets Yoohoo!) Little did we know how much the topic of chocolate would become a part of our evening's adventure.
What did you think?
Oh wow.
The finale of Mad Men Season 6 definitely was one for the record books.
I couldn't even think up some of the things that happened and if you haven't seen it yet, then I almost don't want to spoil it for you...ALMOST.
So round out our weekly recaps of the show, Shannon from MilkandCuddles.com and I couldn't help but resist watching the last one together. (I'm glad we did because I needed someone to talk to after that!)
Also, in true Mad Men Moms fashion, we also celebrated with a cocktail. Shannon surprised me with a fun chocolate-flavored concotion with cream, black cherry vodka and Kahlua (think White Russian meets Yoohoo!) Little did we know how much the topic of chocolate would become a part of our evening's adventure.
What did you think?
Jumat, 21 Juni 2013
Get On the SOUL TRAIN to Buttons - June is National Soul Food Month
Food Fridays:
Disclaimer: I was invited to a media event to sample and photograph dishes from Buttons for purposes of this review. No other compensation was received.
There's nothing better then delicious food...unless of course, it's great food accompanied by great friends and some great story-telling.
Then you know it's GOOD.
So when I had the chance to sit down to eat a little soul food during "National Soul Food Month" with Mr. Soul Food himself - Chef Keith “Buttons” Hicks of the award-winning Buttons, I brought my appetite and prepared myself to learn a little something about about soul food (something I know very little about.)
“As a kid, I would watch my grandmothers’ cook by simply adding a little bit of this and a little bit of that and often just making something real good out of nothing,” said Hicks. “They would have the entire house filled with great soul food aromas that would have you anxiously waiting for the food to hurry up and be ready. I knew back then that I wanted to be able to do the exact same thing.”
Can you dig it? (Which is also one of Hicks' token phrases.)
His southern inspired menu includes:
“Soul food has a deeply-rooted history that will continue to be told and experienced for as long as people continue to enjoy and appreciate great tasting food,” said Hicks. “I’m grateful to be able to continuously spread that history through each of my southern recipes, while also building upon the legacy of soul food.”
Derived from the expression of "soul" music, soul food was a culinary movement spawned in the 1960s. Prior to that time, soul-style cooking was simply known as comfort food or southern comfort food, which originated with African slaves in the United States who were given food parts that their owners did not want to eat (i.e. pig's feet, beef tongue, ham hocks, chitterlings, pig ears, and tripe as main delicacies of soul food.) Included are also many foods that came from the African homeland such as okra, black eye peas, watermelon, yams, and many leafy green vegetables.
And because there was a scarcity of meat, the people during this time learned to trap their own wild game and created meals such as shrimp, fish and grits. Meat was primarily consumed on Sundays because it was considered to be a special day. Post slavery, many African-Americans in the South would enjoy hearty meals like chicken and waffles on Sundays to keep them full and satisfied throughout the day because church and many other related activities often would consume most all of their time.
Now that's food that is good for the soul.
So go give your soul a little love and get you some soul food this National Soul Food Month at Buttons.
Buttons Food & Music for the Soul
Website
Disclaimer: I was invited to a media event to sample and photograph dishes from Buttons for purposes of this review. No other compensation was received.
There's nothing better then delicious food...unless of course, it's great food accompanied by great friends and some great story-telling.
Then you know it's GOOD.
So when I had the chance to sit down to eat a little soul food during "National Soul Food Month" with Mr. Soul Food himself - Chef Keith “Buttons” Hicks of the award-winning Buttons, I brought my appetite and prepared myself to learn a little something about about soul food (something I know very little about.)
“As a kid, I would watch my grandmothers’ cook by simply adding a little bit of this and a little bit of that and often just making something real good out of nothing,” said Hicks. “They would have the entire house filled with great soul food aromas that would have you anxiously waiting for the food to hurry up and be ready. I knew back then that I wanted to be able to do the exact same thing.”
Can you dig it? (Which is also one of Hicks' token phrases.)
His southern inspired menu includes:
However, some of things I was able to get my hands on included the new wedgeburg salad, Josh’s pasta, fire grilled chicken & plants, fried green tomatoes and sweet potato mini pie.
- Signature Buttons’ Chicken and Waffles
- oxtails
- shrimp-fish-and-grits
- chicken fried chicken
- as well as tasty sides that include braised cabbage, collard greens, jalapeno cheese grits, sweet potatoes, corn cakes and garlic mashed potatoes.
 |
| Fire-grilled chicken & plants |
“Soul food has a deeply-rooted history that will continue to be told and experienced for as long as people continue to enjoy and appreciate great tasting food,” said Hicks. “I’m grateful to be able to continuously spread that history through each of my southern recipes, while also building upon the legacy of soul food.”
 |
| Fried green tomatoes with an egg (to die for) |
Derived from the expression of "soul" music, soul food was a culinary movement spawned in the 1960s. Prior to that time, soul-style cooking was simply known as comfort food or southern comfort food, which originated with African slaves in the United States who were given food parts that their owners did not want to eat (i.e. pig's feet, beef tongue, ham hocks, chitterlings, pig ears, and tripe as main delicacies of soul food.) Included are also many foods that came from the African homeland such as okra, black eye peas, watermelon, yams, and many leafy green vegetables.
 |
| Sweet potato mini pie |
And because there was a scarcity of meat, the people during this time learned to trap their own wild game and created meals such as shrimp, fish and grits. Meat was primarily consumed on Sundays because it was considered to be a special day. Post slavery, many African-Americans in the South would enjoy hearty meals like chicken and waffles on Sundays to keep them full and satisfied throughout the day because church and many other related activities often would consume most all of their time.
Now that's food that is good for the soul.
So go give your soul a little love and get you some soul food this National Soul Food Month at Buttons.
 |
| Chef Hicks and the restaurant have also been featured on several television programs including The Food Network’s Heat Seekers and Mystery Diners. |
Website
Kamis, 20 Juni 2013
Lego! See Dallas in One Day and Win $50 with Dallas Cityscape at Galleria
To-Do Thursdays:
Looking to expose your kids to the Dallas landscape, but don't have enough time, money or patience to handle the traffic or the Texas heat? You're in luck - Galleria Dallas presents DALLAS CITYSCAPE, an engaging and fun view of Dallas created by more than 2.5 million Legos and toy pieces. (And did I mention it was all in doors, in air-conditioning and close to a huge ice rink?)
Dallas landmarks in the exhibit include:
Looking to expose your kids to the Dallas landscape, but don't have enough time, money or patience to handle the traffic or the Texas heat? You're in luck - Galleria Dallas presents DALLAS CITYSCAPE, an engaging and fun view of Dallas created by more than 2.5 million Legos and toy pieces. (And did I mention it was all in doors, in air-conditioning and close to a huge ice rink?)
 |
| Photo courtesy from DALLAS CITYSCAPE Facebook. |
Dallas landmarks in the exhibit include:
- American Airlines Center and Victory Plaza
- AT&T Performing Arts District
- Trammell Crow Center Crow Collection of Asian Art
- Hyatt Reunion Hotel
- Reunion Tower
- Union Station
- Klyde Warren Park
- Winspear Opera House
- East Dallas Community School campuses
- 15’ Galleria Dallas
To celebrate the grand opening on Saturday, June 29, DALLAS CITYSCAPE will be giving away a $50 Galleria Dallas Gift Card EVERY hour from 10 am-9 pm. You will receive your CITYSCAPE loyalty program, punch card and if you fill it up with multiple visits you will be awarded a $10 Galleria Dallas gift card.
DALLAS CITYSCAPE benefits East Dallas Community Schools, a non-profit organization that operates early childhood learning centers with programs to meet the needs of children from birth to age nine.
DALLAS CITYSCAPE at Galleria Dallas
June 29 – September 2, 2013
Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m./Sunday, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
$5 for adults & children ages 2 and up; children’s ticket includes a special prize.
You can even make a weekend of it by staying at the Westin Galleria, attached to Galleria Dallas. Check out this amazing property with my recent staycation at the Westin.
* I am part of the PR team for Galleria Dallas; therefore I am paid to promote activities happening at Galleria...aren't I lucky?*
Rabu, 19 Juni 2013
When Your Little Baby Turns into a Big Boy (Happy Birthday Jackson!)
Wow Mom Wednesday:
I would be remiss not to discuss probably the most life-changing moment in my life - the birth of my son - on his five-year-old birthday.
It's a huge milestone for our family, especially when we have had the reality that he might not have made it to this point five years ago. But thank goodness we have arrived at this moment and he is here in all his glory (including his new freckles courtesy of his mother.)
And while there are some cool moments I've been able to have in my 30+ years pre-children, it's is the unexpected, overwhelming joy my children has given me that continues to remind me what is important.
See, I wasn't one of those gals that even wanted kids. I was the girl that scowled when she had a kid bang the back of her seat on a plane and now of course, I'm the mom with the kid kicking the seat. I hated loud kids in restaurants. And messes, I deplored them.
Now you know why I really named my blog "Mama Challenge," right?
Oh how things have changed. But for the better. (Although I still don't like messes, loud kids or kicking your seat, but be reassured I have drink money ready to give you if you sit in front of us on the plane.)
So while I can still think of the life I was going to lead, it doesn't raise a candle to what my son cotinues to teach me everyday. From how to treat people, the importance of birthday parties, artistic masterpieces and even some Spanish, my kiddo is so awesome.
And I thought as the parent I was going to be the teacher... (Crazy girl.)
Recently on one of our little adventures together (even going to the grocery store is an adventure for the two of us), I couldn't make a choice about a purchase.
"Jackson, which one should we get?" I asked my son.
He gently leaned over in the cart, grasped both side of my face sweetly and slowly said, "Mama, just trust me." And then he gave me a kiss.
All I can say whomever marries this boy is going to be the second most luckiest woman in the world.
I would be remiss not to discuss probably the most life-changing moment in my life - the birth of my son - on his five-year-old birthday.
It's a huge milestone for our family, especially when we have had the reality that he might not have made it to this point five years ago. But thank goodness we have arrived at this moment and he is here in all his glory (including his new freckles courtesy of his mother.)
And while there are some cool moments I've been able to have in my 30+ years pre-children, it's is the unexpected, overwhelming joy my children has given me that continues to remind me what is important.
See, I wasn't one of those gals that even wanted kids. I was the girl that scowled when she had a kid bang the back of her seat on a plane and now of course, I'm the mom with the kid kicking the seat. I hated loud kids in restaurants. And messes, I deplored them.
Now you know why I really named my blog "Mama Challenge," right?
Oh how things have changed. But for the better. (Although I still don't like messes, loud kids or kicking your seat, but be reassured I have drink money ready to give you if you sit in front of us on the plane.)
So while I can still think of the life I was going to lead, it doesn't raise a candle to what my son cotinues to teach me everyday. From how to treat people, the importance of birthday parties, artistic masterpieces and even some Spanish, my kiddo is so awesome.
And I thought as the parent I was going to be the teacher... (Crazy girl.)
Recently on one of our little adventures together (even going to the grocery store is an adventure for the two of us), I couldn't make a choice about a purchase.
"Jackson, which one should we get?" I asked my son.
He gently leaned over in the cart, grasped both side of my face sweetly and slowly said, "Mama, just trust me." And then he gave me a kiss.
All I can say whomever marries this boy is going to be the second most luckiest woman in the world.
Happy Birthday, Jackson Benham Reo!
Selasa, 18 Juni 2013
Have a Blast This Independence Day at Horseshoe Bay Resort {Giveaway}
Travel Tuesdays:
There's something said for tradition, but there's also said for doing something different - especially when it comes to seeing and experiencing new places.
While trying to research a few quick, fun, family getaways, I was "lucky" to find Horseshoe Bay Resort in the heart of Texas Hill Country, on the shore of constant-level Lake LBJ.
Named a recipient of Trip Advisor's 2013 Certificate of Excellence, this 7,000 acre resort offers a multitude of amenities including a full-service marina, spa, tennis, golf (like serious golfing here), fun activities such as banana-boat rides on the lake and 8 dining options all in one place. Basically, this place has something for everyone for your family. (Which is great when parents are looking to enjoy their vacation alongside the kids!)
And right now, this one-of-a-kind resort is gearing up for their all-star Fourth of July weekend with their seventh annual Red, White & Blue BBQ, music, lakeside fun, land and boat parades, fire dancers. a concert by Fastlane (an Eagles Tribute Band) and amazing fireworks over the lake.
And of course, that's not all, folks! (Cue up the music!)
And of course, that's not all, folks! (Cue up the music!)
Also during the fun-filled weekend, guests will stay busy with family-friendly activities including kids’ banana boat rides, guided fishing tours on Lake LBJ, rubber ducky races, scavenger hunts and more. For a complete list of activities available during the Fourth of July weekend, and throughout the summer, check out the Horseshoe Bay Resort Summer Activity Guide.
Thinking this might be just the plan for you? Here's a great package that makes a getaway what it's supposed to be - a way to getaway that's easy to book and no planning to do!
Patriotic Fourth of July Family Package
Starting at $429, the Patriotic Fourth of July Family Package includes:
- Standard accommodations
- Daily breakfast buffet at Lantana Grill
- Seventh annual Red, White & Blue BBQ at Yacht Club or Lantana Grill on July 4
- Fireworks display over Lake LBJ on July 4
- Pool party on July 5
- A performance by Fastlane on July 6
- $100 in resort credit for two nights, $150 in resort credit for three nights
- One Patriotic Fun Pack for children ages 3-12 ($70 retail value)
- Complimentary sodas for children ages 3-12
Just use promotional code: HOL to get this special rate
Don't have time to go away for Independence Day? There are so many options for the family even without a holiday! And to make it even better, one of you will win a getaway to Horseshoe Bay when you enter this special giveaway.
So what are you waiting for? Your vacation is waiting - you just have to enter for a chance at fun and relaxation at Horseshoe Bay Resort.
200 Hi Circle North
Horseshoe Bay, Texas 78557
Website
This post is also shared on Mom2MomDFW, a part of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.com.
Jumat, 14 Juni 2013
Your Quick Guide to Father's Day
Father's Day Friday:
Rather than the normal Food Friday, we're celebrating a little something special just for Father's Day with a few posts to help you out!
What to buy for dad:
Drink Up for Dad’s Day – Father’s Day Gift Guide
What dad will do with the family (and not hate you for it):
Fly Over to LEGOLAND Discovery Center DFW for New Star Wars Exhibit
What can help him relax and enjoy:
Make Dad's Day Rock With Top 26 List of Songs From Dad Musicians Who Rock
What to make for dad:
Enjoy the Sweet Life with Quick Almond Joy Brownies #WhatsYourID
And because it's Father's Day, I just want to give a little shout out to my hubs and my dad!
Rather than the normal Food Friday, we're celebrating a little something special just for Father's Day with a few posts to help you out!
What to buy for dad:
Drink Up for Dad’s Day – Father’s Day Gift Guide
What dad will do with the family (and not hate you for it):
Fly Over to LEGOLAND Discovery Center DFW for New Star Wars Exhibit
What can help him relax and enjoy:
Make Dad's Day Rock With Top 26 List of Songs From Dad Musicians Who Rock
What to make for dad:
Enjoy the Sweet Life with Quick Almond Joy Brownies #WhatsYourID
And because it's Father's Day, I just want to give a little shout out to my hubs and my dad!
Happy Father's Day
Kamis, 13 Juni 2013
To-Do: Star Wars Miniland on Exhibit at LEGOLAND Discovery Center DFW
To-Do Thursdays:
The summer is up and running and we've taken no breaks making the most of it.
We've done Disney World already, so what could be left?
A lot and we aren't even leaving the Dallas/Fort Worth area this time!
Here's one worth putting on your summer to-do list:
Make sure you check out our experience on TodaysMama.com.
The summer is up and running and we've taken no breaks making the most of it.
We've done Disney World already, so what could be left?
A lot and we aren't even leaving the Dallas/Fort Worth area this time!
Here's one worth putting on your summer to-do list:
Make sure you check out our experience on TodaysMama.com.
Rabu, 12 Juni 2013
Enjoy the Sweet Life with Quick Almond Joy Brownies #WhatsYourID
Want-It Wednesday:
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.
The summer time brings a much-needed slower pace for moms. Well, not really, with all the activities and events planned from the moment the kids are out of school until the day they get back. However, it does give you a reason to enjoy some of the sweet things in life like brownies.
One of our family favorites, I was looking to jazz up the baked chocolate concoction with something a little more fun, flavorful AND QUICK. But it's too hot to sit in the kitchen for hours, so with the help of a brownie mix, some cupboard staples and my International Delight Almond Joy Creamer, I was able to whip up a dessert like our family favorite 7-Layered Bars, but this time was even better with Almond Joy Brownies.
QUICK ALMOND JOY BROWNIES
Ingredients:
1 Box of Fudge Brownie Mix (I used Betty Crocker)
1 cup almonds (I used slivered, but you can use chopped)
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup flaked coconut
1 cup of International Delight Almond Joy Creamer
Directions:
Make brownies as instructed on the box, but opt for the cake-like brownie recipe.)
Bake for about 15-18 minutes until the brownies are set, but not necessarily cooked.
Take the brownies out of the oven and begin layering. First with the coconut and then the chocolate chips.
Next add the creamer over the brownie mixture.
Last add the almonds.
Bake the brownies for 20-25 minutes at the same temperature or until the toppings look browned.
Take out of the oven and allow to cool before cutting.
TIP:
Unlike chocolate chip cookies, these brownies get even better after some time out of the oven. We ended up putting these in the refrigerator for a day and when they came out again, I couldn't get everyone to stop eating them. The added coolness gave it a little crunch and with the heat of summer, it was nice to bite into a cool brownie. Trust me, it's worth the wait!
What's Your ID? International Delight is looking for their most passionate flavor fans. Put your ID on the map to enter to win a Magical Trip, play games and discover more unexpected delight. Share your ID flavor at http://whatsyourid.com.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.
One of our family favorites, I was looking to jazz up the baked chocolate concoction with something a little more fun, flavorful AND QUICK. But it's too hot to sit in the kitchen for hours, so with the help of a brownie mix, some cupboard staples and my International Delight Almond Joy Creamer, I was able to whip up a dessert like our family favorite 7-Layered Bars, but this time was even better with Almond Joy Brownies.
QUICK ALMOND JOY BROWNIES
Ingredients:
1 Box of Fudge Brownie Mix (I used Betty Crocker)
1 cup almonds (I used slivered, but you can use chopped)
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup flaked coconut
1 cup of International Delight Almond Joy Creamer
Directions:
Make brownies as instructed on the box, but opt for the cake-like brownie recipe.)
Bake for about 15-18 minutes until the brownies are set, but not necessarily cooked.
Take the brownies out of the oven and begin layering. First with the coconut and then the chocolate chips.
Next add the creamer over the brownie mixture.
Last add the almonds.
Bake the brownies for 20-25 minutes at the same temperature or until the toppings look browned.
Take out of the oven and allow to cool before cutting.
TIP:
Unlike chocolate chip cookies, these brownies get even better after some time out of the oven. We ended up putting these in the refrigerator for a day and when they came out again, I couldn't get everyone to stop eating them. The added coolness gave it a little crunch and with the heat of summer, it was nice to bite into a cool brownie. Trust me, it's worth the wait!
What's Your ID? International Delight is looking for their most passionate flavor fans. Put your ID on the map to enter to win a Magical Trip, play games and discover more unexpected delight. Share your ID flavor at http://whatsyourid.com.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.
Selasa, 11 Juni 2013
Travel Tuesdays: The Vacation Before the Vacation at The Westin Galleria Dallas
Travel Tuesdays:
Sponsored: I received a comped a hotel room from The Westin Galleria Dallas for purposes of this review. However, the comments provided here are all my own.
Yep, just in time for summer, I've some tips and recommendations for some great ways to enjoy traveling with and without the family!
But this time it isn't a family trip so I'm not talking my favorite the Gaylord Texan or Great Wolf Lodge. For this "trip" I just needed to get away with my honey - a little change of scenery can do a lot to make things feel like a getaway. So right before our BIG family vacation, we opted for an overnight at The Westin Galleria Dallas.
I'm already a fan of the Westin brand; being that some of my favorite moments in life: my first skiing adventure in Whistler and my wedding in Puerto Vallarta, were both spent at Westin properties. Now I was going to apply it to my own stomping grounds in Big D.
While I could tell you about all the cool things to do around the hotel like shop to you drop at more than 200 retailers in the attached Galleria Dallas (client) or skate on one of the best rinks in the country, but honestly, this was the unplanned trip - and that was the way it was going to stay. We just needed to relax, appreciate the fact that neither of us had to clean the room and wake up without one of our two little visitors asking us to turn on Mickey Mouse or snuggle with us.
These parents needed to sleep in peace.
When we got to the hotel, we received the full Westin brand experience with the beautiful fragrance of the lobby and the warmth from the staff. We quickly were checked in and went to our Corner Room Suite. And what a room it was.
High above the traffic and construction of North Dallas was our view overlooking all of it. It was so beautiful and peaceful. For me it was nice to enjoy it for what it was rather than the work and craziness than it normally presents me. Thankfully, there was a wonderful window seat to do just that. I took a moment to just appreciate the beauty.
But curiosity had me wondering what other fun was waiting for us. Two bathrooms, two showers and the best bathtub I had seen in a long time. While I am not normally a bath taker, I could definitely be persuaded when the bathroom space looked like this. It was crisp, modern and just comfortable. Yep, this is what zen feels and looks like.
Moving on to just the aesthetics of the room, I couldn't help but also appreciate the lines and patterns in the room. It wasn't busy, but again, clean, crisp and just right for the OCD-kinda-gal I am. I couldn't keep myself from even taking photos of the carpet, tile and cabinet space.
As for the bed, they don't call it the Heavenly Bed for nuthin'. I could only wish that the bed could squeeze into my bag, along with the shampoo, lotion, etc. that I had already stuffed into my case. But at least I slept like a log and awoke the next morning by my own accord or little nudge from my kids. It was blissful.
To finish off our quick stay, we started off our full day with brunch at The Second Floor, the upscale restaurant within the hotel. In ideal brunch form, I celebrated our successful evening stay with a mimosa and lots of coffee paired with a delicious spinach omelet. For the hubs, he chowded down on a little eggs and pork belly (oh, it was good.) While the service was a little slow, I can tell you, that morning everything was in the right tempo, so it worked with the pace - at least for while I was the hotel.
As I just perused the lunch/dinner menu, I was sad our stay would come to a close, but knew I'd be back for more. Not necessarily just for some peace and quiet, but perhaps a little pool time, a massage, a cheese plate and maybe a little retail therapy. (Right?)
Looking for a little more action? Try out the New Balance work out plan that allows you to "borrow" shoes and workout gear for only $5 so you have more room for new purchases.
Or maybe just a little more of nothing. Sometimes that's better than anything.
As you can tell I'm a huge fan of the hotel experience and I've been fortunate to enjoy a lot of nice hotels. The Westin Galleria Dallas is certainly one of them.
Sponsored: I received a comped a hotel room from The Westin Galleria Dallas for purposes of this review. However, the comments provided here are all my own.
Yep, just in time for summer, I've some tips and recommendations for some great ways to enjoy traveling with and without the family!
But this time it isn't a family trip so I'm not talking my favorite the Gaylord Texan or Great Wolf Lodge. For this "trip" I just needed to get away with my honey - a little change of scenery can do a lot to make things feel like a getaway. So right before our BIG family vacation, we opted for an overnight at The Westin Galleria Dallas.
I'm already a fan of the Westin brand; being that some of my favorite moments in life: my first skiing adventure in Whistler and my wedding in Puerto Vallarta, were both spent at Westin properties. Now I was going to apply it to my own stomping grounds in Big D.
While I could tell you about all the cool things to do around the hotel like shop to you drop at more than 200 retailers in the attached Galleria Dallas (client) or skate on one of the best rinks in the country, but honestly, this was the unplanned trip - and that was the way it was going to stay. We just needed to relax, appreciate the fact that neither of us had to clean the room and wake up without one of our two little visitors asking us to turn on Mickey Mouse or snuggle with us.
These parents needed to sleep in peace.
When we got to the hotel, we received the full Westin brand experience with the beautiful fragrance of the lobby and the warmth from the staff. We quickly were checked in and went to our Corner Room Suite. And what a room it was.
High above the traffic and construction of North Dallas was our view overlooking all of it. It was so beautiful and peaceful. For me it was nice to enjoy it for what it was rather than the work and craziness than it normally presents me. Thankfully, there was a wonderful window seat to do just that. I took a moment to just appreciate the beauty.
But curiosity had me wondering what other fun was waiting for us. Two bathrooms, two showers and the best bathtub I had seen in a long time. While I am not normally a bath taker, I could definitely be persuaded when the bathroom space looked like this. It was crisp, modern and just comfortable. Yep, this is what zen feels and looks like.
Moving on to just the aesthetics of the room, I couldn't help but also appreciate the lines and patterns in the room. It wasn't busy, but again, clean, crisp and just right for the OCD-kinda-gal I am. I couldn't keep myself from even taking photos of the carpet, tile and cabinet space.
As for the bed, they don't call it the Heavenly Bed for nuthin'. I could only wish that the bed could squeeze into my bag, along with the shampoo, lotion, etc. that I had already stuffed into my case. But at least I slept like a log and awoke the next morning by my own accord or little nudge from my kids. It was blissful.
To finish off our quick stay, we started off our full day with brunch at The Second Floor, the upscale restaurant within the hotel. In ideal brunch form, I celebrated our successful evening stay with a mimosa and lots of coffee paired with a delicious spinach omelet. For the hubs, he chowded down on a little eggs and pork belly (oh, it was good.) While the service was a little slow, I can tell you, that morning everything was in the right tempo, so it worked with the pace - at least for while I was the hotel.
As I just perused the lunch/dinner menu, I was sad our stay would come to a close, but knew I'd be back for more. Not necessarily just for some peace and quiet, but perhaps a little pool time, a massage, a cheese plate and maybe a little retail therapy. (Right?)
Looking for a little more action? Try out the New Balance work out plan that allows you to "borrow" shoes and workout gear for only $5 so you have more room for new purchases.
Or maybe just a little more of nothing. Sometimes that's better than anything.
As you can tell I'm a huge fan of the hotel experience and I've been fortunate to enjoy a lot of nice hotels. The Westin Galleria Dallas is certainly one of them.
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