Free Fun at the Fairview Splash Park

May 20, 2013 By Leave a Comment

I’m not sure how I’ve missed this hidden little gem, but there is an awesome splash park tucked away at the back of The Village at Fairview. Thank goodness, some of our playgroup friends introduced us to this free fun last Friday!
 
When we got there, the boys were a little timid to head for the water. I’m blaming it on the fact that this was our very first water activity for the “summer” season. To be honest, I had to borrow a swim diaper since I’m totally unprepared for all of our water activities that are about to begin. :) Plus, I keep wishing Riverson will just magically wake up and decide to start using the potty. Wishful thinking, I know. ;)
 
fairview splash park

 

They both quickly fell in love with the random fountains shooting water in to the air.

 

fairview splash pad

 

I loved how Riverson never failed to be surprised when the water shot in to the air.

 

fairview splash park

 

And every time, he got just as excited as the time before.

 

fairview splash park

 

I loved seeing this happiness on his face. Knowing how much he loves the water, he was in heaven here.

 

 

fairview splash park

 

They could have played here for hours and it was so nice for me to be able to sit on the side with my friends and catch up on what’s going on in our lives.
 
fairview splash park

 

I DID learn a few things that are good to know for the next time we make our way back there.
 
For starters, it’s good to get there early because there are a few tables with an umbrella covering them, but they fill up fast and from what I’ve heard, if you don’t get there by 10:30 in the morning, they’ll more than likely be taken.
 
Of course, if shade isn’t an issue for you, there is plenty of space to spread out a blanket and have a little picnic setting.
 
fairview splash park

 

Next time we come, I’m also planning to bring a water toy or two. The boys seemed to be jealous of everyone who had their own toy.
 
It’s so nice to find free activities around Dallas where I can take them to get worn out and be ready for an awesome nap by the time we’re finished. Those are always my favorite acitivities! :)

 

Filed Under: DFW

Getting Fitness Crazy with the Old Navy Pretty Muddy Mud Run

May 17, 2013 By 1 Comment

This is a sponsored post as part of the Pretty Muddy Mud Run and Old Navy Active Gear wear.
 
If you’ve been keeping up with my latest fitness updates, you know I’m smack dab in the middle of a serious workout and diet plan and I’m loving every minute of it. Earlier this week, I shared a couple of pictures that made me cringe to put up there, but one of them is a girl from my past, a girl I hope I never see again. It’s a much larger ME!
 
I’m working out in my living room 5 times a week and walking around with sore muscles the rest of the time. For some reason, it totally motivates me when I feel that pain. It helps me know those workouts really are kicking my body in to gear!
 
And speaking of kicking my body in to gear, I’m about to do something way out of my comfort zone two weeks from tomorrow. I will be participating in the Pretty Muddy Mud Run in Dallas!

pretty muddy

Pretty Muddy Mud Run

The Pretty Muddy Mud Run, sponsored by Old Navy, will take place on June 1st, at Skyline Ranch, which is located at 1801 E Wheatland Rd Dallas, TX 75241.
 
This mud run is a 5k adventurous obstacle course mud run for any woman who wants to get outside, spend time with friends and have fun getting a little dirty. And most importantly, it’s just for women! Sorry boys!
 
But, they wouldn’t care about the post-race Old Navy fashion show as much as we do, anyway. That’s right, Old Navy will be showcasing their latest active wear fashion trends! Here’s a few things to know about the Old Navy Activewear line:

  • Old Navy Active collection offers an assortment of styles and colors at an affordable price.
  • Old Navy Compression Collection features everything from solid color leggings to color block capris, sports bras, tanks, shorts and jackets, and offers performance fit for added support and a slimmer silhouette.
  • Designed with the highest level of technology, active items are made with cotton, spandex and GoDry Fabric, which quickly wicks away moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable.
  • Flat lock seams and tag-free labels prevent chafing to ensure you stay focused on fitness.
  • Old Navy Active pants offer fuss-free storage of keys, iPods or any other workout essentials.

Within the next couple of weeks, I’ll be posting a review of an Old Navy Active Gear outfit, as well as providing you with a little more race information.
 
Until then, why don’t you sign up to run, too!! I’m getting way out of my comfort zone on this one but I couldn’t be more excited!!

Filed Under: DFW, Fitness Tagged With: , ,

Allstate Foundation is Teaching Teens & Parents Driver Safety

May 17, 2013 By Leave a Comment


 

Now that our oldest is almost 14 and a half, we are so close to being forced to let her drive. It scares me to death to think of everything that will be involved in taking this HUGE step for our family. Not only that, but the girl is like any typical teenager in that she’s attached to her cell phone, and THAT scares me more than anything! Fortunately she’s very responsible and I know she’ll be ready when the time comes, but it’s still so hard to believe it’s actually time for this.

I’m so thankful for an upcoming opportunity for us to learn a little more about the best ways to teach her to be a successful driver.

 

If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, I’d love you to join me at the Drive it Home Show, presented by the National Safety Council and Allstate Foundation, Thursday, May 23, If you have tween, teen, or are concerned about teen driving safety, it will be an informative (and entertaining!) event. Please feel free to share this post with anyone who might like to attend. Details are as follows:

 

What: Drive it Home Show, presented by the National Safety Council and Allstate Foundation

When: Thursday, May 23 from 7pm – 8:15pm

Where: Plano Courtyard Theater (1509 H Ave, Plano, TX 75074)

Price: FREE!; no tickets required

 

BONUS: You can enter in the sweepstakes at the event for a chance to win gas cards and a brand new car!


If you’d like to attend, click here to register and when checking in, let them know that Clever Girls Collective sent you. Hope to see you there!

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Filed Under: DFW Tagged With:

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

May 16, 2013 By Leave a Comment

I attended my very first musical not too long ago when Jeff and I had a date night to see Mary Poppins. And, until then, I really had no idea what I was missing out on.
 
Theatre was one of my favorite classes in high school, so I feel a little disappointed that I’ve waited this long in my life to enjoy such amazing productions. I’ve never been to New York to see a show on Broadway and with three kids under 4, it’s not really on the short list of things that must happen in the near future. Maybe in a few years, though.
 
But, if I can’t go to New York to see a show on Broadway, I’m more than excited to catch the latest musical right here in Dallas, in Fair Park, actually. Thanks to Dallas Summer Musicals, we still get the opportunity to see amazing shows!
 
On stage now, is Priscilla, Queen of the Desert!

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

 
 
priscilla queen of the desert   This is the perfect opportunity to grab a couple of girlfriends, get all fixed up, and head out for a great show together!
 
This show tells the story of three friends on the roadtrip of a lifetime, who hop on a battered bus in search of love and friendship in the Australian outback and end up finding more than they could have ever imagined. It’s an uplifting story with a great message about standing up for your friends and being true to yourself!
 
Featuring more than 500 dazzling, award-winning costumes, Priscilla features a hit parade of dance-floor favorites like “It’s Raining Men,” “Finally,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” and “I Will Survive.”
 
Amazing costumes, fun music, and an uplifting story — it sounds like a show you just can’t miss! I know I can’t wait to see it!
 
priscilla queen of the desert
 
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert will be showing at Music Hall at Fair Park until May 26th. You can read more about the show and  purchase your tickets here. Please note: This show is not recommended for children, as some topics are not appropriate.

Filed Under: DFW Tagged With:

Taste Addison Ticket Giveaway

May 15, 2013 By 15 Comments

This weekend is the annual Taste Addison, in Addison, of course, which will offer a tasty weekend blend of food, music, and family fun. I’m so excited about taking my family to experience it all for ourselves. I’m actually not sure what I’m more excited about? The food! No, the music! Or maybe it’s the carnival rides!
 

Taste Addison

Taste Addison

Photo Credit: Town of Addison


 
If you’ve lived in DFW for a while, you’ve probably heard of Taste Addison because it’s been a popular yearly event for as long as I can remember. With over 70 restaurants involved in offering generous sized samples at reduced prices and national breakout musical entertainment like Reckless Kelly and Turnpike Troubadours, it’s sure to be an amazing 3 day event!
 
And let’s not forget everything for the kids! Taste Addison will be offering carnival rides, midway games, award winning children’s entertainment, crafts, and more!
 
Maybe you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to participate in the Tasty Run 5K & Fun Run, taking place on Saturday. Bite sized samples from Addison restaurants will keep runners satisfied and entertained as they race through the streets of Addison. How fun does THAT sound?!?!
 
And for the extra adventurous, how about the Blazin’ Challenge! Presented by Buffalo Wild Wings, “It’s like walking on hot coals, except you eat them!” You can sign up at the Buffalo Wild Wings booth at Taste Addison to participate in the hottest challenge around. 12 wings, 6 minutes. All I can think is, “Ouch!”
 

Taste Addison Specifics

May 17-19, 2013
 
Addison Circle Park
 
Friday, May 17, 2013—————6:00pm to Midnight————–$15

Saturday, May 18, 2013————Noon to Midnight—————–$5 before 5:00pm; $15 after 5:00pm

Sunday, May 19, 2013————–Noon to 5:00pm——————-$5
 
Children under the age of 4 are free
 
You can also buy one ticket and get your second ticket for 25% off at any DFW Albertsons.

What to Bring and Not Bring

Bring:

  • Cash/ATM card {There will be 7 ATMs on site.}
  • Strollers
  • Your Appetite

Don’t Bring:

  • A lawn chair
  • Your Pets
  • A full belly

Giveaway

You have the chance to win 4 free tickets to Taste Addison and a restaurant gift card to continue tasting Addison even after the weekend festivities.
 
All you need to do is leave a comment on this post telling me what you’re most excited to experience at Taste Addison.
 
This is a FLASH GIVEAWAY and will end at 2:00pm tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon.

Disclosure: I was given the same prize pack as I am giving away, in exchange for promotion of Taste Addison.

This giveaway is now closed and the winner has been notified and confirmed. Thank you so much to those of you who entered!

Filed Under: DFW Tagged With:

Revolt Now Fitness – What I Never Want to See Again

May 15, 2013 By 7 Comments

At the beginning of my adult life, I had a weight problem.
 
I think it all started the summer before my senior year when I started babysitting two little girls. I just ate and ate and ate. Then I went to college, where I played volleyball, thankfully, because I was still eating and eating, but the workouts must have been offsetting my caloric intake somewhat.
 
I still gained weight but it just wasn’t as much. It wasn’t until I went and spent 4 amazing months in Costa Rica on a study abroad trip that I really fell off the wagon. I clearly didn’t have a care in the world and definitely not one that involved weight gain. I packed on the pounds. At least 25.

revolt fitness

If you only knew how much it pains me to show you this picture. Let’s just say I weighed more then than I did at any point in all three of my pregnancies. Not a proud moment in my life, that’s for sure.
 
But things are different now, and I look completely different, thank goodness. Pregnancy was good to me and breastfeeding was even better for me. Aside from the way breastfeeding left “the girls,” my body did well and I dropped all of my baby weight, and then some.
 
I now weigh 20 pounds less than I did when I got pregnant with my first baby. When people ask me how I did it, I can only tell them breastfeeding was the best thing that ever happened to me. :)
 
So now that I’m ok with my weight, I’m actually still not super happy with the way my body looks.
 
This is me before starting Revolt and while I thought for sure I wasn’t showing anyone these pictures, they don’t look so bad now that I’ve looked at the one above. ;)

revolt fitness

Week 1, before starting Revolt Now Fitness

But, I’m not strong. I’ve lost so much muscle tone with having 3 pregnancies in 4 years.
 
Now that my body belongs to me again and not one of my babies, I want that strong girl back.

Revolt Now Fitness

And, that’s why I’m so glad Revolt Fitness is in my “kitchen” and “living room” everyday.
 
I say “kitchen” because that’s where I’m whipping up foods like this for all of my meals.

revolt now fitness

Yes, I got to eat all of that for my meal! It included a whole grapefruit, bowl of oatmeal, and 4 spinach quiche bites, which are much more than “bites.” :)
 
I say “living room” because that’s where I’m doing all of my workouts, with my little ones watching or doing their version of exercises with me. I set my laptop on the couch and go to work right there in the middle of the living room. I never even have to leave the house to workout and I LOVE that!!
 
The best part is, I don’t have to shop for gyms based on their available childcare. Because let’s be honest, I’d probably just never go if it involved getting all three of mine ready for someone else to watch them. Not sure why that stresses me so much, but it does.

Am I Getting Results?

This is what you really wanted to know!
 
I’ve lost 4.5 pounds since I started 2 weeks ago and I’ve lost 1.5 inches total.
 
Is it a lot? No. But, I’m ok with that.
 
I’m enjoying the program and really, we’ve just gotten started.
 
I love the way the diet changes every week and the workouts are fun, yet super challenging for me.
 
I never want to see the girl you see in the first picture again and I’ve got Revolt Now Fitness to make sure of that.
 
If you’re interested in trying Revolt for yourself, this is my affiliate link, which just means I get a little bit of a kickback if you choose to sign up for the program. Who doesn’t love a little reward for sharing something they’re loving?!?
 
I’ll be back next week, where I can hopefully show you a little more about the workouts, as well as an update, of course!

 

 

Filed Under: Fitness Tagged With:

DIY Personalized Kitchen iPad Display

May 14, 2013 By 1 Comment

I like to try new recipes a lot and while I’m cooking, I’m constantly referring back to them on my iPad. That also means I’m constantly trying to figure out where to set my iPad in the midst of the cooking mess, while still protecting it from any food getting on it. That’s why I was so excited when this little iPad display came to be!
 
ipad display
 
It keeps it away from the food and off of the counter, where the wetness usually collects.

Kitchen iPad Display Materials

  • 1 x 4, cut in to 3 11″ pieces {Did you know Home Depot and Lowe’s will cut your wood for you FOR FREE!!}
  • 1 x 2 Furring Strip cut to 8″ long
  • Small dowel rod cut to 5″ long
  • Kreg Jig
  • Kreg Jig screws
  • Wood Glue
  • Spray paint {Color of your choice!}
  • Wood Glaze {I used Valspar.}
  • Silhouette
  • Vinyl
  • Craft paint
  • Sandpaper (just to rough up the edges)

 

How to Make Your Kitchen iPad Display

1. Take a minute to compare your three 1x4s and make sure they are all the same length. If not, do some sanding before you get started.
 
ipad display
 
2. Using your Kreg Jig, cut pocket holes in your two outside boards. You will want the holes to face toward the middle. And then, using your wood glue, put a strip of glue between each piece. Give it time to let the glue set. Once the glue has set, use your drill and Kreg Jig attachment to drill your screws in. This will make everything EXTRA secure!
 
ipad display
 
3. Using your wood glue, attach your furring strip about two inches above the bottom (use your best judgement), to give your iPad a shelf to sit on. Make sure you give this plenty of drying time.
 
4. Using a wood drill bit that’s the same size as or bigger than your dowel rod, drill about 1/2 inch in to your wood, on the back of your display. Using your wood glue, secure the dowel rod into the hole. Give it plenty of drying time, again.
 
5. Take your preferred color of spray paint and give it a good all over spray. Make sure to get the front, as well as the back. You’ll need to do at least 2 or 3 coats. Allow for drying time between coats.
 
ipad display
 
ipad display
 
6. The next thing I did was to take my wood glaze and brush it all over my project with a foam brush. I let it sit for just a few minutes and then I used a t shirt to rub it all off. It helps to get that dark look in the cracks and crevices. I love the contrast it adds.
 
ipad display
 

7. Now’s the time to take your sandpaper and rough up the edges a little bit.
 
8. I used my Silhouette software to create this R, for “Roubinek” of course. ;) Then I cut it out on vinyl.
 
ipad display
 

9. Take the ouline of the R and apply it to your project, making sure to give it lots of pressure, especially around the edges where the paint can bleed.
 
ipad display
 

10. With your craft paint, fill in your letter and let it dry. You’ll probably need to do at least two coats to get a good cover. I think I did three.
 
11. Then, find the perfect spot in your kitchen and set it up, with your iPad.
 
ipad display
 

But, if you’re like me, you’ll enjoy looking at it even without your iPad.
 
ipad display

 

Are you a Kreg Jig fan? It was really nice to dust mine off and get back after it. I haven’t done a good DIY since Brantley was born, so it was definitely TIME! I’m on the hunt for my next project now. :)

Filed Under: Projects Tagged With: , ,

Shady’s Burger Joint

May 13, 2013 By 4 Comments

We already feel super spoiled when it comes to everything our neighborhood has to offer us. We are very connected and we LOVE the small town feel it gives us. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, a few neighborhood guys came up with the idea to add a family friendly restaurant, called Shady’s Burger Joint, and we couldn’t be more excited about it!

shadys burger joint

This past weekend, Jeff and I got really brave. We took all three of our littles out to dinner at Shady’s.

 

It was my cheat day from my Revolt Fitness plan and this was all I could think of: “Go big or go home!” Going big meant I needed a big burger!

 

We started our meal with some fried pickles, which we practically had to fight to get any before Riverson, who’s 2, finished them for us.

shadys burger joint

Our burgers were delivered shortly after and oh my goodness did they look incredible.

 

Jeff ordered the Blue Buffalo, which includes Shady’s Buffalo Sauce, blue cheese, bacon, lettuce, and tomato.

shady's burger joint
 
My burger was the El Shady. It was UH-mazing! For me, the best part about it is the fried egg on top, but it also comes with chorizo, cheddar cheese, and grilled jalapeños.
 
shadys burger joint
 
It’s massive, and so not part of my fitness plan, but what the heck. It was my cheat day! ;)
 
Our boys had the kids chicken strips with french fries and a cookie.
 
Just a little tip for my mom friends: Grab that cookie from their tray and hide it before your waiter has a chance to put the tray on the table. It will save a lot of headache if your kids are like mine and dream about sugar constantly. :)
 
Speaking of moms, or ladies in general, they told us they’re working on a skinny margarita to provide on their menu! Woohoo!
 
Not only that, but they are starting to offer live music every 2nd Thursday of the month!
 
I just love the family friendly feeling we get when we’re there and it’s an added bonus that we usually see someone we know.
 
With the outside patio and delicious food to offer, we might have found a restaurant where we can take our 2 and 3 year old on a regular basis. There’s just something about being outside that can make kids pretty happy and if that’s during dinner, I call that a win in Mommy’s book. :)
 
shadys burger joint

 

shadys burger joint

The best part about it all? We don’t even have to leave our neighborhood! So if you’re looking for a family friendly restaurant in the North Dallas area, Shady’s is the place to go!
 
Shady’s is located in Richardson, Texas, just south of George Bush Turnpike. Take a look at their website to learn a little more. Like Shady’s Burger Joint on Facebook and follow them on Twitter, too.
 
Disclaimer: I wasn’t paid to talk about Shady’s Burger Joint or given free food. We’re just that crazy about it and I love seeing locally owned restaurants succeed!

Filed Under: DFW Tagged With: ,

Kiss Lactose Intolerance Goodbye #Lactaid {Giveaway}

May 10, 2013 By 12 Comments

This is a sponsored campaign from The Motherhood. However, all opinions are my own. 

 

I’ve always been a huge fan of milk. Huge. Actually, when I know I get to eat dinner by myself at home, the first thing I want to eat is a bowl of cereal. But, in our family of seven, three have a lactose intolerance. Because of that, I’ve tried to figure out many ways our family can enjoy milk without having to worry about upset tummies.

What is Lactose Intolerance?

  • Most people produce a natural enzyme, lactase, which breaks down lactose (sugar in milk). The amount of lactase your body produces will determine how much lactose can be broken down.
  • Everyone has different levels of lactose intolerance and it is also common for it to be progressive. This means many people develop an intolerance later in life.

When I heard about LACTAID® products and had the opportunity to attend a webinar led by their celebrity chef brand spokesperson, Melissa d’ Arabian, I was all ears. Anything I can do to help my family enjoy more foods is always intriguing to me. I learned some really useful information, too! Take a look!

lactose intolerance

Photo credit: Lactaid.com

What is LACTAID®?

  • LACTAID® Products can help people who have a lactose intolerance enjoy dairy products without stomach discomfort.
  • LACTAID® provides the lactase that the body can’t produce enough of, which will help you break down lactose. It also gives it a slightly sweeter taste.
  • LACTAID® Dairy Products are 100% real dairy, but have the natural yeast-derived enzyme added called lactase.
  • LACTAID® is the #1 lactose-free dairy brand in the nation.

Tips for Eating with Lactose Intolerance

  • Eating lactose with other food will help you digest it more easily. Consuming it on an empty stomach only means you’ll be more prone not to tolerate it.
  • Many lactose intolerant people find that yogurt doesn’t bother them. {Yay! At least there’s something you won’t have to worry about!} Yogurt has live and active cultures that help digest the lactose. Greek yogurt even has double the protein and less carbs, which means less lactose and easier to digest.
  • Rule of thumb for eating cheese: the harder the cheese, the less whey in it, which means less lactose. Always choose aged cheeses since they are lower in lactose. And, when introducing these aged cheeses back into your family’s diet, do so in small amounts to see how much they can tolerate it.

Later this summer, I’ll be trying out a new recipe using LACTAID® to share with you and I can’t wait to see how my family likes it! Until then, I’d love to give you the opportunity to try out LACTAID@ for yourself.
 
Giveaway: Leave a comment on this post to win a coupon for a free LACTAID product!
 
This giveaway will end Tuesday, May 21st, at 11:59 pm.
 
Have you ever used LACTAID® products? I’d love to hear what you think!

Filed Under: Food

Getting Fit with Revolt

May 7, 2013 By 3 Comments

It’s May, which means summer is right around the corner. Summer also means bathing suit season and I’m not exactly looking forward to that. But, when Revolt contacted me a few months ago and asked me if I’d take part in their program and blog about it, I thought, “Sure, what have I got to lose? Well, other than pounds and inches, of course!” ;)

revolt

What IS Revolt Fitness?

Revolt is a 12 week at home fitness program made up of three components. The first is the 6 week meal plan that tells you exactly what and how much to eat at every meal. It makes it easy to prepare all of your meals ahead for the entire week, so you can just grab and go, as needed. The second component includes the online videos. They are easily accessed from any device, including your iPhone, iPad, computer, etc. The final component is the online support group you will find on Facebook. It’s made up of a whole lot of cheerleaders, who will pick you up and motivate you when the last thing you want to do is exercise.

What Do I Love About It?

I can do it all at home! The exercise videos are all online and it’s easy to prop my laptop up wherever I need it and go to work. I’ve even turned on a movie for the boys, in the same room. I can get my workout done in 30 minutes or less, and I’m left feeling the burn for the rest of the day.
 
And how could I forget the food. There’s so much food to eat!! We eat 6 meals and it’s usually about every 2 hours. I’m never hungry.
 
The best part is I don’t have to buy any special food from a company, and the meal plans are practically spoon fed to us. I know exactly how much to eat of each food.

What Keeps Me Motivated?

My boys. They love to watch me “essercize” and even try to do some of it with me. One day last week, we were all three laying on the ground doing a leg exercise. I could barely finish the set because I was laughing at them counting with me, with their legs in the air.
 
They encourage me and keep me from wanting to quit, right in the middle, when my muscles start to burn and my legs get shaky.
 
And of course, the scale is a little motivating, too! I lost 4 pounds last week while following the detox meal plan. I can NOT complain about that!
 
I’ll be keeping you updated weekly on my progress and I might even share my before pictures with you before too long. Just thinking about that is a little scary. :)

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