Arlington for the Holidays 2022

The EA crew has been joyously making the rounds in DFW to check out all of the holiday happenings throughout the metroplex. From Radiance in Frisco (use code magic for 15% off) to ICE at the Gaylord Texan (code Arlington will save you 50% on select dates), we have been happily hitting all the holiday highlights to let our readers and followers know where to go and what to see this holiday season.

Though there are almost too many great events to name, we highly recommend checking out Cirque de Soleil's Twas the Night Before and also Dallas Zoo's Zoo Lights, two of our favorite activities so far. Really, though, all of these events will leave you feeling all sparkly and shiny and ready for Santa to come down the chimney. Check out my Instagram, though, if you aren't sure which event you should spend your hard-earned money on.

We love the holidays! 

That said, there is no reason you need to leave Arlington to soak up holiday cheer. There is so much to do around town these final few weekends before Christmas arrives. If you want all the holiday cheer with none of the drive time, check out these awesome area events (and if I've missed any, please email me at everythingarlingtontx@gmail.com- I'm just a one-woman show after all!).

Holiday Happenings in Arlington

Ongoing opportunities for holiday cheer

Campo Verde- Say whatever you want to about this legendary local restaurant (the cheese is neon, isn't it?), but it is a fun spot for kids (of all ages!) to snap some great photos, spend time with loved ones and gobble up some food. Try not to smile when your kids ooh and aah at everything on the walls.

Decorator's Warehouse- This spot calls itself the number one Christmas store in Texas, and if you've never been, you are missing out! Buy all the holiday trimmings you could possibly want, grab a drink or piece of pie from Dasher's Pie Co. or just go and take some adorable photos. This spot is truly a Christmas wonderland.

Texas Christkindl Market- Christkindl Market is back at Globe Life Field and I am here for it! My mom and I have gone every year it's been open since she moved here in 2015 and we have loved the experience. I spent time earlier this year in Germany and can't wait to check out the market this year. Stay tuned for my IG and Facebook Reels!

The Light Park- If you haven't seen my Facebook Reel about The Light Park, go check it out. This drive-through experience, located in Hurricane Harbor's parking lot, is 30 minutes of dancing holiday lights set to music on your car radio. Grab some hot cocoa and Christmas cookies, cram the car full of kids and soak up some Christmas family (or friend) time without leaving the car!

Six Flags Holidays in the Park- I love Six Flags this time of year. I will take a hard pass on all those rides in the middle of the summer when I can't stop sweating, but in the cold weather? Yes please! Sip hot cocoa, listen to festive music and just enjoy the rides when you aren't sweating through your clothing. Don't forget to stop and make s'mores! It would be real toss up for me if you were to make me decide if I liked Six Flags better in October or December...

Junior League of Arlington's Festival of Trees- Stop by daily through 12/23 to see more than 50 beautifully decorated trees. Admission is free. Dress the kids up in cute outfits and snap some great pics. The event is indoors so no need to worry about warm clothing. Vote for your favorite tree while you are there. What a fun community event!

We love checking out holiday events. 

Free (or cheap) holiday events in Arlington with a limited run

Hometown Holidays- November 30- December 3, times vary. Mansfield. Free.- So many activities! Too many to name. Games, photos, toy drop offs and more. 

Grounds & Gold Sip & Shop- December 2, 4-7 pm. Holiday shopping and free Santa photos. 

Photos with Santa in DWG (free!)- December 4, 3-5 pm- Free photos with Santa, activities, refreshments.

Santa & The Grinch Photos at Chick Fil A on Sublett- Wednesdays, December 7, 14; Tuesday December 20th. Free. 

Photos with Santa at Alley Cats (with free cocoa and coloring!)- Saturday, December 10, 2-5 pm. 

Cocoa with Santa & Storytime with Mrs. Claus at Junior League of Arlington. Free. Saturday, December 10, 2-4 pm. 

Arlington Holiday Lights Parade- Saturday December 10th. Free. Events all day in downtown Arlington followed by the always-awesome lights parade! 

DWG Santa Parade- December 23, 4:45 pm- Watch the big guy in red in a festive parade through DWG! 

The Arlington Public Library has so many awesome upcoming events I couldn't possibly list them all. From Winter PJ Story Time to 3D Printing Holiday Ornaments (I know- so cool!), you definitely need to check out their calendar (linked above) to sign up for some of these events. 

Time for annual Santa pics! Have you gotten yours this year?

Holiday Happenings in Dallas/Fort Worth 2022

It's that time of year again... Time to start planning for the holiday season!

Dallas/Fort Worth is hosting a seemingly-endless number of awesome holiday events this year. From a walk-through light event in Frisco to North Pole-themed events in Dallas and Grapevine, DFW is your ho-ho-home for the holidays from north to south and east to west. Although 2022 won't see the return of the Magical Elf Journey that flooded Globe Life Park with holiday cheer last year, there are enough other events coming to the area that you'll have your pick of holiday happenings.

So whether you are looking for a drive through light show or an immersive experience, look no further than the DFW Metroplex for holiday cheer in 2022. Here are 10 events throughout DFW meant to get you in the holiday spirit, eggnog not included (though definitely encouraged!). 

We are ready for some holiday magic in 2022!

(Be sure you are following me on Instagram, as I will be giving away admission to a number of these events this season there- www.instagram.com/everythingarlingtontx)

11 Holiday Events in DFW for 2022

'Twas the Night Before Cirque du Soleil (Grand Prairie)- Be prepared to be amazed when the circus blows into Grand Prairie! You'll get to marvel at acrobatic feats set to the backdrop at one of the most beloved holiday tales of all time. Kids will love seeing all the high-flying magic of the circus with a fun, holiday twist!

Why we love it: This show is truly something unique and different for the holiday season. Plus, no driving all the way to Dallas or Frisco to experience wonderful holiday magic. Texas Trust Theater is an intimate setting without a bad seat in the house, so kids of all ages will get to experience the magic of the circus combined with the magic of the holiday season. 

The Light Park (Arlington)- Open evenings through January 1; Starts at $29 per vehicle

Drive through thousands of sparkling Christmas lights in Hurricane Harbor's parking lot! Listen to festive music as you relax in the comfort of your vehicle as you bask in the glow of holiday magic.

Why we love it: Low cost per person if you drive a vehicle that seats seven and fill every seat. Bring your own hot cocoa and Christmas cookies to get the most bang for your buck. 

Radiance: Frozen in Frisco (Frisco) or Radiance at the Ranch (Weatherford)- Open nightly November 18- December 31. Tickets start at $34.99 per person.

There is so much to do at Radiance that it is truly a Hallmark Holiday movie brought to life. Build snowmen from real snow, go snowtubing, see thousands of holiday lights, go ice skating, have a snowball fight and lots more.

Why we love it: This is your one-stop shop for holiday magic. There is truly so much to do you can arrive when the show opens and plan to stay until they turn off the lights!

A Christmas Carol (Granbury)- Weekends in December. General admission tickets start at $39.

Immerse yourself in a live reenactment of A Christmas Carol in a truly delightful way. Follow the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as actors bring to life the famous tale of Ebenezer Scrooge himself. Grab a cup of hot cocoa to keep you warm on this outdoor adventure.

Why we love it: This experience is truly unique. We did the Sleepy Hollow Experience last year and the kids loved it. Plus who doesn't love the story of Mr. Bah Humbug himself? 

Immersive Nutcracker Experience (Dallas)- Weekends in November and then daily in December. Tickets start at $30.

Watch the magic of the Nutcracker come alive around you as you partake this open space concept. Marvel at the images projected on warehouse walls that will illuminate the famous story of Clara and her wooden friend.

Why we love it: This event allows you to go at your own pace and experience this age-old tale in a truly 21st Century way. We have been to the Van Gogh Experience and have really enjoyed the ambiance and presentation of this immersive experience. 

The Trains at Northpark (Dallas)- Open daily November 12- January 6. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids or seniors.

For 35 years, area residents have enjoyed seeing miniature trains done up for the holidays. Enjoy winter scenes involving some of America's most iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. 

Why we love it: These trains are so fun to see up-close and personal. This event is affordable for everyone and you can go whenever you want to- no need to worry about your time of entry.

Christmas at the Gaylord Texan (Grapevine)- Open daily, November 11- January 1. All events are a la carte, prices vary per activity. Packages available. Use code ARLINGTON to receive half off your ICE admission on select dates.

Head to the Christmas Capital of Texas for a truly magical holiday experience. The Gaylord does the holidays in a big way, fitting for a Texas resort! This year sees the return of crowd favorite ICE, where visitors don parkas and meander through thousands upon thousands of pounds of ice trucked in an meticulously carved and dyed to spread holiday cheer. We can't wait to return to this fun event!

Why we love it: When you visit the Gaylord, you are truly immersed in holiday cheer. There are festive trees and sparkling lights everywhere you turn. The Gaylord has so many holiday offerings- from cookie decorating to snow tubing and everything in between- that the kids will be occupied for hours. Just be sure to bring your checkbook and remind yourself that Christmas only comes once a year! 

Snagged this photo when we saw ICE at the Gaylord in 2019. Can't wait for this event to return! 

SnowDay (Dallas)- Open November 18- January 8. Combo tickets start at $35 for kids and $48 for adults. 

Embark on a whimsical "train ride" to see Santa and get a few photos with the man in red himself before you wander through a winter wonderland. Snap fun selfies, explore festive holiday scenes and generally have a holly jolly good time.

Why we love it: You'll get some fantastic holiday photos at SnowDay. If you are after unique holiday settings for one-of-a-kind photos, this is the spot for you! Plus the Santa photos give you a more unique backdrop than you might find elsewhere. 

Dallas Zoo Lights (Dallas)- Open select nights, December 17- January 1. Tickets start at $14 for kids and $18 for adults.

Zoo Lights returns this year as a walk-through event alight with holiday merriment. See the zoo lit up at night, enjoy live entertainment, sip toasty beverages and more. There will be fun photo opps spaced throughout the zoo and a place to visit with Santa himself. 

Why we love it: Who doesn't love the zoo?! And it's so much fun at night. You may not see all the animals you would during the day, but the lights and sounds of the holiday season more than make up for it. 

Prairie Lights (Grand Prairie)- Open nightly November 24- January 1. $50 per vehicle.

Drive through thousands of holiday lights while your car radio plays the holiday music you know and love. Stop at the holiday village mid-way through your experience for eats and treats, a walk-through village and a visit with Santa himself.

Why we love it: Not only is Prairie Lights nearby in Grand Prairie, it is a relatively inexpensive event when you look at the prices of other activities around DFW. Staying in your own vehicle means you don't need to worry about bundling up if you don't want to and can bring your own snacks. If you do plan to get out at the holiday village, though, be sure and dress for the weather. We love this event!

A sweet Santa snap from Prairie Lights 2021. 

North Pole Texas (Dallas)- Open weekends starting November 24 and running through Christmas. Adults are $43, kids are $36. 

Get ready for a holly jolly Christmastime at the Hilton Anatole. Book a North Pole Texas experience and play yard games, meet with Santa, make crafts and cookies... I could go on! Kids will love running around the expansive yard partaking in reindeer games while adults can nosh on sweet bites and delicious drinks. 

Why we love this event: There is literally so much to do that you won't hear the words "I'm bored" all day. There are a lot of activities for one fee, which is nice. Plus the Hilton is simply a stunning hotel, so you couldn't ask for a better backdrop for holiday cheer. 

More activities worth checking out: Six Flags Holiday in the Park, Enchant Dallas, ChristKindl Market & Lightscape at the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. 

What event are you looking most forward to this holiday season? What events would you love giveaways for?

My cool kids hanging with Santa in the summertime. 

Fall Fun throughout DFW!

Welcome to Spooky Season, friends!

Whether you're here for the boos or the booze, you have to admit there is something about fall. It is my favorite season, hands down, and I get so giddy this time of year about all the fun things on the horizon all around Dallas/Fort Worth.

DFW is no stranger to fun-filled events all over the area that cater to young ones (and ones who are young at heart) looking for some fun. If you've followed me for a while, you know that my girls and I have done all the things. From Peppa Pig World at Grapevine Mills Mall to Mainstay Farms in Cleburne and KidZania in Frisco to the Dallas World Aquarium, we have tried all the places and given you honest reviews so you know when to hit the road and when to stay home. If there is a spot I haven't reviewed, I would love for you to let me know!

In the past, I've done a comprehensive list of all the free events in the area for Halloween. Well, friends, time just isn't on my side this year and I'm not sure if I'll get that knocked out before Halloween wraps up or not (but hey, if you want to make a few bucks and compile the list for me, send me a message!), but I wanted to round up a few great ways for you to get spooky with the kids and have a creepy good time. These events are all running weekends (and some all week, as well!) through Halloween so you can get to haunting.

If you want to celebrate spooky season, check out these events all over the area. If you want me to add one, message me!

Happy Haunting, friends!

Halloween Happenings in the DFW Area

Pumpkin Nights (Arlington)- This event is frightful fun right here in town! My husband and I are headed there this week and can't wait! It's a great event for families- it's not too spooky but it is definitely neat! So many carved pumpkins along a fun, light-filled path. This event takes place at night, you can buy adult beverages and interact with vendors and just have a blast. We brought the girls the first year and went ourselves last year. We've decided this event works better for us as a date night but recommend it for families as well! Dress in your festive favorites but be sure to mind you weather app- if you aren't dressed for the weather once the sun sets you won't have much fun!

Frights n Lights (Frisco)- Not dissimilar from Pumpkin Nights, just on the other side of DFW. We can't wait to check out this spot when we visit family in Frisco next weekend. There are mazes, games and pumpkins galore. It's a bit of a haul from Arlington, but you could certainly make a day or weekend of heading to Frisco and check out all the other fun things to do in the area, as well. We are excited about the axe throwing, hay maze, creepy crafts and more. Enter if you dare! 

The Sleepy Hollow Experience (Granbury)- Y'all... We did this last year and loved it! Embark on an evening adventure and watch as the story of Ichabod Crane comes to life in a whole new way. You'll spend an hour watching live actors retell this eerie tale like never before. Drinks are available for purchase, and the show is family-friendly, although it would also be an excellent date night! My girls still talk about this show from a year ago, so you know it must be good! 

Goblins at Giggles at the Gaylord (Grapevine)- The Gaylord is such a fun year-round destination for kids and families. We enjoy their winter activities during the holiday season each year, and this year, they have a whole slew of spooky and fun events for kids of all ages! Meet Spookley, my favorite square pumpkin from the children's book series of the same name and engage in several activities with the jolly round character. Make arts and crafts, try an escape room, trick or treat and more. There's even an interactive Ghoul School show. Cool!

Tunnel of Torment Car Wash (Arlington)- I posted about this last year and the post went crazy viral. Next to El Arroyo on Cooper is the Kwik Kar car wash that turns into a haunted car wash on the weekend nights between now and Halloween. People love to hate- so, if you went last year and didn't love it or if you think it's not scary enough, no worries. It isn't for everyone! BUT, if you have a kiddo who thinks they are ready for a haunted house but you aren't so sure, this is for you! You stay inside your car, so kids can hide in the floor board if they get too scared. Plus your car gets cleaned as you get spooked. Everybody wins, right? 

Shadow Creek Pumpkin Farm (Midlothian)- This charming spot is the stuff your autumn dreams are made of! Have fun in the shade of this spacious farm in Midlo, where you can play to your heart's content! Enjoy the petting zoo, hayrides, mazes, playground games, food and so much more. Check out the axe throwing if you dare, and don't forget your cute Halloween shirts for all the photo opps on the property! 

Stockyards Ghost Tour (Fort Worth)- This event isn't limited to the Halloween season, so, don't fret if your October is already too full to squeeze this in. But, grab a glass of wine and embark on a 90-minute tour of the Stockyards on foot to hear all about the ghosts that haunt the area! Learn about shootings, hangings and so much more. Probably not a spot to bring the kids (although teenagers could possibly handle it at your discretion), but how fun would this be as a date night or as a girl's night out? 

Zombie Safari (Forney)- Journey through open fields in north Dallas hunting zombies! How cool is that? Yes, this Zombie Safari is open to all ages, although parent discretion is advised. This is an open first-person shooter experience where you will embark on a safari to rid the area of zombies using paintball guns. My girls are dying to give this a shot. Maybe this will be the year I indulge them...

What spooky events are you most excited about? Tell me in the comments!

Happy haunting, friends! 

Have Kids, Will Travel: Quick Weekend Getaway to Lake Murray, Oklahoma

Looking for a quick, easy weekend getaway? Check out Ardmore, Oklahoma, where you can experience Turner Falls & Lake Murray and embark on a fun weekend adventure!

Ardmore, Oklahoma, is less than two hours by car from the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. It is home to Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma's largest and busiest state park, as well as Turner Falls, a popular outdoor area that offers up lots of water-based activities and excitement. 

I recently wrote an article about this sweet spot for TexsCampgrounds, and my good friend Kara took her kids here for a weekend escape with her family of four. She offered up a few tips on how to escape to Lake Murray for the weekend and make the most of your time at Lake Murray! 

Ready for fun at Lake Murray. 

Things to do at Lake Murray in Oklahoma:

Lake Murray is considered the cleanest lake in Oklahoma. The area is big for tourists because it offers a plethora of things to do with guests of all ages. Whether you are wanting a weekend retreat with your SO or a family getaway with kids, you'll find something to do that will be fun for everyone. When you plan a getaway across the Red River, the hardest part will be choosing which of the fun activities you want to check out! From horseback riding to scuba diving, Lake Murray offers a close-to-home but oh-so-fun vacation for all guests.

Good to know: There are parts of Lake Murray where you may be required to wear a life jacket. You can bring your own or borrow once you arrive. Cost is $10 per car to enter Lake Murray State Park.

- Snorkel and scuba dive: Scuba diving in Oklahoma- who knew?! Lake Murray is, according to divers, a great spot to explore underwater. Guests who wish to explore the lake from the surface will enjoy snorkeling to see all of the fish that live in this body of water. Marietta Landing at Lake Murray is the spot to start your underwater adventure.

Ready to snorkel at Lake Murray.

- Watersports: For those who want to explore the water by vessel, you can rent boats and more at Lake Murray. My girls love to ride around on jet skis, exploring the water at high speed. If kayaks and canoes are more your thing, those available to rent, too. Lake Murray Watersports also offers a play area in the water that enables you to stay close to dry land while playing on trampolines and other stationary structures (this area is $10 per hour per person). Feel free to pack your own food- you can purchase sno cones and snacks on-site but no meal-time food. 

Watersports at Lake Murray. 

- Fishing: Hoping to catch your dinner? Lake Murray is a great spot to fish for large and small-mouthed bass as well as catfish. You can fish on your own or seek out a guide or service that will help you learn the tricks of the trade. 

Turner Falls, Oklahoma

This popular area, home of Oklahoma's largest waterfall, gets busy during the warmer months, so be sure to be prepared before your trip! With a spring-fed creek with waterfalls, areas for hiking and playing and a large castle to climb up, Turner Falls, the oldest park in Oklahoma, is great for a day of fun. The park has been a recreational area since 1868 and offers waterfalls as well as two swimming holes that provide hours of fun!

Good to know: Admission, on the weekends, is $20 per adult and $16 per kid (children younger than 5 are always free). It is slightly cheaper on the weekdays. The summer season runs from May 1- September 30. It can get crowded, and daily admission tickets may sell out, so consider buying in advance online if you are able. 

The waterfall at Turner Falls.

Tips from Kara for a great day:

- Hike up the castle. It's run down but neat to see from the top! The castle is easy to access and was built in the 1930s by the Dean of Education from the University of Oklahoma.

- Turner Falls is set on three levels. All three levels offer food, fun and parking. Level two has a waterfall and level one has a large swimming area with a diving board a lifeguard. All three levels have smaller waterfalls. Anyone younger than 12 is required to wear a life jacket, which is not provided so bring your own. Also worth bringing- your own tubes to play in. You can purchase some at Turner Falls, but there are none available for rent. 

- Parking can be tricky! Kara's advice: Bring your own food and pay to park. If you park in free parking, you can take a horse-drawn carriage for $6 per person or walk. The walk isn't long, just hot. Feel free to bring your own food to avoid the lines to get food. Kara did this and recommends it! 

New Sheets for a New School Year: Organic Character Sheets from Morning Bird

 *Disclaimer: I received a free sheet set in return for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Even though it feels like we just got out of school, back-to-school supplies are popping up in stores everywhere. My girls have picked out the backpacks they want for next year, and my oldest has her eyes on a new pair of Air Forces Ones. We are talking about hair cuts and first day outfits all the while I'm trying to keep the cupboard stocked and the laundry done-ish because summer can be brutal for moms!

My youngest wants to freshen up her room a bit this summer because we don't already have enough going on, so, when I got asked to try out a sheet set from Morning Bird it seemed like now was the time. My girls have always loved themed sheets and goodies that feature characters from their favorite shows and play sets. And MorningBird.com has an amazing collection.

We picked out LOL Doll-themed sheets because my girls go gaga over LOL Dolls, constantly getting excited about exactly which doll their newest purchase might uncover. We have quite the collection of LOL Surprise Dolls in all sizes and with more accessories than I, myself, own. So we picked out a fun set of LOL Surprise sheets for my youngest's room. Other sets available from Morning Bird include Trolls, Paw Patrol, Jurassic Park, Frozen and more. With Morning Bird, you are sure to find something for everyone! 

LOL Doll sheets from Morning Bird

If you are thinking it might be time for a room refresh, for the new school year, to pick a new theme, or just because, consider starting with sheets from Morning Bird. They are cozy, cute and oh-so-fun for kids. 

Reasons to buy your kids' sheets from Morning Bird

At Morning Bird, all of your sheet sets are 100% organic! Certainly there are cheaper sheets on the market- but cheaper organic sheets? You'd be hard-pressed to find those. Why do organic sheets matter? Well, let me tell you...

Organic sheets are better for your kiddos- and the environment

1. Organic sheets are breathable! It's hot in Texas, especially in the summertime. Organic cotton sheets will keep your kids cooler so they can sleep comfortably, even when the temps soar above 100 degrees.

2. Sheets that have been certified organic are gentler on your child's skin and overall safer for little ones. Organic sheets are made using fewer synthetic ingredients that could potentially irritate their skin or bother them long-term. 

3. Organic cotton is better for the environment. It is grow using less pesticides, which means less chemicals seep into Mother Earth.

Sheets from Morning Bird are just simply adorable!

What kiddo doesn't want to cozy up in sheets featuring their favorite characters? Morning Bird has multiple character sets for you to choose from, so you can find something for every kiddo.

- Trolls

- Frozen 2

- Paw Patrol

- Jurassic Park

- Hot Wheels

- Batman

- My Little Pony

- Ryan's World

- LOL Surprise

Morning Bird has character pillows, duvet covers, soft throws, sheet sets and more featuring your child's favorite characters. So you can find an entire matching set from the comfort of your couch. Your child will thank you!

A girl and her (LOL) dolls. 

These sheets are cozy and comfy.

My youngest has been sleeping in her sheets for more than a week now and gives them rave reviews. It can get hot in her second-floor bedroom, and she's a hot-natured little kiddo, but her LOL Surprise sheets from Morning Bird are keeping her cool and comfortable despite the summer heat. The sheet are super easy to wash in the washing machine, and we love spraying them with a lavender spray for sweet dreams every night at bedtime. Now she's trying to convince me to repaint her walls to better match her duvet cover...

If you are on the market for new sheets this summer, this next school year, or at any point for your little ones, shop at MorningBird.com. The organic, themed sheets are a fun treat for your kiddos. Which character set is your child eyeing?

Summer Reading Programs 2022: Kids' Reading Programs near Arlington, Texas

Summer break is (practically) here!

Time for summer vacations, lazy days by the pool, day and overnight camps and just general relaxing and thinking about anything except school.

Buuuuut (my kids are going "Mom, don't even talk about learning" as I type this), if you are like me, you want your kids to do something, anything, that resembles learning over the summer.

Reading is the perfect compromise. It's educational and fun and something kids of all ages can do, most of them without parental guidance. Books can be borrowed for free from local libraries or found in Little Free Libraries all over Texas. Kids can find a genre or an author that they love and just dive in.

This kid loves the Whatever After series!

Reading is good for kids (and adults!) for a number of reasons. It can improve your memory and focus, expand your vocabulary and improve brain function. There is no shortage of reasons why kids should read over the summer. 

If your kids need a little extra push to get reading this summer, they aren't alone. Locally, a number of local businesses recognize that kids sometimes need a small incentive to open a book and get reading. Here are some great programs that will reward your kids to do something rewarding in and of itself: reading!

Summer reading incentive programs for kids 2022

Pizza Hut Book It- Yep- Book It! is back. Actually, I'm not entirely sure it ever left. But if you spent your childhood reading to earn a free personal pan pizza, well, now you can pass the tradition on to your children! Kids 4-12 years old can read to earn a free pizza. Sweet!

Arlington Public Library Discover Reading- Formerly called the Summer Reading Challenge, this program offers so much for kids. Not only will the library host free concerts and play dates all summer long for kids and teens, but kids can read five books and earn a number of goodies. There is even an adult reading club! Sign up on the website for more details. 

Free Play Arlington Read It- Guys- I'm SUPER pumped about this one. If you can believe it, I have never been to Free Play! Kids can read 5 books and fill out the online form for free admission and a free swag item! I read 5 books in April... Can I get in for free? All those vintage games look awesome! 

HEBuddy Summer 2022 Reading Program- Designed for kids in Texas between the ages of 3 and 12, the HEBuddy program runs through October 1. Print out the reading log, complete your summer reading and mail in the journal for a special prize. 

Barnes & Noble Summer Reading List- Kids entering grades 1-6 can fill out this summer's reading log and turn it in for a free book from a pre-selected list. This program runs through August. 

Chuck E Cheese Summer Reading Rewards- Print the summer reading calendar and mark the days you complete the task. When you've filled the calendar, bring it to Chuck E Cheese for 10 free play points. 

Half Price Books Summer Reading Camp- Starting June 1, HPB will offer four different reading camps for kids. From camp creativity (focusing on arts and crafts) to camp imagination (focusing on music and arts), this program has lots of great programming that will appeal to everyone. 

I can't wait to get my kids reading all summer! And, if you want to keep up with me and all my reading, the next books on my bookshelf are The Paris Bookseller and Last Train to London!

Reading from her favorite series. 

Happy summer reading! 

Summer 2022 Kids Movie Programming- See Movies on the Cheap!

As much as I love summer, there are days when I just can't with the Texas heat. 

I want to retreat inside where the air conditioning is so cold I want to grab a sweatshirt!

For this reason, I love taking my kids to the movies.

For the past decade (decade! I literally can't believe I just typed that), I've been taking my girls to free and cheap summer movies as a way to entertain them on the cheap. Because, let's be honest. Entertaining kids during the summer can get crazy-expensive. 

Sing 2 is being shown quite a bit this summer at various summer movie clubs for kids. I still haven't seen it but my kids say it's wonderful!

Luckily, we live in an area with a lot of movie theaters that are awesome enough to offer fantastic summer programming that will get your kiddos out of the house and out of the hot Texas sun. Sure, the movies you'll see at a reduced rate aren't current blockbusters. But I never tire of Minions or Trolls or some of those movies my kids have watched on repeat for years anyway. 

So grab a few dollars and maybe text a friend- it's time to go to the movies!

Summer Movie Programming for Kids 2022- Arlington/Mansfield, Texas

Cinemark (Mansfield) Summer Movie Clubhouse-

June 15- August 3. $1.50 per movie. Movies are on Wednesdays. Plus enjoy $1 off kids snack packs or popcorn and drink combos. 

Summer Movie Clubhouse promo flyer, taken from the Cinemark website. 

Movie Tavern (Bedford) Kids Dream Family Film Series- 

June 5- September 1. $3.25 per movie, multiple showtimes per week. Snack on drinks and popcorn for $3 each during these special movies. 

Look Cinemas (Arlington) Kids Summer Series-

May 30- September 1. $2 per movie, 11 am showtime Monday- Thursday. I don't see any snack deals posted but their food is super yummy! We love the pretzel bites :)

Studio Movie Grill (Arlington) Children's Summer Series- 

May 30- August 11. $6 per movie, which includes popcorn and a drink. Movies shown Monday- Thursday at 10 am. 

As of this post, I cannot find any information about AMC Theatres doing any sort of summer programming. My emails for information have gone unanswered. 

Yay for inexpensive summer movies! 

Stocking My Summer Go-Bag: Must-Have Summer Necessities

Ready for summer? Be up for anything any time when you keep a summer go-bag stocked and ready!

I am counting down the days until summer 2022 is officially underway. My girls are ready for lazy days by the pool, summer road trips and just simply waking up at their leisure and having breakfast on the couch when they feel like it.

I'm ready for those days, too.

So I'm using these final days of school to stock my summer go-bag- the bag I always keep in my trunk stocked with must-have items to be ready to adventure on all summer long. My summer go-bag is a fixture in my summer routine, and I replenish it regularly so we are always ready to grab summer- and life, really!- by the horns!

We are always ready for summer fun! 

What's a summer go-bag? 

A summer go-bag is a large tote filled to the brim with all the necessities that keep you ready to go all summer long. We keep ours stocked so we are always ready to accept last-minute invitations to pool parties, water parks, overnights and so much more. We are always prepared in the summer to leave the house first thing and not come back until the street lights come on. My girls have absolutely inherited their mother's inability to stay in one place for very long!

What's in a summer go-bag?

I got the idea for my summer go-bag years ago from a mommy blog. Every time friends would call and say "want to go to the splash pad?" it would take me ages to round up everything we needed, from sunscreen to Goldfish and everything in between. So I followed the mommy blog's advice for a summer go-bag and have kept one stocked and ready every summer since my girls were babies. It's evolved a bit through the years (it isn't filled with diapers anymore, something I have mixed feelings about), but it's core necessities are largely the same.

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Here's what I keep in my summer go-bag:

- One bathing suit per girl that is dry and ready to be worn

- One wet bag per girl, to store wet bathing suits

- One change of clothes per girl: shorts, shirt, undergarments

- One pair of PJs per girl

- 4-5 beach towels

- Sunscreen

- Bug spray

- Baby wipes

- Snacks: GoGo Squeez, fruit snacks, Goldfish, crackers- anything shelf stable

- Empty water bottles, at least two

- Beach/picnic blanket

- Toiletries: on-the-go toothbrushes, a hairbrush, multiple hair ties, detangler spray, deodorant, face wipes, hand sanitizer

- Flip flops or sandals, one pair per girl

Yep, it's a lot of stuff. And their clothes take up a lot more space now than it did when they were young! But, hear me out:

Working on this year’s summer go-bag! 

I fit everything in a large tote. For years, I carried a large utility tote from Thirty-one. This year's I've switched to a large rubber tote, similar to a Bogg Bag, from Simply Southern. It holds everything I need and then some! Before we hit the road, I always try to toss a few lunchables and cold bottles of water in the bag, but this sometimes just doesn't happen.

Why do I keep so much stuff in my bag? Easy. Then we can hit the road with zero effort! How often do you go to a morning play date and the kids fuss when they have to go home but you didn't bring a change of clothes? Or you head out the door to the pool so the kids wear bathing suits and you want to stop for lunch or ice cream but they have nothing dry to wear? Or they want to stay the night with a friend you met up with but you don't have anything for them to wear or sleep in?

Our go-bag lets my girls go from pool to friend's house or free outdoor concert to ice cream to pool. It ensures they always have something dry to put on and somewhere to store their wet bathing suits. We always have snacks and sunscreen and bug spray so we can be outside for hours. It's brilliant!

What do you keep at the ready for summer?

Have Kids, Will Travel: Five Ideas for a Summer Road Trip from DFW!

Five more weeks of school and summer will be here!

Are you ready?

If you're like me, i.e., someone who loves travel and live life on the go, you're probably already lining up your summer travel plans. Maybe you're considering a trip down to Galveston to soak up some south Texas sunshine, or you're thinking about a weekend in San Antonio to see the Alamo and let the kids play at SeaWorld. These tried and true trips are quick drives from DFW and affordable for Texas families.

But, if you're like me, you may be wanting something a little different this summer. Maybe you want a new state, a new destination. Something driveable- because hello!- flights are expensive, especially if you have a bigger family. Driving just makes sense a lot of time for a lot of reasons. 

Maybe you want the beach or lake for a little laidback summer fun. Or maybe you prefer the bright lights of a big city. These five destinations- all driveable and none in Texas!- offer tons of activities and family-friendly fun for groups large and small. 

If you're looking for an off-the-beaten path getaway with the family this summer, consider one of these five fun destinations you can easily roadtrip to from Arlington. 

Five fun summer road trip ideas from Arlington, Texas

Time to plan summer travel! Check out these fun road trip ideas from DFW.

Branson, Missouri

Guys, I don't mean to brag, but I consider myself an expert on Branson. And not because I've actually ever even been to the city (how I escaped spending my four years of college in the Show Me State but never actually made it to Branson is beyond me!). But, for more than a year now, I've written a weekly blog post about Branson for ABC Campground in Branson, and I'm blown away every week by how much there is to do there.

Why vacay in Branson:

Drive time: 7 hours from Arlington

Where to stay: Take your pick. You can camp, stay at a hotel or resort (how cool does Grand Country Resort look?) or even find a fun AirBnB.

What to do: See a show- there are magic shows and comedy shows and variety shows- and they all sound wonderful. Go to the Titanic Museum. Take in some thrill rides at Silver Dollar City. Ride the Branson Ferris Wheel, relocated in recent years from Chicago's Navy Pier. Boat on Lake Taneycomo. The possibilities are endless! 

If you need any recommendations, just ask! And one of these days I'll actually head that way myself... I love me some Missouri!

Lake Hamilton/Hot Springs, Arkansas

Lake Hamilton is a gorgeous spot in Arkansas for a lake getaway. Less than 5 hours by car from Arlington, Lake Hamilton is located in the Hot Springs area and offers a cozy retreat from the tourist-y city while still being close enough to enjoy its amenities.

Why vacay in Lake Hamilton:

Drive time: 4.5 hours from Arlington

Where to stay: If you want to stay on the water, look for a house or condo for rent on the lake. Otherwise, staying in Hot Springs will give you easy access to both the city and the lake. Emerald Isle Resort looks like it have a lot to offer at a great price! 

What to do: At the lake, go boating, swimming, fishing, canoeing or simply relax and enjoy lake life. Nearby in Hot Springs, you can go to the Mid-America Science Museum (we highly recommend this spot!) or try out the Magic Springs Theme and Water Park. Don't forget to check out the national park and Bathhouse Row to learn a little about Hot Springs!

A trip to the lake is always fun in summertime. 

Gulfport, Mississippi

I can't stress enough how much we enjoyed our visit to Gulfport last year. The shores of Mississippi certainly don't offer the same beaches as Alabama or Florida, but "the Secret Coast" has its own personality and offerings to make it worth your trip. Not only is it less expensive to vacation on Mississippi's coast, it's closer, too!

Why vacay in Gulfport, MS:

Drive time: 8.5 hours from Arlington

Where to stay: We stayed in Gulfport, right on the water. However, the Mississippi Coast is made up of 12 communities that offer condos, AirBnBs, motels and more. There is a Margaritaville on the water that looks fabulous as well as a myriad of hotels to choose from. 

What to do: Go shrimping! We can't recommend a Biloxi shrimping tour enough. Not only is it educational and fun, you'll get to see dolphins and all sorts of marine life on the water. Play at the beach. Go to the nearby waterpark. Check out the Mississippi Aquarium. Let the kids play at Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Shop in Ocean Springs. Go gambling in Biloxi. Trust me- there is a TON to do in coastal Mississippi!

Fun in coastal Mississippi!

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

It's hard not to hear the lyrics to Garth Brooks' "Callin' Baton Rouge" as I write about this Louisiana town! Baton Rouge is an interesting town with a storied history. The capital of the state and home to Louisiana State University (LSU), Baton Rouge is a southern city with deep roots and lots to do for families. 

Why vacay in Baton Rouge: 

Drive time: 6.5 hours from Arlington

Where to stay: There are a number of hotels right along the Mississippi River that are fun and accommodating for families. If you want to splurge, the Watermark Baton Rouge comes highly recommended. There are also several hotels attached to casinos if you are looking for tons of amenities under one roof.

What to do: Learn about animals at the Baton Rouge Zoo or about sea life at the Blue Zoo. Splash around at the nearby waterpark. Check out Knock Knock Children's Museum or the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. Take a swamp tour and learn all about the Bayou and the animals, reptiles and fish that call it home. 

Santa Fe, New Mexico

New Mexico is a state filled with stunning geography and a rich history. Santa Fe is nestled at the very southern edge of the Rocky Mountains and is a city that offers a lot of family-friendly fun year round. Did you know? Santa Fe is the highest capital city and third highest city in America!

Why vacay in Santa Fe

Drive time: 9 hours from Arlington 

Where to stay: There is no shortage of gorgeous hotels in Santa Fe. So many I looked at were well, well out of my price comfort zone. The Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder came up time and time again but even that was at my absolute max budget. So, this may be a town I find an AirBnB in, and, a quick search shows there is no shortage of those, either! 

What to do: Meow Wolf looks incredible, and the Santa Fe Children's Museum would be a blast for kids. Railyard Park offers lots to do, and you could always stroll and shop downtown. Learn about Native American culture during your trip. Go gambling during your trip or go for a hike in the mountains. 

Where will you travel this summer?

Everything Arlington's Easter Event Guide 2022

Spring is in the air guys!

The sun is shining, the weather is warming up and winter is well and truly behind us. It's time to get excited about Easter, which falls on Sunday, April 17, 2022.

Arlington has no shortage of amazing Easter events for this season. From helicopter egg drops to bunny photos, you can find a ton of activities for the kids, most of which are FREE, in the Arlington, Mansfield and Kennedale area.

So, without further ado, here is your Easter Event Guide for 2022!

(programming note: this post gets seen by thousands each year... Ever want your company's logo as part of the title? Message me to be the sponsor!)

The year that Easter Bunny photos went well...

Easter Event Guide 2022

For Arlington, Kennedale & Mansfield, Texas

Weekend of April 1

Easter Eggstavaganza- 4/2- St. John Lutheran Church, Mansfield. 10 am- 1 pm. FREE.

Egg hunt, petting zoo, food trucks and more. 

Easter Bunny Photos- 4/3- Pappy Elkins Park, Dalworthington Gardens. 3 pm- 5 pm. FREE/

Photos with the Easter Bunny at the gazebo plus a goody bag for each child. 

Weekend of April 8

Community Egg Hunt- 4/9- Life Fellowship Church, Kennedale. 10 am. FREE.

Bounce houses, rock wall, cake walk, prizes and more. 

Bunny Brunch- 4/9- Mansfield Activities Center. 10:45 am. $11 for kids.

Breakfast, crafts and the Easter Bunny. Must purchase tickets in advance. 

Easter Extravaganza Egg Hunt- 4/9- Crestview Missionary Baptist Church, Arlington. 2 pm. FREE.

Face painting, games, an Easter Egg hunt and more. 

Rise and Shine Family Fun- 4/10- First Methodist Church, Mansfield. 9 am- 11 am. FREE.

Food, games and a special stations, plus a chance to win a family pass to the Fort Worth Zoo. 

Easter Egg Hunt- 4/10- Community of Hope Church, Mansfield. 11 am. FREE.

Free Easter Egg hunt following Sunday services. 

Waiting her turn to see the Easter Bunny. Spoiler alert: she hated the entire experience. 

Weekend of April 15

Free Community Easter Egg Hunt- 4/16- FamilyTime Mansfield. 9 am- 12 pm. FREE.

Easter egg hunt plus indoor play at FamilyTime. There will be a food truck on-site. 

Easter Carnival- 4/16- Grace Community Church, Arlington. 10 am. FREE.

Inflatables, carnival games, food and more. 

Community Egg Hunt Extravaganza- 4/16- Trinity United Methodist Church, Arlington. 10 am. FREE.

Bounce houses, crafts and lots of eggs.

Easter Extravaganza- 4/16- All Saint Lutheran Church, Arlington. 10 am. FREE. 

Kids can "hop" from car to car and fill their Easter baskets with eggs. 

Free Community Easter Egg Hunt- 4/16- City Chapel Arlington. 10 am. FREE.

Candy, crafts, pictures and more. Egg hunt is open to kids 0-12.

Helicopter Drop Easter Egg Hunt- 4/16- Pleasantview Baptist Church, Arlington. 11 am. FREE.

Games, activities and more plus a massive drop of eggs from a helicopter!

Easter Eggstravaganza- 4/16- Revive Church, Arlington. 11 am. FREE.

Bounce houses, photos, Easter Egg Hunt and more. Some food for purchase. 

Egg-stra Special Easter at Shine- 4/16- Shine Behavioral Academy, Arlington. 11 am. $10. 

Goody bags, pictures, music and more. Proceeds benefit the school. 

Easter Egg Hunt & Family Picnic- 4/16- First United Methodist Church, Arlington. 11 am. FREE.

Easter egg hunt and family fun. 

North Arlington Easter Egg Hunt- 4/16- Lamar Baptist Church, Arlington. 11 am. FREE.

Egg hunts, food trucks, snow cones and more. 

Easter Block Party- 4/16- Cricket Wireless on Pioneer Parkway, Arlington. 12 pm- 4 pm. FREE.

Giveaways, music and more. 

Pantego Annual Easter Event- 4/16- Bicentennial Park, Pantego. 2 pm. FREE.

Easter egg hunt, sack races, egg relay, bunny photos and more. 

Spring Festival- 4/16- First Presbyterian Church, Arlington. 3 pm. FREE.

Bubbles, Easter eggs, sidewalk chalk and more. 

Easter Weekend Egg Hunt- 4/17- Hill City Church, Mansfield. 12 pm. FREE.

Bounce houses, food trucks, activity zone and more. 

Easter Egg Hunts are so fun for kids. We are fortunate that Arlington has so many free events!

DFW Spring Break 2022: Your Spring Break Bucket List

We are less than two weeks away from Spring Break 2022! Yippee!

Where are you headed?

We are headed back to my roots to spend sometime in the Midwest, although I know my kids would rather be hitting a sunny Florida Beach. We are almost halfway done with our 50-state challenge (we are trying to visit all 50 states before my oldest heads off to college!), and this Spring Break, we intend to check two (maybe three, if I'm ambitious enough!) off of our list.

But if travel isn't on your agenda this Spring Break, don't worry! We live in such an awesome area that has so many incredible offerings for kids of all ages, you can keep the kids busy all Spring Break. Whether you have a video game enthusiast, an adventure-seeker, a homebody, an artist or a sports-lover at home, the EA Spring Break list has something that will blow you away.

So get planning, get excited and get ready for Spring Break 2022! (and read to the very end for a challenge with big prizes!)

The EA Crew is ready for Spring Break 2022!

Spring Break 2022: Let's Do Dallas/Fort Worth!

For the thrill-seeker:

GoApe Plano: Zip lines, a ropes course, Tarzan swings and more! Ages 10 and older. 

Six Flags Over Texas: Heart-stopping fun right here in Arlington. Rollercoasters and more.

PrairieLand: Let your kids get their kicks for a low price close to home! Wristbands are $13.99 and include the Vortex, Flea Fall, Wipeout and lots of other crazy rides. 

iFly: Indoor skydiving. Need I say more? 

For the animal lover:

Children's Aquarium at Fair Park: Two words: Doctor. Fish. Seriously, if your kids are like mine, they will love sticking their hands in the tank while the "doctor fish" peck at them! Feed the stingrays, see sharks and so much more. 

SeaLife: This Grapevine Mills spot is home to Texas' only 360-degree ocean tunnel. See sharks, sting rays and more up close! 

SeaQuest: Hang out with sloths, birds, sea creatures and more at this awesome aquarium located inside Ridgmar Mall in Fort Worth. 

Dinosaur Safari at the Dallas Zoo: Hop on a shuttle-guided Dino Safari with your "research assistant" at this fun, prehistoric party. Then stay and play at the zoo's children's area. Oh what fun! 

Dallas World Aquarium: You'll feel as if you've stepped into the rainforest when you set foot in the Dallas World Aquarium. Make your way through a number of exciting exhibits, including Mundo Maya, Ornico, Borneo and more. 

Fossil Rim Drive-Thru Safari: Located in Glen Rose, Texas, about an hour from Arlington, Fossil Rim is a fun experience for guests of all ages. Drive through the wide-spaces where animals roam- and feed the animals from your car! Stop halfway through for snacks and to visit the kid's area. 

For the video-game lover:

National Video Game Museum: Get ready for the ultimate throwback with a visit to this Frisco museum. Show your kids the computers and video game systems you grew up with and then have fun in the retro arcade at the end. 

Main Event: Get your game on! Spend the day playing video games, bowling, eating good food, doing the ropes course and more. 

Alley Cats: Play mini golf, go bowling, play video games and laser tag and more. This local spot is lots of fun. Or head up to the Hurst location because it has outdoor rides, too!

Dreamscape Immersive Dallas: Embark on a virtual adventure at Northpark Mall. Ages 10 and over. 

For the indoor playground lover:

PlayStudio Fort Worth: This Montessori-based play space in Fort Worth offers tons of fun for the younger set. Kids ages 8 and younger will enjoy playing both inside and outside, exploring, creating and more. 

Peppa Pig World: Immerse yourself in the world of this adorable British cartoon pig and her fun family. Lots of creative play is available at this Grapevine Mills space, which is great for kids ages 7 and younger. 

Legoland: Your little engineer will love this indoor play area that has Legos galore. There are rides and building areas and an indoor play space. In warmer weather, there is also an outdoor splash pad! Fun for kids of all ages. 

KidZania: Let your kids imagine what the world would be like if they ran it! Kids can create a news show, learning about dentistry, try their hand at fire-fighting and lots more. Kids ages 8 and older can be dropped off and play while you shop at Stonebriar Centre. This spot is fun for kids ages 4 and up. 

KidMania: If your kids have energy for days (mine do!), this is the spot for all of you! You can sit on the second level in the parents room and work, read or simply scroll on your phone while your kids climb and play for hours. 

For the museum lover:

Perot Museum: This Dallas Museum has a fun kid's area on the lower level that will enable your kids to learn and explore. Spring Break Week offers lots of unique programs that deal with STEM activities so your kids can learn while they play. 

International Bowling Museum: Learn about the fascinating history of bowling at this Arlington museum. Your kids will love playing all the interactive games as well as bowling with mini balls and pins before exiting to the gift shop. 

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: I don't even know if I could possibly count the number of hours I spent at this museum when my kids were little, watching them stuff their grocery carts in the mini grocery store. The children's museum is geared toward kids in second grade and younger but there are lots of other awesome exhibits older kids will find exciting, too. 

Ripley's Believe It Or Not: Get ready to get weird! Check out all the celebrities in the wax museum, try your hand at the mirror maze and learn cool and yes, weird, facts inside the Ripley's Museum. 

Reunion Tower: Spend Spring Break at the top of this observation tower! There is tons of fun programming for the week, including story time, local sports teams' mascots and more. All of that is included with your admission ticket!

For the water-lover:

Epic Waters: Rain or shine, you and the kids can have a splashing good time! Try out the crazy water slides, relax in the lazy river, try your hand at the Flow Rider and more. 

The Cove at the Lakefront: This indoor waterpark in Little Elm is fun for all ages. With fun slides, a rope challenge, lazy river and more, everyone will have fun here. Plus, there is a seating area with TVs for you- and you can bring your own food in. Score!

Other fun spots to consider... Crayola (Plano), Play Street Museum (multiple locations), Cheeky Monkeys (multiple locations), the Fort Worth Zoo, Kiddleton (Fort Worth), Medieval Times (Dallas), Pump It Up (multiple locations), Urban Air (multiple locations), Sky Zone (Irving) and Great Wolf Lodge (Grapevine). 

Happy (almost) Spring Break, friends! 

Here's a fun challenge for anyone who read this far... Save this Bingo card to your phone. Cross out activities you do. It doesn't matter how many activities you do- whether you do one or all- just cross them out as you go. During Spring Break Week, share this card and tag my EA page (on FB or IG) with the number of cross outs on your card. One lucky winner will receive two tickets to GoApe Plano for some high-flying fun!