Have Fun Despite Probable Rain on July 4th

Every weather report seems to predict rain for this Independence Day or "Rebels Day" as my British friends call it. Well, I'm not about to let a bit of rain dampen my spirits. Here are a few fun things you can do on July 4th no matter the weather does. A special thanks to Colyn for sharing the first two ideas

• With the kids--try out Laser Quest at 13711 Westheimer. Open Wednesday from noon to 6 pm. If you're feeling patriotic, you & the kids can dress up for the parts of Rebel and Red Coat!
• For all ages--Alamo Draft House is located at 1000 West Oaks Mall, No. 426. Have dinner and cocktails brought to you in the movie. Ahh.
• The YMCA will be open on July 4th. Gather the group for a friendly basket ball game.
• The Astros play the Phillies at 1:05 pm. After all, this is the all-American sport. $1 hot dogs will be sold. The first 10,000 fans will receive a patriotic hat & the first 15,000 fans will receive a mini-American flag.
• Rent a copy of the musical 1776. It's historical yet still funny for older audiences.
• Pull out a blanket for an indoor July 4th picnic. My daughter loves to pretend & at least this way the mosquitos won't bite us.

Most of all, show thanks to our veterans & soldiers currently serving. They've enabled us to celebrate this Independence Day. Happy holiday!

The Shops at Oak Forest

I'm so excited to see a promotion like this of our neighborhood/areas. It's also cool to see a professional use of You Tube. Check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eh5n071Bn4.

It's Alarming Really

So this morning Little K & I went to the YMCA so that I could get in atleast 30 minutes of exercise while she played. I felt so good afterward & headed to the shower. Almost proud of myself, I pulled all my needed items from my back pack, hopped in the shower & realized it's been so long since I've taken a shower on my own without someone needing me or telling me: "Mommy, I see you!"

The women's locker room is totally empty so I dry off & start getting dressed. The upbeat, pop music that plays overhead is yet another reminder that my daughter is not currently with me. Otherwise, Little Einstein's or the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse would be on. All of a sudden, the music stops & a jolting emergency siren screams. There's no one around to confirm what's going on. My immediate thought is to run to pick up Little K and haul it outside. In the next 3 seconds that pass, I realize I'm about to head out of the women's restroom with only my underwear on. For a split second, I stop.

THANK YOU, GOD! I slowly realize that the emergency siren I hear is part of some new hip song that I've never heard. Some skinny, well-paid singer begins to crune her lyrics and I don't know if I should laugh or cry. Slowly, I turn around to make sure there's no one else in the women's locker room, especially Candid Camera. Nope. I'm safe.

Laughing hysterically while I actually get dressed, I realize how "alarming" it is that I have grown from hip, independent woman to concerned, protective Mommy who obviously needs to listen to a pop radio station now & then. How did that change happen to me? Me, I ask? Laughing still, I realize it's all part of the process & I'm reminded of my little daughter again... even when she's not peaking at me in the shower.

Until the next nap time...

Cool Down with Jamba Juice Coupon

Thanks to Kara Hagen for pointing this family-friendly coupon out. Jamba Juice has a buy one smoothie, get one free coupon valid through July 4. Yum! It'll be perfect for cooling off in this Houston heat.

Here's the link for the printable coupon: http://www.jambasummer.com/freesmoothie/thankyou1.htm

Until the next nap time...

Big Water, Baby Water

This morning, Little K was eager to play... I mean, wash ... her hands in the sink. As I struggled to change her diaper while she stood up, she experimented with the bathroom faucet. Little minds are curious. She turned the faucet knob back & forth, studying the effect it had each time.

Finally, she announced with such delight: "Big Water!"

Yes, the water was on full force & splashing everywhere. Her diaper still was not on.

"Baby water, Mommy?" she asked.

"Sure. Why not?" I replied.

She quickly turned the faucet knob the other way & exclaimed: "Baby water!"

After about the ninth episode of big water vs. baby water, I decided it was time to turn off the water, dry our hands as well as the bathroom & head for breakfast. It was a mere 7 am. Oh, how these little minds work.

Until the next nap time...

The Beatles & The Presidents?

Where else but Houston can you see the Beatles (as in Paul, Ringo, John & George) and the former Presidents of the United States? Today, Little K & I visited David Adickes Sculpturworx where the artist has on display what he calls "Mount Rushhour." I was surprised at my own delight. Little K wasn't sure about these gigantic presidential heads and I can assure you she has no idea who The Beatles are... much to her father's dismay.

This is a cool trip for history buffs or young students studying American history. From central or west Houston, take 1-10 toward downtown and exit Taylor. Continue through the light at Taylor (you'll see Target on the south side) until you come to Sawyer. Turn right on Sawyer and continue until you come to Summer. Turn right on Summer and continue until it deadends at 2500 Summer, which is Adickes' studio. Wear cool clothes and bring a camera. This was really cool. Great job, Mr. Adickes!

Until the next nap time...

I Have to Admit..

How is that no matter what I do, I feel like I have a million things on my plate? Hmmm... yes, we have a busy week ahead so check back for updates. Little K & I will be investigating some of the "off the beaten path" museums in town and evaluating them. And we're supposed to squeeze at least 30 minutes of exercise per day into the schedule. Yeah, right.

Hope your Father's Day was a good one. Here Little K gives a smooch to her PaPa and then hugs & kisses her Daddy. I have to admit, I love the photo frame holding a pic with Little K on the playground that was sent home for Father's Day from her school. It's cooler than the flower pot with the wilting flower that I got for Mother's Day. Oh well.

Until the next nap time...

Proud to Wave My Flag

June 14 is Flag Day, a day for Americans to celebrate what the American flag stands for. Do you kids know the history of the American flag? What do the stars & stripes stand for?




Here are a few sites to help you jumpstart this discussion with your kids.

• Wikipedia
• Holiday Insights
• The Kaboose Family Network

If nothing else, hang up your flag or help your child color a patriotic picture. Be a proud American.
Until the next nap time...

Teach Your Children to Volunteer

A special thanks to the Junior League of Houston for the following information.

Teach Your Children Well...
Teach your teenagers the value of voluntarism and of giving back to the community! Contact the following agencies to learn how your child or grandchild can help....

AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc.
Contact: Marc Cohen
713.623.6796

American Diabetes Association
Contact: Ralston Creswell
713.977.7706 Ext. 6083

BEAR... Be A Resource for CPS Kids
Contact: Michelle Searles
713.295.2794 michelle.searles@dfps.state.tx.us

DePelchin Children's Center
Contact: Za'ndra Jackson
713.802.7792

Dress for Success
Contact: Chandra Brooks
713.957.3779

Holocaust Museum Houston
Contact: Suzanne Sutherland
713.942.8000 Ext. 102 or ssutherland@hmh.org

Houston Food Bank
713.547.8609
http://www.houstonfoodbank.org/

Houston Museum of Natural Science
Contact: Karen Fritz
713.639.4658 kfritz@hmns.org

Memorial Hermann Hospital
(age 15 & older)
Visit www.memorialhermann.org/services/volunteer.html

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Contact: Danielle Stephens
713.639.7749 dstephens@mfah.org

Reach Out and Read, Texas
(age 16 & older)
Contact: Kim Anderson
713.500.3836

Sheltering Arms Senior Services
Contact: Joan Arnold
713.667.2840

Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
Contact: Julie Knapp
713.869.7722 Ext. 129 http://www.spcahouston.org/

Star of Hope
(age 16 & older)
Contact: Elizabeth Hatler
713.748.0700 Ext. 222

SuperKids Mobile Pediatric Clinic
(age 16 & older)
Contact: Anu McDonald
713.303.5317

Teen Health Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine
(high school seniors)
Contact: Peggy B. Smith
713.873.3601

Texas Children's Hospital
Contact: Pat Dolan
832.824.1000

The Children's Museum of Houston
Contact: Monica Santillam
713.522.1138 Ext. 209 msantillan@cmhouston.org

The University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Contact: Maggi Suttles
713.792.7180

Until the next nap time...

Another Blueberry Farm to Try

Looking for blueberries to pick in a family-friendly environment? An old high school friend emailed me to recommend Chmielewski's Blueberry Farm in Hockley. My friend said that it's not too far from the west side of Houston & her son really enjoyed it. How about a healthy snack of blueberries?

Until the next nap time...

Expose Kids to Symphony

Looking for a fun, FREE activity with the kids today? Join us at the Houston Symphony’s Sounds Like Fun! Series, held today at 11 am at Miller Outdoor Theater at Hermann Park at 100 Concert Drive. The centerpiece of the Houston Symphony's Education & Outreach program, Sounds like Fun! offers children an entertaining first encounter with classical music and lays the groundwork for further classical experiences. Pack a lunch & bring a blanket or twoel to sit on. Hope to see you there!

Until the next napt time...

Ohio Trip Continues

Today is Sunday, our last day in Ohio. I'm glad that our flight doesn't leave until 6 pm so we can squeeze some more into the trip. Don't get me wrong. I'm ready to get back into the groove but this has been a great trip.

Last night, we drove ~5 minutes or 2 miles to Aunt Kenny & Uncle Brad's new house for dinner. Grilled shrimp, stuffed mushrooms, chicken, cheesy-wheesy potatoes, salad, bread & of course, oreo & ice cream dessert. Yum!

Little K was shy for the first 10 minutes but before I knew it was up & running in the backyard with the 2 dogs. Perhaps best of all was how cuddly she got with Uncle Brad & Aunt Kenny. Too cute. She even played a bit with big cousins Lauren & John. It doesn't take her long to cuddle up next to relatives.

Pa Pa Don just made his infamous pancakes so we ate a delicious breakfast fit for kings, followed by church. More later...

Family is Priceless

Yesterday in the mail, PaPa Don received a giant fish pillow from Aunt Margaret in Vegas. The two have a constant rivalry on who can catch the bigger fish. It's a wonderful competition that has prompted the most hillarious gift exchanges. Once unfolded from its vaccuum-sealed package, we discovered the fish pillow is larger than Little K. Here, PaPa Don & Little K examine the fish closely on the floor.

Yesterday afternoon, we went swimming with cousin Bentley, Uncle Sean, Aunt Patti & Grammy at the new rec center they joined. Chineese take-out at Uncle Sean's filled us up. I was amazed to see 6 year-old Bentley sharing with Little K. It was amazing. When I told Little K that Bentley would soon pay us a visit in Texas, Little K said "and play with cousin Brent." This struck a cord that I was not prepared for. I was delighted to hear my daughter wanting to pull together her cousins. Family is priceless.

Today we've already picked plenty of peas from the garden & completed chores. In exchange for a 50 cent piece, Little K helped PaPa Don (or "Don" as Kylie insists on calling him, much to my horror) pick up the small sticks scattered over the backyard from the messy sycamore tree. Regular breaks to eat peas were provided. Next, we filled up on fruit from the frig and ventured out to Meijers store up the street. It's somewhat similar to Walmart, but much nicer & cleaner. Apparently, Meijers only is in the northwest region of the U.S. or I'd be a new customer. I told Little K that she could buy one sticker or a candy since she helped PaPa Don this morning. She hated the fact that I wouldn't let her eat them all in the store before paying for the candy by the ounce. Grammy encouraged me to give her a few more while we shopped but we continue to fight the battle of rewarding bad behavior. You know how this battle is played in public when Mom doesn't want a scene. Ugh.

After a temper tantrum over gummy bears in Meijers stores, Little K was sent to bed for an afternoon nap. She called for the fish pillow!

Until the next nap time...

Quiet Heroes

I really liked this and thought it was especially relevant to parents & grandparents reading my blog. What do you think? Add your comments to my blog.

"Quiet Heroes" by Max Lucado

Quiet heroes dot the landscape of our society. They don’t wear ribbons or kiss trophies; they wear spit-up and kiss boo-boos. They don’t make the headlines, but they do sew the hemlines and check the outlines and stand on the sidelines. You won’t find their names on the Nobel Prize short list, but you will find their names on the homeroom, carpool, and Bible teacher lists.

They are parents, both by blood and deed, name and calendar. Heroes. News programs don’t call them. But that’s okay. Because their kids do … They call them Mom. They call them Dad. And these moms and dads, more valuable than all the executives and lawmakers west of the Mississippi, quietly hold the world together.

Be numbered among them. Read books to your kids. Play ball while you can and they want you to. Make it your aim to watch every game they play, read every story they write, hear every recital in which they perform.

Children spell love with four letters: T-I-M-E. Not just quality time, but hang time, downtime, anytime, all the time. Your children are not your hobby; they are your calling.

Your spouse is not your trophy but your treasure.

Don’t pay the price David paid. Look ahead to his final hours. To see the ultimate cost of a neglected family, look at the way our hero dies.

David is hours from the grave. A chill has set in that blankets can’t remove. Servants decide he needs a person to warm him, someone to hold him tight as he takes his final breaths.
Do they turn to one of his wives? No. Do they call on one of his children? No. They seek “for a lovely young woman throughout all the territory of Israel … and she cared for the king, and served him; but the king did not know her” (1 Kings 1:3–4).

I suspect that David would have traded all his conquered crowns for the tender arms of a wife. But it was too late. He died in the care of a stranger, because he made strangers out of his family. But it’s not too late for you.

Make your wife the object of your highest devotion. Make your husband the recipient of your deepest passion. Love the one who wears your ring. And cherish the children who share your name. Succeed at home first.

Heading out to the park in Kettering, Ohio. More later.

Fish Tales

Expanding Waistes & Memories in Ohio

Well, I picked up Little K from nursery school yesterday to head to the airport. She had a 102.8 fever. Super! A quick dose of Tylenol and we were on our way. Thank goodness we bought a portable DVD player because Little K refused to nap. Grammy & PaPa Don met us at the airport and Little K began to sing "Skip, Skip, Skip to My Lou." This was especially funny considering I used to skip through the airports as a child with PaPa Don. Little K looks nothing like me but I'm constantly reminded by her actions that she is indeed my daughter. Little K's fever returned at some point during the evening so we took another dose of Tylenol and she requested to go to bed at 6:30 pm without dinner. We were all surprised.

Aunt Kenny, Brad & 2 gorgeous dogs paid us a visit after dinner and then we headed to bed.

This morning, we filled up on cereal & fruit and headed out to pick peas in Pa Pa Don's garden. Loads of peas later, we needed to burn off some calories. (I was 10 pounds over weight on the way up here. God knows how much I'll be over by the end of our Ohio trip.) We drove to two local ponds to do a bit of fishing. I caught none, Little K caught one and Pa Pa Don caught several the size of large minnows. Two of us were cratering & needed a nap so we returned back to the house. Little K had lunch & went for a nap. Pa Pa Don & I paid a visit to Miamisburgh for the Hamburger Wagon. These mini burgers with bread, onion & pickle are a special treat. As if the calories weren't enough, we then went to Esther Price for plenty of taste testing of chocolates. A box followed us home.

Little K is now awake from her nap. She calls "Grammy" easy enough, but can't seem to master "Pa Pa Don." Instead, she calls out "Don! Don!" There's no confusing her Pa Pa with Pa Pa Don but we're working on the linguistics.

Until the next nap time...

Playhouse Disney Live! Heads to Houston

Playhouse Disney Live! is coming to Houston on Sunday, Dec 30 2007 at 12:30 pm. Your family can enjoy the Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Winnie the Pooh & friends, and Handy Manny just after the holidays at the Toyota Center. Tickets range from $18 - $33 each. To purchase tickets, call 1-866-4HOU-TIX or visit the Toyota Center's online ticket site.

On a separate note, Little K & I are heading to Ohio today to visit my grandparents, her great grandparents. In my attempt to be prepared, my backpack/carry-on weighs more than my 2-year-old. Ouch! My husband will be holding down the fort in Houston while we're gone and catching up on some much needed rest. I'm really excited about our visit since it's not often enough that we get to visit my mom's relatives. Not only do my grandparents live just outside of Dayton, but also Uncle Sean & his family as well as Aunt Kenny & her family. PaPa Don has worked his vegetable garden so that we can relive my memories of picking peas & other gems from his garden while we sing. Little K doesn't remember this from last summer but we're hoping to start making her own memories this year. Get ready, Ohio. Here we come.

I'll try posting updates from afar. Check back often. Until the next nap time...

Young at Art is Kid Perfect

Today, our Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) group took a trip to Young at Art to paint our own pottery. Many of you have probably been to similar places in Houston just like we had. However, Young at Art gets a big thumbs up for being kid-friendly.

The shop is currently located at 1777 Airline Dr. (an odd location, really). The owner is in the midst of a move to the Heights, where her shop will be on 19th Street. YEAH! Despite her impending move, the owner greeted our group, was so down-to-earth & personable, & remained casual even with ~20 kids running about.

Unlike other paint-your-own-pottery places, Young at Art has a kids' toys area with a chalk board painted on the wall. So creative! Even the wall art is kid-friendly without estranging the adult visitors. In the bathroom, you'll find a stool to help youngsters climb up to the sink to wash their hands. Plus, there's a changing table for diaper duty. The prices seem about the same as any of the other places, too. Don't worry about paint on your clothes. It washes out with water. Clean up is a breeze, too, because the owner takes care of it all after you're done with your masterpiece.

The owner told me that she also does a lot of Parents Night Out events, allowing adults to bring their own food & beverages. I'm not sure what my artwork would look like after a little wine but it sounds fun.

I think our MOPS leader took some photos of our morning so I'll post a shot here when I can. In the mean time, check out Young at Art or wait until it arrives at its new location in the Heights.

Until the next nap time...

Candy Unwrapped at Health Museum

Here's a cool way to get kids' minds engaged this summer. Treat your taste buds to sweet science this summer at The Health Museum! JELLY BELLY® presents Candy Unwrapped, now through Sept. 3. This exhibit exposes the science of sweets and sours with the biology, chemistry, physiology and psychology of sugar. Pucker up for the super sour challenge! Pedal your way to an energy burn to discover how much time it takes to burn off a single sugar cube. Take the jellybean taste test - where what you taste depends on what your nose knows. And catch a whiff of smells to see what sweet memories are triggered. Science never tasted so sweet!

Candy Fact of the Day:
Gummi candies are derived from gelatin. Gelatin is extracted from collagen in the collective tissue of animals - mostly pigs and cows. What parts? Their bones and skin. Ewww!!!

Although groups are always welcome, reservations are required in advance to take advantage of special group pricing. A minimum of 15 people is required for the reservation. Field Trip Policies can be found at http://www.thehealthmuseum.org/ or on the Candy Unwrapped exhibit page.

There goes my diet!

Until the next nap time...

Peanut Allergies Strike Again

This morning, I heard DJ Mike on 89.3 KSBJ talking about how his family discovered his daughter Abby Grace is allergic to peanuts. They discovered the peanut allergy in a similar fashion as we discovered Little K's... trial & error with peanut butter.

I want to share some info based on my 2-year-old daughter's peanut allergy. Much of this information was provided to us by our allergy doctor at Allergy & Asthma Associates so it's legitimate.

- Most restaurants that cook with peanut oil are actually using "heat-extracted" peanut oil which does NOT have the peanut allergen in it. Yes, ChickFilA is okay to eat. "Cold-extracted" peanut oil is very expensive so restaurants don't use it.
- Only 10% of folks with peanut allergies will outgrow the allergy. Other food allergies vary.
- Peanut allergies range on a scale of 0 (no allergy) to 6 (super allergic). However, a person's range/sensitivity to peanuts can change year to year. So, consider having Abby Grace tested by a doctor.

Whew! Now, that that's off my chest, I can get to work. Peanut allergies are very scary but living with one is doable without living in a bubble.

Until the next nap time...

Free Summer Movies in Houston

When school's out, kids around the country come to selected Regal Entertainment Group theatres for our Free Family Film Festival. It's a fun-filled nine weeks of movies for kids and their parents.

Selected G & PG movies start at 10 am each Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. First-come, first-served seating is limited to theatre capacity. The Free Family Film Festival is safe, lots of fun and a great way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer.

WHERE: Marq*E Stadium 23 & IMAX is located at 7600 Katy FreewayHouston ,TX 77024
THE LINE UP:

• 06/05-06/06 Curious George (G) and Unaccompanied Minors (PG)
• 06/12-06/13 Doogal (G) and Ant Bully (PG)
• 06/19-06/20 Charlotte's Web (G) and Barnyard (PG)
• 06/26-06/27 Everyone's Hero (G) and Arthur And The Invisibles (PG)
• 07/03-07/04 Clifford's Really Big Movie (G) and Flushed Away (PG)
• 07/10-07/11 Wallace & Gromit: The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit (G) and Happy Feet (PG)
• 7/17-07/18 March Of The Penguins (G) and Open Season (PG)
• 07/24-07/25 Rugrats: The Movie (G) and Over The Hedge (PG)
• 07/31-08/01 Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius (G) and RV (PG)

Until the next nap time...

Summer Celebration in the Heights

Summer Celebration for kids and families will take place this Saturday, 6/2/07 from 11 am -3 pm. The Houston Zoo Mobile will be there with bio facts such as furs and skulls, interactive activities and small live animals. The Northwest YMCA will have info on their summer programs & camps as well as demonstrations on Stroller Fit, Roaming Rompers and Kid Fit classes. Prudential Financial will be on hand offering a complimentary child ID cards that parents can use to record important information such as fingerprints, photos, and physical description. Maui Wowi will offer its delicious Hawaiian smoothies. And you guessed it: the Kids Activity Queen will speak at noon about her book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids and will be selling her latest book.

There will be loads of other fun activities (moonwalk & dancing), games and refreshments. Hope to see you there! The center of the action will be Grace United Methodist Church located at 1245 Heights Blvd. For more information, visit http://www.heightsfirstsaturday.com/.

Until the next nap time...

Memorial Day Weekend: Boon or Bust

What exactly is it that causes you to eat way too many goldfish crackers just before you have to squeeze into a bathing suit for Memorial Day weekend? I haven't found the right excuse, although I nearly found the bottom of the cracker box. Ugh.

The weather is dreary and the traffic will be nasty since everyone wants to get out of town early... before everyone else. It took my dad an hour to get from Bunker Hill to I45 and Crosstimbers today. That's insane. My dad likened it to the madhouse on Hwy 290 during the Hurricane evacuation. Boy, I can't wait to get in the car, in the traffic, while Dora and Elmo play from the DVD player. It seems I'm on a bit of a negative roll.

I am looking forward to the long holiday weekend, although I might buy a MooMoo to wear. Maybe my dad still has his "sans a belt" pants that I could use. Ha! Honestly, I think holidays like Memorial Day and Veterans Day are really important to honor. Each day, I pray for our soldiers protecting us and I am regularly reminded of the sacrifices my maternal grandparents made in the Marines during WWII. In fact, I asked my PaPa to share his thoughts on Memorial Day and asked him for insight on what to post here. PaPa is a fiesty Marine. (Once a Marine, always a Marine!) but he shares his thoughts here:

"Memorial day used to be a day when people decorated the graves of their kin, military or not.
I assume that practice continues today but I have not been a party to it. Gram grew up in that environment as her parents were pillars of the American Legion. I really think Aunt Mitt, (my mother-in-law) was more interested in the partying after the parade and ALWAYS bringing home the left over baloney and cheese. I got burned out of their activities early into the marriage as I grew sick of hearing "war stories" from veterans who didn't know and/or didn't really engage in combat.

I fully appreciate that it takes one helluva back up for each front line fighter but combat bragging rites are not earned by the rear echelon forces.

If it's not too late for your blog, I'd suggest a word of praise for our domestic services like the nurse on duty in the ER to take care of that holiday accident; the trooper on the interstate tending a broken body when he too would rather be home with his kids; etc., etc."

I hope you use this holiday weekend to think about the freedoms we have because others sacrificed and continue to sacrifice their freedoms for us. Have a safe & happy Memorial Day weekend... wherever & however you honor it.

Until the next nap time...

Travel Tips for Youngsters

I love gum. I chew it all the time. I especially like the Eclipse Big E Packs made to slide right into your cup holder in the car. What's extra cool? Once you've finally chewed through all that gum, you actually have the perfect container for kids' snacks.

1) It fits into their cup holders, too.
2) There are two openings on these containers. One lets folks poor out the snacks into little hands. (Think Cheerios.) The other opening actually lifts up & open so that little hands can reach inside. (Think candy.)
3) The lids stay attached so you don't ever lose them.
4) The containers are plastic so your kids won't break them (well, unless he's a member of The Incredibles... Carson, that means you!)
5) The container came with a big pack of gum so who cares if you only use it on one car trip.

Hope this tip helps you. I love it. I now have Little K's container & another one full of gum for our Memorial Day drive. Ahhh..... Come on weekend!

Until the next nap time...

Parents' Sacrifices Offer Solid Ground for Kids, Adults

Mommy is heading to Dallas this weekend to catch up with my college girlfriends and help in one of the gal's wedding plans. Daddy is spending the weekend with Little K and some help from my in-laws. I wish I had extra hands during the week but don't get me started.

I've been reading this amazing book called Keeping the Faith: How Applying Spiritual Purpose to Your Work Can Lead to Extraordinary Success by Ana Mollinedo Mims. It's really good & not preachy. The author immigrated to the U.S. with her parents from Cuba when she was a young child. This and her family's experience of paving its way has opened my eyes to a lot. Take, for instance, some of the sacrifices her father made.

"I look back at my father.

I saw him put on a uniform every morning and drive a meat delivery truck: sides of beef, sometimes a whole cow. At night, he washed dishes at the pizza place down the street. He moved his way up the ranks at the meatpacking company and went from a blue-collar to a white-collar job as a salesperson in the same organization, with a company car and customers to visit. Now retired, he still works a part-time job in the meatpacking buisness, a business he's been in for almost forty years. Everybody is South Florida knows him -- restaurant owners, supermarket owners, and small bodega owners. Some of them have known him from when he was wearing a uniform with his first name on it, driving the truck and hauling beef, to when he would walk in wearing a suit and tie as a salesperson.

I remember the times that I was hitting a softball or kicking a soccer ball. My father would be in the stands, wearing a dress shirt and tie, somtimes the only father around at 5:30 pm on a work night. He rarely missed a game. It wasn't until I was in the workplace and watched so many of my male colleagues work late hours that I realized the price my father must have paid in terms of promotions and raises for leaving "on time" to watch us play sports. It wasn't until I became an adult with the similar choices that I realized the choice my father made every day and every week in favor of being there for us.

That was a large part of his legacy to me... More importantly, he showed me that once you become a parent, you must constantly make significant choices in favor of those who come behind you."

Makes me wonder why I'm still typing instead of picking up Little K early from school on a gorgeous Friday & doing something fun. Oh yeah. I'm heading to Dallas shortly so scratch that. Well, I'll make up for it. The longer I'm a parent, the more I realize my daughter will remember snuggling in her bed, building tents in the family room, and hearing me cheer for her. I don't want to give her the option of remembering Mommy working forever behind the computer. I remember my own Mom & Dad being there for me when it really mattered. And today, they are still there for me. What a profound effect that can have on a person... well into adulthood.

Until the next nap time...

Acting Out Character, Values

In addition to being a mom and promoting my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids, I also run a marketing & writing firm in town. This morning, I met with a prospective client about an exciting new project. In short, my company would handle the marketing for a start-up company that will focus on developing character and values in middle school & high school students. Cool, huh? We'd launch a Web site targeting these kids and their schools to motivate them to give back to the community and do small "random acts of kindness" on a weekly basis like opening a door for someone. I'm excited about the project -- whether or not we win the project.

It reminded me how important it is show our children the importance of strong values. My priority values include:
- a strong relationship with God, including participating at church weekly but not just that
- honesty
- being supportive & reliable to family members.
Unfortunately, we all get caught up in the day to day routine that we often forget to find ways to show our kids our values and how they, too, can act with character. This week, I'm going to focus on this and see how we do and how we feel at the end of the week. YOU can keep me honest & diligent.

Until the next nap time...

Mother's Day: Thanks for All You've Got

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I've had a wonderful Mother's Day weekend & there's still more to come. Little K & I enjoyed a "party" yesterday just for us with a trip to the Galleria to buy her a pair of short, a ride up the escalator while singing aloud, dinner of pizza and fruit and lots of laughs. Saturday night, Trent & I stayed home to enjoy sushi, wine and lots of conversation. Ahh.... it was peaceful. Sunday morning found us at church and soon we'll be off to visit Grandmother and my mom (& crew) for a late lunch/early dinner at Perry's Restaurant. It's been a jam-packed weekend but really enjoyable. Thanks to my husband who made it so. As the musician Sheryl Crow says, "It's not having what you want. It's wanting what you've got!"

Before I was a Mom...
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.
Before I was a Mom-I had never been: Puked on. Pooped on. Chewed on. Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts. I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put them down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom - I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom - I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

Happy Mother's Day to you all! Until the next nap time...

Potty Training a Princess

Potty-training just stinks... literally & figuratively. I've tried not to pressure Little K since I know she'll get the hang of it before she goes to college but earlier efforts would really be appreciated. For now, she alerts me to the fact that she needs to go... right after she went. As we rush to change her diaper, Little K insists that she sit on her potty. Why? I'm not sure but at least she's working on it. Oh well. If you have tips on potty training, PLEASE POST THEM HERE.

In the mean time, I have photos of her like this one. One day, she'll be mortified but now she thinks this photo is stellar. Princess Potty, I call it. Ten years ago, who would have thought my interests would be focused on this cutie?

Until the next nap time...

Weekends with the Kids Bring Fun, Relaxation

With all the rain we've had this week, we're hoping the weekend brings sunshine. Get out & stretch your legs at the Heights First Saturday event. This is a relaxing way to spend your Saturday afternoon. Stroll through the Heights shops, stop for a bite to eat, visit an art gallery or two and take a ride on the trolley. I'll be working at the Olive Anne store on 19th Street (near Yale St.) on Saturday from 2-4 pm. This shop has wonderful gifts for young kids from puzzles to dinosaurs to dress-up kits and more. Stop by to stock up on some inexpensive childrens' gifts (I keep a few gifts on hand for those b-day parties that sneak up on me!) and pick up a copy of my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids.

Mark your calendars for really cool events. On May 12 and May 26, Get ready for Movies in the Park. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic dinner (no alchohol) and head out for a night under the stars. Time Warner Cable and the Houston Downtown Alliance host the Movies in the Park. The SpongeBob Squarepants Movie plays on Saturday, May 12 and The Sandlot plays on Saturday, May 26. Concessions open at 6 pm. Pre-movie entertainment starts at 7 pm. And the movies roll at 8 pm. This is definitely something I want our family to check out but Little K may be too young. It's held at Sesquicentennial Park in downtown Houston (at the corner of Smith & Preston).

Thursday, May 31 6:30-9:30 pm head out to Nights on Blue Bayou, celebrating the Blue Moon. The FREE evening will include stargazing, boat rides, storytelling, astrology reading and more along the Sabine Promenade. The Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Discovery Dome will be on hand as well as bayou boat rides. Plus, at 7 pm, the students from the Academy at Theatre Under The Stars’ (TUTS) Humphreys School of Musical Theatre will perform a number from its upcoming production of Schoolhouse Rock LIVE! Jr. Based on the Emmy-winning television series, the Academy’s production of Schoolhouse Rock LIVE! Jr. features memorable rock tunes including “Conjunction Junction,” “A Noun is a Person, Place or Thing” and “Interplanet Janet.” Hey, parents, don't you remember singing to these tunes as a kid? Now, your kiddos can do it too. (Juli, I know you remember this!)

Mark those calendars! Until the next nap time...

Exciting Events in Houston

Finally, a ponytail! This mommy has waited 2 years to put her daughter's hair in a full-fledged pony tail & yesterday, we finally did it. Little K was convinced she looked like a movie star and showed her friends at nursery school her new hair-do. My husband & I marveled at how much Little K has grown -- not just her hair but her awareness, her charm and her temperment. It's just another reminder of how quickly they grow.

We're also excited about the new Winnie the Pooh show that will begin Saturday, May 12 on the Disney Channel. "My Friends Tigger & Pooh" is sure to bring back fond memories from my own childhood but Little K has been eagerly awaiting the show. Perhaps our family will have a small Winnie the Pooh party that morning to celebrate. I love how the old shows seemed to weave in a positive lesson. Hope the new edition does, too.

For our friends in the Cypress area, get ready for the grand opening of the Learning Express Store this weekend with plenty of fun activities. Learning Express will open its doors at the Cy-Fair Town Center on Friday, May 4, and continue its grand opening festivities on Saturday and Sunday, May 5-6. To kick off the Learning Express experience, the store is celebrating with various events including a 20 percent storewide discount. Activities include:

Friday, May 4
10:30 am – 12:30 pm: Balloons with Pady Cake the Clown
3–5 pm: Harmony the Clown with Abby the Monkey & Face Painting
All day: Popcorn, balloons, and slushies! Raffles every hour!

Saturday, May 5
10 am – Noon: Dora the Explorer
10:30 am – 12:30 pm: Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Department presents “Stop, Drop & Roll”
11:30 am – 1:30 pm: Spiderman
2–4 pm: Face Painter
3–5 pm: Dora the Explorer
All day: Free popcorn, balloons, and slushies! Raffles every hour! Nemo moonbounce (weather permitting)!

Sunday, May 6
Noon – 3 pm: Balloons with Pady Cake the Clown
1–3 pm: Elmo
All day: Free popcorn, balloons, and slushies! Raffles every hour! Elmo moonbounce (weather permitting)!

Until the next nap time...

Good Mom Definition

I often think about motherhood today compared to motherhood when I was a child and even longer ago than that. My mom told me today that Mother's Day is not one of the most important holidays to her because just birthing a child does not mean you are a good mom. Of course, not. As my mom put it, "cats have lots of babies." It got me thinking: what makes a good mom? What do you think?

Is a good mom the one who puts her career on hold so that she can stay at home with the kids until they are required by the state to go to school? Or is a good mom the one who works full- or part-time (outside the home, I mean) to help pay the bills and provide for her children?

It's not that simple. I know a few stay-at-home moms. One elementary-school-age daughter told me that her mom is constantly on the phone & doesn't have time for the kids. Surprising words from an 8 year old. I think a good mom is the one who is NOT so preoccupied with her corporate job OR socializing beyond the house. A good mom is the one who doesn't miss opportunities to play Thomas the Train and Care Bears.. even if that means climbing on the floor in her newly pressed slacks and button-down shirt to climb through the playhouse door. (I can barely fit through that door, but it makes Little K laugh with glee. I better stick to my strict eating regimen or I'll get stuck.) Somehow I think a good mom is able to rely some on others to help her through the week, while keeping her child/children a top priority. It's a fine line between relying on help and having someone else raise your child.

In the end, we all make the best decisions we can. As if we don't have enough to worry about: from the right elementary school to another episode of child stalkers on 20/20 to potty training to college applications. At some point, I think we all realize that if it wasn't for that overwhelming love for our children, we wouldn't have to make some of those tough decisions about life. Can you look your child in his/her eyes and feel like you're trying to be a good role model -- however you define that? Good job.

Until the next nap time...

Happy Arbor Day, Houston!

On Friday, April 27, Texas celebrates Arbor Day. The city of Houston has honored this day for more than 20 years. Plant a tree in your yard or help your neighborhood care for its trees in local parks. If you join The Arbor Day Foundation, you will receive 10 trees to plant in your yard. What a wonderful way to participate in nature and discuss the importance of growing and caring for trees with your children. The Arbor Day Web site is full of great ideas for kids ages two and up. As if you needed an excuse to enjoy this beautiful Houston weather. Ahhhh...

Until the next nap time...

Life: Young & Old Make an Impact

Life is so interesting... how we affect people and overlook the little things.

My 93-year-old Grandmother fell last Thursday and fractured her hip & femur. She's now in the hospital, recovering from surgery and the anesthesia. Grandmother Camille already struggled with some dementia but, depending on the day, it can now be worse. When Little K and I visited Grandmother yesterday, it seemed as if she didn't really know who I was -- maybe someone close but she wasn't sure who. However, Grandmother was delighted to see Little K and called her by name... something she hasn't done for over a year. Interesting, huh?

As I held Little K up to see Grandmother lying in the hospital bed, Little K explained in her limited language that "it's okay" and "feel beher" (better, for you English speakers!). My 2 year-old understood that our matriarch was hurt, but she couldn't possibly understand the gravity of the situation facing someone in her 90s. While so many family members have clung to Grandmother's bedside, it seems "the little children" bring her a quick relief. Perhaps she appreciates their sense of wonder & their sense of acceptance. They bring no knowledge of recovery statistics & they don't speak about Grandmother as if she isn't there. No, Little K and her cousins look directly at Grandmother and wish her well. If only we could all be so simple.

As you'll appreciate, Little K's attention span shortened quickly and "Ring Around the Rosie" with Miss Nora got stuck on repeat while I spent at least a few moments with this woman who has seen/experienced the Great Depression, World War II, the television come into homes, Vatican II, and science develop to save children born with only a few pounds in weight. Little K kissed Grandmother unhesitatingly. "Love you," Little K said with a smile. Yes, Grandmother, we all do.

Until the next nap time...

Music in the Air Friday

At 7 pm on April 21st, experience River Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO)'s uniquely informal and intimate music making at Colonial Park in West University. Eleven of the 40 members will perform music such as Mozart's Wind Serenades. Bring a blanket and/or chairs and a picnic for the Music Under the Stars concert series from West University. A map and driving directions are available online. This event was rescheduled from the original date of April 13. What a great way to expose children to classical music in an unstructured environment that the whole family can enjoy.

Subscribe to my monthly, email newsletter for more ideas on fun things to do with Houston kids.

Until the next nap time...

Free Cone Day: April 17

With your taxes filed by tomorrow, you deserve a reward. Head to Ben & Jerry's ice cream shops around town for a FREE ice cream cone. Your little ones will love it!

Here are the details...
Pass the Chunky Monkey or that newer renegade flavor Bananas on the Rum--it’s Ben & Jerry’s 29th annual Free Cone Day! It’s an ice cream dream come true so mark your calendar for Tuesday, April 17.

From noon until 8 p.m., ice cream lovers can enjoy a free scoop of their favorite flavor at Ben & Jerry’s scoop shops in the greater Houston area and nationwide.

While there is no charge for the scoop of love that Ben & Jerry’s will be dishing out, each ScoopShop will accept tips and donations that will be passed on to worthy organizations nationwide.

At the Ben & Jerry’s ScoopShops in Memorial, Champions Forest and on Kirby, and the Downtown PartnerShop, the Tip Tubs will go to HoustonWorks USA, the organization that provides training and jobs.

"We're excited to be partnering with HoustonWorks this year," said Alex Carriles, North Houston Ben & Jerry’s franchisee. It serves more than 100,000 people annually with job placement, continuing education and vocational training. Last year HoustonWorks acquired one of the Ben & Jerry’s PartnerShops and opened it in the Rice Lofts in downtown. It offers scholarships and on-the-job training for disadvantaged youth. Ben & Jerry’s provides ongoing training and technical support.

Terry Hudson, executive director of HoustonWorks, will roll up his sleeves and jump behind the counter to scoop on Free Cone Day. "Not everyone has found our Downtown Ben & Jerry’s PartnerShop yet, but we have hired a lot of young people and they are spreading the word," said Hudson

At the Memorial Ben & Jerry’s, 1413 S. Voss, media personalities and other local VIPs have been invited for some competitive scooping…whoever can scoop up the tallest cone in just one minute wins a Ben & Jerry’s collectible tee shirt. "We’re inviting media personalities including TV anchors, mayors of the Memorial Villages, and principals of schools in the area" said Carriles.
The celebrities he personally is most eager to meet? Houston’s Amazing Race All-Stars Joyce and Uchenna Agu. They will be Tandem Scooping…just like the tandem bike they will be riding for Team Sun & Ski in the MS 150 Apr. 21-22. "This time they will face no road blocks, just friendly neighbors coming in for free ice cream," said Carriles.

To find the Ben & Jerry's store nearest to you, visit http://www.benandjerrys.com/scoop_shops/. This is going to be a good incentive for Little K to get through her annual check up at the doctor's office. Wish us all luck!

Until the next nap time...

Sports, Music, Exercise & Health Top Houston Weekend

At 7 pm on April 13th (Yes, Friday the 13th!) experience River Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO)'s uniquely informal and intimate music making at Colonial Park in West University. Eleven of the 40 members will perform music such as Mozart's Wind Serenades. Bring a blanket and/or chairs and a picnic for the Music Under the Stars concert series from West University. A map and driving directions are available online.

Take advantage of the wonderful spring weather (& probably sunshine) this Saturday, April 14 at the Holy Mackerel Bike Race in the Houston Heights. Details are available in my blog from 4/12/07. This promises to be a morning of cheers and fun with bike races for folks age 3 and up, as well as a moonwalk and concessions.

Also on Saturday is the 2007 Fleishman Family Festival (in honor of the late Dr. Gary B. Fleishman). This year, the event will be held across the street from the hospital (921 Gessner) on Memorial City Mall property. This family-oriented fair will provide a variety of activities, including extensive opportunities to talk "one-on-one" with physicians of different specialties, health and safety exhibits and displays, free health screenings (including blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, pulmonary function testing and more), live entertainment and refreshments. Expected attendance is ~1,500 people. Head out to the Fleishman Family Festival this Saturday from 11 am 2 pm. There is no cost to attend. Plus, this is a great way to spend a Saturday with friends and family while learning about healthy lifestyles!

Sunday, April 15 at 5:05 pm, catch the last Houston Aeros hockey game of the season on Family Day. The Aeros play the San Antonio Rampage for a Texas-sized game. Family packages and tickets are available online. Go Aeros!

Have a wonderful weekend! Until the next nap time…

Bike Rides in the Sun This Saturday

Looking for a fun way to enjoy Houston's spring weather?

Head to the 2nd Annual Heights Holy Mackerel Bike Race. Join the Baptist Temple Church in the Heights and the Woodlands Cycling Club for an exciting day of bicycle racing and wholesome family fun in the historic Houston Heights. Experience the thrill of watching top-ranked men and women cyclists compete for cash and prizes and enjoy food, fun and exciting activities for the whole family at "RACE HUB" in the church parking lot.

Children ages 3 to 10 are invited to participate in Kid's Races ranging in distances from 70 yards to 1.5 miles. Youngsters ages 10 to 18 may ride in the Juniors category race, sanctioned by USA Cycling, and adults 18 years and older can race for cash and prizes in the Texas Cup Pro-Am Series* races.

Don't miss the thrilling spectacle and family fun of the 2007 HEIGHTS HOLY MACKEREL! Baptist Temple Bike Race. See you there!

http://www.baptisttemple.org/
DATE AND TIME: Saturday, April 14, 2007
The Kid's Bicycle/Tricycle Race begins at 10:45 a.m.
Bring the whole family and enjoy exciting Pro/Am Texas Cup racing throughout the day from 7:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Baptist Temple Church in the Heights is located at 230 West 20th Street in Houston.
Parking will be available on streets near the course and in designated lots. Inform an HPD Officer at one of the road barricades that you are attending the race and follow instructions to parking areas.
REQUIREMENTS: Helmets for all participants are required. All participants must furnish his or her own bicycle/tricycle and helmet. Closed toe shoes and appropriate dress are required. A parent or guardian must sign a release of liability and be responsible for the safety and welfare of their child at all times (no child care provided). Participants should be able to pedal and drive their bicycle or tricycle without assistance for their age category distance.

REGISTRATION: Participants may pre-register online. Pre-registration closes at 5 pm on April 11. Space is limited to 25 participants per age division. No refunds. Race day registration (April 14) will be available from 8 to 9 am only at "RACE HUB" and limited to space availability on a first-come, first-served basis. Race day registrations will incur a $5 late fee. Cash only.

There will be snacks and drinks available for the participants and concessions for purchase before and during the event. Don't miss the moon walk, attractions and other exciting activities taking place at the 2007 HEIGHTS HOLY MACKEREL! Baptist Temple Bike Race.

Until the next nap time...

Tell Your Tale Web Site

Thanks for those of you wondering what's going on with my Web site. For now, you can visit http://www.megansalch.com/. Thanks!

Until the next nap time...

Photo Opps Abound in Houston

It's a beautiful day in Houston and photo opps abound. If you haven't had a chance to snap that photo of your kids with the Easter bunny, don't sweat it. Northwest Mall on Loop 610 near Hwy 290 hosts the friendly rabbit every day through Easter Sunday. While most malls have visits from this guy, we like Northwest Mall the best because it's easy to make a FAST trip. If you enter on the northwest side of the mall at the main entrance (near CiCi's Pizza), you can walk straight through the food court and then reach the Easter bunny at center court. The line is either short or non-existent so this is an easy thing to do. Say "Cheese!"

This is also a great time to snap a few photos amongst the Texas state flower: the bluebonnet. Here are a few areas you can go to find them:
- Memorial & Wilcrest: a photographer friend of mine has been doing photoshoots here this year because the field is full of them. This is probably the best place I've seen/heard of this year.
- Loop 610 and TC Jester, just west of the Boy Scouts of America building. There aren't as many bluebonnets here as last year but it still provides an easy set up for good photos.
- Brenham and Hempstead: head north on Hwy 290 in about an hour, you'll see beautiful fields of bluebonnets and the redish/orange Indian Paintbrush flowers. Make a day trip out of this and head to the Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham.

Another fun activity this Saturday is the Grand Kids Festival in Galveston. This is another great day trip for Houston families.

I hope your families enjoy a wonderful Easter holiday! Until the next nap time...

Easter Candy for Peanut Allergy Kids

A special thanks to Shannon W. for sharing these Easter candy suggestions for families with peanut allergies. Hey, I wouldn't want to miss out on the sweets!

• Lifesavers Jelly Beans
• Jolly Rancher Jelly Beans
• Sweet Tarts “Chicks, Ducks and Bunnies”
• Smarties
• Hershey Mini Robin’s Eggs
• Double Bubble Eggs
• Topps Ring Pops
• Palmer “Jummies”
• Lifesavers Gummies “Bunnies and Eggs”

Enjoy! Until the next nap time...

Best & Worst Mom's Day Gifts?

Okay, moms. I'm working on the next issue of the Houston Family Fun newsletter and want to first hear from you. (Subscribe to this FREE, monthly newsletter & get updates on local family activities.)

What is the best Mother's Day gift you've received? The worst? What are some things you wish others knew about Mother's Day but you haven't told them? Do you think your own mother feels the same?

Email me your ideas or add a comment to this blog. Thanks for your tips!

Until the next nap time...

Astros Kick Off '07 Season

Monday, April 2 at 6:05 pm kicks off the Astros’ first home game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The first 30,000 attendees will receive an Astros rally towel, so arrive early. Plus, the Astros Street Festival from 1-5 pm is FREE in downtown Houston today & is a fun activity for families and fans.

How can you make this a special event for the kids?

• Head to CHEW CHEW EXPRESS (Sections 133 & 416), which provides smaller meals for younger fans.
• Squeeze Play is located on the NE corner of the ballpark at the Right Field Entrance near Section 133. Young fans, accompanied by an adult, can test their speed with an interactive Squeeze Play game or their hitting prowess in the Splatting Cage.
• To cool off, fans can indulge in delicious slushies at the Minute Maid juice bar. With the availability of picnic tables and several TV screens, this is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy an evening at Minute Maid Park. Look out for Junction Jack, the Astros mascot, who loyally attends every game.

Fans age 2 and under may be admitted to Astros games without an admission ticket. However, they must sit in the lap of an accompanying adult. Sixteen family restrooms are available throughout the ballpark so, yes, Daddy can change the diaper or take the little tikes to the bathroom. Game tickets begin at $1 per child and $7 per adult, increasing in price based on seat location.
Schedule for this week:
Tuesday, April 3: 7:05 pm against Pittsburgh
Wednesday, April 4: 7:05 pm against Pittsburgh
Friday, April 6: 7:05 pm against St. Louis
Saturday, April 7: 6:05 pm against St. Louis
Sunday, April 8: 1:05 pm against St. Louis
Until the next nap time...

Impact of Day Care on Kids

"A Downside to Day Care?" is an article published in Newsweek that examines research conducted about the result on young children being in early child care programs. The results are interesting. This research seems to confirm that too much learning and structure at too young of an age can actually be detrimental to a child's behavior. As my cousin Juli pointed out, it makes me steer clear of Montessori programs for sure.

What I like best about this article is the insight & research interpretation provided by Margaret Burchinal, a psychologist at the University of North Carolina and a co-author of the study. Burchinal says: "The take-home message (of the research) is parents of young children need to figure out what makes their lives work so they can be the kind of parent they really want to be with their children...Parenting matters far more than any single decision about child care--or all the decisions put together. Quality parenting predicts school success."

My take? So if you're a parent who works outside of the home, focus on the time you have with your kid(s). Make that time count. If you're able to stay home with your child/children, be sure that you're happy with that decision and find it rewarding. No matter which way you work (at home with the kids or in an office), a parent needs to find fulfillment. The impact is not only on you but also on your youngsters. Let me know what you think by adding a comment to this blog.

Until the next nap time...

Indoor Houston Activities Invite Imagination

I've been worried that it's going to rain all day but nothing yet. I clearly remember the weather forecast calling for a 40% chance of rain today. Little K will be home with me tomorrow so the raindrops will likely come then. Thank goodness we have MOPS in the morning to keep both of our minds active.

If you're looking for a fun indoor activity when it's raining or just too hot (those days aren't far away!), take a trip to Memorial City Mall. Little K loves the Carousel. I love comparing this photo with last year's photo. It's amazing to see how fast our children grow up. After a $1 ride on the Carousel, grab a bite to eat in the nearby Food Court. Then, wander through the mall until you come to the Milky Way Playcastle. There is a height restriction of 48" tall to enter so this is best for young kids. Burn off some energy while you & your child climb through the fantasy world of mushrooms, nets and slides.

If your child is older and an aspiring author, bring him/her to Brazos Bookstore on Tuesday, March 27 at 7 pm, when the store celebrates the arrival of author & former Houstonian Laura Moser. Moser is the co-author of the book series including The Rise and Fall of a 10th Grade Social Climber, All Q, No A: More Tales of a 10th-Grade Social Climber, and Foreign Exposure: The Social Climber Abroad -- the latter of which Moser & co-author Lauren Mechling will be showcasing Tuesday night. Encourage your preteens and teens to meet these authors in the flesh and learn how to pursue a writing career. See the Teenreads.com interview with these authors to determine if this is a good fit for your young writer. It's motivating to hear from young women like these who have turned a passion for writing, exciting travels and fun into a profession. I don't think the kids will be the only ones to learn from these authors. Hope to see you there.

Brazos Bookstore also has a young children's reading area and hopes to begin a parent & child story time. More updates to come.

So now you have at least a few options to spark your imagination whether it rains tomorrow or not. Until the next nap time...

Parents, You Feel Overextended but Making an Impact

Thanks to the Heights MOPS group for a great trip to Art Mix Learning Center today. We got our hands full of paint, play doh and tools for creating wonderful art pieces that now decorate our refrigerator. The camaraderie of this group is so refreshing and Little K continues to learn important lessons like sharing, cleaning up and returning to the fun place another day. (Smile!) You know those lessons.

My cousin Juli forwarded this link to a fantastic and intriguing article posted to MSNBC called "Despite 'Mommy Guilt', Time With Kids Rising." I hope you'll check it out. The reporter does a good job of explaining how parents' expectations of ourselves has dramatically increased over the last several decades, yet we're doing more for our families. It's helpful in putting things into perspective and reminding ourselves that we are, indeed, doing a good job as parents.

Also a special thanks to Colyn for bailing us out of a pinch yesterday. When both parents are called to work in the late evening, it's great to have my sister nearby to lend a hand. And Little K loves to play with her Aunt "Juji".

Until the next nap time...

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Houston

Well, I know I'm not the only Houstonian who is glad to see the sunshine finally come out to play. The rain has certainly made for a soggy Spring Break.

The good news is that St. Patrick's Day is this Saturday, March 17 and there's plenty of fun in store. The City's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade starts at noon with the route beginning at Texas and Crawford in downtown Houston, ending at Prairie and Caroline. Darn your greens and celebrate being Irish or pretending to be Irish for the day! The parade will wrap up around 2 pm.

For older kids and their families, head to Miller Outdoor Theatre to see a live performance by the Trinity Irish Dance Company starting at 8 pm. These dancers are amazing and have been highlighted on shows like Johnny Carson and Jay Leno. Welcome them to Houston this Saturday. Bring a blanket for a nice picnic and pack some Irish snacks... potatoes, Irish beef stew, Shepherd's Pie or delicious scones. I've actually visited Ireland and loved the food. Try one of these tasty recipes from Kraft.

Until the next nap time...

Rodeo Even Fun in the Rodeo

Don't let the rain keep you away from the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. The Livestock Show has tons of things to do indoors including:
- Destination AGventure has critters to pet and learn about

- Check out the boots & saddles that are available for sale (Little K tries out a saddle here!)

- Color and veg out in bean bags while you learn about fruit and vegetables

- Ride a pony

- Capture your kids' joy in a photo while they sit on top of a longhorn bull

- The treats are finger-licking good!

We were lucky enough to visit last Saturday when the crew from 93Q Morning Zoo was there. My nephew thought it was so cool to meet radio stars, especially Jenny Law. Whew! With only a week left of the rodeo, be sure to spend a few hours there -- rain or shine.

Until the next nap time...

Bayou City Art Fest Prepares Its Canvas

The Bayou City Art Fest in Memorial Park is great activity for the whole family. With stroller in tow, we loved walking through the park and looking at so much great art. And they even had activities for the little ones. This year's details are below. Mark Your Calendars!

The world will set the stage for the Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park’s diverse performing arts presentations -- from MECA mariachis and Houston Salsa Dancers to Shaolin Kung Fu and Dance Asia; and from Celtic Bands to Eastern Indian dance.

Celebrating its tenth spring in Memorial Park, the 36th Annual Festival is slated for Friday, March 23 through Sunday, March 25, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The performing artists will join more than 300 fine artists and dozens of international food and wine café vendors in transforming the park’s meandering, tree-lined trails into a magical art colony offering a host of visual, performing and culinary delights.
The multi-cultural performers, dressed in traditional costumes, along with crafts demonstrations by the Gulf Coast Wood Turners’ Association, origami artist Joan Son, The Blacksmith Association and Clay Houston potters, are presented by the Houston Arts Alliance. Bayou City Art Festival is funded in part by grants from the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.

The entertainment line-up is:
Saturday, March 24
11 a.m. - Bayou City Concert Musicals – Musical Theater
noon – Dance Asia
1 p.m. – MECA Mariachis
2 p.m. - Del Espadin Baile Espanol flamenco dancers; CORE Performance Company
3 p.m. – Houston Bay Area Ballet & Theater
4 p.m. – Houston Metropolitan Company dance troupe; CORE Performance Company
5 p.m. – Bill Klecka Band Celtic musicians

Sunday, March 24
11 a.m. – Brazilian Arts folkloric dancing
noon – Shruthilaya - Traditional Indian Dance from the Indian Cultural Center
1 p.m. – Houston Salsa Dancers, Inc.
2 p.m. – Revels singers; CORE Performance Company
3 p.m. – Ambassadors International Ballet Folklorico from Central and South America
4 p.m. – Shaolin Kung Fu Academy; CORE Performance Company
5 p.m. – Bayou City Performing Arts musical theater
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park selected impressionist landscape artist Michael McKee as its featured artist. His featured piece, “Fragrant Twilight,” embodies his rich, earthy colorations and reflects his love for soft pastels and an appreciation of the balance between “color, expression and technique,” according to the artist.

Bayou City Art Festival showcases works representing 19 media formats: clay, drawing/ pastel, fiber/textiles, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and wood, plus the Emerging Artists installation art by area high school students. Budding young artists enjoy the interactive Creative Zone presented by Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, which engages children in creating their own art works to take home. Adding to the festive outdoor gallery atmosphere is a “Broadway theme” in Houston's Broadway Café, the performing arts stage, plus performance art by CORE Performance Company, whose costumed dancers will perform the world premiere of “Shedd” amidst the pines.

“You won’t need to leave the park if you’re hungry or thirsty – refresh yourself at the wide range of international food and beer and wine cafes,” said Joe Pogge, president of the board of the Art Colony Association, producer of the Bayou City Art Festivals.

The City of Houston, Budweiser Select, Houston Parks & Recreation Department, Smooth Jazz 95.7, Burt’s Bees, David Powers Homes and KPRC-TV are the Festival sponsors.

Over the past 36 years, the Bayou City Art Festivals, a 501c(3) organization, has raised more than $2.3 million for local charities. The 2007 charity partners are: Art League Houston, Bering Omega Community Service, DiverseWorks Art Space, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Lawndale Art Center, Memorial Park Conservancy, Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts (MECA), Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, CORE Performance Company, SPARK School Park Program, Spay-Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP), The Orange Show Foundation, Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts (TALA), and YMCA of Greater Houston Downtown.

Admission is $10 for adults and free for children 12 and under.

There is no public parking in Memorial Park. Free shuttle service 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. to and from the Park on Friday from Northwest Mall on Hwy. 290; and on Saturday and Sunday from Northwest Mall and Downtown: Memorial Drive at Rusk, Rusk at Smith and Smith at Capitol.
For schedules and further information check http://www.bayoucityartfestival.com/ or call (713) 521-0133. # # #

Houston Precinct 4 Serves Up Spring Fun

If you're looking for some fun outdoor activities, Harris County Precinct 4 has a lot planned. The precinct's newsletter Parkscape is a wonderful resource for Houston families, especially those living in or near precinct 4. (Here's a map of precinct 4's parks.)

During Spring Break, Jones Park will have various activities planned to teach kids about frogs, fangs and stargazing. For kids 10-15, the Junior Canoe Training will teach the basics of canoeing and then take the kids on a half-day trip. Reservations are required.

I especially like the Calendar of Events section of the newsletter that spells out all the activities throughout precinct 4 from March - May. From Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on March 31 to nature hunts to the Fishing Derby on April 28, you're bound to find something that entices your kids.

Sign up to receive the precinct's FREE printed newsletter by visitng http://www.hcp4.net/, calling 281-893-3726 or mailing your request to Public Affairs Department, 1731 Hugh Road, Houston, TX. 77067.

Until the next nap time...

Veggie Tales Take on Chicken

Do your children love Veggie Tales?

Wednesday March 7 from 5:30 – 8 PM join Bob and Larry for songs and dancing, arts and crafts and video entertainment.

Bring your camera and have your picture taken with Bob and Larry. Here's a special event at Chik-Fil-A at 3101 W. Holcombe Blvd.

Call 713 660-8200 for more information.

Until the next nap time...

Vote for Texas Children's Hospital

I credit Texas Children's Hospital (TCH) with saving my daughter's life from a staph infection when she was only 2 weeks old. Our lives would be drastically different with TCH. In turn, I ask each of you to help this amazing hospital in Houston in a contest to win a new fun center for the facility's patients. To vote for TCH, click here and click on the Get Started box in red. For details on the contest, click here.

Thank you for your votes!

Until the next nap time...

10 Tips for Navigating Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo with Kids

10 Tips for Navigating the Livestock Show & Rodeo with Kids:

1. Enter the parking lot at the Kirby & Westridge entrance and tell the parking attendants that you have children. During the week, they’ll let you park up close to minimize the walk, although you’ll need to leave by 1 pm. Arrive as early as 9 am.
2. Before you arrive, talk to your family about how to gently pet animals. Many of the exhibitors instruct kids to use the “2-finger pet” but in the excitement, arms are flying. Prepare your youngsters by showing them how to use two fingers to pet animals.
3. Back pack, back pack. Forget the purse and strap on your backpack so your arms are free to help your kids explore.
4. Pack hand wipes. While the petting zoo area does have hand sanitizer available, our hands still felt filthy after an hour. We were glad we had a bag of wipes.
5. Eat a snack on the way & avoid spending too much money on pricey carni-fare.
6. Wear closed-toe shoes. Not everyone can pull on boots, but avoid flip-flops or sandals. I was surprised how many people walked around the show in flip-flops and filthy feet. Ewww!
7. Wear a cowboy/cowgirl hat that fits. Encourage the kids to wear cowboy hats that have the under-chin strap so that the wind doesn’t blow off their hats. Pull back long hair on windy days.
8. Head to Reliant Center first to explore indoors at Destination: Agventure. Most of these activities are included at no extra charge, although photos on the bulls and the pony rides are extra. If the kids still have energy after this, then head outdoors to the carnival and food area. This will minimize the money you spend there. Don’t forget the Horse Arena for a view at these beautiful animals.
9. Bring your own camera to capture candid moments. Discounted prices exist at the longhorn bull photo shoot for those who brought their own camera.
10. Don’t feel like you have to cram it all in. Buy the FunPass! for $20 and you can return as many times as you’d like. Shorter trips are easier on young children. Kids under 2 years old are FREE.

Houston Rodeo Great for Kids, Families

It’s officially Rodeo time in Houston, providing a great way for kids to learn about agriculture, animals and sports. Head to Destination: AGventure where your kids can pet various types of rabbits, learn how chickens hatch from eggs of many colors, and see more animals than on most farms. The petting zoo gives children a chance to pet and feed chickens, goats, lambs and even Kangaroos! Take a ride on a pony or do a photo shoot on the back of a longhorn bull. Yeehaw!

For families with young kids, I recommend attending the livestock show for a few hours during the week. If you can take off from work, this is the best way to avoid the crowd. Families can park up close by entering the Kirby & Westridge entrance. Just tell the parking attendant that you have young kids and you’ll be directed upfront. The Ford Truck Tram will take you right to Reliant Center for Destination: Agventure. Close parking is available between 9 am and 1 pm during the week. Weekday parking is $7. Weekend parking goes up to $12.

Rodeo performance tickets begin at $17. Entrance to the livestock show is only $6/person. If you plan to attend the livestock show more than once this year, buy the FunPass! for $20 and you gain access to everything except the concert for all 20 days of rodeo.

Weekend matinees are perfect for kids. See bull riders, barrel racers and famous performers from Martina McBride to Brooks & Dunn. The outdoor carnival presents fun rides, games and tasty treats for kids age ~6 and up.

Check back this week for 10 tips for navigating the rodeo with kids.

Little K is calling. Until the next nap time...

March Means Crawfish Boil

Are you looking for something fun to do this weekend with your family? Join the Kids Activity Queen at the 4th Annual Crawfish Boil, sponsored by the Heights Chamber of Commerce.

When: Noon – 4 pm on Saturday, March 3, 2007

Where: Under the huge tent at the corner of West 19th St. & Ashland in the Sterling Bank parking lot. This is a “Rain or Shine” event but the weather forecast looks promising. The Houston Weather Forecast on Yahoo predicts partly cloudy with a high of 68° and a low of 42°. Cross your fingers!

What's family-friendly about this event? There will be a Live Band, Moonwalk for the children, Face painting, Silent Auction, Great Food, Raffle for Door Prizes, and lots of Fun for the entire family! This is a great way to welcome spring. Hope to see you all there.

Until the next nap time...

Family Trip to Austin

Last weekend, we took a family trip to Austin and had a great time. Little K loved running outside at the Capitol. Once inside the building, Daddy explained a bit of history, which honestly went right over our "almost 2" year old's head but it was worth a shot. Our toddler did enjoy looking at the ceiling of the Capitol because of the star it holds. Spinning around with Daddy while looking at the star was also fun.

If you're looking for a quick trip this Spring Break, head to Austin. There are several inexpensive hotels that are kid-friendly. Just make sure you have room for the little ones to run. A meal at El Arroyo will really top off the trip.

Until the next nap time...

All Aboard! New Hours for Houston Trains & Dr Pepper Plant

Here's an update to my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. The free train rides are a big hit for kids and parents. HALS train rides open in March and will have longer hours to fit your families' needs. YEAH! Since this event is only once a month, March - November, mark your calendars now for a great train expedition. Here's the HALS schedule.

Saturday, March 17, 9 am - 3 pm
Saturday, April 21, 9 am - 3 pm
Saturday, May 19, 9 am - 3 pm
Saturday, June 16, 9 am - 1 pm
Saturday, July 21, 9 am - 1 pm
Saturday, August 18, 9 am - 1 pm
Saturday, Sept 15, 9 am - 1 pm
Saturday, Oct. 20, 9 am - 3 pm
Saturday, Nov. 17, 9 am - 3 pm

Admission to the park and train rides are free. For more information, please visit http://www.hals.org/. Thanks to Diane S. for keeping us updated!

Another update: I'm sad to report that the Dr Pepper Plant in Houston is no longer giving tours. Ugh. (See page 57 in 100+ Activities for Houston Kids.) This was one of my favorites because I love this bubbly drink. If "You're a Pepper" like me, consider a visit to the Dr Pepper Museum in Waco, TX... maybe on the way to Austin. This would be a fun Spring Break or summer trip. Speaking of which, if you haven't purchased your copy of my book, order yours today and get the whole family excited about Spring Break and summer vacation time.

Until the next nap time...

Peanuts, It Is

We got the test results back on the peanut allergy testing today. On a scale of 0 being no allergy and a 6 being fatally allergic to peanuts, Little K is a high 3, almost a 4. (She has 15.2 units per litre of the histamine in her blood stream. Scale/rating 3 only goes up to 17 units.) Our allergy doctor recommends having Benadryl strips on hand in case of an episode. He actually does not recommend EpiPens on young children because it's extremely rare that a young child goes into shock and needs an EpiPen. That is more common in teens. Plus, according to our doctor, an EpiPen only stays in a person's system for 20 minutes -- enough time to get to a doctor. Benadryl stays in the system longer and, in my humble opinion, is easier to administer. The emergency room also administers Benadryl upon the first signs of an allergic reaction. We'll need to have Kylie tested each year at Texas Children's Hospital to monitor the severity of her allergy because that can increase or decrease year after year. In the mean time, I should probably invest in McNEIL-PPC, Inc. (the maker of Benadryl) stock.

So in short, the news could be better, but it definitely could be worse. I'll focus my attention on the good and do what I can to keep Little K away from peanuts. Is the glass half full or half empty? It's not full of peanuts, that's for sure! I'll say half full.

Until the next nap time...

Parents' Balancing Act

Being a mom is no easy chore. We all want our children to lead fulfilling lives. Finding ways to nurture their talents, help them become independent and find some sort of spirituality is tough. Don't forget feedings, bathings & good snuggling. When you throw into the mix the thought of working a full-time "out of the home" job, it just gets tougher.

I work three, very full days each week, plus some nights & weekends. I've just decided to extend Little K's nursery school day to later in the day so I can complete more work. Is this the best choice, I wonder. My friend Ashley has reminded me that this, too, can take an adjustment for all family members but in the end, I have to make the best decision for my daughter. Luckily, we've found a nursery school that Little K thrives in. Still, I love being with her, watching her learn from so many new experiences and I'd hate to miss those. For now, we'll focus on the time we have together and ensure it's quality time. I recognize that so many parents struggle with a similar dilemma and we all make the best decisions we can. When my daughter grows up, I want her to feel whole, to know she is loved and be confident in her talents and abilities. Even mommies & daddies need to feel good about these things. How do you manage it as a parent?

Until the next nap time...

Mardi Gras Parades for Kids

Pack up those Valentine decorations & roll out the purple, green & gold! It's time for Mardi Gras! YES, Galveston offers a family-friendly environment. My daughter loved it last year at almost a year old so we're heading back to the Island this weekend. So what are the best Mardi Gras activities?

High school kids and older will enjoy the festivities going on Saturday during the day. Catch beads, cups and more Mardi Gras treats. Live music fills the air & there's more fattening food than any carnival in the Galveston 2007 . Advance tickets are available at http://www.clicknprinttickets.com/ or $20 at the gate. Tickets required Noon-midnight.

Unless your kids are in college or older, I suggest they head home before the night parades -- only because there is a lot of drinking.

For your younger crowd:
Sun, 2/18/07 at 1 pm: The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Mardi Gras Parade (Parade of the Animals) is purrrfect. Families can bring all types of pets from cats and dogs to ferrets and iguanas. The parade route runs along 25th Street from Avenue M to Santa Fe Place.

Sun, 2/18/07 at 2 pm: The Mardi Gras Children’s Parade follows the same route as the Parade of the Animals and is a great follow-up for kids. It includes familiar cartoon animals and giveaways ranging from beads to stuffed animals and kid-sized cups.

On Sunday, there's FREE Admission! Let the good times roll!

Until the next nap time...