Pray for Emma... A Mother's Wish

This morning, I write with a heavy heart. Little K's friend Emma, who battled a brain tumor 1.5 years ago, is fighting again. They discovered on Saturday that her brain tumor had grown quite a bit since the last scan in September. The tumor is now blocking the fluid in her brain. Today, they are rushing her into surgery in hopes of removing the tumor. Radiation will follow for weeks.

In the midst of it all, Emma's mommy is due with their third child -- a boy -- next week so we're also praying that the little boy does not come early. As Jayne said, she needs to be with Emma first. The surgery today is quite nerve-wracking but absolutely required, not to mention the tough, yet precious, road that lies before this family.

Her mother is asking that we all keep Emma & their family in our thoughts & prayers today. A Mother's Wish... I think today this will be many mothers' wishes.

"Let us see your kindness, Lord, and grant us your salvation." - Psalm 85:8.

Until the next nap time...

100+ Activities for Houston Kids Reviewed on Chronicle Blog

A fellow blogger has written a review of my book 100+ Activities For Houston Kids on the Houston Chronicle blog site. Check it out and let me know your thoughts. Thanks for your comments and reviews!

http://blogs.chron.com/westsidestory/2009/10/kids_activities_abound_in_west_1.html

Breakfast Time Laughs

So this morning, I was telling Little K how important it was for her to drink her OJ in hopes of her kicking the cough she has. Then, I told my husband the same thing. Yes, I'm bossy.

Trent poured his big glass of OJ and it looked so good that I decided to pour myself a small glass. I filled two small cups with crushed ice and then started pouring in the OJ for me and my daughter. Suddenly, I realized that my OJ looked much thicker than the juice in my husband's cup. Hmm... that's weird, I thought. I continued pouring.

"Oh my gosh!" I shouted. "Look at what I did. I'm pouring Egg Beaters into our juice glasses."

We all laughed as my husband & I tried to get the Egg Beaters out of the cups and into the omelette pan for breakfast.

"At least you didn't try to cook the orange juice," my husband laughed.

Clearly, I had not had my caffeine yet. Until the next nap time...

How Embarassing! I'm Not Old

So my daughter had a play date with another 4-year-old yesterday in our neighborhood. When I picked up Little K to head home, her mother told me the most interesting thing.

Little K apparently had given the friend's mom a big hug. In response, the mom said: "Thank you. That was so nice of you to give me a hug."

Little K responded: "I love to give old people hugs."

Yes, really, she said that. When I left with my head hanging in shame, I told my fellow mom, "I think you look so young." Her husband looked oddly at both of us. He knew he shouldn't ask.

Until the next nap time...

Pumpkin Time Again in Houston

Pumpkin picking and carving is a big deal in my family. I have the fondest memories of picking out pumpkins with my family. We always tried to pick the biggest pumpkin, knowing that my mother would complain that she simply could not bake that many pies. She'd try every time. If we had 5 pumpkin pies, no one minded. Mom always played along.

And those pies! Yummy! I won't embarrass myself by admitting how many pumpkin pies I ate one time. My mother wanted to crawl under a rock. That's what happens when you have a baby who's born the day after Thanksgiving!

My sister & I always picked the biggest pumpkins. If we couldn't actually pick it up, even better. The tradition continues in the Salch family. On Saturday we went to a local pumpkin spot and Little K picked out the biggest one. Trent & I laughed. It must be in our DNA.

My dear friend Kelley called us early in October to find out when we'd be roasting pumpkin seeds. How about this Tuesday night? She'll likely be here because she says ours taste better. Sounds like a mini mid-week pumpkin carving party to me.

Until the next nap time...

Party Like a Rock Star

On Friday night, Little K attended a "Party Like a Rock Star" birthday party at Double Dave's pizza. Our whole family had fun dressing up. I'm not sure our hosts expected the adults to dress like a rock star, but Trent & I couldn't resist. Trent pulled from the bottom of his shirt drawer a Van Halen concert T-shirt circa 1992 and a Metallica concert T-shirt from around the same period. I had tried to throw out these things years ago because they really are horrendous. My husband refused. I actually remember roller skating to Van Halen so I'll give a little there. Metallica is just too hard rock for me.

Thus, my husband smiled in delight when I sported his old Metallica shirt (above) to a five-year-olds birthday party. All in the name of fun, right?

Little K wore her "Daddy's Rockstar" shirt with a pink hair extension and, of course, her Hannah Montannah guitar. (I can't believe I just wrote Metallica and Hannah Montannah in the same blog.)

The party hosts went all out. I was surprised to learn that the Double Dave's on 34th Street and Ella Boulevard has a sizeable patio in the back. The party was complete with a DJ, strobe light, inflatable guitars, temporary tattoos, temporary hair dye/spray and bubbles. We laughed when the DJ tried to get the 4 & 5-year-olds to sing "Who Let the Dogs Out?" because they clearly had never heard that song. That didn't stop them from dancing and doing the hoola-hoop for all to see. After eating pizza, the hosts distributed sugar cookies shaped into colorful music notes, tying nicely into the "Rock Star" theme. But they didn't forget the cake and brownies, too.

Toward the end of the party, one little girl held the microphone and sang her little heart out. It was hillarious. She even thanked her adult audience after each song.

I have to say, it was really a clever and enjoyable party. When both parents & kids are smiling, you know you've done well and this family really did a super job.

Another favorite aspect is that the birthday girl's parents asked that in lieu of b-day gifts, we purchase a book to be donated to the girl's school library in her honor. They even provided a "Rock Star"-themed sticker to place inside your book saying the book was being donated in honor of the birthday girl. They really thought of every angle, including the giving back to others.

Houston Zoo in the Autumn

Over the last month, we've gone to the Houston Zoo twice and really enjoyed it. Finally this week, I decided to buy a Zoo membership. A friend said that even on rainy days, her family will go to the Zoo because there are so many indoor exhibits. It sounds like a plan.

I have to say that the Houston Zoo is a lot different from when I was a kid. New things include the water fountain for kids to play in (great for hot months when Mommy remembers exta clothes), the carousel, and the frozen Icees. Still, I love the fact that the Zoo does have the bat exhibit (which I used to be fascinated with. Note "used to be") and the traditional zoo animals. It's a good mix of tradition and new.

I found the Zoo Boo to be very crowded but cute. I liked seeing the animals play and eat pumpkins that the zoo keepers had added to their cages. Plus, seeing so many kids in their Halloween costumes was adorable. I just wish we had gone earlier in the day (not 4 pm) so that the trick-or-treat booths were still running.

These photos are from our Zoo trip last weekend for Zoo Boo as well as our trip on a no-school day with our St. Rose School friends. We're already looking forward to our next trip to the Zoo. Note to self: wear comfortable shoes & pack snacks.

Until the next nap time...

Wonderwild is Coming to Houston

Here is a great new venture for local families with kids. We are so intrigued and can't wait to check it out.

Wonderwild is the brainchild of local Houston moms who were tired of the heat, humidity and bugs. An art gallery, education center, and indoor playground, Wonderwild focuses on up-and-coming local, national and international artists--creating an artful environment where families can learn and play. Our 4300+ sq. ft. play area and equipment encourages children to physically and mentally challenge themselves in order to build strong muscles, creativity, and confidence. Our extensive array of play equipment includes:

- One of the city's only kid-powered trains with an indoor track--kids exert their own energy to make their cars move
- A giant 28-ft. wide indoor inflatatable "Jumpoline"--it's like jumping on the biggest bed ever, safe even for toddlers
- Soft play structures designed by product designers and child development experts, allowing kids of all ages to create their own dynamic area of play that never gets old
- 15 ft. inflatable slide* A special place just for infants to roam free and discover the world around them
- A three-story playscape that kids can wear themselves out by crawling, running, climbing and sliding - COMING SOON NOV 2009!

They are holding grand opening parties in late October to celebrate Halloween on Friday, Oct. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 31. We can't wait. Check 'em out at http://www.gowonderwild.com/

Until the next nap time...

Our Trip to the Land of Oz

This morning we went to the Children's Houston Symphony to see & hear "The Wizard of Oz". Little K loves music. It was great. I loved the fact that they kept it to one hour, just right for my 4.5 year old. The performance included actors that spoke and sang a bit about the story. Then, the conductor Mr. Franz did a great job of leading the Houston Symphony through a lively performance. I also appreciated how they wove in educational aspects. For instance, Little K has decided that she doesn't like percussion. "It's too loud and mean," she said. Perhaps she's inherited my dislike for loud noises. Does that mean we've eliminated screaming matches? Hmmm....

Looking forward to another performance in the future. Thanks to the Majeres Family for giving us their tickets. It was awesome.

Until the next nap time...

Students Sing at St. Rose of Lima Church

On Saturday evening, Little K and her classmates sang "This Little Light of Mine" at our church service. You can see Little K over the heads of the congregation. My husband promised he would be discrete with the video camera but I'm not sure that really happened. Still, this is so cute that it brought tears to my eyes. So precious. I was also so excited to see so many families turn out for this, considering the kids only sang one song after Communion. People who weren't even Catholic came to see their children sing. How wonderful to see that. Go St. Rose of Lima School!
Please add your comments to my blog. Until the next nap time...

Count Your Bessings

This week has been a doozy but rounded out nicely. One of my marketing clients keeps flip-flopping on what they want. Another client wants more work done but doesn't want to pay for more hours. Well, I wish I could get more done in the same time, too. Go figure.

Then, Thursday morning my husband Trent was shaving, shook his head and muscles in his neck and back began to spasm. Soon, he couldn't move his neck at all and he was carrying his arm as if it was in a sling. His general practitioner saw Trent at 11:30 am, gave him muscle relaxant and anti-inflamatory pills, and sent him on his way. Trent stayed as still as a statue in the bed for the rest of the day but the meds were not helping.

"Ah, if the pills aren't working by Friday, I'll call the doctor for another prescription," Trent said with a strain in his voice.

Occasionally, his entire body would jerk in pain. Trent said the muscle spasms were going up his spine into this scalp. I asked if it was also hurting his feet because his legs would shake so much. "No, that's just me bracing myself," he said. Comforting, I thought sarcastically.

Trent finally fell asleep Thursday evening and watched my weekly TV shows, and then went to bed. Suddenly, at 2:30 am Friday, I woke to Trent trying to stand up beside the bed but he was in extreme pain. It looked as if the muscles were spasming and shaking his whole body violently. I called my sister Colyn so she could stay with our sleeping daughter. We rushed to the hospital, where we stayed until 5:30 am. Trent was given two Vicodins, a shot of another muscle relaxant and a shot of an anti-inflammatory.

We returned home to discover my sister had taken our daughter to her house so she could get ready for work while her husband headed to work himself. Trent headed to bed while I went to pick up my daughter.

"Is Juji (nickname for my sister) going to pick me up again tomorrow?" my daughter asked. "That was fun!" It was not even 5:45 am. It, in fact, was not fun.

Trent slept all day on Friday but is recovering nicely. He took Little K to the park today to meet some school friends. He looked a bit like Frankenstein, not moving his head much, but his sunny disposition is back and he's feeling much better. One friend even took this photo of Little K and her classmate at the top of the climbing tower. So glad Little K could get down on her own. Trent wouldn't have been much help even today. Many thanks for the thoughts & prayers for his quick recovery.

This morning, I went to a funeral of a 38-year-old father of two kids. He died unexpectedly of a heart attack, leaving his wife and kids. I wish them great strength and hope the community will continue to be there for them. It reminded me that, despite the stresses we've experienced this week, all is well on this home front. If only all were so lucky. Hug your families and count your blessings.

Until another nap time...

Free Theater Performances in Houston

I had to pass along this exciting opportunity to watch theater performances in Houston at no charge. There are matinee performances for kids and evening performances for adults. Check it out. Thanks to Elena for sharing this tip.

http://haatx.com/free-night-of-theater-schedule-of-performances/

Until the next nap time...

In Three Minutes or Less.. This Could Happen to You

So last night, Little K & I took our baths and then I helped her get dressed into her PJs. When I was getting her PJs out of the drawer, I found some baby lotion that I used to put on Little K as a baby because it smelled so good. Of course, as soon as I explained this to her, Little K wanted to put some on. Fine. "After we put your PJs on, you can put some lotion on your legs and hands," I told her. I even dabbed a bit of lotion into her hands and then put the bottle back in her top drawer.

I quickly ventured to my room to trade a bath towel for my own PJs. I hung up my bath towel in the bathroom and met Little K at the top of the stairs. We headed down stairs for dinner. In three minutes or less, we had dressed and were on our way to a peaceful dinner.

Dinner ran long so at 8:15 pm, our 3 family members headed back upstairs to put Little K to bed. I noticed a slimey handprint on her antique dresser but figured she had too much lotion and accidentally put her hand there. I returned from the bathroom with a damp washcloth to clean it off. As I wiped this solution off the dresser, I realized it was not lotion. In fact, I was smelling a very strong scent of Desitin or something close. Slowly, the confessions began.

I'm told that Little K didn't think she had enough lotion so she opened her top drawer, found some A+D ointment (for diaper rash) and began applying the ointment... everywhere. She not only put it on her hands and dresser, Trent & I discovered globs, big globs, on two of her little chairs and blobbing on the foot of her antique bed. Blah. I was so angry that I couldn't even be groced out. It seriously looked like something from the movie "Gremlins".

Trent & I used numerous (no kidding) wash cloths to wipe the ointment off, noting just how well that ointment repels water. I told Little K that she would not have any TV on Monday and she couldn't go to her friend's house on Tuesday. (Yes, I've already given in.) Then, I told her she "was on red -- big time" like her teacher tells the students when they're not behaving in the class room. I never yelled but I really could not believe my eyes, or nose. Little K hid under her bedroom covers.

Today, the scent of A+D ointment is much weaker but her ceiling fan continues to circulate the air. I threw out the A+D ointment and put the lotion in the bathroom on an out-of-reach shelf. Finally, at lunch today, I explained to my friend Shelly the torture that Little K had put me through and laughed the entire way through the episode. Too bad I didn't take photos of the goop. You know the saying: "One day, we'll look back on this and laugh"? That day is today.

Until the next nap time...

PreK Posse Takes on Houston's Food Allergy Walk 2009

So this Saturday, our family and some wonderful friends participated in the 2.5-mile Food Allergy Walk. The purpose was to raise awareness of food allergies and help fund research to find cures.

OR as one little friend told me: "We're walking so we can get money to give the doctors to help (Little K) not be allergic to peanuts any more." That was enough to motivate me to walk the 2.5 miles, even with Little K on my back for a sizeable portion of it.

I caught myself tearing up when I saw on the backs of our (big & small) friends: "I am walking for Little K.". Ten children and many parents headed down Allen Parkway that gray morning but it seemed like fun for most of us. I even had a small competition with two of the boys. They just wouldn't let me win.

After completing the walk, the kids pulled together enough energy for several Moonwalks, snowcones and muddy feet (thanks to the light rains on Friday and the Saturday activities in a nearby field). I visited a few small tents that had tons of information and products for families with food allergies. I picked up peanut-free snack bars, restaurant guides and more. It was quite helpful but also opened my eyes to those with worse food allergies than my daughter. (One mom told me her son is allergic to protein. He can only eat 5 grams of protein a day or his body goes into anaphylactic shock! No way!)

By noon, we were all exhausted. I looked around at these families, who got up early on a dreary Saturday morning, dragging kids into downtown Houston. They got nothing out of this but a bit of exercise that day. I'm wrong. They've won friends for life.

Until the next nap time...

2 Cowgirls

This weekend we stopped by the John Deere store in Navasota since my dad needed something or other there. The girls (Little K and her cousin) decided that they would spend their time sitting on this saddle (see left). Too cute.

Until the next nap time...

Food Allergy Walk in Houston: Sept. 12

As many of you know, my daughter "Little K" has a severe peanut allergy. When it came time for classmates to bring snacks to school for her class, we all learned a whole lot about food allergies. Perhaps one of the most touching experiences was when one mother organized a group at our school to participate in the upcoming Food Allergy Walk... with my daughter in mind. These families willingness to study food labels and walk beside us in this venture has brought tears to my eyes... now three times. I have really been moved by their support and encouragement. So here's what our group is doing and how you can help:

Our Family will be participating in the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network's Walk for Food Allergy: Moving Toward A Cure. The 2.5 mile walk will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12 2009, at Sam Houston Park and is designed to raise funds to find a cure for food allergies. Please support our fundraising efforts with a donation, prayer or good wish.

Tax-deductible donations will make a difference in the lives of many! Any amount, large or small, helps us continue Moving Toward A Cure! We greatly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Click here to visit our personal page.

OR you can join us by Clicking here to view the team page for St. Rose PreK Posse.

Thank you for your support!!! Until the next nap time...

2 Free Movie Passes

If you haven't yet been to Studio Movie Grill, here's your chance.

No Cash Value. Get your coupon for 2 admissions to the same movie with the same showtime. 3D Service Charge Applies. This coupon (at left) has a unique barcode that can only be used once. Any copies presented after the barcode has been scanned will not be accepted. Secure your coupon by visiting http://www.studiomoviegrill.com/ReferAFriend/referafriend.html.

Studio Restrictions May Apply. One coupon per household.

Valid from Sept. 8th - Sept 30th. Do you have a friend who would also like a Free Movie Pass?Click Here!. For showtimes, please visit http://www.studiomoviegrill.com/

Until the next nap time...

Remember the Fall by Doing Something Good on 9/11

I really like this idea from "DoSomething.org" so I thought I'd pass it along.

Take Action on 9/11. September 11th is The National Day of Service and Remembrance. And we want YOU to honor the day by taking action in your communities. Tell us what you'll do on 9/11 by this Friday,9/4 at 5 pm EST, and DoSomething.org will send you a T-shirt!

Check it out at http://www.dosomething.org/user/login?destination=node%2F438161. Or post your ideas to this blog and encourage others to great things on 9/11.

Until the next nap time...

Who Knew I'd Learn So Much in Pre-Kindergarten

I just got home from my Board meeting, paid the babysitter and looked in the mirror when I realized my face was adorned with glitter. Nice. I suppose this comes with being the mother of a Pre-K student since not only her artwork but also her dolls, purses and outfits shine with the sticky stuff. How I missed the face of glitter before my Board meeting, I don't know. Is that why our normally 2+ hour meeting lasted just under an hour? Maybe folks couldn't hold in their laughter any more?

Pre-K has brought about several interesting things, including:
- the comment that one boy smells good. When I asked about this, Little K said that the boy puts perfume on the back of his neck. "What are you doing smelling a boy's neck?" I inquired. "No, Mommy. He told me." Okay, I guess.

- When Little K saw a nun this morning with Father Clint, she asked me if the lady was his mother. I quickly realized that my daughter has not ever met a nun. I now have another item on my To Do list.

- My daughter insists that I should NOT put cookies in her lunch. "They're not healthy," she says. I really thought animal crackers/cookies were acceptable but Mommy continues to learn a lot in Pre-K.

- Little K's favorite thing at school? Nap time. "Really, what about art, music, Spanish, religion, reading," I asked, launching the Spanish Inquisition at the Salch household. "Nope, it's nap 'cause it's short," she said simply.

What funny things do your kids say? Or friends' kids say?

Until the next nap time...

Color Children's Creativity with Art Classes at Chapelwood

ART FOR ALL HOUSTON invites you to join its exciting FALL CLASSES!

Classes begin THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH and will study CAVE PAINTINGS TO PICASSO, a historical view of art through the ages. The class will study art history and art making through the masters and end the semester with a trip to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH) to view the works in person.

SCHEDULE FOR FALL:
MONDAYS: PREK -K 2:30-3:30 pm
1st -3rd grade 3:30-5 pm

WEDNESDAYS: PreK-K 2:30-3:30 pm
4th grade and up 3:30-5 pm

THURSDAYS: 3-5 year olds 2-3 pm

Location: Chapelwood Methodist Church
Plus, ART FOR ALL ANNIVERSARY ART SHOW (including all current and former students)
will be held on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29th 6-7 PM.

Last day for registration is SEPTEMBER 2, 2009. Visit the Web site and register with your credit card by using PAY PAL.

Until the next nap time...

New School Year Starts Out Great

Yes, we've been quite busy with the new school year starting and Little K's entrance into Pre-Kindergarten. The requirement to be there by 7:45 am is difficult for both of us and we both miss our play time but are finding ways to squeeze it in after school and on the weekends. Thank goodness for that book. Smile.

I must be a nerd for uniforms and packed lunches because those are two of my favorite things so far. Weird. I love how all the kids look in those St. Rose Catholic School uniforms. The funny thing is it's the same uniform that my sister and several of my friends wore at St. Cecilia. My emails to girlfriends have really made them laugh.

Little K keeps telling me that she's not allowed to have a cookie in her lunch box which is not true. She's the only child who does not want dessert, I'm sure. Our school has done a great job of keeping her away from peanuts and peanut products due to her allergy. I think it's been a big shock to the school staff but they've been so accommodating. We are so blessed!

How has your school year started out?

Until the next nap time...

Meet the Teacher Day

With the new school year comes "Meet the Teacher Day". My Little K is beginning PreK and I think I'm more nervous than she is. We'll be off to our, I mean HER, first day at PreK. It's only a half-day so we can get the hang of things. I'll share updates soon.

A big thanks to my Mom who spent the day with Little K on Wednesday while I went to work. It was good to have that special time.

Another big, tasty thanks to Cici & Popi for the delicious school-themed cookie bouquet that arrived yesterday for my new student. Little K enjoyed eating the tires off the school bus last night and then devouring the driver. (smile).

Until the next nap time...

MaMa Needs a New Pair of Shoes

My mom teases that instead of having a second child, I bought a dog. Thus far, she's right. The thing is, I don't remember Little K being half the trouble of this dog. At least when she was 6 months old, I could keep up with her and even place her in a play pen so I could relax a bit.

Not with Dutch, our Rhodesian Ridgeback. Last night, he mutilated Arthur the Stuffed Bear that's been with me since 1997. Arthur went to my mom's house today to undergo surgery, I mean, sewing treatments.

This evening, after an all-day strategy meeting, I carefully placed my brown high-heels on the counter and made dinner. I ran upstairs to check email before my Mom brought Little K back for the day. When I returned downstairs, I not only found the blue accent pillow from our bedroom but also part of my shoe. (Other parts of the shoe were scattered throughout the den.) The dog looked at me and seemed to say "Look, Dad came home to walk me at lunch. Where's YOUR love?"

The dog is now outside while I sip on chardonnay and await my darling 4-year-old Little K. MaMa needs a new pair of shoes! And this could get expensive.

Until the next nap time...

Animalopolis Roars into IMAX

I think this looks like a fun thing to do with the kids.

Animalopolis Roars into IMAX
New “Seussian” style IMAX entertaining for kids of all ages

HOUSTON—Explore the animal kingdom with Animalopolis, a “Seusssian” style film, done in rhyme and verse, presenting 13 different wild animals as they are found in their natural habitats. Viewers get a unique perspective of the beauty of these magnificent creatures, from the glory and majesty of lions, to the sleek grace and beauty of cheetahs. Other animals such as polar bears, crabs, sea lions, rhinos, hippos and zebras are also captured on film.

“Animalopolis is a unique, hilarious IMAX that makes learning fun,” said Charlotte Brohi, vice president of IMAX operations. “This whimsical look at the real world of animals as they play in their natural habitat not only reaches out to parents and teachers alike but engages even the youngest of audiences who are sure to giggle, cheer and clap throughout.”

Animalopolis focuses on the lifestyles of 13 unique animals, sometimes ascribing human-like attributes to the animals to allow the audience to relate to the personalities of these creatures. A lion bursts into opera, singing “The Marriage of Figaro” to his pride. Sea lions turn somersaults and bears dance the waltz. This film is ideal for both the young and the young at heart. The animals are presented in a fun and humorous way, with just enough information to spark the viewers’ interest without dampening their desire to learn more.

Animalopolis director Tim Huntley, is an Academy Award winner for “Up,” a live action short, and has also received an Emmy and three additional Emmy nominations.
See more, hear more, feel more in IMAX®. For tickets, or more information, visit http://www.hmns.org/ or call (713) 639-4629.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science—one of the nation’s most heavily attended museums—is a centerpiece of the Houston Museum District. With four floors of permanent exhibit halls, and the Wortham IMAX® Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium and George Observatory and as host to world-class and ever-changing touring exhibitions, the Museum has something to delight every age group. With such diverse and extraordinary offerings, a trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, located at One Hermann Circle Drive in the heart of the Museum District, is always an adventure.

Until the next nap time...

Starting School for the First Time: Pre-Kindergarten

My little girl starts PreK next Friday. Wow! How time flies! I'm excited about the opportunities that this presents from the Christmas concert to learning to read. Still, I'm realizing that I'm holding onto her more than ever. My sweet little girl is growing up so fast. And I'm not crazy about not being able to "play hookie" whenever we want. I know, I know. Make the most of your weekends. We will.

My mom also mentioned that children often react to big changes like school starting in different ways. Some kids crawl into bed with their parents. (Wait. Little K started doing that last week.) Some kids start wetting the bed. (Okay there.) Others might just be more snuggly than usual. (My daughter is definitely doing that but it could be instigated by her mother.)

What are your experiences with this? Did your child react in a surprising way when he/she started elementary school? I want to hear from you. Tips?

Until the next nap time...

Great Birthday Ideas

Today is my little sister's birthday so I have to give her a shout out. "Happy Birthday, Colyn!"

Speaking of birthdays, we went to the most creative kid's birthday party the other weekend. The little boy's b-day party had a theme of getting dirty. (How appropriate.)

Upon arrival, the children took off their shoes and socks so they could walk in paint and then put their footprints on a piece of butcher paper. The paper was hung to dry with each child's name on it so they could take it home with them. (Little K's footprints are now hanging on our laundry room door, which also is the entrance to our art supply room.) I've just got to remember to write the date on the paper so I have a reference point in the future.

Kids then could dig in a wheelbarrow to find small toys. The dad helped the kids put Mentos in a bottle of soda and then watch the soda fountain erupt upward feet in the air. (See the photo to the left for an idea of how this display really comes together for some entertainment. It will make you think twice before eating Mentos and drinking soda again for sure.)

One grandmother helped the children make homemade slime. Silly string was plentiful. I can't forget the big paper that hung on the fence, inviting friends and family to add a personal note with paint.

Still, my absolute favorite was the human sundae. Despite my teasing, I promised NOT to post pictures of the victims but let me describe this one for you. It was awesome!

One aunt and uncle of the birthday boy (my great friend & her husband) wore all white clothes and sat down on the bottom of a refrigerator box that was carefully placed outside. Then, all the guests (yes, even the adults) were invited to decorate these two people with ice cream sundae makings. Imagine these adults COVERED in whip cream, colored sprinkles, chocolate syrup and cherries. Luckily, they both wore goggles because they were soaked in dessert. Boy, was it a riot.

If you can convince a family member to do this at your next party, try it. Just realize that paybacks are guaranteed. Until the next nap time...

How to Write and Publish a Book

I've received questions about how to publish a book from a few friends so I thought I'd post my notes here. These are in no way a guarantee that your book will get published, but these are my tips and notes. If you live in Houston, I also recommend Roger Leslie's one-day class through Leisure Learning Unlimited. See www.llu.com.

Book Publishing Resources

So you want to publish a book? First, you need to buy or borrow the annual book called Writer's Market, which tells you the types of books that each publishing house is planning to fund within the given year. Find several that are closely related to your book topic. Send them either a copy of your manuscript or an outline. The book usually tells you what each publishing house wants (manuscript, outline, etc.) The publishing houses receive tons of requests so allow for several months before they respond. Some writers believe in hiring a literary agent, who can help you find the right publishing house but realize you have to pay the literary agent as well. See more details on literary agents below.

Below are some notes that I’ve taken over the years that might help you, too.

Resources

- Association of Authors’ Representation at http://www.aar-online.org/mc/page.do
a. Has code of ethics for literary agents
b. Can use free, searchable database to find info on literary agents by name; can search “children” to pull up list of possible literary agents & whether they’re accepting new clients
c. Also has list of recommended resources from copyright info to book fairs

- Literary Agent Research & Evaluation at www.agentresearch.com
- Publishing Scams by Professor Jim Fisher at http://www.edinboro.edu/cwis/polisci/jimfisher/scams/overview.html
- Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators at http://www.scbwi.org/
- Writer Beware http://www.sfwa.org/beware/agents.html

Types of Books

-board books and novelty: age ~2-5
- picture books or early readers: age ~ 4-8
- middle grade reads: age ~ 8-12
- books for teens: age ~10-14

Recommended Books
- How to Write & Sell Children’s Picture Books
- Writer's Market
- Children’s Writers & Illustrators Market: includes payment info for publishers, contact info, etc.
- Ten Percent of Nothing: The Case of the Literary Agent from Hell by Professor Jim Fisher

Some Children’s Book Publishers
- Scholastic www.scholastic.com 212-343-6100
a. Publishes Harry Potter and Clifford the Big Red Dog series
- HarperCollins www.harperchildrens.com and www.harperchildrens.com/hch/aboutus 212-261-6500
a. Publishes Berenstain Bears series and Goodnight Moon & Where the Wild Things Are
- Kane Miller www.kanemiller.com; info@kanemiller.com
- Hyperion www.hyperionchildrensbooks.com and www.babyeinstein.com
a. Publishes Baby Einstein book series
- Random House www.randomhouse.com
a. Publishes Dr. Seuss

Questions for literary agents:
1. Will you provide a list of recent sales including author, title and publisher? (AAR recommends 10 books within 18 months.)
2. Will you provide info on your experience and background? (resume or CV)
3. Are you listed in Bill Martin’s Agent Research & Evaluation (AR&E)?

FAQs about Literary Agents – borrowed from AAR:
What can an agent do for you?
Literary and dramatic agents are engaged in the marketing of rights to literary properties.
They serve as their clients' representatives with respect to the clients' literary work. They review their clients' work and advise them about its quality and potential marketability, nd the possible strategy for securing its publication. An agent's relationship to a client is fiduciary and includes fiscal responsibility for funds collected on the client's behalf.

Your Agent May:
· Offer editorial guidance.
· Establish contacts for you with firms and persons who are acquiring rights to literary and/or dramatic material.
· Advise you about current trends conditions, practices, and contractual terms.
· Market your literary material and rights therein. Negotiate and review licensing agreements.
· Review royalty statements.
· Monitor licensees' marketing of your work.

What does the Author/Agent relationship consist of?
The specifics of the relationship between an author and agent will vary depending on the nature of the work in question, the author's needs, and the agent's policies and practices. At a minimum, the relationship should include:
· An understanding as to what works of the author-and what rights in those works-are covered by the relationship.
· Agreement as to the compensation the agent is to receive for the agent's services.
· Agreement as to what expenses of the agent are to be reimbursed by the author, and how that reimbursement is to be made.

How can you find an agent?
Literary agents are listed in many sources, including Literary Market Place, a directory of the publishing industry, which is available at most libraries. You may also ask for recommendations from editors, writing instructors, or fellow writers.

Most agents will not accept queries by telephone, fax or E-mail. To contact an agent, write a brief letter describing your work and listing your prior publications (if any). You must include a stamped self-addressed envelope for reply. You may approach several agents at the same time. Submit material only when an agent asks you to do so, and agents expect you to inform them when you are submitting to more than one agent simultaneously. Your materials should be unbound, neatly typed and double-spaced. Be sure to include a stamped, self-addressed mailer for return of your manuscript. Always retain a copy of your manuscript.

Once you have found an agent who wants to represent you, you should feel free to discuss such matters as the nature and scope of the agent's responsibilities, the agent's compensation, the expenses for which the agent will be reimbursed, etc. and to inquire about the agency's size, client list and areas of specialization.

The AAR believes that the practice of literary agents charging clients or potential clients for reading and evaluating literary works (including outlines, proposals, and partial or complete manuscripts) is subject to serious abuse that reflects adversely on our profession. For that reason, the AAR prohibits its members from charging reading fees.

What should you do if you find an agent?
The following is a suggested list of topics for authors to discuss with literary agents who have offered to represent them:
· Are you a member of the Association of Authors' Representatives?
· How long have you been in business as an agent?
· Do you have specialists at your agency who handle movie and television rights? Foreign rights?
· Do you have subagents or corresponding agents in Hollywood and overseas?
· Who in your agency will actually be handling my work? Will the other staff members be familiar with my work and the status of my business at your agency? Will you oversee or at least keep me apprised of the work that your agency is doing on my behalf?
· Do you issue an agent-author agreement? May I review the language of the agency clause that appears in contracts you negotiate for your clients?
· How do you keep your clients informed of your activities on their behalf?
· Do you consult with your clients on any and all offers?
· What are your commission rates? What are your procedures and time-frames for processing and disbursing client funds? Do you keep different bank accounts separating author funds from agency revenue? What are your policies about charging clients for expenses incurred by your agency?
· When you issue 1099 tax forms at the end of each year, do you also furnish clients upon request with a detailed account of their financial activity, such as gross income, commissions and other deductions, and net income, for the past year?
· In the event of your death or disability, what provisions exist for my continued representation?
· If we should part company, what is your policy about handling any unsold subsidiary rights in my work?

(Please bear in mind that most agents are NOT going to be willing to spend the time answering these questions unless they have already read your material and wish to represent you.)

Questions for publishers:
1. Does publisher buy all rights?
2. How do you market and promote your children’s books?What are some recent children’s books that you’ve published? (author, title)

Until the next nap time...

Marriage in the Eyes of a Child

Tuesday night, our family was driving a short distance to visit my Grandmother. Her assisted living facility was having a family get-together so we were sure to attend.

From the back seat, Little K said: "Do you know why sometime I'm grouchy?"

My husband & I looked at each other quizzically.
"No, why are you grouchy sometimes?"

"Because Connor is taking a long time to marry me," my four-year-old responded, thinking of her little boyfriend who lives in Denver.

Trent & I howled. Finally, we pulled ourselves together and explained that she needed to be much older to get married but that we were pleased with her selection. Connor is the son of the bestman in our wedding.

How do you explain getting married to your child? Little K sees the Disney movies where Ariel (& the others) gets married at age 16 years old and thinks that's the norm.

Until the next nap time...

Annual Free Child I.D. Kit Day Set for Sat., Aug. 8 at Community National Bank

Annual Free Child I.D. Kit Day Set for Sat., Aug. 8 at Community National Bank

Community National Bank (CNB) will sponsor its eighth annual “Free Child I.D. Kit Day” Saturday, August 8, 9 a.m. to noon, in the bank’s Bellaire Room, 5123 Bellaire Boulevard at South Rice. The bank, along with the Bellaire Police Department, Bellaire Lions Club and McGruff, the Crime Dog, will distribute the free child identification kits to area families as a community service.

"If you don't have a Child I.D. kit for your child, we encourage you to come get one on August 8. If you have a Child I.D. kit, we hope you will come update the photo, which should be done annually,” said Bellaire Police Department Community Resource Officer Tim Quimby. According to Community National Bank CEO Randy Dobbs, the bank has distributed hundreds of kits to help protect local children over the past seven years.

Geared to children from 2-1/2 years to early teens, Free Child I.D. Kit Day will include children's on-site instant photos and fingerprinting for their families' records. The bank will serve complimentary lemonade and donuts and distribute “goody bags” to the children.
Completed Child I.D. kits contain pertinent identification data such as names and contact information of the child's friends and family, blood type, allergy information and DNA hair sample, in a compact, comprehensive, confidential and convenient format.

Bellaire Police Department Officer Quimby notes that having a recent casual photograph of the child (as opposed to a posed portrait) is a major help to law enforcement in search efforts. He will be available to answer crime prevention questions.

The Bellaire Lions Club is a member of Lions International, the world's oldest and largest service club. Its mission is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding. The Bellaire Lions Club is a group of service-minded men and women who serve their community and their state by carrying out the organization’s mission. Service-minded individuals, who can spare an hour or two each month, are invited to join the Bellaire Lions Club. For more information, please contact Lion Morris Dante, 713-843-6323 or morwdan@sbcglobal.net.

Community National Bank, independently owned and operated, is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The drive-through bank, 5235 Bellaire Boulevard at Ferris St., is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. The FDIC insures the deposits of Community National Bank, an equal opportunity lender.

For further information on Community National Bank's Child I.D. community service program, call (713) 664-4777.

Until the next nap time...

Disney Train Enters Houston on August 11

Mark your calendars now for a fun, FREE event. The FREE Disney Train Tour will be promoting a new movie "A Christmas Carol", starring Jim Carrey. The train will consist of several exhibit cars that show kids of all ages the behind-the-scenes making of the new movie. A 3-D theatre tent will show select scenes from the movie, giving guests a sneak peak.

While the movie hits theatres in November, the Disney Train Tour will be in Houston only one day: Tuesday, August 11 from 9 am - 7 pm. Head downtown to the Amtrak Station at 902 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX. 77002. Bring your camera for some great photos. It'll bring new light to the story of Scrooge.

Until the next nap time...

Free Art Workshop for Parents & Kids

Art League Houston and Target Present Dream the Future!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:
JILL NEPOMNICK or LINDA PHENIX at 713-523-9530

Registration (required) by e-mail: jill@artleaguehouston.org or by phone at 713-523-9530

Dream the Future! A FREE Workshop for Parents and Children (ages 5 to 11) This workshop requires a parent to attend with their children, and there is a limit of four attendees per family.

Date and Time: Saturday, July 25, 2009; 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon (Please note that once instruction begins at 10:00 am, no latecomers can be admitted. Check-in is between 9:30 and 10:00 at which time a continental breakfast will be served.)

Location: The Art League Houston House located adjacent to Art League Houston. Please note that Art League Houston is located at 1953 Montrose Blvd., Houston, TX 77009. The ALH House is located at 1003 Bomar. Parking is available in the ALH parking lot. Participants are strongly advised NOT TO PARK in the Texas Art Supply parking lot.

The Dream the Future! workshop is part of Art League Houston's ArtBound! project, sponsored by Target. Artbound! workshops promote family literacy and encourage family interaction through the arts. They are taught by professional artists with activities that can be easily replicated at home.

About the Dream the Future Workshop: Art League Houston and Target are pleased to present Dream the Future!, an ArtBound! workshop led by artist and educator Angela Cook. The workshop is for parents and children (ages five to eleven) and will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2009, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The workshop is FREE, but due to limited space, reservations are required.

Artist/Educator Angela Cook will facilitate the workshop which will have families creating sculpture from everyday objects. All supplies will be provided. The sculptures created during the workshop can also serve as prototypes for things we will need in the future. This workshop is in conjunction with Detritus, an exhibition of paintings and sculptures, which will be on view at Art League Houston from July 17 to August 28, 2009. Painter Angela Berloian joins forces with Jessica Moon Bernstein, a sculptor who makes use of the detritus of others to create art.

Dream the Future! Workshop Schedule: 9:30 am to 10:00 am: registration, continental breakfast, an coloring activity 10 am - Noon: Art Workshop - Due to the nature of the workshop, once instruction begins at 10:00 am, no latecomers can be admitted.

Please note that Art League Houston maintains that creativity at its best takes time, therefore Artbound! workshops are designed to give families an experience that runs counter to fast-paced activities.

Until the next nap time...

This Weekend: Trek across distant lands in Journey to Mecca

Trek across distant lands in Journey to Mecca
Travel with Ibn Battuta on his famed historic voyage - in IMAX

HOUSTON—Cross through time and thousands of miles of perilous desert in Journey to Mecca, opening July 1, 2009 at the Houston Museum of Natural Science Wortham IMAX® Theatre. Journey alongside Ibn Battuta, the famed Muslim traveler who ventured three times farther than Marco Polo, on an expedition made almost 700 years ago: his pilgrimage to Mecca. Venture into the most sacred sanctuary of Islam, the Grand Mosque – on the IMAX screen, the closest non-Muslims may come to witnessing this extraordinary event.

Journey to Mecca tells the story of Ibn Battuta, a young scholar who leaves Tangier in 1325 on an epic and dangerous journey, traveling alone from his home in Morocco to reach Mecca, some 3,000 miles across the North African desert. Battuta would not return home for almost 30 years, visiting over 40 countries, returning to Mecca five times to perform the Hajj and creating one of the greatest travel journals ever recorded. His perilous journey resonates with adventure while presenting an unforgettable picture of Islamic civilization during the 14th century.

The Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca that now draws three million Muslims from around the world annually, who come to practice rituals that have taken place for over 1,400 years. In Journey to Mecca, experience the Hajj as Ibn Battuta did over 700 years ago, as well as the Hajj as it is still performed today.

Journey to Mecca was created not just as a documentary about Ibn Battuta’s first Hajj but also as a bridge between the Muslim and Western worlds, built to help develop an understanding of the Hajj and of its ultimate purpose – peace.

In conjunction with the film, the Islamic Dawah Center of Houston presents Sultans of Science. This unique traveling exhibition examines Muslim scholars’ contributions to science and technology, from the explorers of the Middle Ages to Muslim engineers, astronomers and much more.

Now showing in IMAX: Under the Sea 3D, an underwater adventure that transports audiences to uniquely exotic locations for face-to-face encounters with some of the ocean’s most mysterious and unusual creatures. More information on the film is available online at http://www.hmns.org/see_do/imax/underthesea.asp

See more, hear more, feel more in IMAX®. Tickets for Journey to Mecca in the Wortham IMAX® Theater are $11 for adults; $9 for children (3-11), seniors (62+) and students with a valid college ID; and $8 for groups of 20 or more. For tickets, visit http://www.hmns.org/ or call 713-639-4629.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science—one of the nation’s most heavily attended museums—is a centerpiece of the Houston Museum District. With four floors of permanent exhibit halls, and the Wortham IMAX® Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium and George Observatory and as host to world-class and ever-changing touring exhibitions, the Museum has something to delight every age group. With such diverse and extraordinary offerings, a trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, located at One Hermann Circle Drive in the heart of the Museum District, is always an adventure.

Ohio Trip 2009 Concludes with a Grin

Well, our Ohio trip is quickly coming to a close. It's been wonderful. I realized toward the end that because we have a slower schedule here, I've realized how tired I am. As such, I have been able to go to bed at a decent hour, sleep in a bit and take an occasional nap. Ahhh. I'll now return to Houston better rested and ready to conquer a 2-day work week.

Today, I helped PaPa Don remove the old pea vines, till the garden and plant some new vegetables. Little K helped pull up some of the old vines until she fell backward onto her rump. PaPa Don & I roared with laughter. Suddenly, Little K claimed that something bit her leg & she was going inside. I think something maybe bit her pride but that's about it. The rest of the gardening was quite a workout. After a shower, packing and an early lasagna dinner, we'll head to the Dayton airport to begin our return home to Houston. What a wonderful trip. Now I just need to make sure we don't hold off for a year before coming back.

Little K is negotiating her pay with PaPa Don now. It's somewhere between $100 and 40 cents. I'll bet she settles on the lower end of the spectrum. Better go help.

Happy flying. Until the next nap time...

City of Houston's July 4th Celebration

Looking for some fun for July 4th? Read this article for a good description of the City of Houston's fireworks party. It's the largest in the area but, boy, is it crowded. For more ideas on July 4th activities, read my July newsletter. Subscribe online in 2 minutes or less.

Until the next nap time...

More Updates from the Ohio Trip

Yesterday, we had another blast in Ohio with our family. After a quick trip to church, we played, I mean, worked in the garden by picking red potatoes, peas, cucumbers, garlic and (Little K's favorite) raspberries. All this was after filling ourselves with Grammy's famous biscuits & gravy. Who couldn't be successful after a breakfast like that? We topped it all off with those tasty raspberries right off the vine.

Around noon, it was roaring in the 80s and surprisingly hot. I realized how little we work outside during the day in Houston's summer. We headed inside for lunch and what I thought would be nap time. No dice. Little K in PaPa Don's automatic chair and curled up, but only to watch the boob tube. At least she relaxed some.

She later played the flute's that Grammy discovered in her stash and colored a bit. The flutes are proving to be quite entertaining. Little K plays the conductor while PaPa Don & I try to play the flutes to her instruction. It always ends in a comical disaster because we can't keep up with Little K's musical mastery!

Next up, we went to cousin Bentley's house and then to her parents' club pool from 4-6:45 pm. Little K did great at practicing her swimming. Those swim lessons are paying off. When Little K saw Bentley laying on the chaise, Little K decided she wanted to be like Bentley, the big girl. During the pool's adult swim, Little K and cousin Bentley had a few snacks poolside. Bathing beauties (see photo).

For dinner, we returned to Uncle Sean, Aunt Patty and Bentley's house for delicious barbeque. I was so pleased to see Little K and cousin Bentley (almost 9) playing together -- from chalk to catching lightning bugs back at their house. GoGo the yellow lab provided some exercise, too. With no nap on Sunday, Little K fell asleep in the car on the way home but slept soundly all night - in the bed beside me. It's the first time she's ever slept in the bed with me all night. It's nice.

On Monday, we helped PaPa Don pull up the pea vines and till the soil for the next batch of beans. Well, he did most of the work since a long nap was finally in order after lunch. Tonight, we'll eat dinner at 5 pm and then head to a local elementary school where they're showing several movies for families for only $4 each. I can't wait to see how it's done and bring back some good ideas for our own school. PaPa Don is tired from yard work and says he doesn't want to go on the Girls Night. I told him that was fine because "Girls rule. Boys drool." Little K agreed.

More updates from Ohio tomorrow but then our return trip to Houston in the evening. Until the next nap time...

I Eat the Peas. PaPa Don eats the Pods & more from Ohio

Not everyone gets to know their great-grandparents but Little K is different. On Friday, Little K and I flew from Houston to Dayton, Ohio, where we were greeted by PaPa Don & Grammy (my mom's parents).

Now I have to fill you in on the lead up to this trip. As a child, I'd visit Ohio once each summer to bake with Grammy and pick peas in PaPa Don's garden. PaPa Don even wrote a song about our pea-picking adventures that detailed how I ate the peas and he ate the pods. As I grew older, who ate the pods became a bit of a game.

Today, Little K continues by telling PaPa Don that he's stuck eating the pods because she eats the peas. Weeks before our "trip to Mecca", PaPa Don sent her a name tag. He said he hadn't seen Little K in SO LONG that he might not recognize her without the name tag. Artificial pea pods hung from the necklace-like name tag which read: "Hey, PaPa Don. It's me, Little K. I eat the pods." My whipper-snapper daughter quickly instructed me to edit the name tag so that it correctly read "... I eat the peas."

So yesterday, Little K ran to PaPa Don & Grammy, wearing her edited name tag AND a T-shirt that read in large pink letters: "I eat the peas. YOU eat the pods." PaPa Don's camera snapped photos quickly as his great-granddaughter sported her digs. Somehow, I don't think we'll forget the "gotcha" moment at the Dayton airport.

Before heading to PaPa Don & Grammy's house, we stopped by Aunt Kenny and Uncle Brad's house for a delicious chicken dinner. Cousin Lauren, called "the other kid" by Little K, was soon convinced to participate in drawing instructions led by the youngest family member. Interestingly, Lauren is no little kid. She graduated from undergrad at the University of Miami in Ohio in May and will work with children with ADD and ADHD in Cincinnati starting next Monday. Still, she must have been the next youngest attendant at the dinner party so Little K immediately took to her.

The teasing continues today. Uncle Sean made an appearance after riding his bike to PaPa Don & Grammy's house. P U! After Little K scarfed down all the raspberries by herself, we picked peas in the garden. She repeatedly scolded her mother for eating them, saying we needed to save them for inside. She clearly doesn't grasp the concept of finding the fattest pea pods and eating them before PaPa Don does. I, on the other hand, remain the master. We also picked more raspberries and a bright red tomato (for you Mom).

Next up, we began baking a chocolate cake that we later frosted into a 3D Barbie doll cake wearing a pink sun dress. Grammy & I shoved her into the freezer so her icing wouldn't melt. (It's in the 80s here today.) I joked that the two old bits got tired of the pretty princess with the skinny waistline so we SHOVED her in the freezer. It felt good.

A quick trip to an estate sale resulted in treasures for PaPa Don and a cross necklace for K. Who knew $1 necklace would bring so much joy?

Tonight, we'll have ham and stuffed mushrooms with the greater Ohio clan, followed by the dissection of a pink Barbie doll cake. If I don't gain 5 or more pounds this trip, I'll be floored. But the memories are sure to last a lifetime. If only everyone was as blessed as we are.

Until the next nap time...

I Can't Thank You Enough

Our Father's Day was really nice. We spent most of the day in Galveston with my in-laws, honoring Popi as well as my husband Trent, Little K's Daddy. Sunday evening, Trent ran to the grocery while I started the laundry. Luckily for me, my parents stopped by so Little K and I could spend a little time with my dad, PaPa, on Father's Day, too.

Sunday evening before dinner, Little K & I gave Trent his presents. After opening the first one (a selection of spices for grilling from Penzey's Spice), Trent said: "I can't thank you enough."

Little K questioned him on why he could NOT thank her enough, so Trent explained the expression. Then, he opened his next present (a coffee mug with photos of us decorating the sides). "Oh, thank you Little K and Mommy," he said. "I love it."

"I can't 'your welcome' you enough," Little K said. How precious.

Hope your Father's Day was great. Until the next nap time...

"Economy puts a damper on summer camp enrollment"

There's an interesting article in the Houston Chronicle titled "Economy puts a damper on summer camp enrollment". In short, the article says that parents are postponing summer camp until they are positive they can afford it so there are more last-minute enrollments. Other parents are choosing cheaper alternatives (day camp versus over-nights, local camps versus international trips).

The article cites parents pulling money from their 401Ks to fund summer camp, which seems nightmare-ish to me since you pay hefty fines for pulling early from a 401K and that certainly depletes your savings. Little K is in year-round day care/nursery school until next year but I'm keenly aware of the needed options for affordable, quality summer camp.

How do you keep your kids busy during the summer without breaking the budget? Working parents need options during the day for sure. My book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids offers loads of fun activities but does not substitute for day care/summer camp. My guidebook suggests affordable activities for families outside work/school hours. So really, what are your plans for keeping your little ones occupied during work hours? Please post your ideas to the blog through comments. Thanks.

Until the next nap time...

Road Trip Weekend

Little K has made leaps and bounds at swimming lessons over the last two weeks. I think the ration of one teacher to 3 kids is wonderful. Plus, Little K listens better to an instructor versus a parent when in the water. She's so proud of herself, too. She's finally putting her face in the water (YEAH!) and yesterday she opened her eyes under water. This is a big deal for my 4-year-old. Plus, the instructor's backyard is an oasis and melts away my stress as I watch from the patio, the fan blowing a breeze across my face. Ahhh...

This weekend, we are heading to Sulphur Springs, TX. to visit my mother-in-law's sister and extended family. (Thanks to Karen at Pet Pals of Houston for house sitting and pet sitting all weekend!) While Little K met two of her Sulphur Springs cousins a few years ago, she barely remembers them. I'm excited for her to see the small town in east Texas where her grandmother, CiCi, grew up. Of course, getting to know her (now) three Sulphur Springs cousins is important. I've been amazed at how many people don't know their first cousins. Our family has been blessed to even know fourth cousins. Maintaining those relationships has provided such connection in my own life that I believe it's fundamental for my daughter. Enough of my soap box.

So small-town Sulphur Springs will host the Dairy Festival this weekend, which includes a parade, hot air balloon race and more. Since my mother-in-law was crowned the Dairy Festival Queen many moons ago (yes, everyone giggles. It's great!), we thought this would be an ideal time to visit. I can't wait to report back.

Hope you all have a great weekend whereever life takes you. Until the next nap time...

Frightening Fuzzy's Pizza

Thought I should share this disturbing tale about Fuzzy's Pizza in Houston to keep parents and grandparents aware.

I am still at a loss for words over the verbal assault that took place last night, Monday June 1st, 2009, at the hands of the owner of Fuzzy's Pizza on Antoine Drive..all less than three feet from my 2 year old son who was in my arms. Even more amazing is what set this man off is the fact that he couldn't fill a to-go order completely.

I had my 2 year old son with me, we had paid and were waiting on the order. The buzzer went off and we went to the counter where the owner handed me one salad. I told him we had two salads and four slices of pizza. Frustrated at that point, he went back to the kitchen and returned with the pizza slices. I told him we were still missing one salad and he went irate. He screamed "I didn't take your order!" I told him he needed to calm down, that I was just trying to get what I ordered. At this point he began yelling "F--- You, I am the owner, F--- You". This was all about three feet from my son, whom I was holding. He then came around from behind the counter to get closer to me and my son, as he continued with the F--- You's, even with me saying "I have a baby here".

When I looked at my son, he was shaking and crying as he looked at this man still screaming at us, so I got him out of there.

Sadly, we live in a world where a father can't protect his son and put another man with these character traits in his place, as I would certainly be facing lawsuits if I had laid a hand on him. So my only move is too spread the word about this place and what other parents could be exposing their children to. My wife and I looked at restaurant reviews last night and sure enough these owners have made it common place to cuss and scream at patrons because of their own frustrations. It was always between two adults up until last night, when this man involved my 2 year old child.

My hope is that all who read this will (i) never go to Fuzzy's Pizza again, and (ii) forward this email to all you know. The only way to get back at this man who holds absolutely no concern for children is to hit him where it hurts, his business.

Thanks for taking time to read and if this infuriates you as it has me, please forward to other Houstonians. Several people have already informed me they will be sending personal letters to the restaurant to advise the owners they have become aware of this incident (feel free to use my name) and will never eat at Fuzzy's Pizza again. If you'd like to also send a letter, their address is:
Fuzzy's Pizza at 823 Antoine Drive Houston, Texas 77024
Thanks, David

Until the next nap time...

Double the Doctor Visits

Yesterday, we did double duty with doctors. First, we took Dutch, our puppy, to the vet to be neutered. Veterinarian Dr. Clint said he'd call me when Dutch was finished with the procedure and waking up. When my phone rang during a meeting just before 8:30 am, I was shocked -- well, terrified at what could be wrong. In fact, it took less than an hour for the neutering process and now Dutch is running about as if he just had a nap. Phew!

Yesterday afternoon, Little K had her 4 year old visit to the pediatrician. A full check up and FOUR SHOTS later, Little K was tearfully eating ice cream. What a day!

Until the next nap time...

Cheap Summer Movies in Houston

I love a good movie. While NetFlix is super convenient, there's just something to be said about a movie theater. Luckily, the MarquE on I10 will be hosting the Family Film Festival again this summer, which includes FREE G- and PG-rated movies at 10 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It's a great treat for families looking for a way to escape the heat. See the image to the right for the movie line up based on date.

Not to be outdone, the new Studio Movie Grill at Town & Country (called City Centre) combines dinner & a movie. The seating is roomier than traditional theatre seats and a waiter/waitress brings a menu and food to your table.

Yesterday, our family went to see "UP" and really enjoyed it. My husband and I agree that we'll be hard pressed to go to a "regular" movie theatre again.

The movie "UP" was entertaining and wove in some positive messages (like don't wait until you have enough money to make your dreams come true. Do it now.) We saw the 3D version so we needed to wear the provided 3D glasses. Little K did not care for that so instead she watched the somewhat blurry show without the 3D glasses. Oh well.

One tip: make sure you grab your credit card at the end of the movie. My husband accidentally grabbed the receipt but not his credit card. Oops! Overall, you'll spend the same amount for admission here as a traditional movie. And the lunch/dinner prices are the same as most restaurants so why not combine the two? Just don't overorder like we did by ordering popcorn snacks AND lunch!

Studio Movie Grill will be featuring the "2009 Summer Movie Series" with $1 kids movies this summer at 11 am Monday - Thursday. Adult tickets are $2. If it's rainy or just too hot, this would be a cool way to have lunch and a movie. The summer line up is on the Web site or you can peak at the graphic posted here. Enjoy!

Until the next nap time...

Great Summer Opportunity for Kids under 15 Years

When I found out about this family-oriented and community-outreach program, I begged for the details. It's called the "Friends For Life Tuck-in Service" at Friends for Life (FFL) and is a cool way to help local animals without having to adopt another one.

This is a weekday 4:30-6 pm program in which young people under 15 and their families "tuck in" the FFL cats for the day including feeding, cleaning and even reading a story to the kitties. FFL has told the cats that they are about to have extended family and they are very excited! From a parents' perspective, this teaches kids the needed responsibilities of caring for pets, charting the tasks completed and even measurement when kids measure the food scoops.

Join Carol and Peggy at the Center on 19th Street in the Heights for the first training Tuesday, June 2, 2009 4:30- 6 pm here at the 19th Street Center at 246 W 19th. All training/tuck in sessions will be held in the same 4:30-6 pm time slot. Each family will receive a manual at training.

FFL will be doing several training evenings in the next few weeks. They want to make sure everyone has plenty of individual attention, so they are limiting each training session to two families at a time. After completing your initial training, FFL welcomes your participation in training new families in the program.

Please take a look at the scheduled training evenings below and email Peggy Clark (peggy@adoptfriends4life.org) to let them know which time slot works best for you and your family. Please also list a 2nd date option as a back-up alternative. They will contact you to confirm your tuck-in appointment.

Week 1:
Tues June 2
Wed June 3
Thurs June 4

Week 2:
Tues June 9
Wed June 10
Thurs June 11

Ice Cream, Restaurant and Jump Opportunities

WHO CAN PASS UP an opportunity for free ice cream? Not me! Head to your local Wal-Mart for free ice cream this Saturday, May 30, from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free goodies include Dibs Snack Bag, Blue Bunny Aspen Frozen Yogurt Granola Bar, and Ben & Jerry’s Flipped Out Cup. Customers will receive one free sample per customer while supplies last.

The chance that I REALLY love is Baskin-Robbins, which is offering a free soft-serve ice cream cone with its “I Serve, You Serve” promotion. If you become a member of DoSomething.org, they’ll e-mail you a coupon for the free Baskin-Robbins cone. DoSomething.org is a great resource for finding worthy causes that you care about and then getting involved. Especially cool is the fact that the site shares easy to understand facts about the cause of choice and little things you can do to contribute with local action. Fill out an online form at DoSomething.org to get in on the deal. The coupon will be delivered to your inbox as part of their July 13 e-blast.

Looking for cheap things to do in Houston with or without kids? Check out http://www.houstononthecheap.com/, another blog focused on the inexpensive. I will guest blog there soon.

Also, Sonia wrote in with this tip that I'll have to check out. It's been years since I've gone to this restaurant but the addition of the kid area sounds great:
"Great restaurant: La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant. This restaurant sits across from Telge park. It has a lot of character (vintage cars parked out front, lots of pottery, heavy metal chairs, etc. It has the largest covered patio you have ever seen with a tunnel system for the children to play in while you enjoy your margarita. Just avoid it in mid-summer because the tunnels get hot and your children will look like they came out of a sauna. Every mom in northwest Houston loves this place after a morning playdate at Telge park."

Shannon wrote in: "I saw your post on Monkey Joe’s and wondered if you have visited: http://www.stompinggroundsplayland.com/ . I went for a playdate for Little F a few months ago and it was not bad. You can eat there, which is nice and it wasn’t crowded (of course it probably will be now that it is summer). Too bad it is in Sugarland." Agreed, Shannon. We live in central Houston so we're constantly looking for places that are close. I'd rather spend the money on a fun activity than gas.

Until the next nap time...

Another Inflatable Bounce Houses Coming to Houston

Just read in the Houston Business Journal that Monkey Joe's will be opening locations in west Houston, the Willowbrook area and in Humble. "Monkey Joe's caters to children ages two to 12 with giant air-filled structures, obstacle courses and developmental games. The locations also feature private party rooms with on-site party planning and concession items, as well as a parent's lounge." You got me at the parent's lounge.

I'm not sure if this place will truly be any different from those options already in Houston but when it first opens, it'll at least be clean. See you at the parents' lounge. The first location will open by the end of the year.

Until the next nap time...

Motherhood Lessons on Mother's Day

This morning at church, Fr. Clint said 90 percent of life is just showing up... even when as a mother you may need a break and want to make a run for it. How pertinent.

Every mom runs into times when it seems she could pull her hair out but instead she pulls her hair back and continues to rear her children. The job doesn't get much thanks yet we continue. Why? Here are a few of my favorite reasons to continue being a Mom and the best Mom that I can be:

• her big brown eyes continue to look up to me. I don't want to set anything but a good example.
• when I make her blueberry muffins on a week crazed with meetings and the swine flu, she smiles and appreciates it.
• I can do small things and she notices.
• My mom would have done it. I had a great example to follow.
• It can actually relieve my stress to cook with Little K and watch her stir the pot or finish a puzzle or go for a walk. Taking time out to focus just on her reminds me of the simple things in life that bring joy.

While my list could go on and on, I'm sure each of you also have your own list swimming in your heads. Good. I also know there are days when I need to look back at this list. At least now I knwo where to find it.
Fr. Clint also retold a story about when he was in seminary and attended a Q&A with the bishop. When Fr. Clint asked what the bishop thought about priest burnout, the bishop responded that he didn't believe it was possible. "To burn out, you must first be on fire," he said. Our congregation laughed and I did, too, but I thought of the fire differently.
Is your parenting spirit on fire? Alive and visible for all to see, including those little feet behind you? I want to be someone who is obviously so happy to be a parent, that others don't have to ask. They will know I am thrilled by the way I look and act. Don't get me wrong, I know there are those challenging days. When I need a boost of fresh air, I'll remind myself of the reasons I continue to nurture my child and why motherhood really matters. I have an impact.
The sermon this morning also reminded me how important it is to stay connected to others as a way to avoid burnout and stay charged. From parenting groups to volunteering through Church and talking to a friend or family member, when we feel connected to another group, we feel supported. I have found that the connections that I have made in my community and in Little K's school have been so positive. We share our child-rearing experiences and work challenges but walk away knowing that most other parents are facing similar obstacles. Together, we can try again tomorrow and know that a spare spit rag or party costume is just a call away.
Even if I am a bit lost from time to time, or frustrated by the sassy young girl that I call daughter, I will show up and I will be on fire. See you there.
Until the next nap time...