Yesterday evening, the Kids Activity Queen was on the Sunday evening show with Susan O'Donnell on 89.3 KSBJ radio. How fun! We gave away four copies of the guidebook 100+ Activities for Houston Kids and took questions from various Houston parents about fun things to do with kids in the area. It never ceases to amaze me how much families want to do fun activities with kids, if only they had a trusted resource to get them going. Ta-da! My guidebook exists for this purpose. Any ways, it was a great way to get the message out about the book. A special thanks goes to Sally Woodward, who called into the show. Miss Sally is an old friend who watched my sister and me grow up in Houston along side her own 2 daughters. Thanks for your support, Miss Sally!
This month, Kylie & I will be venturing out to tackle some new activities. On Valentine's Day, we'll be headed to the Dairy Ashford Roller Rink in west Houston for the 1st Annual Valentine Skate. Parents can bring strollers for the little ones and still have fun making trips around the rink. Kiddie music plays and the children are going to love this. Hope to see lots of Houston families there. 9:30 am - Noon.
We're also planning to head to the Museum of Natural Science and Hermann Park for some fun. I'll be sure to report back on the museum's offerings for kids under 1 year.
Unfortunately, we'll miss the Rodeo Parade this year because we're heading to Galveston for the Childrens Parade on 2/26. This is good, clean fun for the family. Kids love the colors and activity. Catching beads and cups just for wavering to the float riders is a delight. The parade is scheduled to begin at 2 pm on 25th Street. Hope to see you there.
If you are wondering about certain Houston-area activities for kids, email me at KidsInfo@houston.rr.com and I'll be happy to check out the activity and report back. Until the next nap time...
Monday, January 30, 2006
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Weekend Activities on KSBJ 89.3 Radio
Just after 7 am Thursdays, I'll be helping families find fun kids activities for the following weekend. If you're looking for something to do in Houston this next weekend, tune in to 89.3 for some great ideas. You can also pick up my guidebook 100+ Activities for Houston Kids at Barnes & Noble stores city-wide, other bookstores & online at www.TellYourTale.com/Kids. Unleash the fun!
Until the next nap time...
Until the next nap time...
Monday, January 23, 2006
Kids Love Galveston Beach & More
The weather was cold and foggy, but my 9 month old daughter Kylie really enjoyed Pirates Beach in Galveston Sunday. Too cold to swim, mommy and baby took a stroll on the sandy beach. Kylie loved to watch the frothy tide chase her up the beach and she giggled when mommy ran up the beach juggling the baby. We found beautiful shells, although the really pretty ones were broken. Kylie seemed to really like the birds that canvassed the sand and flew low in the skies above our heads.
A lot of Houstonians grumble when they hear "Galveston", but I encourage them to take another look. The beach itself provides a wonderful learning opportunity for youngsters. (I showed Kylie hundreds of shells scattered about & told her there were more people in the city of Houston than that. As she gets older, examples like this will help her put things into perspective.) We find the island a great relaxation destination. Great seafood is everywhere, too, and most restaurants are very family-oriented. Waterman's Restaurant on the west end of the island was perfect Saturday night with my little one. The staff was very considerate of the baby and Kylie enjoyed the bread and snacks they provided. Plus, Mardi Gras is just around the corner in February and there are a couple of really good children's parades. Check it out.
Until the next nap time...
A lot of Houstonians grumble when they hear "Galveston", but I encourage them to take another look. The beach itself provides a wonderful learning opportunity for youngsters. (I showed Kylie hundreds of shells scattered about & told her there were more people in the city of Houston than that. As she gets older, examples like this will help her put things into perspective.) We find the island a great relaxation destination. Great seafood is everywhere, too, and most restaurants are very family-oriented. Waterman's Restaurant on the west end of the island was perfect Saturday night with my little one. The staff was very considerate of the baby and Kylie enjoyed the bread and snacks they provided. Plus, Mardi Gras is just around the corner in February and there are a couple of really good children's parades. Check it out.
Until the next nap time...
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Weekend with the Kids
89.3 KSBJ will be playing an interview I did today with highlights on what Houston parents & grandparents can do with their kids this weekend. I even feature a no-charge activity that kids love. Tune into 89.3 Friday between 7 and 9 am to hear these tips.
Kylie & I joined StrollerFit West U this morning and really enjoyed it. My body is still sore from Monday's workout with StrollerFit Memorial Park. Whew! This queen is starting to realize how much I need to work out, but StrollerFit makes it fun for mom and baby. Plus, it's hard to resist playground time after a good workout.
We have a new kitten that's hanging around our backyard. It's mother is a local stray, I think. At 9 months old, my daughter Kylie gets so excited when this little kitten appears at the back door and mouths a meow. Our own cat is 2-3 times the size of the neighborhood kitty, but our cat seems a bit jealous. It reminds me that many kids love animals and are intrigued by their different textures (furs). We went to a birthday party last Saturday that had a wonderful petting zoo. I'll have to investigate another petting zoo or activity with animals and post an update. I love to indulge my daughter's curiousities.
Until the next nap time...
Kylie & I joined StrollerFit West U this morning and really enjoyed it. My body is still sore from Monday's workout with StrollerFit Memorial Park. Whew! This queen is starting to realize how much I need to work out, but StrollerFit makes it fun for mom and baby. Plus, it's hard to resist playground time after a good workout.
We have a new kitten that's hanging around our backyard. It's mother is a local stray, I think. At 9 months old, my daughter Kylie gets so excited when this little kitten appears at the back door and mouths a meow. Our own cat is 2-3 times the size of the neighborhood kitty, but our cat seems a bit jealous. It reminds me that many kids love animals and are intrigued by their different textures (furs). We went to a birthday party last Saturday that had a wonderful petting zoo. I'll have to investigate another petting zoo or activity with animals and post an update. I love to indulge my daughter's curiousities.
Until the next nap time...
Monday, January 16, 2006
Fun for Kids at Memorial Park
With rain imminent in this week's forecast for Houston, we decided to join some friends at Memorial Park on Sunday while the weather was still pleasant. We sat on a blanket just outside Beck's Prime and played for 2 hours. This really is a relaxing afternoon for parents & kids. Plus, you can grab some lunch and a tasty dessert like a vanilla shake. I got a large but Kylie shared it with me... No, really I didn't eat that whole thing by myself. Hee, hee. Kylie and her new friend Caroline had a ball in the monkey grass and crawling or walking in the grass. Sarah and I just hung out and watched the little ones. Ahhhh. If only it had been a tad warmer, I would have gotten some sunshine on my face.
This morning, Kylie and I test-piloted StrollerFit at Memorial Park. Some of you may remember that we tried a StrollerFit group in west Houston. Memorial Park is a lot closer so we joined up. It's a great workout for moms and it's nice to get the little ones outside a bit. Kids range in age from 3 months to 4 years old. It's also a great way to meet other moms in the area with children around the same age. This gets a big thumbs up in my book.
Whitney Clark leads a 9:30 am class Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:30 - 10:30 am at Memorial Park and then Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10:30 am at Colonial Park in West U. The scheduling is flexible so you don't have to feel rushed to make a class because you paid for it. You pay for a certain number of classes over a period of months and then join when it works for you & your baby. Plus, there's fun singing and playing with your child or children during the workout. Check it out at www.StrollerFit.com.
Until the next nap time...
This morning, Kylie and I test-piloted StrollerFit at Memorial Park. Some of you may remember that we tried a StrollerFit group in west Houston. Memorial Park is a lot closer so we joined up. It's a great workout for moms and it's nice to get the little ones outside a bit. Kids range in age from 3 months to 4 years old. It's also a great way to meet other moms in the area with children around the same age. This gets a big thumbs up in my book.
Whitney Clark leads a 9:30 am class Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:30 - 10:30 am at Memorial Park and then Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10:30 am at Colonial Park in West U. The scheduling is flexible so you don't have to feel rushed to make a class because you paid for it. You pay for a certain number of classes over a period of months and then join when it works for you & your baby. Plus, there's fun singing and playing with your child or children during the workout. Check it out at www.StrollerFit.com.
Until the next nap time...
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Guidebook Featured on Radio
I knew something was up when my mobile phone wouldn't stop ringing at 7 am today. I was -- for once-- still in bed after an incredibly long Wednesday. After listening to messages, I raced to the stereo downstairs to hear 89.3 KSBJ playing my interview about 100+ Activities for Houston Kids that we recorded yesterday. Yeah! That should help get the word out about the guidebook.
We've also booked a book signing party on Galveston island. Midsummer Books will be hosting our party on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 4-6 p.m. All are welcome. It'll be great to get parents, grandparents & kids together. See you then.
This Saturday night, Jan. 14, is kids night at the Houston Rockets game. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. and will feature 6 NBA mascots from across the nation. This is a great family activity. Age recommendation is 3+ years.
We're still knocking around some ideas of fun kids activities for this weekend. Check back here for more ideas & I'll report on what we find. Next week, we'll be joining StrollerFit at Memorial Park on Monday. Kylie & I are looking forward to meeting the group.
We've also booked a book signing party on Galveston island. Midsummer Books will be hosting our party on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 4-6 p.m. All are welcome. It'll be great to get parents, grandparents & kids together. See you then.
This Saturday night, Jan. 14, is kids night at the Houston Rockets game. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. and will feature 6 NBA mascots from across the nation. This is a great family activity. Age recommendation is 3+ years.
We're still knocking around some ideas of fun kids activities for this weekend. Check back here for more ideas & I'll report on what we find. Next week, we'll be joining StrollerFit at Memorial Park on Monday. Kylie & I are looking forward to meeting the group.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Book Store Signing Successful; Lots of Kids
It was a great book signing party tonight at the River Oaks Book Store. Thank you to all of you who made it. It was also great to see so many little ones -- faces eager to explore and learn more about their surroundings. I hope to start organizing informal groups that want to tackle local activities in town with me. I'll post notes here and see who wants to head to another fun kids activity.
I also got some good feedback on additions for the 2007 edition of 100+ Activities for Houston Kids so that's really exciting. After a jam-packed day of promotions and other writing needs, I'm pooped and headed for bed. Hopefully, tomorrow we'll hear the radio interview on 89.3 KSBJ. Stay tuned!
Until the next nap time...
I also got some good feedback on additions for the 2007 edition of 100+ Activities for Houston Kids so that's really exciting. After a jam-packed day of promotions and other writing needs, I'm pooped and headed for bed. Hopefully, tomorrow we'll hear the radio interview on 89.3 KSBJ. Stay tuned!
Until the next nap time...
Activities for Kids Showcased on Radio?
Early this morning, I headed out to Humble to do an appearance on 89.3 KSBJ. We did a recording but unfortunately, the interview likely won't run until Thursday or Friday. I guess I should have expected that since I told so many of you to tune in this morning. Sorry! I'll post an update here when the radio station notifies me that the interview will run, but it should be Thursday or Friday morning. Thanks to all of you who tuned in today, especially those folks in Ohio! Your support is appreciated more than you realize.
Good news! I'm scheduled to be on Susan O'Donnell's Sunday evening show on January 29. I hope you will tune in from 6-8 pm when we'll be talking about my guidebook 100+ Activities for Houston Kids -- the 2006 version that's packed with fun activities for kids. AND, Susan and Mike of KSBJ will be calling me each Thursday morning so I can give KSBJ listeners 2 things to do for the weekend. How's that for planning a fun-filled weekend with the kids? I hope you'll tune in and check this blog for updates and/or changes.
Don't forget to join us at the River Oaks Book Store tonight between 4 and 6 pm for my first book signing party! It'll be a fun way to meet other parents & grandparents interested in spending more time with their little ones. The River Oaks Book Store is located on Westheimer near Buffalo Speedway across the street from Lamar High School. Stop by to grab your copy of my guidebook and mingle with like-minded parents & grandparents.
Until the next nap time...
Good news! I'm scheduled to be on Susan O'Donnell's Sunday evening show on January 29. I hope you will tune in from 6-8 pm when we'll be talking about my guidebook 100+ Activities for Houston Kids -- the 2006 version that's packed with fun activities for kids. AND, Susan and Mike of KSBJ will be calling me each Thursday morning so I can give KSBJ listeners 2 things to do for the weekend. How's that for planning a fun-filled weekend with the kids? I hope you'll tune in and check this blog for updates and/or changes.
Don't forget to join us at the River Oaks Book Store tonight between 4 and 6 pm for my first book signing party! It'll be a fun way to meet other parents & grandparents interested in spending more time with their little ones. The River Oaks Book Store is located on Westheimer near Buffalo Speedway across the street from Lamar High School. Stop by to grab your copy of my guidebook and mingle with like-minded parents & grandparents.
Until the next nap time...
Monday, January 09, 2006
Kids Activities Highlighted on Local Radio
Wow! I'm so excited. I just spoke with DJ Susan O'Donnell of 89.3 KSBJ. For those of you unfamiliar with this station, it's Houston's contemporary Christian radio station. See www.KSBJ.org for details. Susan has invited me to visit the Morning Show this Wednesday, January 11 at 7 am to discuss my guidebook 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. YES! Please tune in and wish me luck. I think this will be a great way to promote my guidebook to parents & grandparents who really want the best for the children in their lives. I'll also be discussing 3-5 fun activities to do over the next month with kids in Houston. We'll make it easy for adults to find fun activities for kids.
Until the next nap time...
Until the next nap time...
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Kids Activities Abound
After a bit of a holiday break, I'm back and dedicated to writing regularly in this blog. I hope others will share their ideas for topics to cover or recommend kids activities that they'd like to know more about.
One Houston mom asked me over the holidays if I was familiar with the Angels light park. Several moms began discussing it. Apparently, it used to be a park of holiday (or dare I say, "Christmas") lights that families could drive through in their cars. With little ones, families really appreciated the fact that they didn't have to load, unload and reload the kids. Unfortunately, no one seems to be able to find this attraction any more. If you're familiar with it, please let me know so I can investigate it and let other parents & grandparents know.
However, I did find a similar holiday attraction that blew our family away. This is a great kids activity or family event. Last week, our family visited "Santa's Wonderland" in College Station, Texas. I admit, I was shocked at the $20 entry fee per car, but afterward, we felt like we got a good deal. (Note: the attraction allows up to 10 people per car for $20. Additional charges then apply. So, pack your car full and then divide the $20 fee between families for the best deal.) There were literally millions of lights, including tunnels of lights, beautiful Christmas scenes, and even a dedicated area for the Aggies in the crowd. (You have to consider that Texas A&M University is in the same town.) While there are definitely Christian exhibits, I think my Jewish and Muslim friends who celebrate the commercial holidays in December would still find this a fun event. Next December, I'll write more on this event along with tips for making the trip easier and fun.
I'm also excited to announce my first book signing on January 11 from 4-6 p.m. at the River Oaks Bookstore on Westheimer. All are invited to attend. Copies of my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids will be available for purchase and the party will be a great way to kick off the New Year focused on your family. I hope you'll join us. For more details, please visit http://www.prweb.com/releases/2006/1/prweb327089.htm.
2006 is going to be a great year for Houston families. There are so many fun kids activities to explore. We hope to see you and your little ones around town.
Until the next nap time...
One Houston mom asked me over the holidays if I was familiar with the Angels light park. Several moms began discussing it. Apparently, it used to be a park of holiday (or dare I say, "Christmas") lights that families could drive through in their cars. With little ones, families really appreciated the fact that they didn't have to load, unload and reload the kids. Unfortunately, no one seems to be able to find this attraction any more. If you're familiar with it, please let me know so I can investigate it and let other parents & grandparents know.
However, I did find a similar holiday attraction that blew our family away. This is a great kids activity or family event. Last week, our family visited "Santa's Wonderland" in College Station, Texas. I admit, I was shocked at the $20 entry fee per car, but afterward, we felt like we got a good deal. (Note: the attraction allows up to 10 people per car for $20. Additional charges then apply. So, pack your car full and then divide the $20 fee between families for the best deal.) There were literally millions of lights, including tunnels of lights, beautiful Christmas scenes, and even a dedicated area for the Aggies in the crowd. (You have to consider that Texas A&M University is in the same town.) While there are definitely Christian exhibits, I think my Jewish and Muslim friends who celebrate the commercial holidays in December would still find this a fun event. Next December, I'll write more on this event along with tips for making the trip easier and fun.
I'm also excited to announce my first book signing on January 11 from 4-6 p.m. at the River Oaks Bookstore on Westheimer. All are invited to attend. Copies of my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids will be available for purchase and the party will be a great way to kick off the New Year focused on your family. I hope you'll join us. For more details, please visit http://www.prweb.com/releases/2006/1/prweb327089.htm.
2006 is going to be a great year for Houston families. There are so many fun kids activities to explore. We hope to see you and your little ones around town.
Until the next nap time...
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Houston Zoo Still Fun for Kids
Today, we took a family trip to the Houston Zoo. The adults found ourselves comparing the Zoo of our young days to the current venue. Wow! A lot has changed and our children have so much more to see and experience. Our daughter Kylie especially enjoyed the petting zoo, including the chickens, sheep, goats and more. While December and January are great months to visit the Zoo, I would still suggest going at opening time. We got there at 3 pm and the parking lot was packed. My husband joked: "Too bad the Zoo closes in two hours. It'll take us an hour to get to the front gate." The temp was a nice 78 today but usually I'd advise bringing a coat. I'd also bring a change of clothes for the little ones since the Zoo has added the dancing fountains that more and more places are including to add some fun for the kids. The Zoo gets a gold star for traditional family fun... even after all the years!
Until the next nap time...
Until the next nap time...
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Exercising Moms & Kids Get Thumbs Up
Kylie & I participated in StrollerFit west Houston this morning. This is a great activity for moms and kids under ~ age 4. And you know, there aren't a lot of activities for that age group. The instructor Lorie did a great job of exercising the moms while keeping the kids engaged. We sang childrens songs such as "The Wheels on the Bus" and "Frosty the Snowman," which the kids loved. The moms exercised to the tunes. There was even fun interaction between moms and kiddos like tickling and giggling. This is such a great way to interact with our kids while being healthy that I plan to look into the StrollerFit program at Memorial Park, which is a little closer to my house. Anyone else care to join us? More details are available at www.StrollerFit.com. Thanks to Lorie & the crew!
One more note: I'm not the only one who thinks this is a great activity. Oprah will be filming StrollerFit in Houston on December 29. Now how's that for an endorsement!
One more note: I'm not the only one who thinks this is a great activity. Oprah will be filming StrollerFit in Houston on December 29. Now how's that for an endorsement!
Monday, December 19, 2005
Fun Kids Activities in December
My daughter Kylie & I will be attending our first StrollerFit (see www.StrollerFit.com) with the west Houston group on Tuesday, 12/20 at 9 a.m. After class, I'll be making my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids available for purchase and I'll be giving each class participant a FREE listing of 5 fun activities for the kids before the end of the year. If you're interested in some of those activities as well as tips for not pulling your hair out during the holidays, check out my article "Holiday Activities for Families Made Easy," which is available online at
http://EzineArticles.com/?id=97718.
Unfortunately, Borders on Kirby Drive still does not have the guidebook available for purchase. If you are in that area of town, try BookStop on Kirby or the River Oaks Bookshop across the street from Lamar High School. I'll post an update when Borders gets those books in.
Until the next nap time...
http://EzineArticles.com/?id=97718.
Unfortunately, Borders on Kirby Drive still does not have the guidebook available for purchase. If you are in that area of town, try BookStop on Kirby or the River Oaks Bookshop across the street from Lamar High School. I'll post an update when Borders gets those books in.
Until the next nap time...
Saturday, December 17, 2005
StrollerFit as Option for Moms & Children?
I'm excited about a new mother & child option. Well, it's new to me. I'll be joining a Houston StrollerFit group either on Tuesday, 12/20 or Thursday, 12/22 at 9 am. (We're still trying to determine if we should postpone our Tuesday date due to potential rain.) I'll post an update here when I know for sure which date. From what I understand so far, StrollerFit is an opportunity for moms and their young children to exercise together. Moms walk & jog while the kids get some fresh air in their strollers. Plus, the moms are led through a light cardio workout by an instructor. The fun part is that during the holidays, the group uses things like jingle bells to exercise and the kids are entertained. I think it'll be fun to investigate and I'll be sure to report back. There are 8 StrollerFit groups in Houston. I'll be attending the one that meets at Terry Hershey Park in west Houston. More info to come. See www.StrollerFit.com for details.
Last night, I spoke with my friend Kelly who is battling cancer. It was an interesting conversation as she updated me on her 1st chemo treatment. She said that, while they had been trying to get pregnant, she was glad that she didn't have a young one yet. We both agreed that it's best for her to focus on getting herself better now & then worry about having kids after she's defeated the cancer.
Talking about this made me realize just how lucky I am... on so many fronts. No, I don't have cancer and yes, I do have a wonderful little girl. How odd it is to think back to a few years ago when my husband & I struggled to get pregnant. I also wonder how many women struggle with infertility quietly, feeling like they are alone. I suppose it goes to prove that there's a plan for each of us & while we don't always understand it, it's important to accept. It's also a difficult but good lesson to teach our little ones. As a parent, I'll try to show my daughter this lesson using the challenges I face. I think that will also show her the real human side of me so she knows we all face these things. Just because I'm an adult doesn't mean I don't struggle. Something for me to ponder.
Until the next nap time...
Last night, I spoke with my friend Kelly who is battling cancer. It was an interesting conversation as she updated me on her 1st chemo treatment. She said that, while they had been trying to get pregnant, she was glad that she didn't have a young one yet. We both agreed that it's best for her to focus on getting herself better now & then worry about having kids after she's defeated the cancer.
Talking about this made me realize just how lucky I am... on so many fronts. No, I don't have cancer and yes, I do have a wonderful little girl. How odd it is to think back to a few years ago when my husband & I struggled to get pregnant. I also wonder how many women struggle with infertility quietly, feeling like they are alone. I suppose it goes to prove that there's a plan for each of us & while we don't always understand it, it's important to accept. It's also a difficult but good lesson to teach our little ones. As a parent, I'll try to show my daughter this lesson using the challenges I face. I think that will also show her the real human side of me so she knows we all face these things. Just because I'm an adult doesn't mean I don't struggle. Something for me to ponder.
Until the next nap time...
I'm excited about a new mother & child option. Well, it's new to me. I'll be joining a Houston StrollerFit group either on Tuesday, 12/20 or Thursday, 12/22 at 9 am. (We're still trying to determine if we should postpone our Tuesday date due to potential rain.) I'll post an update here when I know for sure which date. From what I understand so far, StrollerFit is an opportunity for moms and their young children to exercise together. Moms walk & jog while the kids get some fresh air in their strollers. Plus, the moms are led through a light cardio workout by an instructor. The fun part is that during the holidays, the group uses things like jingle bells to exercise and the kids are entertained. I think it'll be fun to investigate and I'll be sure to report back. There are 8 StrollerFit groups in Houston. I'll be attending the one that meets at Terry Hershey Park in west Houston. More info to come. See www.StrollerFit.com for details.
Last night, I spoke with my friend Kelly who is battling cancer. It was an interesting conversation as she updated me on her 1st chemo treatment. She said that, while they had been trying to get pregnant, she was glad that she didn't have a young one yet. We both agreed that it's best for her to focus on getting herself better now & then worry about having kids after she's defeated the cancer.
Talking about this made me realize just how lucky I am... on so many fronts. No, I don't have cancer and yes, I do have a wonderful little girl. How odd it is to think back to a few years ago when my husband & I struggled to get pregnant. I also wonder how many women struggle with infertility quietly, feeling like they are alone. I suppose it goes to prove that there's a plan for each of us & while we don't always understand it, it's important to accept. It's also a difficult but good lesson to teach our little ones. As a parent, I'll try to show my daughter this lesson using the challenges I face. I think that will also show her the real human side of me so she knows we all face these things. Just because I'm an adult doesn't mean I don't struggle. Something for me to ponder.
Until the next nap time...
Last night, I spoke with my friend Kelly who is battling cancer. It was an interesting conversation as she updated me on her 1st chemo treatment. She said that, while they had been trying to get pregnant, she was glad that she didn't have a young one yet. We both agreed that it's best for her to focus on getting herself better now & then worry about having kids after she's defeated the cancer.
Talking about this made me realize just how lucky I am... on so many fronts. No, I don't have cancer and yes, I do have a wonderful little girl. How odd it is to think back to a few years ago when my husband & I struggled to get pregnant. I also wonder how many women struggle with infertility quietly, feeling like they are alone. I suppose it goes to prove that there's a plan for each of us & while we don't always understand it, it's important to accept. It's also a difficult but good lesson to teach our little ones. As a parent, I'll try to show my daughter this lesson using the challenges I face. I think that will also show her the real human side of me so she knows we all face these things. Just because I'm an adult doesn't mean I don't struggle. Something for me to ponder.
Until the next nap time...
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
In Mad Rush for Gifts, Remember Love (& Luck) of Kids
Well, the holidays are in full swing and there's just nothing like trying to get all those gifts before Christmas Day. Kylie & I ventured out after her morning nap today, but Kylie decided she was revolting against her normal nap schedule. Luck would have it. I raced through this store and that one & then headed home. I figure you just can't ask too much for an 8 month old.
A good friend of mine has been diagnosed with cancer and begins chemo on Thursday. See her blog at http://lesterlink.blogspot.com/. Besides being a life-threatening illness that demands its presence be known, my girlfriend & her husband are now forced to postpone having children. And yes, they are wondering about the effects the chemo will have on future child-bearing years. But all of this makes me realize how lucky we are to have children. When you think of every thing that could go wrong, it's amazing any of us survived to have kids of our own. So the next time you're rushing out the door to grab that great book for your sister, remember the little ones just don't understand. Stop & look in their eyes and thank God you have them to toat around. You're luckier than you know.
Until the next nap time...
A good friend of mine has been diagnosed with cancer and begins chemo on Thursday. See her blog at http://lesterlink.blogspot.com/. Besides being a life-threatening illness that demands its presence be known, my girlfriend & her husband are now forced to postpone having children. And yes, they are wondering about the effects the chemo will have on future child-bearing years. But all of this makes me realize how lucky we are to have children. When you think of every thing that could go wrong, it's amazing any of us survived to have kids of our own. So the next time you're rushing out the door to grab that great book for your sister, remember the little ones just don't understand. Stop & look in their eyes and thank God you have them to toat around. You're luckier than you know.
Until the next nap time...
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Good News!
Well, I'm excited to say that my new book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids will officially launch on Dec. 1, although I'm doing some early promotions already. I'm really hoping parents & grandparents can use this book. I just get too frustrated when I'm trying to spend time with my daughter and end up spending way too much time researching the darn activity. The book will be available in local bookstores soon. See www.TellYourTale.com/Kids.
Here's a frustration: Amazon seems to really take advantage of its size in every way possible. Not only does Amazon require large discounts on books, the company is less than easy to work with and incredibly slow to post book info. Still, Amazon continues to be the source for online books so it gets away with swinging its weight around. Welcome to the big boys playground, right?
Parents magazine includes a one-page double-sided guide each month in its issue. The guide covers different emergencies from "Car Accident 911" to "Insect Bites & Stings". I liked the car accident guide so much that I thought "Hey, I'll tear this out and keep it in my car." Rrrrip! Uh, oh. Unfortunately, Parents magazine doesn't perforate the edges of those guides, although they are printed on a heavy card stock, so it's very difficult to pull those out of the bound issue without tearing the article to shreds. Sure wish Parents mag would make it easier to use that info by adding perforations. Do you agree? Check out this month's issue.
Until the next nap time...
Here's a frustration: Amazon seems to really take advantage of its size in every way possible. Not only does Amazon require large discounts on books, the company is less than easy to work with and incredibly slow to post book info. Still, Amazon continues to be the source for online books so it gets away with swinging its weight around. Welcome to the big boys playground, right?
Parents magazine includes a one-page double-sided guide each month in its issue. The guide covers different emergencies from "Car Accident 911" to "Insect Bites & Stings". I liked the car accident guide so much that I thought "Hey, I'll tear this out and keep it in my car." Rrrrip! Uh, oh. Unfortunately, Parents magazine doesn't perforate the edges of those guides, although they are printed on a heavy card stock, so it's very difficult to pull those out of the bound issue without tearing the article to shreds. Sure wish Parents mag would make it easier to use that info by adding perforations. Do you agree? Check out this month's issue.
Until the next nap time...
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Treasure These Moments
This evening, I opened a letter from an old college friend. These days, I don't feel bad about saying "old." In our early 30s, I've learned to appreciate those old friends who have stuck by us for longer than a college class or two. This girlfriend shared with me a wonderful article about raising and enjoying children. The article is titled "Good-bye Dr. Spock" and is excerpted from the book Loud and Clear by Anna Quindlen. I highly recommend it.
In short, the article suggests really getting to know your kids and appreciating each moment for all it is. And I wholeheartedly agree. While the Ph.D.s have studied hard & have valuable advice to offer, we're the parents. It's like my daughter's pediatrician says when I ask him so many questions: "I don't know. You're her Mom," he says with a smile. Some would find this frustrating as I did initially but now I see he was encouraging me to embrace the inner voice that tells you how to work and how to play with your child. It was something none of the books instructed me about, but it was a voice I needed to hear and trust more.
After 13 hours of delivery, I looked forward to holding our 9 pound 1 ounce baby in early April '05. I held that child for less than five minutes -- enough time for two photos. Then the doctors and nurses that crowded the delivery room whisked my daughter away. My husband looked at me with strength, then ran after the doctors down the hall. With merconium in her lungs, my daughter Kylie was having difficulty breathing (imagine that!) and an unexplained fever. The other challenges now escape my memory. It all seems like a fog, except that feeling of longing for my only child. Somehow, I could see through the drugs to know she'd be fine. After a few days in the NICU, our family welcomed our daughter to our home in Houston -- dressed with floral bouquets and mountains of food. Somehow, things just were not right though.
As the next two weeks went by and I struggled through my own recovery, I got to know this little girl who clung to me for safety. Before I could walk a block on my own again, I knew I would fight for her. This overwhelming feeling grew in intensity. Family members reassured me that my hormones would balance out and things would be okay.
"I just don't want them to take her away from me again," I told my mother.
"Who?" she asked in turn.
"The doctors," I replied. Somehow, I knew our fight was not over.
During her two week check up, I pointed our some spots on my daughter that looked like small marbles trapped beneath her skin. They were small enough that the pediatrician had not even noticed them. After a second doctor reviewed the curious spots, we were immediately sent to Texas Childrens Hospital down the street.
We spent hours in the waiting room with a newborn that just two weeks ago seemed like such a big baby. I now worried about her safety but tried to remain calm. Just before midnight, one ER doctor after another pushed and squeezed my daughter. She screamed in pain and the medical team recommended we check her in for further tests.
"Your daughter has a staf infection. It's very serious," a doctor told me in the wee hours of the next morning.
From the deepest part of my guts, I found the courage to ask: "Am I going to lose my daughter?"
"I think we caught it in time but I can't promise," the doctor responded.
I looked at this innocent child who lay in an infant's bed in this sterile hospital and at that moment, I knew what my instincts had told me all along. I... no, we would have to fight to keep her alive.
Last week, my daughter Kylie turned eight months old. While she faces the constant runny nose and typical diaper rash, there is no sign of the staf infection that tried to rip her from my arms. And because of that single hospital visit, I take to heart the advice of author Anna Quindlen when she says: "The biggest mistake I made is the one that most of us make while doing this (raising kids). I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs... I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night."
Like you, I have the chance to relish these moments of my daughter's childhood. While I stress out when I'm working on deadline & my client calls, I know that my most important job is growing up with my daughter and trusting my inner voice that says "treasure these moments. They will be gone too fast."
Until the next nap time...
In short, the article suggests really getting to know your kids and appreciating each moment for all it is. And I wholeheartedly agree. While the Ph.D.s have studied hard & have valuable advice to offer, we're the parents. It's like my daughter's pediatrician says when I ask him so many questions: "I don't know. You're her Mom," he says with a smile. Some would find this frustrating as I did initially but now I see he was encouraging me to embrace the inner voice that tells you how to work and how to play with your child. It was something none of the books instructed me about, but it was a voice I needed to hear and trust more.
After 13 hours of delivery, I looked forward to holding our 9 pound 1 ounce baby in early April '05. I held that child for less than five minutes -- enough time for two photos. Then the doctors and nurses that crowded the delivery room whisked my daughter away. My husband looked at me with strength, then ran after the doctors down the hall. With merconium in her lungs, my daughter Kylie was having difficulty breathing (imagine that!) and an unexplained fever. The other challenges now escape my memory. It all seems like a fog, except that feeling of longing for my only child. Somehow, I could see through the drugs to know she'd be fine. After a few days in the NICU, our family welcomed our daughter to our home in Houston -- dressed with floral bouquets and mountains of food. Somehow, things just were not right though.
As the next two weeks went by and I struggled through my own recovery, I got to know this little girl who clung to me for safety. Before I could walk a block on my own again, I knew I would fight for her. This overwhelming feeling grew in intensity. Family members reassured me that my hormones would balance out and things would be okay.
"I just don't want them to take her away from me again," I told my mother.
"Who?" she asked in turn.
"The doctors," I replied. Somehow, I knew our fight was not over.
During her two week check up, I pointed our some spots on my daughter that looked like small marbles trapped beneath her skin. They were small enough that the pediatrician had not even noticed them. After a second doctor reviewed the curious spots, we were immediately sent to Texas Childrens Hospital down the street.
We spent hours in the waiting room with a newborn that just two weeks ago seemed like such a big baby. I now worried about her safety but tried to remain calm. Just before midnight, one ER doctor after another pushed and squeezed my daughter. She screamed in pain and the medical team recommended we check her in for further tests.
"Your daughter has a staf infection. It's very serious," a doctor told me in the wee hours of the next morning.
From the deepest part of my guts, I found the courage to ask: "Am I going to lose my daughter?"
"I think we caught it in time but I can't promise," the doctor responded.
I looked at this innocent child who lay in an infant's bed in this sterile hospital and at that moment, I knew what my instincts had told me all along. I... no, we would have to fight to keep her alive.
Last week, my daughter Kylie turned eight months old. While she faces the constant runny nose and typical diaper rash, there is no sign of the staf infection that tried to rip her from my arms. And because of that single hospital visit, I take to heart the advice of author Anna Quindlen when she says: "The biggest mistake I made is the one that most of us make while doing this (raising kids). I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs... I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night."
Like you, I have the chance to relish these moments of my daughter's childhood. While I stress out when I'm working on deadline & my client calls, I know that my most important job is growing up with my daughter and trusting my inner voice that says "treasure these moments. They will be gone too fast."
Until the next nap time...
Thursday, November 17, 2005
One Resource for Parents
Ever get to a local event that was promoted in the paper as the best thing in town for your kid -- only to find out it's missing the mark? If your child was 5 years older or really interested in culture vs. sports, maybe so. Ugh. It's too frustrating to load kids in the car and have that happen again and again. So maybe you spend hours researching the event on the Internet and then call the place to verify the details. Now you're spending more time with the promotions people than your own child.
No more. With a discriminating eye, I'm researching fun activities for kids in Houston under age 10. Then parents, grandparents & caregivers can spend more time with their kiddos and less time with the phone & computer. At last, let's have one resource that gives honest insight into kids' activities in 2006 and, hey, let's include some age recommendations. Yep, that's right. This is not your "50 things to do with your child" list that is outdated a year after you buy it. Let's make it easy on parents to have fun with their children. I think that's what we really want any ways. Good, clean fun with the family. Let me know your thoughts and suggestions.
If I don't know about a certain Houston activity, I'll do my best to make a visit & then share my thoughts with you. Plus, other parents can share their experiences as well. Until the next nap time...
No more. With a discriminating eye, I'm researching fun activities for kids in Houston under age 10. Then parents, grandparents & caregivers can spend more time with their kiddos and less time with the phone & computer. At last, let's have one resource that gives honest insight into kids' activities in 2006 and, hey, let's include some age recommendations. Yep, that's right. This is not your "50 things to do with your child" list that is outdated a year after you buy it. Let's make it easy on parents to have fun with their children. I think that's what we really want any ways. Good, clean fun with the family. Let me know your thoughts and suggestions.
If I don't know about a certain Houston activity, I'll do my best to make a visit & then share my thoughts with you. Plus, other parents can share their experiences as well. Until the next nap time...
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