Having a Thankful Heart

I've been so blessed lately. Isn't that nice to hear from anyone? I'm also lucky to be reminded regularly of how blessed I am. The reminders appear everywhere -- from the weekly email from Jon Gordon (author of The Energy Bus) to my women's networking group to a friend's words of wisdom. Since I've found that being thankful brings a more positive outlook to life, I'm going to try writing at least one thing I'm thankful for each day.

Today, I'm thankful for the perfect weather in Houston and for my daughter's giggles all afternoon.

What are you thankful for? How about your child? You'll be amazed and refreshed to hear what your child is thankful for. I have been.

Until the next nap time...

Denny's Family-Friendly Promo Misses Opportunity

So I like the new Denny's promotion for today where you get a free GrandSlamwich with the purchase of a Grand Slam. Basically, it's a buy one, get one free promotion. The TV commercials are cute, ending with an encouragement to bring a cute kid into Denny's. Too bad Denny's forgot to tie this promo into the fact that this week is opening week for baseball -- America's favorite past time. Dope! Any ways, if you're interested in a late lunch today, head to Denny's. The promo is good for only today from 6 am - 2 pm. Hurry in.

Until the next nap time...

Dude, How About Going to a Dude Ranch near Houston?

Eileen wrote in yesterday asking for recommendations on family-friendly ranches or farm stays near Houston. I actually haven't been to any since my parents have their ranch but this got me thinking. What a great activity for young families!

When I was in fifth grade, I remember the middle schoolers went to MO Ranch and had a blast. I did a Google search on "dude ranch Houston" and found a few that look worthy of investigating. Get those city kids out to the country to pick fruits, vegetables and nut. See ranch animals. Experience nature. Let me know if you've experienced any of these:

1). Cielito Ranch Bed & Breakfast

• Beautifully finished rustic style country cabins nestled between huge Texas pecan trees available for either bed and breakfast or self-catering vacation rental accommodation.
• A swimming pool with waterfall and water sprays is available for Ranch guest use.
• Miles of walking / riding trails through pastures and woods above the Brazos River.
• Facilities for guests to board their horses.
• Fishing, campfires, hayrides, long walks, barbeques and quiet relaxation.
• Meeting / party facilities for special occasions, group meetings, birthday parties, church events or retreats
• Pet Friendly Accommodations: Pets are welcome at our bed and breakfast and are included right into the Ranch animal family.
• Enjoy a fall harvest of nuts in our 'pick-your-own-pecans' orchards
• Located 40 miles west of downtown Houston near Katy and Brookshire.
• Riding lessons by appointment.

2) Blisswood at Lehmann Legacy Ranch in Cat Spring, Texas
This working guest ranch of over 650 acres is only an hour west of Houston, Texas. Blisswood is a bed and breakfast and has a log cabin for rent...it is also an enchanting setting for outdoor weddings, private and corporate retreats and company picnics. Come and enjoy what this magical place called Blisswood has to offer!
3). Cedar Cabins in New Ulm, TX.
Enjoy a stay in any or all of our four cabins, tastefully decorated with authentic country furnishings, located on over 240 acres right in the heart of the rolling hills of Texas, 1/2 way between Houston and Austin. Come and bring your family and friends, and enjoy getting away to the country!
4). MO Ranch near Kerrville, TX.
This vacation ranch's housing ranges from modern hotel rooms, to spacious historic mansions, to rustic cabins. Located on 475 acres near Kerrville, Texas. Horseback riding, swimming, hiking and more. This is the place that Grace Presbyterian School took its middle schoolers.
5). Rivendell Ranch in West Fort Bend Area
Enjoy a country vacation less than an hour from Houston atop the highest natural spot in Fort Bend County, overlooking a pond and the San Bernard River. The ranch is a working cattle ranch, on 200 private acres, half-wooded, offering privacy, peace and tranquility.
Until the next nap time...

Big Bite Nite is Coming to Houston Museum of Natural Science

I received the following information today and it looks pretty cool. It's the Big Bite Nite at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Unfortunately, each ticket costs $35 so it's a bit on the expensive side for most Houston families. The invitation is super cute but if you read the fine print it says "age 21 and up". Darn, no youngsters. Still, this looks like an appetizng date night for parents and other adults so you may want to treat yourself. Let me know if you go. I love a night out from my kitchen.

Big Bite Nite Is Coming!
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is starting something BIG—and you’re invited! Discover the culinary explorer inside as you taste the talents of some of Houston’s most prestigious restaurants. Delve into the cultural traditions of our diverse city with dancers and musical entertainment. Explore the intricacies of cuisine from our spotlight country: China. Experience an epic journey of world food as we highlight delicacies from across the globe in this lavish culinary affair. Sponsored by Polo’s Signature, TEXAS MONTHLY, DLG Ice Factory, Party Props, Inc. and Johnathan Andrew Sage, Inc.

Until the next nap time...

Interviewed for Houston Chronicle Article

Good news. I was interviewed this afternoon by Amanda Orr, a freelance writer for the Houston Chronicle. She asked me about fun summer activities for kids, especially the Art Car Museum so I gave her tips like:

• plan only 30 minutes for the Art Car Museum since it's relatively small
• good place for families, especially working parents with young kids, since it's easy to explore in such a short time.good place for families, especially working parents with young kids, since it's easy to explore in such a short time.
• explain to kids in advance that this is a no-touching museum. Many items that are used to decorate these silly cars are seen in every day life, we don't touch them at the museum in an effort to preserve the decorated cars.

The article should run in about 2 weeks in a Houston Chronicle supplement called "Summer Texas Family Fun" or something of that nature. Amanda said that she'll cite my book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids as well in the article. Yeah!
Until the next nap time...

Two Family-Friendly Restaurants near the Houston Heights

Last weekend, we checked out two really good restaurants that I'm excited to blog about. First, we visited Cedar Creek Cafe on w. 20th St. in the Heights. It's a brother restaurant to Dry Creek and Onion Creek but we felt really t home at Cedar Creek and so did my daughter. My burger was delicious and I loved the laid back, comfortable feeling at 11:30 am on a Saturday. A few families had their kiddos in this cafe that turns into a bar at night. I was not worried. Little K gobbled up the fruit dish and then played inside. The crowd didn't seem to mind her giggles as her father tickled her.

We sat inside since it was cool outside. Despite the comfy, at-home chairs, we look forward to returning when spring is in the warm air. My husband said the place reminded him of a grown-up version of our favorite college bar. It's as if we got older and opened this place. Well, someone else did.

There are loads of seats outside and a couple of guys were putting together a deck. Several flat screen TVs deck the environment so it's great for catching a game. How about a lil' Astros? Plus, the water fountain outside drew my daughter's attention. And the service was impeccable and friendly. A big thumbs up for Cedar Creek. So glad this is less than 5 minutes from my house. I'm likely to become a regular.

Sunday night, we were starving after running errands at Target off I-10 and Taylor. We stopped by Panda Express and fell in love. Good call on eating there. Little K's noodles were everywhere, but she ate most of them. Plus, the convenient kids meal was a welcome treat with a choice of one entree, one side, a cookie (ah! it had peanuts so we donated it back!) and a drink.

Trent & I loved the quick Chinese food with fresh vegetables and of course the fortune cookies that tapped off the night. Want to know my fortune? "You will spend many eyars in comfort and material wealth." My husand's response: "I'm sticking with you." Ha! Fortune or no fortune, we'll be sure to return to this tasty, fast-food eatery.

Until the next nap time...

Funny Things Kids Say

Little K says the funniest things. From "blue bottoms" (bluebonnets) to "bench toast" (French toast), I get a good laugh in here & there. Like the time she told my dad that it's bad to smoke cigarettes (of course it is). My father was not amused. Fast-forward a few weeks later when Little K sees a stranger smoking while we're on the way home from nursery school.

"It's bad to smoke," Little K said pointing at the man. "People shouldn't do that."
"No, they shouldn't. You're right," I reply, pausing to see what else she'd say.
"Except PaPa," my daughter said. "He can do whatever he wants."
Priceless.

Or how about this one?

My husband Trent just entered his restroom and shut the door behind him. Little K followed and tried entering the door. She just HAD to tell her daddy something RIGHT THEN. Luckily for all involved, the door was locked.

"Let me in!" Little K shouted, teasing her father as she banged on the door.

"No, I'm going to the bathroom," her daddy responds.

"Then, I'll huff and I'll puff and I'll blow your door in!" Little K replied, mimicing the tale of "The 3 Little Pigs."

While she huffed and puffed, I howled. I just hope I'll remember this stuff when she's older. That Little K is quick on her feet. How about your kids?

Until the next nap time...

Bluebonnet Time in Texas

Last week, while I was at a business meeting, my colleagues guided a newcomer to Texas on the way things are done around here. This woman didn't know what a bluebonnet was so everyone described them carefully.

Once the transplant finally realized she'd seen bluebonnets along the roadside, the team explained that she needed to schedule a photo shoot (formal or informal) of her daughter in the bluebonnets. The Yankee just didn't understand why these southern kicks would take photos in these blue flowers, although she questioned the practice politely.

"They're the state flower of Texas," one woman said. "You have to take photos of your kid in the bluebonnets."

Who knows if the transplant did or will, but we did. My parents took Little K to Navasota last weekend to the family ranch. The bluebonnets -- or bluebottoms as Little K calls them -- were in full bloom, reaching for the sky before the weather gets too hot and withers them away. Dressed in white, my daughter picked me a handful. (She can pick the state flower on private property.) Now we have a beautiful bouquet of bluebonnets on our kitchen table, welcoming spring.

The only thing better would be these photos framed. How picturesque!

If you're looking for bluebonnets that are a bit closer to Houston, head to Loop 610 North and TC Jester east. Park at the Boys Scouts of America building and walk across TC Jester to the bayou. Enjoy the walking trail and snap plenty of photos of your family in the bluebonnets, right in the middle of Houston. Much easier.

Until the next nap time...

Gone to the Dog

Sorry I've been a bit absent on the blog. I refuse to put it on my To Do list in hopes of keeping the blog fun and something I look forward to.

This month has been a busy one with rodeo in full season. Luckily, it seems Little K will remember it this year. The purchase of her pink cowGIRL hat is a good reminder.

We also purchased our first dog, as earlier reported so life at house is slowly adjusting to the animal house.

I'm the one who refused to get a dog because I didn't want yet another responsibility. In case you can't see it in the photo below, the writing on my forehead says "SUCKER". That dog is darling. Our inside cat TJ clearly reminds us that this has been a cat house for 10 years and some hyper critter has invaded. When the Ridgeback named Dutch gets a little too close to TJ, the claws come up. Puppy yelps ensue for much longer than they should but he gets the attention he wants. Little K is loving the dog and her constant companion. They play hide and seek, chase, run -- any activity that involves the puppy chasing my almost 4-year-old and nipping at her heels. It usually results in giggles so no complaints there.

Our friend Emma is no longer at our nursery school and several of us are worried that her brain tumor has returned. I've checked her mother's blog but no recent updates. How do you ask a parent how her child is doing when you know there's a long, hard road before them? I'm figuring a kind word here & there is better than nothing. I don't want to be nosey but would offer to help their family if only I knew how. Little K just tells me that today is not the day that Emma goes to school there. I don't want to alarm Little K with misinformation so I'll keep quiet on that front. I pray for Emma and her family, and hope you all will do the same. It's a quick reminder of how precious our children are.

Until the next nap time...

One Thing You Shouldn't Do in a Recession by Trent Salch

Guest blogger: Trent Salch

So I have been told by a lot of different people that the one thing you don't want to do during a recession is add another mouth to feed. Well too late. That's right Little K is going to get a little bro. We of course are ecstatic. The adoption has gone through and we only have one more week to wait. But come Sunday we will have a little bundle of joy. He was born in Willis, Tx to a fine gal who had 8 other kids. The father really doesn't have a job other than makin' babies, so we really feel like our home will be a step up. We know that it will be hard to get him into school with such short notice but we will cross that bridge when we get there.

So take a look at the photo for your first look at 7 week old Dutch. He is a Rhodesian Ridgeback otherwise known as an African Lion Hunter. What did you think we were dumb enough to have a human baby? If he grows to his potential, he will weigh about 100 lbs. and will be the best watch dog that we could ever ask for. Papa Don, now that we have a red head, do we "get it all"?

So how did we decide on a dog? Well I have always said that I wanted one, but the time was never right and I couldn't ever find "the one." Last weekend, we went to deliver the check for Little K's swim lessons. When Megan and K opened the gate to the teacher's house, they were greeted by a very large, very interesting and friendly dog. Megan fell in love. On Monday, I did some research and found a Kennal in Willis, TX who just bread ridgebacks. We went today and picked out the last male in his current litter. We will keep posting photos of the new addition to our family.

Until the next nap time...

Trip to the Houston Livestock Show

This afternoon, we made the trip to the Livestock Show and really had a good time. Little K loved the petting zoo, where she fed a deer, lambs, goats, and more. Her Daddy bought her a pink cowgirl hat that she happily sported. He couldn't convince her to try on boots though. Little K has decided she wants a goat for a pet. I told her to talk to PaPa. (We have 4 cats, no dog. I think the dog will be next.... definitely before a goat. Gosh, what would my neighbors think?)

We waited in line for one hour so Little K could ride the pony for $6. The company must make a killing every hour because the ride was not even 5 minutes long. But my little cowgirl loved it. In all honesty, it didn't feel like an hour because I was so busy people watching. Since we went to the Livestock Show while most people were at the Rodeo performance, the crowd was not too bad (okay, despite the long wait for the ponies!). I was really glad to do it as family. I have such fond memories of my parents and my Grandparents taking me to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo over the years. Now, it's my turn.
Next Friday night, we're returning for the rodeo and Clint Black's performance. We debated taking Little K and decided we would. While it will be a super late night for my almost 4-year-old, I figure it's a once a year occurence and she can sleep in on Saturday. I can't wait.
Little K refers to herself now as "Cowgirl K."
Until the next nap time...

Heights Crawfish Boil for Family Fun

Looking for something fun to do today? Head to 19th Street and Ashland in the Historic Houston Heights for the annual Crawfish Boil, sponsored by the Heights Chamber of Commerce. Strategically planned in conjunction with the Heights First Saturday's shopping, the Crawfish Boil is loads of fun for families with face painting, moonwalk and crawfish races for kids. A DJ playing favorite tunes will get you moving, too. The conversation and food are memorable. Plus, you don't have to cook or clean up.

$15 gets you a heaping plate of crawfish, potatoes, and corn, and two drinks
$5 gets sausage-on-a-stick OR a hotdog, chips, and one drink

Hope to see you there Saturday noon - 4 pm! Until the next nap time...

The Winner Is... Results of the Houston Family Fun Survey

Thanks to all of you who completed the Houston Family Fun survey regarding my newsletter. A total of 94 people responded with 76 people completing all 6 questions. As promised, I drew one name from those 76 respondents to win a $25 American Express gift certificate as a token of my appreciation. The winner is...

Brigitte Hokaj!

Brigitte, I will email you to confirm your mailing address and send you the $25 gift certificate. Congratulations!

Here's a recap of the feedback you shared, that I'll be incorporating into future newsletters. If you're NOT a subscriber to this FREE email newsletter, sign up today.

Question #1: How much is the economic recession affecting your family buying decisions?
A lot: 18
Somewhat: 49
Not at all: 9

Question #2: In terms of newsletter content, do you prefer:
Suggested family activities and reviews? 67
Insightful articles on family topics quoting child experts? 3
Other: 6

Question #3: What do you like best about the Houston Family Fun newsletter?
Here's a collection of some responses:
- I get a lot of information for activities in town. it saves me time.
- Personal stories, photos, reflections about being a mother. Heart warming!
- Format, tone, down to earth quality, variety of activities and $$$$ suggested
- Variety of suggestions from free to paid and not just in one area of the city
- Easy to follow at a glance and links to where you need to go for more information
- So informative... especially since alot of times it lists specifics to the time period or holiday
- It has lots of meaningful information. It's worth my time to read.
- I like that' its emailed and gives all kinds of ideas. Advice is good also.

Question #4: What do you wish I'd change about the Houston Family Fun newseltter?
- Just an idea - timeframe suggestions - i.e. Great to do before 11 a.m., Best before 4 p.m....
- I think it is great! I loved the issue with the birthday party ideas.maybe you could add a seasonal section on where they offer different kinds of lessons for children around houston, dance, spanish,art, summer camps. ect...
- I'd love to see more ideas! Ideas on child-friendly places to eat and "kids eat free" or similar discount info
- maybe some topics about activities w/grandparents
- more activities - maybe even smaller, regional ones. Or maybe you could somehow categorize the activies into regions?
- nothing it is so wonderful and I really appreciate all your hard work!

Question #5: Do you have a copy of the book "100+ Activities for Houston Kids"?
Yes: 43
No: 32

Question #6: What else would you buy from me if only I was smart enough to offer it to you?
- Fun, simple crafts to do at home with your kids - if not in a book, you could start by doing one craft per newsletter and have it be adjustable to work with a toddler through preschool age child.
- Activity kits for rainy days
- I think your suggestions on family friendly restaurants has been fantastic, maybe something along those lines? You have been a blessing to our family. We have had so much fun as a family each month. We had a bunny buddies party at the Nature Discovery Center after visiting as a result of one of your newsletters, it was a BIG hit! Our 4 year old daughter and friends had a ball! Oh, how about including some places in the community that you and your child could help out by volunteering in some way.
- discounted memberships or tickets to museums and other area places and events * social networking for families in the various areas or neighborhoods of Houston looking for children of similar ages for play time * ways to connect with babysitters in a neighborhood or area of town (I just read of a group in Tampa, Florida - http://www.sittersoirees.com/)
maybe a zip-specific thing so that even small, random events could be included and would be convenient?

With so much wonderful feedback, I need to get busy researching & writing. Thanks to each of you for taking time to give me feedback. Please post comments to this blog or email me any time.

Until the next nap time...

Stepping and Parading Last Weekend

This past weekend was a busy one but so much fun.

On Saturday morning, our family participated in the Steps for Students Run that raised money for our school, St. Rose of Lima, as well as other Catholic schools in the Galveston-Houston archdiocese. Thanks to each of our family members and friends who supported us in this important endeavor. It's an exciting way to exercise as a family and community, while fundraising. (PHOTO: Little K and her Daddy running toward the finish line in February 2009.)

St. Rose School raised $42,000 and was awarded for the most spirit of all Catholic schools (at all levels) in the archdiocese. Wait to go, Cardinals!

Then we made the trip to Galveston for Mardi Gras with Trent's parents, sister and friends. Little K was thrilled when a member of the Momus Krewe threw her a Scoobie Doo doll from the balcony. It cracks me up to hear Little K shout: "Throw me something, Mister!" Ahh.

While it rained a bit Saturday afternoon, the floats on Saturday night were great and I truly enjoyed seeing so much happiness return to the island.

With the Tremont Hotel still suffering from Hurricane Ike, the traditional party was moved to the Hotel Galvez on the Seawall and the hotel's decor inside & out was inspiring. The Momus Parade came revelling down the Seawall with plenty of stops for the crowd in front of the Hotel Galvez. Of course, the parade would be amiss without participation from the Philadelphia Mummers. Their costumes were glorious but we missed their typical dance & jeer routine. (PHOTO: Mummers display full colors of the Mardi Gras rainbow in Galveston.) After the parade, we returned inside the hotel for dinner and chatting. We returned to my in-laws' home around 9:30 pm to learn Little K had been fast asleep under the careful supervision of Miss Margot.

Sunday, we went to the Seawall, where we met cousin Becca and Uncle Owen as well as a few friends. We watched the Pet Parade at 1 pm, followed by the Children's Parade. While the float participants were fewer this year and the pets were more mainstream, it was certainly fun for all. Be sure to mark it on your calendar for 2010. Who knows? Maybe the iguanas will return. Once again, I'm thrilled to report that Mardi Gras in Galveston really is a family affair.

Speaking of which... A special Mardi Gras THANK YOU to my in-laws Steve & Mary Ann, who were again gracious hosts to the festivities.

With Lent starting today, we'll pipe down a little but continue to share plenty of thoughts and encouragements here.

Until the next nap time...

Happy Mardi Gras!

Momentarily, we're heading to my aunt's house for a Mardi Gras supper. With much of our family from New Orleans, we love the good food, good drink and good company. Tomorrow, we will be running/walking the Steps for Students 5K to raise money for my daughter's school. Equally important, it boosts morale.

Then, we're off to Galveston for Mardi Gras with my inlaws. Who knew you could have that much fun? Pray that the weather remains nice. The weather reports are predicting rain this weekend but the island could use a good Mardi Gras. Sunday is the Kids Parade, followed by the Pet Parade. We can't wait.

Happy Mardi Gras! Until the next nap time...

Kid-Friendly Mardi Gras

Yes, Galveston will have the Pet Parade and Children's Parade this Sunday afternoon on Seawall Blvd. I drove to Galveston on Monday afternoon so my Grammy & PaPa Don could see the island post-Hurricane Ike and I was pleased to see that progress really is being made. In fact, the beach along Seawall Blvd. looked cleaner than I ever remember it. Hope you'll enjoy these kid-friendly parades on Sunday. Cross your fingers for good weather.

10th Annual Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Mardi Gras Parade (also known as the Pet Parade) - 1 pm, line-up begins at noon. Bringing out the best in people and their pets, this parade begins at 27th and Seawall and proceeds west to 45th. Pets of all sizes, shapes, and species are welcome (costumes optional). Pre-parade costume contest, with the winners making up the Royal Court. Last year we had approximately 200 animals and hope to top that number. This parade benefits the daily operations of the Galveston Island Humane Society. $15 advance registration and $20 day of parade. Info and registration: Cynthia McEldowney at 409-744-0102 or cynthiamce@aol.com.

Mardi Gras Children’s Parade - 2 pm, Firefighters Local 571 hosts a parade dedicated to the families and children of Galveston. The 2009 parade celebrates “A Salute to Comic Book Heroes”, with costumed kids and decorated floats. Parade begins at 27th Street and Seawall, and proceeds to 47th Street to the Academy parking lot. Pre-registration for parade participation is required. Info: Charles Olsen at 409-789-1265 or http://www.childrensparade.org/.

More info is also available online at http://www.mardigrasgalveston.com/festivities/calendar.html. These two parades really are good, clean fun for families.

Until the next nap time...

What Do Your Kids Think of Friday the 13th?

I love Friday the 13th. It started years ago when I went to my (paternal)Grandmother's house after school on Friday the 13th. When she asked how my day was, I rattled through a laundry list of bad things that had happened all because it was Friday the 13th.

My Grandmother surprised me when she refuted the bad luck, although she's always been super superstitious. She said Friday the 13th did not bring bad luck. In fact, it brought GOOD luck. How did she know? My Grandmother was born on Friday, Nov. 13, 1913.

This past Friday was Friday the 13th so I took Little K to the dentist. She was nervous but loved the prizes she got from Dr. Rhea's office. Then, we met my mom, my sister, my niece and my maternal grandparents. It's wonderful to have four generations together. It was also quite a show at Le Peep restaurant on I-10. Little K teased her great PaPaDon and then turned to tickle her cousin Claire. I returned Little K to nursery school around 10:30 that morning so she could participate in the Valentine Day festivities. When I picked her up that afternoon, she claimed that she indeed had a great day.

Today, my favorite numbers are 5 and 13, and now you know why I like at least one of them. It's amazing what one small conversation with my Grandmother could translate into when I had my own daughter. I seem to find good things in each Friday the 13th, no matter what gruesome flick is playing at the local movie theater. Get ready. March also touts a Friday the 13th. It's another opportunity to find great things in your life and your child's.

Until the next nap time...

Do Red Heads Have More Fun?

My husband would say "YES" but he's not the only one.

The students at St. Rose School reached their goal of reading 60,000 minutes in January 2009. The result? Besides good readers, Principal Cathy Stephen dyed her hair red to thank the St. Rose Cardinals. “I thought it’d be fun to do a play on words,” Mrs. Stephen said. She asked her students daily if they had read stories the night before with their parents. The students responded enthusiastically that their principal should start looking for some red hair dye. Yes, you really can have fun and encourage learning.

Pictured in the attached photos are left to right:
Rosie Vega
Mrs. Stephen
Sophie Rodarte
Aiden Sowers

Open Houses:
Friday, February 27th 12 noon
Thursday, March 12th, 6 pm – 7:30
Now registering students for Fall 2009, Pre K 4 – Grade 5

Quick Trip to Williams Tower Water Wall

So it's Super Bowl Sunday and I always struggle to do family-oriented stuff this weekend because the football game really is geared to adults. So, after church this morning, we ate lunch at Jax Grill on Shepherd near I-10 and then drove to the Williams Tower Water Wall (formerly Transco Tower). Little K was so excited about playing there but I promised Daddy we'd only take a few minutes. Little K and her stuffed dog "Race Dog" ran in the field and at least one of them squeeled in delight. At the end of the run was the enormous water fountain and more delighted oozed from my daughter's body. Her eyes grew to the size of donuts.

We both loved the crashing noise of all the water. Look up to see the gray clouds above with a bit of blue sky peaking out. We could feel the cool mist sprinkling our bodies and we were pleased that we could at least make a quick visit. A few photos later, we raced back to Daddy who sat in the car. We continue to giggle on our return ride home. Next time, we agreed we'd pack a snack and blanket to enjoy a picnic and spend more time there.

Until the next nap time...

City of Galveston Prepares for Mardi Gras! Galveston

City of Galveston Prepares for Mardi Gras! Galveston

Galveston, Texas - The City of Galveston welcomes revelers to the island for Mardi Gras
2009. Mardi Gras! Galveston will run from February 13 through February 24, 2009. Please
note the street closures, parking guidelines, public safety information, and vendor news.

First Weekend – Street Closures
Downtown Entertainment District:
Prior to Friday, February 13th, No Parking signs will appear downtown alerting the public about
weekend street closures. Crews from Public Works will close intersections in the late afternoon
and by 5:00 p.m. Strand will be open to pedestrian traffic only from Harborside to Mechanic,
20th to 25th Streets.

Seawall Parade Routes:
Parades are scheduled to begin at noon on Saturday, February 14th. Access streets leading to
Seawall between 10th and 69th Streets will be barricaded from 10:30 a.m. to as late as 10:00
p.m. that night. Vehicles will be directed westbound away from the parades.

Second Weekend – Street Closures
Downtown Entertainment District:
Prior to Friday, February 20th, No Parking signs will appear downtown alerting the public about
weekend street closures. Starting at 2:00 p.m. crews from Public Works will close
intersections and by 5:00 p.m. Strand and Mechanic will be open to pedestrian traffic only
from Harborside to Market, 20th to 25th Streets.

Seawall Parade Routes:
Saturday, February 21st:
To accommodate several parades street closures along Seawall Blvd. will begin at 8:30 a.m.
on Saturday, February 21st. Please note the following traffic schedule:

• West-bound traffic will be closed on Seawall Blvd. between 16th and 19th Streets from
  8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Access streets leading to Seawall will be barricaded in that
  area.
• East and west-bound traffic will be closed on Seawall Blvd between 25th and 33rd Streets
  from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Access streets leading to Seawall will be barricaded in
  that area.
• East and west-bound traffic will be closed on Seawall Blvd between 16th and 29th Streets
  from 3:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Access streets leading to Seawall will be barricaded in
  that area.
• Additionally, 25th Street from Seawall Blvd. to Market will be closed from 4:30 p.m. to
  10:00 p.m. to safely allow for the night parade.

Sunday, February 22nd:
To accommodate two parades east and west-bound traffic will be closed on Seawall Blvd.
between 25th and 53rd Streets from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Access streets leading to Seawall
will be barricaded in that area.
Fat Tuesday – Street Closures
On Tuesday, February 24th, Public Works crews will close streets inside the Downtown
Entertainment District at 5:30 p.m. in anticipation of the Fat Tuesday Parade. The area
Harborside to Church, 18th to 26th Streets will be closed for the festivities. All streets will reopen no later than 11:00 p.m.
Seawall Parking
There will be a number of areas along the Seawall designated as no parking zones or restricted
access areas. The City reminds all revelers to take note of these areas when parking their
vehicles.
Available parking spots along Seawall are likely to fill up rapidly in anticipation of Seawall
parades. The Galveston Police Department reminds residents and visitors of parking protocol:
do not try to cover space with anything other than a properly registered vehicle or trailer.
Cones, chairs, ropes, chains and the like will be removed at the owners’ expense.

Public Safety
Maintaining public safety throughout the Mardi Gras celebration is a priority for the City of
Galveston. General safety suggestions include:

• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Exercise caution
• Keep track of personal belongings
• Use your common sense
• Be mindful that event areas will be crowded and offer opportunities for those who might be
  inclined to indulge in criminal behavior. Exercise common sense to reduce your vulnerability to crime.

As stated in the Mardi Gras section of the City Code, glass and silly string are strictly prohibited.
The police will operate a Mobile Command Station on 22nd Street between Market and
Mechanic for the duration of the weekend. For emergencies, please dial 9-1-1. For nonemergencies, please call police dispatch at (409) 765-3702. The City of Galveston will not open its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for Mardi Gras this year.
Until the next nap time...