From the Kentucky Derby to College Scholarships

We had a FABULOUS time at the Kentucky Derby party last Saturday in Dallas. Thank you, Karin! I was amazed at how kid-friendly it was. While the rain pushed the ponies home early, inside Little K was thrilled with the photo booth. I'm not kidding. She loved crawling in there by herself or with anyone who'd join her to take a series of photos. She took about 20 pages of photos. No joke! Our hostess also had toy ponies galore for the youngsters while the adults waged their bets and cheered for the thoroughbreds. It was too fun.

Not to change the subject but... where do you get your inspiration? Yesterday, I interviewed four high school students from Booker T. Washington and Lutheran High North, who were competing for college scholarships granted by the Heights Chamber of Commerce. I was so moved by what adversities these children have faced and yet continue to set their sights quite high. It was also evident to me how important family support and encouragement were to these students. All but one student had encouragement from home to pursue a college education. And the one who seemed to lack that support ... found in amongst her friends, so I'd say she was the most ambitious of them all. You go, girl!

It's graduation time for many students. What inspiration can you gleen from them?

Until the next nap time...

Darling, Which Hat Should I Wear to the Kentucky Derby?

Did you know that the Kentucky Derby is this Saturday? We can't wait!

Wednesday night, we officially began getting ready for the Kentucky Derby. I've always had a passion for horses. While I no longer own a horse, I love a good race.

We went to the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Houston to visit my in-laws, Cici and Popi, who were technically visiting MD Anderson for a CTScan for Popi. You wouldn't have known it that night.

Cici offered to lend us hats for the Kentucky Derby party we're attending Saturday. In preparation, Little K and Cici put on a fabulous hat modeling show. It was a huge hit.

Little K looks so cute in each hat that I don't know that Aunt Susu or I will be able to wear one for long.

And yes, she is modeling the hats in her PJs. It was getting late but who could resist the "Hat Show with Cici" and the fabulous Salch audience? Not me.

Until the next nap time...

Presentations about Book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids

So I just finished a book presentation with a moms group in Katy. What a lively bunch! I sold a good amount of copies of 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. YEAH! Many parents are getting ready for summer when kids are out of school and it's super hot so my book is a great answer/resource for Houston families with kids.

The Houston Press wrote up a promo of my book signing this Saturday, April 25 from 2-5 pm. Hope to see you there.

Until the next nap time...

Faith in Children

I thought the following information was interesting about faith and youth:

"Young people today are not angry with, or mistrustful of, organizations and institutions. They are, however, increasingly apathetic and disconnected from organizations. Spiritually, they are:

• Believers in God, though not necessarily members of particular institutions and denominations
• Involved in an individual spiritual journey, not the communal tradition
• Spiritual, but not necessarily religious

The emphasis seems to be on a vertical spirituality, a 'me and God' spirituality. However, young people are open to and hungry for an experience of the holy. In an age that emphasizes 'virtual reality', young people do:

• Desire a faith that makes a difference in their lives, provides meaning, purpose and challenge
• Desire a genuine experience of the transcendence and power of God
• Relate to a Jesus who understands suffering
• Want to grow in faith together with their peers and with trusted adults
• Believe that everything expresses the transcendent: nature, the arts, gatherings, traditional devotionals.

So, it is apparent that the question is no longer 'Will our children have faith?' They are spiritually hungry and lloking ofr a faith that makes sense, a faith that provides meaning and purpose, that works for them. Rather, the question is, 'Will our faith have children?".
While I think this info is applicable to adults, too, I wonder if a strong church and faith belief system would help kids with daily pressures as they grow up. What do you think?
Info from page 70 of Ministry through the Lens of Evangelization.
Until the next nap time...

When I Grow Up I Want to Be

Too funny. We took our puppy to the vet today for another shot. As we climbed back in the car, we somehow ended up talking about what a "woman" is. Little K announced that she did not want to be a "woman". She instead wants to "be a Mommy, with jewels and works on the computer." You go, girl. Don't forget the jewels. Where she comes up with this stuff, I don't know.

When we returned home, we took the dog for a walk. As new dog owners, we are discovering so many new things about our neighborhood. Miss Carol has four chickens in her backyard that lay eggs every morning. Little K pet one of them while Miss Carol held the chicken. Who knew? Loop 610 is a quarter mile for this house yet it's protected by a lovely garden and tree canopy. Little K is again interested in working on our garden. Perhaps she should have said she wanted to be a gardener when she grows up, rather than "work on the computer." Oh what nature can bring.

Until the next nap time...

Fun Things to Do with Kids When It Rains Outside

Many thanks to Shannon for writing in with some great low-cost ideas for kid-friendly activities around greater Houston. Below are Shannon's contributions. Hope to see you at some of these events.

“Lowes Build and Grow series”. Shannon's child had a great time. It is FREE and last week, they built a birdhouse. On May 9, the project is building this cute planter for a flower pot. What a fun way to welcome spring! Lowes is promoting it as a nice gift for Mother's Day. I'd rather Little K keep it for herself and watch her plant grow.

The first 50 kids to register and be present at the store at 10 am will receive a kit, aprons and goggles. As Shannon says, "With tight wallets, this is a great way for kids to get out and do something with dad (or mom) and not spend any money."

Also, Shannon's family has loved doing the crafts on Saturdays at Lakeshore Learning. I have to agree. I love shopping for my daugther at Lakeshore Learning because its games are educationally focused, although Little K doesn't seem to notice that I'm sneaking that in. Lakeshore recommends the activties for kids age 3 and up but I think age 4 and up is better. (I know, not a big difference but a little.) This Saturday, kids will make this "Hug the Earth" globe in honor of Earth Day, which is technically Wednesday, April 22. I think this will be a creative project to get Little K thinking about recycling and caring for the planet. Plus, I need to pick up a birthday gift for a classmate so I'll likely find something at Lakeshore.

Shannon also reports that Barnes and Noble does story time during the week and on Saturdays and sometimes combines the book with a related craft as well. Check out the activities at your local Barnes & Noble for details. Shannon's family went for Valentine’s day and they had a story, craft, juice and a cupcake. Bring your family to the Barnes & Noble at Town & Country Village on Saturday, April 25 from 2-5 pm to learn more about my book and fun summer activities. I'd love to see you there!

Shannon pointed out that "Right now they even have an advertisement for “Turn off Week” April 20-26th with even more activities." I love the idea of encouraging kids (& adults) to turn off the TVs, computers and video games to do something together. Reading gets bonus points in my book. Check out Barnes & Noble's Turnoff Week page to discover which activities they'll offer in your neck of the woods.

Hope your families have a ball, despite the stormy weather in Houston. Until the next nap time...

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...