Global Positioning for Moms: Lisa's Guide

Find out what our family learned about the Cash for Clunkers program

2009-07-26T12:39:00.001-05:00

Find out what our family learned about the Cash for Clunkers program

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Houston 101: Where can you see the famous Chinese Terra Cotta Warriors?

2009-07-24T11:32:00.001-05:00

Houston 101: Where can you see the famous Chinese Terra Cotta Warriors?

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Houston 101: Where can you see the famous Chinese Terra Cotta Warriors?

2009-07-24T00:22:00.001-05:00

Houston 101: Where can you see the famous Chinese Terra Cotta Warriors?

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Thanksgiving: Food and Fun with Family and Friends

2008-11-21T17:29:00.002-06:00

Next week is Thanksgiving, one of my favorite times of the year. It begins a whole season of fun filled food, family and friends. But if you are like me you wonder two things:

1) What am I going to do with all my leftovers?
and
2) What can I do to keep everyone entertained?

This year try these fun filled table decorations that the whole family creates -- while you are creating the meal or make them the night before so you can have fun too Family Fun Thanksgiving Crafts turned Decoration. Each one comes complete with easy to follow directions to help you create a Thanksgiving Tree, Thanksgiving Designer Table Cloth, Cornucopia Place Settings and many more. Each one only take dollars to make and you, your friends, and family can make some lasting memories and have fun at home with these unique ideas.

It's the day after Thanksgiving, the shopping is done and you have no idea what to do with all these left-overs? Try these "Snore Snore Boring Thanksgiving Leftovers No More."
This gives you six new dishes from those Thanksgiving Leftovers that you can make in minutes. But be sure to check out these recipes before you leave -- one includes an easy crock pot recipe that helps you return home to dinner already made when you are tired of the the crazy Black Friday shopping.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

After the Storm

2008-09-25T10:21:00.004-05:00

So, it's been about two weeks since the storm. In many areas of Houston and especially along the coast, Galveston, and Bolivar Islands we still see the devasting effects of Ike and some people are probably even wondering why they live so close to the ocean. We live here because we love it, because of opportunities, diversity, employment, and families. There are so many reasons why we all live in Houston, and so far I haven't seen anyone say, fine I am going to move. I think Texans must be hardy people, because I have never experienced anything like the way people here have pulled together to help each other and get life back to normal.

I saw a bumper sticker the other day, "I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could." This is me. And even with all the damage, the difficulties for many getting restored, repaired and rebuilt there is much to love here. The people for one. One night everyone in my neighborhood just pulled out grills and starting cooking, and well, there is nothing better than Texas BBQ (and you are talking to a girl from Tennessee!). Or maybe the food just taste better with the company you keep.

It's hard to think of what we will all do next. Many of us have months of rebuilding and restoration to do. Some of us lost our homes. So today, I am posting places to go and things to do next month, so that we dont' forget some of the wonderful opportunities to live and learn here in Houston and enjoy life with our families even in the face of hardship. Please make use of the contact information provided to determine if the festival you wish to attend is still in progress.

Here at Houstonsahm.com our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families, and pray that those hit hard by the storm will be able to recover soon.

Around the world in 30 days, all from the greater Houston area . . .

The 42nd Original Greek Festival October 2-5 2008 (Thursday-Sunday)
Location: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral 3511 Yoakum Blvd. Houston, TX Authentic Greek food, fun, music shopping and exhibits. Features: Greek food made by parishioners, Balkava, Loukoumades (hot honey puffs), Greek wines, Gyro's and Souvlai (shishkabobs), jewelry, clothing, icons, paintings and a Greek grocery store. Admission is $5.00 for adults, children 12 and under are free and free admission Friday before 5 pm. For more information visit www.greekfestival.org

Turkish Fest Oct. 4, 2008
Location: Jones Plaza, Downtown Houston
Features: Turkish foods (gyro's, tapa's; Turkish wine and beer, Turkish Tea and Coffee (now that will keep you awake!), tour sites of Turkey with informative informational presentations, listen to music, watch the folk dancers, and even belly dancing! Sponsored by Turkish Cultural Foundation, Best Buy and Houston Arts Alliance. For more information visit: www.atahouston.org.

St. Andrews Celtic Festival
Oct. 5 2008 Location: St Andrews Episcopal Church 19th/Heights Boulevard
This festival begins with the "Kirking of the Celts" (which is a not to be missed event!) and then add musical performers, dance, crafts, food, drink, games and crafts. Great family fun for all! Admission is $5.00 per family, $3.00 per person, and children under 10 are admitted free. For more information visit www.saintandrewsepiscopal.org.

Katy Rice Harvest Festival Oct. 11-12
(Parade is Oct. 4) Downtown Katy Texas, about 40 miles west of Houston
Each year Katy, Texas celebrates it beginnings as a rice farming community that grew thanks to demand as well as the development of trains running through Old Town Katy. This festival includes a Rice cooking challenge, live entertainment, over 200 food and craft booths, a kiddie play area, carnival rides, a Miss Katy pageant and photography contest. Admission is $6.00 for adults children 12 and under are free. Note: Carnival rides are extra. For more information visit www.katychamber.com.

Texasia 2008 Oct. 11-12 11 am - 7 pm
Location Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St. and Smith St. Houston, Texas
The pond at City Hall becomes a showcase and replica of the Orient, with an "Emperor's Garden" and Cafe Society from Old Saigon. This festival also features dances, games of fortune, martial arts, and yummy food by Kim Son's. Beer by Tiger Beer. Admission is free. For more information visit www.texasia.net.

Festa Italiana Oct. 11-12 2008
Location: Houston Farm and Ranch Club, Houston, Texas
The Festa Italiana is great family fun with music and dancing, traditional Italian food and deserts (the "ice cream" is to yummy and the salads to die for!) that includes an Italian-American Idol contest, children's activities, and wine tasting. Admission is $6.00 for adults, children 12 and under are free. Parking is free. Come ready to dance, we danced till all hours of the night! For more information visit www.houstonitalianfestival.com .

DeutschesFest Oct. 12, 2008 11:30-4 pm
Location: Salem Lutheran Ministries, 22601 Lutheran Church Rd. Tomball Texas
This is a local festival with family fun, German cuisine and entertainment , silent auctions, music and dance. Great chance to celebrate your German heritage, and entrance is free. Child will enjoy the games. For more information visit salem4u.com.

Texas Renaissance Festival Oct. 11-Nov. 30 2008 Saturdays and Sundays and Thanksgiving Friday Plantersville, TX (near Houston and Lake Conroe)
Go back in time to the world of Lords and Ladies, jousting and feasting, strolling through the garden with your lady love, playing games with your children and including mazes, carriage rides, petting zoo, and bows and arrows. Food ranges from Scottish eggs to fish and chips, but old fashioned American festival fair is available also. Other food courts include wine and spirits, beer, desserts and treats. Performances from music to skills on a horse or with the bow and arrow will be exhibited, as well as music and court jesters. Admission varies: $11.00 -$16.00 adults, $5.00-6.00 children. If purchased on-line there is a processing fee. For more information and to purchase tickets on line visit www.texernfest.com.

Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival Oct. 10-12 2008Location: Downtown Conroe, Texas
Celebrate your Cajun, at this family fun filled festival near Lake Conroe. The kids area includes a petting zoo, pony rides, amusements and even their own stage to dance. Delicious Cajun specialties like Fried Catfish, shrimp gumbo, frog legs, alligator, boudin, sausage, rice and beans will be available as well as musical performances. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.conroecajuncatfishfestival.com. Tickets are $10.00 for adults or $6.00 on line, and children under 12 are free. If you take a weekend there there are some wonderful bed and breakfast, a Fairfield Inn, fishing, boating, antique shopping and nearby Sam Houston Park. 27th

Annual Galveston Island Oktoberfest Oct. 24-25 Friday: 7-11pm, Sat. 11am-7 pm Location 24th St. and Winnie
This free admission Oktoberfest features bands playing German music, authentic German food and beer, arts, crafts, gifts booths, auction and raffle, as well as children's activities. Be sure to visit some of the other great places on the island while you are hear this weekend. Take a walk along the beach or visit Moody Gardens, with dinner at Rainforest Cafe. For more information visit www.firstlutherangalveston.com.

The International Quilt Festival Oct. 30-Nov. 2 Location: George Brown Convention Center 1001 Avenida de Las America's, Houston Texas Thurs. -Sat. 10 am - 7 pm; Sun. 11 am- 5 pm.
Featuring quilts in history, sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution, country living classics, sponsored by Country Living Magazine, as well as shopping, classes, workshops, supplies and fashion. For more information visit: www.quilts.com

First Daycare/Preschool Experience: 7 Survival Tips for Parents

2008-08-28T16:22:00.004-05:00

Today, I attended my daughter's "open house" as she will start preschool next week. I know that with the end of summer, I am not the only one who had children going to school or daycare for the first time, so here are some tips, hints and advice from a mom of 4, the oldest in college and a former daycare administrator and teachers.

That first day back to work is difficult. But what may be even harder is that first day and the weeks after, dropping your child or infant off at daycare. All your worries and fears appear long before you pull into the driveway and as you hand your baby over to their caregiver or hug and kiss your preschooler or kindergartner. Every horror story about daycare you have ever heard is remembered on the drive to work, and before you even finish starting your computer you are on the phone to the daycare provider, whether it be an individual or center, asking for information about your son or daughter. Here are tips from someone who has been a preschool/daycare teacher and director of 6 years, an at home daycare provider and someone who has already dropped two children off to school and daycare (20 and 13 now) as well as in the fall preparing my younger children for their first preschool experience.

1. Be Calm: Babies and children can pick up on the stress you are experiencing. Many moms and dads are upset, worried, fearful and stressed about dropping their children off for the first time and during the first few weeks. There is a perfectly natural reason for this, but it is best to learn to control you emotions so that your child does not feel them also. This is your child and and naturally you feel that no one can really take as good care of her as you can -- and maybe you are right. But your sighs, tears, high pitched voice or any other signs of stress actually cause the child to act upset, worried and fearful.

Children are great imitators and they learn from us how to react to situations. If you get upset, tense and cry as your child, especially an infant will detect those feelings from you. Try to cut down on your stress, especially in the morning. Make sure to leave plenty of time for your drive. Prepare your items to take with you the night before. If you are religious, pray for a minute before walking in the daycare or removing your child from the car seat. Cut back a little on the caffeine in the morning, as it is a stimulant. Take deep breathes. Use a calming and happy voice when taking your child to daycare, talk about a happy day. To the very young especially mom's voice and face are great indicators of situations and your you look and sound are what your child will respond to. Try to stay long enough to make sure your child is settled and needs addresses as well as a moment with your caregiver, but do not stay too long as that makes the separation that much harder on the children, and you.

2. Make drop off time a happy time: Be sure to get in lots of snuggles, kisses, and happy voices. Talk to your child, even your infant and reinforce that Ms. . . is going to take very good care of you while mommy goes to work (not bye bye -- that should be fun stuff to do with her). When mommy comes home she will play with you and snuggle some more. I love you very much. Go out to the car, cry if you need to then repair your makeup and go to work.

3. Call for Information: If you feel the need to call and check on your child, go ahead. But remember that it can be hard on the staff if you do it several times a day. If a teacher takes time to talk to you, that takes time away from the babies or other children. Try to call at generally accepted nap times like 1030 am or 200 pm when babies are most likely to be sleeping or between 1-3 for toddlers and preschoolers. Also, make sure your daycare is providing you with a daily report, who what when where and why of what child does during the day, for example when they were asleep, ate, how much and diaper changes as well as any activities they enjoyed.

4. Watch your teacher or caregiver with the children: See how the teacher or caregiver reacts when you drop your child off. Are they warm and welcoming? Do you feel or see them comforting babies that are upset? Are they taking the extra time needed for infants? How many people are in the room? Be sure to allow for the fact that in some cases drop off time with 4 parents and 4 children can be pretty hectic.

5. Make pick up time a happy time, but not too happy: Don't over compensate for being gone. Be happy to see your child, talk lovingly to her or him; snuggle and yes, spend that extra time reading a book or playing toys or tummy time in the floor when you get home. It's OK to cook dinner 30 minutes later so that you and your child can have that extra time together. Encourage Dad to spend another 30 minutes when he gets home playing with her so you can do the cooking without feeling distracted.

6. Evaluate your expectations: Are your expectations too high? Remember if you are in a daycare center setting your child will be one of a few getting attention. You can not expect that your child will receive the majority or all of the attention that they received with you one on one. They can still receive quality care even if they have to wait a few extra minutes to get a bottle. After all, how often do you drop everything to address their needs? Do you jump out of the shower, or do they have to wait a minute till you get dried off? However, there is a difference between not being cared for and not being the center of the care. If your expectations are very high, I recommend a nanny or child care provider for your home. However, many caregivers are excellent at balancing the needs of the children as well as they providing each child with individual attention and affection. Find the caregiver that can do both and you have a treasure.

7. Listen to your intuition: there is nothing like it in the world especially when it comes to our children. If after a couple of weeks or even a few days you don't see improvement, then maybe this is not the right child care arrangement for you. If it is not, you need to find other arrangements both for your child's well being, your job security and your piece of mind to make changes. However, remember, Monday mornings are hard, your child has spent the whole weekend with you and now they are going away. Also remember that at certain ages children will experience separation anxiety, be sure to make your judgments based on your child's development and progress in daycare.

First and foremost, make sure that your child's needs are met. Ensure that they are receiving quality care and affection as well as individual attention at points throughout the day. If all those needs are being meet and you practice these or similar tips and techniques your daycare experience will be that much more peaceful and you will leave feeling better about your decision to work. If at some point that is not the case, and circumstances do not improve then the only choice you have is to look for other arrangements more to your expectations and desires. But try these first and see if your cares, concerns, fears and anxiety can become comfort, care and happiness for the new and exciting experiences your child will be able to have. Enjoy the best of both worlds and enjoy the wonderful opportunities to be with your child.

Summertime Blues

2008-08-07T12:14:00.003-05:00

Well, it is Back to School time, and like many parents normally I look forward to the older children gone all day to give me some peace and quiet, though we parents have to work twice as hard when they get back on their homework and other things, and this year my youngests will be going away to pre school, so the Summertime Blues are kicking in. I look back over the summer and remember all those great plans that we had when school was over and wonder how we managed to miss so many of them!

But even though the end of summer is approaching there are still things we can do as a family. In the Houston area we are so lucky to have many weekend get aways available to us. And, now that prime travel season is over, my parents can even come visit. With these things in mind I decided to explore weekend get aways, especially at the area's natural settings and lakes.

Here are my picks. . . what are yours?

Horseshoe Bay, Texas: Located near Austin and Lake LBJ it offers bed and breakfasts, hotels and resorts for week long or weekend get aways. It offers a wide range of water activities including boating, fishing, golf courses, nature trails and a view of the hillside country of Texas.

Lake Sommerville: This is a state park south of Houston, near Brenham Texas. Activities include camping, picnicking, boating, fishing; hiking and biking, volleyball, horseshoes, basketball, backpacking, and equestrian use (visitors must bring their own horses). More than 20 miles of trail are open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians affording visitors the opportunity to exercise and enjoy the beauty of the parks. Water lovers can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and skiing on Lake Somerville.

Lake Travis, near the Volente Water park. You can rent boats etc. You can also stay upstairs in the apartments at the Marina. Several interesting and entertaining festivals are coming up in the area including the Austin City Limits Music Fest.

An easy day trip that my husband and I snuck away to, and took the kids was to Shiner, Texas were we took a tour of the Spoetzl Brewery, home to our beloved Shiner Beers. You take a mini tour of the facilities, do some shopping in the store and have some free tastings. They are small, but delicious and you can be there and back in one day! Note, they don't do tours on Saturdays, so you simply do the last one of the day on Friday and begin your weekend early.

Along the same lines, Conroe now is also home to a great little brewing company, Southern Star,which has been featured in Houston, Dallas, and Austin news and is growing in distributorship. Check their website for information on tours, with the heat of summer they only have a few, but I foresee many more as things cool off this fall, and their beers heat up in popularity!

So, even though the end of summer is approaching there are still great opportunities out there to get away, even during the school season. With the pleasant weather just around the corner and the thousands of things to do here, "ain't it Great?!"

What are some of your favorites?

Boredom Busters from the Kitchen and Library

2008-07-15T23:39:00.004-05:00

I am sure that now that it is halfway through the summer, the refrain of "I'm Bored" is becoming more frequent. . . and if you are like most families there is only so many things you can do to stay entertained that doesn't cost a bundle. And when the pool is closed and rainy days or afternoons arrive what can you do to keep everyone entertained?

Here are a few ideas:

Get in the kitchen: Bake cookies, yes it is a tried and true "recipe" for success. Getting everyone in the kitchen makes a mess, but one which everyone can enjoy from start to finish. You can also try these smoothie recipes, or these 10 Cool and Fun Summertime Snacks.
Create Your Own Mini Ocean: Fill a clear plastic liter bottle 3/4 full with water. Add blue food coloring then add cooking oil. Leave about 1 inch at the top of the bottle. Show preschool children how the oil and water do not mix. Tilting the bottle back and forth causes a wave effect.
After the experiment mix colors to show....
blue and yellow make green
blue and red make purple
Run Away Pepper: A great science demonstration. Sprinkle pepper over the top of a cup of water. Put a dab of soap on your finger and touch the center of the pepper. Show children how the soap repels the pepper to the side of the glass.
Your Local Library: Houston and the surrounding area libraries are full of summertime fun! You have reading programs (for which you can get free tickets to the Circus and other great prizes); Teen programs including a "CD swap" where teens can trade others for those CD's they are missing; Cultural Programs (check the listings at your library for information on cultural events) and mini workshops on computer skills and many other things. Many, like Katherine Tyra also offer free movies!

So in the week coming up, try a few new ideas at home or get out and visit your local library to find out what great activities they have to offer you and your family and avoid one more week of "I'm Bored."

What's in Houston, this 4th of July?

2008-07-01T09:53:00.003-05:00

CHEVY'S FREEDOM OVER TEXAS WITH FIREWORKS PRESENTED BY SHELL FEATURES COUNTRY MUSIC SENSATIONS SARA EVANS, MIRANDA LAMBERT & JO DEE MESSINA

Free Day at the Houston Zoo
www.houstonzoo.org
6200 Golf Course DrHouston, TX 77030(713) 533-6500

Big Backyard Barbecue
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Heritage Square (central courtyard)
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
5–10p.m.
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch announces the return of the July 4th Big Backyard Barbecue presented by Hoar Construction. The Independence Day event kicks off at 5:00 p.m. and includes live entertainment from Outlaw Lynn & Who's Drivin¿, colorful clowns, great food, a fabulous fireworks display and much more. The event is free and open to the public.
For more information, visit www.lacenterra.com or call (281) 395-5533.

Celebrate the 4th at the VFW
Katy Heritage Park
11a.m. Contact 832-452-4099 for more information.

Spring Texas area Events

Willie Nelson's Family Picnic
Country music icon and friends celebrate this 36th annual event at Sam Houston Race Park on Saturday, July 5, 2008.

Fourth of July at Miller Outdoor Theatre
The Houston Symphony performs the "1812 Overture" accompanied by a 16-cannon salute. Activities start at 8pm; fireworks follow.

Star Fleet Entertainment Yachts
Website 280 Grove Rd, Kemah, TX Cruise around Clear Lake while enjoying a great BBQ dinner, open bar and amazing view of the Clear Lake fireworks.

Minute Maid Park
501 Crawford St, Houston, TX Astros take on the Dodgers on July 3 with the first pitch at 1:05pm. Free visors for the first 10,000 fans, plus $1 hot dogs. ZiegenBock Music Series features a postgame concert with Max Stalling.

East Beach
1923 Boddecker Dr, Galveston, TX Celebrate the holiday at Galveston's party beach for bikini contests, live bands and booze.

Sam Houston Race Park
7575 North Sam Houston Pkwy, Houston, TX Come by for live racing action and live music in the evening, plus a huge fireworks display following the final race (9:30pm). Also: face painting, kids games, concession stands.

Rock the Dock
Live music next to the bay at the Kemah Boardwalk every Thursday evening through August, featuring great Texas sounds including R&B, pop, rock and blues.

Fourth Of July Festivities In The Woodlands Town Center Include Houston Symphony Performance, Parade And 11th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival

Sources:
http://houston.citysearch.com/roundup/39567
http://www.houstontx.gov/specialevents/cfot/index.html
http://houston.about.com/od/artsentertainment/tp/fouthofjuly.htm

Toys R Us Event this Weekend

2008-06-27T09:14:00.002-05:00

Is your child a fan of Thomas the Train? If so, check out the Houston area Toys R Us locations to find out if they are hosting the special Thomas the Train free event on June 28th, 11 am to 1 pm. During this special event, you can get a free pack of Thomas the Train Trading Cards, Story Time, Coloring and More! Sounds like a great boredom buster to me and not too early in the morning.

For more information visit TOYS R US**IN STORE FREEBIE or call the store location nearest you!

Have a great weekend!

Father's Day

2008-06-02T10:26:00.004-05:00

With Father's Day approaching, I started thinking more and more about the wonderful things my husband and father do (and did) for me. In honor of Father's Day, I decided to write my dad this letter, celebrating many of the things he did while I was growing up, that I didn't understand them then, but do now!

I also am sponsoring a Father's Day contest . . . send houstonsahm.com your favorite memory about a Father, Grandfather or your husband and be entered to win a copy of Positive Parenting for Every Week of the Year, by local author Momie Tullottes (yes, it is a pen name, but with 6 children you can see where it came from). Please enjoy my memories and be sure to submit your own to gps4moms@gmail.com . The winner will be drawn at the end of June and your free copy of Positive Parenting will be on it's way!

A Letter to My Father . . .

Dear Dad,

There is the saying, "with age comes wisdom." And as I was growing up there were many times when you said to me, "You don't understand this now, but you will someday." You were right, someday is here and many of the things you taught me, protected me from and yes, even allowed me to be exposed to have come and gone and been learned from. Maybe it didn't seem like at the time, but not only do I remember all those life lessons, but I also remember so many things that you did with and for me as I was growing up. I remember my little hand holding yours while walking. I remember you telling me not to let the bully at school beat me up, ever again. I remember the family vacations, and visiting my grandmother. I remember horseback riding and summer camps and music lessons. I even remember you putting a helmet on my head, and taking me on what was at the time, the most thrilling ride of my life on your motorcycle with mom looking on unhappily. But I know that with my arms wrapped around you that I was safe.

One of my favorite memories was of getting up early in the morning, creeping out of our cabin on the lake and fishing with you and the other grownups. You taught me how to bait the hook and catch a fish. You taught me the patience to sit there for long periods of time. You taught me that even the messy jobs still need to get done, by making me clean and fillet the fish. You also taught me that it's okay to take pride in a job well done, as I seasoned and fried fish, and hush puppies and tossed the homemade coleslaw and enjoyed every bite along with our friends and family. I learned that it is ok to be myself. I remember on Sunday mornings looking over at you in the church pew with your coat and tie on, almost unfamiliar to me, but looking down and seeing your "good" cowboy boots on and knowing that behind that Sunday outfit, my real dad existed and with that knowledge I was able to express myself in all things, with confidence. After all how many moms do you see at the playgroup park play date wearing their cowboy hat? And I did that before living in Texas!

I remember you coaching my soccer team. And being there for every game in high school. I remember you being at every choir concert and singing performance. I also remember you getting up every morning, long before I was and leaving for work and coming home late so you could work overtime to pay for all those things I enjoyed. I remember the 20 minute phone rule, which at 15 I thought was stupid, but now with my own teenager realize it is so the rest of the family can either use the phone or just so we don't have to hear the giggles, squeals and the word, "like" every three seconds. I remember the sacrifices to put me through private school and quite often I remember every eye roll I ever sent your way, when I see it repeated on my own daughter's face.

But most importantly I remember these things, how much you love me, how much you tried to protect me from bullies, and Bogey men, from bad boyfriends and fast cars. I remember the senior photo you took, that was so much better than anything the professional photographer took, maybe because you see things in me that no one else could. I remember that you could fix anything and quite often did-and still do. So, for all those times that I never said, "Thank You," or "I love you," here I am saying it the best way I can. The good times and bad are not forgotten, but learned from, grown from and now being used to raise my own daughters. I pray every day they will meet a man like their Grandpa. One who still holds hands with Grandma and likes to take walks on the beach. A man who encourages us to give to charity instead of buying presents, masking his generous spirit in a Grinch-like attitude. A husband who will help them raise their children in tender loving care and strength. Since their father is in so many ways like their Grandpa, I think they stand a pretty good chance. Everything you did, and said and taught me still lingers today, to help me through each day raising my own daughters. The lessons learned are not forgotten and for each and every one of them I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love you and Happy Father's Day.

Memorial Day Events Around Houston and Recipes for Staying Home

2008-05-16T23:19:00.004-05:00

Summer Kick Off is approaching and it begins with Memorial Day weekend. This three day holiday gives us all time to celebrate the contributions of our military over the years with friends and family. If you are looking for ideas, besides back yard barbecue, Houston has it all . . . give any one of these a try!

Escape the heat (or great even if it's raining) and see the Dinosaurs:

IMAX - Dinosaurs 3D at the Museum of Natural Science, 1 Hermann Circle Drive
PHONE 713.639.IMAX for details

Visit the Holocaust Museum Houston
Details: 5/26/2008 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: Morgan Family Center

Dancin' in the Streets - Motown and More Revue
Explosive soul music revue featuring the legendary music of the Motown era. 8:15pm,
Miller Outdoor Theater, 100 Concert Dr.May 24

Mercer's Spring Bamboo Festival
The festival features lessons on growing and dividing bamboo, pest and disease control, landscape uses, and what you can do with bamboo once you grow it. All ages.
8:00am - 5:00pm, Mercer Arboretum, 22306 Aldine Westfield Rd, Humble.

The Downtown Aquarium
All weekend long the aquarium will be hosting Memorial Day events and music. Take the children down there, pack a cooler and let them play in the splash pad while you enjoy the holiday music.

Staying home? Have family and friends visiting?
Try this drink recipe for your Memorial Day BBQ

Raspberry Lemonade
INGREDIENTS
1 (12 fluid ounce) can frozen raspberry lemonade concentrate
3 cups water
3/4 teaspoon lime juice
1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup fresh raspberries, garnish
1 cup fresh mint, garnish

DIRECTIONS
In a large punch bowl, combine raspberry lemonade concentrate, water and lime juice. Stir in lemon-lime soda and crushed ice. Garnish each glass with a fresh raspberry and a mint leaf.

Courtesy of Family Fun try this recipe with your kids

Strawberry Pizza
Makes two 8-inch "pizzas"
For the crust:2 cups flour 1 tbsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 2 tbsp. sugar 1 cup heavy cream 2 tbsp. butter, melted
For the topping:½ cup heavy cream 1 tsp. sugar or more to taste 12 fresh strawberries, sliced
Preheat oven to 450 degrees and measure the dry ingredients.
Give your child a fork and have him stir the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Then he can dump the cream and melted butter into the bowl and stir the mixture with a rubber spatula until the dough clumps together.

Next, let him knead the dough a few times in the bowl. Help him sandwich stray crumbs into the dough until they're mixed in. Divide into two balls.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough with a floured rolling pin into two rounds, each about 1/4 inch thick. Be sure to let your kid take a few spins with the pin. Bake crusts on baking sheets until golden, about 15 minutes. Cool.

While the crusts bake, have your child pour the ½ cup of heavy cream into a bowl. Beat at high speed for about 30 seconds, then add sugar and beat until it holds stiff peaks. Give your child a big spoon and have him spread half the whipped cream on each crust. Let him grab a handful of strawberry "pepperoni" and scatter it across the surface. Slice like a pizza and enjoy.

Have a wonderful and family filled holiday!

In Honor of Earth Day this Month

2008-04-29T07:15:00.002-05:00

My husband teases me as I carry my large canvas bag into Wal-Mart and hand it to the cashier to fill instead of using those hundreds of plastic bags that I end up taking home and "saving" hoping to remember to take them back to Wal-Mart for recycling or find another use for. But, just like many of you, I forget, or I get so many of them that I don't know what to do.

In honor of Earth Day this month, I thought I would share some free finds that can help you "go green" and "save some green" in your household and cut down on waste and trash along with provide some ideas on helping the environment and being healthier.

Save some Green:
Get a Free 16 minute DVD from Mattel, from their Planet Heroes Collection, designed for children ages 3 and older. These heroes can help you children learn about the solar system and planets and even entertain them in the car providing you with a safer driving experience :-) To make sure it's something you want for your home, check out the trailer first.

FREE COFFEE AT CARVEL CARVEL ICE CREAM Free Artic Blend Or A Blended Coffee 8 oz Size (Flavors Vary By Location)** Thursday May 1st From 4 6 PM Visit Website for Store Locations
Wal Mart Lipton Tea to Go Free Giveway in Stores May 2-9 See Website for Details
Ben and Jerry's Free Scoop Day April 29th See Store Locator for Participating Stores Baskin Robbins .31 cent scoop night.

Go Green:
Follow the link below to take a 10 question quiz, article links provided for every questions so you can learn more about the environment and get the answers right. If you score at least 9 out of 10 correctly you will win a reusable tote from Earthbound Farms. Great for bringing grocery's home and saving the environment from the hundreds of plastic bags!

Kroger's offers reusable bags for purchase . . . but if you want to go green and save some green visit their website at http://www.designagreenbag.com/ and design your own bag. After you submit your design and vote for your favorite, a "free bag" will be added to your Kroger card for you to use your next visit to the store. So, you get to save some green and go green! Must have a Kroger card, and if you don't register for yours online when you visit. While you are there, check out Kroger's new free samples.

GO GREEN AND SAVE GREEN:
Try shopping at consignment stores. One of the newest on my side of Houston is Crayon's Children's Resale Shop, located at 15969 Westheimer Road/FM 1093Houston TX 77082281-556-9086(located 4 lights behind West Oaks Mall & Hwy 6) and under new management. While you are there saving money and the environment by "recycling" toys and clothing, bring along your extra plastic bags from Wal Mart, Kroger's and other stores. They use them for their shopping bags. See if your local consignment store can use them too.

Looking for some fun activities to do with your children to teach them about the Earth and the environment? Check out this Earth Day ABC Word game and it's many variations.

Remember, Earth Day doesn't have to be just one day out of the year. For it to really count it needs to happen every day, and every little bit helps from purchasing gently used goods to using our own shopping bags, to recycling. In this way we can help the environment and teach our children valuable lessons.

Free Safety Festival Sat. April 12th Open to Public

2008-04-09T13:36:00.009-05:00

Looking for something to do this weekend with the family? Did you miss the HEB Festival? Or did you enjoy it so much you want more? Well, this isn't as large as the HEB Festival but it should be fun, and best of all it's FREE! One of my favorite words.

Safety Festival – The Westfield Terra Neighborhood Watch and The Westlake Fire Department are co-sponsoring a community Safety Festival for its homeowner & the general public.

Saturday, April 12, 2008 from 10 am – 3 pm
at the Westfield Terra Community Clubhouse
Location: 20222 Misty Cove Dr. Katy TX.

Information, display booths and safety services personnel provide education and safety material on home hazards, water safety, home security, poison control, fire safety, water safety, D.A.R.E., first aid, and other topics as well as concessions and children’s activities. This event is free and open to the public. For more information visit the website at http://westfieldterraestates.org/.

The line up includes:

FREE Children's Activities include moon walk and popcorn, create your own badge, face painting and more! Even a musical party for the kids at 12:30.

Door Prizes Include:

Simply Stated Staging: $25.00 Gift Card to Toys R Us
One Year Subscription to LifeLock, courtesy of New Creative Writing
Child Proofing Gift Bag courtesy of Freebie Finds
First Aid Kits courtesy of Nationwide Insurance
Jr Lifeguard T-Shirt courtesy of A Beautiful Pools
Dining Gift Card, courtesy of A Beautiful Pools
5 FREE Memberships to Houston SAHM.com Discount Club

FREE AVON SAMPLES FOR THE FIRST 200 ATTENDEES!

Random Drawings will be held throughout the event for Contest Prizes

Participating Vendors:
A Beautiful Pools

Pool Safety and Life Saving Demonstration 11:00 am. at the Community Pool

Houstonsahm.com

Simply Stated Staging Will be providing home owner information on arranging and decorating your home safely, as well as safety tips for your home sale and children's activities.

New Creative Writing
Information on Identity Theft Protection and Prevention

Freebie Finds
Great free site with no gimmicks, providing children's activities and the best places to find free information, coupons, samples, products for homes and children.

Safety information for Families: Children age 0-10 courtesy of Kelsey Seybold Pediatrics & Christus St Katherine Hospital

Brinks Home Security Systems

Helping Hands of Katy

Musical Chairs : Children's Activities

Nationwide Insurance
Our local Nationwide Insurance office will be providing safety and insurance information as well as contest prizes.

Katy ISD Police and Dare Program

Harris County Sheriff's Department Crime Prevention Unit

West 1-10 Fire Department with Home Fire Simulator

AKA-American Kids Athletics

Fox's Pizza Den: Pizza available for purchase for only $1.00 a slice!

Special Acknowledgments and Door Prizes Offered by Our Vendors Listed Above and

Katy Area Avon

Randalls

Leslie's Pools and Spas

NRA/Eddie Eagle

Special Mother's Day Craft Gifts

2008-03-25T16:15:00.007-05:00

The holiday's keep coming faster and faster this year, and before you know it Mother's Day will be here. We mom's and motherly types are softies when it comes to gifts made by the special children in our lives. If you have a mom, grandmother, aunt or other mother figure in your life that you would like to show your love to this Mother's Day, try these crafts with your children and see what a wonderful, and quite possibly, tearful response you get.

(Sample of handprint sweatshirt pictured)

Family Collage: Go through the family album with your chidlren, they will love looking at all the pictures and listening to you tell them about each photo and memory.

You can keep it simple with photographs and gluing, but to really get creative and have some fun include scrapbook paper and some fun embellishments like the word MOM on a sticker, which the child can place on every picture of their mother. Other easy embellishments can be cut out frames or a poem about mom’s printed from the computer, one good resource for mother’s day poems is DLTK.com. http://www.dltk-holidays.com/mom/cards.html

Flower Pot: Tried and true, but kids just love getting their hands dirty. Pick up inexpensive flower pots at the craft store. On a tight budget, use pretty larger size Dixie cups. Fill with soil and help kid’s plant seed. If using the flower pots decorate with stickers, paint, ribbons or large buttons (too big to swallow).

Handprint/Footprint Art: There are several different handprint and footprint creations you can make for mom and grandma, here are my favorites.

T-Shirt/Sweatshirt: Purchase a shirt at Hobby Lobby and waterproof paints. For added details purchase puffy or glitter paints. The puffy paint with fine point edge is great for printing words, like, “I love my mom so much I can’t keep my hands off her.” Paint the child’s hand and help them press different colored hand prints all over the shirt.

Poster: Get any color poster board you want and then paint the child’s hands and feet with brightly colored or glittery paint. Help them place hand and footprints on the poster board. Print out these Mother’s Day poems on good card stock paper:
Footprint Poem

The pitter patter of little feet

Leave behind something dear and sweet

A precious treasure for me to keep

The memories of your little feet.

Handprints Poem
This is my hand.

My hand will do A 1000 loving things with you,

And you will remember

When I am tall...That once my hand Was just this small.

Glue poems onto poster board. Let everything dry and frame in poster board frames available from Wal-Mart.
(Great for Grandmothers too!)

Mom’s Placemat: Mom gets her own specially designed placemat, great for serving Mother’s Day Breakfast or Dinner. Cut out pictures from magazines of different activities of moms and children together, mom’s walking, planting, playing, chasing, whatever. Allow the children to choose the pictures they like and glue them down onto the card stock. For just a small charge each of them can be taken to a Kinko’s or teacher supply store and be laminated, but if you have a tight budget, wait until nap time and cover them yourself with clear contact paper.

Variation: Queen for a Day Placemat: Write, stamp or glue letters for Queen for a Day onto 8 ½ x 11 card stock, cut out and glue queenly items like a crown, mantle or scepter.

Each special woman in your life will truly appreciate the care and planning that goes into these gifts from the heart. Our grandma was tearfully happy when she received her family photo collage last year, that included photos of great grandparents also.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail to Houston Texas

2008-03-16T16:26:00.005-05:00

Looking for things to do with your children this Easter? Staying in Houston or have family visiting you here? These are my picks for great Easter activities for you and your family all across the greater Houston area.

Free Pictures with the Easter Bunny at participating Walmart stores Sat. and Sunday, March 15th and 16th and March 21 and 22 from 10 am to 2 pm

Katy Mills Mall

Visit the Easter Bunny, have your child's picture taken and on Wednesday’s Kidgit Club Members can get a free 5x7 photo with the Easter bunny. The Easter bunny will be at the mall March 1-22, Mon-Sat. 11 am-8pm and Sunday 12-6. After meeting the Easter bunny and having a great time shopping, don’t forget to stop by the Rainforest Café for dining experience like no other.

On March 22 at 8 am the Rainforest Café will be hosting a Breakfast with the Easter Bunny with photos and fun. Reservations are required and may be made by telephone at 281-644-5000.

The Houston Zoo Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
March 22, 2008, 9-10:30 am

Parents and children may visit the Houston Zoo and some of its most furry of creatures with the Houston Zoo keepers. Breakfast includes a hot breakfast buffet including eggs, French Toast and juice is served. The Easter bunny will be available for photographs throughout the event. Afterwards stay and visit all the other animals.
Prices are:
Zoo Member Adult: $19.00
Zoo Member Child: $14.50
Infants: $0.00

Non-Member Adult: $23.00
Non-Member Child: $18.50
Infants: $0.00

Miller Outdoor Theatre
March 23 10:15 am

Miller Outdoor Theatre will be hosting a special religious worship service in conjunction with the St. Luke’s United Methodist Church of Houston, Texas. Dr. Tom Pace, the church’s Senior Pastor will be presenting the Easter Sunday sermon. Religions painter, Mike Lewis (known as The Jesus Painter) special guest singer and musician Ken Medema, who designs each performance especially for that day, and the Pure Sound Youth Choice from St. Luke’s will be on hand to create a joyful, musical and soulful experience of this most religious of holidays.

Galveston Beach

If you are visiting Galveston Beach for your Spring Break or Easter holiday, no trip would be complete without a visit to Moody Gardens. This attraction offers an amazing aquarium with sea life from around the world, an interactive rainforest pyramid experience where the animals and lush tropical life are up close and personal and cruising in the bay. But on March 23, it is also host to a free Easter Egg the Easter Bunny, participate in crafts and games and visit the animals in the petting zoo.

Many local restaurants across the region are hosting special Easter brunches including The State Grill, Las Alamedas, Brennan’s of Houston, Hugo’s and Baba Yega. Prices vary and reservations are recommended.

Churches, restaurants, and parks throughout the greater Houston area have special events planned for Easter Sunday including brunches, picnics and Easter Eggs Hunts. All across the area communities are preparing to celebrate one of the most joyous holidays for children and families. From egg hunts to religious celebrations, Houston Texas is a good place to visit or live this Easter holiday season. No matter where you go, Houstonians and visitors alike will find just what they want here in Houston, Texas.

St. Patrick's Day Fun for Houston Moms & Families

2008-03-07T14:47:00.003-06:00

Congratulations to our Winner of the National Dental Health Month Contest! Thank you for your entries and we hope you enjoy your new Sonicare UV Sanitizer. Be sure to check back next month for our Mother's Day Contest.

Things to do for St. Patrick's Day in Houston, TX

The 49th Annual Houston Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
Location: Minute Maid Park at the intersections of Texas and Hamilton Streets in Downtown Houston
Time: Sat. March 15th 2008 at 12 p.m.
Cost: Free

The first parades in Houston began in the 1880’s with many Irish immigrants celebrating their heritage each year in the “Irish Town” section of the city. The parade would take place in the Market Square and move from pub to pub growing in size and fun as citizens of Houston added to the parade festivities.

This year’s parade features approximately 127 different participants including the charities of Project St. Brendan and the “International Space School.”

St. Patrick's Day "1960" Parade and Celebrations
Location: Champions Forest Drive and FM 1960
Time: 2:00 p.m., March 16th, 2008
The parade begins at the Wells Fargo parking lot at Champions Forest Drive and FM 1960, and ends at The Boat Seafood Restaurant on 1960.

The parade route is approximately 3.5 miles and attendees should try to get there as early as possible as approximately 70,000 people are anticipated.

Benefits go to the Cypress Creek EMS Public Education Programs such as car seat inspections, bike rodeos, and ambulance tours for children. Over the past five years the parade has raised over $100,000.

Have a chance to go out without the children? Try these ideas. . .
Sam Houston Race Park on Saint Patrick’s Day
Location: Sam Houston Race Park
Time: 7:00 p.m. Race Time
Cost: Tickets vary on seating and price varies on how much you spend on beer, the concessions, VIP seating, Irish celebrations, and with eight bars and two restaurants you have lots of choices.

The race park will be celebrating this Irish holiday with green beer, bagpipes, leprechauns and 10 live races. Don’t know how to bet? Don’t worry the race park also offers you a little hands on training and maybe the live leprechauns with bring you the luck of the Irish and a pot of gold.

There are hundreds of bars, beer joints and “Irish” pubs in Houston and many of them are offering special drinks, entertainment and prices. Some of the most well known are: The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, McElroy’s, Brian O'Neill's Traditional Irish Pub, and Slainte.

Staying home? Try this recipe for Shepherd's Pie:
Pale Ale Shepherd’s Pie
(Michelob for those not used to beers—Sierra Nevada or other favorite Pale Ale for the Beer Snob)
3 lbs lamb
1 onion diced
1 carrot diced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
1tsp fresh thyme
2 cloves garlic minced
12 oz Pale Ale
2 cups whole kernel corn
6 cups mashed potatoes
Salt and pepper to taste

Season meat and brown in large pan. Add the onion, carrot, rosemary, thyme, garlic and Pale Ale. Simmer it until it thickens. Pour into a 9”x13” baking dish. Sprinkle corn over top, spread mashed potatoes. Bake at 350 degree oven for 20 minutes or until lightly brown.

Or visit houstonsahm.com Lesson Plans page for ideas about activities to do with your children as well as free printable coloring pages.

Want to send out St. Patrick's Day Greeting Cards? Visit Fisher Price.com (http://www.fisher-price.com/us/printcards/) online for free print, color and mail St. Patrick's Day cards for you and the children to create together. Have fun -- use glitter and whatever else makes you happy.

For older children and adults try Superkids WordSearch Puzzle Creator http://www.superkids.com/aweb/tools/words/search/ to create your own word find puzzles.

No matter what fun you have this holiday, be safe, be happy and most of all be "green."

Beannachtam ne Femle Padraig! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

My Underwear is On Inside Out

2008-02-24T19:27:00.006-06:00

I hope you are all enjoying the National Dental Health Month Contest and I look forward to your entries. If you haven't entered yet please be sure to visit http://houstonsahm.com/contest.html to submit your entry to win a Phillips Sonicare UV Sanitizer.

A friend of mine recently shared with me a typical day in her life with the 10 things that seem to happen most often in her life. I thought I would share them with you and start your week off with a laugh.

A Typical Day in the Life of a Mom
By Kalar in Findlay Ohio
For moms with kids under the age of six, getting everyone up and out of the house by 7:30AM, or heaven forbid, earlier, can be tough, but it often provides a few laughs as well.These are a few of my favorite moments, repeated often through the week, that make getting ready for work a laughable affair.
10. My daughter declaring, despite snowy conditions, that it is plenty warm enough for short sleeves, so that's what she's wearing.
9. No toilet paper in the downstairs bathroom, a fact I never realize until it's "too late".
8. Patterned black knee highs everywhere, and not a matched pair in the bunch.
7. A missed note from the teacher that my daughter is out of her "special" snacks as of today. Today meaning yesterday, of course.
6. Stepping barefoot onto tile floor during January in Ohio.
5. Not being able to remember anything about what I wore yesterday. How many times in one week is it acceptable to wear black slacks and a light blue sweater?
4. Where's the hairbrush? I just had it - where's the hairbrush?!
3. Morning workouts - surely six trips upstairs in 20 minutes because I keep forgetting things counts, right?
2. My son, taking his sit-down morning tinkle, while loudly declaring that he DOES NOT HAVE TO GO POTTY!
1. 11:00AM at work, and I've finally managed a bathroom break, only to find that, during the dark hours of the morning, when I left my bedroom light off while dressing because two children had again magically appeared in my bed, I put my underwear on inside out. Tomorrow, we'll do
it all again.
For more articles by Kalar, please feel free to visit her page at Associated Content, http://www.associatedcontent.com/user/100385/kalar.html

Have you ever had a day like that? I know I have, and my personal best is putting my shirt on inside out or backwards. Quite often my teenage daughter whispers to me in horror -- "Mommm, it's on inside out!"

It's good that we can laugh at days like this. If not we might go crazy. To help you avoid these mornings be sure to read our Get Your Kids Out the Door On Time tips and hints.
Have a great Monday, hopefully these thoughts will help you as you start your week.

National Dental Month Information & Contest

2008-02-15T10:34:00.003-06:00

In honor of National Dental Month, and all the dental health goodies all the Houstonsahm.com’s received from the very generous and helpful staff at Dr. Poe’s office in Katy, Houstonsahm.com is holding a National Dental Health Month Contest.

Parent’s here is your chance to share your dental knowledge. You can write in about any of the following topics:

Teething and what worked with your child to make it less painful?
Learning to brush teeth: what did you have to do to get your children to brush their teeth?
First dental trip: how did you handle it? Tell us your child’s story

You may also submit any other cute, amusing stories, comments your child has made about their teeth. For example the first time my daughter really brushed her teeth by herself she looked in the mirror and said, Mommy, teeth beauty now!" So proud of herself and her accomplishment. Tell us how you handle your dental dilema's and daily care to win!

Mom’s are the best people to learn from, especially mom’s who have been there done that and teaching our children healthy brushing and dental habits are just one of the ways we can share information and knowledge to make it all work just a little easier.

On Feb. 29th we will hold a random drawing of all the tips, hints and story submissions, First Prize Winner will receive a Sonicare UV Sanitizer (retail price $59.99) to help you and your family receive the best possible cleaning experience. Five other lucky winners will receive coupons for $5.00 for off their purchase of the Sonicare UV Sanitizer.

To enter visit http://houstonsahm.com/contest.html

Why sanitize your toothbrush? For good dental and overall health. The UV Sanitizer eliminates 99% of viruses and bacteria that are in your toothbrush. By sanitizing you can cut down on the spread of those nasty little germs like colds that during these winter months visit all our families.

For help teaching your children about brushing, try these coloring sheets and Healthy Smile Certificate available from the American Dental Association.
How to Brush PDF file/72k
How to Floss PDF file/72k
Visit the Dentist PDF file/109k
The Parts of a Tooth PDF file/199k
Secret Word Jumble PDF file/104k
Count and Color PDF file/60k
Word Search PDF file/91k
Fill in the Blanks PDF file/100k
Smile Calendar PDF file/65k
Food Pyramid PDF file/102k
Sudoku Puzzle PDF file/124k
Complete the Story PDF file/83k
Attack Plaque Coloring Sheet PDF file/397k
Healthy Smile Certificate PDF file/106k
I look forward to your entries.

Contest Rules:
Submit one hint, tip, story length is not important.
Include your name and email address, so that we may confirm your mailing address if you are one of the lucky winners. Prizes will be mailed the first week in March.
Some hints, tips and stories may be shared online at houstonsahm.com, but all personal information will remain confidential.

Romance is in the Air for Houston SAHM's Part 4

2008-02-14T13:05:00.000-06:00

Romantic Wining and Dining in Houston Texas on Valentines Day

Mark’s American Cuisine
No list would be complete without Mark’s American Cuisine, voted No. 1 by locals and listed as No. 1 in Zagat’s.
Location: 1658 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77066
Hours:
Lunch: 11-2/Dinner: M-TH 6-11, Fri. Sat. 5-12 and Sunday 5-10 p.m.
Reservations are a must but you can make them online by visiting Mark’s American Cuisine Attire: Business casual, no shorts or ball caps are permitted
Mark’s takes the best of American cuisine and mixes it with the melting pot that is truly American. Appetizers range from Costa Rican salad to Quail or Smoked Salmon; Dinner entrees may be an all American Sirloin Steak or Grilled Ahi Tuna Medallions with black pearl risotto and sake, ginger sauce. Mark’s offers all American deserts from Strawberry shortcake to Banana Cream Pie (with Coconut) but also continues the melting pot experience by including Caramel Crème Brulee or Sorbet Gateau which is a seasonal sorbet layered with seasonal fruits.
Menu items vary as Mark’s only uses fresh in season ingredients.

The Tasting Room

Three locations:
The Tasting Room - Uptown Park 1101-18 Uptown Park Blvd.Houston, TX 77056

The Tasting Room - Lounge 114 GrayHouston, TX 77002

The Tasting Room - River Oaks 2409 W. Alabama @ KirbyHouston, TX 77098
Hours: They are closed on Sundays, M-F 4-midnight, but River Oaks is open on Friday Noon to midnight.

With this unique tasting room, retail shop, wine café couples or friends can sit in a quiet corner, have a bottle of their choosing opened and relax and enjoy each other and the people around them. Or, the two of you may visit the store and purchase your favorites, old or new, and take them home or to a private party. Gift baskets are available and a knowledgeable staff. Love wine, but worried about the price? Take you date there on a Saturday for the public tasting for $5.00. The tasting depends on so many things; what are currently popular, the season, and you. The best part is if you purchase a bottle they return your $5.00. Love wine and want to share it with all your friends and a special someone on Valentine’s Day? Host a tasting party by contacting the Tasting Room and let them handle all the arrangements. You just tell people when to show up and hopefully clean your house before they get there.

The Wine Spot Location: 937 Mason Rd., Katy TX
A wine café, that also serves appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and desert as well as beer and soda for those who don’t enjoy wine. This cafe has a casual atmosphere with bar service, private rooms and individual tables. The food offerings vary according to the chef’s whims. Wine prices vary from $6.50-$17.50.

The Melting Pot Location: 6100 Westheimer, Suite 146
Houston, TX 77057 (Near the shopping in the Galleria)
Hours:
Full Four Course Fondue Dinner Hours
Monday - Thursday: 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Friday: 4:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Saturday: 3:30pm - 11:00pm
Sunday: 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Cheese & Chocolate Fondue Menu
Monday - Thursday 10pm -10:30pm
Friday - Saturday 11pm -11:30pm
Sunday - Thursday 9:30pm -10:00

Exactly as it sounds, this is a melting pot of variety including meats, vegetables, cheeses, and chocolates, all served with various hot “fondue’s” for dipping and cooking in. If you go for the full four course menu plan on staying there a long time. Your courses are served at your table, where you dip your meats or vegetables into the steaming hot sauces to cook them yourself. A cheese and chocolate menu is plenty for dates and Valentines Day. Reservations are recommended and can easily be made online. To make your evening even more special you can request balloon or floral arrangements at your table.

Kubo’s

Location:
2414 University Blvd. 200
Houston TX, 77005
Hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30 - 22:00
FRI: 11:30 - 0:00
Sat: 12:00 - 22:30
Sun: 12:00 - 21:00

One of Houston’s top ten restaurants and conveniently located in Rice Village. This authentic Japanese sushi dining establishment names themselves “cuisine artisans,” which they are. Every menu item is delicately prepared for maximum artistry and appeal. Nigiri, maki, and sashimi are available as well as more unusual options. For those who prefer their food fully cooked you may order cooked dishes and rice bowls and the best sake options are also available. The average cost for a main course meal is $20.00, so if you are on a budget, don’t sacrifice, go for the Happy Hour from the sushi items range in price from $3.00-$5.00 and a large hot sake can be had for $4.50.

Each of these establishments in one of the best in its class as well as one of the best overall that Houston has to offer. Enjoy your romantic Valentine at one of the best places in Houston.

What restaurants are your favorites for romantic wining and dining? Why? Where are they located? And what are great events to celebrate there -- even if just a night out.

Romance is in the Air for Houston SAHM's Part 3

2008-02-04T10:01:00.000-06:00

Top Five Romantic Places to Celebrate Love in Houston Texas on Valentines Day
Sunsets, Starlight, Holding Hands, Fountains and Walk in the Park

Yes, we do everything bigger in Texas and Houston is proof. With a little planning you can too when you are making your Valentine’s Day plans for you and the special someone. Remember in big cities, big plans can mean big bucks, big crowds and big traffic. With these five ideas you can plan ahead and possibly avoid some of the bigness that is Houston and Valentine’s Day. Make it special with these thoughtful, romantic spots.

Herman Park
The Mary Gibbs and Jesse Jones Reflection Pool located in Herman Park is a wonderful place to take a walk in the park holding hands and reflecting on your past, present and future with the one you love. History is celebrated at this park with a statue of Sam Houston and the lovely scenery of trees, park benches to sit and talk on. There are gazebo’s and picnic tables, so that you can even pack a picnic lunch or dinner to enjoy. Herman Park is one of the most visited parks in Houston with 445 acres that include the Houston Zoo, Houston Garden Center, and the Museum of Natural Science.

Houston Zoo, ok, zoo? Maybe not you are thinking. But I think the zoo is very romantic and if you have a family and are worried about childcare and costs the zoo can’t be beat. You and your spouse can walk through the tree lined walkways, while the whole family enjoys the antics of the wild animals. The giraffe and monkey section are among my favorites as well as the lions and tigers. You will enjoy the center section where you may either purchase your meal or pack a cooler and tuck it into the stroller for the children. The picnic area is clean and the other facilities are well situated. Picnic in the park area with the children and then take them over to the petting zoo and children’s play area. Take a ride on the train or carousel and for about $5.00 a person or use your zoo membership you have not only an entertaining day, but you can show the whole family how much you love each other.

Sunset in the park with the Mecom Fountains which are glorious and a walk in the park would not be complete without them. If you time it just right you can view the fountains at sunset and this would be the perfect setting for giving your special someone their Valentine gift. Jewelry anyone?

Starlight Star Bright, first star I see in Houston. Do you want all the romance of a starlit? Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science. This is one of the most visited science museums in the country and it offers exhibits on everything from ancient cultures, Native American’s, a 70 foot dinosaur and many other natural science wonders. For this date, take time to walk through the beautiful three storey glass enclosure of the Cockrell Butterfly Center where in this interactive exhibit you can observe thousands of live butterflies, tropical plants and flowers. Next visit the Wortham IMAX Theatre or the Burke Baker Planetarium where you can count the stars with your special someone as you experience the beauty of the universe, stars shows and laser lights. Do you want to make the afternoon or evening even more memorable? You can “Name a Star” for your special someone. Cost for this event: $8.00 for adults, $6.00 for children for the butterfly exhibit, and $6.00 for adults/$5.00 for children for the Planetarium. Name a Star cost anywhere from $19.95-97.00. Your name a star kit comes with a map and other information about your special star that you can give your special someone. My favorite is “Name a Star" which began in 1978 and is very reasonably priced.

What are your favorite romantic places to go in Houston with your spouse, with or without the children and why? Give us your thoughts, so we can try something new this Valentines Day.

Want to go bigger? Have childcare arranged already? If so, look for the next installment of top places to go in Houston on Valentine’s Day for romantic places to dine.

Romance is in the Air for Houston SAHM's Part 2

2008-01-27T12:57:00.000-06:00

Here are some everyday tips for keeping romance alive and well – it really is the everyday thoughtful things you do for your partner that makes a difference and sets the tone for romance on the big occasions:

Love Notes – not creative? Use Romance Quote.com to find silly, sassy, sexy, funny, quotes for any occasions, or time in your relationship.

Walk in the park, visit a reservoir or other natural trail – feed the ducks, hold hands, and my favorite make up stores about other people as you pass by them.

Play games together – one of our favorites involves a bubble bath with bubble ball instructions inside of it – use your imagination to find out the instructions on this game! Board and card games work too.

Love on your Driveway-sure it sounds kinky but actually the whole family can get involved. Everyone takes sidewalk chalk and writes a love note, draws a heart or other love signs on the driveway so that mom or dad can see it when the get home. Great surprise and mom or dad will be thrilled that the thoughtfulness included the children.

Create a CD- we all know this but how often do we do it? My husband loves a variety of music all types and across the ages. How else could I give him a CD that will provide him with all the music he loves, show him I noticed his likes and created a one of a kind unique gift – for pennies.

Volunteer – if the holidays are approaching work in a soup kitchen to cook, clean up or prepare a meal. Clean out the house together and put all those coats and clothes to good use by dropping them off together and stop for a Starbuck’s on the way home.

Create a book- one of my husband’s favorite gifts was a wedding gift I had made for him. He is a beer critic, so I found an electronic copy of all his reviews and informational articles on beer. I formatted them, organized and created a Bryan’s Brews Book. Binding costs very little and printing was done on my professional computer. Who knows maybe someday it will be a coffee table book.

Love sports but can’t afford a NFL or College Football Game? - Go to a local high school sporting event. You will spend little money and enjoy the crisp night air and experience the excitement of high school dating all over again.

Take on a responsibility for a day that normally your significant other would be responsible for. For example, do the dishes for her; take out the trash for him. My personal favorite is when he “tucks” the girls in with me at night.

Touch- seems silly to remind you doesn’t it? Don’t forget to kiss goodbye in the morning, hold hands while walking, touch while passing, giggle and be silly sometimes.

Here are the most important tips for you to keep in mind. First, you don’t have to buy anything for a day or event to be special. Secondly, guess what? While we all like perfume, flowers, candy and jewelry – they are overdone and overrated. After four children, give me an hour in the bathtub with candles and a glass of wine any day over a dozen roses. Thirdly, be attentive – even if you are broke that does not excuse you from a hug, kiss, stroke or even an email greeting card. One year I was incredibly broke, but I sent a virtual box of chocolates, some virtual balloons and an online greeting card. He also received a “coupon book” with personal and not so personal redemptions, for a later time when I did have some disposable income. Many online sites allow you to send them or print them for free. Or join a site for about $13.00 a year and you can send and print as many as you want – not to mention the savings you will have on all those other important dates and family members you need to remember. Set the time aside to show your special someone that you care, that they are important to you and that you think about them with love and affection. No money is involved there, and the rest will all fall into place.

What are your favorite romantic gestures to or from your significant other? Share your favorites in the comments section and give us all some new or tried and true ideas for the Valentine holiday or everyday to keep romance "alive and well in Houstonsahm's."

What Does New Year's and Valentine's Day Have in Common

2008-01-20T18:01:00.000-06:00

Hearts and health! Many people make New Year's resolutions to lose weight, get healthy, lower their cholesterol or even to be more romantic or loving to their spouse. In honor of those New Year's resolutions and the romantic holiday of Valentine's Day which is approaching Lisa's Guide is offering to the first 10 people who send in their favorite heart healthy story, event or romantic idea $1.00 off Promise Activ Power Shots available in strawberry, peach and rasberry flavors. These power shots come in a 4 pack package and are designed to help fight cholesterol using natural sterols from plants.

To learn more about the health benefits of this product visit promisehealthyheart.com

So, be healthy in your marriage and your life and share your "heart" stories, tips, or hints. Please respond to:
gps4moms@gmail.com and include your address to receive your free coupon.

Thanks all for sharing your healthy tips.

Bear Creek Pioneers Park for After Einstein Bagels or for V Day

2008-01-14T13:56:00.000-06:00

Just in . . . as Karen has suggested a trip to the park right after your sweet treats at
Einstein Brothers Bagels
600 W Sam Houston Parkway N,
Ste 700(corner of Kimberly and Beltway 8)
Houston, TX 77024

How about getting together with another mom or two and visit Bear Creek Park? Don't know if you will like it? Take two minutes to visit this site, where you sahm guide created a slideshow to highlight all the fun and activities available to you there.

Bear Creek Park

Who knows, maybe you can take the husband and kids there for your valentine picnic in the park? Pack a cooler, take a walk on the trails, enjoy the day or the sunset, picnic tables, soccer fields, aviary, wildlife refuge and play areas along with wide walking trails great for even a double stroller! But don't forget the bread -- feed the ducks but avoid the geese! Don't forget your camera as this is the perfect place to take some candid photos of both your husband and family.

You can also visit the peaceful area dedicated to those Houston natives who have served and lost their lives in War from WWII to the Gulf War.

Romance is in the Air for Houston SAHM's

2008-01-10T12:20:00.000-06:00

With the swiftness and accuracy of Cupid’s arrow, Valentine’s Day approaches with our Christmas decorations barely put away. For married couples, Valentine’s Day presents complications to an already busy schedule and sometimes an already tight budget as we recover in many ways from the holidays. There is also the complication of how do you have romance and children?

The next few articles will be devoted to just that! Mom’s will receive hints on where to go and what to do for Valentine’s Day in Houston; how to save money and your romance; and receive romantic tips for the holidays that can show your significant other how much you love and appreciate them and in many cases show that love to your children.

Children know when moms and dad are happy. And happy moms and dads include romance as part of their everyday life. Many of these tips will be things you can do for your partner everyday – not just on Valentines.

Let’s start with the most obvious of romantic advice. It’s not what you spend but the thought that counts. If you significant other should say, “I wish we could try that new Mediterranean restaurant for Valentines Day,” or even something like “What do I want for Valentines Day? Oh nothing, we have the kids, we have to work and it’s just a made up holiday by Hallmark.” Translation: Your partner really would like to go out for dinner with you, some place special or unique to celebrate Valentines Day, but is unsure of the household budget, how to plan it, if there is a babysitter available etc.

But with some planning and a little help (especially from houstonsahm.com partner Sitter City) you can plan a special evening or even series of events that will be appreciated and remembered long after the day passes.

Husbands (wives send this article to your husband’s in box – he can benefit from it too. . .) you too can do something romantic for your wife. For example, your significant other says something like, “Oh for our anniversary I would love to go to a spa,” (wishful sigh). Translation, I would love to be pampered for a day or even just a few hours and have my body relaxed and massaged and made into something beautiful to share with you. This does not mean that you have to rush out to the most expensive place in your city and schedule a day long pampering session for your significant other and maxing out your credit card. With some planning, a little help from a babysitter, neighbor or friend who could watch your children and a very small budget you can create the pampering event that your significant other may want. And the hard work that you personally put into creating something special for them will not only be appreciated but remembered long after the day has passed.

Here are some ideas that you can use to recreate romance or bring new spark to an old relationship without your significant other moaning and groaning – in agony – over balance the checkbook or paying the credit card bill. Let’s save the moaning and groaning for happier things!

1. Don’t wait for Valentine’s Day to have your celebration. Schedule your romantic time together or with the family before or after the holiday. This way you can have a baby sitter – and still use some of those wonderful discounts which will be listed below.
2. Travel the world from the comfort of your home. Everyone thinks and dreams about a romantic vacation. You can create one in your home and all you need are for the kids to go to bed early. Pick a place of theme and then let your creativity flow. For example, if you enjoy camping; light the fireplace, pull out candles or battery operated lamps and toast smores while sitting on a blanket in front of the fire place. Some hot chocolate and snuggling on a cool evening (maybe even leave the window open a smidge to create a cold breeze) can give you both a change to unwind and remember those times you can get away. Create a themed night for a Hawaii adventure. Women go ahead get a grass skirt and some Hawaiian music and do your own hula – he won’t care if it’s good or not but the gentle swaying hips, hand motions and bikini with legs showing through the skirt and some homemade drinks should do the trick. The same can be said for Italy, France (get some jams, bread, cheese, fruit and wine); Spain (make a pitcher of sangria at home and create your own tapas with very little effort) or any other travel adventure you may have in mind.
3. Get an Entertainment book (did we mention the special right now of a $25.00 book available through Houstonsahm.com for $5.00! Order now and get it in time for the holiday) you would not believe the savings that your $5.00 investment can make. For example, for an “evening in Cuba,” my husband and I went to a Candela Cuban restaurant in Katy and indulged in Sangria, each had a traditional Cuban dish, listened to a Cuban band and had free dance lessons. Total cost including tip – $28.00. With the Entertainment book you get buy one meal get one free meals and activities or discounts on such. Note though that many of these specials in the Entertainment book are not available on Valentine’s Day.
4. Find the happy hour specials on drinks and restaurants, possibly even those that are hosting music and/or dance lessons one evening. Love to eat out? Let your fingers do the walking if you aren’t interested in the Entertainment book. Create a list of happy hours or special nights/discounts at area restaurants. Ask your friends to contribute. Make everyone happy by posting it on your personal website for future reference.
5. Take a walk holding hands. You can even do this with the children. Even during the winter in Houston the early evenings are not too cold to take a walk in your favorite park. Look for one of our next articles with 5 excellent romantic walks in the park for you and your partner or the whole family. Just getting out of the house and holding hands while watching the kids walk with us sets the tone for a relaxing evening.
6. Movie Night—watch DVD’s at home, pop some popcorn and snuggle on the couch. If you still want the surround sound experience go to a discount cinema, carry a big bag (purse) with candy treats and a can of pop. Tacky? Maybe. Affordable? Absolutely!
7. Plays/Musicals/Ballet/Art/Sports: Try local colleges, community performing arts centers, and high schools. You are supporting local artists and athletes as well as saving yourself a bundle of money. Sometimes you are also amazed at the talent you will view. Many times the cost of an event at a college or other venue is free or minimal and can provide you with hours of entertainment.

Be sure to contribute your thoughts on “hot” Valentine’s Dates with your spouse, partner or significant other. Next in this series of articles will be everyday tips for keeping romance alive in your relationship, followed by 5 romantic places to go in Houston and Top 5 Places to Wine and Dine in Houston this Valentines Day.

Are You Interested in Home Schooling? Do You Need Help with Your Home School program?

2007-12-26T15:15:00.000-06:00

What is available: A Home Schooling Resource Information Meeting
When: Jan. 5, 2008 is the first meeting for those interested in home schooling
Where: Katy Branch Library, Franz Rd. Katy, TX
To register for this informational program contact the Katy Library directly.

A meeting of parent's interested in home schooling is being hosted at the Katy Library on Franz Rd. Katy, Texas in order for Classical Conversations to branch its base of activity in Texas to the Houston area. If you are interested in home schooling, are already home schooling but would like more information, or plan to home school in the future, this meeting may be important to you.

This is the first of what is hoped to be many more meetings across the region, however no meetings are scheduled at this time. You should contact Classical Conversations directly to request an informational meeting in your area.

Information on Classical Conversations:
Classical Conversations is branching out to the Houston, Texas area. Classical Conversations is a Christian, home schooling organization which provides support, resources, services and information to home schooling parents within approximately 18 states and is currently broadening its Texas network to include Houston, TX and surrounding areas. The Texas branch is based in Austin, Texas this resource center began in 1997 in North Carolina in founder Leigh Bortins living room. Home schooling parents using this resource are provided with the resources necessary to assist them academically as well as to bring together groups of families, and provide with social and emotional support.

The academic program is based on classical education theory and divided into three areas of education. Their mission statement is, “To know God and make him known.” According to their own statement, “Classical Conversations exists to empower parents in the academic teaching of their children through Parent Practicum’s; as well as establish and support Classical Christian Communities that enable parents everywhere to equip their children with (1) a Biblically-based world view and (2) the classical “tools of learning”, in order to impact the world for God’s glory.

For more information on meetings in the area, the application and tuition process and requirements, and classical education theory contact Classical Conversations.

Is Your New Year's Resolution to Meet more Moms, Save Money and Do something Different?

2007-12-19T11:10:00.001-06:00

If so that is one of the many reasons why you visit the Houstonsahm.com website and are being even more "saving savvy" by purchasing your Houstonsahm.com membership.

One of the Houstonsahm.com advertisers and partners listed on the home page is Moxie Moms, a different kind of mother's group and here's why.

Moxie, as defined in the dictionary is a noun meaning; vigor, verve, pep; courage and aggressiveness, nerve, skill and know how. Moxie Moms is a network of mothers or mothers to be which began in Boulder, Colorado by Susan Lavelle. Susan, after being laid off found herself expecting she decided to create an opportunity for moms that was unique and provide them with what she herself thought was missing from her busy life. She and her husband/business partner established Moxie Moms, LLC, which is actually a networking system designed to provide mothers with contact with other mothers and with local retailers. Over the past four years this group has grown to include 14 states and approximately 15 cities in each of these states – except Colorado, which seems to have one in every city.

There are four defining segments to the Moxie Mom premise; fitness, events, partner-relationships and charity. Although the majority of the mothers involved in Moxie Moms are stay at home mothers, this group also provides a networking system for mothers who have their own business, career mothers and mother’s who work from home. An events calendar for each city’s group is available for members to check for information on activities and events. These events include stroller fitness, yoga, and mental health information, play dates, even foreign language classes for the little ones. The group is not a mother’s group in the traditional sense of the word, nor is a play group with activities designed specifically around the children of members. It is quite unique in its approach to motherhood.

Another component of the Moxie Mom network is participating partners. These partners are local retailers, goods and services providers that pay nothing to be involved, however, they provide group members with discounts of their choosing (usually between 15-20%) on goods and services. In exchange, the partners are provided with web page advertising on the moxie mom site. Many of the partners also provide several opportunities a year for moxie moms to participate in a free “sample” of their goods or services, such as a free gymnastics class or music class, to the group at large. You can have fun with other mom’s, try something new, and determine if it is an activity that your child would like to participate in on a regular basis. Each area manager determines what her group is looking for in activities and members may participate in the planning too. Activities and resources vary according to the needs of that particular area and you will never be bored no matter where you encounter your moxie mom.

The website is key when participating in the Moxie Mom network. The calendar of events provides location information, hosting information, costs, and recommended ages. It provides you with opportunities to RSVP so that appropriate arrangements may be made. Participating partners can view the website and determine where and when they would also like to make their contributions. Activities in the Houston area include swimming, gymnastics, musical events, theatre, park play dates, zoo, and a myriad of other children geared activities. Holiday parties are planned for each major holiday and at each event everyone leaves with a small token to remember the activities by. Mother/Parent activities include mother’s night out, dad’s night out, fitness and exercise as well as the chance to interact with other parents.

In addition to events and discounts, the Moxie Moms group also provides resources to families such as information about libraries and area health professionals. Moxie Moms also participate in charitable events. The Houston area chapter hosts information on and charitable events for the Feel Your Boobies Foundation (breast cancer prevention and knowledge); Candlelighters a non profit group that provides support and information for families or children with cancer in the greater Houston area; The Krause Children’s Center which provides support to emotionally disturbed boys and girls ages 12-17 as well as the Pregnancy Help Center which provides support emotionally, physically, and spiritually to anyone who has experienced an unplanned pregnancy.

This group is not simply another mother’s group or playdate group, but encourages interaction between parents and children, creativity on the part of the participating mothers, a desire to live life to the fullest and count our blessings every day. It is not affiliated with any type of religious entity or with any particular ethnic group. Children and parents meet on an equal basis with other participating parents regardless of ethnicity, education or economic level. Many of the events are free and/or sponsored by our membership fees or by participating partners in retail. You don’t have to be a member to participate in the events, but you do to get the discounts at goods and services providers.

The membership fee varies. A standard membership is $57.50. A buddy deal saves you 25%, and you and a friend can join for $43.00 a year. Renewal memberships are available for $40.00 up until one week before your membership expires. They also have membership specials throughout the year, for Thanksgiving our area manger offered new members the chance to join for $10.00 – where was the offer when I joined? There also appears to be back to school membership deals as well as holiday deals.

I researched many area mothers’ groups before deciding on one in particular, especially when it meant a membership fee. However, this group provides more than just entertainment value but unique and interesting opportunities to learn and engage in for both myself and my children. If you have a chapter in your city, try it out. If you don’t and the idea appeals to you – start one yourself. They give back to the community in ways that are admirable and each participant does have their own sense of “style” whether in raising their children, planning events, or participating with retails partners. The best thing about this network is that creativity, uniqueness and ingenuity are celebrated and encouraged by all the members and the mom’s who participate truly are full of “moxie.”

Still Need NYEve Ideas?

2007-12-11T18:08:00.000-06:00

Still looking for something to do with the family for New Year's Eve? Rainforest Cafe is ringing in the new year in jungle and family style.

Where: Rainforest Cafe, Katy Mills Mall
When: Dec. 31 2007, 6-8 PM
What's available? Knee high buffet for kids 12 and under; free goodies for the kids; sparkling cider toast; a Rainforest Cafe style countdown, and other family friendly entertainment (which I assume is just like family night on Wed. with a clown and balloon artist).

Reservations are required, so contact Rainforest Cafe today!

Orange Juice on My Cornflakes

2007-12-10T13:32:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine wrote this poem, I had to share it with all my SAHMom's because it is so perfect, especially for this time of year. Here's a little humor to lessen the stress of our busy lives.

Hectic mornings warming milk
Grumpiness I try to bilk
Binkies, blankets, sippy cup
Burp cloth covered with spit up

Poopy diaper, dirty bib
Babbles coming from the crib
Get them dressed from head to toe
Load the car and off we go

Cooking meals and serving dinner
Hit or miss which one's a winner
Flinging food and apple juice
On my floor make a slippery sluice

Playtime, snuggles, bubble baths
Man and wife just crossing paths
Stories, bedtime, brushing teeth
Eight p.m. sure brings relief

Midnight diaper changes galore
Please end soon, I do implore
Wake up early, start again
Where do I even begin

Can't drink coffee because caffeine
Will wire baby and ruin routine
Each day starts off so bleary eyed
Was it just last night I sat and cried?

So tired that I can't think straight
I don't realize until too late
The first of today's many mistakes
I just poured orange juice on my corn flakes
By, Tina Lehman

Ideas for Couples on New Year's Eve in Houston

2007-12-07T13:44:00.000-06:00

Couples Only:
New Years Eve at The Lancaster
Location: The Lancaster Hotel
The downtown Lancaster Hotel is hosting a fabulous four course dinner with wine at the Bistro Lancaster. You are greeted in your room with sparkling wine and party favors on arrival. The next morning your breakfast buffet includes complimentary Bloody Marys and Mimosas on the breakfast buffet. The cost for this evening is $219.00/night (for two people for dinner, accommodations, and breakfast). Hotel tax is included. Can’t make it New Years Eve? Then beat the rush and ring in the New Year with your favorite person a day or two early as this package is available Dec 29-Jan. 2.

Dine, Drink and Dance on New Years Eve at the Alden
Location: Alden Hotel, Downtown Houston
Deluxe room accommodations, five course dinner for two at the awarding winning restraint *17, private veranda party access highlight this deluxe New Year’s Eve celebration as well as a champagne toast and midnight breakfast. Cost: $525/per couple.

New Years Eve at the Crowne Plaza Houston Downtown
Location Crowne Plaza Downtown
Stay late at this holiday event as your accommodations allows you to sleep late after an evening of festivities that include champagne, a full American breakfast buffet for two, complimentary valet parking and late checkout. If you reserve the Romantic Escape Package prices vary from $159-$199.00/night.

A Grand New Year’s Eve Party at the Houstonian
Convenient to the famous Galleria area with boutique shops and the fourth largest retail complex in the US, the Houstonian is limiting it event to the first 400 reservations. This holiday celebration includes dancing to the Road Crew and the David Caceres Band. A midnight breakfast and toast is included in this package, as well as a children’s lock in. All the “bases” are covered. For pricing, contact the hotel directly.

New Year’s Eve, and All that Jazz
Location: The Tasting Room, Uptown
Jazz music, dancing and champagne are on the schedule for this holiday party.

New Year’s Eve Dinner
Location: Trevisio,
Time: 6:00-10:00 p.m.
Enjoy a long and leisurely deluxe four course dinner at this award winning restaurant. Awards have been given by Chocolatier Magazine, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Wine Spectator Magazine, My Table Magazine, and Houston Business Journal.

Houston Lone Star Rising“As the ball drops in New York, the Lone Star will rise over Houston.”
This holiday event is a technological showcase of all that Houston has to offer in a pyrotechnic display. With its bi-lingual coverage and showcased celebration of community leaders and community building events, artists, citizens and organizations that have helped shape the image and community of the city of Houston throughout the 2007 year, it also prepares Houstonian’s for the year to come with hope and pride.

Have problems going out that night or can’t find childcare? Try any one of the restaurants highlighted here to see if they have an early dinner option only. Let your fingers do the walking, and call around to see if any of your favorite restaurants are having a special holiday dinner or if you will need reservations. You may be able to plan to go out early and still get childcare many times, as long as you are home by 8 or 9, so that your teenage/college age provider can have their own evening of celebration.

Don’t like to leave the children with a babysitter on a holiday? Then plan a party at home, and include friends and family. No matter what you plan on doing, be safe, be happy and be blessed in your New Year.

New Year's Eve in Houston, TX

2007-12-05T22:53:00.000-06:00

The holidays seem to approach faster and faster every year, and one that always creeps up on me unexpectedly is New Year's Eve. First the cooking and cleaning of Thanksgiving, then the weeks of shopping and decoration and mailing greeting cards and family and friends, guest and parties and then Christmas Day itself. With all of that a busy family has very little time to plan their New Year’s Eve activities – and worse yet – it’s too late to find a babysitter that is willing to make a lot of money that night instead of having fun on their own. With this in mind, I began my search for New Year’s Eve activities in Houston early and now have a babysitter and tenative plans for the evening. We will be home early, but going out. And after three years either pregnant or home with a newborn, and evening out on New Year's Eve sounds wonderful. The early part of the is all about family, followed by date time with my husband, and then back in plenty of time to kiss all the little ones several times before the clock strikes midnight. After all what you do New Year's Eve sets the tone for what you will do with the rest of your year.

Here are some events for the family across the Houston area:
Sharkey’s New Years Eve at the Downtown Aquarium
Location: Downtown Houston Aquarium
Time 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
This family friendly event begins early and ends in plenty of time for mom and dad to also have some time alone later on in the evening. The kids may be so tired after all the music, magic show, contests, giveaways, a kids ball drop and photos with the Aquarium hosts Sharkey and Nero that they go to bed early or at the very least on time. Entrance to the Aquarium is $9.25 for adults; $6.25 children 2-12; and free for children 2 and under. The all day pass gives unlimited rides to all the amusements at the Aquarium for $15.99 plus access to the exhibits. Prices for this event at not stated.

New Year’s Noon Celebration
Location: Children’s Museum of Houston
One of my favorite places in Houston for the whole family is the Children’s Museum. For the holiday they are hosting a 12:00 event also – Noon New Year’s Celebration. Children will design their own float, participate in a parade, and make all the noise they want with noisemakers, pretend firework sparklers, NY Eve shades and a brilliant ball countdown that the whole family can enjoy. The party includes its own music, with performances by the New Birth Blues Band of New Orleans.

Radio Disney
Location: Greenspoint Mall and San Jacinto Mall
One party just isn’t enough, so Radio Disney will be at two malls for their New Year’s Celebrations which include live local entertainment, prize giveaways, games and dancing.

Tomorrow I will post some of the hot spots for couples if you are lucky enough to have someone to take the children overnight. Do you have suggestions for New Year's Eve? Share your thoughts on what you can do and how you can do it with comments or email gps4moms@gmail.com.

Stress Management Part 3

2007-12-04T15:20:00.000-06:00

Tips and Hints for Reducing Stress in Your Life

Make a to do list – and don’t stress about getting it done. Think of it as a wish list, not a gotta have it done in the next three hours list. Whatever doesn’t get done moves to the next day.

Whenever HALT (hungry, angry, lonely or tired, a phrase coined from the family counselor) comes into play go ahead and take a break. Give the kids a DVD to watch, allow your mother in law to make the pumpkin pie even though yours taste better.

Have a support system. Find friends, neighbors and others you can talk to and share with. Don’t worry, they will return the favor. This is where resources like your Mother’s group and HOUSTONsahm.com comes in to play.

Find time to do nothing. Spend 10 minutes each day doing nothing, but something for you. If you have to, take a book to the bathroom shut the door and read. No one will know that it’s your quiet time.

Spend 15 minutes being silly with your children. Roll around on the floor, play hide and seek, laugh at the funny things that they do. Your children do the most adorable, funny, laughable things; enjoy them while you can.

Say NO. You don’t’ have to be the cub scout leader, Sunday school teacher, home room mom, booster club vice president, preschool room mom, field trips and bake sale chef. Find a balance and do only those things that provide you with the outlet you need. You will find that it reduces your stress, provides balance, gives back to the community and gives you a sense of pride.

Do only what you NEED to do, not what you think needs to be done, which in most cases is everything.

Try to spend 30 minutes doing physical exercise. Some examples are: grab the Sesame Street DVD about exercise and do it with the kids. Use a get fit tape, do the steps of your house a few times, take the children for a walk in their stroller, they don’t know it’s for you and have sex with your partner. It’s the best stress reliever going.

You may look at these tips and think, I am going to be stressed out, feel guilt, worry and self-doubt as a result of all maybe not being able to do the things I should be doing to eliminate stress from my life. Remember these are suggestions; use this list to get yourself starting at reducing the bad stress in your life and to make the good kind of stress grow. Only this way can you be successful in making yourself a little less stressful.

Stress Management Part 2

2007-12-03T14:57:00.000-06:00

What are some things that can affect your ability to handle stress?

1. In many cases your personality can affect your ability to handle stress. So called “Type A” personalities may become stressed to a higher degree because of their need to achieve a high level of perfection and productivity in both their personal and professional lives.
2. The stay at home mom vs working mom. All types of mothers have high stress levels, whether you are a stay at home mom or working. Whether you work from home or outside the home. Part time or full time. What we as mothers need to do is realize that there is a mother’s continuum, one in which stay at home moms are at one end and full time working mothers outside the home on the other end. But we have one very important thing in common – We are all MOMS. Accept wherever you happen to fall on that line and don’t judge others by where they fall. Each mother has her own place in the world, and many stay at home mothers make it possible for working mothers to work. What we need to do is support each other no matter where we are in our personal decisions, and realize the strength, knowledge and courage that we can learn from each other.
3. The time of the day can also affect your ability to handle stress. Know when your “witching hour” is. What is the witching hour? It is that hour when everything crashes in on you, for many people it is that hours between 5:30-7:30 p.m. with the demands of family, dinner, baths, homework and everyone needing something from the other.
4. Look at your expectations, then reduce them. One of my favorite movies for the holidays is National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, with Chevy Chase. His expectations were monumental. Biggest tree, most elaborate spread, gifts for one and all and the ultimate gift of a pool for his family. After everything falls apart and all the guests want to run screaming from the home, Chevy says, “Oh no, your not leaving, we are all staying right here and we are going to have a Hap Hap Happy (blank) Christmas.” Sometimes that may be how it feels, that no matter what we are going to have the holiday we imagine, instead of the holiday we can truly enjoy. Your house does not need to look like Martha Stewarts, nor do you need to make enough food to feed an army plus have treats stored in the freezer for “just in case.”
I know many of these things I am guilty of. As she was speaking of those with a “to do list and expectations, I held out my planner and flipped through the handwritten list three pages long and asked, “Do you mean like this?” Of course the whole group got a good laugh out of it, but how often do we make a list of things with our own expectations to achieve them all and then stress about why we didn’t really get everything done? Not only were my expectations unreasonable, but my idea of what needed to be done was unreasonable also.
5. Remember the long term payoffs. No matter what you are doing in your personal or professional life or the choices you are making, remember that as a mother you are doing these things as an investment in your and your child’s future. How you experience the world sets the stage for how your children will experience the world. Teach them to handle the unexpected and the everyday mundane details of life with strength.

In part three you will receive a number of tips and hints for reducing stress in your life. Give them a try, and pass them on to your friends and family. Talk about what ones work for you.

What works for you? Post your comments and suggestions. Maybe we can all learn a new trick or two.

Stress Management for Moms this Holiday and Everyday

2007-12-02T13:13:00.002-06:00

Stress is a big part of our lives, but maybe no time is it more so than during the holidays. With all the extra events and activities to attend, family and friends visiting, extra household duties, and of course extra things to buy and not extra money to spend; it all adds up to one thing – extra stress added to your everyday life.

Moxie Moms, Katy recently sponsored a lunch seminar on Stress Management with Licensed Social Worker and Family Counselor Diane Lamberson. Ms. Lamberson has a private practice counseling, consultating, public speaking here in the Katy/Houston , Texas area.

Here are some reasons why stress occurs, what you can do to prevent it and how it affects you and your life, as described and observed by a licensed social worker and family counselor.

The recipe for stress is equal parts time limits, money and relationships, thrown in a dash of worry and guilt, and sprinkle liberally with self doubt before allowing to “stew.” For special events top it off with holidays, family visits, unreasonable expectations and you have one great big meltdown, especially during the holidays.

The top three reasons for stress in our life, according to Diane Lamberson, Family Counselor and Licensed Social Worker are:

• A lack of time: many people and families experience stress day to day because: after having a family you no longer are able to do what you want when you want it. You are no longer on your own schedule, but on the family schedule and usually your needs and wants come last and the children’s and everyone else’s needs come first.
• A lack of money: Once you have children you have all those additional expenses of diapers, formula, clothing, doctors, medicine – the list goes on and on. There may be even more stress regarding money if one of the parents has quit their job in order to be a stay at home parent, thus losing a second income. Add the expenses of the holidays and money becomes a one of the most significant stresses of you life, says this counselor.
• No time or money for personal relationships Add to these events the lack of time to spend with your spouse and you have the ultimate mix of stressful situations in your life. According to Ms. Lamberson, studies have shown that the highest level of dissatisfaction during marriage occurs when there are children home during their early years. Parents have little or no time for each other because of the demands placed on them by the family or their career.

With all these demands, it is not unexpected that people would then experience worry and guilt over their actions and decisions. As parents and partners we look at our decisions and the stress we are experiencing and try to second guess ourselves wondering if we have been and are making the right decisions. As a result, we are then attacked by self doubt which increases our stress level as we think that maybe we are doing things all wrong and we need to change our methods or decisions.

The important thing to do when these attitudes are insidiously creeping into our lives is to note that hindsight is always 20/20. You can always look back and wonder if your decisions are the correct ones, with all the experience you have since that decision to back it up. But since you can’t change that decision you must learn to go forward. Concentrate on those things that you can change. Remember that there are many people who have it much worse than you do and be thankful for what you do have and the ability to make choices. It is a luxury that many people do not have.

Stress is not always a “bad” thing. Stress has its good points and its bad points. It is the bad points that we must try to reduce from our lives and not allow them to take control. With good stress you may be more productive; with bad stress you may have any one of a number of effects on your physical and emotional well being. The most obvious and well known negative effects of stress, according to Ms. Lamberson are increased anxiety and fatigue, loss of libido, frustration, illness, heart disease, high blood pressure, weakened immune system, trouble sleeping and emotion eating which can lead to weight gain and depression.

Think back, how many times have you grabbed the bag of chips or ate the last piece of pizza because you were eating emotionally? Or too tired to get up in the morning when the alarm goes off. All things happen to us naturally, but by reducing our stress we can eliminate how many times that happen to us. Stick around for Part 2 – Things that can affect your ability to handle stress.

What Living in Houston Texas Has to Offer this SAHM Part 2

2007-12-01T21:47:00.000-06:00

The museums I can visit vary from art to nature: The Menil Collection and The Rothko Chapel; The Fine Arts Museum; the Museum of Modern Art; the Natural Science Museum. Downtown is also home to the oldest house in Houston, also available is the Heritage Society House and Museum at Sam Houston Park, where historic homes across the eras of Houston's history were transported to the park and restored. Bayou Bend is a former estate near River Oaks, and hosts a museum and walking gardens.

For my sports minded days there are professional baseball, arena football, men's and women's basketball and hockey (minor league) teams, as well as golf and tennis year-round. One golf course that golf lovers should visit offers a re-creation of a famous hole from golf courses all over the world. Other sports include: Gulf Greyhound Park, the world's largest pari-mutuel dog racing complex; Houston Raceway Park with drag strip racing; The Sam Houston Race Track, which offers local horse racing; bike and jogging trails at Memorial and Hermann Parks and along Buffalo and Braeswood Bayous; the Equestrian Center for horses and Velocidrome for bicycling. If my family wants to get our feet wet we can try water skiing, surfing and wind-surfing along the coast.

Where else can I go? There is the Williams Tower water wall and observation deck, the downtown Chase Tower with an observation deck, the historic tunnel system under downtown Houston has over 4 miles of connected tunnels, with stores and restaurants, drive through the River Oaks area and look at the mansions, or visit a gloriously designed Hindu temple in Pearland. I can also visit a wildlife sanctuary at Anahuac known for bird observation and if I’m there at sunset maybe able to see the waterfowl come in to nest. For more wildlife adventures I can visit: the Texas State Zoo in Victoria were all the animals are native to Texas, Bayou Wildlife Park near Alvin has rhinos, buffalo, giraffe, that I can hand feed, the Big Thicket National Preserve is a dense forest with a wide variety of plant and animal life and the Alabama-Coushatta Indian reservation is nearby. There is Washington- on-the-Brazos, Lake Somerville, the Blue Bell Ice Cream Creamery, the Antique Rose Emporium, and a monastery that raises miniature horses.
In nearby Galveston, there are; the railroad museum, I can bicycle or skates and cruise along the 10 mile seawall; visit one of the county beaches; drive out to a deserted beach, visit Bishop's Palace, Moody Mansion or Moody Gardens. For a free daytrip my family and I can take the ferry to and from Bolivar bringing crackers to feed the seagulls and possibly see some dolphins.

My opportunities are only as limited as I choose it to be. I want to discover that which is unique to Texas, especially the Houston area and that which makes it so special. Much of that I have already discovered as that which is unique about Texas is not only what is available to do and see, but the people of Texas themselves.

Texas, because of it vast size alone allows travelers to be on a beach one weekend, a winery and bed and breakfast another and a sporting event the following. To this unseasoned Texan, but one who is wholly embracing this new world of opportunities, I can not wait to experience all the remarkable and extraordinary things that Texas has to offer. These opportunities are as wide and varied as the big, blue Texas sky that I fully understand the beauty of, now that I am able to view it everyday. I am sure that I will never grow tired of all the discoveries that Houston, Texas has to offer, especially those that I can do with my family; and a few that are just for me.

If you have some places you would like to tell me about, please comment or email me at: gps4moms@gmail.com. I can't wait to learn more about Houston and remind myself and others that we have wonderful opportunities here to do great things with our family, by ourself and with other moms just like us.

Check back tomorrow, I interviewed a family counselor and LSW about how to handle stress during the holidays and will be sharing her tips and hints on how moms can handle stress during the holiday and every day.

What Living in Houston Texas Has to Offer this SAHM Part 1

2007-11-28T15:53:00.000-06:00

My first post is to introduce myself -- and give you an idea of why and how I got to Houston, Texas. I truly hope to enjoy everything that this city and it's people (especially it's moms) has to offer in the way of culture, diversity, nature and education, not to mention just plain fun. I hope you enjoy.

Part 1 A SAHM Discovers Houston: Parks and History
Several months before relocating to Houston, Texas, my husband and I spent a great deal of time, thought and effort researching the sort of place that we wanted to move to. We even took an online test which, based on your answers, provided you with a list of cities and states where you would probably be happy living. When we decided to concentrate our efforts on the Houston, Texas we truly did not realize what we were getting into.

We wanted a place with a pleasant climate, variety of culture, activities, adventures, and travel. We wanted to be able to take the children on day trips that would provide them with educational, entertaining and natural events and places, but all within the short course of a day or weekend.

Within just days of arriving in the Houston area, my mind was spinning with the wealth of opportunities available both in this area and across the state. Historically there is the San Jacinto Monument, Museum and Battleground, a tribute to General Sam Houston and the Texas Army. I can explore the Battleship Texas which survived two world wars, or visit the Port of Houston which is the third largest port in the United States. Much of the history of this state includes Spanish, French, and English cultures as well as Native American.

Parks abound, in the Houston area, or just a short drive away. There are two arboretums, Houston and Mercer and several parks within the city such as; Memorial Park, Hermann Park, Buffalo Bayou Park and Sam Houston Park. Further out of town are Armand Bayou Nature and Brazos Bend State Park. There are a variety of places to rent a canoe, horse or sailboat. Cruises are available on Clear Lake, Buffalo Bayou and Galveston Bay Maybe best known are the parks and beaches available in nearby Galveston, but the Houston area also has numerous parks which offer forest, fauna, wildlife and water. Whatever in nature I wish to enjoy, whether it be the forest or ocean it is available to me here.

Look for the next post--Part 2 Museums, Sports and More for this new Houston SAHM